Canton Family Life 5-22 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

May 2022

VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 10

20-21

[20-21]

On the Cover

Jyl Craven Hair Design

30-31 Mother Knows Best Wise Words

32 Teacher Feature

[32]

Jon Gustin

36 Artist Profile

Brenda Pinnick

[30-31]

[36] Follow Us >>>

Canton Family Life

Family Life Publications

| May 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Publisher’sPerspective

PUBLISHER/SALES Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

Mother’s Love

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cyndi Braun

ell, the “seasons of April” have passed us now. What a strange weather month that was. Now, it is time for sweet May to unfold the colorful gardens and bounty of spring. This month, we are reminded of the beauty of nature, fresh life and growth, and the importance of nurturing and caring for the young. It’s obvious to me why we celebrate our mothers and their importance in our lives during this month.

“Youth fades; love droops; the leaves of friendship fall; a mother’s secret hope outlives them all.” ~Oliver Wendell Holmes Much like a gardener with a young seedling in the early spring, a mother watches over her child’s physical well-being at the earliest and most delicate times in the youngster’s life. She continues to help cultivate her child’s character and morals through her care and teachings of love and respect, truth and forgiveness. Sometimes, as I remember, my mother did these things without saying a single word. With just a look — yes, “that” look — I understood better what I should have already known, or else I soon would be learning a good lesson. There is no love beneath the heavens that compares to the unconditional love and forgiveness in the heart of every wonderful mother. I know this to be true. I learned this through the actions, words, and sacrifices of my first and forever favorite teacher, my mom. My mother is no longer with us, yet I still hear and pay attention to her calming voice and the gentle authenticity of her words. A mother’s hug lasts long after she has let go.

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, Will Carlan, L. Michael Cox, Joshua Fuder, Lisa M. Grisham, Barbara P. Jacoby, Karen Jordan, Michelle Mathieson, Tim Morris, John Rodgers, Ellen Samsell Salas, Anna Teal, Bruce Thompson, Emma Tyler

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

770-213-7095 Also available online at

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

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

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.

M AG A ZI

If you have the opportunity to make your mother smile today, do so. If your mother isn’t here to enjoy and admire, select one of your favorite moms and bring a smile to her face in your mother’s honor. Happy Mother’s Day month to all mothers, here and afar. God bless you and yours.

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Proverbs 6:22 references a mother’s teachings, “When you walk about, they will guide you; When you sleep, they will watch over you; And when you awake, they will talk to you.”

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Calendar MAY

7&8

31st Annual Cherokee County Indian Festival — This north Georgia tradition features activities for all audiences, including a Native American dance competition, hoop dancer and Aztec dancers, tipis, a living Indian village, creek encampment, primitive skills, environmental and wildlife displays, Native American artisans, Save the Horses rescue group, children’s activities including train rides, and a Mother’s Day Honor Dance. Admission is $5-$15. Saturday 10:00am‑7:00pm and Sunday 11:00am‑6:00pm, Boling Park, 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton. CantonGa.gov

Violet — Reinhardt University Musical Theater presents this musical, which is based on the short story “The Ugliest Pilgrim,” by Doris Betts. Tickets are $12.50. Friday/Saturday 7:30pm and Sunday 3:00pm, University Theater (Black Box), 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Faith County — In the middle of nowhere in the south, there’s a place where the beehive hairdo is still the rage, and Saturday nights are reserved for the tractor pull in nearby Pickler. Presented by Cherokee Theatre Company. Tickets are $15-18. Visit the website for specific times, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CherokeeTheatre.org

Downtown Canton First Friday With Chicago Rewired, the Premier Chicago Tribute Band — Enjoy live music, a Kids Zone featuring an inflatable slide and balloon artist, Moving Target ATL axe throwing (participants must wear close-toed shoes), late night shopping, restaurants, food and beverage vendors, and a Cruise In. 6:009:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov, Facebook. com/CantonGAFirstFriday

DSB, Americas Favorite Tribute to Journey — Come out to hear great renditions of your favorite songs by popular 80s rock band, Journey, as performed by DSB. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Kentucky Derby Day — Enjoy History Cherokee’s signature fundraising event, supporting historic preservation and education programs of the Cherokee County Historical Society. Gather to watch the race, sip mint juleps, and dine on gourmet food. Ladies are encouraged to wear their finest chapeaux to qualify for entry in the hat parade and contest. vent also includes a silent auction and pony pull. Tickets are $75. 4:30-7:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

8 Mother’s Day ONGOING

May Is National Military Appreciation Month Take time this month to thank service members and their families for all their hard work and sacrifices. Other ways to celebrate include reading about America’s military history or donating to charities that support veterans. And if you’ve ever considered a career in the military, this month is a perfect time to learn all about opportunities available within all the armed forces. 6

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Unwind Wednesdays — No need to cook dinner on the first Wednesday of each month through October! Enjoy a variety of food trucks, craft vendors, live music, and amazing playground equipment. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E, Canton. PlayCherokee.org Tuesday Market @ The Mill Each Tuesday, head to the Mill for some fabulous open-air shopping. 5:30-8:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com Add

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8, 13, 15, 25, 27, 28, & 29

6th Annual Plant Sale and Festival The Ball Ground Garden Club (Anetsa-Ga-Da) hosts this event, which includes a large variety of plants for purchase as well as gardening advice and presentations from area experts. 10:00am-4:00pm, Ball Ground Botanical Garden, 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground. BallGroundGardenClub.com

Braves Game on The Big Screen — Enjoy the Atlanta Braves game live on the big screen. Chairs are available for use or bring your own chairs and blankets. No outside food, drinks, smoking, or vaping are permitted on the green. Please check the website for specific game times, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com/events

MIXTAPE Presents the Soundtrack of the 80s Put on your Ray-Bans and step inside a time machine to enjoy the full-on concert experience mirroring artists such as Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Michael Jackson, Pat Benatar, Prince, The Bangles, Billy Idol, and Blondie! Tickets $28$38. 7:00-9:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. MixTapeAtl.com/shows

Reveille for Hope Breakfast Hosted by The Highland Rivers Foundation and sponsored by Northside Hospital, this event raises funds for the Green Zone Veterans Community Center (facility costs $1.4 million), which will be an exclusive veterans resource center in Cherokee County. There is no cost to attend the breakfast, but donations are strongly encouraged. 7:30-9:00am, Venue 92, 12015 Highway 92, Woodstock. 706-590-9238.

Bluegrass Festival — Spend the day listening to live bluegrass music performed by multiple acts throughout the event. Please visit the website for additional details. 12:00-9:30pm, Reinhardt University (Hasty Lawn), 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

Music at Menagerie — Enjoy an evening under the lights while local musicians share songs and stories. BYOB. FREE! 7:00-9:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.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, The Retreat at Canton, 3333 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

Menagerie on Main Sip and See Stop by this after-hours event to see the unveiling of new inventory by talented local artists. FREE! 6:00-8:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

Friday and Saturday Night Live Music Series — After visiting the shops and restaurants at the Mill, enjoy live music on the event green each Friday and Saturday night. FREE! Visit the website for a list of musicians/bands and event times. The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com Canton Business Club Meeting — Each Wednesday morning, network with a group of professionals who are dedicated to serving their community and their clients, while providing value to local business owners. 8:00am, Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton. Facebook.com (search for “Canton Business Club”) Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

River Rock Concert Series Featuring the Atlanta Rhythm Section — Bring the whole family to enjoy this free concert, as well as food trucks and kids’ activities. Don’t forget lawn chairs and coolers (no glass please!). 6:00-10:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov/events

Georgia National Cemetery Memorial Day Program Honor fallen veterans at this respectful, somber program, which includes flag placement, military music performances, and a presentation. Parking fills ups fast, so plan to arrive early or be prepared to walk a long distance. 8:00am-12:00pm, Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Veterans Cemetery Road, Canton. ATBSA. org/national-cemeteryprograms.html [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 Trivia Night — 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 FamilyLife Publications.com

Calendar

LIBRARY EVENTS

continued from page 7

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 T-SHIRT TOTE BAGS May 7, 4:00pm, Hickory Flat Upcycle old T-shirts into brand new tote bags! No sewing required. Attendees must bring their own shirts to use. This event is open to ages 16+. MOTHER GOOSE CRAFTING HOUR May 12, 4:30pm, Hickory Flat Celebrate Mother Goose Day by creating fun crafts based on classic Mother Goose stories and rhymes. Supplies will be provided, and all ages are welcome.

Charity Cornhole Tournament Experiences Foundation and ACES Youth Home are presenting this family friendly fundraiser for $50 per team or $25 per individual. The top three winners receive prizes. There will also be an auction and raffles. 12:00-4:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com/events

JUNE

6/1-7/27

Screen on The Green Each Wednesday during June and July, enjoy a free, family friendly movie on the Green! Check the website for specific movie titles. 6:00-8:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com/events

FRIDAY THE 13TH MINI GOLF May 13, 3:00pm, R.T. Jones Navigate a mini golf course with black cats, open umbrellas, spilled salt, and more. How will your luck fair on the unluckiest day of the year? BUBBLE BLOWOUT May 19, 11:00am, Ball Ground Try your hand at blowing both giant and small bubbles. Be sure to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting soapy. PATRON ART GALLERY May 20, 3:00pm, R.T. Jones Celebrate our talented community artists by viewing their work on display in the library. If you are interested in displaying a piece of art, contact the library at 770-479-3090. HELLO, BUGS! May 31, 4:00pm, Ball Ground Study bug and fossil specimens under a digital microscope, enjoy themed activities, and learn fun facts about our insect and arthropod friends. 8

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6/4-10/15

Canton Farmers Market — Each Saturday morning, this farmers market fosters stewardship of our land and goodwill in our community by providing a place for vendors to sell their products. Supporting the Market increases access to fresh, local food and supports healthy communities. 9:00am12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov/events

4&5 3

Downtown Canton First Friday With Shot Through the Heart Bon Jovi Tribute — Enjoy live music, a Kids Zone featuring an inflatable slide and balloon artist, Moving Target ATL axe throwing (participants must wear close-toed shoes), late night shopping, restaurants, food and beverage vendors, and a Cruise In. 6:009:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov, Facebook.com/CantonGAFirstFriday

Upriver Festival — Please visit the website for event details and start time. The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com/events

The Cherokee Chorale presents a “Salute to America” The public is invited to join our veterans, families, and friends for this program of patriotic music. Adults $15 (veteran tickets are discounted) and students $5. 4:00pm, River Ridge HS, 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-314-5507. CherokeeChorale.org

6-7/15

Cherokee Summer Internship Program Hosted by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, this competitive, six-week, mentorship-based program is open to all rising high school juniors and seniors who are interested in taking their skills to the next level. Graduating seniors are also invited to apply for these paid summer internships. Applications are due by 6/3/22. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org/internship Add

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Senator Speaks

God Is My Guide By State Senator Bruce Thompson

few years ago, when my family attended First Baptist in Cartersville, a sweet family in the church sent out an urgent message to pray for their teenage son who was involved in a serious car accident. Garrett Geros was headed home from his friend’s house when he dozed off and crashed his truck into a tree. The accident didn’t take his life, but it left him with a broken leg, and his other leg required amputation. Garrett, who played football for the Cartersville HS Hurricanes, was determined to stand beside his teammates the following year. It would have been understandable for him to become depressed upon realizing his dreams of again playing football or other competitive sports was unlikely, but this

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young man did the exact opposite.

After resetting his expectations, Garrett stood beside his teammates on the football field the following year while preparing for the next chapter in his life. At 18, he decided to take up snowboarding. Today, four years later, he has a silver medal from the Beijing Paralympic Winter Games. It is quite an accomplishment to be a medalist after only four years in a sport, but in addition to learning to adapt after losing his leg, Garrett also suffers from Tourette’s syndrome. The Bible is full of heroes who accomplished great things while suffering from physical setbacks: •

Moses received the Ten Commandments, led the Israelites out of Egypt, and was considered the most important prophet

•

in Judaism — even though he suffered from a severe stutter. Samson was considered the strongest man in the Bible, yet he was born with a limp and was blind by the time he died. Ehud was an Israelite hero who was born with a shriveled right hand, but he was able to kill Moabite King Eglon with a sword. He then organized an Ephraim tribe that killed roughly 10,000 Moabite soldiers, restoring peace to the land.

“Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go,” (Joshua 1:9).

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

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Community Canton’s City Planner Selected for 2022 GeorgiaForward Young Gamechangers Cohort

Cherokee County Firefighters Recognized for Two Awards

GeorgiaForward recently selected Canton City Planner Brittany Anderson as one of the 50 evolving professionals to serve the organization’s 2022 Young Gamechangers (YG) program. YG is a unique leadership action program hosted by GeorgiaForward, a nonprofit organization administrated by the Georgia Municipal Association. Young Gamechangers brings professionals from across the state to work on the persistent challenges of one Georgia community. Anderson is an urban planning professional who began consulting with The Collaborative at the City of Sandy Springs first as a planning technician then planner and with Jacobs Engineering Group at the City of Chamblee as a senior planner before joining the City of Canton. Last month, Dalton-Whitfield County hosted the YG. Dalton leaders came up with four challenge questions that the 2022 cohort were charged with answering during the six months they will spend developing specific, actionable recommendations for the community. These questions primarily pertained to redevelopment, education, and community engagement. The cohorts’ work will culminate with a community presentation of their findings and recommendations in late September. To learn more about GeorgiaForward visit, GeorgiaForward.org. For more information about the Georgia Municipal Association, visit GaCities.com.

Business Is Blooming Art Contest Winner Jack Shampine, owner of J. Lyndon Financial, painted the winning entry for the Business Is Blooming art contest, which was sponsored by Menagerie on Main. The contest was open to all downtown Canton businesses. Shampine’s abstract painting, entitled Univeter, was the first he has ever attempted. He says the piece represents the spring colors he and his daughter experience on their daily drive to her school. As the winner of the contest, Shampine chose to donate the $450 proceeds to The Theodora Dance Conservatory to help students who receive full merit, need-based scholarships. 12

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Kim Littleton, GEMSA executive director (left) and Chad Black, GEMSA chairman (right) present the Mary Beth Bowns Excellence in Trauma Care Award to (L-R) Chris Roberts, William Armstrong, Samuel Lackender, Ethan Sanders, Denver Ice, and EMS Chief Nate Sullivan with Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (not pictured – Deombre Jones, Jamie McCord, Tyler Russell, Nicholas Spain, and Ross Young).

The Georgia Emergency Medical Services Association (GEMSA) recently announced its 2021 finalists and winners, and 13 Cherokee County firefighters were recognized for two statewide awards. The Tim Peebles Champion of Children Excellence and Advocacy Award was presented to Christopher Ginn, Jacob Gunter, and Manny Zapeta with Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. These firefighters compiled a detailed plan to deliver CPR training to teachers within the school district. The plan included estimated costs, material, time investment, and material needs in order to receive authorization to initiate a CPR/AED/First Aid training blitz to target elementary school staff. With the support of the department and the school district, Ginn, Gunter, and Zapeta were able to move forward with the initiative and have since led a CPR advocacy campaign, training hundreds of teachers and other staff. The Mary Beth Bowns Excellence in Trauma Care Award was presented to Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services including William Armstrong, Denver Ice, Deombre Jones, Samuel Lackender, Jamie McCord, Chris Roberts, Tyler Russell, Ethan Sanders, Nicholas Spain, and Ross Young for their prompt response, assessment, extrication, and treatment of a patient at the scene of an accident, which significantly and positively impacted the patient’s outcome. Add

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Community Cherokee County School District Announcements 



CCSD Schools Earn Top AP Honors For the 12th consecutive year, CCSD high schools have earned top honors for outstanding Advanced Placement (AP) programs and performance. All CCSD high schools have been named Georgia 2022 AP Honor Schools for exceptional student performance and participation on AP exams, which offer students more challenging coursework and the opportunity to earn college credit.

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Sequoyah HS Student Selected for Prestigious Art Exhibit A graphite pencil drawing by junior Paige Wolosiewicz was featured in the Atlanta High School Art Exhibition at Piedmont Park during last month’s Atlanta Dogwood Festival. More than 700 students from metro Atlanta high schools submitted work for consideration. Only the top 194 pieces were selected by a jury of professional artists to be included in the exhibit.

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Freedom MS Team Wins Statewide Academic Bowl For the second consecutive year, the Freedom MS team earned first place at the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site History Bowl. The competition for middle and high school students focuses on U.S. history including presidential history, world history, geography, and economics. The team competed against 13 middle schools from across the state and went undefeated in all five rounds.

Indian Knoll ES Teacher Honored With Statewide Award State Superintendent of Schools Richard Woods recently visited 5th grade teacher Chelsea Leming to congratulate her on being named one of Georgia’s 10 Teacher of the Year finalists. “There are 110,000 teachers in Georgia — and she’s in the top .009%!” Woods explained to the class. Leming began her education career in 2009 as an 8th grade teacher at E.T. Booth MS before coming to Indian Knoll ES where she now teaches 5th grade English language arts and social studies.

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Team members are Jacob Duncan, Sophia Facchini, Rachel Haynes, Andrew Lawrence, Grayson McClelland, Landon Powell, Aidan Searcy, Jackson Standish, Alex Watkins, and Sofia Yadav. The team is coached by teachers Anna Trull, Brooke Knight, and Allison Cook.

Cherokee HS Students Advance to National Career Skills Competition Cherokee HS students placed in welding and healthcare science events at the Georgia Skills USA competition. The Cherokee HS welding fabrication team is made up of Carter Goodrow, Brayden Iovino, Cole Jackson and Michael Pugachow and coached by welding teacher Darryl Jones. The team earned first place at state in its contest and qualified for the national Skills USA competition to be held this summer. Also, welding students Marco Portillo and Stella Starziak earned second place in the metals display competition for a handmade table. Additionally, the school’s healthcare science program earned state honors at the Georgia Skills USA competition. Aerianna Avrit earned first place in the nursing assistant contest, and Haley Kelley won first place in basic healthcare. They are coached by healthcare science teacher Dianne Argonis-Basto.

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Community Cherokee By Choice 2.0: A Launchpad for Big, Bold Action Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) recently announced the launch of Cherokee By Choice (CBC) 2.0 – a strategic plan that guides Cherokee’s economic development efforts forward over the next five years. CBC 2.0 was developed in partnership with Boyette Strategic Advisors, an economic development and public policy consulting firm. It was based on hours of engagement with Cherokee leadership and nearly 3,500 online survey participants, including extensive data collection obtained through a series of discovery sessions, one-on-one interviews, and research. As a result, six high growth target sectors were identified: • • • • • •

Advanced manufacturing with a focus on green and sustainable products and medical devices Headquarters, recruitment of both corporate and regional Technology, including cybersecurity and data centers Film and digital entertainment, including film production studios and video game programming/ development Entrepreneurs/startups that specialize in technology and creative services Commercial developers that target Class A office space, mixed-use, and a hotel/conference center

The plan also features four strategic goal areas: • Ensure that Cherokee has attractive and connected places, including the development of marketable sites and buildings, while enhancing livability assets. • Build an educated and talented workforce to meet the needs of new and existing businesses. • Cultivate innovating and enterprising business, which will result in a more diversified business culture that supports new and legacy manufacturers, corporate and regional headquarters, and technology companies. • Retain a vibrant and inviting brand identity both internally and externally.

(L-R) Tracy King Sharp (Boyette COO), COED VP Heath Tippens, Del Boyette (Boyette president and CEO), Cherokee By Choice Chairman Mark Goddard, Boyette research associate Riley McCorstin, and COED President Misti Martin.

(L-R) : Justina Brown, Amanda Sutter, Kristyne Davis, Heath Tippens, Misti Martin, Molly Mercer, Shawna Mercer, and Laura Lawson.

Identifying product for future industrial, office, and commercial development is crucial to the success of CBC 2.0, which will help diversify the tax base and drive down Cherokee’s out-commute. Even though the percentage has declined by 3% since the first strategic plan, 77% of Cherokee’s highly educated workforce still commute out of the county daily. As part of the strategy’s next phase, COED will focus its efforts on keeping talent local through projects such as the Canton Corporate Park – a development that is expected to become another premier destination for companies looking to relocate. The park’s master plan includes two large pad sites with the ability to accommodate more than 150,000 square feet, as well as flex space sites fronting Highway 20. To learn more or read a summary of the CBC 2.0 strategic plan, visit CherokeeGa.org.

A New Park for Hickory Flat The Cherokee Board of Commissioners recently voted to purchase 40.7 acres on East Cherokee Drive in Hickory Flat for $3.2 million. Recreation and Parks Director Jay Worley told commissioners in April that the park’s planning process could start as early as this summer. The planning process, which includes hiring a consultant with expertise in master planning, engineering, and landscape architecture, will be similar to the steps followed in the development of the Southwest Cherokee Parks and Trails Plan and the Northeast Cherokee Parks Master Plan. The Recreation and Parks team, along with the consultant, will engage the public for wish lists and input. Once planning is completed and funding sources have been identified, construction can begin. County officials estimate that construction could start in about two years.

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Community

State Awards Cherokee $3.9 Million for Road Project Cherokee County will receive $3.9 million from the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) for Technology Ridge Parkway Phase I, known historically as the Heard Road Extension. The project is in partnership with the City of Canton, the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, and Cherokee County. The total award amount is a $2.9 million loan with a five-year repayment schedule and a $1 million grant. Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds will be used to repay the note. This is phase one of a five-phase project that will ultimately connect Bluffs Parkway to the Cherokee County Regional Airport. The project is expected to spur corporate and industry development and bring more jobs to Cherokee County. The new thoroughfare will provide easier access from the airport to the area businesses.

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(L-R) Chris Tomlinson, State Road and Tollway Authority executive director; Brantley Day, Community Development Agency director; Chairman Harry Johnston; Gov. Brian Kemp; District 3 Commissioner Benny Carter; County Manager Geoff Morton; and SRTA Board Member Allen Yee.

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Encourage Your Child To Think Outside-the-Box By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[AcademicLife] A fantastic way to get your little one to think outside the box is with cooking. For example, you can make many different croissant dishes with a simple roll of the dough. Unfold each section from the packaged roll and form it into an individual triangle. Once it is separated and opened, ask your child what to add to the middle. There are a ton of possibilities! Here are three examples:

Q. A.

What has three hands but cannot clap? A clock.

How many months of the year have 28 days? 12 — Every month has at least 28 days.

 Add a piece of ham and a piece of

 

cheese, roll the dough closed, and bake for a delicious ham and cheese sandwich. Add pepperoni and cheese and serve with a marinara sauce dip to create a mini-croissant pizza. Add shredded chicken and bacon and serve with ranch dressing.

Q. A.

It belongs to you, but your friends use it more. What is it? Your name. I go all around the world but never leave the corner. What am I? A stamp.

How do you encourage outside-the-box thinking? Be sure to share your ideas with other parents!

Another way to encourage your child to think outside the box is with riddles: Q.

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A man went on a trip riding his horse. He left on Friday, stayed in town for three days, and came back on Friday. How did he do it? His horse’s name is Friday.

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

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CantonNotes

MORE MYTHS ABOUT

School Zone Cameras By Will Carlan

ast month’s “Canton Notes” column covered three myths about school zone cameras. To continue to confront misinformation about these traffic-control devices, here are three more myths circulating about the school zone speed cameras.

showing up to court. But the State Legislature decided to charge any unpaid fines from this program against your license when it comes up for renewal. Like a lien, you won’t be allowed to renew your license if you have an outstanding balance.

Myth No. 1: The police are not involved.

Fact: The system knows when the lights are not flashing.

The statute requires a police officer to review each citation to ensure that it occurred at a time when the cameras were active or school was in session. For example, if the lights were flashing in front of a school during spring break and a speeding car received a ticket during that time for a speed that would otherwise be legal, that citation would be screened out by the police department.

Myth No. 2: Speed cameras are not effective at reducing speeding in the area. As a part of their review of all the data collected by the cameras, the police department recently reported that the number of speeding cars dropped significantly after the cameras began operation. In fact, most citations come from first-time offenders, and very few citations are issued to the same vehicle more than once. By every measure, these cameras are slowing people down.

Myth No. 3: Nothing happens if you don’t pay the fine. For the first violation, the speeder is fined $75. Every subsequent violation carries a $125 fine. There is also a $5 processing fee added to each fine. Since this is not a criminal proceeding, you cannot have your license revoked or a bench warrant issued for your arrest for not 18

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

One of the most popular complaints on social media from people who receive a speeding ticket is, “The lights weren’t flashing.” Keep in mind that the flashing lights only indicate that the speed has dropped during that time – you can still receive a citation when the lights are not flashing if you are 11 mph over the regular posted speed limit. The lights have an internal monitor that double-checks to ensure that they are flashing when they are supposed to be flashing. If there is a malfunction when they are supposed to be flashing but they are not, the system alerts the officers reviewing the information to the issue. In that case, a driver would only receive a citation if he/she was speeding over the posted speed limit. These speed cameras are a useful tool to address speeding near our schools. Not only do they make for safer enforcement, but they also free up our police officers to focus on other traffic issues and public safety duties. This efficiency results in safer roads and more effective public safety operations.

Will Carlan is a city councilman for Ward 2. 110 Academy Street, Canton. Will.Carlan@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov

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

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JYL CRAVEN HAIR DESIGN

A Modern Salon Experience By Anna Teal

COVER STORY

etting a new hairstyle is a simple thing, yet it can be so empowering. A visit to the salon can do wonders to boost confidence and lift one’s spirits. Guests of Jyl Craven Hair Design experience all that and more. From the lofty, chic, modern environment to the friendly, personal atmosphere, Jyl Craven has been a trusted source for all things hair — cut, color, and restoration — for more than 20 years.

“Our ultimate goal is to make our guests feel like the best version of themselves when leaving our care,” says owner Jason Craven.

BEAUTIFUL BALAYAGE As summer quickly approaches, the desire for sun-kissed, lightened hair arises. Balayage is the best method for all who seek to lighten their locks in the most natural looking way possible. It’s applied to the hair in a sweeping, painted fashion. This hair lightening process is achieved in such a way that makes it easy for those who want to brighten their look. So, is balayage or traditional foils for lightening hair better? “It depends on the guest’s goals and maintenance needs,” explains owner Jyl Craven. Foils provide a more uniform, symmetrical highlight compared to balayage’s softer effect. As far as maintenance goes, since balayage has such an organic look, the need to refresh highlights is less frequent than with foil lightening techniques. 20

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

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TREATING HAIR LOSS Millions of women in the U.S. experience hair loss. “While hair loss can be tough for men, it’s even more devastating for women. There’s a certain level of societal acceptance for men in going bald, while the same cannot be said for women,” explains Jyl. This simple fact is what drove Jyl Craven Hair Design to start carrying a vast array of hair loss treatments beginning in 2012. Evolve Volumizer is a popular hair loss solution for women that addresses the issue of thinning hair on the top or crown of the head. Common causes are an imbalance of hormones, medications, thyroid problems, menopause, stress, and genetic conditions. The Evolve Volumizer is an integrated hairpiece designed to promote voluminous hair and texture without the use of harsh chemicals. Each piece is made from 100% human hair, so it looks very natural. This solution is perfect for women who have lost no more than 50% of their natural hair. An alternative to Evolve Volumizer is Jon Renau, which offers hair systems for every stage of hair loss, from beginning to mild to advanced. The systems use 100% human hair for the highest quality results. Once the system is in place, it can be styled and treated like normal hair. And for those experiencing hair thinning, Jyl Craven offers Bellami hair extensions made of only the finest, cuticle intact, double-drawn, 100% Remy human hair. “Hair extensions from Bellami are one of the most popular services our salon offers. These hair extensions can be washed, blow dried, flat ironed, or curled using hot tools — just like your own hair,” says Jyl.

The topic of hair loss can be a sensitive one, which is why Jyl Craven Hair Design offers private, intimate hair loss consultations. The team of certified stylists are trained to determine the best hair loss solution that fits their guest’s lifestyle and maintenance needs. To schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how you can instantly get the hair you deserve, call the salon today.

HAIR DESIGNER APPRENTICESHIP CAREER PROGRAM Another aspect that sets Jyl Craven apart is the hair designer apprenticeship program, which provides an alternative to a traditional cosmetology school. Both paths provide the same licensing options, but the experience can be quite different. Jyl Craven’s apprenticeship program provides a complete coursework as required by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology Hair Designer Apprenticeship transcript, along with progressive haircutting and hair coloring techniques. Apprentices also train alongside top producing hairstylists in the salon each week, learning real-world salon etiquette and practices. “Our apprentices are set up for success. Upon completing their training and passing their state board of cosmetology exams, their transition to the salon floor as a stylist is a natural one. Our culture of ongoing training and development to foster growth has continued to make our program a success,” explains Jason. For more information about the Jyl Craven Hair Designer Apprenticeship Program, please visit JylCraven.com and click on the “careers” tab.

Regardless of one’s hair dreams or aspirations, Jyl Craven Hair Design invites all to enjoy a beautiful salon experience.

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

7970 Knox Bridge Highway Canton, GA 30114

770-345-9411 • JylCraven.com Info@jylcraven.com @jylcravenhair

FamilyLife Publications.com

BallGroundNotes

Ball Ground’s Upcoming Warm Weather Events By Karen Jordan

pringtime is an especially happy time for those who love to play in the dirt, and if there is anyone who loves to play in the dirt, it’s the members of the Ball Ground Garden Club (Anetsa-Ga-Da). Members have been busy getting ready for the 6th Annual Plant Sale and Festival on May 21, which will be held at the Ball Ground Botanical Garden, 215 Valley Street, from 10:00am-4:00pm. According to Club President Salley Eubanks, attendees can choose from a large variety of plants and hear gardening advice and presentations from area experts. Here are some of the presentations that will be held throughout the day. • 11:00am, Ashley Frasca – WSB host of Green and Growing • 12:00pm, Chef Hans Rueffert – Endless Bromeliads • 1:00pm, Susanne Franklin – Daylilies/Jungle Paradise Daylilies • 2:00pm, Mike Lloyd – Introduction to Honeybees More than 30 vendors are signed up to bring their goodies. While listening to great music, visitors can enjoy food and beverages from local breweries, vineyards, and restaurants. Proceeds from this event will benefit beautification projects of the Ball Ground Garden Club. For more information, please visit BallGroundGardenClub.com. Another upcoming event you don’t want to miss is the City of Ball Ground Annual Fireworks Display. This year’s event will be on Saturday, June 25, at 9:45pm. Before the fireworks, the Fly Betty Band will perform a free concert in City Park from 7:30-9:30pm. The Fly Betty Band plays all the best party music from the 70s to current hits. Be sure to come hungry! You will find some delicious food, sweet treats, and coffee in Ball Ground, which has a walkable downtown with great shopping. Shopping locally is one of the best things anyone can do because each downtown business is owned by people who live in Ball Ground and have a personal stake in its future. This is one of the largest and best fireworks display in north Georgia, and it gets bigger and better each year. Don’t worry about parking — there are plenty spaces and places from which to watch. For more information, please visit CityOfBallGround.com or check out the city’s Facebook page for a map that identifies parking locations and other event information. Once you have visited Ball Ground, you’ll know why it is the place to be!

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

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

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REGULAR DENTAL CHECKUPS Your First Line of Defense Against Oral Cancer By L. Michael Cox, DMD

[HealthyLife] Achieving and maintaining healthy teeth has wonderful life-changing benefits. Comprehensive dental exams can help you avoid serious oral health concerns. One of the most important and easiest ways to prevent oral cancer is to maintain frequent dental checkups. Did you know that an oral cancer screening is part of a routine dental hygiene appointment? Not only do regular dental visits contribute to a lifetime of good oral health, but they can also be your first line of defense against oral cancer. Dentists play a huge role in the early detection of oral cancer by using a combination of techniques and tools to screen for it including visual, hands-on, and advanced technology. During a checkup, your dentist will screen your entire mouth for potential signs of oral cancer: your tongue, cheeks, the floor of your mouth, tonsils and palate, as well as feel all the major glands in your neck to check there are no lumps or swelling. A screening takes just a few minutes, but it could save your life. Early-stage oral cancer is often painless and goes undetected, which is why early detection is important. While brushing your teeth, keep an eye out for any changes in your mouth. Common Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer • • • • • •

Unusual lumps on the lip, in the mouth, or throat Red or white patches inside or outside your mouth or lips Lip and mouth sores that are not healing Pain or difficulty with chewing or swallowing Loosening of teeth Unexplained numbness in the mouth or neck area

Taking good care of your mouth is crucial for your general health and well-being. To reduce your risk of oral cancer, visit your dentist every six months, follow good oral hygiene practices, reduce your consumption of alcohol, quit smoking/using tobacco products, and enjoy nutritional foods. Enjoy a happy and healthy smile for years to come. Contact your dental health care provider to schedule a checkup. Early detection is the best prevention.

Dr. Michael Cox is a dentist with BridgeMill Dentistry on Sixes Road. 770-704-1812. BridgeMillDentistry.com

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

PublicSafety

Kids Don’t Float! By Lisa M. Grisham, CPSTI

afe Kids Cherokee County works diligently during the spring and summer to remind everyone to be safe in and around water. At Lake Allatoona and two locations on the Etowah River, visitors will find Life Jacket Loaner Stations, which are a physical and visual reminder to wear life jackets while boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. The Army Corps of Engineers, Cherokee Recreation & Parks, Woodstock Parks and Recreation, and Canton Parks & Recreation partner with Safe Kids Cherokee to keep the “use and return” life jackets stocked throughout the season. These items are funded through grants and a generous donation from Northside Hospital Cherokee. The last couple of years set records for boaters, kayakers, canoers, and paddle boarders on the lakes, and it’s looking like this year will be no different. With an increase in people on the water, there is also an increase in risk. The hope is that the loaner stations will serve as a reminder and be an easily accessible option to remain safe. Each of the loaner stations has helpful information to assist users with sizing and wearing a life jacket correctly.

If you are taking children to swim at a nearby pool, lake, or river this summer, the most important thing to remember is to maintain active supervision. These tips can keep your children safe:  Kids under age 6 should stay within arm’s reach when around water — including the bathtub.  Kids over age 6 who can confidently swim two lengths of the pool without stopping should stay where you can see them.  Don’t let your guard down. Drowning can happen quickly, silently, and in as little as one inch of water.  Put away phones and other distractions. Don’t rely on a lifeguard to watch your child. Have a system with other parents where one person is actively supervising and then trade out every 15-30 minutes, so everyone takes a turn.  Swim lessons are a good idea, but not a replacement for your hands and eyes.  Use approved flotation devices. Inflatables like swimmies/arm floaties are not dependable.  Even strong swimmers are at risk for drowning. Talk to your teen about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and risk-taking behaviors in the water. For more water safety information, visit SafeKidsCherokeeCounty.org and follow @safekidscherokeecounty on Facebook. If your child needs a life jacket, please call 678-493-4343 to learn how you can receive one through the Safe Kids program. Safe Kids Cherokee County is a local coalition of community partners who have a common goal to help children and parents be safer at home, at play, and on the road via education and safety equipment distribution. Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services is the proud lead agency for the coalition.

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

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

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Commission Chairman

Harry Johnston Leads the Way To Keep Cherokee Great

herokee County Commission Chairman Harry Johnston is a proven leader, who is committed to managing growth, finding solutions to transportation issues, supporting public safety, creating jobs, and expanding parks and recreation, while keeping county taxes low. “Cherokee County is an absolute treasure, and I want to make sure we preserve all the great things about our county that make it tops in Georgia. I’m committed to maintaining our quality of life,” Johnston says. Johnston is seeking reelection for a second term in the May 24 Republican primary. Under Johnston’s leadership, Cherokee is the best managed county in the state, measured in terms of top-ranked county services at super low tax rates. Cherokee’s Commission controlled property tax and sales tax add up to be the second lowest county taxes in Georgia. Just 22 years ago, Cherokee’s fire service was mostly volunteer. Today, it’s one of the best countywide departments in Georgia. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is nationally accredited, and Cherokee County enjoys the lowest violent crime rate in the metro Atlanta region, making it a safe place to live and raise a family. The parks and recreation program was just named best in the state by the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association.

As a CPA and former accounting manager with Southern Company and Georgia Power for 42 years, Johnston provides financial knowledge to help plan and manage the county’s multi-milliondollar budget. Johnston remains dedicated to a responsible land-use plan that holds the county’s growth rate to a level that gives the roads, schools, and infrastructure a fighting chance to keep up. “We’ve managed our growth better than other fast-growing counties. Since responsible-growth commissioners gained control of the Board of Commissioners in 2007, we’ve been able to reduce the growth rate by more than half. And except for some state highways, we’ve been able to keep the roads up with the growth. Now the state is working hard on Highway 20, and the county has stepped up to make interim improvements on Highway 140 to keep that state highway functioning until the state can improve it,” Johnston said. With Johnston’s leadership, Cherokee County is on the cusp of cooperative agreements with Holly Springs and Woodstock to limit annexations and allow more effective overall management of

“I’m committed to maintaining our quality of life. I ask for your vote and support to continue as chairman of your Board of Commissioners” – Commission Chairman Harry Johnston.

Cherokee’s growth and development. The County already has cooperative relationships with Canton, Ball Ground, and Waleska. Johnston is married to his wife of 46 years, Rebecca Johnston, a Cherokee County native, and they have two grown children, one grandson, and two granddaughters. He is a life-long Republican, and active in the local Republican Party for 26 years. Johnston holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance and accounting from Georgia State University, and he is involved in numerous civic organizations. This is a paid advertisment

For more information, please visit HarryJohnston.com. 26

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| May 2022

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YOU’RE GOING TO WORSHIP So, Choose Carefully By Pastor George Anderson

[InGoodFaith] There’s a German proverb that says, “What thou lovest, that thou dost become.” Another way to put that is, “You become what you worship.” It is a law that God has fixed into the universe. Human beings are worshippers. This is an inescapable reality. The ancient Greeks knew this. Their word for “man” was “anthropos,” which means, “the upward looking one.” Man searches for meaning and answers all around and inside himself. His search leaves him empty and desperate. But eventually, if he is wise, he looks up. Like Bob Dylan sang, “You gotta serve somebody.” What we worship is what we choose to pursue with all our heart. It could be a thing such as a job, a hobby, knowledge,

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

fame, or wealth. Or the object of our worship could be a person — a musician, an influencer, a sports star, or even the person we see in the mirror. What you choose to worship will largely determine what you become. God said through Jeremiah the prophet: “The people chose to pursue worthless idols and became worthless themselves,” (Jeremiah 2:5, 2 Kings 17:5). If you worship the wrong something, you become wrong, which is not what you want. God created us to worship him and him alone. So, what is the upside of worshipping Jesus? You become like Jesus. The apostle Paul wrote, “We all, with unveiled faces, are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord

and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit,” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Who wouldn’t agree that this world would be much better off if there were more people like Jesus walking around? You can choose to worship Jesus in his house this Sunday. You can choose to worship Jesus right now, wherever you are, by reading his word and praying. L

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

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Georgia’s Pollinators Need Our Help By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male parts of a flower to the female parts of the same or different flower. For most of the fruits and vegetables that we enjoy, this transfer is made by insects such as flies, moths, butterflies, wasps, and bees. A 2014 economic impact study by the University of Georgia determined that the annual value of pollination to Georgia was $367 million, which makes it just as critical to our agriculture as rainfall and soil fertility. Pollinators, bees in particular, have suffered declining populations in recent years. The cause for this decline is multifaceted and includes loss of habitat, simplification of agricultural and suburban landscapes, pests and diseases that affect domesticated pollinators, and the use of pesticides. Pollinators need our help, so here are a few things you can do to improve the situation for these wonderful creatures.

Plant a pollinator garden. Choose plants that flower at different times of the year to create a continuous supply of nectar and pollen, and plant in clumps instead of single plants. Provide a variety of colors and flower shapes and use native plants as much as possible.

Provide nesting sites. Most native bees nest in the ground, in wood, or in dry plant stems. If it is not a safety concern, consider leaving a dead tree or limb undisturbed. Small blocks of wood can be drilled with ¼ to ½-inch holes that are three inches deep to provide a nest habitat.

Avoid or limit pesticides. Pesticides often lead to worse pest problems, as they kill predatory insects, as well. A landscape with a variety of plants that are well adapted to our area is one of the best ways to reduce the need for pesticides.

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Knows Best

ince all mothers and mother figures have their own unique approach and personality when raising children, Family Life thought it would be fun to share advice that some of our contributors have received from the special individuals who helped them become successful adults. Happy Mother’s Day!

“Abide by the golden rule and always strive to obey the 10 Commandments.”

Eddie Robinson, Fire Chief Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services The best advice I ever received from my mother is to “abide by the golden rule and always strive to obey the 10 Commandments.” She made it easy to understand the difference between right and wrong and would often remind me that, no matter the circumstance, I should always do what’s right. If we treat others the way we want to be treated and consider them with care and compassion, we will never go wrong. Remember, every person you encounter, no matter how difficult, is someone who God created and loves dearly.

Vicky Tuszynski, Office Manager Family Life Publications My grandmother, Elizabeth Garrison, used to say, “Always

choose to look for the good in people.” And I would say, “But they

did this bad thing!” To which she would respond with, “Yes, but they also did these good things, too.” She was a faithful Christian who always lived her life like that.

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief Family Life Publications “Pretty is as pretty does” was a phrase my mother said many times when I was a child, most likely when I was acting out about not getting my way for one reason or another. At the time, the weight of that statement was mostly lost on me. But as an adult, I’ve often caught myself thinking about this phrase while witnessing or reading about aesthetically attractive people who’ve chosen to do some not-so-pretty things. Overall, I’ve learned that while physical beauty is subjectively “in the eye of the beholder,” choosing to do good things will always be perceived as beautiful by most everyone.

“Be persistent with pursuing my passion and never give up.” Shannon Wallace, District Attorney Cherokee County Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit Probably the best advice my mother has given me is to “be persistent with pursuing my passion and never give up.” I’m very fortunate to have a mother who has always believed in me and encouraged me to shoot for the moon in every aspect of my life. She has taught me that nothing worth having comes easy and that anything can be accomplished with tenacity and hard work.

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Dr. Brian V. Hightower, Superintendent of Schools Cherokee County School District My mother, Linda Adams Hightower, was the absolute best when it came to being an encouraging, Bible-quoting cheerleader for me growing up. Whether struggling with a tough history essay or being nervous about an upcoming ball game, she could be counted on to assertively remind me, “You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength!” While my family might not always enjoy sitting near her in the stands during a competition or game (think “loud”), she was definitely in her element. And, what a legacy she left, with not only family, but friends and teammates knowing they always had someone in their corner.

Cyndi Braun, Associate Editor Family Life Publications My mom always said, “If you want something

Bruce Thompson, State Senator Georgia’s 14th Senate District There are two things my mom said that have really stuck with me: “You will never truly understand the love I have

for you until you hold your own child in your arms!”

and “Stay focused on the windshield and not the rearview mirror because it’s hard to see what God may have in front of you if you are constantly looking behind you.”

“Treat everyone the same – with dignity and respect – regardless of their circumstances, race, or appearance.” Bill Grant, Mayor City of Canton My mother was a real pistol, so it was usually me giving advice to her! However, there are two lessons I recall. From an early age, she always taught me to “treat everyone the same – with dignity and respect – regardless of their circumstances, race, or appearance.” The second important advice my mama gave me was to “never over-mix or over-work biscuit dough,” unless I wanted them to turn out like hockey pucks!

bad enough, do everything you can to achieve it.”

She probably learned that from my grandmother who never shrank from a fight. With these women as role models, I did something bold in high school – I joined the boys’ track team because my school did not offer a girls’ program. I fought for acceptance and a place on that team. By the end of the season, I made it to regional finals, inspired the school to offer a girls’ team, and learned that perseverance pays off.

Tiffany Corn, Graphic Artist Family Life Publications

“If you don’t have anything nice to say, keep your damn mouth shut.” – Tammy Atwood

Stephanie Bolton, Graphic Artist Family Life Publications I’m fortunate to still have both my parents, and both have taught me so much. One thing my mom used to say that still pops into my head is, “Learn to type.” When I was in high school, my mom insisted I learn to type because it’s a skill that I would always need. I didn’t really understand it at the time, but I did it. Now, whenever I see someone hen-pecking the keyboard, I hear her voice and think, “I’m glad I learned to type.”

Frank Reynolds, Sheriff Cherokee Sheriff’s Office My grandmother, Mildred, always used to say, “Life is all about the

experience. Enjoy it.”

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Congratulations, Jon Gustin

2022 CCSD Teacher of the Year! educator who pours “Jon is an exceptional in the classroom, so much into his kids — nsors, in the through the clubs he spo t of Schools den ten erin community,” Sup said. “He exemplifies Dr. Brian V. Hightower in our teachers. everything we look for we’re grateful for We’re proud of Jon, and ry day for our kids.” him and all he does eve e as CCSD’s Gustin will now advanc Teacher of the ia org Ge nominee for the Year competition.

What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school? “Be involved in their education through volunteering at the school, asking about their grades, and sitting down with them and asking them to show them what they are doing in class. As long as your student is working hard and learning, praise them for their efforts,” he said. “I also strongly encourage parents to take their students somewhere away from academics. Students need a break. Take them somewhere that they can be themselves, a hike or somewhere that they can relax. High stress levels and anxiety are slowly becoming more common, and we need to give them a place or option to let off some steam. Let kids be kids!”

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

Teacher Feature BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

Jon Gustin C

herokee HS science teacher Jon Gustin makes sure his students master state learning standards, but that isn’t what he cares most about.

Growing up, Gustin knew he wanted to help others. He first thought medicine was his career path until he worked as a substitute teacher while he was a college student.

For the 13-year educator, who is the 2022 CCSD Teacher of the Year, it’s more important that his students gain critical thinking skills and a greater love of learning. Gustin uses argument-driven inquiry and project-based lessons to accomplish this in his environmental science classes. He helped lead the districtwide implementation of argument-driven inquiry lessons and now trains colleagues.

“I knew I had found my calling,” Gustin said of teaching, which led him to change his major and graduate with a science education degree from Kennesaw State University.

“Argument-driven inquiry teaches critical thinking skills. It forces students into a productive struggle, where they learn to raise questions, solve problems, and analyze data,” Gustin said. “When you create a classroom that is centered around students and allowing them to solve problems and feeling free to make mistakes, the student is the spotlight, and their creativity is allowed to flow. The students work through peer review and help build each other up. It is an amazing opportunity, and it allows me to step to the side and become a facilitator of learning. So many lessons should be learned instead of taught, letting the students experience the information hands-on is one of the single most important learning practices.”

A strong believer in building positive relationships with students, Gustin has coached sports, including varsity soccer, and currently helps sponsor three school clubs: the Environmental Action Club, Diversity Club, and Conversation Club. He’s also frequently in the audience, in the stands, or on the sidelines at student activities to support all Cherokee HS students. A recent moment of pride: being invited to throw out the first pitch at the school’s baseball home opener. “I love my community and school,” said Gustin, who also volunteers with his church, youth sports, and Scouts. “Cherokee County is such an amazing place with such a strong community.”

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

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GET INVOLVED How Adolescents Benefit From Volunteering By Emma Tyler [Lifestyle] When teenagers hear the term “volunteer,” they typically think of the most obvious and important benefit linked to it, which is helping others in the community. However, volunteering provides a multitude of additional benefits that may not initially come to mind. These include improving mental health, boosting confidence, building professional experience, and developing relationships with others – all of which can improve many aspects of life. Volunteering positively affects mental health through the connections it builds. Maintaining regular contact with others lessens the effects of stress and anxiety, combats depression, and builds a solid support system. Kylie Warden, a young local volunteer, said that volunteering drastically improved her mental health. “We are all humans and in need of love. Every time I have been reminded of this, I am filled with love and encouragement from the volunteer work I have done,” Warden said.

the administrative assistant for Reinhardt University’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes and plans to continue working in a career that allows her to serve others. As a result of volunteer work, valuable connections and relationships are bound to be created. One of the most efficient ways to develop new friendships is to commit to a shared activity together. Not only does it broaden your social network, but it also exposes you to people with common interests, which helps increase social skills and allows you to branch out and strengthen your ties with the community. Teenagers can improve not only other lives, but also their own by volunteering in their communities. Cherokee County has a variety of places that would be a great start including food pantries, senior centers, and the Humane Society. L

Emma Tyler is a junior AP/honors student at Cherokee High School who has been nominated twice for the Governor’s Honors Program for literature. In college, she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in English or journalism.

Warden discussed her countless volunteer hours at children’s summer camps, Fellowship of Christian Athlete events, Cherokee County Young Life, and other volunteer efforts through River Ridge HS. Her years of serving have given her the confidence to step up and help others when she sees a need. She’s thankful that through these volunteer opportunities, she has been able to step outside of her comfort zone. By instilling a sense of pride and dignity, volunteerism has helped Warden develop a positive view of her future and goals. Another benefit of volunteer work is the valuable job skills one may acquire while in service of others. Some opportunities provide the chance to try out a new career without making a longterm commitment. Sometimes, you can volunteer at a specific organization that interests you. Now in college, Warden found that her volunteer experience helped to shape her future. She is currently 34

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Straight Facts About Orthodontics By Dr. Michelle Mathieson

[HealthyLife] Did you know orthodontics is not just for cosmetic purposes? Orthodontics can help with many dental problems, and treatment can be done at any age. There are a lot of people who don’t realize they could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Here is some information about common problems, and why they should be corrected. Common Orthodontic Problems in Adults and Children: • Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth • Tipped teeth (if the patient is missing teeth) • Spacing issues/gaps between teeth • Open bite (teeth don’t overlap), which can lead to difficulty eating • Deep bite (teeth overlap too much in the front), which can lead to worn-down teeth • Flaring or protruding incisors • Tooth wear from grinding/clenching teeth • Jaws that are too far forward or back and don’t line up properly, leading to TMJ problems • Difficulty chewing or biting

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

Reasons Why Correcting Orthodontic Problems Is Important: • Prevents or improves periodontal problems such as bone loss around teeth • Betters the dentist’s ability to restore missing teeth • Perfects aesthetics for a better smile and facial appearance • Enhances self-confidence and self-esteem • Helps overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean • Improves function of teeth How long does treatment take? It depends on the complexity of the case as well as what the patient wants to achieve. The average treatment time is around 18-24 months with modern technology and patient compliance. What are the treatment options? If you are looking for an aesthetic option, ceramic (clear) braces, Spark clear aligners (like Invisalign but better!), and InBrace (braces that go on the backs of teeth) are all great options. Traditional metal braces are also available, and they are smaller than they were 20 years ago. How often must patients come to the office for appointments? Most adjustment appointments for Dr. Michelle Mathieson is braces are spaced an orthodontist at Harmony Orthodontics, 149 Reinhardt out 6-8 weeks, and College Parkway, Suite 2, Canton. appointments for 770-988-6552. aligners can be up to HarmonyOrthoStudio.com 12 weeks apart.

FamilyLife Publications.com

ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

BRENDA PINNICK Finding Beauty in the Everyday

Plein air artist Brenda Pinnick sets out in the early mornings, the back of her SUV loaded with a wagon, tripod, linen canvasses, and her pochade box, which carries her oil paints, palette, and brushes. She’s looking for beauty. One day an aging barn might catch her eye, another a home, a church, or a landscape — any subject where light interacts with shapes and color to create value, depth, and a sense of place.

“It’s about our everyday world, looking beyond. The more I paint, the more I see beauty everywhere I look,” she said. Pinnick is especially drawn to painting subjects that won’t exist much longer and conveying the life that has transpired within those places. Often, as she paints, people approach her and share stories of who has lived in a home. She is especially gratified when her paintings help people find beauty in what had seemed ordinary or even unattractive to them. When a site catches her eye, she might explore, walking around buildings, always looking for interesting shapes, leading lines, and light. Some days, she completes mini sketches or studies to capture the light. “The light changes a lot in three hours. The shadows, which are an important part of the design, become too different, and the color of the light changes,” she explained. “Morning light is softer and warmer, then it becomes harsher as the day moves forward.” Pinnick first applies neutral, semitransparent colors to get the big shapes in place. From these studies, she paints finished canvasses in her studio. Other days, she paints alla prima, completing a painting in one session, on-site.

For more information about the artist, please visit BrendaPinnick.com. 36

Canton Family Life

| May 2022

Once she begins, Pinnick is immersed in her painting, focused on making one decision after another, capturing every detail about the scenes she paints. “It’s a full sensory experience — you can feel the wind, hear the birds. it’s an all-encompassing experience,” she said. “It’s magical.” Pinnick prefers oils to other mediums because they allow her to achieve the translucency that adds depth and vibrancy to her works. And, she carries only primary colors, mixing them to create whatever hue she needs, layering the paint, beginning with the transparent tones that allow the white of her linen canvasses to show through, almost creating a glow. She then moves to using more opaque tints while still allowing some of the transparent colors to emerge. On gray days, when the light isn’t optimum, Pinnick will paint a still life in her studio, using a spotlight to illumine her subject, which is often flowers. “They’re fun,” she enthused. “Because they’re indulgent color. I can use red right out of the tube. You can’t do that in natural light.” While looking at Pinnick’s works, viewers are transported. They might see a landscape or a structure that reminds them of a childhood memory. They might feel the warmth of the sun, as it bounces off a roof. They might hear the trickle of water, as it moves over stones. Whether painting an old family home or the back of a storefront, Pinnick says her art “is about connections to places, looking for and reacting to beauty in unexpected places and unexpected ways.” Add

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Book Review BY JOHN RODGERS

How To Grow a

MONSTER

hile Cherokee County students celebrate the end of the school year this month, younger readers are looking forward to a different kind of graduation ceremony at their public library. During the month of May, Sequoyah Regional Library System holds a celebration for graduates of 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, an initiative launched by the Georgia Public Library Service for families in support of early literacy. Children (and their parents) can participate in reading challenges, log milestones, and record the books they’ve read using Beanstack, available from their local library as an app or a website. Families looking to log another title, as they read their way to 1,000, can select How To Grow a Monster by Kiki Thorpe and Barbara Bongini, which is now available at every location within Sequoyah Regional Library System. The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and the Georgia EMC, in partnership with the county Farm Bureau, have donated multiple copies of How To Grow a Monster to SRLS to promote agricultural literacy. The title explores the theme of gardening and includes a gardening-related activity for children to try. Tapping into the popular “Makers” movement, this book is part of a series of fun, easy-to-read stories that focus on problem solving and hands-on action. The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture even selected this book as its 2022 Book of the Year, citing its accurate and positive portrayal of agriculture. SRLS cardholders with a taste for agricultural history are encouraged to seek this book out to enjoy alongside the children in their lives during their next library visit. Although the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten graduation ceremony takes place this month, the program itself is ongoing. Parents and caregivers can speak with a library staff member in person or over the phone to sign up, learn about Beanstack, and start setting their young reader up for success.

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

Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations

Cherokee County Fire Station #15

5225 Yellow Creek Road Ball Ground/Mica Community Fire Station

Coosa Valley Credit Union 12178 Highway 92 Woodstock 706-235-8551 Credit Union

Piedmont Urgent Care

LGE Community Credit Union

UGA Extension Cherokee County

Georgia Division of Family & Children Services

2026 Cumming Highway, Suite 100 Canton 470-541-2255 Medical/Health Care

1130 Bluffs Parkway, Suite G44 Canton 770-721-7803 Nonprofit Organization 38

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936 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock 770-424-0060 Financial Institution

1300 Univeter Road, Suite 100 Canton 770-720-3610 Government Agency

The Joint Chiropractic

1810 Cumming Highway, Suite 1300 Canton 678-839-7984 Chiropractor

Truist Bank

1450 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock 678-932-4904 Bank

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Big Families By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] I love to hear my seniors talk about how many brothers and sisters they had. Many had more than five siblings, but the most I’ve heard was 12. My parents had a combined total of 14 brothers and sisters. Large families used to be very common, and I guess we all know why. My dad’s family were farmers, so having lots of kids meant more hands to work the fields. His family grew all their vegetables and raised their own livestock, so not having a lot of money was not a problem with that many children. I am the youngest of four boys. Growing up in a large family was very enjoyable, but it did not come without a lot of knock-down-drag-out fights. We fought about some of the smallest things. Those stories still make us laugh when we tell them. But we always watched each other’s back for any trouble. I think most families still look out for each other, but in my job, that is not always the case. Many seniors struggle with being alone and have no family to help them. Sometimes, they have grown children who do not help them on a regular basis, which makes us sad to hear.

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

But, in my experience, if the senior has siblings living close by, they tend to do everything they can to help each other. I once had a senior whose sister lived up north, and she would call us to go check on her sibling if she didn’t answer her phone. As a society, we must look after our elders to make sure they’re OK. 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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Advertiser Index Bananas + Beehives

BridgeMill Dentistry

Capital Recovery Corporation

The Carpenter’s Shop

Chamberhouse

Chattahoochee Tech

Cherokee Children’s Dentistry

Cherokee Chorale

Cherokee Floor Covering

Inside Back

Christian Brothers Automotive — Cherokee

CSA Impact

Darby Funeral Home, Inc.

Downtown Canton’s First Friday

DT Chiropractic

Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University

Family Practice Center

The Goddard School

Inside Back

Golfing FORE! The Children Hosted by Service League of Cherokee County Great Sky

29 Inside Front

Happy Eyes Optometry

Harmony Orthodontics

Harry Johnston for Commisson Chair

26, Back Cover

Import Auto Repair

Inside Front

Jaunt Service Co.

Jyl Craven Hair Design

Cover, 20-21

Killian Automotive

Landscape Matters, Inc.

LGE Community Credit Union

Masterpiece Framer

Mathnasium of Holly Springs

Next Step Ministries

Off Your Plate

PhotoJack.net

Savoy Automobile Museum

Southernite Interiors

St. George Village

The Tint Guy

Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents

Woodstock Summer Concert Series

Online ads link to advertisers’ websites. 40

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