Enjoy Cherokee Magazine September/October 2023

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6 strive for 23 makes an impact page 16 player interviews page

30 gratitude on tap 10 years of reformation page

VOL. 11 | ISSUE 5 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

Enjoy Cherokee Team

Randy Gravley, CEO/President

Jodi Drinkard, COO/Publisher

Bill West, Vice President of Sales

Jaye Grimes, Managing Editor

Raymond Werner, Digital Media Specialist

Bobbie Christmas, Senior Editor

Laurie Parente, Designer

Leana Conway, Writer

Rebecca Johnston, Writer

Katie Nix, Writer

Cindy Pope, Writer

Brooke Schmidt, Writer

Shannon Sickmon, Writer

Britni Treadway, Writer

Emma Tyler, Writer

Jennifer Allen, Account Executive

Robin Barnes, Account Executive

James Drinkard, Sports Consultant

Makenzie Bird, Intern

Nick Feehery, Intern

Emilee Hendrix, Intern

Copyright 2023 by Enjoy Magazine Inc. (EMI). All rights reserved. Every effort is made to ensure the contents of this publication are true and accurate. EMI assumes no responsibility for misinformation. Correction requests are always welcome at SimplyTheBest@EnjoyCherokee.com. Reproduction in whole, or in part, without permission of Enjoy Magazine, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

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Strive for 23 Program Changes Lives

Learn about Cherokee High School’s Strive for 23 program that mentors students on and off the field using soccer to keep at-risk students on the path for graduation.

Player Spotlight Interviews

Meet six of Cherokee County's top players on the gridiron: Kaden "Pops" Jameson, Reed Anderson, Vinny Pacini, Matthew Lipcsey, Brady Curl, and Drew Burmeister

Gratitude on Tap

Reformation Brewery

celebrates ten years since first opening its doors in Woodstock in 2013. Take a look at how this community cornerstone got its humble start and what's to come.

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Halftime is Game Time

Marching bands are an integral part of the Friday night football experience. Meet the marching band directors of Cherokee County's high schools and learn how music and marching can create something truly special.

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Welcome to Bruins Country Cherokee County's new semipro football team is on the path to becoming the gold standard as they give back to the community.

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Fall Festival Guide

Check out the fairs, festivals, and fundraisers lined up for North Georgia's fall season that you don't want to miss!

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The Gallery Series: Laura Spears Coogle

Meet Laura Spears Coogle, for whom Gallery Five in the Cherokee County History Center is named. Her many ties to Cherokee County ground her and her family deep in its rich history.

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Hayden's Review: Garland Mountain Bar & Grill

Hayden makes a stop at Garland Mountain Bar & Grill, Waleska's hidden gem where homey Southern dining meets a picturesque mountain view.

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Contents
[special feature]
[table of contents]
SIGN UP TODAY TO RECEIVE YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTION! P.O. Box 4666 I Canton, GA 30114 I 678-454-9552 @EnjoyCherokee EnjoyCherokee.com Alpine Leather Co. 25 Bear Claw Vineyards 4 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 14 Blue Ridge Business Association 49 Booth Western Art Museum 36 Canton Funeral Home 28 Cartecay Crush Festival 39 Century House 4 Chattahoochee Technical College 8 Cherokee Floor Covering 28 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta 18 Culver’s of Hickory Flat 21 Dancing Goats FolkFest 36 Darby Funeral Home 14 Divinely Aligned Healing 25 Explore Canton 32 Falany Performing Arts Center inside back Fermented Wine Boutique 25 Georgia Apple Festival 34-35 Georgia Marble Festival 3 Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 39 Giggle Monsters Craft Donuts 25 Golfing Fore Children 49 Harmony Orthodontics 25 History Cherokee 46 Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County 45 It’s Me Time 4 J. Thompson Ross Investments 40 Jeff Heller, Attorney at Law 22 Jones General Market 25 Magnetize.Me 47 Molly & Margie’s 4 Nia Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 9 Nina’s Pizza Kitchen 19 Northside Hospital inside front cover Northside Hospital: Ask the Doctor 26-27 Northside Hospital-Cherokee 21 Once Upon a Child 8 Piedmont Healthcare 23 Shottenkirk Chrysler 18 Tailgate with a Firefighter 15, 24 Taste & Brews Fall Festival 38 The Daily Draft 45 The Mill on Etowah back cover Vegas Night Fundraiser 20 Wellstar Health System 10 Woodstock Funeral Home 45

Scoring High School Credits:

Strive for 23 Program Changes Lives

Cherokee

High School varsity soccer

coach Riley Wildeman has been emotionally moved more times than he can count by the stories of his students. Riley, himself a Cherokee graduate who now teaches environmental science and biology at the county’s oldest high school, runs a soccer-based mentoring program out of its diverse halls called Strive for 23. An initiative to help at-risk students earn the twenty-three academic credits required for a diploma, Strive for 23 takes students’ love of soccer and turns it into motivation for them to attend classes and do well there.

6 [EnjoyCherokee.com] IMPACT
The Strive for 23 program's goals are to strive for 23 credits, strive to be the best, and encourage attendance and teamwork.

Ahumble young coach with years of soccer experience, Riley explains that the Cherokee High School [CHS] student body includes a number of students who must go straight to work after school or who take care of younger siblings after school, rather than participating in athletics or other extracurricular activities. For many of these students, who need to make money to send home to family in other countries or to help pay rent for living arrangements, high school can seem like a waste of time.

Teaming up with other equally dedicated CHS staff members, including graduation coach Jeremy Law, baseball coach Josh Thomas, football coach Davis Harvey, and assistant principal Matt Cates, Riley set out to find a way to inspire these kids to stay in school despite their difficult circumstances.

Since 2022 two CHS teachers have taken turns giving up their lunch periods or planning periods every single day to take interested students to the school tennis courts to play soccer. This is the simple basis behind Strive for 23: when students are part of a team that needs them, they have inspiration to show up.

“By building this sense of community for kids through soccer—no one wants to let a coach or team down—these students learn they matter here,” Riley says. The students in Strive for 23 who need extra school support are identified and matched with a mentor who helps them decide what they need to do to reach the twenty-three credits required to graduate and how specifically to get there. Through academic and attendance accountability, these students discover, often for the first time in their lives, what it means to have someone believe in them.

Riley says the largest lunchtime games consist of about sixty students, with about 160 students participating overall. In 2023 Strive for 23 arranged a pep rally and lunch-period tournament that Riley says is an experience none of them will ever forget. Without resources to play club ball and without the time to dedicate to the varsity and junior varsity teams at school, Strive for 23 students have often never played in front of anyone before, and certainly they’ve never been cheered on. Riley says of the students after experiencing high-fives and boisterous applause, “Seeing their self-confidence grow and watching them all get on track to graduate is magical.”

Strive for 23 would not be able to succeed without partnerships like the one with Cherokee Youth Foundation and Cherokee Soccer Association (Cherokee Impact). “We do soccer so amazingly,” says the foundation’s Kim Bishop, “but we may do community even better.”

Like Riley, Kim is hesitant for any spotlight to shine somewhere other than on the students; however, few people know that in addition to running highly popular local soccer programs, Cherokee Impact created and manages the Cherokee Collective, the vision of cofounders Shane Moore and Zip Cain. A large organization of area nonprofits helping other nonprofits, Shane says the network is “a great sampling of our caring Cherokee community. The Strive for 23 program was proudly launched, supported, and executed by members of this group.”

As a result of idea-generating discussions in the network, a smaller assistive organization called the Warrior Collective has launched at CHS. Here school clubs and athletic teams help meet community needs. Through these initiatives soccer balls and other items have been provided for the students participating in Strive for 23.

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Cherokee students packed the stands for the program's first pep rally in 2023. According to National Geographic, soccer is by far the most popular sport in the world. PhotoCredit:DavidVaughn
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What’s happening at Cherokee High School is really special,” Kim says, “and it’s because of the incredible ability of these teachers to invest in and connect with their students. Riley is the glue holding the programming together and ensuring these kids’ success.

Together teachers and coaches are leading the way to build student-adult relationships and give kids experiences they would not otherwise have. The proof of Strive for 23’s success goes beyond the smiles on students’ faces. In the program’s inaugural year seventy students who were not going to graduate were placed back on track to earn their credits. And this past spring, every Strive for 23 senior graduated!

This summer, Riley was contacted by other area schools who now want to model programs after Strive for 23. “Providing opportunity and giving students a reason to get up in the morning,” Kim says, “who wouldn’t want to be a part of that? It’s amazing what a sport can do.”

MOUNTAIN MOVERS: A Personal Story of Soccer Success

One of the most poignant student stories out of Coach Riley Wildeman’s Strive for 23 graduation program is of a student who came to Cherokee High School after arriving in the United States as a non-English speaker. At just fifteen, the student ended up living in Canton without immediate family, paying rent to a distant relative for a room, and working every day from four o’clock in the afternoon until midnight assembling furniture, all while attending CHS.

A gifted soccer player and strong student, he was identified as a teen who could benefit from Strive for 23. He wanted to play for the school’s team but lacked both the resources and the time, especially because he was working to earn money to pay for his passage to America. The devoted mentors at CHS assisted with his academic and attendance accountability, and when he was able to relieve some of his debt, the student approached coaches about finding a way to play varsity ball. The student who began at CHS playing soccer in Crocs on a tennis court will end his time at Cherokee as a varsity athlete, playing on real soccer pitches, and more importantly, as an academically successful graduate.

This student saw more than a 30 percent increase in his English-speaking ability in just seven months at CHS. Riley credits the achievement to the steadfast efforts of Cherokee’s ESOL teacher team including Gabriela Ratcliff, Micah Brittin, and Morgan Flint.

“The ESOL team,” Riley says, “is instrumental in fostering the culture that Strive for 23 needs to be successful. It demonstrates the value of community in developing our English language learners.”

Sharing this student story to model the impact of the program, Riley says, “This is an example of how Strive for 23 can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Here are kids who don’t even know they have additional opportunities, and together we are showing them. We are moving mountains through soccer.”

To volunteer with Cherokee Youth Foundation or support Strive for 23, contact Cherokee Youth Foundation by calling 770-704-0187 or visiting CherokeeYF.org, or contact Coach Riley Wildeman at Riley.Wildeman @cherokeek12.net.

Strive for 23

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‘‘ ’’

Defensive back

David Daniel-Sisavanh, a returning UGA letterman and former Woodstock High School player who saw action in the National Championship Game with two tackles against Texas Christian University, is among the players looking for increased roles this fall.

Tight end Drew Sheehan, who led his Woodstock High team to the playoffs his sophomore and junior years, says he is excited about what the new season will hold for the Georgia Bulldogs.

The six-foot-two-inch, 215-pound fifth-year senior says that being a part of what happened in 2022 was a memorable experience when UGA took its first National Championship in forty years, but this year will have its share of excitement as the team builds on that success. “There are going to be a lot of new faces this year, because a lot of last year’s players have gone on to the NFL. Now it is going to be exciting to see how other guys do out there. Quarterback Drew Carson—it is his turn this year to make something happen,” Drew Sheehan says.

Carson was the primary backup quarterback last year, completing twenty-five of thirty-six passes for four touchdowns. He has big shoes to fill, left by departing quarterback Stetson Bennett.

Drew Sheehan plans to make the most of any opportunities that come his way in his

final year with Georgia. “I am a walk-on tight end, but hopefully I will get to come in for a few games to help Lawson Luckie and Pearce Spurlin,” Sheehan says of two of the highly touted tight ends added to the roster as early enrollees. “And whatever opportunities come my way, I am ready to make the most of them.”

The former Woodstock player also says he looks forward to another season led by All-American Brock Bowers, the top tight end in the nation. UGA has boasted one of the deepest tight end benches in the nation, and that fact is not expected to change this year.

Drew credits his Woodstock High head football coach Brent Budde with his chances of success at UGA, as well as his dad, Tom Sheehan. Tom played baseball at Merrimack College and Holyoke Community College and now is offensive coordinator at Lassiter High School in neighboring Cobb County. Drew is also grateful to his mother, Lisa, for all her support, as well as all his friends and family in his hometown of Woodstock.

Following this year of football, Drew will still have one year of eligibility to play, but he is already looking to a future that he hopes will lead to a collegiate or NFL coaching position.

David Daniel-Sisavanh, also coached in high school by Brent Budde, ranked as the number-fourteen high school prospect overall in Georgia and was named a 2020 Sports Illustrated All-American Football candidate from the state after totaling 123 tackles— including ninety-four solo tackles and one

sack—two interceptions, and causing three fumbles in his high school career. He was the first SEC recruit from Woodstock High since Tripp Chandler signed as a Bulldog in 2005. David enrolled at UGA in January 2021 and received the David C. Cooper Family Football Scholarship.

David shares of his time on the field in the UGA National Championship win,

It was a blessing; it was good to get the team over there with the win. As a team to get to win, all the work we put in, it was good.

He says he is glad the team could reach that goal, and he looks forward to repeating it this year.

As a reserve defensive back in fourteen games last season, David logged fourteen total stops, including two for lost yardage and a pass breakup and had four tackles, including one stop for lost yardage in the season-opening win over No. 11 Oregon. He also made two tackles in the SEC Championship Game versus Louisiana State University.

"We are going to try to give everyone a show just like we did the last couple of years. We took it one day at a time during practice this summer,” David, who is in his junior year, explained. “I am hoping to help the team with another National Championship win. As a defensive back, you know you are not going to win every play, but you have to concentrate on making the most of the next play."

by Rebecca Johnston, Canton Resident David Daniel-Sisavanh
‘‘ ’’
Drew Sheehan
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When the University of Georgia’s reigning National Championship football team takes to the field this season, two players familiar to Cherokee County fans will be part of the returning UGA powerhouse: David Daniel-Sisavanh and Drew
Sheehan .

On the outside the marching band is fancy uniforms, an array of instruments, great music, and intricate choreography. On the inside, being in a marching band means hard work, long practices, and immense skill. Marching bands are more than students making music; they are a family, collaborating and bouncing their talents off each other, sharing their hearts through music. The six marching bands of Cherokee County’s high schools are the prime examples of that greatness coming into play. But what does it actually mean to be a part of the marching band?

Halftime Is GAME TIME

CHEROKEE High School Band Director Garrick Cheyne, a fourth-generation trombone player, enjoys the give-and-take of energy between the performers and crowd. He says that seeing his musical and visual ideas for a show transform into a creative presentation on the field is his favorite part of directing. He encourages his students to be the best versions of themselves. “Music is interdependent on each student and instrument,” he says, “so they must learn to work together as a team.” These learned skills will transcend into their adulthood. Garrick hopes his students see the value of hard work. He adds, “Although it doesn’t always pay off immediately and doesn’t always pay off in the way you expect it to, it always pays off.”

Josh Tyree, band director of River Ridge High School, says he enjoys cultivating relationships and making great music with wonderful people as he builds something amazing shoulder-to-shoulder with his students and their parents. “Their joy and enthusiasm are infectious. I strive to keep that fresh-eyed approach to teaching music and designing productions.” Josh hopes his students fully embrace the fact that failing is okay.

12 [EnjoyCherokee.com] MARCHING BAND
The Woodstock Wolverines marching band perform beneath a stunning fall sunset. The Etowah Eagles marching band special summertime performance Public Library.

He believes “we are all humans, and failure is part of the learning process. People who seek to hide failure are fragile. People who embrace failure as part of the learning process are the strength that moves the world.”

Etowah High School Band Director Stephen Long tells his goal: “To work with students to grow into contributing members of our society through the vehicle of music.” Stephen ensures that in addition to making music, his marching band members also focus on life skills and teamwork. He explains, “We are working to define our marching technique and move beyond the notes and routine to create a product that engages our audiences all season.” He says he hopes that his students can “be punctual, work hard, contribute to a team, lead others in a supportive way, and develop a system toward individual growth.”

Etowah also prioritizes mentorship and leadership opportunities, having hosted symposiums in the past for all Cherokee County schools. Stephen reports that his students have taught him, “Even though we want to be the best and have the best technique, [it should not be] at the expense of our enjoyment of this art.”

Creekview High School Band Director Stephen McCarthy urges his students to “establish and trust the process in which we build our show product.” Along with deepening bonds during practices and performances, he is grateful for the ability to provide a space and activity for kids to build friendships and skill sets. He adds, “Seeing students buy into the process of how we build a performance product is my biggest reward.” He hopes his students will “build memories that last for a lifetime and also be advocates for the activity as they get older.”

In addition to training his students to be great musicians, Band Director Bob Loehr of Woodstock High School strives for his students to be the best versions of themselves while carrying those skills into all aspects of their lives. He shares, “I want them to learn to work hard and allow themselves to fail in the process.” For Bob the journey toward their successes during the year is just as rewarding, if not more so, than the result. Although playing in the band, he admits, “is not always a bed of roses and requires a lot of perseverance and grit,” he hopes his students can look back on their time with each other and smile, and he adds that his students remind him to “enjoy every day that you get to create music.”

Etowah High School Assistant Band Director Annissa Hackney enjoys watching her students’ love of music grow as she hopes to teach them the idea of making the world a better place, because as she says, music makes the world a better place.

MARCHING ONWARD

Baker Brown, Georgia Institute

of Technology

Cherokee High School | Class of 2021

How long have you been in marching band?

I’ve been playing for five years; four years were spent at Cherokee High School and one was spent at Georgia Tech.

What instrument do you play?

I play the trumpet.

How has marching band impacted your life?

Joining marching band turned out to be one of the most pivotal decisions of my life. I think it mainly helped me learn to be a more disciplined person, a tactical thinker, and a surprisingly good leader. It allowed me to drastically improve my musicianship skills as well.

Are you planning on utilizing your musical talents beyond college?

I’ve recently been learning piano on my own for the past year, and I think someday I would like to be a part of a worship team for a church.

What was your favorite memory of marching band in high school?

During the football season of my senior year at Cherokee High School in 2020, we beat Cartersville High School, who had been on a sixty-two-game winning streak. Our whole football team rushed over to the band at the end of the game as we triumphantly blasted “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled.

Jordan Wigner, Kennesaw State University

Cherokee High School | Class of 2022

How long have you been in marching band?

I have been in marching band for six years. Four at Cherokee and two at Kennesaw State.

What instrument do you play?

I play trombone.

How has marching band impacted your life?

Marching band has given me a community to call home, and a family I would sacrifice for. The biggest impact it’s had on me is the differentiation in cultures. You see people who come from all over the world that love spending their evenings under football lights.

Are you planning on utilizing your musical talents beyond college?

I don’t plan on playing trombone after college as much as I do now. However, I have no doubt in my mind that I’ll have one in my room to play occasionally.

What was your favorite memory of marching band in high school?

My favorite memory has to be the times when we went to Waffle House after a win. Nothing can beat that 2:00 a.m. victory waffle.

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Q: A: Q: A: Q: Q: Q: Q: Q: Q: Q: A: A: A: A: A: A: Q: A: A:
band played a performance at Rose Creek The Creekview Marching Grizzlies (2022-2023 season) follow the mantra of "Energy. Effort. Excellence."
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Second-year Drum Major Lawson Brashear loves being able to help make band more enjoyable for his bandmates. He urges his peers to join any program they’re interested in, stating, “If you have any vision for what you want, tackle it. It means so much to the band program to go onto the field and hear such a roaring yell.”

Etowah High School Guard Captain Grace Lancaster loves being able to help her peers and create a positive environment for everyone. Grace says, “I really enjoy it, and I also want other people to enjoy it. You get to make a lot of friends and work hard while having fun.”

Along with moving in time while playing and carrying instruments, overcoming mental and emotional barriers is a common hurdle for band students. River Ridge’s Josh Tyree explains, “To create truly amazing music you have to let down your emotional barriers and pour out your soul. This is hard for high school kids to do, because they are worried about being cool. Little do they know that the coolest people in the world put their hearts and souls into what they love and they just don’t care what other people think.”

Woodstock’s Bob Loehr states that his students allowing themselves to fail and not be perfect is important for the success of the band. Along with team building, effective communication and time management are skills that band students learn, practice, and apply to all areas of life.

Being a part of band guarantees mentorship, as the dedicated students work with their directors before, during, and after school, on breaks, and on weekends. These relationships last a lifetime, as students often keep in touch with their directors to express gratitude for the band skills they carried on after graduation.

Josh from River Ridge says, “Band kids are some of the smartest, highest-achieving students at each school. Marching band offers an opportunity for students to truly lead, fail, correct, and succeed in a real-world environment.” Some have continued to become musical educators or instructional staff in their director’s programs, while others have applied leadership skills in families, prestigious careers, and even as decorated officers in the service.

For the ultimate marching band experience, football games and live concerts offer stellar entertainment. Every year, the schools take turns hosting the Cherokee County Marching Band Exhibition. This year’s Cherokee County School District Exhibition is on Monday, October 9, beginning at 5:00 p.m. on the Cherokee High School campus. Plans for a new school are underway, so the event will be the final exhibition held at the current Cherokee High School, which makes the October 9 exhibition a historical event to attend. It’s a prime opportunity to support Cherokee County’s marching bands and witness the schools’ and students’ support of each other as they celebrate the hard work and perseverance they display every day.

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Etowah High School junior Grace Lancaster is a captain for the Varsity Colorguard team, which performs choreography alongside the band.

SEQUOYAH 2023 FOOTBALL SEASON SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT

August 18 at Lambert

August 25 at Rabun Gap

September 1 vs Cedartown

September 8 vs Cherokee

September 15 vs Etowah

September 22 FALL BREAK

September 29 at River Ridge

October 6 vs Rome

October 13 at Creekview

October 20 BYE

Sequoyah Chiefs offensive lineman Brady Curl is entering his senior year with a sense of both triumph and anticipation. A football player since first grade, he utilizes the advantages of lifelong practice and deeply rooted friendships to engage in the field. Brady explains that the team’s brotherhood and friendship encourages him to play and is also what inspires the team’s success. Brady states, “The camps we endure in the summer are what connect us, and the season is what pushes us.”

Brady is thoroughly interested in this year’s scheme and playbook, claiming the team has new plays for the offensive side that he’s excited to initiate. His faith for the season lies with Coach James Teter, who is a strong motivator for the team, according to Brady.

Coach Teter shares, “While Brady’s work ethic is his biggest asset, his speed and strength are some of the best tools he uses on the field. Brady is a three-year starter and team leader who brings a tremendous amount of experience to our team.”

Brady occupies his free time by working out at the gym and playing golf with his friends. After high school he hopes to play college football and later transition into being both a history teacher and football coach.

Player Profile by Emma Tyler, Waleska Resident

#50Brady CURL

September 1 .........

September 8 .........

September 15 .......

@ Woodstock

@ Sequoyah

SEQUOYAH
CHIEFS
Cherokee
Cherokee
Etowah
GAME OF THE WEEK SCHEDULE Listen live on WLJA 101.1 FM or live stream online at WLJAradio.com
@ Sequoyah
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RIVER RIDGE 2023

FOOTBALL SEASON SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT

August 18 at Hillgrove

August 25 vs Pope

September 1 at Sprayberry

September 8 vs North Atlanta

September 15 at Woodstock

September 22 FALL BREAK

September 29 vs Sequoyah

October 6 vs Rome

October 13 at Creekview

October 20 BYE

Although the sporting world tends to overuse the term “double threat” when referring to young players, River Ridge senior Matthew Lipcsey epitomizes that phrase. He is equally talented on both the football field and the baseball diamond; in fact, Matthew was just chosen as an honorable mention for Georgia’s All-State baseball team.

In football Matthew was one of the highest on the team in tackles, with more than ninety last season. Yet Matthew remains humble, even gracious about his skills.

He recalls some of his toughest games, stating that playing Langston Hughes High School in the playoffs was extraordinarily challenging. Discussing the pass rush, he says, “After the spring game, we looked rough. Over the summer we’ve gotten a lot better. I was a little worried at first, but after camp [we] did great, so I’m feeling pretty good.”

Matthew is a born leader. Fellow players tend to follow him, both on and off the field. He’s known for speed, hitting hard, and his ability to read the play. He’s been playing football for nine years, but he wants to play baseball in college. He’s looking at the University of North Georgia and Coker University in South Carolina, where he hopes to take his baseball skills further. Any coach that recruits Matthew will get a young man with incredible talent—and an even bigger heart.

River ridge knights
#7Matthew Lipcsey
2023 Vegas Variety Show Night! Let’s Go All-In for a Fun-Filled Evening September 9, 2023 | 6:00–9:30 p.m. NORTHSIDE CHEROKEE CONFERENCE CENTER AT THE BLUFFS PLEASE CONTACT US FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 770-721-7833 | SDWILLIAMS@CHEROKEEGA.COM | BGCMA.ORG/VEGASNIGHT Tickets on sale now.
Player Profile by Shannon Sickmon, Woodstock Resident
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22 [EnjoyCherokee.com] DATE GAME TIME AT OPPONENT LOCATION SEPTEMBER Saturday 2 6:00 p.m. Home UT Martin Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 9 12:00 p.m. Home Ball State Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 16 3:30 p.m. Home South Carolina Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 23 TBD Home UAB Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 30 TBD Away Auburn Auburn, AL OCTOBER Saturday 7 TBD Home Kentucky Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 14 TBD Away Vanderbilt Nashville, TN Saturday 28 3:30 p.m. Neutral Florida Jacksonville, FL NOVEMBER Saturday 4 TBD Home Missouri Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 11 TBD Home Ole Miss Athens, GA (Sanford Stadium) Saturday 18 TBD Away Tennessee Knoxville, TN Saturday 25 TBD Away Georgia Tech Atlanta, GA UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA 20 23 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE *Conference Bold Team: Home Event DATE OPPONENT NOTES GAME TIME SEPTEMBER Saturday 9 Southeastern Waleska 12:00 p.m. Saturday 16 at Cumberlands (KY) 1:30 p.m. Saturday 23 Georgetown Waleska 12:00 p.m. OCTOBER Saturday 7 Pikeville* 1:30 p.m. Saturday 14 at St. Andrews* 12:00 p.m. Saturday 21 at Point* Homecoming 1:00 p.m. Saturday 28 Union* Waleska 12:00 p.m. NOVEMBER Saturday 4 at Kentucky Christian* 12:00 p.m. Saturday 11 Bluefield (VA)* Waleska 12:00 p.m. 20 23 REINHARDT FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Listen LIVE on WLJA 101.1 FM Radio!

ETOWAH 2023

FOOTBALL SEASON SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT

August 18 vs Lassiter

August 25 at Cherokee

September 1 at Forsyth Central

September 8 vs Centennial

September 15 at Sequoyah

September 22 FALL BREAK

September 29 vs Creekview

October 6 BYE

October 13 vs Woodstock

October 20 at Allatoona

For Vinny Pacini, the free safety at Etowah High School, the new defensive schemes for Etowah will be something to watch. Etowah has some new faces coaching the team this year, which can be challenging. With cool self-possession, Vinny says, “I like the new defensive scheme. We have new coaches, so we’re learning some new ways of doing things, and I love the new defense they’re putting together right now.” He explains, “I love a 3-4 scheme. I just like feeling like I’m in the middle of the defense, like I’m driving the defensive plays. I like being in the play every play.”

Free safeties tend to be some of the hardest hitters in football, and Vinny is no exception. “I definitely do like to hit,” he says with a grin.

Vinny moved from the offense last year, so he has skills on both sides of the field. Rival Cherokee teams take warning: Vinny’s offensive background gives him an innate ability to read the play, and his speed and athleticism will be solid weapons on the gridiron this season.

Vinny is looking at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga after high school. While he’d love the opportunity to play football in college, he has a practical side. Vinny hopes to major in business, where his natural leadership skills and outstanding academics will serve him well.

#3Vinny Pacini

Etowah
eagles
Player Profile by Shannon Sickmon, Woodstock Resident
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When Patrick Kellaher posted on Cherokee Connect that he wanted to start a semiprofessional football team in Cherokee County, the response was overwhelming. In a few weeks Patrick teamed with John Little and “Unc”

Randy Fowler to create the Cherokee County Bruins, a semipro football team consisting of fifty-six local players ranging in age from seventeen to thirty-seven years old.

The team’s goal is to become a direct avenue to professional leagues wherein the players play with the Bruins for one season and then springboard to the big leagues. Patrick now proudly refers to Cherokee County as “Bruins Country.”

WELCOME TO

We are raising the bar for semipro football by becoming the gold standard,” John says. Using the foundations of Passion, Physical, Professional, and Philanthropic, the players are required to play passionately and physically tough on the field, act professionally, and serve philanthropically. He explains further, “Everyone in this organization is treated as professionals, so we can provide every resource available to be successful and community-minded.”

With this community-minded approach, the Bruins held a golf tournament to raise money for breast cancer research and also held its first Annual Youth Camp, which hosted fifty youth campers. The team has also aligned with Cherokee Youth Football Association, which welcomes elementary-aged players.

Randy promises, “The Bruins will continue to support Cherokee County through fundraising, volunteering for charity, [and] whatever is necessary to make a difference and give back to the community—a community that already showed so much love before we even played a regular game.”

Let’s continue to show some love and rally ’round our Bruins at Cherokee Veterans Park this fall to cheer them on to victory.

The owners wish to give a huge shout-out to their coaching staff, all of whom volunteer their time to coach and lead the Bruins.

Russell Bailey Semipro Coach

Todd Davis Defensive Assistant Coordinator

Brett Brown Special Teams Coach

Billy Reid Running Back Coach

Mike Anderson Offensive Line Coach

CHEROKEE COUNTY BRUINS 20 23 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Summer 2023 Roster

‘‘ NO. NAME POS 1 Graham, Mack QB 2 Williams, Zac K 6 Bilingsley, Connor P 8 Hankins, Travis QB 10 Mitchell, Ronald WR 11 Soleberry, Clarence WR 12 Chatmon, Jaylin SB 13 Moore, David WR 14 Renaud, TJ WR 15 Thomas, PJ QB 16 Harris, David P 17 Christian Sr, Joshua WR 18 Brown, Demetrius WR 19 Goss Jr, Zach WR 20 Brown, Marquis CB 21 Butler, Austin RB 22 Parks, Kendall DE 23 Reaves, Chad RB 24 Lester, Cameron CB 25 Garner-Twitty, Xavier DB 26 Herrod, J’Vonte RB 27 Washington, Vincent DB 28 Dupree, Pat RB 29 Lotts, Jeremy DB 30 Dixon, Bryson LB·DB 31 Mostiller, Josh DB 32 Jones, Tanner DB 33 Hawkins, Trevon RB 34 Jackson, Andre RB 35 Tamlin II, Eric CB 36 McCoy, TJ RB 37 Pierce, Nikko LB 39 Keithley, Jay DB 40 Colburn, Tommy LB 41 West, Kyle LB 43 Mitchell, Cornelius DL 44 Love, Tyler DL 45 Rak, Kai LB·FB 49 McDaniel, Colt TE 51 Goedig, Malique OL 52 Perry, Austin LB 55 Jackson, Todd DL 56 Kapanowski, Michael OL 66 Lewis, Druw OL 68 Harrison, Ben OL 69 Thompson, Warren OL 71 McCoy, Shawn OL 74 Cook, Landon OL 77 Barday, Michael OL 79 Jarrett, Antonio OL 80 Craig, Gary WR
Gatlin, Ladarius WR 88 Barnwell, Miles WR 90 Dickson, Jabari DL 91 Mitchell, Jacob DL 92 Hayes, Jay DL 95 Carrillo, Alex DL
85
29 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
DATE GAME TIME OPPONENT LOCATION SEPTEMBER Saturday 2 7:00 p.m. @ Georgia Ravens 166 Recreation Road, Gray, GA Saturday 9 7:00 p.m. @ Clayton County Spartans Saturday 16 6:00 p.m. @ Mob City Avengers South Doyle High School
30 [EnjoyCherokee.com] MILESTONES
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isn’t an article about beer. Yes, the beer at Reformation Brewery is excellent and comes in many types. You’ll find heavy lagers, light beers, shandies, beers with fruit, a patriotic beer that benefits veterans, sours, and even beer with cats on the cans. Now the brewery is also making spirits. Undoubtedly there is something for everyone to love at Reformation, but this article goes deeper. It’s about how ten years ago, a Cherokee County man, his wife, and his friends followed a crazy dream and made something inviting where the whole community could come together.

Looking Back

Spencer Nix, cofounder and CEO of Reformation Brewery, is in a reflective mood these days. Spencer just celebrated twenty-five years of marriage to his lovely wife, Paula, who is like a big hug of bubbles. His oldest child is off to college this fall, and the brewery he and his friend Nick accidentally started is turning ten. Those milestones are significant.

Kicking back with Spencer at one of the Reformation tap houses, you’ll see that he looks like a man who has reached a calm place. Spencer is effortlessly likable, tall, handsome, and has a gentle smile he throws around generously. He feels good these days and says, “Right now my family, the business, and the kids are all in the best place they have ever been.”

You might think Spencer was born to be the proprietor of a brewhouse all along. Not quite.

From Pulpit to Brewer

No, becoming the owner of a brewery was not the plan. The CEO of this thriving company went to Southern Baptist Seminary and was a pastor for ten years. While Spencer was still pastoring, he and longtime friend Nick Downs, who also went to seminary and is a Delta pilot, enjoyed sharing the international beers Nick brought back from his travels. When Nick moved up to flying 777s and going to places like South Africa and Japan—not known for their beers—it seemed like the party might be over. Not ones to give up, they decided to try brewing the European-style beers they were missing. It was good, and word spread.

Somehow it became a whole thing, with people driving in from other states and musicians playing. At times there were up to 150 people on brew night. Chatter built among the friends about funding an actual brewery.

1 Sometimes called "Woodstock's Backyard," Reformation Brewery on Elm Street is a community-favorite gathering spot. 2 Reformation's brews can be found on the menu at restaurants near and far, including Garland Mountain Bar & Grill of Waleska. Turn to page 42 for our restaurant review of Garland Mountain Bar & Grill, including the delicious Peach Cuban Sandwich pictured here. 3 Cheers to community! Reformation Brewery was built on the foundations of acceptance, authenticity, humility, story, moderation, and humor. 4 Local country artist Thomas Fountain headlined the 2022 Cadence Fair; this year's lineup features headliner Jonathan Peyton. 5 Raise a glass to ten years of Reformation on Saturday, October 14, for the 10th Annual Cadence Fair. 6 During Reformation's recent Taylor Swift-themed night, fans of all ages belted out their favorite Taylor tunes on the karaoke stage. 7 As Reformation grew from home brewing to hometown brewery, it opened an additional location at the historic Mill on Etowah in downtown Canton, where the majority of its products are now brewed. 8 Reformation's Cadence is described as "a dry, easy drinking take on the Belgian Dubbel [with] a deep fruit aroma with hints of caramel, figs, and Belgian candi sugar."

31 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
This
The story did start with beer, though.
Nick Downs, cofounder; Paul Hamill, lead distiller; and Spencer Nix, cofounder and CEO. [L-R] Woodstock

North Georgia Made Makers - a miniseries by Reformation featuring the stories behind our fellow North Georgia makers.

A multi-episode miniseries featuring the stories behind North Georgia Made products and the makers of this handcrafted community.

Reformation is proudly North Georgia Made and believes in the authentic and handcrafted approach to local, artisan-made products.

Paula says things got real when, “Our friend Clay Mahaffey and his family took us out for lunch and told us if Spencer and Nick wanted to open a brewery, he was prepared to invest. I went home and thought, ‘Wow, we are really doing this.’ I knew who I married; he is a true entrepreneur—we had to do this.”

With the support of investors and friends, Nick and Spencer were ready to go pro.

Going Big Time

On October 31, 2013, at 500 Arnold Mill Way in Woodstock, Reformation Brewery opened its doors, intending to serve good beer and create community by stimulating great conversation. And praise be to Saint Augustine, the patron saint of brewers, printers, and theologians (maybe it wasn’t such a leap from pastor to brewer), it worked!

At first Reformation Brewery was the smallest brewer in the state, brewing one barrel at a time, with no paid employees. Word of a local brewery where you could tour and purchase tickets for beers spread like wildfire. By 2016 Reformation had amped production up to 5,000 barrels.

In 2017 Reformation and other craft brewers pushed for and saw the passing of Senate Bill 85, which allowed craft brewers to sell directly to

customers. Spencer took his kids to the Capitol to show them the government at work.

By then things were flying at Reformation, and it was time to open another location.

The second location at 105 Elm Street in Woodstock is a research and development brewhouse, with two brew bars and one outside, a large deck, and a beer garden shaded by the crowning glory of the entire establishment, a massive elm.

Reformation also needed more room for production, so it opened a new location at Canton’s The Mill on Etowah in 2017 on the aptly named Reformation Parkway, where most of the beer is now brewed. Most recently the brand expanded beyond Cherokee County with a small taproom in Smyrna, Georgia.

You would have to look hard in Cherokee County to find someone who hasn’t had an experience with one of Reformation’s taprooms; they are cornerstones of the communities they serve. From community group meet-ups—including Reformation Books & Brews book club and MilVet Community veterans’ group—to live music, pop-up markets, silent discos, Galentine’s celebrations, trivia nights, yoga workshops, tailgate parties, fundraisers, and more, Reformation’s events draw in community members of all ages, interests, and backgrounds to meet and get to know each other.

32 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
‘‘ ’’
Episode 1: A Leap of FaithNate Bridges and the Story of Alpine Leather Co.

All this growth needs employees, and Reformation strives to hire staff that share its core values of acceptance, listening for common ground, authenticity, humility, and humor.

A great example of the company’s missional approach to business is the story of Jonathan Chambers.

Enjoy Cherokee shared in its May/June 2023 edition how Jonathan and his family benefited from community support as Jonathan’s wife, Allie, battled cancer and ultimately passed away. After some time of intense grieving with his three daughters, Jonathan knew it was time to reenter the workforce.

After some thought and prayer, he decided to discuss it with his good friend, Spencer Nix, who had been a big support to his family. Jonathan says, “I showed him my strengths and asked for suggestions on where to begin. To my surprise he felt I was a really good fit for a spot they had been looking [to fill].”

Jonathan was a little nervous. As “Uber Dad,” driving his three young girls all over Cherokee County for activities, he needed flexibility, but he soon learned Spencer’s philosophy is “You are your own entrepreneur; be at the meetings, do your job well, and make it work for your family.” Jonathan enjoys what he calls Reformation’s “scrappy culture” that makes what is becoming a big enterprise seem small town, because it is in the people business.

Words from Paula and Spencer

It seems that in addition to beer, gratitude is on tap at Reformation, even among its owners. Gratitude is a common thread in conversations about the past ten years. Spencer and Paula express their heartfelt gratitude to the community for embracing them with open arms. Yes, they, their investors, and friends took the risks and did the hard work, but the community showed up big time. Paula smiles, remembering, “During [the pandemic], people were doing everything possible to keep us going. They were picking up beer, buying shirts, and even buying dog collars for dogs they didn’t own.”

This is it…

’’

Spencer says he felt he had a moment of clarity at a recent event.

In July Reformation in Woodstock celebrated Taylor Swift’s Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) album release with an event that Spencer says was one of the busiest Friday nights in Reformation’s history. In true Swiftie style, there was karaoke and tunes from DJ Queen, friendship bracelets, juice pouches, and purple mocktails.

Spencer says he looked on as one of the regulars smiled, chuckled, and remarked, “What on earth is going on?” Spencer says, “It was amazing; people of all ages, huge smiles on everyone’s faces, dancing and singing, everyone engaging with each other, no phones out. I just thought, ‘This is it, this is why we did this,’ the whole community coming together and having a great time.”

Reformation Brewery is a lot of things to many people, and Spencer acknowledges things there aren’t perfect; it’s full of broken people, like everywhere else. Maybe that is why so many patrons say Reformation Brewery feels like home to them.

Spencer adds, “We aspire to inspire deeper happiness by celebrating the reformer in you.”

And that aspiration is way bigger than beer.

Reformation Brewery

is hosting the 10th Annual Cadence Fair on Saturday, October 14, in Woodstock featuring headliner Jonathan Peyton, plus Hunter Blalock, Shane Byous Band, Cody Bolden, Brother & The Hayes, Chad Patterson, Jamie Talley, Kurt Lee Wheeler, & DJ II Tone Def.

Did you Know?

In 2022 Reformation’s Woodstock location served over 300,000 customers across the state, the Canton location served over 100,000 customers, and the Smyrna location served over 20,000 customers.

33 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
This Swiftie is in her Reformation era. (Photo Credit: Lindsay Ann Photography)
‘‘
Members of Reformation's exclusive Letterman Club enjoy early access to barrel-aged products, members-only swag, year-round discounts, and invitation-only events.
36 [EnjoyCherokee.com]

ACWORTH

Pizza, Pints, & Pigskins

September 9, Logan Farm Park

Local Restaurant Tastings, Kid Zone, Televised Football Games, People’s Choice Vote, Free Admission

Annual Harvest Vendor Market

September 23, Qualusi Vineyards

Grape Stomping, Vendors, Live Music

Halloween JamBOOree

October 21, Logan Farm Park

Games, Rides, Food, Music, Trick-or-Treating, Costume Contest

BALL GROUND

ROCKtoberfest

September 29—October 1,

RockSolid Brewing Co.

Live Music, Authentic German Brats, Food & Drink Specials, Games, Giveaways

Ball Ground Rocks Festival

October 7, Downtown Ball Ground

Food Trucks, Vendor Market, Live Music, Kids Area

BLAIRSVILLE

Mountain Heritage Festival

September 2—September 3,

Historic Downtown Square

Local Arts & Crafts, Nightly Concerts, Artisan Demonstrations

Blairsville Sorghum Festival

October 14—October 15,

October 21—October 22, Meeks Park

Sorghum Syrup Makers, Biscuit

Eating Contest, Live Music, Parade, Demonstrations, Crafts

Vogel Fall Festival

October 28, Vogel State Park

Live Music, Food Trucks, Vendor Market, Hayrides, Trick-or-Treating

Blairsville Boo Bash

October 31, Meeks Park

Trick-or-Treating, Community Involvement, Free Admission

BLUE RIDGE

12th Annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival

September 16, Downtown Blue Ridge

Live Music, Train Ride, Block Party, BBQ Food Trucks

Fall Arts in the Park

October 14—October 15,

Downtown City Park

170 Artists & Exhibitors, Demonstrations, Food Vendors, Rain-or-Shine

CANTON

Multicultural Festival

September 9, Etowah River Park

Live Music, Entertainment Stage, International Foods, Community Outreach, Soccer Tournament

Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival

September 23—September 24, Etowah River Park

150 Artists & Crafters, Children’s Area, Live Football Broadcasts, Food Trucks, Entertainment Stage

Taste & Brews Fall Festival

October 14—October 15, Etowah River Park

Food & Drink Vendors, Live Music, Arts & Crafts Market, Free Admission, Rain-or-Shine

The Great Pumpkin Fest

October 21, Cherokee Veterans Park

Food, Vendors, DJ, Hayrides, Costume Contest, Crafts, Archery, Trick-or-Treating, Free Admission

Barnaroo

October 21, 2793 Univeter Road

Live Music Festival, Food & Drink Vendors, Rain-or-Shine, Pet Friendly Denim Fest

October 27—October 28,

The Mill on Etowah

Trick-or-Treating, Kids’ Costume Contest, Carnival Zone, BBQ Cook Off, Live Music, Football Broadcast

CARTERSVILLE

Rose Lawn Fall Arts Festival

September 16—September 17, Rose Lawn Museum

Fine Art & Heritage Craft Exhibits, Paintings, Sculptures, Juried Exhibition

Downtown Alive

October 21, Downtown Cartersville

Live Music All Day, Food Trucks, Retail

Vendors, Kids Area

West Fest

October 28, Booth Western Art Museum

Live Music, Food Trucks, Rodeo, Petting Zoo, Vendor Market, Native American Dancing

CHATSWORTH

Black Bear Festival

October 21—October 22, Murray County Recreation Department

Live Music, Arts & Crafts Vendors, Food Vendors, Free Bounce Houses

CUMMING

Cumming Country Fair & Festival

October 5—October 15, Cumming Fairgrounds

Concert Lineup, Fair Food, Midway Rides, Entertainment Acts

Catoberfest 2023

October 7, Fowler Park

Free Admission, Live Music, Silent Auction, Artisan & Vendor Market, Food Vendors

DAHLONEGA

Gold Rush Days Festival

October 21—October 22, Dahlonega Square

Parade, Craft Vendors, Food Vendors, Live Music, Dancing

ELLIJAY

Cartecay Crush Festival

September 23—September 24, Cartecay Vineyards

Grape Stomping, Live Music, Wine Tastings, Vineyard Tours, Arts & Crafts Vendors

Ellijay Bacon Fest

September 24, Gilmer River Park

Local Restaurant Tastings, Live Music, Arts & Crafts, Games, Free Admission

Georgia Apple Festival

October 14—October 15, October 21—October 22,

Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds

Vendor Market, Parade, Kids Zone, 5K, Classic Car Show, Free Admission, Rain-or-Shine

Dancing Goats FolkFest

October 28—October 29, Gilmer River Park

Juried Folk Art Show, Live Music, Goat Pageants, Food Vendors

EUHARLEE

Euharlee Covered Bridge Fall Festival

October 14, Frankie Harris Park

Food, Entertainment, Arts & Crafts, Hayrides, Trick-or-Treating, Haunted House, Free Admission

2023
Guide

HELEN

53rd Annual Helen Oktoberfest

September 7—September 10, September 14—September 17, September 21—September 24, September 28—October 29, Helen Festhalle

Parade, Keg Tapping, German Brats & Food, Live Music, Authentic German Beers

HIAWASSEE

Georgia Mountain Fall Festival

October 6—October 14,

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Concert Lineup, Arts & Crafts Vendors, Midway Rides, Artisan Demonstrations

JASPER

Sheriff’s Jeepfest

August 31—September 3, 8795 Hwy 53 East

Jeep® Obstacles, Trails, Mud, Concerts, Rides, Food

2nd Annual JAX Coffee Festival

September 17, JAX Coffee Company

Tastings, Vendors, Games, Raffles

41st Annual Georgia Marble Festival

October 7—October 8, Lee Newton Park

Arts & Crafts Market, Food Vendors, Quarry

Tours, Entertainment Stage, Kids Zone, Parade, 5K Run/Walk

KENNESAW

Oktoberfest 2023

September 29—October 1, Horned Owl Brewing

German Brews, Live Music, Authentic German Food Truck, Free Admission

Fall-O-Ween

October 7, Swift-Cantrell Park

Carnival Games, Trick-or-Treating, Costume Contest

MARIETTA

North Georgia State Fair

September 21—October 1, Jim R. Miller Park

Midway Rides, Live Entertainment Stage, Petting Zoo, Circus, Bull Riding, Food & Drink Vendors

MILTON

Crabapple Fest

October 7, Crabapple Road

100 Local Antiques & Arts Vendors, Food Vendors, Football Broadcasts, Pet Friendly, Rain-or-Shine

MINERAL BLUFF

Ride the Rails Festival

October 14—October 15,

November 24—November 25, Historic L&N Depot

Train Rides, Model Railroads, and more PERRY

Georgia National Fair

October 5—October 15,

Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter

Concert Lineup, Fair Food, Midway Rides, Fireworks, Entertainment Acts, Arts & Crafts Exhibitors

PINE MOUNTAIN

Hot Air Balloon Glow

September 1—September 3, Callaway

Resort & Gardens

Balloon Glow, Fireworks Show, Butterfly Center, Robin Lake Beach Access

STONE MOUNTAIN

Yellow Daisy Festival

September 7—September 10, Stone

Mountain Park

400 Artists and Crafters, Festival Food, Crafter Demonstrations, Vintage Village

TALKING ROCK

1st Annual Grape Stomp Festival

September 16, Canoe Vineyard & Winery

Grape Stomping, Live Music, Food Truck, Vendors, Games, Wine Tastings

2023 Guide

Talking Rock Heritage Days

October 21—October 22, Historic Downtown Talking Rock

Arts & Crafts Vendors, Antiques, Free Bounce Houses, Food Vendors, Rain-or-Shine, Free Admission

TATE

Tate Day Festival

November 4, Historic Downtown Tate

Parade, Arts & Crafts Vendors, Quarry Tours, Children’s Activities, Entertainment Stage

WOODSTOCK

WDSTKtoberfest

September 23—October 1, Downtown Woodstock

Bavarian Food & Beverage Specials, Keg Tapping with Mayor Michael Caldwell, Pub Crawl

Fall Art on The Green

October 7—October 8, Woodstock Arts Event Green

Local Artist Market, Food Vendors, Live Music

Cadence Fair

October 14, Reformation Brewery

Food & Drinks, Maker Market, Live Music with Headliner Jonathan Peyton

Halloween Trail of Tricks & Treats

October 31, Rubes Creek Trail

Trick-or-Treating, Games & Activities, Crafts, Kona Ice Truck, DJ, Free Admission

Día De Los Muertos Festival

November 4, Woodstock Arts Event Green

Live Music, Local Vendor Market, Community Ofrenda, Free Admission

Gallery

THE SERIES

GALLERY FIVE HIGHLIGHTS CHANGING TIMES, ENCOURAGES PRESERVATION

Gallery Five of the Cherokee County History Center is named in honor of Laura Spears Coogle, who has deep ties to the history of the community on both sides of her family. The daughter of lifelong Cherokee County residents James L. “Skip” Spears and Helen Jones Spears, Laura is the great-great-granddaughter of R.T. Jones, who founded Canton Cotton Mills in 1899.

On her father’s side of the family, Laura is the great-great-granddaughter of Joshua P. Spears, who was elected sheriff of Cherokee County in 1881, and the great-granddaughter of Lee Spears, elected sheriff in 1924 to follow in his father’s footsteps.

The Cherokee County History Center is located where the home of Laura’s great-grandparents, Mary Foute Jones and Paul Walker Jones, president of Jones Mercantile Company, originally stood. At the time Laura was young, though, her great-grandparents’ house no longer stood, and the Canton Post Office had been built on the site. That facility now houses the History Center. The location of the museum is special to Laura, because she recalls the area when she was growing up. “When I think of where the museum is, I remember how we would walk from handbells and choir practice at the First Baptist Church by the building that is now the museum, to Kessler’s or some other store on Main Street to buy candy,” she recalls. “Those were happy times for me.”

Laura now lives in the Virginia-Highlands area of Atlanta with her husband, George Herbert Coogle, III, and their twelve-year-old son, George Herbert Coogle, IV.

While she loves her new home, she fondly remembers her hometown of Canton and all that it offered as a place to grow up in the 1980s and 1990s.

“I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to grow up in Canton, because it was a real community where you got to know and interact with generations of families,” Laura reminisces.

“I feel rooted in Cherokee County and Canton because of my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, who all also grew up here.

To have had teachers at Cherokee High who knew my parents and to be so rooted in one community is special to me.”

Today Laura is a speech language psychologist in outpatient rehabilitation for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where she has worked for nineteen years. Laura works with children with developmental disabilities, autism, and apraxia, a motor speech disorder. Laura conducts one-on-one play-based therapy sessions with her patients. Educating parents about their children’s situations is also a big part of her job.

“I enjoy getting to know the patients and families and to be able to make real changes in their lives,” Laura explains. “Making parents’ lives easier by helping them to find out how their child can communicate more effectively is extremely important and rewarding as well.”

These days Laura is busy keeping up with her job, family, and son, who has an interest in golf and might just follow in a famous ancestor’s footsteps. Legendary golfer Bobby Jones, the only player to have ever won the Grand Slam of all four major championships in one calendar year, is one of Laura’s ancestors. After retiring from competitive golf in 1930, Bobby Jones founded and helped design the Augusta National Golf Club and cofounded the Masters Tournament. Laura says she hopes “those Bobby Jones genes show up” and notes that her son, George, recently played at Canton Golf Club, made special because the famous golfer helped design that course for his family in Canton.

Gallery Five, named in honor of Laura, shares the story of the later years of Cherokee County, beginning in the 1970s and into the 1980s and 1990s, when rapid changes and growth almost tripled the population from 51,699 residents in 1980 to 141,903 people in 2000. Forests and farmland were giving way to subdivisions as more people flocked to the county.

The gallery also has exhibits about the Cherokee County Airport and Dixie Speedway, as well as a special display highlighting how historic preservation benefits the community.

SPEARS COOGLE

THE CHEROKEE COUNTY HISTORY CENTER is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m.

Located at 221 East Marietta Street in Canton, History Cherokee provides free parking for guests. There is also a free public-use parking garage across from the History Center at 200 West Marietta Street.

Admission to the museum is $9 for adults and $7 for children ages five to fourteen as well as seniors over sixty-five. Admission for children under the age of four is free. All History Cherokee members also receive free admission.

For more information visit HistoryCherokee.org.

HIGHLIGHTING THE HISTORICAL NAMESAKES OF THE HISTORY CHEROKEE GALLERIES
Laura 41 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
by Rebecca Johnston, Canton Resident Sheriff Joshua P. Spears R.T. Jones
HAYDEN’S REVIEW
Smoked Loaded Nachos topped with House-smoked Brisket, paired with Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade made with Leadslingers Bourbon Peach Cuban Sandwich with Jalapeño Coleslaw Photography for Hayden’s Review by RWernerPhoto.com

GARLAND

WITHIN A PICTURESQUE

MOUNTAIN RANGE where nature’s beauty intertwines with the essence of rustic charm, a culinary haven promises an extraordinary dining experience. Welcome to the enchanting world of Garland Mountain Bar & Grill.

Nestled amid the awe-inspiring landscapes and rolling hills of Waleska, Garland Mountain Bar & Grill beckons you to savor the wonders of nature while indulging in flavors that will leave you captivated.

Make your way up a winding path to this hidden gem, and the tranquil surroundings and fresh mountain air set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Upon arrival at Garland Mountain Bar & Grill, you’ll be greeted by the warm smiles of the staff, whose genuine hospitality will make you feel like an honored guest. The crackling fireplace, cozy wooden furnishings, and earthy tones create a setting that feels like a home away from home. Aromas wafting from the decadent food captivate your senses, teasing your appetite with promises of delectable creations.

Garland Mountain Bar & Grill’s culinary artisans, led by Head Chef Sean Lynn, are experts in their craft, weaving together the finest ingredients with innovative techniques that celebrate the bounties of nature. A selection of the grill’s fresh ingredients is locally sourced through Wilkes Meat Market of Ball Ground, Smoky Mountain Produce, also in Ball Ground, and Garland Mountain Farms in Waleska.

Picture this: A menu ranging from tender, perfectly grilled steaks; juicy burgers bursting with flavor; and fresh, crisp salads that celebrate the season’s harvest, and for those seeking a taste of adventure, the chef’s specials promise surprises that delight your taste buds.

Menu Says: Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade

Muddled blackberries, Leadslingers Bourbon, & lemonade

Hayden Says: The Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade is an ode to the artistry of mixology and a testament to the creative fusion of sweetness and richness of Leadslingers Bourbon. The infusion of muddled blackberries creates a captivating visual appeal and adds a natural, slightly tart undertone that perfectly balances the drink’s sweetness. The heart of the cocktail lies in the choice of Leadslingers Bourbon, a premium Americanmade spirit that boasts depth of flavor. The bourbon’s warm caramel notes harmonize with the blackberry essence, while its smoky undertones provide a comforting, lingering finish. The result is a cocktail that is both visually stunning and an absolute pleasure to the senses. Served over ice, the Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade captivates with its aromatic bouquet, inviting you to indulge in a luxurious and well-rounded drinking experience.

Menu Says: Smoked Loaded Nachos

Hayden Says: A nacho combination that’s “nacho average” nachos, packed with diverse flavors and savory add-ons. The lush slices of avocado add a velvety touch, with a crisp bite to add to the perfect crunch. The star of the show, the house smoked brisket, then makes its grand entrance. Tender and smoky, it harmonizes flawlessly with the other ingredients, infusing the dish with a bold, meaty flavor.

43 [EnjoyCherokee.com]

Menu Says: Fried Green Tomatoes

Hayden Says: Combining classic Southern fried green tomatoes with innovative flavors and ingredients, this appetizer is a crowd favorite. Lightly breaded in a delectable sea-salt and pepper plank, the tomatoes are a delight to the taste buds. The combination of crispy, golden-brown breading and the refreshing tang of the green tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of queso fresco on top takes this dish to a whole new level of creamy indulgence. The queso fresco’s creamy, mild flavor complements the zesty kick of the red pepper aioli drizzle, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

Menu Says: Charleston Grit Cake

Hayden Says: With a crispy exterior that gives way to a velvety, comforting center, the Charleston Grit Cake displays divine culinary craftsmanship. The inclusion of smoked gouda elevates this classic dish to new heights, infusing each bite with a subtle smokiness and indulgent creaminess that dances across the palate. The addition of bacon jalapeño cream sauce, a stroke of genius, introduces a hint of heat that tantalizes the senses. The sauce, rich and velvety, weaves its magic around the shrimp and grit cake, creating a comforting, exhilarating, seamless fusion. The play of colors—golden grit cake, vibrant shrimp, and creamy sauce—is a treat for the eyes. For those seeking a remarkable gastronomic journey, the Charleston Grit Cake is an absolute must-try.

Menu Says: Pastrami Reuben

Hayden Says: Tender, succulent, and bursting with rich, smoky goodness, each bite is a journey through layers of perfectly seasoned meat cooked to perfection. The tangy pickled red cabbage provides a delightful contrast, adding a burst of brightness that impeccably balances the richness of the pastrami. Elevating this Pastrami Reuben to a league of its own is the diligence in the detail. The bread, a flawless rye, is toasted to a golden crisp, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the melted cheddar acts as a luxurious glue that holds this symphony of flavors together.

Menu Says: Peach Cuban

Hayden Says: The rich and succulent elements of pulled pork and ham adorned with layers of Swiss cheese that melt into a creamy symphony will make you order another to go, to eat later. The unexpected twist of a peach mustard sauce

adds a delicate sweetness to the savory meats. Tucked between slices of perfectly pressed Texas toast, the sandwich is elevated with the zesty kick of pickles,

The wonders of Garland Mountain Bar & Grill don’t stop at the main course. Its sumptuous desserts are crafted with the same passion and dedication, offering a sweet finale that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.

Menu Says: Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Hayden Says: Savor the ultimate fall comfort dessert with homemade bread pudding lovingly crafted to warm your heart and soul. The tender, custard-soaked bread melts in your mouth, evoking a sense of nostalgia and contentment with a hint of cinnamon, of course. Between the taste and texture, an interplay of warm and cold delight your taste buds with a rich vanilla-bean ice cream paired to balance the warm sensations of the bread pudding.

Menu Says: Turtle Molten Lava Cake

Hayden Says: Chocolate lovers will appreciate a hearty bite of chocolate, candied pecans, and caramel in every bite. Amid this divine chocolate embrace you’ll uncover delicate nuggets of toasted pecans, adding a crunch that harmonizes with the smoothness of the chocolate and silkiness of the caramel. The warmth of the cake, the oozing indulgence of the chocolate, the playful dance of caramel, and the nutty whispers of pecans create a symphony that leaves you fully satisfied.

What sets Garland Mountain Bar & Grill apart is the attentive and gracious staff members who treat every guest like a cherished friend. Their warm smiles and genuine hospitality create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, making you feel welcome to your home away from home in the mountains.

Whether you seek a romantic dinner with a view, a family celebration in nature’s splendor, or simply a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Garland Mountain Bar & Grill is the perfect destination. Here the passion for exceptional food, the beauty of the outdoors, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones intertwine, crafting an experience that nourishes both body and soul.

2618 Garland Mountain Trail, Waleska

Wednesday–Saturday: 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

44 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Pastrami Reuben with Onion Rings
44 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
Turtle Molten Lava Cake Fried Green Tomatoes
“When this beast of a sandwich arrived I was astonished at the tower of brisket. One bite was enough to make this Wisconsin cheesemaker a firm believer in finding quality cheese in Waleska. Well done, Garland Mountain!”
—Cindy Meyer | Spencer, Wisconsin
45 [EnjoyCherokee.com]

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Ingredients

3 cups shredded chicken

2 tbsp. butter

⅛ tsp. garlic powder

⅛ tsp. onion powder

8 oz. cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup bleu cheese crumbles

¾ cup Frank’s® Red Hot® hot sauce

¼ cup ranch dressing

¼ cup sour cream

1 scallion, thinly sliced

Celery sticks for serving

Potato Chips

Begin the Fun

Be

1. Combine the chicken, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, cream cheese, ½ cup cheddar, ¼ cup blue cheese, Frank’s® Red Hot® hot sauce, ranch dressing, and sour cream in a crock pot. Cover and cook on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

2. When the dip is bubbling and the cheese has melted, top with remaining cheddar and bleu cheese. Cover and cook until melted and combined, 5 to 10 minutes more.

3. Garnish with scallions and serve with celery sticks and potato chips for dipping.

Cheesy Meatball Sliders

Ingredients

2 lbs. lean ground beef (90% lean)

1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

3 tbsp. prepared pesto

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce

1 pkg. (18 ounces) Hawaiian sweet rolls

12 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese

½ tsp. dried oregano

¼ cup melted butter

1 tbsp. olive oil

Begin the Fun

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

2 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese or shredded Italian cheese blend

Minced fresh basil

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, pesto, and egg; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 12 meatballs; place on a greased rack in a 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Bake until browned and a thermometer reads 160°, about 35 minutes. Toss meatballs with sauce; set aside.

2. Meanwhile, without separating rolls, cut horizontally in half; arrange bottom halves in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Place half the cheese slices over roll bottoms; sprinkle with oregano. Add meatballs and sauce. Top with remaining cheese slices and bun tops.

3. Combine butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; brush over buns. Bake, covered, for 20 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with Parmesan and shredded mozzarella.

4. Bake, uncovered, until cheese is melted, 10-15 minutes longer. Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

46 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
from TasteOfHome.com
from AintTooProudToMeg.com
CREATIVE and use French Bread Dough, shape into a football and FILL WITH DIP! delish.com

White Chicken Chili from CookingClassy.com

Ingredients

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 tbsp. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 (14.5 oz.) cans low-sodium chicken broth

1 (7 oz.) can diced green chilies

1 ½ tsp. cumin

½ tsp. paprika

½ tsp. dried oregano

½ tsp. ground coriander

¼ tsp. cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 (8 oz.) pkg. Neufchatel cheese (light cream cheese), cut into small cubes

1 ¼ cup frozen or fresh corn

2 (15 oz.) cans cannellini beans

2 ½ cups shredded cooked rotisserie or left-over chicken

1 tbsp. fresh lime juice

2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving

Tortilla chips or strips, Monterrey jack cheese, sliced avocado for serving (optional)

Begin the Fun

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté 4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds longer.

2. Add chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring mixture just to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 15 minutes.

3. Drain and rinse beans in a fine mesh strainer or colander then measure out 1 cup. Set whole beans aside, transfer 1 cup beans to a food processor along with ¼ cup broth from soup, puree until nearly smooth.

4. Add Neufchatel cheese to soup along with corn, whole beans, and pureed beans and stir well. Simmer 5-10 minutes longer.

5. Stir in chicken, fresh lime juice, and cilantro. Serve with Monterrey Jack cheese, more cilantro, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired.

Ingredients

10–12 medium apples (assorted types), quartered

2 oranges, quartered (also peeled, for less tart cider*)

4 cinnamon sticks

1 tbsp. whole cloves

16 cups water, more or less

½ cup sweetener (brown sugar or maple syrup recommended)

Optional extra seasonings:

1 tsp. whole allspice, 1 whole nutmeg, and/or 1-inch fresh ginger

Begin the Fun

1. Combine your ingredients in a stockpot. Add the apples, oranges, cinnamon, cloves and (optional) extra seasonings to a large stockpot. Cover with water, leaving about an inch or two of space at the top of the stockpot.

2. Simmer. Heat the cider over high heat until it reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the apples are completely soft.

3. Mash the apples and oranges. Using a potato masher or a wooden spoon, take a minute to mash all of the apples and oranges against the side of the stockpot to release more of their flavors. Then cover and simmer for 1 more hour.

4. Strain. Using a fine-mesh strainer or a cheesecloth, strain out all of the solids (apples, oranges, spices), pressing them against the strainer to release all of their juices. Discard the solids.

5. Sweeten. Stir in your desired amount of sweetener, to taste.

6. Serve warm. Then, your cider is all ready to go! For extra presentation points, try adding a few fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks back to the stockpot for pretty serving. Saving it for later? Let the cider cool to room temperature, then transfer to a sealed pitcher and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Jazz up your Apple Cider with delicious CINNAMON STICKS!

47 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
fromGimmeSomeOven
com

Downtown Canton

First Friday

Friday, September 1

Experience The Purple Madness, a tribute to music legend Prince.

2023

Friday 1

2 Saturday

5 Tuesday

8 Friday

9 Saturday

11 Monday

Head Back to Hogwarts

Harry Potter themed event Reformation Brewery, Woodstock

6:00–11:00 p.m. ReformationBrewery.com

Downtown Canton First Friday

MUSIC The Purple Madness, a tribute to Prince Historic Downtown Canton

6:00–9:00 p.m. | All ages ExploreCantonGA.com

Canton Farmers Market

MARKET 2023 Season Closing Day

Cannon Park, Canton

9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. CantonGA.gov

Fantasy Football Draft Party

The Daily Draft Tap Room & Bar 8594 Main Street, Woodstock

5:00 p.m. | Call to Reserve Space TheDailyDraft.net

Northside Auxiliary Golf Fundraiser Golf Tournament

Fairways of Canton, Canton 9:00 a.m. | Register Northside.com

Chili Cook-Off

Presented by Project Hero

The Mill on Etowah, Canton Noon–5:00 p.m. WeAreProjectHero.org

Football Make n’ Takes WORKSHOP Re-Purposed-Ful 5101 Old Highway 5, Canton 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | $10 re-purposed-ful.com

6 Wednesday

History of Canton

Presented by History Cherokee R.T. Jones Memorial Library, Canton 11:00 a.m.–Noon | FREE SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Private Eyes MUSIC Hall & Oates Tribute The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska

7:30 p.m. | Tickets Reinhardt.edu/Falany

Patriot Day Ceremony

Presented by Cherokee County Canton Rotary Park, Canton 8:30 a.m. CherokeeGA.com

Pie Bar 8th Birthday!

Little Free Pie-Brary Book Exchange

8720 Main Street, Woodstock

11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. OrderPieBar.com

Jesse's Gift

FILM Screening & Concert

The Mill on Etowah, Canton 7:00–10:00 p.m. | FREE EtowahMill.com

Italian Renaissance Wines

Wine Tasting at Fermented

The Mill on Etowah, Canton

4:00–7:00 p.m. | Tickets FermentedATL.com

Minis at The Mill Interactive Activities for Kids

The Mill on Etowah, Canton 10:00–11:00 a.m. | FREE EtowahMill.com

To Serve with Love Fundraiser Tennis Tournament

Cherokee Tennis Center, Woodstock

11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | Register CircleOfFriendsInc.org

100th Birthday Gala

R.T. Jones Memorial Library

116 Brown Ind. Pkwy, Canton

7:00–8:30 p.m. | FREE SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Turn Light

MUSIC Feathers Edge Vineyards 10061 Ball Ground Hwy, Ball Ground 6:00–9:00 p.m. | FREE FeathersEdgeVineyards.com

The Curious Savage

THEATER Opening Night

Canton Theatre, Canton

8:00 p.m. | Tickets CherokeeTheatre.org

Russ Still MUSIC B&B Tavern, Free Home 12418 Cumming Highway, Canton 6:00 p.m. FreeHomeBAndBTavern.com

Adult Ballet Class

Theodora Dance Conservatory

The Mill on Etowah, Canton 6:00–7:00 p.m. TheodoraDanceConservatory.org

Trey Odum MUSIC Wicked Wings 3760 Sixes Road, Canton 8:00 p.m. WickedWingsBridgeMill.com

Drivin’ N’ Cryin’

MUSIC Summer Concert Series 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock

7:30–10:00 p.m. | FREE WoodstockConcertSeries.com

Day of Remembrance Ceremony

Presented by City of Woodstock Park at City Center, Woodstock

7:00 p.m. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

14 Thursday Coffee with a Cop Circle of Friends Coffee Shop 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 9:00–10:30 a.m. WoodstockGA.gov/Police

15 Friday

Looking for fall festivals, fairs, and markets?

See our Fall Festival Guide for more details.

16 Saturday

22 Friday

Pumpkin Paint & Sip

M&M Mercantile Co.

The Mill on Etowah, Canton 6:00–8:30 p.m. | $60 MMMercantileCo.com

Fall Plant Sale

Cherokee Co. Master Gardeners 1001 Univeter Road, Canton 9:00 a.m.–Noon CherokeeMasterGardeners.com

Cruise-In Fundraiser

PoBoys Car Club

The Mill on Etowah, Canton

3:00 p.m. | All ages PoBoysCarClub.com

Open Play Pickleball

Dupree Park Pickleball Courts

513 Neese Road, Woodstock

6:00–9:00 p.m. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Wyatt Espalin

MUSIC Brown Bag Concert Series

Park at City Center, Woodstock Noon–1:00 p.m. | FREE WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Grains of Sand

MUSIC Outdoor Concert

The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska

7:00–9:00 p.m. | Tickets Reinhardt.edu/Falany

Touch-a-Truck

Cherokee Veterans Park 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton 9:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | All ages PlayCherokee.org

Flowers & Flames

WORKSHOP Made Mercantile

8636 Main Street, Woodstock

3:00–4:30 p.m. | $90 MadeMercantile.com

Cherokee R.A.P.S. Recovery & Prevention Summit

Woodstock City Church, Woodstock

6:00–9:00 p.m. | Family-friendly BeTheROCC.org

Taste of Woodstock Downtown Woodstock

111 Elm Street, Woodstock

5:00–9:00 p.m. TasteWoodstock.com

Mountain Gypsy MUSIC C'est La Vie 361 East Main Street, Canton 7:30–9:00 p.m. CestLaVieGeorgia.com

Storytime Live! with TMNT

Meet & Greet with Leonardo Park at City Center, Woodstock

11:00 a.m.–Noon | FREE WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Medicare 101 Rose Creek Public Library 4476 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock 5:30–6:30 p.m. | Register online SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

The Gold Standard Band MUSIC Sunset Concert Series West Milford Farm, Cumming 7:45–9:45 p.m. | Ages 21+ WestMilfordFarm.com

Mother-Son Camp Out Proctor Landing Park

5260 Proctor Landing Road, Acworth Sat., 1:00 p.m.–Sun., 10:00 a.m. Acworth.org

Cat Ridgeway Benefit Concert

MUSIC The Terraces at Big Canoe Chapel

1849 Steve Tate Highway, Marble Hill

6:00–9:00 p.m. | Fundraiser BigCanoeChapel.com

Champions

FILM Woodstock Arts Event Green

111 Elm Street, Woodstock

7:00–9:00 p.m. | FREE CircleOfFriendsInc.org

Freaky Friday THEATER Opening Night

The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska 7:30 p.m. | All ages Reinhardt.edu/Falany

48 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
[calendar of events] September

23

REV Anniversary Cruise-In by Car Community Connection

915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock

8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | All ages CarCommunityConnection.com

27

Wednesday

Saturday 28

Thursday

30

Saturday

Wine Tasting Event

Stout's Growlers

188 North Street, Canton

6:00–8:00 p.m. | $35 StoutsGrowlers.com

Waleska Farmers Market

MARKET 2023 Season Closing Day

8891 Fincher Road, Waleska

9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Find on Facebook

Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup

Lake Allatoona Association

Multiple Cleanup Sites

8:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | Volunteer LakeAllatoonaAssoc.com

September Dinner Party

Leaning Ladder Tasting Boutique

105 East Main Street, Woodstock

6:30–8:30 p.m. | $79 LeaningLadderOliveOil.com

Concert on the Green MUSIC Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Logan Farm Park, Acworth 5:00–10:00 p.m. Acworth.org

Fermented Natural Wine & Jazz Festival

Presented by Fermented Wine Boutique

The Mill on Etowah, Canton

5:00–8:00 p.m. | Tickets FermentedATL.com

Cherokee Career Expo 2023

Cherokee Office of Economic Development

1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton

2:00–6:00 p.m. | FREE CherokeeGA.org

WILKES

MUSIC Brown Bag Concert Series

Park at City Center, Woodstock Noon–1:00 p.m. | FREE WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Sixes Pit Group Bike Ride

Blankets Creek Bike Park

2261 Sixes Road, Canton 9:00–11:00 a.m. SORBAwoodstock.org

Parson James MUSIC Lantern Series

111 Elm Street, Woodstock

7:30–9:30 p.m. | Tickets WoodstockArts.org

WDSTK Walking Tour

Woodstock Visitors Center

8588 Main Street, Woodstock

6:00 p.m. | $5 VisitWoodstockGA.com

Blair Out Loud

MUSIC The Salty Mule

169 S. Church Street, Canton 6:00 p.m. TheSaltyMule.com

The Mad Hatters

MUSIC Tom Petty Tribute Band

The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska

7:30 p.m. | Tickets Reinhardt.edu/Falany

Unwind Wednesday Dinner, Nature Hike, & Archery

Cherokee Veterans Park, Canton 5:30–8:00 p.m. | FREE PlayCherokee.org

49 [EnjoyCherokee.com]

2023 Walk

Alzheimer's Saturday, October 21

1

Sunday

6

Friday

7

Saturday

8 Sunday

11 Wednesday

14 Saturday

Butterfly Run ATL 5K Benefiting Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Woodstock Arts Event Green, Woodstock

7:00 a.m. | Fundraiser ButterflyRunATL.com

Local Artist Showcase

VISUAL ARTS Reeves House 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock 6:00–9:00 p.m. | FREE WoodstockArts.org

Run, Walk, or Roll 5K

Benefiting Next Step Ministries

11905 Highway 92, Woodstock

7:00 a.m. | Fundraiser NextStepMinistries.net

First Friday MUSIC On The Border Eagles Tribute Cannon Park, Downtown Canton 6:00–9:00 p.m. | FREE CantonGA.gov

Pitness at The Mill

Fitness Festival & Competition

The Mill on Etowah, Canton

8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. | Fundraiser BarbellsForBullies.org

Woodstock Business Club

Reformation Brewery 105 Elm Street, Woodstock 8:30–9:30 a.m. WoodstockBusinessClub.com

Live Music at The Mill MUSIC The Mill on Etowah

225 Reformation Parkway, Canton 7:00–9:00 p.m. | FREE EtowahMill.com/Events

Build a Rescue Floatplane

Home Depot Kids Workshop

4520 Holly Springs Pkwy, Holly Springs

9:00 a.m.–Noon | Ages 4–12 HomeDepot.com

Lacrosse Golf Classic

Benefiting Sequoyah Men’s LAX Towne Lake Hills, Woodstock

9:00 a.m.

21

Saturday

Dream Again Lunch & Learn Presented by Serenade Heights 630 Olde Rope Mill Park Road, Woodstock Noon–1:00 p.m. SerenadeHeights.org

Etowah River Cleanup

Make

12 Thursday

Outlaw Apostles MUSIC Outdoor Concert

The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska

7:00–9:00 p.m. | Tickets Reinhardt.edu/Falany

small town:small works

VISUAL ARTS Opening Reception 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock

6:00–9:00 p.m. WoodstockArts.org

Ball

Karaoke Thursdays with Swing Shift Entertainment Choate BBQ, Ball Ground 6:30–9:30 p.m. ChoateBBQ.com

Woodstock Improv Troupe THEATER Woodstock Arts 8534 Main Street, Woodstock 7:30 p.m. | Ages 10+ WoodstockArts.org

Pop Up Market

MARKET Re-Purposed-Ful

5101 Old Highway 5, Canton 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. re-purposed-ful.com

Books & Brews Book Club Meeting Reformation Brewery, Woodstock 7:00–9:00 p.m. ReformationBrewery.com

Thirsty Thursdays Wine Tasting at Dot's 280 Gilmer Ferry Rd, Ball Ground 4:00–8:30 p.m. DotsFineWineAndCraft.com

The Loose Shoes Band MUSIC Gibbs Gardens 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground 5:00–8:00 p.m. GibbsGardens.com

Paws in the Pool Cherokee County Aquatic Center 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton Noon–4:30 p.m. | $10/dog

PlayCherokee.org

5 Thursday 15 Sunday 18 Wednesday Fresh Start Mornings Cherokee Office of Economic Development 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton 9:00–10:15 a.m. | FREE CherokeeGA.org

Downton Milly Costume Ball & Fundraiser Timbers on Etowah, Canton 7:00–10:00 p.m. | Fundraiser HomelessCoalitionCherokee.org

Clue THEATER Woodstock Arts 8534 Main Street, Woodstock 7:30 p.m. | Tickets WoodstockArts.org

16 Monday Monday Night Trivia TRIVIA Truck & Tap 8640 Main Street, Woodstock 7:30–10:30 p.m. LightsUpTrivia.com

Street, Woodstock 8:00–9:30 p.m. | Tickets MadLifeStageAndStudios.com

Farm Fresh Market MARKET Downtown Woodstock Market Street, Woodstock 8:30 a.m.–Noon | Dog Friendly VisitWoodstockGA.com

Little River Cleanup

Olde Rope Mill Park 690 Olde Rope Mill Park Rd,

2023

Fox Royale MUSIC Lantern Series

111 Elm Street, Woodstock 7:30–9:30 p.m. | Tickets WoodstockArts.org

50 [EnjoyCherokee.com]
2023
to End
[calendar
of events] October
| Fundraiser ChiefsFaceoff.com
Old Country Place BBQ 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | FREE Find on Facebook
MUSIC MadLife Stage & Studios 8722 Main Street, Woodstock 7:00–8:30 p.m. | Tickets MadLifeStageAndStudios.com
9 Monday Car-B-Que at the Flat
David Cook
WORKSHOP Made Mercantile 8636 Main Street, Woodstock 10:00 a.m.–Noon | $65 MadeMercantile.com
& Munch Boo Brunch
Etowah River Alliance 180 McClure Street, Canton 9:00 a.m.
CCWSA.com
Upper
| Volunteer
215
Street,
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Volunteer CCWSA.com
Ground Creek Cleanup Ball Ground City Hall
Valley
Ball Ground
|
Woodstock 9:00 a.m. | Volunteer CCWSA.com
Charity Golf Outing Hickory Flat Optimist Club Fairways of Canton, Canton 8:30 a.m. | Fundraiser Contact 678-409-5940 CASA 30th Anniversary Celebration Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. CherokeeChildrensHaven.org Acworth Farmers Market MARKET Logan Farm Park 4405 Cherokee Street, Acworth 8:00 a.m.–Noon | Rain-or-Shine Acworth.org
Belle Faser MUSIC Big Door Vineyards 125 Clearwater Trail, White 4:30 p.m. LeahBelleFaser.com
20 Friday
Leah
Walk to End Alzheimer’s Etowah River Park 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 9:00 a.m. | Register online ALZ.org/Walk
Junk Day MARKET Outdoor Flea Market 5500 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The-Mkt.com
October
Jacob Bryant Trio MUSIC MadLife Stage & Studios 8722 Main
19 Thursday

Red,

BridgeMill

Wild

51 [EnjoyCherokee.com] 22 Sunday 25 Wednesday 27 Friday Empower Cherokee Golf Tournament Eagle Watch Golf Club 3055 Eagle Watch Drive, Woodstock 9:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m. | Register online Golf2Grow.com Trunk or Treat Unwind Wednesday Cherokee Veterans Park, Canton 5:30–8:00 p.m. | FREE PlayCherokee.org 31 Tuesday Music Bingo with Casey TRIVIA Jekyll Brewing 8634 Main Street, Woodstock 7:00–9:00 p.m. JekyllBrewing.com
Club Woodstock Coffee Co. 9550 Main Street, Woodstock Noon–3:00 p.m. | All ages TheWoodstockCoffeeCompany.com 23 Monday 24 Tuesday
of Aretha MUSIC starring Cece Teneal The Falany at Reinhardt, Waleska 7:30 p.m. | Tickets Reinhardt.edu/Falany
Market MARKET 2023 Season Closing Day The Mill on Etowah, Canton 3:00–7:00 p.m. EtowahMill.com/Events
Chess
Portrait
Tuesday
Farmers Market MARKET BridgeMill Athletic Club 1190 BridgeMill Avenue, Canton 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Find on Facebook
Group Woodstock Public Library 7735 Main Street, Woodstock 4:30–6:00 p.m. | FREE SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
Teen Writing
Creatives Woodstock Coffee Co. 9550 Main Street, Woodstock 6:30–9:00 p.m. TheWoodstockCoffeeCompany.com
Coffee &
Wednesday Trivia Canton Cigar Company The Mill on Etowah, Canton 7:00–9:00 p.m. CantonCigarCompany.com
Tyler Lee Frush Band MUSIC MadLife Stage & Studios 8722 Main Street, Woodstock 8:00–9:30 p.m. | Tickets
The
White, & Blue BBQ American Legion Post 45 160 McClure Street, Canton Fri., Oct. 27–Sat., Oct 28 BBQGA.org
Life Run Group Runners Meet Up Reformation Brewery, Woodstock 7:00–8:00 a.m. OneLifeActive.com
One

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