9 15 aw web final by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

WellStar and Mayo Clinic. Working together. Working for you. Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer now that we are a proud new member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise of Mayo to our patients. As the first and only member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in metro Atlanta, our depth of specialty care will be enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping patient care right here at home. Innovation. World-class care. WellStar. For more information, please visit wellstar.org/mayo. For physician referral, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).

The vision of WellStar Health System is to deliver world-class healthcare through our hospitals, physicians and services. Our not-for-profit health system includes WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center (anchored by WellStar Kennestone Hospital) and WellStar Cobb, Douglas, Paulding and Windy Hill hospitals; WellStar Medical Group; Urgent Care Centers; Health Parks; Pediatric Center; Health Place; Homecare; Hospice; Atherton Place; Paulding Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; and the WellStar Foundation.

We believe in life well-lived.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

September 2015 Volume 2, Issue 11

14 Back to School

Lots of smiles on the faces of Cherokee students.

18 The Faces of Woodstock

Highlights of summer concert, and Woodstock’s National Night Out.

24 Pooch Pleasers

Toys, apparel and bathing products for your discriminating pup.

25 A County-wide Effort

“Champion” is the most recent movie embraced by Cherokee.

26 Everyday Angels

Accident in Alabama ends baseball career of Etowah grad.

32 Check out Local Libraries

More than just books available this month at your neighborhood library.

39 Meditation Garden

Create a special place to spend your quiet moments.

42 Healing and Horses

At-risk youth learn to trust at Healing Hands Youth Ranch.

59 A Letter from Mom

Canton mother shares advice she gave her three children.

Contributing Writers Chantel Adams Don Akridge Bill Bingham Siobhan Brumbelow Michael Caldwell Cherokee Office of Economic Development Bonnie Clark Claire Frost Ann Garvin Delia Halverson Dr. Scott Harden Dr. Jan Henriques Beth Hermes Jenna Hill

24 46 44 28 30 25 59 34 58 34 50 50 23 21

In Every Issue Dan Hultquist

Around Woodstock

Jim Imbriale

Birthdays

Toni Ann Isles

Sean Kaufman

Venessa Lanier

Dr. Mike Litrel

Community Calendar

Rob Macmillan

Everyday Angels

Dr. Scott Miller

Dining Guide

Matt Neal

Premier Group

School News

Susan Schulz

Recent Home Sales

Jessica Leigh Smith

Parking Map

Jodi Tiberio

Greenprints Trail Map

Lynne Watts

Advertisers Index

Community News Downtown Photos

www.AroundWoodstockMagazine.com

36 & 37 On the Cover Woodstock Pediatric Medicine Photo by J King Images. 2

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

ADVERTISING questions and comments Join the Around Woodstock magazine fan page www.facebook.com/AroundWoodstockMagazine Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 www.twitter.com/AroundWoodstock Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

AROUND WOODSTOCK The People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Woodstock What’s New Brantley Day is the new community development director for the city of Woodstock. He is replacing Jessica Guinn, who left to become assistant city manager in Dunwoody. “We are certainly excited to have Brantley coming on board with Woodstock,” said City Manager Jeff Moon. “Brantley has a wealth of practical planning experience and his project management experience in his current position will be a welcome addition to our staff.” Vingenzo’s, located downtown at 105 E. Main St., Suite 100, has added new menu items, including aged Angus Porterhouse steak and roasted chicken. Sign up to be on the email list and receive information about weekly featured menu items: mail@vingenzos.com. Reservations are not required, but are recommended. 770-924-9133. www.vingenzos.com. Picasso’s Corner, located in downtown Woodstock at 9550 Main St., Suite 150, is under new management. The new owner, Brad Dalton, hopes to turn the business into a fully functioning art studio. Drawing and painting classes are currently offered and Dalton hopes to add ceramic and pottery classes. For more information, visit the website, http://picassoscorner.net/ or call 770-591-2707.

What’s Open The renovated Woodstock campus of Chattahoochee Technical College (CTC) opened in time for the fall semester. “The location of this campus will truly impact the Woodstock community,” CTC President Dr. Ron Newcomb said. “In terms of a public college in the county, we’re it. The population of Cherokee County is roughly a quarter of a million, and we already had 1,800 Cherokee residents taking one or more classes this past spring. I believe everyone will benefit from this updated campus.” Built in the 1930s, the campus sits on the former site of Woodstock Elementary School. The property was leased from the Cherokee County Board of Education in 2004, then deeded by the Board of Education to the state for use by the college in 2013. A community open house is scheduled for 4 p.m. Oct. 22. The campus is located at 8371 Main St. in Woodstock.

What’s Coming The grand opening of Pie Bar, 8720 Main St. in downtown Woodstock, is scheduled for Sept. 1. Coupons for a 10 percent discount will available in the shop Sept. 1 through 6. www.orderpiebar.com The city of Woodstock should break ground on the new Woodstock amphitheater in September, after the last concert 4

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

of the fall season. The venue will have a permanent bandstand, audiovisual equipment and civic lawn seating. The plan is to have it completed in the spring of 2016 before the concert series starts back up, according to Mayor Donnie Henriques. Truck & Tap is a unique restaurant concept conceived by PREP Atlanta, Cliff Crider and Barrel & Barley owner, Zach Yurchuck. It is scheduled to open in downtown Woodstock in mid-September and will feature rotating food trucks, craft beer and wine, nitro coffee and cane sugar sodas. Cliff said the space will feature indoor/outdoor dining in a relaxed atmosphere. The rotating food trucks will park out back and diners can sit at the counter or bar inside, or on the outside deck or yard. Truck & Tap will be in the spot formerly occupied by the barbershop, at 8640 Main St. Follow the progress at www.facebook.com/ truckandtap or www.truckandtap.com. Planet Fitness is planning to open a location at 299 Molly Lane, the site of the former Office Depot near Lowe’s off Highway 92 in Woodstock.

What’s Moved Nesnick Family & Sports Chiropractic has moved to 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340, Woodstock 30189. 770-516-2323. www.nesfamchiro.com.

Kudos!

The Woodstock Summer Concert Series has made the list for 10 Southern Spots for Free Live Music as compiled by Southern Living magazine. http://thedailysouth.southernliving. com/2015/07/15/10-southern-spots-for-free-live-music/ Woodstock has made the list on Money magazine’s 2015 top 50 Best Places to Live in United States. Woodstock is also the only Georgia city to make the list. http://time.com/ money/3984495/woodstock-georgia-best-places-to-live-2015/

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings

BB&T, 936 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 30189. www.bb&t.com. Cherokee Theatre Co., P.O. Box 5885, Canton 30114. www.cherokeetheatre.org. The Crest at Laurelwood leasing office, 10247 Highway 92, Woodstock 30188. http://crestatlaurelwood.com.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Woodstock. She has lived in Cherokee County for 28 years. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

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COMMUNITY BOARD The Around Woodstock Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board assists us in many ways that include serving as contributing writers, judging our annual Trailblazer award and providing valuable feedback. Kris McKeeth is team leader and visionary for The Premier Group Keller Williams Realty on Main Street in Woodstock, and has more than 25 years experience in real estate. She’s active in many community efforts that include her position on the Business Board of downtown Woodstock and as president of Etowah Foundation. Photographer Darleen Prem specializes in natural light portrait photography and enjoys dog, pet and family photography. She spends much of her time photographing local events for the city of Woodstock and is the official “unofficial” photographer for Woodstock’s fire and police departments. Darleen’s son serves overseas as an Army Military Police Officer. Ross Wiseman started Momentum Church in 2005 and still serves as head pastor. He draws from his experiences in more than 21 years of ministry and 19 years of marriage to challenge, inspire and instruct people in what it takes for better living, loving and laughter.

Renee Gable, a sales and marketing executive for Window Expert Tinting, volunteers for many committees that work to improve downtown Woodstock. She is an avid cyclist who aligned herself with Greenprints Alliance because of her desire to help create safe and natural trail riding experiences. Beth Hermes is a graduate of Auburn University’s School of Journalism and a professional writer for more than 26 years. Her writing has appeared in magazines, newspapers and online publications, and she has created marketing campaigns for corporations and nonprofits.

Woodstock AROUND

Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324 Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Assistant Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com

Around Woodstock, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in Woodstock and surrounding area by providing residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,500 free copies. Approximately 15,400 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,100 are placed in racks around the community. See page 71 for a distribution map. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Woodstock welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Woodstock is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015.

Suzanne Litrel is a young adult historical fiction author and doctoral student in GSU’s graduate history program. Suzanne resides with her family in downtown Woodstock, which she is very happy to call home.

Around Woodstock PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Dr., Ste. 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 Website: www.AroundWoodstockMagazine.com Powered by

Volume 2, Issue 11 6

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Celebrations!

Steven Marcus Carpenter

Age 25. What a handsome responsible young man you Age 25 on Sept. 30 have grown into! I love you Happy birthday We love you! and I am so proud to have you Love, your other family, as my son. Happy birthday the Segers Boo. Love, Mom

Jacob Branam

Sarah Ashe and Ryon â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biscuitâ&#x20AC;? Thompson Engaged on July 4 Congratulations!

Kyle Vest

Age 6 on Sept. 1 We love you! Mom, Dad and Nicole

Happy Birthday, Travis Sept. 24 Love, the Segers and the Thompsons

Meghan McGarity

Age 10 on Sept. 29 Happiest Birthday wishes to You! Love, Nathan, Mom and Dad

Happy 15th Anniversary on Sept. 9 to the guy who still keeps me laughing! I love you! Cyndie

Delana Schmidt Age 11 Happy birthday!

Scott and Debbie

Celebrating 36 years of marriage on Sept. 27. Happy anniversary, Dad & Mom! Love, Brooke

Aiden Thomas

Age 8 on Sept. 18 Happy birthday, Aiden Joel. Always my #1. Love you to the moon and back! Love, Mom

Navaeh Kring

Age 1 on Sept. 17 Happy birthday to our sunshine! You are our greatest blessing sweet girl. We love you more and more each day. Mommy & Daddy

Happy 13th Riley on Sept. 15

Happy 11th Dylan

on Sept. 23 We love the young adults you are growing into! Love, Mom and Dad

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Brittaney and Chealsey

Happy 20th birthday! You are beautiful young ladies and make me smile every day. Keep up the good work! I love you to the moon and back! Love, Mom AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

E-mail to: Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com October deadline is September 10. Please specify: Around Woodstock, TowneLaker or Sixes Living.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS It’s Fair Time

The North Georgia State Fair is coming to Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta Sept. 24-Oct. 4. New this year: all shows free with admission price. Special guests include Mark Wills, Kellie Pickler, Dustin Lynch, Danny Gokey and Eric Paslay. www.northgeorgiastatefair.com.

Picture supplied by Gwen Massey.

Pork & Torque BBQ and Car Show Car and barbecue enthusiasts are invited to the third annual River Church Pork & Torque BBQ, Car Show & Festival Fundraiser on Oct. 3. About 100 cars, trucks, bikes and other cool rides will be on display from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trophies will be awarded for competition. Raffles, kids play area, vendors, barbecue, treats and fun nostalgic music will also be available. For more information, call Zach at 770-265-6601 or Walt at 770-380-2121. For vendor space, contact Rita at 678-602-1532. The church is at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. www.riveratlanta.org.

Back-to-School Bash a Success Close to 4,000 backpacks were given to children in need through the 10th annual Give a Kid a Chance - Cherokee back-to-school bash held on July 18 at Hillside United Methodist Church and First Baptist Canton. The one-day event was made possible with the help of more than 500 volunteers distributing: • 9,200 pieces of socks and underwear • More than 6,000 books • Hot lunch of hot dogs, pizza and birthday cake • More than 200 haircuts • 1,768 Bibles • 1,115 medical screenings • 1,000-plus stuffed animals Volunteers helped families pick out outfits of nearly-new clothing.

More than 31 churches and countless business and civic organizations donated backpacks and supplies for the children. The mission of Give a Kid a Chance is “Helping children in need help themselves to a better education and a better future.” For more information, visit www.giveakidachance.org.

First Baptist Canton’s supply of 1,622 backpacks, ready for eager students.

Pay it Fur-ward Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency will be collecting donations for the Cherokee County Animal Shelter. Deadline for donations is Sept. 14 and they can be dropped off at the recreation center in Woodstock, 7545 Main St., Building 200. For more information, contact Lindsey Collett at 770-924-7768 or lcollett@cherokeega.com. Items needed: • paper towels • equine pine bedding pellets • dryer sheets 10

• dry dog food • dry cat food • hand sanitizer

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

• Scrubbing Bubbles • Clorox Green Works

Another Way to Give Back The Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program has affiliated with Give an Hour, a national nonprofit organization providing free mental health services to military members, veterans and their loved ones. Nearly 7,000 licensed mental health professionals have provided more than 163,000 hours of care and support to those in need. To learn more, visit www. giveanhour.org or www.connected.giveanhour.org. Mental health professionals interested in joining Give an Hour can complete an online application form at www.giveanhour.org, and a Give an Hour representative will follow up with further details on the registration and orientation process.

MUST Serves Record Numbers This summer, MUST Ministries served 92,868 lunches to children in Cherokee County, with the help of individuals, civic and church groups and businesses. The total number of lunches delivered through an eight-county region was 303,524. Since the program began 20 years ago, more than two million meals have been distributed. Volunteers helping with the summer lunch program make and deliver lunches to at-risk children who may be missing a meal that they would otherwise get during the school year. Four host sites in the county were established as drop-off points for donations of food and supplies, and the spot where lunches were made. Those sites were Heritage Baptist Fellowship on Highway 140 in Canton, New Life Church off exit 14 at I-575, Hillside United Methodist Church on Towne Lake Parkway in Woodstock, and Mountain View United Methodist Church on Jamerson Road in Marietta. “No matter what the needs are, it’s all supplied by donations. MUST does not buy food … these lunches came from people all over the county,” said Ranettia Beasley, summer lunch coordinator. “It starts with one person making one lunch for one child, and all of us working together is how the job Preparing lunches in assembly-line gets done.” fashion.

WE VOLUNTEER AND DONATE TO CHEROKEE SCHOOLS AND ORGANIZATIONS. BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT NEIGHBORS DO. Northside Hospital-Cherokee has given more than 10,000 volunteer hours and donated millions to Cherokee schools and charitable organizations. Because Cherokee County is not only the location of our hospital, it is our home. Most of our physicians and staff live right here. Our children go to school with yours and we shop at the local grocery stores with you. Since becoming part of the community in 1997, Northside Hospital-Cherokee is committed to keeping this county great. Because, after all, it’s our home, too.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS A New Place to Rest Downtown Woodstock has a new artsy bench that was bought with proceeds from last year’s Scarecrow Invasion competition. The bench was purchased from Wildcat on a Wing in Ball Ground, and is perched at the pedestrian crossing at the railroad tracks.

All Hands on Deck for Lake Cleanup Community residents are invited to take part in the Great Lake Allatoona Clean-Up that will take place from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 12. A volunteer appreciation picnic will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at Riverside Day Use Park, 513 Allatoona Dam Road SE in Cartersville. This volunteer-led initiative, in its 30th year, is a partnership of the Lake Allatoona Association, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and more than 30 local businesses. For more details or to volunteer, contact Dean Bourne at www.lakeallatoonaassoc.com.

Art Woodstock Plans Series of Community Input Meetings The public is invited to attend a series of community input meetings beginning 6:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at The Chambers in downtown Woodstock. Meetings will continue through October. The first meeting will provide an overview of the Art Woodstock mission, vision, process and timeline to create an art master plan. The strategic consulting team will answer questions from the audience. Members of other collaborative arts groups will also be present. All Woodstock residents, business owners and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and provide input. After this initial meeting, drop-in sessions will be held where attendees will see examples of public art, maps and possible installation locations, and be surveyed for suggestions of types of art and locations. These meetings will be 4-7 p.m. Sept. 10, at The Chambers; and 4-7 p.m. Sept. 15, at Mountain Brook Clubhouse (check website to confirm location). A public workshop will be 4-7 p.m. Sept. 17 at Deer Run West clubhouse. A meeting is planned for 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 13 at The Chambers to summarize information gathered at the drop-in sessions. For more information, contact Susan Wright at 678-899-0509 or wrightsusan277@ gmail.com. www.ArtWoodstock.org. www.facebook.com/ WoodstockPlanning.

Volunteers gathered at the awards ceremony were, from left: John Fuller, Betty Tenney, Pat Anderson, Jean Ballard, Toni Chapman, Kathryn Leach, Martha Hughes, Wanda Hollenbeck, Mary Lyle, Marlene Niedermeier, Venette Williams and June Webb.

Volunteers Honored for 1,000 Hours of Service The Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary recently honored volunteers who have achieved 1,000 hours of service and recognized the 2015 auxiliary scholarship recipients. “Our auxiliary volunteers work hard each and every day to serve the hospital, our patients and the community,” said Billy Hayes, CEO of Northside Hospital-Cherokee. “Their contributions are extraordinary; I appreciate all that they do.” The volunteers who were honored are: Pat Anderson, Woodstock; Jean Ballard, Waleska; Gail Billion, Woodstock; Toni Chapman, Woodstock; Linda Cornell, Canton; Bill Cornell, Canton; John Fuller, Woodstock; Kathleen Gossett, Canton; Margaret Harris, Woodstock; Wanda Hollenbeck, White; Martha Hughes, Canton; Stella Korowotny, Canton; Kathryn Leach, Canton; Vivian Little, Ball Ground; Mary Lyle, Alpharetta; Barbara Maksym, Waleska; Marlene Niedermeier, Woodstock; Betty Tenney, Woodstock; June Webb, Canton; and Venette Williams, Waleska. Recipients of the 2015 Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary Scholarship ($1,000 each) were Baylee Cart of Woodstock, and Courtney Knight and Amy McCloskey of Canton. The scholarship is open to auxiliary members, Northside employees or immediate family pursuing a health-related educational program as a student in an accredited college, university or health-related technical school. The Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary began serving the hospital and community in 1961 and is committed to service and education. Today, there are more than 80 active volunteers, Scholarship recipients Courtney Knight, who give more than 17,000 hours of service each year. For more information, 770-720-5282 or left, and Amy McCloskey with scholarship committee chair Sandi Taylor, center. nhcherokeeauxiliary.com. 12

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Woodstock Real Estate Update: June 2015 BY THE PREMIER GROUP

The summer real estate season has been a busy one this 481 in Cherokee County (compared to 387 in May). This year. These are the June real estate statistics for singleincreased activity in the market is typical for summer family detached homes in Woodstock and Cherokee County. months, when sellers and buyers alike are motivated to get The number of homes listed in Woodstock increased their real estate deals done and settled in time for kids to from 254 last month to 259 this month in Woodstock, and start back to school. Cherokee County saw an increase from 636 up to 659. Average days on market increased from 35 to 47 in Woodstock Real Estate Update: June 2015 Homes under contract increased more substantially, from Woodstock and from 49 to 54 in Cherokee County, probably 128 to 161 inThe summer real estate season has been a busy one this year. These are the June real estate statistics Woodstock and from 334 to 348 in Cherokee due to the fact that there were more homes on the market to County. compete with. The sales price to list price ratio held steady for single‐family detached homes in Woodstock and Cherokee County. The number at 98 percent for both areas, but actual sales prices dropped of homes sold followed suit, with 201 homes sold in June in slightly in Woodstock. Woodstock (compared to 144 in May) and

Woodstock

Cherokee County

# Homes Listed

259

659

# Under Contract

161

348

# Sold

201

481

Average Days on Market (DOM)

Average Sales Price to List Price (Ratio)

98 percent

$243,675/ $247,565 $252,764/ $257,058 Average Sales Price to List Price (Actual) The number of homes listed in Woodstock increased from 254 last month to 259 this month in Woodstock, and Cherokee County saw an increase from 636 up to 659. Homes under contract increased more substantially, from 128 to 161 in Woodstock and from 334 to 348 in Cherokee County. The number of homes sold followed suit, with 201 homes sold in June in Woodstock (compared to 144 in May) and 481 in Cherokee County (compared to 387 in May). This increased activity in the market is typical for summer months, when sellers and buyers alike are motivated to get their real estate deals done and settled in time for kids to start back to school. Average days on market increased from 35 to 47 in Woodstock and from 49 to 54 in Cherokee County, probably due to the fact that there were more homes on the market to compete with. The sales price to list price ratio held steady at 98 percent for both areas, but actual sales prices dropped slightly in Woodstock.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Back To

Community

Aurora Clackum, Leah Schmid, Bella Walsh, Kylie Gibbs, Spencer Petrus and Nathan Woodall.

Kayla Ard, Woodstock High and Chase Ard.

Willow Bixler, kindergartener at Woodstock Elementary, with dad Mark.

Emma Tallman and Shelby Petrus.

Abbie Parkes, Woodstock High, and Delilah Parkes, Woodstock Middle.

Ten-year-old Bria McCready.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Students Riley Bowen, Julia Garab, Makenna Golden and Sarah Jade Blake.

Kyle, Emma and Ryan Tipper, fifth-graders.

Abel and Daniel Montelongo.

Seniors in front of the school.

The Burmeisters: fifth-grader Samantha, third-grader Drew and first-grader Graham go to Woodstock Elementary School.

School ! Students Michaela Keleher, fifth grade; Lila Hedlund, first; Grace Hedlund, fourth; Will Giles, fourth, and Owen Stubbs, fourth.

Lindsey McClelland is in eighth grade Woodstock Middle.

Hannah and Olivia Bryant.

Ava Azzarello and Tessa Cammarata Liles, seventh-graders.

Alex (senior) and Mallory (sophomore) Butler.

Ava Truesdale is a fourth-grader.

Maggie and Molly Messerly.

Maria Meyer.

Avery M. started first grade.

Zuri M., third-grader.

Kyleigh Wallace entered sixth grade.

Kenady (senior) and Weston Kilgore (sophomore) attend Woodstock High.

Students ready for the bus.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Back To

Community

Ben Hector and Ryan Machielsen, back row, and Kayleigh Gordon, Claire Dembickie, Laney Hector, Macie Schieber and Olivia Stockton.

Emma Eagle.

Mattie and Grace Truan, Caroline and Clayton Byars.

Juniors Blaine Miller and Brandon Marcus.

Trey Shaw, first grade, and pre-Kindergartener Olivia McNally.

Kira Latchford, pre-kindergarten.

Olivia Kirkland, third-grader.

Jack and Arianna Havens.

Sarah Norris, Alyson Audler, Julia Watkins, Autumn Broughton and Kennedy Anderson.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Fifth-grader Riley, second-grader Marin and Karis P., entering kindergarten.

Maya Tongue, fifth grade and Lily Tongue, Kindergarten.

Seniors Jordan Simonds, Kenady Kilgore and Sarah Norris.

School ! Emily, Madeline and Nicholas Sansone.

Madeline Dodd and Sydney Britton.

Fairways students are ready.

Jacob Donley heads off to school.

Cole Ellis, seventhgrader.

Riley Corona, Alina Frederick, Amanda Bucheit, Erin Whalen, Olivia Hare and Brittany Miller are seventh-graders.

Roman Ingram, ninth- grader at River Ridge High School.

Nick Azzarello, first grade.

Haley Gill, fourth grade.

Stella (kindergarten), Ryan (third grade), and Mia (second grade) Bustelo.

Sadie Warhurst, E.T. Booth Middle School, and brother Will.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Woodstock Summer Concert: The Rupert’s Orchestra PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

National Night Out PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Makeovers Add to Homecoming Fun BY JODI TIBERIO AND VENÉSSA LANIER

The fall season is the time of year when we look forward to cooler temperatures, wearing sweaters, watching football and the excitement of high school homecoming. Dress shopping is almost as fun as going to the dance. What’s more fun than looking at and trying on all the newest styles? Taylor and Lexi were invited to get their hair and makeup done at Salon and Spa Venessa, and to try on a couple of the new homecoming-style dresses at Brooklynn’s. There is something to suit everyone, from “cupcake” dresses with sparkle to more basic styles. Cupcake dresses, popular in the bright jewel tones, get their name from the swirly skirting made of tule. They often have some bling on the bodice in either a strapless or tank-style top.

Girls who want a sophisticated approach may select a “body con,” or body contouring style, which is a more form-fitting style, and tend to be available in darker colors. The Rising Star stylists at Salon and Spa Venéssa, Heather Henningsen and Kara Wood, decided to showcase some of the special occasion looks often requested by their clients. There are many unique hairstyles trending right now, including bohochic braids and retro-femme waves, as well as classic chignons, buns and twists. Today’s up-do style is definitely more textured, and not as “perfect” and smooth as it has been in the past. Kara’s makeover model, Taylor, has a beautiful, wavy texture to her hair; therefore, Kara used her texture to create a soft, braided up-do. The look is feminine, youthful and perfect for homecoming night. Heather’s model, Lexi, has silky blonde hair, so Heather created a wavy, side-swept ponytail and added a braid for texture - also a youthful, ideal style for homecoming. Esthetician Amy Chandler gave both girls a finishing touch of makeup using Aveda’s new fall palette, Sublime Spirit. The trend for fall is softto-bold; Amy chose a bold Blue Lotus eye color, and a softer lip color called Pink Clover. The look is fresh, beautiful and compliments Taylor’s dark hair and black dress. Lexi’s colorful dress also called for a bold eye and softer lips; Amy chose a nude Sandstone lip color for Lexi. Seeing the transformations of these two beautiful young ladies makes the fall season and Homecoming a time we can all look forward to. After having their hair styled and makeup applied, the girls went back to Brooklynn’s to look through all the dresses. Taylor tried on a black “body con” dress with a lattice-style top. She also liked the burgundy halter dress with the long slit. The one-piece aqua dress Lexi is showing off features really pretty sparkle detail, and has the look of a two-piece set. The price range of the Brooklynn’s homecoming dresses is $29 to $100. Shopping for a dress is a fun and memorable experience for friends and family. We hope everyone has the time of their lives this fall at the big dance!

Jodi Tiberio owns Branches and Brooklynn’s boutiques. Contact her at Jodi@tberioretail.com. Venéssa Lanier owns Salon and Spa Venéssa, and can be reached at salonvenessa@gmail.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Scarecrow Invasion BY JENNA HILL

As you start your drive into downtown Woodstock during the month of October, you will be welcomed by dozens of scarecrows lining Main Street − just in time for Halloween. Do you have a business or nonprofit that you want to advertise in a fun way along Main Street in downtown Woodstock? Here is your chance to become a part of the Scarecrow Invasion, by creating your own scarecrow and showcasing your creative skills. During the month of September, the Woodstock Visitors Center will be taking entries for this event. To enter, stop by the Center, located at 8588 Main St., pay the $20 registration fee and receive the rules and instructions for participation. There is limited space available for this event, so get your entry in early. Voting will also

2014 First Place: A New You

2014 Second Place: Arnold Mill Elementary

take place at the Visitors Center; just drop by any time during the month of October to vote for the scarecrow that you like the best. The votes are $1 each, and businesses with scarecrows may have voting set up in their store for their scarecrow. The winner will receive bragging rights and an awesome trophy. The proceeds from the Scarecrow Invasion will be donated to GROW, (Green Reaps Opportunity for Woodstock), the design committee for Main Street Woodstock. GROW members create and implement design initiatives for the downtown community. If you’ve noticed the beautiful landscaping and holiday decor along Main Street, you’ve seen their work. The money raised from this event will help make additional beautifications. If you have visited downtown lately, you may have noticed a new bench that looks more like a work of art. The proceeds from last year’s Scarecrow Invasion were used to purchase this beautiful bench. Let’s line the city streets with whimsy, fun and a little Halloween flair. The Scarecrow Invasion is open to everyone from individuals and families, as well as nonprofits and businesses. For more information, visit the Woodstock Visitors Center, or call 770-924-0406.

Jenna Hill is a Tourism Information Coordinator at the Woodstock Visitors Center. jehill@woodstockga.gov.

2014 Third Place: Thomas Eye Group

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Out & About Through Sept. 26

Digging for Treasure: A History of Mining in Cherokee County exhibit at the Cherokee County History Museum, 100 North St., Suite 140 in Canton. The exhibit explores many types of mining, beginning with the Gold Rush of 1829. 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org.

Thursdays in Sept.

The September Brown Bag Concert Series of free lunchtime concerts will take place noon-1 p.m. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24 at The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Bring your lunch and a chair and enjoy free music. www.woodstockga.gov.

Sept. 1

All That Glitters and More consignment sale for homecoming dresses, prom dresses, etc. will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at The King’s Academy, 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. The fundraiser is held for The King’s Academy varsity football and competition cheerleader teams. To be a consignor, call Valerie Hoover at 770-317-8726 to receive a seller number and packet. Drop off your items to sell from 9 - 11 a.m. on Aug. 29.

Sept. 4

The Great Downtown Tailgate, 6-9 p.m. in Woodstock. Wear your favorite team’s colors and come out for early autumn fun. www.woodstockga.gov. The First Friday theme in downtown Canton is Cherokee High School alumni night, with live music from the Sock Hops. 6-9 p.m. www.canton-georgia.gov.

Sept. 11

9/11 Day of Remembrance begins at 7 p.m. in The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. The Woodstock Jaycees and the city of Woodstock are hosting the event, which commemorates the 14th anniversary of the 9/11 attack with a service honoring those who died in the attack, as well as the men and women wearing police, fire and rescue uniforms. Doc Severinsen and his big band will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center. Severinsen was a regular on “The Tonight Show” for three decades. For ticket information, visit www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Sept. 11-12

The Georgia Master Gardener Association state conference will be held at the University of North Georgia’s Hoag Auditorium in Dahlonega. Guest speakers will be Sharon Collins of Georgia Outdoors and Kip McConnell of Southern Living, as well as Atlanta’s botanical expert Walter Reeves. www.georgiamastergardeners.org.

Sept. 12

Woodstock concert series presents Gimme Abbey, a tribute to the Rolling Stones and the Beatles (Satisfaction & The Return) at 7:30 p.m. at The Park at City Center, 103 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. www.woodstockconcertseries.com. Yard sale at Avonlea Apartments, 1000 Avonlea Place, Woodstock, will take place 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and feature antiques, jewelry, furniture, clothing, household goods, children’s items, books and more. More than 15 families are participating. For information, call Robin Bridges at 770-591-4603.

Sept. 12

The Cherokee Music Teachers Association will hold its first meeting for the 2015-16 season at 11 a.m. at the Cherokee Arts Center. Events for the year will be discussed over brunch. All visitors and those interested in the association are invited. For more details, contact Linda Lokey at linda@lokey.net. 22

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Sept. 12

Crafts show at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway a block off Main Street, Woodstock, will be held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ LatimerHallArtsandCraftShow. Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association meeting will be held 10:30 a.m.-noon in the educational center at Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park, 900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive. The topic will be the role of the Cherokee Indians in the Civil War. Speaker will be Robert Jones, president of the Kennesaw Historical Society. Meetings are free and open to the public. For meeting details, email Tony Harris at harris7627@bellsouth.net.

Sept. 19

Cherokee Fest, a fundraiser for the International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association, Noon- 7 p.m. at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Space. For details, 678-372-4321 or info@cherokeefest.com. Reinhardt University 5K for a Day with registration at 7 a.m., and the run/walk at 8 a.m. Pre-registration is $25, or $30 after Sept. 5. Proceeds will support Reinhardt scholarships for Cherokee County students. For more information, contact Dale Morrissey at 770-720-5506 or DSM1@Reinhardt.edu.

Sept. 20

Glorybound Quartet is hosting a concert celebrating the group’s 15th year in ministry at 6 p.m. at Canton First Baptist Church. Also featuring the Michael Lefevre Quartet, Aaron Hodges and ReNay Lee. www.gloryboundquartet.com.

Sept. 21

MUST Charity Golf Tournament at Pinetree Country Club is open to golfers, sponsors and raffle donations. For info, call Cara Reeve at 678-218-4513 or email creeve@mustministries.org.

Sept. 25-27

“Mayfair,” a play written by Joe Frost, will be performed by Reinhardt University’s theater students. For ticket information, visit www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Sept. 26

The Artisans Arts and Craft Show will be held at His Hands Church, 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock. www.facebook.com/ artisansartsandcraftshow.

Sept. 26-27

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival is scheduled for 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday at Boling Park, 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton. The juried show will feature more than 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, entertainers, children’s activities and concessions. Admission for ages 11 and older is a $5 donation. Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County. www. serviceleague.net.

Oct. 1

Hotlanta Dixieland Jazz will be in concert at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center. Featuring American Jazz songs from Fats Waller, Hoagy Carmichael, Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton, plus many old favorites. For ticket information, visit www.reinhardt. edu/fpac.

Oct. 2

Bobcat Boogie 5K and Fun Run is set for 6:30 p.m. at Bascomb Elementary School. Runners also can enjoy food trucks, games, and a DJ. Register at active.com and search for Bobcat Boogie 5K in Woodstock.

A History Lesson and the American Dream BY SEAN KAUFMAN

We are regulars at the Century House Tavern restaurant in Woodstock. Gustavo serves us with the greatest level of attention and care while Daniel (the chef) ensures the food is prepared exactly how we like it; he has also mastered the art of listening to us as we dine. Jon, who runs the front of the house, recently came over to our table with a smile and asked how we were doing. “Busy,” I said. “Been travelling too much and am heading to Chicago tomorrow.” My wife Jackie chimed in, “Then, Dubai and Malaysia…” pointing out that I am traveling a bit much for her liking. Jon empathized with the comment about how long international flights are. I asked, “You travel internationally often Jon, don’t you?” Kindly, Jon responded, “Actually, I am third generation Japanese, born and raised in the United States, and have only been to Japan once in my life. My grandparents gave everything up in Japan to chase the American Dream in 1907.” Intrigued by his story, I asked Jon if his grandparents had been affected by World War II. “My Mom was 5 years old when the war started. They were farmers in Washington, and one day, they were told they had three days to sell everything they had and pack a satchel bag. All they had collected and worked for during their 20 years in the United States was gone. My grandfather was singled out and taken away from my grandmother, leaving

her very anxious and upset. They were all taken to a camp and confined for three years.” “Wow.” I thought, and asked Jon, “What happened after the war was over?” He replied, “They were told they could leave the camp. They never regained what they had lost though.” Jon continued. “I used to mow my grandmother’s yard when I was a child. She didn’t speak much English, but I can still remember her saying proudly that the United States is the greatest country in the world! I asked my mom how grandma could feel such a way, considering all that had happened to her. My mother pointed out that my grandmother’s children had become doctors and lawyers, all of them educated and successful. This was something Japan would never have been able to offer them.” Today, as an owner of the Century House Tavern, third generation Japanese and a very proud American, Jon happily lives the American Dream with one heck of a personal history to share. His grandmother reminds us that we do live in the greatest country of the world! Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com.

“Busy” is a Four-Letter Word BY BETH HERMES

In my writing classes, I ask people to define words using something other than traditional, dictionary definitions. They may have to describe a word in terms of its size, or its color; they may imagine what its favorite food is, or what kind of car it drives; and often they must describe how it makes them feel. When I realized I felt overwhelmed and exhausted after three months filled with work, teaching, my daughter’s graduation from Reinhardt University and her subsequent trip to Greece, getting my son ready for his freshman year at Southern Poly-KSU, celebrating dozens of family birthdays, and… (let’s just call it a “very full schedule”), I turned the assignment on myself, and took account of the number of times I referred to myself as “busy.” I lost count. It was a lot. If a word can affect the way a person feels, I realized that always calling myself “busy” might be the reason I felt as if my life was spinning out of control. So I conducted an experiment: rather than say I was “busy,” I found other, more positive ways to refer to the things that were filling my days. At first, it was difficult to change the word that was so ingrained in my daily vocabulary; I was so used to saying it, “busy” would just slip out in conversation. After about a week, I became more conscious of what I was saying, and I switched out “busy” for other words, such as:

•abundant •full •satisfying •grateful •in-demand I noticed that when I replaced “busy” with a more positive word or phrase, I felt better, less exhausted, and definitely less overwhelmed; in fact, rather than feeling anxious when I looked at my calendar, I was exhilarated, more organized, and more focused than I had been when I was “busy.” Other people noticed, as well. As they began to replace their own “busy” words with more positive, grateful phrases, they said that they also felt refreshed, energized, and more optimistic. In our culture, “busy” is used almost as a badge of honor. When one is “busy,” he or she is viewed as driven, successful, and organized – even if he or she is miserable, tired, and anxious behind closed doors. It’s funny how changing something as simple as one word has such a profound effect!

For more than 26 years, Beth Hermes has written for magazines, newspapers and online publications. beth@eirismarketing.com. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Pooch Pleasers

AND DOGGIE DELIGHTS

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

On a warm spring day nearly four and a half years ago, we found our dog, Hammy...or rather, he found us. Before Hammy, I had never owned a dog in my life. Now, I can’t imagine life without that furry little cuddle-bug. He’s a ferocious barker, a compulsive licker, and every time I sit down to write, he parks himself right next to me. We are lucky to have him. He’s five solid pounds of stinky joy. In honor of Hammy, I’m featuring some fun products just for dogs plus a couple of our family’s personal favorites.

I didn’t even know Burt’s Bees made shampoos for dogs! I’ve given away many a gift basket filled with goodies for new babies, but dogs? What a find! Tuesday morning carries the entire line for just $6.99 a bottle. That’s nearly 50 percent off retail!

2. I’m embarrassed to admit that someone once told me my

house smelled like potatoes mixed with applesauce. Since then, I’ve invested in a wide variety of odor-neutralizing products. Thankfully, no one has ever told me that my house smells like wet dog, but if they do, I know where to find these soy-based scented candles. The blue serenity smells heavenly, but with more than a dozen scents to choose from, everyone is sure to find a scent they like. Get yours for $10.99 at BridgeMill Pets located next to the Publix on the corner of Sixes Road and Bells Ferry Road.

and with it comes cooler temperatures. One of my pet peeves is seeing dogs dressed as people, but if you’re into that sort of thing, BridgeMill Pets carries these adorable puffy vests. They’re reversible, too! Your bad-to-the-bone dog can totally channel his inner Marty McFly. Like totally. $16.99 and up.

I have four kids, so my walls are mostly covered with their adorable faces. However, we do love our dog, and since I like to treat all my children equally, I figured I could spring for this sweet little frame. Nothing says dog quite like a bone shaped photo frame covered in little black paw prints. If you’re looking for a gift for your favorite pet lover, look no further than Willow. It’s located at Exit 19, next to Five Below, in the Target shopping center. $11.95

I have no idea why a dog would want to play with a stuffed flea. It’s probably the same reason why my kindergartener wanted to play with the stuffed louse my best friend sent us as a joke the year her entire class literally “caught the bug.” Anyway, Hammy loves the flea. We have three sizes − small, medium, and large, and even a green-colored holiday-themed flea that wears a Santa hat. We have no shortage of fleas around our house. The weird thing is, when my brother’s dog comes to visit, she only wants to play with the flea, as well. I’ve got to think there’s something special about this insect. You can get yours at the local Publix for about $5. 24

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

3. Sept. 22 marks the beginning of the fall season,

Step Two to Becoming an Actor: Get an Agent BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

Here is the process for casting a film: The production team hires a casting director who helps develop descriptions of characters and pull out sections of the script (we call them sides) for auditions. That casting director sends the information to agents and asks the agents to send their top choices. From what the agent sends, the casting director chooses a small pool to audition. Then there are callbacks until finally one actor is cast. Very rarely does a casting director ever allow someone to audition who was not sent by an agent, so you can see the necessity of having an agent. You may want to know how to get an agent. I want to reframe your thinking and suggest you ask instead, “How can I get the right one?” You can search online in Atlanta alone and quickly find 10 or more agencies. Because of this, you can sign with an agent very easily, probably this week. But would it be the right agency, someone who can help you get auditions and jobs? Remember I said that casting directors ask agents to submit their talent? Those casting directors don’t ask every agent to submit: only those with a good reputation for having professional talent. Those agents can be picky, so submission could take six months or longer. Your job is to remain patient. Submit your best stuff to the agents, but don’t sit around waiting to be called in. Take classes. Do a community theater play. Watch professional theater. Taking classes is good for many reasons, but one great reason is it can introduce you to people who may help you land an agent. Maybe your teacher will be so impressed with you she will recommend you to an agent friend. Or maybe one of your classmates will put in a good word for you with his agent. Before you submit to an agent, do your homework. Get a list of films and TV shows filming in Georgia. Go to IMDb.com and look up those projects. Look at the cast lists for those projects and look for the actors that seem to be booking all of them. Look at the IMDb.com pages for those actors and find their résumé or read in their bios for information on which agency they are signed with. This is how you will find out which agencies in Atlanta have the most working actors. Now you have a small list of very reputable agencies in Atlanta. Some will be difficult to get into, but some are up-and-coming agencies in Atlanta. Their rosters are not quite as full, but they are respected and do get requests from the casting directors to submit actors. Then, research their websites. A reputable agent will never charge you money to read for him or her or to sign on. A reputable agency also never offers classes or headshots. When you look at the websites, don’t be taken in completely by the projects they claim their actors have worked on. Sometimes an agency’s roster is filled with background actors and they claim continued on page 70

Jessica Leigh Smith lives in Cherokee County with her family and is an actress and producer. JessicaLeighSmith.com and Facebook.com/NotFinishedInc.

‘Champion’ Cherokee’s film BY THE CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

We have all heard the saying “It takes a village to raise a child.” It’s a concept that also speaks true to the making of “Champion” the movie, the village being Cherokee County. The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) had the opportunity to spend some time on set with “Champion,” a faith-based film focusing on fatherhood, foster care and forgiveness. In the short time spent behind the scenes, it became abundantly clear that Cherokee County as a community had a huge role in bringing this project to fruition. “This is truly a Cherokee County production,” said producer Steve Hyland. “Since this movie was in the idea stages, our community has come together to make it happen.” In fact, Hyland could not have been more complimentary of the Cherokee individuals, businesses and churches that helped bring “Champion” to life. He explained that along with the sponsors that provided meals and snacks, the majority of investors in the film live in Cherokee. He also credits Dixie Speedway, Capital Race Cars and First Baptist Church of Woodstock for going above and beyond in order to make this film. “We couldn’t have afforded to tell the Champion story without the generosity of these local partners,” said Hyland. Even the fire department stepped in to provide some on-demand rain for a scene shot in Downtown Woodstock. Judd Brannon, “Champion” director, and Hyland first sat down with COED in 2013 to learn more about the Georgia Film Production Incentives offered by the state. Hyland said those incentives made a significant impact on this lower budget project. Gov. Nathan Deal has recently reported that the Georgia film incentives, which have been heavily promoted since 2008 to attract the industry, are here to stay. “We have enjoyed watching this film come together and were happy to help,” said Misti Martin, COED president. COED Chairman Marshall Day echoed Martin’s sentiments. “Cherokee has seen an increase in productions this summer— having a film like “Champion” that is a testament to Cherokee’s supportive community is unique,” Day said. The makers of “Champion” have filmed scenes all over the county, from Waleska to Woodstock. As filming for “Champion” wrapped up, it left Cherokee with a sense of collaboration and determination. As film scouts and producers look at Cherokee in the future, we can tell the story of “Champion,” where the community came together in the name of faith and partnership to make this film a reality. The film is expected to be released in the summer or fall of 2016. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.

Joey Hume, a 20-year-old college student athlete, understands the pain and devastation of personal loss too well. Over the past several years, he has endured the death of his grandfather and cousin, as well as the sudden loss of his longterm girlfriend, who passed away in a car accident. On July 1, Joey was dealt another life challenge to overcome. After graduating from Etowah High School in 2013, Joey received “Who would ever know the a full academic scholarship to greater graces of comfort Montevallo University in Alabama, and perseverance, mercy and was recruited to pitch for the baseball team. He had just and forgiveness, patience completed his sophomore year and was attending summer classes and courage, if no shadows when, on July 1, 2015, while fell over a life?” - Ann Voskamp playing disc golf with friends, Joey unknowingly ran into an unmarked Tracy has not left Birmingham since the accident and electrically charged area to retrieve the disc. A sudden bolt Joey’s dad drives back and forth each week since he must of shock entered Joey’s body through his wrist and exited his continue working to support his family. “Joey is fortunate to body through his thigh, knees and feet, causing third-degree be alive today and we are grateful. We often feel helpless and burns and severe muscle and nerve damage. Joey was rushed overwhelmed but understand that things could have been to University of Alabama Hospital, Birmingham (UAB). Tracy, much worse for our son and remain focused on that blessing,” Joey’s mom, vividly recalls receiving the phone call. “I had to says Tracy. There are many financial unknowns ahead. The hear his voice. I needed to know he was still alive,” she said. daily costs of hotels, meals and gasoline wasn’t something Joey was in ICU when his parents arrived in Birmingham. “It they had budgeted for. Everyday Angels would like to show the looked like gunshot wounds [where the electricity exited] from Hume family our love, support and encouragement by assisting the inside of his body and Joey was in excruciating pain,” says with these expenses. Everyday Angels will be accepting gas Tracy. Joey remained in ICU until doctors were certain his vital cards, food cards and funding for temporary housing for the organs had not been compromised or damaged. Since that family. Meanwhile, please include Joey and his parents in your day, he has undergone numerous reconstructive surgeries to daily prayers for strength and patience in the months ahead. repair his damaged muscles and nerves. There have been a few setbacks that have slowed the healing process, including collapsed veins and a blood infection. Once doctors repair his Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since muscle and nerve damage, they will proceed with numerous 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your skin grafts and intensive therapy. Joey has been in unbearable donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite pain, is barely able to walk and has limited use of both hands. 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will His baseball career is over. Joey will remain in Birmingham to go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to complete his surgeries for the next several months, followed by aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification. two years of rehabilitation. 26

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Rob’s Rescues This dog is Nora. She is a mixed breed terrier and is 1½ years old. She likes to run a lot and she likes to play. We threw sticks for her that she chased and chewed. The shelter said she would not be good for very little kids. She was fine with me and my brother. There are lots of kittens in the shelter right now. Some are playful and some are not. There are three older cats, an orange one, a gray one and a white one with different colored eyes. The white one is called Little Buddy. My friend Collins Puckett had an awesome birthday party and everyone bought dog and cat food for the Rob’s Rescues pet food collection bin.

Rob’s Rescues

now has a Facebook page!

I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Experience Elm Street It’s All in the Timing BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW

CITY CENTER • WOODSTOCK

SEPT 17-26

Thurs/Fri/Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

FALL BREAK WORKSHOPS ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251 28

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Summer is over and school is back in session! We are a month into our 2015-16 season and we’ve settled into our new series of shows quite nicely. “Curtains” premiered with a bang, and now we’re ready to cool down for the fall. But what shows make the cut? How does Elm Street choose its upcoming season? We put a lot of consideration into our choices. We ask ourselves if we can pull it off in our theatre space, if it’s relevant to our community, and how we can engage our audience through this particular show. A huge factor in Elm Street’s selection process is timing. There are many shows that are specific to themes and environments. What’s appropriate during Christmas time may not necessarily work in the summer. Also, it would be senseless to produce three up-tempo cheery musicals back-to-back-toback. There has to be some variety and overall balance to engage our audiences. “Curtains” was chosen to kick off our season with flair and pizazz. As we continue into autumn, we thought it would be innovatively challenging to produce a play that would dramatically counter a fun, upbeat musical. “The Crucible” was selected to follow “Curtains” as part of Elm Street’s Main Stage series for a variety of reasons. It’s a recognizable dramatic piece by Arthur Miller, which most of our community has either read or seen. It’s the perfect complement to the fall season as it takes place during the Salem witch trials. We wanted to encourage Cherokee County Schools to plan their field trips, assist with performing arts and literary education, and observe some excellent local talent in the North Atlanta area. “The Crucible” will run Sept. 17-26. We strive to engage our community with relevant experiences every day. We choose to explore different aspects and types of theatrical performances. From upbeat musicals to dramatic plays, from familiar children’s literature to an edgy rock musical — each show in the 2015-16 season has been selected based on many factors. If you haven’t seen Elm Street’s series of shows and events, visit our website at www.elmstreetarts.org.

We strive to engage our community with relevant experiences every day. We choose to explore different aspects and types of theatrical performances.

Siobhan Brumbelow is on staff at Elm Street. She currently holds a BA in Theatre from Brenau University and toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre.

Fall Means Fabulous Festivals BY LYNNE WATTS

Are you craving a warm funnel cake or an apple dumpling? Do you love exploring local history, or the local musical scene? Do you enjoy browsing the latest creative arts and crafts? Nothing says fall like festivals, and this year, there is a festival with something for nearly every interest. The 47th Annual Yellow Daisy Festival is a tradition that has grown from a small arts and crafts show to an annual international event at Stone Mountain Park. From Sept. 10-13, festival visitors can walk the wooded trails of the park and shop the booths of more than 400 craft artists from 38 states and two countries. A Children’s Corner and crafts demonstrations are sure to entertain the kids, as well. There’s even a Men’s Den, complete with a big screen television for sports fans who don’t want to miss a game. www.stonemountainpark.com/events/yellow-daisy-festival. The city of Kennesaw hosts the Taste of Kennesaw festival on Sept. 12, with more than 40 restaurants participating. The festival includes activities for children, a beer garden and a cookoff with local aspiring culinary contestants. www.kennesaw-ga. gov/event/taste-kennesaw. Cartersville hosts the 40th Annual Rose Lawn Arts Festival Sept. 19-20, on the grounds of the Rose Lawn Museum, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion in downtown Cartersville. Rose Lawn was once the home of the evangelist Samuel Porter Jones, for whom Nashville’s Union Gospel Tabernacle, now the

Ryman Auditorium, was built. Visit the many fine arts and crafts booths or take a guided tour of the historic house. www.roselawnmuseum.com/festival. The Marietta StreetFest, held Sept. 19 at the Marietta Square, is an annual fundraiser for the Marietta Museum of History. Stroll through arts and crafts booths, visit the museum for free, or check out the car show during the Hubcaps and History Cruise-In. Children will enjoy the free activities in the Children’s Zone. Make a day of it, and stay until Saturday evening, when you can enjoy local talent playing at the Marietta Grassroots Music Festival. www.mariettahistory.org/marietta-street-fest. Journey back in time as the Atlanta History Center hosts the Fall Folklife Festival on Sept. 26. Tap your foot to the sounds of musicians performing bluegrass and folk music, while sampling local cuisine from Atlanta-based food trucks. Listen to lectures on everything from the history of moonshine in Georgia to the art of gourmet pickling, and enjoy Johnnie Gabriel’s southern baking demonstration. You might even get to sample a delicious peach dessert. www.atlantahistorycenter.com.

Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and a retired Cherokee County School District counselor. She can be reached at www.lynnewatts.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Bizarre Taxes and Unexpected Effects BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

We all know government can be dumb. One area in which government often exhibits this trait is forms of taxation. It is the lifeblood of the behemoth, and the monster gets very serious about it. Because of that, I found myself on a fun research journey this week. It started with an article I read about Britain’s “window tax.” In the late 17th century under the reign of King William III, Britain found itself hurting for cash. Between wars abroad and a continuously troublesome Ireland, the royal coffers were depleting rapidly. As nearly every government has over the course of human history, the monarchy turned to a form of property tax to answer this need. This bizarre property tax wasn’t levied on the land or the entire structure, and wasn’t even necessarily charged to the owner of the abode. It was a tax on the number of windows in each home and was charged to the resident. The logic was relatively simple: the more windows, the larger the house. As with most taxes, it started only on homes with more than 10 windows (Have you started counting the windows on your home yet? I did.), then shifted to those with six to broaden the base, etc. etc. The eventual result? Homeowners began to brick up their windows. In fact, this tax on windows lasted until 1851 and caused some severe health issues in Britain. In a time when hygiene and cleanliness weren’t what they are today, blocking out the fresh air from one’s home could have some dramatic effects. Who could have guessed that a tax on windows could lead to health issues? Government, in its haste to fill the tax coffers, rarely stops to consider the long-term effects of its decisions. This sort of silliness may happen across an ocean, but it certainly couldn’t happen here in our United States, could it? Here are just a few of the most ludicrous taxes I was able to find this week. In Tennessee, the state government charges what is known as a “crack tax.” Illegal drug dealers in the Volunteer State are subject to a sales tax on the illegal substances they sell. It is levied per gram, and has been valued for each substance. For example, a gram of illegal marijuana will set you back only $3.50 in state tax, while a gram of meth will set you back $200 in tax. How do they enforce collection? If you’re finally arrested for your illegal activity and can’t prove you’ve been paying the taxes, additional seizures and penalties are levied. The most surprising part? They raised nearly $1.5 million on it a few years ago!

In New York, you can’t leave town until you’ve gotten a genuine New York bagel. However, when you buy that bagel, you may want to think twice about having them put anything on it for you. Bagels that are sliced are subject to an additional eight-cent tax at the register, while those that remain whole are left untaxed. How about an example from our beautiful Georgia? Along with our new title ad valorem tax on vehicles a few years ago, we failed to provide for what happens when a new resident moves to the state. That means you could pay your sales and title taxes in Tennessee, move to Georgia three days later, and by moving here you are now on the hook to pay 7 percent of the value of each of your vehicles in tax again. This (often many thousands of dollars) fee has become lovingly known as the Welcome to Georgia Tax. How would that affect your decision making if you were considering moving to Georgia? As you can imagine, there are thousands of taxes across the codes, rules and laws in our states. When government doesn’t consider the long-term effects on behavior and economic activity of the taxes it levies, the results can be devastating. What are some of the craziest taxes you’ve seen around the world? If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out to me on my cell phone at 678-523-8570 or email me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You can also meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

There are thousands of taxes across the codes, rules and laws in our states. When government doesn’t consider the long-term effects on behavior and economic activity of the taxes it levies, the results can be devastating.

Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael@ CaldwellForHouse.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770592-6056 â&#x20AC;˘ downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz

Presentation: Sept 25 Topic: Georgia Tourism Speaker: Andria Godfrey, Director of Tourism Research Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Community

Library Events Sept. 12

Wildlife expert Beth Thomson, 11 a.m. Hickory Flat Public Library. See four live birds of prey, including a hawk. Learn about the physical attributes, hunting and nesting habits. Families are welcome. A large crowd is expected and seating will be limited to the first 60 people. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 770-345-7565.

Sept. 17

Discuss Healthy Aging, 11 a.m. Woodstock Public Library. Speak with a health care professional from WELLSTAR to learn how stress can affect your health and receive tips for handling stress effectively. Register for this free program by calling 770-926-5859.

Sept. 19

Chess & Chat, 1 p.m. R.T. Jones Public Library. An informal chess group that meets once a month. Chess sets available to use. No need to register, just drop by and see who is interested in playing a game. For more information call 770-479-3090.

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Sept. 21

Grandparents Get Groovy, 10:30 a.m. Rose Creek Public Library. Grandparents, celebrate your day with a Pete the Cat Groovy Grandparents Day Celebration. Bring your grandchildren and celebrate how cool you are. There will be games and other Pete the Cat-inspired activities. Registration is recommended but not required. Register by calling 770-591-1491. Bad Art Night, 6 p.m. R.T. Jones Public Library for teens ages 12 and older. Join us as we create the worst art imaginable. No skills required; all materials provided. There will be snacks, laughs and prizes for the best bad art. For more information call 770-4793090, ext. 233.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Lifestyle

TGIF: The Sounds of Family Night BY CLAIRE FROST

The term TGIF has a nostalgic meaning for those of us who were kids during the era of primetime Friday night programming of the same name. The lineup of shows underwent a few changes and adjustments in scheduling, but the laugh-track, family-centric themes remained the same. “Family Matters,” “Step by Step,” “Boy Meets World” and the like filled my living room every Friday for years. Today, shows like Pepperoni “Modern Family” come Meat Monster close, but nothing can replicate the two hours • Spread tomato sauce on the pizza of familial bliss of TGIF … crust, and sprinkle your choice of not in my book anyway. Italian spices. It was during these • Place sliced fresh mozzarella evenly Fridays that my family around the pie. (Space it out. When often gathered in the it melts, it will spread.) living room for dinner, • Top with pepperoni slices and rather than the kitchen. shreds of pancetta. My sister and I sprawled • Sprinkle lightly with shredded out on the floor in the Parmesan cheese. coveted, normally offBake according to the directions limits space right in front on the package of the type of pizza of the TV, to eat one dough you choose. of every kid’s favorite meals: pizza. Mom and

White ‘Shroom Goddess • Brush pizza crust with extra virgin

olive oil and sprinkle with balsamic Dad, finally relaxed after vinegar. a long work week, sat on • Place sliced fresh mozzarella evenly the couch above us with around the pie. their pizza plates in their • Top with sliced baby bella laps and we watched TV mushrooms. together. As a family, we • Sprinkle lightly with goat cheese laughed, talked, watched crumbles and shredded Parmesan. • Over the entire pie, add strips of and lovingly refilled each fresh basil. others’ drinks and plates. It was a modern day, Bake according to the directions though now a little retro, on the package of the type of pizza Norman Rockwell dinner. dough you choose. There was never silence and there was always laughter. Now I’m not sure how much my parents actually loved these shows, but something about them stayed with us. (My sister, regrettably, still calls me Urkel. I’m not sure why.) Just mention

continued on page 70

Claire is the editor of House of Frost, a blog juggling family, fashion, food and furnishing with a little sparkle. HouseFrost.com.

Senior Sense Loving, Liking, Hating and Enduring BY DELIA HALVERSON

I’ve learned the difference in loving and liking, hating and enduring. In fact, people often speak of “loving” something. In the dictionaries I’ve checked, to love usually refers to a person and to like can either be a person or an object or activity. I think we use the word “love” too loosely. When we say, “I just love ice cream,” it leaves no room for any greater emotion. We’ve hit the top! In the same manner, we speak of hating something (or someone) when we really mean that we don’t like it, although we could actually endure it. Hate is actually a very powerful word, but we also use it loosely. My mother, Edith, told me of her experience with washing dishes. Of course this was well before dishwashers, or even good quality dish soap. She said she complained about washing dishes, and her mother told her she could quit washing dishes when she enjoyed the chore. Finally, Edith learned to endure washing dishes and told her mother that she enjoyed washing dishes. Her mother replied, “That’s fine.” Edith said, “You told me when I got to where I liked washing dishes I could quit.” Her mother’s wise response was, “If you really enjoyed washing dishes you would not want to quit.” The same is true with hating and enduring something. We may hate something and still be able to endure doing it. Enduring with a positive attitude can make a difference in 34

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how we get along with others. When I have a back ache I’m tempted to say I hate preparing a meal or sweeping the floor, but I can actually endure it. I try to do the chore without too much complaining so that others aren’t miserable. Sometimes this is hard, but it does make a difference in the atmosphere. Some years ago, I taught a middle-school class in church. I placed several items on a table and we discussed whether each item was a “necessity” or a “nice-ity.” Beanie Babies were the rage at the time. One girl insisted a certain Beanie Baby was a necessity. Here again was a misunderstanding of a word. We need necessities in order to survive in our given situation, but other things are nice to have but not necessary to live a full life. My dad was a stickler for using the right word. He loved the English language and insisted that we use the proper words. Perhaps I got my love for words and writing from him.

Delia writes books and leads workshops internationally. She and her husband settled in Woodstock after living in eight states. Their children and grandchildren live nearby.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Feature

Woodstock Pediatric Medicine

Quality Patient Care is the Primary Focus Jordanna Heaven, MD Adriana Rzeznik, MD Frini Shah, MD Maren Bear, MD Shannon Dobson, RN, CPNP Melanie Sprung, RN, CPNP

Lottie Dereimer greets patients.

or almost 20 years now, Woodstock Pediatric Medicine has treated patients in Woodstock and the surrounding community. That longevity has many benefits, among them the pleasure of caring for the children of former patients.

“This is such a great testimony of our dedication to patient care and to the community,” said Darcie Hunt, medical assistant. “We strive to provide the same level of care that we would want for our own families.” In fact, the majority of staff members bring their children and grandchildren for treatment to the practice. Woodstock Pediatric provides comprehensive well and sick child care to newborns and children from birth to age 21. The practice has four physicians:—Dr. Maren Bear, Dr. Jordana Heaven, Dr. Adriana Rzeznik and Dr. Frini Shah—and two certified pediatric nurse practitioners, Shannon Dobson and Melanie Sprung. All physicians are board certified in pediatrics and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Employees are members of the Georgia Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, Medical Group Management Association and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.

Hallie Turner consults with a parent.

photos by J King Images

Woodstock Pediatric Medicine 2000 Professional Way, Woodstock 30188 770-517-0250 www.woodstockpeds.com Woodstock Pediatric Medicine

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The Highlights 1. A privately owned practice. The advantage to patients is the lack of corporate red tape, and the involvement of an unfamiliar board of directors to make decisions on behalf of the physicians. While policies and procedures are in place to ensure a successful practice, managers of the practice are able to act immediately to address any needs that arise. “We see this as a major advantage to our patients,” said Gloria Escobar, patient representative. 2. Consistency. Many of the employees at Woodstock Pediatric have been with the practice for almost 15 years. The

consistency is comforting to patients and their families who see the same faces at each visit, and members of the practice believe it’s proof that the office is run efficiently and effectively. “If we are not good stewards of the people who care for our patients and who are the support pillars for our physicians and nurse practitioners, then how are we to expect our patients to receive quality care?” said Kelly Marulanda, practice manager. 3. Dedication. Providers are dedicated to serving the patients well, even if it requires having a difficult conversation. “This means that sometimes our nurse practitioners may have a challenging conversation with a mother who cannot recognize her child’s obesity or Dr. Bear may deny a request for an antibiotic because it simply would not help a virus,” according to Dr. Shah. “Currently, one of our most challenging discussions deals with parents who fail to recognize the importance of immunizations.” 4. Education. The providers take the time to educate parents on facts based on researched medical guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and from the exceptional medical educations they received from schools such as Emory University and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

Testimonials

• Parents bake batches of homemade cookies for the staff and providers “just because.” • One parent continues to donate to the American Cancer Society in memory of Dr. Jesenko Vukotic, a Woodstock Pediatric physician and founder of the practice who died in 2011. • Dr. Rzeznik was invited to the wedding of one of her former patients.

Jessica Parker updates a chart.

computers to the exam rooms, refining how appointments are scheduled, implementing a comprehensive vaccine policy and continuing to accept a large volume of insurances, including Medicaid. “With all of the changes currently happening with health care reform, we are happy to know we are still ‘making it’ successfully as a hometown, privately-owned pediatric clinic,” said Erika Walsh, a 15-year employee. The goal is not to be bigger, but to continue providing quality healthcare that will benefit patients and employees.

Success stories

• Seeing a patient walk into our office for a follow-up appointment after a long hospital stay. • Witnessing a child overcome an eating disorder. • Seeing a mother change her mind and begin vaccinating her child. • Experiencing a family who continues to drive from Atlanta to see Dr. Heaven, who treated the twin girls when she was a resident physician at Grady Memorial Hospital more than 14 years ago. “Our patients’ successes are our successes because we want to be with them at every interval, helping them in every way we can,” said Dr. Bear.

Growth Chart

With six providers and more than 25 employees, Woodstock Pediatric has expanded the office to meet the needs of a growing patient base. Processes have been streamlined to make each visit convenient and hassle-free, including adding

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Lifestyle

Practical Jokes on Neighbors BY MIKE LITREL, MD

One evening I was cleaning my kitchen when Sissy, my neighbor Yasmin’s mother, stopped by. Sissy lives in Florida now, but she grew up in Austria. Over the years she‘s cooked some wonderful Austrian cuisine for me and my family. She sometimes tells stories from her childhood during World War II, when Allied troops marched through her village on their way to Germany. Sissy had come over to say hello and to tell me about her new place in Florida. Earlier that morning, my wife Ann had removed four overripe bananas from the freezer to make banana bread. Their slimy forms lay defrosting beside the sink. They looked almost alive, glistening like huge black slugs. Inspiration struck. Casually I held a squishy black banana behind my back and walked around the counter. I interrupted Sissy. “Have you heard about the giant flesh-eating slugs?! They’ve been falling out of the sky in north Georgia.“ Sissy didn’t know the word “slug.” But as I began comparing slugs to worms and snails, describing the trails they leave, and the little antennae coming out of their heads, her eyes lit up with comprehension. “Oh yes – sloogs,“ she said in her Austrian accent. “I haf not heard about dees sloogs. Are dey dangerous?“

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With that prompt, I flipped the black banana toward Sissy. It slid across the counter, stopping directly in front of her. For three long seconds, she stared, uncomprehending. Then Sissy let out a piercing scream. “Eeeeeeeee!“ Ann came running from the other room. The boys ran up from the basement. Sissy was clutching both hands to her chest, her eyes wide with fright. What’s wrong? Ann and the boys wanted to know. But I couldn’t answer; I was laughing too hard. “Doktorr, doktorr,” Sissy finally sputtered, “feel my heart beat, it ees going so fast.” And it was, a little. But she began to smile, and within a minute, Sissy was laughing as hard as anyone at her being scared out of her mind by a soggy black banana. Yasmin loved the story. However, being a kindred spirit of mine, she was acutely disappointed that she hadn’t been there. “I would have LOVED to see my mom freak out!” continued on page 70 Dr. Mike Litrel, author of two books on faith-health connection, is a board certified OB/GYN and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshelth.com.

How to Create a Meditation Garden BY TONI ANN ISLES

Nature heals. Studies show that spending time outside decreases stress, blood pressure and feelings of anxiety and depression, and increases our immune system and sense of well-being. Combine this natural healing power with meditation, and you’ve got a serious recipe for wellness. Meditation or healing gardens are popping up all over in hospitals, spas and therapeutic centers. But you don’t have to visit a facility to experience an outdoor oasis. You can create your own meditation garden at home with a few key elements. Go green. Meditation gardens have one thing in common: greenery. The color green is soothing. It relieves tension and stress, so it makes sense to fill your sacred place with lush greenery. As an eco-bonus, choose plants that are native to your area. Get comfy. Meditation is commonly done in a seated or lying position, so pick a seating arrangement that feels best to you. Some prefer a cushion on the ground. Others favor a chair for back support. Choose whatever seating brings the most comfort and ease. Healing waters. Trickling water creates a soothing sensory experience and masks distractions. While they don’t drown out noise, still-water features like bird baths can attract wildlife. For some, simply communing with animals can be a meditative experience. A sacred entryway. Your garden’s size doesn’t matter. What does matter is that this space is designated as your own area for quiet reflection. Garden arbors, pergolas or large landscape stones at the garden’s entryway symbolize your passage from the chaotic world to a safe, sacred space. Light it up. Meditating outside provides exposure to natural light and vitamin D. Consider whether you enjoy meditating in direct sunlight or the cool shade. If you crave sunshine, choose a sunny spot but have an option for shade, such as a standing umbrella, to prevent sunburns. For evening meditators, try a glowing amber lantern. Meditation is personal. Your garden should reflect your unique version of tranquility. Maybe you prefer chimes over running water. Maybe a certain flowering plant inspires you. What matters is that your garden evokes personal serenity. Use whatever elements speak to you and reap the mental, physical and spiritual benefits of your very own meditative retreat.

You can create your own meditation garden at home with a few key elements.

Toni Ann Isles is a freelance writer, executive assistant, dog- and nature-lover, and amateur photographer. www.toniannisles.com. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Lifestyle

How to Buy a Home with a Reverse Mortgage BY DAN HULTQUIST

When I speak to homeowners, financial planners, and Realtors, the concept of purchasing a home with a reverse mortgage is completely new. However, the federally insured reverse mortgage, known as the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), was modified several years ago to allow it. Those age 62 and older can now purchase a new principal residence through the option known as “HECM for Purchase.” The Need. Older homeowners often find themselves wanting (or needing) to relocate to be closer to family members, downsize to a more manageable home, or even upsize to a retirement dream home on the beach, golf course or active adult community. A phone call I received recently is a common one: “My mother wants to move south to be closer to the kids and grandkids.” Having lived half my life in the North, I understand that southern living is attractive. Yet, when physical limitations become a reality, or when individuals desire a closer connection to family, a move becomes necessary. The Lender’s Contribution. With a traditional reverse, the lender can offer a homeowner a percentage of the home value to use as needed. With a HECM for Purchase, however, the funds are applied to the new home sales price. Depending on the age of the youngest participant, the lender is generally able to contribute 50 percent to 75 percent of the home value toward the purchase. When selling and relocating, this allows homeowners to retain

more cash reserves. Many will use the remaining funds to supplement their retirement savings. The Details. HECMs are specifically offered for a borrower’s “principal residence.” This means that: 1. The borrower must occupy the home within 60 days. 2. The HECM cannot be used for second homes or investment properties. Also, be aware that sometimes mistakes are made when a real estate agent writes the sales contract for a HECM. HUD’s guidelines related to new construction and seller-paid closing costs for reverse mortgages can be tricky, so make sure your agent works with an experienced reverse mortgage professional who can guide everyone through the process. Reverse mortgages have been labeled in the past as a way to fix a financial crisis. But as you can see, they are more versatile than that. Not only can they be used to buy a home, but the affluent use them as a form of insurance, tax liability management, and/or retirement planning. Dan Hultquist is a certified reverse mortgage professional and originator. He speaks nationally on reverse mortgages, and authored the top-selling book, “Understanding Reverse.” For information, call Dan at 404-992-7798 or visit www.understandingreverse.com.

Workers’ Compensation Claims – Getting Benefits BY JAMES IMBRIALE

At any given time, day or night, there are millions of people working, doing thousands of different jobs and tasks. Unfortunately, workplace accidents happen and workers get hurt. It happens quite often too – millions of times each year. On the upside, every state requires most employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their workers. In Georgia, a company with three or more employees is required to have workers’ compensation insurance. Typically, employees or their dependents are entitled to benefits for work-related injuries or death. In order for workers to receive these benefits, however, they must follow certain technical requirements. Although every state law is different, the claims process under most statutes is very much alike. Georgia requires that the worker notify the employer, in writing, of the claim within six months of the incident or the claim is barred forever. Keep a copy of it for your records. Usually only employees injured on the job may file a claim for benefits. So, your spouse or dependents cannot file a claim for loss of consortium (i.e. companionship), for example, because of your work-related injury, like one can in an auto collision case. In the case of a work-related death, however, spouses or children may generally seek death benefits and burial expenses. These benefits are designed to help fill the gap in the family budget left by the loss of income. So, as a general rule, these benefits typically end when the spouse remarries or dies or the 40

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children die. Generally, injured employees are entitled to medical expenses, lost wages or death benefits. The values decided for particular injuries are not as much as one would receive in an auto collision case, but that is the tradeoff for not having to prove liability on the part of the employer. Once an employer knows about a work-related injury or death, the employer will typically notify its workers’ compensation insurer. Two things may happen next: the claim is allowed, meaning the employer and the insurer may agree to pay benefits, and a notice of compensation payable will be sent to you; or the claim is denied. If this happens, you have the right to file a claim with your state’s workers’ compensation agency within one year from the date of injury. Please contact an attorney that exclusively does workers’ compensation law. In the case of an occupational disease, the limitations period may begin to run when you realize you have such a disease. Once a claim is decided, anyone unhappy with the result may file appeals in the state court system. For instance, you may appeal if you think you were entitled to more benefits or if you continued on page 70 James Imbriale and Jeff Yashinsky personal injury attorneys at Hartman – Imbriale LLP, have strictly practiced personal injury law for the past 24 years and work and live in Towne Lake. (678) 445-7423.

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Helping Hands

The Healing Power of Horses BY SUSAN SCHULZ

Scrolling down the Healing Hands Youth Ranch (HHYR) Facebook page, I stopped to look at a beautiful picture of a mare with her foal. The quote on the picture read, “A horse is the projection of people’s dreams about themselves: strong, powerful, beautiful.” As I clicked the share button, I thought about the bond between humans and horses. Horses have played a key role in our progress. In the beginning, they increased our mobility, but as time marched on, our relationships with horses went much deeper. These deeper connections go on at the HHYR every day and are quite extraordinary; I discovered this by watching the young people who visit the ranch as they develop relationships with the horses. The visitors overcome fears, build trust, respect, and self-confidence, improve communication skills and problem solving, learn coping techniques, and learn how to set appropriate boundaries. One mentor, one student, and one horse meet together for 12 weeks, and when they are done the student has the courage and strength to apply these skills to all areas of life. This has been the dream come for HHYR’s founder, Jennifer Golfing Fundraiser true Simonis. She incorporated the Registration begins ranch in 2008, moved onto at 9:30 a.m., with a the Waleska property at 114 shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. Addington Lane in 2010, and Oct. 23 at The Highlands Course has been mentoring youth ages at Lake Arrowhead, 10 to 18 since 2011. With the 486 Arrowridge, Waleska 30183. Awards ceremony and help of dedicated volunteer buffet dinner at end of mentors, the ranch serves 10 the tournament. students per semester. The mission is simple: pair kids who have lived troubled lives with intuitive horses that don’t judge and love unconditionally. The program is not about teaching children to become professional 42

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riders, but letting them share in caring for a horse, helping with chores, and having fun. The ranch experience helps children who have been hurt find that life can have purpose and hope. One young girl, who was abused by her father, came to the ranch lost and hiding in her shell. By the time she left, she was transformed into a lively, bright young woman. Another child who had been bullied at school applied what she learned from Chesney, the horse at the ranch known as “the personal space invader.” After experiencing a bullying episode at school, the child returned to the ranch for her weekly session. She ran to her mentor smiling from ear to ear and said, “I did what you taught me to do with Chesney — hold my shoulders back and speak confidently. When I did, the bully walked away and didn’t bother me anymore!” I heard one parent say that the program saved her daughter’s life. With the healing power of horses, dreams are fulfilled and young people become strong, powerful and beautiful. If you would like to involve your child in this lifechanging program call 770-633-4451. If you would like to help, there are lots of ways to get involved: tax deductible monetary gifts, training to help mentor the children, and a variety of chores, including shoveling horse manure. Even if you aren’t a “horsey kind of person,” you can write newsletters or Facebook posts, or build needed shelters. Jennifer continues to dream big. A new community building is now open for parent and sibling care. Jennifer would also love to add a covered arena so sessions can take place despite inclement weather. To help with growth, sign up to take part in HHYR’s 2nd annual Golf Tournament, set for Oct. 23 at the Highlands Course at Lake Arrowhead. For more information visit www.HHYR.org.

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Watermarke Church.

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Lifestyle

Remember to Parent BY BILL BINGHAM

Every parent wants to do better for their kids than was done by their parents before them. For my wife and me, that means sending our son to camp at a lake each summer. He makes the usual trek to camp for several weeks, then as the summer winds down, he goes to his grandparents’ place on the beach off Long Island Sound for two weeks. It’s a rough life he lives, but somehow he survives. After six weeks being away from home, our bright 11-year-old son texted me from Grammy’s house with a request that we send him more clothes. I couldn’t imagine that at Grammy’s of all places, every possible need he might have hadn’t been met. Upon further probing, I realized that it never occurred to him to tell his grandmother he needed his clothes washed. Wearing the same underwear for four days was, in his mind, the only logical solution. Somehow the magic maid fairy (aka my wife) hadn’t followed him to the beach this summer and he was quite put out at the result. As usual, he was very sweet and was trying to be self sufficient, but clearly there was a breakdown in the chain of command here and he was left alone, stranded off somewhere in the tall weeds on a rice patty armed with nothing but good intentions and dirty duds. Now here’s the funny part: for a split second my mind literally went into tech mode and actually thought, “Hmmm, how can

I automate this process? Some smart home device I can use to know automatically when the kid needs a wardrobe refresh. Okay. Sure. I can install the Do Button app on his phone and trigger a text to his mother....!” Will this work? Absolutely. Is it a gross distraction for both parent and child from actual, you know, parenting? Absolutely! Here’s a great idea. Why don’t I teach my son to be responsible by participating in the household laundry effort, like I did when I was 5 years old. Neither Mother nor the magical laundry fairy are going to follow this kid to college; let’s not use technology to hinder the transition. In this case, I’m happy to see tech lose out to parenting. Never fear, though, the school year has just begun. Of course, that’s just how I see the world. Your view may differ.

Why don’t I teach my son to be responsible by participating in the household laundry.

Bill, who lives in downtown Woodstock, owns several tech companies and often writes about being a new husband and father. bill@thenetaffect.com.

Stories of the Past BY MATT NEAL

When I was about 16, I sat in my grandmother’s house one Thanksgiving. She told me about her grandfather. He was only 15 when he joined the Union Army to fight in the Civil War. He was captured by some Texans who laughed at him for being too young, then told him to go along back home. After the war was over, he moved to Texas. He always said those Texans left an impression on him. Along the way he found some gold, fought bandits, rode with the Texas Rangers and had many more hairraising adventures. The story progressed from history to legend, and I almost asked if he’d had a blue ox. I bet anyone reading this can think of one or two stories that a parent or grandparent, an aunt or uncle has mentioned. Something like Great Uncle Jim who used to run moonshine in his trunk, or Aunt Betty who raised 18 kids, number seven having been born in the middle of the transatlantic crossing on a steamer. You don’t want to wait until it’s too late to try to get the facts and details on these stories. My grandmother was only too happy to share her stories, but I was too young to care. Now, in middle age, I wish I’d paid more attention. But genealogy isn’t normally a hobby young people care about. So now I find myself researching old documents, scouring old letters, trying to find pieces of information that Grandma could have just told me if only I had asked. I talked to 44

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other relatives, and I’ve heard wonderful stories from my mother and father, from aunts and uncles. However, there are so many gaps. They will say something alone the lines of, “Mama used to say this happened, but I can’t remember exactly what she said.” One thing I know about people is we all love to talk about ourselves. If you ask relatives about their past, they will usually tell you. So go right now and talk to the oldest members of your family. Get all that information straight from them. Tell them you’re writing about family history. Ask about their childhood, about their parents and grandparents, who they were, where they came from. It would be a wonderful surprise to them. I hope that when I’m that age, younger relatives take that sort of interest in me.

My grandmother was only too happy to share her stories, but I was too young to care.

Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at www. mattnealwriter@yahoo.com.

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Lifestyle

The Importance of a Life Insurance Audit Is it time to review your policy? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Life insurance is hard. It’s hard to know if you have the right kind. It’s hard to know if you have enough. And it’s hard to know if you need any at all. The insurance companies have made it even harder by coming up with bewildering names: whole life, term life, universal life. Some life insurance policies have a cash value while others do not. Some invest that cash value in the stock market while others pay a fixed rate of interest. Some insurance policies combine all of these ideas. A recent study by life insurance advocacy group LIMRA (previously known as Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association) discovered that most Americans thought a 20year $250,000 level term life policy for a healthy 30-year-old costs about $400 a year. In reality, annual premiums for such a policy typically run about $150. No wonder, as LIMRA noted, that 83 percent of consumers forgo buying life insurance. I see this misperception all the time. In addition, some people are paying for insurance that is not right for them.1 This is why it is important for you to sit down annually with an insurance professional to review how your policy works and how it will help you to protect your family. When you’re young, a certain type of policy is needed. As you raise a family and take on more responsibilities, your needs change. At some point—when the nest is empty or other life changes occur—there may come a time where

It is important for you to sit down annually with an insurance professional to review how your policy works and how it will help you to protect your family.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

you don’t need life insurance at all or you may desperately need it to protect your estate. Reviewing your life insurance policies is one way to make sure you have the coverage that is right for you and your family now. When is the last time you thought about your life insurance? Is it time to take another look?. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - lifehealthpro.com/2013/08/30/the-shockingstatistics-behind-the-life-insurance [8/30/13]

Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Grill Italian no $ $-$$ no Beer/Wine yes 9425 Highway 92 #100 770-672-6996 Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. American 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. Brunch 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar limited 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. Tea room 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s Italian no $$ $$$ closed Full bar yes 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com What A Dog Chicago style no $ $ open no no 9595 Highway 92 Hotdogs 770-485-3411 & burgers AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

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Attention Sciatica And Low Back Pain Sufferers……

Could One Hour With Our Doctors Give You The Answer To Your Disc Pain? Now, in Acworth, GA, Dr. Erin Arnold, D.C. & Dr. Amy Valente, D.C. have what may be the most important breakthrough in non-surgical back pain treatment. Before and after MRI studies have shown disc bulges shrink in size – even with the most painful cases of L4-L5 & L5-S1 herniations. If you’ve had disc problems for years, recently injured your back, or you’re suffering with sciatica, you must hear about these new studies. Scientific studies tell us that spinal discs are responsible for most of the aches and pains people suffer from. Discs act like a cushion between our backbones and allow for a space at each level so the nerves can exit the spinal column. When these discs get injured or wear out from bad posture, they begin to degenerate and cause pain. Bulging and herniations begin to form, pressing on the nerve roots. If the herniations occur at L4-L5, they can severely compromise the large sciatic nerve, causing muscle weakness, tingling, and severe pain. The most common invasive treatment for disc herniations is surgery. This costs quite a bit of money. Even with health insurance the patient is left with their own portion of the bill, in excess of $10,000-$15,000, and sometimes more. The recovery time and missed work can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months, not to mention the obvious severe risks associated with all surgery. But here’s the biggest problem… there is a high failure rate of back surgery. One medical study found that on average, 53% of L5-S1 back surgeries fail to produce relief of symptoms (International Orthop 1987.) Do You Have A Disc Problem? If you experience any of the following in your back or neck, chances are your pain is due to a disc bulge, herniation or degeneration: • A vice-like squeezing feeling in your back • Sitting causes back or leg pain • Stabbing pain at the belt line or in your neck • Can’t turn over in bed without hurting • Numbness in your toes or fingers • Fire down your legs • Searing pain radiates into your arm • Prickling in your leg or toes Finally, Some Good News…… If you’ve been suffering with back pain or arm/leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs. Until recently, the only advice for many of you suffering in pain was to try what you’ve been told: • Try exercising • Try physical therapy • Try pain medications • Try muscle relaxers • Try pain shots • Try dangerous back surgery • Just live with it If you’re like most, none of these have worked for you or you are afraid of what could happen if you do try some of these. Exercising makes you hurt more, pain medications and muscle relaxers cover up the problem and give you side effects. Pain shots can cause more pain, don’t work or don’t last very long or FIX the problem, back surgery didn’t work, or made you worse. Or maybe you were one of the lucky ones that back surgery actually helped, but now the problem is back with a vengeance. Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

into a Breakthrough Computerized Non-Surgical Treatment for back pain and sciatic or leg pain caused by a bulging, herniated or squashed disc or discs. It has helped hundreds of people who were suffering just like you. This new treatment machine we are calling “the squashed disc machine.” How “Good” Discs become “Bad” Discs Over time the discs in your back tend to get squashed or compressed, especially if you’ve played certain sports when younger or have a job that requires lots of sitting or standing in one place for long periods of time. Car accidents, lifting things, very physical jobs just to name a few. It’s kind of like a cookie with cream filling, and the cream filling will start to ooze out from between the sides of the cookie if pressure is applied on top of the cookie (like gravity on our spines). Eventually this happens to a lot of us. Statistics show over 80% of Americans will suffer with back pain some time in their life. Spinal decompression treatments are very gentle. In fact, every once in a while I even catch a patient sleeping during treatment! How Does This Machine Work? Haven’t you ever had the thought…”Gosh, if somebody could just pull me apart…I would feel a whole lot better.” Yeah, we know you have. And it kind of makes a bit of sense. Well someone else, actually a medical manufacturer, back pain specialists, neurosurgeons and engineers have come up with just that. A machine that gently pulls you apart, stretches the disc to a certain point that causes a drop in pressure inside the disc (like a little vacuum in the middle of the cream filling) causing the cream filling to suck back in! You’ll simply lie on your stomach or back, whichever is comfortable, and then a specialized belt is gently put around your waist. We’ll set the machine to focus on your problem area – then the advanced decompression computer system will do the rest. Most patients feel better with just a few treatments, and best of all there will be no dangerous drugs, no invasive procedures, and no painful exercises. Does Decompression really work? Absolutely! When you come in we will provide you with studies that show why decompression is a preferred method of treatment. But what provides the best “proof” on how well decompression works is what patients say about it: Just Listen to What Our Patients Had to Say: When I came in North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute I was suffering with Sciatic Pain that ran down my leg. Since starting the decompression therapy I have a lot less pain and my quality of life has improved. I can do more things and golf more. From my 1st visit I felt that I was very important and that my care was a top priority to the doctors and staff. I am very thankful for their care and dedication to my health.Much thanks to you & your staff, Bill Otott – Retired (Golfer) I originally started getting help at North Cobb Spine & Nerve for my Sciatica that ran down my left leg. One of my biggest concerns was not getting surgery. Now that I have gotten decompression therapy I have no more pain and my life feels normal again. My sciatic pain is gone. Everyone at the practice is so helpful and fantastic! I was amazed that I could get help without surgery. Thank you, Mike Morton- Sales Representative

Dr. Erin Arnold As you can see, spinal decompression has a high success rate with helping disc herniations, sciatica, and back pain. In just a matter of weeks you could be playing golf, enjoying your love life, or traveling again. The Single Most Important Solution To Your Sciatica and Back Pain It’s time for you to find out if spinal decompression will be your sciatic and back pain solution. For 15 days only, we’re running a very special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for spinal decompression. What Does This Offer Include? Everything we normally do in our new patient evaluation. Just call before Sept. 15th, and here’s what you’ll get… • An in-depth consultation about your health and wellbeing where the doctor will listen…really listen…to the details of your case. • A complete neuromuscular examination. • A full set of specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms. • A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • An extensive review of your MRI. • You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, like is has been for so many other patients. Until Sept. 15th, you can get everything listed here for $20. The normal price for this type of evaluation including x-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking us up on this offer. Here’s What To Do Now: Due to the expected demand for this treatment, we suggest calling our office at once at 678-574-5678.

CALL TODAY! 678-574-5678 North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 3451 Cobb Pkwy, Ste. 4 Acworth, GA 30101

Health & Wellness

Your Prostate Playbook Understanding Prostate Cancer

IN HOME TUTORING!

BY DR. SCOTT MILLER

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. For American men, prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer, behind only lung cancer, and affects one in seven men. Fortunately, new research and improved treatment plans are yielding better outcomes and enabling patients to continue enjoying active, productive lives. Know Your Risk No one knows exactly what causes prostate cancer, but research indicates several common factors that may increase a man’s risk of developing the disease:

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• Age. Odds of developing prostate cancer significantly increase if you are older than 50. • Family history. Having a father or brother with the disease more than doubles your risk. • Race. You’re more likely to develop cancer if you’re African-American.

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• Diet. A diet high in red meat and high-fat dairy may increase your risk. Start the discussion Early detection is key in successfully treating many cancers. Beginning at age 50, men at average risk for developing prostate cancer should begin to discuss screening with their doctor. Men at high risk for developing prostate cancer should begin discussing screening even sooner, around 45. Typical prostate screenings include a rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. If a suspicious lump or area is found during the rectal exam, or if a PSA test reveals higher-than–normal results, a biopsy of the prostate may be performed to confirm if cancer is present. Spot the Signs In its earliest stages, prostate cancer usually has no symptoms. Any symptoms that do appear should be reported to your doctor right away. Symptoms that may occur include: • Blood in urine or semen • Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, ribs or upper thighs

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• Trouble having or keeping an erection • Pain or burning during urination • Weakness or numbness in the legs continued on page 70 Dr. Scott D. Miller is medical director of the advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery program at Northside Hospital. Visit www.northside.com/ prostate to learn more acout prostate cancer and screening options.

email candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Health & Wellness

Fluoride Helps Prevent Tooth Decay BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

Last month’s article addressed the usefulness of fluoride in our drinking water, and the subject this month is exploring how fluoride works to protect our teeth against tooth decay. It is commonly believed that bacteria causes tooth decay, but it is mainly caused by acid. Billions of bacteria in the mouth produce acid, which destroys tooth enamel and causes decay, and damages the area where the gum attaches to the teeth and the bone that holds teeth in place. Tooth decay begins when the protective outer enamel deteriorates from acid. A sticky white film known as plaque comes from built-up bacteria in the mouth and on the teeth. Bacteria comprising plaque secrete acid when sugar from food or drink enters the mouth. Plaque can maintain contact between acid and the tooth surface for up to two hours before the acid is neutralized by saliva. While saliva acts as a buffer to safeguard the teeth from acid’s negative effects, it isn’t enough to stop tooth decay. If you do not brush your teeth twice a day, plaque can accumulate, causing greater damage. At the base of a tooth that has been diagnosed with early decay, there is often a soft white area that resembles wet bread. Such an area shows that calcium and phosphate minerals have been dissolved out of the enamel into the plaque, a process called “demineralization.” Once bacteria penetrate the outer enamel surface, decay can infect the soft center of the tooth. If left untreated, it will gradually destroy the tooth, causing

To prevent tooth decay, fluoride was used in purifying and processing United States’ drinking water in the 1940s and toothpaste in the 1970s.

pain and the formation of an abscess. To prevent tooth decay, fluoride was used in purifying and processing United States’ drinking water in the 1940s and toothpaste in the 1970s. After more than 70 years of using fluoride, the complex relationship between fluoride and tooth decay isn’t fully understood, but here are a few ways we know that fluoride inhibits tooth decay: Early ingestion of fluoride in children up to 7 years of age alters the structure of the enamel as it develops, increasing its resistance to acid demineralization and decay. While once considered crucial, this physiological process is now believed to be the least important mechanism. Fluoride remineralizes tooth enamel by helping reconstitute calcium and phosphate minerals into the enamel, increasing the tooth’s resistance to decay. The first two mechanisms by fluoride are reactive, affecting the tooth enamel. The third mechanism of fluoride is proactive and directly attacks plaque, bacteria and acid. This principle effect prevents tooth decay by reducing the ability of plaque to produce acid in the first place. Fluoride can reduce the depth of surface grooves on teeth during enamel formation. Shallower grooves do not allow bacteria to penetrate as deeply, thus reducing effects of decay.

Dr. Scott Harden, a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry, has served Woodstock for more than 21 years. 770-926-0000. www.FountainViewSmiles.com.

How Loud is Too Loud? BY JAN HENRIQUES AU. D.

According to the American Academy of Audiology, of the more than 36 million Americans with hearing loss, one in three developed the hearing loss as a result of noise exposure. Examples of damaging noise-producing items are guns, fireworks, car stereos at full volume, ambulances, jet airplanes, concerts, car racing, sporting events and MP3 players at full volume. Noise-induced hearing loss was documented as early as the 16th century when a French surgeon, Ambroise Paré, wrote about injuries sustained from firearms. It would take centuries for the importance of ear protection from noise to be understood, according to the December 2008 issue of the American Journal of Public Health. Audiology is a relatively young profession, born out of the need to help World War II veterans with hearing loss and tinnitus. Jet aircraft engines produced unprecedented levels and duration of noise exposures that no military person or civilian had 50

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

been exposed to before. It wasn’t until 1980 that all military branches adopted hearing conservation programs to protect and monitor hearing for military personnel. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates hearing protection when exposed to noise for a certain period of time, and requires testing to monitor hearing levels. This program is for the military and for industries where noise levels from equipment can be damaging. Here are some other examples of noise that can cause damage to the ears. It’s important to prevent the damage, which cannot be undone.

continued on page 70

Dr. Henriques, a board certified audiologist and lead provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock, has been practicing since 1985. www.YourHearingLink.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

School & Sports

First Day of School Stats: • 40,141 students enrolled • 44 schools and centers • 4,500 employees • 2,500 teachers • 369 buses in the fleet

Johnston Elementary Celebrates New Preschool Center Johnston Elementary School recently celebrated the opening of the Johnston Preschool Center on its campus. The center, one of three school district preschool centers, was relocated from Little River Elementary School to provide more room on that campus for its growing kindergarten through sixth grade population. The Johnston Preschool Center enrolls 143 students, a 22 percent increase in enrollment from last year.

Johnston Elementary Principal Amy Graham, right, and Assistant Principal Carolyn Daugherty greet Johnston Preschool Center students, from left, Christina Jordan, Lenore Wells, Cashius Bishop, Adam Bakraoui, Celestey Hizown and Dyren Tjin.

Swimming Her Way to Singapore

From left: Griffin Port, Davis Port, Dalton Huguley, Scott Cudabac, Jason Styron, Jeff Markley, Scott Richardson, Will Ku and Savannah Styron.

Donuts for Dads

Johnston Elementary School’s PTA Men at Work program recently hosted Donuts for Dads as a part of its program to encourage dads to participate in school activities. More than 400 dads and students participated in the event. “The kids absolutely loved having their fathers here,” Principal Amy Graham said, noting the event was so popular that from now on it will be split into two days.

Lauren Case, a senior at Woodstock High School and swimmer for the Chattahoochee Gold yearround club team, has qualified for the U.S. Junior World Championship Swim Team that will compete in Singapore. She will swim the 100-meter butterfly and 800-meter freestyle relay. Lauren qualified as one of the two fastest 18 and younger swimmers in her events at the recent 2015 Speedo U.S. Junior National Championships in San Antonio, which qualified her to compete in the Junior World Championships. Earlier this year, she and fellow Chattahoochee Gold swimmer, Alarii Levreault-Lopez, competed in the Irish Open Swimming Lauren Case. Championships in Dublin, Ireland.

School District Welcomes New Teachers with Camp Cherokee Newly hired teachers were welcomed into the Cherokee County School District with an invitation to attend Camp Cherokee 2015. The optional two-day training experience is designed to offer immediate support and information to first-year teachers starting their career in Cherokee County. Of the 111 eligible, new teachers, 106 participated in the program, which was held this summer at Teasley Middle School. Thirty sessions were offered on topics including: technology training, Special Education program information, TKES (Teacher Keys Effectiveness System) Evaluations, Georgia Standards of Excellence, classroom accountability and mentor teacher support. More than 100 new teachers attended the Camp Cherokee 2015 professional development program. 52

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

JROTC Program Excels at The Citadel Nineteen cadets from Sequoyah High School Air Force Junior ROTC attended training at The Citadel in Charleston this summer. The week-long program was attended by 300 JROTC cadets from across the country and is the largest AFJROTC Cadet Leadership Course in the United States. The course challenges cadets both physically and mentally in order to prepare them for the rigors of leadership when they return to their respective units. Students participated in obstacle courses, rappelling and orienteering training and were evaluated and scored daily in areas such as physical fitness, uniform and room inspections, academics, drill, orienteering, marksmanship and various sports competitions. Cadets who accumulated enough points graduated from the course and could potentially become leaders in their respective units. All of Sequoyah High School’s cadets earned this distinction and the associated Leadership School Ribbon. Recognition awarded to Sequoyah High School cadets include: • Outstanding Basic Cadet for Bravo Squadron: Andy Whittle • John Armstrong Fleet Foot Award (physical assessment fastest female runner): Celeste Thunderrock • Outstanding Cadet Ribbon (top cadet in flight): Dariela Vasquez and Andy Whittle • Leadership School Ribbon (With Silver Star; Top 10 percent performer overall): Dariela Vasquez and Andy Whittle • Excellence in Competitive Sports: Jack Harden and Sumner Rownd • Academic Ribbon: Luiz Santos and Andy Whittle • Outstanding Flight Ribbon: Abigail Ford and Emma Keller. • Superior Performance Ribbon (excellence in leading drill): Luiz Santos, Dariela Vazquez and Jonathan Wooldridge • Leadership School Ribbon with Bronze Star, Leadership and CoAll of Sequoyah High School’s cadets who attended the program curricular Ribbons (leader/cadre participant): Madison Dietz and earned the Leadership School Ribbon. Grayson Hooper • Health and Wellness Ribbon (physical training excellence): Devin Brown, Madison Dietz, Rebecca Filler, Abigail Ford, Daniel Goss, Jack Harden, Grayson Hooper, James Rider, Celeste Thunderrock, Dariela Vazquez, Andy Whittle and Jonathan Wooldridge

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

School & Sports

Acts of Kindness Kick Off School Year Many students at Cherokee Charter Academy spent their summer participating in good deeds. The initiative, known as #GLOWKID (Generously Leading Others With Kind Interactions Daily), encouraged students in kindergarten through 8th grade to exhibit acts of kindness − big and small − which included: • Raising money for charitable organizations such as: UNICEF • Helping feed hungry families in Cherokee County • Collecting shoes for Soles4Souls • Donating hair to Wigs for Kids • Helping fill hundreds of backpacks for Cherokee County students in need • Sending birthday money Fourth-grader, Anna Gregg with some to Nepal earthquake of the shoes collected for Sole4Souls. victims Now that students are back at school, they plan to continue the #GLOWKID program throughout the year.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

New Club Welcomes River Ridge Freshmen Incoming freshmen were welcomed in a new way this school year at River Ridge High School. Seniors Ally Robbins and Alex Hartwig, and juniors Jordan Mason and Justin Mason, organized a new club, the Big/Little Club, to match upperclassmen as a “big brother” or “big sister” to an incoming freshman. The club will meet at planned social and community service events throughout the school year to engage students and help them get involved. Counselor Jeff Bennett, the club’s staff sponsor, said the first event was a success; about 120 students attended. Students enjoyed pizza and games, worked on a community service project and got to know each other. The new students had time to ask upperclassmen questions about high school in a fun and comfortable Students run a wheelbarrow relay during the new Big/ environment. Little Club’s first event.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Cherokee Photography Club

Congratulations to all the participants in the July competition “Reflections.”

If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

Monochromatic:

1st Peter Kilpo “Glass Tower Reflecting”

3rd Jim Kirk “Apalachicola Ready”

2nd Eillene Kirk “En garde!”

HM Karen Beedle “Brick House”

Digital Projection:

1st Kerry Penn “Reflection of a Lily” 2nd Eillene Kirk “Storm Tossed” 56

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

3rd Mark Mozley “Fall Storm Over Mt. Moran “

HM Martin Longstaff “Reflection on a Peat Bog”

HM Allen Quandee “Early Morning Reflections”

Color Prints:

1st David Ferguson “Flower Pot at the ABG”

2nd Peter Kilpo “On the Mooring”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@ comcast.net. 3rd Becky Sapp “Jedediah Smith”

HM Rick Sapp “Egret Mirror Check” AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Faith

Gifts from Nature BY REV. ANN GARVIN

I love to watch the sun rise, to see the new day dawning. Several years ago I experienced a special sunrise, although it was not exactly what I had hoped for or expected. I love to see the dark turn to light with the various colors of pink, purple, blue and yellow appearing. This special day I was in the mountains and was looking forward to the beauty of the sunrise with all the glorious colors displayed. But God had a very different gift for me that morning. As things changed from dark to light, I realized that the entire sky was covered with a huge cloud. The mountains were encased in a gray haze so I could barely make out their outlines. At first, I was disappointed because I knew I would miss the brilliance of the sunrise that I so love. However, I knew I was in God’s presence so I sat in silence praying for Him to speak to my heart. When I opened my eyes, I began to see a different kind of beauty. I noticed that although the gray cloud was not going anywhere there was still evidence that the sun was rising. The sun was still there even though it was covered by the gray cloud. Every so often, I saw rays of white light escaping from the edge of the cloud. Then, there would be small breaks in the cloud where I could actually see a hint of the pink tint I love. As I continued to watch, I realized that God was demonstrating, in nature, the story of my life—the story of our lives.

In this journey called life, we have all kinds of experiences. We start out walking in darkness, not always seeing clearly what is before our eyes. As we come to know Jesus, the “son” rises, and we begin our walk with our Lord. We start to see clearly His hand at work in our lives. Everything is beautiful and exciting. And there are those times when the gray clouds come. Sometimes they are short lived and the wind seems to push them on. Other times they are like the gray cloud that was before me. They are overwhelming and seem to overshadow everything. These clouds may come in the form of some tragic and traumatic events, or they may come as an unsettled, restless feeling, or as doubts, fears or a gnawing sense of unworthiness that steals our joy. Regardless of the form, things happen and we temporarily lose our focus. Like when I first arrived, I focused on the gray cloud and what I was missing—the beautiful colors of the sunrise. As I refocused on God with my prayer, His Spirit continued on page 70

After working in the counseling field for more than 25 years, Ann felt God’s call into pastoral ministry and currently serves as pastor of Woodstock United Methodist Church. Her email address is ann.garvin@ngumc.net.

Faith Notes Churches on the Move

A series of moves is happening in Woodstock, with congregations expanding and worshipping in large spaces. Here’s a roundup: • Faith Community Church will meet at Woodstock Elementary on 230 Rope Mill Road while building a new church in the area. www.faithcommunitychurch.org. • Momentum Church has moved to 659 Arnold Mill Road, a facility it purchased from Faith Community Church. www.momentumchurch.tv. • The Dwelling has moved to the space previously occupied by Momentum, at 110 Londonderry Court. www.dwellingplacemovement.org. • St. Michael the Archangel Church construction is complete on the new sanctuary, a dedication Mass was celebrated with Archbishop Wilton Gregory on Aug. 29. www.saintmichaelcc.org.

Confirmation Plans Underway

Hillside United Methodist Church is inviting sixth and seventh graders to join the 2015-16 confirmation class. An open house is planned for 9:30 a.m. Sept. 6 in room 2009. Classes begin Sept. 13. Contact Chris Mixer at 770-9244777. www.hillsideumc.org. 58

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Fall AWANA Programs Resume

Awana Clubs offer Scripture-based programs and games that promote Bible literacy and help kids develop lifelong faith. Many area churches provide AWANA programs for school-age children and younger throughout the school year. Check with the churches listed for dates, times and age requirements. For more info visit awana.org. Allen Temple Church 232 Arnold Mill Road Woodstock, 30188 770- 926-6348

Hopewell Baptist Church 78 Ridge Road Canton, 30114 770- 345-5723

First Baptist Church Canton 1 Mission Point Canton, 30114 770- 479-5538

New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Road Woodstock, 30189 770- 926-8448

First Baptist Church Woodstock 11905 Highway 92 Woodstock, 30188 770- 926-4428

Sunnyside Church of God 2510 E. Cherokee Drive Woodstock, 30188 770- 593-1018

A Realistic Message for Our Children BY BONNIE CLARK

Dear Kids,

As we start another school year full of hope and promise, I just want to let you in on something. And I know this is weird coming from your mother, but I’m here to tell you that you cannot be anything you want to be. As it turns out, there are lots of things you probably won’t be any good at. And that’s a good thing. It is true that life is about discovering what you were meant for…about hearing your whisper; but discovering who you really are is mostly a process of elimination by discovering who you are not. The good news is, you have a gift; the bad news is, you’re going to have to cross some things off your list to find it. Becoming who you are meant to be is a process. It used to discourage me that I was not good at math, organization, administration, fashion, decorating…the list is much longer. It seemed that the list of what-I wanted-to-be-when-I-grew-up kept getting smaller. Over time, however, I realized that God has been showing me who I really am, by showing me who I am not. I trust that He is refining me. Along the way He has revealed to me my gifts, and when I focus my efforts there, I am happy. In Romans, the Bible says, “Be honest in your evaluation of yourself.” Exactly. Don’t waste your time doing things you’re not good at - cross them off the list and move on. Seriously. And don’t feel bad about it. I’m not saying to avoid learning or challenging yourself, but don’t beat

yourself up if you aren’t good at something; because you ARE good at something. You just have to discover what that something is that God put in your heart: the real you. Gifts are who you are. Gifts come naturally. Talents are great, but gifts are what you need to do: given by God for you to give away to the world. Learn to operate within your gifts and you will be fulfilled. And you can let the list of “things I’m not good at” get longer and smile and think, “I’m doing it. I’m discovering who I am meant to be.” That takes bravery and honesty. You cannot be anything you want to be, and you shouldn’t. Because you are a very unique piece of God’s great puzzle and finding where you fit is heaven on earth. Keep trying. Keep crossing things off. Keep in step with the Spirit, and He will lead you to what you were meant for. When the Bible says He will give you the desires of your heart, that does not mean he will give you what you want, but He will place the things to want in your heart. So babies, you cannot be anything you want to be, but you can be your you-iest YOU, and that is all you should be. Love Always, Mom

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” - E.E. Cummings Bonnie Clark lives in Canton with her husband Keenan, owner of Clark Salon and Spa, and their three children. She enjoys writing, weightlifting and attending Watermarke Church.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Reference

WOODSTOCK AREA HOMES SOLD IN JULY List Price 492,058 489,900 460,000 429,900 425,000 425,000 409,900 394,900 375,000 350,000 335,000 334,900 324,900 323,500 305,940 300,000 299,900 294,000 287,000 284,900 283,400 279,800 276,400 274,900 264,900 259,900 245,000 245,000 243,900 240,000 239,900 239,000 234,900 225,000 219,000 219,000 215,900 215,000 215,000 210,000 209,000 207,000 205,000 204,800 200,000 198,000

Address 531 Audubon CIR 3010 Bradshaw Club DR 105 Masters CIR 4031 Hickory Fairway DR 605 Creekbank CT 811 Clubhouse PTE 125 Glenmill WAY 125 Fairway Overlook 407 Ridgeview CT 2080 Woodside Park DR 1018 BRADSHAW ESTATES DR 403 FARM BROOK CV 1723 Grand Oaks DR 205 Glenhaven WAY 210 Little River WAY 919 Bendleton DR 162 Susobell PL 1022 Bradshaw Estates DR 125 Copper Ridge DR 216 Revillion WAY 227 Revillion WAY 149 Highlands DR 165 Stone Manor CT 600 Brookside PASS 131 Highlands DR 2223 E Cherokee DR 413 Waverly PL 206 Haleys CT 156 Churchcliff DR 109 Thornwood DR 117 Towey TRL 504 Springwater CV 134 Springwater TRCE 336 Melrose CIR 1305 Willow Tree DR 330 Justin DR 215 Weatherstone Pointe DR 203 Weatherstone Pointe DR 254 Weatherstone Pointe DR 107 WESTRIDGE CT 204 Oak CT 411 Parkstone DR 409 Parkstone DR 125 Aucilla LN 623 Dahoma TRL 801 Cataya CV

Subdivision BedsBaths Yr Built Sales Price Heron Pond 3 2 2015 492,748 Bradshaw Farms 5 4 1996 475,000 Bradshaw Farms 4 4 2000 450,000 Bradshaw Farm 5 4 1999 425,000 Bradshaw Farm 5 4 1998 418,000 Bradshaw Farms 6 4 1995 424,000 Bradshaw Glen 5 3 2015 398,000 Bradshaw Farm 5 4 1998 385,000 Arborview 5 4 1999 345,000 Bradshaw Farm 5 3 1999 341,000 BRADSHAW ESTATES 5 4 2000 330,000 BRADSHAW FARM 4 3 1997 330,150 Oakhurst 4 3 2013 324,900 Arbor View 5 3 1999 310,000 Woodview Court 3 2 2015 342,140 Woodlands Glen 4 2 2003 300,000 Woodlands Enclave 4 2 2004 289,900 Bradshaw Estates 4 3 2000 288,500 Copper Ridge 6 3 1996 287,000 WOODLANDS 4 2 2004 284,900 WOODLANDS 4 2 2005 280,000 Arbor View 5 3 2003 280,000 Cornerstone Manor 4 2 2015 270,583 Arbor View 5 2 2000 274,900 Arbor View 5 3 2002 260,000 Horse farm on 2.7 acres 3 2 1978 255,000 Wynchase 3 2 2008 226,250 Hayleys Mill 4 2 2009 235,000 Woodlands Court 3 3 2004 241,500 Briarwood 4 2 1995 232,000 Woodlands 4 2 2003 239,000 Springfield Place 5 3 1996 231,220 Springfield Place 4 3 1988 235,000 Wynchase 3 2 2008 220,000 Willow Tree 3 2 1988 219,000 Ansley Forest 5 3 1989 209,000 Village At Weatherstone 4 2 2001 212,500 Village at Weatherstone 4 3 2002 207,500 Village at Weatherstone 4 2 2002 210,000 Westridge 3 2 1995 210,000 Bramble Oak 4 3 1978 211,000 Cornerstone Estates 3 2 2011 195,000 Cornerstone Estates 3 2 2011 205,000 Kingsgate At The Park 3 2 1999 197,000 Kingsgate 3 2 2001 192,625 The Park at Kingsgate 3 2 2001 198,000

A partial list of FMLS SF Detached residences data provided by The Premier Group, Keller Williams Realty Partners, Woodstock, GA Data believed to be accurate, but not warranted. 60

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

W OO DSTO CK CITY GOV E RNMEN T Mayor and Council Members Mayor Donnie Henriques dhenriques@woodstockga.gov Ward 1 - Warren Johnson wjohnson@woodstockga.gov Ward 2 - Chris Casdia ccasdia@woodstockga.gov Ward 3 - Bob Mueller bmueller@woodstockga.gov Ward 4 - Liz Baxter lbaxter@woodstockga.gov Ward 5 - Bud Leonard bleonard@woodstockga.gov Ward 6 - Rob Usher rusher@woodstockga.gov

Rid ge wa lk Pk wy .

575 Tow ne Lak eP kwy .

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Hwy. 92

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Reference

WOODSTOCK CITY GUIDE Stay Connected on Facebook

City of Woodstock: www.facebook.com/WOODSTOCKGAGOVT Woodstock Fire: www.facebook.com/woodstockfireandrescue Woodstock Main Street: www.facebook.com/MainStreetWoodstock Woodstock Parks and Recreation: www.facebook.com/woodstockparks Woodstock Police: www.facebook.com/woodstockpolicegeorgia Woofstock Dog Park: www.facebook.com/woofstockpark

On Twitter

www.twitter.com/woodstockpd www.twitter.com/woodstockfd www.twitter.com/woodstockparks www.nixle.com Sends alerts, advisories and community notifications from the city of Woodstock and Cherokee County Sheriff Department. www.cherokeega-sheriff.org A resource to check for registered sex offenders in your neighborhood. Click on Georgia Sexual Offender Registry then click on Register for Email Alerts for updates.

City Manager Jeffrey S. Moon, 770-592-6001, jmoon@woodstockga.gov Rhonda Smith, exec. assistant, 770-592-6001, rsmith@woodstockga.gov

City Council Representatives

For minutes and agendas of meetings, visit www.woodstockga.iqm2.com. Ward 1: Warren Johnson Ward 2: Chris Casdia Ward 3: Bob Mueller Ward 4: Liz Baxter Ward 5: Bud Leonard Ward 6: Rob Usher Council appointed committees: Downtown Development Authority and Convention & Visitors Bureau; Ethics Board; Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

Economic Development

Downtown Development Authority Convention & Visitors Bureau Brian Stockton, Director, 770-592-6056, bstockton@woodstockga.gov

City Officials

Woodstock Visitors Center/Dean’s Store Kyle Bennett, Tourism Manager, 770-924-0406, kbennett@woodstockga.gov Mitzi Saxon, Administrative Coordinator, 770-592-6056, or ext.-2250 msaxon@woodstockga.gov

Mayor Donnie Henriques, 770-592-6001, dhenriques@woodstockga.gov

Public Safety

City of Woodstock government 770-592-6000

Finance Robert Porche, CFO 770-592-6003, rporche@woodstockga.gov Parks and Recreation Preston Pooser, 770-517-6788, ppooser@woodstockga.gov

Trolley Routes outlined in red

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

George Williams, community outreach, Fire Marshal’s office 770-592-6000 ext. 1845, gwilliams@woodstockga.gov Woodstock Police Department 770-592-6030 Woodstock Post Office 770-591-0364

ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS United States Government President Barack Obama (D)

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 www.whitehouse.gov

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

202-456-1414 fax: 202-456-2461

Sen. David Perdue (R)

202-224-3521 B40D Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 GA: 678-248-6444 perdue.senate.gov

1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton, GA 30114

Commissioners

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

131 Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington DC 20510 202-224-3643 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339 GA: 770-661-0999 isakson.senate.gov Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R) District 11 238 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington DC 20515 202-225-2944 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 GA: 770-429-1776 loudermilk.house.gov

State Government

Steve West (R) District 1 Ray Gunnin (R) District 2 rgunnin@cherokeega.com

Brian Poole (R) District 3 bpoole@cherokeega.com

Scott Gordon (R) District 4 sgordon@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Coroner

Governor Nathan Deal (R)

404-652-7003 203 State Capitol, 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.georgia.gov

Earl W. Darby

770-735-8055

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R)

Sen. Brandon Beach (R) District 21 brandon.beach@senate.ga.gov

404-463-1378

498 Chattin Drive Canton, GA 30115 rdgarrison@cherokeega.com

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 slittle@cherokeega.com

Rep. Wes Cantrell (R) District 22 wes@cantrellforhouse.com

770-722-7526

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

Cherokee County School Board Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo

404-656-0254

Rep. John Carson (R) District 46

404-656-0287

scot@turnerforhouse.com

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov john.carson@house.ga.gov

Sonya Little

Superior Court 678-493-6270 678-493-6260 678-493-6240

State Court Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

678-493-6490 678-493-6480

678-493-6431 678-493-6431

Probate Court Judge Keith Wood (R)

Kyla Cromer (R) (Chair)

678-493-4100 fax: 678-493-4228

678-493-6400 fax: 678-493-6420 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us 770-479-1871 fax: 770-479-1236 678-493-8088

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Patsy Jordan (R) District 2

770-893-2970

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

patsy.jordan@cherokee.k12.ga.us john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rick Steiner (R) District 4 rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-721-4398, x4370

Clark Menard (R) District 5

770-928-0341

Mike Chapman (R) District 6 mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-345-6256

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Magistrate Court Chief Judge James E. Drane III (R) Judge Gregory Douds

221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

District 1 TBD

Cherokee County Courts Chief Judge David Cannon Jr. Judge Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea

lbahrens@cherokeega.com swest@cherokeega.com

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

City Government 678-493-6160

Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Juvenile Court

www.canton-georgia.gov

Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

District Attorney Shannon Wallace

678-493-6250 678-493-6280 770-479-1488

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

678-493-6511

www.hollyspringsga.us.

www.woodstockga.gov

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Reference

WOODSTOCK AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. every Wednesday at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock Contact: Marci Zied 770-345-8687 Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock www.cherokeetoastmasters.com Empowered Women Through Synergy Meets: 8:30 a.m. third Thursday at J Christopher’s, 315 Chambers St., Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900 The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/woodstock/ Main Street Woodstock Meets: 8 a.m. last Friday of every month at 8534 Main St. at City Center www.mainstreetwoodstock.org Southeast Cherokee Business Networking Meets: 8:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Frosty Frog Creamery, 6205 Hickory Flat Hwy., #112, Canton www.secbn.com Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-615-3350 www.tlba.org Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7:15-8:45 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Marc Replogle 770-952-5000, ext. 20 or 404-816-3377 www.powercore.net Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Ahimsa House Helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org Angel House Girls Home A residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center Dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. Contact: 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Bethany Place A transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. Contact: 770-479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org CASA for Children Promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. Contact: 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org CCHS Thrift Store Accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Contact: 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center Offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800334-2836 option 2 www.cfvc.org Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes Challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: 770-928-5115 or admin@cchumanesociety.org www.cchumanesociety.org Cherokee FOCUS Works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org Cherokee County Senior Services Offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services Community Veterinary Care Provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. Contact: 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com Companion Animal Connection Contact: 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com Everyday Angels Offers financial assistance for local families in need. Contact: aaeverydayangels@gmail.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. Provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. Contact: 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net Forever Fed A mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org Funds 4 Furry Friends Helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter 770-842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com Georgia Animal Project, Offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Based in Ball Ground Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee Sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch Offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America Animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries Gives surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney failure. Contact: dawn@harvestinghopeministries.org www.harvestinghopeministries.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch Offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org

Contact: 770-924-0864 or info@TheHopeCtr.com www.hopectr.com HOPE Center — Baby & More Thrift Store Offers adult and children’s clothing. Contact: 770-517-4450 www.babyandmorethriftstore.com MUST Ministries Offers groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Parkway www.mustministries.org National Alliance for Mental Illness The nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org Never Alone Outreach Provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org Next Step Ministries Offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net North Georgia Pregnancy Center Offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. Contact: 706-253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org Papa’s Pantry A year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Contact: Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Pet Buddies Food Pantry Helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. Contact: 678-310-9858 www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County Provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.safekidscherokeecounty.org SERV International Operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. Contact: 770-516-1108 www.servone.org Volunteer Aging Council A nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. Contact: 770-310-3474 www.vac-cherokeega.org

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road Contact: Irma Martin 678-662-2366

Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road Contact: Andrew Yrabedra 404-663-4663

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter For anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Rich 770-926-1944

HopeQuest Ministry Group Helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org

Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room) www.saltcherokee.com

HOPE Center Offers support for unplanned pregnancy.

Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org

Citizen Oversight and Education Contact: 678-520-2236, citizenoversighteducation@ yahoo.com Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. Contact: Marcie Zied 770-345-8687 Junior Service League of Woodstock Contact: 770-592-3535 http://jslwoodstock.org/ Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 Contact: Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com www.pilotinternational.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 770-480-4179 Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 678-428-6514 Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Featherstone’s Grille at 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock www.townelakerotary.com Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-926-3522 Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Eagle Watch Golf Club Contact: 404-557-2218 www.townelakeoptimists.com Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road Contact: 770-926-8336 Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Contact: 770-906-2958

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs Contact: 770-345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock http://cherokeelp.org Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. second Saturday at Winchester Woodfire Grill, 110 Mountain Vista Blvd., Canton Contact: 678-809-1411 http://cherokeecountygop.com/ Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli 770-378-8232, conradquag@gmail.com www.teapartypatriots.org/groups/cherokee-tea-partypatriots/ Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton Contact: 770-592-7811 or jkconkey@gmail.com Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Wendy’s in Holly Springs, 5343 Old Highway 5, Woodstock Contact: Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922 Republican Women of Cherokee County Contact: 678-520-2236 www.rwccga.com

RECREATION & HOBBIES Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the Lake. Contact: Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road www.cherokeehams.com Cherokee Community Chorale A community of singers from all walks of life including housewives, teachers, retired professionals, office managers and professional musicians who love the art of choral singing. Contact: 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton Contact: 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners Contact: 770-721-7803 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/mastergardeners Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee County Saddle Club Hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) Roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association Contact: 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock www.christianauthorsguild.org Kingdom Riders A forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons For men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org Wildlife Action, Inc. A conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Contact: 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Highway, Canton www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center Offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. http://www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html

Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8 pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Reba. 770-516-3502 www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.php?district=17 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013

American Red Cross Metro Chapter Contact: 770-428-2695 Breast Cancer Support Group Meets: 10 a.m. - noon first Thursday of each month at Northside Hospital—Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: 404-843-1880 Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. Contact: 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist Contact: 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House Contact: 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group Provides support for people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, etc. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs Contacts: Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@ comcast.net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association For pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock www.cherokeeministers.org Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock Contact: Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence Contact: 404-824-4637, gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org Grace Valley Ministries Connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter Support and resources offered at free and quarterly meetings in the Woodstock area. Contact: nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church Contact: Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770-517-0191 MOMS Club of Woodstock - Towne Lake Contact: momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: 770-924-4777 Unlimited Possibilities Support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589 AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org

AME

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com

Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com

Faith Community Woodstock Elementary, 230 Rope Mill Road 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448 www.newvicbaptist.org

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.com Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.annunciationepiscopal.org Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

JEWISH

Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Road NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702 www.jewishwoodstock.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564 www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869 www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-3558 www.heritagepres.com Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074 www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

UNITED METHODIST

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombchurch.org Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.ngumc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com

BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-733-2585 www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 415 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org

www.newcovenantcanton.org North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Soul Medicine 3725 Sixes Road Canton Soulmedicinesunday.org Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org The Dwelling Place 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org

Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com

Thrive Chapel 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com

Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info

Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com

Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org

Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com

His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Mem. Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412

Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Reference

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, ÂŠ OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 68

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

CHEROKEE COUNTY CONTACTS Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

770-345-0400

Cherokee County Government

Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768 (Includes Aquatic Center, Barnett Park, Blankets Creek, Cherokee

www.cherokeega.com Building Permits, Business Licenses 770-721-7810 Commissioners 678-493-6001 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) 678-493-6077 Environmental Health 770-479-0444 Extension Office 770-479-0418 Jury Phone 770-479-9011 Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) 770-479-1953 Planning & Land Use 678-493-6101 Senior Services 770-345-2675 Sheriff’s Office www.cherokeega-sheriff.org 678-493-4100 Voter Registration 770-479-0407

Mills, Field’s Landing Park, Kenny Askew Park)

Taxes

Animal Control

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax – Canton office Woodstock office Renewals online https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/ Tax Assessors/Evaluation

678-493-6400 770-924-4099 678-493-6120

Children and Family

Anna Crawford Children’s Center 770-345-8100 Bethesda Community Clinic 678-880-9654 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club 770-720-7712 Cherokee County Foster & Adoptive Parents Assoc. www.ccfapa.com 770-560-2624 Cherokee Family Violence Center 770-479-1804 Cherokee FOCUS 770-345-5483 Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) www.casacherokee.org 770-345-3274 Division of Family & Children Services 770-720-3610 Goshen Valley Boys Ranch www.goshenvalley.org 770-796-4618 Hope Center www.hopectr.com 770-924-0864 MUST Ministries - Cherokee www.mustministries.org 770-479-5397 Never Alone www.neveralone.org 770-363-5272 Next Step Ministries www.nextstepministries.net 770-592-1227 North Georgia Angel House www.angelhousega.com 770-479-9555 North Georgia Pregnancy Center www.ngapregnancy.org 706-253-6303 Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org 770-591-4730

Hospitals

Kennestone North Fulton Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24-hour help lines

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center Poison Control Center (outside metro Atlanta) Probate Court Information Line Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

Parks and Recreation

770-793-5000 770-751-2500 770-720-5100 770-479-1703 770-345-7920 404-616-9000 800-222-1222 770-704-2610 770-427-3390

Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Outdoor YMCA, 201 E Bells Ferry Road www.ymca.net Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.cssasoftball.com Cherokee County Soccer Assoc. www.csaimpact.com 770-704-0187

Cherokee Tennis Association, www.cherokeetennis.org 678-909-0252 Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Assoc., http://cherokeelacrosse.uslaxteams.com South Cherokee Recreation Association (SCRA)

770-928-5917

Cherokee Youth Football Association, www.cyfa.org

770-710-2835

North Atlanta Soccer Association: www.nasa-ga.org

770-926-4175

SCRA Baseball www.scrabaseball.com Wildlife Action, Inc. www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com

770-924-7464

Pets 678-493-6200

Cherokee County Animal Shelter & Pet Adoptions www.cherokeega-animals.org

770-345-7270

Cherokee County Humane Society www.cchumanesociety.org

770-928-5115

Emergency Veterinary Clinic

770-924-3720

Funds 4Furry Friends

770-842-8893

Lost Pets:

www.townelaker.com.

(click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet) Pet Buddies Food Pantry

www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org

Community Veterinary Care www.communityveterinarycare.com

678-640-3512

Utilities Atlanta Gas Light Co. Canton Water

www.aglc.com

770-907-4231

www.canton-georgia.com

770-704-1500

Cherokee Water & Sewerage Auth. www.ccwsa.com

770-479-1813

Cobb EMC

770-429-2100

www.cobbemc.com

Georgia Power

www.georgiapower.com

Woodstock Water

www.woodstockga.gov

Recycling Center

888-660-5890 770-926-8852 770-516-4195

Free, Reduced-Price Health Care Bethesda Community Clinic www.bethesdacommunityclinic.org

678-880-9654

Cherokee County Health Department www.nghd.org/CherokeeHealth

770-345-7371

Urgent Care Facilities American Family Care, 6440 Bells Ferry Rd. Woodstock, 770-200-1220 Northside Cherokee Urgent Care, off exit 11 at I-575

678-426-5450

Physician’s Express Care at Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy. #104 Woodstock

770-693-5880

SHEFA Urgent Care 2000 Village Professional Dr. #110, Canton

678-661-3166

Wellstar Urgent Care 120 Stonebridge Pkwy. Woodstock (off exit 8)

678-494-2500

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Gifts from Nature

Practical Jokes on Neighbors

moved in my heart and opened my eyes to the gift before me. I was able to see a different kind of beauty. This was a beauty that existed even though there was a gray cloud—a gift that reminded me of God’s presence in all circumstances. No matter where you are or what is going on around you, God wants us, you and me, to know that He is there. Jeremiah 29:13 reminds us: “When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart.” Seek Him!

A few weeks ago, my son Joseph began cleaning his room after years of neglect. As he was excavating the layers of junk, he uncovered a three-foot-long, realistic-looking rubber rattlesnake. In an effort undoubtedly directed at his mother, he hid the snake under a blanket in our living room. Ann is an old hand at immature Litrel practical jokes. When she unsuspectingly picked up the blanket, the sudden appearance of the snake underneath barely caused her to raise an eyebrow. Disheartened, Joseph carried his snake outside. I spotted the rubber snake the other day when I was washing my car. It lay coiled under the hose reel, camouflaged by leaves. I didn’t think too much about it, mentally categorizing it with the flower pots and yard ornaments Ann uses for decoration. Yasmin came over to say hello. As we were chatting across the car, she suddenly let out a terrified scream. Yasmin held her chest with the same wide-eyed fright her mother had shown. “WHY would you put a fake snake outside your house?!!!” she demanded angrily. But I couldn’t answer. I was laughing too hard. Besides, I think the question kind of answers itself.

continued from page 58

Step Two to Becoming an Actor continued from page 25

those shows and movies as actual work their actors have done. You can be an extra on your own, without an agent. Instead, look at their gallery of actors. Do those headshots look professional? Do they have résumés and maybe even demo reels attached? When you compare the résumé with the IMDb.com page, does it match up? Now that you have researched agencies and decided with whom you would like to sign, submit. To do that, read their website for instructions. Then, follow their instructions 100 percent. If you follow their submission instructions explicitly, you will stand out in a good way.

Workers’ Compensation Claims continued from page 40

were denied benefits altogether. The employer or insurer may appeal if they think you weren’t entitled to benefits or were paid too much. Claims for workers’ compensation benefits are complicated. There are numerous state forms to file for each issue. Employers and insurers often fight against having to pay benefits. Employees usually need expert opinions from doctors and others to prove the extent of their injuries and how much they should be paid and for how long. Make sure you get all the benefits you’re entitled to by understanding how the process works and contacting a workers’ compensation attorney.

How Loud is Too Loud? continued from page 50

When is noise dangerous? • When you have to shout over background noise to be heard when at an arm’s length away. • When the noise is painful to your ears. • If the noise makes your ears ring. • If your hearing is muffled after you have left the noise. What can be done to protect your hearing? • Wear hearing protection. There are many types, but they work only if you use them consistently and correctly. • Turn down the volume. • Walk away from the noise. 70

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

continued from page 38

Your Prostate Playbook continued from page 49

Explore your Options Every case of prostate cancer is different and treatment options can vary. Several factors play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment—age and health, stage of the disease, and benefits and side effects of each treatment. In most cases prostate cancer grows slowly, so men diagnosed with the disease usually have time to consider all available treatment options, gather additional opinions and, with the help of their doctor, decide on which option is best for them.

TGIF: The Sounds of Family Night continued from page 34

TGIF programming to anyone and you’re sure to evoke a fond “Aw, I remember that!” It was upon just such a discussion that my husband and I realized that we both had the same tradition growing up: Friday nights were family night and they often involved both pizza and TGIF. Since we’re both sentimental people, finding out we shared this tradition made it easy to incorporate it into our family’s life. TGIF may no longer be on the air, but we continue the pizza tradition in our own way. Rather than order in, we cook our own. (Try one of our recipes, using your family’s favorite toppings.) After the pies are cooked, we sit down on the couch with our respective slices, toss the dogs a slice of pepperoni or two, and pick something to watch. It’s never “my” show or “his” show, but a mutual choice. I imagine this decision will get harder as the years go by and our kids play couch commando with the remote control. When those little disagreements break out, I’ll still be thankful to have a house that is filled with the sounds of family night.

photo by J King Images

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.

At AroundAbout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home.

From left Michelle McCulloch, Patty Ponder, Jon and Karen Flaig, Candi Hannigan, Denise Griffin, Laura Latchford, Jackie Loudin and Christie Deese.

We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page six for our contact information

Around Woodstock Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES Open Mortgage 404-992-7798 understandingreverse.com

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 678-445-7423 www.hartman-imbriale.com

Limbocker Law Firm 678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA Bambu Salon and Spa 770-345-0027 www.BambuSalonAveda.com

Elegant Nails 678-401-4734

Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662

Salon Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com

Salon TLC 770-516-4858 www.SalonTLC.com

BUSINESS Downtown Buzz 31 770-592-6056 www.downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz CLEANING SERVICES Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

CHIROPRACTIC North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute (678) 574-5678

Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychrio.com

DENTAL

Fountain View Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.FountainViewSmiles.com

Hickory Flat Dental 770-479-8654

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

Spillane Orthodontics 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2015

Williams Orthodontics Woodstock: 770-592-5554 Canton: 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Goddard School, The 770-516-0880 www.GoddardSchool.com

Grant Academy, The 770-926-7827 www.thegrantacademy.net

Kennesaw State University 470-578-6765 cccpe.kennesaw.edu/healthcare

Piano Instructor-Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com

Tutor Doctor 770-308-6300 www.InHomeTutorNorthAtlanta.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Blue Horizon Air Cond. & Heating 678-279-2244 BHCool.com Elite Roofing of Georgia 770-445-1290 www.roofelite.com

PETS Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.findingrover.com www.cherokeega-animals.org

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

North Georgia Foot and Ankle Reconstruction, Dr. Bret Hintze 770-999-0804 www.NGFAR.com

North Georgia Audiology 13 and Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 770-726-8948 www.NorthGeorgiaHearing.com Northside Hospital-Cherokee www.Northside.com

Wellstar/Mayo Clinic Inside front 770-956-7827, www.wellstar.org/mayo Woodstock Pediatric Medicine 770-517-0250 www.woodstockpeds.com

Cover, 36, 37

PHOTOGRAPHERS J King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.JKingImages.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage, Tara Daigle, Realtor 5 404-925-6351, tara@keatingbrs.com

EM Universal Services, LLC Reese, 678-773-2804

Grout Doctor, The 678-383-1311 www.GroutDoctor.com

Broadus Realty Group Donna Braodus, 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050 linda.lee@pelicanproperty.com

Professional Installed Wood Floors 404-975-7027 www.hardwoodproject.com

Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

INSURANCE

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)

Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 678-224-5722 www.ChildrensDentistWoodstock.com

EDUCATION/TUTORING

AUTOMOTIVE Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

For advertising rates and information please contact Patty Ponder, 770.615.3322, Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net

LANDSCAPING Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.LandscapeMattersInc.com

Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com

Soil Sense Landscape Group 678-483-5185 www.soilsenselandscape.com

Premier Group, The — Keller Williams 678-494-0102 www.TPGsells.com

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RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Fest

Dance Imagination 678-445-2731 www.DanceImagination.com

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.ElmStreetArts.org

Riverfest

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River Ridge Knights Football Sequoyah Chiefs Football Woodstock Wolverines Football

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RETAILERS/SHOPPING 35

Spirited 678-214-5304 www.spritlala.com

SERVICE LEAGUE OF CHEROKEE COUNTY PRESENTS

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HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS

Arts & CRafts FESTIVAL

BOLING PARK, CANTON

SATURDAY, SEPT 26 10AM– 6PM SUNDAY, SEPT 27 10AM–5PM

$5 DONATION FOR ADULTS FREE FOR CHILDREN 10 YEARS AND UNDER

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FREE PARKING AND SHUTTLE SERVICES ALL AREAS HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE RAIN OR SHINE

NO PETS, COOLERS, BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, Arts &ORCRafts FESTIVAL FIREARMS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ALLOWED ON SITE

PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE NEEDY CHILDREN OF CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA LEARN MORE AT SERVICELEAGUE.NET