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12 18
Contents On the Cover
40 August 2022
Features
12 College Essentials 101
Recent graduates and current students offer advice for college freshmen.
18 Get Out and Play!
Explore everything Hobgood Park and Patriots Park have to offer.
40 Girl Scouts Strike Gold
Learn how six Cherokee County Girl Scouts are working toward their Gold Awards.
In Every Issue 4 Around Towne 8 Local News 31 Celebrations 38 Rob’s Rescues 46 Everyday Angels
Page Relocation
Recent expansions equip Justin Page’s movers to better serve clients when they are transporting personal, commercial and corporate treasures.
Pages 32 & 33
Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits 2
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
53 School News 54 Library Events 56 Community Calendar 59 Recent Home Sales
Contributors 55 Charlice Byrd
34 Michael Caldwell 45 Cherokee Women’s
Health Specialists
28 City of Woodstock 52 Barbara Jacoby 44 Harry Johnston 30 Susannah MacKay 38 Rob Macmillan 18 Erika Neldner 48 Deidre Parker 54 John Rodgers 36 Jennifer Ruscilli 26 Susan Schulz 35 Christopher Thornton 50 The Wanderer
60 Shop Local Map
51 Libby Williams
62 Directory of Advertisers
25 Jason Wilson
. .
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
3
Around Towne 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 long 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. (See Pages 12-15.) My crockpot certainly got a workout when our kids were home and busy with school and church activities. We have a selection of easy recipes we hope will get you through your busy days. (Pages 16-17). As a Girl Scout leader for seven years, I can appreciate the hard work the young ladies that we feature on Pages 40-42 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
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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Our Best for Bridal 2023 contest begins Oct. 1.
Kudos!
We’re happy to report that Bruster’s employee Patrick Kinsella received the glasses that correct his color blindness! We told his story on Page 10 of the July TowneLaker (https://bit.ly/3Plw3rj). Money was raised to purchase the glasses, thanks to the generosity of Bruster’s customers and the care of owners Erin Krall and Josh Barrett.
A shelter for homeless veterans (who are clean and sober) 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 to hold a groundbreaking sometime in October.
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Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com
Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | TowneLaker
Our Mission
Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.
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President Kim Dahnke 770-778-5314 kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com Vice President Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com Managing Editor Donna Harris 770-852-8481 donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com Content Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 jessica@aroundaboutmagazines.com Production Manager Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com Graphic Designer Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 denise@aroundaboutmagazines.com Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
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www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | August 2022
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a community magazine with 16,400 free copies distributed monthly. Approximately 15,800 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 600 are placed in racks in the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: TowneLaker, 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.
America’s Community Magazine Volume 27, Issue 3
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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Local News
Be Pro Be Proud Promotes the Importance of Skilled Trades
Be Pro Be Proud Georgia, an initiative that promotes 15 of Georgia’s most in-demand skilled professions through a hands-on mobile workshop and interactive website, visited 43 cities across Georgia during the 2021-22 school year. The initiative’s gamified stations allow students to see what it’s like to get behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler, assemble a PVC pipe, analyze human anatomy through augmented reality, bind metal through a virtual welding experience, explore a career in linework behind the lens of an Oculus VR headset, discover robotics and automation, and test hand-eye coordination through an engaging skills challenge. As part of the tour, middle and high school students are given the opportunity to "join the movement” to be connected to training and potential employers that need new employees to replenish the diminishing workforce. Of the 13,532 students who toured, nearly 75% (10,129) “joined the movement” – expressing their career plans. Nearly 60% of these students noted they plan to pursue a career in the skilled professions or technical training after graduation. Will Nichelson, a Creekview High School graduate, discovered his career path during a Be Pro Be Proud visit in 2020. “I knew I wanted to work with my hands, and our school didn’t have many options,” Nichelson said. “I was asked to help on the mobile workshop in 10th grade, and it was cool playing with the simulators. This experience encouraged me to look into welding. I learned that I could go to Chattahoochee Technical College and do welding as a high school student, so I am graduating this year with my welding certifications before I am finished with high school.” Four new partners joined Be Pro Be Proud Georgia in 2022, including American Home Shield, Georgia Northwestern Technical College, Select Cobb and Wellstar
Creekview High School students, from left: Emily Gudermuth, Carson Cater and Will Nichelson. Seated: Ryan Burch 8
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Be Pro Be Proud Georgia Tour Manager Reggie Lagrone and Tour Driver Matthew “Hutch” Hutcheson.
Health System. In April, Wellstar Health System joined Be Pro Be Proud as its first health care partner, a field that is projected to grow more than 10% over the next decade. “As one of the Southeast’s largest healthcare systems, Wellstar looks forward to having this incredible opportunity to expose students to skilled professions in healthcare and navigate them to a successful career through this innovative program,” said Wellstar Vice President of Strategic Community Development Stephen Vault. Since 2020, Be Pro Be Proud has hosted nearly 24,000 visitors on the mobile workshop, across 43 counties and 238 tour stops. “The demand continues to grow for skilled workers across our state, and these students are the solution,” said Cherokee Office of Economic Development President Misti Martin. “Programs like Be Pro Be Proud help fulfill essential workforce needs and reach students early while they’re still discovering possible careers.” In addition to identifying the state’s top skilled professions, Be Pro Be Proud Georgia provides robust training resources — offering a comprehensive list of Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) training programs and costs. Of the 22 technical colleges throughout the state, the mobile workshop has visited more than 15 TCSG territories since launch. Georgia Northwestern Technical College is one of those valued partners. “Georgia Northwestern Technical College is proud to partner with Be Pro Be Proud in shining a spotlight on all the high-demand careers available in northwest Georgia,” said Amber Jordon, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC). “Our mission at GNTC is to provide quality technical education and workforce development opportunities throughout the communities we serve. The goals of Be Pro Be Proud Georgia align perfectly with our mission, and we are so excited that this program will give students the opportunity to experience hands-on simulations and generate awareness and excitement for skilled professions in healthcare, industrial and computer technology fields.” Through partnerships with state agencies, local industry and higher education entities, Be Pro Be Proud is effectively working to connect students around the state to high-demand careers, replenishing essential jobs vacated by the retiring workforce. To view upcoming tour dates, visit www.beprobeproudga.org.
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9
Local News
Hams Practice Emergency Skills at Field Day
The Cherokee Amateur Radio Society took part in the recent annual North American Field Day for amateur radio operators. More than 40,000 hams throughout North America set up temporary transmitting stations in public places to demonstrate ham radio's science, skill and service to local communities and the nation. Cherokee County’s group uses field day as an exercise in emergency operations; others treat it as a competition or social gathering. The Cherokee club demonstrated its ability to set up communications equipment that does not depend on standard infrastructure, including electrical power. The club has been active in Cherokee County since 1990 and has grown rapidly in the last 3 years. “We have seen a 600% increase in the club membership and interest in this hobby. We help people understand how to obtain their Federal Communications Commission license, and provide the testing for these licenses,” said Martin Buehring, club president. Club members meet at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of the month at the William G. Long Senior Center at 223 Arnold Mill Road. For more information, call 678-386-8492 or visit www.wx4car.org.
Club members with their radio equipment during June’s field day event.
The Veterans Tribute Carillon Tower is located in the Georgia National Cemetery.
Tribute Tower Dedicated to American Veterans
On June 18, a dedication was held for the Veterans Tribute Carillon Tower, a four story, stateof-the-art carillon bell tower, which was installed May 16, 2020, on one of the highest, most visible points in our state’s national cemetery in Canton. It stands as a beacon of appreciation to veterans — past, present and future – after countless delays and the pandemic. The tower was completely funded by donations made through the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Georgia National Cemetery Advisory Council. This 100% volunteer-operated organization raised nearly $400,000 to fund this project. Hardscaping, landscaping and a viewing area are in the works, and the tower plaque reads: “This tower stands as a lasting tribute, honoring the past, saluting the present and inspiring the future for all American veterans.” To watch the Carillon Tower Dedication Program video, visit https://vimeo.com/721833524.
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11
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 and Cobb counties 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 Crock-Pot were huge lifesavers. I would meal-prep and freeze a lot of meals. I could easily grab one out of the freezer, stick it in the Crock-Pot 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?
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. Rachel with her parents, Randy and Jodi Murphy. 12
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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 off-brand 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.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
BROOKE VON SEEGER Brooke, a 2018 Etowah High graduate, recently graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family science and a minor in business. She has accepted a position with PepsiCo Frito-Lay as a sales management associate. Her tips for collegebound students:
•
Don’t leave home without a good laptop (definitely do your research). Also, buy lots of vitamin C, specifically Airborne vitamins! • Make sure to bring your pillow. I forgot to pack my pillow, and I was so sad. • Do not overpack! I am guilty of bringing too much stuff no matter the occasion. Only pack what you need, and then add one more outfit. As far as packing a car, utilize every space, i.e., your laundry hamper as a holder for smaller items. Use blankets and bathroom towels as padding between breakable items. • Packing a car is like a puzzle. Take your time, step back and look at what you are working with before beginning. Good luck; you will become a pro by your third year! • Get involved. Whether that means joining organizations, going Greek or joining a club/intramural team on campus, it’s a great way to meet new people. It helps make a large campus feel smaller, and it makes the adjustment to college life easier.
CHELSEY KELLY Chelsey graduated from Georgia State University in 2020 with her bachelor’s degree in film and media. She’s pursuing a master’s in Christian ministry at Mercer University Atlanta and is set to graduate in May 2023. Her advice:
•
Bring a planner. It’s the only way you’ll be able to remember all of your assignments, appointments, meetings, etc. Whether it’s a calendar on your phone or a paper planner, carry it with you everywhere! • I wish I would've brought my own Wi-Fi router. Unfortunately, campus and/or dorm Wi-Fi can be finicky. • For packing a suitcase, section your loose items like toiletries into plastic bags and roll your clothes so you can fit more. For loading a car, pack loose items into flexible bags and label them all to make unpacking easier. • Remember to explore the resources on your campus, such as your advisers, career counselors, professors and even alumni. Half of the college experience is about the connections you make and the onthe-job experience/internships you’re able to put on your resume.
GRANT GILBERT Grant recently graduated from the University of North Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in digital marketing. His advice for first-time college students:
•
Always keep an extra pair of comfortable clothes to carry around with you (in your backpack, etc.), in case you get rained on on your way to class or you get asked to hangout with friends after class. • One thing I didn't bring was pots or pans, yikes! • When packing your car, moving the passenger seat all the way up gives you a little more space after you fold down your seats. • Don't worry about if you will make friends in college. I promise, you will make some great friends that make college much easier. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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5
Must-Try
Simple School Night Recipes
After working all day, picking up your kids from school and taking them to sports practice, you probably aren’t itching to come home and cook a four-course meal. But, even on the busiest nights, you don’t have to make stopping at McDonald’s on the way home a part of your routine — and, if you do, we won’t judge! Here are some recipes submitted by your neighbors, to help make dinners at home fast and easy, when they need to be (aka most of the time).
Garlic Butter Baked Flounder Sydney Galantiz, Woodstock
A low-carb side for this meal is asparagus, and you can cook it in the oven at the same time. Place the asparagus on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stick it in the oven when you put in the flounder. Check after 15 minutes.
Ingredients • • • • • • • •
1 pound flounder filets salt and pepper paprika cayenne pepper garlic powder 2 lemons 4 tablespoons butter, divided 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Pat the flounder dry with paper towels. Season both sides liberally with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper and garlic powder. Cut one lemon in thin slices and the other in wedges, for serving. Make a tin foil packet on a sheet pan. Place half of the butter in the packet, and add the seasoned fish filets. Top with minced garlic, lemon slices and remaining butter. Seal the foil packet, and place the pan in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
4-Ingredient Lazy Lasagna Katie Phillips, Woodstock
This is a great recipe to make with kids. There’s no chopping involved, and they can help you layer the “lasagna.” Another plus is the prep time is short, and it’s on the table in less than an hour. When you’re shopping for ingredients to make this, pick up a salad kit as an easy side.
Ingredients • • • •
1 jar (24-ounce) pasta sauce 1 bag frozen ravioli 16 ounces shredded mozzarella ½ cup shredded parmesan
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish, and spread a thin layer of pasta sauce (less than 1 cup) in the bottom of the dish. Arrange about half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Top with half of the remaining sauce and half of the mozzarella. Repeat with remaining ravioli, sauce and mozzarella. Sprinkle with parmesan. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese starts to brown. Note: If you like meatier recipes, add ground beef or mushrooms to the dish, or serve with meatballs. I like to use chunky pasta sauce to incorporate more vegetables.
Cuban-Style Mojo Pulled Pork Cristina Markley, Canton
For a quick and easy meal, serve with buns for barbeque sandwiches. For a full meal, serve with mashed potatoes, gravy and corn.
Ingredients
• 2 pounds pork tenderloin, frozen • ½ bottle of Goya Mojo Criollo Marinade
Directions
Place pork in a Crock-Pot, and pour the marinade over the pork. Cook on low heat for 8 hours. Shred the pork in the Crock-Pot so it soaks the juice back up.
Easy Chicken Pot Pie Janis Forrester, Canton
Ingredients
• 1 (12.5-ounce) can cooked chicken breast, drained • salt and pepper • 1 can mixed vegetables, drained • 1 can cream of chicken soup • 1 can cream of potato soup • 1 can crescent rolls
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Combine chicken, salt and pepper (to taste), vegetables and soups into a bowl. Mix well. Pour mixture into a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish. Unroll crescent rolls and place on top of the filling. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
Skillet Flat Iron Fajitas Jeffrey Lee, Woodstock
Skip the marinade! You can make tasty fajitas without marinating your steak for hours. Serve with flour tortillas, guacamole, queso or sour cream.
Ingredients • • • • •
1 pound flat iron steak 2 bell peppers (color of choice) 1 small white onion 1 ½ tablespoons fajita seasoning, separated 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Directions
Slice the steak, bell peppers and onion into strips. In a bowl, add the sliced steak and 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning. Toss to coat. In a separate bowl, add vegetables and ½ tablespoon of fajita seasoning. Toss to coat. Set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and vegetables to the hot skillet. Cook for 4 minutes, or just until vegetables begin to soften. Add the steak to the pan (Leave the vegetables in!), and stir frequently. Cook for 6 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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Hobgood Park
Hobgood Park.
Park It!
Hobgood, Patriots Offer Unique Opportunities BY ERIKA NELDNER
Hobgood Park and Patriots Park are two of the most widely used parks in Cherokee County. Separated by less than a mile, both parks serve thousands of people each week. From baseball to softball, multipurpose fields, pavilions, tennis, walking tracks and dog parks, there’s something for just about everyone.
Patriots Park. 18
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Hobgood Park features four championship, lighted adult-youth softball diamonds, six baseball diamonds, two batting cages, one artificial-turf athletic field, four tennis courts, a playground, a half-mile walking track, three pavilions, four picnic areas and restrooms. The softball fields, pavilions and turf athletic field are available for rent. Summer can be the busiest time at both parks, as each hosts all-star and travel baseball and softball tournaments throughout the season, contributing to the $11.5 million the sports tourism industry brought to Cherokee County in the past year. The 60-acre park has two complexes: softball and baseball. The baseball complex is leased to nonprofit Hobgood Baseball, which runs the baseball programs for boys and girls ages 3-17. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.hobgoodparkbaseball.com. The softball complex is run by Cherokee Recreation and Parks, which offers youth and adult softball leagues. A 2021 Board of Commissioners decision brought in more than $200,000 for improvements to Hobgood Park, including new dugouts, pressure washing and painting of the concessions area. The revenue also is funding tennis court resurfacing. The Hobgood Park softball complex focuses on adult softball leagues (many of the youth programs operate out of the Twin Creeks Softball Complex at J.J. Biello Park). Registration is team-based and is open to anyone. Adult leagues play Monday through Thursday evenings during the spring and fall seasons. On average, there are 50 men’s teams, 20 co-ed teams and 15 church teams each season. Four lighted tennis courts are available for use and can be reserved through the Cherokee Tennis Center by visiting login.reservemycourt.com. The multipurpose fields at Hobgood Park are located through the entrance to the Hobgood Park Baseball complex, and are home to adult flag football in the spring, summer and fall. Active users of the multipurpose fields include Cherokee Youth Football, Cherokee Youth Lacrosse and the Cherokee Girls Flag Football League. The fields also are open for use for soccer, although Cherokee Youth Soccer operates out of the Badger Creek Soccer Complex in the Holly Springs area. The multipurpose fields are available to rent, as are the pavilions located at the park. Reservations can be made by calling 770-924-7768.
Patriots Park
The 33-acre Patriots Park, located on Kellogg Creek Road, includes two natural-grass baseball-softball diamonds, two fenced off-leash dog areas, a fully accessible and inclusive playground, a paved walking path, a large open meadow, a picnic pavilion, restrooms and an artificial turf adaptive-use baseball-softball diamond. Pawtriots Park — the dog park inside Patriots Park — has a 10,000-square-foot fenced area for small dogs under 30 pounds. It features a hurdle and stands, which are available for the public’s use. The large dog park is 30,000 square feet and includes a tunnel and platform for play. Park users are limited to three dogs each at a time. Patriots Park also features Freedom Field, an adaptive-use field designed for athletes of all abilities. It is home to the North Metro Miracle League Cherokee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive adapted sports and social activities for children and adults of all abilities. Last season, 60 players were registered with North Metro Miracle League Cherokee and volunteers gave their time to assist during the games. North Metro Miracle League Cherokee began in 2002, and Freedom Field became its home when Patriots Park opened in 2017. Those interested in getting involved with the league can message its Facebook page at facebook.com/northmetrocherokee or email commissioner@nmmlcherokee.net. Just down the way from Freedom Field is an adaptive-use playground specifically built for children of all abilities. It features swings, ramps, climbing structures, slides and more. The playground is the only fully accessible and inclusive playground in Cherokee County, meaning anyone with mobility issues should be able to access all of it. The playground also has elements designed for individuals with special needs, such as sounds, different textures for the vision impaired, etc. Patriots Park also features two natural-grass baseball-softball diamonds, a pavilion available for rent, restrooms and an open meadow area. All park features are encircled by a three-quarter mile walking path that is used by about 100 people per day. • • • •
Tennis court reservations: login.reservemycourt.com Pavilion and field rentals: 770-924-7768 Hobgood Baseball: hobgoodparkbaseball.com North Metro Miracle League Cherokee: commissioner@nmmlcherokee.net • More information: playcherokee.org Erika Neldner is the communications director for Cherokee County. Erika, married with two boys, has lived and worked in Cherokee County since 2005.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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Imagine this: You worked hard to improve and customize what you believe to be a perfect home. It is in one of the best neighborhoods in Towne Lake, with amazing amenities and schools, and friendly neighbors. You landscaped beautifully, installed a deck, updated the flooring, added new fixtures and even repainted. You’re proud of your accomplishments within the house, yet find yourself ready to move on to more space, or to downsize, or move to a new location entirely. With all of this in mind, you know you want someone to treasure your home the way you did, and you want to get paid for everything you have invested in it over the years. You know your house is worth a pretty penny, and you find yourself scrolling through various housing websites to see how you might start to put a value on your priceless home. And, then, you see it: a guaranteed internet offer, fantastic terms, quick closing! Is it too good to be true? The truth is … there is a catch. When you sign on the dotted line with an internet investor, you sign away the equity that you put your blood, sweat and tears into building. You might not even realize it. Why? It seems like a really good price — lots of zeroes are tempting! — and convenient. But, did you know that, with an educated, full-time real estate expert, the story could go differently? A Towne Lake resident recently experienced this exact scenario. They knew their house was amazing, and they wanted to get paid what it was worth. As they scrolled through housing websites, they found an internet offer, a whopping $347,000. Here’s where the story changed for them: They talked with a local real estate professional to find out the real value of their home. And, for just one weekend of inconvenience for showings, they closed for $551,000. Had they signed with the internet buyer, they would have left a total of $204,000 on the table! Of course, they were deeply relieved that the excitement and convenience of an instant offer didn’t sway them in their decision to consult and hire a realtor. If you’re selling, do your research, and reach out to a real estate professional first, so you can get the price you know you deserve. It will be worth the time and effort on closing day; that’s for sure. Ursula and Associates (Jason Wilson and Ursula Butler) is a real estate team, associated with Keller Williams Realty Partners, that has specialized in Woodstock and surrounding areas since 1996. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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Let
ree d om RING
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY OF WOODSTOCK
Woodstock’s Fourth of July celebrations can be summed up in three words: freedom, fireworks and fun. Festivities began bright and early with the 25th annual Freedom Run, followed by the parade, festival and fireworks at dusk. Check out these photos from the parade to see if you recognize any of your neighbors.
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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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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Celebrations!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com September deadline is Aug. 5. Please specify TowneLaker.
Andrew
Happy 14th birthday! We love you so much, Mom, Mr. Nils, Anna and Amelia
Abigale Montgomery and Justin Olive were married June 11 in Gainesville. Congratulations!
Alyssa
Happy 10th birthday to my little amk, Alyssa. May all your wishes and dreams come true. Love, Gramma and Papa
Jay Johns
Happy fifth birthday Jay "bug!” We love you so much! Daddy, Mommy and Helen
Gram Schroeder
Age 5 on Aug. 2 Our sweet boy is turning 5 and heading to kindergarten. We know he will thrive. Grateful parents, Pete and Corinne, and big sister, Alice
Russell Vaudrey
On July 10, longtime Woodstock resident Russell Vaudrey celebrated his 100th birthday! Vaudrey’s grandchildren — Brian Volk, Stephanie Miller and Matt Volk — hosted a celebration at Woodstock City Church. Mayor Michael Caldwell announced that July 10, 2022 had been proclaimed Russell Carl Vaudrey Day.
Alice Schroeder
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. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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SPONSORED CONTENT
‘Your Simplest Move Ever’
A variety of trucks available for any size move.
Expansions Equip Page Relocation to Better Serve Clients by Transporting Personal, Commercial and Corporate Treasures
W
ith a new operations center and a growing fleet, the team at Page Relocation is busy every week, moving residential and commercial clients across town and across the country. Yet, the owner and employees continue to find time to work on improving the company to maintain an excellent level of customer service, ensuring for each client that every move is their simplest move ever.
Atlanta Operations Center
Page Relocation recently added a second operations center in Atlanta to support its Canton headquarters. This new center offers the ability to serve the growing customer base in Atlanta more directly while maintaining the excellent service provided to Cherokee and the North Metro. It’s staffed with additional moving crews and customer care specialists dedicated to helping customers make their next move their simplest one.
New Semitruck
The recent addition of two new semitrucks with custom-built moving trailers makes local and long-distance 32
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
moving much easier. The new trailers can hold the equivalent of three of the company’s regular size moving trucks. In addition to these new trailers, which are used continuously, Page Relocation is looking to add another truck to its growing fleet. “These trucks offer us great possibilities to help our customers more efficiently,” owner Justin Page said. “We have multiple moving trucks on order to keep up with the high demand. Our business has been blessed with the ability to grow, where we are making the right moves to live up to our motto of making your upcoming move your simplest move ever.”
Growing Partnerships
Page Relocation has reached out in the community and has been fortunate to build relationships with Cherokee County businesses. Page Relocation is proud to be the official moving partner of several real estate companies in Atlanta and North Georgia. “I’ve worked hard for over 15 years to build personal relationships with hundreds of toprated realtors, and I’m blessed that
they trust me enough to refer Page Relocation to their clients,” Page said. These partnerships make the home buying and moving process even simpler. It also is the moving partner and upcoming 2022-23 Hole 18 sponsor for the Towne Lake Hills Golf Club.
Boxer Educates Children
Another new initiative at Page Relocation involves the younger members of families in transit. “We Are Moving” is an activity and coloring book that explains the basics of the moving process, in an effort to reduce the stress children might feel during what can be a major event in a family’s life. The publication introduces Boxer, the new ambassador for Page Relocation. With Boxer’s help, children get excited about the process. Meet him at www.pagerelocation.com/boxer, where free coloring pages can be downloaded.
1. TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES. The latest technology makes it possible to offer walk-through estimates and inventory checks through the artificial intelligence-enabled web platform. Page representatives can connect clients to it through a livestream connection on the phone. 2. NO STRESS. As a Christian company, clients can rely on their experience being based on leadership principles of integrity, compassion, caring and service. 3. A LARGE, VERSATILE FLEET. With multiple sizes and categories of trucks, Page Relocation can take care of any size commercial or residential move, whether it’s across town or across the country. “We have the experience, dedication and equipment to make this your simplest move ever,” Justin said. 4. PROPER PROTECTION. Preparation begins by applying padding to doors, hallways, floors and anything else that needs to be protected. Each piece of furniture is wrapped, so clients know their belongings are safe. 5. RELOCATION SPECIALISTS. Have peace-of-mind knowing the specialists in your home are full time, background checked, drug tested and properly trained. This is just another way Page Relocation differs from the competition.
PHOTO BY ALEXIA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS
Other Perks of Page Relocation
6. CLEANING SERVICES. Whether it’s cleaning the old house or the new home or business, it’s another way the company works to make each move as simple as possible for the client. 7. JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES. This is just another way Page Relocation makes moving simple. Clearing out that garage or basement has never been so simple as with our junk removal services during your move. 8. STORAGE SERVICES. From short-term to long-term storage, Page Relocation can help you move and settle into your new home on your timetable.
Just a little more than two years ago, Justin started Page Relocation with two trucks and a driving ambition to grow. With more than 15 years of moving experience, he was excited at the possibilities that were ahead, and he couldn’t be happier with how the company has grown with the outpouring of support from the community.
Whether it’s a move to another street or another state, Page Relocation can make your next move your simplest move ever. Get a free quote at www.pagerelocation.com or call 770-224-8184. You also can watch the company’s new commercial at www.pagerelocation.com/tv.
Justin Page wants to provide customers with a stress-free move.
READERS’
CHOICE WINNER 2022
BEST Relocation Service
PAGE RELOCATION, LLC 620 Waleska Road Canton, GA 30114
770-224-8184
PageRelocation.com E PageRelocation
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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T
A Message From the
he most important duty of our City Council is the adoption of a fiscally responsible, balanced budget each year. On June 13, council passed, and I was proud to sign, the ordinance to provide for our Fiscal Year 2023 Budget — its execution took effect July 1 and will end June 30, 2023. I am very proud to report that our city continues to assess some of the lowest municipal taxes in the metro Atlanta region, all while providing some of the highest quality services to our residents and investing in critical public priorities. If you ever want to discover a person’s priorities, you only need to take a look at their checkbook. This same principle applies to governments. This column will cover a high-level breakdown of Woodstock’s FY 2023 ( July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023) budget, and we’ll examine where our city focuses its attention. The total budget this year allocates $72,110,126 spread over five funds, with a total general fund expenditure coming in at $24,879,561 of that amount. 01 General Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38.5% 02 Water-Sewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.1% 03 Storm Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.5% 04 SPLOST V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7% 05 Special Revenue/Internal Service . . . . 4.5%
$24.8 million $13.7 million $1.5 million $16.2 million $15.7 million
01 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27.81% 02 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.60% 03 Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.99% 04 Parks and Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.35% 05 Municipal Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.57% 06 All Remaining City Government . . . 30.68%
$6.9 million $5.3 million $2.2 million $1.5 million $1.1 million $7.6 million
Most of these funds are dedicated toward specific purposes, i.e., Water-Sewer as a separate fund intended to sustain our clean water and sewer treatment services. The General Fund comprises the lion’s share of our budgeting and serves as the best place to identify priorities. It is divided as follows:
The first two departments, our police and fire departments, comprise nearly 50% of our city’s budget. If you were to determine our city’s No. 1 priority based on budget allocation, there is no contest. We put public safety first.
The next 20% of our budget is allocated across Public Works (infrastructure), Parks and Recreation, and our city’s judicial branch. These five departments together comprise roughly 70% of our total budget, leaving all remaining portions of our government spread across the final 30%. Now, we’ve seen the check stubs. What do they tell us about our city’s priorities? As I look over Woodstock’s five largest expenses, I see three major themes. • We spend 54% of our general fund on public safety and justice, coming in at about $13.4 million. Our city is a thriving city, but only so long as it remains a safe city. Over the past decade, we grew by 50% in population and saw a 44% reduction in crime at the same time. We take public safety seriously here, and our checkbook shows it. • After public safety, our city will dedicate roughly 9% of our general fund to infrastructure maintenance and investment. When including other funds, like our SPLOST V and Water-Sewer funds, we’ll be investing tens of millions of dollars into Woodstock’s transportation and support infrastructure over the next year. • Finally, we’ll be investing another 6.35% into our Parks and Recreation Department, to ensure our residents and visitors have a vibrant, best-in-class experience in our city. The remainder of the government, ranging across economic development, community development, administration, human resources, geographic information systems, information technology and more, is funded by the remaining 30% of our budget. All the while, our city’s debt balance is at its lowest in a decade and our tax rates remain intentionally low. We are prioritizing a fiscally conservative approach to our city’s budget, while also ensuring we invest in the people and systems that make Woodstock one of the best places to live in America. We have built an incredible place that people want to be, and by ensuring we use the resources each of us as taxpayers have invested wisely, we’ll build a city that our children are proud to inherit. — Mayor Michael Caldwell
Michael Caldwell is the 31st mayor of Woodstock, a retired state legislator, member of the Georgia Technology Authority, partner at Black Airplane, husband to Katie, and father to Oliver, Elizabeth and Charlotte.
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TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Pickin’ and GRINNIN’ PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER THORNTON
On June 17, William G. Long Senior Center staff hosted a Father’s Day luncheon, catered by J.D.'s Bar-B-Que, with a car show and live music for senior center members to enjoy. One member, Richard Olson, right, is a part of the American Jammers, a group of musicians who entertained the crowd.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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.
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 36
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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.
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:
• https://extension.uga.edu/countyoffices/cherokee/contact-us.html • https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/find_a_plant • www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poisoncontrol/toxic-and-non-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.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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.
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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.
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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. 40
TOWNELAKER | 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.
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. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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.
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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.
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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
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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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.
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has six OB-GYNs and five midlevel providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.
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:
www.CherokeeChamber.com 770-345-0400 Meagan@CherokeeChamber.com TOWNELAKER | 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. 46
TOWNELAKER | 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.
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5 Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment BY DEIDRE PARKER
A wheel alignment is one of the most commonly missed and most expensive maintenance jobs to ignore. When your wheel alignment is incorrect, not only does your car pull in one direction, but it also can make your brakes less efficient. Your vehicle might not grip the road well, causing slipping, and your tires might wear out much faster. Pay close attention to these possible symptoms of a misalignment:
1.
Vehicle pulling in one direction. The most obvious
sign it’s time to get an alignment is if your vehicle starts to pull to one side of the road while driving. If you let go of the steering wheel and your car pulls into one lane or the other, you might need to get your wheels aligned.
2. Uneven tire wear.
Check the pattern of wear on your front and back tires. If the wear seems to be the same, you’re good to go. If the wear on the tires seems inconsistent, you might need to get your vehicle checked for misalignment.
3. Vibration.
Steering wheel vibration can be caused by various car problems, including a misalignment. If you notice your steering wheel vibrating as you drive, there likely is an underlying problem.
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4. Crooked steering wheel.
Test letting go of your wheel (when you’re stopped safely at a red light, for example). If it’s crooked or steering one way over another, your tires likely are not aligned correctly. Your wheel should be almost completely straight. Pay attention; you could be correcting your steering wheel subconsciously as you drive.
5. Loose steering wheel.
A loose steering wheel is another — and especially dangerous — sign of a misalignment. If your car generally feels “wrong” while driving around a corner, or even while switching lanes, get your vehicle in for a checkup. If you think your vehicle has any (or multiple) symptoms, you likely need to get your tires aligned. Luckily, it easily can be done when you bring your car in for your next oil change. Be sure to tell the mechanics all the symptoms, so they can diagnose the problem properly and fix the issue.
Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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 50
TOWNELAKER | 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.
Picking Up the Paintbrush Again BY LIBBY WILLIAMS
Do you remember the first day of band class or your first soccer practice? Seeing all of the shiny instruments beckoning you to try them, or throwing on cleats and shin guards for the first time? Kids constantly are being pushed in every direction, to try something new and pursue their passions. But, after graduating from high school and facing the “real world,” a lot of those passions melt away. A resume full of extracurriculars turns into a list of what we used to do. Why does that curious spirit get squashed as we get older? When was the last time you picked up a hobby from your childhood, or — better yet — tried something new? That sense of excitement is out there waiting for you to find it! Woodstock Arts is proud to offer classes for kids and adults in all of our departments. If the last time you picked up a paintbrush was in a high school art class, this is your sign to dive back in. Our curriculum is aimed to meet students where they are, regardless of prior experience or skill level. If you walked past the high school auditorium and felt your heart pull toward the laughter echoing through the air but never had the time to try it, this is your sign to take an improv class. Find the piece of yourself you left behind. We get it; that’s easier said than done. A class doesn’t fit into everyone's schedule. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities throughout the year with a much smaller time commitment. Our painting team comes in on an occasional Lantern Series morning to paint sets for a few hours. Our costume team spends a couple of evenings looking through our stock and pulling pieces to bring stories to life. Our front of house team comes in an hour before curtain, helps us get everyone in their seats and then gets to join us for a free show that evening. That's just the tip of the iceberg at Woodstock Arts. There always is a show, concert or an exhibit, and we always welcome help from our community to make it happen. To try something new, let your creativity flow and be a part of something, visit www.woodstockarts.org for a list of classes and volunteer opportunities.
UNDER THE STARS
PLUS...
Libby Williams is the marketing manager for Woodstock Arts. Connect with us on social media, @woodstockgaarts, to always be the first to know about upcoming events!
NEVER MISS A BEAT!
THEATRE |august 9- September 4
19
lantern series |August 27
Croce plays croce UPCOMING:
Home Grown:
Artists From the Peach State
June 23- August 21
Visual Arts Classes Ceramics | Painting Mixed Media
The RT’s September 24 | Eclectic Rock
Acting Classes
Act | Sing | Improv For all ages!
WOODSTOCKARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | 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 TOWNELAKER | 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.”
School News
Sumner Named Gatorade Player of the Year
Will Sumner, who graduated from Woodstock High School in May, recently was named the 2021-22 Gatorade Georgia Boys Track and Field Player of the Year. Sumner’s honors include winning the 400-meter dash at the Georgia Class 7A state meet with a personal best time of 45.78 seconds, setting a state record and leading Woodstock’s team to win the 4x800 relay and fourth place overall. Sumner won the 400 at the Brooks PR Invitational, with a time of 45.90. At the Music City Distance Carnival in June, he clocked a personal best of 1 minute, 46.53 seconds in the 800, which was No. 2 in the nation, No. 3 in U.S. prep (high school) track and field history and only 0.08 seconds behind the national record.
Cherokee Mountain Education Graduates Grow
In June, 77 seniors graduated from Cherokee Mountain Education Charter High School, more than doubling the number of students (32) who earned high school diplomas last year. The Cherokee campus opened in August 2020 in Canton, with approximately 40 students. Now, the campus serves nearly 600. The afternoon and evening classes at the public high school allow students to achieve Georgia high school diplomas. In addition to its full-time students, students who take a class or classes with Cherokee Mountain part time and transfer the completed credit(s) back to the high school in which they are enrolled full time also are served. The curriculum is self-paced and mastery based, meaning students progress through courses at their own pace.
Cherokee Mountain Education Charter High School class of 2022.
Graduate Earns East West Bank Scholarship Recent Etowah graduate Ella Daugherty is the winner of the 2022 East West Bank $2,500 Scholarship, an annual partnership agreement between the bank and the school board. Daugherty will use the scholarship at the University of Georgia, where she plans to study business management and health policy and administration to pursue a career as a hospital administrator.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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 expand 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!
Visitors make superhero masks at the pop-up library in downtown Woodstock in June.
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 bug-themed 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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TOWNELAKER | 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 770926-5859. Ages 17 and older are encouraged. Register online.
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.
Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives. charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov.
TOWNELAKER | 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 third- through 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://lake-allatoonaassociation.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. The ninth annual Chick-fil-A Moo’ve It 5K, benefiting the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and the Cherokee County Special Olympics, is back at Etowah River Park in Canton. The race begins at 8 a.m. and is an official qualifying event for the Peachtree Road Race. To register, visit cfamooveit.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. 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.
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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.
Shop locally made goods at Maker’s Mash, a popup 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.
26 tribute concert 27
Join the Georgia Players Guild for an Eagles , 8-10 p.m. at the Canton Theatre. https://gpg.ticketleap.com/cantoneagles/details. Canton’s 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
10 15
Canton’s Multicultural Festival returns to Etowah River Park, 11 a.m.- 3p.m. www.cantonga.gov. 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.
RECREATION
THEATER
woodstockparksandrec.com // 770-592-6000, Ext. 1955 Registration is required for all programs.
www.cherokeetheatre.org
Woodstock Parks and Recreation
Cherokee Theatre Company
Through August
Aug. 12-14, 19-21
read a book and enjoy Woodstock’s trails at the same time. This month, from dawn to dusk, visit the Rubes Creek Trail to read “A Tale of Two Beasts” by Fiona Roberton. Registration not required.
by William Shakespeare. Directed by Ed Palombo. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.
TrailStory gives children in grades K-6 and their families a fun, active way to
Aug. 3, 17
Discovering Pickleball is a class for ages 18 and older that gets you ready to
play pickleball — and you will, by the end of the session. Equipment is provided. The class is taught at 6:30 p.m. at the Dupree Park pickleball courts. Fee: $5.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
Oct. 21-23, 28-30
“A Party to Murder” by Marcia Kash
Aug. 6, 20
and Douglas E. Hughes. Directed by Jeannie and Wally Hinds. Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.
Michael Murphy and his staff from Murph’s Surf. Participants will learn about water safety and paddleboarding basics on Allatoona Lake. Fee: $49.95.
Woodstock Arts
Discovering Paddleboarding, 10 a.m., at 6983 Bells Ferry Road, is led by
Aug. 13
Join Cherokee County Master Gardeners and Cherokee County UGA Extension representatives, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, for a fall gardening in Georgia class. Fee: $5.
Aug. 20
Stop by the Gazebo in the Park at City Center, 11 a.m., for a free Storytime
Live! With Mirabel.
Aug. 27
Join Cherokee County Master Gardeners and Cherokee County UGA Extension representatives, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, for a canning and preserving class. Participants will receive a canned vegetable to take home. Fee: $5.
William G. Long Senior Center Programs woodstockparksandrec.com // 678-445-6518 Age minimum for all programs is 50. Registration is required.
Aug. 5
Visit the Mill on Etowah and enjoy a concert in downtown Canton, 3-9
p.m. Shop, eat, mingle and listen to live music (Bumpin’ the Mango). Fee: $3.
Aug. 11
Join Mats for Vets Volunteer Day, 2-4 p.m., to help cut bags and crochet mats for homeless veterans.
Aug. 22
Play Family Feud at the center, 2-4 p.m.
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.
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.
Aug. 25
Mingle, enjoy appetizers and check out art created by senior center members at Art Exhibition After Hours, 4-6 p.m.
Aug. 24
Tellus Museum Day Trip is 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fee: $25.
Aug. 31
Take a trip to Calhoun to visit Buc-ee's, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fee $3. TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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Around & About
continued
FARMERS MARKETS 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.
Farmers Market at River Church
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through October at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.
Canton Farmers Market
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct. 15 in Brown Park. https://bit.ly/3w3RTco.
Ball Ground Farmers & Makers Market is every other Saturday, through Aug. 20, 9 a.m.-noon at City Park in Ball Ground. On Facebook.
NETWORKING
Woodstock Business Club Photo courtesy of the city of Woodstock.
MUSIC
Fresh Start Cherokee @ The Circuit
The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com. Aug. 13: Black Jacket Symphony — Hotel California Sept. 10: Scotty McCreery
1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC) Cherokee
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
Lantern Series
At the Woodstock Arts Event Green; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org. Aug. 27: Croce Plays Croce Sept. 24: The RT’s Oct. 8: Gina Chavez Oct. 29: Mountain Heart
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: Bumpin’ the Mango Sept. 2: Kinchafoonee Cowboys Oct. 7: On the Border — the Ultimate Eagles Tribute 58
Meets weekly, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm St., Woodstock. Follow on Facebook.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 770-345-0600 // www.circuitwoodstock.com/events.
Held in person and on Facebook Live, the free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build start-up communities on a grassroots level. For upcoming events, visit the Fresh Start Cherokee Facebook page.
IN WDSTK
www.inwdstk.org.
Morning INfluence
Breakfast is served at the Morning INfluence the last Friday of every month, 8-9 a.m. Morning INfluence is a networking event, which includes a brief presentation focusing on updates given by Greater Woodstock on important issues or services offered that affect the community. RSVP is required; seating is limited.
YPOW AM
Join Young Professionals of Woodstock, 7-8:30 a.m., Thursdays at The Circuit, for coffee and networking that features an informal chat with a local leader. RSVP is required; seating is limited.
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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p o h S
Share the Love. Shop Local.
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Our mission statement is the measure by which we determine our editorial content each month: sharing hyperlocal, positive content with you. So, it made perfect sense to resurrect the Shop Local map we ran in the TowneLaker at the end of last year to encourage you to support local businesses. After so many challenges in recent years, our local retailers and restaurant owners will be so happy to see you, and you can leave with the satisfaction that you’ve been a part of contributing to the economic development of our amazing community. We’ll do our best to keep this map updated. If you see something missing, or have any ideas for supporting our community, please let us know by emailing edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com.
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• Zoe’s Kitchen • Pet Supermarket • Steven’s Nails • LongHorn • Chili’s • Tuesday Morning • Bullocks Wine & Spirits Warehouse
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• Keegan’s Irish Pub • Capri Nails • China Fun • Urban Renewal Consignment Boutique • La Parilla • Tuscany
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• Starbucks • Izumi Asian Bistro • Small Cakes • Smoothie King • Jersey Mike's Subs • Perfect Touch Nail Salon • K Pop Korean BBQ • Seoul Food • Ken Stanton Music • Tea Time • Johnny’s NY Style Pizza & Subs • SoHo Bagel • Sassy Paws Pet Boutique • Elite Nail Spa
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• Nature’s Corner Market • Peking & Tokyo
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• GameDay • Volcano Steak and Sushi • Peace Love and Pizza • Fashion Ten • L’Amour Nails
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• Mellow Mushroom • Nana Thai Eatery • Making Waves Salon & Brazillian Wax • Distinctive Lashes & Beauty Bar • Towne Lake Pharmacy • Pro Nail & Spa • Mr. G’s Cigar & Tobacco Shoppe • Your CBD Store • NY Style Deli & Pizza by Mansi
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• Family Tradition • GP Nails • Cancun Mexican • Song’s Garden
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• Goodwill • Dollar General • Big Smokeys BBQ & More • Hawks Nest Gaming • K9 & Kitty • JianKang Spa • Studio 55 Dance • A Food Mart • Spring’s Smoke Shop • Soo-Good Restaurant • Ol’ Time Barber
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• Paper.Scissors.Cake. • Bees Knees
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• Animal Atlanta • Superior Motorsports
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• The Butcher and A Baker • Donovan’s Irish Cobbler • El Ranchero • Sandy’s Nail Spa • BT Collectibles • Furniture Fashions • Wild Birds Unlimited
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• GoFoFa • El Pastor Birrieria and Taqueria
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
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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 TowneLaker magazine!
Advertisers August 2022
ACCOUNTING & TAXES Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
CHIROPRACTIC 47
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com
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AUTOMOTIVE Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
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9
44
LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org
13
DENTAL Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com
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Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com St. Joseph School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org
39
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT
BUSINESS SUPPORT Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
EDUCATION
BEAUTY Lissthetics Clinical Skincare 309-750-0997 www.lissthetics-skincare.com
10
CREDIT UNIONS
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext. 306 www.debranski.com
Nesnick Total Health 770-516-2323 www.nesnicktotalhealth.com
47
Paradise Rental Boats 11 678-737-3005 www.bestinboating.com/boat-rentals
Schmooza Palooza www.cherokeechamber.com
45
Woodstock Arts 678-494-4251 www.woodstockarts.org
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FITNESS/HEALTH R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
11
HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Big Oak Enterprises, LLC 678-721-4959
30
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
5
Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
7
Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com
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Dr. Fahrenheit HVAC 770-926-6773 www.drfahrenheithvac.com
19
Eastridge Plumbing 770-516-2977 www.eastridgeplumbing.com
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We have a place in the homes of our community.
For advertising rates and information | Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com 62
TOWNELAKER | August 2022
Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
39
PebbleStone 678-807-8618 www.pebblestonepros.com
37
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
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Scrappy's Junk Removal 678-330-9282 www.scrappysjunkremoval.com
5
That’s My Patio/That’s My Pergola www.thatmypatio.com www.thatsmypergola.com
47
Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
7
INSURANCE Alfa Insurance Jeff Beachler, 770-558-1612 www.alfainsurance.com
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LANDSCAPING Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
37
MOVING SERVICES Page Relocation
770-224-8184 www.pagerelocation.com
Cover, 32-33
OPTOMETRY Georgia Eye Partners 404-531-9988 www.gaeyepartners.com Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill 5 C: 678-634-5581 O: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Tomlinson Team 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 43 Woodstock/South Cherokee office 770-517-2150 www.woodstock.bhhsgeorgia.com Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
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Keller Williams, Ursula & Assoc. Back Cover Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com RE/MAX Town & Country Sarah Terrell 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
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Gyro Aegean Grill 770-485-5236 www.gyroaegengrillga.com
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES AbbyCare Inside Cover 404-549-6886 www.iloveabbycare.com
The Artists Next Door, LLC 678-622-1421 www.theartistsnextdoorllc.com
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SENIOR SERVICES St. George Village 678-987-0406 www.stgeorgevillage.org
Alpha & Omega Automotive, Inc
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678-483-5995 www.alpha-omega-auto.com
Country Financial Insurance 21 678-494-4211 ` www.countryfinancial.com/derek.good Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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J.D.'s Bar-B-Que
22
678-445-7730 www.jdsbbq.com
Legendary Renovations 20 678-592-6961 www.legendaryrenovationsinc.com Limbocker Law Firm, LLC
Paragon Accounting & Tax Solutions, LLC
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770-928-7229 www.paragonacountingandtax.com
Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 24 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com Pinnacle Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine
RETAILERS Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net
Readers' Choice
678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com
RESTAURANTS
PHOTOGRAPHERS Red Baryl Portraits 815-540-0936
Cherokee Women’s Health 19 Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
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770-926-9112 www.pinnacle-ortho.com
Po Boys Landscape Group 404-610-7004
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Quick-Pro Plumbing
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Residential Power Solutions
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678-478-1534 www.quickproplumbing.com 678-426-8206 www.rps-ga.net
Woodstock Funeral Home 24 and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com Yates & Co. CPA
770-591-8887 www.yatescpa.com
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“I am so very happy I found Ursula’s team! Stephanie and Maryann were my REALTORS ® . They are both not only super knowledgeable, but also warm and attentive. Despite their busy schedules, they made me feel like I was their only client. After going under contract, Kellie and Lovel kept us informed and on track through our closing…We briefly worked with Jason who exhibits the same qualities. Any future real estate endeavors will include Ursula’s team!”
Jim & Lisa
“We always love working with Jason and would be hard-pressed to ever consider another REALTOR ® in the Atlanta area.” Marnus & Lisa
“We would not have entrusted the sale of our home to anyone else. No one knows Towne Lake real estate like Ursula, and she works only with the best, from photographers to agents to closing attorneys. REALTOR, Alessandra was wonderful throughout the process - very knowledgeable and professional. All of the staff at Ursula & Associates are extremely responsive and helpful.”
Benny & Lisa
