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Contents
Contributors
August 2021
34 Judy Abbott
46 Tommy Allegood
DayBreak Village
38 Ryan Blythe
34 Jennifer Bonn
Senior Living Community
35 Wayne Dennard
On the Cover
25 Greg Fonzeno
Executive Chef Travis Hubert and the owners and staff of the senior living community treat residents, such as Mary Jean and Keiko on the cover, like family.
36 J.R. Lee
26 Rob Macmillan
44 Caroline Martin
40 Linda Mummert
Pages 28 & 29
14 Abbie Parks
Cover photo by Beth Fornuto
32 Linda Purvis
18 Susan Schulz
30 Elisabeth Stubbs
37 Dr. Mary Swantek 40 Mike Walls
16 Kim Wigington 34 Joel Williams
26 WorkSource Cobb
In Every Issue 4 Around Acworth
14
8 Local News
No Place Like Home
Learn the story behind the home that once belonged to one of Acworth’s first families.
22
Catching up With Caroline
Find out how this Allatoona graduate has made a difference as Miss Teen of America.
40
Pickleball, Y’all!
The sport with a funny name is taking Cobb County by storm.
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
14 Acworth History 17 Celebrations
24 Library Events 42 Senior Events 44 Rob’s Rescues
46 Growing Gardeners
47 Downtown Dining Guide 48 Community Calendar
50 Allatoona Lake Cove Map 51 Downtown Dining Guide
52 Cobb Photographic Society 54 Directory of Advertisers
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Around Acworth
Welcome!
Letter From the Editor
I’m happy to say that the staff at Aroundabout Local Media is busier than ever, uniting the communities we serve. That number of publications has risen to five, with the addition of Around Kennesaw! Starting this month, 17,000 copies of this hyperlocal publication will be distributed by mail and in racks throughout that historic city. It’s become clear as we’ve prepared the first issue that Kennesaw residents and business owners are happy to hear we’ve come to their town. We’ve enjoyed learning more about the city in this process. Did you know it was called Big Shanty from the time it was established on a railroad line in the 1830s until it was incorporated as the city of Kennesaw in 1887? Of course you did, because Acworth and Kennesaw history buffs often join forces. Before the pandemic, Save Acworth History Foundation and Kennesaw Historical Society sponsored a monthly speaker series with the location rotating between the neighboring towns. In fact, the cities share a lot of things… a library, schools, churches, businesses on Cobb Parkway and, now, a magazine editor! Seriously, I lost count of the Acworth ribbon cuttings at businesses with Kennesaw mailing addresses. If you think print is only for history books and documents from the past, I’m here to tell you it’s not! Aroundabout Local Media has created a successful model of bringing positive and relevant information to our readers, while helping our local businesses prosper and grow. It began with the first issue of the TowneLaker, published 25 years ago. The longevity of this publication and its parent company, with new magazines added throughout the years, shows that our readers still love to get a sleek, glossy product in their mailboxes, absorb it from cover to cover, and keep it on the coffee table to refer to throughout the month. In a small way, I feel like we’ve become a part of your family. We often hear from our readers, and we love sharing their news with you. We do this through our Local News section (Page 8), celebrating birthdays and milestones (Page 17) and special features each month, such as the update on Acworth’s own Miss Teen of America, Caroline Martin (Page 22). With these glimpses into our community, we hope to continue enhancing the local culture and fostering a sense of pride in our special corner of the county.
Savannah Winn
Graphic designer Savannah Winn has joined the Aroundabout Local Media staff. The Georgia native graduated from Kennesaw State University in 2020 with a bachelor’s of fine arts in graphic communications and a minor in marketing.
What’s Happening
Brian Bulthuis
James Albright
Last month, city officials celebrated Brian Bulthuis for his 25 years of service as Acworth city manager, and congratulated him on retirement. He was instrumental in the city’s growth during his tenure and oversaw numerous improvement projects. Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Resources Department James Albright has been appointed city manager. For more information, flip to Mayor Tommy Allegood’s letter on Page 12.
What’s New
The Fountain, a craft cocktail bar and quick counter
service restaurant, is officially open for lunch and dinner, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays. Located at 4843 North Main Street, The Fountain serves classic and fun cocktails, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. 687-403-8898.
Ribbon Cuttings
Charlie’s Angels Movers
4489 Acworth Industrial Drive, Acworth 678-523-5353. www.charliesangelsmovers.com.
Kindness Challenge of the Month
Sweeten Someone’s Day. When checking out at the
grocery store, ask your cashier what their favorite candy bar is, and buy it for them. A sweet treat is almost always welcomed!
Katie Beall Katie Beall is managing editor and title editor of Around Acworth. Send your comments or questions to Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
North Georgia Exotics
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Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | TowneLaker www.AroundaboutLocalMedia.com
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
“We received a great response to our cover story and were very pleased with how it turned out. Thank you so much!” — Elizabeth Cossick North Cobb Christian School
Advertise With Us
Jennifer Coleman, Director of Marketing 678-279-5502 Jen@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Get Social With Us! @aroundacworthmagazine @around_acworth
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 Jen@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Assistant Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 Jessica@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Graphic Designer Savannah Winn Savannah@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt Kat@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers Around Acworth, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are directly mailed to homes and businesses, and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Acworth welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Acworth 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 2021 Around Acworth
1025 Rose Creek Dr., PMB 380, Ste. 620 Woodstock, GA 30189
www.AroundAcworthMagazine.com
www.AroundAcworthMagazine.com 6
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
Volume 6, Issue 1
America’s Community Magazine
I’M PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE
I RANKED IN THE
TOP 350 PRODUCERS OF 2020!
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home. Jay clearly communicated our options and kept things moving along. Jay's team was quick to respond as well and the systems they have in place helped make this whole process a breeze. If you are looking to refinance your home, don't hesitate to reach out to Jay. We're so glad we did.
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Local News
Holmes Sworn in on Georgia Juvenile Justice Board
From left: Bridges Holmes, Joyette Holmes, Gov. Brian Kemp, Juvenile Justice Board Chair Sandra Heath Taylor and Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner Tyrone Oliver.
Gregory Doyle Calhoun & Rogers attorney Joyette Holmes has been appointed and sworn into office on the Georgia Juvenile Justice Board. Prior to joining GDCR, which has offices in Marietta and Atlanta, Holmes served as the district attorney for Cobb Judicial Circuit. Her extensive public service experience led to her appointment by Gov. Brian Kemp in July. She was selected as the 2019 Cobb County Citizen of the Year, and she serves on the boards of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, Must Ministries, the Cobb Community Foundation and the Davis Direction Foundation. Holmes also has held positions as the chief magistrate judge for Cobb County, assistant district attorney and assistant solicitor general. She made Cobb County history by becoming the first woman and first African American to serve as both chief magistrate and district attorney.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens Awarded Grant The Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA), a division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, awarded a grant to Smith-Gilbert Gardens as part of its initial disbursement of grants for fiscal year 2022. A total of 218 organizations were awarded 266 grants, which provide more than $2 million in funding to arts organizations throughout Georgia. Additional grants for vibrant communities and cultural facilities programs will be awarded this fall. “As we emerge from this past year’s quarantine, the arts sector is vital to restarting the economy by attracting tourists, assisting with classroom learning, and igniting events to bring communities back together,” said GCA Executive Director Tina Lilly. “The 266 grants we have awarded will help cities and organizations leverage additional funds and bring people back to work, while providing fun and educational opportunities for Georgians across the state.” The grant will help Smith-Gilbert Gardens grow Art Blooms, which aims to provide emerging artists with a new exhibit platform. Art education programs for local students, weekly art programs for visitors, and a new temporary exhibit with regional and national artists will be added to complement the permanent collection, thanks to the grant. 8
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Sculptures at Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
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Local News
Grand Prix Series Continues Runners taking part in Kennesaw’s 2021 Grand Prix 5K Series are preparing for the Aug. 14 Dream Dash, the second race in the series. The course through downtown Kennesaw is mostly flat, asphalt, professionally timed and USA Track & Field-certified. While perfect for competitive runners seeking a qualifying time for the Peachtree Road Race, beginner runners/walkers can enjoy the family-friendly, festival-like atmosphere and plentiful food and drink. The six 5K runs are part of the Fit City Kennesaw initiative, which encourages residents to become more active and engage in wellness-related activities. Online registration is available. The entry fee of $25 ($35 on race day) includes a race T-shirt. The rest of the schedule includes the Sept. 18 Great Locomotive Race and the Oct. 30 Garden Gallop. All races are electronically timed by Orion Racing, and awards are presented in several categories. On Facebook. www.kennesawgrandprix.com.
First Fishing Rodeo a Succes
Cobb residents had a great time at the first Fishing Rodeo of the year at Lost Mountain Park. More than 100 young people joined the fun. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources staff brought a trailer full of fishing supplies for participants. More than 30 fish were caught, weighed, measured and released. The annual Fishing Rodeo, hosted by Cobb Parks staff, continued through the end of July. Keep an eye on the Parks and Nature tab at cobbcounty.org/parks for information and registration for next year. The competition is open to children, ages 3-16, and trophies are awarded for the five biggest fish overall.
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Georgia Symphony Orchestra Returns The Georgia Symphony Orchestra (GSO) returns to the stage for its 71st concert series in September, for the classics series. Led by Music Director and Conductor Timothy Verville, the series features three artistically captivating and musically challenging classical works at the Marietta Performing Arts Center or the Bailey Center for the Performing Arts at Kennesaw State University. On Sept. 25, the orchestra will kick off the season with “Mahler, smahler,” a reduced orchestration of Gustav Mahler’s Fourth Symphony. This work often is referred to as Mahler’s most “chamber-like,” due to the intricacies and interplay between instrumental sections. Soprano and Marietta native Maria Valdes, who has received acclaim on the stage from San Francisco to Chicago and New York, is the featured soloist. The series continues on Feb. 26, 2022, with GSO’s Beethoven at the Beach, featuring Amy Beach’s Symphony No. 2, the first symphony written and published by an American woman composer, and Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major. The series concludes on May 21 with The Firebird and Music of Remembrance concert. The performance includes American composer Jennifer Higdon’s Blue Cathedral, one of her most performed works, and Igor Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite (1919), which is a collection of music from the ballet of the same name. In addition to the classics series, the season also includes Holiday Pops in December, GSO Jazz! in February and April, and the annual Sensory Friendly performance in March. For more information, and details on purchasing tickets, visit georgiasymphony.org/all-events.
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A Message from the
T
his month, we celebrate a season of transition in our community. Brian Bulthuis, who served as the city manager for 25 years, is celebrating retirement. Brian was instrumental in managing our growth as a community during his years of service. He accomplished many things during his tenure, including working with the state on the widening of Highway 92, the revitalization of downtown Acworth, the oversight of more than $150 million in impactful Special Local Option Sales Tax projects, 21 years of excellence in financial reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association, and the completion of major building projects, such as the Acworth Community Center, City Hall and the Acworth Police Department headquarters. We are excited to announce the appointment of our new city manager, James Albright. James was born and raised in the Acworth community. He went to Acworth Elementary, Awtrey Middle School, North Cobb High School, and he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Kennesaw State University. He is about as local as it gets! He started his career with the city 21 years ago as a summer camp counselor and crew member, performing maintenance in the Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department. In 2005, at the age of 23, he became one of the youngest directors of parks and recreation in Georgia, after being appointed by myself and the Board of Aldermen. James has successfully recruited, developed and retained some of the top talent in the parks and
recreation field to create one of the most dynamic and impactful departments in the state. In addition to traditional parks and recreation duties, the department also handles all building maintenance within the city, and it provides operational support to the Downtown Development Authority, the Tourism Authority, the Lake Authority, Tree Commission and the Housing Authority, under his leadership. He oversaw the construction of the Acworth Community Center, the development of the Logan Farm Park expansion and the renovation of the Art House and the Logan Farm House. This department has led the city’s effort to create inclusive recreation opportunities for everyone in our community. James has been an active volunteer in our community as a youth baseball, football and wrestling coach. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Acworth Business Association and the Special Needs Development Group. He resides in the city with his wife, Shannon, and their two children, Ashtyn and Grant. They attend NorthStar Church. We are so grateful for Brian’s contributions to our community, and we wish him the best in retirement! We wish James the best of luck as he picks up the reins and continues to work with me and the Board of Aldermen to continue to move our great city forward! God bless, Tommy
Tommy Allegood was elected to Acworth’s city council in 2000 and has served as mayor since 2002. He is a community builder who is purposed to make it count!
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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This Month in
Acworth History
The Story Behind the Place I Call Home BY ABBIE PARKS
One of the few remaining homes along Main Street in Acworth is the James McMillan home. It sits on the corner of Collins Avenue. It was built in 1879 by James “Jim” Wilson McMillan, who moved to Acworth from the Mars Hill community in the 1870s. McMillan was a thirdgeneration Cobb County native. His grandfather, George Washington McMillan, acquired a gold lot adjoining Pumpkinvine Creek in the Cherokee land lottery; he moved to the Mars Hill community with his wife, Sallie Huie, and their four children, in 1833. Jim McMillan was part of the first generation of Acworth pioneer families, who began trading an agrarian lifestyle for the city life of a merchant
when he moved into town and went into the general merchandise business with his brother-in-law, Jesse Lemon. McMillan purchased an existing two-room antebellum home and 5 acres of land from the McEver family. Shortly before his 1879 marriage to Emma Alice Lemon (1861-1913), he spent $1,500 enlarging the home. Then, he spent nearly $1,500 building the porch and decorative gingerbread trim. The lot included a barn, a garden space, an orchard and a large pasture. After selling the business venture with Jesse Lemon, McMillan formed McMillan Brothers general store, with his brother, Robert Lee, in 1896. McMillan also was president of the S. Lemon Banking Co., which shared a building with the general store.
Outside McMillan Brothers and S. Lemon Banking Co. in 1906, from left: Walter Nichols, Robert McMillan, Mrs. H.B. Terry, unidentified, Claude McMillan, Jim McMillan, Maggie Watson, Walter Abbott, Jesse L. Lemon, Fred Hull, P.C. Carnes and Ivy Goodwin. 14
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
The McMillan home today.
His business on Main Street first was located in the present day Wild Blossoms storefront, and it later moved to what is now Henry’s Louisiana Grill. After the move, the Acworth Post wrote, “ranking as one of the largest merchandise stores in the community, McMillan Brothers has given much valuable service to the community. …. The store was 60-feet by 100-feet, with its stock valued at $50,000.” The two-story, red brick building was designed in a department store style. The downstairs area contained heavy and fancy groceries on the left, and, on the right side, there were dry goods, notions, men’s and women’s shoes, as well as clothing. The millinery and furniture departments were housed upstairs.
Four generations of McMillans from the early 1880s: Claude (1879-1943), James Wilson “Jim” (1852-1929), Robert Huie (1829-1907) and George Washington (1805-87).
The McMillan home, in 1906, before the wraparound porch was destroyed.
Jim and Emma raised their 10 children in the home, and the McMillan Brothers business prospered. When the Great Depression hit Acworth, banks closed and credit was gone. Debts owed to the McMillan Brothers by farmers for seed, groceries and fertilizer could not be paid. Money was scarce, and McMillan Brothers had to close. Unlike many, McMillan chose to sell his home rather than to go bankrupt, so all the store’s debts were paid off with the proceeds of that sale. Once located next to the First Baptist Church, the house was sold to the Osborne family, and the property eventually was passed to the church. Slated for demolition to make way for the church’s expansion,
the house was moved one block north to its present location in 1980. By the time my husband and I purchased the McMillan house in 1996, it had fallen into considerable decay. Built of heart pine, the 116-year-old home still was quite sturdy, and we determined that she had good bones. While undergoing an extensive restoration, we had the pleasure of meeting the fourth and fifth generations of the McMillans. Three sisters from the fifth generation generously shared photographs, letters, personal reflections and other memorabilia. These gifts are treasured, and they are the source of much of this home’s history. From a personal memoir written in the 1950s by Lillian McMillan, the eighth of the 10 McMillan
children, we learned much about life in Acworth at the turn of the century. She offered reflections about family members, her siblings and parents, plus their traditions and customs for Christmas and on Sundays. We even were able to host several gatherings with the fifth-, sixthand seventh-generation McMillan descendants. At almost 150 years old, the McMillan home still retains much of her original beauty and charm. Abbie Parks, an Acworth resident, co-authored pictorial essays on regional history and collaborated on a book celebrating Acworth’s 150th birthday that featured anecdotal history and family photographs.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
The August events sponsor is Anchor Realty Partners.
Aug. 10
Morning Jolt
7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals with one another.
Aug. 12
Alive After Five
5:30-7:30 p.m. Red Top Brewhouse 4637 S. Main St.
Aug. 19
Women’s Business Network
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive
Aug. 24
Morning Jolt
7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive
Sept. 2
ABA Luncheon
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St. 16
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
Last month’s Alive After Five event was held at Henry’s Louisiana Grill.
5
Ways to Help Your Local School
BY KIM WIGINGTON
This year, the Acworth Business Association has called on the business community to encourage, support and build. The school community needs that from us, as well. Whether your focus is schoolwide or just on one class, our schools need encouragement, support and building up, now more than ever. So, how can you help? Well, here are some ways to support your local school, without spending a lot of money.
1. Send treats to the teachers at a local school.
one gift card to the school, and let the school’s administration draw a 2. Send teacher’s name to receive it. you have leftover office supplies and logo merchandise from the 3. Do conference you didn’t get to attend last year? Send it to a school. school supplies when they go on clearance next month, and donate 4. Buy them to a school. as a mentor, a reader, a lunch room monitor or anything else 5. Volunteer that gives teachers support. Be prepared to do a background check first. Supporting our schools and local teachers is one way Acworth is moving forward, united and strong.
Kim Wigington is the president of the ABA, and serves as chairwoman of the Acworth Downtown Development Authority. She is the founder and director of Brookwood Christian School. She and her husband have lived in Acworth for 16 years and have two adult daughters.
Celebrations!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Email to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 14. Please specify Around Acworth.
Mitchelle Mwaura
Age 15 on Aug. 27 No words can describe the warmth, special charm and pride that comes from having a daughter like you. Happy birthday, Beautiful! Dad, Mom, Wambugu and Wawira
Zavior Z. Auxilly
Age 5 on Aug. 20 Happy birthday, Champ! We love our Zay Zay to the moon and back, twice over! XOXO, Mommy, Daddy, Cammy, Zebby and Grandparents
Julian Augustus McCord Age 6 on Aug. 5 Happy Birthday, Julian! Love, Pappi
Rivers Gabriel Campbell Age 7 on Aug. 12 Happy birthday Bubba! Love, Mom, Dad and Isla
Mila Elzer
Age 5 on Aug. 24 Happy birthday to our beautiful 5 year old! We love you, Mommy, Daddy and Wyatt
Charlotte Montaña
Age 1 on Aug. 25 Happy birthday Charlotte! We love you very much! Love, Mom, Dad and Madeline
David and Katie Beall celebrated their
seventh wedding anniversary July 11. Happy anniversary to the #WeddingBealls!
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
17
From Surviving to Thriving
How One Nonprof it Works to Strengthen Families. BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
A student from Ser Familia’s summer camp last year. 18
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
No matter who you are or what your circumstances, everyone needs boundless, restorative love. This is the goal at Ser Familia (translates to Being Family), a nonprofit that has remained focused on investing in families since 2001. “We exist to love on people in crisis,” said Myriam Hysa, development officer for Ser Familia. “We serve the Latino community, getting them through tough times until they are thriving, whether they are documented or not. At Ser Familia, we believe strong families make our communities stronger, better and safer.” Ser Familia’s founder and executive director, Belissa Urbina, was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. There, she experienced a rough spot in her marriage. She reached out and got help from an organization in her hometown. After she moved to Georgia, she couldn’t find an equivalent organization offered to the Latino community. This inspired her to launch Ser Familia. During the last 20 years, the nonprofit’s life-changing programs spread to 36 Georgia counties. Last year, the organization provided services to more than 7,549 Latinos in Georgia. Headquartered in Kennesaw, the staff and volunteers are dedicated to strengthening Latino families through programs that empower them to thrive and enjoy a healthy family environment. They achieve this through educational programs that increase family members’ communication skills, while decreasing high-risk behaviors. They assist families in crisis, serve as advocates and support other organizations that wish to serve Latinos in a culturally competent manner. To better serve those in need, staffing increased, and the Acworth and Buford locations have moved into larger facilities in Kennesaw and Suwanee. The footprint in our community also includes two offices in Norcross and Smyrna. Ser Familia also received national accreditation for its mental health program. “As outreach coordinator for Ser Familia, I feel it’s not enough to just go around telling people about our wonderful organization,” said Migdalia Rivera, “but how we can bring our first responders and law enforcement agencies to work with us as one — sharing what they have to offer and how we can work together to benefit families. Our focus is not solely on supplies
Staff member Mary with bags of food for COVID-19 relief.
and donations; we also provide mental health services and workshops that allow parents and adolescents to take control and get to a healthy stable family environment. Even if at the end of the day I was able to help a family not sleep on the floor, or was able to supply food to another and the children go to bed with a full belly, I have done my job well.”
Ser Familia programs include: • • • • •
Couple’s workshops and retreats Youth workshops and retreats Strengthening Families Program Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) Domestic violence advocacy, awareness and support • Mental health counseling services in Spanish • Advocacy programs • Cultural and linguistic proficiency consulting Ser Familia relies on the support of volunteers. For more information about volunteering or to make a donation, visit www.serfamilia.org, email info@serfam.org or call 678-363-3079. The new and expanded Kennesaw headquarters is located at 1100 Cobb Place Blvd. NW, Suite 170.
Wellstar staff, members of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Department and Ser Familia’s Diana, right, during a COVID-19 vaccination site at the nonprofit’s facility.
Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.
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When were you hired? What is your background?
I have a bachelor’s degree from Howard University in early childhood education and human development and a master’s degree in library and information science from Valdosta State University. I was hired by Cobb County Library System as a part-time information assistant, and I found I truly enjoyed the public services aspect of working in libraries and children’s programming. I was blessed to manage Acworth Library when it was located next to Acworth City Hall, and I fell in love with the north Cobb area. Everyone is extremely warm and neighborly.
What has been the biggest surprise about your job?
The biggest surprise is how much the community loves and supports libraries. We have families that have been regular visitors since their children were babies, and we have watched them grow up. We also have support from our area schools, churches, CobbWorks, and the cities of Acworth and Kennesaw, to name a few. I have been overwhelmed by how much our community is behind us.
What do you like most about your job?
Get to Know
Nichole Knox Manager, North Cobb Regional Library
What is your main responsibility?
As North Cobb Regional Library’s (NCRL) manager, I oversee operations at the branch and disseminate administrative policies and procedures. I also ensure the library is welcoming for all and is centered around customer service.
How big is the team you oversee, and what are your team’s responsibilities?
I am so proud of our NCRL team. We are a group of 24 team members, who provide excellent circulation, reference, computer and additional customer services for patrons. Team members also participate in outreach events to promote library services. We do a lot to “take the library out of the building,” so we can reach the community where they gather. The North Cobb Regional Library staff hosted a food drive for Cobb Senior Services last March. 20
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
I like that the library is an institution that reaches out to patrons of all ages and backgrounds. We have storytimes for babies, a teen space for young adults, and book clubs and activities for the older crowd. The library is a unique entity that brings people together. I love being a part of that type of fellowship.
What kinds of growth have you seen in your time with the library?
Acworth Library was a small 2,500-square-foot library, and we merged with Kennesaw Library to create North Cobb, which is approximately 25,000 square-feet. The facility offers a variety of resources, including a teen room, creative space to offer crafting classes, computer lab and outdoor patios. We also have study rooms and a community room for large events.
What services or features are people surprised to hear the library offers? People are surprised about the many educational resources available with a Cobb County Library card, including ATL Tutor, which provides free tutoring for students, as well as GALE Courses and LinkedIn Learning that provide skill-building courses with certificates of completion. Patrons also are surprised about the free pass programs offered at the library, which includes the Southern Museum, Atlanta Zoo, Micheal Carlos Museum, Center for Puppetry Arts Museum, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Georgia State Parks and more.
Are there any future projects in the works?
We are very excited about our upcoming community garden that will be headed by Vidhya Jagannathan, our creative space coordinator. Vidhya worked with Foodwell Alliance organization to secure a $1,500 grant to start the garden. The garden will be in partnership with Cobb Parks, which will build four raised beds and two higher beds for special-needs visitors and patrons who cannot reach the ground. The community garden will be the first of its kind for Cobb Libraries, and we look forward to having the library be a place of learning and community. We have had several gardeners reach out to us, offering help. If you are interested in helping, call Vidhya at the library to get more information (770-801-5320).
What are your goals?
My goal is to continue to see the library grow in resources and patronage, while connecting with all the businesses, nonprofits and education centers in the north Cobb area. I also want to write a best-selling book about my church. It’s an interesting story I would love to tell.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Acworth Teen’s Reign Has Been a Busy One BY CAROLINE MARTIN
Above, at a Make A Wish concert in Texas, Miss Teen of America snaps a quick photo with a girl competing for Little Miss of Texas. Top, as part of her children’s literacy platform, Caroline hosted virtual storytime sessions with elementary classes. 22
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
As some readers may know, I had the amazing opportunity of winning the title of Miss Teen of America in November. At the time, I was in shock, and absolutely couldn’t wait for the year ahead. Now, a little more than halfway through the year of my reign, I still look forward to each and every opportunity I have with the title. Since last November, I definitely have stayed busy with a variety of appearances, volunteer events and meeting a lot of awesome people. With the title, I also have been able to expand upon my platform, children’s literacy, and there are some special projects I am working on. I love to travel, and I have been able to take some fun trips, both locally and
throughout the United States. One of my favorites so far was my trip to Texas in March. I had some fun with my fellow titleholders, and also got to meet new titleholders. We were all there for the Texas state pageant, which I was excited about, because I got to go back to my home state. I enjoyed meeting all of the Texas state titleholders. There were so many great people there, several of which I have stayed in contact with. Additionally, I got to talk to people of all ages about the importance of reading, and how it’s OK to ask for help when struggling with something. Each person was given a book to read themselves, or to read to someone else. Other opportunities that come
with this title include various volunteer events, which I have participated in. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, I have not been able to participate in as many events as I would have liked. However, I helped distribute care packages to the elderly on Valentine’s Day; volunteered at a Night to Shine, a special-needs prom experience; and, just recently, I helped package 40,000 meals for people across the world. By participating in these events, I made some great memories, but I feel I also have strengthened my appreciation for many different perspectives of life. One of my favorite parts of this experience is my platform, where I have been able to spread the message: “each book is a new adventure, and there is a book (or adventure) for everyone.” I have visited and read to children at many schools, both in-person and virtually. In each school, I see the children of the next generation, who are impacted by everything they see and hear. This is just one of the reasons I chose children’s literacy as my platform. I also have shared the love of reading with others by giving out books. In fact, I started a book drive to collect books for children, so that they have books to read during the school year. If you would like to help a child experience a new adventure through reading this year, you can visit the Miss Teen of America Instagram and Facebook pages (@missteenofamerica) for more information. For the remaining months of my tenure as Miss Teen of America, and hopefully after my reign, as well, I want to continue to learn and serve through volunteering, meet and make friends with more people, and impact others through my platform. Recently, I graduated from Allatoona High School, and I am excited to stay local for college. I will attend Kennesaw State University this fall, where I will major in business, with a focus on marketing. I also hope soon to publish a children’s book I have written. Overall, I want to make a positive impact on others.
Caroline graduated with honors in May from Allatoona High School.
Caroline Martin is an Allatoona High School graduate and is passionate about encouraging children to read. Follow her on Instagram @missteenofgeorgia. AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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@ the Library Cobb County Public Library System www.cobbcat.org
NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY 3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw
770-801-5320
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays
Aug. 9
The Game Is Afoot! Sherlock Holmes Story Discussion is 6-7:20 p.m. Join the North Cobb
Irregulars for a discussion of Andrew Lane’s “Death Cloud.” Set in 1868, the book follows 14-year-old Sherlock Holmes, who finds himself in the midst of his first crime-solving adventure. Hard copies are available at the library, but supplies are very limited. If you take one, please return it as soon as possible, so that someone else may read it. No ebooks or audiobooks are available at the library, but the story is available as an e-audio book via Audible and as an e-book via Amazon.
Sept. 14
North Cobb Regional Library Second Anniversary Open House takes place 4-5:30 p.m. The grand opening was Sept. 5, 2019. Learn more about future events and services for our patrons of all ages.
Lost Towns of North Georgia: A Discussion With Author Lisa M. Russell is 6-7:30 p.m.
Join the discussion exploring the rich history of some North Georgia towns that are no more, with author and professor Lisa M. Russell. She unearths the forgotten towns, such as Cassville, Allatoon and Auraria, as described in her 2016 book, “Lost Towns of North Georgia.” For more fascinating North Georgia history, join the upcoming discussions of Russell’s other books at 6 p.m. in October and November:
Oct. 12: “Underwater Ghost Towns of North Georgia” Nov. 9: “Lost Mill Towns of North Georgia” Contact Virginia Everett at virginia.everett@ cobbcounty.org, or 770-801-2745, for more information about these events.
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
WEST COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY 1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw
770-528-4699
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays
Aug. 6, 31
American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held
11 a.m.-4 p.m. Type O donors especially are needed. Make it a summer full of life by donating blood. Schedule your donation at www.redcrossblood.org.
Aug. 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2
West Cobb Craft Club will meet 10 a.m.-noon.
Thursdays. Do you knit, crochet or work with yarn? Or, do you want to learn how, while making friends with people who craft? Join the group to craft, and get inspired. All skill levels are welcome (especially beginners). Bring your yarn, your enthusiasm and yourself. 770-528-4699.
Aug. 23
Fourth Monday Book Discussion meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. the fourth Monday each month. Group reads a variety of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, classics and new releases. This month’s selection is “Alternate Side” by Anna Quindlen. jennifer.wells@ cobbcounty.org.
Safety Basics for Paddle Craft Enthusiasts BY GREG FONZENO
All boaters, whether powered by engine, sail or paddle, have to look out for one another to ensure everybody has an enjoyable day on the water. For paddle craft operators of canoes, kayaks, rowboats or a stand-up paddle (SUP), it means being well-prepared and aware of surrounding boats. Paddle craft sales increased in 2020, along with the amount of deaths of paddle craft operators. Here are seven tips you can follow to ensure paddle craft safety.
1
Always wear a life jacket. Experienced paddlers wear
life jackets, even when paddling a SUP (during which, waist style jackets are worn). Of all drowning victims, 86% are found not wearing a life jacket.
2
Remain visible. Paddle crafts sit low in the water, making them harder to see, especially in low light and foggy conditions. It’s especially important for paddlers to pay attention when a power boat’s bow is raised due to acceleration, as they might not be seen. It is important to wear bright clothing, hats and a life jacket that contrasts with your shirt, as well as use paddles with reflective material on the paddle blade.
3
Dress for immersion. Assume you are going to be in
the water at some point. Choose your clothing based on the water temperature, not the air temperature. Avoid cotton clothing such as T-shirts and jeans, because they retain water and accelerate the cooling process, and wear footwear that will protect your feet from the cold.
4
Carry paddling essentials. Paddlers are legally
required to have a life jacket, a sound-producing device (like a whistle) and a light. It is a good idea to carry a
communication device, drinking water and personal locator beacon (PLB) as well. Small high-frequency radios allow communication with the Coast Guard and commercial boat traffic control. A PLB relays your precise location when in distress.
5
Know your limits. Most kayaks and SUPs are designed for protected waters and moderate currents. If you don’t feel comfortable, always return to shore. Boating under the influence laws also apply to all vessels including kayaks, SUPs and all paddle craft.
6
Do not paddle alone. For paddle craft, there’s safety in
numbers. Additionally, stay close to shore when there’s a lot of boat traffic.
7
Take a paddling class. If you are new to paddling, and even if you are an experienced boater, take a paddling class. Paddling has unique characteristics, such as reboarding from the water, that you can learn from a class. For example, paddleboaters are advised to approach waves head-on, which reduces the chance of water getting in the boat. Paddling can be a wonderful way to spend the day, and a great adventure if approached safely. Keep these tips in mind, and enjoy a great day on the river or lake.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Advice for Nailing the Virtual Interview BY WORKSOURCE COBB
It’s August. Children are going back to school. High school grads will be starting college. Summer is turning into fall. As the season changes, it also might be time for a new season in life. Searching for a new job can be a trying process, and, in some ways, more difficult if that process occurs virtually. However, it also can be rewarding. Our friends from WorkSource Cobb have provided tips to help you prepare, and ace, a virtual interview, and land the job of your dreams.
Before the Interview
• Test your software, such as your camera and microphone. You also can practice launching apps such as Zoom and Google Meet. Try to log in 5-10 minutes early. • Dress as though you are going to an in-person interview.
• Choose the best room. Check the lighting. Make sure the background is blank and orderly. Do not use filters on your video call. • Rid yourself of distractions. Turn off electronics, including TVs, cellphones and smart watches. Keep windows closed, and keep children or pets away from the interview room.
• Do your research. Google the company and research the position so you are informed and better prepared to answer questions. • Print a copy of your resume for reference. You can make notes about the company and position on it as well, or use sticky notes for talking points. • Rehearse common interview questions with yourself, or practice with a friend or family member. Try setting up a practice Zoom meeting with someone before the interview.
1. “Tell me about yourself.” Present, past and future is a good formula to use. Mention your present position, how you got there, and how this position has prepared you for the job you are applying for. 2. “What are your strengths?” An example is being great at software design, but always relate your strength to the position you’re applying for.
3. “What are your weaknesses?” An example is fear of public speaking. Always include how you are working to conquer your weakness. To elaborate on the public speaking example, you could mention that you have volunteered to help run meetings at work to overcome your weakness.
4. “Why should I hire you?” Look at the job description. What is mentioned most? Stress that point, and remind the interviewer of your relevant experience. 26
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PROGRAM OF INTEREST: Operation Fast Track
If you have been laid off due to COVID-19 and received unemployment benefits in the last six months, the National Dislocated Worker Grant has funding for training in high demand jobs to get you back to work fast. For more information, email information@ cobbworks.org, or call 770-528-4300.
During the Interview
• Treat the virtual interview like an in-person interview.
• Monitor your body language. Sit up straight and smile. Keep the camera at eye level, and maintain eye contact with the camera, not at the image of the hiring manager. • Remember the 3 B’s: Be ready, Be there (physically and mentally) and Be yourself.
• Be prepared to ask questions. 1. Could you give me more specifics about the job? 2. How long has this position been vacant? 3. How would you describe a typical day on the job? 4. What is your company culture? 5. How would you describe the ideal employee for this position? • Avoid certain questions during the initial interview. These questions will be answered, or you can ask, during the second interview. Questions about salary or benefits, or questions that start with “why,” should be avoided. Other examples include: 1. Who is your competition? 2. How often do reviews occur? 3. Can I work from home?
After the Interview
• Send an email to thank the person for speaking with you, whether you decide you want the position or not.
• If the interviewer mentions when he or she plans on making a decision, email them again at that time, and ask if they have filled the position. Let them know you are still interested. For a comprehensive list of resources for job-seekers and upcoming events, visit www.worksourcecobb.org.
WorkSource Cobb connects talent with opportunity by providing access to a system of employment and education services for the community.
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PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO
Owners Ben and Stephanie Harbour, middle, with their daughters Jennifer Hagaman, Laura Harbour and Ashleigh Simcox, and grandchildren Lincoln and Gwendolyne Simcox.
Find Life, Comfort and Connection at DayBreak Village Senior Living N
estled down a long private drive, and surrounded by flowers, trees and wildlife is DayBreak Village Senior Living Community, in the heart of Kennesaw’s historic district but off the beaten path. The quiet seven-acre campus is a place where families know their aging loved ones are being treated like family. Owners Ben and Stephanie Harbour developed the senior living community to be cozy and comfortable almost 17 years ago. Caring for an aging family member is what inspired the Harbours to open the business in the first place. That journey gave them insight into what families go through in finding the right community for their loved ones. “Our family took care of our maternal grandmother for many years as we struggled with what was later found to be a postmortem diagnosis of Alzheimer’s,” Stephanie said. “Through this time of crisis, we learned a lot about love, loyalty and family dedication. We learned about the countless hours it took to find
Resident Mary Jean with employee Teresa Sirma. 28
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
quality care we could trust. We also learned that it really takes a village to truly care for all our families.” “After studying best practices and in-person research, from Portland, Oregon, to Portland, Maine, our community was developed. We named her DayBreak Village, for the life, light and connection it would bring to our neighborhood and families,” Ben said. Ron Ransom, former Marietta Parks and Recreation director, found those qualities when he and his wife Evelyn moved to DayBreak Village. Ransom was well-known for his wooden Santa Claus carvings and mouse thumbprint cartoons for the Marietta Daily Journal. In addition to being an author, he was commissioned to design a Santa carving for the World of Coca-Cola museum. DayBreak understood Ransom needed a place to carve and teach classes, so the owners built him a wood shop on-site, so that his passion could continue to flourish.
DayBreak Village Senior Living Community | 3056 Cherokee St., Kennesaw
Sponsored
“We believe it is vital for people of all ages to continue to pursue their passions, even after they move to a senior community,” Stephanie said. “DayBreak’s goal is to, ‘Make people happy.’ We believe that helping people reach their goals is the best way to do that.” “Having the same owners and dedicated staff, such as Teresa Sirma, the first employee hired almost 17 years ago, is what helps make us special.” Stephanie said. Many residents and couples have lived at DayBreak for more than 10 years, including two that are almost 101 years old, and another that is 100. Since opening, DayBreak has cared for more than 1,000 residents. The community’s original building was small, and intended to accommodate 28 full-time residents, each in a shared room. Through a complete renovation of the existing building, more than 52 new construction efficiency and one-bedroom apartments were built. In addition, a new multi-purpose dining area, activity/ exercise room, multiple entertainment areas, two large custom-built outdoor patios, a spa, a hair salon and sun porches were built. Architectural plans for 82 additional apartments, on the remaining five acres, have been designed and are under review.
3 Reasons to Choose DayBreak Village
1.
It’s large enough to provide specialized services, including independent living, personal care, memory care and hospice, but small enough to provide dedicated personal boutique living.
2.
The community offers chefprepared meals at regularly scheduled times, as well as a 24-hour made-to-order menu.
3.
The facility boasts a robust activity program under fulltime direction of a licensed geriatric therapeutic specialist and full-time assistant, a 15-passenger luxury bus for off-site activities, as well as a courtesy car for physician visits.
What people are saying…
“I am a retired physician who chose DayBreak two years ago to care for a family member who had been in a psychiatric hospital for a month for severe depression without improvement. DayBreak placed her in their memory unit for close supervision, at first, and began socialization with many activities, excellent food and careful medication monitoring. She was, within three months, no longer depressed, buying new clothes, putting on makeup and ready to start her life again.” — Howard S. “Mother has been at DayBreak for five years. I would recommend this facility to anyone. I am always impressed with the joy and love I feel when I walk in the doors. The team at DayBreak are special individuals.” — Marilyn T. “The place is perfect, perfect, perfect. I love my accommodations, the people, the food and the environment. Perfect encompasses everything about DayBreak. I love it here!”— Alyse O. “The food is more than anyone could ask for. My son, who is a cardiologist at Wellstar, searched for a place. It’s the best place I know of. The best I’ve seen. This place is superb!” — Donald P.
Residents Mary Jean, Kay and Mary enjoying some iced tea on the patio.
w, GA 30144 | 770-218-6166 | www.daybreakvillage.com | On Facebook
d Content
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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What’s Hot in Summer Flooring Trends BY ELISABETH STUBBS
Homeowners are tackling home improvement projects this summer. Maybe you put off installing new flooring during the pandemic, because you didn’t want workers in your home, so now it’s on the top of your to-do list. If you planned on installing hardwoods, knowing what type of flooring is trending now might surprise you. It’s carpet! Carpet is like comfort food: familiar, cozy, warm. Not to mention, it’s affordable. Carpet is typically the flooring of choice for bedrooms and cold basements. If you love to play games on the floor with your kids, you’ll appreciate the softness of carpet. Popular looks include luxury cut loop patterns and Berber designs. Bold patterns often are chosen for staircases, and more subtle looks typically are chosen for other rooms in the home. Carpets with color flecks are popular choices, especially for active households. If you have kids and/or pets, be sure to take a look at triexta, a soft synthetic carpet fiber, also known as Sorona or SmartStrand. This style offers built-in, lifetime stain and soil resistance. It doesn’t wash or wear off, and it is easy to clean with just water. If you have allergies and have been told to stay away from carpet, the first step is pinpointing exactly what you are allergic to. If you have a chemical allergy, it may be latex. The latex that is used in carpet construction is one of the most common allergens for clients. Other allergens include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust and pollen. Depending on your allergy, here are new options that might work for you.
• No latex. Air.o by Mohawk
is latex-free, with no VOCs. Another option is PureBac carpet, recently launched by Dream Weaver, which contains no latex. 30
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
• Plant-based. SmartStrand
Forever Clean carpets are made with DuPont’s partially plant-based polymer, Sorona, which is free from harmful substances.
• Low VOCs. A wool carpet with a woven backing is low in VOCs, as there is no secondary backing, and wool is a proven air purifier. A synthetic fiber pad, or a rubber waffle pad, is the best choice for carpet cushion when VOCs are a concern. • Dust and pollen. A dense, tightly-woven carpet, cleaned often by a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air filter, and occasionally professionally cleaned with a hot water extraction, can help combat dust and pollen allergies.
Carpet is also budget-friendly. Hard-surface floors, like luxury vinyl plank and hardwoods, are usually double the cost of new carpet, sometimes more. Most carpet is made in the U.S., so steep import charges do not apply. If it’s time to replace your flooring, don’t let the popularity of hardwoods deter you from choosing what you want. Carpet is in! Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Corps members plant button bushes at Stamp Creek as part of the Allatoona Lake Pollinator and Native Habitat Restoration Project.
Pollinators at Allatoona Lake:
What’s the Buzz About? BY LINDA PURVIS
Plants rely on pollination — nearly 90% of flowering plants need pollinators to transfer pollen for successful reproduction. In turn, these plants are critical in the functioning of ecosystems. They form habitats and provide food and a wide range of other resources for many animal species. Pollinators like birds, bees, butterflies, beetles, bats and other small mammals play a key role in regulating ecosystems that support food production, habitats and natural resources. Unfortunately, there is substantial evidence of the decline of pollinator populations due to human activity and habitat fragmentation. Furthermore, many broad-spectrum pesticides and diseases, and the spread of invasive plant species, also may disrupt pollinator habitats.
The Simple Truth
Pollination is an essential ecological function for survival. In terms of agriculture, the loss of pollinators would alter human food systems dramatically. Most calories come 32
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
from cereal grains, which are windpollinated and unaffected by pollinator populations. However, many fruits and vegetables are insect-pollinated, and they are grown on a large scale with the help of pollinators. Without pollinators, it still is possible to pollinate, but it would be incredibly labor-intensive and expensive. Without pollinators, the availability and diversity of fresh produce would decline substantially, and human nutrition would be impacted negatively.
The Corps at Allatoona Lake has received supplemental funding through a partnership program from Corps Headquarters in Washington. In partnership with Keep Bartow Beautiful, Wildlife Action Inc., and the Bartow and Cherokee County UGA Extensions, these organizations will help the Corps install more pollinator gardens and restoration sites at other areas surrounding the lake. Additionally, the annual planting of native aquatic plant species with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, has created fish habitats and food plots for other wildlife. Finally, the Corps also will introduce beehives at several areas around the lake, in partnership with Bobbee MacBee’s and Wildlife Action.
How the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is Helping
As an effort to help restore healthy pollinator ecosystems, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Allatoona Lake created the Pollinator and Native Habitat Restoration Project. In early spring this year, the Corps began working with Georgia Audubon, planting native grasses and plants that will attract pollinator species at Cooper’s Furnace Day Use Area in Cartersville. But, this is only the beginning of the restoration project.
A pollinator plot at Cooper’s Furnace Day Use Area in Cartersville.
How You Can Help
You can make a positive impact, reversing the decline of pollinators, by turning your own yard into a pollinator garden. Here are some ideas to help make a difference:
•
•
•
•
Fill your yard with native plants.
Native plants are the foundation of habitats for pollinators. They provide pollinators with pollen and nectar for food, protection from predators and the elements, and a place for their young to grow.
Give bees a home.
There are around 4,000 bee species native to North America, and most don’t form hives. Instead, the females lay eggs in decaying wood or sandy soil. Leave tree snags on your property or build a native bee house.
Plant milkweed.
Monarch butterfly populations have declined a staggering 90% in the past 20 years. One of many causes is the lack of milkweed (a caterpillar host plant). Without this plant, these butterflies cannot complete their life cycle. By planting milkweed, you can provide a crucial habitat for the survival of monarch caterpillars.
Protect grasslands.
Grasslands are on the decline faster than any other ecosystem in North America. Native grasslands are important for pollinators, such as birds, butterflies and bees.
Pollinators play a significant role in our ecosystem. The Corps and its partners recognize their importance, and are working together to re-establish a healthy environment. You can help our pollinator friends by protecting biodiversity and native habitats. For more information about the Corps’ Pollinator and Native Habitat Restoration Project, contact the Allatoona Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700.
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Linda Purvis is a park ranger and natural resources specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Allatoona Lake. She is the lead coordinator on the Allatoona Lake Pollinator and Native Habitat Restoration Project.
678-486-1111 *Qualification is based on an assessment of individual creditworthiness and our underwriting standards. For complete terms and conditions, visit www.CUofGA.org/promo. AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Steps to Finding the Right Lawyer BY JOEL WILLIAMS
Finding the best lawyer for your legal needs is not always easy. Lawyers tend to specialize in specific areas of the law. These areas include personal injury, family and divorce, property, criminal, mergers and acquisitions, workers compensation, premises liability and elections. The list goes on. The first step you must take, when searching for a lawyer, is to identify the area of the law that you need legal expertise. For example, if you are injured in an automobile accident, you will need to find a lawyer that specializes in injury and insurance law. If you are charged with a crime, you need a lawyer that specializes in criminal defense. When starting a business, you may need a lawyer that specializes in corporate law, taxes or regulations specific to your industry. Once you know what kind of lawyer you require, you will need to search for one that can serve your specific needs. Online searches are a good place to start. Most law firms have websites that list their areas of practice. Take your time researching. Read customer reviews, and look up the lawyer’s social media accounts. Always check the State Bar of Georgia website to make sure the lawyer has not been disciplined for unethical behavior. After narrowing down your list, start making calls to the lawyers’ offices. Find out how much they charge, and begin setting up inperson, Zoom, or phone consultations with your top picks.
Once you have initial meeting dates set with at least three law firms, make a list of questions to ask. For example, you may want to know: • How many cases do you handle at one time? • How long will it take to handle my legal needs? • How long does it take you to return phone calls, emails or text messages? • Can you tell me what to expect during each step of the legal process? • How many times have you handled issues like mine? After the initial interviews, you can decide which lawyer is the best fit for you. If you are having a difficult time finding a lawyer in Cobb County, you can call the Cobb County Bar Association Referral Service. For a small fee, the referral service can help you find a local lawyer that is competent to handle your legal issue. For more information, visit https://cobbcountybar.org/page/ LawyerReferralServ.
Joel Williams is a partner at Williams|Elleby, a Kennesaw based personal injury law firm. www.gatrialattorney.com.
Pondering Answers to Life’s Questions BY JENNIFER BONN
There are some questions in life that have no right answer. Pondering these questions provides an opportunity for self reflection and forces us to think about different perspectives. How would you answer these questions?
How can two people have different views of reality? People view reality based on their belief system. Sometimes individuals welcome a view of reality for so long that they accept it as truth, even if it is false.
Is there a way to slow down aging?
Eliminate stress, and put worry and fear in God’s hands. Exercise, eat well, laugh often, pray and cultivate community. A great deal of moisturizer can help, too.
How should we deal with difficult people?
The first thing I always do is understand where the person’s words and actions are coming from. My reaction is to meet hatefulness with love and understanding. People are carrying all kinds of burdens. Unfortunately, with some people, hatefulness continues to flow no matter what you do. In this case, I limit interactions as much as possible.
How can we make a difference?
The best way to make a difference is to look beyond yourself, and do what you can to serve others. Even the busiest people still have time to help others. Practice random acts of kindness at least once a day, and be generous with your smile.
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What are the keys to success?
One of the keys to success is failure; it makes you stronger and wiser. Another key to success is to stop comparing yourself to others. My definition of success is happiness. Make a list of what you want to achieve, and make a plan on how to accomplish those goals. Always keep a positive attitude.
How do we continue to grow?
Realize that we can learn something from everyone. Learn from the words and actions of those you admire. Push yourself to do and learn new things.
Why are children so much happier than adults?
Children approach everything they do with joy, while adults are more critical. Children treat everyone equally regardless of race, age or gender, while adults tend to judge by appearances. Children never feel the need to hurry. For them, it is acceptable to stop, observe their surroundings and inspect each of the 27 bugs they see on the ground. Life is full of wonders, and children want to experience them all. Adults can learn a lot about happiness that they may have forgotten from children. Jennifer Bonn is a French teacher at Mount Paran Christian School, and is working on a book about lessons she learned in the classroom.
ACWORTH
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Back to School Safety Tips BY WAYNE DENNARD
It’s hard to believe that school already is starting again. This year, our local schools return to in-person learning for all students. It’s been a while since we have had full schools, so I’d like to share some tips for keeping all of our children safe. As drivers, it is our responsibility to be mindful and protect children as they board and disembark from school buses. As we get back into the swing of things, it is a good time to review the rules of the road relating to school buses. Remember, on a two-lane road, vehicles traveling in both directions must stop when a school bus stops for children. The same is true for multi-lane roads. On a divided highway, with a dirt, grass or a barrier median, only vehicles behind the bus must stop. Even if you are not required to stop, use caution when proceeding. For students who walk home from school, make sure to choose a safe route for your child, and practice it with them. Also, be sure to talk to your child about strangers. Teach them not to get into any vehicle with someone they don’t know. It is important to ensure that your child knows their parents’ names, addresses and phone numbers. Even if they have a cellphone, they should have phone numbers and addresses memorized. If your child has a cellphone, it’s a good idea to install an app that will enable you to track your child’s phone and location at all times. If your child returns home from school before the
rest of the family, have a routine in place to keep them safe. Make sure they check in with you when they return home. Ensure they lock the front door once they are inside, and that they do not open the door to strangers. Have after-school snacks that don’t require cooking in easy-to-reach places, so kids are able to grab a quick bite safely. Get to know your neighbors, and make sure your children know someone in the neighborhood they can go to for help. In addition to protecting their physical safety, it is vital that children know how to stay safe online. Remind them never to share their personal information online. Parents should
monitor their child’s online activity, as well as who they are communicating with. Caution children against communicating with anyone that they do not know in real life. Now that school is back in session, please talk to your children about your expectations for their behavior in person and online. Setting clear expectations and boundaries will help to protect them from endangering themselves or others. Finally, make sure that your child knows they always can call 911 in case of an emergency. Police, fire and emergency service personnel always are there to help.
Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Relationships: Not Easy, But Worth It BY J.R. LEE
A great relationship or a great marriage isn’t always easy. If you want your marriage, or any long term-relationship, to be great, you have to fight! But, you have to choose to fight for the relationship, not just in the relationship. My wife Devin and I have been married for nearly 21 years. Here are a few things we have learned, sometimes the hard way, that I bet will help you as well.
1.
What attracts initially will attack eventually!
Initially, you may have been attracted to your spouse’s passion for life, but you now realize that passion doesn’t go away during stressful situations or heated debates. When something drives you crazy, ask yourself if that is the thing that actually attracted you to that person? Perspective can shift your thinking and help you form a strategy to overcome any obstacle.
2. Choose your battles.
Don’t win the argument and lose the relationship. Choose your battles wisely. Not every hill is one worth dying on.
3. Speak to their potential, not just their problems. Constantly nit-picking and pointing out failures can
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become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Devin has told our church congregation that men are like puppies in a lot of ways. If you tell them what they are doing right, they will want to do it again. By the way, this also applies in the words you speak to yourself. I’ve talked myself out of making important decisions over the years because the words in my head spoke death instead of life. You have what it takes to do everything God has called you to do. Don’t let your words sabotage your potential.
4.
Focus on the future, not the past.
Conflict is not the time for a history lesson. Do your best to stop bringing up stuff that happened years ago. No one can change the past, no matter how much they wish they could. Focus on the future by simply doing the right thing in the present. Relationships can’t win when bones from the past are dug up and used as weapons. Pastor J.R. Lee is husband to Devin, dad to Lexi, London and Bryce, and pastor of Freedom Church. Follow him on Instagram at @PastorJRLee, Twitter at @JRLee, or on the Freedom Church YouTube channel.
the Audiologist
Tips for a Successful Video Call With Family
Dear Dr. Mary, My husband just purchased new hearing devices and loves them! They can connect to his phone directly through Bluetooth, and he is able to hear phone conversations again. It has truly been amazing. The other night, however, we were waiting for a video call from our daughter, so we could check in on our grandchildren. When the call came through, we answered with excitement, but then quickly realized that only my husband was able to hear their sweet voices. We could not figure out how to get the sound to come through his phone anymore, and we had to resort to a traditional call on my phone. Any advice is appreciated. Sincerely, FaceTime Grandma, Woodstock Dear FaceTime Grandma, How wonderful that your husband can plug in to the phone conversations a little more with his hearing devices, and, hopefully, they are doing more to help his hearing than just with the phone. We hear this scenario a lot, so you are not alone. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this problem. The hearing devices are connected via Bluetooth to your husband’s phone. Depending on what kind of phone you have, there are shortcuts to get you to the Bluetooth menu. If you do not know where those are located, you can always go through the settings on your phone and locate Bluetooth. Before you start the video call, turn off the Bluetooth. This will force that audio signal to go through only the phone. This will allow you both to hear your sweet grandbabies. When the call is over, simply turn the Bluetooth back on, so your husband can stream audio through his devices again. I hope this helps. Yours Truly, Dr. Mary Swantek Do you have a question for an audiologist? Email melissa@ngaudiology.com. Dr. Mary Swantek joined North Georgia Audiology in 2019. She earned her doctorate degree from the University of Florida and her bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University.
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
37
Creative Marketing, the Millennial Way BY RYAN BLYTHE
I interviewed Octavia Gilmore, founder and chief creative officer of Creative Juice. At 23, she launched her marketing firm and represents some of the most prominent companies in North Georgia, including Chick-fil-A, the Home Depot, MARTA, Equifax and Habitat for Humanity. A champion for entrepreneurship, Gilmore is dedicated to sharing the knowledge it takes to quit your day job and become your own boss.
What steps should business owners take to maximize their marketing efforts?
I think owners and executives need to pay attention to the effects of the pandemic, which has forced us to look at technology and the importance of human connection. While working virtually, we were able to see how we can leverage technology to be more efficient at our jobs. There are multiple channels in which your target audience is receiving content from organizations. So, you must develop a strategy and execute it in a way that sets your organization apart. Specifically, try utilizing the idea that consumers are constantly being fed various concepts from different media. People have transformed how and where they are working. With being comfortable in mind, decision-making has completely transformed over the past year and a half.
How is marketing different from branding?
Simply put, branding is the foundation of your organization. It defines who you are and what your organization stands for, which sets the standard for the experience your customer will have when working with you. Branding is a part of visual identity. It includes all your fonts, colors, logos and graphics, which are meant to trigger brand association with your company. Marketing, however, takes your brand and extends it into different channels. It is an external process of explaining the features and benefits of your services or products to your audience. Think of marketing as getting the word out. Branding is more internal; it is what you do to help people inform their opinions and thoughts about your company.
How important is choosing the right colors?
Having an established color palette for your branding and marketing materials is extremely important. There is a reason why, when someone sees red, they instantly think of Target. Or, if they see brown and yellow, they instantly think of UPS. You want the colors of your brand to be recognizable and easily distinguishable for your audience, so they can differentiate you from your competitors. Also, pay attention to color theory and the psychology behind it. For example, people perceive red as a color that makes them hungry, which is why a lot of fast-food restaurants use the color red. 38
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
A graphic design graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Octavia Gilmore launched her multiple six-figure marketing firm at age 23, despite not having a business degree.
What advice would you give to a new business owner with a limited budget?
It is imperative to have a strategy and focus on what is giving you the best return on investment; avoid a strategy that involves trying to keep up with things other companies do. For example, every business should be on social media. But, you must be deliberate about what platforms you are on and what you are saying on these platforms. Ask yourself, how will people receive us on these platforms? Everything you do needs to be strategic. The goal is to prioritize what is going to give you the best bang for your buck.
Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which for the sixth consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
39
Tennis vs. Pickleball: What’s the Difference? Pickleball and tennis often are compared; they are played on the same courts, after all. To give us a better understanding of the sport, Mike Walls compiled a list from Pickleball Kitchen (https:// pickleballkitchen.com) and added his insight on the major differences between pickleball and tennis.
Brenda Gaskins at Kennworth Park Tennis Center. Photo by Ginny Jarvis.
Let’s Play Pickleball! BY MIKE WALLS AND LINDA MUMMERT
In 2016, we were happy to see a report in the TowneLaker (a sister publication of Around Acworth) on the growing popularity of the sport with the “funny” name. This year, we are proud to report that, according to The Economist, pickleball is still the fastest growing sport in the United States! It began as a family recreational sport in 1965, and, today, there are professional leagues in the U.S. and around the world. Pickleball at the local level is usually a grassroots initiative, and those efforts can be seen in our communities and the surrounding areas. One of the reasons the sport is so popular is that it’s easy to play a game, or several games, at courts offering open-play pickleball. With an open-play format, all you need to do is show up, find the court that is matched to your level of play, and wait for your turn to jump in and join the fun. The game can be fast or slow, depending on skill level, and most participants are hooked after just one game. Many describe pickleball as a game of outdoor ping pong, played on downsized tennis courts, so hand-eye coordination is key to success. Tennis courts are often dual-purposed for pickleball, which means that the borders of the pickleball court are painted within the tennis court borders, and an adjustment is available to lower the net to the height of 34 inches, 2 inches lower than a tennis net. We believe this game with the funny name is here to stay for a long time. It is fun for all ages, an easy game to learn, and a challenging one to master. Players from all skill ratings can play together and have a fun match, or simply enjoy a healthy outside activity for all involved.
Mike and Linda are trying to “promote a good, positive outdoor experience for the community.” Visit the Pickle Brookshire page on Facebook.
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1.
The court dimensions are the same for singles and doubles. “This simplifies the game. You can switch easily from singles to doubles.”
2.
Overhead serving is not allowed. Serving in pickleball is underhand only. “This greatly enables a broader range of playing. A tennis serve takes a long time to master. In pickleball, you are essentially lobbing the ball over the net — unless you are an advanced player — and the return team must let the ball bounce once before returning. If you don’t have the ability to power the pickleball across on a serve, a hit into the correct quadrant (diagonally across) is all that is needed to put the ball in play!”
3.
There is no double fault with serving in pickleball. “This speeds up the game. If your serve is not good, it goes to your partner, unless you are the second server, in which case the serve goes to the other team.”
4.
In doubles, each player of a team gets to serve at least once until they lose their turn. “This enhances team play. You and your teammate have a different offense strategy when you have two turns at serving per team.”
5.
Pickleball is significantly easier on your knees. “Some will debate this, but the logic is that you are playing on much less real estate than a tennis court, and most pickleball is played as doubles. While aerobic, it is just as much a game of strategy as it is athletic ability.”
Places to Play
Our USA Pickleball Ambassador friends in Cobb County, Ginny Jarvis and Sherese Stringfield, gave us the “inside scoop” on all things pickleball in the county. Visit the NorthWest Georgia Pickleball and Pickleball Marietta Facebook pages for more information.
Acworth Community Center
• There are two indoor basketball courts also painted for pickleball in the center. Pickleball open play occurs 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays, and 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays. https://bit. ly/3wKapn0. • Pickleball lessons are available on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Registration required through Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department. 770-917-1234.
Coming Soon
• Kennesaw Parks and Recreation will have pickleball courts at the new Recreation Center at Adams Park. The opening of the center is slated for Jan. 8, 2022.
Cobb County Parks and Recreation Larry Yeoh, David Yap, Michael O’Leary and Mayor Tommy Allegood at the Acworth Community Center. Photo by Ginny Jarvis.
Tim Yaeger at Kennworth Park Tennis Center. Photo by Ginny Jarvis.
• Shaw Park — 11 total pickleball courts (one of which requires a portable net) are available for free pickleball play on a firstcome, first-served basis. • Oregon Park — six permanent pickleball courts available for free play on a first-come, first-served basis. • Kennworth Tennis Center — play at 9 a.m. Mondays. Cost is $2 for juniors and seniors, and $3 for adults. • Wild Horse Creek Park — two courts lined for play. Free to use, first-come, firstserved. • Lost Mountain Tennis Center — two courts lined for play. Cost is $2 for juniors and seniors, and $3 for adults. • Fair Oaks Tennis Center — four courts lined and shared on tennis courts. Cost is $2 for juniors and seniors, and $3 for adults. • Ward Recreation Center — free public play 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. Equipment is provided. • Fullers Recreation Center — two single courts lined and shared on the tennis courts. Free to use, first-come, first-served. 10 a.m.3 p.m. Monday-Friday. • Ron Anderson Recreation Center — free pickleball play noon-3 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Equipment is provided.
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
41
Senior Activities ALOHA TO AGING
Covenant Presbyterian Church 2881 Canton Road, Marietta 770-722-7641 // www.alohatoaging.org
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group. Meets the
first Tuesday each month at 2 p.m. Group discussion, for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner, on helpful tips and resources that provide comfort and encouragement.
Dementia Caregiver Support Group. Meets the first Monday each month at 2 p.m. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one, in or out of the home. Care provided during the meeting, but must RSVP in advance.
CITY OF ACWORTH Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department 770-917-1234 www.acworthparksandrecreation.org
Sept. 17
Active Adult Day Trip: Blue Ridge. Ages 55 and older are invited to visit Mercier’s apple farm, and explore Main Street in Blue Ridge for lunch and shopping. This trip involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Lunch is not included in the cost of the trip. Bus departs from the Acworth Community Center at 9 a.m. $10 for city residents, $15 for nonresidents.
COBB SENIOR SERVICES North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St., Acworth // 770-975-7740 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services
Aug. 9
Road to Safety. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Cobb County Police
Department will cover the topic of distracted driving and the hands-free driving law.
Aug. 10
Aloha Happy Hour. 1-2 p.m. Join Aloha to Aging and some friends for an hour of games.
Aug. 11
Food for Thought: All About Posture. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost is $3; lunch is provided. Learn more about the benefits of good posture from Revolution Chiropractic.
Aug. 12
Cobb County K-9 Unit. 1-2 p.m. Learn more about the Cobb County K-9 Unit, and see a police dog demonstration.
Aug. 16
How to Avoid Financial Scams. 10:30-11:30 a.m. North
Georgia Elder Abuse Task Force, Cobb County District Attorney’s office and local law enforcement will share how to avoid financial scams, fraud and other types of financial exploitation.
Aug. 17
Cooking with Cobb Extension. 11 a.m.-noon. Make a cool Caribbean coleslaw and a refreshing hibiscus tea that’s perfect for the summer. Join the live demonstration presented by the University of Georgia Cobb Extension. Samples provided.
Aug. 18
Mondays
Staying Safe in the Heat. 10 a.m.-noon. Learn tips for staying cool during hot summer months.
Learn traditional Korean movements to increase balance, mental focus and movement. Class is instructed by Omar Welch, who is a third-degree black belt and instructor certified by the U.S. Tae Kwon-Do Federation.
Blood Pressure Check. 10 a.m.-noon. Stop by for a blood pressure check; knowing your numbers is key to a longer healthier life.
Senior Warriors Gentle Movements. 10-10:30 a.m.
Wednesdays
Chair Yoga With Mary. 11 a.m.-noon. Also offered
on Mondays. Designed for adults 55 and older. This class is conducted in a chair, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.
Thursdays
Gentle Yoga With Mary. 1-2 p.m. Designed for adults 55 and older, but ages 18 and older are welcome. This class is conducted on a mat, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.
Zoom Cardio. 10 a.m., Oct. 7-Dec. 9. Elevate your
metabolism by moving rhythmically to music. This virtual class strengthens and tightens muscles using free weights. 42
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Aug. 19 Aug. 25
Fire Extinguisher Safety Class. 10 a.m.-noon. A Cobb County emergency management specialist will offer hands-on training, while teaching about types of fires and what fuels them.
VETERAN CONNECTION North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St. Meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Join veterans for an informal get-together with coffee, doughnuts, comradery and special guest presentations. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for more information on monthly meetings.
A ll atoon a Bu c c a n eer s 2021 va rsi t y Fo ot ba ll Sche d u le
No rt h C o bb C hr i st i an E Ag le s 2 0 2 1 var s i t y F o otb al l S c h e du l e
20 AUG
Harrison
24 sep
Wheeler
20 St. Francis AUG Away | 7:30 PM
27 AUG
Langston Hughes
15 OCT
Sprayberry
27 AUG
Home | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM
3 SEP
Kennesaw Mountain
10 SEP
South Cobb
17 SEP
Osborne
Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM
Away | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM
22 OCT
kell
29 OCT
Lassiter
5 NOV
Pope
Away | 7:30 PM
Hebron Christian Academy Away | 7:30 PM
3 SEP
Whitefield Academy
Home | 7:30 PM
Home | 7:30 PM 10 SEP
Home | 7:30 PM 17 SEP
Calvary Day
8 OCT
Bowdon
15 OCT
Walker
Away | 7:30 PM
22 Darlington OCT Home | 7:30 PM 29 OCT
Mount Paran Christian Away | 7:30 PM
Home | 7:30 PM
Fellowship Christian
Away | 7:30 PM
5 NOV
Christian Heritage
Home | 7:30 PM
Away | 7:30 PM
N ort h C o bb WA r r io r s
N o rth Pau l din g W o l fpack
2021 va rsi t y Fo ot ba ll Sche d u le
2 0 2 1 var s i t y F o otb al l S c h e dul e
20 AUG
Buford
8 OCT
Harrison
20 AUG
South Gwinnett
8 OCT
Marietta
27 AUG
Milton
15 OCT
Walton
27 AUG
South Paulding
15 OCT
Harrison
10 SEP
Alpharetta
22 OCT
Hillgrove
10 SEP
Roswell
22 OCT
Walton
17 SEP
Etowah
Marietta
17 SEP
Brookwood
24 sep
Home | 8:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM
North Gwinnett Home | 7:30 PM
29 OCT 5 NOV
Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM
North Paulding Away | 7:30 PM
1 OCT
Home | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM
Newnan
Away | 7:30 PM
29 OCT 5 NOV
Home | 7:30 PM Away | 7:30 PM Home | 7:30 PM
Hillgrove
Away | 7:30 PM
North Cobb
Home | 7:30 PM
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
43
Rob’s Rescues This dog’s tag number is 630132, and he is in cage 313 at Cobb County Animal Services. He is a small, 3-year-old Poodle. He was a stray and is a sweet, gentle dog. I think he would be a very loyal and good dog for anyone. This cat’s name is Stella. She is a large 1-year-old cat. She has a great color and pattern. She is very cuddly. I don’t know why someone wanted to turn this cat in, but here she is waiting for someone else to be lucky and pick her up.
Rob met with Dr. Good earlier this year to work on a video.
Remembering the Good of Marietta Veterinarian
Dr. Michael Good was a well-known veterinarian in Marietta and the founder of the Homeless Pets Foundation. He unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack in May, but his work and program will continue. I got to see him earlier this year as part of a Dr. Good Unleashed video. He was the very first interview I ever did, so I wanted to remember him by sharing that first interview from 2014. I was fortunate to watch Dr. Good in surgery, repairing a hematoma in a dog’s ear, before I sat down with him to hear about his ambitious plans for solving the country’s homeless pet problems.
How do you help dogs and cats?
Rob with 3-year-old Poodle.
First, I am a vet. I treat sick and injured animals. I get them healthy and help them stay healthy. I also founded the Homeless Pets Foundation (Homelesspets. com). The goal of this organization is to rescue animals and foster them and find homes for them. Part of this organization is the Homeless Pets Clubs, which educate school children starting at age 4 about animal rescue and how to properly care for animals. I have big plans for Homeless Pets Clubs and want to get them into as many schools, businesses and communities as I can. I also am involved in something called the Underhound Railroad, which helps move animals from the South to the North to find homes.
How many cats and dogs do you save every year?
One thousand pets, and many more through pet clubs and partners. (The count in 2021 is more than 25,000 pets rescued.)Awareness and education is key. If an animal can be pulled into a club, it will not be euthanized.
How many helpers do you have?
In rescue, I am aiming for 1 million helpers to tell the story of shelter animals. The more people that can foster and arrange clubs in the community the more animals can be saved.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
Rob and Stella the cat. 44
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
ERE! H D I K YOUR H a r r is o n Hoya s
K e n n e s aw M o un ta i n M usta n g s
North Cobb Wa rr i or s
2 0 2 1 va r s it y F o ot b a l l S chedul e
2021 va r sit y F o otb a l l Sc h ed u l e
2 0 2 1 va r sit y F o otb a l l Sc h e d u l e
20 Allatoona AUG Away | 7:30 PM
8 North Cobb OCT Away | 7:30 PM
20 East Paulding AUG Away | 7:30 PM
24 Lassiter SEP Home | 7:30 PM
20 Buford AUG Home | 8:30 PM
8 Harrison OCT Home | 7:30 PM
27 North Forsyth AUG Home | 7:30 PM
15 North Paulding OCT Home | 7:30 PM
27 Discovery AUG Home | 7:30 PM
8 South Cobb OCT Away | 7:30 PM
27 Milton AUG Home | 7:30 PM
15 Walton OCT Away | 7:30 PM
3 Langston SEP Hughes
22 Marietta OCT AWAY | 7:30 PM
3 Allatoona SEP Away | 7:30 PM
15 Pope OCT Home | 7:30 PM
10 Alpharetta SEP Home | 7:30 PM
22 Hillgrove OCT Home | 7:30 PM
17 Grayson SEP Home | 7:30 PM
29 Walton OCT Away | 7:30 PM
Wheeler 10 Sprayberry We22 LOVE to share OCT Home | 7:30 PM SEP Home | 7:30 PM
24 Marist SEP Away | 7:30 PM
5 Hillgrove NOV Away | 7:30 PM
Paulding 17 Kell 5 Osborne 24 North Gwinnett 5 North - to edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com, and include the | 7:30 PM SEP Away | 7:30 PM stopNOV SEP Home | 7:30 PM NOV Away Away | 7:30 PM
Away | 7:30 PM
Etowah 17 creative 29 Marietta the photos you SEP Away | 7:30 PM OCT Away | 7:30 PM take of that special day in your child’s life. Send your pictures - taken of one child or a group at the bus first name, grade and school.
KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY SEP 2
REINHARDT 8 PM | HOME
OCT 23
CAMPBELL* 4 PM | AWAY
SEP 11
GEORGIA TECH NOON | AWAY
OCT 30
GARDNER-WEBB* 1 PM | HOME
SEP 18
WOFFORD 6 PM | AWAY
NOV 6
ROBERT MORRIS * NOON | AWAY
OCT 2
JACKSONVILLE STATE 3 PM | HOME
NOV 13
NORTH ALABAMA* 3 PM | AWAY
OCT 9
HAMPTON* 2 PM | AWAY
NOV 20
MONMOUTH* 1 PM | HOME
OCT 16
NORTH CAROLINA A&T * 5 PM | HOME *
CONFERENCE GAME AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
45
Hummingbird Fall Migration Begins BY MASTER GARDENER EXTENSION VOLUNTEER JUDY ABBOTT
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are eastern North America’s only breeding hummingbird, and they occupy the largest breeding range of any North American hummingbird. Ruby-throats are the only hummingbird species that visit Georgia. These hummingbirds spend the winter in Central America or southern Mexico and begin migrating north in the spring. Hummingbirds can be seen in breeding grounds in the eastern United States as early as February, and some continue on to Canada. By late summer and early fall, breeding is complete, and the males start the migration south to Mexico and Central America. It’s hard to imagine, but many cross the Gulf of Mexico in a single flight. There doesn’t appear to be a definitive answer as to what triggers their migration. However, there are several likely factors: instinct, changes in daylight duration, cooling temperatures and the declining availability of flowers, nectar and insects.
A male ruby-throated hummingbird. 46
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
A female ruby-throated hummingbird.
To draw hummingbirds to your backyard, hang feeders and include plants that attract them. Favorites include trumpet honeysuckle, scarlet beebalm, lemon beebalm, bergamot, cardinal flower and trumpet creeper. Their spring migration coincides with flowering red buckeye, columbine and salvia. In addition to nectar, hummingbirds also eat spiders and tiny insects, such as flies, gnats and aphids, as a source of fat and protein. When placing your feeders, be mindful not to make the hummingbirds easy targets for cats. Also, male hummingbirds aggressively defend their food source with wild acrobatic chases and fights, so avoid placing the feeders near windows that they could collide with. When choosing a feeder, the two most important features are: how easy they are to clean and how big they are. The best feeder size is a small one that is emptied every day or two by the feeding birds. Since they are very territorial, four individual feeders with one feeding port each will attract and sustain more hummingbirds than one large feeder with multiple ports. Hummingbird food is easy to make with just sugar and water, but make sure to use ordinary table sugar. Do not use honey to make hummingbird food, since adding water to honey causes bacteria and fungus to grow. If you mix fresh batches every day or two, the normal mixture is 1⁄4 cup of sugar to 1 cup of water. However, mixing larger batches, and refrigerating for future use, requires boiling the water before adding the sugar. There’s no need to add colored commercial mixes or red food coloring to sugar
CHUNKY SOUP · CHILI PASTA SAUCE · BEANS CORN · CANNED Meats CANNED Pasta · Rice Ramen Noodles Peanut Butter Cereal · Oatmeal Our urgent food supply is disappearing quickly! Can you donate today?
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www.mustministries.org water. Flower nectar is clear, and red food coloring could be harmful to hummingbirds. Help prevent your sugar solution from spoiling by placing your hummingbird feeders in semi-shaded areas. Change the solution before it becomes cloudy or discolored. Remember that hot weather will cause sugar water to rapidly ferment and produce toxic alcohol. During the fall migration, it is recommended to keep at least one feeder up for about two weeks after sighting your last bird. You don’t want to miss any late-migrating hummers so hang up some feeders, and enjoy the show! If you’re interested in what colors hummingbirds can actually see and identify, a Princeton research team investigated how birds respond to flower colors that advertise a nectar reward. Their experiments revealed that, unlike humans, hummingbirds have a fourth color cone that allows them to see colors in combination with ultraviolet light. Visit www.environment.princeton.edu for more information.
The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County (MGVOCC) supports the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and strives to improve the quality of life in our community by delivering research-based horticultural information, educational programs and projects.
Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension in Marietta. AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Around & About AUGUST
Through Nov. 4
The Fun in the Park Photo Contest is open to all photographers, and the entry deadline is Nov. 4. Bring your camera to capture the fun and memories in Cobb parks and facilities. See the rules and download the entry form at www.cobbcounty.org/ parks/programs/fun-park-photo-contest.
Cobb County Storytellers, a cluster of 10 the Southern Order of Storytellers, meet on
the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Due to the pandemic, virtual meetings have been hosted by Margaret Edinburgh; contact her for more information at cobbcountystorytellers@gmail.com, or visit https://cobbcountystorytellers.org. The fourth annual Tennis and Pickleball 11 for Susan will be at Marietta Country Club. Pickleball begins at 7:30 a.m. A luncheon, program and silent auction will follow the tournaments. Funds raised will benefit the orphans Saving Susan Ministry serves. Register at www.savingsusanministry.org/tennis.
Open Mic Nights are every third Friday 20 through September. Local artists perform
6-8 p.m. at the pedestrian underpass off Main Street in downtown Kennesaw. If you are interested in performing, or want more information, send a message to Elevated Events on Facebook.
& Peaches BBQ Festival 20-21 isPigs at Adams Park in Kennesaw,
6-10 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday. Celebrating its 20th year, the festival features two days of non-stop music, good eats, cold beer and interactive family fun.www.pigsandpeaches.com. The fourth annual Acworth-Cobb 21 Dragon Boat Festival will be 9 a.m-4
p.m. at Dallas Landing Park. The boat race and festival will benefit Loving Arms Cancer Outreach, a nonprofit that supports cancer patients in the community. Visit https://acworthdragonboatfest. com for more information, to form a team to race, or to donate items to be used as prizes.
Team Kennesaw during the City Race at the 2019 event. Photo by Brittany Weir. 48
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
SEPTEMBER
in the Park 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Bring your dogs 7 Bark to close out the season at the Splash Pad at Swift-
Cantrell Park in Kennesaw. Admission will be $2 per dog and 25 dogs will be allowed in the Splash Pad at a time. www.kennesaw-ga.gov/event/bark-in-the-park-2.
Pints & Pigskins is set for noon-10 p.m. 11 atPizza, Logan Farm Park. Admission is free. Bring the
whole family for food and fun. The Return - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute Band concert starts at 8 p.m. Reserved tables will be available to purchase. For information, call 770-423-1330 or e-mail billwatson@jrmmanagement.com.
Airaoke will commemorate the 20th anniversary of
9/11, and proceeds will benefit Cobb County firefighters. Spectators and singers can purchase tickets at www. eventbrite.com/e/airaoke-tickets-154076102771 to join the karaoke contest, silent auction, and win door prizes from 5-10 p.m. at the Cobb County International Airport.
The annual Rose Garden Gala will be 6-10 18 p.m. at Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Enjoy an evening under the stars benefiting the Smith-Gilbert Gardens Foundation. https://smithgilbertgardens.com/event/ annual-rose-garden-gala.
Cars on the Lake returns to Dallas Landing Park from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The annual car show fundraiser benefits the Save Acworth History Foundation. saveacworthhistory.org.
NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR Sept. 23-Oct. 3
The fair is open 4-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4 p.m.midnight Fridays; 10 a.m.-midnight Saturdays; and 12:30-10 p.m. Sundays. The 88th annual fair, at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, features live music, ground acts and shows, blue-ribbon competitions for handmade goods and items, concerts and fair food. Parking is $5; gate admission is $10. Children ages 10 and younger admitted free. Online advance tickets are $7 at www.northgeorgiastatefair.com. Half-price tickets are $5 at all metro Atlanta O’Reilly Auto Parts stores, Sept. 1-Oct. 3. Concerts are free with fair admission:
Sept. 24: We Are Messengers Sept. 25: Chris Lane Sept. 29: Gabby Barrett Sept. 30: Jon Langston Oct. 1: Chase Rice Oct. 2: Mark Wills
A scene from the 2019 Mother Son Camp Out. Photo by Brooke Vande Zande.
The annual Mother Son Camp Out, organized 18 by the Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department, begins at noon on Saturday at
Proctor Landing Park, and ends at 10 a.m. on Sunday. This event is open to mothers and their sons, 13 and younger. Participants will camp alongside Lake Allatoona while learning about nature and participating in a variety of outdoor activities. Volunteers will be available to assist with setting up each campsite. For more information or to register, visit www.acworthparksandrec.org.
For more information, visit the website or call 770-423-1330 (770-528-8989 after Sept. 7).
FARMERS MARKETS Marietta Square Farmers Market is year-round on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information visit, www.mariettasquarefarmersmarket.com
Through Aug. 11
Kennesaw Farmer’s Market is open 3:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, at Kennesaw First Baptist Church. Details available on the Kennesaw Farmers Market Facebook page.
Through Aug. 12
Mableton Farmers Market is open 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.,
Thursdays, at Mable House Complex. Details available on the Mableton Farmers Market Facebook page.
Through Sept. 25
Dallas Farmers Market is open for the season at Regions Bank in downtown Dallas. Hours are 8 a.m-noon. Details available on the Dallas Farmers Market Facebook page.
Through Oct. 29
Acworth Farmers Market is open 8 a.m.-noon Fridays
at Logan Farm Park. Market customers will have a wide variety of garden-ripe Georgia grown vegetables, eggs, cheese, bedding plants, fresh baked bread, pies, cakes, honey and jams. For information, call 770-917-1234.
Through Dec. 18
Woodstock’s Farm. Fresh. Market. Now open for the season on Saturdays on Market Street. Hours are 8:30 a.m.noon. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com. AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Discover the Coves on “Anybody know how to get to the falls?” “Where is Flamingo Cove?” “Anyone know where Blockhouse is?” These are all common questions seen on Allatoona Lake Life, a private Facebook group dedicated to the lake we all love. With 30,000-plus members, location questions are common within the group. Many of the coves have unofficial names and cannot be found with a simple Google search. This map was created to help provide a better resource for all who enjoy the lake. Coves, marinas and lake restaurants are all labeled. The frequently-requested location of the mysterious waterfall is also shown (although please be careful, the
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
water is very shallow back in that area and is generally only recommended for kayaks and jet skis). Keep this map handy so you can always find the most popular, and most secluded, spots on the lake. The map was created by RCam Laser & Design, a small laser engraving, custom apparel, and personalized gifts company in Woodstock. Digital files and laser engraved versions of the map also are available. For more Allatoona Lake-related items, please visit www.allatoonagear.com. — Randy Knibb
Downtown Acworth Dining 1885 Grill
The Fountain
Nibbles Grill
Bert & Boo's Bake Shop
Fusco's via Roma Italian Trattoria
Pizza By Fuscos
Center Street Tavern
J.D.’s Bar-B-Que
Southern Coastal 4438 Cherokee St. 770-672-0508 www.1885grill.com/welcome-acworth
Bakery 3900 Old McEver Rd. 470-582-6717 www.bertandboos.com Facebook: @bertboos
Cocktail Bar and Pub Grub 4843 N. Main St. 678-403-8898 Facebook: The Fountain - Acworth
Italian 4815A S. Main St. 770-974-1110 fuscosviaroma.com Facebook: @fuscosviaroma
American/ Traditional 4381 Senator Russell Ave. 770-917-0004 www.centerstreettavern.com
4424 S. Main St. 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com
Dogwood Terrace
Henry’s Louisiana Grill
Doro’s Italian Restaurant
L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine
American/ Traditional 4975 N. Main St. 770-627-4069 www.dogwoodterraceacworth.com Italian 3979 S. Main St.,Suite 250 678-903-2607 www.dorositalian.com
Fish Thyme Restaurant and Bar
Seafood 3979 S. Main St., Suite 5657 770-974-2323 www.newsite.fishthymerestaurant.com
Barbeque
Cajun 4835 N. Main St. 770-966-1515 www.chefhenrys.com
Grill/Diner-Breakfast Burgers 4628 S. Main St. 404-312-7597 www.nibblesgrillacworth.com Pizza 4815B S. Main St. 678-426-7503 www.pizzabyfuscos.com
Red Top Brewhouse
Pub Grub 4637 S. Main St. 470-893-0425 www.redtopbrewhouse.com
Rico’s Mex Mex Grill
Mexican 3770 Southside Dr. 770-917-9791 Facebook: @Ricos-Mex-Mex-Grill
Southern
4417 S. Main St. 770-694-1949 www.lmaries.net
Miss L’s Sandwich Shop Sandwiches
4817 S. Main St. 770-966-9709 Facebook: @Miss-Ls-Sandwich-Shop
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Cobb Photographic Society Congratulations to each of you who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for the June contest was “statues.” The guest judge was Robin Davis. The Cobb Photographic Society is a photography club open to photographers of all skill levels. The club meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.
Color
Umit Yuksel - 1st Place (Statue Row)
Novice
Jemetria Mabrey - 1st Place (Hold On) 52
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
Jemetria Mabrey - 2nd Place (Shattered Pieces)
Black & White
Charles Stannard - 1st Place (Garden Corner) AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Advertisers August 2021
ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
CREDIT UNIONS 1
Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com
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7
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BUSINESS SUPPORT Lakeside Executive Suites 404-401-0225
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CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS Airaoke 36 www.airaoke.org Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue www.mostlymutts.org
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MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
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COUNSELING Thrive Counseling Center 678-217-7529 www.thrivecounselingcenter.com
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
Daniel Lee DMD, PC 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com
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Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implants Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com EDUCATION SERVICES
AUTOMOTIVE KAMS Auto Service Center 770-956-4060 www.kamsauto.com
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DENTAL
AUDIOLOGY North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com
FOOTBALL
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Allatoona High Buccaneers
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Kennesaw State Owls Football www.ksuowls.com
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North Cobb Christian School Eagles
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North Cobb Warriors
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North Paulding High Wolfpack
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FUNERAL SERVICES Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com
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Brookwood Christian School 678-401-5855 www.brookwoodchristian.com
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GOLD PURCHASING
Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com
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The Gold & Coin Exchange Inside front 770-419-0292 www.goldandcoinexchange.com
North Cobb Christian School 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org
HAIR SALON Back cover
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Courier Express 678-626-4132 www.courierexpress.net
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HEALTH & WELLNESS 21
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Bay Equity Home Loans Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644 www.jayclosesloans.com
élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com
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DNC Nutrition Centers 770-529-6683 www.dncnutrition.com
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Your CBD Store-Acworth 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com
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HOME & GARDEN Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com
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Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
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Legacy Custom Blinds 404-430-5288 www.legacycustomblinds.com Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 [675-8651] www.mrjunk1.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES 21
Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com
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REAL ESTATE Shriver Mechanical 27 Anchor Realty Partners 7 770-975-1927 Malinda Howe, Broker: 404-444-0225 www.shrivermechanical.com Deborah Hill: 770-361-9200 Office: 770-917-0322 Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 37 www.malinda-howe.com 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com Compass, Liz Mensey 13 Mobile: 404-398-8110 PEST CONTROL Office: 404-668-6621 One Dead Bug 3 Clear Summit Realty 11 404-704-4685 Ken Jones: 770-842-4531 www.onedeadbug.com www.clearsummitrealty.com
Debi Smith Properties Direct: 404-660-6652 Office: 770-240-2004 debismith.atlcommunities.com
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RESTAURANTS J.D.'s Bar-B-Que 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com
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RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net
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SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES Celebration Village 678-594-3570 www.cvillage.com
Inside front
DayBreak Village Senior Living Cover, 28-29 770-218-6166 www.daybreakvillage.com
5 TITLES STRONG TO C I R C TA L ULA TION
Serving the Community Since 1996
84,400
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:
Jennifer Coleman, Director of Marketing 678-279-5502 | Jen@AroundaboutMagazines.com
AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Kennesaw, 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.
OUR PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNERS We work with some of the best professional photographers in the business.
Jerry King J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com
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AROUND ACWORTH | August 2021
Joseph Baum Maniac Agency www.maniacagency.com
Heather Stevens Joyful Day Photography 678-947-1200 www.joyfuldayphoto.com
Beth Fornuto Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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