8-23 Around Canton webfinal.pdf

On the Cover

Owner Keith Weathington and General Manager Jake Jones, along with the company’s technicians, meet the heating and air conditioning needs of customers, including commercial, residential, churches, lodges and a few national chains.

Pages 28 & 29

Cover photo by Brian Nejedly.

BEST FOR 2024 Around Canton

Bridal

Our poll will be ready for you to vote Oct. 1-Nov. 15 at www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com. Results will be posted Jan. 1 and published in the January issue of Around Canton.

What’s Coming

Circle of Friends is opening a second coffee shop — Flourish Café — in Hickory Flat, at 2864 E. Cherokee Drive. The nonprofit, which operates

Advertise With Us

Our business is your business. We succeed when you succeed. And our goal is to help community businesses thrive. Our marketing experts have experience on the national and international level. They’ll help you put together an advertising program that targets your market, and fits your needs, style and budget. Let us put our experience to work for you!

A 16,300-square-foot shopping center that will house seven tenants is planned for 130 Reinhardt College Parkway, near the new Cherokee High School. Developers of the Shops at Riverstone have earmarked the two end caps for family-friendly restaurants that will cater to the school and surrounding neighborhoods. Other potential tenants include serviceoriented businesses, such as a med spa, high-end dentist office, upscale hair salon or boutique fitness center. For information, contact Jimmy Davis with Sullivan Wickley at 470-237-2046 or jimmy@sullivanwickley.com.

The Rotary Club of Canton recently celebrated a successful year and welcomed its new leader, who has a unique connection to the organization. Francisco Lozano, the club’s new president, first joined the Canton club as part of its Georgia Rotary Student Program in 2002. From Mazatlán, Mexico, he attended classes at Reinhardt University for a year through the program and experienced American culture and hospitality through club meetings, his host family and the many club members with whom he developed friendships.

The club meets at noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at The Bluffs, or at off-site locations for community service projects. For more information, check Facebook or www.therotaryclubofcantonga.org.

Most tenants should be open by the 2024 holiday season.

Outgoing President Nicole Lawson Doll with Francisco Lozano.

Letter From the Editor

Is there anyone out there like me, an empty nester who misses her chicks being in the roost?? It hits home this time of year, when school starts and buses are rolling throughout the county. Several of my friends and I would console ourselves with a luxurious breakfast the first day of school, to keep us from wringing our hands and staring at the clock, waiting for the kids to get home. I don’t think I’ve ever said — correct me if I’m wrong, friends — that I can’t wait for August to come so the kids will be back at school. While I missed them terribly, I didn’t take the next step and homeschool. I had enough sense to know that would not be the best thing for my kids — or me!

I joined the staff of Aroundabout Local Media in 2012 when my youngest, Becca, went to college. I wanted a distraction from the echoes in the house. But I also was eager to bring my professional skills together in one job that made a difference in our community.

Eleven years later, I’m confident in saying that our magazines are well established as the leading community publications for Cherokee and Cobb counties. As a journalist, I wouldn’t print a statement like that without verification. While there’s been no formal study, I can tell you by calls I receive that each issue is highly anticipated, held onto throughout the

month and used as a guide for new and longtime residents of our community. I hope you’ll agree with our readers who say:

“I want to let you know how impressed I am by your local magazine. Being new to the area, it is packed with so much information and variety …” - Peggy L.

“Full of positivity and visual interest, the magazines are first-rate.” - Patti B.

“I read your magazine cover to cover every month.” - Marjorie B.

This month, we’re introducing you to your neighbors who’ve also found their niche and serve their community well. You’ll find the Readers’ Choice 2023 winners listed on Pages 1619. These business owners and entrepreneurs have worked hard to earn such recognition.

Learn how to connect with others who share your interests, from boating and Jeeping to disc golf and, yes, chickens, on Pages 36-37. Read how Harvee White’s background uniquely qualifies her to serve as education manager for History Cherokee. Meet her on Page 26.

As executive editor, I want to hear from you. Tell me what you love and what you’d like to see more of. After all, we are Your Community. Your Magazine. And you can quote me on that!

America’s Community Magazine

Volume 11, Issue 3

PUBLISHER

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVERTISING AND INTEGRATED MEDIA

Jennifer Coleman | 470-263-8414 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

PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR

Michelle McCulloch | 770-615-3307 michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com

CONTROLLER

Denise Griffin | 770-615-3315 denise@aroundaboutmagazines.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com

DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIST

Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com

CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER

Michelle Smith michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com

COMMUNITY RELATIONS SPECIALIST

Amanda Bowen | 678-348-0378 amandabowen@aroundaboutmagazines.com

COPY EDITORS

Bill King, Eliza Somers

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. (ALM) publishes five hyperlocal magazines serving the communities of Canton, Woodstock, Towne Lake, Acworth and Kennesaw. Approximately 16,000 free copies are distributed monthly in each community, through direct bulk mail and first class mail; approximately 500 copies are available in magazine racks placed around each community.

Around Canton 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: Around Canton, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims

to the validity of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2023.

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

Ribbon Cuttings

City of Canton

110 Academy St., Canton 770-704-1500 // www.cantonga.gov

1. Heritage Park Playground 508 Riverstone Parkway, Canton

2. Boling Park Basketball Court Mural 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton

Cherokee Chamber 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 // www.cherokeechamber.com

3. The Gathering Board Co. 2800 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite 100 Holly Springs thegatheringboard.co

4. Cherokee Angel Senior Care 326 Heights Place, Canton cherokeeangelsc.com

5. Holly Springs Veterans Memorial Hickory Road Roundabout

6. Hampton Inn by Hilton - Canton 710 Transit Ave. hilton.com/en/hotels/atlcnhx-hamptonatlanta-canton

7. Staples 108 Riverstone Parkway, Canton staples.com

Canton IN town

Canton Farmers Market

Through Sept. 2, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays, Brown Park

For updates, follow the Canton Farmers Market Facebook page.

Trivia Night on the Green

Aug. 3, 7 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

On Thursdays, gather your dream team and compete for first-, secondand third-place prizes. www. etowahmill.com/events

Live Music on the Green

Aug. 4, 7-9 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

On Fridays, enjoy live music. Lineup to be announced. www.etowahmill.com/events

Summer Nights Concert

Aug. 5, 7-9 p.m., The Mill on Etowah Jam to your favorite ’80s hits with Guardians of the Jukebox. www.etowahmill.com/events

Rock and Roll Revival

Aug. 6, 7 p.m., Canton Theatre

Hope’s Anchor and Neena Elliott will perform. www.hopesanchorband.com, https://neenaelliottmusic.com

Tuesday Market

Aug. 8, 3-7 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Every Tuesday, shop products from local creators, bakers, butchers, farmers and more. www.etowahmill.com/events

Creedence Clearwater Revival Experience

Aug. 12, 8:30-10:30 p.m., Canton Theatre Georgia Players Guild will perform the band’s timeless songs. www.cantonga.gov/events

Terrific Tuesday

Aug. 22, 6-9 p.m., downtown Bumpin' The Mango will be performing at the First Friday-style event. www.cantonga.gov

A Tribute to the British Invasion

Aug. 26, 8-10 p.m., Canton Theatre

The Invaders will perform, celebrating The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Animals, The Who and more. www.cantonga.gov/events

Business is Boomin’ Exhibit

Through Aug. 27, Cherokee County History Center

The temporary exhibit explores the various businesses and business communities that defined Cherokee County's history in the mid- to late 20th century.

https://historycherokee.org

Fall Cornhole League

Aug. 28, 6:30-9:10 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Join the fall league Mondays on the green. Registration ends Aug. 21 www.etowahmill.com/events

“The Curious Savage”

Sept. 1-3 and 8-10, Canton Theatre

Directed by Jeannie and Wally Hinds, the play tells the story of a wealthy woman who is committed to a mental institution by her greedy stepchildren. www.cherokeetheatre.org

Chili Cook-Off

Sept. 9, noon-5 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

The fundraiser for Project Hero will take place in the gravel lot at The Mill’s entrance. For more details, email info@weareprojecthero.org. www.etowahmill.com/events

Natural Wine and Jazz Festival

Sept. 23, 5-8 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Taste 25 wines, enjoy Jazz music and mingle with importers and distributors. www.etowahmill.com/ events

Canton First Fridays

Great food and live music 6-9 p.m. downtown. Check for updates at www.facebook.com/CantonGAFirstFriday.

Elton Live: Aug. 4

Purple Madness: Sept. 1

On the Border: Oct. 6

Tom DiMucci, Carlos Izaguirre and Bruce Rawley, aka The Mechanic, at a First Friday event.

From Cherokee to Germany

Caleb Guy Represents the United States in 2023 Special Olympics World Games

BY JESSICA FORRESTER

In August 2022, after kayaking for only about a year, Cherokee County native Caleb Guy found out he was going to the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Germany, where he earned three silver medals in kayaking in June.

Among 7,000 athletes, from around 170 countries, he competed against kayakers from Costa Rica, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland and Lithuania.

The honor means so much to Caleb and his parents, Mollie and Chris Guy, who are educators at Holly Springs STEM Academy. Caleb was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth and has been competing in Special Olympics since he was 8 years old. The world medalist recently celebrated his four-year work anniversary with Chick-fil-A, at the Canton Marketplace location, and he and his family are heavily involved with Cherokee County Special Olympics (CCSO).

It was through CCSO that Caleb was nominated to go to the World Games. When Special

Olympics Georgia reached out for nominations, CCSO program co-coordinators Dave Martinez and Amy Aenchbacher wrote recommendations for Caleb. And CCSO Coach Ben Farist, along with Mollie and Chris, were able to show support for him in Berlin, thanks largely to fundraising efforts in our community.

At the World Games, June 17-25, the 20-year-old was one of five kayakers from the United States and the only male Team USA athlete in the kayaking event. Raven Allen of Augusta also represented Georgia, and she was Caleb’s partner in tandem kayaking, in which they secured a silver medal. In addition, Caleb won silver medals in the 200-meter and 500-meter men’s singles kayaking events.

Mollie and Chris always have said Caleb can do anything he sets his mind to, and his accomplishments are even more impressive, considering he has been kayaking for only about two years.

CCSO first launched its kayaking team, Crazy Cayakers, a couple of years ago, and that’s when Caleb’s passion for the sport began. He has competed and earned medals at the state level in basketball, soccer and kayaking, and he’s also been involved with tennis, bowling and track.

Caleb lives in Ball Ground with his parents, and he attends Transition Academy, where he receives vocational training and develops life skills. As for what’s next, Caleb plans to continue kayaking, and he has his sights set on bringing home the gold at the 2027 Special Olympics World Games in Australia.

Caleb’s Perspective

“I had a great time in Germany with my team and my coaches. I liked making new friends, but my favorite part was the races. I’m really proud of how I did. I’m glad my friends and family got to watch me on Facebook (facebook.com/JCalebGuy). I hope I can do it again!”

Caleb poses in his kayak after finding out he is going to Germany.

Caleb Guy, left, and Raven Allen are elated by their silver medal win in the 200-meter tandem kayaking event in June.

Parent Perspectives

“Our experience in Germany gave Caleb the opportunity to demonstrate a level of independence beyond anything he had ever done before. He spent two weeks traveling at the international level. That is quite an accomplishment! It also gave him the chance to really push himself to see what he could accomplish. He was competing against athletes who had earned gold medals at their national games, so he had to work really hard for those silver medals!

“There is nothing like seeing the U.S. delegation in the opening ceremony and thinking, that’s my kid down there! But the moment that really got me the most was when he was on the medal stand for his first silver, and I was telling him how proud I was, and he gave me the little heart symbol with his hands. I just lost it at that point.

“I hope that Caleb’s experience has really brought our local Special Olympics organization to the center of the community’s attention. It is completely a volunteer organization and doesn’t charge athletes to participate. As Chris said, we could not have gone without community support, and Special Olympics can’t provide these opportunities without the community, either.”

— Mollie Guy

“The Special Olympics experience is one of incredible generosity by people all over the world. Our very opportunity in going was only possible due to the generosity of those who provided us with the means to attend. It was such a joy to see Caleb participate and do well in his events. I was so proud of the results of his hard work and perseverance.

“The wonderful thing about the Special Olympics, though, goes beyond just Caleb and his success. Sharing in the joy of people from all around the world as they celebrated the achievements of their special-needs participants was amazing. Seeing the love and enthusiasm demonstrated by so many was heartwarming. In talking to one of the German volunteers after an event, he made the comment, ‘We in Germany often think you in the USA overdo too much, but not this. This you got right. This is worth going all out for because this truly makes a difference. This brings people together in caring about others besides ourselves. The world needs more of this.’”

— Chris Guy

Get Involved With CCSO!

1. Be a coach. There are new sports and new teams starting every season. You don’t have to be an expert; you just have to love working with the athletes.

2. Be a unified partner. This term means you compete alongside the athletes. There are opportunities for youth and adults in multiple sports.

3. Be a volunteer. Even if you aren’t ready to step into coaching, there always is a need for extra people to help with paperwork, uniforms and crowd control.

4. Donate to CCSO. Every dollar goes to supporting the athletes and the program.

5. Participate in fundraisers as a sponsor or participant. CCSO hosts an annual golf tournament, and funds raised benefit the more than 200 special-needs athletes in Cherokee County. The fourth annual event was held in Canton in July. Raffle item donations as well as golfers are always needed.

Other organizations hold fundraisers to benefit CCSO, as well. The most wellknown is the Chick-fil-A 5K, which is set for Aug. 12 at Etowah River Park in Canton. Sign up to run, walk or be a ghost runner at cherokeecounty5k.com.

Caleb, front right, with Team USA, was able to sightsee as well as kayak with his teammates in Germany.

The Guys celebrate Caleb’s accomplishments in Germany.

4 Ways to Help Students, Families

BY SUSANNAH MACKAY

It’s back-to-school season! It may be hard to give up the freedom of summer, but there’s something exciting about a new box of crayons or a set of clean notebooks. Such simple things can make a big difference. For some, school supplies are luxuries, and heading back to school can be overwhelming and stressful. Too many children in our community don’t have stable homes or access to food, much less the clothes and pencils they need to succeed. But you can help! There are several projects on justserve.org that can enable students to start the school year strong.

1. Donate school supplies. Support SimpleNeeds

GA’s school-focused programs: Uniforms for Excellence, Shoe Them Love and a general school supply drive. Each of these programs are high-impact and easy to support. (bit.ly/46E1QwY)

2. Help dress those in need. Sort and hang donated clothing at House of Hope North Georgia in Canton. This is a great opportunity for people of all ages, even children, to help make an impact in the lives of students who want to make their best first impression at school. (bit.ly/3ObcqEN)

3. Donate books. Cobb Collaborative has an ongoing initiative to promote literacy and unite families, educators and the community. You can donate new or gently used books locally, or ship them to Cobb Collaborative using its Amazon Wish List. (bit.ly/3IJ8gzZ)

4. Gather items for Together for Families.

Check out this listing for general instructions on how to get started hosting a drive. Then, choose the theme of your drive. One person can make a greater difference by involving friends. (bit.ly/44yckMq)

Be sure to check out these great projects — and more! — on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe Georgia Volunteers public Facebook group. It never has been easier to make a difference in someone’s life.

Justserve.org is a free, international website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations and service opportunities. There are local representatives in our community. If you run a nonprofit, 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 just to go out and serve!

Start Out Like You Can Hold Out

BY JEREMY ISAACS

When I was a kid, the start of school was such an exciting time. I always got one new pair of shoes and, of course, new school supplies. There was something about the new supplies that convinced me I was going to be a much better and more organized student that year. Honestly, I usually was, at least for a few weeks. I did all my homework, kept all my papers organized in the correct notebook, and my book bag was well maintained.

However, somewhere along the way, I would begin to revert back to my old patterns. My papers weren’t in the correct notebook, which meant I couldn’t always find them. My bag had crumpled papers, upside-down books and lunch leftovers alongside my homework. Even though my mom constantly reminded me to “start out like you can hold out,” I just struggled to sustain how I started.

As an adult, maybe you’ve seen this same pattern play out in things like dieting or budgeting. New habits and behaviors take a lot of work and discipline to replace who we’ve always been with who we want to be. Thankfully,

the Bible gives us great hope in Philippians 1:6, when the apostle Paul said, “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.”

When we allow God to do his work in our lives, he doesn’t tire or wear down from the task at hand. As we are willing, he continues to shape and mold us into a reflection of his son, Jesus. Our habits can change, our thoughts can be renewed and our behavior can shift as the old “us” becomes a “new creation.”

As summer fades, school begins, the leaves change colors and the temperature cools, my prayer for you is to allow God to start a new work in you that he will see through in your life.

Jeremy Isaacs is the lead pastor of Generations Church in Canton. He and his wife, Corrie, have been married almost 20 years and have four teenagers.

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.

READERS’ CHOICE 2023

IT’S TIME TO Celebrate!

EDUCATION & PERSONAL SERVICES

ACTIVE 55+ COMMUNITY

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF THIS YEAR’S POLL

We are excited to celebrate you and the contributions you make to our community. We know you’re proud and ready to announce your success!

If you won your category, we have prepared a few items to help you celebrate:

• Window cling

• Certificate

• Digital award graphic to post on your website, Facebook page or other social media outlets

To receive these items, email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines. com with the following information:

• Business name and mailing address

• Contact person’s email address and phone number

It’s essential for us to have your contact information so we can make sure you have all you need to celebrate properly.

Another way to share your good news — and thank the community for voting for you — is through a Thank You ad. For more information on ads, email michelle.smith@ aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Winner: The Arbor at BridgeMill

Second Place: Soleil Laurel Canyon

Runner Up: The Lodge at Bridgemill

ADULT DAY CARE/RESPITE

Winner: Empower Cherokee of GA., Inc.

ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE

Winner: Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care - BridgeMill

Second Place: The Arbor at BridgeMill

Runner Up: Cameron Hall of Canton

BARBER SHOP

Winner: The Little Barbershop

Second Place: Gary’s Barber Shop

Runner Up: Barker-Jackson Master Barbers at Canton Marketplace

DAY CARE/PRESCHOOL

Winner: Primrose School of Sixes Road

Second Place: Little Peoples Corner Day Care

Runner Up: Little Red School House

DAY SPA/ESTHETICIANS

Winner: Practically Perfect

Second Place: The Beauty Barn

Runner Up: Revive Day Spa & Boutique

EDUCATION SERVICES/TUTORING

Winner: Canton Homeschool Resources

Second Place: Mathnasium

Runner Up: Empower Cherokee of GA., Inc.

HAIR SALON

Winner: Jyl Craven Hair Design

Second Place: Clark Salon & Spa / Floatation & Contrast Therapy

Runner Up: Studio 5 Salon & Spa

MASSAGE

Winner: LaVida Massage

Second Place: Massage Envy

Runner Up: Gentle Force Integrative Health

NAIL SALON

Winner: Lush Nail Bar

Second Place: Classy Nails & Spa

Runner Up: N T Nails

PRIVATE SCHOOL

Winner: The Haven Academy

Second Place: Community Christian School

Runner Up: Mission Academy

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR

Winner: Melissa Wright - Primrose School of Sixes

Second Place: Amanda Thompson - Primrose School of Sixes

Runner Up: Leah Smith - The Haven Academy

SCHOOL TEACHER

Winner: Shari Alhadeff - The Haven Academy

Second Place: Lois Adams - Primrose School of Sixes

Runner Up: Amanda Thompson - Primrose School of Sixes

TANNING SALON

Winner: Glow Tan and Boutique

Second Place: Sun City Tanning

Runner Up: Toast Tanning Salon

FOOD & DRINK

ASIAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Yoon Sushi

Second Place: Canton House Chinese Restaurant

Runner Up: Golden China

BAKERY/DESSERTS

Winner: Ray’s Donuts

Second Place: Giggle Monsters Craft Donuts Bells

Ferry

Runner Up: Bananas and Beehives

BARBECUE RESTAURANT

Winner: Four 41 South BBQ Co.

Second Place: Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q - Canton

Runner Up: Queenie’s Restaurant, Bar & Events

BREAKFAST/BISCUITS

Winner: Bizarre Coffee

Second Place: Keithsburg Cafe

Runner Up: Atomic Biscuit

BREWERY/BEER/WINE

Winner: Reformation Brewery - Canton

Second Place: Big Door Vineyards

Runner Up: Stout’s Growlers & Taproom

BRUNCH

Winner: Eggs Up Grill

Second Place (tied): Atomic Biscuit

Second Place (tied): J. Christopher’s

BURGERS

Winner: Riverstone Corner Bistro

Second Place: Canyons Fresh Grill - Canton

Runner Up: Community Burger

CATERING

Winner: The Gathering Board

Second Place: Paula’s Zzerts Catering & Natural Baked

Goods

Runner Up: Prestige Catering

COFFEE/TEA SHOP

Winner: Alma Coffee

Second Place: Bizarre Coffee

Runner Up: Barrel House Coffee Co.

DONUTS

Winner: Ray’s Donuts

Second Place: Giggle Monsters Craft Donuts Mill on Etowah

Runner Up: Giggle Monsters Craft Donuts Bells Ferry

FINE DINING RESTAURANT

Winner: J Michael’s Prime

Second Place: Downtown Kitchen

Runner Up: Goin’ Coastal

ICE CREAM/FROZEN DESSERT

Winner: A Cone to Pick

Second Place: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

Runner Up: Dairy Queen - Reinhardt College Pkwy.

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Mamma Onesta’s Italian Restaurant

Second Place: Provino’s Italian Restaurant

Runner Up: Alessandro’s Italian Cafe & Pizzeria

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Winner: La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant

Second Place: Nuevos Amigos Cocina Mexicana

Runner Up: Puerta de Oro Taqueria & Cantina

NEIGHBORHOOD FAVORITE

Winner: Bizarre Coffee

Second Place: Riverstone Corner Bistro

Runner Up: The Gathering Board

PIZZERIA - DELIVERY/DINE IN

Winner: Perrotta’s Pizza

Second Place: Brooklyn Joe’s

Runner Up: Saporitos Pizza

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

Winner: J Michael’s Prime

Second Place: Downtown Kitchen

Runner Up: Mamma Onesta’s Italian Restaurant

SANDWICHES/DELI

Winner: Bizarre Coffee

Second Place: Jersey Mike’s Subs - Riverstone Village

Runner Up: Panera Bread

SEAFOOD

Winner: Goin’ Coastal

Second Place: Salty Mule

Runner Up: Dive Southern Coastal Kitchen

TAKEOUT

Winner: Four 41 South BBQ Co.

Second Place: Canyons Fresh Grill - Canton

Runner Up: Joe’s Lonestar Tacos

WINGS

Winner: Buffalo’s

Second Place: Sidelines Grille

Runner Up: Wicked Wings

HOME & AUTO

AUTOMOTIVE - CAR WASH

Winner: K&B Mobile Car Wash

Second Place: BUBBA BRUSH

Runner Up: Mister Car Wash

AUTOMOTIVE - EMISSIONS TESTING

Winner: Rick’s Pro Emissions-Tires

Second Place: Vaughn’s Exxon

Runner Up: Hickory Flat Emissions

AUTOMOTIVE - GENERAL SERVICE

Winner: Killian Automotive

Second Place: Chuck’s Auto Repair

Runner Up: Bridgemill Auto Care

AUTOMOTIVE - SALES

Winner: Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Second Place: Cherokee County Toyota

Runner Up: Cherokee Auto Group LLC

AUTOMOTIVE - TIRE SALES & SERVICE

Winner: Nichelson Auto Repair & Tire

Second Place: Cherokee Tire Service

Runner Up: Canton Tire & Wheel

AUTOMOTIVE - TOWING SERVICE/ROADSIDE

ASSISTANCE

Winner: Cherokee Tire Service

GOLF CART SALES & REPAIR

Winner: Golf Cars of Canton

Second Place: Cherokee Golf Carts

HOME SERVICES - CARPET CLEANING

Winner: Citrusolution Carpet Cleaning North Cherokee

Second Place: Spot on Carpet Cleaners

HOME SERVICES - CLEANING

Winner: HRC Services LLC

Second Place: The Meticulous Maid

Runner Up: Live Clean Inc.

HOME SERVICES - ELECTRICIAN

Winner: ServiceWise Electric

Second Place: Thomas Electrical Solutions

Runner Up: Johnson Electric

HOME SERVICES - FLOORING

Winner: Complete Hardwood Floors

HOME SERVICES - GARAGE DOOR REPAIR

Winner: Covenant Garage Doors Inc.

HOME SERVICES - HEATING & AIR

Winner: Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling

Second Place: Fritts Heating and Air

Runner Up: Herndon Heating & Air Conditioning Co

HOME SERVICES - HOME INSPECTION

Winner: Pillar to Post - Canton

HOME SERVICES - IMPROVEMENT/REMODELING

Winner: Creative PoolScape

Second Place: Troy Sims Construction

Runner Up: Southeast Restoration of North Metro Atlanta

HOME SERVICES - INTERIOR DESIGN

Winner: Laura Sears Interiors

Second Place: Southernite Interiors

Runner Up: Greek Girl Builds Interior Design LLC

HOME SERVICES - JUNK REMOVAL

Winner: Your Junk Guys

Second Place: Affordable Junk Removal

Runner Up: H & W Hauling and Grading

HOME SERVICES - LANDSCAPING/LAWN CARE

Winner: Hudson Landscape Services

Second Place: Fidencio Rodriguez Landscaping

Runner Up: ZenScapes

HOME SERVICES - PAINTING

Winner: BlueMoon Painting & Design, Niki Foley

Second Place: Precise Painting & Remodeling

Runner Up: Paragon Painting Atlanta

HOME SERVICES - PEST CONTROL (EXTERMINATING)

Winner: Arrow Exterminators

Second Place: Defender Pest Protection

Runner Up: Canton Termite & Pest Control

HOME SERVICES - PLUMBING

Winner: Ghorley & Ghorley Plumbing

Second Place: Heritage Plumbing Inc

Runner Up: Bryan Plumbing Services

HOME SERVICES - PRESSURE WASHING/EXTERIOR CLEANING

Winner: ClearView Window Cleaning and Pressure Washing LLC

Second Place: Scrubs Softwash - Brock Tilley

Runner Up: K&B Pressure Washing and Staining

HOME SERVICES - ROOFING

Winner: Rock House Roofing

Second Place: Dynamic Installations

Runner Up: Dynamic Roofing & Renovations

MOTORCYCLE SALES & REPAIR

Winner: Speed Standard

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTANTS/CPA

Winner: Cherokee CPA Services, PC

Second Place: James Cannon, CPA

Runner Up: S & S Accounting

ATTORNEY

Winner: Burns Smith Law, P.C.

Second Place: Geiger Legal Group, LLC

Runner Up: Atlanta Adoption & Family Law

BANK/CREDIT UNION

Winner: Credit Union of Georgia

Second Place: LGE Community Credit Union

Runner Up: Synovus Bank

BUSINESS SUPPORT - ADMINISTRATIVE (PRINTING, STAFFING, ETC.)

Winner: Doss Printing Service

Second Place: The UPS Store #4434 - Cumming Hwy.

Runner Up: Sull Graphics

BUSINESS SUPPORT - MARKETING

Winner: Teal Marketing, LLC

Second Place: Trixie Creative

Runner Up: Allegro Business Products

BUSINESS SUPPORT - NETWORKING GROUP

Winner: Cherokee Connect

Second Place: Cherokee Chamber Of Commerce

Runner Up: Canton Business Club

BUSINESS SUPPORT - TECHNOLOGY (IT/WEB SUPPORT)

Winner: Kalon Creative

Second Place: Delphi Global Technology

DRY CLEANERS

Winner: Plaza Cleaners

Second Place: Love Your Clothes

Runner Up: Main Street Dry Cleaners

ELECTRONIC DEVICE REPAIR

Winner: uBreakiFix

Second Place: iPhone Repair Canton

FUNERAL HOME

Winner: Darby Funeral Home

Second Place: Sosebee Funeral Home

Runner Up: South Canton Funeral Home & Chapel

INSURANCE

Winner: Providence Insurance Group

Second Place: Kelly Scott - Allstate Insurance

Runner Up: Fowler Insurance

INVESTMENT FIRM/FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Winner: Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Sarah

K Kendall

Second Place: J. Lyndon Financial

Runner Up: Five Talents Wealth Management

MORTGAGE LENDER

Winner: Silverton Mortgage

Second Place: Misty Arisohn - American Financial Network

Runner Up: The Dean Team - Homeowners Financial Group

PHOTOGRAPHER

Winner: Captured Moments by Cindy

Second Place: Sky Simone Photography + Film

Runner Up (tied): Darby Rose Photography

Runner Up (tied): Victoria Lee Photography

REALTOR (REAL ESTATE BROKER)

Winner: The Carl Hawthorne Team

Second Place: Zack Bobo, ERA Sunrise Realty

Runner Up: Maria Sims Group powered by Keller Williams Realty Partners

RELOCATION SERVICES

Winner: Page Relocation

Second Place: Two Men and a Truck

Runner Up: Canton GA Movers Moving Company

VIDEOGRAPHER

Winner: Atlanta Drone Pro

Second Place: Burns Videography

Runner Up: A Lewis Films

WEDDING/EVENT PLANNER

Winner: Fendley Farmstead

Second Place: Lewallen Farms

Runner Up: Natalie Durham Events

RECREATION & FITNESS

ART STUDIO/GALLERY

Winner: Chalk Tales

Second Place: Menagerie on Main

Runner Up: Doodle Bug Creations

CIVIC GROUP

Winner: Canton Rotary Club

Second Place: SORBA Woodstock - Blankets Creek

Mountain Bike Trails

COMMUNITY FESTIVAL, EVENT OR VENUE

Winner: First Fridays

Second Place: Riverfest

Runner Up: Holiday Lights at Cherokee Veterans Park

DANCE STUDIO

Winner: Hickory Flat Dance Academy

Second Place: The Theodora Dance Conservatory

Runner Up: Aspire Dance Arts

EQUESTRIAN

Winner: WarAngel Farms Rescue & Rehabilitation Inc.

Second Place: Five Star Hunters

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Winner: The Mill on Etowah

Second Place: Cherokee Lanes

Runner Up: AMC CLASSIC Riverstone 15

FITNESS/HEALTH CLUB

Winner: Twisted Cycle Sixes Rd.

Second Place: Grit Life Fitness

Runner Up: STRONGSIDE - Canton

GOLF COURSE/CLUB

Winner: Callahan Golf Links

Second Place: BridgeMill Athletic Club

Runner Up: Fairways of Canton Golf Club | Stratus Kitchen & Bar

GYMNASTICS/CHEER CENTER

Winner: 360 Tumble and Gymnastics, LLC

Second Place: Canton Gymnastics Center

Runner Up: TAG Athletics

MARTIAL ARTS

Winner: Holly Springs Tiger-Rock Martial Arts

Second Place: Canton Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Runner Up: Choi Kwang Do Martial Arts Canton

PARTY RENTAL

Winner: Anderson Air Party Rentals

Second Place: Party City

PERSONAL TRAINER/SWIM INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Joshua Keenum

Second Place: Autumn Lynn’s Swimming Lessons

Runner Up: Dawn Mitchell - Gentle Force Integrative Health

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

Winner: MUST Ministries Client Services, Cherokee

Second Place: Cherokee County Animal Shelter

Runner Up: The Children’s Haven

SPORTS LEAGUE

Winner: Elev8 Fight League

Second Place: Hoop Heaven Georgia

Runner Up: Wood Elite Skillz Training

TRAVEL AGENCY

Winner: Katie Rosser Dream Vacations

Second Place: Jessica Manton - Travelmation

Runner Up: Partners Through Travel with Allie Hill

RETAIL & PETS

ANTIQUE STORE

Winner: Cotton Mill Exchange

Second Place (tied): Antique Village Mall

Second Place (tied): Simply Ola’s

APPLIANCE/FURNITURE STORE

Winner: Cotton Mill Exchange

Second Place: Woodstock Mattress Outlet

Runner Up: Southernite Interiors

BICYCLE SALES & REPAIR

Winner: Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop

Second Place: Out Spokin’ Bicycles

BOUTIQUE/CLOTHING

Winner: Cotton Mill Exchange

Second Place: B. Loved

Runner Up: Fashion Ten Canton

CONSIGNMENT/THRIFT STORE

Winner: Once Upon A Child

Second Place: The SERV Store

Runner Up: Fun Finds & Designs

FLORIST

Winner: South Canton Florist

Second Place: The Flower Shoppe by 89th & Autumn

Runner Up: Canton Waleska Flowers & Gifts

GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY

Winner: Lowe’s Home Improvement

Second Place: Cloud Supply

Runner Up: The Home Depot

GIFTS/HOME DECOR

Winner: Cotton Mill Exchange

Second Place: Chamberhouse

Runner Up: Three Sisters Gifts and Home Accents

JEWELER

Winner: Indulgence Fine Jewelry

Second Place: Canton Jewelry

Runner Up: River Fine Jewelry

LIQUOR STORE

Winner: Canton Wine & Spirits Warehouse

Second Place: Uncle Jack’s Spirits

Runner Up: One Stop Package Depot Inc.

PET - BOARDING

Winner: Savvy Paws Pet Resort

Second Place: Riverstone Animal Hospital

Runner Up: Pet Play Place

PET - DOG TRAINING

Winner: The Canine Ranch

Second Place: Scooter Dog Training

Runner Up: Georgia K9 National Training Center

PET - GROOMING

Winner: Savvy Paws Pet Resort

Second Place: Amy’s Grooming Salon (Holly Springs)

Runner Up: Canton Pet Spa

PET - SITTING

Winner: Sit Play Stay, LLC

Second Place: Bones Bed Bath Biscuits & More

PET - SUPPLIES

Winner: Bridgemill Pets

Second Place: Top Dogs Pet Boutique

Runner Up: PetSmart

PET - VETERINARIAN

Winner: Express Vets Canton

Second Place: Hickory Flat Animal Hospital

Runner Up: Harmony Animal Hospital

SPECIALTY FOODS/NUTRITION

Winner: Nutrition 140

Second Place: Canton Nutrition North

Runner Up: Jones General Market & Shop

WELLNESS

AUDIOLOGY

Winner: Northwest ENT and Allergy CenterReinhardt College Pkwy.

Second Place: Beltone Hearing Aid Center

CARDIOLOGY

Winner: Northside Heart - Canton

Second Place: Heart and Vascular Care

Runner Up: Ernesto Hernandez MD - Wellstar

CBD MERCHANT

Winner: Canton CBD

Second Place: Your CBD Store | SUNMED - Hickory Flat

Runner Up: Good CBD Shop Canton

CHIROPRACTIC

Winner: DT Chiropractic

Second Place: Gentle Force Chiropractic and Wellness

Center

Runner Up: Holly Springs Chiropractic and Massage

COUNSELING/PSYCHOLOGY

Winner: Canton Counseling

Second Place: With A Child’s Heart Behavioral Health Center

Runner Up: Georgia Neurobehavioral Associates

DENTAL (NOT PEDIATRIC)

Winner: BridgeMill Dentistry

Second Place: Knox Bridge Dental Care - Nick Kirkpatrick

DMD, Ricky Patel DMD

Runner Up: Swords and Phelps Dentistry

DERMATOLOGY

Winner: Marietta Dermatology & the Skin Cancer Center

Second Place: Georgia Mountain Dermatology

Runner Up: Goodman Dermatology

ENT/ALLERGY CENTER - EAR, NOSE & THROAT

Winner: Northwest ENT and Allergy Center

Second Place: Atlanta Allergy & Asthma

Runner Up: Southern ENT Specialists

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Winner: GI Specialists of Georgia

Second Place: Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

Runner Up: Dr. Michael Perrino

GENERAL PRACTICE

Winner: Prestige Medical Group

Second Place: Medical Associates of North Georgia - Main Office

Runner Up: Piedmont Physicians of Canton

GENERAL SURGERY

Winner: Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates

- Canton

Second Place: Meridian Surgical - Dr. Anuj K. Dua, MD

IMAGING SERVICES

Winner: Northside Hospital Cherokee

Second Place: Wellstar Cherokee Health Park

Runner Up: Sweet Pea 3D/4D Elective Ultrasound

LUNG AND SLEEP SPECIALTY

Winner: Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists

Second Place: Medical Associates of North Georgia - Main Office

Runner Up: North Georgia Pulmonary Medicine - Tamim M. Kharrat, MD

MEDICAL SERVICES - OTHER

Winner: Laureate Medical Group-Canton Office

Second Place: Georgia Cancer Specialists

Runner Up: Medical Care of Georgia PC - Kessler

Alexander, MD

OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY

Winner: Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Second Place: N. Georgia OB/GYN Specialists

Runner Up: Roswell OB/GYN

OPTOMETRY/OPHTHALMOLOGY

Winner: Marietta Eye Clinic

Second Place: Woolfson Eye Institute - Canton

Runner Up: MyEyeDr.

ORTHODONTICS

Winner: Trotter & Patel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Second Place: Smith Smile Orthodontics

Runner Up: Smile Doctors Orthodontics - Canton

ORTHOPEDICS

Winner: Pinnacle Orthopaedics

Second Place: Northside Hospital Orthopedic InstituteSports Medicine - Canton

Runner Up: Resurgens Orthopaedics

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Winner: Medical Associates of North GeorgiaMain Office

Second Place: Summit Spine and Joint Centers

Runner Up: Jordan Tate, M.D., M.P.H.

PEDIATRIC DENTAL

Winner: Cherokee Children’s Dentistry

Second Place: Trotter & Patel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Runner Up: Nia Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

PEDIATRICS

Winner: Northside Cherokee Pediatrics

- Holly Springs

Second Place: D V Pediatrics

PHARMACY

Winner: Northside Pharmacy

Second Place: Publix Pharmacy at Hickory Flat Village

Runner Up: Hickory Drugs

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Winner: Pinnacle Orthopaedics & Sports

Second Place: Resurgens Orthopaedics

Runner Up: PT Solutions of Free Home

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT/NURSE PRACTITIONER/CNA

Winner: Bethany Lill, PA-C - Pinnacle

Orthopaedics

Second Place: Sasha Milks, NP

Runner Up: Angie S. Bradley, PA-C - Pinnacle Orthopaedics

PODIATRY

Winner: Pinnacle Orthopaedics: Foot & Ankle

Runner Up: Village Podiatry Centers - Canton

Homeless Coalition Offers Relief to 200-Plus

BY TRICIA GRINDEL

There are about 200 people in Cherokee County experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity and struggling to get back on their feet, according to Marianne Butler, executive director of the Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County (HCCC). The nonprofit is a partnership of six local churches — Canton First, Fields Chapel, Hickory Flat, Liberty Hill and Waleska United Methodist churches and The Way Woodstock — working to provide relief and restoration for these individuals.

Although 200 is the documented number, according to a 2022 county study, Butler said this number likely is underestimated. The U.S. Census Bureau reported there were more than 280,000 people living in our county in 2022. Finding and counting people experiencing homelessness is difficult, and their stories are as varied as they are sad.

Susan, a single mother of two, was evicted from her apartment within a week after getting behind in her rent. Rolly was just released from prison with a bus ticket and a list of resources; he has no family willing to take him in, no phone and no transportation. Rayna, who is pregnant, lost her job and her housing. She found a place for her two children, but she has been sleeping in her van, which is where she felt her baby’s first kick.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Butler said, “especially when children are involved. This is an often-forgotten segment of our society. Most people can’t imagine — and don’t think about — people who are experiencing homelessness.

“Many think people lose their housing because of addiction or mental illness or some personal flaw, like laziness. While that is occasionally true, people become unhoused for all kinds of reasons.”

Some have jobs that don’t pay enough to cover the high cost of rent, Butler said. Others want to work but have difficulty finding jobs without a permanent address, clean clothes or child care. Some women lose their housing because they’re escaping abusive relationships. High inflation, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has compounded the challenges for people who already were

living paycheck to paycheck. When their car breaks down or a family emergency arises, they often have few or no options.

Founded in January 2020, HCCC has developed a three-phase program to address housing insecurity in the county.

• Phase I. Operation Roof is a collaborative referral program that provides up to a seven-night stay at a local motel. In addition to a roof over their heads, clients receive a hotel-friendly meal kit, which includes a week’s worth of meals and snacks, as well as a resource list of organizations that offer food pantries, job assistance and addiction recovery services. Though still in its infancy, the coalition has assisted 407 individuals, 40% of whom are children.

Butler conceded that Operation Roof is a short-term relief effort that doesn’t address the root causes of homelessness. HCCC’s goal is to help the unhoused by securing permanent housing.

• Phase II. To that end, the coalition soon will implement the second phase of its program, Path to Home, which will provide up to three months of housing for residents identified through Operation

Roof. In addition to longer-term housing, the program will provide one-on-one case management to help individuals overcome the causes of housing insecurity.

• Phase III. Ultimately, HCCC plans to launch Restoration Village, a long-term, in-depth initiative that will provide up to two years of housing. Program participants also will receive extensive services and case management to help them develop sustainable financial practices, thereby increasing their chances of achieving long-term housing stability.

Butler, who is the organization’s only paid staff member, said long-term, affordable housing is a great need in Cherokee County — the county doesn’t even have an emergency shelter — and few resources exist to meet this need. HCCC is privately funded through donations from the founding churches, individuals, fundraising events, other churches and nonprofit civic and community organizations.

For more information about HCCC and how you can support the organization’s mission, visit www.homelesscoalitioncherokee.org.

Tricia Grindel is a writer and editor with more than 30 years of experience. She retired from Kennesaw State University in December 2022 after teaching in the communication field for 21 years.

Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County volunteers man an information booth in the parking lot of The Way Woodstock church.

Get to Know

Harvee White

What is your main responsibility?

As education manager, I’m the liaison between schools and the museum. I work to get field trips to come here, showing students how history is relevant to their community and why it matters. My current pre-K program is called What’s Up Wednesday — we focus on one object or story in the museum and make a craft. I also bring in lecturers and develop programming for adult audiences. We have traditional lectures, as well as hands-on workshops, walking tours, etc. I really get to lean on my own curiosity. I’m lucky to have a job where I can say “I wonder …” and then develop a whole program to help me find out more.

What is your background?

I graduated from Georgia State University in 2013 with a bachelor’s in art history. In 2015, I enrolled at the University of West Georgia to get my master’s in public history and a certificate in museum studies. Public history is a fancy way of saying I get to be less academic! I take history and make it more meaningful and comprehensible for broader audiences. I’ve worked in a wide range of museums — from the High Museum of Art, where I worked in guest relations, to the Center for Puppetry Arts, where I was the gift shop associate. Before moving to Cherokee County, I was the education manager at the Augusta Museum of History — home of the Masters Tournament and birthplace of James Brown. I was there four years and, because it’s also a local history museum, it really prepared me to join History Cherokee in October 2021.

What do you like most about your job?

I love community engagement and outreach. Talking to people is one of my favorite things to do. Local history museums are unique because people are really invested in their own stories. History becomes much less abstract when you can relate it back to things in your own backyard. And, I love that people here really care about their history.

You learn about the Civil Rights Movement in school, but when you get to hear from someone from your community who helped to integrate a local business or school — that’s a different type of special. And it’s so cool to overhear people walking through our galleries share stories of their personal connections to our exhibits. I want everyone to be able to see themselves represented in that way.

My other favorite thing is hearing that kids like history because of their trip to the museum. They’ll often come in thinking that history is boring, but they’ll leave and tell me that they actually had fun! Witnessing that light switch turn on when they look at something and say “I’ve heard about this before!” or “This is just like …” — there is no greater feeling!

What projects are you excited about?

There are so many communities and audiences that I haven’t tapped into yet. I want to get home-school days started, work with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, etc. People have also expressed an interest in summer camps. That’s a big undertaking, but it’s definitely in the works. I love partnerships. If you’d like to work with me on a program or collaboration, let me know!

History Cherokee’s Education Manager

Describe a memorable work experience.

We have a race car at the museum in our Dixie Speedway exhibit — it’s just the metalwork, but it’s still the full size and scale of a real race car. Before we opened, I wanted to take it out for a “test drive” and see what it was like to get in. It was easy to get in, but very hard to get out! Long story short, I got stuck — and I was the only one in the office at the time. Thankfully, I was able to muster up enough upper body strength to get out of it, but I’m very glad our cameras weren’t set up yet. I know my co-workers would have had a nice laugh seeing me crawl out of that car.

In past jobs, I’ve gotten a lot of wild phone calls. Once, a woman called me because she thought she’d found a real dinosaur egg!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Bossier City, Louisiana. We moved to Newnan when I was in eighth grade. I’ve been in Georgia longer than I was in Louisiana now, but my taste buds will always belong to the Pelican State.

What are your goals?

While I’m at History Cherokee, I want to expand our programming and reach. It’s my hope that all of the schools in the county think of the Cherokee County History Center as a must-see destination for their students. And I want to continue to diversify the stories that we tell here. I know there is so much that we’ve only scratched the surface of.

What’s something about you that not many people know?

Many people don’t know that I was (and still am) a theater geek. I did musical theater in high school and college, and a little bit of community theater through the years. It’s something I may get back into when I learn how to have a better work-life balance! For now, give me a show tune to sing in the car or the shower, and I’m a star!

How do you like to spend free time?

In my free time, you can probably find me buying plants. I have so many house plants! In recent years, I’ve started to venture into vegetables. I’m a renter, so I do container gardens. But you can still grow a lot in containers.

I also love art. I can draw fairly well, but I’m trying my hand at watercolor. Hopefully, I’ll stick with it!

Keeping Canton Comfortable

Atlanta Air Authority Professionals Welcome the Chance to Help Their Neighbors With Heating, Air Needs

Atlanta Air Authority (AAA) started as a oneman operation in 2010, providing heating and air conditioning services to neighborhoods in and around Canton and the larger metro area.

Thirteen years later, the company has grown to include more residential clients, but now there’s an additional focus on commercial properties, churches, lodges and a few national chains. The passion that AAA’s owner, Keith Weathington, and his employees have for Canton led to the purchase of a permanent location in the city, so the business has more space and room to grow.

After working 10 years for others in the industry, Keith started AAA with a simple vision of creating a better customer experience. This standard has secured lasting relationships with customers and continued growth for the business.

“Our ease of interaction, knowledge, quality of work and long track record of the highest levels of customer satisfaction distinguish us,” Keith said. “Our customers know us, know our team and become like family; we look forward to further growing our family in the Canton area.”

What You Should Know

AAA’s owner purchased 1.5 acres in Canton, including 12,000 square feet of office and warehouse space. The move represents the focus on and commitment to growth in this market.

The property was larger than needed initially, but the business is growing into the space, which provides room to achieve Keith’s goal of doubling the company’s size over the next five years.

“In March, we celebrated our first full year in our new location with a record year, thanks to our customers and our fantastic team,” General Manager Jake Jones said.

While AAA is a Rheem Pro Partner, other brands of HVAC equipment are available. AAA customers can expect:

Top quality equipment. AAA provides customers with top quality Rheem equipment, fully covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Special discounts. Law enforcement officers, first responders and former and current members of the military are offered discounts.

Financing plans. “We work with our customers to find a plan that will fit within their budget,” Keith said.

Full range of services. The service team provides professional, proficient and trusted diagnosis, and performs needed repairs. Annual maintenance plans keep customers comfortable year-round and avoid long-term problems.

Knowledgeable technicians. Continual training for AAA technicians is essential to the company’s success. The industry is changing quickly, which Keith said requires dedication, intention and commitment to be the best.

Comfortable

Training and experience is key to the success of AAA. Technicians are offered ongoing training, and the owner has 25 years of successful experience in the industry.

Jake, also a technical advisor and system designer, earned a diploma in air conditioning technology, one of the first classes offered at Chattahoochee Technical College in Canton. He also has licensure/certificates in 10 states and has been trained and certified to be an EPA lead safe contractor, certified for microbial growth, and asbestos abatement, remediation or encapsulation.

Keith and Jake sit on the HVAC/R program advisory board for Chattahoochee Technical College. As they look to the future, they’re eager to recruit more talented and passionate employees to help create a greater customer experience with every interaction.

A Love for Community

Establishing the business in Canton was an obvious choice. Most of the AAA team live in or around the Canton area; their kids attend public schools and play sports here. Growth in the company affirms Canton as their home base.

That appreciation extends to the community, as well. AAA proudly organized and sponsored a veterans appreciation event that was well attended and involved most Cherokee County veterans organizations. Ultimately, more than $10,000 was raised for the Wounded Warrior Project.

“Our customers become our friends. We see them in our community; we attend the same events,” Jake said. “The thing we value most is those relationships. We honor and take care of our customers.”

Testimonials

“This is the first time we’ve used this company, and we will definitely continue to do business with them. Caleb was our service technician, and he was courteous and professional. He even replaced part of a pipe that had been leaking for free, as part of the service call. He left everything clean and better than how he found it. Atlanta Air Authority’s service plan for maintenance visits is very fairly priced, as well. We appreciated the attention to detail and the professionalism.” — Darren H.

“HANDS DOWN, the BEST! Just as it was getting crazy hot, our AC went out! With five people and a dog dying for some AC … Atlanta Air Authority was on the job. So professional, friendly and walked me through everything step by step. Our system was repaired quickly and has been great ever since. From beginning to heat relief, it was a smooth process.” — Christine L.

PHOTO BY BRIAN NEJEDLY

Owner Keith Weathington, Rheem representative Dan Ramsey and General Manager Jake Jones.

Celebrations!

Grateful

Age 6 on Aug. 2

Happy birthday, Kaya!

Age 14 on July 11

We love you!

Mom, Dad, Luke, Scout and Peanut

Jovan Wordlaw

Happy birthday on Aug. 24 to an amazing husband and father! Cheers to your best year yet! We love you!

XO, Ebony and Sebastian

Age 18, Eagle Scout

We are so proud of you earning the rank of Eagle Scout and fourth-degree black belt! Congratulations! Mom and Dad

Ford

Age 2 on Aug. 6

Happy birthday, Ford! We love you!

Mommy, Daddy, Hudson and Hayes

Gram Schroeder

parents, Pete and Corinne, and big sister, Alice

Christian Ryan Banks

Congratulations to John Doster and Kristen McVey of Holly Springs on their wedding! Many blessings to the happy couple!

Tiani

Age 22 on Aug. 19

From 1 to 22! Happy birthday, Tiani! We are so proud of the woman you are! Love always, Daddy, Mommy and Abygail

Allison Esposito

Age 7 on July 26

Wishing you an amazing birthday! Love Mommy, Daddy and your entire family!

Happy 76th birthday, Grumps!

Around & About

AUGUST

Etowah Golf Scramble

Aug. 4, 8:30 a.m.

Towne Lake Hills Golf Club

The third annual event, benefiting the Etowah Football Scholarship Fund, begins with registration and breakfast. Shotgun start is set for 9:30 a.m. www.etowaheaglesfootball.com/ golftournament

“Jesse’s Gift” Premiere

Aug. 4, 7:30 p.m., 117 N. Park Square Marietta

The movie by filmmaker and Canton resident Ken Merritt, filmed from late 2020 to early 2022 in Canton, Woodstock, Atlanta and more, tells the story of a singer-songwriter who loses everything and finds redemption.

www.facebook.com/jessesgiftfilm

2023 Poker Run

Aug. 5, Allatoona Lake

Register through July 15 at www.allatoonapokerrun.com. Proceeds benefit Folds of Honor Georgia.

Schmooza Palooza

Aug. 10, 4-7 p.m. Woodstock City Church

Attendees will enjoy door prizes and food while previewing the latest products and services featured at the networking event. https://cherokeechamber.com

CARES Golf Tournament

Aug. 11, 9 a.m., Fairways of Canton

Proceeds benefit Cherokee Family Violence Center. There will be breakfast, lunch, contests and raffles. https://cfvc.harnessgiving.org/ events/428

Rez Arts Night

Aug. 11, 6:30 p.m., Resurrection Anglican Church, Woodstock

Enjoy art presented by more than 20 local artists, centered around the theme, “For the Beauty of the Church.” Cody Curtis will teach on faith and the arts at the free event. https://rezwoodstock. org/artsnight

Chick-fil-A 5K

Aug. 12, 7:30 a.m., Etowah River Park

The 10th annual race will benefit the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics.

https://cherokeecounty5k.com

Chamber Classic

Aug. 14, 8 a.m., BridgeMill Athletic Club

The 20th annual golf tournament begins with registration. Shotgun start is at 9:30 a.m.

https://cherokeechamber.com

Great Georgia Pollinator Census

Aug. 18-19, 10 a.m.-noon

This project allows all ages to participate in counting insects. The Cherokee County Master Gardeners will have two census locations. On Friday and Saturday, stop by the Cherokee County Senior Center to participate. On Saturday, you also can visit Cherokee Veterans Park’s Backyard Agriculture Education Station.

https://cherokeemastergardeners.com

BEATS Gallop and Go 5K

Aug. 19, 9 a.m.-noon, Etowah River Park

Enjoy the race, fun run, vendors, games, meet therapy horses and more. www.cantonga.gov/events

Teasley Golf Tournament

Aug. 25, 7:30 a.m., Fairways of Canton

The PTSA fundraiser kicks off with check-in, followed by the shotgun start at 9 a.m. A buffet lunch will be served at the clubhouse. https://golf2grow.com/ teasley-middle-ptsa-1

Bryce Leatherwood Concert

Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m., Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater

The Whiskey Rose Band will open the free concert.

www.woodstockparksandrec.com

Unwind Wednesdays

Aug. 30, 5:30-8 p.m., Cherokee Veterans Park, Canton

The last Wednesday of each month, through October, bring your lawn chairs and blankets for dinner and special activities. www.playcherokee.org

Participants bolt at the start of the 2022 Chick-fil-A 5K. Photo by Red Baryl Portraits.

SEPTEMBER

Community Sale

Sept. 9, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Little River Methodist Church, Woodstock

A missions fundraiser, individuals and businesses will have items for sale. The event is free to the public. For more details, visit www.littleriverumc. info or call 770-926-2495.

Kid Biz Expo Golf Tournament

Sept. 11, Bridgemill Athletic Club

There will be breakfast, lunch, a practice session, door prizes, swag bags and a silent auction. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Cherokee County first responders. https://golf2grow.com/kid-biz-expo

North Georgia State Fair

Sept. 21 - Oct. 1, Jim. R. Miller Park, Marietta

The fair features live music, free attractions and shows, farm animals, local entertainment, rides, food and more. www.northgeorgiastatefair.com

3- and 6-Hour Mountain Bike Race

BridgeMill Farmers Market

Through Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays, 1190 BridgeMill Ave., Canton

Open to the public. Watch for updates on Facebook: @bridgemillfarmersmarket. Vendors can contact bridgemillfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

MadLife Stage & Studios

Events listed are held monthly at 8722 Main St., Woodstock. http://madlifestageandstudios.com

The 2023 Atlanta Blues Challenge, presented by The Atlanta Blues Society, Aug. 20, 1 p.m.

Electric Avenue: The ’80s MTV Experience, Aug. 25, 7 p.m. and 9:55 p.m.

Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience, Aug. 26, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.

Countries from Asia, Africa, North America and South America, including Venezuela, were represented at the 2022 Multicultural Festival.

Canton Multicultural Festival

Sept. 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Etowah River Park

The free event will feature a soccer tournament, food tasting, performances, music and more. www.cantonga.gov/events

Concert in the Park: Guardians of the JukeBox

Sept. 9, 7-10 p.m., downtown Ball Ground https://cityofballground.com/events

Sept. 30, 9:30 a.m., Blankets Creek Trails, Canton https://mountaingoatadventures.com/ blankets6hour

Riverfest

Sept. 23-24, 10 a.m., Etowah River Park

The 39th annual arts and crafts festival will feature more than 150 vendors, local entertainers and more. Admission is $7. https:// serviceleague.net/fundraisers/riverfest.

Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup

Sept. 30, Allatoona Lake

Registration is open through Sept. 25. www.lakeallatoonaassoc.com

Downtown Woodstock

Walking Tour Series

Tours offered every 30 minutes from 6-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. Sales begin two weeks before the tour date at the Woodstock Visitors Center or on the Downtown Woodstock Facebook and Instagram pages. For more information, call 770-924-0406.

The Art of Woodstock - Aug. 31

How Downtown Woodstock Revitalized - Sept. 28

Weird Woodstock - Oct. 26

Lantern Series

At the Woodstock Arts Event Green; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org.

Penny & Sparrow - Aug. 5

Nefesh Mountain - Aug. 26

Parson James - Sept. 30

Fox Royale - Oct. 21

Woodstock Summer Concert Series

The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com.

Completely Unchained: Van Halen Tribute - Aug. 12

Drivin N Cryin - Sept. 9

More than 1,500 people registered for the 2022 Great Lake Allatoona Clean Up. Photo courtesy of John and Cyndee Perry.

WANDERER Wonderings

A Community Torn Apart

1928 Tornado Devastated Countless Lives as It Roared Through North Cherokee

BY THE WANDERER

Family historians do some of the finest local-level historical research these days, and it is to a local family historian, Jennifer Dunn, that I am indebted for unearthing this sad tale from the 1920s. Her website is very well done, and it contains a trove of information on local history, family history searching tips and the like. Check it out at https:// genealogytechnology.com.

On March 26, 1928, one of the worst natural disasters to strike Cherokee County arrived unannounced and took lives as it passed through the area between Macedonia and Freehome. The March 28 issue of the local paper, The Cherokee Advance, included coverage of the disaster, and it read as follows:

“The tornado which struck Cherokee County last Monday night about ten o’clock near Lathemtown and Orange was probably the most appalling disaster that has visited our county. Five persons were hurled to their death and a score of

others injured, houses and barns blown away, cattle, hogs and chickens disappeared and vehicles demolished. … Coming on this little community while they slept and striking with viciousness and without warning, the windstorm carved a path a quarter of a mile wide and four miles long on the countryside, leaving uprooted trees, demolished homes, and death and destruction in its wake. The tornado struck first at the home of William J. Millwood in the Orange community. And after killing four members of this family and injuring five others, and scattering the Millwood home over a lot of land, traveled east to Lathemtown and destroyed four more houses.”

The carnage is hard to read, even today. Osie Heath (age 25) of Lathemtown was crushed beneath his fallen home. Visiting him in the home were Mr. and Mrs. Grady Fowler. At the time of the article, Grady had a broken arm, eight ribs fractured near his spine and was not expected to survive. His wife narrowly escaped injury and told them there was no time to escape the house before it was demolished around them. Howard McCuen of Lathemtown also was badly injured.

But the saddest fate was that of the Millwood family, where the mother and father (William and Ida), their son Allen, 17, and daughter Estelle, 13, all died. The surviving Millwood children were seriously injured: Alfred Millwood, 20, with a head wound, Leo Millwood, 11, with a broken left forearm, Edith Millwood, 9, with both arms broken and William Jr., 7, with a serious head laceration.

Alfred related what happened from his hospital bed, saying

that everyone was in bed when they heard a terrible rushing noise coming toward them. He ran to the door to see what was going on, only to be struck on the head by a window frame. He traveled some 25 yards in the air before landing in the road, facedown in mud. Steadying himself for a time, he could hear some of his siblings crying. And, while dizzy, he managed to locate three of them.

An abandoned house nearby was still standing; he brought them there and started a fire to keep them warm. At dawn, he went to a neighbor’s house for help. The neighbors, the Edwards family, had lost their barn entirely and suffered serious damage to their home, but were uninjured. Upon learning of the tragedy to the Millwood family, they called for help, and the Millwood children were all brought to Canton for medical attention.

The two deceased children were found near the ruins of the home. Their mother’s body was found a quarter of a mile away, and their father was found a full half mile away, along with a section of the house’s floor.

Nine days later, on April 6, a follow-up article in the paper updated the condition of the Millwood survivors and the community’s outpouring of support. The three younger children were still under the care of Dr. Coker, who refused any compensation for their treatment. It mentions that they were surrounded by dolls, picture books and toys, and had tasted ice cream for the first time. The oldest boy, Alfred, was out of the hospital.

It was noted that the Millwoods had a “storm pit” (what in my day we called a root cellar or a storm cellar) only 100 feet away from the home. But there had been no warning, and no time to make for it. The Millwoods were of humble means, and generous contributions to the Red Cross came in from locals, but also from out of state and even out of the country. These funds went to burial expenses for the dead and food, clothing and medicine for the survivors.

It would be interesting to dig through the census and local records in hopes of learning what became of the four young Millwoods, whose lives were changed forever on that night in 1928. Perhaps another dauntless family historian like Dunn will pick up the challenge and do so.

We live in an age where forecasters routinely provide us with several days’ warning of an impending hurricane, and real-time information via internet and television on tornado formation and location, or on the possibility of flash flooding in a given area. It’s easy to take all this for granted when major advances in meteorological technology during the past 95 years have made this possible.

We all can find ourselves romanticizing the past, but events like this are poignant reminders of Billy Joel’s observation in his song, “Keeping the Faith”:

“’Cause the good ole days weren’t always good, and tomorrow ain’t as bad as it seems …”

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 2,000 miles in 2022. Send questions or comments to wanderingga@gmail.com.

Cherokee

Groups Foster Connections

BY JESSICA FORRESTER

In an increasingly digital age, connecting with likeminded individuals can be a daunting task. However, local Facebook groups — from boating and Jeeping to disc golf and … chickens! — can help bridge the gap and serve as a meeting point for people with common interests.

Joining Facebook groups dedicated to things you’re passionate about can lead to meaningful interactions, learning new things and forming friendships. The social media platform’s search function makes finding these groups easy. A quick keyword search of nearly any hobby or topic you can think of will lead you to a plethora of virtual communities.

We’ve even done a deep dive to make it easier for you. Here are some of Cherokee County’s Facebook groups that have around 1,000 — or more! — members.

Parents Unite

• Canton GA Moms (and Dads) Club allows its 4,000 members to connect with other families looking for things to do around town.

• Moms of Woodstock, GA boasts more than 7,000 members, who share ideas about raising children, ways to help others and even how to settle arguments between couples.

• Moms of Canton, GA was created to give moms a space to ask for advice, recommendations or to just vent.

Rock Drop!

• The more than 8,000 members of “Woodstock Rocks” — Cherokee County paint rocks that are “hidden” around Woodstock, and all over the county, to spread joy and brighten people’s day.

• The Canton Rocks — Georgia group posts photos of rocks found around Canton and paints rocks to leave around town.

Cherokee History

• The 17,000 members of Old Pictures of Cherokee County Ga make connections by posting old family photos, maps, landmarks and more.

• The You’re Probably From Canton, GA (Cherokee County) If You Remember group reminisces about the things, people and places in our community’s past.

Cherokee Girl Gang members meet for brunch. From left: Tonya Maloy, Priscilla Vega, Viju John, Stephanie Delgadillo, Gina Newsome and Heather Cabbell.

Female Forums

• Cherokee Girl Gang, with more than 3,000 members, was created to help meet other women, so everyone can find their people.

• Cherokee 40+ Girl Gang is a place for women to meet new friends, encouraging members to hang out for food, coffee, music, laughter and more.

Woodstock Connects

• What’s Happening in Downtown Woodstock, GA has more than 13,000 members and offers space to highlight nightlife, music, restaurants and events in the downtown area.

• Family Fun Activities in and Around Woodstock provides a platform for posting activities for kids and families, as well as setting up playdates or events around town.

Recreational Vehicles

• Cherokee County Jeepers is a local Jeep family who loves riding, meeting and discussing all things Jeep.

• With more than 3,000 members, Lake Allatoona Boaters is a space where people can share happenings, meet-ups, fun stuff, safety concerns, general matters relating to the lake and ask questions about their boats.

Sports Squad

• Woodstock/Cherokee Pickleball has more than 900 members and was created to share news and information about pickleball in our area.

• Cherokee County Disc Golf is a group that discusses growth and improvement of disc golf in our county.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

• The Hickory Log Creek Reservoir Fishing group is dedicated to sharing information about reservoir fishing, techniques, rules, etc.

• With nearly 40,000 members, Allatoona Lake Life is a platform to post details about events, cove gatherings, parties and lake conditions.

• Cherokee County Chicken Club offers its 4,000 members a space to post about their chickens, coops and more.

• Lake Allatoona Fishing Forum boasts more than 15,000 members, who post photos off their catches, ask for suggestions and more.

• Allatoona Striper Fishing is a group where you can show off your Allatoona or Etowah River striper catches.

• Cherokee County Equestrians allows its 2,000 members to connect with other equestrians close to home.

Educational Resources

• Homeschoolers of Cherokee County, Georgia consists of families dedicated to encouraging one another, building friendships and allowing their children to create and foster long-term friendships.

• With 8,000 members, the Cherokee County School District Unofficial Community Group is a forum created for learning more about the school district and receiving advice and knowledge on subjects related to CCSD.

There also are a variety of local groups dedicated to reuniting owners and lost pets, as well as helping wildlife. Furry Friends Lost and Found in Cherokee County, GA boasts more than 23,000 members, and Cherokee Connect Wildlife has more than 3,000. And, if you’re interested in helping support Canton’s two food pantries or community gardens, consider joining Canton Pantry Angels.

While Facebook groups offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to approach them with respect and understanding. Adhere to each group’s rules and guidelines and maintain a courteous and positive attitude. Engaging responsibly helps promote a healthy digital community and guarantees a productive and pleasant experience for all members.

For other hobbies or topics you’re passionate about, dive into the world of Facebook groups or consider creating your own! It could lead you down a path of discovery, camaraderie and personal growth.

On June 24, Lake Allatoona Fishing Forum member Caleb McClure, left, with Trent Hall, caught the largest recorded longnose gar in Allatoona’s history. It was just shy of 5 feet, weighing in at 27.25 pounds, which beat the previous record by 15 pounds.

Riddick Inspires Change, One Smile at a Time

BY MARGARET MILLER

Woodstock native Tonya Riddick is a staunch advocate for our young people. In spite of headlines and news reports that seem to indicate the contrariness of some children, Tonya said, “Every child I meet inspires me to continue pushing for a better world for them.”

Out of her personal belief grew SmileUp!, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created in 2018 that provides young people with opportunities to serve in Cherokee County. “We have to make sure their voices are heard and appreciated. What we fail to realize is that when we ignore their voices, we are ignoring our own future, because what and how young people think will be the ideal we are forced to live with when they grow up,” she said.

Tonya explained that statistics show volunteerism has positive effects on mental health, bringing smiles to all involved. Thus the name, SmileUp! “A smile causes the brain to release tiny molecules called neuroleptics to help fight off stress. Other neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins come into play, too. The endorphins act as a mild pain reliever, whereas serotonin is an antidepressant,” she said. (https://bit.ly/44q6AEE)

This volunteer organization has a membership of about 480, ages 18 and younger. Typically, each child has an

opportunity to donate their service at least once a month. Opportunities to contribute vary from month to month. “We even had a 2-year-old volunteer, placing sticky notes of encouragement during our annual Stickie Smiles campaign,” Tonya said.

Annually, members prepare peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the homeless in downtown Atlanta. This year, they provided more than 2,000 sandwiches. Volunteers also collect books, which they donate to Books for Africa. During the past three years, they have collected and donated about 3,200 books. Monthly events from which members may choose are posted on the SmileUp! website, where parents also can enroll children who are interested in getting involved.

Once enrolled, local youth and their guardians are kept informed of volunteer opportunities via email. Tonya explained that SmileUp! is in the process of developing an app via Safe Avenue that would allow young volunteers to be more engaged in selecting events they want to participate in.

How is SmileUp! supported financially? Funding comes from individuals in the community. “The more

money we have to provide materials/ items needed to help children, the more children we can help,” Tonya said.

Tonya knows about the needs of children in Cherokee County. Her parents, Kenneth and Ann Johnson, were in business here for many decades, and she grew up and was educated here. She has been married to Steve Riddick for 23 years, and they have two sons. Their oldest, Steven Kenneth, 21, attends DePaul University in Chicago on a full presidential scholarship. Jared, 15, attends Etowah High School. He plans to be an environmental engineer to create ways to impact our planet positively.

The Riddicks are avid travelers, nationally and globally. “I want my sons to be world citizens, so we travel, gaining exposure to how others live and what their needs are,” she said.

For more information about SmileUp!, visit https:// smileupfoundation.org.

Margaret Miller has been a resident of Cherokee County for the past decade. Her writing hobby led her to become a columnist for community and daily newspapers.

SmileUp! ambassador Aahana and her mom help kids make happy bracelets at the annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day in May.

SmileUp! volunteers Rowan and Arianna with founder/executive director Tonya Riddick.

Maintaining Healthy Smiles in College

BY SCOTT V. MERRITT, DMD

College life is a thrilling chapter filled with late-night study sessions, new friendships and newfound independence. Amidst the excitement, it’s crucial not to neglect one’s dental health. Good oral hygiene practices can help college students maintain a healthy smile, prevent dental issues and leave a positive impression on potential employers. As students gear up for another exciting school year, they can follow seven tips to prioritize their dental health.

1. Stick to a routine. Brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and bacteria, preventing tooth decay and bad breath. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

2. Flossing is your friend. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. Incorporate flossing into your daily routine to prevent gum disease.

3. Avoid sugary snacking. College campuses are notorious for vending machines filled with sugary treats. However, excessive sugar consumption can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables and nuts.

4. Stay hydrated. Water helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids that can harm tooth enamel. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on campus.

5. Beware of energy drinks and alcohol. Although often consumed in college settings, these drinks can wreak havoc on your smile. Energy drinks are acidic and contain high sugar levels, which can erode tooth enamel. Alcoholic beverages can dehydrate your mouth and reduce saliva flow, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Moderation and rinsing your mouth with water after consumption is key.

6. Protect your smile. If you participate in sports, protect your teeth with a mouthguard. A properly fitted mouthguard can prevent dental injuries, such as chipped or knocked-out teeth.

7. Stress management. College can be stressful, and stress can negatively impact dental health. Stress may lead to teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which can cause tooth damage and jaw pain. Practice stress management techniques like exercising and meditating.

A healthy smile is a valuable asset inside and outside the classroom. By maintaining a consistent dental routine and attending regular dental checkups, college students can enjoy all that college life offers.

Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.

Golfing for a Great Cause

In June and July, a variety of golf tournaments were held in Canton, including the Service League’s Golfing Fore! the Children tournament and Cherokee County Special Olympics’ tournament, both held at Fairways of Canton. In addition, Cherokee Family Violence Center’s Sunday Funday TopGolf Tournament took place in Alpharetta. Check out these photos from the events to see if you recognize any of your neighbors.

Cherokee Family Violence Center

Cherokee County Special Olympics

Service League of Cherokee County

The Cherokee Family Violence Center (CFVC) board raised nearly $13,000 for domestic violence victims and survivors at the TopGolf tournament, which included a silent auction and raffles.

The Service League’s fifth annual Golfing Fore! the Children tournament raised thousands of dollars to help children in Cherokee County.

Canton City Councilman Shawn Tolan, with CFVC Executive Director Meg Rodgers, was honored as a 2023 CFVC Champion at the event.

Circle of Friends Vice President of Operations Nick Carberry and team member Brian Nance at the fourth annual CCSO tournament.

From left, Cherokee County Special Olympics athletes Caleb Guy, Will Carnes, Kent and Todd Wilson, Anderson Sisk and Maggie Tressler celebrate a successful tournament, which raised more than $26,000.

Service League members Ashley Carlile and Katlyn Thacker present trophies to the 2023 first-place team.

for School Success

BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

4

“Parents can show their children the value of the word ‘yet.’ Help them see that even though they don’t know how to do something ‘yet,’ they can persist. This will help them build their confidence and help them see that success comes through effort and continual development.”

— Autumn Hamilton, i-Grad Virtual Academy

5

1

“‘Prepare your kid for the path – not the path for your kid.’ Learning, like life, isn’t easy. Failure is inevitable. I would challenge parents to help their kids learn how to take ownership of their shortcomings, be humble and appreciative, and respond with dignity when adversity hits.”

2

“Parents are essential for fostering a love for learning. Allowing children the opportunity to explore, to read, to talk and to share is critical. Talking to your children about what they are learning and offering support encourages children to be their best. Parents are a child’s first teacher.”

— Makay Morgan, Holly Springs Elementary STEM Academy

6

— Josh Thomas, Cherokee High

“Reading is such an important life skill, and parents can help by making reading a fun and positive experience for their child. This can be a fun bedtime story, a parent reading a book aloud or a parent and child sharing the reading. A trip to the public library also can be a fun time to choose books for this special reading time.”

“Parents have to let their children take risks and learn from failures. Each day of learning brings new challenges, and students must learn how to dig deep and persevere through these challenges. Students who are able to overcome obstacles will be better prepared for future careers and life in general.”

Every Monday during the school year on Cherokee County School District social media, we share advice for school success from one of our top teachers. Here are a few of their suggestions to help you and your children get the new school year off to a great start. 7

— Vickie Cater, Little River Elementary

3

“Encouragement and involvement are two extremely important things children need from their parents. Students need someone who will encourage them to continue trying to overcome difficult situations. Giving up is too easy, especially without positive encouragement.”

— Cary Johnson, E.T. Booth Middle

— Tiffany Bearden, Ball Ground Elementary

STEM Academy

“Parents can help their children by teaching them how to respect one another, themselves and the adults with whom they interact. I would encourage every parent to set time aside to talk with their students about how their school day went, what they are learning or find interesting about their studies, and to encourage them to dream and explore.”

— Christine Van de Cayzeele, Woodstock Middle

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

3 Essential Books for Personal Growth

BY BRYCE JONES

Books are a wealth of knowledge right at your fingertips. You can learn about anything from quantum physics to how fossils are formed. Over the years, books on personal growth piqued my interest. I’ve read books such as “Atomic Habits” and “The Traveler’s Gift,” which are insightful and fun to read, but there are a few books that stand above the rest. Here are the top three personal growth books I’d recommend to any teenager or young adult. The lessons from these books have helped shape who I am, and I still use some of these concepts every day.

1. “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens”

Author Sean Covey knows that the life of a teenager is anything but easy. Between school, friends and parents, life can get pretty overwhelming. Sometimes teens might feel no one understands the challenges they face. This book addresses those challenges by sharing the stories of teens and how they were able to overcome certain obstacles. Along with these stories, Covey shares seven simple habits that have helped teens improve their lives and prepare them for the future.

2. “How to Win Friends and Influence People”

Even though it was written almost a century ago, the concepts taught by Dale Carnegie in this book are timeless. He describes different methods and techniques for handling people and relationships, as well as how to become a good conversationalist and leader. For example, Carnegie explains that publicly calling someone out for a mistake might lead to more conflict, and a better solution would be to let them know in private. Through the use of analogies and stories, he helps readers better understand his points and makes it an interesting book to read.

3. “The Success Principles for Teens”

This book by Jack Canfield and Kent Healy is filled with interactions and cartoons. It demonstrates how people aren’t born successful, but are made successful through diligent efforts to develop positive skills and habits. One of my favorite chapters explains how you are the sum of your five closest friends, and that you become more like the people you hang out with. The authors explain how it’s important to surround yourself with people that will lift you up, not drag you down.

Bryce Jones is a Woodstock High honors student who plays soccer and is involved in student government. He was a reporter for Scholastic Kids Press and a 2020 TEDx Speaker.

Spreading

Creating a Better World for Parrots in Captivity

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Imagine if you lived every day in a place that did not have enough room for you to stretch your arms and legs. Too often this is the experience for exotic pet birds. Being sold in cages that are too small, and without buyers having proper knowledge of their behavior — or what they require to live a healthy and balanced life — creates a crisis for these fabulous creatures.

Papayago Rescue House, co-founded by Executive Director Brianna Stoddard and her mother, CEO Maria Sullivan, became a nonprofit in January 2015. The mother-daughter team, along with volunteers, work relentlessly to improve the care of parrots and to decrease the homelessness, abuse and neglect that sadly often goes along with keeping wild, exotic animals in our homes.

“Papayago Rescue House exists not only to rescue these birds from these dire situations, but also to educate the public on proper care, to help them thrive,” Stoddard said. “Lack of education, small cages, poor diet and (no veterinary care) leads to abuse. Problems like emotional stress, illness, self-mutilation and injuries happen as a result. Our mission includes rehabilitation, retraining and rehoming parrots. And, if they’ve got wings, other species aren’t excluded.”

The Marietta-based rescue organization has saved more than 600 birds since its inception and receives requests for pet surrenders on a weekly basis. As one of only two parrot rescues in the state, it serves all of Georgia. Feeding the 160 birds presently housed at Papayago requires 320 pounds of pellets every two months at a cost of $646.

One of the nonprofit’s top expenses is providing medical care. Parrots require the use of exotic specialists. “Our biggest call to action is to learn, adopt, volunteer, donate and support parrots in captivity,” Sullivan said. “A wonderful partner in the care of our incredible birds is one of my volunteers, Mike Bautsch. He founded a nonprofit called The Georgia Aviary in February of this year, which is in the beginning stages.

Papayago Rescue House resident Marley, a blue and gold macaw, with his favorite treat, a walnut.

Georgia Aviary’s Mike Bautsch with an umbrella cockatoo.

Wings and Change

This aviary will be a wonderful solution to the parrot crisis in Georgia and surrounding areas.”

“I have a big dream,” Bautsch said. “Our mission is to become the world’s largest aviary dedicated to the rescue and care of parrots right here in north Georgia. (Think Georgia Aquarium, except for parrots instead of marine life.) We strive to offer an exciting and unique attraction for visitors, while also promoting avian care and conservation.

“By providing a safe haven for rescued parrots, we hope to inspire visitors to become more aware of avian welfare and the challenges they face.”

Some of the bird species that will call The Georgia Aviary home include macaws, cockatoos, African greys, Amazons, conures, eclectus and lovebirds.

“Like Maria and Brianna, I have rescued parrots for years,” Bautsch said. “The Georgia Aviary will not only be a solution for the overabundance of surrendered birds, but also have a significant and positive impact on the local community. The aviary is projected to generate millions of dollars annually. In addition,

the construction and ongoing operation of the aviary will create jobs and support our local economy in numerous ways.”

For more information, and to follow Georgia Aviary’s progress, visit thegeorgiaaviary.org. The aviary is moving forward in its search for land and corporate sponsorship. Contact mike@ thegeorgiaaviary.org with any leads.

If you are interested in volunteering, need to surrender a bird or want to adopt, visit papayagorescuehouse.org. Papayago is not open to the public. Appointments are required to visit. You can schedule services, such as boarding or nail and beak trimming. To send the birds toys or support the rescue with supplies, visit https://bit.ly/3NC4JWD and birdieboxbirdtoys. com. For more details, email maria.sullivan@ papayagorescuehouse.org.

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.

Papayago House Executive Director Brianna Stoddard cuddles Sugarbird, a citron cockatoo.

Sunday Supper Dishes to Serve 7

for

At church dinners, congregation members get to socialize and share a meal, feeding souls twofold. The menu almost always includes vegetables like potatoes and macaroni and cheese — if you don’t count macaroni and cheese as a vegetable, you might not be from the South! ALM reached out to local churches to request delicious recipes from members, and the ladies who responded did not disappoint! If you’re not sure what to make for your next potluck, check out these seven soul-satisfying dishes.

Swedish Apple Pie

Submitted by Cindy Kirk

St. Michael the Archangel, Woodstock

• 5 firm apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, etc.)

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar, divided

• ¾ cup melted butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup flour

• 1 egg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease/oil a pie pan. Peel and slice enough apples to fill the pan approximately ⅔ full with firm apples. (If apples are not tart enough, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.) Sprinkle the apples with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon sugar. Combine the melted butter, sugar, flour and egg. Pour the mixture over the apples. Sprinkle the top with remaining cinnamon sugar. (While baking, the batter will spread down into the apples and create a pie crust simultaneously.) Bake until deep golden brown, around 40-45 minutes. Chill and serve cold with whipped cream.

Note: Substitute ground/powdered oatmeal for the flour to make the recipe gluten-free.

Mom’s Potato Casserole

Submitted by Dottie Preuhs

The Way Woodstock Church

• 32 ounces frozen hash browns

• ¾ cup melted butter, divided (½ cup and ¼ cup)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• ½ cup chopped onion

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 8 ounces sour cream

• 10 ounces Velveeta, cut into chunks

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes

Thaw potatoes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix potatoes with ½ cup butter, salt, pepper, onion, soup, sour cream and Velveeta. Spread in a 13-by-9-inch baking dish.

Place crushed cornflakes in a bowl and mix with ¼ cup melted butter. Spread evenly on top of the potato mixture. Bake for 1 hour.

Four Cheese Macaroni

Submitted by Tammy Winter

Heritage Presbyterian Church, Acworth

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni

• ½ cup feta or blue cheese

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1½ cups shredded jack cheese

• ¼ cup butter

• ¼ cup flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ⅛ teaspoon pepper

• 3 cups milk

• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs

Cook macaroni. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-inch glass pan. Pour macaroni in the pan. Add feta and parmesan to hot pasta. Add half of the shredded cheeses to the pasta. Mix.

In a pot on the stove, make a roux by melting butter over high heat. Add flour, salt and pepper. Using a whisk, bring to a boil. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Reduce to low, and stir to thicken. Add remaining cheese. Mix roux into the pasta. Top with remaining shredded cheese, and sprinkle bread crumbs on top.

Bake to heat through and melt cheeses, until brown on top, 30-45 minutes.

This recipe can be multiplied for larger crowds.

Summer Fruit Cake

Submitted by Jean Lovmo

Little River Methodist Church

Woodstock

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• Fresh or canned fruit of choice

You’ll need a 9-inch springform pan, the bottom lined with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 375 degrees for a shiny pan or 350 for a nonstick, dark pan. Beat eggs and sugar on high for 5 minutes. Add sour cream, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium until just blended. In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients until blended. Add to egg mixture and beat on low until blended. Don’t overbeat. Pour half of the mixture into the pan; top with fruit. Pour the rest of the mixture in the pan, covering fruit. Top with fruit, and bake 50-60 minutes. Cool in pan, remove ring, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Note: This recipe can be made with different summer fruits, such as chopped strawberries, pineapple, blueberries and canned pears.

Arleen’s Rhubarb Torte

Submitted by Cindy Kirk

St. Michael the Archangel, Woodstock

• ¼ cup butter or margarine

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons hot water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 cup flour

• 2½ cups chopped rhubarb (½ inch pieces)

• ½ cup chopped nuts (I like walnuts)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and sugar. Add egg. Beat. Add water and vanilla. Mix. Add dry ingredients, and mix well. Fold in rhubarb and nuts. Bake 45 minutes in an 8-by-8-inch or 9-by-9-inch pan. Top with sauce (recipe below) when serving.

Caramel Sauce Topping

• ½ cup butter

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup sugar

• ½ cup whipping cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Place butter, sugars and whipping cream in a quart saucepan. Bring to a boil, and boil for 2-3 minutes. Add vanilla. Serve sauce hot.

Easy Chicken Pie

Submitted by Lisa McBurnett

McHelen Baptist Church, Canton

• ½ stick melted butter

• 1 cup broth

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• Salt and pepper

• 3 cups shredded chicken

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup baking mix

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix butter, broth and soup. Add salt and pepper to taste. In a 13-by-9-inch pan, layer chicken with the mixture. Combine baking mix with milk and pour over the chicken mixture. Do not stir. Bake for 45 minutes.

Cheddar Cheese Meatloaf

Submitted by Janis Forrester

McHelen Baptist Church, Canton

• 1½ pounds ground beef

• 4 ounces mushrooms, chopped

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• ¾ cup oatmeal

• 1 egg

• 1¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• ¾ cup milk

• 8-ounce block sharp cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Blend meat with mushrooms, onion, oatmeal, egg, salt, pepper and milk. Dice cheese into ½-inch cubes. Mix into meat mixture, distributing cheese evenly. Bake in a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan for 60 to 75 minutes. Pour off liquid. Cool before cutting.

These animals are at Cobb County Animal Services, waiting for homes.

Rob’s Rescues

If you missed the first part of my interview with Suzie DeGrasse of Primarily Possums Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation last month, you can read it at aroundcantonmagazine.com.The rehabilitation center helps possums, bats, cottontail rabbits, armadillos and more. Learn more at www.primarilypossums.org.

Why does Primarily Possums also help bats?

Bats are heading for endangered status. Populations are suffering, due to less food as a result of pesticide use and loss of habitat. There are only two bat rehabbers in Georgia, and we need more.

This dog’s tag is 645457. She is a small terrier who was a stray. She is a very calm and gentle 8-year-old and is affectionate. She would be a very nice pet for a person. She looks like she just needs a bath and some love and care.

Why do bats usually need to be rehabilitated?

The majority are babies that have fallen out of a colony. Sometimes, there is not enough room, as they are all born around the same time at the end of May. Injured adults often are caught by cats or suffer collisions.

Are there any myths about bats that aren’t true?

1. Not all bats carry rabies. Only around 1% of bats do.

2. They are not generally rabid creatures. However, don’t touch a grounded bat without a rehabber’s instructions. They are not blood-suckers.

3. They are insectivorous. None of the bats in our area eat fruit.

4. Bats have very small eyes and can see fine, but rely on echolocations more than vision. Brown bats are very talkative amongst themselves.

What is something people should know about bats?

Pesticide use affects bats by reducing the amount of food available to them. When we spray for mosquitos, we are effectively eradicating bats. Bats are much more effective at reducing mosquitos and should be encouraged.

What should someone do if they find an injured bat?

This cat’s name is Aristelle. Her tag number is 645372. She also is an 8-year-old stray. She is very loving and needs a family to hang around with. She is very calm and would not cause problems in a household. She looks like she is blind in one eye.

What is your favorite part of the bat rehab process?

I have a new flight tent. Watching the little bat I am currently rehabbing going from drinking milk to learning how to fly has been a real treat and an honor.

Contain it. Just put a box over it, and don’t handle it, if possible. Try to get it to crawl into a box. Then, call a rehabber.

Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.

Rob with Suzie DeGrasse of Primarily Possums, holding a bat she is rehabilitating.

7 Reasons for Teens to Visit OB-GYNs

BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

Parents strive to provide children with the best possible care and guidance throughout their lives. When it comes to the health and well-being of teenage daughters, you can prioritize their reproductive health by taking them to see an obstetriciangynecologist (OB-GYN). While the thought of visiting a gynecologist may seem intimidating or unnecessary for a young girl, here are seven reasons why these visits are crucial.

1. Building trust. Regular visits to an OB-GYN can establish a trusting relationship between your daughter and the doctor. This familiarity and comfort make it easier for her to discuss sensitive topics and ask questions about reproductive health.

2. Understanding puberty. An OB-GYN can explain the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty, such as breast development, menstruation and hormonal fluctuations, which can help your daughter navigate this transformative phase with confidence.

3. Menstruation education. Menstruation can be confusing for a teenage girl. An OB-GYN can educate her about menstrual cycles, proper hygiene and answer questions.

4. Addressing concerns. Teenagers often have questions about their bodies, relationships, sexuality and contraception. By providing accurate information and addressing concerns, a gynecologist can help your daughter make informed decisions about her reproductive health.

5. Sexual health and sexually transmitted disease prevention. Discussing sexual health is crucial. Guidance and information about safe sex practices, STI prevention and contraception options promote responsible sexual behavior and protect reproductive health.

6. Identifying health issues. Regular visits allow early identification and prevention of potential health issues. An OB-GYN can perform screenings, such as Pap tests or HPV vaccinations, to detect abnormalities. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and overall well-being.

7. Lifelong health habits. Visiting an OB-GYN at an early age instills the importance of prioritizing reproductive health throughout life. These visits encourage proactive care.

From building trust and providing education to addressing concerns and identifying health issues, OB-GYNs play a vital role in guiding young girls through adolescence. Prioritizing these visits empowers your daughter to make informed decisions about her reproductive health and fosters a lifetime of good health habits.

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has seven OB-GYNs and five advanced practice providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.

Hit the Road With Your Local Library

BY SARAH CHILDERS

Summer might be coming to an end, but your public libraries still are enjoying some time in the sun. This month, join the Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) as we hit the road and make the most of the last days of summer.

Feeling artsy? Kick off the month with us at the Reeves House Visual Arts Center Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. for storytime and a craft. Next, stop by R. T. Jones Memorial Library Aug. 7 at 4:30 p.m. for our End-of-Summer Celebration. Then, soak up the sun with us Aug. 8 at 11 a.m. for Storytime at the Park at the Woodstock Arts Event Green.

Need a library card? Join us for a Pop-Up Library and Storytime at 10 a.m. Aug. 1, 11 and 15 at J.B. Owens Park, Aug. 17 at J.J. Biello Park and Aug. 23 at Heritage Park. Sign up for a library card, and browse books for all ages out in the sunshine.

In addition to our outdoor events, we have plenty of all-ages programming you can enjoy away from the summer sun. Visit Ball Ground Public Library Aug. 1 at 5 p.m. for Zodiac Art Prints for Tweens and Teens. Then, relax and play games at Woodstock Public Library Aug. 2 at 2:30 p.m. during Senior Social Hour. Next, learn more about blacksmithing Aug. 21 at 11 a.m. as we welcome the Funk Heritage Center to R.T. Jones Memorial Library. Finally, visit our Rose Creek Public Library Aug. 24 at 11 a.m. to discover how to make your backyard garden a calming, inviting space. For more programs, view our full calendar at www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org.

Next month, join SRLS as we celebrate National Library Card Sign-Up Month. SRLS library cards are free to all residents of Cherokee, Pickens and Gilmer counties. Stop by your local SRLS library to see what you might discover with a library card.

No matter the adventure you choose, SRLS is here to help you on your journey. Whether you’re a longtime cardholder, a new cardholder or you haven’t thought about the library until now, it is our privilege to serve you. We’re proud to be your dynamic destination for discovery!

Adam Boehmer, juggler extraordinaire, puts on a Summer Discovery show at Woodstock Public Library in June.

Sarah Childers is the marketing manager of the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

Young community members dress up and sing along at R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s June Music and Moves: Disney Sing-A-Long.

Navigating the Mortgage Insurance Maze

BY CHRIS JOHNSON

Two mortgage insurance terms that often confuse homebuyers are PMI, which stands for private mortgage insurance, and FHA mortgage insurance, a product associated with loans offered by the Federal Housing Administration. Let’s break them down in a way that’s easy to understand, which can help when choosing between those options.

PMI is a type of insurance policy that protects the lender in case you default on your mortgage loan. This insurance typically is required when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. Once you’ve built enough equity in your home — usually when your loan balance drops to 78% of the home’s original appraised value — PMI can be canceled, which can lower your monthly payment.

On the other hand, FHA mortgage insurance is a mandatory component for all FHA loans, regardless of your down payment size. This insurance comes in two parts: an upfront premium that’s paid at closing by being added to your loan amount and an annual premium that’s divided into monthly payments. Unlike PMI, FHA mortgage insurance can’t be canceled for most mortgages. This means you’re required to keep paying the insurance premium for the life of the loan or until you refinance into a non-FHA loan. Also, this year, FHA reduced the monthly premium. Depending on your down payment, it can be

as low as 0.50%. This, along with the lower FHA mortgage rate, usually makes FHA the better option.

So which one should you choose? It largely depends on your individual circumstances. PMI could be the better choice if you can afford a down payment of 10% or more and have a good credit score, as it can be canceled once you’ve built up enough equity. FHA mortgage insurance, despite being noncancelable, might be a more suitable option if your credit score isn’t as strong or you have a smaller down payment, as FHA loans tend to have more lenient qualification requirements.

Remember, choosing the right kind of mortgage insurance can make a significant difference in your homeownership journey. Always consult a mortgage broker or financial advisor to find the most suitable option for your unique financial situation.

Navigating the world of mortgages can be complex, but understanding the differences between PMI and FHA mortgage insurance can help clear some of the fog. Happy house hunting!

Chris Johnson started his mortgage career in 2004. He’s been a Canton resident since 2020. As CEO of Sunshine Mortgage, he’s always willing to provide unbiased mortgage advice. 678-952-9020.

EVERYDAY

Identifying people in need in our community.

On June 14, at the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, Woodstock resident Andrew Troxell, 24, was enjoying the festival with his sister, Emily, and her boyfriend.

“The first few days were amazing, listening to our favorite musicians until Andrew began feeling bad,” Emily said. “On June 16, Andrew woke up complaining of tightness in his chest and indigestion. He never complains about anything. Later that day, Andrew’s complaints were louder and walking became difficult. We immediately found the event’s medical tent.

“Once inside the tent, Andrew’s heart rate was 180 beats per minute. After the staff’s several failed attempts to bring his heart rate down, they called an ambulance to transport him to a local hospital. As I rode with him in the ambulance, he started coughing and became nauseous. I called our mom, and she was quickly on her way.”

The scans performed at the hospital revealed that his lungs were filled with fluid, and he needed to be intubated immediately. His condition was rapidly deteriorating. “My mom arrived, and we knew he needed to be at a larger hospital,” Emily said.

“Andrew was air-lifted to Erlanger, Chattanooga. By the time he was loaded in the helicopter, his condition was extremely critical. We were terrified he would not make it there. When the helicopter arrived at Erlanger, Andrew went into cardiac arrest. Thankfully, they were able to resuscitate him. Andrew’s lungs and heart were failing, and he required life support. Additional tests revealed that his liver and kidneys were not receiving enough oxygen. Surgeons needed to help his heart with an Impella pump, to circulate blood throughout his body.

“On June 19, Andrew was transported closer to home to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, where a team was waiting to resume his care. Sedated, intubated and on dialysis, his team concluded that he would require a larger Impella, as his heart needed time to rest and heal while his other organs were being supported. Life support, dialysis, infection and

blood transfusions have sustained Andrew, but each week there are days of progress and setbacks,” she said.

The infectious disease team said he tested positive for H influenza, which they believe began in his lungs and quickly moved to his heart, affecting his other vital organs.

Andrew is a 2017 graduate of Etowah High School and attended Kennesaw State University. He manages the Quik Trip off Bells Ferry Road in Woodstock. Until now, he has always been healthy and the family has not uncovered any underlying health issues that could explain these recent events.

Andrew’s mom, Stacy, is a widow and has not left his side since June 16. Emily set up a GoFundMe account so all who know and love Andrew and their family can help them.

“We’ve had to be strong before. Eight years ago, our dad tragically took his life, and my mom, Andrew and I vowed to stick together no matter what. Through our heartbreak, we drew closer and became stronger together,” Emily said. “Today, we find ourselves in another difficult season as Andrew fights to recover from a sudden illness.

“We never imagined another tragic event like this would happen to our family, but we are trying to stay as strong as possible for Andrew, and I keep telling my mom there is no other option than for him to recover, so I have faith that he will,” she said. “Thank you everyone, once again, for your love, support, prayers and donations for our family. We are so thankful to have such amazing friends and a compassionate community who has always been here for us.”

If you would like to encourage this sweet family, you may donate to their GoFundMe or through Everyday Angels, if you would like a tax receipt.

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.

Andrew with his sister, Emily, and mom, Stacy.

Understanding the Dangers of Pesky Grubs

BY RON FISTER

Plots of green turf, small or large, can be useful assets in our landscapes. They serve to blend beautiful shades of green against other colors of nature and gardens, providing a pleasant visual effect.

However, subsurface pests — many species of beetles, mainly belonging to one family — enjoy turf even more than we do, because turf roots serve as their food source, as well as a nice place to rear their offspring. Soil insects live in a rich environment of carbon, microbes, water and nutrients. Their grubs damage turf below the ground, and the adult beetles emerge in early- to mid-summer to cause additional damage to plants above the ground. This often is when we take most notice of them — when we see them feeding on roses, blackberries, grapes and crape myrtles, to name a few.

During that time, beetles begin to live out their life cycle by mating and laying eggs for the next season’s offspring. Turf is an ideal home for their reproductive cycle, as rainfall, hot weather and dry conditions do not slow the process.

From late May through June, the soil-inhabiting insects begin their metamorphosis from grub (larvae, third instar) to adult beetles as they emerge from the thatch layer of turf.

Regardless of the specific beetle, the grub larvae stages are similar in appearance, ranging from ½-inch to ¾-inch long. They are white to grayish in

color, with brown heads and six distinct legs. And they are characterized by the C-shape position in which they feed on turf roots.

You might see them in landscape environments as you begin to get active gardening in the spring. Severe infestation of grubs feeding on turf roots can produce stressed turf, which causes sod to turn brown and die. However, don’t confuse dying turf from grub damage with winter diseases in the turf.

Generally, grub damage is not noticed until the late winter and early spring as we walk across our lawn and notice spongy surfaces caused by moles tunneling through the lawn searching for grubs.

Controlling these subsurface insects in the spring can be costly and have negative effects on the environment. The ideal time to treat the beetles (grubs) that harm turf is August and September, after egg laying

or the first instar (the developmental stage after hatching) of the insect.

There are various granular insecticides to use for control of white grubs, Japanese beetle larva, European chafer, Southern chafer and billbugs. The University of Georgia’s recommendation is to look for the following active ingredients and brands when choosing an insecticide:

• Carbaryl — Sevin and other brands.

• Dinotefuran — Safari 20SC by Green Light.

• Trichlorfon — Dylox and other brands.

• Imidacloprid — Merit and other brands.

• Halofenozide — Mach II, Grub B-Gon and other brands. Read the label for application instructions. Water the lawn before application of any controlled material, and water thoroughly following insecticide application.

Dig Deeper:

• https://bit.ly/446Xtc5

• https://bit.ly/3JJvVkZ

The white grub life cycle, courtesy of blog.nutrilawn.com.

This stage of white grubs does damage to turf roots.

Ron Fister, Cherokee County Master Gardener, holds degrees in botany and biology. He worked in the agriculture, turf, nursery and industrial rights-of-ways markets. Email questions to info@ cherokeemastergardeners.com.

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How to Keep Kids Safe From Predators

BY CHARLICE BYRD

In today’s brutally divided political environment, where both sides agree on very little, I’d like to think that we can all agree that nothing is more precious than the life of a child. Whether that child is in the nurturing embrace of a loving family, or unfortunately lives without the support and protection of his or her family.

Sadly, there are too many children in Georgia who are without a family. Georgia has approximately 13,000 children in foster care each day, with approximately 330 in Cherokee County, some of whom sleep in hotels due to not having a permanent home. In many cases, it’s far worse for these children than just not knowing their family or having a permanent place to live and grow up.

The Center for Public Policy of Georgia found that 46.7% of suspected or confirmed female child victims of domestic sex trafficking ran away from a group home or foster care placement. This is heartbreaking. Furthermore, access to social media and cell phones raise the risk of exploitation through recruitment by predators.

According to the Child Sexual Exploitation Team, every city in America is under siege by predators seeking to exploit our children. Online access has created a pipeline for them to recruit children through social media sites where juveniles are often seeking innocent interactions. Tactics such as “liking” a photograph and posting “flattering comments” are often a way predators

initiate conversation with children. For youth who long to have someone who understands them, predators wait behind the screen to seek out vulnerabilities before exploiting them.

Parents and caregivers must keep lines of communication open and know the signs of a child who is involved in one of these predatory relationships. Checking phones daily, to ensure children’s passwords are known, is a critical piece of keeping today’s generation safe. Blocking cash apps, routinely checking unknown numbers from the call log against a reverse lookup and knowing all friends that are communicating with your children are first steps in preventing opportunistic individuals looking for a target.

However, direct intervention is only the tip of the spear in this battle against exploitation of children. It is so important to help create and provide safe home environments. Providing a safe place to live and the valuable life skills to live a healthy and productive life are vital to keep children safe.

Rep. Charlice Byrd represents Georgia House District 20. If you have any feedback, call 404-557-2218, email charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov or engage on Facebook.