7-21 AroundWoodstock webfinal.pdf by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Contents July 2021

Contributors

Hornes Real Estate Group

16 Stacy Brown

43 Charlice Byrd 20 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 41 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

On the Cover

Dianna Hornes, a Realtor whose mission is to help veterans and other community servants find the home of their dreams.

45 Rev. Joseph Cousin 47 Julie Felber 38 Barbara Jacoby

Pages 28 & 29

Cover photo by Maniac Agency.

30 Harry Johnston

24 Asher Kelsey

Concerts are Back!

Photographer Brittany Weir attended the first concert of the season, capturing the fun and joy on the faces in the crowd.

What’s in a Name?

Woodstock Arts is the new name of the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, a re-creation sparked by the opening of the Reeves House.

46 Rob Macmillan 50 John Rodgers 42 Susan Schulz 14 Justin Spainhour-Roth 22 Teddy the Spaz Man

In Every Issue 4 Around Woodstock 8 Local News

32 Noteworthy

40 Celebrations

44 Everyday Angels 46 Rob’s Rescues

48 Recent Home Sales 49 School News

50 Library Events

52 Community Calendar

Grillin’ and Chillin’

Recipes from local grillmasters will impress your friends and family, and take the pressure off summer cookouts.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

54 Directory of Advertisers

Home

is where you

Belong

Home is a sense of certainty you’re in the right space and the right place. It’s a sense that you are part of a larger community, where friendships and connections are important. It’s a sense that you belong. At St. George Village, we understand how important it is to feel that sense of belonging. Our welcoming and inclusive environment offers a variety of activities, events and other opportunities for engagement that support existing connections and foster new ones, creating a strong sense of community and purpose. Every facet of St. George Village has been designed to encourage and promote the health, vitality and well being of all who live and work here, qualities that are integral to our mission, “Be Active, Be Engaged, Be at Home.” Here, you’ll experience that right space, right place feeling that means you truly belong. Discover why so many people have chosen St. George Village as their home. Call 404-558-6108 for information, or visit us online at stgeorgevillage.org, and on Facebook and YouTube.

Roswell’s first senior living Life Plan retirement community 11350 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 987-0410 | stgeorgevillage.org AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Around Woodstock Letter From the Editor

One of the goals I have for each issue is to share stories of our neighbors who are doing great things, small or large deeds, to help their neighbors and friends, or folks they’ve never met who live around the world. Izetta Stoner is one of these inspirations. At 93, the Woodstock resident crochets an average of two hats per day for a nonprofit called The Encouragement Project, which sends hats and scarves throughout the United States and around the world. It’s tough to give an update on the number of hats she’s produced so far, because it changes daily. At press time, our best count is more than 2,800. Apparently Izetta’s story prompted a reader in Holly Springs, Jennifer, to contact The Encouragement Project to learn how to help. Jennifer leads a group of knitters/ crocheters at her church, and the members were looking for new places to donate. In addition to giving 100 items, the group is helping with other projects for the nonprofit. “As a result of the article, we have also heard from one other lady who wants to volunteer in an elder care home,” said Stephanie Cervantes, founder of The Encouragement Project. “I have gotten her in touch with a place in Canton.” Another reader decided to volunteer at the Circle of Friends coffee shop at The Circuit, after reading Susan Schulz’s February article about the nonprofit, which opened the coffee shop to offer job opportunities and a level of independence to young adults with disabilities. I am sure - at least, I hope - there are more stories like these that I haven’t heard about. If you’ve been inspired by the people you meet on our pages, I’d love to hear from you. It’s inspiring to me to know what we do each month is making a difference in the community. Our friends in Canton recently established eight Little Free Libraries throughout the city. I’d love to think that our May article about these fun, free-standing libraries prompted the expansion, but I’m just happy to hear that it happened. Especially since it ties into our Kindness Challenge for July.

July

Share a Book or Two. If you have a favorite book, consider passing it along to a friend, or someone you know who loves to read. Find a Little Free Library in your community and make regular visits to keep the shelves stocked. Check www.littlefreelibrary.org to find one, or look for Candy Baylor’s article on the subject in our May 2021 issue.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

What's Coming?

Aroundabout Local Media, is launching a new magazine, Around Kennesaw, in August! Our team is excited to serve our Kennesaw neighbors with a full-color, 60-page publication that highlights the news and events in the community, and supports the local businesses that make Kennesaw great. Please contact Patty Ponder at patty@aroundaboutmagazines.com or call 770-615-3322 for more information.

IN WDSTK Ribbon Cuttings

Aria Music Studio has opened at 252 Creekstone Ridge. The staff offers piano, violin, viola, guitar, ukulele and percussion lessons. www.ariamusicstudios.com.

Harry Norman Realtors recently opened at 150 Fowler St. 404-495-8331. www.harrynorman.com/ offices/3636-woodstock.

Black Airplane celebrated a move to 117 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 200. Black Airplane is a digital product design and development firm. www.blackairplane.com.

Wags & Wiggles Pet Boutique has opened at 150 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 176, where shoppers can find premium pet food, accessories and other items. On Facebook.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker

Our Mission

Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.

Results With Us

“We advertised on the front cover of Around Woodstock in July 2020. We were unprepared for the amazing and positive response we received. Our business picked up greatly and we got some amazing new customers from this awesome community. When we do it again, I will be better prepared for our increase in business." — Lori Kennedy, Alpha & Omega Automotive

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Managing Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Assistant Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 Jessica@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt Kat@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Advertise With Us

Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Get Social With Us!

@AroundWoodstockMagazine @AroundWoodstock @around_woodstock

www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Around Woodstock, 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 direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Woodstock 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 Woodstock 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 Woodstock

1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 8, Issue 9

America’s Community Magazine

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Local News

Adopt a Mile Program Gains Traction

Keep Cherokee Beautiful has begun a new program, Adopt-aMile, that encourages residents and businesses to show community pride by keeping the roadsides free of trash and debris. Cherokee County District 3 Commissioner Benny Carter recently introduced the program at a commission meeting as the first initiative for Keep Cherokee Beautiful. Tom and Ann Earley of the North Georgia Pickleball Club adopted the first road in the program, Water Tank Road. The Earleys collected eight bags of trash, weighing approximately 160 pounds during a roadside cleanup in April. Residents interested in adopting a mile need to identify a section of county road they want to adopt, sign an agreement committing to maintain the section for 12 months, and host a minimum of four roadside cleanups. Waste Management has invested in the beautification of Cherokee County by donating $23,907.76 to the Keep Cherokee Beautiful program. For more information, visit the Keep Cherokee Beautiful page at www.cherokeega.com, or email cleancherokee@gmail.com.

Woodstock Elementary teachers and students involved in the plant stand are, from left: fifth-grader Zoey Boehmer, third-grade teacher Suzy Boehmer, art teacher Maria Londoño, third-grader Kaylee Wolfe and third-grade teacher Melissa Wolfe.

Take a Plant, Leave a Plant A plant exchange stand has been set up at the Noonday Creek Trailhead in downtown Woodstock, beside the Event Green on Market Street. Woodstock Elementary students worked with OM Grown Art to paint and plan the stand, which is fully stocked and operates as a self-monitored station, where local residents can take a plant or leave one for someone else to enjoy.

Retiring County Manager Honored

Members of the North Georgia Pickleball Club are prepared to go on a clean-up mission.

Waste Management presented a check at a recent county commission meeting. From left, Cherokee County Community Services Agency Director Bryan Reynolds, Cherokee County District 3 Commissioner Benny Carter, Keep Cherokee Beautiful Board President Mark Preetorius, Waste Management community relations specialist Marla Prince and Keep Cherokee Beautiful board member Andrew Richard. 8

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Cherokee County Manager Jerry Cooper was presented the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia’s Jerry R. Griffin Excellence in Public Service Award at his retirement ceremony in May. “It was an honor to receive the Jerry R. Griffin Excellence in Public Service Award,” Cooper said. “I have been blessed to have the opportunity to work with outstanding chairmen and commissioners, agency directors, employees and community leaders, who for 20 years have made Cherokee County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.” The award recognizes an individual who has worked toward achieving a lasting positive impact on his or her community. Cooper served as Cherokee County manager for 20 years. Prior to his time with the county government, he served as the city manager for Woodstock. “Jerry has clearly been the best county manager in Georgia,” said Commission Chairman Harry Johnston. “Over the past 20 years, he’s done more than anyone else to make and keep Cherokee the state’s best value for residents and taxpayers. He’s been the common thread throughout that period to build excellent county infrastructure and services, while keeping tax rates among the lowest. And, he’s been an exceptional county leader beyond his role as county manager, leading and raising funds for more civic and charitable organizations than anyone else I know.”

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Local News Patriot Day Recording Wins Telly Award Cherokee County is among the 2021 winners of the Telly Awards, an international award honoring video and television across all screens. Established in 1979, the Telly Awards receives more than 12,000 entries from 50 states and five continents. Entrants are judged by the Telly Awards Judging Council — an industry body of more than 200 leading experts, including advertising agencies, production companies and major television networks, reflective of the multiscreen industry the awards celebrate. Cherokee County won a Silver Telly in the nonroadcast government relations category for its production of the annual Patriot Day Ceremony. Communications Director Erika Neldner and Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office Capt. Jay Baker spearheaded the video project for the county and partnered with J. Clarke Productions owner Justin Webb. “When we began planning the 9/11 ceremony in 2020, we knew it would look different. We wanted to be able to commemorate the day in a way that would welcome everyone in a safe manner,” Neldner said. “That’s when the committee, led by Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson, opted to make the experience virtual, and share it across social media platforms and YouTube.” The ceremony was prerecorded and broadcast on the Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office YouTube page, as well as Facebook pages for Cherokee fire, the sheriff ’s office and the county. On Facebook alone, the video reached nearly 60,000 people.

Erika Neldner 10

Jay Baker

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Cherokee Chamber Names Top 10 in 10 The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2021 group of Cherokee County’s Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to Watch. The Top 10 in 10 initiative focuses on Cherokee County residents under age 40 who are considered to be the county’s up and coming leaders over the next 10 years. Judging criteria included past professional achievements and awards, fiveto 10-year professional goals, as well as volunteer and community activities. The honorees, who will be under the age of 40 on Oct. 1, have been nominated for Georgia Trend magazine’s 40 Under 40 recognition. The honorees are, front row, from left: Jeremy Adams, assistant principal and athletic director, Cherokee High School/Cherokee County School District (CCSD); Anna Teal, owner, Teal Marketing; Lindsay Bowley, coordinator of recruitment, CCSD; Elizabeth Lanier Evans, clinical nurse manager, Northside Hospital Cherokee; Robert Capovilla, founding partner, Capovilla and Williams. Back row, from left: Angela Glowcheski, deputy director, Sequoyah Regional Library System; Brian Albrecht, president and CEO, Credit Union of Georgia; Christopher Brazelton, executive director, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village; Coty Thigpen, assistant city manager, Woodstock; and Savannah Holcomb, school library media specialist, River Ridge High School/CCSD.

An Evening With Tim Tebow Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Cherokee is hosting An Evening With Tim Tebow at 7 p.m. July 9 at First Baptist Church Woodstock. Individual tickets are available for $10 and proceeds fund the nonprofit’s yearlong activities. “Our goal is to encourage every athlete and coach to enter into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and his church, and nobody embodies that message as well as Tim Tebow,” said Steve Hyland, FCA Cherokee area director. “This event is a way to welcome the entire Atlanta community to listen to Tim share his testimony, while also helping underwrite the cost of the numerous activities FCA Cherokee hosts in support of all that we serve.” Tebow is a two-time NCAA national champion, Heisman trophy winner and first-round NFL draft pick. Recently, he signed a contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars to continue pursuing his dream of playing in the NFL. Also part of the event will be former Georgia Bulldog All-American linebacker Rennie Curran, who competed against Tebow in college, and Kayla Lewis Norman, who played basketball at the University of Florida and was named Georgia’s Gatorade Women High School Player of the Year in 2010. For more information, and to make a donation, visit www.cherokeefca.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Local News Fire Training Center to Get Addition A groundbreaking ceremony was held recently for an addition to the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services Training Center, on Holly Springs Parkway in Holly Springs. The completion of construction is anticipated by early January 2022. The addition is a 3,190-square-foot single story expansion that will house new offices, classroom areas, storage and support spaces. The new large classroom area includes an operable partition system, which will allow it to be divided into two smaller classrooms. The pre-engineered metal building will feature interior walls of gypsum board and metal stud framing. The exterior will be a mixture of preengineered metal building panels and brick veneer, to match the existing facade. The site work will include some demolition of existing parking, but will add new parking space and drives to connect the north and south entrances. New concrete stairs will be constructed between the upper and lower buildings, to better facilitate travel throughout the entire campus.

The mobile classroom is a STEM-based educational opportunity for students to explore agriculture.

Mobile Classroom Visits Cherokee County Students enjoying summer vacation were able to spend a day visiting a mobile classroom, sponsored by the Sequoyah Regional System, Georgia Public Library Service, Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and the Cherokee County Farm Bureau. The Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation sends out the mobile classroom, which houses a unique STEM-based education program, for students across Georgia to explore the vast opportunities in agriculture. At R.T. Jones Library, 45 third-, fourth- and fifth-graders enjoyed eight interactive stations, where they learned about poultry, peanuts, beef and dairy, cotton production, horticulture and careers in agriculture. The children also learned about planting, and potted a mint plant to take home. They took a storybook walk and made a caterpillar, played games to earn prizes and watched educational videos about science. Lunch was provided by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau and Family Tradition restaurant.

Distinguished First Responder of the Year Isaiah Johnson, a paramedic with Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, has been named the Distinguished First Responder of the Year by Northside Cherokee Hospital The award was presented during National EMS Week, which honors the contributions of those who work on the medical front line. A plaque in his honor will be placed in the EMS lounge at the hospital. Isaiah Johnson’s nieces, Anna and Nariah, and his father, Frank, attended the ceremony with Johnson and Sara Putzer, manager of emergency services at Northside Cherokee Hospital, Jonathan Gottfried and EMS Chief Nate Sullivan. 12

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

What’s in a Name? A Lot, Actually!

BY JUSTIN SPAINHOUR-ROTH

Elm Street Cultural Arts Center. Elm Street Cultural Village. Elm’s Village of the Arts. I’ve heard many different versions of our organization’s name through the years in email, over the phone, in internet listings − you name it. Well, I have some exciting, and hopefully, easier to remember news for you. As of Aug. 1, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village officially will be rebranded as Woodstock Arts. If you’re curious how and why we got that new identity, here’s some quick context and background. Towne Lake Arts Center (TLAC) was founded by performing artist Gay Lora Grooms in 2002 in a small blackbox-style theater building off Bells Ferry Road. In 2010, Gay and visual artists Shawn McLeod and Ann Litrel developed a vision for a multi-disciplinary art center. TLAC was reinvented as Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, moving to the former historic Woodstock Baptist Church on Main Street, and on Elm Street as part of a 4-acre property in downtown Woodstock.

In August 2019, staff, board members and stakeholders held an initial meeting with local businesses and organizations, including Reformation Brewery, officials from Woodstock and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, along with Tom Cox, a designer whose portfolio includes Coca-Cola, Surge and Holiday Inn, to name a few. We were gearing up for our biggest theatrical season yet, the second year of our outdoor concert lineup, the Lantern Series, and working on projects such as the Reeves House, as well as the natural playground collaboration with Woodstock. With exciting growth in our future, it was an opportune time to discuss a new identity and image that would be able to grow with us and welcome as many people into our organization as possible. What came out of those meetings and sessions almost two years later was a simple and clear brand identity as Woodstock Arts: where we are, and what we do. Tom also helped us hone in on our vision of art being the heartbeat of community.

Elm Street’s Ann Litrel, Katie Caldwell and Christopher Brazelton were in the center of the crowd that attended the Reeves House ribbon cutting. Photo by Rebecca Blackwell. 14

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

With the opening of the Reeves House in May, many exciting things have happened.

• A celebration of local and regional artists in the gallery with our inaugural exhibit and a schedule of rotating shows. • Expanded class offerings for all ages in visual arts, pottery and ceramics, as well as a return of regular theater and improv classes. • Ways to connect to all kinds of art through free community events. • Evenings under the stars with live music and the company of neighbors at the Lantern Series concerts. • The story and songs of Junie B. Jones will officially welcome audiences back into the theater with multi-weekend shows beginning July 7.

Part of the vision for Woodstock Arts is to be the heartbeat of the community. Photo by Rebecca Blackwell.

Visit https://elmstreetarts. org/events/ for a full schedule of events.

Our community is growing, and we want to be sure everyone knows who we are, our passion for the arts and this community. As you start to see more posters, social media posts, internet listings, etc., with the name Woodstock Arts, know it’s the same organization you’ve come to know and support since 2002. Woodstock Arts can’t wait to welcome you! Justin Spainhour-Roth, marketing manager for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, has a bachelor of arts in communication in musical theater from Bowling Green State University.

The inaugural exhibit, [Re]constructing Home, featured artwork from 20 local, regional, and national artists who explore the elusive concept of home in a variety of media, from keys cast in resin to armchairs made out of paper. Photo by Nicole Lampl. AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Happy Indepen

BY STACY BROWN

July Fourth falls on a Sunday this year, but the Independence Day holiday will be observed on Monday, July 5, by the federal government and state of Georgia. Although we typically celebrate on July 4, the Continental Congress actually voted for independence on July 2, 1776. John Adams noted in his writings that July 2 should be marked “with pomp and parade … from one end of this continent to the other.” He would turn down invitations to celebrations on July 4, believing that July 2 was the correct date for celebration. Some people have been confused by observances taking place on July 5 in Woodstock this year. While those people are in good company, historically, like Adams in particular, we hope that won’t keep them from joining in on the fun. Local celebrations will include a parade, festival and fireworks at dusk. Main Street will close at 7 a.m. for the Freedom Run, which starts at 7:15 a.m. There will be a 5K, 1 mile and Tot Trot. More information is available at www.woodstockfreedomrun.com. Streets will reopen 8:45-9:45 a.m. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Woodstock Elementary School and will travel south through downtown Woodstock to the Sam’s Club parking lot near Main Street and Highway 92. Main Street will reopen at 11:30 a.m. For the parade map and road closures, visit https://woodstock.recdesk.com. The festival will take place in The Park at City Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, games, activities for children and a DJ. At dusk, Woodstock will host a fantastic fireworks celebration in the area of Molly Lane and Highway 92, near Interstate 575. Traffic plans for those wishing to park in the area around Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, His Hands Church and BJ’s are available on the Special Events tab of the Woodstock Parks and Recreation website. For more information on the July 4th Spectacular, visit woodstockparksandrec.com. Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 770-592-6056 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.

ndence Day! July 3

Woodstock Independence Day Crawl

One of a series of themed Saturday events, featuring food and drink specials at downtown food establishments. Participants are encouraged to visit all of the participating restaurants.

Kennesaw Salute to America

Enjoy live music, festive street entertainment, food vendors and activities for children, 6-10 p.m at Depot Park. At 9:30 p.m., stay at Depot Park, or head over to Adams Park or Main Street to watch the fireworks display.

Marietta Fourth in the Park

The events begin at noon in Marietta Square, and include a parade, free live concerts, museum tours, arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and more.

July 4

Canton Fireworks

The American Legion - Canton Post is hosting a patriotic parade at 3 p.m. downtown. Fireworks begin at dusk at Riverstone Shopping Plaza (I-575, exit 20).

Acworth Concert and Fireworks

Live music and fireworks will take place at Cauble Park. Music begins at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks will begin at approximately 9:30 p.m., subject to change depending on weather. Shuttles will not be running for this event. Handicap parking will be available at McCall Primary School, with a shuttle provided for handicapped attendees, beginning at noon.

Powder Springs SpringsFest

Festivities start at noon in Thurman Springs Park. There will be interactive dance parties, kids activities, bounce houses, food trucks, face painting, vendors, game trucks, live music and more. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

July 5

Woodstock July Fourth Spectacular Parade, Festival and Fireworks

• Freedom Run 7:15 a.m. The 25th annual Freedom Run 5K, 1 Mile, and Tot Trot. • Parade 10-11 a.m., starting at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, traveling south on Main Street and ending at Sam’s Club near Highway 92. Rain or shine unless inclement weather. • Festival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Great fun, food, arts, crafts, music, kids activities and more at the Park at City Center! • Fireworks begin at dusk from the general area of Molly Lane and Lowe’s Shopping Center (Highway 92 near 575). AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Concert Season is Back! An estimated 7,500-8,000 people turned out to hear The Black Jacket Symphony re-create Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers’ classic album “Damn the Torpedoes,” during the summer’s first concert on June 12 at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

PHOTOS BY BRITTANY WEIR PHOTOGRAPHY

Be Pro Be Proud Georgia Gets Grant SUBMITTED BY THE CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Be Pro Be Proud Georgia — a comprehensive initiative that connects students around the state to highdemand, high-paying careers — recently announced it is the recipient of a $600,000 grant from the Marcus Foundation. Launched in July 2020, Be Pro Be Proud Georgia is aimed at changing the perception of the skilled professions by linking career opportunities, training and where to find jobs through an interactive website and hands-on mobile workshop. The Marcus Foundation’s generous two-year investment will help Be Pro Be Proud continue to work statewide, attracting talent to Georgia’s high-demand industry sectors and changing public perception about these valuable careers. The Marcus Foundation is well known for its groundbreaking investments in initiatives that deliver unprecedented training opportunities and build a sustainable workforce. “The path to success is not always paved with a four-year degree,” said Bernie Marcus, chairman of the Marcus Foundation. “A skill within the trades can lead to a lifelong, fulfilling career. From construction workers to commercial truck drivers, the skilled professions help build our world and keep our economy moving forward.” The foundation’s early investment will begin solving one of this state’s greatest problems and influence widescale change. “The skills gap is a threat to economic growth, and the Marcus Foundation’s support will help this initiative close that gap,” said Marshall Day, Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) chairman and Be Pro Be Proud Georgia founding team member. To learn more about Be Pro Be Proud Georgia, visit https://www.beprobeproudga.org. 20

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Students Brandon Gomez, left, and Brent Burgess, right, with Jacob Flanagan.

Signing Day for Skilled-Career Students Be Pro Be Proud Georgia, in partnership with COED, the Cherokee County School District and Chattahoochee Technical College, recently hosted the first annual Skilled Professions Signing Day. The event celebrated 19 high school seniors, representing the six county high schools, who are committed to pursuing advanced technical training or careers in skilled trades. In a format similar to national signing days for athletes, the inaugural signing day event seeks to raise awareness of the value of the skilled professions and celebrate students who have made a commitment to fulfill these essential careers. “This was a big day,” Cherokee High senior Brent Burgess said. “It takes a lot of skill and dedication to do what we are training to do.” Etowah High senior Brandon Gomez added, “This day cements what

I’ll be doing for the rest of my career.” “Getting to come out and teach these kids about their future is a wonderful opportunity to show what the industry holds and the potential income possibilities,” NASCAR Technical Institute admissions representative Jacob Flanagan said. “It is our hope that this event will become a statewide event for years to come,” said COED President Misti Martin. “Initiatives such as Be Pro Be Proud Georgia and the Skilled Professions Signing Day shine a light on high-growth industry sectors and opportunities for lifelong, fulfilling careers.” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower added, “Skilled professionals build our world and keep it running smoothly each day in so many ways. It’s an honor to help recognize their work’s importance through this celebration.”

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention and expansion. www.cherokeega.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

6 Tips for Cooking Out, Teddy Style BY TEDDY THE SPAZ MAN

Grilling is one of my all-time favorite activities because it involves family, friends, food, food and food. And not to brag or anything, but I majored in grillology, so I’m gonna share some sweet tips to ensure you serve up the best dawgs and burgs on the block.

Cook the Meat to Order

There’s nothing worse than serving your guests a raw dawg when they’re jonesin’ for a burnt ween. Cook meat to perfection by asking your dog to taste test. If it’s underdone, they’ll drool. If it’s overdone, they’ll drool. If it’s just right, they’ll drool. This way, the meat will always be cooked to perfection!

How did these get here??

Teddy is a master of grillology and has learned - the hard way - what kind of tongs are required.

Have a Pair of Tongs Handy

Use a Side Table

Food Safety

Be a Gracious Host(ess)

Clean Up

Please read this carefully. One year, I misunderstood and showed up sportin’ a barely-there thong. This is not what I would recommend. At least not until all the guests have safely digested their meals. Food safety is a top priority. It’s especially important to avoid cross contamination. What this means is that you should only give food to your dog. Leaning over to give food to someone else is not only bad manners, but it could result in some pretty nasty consequences. And that’d just be embarrassing for you.

Side tables are a must for a successful cookout. Place all your yummy apps and extras near the edge and make sure the tables are never over two feet tall. And never – I repeat never – put broccoli on the table. They taste like trees. They look like trees. And you know what us dogs do to trees. Your guests should never be asked to pick up dropped food. Instead, I suggest using the highly efficient Canine Lapper. An all-natural product, the Canine Lapper (also known as a dog’s tongue) can retrieve food from hard-to-reach places, and best of all, it can clean a 10-foot area in a recordbreaking 6.4 seconds.

The food’s been eaten, and the fun’s been had, so it’s tempting to wanna leave the clean-up for everyone else. However, you must stay until the end. Just kidding! As soon as you’re done stuffing your hound hole, make a beeline for the comfiest couch and spread out like a boss. Teddy the Spaz Man is a social media dog and not-so-humble Hallmark star living in downtown Woodstock. Facebook/Instagram: @teddythespazman.

Food comas are real, yo. 22

AROUND WOODSTOCK | 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 WOODSTOCK | July 2021

GRILLIN &

CHILLIN

July is National Grilling Month, and because our mouths started watering when we discovered this, we decided to ask a few local grillmasters to share their best tips and a few of their favorite recipes. If you decide to try one of these recipes, take a photo of your creation and send it to us, or post on social media and tag us. We’d love to celebrate your grilling success — and maybe join you for dinner?

5 Tips for Grilling Steak BY ASHER KELSEY

1. 2. 3. 4.

For an evenly done steak, use the reverse sear method.

Always let your thawed, refrigerated steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Invest in a good meat thermometer — if you spend less than $50, you are risking inaccuracy. If you really want to make grilling easy, get two grills: one that’s built for low temperatures (like a pellet grill) and one for high temperatures (like a traditional gas grill or griddle). This setup allows you to bring the steak to 10 degrees below your desired internal temperature on the low-temperature grill (131 degrees is the perfect medium rare) before searing it a few minutes per side at close to 500 degrees on the hightemperature grill. Your steak will have a nice smokey component this way.

If you want to play around with flavor, don’t do it with the seasoning (which should be limited to salt, pepper and garlic powder) — do it with accompaniments and garnishes. Herbs and compound butter are perfect toppers. Experiment with different flavor profiles to give guests a unique experience. For instance, try a compound butter with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper and fresh lemon juice.

Grillmaster Asher Kelsey stands in front of his Traeger and Blackstone grills at his home in Woodstock. 24

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Reverse-Seared Steak With Lemon Compound Butter Asher Kelsey, Woodstock

I like using two grills for this cooking method: one low temperature, and one high. However, using one grill definitely will work.

Ingredients

• • • •

1 stick of unsalted butter 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon rosemary 1 tablespoon thyme

Directions

• • • •

½ of a lemon, juiced salt and pepper garlic powder your choice of steak

Before grilling, make your compound butter. Melt the butter just enough so you can mix in the minced garlic, rosemary and thyme. Add the lemon juice and a few shakes of salt and pepper. Once mixed, wrap the compound butter in plastic wrap so it clumps into a cylinder, and let it harden in the fridge for no less than 3 hours. Set out your thawed, refrigerated steak on the counter. Season liberally with equal salt, pepper and garlic powder. Let sit for 30-40 minutes. Heat your grill to 225 degrees and place the steaks on the grill. Measure the center of the steaks with a reliable meat thermometer for the most accurate reading. When they reach an internal temperature of 120 degrees, pull them off the grill while you heat it to a higher temperature for searing. Crank your grill to 500 degrees. Sear the steaks 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove from the grill. Place a slice or two of the compound butter on top of each steak and tent it with aluminum foil for 5 minutes, to allow it to melt. Consider garnishing with rosemary or a herb of your choice. Enjoy!

Tomahawk steak with compound butter. 26

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Andrew loves grilling at his home in Towne Lake.

Steak Kebabs

Andrew Markley, Woodstock

I like to use 2 pounds of top sirloin or strip steak for kebabs, but sirloin tips also work well, and can save you some time.

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

¼ cup soy sauce ½ cup teriyaki sauce 1 tablespoon of steak seasoning 1 cup red wine vegetables of choice salt and pepper garlic powder olive oil

Directions

Mix the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Cut the steak into 1 ½ inch pieces and add to a gallon size resealable bag. Pour the marinade on top; make sure the steak is coated, and squeeze out excess air from the bag. Marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours. Cut your vegetables into similar size pieces as the meat, and place into a large bowl. My favorites are onion, mushroom and asparagus, but you can use zucchini, tomato, squash, broccoli or bell pepper. Sprinkle the vegetables with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Use metal skewers, or make sure you soak wooden skewers in water before grilling. Layer steak and vegetables onto 3-5 skewers. If using thinner vegetables, like onion, layer 2-3 pieces together so they don’t burn. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 425 degrees. Brush the grates lightly with oil and place the kebabs on the grill. Cook until the steak reaches desired doneness, turning occasionally, around 8-10 minutes for medium doneness.

Randy often grills for family and friends at his home in BridgeMill.

Pig Shots

Glen Barber, Woodstock

A shot glass made of pork, filled with cheese and peppers, dusted with brown sugar and smoked until crisp.

Ingredients • • • • • • •

2 smoked sausages, cut into disks about ½ inch thick 2 pounds of thick sliced bacon, cut in half crosswise 2 blocks of cream cheese 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese 2 small cans of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or use diced chiles ¼ cup of your favorite barbecue rub (Bad Byron’s Butt Rub is a good basic rub) brown sugar for dusting

Directions

Wrap a piece of bacon around the sausage, and pin it with the toothpick. It should look like a shot glass made of pork. The sausage acts as the base, and the bacon as the walls of the “glass.” Mix all ingredients, except brown sugar, and blend until smooth. Spoon the mixture into a resealable bag, and cut the corner off to make a “country piping bag.” Fill each of your shot glasses with your mixture, and place them in a smoker-safe pan, like castiron, or a dish with a lip. Some grease will collect in the pan as you cook. Avoid spilling any into the fire, which can cause trouble. Finally, dust the pig shots with brown sugar. I smoke them with apple wood or Jack Daniels chips at 350 degrees until the bacon crisps up, about 10-15 minutes. Let them cool some before eating, and enjoy.

Dry Rub Ribs Randy Saxon, Canton

For ribs, try a dry rub that uses sugar and spices. I use a pellet smoker and smoke at a lower temperature to start, and then crank up the heat later. These ribs will have a moist and tender consistency, and a flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients • • • • •

¼ cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons sugar

Directions

• • • • • •

4 teaspoons smoked paprika 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 teaspoons onion powder 2 teaspoons ground mustard 1 teaspoon celery salt ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preheat the grill or smoker to 185 degrees. Combine the dry ingredients into a bowl. Mix well. As a binder, use mustard to hold the rub on the ribs. This is optional, but it doesn’t impact the flavor, since that comes from the spices and smoke. Apply mustard to both sides of the ribs, then apply the rub to the ribs. Cook at 185 degrees for 3 hours. After 3 hours, increase the temperature to 225 degrees, and cook for 2 more hours. Then, wrap the ribs in foil and cook for another hour.

Easy Grilled Chicken Mark Markley, Ball Ground

Grilling chicken gives such a good flavor that you don’t need many spices to impress your guests. I like to use breasts, drums or thighs with this simple marinade.

Ingredients • • •

salt and pepper lemon pepper seasoning, or your favorite all-seasoning olive oil

Directions

Glen’s recipe won second place in Marlow’s National Recipe Contest and first place in People’s Choice.

Season the chicken with salt, pepper and lemon pepper seasoning to taste. Add the chicken to a gallon size resealable bag. Pour in olive oil to coat. Marinate in the fridge, for 45 minutes to an hour. Alternatively, forgo the marinade; just season the chicken to taste. Brush the grill with olive oil before putting the chicken on. This prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill and ripping apart when you turn it. If you can’t find your meat thermometer, there’s another way to check if your chicken is done. Poke a piece of chicken with your spatula; the juice that runs out should be clear, not red or pink. AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Personal E W

Dianna and Dennis Hornes share a background in military service: she served in the Air Force and he was in the Army. 28

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

hen Realtor Dianna Hornes says she works tirelessly for her clients, she has some great examples that show her work ethic. There was a time she worked with a client who had a very specific “wants” list. In about four months, they toured more than 131 homes. Dianna said the average number of showings to find the right home is 25. Dianna’s clients run the gamut from first-time homebuyers, ranging from ages 20 to 70, to those facing health hardships and financial struggles. She helped a 70-year-old woman buy her first home. Another client was a single mother who needed help escaping her situation and starting fresh with her young daughters in a new home. Then there’s the couple who needed help finding a home after the husband was diagnosed with cancer. As an Air Force veteran married to a policeman who is an Army veteran, Dianna has a special place in her heart for assisting veterans and other front-line service workers, like firefighters and police officers. She helped an Army veteran who didn’t realize he could utilize his VA benefits to purchase a home. Another young police officer was able, with her help, to find his first home, and she assisted a military family needing to relocate to Georgia. “I do my best to help everyone in a special way. From the single mother who needs to find a rental home ASAP to the 28-year law enforcement veteran who just wants to find something near his grandkids,” Dianna said. “Everyone deserves to be treated as if they are special, because they are.”

Dianna Hornes | Hornes Real Estate Facebook: Hornes Real Estate Group •

Experience Motivates This Realtor Meet Dianna Hornes

Part of Dianna’s motivation to help others comes from her personal experiences. As a single mother, she decided to move from Gwinnett County to Woodstock because she loved all that Cherokee County has to offer, including great schools, parks and a friendly downtown. Outgoing and personable, Dianna said she gets to know people on a deep level, listens to what they are saying and cares about meeting their needs. Her experiences, and those of her husband Dennis, inspire her to help fellow veterans and public service personnel. “My business is a family affair. My husband is a licensed Realtor and helps show buyers on his days off, or chauffeurs me from appointment to appointment so we can spend more time together,” she said. “My daughters will help put together pop-by gifts (little monthly gifts to clients and friends with a theme). They help me with video and picture ideas. They are my why.” Dianna received her Realtor’s license in October, 2015, and her broker’s license in August, 2020. As an associate broker with Atlanta Communities, she serves on the board of directors for the Cherokee Association of Realtors. “I love being an advocate for my fellow Realtors,” she said.

that meets at 8:30 a.m. on Thursdays. Attendance has grown from 12 to 69 in the last year. She also mentors and coaches new agents who join Atlanta Communities, working with them during their first year to ensure their success. Running an online divorce workshop for women is another way she helps others. The monthly meetings offer a supportive and understanding environment. “It’s focused on encouraging peaceful, empowered decisions about divorce. I went through a rough divorce a few years ago. I didn’t feel empowered and wasn’t aware of my options. Had I known about this group, I feel I would have been better equipped to handle what was thrown my way.”

Looking to the Future

Dianna has jumped into this career with both feet, with the support of Dennis and her daughters.

“I had always tried to get into real estate, but the marriage I was in previously did not allow me to do anything with personal growth. Dennis saw something in me I did not see and encouraged me from the beginning,” she said. “I would talk about how I always wanted to go into real estate, and one day he said, Just go! Go do it! And I did.” With Dennis cheering her on, she has moved past that “roller coaster ride” of her first year as a Realtor, and she’s excited for the future. “I’ve been able to triple my business in sales. I know my future growth lies in helping other Realtors realize their potential,” Dianna said. “I know I will eventually become a managing broker with a successful real estate brokerage. As a mentor in real estate at my current brokerage, I’m taking steps toward that goal every day.”

When working with veterans or service personnel, Dianna gives a percentage or portion of her commission to her client’s closing costs. In turn, she reduces her listing fee for those special clients. “It’s our way of saying thank you for all that they do.” Dianna helps run the Woodstock Business Club, a networking group

PHOTOS BY MANIAC.AGENCY

More Ways to Give Back

Dennis and Dianna Hornes with their children Matthew, 3, Kayla, 10, and Madison, 14.

Group of Atlanta Communities • 9860 Highway 92, Woodstock 30188 • 404-793-3312 • www.HORNESGROUP.com Instagram: @DiannaAtlanta • YouTube: https://bit.ly/2RoQbk4 • LinkedIn: Dianna Hornes Sponsored Content

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

New County Manager, New Budget BY HARRY JOHNSTON

scenario under initial consideration would leave the county We are pleased to welcome our new county manager, Geoff maintenance and operations (M&O) and fire tax rates flat, Morton. Geoff replaced longtime County Manager Jerry while reducing the park bond tax rate. The school tax is Cooper on June 1. Geoff is a 19-year veteran of Cherokee separately set by the Board of Education, but we may have an County government. Prior to this appointment, he served as opportunity for a small reduction in the fire tax chief county engineer, community development rate. We also are on track to meet, or exceed, director and deputy county manager. our targets for reducing and eliminating the Geoff is inheriting management of a use of reserves over the next two years. We’re county that is in great shape, but which still fortunate to have adequate financial reserves, has ongoing challenges. We have been able and we have some unexpected opportunities to to manage and keep up with our exceptional add to them, but we only want to draw on them growth better than most fast-growing counties. for short periods. Infrastructure and services are mostly excellent, Unlike most counties, Cherokee offers and the tax burden is among the lowest in homeowners a floating homestead exemption Georgia. Growth can be a good thing; however, that automatically increases with property it takes great care to manage it in a way that value, for as long as you own your home. If the doesn’t overwhelm us, drive taxes up to pay Board of Commissioners doesn’t increase the for it, or destroy the quality of life that makes tax rate, your county M&O tax bill won’t go people want to live here. up. However, the homestead exemption only Geoff is thoughtful, universally liked and applies to the county M&O tax. If the other tax respected. He’s up to the task, but he’ll need the rates stay flat and your assessed value increases, New county manager, Geoff Morton. full support of the Board of Commissioners, you’ll see an increase in those parts of the tax county employees and all citizens, so that our bill. That’s why we try to reduce rates a little each year. county continues to prosper. I’m always interested in your thoughts. Email me at In the current budget, we committed to increase the hjohnston@cherokeega.com. number of public safety employees, and raise their pay to match surrounding jurisdictions, in order to meet the needs and demands of county growth. It made that budget a tough one. To avoid an increase in tax rates, we postponed some of those initiatives into the upcoming budget year, so we knew Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County this one also would be tough. Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and The good news is, the initial numbers indicate we’re accounting manager, and a former district commissioner. on track to meet our challenging goals. The budget

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Burpees for Veterans Heal

Andrew St. Bernard, chiropractor at Corrective Chiropractic in Woodstock, has an inspiring story to share. “For the month of April, I was challenged by a friend to complete 2,000 burpees while raising money for Stop Soldier Suicide. Amidst the challenge, I felt it necessary to up the ante to 6,000 burpees, completed as a whole office (staff and clients at Corrective Chiropractic). I also felt a burden to do more than just raise money, but physically touch the life of a local veteran in need. “We said if we got to 6,000 collectively, which represents the average number of veteran suicides committed annually in the United States, we would sponsor chiropractic care through our Chiropractic For All Foundation for a veteran in need for a whole year. “We crushed that goal, completing over 7,000 burpees. I reached out to Jim Lindenmayer, director of the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program, to help with a nominee. He introduced me to Jim B., who is a paraplegic, and we were happy to award him with the gift of chiropractic care for a year! Since he started just a couple weeks ago, he says he has improved mobility in his shoulders and neck, and is sleeping better.”

Andrew St. Bernard with Jim B.

Club Provides Camp Tuition The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club contributed $1,000 to help local high school students attend the summer day camp at Reinhardt University School of Performing Arts. This is the fourth year the group has offered support for the annual camp. Reinhardt University School of Performing Arts’ summer day camp provides an opportunity for local high school students to enhance their theater skills, including workshops in singing and acting to set design and makeup. For camp information, visit www.reinhardt.edu/schools-programs/school-of-performing-arts/ musical-theatre-intensive/.

John Michael Bowling

Woodstock Native Earns Medical Degree

John Michael Bowling of Woodstock has received a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, and will undergo emergency medicine residency training with Cleveland Clinic Akron General in Akron, Ohio.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Congratulations! Children’s Book Donated to Libraries

For the sixth consecutive year, the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) and the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) are jointly promoting agricultural literacy by donating copies of the children’s book “Tales of the Dairy Godmother: Chuck’s Ice Cream Wish” to the more than 400 libraries in the Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS). The GFA and Georgia EMC have given each county farm bureau in Georgia enough books for every public library in each county. Cherokee County Farm Bureau recently delivered a copy of the book to the following libraries: Ball Ground, Cherokee County Law Library, Hickory Flat, R.T. Jones, Rose Creek and Woodstock.

From left: John Bennett, vice-chairman board of directors Amicalola EMC in Jasper; Shirley Pahl program coordinator/office manager for the Cherokee County Farm Bureau, and John Rodgers, community engagement manager at the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

Woodstock resident Craig Kramer has been named CEO of Gulf Georgia. Kramer has more than 30 years of experience in the oil industry with small companies and larger brand names, serving in roles ranging from consultant to regional manager. Craig Kramer

Canton Piano Student Earns National Award Ephram Key of Canton is a winner in the National Guild of Piano Teachers Guild auditions, which recognizes accomplished students at all levels of piano achievement. Ephram performed a 10-piece memorized program before a professional adjudicator, chosen by the national organization. The adjudicator scores the student based on his or her performance in the areas of accuracy, continuity, phrasing, pedaling, dynamics, rhythm, tempo, tone, interpretation, style and technique. Each winner is awarded a certificate, a pin and a report card that acknowledges their areas of achievement and areas that might need additional effort. They also gain membership in the National Fraternity of Student Musicians. Ephram is a piano student of Anna Lee Moss of Canton. Anna is a member of the American College of Musicians.

Novel Written to Help Youth

Former school psychologist and Cherokee County resident Dr. John Poidevant has written an adventure novel that addresses challenges faced by youth that often exceed their coping skills. Depression, anxiety and suicide are on the rise with tragic results. “Into the Vortex” is intended to promote hope and resiliency for teens and tweens (ages 11-15). The story/plot is drawn from the author’s 30-plus years as a school psychologist and mental health consultant working directly with elementary, middle and high school students; many of whom faced life’s most difficult challenges. The story is fiction, but based on a series of real-life events.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Ephram Key with piano teacher Anna Lee Moss.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Communication & Collaboration Executive coach leads interactive workshops and shares keys to success.

Justin Kier's goal is to help individuals recognize their potential.

businesses that have small offices and a handful of employees. Justin is looking forward to the future in teambuilding and leadership development, which involves a shift toward longer-term relationships with his clients. “When the business first launched, it was back in the days of field games and ropes courses. We have continued to add deeper levels of training and, over the next five years, are shifting more and more into the leader-team development side, and less about just the fun and games,” he said. “It’s still important to have time to build camaraderie and get to know your team better, and we still offer a little of that. But, you will continue to see us spending more time working with groups over longer periods of coaching, series of workshops, and keynote speaking.”

hether a business is a Fortune 500 company or a small, locally owned operation, there are some basic guidelines in running a successful firm that apply to both. According to Justin Kier, the key is how people interact and communicate. As the lead facilitator with Atlanta Challenge Team Building, Justin leads interactive workshops designed to help teams and organizations understand how to maximize their strengths and increase productivity. As a coach and teacher at heart, Justin’s job comes naturally. He has a degree in health and physical education, has studied multiple team and leadership development coaching programs, and is a certified life coach. His passion for helping others has taken him from the classroom and the gym to the boardroom. “The beginning of my career was in the educationfitness industries, but standing in front of groups and helping them collaborate is my passion,” Justin said. “I also love the ripple effect it has of improving people’s career-work life, which improves their home life as well.” Justin’s coaching skills easily transfer to what he does today. His goal is to help individuals recognize their potential, and learn how to tap into it through teambuilding workshops and activities, executive coaching, keynote speaking and strategic leadership work sessions. “Much of the workshop leads each person through interactive exercises that help with self-discovery,” Justin said. “Understanding yourself is the first step in unlocking your potential.” Atlanta Challenge has worked with companies across the Southeast for 17 years, hosting more than 200 events annually for the past 10 years. Justin has been involved with Atlanta Challenge for four years, and recently partnered with the company as a speaker, executive coach and lead facilitator. While the company is based in Atlanta, the Cherokee County resident travels to work on-site with businesses across metro Atlanta. His clients have included Chickfil-A, Home Depot and Delta, in addition to multiple

Justin is one of the best and most dynamic speakers I’ve ever heard. I’ve had the pleasure of hearing him speak many times and always walk away supremely impressed. He really knows how to command the stage, but, more importantly, his knowledge and expertise are what blow me away.

Atlanta Challenge Team Building | 3355 Lenox Road, Suite 750, Atlanta, GA 30326 | 404-848-1001 | www.atlantachallenge.com Sponsored Content 36

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

A kindergarten student at Liberty Elementary School.

Countdown to

BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

While our students, teachers and school support staff enjoy a well-deserved break this summer, Cherokee County School District’s (CCSD) central office is busy preparing for the new school year. On Monday, Aug. 2, we’ll welcome back 42,000 students for a year of learning, with new programs to participate in, new teachers and staff to learn from and new friends to make. In addition to offering traditional in-person classes, CCSD will continue to offer digital learning for the first semester. You can find school supply lists and other basic back-to-school info on your child’s school website. We’ll send the next CCSD Connections parent newsletter to all parents in mid-July with the latest back-to-school updates. While CCSD Digital Learning is a temporary program, student interest in a permanent digital option led the district to create i-Grad Virtual Academy, which will serve students in grades 9-12 beginning in August. The initial i-Grad enrollment is 200 high school students, but the program may be expanded to more students and additional grade levels in the future. 38

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Although a full-time virtual school, i-Grad still follows the traditional school calendar. It’s housed on the ACTIVE Academies campus in Canton, which also includes ACE Academy daytime alternative high school, CCSD Transition Academy for older special-needs students and the new Cherokee College and Career Academy (C3 Academy). Students enrolled in i-Grad complete classwork online at home, but come to the campus for specific tests, and can attend optional in-person instructional sessions as offered. Andy Hall, who most recently served as an assistant principal at River Ridge High School, is the lead administrator. If you think i-Grad may be a good fit for your child in the future, more information is online at http://bit. ly/CCSDigrad. C3 Academy opens in August with its initial career pathway course offerings in cyber security. Enrollment is open to students from all Cherokee County high schools, with plans to expand to offer other unique career programs. You can find out more about C3 Academy by contacting your child’s school counselor. All county high schools already offer a variety of career pathway classes through the Career, Technical & Agricultural Education (CTAE) program, ranging from agriculture to computer science, to healthcare science to transportation. More information about CTAE programs can be found at http://bit.ly/CCSDctae. Every new school year, CCSD welcomes new teachers and staff, following the retirement of longtime employees. In addition to the usual hiring needs, CCSD hired 125 additional teachers. These new teachers will help lower class size and provide individualized instruction to ensure any learning opportunity losses due to the pandemic are bridged as quickly as possible. Funding for school nurses, psychologists and social workers also has increased to better serve students’ needs. More information can be found in CCSD’s Financial Facts budget overview at https://bit.ly/ CCSDff21. Four Cherokee County schools will welcome new principals. Dr. Carolyn Daugherty, who has led Macedonia Elementary as its principal since 2016, has been tapped as Bascomb Elementary’s next principal. Christy Rich, who most recently served as an assistant principal at Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy, will serve as Macedonia’s next principal. After successfully leading Mountain Road Elementary for the last five years, Principal Melinda Roulier will take over the post at Ball Ground Elementary STEM Academy. Erica Morrie, who has served as an assistant principal at Carmel Elementary since 2018, will serve as the new principal for Mountain Road. We look forward to seeing you soon as we celebrate the start of a new school year!

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

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Body Wrap – $100 Buy 2 get 3rd Free. CoolTone – $999 for 6 Treatments Abs or Buttocks – monthly maintenance starting at $99/month Vaginal Rejuvenation – $1500 Screening Testosterone Lab – $10

Grande Lash InstaLift Threads (non- surgical face lift) Take Home Hydrating Kit - $45 includes eye and lip mask, and

hydrating exfoliant and mask.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com August deadline is July 10.

Please specify Around Woodstock.

Congratulations!

Christine Vanstrom married

RJ Lagomasino Jr.,

on April 24. Photo by Holcomb Creative Co. www.holcombcreative.co.

Veer Lamba

Happy eighth birthday! We are very proud of you. Love, Dada, Dadi, Saanvi, Papa, Mummy

Samuel Goldman Age 5 on July 20 Happy birthday! We are so proud of you! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Jack

Congratulations

McKenzie,

age 11, on finishing elementary school at Lyndon Academy!

Chloe

Age 10 on July 2 Happy 10th birthday Chloe! Love, Mom, Dad, Allison, Max and Chelsea (woof!)

Owen, Isaac and Savannah Robertson

Owen - Age 15 on June 22 Isaac - Age 12 on May 9 Savannah - Age 10 on June 29 Happy birthday! We love you all so much and are so proud of you! Love, Mom and Dad

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Chloe Sigley,

Congratulations Woodstock grads

Sophie Abbott, Mia Abbott, Nicole Rubin and Mitch Abbott.

River Ridge High We are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Ronnie, Dad and Mandy

Tips for Choosing OB-GYN or Midwife BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

Many women who are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, wonder if they should see an OB-GYN, a midwife, or both. To make the best decision, it’s important to know the difference. Both OB-GYNs and nurse midwives have extensive training. An OB-GYN is a doctor who has studied for at least 12 years between college, medical school and 4 years of residency. Most midwives earn bachelor’s degrees, work as registered nurses, and go back to school for two or more years to obtain a master’s degree in midwifery. OB-GYNs and midwives work in separate but complementary professions. Both focus on quality prenatal and postpartum care; however, these providers offer different services.

OB-GYN

• Attends and assists with births within a hospital setting. • Handles high-risk pregnancies and can perform surgeries, such as cesarean sections. • Uses forceps or vacuum delivery for difficult deliveries. • Offers external cephalic versions to turn breech babies.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET Theatre

ON STAGE

Junie B. Jones

Legally Blonde

Musical | All ages

Musical | Ages 13+ (Language)

JUL 7-21, 2021

AUG 13-29, 2021

Lantern Series

UNDER THE STARS

Certified Nurse Midwife

• Attends births in hospital settings, also assists in birthing centers or home births. • Relies on clinical experience and guidelines to provide expert care in normal pregnancies. • Spends more time with patients during labor. • Uses natural approaches, such as showers, water births, massages, breathing techniques, acupressure and alternative delivery positions during labor.

Pop Roots

Scott Mulvahill

Irish Folk | Coming in from Ireland!

JigJam

JUL 31, 2021

JUL 17, 2021

Considerations In Making a Decision

• Is vaginal birth your priority? • Have you been told you have a high-risk pregnancy? • Would you prefer an epidural or managing your pain using natural techniques? • Do you want your caregiver with you throughout your labor? • Are you a new parent who needs more educational support and advice about nutrition, breast-feeding and exercise during pregnancy and after delivery?

By knowing what you want and understanding all of your options, you can make the decision that is right for you. The most important thing is to clearly communicate your expectations, goals, needs and desires with your provider. By choosing a practice that has both OB-GYNs and midwives, you can ensure you have all the options to keep you and your baby safe, healthy and happy.

PLUS... Cherokee Women's Health Specialists, PC has seven physicians with offices in Canton and Woodstock. 770-720-7733. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

Modern Counry

Keith Anderson

AUG 7, 2021

Swamp Pop

Marc Broussard

AUG 28, 2021

Visual Arts

IN THE GALLERY

ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS VILLAGE WILL BECOME

WOODSTOCK ARTS AUGUST 1

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

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. “We think of ourselves as a local mini-Make-a-Wish 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.”

Chad Blake with Charles and Doris Beavers. 42

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Special-needs clients and staff of Next Step Ministries enjoying a Braves game through Experiences before the pandemic.

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 driveby 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 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. 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.

Protecting Children from Predators BY CHARLICE BYRD

In today’s brutally divided political environment, where both sides agree on very little, I’d like to think that we can all agree that nothing is more precious than the life of a child. Whether that child is in the nurturing embrace of a loving family, or unfortunately lives without the support and protection of his or her family. Sadly, there are too many children in Georgia who are without a family. Georgia has approximately 13,000 children in foster care each day, with approximately 330 in Cherokee County, some of whom sleep in hotels due to not having a permanent home. In many cases, it’s far worse for these children than just not knowing their family or having a permanent place to live and grow up. The Center for Public Policy of Georgia found that 46.7% of suspected or confirmed female child victims of domestic sex trafficking ran away from a group home or foster care placement. This is heartbreaking. Furthermore, access to social media and cell phones raise the risk of exploitation through recruitment by predators. According to the Child Sexual Exploitation Team, every city in America is under siege by predators seeking to exploit our children. Online access has created a pipeline for them to recruit children through social media sites where juveniles are often seeking innocent interactions. Tactics such as “liking” a photograph and posting “flattering comments” are often a way predators initiate conversation with children. For youth who long to have someone who understands them, predators wait behind the screen to seek out vulnerabilities before exploiting them. Parents and caregivers must keep lines of communication open and know the signs of a child who is involved in one of these predatory relationships. Checking phones daily, to ensure children’s passwords are known, is a critical piece of keeping today’s generation safe. Blocking cash apps, routinely checking unknown numbers from the call log against a reverse lookup and knowing all friends that are communicating with your children are first steps in preventing opportunistic individuals looking for a target. However, direct intervention is only the tip of the spear in this battle against exploitation of children. It is so important to help create and provide safe home environments for children. Providing a safe place to live and the valuable life skills to live a healthy and productive life are vital to keep children safe. Children in foster care are often the most vulnerable, and I believe it is our duty to protect them by helping them overcome severe odds and move forward with strength. I encourage you to get involved in any way you can to support foster children in Cherokee County, and Georgia, and help keep them safe.

Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives. charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov

THE SWEET DELILAH SWIM CLUB Sep 17-19, Sep 24-26

CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec 3-5, Dec 10-12 and Dec 17-19 Coming in 2022

PICASSO MEETS EINSTEIN AT LAPIN AGILE Feb 11-13, Feb 18-20

FAITH COUNTY Apr 22-24, Apr 29-May 1

IN THE RESTROOM AT ROSENBLOOMS Jun 10-12, Jun 17-19

Because CTC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible.

Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.

In May, Bob Meyer boldly shared his throat cancer story with our readers. Bob’s concern for his family, and desire to give his story purpose, were greater than himself. Sadly, Bob’s story didn’t end as we had prayed. His last scheduled surgery was halted when doctors discovered that his cancer had spread too far. Their efforts would be futile. Bob was placed in hospice care and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife, Terry, and daughter Maria.

My daughter and I are deeply grateful and humbled by the tremendous support and generosity from friends and neighbors, known and unknown, who donated to Everyday Angels and our GoFundMe page to help offset the medical expenses from my husband’s 10-month battle with throat cancer. Your kindness to us will never be forgotten and we will pay it forward in the months and years to come. — Blessings, Terry and Maria

”

We also honor the life of a local legend, James Jicha, 86, who passed away from cancer in May. You couldn‘t walk into the Publix in Towne Lake without a warm smile and hug from Mr. Jim. He had worked for Publix for 25 years. His warm smile will be missed by everyone. He lived a long and blessed life, and we are grateful to have been a small part of it.

Jim was a true gentleman. It was such a pleasure to work with him at Publix. He touched the lives of everyone around him and made this world a better place to live, and Publix a better place to work and shop. — Carla McPhee

”

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Bob Meyer

Jim Jicha

As a nonprofit, we hear of many stories of heartbreak. It is our privilege and honor to meet some of the strongest, yet most broken, people during their most difficult seasons of life. We do not like to share negative stories, but we all know that, often, stories don’t end as we hope. We are grateful for the long lives of these two gentlemen. While we wish things were different, we rejoice in the time we had with them and the positive impact they made in our lives and our community. May we all leave this world better than it was when we arrived here. May God bless these sweet families and all of those who grieve great losses. For the month of July, Everyday Angels will continue to assist identified and qualified families with groceries and utilities. Over the months, we also have seen an increase in displaced families and the need for extended-stay hotel costs. We thank you for helping us make a positive difference in your community.

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Don’t Return to Normal, Be Better BY REV. DR. JOSEPH N. COUSIN SR.

Without question, the year 2020 was one of the most memorable on record, and not in a good way. The coronavirus pandemic, otherwise known as COVID-19, turned the entire world upside down. The effects of this devastating pandemic are too numerous to mention, and one of the most glaring is its effect on our everyday lives. We sheltered in place, remained socially distant and were unable to go to many of the places we used to frequent. Now, as more people are being vaccinated and the pandemic slows down, we hear people talking about a return to normal, because they are excited to go back to the way things were before the pandemic. However, whenever I hear someone talk about returning to normal, I caution against this, because I don’t think that we should return to normal. I recently ran across a quote online that read, “Nothing should go back to normal. Normal wasn’t working. If we go back to the way things were, we will have lost the lesson. May we rise up and do better.” In our attempts to rush back to normal, I would advise

that we pay close attention to this quote. We must learn lessons from this season of difficulty. I pray that we have learned from this pandemic, and we will not go back to the way things were. Let’s be better in our treatment of others. Let’s be better in our willingness to cooperate. Let’s be better in our commitment to make this world better. Let’s be better in our striving to end oppression. Let’s be better in our effort to be truly inclusive of others. And, most of all, let’s be better in our commitment to God. Remember, we don’t want a return to normal, because normal wasn’t working. Instead, let’s learn a lesson from this pandemic and strive to return to better. I am excited to see what’s on the other side.

The Rev. Dr. Joseph N. Cousin Sr. is pastor of Allen Temple AME Church in Woodstock and the founding president of the Cherokee County NAACP.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

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. 46

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

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.

Designing a Space That Reflects You BY JULIE FELBER

Too often houses look exactly the same — the same kitchens, same flooring, same fixtures. We can thank trendy decorating styles for this. If you’re like me, you want to add a unique flair to your home so it will stand out, but you might not have an idea of how or where to start. The good news is, it’s not as hard as you think. An effective strategy is starting with something that is special to you and designing around that piece. For example, your great grandmother’s wood chest might be collecting dust in the attic, but it would be a great start to redesigning your space. Or there might be special art that you fell in love with and had to buy, or a statement furniture piece you discovered on a shopping adventure. Whatever the piece may be, make it your central point and design from it by choosing a complementary color palette, style and additional pieces. Take the chest for example. It may need to be stripped and re-stained or painted, and repurposed into a coffee table. You could hang your favorite art piece above your sofa, and pick out throw pillows,

rugs and curtains, drawing from color hues on the canvas. A statement furniture piece could be a thrifted find, a rescue from the curb or a high-end piece found at your favorite shop. Statement furniture can be incorporated practically anywhere in your home, catching your eye the moment you step into the room. Your unique pieces will become conversation starters. Fragments of history and memories shared with others make a house a home, and we are often reminded of them through cherished pieces of furniture, art and decor. Your home should showcase your unique perspective. When we honor a unique piece in our home design, we make our personal style stand out.

Julie Felber and her husband, Blake, work at Felber Home Furnishings and Decor in Woodstock, bringing their love of design (and strong coffee!) to their daily work space.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Recent Home Sales in May List Price Address 435,564 729,999 350,000 430,000 552,900 260,000 399,900 825,000 309,900 328,000 420,000 235,000 549,000 320,000 599,900 395,000 495,000 315,000 275,000 410,000 250,000 289,999 412,000 224,900 799,000 335,000 320,000 699,900 425,000 315,000 288,000 350,000 290,000 249,900 435,000 349,000 425,000 540,000 379,999 330,000 340,000 289,900 425,290 649,000 367,900 359,900 430,000 249,900 285,000 439,900 315,000 299,900 345,000 320,000 338,000 475,000 365,000 285,000 273,900 279,989 390,000 365,000 229,900 389,000 215,000 615,000 329,900 825,000 320,000 359,900

107 Ivey Way 800 Henry Drive 105 O'Hara Drive 189 Neese Farm Drive 196 Foxtail Rd 149 Chickasaw Run 113 Riverside Lane 1495 Ranchwood Trail 807 Hampton Court 204 Highland Village Lane 355 Windsong Way 1359 CHATLEY Way 2656 Hickory Road 526 Drifton Way 108 Wayfair Overlook Drive 119 Haleys Circle 5059 Hickory Hills Drive 323 Burdock Trace 105 Little Brook Drive 2022 Woodside Park Drive 1377 Chatley Way 145 Village Trace 323 Lady Slipper Lane 102 Hillmont Drive 523 Highland Drive 130 Village Trace 346 Weatherstone Place 301 Rocky Creek Overlook 313 Edinburgh Lane 541 Coolsprings Walk 159 Village Trace 347 Acuba View 141 Weatherstone Drive 614 Bluff Drive 1007 Bradshaw Estates Drive 409 Rose Lane 1034 Bradshaw Estates Drive 2505 Wyatt Way 536 Wisteria Drive 131 Village Trace 525 Lazy River Lane 318 Pioneer Circle 402 Hickory Terrace 4062 Hickory Fairway Drive 435 Westchester Way 3058 Trickum Road 193 Neese Farm Drive 119 Apple Valley Drive 139 N River Drive 518 Spring View Drive 525 Drifton Way 130 BRAMBLE OAK Drive 5403 Shotwell Terrace 548 WATERCRESS Drive 369 Arnold Mill Road 326 Melrose Circle 122 Cornerstone Circle 112 River Creek Drive 127 Apple Valley Drive 7012 Woodfield Way 301 Annazanes Place 406 Parkstone Drive 119 Remington Court 418 Towne Valley Drive 307 Knollwood Lane 112 Foxtail Road 119 Northtowne Drive 221 Old Hickory Road 514 Jefferson Drive 308 Cacique Court

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Subdivision/Complex

Enclave at Wiley Bridge None Southern Oaks Evelyn Farms Longleaf Woodstock Indian Wells Woodview Court None Farmington Highland Village Serenade Wellington Manor NONE The Park at Kingsgate Bradshaw Farm Haleys Mill Bradshaw Farm Woodlands Little Brook Estates Bradshaw Farm Wellington Manor The Village At Weatherstone Bradshaw Park Sunnybrook Woodstock Knoll The Village At Weatherstone Weatherstone Estates of Fernwood Creek Wynchase Springfield Place The Village at Weatherstone Cottages of Woodstock Weatherstone None Bradshaw Estates Walnut Creek Bradshaw Estates Oakhurst Walnut Creek Village At Weatherstone River Plantation Pioneer Crossing Hickory Mill Bradshaw Farm Waverly Park Cherokee Evelyn Farms Applewood Little River North Woodview Enclave The Park at Kingsgate Bramble Oak Southlands Woodlands Little River North Wynchase Cornerstone Estates Little River Crossing Applewood RIVER OAKS Woodlands Cornerstone Estates Springfield North Towne Riverchase Longleaf Woodstock North Towne None NOWLIN HALL Mill Creek Crossing

Beds Baths Year Built Sales Price Total Days on Market 3 6 4 4 3 4 2 6 3 3 4 4 3 3 6 3 5 3 3 4 4 3 4 3 6 4 4 6 4 4 3 2 3 3 4 3 3 5 4 4 4 3 4 5 4 2 4 3 3 4 3 4 4 3 3 5 4 4 3 3 4 4 4 5 3 3 3 5 3 4

3 4 3 2 3 2 2 4 2 2 2 3 2 2 6 2 3 2 2 3 2 2 3 2 4 2 2 5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 5 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 6 2 2

2021 1976 1985 2020 2021 1976 2015 2006 2008 2012 2001 1990 1984 2000 2000 2007 1996 2003 1974 1998 1990 2001 2003 1981 2014 2003 1997 2011 2017 1993 2002 2006 1998 1992 2001 2000 2003 2016 2001 2001 2000 1979 2020 1997 1996 2000 2019 1982 1975 2017 2000 1978 1993 2005 1975 2007 2012 1979 1982 1992 2005 2013 1986 1999 1983 2017 1998 1981 1973 1989

435,265 625,000 330,000 430,000 563,145 280,000 410,000 800,000 347,000 345,000 447,000 237,300 549,000 335,000 599,000 420,000 495,000 320,000 300,000 430,000 275,000 293,000 440,000 235,000 835,000 340,000 342,500 756,500 420,000 320,000 291,000 320,000 303,000 275,000 450,000 355,000 425,000 540,000 348,500 340,000 360,000 305,000 425,000 642,000 351,000 420,000 430,000 257,000 292,500 461,500 315,000 313,000 345,000 335,000 345,000 475,000 400,000 308,000 273,900 300,000 419,500 389,000 232,000 399,000 238,000 610,000 330,000 802,000 295,500 370,000

240 229 48 10 242 0 1 5 4 3 4 5 62 4 2 0 22 4 6 1 4 8 5 2 2 4 2 4 3 3 4 9 6 8 4 7 4 6 8 4 5 1 169 22 18 6 11 3 4 3 3 5 4 7 4 2 3 7 3 3 5 3 2 7 3 13 3 10 56 11

School News

Valedictorians, Salutatorians Celebrated at Banquet

The class of 2021 valedictorians and salutatorians were recognized at the 21st annual scholar recognition banquet. The event was attended by the scholars, their parents, the teacher most influential in each scholar’s education, high school principals, and school board and district representatives.

Valedictorians:

Analise Black, Etowah Elizabeth Lawrence, Woodstock Nicholas Audinet, River Ridge Jeremy Jeong, Sequoyah Baker Brown, Cherokee Nathan William Davis, Creekview

Salutatorians:

Sophia Stewart, Etowah Arnav Sharma, Woodstock Aarya Kothari, River Ridge Bradley Gordon, Sequoyah Harrison Russ, Cherokee Koryn Thanh Todd, Creekview

From left, front row: Baker Brown, Koryn Thanh Todd, Sophia Stewart, Aarya Kothari, Jeremy Jeong, Arnav Sharma; back row: Harrison Russ, Nathan William Davis, Analise Black, Nicholas Audinet, Bradley Gordon and Elizabeth Lawrence.

Cherokee County Water Names Coloring Contest Winners

Avery Clanton

Because of you, she will be fed this summer.

Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority held a Drinking Water Week coloring contest, open to grades K-3. Homeschool students and 11 Cherokee County School District elementary schools participated, with nearly 1,000 entries. The winners are:

• Kindergarten

Avery Clanton, Johnston

• 1st grade

Mauvick Carlson, Arnold Mill

• 2nd grade Mauvick Carlson

Rylee Morris, Clayton Elementary

• 3rd grade, grand prize

Your generous contribution will help us serve thousands of children in Cherokee and the north metro.

• 2nd grade honorable mention

EASY WAYS YOUR FAMILY CAN HELP

Riley Turner, R.M. Moore Felicia Untung, Johnston

• 3rd grade honorable mention Felicia Untung

And so will thousands of other children.

Grace Hanner, homeschool, Ball Ground

Donate online, volunteer at www.mustministries.org or mail a check to P.O. Box 1717, Marietta, GA 30061

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

@ the Library Sequoyah Regional Library System www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org

What’s Happening at Your Library?

BY JOHN RODGERS

Have you marked the library’s summer reading program on your July calendar? If not, you’re missing a whole jungle’s worth of fun! Sequoyah Regional Library System’s (SRLS) animal-themed extravaganza, “Tails & Tales,” began on June 1 with a visit from the Georgia AG Experience, a mobile lab filled with STEM-based activities to teach families all about agriculture. That same week, all five SRLS libraries in Cherokee County hosted drive-through safari events featuring a variety of farm animals at the parking lots of local schools. Attendees took selfies, made their best animal sounds and registered for the summer reading program on Beanstack.

Students learn about the importance of agriculture, soil health and potting plants.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Local kids participate in the library’s Georgia AG Experience.

If you haven’t heard, Beanstack is an online portal on the library’s website where readers of all ages can log their summer books, the number of minutes they’ve read, receive reading recommendations, write and read book reviews, and earn rewards based on how many challenges they complete. Hear that, adults? The summer reading program isn’t just for children. And, with the library going fine-free for summer, now’s the best time to visit the library to check out materials and make sure you have your account ready on Beanstack. Download the app, or visit sequoyahregionallibrary.beanstack.org. Don’t worry; the library’s full schedule of free summer programming hasn’t ended yet. In July, SRLS welcomes guests from Southeast Reptile Rescue, Zoo Atlanta, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, juggler extraordinaire Adam Boehmer and more, for a month filled with animal-themed fun that won’t cost you a dime. You can reserve a spot by visiting sequoyahregionallibrary.org/srp and navigating to the word “Calendar.” Select an event you like, and click on the online program registration

Books to Calm Back-to-School Jitters Back-to-school season seems like the most cringeworthy time of year, but it doesn’t have to be. We at Sequoyah Regional Library System have put together a list of available books that might help as we count down to August. Whether you’re nervous about your 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 your face.

Picture Books

• “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López • “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg and Judy Love • “We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” by Ryan T. Higgins form. Each library in Cherokee County is offering programming, so there’s always something for you to do, no matter where you live. Back-to-school season is coming up, and Cherokee County School District and Georgia Cyber Academy students now can use their lunch number to borrow physical and digital materials from SRLS, without the need for a library card, and without overdue fees. During the Back-to-School Gateway, parents and caregivers can enroll their student in the library’s EZ Student Access on the electronic enrollment portal on the Cherokee County School District or Georgia Cyber Academy websites. To get started, head over to sequoyahregionallibrary.org/students.

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

Grades 1-3

• “The 13-Story Treehouse” by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton • “Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea” by Ben Clanton • “Hildafolk” by Luke Pearson

Grades 4-6

• “Invisible Emmie” by Terri Libenson • “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang • “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” by Chris Grabenstein

Teen Books

• “The Best at It” by Maulik Pancholy • “Sorcery of Thorns” by Margaret Rogerson • “We Are Okay” by Nina LaCour

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Around & About JULY

3 Guardians of the Jukebox

will be performing at The Mill on Etowah from 7-11 p.m. Join the fun on the green for food trucks, locally crafted beer and live music. Sponsored by Shottenkirk Automotive Group.

Yoga in the Park is at Brown Park in Canton the

first Saturday of each month through October from 9-10 a.m. The free yoga class is for everyone, beginners to advanced. Please sign up if you plan to attend; waivers must be signed before starting. Information on Horizon Healing Center’s Facebook page.

The Market at The Mill on Etowah is every Tuesday night on the green from 5:30-8:30 p.m., featuring local makers, creators, bakers and artists. Details available on Facebook at The Mill on Etowah page.

A Built to Quit smoking and tobacco cessation course will take place at Northside HospitalCherokee. This class will be held once a week for six weeks, through Aug. 10. Classes are offered during afternoon and evening hours. Register online at www.northside.com, call 404-780-7653 or email smokingcessation@northside.com.

7 Unwind Wednesdays

features food trucks and market night at Veterans Park, the first Wednesday of every month through October from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Follow the Revival Events Group page on Facebook for details.

with 9 TimEvening Tebow An

will be held at First Baptist Church Woodstock at 7 p.m. Bring family and friends for fun, raffle prizes and an inspiring message from Tim Tebow. Presented by Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Tickets available at https:// cherokeefca.org/banquet. Call 770-789-7150, or email Steve Hyland at shyland@fca.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Tradition Car and Truck 10-11 Southern Show

will be at Etowah River Park from 8 a.m. Saturday to 3 p.m. Sunday. All makes and models are welcome. Visit www.southerntradition.bigcartel.com for registration and more information.

12 Inaugural First Responders Golf Classic

is at Woodmont Golf and Country Club. Registration begins at 8 a.m. All proceeds support the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Kennesaw State University WellStar School of Nursing. Visit www.cherokeechamber.com/first-responders-golf-classic for the full schedule of events.

Unlabeling Your Brand: creating your 14 authentic brand and style workshop An

will be held in building A, classroom 207 of the Chattahoochee Tech campus in Woodstock from noon-1 p.m. It’s free, open to the public and particularly useful for business owners. It also will be streamed live on several platforms. Register at https://unlabelingyourbrand.com/.

A Summer Block Party will be held 11 a.m.4 p.m. on Gilmer Ferry Road in Ball Ground, featuring food from Wilkes Meat Market and Dominic’s Food Truck, live music by Ben Jammin, and many vendors and small businesses.

Market at Menagerie on Main is in downtown Canton from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit the artist’s market, and grab a drink from one of the local restaurants or venues. More details on Facebook.

23 Jimmy Wayne: A Night of Story and Song

will be at Timbers on Etowah at The Mill in Canton from 7-9 p.m. Seating is limited, and there is a suggested donation of $75 per seat to support Goshen Valley foster youth. RSVP at http://evite.me/4MJANadj8G and donate at goshenvalley.org/donate. More details on Facebook.

24 Knees 5K

The 10th annual Collins Dixon Bend Your will begin at 7 a.m. at Teasley Middle School. Join the race and celebrate the life and legacy of Collins Dixon. Funds raised will go to families in North Georgia with pediatric cancer. Register at runsignup.com/ Race/GA/Canton/BendYourKnees5k.

Tim Tebow

A Discover Paddleboarding program will be at Murph’s Surf off Bells Ferry Road in Canton from 9-11 a.m. Participants will learn about water safety and paddleboarding basics on Allatoona Lake. Fun for the whole family and a cool way to enjoy the great outdoors in the heat of the summer. Cost is $79 per person. Visit the Woodstock Parks and Rec website to register, https://bit.ly/3cqRBlf.

AUGUST

The 2021 Lake Allatoona Poker Run, benefiting Folds of Honor, is hosted by the Lake Allatoona Association. This is not a race, and a vessel is not required. You may purchase a hand and select your cards at the table. Registration and details are available at https://lake-allatoona-association.square.site.

The 8th annual Chick-fil-A Cherokee County Moo’ve It 5K, a fundraiser for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Special Olympics, will take place at Etowah River Park in Canton. The 5k begins at 8 a.m. Visit www.cfamooveit.com for a full schedule and to register.

WOODSTOCK ARTS July 7-21

www.elmstreetarts.org

Junie B. Jones the musical follows the first day of first grade from the perspective of a quirky student. Recommended for all audiences.

July 8-Sept. 5

Women’s Work: New Takes on Textile Art is an

exhibit in the Reeves House that will explore female-led and innovative approaches to textile and fiber arts.

July 10-24

The Lasting Laugh is a comedy series that brings in two Atlanta-based comedians monthly with Jessica It’s All Good as the host. Recommended for ages 12+ (content).

WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS Join Northside Hospital experts for a weekly virtual health presentation every Wednesday at noon. Visit www.northside.com/community-wellness/classes-events for registration.

Photo courtesy of David Ruff.

WOODSTOCK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater. More details at www.woodstockconcertseries.com.

July 9: The Ultimate Queen Celebration with Marc Martel Aug. 14: Steep Canyon Rangers Sept. 18: Christopher Cross Sept. 25: Rumours, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band LANTERN SERIES

At the Elm Street Event Green in Woodstock; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.elmstreetarts.org.

July 17: Scott Mulvahill July 31: JigJam Aug. 7: Keith Anderson Aug. 28: Marc Broussard Sept. 25: The Black Market Trust Oct. 16: We Banjo 3 Oct. 30: Argonaut & Wasp

July 14: Dr. Mike Hulse, North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists

July 21: Dr. Nathaniel Lytle, Bariatric Innovations of Atlanta and General Surgery

July 28: Dr. Cheney Wilson, Northside Vascular Surgery FARMERS MARKETS Woodstock’s Farm. Fresh. Market.

Now open for the season on Market Street. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-noon. Saturdays through Dec. 18. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.

Farmers Market at River Church 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through November at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.

Canton Farmers Market

Now open in Brown Park. Continues weekly, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 16. Details available at www.cantonga.gov.

Waleska Farmers Market

Runs until Nov. 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Heritage Fellowship Baptist Church, 3615 Reinhardt College Pkwy. 404-805-7468.

Ball Ground Farmer’s & Maker’s Market

Every other Saturday until Oct. 16, 8 a.m.-noon City Park in Ball Ground. On Facebook.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Advertisers

For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com

July 2021

ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com

BUSINESS SUPPORT

FUNERAL SERVICES

Atlanta Challenge Team Building, Justin Kier 404-848-1001 www.atlantachallenge.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Express Vets 678-397-7377 www.expressvets.com

Express Pack N Ship 678-504-5676 www.expresspacknships.com Innovation Spot, The 770-262-3668 www.theinnovationspot.com

INWDSTK inwdstk.org/events

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

Woodstock Business Club

Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com

Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1 (675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com

Myst Power Washing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com

ANIMALS/PETS

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA (833-534-2542) www.gatrialattorney.com

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

AUTOMOTIVE Hardline Customs 770-675-8115 www.hardlineind.com Polished Peach Car Wash 770-592-8102 www.polishedpeachcarwash.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

Dentistry for Woodstock, Dr. Bruce Fink 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com EDUCATION/TRAINING/LESSONS Aria Music Studios 678-926-4602 www.ariamusicstudios.com

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Courier Express 678-626-4132 www.courierexpress.net

HAIR SALON élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com

Rhino Restoration 678-720-3565 www.rhino-roofs.com

That’s My Patio/That’s My Pergola www.thatmypatio.com www.thatsmypergola.com

INSURANCE 39

Insurance PM, Monica Landers 470-601-7283

PHOTOGRAPHY

FINANCIAL SERVICES 33

Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

HOME AND GARDEN

DENTAL/ORTHODONTICS

Edward Jones Sarah K. Kendall 37 770-720-6245 www.edwardjones.com/sarah-kendall Goodwin Investment Advisory 678-741-2370 www.godwininvestment.com

Brittany Weir Photography 678-514-9267

Maniac Agency hello@maniac.agency

REAL ESTATE& RELATED SERVICES

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Atlanta Communities, Hornes Group Cover, 28-29 Dianna Hornes, 404-793-3312 www.hornesgroup.com Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomlinson Team, The www.thetomlinsonteam.com Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com Century 21 Celina Meador C: 361-463-6170 O: 770-640-6800

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Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Governors MedSpa and Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

13, 39

RESTAURANTS/FOOD

J.D.'s on the Lake 770-213-4127 www.jdsbbq.com

Homeowners Financial Group The Dean Team 21 470-863-7070 www.homeownersfg.com/location/canton

Susto's Taco Bar Restaurant: 678-400-8131 Catering: 678-400-8160 www.sustostacobar.com

Keller Williams, The Premier Group 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com

Your Pie Woodstock 770-627-2072 yourpie.com/locations/woodstock/

Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com

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Southern Sky Home Outlet 678-842-8411 www.southernskyoutlet.com

SENIOR LIVING St. George Village 678-987-0410, 404-558-6108 www.stgeorgevillage.org

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

VEHICLE SALES

RETAILERS Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

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Table Top Dan 678-503-8758 www.tabletopdan.com

7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant 21 www.7tequilasmexicanrestaurant.com 55

Felber Home Furnishings and Decor 770-693-6985

Golf Cars of Canton 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. 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.

Jerry King J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | July 2021

Beth Fornuto Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com

Heather Stevens Joyful Day Photography 678-947-1200 www.joyfuldayphoto.com

Joseph Baum Maniac Agency www.maniacagency.com

7-21 AroundWoodstock webfinal.pdf

Articles inside

Community Calendar

Recent Home Sales

Julie Felber

Rev. Joseph Cousin

Everyday Angels

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Barbara Jacoby

Susan Schulz

Noteworthy

Harry Johnston

Pages 28

Asher Kelsey

Cherokee Office of Economic Development

Stacy Brown

Teddy the Spaz Man

Local News

Around Woodstock

Justin Spainhour-Roth