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AROUND CANTON | August 2022
1
18 10 Contents On The Cover
12 August 2022
Features
10 Flower Power!
Learn how artist Madison Beaulieu created Canton’s newest mural on Lee Street.
12 Girl Scouts Strike Gold
Six Cherokee County Girl Scouts are making a difference by working toward their Gold Awards.
18 Meet Velinda Hardy
Get to know Canton’s downtown development manager and what she loves about our community.
In Every Issue 4 Around Canton
8 Downtown Events
The Dean Team
Joshua Dean says his goal is to make the homebuying process a positive, memorable experience that clients will look back on fondly. Joshua’s family also is important to him. Here he is with wife Tina, Judah, 10, Gracie, 6, and Grantly, 9.
Pages 28 & 29
Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits 2
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
22 Local News
26 Celebrations
Contributors 49 Kelley Archer
45 Charlice Byrd 27 Cherokee Women’s
Health Specialists
16 Bill Grant 48 Barbara Jacoby 20 Lauren Johnson 32 Harry Johnston 42 Susannah MacKay 43 Rob Macmillan 40 John Rodgers 34 Jennifer Ruscilli
40 Library Events
24 Susan Schulz
44 Everyday Angels
38 The Wanderer
43 Rob’s Rescues
50 Community Calendar 52 Shop Local Map
54 Directory of Advertisers
30 Elisabeth Stubbs
. .
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
3
Around Canton Letter From the Editor
As we limp through this humid season, the dog days of summer have taken on a new meaning for this owner of canines: Walks with the puppies at this time of year end with the need for a shower and a huge glass of water! Or, I just send Glenn and stay cool in the air conditioning. Here’s a fun fact: The phrase dog days of summer refers to the time when Sirius, the dog star, appears to rise alongside the sun, creating twice as much heat with the two stars in alignment. I learned that in a Google search, which took me to the National Geographic website. What did we do without Google? Actually, I can answer my own question. We would consult our encyclopedias, either the alphabetized volumes or those special annual editions that you knew you had to have to stay up to date with the world. Here’s another fun fact: Encyclopedia Britannica and World Book (my personal favorite) have gone digital. No surprise, really, but for someone who loves to hold the print product in her hand, it’s just not the same. In addition to thumbing through encyclopedias, so much about this issue has sent me on a journey down memory lane. Before sending three kiddos to college, I wish I had been able to hear from current and past college students, who share the essentials that made the transition easier for them. (Pages 46-47.) Bill Grant takes us on a photographic trip down memory lane as we travel with him to the Canton Farmers Market as long ago as 2013 (Pages 16-17). Our next stop on the Roadmap to Success is a look at development and investment in the city: creating jobs, attracting investors and creating tourism opportunities. (Pages 20-21). I had so much fun when I was a Girl Scout leader for seven years - we won’t discuss exactly how long ago that was. I can appreciate the hard work the young ladies that we feature on Pages 12-15 have done to earn their Gold Awards. I’m feeling older by the minute, thinking of how my children are now in their late 20s and early 30s. This issue has brought back bittersweet memories; while I miss those very busy days, I’m certainly thankful and proud of the adults my babies have become. Because I remember encyclopedias, which the internet has labeled vintage, does that make me vintage as well? Never mind! Don’t answer that.
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com
4
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Our Best for Bridal 2023 contest begins Oct. 1.
What’s Coming
A shelter for clean and sober homeless veterans in Cherokee and Cobb counties is planned for just south of Allatoona Lake on Bells Ferry Road. According to Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program Director Jim Lindenmayer, the 13,087-square-foot building will have room for 40 males in a dorm environment, a main kitchen and dining area, conference room, learning lab, food and clothing pantry, as well as offices for program leaders. A separate structure will be added to accommodate female veterans. The current plan is for an October groundbreaking.
What’s New
At press time, Buff City Soap had planned a July 21 opening at 1810 Cumming Highway. The Texas-based company is known for its plant-based soap and body products, and offers shoppers a chance to watch the soaps being made. www.buffcitysoap.com.
Kudos!
The Canton Theatre has been named among the 10 Best Historic Theaters in Georgia by Best Things Georgia. Marietta’s Strand Theater, Atlanta’s Fox Theater and The Historic Savannah Theater were among the top 10. More details at https://bestthingsga.com/historic-theaters.
Cherokee Chamber Ribbon Cuttings
Community Bank of Pickens County
1353 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 140, Canton 770-213-2080. www.cbopc.com.
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5
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com
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www.aroundcantonmagazine.com AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. A total of 17,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 16,600 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 400 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 5th of each month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Canton, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189.
The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims to the validity of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses. 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 2022. Volume 10, Issue 5
America’s Community Magazine
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AROUND CANTON | August 2022
7
IN town AUGUST
04 Trivia Night on the Green
begins at 7 p.m. Thursdays. Gather your dream team and compete for first-, second- and third-place prizes at The Mill on Etowah. www.etowahmill.com.
06 Canton Farmers Market
is open for the season in Brown Park and continues weekly, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct. 15. https://bit.ly/3w3RTco.
13
MUSIC
Canton First Friday
The monthly block party, sponsored by the Canton Main Street Program, runs 6-9 p.m. in downtown Canton. www.cantonga.gov. On Facebook.
Aug. 5: Sept. 2: Oct. 7:
Bumpin’ the Mango Kinchafoonee Cowboys On the Border — the Ultimate Eagles Tribute
Music at The Mill
Enjoy live music at The Mill on Etowah, 7-9 p.m. www.etowahmill.com. Aug. 6: Nero Simon and the Sunsetters Aug. 13: The Band Waleska Aug. 20: Backyard Chickens Aug. 27: Cody Matthews Band
THEATER
The ninth annual Chick-fil-A Moo’ve It 5K, benefiting the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and the Cherokee County Special Olympics, is at Etowah River Park in Canton, 8 a.m. www.cfamooveit.com. The Canton Farmers Market Pie Contest is back at the market on Aug. 13. To enter your pie, visit www.cantonga.gov/piecontest2022. First place winners will compete at the Cherokee Pie Finals in Woodstock on Aug. 27.
21
Shop locally-made goods at Maker’s Mash, a pop-up shop featuring local artisans, every third Sunday, 1-6 p.m., at Reformation Brewery. www.etowahmill.com.
26 tribute concert
Join the Georgia Players Guild for an Eagles , 8-10 p.m. at the Canton Theatre. https://gpg.ticketleap.com/cantoneagles/ details.
27
The River Rock Summer Concert Series wraps up the 2022 season with Electric Avenue. Bring your family, friends, lawn chair and coolers to Etowah River Park amphitheater, 6-10 p.m., for the free concert. www.cantonga.gov.
SEPTEMBER
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare.
08 10
Oct. 21-23, 28-30
24 Festival
Cherokee Theatre Company www.cherokeetheatre.org
Aug. 12-14, 19-21
Directed by Ed Palombo. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.
“A Party to Murder” by Marcia Kash and Douglas E.
Hughes. Directed by Jeannie and Wally Hinds. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre. 8
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Save the date! Taste of Canton will be downtown, 5-9 p.m. www.cantonga.gov.
Canton’s Multicultural Festival returns to Etowah River Park, 11 a.m.- 3p.m. www.cantonga.gov. The 38th annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts will be at Etowah River Park, Sept. 24-25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5. Ages 10 and younger are free. https://serviceleague.net/fundraisers/riverfest.
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I helped him paint the mural he designed at the downtown Woodstock playground. Working on the Lee Street mural was nice. I designed this one, and he helped me paint it. I loved the early mornings, watching the sun creep down the wall.
When did work begin?
Madison chose coneflowers as the focus for the Canton, Georgia Wildflower Mural.
Madison Beaulieu
The Artist Behind the Newest Mural How did you get involved?
I had originally submitted concepts for the mural along Railroad Street. I made the finals, but ultimately my concept wasn’t chosen for that project. I’m so glad it worked out that way! For one thing, it connected me with Canton Councilmember Brooke Schmidt, who is an absolute dream to work with. And, the Railroad Street mural by Shanna Coulter is an amazing tribute to Canton’s history, present and future. I really reworked my concept for the Lee Street mural. I love that ideas can evolve over time and become better and better. The concept I presented was bright and fun. It felt more true to me.
Why did you choose your design?
Murals bring people together. They tend to create a natural place to stop and observe. I chose coneflowers as the focus because they are native to Georgia and have so many healing properties. I think art has that power, too — creating it and experiencing it is healing. Coneflowers seem like the perfect flower to celebrate right now. Like many of us, I became a gardener during the pandemic. I started with two raised beds. Now, I have five raised beds, wildflowers, plans for an in-ground garden and five of the sweetest chickens you’ll ever meet. 10
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Getting my hands in the dirt and watching things grow gave me a lot of peace and hope for the future. My own stand of coneflowers is in full swing this year, and absolutely covered in pollinators. I love watching my boys nab a strawberry from the garden while the chickens scratch around. There is something so quietly joyful about that.
Describe your background.
I’ve always been an artist. I paint, draw and print letterpress cards. My stationery company is called Beau Paper Co. I have a background in marketing and content creation, but I’d say I started my art career in earnest in 2015. My husband and I designed, and screen-printed posters, paper goods and wedding invitations from our sunporch. Now, we rent studio space in Made Mercantile in downtown Woodstock. More recently, I’ve worked hard to refine my style and color palette. I have grown so much as an artist since our twins were born. Kids force you to be more creative and make the most of every spare moment. Because my husband, Dusty, also is an artist, art is just woven into our daily lives. I can’t really communicate just how much his support means to me. He’s the best. Dusty and I tend to work together on projects whenever we can. Previously,
We began working on the mural in April, and completed it early June. It was about an eight-week process, with five of those weeks on the street painting. So much work happens before paint touches the wall. I had to take my concepts, expand it to the 62-foot wall and plan some workarounds for existing pipes and air conditioning units. Once the final sketch was approved, I purchased supplies, color matched the paint and hit the street.
Did anyone stop to chat?
So many great people stopped. I loved it! There were the folks who would shout encouragement on their morning walk, and drivers who would slow down and wave. One lady was visiting from Florida and got to see almost each stage of the mural. I took her photo, and we had a good chat. The fire crew at Station 16 was great. I got to know many of the local business owners on the block, too. Laurie Sutton from Bananas and Beehives was so kind. I had way too many croissants while working on the mural, but they are so good! Definitely coordinate your photo session at the mural in the morning. That is when the lighting is best, and you can grab a tasty treat, too!
Madison and Dusty Beaulieu
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MADELYN ALLEN
From left, Madison Smith, Jordan Schilling, Julia Sick and Madelyn Allen.
Cherokee County Girl Scouts
for The Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouts, has been a part of the program since 1916. Since then, more than 1 million young women have earned the award. The Gold Award recognizes girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through community service projects that have a sustainable impact on our community and beyond. In executing a Gold Award project, a girl first must identify a local issue that she is passionate about. She must identify the root cause of the issue and create a plan to address it. While working on her project, she also must educate people about the issue, and inspire them to get involved. Finally, her project must be sustainable, continuing once her efforts are completed. Just like the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Award, the Gold Award often plays a critical role in college acceptance and scholarship processes. As a recipient of the award, girls can enter the armed forces one rank higher than other recruits, and recipients usually have higher success rates when looking for a job. This summer, six Cherokee County Girl Scouts — Julia Sick, Katie Collier, Kyra Gosselin, Madison Smith, Jordan Schilling and Madelyn Allen — are working toward their Gold Awards. Here are some of the girls’ descriptions of their projects, and details of how you can get involved. 12
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
I’ve been a Girl Scout for 10 years, and I’ve always enjoyed being outside, in nature. With Scouts, I’ve gotten to go camping, hiking and canoeing, as well as learn about the importance of taking care of our environment. When I was a student at Holly Springs Elementary, I learned a lot about STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). There are lots of opportunities in STEM, especially for women, but it seems like most of the careers involve being inside all day. For my Gold Award project, Fresh Air Careers, I researched and found many careers in the STEM field that enable you to spend time outside. Throughout this summer, I have been educating elementary students, especially girls, about these opportunities. In June, I had the pleasure to lead the science unit at our local Girl Scout summer day camp, Camp Camellia Rose. It was wonderful to work with more than 115 campers and explain to them all the options open to them in the STEM world. I also created a PowerPoint presentation that will be shown to elementary school students in our community about outdoor-based STEM careers. I would love to spread the word to anyone interested in STEM. If you would like additional information about the project, or the presentation, please email freshaircareers2022@gmail.com.
Madelyn at Camp Camellia Rose.
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AROUND CANTON | August 2022
13
JULIA SICK
Jordan at The Phoenix at Union Hill’s new greenhouse.
JORDAN SCHILLING
I am a senior at Creekview High School, and my Gold Award project is focused on educating people, especially the elderly, about the mental and physical health benefits of gardening. I am working with the residents of The Phoenix at Union Hill, a retirement community in Canton. I am providing residents with information and resources to help them benefit from being outdoors and gardening. I selected this issue because I am very close with my grandpa. He has always been there to toss the ball for batting practice or help me get faster running the bases. Now, as I get ready to graduate from high school, I’ve seen how much he is slowing down, and it makes me sad. I want to help people like my grandpa and show them that they can be active and improve their mental and physical health, by doing something as simple and enjoyable as gardening. Gardening is known to improve the moods of seniors, as well as keep the muscles moving, which can ease arthritis and prevent stiffness. Many studies also show that gardening may lower the risk for dementia and mental decline. This could be because gardening requires the use of many critical functions, including dexterity and sensory awareness. Through my Gold Award project, I am working with the residents to create a garden and greenhouse. I also will be sharing my project with other senior facilities in our community, so their clients can enjoy a healthier and happier life as well.
14
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
I have been a Girl Scout for 12 years. Growing up, my family and I always looked for ways to help the community, whether it be providing donations to charities or volunteering at various soup kitchens. I have recognized how severe poverty can impact the well-being and health of others, especially when related to hardships such as food insecurity. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, poverty has dramatically increased across the nation, leaving thousands of families without the proper income to provide a stable supply of meals for their families. Seeing how our county, much like thousands of counties across the nation, has been impacted by the pandemic, I wanted to figure out something I could do to help combat food insecurity in my community — something that could help provide a steady source of food to those in need. With that in mind, I partnered with House of Hope, a nonprofit organization that collects food donations and redistributes those donations to families challenged by food insecurity. My Gold Award is centered around bolstering House of Hope’s Blue Bag Program, by encouraging adults in Cherokee County to sign up and continually fill up blue bags. The Blue Bag program is a sustainable, consistent food donation system, where people provide donations every other month. Participants are given blue bags and fill them with requested canned and boxed food items. Bags are left on the participant’s front porch on an assigned pickup date. House of Hope helpers pick up the bags and leave an empty bag for the next pickup. Please help me make a difference by visiting my table near the Chamber House in downtown Canton at the First Friday celebration on Aug. 5. I will provide a sign-up sheet for those interested in the program. If you wish to help, but do not feel you are able to commit on an ongoing basis, I will be collecting food donations. If you would like to sign up for the program now, or if you would like additional information, email wendy@ houseofhopefreehome.com.
Julia in House of Hope’s food pantry.
MADISON SMITH
Katie educates others about the importance of proper horse care.
KATIE COLLIER
I am a rising senior at Creekview High School and a Girl Scout for 12 years. I am glad to say that I have made so many amazing friendships along the way. Growing up, I always loved being around animals and hated seeing one that was not getting treated the way it should be. I got this from my grandmother, who also loved animals, especially horses. My grandmother always had at least one horse, and every time I went to her house, I would beg to go riding. Riding with my grandmother inspired me to focus my Gold Award project on enriching the horse-care community. The main goal for my project is to educate others about the importance of proper horse care, and what that care looks like. I want to be able to get this message out to as many people as I can, and help local horses in any way possible. I reached out to Bearfoot Ranch, a nonprofit equestrian center in Canton that dedicates its services to helping others learn to ride, while also helping rescue horses. After meeting with a team member at the ranch, I learned that they need help with a project — building hitching posts (the poles you tie horses to that keeps the horse and others safe). Along with building hitching posts at Bearfoot Ranch this summer, I created an informational video for their website about proper, appropriate horse care. If you are a part of the horse-care community, or are hoping that one day you will be, please watch my YouTube video at https://bearfootranch.org or my YouTube channel, Katie Collier – Gold Award Project. By watching it, you potentially can help or save a horse!
I’m a senior at Cherokee High School and a Girl Scout for almost 11 years. That time has been filled with lots of mosquito bites and s'mores, but I truly have learned to appreciate the outdoors, especially the water. Growing up with a pool in my backyard, spending my summers lifeguarding, and volunteering as the canoeing counselor at two Girl Scout camps, I understand why people love spending their time in the water. Although water activities are enjoyed by many, I recognize that water is dangerous when the proper precautions are not taken. Lakefront activities, such as canoeing, kayaking and boating, can be fatal, and that is why I decided to focus my Gold Award project, Safe Splashes, on preventing incidents in natural water. When I decided on my project, I partnered with Wildlife Action, a nonprofit whose resource center and campground is in Acworth; Safe Kids Cherokee, an organization dedicated to protecting children in our community; and local EMTs. I am creating a water safety video, with the help of these partners, to educate our community on floatation devices, the buddy system, how to assess your child’s swimming ability and how to handle water emergencies if they occur. Water safety begins with education. You can help with my project by following my Instagram page, @safesplashescherokee, and watching my video, which is linked on my profile. If you would like additional information, you also may directmessage that account.
Madison demonstrates how to safely operate a kayak. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
15
Farmers Market SNAPSHOTS PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAYOR BILL GRANT
City Manager Billy Peppers and his sons, Turner and Jennings.
Joseph Elias of Joe’s Lonestar Tacos.
16
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
The Canton Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 15, has been a community staple for years. Local growers, gardeners and food vendors sell vibrant produce and fresh baked goods at the market, which fosters a sense of community by bringing us together for something we all enjoy: food! Mayor Bill Grant, who is often at the market, shared some of the photos from his collection. “As a foodie, I love exploring the market and talking to the farmers and makers to learn more about their products, how to use them and how they grow or create them. I find this connection to our place very important, more so every year,” he said. Check out these photos to see if you recognize any of your neighbors at the market through the years.
From left, Mayor Bill Grant, District 23 Rep. Mandi Ballinger, Ward 1 Councilmember Sandy McGrew and former Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood as judges at the market’s Tomato Sandwich Festival.
Over the years, canned fruits and veggies have been a market favorite.
Mayor Bill Grant’s favorite day of the market is when okra first arrives.
Pie Bar owner Lauren Bolden offers a taste of pie during the market’s Farm Bureau Pie Contest. Back row, from left: Billy Peppers, Gene Hobgood and Sandy McGrew. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
17
What is your background?
Get to K n ow
Velinda Hardy Canton’s Downtown Development Manager
What is your main responsibility?
My goal each day is to tell the story of downtown Canton, which includes organizing the weekly Canton Farmers Market, planning Canton’s First Friday concert series and showcasing its businesses and restaurants to the community and its many visitors. I also serve as the staff liaison for the city’s Main Street program and Downtown Development Authority.
Describe a typical day on the job.
Every day is different, which I totally love. One day I can be focused on upcoming events or preparing state reports, and the next I am attending a ribbon-cutting for our new wildflower mural or a recently opened downtown business. I enjoy being out in the community as much as possible, sharing the downtown Canton story. I appreciate the opportunities I am given to visit other downtowns and bring back ideas to incorporate here. With this type of job, I definitely have learned to be flexible. 18
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
I joined the city of Canton team in March 2019. My love for seeing an entrepreneur turn their dream into a small business and then flourish has been an ongoing passion of mine. It began in my hometown of Opelika, Alabama, where I realized I wanted to be a ‘main streeter’ (people who are involved with Main Street for many years). Since Alabama didn’t have a program in place at that time, I read information and visited as many neighboring downtowns as possible. My title was executive director of Opelika Main Street. I guess you can say I have ‘street smarts.’ With no real budget other than what we could bring in with the Main Street membership drive and loyal sponsors for events, we were able to offer wonderful opportunities to our downtown businesses. Through this position, I was able to give back to the community that gave me so much growing up. On Saturdays, it was a treat to go to town with my grandmother. We would get fresh fruits and vegetables from the growers parked along 8th Street. It was because of my childhood memories and love for the dying art of farming that the Opelika Main Street Farmers Market began. The name and location may have changed, but I’m proud to say the O Grows Farmers Market is still going strong. I’m in my 17th year of being a #LoveLocal enthusiast and main streeter.
What brought you to Georgia?
I moved to Georgia in May 2014, two days after my daughter got married and moved to Colorado. I had taken a short pause from the Main Street world and was catering and substitute teaching. A month before I moved, in April, a friend sent me a job posting for a Main Street director position. She said, ‘You really should look into this. This is what you love and do very well.’ At the time, I was dating my husband, Michael. I would visit the downtown area he lived in, which was Covington, Georgia. When I scrolled down to the bottom of the job posting and saw it was for Covington, I couldn’t help but laugh. Needless to say, I told the Covington Chamber president during the interview, ‘You might as well hire me because I’m moving here anyway. If you don’t, I’ll just haunt you.’ Fast-forward a few years and the Canton position was posted. The rest is now my present and future.
What do you like most about Canton?
Not growing up in Canton, I was worried that I may not fit in or find my place. Boy, was I wrong. I have found the most amazing sense of community here. Canton is one giant melting pot of people, from those who have lived here all their lives, to those of us who now call Canton home.
I get to do what I love every single day. I offer support to small businesses and plan events that bring people to Canton and, in turn, they support the small businesses. What a wonderful circle! One of my greatest joys is standing to the side at a First Friday event and looking out into the incredible crowd and thinking: I had a small part in making this happen. I never tire of it, and I never take for granted the amazing people who surround me and lift me up each day.
Describe a memorable work experience.
In the spring of 2004, I met with the doctors and nurses of the Cancer Center of East Alabama Medical Center. I asked what they did for Breast Cancer Awareness month. The answer was nothing right now … what do you have in mind? After a few conversations, and the need I felt to give back after my own breast cancer journey, the Think Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Walk was born! After the first walk, a foundation was created to assist the underserved and underinsured residents of Lee County with their mammograms. The walk and foundation are still in place today. This year celebrates the 18th year of the Think Pink walk in Lee County and countless mammograms offered. (The Think Pink walk is back in Canton, as well, this year, Oct. 1 in Cannon Park.)
What projects are you excited about?
I’m very excited about the growth downtown Canton is experiencing. Public art is a hot ticket right now. We have two new murals and more art coming; plus, we are looking forward to the opening of The Holler (next door neighbor to Menagerie on Main), the new History Cherokee Museum, the completion of the Archer Street parking deck, the future of the Jones Mercantile building as a mixed-use development, as well as the former Audio Intersection building, and — as always — the fun and growth at The Mill on Etowah. You’ll begin to see more construction for downtown living soon, another hot ticket for downtowns. After all, who wouldn’t want to live in the #coolestsmalltowninamerica?
What are your goals?
My goal is to continue to grow personally and professionally, but to slow down long enough to take each moment as it comes and never take it for granted. I’ve had two major health scares. It’s taught me that you don’t get a second chance or a do-over. We all need to make it count the first time.
A business networking party! SCHMOOZE \’shmüz\ (verb): to converse casually, especially for social and business connections PALOOZA \’pa•lü•zah\ (noun): a large scale party!
Located at:
Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Pkwy., Woodstock (Exit 9, I-575)
Thursday, Aug. 11 4 - 7 p.m.
Free Admission! Networking
Exhibitors
A Taste of Cherokee Giveaways & Door Prizes
Open to the Public! Presented by:
Describe your family and hobbies.
I live in Canton with my husband, Michael. We have five amazing kids: two sons, a daughter, a son-in-love and a daughter-in-love. They have given us the gift of four beautiful grandchildren. My hobbies are spending time with family and friends, baking, traveling and my newfound obsession of crocheting.
www.CherokeeChamber.com 770-345-0400 Meagan@CherokeeChamber.com AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Enhancing Canton’s Economic Vitality BY LAUREN JOHNSON
All great cities dedicate time and resources toward increasing economic strength, so it is no surprise to find a tenet dedicated to regional economic growth in Canton’s Roadmap for Success. But, what exactly does working to advance regional economic success mean?
Utilizing existing business strengths in industry, health care and an entrepreneurial spirit, Canton seeks to expand its economic footprint. Diverse and innovative business growth will support jobs, attract investment and create tourism opportunities.
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The key component of this tenet centers on development and investment in the city: creating jobs, attracting investors and creating tourism opportunities. These results ultimately serve the larger community, not just those within Canton’s city limits. Advancing regional economic success depends on all of the Roadmap tenets. An important step forward was taken in 2021 when Canton’s leadership requested a new position: manager of economic development and tourism. Angie Busby joined Team Canton in that role, and is working to define what tourism means here. One major initiative under Busby is creating a product to market Canton as a destination, which requires the designing and building of a destination-branded website to share Canton’s history, as well as its future. Additionally, with the creation of the Canton Cultural Arts Commission (CCAC), economic goals are being met through vibrant public arts projects that create a sense of community and place. The CCAC has many projects in the pipeline, and is overseeing a new, citywide Arts Master Plan, due to be completed in 2023. (Turn to Page 10 to get to know the artist who created Canton’s most recent mural on Lee Street.) “Capturing the synergy between culture and commerce is a top economic driver, not just in Georgia, but nationwide,” said City Councilor Brooke Schmidt, who has taken an active role promoting public art and tourism in Canton since 2020. “Businesses, residents and visitors are drawn to a city where arts and culture are known to be an essential element of life.” In addition to public art placemaking, the city recently applied for an Appalachian Regional Commission grant for a connector bridge allowing access from its park trail system over the Etowah River to The Mill on Etowah, an award-winning, mixed-use development that sits along the river. This connection will allow walkability from Canton’s parks to the downtown district, and will promote the Etowah River as a destination. Building on connectivity to
Roadmap for Success drive the economy, the city also has hired a firm to come up with plans to create a more pedestrian-friendly West Main Street, to better join The Mill on Etowah and the Railroad Street area to the downtown district, boosting visitors to each. Of course, the foundation of all economic drivers is attracting industry to our area. Offering companies a location that is attractive to potential employees when it comes to livability is key. Canton works closely alongside the Cherokee Office of Economic Development to attract international, light industrial businesses. Canton recently partnered with COED to secure a technology park of more than 40 acres off Bluffs Parkway, while Canton Corporate Park already is underway off Knox Bridge Highway. “Economic development is all about building partnerships — an area where the city of Canton excels. From the up-and-coming Canton Corporate Park to mixed-use projects like The Mill on Etowah, our team at the Cherokee Office of Economic Development is proud to work alongside the city in developing and promoting high quality projects like these that keep talent local, diversify the tax base and create a premier destination for companies looking to locate or expand in Cherokee By Choice [a strategic plan that guides the county’s economic development efforts],” COED President Misti Martin said. “Creating a community our residents are proud to work in and to call home is the ultimate goal,” Busby said. “The economic vitality of the city of Canton is dependent on our leadership, businesses and residents to help navigate the course to success.”
Lauren Johnson is the marketing and communications specialist for the city of Canton.
COUNCILOR SPOTLIGHT Brooke Schmidt is a city councilor for Ward 3.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Angie Busby is Canton’s manager of economic development and tourism.
“ ... the foundation
of all economic drivers is attracting industry to our area. ” AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Local News
SmileUp! Happy Garden Unveiled
Mural design challenge winner Savanna Castle, 11, of Creekland Middle School and Girl Scout Troop #18281, with her parents next to her design. Photo courtesy of SmileUp! volunteers.
On June 24, the SmileUp! Happy Garden ribbon cutting was held at the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA in Canton. With assistance from community organizations, SmileUp! Charitable Foundation’s young volunteers redesigned the garden. The redesign focused on creating a low maintenance container, herb and rock garden, while highlighting the passion and creativity of local youth. Savanna Castle of Creekland Middle School and Talley Young of R.M. Moore Elementary School won the mural design challenge for the “Kindness is All Around” and “Shine Like the Sun, Grow Like a Flower” murals.
Canton Rotary Club Celebrates the 2021-22 Year, New President
The Rotary Club of Canton recently celebrated its past year of accomplishments and the passing of the gavel to its new president at its Changing of the Guard dinner, during which the club thanked outgoing officers for their service, and installed new officers. The club, which is Cherokee County’s oldest civic club, offers members the opportunity to attend weekly meetings to learn more about their community, participate in service projects and enjoy networking and fellowship. Greg Elder, MUST Ministries’ president of client services, served as the 2021-22 club president. He set a club membership growth goal of 15 new members, which was exceeded with the addition of 22 new members.
Nicole Lawson, northwest regional director for United Way of Greater Atlanta, takes the oath of office to serve as president of the Rotary Club of Canton. 22
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
The club’s new president, Nicole Lawson, northwest regional director for United Way of Greater Atlanta, will be joined in leadership by President-elect Francisco Javier Lozano of Arylessence Inc.; Treasurer Marcie Smith and Secretary Lori Flink, CEO of Allegro Business Products. A highlight among the club’s service projects was the Executive Director of The Children’s Haven, Marcie Smith, is journal buddy project with the Rotary Club of Canton’s 2022Hasty Elementary. The club 23 treasurer and the winner of donated funds for more than the Rotarian of the Year Award. 900 student journals, and club members volunteered to serve as “buddies” to listen to and encourage the students. The club earned top honors for its service, including the Gold Club Award for overall success and district-level Guardian of Ethics and Public Image awards. The Rotarian of the Year Award, also known as the Coxe Award, was presented to Marcie Smith, executive director of The Children’s Haven. The club meets at noon on Tuesdays at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. For more information, visit www.therotaryclubofcantonga. org or www.facebook.com/rotarycantonga.
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The 104-acre rescue and rehabilitation farm is in Canton.
A Place of Hope and Healing BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Casey Montana has a calling on her life: to save as many horses and donkeys from the slaughter pipeline as possible. “We can’t save them all,” Casey said, “but we can change the lives of the few we do.” The mission at WarAngel Farms Rescue and Rehabilitation is to be good stewards of God’s animals here on earth by rescuing, rehabilitating
Mr. Bojangles, the inspiration for WarAngel Farms.
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and finding forever homes for the ones that come into its care. The organization brings hope to animals that have no hope and helps those that have gone through unimaginable circumstances. Even though the main focus is on rescuing horses and donkeys, animals of all kinds, including goats, reptiles, alpacas and cows, are welcome on WarAngel’s 104-acre farm and are available for sponsorship. WarAngel’s founder, Casey Montana, grew up on this family farm at 199 WarAngel Farms Way in Canton. To understand how WarAngel began, it helps to learn a bit about the slaughter industry. Horse (and donkey) slaughter is illegal in the United States, so horses are shipped to Mexico and Canada, where there are very few regulations. Horses of every age and type are brought to auctions. Killbuyers purchase any horse that goes for below meat price then take their purchases to a holding pen. This is where the WarAngel staff members step in and try to buy (save) as many animals as they can before the ship dates to Mexico or Canada.
Life for animals in these lots is inhumane. They are thrown into a pen with hundreds of horses, fighting for their food and their life. They get beat up and sick. It’s especially hard on the old ones that never should have been taken to the auctions in the first place. They run on so much adrenaline trying to survive, and when they finally arrive at WarAngel Farms and feel safe, their body often can’t hold on any longer. “We try to save every horse/donkey we bail from the pens, but we also believe in dignity in death and the last act of kindness, if needed,” Casey said. Knowing these slaughter pens exist inspired Casey to rescue her first horse, Mr. Bojangles, in 2016. He was exhausted and extremely sick from his time in the pens, and three months to the day, his battle to survive ended. Casey was heartbroken, and with her mom Sandy’s blessing, she opened up the family farm to serve others by starting a petting zoo. “After working hard for a few years to grow and improve the farm to receive more rescued animals, WarAngel Farms Rescue and Rehabilitation was officially launched as a nonprofit in 2020,” Casey said. “My mom and I work together to run the rescue, along with the help of many wonderful volunteers.” Bethany Thomas has been visiting WarAngel Farms for eight years. “I can’t imagine my life without this family and their animals in my life,” she said. “The minute I drive onto the property, a quiet sense of peace comes over me, and worries of the day disappear. During these eight years of friendship, their family farm has turned into a nonprofit rescue. They have given me the opportunity to participate in saving abused or neglected horses and donkeys from slaughter. There is no way to explain the joy that comes in knowing you are helping save lives.” If you would like to find out more about WarAngel Farms, schedule a themed photo shoot or ladies’ night out, attend artsy animal camp, take a private tour or sign up for the Run Your Bundts Off ! 5K on Oct. 22 at Etowah River Park (runsignup.com/bundtscanton). To donate and learn more, visit warangelfarms. com, call 770-317-8476 or email rescue@ warangelfarms.com. The organization is 100% volunteer-run, meaning all donations go directly to saving animals.
Willie and Curtis, above left, are at home on the WarAngel farm. Casey Montana, bottom right, with her mom Sandy and Jubilee and Lulu.
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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Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 10.
Please specify Around Canton.
Gram Schroeder
Age 5 on Aug. 2 Our sweet boy is heading to kindergarten. We know he will thrive. Grateful parents, Pete and Corinne, and big sister, Alice
Alice Schroeder
Derek
Happy 13th birthday to our amazing son, DJ! Praise God for blessing us with you! Have an awesome football season! Love, Mom and Dad
Happy 21st birthday! We are so proud and love you so much. Daddy, Mommy, Abygail, London and Hugo
Kiersten
Nicole “Diva” G.
Happy 10th birthday, Kiersten! Double digits on July 26! You are smart, beautiful, loving and kind! We love you to the moon and back!
Ashley Severson
Graduated from Cherokee High School. We are proud of you, as your parents would be also. They are always with you in spirit. We love you! Temeishie, Emery and Ea’mon. 26
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Tiani Johnson
Age 7 on June 1 Alice has blossomed this year, excelling at school, dance and gymnastics. We are excited about the year ahead. Grateful parents, Pete and Corinne, and little brother, Gram
Happy birthday, sis! May you have a beautiful new year and be blessed abundantly! Thank you for your friendship and love. Love, Natalie
Emery Tuff
Graduated within three years from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, with a bachelor’s in kinesiology, magna cum laude. I’m proud of you and wish you continued blessings and success in all you do. I love you x infinity, Mom
Mark Jr. and Mckenzie
Happy birthday to our son and first granddaughter, both born on Aug. 27. Love you both, Mommy, Daddy, Memaw and Papaw
Don't Ignore These Health Symptoms BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC
Women often accept minor gynecological or urinary symptoms as a normal part of being a woman, but those minor symptoms may be indicative of a more serious condition. It is important to take charge of one’s health, stay up to date on annual visits, and make sure to speak with a doctor about any concerns, no matter how minor they may be. By recognizing and disclosing these symptoms early, doctors may be able to diagnose and treat underlying pelvic or urinary conditions. Symptoms to discuss with your doctor include:
Urinary incontinence. Leaking urine is commonly seen in women who have had multiple pregnancies, or who are advancing in the aging process. However, urinary incontinence is not something a woman should take lightly. Leaking any amount of urine while laughing, sneezing, coughing or exercising can be a sign of several urinary conditions, including bladder prolapse. Don’t wait until an annual exam to bring this to your doctor’s attention. There are treatments and lifestyle changes you can make to minimize the symptoms of incontinence.
Unexplained bleeding. Bleeding that is not associated with a monthly cycle should immediately be brought to a doctor’s attention. While one shouldn’t stress about the worst-case scenario, possible conditions that could cause bleeding range from fibroids and cysts to ectopic pregnancies, anemia or cancer.
Pelvic pain. Any pelvic pain, whether it is during intercourse or any other time, should be mentioned to a doctor. There could be underlying causes that may need to be examined further and/or treated, such as a sexually transmitted disease, endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Any changes that seem out of the ordinary. A change
in discharge, itching, visible bumps or bulges, or burning while urinating are reasons to call your gynecologist immediately. These unpleasant symptoms may be signs of vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections or other vaginal conditions that require a doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the symptoms mentioned, be sure to also share with your doctor any symptoms that are not typical for you. Be in tune with your body. And while these issues sometimes can be hard to discuss, remember, your doctor has probably heard it all. The sooner you have a diagnosis, the sooner treatment can begin.
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Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has six OB-GYNs and five midlevel providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.
*Qualification is based on an assessment of individual creditworthiness and our underwriting standards. For complete terms and conditions, visit www.CUofGA.org/promo. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Meet The Dean Team! Joshua’s Team Members Work to Create an Experience That Matters
I
n his quest to continue offering excellent customer service, Joshua Dean has been a recruiter, of sorts. He has assembled The Dean Team: a staff of three that works with him to, as he says “create experiences that matter by helping people build generational wealth through homeownership.” That’s Joshua’s “why,” which explains what drives him as a loan officer with Homeowners Financial Group in Canton. The “how” starts by meeting his team members. “By building a strong team, I’ve added leverage, so I can continue to serve people at a really high level,” he said. “My reviews reflect what a great team I have.”
225 Reformation Parkway Suite 200, Canton https://card.get-card.com/joshua-dean/ 470-863-7071 direct 470-303-0087 cell SPONSORED CONTENT 28
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Joshua Dean Joshua is the team’s leader. When you read his bio, it is easy to understand his passion for helping people. Joshua has degrees in education and theology, along with mortgage and insurance experience. “I believe in doing the right thing, and treating people with dignity and value,” he said. “My perspective comes from being a former pastor, and loving people well.” Joshua moved his family to Cherokee County from Buffalo, New York, six years ago. Joshua and Tina have been married 18 years, and have three children: Judah, 10, Grantly, 9, and Gracie, 6. He played D-1 college basketball and earned two degrees: a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Buffalo and a master’s in theological studies from Masters International University of Divinity. His goal is to make the homebuying process a positive, memorable experience, one that clients look back on with fond memories.
Colleen Fallon Colleen is a licensed mortgage professional assistant and does the initial review of income, assets and credit, to ensure clients can move forward with the purchase or refinance process. The Kennesaw State University graduate was born in Chicago, but has lived in Atlanta most of her life. Colleen earned a history degree at KSU, started in the mortgage business in 2002 and worked her way from receptionist to loan processor. She has a mortgage loan originator license, sales experience, and uses her pre-underwriting skills to work though unique situations on the front end of transactions, making the process more seamless for the clients. “My prayers were answered when I met Joshua, Beth and Tara! It almost didn’t happen, as I had signed on with another company before I had my initial meeting with Joshua. Words can’t describe how happy I am that I made the decision to join The Dean Team,” Colleen said. Colleen’s fur baby is a 7-year-old Australian shepherd. She has many friends in the community whom she considers family (in addition to her father and three brothers). “Without them, I don’t think I’d have this amazing job and life that I love,” she said.
Accolades PHOTOS BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS “We want the experience to matter so much. It’s such a huge part of people’s lives; I want them to see it as a significant experience. I am thankful that people allow us to be a part of their story,” Joshua said.
• Named to the Presidents Club at Homeowners Financial Group for the second consecutive year. • Listed in the Scotsman Guide as one of the nation’s Top Originators. According to the Guide, “the longevity and comprehensive scope of this list makes it the most respected ranking and coveted achievement in mortgage lending.” • Recognized in the Top 1% Mortgage Originators in America. • Listed in Mortgage Executive Magazine’s ranking of the Top 1% Mortgage Originators in America 2021, also published in April 2022.
It starts with a strategy call with each client. That’s when the teamwork kicks in.
Tara Henry
Bethany Pitts
As the client coordinator, Tara works directly with the underwriter and client to get loans approved, once Colleen makes sure they qualify.
As the director of client experience, Bethany helps oversee the strategy, planning and execution of the team’s overall client experience goals.
The Alpharetta native met her husband, Jason, while living in Brookhaven, and they decided to move north of Atlanta. They have two children, Kenneth, 2, and Hunter, 9 months, along with three “crazy” dogs. Tara learned she had an aptitude for processing because of her attention to detail, ability to maintain timelines and manage many moving parts on multiple files, and her capacity to retain and apply extensive knowledge of agency guidelines. Her experience in pre-underwriting files from the beginning of the process gives clients a head start and prevents unforeseen issues. “I came to Homeowners, after almost six years with another company, for the opportunity to grow my career,” Tara said. “I met Joshua when I was given two extremely difficult files to close for him. He and I clicked and worked extremely well together from the beginning. From there, our partnership was born.” Tara gets clients to the finish line, and said she is proud of the team’s growth and the number of lives they are able to touch.
The Ohio native moved to Roswell in high school. After graduating from the University of Kentucky, she returned to Roswell and moved to Cherokee County in 2003, where she and her husband bought their first home. In her first job with an Atlanta law firm, Bethany worked in the bankruptcy division, representing banks and mortgage companies nationwide. She eventually became a manager of the Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Florida litigation team. “My time at the firm, coupled with various positions held, has afforded me a vast amount of relevant understanding and experience, which has proven to be beneficial in my current role,” she said. “My focus is on our clients, agents and potential clients and agents. My goal is to deliver a seamless experience for them on their journey through the mortgage process at several key stages and touchpoints. Getting out in Cherokee County and meeting people is one of my favorite parts of my job!” Bethany and her husband, Sean, live in Canton, with their three boys and a dog, Boone. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and watching her boys play sports. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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•
Kitchens come first. Whether it’s a mini makeover or a full gut, kitchens are at the top of many homeowners’ lists. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it offers the best return on investment among home improvement projects.
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Because we are traveling again and visiting friends and family, smaller spaces, such as guest bathrooms and guest bedrooms, as well as powder rooms and laundry rooms, are on many lists.
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Updating or creating a home office is not quite as popular as it was a couple of years ago. Most homeowners already have completed this project, or are going back into the office.
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Open floor plans aren’t going away. Homeowners still are knocking down walls to open up their space. Better sight lines, increased functionality and easy entertaining are some of the many reasons to remove a wall or two.
Warning: Only a licensed and experienced contractor, architect or structural engineer can determine if a wall within your house safely can be taken down. Parts of the wall may need to be opened up to determine whether the wall can be removed. Expect additional costs if the wall is load-bearing, as supports (beams, pillars) must be added.
To-Do List Trends How to Prioritize Updating Your Home BY ELISABETH STUBBS
Have you recently purchased a home that wasn’t ideal — you were glad to get it! — but need to make some changes to make it more your style? Or, have you decided to stay put and finally make some updates, to take advantage of the equity you have in your home? If your to-do list is long, and you’re wondering where to start, check out these trends reported by Houzz and Thumbtack.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors & More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
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Smaller projects, such as TV mounting, ceiling fan installation and replacing light fixtures, are quick jobs to complete. Color changes, such as interior painting and wallpaper removal or installation, also commonly are found on to-do lists. If you’re short on time, these projects might need to move to the top of your list.
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Master bath remodeling and tile installation are perennially popular on project lists. Perhaps you have a leak, or you want a bigger shower. Expect this project to be pricey, but worth it.
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Popular exterior projects include landscaping, tree trimming, fence and gate installations, exterior painting, concrete installations, deck or porch remodeling, gardening, play equipment construction, gazebo installations and sod installations. These projects can enhance curb appeal and raise the value of your home. Many people prioritize interior over exterior updates, and others, vice versa. Whatever your preference, consider that some exterior projects are best completed seasonally.
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New floors are a part of almost every interior update. You might be adding family-friendly luxury vinyl planks to your home, or soft, stain-resistant carpet to your bedrooms. If it finally is time to refinish your beat-up hardwoods, today’s floors are functional and fabulous.
Pro tip: If you’re considering removing textured ceilings, or taking on another messy project, the time to do it is before you paint and/or change out flooring.
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Managing Growth, Maintaining Infrastructure BY HARRY JOHNSTON
With the end of this election cycle in sight, it’s a great time to look ahead and consider how to keep Cherokee County great! The goals don’t change, but we’re always looking for better ways to achieve them. GOAL 1: Manage and control growth to protect quality of life. Cherokee is an exceptionally desirable place to live. People want to move here. That’s good, but too much growth will destroy that desirability. Through conservative planning and zoning, we’ve brought the countywide population growth down to about 2% per year. And, we’re working better with our cities to coordinate growth management. An update to the county’s Comprehensive Plan, done every five years, begins this year. It’s an opportunity to refine ways to keep our growth moderate. It may be our last good chance to bring planned densities down in some of our densest areas across south Cherokee, and to hold the line elsewhere. We have the opportunity to improve commercial development standards to give unincorporated commercial centers a higher-quality look and feel. We can finalize a growth boundary agreement with Holly Springs, and more fully coordinate our development planning with all the cities. GOAL 2: Keep infrastructure and services up with the growth. Roads are always top of the list here. The state has stepped up with big help on Highway 20, and is coming soon on Bells Ferry Road. We need to lock down their eventual help on Highway 140, and complete county-sponsored interim improvements there. We need some new roads, and existing county roads need ongoing expansion. The Justice Center is bursting at the seams; we’ve got to expand it. Also, we’ve got to keep expanding our public safety facilities and staffing. Our fire department has made amazing
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progress since the all-volunteer days just 22 years ago, but some of the old stations need modernization or replacement with professional, quality facilities. Our sheriff ’s office is one of the nation’s finest, but the patrol staffing hasn’t kept up with population growth. To catch up, we have to make their salaries very competitive. It’s not easy, with other jurisdictions working to do the same. We just took a big step and brought our police salaries near the top in the region. That included accelerating next year’s cost-of-living raise to this year, so we won’t stay at the top for long. But, it should help fill persistent vacancies. Then we’ll need to add new positions. GOAL 3: Keep taxes lowest in the region and in Georgia. Recent inflation in salaries and materials has hit the county budget hard. And, with lower growth, we can’t divert growth revenues to cover inflation. But, I believe we will get through the current tax-rate-setting cycle with our low-tax position intact versus other counties. Almost every county in Georgia has a SPLOST. It’s critical that we get the current county SPLOST renewed this fall for another six years. It pays for substantially all local road work, new and refurbished county buildings, parks, and even fire trucks and police vehicles. Without it, our property taxes would have to be significantly higher. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts. Please email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.
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Hazardous Houseplants: Are Your Pets at Risk? BY JENNIFER RUSCILLI
When we bring home new houseplants, we don’t typically think of them as hazardous plants. Our interests are more centered around the plant’s leaves, blooms or berries. We wouldn’t think of eating any of these plants, but our pets might. They like to chew, gnaw, nibble, smell, dig and taste. Therefore, it’s important that we are familiar with hazardous plants. There are too many plants that possess toxins — and may have an adverse effect on our pets if ingested — to mention in this article, but I am focusing on a few plants you may have around the house, along with their toxic classes. Toxicity depends on the amount of a plant that’s been eaten. According to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, the Department of Urban Plant Pathology and Center for Urban Agriculture, plant toxicities can be categorized in four classes:
1. Major toxicity. May result in serious illness or death if
ingested.
2. Minor toxicity. May result in vomiting or diarrhea if
ingested.
3. Oxalates. Contains juice or sap with oxalate crystals that can irritate the skin, mouth or throat, and cause swelling, difficulty breathing, pain or an upset stomach. 4. Dermatitis. Contact with thorns or sap may result in a skin rash. Adverse effects can vary from severe to mild, with even common plants causing great distress. Does this mean you can’t have a potentially toxic plant? On the contrary, just familiarize yourself with the plants mentioned below to recognize symptoms if a hazardous situation occurs, and keep these plants out of your pet’s reach.
Indoor Plants
• Caladium (Caladium bicolor). All parts – toxic class 3 and 4. • Dumbcane (Dieffenbachia seguine). Leaves – toxic class 3. • Elephant ear (Colocasia). All parts – toxic class 3 and 4. • Peace lily (Spathiphyllum). Leaves can cause excessive drooling, vomiting – toxic class 3. • Philodendron (Monstera deliciosa). All parts – toxic class 3. • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum). All parts – toxic class 3. • Schefflera (Schefflera actinophylla). All parts – toxic class 3.
This article isn’t intended to be a replacement for any medical advice; its purpose is to bring more awareness about the plants in your home and the ones you are considering the next time you visit your favorite nursery or plant store. Most important, if you ever suspect your pet isn’t acting normal or their behavior is odd, contact your veterinary doctor immediately. (It’s a good idea to add their phone number to your favorites.) In future articles, we will look at other types of plants — holiday, landscape and ornamental — along with lawn practices that may be hazardous to your pets.
Dig Deeper:
• www.extension.uga.edu/county-offices/cherokee/contact-us.html • https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/find_a_plant • www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-andnon-toxic-plants
Jennifer Ruscilli is a Cherokee County Master Gardener who loves gardening, wildlife and pets. She also has previous experience as a veterinary associate.
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Exploring Olde Rope Mill Park BY THE WANDERER
The Little River originates along the western border of Cherokee County and winds its way through the southern half of the county. Along the way, Mills Creek and Rubes Creek empty into it. In the early 1840s, a small settlement that included a cotton mill and a grist mill was erected along the river’s banks, because early American settlers recognized the sheer volume and power of the water coursing through it. By the time of the 1900 U.S. Census, the mill almost certainly was the largest employer in Woodstock, having 15 of the 276 residents on its rolls. Along the hillside, next to the river, was a large warehouse where bales of cotton were stored before being dropped into a chute that began the process of turning the cotton into rope. While the official name of the enterprise was the Cherokee Cotton Mill, it quickly came to be known to the locals as Rope Mill. Farther up the hillside was housing for some of the employees, and at the bottom, alongside the river, was the main building, said to be nearly 200 feet long. If you take Exit 9 off I-575 and forgo the outlet mall by heading in the opposite direction, you’ll find Olde Rope Mill Park. Trust me, it’s worth it. Water power here didn’t quickly become obsolete by the advent of electric power, thanks in part to improvements made over the years, most significantly a dam built in 1925 to increase water 38
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
A scene from Olde Rope Mill Park. Photo by Ariosta Widner.
power through the mill raceway to the turbine in the powerhouse. In fact, when fuel was scarce during World War II, low-cost water power gave the Cherokee Cotton Mill a competitive advantage, and it landed large contracts for making tent rope for the military. But, the mill was situated in the floodplain of the new Allatoona Lake that was being built immediately after the war, so the land was bought up by the government, and the buildings were dismantled. On Sept. 30, 1949, the mill closed. However, Rope Mill’s story doesn’t end there. Grab your hiking boots or your mountain bike, and go to Olde Rope Mill Park. It isn’t just historic; it’s beautiful. The trails are cherished by mountain bikers, as the paths are stacked loops that allow bikers to vary their route to achieve the desired mileage and level of difficulty they are seeking. By rule, bikers have the right of way
here, but hikers like me are entirely welcome, provided they walk in the opposite direction of the cyclists and yield to them on the trails. It’s all well-marked and easy to do. If you have little ones who may be up for only a mile or so, the paths by Little River are wide and paved on one side, and a little exploring allows you to see the mill raceway and several sluice gates, the remains of the dam and the foundations of various buildings. • https://bit.ly/39sR4AW • https://bit.ly/3b61yGN • https://bit.ly/3xV2BTc • https://bit.ly/3aZ1IzL • https://bit.ly/3xZeQhE The Wanderer has been a resident of Cherokee County for nearly 20 years, and constantly is learning about his community on daily walks, which totaled a little more than 1,800 miles in 2021. Send questions or comments to wanderingga@gmail.com.
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What’s Happening at Your Library?
BY JOHN RODGERS
Summer learning has ended and students are headed back to school. You might not think the public library belongs on the list of places to continue visiting yearround, but all of the fun things people enjoyed at the library this summer, including free all-ages events, also are available in fall, winter and spring. From computer access and state park passes to sewing machines and 3D printing, Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) is here even after summer has passed. What was your favorite program at the library in June and July? The game nights? The special storytimes? All of these events return to the library’s programming calendar for August. Enjoy music and movies, adult art night, a paper airplane tournament, bingo for books, toddler sensory programs, or help your child build confidence speaking by reading to Zoey the Reading Dog. For students who anticipate doing a bunch of homework this school year, printing documents at the library has never been easier. Anyone with a library card can print from anywhere by visiting sequoyahregionallibrary.org (on a personal computer or mobile device), logging in with a library card number and uploading documents to the mobile printing webpage. Next, simply visit any SRLS library to print them out. No logging into a library computer required! Speaking of technology, most people are aware the library has e-books and audiobooks that can be checked out to their e-reader or mobile device, and the list of SRLS e-library services expands far beyond that. Library cardholders can use Ancestry to piece together their family tree, take free and easy courses to learn more than 70 languages with Mango, or prepare for a geography project with the comprehensive country-by-country database: AtoZ World Culture. Teenagers can even find practice driving tests, and those looking to save money on magazine subscriptions can use Flipster to read the latest issues of more than 20 magazines — including Southern Living, National Geographic and Us Weekly — from the comfort of their own device. Don’t forget, Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hot spots can be checked out from the library as well. From July 2021 through June 2022, our awesome community checked out more than 1 million items from SRLS libraries in Cherokee, Pickens and Gilmer counties. Sounds like this whole public library idea is really catching on. Here’s to 1 million more this year!
Laurel Canyon gardeners visit R.T. Jones Memorial Library to guide visitors in the step-by-step creation of butterfly gardens.
UPCOMING EVENTS Aug. 8
The Adult Eclectics Book Club is meeting to discuss “The Last Child” by John Hart, 6-7:30 p.m., in the community room at R.T. Jones Memorial Library in Canton. Register online.
Aug. 10, 17, 24
Help your child build confidence by scheduling a 15-minute appointment to read to Zoey the Reading Dog, 4:30-5:30p.m., at Rose Creek Public Library. Register online.
Aug. 11
Stop by this month’s Lego Lab, 4:30-6 p.m., at Woodstock Public Library. Legos are provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Registration is not required.
Aug. 17
Stop by R.T. Jones Memorial Library for Toddler Sensory Snack and Play, 10:30-11:30 a.m., to engage in a bugthemed adventure. Registration is not required. Children must be accompanied at all times.
Aug. 23
All ages are welcome to participate in the Paper Airplane Folding Tournament from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Hickory Flat Public Library. Registration is not required.
Aug. 25
Join Storytime in the Park, 10:30-11:30 p.m. at J.B. Owens Park in Canton. For ages 0-4, storytime will include rhymes and dancing. Bring a blanket to sit on. Registration is not required.
Aug. 27 John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.
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AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Break out of the book club box and join the Themed Adult Book Club to discuss your book at Woodstock Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. For a copy of discussion questions, call 770-926-5859. Ages 17 and older are encouraged. Register online.
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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3 Ways to
The good news is, every effort made to support a child’s education makes a direct impact in their future. Read on for some wonderful ways to get involved, and be sure to check out justserve.org; new opportunities are added weekly.
1.
SimpleNeeds GA (https://bit.ly/3xPfwoo) works hard to fill in the cracks and provide specific goods families might not receive elsewhere. It has two fabulous programs for students: Uniforms for Excellence and Shoe Them Love. General school supplies are welcome as well. Family Kickstart Georgia (https://bit.ly/3NpC2d2) supports the family of each student by providing resources and mentoring for youth wellness, job readiness and English as a second language instruction for parents. You can become a mentor or tutor and be an important part of students’ lives. Georgia HOPE (https://bit.ly/3a2vyDk) is a communitybased provider of mental health, substance abuse and family preservation services. Supplies are needed for foster teens, housed temporarily in hotels until more permanent arrangements can be made. Donate items to help keep them in school and keep their lives as stable as possible.
2. This
Back-to-School Season BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY
It’s an exciting time of year for students. School is back in session, and that means new classes, new challenges and new opportunities. I still remember the look of pristine, unopened notebooks — and the smell of new crayons. It just felt like exciting new things were right around the corner. Unfortunately, for many youth in our community, the return to school is not exciting or positive. It can be nearly impossible to focus on learning when you are worried about where your next meal will come from or how you will get the school supplies you need.
3.
Be sure to check out these great projects and more on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe North Georgia public Facebook group. You truly can make an impact with simple acts of service!
Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprof it organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprof it or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve! Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.
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AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services. There are a lot of small dogs like this one at the shelter. This dog’s name is Molly. She is a 7-year-old terrier. She came to the shelter as a stray and has a lot of love and positive energy in her. Molly would be a perfect family dog who would love everyone and just have a fun time with them.
I interviewed Global Conservation Corps (GCC) founder and Executive Director Matt Lindenberg about what he does and his new movie, “Rhino Man.” This interview is the last of three parts that have been published over the summer. GCC (www. globalconservationcorps. org) is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta that bridges the gap between community and wildlife.
Rob with Matt Lindenberg of Global Conservation Corps.
What do you want people to know about GCC?
It is about investing in people to save wildlife. If we can’t secure the future of the local communities living around wildlife, there will be no wildlife. We must create a mutually beneficial relationship between wildlife and the people.
How can someone work for GCC? This cat’s name is Idgie. She is 15 years old and was an owner surrender. She has been in the shelter a very long time, and she just needs a home to be loved and live out her life.
Our approach is to bring skilled people into the classrooms in our communities to educate and provide skill development and opportunity creation for people living alongside wildlife. Families can come to South Africa and be educated in all we do.
How can the community help?
It starts with educational awareness. Become educated on the problems involved in protecting wildlife. Share our posts on Instagram and social media. We do events in Atlanta, so join us there and help with events. If you have any connections that do corporate matching or want to pay the salary of a South African ranger guarding rhinos against poachers, let me know.
Is there still a possibility that rhinos will become extinct?
Yes, unfortunately. At this rate of poaching, rhinos will be extinct within 10 years. Everyone needs to come together to solve the problem. A rhino horn is worth about $100,000.
What animal is in the most danger?
Rhinos are super endangered. Also, there are only about 7,000 cheetahs and 10,000 lions in the wild.
What is the most important way to protect wildlife?
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
Everyone has a part to play. It doesn’t need to be rhinos in Africa. It could be several species of darters (very small fish) or sea turtles in Georgia. Just do something. “Rhino Man” will be premiering at one of the big film festivals later this year. Watching the film will provide a lot of answers and inspiration.
How can people get in touch with you?
Follow us on Instagram and look at our website. We also have a very cool newsletter, with stories from the field. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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EVERYDAY
On April 12, 2-year-old Caspian Moore was at his day care in Canton, celebrating Easter, when he fell and hit his head. “I immediately brought him home where he slept most the day,” said his mom, Helen. “When he woke up, he began vomiting, so my fiance, Ethan, quickly took him to urgent care, suspecting he could have a concussion. I was working, so I met them there. Looking back, Caspian had been randomly falling frequently; standing one moment and on the ground the next. He also didn’t have much of an appetite lately, and would frequently vomit for no reason. When I shared this information with the urgent care doctor, he directed us to WellStar Kennestone Hospital for a CT scan.” While at Kennestone, Caspian’s CT scan revealed a tumor in the back of his brain. “Everything happened so fast. We were immediately transported to Children’s Scottish Rite Hospital Healthcare of Atlanta, where we waited for more information. The following day, an MRI revealed a tumor and fluid on his skull, requiring immediate
Aggressive chemo followed Caspian's surgery. 44
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Helen and her fiance, Ethan, with Caspian.
surgery to insert a drain to remove the fluid from his brain. It was so hard keeping him completely still during this time. Once the fluid was removed, they performed surgery to remove his tumor on Friday, April 15. Surgeons felt confident that they removed 100% of his tumor, but aggressive chemo must follow,” Helen said. Caspian was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a cancerous type of brain tumor that develops in the cerebellum, a part of the brain near the bottom of the skull that involves muscle coordination, balance and movement. Medulloblastoma is the most common type of cancerous brain tumor in children. Doctors usually treat kids who have this with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Treatment has improved in recent years, and more kids are making a full recovery. Helen works full time as a server at Taco Mac in Canton. Her work friends have become her family, and have set up a GoFundMe account to help Helen focus on Caspian’s treatment. “Any time Helen spends away from work is time without pay. We want to make sure that paying the bills is the furthest thing from her mind while she and fiance Ethan Melton give all of their focus to helping Caspian
recover and get better,” said Skylar, a co-worker. Today, Caspian remains at Scottish Rite, as he begins his third chemo treatment. “His doctors assure us that his survival rate is high,” Helen said. “Treatments must continue after we leave Scottish Rite, as well as frequent MRIs to ensure his tumor doesn’t return. Since Caspian’s diagnosis, I have not been able to work, and expenses are overwhelming. I would like to thank my family for their love and support, all the wonderful nurses at the pediatric intensive care unit and Aflac at Scottish Rite, my Taco Mac work family, and, most importantly, God for his grace and mercy,” Helen said. Everyday Angels will accept donations for the Moores, or you may donate through GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/6f6b9ee2. Please keep Caspian in your prayers. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal, or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in our community, email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
What the PRO Act Means for Workers
BY CHARLICE BYRD
Cherokee County is on the move. According to the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, our county has tripled in population in the past three decades, attracted good jobs and kept taxes low. But, thanks to the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act being debated in Congress (www.congress.gov/ bill/117th-congress/house-bill/842/text), that could change. The act likely would make businesses and workers easier prey for labor union organizers. Georgia is a right-to-work state. The PRO Act could benefit union bosses over small businesses. One provision would void Georgia’s right-to-work law, according to www.gachamber.com/pro-act-georgia. This law protects workers from being forced to join a union or to pay union dues as a condition of their employment. Many believe this law has been a key ingredient of our local and regional economic success. According to the National Institute for Labor Relations Research, right-to-work states have stronger economic growth and faster private sector job growth than states in which union membership is compulsory. If the PRO Act were to become law, Cherokee workers could lose their right to a secret ballot in union elections. Instead, the PRO Act would mandate a system called card check, in which workers’ preference for, or opposition to, forming a union would be public. It’s not hard to envision a scenario under which this provision could lead to intimidation tactics by overzealous labor organizers, especially when coupled with a separate provision that puts personal worker information into the hands of those same organizers (www.gachamber.com/pro-act-georgia). Many workers in the gig economy, such as ride-share drivers or freelance writers, appreciate the flexibility of jobs that allow them to ratchet their hours up or down depending on their lifestyle. The PRO Act would reclassify them as employees, likely eliminating thousands of these jobs in Georgia alone. Currently, the PRO Act is stalled in the Senate. Cherokee County employers and workers need our U.S. senators to support the interests of job creators and workers by opposing the PRO Act in whatever legislative form it takes. Thank you all for allowing me to represent Georgia House of Representatives District 20. It is an honor to work for you and this great state. If you have any feedback, call 404-557-2218, email charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov or engage on Facebook.
Directed by Ed Palombo August 12, 13, 14 | 19, 20, 21 BIOGRAPHIES 2022 CHECK OUR WEBSITE SHOWS/SHOW DATES (TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
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Adults – $18 | Member Discount – $15 Groups 10 or more - $13 | Senior/Student/Active Military – $15 P l ay i n g at Canton Theatre • 171 E. Main St., Canton, GA
Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives. charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov.
Box Office 770-591-0282 | info@cherokeetheatre.org Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 AROUND CANTON | August 2022
45
College
ESSENTIALS
101
Recent Graduates Offer Advice for New College Students
High school graduates walked across the stage in May and, soon, many will be packing up and heading off to college. It’s common to get butterflies on the first day of school, but moving away from home for the first time can be even more daunting. To put the minds of first-time college students at ease, recent graduates from Cherokee County shared expert advice.
RACHEL MURPHY Rachel, a 2015 graduate of Etowah High School, graduated from Mercer University School of Law in May with her Juris Doctor degree. Rachel recently completed the Georgia Bar Exam and will be working for the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office in Canton.
What were your dorm essentials?
Other than the obvious things like chargers, extension cords, power strips ... stackable storage containers with drawers were a good space saver, especially when having to share a bathroom with little or no drawer space. Also, my first year of college, I had to do all of my laundry in the dorm laundry facility, so having lots of quarters on hand is a must. I did not get an air fryer until I got to law school, and it changed my world! Definitely wish I had one in college. My rice cooker and Crockpot were huge lifesavers. I would mealprep and freeze a lot of meals. I could easily grab one out of the freezer, stick it in the Crockpot for a few hours and have lunch or dinner with little prep work/cleanup.
What are your packing tips?
One thing I tried to do to save space was to consolidate small things within large things. For example, if you have a lot of tennis shoes, you can store socks inside the shoes to save space. Also, if you run out of bags for your clothes, keep the clothes on hangers and place them inside a trash bag. Tie the bag shut by wrapping the garbage ties around the hangers; that way, your clothes are more likely to stay flat. When you get there, you can hang up the hangers and cut away the trash bag. This saves a lot of time when unpacking as well; plus, the hangers provide a good handle when transporting the bags. When packing a car, I recommend using towels or blankets to line your seats and trunk to make sure you aren't scraping your car or damaging the interior.
How can you meet new friends?
Rachel with her parents, Randy and Jodi Murphy. 46
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Get involved as much as you can! Making friends when you first get to college can be hard, especially if you are going to a school where you don’t know anyone. Getting involved in clubs, organizations, campus jobs, school events, etc. helps you meet new people easily. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. A lot of other people may be feeling apprehensive about going to these events alone, so you might meet others in your same position and quickly bond over that small thing.
ANSLEY CARTWRIGHT Ansley graduated from the University of Georgia in May with her master’s degree in public relations. She recently accepted a position as the marketing coordinator at Brown & Brown. In 2019, as a rising college sophomore, she wrote a packing list article for Aroundabout magazines (https://bit.ly/3nowTHQ). Here is her perspective as a graduate: Despite all of the courses you took in high school and the conversations you had with your guidance counselor, it’s hard to feel fully prepared for college. Getting ready to go off to school can be overwhelming, from trying to fit your life into a shoebox-sized dorm room to fitting half of it back in your car to take home when you realize you don’t need everything after all. The last-minute items you shoved in your suitcase will be the ones you use daily and the decorative pillows you splurged on probably will spend the semester on the floor. Through the challenging first weeks, you will learn and grow more than you ever thought possible in such a short period of time.
Don’t forget the necessities.
While picking out the perfect decor may be more fun, you might regret not prioritizing the essentials when you’re stuck in Target with every other freshman, fighting for the last pack of Command strips or offbrand paper towels. Bring an extension cord that can reach from the floor to your lofted bed. Pack more hangers, buy a box of trash bags, and toss in some medicine, because — without a doubt — you will need it. Unless you stay on top of your health, you might just spend your entire first year with the freshman flu. Pack disinfectant wipes, take your vitamins and at least try to get some sleep.
There always will be something you forget.
You won’t realize you forgot to pack an umbrella until it's already raining. Even if you aren’t a STEM student, there will be at least one time you will need a calculator for class, and it will be the day the bookstore is sold out. You won’t think about extra storage until you’re out of room. You might think you will eat in the dining hall for every meal until you see your roommate come home with Easy Mac and a side of microwave popcorn. Bring your favorite snacks. Pack Tupperware to bring dining hall food back to the dorms. Bring a Keurig, enough K-Cups to last you through your first week of exams and to-go cups.
Think out of the box.
With the luxury of Amazon and online shopping, it’s easy to pack your deliveries the way they arrive. But, take items out of their shipping boxes to consolidate space. Pack clothes and bedding in soft bags that can easily squeeze into the extra space boxes can’t. Try to unpack larger items first, and take the elevator up to your dorm and the stairs down. Get there early. The lobby of your dorm will soon look like a line for a ride at Six Flags, but where everyone is carrying furniture. Set up your side of the room before or after your roommate. With tiny dorm rooms, the fewer people trying to unpack at the same time, the better.
Come with an open mind.
The greatest advice is to come to college completely willing to try new things and meet new people. Introduce yourself more often than you might be comfortable with. Start conversations with something other than “Where are you from?” I like to ask people their zodiac sign, because, even if they don’t know it, they probably have an opinion on it they’re going to want to talk about. Visit a club even if it's just for the free food. If someone asks you to go to the dining hall or hang out in their dorm or study together, go. Try to get to know your teaching assistants and professors. Enjoy this time in your life when you are constantly growing. You’re never going to be fully prepared for when your parents leave and you are finally on your own, but you’re going to be able to handle whatever comes next.
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Advice From Top Teachers BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
As we begin the new school year, we’re offering you some expert advice — from our outstanding teachers — to make it the best year ever for your children. Every Monday, on our Cherokee County School District social media pages, we post a Q&A with top CCSD teachers, asking questions including, “What can parents do to prepare their child for learning?” Here are a few of their responses.
Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.
“Parents can prepare their children for learning by reading to them every day, especially when they are young. Reading with your child sets a strong foundation for better communication skills and exposure to a variety of experiences. Most importantly, it instills positive relationships.” — Allison Hawkins, Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy
“Parents actively participating in their child’s education is a key element in a child’s success. When students see their parents investing time into their schoolwork and activities, students internalize the importance of making the most of their learning opportunities. Frequently reading with their child and practicing basic math facts to build fluency are both solid foundational steps that help prepare all children for learning.”
— Amanda Powell Sixes Elementary School
— Justin Brown, Woodstock Middle School
— John Murnan, Etowah High School AROUND CANTON | August 2022
— Shari Tolan Teasley Middle School
“In order to ensure successful learning experiences for their children, the single most important thing parents can do is to demonstrate the value that they place on education. Being involved, then, is the most effective way to demonstrate that value. That doesn’t necessarily mean focusing simply on grades and achievement, though. Showing genuine interest in what their children are doing at school through a daily conversation about the specifics of their day is a great way for parents to be involved.”
“Learn how to study. In order to learn, people need to be exposed to the same material, repeatedly, over time. I didn’t really learn biology until I taught it. Students sometimes tell me I know a lot, but the reality is, I was just like them, and the only difference between us is experience. Parents should reduce the focus on test scores as a measure of learning, and instead have conversations with their children about what they are learning. Having the student be the teacher is one of the best ways to learn something.”
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“To prepare children for learning at school, parents must expose their children to the world. This can be through reading, music, foods, travel, museums and nature, to name just a few. Respect for others, problem solving, coping mechanisms and responsibility should be modeled at home, to help students have basic tools for learning new things and meeting new people. Curiosity, hard work and empathy cannot be beat when it comes to being a great student.”
NEVER MISS A BEAT!
THEATRE |august 9- September 4 Etowah River Park’s paved, waterfront trail leads to a bridge over the Etowah River, which connects its trails to Heritage Park.
Pet-Friendly Outings Around Canton BY KELLEY ARCHER
The dog days of summer are here … meaning it’s time to get outside and get active! Any day is a good day for adventure – even better when you can bring your furry best friend along for the ride. If you’re looking for a new place to explore, check out this list of pet-friendly spots conveniently located in Canton:
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lantern series |August 27
• Canton Paw Park.
This volunteer-managed dog park features separate areas for large and small dogs to play off-leash. Drinking water, agility equipment and shaded seating areas are available.
• Etowah River Park Loop.
This fun 1.6-mile loop is sure to leave you and your fourlegged friend with a sense of accomplishment for a walk Lantern Series well done. The well-marked trail includes doggy waste disposal stations for your convenience.
UNDER THE STARS
Croce plays croce UPCOMING:
• Hickory Log Creek Reservoir.
New sights and smells await within the approximately 411 acres of reservoir, containing about 15 miles of shoreline and surrounded by a 150-foot buffer.
• Reformation Brewery.
While at The Mill on Etowah, be sure to check out the refreshing craft beer and weekly trivia nights at this spot, which features a spacious fenced-in patio for leashed dogs to enjoy.
Home Grown:
Artists From the Peach State
June 23- August 21
The RT’s September 24 | Eclectic Rock
Opportunities for pet-friendly outings are plentiful in and around Canton. Grab the leash, get out there and have fun!
PLUS... Kelley Archer is the marketing director for Great Sky in Canton.
Visual Arts Classes Ceramics | Painting Mixed Media
Acting Classes
Act | Sing | Improv For all ages!
WOODSTOCKARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Around & About 14 19
AUGUST
6 Lemonade Day
, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., is a free event at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks building, 7545 Main St., in Woodstock. Rising thirdthrough fifth-graders will learn how to start, own and operate their own business with a lemonade stand. Register at https://lemonadeday.org/ cherokee-county.
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The Lake Allatoona Association Poker Run, benefiting Folds of Honor, will begin at 11 a.m. For more information on poker run stops and silent auction bidding, visit https://lakeallatoona-association.square.site/registration. An Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Group meets the second Thursday of each month, 11 a.m. at Little River Methodist Church in Woodstock. Wheelchair accessible. 770-926-2495.
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Shop locally made goods at Maker’s Mash, a pop-up shop featuring local artisans, the second Sunday of the month, 1-6 p.m., at Reformation Brewery in Woodstock. https://visitwoodstockga. com/events.
The Great Georgia Pollinator Census is a citizen science project that allows everyone to participate in counting insects in Georgia. The Cherokee Master Gardeners are hosting two pollinator census locations in Canton, Aug. 19-20 from 10 a.m.-noon. To participate, stop by the Cherokee County Senior Center on Friday and Saturday or the Cherokee Veterans Park Backyard Education Station on Saturday only. The Gallop and Go 5K is set for 8 a.m. at First Baptist Church Woodstock. Check for more details at www.beats-inc.org.
PoBoys Car Club’s Cruise In is the third
Saturday of each month through October, 3-7 p.m., at 1447 Riverstone Parkway in Canton. www.facebook.com/poboyscarclub.
SEPTEMBER
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The 11th annual Taste of Woodstock, benefiting the Woodstock High School Band Program, is back at the Woodstock Arts Event Green. Local restaurants will serve tastes of their best dishes and compete in a variety of categories. Admission is free. Tickets cost $0.50 each and packages start at $5. http://tastewoodstock.com.
Stop by Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Woodstock for electronics recycling and a Red Cross Blood Drive. Sign up for the blood drive, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., at redcrossblood.org. Drop off electronics between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. gslutheran.org.
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The Caffeine and Gasoline Cruise In is the second Saturday of each month, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. in the Riverstone Walmart parking lot. https://bit. ly/3uuYZVR.
24 Sale
Join the inaugural Butterfly Run 5K, 8 a.m., at the Woodstock Arts Event Green. Proceeds will benefit the Amber Brown Family Support Fund at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. https://butterflyrunatl.com.
28 The Cherokee Career Expo
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
Stop by the Cherokee County Senior Center, 9 a.m.-noon, for the Cherokee Master Gardeners’ Fall Plant Sale, featuring a variety of plants, shrubs, trees, garden accessories, expert advice and more. https:// cherokeemastergardeners.com. On Facebook. The third annual Allen Temple Church Yard is 8 a.m.-2 pm. at 232 Arnold Mill Road, in Woodstock. www.facebook.com/ AllenTempleWoodstock.
will be at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center in Canton, 2-6 p.m. Resume review begins at 1 p.m. www.cherokeega.org/career-expo.
RECREATION
MUSIC
www.playcherokee.org Recreation Center: 770-924-7768, Aquatic Center: 678-880-4760.
At the Woodstock Arts Event Green; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org.
Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency
Aug. 3
Unwind Wednesday is the first Wednesday of every month through October, 5:30-8 p.m., at Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton. Featuring a variety of food trucks, live music and more, the event will be fun for the whole family.
Sept. 17
Touch-a-Truck is back, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton. Kids can get in their favorite vehicles — a firetruck, helicopter, police car and more — and meet hometown heroes. The event is free, and there will be food vendors and games. Quiet time for those with sensitive ears is 9:30-10 a.m.
Lantern Series
Aug. 27: Sept. 24: Oct. 8: Oct. 29:
Croce Plays Croce The RT’s Gina Chavez Mountain Heart
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com.
Aug. 13: Sept. 10:
Black Jacket Symphony — Hotel California Scotty McCreery
THEATER
Woodstock Arts www.woodstockarts.org
Through Aug. 21
“Home Grown: Artists From the Peach State” is a
juried exhibit in the Reeves House, highlighting Georgia artists and their work.
Wellness Wednesdays
Join Northside Hospital experts for a virtual health presentation every Wednesday at noon. To register, visit www.northside.com/community-wellness/classes-events.
Aug. 10: Dr. Karen Buhariwalla, Georgia Breast Care Aug. 17: Dr. Emily Zachowski, Northside Family Medicine Aug. 25: Lauren Cicinelli, Northside Hospital Aug. 31: Dr. Steve Lammert, Northside Primary Care Associates
FARMERS MARKETS Farmers Market at River Church
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through October at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.
Aug. 19
Beginning at 6 p.m. at the Reeves House, local artists will create a piece of art on the spot that will be raffled off at the end of the night.
Aug. 19-Sept. 4
“Cry It Out” follows two moms cooped up on maternity
leave and starved for conversation. This comedy with dark edges takes a look at the absurdities of being home with a baby. Recommended for ages 13-plus (content).
Aug. 26
On the last Friday of each month, sit under the stars and enjoy live music at Jazz Night. Tables and chairs are provided; the outdoor bar will be stocked, and music will be playing, 6-9 p.m., on the back porch at the Reeves House.
Ball Ground Farmers & Makers Market is every other Saturday, through Aug. 20, 9 a.m.-noon at City Park in Ball Ground. On Facebook.
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market
8:30 a.m.-noon, Saturdays through Dec. 17. The market is located downtown, on Market Street and in Reformation Brewery’s backyard. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com. AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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GOVERNMENT 46. The Be Brand 47. Whole Soul Shop GOVERNMENT 48. 89th & Autumn Flower Shoppe 49. Mayberry Acres @ The Mill 50. M&M Mercantile Co. 51. Alpine Leather Co.
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Advertisers
This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the Around Canton magazine!
August 2022
ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
7
ANIMALS/PETS Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
23
AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton: 770-720-0765 East Cobb: 770-641-9906
41
BEAUTY SALON & SPA jéa Salon + Spa 470-461-5661 www.jeasalonandspa.com
Inside front
BOAT RENTALS Paradise Rental Boats Inside front 770-746-0007 www.bestinboating.com/boat-rentals BUSINESS SUPPORT Canton Business Club
11
INWDSTK www.inwdstk.org/events
23
DENTAL BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.bridgemilldentistry.com
5
Schmooza Palooza 770-345-0400 www.cherokeechamber.org
19
Homeowners Financial Group 11 Matt Quagliana, 770-885-6060 www.homeownersfg.com/mattquagliana
Woodstock Arts www.woodstockarts.org
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The Dean Team Cover, 28-29 of Homeowners Financial Group 470-863-7071 direct 470-303-0087 cell https://card.get-card.com/joshua-dean
FINANCIAL SERVICES Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org Medicare Insurance Advisors & Guided Medicare Solutions 678-849-9513 LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org
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7
Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
Veracity Capital 678-685-3265 www.veracitycapital.com
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HOME & GARDEN Big Oak Enterprises, LLC 678-721-4959
42
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
9 31
Downtown Canton First Friday Concerts www.cantonga.gov 54
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
PHOTOGRAPHY 45
Red Baryl Portraits 815-540-0936
23
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES 7
Great Sky 770-704-0234 www.greatskyga.com
1
Golf Cars of Canton 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com
Back cover
SENIOR LIVING/SENIOR SERVICES
Gentle Dental Care and Inside back Sundance Pressure and Seal 32 Georgia Dental Implant Center O: 770-720-2303 770-926-2784 C: 404-771-0071 www.georgiadic.com www.sundancepressureandseal.com ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS
Eggs Up Grill 678-990-3447 www.eggsupgrill.com RETAIL
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United Community Bank BridgeMill: 770-704-4949 Riverstone: 770-479-6700 www.ucbi.com/switch
Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
RESTAURANTS
1
Lodge at BridgeMill, The 470-863-2690 www.bridgemillseniors.com
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Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-990-5055 www.manorlakebr.com
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St. George Village 678-987-0406, 678-987-0410 www.stgeorgevillage.org
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SPORTS/SUMMER CAMPS CSA Impact Soccer 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com
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SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
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TRANSPORTATION Royal Treatment Transport 33 470-810-3353 www.royaltreatmenttransportllc.com
We have a place in the homes of our community.
Readers' Choice
Edward Jones, Sarah Kendall 1, 35 770-720-6245 www.edwardjones.com/sarah-kendall
Legends at Laurel Canyon 678-287-3827 www.legendsatlaurelcanyon.com
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Marietta Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center 770-422-1013 www.mariettaderm.com
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Perrotta’s Pizza 470-380-2500 www.perrottaspizza.com
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Sosebee Funeral Home 770-479-2131 www.sosebeefuneralhome.com
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Top Dogs Pet Boutique 770-704-0381 www.topdogspetboutique.com
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Animal Medical & Surgical Center 770-479-0111 www.amsccanton.com
39
Elite Foot and Ankle 770-765-5828 www.elitefootandankle.com
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Captured Moments by Cindy 770-827-0196 www.cmoments.me
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Geiger Legal Group 770-720-4600 www.geiger-legal.com
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9, 35
Grit Life Fitness 470-228-8946 www.gritlifefitness.org
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Homestar Financial, Leanna Stein 404-645-0878 www.loansbyleanna.com
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Keithsburg Cafe 770-479-0405
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Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
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For advertising rates and information | Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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Luxury. Value. Choice.
The luxury you deserve, the value and choice you want. The Lodge at BridgeMill fosters a dynamic, carefree senior lifestyle with everything right at your doorstep. Enjoy spacious apartments with a full calendar of activities, putting green, hot tub and much more!
Premier Senior Living Community 10451 Bells Ferry Road • Canton, GA 30114
• No buy-in fees • Convenient on-site dining • Maintenance-free living • Spa with seasonal pool • Access controlled entry • Transportation services • Supportive services available • Fitness programs • Hair and nail salon • Home care referral options
CALL TODAY! 470-863-2690
BridgemillSeniors.com facebook.com/thelodgeatbridgemill 56
AROUND CANTON | August 2022
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