8-18 Townelaker Webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Contents

48 & 49 On the Cover

Towne Plumber Shane Mahaffey Photo by J. King Images

August 2018

In Every Issue

Features

Contributors

12 Hospital Construction

4 Around Towne

34 Don Akridge

Northside Cherokee CEO Billy Hayes gives

8 Community News

81 Christopher Brazelton

update, shares plans for growth.

14 Birthdays & Celebrations

52 Stacy Brown

42 Towne Lake Dining Guide

16 Turning the Tables

46 Everyday Angels

Never mind the students; teachers tell us

54 TLBA

what they did on summer vacation.

56 Community Calendar

22 Artistic Impact

12 Candi Hannigan 78 John Harris

60 Library Events

44 James Imbriale 20 Barbara P. Jacoby

To celebrate American Artist Appreciation

64 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide

Month, Ann Litrel introduces us to local

70 School News

artists.

76 Greenprints Trail Map

68 Back to School Bash

28 Michael Caldwell

54 Dan Jape 39 Drs. Andy & Ambre Kragor

84 Robâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rescues

29 Kurt & Sheila Johnson

88 Recent Home Sales

38 Dr. Sarah Licht

90 Clubs & Orgs

22 Ann Litrel

Give a Kid a Chance - Cherokee helped

2,700 students during its 13th year of

92 Church Listings

serving others.

94 Directory of Advertisers

40 Dr. Michael Litrel 36 Matt Neal 78 Bill Ratliff 80 Lynne Saunders

Advertising

79 Susan Schulz

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

@Townelaker

50 Tim Timmons 37 Dr. Amber York 38 Shelley Winter townelakermagazine

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

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 Marlan Yoder with his benevolent art chose new books, stuffed animals, nearly-new project. Photo courtesy His Hands Church. clothing, and received haircuts and health screenings at a back-to-school bash. See pages 68-69. 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 again 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 46 for the August feature. Woodstock resident Lynne Saunders’ desire to help others turned into Papa’s Pantry, a successful nonprofit celebrating 20 years of service this month. A ministry that she squeezed in during evenings and on weekends became a fulltime job that ensures stability in financially insecure homes. See page 80. 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 TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@ AroundaboutMagazines.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

What’s New Ol’ Time Barber Shop has opened at 6721 Bells Ferry Road, Suite D122, Woodstock, near Goodwill. Master barbers are fluent in all hair types and styles. Customers get free coffee while waiting, and access to a WiFi bar. 770-648-4805. www.oltimebarbershop.com. Tequilas Taqueira & Bar has opened at 6380 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770 372-3132. Search for them on Facebook. Power Dance & Fitness has opened at 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 1500. The home of the National Champion PowerTaps Cloggers also offers new fitness and dance options like Irish step dancing and Zumba. 770-710-1152. www.powertapsclogging.com. Dr. Esther Dorzin has joined North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists at the Northside Cherokee medical campus at 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 404, Woodstock. www.northgaobgyn.com. Dr. Don Beringer, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in total shoulder replacement, has joined Arthritis & Total Joint Specialists at the Northside Cherokee medical campus. http://arthritisandtotaljoint.com. At press time, Costco had announced the grand opening of the Woodstock store for 8 a.m. Aug. 9.

What’s Coming Marco’s Pizza at 2068 Eagle Drive in Towne Lake is scheduled to reopen in late August, according to district manager Jared Delaney. Site development plans for a McAlister’s Deli have been submitted to the county for approval, for a location at the corner of Eagle Drive and Rose Creek Boulevard, next to National Tire and Battery. No word on the progress was available at press time.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.

Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally

published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@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 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home

Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.

Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Fla., has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2018. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 4

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

COMMUNITY

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Street Improvements Underway in Woodstock

Hayes Thomas and Caden Walker are members of the scout troop that meets at Hillside UMC.

Scouting Opportunities for Boys Cub Scout Pack 994, which meets at Hillside UMC, and Pack 999, meeting at Bascomb UMC, are open to new members. Scouts enjoy indoor and outdoor adventures year-round, including family camping trips and local service projects. Boys build their own vehicles for the Pinewood Derby, Space Derby and Raingutter Regatta. Visit www.townelakescouting.com for more information, or contact Penny Clendaniel at penny. clendaniel@gmail.com (Pack 994) or Brian Teijeiro at teijeiro_brian@comcast.net (Pack 999).

Construction has begun on phase two of the South Main Streetscapes Transportation Enhancement project in downtown Woodstock, a federally funded plan that will extend the streetscapes from Oak Street to Fowler Street. Access to businesses won’t be affected; work will take place 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, with an April 2019 expected completion date. Work hours may vary depending on holiday, weather and events, but the impact on traffic should be minimal. For more information, call 770-592-6000. The initial phase was completed in 2010, developing Towne Lake Parkway to Fowler Street. “This streetscape project was envisioned in the early 2000s with the Downtown Master Plan and Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Plan, completed in partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC),” said Brantley Day, community development director. Oak Street to Fowler Street will have the same look and feel as the rest of downtown. The project includes 12 parking spaces, 8-foot sidewalk on the west side of Main Street, 6-foot sidewalk on the east side, decorative brick pavers and planters, street furniture, including benches and trash cans, decorative street lights, street trees on the east side, and landscaping, joined by curb and gutter, resurfacing and new striping. “The Transportation Enhancement (TE) program was established to enrich the traveling experience of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians through enhancements to our transportation system. Federal funding for TE projects is allotted to provide aesthetic and functional improvements to historical, natural and scenic areas,” according to the Department of Transportation website. http://www.dot.ga.gov/IS/Funding/TE.

Birds * Ferrets * Bunnies * Ragdoll & Ragamuffin Kittens * Snakes * Tarantulas * Hamsters * Lizards * Chinchillas * More!

In-stock books only. Exp 8/31/18

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Wing OR Nail Trim (Limit 1 per Customer) Exp 8/31/18

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

YOUR LOCAL NEWS 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:

People's Choice Award: The Home Depot, Woodstock

And the Winners Are … More than 90 floats took part in this year’s Independence Day parade in downtown Woodstock, cheered on by a large, patriotic and energized crowd. The panel of judges included Val and Shaun Harty, Woodstock Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Members, and Marilyn Leonard, wife of former city council member. Council member Warren Johnson and former member Bud Leonard announced the parade.

Most Original Float: Trail Life USA Troop 0184

The troop’s float featured all the outdoor activities that boys love to do, including kayaking, archery, hiking, camping, cycling and pinewood derbies.

Best Holiday Float: Let’s Pretend Publishing

This patriotic themed float included the flags from each branch of the military.

People’s Choice Award: The Home Depot – Woodstock

Snoopy and Woodstock shared their patriotic spirit in a huge re-creation of the U.S. Constitution.

History & Heritage Award: Jim Cook

A tribute to the U.S. Army’s Golden Knights Parachute Team with the restored fuselage of a 1971 Fokker F-27 Friendship, the aircraft flown by the Knights and soon to be retired.

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 James Perry of the Carrollton Police Department read about other state games. Perry approached Jim Herbert, Firefighter Rick Ehlke 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. 10

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

• 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.

As a heart patient at Northside Hospital Cherokee, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have your own team of board certified cardiologists, nurses and expert staff to help you get through a heart problem. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also have a team to teach you healthy habits, so that your heart will keep getting stronger even after you leave. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart. TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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 12

TOWNELAKER | 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.”

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Celebrations!

Mark Berrio turned 40 on July 17 Happy 40th birthday! Love Mami, Joscie, TJ, Christian and Lili

Christian will be 4!

August 23 Love and hugs, Mommy

Happy 15th birthday, Madeline!

July 18 So beautiful inside and out. Love you, Mom, Dad, Madison and Bella

Andrew Wolfe

Happy 10th birthday, Andrew! We love you so much! Mom, Anna and Amelia

Jay Johns

Age 1 on Aug. 17 Happy first birthday to our little Jay bug! Mommy and Daddy love you so much!

Happy 12th birthday, Jack!

It’s hard to believe how fast the time has gone. We are so very proud of the wonderful young man you are becoming. Love you very much, Mommy, Daddy and Chloe

Kathleen Rice

Gram Schroeder

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

Happy 92nd birthday! We love you very much! Love always, Tim, Dianne, Matt, Heather and Christin

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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 Lisa Reidy

ESOL teacher, kindergarten–fifth grade Oak Grove Elementary

Kristin Sickeler

Fifth grade English, language arts and social studies Oak Grove Elementary This summer, Kristin Sickeler and I enjoyed our sixth year of Summer Reading Club with our Oak Grove Elementary Fine Arts Academy students. Our students were invited to the Hidden Falls clubhouse every Wednesday at 11 a.m. to pick up a lunch, borrow some books and get a Popsicle. This year, we added slime making to the fun! Each week we made a different type of slime: puffy slime, clear slime, colored slime, sparkly slime, crunchy slime, and we finished up the summer Lisa Reidy and Kristin Sickeler wave goodbye on the last day of school. making edible slime. A good and slimy time was had by our Oak Grove kids, their siblings and moms, Oak Grove teachers and community volunteers. Kristin and I will be saying goodbye to our Oak Grove family this year. Kristin will be taking a short sabbatical, and I will be going to Holly Springs Elementary to teach fourthand fifth-grade math and science. It is our plan to continue our extension of the Summer Reading Club program, called Homework Help, every Wednesday, 4-5 p.m., at the Hidden Falls clubhouse, beginning in the fall. If you are interested in volunteering or donating supplies, feel free to contact us at lisa.reidy@ cherokee.k12.ga.us or kristinsickeler@gmail.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Anthony Hughes

Special education teacher E.T. Booth Middle School This being our first summer in our new house, and planning an extensive road trip in September, we opted for the staycation during our time off. We did venture back home to Florida for a few days to see family and friends, yet the bulk of the summer was spent in Hughes and his family met a new the greater Atlanta area. friend during their trip to Wild Close to home, projects Animal Safari. inside and out occupied the first week of summer. Getting settled and shortening my to-do list took priority. Initially, there were various sports camps for the boys to attend, which was usually followed by a variety of pool options to beat the heat. Playing chauffeur was my main responsibility, as well. When the weather cooperated, Lake Allatoona served as the go-to place for many of activities we enjoy. Boating, tubing, fishing and an occasional rope swing, were all part of the fun on the lake. When we really wanted to burn some energy, we would seek a new bike trail to explore. I am impressed with the additional renovations on some of the local trails. When outdoor activities were not possible, I could be seen shuttling a group of kids to the local bowling alley, trampoline park or catching up on the latest movie; always a good time. There was a little work to be done in between play time. The boys were given a few school-related tasks to complete, and I was not exempt, either. I attended a few training seminars within the county and registered for classes seeking an additional degree. A few day trips included Braves games and an unforgettable drive through Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, Ga. If you like getting up close to animals from the comfort of a car, it's hilarious. I highly recommend using their car, and there's a reason they offer you a slobber towel.

Donna Ratliff

Eighth grade counselor E.T. Booth Middle School As I looked at vacation sites for the summer, Graceland (Elvis’ home) wasn’t one I typically would have picked. However, I have several Elvis fans in my family who have always wanted to go, so off we went. On our journey to Memphis, we passed through Tupelo, Miss., where Elvis was born, so we stopped to see the house and museum. His legacy lives on in that town in a big way. We spent the next day at his mansion, Graceland. It has undergone a multi-million dollar renovation in recent years, and has become a top tourist destination. The museum housing his cars, costumes, records and memorabilia from other musicians, as well as his, was impressive. There was so much more to the place than we first imagined. Every room had a story to tell. We left Graceland singing “Blue Suede Shoes” and other Elvis tunes. Our trip turned out to be more than a visit to see Elvis. Memphis offers so many opportunities to have fun and learn something new. Our relatives who live there were the ultimate tour guides. We arrived downtown in time to see the famous Peabody duck march. The red carpet is rolled out and the ducks march their way through the hotel lobby. We saw spectacular views of the mighty Mississippi River and the city. As I contemplate this vacation trip, several things stand out to me. Being a history lover, I enjoyed viewing the Mississippi River and thinking about its role in the expansion of America. Seeing my family members enjoy the music and memories of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll was a joy. Experiencing the sights, sounds and culture of a new place was a refreshing learning experience.

Donna Ratliff enjoyed the museum at Graceland, home of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.

Erika Brand and Laura Blakes enjoying the Woodstock Summer Concert Series.

Erika Brand

Third grade teacher Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy I spent my whole summer as one big staycation and it was fabulous! I started out the summer with my favorite hobby: running. My family and I run a race every month, and June was no different. I actually placed fourth in my age group! In July, I was put on the sidelines by my doctor, but I was there to cheer on my husband as he ran the Peachtree Road Race. Several of my summer days and nights were spent at SunTrust Park. One night was very special, because my husband’s cousin was pitching against the Braves. Zack Wheeler is a starting pitcher for the New York Mets, and we had the entire family out to support him. This is the only time you will see me in anything other than a Braves jersey. All for family, right? I love being outdoors, so it was no surprise that I spent a couple of days on the lake. We enjoyed going to Lake Wedowee in Alabama, and Lake Allatoona. We did everything from fishing and wakeboarding, to swimming and cruising around. Lake days are the best days. Finally, one of my favorite things about living in this town is our community. I enjoy the free summer concert series that takes place in downtown Woodstock. We haven’t missed a single one. My work BFF (Laura Blakes) and I attended the June concert together. It was her first one, and I bet she’ll be back. As you can see, my summer was filled with all play and no work, just the way I like it. However, I am beyond excited to get back to work and meet my new students for the 2018-19 school year.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Heidi Switzer

Drama teacher Woodstock Middle School

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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 walks and good conversation 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!

Heidi Switzer having fun with The Bean in Chicago.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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. 22

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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. 24

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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All Your Dental Needs ... All in One Place

hile not many changes have been made to the physical structure, the new doctor at 1816 Eagle Drive, Building 200-A, is W. Bruce Fink, DDS, a dentist who brings a full range of general, cosmetic and oral surgical procedures to Woodstock. Dr. Fink began treating patients at Dentistry for Woodstock at Fountain View, formerly Fountain View Family Dentistry, after Dr. Scott Harden left the practice in 2017. Dr. Fink provides such a wide spectrum of specialties that patients do not need to go anywhere else for treatment. He has more than 20 years of experience in the dental field. Dr. Fink received his undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and his doctorate of dental surgery from Indiana University School of Dentistry. Dr. Fink also has invested in continuing education endeavors, including studies in bone grafting and dental implants, from teachers around the world. “I’ve been in private practice in Atlanta since graduation in 1994,” he said. “Woodstock is a great area to raise our 15-year-old daughter and pursue her golf career at the many great courses in the area. My wife and I love working side by side in the practice. It just doesn’t seem like work when we do it together. Patients become friends and friends become family.” Dentistry for Woodstock offers general and cosmetic Dr. Fink with daughter Sierra, who is state champ for Georgia Independent dental treatments for Christian Athletic Association. preventive care and treatment to achieve a perfect smile, including teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, preventive care, family dentistry, wisdom teeth removal, endodontics, perio services, FastBraces and dental implants. Treatments are available for TMJ (a jaw disorder) and sleep issues. Sedation is also offered.

Bringing Back Smiles

“We love to help patients feel confident about their smile. There are many reasons for their insecurities. Patients have stopped smiling and we want to know why,” Dr. Fink said.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Because the mouth tells a story about overall health, Dr. Fink can help patients understand oral health issues. For example, sleep issues can cause dry mouth, clenching and grinding, which can contribute to head and neck pain. Medications also cause issues within the mouth. “We have seen a series of aha moments in our consultation rooms. There are tears when our patients realize that their oral health problems are not their fault, that, in fact, there are systemic conditions outside of their control that have brought them to this point in their dental health. They are relieved to have answers as we come alongside them to provide them the support they need,” Dr. Fink said. “We are not treating their diagnosed medical conditions, but helping them understand the factors that can contribute to their dental health. It’s not about their past dental habits, but they are here now, and that is what matters.” Oral and IV sedation is available to help during office visits. “It is important to us to calm the fears of anxious patients,” Dr. Fink said, beginning in the Pamper Room, where new patients visit with the dentist. A water fountain in each room, and illuminated domes in each operatory, add to the serene setting. Patients can enjoy a relaxing paraffin wax treatment, drinks from the coffee bar and shows on their favorite TV channels during their visit.

Financial Help

Dr. Fink wants his patients to relax about financing as well, and he offers in-house, no-interest payment plans for more expensive treatments. Dental discount plans are also available for patients with no dental insurance. Dentistry for Woodstock can bill medical plans as well as dental plans for treatment. The office is in-network with United Healthcare Medical, Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical and Medicare. “We see medical plans as an extra ‘wallet on the table,’ which can help to offset the cost of surgical medical treatment for our patients,” Dr. Fink said.

A Community Focus

Dentistry for Woodstock wants to be fully invested in the community and plans to sponsor a dental outreach day in the fall, offering care to residents of local shelters, and in the community. Plans are underway to offer field trips for students to learn about dental health and introduce them to the field of dentistry as a career path.

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Forward Momentum Needed in Next Session BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

In 2014, I shared an article with you about Georgia’s shift in policy on medical cannabis oil for those in need of treatment for specific conditions. At the time, the General Assembly had debated, but failed to pass, House Bill 885, sponsored by state Rep. Allen Peake, which would have established a license for patients of specific conditions and legalized use of the oil for those licensees. In 2015, the House and Senate adopted House Bill 1 into law, which achieved this objective. This original legislation specified eight conditions for which a patient could be eligible for a license. Another piece of legislation in 2016 added six additional conditions, and two more were added in 2018. In 2017, I was appointed by the speaker of the House to serve on the House Medical Marijuana Working Group. This committee of members met through the 2017 and 2018 legislative sessions to make recommendations regarding medical cannabis policy and how this program could be improved in Georgia. There are several places that we could and should dramatically improve medical cannabis laws in Georgia for the betterment of those suffering from conditions that genuinely can be helped by an oil that cannot cause a “high,” is nonaddictive and cannot be smoked. However, there is one major flaw that I hope to see the General Assembly remedy under a new governor. Current state law allows for cannabis oil to be possessed and used by licensees, but we are completely silent on how a patient is meant to acquire this medication. The federal government claims a constitutional right to regulate this substance due to interstate commerce concerns. Because we don’t allow for any form of cultivation of the product in Georgia, the only place a patient can acquire it is from outside our state borders. That means, although we do not

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

consider these patients criminals in Georgia, they are forced to commit a federal crime by crossing state borders with the medication. The members of the House Medical Marijuana Working Group presented House Bill 645 to the General Assembly that would have established an in-state cultivation program. This type of infrastructure has been established in 30 other states, and our legislation would have enabled the establishment of two cultivation locations in the state, with Georgia’s colleges and universities having the first right of refusal to operate the facilities. This legislation was stopped when Gov. Nathan Deal shared his opposition to any form of in-state cultivation. His argument that we need to lobby our congressional representatives is absolutely valid. The federal government needs to get serious about this issue and return power over it to the states. Legally controlled in-state cultivation is the only way to provide relief to these families without forcing them to commit a felony, and it is my honest hope that we will continue to see forward momentum on this issue in the new legislative session in 2019. As always, If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out to me on my cellphone at 678-5238570 or email me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You also can meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees With District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. Caldwell@house.ga.gov.

How the 'Sell Your Home to Us' Model Works BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

I'm sure you've heard the ads for companies that will buy your home from you so you don't have to put it on the market. These models fit loosely into two categories: homebuyers who buy a home in “as is” condition and homebuyers who buy homes that are in pristine, “list ready” condition. This article may shed some light on how these different business models work. With the “as is” model, the buyer purchases the home, no matter the condition. This type of buyer is generally a home remodeler that needs inventory to renovate. This type of home buying provides a valuable service to sellers who have a property that would be difficult to sell to a retail buyer using a traditional mortgage. Many of these homes require cash and need $5,000 to $50,000 in repairs. This method of buying has plenty of risks and, as a result, sellers net about 10 percent to 30 percent less than listing the property with a real estate agent. The “we'll buy it so you don't have to list it” model of buying homes works for a narrow segment of the market. Buyers using this business model need to find list-ready properties that need little to no work and ones that they expect will sell quickly. They need to buy their homes at

a discount of 5 percent to 10 percent. Homes that need repairs get discounted further, after a rigorous inspection. Additionally, there is a service fee ranging from 5 percent to 15 percent. This method of homebuying can net the seller about 10 percent-20 percent less than listing the property with a real estate agent. Clearly, the market is meeting a demand. If you have to sell quickly (less than 10 days), or your home is in need of significant updates or repairs, the first method may make sense for you. If your home is in near perfect retail condition and you can't wait the 30 to 45 days to sell (days necessary in this current market), the second choice may make sense for you. If your home is in good condition, and you can wait the average market time to sell, you will likely net 10 percent-20 percent more using a real estate agent.

Kurt and Sheila are a top-producing real estate team that lives in Towne Lake and has served Cherokee County for more than 15 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com

Two Locations

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Our physicians and staff offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle. Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Offers: • Exceptional Care: Board-certified physicians. Attentive & complete care for children birth - 18. • Timely Access: Same-day appointments available. Shorter wait times. • Efficient Follow-up: Timely feedback and reports. Next day test results available.

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Behind the Scenes

Woodstock Fire Department stays busy with more than rescues. The Woodstock Fire Department puts out fires and responds to various emergencies, along with many things that may go unnoticed. At a recent Main Street Woodstock networking event, Fire Chief Dave Soumas, Assist Chief/Fire Marshal Jimmy Eley and Community Outreach Coordinator Sgt. George Williams shed light on other elements of the department’s responsibilities. • Two-thirds of the 52 fire department members are available for rescue missions on the Taylor Randahl Memorial Bike Trails at Olde Rope Mill Park. While there isn’t a designated bike team, "we have many on each shift, so someone is always available,” Williams said. The trails attracted about 200,000 visitors last year, according to Woodstock Parks and Recreation Director Preston Pooser. • A partnership with the Home Depot and local homeowner associations ensures that fire alarms in older-neighborhood homes are installed or updated. • Safety in the workplace sessions are held in local businesses and senior living facilities, helping employees formulate an escape plan in case of fire. • The department partners with nonprofits in many ways, including Woodstock Public Safety Foundation and Shop With a Hero, providing EMS support for numerous 5K races and trail races within the city, and a partnership with Safe Kids worldwide. Locally, parents can schedule a child safety car seat check online at www. cherokeecountyfire.org or www. safekidscherokeecounty.org. • An annual open house at the station on Arnold Mill Road will take place this year 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 13. Open to the community, the day is filled with a free lunch, inflatables, music, games for the children, an extrication demonstration and other activities. More than 3,500 people visited last year. 30

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Woodstock firemen monitor the trails at Olde Rope Mill Park. Photo courtesy of Darleen Prem.

• A partnership with Woodstock Elementary reaches out to students in kindergarten, second and fourth grades. Fire officials bring the county’s Fire Safety House, where kindergarteners can experience a smoke-filled room, exit and go to a meeting place. Firefighters teach second-graders how to exit their home, stay low and go, who to call for help, and other safety basics. In fourth grade, a 3½-day program through science classes includes time spent studying a workbook, and creating a personal plan that guides students in creating a personal fire safety escape plan and designating meeting places for their families. • Woodstock’s police and fire departments partner to present the Citizen Public Safety Academy, an 11-week course that begins Aug. 30. Meetings are held 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays and participants take field trips to the training center to witness a vehicle extrication, and learn how a thermal imaging camera works. A trip to the sheriff’s department training center

offers a lesson on judgmental shooting. To apply, visit www.woodstockga.gov. During a brief question and answer session, Williams explained why a fire truck accompanies an ambulance on emergency visits. “The biggest reason is because there are more fire trucks than ambulances. The equipment on each vehicle is the same, except a fire truck doesn’t have a stretcher,” Williams said. Because the goal is to get care to the scene as quickly as possible, both vehicles are dispatched. Officials are looking at possible locations for a new fire station in the following areas: Ridgewalk Parkway, Long Drive near BJs Wholesale Club off Highway 92, and Stone Bridge in Towne Lake. “We are closer to locations on Long Drive and Ridgewalk Parkway,” Williams said. To get more information for visits to your HOA or safety in the workplace for your business, call Williams at 770-592-6000 ext. 1845 or email gwilliams@woodstockga.gov.

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Pfaff and Crutchfield families enjoy the parade.

Everyone Loves a Parade PHOTOS BY REBEKAH GREGG

The streets in downtown Woodstock were filled with a patriotic crowd celebrating Independence Day - more than 650 runners joined the Woodstock Freedom Run, 10,000 gathered to watch the parade and 5,000 attended the festival. An even greater number turned out for the fireworks display - 30,000. Photographer Rebekah Gregg captured these images from the parade, which had 93 entries. Forty-two vendors took part in the festival. Officials were happy with the participation throughout the day, since the holiday fell mid-week.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Michael, Stephanie and baby Evelyn Shaffer

The festive Ba and Gist families are decked out for the holiday.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

Backpacks Without Back Pain BY AMBER YORK, DC

It’s back to school time and we’re all familiar with that child who gets off the bus, hunched forward, head down and holding onto the backpack straps as if his or her life depended on it. School backpacks are getting heavier and heavier, filled with textbooks, binders, lunch boxes, and musical instruments. Often the safe carrying weight is exceeded and this can potentially cause back and shoulder pain. While doing your back to school shopping this year, here are a few tips from the American Chiropractic Association to help you find the perfect backpack and keep your child pain free.

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Choose the Proper Bag. Your child’s backpack should have two, 2-inch wide, padded and adjustable shoulder straps. Individual compartments are important. They help distribute the weight of the bag and position the contents so pointy or bulky objects don’t rest on your child’s back. When it comes to the perfect bag, bigger is not always better. Make sure you find a backpack that is appropriate for your child’s size. The larger the backpack the more likely it will be filled with unnecessary items.

Adjust to the Proper Position. One of the most important things to remember is that your child’s backpack should never exceed 5 percent to 10 percent of his or her body weight. If your child weighs 50 pounds that means the backpack should weigh no more than 5 pounds. To wear the backpack properly, both shoulder straps should be used to avoid shifting weight to one side of the body. The straps should provide a snug fit, keeping the bag close to your child’s body. Ill fitting straps can cause spinal misalignment and pain. The bag should not hang more than 4 inches below the waistline. As with a bag that is too heavy or has loose straps, a low hanging bag will place stress on the shoulders; causing the child to lean forward while they are walking. When worn properly and not overloaded, a backpack can be a great tool for getting to and from school. Misuse, however, can lead to muscle spasm, shoulder, neck and even lower back pain. If you feel your child’s backpack is too heavy talk to his or her teacher and ask about leaving heavier items at school. Don’t let a backpack become a source of pain for you or your child this school year.

Start Enjoying All The Exclusive Benefits of Credit Union Membership! • Wide Range of Account Solutions • Convenient Account Access • Low Loan Rates • Friendly, Knowledgeable Staﬀ • Locally Made Lending & Operating Decisions

Towne Lake 3048 Eagle Dr.

Canton 140 Riverstone Pkwy.

Learn More At: www.CUofGA.org | 678-486-1111

#DoYouCU Dr. Amber York is a Life University graduate specializing in low force adjusting at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic. TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Caring for the Caregiver is Essential BY SHELLEY WINTER

Are you caring for a spouse or parent who has an illness or cognitive impairment? As a caregiver, you must take care of yourself to properly take care of others. Caring for a loved one can be demanding on your health and well-being. Being a caregiver and not taking time for yourself can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack and depression, among other issues. Due to their responsibilities, caregivers may experience sleep deprivation, poor eating habits or the lack of regular exercise. Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, frustrated, resentful and forgetful are just a few warning signs of caregiver burnout.

Here are some ways to take care of yourself, so you can take care of someone else:

1. 2. 3. 4.

Have a friend or family member stay with your loved one while you do something special for yourself. If these resources are not available, hire someone for just a few hours a day.

5. 6. 7.

Exercise regularly, such as walking; just 10-15 minutes a day can do wonders for the mind, body and spirit.

Accept help when someone offers. Don’t tell them you are “fine.” Be prepared with two or three things that someone can help you with, such as running an errand. Join a support group. A support group can provide validation and encouragement, as well as strategies for difficult situations. People in support groups understand what you may be going through, and you will discover that you are not alone. If you can't leave the house, online groups may be available. You may not only get help, but you may also be able to help others. Taking care of yourself first may be important, but it is often difficult and forgotten. If you know someone who is taking care of a loved one, reach out to see if they need help. Caregivers end up exhausted, depressed and isolated due to their responsibilities. It is not selfish to take care of yourself – it’s necessary!

Meditating, praying or practicing yoga for just 5 minutes can give you a recharge. Get plenty of rest. You may need to hire someone for nighttime care so you can get some much-needed sleep.

Eat well-balanced meals. The right food can give you the energy you need to provide the best care for your loved one.

Shelley Winter, community relations director at Oaks at Towne Lake, has worked in assisted living/memory care communities since 2008. 770-592-2195. shelley@oaksseniorliving.com.

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. 38

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

• 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.

How Do Braces Move Teeth? BY DRS. ANDY AND AMBRE KRAGOR

You may have seen a family member or friend with braces on their teeth, but you might not know exactly how braces can straighten teeth. Without going into too many scientific details, here’s a summary of how these little brackets actually can move your teeth and transform your smile. • Braces apply a light, optimal force and continuous pressure over time, to slowly move teeth in a specific direction. The bone that harbors the teeth changes shape as the pressure is applied (on one side, bone is resorbed, on the other side, bone is deposited). This is called bone remodeling. There is a limit to how much pressure, and how quickly, you can do this process while keeping all movements stable and healthy. • Braces require three components: brackets or bands, wire, and ties (or self-ligation built into the bracket). If any of these things are missing, the teeth cannot move based on the force of braces alone. • Brackets are like handles; they are bonded to the tooth with a special bonding agent. The wires are connected to the brackets, and act like tracks to guide the movement of the teeth. The colored ties (or self-ligation procedures) attach the wire to the bracket to hold everything in place. These things are what help guide your teeth’s movement. • Adjustments are made in the office by your orthodontic team approximately every four to eight weeks, to allow the wire

to be reactivated. Teeth also need this component in order for them to move orthodontically — which is why your orthodontist does not want you to miss these valuable appointments. Missing appointments can make the time you are in braces longer than necessary. • Healthy periodontal ligaments and gums also are essential for orthodontic tooth movement. Orthodontic patients should have cleanings with their dentist or pediatric dental specialist at least two times a year, and we often recommend four times a year for patients in braces. This ensures that the gums that hold the teeth in place remain strong and healthy. During orthodontic treatment, the teeth are aligned, so any positional discrepancies or rotations are corrected. The biological process behind orthodontic tooth movement is affected by the health of the following: bones, gingiva and patient. It is important also to discuss with your orthodontist any medical concerns you may have, and how they might play a role in how your teeth move.

Dr. Ambre Kragor, and her husband Andy, are orthodontists who practice in the Towne Lake/Woodstock area. 770-485-8827. www.KragorOrtho.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

ALL-NEW

BUNKERS

WHITE SAND BEACHES We’ve improved our course at Eagle Watch Golf Club so you can improve your game! Join us for our Membership Open House on Sunday, August 19 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Membership at Eagle Watch offers: • Active golf community with competitive leagues for everyone • Weekly Family Night Dining, Prime Rib Thursdays, Friday Night Out, Sunday Brunch and more! • Savory cuisine offered in a relaxed yet upscale environment • Golf programing and other social activities just for kids • Full access to Bentwater Golf Club

Complimentary golf will be available after 5 p.m. Reservations not required but greatly appreciated.

Plus, enjoy 50% off dining at both Eagle Watch and Bentwater and access to 25 Atlanta-area clubs and 300 clubs when you travel.*

FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION, CONTACT:

404.960.9225 | gary.weller@clubcorp.com

*Offer expires 08/31/18 and may not be combined with any other promotion or discount. Membership is contingent on successful completion of Club’s enrollment process. Membership offer may vary depending on category and classification of membership selected and may require a loyalty agreement. The O.N.E. program and corresponding benefit are subject to certain restrictions and exclusions. Alcohol, service charges and applicable taxes are excluded. Participating clubs subject to change. Benefits are subject to the benefit terms and conditions, which may be found on clubcorpnetwork.com. All offers are subject to availability. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Call for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 41333 0618 EA

2018-41333-EW_TownLaker-August-AD.indd 1

TOWNELAKER | August 2018 41 7/5/18 4:01 PM

TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING CUISINE

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS RESERV.

Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway 770-693-4680

Mexican

open

full bar

Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com

American

open

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

open

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net

Homestyle Cooking

closed

GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com

Barbeque

$-$$

open

Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740

American

open

full bar

yes

Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open full bar Brunch

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Corner Bistro, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-1202, cornerbistrotl.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616

Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com

Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com

Mexican

open

full bar

LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway Steakhouse no $ $$ open full bar 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com Maple Street Biscuit Co., 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy #160 678-903-2161, maplestreetbiscuits.com

no call ahead seating

Southern

closed

Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com

Pizza/Pasta

$-$$

open

beer/wine

NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Chinese

$-$$

open

Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com Song’s Garden, 4451 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com

Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Drive American Sunday $ $$ open full bar no 770-592-9969 Brunch see ad on pg 15 The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com

Asian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

WOW Pho & Grill, 6422 Bells Ferry Rd Vietnamese no $-$$ $-$$ open 678-383-6099, wowpho.com see ad on pg 3

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

coming soon

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

RESTAURANT

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

Expert Surgical Care for the Cherokee Community

Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates is a full-service practice specializing in general surgery. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Grant Wolfe, uses the latest minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques to treat the full spectrum of abdominal, thyroid, and soft tissue disorders. Grant Wolfe, M.D.

Treatments offered for: • Hernias

• Skin and soft tissue lesions

• Gallstones and gallbladder problems

• Thyroid and parathyroid disease

• Breast masses and cancer

• Diverticulitis and colon cancer

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernias

• Stomach, adrenal gland, pancreas and spleen disorders

(770) 924-9656 • ncsurgicalassociates.com 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 412, Woodstock, GA 30189 TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Don't Touch That Phone!

A reminder about the new Georgia Hands-Free Law. BY JAMES IMBRIALE ESQ.

It’s been a month now since the new Georgia law directed at texting and driving went into effect. It may be time for a refresher on the details of the Hands-Free Georgia Act, which makes it illegal to touch your phone while driving. Yes, you read that correctly. If you touch your phone to change a song, answer a call or pick up your phone to put it to your ear, you could face a hefty fine in Georgia. • Drivers can continue to use their cellphones if they use a speakerphone, an earpiece, wireless headphones, or if the phone is connected to the vehicle via Bluetooth. If you can answer calls hands-free, you are still permitted to talk on the phone, as long as you don't touch your cellphone in the process. • Drivers cannot send or read text messages, unless they use a voice system that converts spoken language into a written text. • Drivers cannot watch videos while operating a motor vehicle, though an exception is made for drivers looking at a GPS navigation system. • Drivers are not permitted to change songs or tinker with music streaming apps while driving.

According to WSB-TV, the stricter laws are a response to the increase in traffic accidents and fender benders in Georgia in recent years. WSB-TV reports that 15 states already have passed these stricter distracted-driving laws. Lawmakers and experts believe that the increase in accidents is due largely to the heavier use of smartphones on the road. Distracted driving due to cellphone use is a cultural epidemic. Every year, more than 3,000 people die, and another 391,000 people are injured, due to distracted driving. These numbers have been increasing in recent years as more people buy and own smartphones. The fines for breaking the law are $50 for a first-time violation, $100 for a second, and $150 for a third violation. Lawmakers hope that the zero-tolerance law will make it easier for officers to enforce texting and driving violations. I’m of the opinion that the fines should be even higher. There have been too many cases of loss of life because a driver was distracted by a cellphone. The passage of stricter distracted-driving laws also protects victims of car accidents. If you're hurt due to a distracted driver, now you only need to show that a driver was touching his or her phone to show that he or she was breaking the law. This can make it easier for victims to seek damages for lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical bills. If you have been hurt due to a distracted driver, you have rights.

• The only time a driver is permitted to pick up the phone to make a call is in the event of an emergency. • Drivers can look at their devices and touch their cellphones if they are legally parked. However, stop signs and red lights don't count, so put down your phone and pre-program your music or GPS, before you leave home.

James Imbriale is a personal injury attorney at Hartman-Imbriale LLP. He has strictly practiced personal injury law for 27 years, and he works and lives in Towne Lake. 678-445-7423.

LEAVE THE WORRIES BEHIND. LIVE THE LIFE. The Arbor at BridgeMill offers an active, carefree lifestyle filled with comfortable living space, great amenities—and exactly the level of care and support needed. Call (770) 284-4864 today to ask about our outstanding move-in incentives!

ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE NOW AVAILABLE 700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton, GA 30114 | ArborBridgeMill.com 44

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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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. TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Personal Attention, Fast Service

at the Core of Family-Owned Business

f it’s true that a picture is worth a thousand words, the photo stream on Towne Plumber’s Instagram account tells a lengthy story. It’s one of a dedicated, family-owned business that is working actively to make life easier for customers, and to benefit community schools and sports leagues. Shane Mahaffey’s intense personal desire to serve customers actually led to a big job change. At one point, he worked for a large company, but

wasn’t feeling fulfilled there. He and wife Callie opened Towne Plumber in February 2017. “Most days, I had a very full schedule, with multiple appointments back to back, and it was a time crunch to complete each job. Now that I own this smaller company, we make sure to schedule our calls accordingly. We don’t rush through our work, and we make sure it’s done correctly the first time,” Mahaffey said. “Towne Plumber enables me to treat my customers exactly how I would want a local company to treat me.”

SERVICES • Water heater repair and installation. • Drain repair. • Toilet repair and installation. • Sewer repair. Mahaffey and son Parker at Hobgood Park. 48

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

• Kitchen sink installation. • Slab leak detection. • Garbage disposal repair and replacement.

Master Plumber Mahaffey, with 15 years experience, and Nick Wells, with 10 years on the job, offer a variety of services that range from drain repair to slab leak detection. “Sometimes, plumbing jobs do seem very simple, but, even something that seems easy, like swapping out a toilet or installing a new faucet, can go wrong for someone who hasn’t done it before,” Mahaffey said. “Water damage is something no one wants to have to deal with. However, swapping out parts in toilets, and replacing kitchen sink faucets, are tasks that we do daily, so our customers can rest assured that they won’t have to give those honey-do list projects a second thought.” Towne Plumber is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, email, Google chat, Facebook message … any method that connects the plumber and the client in the most efficient manner. No project is too big or small … or odd. Shane has made some unusual finds when unclogging toilets: dozens of toys, a screwdriver and a pair of dentures, to name a few. Mahaffey takes a fresh approach to an old industry with strategic scheduling to deliver the fastest service possible, staying in constant contact, and making it easy to

connect with a licensed plumber. Once every couple of months, Shane and Callie sit down and, with an open mind, evaluate the company’s strategies, review what is and isn’t working, and develop new ideas. Callie is the company’s office manager and marketing director. The couple has four children: a daughter, Lily, and three boys — Parker, Easten and Nolan. When Shane and Callie aren’t running their business, you can find them either on the lacrosse field watching their daughter play or at the baseball park, where the older boys play and Shane assists with coaching. “Our family moved to Towne Lake nearly four years ago,” Callie said. “We had actually never heard of this area, but we instantly fell in love with our children’s schools, Hobgood baseball park, the local restaurants and our neighborhood. We couldn’t have picked a better location to open a business, or a better pool of welcoming customers.”

Sponsored Content

Towne Plumber 641 Wedgewood Drive Woodstock, GA 30189

770-257-7503

www.towneplumber.com

Mahaffey family, Shane and Callie with daughter Lily and sons Parker, Easten and Nolan.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

The Evolution of Man - Once Again yesterday, particularly those from the 1920s to the 1950s. These old-timey barber shops are filled with throwback One thing is for sure … male grooming is in. details like the aroma of sweet tobacco and aged leather, Think back 10 years, there wasn’t much of a dialogue about hot lather shaves, head, neck and shoulder massages, and men’s grooming − yet. Guys weren’t comfortable discussing shoe shines. Even though these shops have resurfaced due skincare. However, it wasn’t long before metrosexual men to the surge in male grooming, there's a definite sense of became the “in” thing and their style was manliness and masculinity. made mainstream by celebrities, actors and While men still have quite a lot to learn Men’s beauty sports greats such as Ryan Seacrest, David about the ins and outs of beauty, kudos rituals and male Beckham and Brad Pitt. Grooming habits for to my fellow men for finally evolving and men graduated from showering and shaving, style have evolved making more of an effort to look their to waxing, full body moisturizers, proper skin absolute best; all while still retaining all the during the years care and color coordinating clothing. qualities that come with being a man. The evolution of men spending on beauty Men’s beauty rituals and male style have and will continue. products is not a fad. It is here to stay. evolved during the years and will continue. As social stigmas around men’s grooming It's an endless process. Embrace being a continue to break down, more and more men are paying modern man. Don’t be afraid to take fashion risks. Don’t be attention and are spending the money to look and feel intimidated about using hair conditioner for men or face good, on the inside and out. They are embracing being a scrub for men. Stop by your local men’s grooming salon for a modern man. fresh new style and a hot lather shave. You’ll look your best, In fact, male grooming is experiencing meteoric growth, feel awesome and be on the cutting edge of manliness. generating an estimated $21 billion last year alone. And it’s not just the new school of men’s beauty rituals that are currently in fashion. Men’s barber shops and high-end male grooming salons have made a come back, and they are better Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/educator, than ever. celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and Many of these new grooming spots have nostalgic MTV video music awards. atmospheres. They take us back to the barbershops of BY TIM TIMMONS

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Scarecrows Return With a Few Changes BY STACY BROWN

Planning for one of downtown Woodstockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite seasonal events is underway â&#x2C6;&#x2019; the Scarecrow Invasion. During October, just in time for Halloween, dozens of scarecrows line the streets of downtown Woodstock. Individuals, nonprofits and businesses have the opportunity to be a part of the annual invasion and showcase their creative skills. The proceeds from the Scarecrow Invasion are donated to GROW (Green Reaps Opportunity for Woodstock), the design committee for Main Street Woodstock. It creates and implements design initiatives for the downtown community, such as landscaping and holiday decor along Main Street. Proceeds from past years of the Scarecrow Invasion were used to purchase art benches that can be seen located around downtown. Registration for the invasion begins 10 a.m. Sept. 4, at the Woodstock Visitors Center, 8588 Main St., Woodstock. You can pay the registration fee, pick a spot, and receive the rules and instructions for installation and voting. Last year, the event sold out in less than two days, so enter early. Voting will also take place at the Visitors Center. Drop by during October to vote for your favorite scarecrow. Votes are $1 each, and businesses with scarecrows may set up voting in their store or office. The winner receives bragging rights and a trophy. This year, there are some changes to the event. Locations, display guidelines and pricing have been updated to ensure the Scarecrow Invasion remains a fun, vibrant event. Due to streetscape improvements, there will no longer be scarecrow displays along Arnold Mill Road. There will be spaces added to the area around Market and Elm streets, to allow for as many businesses and individuals as possible the opportunity to participate. Spaces that were added on Chambers Street last year will be available again, for pedestrians and motorists to enjoy. 52

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Structures, such as buildings, photo booths, etc. are no longer permitted. Unfortunately, many of the structures from last year sustained wind and weather damage, requiring additional monitoring from staff and volunteers. Also, hay bales and natural pumpkins are prohibited to avoid rot and decay. New pricing is in place for this year, based on location. For businesses, spaces with the most visibility, specifically those on Main Street, are $100 with all other locations $60. Spots for nonprofits and individuals are $40, regardless of location.

Last year, downtown Woodstock was full of creative scarecrows, and we want this event to be bigger and better this year, making our city the destination for Halloween fun. For additional information, contact Stacy Brown, marketing manager, Woodstock Office of Economic Development. 678-217-2386. sbrown@ woodstockga.gov.

Stacy Brown is the marketing and tourism coordinator for the City of Woodstock. She can be reached at sbrown@ woodstockga.gov.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

Towne Lake Business Association With the sun and fun of the summer season in full swing, we find that August brings us back to busy school and work schedules. The Towne Lake Business Association is here to support you. We offer workshops and tools to help grow you and your business, as you manage the many responsibilities of home and work life. Thank you again to everyone that made this year’s fundraiser such a success with a record nine scholarships awarded. Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Christian Brothers Automotive. We would like to invite you to this month’s luncheon, guests are welcome! PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT LUNCH-N-LEARN

WHEN: WHERE: COST: SPEAKER: TOPIC:

Tuesday August 21, 12:15-2 p.m. The Tavern at Towne Lake Hills E. $14 (includes lunch) Jeff Packer – Entrepreneur, Adjunct Instructor with Emory University and former ‘Business Startup’ teacher at Kennesaw State University Failing Forward: How to rebound from business setbacks

Thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake dollars in Cherokee” www.tlba.org 54

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

SPOTLIGHT The Towne Lake Business Association (TLBA) has been a tremendous resource for local business owners for more than 15 years. On the third Tuesday of every month, the TLBA hosts an informative Lunch and Learn at the Tavern at Towne Lake Hills. Topics include: time management, marketing, mastering social media and maximizing your networking opportunities, just to name a few. Small-business owners must wear many hats to keep their businesses running smoothly and effectively. The focus of the TLBA is to encourage small-business owners to share ideas, function as a unified group, and provide moral support for one another. The TLBA also supports local students with its annual scholarship program. This year, more than $5,000 in scholarships were awarded to students from Etowah, Woodstock and River Ridge high schools. These scholarships are funded by the TLBA annual golf tournament. For more information, please go to www.TLBA.org. Annual membership dues are only $75.

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Around & About AUGUST

FARMERS MARKETS

UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County will present

Woodstock Farm Fresh Market, 8:30 a.m.-noon, every Saturday through October. Market Street, downtown Woodstock. For more information, call 770-924-0406 or email Kyle Bennett at kbennett@woodstockga.gov.

seminar at 10 a.m. at Hickory Flat Library, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, and R.T. Jones Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Learn to extend your garden season to enjoy fresh vegetables into the holidays. To register, call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.

Canton Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m, every Saturday through

“Fall in the Vegetable Garden”

BridgePointe Church is hosting a parenting series called “I Need New Kids” that begins at 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. Explore what grace-based parenting looks like and enjoy a free Kona Ice treat and free parenting resources for attending. The event will be held at BridgePointe Church, 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock. For more information, visit www.INeedNewKids.com. performs at 11 Everclear the 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.

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 Chickfil-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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

October. Located in Cannon Park, downtown Canton, rain or shine.

Farmers Market at River Church, 2-6 p.m, Tuesdays through October. 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, 30114. 770-485-1975. Waleska Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursdays through Nov. 1. Heritage Fellowship Baptist Church, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 404-805-7468.

Cross Babysitting, 12 Red noon-5 p.m. Cherokee County

Aquatic Center Wet Room Class No. 2. For youth (ages 11-15) who are planning to baby-sit with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and responsibly give care for children and infants. This training will help participants 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.

Night 17, 31 Parent’s Out, 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.)

Free business seminar for 23 individuals and couples who

want to start a business. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., seminar begins at 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Comfort Suites at 340 Parkway 575. Register at www. eventbrite.com by searching for business seminar in Woodstock.

VOLUNTEER AGING COUNCIL LUNCHEONS The $5 luncheons are fundraisers for programs that help the nonprofit meet the needs of less fortunate seniors and veterans in Cherokee County. Bring a friend, coworker or family member with you and enjoy lunch while supporting the seniors and veterans of Cherokee County. All luncheons are held 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. Dine-in or take out available. RSVP the location, so the chefs have a head count.

Your Mutt, 8:3025 Strut 11:30 a.m. Patriots Park,

1485 Kellogg Creek 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.

Movies in the Park, in Canton’s Brown Park, start at 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.” 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

Aug. 17: Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake, 1962 Eagle Drive, Woodstock Sept. 21: Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton Oct. 19: The Oaks at Towne Lake, 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Nov. 16: Brookdale Neese, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock

COED @ THE CIRCUIT 11 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. www.cherokeega.org. www.facebook.com/cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment

1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC CHK)

First and third Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. First Wednesdays are held at The Circuit, third Wednesdays are held in different Cherokee County cities. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to practice their pitch skills, gain valuable feedback, or belong to a community.

The Lunch Circuit

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second Wednesdays at The Circuit. A monthly exclusive lunch gathering of aspiring and current entrepreneurs to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee entrepreneurs.

Woodstock WordPress Meet-Up

First and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at The Circuit. Local WordPress developers, designers and publishers get together to share knowledge and experience, and to meet other WordPress users in the area.

Creative Problem Solvers Meet-Up

First and third Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m., at The Circuit. Join an innovative, diverse community of creative problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, “want-repreneurs” and innovators dedicated to helping one another work through business challenges.

OTP & Greater Cherokee Tech Pros

Every third Thursday, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at The Circuit. A gathering of local technology professionals.

Women Entrepreneurs Meetup

Every third Friday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Circuit. For aspiring and current female entrepreneurs who want to take action and hold each other accountable for stated goals. NOT a lead exchange or referral networking program. TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Around & About continued from page 57

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.

7 check in. $10 per person, pre-registration

Lewis Park in the Dark Night Hike, 8 p.m.

OCTOBER . Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency hosts an 6 Touch-a-Truck 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.

CHEROKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-345-0400 www.cherokeechamber.com

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 Woodstock 8 38summer 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, 6 p.m. at 11 9/11 The Park at City Center in Woodstock.

Honoring service men and women weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

12 crafting, mocktails and snacks with your

Chalk Couture, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy a night of

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. 770924-7768.

Kayak, 6:30 a.m. Kayak from 15 Sunrise 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.

22 begins at 8 a.m. at Etowah River Park in Express Your SuperPower 5K/10K

Canton. Activities for all ages will be available at the event, designed to raise awareness of breastfeeding and the health of babies and children. Dress as your favorite superhero for a chance to win a prize. www.expressyoursuperpower5k.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Aug. 2, 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.

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.

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 tabletop 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.

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.

Aug. 29

Leadership symposium, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. with four speakers at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University. Includes continental breakfast, lunch and two networking breaks. Register by noon Aug. 28. $50 members, $75 future members.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

@ the Library ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491

Tuesdays

Knit and Crochet at 1 p.m. Let Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn and be prepared to have fun. No prior knowledge is required.

Wednesdays

Crayons and Conversation at 1 p.m. Drop in to de-stress

and get your creative juices flowing. Socialize over a tabletop game (such as Scrabble or MahJongg) or color a picture. Players and colorers of all skill levels are welcome.

Maya Barber, who authored “The Adventures of Mend” with her mother Katie, donated a copy of their book to the Woodstock Public Library during weekly storytime. Below, families at R.T. Jones Memorial Library enjoyed the puppet show “Our Water Story,” produced as a collaboration between the Atlanta Theatre of Puppetry Arts and the Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority. Library patrons may check out a library pass to Atlanta’s Center for Puppetry Arts by using their library card.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Aug. 7

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) Meeting at 6 p.m. Kicking off the 2018-19 TAB year with introductions and program planning for August and September. For more information, contact Mary at 770-479-3090 (Ext. 244).

Aug. 11

Lego Club at 3 p.m. There is a different theme each month. Children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Legos and Duplo blocks provided. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Aug. 13

Maker Monday at 4:30 p.m. Everyone’s a maker. Get creative in the pop-up maker space with self-directed making, tinkering and STEAM activities. For ages 7-12; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Aug. 23

Fall Gardening at 11 a.m. Learn about the new Rose Creek Seed Library, how to extend the life of your garden, and the best vegetables to grow in the fall. Presented by the Cherokee County UGA Extension and the Cherokee County Master Gardeners. Homeschooler’s Book Club at 1:30 p.m. Join a community

of readers who meet once a month to enjoy some lively conversation about literature. This month’s theme is Reader’s Choice. Children should read a book independently or with a caregiver, and share a brief talk about their book with the group. Refreshments provided.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

@ the Library

continued from page 60

WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859

Mondays

Coloring Group at 10 a.m. This coloring group has been meeting every Monday for years; come meet new friends. All materials are provided. For ages 16 and older.

Tuesdays, Fridays

MahJongg Meetup on 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and 1 p.m. on

Fridays. Meet with other people to play American MahJongg, based on the ancient Chinese tile game.

Thursdays

Sit and Stitch at 10 a.m. Be crafty and enjoy the friendship of other creative people.

Aug. 5

Introduction to Acrylic Painting at 3 p.m. This program provides an introduction to painting with acrylics, for anyone interested in starting a new hobby. Materials are provided. Registration is required; call 770-926-5859 to sign up.

Aug. 10

Slime Wars at 4:30 p.m. Make two different kinds of slime

and see which one you like better. You'll get to keep what you make. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required; call 770-926-5859 to sign up.

The Hickory Flat Public Library gets creative with yarn at a recent Woven Self Portrait event.

Aug. 17

Teen Coffee House/Open Mic Night at 6:30 p.m. Tweens and teens grades 6-12 are invited to join the Teen Advisory Board and showcase their talents. Coffee and refreshments provided. Registration is required and opens Aug. 3; call 770-479-3090 (Ext. 244) to sign up.

Inklings Writers Critique Group at 11 a.m. Love to write, but

need some feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas and feedback are invited to attend.

Art Walk at 6:30 p.m. All ages are invited to display their art and showcase their talents during the Teen Coffee House/ Open Mic Night. Registration is required and opens Aug. 3; call 770-479-3090 (Ext. 244) to sign up.

Aug. 13

Aug. 19

Aug. 11, 25

Toddler STEAM: Robots at 10:30 a.m. Exploring with Bee

Bots. Try to take them through a maze or just learn about programming. There are so many things they can do. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Master Early Literacy A new early literacy tool is available for check-out at all Sequoyah Regional Library System locations. Using their library card, visitors may borrow a Starling Kit, which contains a word counter that measures the number of words their child hears. When paired with the Starling smartphone app, the word counter offers a personalized experience for parents to set reading and word goals with their child. Sequoyah is the first public library system in Georgia circulating the Starling Kits.

creative projects. Registration is required and opens Aug. 5; call 770-926-5859 to sign up.

Aug. 21

Book Discussion Group meets at noon. Enjoy coffee,

conversation and a book discussion with new friends. This month’s selection is “South of Broad” by Pat Conroy. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.

Aug. 24

Crafternoon at 4:30 p.m. Make a yarn bookmark. Materials are provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY Canyons American no $ $ open 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsresh.com

SPIRITS RESERV. Beer/Wine no

Century House Tavern Modern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinoodstock.com see ad on Inside front

$$$

open

Full bar

8 persons +

open

Beer/Wine

Fire Stone Wood-fired 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 see ad on pg 20 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Sat./Sun. Brunch 10:30-3

$$$

open

Full bar

$-$$

open

Full bar

yes

open

Full bar

yes

open

Full bar

Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $ 9550 Main St. Brunch 678-498-8243 11-1:30 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com

J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no 315 Chambers St., 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer 150 Towne Lake Parkway Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios Southern no $-$$ $$-$$$$ open Full bar 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com Partners II Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga

$$-$$$

open

Beer/Wine

Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 Brunch puretaqueria.com/woodstock 11-3

open

Full bar

6 persons+

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

Sunday Brunch 10:30-3:30

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-3

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

Wine bar Tapas

Salt Factory Pub Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225

Rootstock and Vine 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com

Pizza

Weekends only

Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com

American

open

Full bar

English Tea room

closed

yes

Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

Sunday Brunch 10-2

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 64

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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. 66

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Back-to-School Bash PHOTOS FROM HAYLEY ROBERSON AND ANGELICA MILLEN

Give a Kid a Chance - Cherokee hosted the 13th annual event on July 14 at Hillside United Methodist in Woodstock and First Baptist Church Canton. 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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

SCHOOL & SPORTS

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS EHS Student Recognized as Top Scholar

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. 3.

Counselor’s Dedication Recognized With Award Donna Ratliff, of E.T. Booth Middle School, has been named the Etowah Innovation Zone 2018 Counselor of the Year. The 25-year school counselor founded the Friends Club program in the Cherokee County School District in 1995, with two special education teachers. The peer-helper program has led thousands of special-needs children to experience friendships they may never have otherwise enjoyed, and it also has expanded the hearts of the regular education participants who befriended them. Her dedication to this program and others, such as the Rainbows Grief and Loss program she implemented across the Eagle Mountain campus of schools, led to her selection as 2018 counselor of the year. It is the second time for Ratliff, who has a master’s and specialist degrees in counseling, to achieve this honor. She was also recognized with the award in 2011. “Bringing programs that enable students to meet their full potential in a variety of ways is what I find exciting about my job. This, to me, is what counseling is all about – helping students deal with today as they grow for tomorrow,” Ratliff said. Donna Ratliff 70

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) recently selected Etowah High School student Emily D. Sweat to become a member of the esteemed organization. The society recognizes top scholars who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, scholarship and community commitment. The announcement was made by NSHSS founder and chairman Claes Nobel, senior member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes. "On behalf of NSHSS, I am honored to recognize the hard work, sacrifice and commitment that Emily has demonstrated to achieve this exceptional level of academic excellence," Nobel said. "Emily is now a member of a unique community of scholars - a community that represents our very best hope for the future." NSHSS members automatically become lifetime members at the time of their initial membership. At each step along the way - from high school to college to career - NSHSS connects outstanding young scholars with the resources they need to develop their strengths and pursue their passions. For more information about NSHSS visit www.nshss.org.

Emily D. Sweat

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 weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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) TOWNELAKER | August 2018

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Towne Lake Runner Wins State Championship Vince Mwangi, a 14-year-old rising freshman at Etowah High School, is the USA Track and Field (USATF) regional and state champion in his age group in the 3,000 meters. He also placed in the 1,500 meters. He took first place at the USATF Georgia Association Junior Olympic track and field championships held in June at Carrollton, Ga., with a time of 10:07.08. He won the bronze medal in the 1,500 meters. A couple of weeks later, at the USATF Region 4 Junior Olympic track and field championships held in Rome, Ga., he came in first again in the 3,000 meters, improving his time to 9:58.31. He placed fourth in the 1,500 meters. Mwangi is a member of the Etowah Youth Track Club and will be running this fall for the Etowah High School cross country team. He plays soccer for the U.S. Soccer Development Academy in Atlanta and holds a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. In addition to being a talented athlete, Mwangi excels in the classroom. He has attended Ambassador Leadership Training programs at Harvard University in Boston, and he is currently taking some coding classes to be able to code and work with robotics. Mwangi hopes to one day help in the design of prosthetic limbs and robots. He has attended the Georgia Tech Science Kids Clubs since age 5. In his scarce free time, he likes to play the piano and guitar. Mwangi’s dad told us, “It’s easy to spot Vince running the Towne Lake sidewalks in his favorite neon green shirt.” If you see him, give him a wave of encouragement. “He’ll be happy to wave back,” his dad said.

Vince Mwangi

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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM

Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, ÂŠ OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Visit our website for more information on these or other trail projects. www.greenprintsalliance.org

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park.

Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 76

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018

FAITH

Something Worth Dying For BY JOHN HARRIS

Life can be hard. Isn’t that what we all say? But, worse than life being hard is when your life has no real sense of purpose. Purpose comes from vision. Do you have a vision, purpose or direction? I believe you can find one, but it’s only after finding a vision that life can have significance. Martin Luther King Jr. said it best, “Life isn’t worth living until you have found something worth dying for.” What would you be willing to die for? That’s not exactly what King was referring to, but what he was asking is, what would you be willing to give your every breath for? No matter the consequence or the pain, what would you put all your energy into? In the Bible, a man named Paul had something worth dying for. God had given him the task of taking the gospel to the world. He knew he had to go to Rome, because it was the most powerful city in the world at that time. Many friends tried to warn him of the dangers, and even the Lord had told him to expect many trials and persecutions there. But Paul said, “I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course…” (Acts 20:24, HCSB)

Yes, Paul went to Rome, and yes, he eventually lost his life for his purpose, but he did not live in vain nor did he die in vain. He gave the greatest thing he had to fulfill the greatest task anyone has ever been given - sharing the gospel. The gospel is just the simple truth that God came to pay the penalty for man’s sin, and, that by trusting in this and repenting of our sins, we can be saved! That’s the message that Paul gave his life for. As followers of Christ, we have been given the greatest of life purposes. We get to not only follow Christ, but we have the opportunity to lead others to him. There is no one we can’t help, and no one that cannot be reached. If God can use Paul, he can use you. God can give you purpose for your life.

John Harris is the lead pastor at New Victoria Baptist Church, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. He and his wife have a daughter and two sons. johnharris@newvicbaptist.org.

Marriage Moments

An Inspirational Commitment BY BILL RATLIFF

Don and Nancy were a typical young couple; starry-eyed and wanting to live happily ever after. They had supportive families, high intelligence and great spiritual depth. Yet, “happily ever after” was not so happy for them. While on a four month honeymoon cruise, she got pregnant and experienced a miscarriage. They decided to settle in an Asian culture on the other side of the world. As they tried to learn the language in their new setting, loneliness blanketed them like a cloud. After a few years, they had another child, a boy. Sadly, he died at 8 months old. A few years later, Nancy developed a severe liver ailment, and returned to the United States for treatment. After two and a half years, she reunited with her husband. Don was placed in prison, and Nancy became a prisoner in her own home. Not long after that, Nancy delivered another child, a daughter, while Don was still in prison. While in prison, Don was tortured; he hung upside down for long periods of time. In the meantime, Nancy contracted smallpox, but she recovered in time to reunite with her husband and move to a new town. In less than a year, Nancy was again stricken ill, this time with spinal meningitis. She died at the age of 36. Don was crippled with grief and depression over the loss of his wife, and lost his 2-year-old daughter, as well. 78

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Don and Nancy are better known as Adoniram and Ann Judson, who were some of the first missionaries, in the 19th century, from the U.S. to go to a foreign land (Burma). Adoniram and Ann shared the good news of Christ, and helped the people of Burma understand it. Through Adoniram’s translation of the Bible into Burmese, he provided the impetus to establish 53 churches in Burma. I am inspired by their commitment to God, and to each other. In James, Chapter 1, we are told to “consider it all joy when you encounter various trials.” Ann wrote in her diary that “God is the same when he afflicts us, as when he is merciful — he is always worthy of our trust and confidence.”

Date Your Mate In the spirit of the Judsons, do something together to help and encourage someone you do not know. Enjoy the process of serving others together.

Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at www.billratliffcatalyst.com.

Above, a First Priority gathering at Woodstock. 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.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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/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.

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.

Meeting: Aug. 31 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 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 Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

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 TOWNELAKER | August 2018

A Paw-fect Day in the Park PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PAINT-N-PAWS

On a recent Saturday at Woofstock Park, dogs and their owners enjoyed creating keepsake artwork together. The event, known as Paint-N-Paws, was sponsored by Woodstock Parks and Recreation and ABC Easel. The next Paint-N-Paws is 8:30-11:30 a.m. Aug. 25 at Patriots Park, 1485 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Supplies are provided, including: non-toxic paint, stencils, stamps, colored pencils, oil pastels, a variety of design tools and a mat board. Cost is $10 per pet, and pre-registration is encouraged. For more information, contact abceasel@gmail.com or 678-478-3002.

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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. 84

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Every Picture Tells A Story Headshots

404.384.2794 404.200.0881

www.jkingimages.com

@ jkingimages

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the June competition "Macro!"

Digital Projection:

1st Martin Longstaff "Daffy"

2nd Rick Sapp "Lizard on a Leaf"

3rd Dayle Geroski "Dahlia #7"

HM Jim Kirk "Circle V"

HM Mike Voeltner "Heart of the Sunflower"

Color Prints:

1st Eillene Kirk "Butterfly on Zinnia" 86

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

2nd Mike Voeltner "Emerging Sunflower"

3rd Karen Beedle

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.

Monochromatic:

1st Martin Longstaff "Snail Ballet"

3rd Michael Brubaker "Iris"

"Golden Leaf"

2nd Eillene Kirk "Cuttings"

HM Rick Sapp "A Real Dollar"

HM David Ferguson "Wingswept"

HM David Ferguson "Captain"

HM Rick Sapp "Pace Setter" TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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CALL/TEXT (770) 594-9969 TOWNELAKER | August 2018

REFERENCE

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

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

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.

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

Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com.

Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.

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

Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org

Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560.

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com.

CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee 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. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org.

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. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com.

Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org.

Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com.

Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services.

Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org.

Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com.

MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org.

Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Thursdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-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. 770-793-7818. Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-7896158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/.

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366.

Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org.

Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412.

Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop.

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

Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com.

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514.

Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com.

Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net.

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com.

South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522.

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.

Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336.

Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat.

Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org.

Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org.

Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net.

Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. 770-906-2958.

Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com.

Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com.

Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com.

Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org.

Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS

Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 770-345-3489. www.cherokeedemocrats.com.

William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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 Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Advertisers

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

August 2018

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.AnimalAtlanta.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Merry Mac Dog Training 770-579-3865 www.MerryMacDogTraining.com

Towne Lake Pet Care 404-907-9778

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

Kathleen McGillick 770-591-5956 www.KathleenMcGillick.com

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

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

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY SALON & SPA

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 41 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.PapasPantry.org

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

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

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

Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900 www.ccrguys.com

DENTAL

Canton Dental Town 770-622-1515 www.dentaltownsmiles.com

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

Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com

Salon Gloss and Spa 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz

Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

Woodstock Dentistry 55 678-203-2294 www.WoodstockDentistryOffice.com

Furtah Preparatory School 678-574-6488 www.furtahprep.org

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

EDUCATION

COMPUTERS

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com

Downtown Buzz 80 770-592-6056 www.mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz

1922 Men's Grooming Salon 678-4483-8900

CHIROPRACTIC

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com

Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

1, 26

Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com HEALTH & FITNESS R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

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

Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.BudgetBlinds.com/Woodstock

5 73

Casey's Painting 678-445-9661 www.caseyspainting.com

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

ClearView window cleaning & pressure washing 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

PHOTOGRAPHY J. King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.jkingimages.com

Rebekah Gregg Photography 59 678-637-7518 www.rebekahgreggphotography.com PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Atlanta North Dermatology & Skin Care 770-516-5199 www.atlantanorthdermatology.com

Diaz Painting & Home Improvement 678-920-7880

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.DrFixitPHD.com

Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 45 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com 31

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

GYN Surgical Specialists 404-303-3157 www.GYNSurgicalSpecialists.com

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.MrJunk1.com

Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-926-9229 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com

Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com

Northside Hospital Cherokee 11 www.Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart

Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

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

Cover, 48, 49

LANDSCAPING & PEST CONTROL Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346

Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.LandscapeMattersInc.com

Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

Perimeter North Family Medicine 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 28 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Rebound Physical Therapy 678-445-9799 www.ReboundPTClinic.com

WellStar & Mayo Clinic 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org/mayo

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES 7

OPTOMETRIST Eyes on Towne Lake 770-702-5996 www.eyesontownelake.com

Thomas Eye Group 770-928-4544 www.thomaseye.com

Atlanta Communities, Tara Daigle 404-925-6351 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Wahl Team, The 63 O: 770-517-2150 Cell: 404-428-4262 www.wahlteam.com Broadus Realty 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-710-9134 www.SolielLaurelCanyon.com

Windsong Properties, Grace 770-516-3678 www.WindsongLife.com

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT Basements & Backyards 678-726-8777 www.BasementsandBackyards.com

Cruise Planners, Kathy Faisal 678-445-5235

Eagle Watch Golf Club 404-960-9225 gary.weller@clubcorp.com

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

RESTAURANTS/FOOD Copper Coin Coffee Inside front 770-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 www.FireStoneRestaurants.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910 smallcakeswoodstock.myshopify.com Tavern at Towne Lake 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com WOW Pho & Grill 678-383-6099 www.wowpho.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Flag Company, The 770-974-0507 www.Flagco.com

Queen B’s Boutique 770-380-6794 www.QueenBsWoodstock.com

SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Arbor at BridgeMill, The 770-285-1475 www.ArborBridgeMill.com

Lodge at BridgeMill, The 770-479-4639 www.TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com

Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

TOWNELAKER | August 2018

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.

Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Carla Caldwell, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.

At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

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TOWNELAKER | August 2018