TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Contents August 2019
48 & 49 On the Cover
Ribley Chiropractic owners Kristin and Dan Ribley Photo by J. King Images
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Features
In Every Issue
20 Cherokee Gives A ______
4 8 14 22 36 40 58 76 78 82 84 86 90 92 94
Community embraces charity events to help cancer patient.
28 Summer Splash
For Cherokee families, swim league means fun, friendly competition.
32 An Unconventional Doctor Visit
Pediatricians lead Walk With a Doc gatherings in Patriots Park.
Around Towne Community News Celebrations Everyday Angels Towne Lake Dining Guide Rob’s Rescues Community Calendar School News Library Events Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide Recent Home Sales Greenprints Trail Map Clubs & Orgs Church Listings Directory of Advertisers
Advertising Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com TowneLakerMagazine
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
@Townelaker
townelakermagazine
Contributors 63 28 31 44 73 24 72 16 32 51 74 26 62 50 26 46 66 18 54 68 64 52 42 20 34 46 56
Don Akridge Larry Blase Zach Blend Martin Buehring Christopher Brazelton Michael Caldwell Greg Fonzeno Claire Frost Dr. Adele Goodloe Dr. Leah Goodson-Gerami Barbara P. Jacoby Kurt & Sheila Johnson Harry Johnston Dr. Madhavi Jordan Dr. Ambre Kragor Dr. Sarah Licht Ann Litrel Dave Loudin Deidre Parker Christopher Purvis Bill Ratliff Elisabeth Stubbs Teddy the Spaz Man Ashley Velez Pacita Wilson Shelley Winter Dr. Amber York
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Around Towne Letter From the Editor
What’s New
One thing I've learned over the years is that most people have an innate desire to help others — they just don't always know how to do it. They usually respond well when given ideas for action, whether it’s to write a check (the Everyday Angels founder can attest to this) or roll up their sleeves and jump in, like packing lunches for MUST or filling backpacks for Give a Kid a Chance. The most recent display of compassion in our community started around the first of the summer, when a core group of local residents launched a platform for giving called Cherokee Gives A ____, in response to the news that Allie Chambers, wife of COED’s Jonathan Chambers, needed medical treatment not covered by insurance. Ashley Velez recaps recent events and shares future ones on Pages 20-21. That’s a perfect example of my theory. If you present an opportunity to help others, rarely will you hear the word no. A fairly painless (unless you’re a sentimental fool like me) way to help others is to donate your gently used treasures to nonprofits with thrift stores. After our move four years ago from the house where we raised our children, I’m quite sure I could have filled my own Goodwill store. I may have, actually. I’ll never know because I didn’t allow myself to go shopping there. I was worried I might see some items that I deliberated over giving away. Glenn would have changed the locks on the house if I tried to walk back in with those treasures. A deeper level of purging has come with our recent move. Now I’m down to sorting through the invaluable artwork my children, now adults, created in elementary school. With the first move, I just kept the lid on the boxes and stashed them away. Now with less storage space, I have some tough decisions to make. Among the many treasures I’ve unearthed are my kids’ Eagle Watch swim team ribbons. I immediately started sweating as I remembered those hot, muggy Thursday evenings spent cheering on our swimmers. The fun and friendly competition, and the hours they spent gaining confidence in the pool, were so worth it, though. Larry Blase, a swim-team dad and frequent contributor, wraps up the season for us on Pages 28-30, with comments from the kids and the list of winners. I know that you, our Cherokee readers, Give A ____. Let me know about the causes that are dear to your heart, and how you’ve responded to help others. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Sandy Kluger and Kellie Block have opened The Butcher and a Baker at 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 140, formerly The
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.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Butcher’s Block. The shop offers cakes, cupcakes, pies, dipped fruit and candies, as well as stuffed meats, a deli section with salads sold by the pound, and a selection of pork, chicken, beef and fish. On Facebook. www.thebutcherandabaker.com.
Twisted Cycle Woodstock, open at 2370 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 120, is a workout facility that offers hourlong workouts that combine indoor cycling and two strength training circuits. 678-350-1425. www.twisted-cycle.com.
What’s Coming
Rootstock & Vine owner Sean Daily has plans to open The Daily Draft Tap Room & Bar at 8594 Main St. in Woodstock, in the former PLAE gym location. At press time, Daily was waiting for City Council approval to requested variances. Daily’s goal is to open this fall.
What’s Closed
Bodyflex Fitness of Woodstock, which was located at
8811 Highway 92, Woodstock, has closed. According to their website, all memberships have been transferred to Onelife Fitness in Holly Springs. 678-752-1400.
Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill has closed in
downtown Woodstock.
What’s Changed
Towne Lake Community Church is no longer meeting
on North Medical Parkway. The congregation has opened as Engage Church at 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, in Woodstock and meets at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. The church shares space with Sar Shalom, a messianic fellowship that gathers for service at 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. www.engagechurch.us.
Abiding Church now meets at 132 N. Medical Parkway, the former location of Towne Lake Community Church. Abiding Church services begin at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. www.abiding.church. Big Blue Z has moved from the Rose Creek office to operating in the tech lab in Lee Martin’s Eagle Watch home. Contact information is 470-305-1228 or email LeeMartin@BigBlueZ.com.
Kudos!
U.S. Navy Veteran Alan Hall recently was presented the Legion of Honor by the French government for his role as a member of the Allied forces helping liberate France during World War II. Hall and his wife Buena are residents of the Oaks at Towne Lake, featured on our July TowneLaker cover.
Credit Union of Georgia was ranked third among Georgia credit unions by Forbes Magazine in its 2019 America’s BestIn-State Credit Unions list for Georgia. Forbes releases the annual rankings based on surveys that go to more than 25,000 individuals across the country.
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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.
Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home
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 Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@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
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, Florida, 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
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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 2019. 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
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Local News
Local Businesses Gives to Those in Need In March, Ursula and Associates Keller Williams Realty Partners, along with partners Thomas & Brown Law, and Supreme Lending, began a campaign to give back to the community that supports them. They vowed to give $500 to $1,000 per closing to Everyday Angels, a local 501(c)3 nonprofit organization serving Cherokee. At the end of this campaign, they were able to present a check in the amount of $13,000 to help those in need in our community. At the presentation were, from left: Ashley Walker, Marsha Bridgette, Natalie Wilson, Alessandra Elliott, Dianne Bagwell, Jason Wilson, Karen Flaig from Everyday Angels, Ursula Butler, Hope Armistead, Stephanie Thompson and Mary Beth Chickering.
Girl Scout Creates Imaginative Project Analise Black, a junior at Etowah High School, has organized an event on Aug. 10 as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award pursuit, which is the Girl Scouts’ version of the Boy Scouts’ Eagle award. Black is inviting community members to come to Lewis Park, off Bells Ferry Road in front of the outdoor YMCA, 10 a.m.-noon, to enjoy the fairy trail she has created for children and families to hike. It’s an area that she hopes will spark the imagination of children. “It’s an area where fairy houses can be built out of fallen/dead natural materials (no man-made materials, so there is no trash and destruction). The children will be able to create miniature fairy houses themselves and use their imaginations,” Black said.
Enrollment Open for Safety Academy The next Woodstock Citizens’ Public Safety Academy is set for Aug. 15-Nov. 7. Classes meet 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays. The academy is a chance for residents to network and learn from local fire and police officials; participate in hands-on, practice exercises with public safety personnel; and take tours of local fire and police departments and the jail. Applications available at www.woodstockga.gov/police/cpsa.
This fairy house was built with twigs, sticks, rocks and leaves. It’s the first natural house in the Lewis Park Fairy Glen.
Local Attorney Appointed to State Board Riverfest Marks 35 Years in Cherokee County The 35th annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival is set for Sept. 28-29 at Etowah River Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. The event is presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, a nonprofit that uses proceeds from this fundraiser to help local families and individuals in need. Riverfest is a juried show, featuring original, creative, handmade work from artisans around the region; 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, concessionaires and entertainers are scheduled. Entertainment includes live music and dancing, as well as a fun-filled area where children of all ages can enjoy rides and activities. Admission is a $5 donation for ages 11 and older. The rain or shine event offers free parking and shuttle services. www.serviceleague.net. 8
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Peter Gleichman has been named to the ALS Association of Georgia chapter’s board of directors. The attorney has served as a team captain for the past 10 years with the Georgia chapter’s Walk to Defeat ALS, and currently serves on the chapter’s advocacy committee. Gleichman’s brother-in-law lived with ALS for eight years. Gleichman also is active with Habitat for Humanity and the Rotary Club of Canton. For more information about the association, visit www.alsaga.org.
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Local News Fire Department Deploys Thermal Imaging Technology Members of the Woodstock Fire Department are using thermal imaging cameras to detect victims who may be trapped or overcome by smoke. The Woodstock Public Safety Foundation presented the department with 18 cameras at a recent city council meeting. The Seek Reveal Fire Pro cameras will be attached to every self-contained breathing apparatus deployed by the fire department. According to the manufacturer’s website, these cameras increase operational speed and situational awareness. Fire officials identified the need for thermal imaging cameras and approached the foundation about funding the initiative earlier this year. Jeremy Adams of Municipal Emergency Services assisted the foundation with the purchase. “Every Woodstock firefighter will now be equipped with one of these valuable tools when fighting fire,” Chief Dave Soumas said. “This will help better protect citizens’ lives and first responders’ lives as well.”
A camera is attached to each self-contained breathing apparatus worn by a firefighter.
Cub Scouts Proud of Parade Win A float created by members of Cub Scout Pack 994 out of Hillside United Methodist Church won in the History and Heritage category during the July 4 parade in Woodstock. Mayor Donnie Henriques awarded the trophy to the scouts. Pack 999 meets at Bascomb Elementary. Boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to join Towne Lake Packs 994 and 999. Leaders promise adventure, fun, creativity and family activities. For more information, visit. www.townelakescouting.com. 10
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From left: W. Allen Gudenrath (Board of Regents, University System of Georgia), Amy Carter (deputy commissioner, Rural Georgia Initiatives, Georgia Department of Economic Development), Brantley Day (Woodstock’s community development director), Christopher Nunn (commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs), Katie O'Connor (Woodstock’s senior city planner), G.P. "Bud" Petersen (president, Georgia Institute of Technology), and Katy Leggett (Woodstock’s GIS manager).
Woodstock Chosen for Smart Communities Challenge Woodstock officials have a new advantage as they explore, study and plan using technology, thanks to Georgia Tech’s 2019 Georgia Smart Community Challenge. The city is one of four recipients in the one-year challenge, which provides grant funding and access to technical assistance, expert advice, and a network of peers. Woodstock was awarded the grant for a Smart Master Plan and Corridor Study. This project will conduct a study to improve mobility and congestion in the city and deal with rapid growth and uneven commuting patterns. Collaborators include the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority, and local design and development agency Black Airplane. The other winning proposals were Columbus Smart Uptown, Macon Smart Neighborhoods, and Milton Smarter Safer Routes to School. Projects will begin in September and conclude in September, 2020. The program’s collaborators include: Georgia Tech, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), the Georgia Association of Regional Commissions, Association County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Municipal Association, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Georgia Planning Association, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Technology Association of Georgia and Georgia Power.
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Local News Church Joins Effort to End Global Hunger Members of Hillside United Methodist Church have set a goal of preparing 100,000 meals on Sept. 14, part of a commitment to battling hunger through the Rise Against Hunger campaign. The goal is to bring 400 volunteers (ages 5 and older) together at the church on Sept. 14 to assemble the meals. Volunteer shifts are available 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. Clubs, groups, teams, families and neighbors are invited. A nursery will be available for children under age 4, with a reservation. www.hillsideumc.org/fighthunger. Rise Against Hunger is an international organization focused on ending hunger by 2030. Local communities, such as Hillside’s, work together toward that goal. www.riseagainsthunger.org.
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
Aug. 1, Sept. 5
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast
The chamber’s breakfast meetings offer current and future members the chance to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. At the county’s conference center at 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. August sponsor is Darby Funeral Home. September sponsor is Reinhardt University.
Aug. 6
SchmoozaPalooza, a Business Networking Party
4-7 p.m. at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. SchmoozaPalooza is designed to bring businesses together in a 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. Presented by Cobb EMC, Georgia Power and Synovus.
Aug. 14
Members who participated in the ceremony were White, Vice Regent Paula Spicer, Kate Sklikas and Brenda King.
Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Members of the Kennesaw Mountain Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), which includes Cherokee County, recently participated in a ceremonial wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The tomb is dedicated to U.S. service members who have died with their remains unidentified. The unknown soldiers laid to rest there represent all missing and unknown service members who made the ultimate sacrifice; it is the final resting place for World War I, World War II and Korean War veterans, and it is always guarded. The chapter was granted the honor during the 128th Continental Congress at the DAR Headquarters in Washington, D.C. “Our chapter organized a dedication to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier while attending the DAR Continental Congress. There are no words that could adequately express the humbling experience participating in the wreath laying ceremony,” said Loriann White, organizing and chapter regent. White was one of four executive officers who took part in the ceremony. 12
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B.L.A.S.T.T. Workshop: The Biggest Wage and Hour Mistakes Employers Make and How to Avoid Them. 9 -11 a.m. Presented by Brad Adler, Freeman Mathis & Gary LLP. The discussion will cover some critical wage and hour issues that employers must understand, including: • The three mandatory conditions that must be satisfied to classify someone as an exempt employee. • How to reduce your exposure to "working off of the clock" claims. • Navigating meal and rest break issues. • Options for paying employees who are on leave without creating wage and hour exposure.
Aug. 22
CPR/AED Training
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the terrace level of the chamber office. As part of the Cherokee County Chamber's Community Outreach Programs, a CPR/AED class will be taught by a representative of Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. Must be 14 years old to be certified. $45.
Power Hour, 10-11 a.m. Fast-paced networking with fellow business and chamber leaders. At the chamber’s board room.
Aug. 28
Leadership Symposium
This one-day conference, set for 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature four speakers, who will share thought-provoking information to be used on the job and in life. Cost includes continental breakfast, lunch and two networking breaks. The location is the Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Sponsored by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia Power, Sold by Julianne – Keller Williams Atlanta North, State Farm Insurance Jey Willis Agency. Presented by Reinhardt University.
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Celebrations!
Emily Collins
Gram Schroeder
Sweet 16 on Aug. 8! We are so proud of you and love you so much! Love, Mom, Dad, Amy and Tommy.
Turning 2 on Aug. 2. Happy birthday to our sweet baby, Gram, who has brought so much love, joy and laughter into our home. Pete, Corinne and big sister Alice.
Jonah Kish
Mikey Jurs
July 1 Happy 10th birthday! Luv you, Mom, Dad, Jacob and Jack.
Turning 10 on Aug. 12. Happy birthday to our sweet, kind, smart, athletic Mikey. We love you so much, Bella, Dad and Mom.
Zoey Perez
Happy 7th birthday! We are so proud of the beautiful person you are becoming. Love, Mom, Dad and Maddie.
Jay
Age 2 on Aug. 17. Happy birthday to our Jay Bug! You're the sweetest little boy! With love, your Mommy and Daddy.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.
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Setting the Table with Local Harvest BY CLAIRE FROST
Do you know what a Daikon radish is? It’s a delicious winter radish used primarily in Southeast and East Asian cooking. It’s known for its rapidly growing leaves and long, white root with multiple benefits: possibly preventing cancer; being a natural diuretic; stimulating the digestive system; boosting the immune system, and improving bone health. It can be pickled, roasted, braised or boiled. I wouldn’t know any of that if not for meeting Eric Velji, the owner of Forerunner Foods and co-owner of Flux Ice Cream. Eric has made his life’s work out of bringing healthy food to consumers through farm-to-table initiatives. The Woodstock High grad grew up frequenting food trucks and local dive restaurants with his family, and that set the foundation for his love of unique foods and flavors. After graduating from Kennesaw State University, he joined the workforce (in insurance, to be exact), where he determined that doing things because “that’s how they’ve always been done” was not going to fulfill him. He turned to farming, a profession he respected and wanted to be involved in. In doing research, he determined farming isn’t always a reliable source of income. (Have you seen how crowded the farmer’s market is when it rains?) Eric realized local farmers needed to sell to multiple restaurants, and restaurateurs needed to have product from multiple farms. He put together a plan after realizing that farmers and chefs work very different hours. Acting as a mediator for restaurants enables him to handle the back and forth with the farmers, while working with their unique schedules. His farming knowledge allows him to educate restaurants on the origins of their food (and how to pass that info to their customers), and save them money on products grown locally. Over a beer with a local chef, the two realized there was a hole in the market for fresh, local, homemade ice cream. They dreamed up the idea that 16
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Eric and Beth Velji, with Porter, 4 and Evelyn, 1.
people might like the taste of ice cream without artificial colors, emulsifiers and artificial flavors. Using fresh, in-season ingredients, they began making batches and now their Flux Ice Cream (as the seasons fluctuate, so do the ingredients) can be found in pop-ups all over Cherokee County. In true entrepreneur style, Eric is working on a community supported agriculture program that will offer weekly produce boxes to Cherokee residents. Each box, enough to feed a family of four, will feature 80% to 90% of commonly known items, while the rest introduces them to unfamiliar ingredients. Cooking instructions will be included. After talking with Eric for just a little while, it was clear he is a man full of great ideas. However, that
entrepreneurial spirit can come at a cost. When I asked about his work-life balance, he said, “There is none. It’s all happening at the same time.” His life doesn’t have a daily routine to set a clock by, but on the day of our interview, he knew the tasks he had to do for his business and the family time that was ahead: having dinner with his wife and two young kids. Maybe blend would be a better word than balance. How ever, Eric does it, we appreciate his efforts in helping farmers, and making it easier for all of us live healthier lives. Claire is the editor of House of Frost, a blog juggling family, fashion, food and furnishing with a little sparkle. HouseFrost.com.
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Woodstock, a Synonym for Music BY DAVE LOUDIN
While this month marks the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock Music Festival, not much is happening to commemorate that 1969 event, which saw more than 400,000 people gathered at Max Yasgur’s dairy farm near Woodstock, New York, for what was billed as an Aquarian Exposition: Three Days of Peace and Music. However, our own Woodstock has much to offer to those looking for live music. You can hear a variety of musical genres, from local artists to nationally known acts, performing in our burgeoning music scene. Plan a visit to downtown Woodstock where, on any given evening, you can find numerous downtown restaurants, rooftop bars and a local coffee shop offering a broad variety of live music options. You can hear everything from local singer-songwriters working out new material to nationally touring cover bands plugging in, turning up their amps and belting out their hits. Yes, even in Georgia - Woodstock is known for its music.
Enjoying an evening at The Lantern Series, from left, James and Cathy Pinkston, Jackie and Dave Loudin, Dean and Brenda Liedberg, and Lisa and Gary Snow.
WDSTK Summer Concert Series
The Lantern Series
Friday Night Live
This season, the Woodstock Summer Concert Series at Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater has continued its tradition of providing outstanding entertainment and drawing huge crowds. Thousands of music fans have enjoyed the series, which has featured performances by local country music favorite, and Grand Ole Opry inductee, Mark Wills, and the ’90s rock band Better Than Ezra. The multi-platinum-selling rock legend Little River Band will perform on Aug. 10. www.woodstockconcertseries.com.
At the Elm Street Event Green, you can find The Lantern Series, presented by the Elm Street Cultural Arts Center. This series is designed to bring world-renowned artists to our community, representing different genres, backgrounds and ideologies. Upcoming performances include The Lone Bellow, Soulsha, and the Gina Furtado Project. You owe it to yourself to check out this highly entertaining concert experience, which also includes a competitive table-decorating contest. www. elmstreetarts.org/lantern-series.
The first Friday of each month, March through December, means the streets of downtown Woodstock are filled for Friday Night Live. Many local acts and street performers come out to entertain and help bring our community together. The central theme of the event changes every month, and has included Mardi Gras, Star Wars Night and, last month, a salute to the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock Music Festival. visitwoodstockga. com/event-group/friday-night-live.
Laura Blakes and Erika Brand enjoying the Woodstock Summer Concert Series.
Mark and Colleen Crumpton enjoy Violet Blue on June 1.
Emily and Amy with their lab Tommy at Friday Live season kick off, Fido Fest.
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Cherokee Gives A Community Embraces Charity Events to Help Cancer Patient BY ASHLEY VELEZ
Cherokee County is no stranger to wrapping the community in love and generosity when a need arises. And the community has so artfully illustrated this generosity during the past few months with an incredible, wholehearted initiative called Cherokee Gives A _____. (The blank was added as a politically correct alternative to the real name of the organization, leaving folks to use their imaginations to fill in the blank.)
Dan Thrailkill, left, and Joe Cianciolo of Front Porch Advisers with DD Lee, owner of Skyline Properties. 20
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In May, a handful of community members learned Allison “Allie” Chambers, wife of Jonathan Chambers (community manager of entrepreneurship for the Cherokee Office of Economic Development) was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. This is Allie’s second round of cancer, after fighting stage two in 2016. This time, the cancer returned aggressively, spreading to her pelvis, spine, ribs and lungs. Allie is remaining with her original oncologist for treatment, and they’re taking a cocktail approach to battle the cancer with multiple solutions, including a combination of conventional (chemo, hormone therapy, bone supporting drugs) and alternative (nutrition and exercise, IV Vitamin D) methods. This customized plan typically isn’t covered by insurance, and after a biopsy and most likely hysterectomy, treatments will last 12 weeks and come with a hefty price tag of $75,000. The hysterectomy will put Allie in early menopause, adding more physical challenges and stress. Within hours of hearing about Allie’s diagnosis and treatment needs, a flurry of Facebook messages, texts and emails began. Shortly thereafter, more than 30 businesses and individuals gathered to discuss this question: “What can we do?” The result? An association of people that shares a common purpose: to unite Cherokee County to help the Chambers family, through events that raise money and awareness.
Meet Jonathan and Allie
WOODSTOCK PHOTOS BY BRITTANY WEIR PHOTOGRAPHY
Jonathan and Allie’s story comes to life through a raw and heartfelt video created by local visual storytelling duo Half Machine. It’s a reminder of why residents and business owners of Cherokee rallied so hard and so quickly. The six-minute testimonial featuring Jonathan and Allie shares their incredible story in greater detail; the pain, love and strength as they navigate through this second cancer fight.
“
Seeing the outpouring with this second round of cancer, it’s crazy. The questions that come on my mind are, (I don’t say it out loud, but) ‘Why do you want to help and where does this come from?’ And I don’t know that I’ve quite discovered it yet, but it feels like this very raw, desire inside of people here locally to actually want to love on people, and love on them practically … The experiences we've had trying to do community in different ways, it's beautiful to watch a community like this that doesn't really know us that well ... to feel like we're part of that family? Is the ultimate honor. - Jonathan Chambers
”
“
The way that this community has rallied around us, when most of them have never even met me, they just know my sweet husband, the way that they have just sacrificed their time, energy, their gifts and talents, their money … there are no words to describe how grateful we are for that. This is beyond anything we could ever say thank you adequately for. - Allison “Allie” Chambers
”
Woodstock Responds
The location-based events kicked off June 21 with Drink Coffee for a Cause, an all-day event when Alma Coffee donated a portion of coffee and T-shirt sales at their location in The Circuit. Later that evening, the Community Block Party in downtown Woodstock began. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village opened the event green. Reformation Brewery created a special beer to raise money. Pie Bar created a special pie and Flux Ice Cream announced a dedicated ice cream flavor. The event featured live music from local musicians Kurt Wheeler, Cody Bolden, Jonathan Peyton and Total Bummer. Other participating Woodstock businesses included Rootstock and Vine, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Bruster’s Ice Cream and Truck & Tap, also donating a portion of purchases made during the event. Local artists and small business owners donated raffle prizes, and a table was set up where cards and personal messages could be created for Allie to read during treatment.
Ball Ground Follows
The second event took place a week later in Ball Ground. On June 29, businesses came together in support, offering a day of activities that included a farmers’ market, live music and street performers, a city-wide scavenger hunt, cornhole tournament, and a city-sponsored concert by the Betty Fly Band. The day ended with the city’s annual fireworks show. More than 20 businesses and organizations were involved in planning the event, spearheaded by the owners of Barrel House Coffee Company and the Ball Ground Burger Bus.
The Rest of Us
While the initial kickoff activities were taking place, and even afterward, other businesses around the county have collaborated to create their own events, aligning them with Cherokee Gives A to spread awareness and raise money. Even with the remarkable success of the first two events, the initiative for the Chambers family is far from over. At press time, more events were being scheduled in Holly Springs (mid-July), Canton (early August) and Waleska (Aug. 31). Members of Young Professionals IN WDSTK are hosting a golf tournament Sept. 24 at the Fairways of Canton called Cherokee Gives a Mulligan. Follow Cherokee Gives A for the latest updates and event details.
Just the Beginning
As for the future of Cherokee Cherokee Gives A _____, leaders of the initiative agree that this is not a one-off platform for doing good. When another need arises, the platform is already established, and can be mobilized quickly. Jonathan and Allie have said they hope the initiative grows to help others in the community, a sustainable movement that won’t end with just one family. Of course, change - as well as the persons involved - is expected over time, but the overall hope is that this initiative will be around for the long-term, and spread to include every nook and cranny of our compassionate county. So far, there are more than 81 sponsors, participants and collaborators, and that number continues to grow. The collective events, social media attention and calls to action have brought the organization to about $20,000 shy of the Chambers family's target. With more events scheduled, there are plenty of opportunities for additional sponsors and participants to work together. Donations through Cherokee.gives and the GoFundMe.com/ rallieforallie will go directly to the Chambers family. Follow Allie’s Rally Against Breast Cancer and Cherokee Gives A _____ on Facebook and Instagram. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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EVERYDAY
Summer seems to end much quicker than it arrives, as children prepare for another chapter in their lives. But, also, in that short time span, life’s circumstances can change, leaving us preparing for a life that will look different than we imagined. Aiden Hulsey, 15, a rising sophomore at Etowah High School, will be at the Shepherd Center, thinking of his friends and classmates, as the school year begins without him. On June 13, Aiden was riding bikes with his friends and brother when he attempted a trick, lost his balance and crash-landed, causing damage to his cervical vertebrae. His 12-year-old brother saw him fall and, when he realized Aiden wasn’t moving, he called their dad immediately. When David arrived, he dialed 911 and waited by his son’s side for the paramedics. “Dad I can’t feel anything, show me that you’re holding my hand,” Aidan said. Paramedics rushed Aidan to WellStar Kennestone Hospital’s trauma unit and into surgery, where they were able to fuse vertebrae C3, C4, C6 and C7 to release the pressure from his spinal cord. However, C5 was shattered, and a second surgery was needed to replace it. Unable to breathe on his own, Aiden was placed on a ventilator and later developed pneumonia in both lungs. After his second surgery on June 18, Aiden’s ventilator was replaced with a tracheotomy that will remain for another four to six weeks. Aiden was transferred to the Shepherd Center, where he will live for 30-45 days and begin physical, occupational, respiratory and speech therapies. Time will tell whether his paralysis is permanent, but they are encouraged at some of the positive signs he has displayed. There are many unknowns ahead that will require time, patience and hard work. Aiden’s parents both work full-time 22
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Aiden with brothers Brennen and Grayson at Easter, before the accident.
jobs and have two younger sons at home. Unsure of what lies ahead for them, they are preparing to modify their home to accommodate Aiden’s return. Initially, his home care will require two full-time adult caregivers. David and Jennifer, Aiden’s stepmother, are taking it day to day as they determine how they will manage their new daily challenges while keeping life as normal as possible for their two younger sons. Aiden is a charming young man, full of energy, who loves adventure, his family and his friends. He loves to live life to the fullest, and is the type who wants to make everyone happy. “Even through this accident, his determination is shining through and we are standing together in prayer for a full recovery,” Jennifer said. “Our son is strong in his faith and his walk with Jesus. He constantly asks for prayer,
so we pray. Aiden knows this is going to be a long road as we’re all preparing ourselves for this journey.” Friends and neighbors who love Aiden and their family have been busy sharing their story to help them. Never wanting to ask for help, the Hulsey family now realizes the challenge ahead of them: “We’ve had our time with God, we’ve had our cries, breakdowns but mostly we’ve had our praises to God for giving us his life. We’re fully aware of the journey we’re about to endure and we’re OK! We ask that you continue to lift our son in prayer. When we worship, when we praise, heaven comes to fight for us.” It is a good time for our community to rally – to join the Hulseys in their prayers, and support them financially, as you feel led. Let’s be the hands and feet of God for this family.
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com
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North Atlanta Venture BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL
In January of this year, I was honored that the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) invited me on a trip to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to learn more about its proven Venture Mentorship Service (VMS). VMS is a program where MIT matches experienced professionals with entrepreneurs to serve as mentors for new entrepreneurial ventures. Cherokee County, having been selected and trained by the MIT VMS outreach program, is setting up the first of these programs in Georgia: the North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service (NAV). This program is based on the idea that ventures are far more likely to thrive when an entrepreneur with an idea can draw on the advice and guidance of a group of mentors with proven skills and experience. I can tell you from personal experience this is absolutely true. In 2011, I was privileged to be part of a small team, including my father, Mark, and my best friend, David, that founded Python Safety, a safety equipment company focused on dropped object prevention. My father had spent a career starting and building companies, specifically in the cyber security industry, for acquisition. Dropped objects were, at the time, the third largest cause of death in the workplace in the United States, causing more deaths than falls. Fall protection is highly regulated, and a required part of any project at height throughout the world, but governments and industries largely had been silent on dropped objects. Through that company, I wrote the basis of the dropped object policy that now governs a majority of workers at height throughout the U.S. and around the globe. We changed an industry, and ultimately sold the company to 3M in 2015.
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New Mentoring Service Takes Cherokee to Next Level
My current business partner, David, and I ventured off in 2017 to start a software company in Woodstock that started with three of us. Two years later, we have 17 full-time employees and we’re growing. We’re cash-flow positive, profitable and have no outside investment. I am completely convinced that this wouldn’t have been possible without several years of working with and being directly mentored by some fantastic and successful entrepreneurs, including my father.
The North Atlanta VMS will be leveraging the experience of some of the most successful entrepreneurs, and businessmen and women, in our community ... The North Atlanta VMS will be leveraging the experience of some of the most successful entrepreneurs, and businessmen and women, in our community for the benefit of entrepreneurs and ventures all over the metro Atlanta region. This isn’t just a great example of Cherokee County’s successful paying it forward. It’s a tremendous signal of things to come. I remain convinced that Cherokee County is positioned to be the entrepreneurial and innovation capital of Atlanta. We
were the fastest growing county (out of 159) in Georgia the past 10 years, and almost certainly will be again in the next 10 years. The professional base in our community is tired of commuting to midtown, and has realized that between Woodstock, Canton, Holly Springs and Ball Ground, our downtown areas offer everything an up-and-coming venture could need. The COED built The Circuit, a tremendous coworking space in downtown Woodstock; Fresh Start Cherokee provides entrepreneurial programming; and now NAV will better equip our ventures to succeed in a competitive environment. Entrepreneurs from across the region are realizing Cherokee County is a great home for risk takers. Our message is fast becoming: “If you’ll bet on yourself, we’ll bet on you.” We live in the No. 1 state in which to do business, and we live in a fantastic community. We’re on the precipice of a new chapter, as well, and we get to write it together. This is our time. I couldn’t be more proud to live in Cherokee County with each of you, and I’m thrilled to see the North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service come to fruition here. If you have any concerns about NAV, or any other issue, feel free to reach out to me at michael@caldwellforgeorgia. com or on my cellphone 678-5238570. You also can join us at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings for our Weekly Coffee with District 20 at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity to represent our families in our General Assembly.
Michael Caldwell is the state representative 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.
Hair Colour Specialists
facebook: elonsalon | instagram: @elonsalon1 | youtube: elonsalon
770.427.8698 • elonsalon.com • 695 Piedmont Rd • Marietta GA 30066 TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Is It Time For Baby Boomers To Sell? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON
It is estimated that 8,000 to 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day. It also is estimated that more than 20 million senior homeowners will attempt to sell their homes between 2015 and 2030, with the highest concentration of selling in the 2020s. What impact will this influx of properties have on our market? Who are the buyers for these homes, and are senior sellers considering market timing in their decision to sell? Towne Lake began development in the late 1980s and, because of home prices at the time, home buyers tended to be in their late 20s to mid-30s. Now, fast-forward 30 years, and a large number of these homeowners are in their mid- to late60s. Many have moved from one neighborhood to another, but an astonishing number have stayed in Towne Lake. With all of its conveniences, why leave? However, it may be time for seniors to ask themselves that question. Who will buy these larger, higher priced homes? Generation X buyers will purchase many of them, but this generation does not have the same buying power in their 30s that baby boomers did — largely because of the Great Recession. The X generation was impacted more than any other by the recession. A recent study shows that millennials are saddled with record debts. Student loans have tripled over the past decade
to an average of $29,000, and millenials are struggling with a flat job market. In addition, home ownership is less of a priority for millennials. Home ownership has dropped more in the 24-35 age segment than any other (from 43% to 34% in the past 30 years). What does this all mean? While our economy is growing, Towne Lake's growing popularity should provide sufficient demand for homes being sold by downsizing seniors. The concern is that, when the overall economy slows down, the demand for more expensive homes will be impacted most, just like during the Great Recession, when the most expensive homes stopped selling first and recovered last. Market demand for homes recently has been at an all-time high, but we have started to see the slightest slowdown in the higher price points. If your parents haven’t already downsized into the home they plan to grow old in, our advice is to sell while there is still sufficient demand to get top dollar. The current post-recession expansion cannot last indefinitely.
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
The Right Age to See an Orthodontist BY DR. AMBRE KRAGOR
We often hear parents say, “My child has not lost all of (his or her) baby teeth, but my dentist wants me to come for an evaluation for braces.” There are various reasons why your child may need braces at an early age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children get a checkup by an orthodontist at the first recognition of the existence of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7. By this age, your child has enough adult teeth for an orthodontist to determine whether an orthodontic problem exists or is developing. The orthodontist also will be able to take an X-ray to evaluate the development of unerupted teeth, and the harboring bones and jaws. Dentists are trained to evaluate the teeth and bite, and sometimes things may not look quite right to them and they may refer you to an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone advanced specialty training in the field of orthodontics. They are specialized to assess the bite and supporting bones and facial structures, to create proper occlusal form and function, as well as help create a beautiful smile. Signs that your child’s bite is not right can be: early or late loss of baby teeth, habits such as thumb or finger sucking, 26
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mouth breathing, difficulty chewing or biting, flared front teeth, an underbite (a bulldog’s bite), teeth in front and behind other teeth (crossbite), a narrow top arch and severe crowding. Any of these issues, a combination of them, or even emotional reasons such as teasing at school due to their teeth, can be a reason for early orthodontic treatment. Many orthodontists offer complimentary, no-obligation consultations that allow your child to have an evaluation to determine if any problems exist. Do not fret, however, if your child was not seen by an orthodontist by the age of 7. It is not too late. In fact, it is never too late for orthodontic treatment. Many parents do not seek orthodontic treatment until their child is 12 or 13 (sometimes older), and there is still time for intervention to be done. A majority of children do not need early treatment – many children who are evaluated have perfectly straight teeth. However, if you are concerned, it is never too late (or too early) to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist.
Dr. Ambre Kragor, and her husband Andy, are orthodontists who practice in the Towne Lake/Woodstock area. 770-485-8827. www.KragorOrtho.com.
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Bradshaw Barracudas, from left: Laurel Blase, Stella Reissig, Clara Williams, Lainey Blase, Mimi Griffies and Gigi Williams.
Barracuda Carleigh Cato gets ready to swim.
Sophia Geoghagan and Kaylee Cesnik swim with the Barracudas. 28
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Eagle watch swimmer, swimming butterfly.
BRADSHAW BARRACUDA PHOTOS BY DARBY ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY
Summer Splash
For Cherokee Families, Swim League Means Fun, Friendly Competition BY LARRY BLASE
In neighborhoods across Cherokee County, summer just wouldn’t be the same without Thursday night swim meets! In all, young swimmers from 13 subdivisions in the county compete throughout the month of June. And this summer, with the merger of Cherokee Summer Swim Association and Atlanta Swim Association, Cherokee teams were among 130 teams across the metro area that had the opportunity to face off at season’s end in the Olympic Pool at Georgia Tech. Fourteen-year-old Eva Hunnius swims for the Rivergreen Rays. “My favorite part of summer swim is being able to meet and interact with kids I didn’t really know, and by the end of the season becoming their friend,” she said. “It brought a smile to my face when I would walk into a meet and get flooded with hugs from the little ones, support from my coaches and teammates, and knowing that, even if we didn’t win, that every swimmer has happy and excited to be there doing what they love.” Natasha Cato’s kids swim for the Bradshaw Farm Barracudas. "This was my kids’ first year joining swim team. Swim really motivated them to dig deep within themselves physically and mentally, which I feel will make them better athletes overall. In addition, we met some extraordinary families and made lifelong friends.” Ansley Davis, who swam for the Barracudas for years before becoming the team’s head coach, said, “Summer swim is all about having fun and making memories that will last a lifetime, while learning a sport that kids can do forever. My goal as a coach is to see smiles on the faces of all my swimmers, watch them show off their best dance moves, as well as their fast swimming, and have swim team be something they can look forward to summer after summer.” Eleven-year-old Barracuda Maris Kate Williams put it simply: “I like cheering on my friends and teammates during their races.” This season was Luke Osgood’s first as head coach of the Towne Lake Hills Tidal Waves. He said, “It could not have been a more rewarding experience. It is always a special moment when you get a child involved in the sport of swimming for the first time. I was able to meet great people, and was also able to get kids interested in swimming yearround.” One of Osgood’s swimmers, Bella Postel, age 13, said, “The bond that the coaches have with us kids is just incredible.” Franke Marsden is the Atlanta Swim Association’s league coordinator. “Our favorite part of each season (is) the weekly meets. No matter how big or small the teams are, the meets are the weekly payoff for kids, as their performances reflect the hard work they have put in during the week,” he said. “Additionally, meets are usually a very social event, where kids and their parents catch up with their friends and neighbors from their own team and their opponents from other nearby neighborhoods, in the spirit of friendly competition.” In this summer’s regular season competition, Bradshaw Farm went undefeated at 4-0, and Eagle Watch was second with a 4-1 record. Rivergreen was the highest-scoring Cherokee team at the ASA Championships. www.atlantaswimming.com. More photos on page 30.
Barracuda Coach Thomas Lovin doing butterfly.
Home meet at Eagle Watch. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Summer Splash
continued from page 29
Deer Run Dolphins enjoy snack time.
Kenzie Bridgette, left, and Natalie Morris are proud to be part of the Wyngate Waves.
Swimmers from 13 subdivisions, including Eagle Watch, compete throughout the month of June.
Swimmers, parents and coaches say the Pledge of Allegiance before a Barracuda swim meet begins. 30
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Focus on Foster Care: What’s a Home Study? BY ZACH BLEND
In my past few articles, I have discussed the initial steps in the process to become a licensed foster parent. Step one focused on setting the right expectations for you and your family, while applying an attitude of service and sacrifice. Step two walked through Impact Training – the mandatory teaching modules geared toward educating individuals on the various aspects associated with fostering. This month we will dive into the third step of the licensing process − the home study. So, you’ve completed Impact Training. You’ve learned about circumstances that lead to children being placed in the foster care system. You’ve discussed topics such as trauma, best parenting practices and key safety protocols. With a sense of knowledge and enthusiasm, you are ready to foster, aside from one last step. First, you have to complete the home study. A home study is the most personal part of the foster care licensing process. For most agencies, it includes a set structure of interviews that allows a future family to share about their family history, current lifestyle and motive for choosing to serve in this capacity. D’Anna Liber, a former Cherokee County Division of Family and Children Services director who now serves as a home study contractor for Goshen Homes Foster Agency, shared the following thoughts about the process.
“The home study process, while an invasive and very deliberate process, is a necessary step toward becoming a licensed foster parent in the state of Georgia. Because the state of Georgia accepts the full responsibility of caring for children in their care, the families in whose homes the children are placed must be thoroughly assessed to be safe and able to care for children in loving and supportive ways. We recognize that children in foster care have suffered abuse and neglect, sometimes in very traumatic circumstances; therefore, the families who are licensed must be determined to be safe, as well as nurturing and loving homes.” Once the interview process is completed, typically after two visits, the third and final visit focuses on placement preferences, and ensuring your home meets the safety requirements expected ahead of serving children in your home. We’ll study these last two components more closely in the October issue.
Zach Blend is CEO of the Goshen Valley Foundation and a Georgia Trend 40 Under 40 recipient. He and his wife, Rachel, have three children, and are members of Hillside UMC. zblend@goshenvalley.org.
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WALK
with a DOC BY DR. ADELE GOODLOE
As a pediatrician, I get to talk with many families about the importance of one hour of daily heart-thumping, sweat-inducing exercise. Just 60 minutes of exercise can reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, joint problems, anxiety and depression. While these sound like adult problems for a pediatrician to be addressing, these serious issues often are evident in early childhood. More than a third of children struggle with weight, which many will carry into adulthood. What can we do to change this unhealthy path? What tools do families need? Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio, asked these same questions and created the Walk With a Doc program in 2005. The idea is both simple and brilliant – rather than only offering words in an office setting, let’s give patients something tangible: a prescription to walk, with a date, time and place and a commitment from the doctor to be there, as well. Dr. Amy Hardin and I started the Woodstock chapter of Walk With a Doc in September, 2018. We meet at 4 p.m. the second and fourth Sunday of each month at Patriots Park, 1485 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth.
From left, Dr. Amy Hardin, Dr. Adele Goodloe and Linnea Goodloe.
We give a 3-minute health-related talk, followed by attendance prizes for kids, and then a walk. The event is open to community members of all ages and capabilities – strollers, wagons, bikes and scooters are welcome. To date, our youngest participant was a 4-month-old with her mother, and our oldest was a 73-yearold grandfather. We walk a .75 mile loop, and everyone is encouraged to go at their own speed, from racing teenagers to strolling wagon-pullers. Afterward, kids can explore the playground, and teens
can play soccer or Frisbee. While exercising is as simple as going for a walk, having a group to hold you accountable, and other kids encouraging your kids, can make exercising seem more doable. In addition to physical activity, we can build a strong family network through Walk With a Doc. Being a parent is not an easy task. As a mother of three young children, I certainly can attest to that. I became a pediatrician because I believe that childhood is the stage of life where I can really make a difference. If we teach kids about exercise and healthy habits from the beginning, imagine the impact it can have on the rest of their lives. I hope you will join us at our next Walk With a Doc, but no matter what you do — keep on exercising!
Take a Walk! Aug. 11, Aug. 25, Sept. 15, Sept. 29, Oct. 13, Oct. 27 4 pm. at Patriots Park Meet near the playground. https://walkwithadoc.org
Mike Goodloe, Ian Hurst and Eliza Goodloe on their wheels. 32
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Dr. Adele Goodloe is a pediatrician at Northside Pediatrics, as well as a busy mom with a 5-yearold and 3-year-old twins.
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5 Easy Steps to a Spectacular Summer Tablescape BY PACITA WILSON
Make your guests feel exceptional by recreating this beautiful, yet simple, summer table setting. Your guests will enjoy the evening, and be amazed by your decorating skills.
1. 2. 3.
Start with a simple white tablecloth (we used one purchased from TJ Maxx). Then, layer with paper runners and burlap placemats to add texture to the table. Next, arrange the pieces of your centerpiece. It is important to keep all elements of this beauty at a level that allows your guests to see across the table and easily engage in conversation. Don’t forget, always add candles − they make everything shine!
4.
For the place settings, start with a charger, add a dinner plate and a fun accent plate. Include guests’ names in the place setting by using a place card holder. Of course, add a fun napkin to complete the look.
5.
For a final touch of texture and individuality, add a sprinkling of dried black beans. Pacita Wilson is the owner of Pineapple Park Home www.pineapplepark.com
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Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill
Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 cancunmexicangrill.net
Cheeseburger Bobby’s American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 cheeseburgerbobbys.com
China Fun
Chinese 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671 chinafunwoodstock.com
Donovan’s Irish Cobbler American Irish 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763 donovansirishcobbler.com
El Ranchero
Mexican 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 elranchero8.com
Family Tradition
Homestyle Cooking 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885 familytradition.net
GAMEDAY Fresh Grill American/Burgers 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754 gamedayfresh.com
Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 johnnyspizza.com
Kani House
Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 kanihouse.com
Keegan's Irish Pub
Irish/Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 770-627-4393 keegansirishpub.net
La Parrilla
Mexican 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606 laparrilla.com
LongHorn
Steakhouse 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494 longhornsteakhouse.com
Maple Street Biscuit Co. Southern 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, #160 678-903-2161 maplestreetbiscuits.com
Mellow Mushroom
Pizza/Pasta 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331 mellowmushroom.com
Izumi Asian Bistro
NY Style Deli & Pizza
JD’s Bar-B-Que
Panera Bread
Thai/Sushi/Chinese 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899 iloveizumi.com Barbeque 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730 jdsbbq.com
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Johnny’s Pizza
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Pizza/Subs/ Bakery 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004 pizzabymansi.com
Bakery/Soups/Sandwiches 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809 panerabread.com
Peking & Tokyo
Chinese/Japanese 200 Parkbrooke Drive, #160 770-591-8858 pekingandtokyoga.com
Song’s Garden
Chinese 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #320 770-928-8387 songsgarden.com
Tavern at Towne Lake American 1003 Towne Lake Hills East 770-592-9969 tavernattownelake.com
The Place
Bar/Grill 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901 theplacebargrill.com
Tuscany
Italian 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888 mytuscanyrestaurant.com
Volcano Steak & Sushi Asian 2990 Eagle Drive, #100, 101 678-498-7888 volcanowoodstock.com
WOW Pho & Grill
Vietnamese 6242 Bells Ferry Road, #118 678-383-6099 On Facebook at: Wow Pho & Grill
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Furr-Real!
Cats are Purr-fect Companions
Aug. 8 is International Cat Day, also known as World Cat Day. Created in 2002, it encourages people to celebrate the friendship shared by humans and cats, and also to advocate for the safety and well-being of cats. Celebrate with us, and even if you’re not a cat person, we bet these cute cat faces will make you smile.
Patty Ponder
Millie is our sweet prissy 9-pound little domestic calico. She was found under a bridge on 575 and I discovered her at the Animal Hospital of Towne Lake, after she had been rescued. She is little but she rules our 30-pound dog and 22-pound male cat. She is loved by everyone who meets her, when she charms them with her purr and cute little face. She even wears a bow on her collar!
Jackie Loudin
Several years ago, I sent my husband and youngest son to the Cherokee Animal Shelter with instructions to adopt one female cat, and I did not want an orange tabby. (We had lost two previous orange tabbies and I didn’t want the reminder.) So, they came home with two males − one of which is an orange tabby. Meet Milo (AKA: Orange Kitty, O.C., Miles) and Charlie (AKA: Charles, Chuck, Chip, Charles Xavier, Professor X). We love a good nickname or two.
This is Blitzer! He is a 22-pound kitty who is part Maine Coon and believed to be part Persian. We adopted him when he was a few weeks old. He had a skin condition and was almost bald. He has certainly made up for that with his beautiful coat. He is our big boy who just wants to be loved.
The Weir Family
Matterhorn was rescued 6 years
ago. He likes to hang on his human mom like a koala and is very affectionate. He has a very unique voice and personality. He is definitely a momma's boy.
Pedro is the sweetest cat! He was rescued one year ago and has since doubled his weight. He acts more like a dog and has a special bond with our daughter. He puts up with a lot and enjoys playing dress up.
Candi Hannigan
Bunny, whose gray fur is the softest you’ll ever feel, was adopted from the shelter two years ago. She and her brother, John Henry, who was a barn cat when he was adopted by our son five years ago, are great companions for each other. I think they loved me the most when I was recovering from surgery recently. It’s a cat’s dream - Mom lounging around all day with her fur babies! 38
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Rico Suave was rescued 4 years ago as a female kitten named Ariel. "She" later surprised us as a male. In his free time he enjoys playing outside, trying to attack the hamster or destroying the couch. He gets by with his good looks.
CELEBRATE WORLD CAT DAY Volunteer at a local shelter.
The Cherokee Animal Shelter welcomes volunteers to visit its cat room to play with kittens and adult cats. Younger family members can participate in the Read to Me program by reading books out loud to a captive kitty audience. 770-345-7270. www.cherokeega-animals.org.
Donate to a cat charity.
Our monthly feature, Rob’s Rescues (see Page 40), regularly highlights needs in the animal rescue world. Visit Rob’s website for information about donating food and supplies. www.robsrescues.com.
Adopt a cat (or two).
If you’re ready to join the community of cat people, or if you’re already one, why not take the plunge and adopt. The local animal shelter is a great place to start. And remember, cats love company, so adopting in pairs is always a good idea! www.cherokeega-animals.org.
FAMOUS CAT OWNERS Abraham Lincoln
It’s been said that he was the first U.S. president to have cats in the White House, and his wife, Mary Todd, has been quoted as saying, “Cats are his only hobby.”
Mark Twain
The novelist was known by his friends to love cats and rumored to have had up to 19 cats at once. He once said, "If man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat."
Ernest Hemmingway
Famous for owning six-toed cats, his first was a gift from a sea captain. Hemmingway cats, as the polydactyl kittens are known, can still be found in Key West, Florida.
Catherine the Great
Legend has it that this Russian Empress let 300 cats roam the halls of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. That’s a lot of kitty litter!
John Lennon
We remember him for his music, but did you know he was a cat lover? Owning nearly 20 cats during his lifetime, he was fond of naming pairs with combo names such as Salt and Pepper, and Major and Minor. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Rob’s Rescues Last Stop Horse Rescue I interviewed Ms. Joyce Pomeroy of Last Stop Horse Rescue. www.laststophorserescue.com
When and why did you start Last Stop Horse Rescue (LSHR)?
Kiwi the dog.
This dog’s name is Kiwi. She is a 4-year-old white and brown American bulldog. She is a sweet, laid-back dog who is a good communicator. She also is really interested in what is going on around her. She sits well and likes to be stroked on her head.
I started in 2006. I had worked in the medical field, and driven an ambulance for 26 years. I had always taken care of others and when I stopped working I had to start trying to find myself. I got a pony called Emma. She had so many issues, and when I got her she had already been passed through seven homes. I looked at her and told her, “Emma, this is your last stop.” And, that’s how Last Stop Horse Rescue started. I didn’t start off thinking I was going to start a horse rescue, but then Belle came along, who was such an angry horse, and people started hearing about me. I took in horses that had been neglected and abused, and I made a pact with the horses that this would be where all the negatives in their life would end.
Do you only rescue horses?
I am licensed as an equine rescue, but I also rescue people by allowing them to touch and connect with a horse. In March, a newborn cow was found standing over its dead mother trying to nurse, and it was brought to a barn at the rescue. I taught him how to suck from a bottle and did all his feedings. I taught him to walk on a halter. As the time approached for him to go back and be raised as an Angus cow for his purpose, I approached the farmer, and asked if I could buy him and raise him, and allow him to grow and live. The farmer agreed, and Hershey is now part of my life here at LSHR.
When did you start liking horses and what is so special about a horse? Like a lot of little girls, I dreamed of owning a pony, and I have always rescued animals. Horses are majestic, smart animals. There is something unique in each horse, and if you look into a horse’s eyes you see your own soul.
What was the first horse that you rescued?
Emma. She is an Appaloosa pony. I was determined to bring out the best in her and protect her.
What is a story that you love to tell? Rob with Miss Priss the cat, and CCAS volunteer Sue Bauer.
This cat’s name is Miss Priss. She is 7 years old and came to the shelter as an owner surrender. It would be best if she is an only cat. She has pretty eyes and is very sweet. She will be a really good big, fluffy cat for someone. I got the picture with a volunteer at Cherokee County Animal Shelter. Shelters always need volunteers if you are interested. 40
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
I like to talk about Emma because she completely changed my life. In rescuing her, I found that she rescued me, too. There are a lot of people who come to LSHR who need rescuing too.
What do you want the community to know about LSHR and how can they help you?
LSHR is run on a code of high ethics, morality and honesty. It takes a lot to fund and feed these beautiful horses. When I ask the public for help, I like them to come up here and experience what I have here. My focus is always for the horse. The public is welcome to come and meet me, and spend time with the horses and follow our journey on Facebook.
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. Follow Rob at www.robsrescues.com and on Facebook @robsrescues.
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41
Meet the Cast (My Family)
ME
VIOLET
YOGI
— stud dog (duh)
— my younger hound sister
— my three-legged Chih
Sweet, Sweet Revenge and
Doughnuts BY TEDDY THE SPAZ MAN
42
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Remember Mr. Johnson? He’s my nemesis neighbor who’s a little obsessed with me. And, by a little, I mean he lives and breathes to torment me. In fact, one time he even faked his own death so I’d give him mouth to mouth. Blech! So when he creeped around our house this past week, my fur family and I were ready for him!
Here’s Our Story
I was chillaxin’ in my yard when Violet, who had been gnawing on her favorite bone, jumped up with a complete look of horror on her face. Mama Kitty, who had been grooming herself, ran over to see what all the fuss was about. I knew she’d
MAMA KITTY
huahua bro
— my diva cat sister
spotted it, too, ’cause she gasped, then immediately started gagging. With her back hunched, she made that gross sound that only cats do. “Gack! Gack! GAAAAACK!” In a flash, a giant ball of yuck shot from her mouth, followed by a loud thud. The furry slime nailed its intended target, and Mr. Johnson stood in shock. Then he got mad — really mad — as his attempts to clean it off only resulted in spreading it further. I watched with pure delight. Just then, Yogi ran up with a sack that weighed more than he did. With superdog strength, he heaved it over his head and flung it. He smiled up at us, clearly proud that Mr. Johnson now was covered with both Mama Kitty’s fur ball and ooey, gooey syrup. “Could this day get any better?” I thought. Yes, it could, as it turned out, because outta nowhere, Violet grabbed her bone and chucked it. The bee’s nest that she knew was in the rose bush next to Mr. Johnson erupted, and they were on him faster than she-dogs on me. Swatting himself like a wild banshee, he screamed and took off running down the trail where he’d come from, breathlessly panting, “I’ll get you Spaz Man … ” We celebrated that night with maple doughnuts, in his honor, of course. Here’s to Mr. Johnson! And here’s to sweet, sweet revenge! Bahahahahaha!
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Teddy the Spaz Man is a social media dog and not-sohumble Hallmark star living in downtown Woodstock. Facebook/Instagram: @teddythespazman.
Customer Service You Can Count On! TOWNELAKER | August 2019
43
Having a Field Day With Ham Radio
Operators BY MARTIN BUEHRING
Don Coltrane running the Morse code (CW) station.
Amateur radio is alive and well in Cherokee County, and last month it was on display in Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton at what radio enthusiasts call Field Day. The annual event, which dates back to 1933, was formalized by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), and is held in North America the fourth full weekend in June. It evolved from the humble beginnings of the golden age of radio. Field Day was established to showcase the value amateur radio can bring to the government and the public.
Historical Importance
After World War I, the importance of civilian radio operators providing aid in times of emergency, when regular infrastructure is stressed or destroyed, was realized. They were banned from operation during the war; when the war ended, amateur radio flourished and became a serious hobby for many people. Radio operators were nicknamed “hams.� In telegraphy, it referred to an amateur operator who was ham-fisted, i.e., not a professional. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was established in 1934, and regulates all radio communications in the U.S., including amateur radio. Operators must be licensed.
Ready for Emergencies
The Cherokee Amateur Radio Society (CARS) brings together local amateur radio operators for education, training, fellowship, enjoyment and public service. The CARS group is a back-up communications team for the Cherokee County EOC (Emergency Operations Center), in case of an emergency. A tornado easily could wipe out county communications, and cellphone service for days. The team is trained in handling emergency messages, compatible with the methods used by the EOC. This is entirely voluntary work and service.
Field Day
Noah Reed at Field Day making contacts, while Johnathan logs them in the computer.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Field Day is a time to show the public and our served agencies that we are ready to deploy, if needed. During Field Day, we set up multiple, fully functioning shortwave radio stations in a field devoid of infrastructure. We bring all our supplies, including generators, antennas, shelter, food,
water, computers, networking and sophisticated radio equipment. The object is to deploy the equipment successfully, no matter the weather or circumstances, and contact as many other amateur radio stations as possible within a 24-hour period. We use all modes of operation, like voice, data and Morse code (also called CW). The CARS group had all the modes in operation, and made many contacts throughout the U.S., Canada and U.S. territories. We also use the event as an opportunity to serve in other ways. Members of the Scouts BSA, have the opportunity to earn a radio merit badge. They are required to train for several hours on radio technology, then talk on a radio to people outside of their organization. At this year’s Field Day, we hosted 25 boys and girls looking to earn this badge. It is a very fulfilling part of being a radio operator and part of a club that is willing to Scouts at Field Day 2019 working on their radio merit badges. serve in this way. We also encourage those interested in the hobby to try it out, and operate a station under the Amateur radio is a hobby watchful eye of a licensed ham. We call it the GOTA station, that continues to grow each which stands for Get on the Air. Many of the scouts, and a few year. There are more than adults, gave it a try, and had a lot of fun. The youngest member 700,000 licensees in the U.S. of our group is Noah Reed. He passed his first level exam The hobby keeps growing, with (technician class) in February at the age of 8. Both his parents amateur radio satellites, moon bounce, extended range drones, are hams and highly support and encourage him. and people in the “maker” community interested in learning We had about 28 of our participating members making about electronics and wireless technology. We have engaged contacts to accumulate points for our club. When the event was with schools and offered to demonstrate ameteur radio over, we reported our results to the ARRL, which will tabulate capabilities as part of STEM education. points for clubs across the U.S. and Canada. Results will be published in a future issue of the league’s magazine, called QST. Martin Buehring is the Cherokee County Amateur Radio Society Club Last year, we did very well and were the No. 2 club in Georgia for president. His call sign is KB4MG. our category.
CARS Club Meets: 10 a.m.-noon on the second Saturday of the month. Location: William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock.
Agenda: A presentation is made on a technical topic. License
testings are done at 2 p.m. on meeting days. Who can come? Anyone interested in amateur radio. For more information: www.wx4car.org
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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How to Pay for Assisted Living BY SHELLEY WINTER
A question often asked about assisted living is, “How do I pay for this?” Unfortunately, Medicare and Medicaid do not pay for assisted living in Georgia. The typical way to pay for assisted living is Social Security income and/or retirement pension. Savings from the sale of a home/property or investments is usually needed. Some people purchase long-term care insurance while eligible. Long-term care (LTC) policies have different terms on how they pay and how much they pay. Some policies are written for in-home care or facility-only, but generally can be used in an assisted-living community. Most LTC policies require the need for at least two ADLs (activities of daily living), such as bathing, eating, dressing, transferring from bed to chair, and toileting. LTC insurance benefits can range from $1,500 to more than $9,000 per month. There is financial assistance for veterans and their spouses called the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit. Veterans who served during wartime, and their spouses, may meet the criteria to receive a benefit of $1,209/ month for the spouse, $1,880/month for the veteran and $2,230/month for a married veteran. A veteran must have served at least 90 days on active duty and/or at
least one day during wartime. Again, you need assistance with at least two ADLs to qualify. Along with your military discharge papers, you will need a letter from your doctor stating you are appropriate for assisted living. If the senior and their family needs assistance, while waiting on the sale of a home or the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit to be approved, there are bridge loans with small monthly payments just for senior living care. Lastly, you also can consider cashing out a life insurance policy or getting an annuity. In 2019, the national average monthly cost of assisted living is $4,000, while dementia care costs around $5,200. Paying for assisted living can be draining on one’s personal income and savings. Overall, it is much more affordable than 24/7 at-home care or private pay in a skilled nursing facility. Don’t get overwhelmed. Create a balance sheet and consider all the costs of living at home versus in a senior living community.
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.
Hearing Screenings for Newborns BY DR. SARAH LICHT
Did you know that a newborn infant, even at one day old, can have a hearing screening? There are different ways to evaluate patients’ hearing status, from infants to adults, without having them raise their hand when they hear the beep. However, newborn screenings have not always been a standard of care. In 1988, former Surgeon General Charles Everett Koop raised the challenge of implementing hearing screenings to help detect at least 90% of the hearing loss in children by the year 2000. Fast-forward to 2000, when the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) and the American Academy of Pediatrics created guidelines to be followed to ensure that no child’s hearing loss goes undetected. Though different versions of the guidelines have been published, there is an overarching timeline:
Screening a newborn typically involves two tests. One is called otoacoustic emissions (OAEs for short). This test emits a signal into the ear, which causes the hair cells in your inner ear to vibrate; this vibration generates an echo that is sent out to the ear canal and measured by the tester. The second test is called auditory brainstem response (ABR, which involves placing electrodes on the patient’s head/neck. Sounds are played through the ear and the tester can track brain waves in response to sound. It is very important to catch hearing loss as early as possible and intervene appropriately. The tools we have aid in the early identification of hearing loss and proper intervention. The objective tests listed above often are used in conjunction with behavioral tests. So, before your child or grandchild leaves the hospital, make sure they have their hearing screened.
• Universal newborn hearing screening. • Detection of hearing loss before three months old. • Intervention with hearing loss starting by the age of six months (yes, that means six-month-olds can wear hearing aids). 46
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016.
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.
NorthsideCherokeePediatrics.com
Holly Springs 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220 Holly Springs, GA 30115
678-388-5485 Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189
Nort
770-852-7720 Exit 11 (Sixes Road)
HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE LAKE
J
TOWNELAKER | August 2019 oh ns o
Ros wel l Rd .
Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home
47
Celebrates 20 Years and a New Expansion Dan and Kristin Ribley are celebrating the 20-year anniversary of Ribley Family Chiropractic this month. The doctors have big plans for fun activities and giveaways throughout August; they are eager to show their appreciation to the community that has supported them throughout the years. “We opened our office in Towne Lake because we loved the family feel of the community, and it was where we wanted to live and raise our family,” Dr. Kristin said. “We feel incredibly blessed, and believe the key to our success is our amazing staff, and the doctors in our practice who have loving hearts and a passion to serve.” Although the two-decade mark is a special milestone, celebrating is a common occurrence at the Towne Lake practice. Patients’ birthdays are celebrated with balloons. The staff keeps a big bowl of fruit on the counter for patients to enjoy. “Over-the-top” gift baskets celebrate occasions like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, the arrival of summer, Valentine’s Day, etc. “The staff is often complimented for being friendly, providing excellent customer service, and attention to detail surrounding holidays and special occasions,” Dr. Kristin said. “We love living and working in Towne Lake.”
THE RIBLEY DIFFERENCE
RIBLEY FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC
CHIROPRACTIC CARE Eight chiropractic practices. Twelve chiropractors. Fifteen staff members. One location. Ribley Chiropractic is a hub where individual chiropractors have set up their practices, offering many specialties under one roof. Relief for more than just back or neck pain can be found there, and not just 9-to-5. The office is open six days a week, with evening
Dr. Val Delagarza and Dr. Frank Noble. 48
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
and Saturd available. “We me our patien of male an each with and adjusti it’s specia pediatrics adjusting,” Family w available t
PHOTO BY J. KING IMAGES
MASSAGE THERAPY
day appointments
eet the needs of nts by offering a mix nd female doctors, h a different specialty ting style, whether alizing in nutrition, s, sports or low-force ,” Dr. Kristin said. wellness plans are to help patients of
and increasing blood circulation for more successful chiropractic adjustments. It also can simply be a means of relaxation. Techniques range from deep tissue to the more relaxing Swedish massage. Issues like tension from stress, sports injuries, migraines or headaches, and low back pain, as well as the strains of pregnancy, can benefit from massage.
PHOTO BY KIM BATES
Another reason for celebration is the new space opening this fall, dedicated to massage services. The Ribleys are transforming the former KFC building next door into The Retreat, a massage experience. The nine massage therapists at Ribley will have “a larger, more beautiful and calming
space to provide the same exceptional massages our patients are accustomed to. Our patients can expect the same great service and experience, with a few more amenities that we can’t wait to reveal,” Dr. Kristin said. Renovations should be complete by the end of August, with the transition taking place this fall. Massage therapy promotes healing by allowing muscles to relax
A Healing Combination all ages maintain a healthy balance. While most people think you should come to a chiropractor only when you have problems, Dr. Kristin said it’s important to remember that maintaining spinal wellbeing can keep your body healthy and your immune system functioning stronger, helping families combat chronic colds and other illnesses. Auto accident victims often seek relief at Ribley Chiropractic. “We have relationships with attorneys who can work with the patient to support them through the legal process while we take great care to help them get out of pain and functioning at optimal performance,” Dr. Kristin said. The range of treatment options is a unique asset of the practice, which was started by the Ribleys in 1999. Ten years ago, they moved to their current location, a large office facility on Towne Lake Parkway, at the entrance to the Kroger shopping center.
No one has to convince Garrett of the benefits of chiropractic and massage therapy. “One of the most rewarding things about what we do is the abundance of life-changing stories from people who get relief from so many different kinds of pain and health issues. One the most recent testimonials was from a patient, named Garrett, who came to us with TMJ,” Dr. Kristin said. “He had tried everything to help his pain, and nothing worked. As a last resort, he tried chiropractic adjustments and massages, not really hopeful that it would work. It ended up helping him tremendously. He wrote us a nice thank you card with a long letter saying that we had given him his life back. His marriage and his relationship with his young son, as well as his job, were suffering due to the debilitating pain. He was shocked that chiropractic not only lessened his pain, but eliminated it entirely. He said he would have come in sooner had he known.”
2453 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock GA 30189 (770) 592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
2019
READERS’
CHOICE Award
Hours 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Monday –Friday 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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The Symptoms and Risks of a Hernia
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While helping a friend move into his new apartment, you bend to pick up a box, and you feel a pop with pressure at your groin. Your first thought: “I pulled a muscle.” But, when you stand, you notice a bulge at your groin. You push it in, and it goes away. Most likely, you have a hernia. A hernia is a hole or weakness in the fascia (the barrier that makes sure your insides stay on the inside) of your abdominal wall, through which internal tissue or organs may protrude. Hernias are common, occurring more often in men than women, and can happen for many reasons: heavy lifting, obesity, smoking and pregnancy. Twenty five percent of men will develop an inguinal hernia during their lifetime. Hernia symptoms are fairly easy to identify, but often don’t include pain, which causes some to skip medical attention. If you notice a bulge, tenderness or pain, make an appointment with your doctor. Some hernias are emergencies. My primary concern is the possibility that your intestines will protrude through the hole in your abdomen and become stuck. If that happens, the blood supply to your intestines could be restricted. Without quick resolution, your intestines can die, which could lead to critical illness or death. To minimize serious risks and avoid recurrences, I recommend an elective procedure to repair the hernia. Options include several surgical techniques: open (traditional surgery), laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted surgery. Despite its name, robotic technology does not put a robot in control of your surgery. The system cannot make decisions or operate on its own; the surgeon is in complete control. It’s important to seek an experienced robotic surgeon and hospital surgical team. The robot translates the surgeon’s real-time hand movements precisely to the surgical instruments inserted through the patient’s abdomen. The minimally invasive operation is completed through a few small incisions for the tools and a small camera, which allows the surgeon to see a full-color, magnified, 3-D image of the surgical site. The procedure typically is performed outpatient, requiring no overnight stay. Patients report having less pain after the procedure compared with other procedures, and, typically, they return to normal activity sooner. Studies show that the reoccurrence of a hernia and associated complications are less likely after robotic surgery.
Dr. Madhavi Jordan is a board-certified surgeon with Northside Hospital Cherokee and Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates in Canton. ncsurgicalassociates.com.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Your Mother Was Wrong BY LEAH GOODSON-GERAMI, DO, FACOOG
Adrian’s story is a common one. She is one of hundreds of women looking for relief from pelvic pain. “Period pain is a normal part of being a woman,” her mother told her when Adrian reached adolescence and the pain first began. Adrian believed it. Throughout her teens, she experienced intense pain monthly around her pelvic area. When she entered her 20s, she missed work for a day or two every month because the pain was so bad. She didn’t make a big deal about it because she truly believed her pain was normal. Pelvic pain is a complicated condition, and can come from the reproductive organs, the urinary tract or bowel. A woman might have more than one condition, each with a different cause.
Causes of pelvic pain • • • • • • •
Endometriosis Pelvic inflammatory disease Irritable bowel syndrome Urinary tract infection Pelvic support problems Uterine fibroids Factors such as past trauma or sexual abuse
Proper description is key
Part of successful treatment is describing your pain and answering questions that help your gynecologist understand your health history. • When and where does the pain happen? • How long does the pain last? • Is the pain related to your menstrual cycle, urination or sexual activity? • What does the pain feel like (sharp or dull)? • What were the circumstances when the pain began?
A history of sexual abuse also can lead to symptoms of pelvic pain, whether from physical damage or emotional trauma.
Tools for diagnosis • • • • • • •
Blood test Pregnancy test Urinalysis Ultrasound CT Scan MRI (non-invasive procedure) Laparoscopy
Potential treatments • • • • • •
Antibiotics Anti-inflammatory and/or pain medicines Relaxation exercises Oral contraceptives Surgery Physical therapy
Ultimately, Adrian was diagnosed with endometriosis. She was genuinely surprised at the range of treatment options available to her, and chose to try birth control pills as a first step. After treatment, Adrian was happy to report that the “normal” pain she had lived with all her life was gone.
Dr. Goodson-Gerami (known to her patients as Dr. G-G) recently joined the Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists team. She has practiced medicine since 2014, and is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology.
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Understanding the Cost of New Flooring BY ELISABETH STUBBS
One of the first steps in shopping for new flooring is deciding what type of product you should consider. Not the style or the color. Not the texture or finish. Not even what price range. The very basic starting point is knowing what kind of flooring you want. Do you want soft carpet for your family room, or super durable porcelain tile, or shiny elegant hardwood floors? Sometimes, knowing the price of different flooring options makes the choice easier. There is a wide range of prices, based on the type of floor you select. For example, let's imagine you have a 400-square-foot family room that is currently carpeted, and you have a wooden subfloor (i.e. over a basement or crawl space). Here is the average cost, for various types of flooring, that you could expect to pay if you were to choose a medium-priced product, and have it professionally installed.
• Carpet - $2,000 • Laminate - $2,800 • Luxury vinyl plank - $3,200 • Hardwoods 3/4" - $4,000 • Tile - $6,000 The type of flooring you choose makes a big difference on your budget. Of course, there are many other things to consider. For instance, the average person replaces their carpet every nine years. So, if you live in your home for 20 years, you will replace your carpet at least once, maybe twice. But, you will almost certainly have the same wood floor for 20 years. Over time, the higher priced options tend to pay for themselves, because of the longevity of the product. However, this doesn't necessarily make you feel better when you write the initial check. Take the time to research different flooring options, and understand the pros and cons of each one. This way you can truly find the perfect flooring choice for your home and wallet.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
1847 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062
770-565-3808
www.enhancefloors.com Enhance Floors located in the Restaurant Depot Shopping Center Big Chicken
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Roswell Rd
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fluids. 1. Check Make sure fluids are properly filled, including
the oil and windshield wiper, brake and power steering fluids.
tires for signs of wear. 2. Check Check tires for proper air pressure, and see if the
Tips to
treads are worn to the brim. Also think if you’ve noticed any changes in the way your car drives.
Prepare Your Vehicle For College
a professional inspection. 3. Get Even if your fluids and tires get an A+, you should
take your vehicle for a check-up. A professional can check an array of important components, including the battery, brakes, wiper blades and more.
the interior. 4. Organize While cramming for tests and learning new subjects,
you’ll want the rest of your life as organized as possible. Clear out your glove box – use it to store your insurance card (so you always know where it is). Make sure your car has a spare tire, first-aid kit, flashlight and jumper cables.
BY DEIDRE PARKER
College is the start of an exciting journey, filled with evolving knowledge and limitless opportunities. As with many beginnings, it also can be an overwhelming journey that requires extensive preparation. Classes scheduled? Check! Books purchased? Check. Vehicle ready? Wait, what? Yes, ensuring your car’s maintenance is up-to-date will extend the life of your vehicle during college and provide peace of mind - for you and your parents. Think of it this way: You don’t want any auto-related surprises when running five minutes late to an important exam. If you, or your child, are college-bound, make a note of these five tips.
your car-care knowledge. 5. Refresh Having a spare tire is great – but you need to be able
to use it. Make sure you know how to change a flat, who to call in an emergency, and how often regular maintenance is due on your vehicle.
Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Keep Your Back Healthy for Back to School BY AMBER YORK, DC
It’s back-to-school season. Whether you are sending your little one to preschool, or dropping your young adult off at college, here are a few tips to help keep your family’s spines healthy this school year.
Choose a proper backpack and wear it right.
A good backpack is light, snug and comfortable to wear. It should be made of vinyl or canvas, with wide padded shoulder straps and a waist strap. For the best, and proper support, all straps should be worn whenever in use, and adjusted so the pack is snug against the back. Don’t let it drape over your shoulder or hang from your back. Make sure the contents are evenly distributed, with the largest and heaviest items closest to your body.
Warm up before exercising.
Keep in mind, students who are returning to sports after summer break need to take time to let their bodies adjust. Start slowly, and encourage and allow your kids 15-20 minutes to warm up before playing. Warm-ups should consist of simple motions that simulate the sport being played, while increasing the heart rate and stretching soft tissue.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Lift with your legs.
If you are moving older kids into a new dorm or apartment, packing, lifting and climbing stairs can cause a flare-up of low back discomfort. Don’t overload boxes, and pack them so the contents will not shift. Make sure to use your body to its advantage. Lift with your legs, face your work, and stand so your nose, hips and toes are facing forward. Keep all objects as close to your body as possible, and bend at the hips and knees.
Focus on good posture.
Be sure to promote proper posture to your children when they are studying and sitting in class. While reading books, or working on a computer, use a book or monitor stand, so materials are at eye level. This will reduce the amount of strain on the neck and shoulders. While in class, sit with proper posture, shoulders back, chin tucked and a “C” curve in your low back. Avoid slumping, and make use of breaks by standing up, stretching and walking.
Dr. Amber York is a Life University graduate specializing in low force adjusting at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic.
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Around & About AUGUST
2-17 a unique experience as participants team up
Discover WDSTK Scavenger Hunt provides
to gather photographic evidence of their journey through 100 different venues in Woodstock. Participants will have two weeks to complete as many of the tasks or challenges that they can out of a list of 100. The event is free and no advanced registration is required. Teams will be competing to win a $100 Downtown Dollars Gift Certificate and many great prizes donated by Woodstock businesses. Whether you live in Woodstock, are visiting Woodstock, or work in Woodstock, you are welcome to take part in this fun community activity that will help you get to know the Woodstock area better.
Reverend Hylton will perform 7-9 p.m. at the Elm 15 Street Event Green, ending this season’s WDSTK Roots
Music Nights series. www.visitwoodstockga.com.
Rockstock in Woodstock, sponsored by Atlanta’s 17 Rock Station 100.5 at the Northside Cherokee
Amphitheater and The Park at City Center. The festival will feature: tribute bands paying homage to the original Woodstock artists; a Kidz Zone with a jump house; food trucks; sponsor booths; pop up shops, and beer, wine and spirit service throughout the day. For more details, visit www. freshtix.com/events/rockstock-in-woodstock.
Friday Night Live takes place 6-9 p.m. with shops 2 staying open late, and live music and events scattered throughout the city. www.visitwoodstockga.com.
Skipper Grace is the band set to perform at the Canton Main Street First Friday event, 6-9 p.m., downtown Canton. Includes food vendors, a car show and live music. www.cantonga.gov. in the Park 8-9 a.m at the Northside 3 AMPED Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road,
Woodstock. Free monthly fitness series presented by Woodstock Parks and Recreation and a monthly community partner. All workouts are fitness friendly (meaning you don’t have to be super fit to participate).
Night Out, 6-9 pm the Park at City Center, 101 6 National Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Sponsored by Woodstock City Police, there will be public safety equipment activities for all ages, K9 demonstrations, and food and drinks courtesy of national corporate sponsor, Target.
Etowah Eagles Golf Classic begins with a shotgun 9 start at 1:30 p.m. at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Proceeds benefit the high school’s basketball program. etowaheaglesbasketball@gmail.com.
10 benefit for Empower Cherokee, will include singleWoodstock Yard Olympics, an 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
elimination categories: Kan Jam, Bucket Beer Pong, Corn Hole, Giant Jenga. Space is limited; tickets available at www. woodstockjwc.org.
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Christianity and Your Constitution is a DVD-
based, 11-week class offered at First Baptist Woodstock. Meets at 6:15 p.m. The class is free, no registration requirement. An optional book can be purchased for $10. Call 770-591-2508 for classroom location. www.fbcw.org.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Karen Stubbs will speak at Hickory Flat UMC.
Renew Women’s Conference is 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. Keynote speaker is Karen Stubbs, founder of Birds on a Wire, a ministry for moms. www.hickoryflat.org/renew. Canton Duck Race. Thousands of rubber ducks will be
launched into the Etowah River. Watch them race to the foot bridge that connects Etowah River Park to Heritage Park. The race starts at 6 p.m., and will benefit 10 Canton charities. The prizes for first, second, and third place ducks are $1,000, $500 and $250. The first silver duck to cross the finish line will win $2,000! Buy your ducks at https://canton-duck-race.square.site.
Georgia Wake Series returns to Acworth Beach at Cauble
Park. Kicking off the third weekend of the series, Stop Seven returns to Acworth for the boat event of the season. The competition begins at 9 p.m. For more information, visit www.gawakeseries.com. The UGA Master Gardener Extension volunteers of Cherokee County present Fall Vegetable Gardening at 10:30 a.m. at Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway. Learn to extend your garden season to enjoy fresh vegetables into the holidays. To register, visit www.cherokeemastergardenersinc.wildapricot.org, call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.
FARMERS MARKETS Ball Ground
18 season, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Chapel at Canton First The Cherokee Chorale will hold auditions for its 32nd
United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. Interested singers do not need to prepare an audition piece. They will be asked to demonstrate their vocal range and pitch-matching ability, and to sight-read a short musical selection. Tenors, baritones, and basses are especially encouraged to audition. For more details, call 614-302-0160 or visit www.cherokeechorale.org.
20 at 8 a.m. at the Cherokee County Senior Center, 1001 Volunteer Aging Council meeting takes place
Univeter Road, Canton. Contact Deanna Gale at 678-230-4067 or dlgale@cherokeega.com.
History Program of the Cherokee Historical Society presents
an evening with John Brooke, at 7 p.m. at the Historic Rock Barn, 658 Marietta Highway, Canton. Free and open to the public. 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org.
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Empower Cherokee Gala is 6-10 p.m. Suite Six
Venue, 147 Reinhardt College Parkway in Canton. The organization helps individuals with disabilities strive for more relationships through employment, volunteering, social activities and skill development. Contact Candace Walker for ticket/ sponsorship purchase. Candace.Walker@empowercherokee.org. www.empowercherokee.org.
Ground Concert in the Park begins at 7 p.m., 24 Ball featuring the Vintage Vixens. On Sept. 21, T James Band
performs. www.cityofballground.com.
8 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays, in the courtyard in front of Barrel House Coffee, 275 Gilmer Ferry Road.
Woodstock Farm Fresh
8:30 a.m.-noon, every Saturday through October. Market Street, downtown Woodstock. 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday at Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm St.
Canton Farmers
9 a.m.-1 p.m, every Saturday through October. Located in Cannon Park, downtown Canton, rain or shine.
River Church
2-6 p.m, Tuesdays through October. 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, 30114.
Waleska
9 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursdays through Nov. 1. Heritage Fellowship Baptist Church, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska.
CHEROKEE REC. AND PARKS Aug. 1
Youth basketball registration.
Aug. 1, 8, 22, 29
SEPTEMBER Invasion Registration 10 a.m.-5p.m., Woodstock 5 Scarecrow Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main St., Woodstock. in the Park 8-9 a.m at the Northside Cherokee 7 AMPED Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Free monthly fitness series presented by Woodstock Parks and Recreation and a monthly community partner. All workouts are fitness friendly (meaning you don’t have to be super fit to participate).
16 County’s Volunteer Aging Council, which provides assistance
Tee Off Fore VAC is a golf tournament to support Cherokee
to low income senior citizens and elderly veterans. Registration is 9 a.m., with tee off at 11 a.m. at The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm. Contact Gina Pendley at 706-273-9933 or De Gale at 678-230-4067.
28-29 festival
The 35th annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts , presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. The juried show features more than 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, entertainers, children’s activities and concessions. Admission for adults and children 11 and older is a $5 donation. www.serviceleague.net.
Archery Come & Try Days, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the recreation center. $10 per class, pre-registration required. All ages.
Through Aug. 2
Cherokee youth softball registration.
Through Aug. 9
Cherokee youth lacrosse registration.
Aug. 16, 30
Parent’s Night Out at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 5:30-10 p.m. $15 per child, early registration. $20 per child, late registration. Ages 5 and older.
Aug. 23
Night Hike begins at 7:30 p.m. at Garland Mountain. Cost: $15. All ages.
Aug. 24
Red Cross babysitting class is planned for 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for ages 11-15. Cost: $55
Aug. 26
Registration begins for adult fall/winter basketball. $600 per team. Register through Oct. 4. League – Monday Open. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Around & About SEPTEMBER will be teaching 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 28 atBethFirstMoore Baptist Church Woodstock, worship with
Travis Cottrell. www.lifeway.com/LivingProof. Registration is available for leadership training, with YouLead on Sept. 27 (www.lifeway.com/youlead). 800-254-2022.
OCTOBER
1 benefiting Shop With a Hero. Sponsored by the Fourth annual Charity Golf Tournament
Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, this year’s event will be held at The Club at Bradshaw Farms. Foursomes and sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Greg Stepp, 770-592-600 Ext. 1134 or gstepp@woodstockga.gov.
5 a Peachtree qualifier, begins with a Fun Run at 7:30 Next Step Ministries’ 2019 Run, Walk or Roll 5K,
a.m., 5K at 8 a.m. Awards ceremony starts at 9:10 a.m. Teams get a $5 per runner discount. Register in advance at www.nextstepministries.net.
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DOWNTOWN WDSTK Summer Concert Series
7:30 p.m., Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater www.woodstockconcertseries.com
Aug. 10: Little River Band Sept. 14: The Molly Ringwalds
(World’s Greatest ’80s Experience)
Lantern Series
Elm Street Cultural Arts Center’s Event Green, 113 Elm St. 7:30 p.m., www.elmstreetarts.org/lantern-series.
Aug. 17: The Lone Bellow,
alt indie country, Nashville Sept. 7: Soulsha, funk-inspired, Boston Oct. 5: Gina Furtado Project, bluegrass
Elm Street Theater www.elmstreetarts.org
Aug. 2: iThink Improv Troupe Show at 8 p.m.
Tickle your funny bone and spend your Friday night with an Improv Comedy show fit for the entire family.
The date for the sixth annual Zombie Fest has been announced, and the location will be revealed soon. Put this fundraiser for Cherokee FOCUS on your calendar and watch for details. www. georgiazombiefest.com. www.cherokeefocus.org.
Aug. 3: “Insert Story Here” at 7 p.m. Original
Blankets Creek 3- and 6-Hour Mountain Bike Race at
Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic)”. Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m.,
Blankets Creek Trails in Canton. Shirt and pint glass for all pre-registered riders. Solo, two or three-person teams. Fundraiser for SORBA Woodstock.
International 12 -13 FoodWoodstock Festival The
, hosted by Saint Elizabeth Orthodox Church on East Cherokee Drive, is 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday. The event includes live music and dancing, art, craft and gift vendors, and martial arts demonstrations. www. woodstockinternationalfoodfestival.com.
NOVEMBER Mill Dirty Duathlon and 3.3 mile trail run 9 Rope at Rope Mill Park in Woodstock. Off-road duathlon
with 5.5 mile mountain bike/3.3 mile trail run/5.5 mile mountain bike. Shirt and coffee mug for pre-registered participants. Solo, two and three-person team divisions for the duathlon. Fundraiser for SORBA Woodstock.
stories submitted by community members via the Sequoyah Regional Library System will be brought to life on stage. No charge.
Aug. 16 - Sept. 1: “Puffs (or 7 Increasingly
Sunday shows (and Aug. 24) at 2:30 p.m. No show on Aug. 25. Opening night reception will follow the Aug. 16 show. American Sign Language--interpreted show on Sept. 1st. Rated PG-13.
ONGOING INFluence: Meets the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues or services offered that affect the community. www.inwdstk.org.
Small Town Creatives (STC): STC is for
creative professionals (designers and makers), and alternates between a morning event and an evening event every other month. The morning events are the third Friday and the evening events are the fourth Tuesday. www.inwdstk.org.
YPOW AM: Young Professionals of Woods1tock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Copper Coin. www.inwdstk.org. 60
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Three Convenient Locations: We are a full-service vascular surgery and endovascular therapy practice that specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins and arteries. Our compassionate, board-certified physicians, Dr. Catalin Harbuzariu, Dr. Edward Kang, Dr. Siddharth Patel, and Dr. Brooks Whitney bring years of experience working at some of the leading institutions in the field, and offer minimally-invasive, state-ofthe-art procedures to treat the entire scope of vascular diseases, from the simplest to the most complex. We offer three convenient locations to serve the communities throughout Greater Atlanta and North Georgia. We offer state-of-the-art care in providing the full-spectrum of vascular and endovascular services for:
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61
How We Keep Cherokee County Taxes Low BY HARRY JOHNSTON
It’s property tax time in Cherokee County, as we prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. The board of commissioners (BOC) sets the tax rates for county maintenance and operations (M&O), the fire tax, and the parks bond tax. Property taxes make up about half the county’s total revenues. Other taxes, grants, fees and fines contribute almost as much. The board of education separately sets the rate for school taxes and controls those funds. Last year’s BOC-controlled property tax rates were the 33rd lowest out of 159 counties in Georgia. That’s good, but it gets even better. We’re one of three counties in Georgia that doesn’t have a local option sales tax to directly drive down property tax rates. So, on a combined property-plus-sales-tax basis, we’re actually the fifth lowest in Georgia. Practically rock-bottom! By the time you read it this, we’ll have set the tax rates for this year. We plan on a full rollback of the county M&O rate and the parks bond rate, and leaving the fire tax rate unchanged. A full rollback means we reduce the tax rate by enough to fully offset the average increase in net assessed values for existing properties. It means the average existing property pays no more than in the previous year. In the 18 years since I was first elected (including my recent four-year break), the BOC has fully rolled back the county M&O rate in all but three years, the fire tax in most years, and the parks bond tax every year. That’s what has kept our overall taxes so low.
So, what does this mean to our tax bills, when we all know property values are rising? On average, market value assessments are up roughly 6% this year. But, in Cherokee, for county M&O tax purposes, a floating homestead exemption freezes net tax valuations for most homeowners, for as long as we own our homes. Their net values for county M&O tax don’t go up at all. Those properties make up about half the county’s tax base, so the overall net tax digest for existing properties only increased about 3%. The rollback rates are calculated to offset that 3% average increase in net valuation. Excluding school tax, the M&O tax makes up at least 50% of our tax bills, so tax-frozen homeowners should see at least a 1.5% reduction in overall nonschool taxes. Unfortunately, nonhomestead properties will see an average increase of about 4%. Those properties have to cover the homeowner tax decrease and inflationary increases in county operating costs. Where do county property tax dollars go? About 80% goes to public safety and court system operations. The remaining 20% goes to everything else. I’m interested in your thoughts. Please email me at hjohnston@ cherokeega.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
Investment inaction is played out in many ways, often silently, invisibly and with potential consequences to an individual’s future financial security. Indecision can lead to no decision. Let’s review some of the forms this takes. Your workplace retirement plan. The worst nondecision is the failure to enroll. Not only do nonparticipants sacrifice one of the best ways to save for their eventual retirement, but they also forfeit the money from any matching contributions their employer may offer. Not participating may be one of the most costly nondecisions one can make. The other way individuals let indecision get the best of them is by not selecting the investments for the contributions they make to the workplace retirement plan. When a participant fails to make an investment selection, the plan may have provisions for automatically investing that money. And that investment selection may not be consistent with the individual’s time horizon, risk tolerance and goals. Distributions from workplace retirement plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 70½, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. The 10% early withdrawal penalty may be avoided in the event of death or disability.1 Nonretirement plan investments. For homeowners, stuff seems to accumulate over time. The same may be true for investors. Some buy investments based on articles they have read, or on a recommendation from a family member. Others may have investments held in a previous employer’s workplace retirement plan. Over time, they can end up with a collection of investments that may have no connection to their investment objectives. Because
the markets are dynamic, an investment that may have made good sense yesterday might no longer make sense today. By periodically reviewing what they own, investors can determine whether their portfolio reflects their current investment objectives. If they find discrepancies, they are able to make changes that could affect their financial future positively. Whatever your situation, your retirement investments require careful attention and benefit from deliberate, thoughtful decisionmaking. Your retired self one day will be grateful that you invested the necessary time to make wise decisions today. 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. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. 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 a 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. Citation: 1 - https://theweek.com/articles/818267/good-bad-401krollovers [1/17/18]
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 2019
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Persistence Pays, through Flat Tires and More BY BILL RATLIFF
My wife and I have always believed that getting away overnight together, without children, in-laws or others, is essential. In the beginning of our marriage, we had no money for a hotel, so we bought a tent and went camping. We ended up with many stories, including episodes with bears and thunderstorms, that are now fun to tell our grandchildren. In the middle years of married life, we asked our parents to watch the children and took the dog to a pet motel. Now, in our later years, we have family members living with us who need assistance. We are fortunate to have some wonderful caregivers who provide us the opportunity to get away without worry. Recently, we made a plan to go on a mini-vacation. Two days before leaving, one of our live-in loved ones was having some health issues, which fortunately resolved. An hour before we left, phone calls came with unexpected business that needed attention. We finally packed, and stopped by the bank on our way out of town. While there, we hit a nail and blew a tire on our newly purchased vehicle. We called AAA, only to discover our membership had lapsed. We discovered our insurance covered roadside assistance, but the website wouldn’t work and we gave up. I decided to change the tire myself in the 90 degree heat. Since it was a new car, there were challenges to finding
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
everything we needed. My wife read the manual to me while I changed it. From there, we drove back home, changed shirts and cars, and started out once more. The good news is we reached our destination, and were able to relax and decompress. We were tempted to give up and just go home. Someone said that perhaps it was not in the cards for us to get away, but we believed God was calling us to persistence to enrich our marriage and our relationship with him. Colossians 1:10-11 reflects our approach to this experience: ”that you may walk worthily with the Lord … strengthened with all power, according to the might of His glory for all endurance, with perseverance and joy.”
Date Your Mate
Take your mate to a hobby store. Purchase two canvases and supplies needed for a painting experience. Find a picture, a nature scene or something to paint that brings you joy. Have fun creating your canvases together.
Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Unexpected Adventures BY ANN LITREL
We strap on our helmets and sign the waivers. Two pages of fine print list the ways we can be hurt, crippled or drowned while whitewater rafting on the world-class rapids of the Chattooga River. Three friends, Amy, Celeste and Yasmin, have joined me for this adventure. We’re here because the Chattooga made the bucket list of 35 Georgia Natural Wonders I’m painting on a three-year project. The manager of the rafting outfitter has been kind enough to arrange one of his best guides for us. He’ll pull us aside for photos at the river’s most scenic spots. We line up for the safety talk. Our guide, Brandon, appears to be approximately the age of my youngest son. He instructs us how to float — feet first — if we fall out of the raft. That way, he explains, we won’t smash our heads on a rock. I wonder if the others are thinking what I am: “WHY did I think this was a good idea?”
Ann and her friends rely on their guide to help them navigate the rapids. 66
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
“With all the rains we’ve had,” Brandon continues, “we’re in for a treat. The water is very high in Section III, and we’ll see some world-class rapids and beautiful waterfalls. It ends with an amazing run, Bull Sluice. We won’t know if we can take it until we get closer. Normally, we only take more experienced rafters.” The girls and I look at each other, and raise our eyebrows. “It’s cloudy today,” says Brandon, “but I think this is when the river is at its best, when it’s all gray and misty like this morning. Then you can see why the Chattooga is special – why it’s called a temperate rainforest.” We climb into the raft. Brandon pushes off and jumps in. The waters are turbulent, swollen with recent rains, and we are swept away on its powerful current. Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, the Chattooga is protected from human development for miles and miles. For the next six hours, we are transported into untouched wilderness. Giant rocks loom out of the water, evoking fallen monuments, or the remains of ancient civilizations. Birds cry unseen from trees that line the river like a wall of green. Turning one bend, we are surprised by a high waterfall tumbling down the right bank, its lacy fingers running down to the river. Everywhere around us, the voice of the river, wild and tumultuous, follows us on our journey. Periodically, the peace is broken by runs of rapids. These moments are exciting, tense. “Get down,” Brandon says, and we slide to the bottom of the raft. This minimizes the chances of flipping. If we fall out, we know to keep our feet from dangling down as we swim. The chance of getting a foot entrapped in a rock and being submerged by the current is real. As we approach Bull Sluice, Brandon steers our raft to shore and confers with other guides gathered there with their groups. “We won’t be taking Bull Sluice today, “ he announces. “It’s too wild. But we can watch a more advanced group take it.” I am both relieved and strangely disappointed. We climb out of the raft and scramble to the highest rock to watch the more experienced rafters take Bull Sluice. The river explodes in white spray, crashing into a narrow gap between large rocks, thrusting the boat like a toy into the churning waters below. The rain clouds open up. We are soaked and exhilarated, filled with wonder at the Chattooga’s power and the beauty of this wild rainforest. And watching the explosion that is Bull Sluice, we agree that we are already feeling the loss of this wild and beautiful place. And we vow to come back, to meet Bull Sluice another day.
Ann Litrel is an artist, writer and certified Master Naturalist. She works in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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10
Ways to Be a Courteous Boater BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS
Allatoona Lake is one of the busiest U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes in the nation; an estimated 6.8 million people visited in 2018. With a lake that busy, there always are going to be problems with overcrowding and delays in certain areas. Follow these 10 unofficial rules to help you be a more courteous boater, and to help speed up your time at the ramps.
The ramp courtesy dock at Galts Ferry.
1.
Know how to handle your equipment before you get to the lake. There will be people new to
boating who will need extra time when launching a boat. However, launching for the first time on a busy Sunday afternoon in June at Allatoona Lake, is not a good idea. You should make a point to become more familiar with your boat during the week or at less busy locations.
2.
Be prepared before you approach the ramp.
There are many things that need to be checked before launching your boat. Please move to the side if you are not prepared, and let others go around you. Stopping at the top or bottom of the ramp to check your boat and unload is never a good idea, and sometimes can drastically delay other boaters who are in line. Always unload away from the launch area.
3.
Do not waste time once you have launched your boat. Pull your vehicle and trailer out, and let
4.
Keep family members, who are not part of the launching effort, inside the vehicle. There have
the next boater continue. This is not the time to have a long conversation with the boater in the next lane about how the fishing is, or where the best place to go tubing is located.
been many near misses when someone is backing a trailer down a ramp, and children or people from the car in the next lane wander into the driver’s lane.
5.
Know your role. Make sure the driver of the boat and the driver of the vehicle and trailer know their roles before launching begins. 68
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6. 7.
Do not jump in line around other boaters who are waiting to launch or load. This is an argument or
physical altercation waiting to happen.
Do not misuse the ramp courtesy dock. Don’t tie up
at the dock any longer than necessary; be considerate of other boaters. All corps ramp courtesy docks have rule signs posted. Ten minutes is the recommended time allowed.
8.
Courtesy docks are for loading and unloading vessels using the ramp. This is not an area to park
your jet ski while you’re on the beach, nor is it a good place for sunbathing or fishing. Fishing is especially unsafe. Many boaters have been hooked at the ramp or dock by someone who thought it a good idea to fish there.
9. 10.
Follow the same rules when returning to load your boat. Don’t use the ramp to secure your boat for the
ride home; clear the ramp as quickly and safely as possible.
Finally, please remember to wear your life jackets! Remember, life jackets worn, nobody mourns.
For further information concerning boating at Allatoona Lake, please contact the Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700.
Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.
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Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning BY GREG FONZENO
If you spend time on or near the water, whether that’s at Lake Allatoona, a swimming pool, or anywhere else, you should know what to look for when friends, family or, especially, children fall into the water unexpectedly. Drowning is deceptively quiet. Although most of us imagine a drowning victim as thrashing, waving, splashing and yelling in the water, it is rarely that way. Drowning is a silent event, unnoticed by people as few as 10 yards away. Ten years ago, former Coast Guard rescue swimmer Mario Vittone wrote a poignant article describing why too many drownings happen quietly and unnoticed. His article highlighted significant points we all need to know when it comes to water safety. When someone is drowning, there is very little splashing, and no waving or yelling or calling for help of any kind. To get an idea of just how quiet and undramatic drowning can be, consider this: It is the No. 2 cause of accidental death in children age 15 and younger (just behind vehicle accidents). Of the approximately 750 children who will drown this year, nearly 50% of them will do so within 25 yards of a parent or other adult. In 10% of those drownings, the adult will actually watch them, having no idea it is happening. There are many reasons for this. If you are in doubt about a person in the water, ask! Ask them, “Are you alright?” If they can answer at all, they probably are fine. If they return a blank stare, you may have less than 30 seconds to get to them. Children playing in the water make noise. When they get quiet, you need to get to them and find out why. Always remember, life jackets save lives, so wear them.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
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1.
2. 3.
Drowning people are in a state of panic and usually have trouble breathing. Breathing must take place before speech occurs. The mouths of drowning people are not above the surface of the water long enough for them to exhale, inhale and call out for help. When their mouths are above the surface, they exhale and inhale quickly as their mouths start to sink below the surface of the water.
Drowning people cannot wave for help.
They instinctively extend their arms laterally and press down on the water’s surface. Pressing down on the surface of the water lets them leverage their bodies so they can lift their mouths out of the water to breathe. People who are struggling on the surface of the water cannot stop drowning and perform voluntary movements, such as waving for help, moving toward a rescuer or reaching out for a piece of rescue equipment.
Their bodies remain upright in the water, with no evidence of a supporting kick.
Unless rescued by a trained lifeguard, these people can only struggle on the surface of the water for 20-60 seconds before submersion occurs. This doesn’t mean that a person who is yelling for help and thrashing isn’t in real trouble — they are experiencing aquatic distress. Not always present before the instinctive drowning response, aquatic distress doesn’t last long. But, unlike true drowning, these victims can still assist in their own rescue. They can grab lifelines, reach for throw rings, etc.
Other signs of drowning to look for include: • Head low in the water, mouth at water level. • Head tilted back with mouth open. • Eyes glassy and empty, unable to focus. • Eyes closed. • Hair over forehead or eyes.
• Not using legs. • Hyperventilating or gasping. • Trying to swim in a particular direction, but not making headway. • Trying to roll over onto the back. • Appears to be climbing an invisible ladder.
Reminisce or Embrace the New? BOTH “We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” - T.S. Eliot BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
I’ve been struck lately with a trend that I feel we’ve all been moving toward: the desire to reminisce. Increasingly, I see attempts to compare to what’s happened before, expressing a hope for the “good ole days,” and seeking experiences to remind us of that. Naturally, I’ve seen this in the arts industry as well; audiences constantly compare shows they've seen with previous versions of it, saying it's nothing like the original. Or they'll avoid concerts, assuming the music is too different from that they like. This is especially true in a suburban community. Middle America values security when spending money, and if you are faced with a new experience versus something you know, one of those options clearly has more safety. But I think there is a fine line here. While there is a time and place for reminiscing, if you aren’t careful and only strive toward those good ole days, it is just a form of escapism. You eventually have to return to reality, and when you do, you are in the same spot from when you left. The real challenge is to find those original moments, which are harder to find and are usually more expensive. Originality is risky. But that’s why we should seek them out. When you have these moments, you find more authenticity, more connection with those around you. You create a moment for yourself. Elm Street is taking a risk this month and offering several opportunities for you to share in those authentic moments. “Puffs” is a new (hilarious and heartfelt) show that looks at the familiar story of a certain boy wizard at a certain school of magic through the lens of a certain group of students (the Puffs). It’s a reminder that being authentic and true to yourself makes your story matter. Elm Street also is presenting The Lone Bellow as a part of the Lantern Series, an alt/indie country trio that has risen to popularity with its original sound and harmonies. The show and concert are new and original, something our audience knows little about that will, no doubt, create some incredible shared moments for our community. We hope you can take the risk with us and create something special.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
T H ET R I LI I OOT ONU RE/// BA c Eo u sLt iLc O W A LT / I N D I E C O U N T RY | N A S H V I L L E , T N
AUG 17th | 7:30PM
Soulsha
A F r o - C e lt i c F u n k | B o s t o n , M A
SEPT 7th | 7:30PM
LANTERN SERIES PRESENTING PARTNER:
GOLD PARTNERS:
Aug 16th - Sept 1st Puffs is recommended for ages 18+
Registration is OPEN for
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 2019
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Cherokee to Welcome New Education Trends BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
The Cherokee County School District (CCSD) staff stays busy over the summer, preparing campuses for the new year and attending professional development sessions to serve students better. While training runs yearround, with a wide catalog of courses offered for the district’s varied occupations, two trends in instructional excellence are receiving greater attention nationally and here at home: social and emotional learning (SEL), and blended learning.
Social and Emotional Learning This national movement in education ensures the health and well-being of students and school employees Dr. Brian V. Hightower, our school superintendent, appointed an SEL study committee and, during June’s school board meeting, committed to begin phasing in its recommendations (http://bit.ly/ccsdsel). The recommendations will refocus school initiatives and instruction to include SEL core competencies: self-awareness, responsible decisionmaking, relationship skills, social awareness, selfmanagement, and increase services supporting students’ and employees’ mental health and emotional needs. “While caring for the whole child is a responsibility shared by their families and our entire community, we’re committed to every child we serve,” Hightower said. “This new initiative is another way we can continue to do better for our students and employees.”
Want to learn more? Keep up with CCSD news by visiting our website, www.cherokeek12.net, following us on social media, and reading the CCSD Connections monthly e-newsletter. 74
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Blended Learning Through this teaching approach, educators use technology to enhance their traditional instructional methods and resources. A long-time leader in the use of classroom technology, CCSD now is collaborating with national experts like Weston Kieschnick, who served as the keynote speaker for the first CCSD Ed Talks back-to-school professional development session for educators during July pre-planning. He is the author of “Bold School: Old School Wisdom + New School Technologies = Blended Learning That Works.” Kieschnick advocates smart use of instructional technology (devices, websites, software) to support — not replace — educators delivering content and engaging oneon-one with students. One sign of this change is CCSD's growing use of Canvas for instruction; it's already familiar to parents as a way to track their child's assignment and academic progress. This school year, Canvas, for the first time, will allow students to continue their learning, even when schools are closed due to weather conditions. Teachers and students, during the past year, excelled in digital learning day drills, allowing for real usage of the system this school year.
Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.
2019
Football Schedule
8/24
vs. Webber
1 pm
9/7
vs. Pikeville
1:30 pm
9/14
@ Campbellsville
1:30 pm
9/21
@ Keiser
noon
9/28
@ Kennesaw State
6 pm
10/5
@ Kentucky Christian
10/12
vs. Bluefield
6 pm
10/19
@ Point
6 pm
10/26
@ St. Andrews Univ.
11/2
vs. Cincinnati Christian 1:30 pm
11/16
vs. Union
1:30 pm
1:30 pm 1:30 pm
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School News Send Us Your Back to School Photos We love sharing your first day back to school pictures! Send us your favorite shot from the bus stop, front porch or wherever you traditionally take your first day photo. Make sure to include first name, school and grade. Please email (in JPEG format) to jackie@ aroundaboutmagazines.com. Deadline is Aug. 5.
Reinhardt Receives Federal Grant for STEM Education Reinhardt University is expected to receive $930,000 over five years for the STEM Teacher Education and Development Program and will fund student scholarships, teacher stipends, research and a STEM Summer Camp. The National Science Foundation awarded Reinhardt the five-year Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program grant to create the program, which will provide enhanced science and math education at Reinhardt University for students studying to be high school teachers. Provost Mark Roberts and Associate Provost Jacob Harney, who also serves as the dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences, spearheaded the grant writing project with several university education and science faculty members. Other faculty involved in writing the grant include education faculty Tami Smith, and math and sciences faculty Dr. Irma Santoro and Dr. Elizabeth Smith. “Reinhardt is proud to receive this grant, which will provide life-changing opportunities for our students, and impact science and math education in Cherokee and Pickens counties,” Reinhardt President Kina S. Mallard said. “I commend the creative and collaborative effort of the Reinhardt faculty who imagined and wrote the grant. They listened to the needs of our students and our communities as Reinhardt continues to pave the way for student success.” The program will serve Reinhardt students, as well as Cherokee County and Pickens County school districts’ teachers. It also opens up scholarship opportunities for students who receive their associate’s degree in a related field from Chattahoochee Technical College and enroll at Reinhardt to finish their bachelor’s degree. The scholarship funds will be distributed to eligible Reinhardt juniors and seniors who major in biology or math. The Reinhardt graduates will take their knowledge to a Title I public school in Cherokee or Pickens County and teach for at least two years. 76
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The Chattahoochee Tech Occupational Therapy Assistant program is led by Amy Shaffer.
Chatt Tech Welcomes New Program to Canton Campus The Chattahoochee Technical College Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program continues to thrive in its new location at the Canton campus, 1645 Bluffs Parkway, in Cherokee County, after relocating recently from Marietta. “We were excited to move to this new facility,” program director Amy Shaffer said. “The OTA program features state-of-the-art technology here at the Canton campus, and plenty of space to simulate real-world environments for therapy.” The competitive admissions program is one of only four located in Georgia, according to Shaffer. Chattahoochee Tech admitted its first OTA program students in January 2012; approximately 16 students are admitted annually. Students with the necessary prerequisite courses who have been admitted into the college’s OTA program can graduate in two years with an associate degree, and have opportunities for employment at assorted types of locations.
KSU Finishes Top 20 at National Competition Kennesaw State University’s Steel Bridge Student Competition Team recently finished in the top 20 at the American Society of Civil Engineers/American Institute of Steel Construction’s Student Steel Bridge Competition for the fourth time in five years. KSU’s team placed 12th overall, beating out 29 schools from across the country, including Brigham Young University, the University of Wisconsin, Kansas State University and Texas A&M University. Kennesaw State engineering students Chandler Cooper, Gehu Bautista Santiago, Bryan Dutra, Kushal Ankola, Kim McDonald, Nensi Mistry, Francesca Del Aguila, Christian Marshal and Eric Shults traveled to Southern Illinois University for the competition. Teams were scored in categories such as construction, lightness, display, stiffness, economy and efficiency. KSU students built a 203-pound, 22-foot-long bridge in 6 minutes and 16 seconds, the sixth fastest time overall. Kennesaw State placed 11th in economy.
Kennesaw State students during the steel bridge competition. Photo courtesy of Cobb Chamber.
CHANGE THE DIRECTION OF SOMEONE’S LIFE!
Hundreds Enjoyed Fun-Filled Discovery Camp Cherokee County’s expanded elementary school enrichment program, Summer Discovery, was full of arts and crafts, Lego building, computer coding, Minecraft challenges, cooking classes, Muggle Magic, singing and dancing − and, a lot of smiles. More than 350 students attended a morning or afternoon session at the camps, which were held at Hickory Flat and Liberty elementary schools. The classes were taught by Cherokee County school district teachers, who developed the content and planned activities for the week. Tentative dates for next summer’s enrichment program next year are June 8-12, so mark your calendars and look for registration information in early spring 2020.
Support our Programs for People with Special Needs Sign Up at NextStepMinistries.net!
Presented by
Students learned songs and a dance number in “The Greatest Showman” camp. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System • www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org
WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock 770-926-5859
Aug. 10, 24
Inklings Writers’ Critique Group at 11 a.m. Anyone
interested in starting a new group to support their writings is invited to attend. Meetings are the second and fourth Saturday of each month.
Aug. 20
Book Discussion Group at noon. Enjoy coffee, conversation and a book discussion with new friends. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.
Aug. 25
Project Pinterest at 3 p.m. Join in for a Pinterest-inspired craft. For ages 16 and older. Right, a trio of aliens appeared at the Rose Creek library’s family storytime. Below, Woodstock library hosted a “Star Wars” storytime with the help of the 501st Georgia Garrison and the Bespin Base of the Rebel Legion.
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ROSE CREEK
VARSITY FOOTBALL
4476 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock 770-591-1491
Aug. 15
Dog Days of Summer: Senior Ice Cream Social at 2:45 p.m. Calling all seniors. Gather to socialize and beat the heat with a cool treat.
Etowah Eagles Games start at 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 17
Fall Vegetable Gardening at 10:30 a.m. Learn to extend your garden season to enjoy fresh vegetables into the holidays.
Aug. 24
Inklings Creative Expressions presents its Children’s Writers Critique Group at 3 p.m. If you enjoy writing stories for children, this is the place for you.
Aug. 29
Lego Robotics Club at 6 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited. Take apart, rebuild, and program Lego Mindstorm robots.
HICKORY FLAT
Aug. 23 Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Nov. 1 Nov. 8
@ River Ridge @ North Cobb vs South Forsyth vs Pebblebrook @ Hillgrove @ Cherokee vs Woodstock vs Walton Homecoming vs Lassiter @Roswell
2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
Aug. 10
Beginner’s Sewing at 10:30 a.m. Lynne Mock
continues this ongoing session of sewing basics. This month, learn how to make a shopping bag. Registration is required; call 770-345-7565 to sign up.
Aug. 20
Teen Manga Club at 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged to read and discuss different manga series and related topics, draw characters, and compete in manga/ anime-inspired group games.
Aug. 21
Music & Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get moving and
grooving with friends from Go Noodle! It’ll be a dance party to remember! Experience parachute play, music, gross motor skills and storytelling in one action-packed hour! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Woodstock Wolverines Games start at 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 23 Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8
vs North Cobb @ Creekview vs Cambridge @ North Paulding @ North Forsyth @ Etowah @ Cherokee vs Lassiter vs Roswell @ Walton
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PHOTOS BY ABIGAIL PEYTON PHOTOGRAPHY
July 4 Spectacular
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Downtown Woodstock Freedom Run and Parade
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Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons
Ipps Pastaria & Bar
Rootstock and Vine
Century House Tavern
J Christopher’s
Salt Factory Pub
Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com
Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 saltfactorypub.com/woodstock
J Miller’s Smokehouse
Semper Fi Bar and Grille
American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com
Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com
Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com
Fajita Valley
Mexican 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-2570 fajitavalley.com
Freight Kitchen & Tap
BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com
Mad Life Studios
Southern 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com
Partners II Pizza
Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com
Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
Habanero’s Taqueria
Pure Taqueria
Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 habanerostaqueria.com
Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock
Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com
Reel Seafood
Ice Martini & Sushi Bar
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Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com
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Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 reel-seafood.com
Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 rootstockandvine.com
American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 semperfibarandgrille.com
Tea Leaves & Thyme English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com
Truck & Tap
Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com
Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com
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 2019
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Towne Lake Area Homes Sold in June
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Fall 2019 Consignment Sales It’s strategic planning time for moms, dads and grandparents looking for bargains for their little ones. Here’s a list of sales in Cherokee and neighboring counties that should help as you map your plan of action.
Aug. 8-10
All 4 Kids, Woodstock
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.
Aug. 9-10
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
Aug. 15-17
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. 16-17
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
Aug. 23-24
God’s Little Sprouts
8 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Trinity UMC, 814 West Ave., Cartersville www.godslittlesprouts.com
Aug. 23-24
Sept. 12-14
Wildwood Kidz-Sense
Cumming First UMC
9-6 p.m. Friday; 9-1 p.m. Saturday Wildwood Baptist Church 4801 Wade Green Road, Acworth http://kidzsense.org
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
Aug. 24
Due West Treasure Chest
NOWAMOM
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sandy Plains Baptist Church 2825 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta www.nowamom.org
Sept. 5-7
Johns Creek UMC Children’s Sale
2-8 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
Little Lambs
2-8 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Marietta First UMC 56 Whitlock Ave., NW www.lil-lambs.org
7-9 p.m. Thursday shop early for a $5 cash admission fee 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon Saturday 3956 Due West Road, Marietta www.duewest.org
Green With Envy Kids
9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 1328 Buford Highway NE Suite 101, Buford www.greenwithenvykids.com
Sept. 13-14
RUMC Consignment Sale
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon Saturday Roswell UMC 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell Fellowship Hall, Building B www.roswellumc.org/rumck TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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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, Š 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 flat paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along Noonday reek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park. C Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 86
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Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the June competition, "Churches!"
The Cherokee Photography Club m in the monthly contest, that mee 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cheroke contact Kim Bates at 770-617-75
Monochromatic Print:
2nd Bill Bradford "Vik Trollery"
1st Rebecca Blackwell "Luminal Space"
3rd Eillene Kirk "Old-Time Religion"
Color Print:
1st Bill Bradford "Bu Dir Bow" 88
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2nd
meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating eting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are ee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. For more information, please 595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.
Digital Projection:
2nd Rick Sapp "Frost Chapel Side Door"
1st Vicki Sellers "Ida Cason Calloway Memorial Chapel"
d Chastaine Kendrick "Spires of Chattanooga"
3rd Linda Bauer "Pueblo Church"
3rd Rick Sapp "Chapel in the Woods" TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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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. Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee 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. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.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. Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019
Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org
Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 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. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. 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. 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. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. 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.
Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home. 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. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 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.
Male Veteran Support Group
Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Light snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS 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. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/ spotlight/woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. 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. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.
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 Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.
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. Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com.
Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party P.O. Box 1267, Woodstock 678-882-0915. www.cherokeecountygop.com. Contact us to verify meetings, time and locations. Follow us on Facebook and twitter. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES
Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. 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. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 cherokee.netadvent.org Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net
Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Sar Shalom 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock
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.ballgroundumc.org Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock
770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org 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 Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.abiding.church Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life
Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.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 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 2019
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
August 2019
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
CHIROPRACTIC 87
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Jones Family Law 770-479-1050 www.jonesfamilylawfirm.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.nelsoneldercarelaw.com Tidwell Strimban 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
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Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
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Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
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Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898 SALON & SPA
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CLEANING SERVICES Carpet Dry Tech 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com
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CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com
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Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.citadelwealthcare.com
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R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
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Your CBD Store 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com
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Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com
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Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 39 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock Carpet Dye Tech 678-368-5992 www.carpetdyetech.com CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661
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ClearView Softwash & Pressure Washing 27 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com
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Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 54 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com
Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
Rise Against Hunger hillsideumc.org/riseagainsthunger
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Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com
Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR
Goshen Homes 770-345-9535 www.goshenvalley.org/homes
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
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CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
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Accounting Connections, LLC O:770-516-5987 C: 770-846-7799 www.accountingconnections.org
Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.clubpilates.com/woodstock
Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com
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Piano Teacher Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com
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FITNESS
DENTAL
Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com
College Smartboard 678-379-8662 www.collegesmartboard.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES
23
BUSINESS SUPPORT Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com
Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
BEAUTY/HAIR SALON élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com
Cover, 48, 49, 63
(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)
AUTOMOTIVE
Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com/townelake
Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING
7
77
Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
53
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
15
Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology 41 Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.atlantagynonc.com
Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
33
GYN Surgical Specialists www.gynsurgicalspecialists.com
57
North Georgia Clinical Reasearch 678-494-5735 www.NGClinicalResearch.com
51
Nelson Exteriors 678-283-8171 www.nelson-exteriors.com
Inside front
79
Kennesaw State Owls Football
75
Next Step Ministries 5K
77
Reinhardt University Eagles Football
75
Woodstock Wolverines Football
79
Suntex Boat Club 770-331-2040 www.suntexboatclub.com
62
83
Southern Air Pros 770-713-0168 www.southernairpros.com
3
Northside Hospital Cherokee 770-517-6636 www.Northside.com/orthopedic
11
Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
7
Northside Vascular Surgery 770-292-3490 www.nvs-ga.com
61
33
Optimal Performance Medicine 9 678-250-0700 www.optimalperformancemedicine.com
17
Plastic Surgery Center of the South 34 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Primary Care Plus, PC 678-574-3000
43
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
61
PHOTOGRAPHY Abigail Peyton Photography www.apeytonphotography.com
65
Brittany Weir Photography 678-514-9267
83
Darby Rose Photography www.darbyrosephotography.com
69
J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com
57
56
Etowah Eagles Football
Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-924-9656 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
Terrell Real Estate/ Remax 770-331-4403 www.toddterrell.com
47
67
Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
55
Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com
Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com
State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net
Soleil Laurel Canyon 678-710-9023 www.soleillaurelcanyon.com
RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT
47
INSURANCE
43
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
The Townlake Handyman Service, LLC 770-966-2945
Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
37
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
31
Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
3
Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com
9
Gordon Mosley, Harry Norman Realtors 7 C: 404-667-3221, O: 404-495-8331 www.gordonsellsatl.com Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com
73
RESTAURANTS/FOOD Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910
9
RETAILERS/ HOME DÉCOR Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
17
Pineapple Park Home 678-494-8494 www.pineapplepark.com
35
Southern Sky Outlet 678-842-8411
47
SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
19
TRANSPORTATION Aracely's Taxi 678-883-4479
27
EconoRides 678-218-7170 www.econorides.com
39
TOWNELAKER | August 2019
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall 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. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400
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TOWNELAKER | August 2019