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

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TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Contents

Contributors

July 2021

64 Stacy Brown

36 Charlice Byrd

14 Cherokee Office of

Your Pie Woodstock

Economic Development PHOTO BY ABIGAIL PEYTON

On the Cover

Woodstock’s newest pizza restaurant offers customers a choice of 40 toppings, pasta dishes, paninis and salads, and includes gluten-free options.

Pages 40 & 41

Cover photo by Joyful Day Photography

Blast from the Past

47 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

61 Rev. Joseph Cousin 37 Julie Felber

57 Greg Fozeno

62 Barbara Jacoby

30 Harry Johnston 23 Asher Kelsey

50 Rob Macmillan

As we celebrate our 2021 graduates, we look back to the year the TowneLaker was founded.

44 John Rodgers

20 Teddy the Spaz Man

Grillin’ and Chillin’

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

52 Jennifer Ruscilli 38 Susan Schulz

34 Justin Spainhour-Roth 54 Kevin Williams

In Every Issue

4 Around Towne 8 Local News

26 Noteworthy

31 County Commission Highlights 32 Celebrations

42 Everyday Angels 44 Library Events

46 Towne Lake Dining Guide 50 Rob’s Rescues 58 School News

66 Community Calendar 68 Recent Home Sales

70 Cherokee Photography Club

What’s in a Name?

With the opening of the Reeves House, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village is rebranding to become Woodstock Arts.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

72 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 74 Community of Faith 76 Clubs & Orgs

78 Directory of Advertisers

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Around Towne 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

What’s Coming

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

Charlice Byrd, a contributing writer who represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives, captured this beautiful image during Woodstock’s Memorial Day commemoration. Guest speaker Sergeant at Arms Theo Williams, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), was one of four who released doves at the end of the ceremony.

Purple Mattress Outlet will open at

The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. Opening date wasn’t available at press time.

Your Serve Tennis is opening at 134 Woodstock Square Ave., Suite 415. An opening date wasn’t available at press time. For more information about the company, visit www.yourserve.com.

What’s Growing

Jaipur Living, a provider of handmade rugs and home

furnishings, has begun a 192,072-square-foot expansion to its existing 179,727-square-foot headquarters in the Cherokee 75 Corporate Park in Southwest Cherokee. The project is expected to create 64 jobs.

What’s Back

Gobble Jog, a Thanksgiving tradition for many families, will return to Marietta Square in November. The annual event, benefiting MUST Ministries, is one of the largest 10K races in the country, with more than 10,000 runners. MUST serves Cherokee County residents from its Canton office, on Brown Industrial Boulevard. For more information, visit www.gobblejog.org.

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TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

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 “Working with the TowneLaker magazine has been an excellent experience for our business. Their staff is extremely professional, and the quality of their work is top-tier. We received a substantial amount of new business as a result of being on the front cover of the magazine. I wholeheartedly recommend the TowneLaker's platform as an opportunity for businesses small and large to build your local reputation and to get the attention of new and existing customers!” — Tim McWhirter, Canton Termite & Pest Control, Inc.

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!

TowneLakerMagazine @Townelaker townelakermagazine

www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | July 2021

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to help 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 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,620 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 780 are placed in racks in the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright 2021. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 26, Issue 2

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | 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. 8

TOWNELAKER | 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

TOWNELAKER | 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.

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TOWNELAKER | 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. 12

TOWNELAKER | 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.”

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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. 14

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Congrats

2021 GRADUATES!

Greer McKenzie Faith Anderson, Etowah.

Mariah Holt graduated at Wildwood Kindergarten.

ETOWAH Class of 1996

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

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Caroline Kapcsos and Braden Bane, Etowah High School

Etowah grad Max von Seeger.

Amanda Buchheit, Erin Whalen, Holly Kate O’Brien, Riley Corona, Kali Terza, Ally Zazzara, Alina Frederick graduated from Etowah.

ETOWAH Class of 1996

Etowah grads John Weathers and Ally Zazzara.

Abby Modlinski, Payton Shillcutt and Devin Varnado from Etowah.

Etowah grad Tessa Marie Liles.

Etowah grads Athan Ribley, Colby Flaig and Cole Ellis. TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRITTANY WEIR PHOTOGRAPHY

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. 20

TOWNELAKER | 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. TOWNELAKER | 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. 24

TOWNELAKER | 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. TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Ephram Key with piano teacher Anna Lee Moss.

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1 8 0 Tow ne L a ke P a r k w ay · Wo o d s t o c k , G A 3 01 8 8 · 7 70 -4 8 5- 5 23 6 · G y r o A e g e a nG r i l l .c om TOWNELAKER | 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

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Board of Commissioners

From the June 1 meeting. Visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC for the full minutes and a schedule of upcoming meetings.

Cherokee County is taking time to absorb and address public comments received during a hearing on a proposed Short-Term Rental Ordinance. At its June 1 meeting, the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved tabling the decision until the first meeting in July, giving more time for research and review of the draft ordinance. The ordinance is geared at regulating the use of home rentals for parties and short stays by non-residents. Several residents of Lake Arrowhead and Ball Ground shared their concerns with commissioners about short-term rentals, citing experience in their neighborhoods. Some of the complaints included noise, littering and trespassing. A short-term rental owner spoke, saying he welcomed the regulations and would be happy to go through the process to secure a certificate for his property. Commissioners spent about 30 minutes listening to public comment during the hearing, and discussed possible edits to the draft ordinance including the number of people allowed to stay per bedroom, at what age children would be considered in that count, special events at a short-term rental and at what point should a certificate be revoked for failure to comply. “We are on the right track. Do we have it nailed? I’m not sure,” Chairman Harry Johnston said after the public hearing. “These rentals are allowed now because we don’t prohibit them. This ordinance would be a first layer of regulation that would require licensing that could be revoked due to violation.” Commissioners also heard a presentation during the work session before the regular meeting regarding setting the millage rate for the 2022 fiscal year. Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Marquis presented the Finance Department’s suggested millage rate of 8.938, slightly down from the current rate of 8.965. The full rate is made up of Maintenance and Operations at 5.212 mills, Fire Tax at 3.292 and the Parks Bond at 0.434. One mill is equal to $1 per $1,000 of assessed value. The average home value of $303,600 with a standard homestead exemption would see a FY2022 county tax bill of $1,059.37. The county tax bill also includes the Cherokee County School District taxes, which are not controlled by the Board of Commissioners. The Board will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. July 6, and two more public hearings at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. July 20. Adoption is expected July 20. All meetings are expected to take place at the Cherokee County Administration Building, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton.

In other business, Commissioners:

• Read a proclamation in honor of Thomas H. Kaiser who passed away May 27. Kaiser served in the U.S. Air Force, served as the American Legion Commander, was a member of the Moose Lodge and served as a volunteer parent/adviser at Cherokee High School since 1995. He was a founding member of the Clayton House and was responsible for the grand American flag display along Ga. 20 for the annual God and Country Rally.

Harry Johnston, left, and the family of the late Thomas H. Kaiser: son Thomas J. Kaiser, and grandchildren, Steven and Caroline Kaiser.

• Approved the rezoning request from Quintus Development to rezone 46.098 acres on Lakeside Drive from General Commercial and R-20 to RM-10 for apartments and townhomes with conditions. • Approved a request by Lori C. Postal to rezone 4.58 acres in the 200 block of Arbor Hill Road from R-80 to General Agriculture for a horse barn and riding arena. • Approved a request by Sentry Land Management to rezone 1.35 acres at 6065 Highway 92 from neighborhood commercial to general commercial to use the existing building for a NAPA Auto Parts Store. • Accepted a withdrawal request from Dylan Barnett for a Special Use Permit for a training, boarding and daycare facility for dogs and cats at 6642 E. Cherokee Drive. . • Agreed to send a letter of support to the city of Ball Ground related to a request by Georgia Marble/Lee Lusk to annex 157 acres west of I-575 along Sharp Mountain Creek for residential and farm uses. The Board directed Planning Manager Margaret Stallings to include concerns related to various development options in the letter. • Agreed to send a letter of support to the city of Ball Ground related to a request by Harris Trust/Lee Lusk to annex 184 acres along I-575 and Mineral Springs Road for residential and farm uses. The Board directed Stallings to include concerns related to various development options in the letter. • Approved an intergovernmental agreement with Holly Springs for the East Cherokee Drive and Bradshaw Lane Resurfacing Project. • Approved an agreement with Reinhardt University for access to the county’s 800 MHz radio system. Reinhardt will be invoiced for the cost. • Approved the purchase of a service truck for the fire department from Fireline for $598,850. The purchase is covered through SPLOST funds. • Approved a real estate contract to sell the Cherokee County School District, 40.7 acres on Ga. 372 for $40,000 per acre. TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

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TOWNELAKER | 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. 34

TOWNELAKER | 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. TOWNELAKER | July 2021

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.

Parents and caregivers must keep lines of communication open ...

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

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

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.

TOWNELAKER | 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.

Experiences Foundation recently delivered recess bags to Avery Elementary students. 38

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

“We think of ourselves as a local mini-Make-aWish meets Big Brothers, Big Sisters,” Blake said. “We offer a wide variety of events and programs, helping those who are struggling in our own circle of friends and those recommended through other community nonprofits. We have been doing ‘experiences’ that include mission trips for over 15 years, but made the foundation an official nonprofit in 2018. We want to make dreams come true, while lending a helping hand to do so.” Prior to the global pandemic shutdown, many experiences offered were sports-oriented. For example, they took special-needs clients and staff of Next Step Ministries in Woodstock to an Atlanta Braves game, which included lunch and snacks. “Everyone had such a wonderful time, and the staff was very appreciative of all [Experiences Foundation] did to make it run smoothly,” said Lori Baker, Next Step’s director. Without sporting events, the foundation made adjustments and got creative in serving the community. On one recent project, Experiences supplied an outdoor classroom with recess bags and picnic tables to enhance the students’ recess at Avery Elementary. Experiences also organized a drive-by parade to honor Aden Martinez, a young boy with a brain tumor. “I am at a loss for words,” his mother Sandy said after the event. “Thank you doesn’t sound like

Left, special-needs clients and staff of Next Step Ministries enjoying a Braves game through Experiences before the pandemic. Below, Chad Blake with Charles and Doris Beavers.

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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

The Seyden family, from left: baby Hazel, Allyson, Dylan, Arnie, Amanda and Jenna. Photo by Joyful Day Photography.

Your Pie Family Grows With New Woodstock Location

Arnie‌and Jenna Seyden’s family has grown recently; they’ve added 22 new members, in fact. But we’re not talking about their biological family. The Seydens, owners of Your Pie Canton, just opened a restaurant on Ridgewalk Parkway in Woodstock, with a new crew of employees they value, like family. “We are proud to be opening our second location in Woodstock during a time that is so difficult in the restaurant industry,” Arnie said. “We‌ ‌attribute‌ ‌this‌ ‌to‌ ‌our‌ ‌solid‌ ‌belief‌ ‌in‌ ‌family‌ ‌and‌ ‌to‌ ‌the‌ ‌many‌ ‌wonderful‌ ‌staff‌ ‌members‌ ‌who‌ ‌have‌ ‌become‌ ‌members‌ ‌of‌ ‌our‌ ‌family. Without‌ ‌our‌ ‌constant‌ ‌emphasis‌ ‌on‌ ‌family‌ ‌atmosphere,‌ ‌none‌ ‌of‌ ‌our ‌growth‌ ‌would‌ ‌be‌ ‌possible.‌”‌ 40

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

The Seydens weathered the COVID-19 storm in Canton by focusing their energies on streamlining and perfecting curbside,‌ ‌to-go‌ ‌and‌ ‌delivery‌ ‌capabilities.‌ The Woodstock store offers those services as well, along with the tasty menu options made with fresh ingredients, Italian-style cooking and the positive vibes that are evident among employees.

All In The Family

Your Pie gives the Seyden family a chance to work together. Arnie and Jenna have 60 years’ combined experience owning businesses. Daughter Amanda has degrees in marketing and sales and was general manager of a local pizza restaurant for many years. Son Dylan has restaurant management experience and studied business in

college. Youngest daughter Allyson, a student, has worked in the food service industry for several years and handles all social media marketing. The family dynamics stretch beyond the five Seydens. With a group of highly energetic, young adults on staff, Arnie and Jenna find themselves encouraging and mentoring their youthful employees. Between both restaurants, the Seydens ‌employ‌‌more than ‌40‌ ‌people‌ ‌ranging‌ ‌from‌ ‌high‌ ‌schoolers‌ ‌to‌ ‌working‌ ‌moms‌ ‌and‌ ‌dads‌ ‌from‌ ‌Cherokee County.‌ ‌ “It‌ ‌is‌ ‌truly‌ ‌a‌ ‌pleasure‌ ‌to‌ ‌watch‌ ‌the‌ ‌growth‌ ‌in‌ ‌personality‌ ‌and‌ ‌confidence‌ ‌of‌ ‌all‌ ‌of‌ ‌our‌ ‌team.‌ For‌ ‌many‌ ‌of‌ ‌our‌ ‌kids,‌ ‌it’s‌ ‌their‌ ‌first‌ ‌job.‌ Watching‌ ‌them‌ ‌embrace‌ ‌learning‌ ‌and‌ ‌truly‌ ‌have‌ ‌fun‌ ‌at‌ ‌work‌ ‌is‌ ‌a‌ ‌success‌ ‌all‌ ‌in‌ ‌its‌ ‌own,” he said.

Sponsore

Tasty Menu Options

Your Pie offers pizzas with a choice of 40 toppings; regular, cauliflower or gluten-free crusts; and other entrées, including pasta dishes and paninis. Gluten-free entrées are prepared in the back of the house, separate from the other ingredients so there’s no chance of contamination. There’s one thing Arnie Seyden can say without reservation: satisfaction is guaranteed for every customer. “Guests don’t have to compromise to order exactly what they want, because all orders are individually-sized. Each guest can come in and build their meals exactly how they like,” Seyden said.

Fresh, Local Ingredients

Produce from growers in Georgia, northern Alabama and the Carolinas is delivered twice weekly. The ingredients are chopped and prepared daily in the restaurant’s kitchen. Pizzas are individualized through the restaurant’s “down-the-line” style arrangement of fresh foods — from the standard pepperoni, olives and sausage to the more unique buffalo sauce, feta and artichokes. Customers can choose as many toppings as they want, at one price. However, Seyden recommends no more than five or six toppings so the pizza will cook properly.

Authentic Italian Touches

Each ‌pizza,‌ ‌pasta‌ ‌dish and‌ ‌panini is cooked‌ ‌in‌ ‌a‌ ‌brick‌ ‌oven‌ ‌in‌ ‌the‌ ‌traditional‌ ‌Italian‌ ‌way‌ ‌of‌ ‌preparing‌ ‌a‌ ‌meal.‌‌This step to create the perfect pizza reflects the way Your Pie founders believe pizza should be made: from scratch dough that’s hand-tossed and baked in a brick oven. The advantages of using a brick oven are numerous: shorter cooking times in 550-600 degree temperatures, a unique flavor that sears into the crust, and evenly distributed heat. Overall, it creates a nongreasy entrée that’s better tasting than those cooked in conventional pizza ovens, Seyden said.

Athens, and emphasizes community support for each franchise. The soft opening in Woodstock raised more than $6,500 for the Goshen Valley Foundation, a nonprofit that supports foster children. Other events will be held to raise funds for MUST Ministries and local schools. First responders, including local and county police and fire personnel, as well as EMTs, are given uniform discounts. Seyden supports other local businesses by engaging with community craft breweries, signage, entertainment and audio-visual companies. “We are proud to be in Woodstock, and our store reflects our love of this community. Everyone that works with us is an extended part of this family as well,” he said. “Jenna and I have lived in the Canton/Woodstock community for 20 years, and raised our family here. We are extremely excited to open our newest Your Pie location. Those of you who have visited our Canton store know that our family is dedicated to the highest quality product and service. We look forward to providing this same special environment in Woodstock and welcome you all to our extended Your Pie family. From our family to yours, we hope to see you soon.”

The Lineage pizza, and caprese salad are among the choices at Your Pie. Food photos by Abigail Peyton.

285‌ ‌Ridgewalk‌ ‌Parkway‌ ‌ 770-627-2072‌ ‌ https://yourpie.com/locations/ woodstock/‌ ‌ On Facebook, Instagram

A Community Focus

Supporting local nonprofits and businesses is important to Seyden and the Your Pie enterprise. The Georgiabased company was founded in 2008 in

ed Content

Dylan Seyden manning the brick oven. Photo by Joyful Day Photography. TOWNELAKER | 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

”

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | 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.

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

TOWNELAKER | 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

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill

Johnny’s Pizza

Cheeseburger Bobby’s

Kani House

Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 www.cancunmexicangrill.net American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 www.cheeseburgerbobbys.com

China Fun

Chinese 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671 www.chinafunwoodstock.com

Donovan’s Irish Cobbler American Irish 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763 www.donovansirishcobbler.com

El Ranchero

Mexican 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 www.elranchero8.com

Family Tradition

Homestyle Cooking 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885 www.familytradition.net

GAMEDAY Fresh Grill American/Burgers 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754 www.gamedayfresh.com

Izumi Asian Bistro

Thai/Sushi/Chinese 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899 www.iloveizumi.com

J.D.’s Bar-B-Que

Barbeque 6426 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 160 678-445-7730 www.jdsbbq.com

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 www.johnnyspizza.com Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 www.kanihouse.com

Keegan's Irish Pub

Irish/Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 770-627-4393 www.keegansirishpub.net

KPOP BBQ and Bar Korean BBQ 1105 Parkside Lane 770-485-3055

La Parrilla

Mexican 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606 www.laparrilla.com

LongHorn

Steakhouse 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494 www.longhornsteakhouse.com

Maple Street Biscuit Co. Southern 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, #160 678-903-2161 www.maplestreetbiscuits.com

Mellow Mushroom

Pizza/Pasta 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331 www.mellowmushroom.com

NaNa Thai Eatery

Thai 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy. Suite 110 770 -485-6008

NY Style Deli & Pizza Pizza/Subs/ Bakery 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004 www.pizzabymansi.com

Panera Bread

Bakery/Soups/Sandwiches 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809 www.panerabread.com

Peking & Tokyo

Chinese/Japanese 200 Parkbrooke Drive, #160 770-591-8858 www.pekingandtokyoga.com

Song’s Garden

Chinese 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #320 770-928-8387 www.songsgarden.com

Tavern at Towne Lake

American 1003 Towne Lake Hills East 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com

The Place

Bar/Grill 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901 www.theplacebargrill.com

Tuscany

Italian 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888 www.mytuscanyrestaurant.com

Volcano Steak & Sushi Asian 2990 Eagle Drive, #100, 101 678-498-7888 www.volcanowoodstock.com

WOW Pho & Grill

Vietnamese 6242 Bells Ferry Road, #118 678-383-6099 On Facebook at: Wow Pho & Grill

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 TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Ask The Doctors

Osteoarthritis

The most common chronic joint condition, it often is known as the “wear and tear” disease. It occurs when the protective cartilage between two bones wears down and causes the cartilage to break down. Joint pain symptoms, such as pain and stiffness, are most commonly reported. Although there is no known cure, there are ways to alleviate pain and discomfort, such as physical therapy.

DR. VICTOR CHEN

DR. FORREST POWERS

1. What are the symptoms?

1. How can I reverse osteoarthritis?

Dr. Victor Chen is a board-certified physician in rheumatology, and he completed his fellowship at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida. He specializes in treating and managing diseases of the joints, muscles, bones and immune system.

Joint pain and functional impairment often develop slowly and worsen over time, and include loss of flexibility, grating sensation and swelling.

2. What joints are affected?

The most common joints affected by osteoarthritis are knees, hips, hands and spine. Other affected joints include shoulders, elbows, ankles and feet.

3. How is it diagnosed?

Osteoarthritis is diagnosed by medical history, physical exam and diagnostic tests. During the physical exam, joints are examined for tenderness, swelling, redness and flexibility. Diagnostic tests include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), blood tests and joint fluid analysis.

• X-rays. Cartilage doesn’t show up on X-ray images,

but cartilage loss is revealed by a narrowing of the space between the bones in your joint, and can show bone spurs.

• MRIs. An MRI can produce detailed images of bone and soft tissues, including cartilage. An MRI commonly isn’t needed to diagnose osteoarthritis, but can help provide more information in complex cases. • Blood tests. Although there’s no blood test for

osteoarthritis, certain tests can help rule out other causes of joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

• Joint fluid analysis. Fluid from an affected joint is

tested for inflammation, and can rule out gout or infection.

SUBMITTED BY NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Dr. Forrest Powers completed his fellowship in rheumatology at Medical University of South Carolina, and is board-certified in internal medicine and rheumatology. He specializes in treating rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, gout, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and more.

There are no therapies available to reverse or slow osteoarthritis at this time; however, there are a variety of ways to alleviate pain. Typically, physical therapy is recommended to strengthen the muscles. And, medical therapy involves taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. Supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine, or creams and rubs like capsaicin cream and menthol cream, also may be prescribed. If osteoarthritis is found in the knee, hyaluronic acid injection (viscosupplementation) can help relieve pain. At times, especially in the larger joints, joint replacement surgery can help significantly.

foods or other triggers 2. What should I avoid?

There are no known foods that cause osteoarthritis. For your overall health, it’s recommended to eat as little processed food as possible. Being overweight will place more pressure on joints, but weight loss can help significantly with joint pain.

are the strongest natural 3. What anti-inflammatories?

There are no clinically proven natural therapies for osteoarthritis, but turmeric and ginger have natural properties to reduce inflammation, and they often are recommended.

TOWNELAKER | 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. 50

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Let’s Celebrate Pollinators! BY JENNIFER RUSCILLI, CHEROKEE COUNTY MASTER GARDENER

June and July mark the beginning of summer, but these months also are special because they mark the time to honor our pollinators. By this time every year, a hummingbird visits my house, right on cue, so I want to make sure I have lots of plants to attract these birds and other pollinators. Pollinators play an important role on Earth. Seventy-five percent of flowering plants on our planet need pollinators. Without them, we would not have most of the food we eat, or crops we grow. Did you know that one out of three bites of food we eat can be attributed to pollinators? Pollinators need us to create a habitat for their survival and protect that habitat, just like we need them to survive. So, what are pollinators, and how many do you know? A pollinator moves pollen from one part of a flower to another. The first pollinator that comes to mind is probably the bee, but there are many other pollinators including butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, bats, beetles, wasps, flies, small mammals and ants. Most of these pollinators are insects, but birds and mammals visit flowers and carry pollen, too. Even the wind plays an important role as a pollinator for our agricultural crops.

Butterflies, such as this swallowtail, serve as pollinators for flowers and plants. 52

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Hummingbirds are pollinators that are attracted to red, funnel-shaped flowers.

Thinking about the pollinators mentioned, you might know that some aren’t always visible during the daytime. That means we do have day and nighttime pollinators. Take moths for example: many of their pollen sources are blooming at night. These plants often have a pale color and sweet scent. Although many moths pollinate at night, the hummingbird moth is active during the day. They are a bird-like moth and have amazing flight maneuvers. You will hear them before you see them. And if you are a fan of agave, thank the bat, who prefers musty scents emitted at night. Visit https://gapp.org/ for more information about bats as pollinators. The remaining pollinators can primarily be seen during the day. The ant isn’t a strong pollinator, but does aid in seed dispersal for native plants that prefer shade. Beetles rely on their sense of smell to find the flowers they like, which have spicy, sweet or fermented scents. Hummingbirds are attracted to red, funnel-shaped flowers. Wasps prefer flowers that have shallow blooms of all colors, shapes and sizes. Lastly, bees are attracted to flowers that are yellow, blue, purple or white. They can

even see ultraviolet patterns on petals. June and July are active months with two events. Pollinator Week was celebrated this year from June 21-27. Visit www.pollinator.org for more information. Moth Week is celebrated July 17-21. Visit http:// nationalmothweek.org for more information and how to “moth.” There are activities you can plan with kids to attract and observe moths at night. Most pollinators thrive in a native plant environment. Visit https://secure. caes.uga.edu/extension/publications/ files/pdf/B%201349_1.PDF to learn more about gardening. A pollinator quiz can be found on the second page of our June/July 2019 newsletter https://cherokeemastergardenersinc. wildapricot.org/resources/Newsletters/ JuneJulyNews19%20(2).pdf. See how many you can match. Visit https://cherokeemastergardenersinc. wildapricot.org/ to view the June/ July 2021 newsletter and article on pollinators. Be sure to add a new native plant every year to celebrate pollinators. And join us for the Great Georgia Pollinator Census Count on Aug. 20 and 21.

Jennifer Ruscilli is a Master Gardener, Master Naturalist and Master Birder. The Towne Lake resident enjoys birds, begonias, bog plants, bugs and finding new plants on rescues.

EST. 1961-

PEARLE OOVISION . Woodstock

At your Pearle Vision Woodstock, we're proud to offer your entire family comprehensive eye care and the widest selection of performance and designer frames from brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Vogue, and Coach. WE WORK WITH ALL MAJOR HEALTH & VISION PLANS AND WELCOME YOUR CURRENT PRESCRIPTION

PEARLE OOVISION'" -

-EST. 1961-

Woodstock

The Colonnade at Towne Lake 2360 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 790-0000 Locally Owned and Operated

WE'LL COVER

THE COST - OFYOUR -

EYE EXAM*

Applied to your complete pair purchase

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Eye exams available at the independent doctor of optometry at or next to Pearle Vision. Doctors in some states are employed by Pearle Vision. *Receive an eye exam from a licensed Doctor of Optometry and receive a discount equal to your out-of-pocket or insurance co-pay expense on the purchase of a complete pair (frame and lenses). Discount not to exceed $150. May be combined with any vision care or insurance plans/benefits. Not combinable with additional promotional offers. Excludes certain brands including Michael Kors, Costa, and Varilux lenses. May exclude Ray-Ban and Oakley. Valid eyeglass purchase required. Valid eye exam receipt required from 1/1/2021 to present. Valid at Pearle Vision Woodstock. See store for details. Offer ends 7/31/21. ©2021 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved. **Coupon required at time of purchase. Save 40% off a complete pair (frame and lenses) of eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses. Valid prescription required. Cannot be combined with vision care or insurance plans/benefits, any store offer or discount. Excludes certain brands including Michael Kors, Retail Collection, Maui Jim, Costa, and Varilux lenses. May exclude Ray-Ban and Oakley. Not valid on previous purchases, contact lenses, accessories, readers, or non-prescription sunglasses. Discount off tag price. Savings applied to lenses. Valid at Pearle Vision Woodstock. Taxes not included. Void where prohibited. Some restrictions may apply. See store for details. Limit one coupon per customer. No cash value. Offer ends 7/31/21. ©2021 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved. E30920.012 TOWNELAKER | July 2021

What KIND of Year Are You Having? The Year of Kindness Continues

Aroundabout Local Media checked in with Kevin Williams, who led us in a challenge to show kindness in 2021. We thought it was time for a mid-year checkup. How have you been showing kindness so far? If you f ind your enthusiasm has waned, let Kevin inspire you again. Let’s head into the rest of 2021 with a renewed emphasis on showing care, concern and kindness to our family, friends and neighbors. BY KEVIN WILLIAMS

How are things going for you? I want to encourage you to continue on the path of practicing kindness. It requires a daily renewal of the mind. Approach each day with buckets of courage to bring a mindset of kindness. I have worked in the hospitality business for nearly 30 years, with the majority of it in the Chick-fil-A restaurant business in Canton. My goal has been to learn and teach my team members how to build relationships by treating guests and fellow team members as individuals who matter, not just transactions in a business. Learning how to serve kindness is a pursuit I have gotten to dig deep into, especially as we’ve worked to overcome the challenges of the pandemic. Kindness can allow a 16-year-old fast-food employee to discover joy by putting their energy

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

into lifting up customers rather than just taking orders. It can allow young couples to get to know neighbors in their community who are completely different from themselves. It can redirect each of us to remove negative distractions (often found on social media) that occupy our minds, and redirect those energies into volunteering at a community organization. We’ve had huge obstacles to overcome in the last year, haven’t we? Approaching each socially distant day with no hugs, no handshakes, and our smiles hidden, has filled our days with uncertainty and pressures related to work or to our children’s education. I have noticed two things in 2021, as a small business owner and human on earth. The ways in which we deliver kindness have never been more difficult, and the need for kindness is greater than ever. The good news is that in these challenges, light shines the brightest. As masks and concerns ease, July is the perfect time for a kindness update − a follow-up from our initial challenge in the January issues. Remember practicing kindness starts with a dose of courage, one step to serve another person, and moving things from the head to the heart. Have faith that the joy of loving others is a much better investment of our time than yelling at the news or binge-watching Netflix. When we do that, life gets a little irrational in the most beautiful way. Let’s be irrational and know that kindness starts with just one step. Not perfection, just one courageous step.

FEBRUARY

2021

Crocheting Hats Gives 93-Year-Old ‘Something to Do’

Izetta Stoner crochets two hats a day for children in the United States and Romania.

In February, we met 93-year-old Izetta Stoner, who spends her days crocheting hats for her favorite nonprofit, The Encouragement Project. She averages two hats a day, and to date, she’s completed more than 2,800; it was tough to get an accurate count before the press date with the rapid rate of her crocheting. “It gives me something to do,” the Woodstock resident said. “I used to read a lot, and I still read, but I love to crochet, and I’ve enjoyed this so much.”

MARCH

2021

Food Pantry is a Good Thing ‘To Do’

An old kitchen cabinet serves as the food pantry at the community garden site.

When Laine Wood had an encounter with a family experiencing food insecurity, it didn’t take long for the community to rally and find ways to help. It wasn’t long before several food pantries were built and placed around Canton. The food pantries are located at the community garden in Canton, and in front of the Salvation Army store on Marietta Street. Jory Seidel Cannon got on board and created a Facebook page called Canton Pantry Angels, and people Laine doesn’t even know have volunteered to check the inventory daily, and to keep the shelves filled.

Grace collected 512 pairs of shoes for her Girl Scout project.

MAY

2021

A Successful Shoe Drive

Grace Avillar has been in Girl Scouts for 12 years, and decided to collect athletic shoes for others as her Gold Award project. As an athlete, she recognized the importance of having good shoes when participating in sports, and wanted to find a way to help others who may not be able to afford them. Her project ended May 15, and she collected 512 pairs.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Discover the Coves on “Anybody know how to get to the falls?” “Where is Flamingo Cove?” “Anyone know where Blockhouse is?” These are all common questions seen on Allatoona Lake Life, a private Facebook group dedicated to the lake we all love. With 30,000-plus members, location questions are common within the group. Many of the coves have unofficial names and cannot be found with a simple Google search. This map was created to help provide a better resource for all who enjoy the lake. Coves, marinas and lake restaurants are all labeled. The frequently-requested location of the mysterious waterfall is also shown (although please be careful, the

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

water is very shallow back in that area and is generally only recommended for kayaks and jet skis). Keep this map handy so you can always find the most popular, and most secluded, spots on the lake. The map was created by RCam Laser & Design, a small laser engraving, custom apparel, and personalized gifts company in Woodstock. Digital files and laser engraved versions of the map also are available. For more Allatoona Lake-related items, please visit www.allatoonagear.com. — Randy Knibb

Today’s Forecast Calls for Lake Safety BY GREG FONZENO

During this time of the year, we often see many changes in the sky, and we need to pay attention to those changes. A clear summer sky can change quickly into a thunderstorm. Let’s consider a weather scenario involving a lake trip. It’s Monday, and you and your family think it’s a great idea to go boating next Saturday. Since the trip is recreational, there is no reason to go if the weather is bad. Try setting up a series of go-no-go decisions leading up to your trip. On Monday, you look at the weather forecast for the next weekend. You note there is a warm front approaching. Warm fronts indicate cloudy, humid days with a possibility of rain. We know the warm front will be followed by a cold front in this case. Cold fronts cause the wind to get stronger as air temperatures drop. At this point, the trip is still a go, but you will continue monitoring throughout the week. On Thursday, the warm front arrives, and the forecast shows it departing on Saturday. As the warm front has nearly passed Friday evening, the forecast shows the cold front arriving Saturday. You awake Saturday morning to a beautiful clear day, but with winds approaching 30 miles per hour. To ensure everyone stays safe, you declare a nogo. However, the weather on Sunday looks perfect, so you simply delay your cruise one day.

Making go-no-go decisions also helps us once we are on the water. We might start to have a perfect day, but suddenly see the threat of wide-spread thunderstorms. If you see one coming, meaning you can hear thunder, see dark clouds approaching or see a lightning strike in the distance, make a beeline for the shore. If you can’t get back to your dock, just pull ashore anywhere and wait out the storm. If you are caught in your boat in open water, put on your life jacket (which should already be on anyway), put out the anchor and stay low in the boat. Paying attention to the weather can make for a safer and more enjoyable trip. According to the Coast Guard’s boating accident statistics, weather was eighth out of 10 top causes of boating accidents last year. So, when the weather is risky, remember this passage from “The Cat in the Hat.” “The sun did not shine, it was too wet to play, so we sat in the house, all that cold, cold, wet day.”

Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

School News Valedictorians, Salutatorians Celebrated at Banquet The class of 2021 valedictorians and salutatorians were recognized at the 21st annual scholar recognition banquet. The special event was attended by the scholars and their parents, the teacher each scholar chose as the most influential in his or her education, high school principals, and school board and district representatives. “This has been a school year like no other, but you did not let the challenges stop you from reaching your goals,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “Congratulations! We’re so proud of you.” The students and teachers each gave a brief speech, and Hightower presented each student with an iPad, $50 gift card and plaque, and each teacher received a plaque and $100 gift card. The dinner and gifts were made possible by sponsor donations from LGE Community Credit Union, Cherokee County Educational Foundation, Poole’s Insulation Company and EyeMed. The speeches from students shared common threads, as they praised their teachers for taking a personal interest in them, encouraging them and mentoring them. The remarks by teachers often echoed, as they recounted the dedication the students showed to their studies, their willingness to help classmates learn and to make their school and community a better place.

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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Maggie Bradley

Graduate Earns $5,000 Scholarship Etowah High graduate, Margaret “Maggie” Bradley, has earned the 14th annual Waste Management/Pine Bluff Landfill Scholarship. The $5,000 scholarship is presented to a graduating senior in the county each year. The designated school rotates annually, with Etowah selected as the 2021 school, and all graduating seniors from the designated school have the opportunity to apply. A committee of community members, Waste Management and school district representatives scores applications to select a winner who has excelled in academic, extra curricular activities and community service. Bradley, who ranked third in her class, plans to study biology or neuroscience at Georgia Tech and pursue a medical career. She served as Student Government Association president for four years at Etowah and led charitable fundraising efforts for causes including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Etowah Cares, a school initiative to raise awareness and funds for mental health and wellness. Captain of the varsity soccer team and varsity flag football team, Bradley also served as president of the school’s HOSA – Future Health Professionals chapter, vice president of the National English Honors Society and volunteered as a tutor for classmates.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

School News Ben Willett

Audrey Norton

3 Graduates Earn University Scholarships

Woodstock Principal Mark Smith congratulates future educators. From left, front row: Kaydee Cohran, Lauren De Sanctis, Morgan LaPorta; back row: Hattie Holloway, Sarah Holloway, Macy Hill, Emma Williams, Maddie Brown, Audrey Reecer, Jazlyn Saucedo.

High Schools Celebrate Future Educators

Woodstock and Creekview held “signing day” events for graduating seniors, to celebrate those who plan to pursue teaching careers. “Learning one of your students plans to be a teacher is an incredibly proud moment for an educator,” Hightower said. Woodstock future educators are Kaydee Cohran, Lauren De Sanctis, Morgan LaPorta, Hattie Holloway, Sarah Holloway, Macy Hill, Emma Williams, Maddie Brown, Audrey Reecer, Jazlyn Saucedo, Lily Burlew, Hannah Emling, Kendall Reichman and Isabella Alfano. Creekview future educators include Laura Jane Garrett (Young Harris College), Madison Uren (University of Kentucky), Hallee Cloud (Kennesaw State University), Riley Shepard (University of North Georgia), Sophie Bentley (Kennesaw State University), Kyla Standridge (University of Georgia), Daisy Sisson (Freed-Hardeman University), Rebekah Pratt (Georgia Southwestern), and Savannah Hill (University of North Georgia).

School Nutrition Program Earns Top Honors

From left, School Nutrition Director Tina Farmer and Culinary Specialist Jessica Emmett accept the sign celebrating the award. 60

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

The Cherokee County School District School Nutrition Program earned top honors from the Georgia Department of Education (DOE). The program earned the state’s 2020 Vision District award in recognition of its outstanding efforts to use Georgia-grown foods in school cafeterias. The program has received numerous accolades for its farm-toschool initiative and collaboration with community partners including Cherokee County Farm Bureau. “Your collaborative efforts have positively impacted our communities and students,” said Linette Dodson, Georgia DOE school nutrition program state director. “Congratulations on your success and being named a 2020 Vision District!”

Etowah graduate Benjamin Willett, River Ridge graduate Audrey Norton and Cherokee graduate Dylan Iovino, have won National Merit scholarships. National Merit university and corporate scholarship winners are selected through review of academic records and college-entrance exam scores, leadership and service in their school and community, along with personal essays and letters of recommendation. Only 15,000 of the nation’s top graduating seniors are eligible for the 3,300 National Merit Scholarships financed by U.S. universities and colleges. The scholarships range from $500 and $2,000 annually, for up to four years of undergraduate study. Willett won a National Merit university scholarship from the University of Georgia. A repeated state qualifier in swimming, he also was a member of Etowah’s Eagle Connections group that focused on improving and enhancing school spirit. Norton won a National Merit corporate scholarship from Crum & Foster and plans to attend the University of North Carolina. She participated in the River Ridge marching band for four years, and served her school and community through Beta Club, National Honors Society, Sprouting STEMs Club, Math Team, Earth Club and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. Iovino won a National Merit university scholarship from the University of Alabama. He served as the school’s academic bowl team captain and was in the Band of Warriors marching band and honor band, as well as the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society.

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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

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.

Students in a CTAE healthcare science class at Etowah High School. 62

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

A kindergarten student at Liberty Elementary School.

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.

TOWNELAKER | 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

TOWNELAKER | 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).

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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.

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the May Competition “Leading Lines!”

Color Print

1st Eillene Kirk “Mirror, Mirror”

2nd Jim Kirk “On the Way Up”

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

3rd Martin Longstaff “Mont St. Michel”

Monochromatic

1st John Quinn “Astoria Megler Bridge”

2nd Dean Kelley “Pier One”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Please contact Kim Bates at 770-6177595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net for more information.

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons

American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 www.canyonsfresh.com

Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com

J Christopher’s

Salt Factory Pub

Century House Tavern

J Miller’s Smokehouse

Semper Fi Bar and Grille

Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 www.centuryhousetavern.com

Copper Coin Coffee

American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com

MadLife Studios

Freight Kitchen & Tap

Partners II Pizza

Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 www.freightkitchen.com

Gyro Aegean Grill

Greek/Mediterranean 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-485-5236 https://gyroageangrill.com/

Habanero’s Taqueria

Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 www.habanerostaqueria.com

Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 www.icemartinibar.com

Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 www.ippspastaria.com

BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 www.jmillerssmokehouse.com

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com

Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 www.partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga

Pure Taqueria

Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 www.puretaqueria.com/woodstock

Prime 120

Steakhouse 120 Chambers St. 770-800-8049 www.prime120steakhouse.com

Reel Seafood

Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 www.reel-seafood.com

Rootstock

Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstocknow.com

Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 www.saltfactorypub.com/woodstock American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 www.semperfibarandgrille.com

Tea Leaves & Thyme

English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 www.tealeavesandthyme.com

The Daily Draft Tap Room and Bar American 8594 Main St. 770-783-2799 thedailydraft.net

Truck & Tap

Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 www.truckandtap.com

Vingenzo’s

Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 www.vingenzos.com

Because of you, she will be fed this summer.

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

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

PICASSO MEETS EINSTEIN AT LAPIN AGILE

And so will thousands of other children.

Your generous contribution will help us serve thousands of children in Cherokee and the north metro. EASY WAYS YOUR FAMILY CAN HELP

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

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 TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Community of Faith

ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304, cherokee.netadvent.org Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106, www.cantonadventist.org

AME

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348, www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691, www.stpaulame-canton.org

BAPTIST

Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108, www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 345 Parkway 575, Suite 100, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428, www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538, www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349, www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415, www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100, www.hbcacworth.org 74 TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723, www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324, www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975, www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956, www.bellsferry.com Generations Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Suite 206, Canton g.church Grow Church 2510 E Cherokee Dr, Woodstock 770-693-1018 New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018, www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096, www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003, www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916, www.ecamarietta.org

Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575, www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137, www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434, www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630, www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533, www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS

Sar Shalom 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock http://sarshalomgeorgia.org/

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540, www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286, www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812, www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504, www.stelizabethga.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org

Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722, www.stclementscanton.org

Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com

JEWISH

ROMAN CATHOLIC

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255, www.jewishwestcobb.com

Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923, www.lasalettecanton.com

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009, www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442, www.transfiguration.com

UNITED METHODIST

Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247, www.ballgroundumc.org Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755, www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502, www.cantonfirstumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030, www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969, www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883, www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920, www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495, www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837, www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644, www.sixesumc.org The Way | Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770- 516-0371 www.TheWayWoodstock.com Waleska 7340 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska 770-479-4428 www.waleskaumc.org

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533, www.emersonuu.org

OTHERS

Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766, www.abiding.church Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030, www.actionchurch.tv

Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628, www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193, www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170, www.lifechurchcanton.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964, www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 7745 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-2977, www.bpc.life Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280, www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733, www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com Engage Church 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock 678-445-8766 The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265, www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560, www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227, www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841, www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135, www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500, www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton www.lifebiblechurch.com

New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412, www.newcovenantcanton.org

Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347, http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 ,www.MomentumChurch.tv

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001, www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652, www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795, www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040, www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737, www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495, www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100, www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795, www.thrivechapel.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100, www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366, www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092, www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515, www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990, www.wcchurch.org

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Towne Lake Area Clubs & Organizations

CHARITABLE

Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org.

Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org.

HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org.

Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net.

Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges coaches, college, high school, junior high and youth level athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Steve Hyland. 770-789-7150. shyland@fca.org.

Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org.

Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.

Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org.

Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.

SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org.

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. 11 a.m. Saturdays at Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road.Woodstock. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com.

SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.

Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m. last Wednesday at New Life Church in Canton. 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton, GA 30102. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.

Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home.

Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org.

Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org.

Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.

Male Veteran Support Group

Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

BUSINESS

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: virtually noon-1:15 p.m. every Wednesday. Meeting details are on their website. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. Downtown Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap Phone: 770-241-0373 www.powercore.net The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com.

VETERANS SERVICE

American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366. Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Cherokee Veterans Community Support Groups for males and females meet on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays of the month at First Baptist Church Woodstock. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org. 678-494-2680. veteransministry@fbcw.net.

Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.

CIVIC & COUNTY

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at Canton Police Department 151 Elizabeth St., third floor training room. www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Firestorm Robotics FIRST Robotics Competition Team for High School Students in Etowah, Woodstock and River Ridge. Meets: 4-6 p.m. on Wednesdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Hwy 92 Ste 100 Acworth. 678-247-1972. www.firestormrobotics.org. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514. Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at The Arbor at Bridgemill, 700 Freedom Blvd, Canton. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

POLITICAL

Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com.

Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party P.O. Box 1267, Woodstock 678-721-1969. www.cherokeecountygop.com. Contact us to verify meetings, time and locations. Follow us on Facebook and twitter. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Firestorm Robotics Meets Wednesdays and Saturdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Highway 92, Suite 100, Acworth. 678-247-1972. firestormrobotics.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Advertisers

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

July 2021

ACCOUNTING & TAXES Accounting Connections, LLC O: 770-516-5987 C: 770-846-7799 www.accountingconnections.org

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

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

Childs Play Early Learning Center www.cpelcenter.com

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

ENTERTAINMENT

Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org

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

Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

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

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com

Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) 49

Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

FITNESS/RECREATION Epic Martial Arts 770-592-0088 www.martialartswoodstock.com

R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com

Alpha & Omega Automotive 678-483-5995 www.alpha-omega-auto.com

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

EDUCATION & RELATED SERVICE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

DENTAL

AUTOMOTIVE

Christian Brothers Automotive 678-904-9670 www.cbac.com/townelake

CREDIT UNION

AUDIOLOGY North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

Polished Peach Car Wash 770-592-8102 www.polishedpeachcarwash.com

CHIROPRACTIC

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

BUSINESS SUPPORT

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES

Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext. 306 www.debranski.com

Glass Magic, LLC 404-272-5109, 770-516-6414

Inside back

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 39 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com

Poole Funeral Home 678-932-2097 www.poolefuneralhome.net

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

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

Inside front

HEALTH & WELLNESS JianKang Spa and Massage 770-779-9158 www.jiankangmassage.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

OPTOMETRY 5

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

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

Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 [675-8651] www.mrjunk1.com

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

Brittany Weir Photography 678-514-9267

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

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Northside Hospital www.northside.com/excellence

Back Cover

Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com RE/MAX Town & Country Sarah Terrell 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net

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

Your Pie Woodstock Cover, 40-41 770-627-2072 yourpie.com/locations/woodstock/

PebbleStone 678-708-7894 www.pebblestonepros.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

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

Scrappy’s Junk Removal 678-330-9282 www.scrappysjunkremoval.com

Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com

Felber Home Furnishings and Decor 770-693-6985

Century 21 Celina Meador C: 361-463-6170 O: 770-640-6800

Clear Summit Realty Ken Jones, 770-842-4531 www.clearsummitrealty.com

Coldwell Banker, Debbie Kiser C:470-225-5332 O:770-993-9200 470calldeb.cbintouch.com

INSURANCE Allstate, Joe Parks 11 770-516-4011 https://agents.allstate.com/joe-parks woodstock-ga.html LANDSCAPING Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346

RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

Gyro Aegean Grill 770-485-5236 www.gyroaegeangrill.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

RESTAURANTS/CATERING

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill C: 678-634-5581 O: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com

Keller Williams, Ursula and Assoc. Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com

RETAILERS 5

SENIOR SERVICES

Homeowners Financial Group The Dean Team 61 470-863-7070 www.homeownersfg.com/location/canton

Life Balance Personal Care Home 3 C: 706-224-2125 O: 678-426-8187 www.lifebalancepersonalcarehome.com SPECIALTY FOOD The Butcher and A Baker 770-517-2225 www.thebutcherandabaker.com

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

AroundaboutLocalMedia.com TOWNELAKER | 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

TOWNELAKER | July 2021

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7-21 Townelaker webfinal.pdf

Articles inside

Clubs & Orgs

Community Calendar

Stacy Brown

Barbara Jacoby

Rev. Joseph Cousin

Greg Fozeno

Kevin Williams

School News

Jennifer Ruscilli

Cherokee Women’s

Susan Schulz

Everyday Angels

Pages 40

Julie Felber

Charlice Byrd

Justin Spainhour-Roth

Celebrations

County Commission Highlights

Local News

Asher Kelsey

Cherokee Office of

Around Towne

Noteworthy

Teddy the Spaz Man

Harry Johnston