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Contents

October 2021

VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 3

20-21 On the Cover

[20-21]

Southern Phoenix Services

26-27

Fritts Heating & Air

32-33

Comforting Coffee Recipes

Cozy Up With a Cuppa

34 Artist Profile

Raymond Pickens

[34] [26-27] [32-33] Follow Us >>>

Canton Family Life

Family Life Publications

| October 2021

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familylifepublications

........................... Perspective ............................... Calendar ........................ Canton Notes ..................... Community Life .................. Mayor’s Message ......................... Public Safety .................... Senator Speaks ......................... Book Review ................. Cherokee Office of Economic Development .................... Teacher Feature ............................. Quotables .................... Ribbon Cuttings @FamilyLifeMags

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Publisher’s Perspective

Harvest Some

Time With Friends

PUBLISHER/SALES Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cyndi Braun ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Vicky Tuszynski Vicky@FamilyLifePublications.com

We spent the spring and summer hustling and bustling about, planting the seeds of new friendships and relationships along the way. Now, it’s time to get together, enjoy some adventures, and talk not only about our most recent events but also to share great times, and simply revel in being among those we hold most dear to us. So, reach into your past and get in touch with that person (or persons) you’ve been thinking of recently. It’s never the wrong season to harvest the comfort of true friends.

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.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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

E R EC Y C

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114

Whether it’s tailgating at football games, visiting festivals, camping with our friends, coming together around a bonfire at dusk in a field, or simply hanging out in the cul-de-sac with our neighbors, we find that autumn is a time to relax and wind down after a busy summer. The days grow shorter, and we seem to fall into a smoother pace. Like the leaves floating on the breeze, we tend to find just the right place to settle down.

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc.

M AG A ZI

he blanket of leaves that covers the ground during autumn is a preface to cozy and comfortable days that will soon be upon us. Much like the way I could never pick one piece of music as my favorite, I’ve never been able to decide which of the seasons is dearest to me. During this time of year, the light of day takes on a warmer hue, as it reflects off the golden yellows, bright reds, and rustic browns that clothe the trees, hilltops, and valleys, and we find ourselves gathering not only leaves but also each other.

PLE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kelley Archer, Mary Kay Buquoi, Zip Cain, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, Steven W. Miller, Tim Morris, Savanna Morrison, Jessica Oravec, Juan Reyes, Patti Richter, Ellen Samsell Salas, Brooke Schmidt, Abigail Smithwick, Anna Teal, Bruce Thompson, Shannon Wallace

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Calendar OCTOBER

1, 15, & 11/5

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

1-11

Fall Fund Drive Benefiting RUMC Foundation, Inc. Shop, party, play, and help support the RUMC Foundation by participating in the Eagle Hungers Virtual Auction. The adults only ParTee Night Out will be held at a private home on 10/8 at 6:00pm, and the Malone Dodson Golf Tournament will be on 10/11. Proceeds cover the operation costs for the foundation, where 45 endowments and grants are awarded to a variety of important causes. Registration 10:00am and golf begins at 12:00pm, Woodmont Golf & Country Club, 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton. RUMCF.org/events

2nd Annual Car Show for Team Ezra The Woodstock Public Safety Foundation will host this car show fundraiser for which 100% of proceeds benefit Ezra King, the 5-year-old son of a Woodstock police officer, who is currently battling an aggressive brain tumor. Car Show registration is a $25 donation per vehicle. Registration 11:30am, car show 1:00-5:00pm, First Baptist Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock.

3 & 17

It’s a Wibit — A Wibit is a giant floating playground on water. Children must be able to pass a 25-yard swim test to play on the Wibit. Children under 14 must have a paid adult on the pool deck supervising them. 12:00-4:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-8804760. PlayCherokee.org

7-10

Etowah Film Festival Check out the website for the complete event schedule, which includes film showings and discussions with some of the filmmakers. Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-289-5700. EtowahFilmFestival.com

City of Canton Recycling Event: Peace + Love + Recycle — City residents can drop off items that are typically more difficult to recycle such as electronics, latex and oilbased paint, and tires. Paper shredding will also be available. FREE! You must be a City of Canton resident to participate. 7:00am1:00pm, Public Works Collection Site, 2525 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-720-7674. CantonGa.gov/events

Think Pink Cherokee 2021 Breast Cancer Awareness Walk This walk will feature a one-mile informational walk in downtown Canton, live entertainment, breast cancer awareness activities, and a walkers’ reception for all participants. Event fee $20.

Registration 9:00am and walk begins at 10:00am, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov, CantonGa.gov

Volunteer Trail Clean Up and Maintenance — Volunteer to help clean and maintain our beloved parks. Please register for this event, so organizers can plan accordingly. All ages are welcome, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. 9:00am-12:00pm, Fields Landing Park, 499 Fields Landing Drive, Canton. CAFussell@ cherokeega.com

Gallery Sessions: Music at Menagerie Presents Debra Lynn Rodriguez — This local musician will share her songs and her stories in an intimate listening room experience. Tickets $25. 6:00-8:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 W. Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

8, 15, & 22

Friday Night Live Music Series Each Friday night, enjoy FREE live concerts at this great venue. Check the website for specific artists before attending. 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

ONGOING Canton Business Club Meeting — Each Wednesday morning. 8:00am, Reformation Brewery, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 500, Canton. Facebook.com/CantonBusinessClub Canton Farmers Market — Each Saturday through October 16. 9:00am-12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGaFarmersMarket@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/CantonGAFarmersMarket

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

Ball Ground Farmers and Makers Market — Every other Saturday through October 16. 8:00am-12:00pm, Ball Ground City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. Facebook.com/ BallGroundFarmersAndMakersMarket The Market at The Mill on Etowah — Every Tuesday night. 5:30-8:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com

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1-31

FALL Family FUN

Pumpkin Patch — Bountiful loads of plump pumpkins will be for sale to benefit Shoal Creek Baptist Church missions. Pumpkin prices vary according to size. The pumpkin patch will be open Monday-Saturday until all pumpkins are sold. 8:00am-7:30pm, Pitchtree Cafe, 6874 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 770-720-0195. ComeToTheCreek.com

The Great Pumpkin Fest — Bring the whole family to enjoy this FREE fall festival! There will be bounce houses, craft vendors, a DJ, food trucks, lawn games, face painting, a hayride, and more. Bring your own pumpkin to launch from the trebuchet, and don’t forget to wear your costume and trick or treat at each of the vendors. 10:00am4:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. BBJohnson@cherokeega.com

Fall Festival — This FREE event features a bounce house, hayride, games, face painting, and food. 11:00am-3:00pm, Cherokee Presbyterian Church, 1498 Johnson Brady Road and Highway 20 (4 miles east of 575), Canton. Cherokee-PCA.org

Halloween Treats — Enjoy making Halloween treats such as snack mixes, spooky cupcakes, and mummy dogs. Fee is $35 per person. Ages 5-10 4:15-5:30pm and ages 8-14+ 6:00-7:15pm, Cherokee County Recreation Center, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. LATVoss@cherokeega.com

Hiking Scavenger Hunt: Halloween — Wear your costume and bring a flashlight to take on a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt from dusk into nightfall. Fee is $10 per person. All ages are welcome, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. 6:30pm, Lewis Park, 1080 Univeter Road, Canton. CAFussell@cherokeega.com

15 12

Face Your Fears Day What are you afraid of? Whatever it is, use this day to stand up to your fears in an effort to overcome them. Consider how your life might be improved if you conquered some of the things that frighten you. Just think; you might also inspire others to do the same.

13-15

Reinhardt University Opera — Enjoy an evening or three of live, FREE opera performances by current Reinhardt students. Please bring your own chair. 6:00pm, Donor’s Plaza/Hast Lawn at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Reinhardt.edu

Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $5. All proceeds support seniors and senior veterans of Cherokee County. 11:30am1:00pm, Provident Village, 1100 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

The Addams Family — Enjoy this classic movie about a spooky family. Tickets $2. Doors open at 6:00pm, movie starts at 7:00pm, Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov/cantontheatre

Ball Ground Creek Clean-Up After meeting at Ball Ground City Hall, volunteers will clean up trash around Ball Ground Creek. Donuts and coffee will be provided in the morning, and lunch will

Unwind Wednesdays — On the first Wednesday of each month through November. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. PlayCherokee.org Trivia Night on the Green — Every 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. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org

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

be offered after the clean-up. Please wear old shoes and clothes. Bring heavy work gloves if you have them. 9:00am-1:00pm, Ball Ground City Hall, 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground. Contact Will England at 770-479-1813 x245 to sign up or request more information.

Cherokee Music Teachers Association Meeting and Program — All CMTA events are FREE, and everyone is invited to attend. 10:00am, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Linda@Lokey.net

Emily Newman Art Opening Join fellow art lovers at the opening reception for this local artist’s show, which will go through November 13. 6:00-9:00pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 W. Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com

FREE History Lecture — Dr. Ken Wheeler will discuss his new book, Modern Cronies: Southern Industrialism from Gold Rush to Convict Labor, 1829-1894. This book shows how the southern gold rush, which took place in the surrounding area of the Etowah Valley, shaped the development of the southeastern U.S. 7:00pm, Rock Barn, 685 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-3453288. HistoryCherokee.org [continued on page 8]

FamilyLife Publications.com

Calendar

LIBRARY EVENTS

continued from page 7

SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 770-735-2025

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

R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090 BRITISH SUPERSPY TRIVIA October 4, 4:00pm, Ball Ground Take a break from your current mission to play a James Bond trivia TRIVIA game. The player who correctly answers the most questions wins a Bondthemed prize. All players will receive a door prize.

OO7

MAD HATTER CRAFTING HOUR October 6, 3:30pm, Hickory Flat Celebrate Mad Hatter Day with silly fun hat crafting. All materials provided. This is for ages 14 and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult. BALL GROUND BONES October 6, 4:30pm, Ball Ground Explore the science of skeletons. View X-rays, create a skeleton craft, play games, and enjoy other bonethemed fun. Materials are provided. This is recommended for ages 6-11. ASTRONOMY FOR BEGINNERS October 20, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Hear an introduction to the world of astronomy, hosted by Daniel from the Atlanta Astronomy Club — perfect for anyone who is curious about the night sky. FALL FUN FEST October 20, 5:00pm, Hickory Flat Enjoy games, treats, and fun spooky sights! All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. ALL ABOUT SKELETONS October 27, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Drop in for bone-related crafts and activities. Make a skeleton craft, view X-rays, and participate in a scavenger hunt for facts on animal bones. This is recommended for ages 12+. 8

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

The Shining — This classic horror film is recommended for adults only. Tickets $2. Doors open at 6:00pm, movie starts at 7:00pm, Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov/cantontheatre

22-23

Downtown Canton Cocktail Cruise “Cruise” through downtown Canton and The Mill on Etowah for tasty cocktails at more than 12 stops! You’ll also enjoy live entertainment, extended shopping hours, and other surprises. 10/22 5:00pm and 10/23 11:00am, 130 E. Main Street (downtown Canton) and 225 Reformation Parkway (The Mill on Etowah). Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov, CantonGa.gov

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Join the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds. Options to participate in person, online, and in local neighborhoods are available. 8:00am registration, 9:00am ceremony, 9:30am walk, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 706-408-6669. ACT.Alz.org

Etowah River Clean-Up — Breakfast and lunch will be offered for volunteers. Gloves and trash bags will also be provided. Please wear old clothes and shoes. Rivers Alive T-shirts are available while supply lasts. Registration is not required but appreciated. 9:00am-1:00pm, Olde Rope Mill Park, 690 Olde Rope Mill Park, Woodstock. Lori.Forrester@ccwsa.com. CCWSA.com

Candlelight Vigil — The Cherokee County Domestic Violence Task Force, in partnership with the Cherokee Family Violence Center, is holding a candlelight vigil in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The vigil will honor victims and survivors of domestic violence. 6:00-8:30pm, the Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. Facebook.com/CCDVTaskForce

Downtown Canton First Friday With No Sweat Enjoy live music, a Kid’s Zone, axe throwing, after-hours shopping, restaurants, and outside food and beverage vendors. 6:00-9:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga. gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/ CantonGAFirstFriday

7th Annual Cherokee Scholars 5K Run/Walk — Proceeds from the race will benefit Reinhardt University’s Scholarship Program for Students. Registration 7:00am and run 8:00am, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. Reinhardt.edu

Canton Fest — Watch UGA vs. Florida on the big screen, and kids can trick or treat throughout The Mill. There will be vendors, food trucks, and tailgate games. 12:00-8:00pm (game starts at 3:30pm), The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com/events

NOVEMBER

Limitless Disability Services Inaugural Golf Tournament — This tournament will raise funds for day programs for adults with special needs. $150 per player or $600 per team of 4. Check-in 9:00am and shotgun start 10:30am, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. 714-357-6045. BirdEase.com/LimitlessDisabilityServices

Downtown Canton First Friday With GlowBand — Enjoy live music, a Kid’s Zone, axe throwing, after-hours shopping, restaurants, and outside food and beverage vendors. 6:00-9:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@ cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov. Facebook.com/ CantonGAFirstFriday Add

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Staying Active By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] Golf is one of the few games you can play well into your later years. It provides low-impact physical activity as well as cognitive benefits. Rudy (R), a local golfer who is in his 70s, plays almost every weekend year-round. He seems to especially enjoy socializing with his friends, and he has had the same competitive drive for the last 30 years. I like seeing the interaction between Rudy and the group of friends he plays with every weekend. They look after him and enjoy his sense of humor. Rudy will play this game for as long as he can, and his one-liners will be long remembered by those who know him. His four-person team has played in the Volunteer Aging Council Golf Tournament to benefit seniors since its inaugural year in 2016. My father-in-law got me into playing golf. When he was still alive, I always enjoyed playing with him and his friends. At 80 years old, he shot his age and was always a good golfer. He played golf three days a week right up to the week he died. As we age, many studies have shown that socialization, physical activity, and keeping our minds sharp line the path to longevity. When our seniors could not meet up at the Senior Center during COVID-19,

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

almost every one of them expressed it was the lack of socialization that hurt them the most. They missed their friends and the daily interaction with them. The homebound seniors missed their Meals on Wheels volunteers and their homemaker aides because they could not go out to homes and spend time with them. If I could impart one piece of advice, it would be stay active in something you enjoy doing with friends who enjoy doing the activity with you. L

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

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CantonNotes

! t I y f i t r A N

nto a C ew

sion to Promote Ar t s i m m o C al Ar ts r u t l u nC

he newly appointed Canton Cultural Arts Commission (CCAC) plans to use public art in parks, at events, and through other community art initiatives to “art-ify” the city at large. “Art-ify” is a fun and creative term meaning to make more beautiful and meaningful through art.

says placemaking projects like the one at Harmon Park are an economic catalyst. Aylworth manages the Georgia Placemaking Collaborative, a program to help Canton and other selected cities develop local partnerships to address economic and quality of life issues. Community participation in the creation of these spaces is essential, she says, if public art is to be a true reflection of the city.*

“Art can and should enhance Canton and the lives of its residents and visitors,” says CCAC member Rob Walker-Bunda. This group of engaged volunteers plans to work on projects that will do just that.

CCAC volunteers are also working on a vision and mission statement as well as working with City staff to create a list of short- and long-term art goals around Canton.

One of the first projects the team has its eyes on coincides with the Atlanta United mini-pitch being built at Harmon Park in Canton’s Sunnyside neighborhood. Along with the soccer field and other park upgrades under construction, the CCAC hopes to work with City of Canton staff on a public art installation. Public art at this location will not only build pride in Sunnyside but also highlight Harmon Park as the special community and cultural asset that it is.

“Art creates a more vibrant community – one that helps remind us that we are all creative beings,” says CCAC member Jamie Foreman. “Whether we are painting a landscape, telling a story, or simply appreciating the artistic experience, we are all connected. Art is a partner of progress.”

By Brooke Schmidt

CCAC members, appointed by City Council and the mayor, are: • Jamie Foreman, gallery owner, Menagerie on Main • Elaine Frederico, counselor, Riverstone Counseling Center • Amy Kesler, pharmacist • Theresa Shampine, director, The Theodora Dance Conservatory • Rob Walker-Bunda, cofounder, Bunker Design • Bryan White, owner, Bryan White Photography & Art • Haley Whyte, art teacher, Knox Elementary STEM Academy • Staff liaison: Kristin Norton, director of Canton Theatre “When our arts and humanities sectors thrive, we see prosperity and revitalization in communities across our state.” – Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp * Source: Georgia Municipal Association

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

Stephanie Aylworth, downtown development manager for the Georgia Cities Foundation,

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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Inaugural Red, White & Blue BBQ Competition

Community Cherokee Thanksgiving Needs Your Help For nearly 30 years, Cherokee Thanksgiving has served meals to families and public safety/emergency workers of Cherokee and Pickens counties at Canton First United Methodist Church. In 2020, the venue was changed to Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q of Canton, which offered its restaurant as a staging area, with restaurant staff volunteering to prepare the food. Last year, 2,600 meals were served — 600 more than ever before. Williamson Bros. is graciously hosting again in 2021. This year’s event is dedicated in memory of Don Stevens, cofounder of Cherokee Thanksgiving, who sadly passed away from COVID-19. Another record year is anticipated, in the number of meals to be served and in the cost of preparation. Estimated funding needed to cover expenses is $12,000. For more information about event sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, please email Cheryl Mosley at MCBratney52@comcast.net.

Hickory Flat Gym To Be Renovated The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners recently approved $1.5 million in funding to renovate the historic Hickory Flat gym. The unanimous vote also included a county-controlled contingency of $160,000. After entering into a 50-year agreement with the Cherokee County School District in 2018, the County surveyed the public to learn the most desired use of the facility. In response to the survey, the County engaged KRH Architects to evaluate the building and recommend renovations that would meet the needs of the community. Under the approved construction agreement, the building will retain its historic feel while becoming a community center for the Hickory Flat area. Renovations will include structural improvements to the roof and floor; new utility services; American Disabilities Act improvements for building access, restrooms, and stage access; new HVAC; new cementitious board and batten siding and insulation; signage; and landscaping. When complete, the facility will accommodate Cherokee Recreation & Parks options such as basketball, fitness programs, senior programs, summer camps, and special events.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

Veteran organizations of Cherokee County are hosting an inaugural Red, White & Blue BBQ competition on October 29-30 at the American Legion Post 45 (160 McClure Street, Canton). This Georgia BBQ Association (GBA) sanctioned competitive cook-off event will offer two classes of competitors: professionals (GBA members) and amateurs. The professional division will compete for trophies and cash prizes totaling $10,000, while amateurs will compete for non-cash awards and People’s Choice honors. “We are looking to host this event every year around Veterans Day,” said John Bruss, event committee member from VFW Post 5262 in Canton. “Cherokee County has over 15,000 veterans and more than eight veteran service organizations, and we are very proud to be part of the larger Cherokee County community.” The Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program and Veteran Suicide Awareness, which is part of the Cherokee County Suicide Prevention Coalition, are the two charities that will benefit from this year’s event. Tickets for Saturday, October 30 ($5 per person over the age of 5), will include five BBQ tastings as part of the People’s Choice award. In addition to the BBQ competition and tastings, attendees will enjoy live music, a classic car show, a veteran-owned business craft fair, a children’s costume contest and trick-or-treating, and raffles. Professional BBQ entries will be reviewed by a panel of GBA sanctioned judges, and amateur BBQ entries will be reviewed by a combination of guest judges and attendee votes. If you would like to enter the competition, please contact Jim Lindenmayer, service officer for Post 45, for an application (678-983-7590 or JLindenmayer80@gmail.com) or visit BBQGa.org. Family Life is a proud sponsor of this event. If you or your company would also like to become a sponsor, please contact Jim Lindenmayer, Betty Lewis (Betty55@windstream. net), or Dale Walz (DMJWalz@gmail.com).

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Community CCSD Announcements  School Board Announces 2021-22 Student Delegates For the past 11 years, an outstanding senior student from each high school has been selected as a student delegate to serve for one year to give input and feedback to the School Board and to the superintendent of schools and his senior staff. The advisor role, which includes the opportunity to sit on the dais with the School Board, is rotated among the district’s high schools. This year’s student advisor is Jason Adkins of Woodstock HS. This innovative engagement program earned the School Board the Georgia School Boards Association’s 2020 Leading Edge Award. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower congratulates the School Board Student Delegates for the 2021-22 School Year. Front row (L-R): Elyse Robbins, Sequoyah HS; Lillie Cate Ergle, Cherokee HS; Emily Collins, Etowah HS. Back row (L-R): Ty Hubert, Creekview HS; Brian Bradley, River Ridge HS; and Jason Adkins, Woodstock HS.  “Tools for School” Campaign Benefits CCSD Families Representatives from Publix Supermarkets recently donated $63,540 in Publix gift cards to CCSD to help families in need. The gift cards are the result of the annual “Tools for School” community outreach fundraiser conducted by Publix, with the proceeds from each store going back to the local community. Customers at nine Cherokee County stores donated funds to support the effort. CCSD social workers will use the cards to assist families that are in economic crisis. (L-R) Dr. Debra Murdock, CCSD chief operations officer; Dr. Brian V. Hightower, superintendent of schools; Bryan Jewell, Publix district manager; and Russell Putnam, Publix assistant store manager.

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

 CCSD Police Department Earns State recognition The Joint Review Committee of the State of Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program recently renewed the CCSD Police Department’s status as a CCSD Police Department Certified Agency, a designation the Department first achieved in 2006. This is the highest level of State accreditation that local law enforcement agencies can earn, and it is rare for school police departments to complete the required rigorous review. CCSD’s Department, which is led by Chief Buster Cushing, is one of only five school police departments in Georgia to hold this certification.  Special Education Leader Earns National Board Certification Executive Director Charlette Green has earned the Board-Certified Specialist in Child Language designation from the American Board of Child Language and Language Disorders. The honor recognizes her expertise in child language and language disorders as well as her significant contributions to the field. The national organization is Charlette Green dedicated to “promoting high-quality services by speech-language pathologists to children and adolescents ages birth through 21 years whose language learning may be characterized as typical, at-risk, or atypical.”  Indian Knoll ES Earns Global Recognition Microsoft has selected Indian Knoll ES as a 2021-22 Microsoft Showcase School in honor of its successful integration of educational technology in the classroom to benefit students and teachers. Indian Knoll earned this global recognition for its dedication to effectively using technology for teaching and learning. Only 38 schools were selected as Showcase Schools, and Indian Knoll is the only school in Georgia named to the list. This honor will provide Indian Knoll with access to additional Microsoft resources and support, along with the opportunity to share innovative best practices with other top schools.

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Community City of Canton Special Project Updates

 Downtown Tree Lighting Replacement The City has replaced all the decorative tree lights in downtown as part of a new maintenance agreement with a private vendor. The agreement covers the monthly maintenance to keep Canton’s downtown streetscape sparkling, including new types of lights. Check out the new waterfall lights on W. Main Street.

 Window Replacement at 151 Elizabeth Street

As part of an efficiency project, the City removed a number of stained glass windows at the 151 Elizabeth Street Complex (Public Safety and Municipal Court) and replaced them with custom energyefficient windows. The older windows were given to the former building occupant, First Baptist Church of Canton.

 Automated Meter Reading Project

The City’s utility department is working on a project to convert readings to an automated platform. Requests for qualifications were turned in during the summer, and a smaller pool of firms were asked to move forward with full proposals, which were due by the end of September.

 Old Ball Ground Sewer Expansion and Etowah River Trail Connection Work continues on the sewer and trail project that will connect Heritage Park and Boling Park on the north and west sides of the Etowah River. Much of the new sewer line has been installed, and new sod has been planted in portions of Heritage Park.

More project update information can be found at CantonGa.gov.

Cherokee County 2021 Early Voting Times and Locations Three Locations Open October 12-29  Elections Warehouse, 400 E. Main Street, Canton  Elections Office (temporarily moved to Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center), 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton  South Cherokee Annex, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock Tuesday-Friday, October 12-15 (voting hours 8:30am-5:00pm) Saturday, October 16 (voting hours 9:00am-5:00pm) Monday-Friday, October 18-22 (voting hours 8:30am-5:00pm) Saturday, October 23 (voting hours 9:00am-5:00pm) Monday-Friday, October 25-29 (voting hours 8:30am-7:00pm) Three Additional Locations Open October 23-29  Ball Ground Public Library, 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground  Hickory Flat Public Library, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton  Rose Creek Public Library, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Saturday, October 23 (voting hours 9:00am-5:00pm) Monday-Friday, October 25-29 (voting hours 8:30am-7:00pm) If you miss early voting, you will need to go to your regular polling place on election day. For more information on your polling place, please visit MVP.SOS.Ga.gov.

Canton Police Unite Community at Inaugural Multicultural Festival Last month, the Canton Police Department and the United Pentecostal Church invited the community to the first Multicultural Festival at Etowah River Park. The free event celebrated diversity and multiculturalism through music, dress, food, games, and entertainment from different cultures. The idea for a multicultural event originated last year when Canton Police assisted with the collection and delivery of the Hurricane Relief Drive (for those in need in Honduras and Nicaragua) and a food drive to support MUST Ministries. During those collection drives, police officers witnessed different cultures and races collaborating to help others. The department developed relationships with diverse groups of people from the Canton community and wanted to build on those connections. They partnered with United Pentecostal Church to conceptualize how to continue to reach out to others, and the multicultural event was born. The goal of the Festival was to encourage unity by bringing together diverse groups of people who coexist in Canton while promoting cultural awareness, overcoming stereotypes, and discouraging racism.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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The 2021 Chick-fil-A Moove It 5K Was Bigger Than Ever! By Lisa-Marie Haygood

[AcademicLife] On August 14, Etowah River Park was alive with excitement, as our community turned out for the largest ever Chick-fil-A Moove It 5K Road The star t of the 5K race . Race. More than 1,500 runners participated in this year’s event, which was sponsored by all Cherokee County Chick-fil-A (CFA) locations: Keith Booth, operator of the CFA at the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta; Scott Hall, operator of Towne Lake CFA; Ron Hammock, operator of the new Truett’s CFA in Woodstock; and Kevin Williams, operator of the Hickory Flat, Market Place, and Riverstone CFAs. Parks Stamper of 104.7 The Fish Atlanta did a live broadcast from the event, and Anderson Sisk of the Transition Academy as well as a random race participant won CFA for a year for dressing up as the “Most Spirited Cow.”

ators with the The four oper . -fil-A for a year ick winner of Ch

Salvador Castillo was this year’s overall male winner with a time of 15:45.23, and the overall female winner was Brooke Simon with a time of 18:39.17. Sebastian Viveros was the masters (over 40) male winner with a time of 18:49.33, and Yvonne Skene was the masters female winner with a time of 22:32.92.

Sponsors included Carriage KIA of Woodstock, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Cobb EMC Community Foundation, Corporate Office Furniture, Credit Union of Georgia, Croft & Associates, Goodwin Investment Advisory, Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation, Jey Willis State Farm Insurance Agency, Killian Automotive, North Georgia Audiology, Northside Hospital Cherokee, Pinnacle Orthopaedics, Southeast Restoration, Stellaris Group, Universal Alloy Corporation, and Walmart of Riverstone. The race raised more than $75,000 to benefit both the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) and the Cherokee County Special Olympics. CCEF will use the funds to award Classroom Impact Grants for several teachers across the school district, and the Special Olympics will use the funds to support Cherokee County athletes in competitions across the state this year — including our inaugural kayaking team!

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

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

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Mayor’s Message

Construction Begins on

HOLLY SPRINGS TOWN CENTER A New Live-Work-Play Destination By Mayor Steven W. Miller

September 3, City of Holly Springs elected officials, staff, and project partners broke ground on the Holly Springs Town Center near the intersection of Hickory Road and Holly Springs Parkway. The long-anticipated new development will further energize downtown Holly Springs with a walkable, Main Street-inspired destination that weaves together civic and community spaces with an array of retail, restaurant, and residential offerings. At the heart of Holly Springs Town Center will be a new City Hall, envisioned as a 16,000-square-foot, three-story, brick and stone design with an iconic clock tower and charming early 20th century architecture, honoring the rich history of the community. Rolled out in front of it will be the inviting Market Plaza and Grand Lawn, an ideal location for festivals, markets, and community events. At the other end of the Grand Lawn will sit a new outdoor amphitheater, and on on either side, visitors will find more than 30,000-square feet of restaurant and retail space. Public spaces will be served with ample parking including a dedicated parking deck. Also, a variety of new residential options will be offered at Holly Springs Town Center including new city homes and town homes for sale as well as luxury lofts available for lease.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

We’ve envisioned the new Holly Springs Town Center as a vibrant setting with a diverse array of places, activities, and experiences for our community to enjoy — a true city center. We are aiming to create a fresh new destination that also honors our city’s long history and strong sense of community. We are excited to begin to see that vision come to life. Under its 2017 agreement with the Holly Springs Downtown Development Authority and the City of Holly Springs, Stonecrest Homes is acting as the master developer for the Town Center project to oversee land development, construction, and sales operations. To see more on the vision for Holly Springs Town Center, or to follow along on progress and the latest updates, visit HollySpringsTownCenter.com or connect with @HollySpringsTownCenter on Instagram and Facebook or @HollySpringsTC on Twitter.

Steven W. Miller is the mayor of Holly Springs, 3237 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us

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The Fall Color Phenomenon By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Every fall, I receive calls and emails asking when the best weeks will be for “leaf peeping.” Often, folks are arranging visits from more southern latitudes that don’t get a vibrant or varied color display. While north Georgia is not as famous for fall color as New England, it’s still pretty fantastic. Why and when plants exhibit fall color is controlled by the plant’s genetics and its environmental factors from precipitation, temperatures, and cloud cover. A warm, wet spring followed by a summer that is not too hot or dry and an autumn with plenty of warm, sunny days and cool nights make for the best fall color display. Leaf colors come from pigments, with chlorophyll being the most important and apparent throughout the spring and summer. The primary function of chlorophyll is photosynthesis, which allows the plant to absorb energy from light. Shorter days and

cooling temperatures slow the production of chlorophyll, and what remains breaks down and disappears. Then, orange and yellow pigments, carotenoids, and xanthophylls that have been masked by chlorophyll become apparent. This is when poplar, redbud, hickory, and birch trees look their best. Some plants produce anthocyanins (red and purple pigments) that can mask the yellow pigments. Some maples, dogwoods, tupelo, oaks, and euonymous are best known for their fiery reds. Sunny days and cool nights increase sugar content in leaves, which ramps up the anthocyanin production. This explains the two-tone effect that some trees exhibit with yellow on the leaves inside the tree and red to purple on the outside leaves that are exposed to sunlight. Eventually, the pigments will fade, and leaves fall. Early freezing temperatures or frost will stop the coloration process and

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

sometimes blacken leaves before they reach peak coloration. If you’d like to add plants that provide a great fall display, consider the following: Shrubs — Amercian beautyberry, bottlebrush buckeye, rabbiteye blueberries, oakleaf hydrangea, chokeberry, fothergilla, sumac, Witch Hazel, spicebush, and Korean spice viburnum Trees — Chinese pistache, red oak, yellowwood, black gum, redbud, persimmon, dogwood, serviceberry, gingko, Japanese stewartia, bald cypress, and maple

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Preparing Your Hair for

Colder Weather By Savanna Morrison

[Lifestyle] Many of us spent time this past spring and summer preparing our hair for fun in the sun: we added bright highlights, got a conditioning treatment, and kept our hair away from pools and the ocean. Those warmer months have passed, and now Thanksgiving and Christmas are on the horizon, meaning lots of holiday pictures. Colder weather leads to less moisture in the air, resulting in locks becoming dry, brittle, and frizzy. Read the tips below to make sure your ‘do stays fresh and healthy through the holidays and beyond:

Moisture

A Fresh Haircut

During the summer, we complain about high humidity and its effect on our hair. Then fall and winter comes, and our hair begs for an ounce of moisture. To keep hair nourished and moisturized, focus on products with lipids and proteins. Lipids stimulate natural oil production, while proteins allow for nourishment to reach the hair follicle. Both of these lock in moisture that hair needs without weighing it down.

Though a new haircut can be daunting, making sure your hair is healthy and properly trimmed will offer a world’s worth of magic to your look. Much like a flower needs pruning, your hair needs trimming! This allows for nutrients to work their magic by nourishing the hair that is healthy rather than trying to overcompensate for the unhealthy hair at your ends.

Revitalization

Though the temperatures are dropping, that doesn’t mean we have to give up on our hair goals. Maintaining hair health is important because when your hair feels good — you feel good! L

Our hair can start looking as dull and bleak as the withering foliage around us. Both coconut and argan oil are perfect remedies for hair that needs a little pick-me-up. These oils add shine and moisture to the hair, leaving it smooth and full of life. They also help with a dry, itchy, and imbalanced scalp. Coconut oil has antibacterial properties, aiding in the health of your hair and scalp, while argan oil acts as a UV protectant.

Growth and Strength Hair can sometimes stagnate in growth during the winter and shed even more than usual. To help promote hair growth and strength, focus on products with biotin and creatine. These naturally occurring compounds promote growth by penetrating the follicle and adding protein back into the hair. By strengthening the follicle itself, hair becomes less prone to split ends and breakage. Biotin and creatine also help regrowth come in healthier and stronger.

Savanna Morrison is an experience coordinator at Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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Southern Phoenix Services

Get A Grip

On Your Drips A

simple leak can be expensive since a dripping faucet washes money down the drain. However, water is the No. 1 cause of home damage, and anyone who’s experienced a broken or clogged pipe probably won’t forget about it anytime soon. When we need a plumber, we often need one right away. By Murphy’s Law, a household crisis will happen at night or on the weekend — when most companies are closed. It’s important for homeowners to know a trustworthy local plumbing company that offers 24/7 emergency services. Southern Phoenix Services understands how frantic those circumstances can be. The company not only responds when needed but also keeps customers informed throughout the entire process.

A Can-Do, Figure-It-Out Attitude This Marietta-based company is set apart from other plumbing services for an interesting reason: it’s female-owned. Julie Guy is the founder and owner. Guy says she also serves as dispatcher and scheduler but adds, “I’m known by the staff as ‘Mama Hen.’”

How does a woman excel in this typically man’s world of plumbing? “Having three older brothers and a dad who fixed literally everything made me want to do and learn all the hands-on things they were doing. If I didn’t know how to do something, I learned to figure it out. To this day, I am constantly researching and learning new things,” says Guy.

Guy’s introduction to the plumbing world came to her as a growth opportunity more than eight years ago when she used her freelance marketing skills to help a friend with his company. “In my position as business development manager, I excelled by learning not only the plumbing trade but also how to run a successful business — from top to bottom,” she explains. After helping that company grow, Guy realized it was time to start her own. “Joining an already existing company and starting one from scratch are two very different things,” she says.

Guy forged a course toward a self-made future and named her company Southern Phoenix Services to represent both the city of Atlanta and the mythical bird that symbolizes overcoming obstacles. Continuous A+ Ratings and Growth The company is now family-owned since Guy’s son, Albert, joined her in the business last year. Southern Phoenix Services has grown from an initial staff of two employees to a team of eight with three service trucks. This company has expanded its residential plumbing services across north metro Atlanta to the cities of Woodstock, Canton, Roswell, Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Acworth, Powder Springs, and Hiram. Southern Phoenix Services takes pride in being a woman-owned business. Under Julie Guy’s leadership, with her fierce commitment to integrity, this licensed and

Southern Phoenix Services in Marietta serves the greater Atlanta metro area including Cherokee, Cobb, North Fulton, and Paulding counties. 20

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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COVER STORY

By Patti Richter

insured company stands behind every technician's work. Continuing education for the staff (including Guy) contributes to the company’s growing reputation for being the place to call to get a job done right. Employees are provided with the latest up-to-date information on constantly changing equipment, material, and plumbing codes. Last year, Southern Phoenix received multiple customer service awards across the metro area including Angie’s List Super Service Award 2020, which comes from gathering continuous “A+” ratings from customers. “Repeat customers and referrals make up 48% of our business,” Guy says. This company is also community focused. Julie Guy’s motto is, “Always Pay It Forward.” Each month, Southern Phoenix Services donates to local charities or organizations in need of help or encouragement. Giving projects have included comfort items for nursing home residents, necessities for children in foster care, and back-to-school flowers and gift cards for teachers.

“We make ‘giving back’ a priority,” Guy says.

A Wide Range of Services Southern Phoenix offers a plethora of residential plumbing services: miscellaneous repairs, installation of water lines, video camera inspection of drain and sewer pipes, replacement and repairs on sewer pipes, sump pumps, and foundation or slab leaks. “Our team has the latest video equipment to properly diagnose problems,” says Guy. General plumbing services include sinks, showers, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, water heaters, sewer and water line replacements, and entire house pipe replacement. The company also offers gas services, from leak detection to gas lines run for grills and outdoor cooktops.

Employees are fully trained for all tankless and regular water heater issues: inspections, replacements, and maintenance solutions. Guy says they receive in-house continuing education with various manufacturers’ representatives coming every other month. “Knowledge is power, and our Southern Phoenix technicians like to be fully prepared to help with our customers’ plumbing needs,” Guy says.

Visit the website for informative articles on water heaters, pinhole leaks, frozen pipes, sump pumps, and clogged drains. While there, be sure to check out the monthly specials.

Marietta, GA

770-455-2700 SouthernPhoenixServices.com Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

FamilyLife Publications.com

Public Safety

IMPORTANT INFORMATION About Domestic Violence Crimes By District Attorney Shannon Wallace

t’s hard to believe that long ago some people considered domestic violence a justifiable act and felt it was not their place to get involved in a private family matter. Fortunately, those beliefs have changed in modern times, and laws now protect victims and punish abusers. Today, many concerned citizens are aware of the signs of abusive relationships. Local law enforcement agencies have the training and experience to thoroughly investigate domestic violence. And the District Attorney’s Office has a dedicated staff to handle the prosecution of these crimes. Together, we can help victims become survivors.

When Manipulation Leads to Dangerous Acts An abusive relationship often starts with manipulation and control that gets worse over time, increasing so gradually that victims are barely aware of how bad things have gotten. As time passes, victims may find that abusers control most aspects of their lives including tracking movements by stalking. Many victims suffer emotional, psychological,

and financial abuse, in addition to being physically assaulted and even strangled. “Strangulation” means impeding the normal breathing or circulation of blood of another person by applying pressure to the throat or neck of such person or by obstructing the nose and mouth of such person.* Injuries left by these attacks may be invisible, even in cases when the victim nearly dies. A victim who survives one attack is likely to be strangled again, and the next time might result in death. This is why strangulation is a felony in Georgia.

Criminal Prosecution Prosecution of these crimes can be challenging because some victims do not wish to proceed through the judicial system. Usually, the person who is hurting them is someone they love. However, without intervention, violence can escalate, and children often are involved as well. In 2020, our dedicated Domestic Violence Unit received 214 new felony cases of intimate partner violence in Cherokee County.

A Night to Honor Victims and Survivors October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. On the 26th, take time to honor victims and survivors of domestic violence at a candlelight vigil. Hosted by the Cherokee County Domestic Violence Task Force, in partnership with the Cherokee Family Violence Center, the candlelight vigil will be held at 6:00pm at the Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

Where To Get Help If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, help is available. 1. Call 911 if in danger. 2. Call the Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-33-HAVEN (42836). 3. Contact the Cherokee Family Violence Center for emergency shelter and transitional housing, CFVC.org. The District Attorney’s Office remains proactive in our response to these crimes. In addition to our Domestic Violence Unit, we are active participants in the Cherokee County Domestic Violence Task Force, which meets monthly. Through effective prosecution, we can help victims escape the cycle of violence and become survivors of this terrible crime. *

O.C.G.A. § 16-5-19

Shannon Wallace is the district attorney for Cherokee County. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office

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The Ultimate Children’s Fall Activity List By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[AcademicLife] Fall is here, and a new season means innovative and exciting ways to teach, learn, and explore. Make the most of autumn with your little one by trying out some of these seasonal-inspired activities! • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Pack a healthy and nutritious lunch for a picnic in the park. Rake a pile of leaves for your little one to jump and play in. Have a popcorn, pajamas, and a movie day while watching family-favorite Halloween films. Visit the library for books about Halloween and Thanksgiving. Have your children make a list of things they’re thankful for. Go on a nature walk around your neighborhood. Visit a pumpkin patch, carve a jack-o'-lantern, and let small children explore their senses by allowing them to play with the mushy insides. Create a cardboard tube bird feeder with your children and then watch and write down all the different birds you see. Make homemade Halloween or Thanksgiving cards to send to grandparents. Bake and decorate fall cookies, pies, and cupcakes together. Visit a farm and go on a hayride. Play hide-and-seek inside the house at night with glowsticks. Let children create imaginative and spooky Halloween art. Attend a fall festival or county fair. Create or shop for a Halloween costume. Make a delicious soup together and pretend you are mixing a magic potion. Drink warm apple cider or hot chocolate with lots of marshmallows on a cold day. Organize a fun scavenger hunt in the backyard. Gather the family outside by a bonfire or in the kitchen to make s’mores after dinner. Go to an apple orchard to pick your own apples. Snuggle up by the fireplace and tell creative stories. Visit a local museum or arboretum to experience one-of-akind fall exhibits for children and families. Explore a corn maze that is suitable for children. Go trick-or-treating.

Whatever you decide to do this fall, have fun and stay safe!

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

6739 Bells Ferry Road Woodstock, GA 30189 678-483-5995 4035 Canton Road Marietta, GA 30066 770-928-0006 Alpha-Omega-Auto.com

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Senator Speaks

Individually Created By State Senator Bruce Thompson

ears ago, I participated in a forensic class and was amazed to discover how unique each person truly is. I knew that each of our fingers has a unique print, but I was surprised to discover that no two people have the same fingerprints including identical twins. When you consider that each cell in our body contains over 20,000 genes, it is not difficult to conclude our genetic makeup is very special. I recently attended a Braves game with my staff. The stadium was packed on that particular evening, and I was wearing a yellow shirt. About midway through the game, I was surprised to receive a picture via text from a friend who was sitting clear across the stadium. The picture was of me sitting in my seat with the caption, “I see you!” The

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

fact that he could pick me out of a crowd of 50,000 was amazing, but I guess my yellow shirt stood out in the sea of people. The grind of life can wear us down to the point that we no longer feel special. It is during these times that we need to remember that God promises us that he considers each one of us special and unique. Although the average human head has over 100,000 hairs — unless you have my bald head — we are reminded, “And the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a multitude of sparrows,” (Luke 12:17). The Bible is very clear that each of us is created in God’s image, and that we are a very special creation to him. In Isaiah 49:16,

we are told that we have been engraved in the palms of his hands, and in Ephesians 2:10, we are told, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We were not created in batches like you would bake cookies or on an assembly line like a car. Instead, we are individually created by God with a specific identity and purpose unlike anyone else. That makes us special!

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

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Book Review BY JESSICA ORAVEC

FA IT HF UL FAM I LI E S CREATING SACRED MOMENTS AT HOME

a minister to children and families, I am always on the lookout for resources that help families talk about faith at home. Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home, by Traci Smith, focuses on finding God in the everyday as well as in the special moments. It begins with creating traditions for daily life, offering a blessing at bedtime, preparing for the day to come, offering grace at mealtimes, marking the passage of time, and celebrating the Sabbath. These traditions are wonderful things to begin doing with young children but can also be adapted for older children and teenagers. Next, Smith focuses on “Traditions for Holidays and Holy Days.” These traditions can be built upon year after year, as your child grows. They are wonderful ways to incorporate faith into special occasions. Smith then covers ceremonies that mark life’s transitions such as moving to a new home, the first day of school, getting a driver’s license, etc. Smith also includes ceremonies to help children with difficult transitions such as the death of a loved one, the death of a pet, a traumatic event, or divorce. She even includes a ceremony to help children cope with anxiety. The final part of the book covers spiritual practices. Smith helps children discover different ways to pray such as photo prayers, prayer beads, prayer walks, and candle prayers. Then, she focuses on ancient spiritual practices and how we can teach those to our children. Smith also includes other spiritual practices such as listening car rides, being a secret helper, and planting surprises. Whether you read the book all the way through or take each practice one at a time as a family, Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home is a wonderful resource for parents to teach their children new ways to look for God.

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

Avoid a Furnace on the

“Fritts” This Fall By Anna Teal

Georgians, we all know that the scorching August heat can be brutal. But, as summertime comes to an end and the blissful breezes of fall start to make their way into our atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about preparing your HVAC unit for winter. In fact, doing so can avoid unpleasant surprises that can often wreck your budget and the coveted comforting vibes in your home. Unfortunately, it’s something that the Fritts Heating & Air team sees all too often.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

Why Invest in Furnace Maintenance Services? It is common to only think about HVAC system and maintenance needs in the springtime, as most people do not like to be hot and sweaty by the time summer rolls around. However, prepping a furnace for the winter is just as important as preparing the A/C unit for those hot summer months. Here are a few reasons why:

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To Decrease Risk Most furnaces go unused for about six months or so. Immediately jumpstarting the furnace without a tune-up or inspection increases the risk of something going wrong. For Damage/Repair Cost Savings Being proactive by scheduling a furnace inspection can result in significant savings compared to being reactive after damage occurs. For Increased Efficiency Conducting a yearly furnace check-up can increase its efficiency by up to 25%. For Utility Bill Savings Over time, a furnace will have a certain amount of buildup and wear-and-tear if not serviced. The more buildup, the harder it is for a furnace to function, which results in increased utility bills. For Safety and Comfort Now more than ever, our home is our haven. The last thing anyone wants is to be uncomfortable or to sacrifice the safety of his/her loved ones to a furnace on the “Fritts.”

A Family-Owned Business With more than 20 years of experience, it’s fair to say that Fritts Heating & Air is a family affair. With Sara Fritts and her husband Sid at the helm, and their daughter Haley assisting on the customer service front, the HVAC genes run deep — and the family connection vibe doesn’t end there. It extends to how the staff treats customers, which is apparent from the company’s glowing Google reviews (be sure to check them out!). So, what makes Fritts Heating & Air stand out from other HVAC companies? The staff is experienced and trustworthy, and the services are cost-efficient. “Our business is smaller than most, which makes it more intimate,” says Sara. “Our customers love that about us, and it’s what keeps them coming back.” Also, the Fritts family’s dedication to customer service is well stated in their motto, “Use it until it dies.”

How Fritts Heating & Air Can Help Speaking of Fritts, the Fritts family not only takes care of furnace maintenance needs for their customers, but also serves as a trusted source for all things HVAC in their community year-round. Specialties include heating repair for standard and high-efficiency furnaces, heat pump repair, air handlers, and air conditioner repair. Fritts’ team can also help install smart thermostats and offer various solutions to improve air quality, including Aprilaire electronic air purifiers, as well as whole-house dehumidifiers and humidifiers. Fritts Heating & Air services the residential and commercial communities of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Waleska, and Woodstock.

“To keep our customers’ best interests at the forefront of our motto, we try our best to fix whatever is wrong with an HVAC unit before we recommend replacing it,” says Sara. That is good news for those who have dealt with larger companies that simply want to upsell a new unit. Needless to say, many loyal residential customers know and trust Fritts Heating & Air with the comfort and efficiency of their home year-round. To learn how to stay comfortable and cozy at home with Fritts Heating & Air, visit the company’s website to read about the vast array of services offered. For those wishing to schedule an appointment, please give Fritts Heating & Air a call.

155 Wes Walker Memorial Drive, Suite 400 Ball Ground, GA 30107

678-327-3897

FrittsHeatingAndAir.com Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and Hickory Flat

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Filmed in Cherokee

Hollywood in Your Backyard By Abigail Smithwick, COED Intern

[StrategicLife] Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), in collaboration with Black Airplane, developed the Filmed in Cherokee app to showcase the county’s diverse array of filming locations. This summer, I used the app to plan film road trips with family and friends. The free app allows users to plan a “Hollywood” tour without leaving Georgia, or even their hometown. It provides a map of fan-favorite filming locations, fun behind-the-scenes facts, as well as background information on why the production team chose to film in Cherokee. Whether users are going on a family trip, a day out with friends, or a short detour on their way home, the app allows them to create a unique tour around the county. The first stop on my family’s tour was P and KC Store, where Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings was filmed. Next, we visited The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, where Anna Kendrick crashed Santa’s sleigh in the holiday film, Noelle. For dinner, we went to J.D.’s on the Lake, aka the Blue Cat Lodge from the show, Ozark. On the way home, we stopped by the former Canton Grammar School, a Hidden Figures filming location. On the tour with friends, we visited different locations. Being Stephen King fans, The Outsider and Doctor Sleep were at the top of our list. At the request of a medical drama-loving friend, we also went to Blankets Creek, featured in The Resident. We wrapped up our tour at the Ball Ground Burger Bus, which was the filming location for Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made. We even sat in the same spot as the main character, Timmy. It’s fun and easy to make your own tours. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

The Family Tour Noelle, Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, Champion, and Hidden Figures

The Feature Film Tour Doctor Sleep, Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, American Made, The Founder, and Hidden Figures

The Food Tour (filming locations at or near restaurants) Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made (The Burger Bus), Ozark (J.D.’s on the Lake), Heartstrings (downtown Canton, specifically Bizarre Coffee), and Noelle (The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta) The app is continuously updated as projects are released, so check back for new films and TV shows. In addition to offering entertainment, the app also connects users to the production process. Check out the “Get Involved” section to become an extra or list a property or business as a potential filming location. Users can also list their business as a support service for film teams to reference. COED’s Cherokee Film Summit is another way to get involved. Set to return in early 2022, the Summit connects our community with pros from Georgia’s thriving film industry.

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org

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| October 2021

Due to COED’s efforts, the number of projects filmed in 2021 is already expected to surpass all previous records, providing more opportunities for local film professionals and a tremendous boost to the local economy. For more information on the Filmed in Cherokee app or the Film Summit, visit CherokeeGa.org. L Add

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Woodmont Golf & Country Club

Canton’s Hidden Gem

lthough recognized for 18 holes of championship golf, which was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Woodmont Golf & Country Club is so much more! We invite you to discover the exceptional options for your private event. Woodmont Golf & Country Club’s Specialties:  Eat, Drink, and Be Married! Courtyard Weddings and Receptions Wedding Rehearsal Dinners Bridesmaid Luncheons Bridal Showers Groomsmen Outings  Baby Showers  Business Meetings and Seminars  Holiday and Birthday Parties

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

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, the Club’s calendar is filling up fast. Reserve your event for up to 50 people in Cherokee Hall on a Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday, and your room rental will be waived — a $1,200 savings. For additional information, please call Judy Slater, private events director, at 770-345-9260 x2 or email Judy.Slater@woodmontgolfclub.com.

Woodmont Golf & Country Club 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton, GA 30115 770-345-9260  WoodmontGolfClub.com Hours of Operation Sunday 11:00am-7:00pm Sunday Brunch 10:30am-2:00pm Monday-Tuesday 11:00am-7:00pm Wednesday-Friday 11:00am-9:00pm Saturday 10:30am-7:00pm

FamilyLife Publications.com

y r r a B n o t l a D E

ducation is the family business for Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy PE teacher Barry Dalton. He was born into a family of educators, including his mom, who is a 41-year teacher. Dalton heard the calling in high school, when a teacher and wrestling coach named Steve Lattizori made a positive impact in his life, setting in motion Dalton’s now 14-year career as an educator. “Coach Latt set an incredible example of being both a great educator in the classroom and an amazing coach in the wrestling room, by demonstrating how to form real relationships with his students and athletes,” said Dalton, who was named Hasty’s Teacher of the Year and the Cherokee County School District’s (CCSD) Teacher of the Year in 2019. “This example helped me realize that teaching and coaching were my calling.” Dalton carries on his favorite teacher’s legacy by focusing on creating “caring, meaningful relationships” with students to encourage their participation in learning. “In my opinion, without trusting relationships, students will struggle to learn what is being taught,” he said. “As a physical educator, I have the privilege of reaching and impacting every student in the school. The physical education setting provides me with opportunities to teach students about

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

personal responsibility, problem solving, cooperation, collaboration, perseverance, healthy living, and how to win and lose with integrity. I believe that these real-life skills are imperative for students to know, as they grow up and take on the challenges presented by the real world.” One example of this is the student-led sports education model he uses for fourth and fifth graders. At the beginning of the school year, aka “season,” students are assigned to a team and then work collaboratively to create a team name, color, and chant; learn the rules of the game; and assign team members to different roles (i.e., coach, fitness instructor, referee, scorekeeper, equipment manager, reporter, etc.). Students sign a code of conduct and agree to treat others with kindness, show good sportsmanship, and perform their roles to the best of their abilities. The “season” culminates with a tournament during which students are expected to demonstrate this code.

Teacher Feature BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

his third- through fifth-grade students can participate in organized soccer practices and games with expert instruction from partners at Cherokee Impact. With his assistant principal, Dalton wrote a winning grant to earn $10,000 to build the “Path to Becoming” walking track at the school. What can parents do to help their children be successful at school? “Parents can help their children succeed at school by becoming engaged in their child’s interests and learning,” Dalton said. “Parents can also provide their children with routines and structure at home, which focus on keeping them healthy through proper nutrition, sleep, limited screen time, and opportunities to engage in daily physical activity. I believe many students are not getting enough sleep due to the increased use of technology, so I challenge parents to be proactive when it comes to removing technology at bedtime. For students to be ready to engage in learning at school, they need to be provided with support at home.”

“Through this model, I have seen true student engagement and higher levels of learning,” Dalton said. Dalton succeeds in his mission not only through classroom lessons, but also through his service beyond the school day. Through the Hasty United Soccer Club,

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

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eng

eS Juli

It’s finally that glorious time of year when the average temperatures in north Georgia drop to between 52-74 degrees (Weather.US.com), and cool breezes begin to sweep through the trees to stir their array of beautiful autumn colors. Whether you prefer to cozy up to the warm fireplace in your home or gather with friends and family around a crackling outdoor firepit, it’s always nice to have a cuppa Joe to sip while reading a book, watching TV, or chatting with cronies and loved ones.

Crockpot Vanilla Latte

Here are some yummy coffee recipes for you to try, all of which can be made with regular or decaf coffee, depending upon your personal preference.

For those who need to serve a small crowd.

Chai Coffee For those who like to spice things up a bit. 1 cup coffee grounds 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon cardamom ¼ teaspoon nutmeg • • •

In a small bowl, mix all ingredients together. Add the mixture to a coffee filter and brew. Makes one full pot.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

4 cups milk of your choice 2 cups very strong brewed coffee ½ cup vanilla coffee syrup Whipped cream for garnish (optional) • • •

• •

Add milk, coffee, and syrup to a crockpot that holds at least 2 quarts. Cook on high until the mixture is heated through but not boiling. Put the crockpot on the warm or low setting to keep the latte at a nice temperature for 2-3 hours and stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t scald. Use a ladle to pour coffee into individual mugs and top with whipped cream. Makes six cups.

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Dalgona Whipped Coffee

Pumpkin Spice Latte For those who would like to save money at Starbuck’s this season.

For those who prefer their coffee creamy, light, and airy. 2 tablespoons instant coffee grounds Sugar or sugar substitute to taste 2 tablespoons hot water 12-16 ounces of milk of your choice • • •

•

Combine the instant coffee and sugar in a bowl. Add the hot water to the mixture and use a hand mixer to whip the coffee until it has doubled in size. Pour your milk of choice into a glass and top with the whipped coffee (milk can be cold or warm). You can also use a straw or spoon to stir the whipped coffee into the milk. Makes two small cups or one large serving.

Frozen Coffee Slushie

1 cup milk of your choice 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon sugar or sugar substitute ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus extra for garnish ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ cup hot espresso or very strong brewed coffee Whipped cream for garnish •

• •

For those unseasonably warm fall days we’re prone to have in Georgia. • 2 cups brewed coffee, chilled ¼ cup half and half Sugar or sugar substitute to taste Whipped cream for garnish • • • • •

Pour 1 ½ cups of chilled coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze. Store the other ½ cup of coffee in the refrigerator. Put half of the frozen coffee cubes in a blender with the half and half, sugar, and the refrigerated coffee. Blend well. Add the remaining coffee cubes to the blender and mix until fully combined. Pour the slushies into cute mason jar mugs and garnish with whipped cream. Makes two servings.

Nutella Coffee For those who enjoy nutty, chocolatey deliciousness in their coffee. 3 cups brewed coffee 1 cup half and half, cream, or milk of your choice ½ cup sugar or sugar substitute ¼ cup Nutella Whipped cream and chocolate syrup for garnish •

• •

Add the coffee, half and half, sugar, and Nutella to a saucepan over medium-low heat and stir until the Nutella melts, all ingredients are well combined, and the mixture is hot but not boiling. Divide the mixture into four mugs and top each with whipped cream and chocolate syrup. Makes four cups.

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

•

Add the milk, pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, sugar, and vanilla in a microwave safe bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap, but be sure to make a small hole in the plastic for venting. Microwave the mixture on high until the milk is hot (about 1-2 minutes). Whisk the mixture until it is foamy (about 30 seconds). Pour the espresso/coffee into a large mug, add the milk mixture, and top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. Makes one serving.

Homemade Coffee Creamer Instead of buying flavored creamers with preservatives and other things you may not be able to pronounce, make your own by combining 1 cup of your preferred type of milk with 1 cup of heavy cream. You can then experiment by adding dashes of spices, extracts, and flavored syrups of your choice. Here are a few suggestions: • • • • •

Almond, Peppermint, or Vanilla Extract Cinnamon, Nutmeg, or Pumpkin Spice Cocoa Powder Honey Maple Syrup

FamilyLife Publications.com

ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Raymond Pickens

Photos courtesy of Joseph Taylor

Taking His Shot at Pop Art Painting

aymond Pickens likes to paint people. In fact, he remembers drawing people at church when he was a young child of 4 or 5 years old. Today, he fills large canvasses with “pop” style renditions of faces that capture his imagination. He finds his inspiration almost anywhere, from images of celebrities to faces he sees on Google, Pinterest, or just walking down the street. “Everyone has a unique look,” Pickens said. “I see something I like, and I think I’ll put a twist to it. That’s when the process begins.” Despite his early interest in drawing, Pickens didn’t seriously pursue art as a student at Cherokee HS or Reinhardt University. Instead, he was known for his ability to hit three pointers as a shooting guard at both schools. He did receive encouragement from his parents and from his middle school art teacher, Penny Stumler Stone, who told him to follow his gift and his instincts. Though he took a few art classes in college,

Pickens did not begin painting again until three years ago.

learning process for me when it comes to color.”

“I just decided one day, ‘I feel like painting,’ and I haven’t stopped since,” he said.

To add texture and depth, especially to his backgrounds or to lines and shapes that he wants to accentuate, Pickens uses a palette knife to apply varying amounts of paint. To achieve a grungy, shadowy look, he applies charcoal using his fingers.

Since he works full-time, Pickens paints when he gets home and on weekends. Once he begins a painting, he keeps going for hours, often until the painting is completely finished. “But the planning in my head,” he said, “could take weeks.” To create his pop style, Pickens works on large canvasses because “they make a bigger statement.” He explained that he starts with the darker tones, using them to create his guidelines and frame his image. These contrasts capture the viewer’s eye and guide it to the key facets of his subject’s features. “I like capturing different values in the gray scale. That contrast is what separates my work from realism,” he said. “You get an image that you can recognize, but it’s very different from what you see when looking at something.” Predominantly using acrylics, Pickens has a broad palette, which is continuing to evolve. “My earlier works were black and white. I’ve just recently used more color. It’s still a

Canton Family Life

“I don’t want to guide how people respond. I want people to like my paintings for what they say to them,” he said. “I want people to think and feel what they see when they look at my work, not force anyone to see what I see in it.” While Pickens has only recently considered himself an artist, his dream is to be able to paint full-time. Painting takes him back to the calling he felt when he was a boy. “That’s where the enjoyment comes from. There’s a freedom about it. Once I get the face, I’m free. I’m not worried about technique. I just put it down the way I think it will work. There are no rules. When I’m painting for myself, the hours don’t feel like hours. They just fly.”

To see more of Pickens’ work, visit Facebook.com/Raymond Pickens or raypicks.art on Instagram.

Who Will Cr y

Although he might think about a subject for weeks before he starts painting, Pickens doesn’t begin a work with a specific message in mind, nor does he usually title his works.

| October 2021

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Faith Over Fear By Minister Zip Cain

[InGoodFaith] We live in a world that has many people fearful of all kinds of things: the fear of contracting COVID-19, the fear of judgement over wearing a mask or not, the fear of expressing political views, the fear of losing a job, the fear of losing a family member — the list goes on and on. These fears can lead to anxiety, depression, seclusion, anger, and many other things that can cause us to be reclusive. But we can have faith knowing that God is with us and for us, loves us, and knows exactly what each of us are going through every second of the day. There are many passages in the Bible that strengthen and uphold the faith that we all desperately need; here are just a few:

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand,” (Isaiah 41:10). “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go,” (Joshua 1:9). “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 4:19). We’re all going to be fearful at times — it is a natural emotion. But we have a God that is holding it all in his hands, and we can have faith no matter what. Our Father will always be there to comfort us through anything. So, if you don’t have a relationship with God and are overwhelmed with the effects caused by fear, please reach out to one of the local pastors in our community and ask them to help you know the one you can turn to every second of your day for peace, comfort, and hope. L

Zip Cain is the missions minister at Revolution Church, 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton. 770-345-2737. Revolution.church

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Quotables “Most people need love and acceptance much more than they need advice.” -Bob Goff

“Vulnerability is not weakness. It’s our greatest measure of courage.” -Brene Brown

“On disappointment, don’t immediately brush it off. Feel it first, and then it will leave you quicker. Here’s the thing about broken glass — it needs to be acknowledged and swept up, so you don’t step on it later.” -Victoria Erikson

“Our culture has accepted two huge lies. The first is that if you disagree with someone’s lifestyle, you must fear or hate them. The second is that to love someone means you agree with everything they believe, say, or do. Both are nonsense. You don’t have to compromise convictions to be compassionate.” -Dave Chappelle

“The greatest weakness of most humans is their hesitancy to tell others how they love them while they’re alive.” -Optimus Prime

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

“Our world is not divided by race, color, gender, or religion. Our world is divided into wise people and fools, and fools divide themselves by race, color, gender, or religion.” -Mohamad Safa

“Fool is known by his speech and a wise man by his silence.”

-Pythagoras

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Danger Signs That Your Roof Is Failing

By Juan Reyes

[HomeLife] There are certain warning signs that may indicate that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Pay attention to these eight danger signs to ensure that your home maintains weatherproof safety and security to protect your family and belongings. 1. Missing or loose shingles may occur during a severe storm or because a roof is getting old. A roof with several missing or loose shingles won’t protect a home properly. 2. Dry, blistering, cracking, or curling shingles are likely reaching the end of their life, which means it’s time for a new roof. 3. Interior water damage such as stained or sagging interior walls or ceilings often indicate roof damage. Mildew and mold can point to inadequate roof ventilation. 4. Damaged or missing flashing, which is used to connect varying components to a roof, can cause water to leak into the home. 5. Overflowing gutters can stem from an issue with the gutters, but they can also stem from an issue with the roof. Also, keep an eye out for water that collects around the foundation. 6. Lots of granules in the gutters mean that the roof must be replaced. Granules protect shingles from UV rays while adding weight to keep them safe during strong winds. 7. Dark or dirty areas on the roof can point to fungus, algae growth, environmental pollutants, vegetation, or loss of protective granules. 8. A sagging roof isn’t functioning properly. Watch for sagging on the slope or ridges as well as between the rafters in the attic. Safety First! When you are looking for signs of damage to your roof, always utilize safety standards (OSHA offers easily accessed guidelines at OSHA.com). If you do not have the proper safety equipment, inspect the roof from the ground. You can use binoculars for a closer look or hire a professional roofing company.

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

Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations

The Children’s Haven, Inc. Playground 1083 Marietta Highway Canton 770-345-3274 Private Adaptive Playground

Atlanta Roof Solutions Serving Cherokee County 404-431-2422 Roofing Contractors

YogaSix BridgeMill 3760 Sixes Road, Unit 118 Canton 770-274-6372 Health and Fitness

The Original Hot Dog Factory 6234 Holly Springs Parkway Suite D-12 Holly Springs Restaurant/Catering Services

Holly Springs Town Center 164 Hickory Road Holly Springs 770-345-5536 City Government

TwelveStone Health Partners 125 Oakside Court, Suite 201 Canton 844-893-0012 Health Care

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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GO FOR THE GREEN Benefits of Community Greenspace By Kelley Archer

[Lifestyle] Residents of planned communities enjoy a lifestyle that’s intrinsically connected to nature — a breath of fresh air for those who appreciate the everyday beauty of the great outdoors. These communities are intentionally designed for access and connection to a variety of natural amenities such as ponds, trails, and parks. Communities surrounded by protected greenspace are always steps away from the great outdoors and the many benefits it provides. Residents of communities surrounded by nature:

 Have direct access to greenspace just outside their front door, improving moods and often lowering levels of daily stress and anxiety.  Enjoy the many benefits of living an active lifestyle, promoting health and longevity for families and neighbors.  Build strong connections with others through outdoor activities, providing a lasting and intrinsic sense of community. In the rolling hills of northern Georgia, there are communities with the perfect balance of nature and home, quiet and convenience. Some new home options in the region boast the stunning backdrop of beautiful views of both mountains and water. Other options might include miles of trails waiting to greet residents, as they explore the natural wilderness around each and every corner or shorelines to put in canoes and kayaks for an afternoon paddle. Communities where natural beauty and life-enhancing outdoor amenities mingle perfectly to create a peaceful, rewarding life for families, friends, and neighbors alike make the best places to live and raise a family. 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

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Advertiser Index Alpha & Omega Automotive

The Arbor at BridgeMill

Big Springs Farms

Canton Business Club

Capital Recovery Corporation

Inside Front

The Carpenter’s Shop

Cedarhurst Senior Living

Chattahoochee Tech

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Schmooza Palooza

Cherokee Children’s Dentistry

Darby Funeral Home, Inc.

Downtown Canton Cocktail Cruise

Etowah Film Festival

Fritts Heating & Air

26-27

GarageExperts 36 The Goddard School

Great Sky

Happy Eyes Optometry

Harmony Orthodontics

Inside Front

History Cherokee

Ireland Restorative Dentistry

Jyl Craven Hair Design

Back Cover

Killian Automotive

Landscape Matters

Mathnasium of Holly Springs

Mr. Handyman of Canton and Woodstock

PhotoJack.net

Inside Back

Red, White & Blue BBQ

Reinhardt University’s Born To Run 5K

Rock the Stock

Inside Back

St. George Village

ServiceWise Electric

Southern Phoenix Services

Cover, 20-21

Think Pink Cherokee County Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

Volume Hair & Lash Co.

Woodmont Golf & Country Club

Online ads link to advertisers’ websites.

Canton Family Life

| October 2021

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