Canton Family Life 2-22 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

February 2022

VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 7

15-17

[15-17]

On the Cover

Anna Christine Bridal

22 Teacher Feature

Cathy Fernandez

24-25 A Passion for

[22]

Chocolate

30 Artist Profile

Debbie Veith

[24-25] Follow Us >>>

Canton Family Life

[30] Family Life Publications

| February 2022

04 06 10 12 18 20 23 28

familylifepublications

.......................... Perspective .............................. Calendar ........................ Public Safety .................... Community Life ................. Mayor’s Message ................... Senator Speaks ........................ Book Review ............................ Quotables @FamilyLifeMags

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Publisher’sPerspective

Stars

From Afar

couple of months ago, I was enjoying one of our annual southeastern meteor showers, the Geminids, with my family under a clear winter sky. The question arose, “Why do stars twinkle?” I grasped at my words, finding fault in what I was trying to say while I was saying it (as I admittedly do sometimes). Growing up, I was told, “Think before you speak, not as you speak.” Suddenly, I caught a twinkling planet out of the corner of my eye, which stopped my blundering explanation. So, the very next day, after an extra cup of morning enthusiasm, I scoured through some archives or, as we say these days, I googled it. As it turns out, to my somewhat immediate discouragement, I discovered that it had all been an illusion. Not the part about me being wrong, believe me, there was nothing illusive about that; one must learn to get used to that, and I’ve managed to over the years. What I found was that it was not the stars that twinkled. Instead, it was literally the space between us and those celestial bodies that bent the visible light as we saw it. After a deep sigh and with a content smile, I was okay with that explanation. After all, they are still beautiful objects of wonder that elicit awe, enlightenment, and inspiration. In our daily lives, we often find ourselves learning surprising details about what may have seemed so simple before. Moreover, we frequently take what we think we know for granted and come to consider it as true. The truth may not be as it appears or as distant as you think. The next time you find yourself peering deep into the darkness, seek to find a point of light and focus on it. Hold on to that sparkle, as it is that point in the vast emptiness that draws us nearer to the truth, and in turn, all seems brighter. On the flip side, remember that as our light bends over the many miles, from a distance, each of us are stars in the heavens, too.

PUBLISHER/SALES Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cyndi Braun ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Vicky Tuszynski Vicky@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George Anderson, Mary Kay Buquoi, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Bill Grant, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, Tim Morris, Jessica Oravec, Ellen Samsell Salas, Anna Teal, Bruce Thompson, Shannon Wallace

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095 Also available online at

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Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Canton Family Life is a monthly community magazine that reaches more than 30,000 homes and businesses via digital subscription and direct mail in Canton including Sixes/BridgeMill, Ball Ground, Hickory Flat, Holly Springs, and Waleska.

Canton Family Life

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E R EC Y C

M AG A ZI

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

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The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

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NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR

CCSD Alumnus and Alumna of the Year By Lisa-Marie Haygood

[AcademicLife] At each year’s Celebration of Education Gala, the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) recognizes the Alumnus and Alumna of the Year. These awards celebrate the best and brightest Cherokee County School District (CCSD) graduates who have been in service to the community and the world for a minimum of 10 years. The annual Gala will take place on March 12 at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center and will feature comedian Andrew Stanley as well as performances by musicians Kurt Lee Wheeler and Ethan Senger. Catering will be provided by Mike Schroeder of 1885 Grill. If you would like to nominate a Cherokee County public school graduate for this honor, please visit CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org to make an electronic submission. Winners will be selected by the CCEF Board of Directors and surprised during the Gala.

Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive director for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org

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Calendar FEBRUARY

4, 11, & 12

Parent’s Night Out — Drop off the kids at the pool, so you can enjoy adult time. Kids will swim, enjoy a pizza dinner, do crafts, play games, and end the night with a movie. Tickets $15 early registration or $20 late registration. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

Hidden Figures — Celebrate Black History Month with this inspiring story of the female, African-American mathematicians who revolutionized the Space Race. Tickets will be sold online and in person. 7:00-9:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov

The Chocolate Walk — Enjoy an afternoon of shopping while eating chocolate in downtown Canton. Stroll the beautiful streets, visit your favorite shops, listen to music, and sample chocolate provided by downtown businesses. Don’t worry, you’ll be given a goody box to take home any uneaten chocolate. Please check the website or Facebook page for ticket information and additional details. 12:00-6:00pm, downtown Canton. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/ DowntownCantonGA

Iconic: A Solo Show of Artist Raymond Pickens Enjoy an evening featuring the works of local artist Raymond Pickens. 6:30pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

February Is

American Heart Month Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in our country. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. The good news? It can often be prevented when you make healthy choices and manage health conditions. Take time this month to educate yourself on ways to maintain heart health.

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11-18

Picasso at the Lapin Agile — In this long running offBroadway absurdist comedy, popular actor and screenwriter Steve Martin plays fast and loose with fact, fame, and fortune, as these two geniuses muse on the century’s achievements and prospects, as well as other fanciful topics, with infectious dizziness. Tickets are $18 adults/$15 seniors (60+) /students/military. Fridays and Saturdays 8:00pm and Sundays 2:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-591-0282. CherokeeTheatre.org

ONGOING Project Valentine — Every year, Cherokee Recreation & Parks collects the following Project Valentine donations: lip balm, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, art or music activities, candy (sugar free and regular), and other holiday related items. Donations are made into goody bags and delivered to Empower Cherokee, which is a nonprofit organization that serves the special needs community. Please drop off contributions to the Recreation Center, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

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February Is

Black History Month This annual observance, also known as African-American History Month, is officially recognized by the U.S. government and is celebrated by honoring African-American men and women who have made significant contributions in the fields of science, politics, law, sports, the arts, entertainment, and many other fields.

Guns & Hoses 5K and Fun Run Participate in this annual 5K and help raise funds for local charities selected by Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services (Hoses) and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office (Guns). When registering, you will choose the team that you want to represent, and a portion of your fee will go towards its chosen charity. 8:00am, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. BMBarcomb@ cherokeega.com, RaceRoster.com (search - Guns & Hoses 5K Woodstock, GA)

Forever Simon & Garfunkel This show leads the audience on a journey from the group’s early success as a folk act to their global dominance as hit-makers through the best of Paul Simon’s solo career. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Gallery Sessions: Music at Menagerie With Roger Brainard Enjoy a unique listening room experience with a local singer songwriter. Experience songs and stories, while surrounded by art. Tickets are $25 per person. 7:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

Canton Business Club Meeting Each Wednesday morning, network with a group of professionals who are dedicated to serving the community and their clients, while providing value to local business owners. 8:00am, Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton. Facebook.com/ groups/2539178402883849

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

Arbor Day Celebration City of Canton will celebrate Arbor Day by giving away FREE tree seedlings. Other native plants will be available for purchase. 9:00am-4:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov

Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $5. All proceeds support seniors and senior veterans of Cherokee County. 11:30am-1:00pm, Cedarhurst of Canton, 3100 Hidden Valley Drive, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org [continued on page 8]

Nonprofit CPR/AED Certification Class — Held on the last Saturday of each month, this event benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. There is no cost; however, donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org

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Calendar

LIBRARY EVENTS SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org CalendarWiz.com/sequoyahreglib

continued from page 7

BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 770-735-2025

HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565

R.T. JONES

18-27

Oliver Twist Reinhardt University theatre students perform this classic Charles Dickens’ tale. Tickets are $12.50/$5 for students. Fridays and Saturdays 7:30pm and Sundays 3:00pm, University Theatre’s Black Box, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090

VALENTINE-ING! February 8, 11:00am, Ball Ground Get ready for Valentine’s Day by crafting your own special card. This is for children of all ages. Materials are provided.

National Walking the Dog Day Bundle up and take Fido for a frolic in the great outdoors! If taking your dog for a walk is a normal, daily occurrence for you, use this day to try out a new trail or check out a new area of town.

SENIOR TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP February 15, 10:30am, Hickory Flat Get hands-on help with setting up Libby on your Kindle, iPad, or smartphone. Libby is an online library where readers can rent e-books and audiobooks. This event is first come, first served.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH STEM DROP-IN February 17, 3:00pm, R.T. Jones Learn about prominent Black scientists in celebration of Black History Month. Children and their families are welcome to drop in to participate in STEM activities modeled after the inventions of the scientists who will be highlighted.

BOOK TALK WITH AUTHOR MEGAN WARGULA February 22, 4:30pm, Hickory Flat Celebrate National Walking the Dog Day with this local children’s author, as she talks about her books, which feature dogs. This is for ages 11-15. CAFÉ Y CONVERSACIÓN February 22, 5:00pm, Ball Ground Practice your Spanish speaking in a judgment-free zone! Speakers of all skill levels are encouraged to attend. This event is for all ages. Coffee and refreshments will be served. BLACK HISTORY MONTH ART NIGHT February 25, 3:00pm, R.T. Jones Learn about prominent Black artists in celebration of Black History Month. Attendees will look at different artists’ styles and aim to create their own artwork inspired by the creators who are discussed. This is for all ages. 8

Canton Family Life

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National Margarita Day Celebrate this day by enjoying a pitcher of this popular cocktail with friends, or try out a new recipe for one of its many flavorful options.

Three Local Music Acts: One Night Only — Cody Bolden and the Road Hands, Jonathan Peyton, and Greg Shaddix featuring Dallas McGee will each perform a set during this great evening of live music. 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov

The Queen’s Cartoonists — In addition to playing music from classic cartoons and contemporary animation, which are synchronized to video projections of the original films, this band leads the audience through a world of virtuosic musicianship, multiinstrumental mayhem, and comedy. 3:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu Add

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PublicSafety

Exercising Caution With Social Media and Cell Phones By District Attorney Shannon Wallace

you have teenagers in your life, you know they are never far away from their cell phones. These devices enable them to stay in touch with friends, 24/7, often via social media. Most of the time, that interaction is fine — just kids being kids. But sometimes, teens use cell phones and social media to commit crimes, or they become victims of cyberbullying, stalking, harassment, and other crimes. Not long ago, I read an anonymous post seeking advice for a serious problem involving a local teen who told a friend that a boy possessed revealing photos of her and was threatening to share those pictures on social media if she refused to perform certain acts with him. While this is shocking, it’s not an uncommon occurrence. Advice for Parents of Teens The best thing parents can do is frequently talk to their children and guide them in their use of technology. Here are a few tips to share with your teens: 1. Remind teens to think before sharing or posting anything. One rule of thumb is if you wouldn’t want your mother to see *Crimes committed electronically include stalking O.C.G.A. §16-5-90, computer/electronic pornography and child exploitation O.C.G.A. 16-12-100.2, electronically furnishing obscene materials to minors O.C.G.A. 16-12-100.1, sexual exploitation of children O.C.G.A. 16-12-100, sexual extortion O.C.G.A. §16-11-92, and transmission of sexually explicit content electronically without the depicted person’s consent O.C.G.A. §16-11-90. Also relevant is the Georgia anti-bullying law, O.C.G.A. §20-2-751.4.

Canton Family Life

| February 2022

that post or picture, don’t share it. Once something is posted, it’s there forever. 2. T ell your teens never to share explicit photos, even with an intimate partner. Teen relationships typically don’t last forever, but that’s not the case with electronic images. 3. M ake sure teens understand that they should never possess or distribute explicit photos. If the person in the photo is under 16, it’s a serious felony. Regardless of the person’s age, if someone uses a revealing image to threaten or make demands of someone else, that’s called revenge porn and is a serious felony in Georgia. 4. C all 911 immediately if your child is threatened in this way. Cell phones make our teens particularly vulnerable, on a device that is rarely out of their reach. Many crimes are committed electronically including cyberbullying, distribution of explicit materials, furnishing obscene materials to minors, sexual exploitation of children, stalking, child pornography, and sextortion.* Please take time to talk to your teens about these issues. Ignorance of the law is no legal excuse.

Shannon Wallace is the district attorney for Cherokee County. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office

February Is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month Teen dating violence is a form of intimate partner violence that affects young people in close, dating relationships. Victims suffer repeated abuse in the form of acts that can be physical, emotional, sexual, or technology-related. Healthy teen relationships should not involve controlling and violent behaviors. Remember that signs of abuse are not always easy to spot, especially when the abuser is using technology to control his/her intimate partner. Teens experiencing dating violence should reach out to a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult. They can also call the Cherokee Family Violence Center (770-479-1703) or 911 in case of emergency Add

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That First Crush By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] For most, Valentine’s Day brings up both good and bad memories. Many of us remember our first crush. In the 5th grade, I had my first crush on Rosemary, and I became a pile of mush every time she looked my way. When my class had its Valentine’s Day party, the teacher had all students decorate a bag for everyone to put cards in, which gave me the chance to create a special Valentine for Rosemary. I worked for hours on that card and could not wait to put it in her bag. During the party, I reached in my bag to read my cards and quickly learned that I had not received one from Rosemary. I was devastated, so I felt like I needed to get my card back from her. I carefully walked by her desk while she was not sitting at it, saw my decorated envelope, and pulled it out of her bag. Now I had saved myself a lot of embarrassment from her reading my card. A few minutes later, I saw Rosemary walking toward my desk with a large envelope. She looked in my eyes, said happy Valentine’s Day, and handed me a card. She told me the card was too large to put in the small bag, and my heart sank. I never gave her the Valentine I made, and this is the first time I’ve ever told this story to anyone. The seniors that come to Cherokee’s Senior Centers still love to give out Valentines to their friends, and sometime even to the person they have a crush on! In the 30 years I’ve worked in the aging community, there have been three occasions when seniors met and got married because of Valentine cards that were exchanged at the center. I’m not saying that if I’d given Rosemary that card that we’d be together today, but I think things turned out nicely for both of us in the end. Be sure to take time to send your favorite seniors a Valentine to let them know how much you love and care for them. L

Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services

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Community Cherokee County Fire Chief Announces Retirement Cherokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather announced that he will be retiring from Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services.

Cherokee County r Fire Chief Tim Prathe

“As some of you know, I am now completing 35 years of service with Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. To put it into perspective, I have served our department over half my entire life. It has really been hard for me to make the decision, identify a retirement date, and have some kind of exit plan. It is bittersweet to announce that the time has come for me to retire from Cherokee County, with the official retirement date of March 11, 2022,” Chief Prather said.

Chief Prather has over 47 years of collective experience in fire service, and he is proud to have served the citizens of Cherokee County as well as honored to have worked alongside some of the best and most dedicated personnel in the industry.

Georgia Farm Bureau High School Art Contest This contest is open to all public, private, and homeschool students in grades 9-12. Finished artwork must be on 8.5 x 11-inch white paper and should be created in the colors black, white, and gray. Contestants may use a variety of media to create artwork including graphite, charcoal, pastels, chalk, colored pencils, pen-and-ink, ballpoint pens, or mixed media appropriate for printing. Only one entry per person. Previous state winners are not eligible. Students may enter the contest either in the county where they live or attend school. Winners will receive cash prizes. The Cherokee County Farm Bureau (CCFB) Art Contest winner will be entered in the Georgia Farm Bureau District 1 Contest. Contact the CCFB for an official entry form and contest rules at 770-479-1481 x0. For additional information, visit GFB. ag/22artcontest. All entries must be received by February 18.

Local Scout Completes Service Project at Cherokee Veterans Park Boy Scout Noah Boynton recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout by completing his service project at Cherokee Veterans Park. Along with a team of approximately 40 Scouts and troop leaders, he worked to develop the Cherokee County UGA Extension Office’s Backyard Agriculture Education Station, located at the park. The work entailed spreading more than 50 yards of wood chips over a bank before planting nearly 400 rooted wildflower plugs. Volunteers from the UGA Extension Office and the Cherokee County Master Gardeners were also on hand to assist and demonstrate proper planting.

Entries Sought for High School Art and Middle School Bookmark Contests

(L-R) Cherokee County UGA Extension Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent Josh Fuder, Eagle Scout Noah Boynton, and Cherokee County Master Gardener Jodi Morgan.

“Through this journey, I learned a great deal about many of the north Georgia native plant varieties, the best way to plant them, and the critical importance of planning,” said Boynton. “I would like to thank Josh Fuder from the UGA Extension Office for his help in identifying the project and helping me see it through to its successful completion.” The project received roughly $1,400 from the county’s Tree Replacement Fund, which provides funding to plant trees and other vegetation on county property and public spaces.

CCFB Middle School Bookmark Contest The CCFB Bookmark Contest is open to all public, private, and homeschool students in grades 6-8. Participating students will be given a blank bookmark and asked to draw a picture that depicts some aspect of Georgia agriculture. Students may use crayons, markers, or colored pencils to create their bookmark. Only one entry per person. Interested students should contact the CCFB at 770-479-1481 x0 for an official entry form and contest rules. All entries must be received by February 18.

The education station will serve as an outdoor learning space where citizens can attend classes and learn horticultural techniques from UGA Extension agents and trained volunteers. Classes and workshops are set to begin in the spring. The station is privately funded, and donations are being accepted for the purchase of a greenhouse to allow for expanded teaching and fundraising opportunities. To learn more about the education station or to donate, please contact the Cherokee County UGA Extension Office at 770-721-7803. 12

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Community Cherokee County Farm Bureau Wins State Awards

New Executive Director Announced The personnel committee of the Sequoyah Regional Library System’s (SRLS) Board of Trustees has selected Angela Cortellino as its new executive director. She has served as deputy director for SRLS since 2016, after joining the system in 2015 as public services director. Prior to joining the SRLS, she worked in public libraries in Hall and Lumpkin counties.

Cherokee County Farm Bureau (CCFB) was honored during the 84th Annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Convention.

(L-R) GFB Presid ent Tom McCall, In recognition of CCFB President William Grizzle, and CCFB efforts to promote Legislative Com mittee Chairman agriculture in the Don Keeter. local community, CCFB received the GFB McKemie Award in the organization’s large membership division. The McKemie Award, which is the highest honor awarded to a county Farm Bureau, is a memorial to former GFB President W.J. McKemie. CCFB received a $1,500 cash prize for winning the award. The GFB also awarded CCFB the Outstanding Legislative Award, in recognition of efforts to make legislators and public officials aware of issues farmers face. The CCFB Legislative Committee hosted a Legislative Appreciation Breakfast in 2019, which gave local farmers a chance to interact with elected officials or their office representatives. The Committee also held an in-person political forum in 2019 and a virtual forum in 2020 to give political candidates a chance to share their platforms with residents.

Cortellino earned a Master of Science in Information Technology from the University of Tennessee School of Information Science. She is a member of the Georgia Library Association, where she serves as advocacy chair. In 2021, she was awarded the Georgia Library Professional Commendation for Outstanding Service and was honored as one of Cherokee County’s Top 10 Under 40 Professionals to Watch. Cortellino will replace retiring Sequoyah Regional Library Executive Director Anita Summers.

Angela Cortellino

City of Canton 2022 Project Goals During a recent meeting, Mayor Bill Grant, Canton City Council, and department heads identified and reviewed more than 200 projects and initiatives they’d like to accomplish this year. Though other priorities may develop along the way, here are a few of the project goals:

     

Completion of Canton’s primary River Walk trail connector from Heritage to Boling Parks by this summer, linking the city’s three major parks along one multiuse path. Completion of a citywide Transportation Master Plan. Completion of the Archer Street Parking Deck in downtown Canton by May including a solar canopy to power 10 electric vehicle charging stations and provide significant energy credits for City Hall. Completion of Harmon Park improvements and expansion including a mini-pitch soccer field. About 50% completion of the new Wastewater Treatment Plant by the end of the year. Launch and begin initial funding for Phase One of the new Tax Allocation District, approved by City Council in 2021, to enhance redevelopment from Exit 16/Hickory Flat Highway through other areas in downtown Canton that need revitalization.

These are just a few of the larger projects to be addressed in 2022. Canton City Council and staff are aligning all resources and budget allocations with its new strategic plan, which will be executed according to the priorities identified when creating the City's Roadmap.

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Community CCSD Announcements School Board Member Mike Chapman Will Not Seek Another Term Mike Chapman, who began his tenure in 2002, said he is proud of the many accomplishments achieved by the CCSD during his service. He was elected four times by his fellow board members to serve as chairman and five times to serve as vice chairman.

Chapman ser ving lunch school hero day.

The many educational initiatives implemented Mike Chapman due to Chapman’s advocacy include the nationally recognized Cherokee Academies program, developed in response to his call for more educational school choice in our community. The school district’s STEM and Fine Arts Academies provided a model for school districts nationwide and earned state and national recognition. A champion for fiscal conservatism and transparency, Chapman supported the development of the Open CCSD webpage, which provides a one-stop shop for the public to access financial and accountability records.

Bee Excited for CCSD's Top Three Spellers Thirty Cherokee County students recently put their spelling skills to the test in the 2022 CCSD Spelling Bee, which went nine rounds over 90 minutes before a winner was decided. Creekland MS eighth-grader Huck Wallace correctly spelled “reggae” and then “resplendence” to claim the title as the county’s top speller for the second year in a row. Fourth-grader Miller Inthirathvongsy of Clark Creek ES STEM Academy captured second place, and fifth-grader Isabella Melo-Moreira of Arnold Mill ES placed third. All three students will advance to the regional Georgia Association of Educators bee, which will be held at Etowah HS February 26. State winners (March 18 competition) will advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee held in Washington, D.C. in June.

(L-R) Miller Inthirath vongsy (2nd place ), Huck Wallace (1st place ), Isabella Melo-Mo reira (3rd place) in the 2022 CCSD Spell ing Bee.

Fine Arts Contest District Winners Announced This annual competition offers students in all grades the opportunity to create original works of art in the categories of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts (2D and 3D). This year’s theme was “I Will Change the World By…” Top district winners advance to state competition. Dance Choreography 1st Place Winners Ellie Grace Adams, Sixes ES, Grade 3 Evie Bennett, Macedonia ES, Grade 1 Sophia Geoghagan, Hickory Flat ES, Grade 4 Afton Sheldon, Knox ES STEM Academy, Grade 5 Lorelei Sheldon, Cherokee HS, Grade 9 Film Production 1st Place Winners Brooke Gilleland, Avery ES, Grade 4 Lincoln Rose, Sixes ES, Kindergarten Harrison Smock, Liberty ES, Grade 3 Nora Starr, Knox ES STEM Academy, Grade 2 Literature 1st Place Winners Lorelai Bird, Knox ES STEM Academy, Grade 5 Sarabeth Campbell, Sequoyah HS, Grade 11 Maggie Edwards, Hickory Flat ES, Grade 4 Emmalyn Epps, Macedonia ES, Grade 2 Otis Waddington, Avery ES, Grade 1 Music Composition 1st Place Winners McKenna Baskett, Sixes ES, Grade 2 Anthony Dagostino, Indian Knoll ES, Grade 5 Caitlien Nguyen, Creekview HS, Grade 12 Photography 1st Place Winners Mady Cooper, Macedonia ES, Grade 2 Addison Quarles, Dean Rusk MS, Grace 6 Kathryn Rickert, Creekland MS, Grade 8 Charli Wallace, Free Home ES, Grade 5 Visual Arts 2D 1st Place Winners Audri Colquitt, Liberty ES, Grade 5 Brooke Jacomine, Sequoyah HS, Grade 10 Emily Smith, Creekland MS, Grade 7 Visual Arts 3D 1st Place Winners Lindsey Davis, Creekland MS, Grade 6 Zaine Reinhart, Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy, Grade 2 Cassie Shepp, Creekland MS, Grade 7

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COVER STORY

Love

F O R T HE O F BRIDA L By Anna Teal

It’s

the day many women dream about from a young age, one of life's most special days – their wedding day.

Once a young lady has found her spouse-to-be, it’s time to select the perfect gown that accentuates all the right features. Anna Christine Ward, owner of Anna Christine Bridal in Canton, is no stranger to beholding these beautiful moments with brides in her shop who are searching for the perfect wedding dress.

Anna (front row, right center) and her team at Anna Christine Bridal.

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Born Into Bridal

There’s no better person to entrust a bridal gown wish list to than Anna Christine. After all, she was born into the business. Her father, Bill Perrett, was a sales rep for Justin Alexander; her uncle, Mike Perrett, was a rep for Morilee; and her cousins are reps for Morilee as well. “My dad was one of the first bridal sales reps to work with companies to bring imported gowns to the U.S. in the early 1980s. He was very well known and connected in the bridal industry,” explains Anna. Growing up, Anna found herself captivated by beautiful dresses, sparkling jewelry, and that ever-sospecial moment when a bride finds the perfect dress.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Anna’s father’s bridal business quickly became a family affair. Before Anna graduated from Sequoyah HS, her mother, Russelyn, joined her father by handling customer-service-related matters. After graduating from Auburn University with a business degree, Anna found herself helping her father with his territory, which had grown exponentially larger than he could handle alone. “Looking back, my extensive exposure to all things bridal built the foundation that would later serve me well when opening my own bridal business. My light-bulb moment came at a time when my career took me away from the bridal industry. At the time, I was working for a friend who had a lip balm business, and I wasn’t as happy as I wanted to be in that role. I found myself scrolling bridal gowns in my spare time, still captivated by their beauty. I realized at that moment that bridal was my passion. I had the idea to open my own bridal store,” says Anna. After consulting with her father and husband, she decided to open Anna Christine Bridal. Anna and her family are Cherokee County natives, so it was important to select a location in Canton. With the help of her entire family, Anna started the journey to open her store. Her husband, Kevin, was especially instrumental in building out the store and printing materials via his local print business, Sull Graphics. “If it were not for my husband, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” says Anna.

Anna's parents, Russelyn and Bill Perrett

Blissful Bridal Moments

When entering Anna Christine Bridal, guests experience an onslaught of beautiful light pink hues peppered with soft grays and neutral whites. Even more welcoming than the decor is Anna and her team’s approach to making every bride’s gown selection process as special as possible. “We relish in the incredible tender moments that ladies have with the people they love. It’s absolutely magical. There’s nothing like it,” says Anna. One lovely touch is every bride receives a goodie bag when purchasing a gown. “If you’re spending over $1,000 for a wedding dress that will take some time to arrive in-store, it’s important to walk away with something to celebrate the occasion,” says Anna. Brides are also gifted a personalized wedding cup and free goodies from other local vendors in the area. “We have businesses that will drop off items for us to give away to brides. We love our Cherokee County community and that our local partners can be part of our bridal business,” Anna says. “These big life moments are so memorable and deserve to be cherished,” says Anna. She realizes this now more than ever since her mom’s diagnosis with early-onset Alzheimer’s. “My team and I love to be part of these special life moments. I’ve come to realize how important they are because life is fleeting,” explains Anna.

Canton Family Life

| February 2022

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Still Love at First Sight After Three Years Anna Christine Bridal serendipitously opened on Valentine’s Day 2019, and it’s now the fastest growing bridal store in the state of Georgia. Unsurprisingly, her collection features dazzling dresses from Justin Alexander, among others such as Lillian West, Morilee, and Maggie Sottero, in addition to beautiful bridal accessories to complete the look.

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Anna and her team offer a wide variety of bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, and fun bridal gifts. “We work with local master seamstresses to provide alteration contacts for our brides. We suggest calling them ASAP, even if a wedding is a year out, due to the increase in demand,” explains Anna.

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traiture

Anna Christine Bridal is celebrating three blissful years in business this month. “We just completed a remodel to accommodate the growing bridal demand. We now have three fitting and viewing spaces. We can take up to three appointments at a time, and we can accommodate up to 15 appointments a day,” says Anna. And the surge in wedding gown demand isn’t just from local brides. “We get people from as far as California and all over the United States,” explains Anna.

Experience Anna Christine Bridal

For those looking to peruse the enchanting inventory that Anna Christine Bridal has to offer, it’s best to book an appointment online or call the store. Anna and her team prefer to keep appointments to three to four people, but for those wishing to bring more guests, they must call ahead of time.

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With that goal in mind, she and her team are looking forward to many more years serving their beloved brides and community.

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One thing is for sure — for those seeking the perfect wedding dress, it’s likely they’ll find it at Anna Christine Bridal as well as a very special experience made memorable by the entire staff. “I want everyone who walks into our store to feel beautiful and loved,” says Anna.

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

Christina Kelley

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770-213-8189 AnnaChristineBridal.com Follow Anna Christine Bridal on

All of the staff is wonderful and makes you feel at home. They knew exactly what I wanted, and I went home with the first dress I tried on. My stylist was heaven-sent and helped me find the perfect dress with less than a month till the wedding. — Megan Tancrede

Anna Christine Bridal had such a great selection of beautiful dresses in all sizes that not only did I like the very first dress I tried on, but I actually liked several dresses and had a difficult time choosing a favorite! Most importantly, Anna and her staff were so friendly and welcoming that they took the stress away! They recommended dresses based on my likes/dislikes, made me feel comfortable, and made the entire experience so much fun! — Megan Leedy

559 Riverstone Parkway, Unit 101, Canton, GA 30114

Facebook and Instagram @AnnaChristineBridal.

I can’t say enough good things about my experience and everyone at Anna Christine Bridal. Everyone was so patient with me and my family, as I looked and found my dream dress! I loved the option for my group to be the only group in the shop. It felt less stressful and more personal. The process of my bridesmaids finding their dresses was also quick and easy, and each of my girls was able to find a dress that they felt beautiful in. — Sharayah Owens

I had a great experience at Anna Christine Bridal with my stylist! She made me feel so comfortable and was so helpful in my wedding dress shopping experience! She also took the extra time to help us look through bridesmaids dresses! I’m so glad we found this shop to look for my wedding dress! — Rachel Zipperer

FamilyLife Publications.com

Mayor’s Message

Canton Shines in 2022! By Mayor Bill Grant

nother new year is well underway in the Coolest Small Town in America, and it’s off to a great start. I am honored and excited to announce the City of Canton has received the 2022 Visionary City Award from the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and Georgia Trend magazine. The award recognizes cities that have exhibited success in planning and forward-thinking in the areas of civic engagement and collaboration. This award is a huge achievement, and only eight other cities in the state were recognized in this way. On January 23, members of the City Council and I received this honor at the Cities United Summit luncheon at the Hilton Atlanta Hotel. The Summit luncheon attendees included Georgia’s top elected officials as well as elected officials and local leaders from cities across the state. “These visionary cities exemplify what it means to be forward-thinking for their residents and generations to come and also serve as inspiring examples of civility, collaboration, and creating communities of positive change across Georgia,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. Canton was recognized as a Visionary City based on our Roadmap for Success,

Canton Family Life

| February 2022

which outlines the community standards we use to evaluate all projects, programs, developments, budgets, and ideas. Through our Roadmap and its eight tenets, we have created a 15-year framework for planning, a guide for evaluating choices and trade-offs, and a map for moving forward. Both GMA and Georgia Trend were impressed with how the strategic plan was created through the collective ideas of Canton’s City Council, citizens, customers, and volunteers, and the clarity with which it communicates the City’s priorities in a succinct and coherent manner. Planning and managing growth are never easy, especially in a city that has been adding an average of 1,275 residents annually for more than two decades. As Canton grows, so do our challenges: new and diverse housing, more commercial development, increased infrastructure, added public safety resources, park space demands, and ongoing communication effectiveness. On a daily basis, the City deals with conflicting pressures for historic preservation, a commitment to maintaining a small-town atmosphere from residents who want limited growth, and those who want more business and recreational activities.

Our Council and staff work tirelessly to balance these challenges that are seen across metro Atlanta, and our Roadmap is helping us navigate change in a thoughtful and strategic manner. “Visionary” is certainly a lofty word, and long-term vision is often not comprehended until years after a plan has come together in an organized fashion. I am confident our Roadmap for Success will continue to deliver excellent results for our residents, businesses, and visitors. Through its recognition as an innovative approach to municipal planning in the state and regionally, our Roadmap process can be replicated in other high-growth communities or in areas that need to be reimagined for the future. For our Council and me, that may be the most exciting aspect of all – not only “Leading with Excellence” in Canton but also providing a written, working example for other communities to discover and translate vision into reality.

Bill Grant is the mayor of the City of Canton. 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov

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10 Ways To Show Your Kids You Love Them By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[AcademicLife] Telling your children you love them is one of the best things you can do as a parent, but showing your children you love them is also important. Here are 10 ways to show you care: Write a note to your little one. Put the note in her lunchbox, under her pillow, or in a place where only she will look. 2. Say “yes” to an unusual request. Did your child request donuts and ice cream for dinner? Does he want to wear his pajamas all day? Relax the rules occasionally. 3. Keep a record. Recording your child’s early days in a baby book or journal can be a great way to remember all the wonderful little things she does. 4. Stop what you’re doing and listen to your child’s stories. This simple gesture helps you stay connected with her/him. 5. When your child talks to you, engage him and ask follow-up questions. Creating a dialogue can show him that you’re truly interested in what he has to say. 6. Share your stories. Your children are just as curious about you as you are about them. 7. Ask him to play his favorite songs. This is a fun, easy way to find out what makes him tick while showing him that you’re interested. 8. Start a daily tradition. Read a story at bedtime, have an afterschool chat, or play a game every day to ensure that the two of you have a special bonding time. 9. Display her doodles and drawings. Your child pours her heart into every piece of artwork she makes. Hanging up these creations at home or in your office can encourage her creativity while showing your child how important she is to you. 10. Show him how to do things. If your child wants to know how to bake cookies, teach him. If he asks how to inflate a bike tire, walk him through the process. Your child will remember and cherish those lessons. 1.

Mary Kay Buquoi is owner of The Goddard School, 140 Foster Road, Woodstock. 770-720-1311. GoddardSchools.com

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

FamilyLife Publications.com

Senator Speaks

d e l e v a Unr Plans By State Senator Bruce Thompson

ith an 8:30am flight to Montana, I knew I needed to be on the road no later than 5:00am in case of traffic delays or parking challenges. The Georgia weather at this time of year can also be unpredictable. But, I felt confident that setting my alarm for 4:00am would give me ample time. The night before, I used the digital notification to check in for my flight, packed my bags, fueled my vehicle, and laid out my morning necessities before going to bed. My normal morning routine starts at 5:00am and involves a light breakfast, devotion time/ prayer/reflection, hydrating with 64 ounces of water, and enjoying a cup of joe, but losing an hour of sleep gets harder the older I get. I remember glancing at the clock at 11:00pm, and poof! The 4:00am alarm seemed to come in the blink of an eye. I found myself struggling to stay on pace and settled for a shower, a brief devotion, and a quick chug of water before rushing out the door with my coffee. I checked my airline app, and although many flights were canceled or delayed, mine was unaffected (at least for the moment). Traffic was a breeze, and I arrived in the airport parking lot in record time, so I figured

I would capture a quick siesta before heading into the terminal. My phone’s alarm notified me that my 10-minute nap was over, so refreshed and ready to tackle the day, I headed into the airport to drop off my luggage. I was extra excited about the flight because I had been notified earlier that I was receiving a complimentary upgrade to first class. Once I reached the airline’s check-in counter, I quickly realized that my plans were about to change. Some time after I’d checked my flight app that morning, my flight had been canceled, and I (along with hundreds of others) was now being rerouted on another overbooked airline through Denver.

When I was finally sitting on the plane, I couldn’t help but ponder how the pandemic had changed our lives. But regardless of unpredictable weather or traffic conditions, uncontrollable flight cancelations, or the COVID-19 pandemic, God reminds us that he is in control, and he wants our attention. “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” (Jeremiah 29:11).

While sitting in the terminal, I struck up a conversation with a couple sitting next to me who were also impacted by the flight cancelation. They were visiting family in Georgia for Christmas and trying to get home for their daughter’s 16th birthday bash. By the sound of it, they spent a small fortune planning her party, so they were understandably stressed about the possibility of missing the celebration.

Bruce Thompson represents District 14, which includes Canton and Woodstock. 404-656-0065. BruceThompsonGa.com

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| February 2022

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Teacher Feature BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

Cathy z e d n a n r e F

E.T.

Booth MS sixth-grade social studies teacher Cathy Fernandez makes history relevant for her students.

students begin creating connections to our content on their own,” Fernandez said. “Those personal connections get students excited about learning.”

Now in her 15th year as a teacher, Fernandez heard her calling while working for a violence prevention program in Florida. She had the opportunity to teach in that role and realized her destiny, like many in her family tree, was to become a classroom teacher.

One example was a lesson on the rise of Nazism and the Holocaust. Students were tasked with interviewing family members about their knowledge of the Holocaust, with the students, in turn, sharing what they had learned in class. The assignment was so successful that it expanded into a school club that produces a podcast called For the Record.

“Seeing the joy in a student’s eyes when they grasp a topic and hearing them say, ‘this reminds me of ...’ is what fuels me to keep going,” said Fernandez, who was named her school’s 2020-21 Teacher of the Year and a Cherokee County School District (CCSD) Teacher of the Year finalist. “I do not regret my roundabout way of becoming an educator because my prior experiences helped shape how I teach. I am honored to carry on my family’s tradition.” With a goal of engaging students in learning about history and its impact on our lives, Fernandez designs lessons so “students do not see where we will end up right away.” “This models that our content relates to their lives more than they ever thought. Structuring lessons like this helps 22

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| February 2022

Fernandez and media specialist Amanda Graves earned a grant to create a podcasting studio, and students now interview classmates, faculty, family, and community members about their experiences with significant historical events. “The goal of the podcast is for students to create a digital history of how what they are learning in the classroom connects to their lives and the community,” Fernandez said. “By taking part in the podcast, students not only display mastery of content standards and beyond, but they also learn interpersonal skills and digital citizenship and literacy in a collaborative environment that will serve them well beyond the classroom.”

What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school? “As simple as it sounds, I think having meaningful conversations with your child about what they have done during the day is monumental,” said Fernandez. “When students know they will be asked more than ‘how was your day?’ they will be more accountable for their learning. It also shows that what they are learning does not stay within the confines of their school but extends into their everyday lives. Additionally, these conversations show students that their families are interested in what they do at school, and that does more than you realize. Families can also help their students by asking them to teach them what they learned. If students cannot teach you, then they do not know the material yet. These ‘teaching moments’ will help families see where their students need improvement and can help their student practice. But, they also give families an excellent chance to celebrate their student when they have successfully taught a lesson.”

Barbara P. Jacoby is the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District. 770-704-4228. CherokeeK12.net

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Book Review BY JESSICA ORAVEC

A HISTORY OF WILD PLACES In

Shea Ernshaw’s A History of Wild Places, Maggie St. James, an author of dark fairy tales for children, has gone missing. Some believe she vanished because she couldn’t cope with the burden of missing children who had been looking for the underground — the place in her stories. Her parents hire Travis Wren, a man who can hold objects and see the afterimages of the person who left them behind. Maggie’s mom gives Travis one clue, “Pastoral,” before he sets off on his investigation. As he follows Maggie’s trail deeper into the woods, he discovers a community called Pastoral. And then he, too, disappears. A few years later, Theo, a lifelong member of Pastoral, discovers Travis’ truck beyond the boundary of where anyone in the community is supposed to go. The woods aren’t safe; the trees are infected by the pox; and if anyone crosses the boundary, they risk bringing back the infection to the community. The community is run by Levi, a vivacious yet pensive leader who makes hard decisions that he believes are best for Pastoral. But when a baby is born who needs medical help, the community is divided over what they believe is best. As Theo and his wife Calla discover more about Travis Wren and find Maggie’s book, they realize that everything they thought they knew is wrong. As community secrets are uncovered, it is revealed that idyllic places aren’t always what they seem, and people can go missing in more ways than one. Thrilling and atmospheric, A History of Wild Places is a story about fairy tales, the ideal community, and what happens when we get lost in the wilderness. It explores how our personal perceptions control our world, and how, sometimes, lies become the truth. This book will remind readers that no place is perfect, and that we must eventually face our fears.

Jessica Oravec lives in Cherokee County and is an avid reader and a children’s minister. She holds a B.B.A. from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology.

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

FamilyLife Publications.com

By Julie Senger

hether you’re looking to make a homemade sweet treat for your Valentine, or you’re interested in creating something special for a favorite group of “Galentines,” kiddos, or coworkers, or you’re part of the “Love Stinks” camp and plan to treat yourself to chocolate goodness this year, most everyone will be able to find a recipe on these two pages to fall in love with.

WHITE CHOCOLATE CHERRY FUDGE For those who are not big fans of super chocolatey desserts, this recipe is as pretty to look at as it is delicious to eat. Ingredients 6 oz. dried cherries 1 pinch salt 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3 3/4 cups white chocolate chips 1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk Sparkling sugar sprinkles (optional)

HEALTHY CHOCOLATE HUMMUS This would be wonderful for a Galentine’s Day charcuterie board. BONUS! The avocado/ coconut oil is heart healthy, and the recipe has no gluten, dairy, or refined sugars. Ingredients 1 15 oz. can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained 2 tbs. avocado oil or coconut oil 1/3 cup maple syrup 2 tbs. tahini or favorite nut butter 1/4 cup Dutch cocoa powder 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. fine sea salt Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional) Procedure Put chickpeas, oil, maple syrup, and nut butter into a food processor and process until smooth (1-2 minutes). Add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt, then process until the mixture is well combined. If the mixture is too grainy, add a tablespoon of warm water while the food processor is on and let it run until it’s smooth again. Transfer the hummus to a cute bowl and sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one week. Use fresh fruit, cookies, crackers, or pretzels for dipping.

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| February 2022

Procedure Line a 9×9 pan with parchment paper, so that it goes up the sides of the pan. Pour the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl and microwave for one minute. Stir to combine and distribute the heat evenly to melt the chocolate chips. If the chocolate isn’t completely smooth, microwave the mixture for another 30 seconds. Stir in the vanilla extract, dried cherries, and salt. Pour the mixture into the lined pan and spread evenly. If you’d like, sprinkle some sparkling sugar on top of the fudge and lightly press down on it, so it adheres. Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting into squares. You may also refrigerate it to expedite the process.

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BROWNIE COOKIES Need something easy to take to an office party or send with the kids to school? This vegan recipe is a great way to combine two favorite desserts into one yummy treat.

SPICY CHOCOLATE HEARTS This recipe is perfect if your sassy Valentine likes chocolate with an unexpected kick of sweet heat. You’ll need a silicone mold to make this candy, preferably one with hearts. Ingredients 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 10 oz. dark chocolate (not bark) 4 oz. white chocolate for garnish (optional) Red sugar crystals for garnish (optional) Procedure Melt the chocolate in a double broiler or microwave until smooth and shiny. If using a microwave, be sure to take the chocolate out every 20-30 seconds to stir and distribute the heat to help facilitate the melting process. Add cinnamon and cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate and stir until evenly distributed. Using a teaspoon, fill each silicone heart 2/3 full and carefully shake the mold back and forth to settle the chocolate. Refrigerate the mold for 1 hour. Remove the chocolate from the molds, then melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the top of each heart. Sprinkle with red sugar. Refrigerate the hearts for 30 minutes or until white chocolate drizzle and sprinkles are set then remove and serve.

Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. + 1/8 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. baking powder 6 tbs. vegetable oil 2 tbs. milk of choice 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips Procedure Combine all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add remaining ingredients and stir to form a batter. Grease a cookie sheet and roll the batter into balls (or use a mini cookie scoop) to place on the sheet. Bake for 9-10 minutes at 325 degrees. The cookies will look underdone when you take them out of the oven but will become firm after cooling.

MOMMA JEAN’S CHOCOLATE CHESS PIE This old-fashioned pie recipe (like Momma used to make) is a rich, comforting dessert to share with your family. Make sure to have glasses of ice-cold milk ready to go with it! Ingredients 1 deep dish pie shell 1 stick margarine, melted (not butter) 2 1/2 cups sugar 3 tbs. cocoa powder 1 5 oz. can evaporated milk 2 eggs slightly beaten 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Procedure In a large mixing bowl, add all ingredients and stir until well combined. The mixture will be a loose liquid. Pour the mixture into the pie shell and bake at 325 degrees for approximately 1-1.5 hours or until the center of the pie has little movement when slightly jiggling the oven rack. Let the pie cool for at least an hour to set before serving.

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

FamilyLife Publications.com

Three Ways You Could Be Damaging Your Hair (and Not Even Know It) By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] Things that you do every day could be stressing your tresses. Hair is primarily composed of proteins and made up of three different layers: the medulla (the innermost part of the hair), which is surrounded by the cortex, and then the cuticle (the outermost layer of the hair). When hair is damaged, the protein bonds become broken, and hair can feel dry and brittle. Here are three ways you may be damaging your hair, and what to do about them:

MECHANICAL DAMAGE Excessive heat styling often leads to damaged hair. Extreme heat causes temporary changes to the hydrogen bonds that hold hair together. Over time, these changes can lead to more permanent damage, especially if you tend to blow dry or use a styling iron daily.

3. To avoid mechanical damage: • Use a thermal protector that’s heat activated and protects the hair fiber inside and out. Also, try to stay under 400 degrees when using any hair appliance. • Wait until your hair is at least 50% dry before using a blow dryer.

CHEMICAL DAMAGE Chemical damage can occur if you’re attempting to make extreme changes to your hair. A perm is an example by which extreme heat is used to change the natural shape of your hair. Just like with heated styling tools, if care isn’t taken, damage can occur during the perming process. Over-processing is another form of chemical damage where the outer portion of the hair is opened, so that the product can reach the inner section. Overuse or improper use of color and bleaching agents can weaken hair strands and permanently damage your hair. Damage can occur if the concentration of the chemicals is too high, or if the products are left on for too long.

To prevent chemical hair damage: • Always consult with a professional who knows how to properly perform any chemical service. • Color your hair on average only every six to eight weeks.

Canton Family Life

| February 2022

DIET DAMAGE You are what you eat, and what you eat often manifests in the strength and luster (or lack thereof) of your locks. Protein-rich foods provide your body with amino acids, which produce the keratin that makes your hair strong. In fact, a deficiency in keratin may cause hair to grow more slowly and cause existing strands to be weak.

To prevent damaged hair: • In addition to consuming protein-rich foods, vitamin C helps absorb vegetable-based proteins in the body, which are the building blocks for keratin. Eat citrus fruits, fresh peppers, and Brussels sprouts, as these foods can help promote keratin development. • Ensure you get enough omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients, found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, are known to benefit your hair as well as your skin.

If you’re dealing with damaged hair, take some of these precautions, so your locks can look as good as you feel. L

Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com

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Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

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Quotables “I was always taught by my mother that the first thought that goes through your mind is what you have been conditioned to think. What you think next defines who you are.” -Unknown

“When you believe you’re owed everything, people will want to give you nothing. When you believe you’re owed nothing, people will want to give you everything.” -Mark Manson

Canton Family Life

“When I talk to managers, I get the feeling that they are important. When I talk to leaders, I get the feeling that I am important.” -Alexander Den Heijer

“True love is born from understanding.” -The Buddha “Holding on is believing that there’s a past; letting go is knowing that there’s a future.” -Daphne Rose Kingma

“If you don’t heal what hurt you, you’ll bleed on people who didn’t cut you.” -Unknown

“Great minds don’t think alike. They challenge each other to think differently. The people who teach you the most are the ones who share your principles but not your thought processes. Converging values draw you to similar questions. Diverging views introduce you to new answers.” -Adam Grant

| February 2022

“If you want peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies” -Desmond Tutu

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Five Rules To Overcome the Fear of Pruning By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Follow these simple pruning rules to turn this daunting task into something rewarding and cathartic. 1. Minimize pruning through proper placement. If a shrub swallows your entryway or hides your windows each year, then pruning will not fix the problem. Consider removing it and replacing it with a different plant. 2. Choose the right tool for the job. Pruning shears or hand pruners work great on detail pruning of material up to a half inch in diameter. Bypass style are best for living material. Bypass loppers are recommended on material between 1-1.5 inches. Pruning saws come in many different styles (folding, fixed blade with curved or straight blades, etc.), which generally cut on the pulling motion and work best on anything that’s too big for your loppers. Cordless reciprocating saws can be used with pruning blades and are great for pruning larger materials where control is needed. Unless you are a tree care professional, leave the chain saw alone. 3. Understand the difference between thinning cuts and heading cuts. Thinning cuts remove an entire branch at the point of attachment to another branch or trunk and are used to control or redirect growth. Heading cuts remove a portion of a branch and will encourage growth below the cut. The new growth will often be upright and vigorous, which is not usually preferred. 4. Know when to prune flowering shrubs. If it blooms in early spring, then prune after bloom (by early July), so new growth can develop fruit buds for next season. If blooms come mid to late summer, then prune in late winter before growth begins. 5. Approach each plant with a plan and follow a sequence. Simple sequential steps can help make an unruly mass of vegetation more manageable. Start with any diseased, dead, damaged material or branch stubs. Then, remove any water sprouts and root suckers. Once these obvious pruning decisions are made, move on to shaping the plant to the desired form. Remember, pruning gets easier with time and practice. So, try not to let it overwhelm you.

Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

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ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Debbie Veith

Embracing the Old, the New, and the Unexpected

ixed media artist Debbie Veith likes to take old things and make them new. Photos, quotations, dress patterns, war bonds, fabric, bottles, and frames — almost anything can become part of a creation that touches viewers. Veith’s personal favorite is a celebration of her mother. Combining a piece of her mother’s bridal veil with a photo of her mother as a child, and words that capture the pain of loss: “It has been two years since she passed away, and I find myself wishing I could look through the lacecurtained window of the afterlife for a glimpse of my dear departed mother.” The work hangs in Veith’s studio. Like most of her pieces, the tribute to her mom evolved from a concept. “I’ll sit with my sketchbook, do some journaling, then I might have a loose concept,” Veith said. From her concept, Veith envisions a color palette, as she experiments in her sketchbook. Typically, she limits each work to three colors plus black and white to create the contrasts that are key to her works. Though she limits her palette, she does not limit her materials.

“I love nostalgic things,” she said. “We can learn a lot from the past.”

So, while many relegate family photos to boxes stowed in the basement, Veith reimagines them and allows them to speak to viewers. Notes her grandmother wrote, deeds, musical scores from her grandfather’s days as an orchestra leader, feathers, stones, sand, and branches become the heart of her canvasses. Veith often incorporates text into her collages, striking personal chords for some while sparking thought for others. “All my stuff has to have some meaning to it,” said Veith. Adding to this depth are the textures she achieves through her paint, using anything from a potato masher to the fabric-marking tool from her sixth grade sewing class to several of the dozens of brushes she has “groomed” over the years to create patterns and movement. Never having formally studied art, Veith has always created. So, when she retired, she moved to the heart of Woodstock where she spends hours at the Reeves House surrounded by other artists. But, she added, “I don’t do ‘art.’ I can’t draw well. But I’m good with color and balance and abstract, which I love.” Veith is also exceptionally good at experimentation, mixing her own colors, fashioning palettes from wooden trays and incense-burners from bottles, making her own collage paper, and letting her works evolve. “Sometimes, a piece goes in a completely different direction than my original concept,”

Veith said. “Sometimes, stuff just appears, and it’s beautiful to me. Other times, it’s rough and not that good. When that happens, I just paint over it and start again. I like to play and see what happens.” A people person who served as a nurse for 45 years and continues to volunteer with an Atlanta transplant team, Veith sees her art as another way of touching people. “This has been my life. Other things — my career as a nurse, raising three daughters — are out of the way. Now I have the time. I don’t care if people buy my stuff. But I do feel great when they do,” Veith said. “I hope the work resonates with a person in some way, either the color, the style, the words, the sentiment, and that they take it home and enjoy it. That’s pretty cool.”

To learn more about Debbie Veith, please visit Facebook.com/DV Designs. 30

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| February 2022

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It’s Not How You Start the Race By Pastor George Anderson

[InGoodFaith] I ran my first 10K race in college. One of my professors, who was an experienced runner, said, “Start up front with the fastest runners.” His reasoning? “Don’t get stuck in the crowd of slow runners where you can neither move nor breathe.” But I missed the part where he said, “Start with the fastest runners, but don’t try to keep up with them.” Caught up in the excitement, I came off the starting line like Secretariat. After just a few strides, those runners were at the end of the block! When I reached the first corner, they were clear out of sight. That race went uphill from there. I couldn’t find my pace. Since I’d trained on trails, I wasn’t accustomed to running on pavement. After three miles, my shins started to burn. Around the fourth mile, I was out of gas and had to walk. I felt defeated and humiliated. Eventually, the burning in my shins passed. I decided to slowly jog and try to finish standing up. Finally, the last mile — I was going to make it! Then, out of nowhere, this 10-year-old kid passed on my left. He was so skinny his tube socks came halfway up his thighs. I thought, “No way I’m letting a kid in support hose beat me!” I picked up my pace. Now the finish line was in sight, and the kid wasn’t. Just then, some guy passed me — smoking a cigarette! No way I was letting the Marlboro Man beat me! I dug deep, but so did he. We were stride for stride, me puffing sweat and him puffing smoke. It was a dead sprint to the finish line! And I can’t remember who won. No, really, I can’t. But there is a lesson: It’s not how you start the race, but how you finish that matters. Ask Jesus to help you set your goals. Run the “race” with endurance. Rely on him to help you. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13). The victory goes to the plodders! L

Dr. George Anderson is pastor of Rising Hills Church, 3635 Univeter Road, Canton. RisingHillsChurch.org

Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

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| February 2022

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