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AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Contents August 2020
Residential Funding Consultants
Contributors
On The Cover
30 Don Akridge
Joshua Dean, with wife Tina and children Judah, Grantly and Gracie, has a strong commitment to his family and the community.
32 Dr. Nasir Asghar 20 Gloria Avillar 48 Jeff Bennett 45 Christopher Brazelton
Pages 28 & 29
42 Cherokee Office of Economic Development
Cover photo by J. King Images
46 Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. Council 34 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 16 Joshua Fuder 39 Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry 49 Barbara P. Jacoby 26 Harry Johnston 38 Rob Macmillan 41 Dr. Haiden Nunn 22 Susan Schulz 50 Tim Timmons
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44 Pacita Wilson
Jazz Festival
A torrential rainstorm didn't spoil the city's first Jazz & Blues Festival of the Arts, but it did cause some to run for cover.
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Give a Kid a Chance
Cherokee nonprofit celebrates its 15th anniversary with a twist, by delivering backpacks drivethrough style.
42
Expanding Boundaries
Cherokee Office of Economic Development celebrates first year of successful NAV mentoring program.
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In Every Issue 4 Around Canton 8 Community News 12 Celebrations 38 Rob’s Rescues 40 Everyday Angels 48 School News 52 Community Calendar 54 Directory of Advertisers
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Around Canton
Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting
Letter From the Editor This month's issue is full of laughter and gardens, festivals and fun. I think most of us are ready for a little levity, aren’t we? However, we have included a few articles with meatier topics, thanks to our friends at the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (celebrating mentorship and diversity on Pages 42-43) and the UGA Extension staff and Master Gardener Extension volunteers. On Pages 16-17, Joshua Fuder tells us about a new outdoor garden and education center planned for Veterans Park. Back to the lighter side. You know how we love to celebrate those obscure national observances in our world? August 16 is a perfect example: it’s National Tell a Joke Day! Turn to Page 14 if you need some new material. You’re welcome! And just because, here are a few more special days for your consideration. How you celebrate them is up to you, but please share if you come up with some cute pictures. ALM is a no judgment zone, so please - share away!
Aug. 5: National Underwear Day Aug. 10: National Spoil Your Dog Day Aug. 12: National Middle Child Day Aug. 20: National Lemonade Day Aug. 25: National Secondhand Wardrobe Day
Your CBD Store Hickory Flat
2864 East Cherokee Drive, Suite B, Canton. 678-880-9767.
What's New Northside Hospital Cardiovascular Institute, has opened new locations at 145 Riverstone Terrace in Canton, and 684 Sixes Road in Holly Springs. The offices offer comprehensive cardiovascular care using state-of-the-art techniques in interventional cardiology, cardio-oncology, advanced heart failure care, electrophysiology and imaging. Northsidecvi.com. Wasabi Sushi and Steak Japanese Restaurant
has opened at 3725 Sixes Road. 770-720-0879. wasabisushirestaurant.com.
I don’t care to comment on that first one! I’ve had my share of spoiled doggies, though. As an only child (I can’t relate to the Aug. 12 holiday), I grew up thinking our dog Rusty was my brother. He was pretty spoiled, just like me. I had another brother named John Henry, a tabby cat who weighed close to 25 pounds and lived to be 18 years old. Maybe that’s partly why, as I’m writing this column, I’m flanked by my two cats (John Henry II and Bunny). They know I’m a sucker for a furry feline! By the way, National Cat Day is Oct. 29, and National Furry Day is Feb. 21. I kid you not. But, I digress. Because we’re such good friends now, and you’ve met my fur family, I want to share my favorite joke with you. I love this joke because it’s short enough to remember and I get to use my thickest Southern accent.
Aroundabout Local Media has created a 16-page history publication called Around Cherokee. A PDF is available on the homepage of the Around Canton website. Go to www. aroundcantonmagazine.com, scroll down and click on the Around Cherokee cover image on the right. We enjoyed sharing the history of our county and its cities with you in our July issues, and pulled everything together into one document that can be printed, saved and referred to often.
“How is my hand like a lemon pie? Because it has meringue (pronounce: mah-rang) on it.”
Fury Volleyball Club is moving to 60 Waleska St., part of The Mill On Etowah. Owners Erik and Jessica Welker hope to complete renovations on the new location by the end of this month. Watch their progress on Facebook or Instagram. Furyvolleyball.club.
When you tell this joke, you must sound like Scarlett O’Hara and flash your ring finger. Works every time!
What's Coming ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry is opening at 5341 Old Highway 5, Suite 208 in Woodstock. Doctors Tom and Lulu Lagree (she is a Woodstock native) are opening the practice, hopefully by mid-August, to offer a fun experience for children. 470-523-8090. www.toothtownpd.com.
The owners of RockSolid Brewing Co. announced they hope to open their doors this fall, at 345 Gilmer Ferry Road in Ball Ground. Follow on Facebook for updates. Candi Hannigan is the executive editor Around Canton. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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What's Canceled The Service League of Cherokee County has canceled
Riverfest 2020. www.serviceleague.net.
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Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker
Our Mission
“Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.”
Results With Us Advertising with Around Canton has been the easiest and most effective way to communicate directly to my client base and attract new customers. Thank you Around Canton, for helping me grow my business! Jana Rice, Owner, Your CBD Store Canton
Market Manager Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 Jennifer@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor/Social Media Strategist Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers Community Board Pat Gold, Dr. Christopher Alvey, Sonia Carruthers, Chantel Adams, Dr. Oliver "Ollie" Evans
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AROUND CANTON | August 2020
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 24,100 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 900 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 56 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Canton is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2020. Around Canton
1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 8, Issue 5
America’s Community Magazine
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Local News Keep Cherokee Beautiful Meeting Held
CRP representatives honored are, from left: Bill Firnbach, athletic coordinator; Shawn Schumacher, athletics division director; Camille Thomas, athletic director; Jay Worley, CRP director; and Matt Graney, athletics coordinator.
Cherokee Rec Earns Quality Distinction Cherokee Recreation & Parks (CRP) has been awarded the Better Sports for Kids Quality Program Provider designation by the National Alliance for Youth Sports. The designation shows that CRP has met requirements in five categories to assure a safe play environment: written policies and procedures, volunteer screening, coach training, parent education and accountability. “We recognized that we have to actively demonstrate that we are providing youth sports programs of the highest standard,” Director Jay Worley said of the designation, valid through Dec. 31, 2021. “Parents have many choices when it comes to youth sports, so the Better Sports for Kids Quality Program Provider designation is an important promotional tool to allow our organization to set ourselves apart, and gives parents confidence in our programs, since they can take comfort knowing their child is in the best place possible to learn and compete in sports.” For more details, visit www.nays.org/quality.
A Community Focus on Dealing With Addiction A virtual Cherokee County Recovery Summit Symposium will be held on Facebook over Zoom, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 29. The purpose of the event is to educate and bring awareness to the community’s issues of recovery from addiction. Goals are to hear from members of the community about what is needed, create resourceful relationships, and collaborate on solutions that are community-specific. The event will feature keynote speakers who will discuss recovery, with breakout sessions covering a variety of topics. More details at www.cherokeerecoverysummit.com. The Zoom link for that day is: https://zoom.us/j/6787721523.
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District 3 County Commissioner Benny Carter recently hosted a community interest meeting to gauge support for Keep Cherokee Beautiful, a new program designed to help keep the county clean and green. “I want this to be an inclusive program,” Carter said. “I want to partner with Canton, Holly Springs, Woodstock, Waleska and Ball Ground, and build on and support what they are doing. I also want to include the Chamber of Commerce, who has had a going green initiative for many years. I don’t want to compete with or exclude anyone, and I want this to be truly countywide.” About 20 people attended the interest session, including Cherokee Recreation & Parks board member Mark Preetorius, who led the discussion, along with representatives of the Lake Allatoona Association, county staff involved with the project, and interested residents. Once the program officially is chartered and is underway, the recycling center will provide supplies, such as trash bags, and will loan out trash grabbers for volunteers to use. Recycling center staff also will handle pickups of trash following cleanup efforts. “The recycling center will be the primary contact for Keep Cherokee Beautiful, and serve [in] that support role as the county supports this initiative,” said Bryan Reynolds, director of the county Community Services Agency, which oversees Cherokee Recreation & Parks and the Cherokee Recycling Center. To learn about future meetings, and to become involved, contact Troy Brazie, Cherokee Recycling Center manager, at tdbrazie@ cherokeega.com.
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Local News 17 Teens Complete Chamber Leadership Class Members of the 19th annual Teen Leadership Cherokee class have completed their program, which is sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Seventeen students took part in the January-March events. Among the events were: an orientation with their parents, a retreat, and classes on topics that included community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building. For information on qualifying for the 2021 class, visit www.cherokeechamber.com. Members of the class are, front row, from left: Caden Sanders, Cherokee; Ezra Nash, Creekview; Seth Hennessee, Cherokee; Chris Miller, Sequoyah; and Jeb Stewart, Creekview. Middle row, from left: Audrey Brown, Sequoyah; Taylor Tragesser, Sequoyah; Rylee Hopson, Cherokee; Lauren Kinney, Cherokee; Ashley Tippens, Creekview; and Elyse Robbins, Sequoyah. Back row, from left: Chair Will Goodwin, Oak Leaf Church; Meredith Anderson, Creekview; Marshall Ketcham, Sequoyah; Maulik Durani, River Ridge; Cal Pace, Creekview; Holli DeBord, Cherokee; Katie Volz, Cherokee; and Vice-Chair Tracey Satterfield Martin, Live Clean. The photo was taken March 12.
A Virtual Introduction to Girl Scouts Girls interested in joining Girl Scouts can join in a free virtual information meeting to learn more about scouting opportunities in Cherokee County. For grades K-12, Girl Scouts offers ways to have fun, make friends and take part in activities that create a positive impact on a girl’s life, her school and her world. To learn more, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/110112054118 or joingirlscoutsatl.com. Sherry Saunders, the area executive for Cherokee County, is available at ssaunders@gsgatl.org or 404-293-3511. 10
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Past President Stacey D. Williams, left, with new President Shane Moore.
New Rotary President Brings Fresh Focus The Rotary Club of Canton is beginning its new year with a new president leading the community’s most historic civic club: Shane Moore, executive director of Cherokee Impact Soccer. “I’m looking forward to serving,” said Moore, who for the past year led the club’s community service efforts and, this spring, earned the Lamar Haley Community Service Award. “Our club is a collection of true people of action.” The new president said he is focused on continuing to grow the membership, while also working to engage existing members in service, resulting in his creation of a new role: member engagement chair, which will be filled by past president Lynn Epps of Cherokee County State Court. This year’s executive officers are: Presidentelect Greg Elder of MUST Ministries; Vice President/Past President Stacey D. Williams of Cherokee County government; Presidentnominee and Secretary Nicole Lawson of United Way; Treasurer Robert Ballestros of Simply Beyond Expectations LLC, and Sgt.-atArms Cherokee County School District School Police Chief Buster Cushing. Leading service initiatives are: Community Service – Susan Treadaway of the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office; International Service – Rebecca Johnston, author and columnist, who also will serve as programs chair; Vocational Service – attorney Peter Gleichman, and Youth Services – Rachel Ashe of the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office and April Rogers of Cherokee Impact Soccer. Past District Governor Shane Burr will continue to serve as membership chair. The club meets at noon on Tuesdays. For more information, email nlawson@ unitedwayatlanta.org.
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Celebrations!
Happy first birthday, Madelyn!
Christian
Aug. 17 You've added so much joy to our family! We love you, Mommy, Daddy and Olivia.
Aug. 23 Happy 6th birthday! Mommy loves you!
Kaya
Turned 11 on July 11. Happy birthday, Nugget! A little different than your birthday last year. We love you! Mommy, Daddy, Luke and Scout.
Izzy Avery Jackson
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Iker Delgado
Aug. 31 Happy 8th birthday, Ikis! We love you so much! Mommy and family.
Keaton
Aug. 7 Happy birthday, Keats! 13 ‌ Yikes! Love, Mom, Dad, and yes, Connor.
Born June 24 to parents Brittany and Marquise Jackson.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
E-mail to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 10. Please specify Around Canton.
Dwight Alcala of Kennesaw and a Georgia Tech graduate, and Tracey Graham of Woodstock were married April 4.
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Have You Heard the One About …
Knock, knock. Who's there? Madame. Madame who?
In the spirit of National Tell a Joke Day on Aug. 16, we asked community leaders to share their favorite funnies with you. We couldn’t bear to think you might wake up that morning and not have a good joke at your disposal!
Madame tongue keeps fallin' out. - Teddy the Spaz Man
What kind of man was Boaz before he married? Ruthless.
Two windmills were talking. One windmill asked the other… what is your favorite music? The other windmill answered “I am a big metal fan”
- Ross Wiseman
- Kevin Williams
What's Forrest Gump's password? 1Forrest1 - JoEllen Wilson
Have I already told you my déjà vu joke? - Barbara Jacoby
Why didn’t the melons get married? Because they cantaloupe.
- Brooke Schmidt
Why will there be no baseball in heaven? Because there will be no umpires in heaven!
What has four wheels and flies? A garbage truck! - Lori Baker
- Jeff Moon
The perfect crime was committed last night. Someone broke into the police station and stole all the toilets. Police say they have nothing to go on. - Jay Baker
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- Joe Lemmo AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Learning From the Masters Educational garden and orchard project offers a hands-on outdoor classroom. BY JOSHUA FUDER
A quarter-acre spot on the grounds of Cherokee Veterans Park, a county park at 7345 Cumming Highway in north Cherokee, will be developed into an educational garden and orchard. When finished, the space will welcome residents who want to learn about home vegetable and fruit gardening through formal and informal educational programs led by UGA Extension staff and Master Gardener Extension volunteers. The project is a partnership of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension-Cherokee County and the Cherokee County Recreation & Parks Agency (CRPA). Planning began in 2019, with multiple county departments and UGA Master Gardener Extension volunteers contributing ideas for the project
goals, activities and concept design of the space. The proposal was approved unanimously by the CRPA advisory board in February. Construction will begin in late fall or winter on the garden, located between the tennis courts and maintenance building. The project will give volunteers space to offer the type of impactful, hands-on training that gardeners of all experience levels can benefit from. This all comes at a fortuitous time, with more individuals gardening for the first time due to COVID-19. There is increasing evidence and scientific studies indicating the substantial health and wellness benefits of gardening. The development will come in two phases, as funding support is secured. The first phase will include fencing the area, constructing raised beds and an irrigation system, establishing perennial berries and dwarf fruit trees,
and planting a native wildflower buffer on the side nearest the tennis courts. Phase 2 includes construction of a greenhouse and covered patio. The county’s UGA Extension will hold a pre-order fruit plant sale, September through October, to continue progress made on the fundraising goal for this project. Information on that sale can be found on the UGA ExtensionCherokee County Facebook page or at: https://t.uga.edu/67d. “After discussing the options, Cherokee Veterans Park was selected as the site for this project. Space available and the agrarian appeal of that portion of the county are two of the primary reasons for selecting this location,” CRPA Director Jordan Wood said. The ultimate goal for this partnership between the Cherokee County branch of the UGA Extension service and Cherokee Recreation & Parks will be able to offer a unique facility in our county that will encourage citizens to get outside, get dirty, and get educated on the substantial human health benefits of gardening.
Joshua Fuder is the agriculture and natural resources agent with UGA Extension-Cherokee County.
The quarter-acre spot is between the tennis courts and maintenance building. 16
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The site plan for the educational garden and orchard project.
Take the time to stop, and smell the roses.
Manor Lake BridgeMill, Canton’s premiere Assisted Living and Memory Care community, offers exceptional senior living with services and amenities that are second to none. Let our staff take care of life’s daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry; giving you the opportunity to enjoy fun activities and experience new adventures. You might even find some roses to smell along the way! Mention this ad when you call to inquire.
678-990-5055 131 Holly Street | Canton, GA 30114 manorlakebr.com
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Music on the Vine’s
JAZZ & BLUES Festival of the Arts
The inaugural Jazz & Blues Festival of the Arts, held June 27, in downtown Canton, was a success, despite a powerful storm that blew through and had everyone running for cover. The gazebo came in handy that afternoon! Music on the Vine’s owner, Cheryl Vann Darnell developed, managed and coordinated the availability of 15 performances to make a full day of music. Her long-term goal is to have a yearly two-day music and food festival.
Jazz fans were scattered on the lawn in front of the stage. 18
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Family and friends of Red Sky Muse turn out to support the band.
PHOTOS BY JAXON MEEKS
Organizer Cheryl Vann Darnell, standing in the background, keeps a careful check on the weather.
Umbrellas came in handy during the sudden rainstorm.
Linda is a cancer survivor who inspired the crowd. AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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From left: Kelly Dean, Gloria Avillar, Jen DeMichele, Kelly Gamboa, Amy Arnold, Shelley Walters, Gwen Worley and Tracie Giles in Boston last year.
Sharing the Pink Love, Locally Mother-daughter pair didn’t lose a step in coming up with an alternative to the annual 3-Day Susan Komen event. BY GLORIA AVILLAR
In 2009, I joined a group of friends to participate in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure, the annual event where hundreds of men and women walk 60 miles in three days to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. Since, I’ve been a part of Team Treasure Chest, and we have collectively logged more than 4,000 official 3-Day miles and raised more than $165,000 in the fight against this dreaded disease. Raising money and awareness are the most crucial elements of being involved with the 3-Day events, and that is why we do it. As a member of the special community dedicated to this cause, I know that the money we’ve raised has helped save lives. And being together as a team, along with hundreds of other Pink Warriors, for the actual 60-mile weekend event is always just icing on the cake. Each year as the weather starts to warm up, I begin my walk training. Starting slowly and building up the mileage, I hit the streets of my neighborhood to prepare my body and mind for the 60-mile challenge. And this year was no different. Happy to have my daughter, Maddie, join me, we decided to expand the training area and explore the many beautiful walking trails and paths throughout Cherokee County. It was on one of these walks that we realized that we could actually create our own 60-mile route right here in our backyard. Well, in mid-May we received the inevitable email letting us know that, understandably, this year’s Susan G. Komen 3-Day events had been canceled. We would not be spreading the pink love in Chicago later this year. Without missing a 20
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step (pun intended), Maddie and I knew what we had to do: bring the Pink Bubble to Cherokee for Team Treasure Chest’s own 60-mile/3-Day adventure. Just like a true 3-Day event, our route will take us through amazing parks, trails and neighborhoods. There will be quiet streets and busy roads, and plenty of opportunities to buy food and fill water bottles. We know it won’t have all the bells, whistles and amenities of an official event (like sweep vans and port-a-potties), but it will give us the opportunity to celebrate the fact that Team Treasure Chest raised more than $20,000 this year. We would be happy to share our route and welcome those of you interested in making a statement to take the challenge and give it a try. Walk for one day or all three, it’s up to you. This is a walk with friends – a walk with a purpose. And if seeing a group decked out in pink, walking down the street, gets one woman to make that mammogram appointment or do a self-exam, it will be worth it. For more details on the Oct. 2-4 event, or to reach Gloria, email footstepsforthecure@gmail.com, or visit https://foot-steps.wixsite.com/footstepsforthecure.
From left, Worley, DeMichele, Arnold, Avillar, Dean and Debi Lee in Twin Cities in 2015.
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Bethesda Community Clinic Caring, Compassionate Health Care
BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Bethesda is the name of a pool near the sheep-gate in Jerusalem, the water of which had curative powers. The Apostle John recorded the story of Jesus healing a man there, who had been disabled for 38 years. The name Bethesda actually means: house of mercy, or place for receiving and caring for the sick. Bethesda Community Clinic (BCC) Canton lives up to its name. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, BCC has remained open to serve our community. The staff members are committed to providing quality healthcare to those in need during this difficult time. They conduct in-office visits and routine labs and are also available for $25 telemedicine visits for those who may be currently sick, those who are continuing to shelter-inplace, and those who find it difficult to access transportation. BCC has demonstrated the compassion of Christ by providing quality healthcare at low or no cost since 2011 for the residents of Cherokee County and surrounding areas. “We are here to serve our community regardless of ability to pay,” said Melissa Belfied, Bethesda’s executive director. The professional staff strives to deliver affordable healthcare to the underserved, uninsured and underinsured, and to provide ongoing care. Their fully equipped clinic specializes in primary care for all age groups, offering:
Bethesda Clinic staff, front row, from left: Patricia Mason, licensed practical nurse; Nicole Maul, medical assistant; Tracey Goddard-Johnson, phlebotomist; Brandy Mendoza-Perez, patient care coordinator, and Rafael Rodriguez, front office/medical interpreter. Back row, from left: Executive Director Melissa Belfield; Brian Brandt, physicians assistant, and Karen Fegely, nurse practitioner/founder.
● ● ● ● ●
Physical exams Well-woman exams Acute care Chronic disease management Diabetes education and nutrition classes ● Wellness coaching ● Prescription assistance ● Blood lab testing ● Counseling services based in Biblical principles The staff of BCC desires to help as many people as possible into the Pool of Wellness. Patient Margi C. said, “My brother sees Dr. Jacobs. What an amazing place! I have never been to a doctor’s office that had a prayer board. All the
staff there are very caring and helpful. They don’t treat you like second class, just because you don’t have money.” BCC is staffed by paid employees augmented by volunteers who desire to serve their neighbors in this setting. The clinic also supports the mentoring of medical and nursing students who often have a role in patient care. Maureen, a nurse practitioner said, “I volunteer because there is an unmet need in my community. I want to share my time and talent to serve God’s people.” The need for low cost and free medical care is great in our area. Each month the number of uninsured or under-insured individuals seeking medical care continues to grow. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting the mission of BCC. Use the contact information below if you are looking for a place to serve. If you are a patient in need of services, visit www.bcccherokee.com for more information, new patient forms and hours of operation. Any questions or concerns, email: director@bcccherokee.com or call 678-880-9654. BCC is located at 111 Mountain Brook Drive, Canton, GA 30189. Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. She loves serving at Woodstock City Church. Connect with her at www.susanbrowningschulz.com.
Creative decor in the children's exam room. 22
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A car full of happy students with their school supplies and stuffed animals at First Baptist Canton.
Volunteers Kacie Reed and Rachel Ash are prepared to distribute backpacks.
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Hasty Elementary School counselor Mable Ferry gets hugs from Alex and Dani.
Marilyn, Susan and Lynn of the BridgeMill-Sixes Service League brought gift bags, filled with toiletries, donated by the organization.
Celebrating a Milestone
Volunteers loaded the trunks with backpacks, stuffed animals and books.
PHOTOS BY HEATHER STEVENS, JOYFUL DAY PHOTOGRAPHY.
The 15th annual Give a Kid a Chance back-to-school event looked a little different this year, with families driving through on July 18 to pick up new backpacks filled with school supplies for their children, along with books and stuffed animals. Each family also received a box of food, donated by SERV International. One of the event’s organizers, Nitasha Ginn, estimates 70 volunteers distributed 1,600 backpacks at both locations: Hillside United Methodist Church in Woodstock, and First Baptist Canton. An additional 1,170 backpacks were given to Cherokee County schools to be distributed to students as needed. For more info on Give a Kid a Chance, visit www.giveakidachance.org. Also on Facebook.
Registration team members, from left: Nilda Tippins, Chris Monger, Kristin Steinberg, Shelley McNellie, Fernando Casanova, Maria del Angel and Hernan Deviez. AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Continuing to Coordinate Efforts in Cherokee The good news is that new instances of hospitalization due to the virus haven’t risen that fast. Average new daily hospitalizations in Georgia rose from 93 to 133 in June, a Three months ago, my column in this publication 43% increase. In Cherokee, they remained essentially flat, expressed hope that the COVID-19 epidemic would be at about two per day. That probably indicates some of fading by now. The governor took statewide control, the increase in reported cases is due to broader testing. overriding local governments, and issued a meaningful It’s also because most of the new cases are in younger, statewide shelter-in-place order. Most people observed healthy people who usually don’t require it, and it seemed to be working. By late hospitalization. Older and medically fragile May, the number of new cases was Our best chance of folks are taking greater precautions, as they declining. Unfortunately, the gains against limiting the damage should. So, where do we go from here? the disease were short-lived. People from the disease, Cherokee County continues to support understandably grew tired of being testing, with a site at the Cherokee unable to work, shop, dine and otherwise as we work to live County Health Department in Woodstock go about their regular business. with it, is to take as at 7545 Main St., where hundreds Businesses struggled to stay alive, and of tests are administered daily. Your workers who could not work from home many precautions local government officials continue to suffered financially. In a society that as possible. coordinate efforts across our five cities; expects and demands great personal Sheriff’s Department, County Commission freedom, restrictive orders can be and school officials are working together sustained only for limited periods. to stay updated and coordinated. The initial success became the basis for removing Right now, it looks as if the pandemic will likely continue most restrictions at the end of May, in Georgia and to grow until most people have been exposed, or we have across most of the nation. At first, the number of a vaccine. Our best chance of limiting the damage from new cases remained flat, or even fell slightly, in the the disease, as we work to live with it, is to take as many first week of June. That remained true in Georgia and precautions as possible. Together, we will get through this. Cherokee County for a few days, even after we saw disturbing increases elsewhere. Then, it happened. The seven-day average of new daily cases across Georgia rose from 611 on June 1 to 1,945 on June 30, more than a threefold increase. In Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired Cherokee County, the average new daily cases rose from CPA and accounting manager, and a former 11 to 27 over the same period. And, at this writing in district commissioner. early July, they’re still rising. BY HARRY JOHNSTON
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Cherokee County Board of Commissioners
Selected as Forbes Magazine’s Best-in-State Credit Union for the 2nd Year in a Row!
Highlights from the July 7 meeting. To see a complete list of actions taken, visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved awarding a professional services agreement to Wilburn Engineering to conduct a corridor study of Bells Ferry Road, focusing on an estimated 6 miles, from the bridge over Lake Allatoona to Marietta Highway, to determine the need for short-term, mid-term and longrange capacity and intersection improvements. Future improvements to the existing bridge also are on the horizon, with the Georgia Department of Transportation currently in the design process.
e r e H e We’r ou! For Y
ol o Scho Back T a Little Looks ... is Year h T t n Differe
During the meeting, the commissioners also: • Approved The Pacific Group/Kevin Seifert’s request to remove a zoning condition made in 2004 that allowed property at Lower Bethany Road and Ball Ground Highway to be used for senior living only, and change it to allow townhomes, rather than apartments, at about half the originally approved density. • Approved The Pacific Group/Kevin Seifert’s request to rezone 31.825 acres at Lower Bethany Road from R-80 and General Commercial to RZL (Zero Lot Line) for a single-family residential development.
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• Partially approved a request to rezone 3.27 acres on GA Highway 92 from R-20 to General Commercial for RV and Boat Storage. Commissioner Corey Ragsdale, in whose district the property lies, said the recently updated Highway 92 Village Overlay restricts RV and boat storage uses. He made a motion to approve the rezoning to General Commercial, but to restrict the zoning to uses only allowable in the Highway 92 Village Overlay.
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• Approved a professional services agreement to the highest scoring proposer, Tunnell, Spangler & Associates, for $48,545 to conduct the Southwest Cherokee Parks & Trails Plan. • Approved an agreement with SERV International for nonprepared food boxes for eligible senior citizens, using grant money received from the federal Family First Act grant funds in response to COVID-19.
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Serving His Community
Former pastor brings passion to educate, serve to his role as mortgage broker.
W
hen you read Joshua Dean’s bio, it is easy to realize his passion for helping people. The mortgage broker has degrees in education and theology, along with mortgage and insurance experience. At the core of his role as a mortgage broker with Residential Funding Consultants is a desire to educate and serve people in his community, helping them achieve their dreams of owning a home. “I believe in doing the right thing, and treating people with dignity and value,” Joshua said. “My perspective comes from being a former pastor and loving people well.”
More Options, Better Choices
Joshua moved his family to Cherokee County from Buffalo, New York, four years ago. His commitment to supporting the community led him to open the Woodstock office of Residential Funding Consultants, where he’s branch manager with a staff to support him. He has more than 12 years of experience in the financial services industry, including residential mortgages, debt management, and property and casualty insurance.
As a mortgage broker, Joshua has more than 50 lenders at his disposal. He is able to shop for the best rates for his clients who are buying, selling or refinancing their homes. More options mean better choices for his clients, an advantage of moving past the old mindset of going to a bank or a direct lender when looking for a home loan. Education is another element that Joshua brings to the closing table. He spends time educating his clients - especially first-time home buyers - from beginning to end, so they feel confident understanding the process and appreciating the value of their purchase. “I hold your hand through the entire process. You have access to me whenever you need it,” he said. “My allegiance is to you because I don’t work for one lender.” Communication is one key to Joshua’s success, along with the strength that comes from working with two experienced team members. Morgan Townsend, Joshua’s assistant, and Mary Free, the processor, have close to 15 years of combined service in the industry. The team works together to stay in touch with agents, clients and Sponsored Content
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everyone involved in the process. “We want to help people take their next best step in their home ownership journey, whatever that entails,” Joshua said. “I win a lot of business because I can get the best rates, but I keep my business because of service.”
All About Community
Commitment to the community is what drives Joshua as a businessman, husband and father of three: Judah, 8, Grantly, 7, and Gracie, 3. He cites that dedication as the reason he works hard to offer the best personal service to clients who are looking to buy, sell or refinance a home. Joshua and his wife, Tina, have been married 15 years and are part of a small group at
Clients Are Saying
PHOTO BY J. KING IMAGES
“Joshua Dean and his team are phenomenal. My husband and I were first time home buyers and Josh was incredibly helpful in walking us through the process and making us feel confident and comfortable as we ventured into this next big step in our lives. He was incredibly accommodating and went above and beyond in explaining every last detail of the process and what to expect. His platform was user-friendly and allowed for us to remain organized throughout the process. His communication was impeccable and he was readily available at all hours to address questions or concerns. Overall, Josh and his team are friendly, professional, timely and organized. They were a complete joy to work with and made an intimidating process feel absolutely seamless. My husband and I are incredibly grateful to Joshua Dean for making our first time home buying experience so special. We will have the fondest memories of our first home for many years to come.” Sabrina F.
Woodstock City Church. He is a volunteer coach for his kids’ basketball and soccer teams. He was a Division I basketball player at the University of Buffalo, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. He also has a master’s degree in theological studies from Masters International University of Divinity. The former pastor admits he is doing ministry in a different context now, as a full-time mortgage broker. “Buying a home is often a stressful time. People get weary in the process, and often feel overwhelmed. I’m here to eradicate any doubt,” he said. “I will pray with people if they want me to. My passion is just to serve people, and create a great experience for them.”
“Joshua Dean did an amazing job helping my wife and I buy our first house. He made the whole process as smooth as could be and made me feel confident about our purchase. He explained everything in simple terms so we would understand and was there to answer any questions that we had no matter the time of day. Josh even took time out of his Friday night and stayed on the phone with me until almost midnight one night because I was having a hard time sending over certain documents. I would recommend Josh to anybody.” Donald W. “Joshua Dean and team were the best to work with! Professional, prompt, knowledgeable, and with the consumer’s best interest in mind. Also, Joshua was very flexible with being available after-hours and weekends to answer calls and texts. If you’re in the market for a loan or refinance, Joshua Dean and his team are the way to go!” Diana M.
Residential Funding Consultants Joshua Dean 700 Churchill Court, Suite 120, Woodstock 30188
470-303-0087 residentialfundingconsultants.com/joshua-dean joshua.dean@ResidentialFundingConsultants.com AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Retirement Plan Options for Small Businesses DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
As a small-business owner, figuring out retirement choices can be a little intimidating. How do you pick the most appropriate retirement plan for your business as well as your employees? The SECURE Act and CARES Act may complicate the decision. There are three main types of retirement plans for small businesses: SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, and 401(k)s. Read on to learn more about each plan. Also, keep in mind that recent legislative changes that occurred with the passing of the SECURE Act and CARES Act may complicate the decision.
SIMPLE IRAs. SIMPLE stands for Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees. This is a traditional IRA that is set up for employees and allows both employees and employers to contribute. If you’re an employer at a small business who needs to get started with a retirement plan, a SIMPLE IRA may be for you. While this plan doesn’t require an employee to contribute, employers must contribute 2% of their employee’s salary to a retirement fund. If you do choose to offer a matching contribution to your employee’s SIMPLE IRA plan, you can match up to 3% of your employee’s compensation. Employees also can participate in a SIMPLE IRA plan by having automatic deductions go straight from their paycheck to their SIMPLE IRA.1,2,3 Distributions from SIMPLE IRAs are taxed as ordinary income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. However, during the 2020 calendar year, the CARES Act allows eligible participants to take an early distribution of up to $100,000 without paying the 10% penalty. Generally, once you reach age 72, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. For a business to use a SIMPLE IRA, it typically must have fewer than 100 employees and cannot have any other retirement plans in place. There are also no filing requirements required by the employer.2 SEP IRAs. SEP plans (also known as SEP IRAs) are Simplified Employee Pension plans. Any business of any size can set up one of these types of retirement plans, including a self-employed business owner. This type of retirement plan may be an attractive option for a business owner, because a SEP IRA does not have the start-up and operating costs of a conventional retirement plan. It also allows for a contribution of up to 25% of each employee’s pay. This is a type of retirement plan that is sponsored solely by the employer, and the contribution to each employee’s SEP IRA must be the same amount. Employees are not able to add their own contributions. Unlike other types of retirement plans, contributions from the employer can be flexible from year to year, which can help businesses that have fluctuations in their cash flow.4 Much like SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs are taxed as ordinary 30
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income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. The CARES Act applies to SEP IRAs, too. Generally, once you reach age 72, you must begin taking required minimum distributions.
401(k)s. 401(k) plans are funded by employee contributions, and, in some cases, with employer contributions as well. In most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 72. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. As of right now, the CARES Act exemptions apply only in the 2020 calendar year.5 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. Citations. 1 - IRS.gov, January 15, 2020 2 - IRS.gov, January 8, 2020 3 - IRS.gov, January 9, 2020 4 - IRS.gov, January 15, 2020 5 - U.S. Chamber of Commerce, February 20, 2020
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.
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What Exactly is
BY DR. NASIR ASGHAR
COVID-19 is not a virus. It is the disease caused by the SARSCoV-2 virus. A virus is defined as a microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate in another cell. A virus’s only purpose is to infect and replicate.
A Closer Look
• COVID-19 stands for CO (corona), VI (virus), D (disease), and 19, the year it was discovered (2019). • The virus itself SARS-CoV-2 stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. • The SARS-CoV-2 virus is a type of coronavirus. There are seven types of coronavirus. • Four types cause 15% of the common cold: 0C43, HKU1, 229E and NL63. • Three types cause severe respiratory disease: MERS, SARS-CoV and now the novel SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19).
humans in a wet market (marketplace that sells various animals for consumption). They are called coronavirus because under TEM (transmission electron microscopy) the virus has club shaped spikes all around the virus that make it look like an image of the solar corona (AKA the Sun). These spikes (peplomers) are used to help penetrate the targeted cell (especially cells in the lungs) by the virus. Once inside, the virus uses the cell's RNA (ribonucleic acid) to replicate itself and infect other cells. Major symptoms of this infection can be fever, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of smell. If you have any of these symptoms, please seek medical advice immediately. Please stay safe, and keep social distancing. Dr. Asghar has been in practice since 2006. He received his undergraduate degree in biology at Emory University and attended medical school at American University of the Caribbean. prestigemedicalgroup.org.
SARS-CoV-2 was first isolated in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. It most likely originated in bats, and then jumped to
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Canton
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Pregnant During a Pandemic BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC
Rebecca was beginning the third trimester of her second pregnancy when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in full force. Things around her quickly changed. Quarantine became a mandate, grocery stores began to run out of many products, and the phrase social distancing became a part of everyone’s vocabulary. Even routine visits to her obstetrician’s office began to look quite different. Rebecca had complete trust in her doctors, and was happy they made immediate changes to follow the CDC guidelines and go above and beyond to keep patients safe. Now at her appointments, Rebecca had her temperature checked by a gloved and masked nurse before entering the clinic. She, and all patients, had to wear masks as well as staff. The waiting room was reconfigured to accommodate the social distancing protocol. “I was kept up-to-date by emails, texts, and social media,” Rebecca said. “I felt well prepared as to what to expect, and, most importantly, felt completely safe.” In April, Rebecca went into labor. “The hospital was great at trying to make everything feel as normal as possible considering the circumstances,” she said. According to Rebecca, the hardest thing was family and friends couldn’t be there in the waiting room.
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Despite being 1-centimeter dilated when arriving at the hospital, Rebecca’s water broke immediately, and she delivered a beautiful healthy baby girl within 30 minutes of arrival. “I didn’t even have time for an epidural, and it was hard,” Rebecca said. “I did not think I could do it, but my doctor was tough when I needed her to be, but, also kind and encouraging.” Being pregnant and delivering during a pandemic was certainly different, but coming home proved to be so even more. Not having family and friends there to meet their new family member was sad. But, at least Rebecca’s mom was able to be there. Her mom had quarantined, so they felt safe having her visit. Taking care of and enjoying the baby has been their newest quarantine activity, along with searching for diapers and wipes in stores and online, as those are essential items that are harder to find in stock. But, Rebecca is thankful she has not run out and, mostly, that there has been no problem finding formula.
Cherokee Women's Health Specialists PC has seven physicians with offices in Canton and Woodstock. 770-720-7733. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.
Because of you, she will be fed this summer.
And so will thousands of other children.
Your generous contribution will help us serve thousands of children in Cherokee and the north metro. EASY WAYS YOUR FAMILY CAN HELP
Donate online, volunteer at www.mustministries.org or mail a check to P.O. Box 1717, Marietta, GA 30061
Š 2020 MUST Ministries. All rights reserved.
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Realtor Offers A Luxury Experi P
aige Pace knew at a young age she had a mind for business. Her entrepreneurial spirit kicked in as early as elementary school, when she started a neighborhood pet grooming and care endeavor called Paige’s Pet Pampering Service. Now the third-generation Realtor is five years into her career, and has enjoyed watching her business double each year. Paige credits her success to full service attention to clients, and the ability to operate with ease in an ever-changing digital world by leveraging innovative technology that assists her in navigating a competitive market and providing her clients the upper-hand in negotiations. “My business is truly a turnkey service, from our initial conversation, to the personalized buyer or seller consultation, and then during the contract to close process. It is my goal to streamline the service I provide and ensure all of my clients enjoy a luxury experience,” Paige said. “I am excited I am now also licensed to purchase properties for cash on behalf of OfferPad, a new service to assist my clients in an extremely quick selling process, if they are considering selling to an iBuyer.”
PHOTO BY ROBERT RAINBOW
Five Promises Paige Lives By
1. Traditional and non-traditional marketing. Paige uses guerilla and traditional marketing methods. Because each property and client are unique, “I customize my marketing, listing, buying, and pricing strategies to accommodate each of my clients.” 2. Client care. The transaction doesn’t end at the closing table. Being raised in an Italian household has taught her to treat everyone like family. “I am relationship oriented and results driven. I am here to be a resource to my clients, during the transaction and after the closing.” 3. Generations of experience. Paige grew up in the industry, and is a third-generation Realtor. The advantage of leveraging generations of experience helps her better serve her clients. 4. Full-service, luxury transactions at every price point. Whether the price point is $200,000 or $2 million, she believes each person deserves a luxury transition into their new home. 5. Listening, learning, adapting. Paige constantly seeks new ways to improve her clients’ experiences by incorporating the latest technology and marketing
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ence When Buying, Selling available. She also keeps her clients updated by using data and feedback always striving to exceed their expectations. “I am a strong believer that people remember not what is said, but the way you make them feel.”
The Path to Real Estate
you also get access to her A-team of experts: lenders, inspectors, and contractors who stop at nothing to deliver exceptional service to deliver you phenomenal results. The heartwarming part is that she coordinated efforts for a virtual closing and kept me safe through the process. I ultimately purchased the home of my dreams in less than 30 days. The icing on the cake was after I gained access to my home, Paige called to make sure all signage was removed. Paige is now my Agent for Life.”
The Atlanta native attended Georgia State University, where she studied English, Rhetoric and Composition, and Teaching English as a Second Language. Although she loved teaching, Paige preferred a non-conventional work Looking to the Future schedule that gave her time for volunteer work in the Paige’s goal is to continue to grow her client base by community. offering full-service attention, and expanding her “After speaking with my family and close work in the community. Paige is currently friends, I was inspired to pursue a real learning American Sign Language so estate license. Upon taking classes, she can help members of the deaf H O N O R S & AWA R D S I immediately fell in love with the community find their dream Best of Zillow for providing outstanding industry. My career enables homes through a seamless customer service. me to not only assist my transaction. Top 10% Society within Keller Williams for achieving clients in making an often “Growing up with a father an exceptional number of sales, top 20% stressful process simple, who was hard of hearing, in the United States. but also in giving back to inclusion has always been The Multi-Million Dollar Club within the Cobb Board the community through something I am passionate of Realtors for producing a high volume of volunteer work.” about, as I saw how many sales in the community. She volunteers through challenges and struggles he the YMCA as a little league faces daily not being able to Member of the Agent Leadership Council, which is a board of directors within Keller Williams. soccer coach, Boys and hear well,” she said. Girls Club, Special Olympics, “Daily I am thankful for Top 10 Individual Agents 2019, and through the Agent my business, network of Keller Williams Atlanta Perimeter Leadership Council at Keller professionals and, of course, Highest number of third quarter listings, Williams. Each Thanksgiving, she my incredible clients. I have Engel & Volkers. hosts a drive for a local food bank. been told that what sets me apart from others in my industry is my transparency, consistent communication Closing During a Crisis during the home buying and selling process as well Paige shares a testimonial from client Dawn as after the closing, ability to exceed expectations, and my Peurifoy, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention passion for getting the best deal possible for my clients.” employee who purchased a home during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Before you make one of the biggest decisions of Paige Pace & Associates your life, ask yourself the question: What makes a good of Keller Williams Atlanta Perimeter agent? Is it the license? Is it the number of sales? Is it the 706- 267- 9280 rapport or relationship? The answer is one word — Paige PA I G E PA C E @ K W. C O M • W W W. PA I G E PA C E . C O M — who became my agent during the most challenging time in history. While home tours were restricted and W W W. Z I L L O W. C O M / P R O F I L E / PA I G E - PA C E / lenders started shutting their doors, Paige leaped into W W W. L I N K E D I N . C O M / I N / PA I G E - PA C E - R E A LT O R / action and overcame multiple obstacles. When you 115 P E R I M E T E R C E N T E R P L A C E #100, AT L A N TA, G A 30346 secure Paige’s service, it is important to understand that
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Rob’s Rescues I interviewed Dr. David Steen when he was the research ecologist at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island. Dr. Steen is a Wildlife Scientist and Science Communicator. He is currently the Reptile and Amphibian Research Leader of the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute and the founder and executive director of The Alongside Wildlife Foundation (www.alongsidewildlifefoundation.org), and serves on the Board of Directors of the Wildlands Network. This is Part 2 of my interview with him. The first part was last month.
What do you love about turtles?
In your book, “Secrets of Snakes,” did you have any surprises when researching?
They are ancient survivors that have seen a lot over their lives.
The book was developed over 10 years of interacting with people and snakes. I learned a lot from citizen scientists – people who emailed videos and questions. A person in Arkansas sent a video of a Copperhead and a CottonMouth fighting. Combat is usually for reproductive purposes in snakes, this combat between different species raised more questions than answers. What were they fighting about? I worked with her to create a scientific paper out of this experience.
What is your favorite type of turtle and why?
The Loggerhead Sea Turtle, they live for ages against the odds. My favorite freshwater turtle is the painted turtle. Growing up I would see them in swamps and crossing roads (I didn’t realize it then but they were looking for nesting spots). Painted turtles tie it all together for me.
What puts turtles in danger and are they in trouble now?
What do you want people to know about turtles and snakes?
Sea turtles are in trouble in general. The Green Sea Turtle and the Loggerhead Sea Turtle are protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act, which has made a big difference. Sea turtles have in the past often been caught up in commercial fishing nets and drowned. Shrimp trawlers now utilized a Turtle Excluder Device in the nets, which allows turtles to escape nets through a trapdoor. During nesting season we also have people patrolling the beaches to protect the nests, which has been very positive for turtle survival.
Rob with Blondie dog and Linda Hunt of Act2Pups. 38
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Rob and Dr. David Steen.
I want to encourage people to appreciate the diversity of organisms on the planet. Snakes and turtles have secret lives we are still learning about. Stand back and observe their behaviors. If you see a turtle crossing the road – as long as you are not at risk, move the turtle to the opposite side of the road, in the direction it was going.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. www.robsrescues.com. On Facebook @robsrescues.
Rob and Mr. Brown the dog.
Act2Pups is a group that rescues senior dogs, mostly from Cobb County Animal Services. These two dogs are from Act2Pups. Blondie is more than 10 years old and is 13 pounds. She is a beautiful dog and ready for a great home. Mr. Brown came to the shelter with her, and they have always lived together and need a home together. Mr. Brown walks well on a leash and is also more than 10 years old. He loves sniffing around a backyard and would love a home.
Keep Your Pets Safe in Summer BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY
When we think about summer in Georgia, the most common thought that comes to mind is, “Wow, it’s hot outside!” This is definitely true, but it’s even worse for our furry friends. Keep these things in mind to make sure your pets stay cool and safe during the heat of the summer.
Beat the Heat
Essentially, pets are wearing a fur coat everyday. They cannot cool off as efficiently as humans. Please avoid taking pets out during the heat of the day, typically from mid-morning to early evening. Any type of running or exercise should be avoided during these periods. Pets need access to cooling areas, such as air conditioning, and should have access to fresh, clean, cool water at all times. A shady spot outside is not enough because, although it might be shady now, in an hour or two, that same spot might be in the blazing sun. Pets can get overheated and dehydrated very quickly and even develop devastating consequences such as heatstroke. Pets should never be left in a car, even for the briefest periods. Pets that have long, knotted hair coats should be groomed to allow air to keep them cool. Also, avoid sidewalks and pavement because those areas get hot quickly and can burn your pet’s paw pads.
Backyard Safety
If you have a pool, make sure you keep a close eye on your pets. Often, young or elderly pets can fall into the pool, cannot get out, and drown. Take care when hosting backyard barbecues. Remind guests to not feed your pets greasy, fatty or spicy foods. They can cause serious digestive issues.
Careful of Critters
Warm weather brings out pests of all kinds, but some can be especially harmful. Summer is prime tick season, and tick bites can spread nasty diseases. Once ticks get into our homes, they can lay thousands of eggs, and be almost impossible to remove. The warm weather also brings out bees that can sting pets, causing a chance of allergic reaction. Also, watch for venomous snakes and spiders, which are more active during the summer.
Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry has been an associate veterinarian of the BridgeMill Animal Hospital team since 2015.
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EVERYDAY Everyday Angels exists to help those in need in the community during their most pressing time. It’s also important to us to follow up with the folks we feature, so you can get updates on the men, women and children you’ve prayed for and supported in so many ways. As we struggle to adjust to our new normal, these brave warriors remind us of the true meaning of hardship. While we may miss the hugs, handshakes, and socialization we often took for granted, we must remain grateful for good health, the love of family, friends and community – especially during this time. We must support one another and be grateful for the individual sacrifices that help our communities to stay safe.
Ellie Draughan’s
senior year of high school was not only disrupted by the pandemic, but also with a diagnosis of osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Diagnosed last summer, Ellie just completed a year of aggressive treatment and plans to attend Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville in the fall. Ellie will continue physical therapy and she is looking forward to moving on with her life, cancer-free – God willing.
Allie Chambers
is a young wife and mom whose recurrence of stage 4 breast cancer sparked a firestorm of community support when we featured her in July 2019. Last month, Allie began her third round of cancer treatments. The four-week cycle of chemotherapy costs $40,000! Her scans have been positive but, most recently, a few small spots on her liver have appeared. “We hope and pray these next treatments will clear everything up and no more treatments will be necessary,” said Jonathan, Allie’s husband. Our community has been amazing so far, but more support is needed. You may follow Allie’s story on Facebook, at Allie’s Rally Against Breast Cancer, or their GoFundMe Page. www.gofundme.com/f/rallyforallie.
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Hyrum Harris was diagnosed with leukemia in December 2019. Hyrum has Down syndrome, so life has been anything but easy. He and his amazing mom, April, continue his necessary and aggressive treatments in and out of the hospital. Hyrum’s body has been beaten up from the inside out over the last eight-plus months. “You would think that all that Hyrum has endured, he would have a bad day from time to time. But he never does. Every day is a good day. Every day he finds a way to feel joy and laugh and dance to the music. The greatest gift of having Down syndrome is the ability to love uninhibited and see the world with only compassion and love,” April said. She documents each day on her Instagram account, pr3ttylittleladies. Following Hyrum’s story gives us all a glimpse of perspective, hope and joy. Hyrum is a gift, and April’s gift of writing is a blessing as well. Please continue to support and follow their journey. 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
Communicating With Masks BY DR. HAIDEN NUNN
COVID-19 has brought a path of destruction, fear and change to our lives. With this change, the use of face masks has become common, and has created many difficulties for people with a hearing impairment. People with a hearing impairment rely on different communication strategies to understand the conversation. Those strategies include using facial cues and lip reading, which can be hard to do with a face mask. Take these strategies away, and the hearing-impaired struggle to understand what is being said. There are a few tips that we can use when trying to communicate effectively while wearing a mask. 1. First and foremost, do not remove your mask to speak. It is there to protect yourself and others. 2. Do not yell. Speaking slightly elevated, but in a natural tone, is best for understanding. Do not overenunciate your words. 3. Slow down. Speaking too fast (with or without the mask) makes understanding difficult. 4. If your message is not received well, try rephrasing it, rather than repeating the words that were not understood. 5. Body language is an important communication tool. Using gestures and pointing can help fill in the missing pieces. 6. Get their attention before speaking. Sometimes, saying a person’s name before talking to them helps them become more attentive to the conversation. 7. Be mindful of your environment. Too much background noise can cause problems with clarity and understanding. 8. If you are hearing-impaired, try asking for repetition if you did not understand the message. In these trying times, it is important to be your own advocate! Be persistent. 9. Prevent the loss of your hearing devices by making sure you do not pull your mask on and off too quickly. Always make sure your devices are in place and secure. 10. If all else fails, you can use paper and pen, or your smartphone, to write out the message. Many people with hearing impairment wear hearing devices. While those devices may help in noisy situations, they do not always do a good job at helping with the muffled speech that a mask creates. The hearing-impaired cannot rely on the devices alone to help them understand. Using the devices, together with these communication tips, can help compensate for the loss of facial cues and lip reading.
An Open Letter To Our Patrons
Stand still . . . pause . . . reflect . . . and Move Forward motivated by the future. We can’t wait for our 35th season when we dim the house lights and are transported to a time of open laughter, collective sorrow or the briefest glimpse into our mortal selves. Celebrate the joys of Live Theatre. Please check our website cherokeetheatre.org for calendar and show postings.
Stay well and blessed Ed Palombo
Founder, Cherokee Theatre Company WWW.CHEROKEETHEATRE.ORG
Dr. Haiden Nunn joined North Georgia Audiology in 2018. She earned her doctorate from the University of Louisville and her bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia.
Playing at Canton Theatre • 171 Main St., Canton, GA
Box Office 770-591-0282 | info@cherokeetheatre.org Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114
FOLLOW US Because CTC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible.
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From the NAV launch, July 1, 2019, from left: Jim Nichols, Half Machine; Charles Chidi Igwilo, NAV mentor; Kevin Monroe, NAV mentor; Joe Hammond-Swain, Red Barn Real Estate and community advocate.
Business As Unusual
Programs collaborate for entrepreneurship across state lines. BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service (NAV) celebrated the one-year anniversary of its launch on July 1. NAV, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Venture Mentoring Service-trained model of team-based mentorship for entrepreneurs and startups, is powered by Fresh Start Cherokee — the entrepreneurship initiative of the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED). Headquartered in Cherokee County, NAV came to fruition as a direct result of the Cherokee By Choice Initiative, a five-year public-private partnership and economic advancement campaign.
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NAV kicked off its pilot year with the adoption of a state resolution recognizing July 1, 2019, as Entrepreneurship Day in Georgia, and presented the first Cherokee Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Spencer Nix and Nick Downs, co-founders of Reformation Brewery. With 10 venture companies and 27 mentors in its first year, NAV is well-positioned to make Cherokee County and the Atlanta region the No. 1 place in the state to start and grow a business. NAV celebrated its first year of operations by pushing the bounds of mentorship beyond state lines. Recently, NAV virtually co-hosted its first-ever city-tocity monthly mentoring meeting with sister program Innovate Charlotte in North Carolina, to share best
practices and form a collaborative relationship. From North Atlanta to Charlotte, 38 ventures are being supported by a group of 81 diverse mentors through the power of MIT’s team-based mentorship model, a proven model 20 years in the making, with more than 100 chapters in 25 countries around the world. “Now, more than ever, it is important for our region to offer this support system for startups. NAV’s brain trust of diverse, expert guides for local entrepreneurs helps them not only become stronger entrepreneurs but build better businesses and healthier communities,” COED President Misti Martin said. NAV is managed by Jonathan Chambers and coordinated by Ellie Colt, and is intentional with its approach to diversity and inclusion, with 25% of mentors and 70% of ventures led by women and minorities from six different countries. Representing more than 60 mentors, program leaders told stories at the meeting of how their programs got started. Ventures from both programs were presented, and those involved spoke to how team-based mentorship has been vital to their business, especially during COVID-19. Harry and Leticia Hutchins, co-founders of Alma Coffee, a farm-to-cup coffee brand headquartered in Cherokee County, shared how NAV has helped them lean into mentorship and successfully pivot their business model during the pandemic. Similarly, Innovate Charlotte venture Bustld, an online marketing platform led by Samie and Ryan Roberts that connects engaged couples to wedding vendors, spoke of their experience. Members from both ventures talked about how mentorship has given them trusted connections, provided unique entrepreneurial development opportunities, and has helped them identify blind spots in their businesses. "Collaborating enables us to cross-pollinate between the two groups,” Innovate Charlotte mentor Dan Black said. For the foreseeable future, NAV and Innovate Charlotte will continue their collaboration, in hopes of growing better programs for even stronger entrepreneurs. If you are interested in learning more about NAV, visit northatlantavms.com.
“
NAV allows seasoned executives to share their experiences with entrepreneurs as a resource to help them develop and execute their own unique business plans and growth strategies. - Aaron Ingram, NAV Mentor.
”
27 Mentors, 10 Ventures
Ventures are minority/women led
Different countries represented
NAV mentors are minorities The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention & expansion. www.cherokeega.org.
“
NAV provides a unique & proven process and discipline to guide, assist and encourage entrepreneurial opportunities. Team mentoring works. - Buzz Ahrens, NAV Mentor.
”
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~Back to School~
Organization Made Easy BY PACITA WILSON
It’s hard to believe the upcoming school year is just around the corner, but it will be here before we know it. As a mother of two boys, organizing my mudroom was always a crucial task before starting back to school. From one mother to another, I hope these useful tips will help enable your mudroom to flow with style. As we transition from summer to fall, we can find easy ways to create an organized drop zone where the kids can leave their book bags, shoes or jackets while keeping in mind the overall décor of your home. First, create a designated area for storage space, specifically for smaller items, such as shoes, sports equipment or school supplies, so children can access them easily. Adding simple storage solutions, like shelving, can be both decorative and functional while keeping everyday items neat and tidy. To take it a step further, add stylish lightweight baskets to help organize the space. Ultimately, the room will feel clutter-free and timeless. Another great way to utilize the drop-off point is to take advantage of wall space to avoid clutter. You can achieve this by adding a location for hanging items. For example, including a clothing rack in your entryway is a great option. This instantly will create an area assigned for jackets, lunch boxes or bookbags, and will help eliminate items being placed on the floor. Incorporating organization in your drop zones doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice design. Be creative when it comes to adding pieces in your home that will lead to a clutter-free environment. With these easy steps, you will be starting the school year off in the right direction.
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Spaces for shoes, books and coats flank this entryway. Pacita Wilson is the owner of Pineapple Park Home. www.pineapplepark.com
An Elm Street Temperature Check BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
I typically write to highlight the arts, a specific upcoming event, or maybe respond to something happening in our community. I think those topics are important, but we have a great community that supports us, and we’ve received some questions I want to answer. Increasingly, you are reaching out to ask questions about the pandemic: “Hey Christopher, with COVID-19 going on, how is Elm Street doing right now ... financially?” First, you need to know I have nothing but love and appreciation for this question. Often, the question is prefaced with, “This may be awkward, but ...” You should know A.) I believe that Elm Street is the community’s organization (I’m proud when you feel ownership to ask), and B.) asking it shows that you love and care for the organization, too. I also believe in transparency, so with that said, it is impossible to give you a complete financial picture here, so feel free to ask for more information.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
She Kills Monsters Crystal Bowersox Play | Theatre Season
AUG 7 - 23, 2020
Indie Folk|Lantern Series
Recommended for ages 16+
AUG 15, 2020
David Nail
The Black Market Trust
Modern Country|Lantern Series
Swing Jazz|Lantern Series
The Good News
• We were one of the first organizations to get Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding. • I'm proud of our staff. They’ve worked hard and cut expenses by more than $50,000 since March. • Elm Street is one of 19 organizations in the state to win a $50,000 relief grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. This news came just in time as our PPP funding ran out. A huge win and national recognition for Woodstock. • No one has been furloughed (As with everyone, I’m really trying to avoid this). • We still have healthy reserves (about three months at a normal operating pace, four to five months at a slowed-down pace).
AUG 29, 2020
SEPT 26, 2020
Between a lack of expenses, donations from you, our community, and a few grants, that’s a $150,000 dent to the good.
The Not So Good News
• Eighty percent of our budget is earned revenue (tickets, concessions, class registrations) and March to July is typically when we see that.
It is important to note that any money donated toward the Reeves House has not (and will not) be touched, it is solely dedicated to that construction. You’ve given, called, cared in so many ways. We are so grateful. So, as Elm Street opens up programming, we are taking extra precautions. There is too much at stake from a health and financial standpoint for us not to.
Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.
SUBSCRIPTIONS &
SINGLE TICKETS AVAILABLE
THEATRE SERIES
She Kills Monsters Dogfight the Musical Alice in Wonderland Jr. A Christmas Carol Freaky Friday the Musical 26 Pebbles Sister Act the Musical How I Became a Pirate Junie B. Jones the Musical
LANTERN SERIES Crystal Bowersox JigJam David Nail VoicePlay Black Market Trust We Banjo 3 Time for Three Little Texas Gina Chavez Swedish Jam Factory Laila Biali Ian Sherwood
DATES AND INFO AT ELMSTREETARTS.ORG
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Senior Extravaganza Goes Virtual This Year PROVIDED BY THE CHEROKEE TRIAD S.A.L.T. COUNCIL
The annual fundraiser for the Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. Council, known as the Senior Extravaganza, will be held virtually this year, at 10 a.m. Aug. 8, and can be viewed at www.saltcherokee.com. The event will feature entertainment, door prizes, and access information from the sponsors and vendors who work with our seniors on a daily basis. Director Nathan Brandon will be the emcee and will direct you on how to reach out to these companies. To win a door prize, you must register at www.saltcherokee.com. The Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. Council was implemented in July 2006, starting with the Canton Police Department. Now we work with all Cherokee County law enforcement agencies. Our goal is to reduce the criminal victimization of older adults by educating them about current crime issues and relevant subjects, enhancing delivery of law enforcement services when we receive or discover a need, and linking the businesses that provide services with the appropriate individuals.
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We are a 501(c)(3) organization and rely on the community’s support. The extravaganza allows us to raise funds to provide the following programs. For more information email cherokeetriad@gmail.com.
• Lunch and Learn
These gatherings provide lunch along with a speaker on relevant topics to keep our seniors safe, or educate them on programs that can enhance their lives. In our “new normal” of social distancing and trying to keep everyone safe, we are investigating a virtual session.
• Support Bethesda Community Clinic
This program provides annual support to assist seniors and veterans with necessary health care assistance. These are individuals who might not receive medical assistance due to the lack of health care coverage, finances or distance to care.
• File of Life
This is a packet, provided at no cost to seniors, that they can complete with their latest medical information, such as allergies, medications, contact persons and more – all in one safe place – for family or first responders to access in an emergency situation. The mini medical file is kept in a bright red plastic folder with a magnetic strip so seniors can adhere it to their refrigerator, where it can easily be found in an emergency.
• Assist First Responders
This program assists Cherokee County first responders by providing emergency funds for those age 55 and older who are homeless or in distress, which would include temporary housing, meals and other immediate needs.
• Elder Abuse Multidisciplinary Task Force
This program provides funds to support and promote continued collaboration between the district attorney’s office, the Georgia Division of Aging, Adult Protective Service staff members and Cherokee County law enforcement agencies.
E NJ OY A DE ST I N AT IO N C HE RO K E E
STA YCAT IO N!
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School News High School Student Is First at 4-H Morgan Conner, a rising senior at Cherokee High School, earned first place in Communications at the Georgia 4-H Northwest District Project Achievement Competition, and is advancing to the state 4-H Congress event this fall with her Morgan Conner project. Thirty-eight students, in grades 7-12 from the Cherokee County School District, participated in the event, competing in a field of 582 students. For the contest, students chose an area of interest, researched it, created a portfolio and made a presentation. Students were judged on their presentation and portfolio, which included their project work, as well as information about their leadership and citizenship activities, and community service.
2020 Graduates Selected for Scholarships ABM Industry Groups, the company that provides custodial services for Cherokee County schools, each year awards a $1,000 scholarship to one graduating senior from each of the district’s high schools. The six winners are selected by a scholarship committee of retired Cherokee County educators and ABM representatives, based on a student’s involvement in school, and community activities and service; personal essays; and references. Local winners were Lauren Haymore of Cherokee High School, who is headed to Utah Valley University in pursuit of a medical career; Margaret Klements of Creekview High School, who will attend Kennesaw State University to study accounting; Jack Belisle of Sequoyah High School, who is headed to Georgia State University to study computer science; and Ella Elbeck of Woodstock High School, who plans to study biological sciences at Cornell University. 48
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Lauren Haymore
Margaret Klements
Jack Belisle
Ella Elbeck
A Chance for Teens to Make a Difference BY JEFF BENNETT
The Cherokee County Youth Council is a group of enthusiastic, hardworking and creative students seeking to make an impact in our community. Through leadership training, civic involvement and prevention advocacy, students learn to have an active voice on topics that are greatly affecting their age group: marijuana and prescription drug use, alcohol consumption, cyber bullying, teen suicide and general health issues. Students in grades 8-12 are coming together to get educated on what really is going on in their community, and working with one another to help bring about change and lead their peers. Our goal is to be present as an example, educator and friend to the kids who face these struggles and issues in their lives. Primarily, we hope to reach kids at or before the age they will be in these compromising situations, to help them understand that they are in control of their future and can decide what their future looks like. Through leadership training and civic involvement, we hope to educate our young leaders how to promote a positive message that young people do not need drugs and alcohol to have a good time, how to be a better friend by not accepting online negative messages, and how to live a better, healthier lifestyle. We hope to have representation from every school, home school, religious organization, club, team and everything in between. The council is for the YOUTH of Cherokee County who would like to make the place they live, and the friends and family they love, just a little bit better. The students who become a part of this organization will have the opportunity to be trained by local leaders, as well as experts from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America and the Georgia Teen Institute. This experience gives students a chance to collaborate and learn from people outside of Cherokee County. Because of these amazing opportunities, we are seeking the best of the best. Teens are not too young to make a difference and have a voice, and each student in this organization will finish each year with a sense of pride and accomplishment. An informational meeting is scheduled for Aug. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Cherokee FOCUS office in Holly Springs. The youth council is supported by Cherokee FOCUS, Drug Free Cherokee, the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, and grants from the Drug Free Communities program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Parents and students interested in getting involved or wanting more information can contact Jeff Bennett at CCYCLeaders@gmail.com and Michael Carpenter at drmichaelc@comcast.net.
Cherokee County native Jeff Bennett, a veteran counselor with the Cherokee County School District, has a passion for youth leadership development and community engagement. He has been recognized locally, regionally and nationally for making an impact on young people.
Schools Always Need Community Support We rely upon the PTA and the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) to help us with the wants. The PTA fundraising During our spring school closures, due to the pandemic, we builds playgrounds, buys iPads, and treats our teachers and staff saw an incredible outpouring of care for our students to recognition and appreciation lunches and small gifts. CCEF’s in need. fundraising provides scholarships for students Individuals, families and businesses made who can’t afford credit recovery classes to We need and donations to help cover the costs of providing graduate on time, and provides grants for any child who needed help with a weekly appreciate it when teachers with ideas for new lesson plans that bag of breakfasts and lunches. While the U.S. require supplies or equipment outside the you buy locally, Department of Agriculture covers the cost of regular school budget. providing free or low-cost breakfast and lunch Both the PTA and CCEF accept financial and support during school to students whose families donations, great and small, and both have our education qualify for assistance, this need grew during opportunities for donors who give larger sums the closures, as families lost income due to to receive public recognition. special local furloughs and layoffs. The community donated To help the PTA, please call your child’s option sales tax ... school more than $164,000 to this cause. We are so or, if you’re not a parent, call your grateful for this giving. neighborhood school to request the contact As I write this, we do not know whether information for its PTA. You also can contact all our schools will have to close again due to pandemic the Cherokee County Council PTA president, as this group restrictions, sparking the need for us to offer a to-go meal oversees all of CCSD’s school PTAs, at cccptapres@gmail.com. program again. Visit www.cherokeecountyeducationalfoundation.org But, I know that we always need our community’s support to to help CCEF. There, you can learn about upcoming fundraisers, improve our schools. or make a donation online for the amount of your choice. The We need and appreciate it when your property tax bill and foundation has 501(c)(3) status, so your donation may be taxstate income tax bill are paid on time, as this revenue pays our deductible. teachers and staff, keeps the lights on, and buys the bus fuel. Thank you for your continued support of our school district. It We need and appreciate it when you buy locally, and support benefits our students, our teachers and staff, and our community our education special local option sales tax, as this revenue as a whole! builds and renovates schools, buys school buses and technology, pays for land for future schools, and pays off the mortgage on past construction projects. Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer Those tax dollars cover our needs, but not the wants, for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD and those wants are expenses that can make a big positive parent with four children. difference for our students and teachers. BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
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Makeover Gives A New Lease on Life BY TIM TIMMONS
The past few years have been difficult for Cheryl. She lost her husband seven years ago, followed by the death of her dog this past spring. It’s been a difficult time for her, losing her husband of 50-plus years – he was her soulmate and best friend. While mourning the recent death of her dog, Cheryl came across the May issue of Around Woodstock, and read the article featuring the monthly Salon Gloss makeover. Cheryl thought the makeover might just be the answer to help improve her outlook on life, and she was right. My assistant Brandon and I were able to help transform Cheryl, and provide her with the motivation she needed. “Tim and Brandon were so nice to me, and when Tim turned my chair around and I saw my hair for the first time, I cried,” Cheryl said. They were tears of joy, as the new style provided the confidence she needed to feel rejuvenated and ready for a new attitude on life. “He made me look 20 years younger and I truly felt like a new person,” she said. After a thorough consultation, I decided Cheryl’s natural tone of gray hair was not complementing her complexion or spirit. Her fair skin and white hair gave Cheryl an ashy look. She needed warmth in her hair to balance out her fair skin tone. I also recommended a style that would complement Cheryl’s square face. We removed the width from her hair by cutting the sides and back shorter, and keeping length on the top. The result was a cute, low maintenance and multi-dimensional pixie cut that complemented her. Salon Gloss stylist Gayana chose a makeup color palette that would warm up Cheryl‘s skin tone. “I wanted to emphasize Cheryl‘s eyes and so I chose a smoky eye palette to give her the illusion of more lift. I accented her cheeks with bronze tones and her face was finished off with a trendy soft pink lipstick,” Gayana said. Cheryl’s transformation was completed with a new outfit in bright summer colors. Her outfit included images of birds, which I thought was very appropriate for her circumstances. Cheryl came into the salon defeated with a sad composure, but she left a new person, ready to soar with a new outlook on life. I’ve never experienced a client’s persona change so much after seeing their new style. Cheryl’s transformation – physically and mentally - was truly amazing. “My kids and grandkids have been so excited about my transformation with the new look. They have helped me realize that it's OK to move on. It’s my time, and I’m grateful that Salon Gloss was able to be there to help launch this journey. I’m excited to see what the future brings,” Cheryl said.
BEFORE
Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss and Spa Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and MTV video music awards.
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AFTER
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Around & About
Editor's Note: Be sure to check each website for the most updated information.
SEPTEMBER
AUGUST
14
Northside Hospital’s Movies in the Park is featuring “The Lego Movie: The Second Part” beginning at 8:30 p.m. in Brown Park, 251 E. Marietta St. For details, call 770-704-1548 or check the Downtown Canton GA Facebook page.
15 It 5K
The sixth annual Chick-fil-A's Moo've , a fundraiser for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and the county’s Special Olympics, will take place at Etowah River Park in Canton. Details at chickfilamooveit5k.itsyourrace.com.
County Fire & Emergency 11 Cherokee Services is offering several American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED courses. Registration also is open for Nov. 13 and Dec. 11 sessions, at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Fee is $25. www.cherokeecountyfire.org.
our Military Heroes is 12 Supporting the theme of the Cherokee Veterans
Community fundraiser at First Baptist Church Woodstock. The event includes a motorcycle ride through Cherokee County with an Honor Ride through the national cemetery in Canton. This year, classic cars are invited to join the ride. For more information, contact 678-570-5828 or veteransministry@fbcw.net. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org.
My Lambs Golf Classic will take 21 Feed place at the Marietta Country Club. Feed
My Lambs operates free Christian preschools, one of which is in Canton. For more information, visit www.feedmylambsgolf.givesmart.com.
NOVEMBER PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID RUFF
Chamber of Commerce 17 GolfCherokee Classic The
is set for 8:30 a.m. registration and a 10 a.m. shotgun start at Woodmont Golf & Country Club, 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton. Registration and meals will be handled following appropriate social distancing protocols. Two players per cart, unless a single cart is requested. For registration information, contact Gini Mizelle at 770-345-0400 or gini@ cherokeechamber.com.
Young Life Golf Tournament at 18 Woodmont Golf and Country Club, with
tee time at 12:30 p.m. Registration and the range open at 11:15 a.m., with lunch at 11:30 a.m. Fourplayer scramble. 470-377-1235. cherokeecounty. younglife@gmail.com.
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The Etowah Wing and Rock Festival is set for noon-7 p.m. Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday, at Etowah River Park. Featuring wings from more than 20 restaurants. Voted one of the Top 10 Food Festivals in the Southeast by Festival Rooster. www.wingandrockfest.com.
THE LANTERN SERIES At the Elm Street Event Green, shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at www.elmstreetarts.org
Aug. 15: Aug. 29: Sept. 19: Sept. 26: Oct. 17:
Crystal Bowersox David Nail VoicePlay The Black Market Trust We Banjo 3
FIRST FRIDAYS IN CANTON 6-9 p.m. downtown www.DowntownCantonGA.com
Aug. 7: Sept. 4: Oct. 2: Oct. 30:
Kinchafoonee Cowboys Cody Bolden & Whiskey Business The Sensational Sounds of Motown Anita & The Party Life Band (wear your Halloween costume) Nov. 6: Electric Avenue Dec. 31: The Rupert’s Orchestra
CANTON RIVER ROCK CONCERT SERIES At the Etowah River Park 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton www.cantonga.gov Aug. 15: Johnny Wild and the Delights (’50s and ’60s dance hits) Sept. 19: On the Border (Eagles tribute)
FARMERS MARKETS Canton Farmers Market
Open every Saturday through Oct. 24, and will be open 9 a.m.-noon in Brown Park. Initially, participants will be limited to growers, prepackaged foods and prepared food vendors. www.cantonga.gov.
Farmers Market at River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, meets 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays. On Facebook.
The Market at The Mill on Etowah A weekly event, 5:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays, featuring farmers, makers, creators and artists. On Facebook.
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market
Now open, featuring some alternative ways to connect shoppers with farmers. www.woodstockga.gov.
PHOTOS BY TEENA COOGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 Jennifer@AroundaboutMagazines.com
August 2020
ANIMALS/PETS BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com
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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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ATTORNEYS Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Tidwell Strimban Injury Law 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
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AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
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BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906
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BEAUTY SALON & SPA Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz
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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS INWDSTK 53 inwdstk.org/events CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
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Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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Inside front
DENTAL BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.bridgemilldentistry.com
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Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com 54
ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry 470-523-8090 www.toothtownpd.com
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EDUCATION/TRAINING Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com
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ENTERTAINMENT/FESTIVALS
AROUND CANTON | August 2020
HEALTH & WELLNESS Your CBD Store Canton 770-704-0550 www.cantonga.cbdrx4u.com
5
HOME IMPROVEMENT/REPAIR Best Friends Flooring 678-814-9426 www.bestfriendsflooring.com
3
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
9
ckb kitchen| bath|more 770-485-0911 www.ckbpros.com
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Cherokee Staycation www.cherokeechamber.com
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Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
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ClearView Softwash & Pressure Washing 46 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
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Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com
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FIrst Fridays www.cantonga.gov
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9
Kennesaw State Owls Football www.ksuowls.com/tickets
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Myst Power Washing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com
1
Reinhardt University Eagles Football www.reinhardteagles.com
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Precision Plumbing 678-758-3493 www.precisionplumbingpros.com
EVENT VENUE Historic Rock Barn 770-802-9557 www.renttherockbarn.com
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Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com
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Edward Jones Sarah Kendall 1 770-720-6245 www.edwardjones.com/sarah-kendall Skye Mendelson CPA 770-369-3532 www.skyemendelson.com
3
FUNERAL HOMES Darby Funeral Home 770-479-2193 www.darbyfuneralhome.com
Sundance Pressure and Seal 26 O: 770-720-2303 C: 404-771-0071 www.sundancepressureandseal.com LANDSCAPING AND LAWN CARE
FINANCIAL SERVICES
CREDIT UNION
LGE Community Credit Union 770-424-0060 www.lgeccu.org
Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 32 770-592-5554 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com
3
Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
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Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com
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Joyful Day Photography wwww.joyfuldayphoto.com
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For information on all of our titles, visit
www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Governors MedSpa and Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES
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Plastic Surgery Center of the South 44 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Prestige Medical Group BridgeMill: 678-494-9669 Canton: 678-880-7021 Jasper: 706-692-9768 www.prestigemedicalgroup.org
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Paige Pace & Associates — Keller Williams 706-267-9280 www.paigepace.com
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Residential Funding Consultants Cover, 28, 29 470-303-0087 www.residentialfundingconsultants.com/ joshua-dean RESTAURANTS 7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurants 7 Holly Springs 678-217-7770 Canton 770-479-0847 www.7tequilasmexicanrestaurant.com
Pineapple Park 678-494-8494 www.pineapplepark.com Jackson West Candle Company www.jacksonwestcandleco.com
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SENIOR LIVING/SENIOR SERVICES Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-990-5055 www.manorlakebr.com
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S.A.L.T. Extravaganza www.saltcherokee.com
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SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Next Step Ministries www.nextstepministries.net
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RETAILERS Golf Cars of Canton 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com
Back cover
AROUND CANTON | August 2020
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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.
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. 56
AROUND CANTON | August 2020
Around Canton
Distribution Map Circulation: 25,000