Since February is usually the coldest month of the year, it’s nice that it brings us Valentine’s Day on the 14th, which gives us an additional excuse to snuggle up and stay warm with a special someone. And if you’re discussing romantic plans to celebrate the day with your significant other, hopefully you’re choosing to patronize Woodstock’s wonderful restaurants, retail establishments, and entertainment options to support local business owners and benefit our community.
Currently single? Or maybe Valentine’s Day just isn’t your thing? There’s no rule that this holiday can’t be about strengthening our relationships with our friends (hello, Galentine’s Day!), family, colleagues, or ourselves. So, feel free to make this day about self-care or nurturing your other connections.
If you’re looking for a tool to strengthen your relationships, check out this month’s feature about the Enneagram System on pages 20-21. It can give insight into people’s personalities, which can help us be better communicators — especially when it comes to having hard conversations.
Many of us avoid or put off having those hard conversations, but if we change our perspective and focus on what can happen on the other side of those necessary exchanges, it is a little easier to begin those talks — because not having important discussions can be detrimental.
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Julie Senger
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ART
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
Tiffany Corn
Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jack Tuszynski
PhotoJack.Net@Gmail.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
David Wright
David@FamilyLifePublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Steven Anderson, Charlice Byrd, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, James Lang, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Elaine Scott, Susan K. Treadaway
Family Life Magazines
6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
“Relationships stagnate in silence. Candor opens the door to growth.” -Adam Grant
So regardless of how or even if you celebrate Valentine’s Day this month, we can all focus on being better communicators. The only way forward is through. There’s no getting around that.
Have a fabulous February!
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
Family Life Magazines publishes the only monthly magazines in Cherokee County that reach more than 30,000 readers in print and digital formats — each issue, every month, with more direct-mailed copies sent to Cherokee County homes than any other local magazine.
The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Woodstock 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.
R
Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.
[Lifestyle] Have you noticed that signs in nature — like extra-bushy squirrel tails — are pointing to a long, cold winter this year? When a harsh winter strikes, your hair may take a hit, so your haircare routine should vary with the seasons. Here are five tips for keeping your hair healthy and vibrant until spring:
1
Wash your hair less often.
While nothing feels better than a nice steamy shower after a cold day, too-frequent hair washing can eliminate the natural oils that protect your hair from the cold. Regulate this delicate balance in the wintertime by washing hair less often, perhaps every other day.
Winter Survival Guide Five Essential Hair Care Tips
By Jyl Craven
2 3
Use a moisturizing conditioner.
Depending on your exposure to the elements, you may find that your hair still needs conditioning daily, even with less washing. If so, be sure to use a conditioner with extra moisturizing power.
Schedule a monthly deep conditioning treatment.
Winter is the time of year when deep conditioning treatments are imperative for almost everyone. Remember to make an appointment with your stylist for a monthly treatment, and you’ll really notice the difference come springtime. A conditioning treatment with concentrated amounts of protein, lipids, and glucose will provide maximum benefits for someone with dry hair.
4
Tell your mom she was right — and wrong.
You don’t actually catch a cold from going outside with a wet head (colds come from germs and weakened immune systems), but you can catch something even longer lasting than the rhinovirus: broken hair and split ends. Be sure to dry your hair completely before going outside, even if that means waking up earlier or washing your hair the night before.
5
Go shopping.
Speaking of damaging your hair, even mild exposure to the elements can leave your locks limp. Invest in a winter hat or scarf (natural fibers are best) to alleviate some possible damage. One more thing — never use a hat as an excuse to leave the house with a wet head. A hat on wet hair can damage your tresses even more. L
Jyl Craven is the owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com
FEBRUARY
1-10
Project Valentine — Every year, Cherokee Recreation & Parks collects the following Project Valentine donations: lip balm, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, art or music activities, candy (sugar free and regular), and other holiday related items. Donations are made into goody bags and delivered to Empower Cherokee, a nonprofit organization that serves the special needs community. Please drop off contributions to The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock, or Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. PlayCherokee.org
1-23
A Century of Toys: 100 Years of Play — View toys from the early 1900s to modern day, from beloved vintage treasures to contemporary favorites. 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 22 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
1-3/9
Terms & Conditions
Exhibit — View the SCAD MFA Thesis Exhibit by Woodstockbased Anna Noel, which explores our relationship to technology with fascinating and interactive pieces. 6:008:00pm, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock, 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
5 Using Demographics to Advance Your Small Business: Fresh Start Mornings — Kick off 2025 with Cherokee Office of Economic Development Vice President Heath Tippens, as he walks you through free demographic resources that can help you take control of your small business. FREE! 9:00am networking/9:15am program, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org/freshstartmornings
7-14
Downtown Woodstock’s
Valentine BINGO
Participants have a chance to win amazing deals and prizes while shopping at their favorite locally owned stores in downtown Woodstock. FREE! Hours vary by participating shop, downtown Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com
7-23
Local Artist Showcase — On the first Friday of each month, stop by for a FREE opening reception featuring the local artist whose artwork is on display in the Reeves House Education Studio. Meet the artist, enjoy a glass of wine, and sway to some live music. 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
YPOW AM — Young Professionals of Woodstock networking. 7:00-8:30am Thursdays, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
Community Yoga Classes — On Monday mornings, bring your own mat for a FREE yoga class. 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
Pride & Prejudice — Enjoy this classic story of Lizzy Bennet and her sisters in their quests for love, or in Lizzy’s case, to avoid it at all costs. Tickets are $20-$25. 7:30pm Fridays/Saturdays and 2:30pm Sundays, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
7 & 28
Parent’s Night Out — Kids will make arts and crafts, play in the pool, eat pizza, and watch a movie. The fee is $30 per child. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
ONGOING
The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty)
On the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, connect with individuals who fill grandparent roles and bring honor to Christ through grandparenting. 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
Adults With Aging Parents Seminar
Third Thursday of each month, 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events
Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group
Second Thursday of each month, 11:00am-1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.
8
19th Annual Guns & Hoses 5K Run/Walk
When registering, participants will choose the team they want to represent, and a portion of the fee will go to that agency’s charity. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office’s (Guns) charity is the Charlie Ferguson Community Center, and the Cherokee County Fire Department’s (Hoses) charity is the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch. This event is a qualifier for The Atlanta Journal and Constitution Peachtree Road Race. 8:00am, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
8
Roaring 20s Adult Prom — Dress in your best Roaring 20s attire and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, dancing, a silent and a live auction, and a wine pull. You must be 21+ to attend. Tickets are $100 per person or $190 per couple. The Speakeasy is an extra $25 per person. All proceeds benefit the Children’s Haven. 6:00-7:00pm Speakeasy and 7:00-10:00pm Prom, Timbers on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. 770-345-3274. CherokeeChildrensHaven.org
February Is
International Vegan Cuisine Month; National Bake for Family Fun, Bird Feeding, Black History, Cherry, Fasting February, Hot Breakfast, and Library Lovers Month; as well as North American Inclusion and Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
14
Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon
Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10. All proceeds support local seniors. 11:30am-1:00pm, Phoenix at Union Hill, 9651 Union Hill Road, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
18
9 Super Museum Sunday — The Cherokee County History Center is one of the many history, arts, and cultural sites around the state with FREE admission to the public as part of Georgia History Festival’s Super Museum Sunday. 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
13
The Lasting Laugh — Enjoy this hybrid comedy series that brings in two different Atlanta-based comedians monthly, hosted by Jessica It’s All Good. Tickets $10-$14, recommended for ages 12+ (content). 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
emPOWer — This Young Professionals networking event is designed to create relationships and spark personal development while having a great time. RSVP is required. FREE! 6:00-8:00pm, location TBD, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.glueup.com
20
WIT! — The Woodstock Arts Improv Troupe will have the audience rolling down the aisle with laughter! Tickets are $10-$14. 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting — First Thursday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/ Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month, 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. MilVetCommunity.com
American Legion Post 316 South Cherokee County Meeting — Third Thursday of each month, 7:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 706-726-2754. ALPost316Ga.org
Marine Corps League Detachment 1311 Meeting — Third Saturday of each month, 9:30am, Rally Point Grille, 9770 Main Street, Woodstock. 561-213-5699. Harry123130@gmail.com
HICKORY FLAT
2740 East Cherokee Drive Canton, 770-345-7565
ROSE CREEK
4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491
WOODSTOCK
7735 Main Street, Woodstock 770-926-5859
SUPER BOWL STORYTIME WITH THE BRUINS
February 4, 6:30pm, Rose Creek
Get ready for Super Bowl Sunday by joining Cherokee County Bruins football players for a special story time and craft. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
MAINTAINING FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY INTO SENIOR ADULTHOOD
February 5, 10:30am, Hickory Flat
Learn about the overwhelming benefits of everyday movement and other types of movement and the resources available for seniors, presented by Sara Skipper, a physical therapy assistant who is passionate about improving the lives of her senior patients.
FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
FOR MOM WITH MS. JODI
February 13, 4:30pm, Hickory Flat
Bring your mom and learn to make floral arrangements with Jodi Miller from the Southeastern Grasslands Institute. Registration is required.
THINKING MONEY — MONEY MOVERS
February 17, 3:00pm, Rose Creek
PERCY JACKSON LEGO LAB
February 8, 3:00pm, Rose Creek
Build a Monster, Camp Half-Blood Cabin, or quest gear. All LEGOs are provided.
WOODSTOCK UKULELE PLAYERS
February 11, 5:45pm, Woodstock
Do you play the ukulele? Want to make some music with friends? Then the Woodstock Ukulele Players group is perfect for you! All ages are welcome.
SENIORS GATHER & PAINT
February 13, 10:30am, Woodstock Seniors are invited to a special Valentine’s Day painting event. Valentine crafts, light refreshments, and treats will be provided.
DIY SCENTED SACHETS
February 13, 11:00am and 5:30pm, Rose Creek
Make your own scented sachet for drawers, closets, or to give to your loved one. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required — adults only.
Learn about U.S. coins and their worth, then test your currency recognition and money math skills in a movement-based activity inspired by the classic game, Twister! This program is recommended for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
ADULT WRITERS GROUP
February 18, 6:00pm, Woodstock
Each month, optional writing prompts are provided to inspire writing time. Participants are encouraged to share their writings in a supportive group. Bring your favorite writing tool and notebook/laptop, adults only.
COOKBOOK CLUB
February 22, 2:00pm, Hickory Flat
Cook your favorite recipe from this month’s cookbook and bring it along for snacks and chats! February’s cookbook is The French Market Cookbook by Clotilde Dusoulier. To ensure it matches the cookbook exactly and that all allergens can be accounted for, please do not alter the recipe during preparation.
continued from page 7
21
City of Woodstock Arbor Day Celebration — A variety of FREE tree seedlings will be available for attendees to pick up and plant in honor of Georgia’s Arbor Day. 8:00am-5:00pm, Woodstock City Hall, Woodstock Visitors Center, and William G. Long Senior Center, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
21 No Phone Family/Friends Fun Night! — In celebration of Terms & Conditions, the current exhibit that explores the intersection of technology and social interactions, play games with family and friends who want to enjoy an evening unplugged. The artist who supplied the works for the exhibit will have interesting curated questions for your group to discuss. FREE! 4:00-8:00pm, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
22 Sensory Friendly Saturday Designed for visitors with autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivities, museum patrons may explore the galleries with dimmed lighting and quieter audio, and they may also check out a sensory kit from the front desk (or feel free to bring one). 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288, HistoryCherokee.org
22
Mardi Gras Pub Crawl — Let the good times roll! Celebrate Mardi Gras in downtown Woodstock with a festive, fun-filled pub crawl. Visit the website for a list of participating restaurants and their un-bead-able Mardi Gras specials. 2:00-6:00pm, downtown Woodstock, 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com
27 Veterans Archery — Discover the thrill of archery! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the sport, this event is designed specifically for veterans to enjoy a fun and safe experience while learning lifelong skills, $5 per person. 6:00-7:15pm, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, #200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
You’re Invited to an Evening of
Pure Imagination
[Academic Life] On Saturday, March 8, the Northside Cherokee Conference Center will be transformed into ”A World of Pure Imagination,” as this year’s Willy Wonka-themed Cherokee County Educational Foundation Celebration of Education Gala occurs. The Gala, a black-tie optional event, is a significant opportunity for our community to gather to support our public schools. Last year, the event attracted 400 patrons and donors, and we hope to see even more this year.
The evening promises a diverse range of activities, from cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, dinner catered by 1885 Grill, performances by local artists Ethan Senger and Kurt Lee Wheeler, and a silent auction featuring various items such as sports memorabilia, travel opportunities, and more. Adding to the thrills, attendees may purchase Wonka candy bars to try and obtain the “golden ticket,” leading to a $10,000 cash-grab opportunity. The lucky winner will have 60 seconds in a cash machine to grab as much of the $10,000 as possible.
The Alumni of the Year Awards are a special part of the Gala, recognizing the outstanding contributions of former Cherokee County School District (CCSD) students. The awards are given to one male and one female who graduated from a CCSD school before 2018 and has contributed significantly to our community or the world at large
By Lisa-Marie Haygood
since completing high school. Last year’s recipients were Ken White of White Capital Group and Cherokee County School Board member Dr. Susan Padgett Harris. Nominations of deserving individuals for this prestigious recognition are encouraged.
Guests will enjoy dancing to a performance by the Ruperts Orchestra after the announcement of the Alumni of the Year Awards.
By sponsoring, purchasing a table or ticket, or making a nomination, you are not just participating in a memorable event but also contributing to a noble cause. All proceeds from the Gala will fund Classroom Impact Grants for CCSD teachers and students, which will help make a significant difference in their educational journeys. For more information, please visit CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org.
Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive director for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org
Community
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Etowah HS Teacher Named Top Agricultural Teacher in Nation
Teacher Ashley Rivers is one of only six teachers nationwide to win the 2024 National Association of Agricultural Educators’ Outstanding Agricultural Education Teacher Award. The honor recognizes teachers at the “pinnacle of their careers, conducting the highest quality agricultural education programs” and “rewards them for their excellence, leadership, and service in the agricultural education profession.”
An 18-year educator, Rivers leads Etowah’s Career Pathway agriculture programs, which she has grown to include both plant and floral design systems and companion animal systems.
AP Capstone Graduates Honored
Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone is a two-year project-based learning program designed to help students develop critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills crucial to college and career success. The premier program, which was developed by The College Board in partnership with colleges and universities, is offered in select high schools nationwide including Cherokee, Etowah, River Ridge, Sequoyah, and Woodstock High Schools.
(L-R) National Association of Agricultural Educators Region Vice President Nelson McCracken, Jen Danley of Tractor Supply Company, Outstanding Agricultural Education Teacher Award winner Ashley Rivers of Etowah HS, Vanessa Moczygemba of Tractor Supply Company, and National Association of Agricultural Educators President Eric Tilleman
Congratulations to the 2024 AP Capstone Honorees:
Only about 15,000 students nationwide earn the AP Capstone Diploma annually. Instead of a single end-of-year exam, the interdisciplinary AP Seminar and AP Research courses assess students’ knowledge mastery through group projects, presentations, and individual essays throughout the year.
To earn the AP Capstone Diploma, students must achieve scores of 3 or higher (on a scale of 1 to 5) in both AP Seminar and AP Research courses as well as on at least four AP course exams. Students who achieve scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four course exams earn the AP Seminar and Research Capstone Certificate.
Students who achieve a 3 or higher on an AP exam can qualify for college credit at most state colleges and universities, thereby avoiding college tuition payments for those classes.
Districtwide, 99% of the 163 CCSD students participating in the AP Seminar course last school year earned a passing score of 3 or higher; 92% of the 110 students participating in the AP Research course earned a passing score of 3 or higher.
Etowah HS – Diploma Honorees: Jonathan Acree, Jazlynn Bailey, Walker Baird, Parker Bishop, Olivia Bryan, Megan Busbee, Davis Clanton, Sydney Daniel, Logan Derenthal, Madison Dodd, Samantha Durst, Cristina Garcia, Grace Hedlund, Lisa Howe, Jack Kennard, Connor Lawlor, Jessica Lawlor, Kendall Lee, Elizabeth Lin, Charlotte Luina, Madeline May, Audrey Miller, Vanosha Moghaddasi, Temilola Oloruntoba, Mikayla Parks, Connor Pearson, Katherine Piroumian, Isabella Postel, Anvita Rautray, Shelby Rice, Bella Ruddock, Katie Shay, Dominic Slovisky, Lena Truan, Hailey Weiner, Naomi Williamson, and Lydia Wooley. Certificate Recipients: Sydney Allen, Stavroula Angelakos, Carson Carter, Christopher Jalbert, Lillian Schwartz, Anna Truan, and Jayla Turner
River Ridge HS – Diploma Honorees: Brianna Burke, Sallie Cobb, Giselle Kurtz, Hannah Mayfield, Samantha Mize, Hadley Moore, Stevie O’Connell, Emery Polk, Connor Schmitt, and Amelie Vogel. Certificate Recipient: Anna Rose
Sequoyah HS – Diploma Honorees: Colin Campbell, Hailey Collett, Sayler Davies, Peyton Fremin, Kaitlyn Hartman, Zachary Howell, Brooke Jacomine, Cayla Johnson, Jake Koster, Lilah Lathbury, Andrew Latimer, Claire Mathis, William Murphy, Jaxon Nesbitt, Sunny Nguyen, Anna Louise Panhorst, Alice Pelton, Jared Perry, Madison Rajecki, Jennifer Ramos-Hernandez, Stephanie P. Rios, Kristen Robinson, Kelsie Rohland, Nevaeh Roth, Asby Rowson, Olivia Sneed, Lauren Strommen, Parker Thran, Olivia Tomeny, and Cameron Williams. Certificate Recipients: Ella McClure, Jessica Ryan, Addy Sandt, Reece Sisson, Lauren Trujillo, Courtney Woodall, and Jake Young
COED Announces Departure of Longtime President and CEO
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) announces the departure of longtime President and CEO Misti Martin.
After serving COED for over two decades, Martin has shaped the organization into the cornerstone of community and business development. Since Martin began her tenure in early 2004 as the only full-time employee, her visionary leadership has grown COED into a multi-faceted economic development organization.
Throughout her 20+ years of service, Martin has worked with the COED boards to champion initiatives that provide opportunities for Cherokee County residents to live, play, and work in their home community. COED has taken a holistic approach to serving the community through recruitment of new businesses, existing business expansions, real estate developments such as Cherokee 75 Corporate Park, entrepreneurship support through programs such as the North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service (NAV), Launchpad and Fresh Start Mornings, building the film ecosystem, and workforce development including the creation of Be Pro Be Proud Georgia. COED’s all-inclusive approach to economic development has positively impacted a range of individuals — from students to CEOs — and has yielded over $1.4 billion in new capital investment and over 10,000 new jobs over the last 20 years.
Martin will begin a new role as Deputy Commissioner of Global Commerce for the Georgia Department of Economic Development this month.
E.T.
Woodstock Police Department Awarded Grant for Local DUI Enforcement
The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety has announced that the Woodstock Police Department (WPD) is one of 26 law enforcement agencies in Georgia to receive a Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic grant for the Federal 2025 Fiscal Year. Referred to as a H.E.A.T. grant, WPD’s award totals $275,108.
The goal of the H.E.A.T. program is to combat crashes, injuries, and fatalities caused by impaired driving and speeding while also increasing seatbelt use and educating the public about traffic safety and the dangers of DUI.
“Federal and state crash data show sustained enforcement of traffic laws reduces crashes and saves lives on our roads,” Allen Poole, director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety said. “GOHS will continue to partner with state and local law enforcement to implement projects and initiatives designed to protect everyone using our roads and to help reach our goal of zero traffic deaths in Georgia and our nation.”
“As part of our ongoing commitment to public safety, we look forward to collaborating with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in mobilizing our resources for high visibility enforcement and education,” said Chief of Police Robert Jones. “Our commitment to combating impaired driving and promoting traffic safety in Woodstock remains steadfast.”
As law enforcement partners in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over DUI campaign and the Click It or Ticket seatbelt campaign, the WPD will also conduct mobilizations throughout the year in coordination with GOHS’s year-round waves of high visibility patrols, multi-jurisdictional road checks, and sobriety checkpoints.
For more information about the H.E.A.T. program or any other GOHS campaign, visit GaHighwaySafety.org or call 404-656-6996. For information about the services provided by the WPD, visit WoodstockGa.gov/police.
Eighth-grader Arcadian Freund is the Cherokee County winner of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District’s 23rd annual essay contest open to all metro Atlanta middle schoolers. Last fall, students were invited to write an essay about how water has shaped the metro Atlanta region, and they could also include topics such as water conservation, water recreation, and related careers.
Arcadian wrote about the importance of protecting water resources through conserving use and controlling pollution. To read a copy of Freund’s winning essay, please scan the QR code.
Booth MS Student Wins Regional Essay Contest
(L-R) Woodstock Police Officer McIntyre, Woodstock Police Chief Robert Jones, Roger L. Hayes - Governor's Office of Highway Safety Director of Law Enforcement Services, Powell Harrelson - Governor's Office of Highway Safety Law Enforcement Coordinator, and Woodstock Police Officer Reynolds
(L-R) Arcadian Freund with his English language arts teacher Katie Imbriano
History Cherokee Celebrates 50 Years of Preserving the Past
Throughout 2025, History Cherokee will commemorate 50 years of dedication to preserving Cherokee County’s history with reduced museum admission, educational social media posts, and special events. These plans celebrate the organization from its humble beginnings in 1975 as the Cherokee County Historical Society to its evolution into today’s History Cherokee.
From its inception, the organization has been an advocate for preserving Cherokee County’s historic buildings. In addition to spearheading efforts to save Canton’s Marble Courthouse and the Rock Barn, History Cherokee has also worked with homeowners and local governments to find resources to help preserve their historic properties.
A Journey Through History — 50 Years of Milestones
• 1975 – On April 17, the first Cherokee County Historical Society organizational meeting was held at the Cherokee County School Superintendent’s office. William G. Hasty served as the organization’s first president.
• 1976 – The first annual meeting was held at the Pinecrest Inn, featuring former United States Secretary of State Dean Rusk as the keynote speaker.
• 1981 – Cherokee County’s sesquicentennial was celebrated, and the Society published its first book, Glimpses of Cherokee County
• 1989 – The Society successfully raised $500,000 for the preservation and renovation of the Rock Barn, which was donated by the Cherokee County Board of Education. Also, the Rock Barn and Edgewater Hall were added to the National Register of Historic Places.
• 1991 – The Society played a critical role in saving Canton’s Marble Courthouse from demolition and introduced the Annual Historic Preservation Awards.
• 2003 – The first Kentucky Derby Day fundraiser was held at the Rock Barn.
• 2004 – After operating for nearly 30 years as an all-volunteer organization, the first full-time staff member was hired.
• 2011 – The Cherokee County History Museum opened on the first floor of the Marble Courthouse.
• 2020 – The Historical Society rebranded as History Cherokee and launched a capital campaign for a new museum.
• 2022 – The Cherokee County History Center opened, introducing a state-of-the-art, 11,000-square-foot, interactive cultural center in downtown Canton.
• 2025 – We Celebrate 50 years of preserving Cherokee County’s past, present, and future!
A Vibrant Future
Today, History Cherokee employs five full-time and four part-time staff members. The museum welcomes visitors Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00am-5:00pm. To celebrate its 50th Anniversary, throughout 2025 — admission is only $5 for adults, and admission for children 18 and younger is free.
New Programs for 2025
• Science Saturdays
• Scout Saturdays
• Monthly Sensory-Friendly Days
• Winter Break Camp
Honoring Volunteers and Giving Back
In honor of the many individuals who have supported the organization over the last five decades, History Cherokee’s staff members are each pledging 50 hours of volunteer service with other organizations across Cherokee and surrounding counties as part of the “History’s Helping Hands” initiative. The community is invited to join this effort and contribute volunteer hours.
Join the Celebration
Throughout the year, History Cherokee will share highlights from its 50-year journey. Follow along on social media and visit the museum to explore the history that has shaped Cherokee County. For more information, visit HistoryCherokee.org, email info@historycherokee.org, or call 770-345-3288.
Terry Allee portrayed James Madison at History Cherokee's Homeschool Day in September 2024.
(L-R) Historical Society members Judson Roberts and Coy Free along with John Hildreth from the National Trust for Historic Preservation stand outside the Rock Barn.
Quotables
“The love we give away is the only love we get to keep.”
-Elbert Hubbard
“Opinion is really the lowest form of human knowledge. It requires no accountability, no understanding. The highest form of knowledge is empathy, for it requires us to suspend our egos and live in another’s world.”
-Bill Bullard
“Love is that condition in which the happiness of another is essential to your own.”
-Robert A. Heinlein
“People only see the decisions you made, not the choices you had.”
-Unknown
“It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.”
-Epictetus
“Love is when two people commit to no longer hiding from each other.”
-Unknown
“You don’t look like your goals. You look like your habits. Effort never lies.”
-Ryan Fischer
“Love brings up everything unlike itself.”
-Marianne Williamson
“It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not.”
-Andre Gide
Award-Winning ServiceWise Electric Introduces Plumbing Solutions
Canton’s ServiceWise Electric is now ServiceWise Electric & Plumbing, bringing its reputation for expertise and stellar customer service to a community needing reliable plumbers.
“We kept getting phone calls asking if we do any other trades, and we would refer people for plumbing,” said COO Maggie Grayeski, who owns ServiceWise with husband Mike, the CEO and an unrestricted Class II master electrician for 31 years. “We just kept getting poor feedback from our customers that some of our competitor’s plumbers never called back nor showed up, so we decided to create a new division, and it has been very positive.”
The family-owned-andoperated company has a reputation for highquality electrical services, covering Cherokee County and surrounding cities since 2004.
Lead Tech
In January, ServiceWise received its third consecutive Best of Life Award for Best Electrician in Canton Family Life magazine and was named the 2024 Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year.
Nationally, the U.S. is experiencing a skilled labor shortage, potentially making the pool of reliable providers even smaller. Plumbing is especially lacking — according to “Bw Daily,” the Bloomberg Businessweek newsletter, the U.S. will lack 550,000 plumbers in 2027, based on analysis by economic research company John Dunham & Associates.
Well-suited for expansion with excellence, ServiceWise consistently receives 5-star Google ratings. The company has 17 employees and a fleet of nine vans including two newly dedicated to the plumbing division, which is headed by master plumber Corey Fouts. Word of mouth and customer support have kept the newer division busy since last November.
All About Customers
ServiceWise offers residential and commercial electrical services including remodels and additions along with a catalog of services including panel upgrades, recessed lighting installation, smoke detector installation, lighting upgrades, and troubleshooting.
Top Row (L-R): Hunter Parrish, Dino Dellafortuna, Anthony Wilson, Riley Tweedell. Middle Row (L-R): Daniel Basile, Arnie Lopez-Rios, Mitchell Kunkle, Kyle Babcock, Thomas Howard, Maggie Grayeski, Ryan Thompson, Corey Fouts, Andrew Vaughan, Chloe Dennis, Bottom
Row (L-R): Caroline Grayeski, Mike Grayeski, Kevin Trautman
Dino Dellafortuna
“Surge protection, EV (electric vehicle) charging stations, and generator installation are popular requests,” said Mike.
Customer Rachel Leaberry recently praised her experience with technician Daniel Basile:
“What set ServiceWise apart was their combination of rates, transparent communication, and Daniel's evident expertise and confidence,” she wrote in a Google review. “The office efficiently scheduled the installation within a day of accepting their bid. Daniel returned and completed the work seamlessly on a Friday at 4:00pm. They worked around my work schedule. Based on this experience, I wouldn't hesitate to call ServiceWise for all my future electrical needs.”
The staff at ServiceWise are equipped to schedule quotes and jobs, confirm appointments by email or text, and give a 24-hour notice before arriving. Customers also receive a courtesy text from technicians when they are on the way.
The plumbing division offers residential and commercial services as well, including plumbing, sewer, and drain solutions. Repair and replacement are available for fixtures and water heaters, and Maggie said tankless water heaters and whole-house water filtration systems are popular. Mike emphasized the company’s backflow prevention certification – a necessity in commercial plumbing.
“I needed three pipe repairs done, including a valve replacement for my hose bib,” wrote customer and reviewer Robert Rossi. “Ryan Thompson came out with advanced notice and evaluated the job to give the estimate. I was satisfied with how everything was up-front and explained thoroughly. Prices were reasonable, work looked great, cleanup was terrific, and I am glad the job is done for the cold season!”
ServiceWise offers The WISE Plan to the community, which includes yearly inspections of electrical and plumbing systems, priority scheduling, discounts on services, and lifetime warranties on parts, labor, and craftsmanship.
A Dream Team
Married for 14 years, the Grayeski’s are a dynamic duo, pairing Mike’s industry expertise with Maggie’s nearly 20 years in business management and administration. Rather than using subcontractors, the company’s technicians are employees with full benefits. The couple invests in continuing education for all.
“We base our company on taking care of our employees,” Mike explained. “We can’t do anything without our technicians. Good employees take care of our customers.”
Service Manager Andrew Vaughan has worked with Mike for 16 years and is the glue among the company’s technicians.
Call Center Manager Chloe Dennis keeps the office running, ensuring callers speak to a human during business hours.
In addition to fostering a family vibe within the company and among its loyal customers, other members of the Grayeski family are players, too. The Grayeski’s son, Coby, has an electrical background having worked at ServiceWise for a year. He is serving in the U.S. Navy in Virginia with plans to return to the family business and will be the company’s third veteran employee. Their daughter, Caroline, has worked in customer service for several years at ServiceWise and is a junior studying business at Reinhardt University.
ServiceWise consistently supports local schools, activities, charity events, and veterans with time, money, and service discounts. The company offers discounts to those serving in the military, first responders, and senior citizens.
(L-R) Mike, Caroline, and Maggie Grayeski
Mitchell Kunkle Electrical Apprentice
Restoring Power to the People Advancing Limited Government and Georgia’s Future
By Representative Charlice Byrd
The principles of limited government, decentralization, and personal responsibility have long been at the heart of effective leadership. These ideals resonate deeply across the nation, particularly here in Georgia, where the people have consistently demanded a government that works for them — not over them.
As a member of the Georgia House of Representatives, I am proud to stand for these values. By focusing on reducing the size of government and returning power to the states and local communities, we can create a system that ensures greater accountability.
Why Limited Government Matters Government works best when it is small, focused, and accountable. Over the years, excessive spending and regulatory overreach have stifled small businesses, burdened taxpayers, and weakened local autonomy. In 2022, the federal budget exceeded $6 trillion, a stark reminder that unchecked growth is unsustainable (Congressional Budget Office, 2023).
Trump’s victory highlighted this concern, offering a mandate to streamline government and prioritize the core functions that protect individual freedoms, strengthen families, and promote opportunities. These values are central to the work I advocate for in the Georgia legislature — ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, businesses are free to thrive, and citizens are empowered to pursue success on their terms.
The Case for Limited Government When governments overextend, they often create onesize-fits-all solutions that fail to address the unique needs of communities. Streamlining government functions and eliminating unnecessary programs can reduce taxpayer burdens while enhancing effectiveness and responsiveness.
In Georgia, We Must Focus on Policies That:
• Foster Economic Growth — Removing regulatory barriers and lowering taxes encourages entrepreneurship and job creation.
• Ensure Efficiency — Simplifying government programs and cutting wasteful spending enables better use of resources for critical priorities.
• Protect Individual Freedoms — Limited government ensures that personal liberties are preserved, allowing citizens to make decisions for themselves and their families.
As your representative, I am committed to ensuring that our state remains a beacon of opportunity, self-reliance, and freedom. This means continuing to advocate for policies that put power back in the hands of the people, reduce wasteful spending, and prioritize the unique needs of Georgia’s diverse communities.
By working together, we can uphold the values that make our state strong and ensure that Georgia remains a leader in advancing freedom, prosperity, and accountability for future generations.
Source: The Budget and Economic Outlook: 2023 to 2033, CBO.gov/publication/58848
Charlice.Byrd@house.ga.gov
Charlice Byrd represents Georgia House District 20, which includes parts of Canton and Woodstock. 404-557-2218.
Aging and Love
By Tim Morris
[Lifestyle] I have worked in the aging field since 1990, and I never get tired of hearing the stories of couples or individuals who have been married for a very long time. They seem to light up as they reminisce about the past.
I remember asking a couple in the nursing home where I worked how long they had been married. The husband couldn’t recall, but his wife could. She looked at me and said, “We will have been married 77 years come June.”
I immediately tried to do the math in my head. She stopped me and said he was the love of her life at 15, and he was 16 at the time. They got married after two months of dating and had been by each other’s side the entire time except for the three years he served in WWI.
I asked her for her best advice for a long happy marriage. She quickly said, “Marry your best friend.” Then, with a chuckle, she added, “It wasn’t because he was good looking.”
I remember the dating scene when I was at Georgia Southern University. My friends teased me because I refused to date girls from Atlanta because I thought they were too metropolitan for me. I grew up in a small town in central Georgia, so I preferred country girls.
When I graduated, I took a job in Dahlonega. Within a month, I met Carol and fell in love. We got engaged after only a few months and set a wedding date. When I called one of my college buddies to be in my wedding, he asked, “Where is this wedding?” I told him it was in Decatur — inside the Atlanta perimeter. My friend laughed, and said, “You don’t date girls from Atlanta. You just marry them.”
Carol and I have been married for more than 30 years, and like the couple in the nursing home, I also married my best friend. L
Public Safety
Guiding, Supporting, and Leading Our Teens
February Is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month
By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway
For many, adolescence is a time of growth, self-discovery, and building healthy relationships. But these years can also be fraught with stress, uncertainty, peer pressure, and risky behaviors.
Today’s teens face challenges not seen in prior generations, including navigating safe use of social media, the internet, and cell phones. Technology makes young people vulnerable 24/7. They need their parents’ guidance and support to get through these challenges.
ONLINE CRIMES
Cyberbullying occurs when messages, from known or unknown sources, attack someone’s appearance, intelligence, race, or sexuality. Perpetrators use social media intentionally and repeatedly to harm victims. Often, they make personal information public, inflicting further trauma.
When an individual coerces someone to provide images or videos of a sexual nature, it is called sextortion, which is a type of
cyberbullying. Transmitting these images, often called “revenge porn,” is a crime.
Victims of cyberbullying and sextortion suffer emotionally, socially, behaviorally, and academically. When damaging content is posted online, individuals suffer unimaginable and repeated harm because there is no way to ensure that images posted online are deleted.
STALKING
In Georgia, the crime of stalking occurs when someone follows, places under surveillance, or contacts other people without their consent to harass and intimidate them.1 Stalking can include following or watching a victim; using GPS technology to track a victim; using a hidden camera to spy on a victim; and repeatedly communicating by phone, text, email, and/or social media.
When the offender is a former or current dating partner, stalking may be part of a pattern of dating violence.
TEEN DATING VIOLENCE
This form of intimate partner violence affects young people in close, dating relationships. The victim suffers repeated abuse in the form of acts that are physical, verbal, emotional, technology-related, sexual, or a combination of these acts.
Dating violence may include belittling, threats, isolation from friends and family, jealousy, excessive texting, or physical abuse such as shoving, hitting, and strangulation. In some cases, it may include forcing the other person to engage in sexual activities and making their partner disclose personal social media login information.
Violence tends to escalate and de-escalate, with peaceful periods following abuse. This cycle is similar to adult domestic violence relationships. Behavior that may at first appear to be signs of love might actually be manipulation and control.
A teen experiencing dating violence may become depressed, engage in unhealthy behaviors (such as using drugs and alcohol), and think about suicide. If something doesn’t seem right, talk to your child and seek help from the Cherokee Family Violence Center. Call 911 in cases of emergency.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Share information on how to avoid becoming a victim of a crime. Talk about healthy relationships and remind teens that controlling and violent behaviors are never acceptable. Let them know they can always talk to you, and help is available.
Teens experiencing dating violence should reach out to a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult. They can also call the Cherokee Family Violence Center or 911 in cases of emergency.
Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office
Spring Cleaning Checklists
By James Lang
[Home Life] Check out these helpful spring cleaning checklists and information to ensure no task is overlooked.
Spring Cleaning Supplies
All-Purpose Cleaner
Glass Cleaner
Disinfecting Wipes
Microfiber Cloths
Broom and Dustpan
Vacuum Cleaner
Mop and Bucket
Toilet Brush and Toilet Cleaner
Rubber Gloves
Sponges and Scrub Brushes
All-Room Spring Cleaning
Make sure hallways, foyers, and other entrance areas are included on your list. Tasks that apply to all rooms include dusting where the walls meet the ceiling and working your way down to the baseboards, dusting ceiling fans and light fixtures, cleaning windowsills/tracks, vacuuming curtains/ blinds, wiping baseboards, and disinfecting door knobs and light switches. It’s also a good idea to declutter as you go.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
Dust high in the corners and dust light fixtures.
Organize cabinets and drawers.
Scrub the vanity, shower, bathtub, and toilet.
Sweep and mop the floor.
Living Room Cleaning Checklist
Declutter and put everything where it belongs.
Dust light fixtures, fans, windowsills, and baseboards.
Vacuum carpeting and upholstered furniture.
Sweep hard-surface floors.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
Toss old food.
Organize cabinets.
Wipe down appliances.
Clean refrigerator shelves as well as behind and beneath the refrigerator.
Clean the oven, stovetop, and sink.
Declutter while you work your way through the grease and grime.
Sweep and mop the floor.
Bedroom Cleaning List
Dust.
Organize drawers/closets.
Wash bedding/pillowcases.
Rotate mattresses.
Disinfect toys.
Vacuum/mop floors.
To keep your bedroom fresh longer, wash your sheets weekly.
Dining Room Cleaning Checklist
Dust and polish furniture.
Replace table linens.
Wipe down fixtures.
Clean China storage.
Vacuum area rugs and floors.
If you need assistance with spring cleaning, Molly Maid is happy to help. L
James Lang owns Molly Maid of Cherokee County, Kennesaw, and Marietta, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-926-0036. MollyMaid.com
The Enneagram is “a system of classifying personality types that is based on a nine-pointed starlike figure inscribed within a circle in which each of the nine points represents a personality type and its psychological motivations (such as the need to be right or helpful) influencing a person’s emotions, attitudes, and behavior,” (MerriamWebster.com). Though the Enneagram system is not new — its first known use was in 1851 — it has recently surged in popularity due to celebrity buzz and abundant social media coverage.
Though most think of the Enneagram as personality typology, “It’s actually a dynamic system that draws from many sources, including ancient wisdom traditions and modern psychology, to help people understand their own values and unique survival strategies,” (Healthline.com).
Enneagram Numbers Can Understanding Them Help Your Relationships Thrive?
By Julie Senger
What’s In a Number?
According to Dr. Jerome D. Lubbe, functional neurologist, and author of The Brain-Based Enneagram: You Are Not a Number, the Enneagram “has three distinct yet united segments — instinct, intuition, and intellect. [These are] the gut center, heart center, and head center, respectively,” or, in other words, a person’s body, soul, and mind.
According to The Enneagram Institute, “It is common to find a little of yourself in all nine of the types, although one of them should stand out as being closest to yourself.” Many online quiz options will help you determine your Enneagram number, but most will cost a few dollars to access your results.
In addition to your main Enneagram number, the numbers adjacent to it are known as “wings,” and one of your wings will be more dominant than the other. For instance, if you’re a Type 6, your wings would be 5 and 7.
“Enneagram wings refine each personality type, showing how complex our structure is, and at the same time, they make understanding ourselves a lot easier. When we take wings into account, Enneagram types are more accurate and precise, a more assertive self-discovery tool than when we focus exclusively on the main enneatype,” (EnneagramUniverse.com).
If you’re interested in taking a quiz, a thorough option can be found at Enneagram-Personality.com. However, even without taking a quiz, you may recognize yourself in one of the following basic descriptions of each of the nine personality types, obtained from the Enneagram Explained website:
Type AKA Are About
1s Reformers order, responsibilities, follow-through, and details
2s Helpers affection, affirmation, connection, and love
3s Achievers efficiency, optimism, recognition, and success
4s Individualists authenticity, emotions, creativity, and sensitivity
5s Investigators competency, knowledge, logic, and alone time
6s Loyalists loyalty, reassurance, honesty, and trust
7s Enthusiasts flexibility, positivity, adventure, and excitement
8s Challengers intensity, courage, directness, and assertiveness
9s Peacemakers peace, attachment, open-mindedness, and collaboration
How Is the Enneagram System Used?
Over the years, people have used Enneagrams in many ways, for example:
“Using the Enneagram, participants strive to become more aware of their own psychological fixations, spiritual problems, patterns of behavior, and ways of relating to other people,” (Don Lattin et al., San Francisco Chronicle, 8 Aug. 1994).
“The Enneagram is widely used in retreat centers and churches, which offer both introductory courses and advanced instruction in how to apply it to such areas as negotiation, parenting, and conflict,” (Judy Tarjanyi, Houston Chronicle, 12 Nov. 1994).
How Can This Knowledge Benefit Relationships?
Once you know someone’s enneagram number, you will have a better understanding of what motivates them; what makes them feel seen, heard, and appreciated; which ways they prefer to give and receive information/communicate; and, conversely, the types of interactions that will elicit a negative reaction or response from that person.
Therapist Lauren Hasha, MS, LPC, explained that “the Enneagram has been more useful to her in helping people identify not only their personality types, but also understanding what mental spaces people hide in when stressed or traumatized, what coping mechanisms they use, and why,” (Elly Belle, Healthline, 30 Jun. 2020).
If used correctly, this information will help strengthen your romantic and other personal relationships as well as help you form better connections with business colleagues and various people you communicate with. But perhaps most importantly, knowing and understanding your own Enneagram will strengthen your relationship with yourself.
Teaching is a second career for Dr. Jamie Stahler, and the corporate world’s loss is public education’s gain.
Her first career at IBM ended when she began to feel she wasn’t making “a meaningful impact on the world” like she would as a teacher. She returned to school to pursue a master’s degree in education and now is in her 17th year as an educator.
“I genuinely believe that teaching is my calling, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to impact as many students as possible,” said Stahler, whose colleagues chose her as the 202324 Teacher of the Year for E.T. Booth MS. It’s her second Teacher of the Year title, having previously earned the honor when teaching in Cobb County.
At E.T. Booth MS, she teaches English language arts, serves as her department’s head and school “house” CEO, and co-coaches the school’s state champion and three-time CCSD champion reading bowl team. Stahler also volunteers at neighboring Etowah HS, where her husband is a teacher and student government association advisor, and their two children are students. Together, Stahler and her family also volunteer at Forever Fed Mobile Pantry.
Stahler is known among students and her colleagues for using innovative and captivating classroom instruction to help all students learn and achieve.
“To encourage my students to be excited about learning, I focus on creating an engaging and inclusive classroom environment,” she said. “I celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and
foster a growth mindset by emphasizing effort and resilience. Building strong relationships with my students allows me to understand their individual motivations, which helps me tailor my approach and keep their enthusiasm alive.”
One of her most recent innovative classroom ideas is “File Folders of Fun.”
“These folders contained personalized learning plans tailored to each student’s unique strengths and areas for growth, based on their test scores. This approach not only engaged the students but also empowered them to take ownership of their learning journeys,” she said. “By incorporating a variety of interactive activities and resources in the folders, I aimed to make learning both enjoyable and effective, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation among my students.”
What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school?
“Read! Encourage a love of reading by starting with reading to your child, then progressing to reading with them,” she said. “As your child grows, engage with the materials they’re reading at school to foster meaningful conversations. This not only strengthens your connection but also enhances their comprehension and understanding of the texts.”
Barbara P. Jacoby is the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District. 770-704-4228. CherokeeK12.net
On Interrupting
By Elaine Scott
[InGoodFaith] I sit in lots of meetings. Some are strategic, some are creative, some are troubleshooting. In every meeting, there are extroverts, introverts, and those falling somewhere in between. There are creatives, analytical thinkers, supporters, and visionaries. Overall, these meetings help move us forward in productive ways, and I enjoy the process. However, I’ve noticed something that could be problematic, and I’ll be the first to acknowledge my guilt, we interrupt each other.
I wonder what we miss when we cut someone off mid-sentence. An insight? A perspective? A great idea? Mostly, I wonder if we honored the person speaking. Let me be clear — I’m not saying we should never interrupt. I just think we could, and should, do a better job of listening.
For those of us who are chronic interrupters, here are three strategies to try:
Practice active listening.
Give the speaker your undivided attention. Look at them as they speak (not your phone, laptop, etc.). Lean in to show interest. Offer verbal cues to communicate you’re tracking with them. This takes effort and is especially challenging in a world where distractions abound.
Wait before you speak.
This requires self-discipline. Choose to defer to others who may want to comment, which can be tough when you really want to speak. That’s why it’s important to practice. We learn we don’t have to always go next, and we don’t have to contribute every time.
Take notes, so you don’t forget.
Thoughts can often leave our minds as quickly as they arrive. Bring a notepad to your meetings. Doing this has taught me that what I think is so critical for me to say in the moment often isn’t. Or, if I listen a little longer, the question I have is usually answered.
Learning to minimize our interruptions increases opportunities to honor those around us, resulting in better communication and stronger relationships. And who doesn’t want that? L
Elaine Scott is the director of Womens Groups at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 678-525-4851. WoodstockCity.org
Straight, Healthy Teeth To Last a Lifetime
By Steven Anderson, DMD
[Healthy Life] Chocolate, golf, or fresh apple pie may be a few of our heavenly hopes, but having straight teeth in this life is critical. While a smile with perfectly aligned white teeth is aesthetically pleasing, it also helps avoid serious oral diseases that will likely cause tooth loss if not corrected, which is why an astute dentist recommends teeth straightening.
Periodontal disease is the deterioration or loss of the supporting bone around teeth. Bone holds our teeth in our mouth, and healthy pink gums should cover that bone. Our gums should not be red, tender, or bleed when we gently brush and floss. Bleeding gums can be an initial sign of periodontal disease.
Crooked teeth collect plaque in overlapping areas, which is difficult to remove even with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque hardens and turns into a substance called “calculus.” Patients cannot remove hardened calculus at home, which becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Periodontal
disease often sets in, and the bacterium destroys the supporting bone around teeth. Left untreated, the disease spreads, teeth become loose, and eventually need to be removed or may fall out. Dentists want their patients to keep their teeth, so they can enjoy eating chocolate and fresh apple pie (in moderation).
Your dentist should courteously address problem areas during regular checkups. By performing a comprehensive periodontal exam with probing and X-rays, dentists will show patients existing problem areas and color images supporting periodontal findings. A periodontal exam can help you understand the gravity and severity of looming problems, which is critical during any initial dental exam.
Periodontal disease is treated by “deep cleanings,” more frequent exams, and other drug or surgical procedures necessary to control it. Currently, there is no cure, so dentists must work with patients to control it. Proper periodontal disease treatment
takes cooperation from patients, which may include treating crooked teeth. Periodontal disease is serious and should command a patient’s attention once diagnosed. Modern medicine links periodontal disease to other medical issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Listen to your dentist and do your best to follow their advice.
Back to straight teeth — avoiding periodontal disease is another benefit beyond the obvious cosmetic benefit of straight teeth. Traditionally, visible wire and brackets are used for children and adults. However, modern dentistry offers new and advanced methods to straighten teeth. These alternatives include clear, thin, plastic retainers (known as aligners) that fit over a patient’s teeth and slowly move them into alignment, similar to traditional wire methods. Many patients prefer clear aligners because they are removable, easily cleaned, soft to the inner lip area, not readily visible, and typically require a shorter treatment time.
Ask your dentist about straighter teeth and other treatment alternatives to periodontal disease. After all, great dentistry is all about you and helping you arrive at the pearly gates with all your pearly whites intact. L
Dr. Steven Anderson practices cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb. 650 Claremore Professional Way, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770-384-8505. DrStevenAnderson.com
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Tony Thomas Conveys Nature’s Magic
Tony Thomas, whose art moniker is Tonyt, is the first to say he is “a work in progress.” That progress began when he was “a confirmed nerd, a kid who stayed in my room and drew, doodled, and made clay airplanes and jets.” He loved checking out library books where he could find photos of objects he would then draw. Even as young as nine or 10, he was attracted to images of “art of all types — from the Dutch masters to Jackson Pollock.”
Although he was the staff artist at his high school newspaper and later worked as a draftsman, Thomas said, “Life came in and demanded I make money,” which led to 30 years of working in IT and electronics. He occasionally dabbled in his art, yet he envisioned returning to it. When the pandemic ended his job, that vision became a reality. In 2021, an invitation from a friend to hang a few paintings in a booth at an antique mall fueled Thomas’ return to being an artist.
In the past three years, Thomas has become a prolific painter whose works can be seen throughout the local area. This winter, he had a solo exhibit in the Hall County Library in his hometown of Gainesville.
Thomas remains drawn to color, light, and shadow and the natural drama they convey. He also loves capturing nature’s drama, especially in water.
“I love water in motion,” he said. “Huge waves crashing against rocks, energy that bursts. If FIreworks were made of water, we would crowd the seashore to see them.”
To recreate nature’s beauty and intensity, Thomas works predominantly in watercolor, using a variety of brushes and watercolor pencils that facilitate precise and detailed renderings and add texture and depth to his paintings. While seeing his depictions of crashing waves, waterfalls, sunsets, or clouds moving across the sky, the viewer is often struck by the energy and/or sense of calm that Thomas conveys in his works.
Thomas works on only one painting at a time, sometimes putting in 30-40 hours over a few weeks. When he begins, he has some idea of the mood he hopes to capture. Still learning, he is exploring painting in oils, trying new techniques and tools, and working on brush control. He also celebrates the beauty of fruits and vegetables through still-life paintings and attempts to mimic the translucency of glass.
“My art is very much evolving,” he said.
With respect and affection for nature, Thomas hopes that in seeing his art, “viewers come away feeling better for the day or even just a couple of hours. That’s great,” he said. “I have achieved the main thing I wanted to achieve — to convey the beauty of the earth and its natural processes.”
See more of Tony Thomas’ art on display at the Alpharetta Art Center or the following internet locations:
Blue Vibrance
Old Country Road
Driftwood at Sunset
Tips for Indoor Seed Starting
By Joshua Fuder
[Home Life] Starting plants indoors from seeds is a great way to jump-start your spring and summer gardens. It’s often the only way to grow rare, heirloom plants and others that require a long growing season. Many gardeners enjoy starting indoor transplants because it extends the gardening year, and it’s a little more satisfying come vegetable harvest time when the plants are grown from seeds rather than seedlings. Starting seeds indoors can be tricky, so follow these guidelines to ensure success.
Soil/Growing Media
A wide range of growing media may be used as long as it’s loose and well-drained. Don’t use or mix garden soil, as it’s too heavy and will potentially introduce pathogens that can kill your young seedlings. A mixture containing equal parts perlite or vermiculite, peat moss, and sterile compost is best and can be purchased from most retail locations. This potting mix will have low fertility, so seedlings must be watered with a diluted fertilizer solution as soon as the first leaves emerge.
Light
Transplants grown indoors will likely require supplemental light soon after germination. A south-facing window is a great place to get seeds started but will often not provide the young plants enough light exposure, which will result in weak, “leggy” plants. Fluorescent fixtures placed 2-4” above the leaves with an exposure of 16 hours per day is the best method.
Containers
Plastic cell packs can be purchased or reused, but there’s no limit to what you can use as long as it is sterile and provides adequate drainage.
Soil Moisture and Temperature
The growing medium should be thoroughly moistened before planting. After seeding, the soil must be kept moist but not sopping wet — think of a wrung-out sponge. The temperature of the soil is also critical and must be kept near 70 degrees. A horticultural heat mat may be required under the seed trays and pots to keep roots actively growing.
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee
