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In Every Issue 4 Around Acworth 10 Celebrations 18 Growing Gardeners 22 Rob’s Rescues 32 Dining Guide 44 Community Calendar 46 Shop Local Map 52 Cobb Photographic Society 54 Directory of Advertisers 56 Senior Events Contributors 12 Tommy Allegood 50 Ryan Bl ythe 34 Jennif er Bonn 16 Cobb S chools 36 V icki Davis 48 Rober to De Jesus 8 Wayne Dennard 48 Greg Fonzeno 42 Julie Fuller 14 Dale Hoeflinger 40 T iffany Hughes 23 S usannah MacKay 22 Rob Macmillan 42 Betsy Manle y 51 Denson Pepper 15 Joseph Prass 20 S usan Schulz 30 Elisabeth S tubbs 18 Rober t Trawick 48 Amanda Yingling On the Cover Features 24 Autumn Athletics Local high school coaches preview their teams as the fall sports season goes into full swing. 36 Honoring Our Elders Pay your respects to valuable members of the family by celebrating Grandparents Day. 40 Tailgating Treats These recipes are perfect parkinglot fare to enjoy while waiting to cheer on your favorite team. Silver Comet Village Residents of the senior living community enjoy one of the grand pianos on the property. Weldon M. entertains Mattie K., Annie D. and Susan V. Common areas are perfect places for friends to catch up. Pages 28 & 29 Cover photos by Red Baryl Portraits 36 September 2022Contents 40 24 2 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
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It also was unsettling to know the planes that hit the twin towers both took off from Logan International Airport in Boston, the very airport my son and I had flown out of when we moved back to Cobb County just six months earlier.
While we’ll never forget that awful day in our history, it’s nice that it’s now recognized for something good — the National Day of Service. I hope you will find a way to show your appreciation to our public servants or a charitable organization or to perform some kind of community service in memory of those who lost their lives on 9/11. We can’t let evil win. This September also boasts another important day of remembrance on Sept. 11 — Grandparents Day. All of my grandparents are gone, but I’ll get to celebrate being Dani’s nana for the first time. Read about Vicki Davis’ memories of her grandparents, as well as her experiences as a grandma, on Pages 36-37. The start of the school year also signals the start of fall sports at the local high schools. Find out what the coaches of the fall teams at Allatoona and North Cobb think about this year in their season previews on Pages 24-27. And, speaking of fall sports, check out all the great tailgating recipes from Tiffany Hughes on Pages 40-41. Happy reading!
Donna Harris is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She’s a veteran journalist with newspaper and magazine experience and is excited to bring her expertise to ALM. Email her at donna@ aroundaboutmagazines.com.
Anyone old enough to remember 2001 knows exactly where he or she was when the news broke about the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well as the bravery of the Flight 93 passengers and crew, who kept their captors from hitting a fourth target. I was at home that morning, and I couldn’t believe what I was seeing on my TV screen. Militants were using commercial airplanes like missiles to destroy important American landmarks and ended up killing 2,977 innocent people who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I was terrified.Somany questions were running through my mind. Should I pick up my son from school early or hope he could be shielded from this tragedy a little longer? Where would the terrorists strike next? There were so many possibilities. Was the president safe? Only one president has been assassinated in my lifetime — but I don’t remember it — and I wanted to keep it that way. As the daughter of a retired firefighter, I was watching the firefighters who were running into buildings that everyone else was running out of, and I wondered how many of them wouldn’t come back out.
Donna Harris from
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Results will be posted Jan. 1 and will be included in Around Acworth. Acworth Caboose — Depot Park on Main Street Portal Pinball — 3335 Cobb Parkway, Suite 800, Acworth (Best Buy shopping center) Classy Clay’s Catering & More — 3415 Old Highway 41 Suite 700, Kennesaw (Across from North Cobb High School) 4 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Upcoming Dedication Join the Save Acworth History Foundation and the city of Acworth on Main Street, across
Around Acworth
Letter From the Editor
Acworth Bookstore, at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 15 for the dedication of a historic marker commemorating Acworth Ice & Coal Ribbon Cuttings Scoops Ice Cream — 4839 N. Main St., Acworth
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Issue 2 America’s Community Magazine 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. www.aroundacworthmagazine.com @around_acworth@aroundacworthmagazine Advertise With Us Get Social With Us! Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.comTowneLaker Kim Dahnke, President 770-778-5314 | kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com Results With Us E Q ← Subscribe to our newsletter! “As a marketing consultant for over 30 years, I have worked with hundreds of advertising companies. Every so often I come across a company that stands out and just GETS IT! The team at Aroundabout Local Media is professional, flexible and easy to work with!” - Derek Ritchie, Express Vets 6 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
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Around Acworth, 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 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are directly mailed to homes and businesses, and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month.
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Around Acworth 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: Around Acworth, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GAThe30189.viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims to the validity of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright 2022. Volume 7,
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3. If a caller claims you’ve won a prize or qualified for a lower credit card interest rate and asks for your personal information, it’s a scam. In these cases, hang up and call the credit card company directly. No one from your actual credit card company will ask you for your card number, Social Security number, date of birth or other personal identifying information.
1. If selling something online, and a potential buyer offers you more than your asking price and wants you to wire him/her the difference, it’s a scam. Never accept more money than you’re asking for and then agree to wire the buyer the difference. This common scam comes in many forms. Claiming to live out of town and needing the victim to take care of some business for him/her, the scammer sends the victim a check. The victim cashes it and wires the difference to the scammer. When the bank discovers the check was fraudulent, the victim is on the hook for the money, and the scammer is long gone.
ACWORTH
Each year, thousands of people fall victim to scams. In most cases, scammers target the most vulnerable in our community — those who are facing financial hardship. They promise easy money and count on the victim giving them the benefit of the doubt because of his or her financialScammersneed.call thousands of people every day. They have a lot of practice at attempting to steal money from unsuspecting consumers. They can be very convincing and will say anything to separate you from your money or personal information. They count on most people not wanting to seem rude by questioning their credentials. They might even tell you to confirm their identity by going to a website they’ve created to prove it. Never be afraid to tell them you want to verify their identity by calling the company directly, and, when you do call, use the phone number on your credit card. Do not use a number the caller gives you; it will be part of the scam.
6. If someone claims a family member has been arrested overseas and wants you to wire him/her money for bail, it’s a scam. Never wire money or purchase gift cards or Green Dot cards to pay an unknown person overseas. Legitimate detention centers don’t operate this way. From Scams
8 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
POLICE DEPARTMENT
BY WAYNE DENNARD
2. When buying or renting a home, do not work with Realtors or property management companies that aren’t local. If the landlord is unable to meet you in person to show you the home or claims the key has been lost or stolen, and you’ll have to make your own, it’s a scam. Scammers attempt to rent or sell vacant homes and will take money and have victims sign fake leases via fax or email. They claim they’re out of town or create some other reason why they can’t be there to show the home or sign paperwork. They prey on people who have credit problems and struggle to get approved for housing.
Our Criminal Investigations Division receives complaints about scam phone calls and wire transfer schemes several times a week and has some simple advice: If it seems too good to be true, it is. Any time you’re in doubt or think you might be a scam victim, call the police department. We’re here to help. Criminals use a number of convincing techniques to talk people out of their money or information. Though the scams and techniques change often, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.
Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.
4. If a caller claims you’ll be arrested if you don’t send him/her money, it’s a scam. The police or IRS never will call and threaten to arrest you. This is a scare tactic. If in doubt, hang up and call the police.
5. Anyone who asks you to buy prepaid gift cards, Green Dot cards or Google Play cards to pay him/her is attempting a scam. No reputable company requires payment with gift cards.
6 Ways to Protect Yourself
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 9
Mitchelle Mwaura
Email to: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com
Celebrations!
Collyns Age 4 on Sept. 2 Happy birthday, Collyns! We love you! Mommy, Daddy and Ella
Emilouise
Aidan Alspaugh Age 6 on Sept. 8 Happy birthday to our little angel!
Happy second birthday, Emilouise. You’re growing into a beautiful little lady! Love, Mama, Daddy, Papa and Nana Luke Happy eighth birthday, little man! You are amazing! Love, Nana, Dad and Brock Blake Dean Happy 18th birthday! We love you! Mom and Dad
Carter Anthony Sept. 15 Happy 13th birthday to our amazing son! Carter Anthony
October deadline is Sept. 10. Please specify Around Acworth.
Marley Reidy Happy seventh birthday! We love you so much! Love, Mom, Dad and Callaway
Turned 16 on Aug. 27 You have happily completed your 15th season of life with joy. Here comes another beautiful season. As you turn 16, Dad, Mom, Wambugu and Wawira wish you a God-blessed birthday. We love you so much!
It’s the wish of all parents to have such a wonderful boy like you. We are so proud of you, Aidan. Exactly six years ago, you came into our lives with so many blessings and happiness. Happy birthday our little love, Mommy and Daddy
Turned 21 on Sept. 2 Happy birthday to our beautiful mom, who looks young enough to be our last born. We thank God for you. We all love you. From Wanjiru, Wambugu, Wawira and Mwaura
Isla Kathryn Happy seventh birthday to my Isla Kathryn, born Sept. 5, 2015. I love you! XOXO, Mom
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Valencia McCowey Happy 16th birthday from the Robinsons. We love you! ‘Manda’ Patrick Sept. 9 Happy Birthday! We love you! Shaun, Amelia and all the fur kids Caroline Kitsch Age 6 on Sept. 17 Happy birthday to our beautiful granddaughter! We love you so, so much! MeMe and Chip Muthoni Mwaura
10 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
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Tommy Allegood was elected to Acworth’s city council in 2000 and has served as mayor since 2002. He is a community builder who is purposed to make it count!
12 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
A Message From the S eptember has arrived in Acworth, and seasonal events are beginning to return. This month is full of weekends ready for making memories, and we look forward to welcoming your family and friends as you share time together in our downtown districts and parks. Last month, the city was thrilled to open the Acworth Caboose on Historic Downtown Main Street with a ribbon cutting. Visitors can stop by daily between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. to enjoy interpretive panels that showcase Acworth’s presence on the Dixie Highway. The caboose is a wonderful addition to Depot Park’s presentation of Acworth history. We’d like to thank Kennesaw State University’s Department of Museums, Archives and Rare Books for its research and efforts in creating the display panels, as well as the Save Acworth History Foundation for its contribution to the outdoor interpretive panel that accompanies the display. For more information on the foundation, please visit www.saveacworthhistory.org. We appreciate our city partners and the great sources of information we have in our community. As for upcoming events, we’re spoiled for choice in Acworth. Pizza, Pints & Pigskins returns to Logan Farm Park Sept. 10. We’re looking forward to a day of delicious food, fall football and a concert by The Return. You won’t want to miss this Beatles tribute band. Two weeks later, Dallas Landing Park will host the Save Acworth History Foundation’s Cars on the Lake, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 24. Spend the day by the lake and enjoy a variety of classic cars at this fun, free event. That evening, the second annual Concert on the Green: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month will return to Logan Farm Park. Filled with great food, time with family and friends and a concert by the 12-piece salsa band Saoko, this event is not to be missed. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the 2022 Taste of Acworth. The Acworth Business Association is proud to present this annual event on Historic Downtown Main Street on Oct. 8. Speaking of fall, Horizon baseball is back! This wonderful league provides an opportunity for children and young adults with developmental and physical disabilities to participate in America’s pastime while developing friendships and having fun. Interested in cheering on the teams? Games are at Horizon Field in the Acworth Sports Complex on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Check out www.acworthparksandrec. org for more information on the Horizon League. As always, for the latest information on any of our events and projects, visit www.acworth.org, sign up for our e-news blasts on our home page, “like” Visit Acworth on Facebook or follow us on Instagram at @visitacworth.MayGodbless you and your families,—Tommy
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UPCOMING EVENTS Join the ABA by www.acworthbusiness.org.visiting Sept. 8 Alive After 5 5:30-7:30 p.m. Main Street Events by 1885 Grill 4975 N. Main St. Sept. 13, 27 Morning Jolt 8-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive Sept. 22 Women’s Networking Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Henry’s Louisiana Grill 4835 N. Main St. Oct. 6 ABA Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud TEXT BOX 03
Don’t Confuse Rank With Leadership
14 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Dale Hoeflinger is a financial adviser with Wells Fargo Advisors and the president of the Acworth Business Association. He grew up in Michigan but is happy to call Acworth home. Acworth, we are flying through the year! Can you believe it’s September already? This year has been amazing for our community, our business owners and the Acworth Business Association. Everyone is back to work, business is growing, productivity is on the rise, and our numbers are strong. I am proud to say that the ABA is the fastest-growing association in the area, and you all are leading the charge. This month, I want to talk about leadership. What does it mean to be a leader? Is a manager a leader? We often confuse rank with leadership, but rank has nothing to do with leadership. I know many people holding the highest positions in their organizations who are not leaders. They have authority. We do what they tell us to do because they have authority over us. However, we would not follow them. I also know many people in the lower ranks of an organization who do not have authority, but they have made the choice to look after the person to the left of them and the choice to look after the person to the right of them, and I would trust them and follow them anywhere.Leadership is the acceptance of the awesome responsibility of creating an environment in which people are encouraged and inspired and can work at their natural best. Read that again. “Wait, I thought that was the manager’s responsibility.” Not necessarily. One responsibility of a manager is to control a group of people in order to accomplish a specific goal in a specific period of time. Leadership, on the other hand, is the ability of an individual to motivate, influence and enable other employees to make a contribution to the success of an organization. Simply put, managers delegate, and leaders strengthen their peers. Hear me when I say this: I am not dissing managers. I simply am saying know your role. Speak the correct business language needed for the occasion. If you are a great manager, then manage, but hire a leader. If you are a great leader, go forth and inspire your team, but do so under the direction of your manager. Go forth and maximize your momentum, Acworth!
BY DALE HOEFLINGER
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscingelit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreetdolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud TEXT BOX 03
Rabbi Joseph Prass is the spiritual leader of Congregation Ner Tamid in Marietta. In addition, he serves as the director of Holocaust education at the Breman Museum in Atlanta.
When I was younger, I had the opportunity to camp and hike in some of our most majestic national parks. In addition to the natural beauty of those impressive spaces, it gave me the chance to pause, to not hear any of the noise we hear in our everyday lives, and to be able just to think.
Today, we rush from one appointment to the next, from one task to another, with little time to reflect on our lives and our conduct. Our various faith traditions encourage us to slow down and look at ourselves. We all are works in progress, and there are opportunities to improve and redirect our own behavior.IntheJewish tradition, there is an especially important time that is about to occur on our annual calendar — the High Holy Days, a 10-day period that begins with Rosh Hashana (the Jewish New Year) and concludes with Yom Kippur (the Day of Repentance). Judaism encourages daily reflection on our conduct and the importance of personally seeking out anyone whom we have wronged or failed, but these actions particularly are essential during this period. Additionally, the High Holy Days are meant to inspire us to connect more deeply with our faith.
A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution. ChattahoocheeTech.edu/98-7-chattahoochee-tech-podcasts Chatt98.7 Tech Podcast It’s all things Chatt Tech Listen Now AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 15
A Time of Introspection and Reflection
BY JOSEPH PRASS
or “Finish your homework before you can go out,” Judaism teaches we must enter the new year having worked at cleaning up our spiritual house. A small but powerful verse in Psalm 69:29, “May they be erased from the Book of Life, and not be inscribed with the righteous,” has been amplified as part of this holiday season as a metaphor for each of us seeking to be inscribed in a divine Book of Life and blessing. For this reason, it is a practice during the High Holy Days to greet others with the phrase, “May you be inscribed for a good year.” In Atlanta, we are surrounded by nature, and there are times when I return to those moments when nature is so awesome that it makes us catch our breath. I hope we can seize these moments and remind ourselves to pause — just for a minute — and look inward to see how we can move forward and be better partners in this ongoing world of creation.
Just as many of us who are parents tell our children, “You are not leaving the table until you help clean the dishes,”
Derrick Tucker from Awtrey Middle School was named Cobb’s Middle School Level Teacher of the Year last month. Photo courtesy of Cobb Schools.
“It was something that I’ve always wanted to do from the time that I was in high school, having that opportunity to be able to make a difference,” Tucker said. “I know that a lot of times, you hear people say, ‘I want to really make a difference,’ but that’s something I’ve seen. I’ve seen what [teachers] can do. That’s one of the reasons why I love being in this profession.”
Motsinger, Cobb’s High School Level Teacher of the Year, praised the relationships she has built at Harrison as one reason she loves her job.
“I love teaching in Cobb and working at Harrison because it’s a big family,” she said. “We support each other. We have incredible collaborative teams, and we have a lot of fun together. It’s a great environment, and I’m so grateful to have spent my career here so far. I’ve learned so much from my mentors and our administration.”
Cobb’s High School Level Teacher of the Year Jordan Motsinger from Harrison Kiel, and their sons, Merritt, 18 months, and Holden, 5. Photo courtesy of Cobb
“I love teaching because it is an opportunity to be able to meet different kids,” he said. “There is just something about being able to talk to students, to see how they can grow, how you can help them and be a part of their life.”
Tucker, the Middle School Level Teacher of the Year, pointed to the students as the reason he returns to the classroom year after year.
SUBMITTED BY COBB SCHOOLS
The social studies teacher’s passion for teaching was as clear as the smile on his face when Ragsdale congratulated him. Teaching is his calling.
“I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to apply for the Cobb County School District to come and work with us,” the 12-year educator said. “Cobb has been great just from the people that I've worked with and the relationships. I feel there is no place like it.”
For three Cobb teachers, their first day back to prepare for the new school year might be their best one yet. Superintendent Chris Ragsdale surprised them with the news that they’d been selected the 2022 Cobb Schools Teachers of the Year (TOTY) for the three school levels. Two of the teachers work at schools in Kennesaw: Derrick Tucker from Awtrey Middle and Jordan Motsinger from Harrison High. The elementary TOTY is Jenifer Mitacek from Argyle Elementary in Smyrna. “This is one of my favorite days of the school year,” Ragsdale said. “I look forward to welcoming our teachers back on the first day and recognizing our outstanding educators who make Cobb Schools the best place to teach, lead and learn.”
Tucker has been living out his dream as a teacher, serving Cobb students since 2015, and he has some advice for future teachers.
16 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Kennesaw Boasts 2 School-Level Teachers of Year
Harrison High School celebrates her win with her husband, Cobb Schools. The competition cheer head coach has taught English at Harrison her entire eight-year teaching career and loves sharing her passion for literature. She hopes her students are inspired by her class in the same way her high school teacher inspired her.
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 17
“I teach because I was raised by an educator who instilled in me at a very young age a love for literature and writing,” she said. “My mom taught me to see how wonderful teenagers can be and how much they have to bring to the table in terms of their creativity and their ideas. So my mom really inspired me to teach, and now I do it because I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
At press time, the school district planned to announce the system winner, who will represent Cobb County in the state competition, in late August.
Motsinger has a new inspiration for the new school year as she carries the title of the high school level TOTY.“I’mvery honored, and I look at it as a responsibility to continue working hard for our students and continuing to help make Cobb the best place to teach, lead and learn,” she said after the announcement.
The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County (MGVOCC) supports the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and strives to improve the quality of life in our community by delivering researchbased horticultural information, educational programs and projects.
18 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
BY ROBERT TRAWICK
Fall Is Coming, But It’s Not Here Just Yet
overgrown flower beds. Groom the plantings to remove dead flowers and unattractive foliage. It is too early to plant hardy trees, shrubs, ground cover and vines in the landscape. Temperatures in the 80s and 90s likely will be common in September, and this still is too stressful for new plantings. Wait at least until the cooler weather of October. The ideal planting season for hardy trees, shrubs and ground cover is November through February.Italsois too soon to plant coolseason bedding plants, although they will begin to show up in area nurseries this month. Even if you have an area where the annual bedding plants were spent and have been removed, it still is too hot to plant most fall bedding plants. Mulch over the area, and wait until the more reliably cooler weather of October to plant there. Now would be a great time to consider testing the soil (https://bit.ly/3QjK7Te).Floweringbulbs,suchas tulips and daffodils, also become available this month, but there is no hurry to plant them. Purchase them now, if you like, Summer plants and flowers soon will be replaced by cool-season bedding plants and other vegetation that needs to be planted in the fall.
Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension. but plant bulbs in the garden from mid-October through early December (https://bit.ly/3BUsSDt).Thechrysanthemumoften is considered the floral symbol of fall, and you will begin seeing them for sale this month as well. When planted in the garden while daytime highs still are in the upper 80s and lower 90s, these flowers will wither rapidly in the heat. Wait for consistently lower temperatures to purchase chrysanthemums. If purchased and planted at the appropriate time, the flowers and the colorful display they provide will last longer in the garden. So, for now, let’s anticipate the soonto-arrive milder weather and enjoy the delights of gardening over the next few months. And remember, it is never too soon to start planning for next year’s flower garden!
Labor Day often is touted as the traditional “end of summer,” and, according to the calendar, autumn officially starts with the fall equinox at 10:29 a.m. on Sept. 22. But our summer season in Georgia extends a little bit longer. Still, the days are getting shorter, and that is beginning to have an effect. We almost can see the end of our long and brutally hot summer. For Georgia gardeners, fall is not a time of winding down things in the garden; instead, it’s a time of revival and renewed effort. We can get back into our gardens and enjoy ourselves, as the debilitating heat loses its grip on the weather.Forthe next two months, we will experience a gradual shift to milder weather. There will be cool spells, followed by hot, summer-like weather, but as we move into late October, cooler weather will begin to dominate the scene. You might notice an increase of vigor in your warm-season bedding plants in September. Why? Shorter days mean fewer hours of intense heat. Even though the daytime highs might stay about the same, plants begin to experience less stress. This encourages a “second wind” for flowering annuals (https://bit. ly/3QgMS7M) that might last well into October.Withthis being the case, consider cutting back some of your summer bedding plants and flowers that have grown tall and leggy over the long growing season. This is done in late August or early September at the latest, and it generally involves cutting back plants about one-third to one-half their height. While you’re at it, it might be a good idea to impose some order on those
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Zimbili Luhlwayo (Swinky) is one of the 22 children in the performance group. She is 16 years old and is in the 11th grade. She lives in Mkholombe with her mom, aunt, siblings and cousins. She loves to play volleyball and would love to be a dermatologist one day. “My favorite thing about being in H2A is how they communicate with each other and being involved in the dramas, because it shows what happens in real life,” Zimbili said. “One of the things that makes it hard to have hope is being surrounded by negative people who influence me to have negative thoughts.”
• My Brother’s Table. This carpentry training program for young men has a holistic approach. They learn a trade and are mentored in life and job skills and everyday responsibilities. They also perform outreach in the community, providing tables for families. With the food instability crisis, they provide garden tools needed to grow food.
BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ The Most InvestmentImportantintheWorld
The mission at Hope2Africa (H2A) is to pour the love of God into desperately impoverished youths in South Africa, to equip them to share the good news of the Gospel, and to raise up a generation of godly leaders.
YOUTH:
• Art Performance Youth Team. Every year, 22 children are chosen to be mentored, attend Bible studies, as well as plan and execute performances, three-day camps and more. These children learn the power of like-minded fellowship and gain the strength to stay on the right track.
• Compassion. With prices skyrocketing, the extreme poverty these youth experience is getting worse. H2A meets the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter by providing weekly meals and quarterly groceries for families, as well as clothes and shoes for each youth member and school uniforms (when needed).
Hope2Africa Vice President Karen Dingess, left, and President Becky Harris visit families in the Mkholombe squatter camp.
More than 350 youth members, from the Zulu and
“Our focus is to go deep instead of wide. Our desire is for the children to know and understand: We see you. We love you. You matter,” said Becky Harris, H2A president and founder. “Being seen and having someone believe in you can do wonders for your life. God is transforming lives through ourOnministry.”theU.S. side, Harris leads H2A in Cherokee County alongside her best friend, Vice President Karen Dingess. Together, they serve in the south coast area of KwazuluNatal, South Africa. Since they launched the ministry in 2007, they have taken 49 U.S. teams on mission trips there.
HELPING HANDS rates. On top of this tragedy, the youth reached by H2A live in extreme poverty, and many are orphaned and regularly experience food insecurity. When H2A began, the ministry trained South African youth to share the Gospel with their community through the arts, dramatic performances and singing. Over the last 15 years, the ministry has expanded, first by raising up indigenous leaders. There are nine young men and women on H2A staff, and two are seminary graduates. H2A invests in South African communities in the following ways:
• Leadership development. An ongoing endeavor addressed through personally modeled mentorship and regular community service projects. Presently, Bible studies are offered in high schools.
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According to the World Population Review, South Africa is listed among the top 10 countries with the highest HIV
2. Sponsor a youth. Let an H2A youth know for sure that he or she is seen and loved by God through you.
Xhosa tribes, and close to 60,000 people have been reached with the Gospel. If you would like to be a part of H2A, there are three ways to get involved and stay connected:
1. Join the weekly prayer team. Text the word “Prayer” to 833-413-0480 to receive a Sunday morning prayer request and update.
3. Explore trip opportunities. Learn more about 12-day mission trips by contacting Karen at 770-715-3467, or emailing karen@ hope2africa.com.Visithttps://hope2africa.com for more information. 2022 Hope2Africa youth art performance team. Staff members visit the homes of Hope2Africa families to share the love of Christ and pray.
Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.
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22 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
Rob’s Rescues
I got my first dog, a husky-German shepherd mix, about 12 years ago. I got Mia, a pit bull, six years ago. She turned me from a dog person to a dog mom. I got two more pit bulls after that. Autumn, from Cobb County Animal Services, was one of them who set me on the road to fostering. I realized there were so many dogs that needed help socializing and learning how to live in a home, to set them up for a successful adoption. My first fosters were two puppies that got adopted.
I interviewed Julie Reynolds, left, founder of Amazing Mutts and Wiggle Butts (AMWB), a foster-based dog rescue in Acworth. www.amazingmuttsandwigglebutts.org.
The dogs we take in have their own stories, which often are pretty heartbreaking. I am a teacher by profession, and exploring stories appeals to my training and personality. We take in cats, too, from time to time. The first cat that came to AMWB was a kitten with quite a story. One day, at work, I heard meowing all day. By the end of the day, it was getting progressively weaker. I spent a long time trampling around in the bushes trying to find the source, and finally came across a little kitten that had chewed its way out of a black plastic bag. It was presumably dumped, and became my first cat resident of AMWB.
We are a small rescue. We have about 20 dogs. We emphasize quality over quantity and bring dogs in that need it the most. We focus on seniors and scared dogs that really need time and effort. Every dog has a story, and we try to get to know the ones that come through our door.
We need fosters. Also, please share our dogs and our mission, which is to really take the time to match a potential adopter with the right dog. These foster kittens are available from Floyd Felines (www.floydfelines.org). The kittens are being fostered by Michelle Brown in Canton. From left: Marvel (female), the beautiful queen; Wanda (female), sweet and cuddly; Thanos (male), small and mighty; Panther (male), fearless; and Kate (female), aka Lady Hawkeye, the first to try everything. I asked Michelle why she likes to foster and why people should think about doing that. She said: “There are so many abandoned cats and dogs. First, it’s important to spay and neuter to help control the animal population and not have more unwanted pets. Once the pets arrive, it’s important to love and care for them. I love cats, and this group of five reminds me of my current two adult cats when they were kittens. I was saddened by their story of being left in a laundry basket. No animal should ever be abandoned or neglected. I have the resources and love to help them, and really that’s all that is needed! They have brightened my days and will make excellent family pets. And, of course, they’ll be spayed and neutered so this cycle won’t continue.”
Tell us about AMWB.
How can the community help?
More than a hundred dogs so far. Have you always loved dogs?
I was working at a rescue and looking to move to another that had a slightly different philosophy. There was a dog in a shelter in Chattooga County named Arnold, who caught my eye, and I felt such a connection to him. My husband said, ‘Go get him.’ I picked him up as an adoption. That rescue made me so happy. I felt it was a calling to start my own. He was the one that started it all in August 2021. How many dogs have you helped so far?
How did you start the rescue?
We post our available animals on our Facebook page, as well as on Adopt-A-Pet and PetFinder. We also do adoption events at Hollywood Feed in Woodstock and Petco in Acworth.
Where can people find AMWB rescues?
What story do you love to tell?
of Service3 Ways to Celebrate National Day Helping families plan for the future and protect their loved ones. Estate Planning ~ Probate Elder Law ~ Small Business Contact Erika 678-383-7857TodaySERVINGinfo@orcuttlawoffices.com1690StoneVillageLaneSuite322,KennesawNORTHWESTGEORGIAErika K. Orcutt, Esq. AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 23
2. Next Step Ministries seeks to enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Become an ongoing volunteer (https://bit.ly/3BBjaFO), or sign up to volunteer Oct. 1 at the Run, Walk or Roll 5K (https://bit.ly/3d0KZxh).3.
Did you know that Sept. 11 — Patriots Day — also is a National Day of Service? This event is organized by September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, a nonprofit organization with the mission to “transform the annual day of remembrance … into a worldwide day of unity and doing good.”
I still remember where I was when I got the news of what was happening Sept. 11, 2001, in New York City; I remember the room where I stood and watched the horrific acts on television. I was a lot younger then, but I knew what I was seeing would change our nation forever. It’s hard to believe that it was more than 20 years ago, but I am happy to say that, while great tragedy took place that day, much good has come of it. Let me explain.
Each year, JustServe is proud to help promote this day and give communities a way to build understanding and unity through service. Here are a few opportunities close to home:
Show love to seniors. Honor National Day of Service as well as Grandparents Day, which also falls on Sept. 11 this year. Sign up to volunteer at an assisted living center (https://bit.ly/3JnGOYc) or a hospice program (https://bit.ly/3d1ExGf) near you. Be sure to check out these great projects and more on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe North Georgia public Facebook group. You truly can make an impact with simple acts of service! Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprofit, or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve! BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY
Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.
1. Georgia Adopt-A-Stream/Rivers Alive. Help maintain a clean water supply for our community and state by joining a river cleanup this fall, including the weekend of the National Day of Service (https://bit.ly/3bnNgBY).
The Warriors have one of the toughest schedules in the state. They opened with a scrimmage against defending state champion Collins Hill on Aug. 12. Nonregion games with Westlake, Milton, Buford, Marietta and Northside Warner Robins will prepare the Warriors for their Region 5 Class 7A contests.
NORTH A Preview for
Football
Head Coach Shane Queen The 2022 North Cobb football team was excited to get the season started. Since a heartbreaking loss to Roswell in the playoffs, the senior class has provided great leadership and has had a great offseason in the classroom and weight room and on the practice field. The Warriors boasted a 3.2 GPA at the end of the season. Coming off back-to-back 10-2 seasons and two straight region championships, the coaches and 13-player leadership council worked on “the little things” during the offseason and stressed accountability. The offseason and summer workouts had great attendance and have resulted in strength improvement and development. The senior class will be the strength of the Warrior team. The offense returns six starters, and on the defensive side, six starters return as well. The offense is led by all-state quarterback Malachi Singleton, who had 51 touchdowns his junior year, with 26 coming through the air. Malachi is committed to The University of Arkansas. Ben Hall returns at running back and is committed to The University of Michigan. David Mbadinga will split time in the backfield. The offensive line is led by three-year starters Blake Ellsworth, Marselle Felton and Robert Grigsby, who is committed to North Carolina. Zach Addison and Dominique Moody also will start on the line. The wide receiver group is new but very talented. The only returning starter is David Eziomume. Elijah Lee, Xavier Jackson, Branch Bennett and T.J. Smith give Singleton many targets.Thedefensive line has Dylan Mann, Brian Graham, Josh Keyes, Ethan Jones, Dominique Moody and Orlando Wilson competing for playing time. The linebacker corps is led by returning starters Kam Owens, Andrew Trelles and Ben Trelles. Taizon Perkins will be a valuable part of the linebacker group. The defensive backfield returns
We have three middles who started last year for significant stretches and are ready for breakout years. Senior three starters: Quentin Ajiero — a Duke commit — Caleb Jenkins and Jordan Lonas. Cayden Trotter and Phillip Gladney will push those guys for playing time. Senior kicker Javier Morales returns to the special teams.
Volleyball Head Coach Stephen Sansing
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North Cobb volleyball had a great 2021 season, compiling a 30-14 record while maintaining a Top 5 ranking in the state all season. However, after advancing to the Sweet 16, we had the toughest second-round matchup in the state with No. 2 Alpharetta. We lost a five-set thriller, but it gave us valuable experience for this upcoming season. 2022 should be another strong season, with an even longer run in the state playoffs.North Cobb returns 13 varsity players, including 10 players with significant starting experience from a year ago. The team is led in hitting by senior Jaidyn Garcia. Garcia was an all-region and first-team all-state selection last season, as she was one of the best right-side hitters in the state. Our returning outside hitters are junior Nikol Antova and sophomore Sara Boyle, both providing significant power from the outside. We have four-year varsity starters in seniors Laila Hixon (setter), Elena Brown (defensive specialist/libero) and Ryanne Fazio (right side). Hixon recorded her 1,000th assist midway through last season, and we will be leaning on her heavily again this year. Brown has been a primary passer for us since she was a freshman, and Fazio has been a starter at right side since her freshman season as well. All three will be counted on as leaders of our team.
Senior Kevin Pumillo is the loan returner from last year’s Top 7. Pumillo is joined this year by junior Sebastian Barr and two impressive freshmen, Peyton Lewis and Tobi Omoteso. Though it’s a rebuilding year, the boys have high hopes for a state-qualifying season.
After a great inaugural season in 2021, the North Cobb flag football team is looking to continue to grow and succeed in the 2022 season.
Head Coach Mike Turchan In the previous two seasons, the Warriors have been a young and gritty bunch, all while playing in a very demanding region. With experience now on their side, the team’s 2022 campaign is an optimistic one, with several key returning starters.
Senior Carson Walker is the other top returning defensive specialist and will play with newcomers sophomore Itoro Okpok and freshman Hannah Nicholson. These passers will make our defense even deeper and better than last season. We also have three junior hitters in right side Imani Mensah and outsides Hannah Lumpkin and Alex James, all of whom have demonstrated they are ready for the spotlight.
FansSoftball
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On the girls’ side, we return four out of our Top 7, plus our No. 8. Led by senior Alexis Christian, junior Isabel Baxter and sophomore Sepideh Ghasemi, the ladies are coming back strong. Christian is coming off a track season where she ran 2:20 in the 800 meters. Other returning talents include Lacy Kluck, Schylar Puhlman and Ndiya Onuoha. We’re very excited to see what these girls accomplish this fall. Jasmin Edwards, junior Titomi Adeyinka and sophomore Carys Sanabria bring talent to the court and are blocking machines. Sophomore Oliva Boyle will be counted on this year as both a setter and right-side hitter. She started the first half of last season before sustaining an ankle injury, but she is back now and better than ever. Our third setter, junior Anabell Gordon, has impressed this summer and has helped us win some big games the last few weeks. We have several returning and new varsity players who are going to make an impact on the team this year.
Flag Football Head Coach Bailey Arnaud
Mackenzie Mathews is a two-time second-team allregion selection who is poised to finish her North Cobb softball career on a high note. Returning juniors include Aubrey King, Samantha Mathews, Lauren Byrd and Soleil Smith, all of whom have been mainstays since their freshman year. Returning sophomores Rileigh Queen, Kate Self and Audrey Ward are extremely versatile in the field and at the plate. As for the freshman class, which can be best described as a blue-collared group, it is bringing a new type of competitiveness to the team. A great mix of talent, offensively and defensively, is providing excitement as the Warriors look for continued growth and success this season.
The Warriors will enter a new area with Pope, Kell, Wheeler, North Paulding, Lassiter, Walton, Kennesaw Mountain, Harrison and Allatoona. The team will be bringing back key players Rileigh Queen, Aubrey King and Gabby Morales and looks forward to adding new athletes from other sports, such as softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer and lacrosse. Tryouts will begin the week of Sept. 19, and the season will open with a doubleheader against St. Anne-Pacelli and South Cobb, starting at 6 p.m. Oct. 10 at North Cobb High School.
NORTH COBB for Warriors
Cross-Country Head Coach John Huff Coach John Huff and the North Cobb cross-country Warriors are excited to be in a new region this fall. Neither squad qualified for state last year, but we are a determined, hardworking group with big expectations for the 2022 season.
The boys were beat up pretty badly by graduation.
As the 2022-23 school year started, the Allatoona Bucs competition cheer team already had had a full summer. The team is one of the most talented to come through Allatoona. Many members participate on local all-star teams and in high-level tumbling that helps them improve on the mat.
Competition
As a head coach, I am so proud of how much our team has grown, both as athletes and as women, in such a short time. The members continue to push each other and celebrate each other’s successes. For me, that’s what it is all about!”
Cheer Head Coach Rachel Connell North Cobb is elated to announce the return of Warrior competition cheerleading this fall after a few years in transition. This past year, we have worked on learning fundamentals and building a solid foundation for future years. Our goal this year is to continue building our cheer program, which includes bringing back our junior competition squad as well. We are excited to compete in four local competitions in October and hope to attend the region tournament at Walton High School in early November. We have a young varsity competition team, with only two seniors out of our 14 competition cheerleaders. Although young, the squad has a lot of dedication and a solid work ethic. There is so much leadership that our team members continue to get stronger and more determined each time they are together. And we even have our very own World and Summit champions! Senior Avery Rush, who won with her Worlds team in the spring, is a silent leader who excels in sharing jump techniques with her peers and adds some experience with more than a decade on the mat. Junior Raegan Lewis, who won with her team at The Summit competition in the spring, is a strong leader in her stunting abilities. These two cheerleaders have years of experience and have brought a lot of knowledge, along with other unmistakable talents and silliness, to their squad. We have a few juniors who are working hard to bring honor and glory back to NCHS cheerleading. Varsity football sideline cheer captain Caylin Dyal has a big heart and beautiful tumbling. She and Kayla Pierre-Paul motivate their teammates by keeping everyone’s eyes on the prize. Rose Sorrell is a leader on and off the floor, encouraging those new to competition cheerleading and helping to bridge the gap with patience and helpfulness. Sophomores Milani Thomason and Jariyanah Johnson continue to work on their technique as fliers while amazing their teammates with their bravery and trust. With so much talent among all our young athletes, watch out for sophomores Mackenzie Patterson, Kayla Allen, Olivia Vigil and Allie Dale to really show out this season. The team is working to build proper skill and technique in addition to learning a challenging routine.
Along with senior Brooklyn Bolden, junior Tsvetlina Lukanova and freshman Brianna Cunningham, the Warriors are ready to take the mat this fall at 11 a.m. Sept. 17 at the Warrior Showcase. We hope to see you at NCHS to cheer on our Warriors before their first competition on Oct. 8!
Our junior captains, Kristen Hur and Reece Kromer, are a great complement to our senior captains. Both are high-level athletes who are dedicated to the program and to rallying their teammates through encouragement and
ALLATOONA A Preview for Buccaneers
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Football Head Coach Gary Varner
As members of the powerhouse senior class, captains Katie Hendrick and Madie Whitehead are the leaders. Both have participated in the Allatoona cheer program all four years of high school, being crucial members in sideline cheer and competition cheer. Hendrick brings a solid foundation to the team and is the epitome of a hardworking Buc. Whitehead leads the team with knowledge of stunting and tumbling, making her an awesome resource for the younger girls. As a duo, these girls encourage the younger classes and help with the team culture. The remaining seniors — Chloe Bryant, Lucy Makar, Alana Smallwood and Kaylan Brown — are vital assets and bring a high level of competition.
The 2022 Allatoona Buccaneers move into a new region and look to keep alive their 12-year streak of advancing to the playoffs. The team, once again, will depend on the defense. Led by Air Force commit Vinnie Canosa (linebacker), Devonte Foster (linebacker), Khalil Debrick (safety), Mekhi Buchanan (defensive end) and Ezra Odinjor (defensive end), the Buccaneers have all the pieces to keep opposing offenses at bay. This year’s offense will count on its running game again. Conner Brennan (center), Tyler McGuire (quarterback), Brody Moore (wide receiver), Aiden Vandegriff (wide receiver), Jayden Ponder (running back) and A.J. Fitts (wide receiver/ cornerback) look to be the key pieces to getting the Bucs to the postseason. Head coach Gary Varner is excited about the challenges of the new region and looks forward to what this team can accomplish.
CheerCompetition Head Coach Anette Gratzer
Head Coach Jordan Davis
The Allatoona flag football team finished 7-5 in the 2021 season, securing second place in the area and advancement to the first round of the playoffs. Key players to watch during this season are seniors Haley Coyle (wide receiver, safety), Sam Beck (wide receiver, rush) and Ansley Ingle (rush) and juniors Maci Strickland (quarterback), Kiera Daniels (wide receiver, cornerback), Nora Watson (linebacker, wide receiver/quarterback) and Hazel Shultz (linebacker). Third-year coach Jordan Davis is expecting the team’s strengths to be its experience and senior leadership.
Volleyball Head Coach Joseph Soley
The Buccaneers finished 8-10 and placed fifth in the region during the 2021 season. Key players to watch this year include seniors Haley Coyle (third base, shortstop), Sam Beck (outfield, catcher) and Ansley Ingle (outfield); juniors Maci Strickland (shortstop, third base) and Kiera Daniels (catcher, outfield); and freshmen Aubrey Moore (pitcher, infield) and Alyssa Ramsey (outfield). Third-year head coach Brad Strickland believes the senior leadership and experience will be his team’s strengths this season. positivity. Other rock-star juniors are Gianna Bryan, Shelby Baxley, Elizabeth Orton and Stephanie Castro. And the talented underclassmen to watch are sophomores Kincayd Besse, Reese Brown, Lily Maddox, Hannah Thomas and Whitney Whitehead and freshmen Lacey Ellerbee and Gabby Roach. Our experience this year rivals what we’ve had in the past, and we are ready for the tough challenge of region 6A. Our eyes are set on being region champions and leaving it all on the mat for the seniors who have dedicated four tough years to the team. After working hard all summer and putting together a routine unlike anything Allatoona has ever done before, we are counting down to our opening competition at Walton in September.
Buccaneers Fans Flag Football
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Cross-Country Head Coach Patrick Parsons
ALLATOONA
Led by 10th-year head coach Joseph Soley, the Buccaneers volleyball team is depending on its senior leadership and experience to help guide it to another winning season. Key players are seniors Gracie Pynes (libero), Jackie Weller (outside hitter), Kaili Bell (setter) and Claire Felch (defensive specialist); juniors Addison McLarty (outside hitter), Logan Kalinowski (right side/defensive specialist) and Jasmine Barnes (right side); sophomores Laney Daniell (middle hitter/right side) and Alaina Wright (middle hitter/middle blocker); and freshman Lyla Kate LaMonica (setter). The team finished 28-14 in 2021 and fourth in the region.
Boys: The Allatoona team is looking to improve on its 2021 season, which saw it place sixth in the county, fourth in the region and 26th at state. Coach Patrick Parsons, in his ninth season, believes the core group of runners’ veteran leader Grey Coker will be the strength of the team this year. The senior stepped into big shoes as a freshman to experience what it was like to compete at the varsity level early on, and that experience has paid off in how the runner’s training has changed over the past year. Other key runners this season are junior Grayson Smith and sophomores Jackson Alef, Will Magee and Walter Vick.
Girls: The Allatoona girls’ team had a solid season in 2021, finishing fifth in the county, second in the region and seventh at state. This group has been together since eighth grade, running in our Junior Bucs program. They have had success in the past and know what it takes to be successful. They also understand that improvement is not always linear. They have matured and grown a lot over the past year. They also have great incoming freshmen like Paige Schumaker and Maddie Diller, who will be great additions as they get used to the 5K races. Key runners this season are seniors Kelsey Grass, Abby Curtin, Carolina Hubbs, Cecilia Hensel, Anna Magee and Alyssa McFarlan and sophomore Emily Hohl.
Softball Head Coach Brad Strickland
A private entrance connects the sprawling 7-acre complex to the Silver Comet Trail, a perk many residents enjoy. It’s not unusual to see them riding bikes, scooters or walking on the trail; most days, residents use the trail to enjoy nature's beauty. Executive Director Gus Plakiotis said the time spent outdoors - whether on the trail or enjoying the courtyardsgives residents more chances to keep up with friends and make new ones.
“We provide all the services on one campus, which is best for family members, so they don’t have to tour new facilities for just the right new living space for their loved ones when their needs change,” according to Director of Health & Wellness Shirley Nix.
The outdoor fireplace and veranda offer a cozy place to socialize, dine and relax in the fresh air.
S ilver Comet Village, a senior living community in Powder Springs, offers independent living, assisted living and memory support, and is connected to the community in a unique way - one the executive director says isn’t available in any other senior living community.
Common space is important for the growing community, which a few months ago added assisted living and memory support to the 3-yearold independent living community. Residents can be assured of aging in place, with varying levels of service and individualized care plans available as their needs change.
SILVER COMET VILLAGE OFFERS CONNECTION TO OUTDOORS
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The outdoor areas boast lush landscaping and water features, outdoor grilling and dining, raised beds for gardening, bocce ball courts, a dog park, and the private Silver Comet Trail entrance.
“Our sprawling outside areas are all connected, which brings a sense of community to everyone who lives at Silver Comet Village,” Gus said.
Residents play cornhole in the outdoor activity area.
‘Live Your Best Life’
INDEPENDENT LIVING
ASSISTED LIVING
Silver Comet Village Senior Living 4900 Richard D. Sailors Parkway, Powder Springs, GA 30127
menus of tasty dishes
no shortage of activities, with specially designed spaces like a movie theater, game and craft room, fitness center, library and abundant sitting areas for visiting friends and family.
While independence is encouraged, assisted-living residents needing a little extra assistance can benefit from support for day-to-day activities like dressing, grooming, housekeeping, medication management and more. Trained and professional team members are available around the clock, and can coordinate support with home health, hospice, pharmacy and visiting wellness providers.
Support for Every Stage
Silver Comet Village has 64 independent living apartments, 60 in assisted-living and 30 in memory support. Independent and assisted living areas are close enough that residents can continue to visit even though they live in separate buildings. Transitions are made easier by frequent visits to the new community before a move takes place. Each living community has a salon and barbershop, and the same menu offered in the dining room, unless a special diet is needed. Other common benefits include a home care company that can offer support from 15-minute increments to several hours, and on-site rehab services to help residents with physical, occupational and speech Transportationtherapy. is available for shopping excursions and doctor appointments. Gus looks forward to spending quality time with the residents and ventures out for Sunday supper with their “dinner club” twice a month. He also hosts monthly meetings where residents can offer feedback and share ideas or concerns.
SilverCometVillage.com770-222-2775
TESTIMONIALS
Residents seasonal curated by chef Shamika Jones.
“When looking for a place for senior independent living, you will not find one better than Silver Comet Village. The staff is extremely professionaal and patient. They are very available and prompt with responses. They are knowledgeable about all of the options available. There were no hidden surprises or fees. There are a wide variety of daily activities that are all optional. The facilities have lots of common areas for residents to spread out and socialize. The units themselves are very modern and clean. It is like being on vacation all the “Mytime.”father was very anxious about the change in lifestyle. The staff and residents have made him feel very welcome. Everyone is friendly. The management is also willing to listen to concerns in an effort to provide the best living experience they can for their residents. We are very happy we found Silver Comet “SilverVillage.”Comet Village has been an amazing home for my mother. The staff goes over and beyond taking care of the residents. The residents are so friendly and truly care for one another. SCV is more than just a place to live; it’s a building that houses a family.”
MEMORY SUPPORT Residents who are struggling with their cognitive issues, or diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, receive extra care and attention so they can lead an engaging lifestyle in a secure neighborhood. Special features of the memorysupport community are the two internal courtyards, again focusing on quality outdoor time, and a baby grand piano in the stylish dining room.
Silver Comet Village’s goal is for all team members to become like extended family to their residents to ensure they get the care they need in a personalized way, according to Gus. “Just because you’re getting older and need a little help doesn’t mean you can’t do the things you love to do and live your best life,” he said.
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AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 29
Residents enjoy a purposeful lifestyle through many amenities, activities and floor plans. Apartments range from cozy one-bedroom apartments to beautifully appointed two-bedroom, two-bath residences with a den. Each unit has a washer and dryer and a fully functional Diningkitchen.choices include a fine-dining room with an indoor/outdoor fireplace, a bistro to host happy hour, and a private dining room for intimate family events. There’s
Caregivers use a Moments Matte™ program to help residents balance daily routines with spontaneity. An interior entrance offers added security, and spacious studio apartments have sizable closets, roomy bathrooms with accessible showers, and built-in shower benches. A flowing floor plan creates a spacious area while guaranteeing enhanced supervision. Blended multipurpose spaces provide socially engaging gathering places for structured activities and fellowship.
of Flooring 30 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
From
C is for Carrara. A type of natural stone from marble quarries in Carrara, Italy, it is found in varying hues of white and gray. The background of this marble tile is whitish gray, and it has linear, thin and feathery veining patterns.
A is for area rugs. An area rug is simply a carpet that is finished around the edges, often much smaller than the dimensions of a room. Available in a variety of sizes and patterns, an area rug can easily be moved.
G is for Georgia, because most of the carpet in the world is made right here in Georgia. Approximately 75% of all carpet and rugs are made in and around Dalton (https://bit.ly/3QDYj9i). When you purchase carpet, you support our state’s economy.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors & More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta. Kids are back in school, learning their ABCs. Did you know there are ABCs of flooring, too? Read on to learn about some of my favorite floors. Next month, we’ll finish the alphabet with more of my favorite flooring terms.
E is for Exceptional II, a popular carpet, made by DreamWeaver. It is stain-resistant, durable and perfect for clients putting their home on the market (or for rooms that don’t get heavy use).
I is for Inhaus Sono Eclipse, one of my favorite luxury vinyl plank (LVP) brands. It is waterproof, family- and pet-friendly, easy to clean, and stain-, fadeand scratch- resistant. Available in wood and tile looks, what’s not to love?
B is for Berber , a style of carpet that consists of multiple small loops that are not cut, but rather woven together.
Tile
F is for French oak. Literally wood grown in France, French oak floors have a very high tannin content, which reacts better in the aging process, giving the wood a beautiful patina and time-worn look.
J is for Janka, a scale that measures the strength of hardwood materials. This test determines the amount of force it takes to drive a .444-inch steel ball into a solid plank of wood. The Janka rating is helpful in determining how easily a floor will indent. (The Janka hardness test does not measure scratch resistance. All wood floors will scratch, no matter the score on the Janka scale.)
H is for Happy Floors, a go-to line of Europeancrafted porcelain and ceramic tiles and mosaics.
The
D is for distressed. The intentional scratching, scraping and/or gouging of a flooring surface to create an aged look. These processes may involve wire brushing, sculpting and scraping the floor. Doing so results in a floor with a lot of texture and character. Very practical for active homes with kids and pets; it hides scratches and dings.
K is for Karastan. This brand offers top-of-theline products, excellent quality and something for everybody: carpet, hardwoods and LVP. Wood and Carpet, to and Luxury Vinyl Plank ABC s
BY ELISABETH STUBBS
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Downtown Acworth Dining 1885 Grill Southern Coastal 4438 Cherokee St. www.1885grill.com/welcome-acworth770-672-0508 Bert & Boo's Bake Shop Bakery 3900 Old McEver Rd. Facebook:www.bertandboos.com470-582-6717@bertboos Center Street Tavern American/ Traditional 4381 Center www.centerstreettavern.com770-917-0004St. Dogwood Terrace American/ Traditional 4975 N. Main St. www.dogwoodterraceacworth.com770-627-4069 Doro’s Italian Restaurant Italian 3979 S. Main St.,Suite 250 www.dorositalian.com678-903-2607 Fish RestaurantThymeand Bar Seafood 3979 S. Main St., Suite 5657 www.newsite.fishthymerestaurant.com770-974-2323 The Fountain Cocktail Bar and Pub Grub 4843 N. Main St. Facebook:678-403-8898The Fountain - Acworth Fusco's via Roma Italian Trattoria Italian 4815A S. Main St. Facebook:fuscosviaroma.com770-974-1110@fuscosviaroma J.D.’s Bar-B-Que Barbeque 4424 S. Main www.jdsbbq.com770-974-8434St. Henry’s Louisiana Grill Cajun 4835 N. Main St. www.chefhenrys.com770-966-1515 L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine Southern 4417 S. Main www.lmaries.net770-694-1949St. Miss L’s Sandwich Shop Sandwiches 4817 S. Main @Miss-Ls-Sandwich-ShopFacebook:770-966-9709St. Nibbles Grill Grill/Diner-BreakfastBurgers 4628 S. Main www.nibblesgrillacworth.com404-312-7597St. Pizza By Fuscos Pizza 4815B S. Main St. www.pizzabyfuscos.com678-426-7503 Red Top Brewhouse Pub Grub 4637 S. Main www.redtopbrewhouse.com470-893-0425St. Rico’s Mex Mex Grill Mexican 3770 Southside Dr. @Ricos-Mex-Mex-GrillFacebook:770-917-9791 32 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
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Keep Moving Forward No Matter
I’m grateful there have been more discussions about mental health. I’m not qualified to advise someone who needs professional help, but I can offer the following encouragement for staying mentally healthy.
• Discouragement. We all feel discouraged sometimes, but you might be making the situation bigger than it is. Look for your accomplishments and realize you can be and do anything you want. Keep moving forward.
• Setbacks. I consider setbacks a step above discouragement. Setbacks take longer for me to recover. I trained for an
ultramarathon, but the weekend before, I was rushed to the hospital with an irregular heartbeat. The next week, I was told I needed to see a specialist for my tooth. The next day, I twisted my knee. I had to convince myself these were all temporary setbacks, and I would keep moving forward.
• Changes. This has been a time filled with change, and we all are capable of figuring out the next step. Ask for help whenever needed. Many people are hesitant to ask, but it gladly will be given, and someday, you might be the one helpingTakingsomeone.careofourselves and our families is important. I believe in the power of prayer, so pray for good health and keep moving forward.
Jennifer Bonn is a freelance writer in Kennesaw and
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• Feeling lost. The opening line of Kenny Chesney’s song “You Save Me” is “Every now and then, I get a little lost.” Don’t we all get like that sometimes? Find some inspiration, someone you can talk to, and keep moving forward.
What BY JENNIFER BONN
• Interactions. Interacting with people can be rough. You must understand there are many ways of perceiving the same situation, and that doesn’t mean yours is wrong. Deal with all the personalities, find people who make you happy and keep moving forward.
The past few years have been life-changing for many people. There have been the negatives, including losing loved ones and jobs and fighting to stay mentally and physically strong. There also are positives, if you look at the people who have stepped forward to donate food and help where needed. Many of us have re-evaluated our priorities and reflected more about how we want to live.
• Managing the bumps. We would love for life to always flow smoothly, but the truth is we learn more from the bumps. We learn to be resilient and to maintain a good attitude. Have a sense of humor when you experience a small problem and keep moving forward.
Christine McCartney, CPC, ELI-MP Transitional Grief Coach Start your journey with a FREE consultation today! 404-542-1229www.sorrowtostrength.com|Christine@sorrowtostrength.com Sorrow to Strength Grief Coaching Together we will make your light shine again! Unlock a new outlook on life. Live with more peace and joy. Free yourself from your past. Book your boat rental today! (678) BestinBoating.com/Boat-Rentals884-4331 8800 Port Royale Drive, Gainesville, GA 30506 THE LAKE IS STILL open Summer may be over, but the lake is still open. Enjoy fall on the water with fewer crowds, cooler temps, and scenic views. With the largest fleet on Lake Allatoona, there’s a vessel perfect for you and your family to enjoy all the new season has to offer. AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 35
Children benefit greatly by having someone who loves them like their parents and might be more available. Grandparents provide unconditional love, a seasoned perspective on the world and a willingness and ability to spend time with their grandchildren. No longer encumbered with managing careers and busy households, grandparents are free to invest their most valuable asset of time. Using the wisdom they gained from raising their children, grandparents might be grateful for a second chance at parenting in this season of their life and enthusiastically become an entertainment committee for their grandchildren. With the grandchild’s best interest at heart, they are a close friend and confidant with a wealth of knowledge and patience, all rolled up into a secondary parent figure.
BY VICKI DAVIS
Parents benefit from knowing their children are cared for by those who truly love them as their own. Involved grandparents can offer parents a welldeserved respite from their parenting duties, allowing them to focus on themselves and each other. By helping to relieve the stress of parenting, marriages, as well as the children, are strengthened. My parents and my in-laws were very supportive to me as a young mother. I could not have parented our sons as well without their influence, encouragement and hands-on involvement in our lives. For many families, grandparents are much more than secondary parents or doting elderly relatives for their grandchildren. In 2018, 10% of the estimated 70 million grandparents living in the United States resided with a grandchild, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These grandparents are fulfilling parental roles and providing stability when parents are unable to raise their children due to hardships from divorce, illness, addiction, incarceration or death. Often at great personal sacrifice, grandparents provide safety nets for their families. And 38% of all grandparents provide babysitting or child care for their grandchildren (www. retireguide.com). It takes a family! Time spent with my paternal grandparents on their Acworth farm remains among my fondest childhood memories. Grandmother was a lighthearted woman who lived a simple life in her four-room farmhouse. When her grandchildren were with her, she made us feel extra special. She played cards with us at night and did creative things with us outside, like making mud pies and fashioning clothes with leaves and twigs under the shade tree. She sewed quilts for her four granddaughters’ high school graduations, and those are valued heirlooms. On my
Grandparenthood — It’s Definitely GRAND!
“Being a grandparent is indescribable,” they said. “It’s like having your children all over again, only better!” they said. “You love them like your own children, maybe more!” they said.
36 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
I heard all the comments from grandparents and thought they were a little obsessed with their grandchildren — until I became a grandmother. The awestruck feeling I had when I laid eyes on our first grandchild, a baby boy and our only grandson, is hard to put into words. I finally got it. I understood what all those grandparents before me meant when they said, “You just can’t explain it.” Since that day in 2011, we’ve been blessed with five granddaughters. Our grandparent quiver is full of arrows; our hearts are full of unexplainable joy. Yes, grandparenthood is grand!
In his infinite wisdom, my father-inlaw — father of four and grandfather of nine — believed grandparents are a refuge for their grandchildren. I agree, but I also have observed how everyone in the family benefits when grandparents
wedding day 40 years ago, she ironed my clothes in my bedroom, and her presence was a calming force on a very anxietyridden day. I visited her frequently on The Farm, the one place in my life that never changed. She welcomed me with tea cakes and coffee at my special place at the table and listened attentively as I shared my heart with her. When I moved near The Farm, she spent time in my home, loving on her great-grandsons.
My grandfather took us to the swimmin’ hole, popped corn over the fire on a wintry night and fetched watermelon from the field on a hot summer day. A man of few words, he walked me around the forest, helping me gather and identify leaves for my school project. I cherish the white oak splint baskets he crafted for me. For my paternal grandparents, love was an action word.
All four of our sons’ grandparents were very involved in their lives and attended most of their sporting, school and church events, cheering them on and showing interest in their activities. One grandfather taught them about science, computers and electronics, while the other grandfather took them hiking and fishing, teaching them about the outdoors. One grandmother played bingo and always served their favorite foods, while the other grandmother instilled the love of music in them and took them on adventures to the park and Dairy Queen. Each expressed his or her love in unique and thoughtful ways. They, along with my own grandparents, set very high standards for me as a grandmother.
Vicki Davis, an Atlanta native, visited her parents’ hometown of Acworth growing up. Her family moved to the area in 1987. Family is her focus; writing is her passion.
My goal as Grandmama to our six precious grandchildren is to love them unconditionally while supporting our sons and daughters-in-law in their parenting efforts. My husband, aka Granddaddy, and I seek to complement the spiritual, disciplinary and educational values they are instilling in our grandchildren. We miss our first four grandchildren, as they aren’t local, but we make every effort to be a part of their world with FaceTime, letters and occasional visits. Our lives are enriched as we spend time weekly with our twin toddler granddaughters, and we are thankful we are available to help when needed, as we benefit greatly from the double Numerousjoy.studies have shown how grandparents experience better mental and physical health and a higher quality of life when they are involved in their grandchildren’s lives. I concur! With healthy boundaries, the grandparentto-grandchild dynamic enriches the lives of every family member, especially grandparents. Grandchildren are God’s healing balm for the aging soul. Truly every good and perfect gift is from above, and I thank him for the gift of grandparenthood. As we celebrate Grandparents’ Day on Sept. 11, reach out to the grandparents in your family with appreciation and affirmation for the important and impactful role they fulfill. Yes, grandparenthood is grand!
Vicki Davis’ paternal grandparents, Raymond “Blue” and Clem Graves of Acworth, around 1970.
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 37
The Accessibility Services page on the library website highlights the various products and services available to those with physical impairments. https://bit. ly/3bY7GSi.Thelibrary also partners with several agencies to assist patrons with hearing impairments.
•
• “Hello,
• Cobb-Douglas Public Health. The agency has provided hearing screenings at several library events through its detection and intervention program. https://bit. ly/3AfLlZZ.
Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law” by
Whether you’re hoping to learn American Sign Language, interested in learning more about the deaf and hard-ofhearing community or are a member of that community, here’s a list of 10 reads we think will resonate with you, available from the Cobb County Public Library. addition to the titles listed here, a variety of youth nonfiction library books are available to parents interested in explaining deafness and the use of ASL to younger readers. Nonfiction library books that teach ASL, for all ages, also can be found. Ask a library staff member for assistance.
10 Recommended Reads International Week of the Deaf Discover a Natural Approach to a Beautiful Smile. ► Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal ► Biocompatibility Testing Available ► Restorative and Preventative Care ► Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Hamel IAOMT Accredited Dr. Vita IAOMT Member 1781770.426.9994Brookstone Walk NW Acworth, GA 30101 BiologicDentistry.com Visit our website to learn more about holistic dentistry.Connecting Oral Health to Whole Body Wellness 38 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Coming-of-Age/Young
• Georgia Relay. Staff members work with Relay team members to provide telephone service to the hard of hearing. Staff attended training to be prepared to take these calls. https://bit.ly/3zV2XsL.
Youth Fiction • “Song for a Whale” by
are
In
•
• Georgia Mobile Audiology. The van has visited the library twice to provide hearing screenings for children. https://bit. ly/3Ad10Ir.
Deaf Awareness Month Cece Bell (graphic novel) Deafblind Haben Girma Lynne Kelly Universe” by Erin Entrada Kelly Youth Historical Fiction “Feathers” by Jacqueline Woodson “Show Me a Sign” by Ann Clare LeZotte Adult Fiction Biz” by Sara Novic Welcome, Universe” by Whitney Gardner Nonfiction Sign Language Dictionary” by Tara Adams Mystery/Thriller a Sound” by Heather Gudenkauf
September is Deaf Awareness Month, and the week of Sept. 20 is International Week of the Deaf, so we want to highlight some of the services and resources available at the Cobb County Public Library for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
• “Haben: The
• “American
The North Cobb and West Cobb regional libraries each have a Merlin Reader, which has a text-to-speech feature that can be manipulated to help those who are hard of hearing.
• “You’re
• “True
• “Not
Memoir • “El Deafo” by
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 39
• 8
Pimientopecans.
Tasty Tailgating
Roasted Salsa
Did you know the tradition of tailgating began in the 1930s? When the first huge college football stadiums were built in the 1920s, a large portion of fans owned cars and drove to the games.
Easy Recipes Offer Variety
One way to get a lot of variety without a lot of effort is to take dishes that can be served in different ways. Chicken salad is a good example. It can be eaten in a sandwich, served in a wrap of Options HUGHES sliced lengthwise large onion, peeled and quartered garlic cloves, olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste • Lime Preheatjuiceoven to 400 degrees. Drizzle a large baking sheet with olive oil. Lay veggies flat side down. Spread garlic and jalapenos throughout the veggies. Drizzle with oil then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until veggies are wilted-looking. Remove from pan as soon as you take them out of the oven, and place in a blender. Puree until no chunks remain. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and lime juice to taste then puree once more. Taste to see if salt is needed, then store in the refrigerator. This salsa is excellent served hot or cold.
• 6 medium tomatoes, halved and scraped out • 3 jalapenos,
• 1 pound shredded sharp cheddar cheese
with seeds removed • 1
• 1 pound shredded colby jack cheese
• 4-ounce jar diced pimientos
BY TIFFANY
•
The food options for a good tailgate are limited only by your imagination.
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, or more to taste
Cheese 40 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
The problem was, with the influx of tens of thousands of hungry people, local restaurants couldn’t keep up with the demand. So fans began bringing food and a blanket and having a picnic in the parking lot. When wood-sided station wagons were introduced in the 1930s, the rear tailgate made the perfect table on which to enjoy pregame picnics. And the rest is tailgating history.
peeled • Extra-virgin
One quick-snack idea is to thread pieces of hot dogs or bratwursts onto wooden skewers with thawed tater tots. Grill when you’re at the stadium and serve with your favorite hot sauce or other condiment. Yellow mustard mixed with honey and Sriracha is great on these skewers and most anything else you might be eating.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened ½ cup mayonnaise
In a large bowl, combine cheeses and pimientos. Using a hand mixer, add the cream cheese, mayo and salt. Blend until the cheeses are mixed thoroughly. Mixture should be creamy so add more mayo if needed. Taste for salt. Serve chilled. Note: If no additional salt is needed, but the mixture tastes a little bland, add a dash of cayenne pepper. Serving idea: Form into a ball, and roll in chopped roasted
Anything from heavy snacks to fullblown meals can be prepared in the college stadium parking lot — your new outdoor kitchen. If you have a portable grill, or even a camp stove, you can grill burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, peppers, onions, etc. A little preparation at home will save a lot of time when you arrive at the stadium. For instance, if you slice the peppers and onions, make the burgers — and separate patties with waxed paper — and shuck the corn ahead of time, you will have more time to socialize before you get ready to cook.
Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and works for the Booth Western Art Museum. Contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.
• 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
Tailgating
• 2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal 1 egg • 2 tablespoons Montreal Steak Seasoning 1 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
•
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds • 1 tablespoon butter • ¼ cup honey • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (Note: You can substitute salt and pepper with 1 teaspoon of your favorite seasoning.)
Honey Almond Chicken Salad
Mexican: Substitute taco seasoning for Montreal and add 1 teaspoon salt. Barbecue: Omit the egg and Worcestershire and add ¼ cup barbecue sauce. You want the mixture to be moist-looking before forming patties.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mayo and yogurt. When they are well-mixed, add parsley and salt and pepper (or favorite seasoning). Melt the butter in a small frying pan, and cook almonds until golden brown. Pour the entire mixture into the chicken and stir to combine. Spray a measuring cup with butter spray to measure the honey, and add it last. Stir well. Store in the refrigerator. Chopped Craisins or mandarin oranges are great in this, too.
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Hamburgers
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 41
with fresh spinach or even served as a dip for chips or crackers. Speaking of dips, think of the ones that can do double duty. Roasted salsa is a great example. While it is scrumptious with tortilla chips, it makes a fantastic taco sauce, too. If you grill chicken onsite and shred it, add to tortilla shells and top with cheese and roasted salsa, you will be the envy of everyone around you. As for tacos, almost anything you throw on a grill is good in a taco. Pork loin or even pork shoulder is great when cooked and shredded. To add extra texture, put in a pan on the grill after shredding and drizzle with a little oil. Cook until it begins to crisp up. Toss with some salsa, grilled veggies or whatever sounds good to you. These also are good to assemble at home, minus the salsa. Wrap each in foil, then place on the grill when you get to the parking lot. Carry the salsa in a separate container, and add it to the tacos just before serving.Notailgate is complete without dessert. An easy one to throw together is grilled pound cake or angel food cake with fruit. Simply lay slices of your favorite cake on the grill, along with pineapple, peach or apple slices. Smaller fruit, such as berries, can be grilled but will need to be threaded onto a skewer. Cook cake until golden and fruit until it begins to soften. Place the fruit on the cake slices and drizzle with honey or sprinkle with powdered sugar. Another idea is to bring brownie batter in a zip-top bag and cook it on your grill in a cast-iron pan. Serve with whipped cream and/or ice cream. No matter which team you pull for or which game you attend, enjoy the food and the company, even if your friends are wearing the wrong team’s jerseys. Happy cooking!
Combine ingredients by hand, being careful not to overmix. Form into eight equal patties, and lay on waxed paper to separate. You can change versions of the burgers with various seasonings.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Italian: Use Italian dressing instead of Worcestershire and dry Italian seasoning instead of Montreal Steak Seasoning. Also add 1 teaspoon salt.
• ½ cup mayonnaise • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
•
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or diced, your preference)
Manley suggests changing or adding lights to refresh your home.Betsy Manley is a proud University of Georgia alumna, who started House Therapy, which brings home makeovers to Acworth. She documents the process and provides tips and tricks along the way.
Are You Praying Dangerous Prayers?
DANGER! When we see that word, we typically use extreme caution. We become more aware of our surroundings, watch more closely behind the wheel and even leave the area where danger is lurking. When we face dangerous situations, our fight-or-flight response kicks in. We usually feel fearful of what could happen. For the flight response, we go to a safe place where we can catch our breath, feel protected and reassure ourselves of security.
Thebreathe?saying
“Be careful what you pray for” has caused me to pray cautiously in the past. Someone once told me not to pray for patience because God would put me in situations where I’d have to be patient. I wasn’t up for the challenge, so anytime I started to ask God for patience in a situation, I caught myself and prayed something different. Our prayers to God should be dangerous.
Inexpensive Ways to Refresh a Space
The Rev. Julie Fuller is mom to Davis and Dallas and pastor at Acworth Presbyterian Church. Connect with her and the church on Facebook and at https://acworthpresbyterianchurch.org/.
When it comes to our everyday lives, are we praying safe prayers? Are we praying prayers that make us feel secure in who we are and who God is in us? Do our prayers change us? Do our prayers feel dangerous? Prayer is how we commune with the one triune God. Communication in any relationship is key, especially in our relationship with Jesus. Prayer should be more than asking God to bless our food before meals. How is our prayer life? Is prayer the air we
BY JULIE FULLER
Are we ready to take our relationship with Jesus to another level? Are we tired of going through the motions in our journey of faith? If your answer is yes, then I have prayers for you — search me, break me, use me and send me! God, search me. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
God, break me. “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.’” (Luke 9:23-24) God, use me. “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Fall is the perfect time to refresh certain areas of your home, using these easy, cost-effective ideas. Curb Appeal. Take a picture of the entrance to your home on your phone so you’ll have it for easy reference while shopping. Does it look bare or need a wipe down? Is the wreath past its prime? Are the lights dated? How about adding a new door mat? Arrange pumpkins on the steps or porch for fall color, and add flowers like pansies and mums for more color. For covered porches, do the furnishings need new cushions or to be completely replaced? Fall is a great time to buy, with all the summer outdoor furniture sales. Paint. We know this one can make a dramatic difference, but what about painting more than the walls — trim, moldings, ceilings, fireplace, hand railings, furniture? Having a monochromatic room in a deep, rich, moody color is very trendy. Paint the ceiling, trim and walls the same color, with different sheens, for a lovely result. Another trend I love is leaving the walls white and painting the trim a color, what I call “reverse trim.” Lighting. Lighting can elevate a space in no time. Changing hard-wired items like chandeliers is wonderful and recommended, but sometimes, we need something quicker that doesn’t require an electrician. Battery-operated sconces can be used on a wall art gallery or over a window. Flank an entry table with two sconces. A second lighting change is lamps. Nothing’s easier than changing a shade or replacing a lamp all together. Try Rub’n Buff to change a metal finish or spray-paint wood to bring old pieces back to Preparelife.now for the holidays, so you can focus on family and friends, confident that your home looks its best.
42 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
BY BETSY MANLEY
Superior Plumbing Presents 90th Annual North Georgia State Fair Sept. 22-Oct. 2 Jim R Miller Park, Marietta, GA Voted Best Festival and Best Family Amusement 2021WINNER FREE!&KIDS10UNDERADMISSIONEVERYDAY Presented By: Sponsored By: Thursday, September 29 @ 8 PM Corey Smith iday, September 30 @ 8hael Ray Sat, Oct. 1 & Sun, Oct. 2 Bull Riding BullRidersAmericanTour Carriage2022KiaConcertSeries Friday, September 23 @ 8 PMThe Afters Saturday, September 24 @ 8 PM LOCASH Wednesday, September 28 @ 8 PMJosh Turner Youth Attendance Policy- After 6:00 pm each day no person under the age of 17 will be allowed entry without a parent. Clear Bag Policy- Clear Bag may not exceed 12”x6”x12” -storage bag- one-gallon resealable clear plastic freezer bag. Small clutch purse no larger than 4.5”x 6.5” permitted. Gate Entry Policy- No Entry Sun-Thurs 9:00pm, Fri-Sat 10:00pm. ONLINE THRU SEPT. 21 COURTESY OF ADMISSION $7 | 21 RIDE TICKETS $11 10 & UNDER ALWAYS FREE ADMISSION! TICKETS! Discount Fr Mic PM AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 43
The 90th annual North Georgia State Fair will take place 4-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m.-midnight Fridays, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturdays and 12:30-10 p.m. Sundays at Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta.
The largest fair in metro Atlanta will feature live music, free attractions and shows, farm animals, flower shows, blue-ribbon competitions, local entertainment, fair foods and games and rides on the Great James H. Drew Exposition midway. For information on concert performers, admission, ticket prices, discount tickets and special events, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com. For questions, call 770-423-1330 or 770528-8989 after Sept. 6 or email tod.miller@ northgeorgiastatefair.com.
The Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department will host the annual Mother-Son Campout at Proctor Landing Park. The event is open to mothers and their sons, ages 13 and younger. Participants will camp overnight at Lake Allatoona while learning about camping etiquette, campfire building, knot tying and other outdoor activities. Register at www.acworthparksandrec.org.
24 Cars on the Lake. The Save Acworth History classic car and bike show will run 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Dallas Landing Park, 5120 Allatoona Drive. Admission is free. To enter a classic car or bike for a $25 fee, contact Mack Turner at 770-5467511. Proceeds benefit the Save Acworth History Foundation. www.saveacworthhistory.org.
The city of Acworth will host its Concert on the Green: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 5-10 p.m. at Logan Farm Park. The festival will highlight Hispanic cultures within the community and will feature a variety of Hispanic food vendors, music and dance groups in a fun, family-friendly environment. 770-917-1234.
The Allatoona High School band program will be holding The Conquest Marching Band Competition beginning at 4:15 p.m. The event will feature marching bands from Georgia and surrounding states competing for the grand https://bit.ly/3JWW2Uvchampionship.
44 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
SEPTEMBER
10 Pizza, Pints & Pigskins will have pizzerias from across Cobb County competing for the title of favorite pizza, noon-10 p.m., at Logan Farm Park, 4405 Cherokee St. Contests include People’s Choice, Judge’s Choice and Most Creative. The free event also will feature a kids zone, music from Scott Thompson and The Return — The Ultimate Beatles Tribute Band, televised football games, football activities and a beer garden. 770-4231330, www.jrmmanagement.com or billwatson@ Thejrmmanagement.com.
Kennesaw Grand Prix Series Races will be held the second Saturday of each month in front of Kennesaw First Baptist Church at 2958 N. Main St. The September race will benefit the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in downtown Kennesaw. Future races and organizations they benefit are: Oct. 8: Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw. Nov. 12: Wounded veterans. Visit https://kennesawgrandprix.com/faq/.
Around & About
17
22
Through Oct. 28
About
FARMERS MARKET
Through Sept. 24
The Acworth Farmers Market is open 8 a.m.-noon Fridays, rain or shine, at the main entrance of Logan Farm Park. Applications for vendors for the 2022 season are being accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis. For more information or an application, visit https://bit.ly/3O7Nydq.
Oct. 1-29
The 2022 Acworth Halloween JamBOOree is set for 3-7 p.m. at Logan Farm Park, on the large field in front of the playground. There will be games, rides, food, music and a costume contest for the kids. https://bit.ly/3AjccED.
BSD Taekwondo. This class is designed to teach ages 6 and older balance, hand-eye coordination and self-control using traditional taekwondo exercises, 3-4 p.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly sessions are available.
22
The city of Acworth, the downtown merchants and the Lake City Cruisers will hold the Fall Downtown Classic Car Cruise 4-9 p.m. at Logan Farm Park. The event is free to the public. A $5 entry fee is requested for all vehicles in the cruise. All proceeds go to the Horizon Field, an all-inclusive special-needs sports facility in Acworth. For information, contact Jeff Chase at jchase@acworth.org or 770-917-1234.
OCTOBER AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 45
The Taste of Acworth will take place 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Main Street downtown. This event benefits numerous schools and charities in the community. There will be more than 150 booths from local restaurants and businesses, plus two live entertainment stages and a kids zone. Admission is free. Restaurants will be offering food samples, ranging from $1-$5. 770-423-1330; www.acworthbusiness.org.
BSD Taekwondo. This is a traditional taekwondo class for adults, 8:45-9:45 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Students will learn balance, focus, self-control and how to grow their confidence. Traditional skills are designed to promote health, lower stress levels and develop the whole body, without the use of weapons.
Wednesdays Bend & Breathe Meditation Yin Yoga. This yoga class targets the deep connective tissues, such as fascia, ligaments, joints and bones. It’s slower and more meditative. 8:15-9 a.m. Monthly and drop-in rates are available.Fridays
“Founding Artists” exhibit will open with a reception Oct. 1, 4-7 RegisterOngoingp.m.for late summer/fall classes and workshops offered by the Acworth Arts Alliance. Classes and workshops for kids and adults take place at the Art House in downtown Acworth. acworthartsalliance.org/classes.
PARKS AND RECREATION Athletics Horizon Fall Baseball
Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga. SUP Yoga includes basic paddleboard safety and instruction and a one-hour yoga class focused on breath, balance and movement, 9:30-11:30 a.m., at Cauble SaturdaysPark.
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Registration is underway, and the season starts Sept. 8 for the adult league (ages 22 and older) and Sept. 10 for the youth (ages 5-12) and teen (ages 13-21) leagues. Games are played on Horizon Field in the Acworth Sports Complex at 4000 S. Main St. Fee is $15 for the season. https://bit.ly/3P71CFB. Community Classes Tuesdays Line dancing. Learn to line dance with knowledge, technique and style while staying fit. Intermediate classes, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., beginner classes, 1-2:30 p.m., and evening classes, 6:30-8 p.m., meet in monthly sessions.
www.acworthartsalliance.org.
“Ordinary to Extraordinary — Juried Art Exhibit” will have an open house and awards reception Sept. 3, 4-7 p.m. Receptions are free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be available.
ART HOUSE HAPPENINGS
Youth Programs Acworth Youth Basketball League. Registration is open for participants ages 5-18. Assessments will take place Oct. 22-23, practices will begin the week of Nov. 7, and games will begin Dec. 3. For information and to register, visit Tuesdayswww.acworthparksandrecreation.org.andThursdays
Saturdays Special Warriors Taekwondo. In this class, young community members with special needs will learn focus, balance, hand-eye coordination and effective self-defense. Classes meet monthly, 10-10:30 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center.
4361 Cherokee St., Acworth // acworthparksandrecreation.org.770-917-1234
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Share the Love. Shop Local. “Help local businesses grow
21. Acworth Bookstore 22. Acworth Flowers & Plants 23. Acworth Shad Shack 24. Amaryllis + Main Boutique 25. Appalachian Outfitters 26. Brenn Images 27. Hippie Kids 28. Jack’s Gems 29. Pearl’s Spa & Boutique 30. Picnic Market & Mercantile 11. J.D.’s Bar-B-Que 12. Juice Wine Bar by Fish Thyme 13. L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine 14. Miss L’s Sandwich Shop 15. Nibbles Grill 16. Pizza by Fusco’s 17. Red Top Brewhouse 18. Rico’s Mex Mex Grill 19. Scoops Ice Cream 20. Taptown Opening Fall 2022 31. Serendipity House 32. Something Tulle by Kristina Eaton 33. The Spa House 34. Star Stuff 35. Two LiRu Antiques & Decor 36. Wild Blossoms 37. The Art House 38. Vigiiante Cosmetics SHOPPINGRESTAURANTS 46 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
editorial
COMMUNITYACWORTHGARDEN CAUBLEPARK SOUTHPARKSHORE FIELDDURRPARKLANDINGLAKEPOINTTOPROCTORLANDINGPARKDALLASPARK LAKEACWORTHDR NMAINST DALLASST NORTHSIDEDR CENTER ST ACADEMYST SCHOOLST WILLIS SEMINOLEDR DALLASST BEACHST SCHOOL 31 22 29 213524 102198 LAKE ACWORTHDOWNTOWNACWORTH NON-MOTORIZED Unplug & reconnect – that’s what ACWORTH 1. 1885 Grill 2. Center Street Tavern 3. Daddy’s Country Kitchen 4. Doro’s Italian Kitchen 5. Eatalia Cafe & Creamery 6. Fish Thyme 7. Flavors of Hawaii 8. The Fountain 9. Fusco’s via Roma Italian Trattoria 10. Henry’s Louisiana Grill ShopAcworth Acworth
Our mission statement is the measure by which we determine our content each month: sharing hyperlocal, positive content with you. So it made perfect sense to take that a step further and build on what we began during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons: encouraging you to shop locally by giving you a map to follow. After many challenges in recent years, now is a perfect time to take advantage of this beautiful weather and visit our local retailers. They’ll be happy to see you, and you can leave with the satisfaction that you’ve been a part of contributing to the economic development of our community. Special thanks to Acworth city officials for sharing this NEW map with us. We’ll do our best to keep it updated — not an easy task, with the way our city is growing! If you see something missing or have any ideas for supporting our city, please let us know by emailing edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com. We’d love to hear from you. and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.”
EXIT 277EXIT COMMUNITYACWORTH278CENTER ACWORTHSPORTSCOMPLEX NEWBERRYPARKDOYALCOBBLESTONEGOLFCOURSEHILLPARK LOGANPARKFARM HWYTO DISTRICTRETAIL41 COWAN RD BAKER RD SCHOOLST TAYLORST CHEROKEEST WILLISST LOGANLEMONST RD MAPLEDR PARKSTWINNST WILLISST SCHOOL ST SOUTHSIDE DR SMAINST 30 36 27 342826 23 33 32 25 6 15 18 12 3 14 16 9 4 1 20 5 11 13 7 17 KENNWORTH COBB COUNTY PA designatedforLevelandThere• ACWORTH IS 35 MILES NORTHWEST OF ATLANTAACWORTH is all about. parkingaccess&goLookPARKING A 37 38 Acworth Acworth AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 47
SUBMITTED
AND AMANDA
• Once fueling is complete, securely fasten the gas cap and open all windows and doors to ventilate any fumes.
• If you have an inboard or inboard/outboard engine, it is time to run the bilge blower. Run the fan for four minutes. It’s also a good idea to run this blower before any engine start, since even a small leak can produce fumes.
Still, bonds continue to offer you some key benefits. For one thing, as long as you hold your bonds until maturity, you’ll continue to receive the same interest payments. Also, bonds can help reduce the effects of market volatility on a stock-heavy portfolio.Ifyouown bonds of varying durations — short-, intermediateand long-term — you should have some bonds maturing regularly. And in an environment like the current one, you can reinvest the proceeds of your expiring short-term bonds into new ones issued at potentially higher interest rates. By doing so, you BY ROBERTO DE JESUS YINGLING
Owning Bonds When Interest Rates Rise
Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling are financial advisers for the Edward Jones branch on Cedarcrest Road in Acworth.
• If your boat has an enclosed cabin, close all windows and doors before refueling. Because gasoline fumes are heavier than air, they can collect in the lower parts of the boat.
Next month, we’ll discuss the types and number of fire extinguishers you need to have on board your vessel. Over the past several years, there have been a few changes to this carriage requirement, and boaters need to know what those changes are.
• Try not to spill any fuel during the process. This adds to the fire danger and also contaminates the environment. Legally, you are responsible for your fuel spills.
It might not feel pleasant to see the current value of your bonds drop. But if you’re not selling them before they mature, and you can take advantage of the opportunities afforded by higher interest rates, you’ll find that owning bonds still can be a valuable part of your investment strategy.
• Use your nose! Gasoline has a distinct odor that you can smell even in small amounts. If you smell gas, shut down everything and find the source.
Before investing in bonds, you should understand the risks involved, including credit risk and market risk. Bond investments also are subject to interest-rate risk, such that when interest rates rise, the prices of bonds can decrease, and the investor can lose principal value if the investment is sold before maturity.
possibly can earn yourself more income. Also, by owning a mix of bonds, you’ll still have the longer-term ones working for you, and these bonds typically — but not always — pay a higher interest rate than the shorter-term ones.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial adviser. Edward Jones. Member SIPC.
• Be sure all electrical devices and the engine are turned off.
48 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Fire on a boat always has been a dreaded and sometimes fatal experience. When refueling, the risk of fire is heightened. Fires at a refueling dock have happened at our local lakes, but there are precautions you can take to minimize the risk.
• Frequently check your fuel lines and connections for leaks and worn spots.
Fire Safety Aboard Your Vessel, Part 1 BY GREG FONZENO
As you know, the stock market has attracted a lot of attention, and for good reason, as we’ve seen considerable volatility almost from the beginning of the year. But if you own bonds or bondbased mutual funds, you also might have some concerns. It’s important to understand why bonds should continue to be an important part of your portfolio.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
• When gasoline passes through the pump hose, it generates static electricity. If that sparks with the fumes at the fuel tank fill point, an explosion can occur. To dissipate the static electricity, keep the hose’s metal nozzle in contact with the metal part of the refueling opening to ground the system.
To learn more about this subject and other safety topics, consider taking a boating-safety class. For information on classes, visit https://bit.ly/3BHeZIS or email flotilla22pe@gmail.com.
To begin with, let’s look at what’s happened with bond prices recently. Inflation has heated up, leading the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates to help “cool off” the economy. And rising interest rates typically raise bond yields — the total annual income that investors get from their “coupon” (interest) payments. Rising yields can cause a drop in the value of your existing bonds because investors will want to buy the newly issued bonds that offer higher yields than yours.
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 49
It’s hard to pick just one guest, but one of my most memorable guests was Memesha Davis, Episode 25. She was a former retail worker who went from making $13K to $100K as an ironworker journeyman in New York City. I learned about her through an article on CNBC and contacted her through LinkedIn to be a guest on my podcast. She was a single-mom cancer survivor and very inspirational. She represents a great example of how to help address some of the under representation in the skilled trades by women and other minorities. Exposure to these careers, starting with girls in middle school, will help. Finally, providing a roadmap with access to apprenticeships and mentors can help to close the gender gap. What can be done about the gender gap in the trades?
Keith Williams Kim Dahnke kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com770-778-5314
Contact us to reserve yours today. WWW.AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM Covers Get Results! Find out how you can be featured on the cover! 50 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Listeners enjoy learning people’s stories and experiences because they are so relatable. They are attracted to hearing about the career journeys of influencers and well-known skilltrades people. After 100 podcasts, what is your favorite story?
BY RYAN BLYTHE
A Roadmap to
Bringing attention and support to nonprofits that are actively promoting careers in the skilled trades to young women, like Tools & Tiaras and KickAss Careers, is also key. I think if we can create a platform that lists all the organizations that support women entering the trades, it would help as well. This is a challenge that has existed for years, and it won’t be fixed in a day.
I started my podcast because I wanted to build relationships with people in the skilled trades, and I wanted to educate youth and career changers about the trades and what it takes to be successful. My vision for this podcast is for it to be a resource for those who are underrepresented in the skilled trades, primarily youth, women and minorities. I have been blessed to have people help me in my career, and this podcast allows me to pay it forward. I cannot think of a better way to learn about a profession from business owners and skilledtrades professionals. What do listeners find so compelling?
Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which for the seventh consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year Keith Williams is a technology entrepreneur whose startup, Skill Stadium, a skilled-trades job platform, uses video to connect job seekers and employers. Born and raised in Montreal, Williams is a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. The Trent University graduate has held consulting and leadership positions in technology for companies ranging from IBM to startups. Why did you decide to do a podcast?
Skilled Trades
How can job seekers take advantage of your platform?
The biggest value of the Skill Stadium platform for job seekers is the ability to use video to showcase skills. Employers want to know that job seekers have the skills required to fulfill duties of the job. A video can allow a candidate to stand out. Best of all, it’s easy to create a profile and takes less than 10 minutes.
BY DENSON PEPPER
As we approach the extended deadline to file 2021 income tax returns, here are three facts to keep in mind about unfiled returns:
CPA Denson Pepper is your neighbor, with 30-plus years of IRS experience. He is an expert at helping people resolve their income tax problems. 678-797-5241.
The IRS shut down much of its collection arm again early this year. For the rest of this year, a dramatic return to collection enforcement and many mailed tax notices are expected. Don’t go it alone.
3. The collection statute of limitations does not begin until a return is filed and assessed. Don’t ignore unfiled taxes.
1. Generally, the IRS only requires you to file the most recent six years of returns, 2016 to 2021 this year.
2. The IRS will not consider a repayment plan for prior years’ taxes unless all required returns have been filed.
FOOD AND FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! 150 BOOTHS FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND BUSINESSES! $1-$5 FOOD SAMPLES • KIDS ZONE • INFLATABLES & GAMES TWO LIVE ENTERTAINMENT STAGES • DOG SHOW To learn more or submit sponsor/vendor application, visit www.acworthbusiness.org/taste-of-acworth . SATURDAY, OCT. 8 11 A.M. - 6 P.M. FREE ADMISSION
The IRS can file your return for you and send you the bill. Usually, the tax will be greater than it would have been had you filed it yourself.
Are You Struggling With Tax Problems?
For peace of mind, reach out to a trusted tax professional, specializing in unfiled returns. If you have a tax liability, a tax professional can represent you to tax authorities and negotiate the best available settlement.
Do you or your company need to catch up on the required filing of income tax returns to the U.S. Treasury or the Georgia Department of Revenue?
If you are due a refund, you must file within three years of the original return’s due date, or the IRS can keep your money. Technology helps find nonfilers. Once again, the IRS is using software to find nonfilers. Enforcement labor shortages will dictate more of its usage in the foreseeable future.
If you’re worried about going it alone, a tax professional can help you navigate a confusing maze of laws and protect your appeal rights after returns have been filed and assessed.
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 51
Tim Wolfe - First Place (Car Frame Up) Novice Umit Yuksel - Second Frank Seco de Lucena - First Place (Red Sky at Night) 52 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Cobb Photographic Society
Color
Congratulations to everyone who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for July was “General (with no editing).” The guest judge was photographer Ron Ward. The Cobb Photographic Society is a club open to photographers of all skill levels. It meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.
AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 53
Monochrome Place (Birth of a Different Feather) Melissa Moody - Third Place (Abstract Banana)
Paul Shimek - First Place (Buckets)
Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue 49 770-272-6888 www.mostlymutts.org
FINANCIAL
North Cobb Christian School Back cover 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org St. Joseph Catholic School 43 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org EVENTS ABA Charity Golf Tournament 39 www.acworthbusiness.org/golftournament Gobble Jog 43 www.gobblejog.org Home of the Brave 33 www.crossroadswoodstock.org Kennesaw Grand Prix Series 2022 49 www.kennesawgrandprix.com North Georgia State Fair 43 www.northgeorgiastatefair.com and Brews Fall Festival 39 www.tasteandbrews.com Taste of Acworth 51 www.acworthbusiness.org/taste-ofacworth SERVICES Bay Equity Home Loans 7 Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644
Paradise Rental Boats 35 678-884-4331 www.bestinboating.com/boat-rentals
LGE
Edward Jones, Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling 5 www.edwardjones.com678-574-5166 Credit Union 13 www.
ACCOUNTING AND TAX SERVICES
Orcutt Law Offices 23 678-383-7857 www.orcuttlawoffices.com Williams | Elleby 1 833-LEGALGA (534-2542) www.gatrialattorney.com
EDUCATION & RELATED SERVICES
Denson Pepper, CPA 11 www.densonpeppercpa.com678-797-5241ATTORNEYS/LEGALSERVICES
DENTAL Biologic Dentistry 38 770-426-9994 www.biologicdentistry.com Daniel Lee DMD, PC 35 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com
lgeccu.org FUNERAL SERVICES Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 5 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com GAS STATIONS Shell, Acworth Travel Plaza 9 770-702-5910 HEALTH & WELLNE SS Sorrow to Strength Grief Coaching 35 www.sorrowtostrength.com404-542-1229HOME&GARDEN Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 1 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com EcoTech Services 7 678-427-4345 www.ecotechatl.com Enhance Floors & More 31 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com House Therapy, Betsy Manley 19 www.678-316-8368betsymanley.com Maid in America 11 www.maidinamericaga.com770-427-4448 Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 15 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com September 2022 Advertisers This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the Around Acworth magazine! For advertising rates and information | Kim Dahnke 770-778-5314 | kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM 54 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
CHARITABLE
www.jayclosesloans.com
ORGANIZATIONS
AUTOMOTIVE KAMS Auto Service Center 17 www.kamsauto.com770-956-4060BUSINESSSUPPORT Acworth Business Association 14 www.acworthbusiness.orgBOATRENTALS
Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back www.georgiadic.com770-926-2784
Brookwood Christian 23 678-401-5855 www.brookwoodchristian.com Chattahoochee Tech 15 www.chattahoocheetech.edu/98-7 chattahoochee-tech-podcasts Georgia Trade School 33 www.georgiatradeschool.com
Taste
PHOTOGRAPHY Red Baryl Portraits 55 PHYSICIANS815-540-0936AND MEDICAL SERVICES Asha Advanced Dermatology 19 770-739-7546 www.skinangel.com Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 3, 34 www.governorsmedicine.com678-888-5181REALESTATE/HOUSING Anchor Realty Partners 7 Malinda Howe, Broker: 404-444-0225 Deborah Hill: 770-361-9200 www.malindahowe.com Atlanta Communities, Debi Smith 33 Direct: 404-660-6652 Office: 770-240-2004 debismith.atlcommunities.com Siegel Select Extended-Stay Living 19 www678-257-3124.siegelselect.com/extended-stayapartments-atlanta RESTAU RANTS/FOOD Dairy Queen 9 678-903-4090RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Cotton Mill Exchange 5 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net Golf Cars of Canton 11 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com The Rustic Market 3 www.shoptherusticmarket.com Your CBD Store-Acworth 17 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com678-909-5230SENIORLIVING/SERVICES DayBreak Village Inside cover 770-218-6166 www.daybreakvillage.com Silver Comet Village Cover, 28-29 770-222-2775 www.SilverCometVillage.com We have a place in the homes of our community. AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022 55
Armchair Travel: Tortuga. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Explore the island of Tortuga. Sept. 8
Culinary Creations: Food Pairings. 1-2 p.m. Expand the taste buds and try unlikely food pairings, such as avocado and jam or banana and bacon.
Meets the third Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the West Cobb Senior Center and the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at North Cobb Senior Center. Join veterans 55 and older for an informal get-together. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for information. Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department // www.acworthparksandrecreation.org770-917-1234
CITY OF ACWORTH
Sept. 21 City of Acworth’s Senior Luncheon. Every third Wednesday. Lunch is served at noon at the Acworth Community Center. This program is free to all seniors, but you must RSVP the week prior to the luncheon in order to attend, 770-917-1234.
Mondays Chair Yoga With Mary. 11 a.m.noon. For adults 55 and older. This class is conducted in a chair, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.
Tuesdays, Thursdays
56 AROUND ACWORTH | September 2022
Sept. 7
Gentle Yoga With Mary. 1-2 p.m. Designed for adults 55 and older, but ages 18 and older are welcome. This class is conducted on a mat, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles. Thursdays Live Cardio. 10-10:45 a.m., Aug. 25-Dec. 1, Acworth Community Center. Strengthen and tighten muscles using free weights. Free for city of Acworth residents ages 55 and over, $15 for nonresidents. Zoom Cardio. 10-10:45 a.m., Aug. 25Dec. 1. Strengthen and tighten muscles using free weights. Free.
Film on Friday: “The Lost City.” Noon-2 p.m. A romance novelist and her cover model get swept up in a kidnapping attempt that lands them in a cutthroat jungle adventure.
Mondays, Wednesdays Senior Warriors Gentle Movements. 10-10:30 a.m. Seniors 55 and older learn traditional Korean movements to increase balance, mental focus and ability to move. Class is taught by Omar Welch, an instructor certified by the U.S. Taekwondo Federation. Tuesdays Live Chair Yoga. 10-10:45 a.m., Aug. 23-Nov. 29, Acworth Community Center. Learn stretching and strengthening exercises and breathing techniques. Free for city of Acworth residents, $15 for nonresidents. Zoom Chair Yoga. 10-10:45 a.m., Aug. 23-Nov. 29. Learn stretching and strengthening exercises and breathing techniques during this free class.
Senior Activities 4100 S. Main St., Acworth // www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services770-975-7740
NORTH COBB SENIOR CENTER
Sept. 27 Fall Prevention Seminar. 11 a.m.-12:55 p.m. Sept. 28
Crafting Corner: Chain Pull Painting. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. each day. Join volunteer Evelyn Patrick for chain pull painting. $15 supply fee to instructor. Sept. 14
Sept. 26 Active Shooter Seminar. 10 a.m.-noon. Take part in the Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events course, which provides strategies and a plan for surviving an active-shooter event.
VETERAN CONNECTION
Senior Day from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the North Georgia State Fair. Come for a fun-filled day that includes games, entertainment and delicious food.
Game Show Afternoon: Let’s Make A Deal. 1-2 p.m. Enjoy this version of the hilarious, popular TV game show. Sept. 13-14
Your Emotional Health Matters. 1-2 p.m. Learn how to identify and combat poor emotional health as you age. Sept. 16
Sept. 23
Armchair Detectives. 1-2 p.m. A new activity to test critical-thinking skills by solving a crime based on facts, clues and police interviews. Sept. 13 Planning for Your Future. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn how proper planning can reduce costs, alleviate stress and provide ongoing legal and financial protection.
