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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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10 54
Contents On the Cover
28 July 2022
Features
10 A Sweet Scoop
Learn how Bruster’s employee Patrick Kinsella was able to buy glasses to help him see all colors.
28 Sizzlin’ Summer Recipes
Don’t miss these cookout recipes submitted by farmers market vendors and Cherokee County Farm Bureau.
54 City Center Sneak Peek
Check out plans for downtown and the first phase of Woodstock’s City Center project.
Clark Salon & Spa
Owner Keenan Clark has worked hard building the business, which was started by his father, Billy Clark, in July 1978. Keenan promises each client will leave “looking and feeling fabulous.”
Pages 32 & 33
Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits.
READERS’
Winners on Pages 14-16 2
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
CHOICE 2022
In Every Issue 4 Around Towne
18 Local News
20 Celebrations
27 Rob’s Rescues 34 School News
42 Everyday Angels
Contributors 47 Donna Broadus 38 Josh Buckner
48 Charlice Byrd
52 Michael Caldwell
48 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 26 Steve Coleman
10 Jessica Forrester 36 Carey Hood
30 Harry Johnston 35 Bryce Jones
8 Janice Kimber
12 Ann Litrel
25 Susannah MacKay 27 Rob Macmillan 61 John Rodgers
44 Dining Guide
22 Susan Schulz
58 Community Calendar
24 Ashley Velez
62 Directory of Advertisers
57 Christopher Brazelton
50 Recent Home Sales
46 Mary Tucker
61 Library Events
40 The Wanderer
. .
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Around Towne Letter From the Editor
This is the issue you’ve all been waiting for! Wait, what am I saying? I’m pretty sure y’all hold your breath each month until the latest TowneLaker arrives in your mailbox. But, I admit this one is extra special because we announce the winners of our Readers’ Choice 2022 poll on Pages 14-16. I’m especially happy that we are including second- and third-place finishers. With so many amazing businesses in our community, I’m glad we can celebrate more of them. This list of winners will remain on a dedicated page on each magazine’s website. That gives you a resource page when you find yourself in need of services in the areas of home improvement, medical, shopping — we pretty much cover it all! Another special feature we have for you is the latest on the Woodstock City Center development. We dedicated three pages to this project, with architectural renderings that we’ve labeled with the help of Woodstock city officials — thanks, Brian Stockton! After posting these diagrams on our Facebook pages, we noticed a common concern about traffic, voiced by local residents. I wanted to share some good news. While the graphics showing the new buildings, parking deck and green spaces catch your eye, what you can’t see are the plans for the streets. Developers are keenly aware of the concerns and are studying traffic patterns to be able to provide uncongested alternatives for downtown travelers. There will be several options for visitors to cross over Main Street to reach I-575 and Towne Lake Parkway, without adding to the congestion on Main Street. In fact, these alternatives should cut down on the traffic along that route. Once improvements are made to the streets, including the previously announced Hub Transportation Project, the congestion we’re all used to should be greatly improved. Our mayor addressed traffic in his May 2022 column, and Rob Hogan went into detail on the transportation project in January 2020. Click on the Archives tab at www.townelaker.com. More information is available at www.woodstockga.gov. As always, stay tuned as we continue to bring you the most updated information that we can about what’s happening in your community. Personally, I love hearing news (such as the city center announcement) and digging deeper to create a detailed look that no other media outlet in the area offers. Whether it’s my training as a journalist or my strong competitive nature, either way — you win!! See you around Towne!
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
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
What's New
The shopping center next to Goodwill on Bells Ferry Road is full now, with these businesses: Big Smokeys BBQ & More; Hawks Nest Gaming; K9 & Kitty; JianKang Spa; Studio 55 Dance; A Food Mart; Spring’s Smoke Shop; Sooo Good Restaurant (not open yet); and Ol’ Time Barber. There also is a new Dollar General beside Goodwill.
The Rustic Market has opened at 8720 Main St., next to Pie Bar. The shop offers gifts, bath and body goods, candles, provisions, decor, boutique apparel, leather goods, jewelry and more. 770-694-1282. On Facebook. www.shoptherusticmarket.com.
What's Coming
At press time, Ten Sushi Lounge, at 380 Chambers St., had planned a July 2 grand opening. 770-672-6334. Watch for updates on Facebook.
Discussions continue over a proposal to build a
mixed-use flatiron-style building (above) at the
intersection of Main Street and Rope Mill Road. The five-story project, which will be 4,500 square feet with commercial space and 19 townhomes, has been recommended for approval by Woodstock's planning commission. The next step (at press time) was review and a final vote by the mayor and City Council on June 20. Visit http://woodstockga.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx for updates from that meeting.
Guiding you through your real estate experience with
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com
Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw 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.
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www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | July 2022
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a community magazine with 16,400 free copies distributed monthly. Approximately 15,800 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 600 are placed in racks in the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: TowneLaker, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock GA 30189. 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 2022. Volume 27, Issue 2
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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The Volunteer Aging Council Gets a New Name BY JANICE KIMBER
The Volunteer Aging Council, a nonprofit volunteer organization committed to raising funds and awareness for the needs of low-income seniors and senior veterans in Cherokee County, is proud to announce its new name: Stand Up For Seniors. The nonprofit was established in 2000 to address Cherokee County seniors’ unmet needs. Its members are a dynamic team of dedicated volunteers working together with the Cherokee County Senior Services program to raise funds and gather support to help our seniors in need. From connecting with community leaders and businesses, to fundraising and serving lunches, our commitment is evident and unchanging: We Stand Up For Seniors! With statistics like these, the needs are apparent. Did you know?
Save the date
• • • •
8
Twenty percent of Cherokee County residents are seniors. That’s 1 in 5 of your neighbors. We have seniors trying to decide between paying for medication or electricity. A great number of Cherokee County seniors live below the U.S. poverty level (income less than $13,000 per year). We have seniors who are living in unhealthy conditions or looking for a place to sleep.
The seventh annual Charity Golf Classic will be held Oct. 5 at the Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm. Sponsorships are available at affordable levels, or get a team together and come out for a good time. For more information, contact De Gale at dlgale@cherokeega.com.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Here’s how Stand Up For Seniors made a difference in 2021:
Last stop.
We provided emergency assistance when all other means were exhausted. Rental assistance, emergency shelter, past due utility bills, medication expenses, etc. totaled $23,491.
Home repair.
Partners built wheelchair ramps and helped with minor repairs and home improvements to enhance quality of life. Repairs including plumbing, electrical, HVAC and exterior repairs totaled $13,654.
Senior comfort.
We provided items for comfort and mobility, including fans, heaters, canes, walkers, lift chairs and personal hygiene. In 2021, this expense totaled $5,620. These numbers reflect contributions for 2021 only. Think of all the good that can be done for Cherokee Seniors with your help. The options range from making donations to actively serving as a volunteer. For more information on how to help, visit vac-cherokeega.org.
A longtime resident of Cherokee County, Janice Kimber is a board member of Stand Up For Seniors. She is passionate about seniors and their well-being.
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Did You Hear
Sc oop ? the
Bruster’s Employee Gets Glasses to See All Colors
BY JESSICA FORRESTER
For four hours on May 14, Erin Krall and Josh Barrett, owners of Bruster’s on Eagle Drive, donated 20% of sales to buy employee Patrick Kinsella glasses that would allow him to see all colors. Patrick, who is studying biology at Kennesaw State University, is colorblind. He has been working at Bruster’s about two years. Erin described Patrick as one of the best employees they have come across over the 10 years they’ve been there. “He is very friendly and great with customers. Patrick always is willing to take on more work without anyone having to ask. He is a go-getter and a great leader,” she said. While working at the ice cream shop, Patrick was always asking which flavors were which if they weren’t labeled, Erin said. “I thought it was obvious just by looking at them, and that’s when he told us he was colorblind, and it was hard to tell some of the flavors apart.” When Erin and Josh came up with the idea to do a fundraiser night to buy
Patrick says thank you to Amy Holt, whose donation was especially generous. 10
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Patrick's glasses will help him discern the color of the ice cream products he works with.
Patrick glasses so he could see all the colors, they were not expecting such a great community response. “We are all very grateful with the turnout of the community. Patrick was speechless when he found out how many people wanted to donate to his cause,” Erin said. The community was so generous, in fact, that they surpassed their goal, and Erin and Josh are donating the remaining proceeds to a community mentoring program based in Kennesaw: Teach One to Lead One. The program teaches universal principles to lead metro Atlanta students in grades K-12 into a life of purpose and potential, and has worked with students at Etowah High School (https://t1l1.org). Erin, an Etowah High School graduate, and Josh love working in Woodstock. “Josh and I have seen the
community grow so much over the years. We have customers who are coming to us happy and celebrating a special occasion, and some who are having the worst day of their lives. We strive to, no matter anyone's situation, have everyone leave happier than when they came,” Erin said. In just four hours, generous and enthusiastic members of the community left Bruster’s a little happier than when they arrived, and so did the employees. “Patrick was very grateful and excited. It was definitely a very emotional night for him,” Erin said. Patrick’s EnChroma colorblind glasses were expected to arrive by early this month. The lenses will make colors visible, so Patrick can see the vibrancy of reds, oranges, blues, purples and greens, according to EnChroma.
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ragweed). This early spring bloomer has bright yellow flowers and beautiful dark green leaves, which make a lovely groundcover under my trees. Currently beginning to bloom, in the sunnier areas, is blue mistflower, a reliable late summer color. It, too, is a favorite for butterflies and bees.
Water for Wildlife
A birdbath or butterfly puddling dish is an easy addition to attract splashing birds or butterflies, which need water in the dry summer months. I freshen the water in my birdbath frequently for the health of the birds, and toss in a quarter tablet of Mosquito Dunks every couple of weeks to eliminate any mosquito larvae. (The active ingredient is harmless to birds and other wildlife.)
Fans, Flowers and the Fourth
ART AND TEXT BY ANN LITREL
In 2021, more than 140 Eagle Watch residents joined efforts to certify their yards and create Cherokee County’s first certified wildlife habitat community through the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). In the past year, two other Towne Lake neighborhoods, Arbors and Wyngate, launched their pursuit of certification through NWF. (If you missed my April article on this topic, visit https://townelaker.com/archives.)
Most Towne Lake yards, with an abundance of canopy trees and natural mulched areas, already have the elements needed to certify as a wildlife habitat. Many homes need only add a water source, such as a birdbath or butterfly puddling dish, to satisfy the habitat requirements (www.nwf.org/certify). The reward for certifying is an abundance of songbirds and butterflies arriving to enjoy the healthy environment you have created around your home. Below are a few snapshots from my backyard nature journal, illustrating a habitat yard in summer.
Deer-Resistant Blooms for Butterflies and Bees
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Bright orange butterfly weed, alive with the flutter of butterfly wings, catches my eye from my studio window most summer mornings. Butterfly weed, our Southern native milkweed, blooms all summer, attracts many butterflies and bees, and is the host plant for migrating monarch butterflies. A big plus is that it’s also deer-resistant. The toxic sap, to which monarch caterpillars have adapted, is unpalatable to deer. Goldfinches often feast on the last seeds of the golden ragwort in my shade beds (ragwort, not to be confused with TOWNELAKER | July 2022
A Mosquito-Free Fourth
Last year, our neighbors, Bob and Galya Grove, hosted a fabulous Fourth of July party in their yard. To keep the mosquitos away, we used a simple solution: two fans on either side of the yard, blowing across the party area. All through the evening, we and the other guests sipped and ate for hours with no problem mosquitos at all! Oscillating fans are a healthy and surprisingly little-known solution to mosquitoes for any outdoor area. Mosquitos are extremely weak fliers — the slightest breeze will keep them away. An inexpensive rotating pedestal fan on your deck or patio is all you need as an alternative to the constant spraying of your yard. Marketing claims to the contrary, all mosquito sprays — natural or not — have a harmful effect on bees, butterflies and susceptible wildlife such as tree frogs and songbirds, the last of which need the insects killed by mosquito sprays to feed their young. The diet of baby songbirds is 98% insects.
Sources
• American Mosquito Association. www.mosquito.org/page/FAQ. • Tallamy, Douglas M. (2019). “Nature’s Best Hope.” Timber Press. Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
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READERS’
CHOICE 2022
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS IN THE 30189 ZIP CODE We are excited to celebrate you and the contributions you make to our community. We know you’re proud and ready to announce your success! If you won your category, we have prepared a few items to help you celebrate: • Window cling • Certificate •D igital graphics to post on your website, Facebook page or other social media outlets To receive these items, email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com with the following information: • Business name and mailing address •C ontact person’s email address and phone number It’s essential for us to have your contact information so we can make sure you have all you need to celebrate properly. Another way to share your good news — and thank the community for voting for you — is through a Thank You ad. For more information on ads, email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com.
Congratulations! 14
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
IT ’S TIME TO
! e t a r Cele b FOOD, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT AMERICAN RESTAURANT Winner: Gameday Fresh Grill
COFFEE AND/OR TEA SHOP Winner: Maple Street Biscuit Company
ASIAN RESTAURANT Winner: Izumi Asian Bistro
ENTERTAINMENT - ART STUDIO/GALLERY Winner: Madison O’Brien Art - Sip and Paint at Tavern at Towne Lake
Second Place: Tavern at Towne Lake Runner Up: Family Tradition
Second Place: Kani House Japanese Steakhouse Runner Up: Kpop BBQ & Bar
Second Place: Soho Bagel Company Runner Up: Tea Time
Second Place: Paper Scissors Cake
BAKERY Winner: SmallCakes Cupcakery
ENTERTAINMENT - DANCE AND/OR GYMNASTICS Winner: Studio 55 Dance
BARBECUE Winner: JD’s Bar-B-Que
ENTERTAINMENT - EQUESTRIAN
Second Place: Soho Bagel Company
Second Place: Big Smokey’s BBQ and More Runner Up: Kpop BBQ & Bar
BEER/WINE ESTABLISHMENT Winner: Tavern at Towne Lake
Second Place: Donovan’s Irish Cobbler Runner Up: Tuscany Italian Restaurant
BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENT Winner: Maple Street Biscuit Company Second Place: Family Tradition Runner Up: Chick-fil-A
BRUNCH RESTAURANT Winner: Tavern at Towne Lake
Second Place: Maple Street Biscuit Company Runner Up: Donovan’s Irish Cobbler
BURGER RESTAURANT Winner: Gameday Fresh Grill
Second Place: Cheeseburger Bobby’s Runner Up: Tavern at Towne Lake
CATERING
Winner: JD’s Bar-B-Que
Second Place: Tuscany Italian Restaurant Runner Up: Bees Knees
Second Place: World of Gymnastics & Cheer Runner Up: Steps Dance Center
Winner: Soquili Stables
Second Place: Wyatt Equestrian (The Stables at Towne Lake) Runner Up: Bethany’s Equine & Aquatic
ENTERTAINMENT - GOLF COURSE/CLUB Winner: Towne Lake Hills Golf Club Second Place: Eagle Watch Golf Club Runner Up: Spectrum Golf Entertainment
FINE DINING RESTAURANT
Winner: Tuscany Italian Restaurant
Second Place: Kani House Japanese Steakhouse Runner Up: Izumi Asian Bistro
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Tuscany Italian Restaurant Second Place: Taste of Italy
KID FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Winner: Chick-fil-A
Second Place: Gameday Fresh Grill Runner Up: Family Tradition
MEXICAN RESTAURANT Winner: La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant
Second Place: El Ranchero Restaurant Runner Up: Cancun Mexican Restaurant and Grill
PIZZERIA Winner: Mellow Mushroom
Second Place: NY Style Deli and Pizza by Mansi Runner Up: Johnny’s New York Style Pizza
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Winner: Kani House Japanese Steakhouse Second Place: Volcano Steak and Sushi Runner Up: Izumi Asian Bistro
GOODS & SERVICES AUTO - AUTOMOBILE SALES Winner: Hennessy Honda of Woodstock Second Place: Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Woodstock Runner Up: All Terrain Motorsports
AUTO - CAR WASH Winner: Zips Car Wash
Second Place: Polished Peach Car Wash Runner Up: Silver Bullet Car Wash
AUTO - GENERAL AUTOMOBILE SERVICE Winner: Alpha & Omega Automotive Second Place: Mike The Mechanic Runner Up: Chloe’s Auto Repair
AUTO - TIRE SALES & SERVICE Winner: Discount Tire
Second Place: Alpha & Omega Automotive Runner Up: Christian Brothers Automotive
DRY CLEANERS Winner: Mik Cleaners
Second Place: Best Care Cleaners Runners Up (Tied): Designer Cleaners and Plaza at Towne Lake
FAMILY SERVICES - ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY/IN HOME HEALTH CARE FACILITY Winner: Oaks at Towne Lake Second Place: Silver Companions Runner Up: The Reserve at Towne Lake – A Memory Care Residence
FAMILY SERVICES - DAY CARE Winner: Parkview Montessori
Second Place: Hillside Preschool & Academy Runner Up: Towne Lake Academy North Campus
FAMILY SERVICES - EDUCATION SERVICES/ TUTORING Winner: Mathnasium
Second Place: Kumon Math and Reading Center
FAMILY SERVICES - PRESCHOOL Winner: Park View Childcare and Montessori
Second Place: Hillside Preschool & Academy Runner Up: Discovery Point Towne Lake
FAMILY SERVICES - PRIVATE SCHOOL Winner: Hillside Preschool & Academy Second Place: Towne Lake Academy South Campus
FAMILY SERVICES - SPEECH THERAPY Winner: Towne Lake Pediatric Speech Therapy
Second Place (Tied): Anita E. Keener, MED and Moon River Therapy Services
FITNESS/HEALTH CLUB Winner: Burn Boot Camp
Second Place: R2 Total Fitness 24/7 Runner Up: LA Fitness
FUNERAL HOME Winner: Poole Funeral Home & Cremation Services PERSONAL SERVICES - BARBER Winner: Dave’s Barber
Second Place: Ol’ Time Barber Shop Runner Up: Sport Clips Haircuts of Woodstock
PERSONAL SERVICES - DAY SPA Winner: The Retreat at Ribley Chiropractic
Second Place: BEAUtiful ME Med Spa Runner Up: Forever Young Spa
PERSONAL SERVICES - HAIR SALON Winner: Michael Christian Salon & Dry Bar Second Place: The Hair Bar Woodstock Runner Up: Salon Suites of Towne Lake
PERSONAL SERVICES - NAIL SALON Winner: Pro Nails Second Place: Lamour Nails Runner Up: Big Apple Nail & Spa
PET - BOARDING & SITTING Winner: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake Second Place: Destination Pet of Woodstock Runner Up: Allatoona Animal Hospital
PET - DOG TRAINING Winner: Ironclad K9 Academy
Second Place: Destination Pet of Woodstock Runner Up: Best in Breed Dog Training
PET - GROOMING Winner: Canine Chic Pet Grooming Second Place: Allatoona Animal Hospital Runner Up: Destination Pet of Woodstock
PHOTOGRAPHER Winner: Beth Fornuto Photography Second Place: Northern Lights Photography - Linnea Geiger Runner Up: Jessica Bauer Photography
RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY Winner: Eagle Watch
Second Place: The Fairways at Towne Lake Runner Up: Arbors
HOME & GARDEN CLEANING Winner: Collette’s Cleaning Crews, LLC Second Place: Molly Maid of Cherokee County, Kennesaw & Marietta Runner Up: Daisy Maid Home Cleaning Services
ELECTRICIAN Winner: Thompson Electric - Residential Power Solutions
Second Place: Fricks Electrical Services Runner Up: Ballinger & Bailey Electrical Contractors
HOME IMPROVEMENT/REMODELING Winner: Legendary Renovations
Second Place: Allatoona Mechanical Runner Up: GloScapes of Northwest Georgia Outdoor Lighting
JUNK REMOVAL Winner: Scrappy’s Junk Removal LLC Second Place: Bin There Dump That
LANDSCAPING/LAWN SERVICE Winner: Po Boys Landscape Group Second Place: Mixon Landscaping Runner Up: Outdoor Effects
PAINTER Winner: Premier Coatings
Second Place: Pike’s Professional Painting Runner Up: Jim’s Painting
PEST CONTROL Winner: Arrow Exterminators Second Place: Bug Busters Runner Up: Mosquito Authority
PLUMBER Winner: Quick-Pro Plumbing Second Place: Towne Plumber Runner Up: Bobo Plumbing
MEDICAL CARDIOLOGIST Winner: Wellstar Cardiovascular Medicine Second Place: Northside Heart - Woodstock
CHIROPRACTOR Winner: Towne Lake Family Chiropractic Second Place: Ribley Family Chiropractic and Massage Runner Up: Nesnick Total Health
Continued on next page. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
15
COUNSELING Winner: Hillside United Methodist Church Second Place: Cherokee Center for Change Runner Up: Towne Lake Counseling
DENTIST Winner: Baird & Baird Family Dentistry Second Place: Dentistry For Woodstock Runner Up: Towne Lake Family Dentistry
DERMATOLOGIST Winner: Atlanta North Dermatology & Skin Care Second Place: Woodstock Dermatology Runner Up: Modern Dermatology Atlanta
ENT/ALLERGY PHYSICIAN Winner: Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Second Place: Wellstar ENT
GASTROENTEROLOGIST Winner: Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates
Second Place: Digestive Healthcare of Georgia
GENERAL PRACTITIONER Winner: Wellstar Towne Lake Medical Center Second Place: Cherokee Internal Medicine Runner Up: Northside Primary Care Associates: Woodstock
GENERAL SURGEON Winner: Wellstar General Surgery
Second Place: Grant Wolfe, MD & Northside Cherokee Surgical - Towne Lake Parkway Associates
OBSTETRICIAN/GYNECOLOGIST Winner: Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists
Second Place: Wellstar Kennestone OB/GYN Runner Up: OB-GYN Associates
OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST Winner: Eyes On Towne Lake
Second Place: Towne Lake Eye Associates Runner Up: Marietta Eye Clinic
ORTHODONTIST Winner: Kragor Orthodontics Second Place: Family Orthodontics
ORTHOPEDIC Winner: Pinnacle Orthopaedics
Second Place: Resurgens Orthopaedics Runner Up: Dr. Jimmy Jiang & Northside Sports Medicine Network
PEDIATRIC DENTIST Winner: Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock Second Place: Dentistry for Children
16
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
PEDIATRICIAN Winner: PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine
Second Place: Northside Pediatrics Runner Up: Wellstar Towne Lake Pediatrics
PHARMACY Winner: CVS - Towne Lake Parkway Second Place: Kroger Runner Up: Publix Pharmacy - Rose Creek Shopping Center
PHYSICAL THERAPIST Winner: PT Solutions of Woodstock Second Place: BenchMark Physical Therapy Runner Up: Rebound Physical Therapy
PODIATRIST Winner: Village Podiatry Centers
Second Place: Dr. Travis Jones & Northside Sports Medicine Network Runner Up: Nrup Tolat, DPM & Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care
VETERINARIAN Winner: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake
Second Place (Tied): Animal Hospital of West Woodstock and South Cherokee Veterinary Hospital
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ACCOUNTANT Winner: Paragon Accounting & Tax Solutions, LLC
Second Place: Yates & Company, CPAs Runner Up: North GA CPA Services
ATTORNEY Winner: Limbocker Law Firm
Second Place: Nelson Elder Care Law Runner Up: Skaar & Feagle
BANK/CREDIT UNION Winner: Credit Union of Georgia Eagle Drive Second Place: Renasant Bank Runner Up: Truist, Towne Lake Center
BUSINESS SUPPORT (IT/WEB SUPPORT/DIGITAL MARKETING) Winner: Big Blue Z
Second Place: The UPS Store - Rose Creek Drive Runner Up: CNR Technologies
INSURANCE Winner: Derek Good - COUNTRY Financial Second Place: Steve Cannon State Farm Insurance Runner Up: Sherry Bryington American Family Insurance
INVESTMENT FIRM/FINANCIAL ADVISOR Winner: Derek Good - COUNTRY Financial Second Place: Credit Union of Georgia Eagle Drive Runner Up: Summit Financial Solutions
MORTGAGE LENDER Winner: Credit Union of Georgia Eagle Drive
Second Place (Tied): Chase Mortgage and First Mortgage Group
REALTOR Winner: Ursula & Associates Keller Williams Realty Partners Second Place: Broadus Realty Group Runner Up: Sarah Terrell - RE/MAX Town & Country
SHOPPING ANIMAL/PET SUPPLIES Winner: Animal Atlanta
Second Place: Sassy Paws Pet Boutique Runner Up: Hollywood Feed
BOUTIQUE/CLOTHING Winner: Fashion Ten Woodstock Second Place: RAK Outfitters Runner Up: Cenergi Salon & Boutique
GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY Winner: Pikes Nurseries
Second Place: The Pine Straw & Firewood Man Runner Up: Glasscapes
GIFTS/HOME DECOR Winner: Esther 4-14 Antiques and Treasures Second Place: The Gifted Ferret Runner Up: Forever and a Day
JEWELER Winner: Art Jewelers
Second Place: Georgia Gold and Silver Refinery and Exchange Runner Up: Brenda Smith Jewelry
LIQUOR STORE Winner: Bullock’s Wine & Spirits Second Place: Dixie Beverage Outlet
SPECIALTY FOODS/NUTRITION Winners (Tied): Shake by the Lake and Towne Lake Family Pharmacy Runner Up: Nature’s Corner Market
THRIFT OR CONSIGNMENT STORE Winner: Urban Renewal Woodstock
Second Place: NLB Thrift Store & Donation Center Woodstock Runner Up: Seeds Thrift Store
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Local News
SWAT Medic Team at the Ready
Top 10 in 10 Named for 2022
The Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to watch in 2022 have been named by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. The recognition program focuses on Cherokee County residents under age 40 who are considered to be up and coming leaders over the next 10 years. The rising stars include, front row, from left: Sandi Harrison, principal of Liberty Elementary School; Sarah Bowen, pharmacy operations supervisor at Northside Hospital Cherokee; Bethany Watson, city engineer for Canton; Marcie Smith, executive director of The Children’s Haven. Back row, from left: Brady Cornelison, captain and paramedic with Cherokee Fire & Emergency Services; Rajpal Sagoo, managing partner of MDD Holdings; Jacob Sluder, owner and dentist at Dentistry of Olde Towne; Alyssa Rumsey Sheehan, senior project manager for Center of Innovation for Manufacturing/Georgia Department of Economic Development; Andy Smith, attorney with Flint, Connolly & Walker. Not pictured: Kyle Bennett, tourism manager for Woodstock.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Another level of care has been established in Cherokee County: a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Medic Team. Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) joined forces with the Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office (CSO) to create this team of five firefighter-paramedics who also are members of the Cherokee County MultiAgency SWAT Team. Members are: Battalion Chief Scott Gwinn (team leader), Sgt. Brandon Barton (assistant team leader), Sgt. Joseph El-Bisi, FAO Reece Young and FAO Matthew Hudson. These medics are the first line of care for any team member, citizen or victim within a SWAT operation. They are available to provide emergency medicine, and often are utilized by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshal’s Service, FBI and other federal and local agencies for high-risk warrant services. “The SWAT medic must be capable of reacting with speed and composure under high stress conditions, while exercising judgment in determining what lifesaving actions to take. Tactical medicine is a specialized, highly dangerous endeavor, which requires intensive training, discipline and a unique relationship with law enforcement. Tactical medics have the primary responsibility of providing medical care to the SWAT team and any other injured party they encounter during an operation,” said Lt. Billy Mitchell of the CSO.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com August deadline is July 5. Please specify TowneLaker.
Miles Nystrom
Happy first birthday, sweet boy! You are such a joy to be around! Love you bunches, Grandma and Grandpa Nystrom
Brooke von Seeger
Brooke graduated magna cum laude from UGA with a bachelor’s in human development and family science and a minor in business. She accepted a position with PepsiCo - Frito Lay as a sales management associate. Congratulations, Brooke!
Dustin and Danny Happy birthday, Dustin and Danny! We love you! Mommy, Daddy and Dylan
Brittany and Cameron Seed
Brittany and Cameron were married on May 7. Congratulations!
Andrea Steiner
You are loved today and always. Happy seventh birthday, Andrea! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Isabella
Allison Barnes
Ansley Ponder and Jarred Mosher
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Ansley Ponder and Jarred Mosher were married May 6 in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Congratulations!
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Happy double digits to our amazing, creative and beautiful daughter! We love you so much and hope you have the best birthday! Mom, Dad and Jake
Jacques
Happy birthday to an amazing kid! We love you so much! Kykeko, Mr. Anton, Sissy and Mommy
Rachel Murphy
In May, Rachel graduated from Mercer University School of Law, with a Juris Doctor degree. She will be sitting for the Georgia Bar Exam this month and, upon completing the exam, will begin working for the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office in Canton. Congratulations, Rachel!
Lindsay Bresnan
Celebrated her Sweet 16 on June 20. Happy birthday! Love, Mom, Dad and Brooke
Jonah Kish
Congratulations on becoming a teen! Happy birthday, kiddo. Love, Mom and Dad
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Corbin Ray
Happy eighth birthday, Corbin Ray! We love you so much! Momma and Matthew
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Kyree U. Thomas
Happy birthday, beautiful!
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Give a Kid
2022 Back to School Redesigned With Kid
BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
The Give a Kid a Chance (GAKAC) team is gearing up for the 2022 back to school event, set for July 23 at Hillside United Methodist Church in Woodstock, Revolution Church Canton and Revolution Church Jasper. While much of the preparation is the same, there are a few new elements this year, starting with leadership. GAKAC is now part of the outreach ministry of Revolution Church. Zip Cain, the church’s missions minister, is directing the annual event, now in its 16th year. The benefit of having GAKAC join the mission of Revolution Church is that it will add to the year-round efforts of Revolution to serve under-resourced families in Cherokee and Pickens counties. Another change is that children, after they pick out their new backpack, will be able to choose each item to fill them, rather than receive previously filled backpacks. They will head off to have fun with games and activities while their parents and/or guardians can check out a community resource center that has information for additional help they may need. Every family will leave with a meal, thanks to SERV International in Canton, Forever Fed in Woodstock and Cares Food Pantry at the Pickens County location. Other fun activities at the event include bounce houses, games and crafts, and the police department will have vehicles at each location for kids to explore. This new structure fulfills the five staples of the bash: backpacks, prayer, games, food boxes and resources. “At the end of every summer, families in our community are beginning to gather school supplies for their kids to have educational success. When a family is living paycheck to paycheck, this can be extremely difficult to do. Children often have to learn to make do with what they have, even if that means returning to school without the proper essentials they need to succeed,” Cain said. Cher 22
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
d a Chance
Event ds in Mind
In the Beginning
This ministry began in 2006, when several members of Liberty Hill United Methodist Church in Canton were inspired to begin an outreach based on a successful back-to-school program for single parent families at Milford Church of God in Austell (www.milford.org). They wanted to start a similar ministry in Cherokee, offering local students every possible advantage as they begin a new school year. In that first year, 100 children were served by three churches. The next year, GAKAC leaders partnered with MUST Ministries to serve 1,000 children — with the help of 21 churches, nonprofits and civic groups. In 2008, more than 1,500 children attended the event, supported by 600 volunteers and more than 30 churches, nonprofits and civic groups. Year after year, the average number of children who received backpacks and services averaged about 2,800. Growth into Jasper certainly will boost the numbers, helping more children in need. “We are humbled by the opportunity to lead such an amazing outreach event, which was brought to life many years ago,” Cain said. “Although some things have changed about the event, the heart behind why it was started remains the same. We want to mobilize the churches and organizations in our community to live a life on mission, and we want underresourced families to tangibly feel the love of Christ through this event.”
Children are able to pick their backpacks from the thousands donated each year.
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 2022
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Personality Tests Can Help in Hiring BY ASHLEY VELEZ
Halfway into 2022, the phenomenon known as the Great Resignation continues. (This is the elevated rate at which U.S. workers quit their jobs, beginning in 2021, according to investopedia.com.). Increased wages and job fulfillment are two of the driving forces behind the movement that’s causing significant shifts in the labor market, particularly for millennials and Generation Z. These shifts have caused hiring teams to reevaluate hiring practices, to find the right candidate who not only will check the boxes in job descriptions, but who also will align with their organization's values and culture. Some organizations aren't convinced that personality tests are helpful in hiring. But, if you incorporate personality tests into your hiring process as a tool to accompany your overall hiring practices, they can provide insights into who the candidate is as a person and how they operate at work. There are dozens of tests out there, and it can be challenging to know which one will provide the most valuable insight. Here are four favorites that I've taken or used to find talent for my teams:
• Myers Briggs. Arguably one of the most popular tests used to determine a job seeker's personality, this test groups the findings into one of two tendencies in the following categories: extraversion or introversion, intuition or sensing, thinking or feeling, and judging or perceiving.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
• DisC Profile. Companies use the DisC profile to learn more about a potential candidate's professional behavior style and ability to work as part of a team. The four primary factors are dominant, influential, steady and compliant. Results for this profile include fears, values and tendencies for each type.
• 5 Voices. An assessment designed to help individuals discover their leadership voice and be empowered to use it effectively, its results can help transform teams and organizations when members use their own voice and learn to appreciate the voices of others.
• CliftonStrengths. Formerly known as StrengthsFinder, this assessment outlines an individual's top talents, with a detailed report featuring definitions of each talent that is specific to you. The assessment focuses on your greatest opportunities for development and success rather than weaknesses.
Tip: Don't wait for a job application to use personality tests to your advantage! Taking them now can help you better understand others, identify your likes and dislikes at work, and offer insights into your strengths, weaknesses, thinking styles and leadership ability.
Ashley Velez is a digital marketing strategist, freelance writer and company culture advocate. She's a proud resident of Woodstock, where she lives with her family.
Ways to
Feed Kids This Summer
BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY
We are halfway into summer vacation, and that means you still will see lots of kids in the community, having fun at pools or on playgrounds. Sadly, it also is important to remember summer vacation can be a challenge for many children, too. Those who depend on schools for access to nutritious food especially are at risk. But, there is something you can do. Check out these important projects on justserve.org to support children and their needs this summer. And the best part? Your kids can help out, too.
1.
Prepare kits for children through MUST.
2.
Pack meals with YMCA.
3.
Help prepare lunches for children.
4.
Make sandwiches for those in need.
MUST serves more than 500,000 meals to children over a nine-week period every summer. Sign up to assemble bags for children to use for a week of meals or donate much-needed supplies directly to the warehouse. (https://bit.ly/3tdLkBN) The YMCA has always been a safe place for kids. Help them and support our communities by donating supplies to the food pantries or coming out to pack and deliver meals. (https://bit.ly/3PUWEN6) The Table on Delk works to support homeless women and children who are at risk for sexual exploitation. Sign up to decorate lunch bags, fill them and drop them off to the Marietta office. (https://bit.ly/3x8nkm8) Every week, The Sandwich Project collects homemade sandwiches at dropoff points throughout metro Atlanta. Check out the instructions and find a location near you. (https://bit.ly/3wZqSWl) Be sure to check out these great projects and more on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe North Georgia public Facebook group. You truly can make an impact with simple acts of service!
JustServe.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprof it organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprof it or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!
Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Finding Peace Through the Struggle BY STEVE COLEMAN
In John 16:32-33, Jesus spoke these words to his disciples: “Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (ESV) There are two significant assurances to the disciples here: that they will face tribulation, and that they will have peace. These competing forces, tribulation and peace, somehow will converge in harmony in the lives of the disciples. This convergence happens in the lives of all believers as well. But why would these two opposing entities — tribulation and peace — coexist? It would seem that living a peacefilled life would mean finding a way to live life away from tribulations. Yet, Jesus offers a different path to his followers. Romans 8:35-37 says, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, ‘For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” In order to fulfill the definition of conqueror and overcomer, you must conquer and overcome something. An overcomer is not one who figured out how to avoid all difficult circumstances; an overcomer is one who persevered
through difficult circumstances. Our faith is not strengthened while we sleep, unconscious to all of life’s challenges. Instead, our faith is strengthened while we press through whatever tribulation and challenge comes our way. We press through, because we know that he already has overcome. We press through, because we know that we are not alone — the Father is with us. We press through, because we know that the testing of our faith produces stronger faith ( James 1:3). The challenges of today are not used by God to tear you down; they are meant to be God’s tools for building you up. The assurances to the disciples were that they would face tribulation and that they would have peace. Instead of thinking of tribulation and peace as an either/or, what if one is the building block of the other? What if the path to peace is in persevering by faith through the tribulation? And if this is true (spoiler alert: it is!), then tribulation is necessary for peace. So, when the difficult moment comes today, welcome it. Don’t view it as another setback in the struggle of your life; instead, view it as another opportunity for the strengthening of your faith and another building block of peace in Christ.
"
… our faith is strengthened while we press through whatever tribulation and challenge comes our way.
"
Steve Coleman is an associate pastor and worship pastor at Wildwood Baptist Church in Acworth.
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Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services.
This dog’s name is Violet. She is 1.5 years old and a medium-sized dog. She was eager to go outside when we saw her in the shelter, and she was a very nice and calm dog when she was outside. She sat very well for a picture. Violet will be a great and very calm dog for a family.
I interviewed Matt Lindenberg, founder and executive director of Global Conservation Corps, a nonprofit that bridges the gap between community and wildlife (www.globalconservationcorps. org). This interview is part two of three parts, which will continue in August.
How many rhinos are living in the wild in South Africa?
Eighty percent of the world’s rhino population is in South Africa. Half live in Kruger National Park. There are approximately 26,000 in the world and five species. In Africa, you find black and white rhinos. There are about 9,00013,000 white rhinos in Africa. There are less than 5,000 black rhinos in the world (about 1,900 in South Africa).
Do you think poaching can be stopped?
I have to believe it can. It takes community ownership and political will. We always will need rangers as a deterrent to hold the line. Poaching has been going down, but during the pandemic there was a big surge. Rangers were laid off, so poachers moved in. We are losing one to two rhinos every day. Until people are living in better circumstances, poaching will continue. It is not just rhinos. Every animal is being consumed. Africa is the last chance to do it differently.
This cat’s name is Rudy. He is 3 years old and is a magnificent cat. He is a super sweet, orange tabby. If you want a cat that will just hang out with you, this is your cat.
What is the most fun thing for the kids you work with?
Game drives — going on safari and seeing wildlife up close.
What does someone need to do to become a ranger?
It’s a one-week selection process, paramilitary style. Once they make it through that, it’s a six-week armed, basic course. Rangers need to exemplify commitment, leadership, courage and integrity.
What are some dangers involved in becoming a ranger?
You are working to protect dangerous animals in the field. There also are diseases like malaria to deal with. Poachers target and kill rangers. Poaching syndicates kill the rangers and then get their families killed.
Rob with Matt Lindenberg of Global Conservation Corps.
What is your favorite thing about this job?
Being a part of systemic change in South Africa. I try to show the kids living in poverty around Kruger National Park that the park is part of their national heritage, and they deserve to be a part of it. Also, my staff. I get a glimmer of hope through them that there can be a different future. I started this for the wildlife, but my people give me so much hope.
What is a story that you like to tell?
I like to tell people how Martin Mthembu (the inspiration for the movie, “Rhino Man”) saved my life. He saved it twice, actually. The first time, I was training 16 students in the bush, living off the land. We walked into an area where 25 lions were sleeping. One student stepped on a branch, which woke the lions up. They were roaring. A lioness, 9 feet behind me, was crouched and ready to attack. Martin, unarmed, screamed and got between me and the lioness and held his ground. She eventually backed off. The lioness was causing a distraction, giving her pack time to move off. (A lion can charge 60 feet in one second, but humans are apex predators.) The second time he saved my life was from a black mamba snake. Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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6
Must-Try
Sizzlin' Summer Cookout Recipes
According to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, 71% of Americans celebrate July Fourth with a cookout, ranking it as the most popular outdoor cooking holiday above Memorial Day (57%), Labor Day (55%) and even Father's Day (47%). If you didn’t get a chance to browse the Woodstock or Canton markets for ingredients to make one (or a few) of the farmers market-inspired recipes we featured last month, check out these recipes submitted by local vendors and the Cherokee County Farm Bureau; with locally sourced ingredients, they’re sure to help you host a great cookout.
Dewsie’s BBQ Shrimp Amanda and Josh Hall owners of ResQue Rubs, LLC
At the Canton Farmers Market on Saturdays.
Ingredients • • • • • • •
1 pound jumbo shrimp 1 tablespoon Dewsie’s BBQ Rub 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon water 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 4 tablespoons butter
Directions
Peel and devein shrimp. Season shrimp with Dewsie’s BBQ Rub and let marinate for 30 minutes. In a medium pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Saute minced garlic until brown. Add water and Worcestershire sauce. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. Add butter to sauce until thickened. Serve over rice or with toasted bread. Makes 2-4 servings.
Pecan Burger
“Nuttin Like Georgia Pecans,” the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee.
Ingredients • • • • • •
1½ pounds ground beef 6 slices bacon 6 tablespoons chopped Georgia pecans 3 tablespoons chopped parsley 2 tablespoons onion, grated 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Directions
Preheat broiler or grill. Divide ground beef into 12 flat patties. Partially saute bacon — the fat should start rendering, but it shouldn’t be crispy. Drain bacon. Mix together pecans, parsley, onion and butter. Spread mixture on six of the patties. Top with remaining six patties and seal the edges with the partially sauteed bacon. Secure with a wooden toothpick. Broil or grill for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness, turning once. 28
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Pae Pe Pants Chicken Roll-ups Amanda and Josh Hall owners of ResQue Rubs, LLC
At the Canton Farmers Market on Saturdays.
Ingredients
• 2-4 chicken breasts, pounded out thin • 1 small red onion, sliced thin • 2 avocados, sliced thin • 2-4 tablespoons Pae Pe Pants All Purpose Rub • 1 package of sliced prosciutto • 1 package of sliced cheese (Swiss, mozzarella, etc.)
Directions
Prep the smoker to 325-350 degrees. Pound chicken breasts out thin. Thinly slice the onion and avocados. Cut two pieces of butcher twine for each roll-up. Lay out chicken breasts flat, and generously season both sides with Pae Pe Pants All Purpose Rub. Place a slice of prosciutto, slices of cheese of choice, onion and avocado on top. Tuck and roll chicken breasts to make the roll-up. Gently tie one end of the roll-up tight enough to hold in place. Tie the other end tight enough to hold the roll-up together, but not enough to push the onion and avocado slices out. Then tighten the first tie. Put roll-ups on the smoker, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Using a meat thermometer, make sure to get a temperature of 165 degrees in the middle of the roll-up. Slice and drizzle with your favorite sauce.
Terry Ross’ Finger-Licking Barbecue Spareribs “Honey in the Kitchen,” a collection of recipes from the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and the Cherokee Beekeeper’s Club.
Ingredients • • • • •
4 pounds spareribs 1 large onion, cubed 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce ½ cup honey
Directions
Cut the spareribs into serving size portions. Put in a large pot along with the cubed onion. Cover with water, add salt and simmer for about 30 minutes. Remove spareribs from water and place on a hot grill, basting with barbecue sauce. Baste every time you turn the ribs and, for the last basting, add the honey to the remaining barbecue sauce and baste. Turn the heat down and keep an eye on the spareribs — don’t let them burn. The sauce should be so sticky (and good) that you have to lick your fingers!
Honey Dijon Potato Salad “Honey in the Kitchen,” a collection of recipes from the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and the Cherokee Beekeeper’s Club.
Ingredients • • • • • • • • •
2½ pounds small red potatoes, peeled salt and pepper ¼ cup honey ¼ cup Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons (apple) cider or white wine vinegar ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil 6 radishes, sliced ½ medium red onion, chopped 1 cup flat leaf parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
Directions
Cover potatoes with water, add salt and boil until the potatoes are tender. Drain. Meanwhile, combine the honey, Dijon and vinegar in a bowl. Slowly whisk in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Add radishes, onion, parsley and hot potatoes to the bowl. Using a wooden spoon, break up the potatoes into large chunks. Toss the potato salad, add salt and pepper if needed, and serve.
Southbound Barbecue's Pit Beans Chad A. Schmookler owner of Southbound Provisions, LLC
At the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market and Canton Farmers Market on Saturdays. https://southboundque.com.
Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • •
¼ cup bell pepper, diced (orange, red or yellow) ¼ cup Vidalia onion, diced ½ jalapeno, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced ½ pound applewood or hickory smoked bacon 4 cans Van Camp’s Pork and Beans 1 tablespoon reserved bacon grease or canola oil ½ cup yellow mustard ½ cup dark brown sugar 1 ½ cups Sweet Southern Heat BBQ Sauce 4 teaspoons Primo Pork Powder
Directions
Dice bell pepper, onion and jalapeno. Mince garlic. Set aside. Dice raw bacon into small pieces. Diced pieces should be larger than bacon-bits, but not so large that they steal the show from the beans. Fry bacon pieces until crispy. Remove bacon from pan and place on paper towels to cool. Reserve bacon grease; it will be used to saute veggies. Pour pork and beans cans into a heavy-bottom dutch oven or deep aluminum sheet tray. Set aside. Add 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease to the frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is heated through, add diced onion, bell pepper and jalapeno. Saute for 2-3 minutes or until onions begin to change color. Once onions begin to change color, add garlic to the frying pan. Continue to stir so garlic does not burn. Saute all veggies until fragrant and onions have taken on a translucent appearance. Pour sauteed veggies into beans, as well as crispy bacon. Add mustard, brown sugar, Sweet Southern Heat BBQ Sauce and Primo Pork Powder. Mix all ingredients to evenly incorporate. 2-hour preparation: Place, uncovered, on a 225- to 250-degree smoker/pit for 90 minutes or until beans take on a dark, rich burgundy color. 1-hour preparation: Place, covered, into a 350-degree oven for 30-60 minutes. Stir and serve. Serves 12. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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A Glimpse Into November's General Election BY HARRY JOHNSTON
In November’s general election, Cherokee County voters will be asked to make the decision on whether to continue the 1% sales tax for essential county roadwork, land, buildings and equipment. This renewal would not be an increase in taxes, just a continuation of the current special-purpose local-option sales tax (SPLOST). If renewed, Cherokee would remain one of four counties in Georgia with only 2% in local sales tax (1% county SPLOST and 1% E-SPLOST, which stands for education and was renewed last year). All other counties in our state have 3% or more. For the most part, the county doesn’t have the option of not making the expenditures. So, we must either continue the SPLOST or exchange it for a significant property tax increase — something no one wants to see happen. But, that decision is up to the voters. Cherokee, and almost every other county in Georgia, has a county SPLOST and an E-SPLOST, used by school systems for their facilities and equipment. These taxes have to be approved by the voters every five or six years. The county’s SPLOST ends in 2024. The election this fall is the last one before then, so the Board of Commissioners plans to ask the voters to renew it then. The renewed sales tax, if approved, would run through 2030. There’s usually a significant, one-time, county-wide project included in each SPLOST renewal. In the current SPLOST, it was the expansion of the county jail. The upcoming SPLOST proposes an expansion of the Cherokee County Justice Center. We’ve doubled in population since that facility was built nearly 30 years ago, and court activity and staffing have increased with it. It’s bursting at the seams; we really can’t postpone any longer. That project would use about 17% of the total expected SPLOST proceeds over the six-year term.
After funding the main project, the remaining SPLOST proceeds are shared between city and unincorporated-area projects, in proportion with population. About 80% of the unincorporated portion covers essential ongoing capital costs. Half of the unincorporated portion goes to roadwork, covering two-thirds of the county’s roadwork budget. We certainly can’t cut road improvement and maintenance. If anything, we need to add to that budget amount to keep up with increasing road needs. Approximately one-fourth of the unincorporated portion goes to public safety vehicles, equipment and facilities. These vehicles and equipment wear out and have to be replaced on a regular schedule. About 5% will go to upgrades and expansion of essential county buildings, including the tax commissioner’s and coroner’s offices. The remaining 20% of the unincorporated portion is committed to parks, libraries, senior services facilities, the recycling center and economic development. Those arguably can be postponed indefinitely, and they probably would be in the absence of SPLOST funds to pay for them. If you agree with me that most of these projects are necessary, it comes down to a choice of paying for them through a continued sales tax or increased property tax. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts on this and other subjects. Please email me at hjohnston@cherokee.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.
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COLOR perfect Clark Salon & Spa 10511 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 500, Canton, GA 30114 770-479-0052 | www.clarksalon.com E Clark Salon & Spa | Q @clarksalonandspa
C
lark Salon & Spa is a full-service salon and spa that takes care of guests across North Georgia. Proudly serving the Woodstock and Canton communities for 21 years, Clark Salon & Spa has a team of more than 20 skilled professionals consisting of stylists, nail technicians, massage therapists and estheticians.
Keenan has expanded and evolved the business to become a beautification and relaxation destination “that will leave you looking and feeling fabulous,” he said. “In fact, Clark Salon & Spa is the only full-service salon and spa in Georgia that offers floatation therapy with wave float rooms.”
Salon owner Keenan Clark has worked hard building this business - started by his father, Billy Clark in July 1978 - to be the best it can be. In 2001, the salon was relocated from Atlanta to Cherokee County.
Float Your Cares Away
Floatation therapy is a unique way to find relief from stress, sore or tired muscles, chronic pain, or even the negative news of the day. Keenan explained the process: “You’ll float your cares away in your own float room in 10 inches of water with 1,000 pounds of pharmaceuticalgrade epsom salt. The water is heated to skin temperature at 93.3 degrees. You can choose to float with relaxing spa music and soothing LED light, or in total darkness and silence (the classic way to float).” The ultimate relaxation and restorative experience is a 60-minute float followed by a massage or facial. A day at the spa package includes a float, massage, facial, pedicure and an
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From left, salon manager and nail technician Alison Martin; stylist, manager and educator Sarah McNeely; stylist and educator Kara Ho-On. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Keenan and his dad Billy, who started the business in 1978.
organic smoothie from Harvest Moon. Gift cards are available at www.clarksalon.com.
Color Perfection
Always committed to using the best color in the industry, Keenan chooses Schwarzkopf Color with no hesitation. Clark Salon & Spa is a fully certified Schwarzkopf Color salon. Schwarzkopf Color was developed by colorists for colorists, and the team of professionals prides itself on using the award-winning hair color line as well as other top-notch product lines, such as R+Co and Moroccan Oil. “In my 20 years of being a hair colorist, it’s definitely the best hair color I’ve ever worked with,” Keenan
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Keenan Clark’s Tips For Perfect Hair Color Having your hair color done by a professional colorist should make you look younger. It is probably the fastest, least expensive, most effective, painless and harmless anti-aging service available to us. I always tell people that having your hair color done correctly can take 10 years off your appearance.
PHOTOS BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS
• Your hair color should enhance and complement your complexion and reduce unwanted lines.
said about the Schwarzkopf line. “It keeps the hair healthy and shiny. It controls unwanted brassy tones or creates vibrant reds that actually last better than any color I’ve ever seen. The longevity of the color line is excellent and so is the gray coverage.”
• Your color should not be darker around your face, but a level lighter for anti-aging and softness. • Your hair should remain healthy and shiny when your color is done correctly. • Lighten your hair color one level with each decade of life. This will keep you looking younger and keep the contrast of regrowth less noticeable.
• Your colorist should never overlap permanent color on your hair. I have built my clientele and reputation by specializing in single process
For examples of dimensional hair color without lightening the hair, go to #clarksalonsingleprocess on Instagram. If you’d like a consultation, it would be our pleasure to sit down with you and talk hair. I’d like to invite you to see and experience the difference in hair color done right at Clark Salon & Spa. We look forward to serving you.
monthly coaching to establish and hit goals with the support of myself and two managers.”
Keenan is proud of Clark Salon & Spa’s culture; he cited many reasons for the excellent employee retention.
In addition to encouraging the employees’ professional goals, Keenan promotes personal well-being and development by offering weekly pay periods, free floatation therapy and gym membership reimbursement to Onelife Fitness. Keenan is most proud of the company’s matching 401(k) plan.
“There are many benefits to being part of our team. We offer an apprenticeship program for new students, and we have a career path with trackable promotions,” he said. “We provide in-house education and cover half the cost of any outside education. We do one-on-one
Following in his father’s footsteps, Keenan believes taking good care of his employees is the secret to his success. “I care more about the hearts of my team members more than anything else,” he said. “We are always hiring. You just need to be nice and coachable.”
Career Opportunities
gray coverage. Each of my single process clients leaves my chair with the dimension that looks highlighted. You don’t have to pay for a highlighting service if your single process is done right. Having gray hair can actually work in your favor when you use your gray to be your highlights. I often see gray-coverage customers highlighted unnecessarily. There are definitely certain looks and scenarios that can only be achieved by highlighting, but the more gray or white hair you have, the less highlighting is necessary to have a beautiful dimensional hair color.
Stylists, from left, Amber, Tori, Hannah and Danelle.
For career opportunities or questions about hair and skin care, Keenan said, “We would love to meet you. Come in for a tour anytime; we’d love for you to make Clark Salon & Spa your new salon home.” TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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School News
Bascomb Named Top Fundraising School
The top three fundraisers, front row, from left: Scarlett Leake, Tessa Adams and Toby Milam, with coaches Stephanie Cockrell, Ed Koschewa and Janet Roach.
Bascomb Elementary recently was named the top fundraising elementary school in Cherokee County for the American Heart Association, raising $27,646, and also placing in the top 15 elementary schools in the state. Way to go, Bobcats! “Our Bascomb community has made a life-saving difference, and we are so grateful for your support of the American Heart Association. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting Bascomb and the American Heart Association through the Kids Heart Challenge,” physical education coach Stephanie Cockrell said. The top fundraisers from Bascomb are: Tessa Adams $865; Toby Milam $653; Scarlett Leake $602; Peyton Roldan $500; Jonah Williams $411; Pema Trotter $411; Nick Bell $411; Caroline Marshall $303, and Georgia Peters $303.
From left, Rheagan Murtadi, Emma Garcia, Ryan Kennedy, Zoe Goins and Alayna Roper. Not pictured: Jonathan Linville.
Etowah High Places in Georgia Envirothon Contest
The Etowah High School team, made up of Emma Garcia, Zoe Goins, Ryan Kennedy, Jonathan Linville, Rheagan Murtadi and Alayna Roper, placed third overall in the Georgia Envirothon Contest, as well as first place in the event’s wildlife competition. The Georgia Envirothon Council, along with the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, present the annual event to engage students in the conservation of Georgia’s natural resources. The competition gives high school teams, of four to six students, the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in wildlife, forestry, soils and land use, aquatic ecology, and current environmental issues. The event not only tests students’ knowledge in these areas, but also their critical thinking and problem solving skills through written and hands-on tests and student presentations.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Tips for Teens
Self-Discipline Is Key to Success
95% Claims Satisfaction
BY BRYCE JONES
Self-discipline is having the inner strength to control your impulses, and overcome temptations, while pursuing what you think is right. No matter how wealthy, talented or smart you are, without self-discipline, achieving your goals practically is impossible. No one is born with selfdiscipline; it is a learned behavior. It is all about mental strength and focusing on the big-picture goals, not just short-term rewards. With enough practice and hard work, teens (and anyone) can become self-disciplined. Here are a few ways to start:
Jeff Beachler
115 Mirramont Lake Dr. Woodstock, GA 30189-8214 (770) 558-1612 JBeachler@alfains.com
Practice repetition.
Self-discipline is the habit of doing what should be done and avoiding temptations along the way. Like any other habit, it is learned through repeating positive behaviors. Start small and make consistent, repetitive changes that will help you become more self-disciplined. By starting small, your new habits are more likely to stick.
Identify and eliminate your weaknesses.
As the saying goes, “Out of sight, out of mind.” By simply removing temptations — food, television, social media, etc. — you are taking a huge step toward building self-discipline. If you want to become more productive, set limits on how much social media or video games you can use, or remove them entirely.
Make a plan.
Too many times, people say that they will stop procrastinating, or they will not eat any more fast food, but they never create a plan to help them stick to their promise. (I am guilty of this, too!) Write down a clear plan that outlines how you are going to remove temptations and create new positive habits, and put the plan in a place where you will see it every day.
Remember, we all are human, and we all make mistakes. Temptations will get the better of us, but do not let a slip-up stop you from continuing to pursue your goals and plans. One wrong decision does not define you. Instead, learn from your mistakes, forgive yourself, and carry on. Find ways every day to practice and build your self-discipline, and this habit will put you on the road to achieving your goals.
Bryce Jones is a Woodstock High honors student who plays soccer and is involved in student government. He was a reporter for Scholastic Kids Press and a 2020 TEDx Speaker.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
35
The Music S in
WOO
PHOTOS AND TEXT BY CAREY HOOD
Roger Brainard, above, performs at MadLife Stage & Studios. Ben Bostick, right, entertains his audience at Rootstock.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
I have been a music fan for as long as I can remember. Some of my earliest childhood memories involve me wearing my dad’s headphones (that were bigger than my whole head) while I listened to his vinyl record collection. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, a great music city, I had the opportunity to see legends like B.B. King, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker. Music has been a huge part of each stage of my life, and I am grateful I was exposed to so many different types of music early on, making it easy for me to find something I enjoy listening to in just about any genre. As a Woodstock resident for the last 30 years, I have seen our town evolve into a vibrant and creative mecca. Exciting things are happening in our music community that will solidify Woodstock as one of the South’s hotspots for great local music. In recent years, downtown Woodstock has become THE local destination for live music events, and, on any given night, you can walk several blocks in any direction and find some of the best musicians and artists in our backyard. Whether it is a large amphitheater-style show, an intimate listening-room event or a lively patio performance, Woodstock has so many options for music lovers to explore. One article I recently read claimed that, with music so readily available online, “local music scenes are a thing of the past or nearing extinction.” However, I am excited to report this simply is not true for those of us living in
Scene Is Center Stage
ODSTOCK
THE VENUES
There is a growing number of venues downtown that offer live music. We’ve attempted to create a comprehensive list. If we’ve missed one, please let us know.
Century House
https://centuryhousewoodstock.com
Copper Coin
https://coppercoinwoodstock.com
The Daily Draft
www.thedailydraft.net
Freight Kitchen & Tap www.freightkitchen.com
The Gazebo in the Park at City Center https://bit.ly/3MhuCIi
MadLife Stage & Studios
www.madlifestageandstudios.com
Main and Mill
www.mainandmillwoodstock.com Kurt Lee Wheeler on stage at the Woodstock Arts Event Green.
Woodstock. We have our very own growing and vibrant music scene happening right here. Woodstock is a hub of activity that draws musicians and songwriters from all over Georgia and beyond to perform on its stages. Musicians are finding a home in our city, and a sense of community is forming as collaborations and friendships abound. Local songwriter and producer Roger Brainard recently told me, “There really is a healthy, growing music
scene in Woodstock. With lots of music-centered venues and players from various genres getting together, encouraging and supporting each other, we seem to be creating a unique sound. Woodstock is becoming a destination for both listeners and musicians.” If you are a music lover, I would highly encourage you to check out some of the local acts that are performing each week. I think you will be amazed at the talent we have in our neighborhood.
Maxwell's Cigar Bar
www.maxwellscigarbar.com
Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater https://bit.ly/3MhuCIi
Prime 120
https://prime120steakhouse.com
Pure Taqueria
www.puretaqueria.com
The Reeves House Visual Art Center
https://woodstockarts.org/visual-arts
Reformation Brewery
www.reformatoinbrewery.com
Rootstock Carey Hood is a wife, mother and educator who’s lived in Cherokee County 30 years. She enjoys promoting local music through photography and social media. Instagram: @just_a_fan_photography.
www.rootstocknow.com
Woodstock Arts Event Green
https://woodstockarts.org
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Biking Laws Every Cyclist and Motorist Should Know BY JOSH BUCKNER
Recently, I was patrolling downtown Woodstock at about 2 a.m. when I saw something slightly out of the ordinary for that time of day — a cyclist. But, what really caught my attention about this cyclist was he actually was riding on the roadway, following all of the laws. He even had the safety equipment required by law, and he was riding on the rightmost side of the roadway. There was a front-facing headlight for the bike, as well as a rear flashing light. The cyclist also stopped at all the stop signs and red lights in his path. It was very refreshing to see; as opposed to what I often see, which are cyclists ignoring one or more of the rules of the road, even at their own peril. This made me think that with as many cyclists in Woodstock, perhaps only a few actually know the laws. If I’m being completely honest, I was not fully aware of all of the laws regarding cyclists myself, until my career in law enforcement began. On a daily basis, Woodstock has a host of cyclists, from casual riders to professionals, on our roadways. But, how many cyclists actually know the laws, and why they are 38
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
important? Georgia law on this subject is surprisingly lengthy, but for good cause. The Official Code of Georgia (O.C.G.A.) 40-6-290 through 40-6-299 covers the cyclists’ responsibilities. These laws can be summed up as follows: • Cyclists must ride as far to the right side of the roadway as possible, unless a designated bike lane is provided or when turning left. • Cyclists must use due caution when on the roadway. • Cyclists must observe traffic laws such as stop signs, red lights, etc. • Cyclists cannot ride more than two abreast. • Cyclists must wear a helmet strapped to the chin. • Cyclists must have a front-facing light that reaches for a minimum of 300 feet. • Cyclists must have rear reflectors for night riding.
There also is a list of prohibited modifications to bicycles. For the most up-to-date laws, visit www.gahighwaysafety.org. But, laws that apply only to cyclists leave somewhat of a gap. Doesn’t the motoring public have a responsibility to cyclists as well? Yes, and Gov. Brian Kemp recently added to the existing laws, making the roadways safer for cyclists to enjoy. O.C.G.A. 40-6-56 states: “Motorists shall approach cyclists using due caution and, if possible, safely make a lane change if roadway and traffic conditions allow before passing. If a lane change is not possible, the motorist is to reduce speed to a reasonable speed that is at least 10 MPH lower, or to 25 MPH — whichever is more — before proceeding around the cyclist, with at least 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicyclist at all times.” These laws are intended to keep everyone safe and happy on the roadways. I have seen motorists and cyclists ignore these laws and get impatient or frustrated with one another. Ignoring laws can lead to people getting hurt or even killed. If you are a cyclist, I implore you to read the laws, and practice them on your rides. Please don’t be “that” cyclist that yells for people to share the road and then disobeys the law. As a motorist, you have a higher responsibility, per Georgia law, to use due regard and caution when approaching or passing a cyclist. As motorists and cyclists, it’s all of our responsibility to follow the laws, because, when we don’t, the results can be catastrophic. I hope together we can make rides through Woodstock safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Officer Buckner is a six-year veteran of the Woodstock Police Department and currently is lead traffic officer in the Traffic Enforcement Unit, specializing in DUI enforcement and fatality/serious injury crash investigations.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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The rock quarry, reachable from the Pine Log Creek trail, has a boulder that many folks think looks like a giant frog sitting alongside the water.
Want to Dig Deeper?
If you enjoyed last month’s article and want to learn more about the origins of Bells Ferry Road, as well as other ferries in the Atlanta area, visit https://bit.ly/3GJlCea. For further research, check out:
• “Cherokee County Court records, 1835: Morrow, GA.” Vogt, “Hidden History of Lake Allatoona: • Larry the Sixes, Cherokee Mills, Little River Area.”
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• • •
Dautzenlein Publications, 2013. GA records and Cherokee County Deed Book B, #251. GA records and Cherokee County Deed Book C, #110, p. 64-65. GA records and Cherokee County Deed Book O, p. 442.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Who Were to Set Foot BY THE WANDERER
On July 4, 1776, the American colonies severed their political connections to Great Britain by declaring themselves independent. As any teenager learns, it is one thing to declare your independence, but quite another to achieve it. The Revolutionary War continued for seven more years, and, for all intents and purposes, the U.S. began its existence as a nation on Oct. 19, 1781, when British Gen. Charles Cornwallis surrendered to Gen. George Washington at Yorktown. That was 240 years ago. Would it surprise you to learn that the first Europeans to set foot in Georgia did so about 240 years before that battle, and passed through Cherokee County? These first visitors were Spanish, and they took a circuitous route, landing near Florida’s Tampa Bay in 1539. Approximately 600 men and 220 horses made landfall, and spent the winter of 1539-40 in what we now know as Tallahassee. In March of 1540, they crossed into Georgia. Traversing the state by following rivers, they passed through what now is Macon, crossed the Savannah River at the future site of Augusta, and traveled into South Carolina. After passing through North Carolina and Tennessee, they entered Georgia a second time on July 15. The following day, they encountered the powerful Chief of Coosa at a spot now under Carters Lake. A month later, they headed south, making a stop in a Native American village before moving on to Itaba (what we today call the Etowah Indian Mounds), where they crossed the Etowah River. Eventually, they moved on through present day Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. Their leader, Hernando DeSoto, died in 1542 in present-day Arkansas, and was buried in the Mississippi River by his men. Their route covered a great distance, and was through continuous wilderness, so what drove DeSoto on? He was looking for gold and silver. DeSoto already was quite wealthy; as a young man, he’d played a major role in the conquest of the Incas in Peru under Francisco Pizarro. Most would have retired to spend their wealth, but DeSoto was interested in nobility, seeking the title of marquis. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V (Charles I of Spain) granted him the right to explore and conquer “La Florida.” Off he went, hopeful of finding the riches that would earn him the title he wanted from the king of Spain, as it had for Pizarro a few years before. DeSoto never found the gold he was looking for, although, ironically, it was there. He and his men traveled right through what today is referred to as the Georgia gold belt, which later would produce our
the First Europeans in Georgia?
The long, elevated bridge near the Pine Log Creek trailhead is made of a pine log.
nation’s first gold rush and the first U.S. Mint to stamp coins from Georgia gold. (If you missed my May article on this topic, visit https://townelaker.com/archives.) Some 482 years later, you can walk in DeSoto’s footsteps at the Pine Log Creek Trail, which borders Cherokee County, just outside Waleska on Highway 140. Significantly, when the border was created between Cass (now Bartow) County and Cherokee County, it would have crossed straight through this land. In a nod to its significance, a small notch was carved in the border to ensure that it all would fall within the confines of one county, in order to manage and preserve it. The 5 miles of trails at Pine Log are traversed easily, and are well worth the time spent, for the history of this place doesn’t end with DeSoto. It was there, in 1785, that Chief Yellow Bird signed the Treaty of Hopewell, declaring peace between the U.S. and the Cherokee Nation, which had befriended the British during the Revolutionary War. And, in the late 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps created a rock quarry there, still reachable from the trail and a fine place to enjoy a picnic lunch.
• https://bit.ly/38WLKpa • https://bit.ly/3NLOqES • https://bit.ly/3z7SMCh • www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=13190 The Wanderer has been a resident of Cherokee County for nearly 20 years, and constantly is learning about his community on daily walks, which totaled a little more than 1,800 miles in 2021. Send questions or comments to wanderingga@gmail.com.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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EVERYDAY
Bella Kirby, left; the Redmond family, above.
It’s hard to believe we are more than halfway through 2022! Summer months always are a good time to recap and update our readers on the people we have featured to date. In January, we shared the story of 2-year-old Bella Kirby. Bella was diagnosed with a rare form of cancerous brain tumor, grade 2 ependymoma. Her family has felt the love of our community as our Cherokee Softball Association has led the fundraising charge to help them through this fight. Their GoFundMe remains active as Bella continues her treatments:
The Lee family, above; Tommy Akins, right. 42
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
www.gofundme.com/f/help-relievesome-stress-from-bellas-family. In February, Everyday Angels shared a neighbor’s request to help two grandparents who are raising their grandchildren while their daughter fights addiction issues. Their newfound roles had been challenging enough; then grandpa was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, stage 3. We continue to accept donations in support of them as they are facing an uphill battle, especially during the summer months when the children are out of school. In March, we featured Canton police officer Jesse Lee, who lost his wife, Brianna, two weeks after the birth of their second child in January. The Lee family continues to navigate life without their precious mom and wife. As usual, our gracious community has rallied around this sweet family. The GoFundMe set up by their police department friends remains active: www.gofundme.com/f/m83bs-leefamily-expenses. In May, we featured our beloved Tommy Akins, the gentleman who ran alongside Bells Ferry Road for more than 12 years. Our mailbox was filled with cards and letters of support and encouragement for Tommy. He was hospitalized with pneumonia in June, which was a setback for him. He is now being cared for in a rehab facility and hopefully will be able to move back to the
community he loves. We will continue to accept cards or donations in support of his extended care. We are working closely with his family and church in support of our friend. Last month, we shared the story of Bill Redmond who is recovering from serious injuries from a motorcycle accident. Bill remains at The Shepherd Center, where he receives extensive physical and occupational therapies. He has many months of rehabilitation and recovery ahead of him. Meanwhile, his wife continues to work full time and goes back and forth for daily visits. A GoFundMe has been set up for the Redmond family and Everyday Angels will continue to accept donations on their behalf as well. www.gofundme. com/f/help-us-get-bill-home. In addition to sharing these stories, Everyday Angels works behind the scenes to assist qualified families with utilities and food and rent, when funds are available. Our generous donors are the only source of financial help. If you know of someone within our community in need, please email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
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 our community, email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
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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
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Golden Rulers of the Garden BY MARY TUCKER
Yellow is emblematic of summer, and many of our native perennials represent the season well with golden blooms, including plants of the genera Silphium, Rudbeckia and Helianthus. The tall, tough beauties perform when many other garden favorites have had their day and are beginning to fade. These golden genera can lead your garden from one season to another. Silphiums begin the bloom parade in June or July, Rudbeckias follow, and those in the Helianthus crowd extend the show well into October, or beyond. This length of bloom time is a boon for wildlife. Butterflies and bees are naturally attracted to the bright, yellow blossoms for nectar and pollen. Later, when the flowers go to seed, birds have time to feast.
Silphium
Native to the eastern United States, Silphium attracted botanist William Bartram’s attention when he was exploring the Southeast in the 1770s. In the records of his travels, he noted: “The most conspicuous, both for beauty and novelty, is a tall species of Silphium.” Despite the beauty and novelty noted by Bartram, Silphium has been overlooked as a garden specimen and may be hard to find, except in native plant nurseries. All members of the genus are tall, in the range of 7 to 10 feet, and display 2- to 3-inch wide, yellow, daisy-like flowers.
Helianthus angustifolius 46
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Silphium perfoliatum
Being creatures of meadows and fields, they are tough and tolerant of a wide range of conditions. The foliage is quite variable within the genus and displays some fascinating forms. Silphium laciniatum (known as compass plant) has large, deeply incised leaves that line themselves up in a north-south direction to minimize exposure to the harsh midday sun. Silphium perfoliatum is commonly called cup plant due to the configuration of its foliage. The leaves are opposite one another on the stem, and the larger mature leaves, which can be up to a foot long, are fused at their bases, forming a “cup” around the stem. Rainwater pools in these vessels, providing birds with a drink.
Rudbeckia
The Rudbeckia genus has several dozen species, including annuals, biennials and perennials, all of which originated in North America. The nursery industry has created many hybrids, and rudbeckias come in all shapes and sizes. Some of the most magnificent are two native perennial giants, R. laciniata (green-headed coneflower) and R. maxima (great coneflower). R. laciniata bears attractively lobed foliage and reaches 6-10 feet tall.
The plant develops a branching habit as it matures. From mid-summer into autumn, numerous yellow flowers appear, which are 2-3 inches across with gracefully reflexed petals surrounding a green central disk. Rudbeckia maxima enjoys popularity with garden designers due to its attractive gray-green, oval foliage and its tall flower stalk that is topped with a 4-inch bloom consisting of yellow petals surrounding a brown cone.
Helianthus
Native perennial sunflowers in the Helianthus genus, all sporting bright yellow blooms, flower in late summer and fall. Helianthus angustifolius (swamp sunflower) is native to most of the Eastern United States, and as its common name implies, it prefers a moist, rich soil. Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian sunflower) is perhaps the toughest of the perennial sunflowers, being drought tolerant and able to survive in a variety of soil conditions. Plants representing the Silphium, Rudbeckia and Helianthus genera often are available at the Cherokee County Master Gardeners periodic plant sales. For information about upcoming sales, visit https:// cherokeemastergardeners.com.
Mary Tucker is a North Carolina native who has lived in Cherokee County for more than 25 years. She is a Lifetime Master Gardener whose special interest is gardening with native plants.
A Must-Try Fourth of July S’mores Basket BY DONNA BROADUS
Summertime fun is upon us, and most of us are spending time at the pool, the beach, Allatoona Lake or just at home in our backyards. I have a step-by-step guide for a summer and fall s’mores basket that you can grab anytime you head out to the lake, pool, beach, a Woodstock Summer Concert series show, or while you watch Fourth of July fireworks. It also is a great thing to have ready for impromptu guests at your home or a party in your backyard. Fall usually is associated with making s’mores, since it’s a time when many people have bonfires, but, with a small tabletop container and some clean-burning sterno, you can have s’mores year-round. The first thing you will need to get is a metal tabletop container, a personal and portable fire pit, or a deluxe s’mores roaster. You can find these online through Amazon or at local big box stores. Next, get a Sterno, but do not get one with citronella. I recommend an ecofriendly or green, clean-burning Sterno. Or, if you’re in the mood for a quick DIY, get a small, metal bucket and fill it with some river rock pebbles to house the Sterno.
To finish your s’mores basket project, you will need: • roasting sticks • a vintage or new picnic basket to hold everything (Check out local thrift shops or Facebook Marketplace for vintage baskets.) • small containers and/or resealable bags • graham crackers • large marshmallows • assorted chocolate
Once you have everything you need, place it all in your picnic basket, so it’s always ready to grab and go whenever you are. I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Fourth of July! Donna Broadus is a 28-year resident of Woodstock and the owner of Broadus Realty Group. She posts designing/staging tips on Instagram and Facebook. broadusrealtygrup.com.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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In Pursuit of Energy Independence
BY CHARLICE BYRD
Prices are skyrocketing due to inflation, but inflation is not the only driver of the cost of goods and travel. Recordbreaking gas and energy prices are playing a part, as well. The cost of gas affects children getting to day care, parents getting to work and business owners’ ability to operate successful businesses. In Georgia, we did our part to help plan for the future by suspending the state’s gas tax. If our nation had a plan for energy independence, or if each state embraced energy independence, prices at the pump would not be squeezed by the results of foreign conflicts or trade cabals. Georgia has the ability to tackle real issues with real solutions, and it is time to return energy policy to the states. If we do not act, we will not be able to afford what the future has in store. I would like to work with my fellow legislators to propose a forward-thinking energy plan for Georgia: To call on Congress, requesting a permanent ban on exploration and drilling off the Outer Continental Shelf, including deep waters off the coast of Georgia. The ban has expired and been reinstated in the past few years. We should enter into negotiations with oil and gas companies to explore energy in our state.
To create an economic development environment promoting construction of a natural gas pipeline(s). With growing demands for energy and soaring prices in recent months, we need supply to keep up with demand. To introduce legislation calling on the Environmental Protection Agency to waive designer fuel standards for the foreseeable future. New technology, not gasoline, makes our air cleaner. No natural disaster or foreign conflict should disrupt the state’s economy or break our checkbooks. Planning for the future hopefully will insulate us from an energy crisis and help keep prices reasonable, moving forward. Thank you all for allowing me to represent Georgia House District 20. It is an honor to work for you and this great state. If you have any feedback, do not hesitate to call 404-557-2218, email charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov, or engage on Facebook.
Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives. charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov.
Cherokee Obstetrical Care Advancements BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC
The face of Cherokee County has changed dramatically over the past several years. Today, our county is one of the premier places to live, work and play. However, just a few decades ago, Canton and Woodstock were considered little more than rural areas of metro Atlanta, consisting mostly of pastures and farmland. The area was so rural, in fact, that it was not unusual to have to travel several miles just to get a gallon of milk, much less deliver a baby. Sadly, this resulted in a high infant mortality rate of 8.2 in Cherokee County, according to the 1990 U.S. census. (The infant mortality rate is the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 live births.) Not only were there fewer conveniences in the area, but, until 1993, Cherokee County did not have an obstetrical (OB) practice. The lack of OB care meant women had to drive to Marietta or Atlanta to receive much-needed prenatal care. Because of this, women often chose to forgo prenatal care altogether, and would go to the hospital only when it was time to give birth. It wasn’t until an Atlanta OB-GYN, Dr. James Cross, recognized the need for OB care in the area that Cherokee Women’s Health was established. After OB care was accessible in our county, the infant mortality rate dropped 43% to 4.7, according to the 2000 U.S. census. Soon, certified nurse midwives also were given privileges to deliver babies at the hospital, not just assist with home births. 48
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
With the nurse midwives working closely with OBs, patients received the best of both worlds — a more holistic approach to birthing, along with the assurances of having a board-certified OB-GYN available, should complications arise. Additionally, the Cherokee County Health Department also began offering OB care. Prior to that, women without health insurance most likely received no prenatal care, which also resulted in higher infant mortality rates. Thanks to community involvement from doctors and midwives, the health department’s program expanded to include OB services. The program was so successful that many other Georgia counties followed suit and implemented the same model at their health departments. Cherokee County has been — and continues to be — a leader in women’s health care, with dozens of OB-GYNs now practicing in our county. With exceptional OBs and midwives available just around the corner, women no longer need to forgo prenatal care, which means our moms and babies are happier and healthier than ever.
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has six OB-GYNs and five midlevel providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Directed by Ed Palombo August 12, 13, 14 | 19, 20, 21 BIOGRAPHIES
CHECK OUR WEBSITE SHOWS/SHOW DATES (TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
W W W. C H E R O K E E T H E A T R E . O R G
CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR TICKETS & MORE INFO ON OUR
2022-2023 season!!
FOLLOW US CTC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, your donations are tax deductible.
ALL REGULAR SHOWS
Friday/Saturday - 8pm • Sunday - 2:30pm
Adults – $18 | Member Discount – $15 Groups 10 or more - $13 | Senior/Student/Active Military – $15 P l ay i n g at Canton Theatre • 171 E. Main St., Canton, GA
Box Office 770-591-0282 | info@cherokeetheatre.org Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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A Message From the
A
s the mayor of Woodstock, and Woodstock’s former member of the Georgia House of Representatives, I have had the honor of serving our families in two elected roles that are (very intentionally) part-time. In my opinion, citizenlegislators and citizen-mayors make for better public servants. Keeping these roles part-time (and paying commensurately) ensures we truly are represented by our neighbors and peers. That means legislators and mayors need to make their living apart from their official roles, though, and I have spent the majority of my private sector career as an entrepreneur. In 2011, I was part of the founding team of Python Safety, a safety equipment company that we built from scratch in Woodstock, and ultimately was acquired by 3M. In 2017, David Leggett and I started Black Airplane, a custom application development company, which currently employs nearly 30 full time in downtown Woodstock. The adventure of building a company from scratch always has been a passion of mine, and I’m fortunate to have seen success creating jobs that have benefitted dozens of families in our city. That’s why I jumped at the opportunity when the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce asked me to be the Woodstock City Champion for Lemonade Day, a national movement focused on teaching students in grades 3-5 the importance of entrepreneurship and the practical skills they need to engage with it. I’m proud to chair and serve as a mentor in the North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service, an MIT-trained Cherokee Office of Economic Development initiative focused on active mentoring for adult entrepreneurs kicking off new ventures. And, if we can instill these
principles in kids who still are developing their perspective on individual responsibility, budgeting and investment, we can set up the next generation of business leaders with an incredible competitive advantage. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses account for more than 64% of new jobs created in this country. Entrepreneurship is critically important to the American way of life, and there is little more important that we can focus on teaching our next generation. Lemonade Day will be Aug. 6 at 11 a.m. at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks building, 7545 Main St., in Woodstock. The event is free, and will teach our community’s kids how to start, own and operate their own business with a lemonade stand. Each child who is registered will receive access to the Lemonade Day curriculum, which teaches lessons such as creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors and giving back to the community. Along the way, they will acquire skills in goal setting and problem solving, as well as gain selfesteem critical for future success. Participants keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some. You can register your child for this fantastic opportunity at https://lemonadeday.org/cherokee-county. I am proud to live in a place that prizes entrepreneurship, individual responsibility and preparing our children for an even better tomorrow. With programs like these, and so many of the initiatives we’ve built together, we’re sure to leave an even stronger Woodstock for our next generation to inherit. — Mayor Michael Caldwell
Michael Caldwell is the 31st mayor of Woodstock, a retired state legislator, member of the Georgia Technology Authority, partner at Black Airplane, husband to Katie, and father to Oliver, Elizabeth and Charlotte.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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WOODSTOCK CITY CENTER
1
PLANS FOR DOWNTOWN
4 Arnold Mill Rd. entrance.
OTHER CITY CENTER DETAILS 1. H OTEL. 120-room all-suite
hotel, branded by Woodstock (that’s the current plan), with a 250- to 300-person community event space. Rooftop bar on hotel.
2. OFFICE SPACE OR CONDOMINIUMS. Plans
are still being made for this area. The overall project calls for 40,000 +/- square feet of office space, and 20,000 square feet for 20 condominium units.
management will include timeenforced, on-street parking, with free, long-term parking available in the deck.
5
7. R ETAIL. Overall, adding 14,000 square feet of retail.
8. RESTAURANTS. 11,000
square feet has been set aside for restaurants.
9. OPEN SPACE.
3. PARKING DECK. 647-car
parking deck, six levels, with 2-3 levels underground, access available on three levels. No charge.
MAP VIEW
2
4. PARKING DECK ENTRANCES. Cars driving into Woodstock from I-575 can enter through the Arnold Mill entrance/ exit. The Durham Place entrance/ exit will lead to Hubbard Street. Plans are underway for the third entrance.
1
5
4 8 4
5. ARNOLD MILL ROAD.
After gaining a median, Arnold Mill will be a more integral part of the amphitheater entrance. The temporary barricades along the perimeter of the amphitheater will no longer be needed.
6. I MPROVED TRAFFIC.
Studies have been conducted to learn more about parking patterns in the city, to determine how to limit parking time without it being a detriment to the drivers. It is anticipated that future parking
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
7
3
7 9
8
2 4
4
4
Durham Place entrance.
Entrance behind building, off Wheeler St.
3 2 P
DRESS U
9
8 7 FREIGHT
8
KITCHEN
& TAP
6
COMPLETION.
Within six months, we will start to see changes to Chambers Street. Anticipate three years for completion of the overall project.
2 8 4 Parking deck behind hotel.
1
4 Arnold Mill Rd. entrance.
5
Photo renderings and maps provided by Place Maker Design and Morris Fellows.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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WOODSTOCK CITY CENTER PLANS FOR DOWNTOWN
office opportunities, as well as a boutique hotel with community event space. The privately held land will be purchased from the city for $1.5 million. “I have not worked with any city that has capitalized on a private development and continued to invest in placemaking and community-building as well as Woodstock has done since the original project we were part of,” said Cheri Morris, president of Morris and Fellows. “We are excited to partner with the city on the next transformational phase of downtown Woodstock and provide additional opportunities for businesses and consumers to join the already successful downtown.” The City Council decided to take Artist rendering of new hotel coming to Woodstock. Provided by Place Maker Design and Morris Fellows. the lead on the vision for this site due to development proposals that were incompatible with the existing fabric of downtown. The city closed on the 2.2acre Morgan’s Ace Hardware property, following its relocation in late 2021, for of a portion of East Main Street to Concept plans for the first phase of $3.8 million. Woodstock’s City Center project show the improve access in and out of the existing “The Woodstock City Center project commercial district. 4-acre site at the southeast corner of East represents a generational opportunity Infrastructure projects total more Main Street and Arnold Mill Road. The to add retail, office, hotel and critically than $5 million and are designed to area includes the former site of Morgan’s important parking and infrastructure improve vehicular and pedestrian access Ace Hardware and other vacant parcels to one of the most popular downtown to downtown. These include the Hub owned by the city and the Downtown destinations in Georgia,” Mayor Michael Transformation project and the recently Development Authority. Caldwell said. “I am excited to see our awarded Arnold Mill Streetscape project. The city of Woodstock recently released city’s skyline transform, and for the The private development partner, the long-awaited plans. The site will exciting benefits this will bring for every Morris and Fellows, was selected through feature a six-level, 647-car parking deck Woodstock resident and visitor.” with entrances on three levels, allowing a request for qualifications in 2015 for Work on portions of the infrastructure the entirety of City Center. The firm was for efficiencies in access and circulation related to City Center is anticipated the original commercial partner in the within the structure. Retail, office, living to begin in the next six months, with adjoining Woodstock Downtown mixedand entertainment space also are included project completion to take three years. use project, developed in the early 2000s. in the plans. The city will be unveiling a website for Morris and Fellows agreed to a letter Addressing traffic concerns is a information on this project shortly; it will of intent in February and will manage focus. In addition to the new structures, include leasing information and project construction of the public infrastructure improvements planned for public updates as they become available. To learn and build privately owned buildings that infrastructure include realignment of more about the city of Woodstock, go to feature additional retail, restaurant and Chambers Street and the elimination woodstockga.gov.
Next Phase Includes Hotel, Parking Deck, Retail, Offices and Restaurants
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Georgia Is On Our Mind! BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
At Woodstock Arts, we let our audience’s imagination travel everywhere. So far this year, we’ve explored a pirate’s journey, Greek heroes and gods, global inspiration through paintings and mixed media work, concerts from halfway around the world — it’s all been fun! But, this month is something special. We get to commemorate home, look inward and celebrate our great state of Georgia. As a multidisciplinary art center, we really can leverage all of the art forms to emphasize and celebrate the arts. And, what better way to wrap up the 2021-22 season than by celebrating our home state? Here's a look into what we have planned: First, the Lantern Series season wraps up with Georgia native Kyshona Armstrong on July 16. She began her career as a music therapist, writing her first songs with her patients — the students and inmates under her care. She soon felt the need to write independently and find her own voice. Since then, she has learned how to balance her music career with her passion to heal the hurting. Audiences will discover a common thread of empowerment, overcoming adversity and finding hope in her work. In visual arts, the Reeves House team has been working with artists across the state to produce a juried show. A juried show is adjudicated, and this exhibit had judges from other galleries, as well as the Atlanta Contemporary and Kennesaw State University visual art professors. While nearly 200 pieces from 75 different artists were submitted, only 42 pieces were accepted. The exhibit, “Home Grown: Artists from the Peach State” takes a look at explorations made by artists born or actively living in Georgia. Finally, Woodstock Arts Theatre is taking a journey with our young audiences, celebrating our state’s official fruit: the peach. In this case, a giant peach! Families, get ready to see the inspiring classic tale of “James and the Giant Peach” by Roald Dahl, July 13-27. The timeless children’s classic is presented as a musical on our stage, unfolding imagination and wonder, as the exploration of a lifetime inspires families to keep journeying and seeking adventure. There are so many things to celebrate, and we can’t wait to see you throughout the month at these shows, plus a few more fun opportunities. For the full list of activities, visit www.woodstockarts.org.
Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Woodstock Arts.
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Around & About 10 16 JULY
2 Pub Crawl 4
Celebrate Independence Day at the Star Spangled , 2-6 p.m., in downtown Woodstock. Crawl-goers are encouraged to visit participating restaurants, and enjoy food and beverage specials. https://visitwoodstockga.com/event-group/pub-crawls.
21
Woodstock’s 25th annual Freedom Run begins on Main St. at 7:15 a.m. woodstockfreedomrun.com.
The day concludes with fireworks at dusk behind the Lowe’s shopping center at Highway 92 and I-575. For traffic directions, visit www.woodstockga.gov.
Join the Ice Cream Social, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Eagle Watch grassy area on Clubhouse Drive in Woodstock. Bring new backpacks to support Give a Kid a Chance, and enjoy a cornhole tournament, bubble performer, sundae bar, barbecue, face painting and more. RSVP at https://bit.ly/3O6Kija. Registration is open for a Safe Sitter class, at Northside’s Cherokee Education Center in Woodstock, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Designed to teach students in grades 6-8 how to be safe when home alone, registration should be completed one week before the class. Fee is $40. Contact Lana Mayfield to register: lana.mayfield@northside. com or 678-388-6401. Visit Harry Potter Family Fun Night in downtown Woodstock, 5-9 p.m., for themed activities, a costume contest, trivia contest and a free movie on the Woodstock Arts Event Green. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.
The July 4th Spectacular kicks off with the parade at 10 a.m., starting at Woodstock Elementary on Rope Mill Road and traveling down Main Street to Sam’s Club at Highway 92. After the parade, stop by The Park at City Center, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., for a festival with food, children’s games, inflatables, arts and crafts, a DJ and vendors.
Shop locally made goods at Maker’s Mash, a pop-up shop featuring local artisans, the second Sunday of the month, 1-6 p.m., at Reformation Brewery in Woodstock. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.
AUGUST
6 Lemonade Day
, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., is a free event at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks building, 7545 Main St., in Woodstock. Rising third- through fifth-graders will learn how to start, own and operate their own business with a lemonade stand. Register at https://lemonadeday.org/ cherokee-county.
6 Unwind Wednesday
is the first Wednesday of every month through October, 5:30-8 p.m., at Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton. Featuring a variety of food trucks, live music and more, the event will be fun for the whole family. www.playcherokee.org.
13 5K 20 Photo courtesy of Cherokee Recreation and Parks. 58
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
The ninth annual Chick-fil-A Moo’ve It is back at Etowah River Park in Canton. The race begins at 8 a.m. and is an official qualifying event for the Peachtree Road Race. To register, visit cfamooveit.com.
The Gallop and Go 5K is set for 8 a.m. at First Baptist Church Woodstock. Check for more details at www.beats-inc.org.
RECREATION
THEATER
woodstockparksandrec.com // 770-592-6000, Ext. 1955 Registration is required for all programs.
www.cherokeetheatre.org
Woodstock Parks and Recreation
July 1
Join America Rocks, 11 a.m., at the Park at City Center, to paint river rocks and distribute them throughout the city. Paint and supplies are provided. The activity is free, but registration is required.
July 6, 20
Discovering Pickleball is a class for ages 18 and older that gets you ready to play pickleball — and you will, by the end of the session. Equipment is provided. The class is taught at 6:30 p.m. at the Dupree Park pickleball courts. Fee: $5.
July 9, 23
Discovering Paddleboarding, 10 a.m., at 6983 Bells Ferry Road, is led by
Michael Murphy and his staff from Murph’s Surf. Participants will learn about water safety and paddleboarding basics on Allatoona Lake. Fee: $49.95.
July 16
Join Amped in the Park With Strive Fitness, 9 a.m., for a free outdoor workout at the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater. Stop by the Gazebo in the Park at City Center, 11 a.m., for a free Storytime Live! With Captain Marvel.
July 27
Discovering Pickleball for Kids begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Dupree Park pickleball courts. For ages 8-17, the hourlong class is designed to introduce kids to the sport. Fee: $5.
William G. Long Senior Center Programs woodstockparksandrec.com // 678-445-6518 Age minimum for all programs is 50. Registration is required.
July 1
The Fourth of July Barbecue Hoedown, noon-2 p.m., will feature music, dancing, burgers and birthday cake. Fee: $10.
July 7
Join Mats for Vets Volunteer Day, 2-4 p.m., to help cut bags and crochet mats for homeless veterans.
July 14
Take a day trip to Chattanooga for a lunch cruise. The tour bus will leave the center at 9 a.m. Fee $65.
July 20
Kayak Allatoona Lake and enjoy a picnic sack lunch at the marina, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fee: $39.
Cherokee Theatre Company
Aug. 12-14, 19-21
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by
William Shakespeare. Directed by Ed Palombo. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.
Oct. 21-23, 28-30
“A Party to Murder” by Marcia Kash and Douglas E. Hughes. Directed by Jeannie and Wally Hinds. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.
Woodstock Arts www.woodstockarts.org
Through Aug. 21
“Home Grown: Artists From the Peach State” is a juried exhibit in the Reeves House,
highlighting Georgia artists and their work.
July 13-27
“James and the Giant Peach” follows a boy on an epic journey, which begins when he discovers a magic potion that results in a tremendous peach. Recommended for all audiences.
July 15
In less than 3 hours, local artists will create a piece of art on the spot that will be raffled off at the end of the night. Beginning at 6 p.m. at the Reeves House.
July 22
iThink Improv begins at 8 p.m. and is ready
to get its audiences rolling down the aisles with laughter. Recommended for ages 10-plus (content).
July 23
The Lasting Laugh is a comedy series that brings in Atlanta-based comedians monthly, with Jessica It's All Good as the host. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Recommended for ages 12-plus (content).
July 29
On the last Friday of each month, sit under the stars and enjoy live music at Jazz Night. Tables and chairs are provided; the outdoor bar will be stocked, and music will be flowing, 6-9 p.m., on the back porch at the Reeves House.
July 21
Play bingo at the center, 4-6 p.m. Fee: $5.
July 26
Tube the Etowah and picnic at the Mill on Etowah, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fee: $25.
July 27
Movie Tavern Day Trip is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Call for the movie title. Fee: $15. TOWNELAKER | July 2022
59
Around & About
continued
NETWORKING
Woodstock Business Club
Meets weekly, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm St., Woodstock. Follow on Facebook.
Fresh Start Cherokee @ The Circuit
1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 770-345-0600 // www.circuitwoodstock.com/events.
1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC) Cherokee Held in person and on Facebook Live, the free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build start-up communities on a grassroots level. For upcoming events, visit the Fresh Start Cherokee Facebook page. Photo courtesy of the city of Woodstock.
MUSIC
www.inwdstk.org.
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
Morning INfluence
Lantern Series
YPOW AM
The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com. July 9: Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors Aug. 13: Black Jacket Symphony — Hotel California Sept. 10: Scotty McCreery At the Woodstock Arts Event Green; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org. July 2: Sub-Radio July 16: Kyshona Armstrong Aug. 27: Croce Plays Croce Sept. 24: The RT’s Oct. 8: Gina Chavez Oct. 29: Mountain Heart
Canton First Friday
The monthly block party, sponsored by the Canton Main Street Program, runs 6-9 p.m. in downtown Canton. www.cantonga.gov. On Facebook. July 1: Emerald Empire Band (Show runs until 10 p.m.) Aug. 5: Bumpin’ the Mango Sept. 2: Kinchafoonee Cowboys Oct. 7: On the Border — the Ultimate Eagles Tribute
River Rock Summer Concert Series
Bring your family, friends, lawn chair and coolers to Etowah River Park amphitheater, 6-10 p.m., for a free concert. www.cantonga.gov/events. July 16: Smokey Jones and the 3 Dollar Pistols Aug. 27: Electric Avenue 60
IN WDSTK
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
Breakfast is served at the Morning INfluence the last Friday of every month, 8-9 a.m. Morning INfluence is a networking event, which includes a brief presentation focusing on updates given by Greater Woodstock on important issues or services offered that affect the community. RSVP is required; seating is limited. Join Young Professionals of Woodstock, 7-8:30 a.m., Thursdays at The Circuit, for coffee and networking that features an informal chat with a local leader. RSVP is required; seating is limited.
FARMERS MARKETS
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market is open 8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Dec. 31. The market is located downtown, on Market Street and in Reformation Brewery’s backyard. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.
Farmers Market at River Church
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through October at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.
Canton Farmers Market
is open for the season in Brown Park and continues weekly, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct. 15. https://bit.ly/3w3RTco.
Ball Ground Farmers & Makers Market is every other Saturday, through Aug. 20, 9 a.m.-noon at City Park in Ball Ground. On Facebook.
What’s Happening at Your Library?
BY JOHN RODGERS
Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) kicked off summer learning June 1 with more than 1,000 pre-registered readers on Beanstack (the online portal where adults, teens and children can log their library reading to earn rewards), and that was before summer even started! Since then, hundreds of families have set sail to their local library to participate in Oceans of Possibilities: dozens of all-ages events that don’t cost a dime. If you haven’t dropped by your library to enjoy a program, log your summer reading or take advantage of fine-free summer (materials returned to the library won’t have overdue fees), the fun continues for a whole 'nother month. Many library users know about the SRLS family of experience passes, which can be borrowed using a library card and redeemed for free or reduced cost admission to places like Zoo Atlanta, more than 60 state parks and historic sites, Atlanta’s Center for Puppetry Arts and more. For families interested in adding a little culture to their summer, there’s a new experience pass that grants up to four free tickets to select performances at the Alliance Theatre. This pass is available just in time for “The Incredible Book Eating Boy,” a family-friendly musical, which runs July 13-Aug. 14, inspired by Oliver Jefferies’ book by the same name.
Others looking to record a title to their Beanstack reading log before summer ends can enjoy a popular historical fiction novel without having to wait in a request line. As part of The Big Library Read, the e-book and audiobook, “The Girl in His Shadow” by Audrey Blake, will be available without any limits — in other words, no holds or wait list! To check out digital books and audiobooks, visit sequoyah.overdrive.com. It’s hard to believe back-to-school season is almost here. Remember, Cherokee County School District and Georgia Cyber Academy students can use their lunch number to borrow physical and digital materials from SRLS without a library card, and without overdue fees. During back-toschool registration, parents and caregivers can enroll their student for the library’s EZ Student Access Program on the electronic enrollment portal on the Cherokee County School District’s or Georgia Cyber Academy’s website. To get started, head over to sequoyahregionallibrary.org/students, and enjoy the rest of your summer!
John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.
TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the TowneLaker magazine!
Advertisers July 2022
ACCOUNTING & TAXES Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
CREDIT UNIONS 31
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com
47
Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext. 306 www.debranski.com
9
AUTOMOTIVE Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
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Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
21
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
FUNERAL SERVICES 17, 53
LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org
13
(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)
Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com
HAIR SALON Clark Salon & Spa 770-479-0052 www.clarksalon.com
DENTAL
Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com
Woodstock Funeral Home 25 and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com
1
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Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 51 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com
Cover, 32-33
HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Big Oak Enterprises, LLC 678-721-4959
30
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
5
Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
7
Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com
64
Dr. Fahrenheit HVAC 770-926-6773 www.drfahrenheithvac.com
25
IN WDSTK www.inwdstk.org
53
Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
43
Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
18
Findlay Roofing 770-516-5806 www.roofroof.com
19
Nesnick Total Health 770-516-2323 www.nesnicktotalhealth.com
Hawk’s Nest Gaming 11 470-346-9864 hawksnestgaming.tcgplayerpro.com
26
Paradise Rental Boats 7 678-737-3005 www.bestinboating.com/boat-rentals
Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
31
Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com Towne Lake Family Chiropractic
45
Woodstock Arts 678-494-4251 www.woodstockarts.org
Kura Home Maintenance 888-858-5872 www.kurahome.com
CHIROPRACTIC
770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com
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57
FITNESS/HEALTH
CLEANING Collette's Cleaning Crews 404-353-3980 www.collettescleaningcrews.com
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT
17
R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
35
Eastridge Plumbing 770-516-2977 www.eastridgeplumbing.com
9
1
PebbleStone 678-807-8618 www.pebblestonepros.com
18
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
51
RPM Landscape and Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
5
Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
7
INSURANCE Alfa Insurance Jeff Beachler, 770-558-1612 www.alfainsurance.com
35
LAND AUCTION Absolute Auction 888-861-0999 www.internationalauctionllc.com
49
LANDSCAPING Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
21
OPTOMETRY Georgia Eye Partners www.gaeyepartners.com
43
Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com
39
PHOTOGRAPHERS Red Baryl Portraits 815-540-0936
49
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
Digestive Healthcare of Georgia Woodstock: 404-425-5570 www.digestivehealthcare.net
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Gyro Aegean Grill 770-485-5236 www.gyroaegengrill.com
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill 5 C: 678-634-5581 O: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Tomlinson Team 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
31
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 45 Woodstock/South Cherokee office 770-517-2150 www.woodstock.bhhsgeorgia.com Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
11
11
RETAILERS Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net
5
Southern Sky Home 404-909-2526 www.southernskyhome.com
11
Southern Sky Home Outlet 404-842-8411 www.southernskyoutlet.com
41
The Artists Next Door, LLC 678-622-1421 www.theartistnextdoorllc.com
1
Keller Williams, Ursula & Assoc. Back Cover Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com RE/MAX Town & Country Sarah Terrell 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
RESTAURANTS
9
SENIOR SERVICES St. George Village 678-987-0409 www.stgeorgevillage.org
3
SPECIALTY FOOD/CATERING The Butcher and A Baker 770-517-2225
9
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
41
AbbyCare Inside Cover 404-549-6886 www.iloveabbycare.com
We have a place in the homes of our community.
For advertising rates and information | Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com
AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM TOWNELAKER | July 2022
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Financing Options • No Interest
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FREE CONSULTATION on replacements. 5 -Year Labor Warranty! 770-336-7888 | 4185 Cantrell Road, Acworth | Daycosystems.com
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TOWNELAKER | July 2022
