Contents
August 2021
VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 1
18-19
[18-19]
On the Cover
Cherokee Children’s Dentistry
09 Go Team!
High School Football Schedules
28-29
The Modern Library Cool Resources You May Not Know About
34 Artist Profile
[34] [28-29]
[09]
Buddy Finethy 04 06 10 13 16 20 24 26 27 30 32 33
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Canton Family Life
Family Life Publications
| August 2021
familylifepublications
.......................... Perspective .............................. Calendar .................... Community Life .......... Holbrook Campground Photos ....................... Canton Notes .............. Holly Springs Notes ........................ Public Safety ................... Senator Speaks ................... Canton Farmers Market Photos ............... Community Partner ............................ Quotables ........................ Book Review @FamilyLifeMags
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Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
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Publisher’s Perspective
he summer seems to be flying by, as Cherokee County students head back to school this month. During this season, we’ve been able to get out and enjoy our fine local weather, live music, festivals, and fairs. Choosing to spend quality time with our families instead of just our “spare” time is one blessing many of us have learned to appreciate more in the past year. We all learn one lesson at a time, building upon our trials and efforts, believing in ourselves in an effort to be our very best. In spring 2013, when I had the epiphany and opportunity to begin publishing an authentic family magazine, I had a lot more time on my hands. But the funny thing was that I was starting a “family” magazine, and I didn’t even have a family of my own yet. However, here in my home community of Cherokee County, I am beyond blessed to have a few families who make me feel part of theirs. Since the early nineties, back when I was the photographer for a local newspaper (actually, each of them at some point), I’d always wanted to be part of a publication like this one. So, it happened, and we’re here. I could not have done this without a great team of people (past and present), the patience and support of my friends who’ve stood by me, and the guidance and comfort provided by my faith in God and this community. Cherokee County is my happy place. So, to make this magazine even better, we recently decided to print on this new paper. Feel it? It’s smooth and velvety, not too mushy, and not too slick. We hope you appreciate the elevated sharpness, the easy-to-read satin finish, and the more refined and saturated colors. This is the type of magazine this Cherokee County boy has always wanted to share with his community, and I’m very proud to present it to you, beginning with the copy you now hold in your hands – issue one of volume nine. Good is good, but when better is possible – go for it.
ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Vicky Tuszynski Vicky@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George Anderson, Kelley Archer, Mary Kay Buquoi, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Bill Grant, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Steven W. Miller, Tim Morris, Jessica Oravec, Juan Reyes, Patti Richter, John Rodgers, Ellen Samsell Salas, Bruce Thompson, Shannon Wallace
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114
770-213-7095 Also available online at
FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Canton Family Life is a monthly community magazine that reaches more than 30,000 homes and businesses via digital subscription and direct mail in Canton including Sixes/BridgeMill, Ball Ground, Hickory Flat, Holly Springs, and Waleska. 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.
© 2021 All rights reserved.
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
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(L-R) Julie; Tiffany; Stephanie; Vicky and Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cyndi Braun
E
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EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
M AG A ZI
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~ William Thackery
PUBLISHER/SALES Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com
PLE
“Whatever you are, try to be a good one.”
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Human Kindness [Lifestyle] Cherokee Senior Services has been in situations that weigh very heavy on our hearts. Our office receives calls ranging from senior hunger, abuse and neglect, and mental health issues, to no family support, lack of affordable housing, and homelessness. Though we don’t have the expertise to deal with most of these situations, we do have the staff to reach out to those who do.
Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services
A common problem is senior homelessness or older adults living in their cars. In the past, the Volunteer Aging Council would assist in putting the senior up in a local motel for a week. In most cases, once the week was over, the individual was gone. A few months ago, we received a call regarding a couple that was living in their car in Canton. We evaluated the situation and tried to put them up in a local motel, but based on prior problems, the motel staff refused to accept them. Since there are no shelters in Cherokee County, the only option was to take them back to their car.
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
By Tim Morris
A few months later, we received a call from the man who was living in the car because the vehicle had been towed, and the woman who’d been with him was in jail for outstanding charges. MUST Ministries assisted with getting the man a motel room. Senior Services continued to work with organizations to figure out what would be best for the man, as he was also in poor health. The Volunteer Aging Council put him up for several more days, took him to see a doctor, got him a haircut, and fed him. We hope to have him placed in a personal care home with the help of Care Patrol. Cherokee Senior Services would like to form a coalition made up of various groups in Cherokee to help seniors in these situations. By forming this coalition, we hope that we can do a better job in demonstrating human kindness to these seniors who need it the most. If interested in being a part of this coalition, please give us a call. L
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Calendar 8 & 29
AUGUST
6
1-23
Rochelle Allen Art Show Featured artist Rochelle Allen will have a collection of her original oil paintings and charcoal drawings displayed in the gallery for four weeks. 6:00-8:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com
Cornhole ATL Fall Registration Sign up for Georgia’s largest and fastest growing cornhole league where the beer is cold, the competition is friendly, and the fun never stops. The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. CornHoleATL.com
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Downtown Canton First Friday With On the Border (Eagles tribute band) — Enjoy live music, a Kid’s Zone, after-hours shopping, restaurants, outside food and beverage vendors, and a cruise in! 6:00-9:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@ cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/ CantonGAFirstFriday
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Lake Allatoona Poker Run Proceeds from the event will benefit Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. 11:00am-3:00pm, card games at multiple locations with card turn-in at JD’s on the Lake, 6979 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. Registration@allatoonapokerrun.com. AllatoonaPokerRun.com
Sunday Braves Watch Party Meet up on The Green with friends and neighbors to watch the Atlanta Braves on the big screen. Check local listing for times. The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
11-12
Perseid Meteor Shower Head outside to check out what will probably be the best meteor shower of the year. The Perseids have the potential to produce up to 100 meteors an hour. Around 11:00pm on August 11 is when you should start to see lots of meteors streaking across the sky.
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Friend Friday Children ages 6-12 can enjoy a fun Friday night socializing with friends. In addition to various activities, pizza will be provided. There will also be an activity for those with special needs. $15 per person. 5:00-7:00pm, Cherokee County Recreation Center, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
ONGOING Friday and Saturday Live Music at The Mill — Enjoy FREE live concerts at this great venue: 8/6 Cody Matthews Band, 8/7 Vintage Vixens, 8/13 Debra Lynn Rodriguez, 8/14 TBD, 8/27 The Longshots, 8/28 Left on Main. 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
Canton Farmers Market — Each Saturday through October 16, purchase fresh goods from Canton’s local growers and food vendors. Horizon Healing will provide FREE Yoga in the Park at 9:00am on the first Saturday of each month. 9:00am-12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGaFarmersMarket@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/CantonGAFarmersMarket Ball Ground Farmers and Makers Market — Every other Saturday through October 16, shop for fresh fruit, garden vegetables, herbs, flowers, baked goods, micro greens, honey, local crafts, unique gifts, and other handmade treasures while you enjoy music and other entertainment. 8:00am-12:00pm, Ball Ground City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. Facebook.com/BallGroundFarmersAndMakersMarket
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13, 20, & 27
Decades at Reinhardt Enjoy FREE concerts, featuring a cover band that performs music from the 60s-80s. Reservations are required. 8/13 The Glow Band (60s) at 6:30pm, 8/20 Elton Live -The Ultimate Tribute! (70s) at 7:00pm, and 8/27 Xtreme Party Band (80s) at 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu/falany
13 & 27
Parent’s Night Out Drop the kids off at the pool, so you can enjoy adult time. Kids will swim, enjoy a pizza dinner, do crafts, play games, and end the night with a movie. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
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7th Annual Cherokee Career Expo The Cherokee Office of Economic Development presents this event, featuring networking opportunities, resume review assistance, and career guidance. The expo includes a diverse lineup of employers, which can be found by visiting the event’s website. 2:006:00pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center, 1200 Oakside Drive, Canton. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org/career-expo
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Music at Menagerie Enjoy outdoor live music, featuring local singer-songwriters. BYOB and a chair! All donations go to the performers. 6:008:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com
Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon Support VAC programs and get a delicious hotdog lunch for $5. All proceeds support seniors and senior veterans of Cherokee County. 11:30am-1:00pm, Cherokee County Senior Services, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
The Market at The Mill on Etowah — Every Tuesday night, come out to shop and support the best local makers, creators, bakers, and artists. 5:30-8:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com Unwind Wednesdays — On the first Wednesday of each month through November, gather your family and friends to enjoy food trucks, live music, and other monthly activities such as axe throwing, bounce houses, cornhole tournaments, archery, and trivia. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E., Canton. PlayCherokee.org
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
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No-Fail Fall Gardening Join Cherokee Master Gardeners to learn about year-round veggie garden options with less heat, fewer pests, and good harvests. 10:0011:30am, Encompass Ministries/Papa’s Pantry, 6551 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock. 770-591-4707. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com [continued on page 8]
Trivia Night — Gather your dream team and compete for first, second, and third place prizes each Thursday night! 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com Free CPR/AED Certification Class — On the last Saturday of each month, this fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org
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Calendar
LIBRARY EVENTS SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
continued from page 7
BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 770-735-2025
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Market at Menagerie Stop by to shop at this outdoor artisan market. 10:00am-2:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. MenagerieOnMain.com
HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090
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Canton River Rock Concert Series Presents Sundance Head Enjoy this FREE concert, featuring Sundance Head, who has written and recorded with the likes of ZZ Top, been a top finisher on a major network talent competition, had three No.1 songs on the Texas music charts, and toured with some of the top artists in the business. 6:00-10:00pm, Etowah River Park Amphitheatre, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov
BOARD GAMES AND BOOK TASTING August 6, 3:00pm, Hickory Flat Explore a variety of board games that the whole family will enjoy while checking out book selections that relate to the games. TIE-DYE ART August 9, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Celebrate your love of reading by creating a small bookthemed piece of art. This activity is recommended for ages 12+. STORY TIME IN THE PARK August 12, 11:00am, Ball Ground City Park Join the public library at Ball Ground City Park (177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground) for an outdoor story time, which is designed for families with children of all ages. EGGSHELL PLANTERS PUMPKIN EDITION August 31, 11:00am, Ball Ground Little ones can make their own eggshell planter and plant marker for pumpkin seeds, which will allow time for pumpkins to grow and be ready to harvest in the fall. MARIO KART 8 TOURNAMENT August 31, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Teens in 6th-12th grades are invited to celebrate Princess Peach Month by competing in a Mario Kart 8 Tournament on Nintendo Switch.
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
21-22
The Etowah Wildlife Expo Enjoy falconry flights, dog shows, and fishing demonstrations at this FREE event, in addition to bass fishing lectures, live music, sportsman vendors, and a children’s zone. The two-day event will be capped off with a silent auction and wild game dinner benefiting the Georgia Wildlife Federation. 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday and 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. GWF.org/etowahexpo, EtowahWildlifeExpo.com
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Women’s Equality Day This is a commemoration of August 26, 1920, which is when women’s voting rights officially became part of the U.S. Constitution. This day marks a turning point in the struggle for equal treatment of women and women’s rights.
SEPTEMBER
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Downtown Canton First Friday With Trotline Enjoy live music, a Kid’s Zone, after-hours shopping, restaurants, outside food and beverage vendors, and a cruise in! 6:00-9:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/ CantonGAFirstFriday Add
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2021 HIGH SCHOOL
Football Schedules CREEKVIEW
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
CHEROKEE 8/18
vs. Mays @ West Forsyth, 5:30pm (Corky Kell Classic)
8/27
@ Sequoyah
9/3
@ Rome
9/10
Creekview
9/17
@ Cartersville
10/1
@ Woodstock
10/8
Roswell
10/15
Etowah
10/22
Alpharetta
11/5
@ Milton
ETOWAH
8/20
Etowah
9/3
Woodstock
9/10
@ Cherokee
9/17
Cambridge
10/1
Sequoyah
10/8
@ River Ridge
10/15
@ Riverwood
10/22
@ Chattahoochee
10/29
Centennial
11/5
@ Johns Creek
RIVER RIDGE
SEQUOYAH
WOODSTOCK
@ Creekview
8/20
Lassiter
8/20
@ Woodstock
8/20
Sequoyah
8/27
Forsyth Central
8/27
@ Woodstock
8/27
Cherokee
8/27
River Ridge
9/3
River Ridge
9/3
@ Etowah
9/3
@ Cass
9/3
@ Creekview
9/10
@ North Forsyth
9/17
Chattahoochee
9/17
Johns Creek
9/10
@ Campbell
9/17
North Cobb
10/1
Riverwood
10/1
@ Creekview
9/17
Calhoun
10/1
@ Roswell
10/8
Creekview
10/8
@ Cambridge
10/1
Cherokee
10/8
Milton
10/15
@ Centennial
10/15
Chattahoochee
10/8
@ Alpharetta
10/15
@ Cherokee
10/22
@ Sequoyah
10/22
River Ridge
10/22
@ Etowah
10/22
Woodstock
10/29
Johns Creek
10/29
Riverwood
10/29
@ Milton
11/5
@ Alpharetta
11/5
@ Cambridge
11/5
@ Centennial
11/5
Roswell
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
8/20
CHEROKEE CHRISTIAN
THE KING’S ACADEMY
8/20
Skipstone Academy
8/20
Armuchee
9/3
@ Creekside Christian Academy
8/27
@ North Georgia Falcons
9/10
Pinecrest Academy
9/3
@ Central Fellowship Christian Academy
9/17
North Georgia Falcons
9/10
Community Christian
10/1
@ Bethlehem Christian Academy
9/17
@ Georgia Force
10/8
@ St. Francis
10/1
Calvary Christian
All schedules were accurate at time of print. Please visit the following websites to verify information before attending a game:
10/15
The King’s Academy
10/15
@ Cherokee Christian
10/22
@ Flint River Academy
10/22
@ Gatewood
CherokeeK12.net CorkyKellClassic.com TheKingsAcademy.org CherokeeChristian.org
10/29
@ Calvary Christian
10/29
Pinecrest Academy
11/5
Lafayette Christian
11/5
Skipstone Academy
Unless noted, games begin at 7:30pm.
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
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Community Exciting CCSD Student Accomplishments Six Students Earn State Honors at Technology Competition
Twelve Class of 2021 Graduates Honored by Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame
The annual Georgia Student Technology Competition offers students in grades 3-12 the opportunity to showcase their skills through 16 categories and vie for honors at regional and state fairs.
This community organization recognizes the most outstanding male and female senior athletes from each of CCSD’s high schools. Honorees are nominated by high school administrators based on the outstanding athletic contributions the seniors made during their high school career. This recognition is a separate program from the Hall of Fame’s annual induction ceremony honoring individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of athletics in Cherokee County.
Six CCSD students placed first, second, or third at the statewide event (Top L-R) 1st place, Marissa Migneco, Graphic Design, Etowah HS, grade 9; 2nd place, Micah Kampman, Audio Production, Johnston ES, grade 4; Ryan Wexler, Project Programming, Indian Knoll ES, grade 4. (Bottom L-R) 2nd place, Sequoyah HS Class of 2021 graduate Daniel McCrobie, 3-D Modeling; 3rd place, Cherokee HS Class of 2021 graduate Isabella Ayala, Internet Applications; and Paxton Miller, Multimedia Applications, Indian Knoll ES, grade 5.
Congratulations to the Class of 2021 honorees: (Top L-R) Cherokee HS’s Kate Johnson and Dom DeLillo, Creekview HS’s Makena Gates and Grant Anderson, (Middle L-R) Etowah HS’s Kinsey Norton and Brock Rechsteiner, River Ridge HS’s Ciara Miles and Taylor Harris, (Bottom L-R) Sequoyah HS’s Paige Powers and Carson Throne, Woodstock HS’s Michael Roe and Glenda Setlock.
Ten Student Athletes Honored With 2021 Positive Athlete Georgia Regional Awards Positive Athlete Georgia, a subsidiary of Celebrate Positive, LLC, which promotes the benefits of positivity to young athletes around the world, sponsors these awards. Hines Ward, a former Forest Park High School, University of Georgia, and Pittsburgh Steelers football star, formed Positive Athlete with local businessman Scott Pederson. More than 3,000 high school students are nominated annually by coaches, principals, athletic directors, teachers, and parents. Awards are presented for each sport at the regional level, with regional winners advancing to state-level competition. In addition to demonstrating excellence in their sport, Positive Athletes must show characteristics such as an optimistic attitude, teammate encouragement, servant leadership, heart for others, ability to admit imperfections, giving 100% all the time, and realizing the team is more important than the individual. Award recipients include (Top L-R) Cherokee HS’s Laney Cline, tennis, and Lexie-Anne Rodkey, alternate sport; Creekview HS’s Samantha Buchberger, golf; Etowah HS’s Maggie Bradley, soccer, and Molly Froman, gymnastics. (Bottom L-R) River Ridge HS’s Camden Cochran, wrestling; Sequoyah HS’s Grant Davis, swimming and diving, and Jonah Haney, football; and Woodstock HS’s Ryan Comeau, multi-sport, and Reece Morrish, lacrosse.
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
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Community
Six Class of 2021 Graduates Earn $1,000 ABM Scholarships
Sheriff Frank Reynolds Appointed to Georgia Board of Driver Services Cherokee County Sheriff Frank Reynolds was recently appointed by Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan to serve a six-year term on the Georgia Board of Driver Services.
Each year, ABM Industry Groups, LLC, which provides custodial services for CCSD schools, awards a $1,000 scholarship to one graduating senior from each of the high schools. The six winners are selected by a scholarship committee of retired CCSD educators and ABM representatives based on the student’s involvement in school and community activities and service, a personal essay, and references.
“I am very honored to serve on this Board, and I appreciate Lt. Gov. Duncan and Director Spencer Moore for giving me the opportunity to serve the citizens of Georgia,” said Sheriff Reynolds. The Georgia Board of Driver Services governs the Department of Driver Services (DDS), which is responsible for enforcing and administering state laws and regulations relating to driver’s licenses.
The Class of 2021 winners are (Top L-R) Cherokee HS’s Miguel Esteban-Juarez, Creekview HS’s Brinn Dameron, and Etowah HS’s Aneisa Jones. (Bottom L-R) River Ridge HS’s Legacy Guider, Sequoyah HS’s Matthew Scoretz, and
The nine-member board meets monthly to discuss issues related to improving customer service, advancing technology, and protecting the safety of the citizens of Georgia.
Woodstock HS’s Sebastian Moss.
Ten Class of 2021 Graduates Win Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation Scholarships It is the second year for these annual college scholarships, which have expanded from the inaugural awarding of two scholarships to 10. Each recipient receives $2,500. The scholarships are open to students planning to continue their education in Georgia and study education, agriculture, veterinary medicine, religion or theology, or a related field. The Foundation also considers applicants’ community service and their references’ recommendations. Class of 2021 recipients are (Top L-R) Olivia Barger, Dylan Mahoney, Braesen Parker, and Abigail Taylor of Cherokee HS; (Middle L-R) Christian Deneka of Etowah HS; Stephanie Felonta, Victoria Kershaw, and Legacy Guider of River Ridge HS; (Bottom L-R) Jordan Campbell of Sequoyah HS; and Annisabelle Aguilar of Woodstock HS.
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
Cherokee County Finance Receives Prestigious Award For the fifth year in a row, Cherokee County has been recognized by the Georgia Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada for its excellence in budgeting. Cherokee County earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award given by the GFOA, which reflects the commitment of its governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. To qualify for the award, Cherokee County had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines. Administrative Services Agency Director Stacey Williams lauded the work of the finance team, especially Planning and Analysis Manager Ariana Freimuth, who is responsible for compiling the extensive document submitted to the GFOA. The award also includes a Certificate of Recognition for Freimuth. The GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.
FamilyLife Publications.com
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Community Canton PD Unveils New Electric Motorcycles The Canton Police Department added a new form of patrol, which will enhance community safety and support the City of Canton’s sustainability goals. Canton Police Chief Stephen Merrifield announced that the department has added two new allelectric motorcycles to its fleet. “The motorcycles will allow us to patrol our newly expanded park trail system without emission and noise pollution,” said Chief Merrifield. The new motorcycles will also “allow officers to engage more community members, as we continue to build relationships and trust,” he added. Three Canton police officers have been trained and certified to operate the motorcycles. They will be used regularly throughout the year for traffic enforcement, concerts, parades, trails, and special events. The motorcycles are manufactured by Zero Motorcycles and are designed for on and off-road use. For more information, please visit ZeroMotorcycles.com.
Pierson Receives Dr. James Creel EMS Pioneer of the Year Award At this year’s Northwest Georgia/Region 1 EMS Awards Banquet, Cherokee County Paramedic Program Director Randy Pierson received the Dr. James Creel EMS Pioneer of the Year award. This award honors a person who has been instrumental in the development of the region’s EMS system and has served multiple roles throughout his/her career for the betterment of the profession. The recipient is selected by an average of the scores of three independent judges. Pierson has worked for the department since 2015. He is responsible for getting the initial accreditation to the Emergency Medical Services-Paramedic Training Program at Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program (CAAHEP) in March 2019. CAAHEP is the largest programmatic accreditor of the health sciences professions.
City of Canton Special Project Updates
Heritage Park Plyometric Gym A new outdoor fitness gym is being installed at Heritage Park near the staircase from the YMCA to the park. This gym will include weight-training equipment that utilizes the person’s own body weight. Downtown Tree Lights Heritage Pa rk Plyometri c Gym The lights in the trees in downtown Canton are one of the unique features that many enjoy. These were replaced in July under a new contract and maintenance agreement with a provider. State Route 140 to Waleska Expansion A request for qualifications for engineering design between Marietta Highway and Mary Lane on SR-140 received submission packages last month. The City is reviewing and creating a shortlist of potential firms. A contract is expected to appear before the council for approval in October. Archer Street Parking Deck Construction documents were released for bid proposals on July 1, and bid closing is August 3 with a recommendation for council approval in September. Construction should begin in late October. For more information on project updates, visit CantonGa.gov.
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
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Last month, many residents participated in one of Cherokee County’s oldest religious traditions – the 183rd edition of the Holbrook Camp Meeting.
Rev. David Laycock of Macedona United Methodist Church served as this year’s host pastor, while Rev. Mike Orr and Rev. Jared Lathem were guest ministers. Dylan Feezell served as the meeting’s song leader for the first time. The tradition of camp meetings at Holbrook Campground began in 1839, when Jessie Holbrook was reported to have sold 40 acres of land for $20 to local Methodists for the purpose of having such meetings. Camp meetings have been going strong there ever since, with the current arbor having been built in 1890, according to organizers of this year’s camp meeting. Traditionally, the camp meeting is a nondenominational Christian gathering, with Baptist and Methodist ministers preaching. During the 10-day event, children’s services were held daily, followed by a morning worship service, and afternoon prayer services. Each day concluded with an evening worship service. While some participants come for just a day or two, others stay the entire time. Rev. Orr said he was glad to be back again in 2021, offering messages of hope to those gathered at the campground, leading worshippers to a restored sense of faith, and guiding attendees to salvation. Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
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Community Cherokee Music Teacher Association Presents Awards The Cherokee Music Teachers Association recently held its annual awards ceremony at Reinhardt’s Falany Performing Arts Center. Trophies were presented to students who had participated in the Association’s judged event and accumulated sufficient points. Recipients included Nathaneal Anderson; Addie Balboa; Jordan and Virginia Battaglia; Hayden Danneman; Joey Dagostino; Logan Dodd; Jack Dugas; Henry Dusseault; Emily Dubuc; Robert and Thomas Duffoo; Davis, Kate, and Kyla Fenn; Nina Forsythe; Amonis Godfrey; Luke Griffies; Maci Hamilton; Felicity Jeong; Jonah and London Kim; Elijah Kotronis; Angela Matthews; Brennen, Elsa, and Sophia Maxwell; Mckinley and Clair Moore; Julianna Ogden; Amelia Oliver; Shaoey Pace; Noah Powell; Uriah Ribley; Allison Sirmon; John Thomas; Julie Tryon; Colt Turner; and Kyle Yuzzi. Guest artist Raffi Besalyn of Georgia State University presented a recital, and Summer Music Camp Scholarship winners from 2020 and 2021 also performed: Nico Brett, Joey Dagostimo, Leland McAbee, and Noah Powell.
New Comprehensive Transportation Plan Website Cherokee County recently launched a Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) website, CherokeeMoves.com. The new website was created, as the county prepared to update its CTP, which identifies current and future transportation opportunities to address the growing population. The updated CTP will assess enhancements to roadways, pedestrian and bicycle access, and transit and freight capacity. “Transportation demand continues to rise in Cherokee County, and this update is an opportunity to enhance our network,” said County Manager Geoff Morton. “The CTP will identify infrastructure improvements that manage increasing demand, support economic development, minimize environmental impacts, and ultimately promote a high quality of life for our communities. This process is key in determining the future of transportation across Cherokee County and ensuring our growth is met with the right transportation investments.” Residents, businesses, and visitors are encouraged to read more about the CTP on the website. Opportunities for the public to provide input on proposed project plans will be provided later this year. For additional information or questions, please contact the county at CherokeeMoves@cherokeega.com.
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Cherokee County Farm Bureau Awards the Cheyenne Heard College Scholarship The Cheyenne Heard College Scholarship is awarded to a Cherokee County senior who is pursuing a degree in agriculture. The scholarship is in memory of Cheyenne Heard, who was a student at Creekview HS and a volunteer for Cherokee County Farm Bureau. This year’s $1,075 scholarship (L-R) William Grizzle, president of was awarded Cherokee County Farm Bureau, and to Braesen Braesen Parker. Parker. While he was a student at Cherokee HS, Parker was a member of the football team, Football Leadership Council, and Student Government. He also received the Love of Language Award in 2018 and was a Scholar Athlete from 2018-2020. Parker is attending Berry College and majoring in agricultural science.
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NEW
Classroom Impact GRANT ANNOUNCED By Lisa-Marie Haygood
[AcademicLife] The Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation recently celebrated retiring County Manager Jerry Cooper with a Classroom Impact Grant named in his honor. The Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) will have an additional $2,500 grant to award this fall thanks to the generosity of Jason Dickerson, a CCEF board member who wanted to find a way to recognize the tremendous charitable service Cooper has given during all the years he served as Cherokee County manager. Classroom Impact grants are awarded annually to Cherokee County School District (CCSD) teachers to help fund innovation and excellence in the classroom. Some recent grant awards have included Celestron Telescopes for high school astronomy clubs, classroom ukuleles, band instrument repairs, outdoor raised garden beds and classroom spaces, and even lifestyle learning labs and specialty seating for CCSD’s special needs Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive student population. director for the Cherokee County Grant applications will open this fall and will be awarded next spring.
Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
15
CantonNotes
LEADING WITH
Excellence By Mayor Bill Grant
T
he City of Canton recently held three public readings to adopt the millage rate and prepare for the final adoption of the 2022 operating budget. In many respects, this is one of the most important formal processes that I along with the City Council and City staff follow each year to ensure tax dollars are allocated and spent in the most responsible way possible. It is no easy task, but our team continues to do an excellent job when it comes to delivering the highest quality services and amenities at the lowest possible cost to Canton’s citizens. After participating in eight budgets, I am especially proud of our results this year for a variety of reasons.
and equipment for Building & Safety Services and the Canton Police Department, ongoing exponential impacts of the Senior Tax Exemption, and so much more. With excellent financial stewardship and steadfast leadership, we remain in a fortunate position to hold our millage rate steady. I hope you attended our public meetings on the budget. The entire document is posted on CantonGa.gov for those who were unable to be there. This graph shows the functions and amounts of expenditures for 2022:
The plan is to hold Canton’s millage rate steady again this year at 5.4 mills — the lowest tax rate in the last 28 years. You’d have to go back to 1962 to find a rate as low as the one proposed for next year. Canton will maintain the lowest millage rate of any city in Cherokee County and one of the lowest in Georgia. In addition, Canton’s millage rate includes all City services: police, fire, recreation, streets, municipal courts, community development, code compliance, building and safety services, and administration. Canton residents also benefit from the lowest sales tax rate in Georgia at 6%, and seniors ages 62 or older continue to receive a full exemption of property taxes on the fair market value of a home up to $280,000. Our fiscal year 2022 operating budget will be the largest in the City’s history at $88 million. The increase is primarily due to the bonds we received for the major expansion of our Water Pollution Control Plant and funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. However, substantial expenditures include our major sewer plant project, the continued expansion of our river trail network connecting Heritage to Boling Park, a new downtown parking deck, a Housing Trust Fund, creation of an Office of Economic Development & Tourism, a citywide transportation study and plan, enhanced investments in cultural and public art, roadway improvement studies for GA-140 between Riverstone Parkway and Waleska, upgraded technology
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As we plan and implement our budget to expedite our citizens’ priorities included in our Roadmap for Success, our goal is to continue to enhance quality of life and services, while we “Lead With Excellence” to create and maintain the “Coolest Small Town in America!”
Bill Grant is the mayor of the City of Canton. 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov
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Will a Metal Roof Save Me Money? By Juan Reyes
[HomeLife] Metal roofing is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners. Its durability, beauty, and fire resistance mark metal roofing as a sensible choice for homeowners with specific needs.
Pros of a Metal Roof CostOwl.com, a buyer comparison website, points to four major benefits: Environmentally Friendly – Everything about a metal roof, from the panels to the fasteners, is recyclable and is often made from recycled metal. It is also energy efficient and durable, reducing many costs embedded in manufacturing, shipping, and installation. Long Lasting – During its typical 50-year life span, metal roofing is nearly maintenance-free. Warranties are available that begin at 30 years and can last up to 75 years. Economical – Energy efficient, reflective metal roofing lowers cooling costs. A metal roof is more expensive at installation, but it lasts up to three times longer than a shingled roof. Safe – Metal roofing is impervious to insect damage, fire, high winds, and most other issues nature throws at it.
Cons of a Metal Roof I nitial Cost – A metal roof will cost at least double what a fiberglass-asphalt shingle roof will cost. The highest quality metal roofing, such as copper, can cost up to $20 per square foot. Denting – Just as a fiberglass-asphalt shingle can be dinged and cracked from blunt force, a metal roof can be dented from hail, tree branches, or other objects. Noise – Very few homeowners have complained about the noise a new metal roof causes, though this is generally a question of following recommended installation guidelines to include proper insulation, sheathing, and underlayment.
Who Benefits? Whether building a new or updating an existing home, a metal roof is a worthy investment. If professionally and expertly installed, your new metal roof will probably last at least 50 years.
The bottom line? If you plan to occupy your home for many years, metal roofing will save you money. Its durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency are unbeatable.
Juan Reyes is the owner of Pro Roofing & Siding. 2558 Canton Road, Marietta. 770-373-7064. MyProRoofing.com
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
17
COVER STORY By Patti Richter
for Back to School The first pediatric dental practice in north Cherokee County, Cherokee Children’s Dentistry, was established nearly 14 years ago by a husband-wife team of dentists: Drs. Miles and Anthea Drew Mazzawi. Pediatric dentistry is their specialty, and they designed a fun and friendly environment that puts kids at ease during their visits. “We’re a relationship-based practice, focused on individualized care for each patient and family,” says Dr. Miles. “Our approach allows us to build a rapport with children, gaining their confidence in the dental setting.”
“Family Defines Us” Us” Dr. Miles Mazzawi grew up in Snellville, on Atlanta’s east side. His parents, who were both dentists, demonstrated the wonderful opportunities to be found in their profession. It’s remarkable that Dr. Miles and all four of his siblings became dentists. “You could call it a family affair,” Dr. Miles says. Growing up in the family practice, he had a front row seat to witness how his parents positively impacted their patients’ lives. He recalls his father saying, “Take great care of the patients, and the rest will take care of itself.” After graduating from the University of Georgia and then obtaining his doctorate of medical dentistry, Dr. Miles practiced general dentistry at his family’s Snellville office for two years. His experience helped him realize how much he enjoyed working with children, so he went on to obtain additional training in pediatric dentistry, completing his residency in 2005. Dr. Anthea Drew Mazzawi, who goes by “Dr. Drew” at the office, earned her dental degree from the University of Florida before completing her pediatric dentistry training in 2005 at the Medical University of South Carolina. She says, “It’s a privilege that parents entrust us with their child’s oral health care.” “We practice my parents’ philosophy every day,” says Dr. Miles. “That is why we have a patient-centered practice. We are owner-operated, with a mom-and-pop, hometown feel. We focus on delivering comprehensive pediatric oral health care for our patients from infancy to young adulthood. Our additional training prepared us to service their unique needs.” Cherokee Children’s Dentistry offers a range of specialized care. In addition to routine cleanings, the office provides provide sedation for young, anxious, and specialneeds patients, and interceptive orthodontics for early growth and development.
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New School Year, New Healthy Habits Last year brought many challenges to families. With the everevolving school schedules, parents had to continually adapt. From an oral health perspective, this created inconsistencies. “I’m concerned that the decay rate has shown a significant increase. Virtual learning may have provided opportunities for more frequent snacking, which influences caries risk for children of all ages,” says Dr. Miles. “As parents of 7-year-old twin daughters, we know how hard it is to adhere to a healthy diet and remain consistent with oral hygiene habits,” adds Dr. Drew. “A new school year is a great time to jumpstart good routines. Regular oral hygiene combined with a diet that includes healthy alternatives to high carbohydrates and refined sugar snacks will help mitigate cavity risk.” Dr. Drew recommends limiting snack time to 10-15 minutes and partnering the snack with water to avoid additional sugars in liquids, which fuel cavities. She suggests that children drink primarily water, particularly between meals and near bedtime. “Water cleanses the oral cavity and often contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens teeth to resist the cavity process,” says Dr. Drew. Dr. Miles adds, “Young children in particular are sippers and grazers. Limiting the time kids interact with food and sugar exposure on their teeth may be one of the more important factors in preventing cavities. Children should be brushing their teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and
flossing once. Consistent oral hygiene definitely creates a foundation for good oral health.”
Meeting the Needs of a Growing Community Dr. Miles and Dr. Drew are excited to be expanding their dental family. Dr. Kristin Piche joined the practice in 2020 after completing her pediatric dental residency at Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Abbey Tadros arrived recently after completing her residency at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Dentistry. “Dr. Kristin has been an amazing addition, providing the same level of comprehensive care that our patients and families have come to expect,” Dr. Drew says. “She and Dr. Abbey bring new and young energy to our team. It’s been really fun.” “Our doctors and team at Cherokee Children’s Dentistry provide the absolute best, individualized pediatric dental care,” Dr. Miles says. “We look forward to many more years of engaging our community, and teaching parents and children the value of good oral hygiene and dietary habits. Our goal is to develop confident adults who will have a healthy rapport with dentistry for life.”
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
Dr. Abbey • Dr. Miles
Dr. Drew • Dr. Kristin
205 Waleska Road, Suite 2-B, Canton, GA 30114 770-479-1717 • CherokeeChildrensDentistry.com
FamilyLife Publications.com
19
HollySpringsNotes
In Remembrance By Mayor Steven W. Miller
T
he love and support that has been shown to the families of Councilwoman Karen Barnett and Officer Joe Burson over the past several weeks has been nothing short of incredible. We are grateful to our neighbors — those in our backyard and those across the nation — who have reached out to offer their condolences and asked what they could do to fill any needs. Councilwoman Barnett served the citizens of Holly Springs since 2005. During the first Council meeting after her passing, her absence was heavy. While offering his invocation, Mayor Pro Tem Michael R. Zenchuk said, “Thank you for lending the City of Holly Springs your kind and gracious servant Karen Barnett.” At the time, Mayor Pro Tem Zenchuk was specifically talking about Councilwoman Barnett, but the same words hold true for late Officer Joe Burson. At press time, the news of Officer Burson’s passing was just days old, but we do indeed offer thanks for the time Officer Burson was with the Holly Springs Police Department. Both Barnett and Burson were exactly the type of people who make Holly Springs special. Barnett was passionate about parks and insisted that the desires of the citizens be the No. 1 priority when the Council decided to purchase the Cagle Family Farm property on Stringer Road for future park use. She loved the Holly Springs Police Department. Did you know that for years on Christmas Day, she invited the on-duty police officers to her home for Christmas dinner? Her family shared story after story just like this one. The details were different, but the sentiment was the same. Barnett loved to take care of people. Officer Joe Burson, tragically killed in the line of duty in June, came to the Holly Springs Police Department in November 2019. Chief Tommy Keheley described him as the kind of officer that all chiefs would want to clone. According to Chief Keheley, Burson was a quick thinker with good judgement. He was known for making time to talk with children who were interested in seeing inside his patrol car, letting them turn on the blue lights, and answering all their questions. He also encouraged his fellow officers. Countless
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ett
Councilwoman Karen Barn
people have simply described him as, “one of the good ones.” Officer Joe Burson
Karen Barnett and Joe Burson will not be forgotten. Their contributions to our community will have a lasting impact, far beyond what we can imagine in our time of sorrow. We mourn their passing, but we rejoice in the precious time we had with them. If you would like to make a financial contribution to the family of Officer Burson, please visit FriendsOfHollySpringsPoliceFoundationInc.org. You can also mail a check to the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation at PO Box 1066, Holly Springs, GA 30142 or make a deposit to the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation at South State Bank (1925 Marietta Highway, Canton).
Steven W. Miller is the mayor of Holly Springs, 3237 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us
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Six Ways To Help Children Cope With New Situations By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.
[AcademicLife] New experiences and transitions can be challenging for children to deal with. Learning expert and awardwinning writer Susan Magsamen, member of The Goddard School Educational Advisory Board, offers six tips on how to help children cope with unfamiliar situations:
Talk with your child about upcoming new experiences. Share your own experiences about similar situations, including your feelings because it gives your child permission to feel those emotions, too. Make it a story. When you put your experiences into a story with a beginning, middle, and end, it helps your child develop a sequence and process for moving through any new situation. For example, “I was worried that I would get lost at school and be late for class. So, I toured the school with my mom before school started and figured out where everything was. It made me feel much better.” Find creative solutions to problems. Ask your child whether he/she has any questions about a new experience. Work together to creatively solve each of these problems one by one. Imagine together what a new experience will be like. Your child may not have a specific concern, but it helps to create a virtual image of what a new experience might be and what might come up. Have grounding things. When transitioning from a familiar situation to an unfamiliar one, it’s important to have something with you that makes you feel safe and grounded. For young children, it could be a book, a stuffed animal, or a photo of the family. Ask in advance about guidelines for what children can bring to school. Make home a safe and welcoming place. When your child comes home from school, start with a big smile and a bigger hug. Then, offer a simple snack. You could also provide downtime that doesn’t include screens or other distractions. Above all else, be sure to encourage at-home and bedtime rituals during the week that enable your child to get lots of rest and sleep.
Mary Kay Buquoi is owner of The Goddard School, 140 Foster Road, Woodstock. 770-720-1311. GoddardSchools.com
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
21
Fast
Finishes By Jyl Craven
[Lifestyle] Odds are, you’re an incredibly busy super mom, an on-the-go professional, or both. You know that the task of blow drying your hair every day adds a significant amount of time to your morning ritual. What price would you pay to create a few extra minutes in your daily routine without having to get up earlier? What if you were able to significantly reduce the amount of time spent drying your hair in the morning?
Here are four blow drying tips to help you save time by creating faster finishes: Moisture Be Gone Before you begin styling your hair, you must first get rid of as much moisture as possible. Rather than using a towel with a vigorous back and forth motion that creates tangles and knots, try using a microfiber towel to squeeze your hair. A microfiber towel is softer and will soak up more moisture. Then, allow your hair to air dry for 10 minutes before adding any heat.
The Power of Product After towel drying, apply a blow-drying booster to help speed up the process. Quality products contain heat conducting polymers that help
wick away the moisture and can greatly reduce the amount of time spent drying your hair. Straightforward Time-Saving Blow Dry Oil, by Shu Uemura, is perfect for faster finishes. It contains black cumin oil, which gives your locks a sleeker, smoother finish.
Quality To the Rescue The No.1 thing you need in your blow dryer is power. More power equals more air flow. Look for a dryer with at least 1,800 watts of power. Also, look for an ionic hair dryer. Negative ion emitting dryers
create an energy that breaks down water molecules into fine particles that penetrate the hair shaft then rehydrate, recondition, and restore balance to the hair. A cool shot button is another nice feature that will help to set the style while you blow dry. The Bio Ionic 10X Pro Ultralight Speed Dryer provides all these benefits, uses 75% less energy, and dries hair in under 10 minutes.
Perfecting Your Technique Begin rough drying by first focusing on the saturated roots and mid lengths. Make sure to keep the dryer moving in the direction of roots to ends. Once your hair is 80% dry, then you can begin styling it. Adopting one of these recommendations alone will do little to reduce your drying time. But like many things in life, it’s the cumulative effort that matters. Once you include all these habits into your morning routine, you’ll quickly reward yourself with a few extra valuable minutes. Yes, faster finishes can be in your future and so can better hair. L
Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com
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The 3rd Annual Great Georgia Pollinator Census By Joshua Fuder
[HomeLife] The 3rd Annual Great Georgia Pollinator Census is August 20-21. This event brings together citizen scientists from across the state for insect education and conservation. The data collected from the census will be used by researchers to spot pollinator population trends, economic valuations, and correlations between populations and other factors such as weather. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, bees are responsible for pollinating $15 billion worth of crops annually. Georgia produces 20% of the vegetables grown in the U.S., three quarters of which depends on bee pollination. Unfortunately, pollinators have declined rapidly in recent decades due to habitat loss, disease, parasites, and chemical use. Bees are the most common and efficient pollinators, but they are not alone in providing this valuable service. Butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, bats, flies, and other insects also help. How Does the Census Work? Start by visiting the Great Georgia Pollinator Census webpage at GGaPC.org to download the insect counting and identification guide. The guide has excellent photos of the most common pollinators in garden settings and will help you recognize these simple categories for counting: carpenter bees (think shiny hiney), bumblebees, honeybees, small bees, wasps, flies, butterflies/ moths, and the “other” category. Next, pick your favorite blooming plant to observe for the 15-minute census time. The best time to observe pollinators is from mid-morning to early afternoon. This 15-minute period can be a great exercise in mindfulness — an opportunity to slow down and take in the sites and sounds in one place in your yard. After recording your count, you simply go back to the website and upload your valuable data. Please join citizen scientists across the state for this celebration of the pollinators in our lives.
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/ extension/cherokee
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
23
Public Safety
BACK TO SCHOOL
Preparing Students Beyond the School Building By Shannon Wallace
E
very summer, parents take an active role in getting their children ready to go back to school or college. Preparations typically involve buying school supplies, books, and clothes. Parents might also attend a meet-and-greet at the local elementary school or take a tour of their child’s college campus. During this busy time, consider sitting down with your children to discuss staying safe and making sound decisions. Conversations should be informative, not scary, with important concepts reinforced frequently. ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS Now may be a good time to discuss these general guidelines: Obey and respect authority figures including bus drivers, teachers, and school police. Practice safety when cars are around, especially while crossing streets. Be cautious when communicating on the internet; predators are everywhere. Understand physical boundaries and the difference between good touch and bad touch. If in danger, scared, or unsure what to do, seek help from a school counselor, teacher, coach, parent, or other trusted adult.
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HIGH SCHOOL/COLLEGE STUDENTS While the elementary/middle school student list still applies to this group, teens and young adults deal with more mature issues. Here are additional discussion topics: Alcohol and substance abuse – emphasize that underage drinking and illegal drugs are against the law. Get help for your child if he/she shows signs of addiction. Driving – be sure to follow all traffic laws, wear your seatbelt, do not speed, and respect law enforcement officers. Also, do not drive under the influence and do not get into a car when the driver is under the influence; instead, call a trusted adult for a ride home. Dating – remind your teen/young adult that relationships should be healthy, safe, and supportive. If a partner is physically or emotionally abusive, your child should talk to a counselor, teacher, coach, or other trusted adult. A new law in Georgia (HB 231), effective July 1, enables victims of dating violence to file a petition for a protection order. This law applies to everyone (including teens) who have been in a committed relationship for six months or more. Suicide – support your teen/young adult, stay connected, and get help at any sign of mental or substance abuse problems. Your teen/young adult may also see warning signs of suicide in a friend and should encourage the friend to get help and/or talk to a trusted adult for assistance. Every year, the District Attorney’s Office handles criminal cases that involve innocent children or young people who have made risky choices. Our hope is that by educating citizens of Cherokee County, we can help to prevent these crimes and protect our children. Parents and other adults who have a role in the lives of young people, please remember that you can make all the difference, simply by being involved and in tune with what is going on in a child’s life. RESOURCES Substance Abuse and Mental Health: SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP or SAMHSA.gov Dating Violence and Protection Orders: Cherokee Family Violence Center, 770-479-1804 or CFVC.org
Shannon Wallace is the district attorney for Cherokee County. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office
Suicide Prevention: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255 or SuicidePreventionLifeline.org
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CHURCHES MUST WARM UP
Before They Close Down By Pastor George Anderson
[InGoodFaith] “I am afraid we are losing our passion for the body of Christ.” Those words were spoken in a meeting of church leaders. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss launching a new worship service. The discussion was about to go off the rails when a gentleman spoke up and, I think, diagnosed the underlying issue. Years later, his words still echo in my heart. Have we lost our passion for the church? In 1945, 78% of Americans belonged to a church. Today, less than 50% belong to a church. According to a Gallup study, the biggest drop (23%) has happened over the last 20 years. Correspondingly, over the last decade, roughly 4,500 houses of worship have closed each year. Some predict that as many as one quarter of existing churches will close over the next few years. Some may take this as good news. Some may even make it their goal. What would be the result of living in churchless communities? One thing is certain — it’s foolish to think that people are not going to worship something. Humans are born worshippers. It is only a question of whom or what they will worship. Do we really want our children and grandchildren to grow up in a world without churches? I think that many people (including some who don’t even attend church) find that undesirable. But the point is not just to have churches in our community. We need places of worship that are alive and on fire for God, and we must remember that our churches will become what we are: if we’re weak, they become weak. Therefore, we must strive to be the people God has called and equipped us to be — people who are passionately in love with him. It’s not our passion for the body of Christ that matters most — it is our passion for Christ himself. When our own hearts are right, our churches will be right, and our communities will be what they should be. L
Dr. George Anderson is pastor of Rising Hills Church, 3635 Univeter Road, Canton. RisingHillsChurch.org
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
25
Senator Speaks
By State Senator Bruce Thompson
R
ecently, I attended a convention on the coast. I was excited by the opportunity to stay at a newer resort and meet individuals who shared many of my same beliefs. I arrived on Wednesday evening and grabbed an early dinner with a couple of colleagues before heading back to my room. The next day, I encountered some of my friends at breakfast, and they were still recovering from their late evening escapades. I am not saying there is anything wrong with a few dinner drinks or a late night around the fire, but it’s important to keep in mind the reason the convention is taking place. It was a business development conference, not a divorce recovery or an AA meeting. The conference was packed with useful information and practical examples
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that anyone could assimilate into their business. That is, anyone who actually attended the meetings. By the second afternoon, the meeting attendance dropped to 50%. By the final day, attendance was below 25%. At the close out dinner event, people behaved like sailors on leave after 12 months at sea. Frankly, it was embarrassing to watch good people make poor decisions while they were inebriated. The Bible warns us of the consequences of becoming drunk with wine or alcohol in several verses including Proverbs 23:21: “For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.” Even King Solomon warned against overindulging and how doing so would become a barrier to prosperity. Why?
Because it is difficult to think clearly when your mind is severely affected by alcohol. When inebriated people make unwise choices, it often leads to incredibly painful consequences. At this particular conference, I witnessed a very respected individual make some very inappropriate comments that led to fractured or possibly permanently destroyed business relationships. So, the lesson is that if you decide to drink, do so in moderation. Maintain control of your mind and your mouth.
Bruce Thompson represents District 14, which includes Canton and Woodstock. 404-656-0065. BruceThompsonGa.com
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Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
27
The Modern Library Cool Resources You May Not Know About By John Rodgers
Now that the Summer Reading program has ended and students are back in school, some people might think the local public library no longer belongs on their list of places to continue visiting. “It’s just the building with books, right? The school library has books.” Maybe so, but public libraries aren’t what they used to be (for starters, nobody’s going to greet visitors with a “Shhh!”). From computer access and wireless printing to sewing machines and robotics that can be checked out and taken home, here’s a brief rundown of some modern resources available at Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS).
1 Explore 3D Printing Each SRLS library has a 3D printer. Want to have something printed to keep? Submit a printing request either online or inside the library to get started. Library staff at each location have a variety of 3D-printed items on display to admire, and visitors can even view the printer in action to learn how the process works.
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John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. 770-479-3090, x320. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
There’s a small fee to keep the printed item(s), but library staff will mention the price beforehand, and items are significantly cheaper than the knick-knacks available elsewhere. Library patrons who created custom-designed 3D models in Tinkercad can bring their creation to life using the 3D printer at the library as well.
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4 Appreciate Accessibility for All Readers Everyone deserves to enjoy the local library, including people with disabilities. Ask a librarian about Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind & Print Disabled. This service promotes the use of assistive technology and provides accessible reading materials to those who are unable to read standard print due to a disability.
2 Access e-Library Services Most people are aware that the library has e-books and audiobooks that can be checked out to their e-reader or mobile device, but the list of e-library services expands far beyond that. Anyone with a library card can use Ancestry to piece together his/her family tree, take free and easy courses to learn over 70 languages with Mango, or prepare for a trip abroad with the comprehensive country-by-country database A-to-Z World Culture.
Anyone who is unable to read or handle standard-printed materials, is legally blind or cannot see well enough to read standard print (even with glasses), is unable to hold or turn pages of print books, or is certified
5 Check Out the Library of Things Again, libraries have so much more than just books. The Library of Things is a collection of nontraditional items that can be borrowed by anyone looking to explore, learn, and create. These include board games, puzzles, kendama, digital microscopes, minirobotics called Cubelets, and other technology.
Teenagers can even find practice driving tests, and those looking to save money on magazine subscriptions can use Flipster to read the latest issues of more than 20 magazines including Southern Living, National Geographic, and Us Weekly from the comfort of their own devices.
3 Enjoy Experience Passes What’s the best thing about having a library card? It’s a huge moneysaver, and SRLS offers passes for free or reduced-price admission to local museums, parks, and other cultural institutions. These include passes for Zoo Atlanta, more than 60 state parks and historic sites, Atlanta’s Center for Puppetry Arts, the Chattahoochee Nature Center,
by a medical doctor as having a reading disability is eligible for GLS. Assistive toolkits are also available to take home.
and a variety of other local museums. Ask the front desk library staff about any particular pass, which can be checked out using a library card — just like books. Don’t schedule a family trip or weekend getaway without first exploring which Experience Passes are available at the library.
Take home a sewing machine from the library to work on a project, or check out a ukulele or other musical instrument. Need a computer? Borrow a Google Chromebook to browse the internet, catch up on homework, or work wherever and whenever, at no cost! After all, why buy when it can be borrowed using a library card?
6 Grow With Seed Libraries In partnership with the Master Gardeners in Cherokee County, SRLS features seed libraries at the Rose Creek, Hickory Flat, and Ball Ground locations. Seed libraries are free and allow visitors to “check out” vegetable, herb, and flower seeds. At the end of the growing season, seed borrowers are welcome to return seeds from their successful plants to the library. This ensures that the library contains seeds that will be healthy in the local growing environment.
To quote Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park, “Uh, well, there it is.” Public libraries have so much to offer that visitors can find endless things to do each week without even touching a single book. Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
These amazing resources (and more) are free and offered year-round. Stay connected with SRLS on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or by visiting SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org. FamilyLife Publications.com
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Community Partner
The PAMAH Foundation T
he PAMAH (Percilla Ann Marie April Hodge) Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization formed by Shaquille Hodge in December 2018 after the sudden death of his wife. In July 2018, Shaquille and Percilla took their family to South Carolina for a weekend family getaway. While the family prepared to go to the beach, Percilla complained of a headache and nausea, so she directed Shaquille and the family to go ahead while she rested and took meds for her headache. When Shaquille returned from the beach, Percilla did not recognize him and did not know where she was, so he rushed her to the local hospital. She was later diagnosed with pneumococcal meningitis, and doctors began treating her condition. Days later, 27-year-old Percilla succumbed to the disease, never waking from her medically induced coma. Shaquille was left with three children ages 7, 5, and 3 months.
After experiencing the sudden loss of his wife, Shaquille wanted to assist other families who may have suffered the same type of loss. With the help of his mother and a family friend, he formed the PAMAH Foundation to honor Percilla’s memory while raising awareness of this and other vaccinepreventable diseases.
In April, PAMAH held its first event of 2021 — the 4th Annual Pork & Torque Car and Truck Show in Woodstock. Although it rained hard, visitors, car clubs, and volunteers from surrounding states came to support the event. Former NBA basketball star Shaquille O’Neal made a special appearance and showcased his car with its cool modifications.
PAMAH’s small staff of three volunteers has developed programs and held events to raise awareness of meningitis, meningococcal disease, and other vaccine-preventable diseases, emphasizing the importance of immunizations for health and wellness in the community. Though PAMAH’s mission to advocate, educate, and vaccinate began as a journey of awareness for meningitis and meningococcal disease, it has increased its scope to include COVID-19 and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
In partnership with Pepsi-Stronger-Together, Woodstock Pharmacy, Cherokee County Department of Health, and Hartley Health and Wellness, PAMAH recently held a Backto-School Vaccination Drive. Three clinics were held in Cherokee County the weekend before school began. Vaccinations were given to students and educators, and a raffle was held to supply laptops and hotspots for students in need who will be homeschooled this year.
For more information about PAMAH or its other upcoming events, please call, visit the website, or follow social media.
P.O. Box 138, Lebanon, GA 30146 678-926-9507 | PAMAHFoundation.org @PAMAHFoundation @pamahfoundation
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@PAMAHF
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The Mental and Physical Health Benefits of
Pickleball By Kelley Archer
[Lifestyle] Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. Since its early days in the 60s, it has become a popular neighborhood activity from coast to coast. Many communities, neighborhoods, and clubs have added pickleball into their master plans and have seen a growing number of residents and members engage in the sport. People ages 55+ tend to play pickleball more often because of the accessibility, ease of the sport, and the many health benefits it provides. Here are four reasons pickleball is beneficial to masterplanned communities and their residents: 1. The sport can boost your mood and overall mental health, often lowering levels of daily stress and anxiety and increasing energy levels. 2. Pickleball specifically improves balance and agility while giving players the benefit of regular exercise, which often reduces the risk of heart attack and chronic diseases, toning muscles and increasing stamina.
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
3.
The sport is played with two or four people, giving players the chance to mix and mingle with new neighbors and friends. 4. The rules are a combination of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, making it an easy sport to pick up and making the game more fun and less intense. Pickleball courts allow people the opportunity to learn a new sport while making friends and staying active. Master-planned communities with features like protected green space, exercise facilities, trails, swimming pools, and tennis and pickleball courts are great for people who want to be social and get some exercise while staying close to home. L
Kelley Archer is the marketing manager for Landeavor, the developer of the Great Sky community, 100 Sun Shower Ridge, Canton. 770-704-0234. GreatSkyGa.com
FamilyLife Publications.com
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Quotables “If you want to know who controls you, look at who you are not allowed to criticize.” -Voltaire
“One is never afraid of the unknown; one is afraid of the known coming to an end.” -Jiddu Krishnamurti
“If there were no mud, there would be no lotus flower. There’s a very close connection between suffering and happiness.”
“We learn from history that we do not learn from history.” -Georg Hegel
-Thich Nhat Hanh
“Growth happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change.” -Tony Robbins
“More the knowledge lesser the ego, lesser the ego more the knowledge.” -Albert Einstein
“People travel to wonder at the height of mountains, at the waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and they pass by themselves without wondering.” -St. Augustine
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“Experience is the hardest kind of teacher. It gives you the test first and the lesson afterward.” -Oscar Wilde
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Book Review BY JESSICA ORAVEC
We
say we are lucky if we find money in the couch or an old coat pocket. We think we are lucky when we narrowly avoid a car accident. But our luck (good or otherwise) depends upon our perspective and our circumstances. In Will Leitch’s novel, How Lucky, Daniel considers himself to be a lucky guy. Daniel lives in Athens, Georgia, home of epic college tailgates. He has a steady paycheck working in customer service for an airline, and he gets to see his best friend every day. But Daniel also has a debilitating disease, one that has robbed him of the ability to speak, walk, and occasionally, to breathe. But he lives on his own, he has caregivers who come in both day and night to make sure he is safe, and he and his best friend, Travis, can carry on an entire conversation without saying a word out loud. Daniel’s daily routine works well for him until, as luck would have it, he’s almost sure that he sees a woman kidnapped. Ai-Chin Liao walks by Daniel’s house almost every day. One day, he sees her get into a car, and she isn’t heard from again. Daniel tries to tell the police what he saw but is unable to make them understand. So, he surfs the internet, trying to help. But when a post he made on Reddit brings some unwanted attention, Daniel will face the fight of his life to save Ai-Chin, his friends, and himself. Leitch does a wonderful job of balancing Daniel’s story with the disappearance of Ai-Chin Liao. In a genre when most “detectives” are fully able people, it is refreshing to read about a character who refuses to let his debilitating disease win. How Lucky is about luck and determination, and how we can consider ourselves lucky despite our circumstances.
Jessica Oravec lives in Cherokee County and is an avid reader and a children’s minister. She holds a B.B.A. from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology.
Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat
FamilyLife Publications.com
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ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
M
ultimedia artist Buddy Finethy began his creative adventure as a 5-year-old comic book junkie. Drawn to the sense of fun and experimentation found in comic books, Finethy knew early on that he, too, wanted to create worlds and characters and to transform ideas into visual experiences that people would enjoy. With his brain “psychedelicized by Marvel comics” and 1960s gig posters, and with his love of the blues, Finethy embraced the pop culture revolution that rock music ignited in the 60s. Breaking free of rules for more than 30 years, Finethy has reveled in this world of possibility. The result has been art that breaks free of the limitations of flat surfaces and resonates with bright and muted colors, light and shadow, movement, fantasy and reality, people and imaginary beings, flowers, geometric patterns, and text. “I stumbled into this world of makers. People who create; I realized that was my religion,” Finethy said. In the 1980s, he began creating work for Relix magazine, “the LIFE magazine of the Grateful Dead and the bands around them.” He says that his Grateful Dead work for Relix remains some of his favorite.
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“Here I am in the world of the Grateful Dead, and I saw I wanted that lack of borders,” he recalled. “That’s where my characters came from.” In addition to his Dead work, Finethy created gig posters, album covers, and cartoons for other music legends including the Allman Brothers, Taj Mahal, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Translating the spirit of music into succinct visual experiences, he earned a spot in the Hard Rock Cafe Hall of Fame with his art for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. When he retired from the corporate world, Finethy returned to the music world. In 2016, the Allman Brothers called upon Finethy to create merchandise designs, in anticipation of the band’s 50th anniversary tour. Now, he does pro bono art for up-and-coming musicians and helps them learn how to market themselves. Always with a notebook, a mechanical pencil, and an iPad in hand, Finethy creates daily. Each piece begins with an idea, then a concept sketch that he “bounces” into his iPad to clean it up before bouncing it back
out for a redraw. Using various hardnesses of lead, he achieves different effects and tones. In Photoshop, he captures the tones and converts them into the colors he envisions. “You’re filtering light in and out,” he said. “The advantage is I keep the energy and my original gray tones for the printed version.” When printing the image, he transforms a static canvas into art that amazes viewers with its surprises and depth. Finethy likes working in acrylics that grab the surface and sometimes uses an engraving tool to carve into the paint, further adding to the depth of the work. “I’m a junkie for multi-dimensional,” he said. Whether helping young musicians translate their music into visuals, writing children’s books, or teaching workshops to other eternal students, Finethy continues to embrace the spirit of experimentation and possibility that he discovered as a child.
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Advertiser Index The Arbor at BridgeMill
1
The Carpenter’s Shop
3
Cherokee Children’s Dentistry
Cover, 18-19
CSA Impact
5
Darby Funeral Home, Inc.
33
Downtown Canton
23
Fun Finds & Designs, LLC
17
GarageExperts
Inside Front
The Goddard School
31
Great Sky
15
Happy Eyes Optometry
33
Harmony Orthodontics
Inside Front
Ireland Restorative Dentistry
3
Jyl Craven Hair Design
Back Cover
Killian Automotive
3
Landscape Matters
25
Masterpiece Framer
Inside Back
Mathnasium of Holly Springs
17
Mr. Handyman of Canton and Woodstock
21
North Georgia Vein & Wellness
35
Reliable Built Homes
32
ServiceWise Electric
23
Service League of Cherokee County
25
Volume Hair & Lash Co.
21
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
Inside Back
Online ads link to advertisers’ websites.
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Canton Family Life
| August 2021
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