Canton Family Life 6-23

PUBLISHER

Family Life Magazines

Publisher@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

PHOTOGRAPHER/ PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Jack Tuszynski

This Is Life

It’s been 10 years since I first started getting really serious about this. “This? This what?” you may ask — this magazine, this Life. Ten years ago, Family Life Publications was just a handful of notes, a sketch of a logo, a rough draft of an employee handbook and plan. It literally all started with a prayer. When the first five employees walked into the office on July 1, 2013, my life, this “Life” was about to change.

Some people asked, “What is a single guy from Cherokee, a local photographer his entire life, doing starting a family magazine?” Honestly, I asked myself that at times, too. With faith, surrounded by like-minded friends, employees, and community, the dream became reality. Over the past decade, this magazine has built connections within our cities, our families, and between each other through our friendly relationship with our readers, and it will continue to do so for years to come.

But let’s get to the point – this is my last Publisher’s Perspective. You may have read here before that “we are the sum of our circumstances.” While I feel that statement is accurate, know that when you add God to the equation, the result is always a positive.

See, through this magazine, I met my wife and now have two great kids — a family of my own. My new wife, a nurse, helped keep me around during a pandemic and helped renew this publication during and after it. These magazines also put me in the right place to be able to help a friend in need when he suffered a cardiac arrest, so he could continue to care for his family.

Through this very column, my dad located me after decades of estrangement. After reading my Publisher’s Perspective in his new home, he contacted me, which offered us a chance for forgiveness and renewal. My God has turned the equation positive in so many ways.

Most importantly, I have learned what family and life really mean. It’s not about spare time; it’s about quality time. It’s the family table, baseball games, horse shows, fishing, and enjoying special moments just being alive. Life is finding ways to help each other, as well as to enjoy, laugh, and grow together. That’s how my life, this Life, continues, and I pray your life does as well.

I’ll be making more time for my family now. It’s time to concentrate on their dreams. May God bless you and make time to enjoy the blessings in your life.

Jack Tuszynski Photographer, Publisher Emeritus

I’m staying on as photographer.

Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

SALES/MARKETING MANAGER

David Wright

David@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Holly Cummings, Rachel Hines, Kevin Huff, Kay Kirkpatrick, Tim Morris, Leyna Pope, Ellen Samsell Salas, Brooke Schmidt

Family Life Magazines

6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095

Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com

Family Life Magazines 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.

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.

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

© 2022 All rights reserved.

(L-R) James, Vicky, Jack, and Molly

Avoiding Family Feuds

By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] Some people think Senior Services offers legal advice, but that is far from the truth. We normally refer someone to an attorney or Georgia Legal Aid. I’ve taken many calls inquiring about wills, probate, powers of attorney, and advance directives.

However, I’ve heard some horrible stories about people feuding over inheritances that have broken families apart. My own family had issues regarding property. In the late 1800s, my Great Grandfather Morris owned more than 2,000 acres in central Georgia. He had eight children, one of whom was my grandfather. When my great grandfather died, all his land was divided among his children. As far as I know, there was no feuding among the siblings. But because the Morris family was so land rich, others in the community were bitter.

During one incident in the early 1900s, a man boasted that he would kill every Morris man he encountered. News of this spread quickly. My grandfather’s oldest brother, Smith, decided to take care of the problem. He challenged the man to a duel. When the two met up, my Uncle Smith shot and killed the other man with witnesses at the scene.

My grandmother didn’t speak to her baby sister for the last 50 years of her life due to a dispute

over property that my grandmother had simply asked about. Her sister said she never wanted to talk to her again, so they didn’t.

About five years before my grandmother died, she put an ad on the radio for a free dog. She got a call from a lady, whom she spoke with for an hour. When she told the lady where she could pick up the dog, the caller abruptly hung up. It was her sister who called about the dog, not knowing who she was calling.

There are many stories I could share about the property and the hardships it caused. My best advice is for seniors to have their wills and other legal documents drawn up to clearly state how they want things divided as well as their personal wishes regarding health matters. Please contact your preferred elder care attorney for advice and assistance. L

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

2 Downtown Canton

First Friday: The Troubadour Project

(70s rock)

Experience a night filled with live entertainment, extended hours for shopping, restaurants, a Kids Zone, and food and beverage vendors. Please bring a chair.

6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov; CantonGa.gov

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Calendar JUNE

Back to Broadway — The Cherokee Chorale presents a show featuring medleys from favorite musicals, conducted by Scott L. Martin. 4:00pm, River Ridge HS, 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. CherokeeChorale.org

5-11 2023 Reinhardt Piano Festival

Enjoy a week of virtuoso piano music by internationally acclaimed artists. 6/5 Alexander Wasserman, 6/7 Michael Schneider, 6/8 Julia Siciliano, 6/9 Frank Huang, 6/10 Michael Finlay, and 6/11 Zsolt Bognár. Tickets

$15/concert or $60/series. 7:30pm MondayFriday and 3:00pm Saturday-Sunday, Falany Performing Arts Center Concert Hall, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Reinhardt.edu/pianofestival

8, 15, 22, & 29

Family Movies — Enjoy family friendly films on the big screen for $1 per person. 6/8 Encanto, 6/15 Strange World, 6/22 Wakanda Forever, and 6/29 Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 10:00am and 2:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

9 Verano de Cine Familiar: In the Heights — Disfrute de esta pelicula familiar en la gran pantalla por 1$ por persona. 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

June Is — National Camping, Candy, Country Cooking, Dairy, Great Outdoors, Iced Tea, PTSD Awareness, and Soul Food Month as well as Audiobook, Care for Your Grandparents, Guitars on the Beach, International Mud, and Pride Month.

Canton Farmers Market — Saturdays, 9:00am-12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov; Facebook.com/ CantonGAFarmersMarket

Ball Ground Farmers Market — Saturdays, 9:00am-1:00pm, Ball Ground City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. Facebook.com/BallGroundFarmersMarket

Screen on the Green — Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

Community Yoga Classes — Mondays, 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

Fresh Start Mornings — The first and third Wednesdays of each month, 9:00am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock (first WED); Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton (third WED). 770-345-0660. CherokeeGa.org/FreshStartMornings

9 & 16

Parent’s Night Out

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

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TRopical Night at the Oasis

Enjoy a night of swimming, games, and family fun at the outdoor Oasis Water Park. The aquatic center is excited to partner with Therapeutic Recreation to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities. 5:007:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

ONGOING

Unwind Wednesdays — Last Wednesday of each month (through October), 5:30-8:30pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E, Canton. 770-501-8002. PlayCherokee.org

Market at The Mill — Tuesdays, 3:00-7:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month, 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. MilVetCommunity.com

Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting

First Thursday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org

10 Summer Concert

Series: Guardians of the Jukebox — This cover band will take you back in time to the music of the 80s! Come dressed in your best totally tubular attire and rock the night away at this 80s prom themed event. 8:00-10:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

12 Georgia Flames Golf Tournament

This four-person scramble tourney benefits the Georgia Flames Girls Travel Basketball Team. Door prizes, longest drive, and closest to the pin contests. Breakfast and coffee provided by Giggle Monsters and Woodstock Coffee Company. Lunch also included. $125 per golfer.

7:30am check in and 9:00am

shotgun start, Towne Lake Hills

Golf Club, 1003 Towne Lake Hills East, Woodstock. 779-883-8493. Golf2Grow.com/ georgia-flames-basketball

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5th Annual Golfing FORE! the Children — Once you check in for this event, you will enjoy breakfast, grab your goodie bag, and purchase mulligans and raffle tickets before hitting the links. Lunch is provided in the clubhouse after you finish. $130 per golfer or $500 for a foursome. Proceeds benefit Cherokee County children. 7:30am registration and 9:00am shotgun start, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net

16 Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10. All proceeds benefit local seniors and senior veterans.

11:30am-1:00pm, Wickshire Canton, 125 Riverstone Terrace, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

16-25 A Bad Year for Tomatoes

Fed up with the pressures and demands of her acting career, Myra Marlowe leases a house in a tiny New England hamlet and settles down to write her autobiography when chaos ensues in this comedic stage play. Tickets $18 adults/$15 seniors,

students, military, and members. 8:00pm Fridays and Saturdays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-591-0282. CherokeeTheatre.org

17 Artist Paint-Off: A Celebration of North Georgia

Enjoy a live painting event, featuring local artists who will debut artworks that focus on North Georgia scenes and motifs. Music and refreshments provided. 6:00-8:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

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14 Intro to White Water Kayaking for Veterans Team River Runner Atlanta hosts FREE pool sessions for introduction to white water kayaking, paddle strokes, and roll practice. Gear is provided if needed. 7:309:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. 706-974-4832. TeamRiverRunner.org

The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty) — Second and fourth Thursdays of each month, 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.

Live Music at The Mill — Fridays, 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

Canton Business Club Meeting

Wednesdays, 8:00am, Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton. Facebook.com (search for “Canton Business Club”)

Waleska Farmers Market — Thursdays, 9:00am1:00pm, Waleska Farmers Market, 8891 Fincher Road, Waleska. 404-805-7468. Facebook.com/WaleskaFarmersMarket

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SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

BALL GROUND

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

R.T. JONES

116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090

SUMMER DISCOVERY KICK-OFF

WITH JEFFINI THE GREAT!

June 6, 10:30am, R. T. Jones

June 8, 2:00pm, Ball Ground

All ages are welcome to enjoy a magic show by Jeffini the Great! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Spots are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

TEEN AGRO-LAB — STRAWBERRY DNA EXTRACTION

June 13, 2:00pm, R. T. Jones

Teens will learn about and explore the world of agriculture in this month’s lab, which will focus on extracting DNA from strawberries. All materials will be supplied.

COMMUNITY HELPERS: DELPHI GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY

June 15, 3:00pm, R. T. Jones

Learn from Delphi Global Technology’s chief infrastructure architect, John Barker, about what it’s like to work in a tech field, and what he does in a day. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

TEEN RECORD BREAKERS CHALLENGE

June 15, 5:00pm, Ball Ground

In this program, teens compete to break world records in an assortment of categories. Win prizes and get your name in the history books, all while having fun with your friends.

DONUTS WITH GROWNUPS

June 16, 11:00am, Ball Ground

Children and their caregivers are invited to enjoy donuts and coffee/juice, a themed craft, and an area to take selfies together to commemorate the fun morning. Refreshments and art supplies will be provided while supplies last. All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

LOTUS LANTERN MAKING

June 20, 3:00pm, R. T. Jones

Join the Korean Spirit Culture Promotion Project to listen to a short Zoom presentation, then learn how to make a lotus lantern. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

CLAY COIL HEARTS FOR KIDS

June 29, 4:00pm, Ball Ground

Children will learn to use air dry clay and make coil-style hearts. All materials will be provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

23 Cherokee County Bruins Semi-Pro Football Team Golf Tournament — This four-person scramble includes great door prizes, a silent auction, longest drive, and closest to the pin contests. Breakfast and lunch included. $110 per golfer.

7:30am check in and 9:00am shotgun start, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. 770-883-8493. Golf2Grow.com/cherokee-county-bruins

24 City of Ball Ground Fireworks

Celebrate Independence Day a little early with the Fly Betty band and an amazing fireworks show, which will be visible throughout the city. 7:00pm Fly Betty and 9:30pm fireworks, City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground (Fly Betty) and Ball Ground Community Center, 250 Civic Drive, Ball Ground (fireworks). 678-454-5075. CityOfBallGround.com

JULY

Summer Concert Series: Guardians of the Jukebox — This cover band will take you back in time to the music of the 80s! Come dressed in your favorite patriotic attire and rock the night away at this American themed event. 8:00-10:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

1

4 4th of July in Canton — The American Legion’s Canton Post will host a patriotic parade in downtown Canton, and a spectacular fireworks show will begin at dusk. 4:00pm (parade) and 9:00pm (fireworks), downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton (parade) and Publix Shopping Center, 1451 Riverstone Parkway, Canton (fireworks). CantonGa.gov

ONGOING

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— Second Sunday of each month, 10:00am-2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/

Thursdays, 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

Music at Menagerie — Second Saturday of each month, 7:00-9:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

Karaoke Night — First Friday of each month, 8:0010:00pm, The Mill on Etowah/Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

CantonNotes

Sweet Summertime

IN CANTON

By Brooke Schmidt

Thesummer season in Canton is filled with enjoyable entertainment options. Here are some of the highlights:

FIRST FRIDAY

The Troubadour Project (6/2) and Rupert’s Orchestra (7/7)

Bring your friends and hang out in downtown Canton for a family friendly night filled with live entertainment.

The Troubadour Project faithfully recreates all the sounds, vibe, and essence of the most iconic rock bands from the 1970s, delivered by world class musicians and vocalists. Rock to songs from Led Zeppelin, The Who, Eagles, Wings, Heart, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Peter Frampton, and ELO. From Atlanta, the band features touring musicians from Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles, Sheryl Crow, Noel Gallagher, and Elton Live.

Rupert’s Orchestra has a huge and eclectic repertoire, performing everything from current Top 40 hits to Motown, R&B, Classic Rock, and Big Band Swing. The show is flashy and highly interactive. Partygoers of all ages will get caught up in the fun.

Along Main and North Streets, enjoy extended shopping hours, worldclass restaurants ready to welcome you, a Kids’ Zone, food and beverage vendors, and a cruise in. Don’t forget chairs and dancin’ shoes!

WOMEN’S PREMIER SOCCER HOME GAMES

Cheer for Canton’s very own women’s soccer team! Playing at Cherokee HS, the June games for the women’s Georgia Impact inaugural season take place on 6/3 vs. FC Birmingham, 6/17 vs. Charlotte Eagles, and 6/21 vs. Atlanta Fire United. All three games begin at 7:00pm. Single game tickets and season passes are available at GaImpactWPSL.com.

FRESH FUN AT CANTON FARMERS MARKET

The popular Canton Farmers Market opens June 3 and runs every Saturday through September 2. Held in Brown Park, behind History Cherokee and across from the Downtown Parking Deck, visitors to the market will find flowers, baked goods, salsa and sauces, and seasonal, locally grown produce. The market also often hosts yoga in the park, an annual pie contest, and other great activities. Check out CantonGa.gov or follow the Canton Farmers’ Market page on social media for details.

SUMMER FAMILY MOVIES AT CANTON THEATRE

Family fun has never been more affordable! Head to the historic Canton Theatre each Thursday in June and July for $1 movies. The shows are at 10:00am and 2:00pm. Tickets are available online (CantonGa.gov/our-city/ visit-us/canton-theatre).

June 1: Puss in Boots – The Last Wish

June 8: Encanto

June 15: Strange World

June 22: Wakanda Forever

June 29: Lyle, Lyle Crocodile

Brooke Schmidt is the city councilwoman for Ward 3. 110 Academy Street, Canton. Brooke.Schmidt@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov

Cherokee County School District Announcements

School District, Superintendent Named National Award Finalists

CCSD Earns National Grant for STEM Learning

For a third time, CCSD has been named a national finalist for the Varsity Brands’ Spirit of St. Jude recognition. Only two finalists were named from nominees nationwide. The Spirit of St. Jude award, named for the children’s research hospital, honors schools and school districts that engage the majority of their students in fundraising for the charity, which is a major recipient of Varsity Brands’ philanthropy.

As a Varsity Brands “Team Up” for St. Jude school district, the CCSD community has raised $350,000 since 2016 to support the hospital. Woodstock HS earned the Spirit of St. Jude Award in 2022.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower has been named a finalist for the 2023 Most Spirited Superintendent Award, which honors leaders for exemplary commitment to “elevating and improving the student experience.” He is one of only seven superintendents nationwide selected as a finalist. It is the second time Dr. Hightower has made the finalist list for the national honor, having previously been recognized in 2020.

Award winners in both categories will be announced this month.

Two Class of 2023 Seniors Win National Merit Special Scholarships

Nandita Bipin of River Ridge HS has been selected as a winner of the Truist Scholarship, sponsored by Truist Financial Corporation. Rhiannon Crisante of Cherokee HS has been selected as a winner of the ADP Henry Taub Memorial Scholarship, sponsored by ADP Foundation. They are among the 800 distinguished high school seniors nationwide to win special scholarship awards financed by corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations.

Selection is made based on review of academic records and college entrance exam scores, leadership and service in school and the community, and personal essays and letters of recommendation. Other factors also may apply such as a winner’s parent being employed with the corporation, living in the corporation’s service area, or planned pursuit of a specific career or college major.

The district is one of only 10 school systems nationwide to earn the 2023 Make a Change grant from the national Argument Driven Inquiry educational organization. The $75,000 grant will fund “Future Ready Graduates: Elementary Integration with ADI,” an expansion of CCSD’s successful argument driven inquiry program (ADI), already in place for grades 6-12, into elementary schools to further enhance science and math instruction. The research-based instructional model increases students’ math and science knowledge while also developing their writing, presentation, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.

The grant will be used to fund training and materials for fourthand fifth-grade math and science teachers to begin using the ADI instructional model. Six CCSD elementary schools currently are piloting the ADI model, and the grant will fund bringing the program to all elementary schools.

New

Principal Announced for Cherokee HS

Andy Hall, Cherokee HS’s new principal and a 19year educator, was appointed to his current role after serving five years as an assistant principal at River Ridge HS. He previously taught English at Cherokee HS, Woodstock HS, and Polaris Evening Program and coached cross country, track, and basketball. His numerous accolades include the Superintendent’s Game Changer Award for Instructional Leadership, Woodstock HS Teacher of the Year, and Woodstock HS STAR Teacher.

Help MUST Ministries Feed Thousands of Children This Summer

“Few things are as gripping as thousands of hungry children right here in our area. We must help,” said MUST Ministries President and CEO Dr. Ike Reighard. “The children are counting on us. As a community, we can’t let them go hungry.”

For many children living in poverty, the free and reduced meals received during the school year are the only meals available to them. For 28 years, MUST Ministries has helped to fill the hunger gap in June and July through its Summer Lunch program. Last year, the program provided more than 6,370 children with 544,450 meals in just nine weeks. The goal is to serve just as many children this year, if not more. The program feeds children in eight counties: Bartow, Cherokee, Cobb, Douglas, Fulton (north and south), Gwinnett, Paulding, and Pickens.

Nandita Bipin

Rhiannon Crisante

City of Canton Hosts Succeeding as a Supervisor Training Program

Leaders from across the county joined together at the City of Canton to participate in a leadership training class. Over the course of five weeks, Carrie T. Hamilton, from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia, instructed students in the “Succeeding as a Supervisor” course. Twentynine participants attended on behalf of the City of Canton, the City of Woodstock, and Cherokee County.

The introductory five-day program was developed to provide the knowledge and skills one would need to be effective in their role as a supervisor. The ideal participant for the training is a supervisor who has been in his or her job two years or less, someone who is not currently a supervisor but is interested in developing those skills, or a long-term supervisor with no formal supervisor training. Course topics include building trust, performance evaluation, leading teams, handling conflict, and planning and delegating.

Participants are provided with a certificate of completion at the conclusion of the training program and leave with the foundational knowledge and skills to succeed as a supervisor. The City of Canton plans to host another opportunity to complete the program in fall 2023.

“Our supporters and volunteers make this critical program possible,” said Reighard. “The number of children we serve continues to grow each summer, particularly in this post-pandemic environment when poverty rates have skyrocketed.”

Specifically, children will receive five breakfasts and five lunches, plus drinks and snacks. The most significant pieces of the Kids’ Kits are the entrees.

Items needed can be found at MustMinistries.org/summerlunch. There is also an Amazon Wish List at Amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ls/FVDS0A574YBD?returnFromLogin=1. Please deliver or ship your items to MUST Donation Center, 1280 Field Parkway, Marietta, GA 30066, Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00am-5:00pm. Please label your donation “MUST Summer Lunch.”

City of Canton employees graduating from this training include (L-R) Andria James, David Floyd, Clint Jeans, Sgt. Mary Turner, Ms. Carrie Hamilton, Brittany Chambers, Audrey Musil, Sgt. Jesse Hamilton, Capt. Matt Baldwin, and Capt. Jeff Tucker. Not pictured: Alejandra Cortes-Kull, Jon Warrix, Karen Murphy, Kristin Norton Green, Cpl. Matthew Naliwajka, Cpl. Ryan Mueller, and Sam Snel

20th Annual Kentucky Derby Day

History Cherokee’s largest fundraising event of the year, the Kentucky Derby Day, was a galloping success! The event, held on May 6 at the Mill on Etowah, allowed attendees to gather and cheer on the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby while supporting the mission of History Cherokee.

From the big hats that were atop the ladies’ heads during the Hat Parade and Contest to the bold bourbons available for tasting, and the fun pony pull competition, History Cherokee successfully raised more than $55,000 to aide in supporting educational programming and historic preservation efforts throughout Cherokee County.

5th Annual Cherokee Student Film Festival Celebrates High School Filmmakers

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), in partnership with the Cherokee County School District’s (CCSD) Audio/Video Technology and Film (AVTF) educators, announced the winners of the 5th annual Cherokee Student Film Festival as part of a live screening and awards presentation held at Sequoyah HS's Skip Pope Stadium. Student films were screened on the Jumbotron, as more than 200 audience members cheered on a record 25 groups of student filmmakers from across the county.

With strict parameters designed to simulate production requirements, 13 groups of students met criteria for judging. Qualifying submissions were judged by regional post-secondary film instructors Dr. James Hamilton (University of Georgia), Steven Hames (Berry College), Meredith Muse (Chattahoochee Technical College), along with Brent Lambert-Zaffino (Peaberry Film Festival founder), Richard Tavernaro (Cobb International Film Festival director), Justin Webb (media producer), and retired CNN Control Room Director Mark Hylback.

Awards were issued based on the judges’ total scores in the following categories: Best Cinematography, Best Sound Quality, Best Use of Prop, Best Use of Line, and Best of Show. Festival attendees were able to cast votes in the Audience Choice category.

AND THE WINNERS ARE:

“I'm not a Psychopath” Best of Show, Best Use of Prop, Best Cinematography, Best Sound Quality, Best Use of Line, and Audience Choice Award

Created by Sequoyah HS’s (L-R) Noah Popp, Justin Clark, Lauren Turnage, and Ava Roberts

“The First Day of Spring” Runner up Best of Show and Best Use of Line

Created by Creekview HS’s Logan Carr, Jackson Estapa, and Chloe Feibus

“Bound” — 3rd place Best of Show

Created by Etowah HS’s Sophia Berry, Marissa Migneco, and Kaili Phillips

“Growing Older” — Audience Choice Award

Created by Sequoyah HS’s Aidan Murphy and Kayla Murphy

(L-R) Aaron Childers (film educator, Cherokee HS), Molly Mercer (COED Film Project manager), Linda Yunker (film educator, Etowah HS), Brad Mann (film educator, Sequoyah HS), Ashley Pruitt (film educator, Creekview HS),

Not pictured: James Dinsmoor (film educator, River Ridge HS)

“The Movie” — Audience Choice Award

Created by Cherokee HS’s Mackenzie Glover, Daniel Reilly, Hunter Schwartz, and Hunter Tadin

To learn more about film in Cherokee and to view the 2023 Cherokee Student Film Festival winning entries, visit CherokeeGa.org/film-media.

and Jeff Wagner (film educator, Woodstock HS).

BY JULIE SENGER

Fun Summer Reading

Thekids are out of school, and the first official day of summer is June 21. Summertime reading is one of life’s great pleasures! Adults can be found poolside, at the beach, in the park, or on airplanes headed to their vacation destinations reading everything from nonfiction self-help books to lighthearted romance novels. Students on summer break can finally enjoy the luxury of choosing their own reading material instead of worrying about completing class reading assignments. If you or your child are looking for some book suggestions, check out these two options, both written by Cherokee County authors.

Learning By Living: A Collection of Poems, by Zafira Hudani, covers topics such as nature, people, God and spirituality, holidays, and life lessons. Those who are intimidated by the thought of reliving their experiences in past high school or college literature classes, trying to decipher epic-long prose poems, dense language, complex rhyme schemes, or stanzas full of complicated literary devices need not fret. Hudani’s poems are very accessible, straightforward, short musings based on her personal experiences, which she hopes will inspire readers to take a closer look at their surroundings and see things from a fresh perspective.

Walter, by Sara V. Robinson, is a children’s book based on a true story about a dog that experiences his very own coming-of-age story after jumping over the backyard fence of the only home he has ever known, getting lost, and eventually ending up at the pound. Will Walter ever find his forever home? You’ll need to read the book to find out. This bilingual edition contains both an English and Spanish version of the story. Animal advocates of all ages will appreciate how the author explores the issues of pet abandonment and responsible pet ownership.

Providing a Patient-Tailored Approach to Pediatric Dentistry

Miles Mazzawi (Dr. Miles) and Anthea Drew Mazzawi (Dr. Drew), the first pediatric dentists in Canton, opened Cherokee Children’s Dentistry 16 years ago. The practice takes pride in providing comprehensive, individualized, preventative, therapeutic, and oral health care for children from infancy through their late teen years, including patients with special health care needs.

Drs.

“We are a pediatric dental practice, here to treat the unique dental needs of your children,” Dr. Miles explains. “We are an owner-operated practice, and we are focused on offering relationship-based dental care where we get to know each child and his or her parents. Often in corporate-owned offices, you find a higher volume practice with less doctor/ patient interaction. Here, we love getting to know our patients. We’ve enjoyed watching many of them grow up.”

“Our commitment is to provide your child with the best possible dental health care, in a warm, caring, and FUN environment. We want your children to enjoy coming to the dentist, as they learn the importance of oral care and overall dental health,” Dr. Miles adds.

Why did the Mazzawis choose to practice pediatric dentistry?

“We love children,” Dr. Drew says. “We have twin nine-year-old daughters, Anne and Mary. When they had their first dental cleanings, each reacted differently to the experience — like all our patients. Every child is unique with individual needs and preferences, and good pediatric dentists are astute at improvising and tailoring the visit to fit the child’s personality.”

Some children are anxious about going to the dentist. If they have a negative experience, it can carry over into adulthood and result in years of neglect.

“Our patients love coming to see us, which is a goal we have worked hard to achieve. We spend time paying attention to the children’s individual interests and developing a rapport with each one to make their visit a fun experience. This helps the kids develop good oral health care, which usually means they will have great dental habits for life,” says Dr. Miles.

We are happy to be growing our little dental family

Dr. Miles and Dr. Drew are excited about expanding their dental family. Dr. Kristin Piche joined the practice in 2020 after completing her pediatric dental residency at the Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Abbey Tadros recently became part of the practice after completing her residency at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Dentistry. These new dentists enhance the great dental care that is already being provided.

“Dr. Piche and Dr. Tadros have been amazing additions, providing the same level of care that our patients and families have come to expect. They also bring new and young energy to our team. It’s been really fun,” says Dr. Drew.

How does Cherokee Children’s Dentistry make going to the dentist fun?

“Our office is both cheerful and calming, with murals on the walls and TVs above every chair. We use funny nicknames, such as calling cavities ‘sugar bugs,’ and we are well-versed in the things that interest kids including the most popular movies and TV shows,” Dr. Miles says. “We find out what each child likes and tailor our approach to that. We talk to them about their hobbies and extracurricular activities. Everything is geared toward making the child feel comfortable, relaxed, and engaged.”

The practitioners also make sure to include the children’s parents in the doctor/patient relationships they develop.

“One of the neat things about pediatric dentistry is that parents are the third side of the triangle that make up the doctor/patient relationship. Apprehensive parents can shape their children’s experiences. There is nothing scary here! We develop a solid relationship with all parents, so they know that we’re going to take excellent care of their children. We aim to build trust with our patients, so they will feel comfortable here. That goes for their parents, too.” Dr. Drew says.

Advice for parents regarding the oral and dental health care of children

Cavities are on the rise. Toothaches are the number one reason a child visits the school nurse. Ultimately, this is a preventable epidemic — prevention is key. Limit your child’s sugar intake, visit the dentist regularly, and stress the importance of brushing, and flossing. Parents can be a dentist’s best allies and biggest advocates.

Cherokee Children’s Dentistry is pleased to provide the absolute best individualized pediatric dental care in Canton with a “mom and pop,” homestyle approach.

“We look forward to many more years of engaging parents and children, teaching the value of good dental care, and winning over many more kids to dentistry. We give 110% of our love and attention to our patients, and we want theirs, too! We want to show them how much fun it can be to visit the dentist and practice good oral health care habits,” says Dr. Drew.

Dr. Drew and Dr. Miles (center) surrounded by some of their happy patients.

Senator Speaks

2023 Legislative Session Recap

By State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, MD

The2023 legislative session consisted of a lot of excitement and controversy, but many accomplishments were made. We were able to achieve several of our caucus priorities, both legislative and budgetary.

Highlights of the 2023 Legislative Session

Taxes — Because of the robust economic recovery in Georgia, we were able to return $1 billion to taxpayers in addition to a rebate of property taxes. As instructed by a bill passed in 2022, a review of all tax credits is underway.

Electric Vehicles — For the first time, a template was passed for EV charging stations in preparation for the increased need for infrastructure for these vehicles.

Increased Truck Weights — This was a controversial topic due to balancing the needs of farmers and the infrastructure burden of weight on our roads and bridges. A compromise bill was passed.

Literacy — Literacy was a major focus due to the impact of 3rd grade reading levels on later outcomes in life including graduation rates, poverty, and interaction with the criminal justice system. Special training for teachers will be developed, and a uniform standard established. Funding was placed in the budget for this initiative. Learning loss grants were also funded in the budget to address the gaps that occurred during the pandemic.

Election Law — A bill was passed to prevent outside funding of elections by local election boards. All outside funds will go through the State Election Board.

School Choice — A vigorous discussion about school options for children in failing schools was held. This voucher bill passed the Senate but failed in the House.

Crime — Several bills on tougher penalties for criminal street gangs were brought forward and will still be in play next session. Security grants will help schools develop mandatory safety plans to be submitted to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.

Foster Care and Adoption — We were able to pass a package of five bills to streamline various aspects of juvenile justice for kids in the foster care system. We will have a study committee this summer to explore solutions for the many problems in our foster care and adoption systems.

Maternal Mortality — A pilot program for remote fetal monitoring was passed, and plans are underway for home visits for pregnant moms. We also passed an extension of TNAF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) benefits for pregnant moms.

Mental Health — Mental health was a hot topic, and the big bill on this subject did not pass, but a portion of the bill did pass that requires that state agencies work together on data related to mental health.

Certificate of Need — This was another controversial issue, and those bills did not pass but are still alive for next session.

For more information about specific bills, please email Kay.Kirkpatrick@senate.ga.gov.

Kay Kirkpatrick, MD, represents District 32, which includes Canton and Woodstock. 404-656-3932. SenatorKayKirkpatrick.com

FYZICAL THERAPY & BALANCE CENTERS

FYZICAL Aims To Stop America From Falling

Besides offering some of the most advanced physical therapy in the area, FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers are continuing their mission, along with other FYZICAL locations across the country, “to stop America from falling.”

The business, originally known as SOAR Physical Therapy, provides orthopedic and sports medicine therapies. FYZICAL regularly partners with other health care providers and schools to provide treatment to athletes when physical therapy is needed. Since transforming into the first FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in north metro Atlanta in 2016, the company has been dedicated to becoming one of the nation’s leaders in balance and vestibular rehabilitation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S., making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group. FYZICAL’s owners, Dr. Burt Stevens, PT, and Brian Stevens, MHA, believe they have the answers to begin changing these statistics.

“We have worked hard to assemble a dedicated team of FYZICAL therapists and support staff to be able to deliver exceptional care and service to our community. We are so proud and thankful for our staff and their commitment to our mission and vision,” says Brian.

In April, FYZICAL opened a new location in the Towne Lake area, which makes for a total of three FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Woodstock and one in Marietta, all owned by Dr. Burt and Brian.

protocols for treating patients with balance deficits is unique,” Brian says.

Is falling an inevitable part of aging?

“Having a fall does not have to become a part of life, as we age,” says Dr. Burt. “Falls can be prevented. Whether you are an individual worried about your parents or grandparents, a primary care physician or neurologist looking for a resource for these patients, or anyone in health care who treats clients with balance deficits, please know that we have the technology and training to make a difference.”

Hickory Flat 6884 Hickory Flat Highway Woodstock, GA 30188 770-704-8244

Towne Lake 4477 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock, GA 30189 678-880-9597

Other than how its name

is

spelled, what sets FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers apart from other therapy clinics?

“We can argue about whether our team of therapists and support staff are better than others but can confidently say our technology and the training FYZICAL offers exclusively to its therapists are above all others. Combining this with FYZICAL’s proprietary

“We have all seen the unfortunate decline where individuals become less independent,” Dr. Burt continues. “They begin using a cane, then a walker, and then are moved into assisted living. This timeline does not have to become everyone’s life story. Help us prevent these life changing events. Help us keep people safe and independent. We have the knowledge and technology to teach people how to move freely and safely with confidence, so they can live the lives they desire. Help us stop America from falling.”

Please visit the website for additional locations around the Atlanta area and in other states. Most insurance plans will cover these services.

Trickum 3342 Trickum Road, Suite D Woodstock, GA 30188 678-401-5772

Marietta 709 Canton Road NE, Suite 120 Marietta, GA 30060 770-792-7522

Fyzical.com

HARMONY ORTHODONTICS

Harmony Orthodontics is a private practice that was founded in 2021 by Dr. Michelle Mathieson, so she can better serve patients with the evolving technology in the orthodontic field. The office is beautifully designed to create a relaxing environment and positive orthodontic experience. The team at Harmony Orthodontics prides itself on getting to know every patient like family and creating lasting relationships.

Harmony Orthodontics provides high-quality care to patients of all ages, both children and adults. To evaluate the growth of the jaws and space for permanent teeth, Dr. Mathieson recommends kids be seen for their first orthodontic exam by age seven. Treatment may not be recommended this young, but oral habits such as extended pacifier use or sucking on fingers or thumbs can cause problems with the teeth and breathing. Having an orthodontist monitor jaw growth and permanent teeth coming in also helps prevent more complicated treatment in the future. Dr. Mathieson will

assess if a child needs an appliance to help with quitting an oral habit or to improve the airway.

Orthodontic technology is always advancing, and Dr. Mathieson is passionate about staying up to date with the latest and greatest options. The office is completely digital including digital patient charts, X-rays, and a scanner, so no more messy molds of your mouth. Treatment is customized for each patient using techniques ranging from metal braces to clear aligners (Invisalign) to braces behind the teeth. Newer technology means more efficient treatment and less time in braces. Additionally, virtual appointments (remote monitoring) allow more freedom for the patient due to fewer in-office visits.

As a busy mom with young, active kids Dr. Mathieson wants things to be effective and convenient for her patients. You can schedule new patient exams from the website

or sign up for a virtual consultation. Harmony

Orthodontics accepts most PPO insurance plans and offers flexible payment options.

When Dr. Mathieson is not creating beautiful smiles in the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, gardening, hiking, and crafting.

To schedule a complimentary exam, please call the office or visit the website.

149 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 2 Canton, GA 30114 770-988-6552

Dr. Michelle Mathieson

PINNACLE ORTHOPAEDICS

Proud To Be the Official Sports Medicine Provider for KSU Athletics

Pinnacle Orthopaedics has been around a long time, and so has Kennesaw State University. KSU has steadily grown in every way, including its participation in athletics, and Pinnacle has been with the school every step of the way. The university has 18 NCAA Division I sports programs, and Pinnacle is involved in all of them.

Pinnacle’s doctors are on the sidelines for every football game, home and away, and every home basketball, lacrosse, and soccer game. Its physicians are on the fields and courts and attend meets and matches. Pinnacle doctors were courtside at this year’s NCAA basketball tournament as well as on the sidelines when KSU’s football team won two Big South Championships.

The official team physicians are Jessica Bilotta, MD; Nicolas Bonnaig, MD; Brandon Burris, MD; and Michael Kuczmanski, MD. However, all of Pinnacle’s doctors are available to treat students and to be on the sidelines of any event.

Pinnacle doctors work closely with KSU athletic trainers in a designated training room on campus. These physicians are very active in the treatment of any sports injury as well as the prevention of even worse damage, and they follow every guideline to make sure each athlete is safe to play. Providing all student athletes with sports physicals and any other necessary medical evaluations to ensure they’re in top shape for their upcoming sports seasons is a big part of the practice’s involvement.

Pinnacle treats all acute sports injuries as well as damage that is caused by overuse. Acute sports injuries are those that are caused by sudden trauma. Some common acute injuries may include contusions (bruising), fractures, sprains, and strains.

The sports medicine specialist team at Pinnacle are all Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeons and are Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine. They cover many other schools, clubs and programs including 4 area high schools.

Pinnacle Orthopaedics has 16 physicians with a wide range of specialties including arthroscopic surgery; total joint replacement; surgery of the foot, hand, or spine; fracture care; pain management; traumatic injury treatment; limb lengthening and deformity repair; and treatment of work- or sports-related injuries. The practice also offers MRIs as well as physical and occupational therapies.

There is an onsite Ambulatory Surgery Center in the Woodstock location for all types of outpatient orthopaedic procedures (including total knee and hip surgery), certain outpatient spine procedures, and all orthopaedic sports-related injuries. The practice has five offices throughout the northwest Atlanta area including two in Cherokee County.

“Pinnacle is pleased to help take care of the amazing student athletes and ensure they are able to perform at the top of their game,” says Dr. Brandon Burris.

Dr. Jessica Bilotta

Dr. Nicolas Bonnaig

Dr. Brandon Burris

Dr. Michael Kuczmanski

By Holly Cummings

Inthe late 1950s, going to Grandma’s house was a real treat for my younger brother and me. She welcomed us with open arms, always, but we went for our own selfish reasons, as only kids will do. She would make large batches of peanut brittle every year for the holidays. She stored them in holiday tins, telling no one where she hid them. We kids would try to find those tins on our visits and hadn’t succeeded so far.

However, one Pentecostal Sunday, Grandma was having a tea party with her church ladies when we stumbled upon something in the attic! That particular Sunday, we were playing quietly, going through old trunks and boxes, listening to the loud chatter below. It was great fun prowling around finding old hats, photos, dresses, magazines, and anything western.

My brother had on his cowboy hat and was shooting pretend pistols at me or other things he picked as targets. Aiming at me, he tripped over an old, stained linen tablecloth. It was wadded up with some boxes in the corner. My brother tugged at the cloth, revealing three holiday tins. WOW! We found the peanut brittle! Smiles lit up our faces.

Quickly, my brother opened one tin, emitting a sweet aroma. We looked at the wax paper linings, seeing golden pieces peeking out. Licking our lips, we grabbed the tasty chunks to pop into our mouths. With gusto, we chewed the heavenly candy, as it melted on our tongues. We dove in for more when my brother slipped on a loose floor tile. He moved it back in place only to find an old stovepipe hole in the floor. In the semidarkness, the light from below filled our eyes, as we looked down. To our surprise, there sat Grandma

in her living room. My brother and I looked at each other in wonderment. We leaned in and listened for a few moments but lost interest, for it wasn’t a world we knew. We wanted more candy!

Reaching for more peanut brittle, something fell on my brother. In a knee-jerk reaction, he flung it at me, causing a large dust cloud to cover me. I sneezed twice and found something on the floor at my feet. There lay Grandma’s old, faded whalebone corset with pink rosettes, garters, and dozens of hooks and eyes. My grandma was from the Victorian era, and this was her uniform for dressing daily. I remember hugging her, feeling those stiff stays at her waist. She always wore one up to her late 60s until she gave it up for her job at a doctor’s office. She wanted comfort and flexibility.

Repulsed, in a split second, my brother grabbed the corset and stuffed it down the hole! We both watched in slow motion as it glided down to Grandma’s lap. Flustered then embarrassed, holding her unmentionable, Grandma looked up, as we ducked back. We clamped our mouths shut trying not to laugh. Suddenly, all the ladies went quiet; teacups hushed. Then, tittering to themselves, the ladies quietly left. The next sound was, “Get down here NOW!”

Cautiously, we peeked around the doorway, looking down seeing Grandpa at the bottom of the stairs with his hands on his hips glaring up at us. We were in trouble. Our grandpa chewed tobacco, so with stained lips and teeth, wagging his finger near our noses, we suffered some spittle and scolding words. We had embarrassed Grandma! In the end, he confided he was going to tell our father what had happened. OH, NOT HIM! We were doomed.

Slowly, we made our way home, for we lived next door. We had no time to make up a story or find an escape route. When we entered the house, our mother said, “Go sit in the living room.” So, we waited for the dreaded car to come up the driveway.

Dad, shouldering his golf clubs, would enter the house heading for the kitchen. Mom usually made a special dinner on Sundays. When Dad got the story, he called, “Kids come here.” Sweating with pounding hearts, we walked slowly into the kitchen to face the inevitable scene.

Dad was at the table, smoking a cigarette. He was blowing little smoke rings while our mother mashed potatoes at the kitchen sink. Astonishingly, Dad began laughing loudly then chuckling over the whole affair. My brother and I looked at each other in disbelief. “What is this?” Dad still laughing some more said, “Go outside and play until time to eat.” We scrambled to the door, wondering what had just happened. At supper, Mom and Dad just smiled at each other and didn’t say a word about our stunt.

As a matter of fact, Grandma became quite popular for a while in her ladies’ group but was a good sport about all of it. Our father enjoyed a little joke on his mother and made sure our story came up, to our chagrin, at future holiday meals. A week later, Grandpa sealed up the hole in the ceiling. He bought a black and white television, the first in the family, and that became our new pastime. No more candy hunts ever again.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SHARED SHORT STORIES WITH US!

We received an entertaining assortment of thoughtful, well written submissions that covered a variety of topics, and we appreciated reading each one. We truly enjoyed “visiting” the succinct worlds you created, which inspired us to feel a wide array of emotions.

Practical Steps for Protecting Senior Adults in Cherokee County

By Rachel Hines and Leyna Pope

InGeorgia, the fastest growing segment of our population is over the age of 60. The Census Bureau estimates that by 2030, older adults will make up 20% of our state population. Sadly, at a time when senior adults should be enjoying their retirement, they have instead become targets of increasingly sophisticated financial scams.

With the proliferation of smart phones, scammers bombard seniors with text messages, emails, and phone calls looking for any way possible to trick them. A common tactic that scammers use is to purport they are from a legitimate organization (such as Netflix, Amazon, PayPal, Microsoft, or even a bank) and send a message indicating there is a problem with an account. If you engage with these types of scammers, they will request money or gift cards to resolve the issue with the account. While requests like these can sound very convincing, they are scams.

If you are concerned that someone is trying to scam you, we have a few suggestions on how to navigate the situation. First, completely disengage. If it’s an email or text message, ignore it. If it’s a phone call, hang up. It’s not rude; it’s prudent. If you think communication might be legitimate, reach out to the organization for confirmation that there is an issue with your account. For example, if you get a message purporting

to be your bank, locate the bank’s phone number on your credit or debit card and give them a call. You could also go into your local branch to confirm there are no issues with your account.

Second, reach out for help from a loved one or trusted friend. These scams are complex. Seniors are not the only people who fall for them. That’s why scammers keep at it. There is no shame if you get caught in a scam. What matters most is getting yourself out of it.

Third, contact local law enforcement and/ or Adult Protective Services (APS). Law enforcement and APS are on the frontlines assisting seniors who have been victimized in a variety of ways, and they frequently deal with financial exploitation. Both law enforcement and APS can help explain the scam and provide resources to prevent any future issues.

If you are the family or friend of seniors, we encourage you to specifically ask them

if they have gotten any suspicious phone calls, emails, or text messages that could be scamming attempts. An additional layer of oversight and open dialogue about financial vulnerabilities are critical in protecting our seniors from bad actors seeking to take advantage. Be open minded, and remember you are there to help, not to judge. Anyone can fall for a scam. We all play a part in protecting the seniors in our community from financial scams, and we encourage you to include these discussions in your everyday conversations with the seniors in your life.

RESOURCES

Adult Protective Services, 1-866-552-4464

Canton Police, 770-720-4883

Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, 678-493-4200

District Attorney’s Office, 770-479-1488

Holly Springs Police, 770-345-5537

Woodstock Police, 678-493-4080

Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger!

Rachel Hines (left) is deputy chief assistant district attorney and Leyna Pope (right) is assistant district attorney for the Special Victims Unit, Office of the District Attorney, Cherokee County. The Special Victims Unit handles the prosecution of crimes involving vulnerable individuals, including elder abuse.

BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Tracy Edge Hume Following Her Instincts and Letting Beauty Emerge

Tracy Edge Hume’s love of creating took flight when a high school teacher introduced her to the world of art. It was this teacher’s guidance that changed her life and inspired her to go to art school, where she developed her passion for sculpting, printmaking, and mixed media. Often sketching throughout the day and working from midnight to early morning, Hume is also dedicated to teaching and guiding developing artists.

Hume’s first love is carving soapstone. Because it is soft, she never knows what each stone will reveal. Veins created by animals, dirt, or leaves might present challenges.

“Sometimes I have a vision, but the stone tells me where it wants to go,” she said. “That’s why I love it so much — it’s going to do what it wants to do. If I see veins, I need to work with the veins.”

Hume begins sculpting using a wood chisel. Challenged by nerve damage, she sometimes uses an air compressor to generate the force needed to make large adjustments or rotary tools to create fine details. Whether working only with hand tools or using some power tools, Hume creates sculptures with graceful curves and intricate lines. No longer blocks of stone, her sculptures flow effortlessly, and

their gleaming surfaces make the pieces tactile as well as visual experiences.

Although printmaking demands thinking in reverse, Hume said it is also freeing because it allows her to experiment with types of paper, layers of color and other materials, and sometimes multiple pulls. Hume’s prints become complex mixed media canvases with fluent lines, multihued palettes, and rich textures that interplay and complement each other.

When printing from a sheet of glass, Hume first applies a solid layer of paint to it. While it is still wet, she uses cardboard, straws, coffee stirrers — anything she comes across — to create visual interest including lines of varying sizes and diverse textures, movement, and energy. Sometimes, she applies pieces of torn paper or adds airy effects by moving the paint with an air compressor. She then lays a sheet of paper on the paint and applies pressure with her hand or a brayer before pulling the paper to reveal the image. Occasionally, she repeats the process, adding colors, strokes, and textures.

When the canvas dries, she enhances the image, using color or wax pencils, ink, pastels, charcoal, or even coffee grounds.

“I always like to bring elements and principles of design together in a pleasing manner. But, for me, it is all about the process,” Hume said. “The process represents the struggles and rewards in life. I never know what might work, so I keep adding and deleting until it all comes together in a manner that will intrigue the viewer.”

To view more of Hume’s work, visit TracyEdgeHume.com or follow her on Instagram @thsoapstone.

Photo courtesy of Joey M. Hume

Putting Life Together

By Rev. Kevin Huff

[InGoodFaith] With Father’s Day approaching, I want to reach out to fathers. As a pastor, I’ve seen lots of families torn apart. It is heartbreaking to see couples walk away from their marriages and even more heartbreaking to see how detrimental it is to their children.

I remember reading a bumper sticker that said, “Having trouble putting life together? Then read the instructions.” Right beside those words was a picture of a Bible, which is God’s instruction manual to mankind.

The Bible instructs us about the importance of turning to Jesus Christ as savior and lord. Some fathers may ask, “Why is that so important?” Well, in Luke 6:46, Jesus asks, “And why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” The reason why so many families are torn apart is because so many fathers refuse to do what the Lord says to do, especially when it comes to leading their families.

In Luke 6:47-49, Jesus goes on to give an analogy of what it looks like when we follow his word, and when we don’t. He said that when we obey his word, it’s like building a house on a rock-solid foundation, and when the flood arose, that house stood because it was on a rock-solid foundation.

On the other hand, Jesus gives the analogy of those who don’t obey his word. He said it’s like building a house without a foundation, and when the flood arose, that house immediately fell, and the ruin of that house was great. The reason why many families in America fall apart is because many fathers refuse to obey the instructions that God has given them.

Psalm 127:1 says, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” Fathers, are you having trouble putting your life together? Please read the instructions — the word of God. My prayer is that all fathers have a happy and blessed Father’s Day. L

Kevin Huff is the pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-213-1690. HopewellBaptist.com