Cherokee Ledger Monthly - December 2024

Veterans Park | Drive-thruCanton 11/23 - 12/31

Hobgood Park | Woodstock Walk-thru w/Santa 11/29 - 12/30

Local dance school brings holiday tradition to life with “The Nutcracker”

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to our December issue

The holiday season has arrived. For some of you, decorations came out the day after Halloween, and Christmas tree lightings, holiday light displays and more kicked off in November. Many children are getting excited to meet Santa Claus and tell him what they want most under their tree this year.

Whatever you’re celebrating this season, it’s a good time to gather with family and friends, and enjoy warm company when it’s cold outside. Many of us will be carrying on treasured timehonored traditions, and maybe you’ll start some new traditions this year. As for me, I’m looking forward to watching a cheesy Hallmark movie with my husband, seeing my out-of-state family and the return of the Little Debbie gingerbread cookies.

you’ll see theater productions, parades, tree lightings and other fun things to do around Cherokee County.

As we’re closing in on the final weeks of the year, it’s also a time to take stock of all the good things that have happened this year before we say “goodbye” to 2024 and “hello” to 2025. Consider giving back by donating to a local charity, or volunteering some time to help someone this season. If you can, I recommend you sign up for the Service League’s Reindeer Run for the Children 5K Dec. 7 at Etowah River Park — their Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival this fall was canceled due to Hurricane Helene, and their programs help many children in the local community.

In this issue you’ll see what goes into Dancentre South’s annual production of “The Nutcracker of Cherokee County.”

You’ll also read about who Holly Springs voters chose to be their next mayor, a grocery store in Woodstock, how the small town of Ball Ground hosts one of the biggest Christmas parades in North Georgia, new restaurants in the area and more.

In the Community Events section,

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family, and have a happy New Year.

Shannon Ballew Managing Editor

Community News

♦ Open container district coming to Ball Ground, 4

♦ New leadership in Holly Springs, 5

♦ New shopping opportunities abound in Woodstock, 6

Cover Story

♦ The toys come to life for holiday tradition, 8

Opinion

♦ Perspectives, 11

♦ Letters to the Editor, 12

Publisher Lee b g ArreTT

Managing Editor ShAnnon bALLeW

VP of Content Jk mUrPhy

Writers

eThAn JohnSon rebeccA JohnSTon grIFFIn cALLAghAn

Dr. ADAm LAnD

mArcIA WIncheSTer JoSePh benneTT

VP of Advertising bob mccrAy

Circulation Director DAVe goSSeTT

VP of Production DoUg croW

Photographers

eThAn JohnSon

robIn rAyne

cecIL coPeLAnD

AnThony STALcUP

JAcky cheng

JAmeS eUbAnkS

Layout & Design

PhILIP cLemenTS, JUSTIn grIFFIn

On the Cover - Urban Rump Photography blaire Waddington as clara in Dancentre South’s 2023 production of ‘The nutcracker of cherokee county’

Volume 1, Issue 2

♦ Soapbox: Readers speak out, 13

Dining

♦ A new pizza joint is on the way, 14

♦ Thai restaurant opens its doors, 15

Entertainment & Community Events

♦ Be sure to come early and bring a toy for the annual Ball Ground Christmas parade, 17

Sports

♦ A state champion is crowned, 21

♦ Local runners lead the way at state

meet, 22

♦ Local softballers play in state all star game, 23

♦ ROTC students bring home the hardware, 24

Health

♦ Moss Family Chiropractic marks 20 years in Cherokee County, 26

♦ How the cold affects your joints, 27

Cherokee Social Scene

♦ Denim Fest celebrates Canton history, 29

♦ Local seniors visit Cherokee Triad SALT Senior Extravaganza, 30

♦ Reformation Brewery celebrates 11th anniversary at Cadence Fair, 31

Gardening

♦ Evergreen tips for December landscapes, 32

Puzzles

♦ Crossword and Sudoku, 33

Business

♦ Key changes to 401(k) and IRA rules under SECURE 2.0, 20

♦ Canton hires a new economic development manager, 28

♦ Service Directory, 34

Ballew

Open container district coming to Ball Ground in ’25

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

In 2025, people will be will be able to walk around a specific area of downtown Ball Ground with an alcoholic drink during limited weekend hours.

On Oct. 10, the Ball Ground City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to implement an open container alcohol district, or “entertainment district,” within the city’s downtown area.

The ordinance establishes a geographical boundary for the public to carry open containers and drink alcoholic beverages in public spaces, and defines the rules for the open carry and consumption of alcohol in the district.

“Our downtown merchants, restaurants especially, have been asking for open container to place them on an equal playing field with surrounding jurisdictions (Canton, Woodstock, Jasper, etc.,) that allow patrons to enjoy portions of their downtown area with an open container,” Ball Ground City Manager Eric Wilmarth told the Cherokee Ledger. “While there has been a hesitancy to allow this in Ball Ground, our team of

elected officials agreed on a compromise ordinance that will allow open container in Ball Ground in a specifically defined area.”

“We have some events that we allow open containers at already, but this is for normal weekends — Fridays and Saturdays initially,” said Ball Ground Mayor Rick Roberts.

The district is generally “on the bricks” or the sidewalks along Gilmer Ferry Road/Ball Ground

Road between the four-way stop at Old Canton Road and the intersection at Civic Drive, according to the map. Specific sections of Civic Drive, Old Dawsonville Road and Old Canton Road are also included.

The district also includes City Connection Park next to the Burger Bus and the Ball Ground City Park where the amphitheater is. Open containers are not allowed in Calvin Farmer Park, Lions

DAN SCHILLING Agency Manager

Field or other city-owned and maintained properties, including parking lots.

Starting Jan. 1, 2025, businesses with a fixed location in downtown Ball Ground that are licensed by the city to serve alcohol are eligible to apply for a permit allowing them to serve open container alcohol to-go, according to the city. Participating restaurants will be required to attend training on the ordinance.

The cups must be no more than 16 ounces.

Special exceptions are provided for certain festivals and events that have an approved permit with the city.

Carrying an open alcohol container within the district will be limited to the following hours: 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays and noon to 9 p.m. Saturdays.

Open container is prohibited outside of these hours and certain designated family friendly events, including the Ball Ground Christmas Parade, Halloween Spooktacular, Touch-a-Truck, and others as determined by the city council.

Visitors are not allowed to bring their own open alcohol container into the district, according to the city.

“If all goes well, we may visit this again in the future with an eye on expanding the allowable days/hours,” Wilmarth said. “By the same measure, if things do not go well, the ordinance could be revisited to tighten restrictions or eliminate the district.”

For more information, visit cityofballground.com/open-container-alcohol-district.

The Ball Ground Open Container Alcohol District

Ryan Shirley will be the next mayor of Holly Springs

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

In November, Holly Springs voters chose Ryan Shirley to be the city’s next mayor. According to Cherokee County’s official election results, Shirley earned 5,683 votes, or 61.85% of the vote.

His opponent Mark Aurand had 3,505 votes.

Shirley, 43, is a commercial real estate broker.

He said he worked hard to win the election and that he’s excited to get started.

“I feel like I really tried my best to win it — I can’t lie, I was nervous but now I am excited for the opportunity to lead the city and take the torch from Steve (Miller) for the next four years and continue on what he has helped build,” he said. “I am excited to help take the Town Center and downtown to the finish line, while ensuring this growing town continues to have a small-town charm. First thing I need to do though is talk to peo-

ple and learn and ask questions.”

Shirley also said that he appreciates the time spent running against Aurand.

“I feel that he ran a very honest race and is a good guy — we both ran an honest race and never took shots at each other, which I think is representative of Cherokee County as a whole...he ran an honorable race,” Shirley said. Aurand did not respond to a request for comment.

Holly Springs Mayor Steven Miller did not sign up to run for re-election. Miller has served as Holly Springs’ mayor since 2017.

Ward 3 Councilmember Michael Roy Zenchuk II and Ward 5 City Councilmember Jeff Wilbur both qualified to run for re-election without opposition.

Zenchuk received 8,400 votes, according to the results. Wilbur received 8,454 votes.

The city is expected to hold swearing-in ceremonies for Shirley and the returning council members in January.

Board Certified Rheumatologists and physician assistants with over 100 years of combined experience. Serving Atlanta since 1982, we provide excellence in rheumatologic care, where your health and comfort are our top priorities.

Paul Sutej, MD

Paula Tanasa, MD

Cashelle Rose, PA-C

Mila Dzmitranitsa, FNP-C

Ryan Shirley Mark Aurand

Shopping center with grocery store coming to Woodstock

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

A new shopping center is bringing a grocery store and additional retail space to Towne Lake Parkway in downtown Woodstock.

The Woodstock City Council voted 5-0 Oct. 28 to approve a zone map amendment, rezoning and several variances to allow Connolly Realty, LLC to build a multi-tenant shopping center on a little over 10.7 acres on Towne Lake Parkway, between Sherwood Drive and the Mill Street roundabout.

Council Member Brian Wolfe was absent from the meeting.

The shopping center will include a 46,791 square-foot grocery store and five commercial buildings ranging from 3,500 square feet to 13,750 square feet, according to city documents.

One city resident said during the public hearing that she would like to see local small businesses occupy these retail spaces.

In response, attorney Parks Huff, representing the applicant, said these spaces are designed specifically to welcome smaller and local operators, rather than national brands.

The development will have 484 parking spaces.

Infrastructure improvements will need to be made to the property, including extending Lyndee Lane, according to city documents.

The zone map amendment was needed to rezone the property from Downtown Residential/Office (DT-RO) to Downtown, Central Business District (DT-CBD). The easternmost parcel within the property was already zoned DT-CBD, according to the city.

The approved variances, requested by the applicant, pertain to site design, architectural standards, open space and trees, and more to deviate from the city’s Land Development Ordinance and development standards specific to downtown Woodstock.

No specific tenant has been identified for the grocery store, according to city documents.

The applicant had requested sign waivers to accommodate the sign package submitted for the grocery building, however, city staff did not feel comfortable making a recommendation for tenant building signage without knowing who the tenant would be, according to city documents. Once the developer has secured a grocery tenant, the company can go to city staff to request tenant-specific sign variances, said Woodstock Community Development Director Tracy Albers.

CHEROKEE COUNTY COMMUNITY NEWS

CHEROKEE COUNTY OKS ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR OLD HIGHWAY 5

Cherokee County has hired a firm to conduct engineering services for potential improvements to the Old Highway 5 Corridor.

On Nov. 5, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a professional services agreement with Keck and Wood for engineering services for concept planning for the Old Highway 5 Corridor.

The corridor encompasses Old Highway 5/Main Street/Holly Springs Parkway from its intersection with Ridgewalk Parkway to East Cherokee Drive.

The $72,430 professional services agreement will include engineering services such as tallying traffic counts, creating a traffic engineering report, and preparing concept layouts, according to county documents.

Cherokee County, Holly Springs and Woodstock have approved an intergovernmental agreement to share the costs of concept planning for the Old Highway 5 Corridor.

The county will be responsible for $32,993.33 of the total cost of the work, while Holly Springs and Woodstock will each be responsible for $19,718.33, ac -

cording to county documents.

The project is expected to be completed in three to four months, according to county documents.

DUPREE PARK COULD GET A MAJOR UPGRADE

Renovations and additions including a skate park and BMX pump track could be coming to Dupree Park in Woodstock, if approved early next year.

The Woodstock City Council heard a presentation from Lose Design on a proposed master plan to renovate Dupree Park Oct. 28.

The Dupree Park Master Plan is based on what city leaders, staff and residents have said they would like to see included in a renovated 22-acre Dupree Park on Neese Road, according to city documents.

The city owns property adjacent to Dupree Park that it’s planning to incorporate into the park.

The council did not vote on the proposed master plan. The final plan will be presented to the city council for potential adoption in early 2025.

The proposed renovations, which would take place in three phases, could cost $13.8 million, according to the city.

“The money has not been identified

Lose Design’s proposed plan for the renovated Dupree Park. The plan was developed after hearing input from residents. The city council is expected to consider the plan for possible adoption in early 2025.

for this yet — this is a plan, and it takes time to plan before we can go execute — this is the early part of the process,”

Council Member Colin Ake said.

The proposed plan for Dupree Park

shows a plaza area, a nature playground, a learning meadow with an outdoor classroom, a walking loop, open lawn

See BRIEFS, 7

A rendering shows what the shopping center may look like. Special

A rendering shows what the grocery store may look like.

BRIEFS

From 6

space, remediated disc golf space, 10 independent pickleball courts with artificial turf, four tennis courts with four additional pickleball striping options on the upper terrace, a lake shoreline remediation and stabilization area, a renovated playground, half-court basketball courts, a 7,700 square-foot skate park, a BMX pump track, trail space, an interactive fountain, an updated K-9 memorial plaque, and sidewalk improvements throughout.

The proposed plan also shows over 300 parking spaces.

“I am excited to see the expanded parking and expanded opportunities within the park,” Ake said.

To see the proposed Dupree Park Master Plan, visit tinyurl.com/ywxbssuk.

HISTORIC CANTON THEATRE GETS A GRANT FOR RENOVATIONS

The historic Canton Theatre has received a $20,000 grant through the Fox Theatre’s Fox Gives program to “preserve and enhance the Theatre’s exterior,” the city of Canton announced.

On Nov. 7, the Canton City Council unanimously approved the use of the grant to fund critical exterior renovations for the theater at 171 E. Main St. in downtown Canton.

Planned renovations include refreshing the paint, replacing or restoring signage, windows, doors and trim, as well as repairing and revitalizing marquee lighting.

The Fox Theatre’s Fox Gives program provides financial support to historic theaters across Georgia, helping preserve these community landmarks.

“The Historic Canton Theatre has served as a shining star in Downtown Canton for well over 100 years,” said Kristin Norton Green, Canton Theatre events and facilities director. “The gracious support of the Fox Theatre will allow us to make much-needed exterior renovations which will keep our Historic Theatre shining as a place of community, entertainment, and art for years to come. We are grateful for this investment in Downtown Canton.”

171 HOMES COULD BE COMING TO KNOX BRIDGE HIGHWAY

The Canton City Council is scheduled to consider a request from a developer looking to build a 171-home neighborhood near the River Green subdivision.

Knox Bridge Land Partners is applying to annex, rezone, and obtain master plan approval to build a 171-unit detached single-family home neighborhood on 57.16 acres. The property is just west of the River Green neighborhood and includes property on the north and south side of Knox Bridge Highway, according to city documents.

The applicant is asking to rezone the property from agriculture (coun -

ty) to R-10 (city), single-family residential (10,000 square feet), according to the city.

The public hearing is set for 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at Canton City Hall, 110 Academy St, in downtown Canton. A vote is scheduled for Dec. 19.

The meeting can also be viewed online at canton.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

TOWNHOMES COMING TO BELLS FERRY ROAD NEAR CANTON

A 73-unit townhome development is coming to Bells Ferry Road next to the BridgeMill neighborhood.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 Nov. 5 to approve a request from Jeff Rusbridge representing Streetside Company, LLC to rezone 18.42 acres at 8667 Bells Ferry Road from general agriculture to single-family attached residential to build a 73-unit townhome community.

Commissioner Richard Weatherby, who has a relative with an interest in the assemblage, recused himself from the vote.

The applicant originally requested to build 80 townhomes, however, the Cherokee County Planning Commission requested that the density be lowered

to four units per acre. This reduced the unit count by seven, according to county documents.

This approval comes with 13 conditions, including that no more than 10% of the units will be for rent, and that there will be one entrance into the community off Bells Ferry Road. There will be a left turn lane into the

development and deceleration lane coming south on Bells Ferry Road. Other conditions pertain to buffers and lighting.

The townhomes are planned to be priced above $600,000. Each townhome would feature about 3,100 square feet of living space and be up to three stories tall with an attached two-car garage.

ethan Johnson

The Canton Theatre in downtown Canton.

Special

This rendering shows a design for proposed townhomes by Streetside Company, LLC.

COVER STORY

A tale of wonder and delight

‘The Nutcracker’ celebrates tradition, brings holidays to life

By Rebecca Johnston

The magic and beauty of perhaps the most beloved ballet of all times, “The Nutcracker” is for many a key ingredient in celebrating the holidays.

For 26 years, “The Nutcracker of Cherokee County,” Dancentre South’s presentation of the classic ballet, has brought local families together each holiday season to enjoy the beautiful story of a girl who befriends a nutcracker on Christmas Eve.

More than 200 dancers participate in Dancentre South’s annual production of the original full-length ballet written by Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky and first performed in December 1892.

“It is not the holidays until we have our performances of ‘The Nutcracker,’” said Brooke Hatch, owner of the Woodstock dance school. “Our performances are a family tradition for so many. With an important place in the history of dance, spending months in production, and seeing our dancers being really proud of a job well done, there is just nothing like that.”

The local dance school began performing “The Nutcracker” in 1998. Presented at the KSU Mari-

etta Dance Theater, the holiday tradition draws audiences of 2,700 each season. Performances for 2024 are Friday, Dec. 20, Saturday, Dec. 21, and Sunday, Dec. 22.

“We are passing along history. It is such an old and beloved ballet,” Hatch said.

Tchaikovsky loosely based his ballet of The Nutcracker on the E.T.A. Hoffmann fantasy story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” about a young girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King.

In the ballet, Clara, a young girl, creeps downstairs on Christmas Eve to play with her favorite gift, a nutcracker. A mysterious magician, Drosselmeyer, is waiting to whisk her off on a magical adventure.

After defeating the villainous Mouse King, Clara and the nutcracker fly on a golden sleigh through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy serves up a dazzling display of dances, including her own.

“Our Nutcracker has an annual budget of $40,000 providing professional sets, costumes, and staff of-

See NUTCRACKER, 10

in a past production of

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

Ali Gilam, Macie Bruderer, Sarah Esserwein and Raina Vaughn performed in Dancentre South’s ‘The Nutcracker of Cherokee County’ last year.

London Hubbard played an angel

Dancentre South’s ‘The Nutcracker of Cherokee County.’

rump

COVER STORY

NUTCRACKER

From 8

fering our students the opportunity to perform in a production parents are proud to share with friends and family,” Hatch said.

“The Nutcracker of Cherokee County” is under the administration of Dancentre South Company Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and separate entity from the studio. “The Nutcracker of Cherokee County,” as the local production is called, is funded through private and corporate donations, company advertising sales, fundraising, and ticket proceeds.

Dancentre South was founded in 1993 in downtown Woodstock by prominent professional dancers Marcus Alford and Annie Gay, who opened the school after a wonderful dancing career in New York and Chicago, Hatch said.

Hatch, who purchased the dance school from Alford and Gay in 2018, has been a part of Dancentre South for the 32 years since it was founded.

“I grew up here. This was a dream of mine for as long as I can remember, to own this dance studio. I was here first as a student, then as a company member, then I taught on the faculty, became assistant director, and now I am the owner and director,” she said.

Under Hatch’s direction Dancentre South provides quality dance education for preschoolers through advanced professional dancers.

The Dancentre South Company provides an elite group of serious dancers ages 9 and up the chance for additional training and experience. Company dancers, as well as other students at the dance school of all ages, audition for parts in “The Nutcracker” each fall.

“Our cast of ‘The Nutcracker’ includes 4- and 5-year-

olds, and our oldest dancer this year is in his 70s,” Hatch said. “About 200 dancers rotate in different casts. Some of the roles are triple cast, some are double cast, and a few do all six shows. My cavalier, the most advanced male role, is a professional but is a Dancentre South alumni who comes back and dances in a professional capacity.”

The role of the cavalier, the male lead, is played by Luke Steele. The other lead dancers are all students, Hatch said.

“Being a part of Dancentre South’s production of ‘The Nutcracker’ is a true honor. It’s more than just a performance — it’s a celebration of tradition, artistry, and community,” Steele said. “The care and commitment that the faculty has had ever since I attended is evident in the quality of their students today. I am honored to be returning to my home studio after almost 10 years to help them bring this story to life.”

While Dancentre South has changed up the production a lot over the years, much of the original choreographer’s work still remains with variations.

“Our choreography is very much our exclusive work from our staff, whether it is from staff 15 years ago, to those working today,’ Hatch explained.

Hatch said that being able to provide a quality production of the classic ballet at an easily reached and accessible location is important for the community.

“I think one of my favorite things is that we have families who are no longer affiliated with the studio, but they still come back for ‘Nutcracker,’” she said. “I also like that once we get into the second half of the show, where each variation focuses on different parts of the world, the folk aspect, and how we can communicate through the music and the dance, the performers gain the experience, and the ability to tell the story no matter what role they have.”

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20; 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21; and 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 22.

Addie and Charlotte Leitner performed in a past production of Dancentre South’s ‘The Nutcracker of Cherokee County.’

Ticket costs are from $25 to $30 for adults and $17 to $22 for children 12 and under.

To purchase tickets or for information visit dancentresouth.com.

COLUMNIST | REBECCA JOHNSTON

After what seems like the longest election season in recent times, we are all a little feeling a little combat fatigue, whatever side we were on.

There has been so much angry rhetoric, noise, division, anxiety, and even fear about what the future will hold. Being in a battleground state has added yet another layer of intensity with nonstop negative ads being hurled at us almost every minute of the day and night.

While we can now breath a sign of relief, many others are left feeling devastated as the final votes are counted and the pundits try to analyze what happened for all sides and what the new political landscape looks like.

I think we all probably have friends on both sides of what I have come to call the great divide of politics in our country. Now is the time to start the healing.

My pastor, Justin Bishop, said it far better than I ever could, in something he posted to social media on Wednesday morning.

“I spent yesterday under tension. I tried not to think about the election, but this nagging anxiety pervaded my thoughts and feelings the entire day. But anxiety is not of God,” Justin wrote. “I awoke this morning to see who had won. Some of you will be celebrating. Some of you will be grieving. That was going to be true no matter who won the election.

“But whether you suffered a victory or a defeat, the truth remains that we all have some serious work to do. The division, the vitriol, the polarization and downright hate that has invaded

COLUMNIST|LYNN GENDUSA

Recently, I found myself sinking into a deep depression. In those moments, I turned to the only lifeguard I had in those shark-infested waters: God. I prayed fervently, unsure of what I was asking for, but I think it was a life preserver. I am not alone because we all have stormy, sad, and difficult days.

After my prayers, I needed solace. The recent, emotionally charged and contentious election cycle had left many of us feeling drained and in need of soothing. I asked Alexa to play music to calm my soul. I knew there had to be a song buried somewhere in my heart I needed to hear.

I have decided today that God has a thing for jelly. I swear my husband loves our church because of those jelly-filled donuts they offer and the minister who allows David to spread crumbs while he’s preaching. So, the first song that Alexa played was “I Am Not Okay” by Jelly Roll.

Since I am not music savvy and the only tune I know well is “Jesus Loves Me,” I paused to listen when I heard Mr. Roll sing, “I am not okay, but it’s all gonna’ be alright.” Yes,

A time to heal

our country and our hearts over the last few years is not of God.

“Strength, power, money. Those things matter to the culture around us. But we serve a master greater than those. If we are to truly follow Christ, then love and service must be our champions.

“So let us not be sore losers. Let us not be sore winners. Let us be a beacon of God’s love as we venture into the mystery of what’s next.”

I have a lot of first-hand experience with local political races. Strangely, Cherokee County for the most part has been a one-party county. For many years, actually since the Civil War in the 1860s, Cherokee County only elected Democrats to office.

But since about 1990, races in Cherokee County have been settled in the Republican primary, so local political battles have pitted Republican against Republican in often bitter and divisive contests.

My husband, Harry Johnston, has been in local politics since 1996 when he ran his first race seeking a seat on the Cherokee County School Board. He lost that election in a tough and contentious fight.

Thankfully, he got appointed to the Cherokee County Planning and Zoning Board after that, where he served for several years and found his political calling so to speak in helping to slow down growth. Then, when a seat on the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners opened up, he decided to run for election to serve in that role.

He ran in a field of five candidates

and made it to the runoff. During the runoff, all the other candidates endorsed my husband’s opponent and that too was a tough battle. But at the end of the day, he won.

He served on the Board of Commissioners for 14 years before being defeated in 2014.

But thanks to encouragement from some of his key supporters, in 2018 he decided to run for commission chair and won a tight race, going on to secure a second term four years later.

In all, he has run political races 11 times, won nine times, and lost twice. Over those years and those elections we have learned many lessons.

And when I say we, I can assure you that it hits me just as hard as it does him. Even winning can be tough, because there are always deep feelings on both sides. And I think these political battles are even tougher on spouses.

This may seem strange, but I am glad we have lost some. Because if we had not lost some, we would not know how difficult that is. We would not appreciate the wins as much.

Most of all, I think that losing has made Harry a better public servant. We have both learned that listening to people, understanding their issues, and caring about the outcomes is of paramount importance.

Because Harry is in politics I usually do not write on the subject and mostly try to keep my thoughts to myself. But right now, I believe that it is so

We’re All Gonna’ Be Alright

God does like jelly!

He will use anything, including Smuckers, to remind us that we will be alright if we seek His counsel and comfort. We are okay if we live to love others, give what we can, and turn folks toward Him by our actions. And we should all remember it doesn’t matter how we vote or if we are liberal or conservative; it is how we live.

Jelly Roll sang,

“I know one day we’ll see the other side

The pain’ll wash away In the holy water tide

And we’re all gonna’ be alright.”

“I know I can’t be the only one who’s holding on for dear life

But God knows, I know

When it’s all said and done

I am not okay

But it’s all gonna’ be alright.” *

We are here on earth for a minute in time. And we waste a bunch of it. How much time do we spend on anger, selfishness, resentment, and the useless spreading of it all. How much energy do we use to either heal

or cause additional conflict?

No, somedays we are not okay, but with faith, we endure to get alright. There are times when it is a struggle to find tomorrow. Some folks can wear a mask of happiness, but God knows the suffering and can heal when we are not okay.

If we can find the patience and the will to use our time here wisely and resolve to be more compassionate and less judgmental, we will be better than okay.

If we, as Americans, choose unity over division and brotherhood over bias, then we will be more than just alright. We will be a united, thriving community. For so long, many of us have viewed life through only political lenses. We have been consumed by it. Some have let it break friendships and separate family members. What a waste of love, joy, and precious moments. Do we really think we will be fine if we only see folks through conservative or liberal lenses? The only way we will be alright is how God views us. How did we spend our minutes here? What will our legacy be?

important that we try to heal the hate and divisiveness in our country I felt compelled to speak out.

My weekly devotional recently asked the question of how we can make room for mercy amid a contentious and divided political atmosphere.

Jesus told us to love our neighbor as ourselves, and that means the Red, Blue, and Purple neighbors.

Recently, my 6-year-old granddaughter told her mother that she didn’t want to play with a little friend who had been invited for a play date. My daughter explained the Golden Rule to her.

My granddaughter thought about if for a while, and said, all right, she would play with her, but she would have one rule, that the other little girl could only play with her very best toys. That is what we all need to do right now, give freely of our very best selves.

I was reminded recently by my devotional that we have great political freedom to elect our leaders, but we also have an eternal mandate to choose our behavior toward those the world would have us to disparage.

I pray as we move forward postelection that we can put the hate and divisiveness aside and united together strive for peace on earth.

Rebecca Johnston is a lifelong Cherokee County resident and former managing editor of The Cherokee Tribune.

After the memorial service for Connie, a dear lady who lived down the street, I talked with her daughter. I reminded her that we all leave a gift when we depart this place. Someone will remember one thing about us that will carry on.

I said, “When I think of your mother, I recall her laughter! It’s the first thing I remember when I hear her name.”

What is the first thing one will recall when your name is mentioned? I don’t think it will be Republican or Democrat, but rather the memory of how you overcame okay to be alright.

If you are struggling through any life event, turn on the radio and listen to Jelly Roll as you roll into the church to grab your jelly donut.

You, too, will be alright.

* I Am Not Okay, written by Jelly Roll, Ashley Gorley, Casey Brown, Jason Deford, & Taylor Phillips

Lynn Gendusa’s latest book is “Southern Comfort: Stories of Family, Friendship, Fiery Trials, and Faith.” She can be reached at www. lynngendusa.com.

Johnston

Gendusa

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Trump won, no thanks to Washington Republicans

DEAR EDITOR:

Thank God Trump won, but he won, no thanks to Washington Republicans! As a lifelong Republican I’ve always been stunned at the lack of imagination, the temerity and stupidity of the Republican Leadership in Washington.

I could list dozens of examples, but will confine this letter to two issues that the Republicans just couldn’t seem to explain. The much vaunted “Border” bill the Democrats claimed was so tough, it would solve every border problem, and the repealing of Roe v Wade.

First, the Border Bill wasn’t a border bill, it was an illegal alien and amnesty bill that, among other things; (1) MANDATED that 5,000 illegals PER DAY would be allowed in before the Border Patrol would stop anyone from entering (that figure should be zero, not 5,000). (2) Would make catch and release (into the country) the LAW OF THE LAND. (3) Would MANDATE work permits for illegals. (4) Would MANDATE taxpayer funded lawyers for each illegal alien. (5) MANDATED DEI training for all current border agents. (6) MANDATED payments of billions of dollars to sanctuary cities and Non-Governmental Organizations (the NGO’s are currently processing illegals, what could they possibly do with that new money?)

That’s right, the Democrats, the Media and Kamala all lied to us about this bill. Speaking of lying, her whole campaign was a lie, from working at McDonalds to calling Trump Hitler, after racist, antisemite, Russian asset and white supremist did not catch on. Don’t believe you were lied to…read the bill (HR 815).

Second, repealing Roe v Wade; Ruth Bader Ginsburg was troubled with the way it was decided in 1973. By nominating Justices that interpreted the constitution as written, Trump took the abortion decision out of the hands of 9 judges in Washington and gave that power to the people in all 50 states, where it belongs. And to date, ABORTIONS ARE ALLOWED in all 50 states, some restricted to life of mother, but others allow abortions up to day of birth!

Thankfully, Kamala Harris was so woefully lacking in the skills necessary to be president, that despite the incompetence of the Republicans, her acting and body language lessons and a “Hollywood Production” of a campaign, the good people of America saw her for what she is…an empty pant suit phony!! Think about it, both she and her campaign of joy, were so phony, so contrived, they made professional wrestling look authentic.

Now that we dodged that bullet, it will be up to us to serve notice on the Republicans that we expect them to DO SOMETHING with the power we gave them and clean house in Washington, or BE FIRED in two years…no excuses, do something or go home!

Conrad Quagliaroli Woodstock

Thank you liberals

DEAR EDITOR:

The results of the recent presidential election were a resounding mandate from the majority of the American people in both the popular and the Electoral College vote. Regardless of what the election deniers and detractors say, the “We the People have spoken and they spoke loudly!” Interestingly, the American economy responded dramatically and positively even before the markets opened after the election. This election was good for everyone and was a positive prediction of good news for the United States and the world.

Among the more reassuring statistics surrounding the election is the fact that those college educated white women who were forecast to refuse to vote for common sense did not make a difference. I always suspected that there were more smart strong women than those outliers. Additionally, and more encouraging, after many years, young men and ethnic communities realized that there was an alternative to the liberal campaign promises that had been used for years and were never kept only to be marched out for the next election. Many diverse groups decided that it was time to turn to a proven leader with a proven track record, and they voted for President-elect Trump. He had proven that he could contribute his business acumen and love of country to the running of the country with great success. Then, regardless of the bogus lawsuits, lies, Russian hoax, outright cheating and other obstacles, the American public

Thank you Cherokee Republicans

DEAR EDITOR:

realized that they were better off four years ago when he left office and Bidenomics was a farce. As much as I hate to quote the likes of Bill Clinton, “It was the economy, stupid” and American common sense prevailed.

So, while the A-list celebrities, pundits, pollsters, lying governors and arch liberals lick their wounds, scratch their heads and wonder what went wrong, the blame game starts. They immediately start calling names and pointing fingers and blaming others like a circular firing squad. Senator Bernie Sanders stated the crux of the matter when he said, ”While Democratic leadership defends the status quo, the American people are angry and want change. And they’re right.”

True to form, Democratic National Committee Chairman Jamie Harrison immediately denounced Senator Sanders’ comments as “Straight up BS.” Liberals should remember “doing the same thing and expecting different results is a sure sign of stupidity.” Fortunately, with that kind of attitude in liberal leadership roles it looks like a bright future for the conservative and common sensed arm of American politics. Georgia’s own Zell Miller may have forecast this election years ago when he stated something to the effect that “He didn’t leave the Democratic party, they left him.”

To our new partners in the MAGA conservative movement, welcome aboard and thank you for your common sense support.

Quentin M. Thomas Woodstock

As a volunteer with the Cherokee Democrats, I want to thank the Republicans in our county. You see, on Sunday October 13th, over 40 volunteers fanned out across the county to place 500 Kamala signs legally along roads and intersections in the county. The volunteers have been working tirelessly to let voters in the county know they have a choice. Needless to say, there was a level of happy exhaustion and tiredness after the run. Within 24 hours, almost all 500 signs were missing or destroyed and many were replaced with Trump signs. At first, we were annoyed — we thought “what a bunch of juveniles to be so triggered that they resorted to vandalism and theft they must really be worried.” But was it ? Then within the next 24 hours, we realized that replacing the signs meant more donations to the Harris campaign. And, Democratic volunteers became even more energized: sign-ups for campaigning events rose sharply and there was a heightened sense of determination. It was like July 21st all over again. So, a heartfelt thanks to Cherokee Republicans for the extra boost to our motivation and energy!

Pat Fagan Woodstock

Tell Cherokee what you think

Letters to the editor may be submitted by email to editor@ ledgernews.com, or by mail to 521 e. Main St., Canton, gA 30114. All letters must be typed and include a phone number to verify authenticity. We reserve the right to reject publication. We reserve the right to edit for libel and brevity. The editor and publisher reserve the right to publish a sampling of letters that reflect an accurate representation of those submitted on the same subject. The content and accuracy of all information contained in a letter to the editor is the responsibility of the letter-writer. Letters must not exceed 450 words.

Editor’s note: The Soapbox is a forum for residents to sound off about topics of interest. All comments are those of the callers and do not reflect the views of the newspaper. We welcome the contributions of our readers and encourage respectful and lively debate. The Ledger-news reserves the right not to publish Soapbox items based on libel or other considerations the editor and publisher deem valid. comments may be edited for brevity. Please keep comments as brief as possible. Lengthy opinions should be addressed in a letter to the editor. To submit a Soapbox, call 770928-1055 or email editor@ ledgernews.com.

♦ Well Cherokee County, our roads are crumbling and they’re maxed out. It’s time to stop letting building permits. As we travel down Highway 92, and see new apartment complexes, and the roads are already crammed with cars…hello? Are you representing me? I don’t think so.

♦ The election is over. America has spoken. Congratulations, President Trump. Make America Great Again.

♦ Why is Trump blaming Kamala Harris for the open border situation? He had four years to fix that problem and he pulled funding for the border wall. The border has been an issue for many years. Typical Trump, blaming someone else for his failures.

♦ Based on results from Trump’s first years in office it appeared that he was not good at determining and selecting who should be in his cabinet. Looking for 100% loyalty without question is fraught with failure. Pompeo is our most competent and experienced former official, West Point graduate, CIA Director, Secretary of State, small successful business owner, and a solid Christian. We need him somewhere in the new administration regardless of what the politicos want and say.

♦ In the spirit of unity and bipartisanship the Republicans should follow through on the Democrats platform of eliminating the senate filibuster and expanding the Supreme Court.

♦ If there were more vasectomies, there would be fewer abortions.

♦ Hey Cherokee County schools, your new Free Home Elementary has a sign out front that’s going to be visible from only one direction on 372. To compound the silliness, you’ve put a spotlight on the back side that can never be seen from anywhere, but it does shine into the eyes of people driving on 372. Can you fix that?

♦ The Stalinist court trial against Trump was not legitimate. I guess the next step for Democrats would be to plant some drugs on President Trump, or murder someone and try to pin it on him.

♦ Trump’s re-election does not surprise me, as people have told me all over the world when I traveled, that the US is a racist, sexist, violent, and vulgar bunch of bully rednecks with guns...the Ugly American. Trump leads a cult of the least least educated and least compassionate among us.

♦ I didn’t think I would, but I love the new Ledger Monthly. Thank you. The only thing that would be kind of fun as an addition to it would be kind of like a horoscope. But honestly I just love your new stuff.

♦ I can’t believe how close the race was, how many people voted for Kamala. Everybody knows she’s just a stooge. She’s a frontman for Obama to be running the country. He destroyed it once and he’ll destroy it again.

♦ If we look back at a few elections, Americans swing back and forth wanting an administration to give them the life they think they deserve. Bush (R) — Clinton (D) — Bush (R) — Obama (D) — Trump (”R”) — Biden (D) — Trump (”R”). I’m reminded of the old adage — If the problem follows you wherever you go, the problem may be you.

♦ Say what? The Democrats could have my vote if I could hear one, one of them say, “We must save our republic.” Not the “democracy.” We have a republic, that is ruled by law. The Democrats don’t want to hear that. All I can say is God bless and save our Republic. A good

start would be term and age limits for Congress and judiciary. It’s a proven fact the older we get, the poorer listeners we are.

♦ While the comedy industry is excited about the new political season, let’s just try the stuff that’s worked so well in the past — the day after the election, the 10 wealthiest people in our country made another $64B — our wealthiest individuals and companies sincerely need more tax breaks. None of this profit is going to make it to working people.

♦ Shame on you for leaving a dead deer on Cokers Chapel Road, and then you have the nerve to cut his antlers off.

♦ In 8 years Social Security will become insolvent, 4 years if Trump keeps his tax cut promises. The only ways to save it are to add income or reduce benefits. Adding income would require raising or eliminating the payroll tax cap, exposing the very wealthy to a tax that their accountants and lawyers cannot reduce or make go away, just like us workers. That’s why the billionaires abandoned Democrats, preferring to see those of us who paid for other people’s retirements for decades, get cheated. Just watch.

♦ To the fella in the red SUV who stole the Trump sign on N. Arnold Mill Rd at 3:11 on 10/24 cameras captured you from both sides of the road, Schleprock.

♦ This time will be different, right? Trump kept none of his campaign promises in 2016, only giving tax cuts to the wealthiest while throwing crumbs to the middle class. January’s tax cut legislation must contain removal of income taxes on Social Security, overtime pay, and tips, as promised, BEFORE the usual

sops to corporations and the wealthiest. No excuses, we will be watching closely.

♦ In my mail Nov. 6, 2024, I received the Sept. 11, 2024 issue of the Ledger-News.

♦ Well…looks like we’ll find out if Fascism can make America great.

♦ To all of the Democrats who are wondering how to change minds moving forward after Trump’s victory, remember the wise words of comedian Ron White: “You can’t fix stupid.” So, don’t even bother trying. It’s a waste of time.

♦ On a recent trip driving to Savannah, we saw first-hand some of the damage from the recent hurricanes and/or the tornadoes they spawned with mile upon endless mile of downed trees along I-16. It will be an enormous clean-up effort. Also, high praise to the county crews who keep I-16 beautifully mown, trimmed and clear of litter.

♦ The father, FBI, Sheriff, and school all made mistakes regarding the Barrow County school shooting. But only the father is being criminally charged. Laws for thee but not for me.

♦ I am amazed at adults in the Costco gas lines who stand in the drive lanes to pump gas. It is just as fast and much safer to have your gas cap facing the pump while filling your gas tank.

♦ Contributors to the Soapbox may reach more people of any political viewpoint by making a statement that is based on verifiable facts and reaches a conclusion by way of logic and reason.

♦ I saw something today I thought was extinct…a Cherokee County deputy pulling over a car down on the Wade Green Speedway…there’s hope for us after all…

DINING

Pizza restaurant headed to Woodstock’s historic train depot

Staff reports

The historic train depot in downtown Woodstock is reopening with a new restaurant after it was closed for over a year due to road realignment.

Fire & Stone Italian Pizza, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic pizza and Italian dishes, is slated to open in late spring or early summer 2025, announced Cheri Morris of Morris & Fellows, master developer of Woodstock Downtown and Woodstock City Center.

Morris said the restaurant is exactly the type of family-friendly casual dining concept desired for the city’s historic landmark, located at 251 E. Main St.

“The historic Woodstock Train Depot has been a local landmark for over a century, and the building’s transition from a working depot to a popular dining location symbolized Woodstock’s rebirth from a sleepy railroad town to a vital, energized small city,” Morris said. “Thanks to the city’s visionary leadership and thoughtful planning, today’s residents and visitors come to Woodstock for boutique shopping, dining, employment and a variety of housing options. A key goal of the city’s master plan was to retain Woodstock’s charm as it transformed. During this process, the historic train depot was carefully preserved, and it has become the fulcrum point between the extraordinarily successful Woodstock Downtown revitalization and the new Woodstock City Center project now underway. This one-of-akind historic property deserves a restaurant that can use its energy and I believe we have found that with Fire & Stone Italian Pizza.” Fire & Stone Italian Pizza, which

operates a restaurant in Peachtree Corners, has been serving customers for over three decades, offering fresh Italian fare created from cherished family recipes. The new location will feature a show kitchen and imported Italian pizza ovens in the dining area so patrons can watch the pizzas as they are handcrafted and baked to order. Diners will enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating on a new deck overlooking Depot Square — a new park in front of the train depot, and can top off a meal with fresh gelato served through the window of the Depot’s adjacent caboose.

“Both Woodstock Downtown and Woodstock City Center represent a generational opportunity to add retail, office, hotel, and critically-important parking and infrastructure to one of the most popular downtown destinations in Georgia,” said Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell. “The addition of Fire & Stone Italian Pizza in the historic Train Depot is a perfect fit for our city’s continued redevelopment.”

The historic train depot in downtown Woodstock.

Fire & Stone Italian Pizza

The restaurant’s pizzas are baked to order.

Husband-wife duo opens Thai restaurant in Woodstock

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

A new Thai restaurant has recently opened in the Towne Lake community in Woodstock.

Woodstock Thai Eatery is a venture by husband-and-wife owners Bon Sarharat and Dee Sudthasri. It officially opened Sept. 9, a year after the couple bought the space.

They spent that time working to rebrand and remodel the restaurant to better fit the vision for their space. The previous restaurant at the location was NaNa Thai Eatery. The couple worked under the NaNa Thai Eatery name while they worked out the name and vision for Woodstock Thai Eatery.

“My husband is a chef, and we wanted to run our own business under a new name and identity after we bought the building,” Sudthasri said. “NaNa Thai Eatery has a location in Marietta, so we wanted to have our own distinct identity. We did a little remodeling to the interior and exterior of the building, including the work done to the patio.”

The menu features a variety of soups, small plates, chef’s specials, rice and noodle meals, stir fried, curry, desserts, and various side dishes, all at various spice levels. The restaurant also has gluten free and vegan dishes.

Drinks offered include soda, S. Pellegrino, Shirley Temple, and traditional Thai iced tea and Thai iced coffee.

“When we cook our food, (Sarharat) prioritizes the freshness, cleanliness, and healthiness of the dishes,” Sudthasri said.

Sarharat moved from Thailand to Georgia in 2011 to further his culinary career and study culinary arts. He earned a culinary associate degree from Chattahoochee Technical College in 2020. Sudthasri moved from Thailand to Georgia in 2014. They met shortly after and got married in 2018 in Marietta.

Both have worked in the restaurant business for over 10 years, Sudthasri said.

They plan to move to Woodstock in the near future to further acclimate themselves into the Towne Lake and Woodstock communities. They also have not ruled out opening a second location in the future.

“Woodstock is a growing city with a lot of potential for great restaurants, it also seems like a great place to live,” Sudthasri said. “I love the people that live here and it’s just a great city. We felt the Towne Lake area needed a Thai-owned and operated Thai-focused restaurant to help bring the taste of Thailand to the community.”

Woodstock Thai Eatery, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 110, is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday for lunch and from 5-10 p.m. for dinner. The restaurant is open for dinner only from 3-10 p.m. Saturday and from 3-9 p.m. Sunday. Woodstock Thai Eatery is closed on Monday.

For more information, visit woodstockthaieatery.com and tinyurl.com/bdf8wdb6.

In WDSTk Woodstock Thai Eatery owners Bon Sarharat and Dee Sudthasri (center), stand with Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell (right), and Petcharaphon, Sarharat’s mother (left) at the ribbon cutting event Sept. 9.

Special/Woodstock Thai eatery

Chef Bon Sarharat

Special/Woodstock Thai eatery Woodstock Thai Eatery is open in the Towne Lake community.

Special/Woodstock Thai eatery Woodstock Thai Eatery serves shrimp and pork dumplings.

Delivering holiday hope

Annual Ball Ground Christmas parade supports Toys for Tots

By Joseph Bennett

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

Ball Ground’s annual Christmas parade starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. If you plan to attend, City Manager Eric Wilmarth has some advice for you: “Get here early!”

He’d also like you to bring a newly purchased, unwrapped toy. The official name of the event is March of the Toys Parade, and this is the 11th year the Ball Ground community has rallied to support Toys for Tots, a charity founded by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to provide Christmas toys for underprivileged children.

Based on turnouts in recent years, Wilmarth expects up to 10,000 people to line Ball Ground’s streets when the parade steps off. That’s more than three times the city’s population.

How does a tiny town in the hills of north Georgia put on a major annual event that draws participants and celebrity guests from multiple states? The answer is Tim Cavender.

A Ball Ground native and former city council member, Cavender was 14 years old when he reluctantly agreed to play Santa Claus at a Cherokee High School event.

“I said ‘absolutely not’ when they asked me,” he recalls. “I had no desire to do that.”

But eventually he was badgered into putting on a rented red suit and beard, and his life was never the same after that. “I thought I’d get all kinds of teasing at school, but that’s not what happened. Those high school kids turned into children. They didn’t tease. They loved it.”

Cavender loved it too. He bought a Santa suit at Sears Roebuck and has been portraying the jolly old elf ever since at community functions, charity events, social gatherings and televised productions. For 10 years, he was the official Santa for holiday events at the Georgia governor’s residence. In 2014, Cavender was elected to the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. As of 2023, the membership includes 106 St. Nick portrayers, including actors Ed Asner and Edmund Gwenn and artist Haddon Sundblom, who created the iconic Coca-Cola Santa. For the past 25 years, Cavender’s wife, Peg, has performed with him as Mrs. Claus.

The Ball Ground parade was born when Cavender, who had been headlining community holiday events, proposed the idea to his city manager. Wilmarth agreed, and Cavender charged ahead.

“I thought something like this would start small,” Wilmarth said, “but it took off right away. Tim had developed a network of people who understood these events, and that helped a lot.”

As of mid-November, more than 70 groups and performers from multiple states had registered to participate in the 2024 parade. According to the parade

website, past parades have featured the Griswold Truckster from the 2015 movie “Vacation,” the Oscar Myer Weinermobile, a replica of the 1966 Batmobile, and Scooby Doo’s Mystery Machine, as well as the Atlanta Falcon Cheerleaders, the cartoon Georgia Tech Goldrush Dancers, the Georgia State Pantherettes, as well as dance groups, floats, tractors, antique cars and other performers.

The parade also draws a large number of cosplayers — people who dress as fictional or fantasy characters. Most are welcome to march, but there’s one exception. The parade rules state: “DO NOT DRESS LIKE SANTA OR MRS. CLAUS….this confuses the children! Anyone dressed as Santa will not be permitted to participate in the parade.” In other words, Tim and Pam Cavender are sufficient Santas.

They will be featured riding aboard a sleigh that was built in Pennsylvania by Amish craftsmen. Originally, the Cavenders rode in a sleigh mounted on a truck bed, but Wilmarth worried that his star performers were at risk climbing on and off the vehicle. After some research Cavender identified a company to build the new sleigh.

“I told them I wanted a red sleigh — a two-seater — with green leather seats on wheels,” Cavender says. “When they delivered it, I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was.”

The sleigh has removable wheels that

allow it to be towed in the parade, but it also has runners which would allow it to go dashing through any snow that should happen to arrive in Georgia.

In the weeks before the Christmas parade, Toys for Tots collection boxes are delivered to Ball Ground merchants. Boxes will also line streets on the parade route, so spectators can drop off their donations as they arrive. Wilmarth says the town doesn’t keep track of how many toys it receives, but last year more than 100 bicycles were delivered to the Toys for Tots warehouse in Marietta.

Many parade spectators arrive several hours early to stake out good viewing locations, interact with participants and enjoy the festivities. After the Friday night parade, Ball Ground will host a two-day holiday mart.

Wilmarth estimates it costs Ball Ground about $10,000 to stage the parade, but “the economic boost our town gets pays for that several times over.”

“We have businesses that locate here because of this event,” he said.

He believes the parade and other initiatives have contributed to the growth of the town’s population, which has increased from about 700 in 2000 to more than 3,000.

Tim Cavender is pleased that he and Pam are delivering economic gifts to their hometown, but that’s not the best part, he says. “We do this for the children. We’re

happy to give good people a chance to enjoy a great event and to give back at the same time. We’re fortunate to be able to help the less fortunate.”

For more information about Ball Ground’s Christmas parade, visit https://www.marchofthetoysparade.com.

Special

Ball Ground’s March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots draws a large number of cosplayers.

Special

Tim and Pam Cavender as Santa and Mrs. Claus.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CHEROKEE COUNTY

NOV 22-JAN 4

MAGIC OF LIGHTS AT DIXIE SPEEDWAY

Magic of Lights is returning to Dixie Speedway from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4 at 150 Dixie Drive near Woodstock. This is a drive-thru holiday lights experience.

Hours are 6-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6-10 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Standard vehicle admission at the gate is $30 per car weekdays and $35 on weekends. Discounts are available for buying tickets in advance online. For tickets and more information, visit https://magicoflights.com/locations/ woodstock-ga/

NOV 23-DEC 31

HOLIDAY LIGHTS OF CANTON

Holiday Lights of Canton is Nov. 23 through Dec. 31 at Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway near Canton. This is a drive-thru Christmas lights experience.

Hours are 6-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Admission is $20 per car. Once entered, you may go through as many times as you would like. The season pass is $50 and valid for every night.

To buy tickets, visit https://holidaylightsofga.com/canton.

NOV 29-DEC 30

HOLIDAY LIGHTS OF WOODSTOCK

Holiday Lights of Woodstock is at Hobgood Park Nov. 29 through Dec. 30 at 6688 Bells Ferry Road near Woodstock. This is a walk-through holiday light dis-

play in the park.

Hours are 6-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The event is closed Dec. 24 and 25.

Admission is $10 per person 12 and older and free for visitors under 12. Season passes are available for $25 and are valid for every night.

To buy tickets, visit https://holidaylightsofga.com/woodstock.

DEC 2

WALESKA CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

The city of Waleska is hosting its annual Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. Dec. 2, at City Hall, 8891 Fincher Road, to ring in the holiday season. Santa Claus will make an appearance there.

DEC 6-7

HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES

History Cherokee’s Holiday Tour of Homes is 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 6 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 7.

Tour locations will include the Jones Building, Southernite Interiors, Bill and Tina Kell house, McCanless-Jones-Morgan house, Jones-Johnston house, DickJohnston house, and Meriwether house. Shuttle buses will be available.

Tickets are $25 per person if purchased by Dec. 4. After that, tickets will be available for $30 and can be purchased at the event. Tickets include admission to the Cherokee County History Center.

To buy tickets or for more information visit historycherokee.org/holidayhomes-tour.

DEC 6

MARCH OF THE TOYS PARADE

The annual March of the Toys Parade

is returning to downtown Ball Ground at 7 p.m. Dec. 6. This is one of the largest Christmas parades in north Georgia. The parade features the Creekview High School Marching Band, dance groups, princesses, superheroes, floats, tractors, antique cars and more. And, Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a visit to town. Attendees to the parade are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. For more information visit www.marchofthetoysparade.com.

DEC 6-24

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Woodstock Arts’ annual production of A Christmas Carol returns Dec. 6-24. This musical adaptation written by Broadway’s Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens brings Charles Dickens’ story of Ebeneezer Scrooge to life. This show is recommended for ages 8 and up.

File/Shannon ballew

In this 2023 photo, a large monster truck with an American flag is on display in Christmas lights at Magic of Lights at Dixie Speedway.

Special

Santa and Mrs. Claus make an appearance every year at Ball Ground’s March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots.

Woodstock Arts

From left: Claire Z. as Ensemble, Kate Phillip as Ensemble, Darrell Meek as Scrooge, Justin Roth as the Ghost of Christmas Present, in Woodstock Arts’ 2023 production of ‘A Christmas Carol.’

FOOD PANTRY: Encompass Ministries offers a food pantry, career coaching, budgeting help and more. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday and Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The pantry hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. No appointments are required, but reservations can be made. For more information, call 770-591-4730. Encompass Ministries is located at 6551 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock.

CLINIC: Encompass Ministries hosts the Bethesda Community Clinic mobile

EVENTS

From 18

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, plus a sensory friendly performance at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 14, and two final performances 2:30 p.m. Dec. 23 and 24. Performances are at the Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main St. in Woodstock. Tickets are $19 — $20 online and $22 — $23 at the door. For tickets and more information, visit https:// woodstockarts.org/events/acc.

DEC 7

REINDEER RUN FOR THE CHILDREN

The Service League of Cherokee County’s 21st Annual Reindeer Run for the Children is Dec. 7 at Etowah River Park,600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton.

The Fun Run will begin at 8:00 a.m. The 5K and 10K will begin at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $40 for the 5K and 10K and $30 for the Fun Run. Registrations should be completed by Nov. 29. Proceeds will go to programs that help children in need in Cherokee County.

To sign up or for more information visit https://serviceleague.net/fundraisers/ run-for-the-children.

DEC 8

WOODSTOCK CHRISTMAS

JUBILEE AND PARADE OF LIGHTS

Woodstock’s annual Christmas parade is set to start at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8 in downtown Woodstock. The parade route starts at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, proceeds to Main Street and ends at Sam’s Club near State Road 92. After the parade, the festival in The Park at City Center will offer shopping, DJ music, free cupcake decorating and other treats, and a reading of the Polar Express. Santa will help light the 30-foot Christmas tree. For more information visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com.

DEC 12

THE NUTCRACKER

The Woodstock School of Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13 and

COMMUNITY EVENTS

ONGOING EVENTS

unit 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the third Friday of every month in their parking lot, 6551 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock. Free health care services are provided, including physicals, women’s health, lab work, blood pressure checks and sick care. No COVID-19 related services. No appointments necessary. For more information and other locations, visit www. bcccherokee.com.

OPTIMIST CLUB: Hickory Flat Optimist Club meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at Family Tradition in Hickory Flat, 7830 Hickory Flat Highway

10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive in Waleska. To reserve tickets or for more information email woodstockballet@yahoo.com.

DEC 14

HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS PARADE

The Holly Jolly Christmas Parade is at 11 a.m. Dec. 14 in Holly Springs. The parade, presented by the Holly Springs Optimist Club, will begin traveling south on Holly Springs Parkway at its intersection with Mountain Brook Drive. It will then turn left onto Hickory Road, right on to Palm Street, then left onto Betty Barrett Way, continue through the Hickory Road roundabout and end inside the Town Center Project.

After the Christmas parade, there will be a celebration at the Historic Train Depot where there will be free pictures with Santa (bring your own camera) and sweet treats, compliments of the Holly Springs Optimist Club from Honeysuckle Bakery. For more information, visit www.hollyspringsga.us/christmasparade.

DEC 14

MERRY MARKET AND CANTON CHRISTMAS PARADE

The 37th Annual Merry Market is noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 14 at Cannon Park, 130 East Main St. in downtown Canton. There will be shopping with small business vendors, visits with Santa, live entertainment, arts and crafts, food and more. Proceeds from the market will benefit the Canton Optimist Club.

At 6 p.m., the Canton Christmas Parade will begin in downtown Canton.

DEC 20-22

THE NUTCRACKER OF CHEROKEE COUNTY

Dancentre South’s “The Nutcracker of Cherokee County” is running Dec. 2022 at the KSU Marietta Dance Theater, 860 Rossbacher Way in Marietta. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20; 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21; and 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 22. Tickets are from $25 to $30 for adults and $17 to $22 for children 12 and under. To buy tickets or for information visit dancentresouth.com.

near Woodstock. Please call 678-4095940 for more information.

CONCERT BAND: Do you play a musical instrument? Are you an adult? Southern Winds Concert Band is a nonprofit community band for musicians of all levels. The band rehearses Thursday afternoons at First Baptist Church Hwy. 92 in Woodstock. No auditions — just come and play. For more information visit www.swcb.org.

GARDEN: The Sixes Garden Club meets 1-3 p.m. the fourth Monday of

every month at Canton First Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road in Canton. The group is for any level gardener. Yearly membership is $25. For information on meetings contact dawnmmoss64@yahoo.com with the subject: Garden Club.

AMERICAN LEGION: The South Cherokee County American Legion Post 316, meets every 3rd Thursday at 7 p.m. at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. Membership dues are $30 per year. For more information, call Commander Julian Windham at 706-726-2754.

In this 2021 photo, visitors walk in through the tunnel at Holiday Lights of Woodstock, formerly called Holiday Lights of Hope, at Hobgood Park.

File/Shannon ballew

LOCAL COLUMNIST|WILLIAM LAKO

Prepare for 2025: Key changes to 401(k) and IRA rules under SECURE 2.0

Take a close look at your retirement plans — 2025 is set to be a big year for changes! The SECURE 2.0 Act introduced several updates to traditional and Roth IRAs and 401(k) plans, with many being phased in over the next few years, including some in 2025.

Let’s start with enhanced catchup contributions for workers aged 60 to 63. For more than 20 years, employees aged 50 and older have been allowed to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k) plans to help compensate for earlier years of lower savings. In 2025, plan participants aged 60 to 63 will be able to contribute the greater of $10,000 or 150 percent of the 2024 catch-up contribution limit, indexed for inflation. Remember, the SECURE 2.0 Act passed in 2022, and the IRS didn’t set the 2024 catch-up limits until November 2023, meaning in 2025, workers aged 60-63 can contribute an additional $11,250 to their 401(k) plans, bringing their total contribution to at least $34,250. The IRS will officially announce the 2025 lim -

its within the next month. This amount also excludes any employer matching contributions, so there’s significant potential to save even more.

For younger employees, SECURE 2.0 generally requires new 401(k) plans established after Dec. 29, 2022, to automatically enroll employees at 3 percent of their salary, unless they opt out. Additionally, the default contribution rate must increase by 1 percent each year until it reaches a minimum of 10 percent, but no more than 15 percent of compensation. Automatic enrollment has been shown to increase participation in plans by 50 percent and can triple participation rates among new hires.

SECURE 2.0 also benefits employees who change jobs frequently early in their careers. One of the 2025 provisions allows plan providers to offer automatic portability, enabling employees to roll over their retirement accounts to their new employer’s plan. Currently, plans

Tour Our Beautifully Decorated Model Homes

From December 1-15, we invite you to explore our festive model homes, beautifully styled for the holidays. Discover how our open, single-level designs create the perfect setting for warm, inviting gatherings, with plenty of room to host and celebrate with ease.

Don’t miss your chance to join us for Epcon’s Holiday Tour of Homes.

Scan this QR code for a list of participating locations and additional details.

CHAMPIONS

Creekview gets redemption, beats Lassiter for state title

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Creekview softball conquered Columbus and won its second state championship on Saturday, Nov. 2, defeating Lassiter 8-0 in the title game and earning redemption over the Trojans.

The Grizzlies (26-9), battled within Region 6AAAAA for their championship, against a Lassiter team they split the regular season series with. The Trojans were the region champions.

“We were ecstatic,” Creekview coach Jennifer Maloney said. “The season started off slow, and then about halfway through, we started to click and play like we knew we should. From there, we got on a roll and that confidence built. The work we put in all season long came to fruition. When that final out happened, we just saw that we did it. We put it together as a team.”

The Grizzlies, in a new classification, secured their second fast-pitch title in seven years, with the last one, coincidentally, coming over another Cobb County and region opponent, Allatoona.

However, Saturday marked the program’s second championship in a calendar year after its slow-pitch team won this past spring.

“For the players, It’s the ultimate goal to win that state championship,” Maloney said. “At Creekview, we actually won the slow-pitch one as well. For our program to have a slow and fast-pitch state championship in a year, it’s just an amazing feeling because this group has been spectacular.”

Region 6AAAAA and Cherokee County

were featured throughout the tournament in Columbus between Creekview, Lassiter and River Ridge. The Grizzlies and Trojans met three times in the playoffs and five times overall this season.

“We saw River Ridge before that, so it was two teams in our region, which kind of shows the talent in our region, and even the talent here in Cherokee County,” Maloney said. “There was a familiarity, but I think both teams were just really competing for every out, which made it a highstrung game.”

Creekview took the state championship decisively over Lassiter as Jesse Roland

pitched a five-inning shutout. She struck out one batter and allowed six hits and one walk on 71 pitches.

Seven different Grizzlies notched at least one hit, with Melanie Brundage and Caroline Shultz leading the lineup with three. Brooklynn Wells doubled and knocked in a team-best three RBIs.

Shultz, a freshman, finished 3-for-3 in the title-clinching game after being unexpectedly inserted into the lineup as an injury replacement.

Pitching was a strength for Creekview throughout its run in Columbus. The Grizzlies surrendered just 14 runs across six

games, an average of 2.3 runs per contest as Roland and Jaidyn Griffeth controlled the games.

“Our pitching staff was absolutely lights out that entire tournament,” Maloney said. “Our pitching was getting ahead in counts and dominating. Our defense had their backs when balls were put in play, and our offense came to play.”

Creekview scored early in nearly every game, providing a welcomed confidence boost to its pitching and defense in the middle and later innings. The offense, which scored 37 runs in Columbus, piled on late to put the games away.

Maloney said seniors Kate English, Emily Pettit and Anna Kate Turner played pivotal roles with their leadership and play, both on the diamond and in the dugout. Even when Creekview dropped its first game to Lassiter and had its back against the wall, those veteran presences put the Grizzlies over the top.

“Our team just had a ton of confidence,” Maloney said. “We lost that game to Lassiter, and then we had to come back through the loser’s bracket and play them twice to beat them. At that point, we knew what they had and they knew what we had. We just had to go out and take care of business.”

Special

Creekview softball defeated Lassiter 8-0 to claim the 2024 Class AAAAA state championship.

Special Creekview softball’s state championship trophy.

Special

Creekview softball’s state championship sign.

SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY | STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Burnett wins title; Creekview snags fifth

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Malachi Burnett reached the pinnacle on Saturday, Nov. 9, as he secured first place at the Class AAAAA cross country state championship meet by nearly 30 seconds.

The Creekview standout was third overall in 2023, but after his first-place run at sectionals, Saturday’s win in Carrollton seemed inevitable. Burnett crossed the finish line in 15:50.11.

“Malachi had a great day,” Grizzlies coach Kirk Sharich said. “He went out and never looked back. It’s what he has done all year. He is so consistent. He runs with so much heart and determination, and it was fun to watch.”

In the team standings, Creekview was the top Cherokee County finisher at fifth overall, with Woodstock making the cut at 24th.

“We were hoping for Top 3, but we just didn’t quite make it,” Sharich said. “The good thing is we have everyone coming back, and they all have experience. We only had 17 points between our first two guys, which is great. We just missed out on the podium.”

Behind Burnett, Ryan Chase finished 19th at 17:16.69. Thatcher Lamp (18:19.19), Ryan Pattillo (18:22.01) and Micah Owens (18:22.01) gave the Grizzlies five runners in the Class AAAAA Top 70.

River Ridge had one runner place in Nate Spivey (18:57.73), who took 107th. Woodstock put two runners in the Top 100 between William Barsh (83rd) at 18:32.28) and Lincoln May (96th) at 18:42.28.

On the girls’ side, Creekview finished eighth overall with 230 points. Amaya Nebel was its top runner, crossing the

line at 21:20.83 for 24th place, followed by Madeleine Moss (21:46.35) in 38th.

“To think we would get eighth at state, runner up in the region and win the county, I thought the girls really ran well,” Sharich said. “Finishing eighth, I would have never dreamed that when the season started. We really came a long way and had a lot of kids improve.”

River Ridge was 12th with 346 points, led by Isabella Kennison (21:33.51) in 30th and Alyssa Roberts (21:57.32) in 44th.

In Class AAAAAA, Etowah came away with a sixth-place finish in the boys’ team standings.

The Eagles scored 225 points to place

behind champion Denmark (100), runner-up West Forsyth (132), third-place Harrison (153), fourth-place Carrollton (166) and fifth-place Brookwood (179).

Bo Colpeart led the way for the Etowah boys with a 16th-place finish and a time of 16 minutes, 55.32 seconds.

“They put the finishing touches on a great season with huge performances across the board, led by a Top 20 finish from Bo Colpaert,” Eagles coach Garret Hurlbert said. “They ran their most complete race at the exact right time. With a strong young core returning, we hope to build on this next year.”

In the Class AAAAAA girls’ race, Cher-

okee finished 15th and Etowah was 17th.

“The girls team, ravaged by injuries and sickness over the last couple weeks, fought their way through an incredibly difficult sectional to qualify for their seventh straight state appearance,” Hurlbert said. “With most of the varsity team returning next year we have high hopes for a big showing next season as they return to form after recovering from these injuries.”

Cherokee’s Callie Cornelius led the way among Cherokee County runners in the AAAAAA girls’ individual standings with a 46th-place finish and a time of 21:23.29.

Special Creekview’s Malachi Burnett runs at the 2024 Class AAAAA state championship meet. Special

Etowah’s boys cross country team poses at the start line of the 2024 Class AAAAA state championship meet.

Special

Etowah’s girls cross country team poses at the start line of the 2024 Class AAAAA state championship meet.

County stars featured at GADC all-state game

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Seven Cherokee County seniors were selected to the 2024 Georgia Dugout Club (GADC) Fast-Pitch All-State Game at Truist Park.

The game was played on Saturday, Nov. 9, featuring players from five of the six Cherokee County high schools.

This year’s selections included Kate English (Creekview), Emily Pettit (Creekview), Brooke Beam (River Ridge), Emery Butler (River Ridge), Julia Moore (Sequoyah), Mac Pavese (Cherokee) and Isabella Eskew (Etowah).

English and Pettit were part of Creekview’s Class AAAAA state championship team this season, bringing the program its second fastpitch softball title in seven years and second championship in a calendar year after it won the slow-pitch crown this past spring.

“For the players, It’s the ultimate goal to win that state championship,” Grizzlies coach Jennifer Maloney said after they defeated Lassiter. “At Creekview, we actually won the slow-pitch one as well. For our program to have a slow and fast-pitch state championship in a year, it’s just an amazing feeling because this group has been spectacular.”

Both English, an Appalachian State commit, and Pettit, a Reinhardt commit, notched hits in the championship-clinching 8-0 win over Lassiter, with Pettit connecting on a third-inning RBI double.

River Ridge standouts Beam and Butler helped lead the Knights to third place in Columbus, with them narrowly falling to the eventual champion, Creekview. River Ridge beat East Paulding, Seckinger and Effingham County along the way.

The Knights made a statement early in Columbus as they blanked East Paulding 10-0 on Day 1 as Beam pitched a shutout in the circle. Beam, a Lipscomb commit, went all five innings with six strikeouts, no walks and just two hits allowed.

She added eight more strikeouts against Seckinger while crushing two home runs at the plate against Effingham County.

Butler notched hits in six of 10 postseason games, with her playoff best of three

CHEROKEE COUNTY GADC ALL-STATE SELECTIONS

kate english — creekview — UTL (Appalachian State)

emily Pettit — creekview — oF (reinhardt)

brooke beam — river ridge — P (Lipscomb)

emery butler — river ridge — oF

Julia moore — Sequoyah — P (young harris)

mac Pavese — cherokee — oF/1b (clemson)

Isabella eskew — etowah — SS (Unc-greensboro)

coming in the Game 1 win over Northgate.

The experience of Beam, Butler and the other Knights helped propel them in the playoffs.

“I think being there before helped,” coach Andrew Marinelli said after taking Game 3 over Northgate. “Anytime you get into a Game 3, there’s a lot of nerves, and whichever team can settle down and play softball first usually wins. I think the experience our girls have gotten over the last four or so years has helped.”

Sequoyah’s All-Star representative, Moore, is a Young Harris commit, who led the Chiefs to a 14-9 record this season. She helped coach Lisa Chapman, a member of the GADC Hall of Fame, reach the 500 career win milestone.

Pavese also had a hand in her coach, Tonya Carlisle, reaching the same 500-win milestone. The Clemson commit notched her 165th career hit this year on Aug. 21. She already had 2022 Cherokee County Player of the Year and 2023 All-County

first-team honors heading into the season, with more accolades soon to come.

Cherokee County’s final GADC AllState player, Eskew, was instrumental in Etowah’s return to the state tournament in 2024. She and the Eagles outdueled Colquitt County in Round 1 of the playoffs in a three-game series, with Eskew’s 2-for-4 game helping turn the tide.

The UNC Greensboro commit also doubled in Game 3 to send Etowah into the second round.

“For the players, It’s the ultimate goal to win that state championship. At creekview, we actually won the slowpitch one as well. For our program to have a slow and fast-pitch state championship in a year, it’s just an amazing feeling because this group has been spectacular.”

Creekview Softball Coach Jennifer Maloney

Special

Cherokee County’s GADC All-Star representatives from left to right: Kate English (Creekview), Emily Pettit (Creekview), Mac Pavese (Cherokee), Isabella Eskew (Etowah), Emery Butler (River Ridge), Brooke Beam (River Ridge), Julia Moore (Sequoyah).

SPORTS

Cherokee County students earn national JROTC titles

Staff reports

Three Cherokee County School District teams have earned national Air Force Junior ROTC Raiders championship titles, the school district announced.

The multi-event military style athletic competition held in November at Gerald Lawhorn Boy Scout Camp in Molena, includes a 4K run, half-mile physical fitness test, rope bridge test and the gauntlet, a half-mile obstacle course. Winning top honors requires not only excellent physical fitness and military skills mastery, but also strong teamwork and leadership.

The Etowah High School Air Force JROTC was named the Masters Division Air Force National Champions and AllService National Champion for its Male Team and Air Force National Champions for its Mixed Team. Its Male Team also earned first place overall, and in the 4K mountain run, cross country rescue, physical team test and rope bridge, and fifth place in gauntlet. Its Mixed Team also earned third place overall, second place in gauntlet, third place in cross-country rescue, and fourth place in 4K mountain run and rope bridge. During the recent National Raider’s Challenge at Fort Knox, Ky., Etowah additionally placed third overall in the Masters Division.

Etowah’s Male Team includes: James “Trey” Petrey, who earned third place in the “Ultimate Raider” Male competition; Jacob Abdula-Amer, Jose Alvarado, Kane Barnard, Westin Coleman, Trynt Dean, Oliver Hartz, Farid Maguez, Mateo Munevar, Calib Rogers, Jordan Thompson, Josiah Thompson, John Vian, and Brett Westphal.

The school’s Mixed Team includes: Aaron Audia, Vavrek Anders, Joshua Back, Callie Creamer, Peyton Hill, Hayden Jennings, Jackson Josef, Joshua Mauriello, Kekoa Neuhart, JoAnna O’Laughlin, Madeleine O’Neal, Lily Rountree, Leah Schmid, and Samantha Valencia.

The teams are coached by Etowah HS AFJROTC teacher Lt. Col. (Ret.) Steven Bergey.

The River Ridge High School Air Force JROTC Male Team was named the Chal-

lenge Division Air Force National Champions. The team also earned first place overall, first place in gauntlet and tire flip, and third place in physical team test, 4K mountain run and rope bridge.

River Ridge’s team includes: Arturo Alvarado, Jennings Banks, Ethan Cruz, Peyton Daniel, A. Garrett, T. Garrett, Peyton Gibson, Gabe Idrogo, Chase Leiker, Lindsey Measor, Joshua Monet, Ruben Ramirez, Landon Rosenquist, Aijaz Syed, Manny Tamga, Daniel Tulloch, and Gio Xochicale. The team is coached by River Ridge HS AFJROTC teachers Major (Ret.) Marlon Ayers and Chief Master Sgt. (Ret.) Rodney Deese and parent volunteer Austen Roberts.

The Cherokee High School Air Force JROTC Master Female Team and Challenge Division Male Team are the 4K Mountain Run National Champions. The Masters Division Female Team also placed fourth overall, and earned third place in cross country rescue, fourth place in physical team test, and fifth place in gauntlet. The Challenge Division Male Team also placed fifth overall and earned third place in tire flip, and fifth place in the physical team test.

Cherokee’s Masters Division Female Team includes: Doris Arenas Rodriquez, Emilia Bautista Perez, Joana Correto-Diaz, Kimberly Gaspar Miguel, Shay Henry, Lily Hood, Delaney Howell, Leydi Jeronimo Lopez, Jayden Johnson, Francisca Lopez, Ayva Matiak, Erin Patterson, Josseline Salvador Jimenez, and Aresli Velazquez-Murrilo.

Cherokee’s Challenge Division Male Team includes: Yony Antonio Bautista, Ethan Bradley, Kennedy Cardona Fuentes, Ben Goodrich, Carson Jennings, Eduardo Mateo-Juan, Jose Matias, Francisco Salvador Gaspar, Emerson Salvador-Mejia, Tucker Smith, Tucker Trimble, William Tyler, and Alex Velasquez-Perez.

The teams are coached by Cherokee HS AFJROTC teacher Technical Sgt. (Ret.) Jody Van Ostrand.

The Cherokee County School Board and Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis will recognize the teams at the school board’s December meeting.

Cherokee County School district

The Etowah High School Air Force JROTC.

Cherokee County School district

The River Ridge High School Air Force JROTC.

Cherokee County School district

The Cherokee High School Air Force JROTC Challenge Division Male Team.

Cherokee County School district

The Cherokee High School Air Force JROTC Master Female Team.

LAKO

From 20

are permitted to cash out balances of $1,000 or less when an employee leaves the plan. Unfortunately for the employee, this is a taxable event and effectively restarts their retirement savings. For those with balances of $7,000 or less, their former retirement plan can roll the assets into a Safe Harbor IRA. Automatic portability will transfer these savings from the Safe Harbor IRA to their new employer’s plan, simplifying retirement savings management and helping employees avoid cashing out early.

Finally, a warning: penalties related to inherited IRA required minimum distributions (RMDs) will take effect. The SECURE Act eliminated the “Stretch IRA,” requiring non-spouse

beneficiaries to fully deplete the account by December 31 of the tenth year following the death of the original IRA holder. However, it was initially unclear whether beneficiaries were required to take RMDs during years 1 — 9, and the IRS has provided temporary relief for beneficiaries who failed to take RMDs from their inherited IRAs between 2021 and 2024. In 2025, a 25 percent penalty will be assessed on any undistributed amounts if beneficiaries fail to meet their RMD requirement. However, this penalty can be reduced or waived entirely if corrected in a timely manner.

William G. Lako, Jr., CFP®, is a principal at Henssler Financial and a co-host on “Money Talks” — your trusted resource for your money, your future, your life — airing Saturdays at 10 a.m. on AM 920 The Answer. Mr. Lako is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

Unfortunately for the employee, this is a taxable event and effectively restarts their retirement savings. For those with balances of $7,000 or less, their former retirement plan can roll the assets into a Safe harbor IrA. Automatic portability will transfer these savings from the Safe harbor IrA to their new employer’s plan, simplifying retirement savings management and helping employees avoid cashing out early.

HEALTH

Treating the whole person

Moss Family Chiropractic marks 20 years helping patients in Cherokee County

By Joseph Bennett

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

A childhood tragedy detoured Dr. Daniel Moss away from his dream of practicing traditional medicine and toward his career as a chiropractor.

Moss, whose practice celebrated 20 years in Canton last week, lost his mother to cancer when he was 12. “My grandfather was a doctor, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” Moss said. “But as I finished college and was ready apply to med school, I realized I never wanted to have to tell someone that they’d lost a loved one forever. I wanted to help people in a more upbeat way, and I found that in chiropractic medicine.”

Moss Family Chiropractic is a member of MaxLiving, a network of about 350 chiropractic providers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

The MaxLiving website states that the company “has been dedicated to not only helping people live a healthy lifestyle but educating them on the power of chiropractic.”

With his partner, Dr. Sydney Routh, Moss sees about 350 patients a week in a practice that began in 2004 with about 50 weekly patients. He says chiropractic medicine is about more than dealing with back and neck pain as many people believe.

“We are about helping people maximize their well-being by living a healthy lifestyle,” Moss says. “I ask my patients ‘What are you eating? Are you exercising?’ I take them on food shopping trips.”

In addition to the skeletal manipulation that is part of chiropractic treatment, Moss and Routh teach patients to exercise in ways designed to strengthen and align their bodies, including a system of specialized weights.

“We are all about education and treating the whole person,” Moss said. “Sometimes medications and surgeries are necessary, but the human body has great potential to heal itself. Helping people release that potential is what we want to do.”

About 130 people turned out to help Moss Chiropractic celebrate its two-decade anniversary Nov. 8. They enjoyed a barbecue buffet prepared personally by Moss and dessert prepared by his wife Georgie. New patients also received free exams and X-rays.

Moss Family Chiropractic is located at 8016 Cumming Highway, Suite 304, near Canton. Full office hours are listed at https://maxliving.com/ chiropractor/us/ga/canton/mossfamily-chiropractic.

The Moss family.

“We are about helping people maximize their well-being by living a healthy lifestyle. I ask my patients ‘What are you eating? Are you exercising?’ I take them on food shopping trips.”

Dr. Daniel Moss

COLLUMNIST|DR. ADAM LAND

The effects of cold weather on your joints

Over the last few weeks, you may have noticed the days getting shorter with college football in full swing. We are trading our pumpkin spiced lattes for Christmas blend.

As we move from the warm months of fall into the cooler, often damp months of winter in north Georgia, we can count on these exciting seasonal changes. However, there are other changes ushered in by the cold we wish we could avoid.

As an orthopedic surgeon, I am used to seeing patients with joint pain throughout the year. After all, arthritis knows no season. However, after 13 years, I have learned to expect an influx of patients with the first few days of cooler, damp weather. Some of these patients are experiencing flares of their arthritis. Others have already undergone joint replacement and are wondering why they are suddenly having pain again.

As a physician, I want all my patients to be happy. So, what can I do when I can’t change the weather?

First, I think it’s important to understand the association between lower temperatures and joint pain. Although science cannot definitively explain the relationship, there are multiple factors that all likely contribute to joint discomfort. When the barometric pressure drops, our muscles, tendons and other soft tissues often swell slightly. In the confined space of our bodies, this may manifest as joint pain.

In addition, cold often leads to the constriction of blood vessels in our extremities as our body attempts to conserve heat in our core. The result may be stiff/painful joints. Finally, in cold weather the natural fluid our joints make may thicken and lead to stiffness and pain.

What can be done to alleviate these symptoms? Some remedies may be selfexplanatory. For example, in lower temperatures, dressing warmly and using heat (i.e., a warm bath or shower, heating pad, etc.) to promote blood flow to the extremities may help. It’s also important to keep our bodies moving. Our joints are designed for motion, so getting moderate physical activity multiple days a week is a great way to alleviate pain.

In a season where gluttony is usually

celebrated, we should also be mindful of what we eat. Our excessively processed American diets often contribute to pain by promoting inflammation. Avoiding highly processed foods and beverages (especially with added sugars) and eating more whole foods can help. Lean, grass-fed beef, wildcaught fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables can supply anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that can help you feel better and stay healthy. Try adding ginger, spicy peppers, or turmeric to your diet. These are powerful foods with anti-inflammatory properties.

Finally, if joint pains persist, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist. X-rays may reveal the underlying cause of persistent joint pain. Even in cases of advanced arthritis there are many non-surgical options that can help you live an active lifestyle with less pain. NSAID pain relievers (both over-the-counter and prescription), physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and joint injections can all play a role in relieving joint discomfort caused by arthritis.

In summary, don’t let the cooler weather get you down! Stay active, eat healthy, and if joint pain persists, see your health care specialist.

Dr. Adam Land is an orthopedic surgeon with the Northside Hospital Orthopedic Institute Total Joint Program in Canton. Visit northside.com for more.

Finally, if joint pains persist, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist. X-rays may reveal the underlying cause of persistent joint pain. even in cases of advanced arthritis there are many non-surgical options that can help you live an active lifestyle with less pain. nSAID pain relievers (both over-the-counter and prescription), physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and joint injections can all play a role in relieving joint discomfort caused by arthritis.

eric bern

Dr. Adam Land

Cherokee Tribune

*EZ

Canton names Lesley as its new economic development manager

Staff reports

Canton has a new economic development manager.

Aundi Lesley started as Canton’s economic development manager Nov. 6, the city announced.

“Economic development is crucial to the citizens of Canton and the community as a whole,” Canton City Manager Billy Peppers said. “Aundi has the skill sets and experiences we were seeking in an economic development professional. I believe her collaboration mentality will work well with other members of Team Canton.”

from the University of West Georgia in business administration and a Master of Public Administration degree from Jacksonville State University.

Aundi Lesley

Lesley was formerly the downtown development director for Rome, a position she had held since 2020. She has also worked with Carrollton as Main Street director and as program coordinator for the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center.

Lesley earned an undergraduate degree

“I am excited to become involved with the City of Canton’s businesses and citizens,” Lesley said. “The City has experienced a tremendous amount of growth over the past ten years. I look forward to working with other partners to continue to create an environment for the types of businesses citizens want in the community.”

The economic development manager for the city is responsible for marketing, promotion, public relations, and program development to attract potential investors. The manager also collaborates and serves as a support mechanism for the Cherokee County Office of Economic Development.

Canton partnered with The Chason Group to execute the search for this position.

Denim Fest celebrates Canton history

Families gathered at the annual Denim Fest Nov. 1-2 at the Mill on Etowah, where there was music, barbecue and shopping with local vendors in celebration of the

mill’s history.

The festival honors the history of the mill, which was once a top denim producer in the country, run by Canton Textile Mills as Cotton Mill No. 1. The mill was

built in 1900 and actively produced denim until 1981.

Nov. 1 there was trick-or-treating and a kids costume contest. Nov. 2 featured the annual Denim Fest BBQ cook off.

robin rayne

Eleanor Webaloswsky and Autumn Adel of Holly Springs play in bubbles at Denim Fest Nov. 2 at the Mill on Etowah in Canton.

robin rayne

Hundreds of area residents flocked to Denim Fest at the Mill on Etowah at the historic Cotton Mill No. 1.

robin rayne

Jessica Parker and Scott Parker, left, pose with friends Michelle and David Swart, right, for an artist’s caricature of the two couples at Denim Fest Nov. 2 in Canton.

robin rayne

With her face painted in festive colors, Emma Alderney, 4, rests in her mother’s arms at Denim Fest at the Mill on Etowah Nov. 2.

robin rayne

Harper and Lillian Pearson hug their inflatable unicorns at Denim Fest at the Mill on Etowah in Canton.

robin rayne

Brian Choate provides barbecue to guests during the Denim Fest BBQ Cookoff Nov. 2 at the Mill on Etowah outside the historic Cotton Mill No. 1.

CHEROKEE SOCIAL SCENE

Place Services, Inc. has headquarters groundbreaking

Place Services, Inc., a remodeling and new construction business in Cherokee County, broke ground on its new headquarters in Holly Springs Oct. 18.

The new facility will be located at 4401 Gabriel Boulevard.

PSI was founded in 2006 in Canton as a small carpentry business, and has grown to encompass three distinct businesses, offering full design-build capabilities, 12 trade divisions, and seven general contracting divisions. The company serves clients across the nation, holding licenses in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, and managing over 1,000 skilled tradesmen.

According to PSI, the company’s annual revenue exceeds $400 million, with bonding capabilities up to $200 million and coverage of $40 million per occurrence.

The current headquarters holds 120 employees, PSI reports, and the new office space will have room for at least 175 employees.

Local seniors visit Cherokee Triad SALT Senior Extravaganza

Murphy and Bonnie Dobbs with Bonnie Dobbs

the 18th

event.

Alice Fennell and Penny Daniels with Cherokee

attendance at the Senior Extravaganza

Cherokee County seniors and caregivers visited His Hands Church in Woodstock Oct. 24 for a senior resource fair.

The 18th annual Senior Extravaganza event featured various organizations focused on helping seniors, including public safety agencies, healthcare providers, nonprofits and more.

Cherokee Triad Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) hosted the event, which is hosted annually to keep local seniors and caregivers informed of the resources, businesses and organizations that can benefit them.

For more information about Cherokee Triad SALT, visit saltcherokee.com.

Anthony Stalcup

Place Services, Inc. executives Bobby Murphy, Holly Springs city manager Rob Logan, Todd Guthrie, Robert Mele, Troy Place and Matthew Cash pose for a picture at the groundbreaking ceremony for their new headquarters site in Holly Springs Oct. 18.

Anthony Stalcup

Place Services, Inc. CFO Todd Guthrie speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Anthony Stalcup

Place Services, Inc. CEO and founder Troy Place speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for their new headquarters site in Holly Springs Oct. 18.

Anthony Stalcup

Holly Springs City Manager Rob Logan speaks at the Place Services, Inc. groundbreaking.

ethan Johnson

Lisa

Agency were in attendance at

annual Senior Extravaganza

ethan Johnson

Tammy Brewer and Tammy McGown with CarePatrol, a senior advisory service, were in attendance at the Senior Extravaganza.

ethan Johnson

E-911 were in

event.

ethan Johnson

Daniel Westbrook and Courtney Bourgouin with Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency were in attendance at the 18th annual Senior Extravaganza event.

ethan Johnson

Cherokee County seniors and caregivers visited His Hands Church in Woodstock Oct. 24 for the 18th annual Senior Extravaganza event.

Fall Plant Festival at the Mill on Etowah

Plant enthusiasts gathered Oct. 26 at the Mill on Etowah in Canton for the Fall Plant Festival, which featured a plant

sale and over 30 vendors selling handmade items.

The event was hosted by Cantonbased Plant Daddies of Atlanta.

Rex and Jan

were among

of

Reformation Brewery celebrates 11th anniversary at Cadence Fair

Reformation Brewery celebrated its 11th anniversary with live music, special releases, food and more at its annual Cadence Fair Oct. 2527 in downtown Woodstock.

Cadence Fair began in 2017 and traditionally has taken place on one day, but this year the festival was expanded to three days. The event is free to attend.

Brother and the Hayes headlined the event, and local musicians also performed including Cody Bolden.

Cody Bolden, a singer-songwriter from Canton, entertains the crowd at Reformation Brewery’s Cadence Fair in Woodstock.

robin rayne

Allen

scores

plant lovers at the Fall Plant Festival at the Mill on Etowah Oct. 26, with green-thumb and artistic vendors.

robin rayne

Annalise Delgado and Ari Wood explore possible additions to their homes as plant lovers flocked to the Fall Plant Festival at the Mill on Etowah in Canton Oct. 26.

robin rayne Families enjoyed live music, food and drinks at Cadence Fair.

robin rayne

robin rayne

Jennie Hayes Kurtz from Brother and the Hayes performs at Cadence Fair in downtown Woodstock Oct. 26.

robin rayne

Cooper Anderson, with daughter Olive, enjoys the entertainment as Reformation Brewery celebrated its 11th anniversary.

robin rayne

Julia Winter and Macey McWhorter enjoy the party vibe Saturday as Reformation Brewery celebrated its 11th anniversary.

GARDENING

GARDENING WITH THE MASTERS|

MARCIA WINCHESTER

Evergreen tips for December landscapes

ORNAMENTALS

♦ Yews, juniper, holly, boxwood, broadleaf evergreens, and many deciduous trees, roses, and shrubs can be propagated this month. Insert evergreen cuttings in vermiculite or sand in a cool greenhouse or tie bundles of the cuttings together and bury in a cold frame. Remove in early spring and plant in a nursery bed.

♦ December is an excellent month to replace overgrown shrubs — don’t fertilize until early spring.

♦ Fertilize pansies and other winter annuals with a fertilizer containing nitrate nitrogen. The higher the ratio of nitrate nitrogen, the better the fertilizer.

♦ Finish winter clean-up by pruning deciduous perennials 3-4 inches from the ground. The leaving part of the stem helps mark the location and size of the plant.

♦ When it is too cold to work in the yard, work on putting your landscape on paper. Mark existing plants, site conditions (wet, dry, sunny, shade), then make a list of what you want to add.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

♦ Pick mummied fruit off trees and rake up leaves under fruit trees to remove insects and diseases.

♦ December is a good month to construct raised vegetable beds. Any length is fine, but it’s good to build them no wider than 30-40 inches for easy access and to minimize compacting soil.

♦ To protect winter veggies from extreme cold, apply a thin layer of mulch

or cover with a row cover.

♦ Top dress unused areas of veggie beds with 2-4 inches of composted manure or shredded leaves. Fruit trees can be pruned at any time during the winter provided the temperature is above 45°.

DECEMBER MISCELLANEOUS

♦ Keep all indoor plants away from drafts and direct heat sources — inexpensive plastic draft hoods help redirect heat away from plants. Keep checking house plants for insect infestation. Isolate and treat infected

plants immediately.♦

♦ Winterize your lawnmower, tiller, and weed eater. Drain out gas and replace the oil with fresh oil. Remove the oil filter and either clean or replace it. Check all nuts and bolts to be sure they haven’t vibrated loose. Mower blades and tiller tines can be sharpened. Inspect wheels, belts, and other moving parts.

♦ To keep your shears and loppers in good shape for next year, clean them with mineral spirits or Lysol bathroom tile cleaner. Adjust the tension screw and give them a good sharpening. Be sure to

use a broad file while sharpening. Tools sharpened by a power grinder will overheat and lose their tempering, making the metal is likely to chip or break.

♦ Clean garden hand tools with liquid detergent and bleach, drying thoroughly. Then oil to prevent rust.

♦ Blades of shovels and hoes can be sharpened with a file. Apply a light coat of household oil. Treat all wood handles with a coat of linseed oil.

♦ Drain garden hoses and sprinklers, checking them for leaks. Replace any old hose washers. Do not store hoses in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures as both will shorten the life of your hose.

♦ Clean all pressure sprayers and dusters before putting them away for the winter. Make sure they are functioning correctly prior to storage.

♦ Clean and sanitize all stakes and trellises before putting them up for the winter. Use either rubbing alcohol or 1-part liquid bleach to 9 parts water.

♦ Store birdseed in metal cans with tight-fitting lids to keep squirrels and mice at bay. These animals can chew through plastic lids.

♦ Keep the Christmas tree stand filled with water and check the level in the reservoir daily. There is no need to add preservatives to the water. Happy Gardening!

Marcia Winchester is one of many UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County. For more information or questions contact the Cherokee County Extension Office at 770-7217803 or for upcoming seminars follow us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/cherokeemastergardeners or cherokeemastergardeners.com.

WHERE TO FIND THE CHEROKEE LEDGER MONTHLY

Pick up your free copy of The Cherokee Ledger Monthly at these convenient locations:

CANTON

♦ Texaco, 180 Butterworth Rd, Canton 30114

♦ Shell, 3550 Marietta Hwy, Canton 30114

♦ Chevron, 4129 Marietta Hwy, Canton 30114

♦ Exxon, 2619 Holly Springs Pkwy, Canton 30114

♦ Union 76, 900 Waleska Rd, Canton 30114

♦ Marathon, 14 Mill St, Canton 30114

♦ Chevron, 111 Mountain Vista Blvd, Canton, 30114

♦ Johnnys New York Style Pizza, 559 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, 30114

♦ Cotton Mill Exchange, 225 Reformation Pkwy, Ste 100, Canton, 30114

♦ Bedoe’s Bar & Grille, 6115 Hickory Flat Hwy, Ste 101, Canton, 30115

♦ Kroger 4045 Marietta Hwy, Canton, 30114

♦ Kroger 6766 Hickory Flat Hwy, Canton, 30115

♦ Publix 15 Laurel Canyon Village, Canton, 30114

♦ Publix 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, 30114

♦ Publix 120 Prominence Point Pkwy, Canton, 30114

♦ Publix 6175 Hickory Flat Hwy, Canton 30115

♦ Ymca, 151 Waleska St, Canton 30114

♦ Bojangles 1665 Ball Ground Hwy, Canton, 30114

♦ Georgian Hills Restaurant, Canton, 30114

♦ Cherokee Courthouse, 90 North Street, Canton, 30114

♦ Cherokee Tribune, 521 E Main St, Canton, 30114

♦ R T Jones Library, 116 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton, 30144

♦ Northside Hospital Women’s Center, 450 Northside Cherokee Blvd, Canton, 30114

♦ Northside Hospital Main Entrance, 450 Northside Cherokee Blvd, Canton, 30114

WOODSTOCK

♦ Jd Bbq, 6426 Bells Ferry Rd, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Family Tradition Rest., 4379 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Family Tradition Restaurant, 7830 Hickory Flat Hwy, Woodstock, 30188

♦ Circle K, 12155 Hwy 92, Woodstock, 30188

♦ Kia, 630 Olde Rope Mill Park Rd, Woodstock, 30188

♦ Texaco, 6790 Bells Ferry, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Texaco, 6511 Bells Ferry, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Village Burger, 9550 Main St., Woodstock, 30118

♦ Bizarre Coffee, 440 Chambers St, Woodstock, 30188

♦ Woodstock Library, 7735 Main Street,

Woodstock, 30188

♦ Woodstock Visitors Center, 8588 Main St, Woodstock, 30188

♦ Family Tradition Restaurant, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189

♦ Kroger 12050 Hwy 92, Woodstock, 30188

HOLLY SPRINGS

♦ Hop In, 2204 Holly Springs Pkwy, Holly Springs, 30115

♦ Kroger 5341 Old Hwy 5, Holly Springs, 30188

ACWORTH

♦ Food Depot 5530 Bells Ferry Rd, Acworth, 30102

♦ Mapco, 1530 Kellog Creek Rd, Acworth Ga, 30102

LEBANON

♦ Postoffice, 5101 Old Hwy 5, Lebanon, 30146

Canva

Winchester

CROSSWORD ANSWER