Canton Family Life 3-22 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

March 2022

VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 8

18-19

[18-19]

On the Cover

Southern Air Pros

26-27 Minimalism Live More With Less

32 Artist Profile

Kurt Lee Wheeler

[26-27] [32] Follow Us >>>

Canton Family Life

Family Life Publications

| March 2022

.......................... Perspective

.............................. Calendar

....................... Canton Notes

.................... Community Life

................ Ball Ground Notes

................... Senator Speaks

........................ Public Safety

........................ Book Review

................... Teacher Feature

............................ Quotables

................... Ribbon Cuttings

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Publisher’sPerspective

_ Brighten Someone ’s Day_ W

hile driving down Highway 20 on the way to the office the other day, I was sorting through many thoughts including magazine deadlines, multiple family schedules, and a wealth of others. But my eyes were focused on the road ahead when I noticed a squirrel in the distance, patiently perched and alert between the two solid yellow lines. This squirrel was not like the franticly manic ones most of us are so familiar with. It appeared to have its act together (albeit in the middle of rush hour traffic).

My first consideration was, “Drive on. It’s cool. That rascal has got this.” Then, I thought, “I bet that squirrel would appreciate a break.” So, I whipped into the nearest driveway, somewhat fearing the worst after the passing of several cars, and turned around, curious about its mindset. Incredulously, it was still in the road but had become a typical nutty squirrel, dodging in and out from under a few cars on both sides of the highway. A couple of times, I just knew it was a goner. As I approached this darting and pivoting creature, I flashed my lights to oncoming traffic and slowed in my lane. The squirrel then returned to center and settled for a moment, glanced around, and turned toward me. With a sudden flick of its tail, it bounded into the safety of the grass and up a nearby oak tree. We sometimes find ourselves in dire situations with our careers or families, or it feels like we’re crossing a busy highway on all fours. Whatever chaos life throws our way, often all we need is for someone else to notice and empathize with our situation and bless us with a moment, a smile and a nod to make us feel better. That skittish squirrel may not remember that day, but providing him with a blessing sure helped me enjoy the rest of mine. Today, give a moment of your time to make someone else’s day a little brighter. It’s good for your heart, good for the soul, and reminds us what loving our neighbors as ourselves is all about.

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 Kelley Archer, Mary Kay Buquoi, City of Canton, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Lisa M. Grisham, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Norman R. Hunt, Barbara P. Jacoby, Karen Jordan, Michelle Mathieson, Tim Morris, John Rodgers, Ellen Samsell Salas, Bruce Thompson

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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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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Calendar MARCH

3-5

The University Opera — Enjoy beautiful opera performances by Reinhardt University students. Tickets are $12.50. 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Lewis Park Night Hike — This unique dusk-to-nightfall hike is approximately 1.5 miles. Snacks and water will be provided. Fee is $10 per participant. All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult). 6:30pm, Lewis Park, 100-4466 E. Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

2022 Cherokee Film Summit Hosted by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, this event brings together film industry pros and local creatives to participate in networking opportunities, breakout sessions, and panels led by experts. 5:00-9:00pm, YANMAR//Evo Center, 5889 Old Alabama Road, Acworth. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org

March Is

Business Is Blooming Spring Art Exhibition Every business has talented creatives, and this event will showcase them. Art created by members of local businesses will be on display, and you’ll have a chance to vote for your favorite. 6:00-8:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

Red Cedar Review — Enjoy live music from this Charleston, South Carolina, folk and bluegrass band. Tickets are $30/seniors and $35/adults. 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

11-20

Kansas: An Original Musical — Check out this theatrical performance, presented by Lolek’s Storytellers Theatre Company. Please visit the website for additional details, event times, and ticket pricing. Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov/cantontheatre

11 & 25

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

Women’s History Month

The majority of ancient cultures were patriarchal, practicing customs that held women in low esteem and limited their freedom. Through the centuries, many courageous women have stepped forward to fight inequality and to champion causes for the benefit of society. Their work to break down barriers has allowed future generations of women to pass through with less resistance. Women’s History Month honors these women.

Canton Family Life

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registration. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

10th Annual CASA SuperHero Run — This run benefits Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children, a program of The Children’s Haven, which advocates for the best interests of Cherokee’s foster youth. 8:00am 1 mile and 8:30am 5K start times, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Active. com/canton-ga/running/ distance-runningraces/10th-annualcasa-superhero-run5k-2022

Spring Yard Sale — Clean out your basements, closets, and garages, and sell your unneeded items at this event.

ONGOING Some Bunny Special — Through March 29, Cherokee Recreation & Parks Association will be collecting prefilled Easter baskets to be delivered to children in need throughout Cherokee County. Candy needs to be contained in the original, sealed package. Baskets should have Easter-related items only. 9:00am-8:00pm Monday-Thursday, 9:00am-5:00pm Friday, 9:00am-2:00pm Saturday, Recreation Center (South Annex), 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org Add

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Shamrocks and Pots of Gold St. Patrick’s Day is 3/17, so bring your child in for a fun and creative food adventure to celebrate this holiday one day early! Participants will decorate shamrock cookies, make a rainbow, a pot of gold, and enjoy lots of fun leprechaun favorite foods! This activity is for ages 4-12, and the fee is $38 per person. 4:15-5:15pm, Cherokee County Recreation Center, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

Booth pricing is 10x10 $10, 10x15 $15, and 10x20+ $20. This event is rain or shine. 8:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 East, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

Free AHA First Aid and Stop the Bleed Class — Learn First Aid skills including how to help someone involved in a traumatic bleeding incident. This fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am First Aid; 1:30pm Stop the Bleed, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org

Celebration of Education Gala Guests will enjoy dinner by 1885 Grill, musical performances by Ethan Senger and Kurt Lee Wheeler, and comedy stylings of Andrew Stanley. The event will also feature a silent auction and 50/50 raffle tickets. All proceeds benefit Cherokee County School District. 6:00pm, Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 404-683-0182. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org

Georgia Has Talent — This annual fundraiser brings together talent from all over Georgia (and beyond) to raise money for cancer research at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. The event features singers, dancers, martial artists,

and more. 7:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. GeorgiaHasTalent.com

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, Camellia Place, 294 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

Volunteer Park Clean Up and Maintenance — Volunteer to help clean and maintain our beloved parks. Many tools will be provided. Please register for this event, so organizers can plan accordingly. All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult). 9:00am-12:00pm, Sequoyah Park (location is subject to change based on park needs), 7000 Vaughn Road, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

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 (key words: Canton Business Club)

Bee Gees Gold — Enjoy a musical tribute to this popular 70s group. Tickets are $30/seniors and $35/adults. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

The Cherokee Chorale: Mozart Requiem — In its 34th season spring concert, the chorale will perform the Mozart Requiem under the direction of Scott L. Martin. Tickets are $15/adults and $5/ students. 4:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. CherokeeChorale.org

21 & 21

Spring Cornhole ATL-Canton Check out Georgia’s largest and fastest growing cornhole league where the competition is friendly, the beer is cold, and the fun never stops. 6:30-8:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

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Trivia on the Green — Each Thursday night, gather your dream team and compete for prizes! 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

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

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LIBRARY EVENTS SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org CalendarWiz.com/sequoyahreglib BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 770-735-2025

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

R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090 READY FOR RAINBOWS MUSIC AND MOVES! March 11, 10:30am, R.T. Jones This program is best for ages 0-4. Participants will dance, sing, and play games, so bring your dancing shoes and get ready to move. Registration is not required. SMALL GROUP SOCIAL March 11, 11:00am, Ball Ground In this low-pressure environment, Miss Cat will lead the conversation, and children ages 3-7 can participate and interact at their own comfort level. Please call to register. HOUSE PLANT SWAP March 12, 11:00am, Hickory Flat Have a houseplant you want to get rid of or too many cuttings that need a new home? Swap plants and cuttings at the library. Registration is not required. MAKE-A-MONSTER CRAFTING HOUR March 15, 4:30pm, Hickory Flat In anticipation of Sequoyah-Con on March 19, join Miss Leslie to make your very own fantastical monster creature! All supplies will be provided. No registration is required; all children must be accompanied by an adult. SEQUOYAH-CON IN CANTON March 19, all day, R.T. Jones All ages are invited to the library for a day of fandom fun. The R.T. Jones Memorial Library will be celebrating the fantasy genre with D&D, a Magic: The Gathering tournament, and miniature painting. CAFÉ Y CONVERSACIÓN March 29, 5:00pm, Ball Ground Practice your Spanish speaking in a judgment-free zone. Speakers of all experience levels are encouraged to come try their conversation skills among friends. Coffee and refreshments will be served. Please call to register. 8

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Team River Runner Atlanta Pool Session for Veterans — This FREE veteransonly event will cover white water kayaking, paddling skills, and roll practice. 7:30-9:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Holly Springs. 706- 974-4832. TRRAtlanta.org

Landscape of Guitar — Enjoy this artistic performance that blends beautiful live instrumentals on the guitar with delightful imagery that is projected on the stage’s screen. Tickets are $20/ seniors and $25/adults. 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Kurt Lee Wheeler and the Lathemtown Poet’s Society — Accompanied by his band, this Cherokee County singer/songwriter crafts raw, vulnerable portrayals of life in the American Southeast. His musical expressions range from country to bluegrass to rock. Please visit the website for ticket pricing. 7:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. KurtLeeWheelerMusic.com

26 & 27

Wing & Rock Fest Experience the region’s best tasting chicken wings from more than 20 restaurant and food trucks, selling 60+ flavors of wings that are grilled, fried, or smoked. Live music provided by School of Rock East Cobb House Band, El Scorcho (Weezer), Back N Black (AC/DC), Sammy (Sammy Hagar/Van Halen), and February Stars (Foo Fighters). There will also be an arts and crafts market and the WNB Factory wing eating contest. Saturday 12:00-7:00pm and Sunday 12:00-6:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. WingAndRockFest.com

APRIL

1&2

Live Music at the Mill — Spring has sprung! Come out for an evening of FREE live music and fun for the whole family. 5:00-7:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

Flashlight Egg Hunt — Enjoy this fun twist on a classic Easter activity. Before the hunt, there will be food vendors, music, face painting, crafts, a kid zone, and visits with the Easter Bunny! Flashlights and some Easter baskets will be available. Children will be divided into age groups up to 12 years old. The fee is $10 per child. 6:00pm event and 8:30pm egg hunt, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 East, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute — Enjoy cover renditions of songs made famous by this classic rock band. Tickets are $35/seniors and $40/adults. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

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CantonNotes

Women’s History Month

Get to Know Canton’s Councilwomen C

ommemorating and studying the often overlooked role of women in American history first began as a week of national celebration in 1982. Since 1987, March has been designated Women’s History Month, which is a time to honor and acknowledge the historic, societal, and cultural contributions of women in the U.S. The 2022 Women’s History Month theme “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” is “both a tribute to the ceaseless work of caregivers and frontline workers during this ongoing pandemic and also a recognition of the thousands of ways that women of all cultures have provided both healing and hope throughout history,” (National Women’s History Alliance). According to City of Canton records, only six women have ever served on its City Council: Margaret Logan, Amelia Rose, JoEllen Wilson, Pat Tanner, Sandy McGrew, and Brooke Schmidt. Despite that number, three of the six elected members in Canton’s current City Council are women. These three leaders work together with all City staff to prioritize the tenets of Canton’s Roadmap for Success and to engage with residents.

City of Canton, 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov

women’s INTERNATIONAL DAY

On March 8, countries around the world recognize the economic, political, and social achievements of women.

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PROMOTING HOPE IN 2022 JoEllen Wilson A seasoned Canton City Council member, Wilson served four full terms on City Council from 1990 to 2009 and was elected again in 2019. An avid boater and camper, she also loves to read and spend time with her husband, John. For her constituents, Wilson “HOPEs” to be Honest, Open, Progressive, and Enthusiastic. Sandy McGrew Now in her third term as a councilor, McGrew has been a Canton resident since 2006. She served the Gwinnett County School System for 12 years as a technology lab manager/ paraprofessional and enjoyed teaching new skills to children. Photography is a favorite hobby she shares with her husband, Gary Mullet. McGrew finds hope “in the women who are working and have done work to preserve and improve the environment. Women such as Jane Goodall and Winona LaDuke have spent their lives working toward sustainability.” Brooke Schmidt Halfway through her first term as a councilor, Schmidt is excited to help the new Canton Cultural Arts Commission create civic engagement and placemaking in the city. Schmidt says, “I hold hope in challenging circumstances, like those of the last two years, because Canton always shows what it means to be a village, to be supportive. I want to continue to maintain that spirit of community while ensuring future generations want to call Canton ‘home,’ thanks to visionary economic development and responsible growth decisions.”

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Age-Appropriate Fitness Tips By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[AcademicLife] Focusing your child’s physical fitness on fun activities will enhance his/her ability to move with confidence and competence. Exercise increases overall metabolism, builds a healthy heart and lungs as well as strong bones and muscles, and improves coordination, balance, posture, and flexibility.

Infants Encourage babies to explore activities that allow for reaching, rolling, sitting, crawling, pulling themselves up, and walking. Tummy time is the perfect opportunity for infants to practice lifting their heads and develop strong muscles. Placing toys just out of reach encourages babies to reach for the toys, assisting in physical development.

First Steps/Toddlers Support young toddlers’ mastery of walking by allowing them to be active. Play with them, as they learn to run, hop, dance, and throw. Inventing a silly walk or enticing toddlers to chase bubbles effortlessly transitions play into exercise. Remember to always encourage little ones, as they build self-confidence.

Preschoolers+ Preschoolers need plenty of time and space to run around and play. Taking your child to a playground or park is a great way for him/her to burn off some energy and get some exercise. Encourage creative dancing and riding scooters or tricycles. Enjoy a game called Statues by playing up-tempo music, and having your child move while the music is on and freeze into a “statue” when you pause it. Play outside with your child and teach handeye coordination by showing the basics of throwing, catching, and kicking a large, soft ball.

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

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Community City of Canton News

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Mayor Bill Grant’s State of the City Address On the evening of Feb. 3, Mayor Bill Grant presented his State of the City Address to a large crowd in City Hall and to viewers via livestream. His address recognized the challenges we’ve faced as individuals and as a city, but highlighted all that we have accomplished working together and what we have to look forward to in 2022. “I am proud to report that the challenges of the last 24 months have not slowed down our city’s progress or our goal of becoming the Coolest Small Town in America. With a strategic roadmap in place at the beginning of 2021, our dedicated Council and staff diligently planned our work and worked our plan. We have delivered on old promises and created new aspirations to improve the quality of life for ALL Canton residents throughout our city. “Tonight, the State of our City is more promising than ever, and with an ambitious roadmap in place and a City Council that is never content with resting on its laurels, Canton is fulfilling its true potential. “For me, 2021 was by far the most productive year that I have witnessed in my 8 years of public service. If we reviewed everything we accomplished in our roadmap, we would be here until midnight. As I began to put this list of a few of the more notable 2021 accomplishments together, I realized we need to do a better job of sharing our victories with our residents. I hope you will agree 2021 was successful in moving Canton forward as a great place to live, work, play, and serve.” Please scan the QR code to watch the entire SOTC address.

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City Honored With a Visionary Award During the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) 2022 Cities United Summit, the City of Canton received a Visionary City Award for the it’s Roadmap for Success initiative. Awarded to nine cities each year — three from each population size group: under 4,999, 5,000-24,999, and over 25,000, the Visionary City Award honors cities that have created positive community change through effective civic engagement and collaboration. “The City of Canton is extremely honored to receive the Visionary City Award from the Georgia Municipal Association and Georgia Trend magazine,” said Mayor Bill Grant. “This prestigious recognition for our City’s forward thinking, collaboration, and civic engagement is a true testament to the exemplary leadership our Council and management team have demonstrated with the creation and implementation of our Roadmap for Success. “While this award is a high honor,” Grant continued, “it is even more gratifying to have other cities and leaders in Georgia contacting us to learn how Canton’s Roadmap and vision can help them move their own communities forward. This is truly leading with success, and we are humbled by this special recognition.”

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Creekview HS Agriculture Program Earns National Award The Creekview HS agriculture program, led by teacher Pauline Benton, is one of only six agricultural education programs nationwide to earn the Outstanding Secondary/Middle School Program Award from the National Association of Agricultural Educators. The award honors agricultural education programs that “have developed and grown to encompass, at the highest levels, all aspects of the agricultural education model – quality instruction, experiential learning, and student leadership development – into their program.” The school’s Career Pathways program in agriculture began seven years ago with a focus on horticulture, but since has grown under Benton’s leadership to include equine science, veterinary science, agriculture electrification and agricultural mechanics, as well as a second teacher, Wyatt Wilkie. The program also has expanded thanks to the construction of a new agriculture science building, approved by the School Board and constructed using Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) revenue and a state grant.

Creekview HS agriculture teacher Pauline Benton, center, accepts the 2021 Outstanding Secondary/ Middle School Program Award from National Association of Agricultural Educators leaders. Add

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Community

History Cherokee Launches Black History Committee History Cherokee recently launched a new committee dedicated to the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Black history in Cherokee County. The goal is to collect personal accounts, images, and artifacts that tell stories about Black people in our area from the earliest settlement to today. “The history of Black people is often overlooked,” said Harvee White, History Cherokee’s education manager. “When it comes to collection and preservation, elements of Black history get disregarded by the institutions that decide whose history gets saved and whose doesn’t, and we want to do our part in changing that in Cherokee County,.” History Cherokee has already made exciting headway on this commitment. Currently, staff members are working with a Georgia film crew and local civil rights activists to create a documentary on the integration of the former Canton Theatre. Visitors will find this documentary at the Cherokee County History Center when it opens this summer. To join History Cherokee’s Black History Committee, contact Harvee White at HWhite@historycherokee.org.

Welcome Cherokee County’s New Fire Chief Current Deputy Chief of Support Services Eddie Robinson has been selected as the next fire chief and will begin his new role this month. He is succeeding Chief Tim Prather, who has served Cherokee County for 35 years. “When reviewing the applications and interviewing for the fire chief position, Chief Robinson stood out as a natural successor to Chief Prather,” said County Manager Geoff Morton. “He brings substantial institutional knowledge to the role, having served with Fire and Emergency Services since 1994 including the last 11 years at headquarters.”

Cherokee Recreation & Parks Commemorative Brick Program Receives Donation Cherokee County employees, who are active duty or retired military personnel, are being honored thanks to a generous donation to the Cherokee Recreation & Parks Commemorative Brick Program.

Fire Chief Eddie Robinson

Robinson began his career with Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services in 1999. He was promoted to safety officer in 2001 and then to administrative captain/safety officer. In 2011, he was promoted to assistant fire chief. Last year, he was named deputy chief of support services. “I have dedicated my life to the American fire service and to the residents of our wonderful county, and I will lead the department to the best of my ability with the help of some of the best men and women that the fire service can have. I want to thank Chief Prather for his support over the years, and Mr. Morton for entrusting me to lead Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services,” Robinson said.

At a recent Board of Commissioners meeting, Will Tomasello and Becky Massave, founders of Legacy Event Management, presented a $4,500 donation to Cherokee Recreation & Parks Director Jay Worley. The donation will be used to purchase bricks for all active and retired military personnel currently employed by Cherokee County and will be displayed at the Cherokee Veterans Park Monument. All proceeds from the program benefit the construction and upkeep of the monument.

In 2020, Robinson earned the distinguished Georgia Fire Chief Certification from the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs. He has attended numerous fire service training opportunities and is an active instructor for fire services throughout the state. Additionally, Robinson is responsible for creating the county’s Patriot Day Ceremony, which is held each September in remembrance of September 11, 2001. Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

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Community Donation Made to Cherokee Senior Services Meals on Wheels Program Cherokee County Senior Services, Trainhopper Disc Golf, and Stand Up For Seniors (formerly known as the Volunteer Aging Council) recently partnered to host the 21st Annual Cold Snake Classic Disc Golf Tournament to raise funds for Cherokee County’s Meals on Wheels program. The tournament was held at Sequoyah Park and drew 143 players from across the state. All proceeds from the event benefit Stand Up For Seniors, which supports the county’s Meals on Wheels program and other programs for local seniors. Tournament Director Mark Sheldon recently presented a check for $5,500 to the organization from funds raised at the event. For more information on Stand Up For Seniors, visit VACCherokeeGa.org, or to learn more about the Meals on Wheels program, visit Cherokeega.com/Senior-Services.

2022 Cherokee County Board of Commissioners Retreat The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners recently took part in a two-day retreat at Barnsley Resort in Adairsville to tackle plans for finances, public safety, roads, and planning and zoning. The Board heard presentations from the finance department, sheriff’s office, fire department, community development, and human resources. Additionally, the Board discussed the upcoming Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) renewal, as well as courthouse expansion and parking. To read the full report, as well as notes and information from other recent Board of Commissioners meetings, please visit CherokeeGa.com.

Cherokee Chamber Holds 51st Annual Meeting The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce reflected on 2021 while announcing 2022 primary goals during the organization’s recent annual meeting. Sponsored by Northside Hospital Cherokee, the event featured Chick-fil-A Foundation Executive Director Rodney Bullard as the keynote speaker. In the changing of the guard, outgoing Board Chair Adam Smith passed the gavel to 2022 Chair Brian Stevens. The following volunteers were recognized for completing a three-year term on the Chamber Board: Dr. Brian Hightower, Cherokee County School District; Melissa Madigan, Truist; Katie Pearson, Northside Hospital Cherokee; Frank Reynolds, Cherokee County Sheriff; and Guillermo Sanabia, Wellstar. Recognized for serving on the Chamber Board for the past four years was Mandy Chapman, Roytec Industries. Immediate past Chair David Simmons, Chattahoochee Technical College Vice President for Facilities, was recognized for his six years of service. These volunteers are beginning a three-year term on the Chamber Board of Directors: Neil Blackman, Corblu Ecology Group, LLC; Mark Goddard, Cobb EMC; Brandon Hartley, AT&T Georgia; Eric Rein, Renasant Bank; Jeff Rusbridge, Dyer & Rusbridge, PC; Jennifer Stanley, Northside Hospital Cherokee; and Jay Street, Automated Solutions Consulting Group, Inc. Among the awards presented was the 47th Annual First Citizen of Cherokee County, which was bestowed upon longtime Cherokee County resident Robert F. Logan (top). Additional accolades went to Lead Edge Design Group, Inc., 2022 Small Business of the Year (middle); Next Step Ministries, 2022 Nonprofit of the Year (bottom); and Professional Benefits Consultants, 2022 Excellence in Customer Service Award winner. All four recipients were chosen by out-of-town judges. The 2021 Chairman’s Council Joan McFather Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Kendall Jones with MUST Ministries, as he best exemplified ongoing dedication throughout the past year as a Chamber ambassador while contributing dozens of volunteer hours on the Chairman’s Council. This award, bearing the name of longtime Chamber volunteer Joan McFather, has been given in her name since her death in 2019.

Community Development Director Brantley Day presents to the Board of Commissioners during the annual retreat. 14

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The mission of the Cherokee County Chamber, a Georgia Certified Chamber, is to promote business and the community while expanding the economy and enhancing the quality of life. To learn more about the Chamber, visit CherokeeChamber.com. Add

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Community Leadership and Teen Leadership Cherokee Class of 2022 Announced The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 33rd Anniversary Leadership Cherokee (LC) class as well as its 21st Annual Teen Leadership Cherokee (TLC) class. Leadership Cherokee Class of 2022, front row (L-R) Jennifer Reynolds, Cherokee County School District; Ashley Witcher, UGA Extension-Cherokee County; Lauren Voss, Cherokee Recreation & Parks; Marcie Smith, The Children’s Haven, Inc.; Donna Sanders, City of Holly Springs; Melissa Grubbs, Universal Alloy Corporation; Ashton Banks, The Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation; Tori O’Bryant, Northside Primary Care Associates; and Geri Lanning, J Thompson Ross Investments. Second row (L-R) Ryan Sarks, Cherokee County Water & Sewerage Authority; Mindy Nobis, City of Woodstock; Brooke Schmidt, City of Canton; Amanda Sutter, Cherokee Office of Economic Development; Emily Mack, Northside Hospital Cherokee; Susan Treadaway, Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office; Charlie Lanz, Calco Engineering, LLC; and Mark Hand, City of Woodstock. Back row (L-R) Shawn Schumacher, Cherokee Recreation & Parks; Rajpaul Sagoo, MDD Holdings; Chris Luly, City of Ball Ground; Chris Saxon, Cherokee County School District; and Jud Waites, Waites Law Firm.

The 22 members of the LC class were chosen following participation in a nomination, application, and interview process. The class recently traveled to Brasstown Valley Resort for a retreat, during which members participated in both indoor and outdoor team building exercises. Over the next several months, the LC class will participate in a broad range of sessions that will focus on a variety of topics such as economic development, infrastructure, government, justice, education, recreation, tourism, public safety, health care, and social/human services. Following the nine-month program, the LC class will graduate during a ceremony in September. The TLC applicants, all high school sophomores who live in Cherokee County, were asked to submit an in-depth application including their school and community involvement as well as a video answering the question “Why should I be selected for Teen Leadership Cherokee?” After reviewing the applications and videos, local business leaders selected the class.

TLC Class of 2022, front row (L-R) Nora Khorrat, Creekview; Becca Duncan, Creekview; Dania Gonzalez, Woodstock; Jennifer Ramos-Hernandez, Sequoyah; McKenna Kazee, River Ridge; Ali Feuerstein, Woodstock; Kinley Sikes, Creekview; and Remy Charleston, Cherokee. Back row (L-R) ViceChair Emili Roman, Carter Canfield, Creekview; Bryce Jones, Woodstock; Clark Hayes, Homeschool; Robbie Macmillan, Woodstock; Elijah Herbert, Creekview; Sullivan Burke, Woodstock; Cam’ron Walker, Sequoyah; Hayden Roberson, Cherokee; Vlad Stogniy, Woodstock; and Chair Jey Willis.

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

The TLC Class attended an orientation with their parents and a retreat on January 22, which was held at the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. The 17 class members have been working to develop a sense of community while discovering the impact of teamwork upon their peers, schools, and county. A graduation ceremony will be held later this month. The mission of Teen Leadership Cherokee is for participants to lead, educate, aspire, and drive themselves, so that they may confidently become our community’s next generation of leaders. For more information on the Chamber and its programs, visit CherokeeChamber.com.

FamilyLife Publications.com

BallGroundNotes

Ball Ground’s Elected Officials Are Positioned to Serve Residents By Karen Jordan

all Ground is off to a great start this year. In January, we welcomed two new council members, Dennis Nelson and Kristine Rogers, and Mayor A. R. (Rick) Roberts, III, is back for another term. Vicki Benefield was sworn in as council member last November to fill the unexpired term of Frank Homiller. Even though Benefield, Rogers, and Nelson have never served as elected officials, they have hit the ground running. As required by Georgia Law, mayors and city council members who are elected or reelected after July 1, 1990, must attend the Newly Elected Institute coordinated by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). This training, which took place last month, provides an orientation to city government and prepares new municipal officials to face the variety of situations they encounter upon taking office. Benefield has been a Ball Ground resident for five years. Her love for our city prompted her to run for a seat on the city council. Her goal is to preserve the current quality of life in Ball Ground for all to enjoy for generations to come. Nelson has been a Ball Ground resident for three years. He also loves our city and wants to preserve the quality of life that is valued by those who live here. While employed in law enforcement for the past 41 years, Nelson gained knowledge and experience working with elected officials and citizens, which he believes will serve him well as a member of city council. Rogers has been a Ball Ground resident for more than 15 years. She has a genuine passion for our city and believes her past workforce experience uniquely qualifies her to sit on the city council.

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| March 2022

Mayor Roberts began his term as council member in January 1986. In June 1988, then Mayor John Segars vacated his seat to run for probate judge, and Roberts was sworn in as mayor in the July 1988 council meeting where he served until the end of 1993.

Dennis Nelson

Roberts’ break from politics did not last long. When Mayor Calvin Hill vacated his seat in January 1996, Roberts was once again sworn in as Ball Ground’s mayor and has held the position ever since. Much has been accomplished under the leadership of Mayor Roberts and the men and women who have served alongside him. Their vision and hard work have made Ball Ground what it is today. Mayor Roberts has often said, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying,” and our city has grown quite a bit in in the last few decades.

Kristine Rogers

The 1990 census showed that Ball Ground had a population of 905. The most recent census revealed a population of 2,560, and the city continues to grow.

Under the leadership of Mayor Roberts and the current city council, residents can rest assured that we will continue to progress responsibly to ensure that Ball Ground always remains The Place To Be!

Mayor A. R. (Rick) Roberts, III

Karen Jordan is the city clerk for Ball Ground. 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. CityOf BallGround.com

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Neighborhood Date Night Ideas [Lifestyle] Looking for a great way to spend some quality time with that special person in your life? Look no further than just outside your front door. Residents of masterplanned communities enjoy access to a wide variety of activities and amenities that are perfect for couples searching for a fun date night close to home. Curious about what date night around the neighborhood looks like, and how you can plan one of your own? Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Hit the Courts There’s nothing quite like some friendly competition to get the blood flowing. Master-planned communities offer a variety of active lifestyle amenities for residents to enjoy including courts for tennis, basketball, as well as pickleball, which is one of the newest sports on the rise across the country.

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

By Kelley Archer

Whether you and your date are seasoned pros or trying a new activity for the first time, the community courts are a great place for some fitness and fun.

Take a Stroll in the Great Outdoors If it’s a peaceful walk through nature that you and your partner are looking for, then explore the paths that await right outside your door. Many master-planned communities offer miles of sidewalks and trails, as you explore the natural beauty and green spaces that await around every corner.

Attend a Community Event Date night is a great time to get social and meet neighbors and friends throughout the community, and in master-planned communities, there’s no shortage of events to choose from! From weekly happy hours to community coffees and more, a community’s lifestyle director provides residents with a calendar chock-full of fun get togethers to enjoy each month. L

Kelley Archer is the marketing manager for Landeavor, the developer of the Great Sky community, 100 Sun Shower Ridge, Canton. 770-704-0234. GreatSkyGa.com

FamilyLife Publications.com

COVER STORY By Ellen Samsell Salas

A Breath of Fresh Air A TEAM THAT WORKS FOR YOU Bill Lewis, owner and founder of Southern Air Pros Heating and Cooling, is an avid reader, dedicated husband, and outdoor enthusiast who, with his wife, Zora, started this Cherokee-based family business in 2014. Dedicated to the philosophy of “do the right thing,” this company is led by Bill, at the helm; Zora, who handles behind-the-scenes office support; Hilda, Bill’s mother, who provides prompt and friendly customer service; and Wendy Rogers, who takes care of social media and provides backup for Hilda. The company’s highly trained technicians, with Andrew Rogers as the lead and Bill’s “right-hand man,” ensure that customers are comfortable, during the hot humid days of summer and the cold gray days of winter. Together, they consistently earn 5-star ratings from customers and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. They are also two-time winners of Family Life’s “Best of” distinction. Serving homes and businesses throughout Cherokee County, the team guarantees reliable maintenance, repairs, and replacement (if needed), always providing

solutions that work for each individual home or business and designed to meet each client’s specific needs. Having worked in the HVAC industry for decades, Bill, a U.S. Navy veteran, is now a certified craft instructor for the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and, in partnership with the Matiak Foundation, oversees technicians’ ongoing, nationally accredited HVAC education. As an Elite Dealer with International Comfort Products (ICP), Bill and his team complete annual training that exceeds state requirements and allows Southern Air Pros to give its customers the best service possible while providing quality products and enhanced warranties.

BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS AND PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND Key to earning their customers’ trust is Southern Air Pros’ service plan, which includes semiannual visits where team members complete a thorough 28-point checklist. These visits not only extend the lifespan of equipment but also help forge relationships that are central to the company’s mission. Bill and his team get to know families, their homes, and their HVAC needs. He’s happy that less than 2% of customers with annual maintenance agreements had problems in 2021. When HVAC emergencies arise, Southern Air Pros responds quickly, usually arriving the day service is requested. Keeping their customers’ busy lives in mind, the company provides a one-hour arrival window, not the standard four hours. After evaluating the problem, specialists recommend common sense repairs, explaining options that will work for the client’s home and budget. And, because technicians do not work on commission or receive bonuses for sales, customers can rest easy knowing recommendations are honest and suited to meet their needs. With the comfort of their clients in mind, each truck is well stocked, so that minor repairs can be solved immediately, while the company’s warehouse in Woodstock assures that even when larger jobs are required, clients’ needs are handled without delay.

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| March 2022

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BILL’S TIPS FOR STAYING COMFORTABLE YEAR-ROUND •

Replace 1-inch filters every three months with pleated filters to provide cleaner air.

•

Have refrigerant levels checked before spring for optimum comfort.

•

Ensure condenser coils are clean to provide proper cooling of refrigerant.

•

Use ceiling fans, so you feel 2-3 degrees cooler due to moisture evaporation, as air moves across your skin.

•

Make only minor adjustments to your thermostat for improved comfort and efficiency. Big changes cause the system to work harder to hold a steady temp.

“Our most important customer is the one who’s already trusted us. We value those customers and the relationships we’ve built with them.” – BILL LEWIS, FOUNDER

ALL ABOUT GIVING BACK

“Our goal is to ensure that each time we are invited into your home or business, you are comfortable in your decision. We strive to provide you with the best possible products, service, and people for your investment. When you are comfortable, only then can we say we are done,” Bill said.

The Southern Air Pros commitment to doing the right thing also extends to the local community. “Giving back is who we are, and a key reason Southern Air Pros is unique,” said Bill. As a business and as individuals, team members support local charities and organizations, forging relationships that help make Cherokee County a great place to live.

OFFERING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR CUSTOMER’S HOMES Key to Southern Air Pros’ success are the personal relationships established with clients. The team knows their customers and the needs of each family’s home or business. Whether it’s adding an HVAC system to a basement, completing standard repairs/ service, improving air quality, or adding zone control to homes that have hot and cold spots, Southern Air Pros does not rely on generic fixes. Instead, technicians assess and then offer multiple innovative options to fit each home. “Understanding a home and its HVAC needs is part art, part science,” said Bill. “The science is that equipment is designed to work a certain way, but you have to look for many variables. Maybe a room lacks adequate duct work, maybe it’s over an uninsulated garage. You must always consider the variables before offering a solution.” Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

“Our growth and success have allowed us to give back in ways I didn’t think possible when we first started. And that is what I’m most proud of,” Bill said.

Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 116-285, Woodstock, GA 30189

770-713-0168

SouthernAirPros.com

CustomerService@southernairpros.com An Elite Dealer with International Comfort Products (ICP) Products

Winner Best of Woodstock Heating and Air Services 2022 FamilyLife Publications.com

Senator Speaks

Trust Issues By State Senator Bruce Thompson

he handshake has been a symbolic gesture of mutual admiration, commitment, and a universal sign of trust for hundreds of years. Its origination can be traced to a 5th century sculpture depicting two soldiers shaking hands after a battle. Another theory is the handshake originated in the 9th century after Assyrian King Shalmaneser III shook hands with Babylonian King Marduk-zakirshumi, sealing an alliance between their military groups. Regardless of when or where it began, shaking hands became a staple in American society until March of 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic reached the U.S. As if public trust wasn’t already being tested, this served to further erode the level of confidence among people. It is well documented that there is a direct correlation between touching and building trust. A recent study outlines how touching causes the body to release neuropeptide oxytocin, which increases our ability to put our faith in others. Public trust has always been questioned and tested, as is indicated by the famous quote, “Trust but verify,” which President Ronald Reagan used in talks with Mikhail Gorbachev in 1986. At the time, the INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) Treaty was being negotiated between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. involving the elimination of various missiles. There is a long history of broken promises between our two countries, so words and handshakes would not suffice — Reagan demanded tangible evidence.

Canton Family Life

| March 2022

More recently, in 2009, Bernie Madoff was convicted of conducting the largest Ponzi scheme in history, bilking thousands of investors out of nearly $64.8 billion. According to a recent study, the public’s lack of trust in corporations, the financial world, and the government has fallen to historic lows of around 25%, which is roughly three points lower than during the Watergate scandal of the 1970s. Like many others, the only way I can stay relatively organized is to schedule everything on a daily calendar. With six different people regularly adding appointments, it’s easy to overlook or even miss one of the commitments that have been made to others. The good news is that God knows how vitally important trust is — it is included 186 times in the Bible. He doesn’t need a day planner to keep his appointments, and he has been/is 100% trustworthy in the past, the present, and forever. In 1955, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed into law a bill requiring the inscription “In God We Trust” to appear on all paper and coin currency. The bill was introduced by Rep. Charles E. Bennett of Florida as a reminder that America was founded in a spiritual atmosphere and with a firm trust in God. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight,” Proverbs 3:5-6.

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

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Answers to Common Orthodontic Questions [HealthyLife] Here are answers to some questions that patients often ask: What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in orthodontics, which is a branch of dentistry that “deals with irregularities of the teeth (such as malocclusion) and their correction (as by braces),” (MerriamWebster.com). To become an orthodontist, a dentist must complete an orthodontic residency. How many years of school does it take to become an orthodontist? After high school, it took an additional 10 years to become an orthodontist. I completed college a semester early (3.5 years), 4 years of dental school, and 2.5 years of orthodontic residency. Why become an orthodontist? I became an orthodontist to help others improve their smile and self-esteem. I knew I wanted to be an orthodontist after I shadowed my own orthodontist when I was in high school. I started working as an assistant and fell in love with the dental field. There are many challenges, but helping others smile makes it all worthwhile.

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

By Dr. Michelle Mathieson

What are the benefits of starting your own practice? I decided to start my own practice because I wanted to focus on quality care and having a comfortable environment for patients and parents. I want my office to be a home away from home for anyone who walks in the door. Do orthodontists treat adults or just kids and teens? I treat patients ages 4-75+ years old. Nowadays, many adults seek orthodontic treatment. There are lots of aesthetic options like clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces, or braces that go on the backs of teeth. At what age should children begin seeing an orthodontist? Children should begin seeing an orthodontist by age seven, so growth and spacing for permanent teeth can be evaluated. Sometimes, if there is a problem that can negatively affect jaw growth or permanent teeth coming in, early treatment is required.

Dr. Michelle Mathieson is an orthodontist at Harmony Orthodontics, 149 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 2, Canton. 770-988-6552. HarmonyOrthoStudio.com

FamilyLife Publications.com

PublicSafety

Chief Tim Prather’s

By Lisa M. Grisham

herokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather recently announced his retirement and will turn over his command on March 11, 2022. His dedication to the fire service and public safety spans more than 47 years. Chief Prather was raised in the fire service. The son of Chief T.J. Prather, who was with the City of Jasper Fire Department, Chief Prather knew he would follow in his father’s footsteps. He dedicated his life to the fire service as a volunteer firefighter, career firefighter, and finally, chief of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. There was a brief time when he worked as a law enforcement officer for Jasper Police Department, Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. Having spent the last 35 years serving the citizens of Cherokee County, Chief Prather is proud to have worked with some of the very best personnel in the industry. “This service delivery is accomplished only through the elite group of professional men and women who are motivated, trained, and dedicated to the preservation of life

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and property, who are ‘proud to serve’ and ‘second to none.’ After three decades of service, I will truly miss serving the citizens of Cherokee County. I have been asked many times if I am happy to retire and counting the days, and my reply continues to be the same, ‘No, I’m not really happy, probably more sad, and no, I am not counting the days.’ I will miss this place and the great employees who surround me,” Chief Prather said. Having acquired much knowledge over his decades of service, Chief Prather said the following when asked what he would like to impart to his fellow public servants: “My career started at the very bottom. I have always been the one to want to help others. I have always loved my job and was very dedicated in each facet of the profession. I miss working in field operations, but management has been very rewarding to help drive improvement and grow this department to where it is today. I have been blessed with a great, knowledgeable staff. I believe I am a great example of applying yourself: work hard, respect your fellow employees, treat everyone as an equal, be as consistent as possible, and just simply be honest, trustworthy, and always try to do the right and fair thing.”

Chief Prather leaves a wonderful legacy for the next chief and serves as a positive example for Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services as well as the community. After retiring, Chief Prather says he will enjoy a break for a few weeks but has no plans to sit down for long. There’s sure to be some fishing, hunting, and time spent with his grandchildren and lovely wife, Shirley. He also has some other opportunities in the works, which he will announce when the time is right. Thank you, Chief Prather, for your hard work ethic and leadership. You will be missed but never forgotten. You’ve made an impact in the fire service and in Cherokee County that will leave some big shoes to fill. Job well done, sir.

Lisa M. Grisham is the senior fire safety educator for Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services and the coordinator for Safe Kids Cherokee County. 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 678-493-6296. CherokeeCountyFire.org

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Book Review BY JOHN RODGERS

Biographies Written by Brian Jay Jones On Saturday, March 19, Sequoyah Regional Library System presents its annual convention: Sequoyah-Con! All ages are invited to the R.T. Jones, Woodstock, and Gilmer libraries for a day of fandom fun. Think of it as a mini Comic-Con or Dragon Con with one big difference — Sequoyah-Con is free to attend. Woodstock Public Library will be spending all day “in a galaxy far, far away” with Star Wars cosplay, trivia, Jedi Training, and a virtual reality lightsaber experience. The R.T. Jones Memorial Library will be celebrating the fantasy genre with Dungeons & Dragons, a Magic: The Gathering tournament, and miniature painting, while the Gilmer County Library will be home to all things anime. See the full schedule at CalendarWiz.com/sequoyahreglib. Fans of Star Wars and/or the fantasy genre can pregame for the big day by reading about the visionaries behind some of their favorite works. Author Brian Jay Jones has written comprehensive biographies of Muppet creator Jim Henson (director of fantasy favorites The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth), Star Wars creator George Lucas, and Theodor Geisel (otherwise known as Dr. Seuss). Good news! The library has all three. Extensively researched and featuring reflections from the people who knew these men best, each book paints a never-before-seen picture of these artists at their most creative, most vulnerable, and most human. Better yet, Jones expertly writes from the perspective of someone who truly understands what makes these men tick, to the point where readers will almost feel as if they knew them personally. Even minor details, such as how Jones chooses to refer to his subjects in each biography (the serious George Lucas is always referred to as “Lucas,” but calling the playful Jim Henson anything other than “Jim” just wouldn’t feel right), completely nail the tone of each life story being told. Fans with even a passing interest in these creators or their creations are encouraged to borrow these biographies from the library and clear their calendars for Sequoyah-Con.

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. 770-479-3090, x320. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Body Building Secrets By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] While hitting the gym or working out with your friends at the local Crossfit box may make you buff, it will have little effect on building that other body — the body of your hair. Just as some people are more genetically fit than others, the same is true for the natural volume in your hair. So, if you’re looking for ways to add more volume to your tresses, these industry secrets should help you.

SECRET #1 Adding body and volume starts at your roots, so begin with a quality shampoo that cleanses them. If you’re currently shampooing every day, you may be stripping some of the natural oils from your scalp, which could cause it to over-produce oil and weigh down your hair. If this is the case, try cleansing your scalp every other day and follow up with a conditioner, starting at the middle and proceeding down to the ends of your hair. Also, consider using a dry shampoo, which is excellent for absorbing extra oil, dirt, and odor.

SECRET #2 The longer your hair, the more strain it puts on your roots, making it harder for your strands to stand up. If you want to keep the length and increase volume, consider adding some concave layers, which will help keep the weight towards the ends and lightness towards the crown. For short hair, consider adding some graduation to help build up weight and body. While graduated haircuts come in many varieties, they are great for giving the appearance of more volume.

SECRET #3 This secret is one celebrities definitely wouldn’t want you to know. Thanks to the wide variety of options for all hair types, hair extensions are one of the fastest ways to add instant volume and density to almost any hairstyle. Extensions are also very versatile since you can cut, color, and style them like you would your normal hair. When done professionally, no one will know this stealthy approach to your style.

SECRET #4 If you’re serious about adding more body to your hair, consider applying a volumizing spray from roots to ends before you begin blow drying to create a finished look. Many professional hair care products have long-lasting root support and can deliver added texture and body to your locks. Adding more volume to your hair is only a few steps away. With these tips and many more your hairdresser can offer, you can begin building the hair body of your dreams. L

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

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| March 2022

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Cherokee’s New Backyard Agriculture Education Station By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Cherokee Veterans Park is home to the new Backyard Agriculture Education Station (BAES), which officially opens March 22. The quarter-acre site, located near the tennis courts, includes raised beds, fruit trees, berry bushes, bulbs, native wildflowers and, eventually, an educational pavilion and a greenhouse. It is designed to be a place where UGA Extension and Master Gardener volunteers can lead classes and workshops about fruit and vegetable gardening. The produce will be donated to local food missions. The project plan began in the first half of 2019. After visits to several different sites, the quarter acre of unused grass at Veterans Park was offered, and it checked all the boxes: water access, flat terrain, full sun, and easy public access. The next few months were spent drafting a project plan, which had to be approved by

the Cherokee County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Following approval, fundraising began in earnest with a couple of fruit plant sales and grants from Cherokee County Farm Bureau, UGA Center for Urban Ag, Home Depot, and other private donations. Additional in-kind services, plants, materials, and time have been provided by several local businesses and individuals. We had incredible support from two young men who earned their Eagle Scout rank with their supporting projects in 2021. Trent Daniel of Troop 8880 in Holly Springs raised funds, organized volunteers, and managed the construction of the 10 raised beds, and Noah Boynton of Troop 287 in Marietta took on the task of replacing weeds with native pollinator species and spreading mulch on a sloped portion of the BAES. These young men exhibited leadership and service while their teams of 40-50 volunteers worked very efficiently.

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

Finally, a huge credit is due to the dedicated Cherokee County Master Gardeners who have supported this project along the way. We look forward to the learning, relationships, and nourishment that will grow along with the project. The public is welcome to attend the official ribbon cutting on March 22 at 3:00pm. For more information on upcoming classes, follow the Cherokee Master Gardeners on social media or visit CherokeeMasterGardeners.com.

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

MINIMALISM Live More With Less By Ellen Samsell Salas

you often stand in your closet, paralyzed by the glut of choices? Does your twocar garage, chock full of sports equipment, tools, and boxes, have no room for vehicles? Is your basement so full of decorations, mementos, and old furniture that you rent extra storage space? In short, does it seem like your once spacious home has shrunk, as item after item has invaded cupboards and closets and filled every flat surface? If one (or all) of these scenarios rings true, you might discover that peace and joy can be found in changing from a conspicuous consumption mindset to a mindful minimalist lifestyle. While experts in how to adopt minimalism differ in approach — some advocating a no-holdsbarred, cold-turkey assault on one’s stuff and others suggesting a gentler ousting of clutter, starting with only one or two items a day, slowly accelerating to a more aggressive mode — all agree that owning less actually creates more freedom, greater happiness, and less stress.

THE PERKS OF MINIMALISM It’s easier to find everything. Get ready for work in a stress-free environment. Spend less money and incur less debt. Teach children to value what is truly valuable. Focus on what really matters. Stay true to who you really are.

REDUCE BY CATEGORY Marie Kondo, author of the bestselling book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, brought minimalism to the forefront of the American psyche. She advocates reducing your belongings by categories. Why? Many people have so much stuff that it ends up stashed wherever there is a spare inch. Clothes end up in guest closets and linen closets. Craft supplies invade laundry rooms. Pots and pans and dishes migrate from the kitchen to the basement. So, using this method ensures that all clothes, books, and other categories are found and tackled at one time. Kondo also recommends that you place all items in a category on the floor, then hold each item. Does it “spark joy” when held? If not, do not keep it. “Surrounding yourself with those things that speak to your heart is the route to achieving happiness in your surroundings,” she writes. In Kondo’s method, clothes are followed by books, papers, miscellaneous items (gifts, buttons, discarded light fixtures), and mementos. For each category, the process remains the same: All items in the category must be retrieved, and each item must be held. Thanking items that have served you well eases the hesitancy to let go. Taking photos of items can ensure that they are not forgotten.

DECLUTTER ROOM-BY-ROOM This approach appeals to those who want to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes by checking each completed room off the list. Advocates suggest starting 26

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with your bedroom, then moving to guest bedrooms, and lastly — kids’ rooms. One caveat is that while decluttering children’s rooms, you should respect other family members’ things. You may not be interested in horses, but your daughter may be a budding equestrian who loves her many figurines and models. After bedrooms, the kitchen and dining rooms should be tackled, followed by the home office. In each of these spaces, it is key to remember that every drawer, shelf, and room has a specific purpose; every item has its place; and every surface should be clutter free. This means “unitaskers” and duplicates must go, and all but essential documents (e.g., birth and marriage certificates, deeds, etc.) should be shredded. Organizing the items that remain in each space is crucial. That includes categorizing food in the pantry and creating a logical filing system for key papers. Whatever the approach, the credo of minimalism is that your home should be your sacred space, not a stager’s or decorator’s version of what your home should look like. Only when your home reflects who you are will you feel serene and happy in it.

MINIMALIST QUICK TIPS        

America

HOME OF THE CLUTTERED •

•

Avoid impulse purchases. Keep only those items that enrich your life. Get rid of duplicate items. Do without an item for a month or three months, then decide if it is a keeper.

• •

Practice the one in, one out rule. Digitalize photos, souvenirs, high school awards. Keep only ONE size — the size that currently fits! Believe: Less stuff = more peace and happiness.

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

•

Americans use 20% of their “stuff” 80% of the time. (Francine Jay’s The Joy of Less. a Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life) The home organization industry has exploded into a $12 billion a year behemoth. (ClosetFactoryFranchise.com) Hiring someone to organize a 10X12-foot closet costs an average of $3,500. (RealHomes.com/us/ advice/closet-remodel-costs) The U.S. has approximately 50,000 storage facilities. (Statista.com) 10.6% (13.5 million) of American households rent storage space, fueling a $40 billion/year industry. (SpareFoot.com and GetOneDesk.com) The average American woman wears only 20-30% of the clothes she owns. (SWNSDigital.com) FamilyLife Publications.com

Teacher Feature BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

N A V I L L U S Y N N E J

the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy. She and her husband enjoy volunteering to clean up local trails.

nspired to make a positive difference in the world, Jenny Sullivan pursued a career in teaching and now inspires her students to be world changers, too. In her sixth year as an educator in the Cherokee County School District, Sullivan teaches second grade at Knox ES STEM Academy. She previously taught fifth grade at Mountain Road ES and served as a CCSD digital learning teacher for a year. Last school year, her peers named her Teacher of the Year for Mountain Road ES. Even though she’s a young teacher, Sullivan is viewed by her colleagues as an expert to call upon for support in blending technology into traditional lessons, developing cross-curricular lessons, and identifying real-world applications for core learning. “I try to relate the standards to real life as much as possible,” Sullivan said of her approach for ensuring state standards for knowledge mastery develop into meaningful and lasting lessons for students. “When students find that their learning is relevant to them, they are more likely to have buy-in with the lesson I have planned.” A teacher leader, Sullivan seeks opportunities to support her school and further her own professional knowledge to benefit her students including volunteering on the School Improvement Plan Committee, Data Team Lead Committee, and STEM Leader Committee. She has earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education as well as an educational leadership certification and is pursuing a doctorate degree. Sullivan also has achieved both Microsoft Innovative Educator and Common Sense Digital Citizenship Certified Educator recognition and has been asked to serve on curriculum writing committees and participate in

Canton Family Life

| March 2022

Sullivan felt called to pursue teaching after transferring to Kennesaw State University to live at home and spend more time with her terminally ill father. One of their final conversations focused on her future career goals. “We both knew he would not see them live out, as his cancer had metastasized, so he asked me: ‘What’s your goal in life, baby girl?’ I told him I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, and my father told me I would make the greatest impact as an educator,” she said. “Dad told me that I was a natural teacher in everything I did, and I clearly had enough patience from dealing with all the colorful personalities in our large family. I felt in my gut he was right, so I changed my major from psychology to elementary education. I never looked back.” What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school? “Parents can help their children be successful by being invested in them academically and emotionally,” Sullivan said, and shared the following quote from the late Rita Pierson, a nationally renowned educator: “Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”

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

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Quotables “The greatest wealth is a poverty of desires.” -Seneca the Younger

“Success is going from failure to failure without a loss of enthusiasm.” -Winston Churchill “I never saw my mother walk on water, but I saw her wait for the bus in the snow to pay the rent. We define holy differently.” -Joél Leon

“It really boils down to this: that all life is interrelated. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied into a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one destiny, affects all indirectly.” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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| March 2022

“I can say with great certainty and absolute honesty that I did not know what love was until I knew what love was not.” -P.T. Berkey “The oldest, shortest words — ‘yes’ and ‘no’ — are those which require the most thought.” -Pythagoras

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” -Jim Rohn

“If you avoid conflict to keep the peace, you start a war inside yourself.” -Cheryl Richardson

“Arrogance is the camouflage of insecurity.” -Heather Carter

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The American Dream of Homeownership By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] Most everyone has the American Dream to be a homeowner. My wife and I bought our first home in 1989. It was all we could afford, which wasn’t much. Our second home needed some work, but we lived there for eight years. In 2001, we bought our third and final home (hopefully). I renovated our first two homes, and we sold them for a lot more than what we paid. I did that, so we could buy the house of our dreams without going into a lot of debt. Recently, my daughter and her fiance bought a home that they can fix up, but they had to pay a lot more in today’s market. I was shocked to learn they paid over asking price for such a small, older home. How can young couples who are just starting their lives afford to do this? Teachers, law enforcement officers, veterans, firemen, and other essential workers cannot find homes they can afford because of supply and demand. My parents never had the opportunity to buy their own home. They both passed away in their early 50s, and renting was all they knew. Many seniors in our program rent and are forced out because they can no longer afford even a small apartment. We receive numerous calls at the Senior Center from those who are looking for a place they can afford on their Social Security income. Unfortunately, anything in Cherokee County that is affordable has a five-year waiting list. Staff members must share resources from other counties to try to help them. There have been discussions about trying to find seniors in Cherokee County who have an extra room that they may want to rent to another senior. While this may be a future solution, it will require someone to organize and manage it. 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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Central to Wheeler’s music are his Cherokee County roots.

urt Lee Wheeler’s childhood was filled with music, at his Lathemtown home and Hightower Church, which he says he started attending nine months before he was born.

ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Kurt Lee Wheeler

“There was always a lot of singing, a lot of dancing, and a lot of love,” Wheeler said. “We’d tear up the linoleum on the kitchen floor from clogging then tear up the new floor that followed.” Wheeler, who taught himself to play guitar when he was a teen, says he’s probably been making up music all his life. Now, decades later, the singer/songwriter and Creekland MS history teacher entertains audiences through both his live performances and his LP’s, the most recent of which, On Our Way, was released in fall 2021.

Singing Life’s Stories

Without any formal training in music theory, Wheeler soaks up styles that he likes, blending them into a mix of country, alt-country, bluegrass, rock, and jam band — whatever fits the story his words are telling. “I want the music to reflect the lyrics, mirror what’s going on in my soul,” he explained.

Though many of his songs are autobiographical, he said, “I never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” All ring true in singing about life’s joys as well as its sorrows.

Just a Fan Photography

“Til Death Is the End,” an ode to his parents who have been married 62 years, grew from Wheeler’s memory of being a ring bearer as a boy. The song touches listeners with its message of lasting love and the pain of the inevitable end to that love. Other cuts, such as “17 Forever” and “Somehow It Ended,” also capture the poignancy of lost youth and lost love.

“They inform everything about my music,” Wheeler said. “From the church gospel vibe, to farmin’ dirt and gettin’ close to the earth, and we’ve got some rockin’ people in this county. What comes out of me reflects me.” Wheeler’s songs emanate from deep within his soul. “Wherever I am, they just come to me. Sometimes I dream them. I hear them then go into the closet and hum them,” he said. For “83, 53, 23,” a song about his grandfather, father, and himself, Wheeler said, “I was just driving down the road. I pulled off and hummed the song into the phone. If you look at my phone, you’ll see hundreds of ideas, lyrics, and tunes.” When singing about lost love, Christmas memories, or the pain of divorce or cancer – whether a cappella or with a rousing fiddle, piano, bass, or drums joining in to inspire listeners to get up and dance – Wheeler hopes he takes his audience back to moments in their lives. “Most stories,” he said, “are most people’s stories but at a different address.” In singing those stories, Wheeler feels he is serving people. “It’s a great opportunity to serve. I feel like I’m pouring my soul into them. I want to give people hope, to plant hope, to let people know they’re not alone,” Wheeler said. “I hope I can take them to a place where they can remember, revive, restore, and find a respite for their souls,” He is most gratified when after a performance, someone comes to him and says, “Hey, you were singing my childhood.” Fans can catch Wheeler at the Canton Theatre on March 26 or at one of his other appearances throughout the county.

Visit KurtLeeWheelerMusic.com for more information. 32

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| March 2022

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The Need of the Day By Rev. Norman R. Hunt

[InGoodFaith] We are living in tremendous days, days of challenge and days of opportunity. There are various problems facing our nation and its leaders. There are also problems facing our churches. Though our needs are many, it is my personal conviction that our greatest need is for an old-fashioned revival of faith. Investors are claiming that our greatest need is financial security. Insurance companies are insisting our greatest need is adequate retirement benefits and protection. Social workers are stressing that it is feeding and clothing the hungry and poor. Educators tell us our greatest need is for more learning. Ask 50 people, and you will receive 50 different answers. However, I am convinced that our greatest need is for the kind of revival that results in repentance, restitution, reunion, transformed lifestyles, and love. Our nation, churches, homes, and hearts need revival more than anything. II Chronicles 7:14 is God’s word for revival — it conveys the way in which revival is granted. This verse has provided meaning in many sermons, and it has been underscored in many bibles. It is a prayer that people have prayed numerous times through the years; a word that has spoken to many hearts. I pray that God will use it to speak to our hearts today: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” L

Rev. Norman R. Hunt is the pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-213-1690. HopewellBaptist.com

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Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations

North Georgia Angel House, Inc.

Paula’s Zzerts

Treasure Tax

Ursula & Associates Real Estate

Star Light Learning Academy at Canton

Dog House Boxing & Fitness, LLC

2260 Sam Nelson Road Canton 770-479-9555 Nonprofit Organization

225 River Park North Drive 678-888-4829 Woodstock Tax Professionals

6613 Hickory Flat Highway Canton 770-224-6161 Child Care Center

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140 Keith Drive Canton 404-382-8543 Catering

1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 680 Woodstock 678-569-4044 Real Estate

9525 Main Street, Suite 110 Woodstock 404-245-3995 Health and Fitness

STRONGSIDE Canton 225 Reformation Parkway Canton 678-735-0563 Health and Fitness

SuiteSciens, Inc.

103 Mountain Brook Drive, Unit 104 Holly Springs 914-310-5889 NetSuite Solutions

Canton Optimist Club

Little Free Library Project @G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA 151 Waleska Street Canton Nonprofit Organization

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Get Ready for the Gala! By Lisa-Marie Haygood

[AcademicLife] The Annual Celebration of Education Gala is put on by the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) and will take place this year at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center on March 12, at 6:00pm. This year’s presenting sponsor, Manley, Spangler, and Smith Architects, is the design firm charged with constructing the new Cherokee County High School Building that will be housed on Bluffs Parkway. This black-tie optional event will include a delicious dinner, cocktails, live music, and a stand-up comedian. There will also be a silent auction and raffle with all proceeds benefiting the students and teachers at Cherokee County School District. CCEF awards grants at the district level as well as to individual classrooms. Rapid Grants of up to $500 are distributed to teachers in need of quick funding and have been used to sponsor author visits, virtual field trips, scientific experiments, and other

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educational opportunities. Classroom Impact Grants for up to $2,500 per classroom are also awarded to several dozen recipients annually. The grants have been used to buy things like ukuleles for music classrooms, digital microscopes and telescopes, and robotic instrumentation. How can you help local students and teachers? The Foundation would be delighted to have any silent auction items you wish to donate and welcomes you to join us for this special event. For more information, please visit CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org.

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

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Advertiser Index BridgeMill Dentistry

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Christian Brothers Automotive — Cherokee

Darby Funeral Home, Inc.

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Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University

The Goddard School

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Happy Eyes Optometry

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HFVA.org

Jyl Craven Hair Design

Killian Automotive

Landscape Matters, Inc.

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LGE Community Credit Union

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Mathnasium of Holly Springs

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St. George Village

Service League of Cherokee County Gala and Benefit for Children

Southern Air Pros

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Wing & Rock Fest

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