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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
1
Contents September 2020
Page Relocation
Contributors
On the Cover
42 Chantel Adams
Family and treasured memories are important to owner Justin Page, with wife Brittany and son William.
39 Don Akridge 24 Stacy Brown
14 Cherokee Office of Economic Development
Pages 28 & 29
Cover photo by Alexia Loudermilk/ Alexia Nicole Photography
47 Katie Gibson
33 Dr. James Haley 41 Harry Johnston 46 Ann Litrel
40 Rob Macmillan 30 Edward Miller
26 Jenny Scarborough
27 Justin Spainhour-Roth 20 Teddy the Spaz Man 34 Tim Timmons 38 Pacita Wilson
14
Celebrating Black-Owned Businessess
Local business owners Shakalay Gibbs and Jerry King are featured in the Cherokee Office of Economic Development's recent series.
16
Noteworthy!
Our new feature celebrates the accomplishments of our neighbors and friends like Anita and Ken Corsini, who have created a mural in downtown to bring recognition to childhood cancer.
26
Support for Distance Learners
Teacher creates a Facebook page to offer social and educational support for students learning from home.
2
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
In Every Issue
4 Around Woodstock 8 Community News 12 Celebrations 16 Noteworthy
32 Everyday Angels 40 Rob’s Rescues
43 County Commission Highlights
48 Community Calendar
50 Cherokee Photo Club 52 Recent Home Sales
53 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide
54 Directory of Advertisers
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Around Woodstock Letter From the Editor
With every issue, we try to plant our roots a little deeper in the community, and become a bigger part of life around us. We aren’t kidding when we say, Your Community, Your Magazine. The fact that each of us lives in the community we serve makes our mission even more meaningful. In our newest feature, Noteworthy, debuting on Page 16 this month, we are bragging on you. Just like a proud parent, we believe everyone should know about the good things you are doing. Our community is filled with folks who encourage, inspire and help others, or achieve career goals and accomplishments that need to be celebrated. Most folks don’t want to talk about themselves, so we’ll do it for them! Of course, we have to lead by example, and show it’s OK to brag on yourself a little. Here’s the latest cool thing that’s happened to us. David Harrison, a U.S. history teacher at River Ridge High School, recently emailed me to ask how he could get a copy of the Around Woodstock issue that included the city’s history. I replied by sharing the link to our 16-page history issue, Around Cherokee, encouraging him to share it with his students. In an email exchange with Barbara Jacoby, the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, we learned that she also shared the history issue with the district’s Office of Curriculum & Instruction, so appropriate staff members could have access to it as well. Harrison commented that the 16-page special edition was especially helpful, because it included the history of Towne Lake, which we worked hard to include, as it’s something that hadn’t been researched and published before now. The staff at ALM is proud to be a part of the community in such a helpful way. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out Around Cherokee, which you can access from the home page at www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com. Speaking of education, we’d like to brag on Jenny Scarborough, who created a Facebook page to support families who chose distance learning for the beginning of the school year. When her page grew to 500 members within 24 hours, she knew she was meeting a need. At press time, more than 2,100 had joined. Read about her endeavor on Page 26. Search for The DL Kids of Cherokee County to find the Facebook page. If you want to brag on yourself, email me. I’ll act like that big sister or proud mama and we’ll see what we can do to let the world (starting with our readers) know how you are working to make it a better place!
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Woodstock. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Your Input Needed
Cherokee County needs your input on the
Southwest Cherokee Parks and Trails Plan. The
virtual public input meeting is Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. Email BDReynolds@CherokeeGA.com for information.
What's New
ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry is now open at 5341 Old Highway 5, Suite 208, in Woodstock. Doctors Tom and Lulu LaGree (she is a Woodstock native) are opening the practice to offer a fun experience for children. 470-523-8090. www.toothtownpd.com. Truck & Tap Woodstock has added a walkup window, where customers can order drinks; food orders still taken at the food trucks out back. Located at 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670. On Facebook. www.truckandtap.com.
FresqÓ Wings has opened at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, at 915 Ridgewalk Parkway. The restaurant features wings, chicken fingers and sandwiches. 770-824-3072. At press time, owners also planned to open FresqÓ Burger next door, in the former Johnny Rockets location, and will open FresqÓ Smoothie.
Sunny’s Express Car Wash recently opened at 10639 Highway 92. The modern car wash offers selfservice, accepts credit cards. 24-hour security cameras. 678-557-4159. On Facebook.
Woodstock’s Pie Bar has opened a second location, at 60 Powder Springs Street in Marietta. Online orders available at onlinepiebar.com. 678-402-6245.
What's Coming
Census takers may be knocking on your door. The completion deadline has been moved to Sept. 30, so the push is on to hire more census takers and canvas the county. Local officials urge residents to ask to see a valid ID badge with a photograph, and the U.S. Department of Commerce watermark and expiration date. To avoid a visit, respond online at www.2020Census.gov or by phone, 844-330-2020.
Who's Moved
Dawn Futch, a hair stylist formerly with Salon and Spa Venessa, has moved to Olive and Bloom Salon in Kennesaw. She can be reached at dawnfutch@gmail.com
Kudos
Forbes magazine has recognized Credit Union of Georgia as a Best-In-State Credit Union for the
second consecutive year.
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com
Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker
Our Mission
Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.
Results With Us
“We have developed a wonderful working relationship with Aroundabout Local Media. We appreciate their attention to detail and creative approach to the advertising and marketing needs of our office to the local Woodstock community ..." — Dr. Bruce Fink
ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Managing Editor/Social Media Strategist Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Community Board Rev. Dr. Joseph Cousin, Sr., Donnie Henriques, Kris McKeeth, Ross Wiseman, Renee Gable, Dan Thrailkill
Advertise With Us
Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Get Social With Us!
@AroundWoodstockMagazine @AroundWoodstock @around_woodstock
6
www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Around Woodstock, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 16,500 free copies. Approximately 15,700 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. See page 56 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 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around 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 2020
Around Woodstock
1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 7, Issue 11
America’s Community Magazine
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Local News Aviation, Veterans Groups Host Fundraisers Imagine what it would be like to fly above Lake Arrowhead in a UH-1 Huey, or in a Cobra attack helicopter! The Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum, in support of the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program, is teaming up to help keep a piece of Army Aviation history flying, while helping to raise funds for a Homeless Veterans Shelter in Cherokee County. Tickets are $150 per person for a Huey ride and $495 per person for a Cobra ride, fully re-fundable if it rains. You also can use them Oct. 24 and 25 at the Wings Over-North Georgia Air Show in Rome, Georgia. Reservations are limited. Proceeds benefit the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program (CCHVP), a 501(c)(19) veterans nonprofit. Tickets can be purchased by calling Jim Lindenmayer at 678-983-7590 or Betty Lewis at 770-318-6451. The CCHVP is hosting an Oct. 23 golf event at Lake Arrowhead to raise money for programs to benefit homeless veterans. Another aspect of the tournament is the opportunity to purchase signs honoring veterans or COVID-19 essential workers. The signs will be posted on a ridge, which can be seen by the golfers. Anyone who orders a sign can pick it up and display at their homes on Veterans Day. For more details, contact Jim Lindenmayer at 678-983-7590 or jlindenmayer80@gmail.com.
Savannah Smiles team members, from left: Lisa Browning, Michelle Donley, Adilka White, Monica Keheley, Pam Yoder and Joan Dellinger.
Virtual Fundraiser a Success for Next Step The numbers are in from this year’s Next Step Ministries Run, Walk or Roll 5K: 241 participants, 15 sponsors and $14,500 raised for the nonprofit, despite the virtual format. Executive Director Lori Baker said she is thankful for the support, and the photos submitted by all the Next Step supporters of the ways they participated in this major fundraiser. Next Step Ministries serves young adults with special needs. For more information, visit www.nextstepministries.net.
From left: Michael First; Katie Caldwell, president-elect of the Elm Street board; J. Kent Burklow, Christopher Brazelton, and Ann Litrel, president.
Elm Street Welcomes Grant
Rides in a Huey helicopter will be available to help raise money for veterans. 8
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village was given a $20,000 grant from the Rucker-Donnell Foundation, a Tennessee-based and nationally recognized charitable foundation. The money will go toward construction costs for the nonprofit arts organization’s project of building a visual arts facility from the historic Reeves House. The visual arts facility will feature a gallery for rotating exhibits, classroom and artist studios, and a coffee shop/wine bar. Elm Street’s current art classes operate from their administrative offices, making the completion of the Reeves House pivotal in providing a dedicated space for local artists and robust visual arts programming. Elm Street was introduced to the Rucker-Donnell Foundation through board member, Michael First. He fostered the relationship with J. Kent Burklow, president and trustee of the foundation. First and Burklow are longtime residents of Towne Lake.
Sandwich Bill Clears Way for 2021 Summer Lunch Program Thanks to the passage of Senate Bill 345, nonprofit groups will be able to make and accept sandwiches for at-risk children when schools are closed. Last month, Gov. Brian Kemp signed the legislation, known as the Save Our Sandwiches Bill. The bill was developed after state health inspectors halted the MUST summer food program that has been serving 5,000-7,000 children in seven counties during the 10-week break from school. A technicality in state law kept MUST from receiving and distributing donated sandwiches and forced MUST to raise more than $250,000 to continue to serve children in need. “Sadly, the news came to us right before the summer started and we had little time to reorganize our plan and raise the money. To be honest, it was a nightmare for our team, but we couldn’t walk away from our youngest hungry clients,” said Ike Reighard, MUST president and CEO. “Fortunately, our donors, the media, our legislators and, really, the whole community rallied behind us and started working to change the law and help us get through this trying time.” This year, the Legislature was almost to the point of passing the bill when COVID-19 hit and the session was postponed. MUST again scrambled to purchase meals and secure donations, but the children were fed. “We thought last year was difficult, but it was only a warmup for 2020. The good news is that the Legislature came back in session and soundly put the bill through. Next year, we can accept sandwiches from churches, businesses and other groups that have kitchens. The only change is that we can no longer accept sandwiches made in homes,” Reighard said. “We are so blessed that we have never had an incident with our food. In 25 years of feeding more than 2 million meals, our children have found help and hope in Summer Lunch.”
MUST Tournament Breaks a Record The Cherokee Golf Tournament benefiting MUST Ministries, held July 20 at Woodmont Golf and Country Club, raised a record $65,000 for the nonprofit. Among the participants were, from left: Don Hausfield of the Landon Group; Billy Hayes, CEO of Northside Hospital Cherokee; Wes Latimer, owner of Latimer Construction, and County Manager Jerry Cooper.
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Local News
Be a Part of Search for Pollinators
On Sept. 5, members of the community can take part in the Woodstock Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz, a gathering at Dupree Park that will help park staff members create a snapshot of the variety of wildlife that can be found in the county’s parks. Participants will use an app to take pictures of plants, insects and animals, to see what wildlife is present in the park on that day. The survey will offer information about local pollinators, which are essential to the ecosystem. The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is hosted on the iNaturalist app, which can be found at www.inaturalist.org, or in your phone’s app store. Register at https://bit.ly/3gzrKYy (the form can be found at www.woodstockga.gov, under the parks and recreation tab.) Participants are asked to meet at 9 a.m. at the concession stand pavilion at Dupree Park, 513 Neese Road, in Woodstock. Be sure you bring your mobile phone or tablet with the app downloaded. For more information, email ParksForPollinators@woodstockga.gov.
Nonprofit Gains Accreditation HopeQuest, aWoodstock organization dedicated to helping people dealing with addictions, recently received the highest three-year accreditation for its residential program (RTC), intensive outpatient program (IOP), and outpatient counseling program (OP) from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). HopeQuest, situated on 18 acres in south Cherokee County, has a mission to help individuals and families impacted by addiction to discover God’s plans for freedom and hope. Visit https://hopequestgroup.org, or call 678-391-5950.
The open-air mobile workforce workshop is equipped with appropriate safety measures, to maintain social distance guidelines. Watch for tour dates on the website, beprobeproudga.org.
Connecting Young People to Skilled Trades The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) recently announced the launch of Be Pro Be Proud Georgia, an initiative designed to spark interest in the essential skilled professions. Students take part in a fun, interactive experience inside a mobile workforce workshop, an impressive 40-foot rig equipped with simulations of Georgia’s most in-demand skilled professions, powered by the latest industry-driven technology. This initiative plans to fill the gaps created by the more than 47% of Georgia’s skilled professionals older than 45 who are nearing retirement. The state’s first mobile workforce workshop of its kind offers an interactive, hands-on tour of careers in commercial truck driving, health care, plumbing, welding and robotics, as well as an off-board skills challenge. Along with the mobile workshop, the newly launched beprobeproudga. org website promotes 13 skilled professions with 10% or more growth potential, and links to needed training and area industries who are hiring within these professions. To ensure safety, the open-air mobile workforce workshop has been equipped with appropriate sanitization measures. As part of the Cherokee By Choice public-private partnership aimed at promoting economic growth, COED continues to spearhead talent development through workforce initiatives, such as the promotion of local jobs on cherokeega.org, the Cherokee Career Expo, high school internships, and Be Pro Be Proud Georgia, the most ambitious initiative to date.
Life Jacket Loaner Station Installed
From left: Fire Chief Tim Prather; Senior Fire and Life Educator Lisa Grisham; Assistant Chief Eddie Robinson; Woodstock Parks and Recreation Director Michael D. Huffstetler; Woodstock Fire and Rescue’s Sgt. George Williams, and Tow Boat US and Boat US Foundation’s Chris Day. 10
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Safe Kids Cherokee County is helping kids and adults stay safer with a new life jacket loaner station at Rope Mill Park. The station has life jackets for those who need one to borrow, and return, while they are boating, kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing. It also offers education on how to properly fit a life jacket. Along with community partners, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, Woodstock Fire and Boat US Foundation dedicated the station for Woodstock Parks and Recreation. Safe Kids Cherokee and Boat US Foundation will supply life jackets as needed, and Woodstock Parks and Recreation will maintain it. Visit safekidscherokeecounty.org, or call 678-493-4343.
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Celebrations!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
E-mail to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com October deadline is Sept. 10. Please specify Around Woodstock.
Mia and Ryan
Catherine and Caroline Field
Ready for Woodstock Middle School!
Brooks Michael Herod
Born Aug. 1 To parents Austin and Devin Herod and proud grandparents Kirk and Shelley Herod.
Harper
Happy 4th birthday to our love bug and silly goose! We love you, muy mucho, always and forever!
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Celebrating the first day of school.
Archer Pellegrino
Happy 4th birthday to our beautiful boy. We love you! XoXo, Mommy, Daddy and Corbin.
Noah
Sept. 13 Happy 14th birthday!
Stella
Excited to go back to Woodstock Elementary School!
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Black Business Owners Overcoming Challenges to Success Shalakay Gibbs
How have you overcome obstacles youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve faced?
One of the biggest challenges that I have had to overcome was moving to New York as a student at 22. As a foreign student, there are many restrictions in terms of being able to work. It is a very expensive process, and not being able to work makes it very challenging. Luckily, I had an entrepreneurial spirit and was very frugal. I purchased in-demand items that would sell easily on my return trips to Jamaica, and lived sparingly on the funds.
Has COVID-19 caused you or your business to adapt?
SuiteSciens
www.suitesciens.com Gibbs grew up in Jamaica with parents who were small-business owners. After moving to New York as a student at age 22, she overcame challenges, taught herself NetSuite services, and worked hard for years. Now, living in Woodstock, she is the founder of a growing online company, SuiteSciens.
How did you become an entrepreneur? What is SuiteSciens? I grew up in Jamaica with parents who were small-business owners, observing firsthand the level of freedom that owning a business provides. Early in my career, I worked as a NetSuite administrator, configuring and maintaining a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s software applications to maximize their workflow to achieve organizational objectives and business goals. Using NetSuite, I specialize in helping an organization automate their financial software and accounting procedures, while also helping them connect their financial activities to their general business activities. I later became a NetSuite consultant, and then leveraged my experience into forming a small consulting firm, providing NetSuite Implementation and Development Services. 14
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
2020 is an opportunity to rethink our business structure, and the way we service our clients. Although our business operates 100% in the cloud, our business model included a heavy travel schedule to client sites. The pandemic has forced us to re-evaluate our travel, and discover new ways to demonstrate value to our clients without being physically present.
How did you stay positive in the midst of challenges?
Sometimes it helps to take a micro view of life when the macro view becomes overwhelming. At times, when I feel overly challenged, I focus on a single problem that I can solve. There is a certain satisfaction that comes with completing a task that makes it easier to have a positive outlook.
How are you working to stay competitive?
We have extended our partnership network, to include more vendors within the NetSuite ecosystem, and have enhanced our services, to include integration with various platforms via our new partner, Celigo. Our consultants are also engaging in additional training, and developing more skills to better service our clients.
What lessons have you learned about yourself or your business?
We are getting to know our customers better; surveying them to better understand what delights them and where we can improve.
Aroundabout Local Media values our partnership with the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED). We enjoy sharing their content, because their mission is so similar to ours: supporting small local businesses. The COED shared profiles of local Black business owners during August, which was Black-Owned Business Month in America. Because this is a timeless and important commemoration, we wanted to share those interviews with you. These inspiring stories will shed a well-deserved light on their incredible leadership and resilience. You can see the interviews in their entirety at cherokeega.org, or on the COED social media outlets.
Jerry King
How have you overcome obstacles you’ve faced?
When I first moved to Woodstock, I was not quite sure how I would be perceived in the community. I was concerned the color of my skin might influence my opportunities, when it came to the new business venture. I initially used my fiancée’s or daughter’s photo as the business avatars. I soon decided to use my own photo. I figured, if someone was going to take issue with my race, I did not want them as a client anyway. I personally feel that my work should speak for me, and hopefully open dialogue, so people can see we are not all that different.
J. King Images
www.jkingimages.com King specializes in headshots and professional portrait photography. His goal is to provide clients with all the images they need to successfully market themselves. He enjoys teaching and helping people look their best in front of the lens.
How did you become an entrepreneur? What is J. King Images?
I am originally from Corinth, Mississippi, a fairly small city in the northeast corner of the state. I joined the military after high school, and spent 1988 to 1998 as a forward observer in the U.S. Army. My last three years were spent at Fort Bragg, N.C. After leaving the Army, I joined the DeKalb County Police Department. During my 17 years as an officer, I spent 11 of those on the SWAT team. It was during this time that I picked up a camera and fell in love with photography. Actually, I completely geeked out on it, and started devoting all my free time to photography. Eventually, with the encouragement of my fiancée, Tabitha, I resigned from law enforcement to pursue photography full time.
Has COVID-19 caused you or your business to adapt?
It has caused me to reflect and take a hard look at myself and J. King Images. I value my work more now than I did prior to the pandemic. It is funny how that worked, but it is true. I did not turtle up and wait for the sky to fall. I just kept looking for new opportunities, without being tone-deaf to what is going on in the world.
How did you stay positive in the midst of challenges?
I always look at the positive. Negativity will get you nowhere. If you are reading this, you are a survivor. It is easy to blame others for our present situations. If we take an honest look at ourselves, and realize we are our biggest obstacle, we can navigate around it and move forward, grow, and achieve.
How are you working to stay competitive?
I try to stay visible by just being out in the community any way I safely can. Social media is hot right now. Hotter than it has been in a while. If you are an entrepreneur, you can find your audience easier, because people are tired of the doom and gloom in their feeds. Give them something to feel good about.
What lessons have you learned about yourself or your business?
I am not now, nor have I ever been, a quitter. I take it day by day, and I do not lose sight of why I started this venture. I have faith. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
15
Around Cherokee is Getting Around Welcome to the newest Aroundabout Local Media (ALM) feature. Each month, we will dedicate space to sharing the good things that are happening: job promotions, professional accomplishments, volunteer activities … pretty much however you are changing the world! Let us know about your accomplishments - don’t be shy. It’s okay to brag on yourself or someone you know. I’m happy to lead by example. Read on for the latest cool thing that’s happened to us at ALM. Email candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com with a short description and photo of something or someone that’s made you proud. I look forward to hearing from you!
Local Photographer Gets National Exposure
Photos taken by Ball Ground photographer Teena Coogle were used in a People magazine feature on essential workers. Her pictures of Canton mail carrier Krysten Wilson appeared in the May 11, 2020 issue: one on the table of contents and one on the inside spread. Krysten was part of a spotlight on essential workers around the country, and she reached out to Teena, who had photographed Krysten’s family in the past, to take pictures. “I’ve seen my photos on billboards, local magazines and winning local photography contests, but this was surreal,” Teena said. “It took me a few minutes to gather myself together and not yell out to everyone in the grocery store to look at what I had accomplished! I was so excited and so proud of myself.” 16
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
David Harrison, a U.S. history teacher at River Ridge High School, recently emailed us to ask how he could get a copy of the Around Woodstock issue that included the city’s history. I replied by sharing the link to our 16-page history issue, Around Cherokee, and encouraged him to share it with his students as he saw fit. In an email exchange with Barbara Jacoby, the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, we learned that she also shared the link to the history issue with the Office of Curriculum & Instruction, so appropriate staff members could have access as well. The issue was especially helpful because it included the history of Towne Lake, something that hasn’t been researched and published before now. The staff at ALM is proud to be a part of the community in such a helpful way. We love what we do and are grateful that we were able to contribute, in a small way, to the education of our community’s students! If you want to read this issue, or print a copy for yourself, you can find it at www.aroundwoodstockmagazine. com. Just scroll down to the link on the right side of the home page.
Blogger Recognized for Fall Decor and More
If you’ve picked up a copy of The Cottage Life’s autumn issue, look for a five-page spread featuring the beautifully decorated Canton home of Amanda Becker, creator of the blog Sincerely, Marie Designs. Photos featuring her fall decor caught the attention of that magazine’s editors, who reached out to her, asking to feature shots from her 2019 fall home tour. “Each year I participate in seasonal home tours on the blog. We’ve been so thrilled to have our spring home tour also featured last year, and our Christmas home tour from 2019 will be featured this winter by American Farmhouse Magazine.” Amanda created Sincerely, Marie Designs (https://sincerelymariedesigns.com) as an outlet after she left full time work to be home with her newborn son six years ago. Fast forward to September 2020: the blog has more than 50,000 readers, including subscribers and social media followers, and she is renovating her second home with her husband Josh. “My goal has always been to encourage others to take on design projects in their own home and to share with them our budget-friendly how-tos,” Amanda said. “It's a big accomplishment to have my work noticed and featured. As a decorator and blogger, I know many of the other people who are featured in the same publications, and to see all of our hard work published is such a treat!”
Lighting the Way for Others
Sept. 1 is now Childhood Cancer Awareness Day in Georgia, thanks, in part, to the efforts of David and Elizabeth Fige and their daughter Katelyn, a brain cancer survivor. Their journey to help Katelyn survive Stage IV Pineoblastoma led them to the state Capitol to witness Gov. Brian Kemp signing SB 340 into law, which made the Awareness Day official. When Katelyn was diagnosed in March 2015, David said they learned that her treatment protocol was more than 30 years old. “I dug a little deeper and found out that federal cancer research dollars directed to childhood cancers are less than 4% of all funding, even though forty-six kids every day are diagnosed with childhood cancer.” In the midst of their fight for Katelyn’s life, the Figes decided it was time to bring more awareness to the plight of children facing cancer. David describes himself as one part of a very long process, complicated by numerous delays and the COVID-19 shutdown. “I was just the head coach. Without so many moms and dads making phone calls, Representatives Sheri Gilligan and Deborah Silcox, and Sen. Brandon Beach, this would have never gotten to the finish line this year.” Since signing day on Aug. 5, Gov. Kemp texts the family each week to check on Katelyn, who David says has her ups and downs. “Her body was devastated by her antiquated treatment protocol. I just want other children not to have to deal with what Katelyn has, which is why I’m so passionate about this.”
Gov. Kemp with Katelyn. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
17
This Teacher is a Lifesaver
continued from page 17
Bascomb Elementary School paraprofessional Shawn Lisle was in the cafeteria during lunchtime recently when she saw a student in distress. Third-grader Parker Davis was choking on a grape, and Lisle used the Heimlich maneuver to save her from choking. “We’re so grateful to Ms. Lisle for her quick thinking and use of her training to save Parker,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower said. “Our staff members are essential workers whose public service improves the lives of every student they serve, and I am so proud and grateful for Ms. Lisle’s actions. She’s a superhero!”
Anita Corsini in front of the new Woodstock Wings.
Wings Bring Awareness to Childhood Cancer
A new mural on the side of the REDBaRN Real Estate building in downtown Woodstock, on Wall Street, was painted to honor the children and their families who are fighting or have fought childhood cancer. On July 25, 2014, the founders of Red Barn Homes, Anita and Ken Corsini, were told that their son Rocco had cancer. “His perseverance to push through the unbearable was inspiring. We are extremely proud of him, and thankful to God for his health and strength today,” Anita said. They started a foundation in his honor, Roc.Star Kids, to support families fighting childhood cancer. To learn more, visit www.rocstarkids.com. Enjoy the mural, take pictures, and share with the hashtags #WoodstockWings and #RocStarKids, and follow @RocStarKidsGa and @anitacorsini on Instagram to see your pictures shared. The mural was painted by Sage Recchia and the paint was donated by Sherwin Williams.
Woodstock - Towne Lake 145 Towne Lake Pkwy Suite 201
(770) 592-5554
Find us near you at SmileDoctors.com
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Canton
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(770) 345-4155
Shawn Lisle with Parker Davis.
Michael D. Williams, DMD, MS Sunya Sweeney, DMD
Same Day Braces 0% Interest
Se habla Español Smile Doctors of Georgia - Dana E. Fender, D.M.D.
Pinetree Country Club September 14, 2020 3400 McCollum Parkway Kennesaw, GA 30144 Seeking sponsorships, teams and players. For details: abolton@mustministries.org AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Teddy the Spaz Man
“I was in a spelling bee, the word was Handsome. I said, ‘Handsome. T-E-D-D-Y. Handsome.’”
Teddy is one of our favorite local celebrities. He used to write for us on a fairly regular basis, but then he got some modeling gig and decided he was “all that.” The truth is … we agree! He shared some of his latest photos with us, so we could share them with you. He even wrote his own captions, because, well, that’s how Teddy rolls!
“When I hear a food wrapper.”
“Love makes me smile. And by love, I mean bacon.”
“What, you think I'm lookin' at you like this 'cause I wanna bite of your sandwich? That's ridiculous. I want the whole thing.” 20
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“Dad was lookin' for the controller so I hollered, ‘I think she's in the kitchen!’"
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Weekly YPOW meetings are held outdoors on the Elm Street Event Green. https://inwdstk.org/event/ypow-am/all.
Social Distancing in Woodstock 1 Million Cups meets at The Circuit and on location, with an active livestream for folks who participate from home. www.1millioncups.com/cherokee.
In August, the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce held its monthly breakfast gathering at First Baptist Woodstock, where there was plenty of room indoors to keep a distance. www.cherokeechamber.org. 22
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In case you were on the fence about attending recent business and civic gatherings, we thought you would like to see what a few of those meetings look like with health and safety guidelines in place.
Dan Thrailkill joins other chamber members who brought their own breakfast, which they enjoyed in the parking lot before going inside for the meeting.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
5341 Old Highway 5 Suite 208 Woodstock, GA 30188
470-523-8090 www.toothtownPD.com www.facebook.com/ToothTownPD
• The business.
“Dr. Lulu is sweet and patient and gave me several options on how to treat my daughter's cavities. I picked the one with the least amount of sedation and my daughter has always done great getting her fillings with Dr. Lulu. In fact, she loves going to the dentist now and looks forward to every visit. My son (who doesn't really like anyone besides myself!), has always loved coming to the dentist and loves seeing Dr. Tom for his checkups. We are so grateful for the care we have received and are so happy to find dentists we can trust.” - Lisa Scott
ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to treating infants, children, teens and individuals with special healthcare needs in the most caring and comfortable way. The concept is simple: provide the highest quality care with a positive and fun environment that kids will enjoy. The husband and wife team of Dr. Tom LaGree and Dr. Lulu Elkaiali offers comprehensive dental care, ranging from low radiation dental X-rays to laughing gas to sedation, and everything in between in a new, state-ofthe-art dental facility. The goal is to create a true dental home for each patient by forming relationships with them and their families.
• What’s unique.
A new standard for pediatric dentistry is the goal of ToothTown; gone are the days of stuffy, unwelcoming offices that do not cater to kids. Once patients walk into ToothTown, they should feel the difference. There will be lots of jokes, singing, games and prizes; they want all kids to want to come to the dentist. Each child is unique, so every plan is catered to the individual child ensuring that they will be best served, not only in terms of oral health but their emotional health as well.
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WEEK 1: Sept. 1-5
Are You Ready?
Make a plan for your household by discussing how you will receive emergency alerts, what you will do to shelter in place, or evacuate if necessary, how you will communicate with loved ones, and what you need for an emergency preparedness kit. There is a link to a very thorough template at ready.gov on the National Preparedness Month page. You can complete the document and make copies to keep in cars, purses or backpacks, so each member of your household can refer to it in the event of an emergency.
WEEK 2: Sept. 6-12
4
Weeks to Being Prepared in Case of Emergency BY STACY BROWN
Woodstock city officials urge all citizens and businesses to make or update a disaster plan during the month of September, which has been declared Natural Preparedness Month by the Department of Homeland Security. As we continue to respond to COVID-19, there’s no better time to update your plan. You can find resources to help you at ready.gov. The Department of Homeland Security suggests weekly activities to do this month, so that you are ready for whatever comes. Woodstock Fire and Rescue recommends that you take time in September to check the batteries in your smoke detectors. Having multiple smoke detectors in your home may reduce the time it takes for smoke to activate the alarm. Also, check your fire extinguishers, making sure they are visible, unobstructed, and have no signs of damage, corrosion or leakage. Finally, take time to learn more from the American Red Cross at redcross.org. You can sign up to receive preparedness times, get involved as a volunteer, and shop in the online store for emergency preparedness gear and first aid kits.
Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 770-592-6056 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.
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Build your kit. Gather what you will need to stay at home or evacuate to a safer location in the event of an emergency. Ready.gov lists recommended items for a basic emergency supply kit. You need one gallon of water per person per day, for at least three days, for drinking and hygiene, as well as a three-day supply of food. Don’t forget pets’ needs for food and water. Other items recommended include first aid kits, dust masks, plastic sheeting and duct tape. It’s suggested that you keep important family documents, like insurance policies, identification and bank records, saved electronically, or in a waterproof, portable container.
WEEK 3: Sept. 13-19 Limit the impact a disaster may have on your household. Think about the potential for major storm damage. Make sure your homeowners or renters insurance policy covers all of your needs. Sign up to receive emergency alerts. If you click STAY CONNECTED on woodstockga. gov, you will find a link to sign up for Cherokee Sheriff 's Office updates through CodeRED.
WEEK 4: Sept. 20-26 Teach your children about preparedness. There are resources for kids, teens, families and educators on ready.gov, including information on coping when disaster strikes, and financial preparedness. There are also resources available in Spanish.
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Facebook to the Rescue Teacher creates community to support distance learners. BY JENNY SCARBOROUGH
Two days before the June 17 deadline to choose between digital or face-to-face learning for the new school year, I was making every attempt to determine what was best for By the time we reached 1,500 my sons. I researched medical websites and members, we had divided into subgroups studied fact-checkers that analyzed news reports. for Pre-K through 12th grade, as well as a I sought the advice of my retired-educator parents. group for special education students. Admins in My husband was in a month-by-month, work-from-home these groups are organizing by schools and teachers, situation, and I would not be able to stay home because setting up connections, and rallying to keep each other I am a teacher. Luckily, that day, we received informal strong. One mom in the 6th grade subgroup organized confirmation that my husband would be home through a virtual meet-and-greet for the kids December, so we chose digital learning and had her son moderate it, complete for our sons, who are in third and sixth with talking points. After the meeting, grades. Our biggest worry was their socialThe DL Kids of broke off to play their favorite emotional health and the consequences of Cherokee County they online games together. At this moment I keeping them from social connections. realized this was the community I hoped I did what everyone around me seemed This is a group for families would form. A community lifting up to be doing during their summer of in Cherokee County, Georgia, each other, helping navigate this unique isolation: I looked to social media. People who have chosen digital experience. on Facebook were creating or joining learning due to the COVID-19 As of Aug. 4, as I sit putting the final groups that kept them connected with pandemic. This group was touches on this article, our membership others in Cherokee County who had started to help parents find is 1,982. [At press time, the number had common interests and concerns. I read connections for their children grown to 2,129]. Parents continue to through local groups, hoping to find a and help maintain their help each other find answers to questions family in our situation. The rhetoric became children's social-emotional and find patience as teachers and schools overwhelming, so I decided to create my health. We have become work tirelessly to pull everything together. own group – The DL Kids of Cherokee a community of parents Retired teachers and former teachers County. I reasoned that if I found 10 people supporting each other as we are offering to help our kids by tutoring, like me, it would be a success. help our children navigate organizing social activities, and facilitating What occurred was the equivalent of these unprecedented times pods so parents can continue working. digging a tiny hole in the ground and … It takes a village to raise a (Pods are small groups of students suddenly striking oil. Within 24 hours, child. We are that village. who work on schoolwork at the same 500 people asked to become members. I location.) We have started albums within recognized the need and started organizing. the groups to better disseminate information. I set up posts for different grade levels and encouraged The biggest surprise was how quickly this happened. I people to tell what schools they attend. Over the next 24 set out to find connections for my own children and, in hours, our number grew to 700. I asked for volunteers less than seven days, found a community of parents able to help as co-administrators, and two wonderful ladies to set aside differences and focus on what is truly most answered the call. I would be unable to manage the group important: the children. without their insight and perspectives. As the digital learning deadline passed, membership jumped to more than 1,200. I was amazed at the response. Parents who had chosen digital learning wanted to know what other Jenny Scarborough, a teacher of 24 years, has families were doing. Parents who were on the fence taught in Cherokee County since 2007. She is wanted to see if their ideas were feasible. Most of all, married and has two sons in third and sixth grades. parents wanted empathy and understanding.
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Everything Old Is New Again BY JUSTIN SPAINHOUR-ROTH
“I’m old-fashioned, I love the moonlight. I love the old-fashioned things: The sound of rain Upon a window pane, The starry song that April sings.” Apologies in advance for that song being stuck in your head now. I’m a big fan of jazz, but I have a personal love for songs from the Great American Songbook – or standards as they’re more widely known. These are songs that were staples of American pop music from the 1920s through the ’50s, and were often from Broadway or movie musicals. Songwriters such as Irving Berlin, the Gershwins, Duke Ellington, and Cole Porter created musical canvases that singers and bandleaders used for their own auditory artwork (and still do!). For me, that’s what makes these songs so special. The fact that songs from 100 years ago are still being played and reinterpreted is a testament to the impact they have on us. They still work. I think that idea’s true on a broader scale, too. While we’ve been pretty creative at Elm Street the past few months during these (insert adjective of your choice) times, we've also gone back to our roots and focused on our standards, such as education. Like a contemporary jazz musician taking an old song and making it fresh, we’re doing that with our educational programming. For us, summer camp is a staple students and parents look forward to, and we were fortunate to still offer that experience this year, slightly modified in order to be safe and fun. When it came time to decide on how we wanted to approach the fall, it made perfect sense to launch a new fall break camp for students who might not have been able to participate during summer. There’s something invigorating about going back to your roots with a different approach, and my challenge to you is to find something that allows you to do that. Revamp an old family recipe by changing a few ingredients. Create a digital scrapbook with some of your favorite memories. Have a staycation and try something new, like signing up for fall break camp, or spending an evening under the stars with The Black Market Trust, a jazz group who makes those familiar tunes new again. “I know I'm old-fashioned, But I don't mind it. That's how I want to be As long as you agree To stay old-fashioned with me.” Justin Spainhour-Roth, education and marketing coordinator for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, has a bachelor of arts in communication in musical theater from Bowling Green State University.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
Landscape of Guitar The Black Market Trust Flamenco Folk | Lantern Series
SEPT 19, 2020 Returning from our Inaugural Season!
Swing Jazz|Lantern Series
SEPT 26, 2020
Sammy Rae & The Friends Indie Funk | Lantern Series
OCT 17, 2020 NEW!
Registration OPEN for
FALL BREAK CAMPS Ages 8-13 | 1 week camps available during
SEPT 21-25
REGISTER TODAY!
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Moving Memories
A Trusted Choice in Transporting Personal, Commercial and Corporate Treasures
J
ALEXIA LOUDERMILK/ALEXIA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Justin Page meets with customer Lex Geddings in his Canton home
ustin Page has a vision for his new moving company, Page Relocation, one that goes deeper than what’s outlined in his mission statement, which is impressive on its own. Page promises to “provide high quality, efficient and caring solutions for the transport of your possessions from start to delivery with the reverence it deserves.” His ultimate desire is to protect the memories that his clients value, even if they come in the form of old, heavy pianos. “Recently, we did a move that I like to call ‘Tear Stains on the Old Piano.’ Page Relocation had the privilege of relocating a piano from Cumming to Watkinsville. At first glance, it may just look like an old, worn-down upright piano, but the roots of this piano are far deeper than you can ever imagine. “In 1968, a husband and wife by the name of Wendall and Dot Williams purchased this piano. For over 50 years, this piano has
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
been played by the Williams family and has been the source of many blessings to a lot of people. Every time the Williams family would gather at Mama’s house, they would gather around this piano and sing. The power of God would fall down so strong in that little house that the tears would start flowing. You talk about church — they had church. “After Dot Williams passed away, the family wanted to make sure this piano had the perfect home. It ended up in the home of Benny and Louise Grogan, and was the source of many more blessings as their precious granddaughters learned to play and sing on this piano. Despite the fact that the piano had a good home, the Williams family missed it. So, the Grogan family gifted it back to the Williams family. Dot’s daughter, Betty Campbell, hired Page Relocation to pick up the piano from the Grogan house. A flood of emotions hit us all as we thought about the history of this piano. We all felt the sweetest spirit as we moved the piano. We just know it was Dot! It may have been old, but we treated it like it was the most expensive baby grand on the market. I know Dot would have been proud of us for taking care of this precious piano. Now, it’s back with the immediate family and Dot’s great, great grandson Jace will be learning on this piano. What a blessing!”
Safe, Accurate Estimates
Just as Page understands the value of moving precious furniture, he’s committed to offering potential clients the most accurate estimate he can, in a safe and secure way. He uses Yembo A.I., a software that allows customers to send a smartphone video of the furniture and rooms in their home,and receive an estimate within 48 hours. This technology keeps clients from taking time off work or rearranging their schedule to attend a walk-through. “Yembo uses advanced deep learning technology and understands videos just like humans do. It recognizes rooms, furniture, applications, as well as their size and weight,” Page said. “With the same cutting-edge algorithms that NASA uses, Yembo enables us to accurately count objects without being there in person. Anyone with a mobile web browser can use this platform.”
his company in his home county. He and wife Brittany were born and raised in Cherokee County, and are excited to raise their son here.
Other Perks of Page Relocation
Hands-on Experience
1. No stress. The company’s goal is “to relieve stress from the emotional challenge of relocation.” The philosophy statement: “We are based in Christian leadership principles of integrity, compassion, caring and service.”
2. Qualified staff. Page doesn’t use sub-contractors as drivers or movers. Employees are E-verified and on a W2 pay system. Background checks and drug tests are required, as well as a sixyear clean driving history. 3. Proper protection. Page prepares for each move by
applying padding to doors, hallways, floors and anything else that needs to be protected. Each piece of furniture is wrapped, so clients know their belongings are safe.
4. Community commitment. While Page Relocation
serves Metro Atlanta and North Georgia, Page wanted to start
Justin has more than 15 years of experience in the moving industry. In fact, inspiration for starting Page Relocation came from Dave Graebel, his former employer and owner of Graebel Van Lines. Graebel often reminisced about starting a major moving company with one man and one truck in 1950. After much prayer, Page decided it was time to take a chance and start his business in June. “Now, it’s my time to make my dream come true. It is my time to lead and make a difference! It is my time to remind every young man or woman that if you work hard and treat people right, your dream can also come true. There will be people along the way that won’t believe in you, I want to remind every single person reading this that you are worthy, you are blessed, and you are highly favored. No matter what anyone tells you, never lose hope. Keep believing in yourself and trust that God has a plan.”
Page Relocation | 770-224-8184 | www.PageRelocation.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Struggle Changes Moon’s Outlook, Habits BY EDWARD MILLER
Before the July Fourth holiday, Jeff Moon’s biggest concerns were the positive results from COVID-19 tests taken by his wife and 17-year-old son. Neither was hospitalized, but it wasn’t long before Moon, the city manager in Woodstock, tested positive himself. “I self-quarantined after Nancy and Chason were tested,” Moon said, “but soon developed the telltale symptoms for COVID-19 –– fever, headaches and coughing.” Because Moon had had asthma since childhood, he was concerned doubly about exposure to the coronavirus. The illness soon settled in his lungs, and he was diagnosed with COVID-related pneumonia. After two weeks in Northside Hospital Cherokee, Moon is home, but tethered to supplemental oxygen most of the day. Recovering at home, Moon continues to work, with the help of an assistant city manager and the support of Woodstock’s mayor and City Council. The experience has altered Moon’s outlook and
habits. “Before this happened, I was something of a nonbeliever about masks, so I didn’t wear one,” he said. “You can believe that has changed.” Jeff Moon has become a firm believer in He also is wearing masks since his experience with distressed when he COVID-19. sees anti-maskers on Facebook. “If they had gone through what I have, they wouldn’t be calling it just the flu,” Moon said. “Believe me, we all need to take this disease very seriously.” Edward Miller is managing partner at Cindy Miller Communications, a strategic communications company specializing in storytelling, crisis communications and corporate communications. He lives in Woodstock.
Brothers Helping Brothers in Time of Need On Aug. 10, a powerful storm system roared across the Midwest, killing at least two people and also causing widespread damage to millions of acres of crops. By the time the storm hit Des Moines, Iowa, wind gusts were clocked at more than 100 miles per hour. The storm also hit Marion, Iowa, which is about 120 miles northeast of Des Moines, and the hometown of Woodstock police officer and former Brothers helping brothers, from left: Shane Bonebrake with Lt. James Gravitt, Sgt. Nakoa firefighter Shane Bonebrake. In Bedwell, Nick Rodriguez and Anthony Ciorba of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. response to the storm’s damage, Bonebrake began a campaign to collect and organize the donations at the church,” fill a truck with donations to be delivered to Marion. Davis said. Battalion Chief Chad Davis said that Cherokee County However, Ciorba wanted to do more. He compiled a firefighter Anthony Ciorba saw a video of Bonebrake list of needed supplies, and reached out to members of speaking about his drive to collect food items and supplies his recruit class, his crew and others for help. Firefighters for the people of Marion, and decided to help. brought donations to the church, just in time for the “Anthony went down to His Hands Church, to ask 800-mile trip to Iowa. Shane what he could do to help, and started helping to
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THE ESSENTIAL QUESTION:
Who Am I?
T
here is no shortage of conversation about what should be taught in our schools, from adopting Common Core standards to more schools recognizing the power of brain-based learning. It is exciting and encouraging that these conversations are happening; now we need to make sure our focus is where it should be. Despite the ongoing conversation about what subjects deserve more attention in our classrooms, the reality is the most important subject students need to be focusing on is themselves. The most essential question students need to explore is, “Who am I?” Kids today are bombarded with messages from television, the Internet, their parents and their peers about who they should and shouldn’t be. This process of identity development really becomes important during adolescence.
In his theory of psychosocial development, psychologist Erik Erikson says that the primary human focus during ages 12-18 is to develop a sense of self and personal identity. In our schools, we unrealistically expect our kids to develop this by the time they graduate high school so that they can enter college with some idea about what they want to spend C.O.R.E. kids being themselves at Buckeye Creek Farm. their lives doing. In our As the parents and teachers of homes, many parents spend children who learn differently, we are more energy scheduling activities for essentially their identity guides, and it is their kids than they do talking to them our responsibility to help them explore about who they are or how they think. and discover who they are. At CORE Add to these messages the multitude of Community School, we have developed labels that many children with learning the C.O.R.E. Identity Development differences are given, and it’s no surprise Program to consciously guide our kids that many kids struggle to know their through the identity process. true identity. We need to shift our For more information, email expectations and our energy to focus less corecommunityschool@thecoreschool.org on the end result and more on the process or visit thecoreschool.org. of identity development.
CORE COMMUNITY SCHOOL | 203 Woodpark Place, Bldg. A, Woodstock 30188 | 770-704-9144 | www.thecoreschool.org Sponsored Content
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.
Twenty years ago, Canton resident Brian Miller, 33, was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy, a kidney disease that often requires a kidney transplant. At that time, Brian’s father was a candidate and successfully donated his kidney to his son in 2006. On average, donated kidneys efficiently last 10-12 years. In 2019, Brian began noticing familiar declines in his kidney function prompting tests. In April 2020, Brian was placed on the kidney transplant list at Emory University Hospital. He now better understands what is ahead for him the second time around. Today, as a young husband and father of two sons, Will, 5, and Joshua, 2, Brian’s life has greater purpose than ever before. Brian works as a Lear45 pilot instructor and examiner, and his wife, Amber, teaches pre-school. Brian continues to work as he patiently waits for a match. Based upon the availability and timeline of a donor kidney, Brian could likely be placed on dialysis, which will buy time until a perfect match is found. “We anticipate going through four surgeries throughout this process, along with the transplant surgery itself,” Amber said. At press time, Amber learned that her first round of labs all came back within the parameters of being a potential donor with compatible blood types. Her file is now going before the board at Emory for review, which will take time and further testing. “We are optimistic that I will be approved and round two of evaluations will begin rather quickly,” she said. “We have been blessed by the fact that others have come forward to also see if they are potential matches for Brian. This is huge for us as the more potential matches the better. Of course, there are many hypotheticals of how it could work if both of our sons’ parents were to have simultaneous surgical procedures. There would be many disruptions and inconveniences for sure, but we would welcome that gift and figure it out. Additionally, this COVID-19 pandemic makes what is already hard, much harder for any transplant patient.” “I want to encourage everyone to research and carefully consider being an organ donor at www.emoryhealthcare.org/centers-programs/kidneytransplant-program/living-donor.htm. The wait-list 32
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Amber and Brian Miller with their sons Joshua and Will.
time for a deceased kidney is five years. Most cannot survive as they wait. Until you are in this situation, you cannot fully understand the gift of organ donors,” Amber said. “I want to thank our amazing friends and church community for all of the love and support we have received so far. There is a lot ahead of us, but we know we can get through it with you all by our side.” Everyday Angels would like to rally our community to help this sweet family through this difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been created by their friends at gf.me/u/ymt5zy or you may send donations through Everyday Angels, where 100% of your donation goes directly to the Miller family and is tax deductible.
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com
Can Pelvic Surgery Help You?
BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
Do you have a constant urge to go to the bathroom? Do you sometimes not make it in time? That is what Susan experienced. To make it worse, she would leak throughout the day. Susan also was dealing with urinary tract infections that were not responding to antibiotics. All these symptoms were affecting her quality of life. She knew she could not live like this any longer, so she made an appointment with her OB/GYN. Susan’s doctor told her that she had pelvic organ prolapse. This happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs (the uterus, bladder or rectum) become weak or loose. This allows one or more of the pelvic organs to drop or press into or out of the vagina. Since surgery was the best option to fix the problem, Susan began researching, and discovered that many doctors perform this surgery by cutting through the abdomen. This was not what she wanted, so Susan continued to research and learned that certain doctors have the expertise to perform this surgery vaginally, which would be less intrusive and typically would require less recovery time. She knew she needed an expert in the field. “I was thrilled to pieces that I found a doctor with the knowledge and expertise I was looking for,” Susan said.
Susan needed a total vaginal hysterectomy, and an anterior, posterior and enterocele repair. At 65 years old, Susan knew the longer she waited, the harder the recovery could be. She immediately scheduled the surgery. The pelvic prolapse surgery was a success, and, after only a 24-hour hospital stay, Susan went home to recuperate. She spent the following three weeks at home before returning to work on a limited-activity basis, as she was still healing and dealing with some discomfort. Three months later, Susan was feeling back to normal. All her pre-surgery symptoms were gone, and she was extremely happy that she took the time to do her research. Finding an expert in pelvic prolapse surgery made all the difference to Susan’s quality of life, and she encourages other women to do the same. “If you are experiencing such life-altering symptoms, you don’t have to just accept them and think that it is something you have to live with,” Susan said. “Seek help and find a doctor who is an expert.” Dr. James Haley is a double board-certified OB/ GYN and Urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton and Woodstock. He was a patients’ pick in a survey by Atlanta magazine on top area doctors.
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Monthly Makeover Soldier wins war over daily hair battle. BY TIM TIMMONS
When 22-year-old Allis completed her basic training to be part of the Georgia National Guard, she expected the tough battle ahead with her newly assigned role at Dobbins Air Reserve Base supporting Georgia’s response to COVID-19. What she didn’t expect was the dramatic change she would experience after undergoing a makeover with me and my team at Salon Gloss. While the ongoing frustrations with her hairstyle may seem trivial compared to her work with the National Guard, Allis’s outlook, mood and success, like many women, is influenced by her physical appearance. Her look was distracting from larger priorities in her life.
“Women in the South are taught that beauty is everything, and I caught myself more worried about how my roots looked than focusing on important things, like spending time with my spouse on our anniversary cruise,” Allis said. “I knew I needed an overhaul, so I went to Salon Gloss to see Tim.” I persuaded Allis that it was time for a dramatic change, and after hearing about her military service, I knew she would be an ideal candidate for this month’s makeover. When she came in, her hair was black, orange and red, and the length was 3/4 down her back. Her hair was also very damaged and dry. After a thorough consultation, we decided she had too much hair for her busy life and her position in the military. Allis wanted a low maintenance style and a hue closer to her natural color, so I gave her a chin-length bob that’s easy to pull back when she’s on duty and fashionable enough to look on trend when she’s off duty. Through several coloring processes, I matched Allis’s natural regrowth with a warm medium brown, while giving her low maintenance highlights with a soft copper hue for a pop of color and dimension. “I hadn’t seen my natural hair color in more than 10 years, but Tim was able to work his magic and match my current dye job to that of my natural color,” Allis said. “It was so close that as my hair has grown you can’t see the difference between the new color and my natural roots.” For Allis’s makeup, Salon Gloss makeup artist Aurelia chose an application that emphasized Allis’s beautiful eyes and lips. She chose smokey greens and golds for the eyes and a bold fuchsia lip color to highlight her beautiful smile. For her wardrobe, Allis generally stays within neutral and earth tones, but I realized her clothing selection needed updating. I took Allis to West and Peach at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta to select an outfit that would complement her new look. I wanted to highlight Allis’ colorful personality, so I chose a bright sundress that worked beautifully with her skin tone and hair color. “I typically don’t like bright colors. Most of my outfits are dull and dark,” Allis said. “I had no idea that the right cut and a strategically selected outfit can complement each other. I now wear the outfit often.” The response to Allis’s new cut and color has been overwhelming from family and friends. From her motherin-law to her best friends, everyone has provided supportive comments. "I feel great about my look, and I don’t worry about my hair anymore. I can concentrate on more important things in life, like my husband, my family and my career.”
BEFORE
Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss and Spa Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/ educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and MTV video music awards.
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AFTER
st joseph catholic school
a bright future ahead
Tw ic
to 8th • Pre-K4 classes • Religion • Student-led Mass every week tuition / Financial aid available • Affordable student has a computer or IPad • Each classes per grade / Average class size: 22 • Two • Before and After-care e l l enc
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ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS! TOURS AVAILABLE Call or reserve online stjosephschool.org 81 Lacy Street, Marietta | 770-428-3328
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REJOICE MAIDS
Cleaning for Health! F
or 10 years, Gemma Beylouny and her team at Rejoice Maids have cleaned homes and businesses in Cherokee and Cobb counties, leaving each location spotless when they’re done. Now Gemma has ramped things up a bit, with an additional goal in mind. “We clean for health,” she said. “Before, people wanted their homes cleaned for the appearance, and for the fresh smell. We still do all of that, but now we are also focusing on removing or killing germs and viruses. That’s a big difference.” Rejoice Maids offers residential cleaning — floor to ceiling — by two- or three-person teams on weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedules. Move-in and move-out cleaning also is offered. With the onset of the pandemic and concerns about health and safety, Gemma has introduced new protocols to make sure Rejoice Maids is doing its part in preventing the spread of the virus. • Employees have daily
Daily temperature checks are part of the routine. 36
temperature checks. The numbers are logged into a record book. • Employees use a commercial, hospital-grade disinfectant, and the office is sanitized and disinfected daily. • All high-touch points in each home are cleaned. • Vacuums are disinfected every morning and evening. • Employees wear masks, gloves and shoe covers. And for Gemma, not just any mask will do. Her two sisters are making the masks and shoe covers, so she is confident of the quality. • Employees are trained and re-trained on the latest safety measures. Staff members sign a document for each session attended. • Employees are trained to use a disinfectant machine to properly clean offices, churches, daycare and any area that needs a heavier dose of disinfectant. • A support supervisor makes sure the teams are properly cleaning and implementing the Touch Point Cleaning Method in every home. She checks that employees are wearing protective gear, and she is there to help as needed. • A staff member answers the phone during office hours, Mondays-Fridays. Other ways to communicate include texts, emails and Facebook Messenger. • Gemma posts a weekly Facebook segment sharing cleaning tips, along with short, daily videos offering housekeeping tips and other uplifting, positive thoughts. She is involved in the community silently, giving as needed. In addition to these extra steps, Sponsored Content
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Gemma stays on top of the latest safety measures and processes being developed to create a clean and healthy environment for her clients. She takes online classes and continuously searches for the latest developments.
In The Beginning
Gemma was raised in the Philippines, the youngest of eight children, in a disadvantaged family that didn’t have the resources to finish paying for her schooling. She came to the United States in 1994 without the advantages of a proper education. She married George, who was in the Navy, and they moved to Guam. During two years there, she tried and failed more than five times to get her driver’s license. She admits the examiners would hide when they saw her, annoyed by her tears each time she failed. But she never gave up. “In my head, the driver’s license was the first step toward my dreams. It’s simple for some, but for me, it was a big obstacle that I had to pass,” she said. “When we moved from Guam to Marietta, I was still determined, and began practicing daily with garbage cans and trash bags. Finally, after all those failures, I passed. This was the beginning of my dream.” Gemma admits she’s a goaloriented person who doesn’t give up, and she doesn’t shy away from hard work. She began cleaning houses and, after passing a real estate exam, sold houses as well. In 2002, she enrolled in Kennesaw State University to study business administration. “I went to KSU for five years
with no breaks. I was going spring, summer and fall for five years while raising two children and helping earn an income by cleaning and selling houses. My husband was also in school. There was one year when all of us were students at the same time. It was a very tough time,” she said.
For the Long Haul
This year, Rejoice Maids is 10 years old. Gemma relishes the lessons that she has learned getting to this point, and admits that, at age 48, she is still learning and dreaming. She’s also making sure that Rejoice Maids is prepared for most any eventuality, especially during this uncertain time. “As the owner, I know my business inside and out, with my
eyes closed,” Gemma said. “So now I don’t go to the office; I work from my home office. I go in at lunchtime when no employees are there - just our three-person office staff. But if needed, I can take over any time.” The business has experienced some of the slowdown - mostly clients just putting services on hold - that most companies have during the pandemic. However, Gemma has kept each of her team members employed, while allowing those who are nervous about working a little time off. She is also helping them stay safe in their own homes by equipping them with bottles of bleach to disinfect their homes. “We want everyone to know, we are in this together. We are going to protect you and ourselves,”
Gemma said. “We have families too. We are here to do all that we can to prevent the spread of the virus within our community.”
Gemma hosts a weekly Facebook Live sharing her cleaning tips.
From Left, Eluvia, Jessica and Marie wear masks to protect their clients.
REJOICE MAIDS | Call: 678-905-3476 | Text: 404-242-1513 | Email: service@rejoicemaids.com
www.rejoicemaids.com
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Fall in Love with the Season BY PACITA WILSON
Autumn is a time I associate with family, giving, and cozy nights curled up next to the fireplace, and although September weather doesn’t always feel like fall, still I’m eager to bring out my fall home decorations. As someone who loves the season of giving, I hope I can help give you some inspiration to get started on your fall decorating with a few easy tips. Let’s start with your dining tablescape.
Color
The first step to decorating a tablescape is to pick your color scheme. Remember to think of colors that will invoke the warmth and coziness of the season. Then, choose your tableware. My goal is always to pick a simple, elegant design so I’m able to incorporate my favorite fall colors in with my accessories.
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Texture
When I think of fall decor, I like to focus on texture, while maintaining a simple design. For example, I add items such as wood and greenery − these also make great additions to your centerpiece. Make sure to add height to your table with things such as vases or urns. This will create a timeless look and focal point that draws in the eye. Another great centerpiece idea is adding unique greenery and florals to a dough bowl arrangement.
Final Touches
Finally, when it comes to the finishing touches for your table, don’t forget to add accessories, such as pumpkins, fruit or seasonal greenery.
Pacita Wilson is the owner of Pineapple Park Home. www.pineapplepark.com
Will Political Changes Affect the Economy? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
With all of the storm and stress of the year 2020, you’d be forgiven if you momentarily forgot that we’re due for another national election in November. Many states will be selecting governors, representatives and senators, while the country itself will be voting in the presidential election. Even though these elections happen every four years, they often breed uncertainty or anxiety about the financial markets and other investment matters. Some of our personal political beliefs may be informed by our economic worldview. For that reason, it’s natural that presidential elections are seen as potential turning points for the economy. It’s important to keep in mind that, while the White House has enormous influence on economic policy, ambitious policies frequently find challenges in the legislative and judicial branches. It’s also important to keep in mind that, in the wake of COVID-19, there are other factors that can influence the financial markets.1 Your financial professional helps you craft an investment strategy, one that may run through several presidents and many sessions of Congress. Naturally, you may have
questions about how these policies might affect things in the short term, and these professionals look forward to a chance to discuss them with their clients.
Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered iInvestment adviser. Cambridge 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 a 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. Citation: 1 - NYTimes.com, July 29, 2020
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.
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Rob’s Rescues At Cobb County Animal Services (1060 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta) there is a dog with tag number 623795. She is 9 years old and very small. She is a stray and scared in the shelter. She would be a great dog for anyone who gets her. Also at Cobb County there are more than 50 cats in the shelter. 50! They have cats caged in the hallway. Just because of coronavirus doesn’t mean we can’t adopt animals. So if there are more than 50 cats here, there must be one for you!
Rob and Julie Cummings at a feral cat feeding station.
Frida’s Companion Animals Foundation I interviewed Julie Cummings who is a board member of Frida’s Companion Animals Foundation (FCAF). www.fridasfoundation.com.
Tell us what Frida’s does?
Broadly speaking, FCAF provides food assistance and resources to low income pet owners in Clayton and Cherokee counties. It is a tireless advocate for spaying and neutering. If everyone took care of their pets, there wouldn’t be feral colonies of cats in parking lots. Our goal is to keep pets out of Animal Control (AC). Anytime anyone posts on NextDoor or Lost Pets, etc., about feral cat colonies, FCAF starts a feeding station and goes in and tries to TNR (trap, neuter, return) the whole colony. This is a long and painstaking process, but that’s what we do.
Why is TNR important?
It stops the reproductive cycle of unwanted cats, which results in less cats in shelters and doesn’t overload the resources of rescue organizations.
Where did your current foster kittens come from?
They are from a local grocery store parking lot. We trapped the feral mom. The kittens are going to a rescue when they are ready.
What is a story you love to tell about your work? Rob and dog from Cobb County Animal Services.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. www.robsrescues.com. On Facebook @robsrescues.
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A little while back there were posts on various social media outlets about a cat that was hanging around the Costco parking lot. We went in and set up a feeding station and trapped the cat who turned out to be a geriatric senior. She was a bag of bones with absolutely no teeth. Purr Nation Cat Alliance (purrnation.org) took her into rescue, and she was subsequently adopted by an older couple looking for a senior cat. What a great outcome for a cat that was close to dying on the streets.
How can the community help you?
Spay and neuter your pets. If you are feeding a cat at your house and it is not fixed, get it fixed. The highest intake at AC is kittens of a cat that people are just feeding. The Georgia Animal Project (theanimalproject.org) is a low cost spay and neuter option. There are many resources, including Frida’s. There is no reason to be feeding a cat that isn’t fixed.
Steps to Improve Zoning Processes BY HARRY JOHNSTON
Cherokee County’s rezoning process is as transparent as most, but it always can get better. To improve, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners is working on some changes to the county’s zoning ordinance. One of the changes would eliminate routine postponements of zoning hearings. Often, when a controversial case with a lot of opposition is on the Cherokee County Zoning Board’s agenda, the applicant or developer seeks to postpone the case. Sometimes, there’s a good reason, but sometimes it’s just in hopes the opposition will weaken. The current ordinance allows one postponement at the applicant’s request, if made seven days before the hearing. The proposed change would eliminate at-request postponements. Once advertised, the hearing would go forward unless there’s a true emergency. Another proposed ordinance change would require a second public hearing at a Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting whenever the Planning Commission recommends a different zoning than requested by the applicant. These are situations that tend to give rise to meetings between the applicant and some members of the BOC, with negotiated settlements sometimes reached. But, before we approve more intense zoning than recommended by the Planning Commission, we want to give the public another chance to speak out. The commissioners always have been willing to meet with members of the public involved in a zoning case, whether it’s the developer or those in opposition. But, we plan to adopt a resolution to put that commitment in writing. Only one or two of us can participate in such meetings. The Georgia Zoning Procedures Act requires advertising, time-keeping and other formalities if a quorum of the board meets to discuss a zoning application. The ordinance already requires public participation meetings for most rezonings, as a part of the process. The commissioners usually do not attend, since these meetings are intended as a chance for the developer and the neighbors to work out issues in a nonpolitical atmosphere before the zoning is heard. Those meetings will continue to be required. At this writing, the county planning staff is working to draft the proposed changes to the ordinance. Then we’ll schedule a public hearing, as required for proposed ordinance changes, especially those involving zoning. We’ll hear from interested members of the public, discuss the changes, and determine whether and how to go forward. The hearing likely will be in September. If you’re interested, watch for it on our agenda and please attend. We hope the changes will make our zoning process the most transparent in Georgia. As always, I welcome your thoughts on this or anything else to keep our county great. Email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Block Grant at Work to Help Residents BY CHANTEL ADAMS
Several of Cherokee County’s most influential nonprofits and community agencies will get a boost, thanks to this year’s 2020 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan. The plan includes about $1.2 million in additional funding, all aimed at improving services to Cherokee’s citizens. The MUST Ministries Supportive Housing Unit, Anna Crawford Children’s Center, Goshen Valley Boys Ranch and the city of Canton’s Harmon Park were among this year's recipients. The additional funding allows programs serving vulnerable citizens to thrive, and helps ensure Cherokee continues to appear on “Best Places to Live in Georgia” rankings.
Anna Crawford Children’s Center
Executive Director Amy Economopoulous confirmed that the grant will subsidize personnel expenses related to providing services to Spanish-speaking children in Cherokee County. More than 25% of children served by the center speak Spanish, or have Spanish-speaking parents. Additionally, these funds will support the ongoing therapeutic needs of the child, whether that be individual counseling, group therapy or parent education. Some of the funding will be allocated to the center’s partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The team will conduct forensic medical exams and STD testing on-site for children who have experienced sexual abuse, which comprise about 70% of all child abuse cases reported. The Anna Crawford Children’s Center serves 450 new children in Cherokee County every year. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.
Cherokee County History Center
As the new headquarters of Cherokee County Historical Society, the Cherokee County History Center will offer engaging museum exhibits, enhanced collection storage, and a comprehensive program of cultural events. With over 5,000 square feet of exhibition space, it also will serve as a dynamic education resource that will expand the collaboration with educational institutions at all levels, instilling a deeper appreciation of Cherokee County’s unique and compelling history for the next generation. The history center will be designed by Marietta-based INOX Design, the architectural firm responsible for the design of the award-winning Tellus Museum in Cartersville, Georgia. www.rockbarn.org.
Goshen Valley
The exterior of MUST Ministries’ supportive housing unit is freshened up with a good pressure washing.
MUST Ministries
The grant will be used to renovate a two-bedroom house for a small family that includes a mentally disabled adult. The $40,000 grant will ensure the house meets all ADA regulations, and will repair the roof, replace appliances and carpet, install new ceiling fans, and get paint. MUST Ministries is excited about the prospect of offering stable housing to a family in need. The two-month rehabilitation project should begin this month. www.mustministries.org.
City of Canton’s Harmon Park
Funding will be used to upgrade the playground area, lighting, and bathrooms at Harmon Park. www.cantonga.gov. 42
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The funding awarded to the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch from this most recent Community Development Block Grant will aid in the restoration of the Ranch's James House, aka The Barn, which was built in 1981, originally the only enclosed facility on the Blend family farm. Since the ranch’s opening in 1999, The Barn has been used for a variety of activities, including tutoring, counseling and volunteer gatherings. The Barn officially was renamed the James House in 2012, and its renovation will provide dormitory space for ranch interns. A newly remodeled community room within the space will be used for tutoring and counseling. A walkway between the James House and the ranch’s Wellness Center will complete the renovation. www.goshenvalley.org. Also included in the $1.2 million action plan is about $370,000 for the Pea Ridge Community Center Initiative, which includes remodeling the existing Cherokee Fire & Emergency Services Station 9 into a community center for the Pea Ridge Community. Details on other beneficiaries, including the Boys
and Girls Club of Cherokee County, Habitat for Humanity, and the Bethesda Community Clinic, weren’t
available at press time.
Cherokee County Board of Commissioners
Here are a few highlights from recent meetings. For the full minutes, visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC.
July 21 meeting
• Commissioners heard from Sheriff Frank Reynolds, who bestowed the Legion of Merit to Capt. John New for his service to Cherokee County as he steps down as the commander of the Cherokee SWAT team. New passed the torch to Capt. Mark Anderson.
• Unanimously approved under the consent agenda, including: acceptance of a subgrant agreement on behalf of Juvenile Court in the amount of $172,282 and adopted a budget resolution in the amount of $45,000; acceptance of a subgrant agreement for the DUI/Drug Court in the amount of $100,777; acceptance of a subgrant agreement for the Treatment Accountability Court in the amount of $185,668; acceptance of a subgrant agreement for the Drug Accountability Court in the amount of $356,113; acceptance of a subgrant agreement in the amount of $134,410 for the Veterans Treatment Court; a budget amendment with the use of CARES Act funds and Trauma Grant to the EMS fund in the amount of $150,128 for COVID-19 expenses and trauma equipment; acceptance a CARES Act Subgrant Contract passed through the Atlanta Regional Commission and a budget amendment of $173,369 for Senior Services. • Approved a resolution allowing county employees who are POST-certified with 20 years or more of service and retiring in good standing to keep their service weapon.
Aug. 4 meeting
• Approved the 2020 Official Zoning Map, after a public hearing was held but no one spoke.
• Approved Northside Hospital’s request to annex 3.5 acres into the city of Woodstock for signage and possible expansion of its existing medical office building on Towne Lake Parkway. Annexation would eliminate an existing unincorporated island. • Approved a request to annex 1.75 acres into the city of Woodstock for a Culver’s restaurant on Neese Road at Highway 92. Commissioner Ray Gunnin made the motion to approve with encouragement that the city ensure the driveways of the Culver’s and First Baptist Church Woodstock align properly and that the building meet the minimum fire code.
• Approved a request from the Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office to purchase 20 tasers with holsters, cartridges and battery packs for $31,929.
• Approved purchase of equipment, labor and installation services for an Emergency Responder Radio Communications System through a contract with Diversified Electronics for the public safety complex in the amount of $270,270, and approved an amendment to increase the 800 MHz radio system project budget with the use of excess sales tax revenue. Chairman Harry Johnston said he was not a proponent of the unexpected expense to the project but understood the need. • Approved a request from the Development Authority of Cherokee County to use SPLOST funds to purchase 50.8 acres on Ga. 20 west for the future Canton Corporate Park.
• Approved the ratification of the chairman’s approval to accept CARES Act funding for COVID-19 response. The county accepted $9.2 million, with the Treasury requiring more than $2 million be spent by Sept. 1. The county plans to reimburse itself with hazard pay of more than $1.2 million expended, as well as equipment to strengthen county employees’ ability to telework. County Manager Jerry Cooper said the county is looking to provide the Office of Economic Development with $4.5 million to strengthen the small business grant program.
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Honoring Our History Representatives of the Cherokee County Historical Society (CCHS) recently visited each of the winners of the 2020 Historic Preservation Awards, delivering bronze plaques that they would have received if the annual banquet had not been canceled. “With two religious institutions, two residences and a commercial race track, the 2020 winners truly represent the wide range of unique historic resources we have here in Cherokee County,” Director Stefanie Joyner said. Visit www.rockbarn.org for more information on the historical society.
Dixie Speedway, Woodstock
Dixie Speedway has been a favorite family sporting venue for more than 50 years. Built in 1968, the track was purchased by Mickey and Martha Swims in 1976, and they converted the asphalt track to Georgia red clay. Other than adding seats and a VIP suite to the tower, the Speedway retains its original features. Still operated by the Swims family, Dixie Speedway has been inducted into the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, and draws 150,000 attendees yearly.
Holbrook Campground, Alpharetta
Since 1838, people have made an annual pilgrimage to Holbrook Campground for 10 days of prayer and fellowship. The present gable-type arbor was built in 1890, and is encircled by 53 cabins, with another 19 cabins on an outer half-circle. The cabins still are referred to as “tents,” and have been passed down through generations of Cherokee County families. 44
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Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, Woodstock
In 1866, Mount Olive Church was established on Mill Street in Woodstock, on land donated to a group of freed slaves who had been meeting at a nearby brush arbor. The current brick structure was built in 1954 and is the third church building on the site. Mount Olive has served the spiritual needs of its congregation for more than 150 years, and its present members are leaders in the African American community.
Wheeler-Roberts Home, Ball Ground
The Wheeler-Roberts Home was built in 1902 by local businessman, John Wheeler. In 2018, the house was damaged by fire and Wheelerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s granddaughter, Sylvia Roberts, and her son, Mayor Rick Roberts, renovated the structure. The family worked diligently to restore the wood floors and original features of the historic home. Working with David Bray of Landford Thompson Interiors, the renovation included installing or restoring antique hardware and period lighting fixtures.
Edwards-Wood-Irizarry Home, Ball Ground
This home was built in 1935 by C.M. Edwards and purchased by Dewey and Florence Wood in 1938. The Woods owned the property for more than 45 years, and operated a cattle farm on 160 acres surrounding the house. The property retains some of the original outbuildings, including a washhouse with its brick fireplace. The house recently was renovated to preserve the historic character. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM
Beauty and the Blade BY ANN LITREL
The distant roar of a tractor mower interrupts the morning quiet. I jump up. Setting down my morning coffee, I run, fuzzy slippers still on my feet, down the backyard to my butterfly garden at the edge of the golf course. Rumbling toward me is a tractor mower, toppling large swaths of tall grasses and flowers under its blades. I’ve played golf. I know that the rough along the fairways has to be cut. I stand at the edge of my garden and wave, waiting for the driver to approach. Beside me, an orange fritillary butterfly clings to a goldenrod stem. At my feet a large bumble bee stirs in his flowery bed, a purple passionflower, where he has dozed all night. When the driver gets close, he stops his tractor and idles the engine. He has a friendly face edged with a short, gray beard, head topped with a baseball cap. He smiles. 46
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“Hi,” I say. “I was hoping maybe you could mow around my butterfly garden.” “Yeah, I saw where you had mulched the edges,” he smiles again. “They told me to go around it.” This is not my first conversation with the accommodating folks at the golf course. I garden on borrowed land, as do many homeowners here, in an unspoken agreement to blur the boundary between backyard and golf course with azaleas, loropetalum, and crepe myrtles. But my patch is a little wilder: blueberry bushes framed with drifts of native grasses, waist-high to deter the deer. Bright among the grasses bloom native flowers for butterflies and bees: pink billows of joe-pye weed, sunflowers taller than my head, asters that bloom, come September, in a burst of blue. “Most of those are just weeds, you know, “ he says in a kind way, pointing to the tall, feathery plants beside me. “Oh, no. This is dog fennel. It’s a host plant for six kinds of butterflies.” He nods and we talk more. His name is Terry. He has worked on golf courses most of his life, and he’s been here for 15 years. As we talk, I pluck a large, green katydid from the dog fennel and move it deeper into the garden – just in case Terry changes his mind about the fennel. Before he leaves, I show Terry a few more plants in my garden – milkweed for the monarchs, passionflower for the fritillaries, pussytoes for painted ladies. Terry and I wish each other goodbye, parting as friends, I think. He shifts into gear, and I watch him resume his course, skirting my garden. I stand among the flowers as the mower rumbles away. The grasses rustle around me, swaying in a small breeze. A flash of yellow – a swallowtail, so close I could touch him – alights on a plume of pink joe-pye weed. He drinks avidly, fluttering from one nectar-filled blossom to another. The mewl of a catbird sounds close behind me, well along in her daily forage for food. Her nestlings, hidden somewhere nearby, need hundreds of caterpillars and insects each day until they are ready to launch on their own. As the sound of the mower fades, the quiet hum of myriad bees rises to my ears. A pair of fritillaries dance together mid-air. I’m in the suburbs, standing in this little patch of nature. And it fills me with a drink of its beauty. Learn more with these simple steps to make your yard a Certified Wildlife Habitat. www.nwf.org/Garden-for-Wildlife/Certify.
Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
Helping Moms
Thrive
in Every Season BY KATIE GIBSON
“How are you really doing right now?” This is a question a friend posed on Facebook the other day. For many of us moms, the answer might be “Hanging in there,” or even “Not okay.” Navigating the ever-changing terrain of these unprecedented times with the added weight of our normal responsibilities can leave us exhausted — physically, emotionally and spiritually. The temptation is to grin and bear the season we’re in and hope for better days ahead. However, when I open my Bible, I encounter stories of strong women like Deborah, Esther, Elizabeth and Mary. Each woman faced disheartening circumstances. Each had every reason to become numb and slip into survival mode, and yet, they didn’t. These awe-inspiring women are among the inspirations for the creation of Rooted Moms, a nonprofit I founded in 2015 to help moms thrive in every season of life. Rooted Moms is a movement of moms who want to live and make an impact. We believe that happens as a byproduct of being rooted in Christ, growing in God’s Word, and gathering in community. Even if you haven’t heard the stories of Deborah, Esther, Elizabeth or Mary, you may be familiar with the virtuous woman presented in Proverbs 31 — the one who “is clothed with strength and dignity,” and “laugh[s] at the days to come.” We also read that she is hard-working and wise, while instructing her children with kindness. What mom doesn’t want to be known like this? If we read on, we discover the not-so-secret to her success: she is “a woman who fears the Lord
The Rooted Moms operations team consists of Brenna Kurz, director of donor engagement, Tara McGill, assistant director and groups coordinator, Katie Gibson, founder and executive director, and Tanya Browning, director of finance.
[reverently worshipping, obeying, serving, and trusting him with awefilled respect], she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30, Amplified). You see, Mrs. Proverbs 31 and these other great women were not strong in their own strength. Their lives were rooted in their experience of God; every good virtue flowed from that relationship. So often we focus on being the moms we think our husbands, our children, our parents or God want us to be that we miss this truth: if we focus on one thing — abiding in Christ — we will naturally produce good results. We can have wisdom and confidence to make decisions. We can have strength and endurance to stand in any situation. We can have peace and patience to lovingly guide and teach our children. Do you need a do-over for 2020? You’re not alone. It’s never too late to begin. Visit www.rootedmoms.com to learn more about our reading plan and online community groups starting the week of Sept. 14. We’d love to have you with us! Katie Gibson is a wife, mom, author and writer, as well as the founder and executive director of Rooted Moms Ministries.
About Rooted Moms • The nonprofit, non-denominational Christian ministry began in 2015. • The mission is to help moms thrive in every season of life by being rooted in Christ, growing in God’s Word and gathering in a life-giving community. • The website offers free devotionals, resources, reading plans and online small groups to support this vision. www.rootedmoms.com. • Groups meet online at various times throughout the week, mostly in the evenings. • Community groups consist of 10 or fewer women who meet online to connect, cultivate growth, care and celebration. • Groups are open to women in all stages of life — young adults, engaged, newly married, empty nesters and grandmothers. • Daily encouragement is also available on Facebook and Instagram @rootedmoms. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Around & About
We've done our best to keep the calendar updated, but please be sure to check each website for the most current info.
SEPTEMBER
IN WDSTK www.inwdstk.org
INFluence
On hold until further notice. Typically, meets the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues, or services offered that affect the community. RSVP required.
Small Town Creatives
Quarterly meetings offer a chance to network with other creatives. Paid registration required.
YPOW AM
Young Professionals of Woodstock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays on the Elm Street Green, to maintain social distancing.
THE LANTERN SERIES Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Elm Street Event Green www.elmstreetarts.org
Sept. 19: Landscape of Guitar Sept. 26: Black Market Trust Oct. 17: Sammy Rae & The Friends
FRESH START CHEROKEE @ THE CIRCUIT 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600 www.freshstartcherokee.com www.circuitwoodstock.com/events
Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz will 5 Woodstock begin at 9 a.m. at Dupree Park, 513 Neese Road,
Woodstock. Meet at the concession stand pavilion. The event gives community members a chance to work with park staff to create a snapshot of the variety of wildlife that can be found in local parks. To register, email ParksForPollinators@ woodstockga.gov or visit www.woodstockga.gov and click on the parks and recreation tab.
County Fire & Emergency Services 11 Cherokee is offering several American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED courses. Registration also is open for Nov. 13 and Dec. 11 sessions, at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Fee is $25. www.cherokeecountyfire.org.
Gardening With Kids is a virtual seminar, 12 sponsored by the UGA Master Gardeners Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County, that is designed to engage young minds for a lifelong enjoyment of gardening. Call 770-721-7803 or visit http://cherokeemastergardenersinc. wildapricot.org to register.
The Volunteer Aging Council is hosting its 14 fifth annual scramble golf tournament fundraiser at
Bradshaw Farm Golf Club. Proceeds benefit senior citizens in Cherokee County. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with lunch before the 11 a.m. tee time. For information, contact De Gale at dlgale@cherokeega.com.
Feed My Lambs Golf Classic will take place at 21 the Marietta Country Club. Feed My Lambs operates
free Christian preschools, one of which is in Canton. For more information, visit www.feedmylambsgolf.givesmart.com.
Bulbs and Companion Plants is a virtual s 25 eminar, sponsored by the UGA Master Gardeners
Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County, that is designed to help participants plan for a showy spring display that transitions to summer. To register call 770-721-7803 or visit http://cherokeemastergardenersinc.wildapricot.org.
OCTOBER 1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC)
The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Visit www.1millioncups.com/ Cherokee for more details. The other entrepreneurial networking events are postponed until further notice. 48
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
2-4
Kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by joining Footsteps for the Cure, a local three day/60-mile walk. No fundraising, just fun. Walk for one, two or all three days, or even just a few miles. Walk ends Sunday afternoon at Reformation Brewery. For more information, check out https://foot-steps.wixsite.com/ footstepsforthecure or email footstepsforthecure@gmail.com.
OCTOBER Rooster Golf Classic, hosted by the Fellowship 13 ofTheChristian Athletes, begins with registration at 8
a.m. at the BridgeMill Athletic Club. The event includes a sports memorabilia auction, dinner and awards ceremony after the tournament. www.cherokeefca.org.
Gathering of Friends golf tournament to benefit 17 the American Cancer Society, 7:30 a.m. registration,
9 a.m. shotgun start at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Open to men and women, $150 per person. Register by Oct. 9; call 770-592-9969, Ext. 1.
19 Hospital Cherokee, is set for the Cherokee Town
Goshen Valley Classic, presented by Northside
and Country Club. Proceeds benefit the Goshen Valley Foundation. $500 per golfer, $250 hole sign. Register at https://e.givesmart.com/events/hqp.
23
Sixth annual Homeless Veteran Charity Golf Event will take place at Lake Arrowhead Highlands
Golf Course in Waleska. Sponsored by the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program (CCHVP). 100% of proceeds support CCHVP programs in Cherokee County. To register, contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail.com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at CCHVP2@gmail.com or 770-878-2346.
BENEFITING
10.17.2 20 TOWNE LAKE HILLS GOLF CLUB
Woodstock, GA
$150
7:30 Registration 9:00 Shot Gun Start 3:00 Lunch & Award Ceremony Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place, Car for Hole-In-One, Door Prizes, Raffle Prizes, and Much More!
Per Person Men & Ladies
SIGN UP IN PRO SHOP BY OCTOBER 9 770.592.9969 EXT . 1
NOVEMBER
2
The annual Sheriff Frank Reynolds’ Golf Invitational at Hawks Ridge Golf Club benefits Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, the Children’s Haven and the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. Check www.frankreynoldscharities.com for updates.
7-8
The Etowah Wing and Rock Festival is set for noon-7 p.m. Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday, at Etowah River Park. Featuring wings from more than 20 restaurants. Voted one of the Top 10 food festivals in the Southeast by Festival Rooster. www.wingandrockfest.com.
10
This year’s charity golf tournament at the Golf Club at Bradshaw Farms will benefit the Goshen Valley Foundation. Price per golfer is $100. To register, call 770-592-222 or visit www.bradshawfarmgc.com.
12 Tournament Hubble Foundation Golf
The fifth annual is set for Woodmont Golf Club. The event typically raises $10,000 each year. The foundation gives scholarships to children and spouses of fallen tower technicians, and works to make changes in the telecommunications industry. www.hubble foundation.org.
20
The TEDxDupreePark event will be the first of its kind in Cherokee County. Check www.tedxdupreepark.com for updates. AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
49
Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the July competition, "Flora."
Monochromatic
1st Eddie Myers "Going in Circles" 50
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net for more information.
Color Print
1st Eillene Kirk "Nature's Collage"
2nd Dale Gerosky "Dandy Drop"
3rd Martin Longstaff "Chateau Mimicry" AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
51
Woodstock Area Homes Sold in July List Price Address
449,990 435,000 279,900 525,000 235,000 459,900 459,900 299,900 425,000 250,000 280,000 629,900 410,000 365,131 279,000 240,000 544,030 470,000 230,000 589,900 267,500 280,000 209,900 440,000 329,900 235,000 410,000 325,000 233,900 359,900 759,900 545,000 279,000 549,000 365,000 435,000 250,000 280,000 250,000 210,000 629,900 749,900 449,900 275,000 265,000 550,000 165,000 270,000 229,900 465,000 350,000 273,900 189,900 300,000 320,000 342,000 348,600 347,102 245,000 480,000 475,000 342,900 399,900 299,999 360,000 254,000 415,000 413,000
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512 Taymack Farm Court 111 Three Branches Drive 538 Arnold Mill Road 2306 Isla Run 503 Stanford Place 209 Fox Pointe Court 200 Morning Mist Lane 1060 Inca Lane 235 Highlands Drive 1053 Dunedin Trail 249 Park Avenue 3048 Trickum Road 460 Spring View Drive 191 Archie Way 716 Habersham Place 421 Village View 130 Meadow Mill Road 204 Carrington Estates Court 1602 Andreaes Point 216 Mcaffee Street 207 Highland Village Lane 113 Weatherstone Drive 117 Sunnybrook Lane 308 Shade Tree Circle 529 Wisteria Drive 181 Colemans Bluff Drive 452 Spring View Drive 713 Purslane Way 119 Colemans Bluff Drive 523 Papillion Trace 162 Brighton Boulevard 122 Three Branches Drive 2061 Crestview Way 314 Heritage Overlook 235 Cornerstone Drive 148 Stoney Creek Parkway 143 River Marsh Lane 506 Mullein Trace 135 Driftwood Lane 1017 Daventry Xing 2516 E Cherokee Drive 186 Fowler Street 113 Wayfair Overlook Drive 333 Burdock Trace 427 Norton Crossing 308 Meadow Overlook 14751 Highway 92 527 Drifton Way 1419 Anona Place 1000 Market Street 216 Tyler Drive 430 Citronelle Drive 125 Robinhood Drive 910 Dooney Drive 103 Caracas Drive 752 Parkside Drive 227 Hickory Chase 310 Hickory Court 828 Riverstone Lane 207 Autumn Glen Trail 119 Mountainside Drive 1474 Willow Bend 207 Allison Drive 307 Cacique Court 526 Papillion Trace 603 Beau Lane 311 Melrose Circle 203 Valley View Court
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Subdivision
Estates of Fernwood Creek Three Branches Farmington IV Oakhurst Daventry Village Woodstock Knoll Serenade Mill Creek Crossing Arbor View Kingsgate Park Place Estates Cottages at Trickum Woodview Enclave Riverside Waverly Park Woodstock Village Inwood The Estates at Wiley Bridge Kingsgate Woodstock Downtown Highland Village Weatherstone Sunnybrook Orchards of East Cherokee Walnut Creek Colemans Bluff Woodview Enclave Woodlands Colemans Bluff Woodlands South on Main Three Branches Westridge Olde Heritage Cornerstone Park Stoney Creek River Plantation Woodlands Driftwood Forest Daventry Village home, barn, 7 ac Woodstock Downtown Bradshaw Farm Woodlands Whitfield At Ridgewalk Meadow Brook N/A The Park at Kingsgate Regency at Kingsgate Garden Street Woodlands Kingsgate Sherwood Forest Woodlands Mill Creek Crossing Arbor View Hickory Mill Hickory Mill River Oaks Autumn Glen Mountain Park Overlook Willow Tree Copper Ridge Mill Creek Crossing Woodlands Misty Mountain Wynchase Bradshaw Farms
Beds Full Baths Year Built Sold Price Days on Market 5 6 5 5 3 5 4 5 6 3 3 5 4 4 3 3 4 4 3 4 3 3 3 3 5 3 5 3 3 4 4 5 3 7 3 5 3 3 3 2 3 6 5 3 4 5 3 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 5 4 3 4 4 4 5 4 4 3 4 4 4 5
4 5 3 4 2 3 3 3 4 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 4 2 2 2 3 2 2 4 3 2 2 4 5 2 5 3 5 2 2 2 2 4 5 3 2 2 4 1 2 2 3 2 2 1 2 3 2 2 2 3 4 4 2 3 2 2 2 2 4
2019 2005 1983 2018 1999 2012 2002 1999 2005 1999 1986 2020 2016 2020 1996 2015 2019 2000 2001 2012 2012 1996 1980 2007 2000 1988 2015 2004 1988 2005 2019 2008 1995 2013 2008 2016 1998 2003 1978 1998 1979 2015 2000 2003 2004 2005 1964 2000 2000 2013 2003 1999 1971 2005 2002 1999 2020 2020 1986 2005 2019 1988 1997 2002 2005 1979 2007 1999
465,000 395,000 270,000 515,000 233,000 415,000 459,000 290,000 413,000 227,000 278,000 612,608 410,900 330,720 280,000 245,000 511,900 436,500 230,000 589,000 267,500 280,000 204,900 425,000 329,900 240,000 405,000 325,000 240,000 359,900 753,864 527,000 273,000 549,000 361,000 425,000 265,000 275,000 235,000 212,500 480,000 730,000 449,900 282,000 268,000 540,000 165,000 270,000 229,900 460,000 350,000 261,000 185,000 300,000 320,000 340,000 346,490 344,192 235,000 475,000 464,999 342,900 339,900 278,000 360,000 245,000 399,000 406,000
166 178 192 65 8 215 53 29 69 60 2 217 63 0 6 2 136 76 30 28 4 4 101 6 5 2 32 16 2 0 46 72 5 17 10 41 5 4 53 2 68 190 54 6 15 13 19 4 18 4 45 27 11 3 3 2 2 15 3 8 336 3 2 63 1 64 18 10
Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons
J Christopher’s
Salt Factory Pub
Century House Tavern
J Miller’s Smokehouse
Semper Fi Bar and Grille
American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 www.canyonsfresh.com Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 www.centuryhousetavern.com
Copper Coin Coffee
Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com
BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 www.jmillerssmokehouse.com
American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com
Mad Life Studios
Freight Kitchen & Tap
Partners II Pizza
Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 www.freightkitchen.com
Gyro Aegean Grill
Greek/Mediterranean 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-485-5236 https://gyroageangrill.com/
Habanero’s Taqueria
Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 www.habanerostaqueria.com
Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 www.icemartinibar.com
Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 www.ippspastaria.com
Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com
Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 www.partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
Pure Taqueria
Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 www.puretaqueria.com/woodstock
Prime 120
Steakhouse 120 Chambers St. 770-800-8049 www.prime120steakhouse.com
Reel Seafood
Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 www.reel-seafood.com
Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 www.saltfactorypub.com/woodstock American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 www.semperfibarandgrille.com
Tea Leaves & Thyme
English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 www.tealeavesandthyme.com
The Daily Draft Tap Room and Bar American 8594 Main St. 770-783-2799 thedailydraft.net
Truck & Tap
Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 www.truckandtap.com
Vingenzo’s
Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 www.vingenzos.com
Rootstock and Vine
Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
53
Advertisers September 2020
ANIMALS/PETS Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
CREDIT UNION
FINANCIAL SERVICES
45
LGE Community Credit Union Inside front 770-424-0600 www.lgeccu.org
Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
31
DENTAL/ORTHODONTICS
Tidwell Strimban Injury Lawyers 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
39
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES
Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com
5
AUTOMOTIVE Hardline Customs 770-675-8115 www.hardlineind.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
7
41
BEAUTY SALON & SPA A New You Skin & Body Clinic 678-739-0400 www.anewyouclinic.com
3
Dentistry for Woodstock, Dr. Bruce Fink 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com
1
Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 18 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 Canton: 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry 470-523-8090 www.toothtownpd.com
7, 23
MOOD Salon 678-653-8444 www.moodsalonwoodstock.com
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CORE Community School 770-704-9144 www.thecoreschool.org
31
Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz
11
St Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org
35
INWDSTK 41 inwdstk.org/events CLEANING SERVICES Rejoice Maids 36, 37 Call: 678-905-3476, Text: 404-242-1513 www.rejoicemaids.com 54
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
35
Edward Jones Sarah K. Kendall 1 770-720-6245 www.edwardjones.com/sarah-kendall FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com
3
GOLF TOURNAMENTS Gathering of Friends Charity Golf Tournament 49 770-592-9969 ext. 1 Men of Hillside Golf Tournament www.menofhillside.org
45
MUST Ministries Golf Tournament www.mustministries.org
19
HOME AND GARDEN
EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.citadelwealthcare.com
ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
49
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
27
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
9
Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-919-9509 www.daycosystems.com
43
DWF Flooring Cabinets & More Adairsville: 770-773-2681 Jasper: 706-299-5800 www.daltonwholesalefloors.com
13
Elite Landscaping Services 770-881-7750 www.elitelandscaping.biz
3
Foundation Business Enterprises 678-919-1991 www.fbellc.net
1
www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com
19
Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1(675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com
25
Myst Powerwashing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com
19
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
Page Relocation
Cover, 28, 29
770-224-8184 www.PageRelocation.com
23
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
19
NAIL SALON Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662
23
REAL ESTATE& RELATED SERVICES
Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
25
Pineapple Park 678-494-8494 www.pineapplepark.com
21
9
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The www.thetomlinsonteam.com Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com Premier Group, The — Keller Williams 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com
Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com
33
RESTAURANTS
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
HOME DÉCOR
Southern Sky Home Outlet www.southernskyoutlet.com
MOVING SERVICES
33 5
7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant 7 www.7tequilasmexicansrestaurants.com RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Golf Cars of Canton 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com
25
SENIOR LIVING/ SENIOR SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
13
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 nextstepministries.net
35
VEHICLE SALES Back cover
Honda Minibikes 770-617-0244
AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
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AROUND WOODSTOCK | September 2020
Around Woodstock Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500
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CALL US today for a CASH OFFER! Looking for a stress-free way to sell your home? vNo Showings vNo Repairs vAgent Representation Visit tpgcashoffers.com to request your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s value and compare if a traditional sale or cash sale meets your needs.
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