Canton Family Life | June 2024

HEALTH WEALTH

Since the kids are out of school and the first official day of summer is June 20, here’s hoping we all have a little more free time and motivation to get outside and enjoy active pursuits that get us moving, as well as meals that are lighter and more wholesome — especially now that we have access to fresh veggies from local farmers markets or our backyard gardens.

We often hear that without good health, nothing else matters because we can’t enjoy the things that are most important to us — the things that make life worth living. Though I’ve always been pretty active and try to eat nutritious foods most of the time, the older I get, the harder it seems to be to maintain my fitness level. During the past couple of years, the stress of worrying about my health has definitely put into perspective how much I took my wellness for granted when I was younger. Gone are the days when I could eat whatever I wanted and “burn the candle at both ends” to try to do and be “all the things.”

Atomic Habits author James Clear makes a great point that applies to everyone, regardless of age: “If you want a recipe for unhappiness, spend your time accumulating a lot of money and let your health and relationships deteriorate.”

Speaking of money, health, and relationships, be sure to check out this month’s featured list of 20 money-saving tips on pages 20-21. Some of those recommendations can help you maintain your health and nurture your family and friendships more affordably. So, if we gather with friends and loved ones for free activities such as hiking a local trail or playing in one of Cherokee County’s many wonderful parks, we cover all three of those bases. Active Fun + Quality Time + Free = It’s a No-Brainer.

Wishing you a happy and healthy summer,

Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief

PUBLISHER

Family Life Magazines

Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Julie Senger

Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com

ART

Stephanie Bolton

Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com

Tiffany Corn

Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jack Tuszynski

PhotoJack.Net@Gmail.com

SALES/MARKETING MANAGER

David Wright

David@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jyl Craven, Bill Grant, Kevin Huff, Kay Kirkpatrick, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Susan K. Treadaway

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 publishes the only monthly magazines in Cherokee County that reach more than 30,000 readers in print and digital formats — each issue, every month, with more direct-mailed copies sent to Cherokee County homes than any other local magazine.

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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Changes in Attitudes Up Yonder!

By Mayor Bill Grant

Summer will soon be in full swing in the Coolest Small Town in America, and local events and happenings are heating up. Not too many years ago, I used to hear a common complaint that there was “just not enough to do in Canton.” Depending on the person, the comments ranged from not enough music venues to having to drive to other cities for a decent meal, among other grievances.

Fast forward to 2024, and I no longer hear this refrain. Instead, I often hear comments such as, “There are so many things to do around here, I just can’t keep up with all of them.” Yes, attitudes, for the most part, have changed. Many of our residents and business owners couldn’t be happier about the ever-increasing choices they have for events, live music, exceptional culinary experiences, local art, and incomparable outdoor adventure in our parks, on our trails, and those involving the Etowah River. There’s never a dull moment in Canton, and the entertainment and recreational opportunities are endless.

When it comes to events, our hallmark First Fridays are back, and June will feature A1A, the Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band. We’ve come so far in downtown since I worked with Canton Main Street to launch the original First Fridays more than a decade ago. Back in those days, we were lucky to get a couple dozen attendees downtown to hang out without a lot of options for shopping or dining. Today, we easily have more than 5,000 people who attend

to hear great bands, shop at Canton’s many boutiques and retail establishments, or have a “cheeseburger in paradise” from a local food truck vendor or downtown restaurant.

Additionally, Canton’s merchants have added their own events throughout the year — especially this summer. Now, you can attend trivia nights, wine and bourbon tastings, art classes and activities, professional women’s soccer games, live music performances and open mic nights, karaoke, and so much more. There are options for every day of the week, not just weekends.

It’s truly great when a plan comes together like it has with the City of Canton’s Roadmap for Success, but it’s even better when the community embraces it and uses the Roadmap for their own entrepreneurial strategies. Yes, it is hard to keep up with all of the amazing things happening in Canton, but you can always start with ExploreCantonGA.com to check out the calendar of events. And while you’re at it, invite a few friends from “up yonder” to experience an authentically magical destination.

CantonGa.gov

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

Calendar

JUNE

4, 18, & 25

The Summer of Harry! Harry Potter Film Series — All eight films in the Harry Potter series will be shown in order throughout the summer. June showings: 6/4 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, 6/18 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and 6/25 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Tickets are $5 each and go on sale the week before each show. 2:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton, CantonGa.gov

6, 13, 20, & 27

Family Movies — Enjoy family friendly films on the big screen for $1 per person. 6/6 Wonka, 6/13 Megamind, 6/20 The Little Mermaid – Live Action, and 6/27 Frozen 2. 10:00am and 2:00pm, 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.

ONGOING

7 Downtown Canton First Friday: A1A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Bring the whole family for a fun night filled with live entertainment, extended hours for shopping, restaurants, a Kids Zone, food and beverage vendors, and a cruise-in. Please bring a chair. 6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov; ExploreCantonGa.com; CantonGa.gov

8

Cherokee Master Gardeners: Native Perennials — This class will cover planting a natural or formally planned garden with perennials and native plants. The fee is $5 per person. 10:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com

8 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. 4:30-7:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

8 & 9

BIG BAM BOOM: The Music of Hall & Oates Comprised of seasoned musicians from notable and touring professional bands, BIG BAM BOOM presents the music of Hall & Oates with precision and smooth harmonies, resulting in a high-quality, live show. 7:00pm Saturday and 4:00pm Sunday, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

Canton Farmers Market — Saturdays through 8/31. 9:00am12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov; Facebook.com/CantonGAFarmersMarket

Waleska Farmers Market — Thursdays through 9/26. 9:00am1:00pm, Waleska Farmers Market, 8891 Fincher Road, Waleska. 404-805-7468. Facebook.com/WaleskaFarmersMarket

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

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

8-8/31 Ball Ground Farmers Market

Each Saturday through August 31, shop for locally grown and homemade items. 9:00am-1:00pm, Ball Ground Community Center, 250 Civic Drive, Ball Ground. Facebook.com/BallGroundFarmersMarket

9 2nd Annual Strength to Survive Golf Outing — TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation hosts this event, benefiting rural breast cancer patients in Georgia, including Cherokee County. For the fourperson scramble, you can choose your team members or be paired up. Registration is $100 per golfer. 9:00am tee off, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. LRusco@myturningpoint.org

12 & 26

Screen on the Green — Gather on the green for a FREE family movie on the outdoor big screen. See Barbie on 6/12 and Cars on 6/26. 7:00pm-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.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

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.

BINGO for Charity! — Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. 7:30pm Wednesdays/Fridays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Family Moose Center, 278 Moose Loop Road, Canton. 770-479-8300.

14

6th Annual Golfing FORE! the Children — Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, play golf for a great cause. All funds raised support the League’s mission to meet some of the most basic needs for children in Cherokee County. $130 per golfer or $500 per foursome. 7:30am registration and 9:00am shotgun start, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net

13

American Heart Association First Aid and Homeland Security Stop the Bleed Course — Learn basic first aid as well as skills to help someone stop bleeding in the event of an emergency. FREE (donations accepted, $120 total value). 9:00am-3:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station #23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. V7.HFVA.org

14

Wish, en Español — Por favor unete a nosotros para tus peliculas familiares favoritas! Solo $1! 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

19

Fresh Start Mornings — This program features entrepreneurshipgeared educational discussions along with presentations from startups seeking crowd-sourced feedback on challenges they are facing as new business owners. FREE! 9:00am networking and 9:15am program begins, Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org

19

What’s Up Wednesdays

15

3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Presented by the NAACP Chapter of Cherokee County, this event includes live entertainment, a car show, Kids Korner, vendors, food trucks, a health booth, and

This monthly program is designed for children between the ages of 3-7. 11:00am, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-3453288. HistoryCherokee.org

20

World’s Largest Swim Lesson

Join other swimmers at the Oasis along with kids and parents at aquatic facilities across the country and around the globe to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson ever conducted to spread the word that swimming lessons save lives! 12:00-12:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

21

Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10. All proceeds support local seniors and senior veterans. 11:30am1:00pm, The Oaks at Towne Lake, 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

continued on page 8 more. 1:00-5:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 404-692-1617. CherokeeCountyGaNAACP.org

15

Paint-Off — Artists will compete to create a painting within a set time while the audience experiences the creative process and cheers them on. Also, enjoy light refreshments, vibrant music, and a silent auction of paint-off artworks. 6:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

18

Hear, Here! Lecture — Hear Jeff Clemmons, author of Rich’s: A Southern Institution, discuss the 137-year-old Rich’s department store. FREE! 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

Car-B-Que at the Flat — Second Sunday of each month. 10:00am2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/CarBQueAtTheFlat

Minis at The Mill — Wednesdays. 10:00-11:00am, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

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

Friday Night Live Music at The Mill — Fridays. 6:00-8:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

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

Karaoke Night — First Friday of each month. 8:00-10:00pm, The Mill on Etowah/Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

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

Adults With Aging Parents Seminar — Third Thursday of each month. FREE! 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events

LIBRARY EVENTS

continued from page 7

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: ADVENTURE OF THE LOST TREASURE WITH SCIENCE HEROES

June 3, 1:00pm, R.T. Jones

June 7, 11:00am, Ball Ground City Park (250 Civic Drive)

Go on an interactive and exciting STEM adventure that combines the magic of stories with the wonders of science! All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

SUMMER SPA DAY

June 4, 6:00pm, Ball Ground

Adults are invited to create their own spa products. Materials will be provided while supplies last.

MEDICARE 101

June 5, 5:30pm, R.T. Jones

This Medicare educational session is designed to help seniors get their questions answered.

BEST BESTIES CHALLENGE

June 8, 2:00pm, R.T. Jones

Teens are invited to celebrate National Best Friends Day at the library with their besties and complete challenges together to earn the prestigious title of “The Best Besties!”

ADVENTURES IN CHEROKEE COUNTY

EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

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

Angela McDaniel, tourism coordinator at the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, will showcase all the fun and exciting things families can do outdoors in Cherokee County.

DIY SQUISHIES FOR TEENS

June 12, 2:00pm, Ball Ground

Design and paint your own memory foam squishy to take home. Supplies and snacks provided. Registration is required.

HOBBIT PARTY FOR ALL AGES

June 18, 12:00pm, Ball Ground

Enjoy food, games, and crafts for the whole family at this hobbit-themed party. Hobbit attire/costumes are encouraged!

21 Cornhole Under the Lights — Enjoy cornhole with friends. No outside food or drink is allowed, as it will be made available at the event. 6:30pm boards down, 7:30pm bags fly, Legion Field, 160 McClure Street, Canton.

27

AHA CPR/AED Course — Learn the basic lifesaving skills of CPR and how to use an AED to help someone in the event of an emergency at this American Heart Association-certified course. FREE (donations accepted, $75 value). 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station #23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. V7.HFVA.org

28

Classic Film Series: Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds — On the fourth Friday of each month through October, enjoy all your favorite Alfred Hitchcock movies on the big screen for $5 per person. Tickets will be available two weeks before each show. 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

29

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, City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground and 9:30pm fireworks, Ball Ground Community Center, 250 Civic Drive, Ball Ground. 678-454-5075. CityOfBallGround.com

29

Carrollton Jazz Orchestra — Enjoy a concert repertoire that includes favorites such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Sammy Nestico, Mel Lewis, Buddy Rich, Chick Corea, and many other jazz greats. Tickets are $20 each. 8:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov

JULY

4

4th of July in Canton — The American Legion Canton Post will host a patriotic parade in downtown Canton, and a spectacular fireworks show will begin at dusk. 6:00pm (parade), downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton; 9:00pm (fireworks), Riverstone Parkway, Canton. CantonGa.gov

5

Downtown Canton First Friday: CMA Award Winner Mark Wills — Bring the whole family for a fun night filled with live entertainment, extended hours for shopping, restaurants, a Kids Zone, food and beverage vendors, and a cruise-in. Please bring a chair. 6:00-9:45pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov; ExploreCantonGa.com; CantonGa.gov

6

Guardians of the Jukebox — Rock out with this local favorite 80s rock cover band. 7:30-10:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com

7

Lucky Duck Derby — Help raise money for Cherokee County Special Olympics by entering your rubber duck for a chance to win a prize. The first duck to make it around the Oasis lazy river wins! The cost is $5 per duck plus the Oasis admission fee. 1:00-1:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

Reinhardt University Women’s Lacrosse National Championship Victory

The RU Eagles captured their first 2024 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Women’s Lacrosse National Championship title in Savannah, Georgia. With a final score of 18-10, they beat defending champions, Lawrence Tech.

Head Coach Roy Reynolds received the NAIA Coach of the Year Award, and the NAIA named Shelby O’Neil (RU 2024) the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. O’Neil made the all-tournament team along with Jillian Mello (RU 2023 & 24), Anna Marie Gazzo (RU 2024), and Angela Sciacchitano (RU 2024).

Public Engagement Set for Safe Streets Program

Cherokee County, along with the cities of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, and Woodstock, has begun the development of a Safety Action Plan in an effort to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on Cherokee County’s roadways.

Georgia Impact 2024 Season Kicks Off This Month

Georgia Impact is a semiprofessional women's soccer league team, sponsored by the City of Canton and Canton Tourism. The home field is at Cherokee HS, with the season running from June 1 through June 30. Cheer on these talented athletes at their four home games this season! Visit GaImpactWPSL.com for tickets.

The plan is supported by the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a design services agreement with Pond & Company to prepare the action plan.

Built on robust data analysis and public input, the plan will outline strategies for the county, cities, and key partners to work together to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on the roadways throughout Cherokee County.

A community survey is open at PlanningAtPond.com/ cherokee_ss4a for community members to share their insights to help shape the plan. A map activity also is available on the website, allowing stakeholders to denote where they would like to see roadway safety improvements. The survey and map will remain open through the end of August.

In addition to the survey and map activity options, comments can be shared directly with the Safety Action Plan Project Team via the plan website or by contacting Community Development Agency Director Brantley Day at BDay@cherokeega.com.

The USDOT’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program includes grant funding for both planning and implementation projects. Action Plan grants assist communities that do not currently have a roadway safety plan in place to reduce roadway fatalities by laying the groundwork for a comprehensive set of actions. Implementation grants provide funding for communities to enact strategies and projects that will reduce or eliminate transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries.

The Safety Action Plan will be developed through three major project phases. Public meetings will be held later this year coinciding with the completion of Phase 1: Data Collection and Existing Conditions Assessment (anticipated in August 2024) and Phase 2: Develop Action Plan (anticipated in November 2024). The final phase, Phase 3: Plan and Adopt, is expected to be completed in April 2025. Interim planning documents will be posted to the project website to keep the community informed of the process.

Shelby O’Neil (RU-2024), lower left, and her teammates celebrate their victory.

Photo courtesy of Tiffany Taylor and the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association

Cherokee County School District Announcements

2024 Yes I Can Award Winners

The Yes I Can Awards celebrate the achievements of children and youth with exceptionalities. The awards encourage students to seek their highest potential and increase public awareness of the abilities, aspirations, and personal qualities of those with disabilities. Each CCSD elementary school is invited to select one student to receive the Yes I Can Award, based on achievement during the year in one or more of the following categories: academics, the arts, school and community, self-advocacy, and technology.

This Year’s Honorees

Academics — Arnold Mill ES, Everett Hogan; Ball Ground ES STEM Academy, Merry Marbourg; Clark Creek ES STEM Academy, Faizaan Syed; Clayton ES, Paisly Williams; Free Home ES, Banks Alexander; Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy, Darwin Ambrocio Mendez; Indian Knoll ES, Jordan Lewis; Knox ES STEM Academy, JJ Reece; Little River ES, Ryan Nguyen; Macedonia ES, Adrian Shirling; Mountain Road ES, Mary Grace Richert; R.M. Moore ES STEM Academy, Cecilia Pineda-Jimenez; and Sixes ES, Caleb Ragan.

Arts — Avery ES, Cara France.

School and Community — Hickory Flat ES, Caroline Connor and Liberty ES, Ansley Winfield.

Self-Advocacy — Bascomb ES, Lilly Holsinger; Boston ES, William "Liam" Thompson; Carmel ES, Isaiah Law; Holly Springs ES STEM Academy, Olivia Croft; Johnston ES, Madison Byrd; Oak Grove ES STEAM Academy, Christopher Molino; and Woodstock ES, Avery Becker.

Three Seniors Earn National Merit Scholarships

Laura Hand of Creekview HS and Livana and Valor Lekas of Sequoyah HS are among the top 2,500 seniors in the U.S. who were awarded a $2,500 scholarship by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. They and their fellow Merit Scholar designees were selected from more than 15,000 finalists who made it through the initial rigorous selection process for the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Cherokee HS Student Earns Georgia Award of Excellence

Senior Reid Glover earned the award presented by the Georgia Department of Education to recognize graduating students who overcome special needs to achieve academic and/or extracurricular accomplishments.

Reid’s teachers praise his dedication to learning, especially his talents for writing and visual art. He has excelled in art classes of increasing challenge, culminating in his participation this year in Advanced Placement (AP) 2D Art. He’s a member of the Ambassador Club, Art Club, and National Art Honor Society.

Creekview HS Student Advances to National Business Skills Competition

Merit Scholars are selected based on their accomplishments, skills, and potential for college success. The selection committee is made up of college admissions officers and high school counselors who review records submitted by finalists and their high schools including difficulty of courses and grades earned, college-entrance exam scores, contributions and leadership in school and community activities, an essay written by the finalist, and a recommendation written by a high school official.

Senior Olivia Canada earned first place in the job interview contest at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state leadership conference recently held in Atlanta. She now advances to the national FBLA competition in Orlando this summer.

This is Canada’s second state championship win in a job interview skills contest. She previously earned first place in the contest at the DECA Student Marketing, Management, and Entrepreneurship Association’s state conference and advanced to international competition.

Teacher Chris Jeffreys is the sponsor of the school’s FBLA chapter.

Laura Hand

Livana Lekas

Reid Glover

Olivia Canada

Valor Lekas

Canton’s City Engineer Named to Top 100 in Engineering Industry

City of Canton City Engineer Bethany Watson was recently named as part of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Engineering in Georgia by Engineering in Georgia Magazine. She also recently celebrated a decade with Team Canton.

Watson oversees capital improvement projects, water/sewer infrastructure, transportation, and land development. With more than 15 years of municipal engineering experience, she excels in securing grant funding, winning over $10 million in the last five years for diverse projects including transportation and park infrastructure. She spearheaded Canton’s inaugural sustainability initiative, the downtown parking deck, which features EV charging stations and a solar canopy to offset City Hall’s electricity costs.

Two Unique Local Athletes Gain National Notoriety

 DAVID FRIEDBERG

A record-breaking javelin throw in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) qualified Friedberg for the U.S. Olympic Trials. At the recent Berry Field Day Invitational in Rome, Georgia, he threw 76.08 meters, which equals nearly 250 feet. What’s unique about Friedberg? Until he attended Reinhardt University in Cherokee County (class of 2024), he had never touched a javelin.

Headliners for Canton’s River Rock Music Fest Announced

On July 26 & 27, the City of Canton will take over the gorgeous riverside Etowah River Park for the two-day River Rock Music Fest — a weekend of music, food, and fun!

The 2024 Olympic Trials take place this month in Eugene, Oregon. Whether or not Friedberg makes it to the Paris Games in July, he already has his eye on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and plans to continue training.

 DEBBIE BLOUNT

On a beautiful morning this past April, Blount teed off in her final collegiate tournament. She competed in three full rounds over two days in the Appalachian Athletic Conference championship. What’s unique about Blount? At age 65, she’s the oldest competitive studentathlete in Reinhardt University's history, and she proudly represented RU on and off campus over the past four years.

In her three years as an undergraduate (class of 2023 & 2024), Blount achieved a 4.0 GPA, won the nontraditional Student of the Year Award, and was featured by People magazine, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, NBC, and 3rd Act magazine, to name a few. She humbly notes her proudest accomplishment as being awarded the Kim Moore Spirit Award from the Women's Golf Coaches Association in 2022.

Local country music artist Bryce Leatherwood, the winner of season 22 of The Voice, will hit the stage at 8:00pm on July 26. Popular 90s country music artist Mark Chestnutt will close out the Music Fest on July 27, by taking it back to the classics.

Born and raised in Woodstock, Leatherwood competed on the NBC hit television show The Voice and was crowned the Season 22 winner. He has since moved to Nashville where he has been songwriting and recording for a project on Universal Music Group Nashville/Republic Records. His first single, "The Finger," is out now. Leatherwood continues to perform live shows, including opening several tour dates for Dwight Yoakum.

Critics have hailed Chesnutt as a classic country singer of the first order. With 14 No. 1 hits, 23 top 10 singles, four platinum albums, and five gold records to his credit, Chesnutt marches on to preserve and honor the splendid works of the genre’s forefathers, George Jones and Waylon Jennings, to bring music from the honky tonks right back to where country music began.

For more information or questions about River Rock Music Fest, visit ExploreCantonGA.com.

Bethany Watson

David Friedberg

Debbie Blount

DavidBy Jennifer Paire

The best views are Outback Celebrates 20 Years

Berglund could not wait to enjoy the energy efficiency, security, and low-maintenance elegance of having custom replacement windows installed in his home.

But what excited him the most was the prospect of a good night’s sleep.

“I live on a busy street — and on Friday and Saturday nights, the kids like to let everyone know how loud their vehicles are,” said Berglund, whose Acworth home was built in 1966 and features four floor-to-ceiling single-pane windows. “I’ve been looking at these virgin vinyl windows for years, and they’re very solid, double-paned, and give some soundproofing. They should cut the outdoor noise down by more than half.”

Woodstock-based Outback Windows has delivered relief to homeowners throughout north Atlanta and surrounding areas since 2004, installing custom-built replacement windows that stop drafts, improve power bills, keep families secure, and elevate curb appeal and home value. According to online articles by home renovation industry sites, the return on investment for window replacement ranges from 70-85%.

“What people really want and enjoy having is products that are fully customizable,” said Kevin Winstead, director of sales for the family-owned Outback Windows and Outback Deck, Inc. “Most contractors offer a stock window through a store like Lowe’s or Home Depot, so they don’t get to decide the features they have. We offer a free consultation and inspection of the current windows, which helps us inform homeowners of the condition of their windows: whether there’s rot, draft, window leakage, or seal failure that traps moisture on the inside of the windows.”

Educating homeowners about window technology and its affordability comes easily to Winstead.

“People don’t realize their windows are mostly made from recycled vinyl because nobody tells them that. Recycled vinyl has a better price point, but it is made from melted down plastic that discolors easily and bows and sags after exposure to intense Georgia heat and wear and tear,” Winstead explained. “When people see this, they think vinyl is a cheap plastic. If they have a consultant come out and explain there are different types of vinyl, they become informed about virgin vinyl, which hasn’t been melted down multiple times and has a lifetime warranty.”

Top-Notch Replacements

Now celebrating its 20th year in business, Outback Windows is a top-rated window contractor known for stellar customer service and attention to detail. Outback’s most recommended window replacements are made with virgin vinyl.

“It’s 100% PVC and has never been used to create anything else,” said Winstead. “The reason people enjoy this is because it's very strong and very energy efficient. It’s an insulator instead of a conductor, and it’s maintenance-free. Virgin vinyl provides the longest warranty in the industry — lifetime.”

Outback Windows consultants measure windows in a home, and once the homeowner chooses replacement windows, the installation team visits to confirm measurements and plan the next steps.

“I renovate homes, and I know the difference between what a builder puts in and what a good window is,” said Berglund, whose brick home leaves little room for error. “Their installation guy went to great pains to be sure they measured everything.”

(L-R) John Gwaltney and Bryan Miller, co-owners of Outback Windows

Improving More Than the View

Installing beautiful, low-maintenance vinyl windows with the look and feel of stained wood put Outback Windows on the map locally.

“If someone has a colonial-style home with stained wood, our window — even though it is vinyl or fiberglass — has a textured look that we can match to their stain,” said David Barnes, marketing manager for Outback Windows and Outback Deck, Inc. “It’s an overlay or pattern put over the windows that is textured to look like wood, then we stain it.”

One of the newest trends in window design is black on black.

“Black is a color that can go with everything, and it has more of a clean and modern look on the home,” added Outback’s Winstead.

“I’d say one of the biggest trends is getting rid of grids, the bars on the glass, and going fully clear. That just maximizes the amount of natural light coming into a room, and it gives homeowners a more picturesque view of their backyards.”

Whatever the need, Outback offers great financing on window replacements. For more information about the type of windows they offer, visit OutbackDeck.com.

Like Outback Windows, its sister company, Outback Deck, Inc., offers free deck inspections and quotes for outdoor living deck projects. For more information, visit OutbackDeck.com.

Community Partner

The Cherokee County 911 Foundation officially announces its formation with a resolute mission to support, advocate, and advance Cherokee County E 9-1-1. As the voice of 9-1-1, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to making a lasting impact through initiatives including a dispatcher emergency support fund, public awareness campaigns, continuing education focusing on certifications and employee training, along with support for the mental and physical well-being of Cherokee County’s E 9-1-1 employees. The Community Outreach Unit’s already successful E 9-1-1 efforts will be expanded through the Foundation’s efforts.

“The goal is always to leave something better than you found it, and the Foundation and its mission ensure that we do just that for both current and future communications officers in Cherokee County,” said Cherokee County E 9-1-1 Deputy Director Alice Fennell.

Cherokee County E 9-1-1 is the heartbeat of public safety in our community, answering all calls for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, law enforcement for our municipalities — Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Waleska, and Woodstock as well as City of Woodstock Fire Department, the Cherokee County School District Police, and Reinhardt University Public Safety.

When you dial 911 in Cherokee County, the communication officer on the other end of the line becomes your calm voice of reason. They are the initial first responder who is trained to guide you through emergencies, ensuring the right type of help arrives swiftly. Their investment in your safety begins the moment you hear, “Cherokee County 911, what is the location of your emergency?”

“Every time our team answers the phone, they make a difference in someone’s life. My team is the voice on the other end of the line, the unseen hero giving you lifesaving instructions, controlling the chaos, and giving you their heart no matter what the situation is,” said Cherokee County E 9-1-1 Director Shane Bonebrake.

The Cherokee County 911 Foundation’s Founding Board of Directors is comprised of passionate community servant leaders who champion public safety. Their unwavering dedication will ensure that the organization operates with transparency, integrity, and purpose. Their immense pride in their community is a direct correlation to their support of Cherokee County E 9-1-1, which was recently named Georgia’s 2024 911 Center of the Year.

“The organization is designed to celebrate our amazing public safety communication

officers. They exemplify excellence in making sure all 911 calls are answered. The Foundation is extremely honored to support this exceptional team,” said Foundation President Lori Flink.

To learn more about and/or support your award-winning E 9-1-1 center and the amazing work they do, visit the website, follow them on social media, and support their efforts by becoming a Heartbeat Partner when you donate $9.11, which allows these public servants hearts to beat on your behalf.

Viktoryia Dubovis met with Dispatcher William Yancy to thank him for giving her precious time with her mother. If you have a heartwarming local 911 story to share, please contact Cherokee County 911 Foundation.

E 9-1-1’s Ruby Dawn

Cherokee County’s E 9-1-1 team

2024 Legislative Session Highlights

By State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, MD

The2024 Legislative Session was very successful. A total of 242 bills passed both chambers out of the thousands that were filed.

Several tax bills passed, resulting in a reduction of the state personal income tax, corporate tax, and a cap on annual property tax increases. In addition to refunds in the last two years, the legislature has been decreasing taxes every year during this robust economy. I passed a bill that allows Cherokee citizens to vote on raising the senior school tax exemption. With a budget surplus due to good conservative leadership by Gov. Brian Kemp and other state leaders, Georgia is in an enviable position.

Public safety gets a lot of emphasis at the Capitol, and there were many bills passed supporting our law enforcement officers, notably a salary increase. There were also bills strengthening our laws on trafficking and gang activity as well as two bills on enforcement of immigration laws by cracking down on sanctuary cities and mandating that our sheriffs work with federal immigration officials. So many of

our crime problems and drug problems are related to the massive amount of fentanyl crossing our borders, which especially affects Georgia’s young people. We also passed a bill restricting land purchases near military installations by our adversaries.

As usual, education got significant attention. Teachers and other school personnel got another raise. We fully funded the Quality Basic Education formula for our schools again and increased resources for school safety and student mental health. We expanded funding for pre-K, understanding that early childhood literacy is a predictor of future success. We also passed school choice for families in failing school districts. Fortunately, we have excellent schools in Cherokee, so this will not change anything for our school district.

We passed legislation about squatting, giving homeowners more protection against people who move into their homes and refuse to leave.

We passed the Certificate of Need reform to help Georgia’s rural hospitals, but

we still have work to do to make this bureaucratic process easier and improve choices for patients.

I was fortunate to pass quite a few bills this year on issues such as foster care, licensure, streamlining and adding transparency to state government, and supporting our military and veteran communities.

We passed the budget on the very last day of the 2024 session. Unlike the federal government, we balance our budget — as our state Constitution mandates.

I am proud to serve Cherokee County and look forward to continuing my work. Please contact my office if you have any questions.

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

By Julie Senger

With the current inflation rates on goods and services, many families are looking for ways to stretch their dollars. Check out the following suggestions to help make your money go a little further.

Bring Your Coffee and Your Lunch From Home.

While occasionally buying a specialty coffee on the way to work and grabbing lunch with coworkers are nice treats, doing so five days a week can equate to spending hundreds of extra dollars each month.

Buy in Bulk.

Big-box membership clubs are great places to stock up on items you know you’ll always need at a more affordable per-unit price. Bonus — you won’t have to think about replenishing products purchased in bulk for a while. 2

Buy Off Season.

For example, if you spot a sales rack of winter coats or Easter/spring dresses in a department store in June, you’ll probably score deep discounts. 3

Host a board/card game night, movie night, or potluck dinner. 6

Streaming services, gym memberships, phone apps, and many other things we sign up for and forget about because “they’re only a few dollars a month” can significantly add up over time. 4

Cancel Unused Memberships and Subscriptions.

Free Local Events.

Options such as concerts performed by local and national touring musicians, art exhibits, festivals, and family-friendly outdoor movies or sporting events shown on community big screens are all popular offerings at this time of year. Be sure to check out Canton Family Life’s Events Calendar on pages 6-8, which contains some free activities close to home. 5 Entertain Family and Friends at Home.

City parks and hiking/biking trails are free and are also a healthy way to spend time with friends and family. Enjoying local lakes, rivers, and state parks usually just requires a nominal parking fee, unless you choose to rent gear such as kayaks, SUPs, tubes, etc.

a Student.

Research beauty or massage therapy schools that offer reduced-price haircuts, skin care, massages, and other services because they allow students to obtain hands-on experience for their future careers.

Having a grocery list and meal planning/prepping will help you avoid impulse purchases at the supermarket and spending money on less healthy (and more expensive) food at a fast-food drive-thru.

Prioritize Repaying High-Interest Debt.

Paying off debts with the highest rates can save you lots of money in interest. Credit cards are usually the biggest culprits (18-28% interest!).

Purchase Second-Hand Clothes and Refurbished or Open-Box Electronics.

Not only is buying secondhand, gently used, or refurbished items less expensive, but it’s also better for the planet because you’re keeping unnecessary waste out of landfills.

Smoking/ Vaping.

*The average smoker/vaper spends more than $2K per year on cigarettes/e-cigarettes, not to mention the cost of extra medical expenses due to having more health problems.

*Sources — KSBW.com/article/study-vaping-costs-per-year/ 40082883; TruthInitiative.org/research-resources/targetedcommunities/economics-tobacco-what-if-pack-cigarettes-cost10#:~:text=Pack-a day%20smokers%20spend%20an%20average %20of%20$2%2C193%20a%20year%20on%20cigarettes

Make sure you’re not paying for coverage you don't need. It also helps to comparison shop to ensure you’re getting the best rate for the coverage you do need.

Are you being charged for things you shouldn’t be? Have rates increased since the last time you carefully read your bill? Could you get the same or better service elsewhere for less?

If you keep an eye on how much you spend on non-necessities such as dining out or online shopping, you’re less likely to overspend in those categories.

Using discount travel apps and sites, choosing a destination that avoids the need for expensive airfare, or even becoming a tourist in your hometown are examples of ways vacationers can save

It can take a little work to collect coupons or set up and keep track of inputting information on apps and websites that offer cash back or rewards, but not making the minimal effort is leaving money on the table.

You may be surprised at the number of free resources, classes, craft nights, book clubs, and other learning or entertainment options that are available at your modern-day local library. Check out SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org to find a branch near you and to view their activity calendar.

Save money by learning how to make or repair things yourself by watching YouTube tutorials. You can learn anything from how to crochet a scarf to how to perform minor vehicle repairs and maintenance tasks. The possibilities are endless.

Middle Age and Beyond How Criminals Target the Aging Population

By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway

Throughout our lives, many of us have been educated on important safety tips for how to avoid becoming victims of crimes, such as: do not carry large sums of cash, be sure to walk in groups, and always be aware of our surroundings.

Modern crimes involving financial fraud and scams can be hard to avoid, even when we do our best to take preventative measures. Cybercriminals are adept at finding ways to hack into our personal information and use that information to steal from us. Data breaches at major institutions leave us vulnerable to identity theft. A suspicious email link might be a phishing attempt. Credit card information can be stolen through card skimmers.

Besides cybercrimes, we must also be watchful of scams. An item for sale online, priced exceedingly low, is likely a scam, but many people fall for it while searching for a great deal. A phone call from someone claiming to be a person of authority may trick you into paying a fine you don’t owe. An appeal from a criminal posing as a loved one with a financial emergency may lead the unsuspecting to purchase gift cards. A romance scam targeting a mourning widow may result in an innocent person losing her life’s savings.

As you approach (or reach) retirement age, be aware that these criminals will intentionally target you because they think you are less wary, more trusting, and have more money at your disposal.

Throughout the year, the District Attorney’s Office reaches out to the community to provide education on financial fraud, scams, and elder abuse.

Earlier this year, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Rachel Hines of the Special Victims Unit delivered a presentation called “What To Do When Criminals Target Seniors” to approximately 150 attendees at a Cherokee County Senior Services Silver Roamers meeting. We also participated in the 17th annual Senior Extravaganza. This month, we will be speaking at Soleil Laurel Canyon, a 55+ community, about common scams affecting older adults.

June 15 Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Most often perpetrated by family members or caregivers, crimes against senior citizens can range from abuse to financial crimes. Abuse may be physical, sexual, or emotional crimes; in other cases, it may entail neglect, failure to provide essential care, or financial exploitation.

In Cherokee County, most crimes against elders involve scam/identity theft, according to the Cherokee County Adult Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation MDT, which reviewed 411 reports of crimes against senior citizens in 2023. During monthly meetings, this organization substantiated 268 allegations of abuse, including 101 involving scam/identity theft, a 173% increase over the prior year.

Suspected elder abuse should be reported to the Georgia Division of Aging Services at 866-55AGING (866-5524464) or Aging.Georgia.gov/reportelder-abuse. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.

We hope that by sharing information, we can help community members avoid becoming victims of these types of crimes. It is very important to stay vigilant and to help others in your life make good decisions when faced with potential scams.

Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office

Presentation for Cherokee County Senior Services Silver Roamers

Itwasn’t until the last assignment, of his last quarter, in his last year as a University of Georgia art major that Dan Reed found the theme that has defined his art. In painting two vintage gas pumps, standing in an empty station, Reed began telling the stories of a world that was rapidly disappearing.

Looking for those stories, Reed and his wife, Denise, took to the road, visiting America’s small towns from Georgia to Montana. Using a telephoto lens and highspeed film, he would hop out of the car and shoot photos while Denise kept the motor running, ready to head to the next town.

“I was always hunting to find this thing — I had to get reference material. Anytown USA didn’t exist, but I wanted to capture it,” he said. “Architecture was always involved. That is the story, the empty store, the empty street.”

While the internet now provides infinite images, the thousands that Reed took still serve as starting points. When he has an idea in mind, he might turn to the photos, perhaps using elements from several to create his vision.

“The painting can’t be straight from a photo,” he explained. “I always change the composition to create

BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Dan Reed Paints the Stories of “Anytown USA”

drama. I put a touch of a curve in the scene. It creates drama.”

Reed says that there is a human element in every scene he paints, even those without human figures. Stores and depots, gas stations and gas pumps, doorways and carousels become characters. Inanimate objects — a train, a bench, a curtain pulled slightly back — tell stories. In some paintings, a man or woman seems to be making a decision or remembering their past. A lone figure stands looking into a store window where couches and armchairs sit empty. The scenes are still. Lines, planes, shapes, color, and light draw the viewer’s eye and move it through the painting.

Almost all of Reed’s paintings are sunset, twilight, or night scenes, adding to the dramatic mood. While large areas of his works might be dark, a floodlight, fixtures hanging from a porch, fluorescent lights in

a shop window, or even the small light in a pay phone stall illuminate the scene and attract the observer’s attention.

“The light pulls you to places. There is theater in it,” he explained.

Although Reed’s paintings convey a distinct mood, he doesn’t want to dictate a message but invites the viewers to find their own. “I hope they think, ’Oh, yeah, I’ve been there.’ I hope they look and come up with their own stories. I want people to experience that process,” he said.

A Reminder to Fathers

By Rev. Kevin Huff

[InGoodFaith] I remember the joy that flooded my heart when my two daughters were born. Even though I was not a Christian at that time, I knew that they were precious gifts from God. After I became a Christian, through reading God’s word, I came to understand the great responsibility I had as a father. For example, the Apostle Paul states, “Fathers do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord,” (Ephesians 6:4).

One way a father can provoke his children to anger is by not being patient with them. When children feel they must walk on eggshells because their dad yells at them for every little mistake, they often develop anger and resentment toward him.

Another way that a father provokes anger in his children is by not spending time with them. I know a lot of adults who have years of built-up anger in their hearts toward their

fathers for not being around when they were growing up. I’m grateful that my dad wanted to spend time with me. To bring children up “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord,” dads must spend time with them. Fathers are given a great responsibility to teach their kids the word of God.

In addition to being overjoyed when my daughters were born, the day they both responded to the gospel and turned to Jesus as their Lord and Savior was another time I experienced immense jubilation. It’s equally blissful to watch my girls live for the Lord and to see them serve him.

This Father’s Day, I pray that the Lord will give patience, wisdom, and compassion to all dads, as they remember the awesome responsibility that God has given them when it comes to raising their children. L

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

Get Red Hot This Summer

By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] Red hot sun and hot red hair — summer arrives this month! Soon, the Georgia heat will have everyone paying attention to the humidity levels while relaxing by the pool. If you’re of the 1-2% of the population who has red hair, you’re already getting attention because of your naturally brilliant ginger locks. But what options are available for those who aren’t born with fiery red strands? Stunning red hair has always graced the red carpet, but how can non-Hollywood elites flaunt this pretty pigment?

Try one of these red hues this summer:

WARM REDS

If you have fair skin, then warm red hair color could be your best friend this summer. To make a bold, vivid statement, opt for fiery copper, which is a combination of bright orange and red. This option, synonymous with carrot-colored hair, will make a strong and sexy statement.

For a softer look, consider light auburn, which is a fusion of gold, red, and brown. The most natural-looking red hair color is ginger. If you aspire to be the typical “ginger,” like Prince Harry, then a light-tomedium, reddish-brown tone will be your warm red of choice.

COOL REDS

Choosing a hair color that complements your skin tone is always an important first step. Just like warm reds look best with warm skin tones, cool reds are best paired with cooler skin tones.

Cool red hair colors range from deep rich red, like red velvet cupcakes, to a blending of red and black for a dark-cherry effect. If deep reds are too bold, consider a lighter cherry or red mahogany. These shades of red have a touch of brown that is subtly unique and will enhance the richness of your eyes.

FUN REDS

Throw away skin tone for a moment and explore some of the most exciting ways to be a hot redhead this summer. A sunset balayage with a myriad of fiery reds cascading off your shoulders will definitely turn heads.

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

Or how about a candy-apple ombre? On dark brown or black hair, this transition of hair color from dark to a sweet red-apple color speaks of individuality all on its own.

More than any other option, red is all about finding the right balance between skin tone and hair color. It seems many of our favorite Hollywood stars have flawlessly embraced red locks at some point in their careers, leaving us to wonder if we could ever be “red carpet” ready. The good news is that even if we weren’t blessed with red hair at birth, we still have options. Gorgeous red hair always makes a statement and looks great year-round. But why wait? Go ahead, and ask your hairdresser if there’s a red-hot hue waiting for you. L

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