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Four Convenient Locations: We are a full-service vascular surgery and endovascular therapy practice that specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins and arteries. Our compassionate, board-certified physicians, Dr. Catalin Harbuzariu, Dr. Edward Kang, Dr. Siddharth Patel, and Dr. Brooks Whitney bring years of experience working at some of the leading institutions in the field, and offer minimally-invasive, state-ofthe-art procedures to treat the entire scope of vascular diseases, from the simplest to the most complex. We offer four convenient locations to serve the communities throughout Greater Atlanta and North Georgia. We offer state-of-the-art care in providing the full-spectrum of vascular and endovascular services for:
• Aortic Aneurysms • Carotid Disease
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980 Johnson Ferry Rd. Suite 1040 Atlanta, GA 30342 770-292-3490 5671 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. Suite 620 Atlanta, GA 30342 678-369-5454 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 100 Canton, GA 30115 770-292-3490 1505 Northside Blvd. Suite 2400 Cumming, GA 30342 770-292-3490
NVS-GA.com AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Contents
32 & 33 On the Cover Crossfire Volleyball
Photo by Rebekah Gregg
18
48
28
In Every Issue
Features
Contributors
18 Turning the Tables
4 Around Canton
34 Don Akridge
8 Community News
47 Christopher Brazelton
Never mind the students; teachers tell us what they did on summer vacation.
12 Downtown Canton Events
20 Hospital Construction
10 Celebrations
Northside Cherokee CEO Billy Hayes gives update, shares plans for growth.
17
Mike Carswell
16 Ribbon Cuttings
38 Rev. Joseph Cousin
22 Calendar
43 Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry
24 Everyday Angels
20 Candi Hannigan
28 Artistic Impact
26 Rob’s Rescues
To celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month, Ann Litrel introduces us to local artists.
31 Downtown Canton Dining Guide 40 Library Events
46 Dan Jape
52 School News
54 Joseph Lemmo
48 Back to School Bash
58 Clubs & Orgs
62 Directory of Advertisers
Give a Kid a Chance serves 2,700 students during the 12th year of helping others.
60 Churches
50 Barbara P. Jacoby
44 Dr. Sarah Licht 28 Ann Litrel 42 Dr. Michael Litrel 44 Dr. Scott Merritt 50 Matt Neal
Advertising
38 Lynne Saunders
Katherine Amick, Market Manager 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundCantonMagazine.com @AroundCantonMagazine
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
@AroundCantonMag
39 Susan Schulz 36 Scot Turner @around_canton
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
3
AROUND CANTON The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Canton/ Holly Springs/ Sixes
From the Editor If you scroll down the Facebook page of Give a Kid a Chance (GAKAC) - Cherokee, you’ll see nothing but smiles in the photos of happy children receiving free school supplies, relieved parents glad for the financial help, and the volunteers who make it all happen. Behind the volunteers’ smiles, however, are hundreds of hours of hard work: counting pencils, sorting clothes, packing backpacks, rounding up donations ... too many tasks to name. When you see those smiles, you are seeing the hearts of those tireless workers. The blessing of helping the underserved outshines the beads of sweat and the aching muscles. Just a few weeks ago, 2,700 backpacks were given to Cherokee County students, who also chose Marlan Yoder with his benevolent art new books, stuffed animals, nearly-new clothing, project. Photo courtesy His Hands Church. and received haircuts and health screenings at a back-to-school bash. See pages 48-49. Since 2006, the nonprofit has distributed more than 30,000 brand new, filled backpacks. When my friend Cheryl Ruffer and I started GAKAC by rallying three churches to help 100 children that first year, we knew the project was bigger than the two of us, because everything fell into place so effortlessly. Interest grew for that next year, and MUST Ministries asked if we could support their clients by filling 1,000 backpacks. Each year’s turnout has been greater, growing in numbers of volunteers and recipients. When the time came for us to turn over the leadership, we were reminded that this was not about us. Amy Cadarette and Cory Steinberg stepped up and continue to do a fantastic job. This sense of community and helping others is strong in our compassionate county. Look at the effort of Marlan Yoder, who leads an art group at His Hands Church in Woodstock. He hand painted 300 lunch bags, each one unique, so the children on the MUST Ministries summer lunch route will know just how special they are. It’s such a small gesture, but so meaningful. More than many of us can even imagine. MUST’s Greg Elder remembers the time a mom invited him into her home to see a collection of lunch bags that her family preserved and used as wall decorations. The love is evident in the response to our Everyday Angels feature. The nonprofit’s director told me the monthly response often is overwhelming; at one point, a $25,000 donation was given by a single individual for a particular need. See page 24 for the August feature. Lynne Saunders’ desire to help others turned into Papa’s Pantry, a successful nonprofit celebrating 20 years of service this month. The first public pantry was located in Canton, however, the ministry, that she squeezed in during evenings and on weekends, soon turned into a fulltime job and outgrew the old converted Canton home. Now located in Woodstock, Papa’s Pantry continues to ensure stability in financially insecure homes. See page 38. Whether it’s transporting thousands of backpacks, or painting one brown bag for a sack lunch, the impact can be immeasurable. We don’t need to know the outcome, necessarily. We just need to be faithful to do what we can to help.
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Canton. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
What’s New Hobby Lobby, located at 2449 Cumming Highway, Canton, held its grand opening event July 2. The Canton store is Hobby Lobby’s 43rd location in Georgia. Planet Fitness has opened at 2243 Cumming Highway, Suite 108. For hours and more details, visit the gym’s Facebook page. Relentless Sports Academy
was scheduled to open Aug. 1 in Holly Springs, according to the company’s website. The 10,000-square-foot indoor sports performance center will include six batting cages, a 70-foot pitching lane, and a 50-foot by 120-foot turf field. www.relentlessga.com.
New Life Church Spanish ministry launched on Aug. 5 at
New Life Church, 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton. Bilingual services will be held on Sundays at 3 p.m. For more information, call 706-581-6679.
What’s Coming Panera Bread announced in a press release that the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the new Canton store, located at 205 West Main St., will take place Aug. 13. The location will include a drive through, outdoor seating, Rapid Pick Up and catering. “We are thrilled to open our newest bakerycafe in Canton,” Owner/Operator Marianne Harris said.
What’s Changed According to their Facebook page, the Steep Tea House has closed its Canton location and is relocating to Nashville, Tenn. Owner Lyn Moye stated in a video on the company’s homepage, “We’re going to miss our staff and all our loyal customers here in Canton.”
Perimeter North
Medical Associates
Welcoming New Patients! A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Mian is a board-certified physician in family medicine who is proud to serve the families of Canton and North Georgia with the highest standard of care. Dr. Mian works alongside our experienced nurse practitioner, Leslie Jackson NP-C, serving each patient with the time, attention and personalized care you and your family deserve. We offer early office hours for your busy schedule, same-day appointments for sick visits and a convenient, new location in the BridgeMill Community.
Haroon Mian, M.D.
Services: • Care for patients aged 2 and older • Chronic disease management and acute illness care • Physical exams for school and sports participation • Immunizations for children and adults
NEW Location! 10515 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 200 Canton, GA 30114 Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 770-395-1130 to schedule an appointment PNFM.com
Leslie Jackson, NP-C
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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COMMUNITY BOARD
The Around Canton Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine and advisors who offer valuable feedback.
Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married
Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She was recently named the public outreach manager for the city of Canton, and continues to volunteer on numerous boards and committees. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren.
Dr. Christopher Alvey, an Owensboro, KY native,
graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, and earned a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 1988. He has owned and operated Cobb Central and Mobile Vet Services, and provided medical and surgical services as a relief veterinarian until he opened BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. Dr. Alvey and wife Kathy have two children, Jake and Madison, four dogs (Bogey, Allie, Lu-Lu and LeRoy) and two cats (Cartman and Aubie).
Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator. She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for more than 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well.
Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of
Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and lives in Woodstock with her son and daughter. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children.
Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Purposeful Play of Georgia, an organization that celebrates kindness and equips young leaders. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the executive board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. Dr. Oliver “Ollie” Evans is the chiropractor at Holly
Springs Chiropractic and Massage. The Cherokee county native attended Holly Springs and Sixes elementary schools and Woodstock Middle and High schools. His secondary education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and health science from Kennesaw State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Dr. Ollie serves as the team doctor for the KSU ice hockey team, is a USA hockey referee, and very involved in the CrossFit community. Dr. Ollie also serves on the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation and several other charity boards. 6
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Manager Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton, Holly Springs and Sixes areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 24,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 800 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 64 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Canton 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 2018. Around Canton
1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189
For Advertising: Katherine Amick Katherine@aroundaboutmagazines.com or 678-279-5502
Volume 6, Issue 5
America’s Community Magazine
Expert Surgical Care for Cherokee County
MEDICAL ASSOCIATES of NORTH GEORGIA
320 Hospital Road, Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-5535 Medassoc.com
.
Dr. Kevin Powell is a board-certified expert in General Surgery who brings nearly a decade of experience to the Medical Associates of North Georgia. Dr. Powell provides the empathetic care you deserve in a convenient location, and uses state-of-theart laparoscopic and robotic procedures to treat abdominal, soft tissue, and thyroid disorders that range from the simplest to the most complex.
Dr. Powell offers treatments for: • • • • • •
Gallbladder and Biliary Disease Hernias Skin and Soft Tissue Breast Disease Small and Large Bowell Processes Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
7
COMMUNITY
YOUR LOCAL NEWS
Firefighter Toughest in Age Division Cherokee County Firefighter, Sgt. Rick Ehlke, won the Toughest Firefighter competition in his age division at the Georgia Police and Fire Games recently. Firefighters participated in a series of events, including a high rise pack carry, hose hoist with a 42-pound donut roll of a 3-inch hose, forcible entry by driving a 160-pound steel sled with a 9-pound mallet, hose advance and victim rescue. The 50-year-old Ehlke won first place in the 50-54 age bracket with a time of 3:13. In 2013, Ehlke won the overall competition by beating every age category with a time of 2:31. The games began in 1984 when Officer Firefighter Rick Ehlke James Perry of the Carrollton Police Department read about other state games. Perry approached Jim Herbert, then with the Carrollton Parks and Recreation Department, and outlined his idea for the games. Together, they worked with the city manager’s office and obtained approval and financial backing. Since the game’s inaugural competition in June 1985, they have grown from fewer than 300 to more than 1,000 participants, and participation grows every year.
Mentoring Opportunities Available Healing Hands Youth Ranch will begin a series of 10 mentoring sessions, each 90 minutes, on Aug. 20. The nonprofit helps children ages 10-18 who are struggling emotionally, being bullied at school, or lacking in confidence. By pairing the child with a mentor and a rescue horse, children learn to build healthy relationships, communicate effectively and develop leadership qualities. To learn more, call 404-662-6898, email admin@HHYR.org, or visit www.HHYR.org.
No Smoking Area Expanded Canton officials have amended the municipal ordinance that expands the areas of the city where smoking is prohibited, including the use of e-cigarettes. The updates in Ordinance No. 2018-0514-04 state no smoking is allowed (including e-cigarettes) in or on: • City buildings • City sidewalks • City parks • City playgrounds • City parking lots • Streets within downtown Canton (Central Business District, as defined by the Canton Unified Development Code and Zoning Map) Warnings will be issued initially, but a first violation will be subject to a fine of up to $50. A second offense within a calendar year could be subject to a fine of up to $100, and a third offense could be subject to a fine of $250. A map that outlines the area is available at www.cantonga.gov. 8
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Cherokee Improvements Part of ARC Plan
Several Cherokee County projects are earmarked for the $5.4 million recently approved by the Atlanta Regional Commission Board for transportation projects. According to www.atlantaregional. org, key projects include: • Noonday Creek Trail Extension: Noonday Creek Trail will be extended from Highway 92 into Cobb County to connect with Noonday Creek Park and the Cobb County trail system. • Highway 92/Alabama Road Intersection Improvements: Addresses regional congestion and mobility improvements by adding dual left turn lanes along Trickum Road at the Highway 92 intersection. • I-575 interchange improvements: A scoping study is planned to determine how to address congestion and safety issues at two interchanges on I-575: Ridgewalk Parkway and Towne Lake Parkway. ARC developed the list while consulting with local governments to meet the Cherokee County community’s greatest needs, according to the website. All projects are scheduled to be under construction by 2023, with funding from federal, state and local sources. The Cherokee projects are among more than 100 across the region funded as part of an update to the short-term portion of ARC’s Regional Transportation Plan, The Atlanta Region’s Plan, at a total cost of $400 million. The ARC board approved the update June 27. “These projects address some of the most significant local transportation needs and will help people get where they need to go safely and efficiently,” said Doug Hooker, ARC Executive Director. “The $400 million project list is part of $7 billion dollars of improvements that are already planned or under construction through 2023. Many of these are large freeway projects, such as Express lanes on I-75 and I-575 in Cobb and Cherokee counties, and a massive rebuild of the I-285/Ga. 400 interchange. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 10-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties, as well as the City of Atlanta and 72 other cities. For more project details, visit www.atlantaregional.org.
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Celebrations!
Gram Schroeder
Happy 9th Birthday, Colin!
We are so proud of you! Love, Mommy, Daddy, and Keeley
August 2 Happy first birthday to our answered prayer − our sweet boy, who has brought so much joy and love to our home. Grateful parents, Pete and Corinne and big sister Alice.
Happy birthday, Veer!
5 years on July 13 You make every second of everyday so deliciously sweet, as only you can! Happy birthday, our dearest Veer! Papa, Mummy, Dada, Dadi, Saanvi and Blueyee
Wynnelle McLeroy August 25 Happy 100th Birthday
Happy 15th birthday, Madeline!
July 18 So beautiful inside and out. Love you, Mom, Dad, Madison and Bella
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
Celebrating August Birthdays at The Lodge at BridgeMill
Front row, seated, from left: Tom Mulloy, Margaret Hunt, Jim Forbes, Virginia Mille, Phillip Kennard and Mary Ann Drews. Back row, standing: Barbara Fenimore, Kitty Entwisle, Anne Marie Levin (dark pink top), Barbara Howard (light pink top), Bob Webster, Norma Hockensmith, Richard Becker, Jane Raming, Bob Chester and Nancy Burgin. Camera shy celebrant: Goldie Weiss.
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
E-mail to: Jackie@ AroundaboutMagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 10. Please specify Around Canton.
SPORTS MEDICINE EXPERTS AT YOUR SERVICE.
If you’re active and into sports you’re probably familiar with sprains, tears and overuse injuries. So are we. Northside Hospital Cherokee Sports Medicine Program has a team of experts who can help you get back on the court, field or track. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Sports.
AROUND CANTON |
August 2018
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IN Town
Canton Canton Theatre
171 E. Main St. 770-704-0755 • www.cantontheatre.org
Through Aug. 12: “The Foreigner,” a fast-paced comedy. Tickets are $15 for students and $18 for adults. www. cantontheatre.com. Aug. 25: Independent Movie Night with Georgia writers, directors and producers. Showing at 8 p.m. All seats are $12.
First Fridays Canton Main Street hosts a party in downtown Canton on the first Friday of each month, 6-9 p.m., featuring live music, a car show, food and activities for the entire family.
Sept. 7: ’80s Night with music by The Breakfast Club. Oct. 5: Jeep Night, with music by Skipper Grace.
AUGUST Concert in the Park. The band, Local Legends, 11 will perform 6-9 p.m. in Brown Park. This is the
replacement date for June First Friday, which was canceled due to bad weather.
Novel Idea meets 7-9 p.m. at East Main Café 15 A(inside Audio Intersection) 210 E. Main St. The
August theme is science fiction/fantasy, and authors will be on site to share their stories of the rising sea level, vampires, werewolves, witches and wizards rule the world, a woman who hears the ocean talking to her, parallel worlds, an interstellar space odyssey, and an intriguing new look at Goldilocks. This event is free and open to the public. The café has sandwiches, wraps and salads. BYOB. Door prizes!
The Sept. 19 gathering will feature a Southern writer’s theme with authors: Regina Bradley, “Boondock Kollage: Stories from the Hip Hop South”; Kathy Florence, “Jaybird’s Song”; Ray Atkins, “Set List”; Deborah Mantella, “My Sweet Vidalia”; Janet Chapman, “Madam May: A Tale of Madams, Morphine, Moonshine, and Murder,” and Maryann Hopper, “Don’t Let the Flies In.”
in the Park, in Canton’s Brown Park, start 25 atMovies dusk. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy a
movie on a big screen with a backdrop of the historic City Hall. Sponsored by Northside Hospital, Southern Outdoor Cinema, Covenant Christian Academy and the city of Canton. The featured movie is “Sherlock Gnomes.”
Downtown Canton Cornhole Fall League begins in Cannon Park on Sept. 4. Registration is open through Aug. 27 for the fall league, a seven-week season that meets on Tuesdays. The season will end with a tournament with a championship trophy and other prizes. Toss some bags and brews with CornholeATL in Canton. Fun for all levels of play. Visit www.cornholeatl.com for more details. 12
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Governors Med Spa Now Introducing...
Save the Date AQ UAG O L D E V E N T Before
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Thursday, Aug. 23 5:00-7:00 pm
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Live demos, door prizes, and huge savings for attendees Hollywood’s newest facial! Results within 24 hours that last up to 3 months
Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and let our trained staff assist you in selecting a medical plan and aesthetic services that will help you reach your health and body goals for 2018! Check out our website for a full list of all medical and aesthetic services www.governorsmedicine.com. AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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IN Town
Waleska
Falany Performing Arts Center 770-720-9167• www.reinhardt.edu/fpac/
Sept. 7: The Gina Clowes Project at 7:30 p.m. Recent album debuted No. 13 on the Bluegrass Billboard chart.
City’s Newest Structure City Clerk Robyn Smith shared this photo of the city’s new gazebo, installed next to city hall and available for weddings.
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting The Magnolia Salon and Spa
423 Bartow St., Waleska, 770-224-6502, www.themagspa.com
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Waleska Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays at Heritage Fellowship, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway.
Premier Senior Living Community
The luxury you deserve, the value and choice you want. The Lodge at BridgeMill fosters a dynamic, carefree senior lifestyle with everything right at your doorstep. Enjoy spacious apartments with a full calendar of activities, putting green, hot tub, and much more!
Luxury • Value • Choice Call Today! ( 770 ) 479 - 4639 • • • • •
No buy-in fees Physical therapist on site Convenient on-site dining Maintenance-free living Spa with seasonal pool
TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com Facebook.com/TheLodgeAtBridgeMill
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24-hour concierge services Access controlled entry Transportation services Supportive services available Fitness programs
10451 Bells Ferry Road Canton, GA 30114 AROUND CANTON | August 2018
15
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce
3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
EVENT CALENDAR Sept. 6
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast
7 a.m. breakfast meetings offer both current and future Chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. August sponsor is Darby Funeral Home. September sponsor is Reinhardt University. Advance single registration: $17. On-site registration: $22. Future member: $30.
1
Aug. 15
B.L.A.S.T.T. workshop: Navigating the ADA/FMLA Minefield, presented by Brad Adler, Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP.
Aug. 16
Power Hour, 10-11 a.m. Networking with fellow business owners.
2
Aug. 21
SchmoozaPalooza, a Business Networking Party! 4-7 p.m. at Woodstock
City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway. Fun and casual networking environment. Exhibitors will have a table-top display that will allow them to promote their business and make new contacts while attendees will enjoy door prizes, food and fun while previewing the latest products and services featured at SchmoozaPalooza. Admission is free and open to the public.
3
Aug. 23
CPR/AED Training, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at
the chamber office. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. $45.
RIBBON CUTTINGS 1. Joy’s House Cleaning Service 1039 BridgeMill Ave., Canton 678-787-9082 2. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. 2449 Cumming Highway, Canton 770-721-1770 3. Planet Fitness Canton 2243 Cumming Highway, Suite 108, Canton 678-880-8113 16
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Aug. 29
Leadership Symposium, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. One-day conference features four speakers who will share thought-provoking information to be used both on the job and in life. Cost includes continental breakfast, lunch and two networking breaks. Register by noon Aug. 28. $50 members; $75 future members.
IN Town
Holly Springs Small Town Proud BY CHIEF MIKE CARSWELL
Chief Carswell began his tenure with the city of Holly Springs with 26 years of public service behind him; he was sworn in as the Chief of Police on Dec. 5, 2016. “If you ever want to amount to anything, you’ll have to move to the city.” At a time when many smaller communities are in crisis, and higher-thinkers are telling populations to abandon their homes to find economic opportunity elsewhere, I couldn’t be happier to call Small Town America my home. “I’m not talking about a place that hides from the world, creating a cultural prison or keeping business, trade and enterprise at bay. I am talking about a way of life that many believe is too slow and old-fashioned. “In our town, the simple phrase of ‘I belong’ takes on a different meaning. Here you’re not part of a community group - you are the community group. And the group is strong with church, family and local neighborhood get-togethers to rely upon; so strong that after a while name tags are no longer needed. That’s my kind of social group. “Officers of the Holly Springs Police Department (HSPD) often encounter people who are in need. Too often when assistance is needed, folks are herded into a government program or process. which is faceless and cold. So many times, though, HSPD finds family and neighbors acting selflessly to support the hurting – delivering food, clothing children, cleaning up the mess and so much more. They are living out the conviction that we look out for each other because it’s the right thing to do. “Small Town America - that’s a phrase that gets tossed around a lot these days, but in Holly Springs, it really means something. And I intend to keep living it.”
Want to be a Vendor at Autumn Fest? Applications are being accepted to participate in the 15th annual event, set for 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 6 at Barrett Park in Holly Springs. Vendor space starts at $25, and is available to artists and crafters of handmade items, and children’s area exhibitors. Food vendors also needed. Applications are due Sept. 7, and can be found at www.hollyspringsga.us/autumnfest. Sponsors also are needed; please contact Erin Honea at ehonea@ hollyspringsga.us or 770-345-5536 for more information.
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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We turned the tables on Cherokee County teachers, asking them: What did you do on your summer vacation? We felt somewhat guilty, interrupting their relaxing respite to fulfill our assignment … but, they tackled the project with enthusiasm, and they all deserve an A+. We hope you’ll enjoy reading their answers!
S ummer V acation Heidi Switzer
Asher Kelsey
Summer is an opportunity for teachers to rest and recuperate from the previous school year, while preparing for the year to come. At least, we attempt to prepare for the year to come, in between sleeping, traveling and spending time with the people we rarely see during the year. This summer, for me, was no exception. My summer included lots of naps, summer Switzer having fun with The Bean walks and good conversation Heidi in Chicago. with family and friends. I also love to travel, and try to take at least one trip every year. To kick off this summer, I chaperoned a group of high school students from my church as we traveled to Gatlinburg, Tenn. We tubed, hiked and worshiped together amid the gorgeous Smoky Mountains. My second destination of the summer was Chicago. Getting on an airplane, seeing people near and dear to me, and visiting the Windy City was wonderfully refreshing. Of course, The Bean was mandatory (it’s still there and still shiny in case you were wondering), and, although it started to rain, we still were able to admire the Navy Pier. There were gorgeous buildings, breathtaking waterways and yummy food, all with amazing people. It was quite an experience. Between my two trips, I was fortunate to take a Director’s Boot Camp at the Cobb Energy Center. This boot camp allowed me to hear from theatrical professionals on how to effectively direct a musical. There is not a musical scheduled this season at WMS, but, who knows, keep your eyes peeled for 2020. I received instruction on choreography, music, lighting and sound. Inspiration abounded, as professionals sat together and talked about their passions. My summer has been one adventure after another and I’ve loved every minute of it!
My summer has been delightful. My wife is also a teacher and we don’t have kids, so every day of vacation is an unqualified miracle. We managed a trip to the beach, but we’ve both really focused on catching up with our outside reading. I try to model lifelong learning for my students; I think it’s important they Asher Kelsey see me constantly challenging myself academically in the way I challenge them. Accordingly, I’ve been lapping up and wrestling with Bloom’s “The Western Canon,” Russell’s “Principia Mathematica,” Auden, and some blind spots in the O’Connor collection. I’ve also, like everyone, been much too acquainted with Netflix. Would I like to continue watching? Yes, Netflix. When have I ever refused you? To fill in the gaps, here’s a list of mental snapshots from my vacation I can’t seem to shake: handing diplomas to a group of well-deserving recipients (whom I already miss); waiting on a birthday steak (order it Pittsburgh charred!) at my favorite establishment; discovering my cable provider is VERY willing to negotiate pricing; finding a 20-dollar bill; realizing I’ll never be able to spend it, its molasses face washed and dried beyond recognition; swapping ideas over dinner with an old friend; eavesdropping on a conversation between a long-married couple in a coffee shop (they’re still in love, it seems); listening to a doctor say words I’ve wished to hear; standing at the edge of my neighborhood pool before my first swim of the season in too-cold water; thinking I might wait another week for the temperature to rise; diving in.
Drama teacher Woodstock Middle School
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Sequoyah HS Literature and film teacher (9th and 11th)
Sean Furilla
Director of bands Teasley Middle School My summer vacation began June 1 with our family vacation to St. Augustine and Flagler Beach, Fla., for a week. I’ve had five goals and focus points for my summer. 1. Family time with my wife and three daughters. We spent time laughing, riding bikes, exercising, enjoying the outdoors and spending quality time together. 2. Helping at my wife’s business, Practically Perfect Day Spa and Salon, in downtown Canton. She’s coming up on her eight-year anniversary of being open. 3. Time visiting and talking with extended family. I’m passionate about my family history and its research. My family is spread out across the U.S., and I’m doing my best to reconnect everyone through our stories and lives. 4. Improvement of my craft and life. Reading great motivational books on leadership and music. Writing goals and objectives for my future. Reflecting on where my life has been, and where it’s heading. 5. School prep for the coming year. The band world started up in mid-July. Before school started, I spent many days in the band room, repairing and cleaning instruments, updating inventory, and beginning to create a framework for the coming 2018-19 year. This summer has given me so very much to be thankful for, as well as a clear, fresh perspective as we kick off the new school year!
Pictured from left: Brittany, Brooke, Agnes Rose and Lisa, Sean
Kate Messerly celebrates the purchase of her first home.
Kate Messerly
Fifth grade teacher Hasty Elementary School Since this past year was my first year of teaching, I decided to take the summer to get some things done that I wasn’t able to during the school year, and relax a little bit! I originally had planned to spend a couple of weeks in Nicaragua, like I have done for the past few summers, putting on workshops for teachers through a missions organization called Vision Nicaragua. Due to political unrest in the country, unfortunately, we were unable to go, but we are hopeful we will be able to go again next year. I ended up spending time with friends and family, bought my first home, and began my master’s in education degree. I closed on my house right as school got out, so the first few weeks of my summer consisted of painting the house, moving in, and decorating to make it my home. It was a fun project to start the summer off with. After I got my house settled, I was able to spend time relaxing at the lake and the beach with friends and family. This was a great time to get rejuvenated and prepare for my second year of teaching. I am excited to learn more through my master's classes so that I can begin to implement these new ideas in my classroom. As summer is coming to a close, I feel rested and am excited to begin my second year of teaching with my wonderful fifth-graders.
AROUND CANTON |
August 2018
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Hospital Expansions Meet Growing Demands BY CANDI HANNIGAN
A little more than a year after opening the new Northside Hospital Cherokee, hospital officials are preparing to celebrate the completion of two additional floors, an expansion needed to meet the growing needs of the community. The eighth floor will open first, and should be complete by the first of December. The seventh floor will follow, two to three months later. The expansion will include eight inpatient beds, 13 relocated medical-surgical inpatient beds and 19 23-hour observation beds. The hospital currently is operating with 118 inpatient beds, after opening with 105. The former facility on Hospital Road had 84 inpatient beds. Northside Hospital Cherokee CEO Billy Hayes said a decision on what to do with the old facility will be made this summer. The demand on the hospital has come as a pleasant surprise, Hayes said, with patients coming from as far as Murphy, N.C. “We built what we thought was the right size at the time. We added a good bit of capacity to the new facility versus the old. What we’re seeing, is more and more patients who didn’t come here before, for whatever reason. It’s been a pretty significant increase.” Other building plans include a two-story addition to the women’s center, with construction starting early 2019, and an upgrade to a Level 3 NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) by late 2019 or early 2020. Residents in Cherokee County and points north won’t have to worry about driving to Northside Atlanta for care in high-risk pregnancy cases, a bonus that Hayes calls “a game changer.” Construction will begin in late summer on a 125,000-square-foot 20
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
medical office building, with a projected opening date of July 2019. Tenants haven’t been determined, but the space will be designed for physician practices. The new hospital is making a difference in Cherokee County; Northside Hospital Cherokee generated more than $397 million in economic impact, according to the Georgia Hospital Association. “The first year, we hired over 500 people, from May 6, 2017, to May 7, 2018, with some moving here from out of the area. Currently, about 400 workers are here due to the construction, and these people eat, stay in hotels. The impact is tremendous,” Hayes said. While the physical structures are built and improved, Hayes also is paying attention to the quality of the work environment and culture inside the hospital. “I’m 100 percent convinced a happy staff will do a better job. We will have better outcomes if we have a happy staff. The staff is very prideful of what we have, very caring and compassionate,” he said. “We have arguably one of the most beautiful facilities, but that’s just bricks and mortar. What makes the difference is the staff, how kind, caring and thoughtful we are. It’s not just about giving the right pill. It’s about creating a healing environment. I often use the term family. We want to treat you like family. For most of us, if our family could take care of us, we’d want them to do it. That’s how we want to treat everyone.” Northside Hospital Cherokee is poised to continue to grow as the needs arise. The hospital sits on a 50-acre pad, surrounded by 300 contiguous acres. Hayes said, “We have more land than we will ever need to grow and expand. We are prepared for the future and ready to anticipate and meet future growth.”
Girl Scouts Earn High Honor Twelve Brownie Girl Scouts from Troop 14662 earned the highest recognition available to scouts in second and third grades: the Brownie Journey Summit Award. This honor came after they completed all three National Leadership Journeys at their grade level. The Brownies were mentored by Cadette Scouts in Troop 11410 and Troop 11428. All participating scouts live in Cherokee County. The Brownies, who just completed third grade, are Sophie Abbott, MaryJo Brown, Catherine Hof, Joan Hof, Amilia Huggins, Cheyanne Landers, Lucy Paire, Livi Rogers, Sophie Sabaj-Griffeth, Carah Samples, Celia Williams and Emily Worosz. The Cadettes, who completed seventh grade and provided invaluable leadership to the younger girls, are Evie Clark, Bela Hernandez, Grace Kicak, Lydia Klements, Julia Sick and Allie Zimmerman. “For this award, the girls focused on the environment, and how to be better people through friendships,” Brownie
Co-Leader Maria Huggins said. “They also learned qualities of leadership from working with their older Cadette sisters. The Cadettes played a huge role in helping the girls to grow.” While planning and leading journey events for the Brownies, the Cadettes earned hours required for the Leader in Action and Program Aide Awards.
“I think the biggest change I saw in the Cadettes was an increase in confidence — they were so pumped after working with the younger girls,” Cadette Leader Connie Klements said. “They’re going from being the little girl in Girl Scouts to being the leader, and their confidence really soared.”
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Around & About AUGUST Everclear performs at the 11 Woodstock summer concert
series at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. No charge. For more details, visit www.woodstockconcertseries.com.
Parent’s Night Out, 17, 31 5:30-10 p.m. Cherokee
County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. Drop-off starts at 5:30 p.m. and pickup ends at 10 p.m. Kids will play in the pool, enjoy a pizza dinner and crafts, play games and end the night with a movie. 10-1 ratio of kids to counselors. Please send the kids with pajamas to change into after the pool. Call 678-880-4760 for more details.
Movies in the Park, in 18 downtown Woodstock, are
free and begin around 8:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Children’s activities before the movie are provided by BridgePointe Church. Snacks will be available for purchase. Aug. 18: “Sherlock Gnomes” (starts around 8:30 p.m.). Sept. 15: To be determined (starts around 7:50 p.m.)
Your Mutt, 8:30-11:30 a.m. 25 Strut Patriots Park, 1485 Kellogg Creek
The Chick-fil-A Cherokee County Moo’ve it 5K includes activities for kids, entertainment, goodie bags with Chick-fil-A treats at Etowah River Park in Canton. The Cherokee County school zone with the highest participation will divide $2,500. The most spirited “cow” runner will win Chick-fil-A for one year. Contest will be judged prior to the race start. Registration 5-7 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Woodstock Dwarf House Chick-fil-A. $30. Packet pickup begins at 6:30 a.m. race day. Money raised supports Cherokee County Special Olympics and Education Foundation. www.cfamooveit.com.
12 noon-5 p.m. Cherokee County Red Cross Babysitting,
Aquatic Center Wet Room Class No. 2. This training helps youth ages 11-15 develop leadership skills, learn how to develop a babysitting business, keep themselves and others safe and help children behave; and learn about basic child care and basic first aid. Cost $55. To register, visit www.crpa.net. 22
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Road, Acworth. Celebrate National Dog Day with food vendors, representatives from the Cherokee County Animal Shelter, K-9 Unit, Marshal’s Office, dog boutiques and more. Contest for best dressed, best trick, and dog and owner look-alikes. Dogs must be up to date on shots; no female dogs in heat. Half the proceeds will go to the animal shelter. Cost is $10 per dog. Pre-registration is required. Register at www.crpa.net. Toonigh Church of God invites children ages 3-12 to participate in a weekend adventure with SonSpark Labs, beginning 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday (including lunch) and continuing 11 a.m.-noon Sunday. The church is at 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, across from the Holly Spring Home Depot. For more information, contact Kim Chatham at pastorkim@toonighcog.org. UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County will present a seminar “Saving Herbs and Seeds” 10 a.m. at the Hickory Flat Library, 2740 East Cherokee Drive. Learn to preserve garden herbs for future use. To register, call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu
SEPTEMBER
6, 13, 20, 27 Brown Bag Lunch
Concerts, noon-1 p.m. each Thursday in September at The Park at City Center in Woodstock. Bring a chair, lunch and enjoy.
Park in the Dark Night Hike, 7 8Lewis p.m. check in. $10 per person, preregistration required. All ages welcome. Bring your own flashlight or headlamp. Lewis Park, 200 E. Bells Ferry, Woodstock. www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768.
Special performs at the 8 38Woodstock summer concert
series at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. No charge. For more details, visit www.woodstockconcertseries.com.
Day of Remembrance, 11 9/11 6 p.m. at The Park at City Center
in Woodstock. Honoring service men and women we’ve lost and those who continue to fight for our freedom. Visit the 9/11 memorial that features two subway tracks recovered from beneath the ruins of the World Trade Center.
Couture, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy 12 Chalk a night of crafting, mocktails
and snacks with your friends. $40 per person, includes all supplies. A selection of transfers and chalk colors will be provided. For ages 18 and older. Recreation Center Community Room, 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock. www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768.
Kayak, 6:30 a.m. Kayak 15 Sunrise from Knox Bridge to Fields
Landing. $35 per person, $15 if you bring your own equipment. Price includes paddle, followed by light refreshments. Pre-registration required. www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768. Contact Jen Fischer, jlfischer@cherokeega.com.
OCTOBER
. Cherokee Recreation 6 Touch-a-Truck & Parks Agency hosts an annual
Touch a Truck event, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Cherokee County Fire and Training Facility in Holly Springs, 3985 Holly Springs Parkway. The FREE event gives kids a chance to climb aboard and get behind the wheel of their favorite vehicles, learn from their operators, and meet some of their hometown heroes. For information, contact Lindsey Collett, lcollett@ cherokeega.com.
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cantonga.gov AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.
August always arrives too soon. As the new school year begins, we welcome back structure and routine, but not the slower morning and afternoon commutes. Everyday Angels will wait patiently for the dust to settle before reconnecting with local school counselors and administrators, who identify and qualify student and family needs within our community. Meanwhile, we continue to work behind the scenes, assisting with many small local needs as they are presented to us. Throughout the summer months, Everyday Angels has been busy. We have paid utility bills hours before disconnection, distributed grocery and gas cards, and kept several families off the streets and in their extended-stay hotels, where they reside. Everyday Angels also provided clothing and school supplies to students, who would not be prepared for school otherwise. We could not make a difference without the support of our readers, and we are grateful for your continued support.
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please 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. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.
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Dear Everyday Angels: I am a single parent of twins who will enter high school in August. Several years ago, one of my daughters befriended a precious girl that she had met while in middle school. She lived with one parent and many small siblings in a small home. My daughter noticed that she had very little – limited school supplies and clothing for school and would always have to go home to care for her younger siblings after school, while her mother worked several jobs. She had no cellphone or computer like many kids in school are required to use or have access for projects and school work. Often, I would pick her up and bring her over to our house, after her mom returned from work, so that the girls could study and have access to a computer. We all have grown to love this strong young lady. It warmed my heart to see my girls embrace her as they did, sharing their clothes and styling her hair and makeup. We recently learned that her family was evicted from their rental home and is living in an extended stay hotel within the school district, as they explore other permanent living arrangements. I understand the struggles of single parenting, and have limited resources to assist them personally. I am reaching out to your organization in hopes that you may be able to assist them financially through this difficult time. Any help you can provide them would be greatly appreciated and very much needed. A concerned friend
Everyday Angels was able to assist with weekly rental costs and groceries as this tired mom tries to secure permanent housing in the area. She also will be required to pay security deposits and utilities once permanent housing is secured. With limited “as needed” funding, we are asking you to help this family.
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Rob’s Rescues This dog is Diamond. She is a boxer, American pitbull mix and is 9 years old. I really like her. She is a sweet dog. A big dog with a big heart that will care for you and be a good protector. She is gentle but strong. There are 48 cats at the shelter right now. So many. Please adopt them, they’re super cute, like this one.
Follow Rob on Facebook! @robsrescues I interviewed Grace Hamlin who started the organization W-Underdogs in Atlanta. www.w-underdogs.org.
What do you do?
Gangs and stray animals are two of the biggest problems in our area of Atlanta. The kids that live on the streets here grow up with gangs and guns, and believe that is normal. The stray dog population is extremely high in Fulton County. The county shelter was designed to hold 80 dogs and it is regularly overcrowded to the point of 400 dogs. The W-Underdogs tries to incorporate kids, animals, community and the world. I am a veteran focused on helping kids to stay out of gangs, and instead focus their energy on helping the many stray animals roaming around our communities. A lot of the children I work with don’t have parents and are vulnerable. I teach them accountability and show them how they can be heroes in their own story. They rescue and take care of animals and build dog houses. I teach them how to become advocates for animal welfare and do work to change the community they live in for the better.
How many kids are involved and what do they do? I have five teenagers who are the leaders (W-Underdogs) and seven to 10 younger kids (Underdogs) involved. You become a W-Underdog when you start saving dogs and learn discipline, responsibility and own your mistakes. During the summer I have up to 14 kids. They do a lot of caring for, bathing and walking dogs and cats.
How do you find the kids to help you?
My teenage group were 6 to 8 years old when I found them being harassed by gang members. I started working with them then. They bring others in to help now.
What do you do on a normal day?
We start early and let the dogs we are currently caring for out on 15-minute rotations. Days have many interesting challenges. We recently managed to rescue a senior dog that took us on a 3-mile chase around the neighborhood. We also build and deliver dog houses where needed. We work with the Fulton County Animal Cruelty Liaison who puts us in touch with people in the neighborhood who need dog housing and fencing to keep their animals in. We help with putting up fencing and building dog houses.
Why did you start this project?
In 2013, I was injured on the job. I couldn’t care for my animals. I found some kids in the neighborhood that were being harassed by gang members and got them to help me.
How many dogs and cats have you rescued?
About 300 dogs and over 60 cats. That’s not bad for 10 kids! You don’t have to be a “rescue” to rescue dogs. It is a mindset. This program teaches kids to do the right thing.
What is a story that you like to tell?
These kids are amazing. They teach us that anything is possible. Why are we waiting for tomorrow when these kids are showing us what we can do today. You’ve got to engage kids in the solutions. Especially in this area where the social problems caused by drugs, gangs and guns are just so great.
How can I help you?
We need dog houses and materials to build them. Fencing over 5 feet, toys, food, leashes and supplies. Please visit our site www.wunderdogs.org for more information.
I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.
Rob and Grace Hamlin. 26
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Artistic Im p act Artists make their mark across all media. BY ANN LITREL
It’s Tuesday, past noon, and I’m 5 minutes late for my weekly meeting with Christopher Brazelton, executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. I trot from the parking lot to the Elm Street offices, where the double doors glow with painted, larger-than-life drama masks. The faces of comedy and tragedy are a nod not only to Elm Street’s yearround theater productions, but also the painting prowess of the visual artists who call Elm Street home.
Kristina Havens with her Woodstock vignettes. 28
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Just inside, the buzz of voices and laughter emanates from artist Debbie Tidwell’s bustling studio, filled with students three mornings a week. They come to learn to paint, and they stay, as far as I can tell, for years. I first met Debbie when our two studios were outposts in the virtual ghost town of Woodstock, late 2006. The old depot had just opened as (the now defunct) Right Wing Tavern. There were no high-rise condos, no row of shops on Main Street’s east side. Debbie and I wondered, how
can we create a “gallery walk” to get folks here? We recruited three other business owners, Cheryl of Seven Arrows, Al with Interior Illusions and Ellen of Foxtale Bookshop. We waffled a bit between Saturday Night Live and Friday Night Live, finally deciding which night on a coin-flip. And that was the birth of Woodstock’s Friday Night Live. Now, the community of Debbie’s painters have become loyal theater advocates, some serving as Elm Street volunteers (called visionaries) for activities ranging from painting sets to serving Reformation beer in the theater lounge. Seeing Debbie, I make a mental checkmark. I’ve just received an article request from Candi Hannigan, senior editor of this magazine. Candi’s email notes that August is American Artist Appreciation Month and asks whether I would be willing to write about other artists? Yes, I say, with the caveat that the theme is “how artists impact community.” Debbie, I think, is a prime example. I refocus on the meeting with Christopher. He’s busy. We leapfrog through a laundry list of Elm Street topics – board recruitment, budget items, plan approvals for the reconstructed Reeves House, the visual arts center of Elm Street. Leaving, my thoughts light on another artist — Kristina Havens. A few years after opening my Woodstock studio, I invited Kristina to join me there, where she became a vital force in growing the downtown arts scene. A tour de force in figure painting and portraiture, Kristina led classes and open studio sessions
Kim Bates, far left, with photography club members on an outing.
with models every Wednesday night. Recruiting national name artists to teach weeklong workshops, Kristina brought art enthusiasts from around the Southeast to Woodstock, introducing them to the surprisingly urban vibe of this Atlanta suburb. Kristina’s generous gift to the community was a collection of paintings, The Woodstock Vignettes, which she auctioned off one beautiful September night in a benefit for Elm Street Arts Center. Kristina is her usual articulate self when I call: “Main Street Woodstock provided me with endless – spontaneous – inspiration, and that was the real beauty that I was privileged to capture.” Kristina recently has explored other artistic avenues, from haunting nature scenes to stunning custom embellished clothing. As I drive away from Elm Street, I call Mary Akers, executive director of the Cherokee Arts Center in Canton. Among her suggestions for
artists with “community impact” is photographer Kim Bates. Kim and I served together on the Cherokee Arts Center board in Canton, where Kim has been a lynchpin in the photography community — the founder and president of the Cherokee Photography Club. Kim is characteristically modest: “In 2004, digital photography was just becoming popular. The club just sorta happened — I was friends with the president of the Cobb Photography Club, and I decided to start one for Cherokee County.” Since then, Kim has been president, organizing speakers for the group meetings, monthly exhibits in the Arts Center, and club field trips to places such as Boston and Cape Romaine — all the while amassing a remarkable photography portfolio. “What drives you?” I ask. Kim’s quiet voice rises. “I believe the arts are just as important to a city as retail stores – when you visit places like
Annalysa Kimball is the Woodstock mural artist.
Asheville, Greenville, Sedona, you can see that the arts are the reason these places are so vital.” Next, is clay artist Fred Ellis. Fred also serves on the CAC board, but his connection with many Cherokee artists is that he and his wife Laura Ellis organized a regional holiday studio tour, the North Georgia Arts Ramble. The two artists were a whirlwind, securing sponsors and creating an exciting studio circuit with a colorful map
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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and website. For several years, their Ramble connected artists and patrons all over the county, for a glorious weekend of holiday shopping and art. Fred relates that he and Laura both retired from the Georgia State Patrol, after which Laura promptly signed him up for a clay class, “to get me out of the house.” He laughs. After that, their involvement in the community mushroomed. Fred now holds the office of president of the Georgia Clay Council, with Laura as secretary. They travel and show their work, but Fred says he loves best the school tours: “To see their little faces when you take the wheel and throw a pot! One little girl got REALLY excited and said, ‘Will you come home and be MY grampa?!’ It’s exposing them to the arts. Showing the kids they can create work in clay and sell it – that is a great experience for them.”
Debbie Tidwell’s classes are popular.
The next morning, I wake early to paint, and then text Annalysa Kimball, the artist who won the mural commission for the city of Woodstock. For months, she has perched on scaffolding along Mill Street, painting in the cold and heat. I’m eager to hear about her experience. Her project research was impressive: She interviewed dozens of business people, community leaders, fellow artists (her insightful questions were probing). Today, she reflects back: “I think I got this job because, when they asked me what ideas I had for the project, I said, ‘NONE!’ I’m a blank slate, just like the wall, for the community to share with me what should be their story.’” Last month, Annalysa circled back to me. She said she had painted scenes of Woodstock’s past and
present, but, in wrapping up, she wanted to include Woodstock’s future. She thought of the Reeves House – could she show a few of us in front of it, looking at plans? I reached out to Founding Artistic Director Gay Grooms. Gay moved to Florida to care for her father, now in his 90s. She couldn’t come, but she could stage a photo and send it! Gay’s beautiful silver hair falls in waves as she looks over Reeves House plans, her figure magically inserted in paint among Shawn, me and Christopher. I was happy to know Annalysa will be painting our community’s future, with a picture of the old Reeves House, reborn as an arts center. The arts bring vibrancy and beauty to a community. I believe that, as long as there are artists, these things live on.
Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.
Fred Ellis fires his pottery. 30
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY
Crossfire Volleyball Club M Venture with Tennessee club expected to bring new elite option to local athletes. Crossfire Volleyball has a long and successful history in Cherokee County under the leadership of founder and Director Joe Auriemma and Assistant Director Robin Emery. Auriemma and Emery are excited to announce changes for the club that will build on past accomplishments while vaulting the club in the future. Crossfire Volleyball is merging with Phoenix Rising Volleyball Club based in Knoxville, Tenn. The merge comes with aspirations for growth and enhancements in the indoor and beach programs.
HISTORY
Crossfire was founded in 2010 and brought Cherokee County a competitive volleyball club to train players for middle and high school teams. For eight seasons, Crossfire delivered a unique experience to players looking to begin and play volleyball. More than 1,250 youth have participated in programs and earned many championship finishes over the years, with some moving on to play at the next level.
JOINING FORCES
#beapartoftherising
PHOTO BY REBEKAH GREGG
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Crossfire joins forces with Phoenix Rising Executive Director Kynette Williams. She is a former NCAA Division I player and coach who has successfully assisted more than 200 athletes earn positions to play volleyball at colleges and universities. In addition to directing Phoenix Rising, Williams continues to coach in the largest high school division in Tennessee, where her teams have excellent success and have competed in two state tournaments. Because of Crossfire’s consistent success, coupled with the growth of the sport, Williams believes the merger will benefit the
Open House Celebration 3-6 p.m. Aug. 26
Hopewell Baptist Church 78 Ridge Road, Canton 30114
phoenixrisingvb.com crossfirevolleyballclub.com AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Merges with Phoenix Rising area with an elite level volleyball club. It will be more than just a name change and new uniforms. This merger will propel the club to become one of the premier clubs in the Southeast. There will be greater emphasis placed on high level skill coaching and training, along with more opportunities for players who want to play at the collegiate level. Auriemma and Emery will continue to manage the day-to-day operations in Georgia and the merger will not change the warm family atmosphere and supportive environment. Phoenix Rising hosts a successful tournament series, The Great Smoky Volleyball Series, which covers East Tennessee through North Georgia. Included is the much loved Battleground Explosion in Chattanooga, Tenn. and Jewel of the Mountain AAU Grand Prix in Kingsport, Tenn., an AAU Qualifier where teams can earn bids to nationals and are sanctioned by USA Junior Volleyball, AAU and JVA, the top three volleyball organizations in the country. To learn more about these tournaments, visit www. greatsmokyvolleyballseries.com Brian Goodhind, head volleyball coach at Reinhardt University and TSC and ACVA Southeast Coach of the Year, will lead the coaching staff during the upcoming season. Coach Brian comes with a wealth of experience from playing and coaching
From Left, Robin Emery, Brian Goodhind, Kynette Williams and Joe Auriemma. Photo by Rebekah Gregg.
championship teams at the junior and collegiate levels. Additionally, Steve French will continue to lead the expanding beach program, which has just finished a successful year. Coach Steve has more than 29 years of experience playing and coaching and has competed in tournaments from coast to coast. Coach “Buzz” Busby will continue to lead the Ignite developmental program with players who are just beginning in the sport. Coach Buzz has been training and conditioning young athletes in Cherokee County for several years. Under the leadership of Coach Williams, Auriemma, Emery, Coach Brian, Coach Steve and Coach Buzz, Phoenix Rising Volleyball Club will bring Cherokee and the surrounding area a volleyball club that will deliver a higher standard of excellence.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Phoenix Rising Volleyball Club, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 2007 and has been built on the mission of developing players on and off the court, which complements Crossfire Volleyball’s history of community service and working as a team to help others. Crossfire teams have helped in the local animal shelter, sent packages to soldiers, created gift bags for women’s shelter, provided volunteers and collected goods for MUST Ministries. That tradition will continue.
THE FUTURE
Phoenix Rising Volleyball will continue to offer the programs that have made the club successful and will focus on becoming a premier volleyball club in the Southeast. This will include the Ignite Developmental Program, Spark VBT clinics, Beach Volleyball and Indoor Club Volleyball. For more information, visit www.phoenixrisingVB.com. The advanced training, private lessons, a more rigorous tournament schedule, along with an active recruiting program, will provide players many opportunities for growth in the sport. The director, managers and coaches are excited for the upcoming season and all the changes and opportunities on the horizon. If you or someone you know wants to rise to the next level, please join the Phoenix Rising Volleyball Club and staff for an open house celebration 3-6 p.m. Aug. 26 at Hopewell Baptist Church. There will be food, fun and information available. Sponsored Content
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Why Do People Put Off Saving for Retirement? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
Common wisdom says that you should start saving for retirement as soon as you can. Why do some people wait
decades to begin?
Nearly everyone can save something. Even small cash savings may be the start of something big, if they are invested wisely. Sometimes, the immediate wins out over the distant. To young adults, retirement can seem so far away. Instead of directing X dollars a month toward some far-off financial objective, why not use it for something here and now, like a payment on a student loan, or a car? This is indeed practical, and it may be necessary. Even so, paying yourself first should be as much a priority as paying today’s bills or paying your creditors.
Some workers fail to enroll in retirement plans because they anticipate leaving. They start a job with an assumption that
it may only be short-term, so they avoid signing up, even though human resources encourages them. Time passes. Six months turn into six years. Still, they are unenrolled. (Speaking of short-term or transitory work, many people in the gig economy never get such encouragement; they have no access to a workplace retirement plan at all.)
Other young adults feel they have too little to start saving or investing. Maybe when they are further along in
their careers, the time will be right – but not now. Currently, they cannot contribute big monthly or quarterly amounts to retirement accounts, so what is the point of starting today? The point can be expressed in two words: compound interest. Even small retirement account contributions have potential to snowball into much larger sums with time. Suppose a 25-year-old puts just $100 in a retirement plan earning 8 percent a year. Suppose they keep doing that every month for 35 years. How much money is in the account at age 60? $100 x 12 x 35, or $42,000? No, $217,114, thanks to annual compounded growth. As their salary grows, the monthly contributions can increase, thereby positioning the account
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to grow even larger. Another important thing to remember is that the longer a sum has been left to compound, the greater the annual compounding becomes. The takeaway here: Get an early start.1
Any retirement saver should strive to get an employer match. Some companies will match a percentage of a worker’s
retirement plan contribution once it exceeds a certain level. This is literally free money. Who would turn down free money?
Just how many Americans are not yet saving for retirement? Earlier this year, an Edward Jones survey put the figure
at 51 percent. If you are reading this, you are likely in the other 49 percent, and have been for some time. Keep up the good work.2
Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please note: Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - bankrate.com/calculators/savings/compound-savings-calculator-tool. aspx [6/21/18] 2 - forbes.com/sites/kateashford/2018/02/28/retirement-3/ [2/28/18]
Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.
WELLSTAR & MAYO CLINIC
WORKING TOGETHER. WORKING FOR YOU. At WellStar Health System, we want every patient to receive the care they need right here in Georgia. As a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, our doctors have special access to Mayo Clinic knowledge, expertise and resources. And you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing we’re here for you.
ASK YOUR WELLSTAR PHYSICIAN ABOUT THE MAYO CLINIC CARE NETWORK. WellStar is the first health system in Georgia to become a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.
wellstar.org/mayo 770-956-STAR (7827) AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Simplifying Georgia’s Adoption Laws Additionally, Georgia law will provide a shorter revocation period of four days. Georgia’s current 10-day revocation period is one of most rigorous revocation policies in the nation, and From time to time, it is good to bring up the basics so we HB 159 seeks to strike the right balance between the rights of can have a greater conversation about the more complex the birth mother and the adoptive parents by shortening this aspects of the law. revocation period. One such basic principle is that the laws we live under in Furthermore, HB 159 will allow birth mothers to receive Georgia are collected in 53 separate volumes, called titles, reasonable living expenses in both private and with each title dedicated to a unique aspect Georgia law agency adoptions. Under current law, only of the law. For example, Title 2 has all laws birth mothers in agency adoptions are allowed pertaining to agriculture, while Title 16 addresses will provide reasonable living expenses. crimes and offenses. a shorter This change seeks to create a level playing Occasionally, a single subject becomes field, and to give all birth mothers equal access to convoluted because it gets spread out across revocation reasonable living expenses, regardless of which multiple titles and code sections. This makes it period of type of adoption they go through. This is the law in cumbersome for the average person to read and most states in the country. understand the law. four days. Lastly, the bill includes several safeguards That is exactly what had happened to Georgia’s on temporary powers of attorney, provides for adoption laws (which are located in Title 19). nonresidents to adopt a child, updates maternity and paternity After nearly 30 years of minor adjustments and changes, the leave time for new adoptive parents, and changes the age at law had become terribly confusing, and also had failed to which an individual may access the Adoption Reunion Registry. keep up with modern issues and concerns. It took a huge effort by Rep. Reeves to get this necessary and That is why state Rep. Bert Reeves, from Kennesaw, comprehensive reform to the governor’s desk for a signature. undertook a two and a half year process to completely But, the results of having a more affordable, streamlined rewrite the code section in Title 19 regarding adoption in and simpler adoption process will make all the difference to Georgia. children and families who engage in the adoption process. The result was HB 159, which will go into effect on Sept. 1 of this year. House Bill 159 will allow increased efficiencies in all aspects of Georgia adoption, including the first ever incorporation of a process to domesticate international adoption decrees. The bill expands jurisdictional options for Scot Turner is a small business owner and the State House Representative for District 21. He can be reached at both in-state and out-of-state adoptions, and also eliminates 678-576-2644 or www.facebook.com/turnerforhouse. the six-month residency requirement in Georgia. BY SCOT TURNER
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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FAITH
Moving In God’s Direction BY REV. DR. JOSEPH N. COUSIN, SR.
The most anxious times in our lives seem to occur when we are in the midst of moving. Last year, my family and I moved from Michigan to Georgia, and it proved to be a hectic time. When we arrived in Georgia, we decided to rent for one year while we prayed, scouted the area, and asked God for direction as to where we should make our permanent residence. Our year is completed. God blessed us with the perfect house, and now it is time to move again. Everything we endured last year, we must endure again, and during this past year it seems as if we never stopped moving. As I pondered my current state, it occurred to me that life is about constant movement. Think about it, we rarely are in a state where we are not in some kind of flux, because movement is a necessity in our lives. However, our movement in life takes on a greater significance because we are not just moving physically from place to place— our movement becomes more spiritual in nature as we are working toward moving in God’s direction. With this in mind, let’s take a look at the book of Exodus and the children of Israel as they crossed the Red Sea, moving in the direction that God had set for them. In the 14th Chapter of the Book of Exodus, we find God
directing Moses and the children of Israel as they are being pursued by Pharaoh. God tells them to move in the right direction—and this included crossing the Red Sea. As the people moved in God’s direction, they had to move with faith, trusting that God would provide for their needs. The people listened to God and moved in spite of their fear, trusting God to be stronger than their fear. And, as they moved in God’s direction, they did so expecting God’s favor to be upon them. The story concludes with their success—and God’s favor continually bestowed upon them. The favor of God is always evident when we move in God’s direction. Do not be afraid when it’s time to move, just listen to God and move in God’s direction. Never forget this story of Moses and the children of Israel as you move in faith, overcome fear, and receive God’s favor upon your life. Be blessed and keep on moving in God’s direction.
The Rev. Dr. Joseph N. Cousin, Sr. is pastor of Allen Temple AME church in Woodstock. www.allentempleame.org.
Celebrating Papa’s Pantry’s 20th Anniversary BY LYNNE SAUNDERS
It’s hard to believe that Papa’s Pantry’s 20th anniversary is here. It began after a mission trip to India. The people were humble, hard-working, yet very poor. There was no government aide. Christianity was against the law, so there was no help available to fill in the gaps. Swarms of children begged in the street. It was clear, people struggled. Coming back to the United States, I realized that people struggle here, too, even with all the resources available. I felt God’s nudge and “cupboard thing” began to resound in my spirit. Papa’s Pantry started in my Eagle Watch home in August 1998. I took groceries to people’s homes evenings and weekends, around my work schedule. Having never worked in social services, I felt as if I was “winging it.” When I arrived with non-perishables, meat, milk and produce, I was able to open, unfortunately, many empty refrigerators and freezers. Giving free food was easy, but it didn’t provide any real solutions. As I got to know each family, I found other ways to help, mostly by coaching job searches and helping with resumes. Household budgeting was the logical next step. Men and women got jobs and understood how to manage their finances. The cycle of instability was breaking! This is how the mission of Papa’s Pantry started: The heart and soul of Papa’s Pantry is to help people gain/ 38
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
regain stability. Although food is important when there’s not enough, it is the stability training classes and ongoing coaching and mentoring that really makes a lasting impact. Our training division is The Master’s Training Center; classes are available to everyone in the community. Food is given as needed, until each family is on their feet. This is still what makes Papa’s unique. After 5 ½ years, it was time to go full time. I quit my job and leaned on God for the next steps. Our first public pantry was in Canton, in an old home converted to business space. Within 10 months, we outgrew it and relocated to our current location, 6551 Commerce Parkway (just off Bells Ferry near Kellogg Creek). Papa’s Pantry is a place that changes lives. There have been thousands of families we have had the privilege to serve during the past 20 years. Feel free to call us if you’d like to schedule a tour and learn more about our programs that work, 770-591-4730. papaspantry.org. We keep making progress!
Lynne Saunders is director of Papa’s Pantry (www.papaspantry.org) and the Master’s Training Center. She can be reached at 770-591-4730.
Above, First Priority meets at Woodstock Middle. Right, Susan speaks to the Fish Club at Oak Grove.
First Priority Club
Where all are welcomed, loved and safe BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
When school starts this month, First Priority clubs will begin regular meetings in 12 of the 13 middle and high schools in Cherokee County. Everyone is welcome, whether or not you are a Christian, all are loved, and all find a safe place to learn about life, leadership and Jesus. At First Priority, clubs are student led and initiated. The members focus on inspiring students to reach out to their teammates and classmates with a clear gospel message. Leadership believes that more lives will be transformed through relational evangelism, and that students are the best source of the good news for their friends. “First Priority has been completely lifechanging for me,” Kaitlyn Morris said. “It has taught me so much about leadership, and led me to grow in my faith as I never could have imagined! I have learned to be bold in
my faith and to recognize the importance of reaching out to my fellow students. I am so thankful for Darin Peppers and the opportunity he has given me to lead at Cherokee High School and be involved in this amazing organization.” As a juvenile probation officer, Peppers heard a still small voice whispering to his heart back in 1997: You are changing lives from the outside in, but I want you to start changing lives from the inside out. Soon after that, his mother and fatherin-law introduced him to the national organization First Priority, in Birmingham. By 1998, he had become a full-time missionary for the organization. Currently, he is the executive director of First Priority of Metro Atlanta, which gained its nonprofit status in February 2012. To date, more than 1,700 students have accepted Christ, with the majority of these students in Cherokee County.
First Priority also has a Fish Club for elementary students. This fall, six Cherokee elementary schools will have clubs available for students. Recently, I had the privilege of being a guest speaker at my grand niece’s Fish Club at Oak Grove Elementary. It was a blast! I got to talk with them about how God is the potter and we are the clay. I brought some of my husband’s pottery and reminded them of five important truths we all need to hear: You are beautiful. You are wonderfully molded by God. You are created by God. You are known by God. You were created to be YOU! We played with clay and ate pizza, too. So fun! Clubs meet before and after school. Darin said the biggest needs for First Priority are volunteers and business sponsors to provide students with breakfast, lunch and snacks. We consumed six boxes of pizza when I spoke at Oak Grove Elementary. He also said they would love to have club T-shirts. If you would like to get involved, visit www.fpmetroatlanta.org or contact Darin at 770-289-2491 or darin@fpmetroatlanta.org. Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.
First Priority gathering at E.T. Booth. AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
HICKORY FLAT
R.T. JONES
2740 East Cherokee Drive • 770-345-7565
116 Brown Industrial Parkway • 770-479-3090
Aug. 17, 18
Tuesdays
Book Sale 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug. 17, and 10
a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 18. A preview sale 3 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16, will be open to members of the Friends of Cherokee County Libraries. You can become a member at the door.
Tech Tuesday. Have a question about how to use something technical, like checking your email from your phone? Sign up for a help session to get answers. If you have a question about your device, please bring it with you. Please know your password before attending. Registration is required; call 770479-3090 (Ext. 228) to sign up.
Aug. 21
Aug. 10
can read to a non-judgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session by calling 770-345-7565.
basics of free-hand embroidery. Topics covered include how to draw your own sewing pattern and basic stitches. Materials are provided. For ages 13 and older.
Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m. Children 6 and older
Manga Club at 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged
to read and discuss different manga series and related topics. This program will encourage reading and group discussion in a fun and innovative way. Refreshments provided.
Free-Hand Embroidery at 4 p.m. Skip the expensive patterns and learn the
Aug. 18
Adventure Awaits! Dungeons and Dragons at noon. Take a seat at the table, grab some dice, and step into the boots of a hero during this monthly Dungeons and Dragons game. Beginners are welcome. All materials are provided, or you may bring your own. For ages 12 and older.
Aug. 19
D.I.G. (Drop-In Genealogy) at 2 p.m. Join the Drop-In Genealogy group for
an afternoon of researching and learning about various topics. Ancestry.com is available for use within the library, as well as other research tools. Call 770-4793090 (Ext. 232) to add your name to the mailing list.
Aug. 22
Aug. 20
and grooving with friends from Go Noodle! It’ll be a dance party to remember. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
noon. Josh Fuder from the UGA Cherokee County Extension Office will teach about best horticultural practices and site assessment. Perfect for gardeners/ farmers of all skill levels. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get moving
Scam and Identity Theft at 6 p.m. Learn
different ways to protect your personal information from identity thieves and what to do if you are a victim. Presented by Georgia Watch’s Financial Protection Program.
Aug. 24
Homeschool Families Meet and Greet at 10:30 a.m. Homeschool families are welcome to meet with other local homeschool families, enjoy refreshments, and learn about all of the services offered at the library. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
UGA Extension: Best Horticultural Practices and Site Assessment at
The Canton Eclectic Readers meet at 6 p.m. This month, the book club for unconventional readers will be reading “Still Life” by Louise Penny. One reviewer praised, “cerebral, wise and compassionate, Gamache is destined for stardom.” Don’t miss this stellar debut. Meet in the R.T. Jones Memorial Library Georgia Room for a lively discussion. Call 770-479-3090 (Ext. 228) to add your name to the mailing list. Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m. Children 6 and older can read to a non-judgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session by calling 770-479-3090.
Aug. 27
Aug. 23
out from the back-to-school rush and enjoy an evening as a family. Compete as a team in popular “Hollywood Game Night” games, enjoy free refreshments and win prizes. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
about your favorite “Dork Diaries” books. Enjoy fun activities associated with the book series and make your own journal to take home.
Family Game Night at 6 p.m. Take a time-
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Dork Diaries Book Party at 4:30 p.m. Tweens ages 9-12 are invited to talk
Aug. 29
Coding Club at 5 p.m. Aspiring and experienced coders are welcome. Share
your skills and ideas, or learn the basics. Bring your own gear or use one of our Raspberry Pi computers. For ages 12 and older.
25% Off ALL Outdoor Furniture
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Making a Mark on History and the Community BY MICHAEL LITREL, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
“These women and their babies need me, and they will get the care they deserve.” These are the words of James Cross, MD, the founder of Cherokee Women’s Health in response to why, in 1993, he came out of retirement. After years of being a highly reputed clinical professor at Georgia Baptist/ Atlanta Medical Center, he arrived to single-handedly provide OB services for metro Atlanta’s Cherokee County, delivering babies in the hospital that is now Northside Hospital Cherokee. His presence was credited for cutting the perinatal morbidity and mortality rate for the county’s babies in half, a rate which before his arrival had been among the highest in the state. Cross has made his mark in obstetrics history in metro Atlanta over the past half century. He was the first OB-GYN in Georgia to offer epidurals to women in labor. He was among the original 17 obstetricians who opened Atlanta’s Northside Hospital. Shortly upon his arrival in Cherokee County in 1993, Cross was diagnosed with cancer. Rather than close Cherokee County’s obstetrical services, to address his own health concerns, he remained as the sole obstetrician in Cherokee County, overnighting in the hospital to deliver babies, while he himself received chemotherapy.
Dr. James Cross
In 2006, Cross delivered his last baby. This time, he stayed retired for three years, remarking, “I was never so bored in my entire life.” When an offer came from Northside Hospital Cherokee to join their radiology department in dye studies, he quickly gained his certification, and is still called in on an emergency basis six to seven days a month. In addition to his contributions at Northside Cherokee, he
also has worked in Marietta, specializing in pain management and addiction medicine two days a week for the past nine years. Today, James Cross, MD, is still practicing medicine at 86 years old. As the beautiful new Northside Hospital Cherokee facility was approaching its opening last May, Cross was interviewed to discuss his mark in obstetrics history in metro Atlanta. As he entered the soaring main atrium of the hospital and marveled at the hanging chandelier, he shook his head and laughed, “More like a hotel, don’t you think?” He was cheerful and spry in a white doctor’s coat and remarked that “a hospital makes all the difference in a community,” with the air of someone who has said it hundreds of times. Thanks to Cross’ dedication and vision for physician-led health care, Cherokee County continues to have one of the lowest perinatal mortality rates in Georgia. Cross recently was given an honorary staff membership at Northside Hospital Cherokee, and, when asked if, looking back, he would do anything differently, he smiled and said, “I’ve been so darn busy, I haven’t had time to think about that.”
Dr. Michael Litrel, a board-certified OB-GYN and Urogynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, writes books and essays on faith, family and health. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
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AROUND CANTON | August 2018
Tips For Travelling With the Family Pet BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY
Many of us don’t like to leave to leave our pets at home when we travel. Whether it is going to the nearby dog park, going for a hike in the mountains or a trip to the beach; we often pack up our pets and take them with us. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when traveling with pets. Acclimate your pet to travel. Most pets are not used to traveling in a vehicle. If a long trip is on the horizon, try slowly acclimating your pet to travel. Taking pets for shorter car rides may be as simple as a trip around the block and often can give you insight into how they might do on longer trips. Feed your pet several hours before departure. It is best to feed a lighter meal than normal, three to four hours before leaving, if possible. That way, the meal will be mostly digested and help alleviate car sickness. Water is essential. When traveling, you cannot predict where there might be fresh, clean water, so pack accordingly. Keep pets hydrated, since they may be doing a lot of panting. Small amounts of water frequently is the way to go. Take frequent breaks when traveling long distances. This is probably important for the driver as well as pets. Dogs need to eliminate and stretch their legs. Cats should remain in their carriers. It is important to keep pets on secure collars and leashes at all times. Do not assume that because pets stay close to you at home that they will obey you at rest stops. Secure dog collars and leashes prior to exiting the vehicle and make sure to
exit the vehicle first, not your pets. Never leave a pet alone in a car with the windows closed or cracked open. The air conditioner should be kept at a comfortable setting so that pets will not overheat. Remember, pets are wearing fur coats, and their body temperatures can soar to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes. Use a checklist when packing. Please include your pet on that list so you don’t forget the essentials: pet food, bowls, litter boxes, medications; everything that your pet might need. Pets should always travel in a secured manner. Cats should always travel in a cat carrier. and dogs should wear a harness that allows them to be secured to a seat belt. Dogs should never travel in the front seat or in the driver’s lap. They could get stuck near the foot petals or cause the airbags to deploy causing serious injury to the driver and pet. Make sure your pets have identification. This should include your name and contact information. Having your pet microchipped is a quick and easy way of retrieving owner information. Also, ask your veterinarian to give you a copy of your pet’s vaccine history, in case you need to seek medical attention while on your trip.
Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry has been an associate veterinarian of the BridgeMill Animal Hospital Team since 2015.
AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Dental Care for the College Student BY SCOTT V. MERRITT, DMD
There are many things for new college students – and their parents – to think about as they prepare for that first school year away from home. These include scheduling classes, making living arrangements, completing financial aid information, and planning for a great college experience. It’s easy for health care, especially dental care, to take a back seat to everything else. Yet, maintaining good athome and professional care will pay huge dividends later in life, when healthy teeth become more important than a fantastic spring break destination! Below are dental care tips for families that have students moving away from home for the first time. Help your student get more involved in the process of great dental care. For example, now is an ideal time to transfer the responsibility of scheduling appointments to your student. Similarly, remind them that they need to be more mindful of changes to their mouth now that they will be on their own and, naturally, will have fewer conversations with you. Determine where your student can receive care while away at school. For most college students, routine cleanings and checkups are still provided by their family’s dentist
during class breaks. However, it is important to have a plan in place for unexpected issues that may arise while on campus. Checking with the orientation coordinators about on-campus health facilities, and exactly what they offer, is a good first step to planning for emergencies. Send lots of dental care supplies. A good care package should not only include toothpaste, brushes, and floss, but also a custom mouthguard for those intramural sports leagues and Greek Week activities. Please also remember to pack retainers and a quality storage case, which are some of the most forgotten items during the move-in process. College is a very exciting and rewarding time for both students and parents. A little pre-planning for health care can go a long way toward ensuring the focus stays on advancing opportunities for learning, making valuable contacts, and, of course, having fun.
Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.
Communication in Health-Care Environments BY DR. SARAH LICHT
At some point, we can end up in the hospital – whether it’s for a few hours, a few days or a few months. It is important to make sure you understand what the physician or nursing staff is saying during those stays. One of the most effective ways to communicate in the hospital, or a rehabilitation facility, if you have hearing loss, is to make sure you bring your hearing aids with you, and, also, to ask for clarification if you do not understand. Having a laptop or whiteboard available can be useful for providing visual cues to make sure you are following along with the medical plan. Upon admission to the hospital, you can request an interpreter if American Sign Language or another language is your primary mode of communication. If you have one ear that is significantly better than the other, make sure the physician or nursing staff is aware to stand on your better side when giving instructions. Unfortunately, the hospital is also a place where items can become lost in transition from one room to another. So, here are some useful tips to help keep track of your hearing aids during hospital stays: • Remember to bring a hearing aid case with you. It is important to have a safe place to store the devices if you fall asleep or are being transported between rooms or beds. Make sure to label your case with a phone number in case it gets lost. 44
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• It may be useful to have a lanyard or Ear Gear (www.gearforears.com) attached to your hearing devices, so, if they do fall out of your ears in transport or during naps, they will dangle on the lanyard rather than falling on the floor or getting lost in the bedding. • Sometimes, hospital stays can be longer than expected, so remember to bring extra batteries or your rechargeable kit. • If you are worried about bringing your hearing aids to the hospital, you may be able to request an amplification device called a Pocket Talker. One study from the Canadian Medical Association Journal reported that good communication between clinicians and patients has been linked to better health-care outcomes, quality and safety. If you are unable to properly hear your diagnosis, you may provide incorrect case history to another physician, which could lead to a misdiagnosis. As a recent Hearing Journal article stated, “Poor communication is … unfortunate, but, in health care settings, it can be lethal.”
Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016.
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Business Owners Can Deduct HVAC Systems BY DAN JAPE
Buying commercial HVAC equipment is expensive, and wherever you can save money is ideal. There is a revision to an old tax code that cuts you an unbelievable break with significant returns. Title 26 U.S. Code Section 179 states, “A taxpayer may elect to treat the cost of any section 179 property as an expense which is not chargeable to capital account. Any cost so treated shall be allowed as a deduction for the taxable year in which the section 179 property is placed in service … Qualified Real Property applicable includes heating, ventilation and air-conditioning property.”
marginal tax rate that would be applied to this purchase that would save you $5,180 in taxes.
• What else does Section 179 mean? The old deduction maximum was $500,000 and it is increased to $1,000,000, and the phase out threshold increases from $2,000,000 to $2.5 million. Business owners, now is the time to make investments in improving your property, plant and equipment. Maximize your profits by taking full advantage of this incredible HVAC tax break.
• What does it really mean? Let’s say you bought a new heating and cooling rooftop unit for your business, and the equipment and labor costs are $14,000. Under old depreciation rules, you could claim a $350 expense annually over 39 years. Under the new law, you deduct the full cost of the HVAC equipment. At the top
Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating & Air. He can be reached at 770-594-9969.
VARSITY FOOTBALL Sequoyah Chiefs Games start at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 46
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@ Cherokee @ Osborne vs Dalton vs Campbell Bye @ Creekview vs River Ridge vs South Cobb @ Sprayberry vs Harrison @ Allatoona
Cherokee Warriors Games start at 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 26 Nov. 2
@ North Forsyth vs Sequoyah @ North Hall vs Kennesaw Mountain @ Cartersville Bye @ Etowah @ Roswell vs Woodstock vs Walton vs Lassiter
Elm Street
A New Year – Journey With Us! BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
OK – so it isn’t a new year like we typically talk about (the year is flying by, but it isn’t 2019 yet). But, for many of us, August starts the next school year, the next season of life, the next, next, next … we are so worried about the next thing. At Elm Street, we constantly think about the next thing. It is a trap, and we fall into it every week. So, for this upcoming year, we are focusing on the journey. In fact, we named our 2018-19 year the Season of Journey. So, instead of worrying about the next thing, we will remind ourselves about the journey we are on.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
SEPT 14-23
FRI/SAT AT 7:30PM | SUN AT 2:30PM
I hardly believe in universal truths, but here are a few generally accepted thoughts about journeys that I think you’ll agree on with me:
1. 2.
Journeys define us. They are important markers of our lives. And they remind us of who we are, not just what we’ve achieved. Journeys reveal our shortcomings. They show us we are not alone in this world; that there are other wanderers searching for truth and meaning in this great big, confusing universe.
3.
Journeys teach us about life. Richard Rohr said we go on journeys so we never have to go again. I sort of agree. We can spend a semester abroad, take a year to backpack Europe, or volunteer with the Peace Corps (or Elm Street) to remember that life is the grand adventure. Once we learn this, we never stop traveling (even if we never leave home). In the end, the journey is what you make it. We are anticipating a fantastic time at Elm Street as we grow with the inspiring Lantern Series (check out Sam Reider and the Human Hands Sept. 15), the theater’s new season starting next month with a comedy by Steve Martin, “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” and the new Reeves House coming on the horizon in a few months. With all of the exciting next things coming up, hopefully, you will join us in creating vibrancy in our community. Just as important though, we hope you join us for the sake of the journey and cherish the moment, as well.
SAM REIDER & THE HUMAN HANDS Sept 15, 2018 Lantern Series Presenting Partner:
Call or visit us on the web to learn about our Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.
FALL CLASSES
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Back-to-School Bash PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM
Give a Kid a Chance - Cherokee hosted the 13th annual event on July 14 at First Baptist Church Canton and Hillside United Methodist in Woodstock. Photos on this page are from the Canton location. More than 500 volunteers helped distribute 2,700 backpacks in the two locations. More than 70 businesses, churches and civic organizations pitched in as well. For more details about the nonprofit, visit www.giveakidachance. org.
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SCHOOL & SPORTS
Back to School Blues BY MATT NEAL
If you open your windows and listen carefully, you can hear a familiar sound echoing through our streets and neighborhoods. Parents, teachers and kids alike are giving a collective groan − school is back in session. Early morning buses, making lunches, homework, studying and after school activities create a bit of extra stress, as we struggle to force our bodies and spirits back into that frame of mind. In our household, we do something to help make the transition. We each have to come up with a few things that we are looking forward to, just a few good things about returning to school. My wife is looking forward to having a cleaner house. When the kids are home, they usually are making a mess. For my kids, it’s time to get new clothes. Back-to-school sales are in full swing, and shoes appear higher on the list this year, for some reason. Both my kids have a heightened degree of excitement when we go shopping. My kids unanimously agreed that the best part of returning to school is seeing their friends again, some of whom they haven’t seen in months. As an adult, I often forget how important this is, and how difficult it often is for young people to get together with friends. When we are out and about with my daughter, and she happens to
run into a school chum she hasn’t seen since spring, it’s quite a sight to watch, as they squeal and laugh and hug. At their age, they are slowly transitioning their devotions from family to friends, and I know enough to respect that. My daughter informed me of one more thing she’s looking forward to. During the summer, as our schedules get lax and we sleep later, mealtimes aren’t always when she is expecting. During school, she is guaranteed lunch at a certain time every day. For many people in our community, it’s more important than we realize. Many kids rely on both breakfast and lunch at school, and, for some kids, those may be the only meals they get each day. So, that’s definitely something to be glad about. For me, I’m actually a bit sad. Each new school year is one more step until they are fully grown and ready to leave us to start their own lives. So, make sure you take those first-day-of-school pictures. It’s something you can treasure for years to come.
Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at mattnealwriter@outlook.com.
Make This Your Best Back-to-School Ever BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
We love back-to-school season. While summer break offers us time to complete important work, like upgrading technology, training teachers and improving campuses, we count down the days until we can welcome back students and focus on our primary mission of teaching and learning. Back-to-school time is a lot like New Year’s – a time for students to make a fresh start, and not just by cracking open new boxes of crayons or zipping up jeans still creased from the store shelf. Here’s some advice on how you can help your child have the best back-to-school season ever. Build relationships. Attend your school’s open house/walkthrough event and curriculum night, participate in parent-teacher conferences and principal coffees, and join the PTA and attend its events. Relationships matter, and your involvement can help you gain insights into your child’s learning style, skills levels, and opportunities and resources for growth. Set goals. Just as we, as parents, “know our why” and set goals, so should our children. Talk with your child about the importance of doing his or her best at school and determining favorite subjects and activities (including which could possibly be a career focus). Set some specific short- and long-term goals for academic success. While this is most important for older students, even younger children appreciate understanding why they’re asked to do something, and the benefits. 50
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Find a mentor. We’re committed to ensuring that each student has a mentor at school, who is there to listen and provide support. A mentor can be a teacher, coach or club sponsor, but it also can be a school counselor, media specialist, other staff member or regular volunteer. If your child needs help finding a mentor, ask the school counselor for guidance. Seek assistance. Our school district offers significant resources to students and families, whether it’s connecting you to a community organization that provides medical, housing or other assistance; helping you navigate the world of special education services; or providing you with the name of a Cherokee County School District teacher who offers after-school tutoring. Please reach out to the front office of your child’s school for assistance whenever you’re in need. We’re dedicated to continuous improvement of our services. If you haven’t read our latest CCSD Connections parent newsletter, check it out at http://cherokeek12.net/newsletter. You’ll learn about our newest improvements, including an enhanced system for making anonymous tips to school police; districtwide expansion of our bus tracking app; and the introduction of a new app featuring photos of our schools’ cafeteria menu items.
Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.
Find the people living in poverty in these pictures. That’s right. You can’t. Poverty isn’t always easy to spot. In fact, people at the end of hope are just like you.
Donations needed now Financial donations New socks and Underwear · Blankets www.mustministries.org 111 Brown Industrial Parkway Canned meat Canton, GA 30114
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YOUR SCHOOL NEWS School Nutrition Program is a Winner The Cherokee County School District’s school nutrition program won a state Best Practice Award. The program, led by Director Tina Farmer, has been named a Georgia USDA Best Practice Award winner in the category of Farm to School Programs for the second consecutive year. “We are committed to providing students with meals that not only meet nutrition standards, but also use fresh, local ingredients in taste-tested recipes made from scratch in our kitchens,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower said. A diverse group of judges met to consider each entry, said Nancy Rice, State Director of School Nutrition for the Georgia Department of Education, with only 50 Georgia USDA Best Practice Awards awarded statewide.
Tina Farmer
Externship Gives School Counselors Fresh Perspective Cherokee County School District school counselors recently learned about more career options for students through the Summer Externship program − a collaboration with local businesses and industries. The program gave school counselors the opportunity to visit employers including: Arrow Exterminators, Astra Group Construction, Killian Automotive, Northside Hospital Cherokee (Batson Cook Construction), R&D Mechanical Services, Roytech Industries and Universal Alloy Corporation.
Dr. Rouel C. Belleza, supervisor of the school district’s student services department, coordinated the visits with the Cherokee County Office of Economic Development, which partnered with the school district on the program supported by the Georgia Department of Education. “The intent of the externship was to further expose industry and skill labor opportunities as viable career fields for the present and future students of Cherokee County,” Belleza said.
School counselors participating in the program included, front row, from left: Whitney Morberg, Etowah High School; Taran Smith, Etowah High School; Kristie Sikes, Creekview High School; Adina Walker, Dean Rusk Middle School. Back row: Dr. Rouel C. Belleza, supervisor of student services department; Michele Dowd, Etowah High School; Taylor Herman, Dean Rusk Middle School; Connie Hatcher, Arnold Mill Elementary School; Tracy Tuck, Cherokee High School; Rod Metcalf, Woodstock Middle School; Kelly Schalliol, Tippens Educational Center; Kelly Brangan, River Ridge High School; and Alina Saavedra, ACE Academy. 52
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Counselor of the Year Doesn’t Take Summers Off
From left: Cherokee County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower, Daniela McBride and Liberty Elementary School Assistant Principal Rad Dixon.
Volunteers Make a Difference In Our Schools Daniela McBride was named the Liberty Elementary School 2018 Volunteer of the Year. Known as Miss Daniela, she embodies the school’s #BeKind spirit as she sells PTA ice cream and serves as a PTA vice president servant-leader, spending many hours in the school’s office and classrooms. The school’s principal said, “She has the intrinsic character values that we want our students to emulate as they become adults and productive citizens in our community.”
School Receives State Grant Sixes Elementary School received a $6,970 grant for its Growing Young Readers Through STAR Time initiative. The grant was awarded by the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement’s competitive Tiny Grant program. Instructional lead specialist Tori Sinco wrote the successful grant, which will be used to purchase materials for reading activities to supplement county provided English language arts guided reading books. Tori Sinco
Mable Ferry of Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy was named the Cherokee Innovation Zone 2018 Counselor of the Year. She is known for devoting her summers to doing what she does for students during the school year − making sure they have enough to eat, clothes to wear, and plenty of hugs and attention. She volunteers with the MUST Ministries Summer Lunch Mable Ferry Program and Cherokee County Give A Kid A Chance to support her own students, as well as others in need. Her dedication is one of many examples cited as to why she deserved the recognition. One colleague said: “All Hasty students and families know they have a friend and advocate in Mrs. Ferry. She readily goes to bat for anyone in crisis, whether the situation be at home or school, physical or emotional, involving others or self-inflicted.” Among the successful programs established and championed by Ferry during the past 13 years are: the Client Choice Pantry in partnership with MUST Ministries, the Project Backpack food program in partnership with local churches, and the Shoes That Fit program in partnership with Rack Room Shoes. “My Hasty family understands the need to foster the whole child. Our students, while many have high needs both inside and outside of the classroom, are cared for, loved and respected by all. I feel truly blessed to be able to lead that charge,” Ferry said.
Send Us Your Back to School Pictures! We love sharing your first day of school pictures. Send us photos from the bus stop, front porch, carpool line − or wherever you celebrate back to school. Email to jackie@ aroundaboutmagazines.com and include first names and grades. Deadline is Aug. 10.
Principal Jan Adamson poses with first-grader Emma, preschooler Hudson and fifthgrader Tucker for R.M. Moore Elementary‘s Facebook firstday selfies last year. AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Joseph Lemmo with some of his seventh-grade students who were published during his last year at E.T. Booth this past year.
There’s a New Teacher in Town BY JOE LEMMO
Greetings! My name is Joseph Lemmo, and I will be teaching fifth-grade English, language arts and social studies at Holly Springs Elementary School Stem Academy this year. This will be my 19th year of teaching in the Cherokee County School District. I started my career teaching fifth grade at Chapman Intermediate School in Towne Lake, and then moved next door to E.T. Booth Middle School where I recently finished my 10th year of teaching seventh grade. While I was teaching seventh grade, I had the opportunity to have my students published in the TowneLaker magazine each month. The articles ranged in topics, but maintained an overall focus on “how words are powerful” and “the importance of communicating effectively.” Now that I will be teaching fifth grade at Holly Springs in Canton, I’m excited to announce that my current students will have the opportunity to be published each month throughout the school year in Around Canton magazine. In the months to come, the articles will cover a variety of topics that will be based on inspiration throughout the year, and will have an overall theme of effective communication. It is my goal to help my students realize how important it 54
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is to communicate effectively through speaking, writing and listening, and I want you to be a part of that journey. I can’t wait to share my students’ work with you, the Canton community. Throughout my 18 years of teaching, I have witnessed many talented writers, and I have no doubt that my current students will have some brilliant writing to share with this amazingly supportive community. This year, I will also be sponsoring a club called Bro-ties, a male leadership club specifically for fourth- and fifthgrade young men, who may benefit from positive male leadership. Throughout the year, I will share some of the lessons being taught as well as feedback from the students. I’m excited to start this new school year and to begin sharing these articles with you. I always welcome feedback, so please don’t hesitate to contact me with comments – positive or negative. But, mainly send the positive!
Joe Lemmo is a fifth grade teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv in the Atlanta area. He and his wife have one son.
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Fall Consignment Sales Aug. 9-11
Aug. 17-18
9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Adults who donate $5 cash to missions at the door, can shop at 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning. (No donation needed for children.) His Hands Church 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock http://all4kids.com.
8 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Trinity UMC 814 West Ave., Cartersville www.godslittlesprouts.com.
All 4 Kids Woodstock
Aug. 16-18
All 4 Kids, Marietta
9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Adults who donate $5 cash to missions at the door, can shop at 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning. (No donation needed for children.) Cobb County Civic Center 548 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta http://all4kids.com.
Aug. 17-18
Born Again Blessings
9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday Riverstone Church 2005 Stilesboro Road NW, Kennesaw www.bornagainblessings.com.
Canton First Baptist Kids Sale 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Canton First Baptist Church 1 Mission Point, Canton www.fbckidssale.com. 56
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God’s Little Sprouts
Aug. 23-25
All 4 Kids, East Cobb
9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Adults who donate $5 cash to missions at the door, can shop at 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning. (No donation needed for children.) Mt. Paran North Church of God 1700 Allgood Road, Marietta http://all4kids.com.
Aug. 24-25 NOWAMOM
6:30-9 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Sandy Plains Baptist Church 2825 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta www.nowamom.org.
Due West Treasure Chest
9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon Saturday Due West UMC 3856 Due West Road, Marietta www.duewest.org.
Sept. 6-8
Johns Creek UMC Children’s Sale
6-8 p.m. Thursday 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Johns Creek UMC 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek www.johnscreekumc.org.
Sept. 7-8
RUMC Consignment Sale
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon Saturday Roswell UMC 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell www.roswellumc.org/rumck.
Sept. 13-15
Cumming First UMC
8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday and Saturday Cumming First UMC, 770 Canton Highway, Cumming cfumcga.com/kids-consignment-sale.
Sept. 14-15
Green With Envy Kids
9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday Alpharetta/Cumming area; location to be announced. www.greenwithenvykids.com.
A business networking party! SCHMOOZE \’shmüz\ (verb): to converse casually, especially for social and business connections PALOOZA \’pa•lü•zah\ (noun): a large scale party!
Located at:
Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Pkwy., Woodstock
The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Tuesday, August 21st 4:00-7:00 pm Free Admission! Networking
Exhibitors
A Taste of Cherokee Give-aways & Door Prizes
Meeting: Aug. 31 Cherokee County Office of Economic Development
Open to the Public!
For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz
Presented by:
Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available
Supported by:
www.CherokeeChamber.com 770-345-0400 Brandy@CherokeeChamber.com AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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REFERENCE
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS #ForCanton 271 Marietta Road. Provides immediate needs of food, clothing and offer life skills classes. 770-345-3030. www.forcanton.com. Ahimsa House helps victims of domestic violence 24 hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org.
Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.
Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com.
Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Gina Jeter 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.
Anna Crawford Children’s Center is dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.
Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.
Bethany Place is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. 770-479-9462. www.bethanyplacehome.org. CASA for Children promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115 or admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services.
Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org. Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864 or info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other homegoods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries helps empower and provide humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation works to establish literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org.
Collins Dixon Foundation: Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness and helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Contact: Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560.
MUST Ministries offers groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org.
Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com.
National Alliance for Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org.
Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com.
Never Alone Outreach provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org.
Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
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Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program,
Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. Papa’s Pantry is a year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org. Pet Buddies Food Pantry helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org. The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. Tom Prior 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council is a nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8 pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Reba 770-516-3502. www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.hp?district=17. American Heart Association - Cherokee Division 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. Caregivers Alzheimers Support Group Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday of Every Other Month at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Rd. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House
678-459-2347 www.MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group provides support for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs. Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@comcast. net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294. christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637 gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Jeannie 770-919-9275.
CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 45, Meets 7 p.m. fourth Thursday at 160 McClure St. 770-479-4405. AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50+ Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Cost is $15. Rich Sanford, 770-926-1944. BridgeMill-Sixes Service League Marlyn Patouillet 770- 345-7941, www.bssl.org. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Canton Lions Club 678- 224-7878. www.lionsofcanton.org. Canton Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Canton IHOP. canton_optimist@hotmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/home. Canton Rotary Club Meets: Noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs, www.cantongarotary.org. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Cherokee County Service League 770-704-5991. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20. Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com.
Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com.
Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 770-480-4179.
La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770-517-0191.
VFW Post 5262 Meets 7 p.m. second Thursday at 278 Moose Loop Canton off Marietta Highway 404-275-2066.
MOMS Club of Woodstock-TowneLake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. Kelly 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club Meets: Noon on third Thursdays at Canton IHOP Glenda Hinton 770-345-1751. Canton Communicators Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Thursdays at the Canton YMCA. Steven Van Schooten 770-366-8224. www.toastmasters.org. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/.
Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net.
Woodstock Lions Club Meets: second and fourth Tuesday at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Woodstocklionsclub@gmail.com or 770-906-2958.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Cherokee County Democrat Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursdays at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 8:30 a.m. first Saturdays at IHOP, 3010 Northside Parkway, Canton 30014. 770- 345-3489. www.cherokeedemocrats.com/d2. Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop. Cherokee Republican Assembly Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday at Holly Springs Train Depot 164 Hickory Road Kevin Wright 502-649-0089 or kevinwwrightenterprises@gmail.com. Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall in Woodstock. Conrad Quagliaroli 770- 378-8232.
Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Chick-fil-A on 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678- 520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the lake. Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale A community of singers from all walks of life who love the art of choral singing. 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/ mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club Hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) Roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association Linda Lokey 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Kingdom Riders A forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. 770-924-7464. www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com. Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center Offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. 678-445-6518. AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org
Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org
ORTHODOX
St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
ROMAN CATHOLIC Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com
UNITED METHODIST
Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247 www.ballground.church/ Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org
OTHERS
Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life
Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org
Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org AROUND CANTON | August 2018
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com
August 2018
ANIMALS/PETS
CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com
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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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Pet Play Place 770-733-9123 www.petplayplace.com
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com
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AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906
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BEAUTY & HAIR SALON Magnolia Salon and Spa, The 770-224-6502 www.themagspa.com
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Mary Kay Nina Rose, 770-905-4014 www.marykay.com/nrose18
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BUSINESS SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS Downtown Buzz 57 www.mainstreetwoodstock.org/ connect/#buzz Schmooza Palooza 770-345-0400 www.CherokeeChamber.com 62
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CLEANING SERVICES Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743
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LGE Community Credit Union www.LGEccu.org
Mission Academy 404-444-0249 www.MissionAcademyGA.com
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org
ATTORNEYS
Tidwell Strimban 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
(Prominence Point) 770-720-3003 www.GoddardSchool.com
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Inside front
DENTAL
Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com HOME & GARDEN Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)
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ClearView Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing 45 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com
BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.bridgemilldentistry.com
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Canton Dental Town 770-622-1515 www.dentaltownsmiles.com
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Glacier Custom Pools 404-425-3714 www.glaciercustompools.com
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Dentistry at Hickory Flat 770-213-8166 www.HickoryFlatDentist.com
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Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.LandscapeMattersInc.com
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Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com
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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 14 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com Williams Orthodontics Canton: 770-345-4155 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com
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EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION Goddard School, The
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Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com
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Outdoor Living 706-301-5698 www.myenclosedporch.com
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Ray’s Septic Service 770-224-8905 rooterrays@gmail.com
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Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com
Back cover
WellStar & Mayo Clinic 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com
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Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 13 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com Medical Assoc. of North Georgia 770-479-5535 www.MedAssoc.com
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Northside Hospital Cherokee 11 www.northside.com/Cherokee-Sports Northside Vascular Surgery 770-292-3490 www.NVS-GA.com Perimeter North Family Medicine 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com
Plastic Surgery Center of the South 770-421-1242
www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net
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PHOTOGRAPHY Rebekah Gregg Photography 51 678-637-7518 www.rebekahgreggphotography.com REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Kristie Bledsoe 404-406-0340 Kristie.Bledsoe.BHHSGeorgia.com Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com
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Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
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Hobgood Baseball www.HobgoodPark
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Sequoyah Football
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RETAILERS/ SHOPPING 14
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Serenity 37 770-592-2404 www.TreetopResidential.com RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Warriors Football
Downtown Canton First Fridays www.cantonga.gov
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Crossfire Volleyball Club Cover, 32, 33 www.crossfirevolleyballclub.com www.phoenixrisingvb.com
Flag Company, The 770-974-0507 www.Flagco.com
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SENIOR LIVING Arbor at BridgeMill, The 770-284-4864 www.ArborBridgeMill.com
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Lodge at BridgeMill, The 770-479-4639 www.TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com
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Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-460-8459 www.ManorLakeBR.com
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
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Keep your home safe each season and save energy! Includes 1” pleated filter.
Camera inspection, high power vacuum, power whip all duct work, wash & scrub all HVAC grills & registers, blower & drain pan, 1” pleated filter, indoor evaporator coil, deodorize system.
Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/1/18.
Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/1/18.
RELIABLEAIR.COM
CALL/TEXT (770) 594-9969
#1 SELLING TANKLESS WATER HEATER $
44/MONTH
Enjoy endless hot water and lifetime repair, service and maintenance included! Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/1/18.