Woodstock Family Life 5-23

Pickleball The Newest Sport in the Neighborhood

By Kelley Archer

[Lifestyle] It’s no surprise that pickleball has become one of the fastest growing sports in the country. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, playership has increased 158.6% in the last 3 years. The sport is designed as a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, and can be played as a singles or doubles match. Therefore, many master-planned communities, neighborhoods, and clubs have added pickleball into their communities and have seen large numbers of residents and members engage in the sport.

People of all ages play pickleball because of the accessibility and ease of the sport as well as the lively social environment it can provide. Here are four reasons pickleball is beneficial to people and communities throughout Cherokee.

 You can make new friends. Pickleball is a social sport that brings people together to establish new and lasting friendships through a common interest. Players can meet people at the courts playing singles, doubles, or by joining a local league.

 Pickleball improves balance and agility while giving you the benefit of regular exercise, which often reduces your risk of heart attack and chronic diseases, toning muscles and increasing stamina. It also allows players to flex their sense of healthy competition.

 The sport can drive connections across generations and genders, giving players the chance to mix and mingle with family, new and old friends, or neighbors of all ages. Pickleball is enjoyed by men and women, with 53% of players being male and 47% being female. It is increasingly popular among all populations. You never know — you could meet new friends through this game that you may never have met otherwise.

 The rules are a mix of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong. Since these are games many people grew up playing, they are familiar with the rules, which makes pickleball easy to learn. Since learning the sport isn’t intimidating, players can have fun beginning with their very first match. 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

Severalyears ago, I was blessed with an opportunity to visit Utila, one of the Bay Islands in the south Caribbean, for some scuba diving. I was among a small group of wide-eyed, enthusiastic dive students who had studied new skills, gotten ahead at work, and made plans at home in preparation to be away in a foreign land. No one in the group had ever visited Utila before, and what we found there made each of us look forward to returning someday.

The island of Utila is a melting pot of people who have come from many places globally and have decided to simplify their lives. Tourism is vital to the local economy, and recreational diving is at the core. Anything not made or grown on this island, which is about 20 square miles, must be flown in on small planes or brought by boat from the mainland. When you can access it, the internet is scarce and slow, and the showers don’t stay warm for long.

Originally, the logistical challenges of acquiring basic resources such as sunscreen, shampoo, and even fresh water was something I’d seldom considered in my day-to-day life. When placed in the shoes (usually flip-flops) of the locals, I was once again comforted by the fact that some of the happiest people find joy in the simplest of things and require very little. I soon understood it was the genuine kindness of nearly everyone there that mattered most.

Cherokee County is home to some of the best cities in north Georgia. We have a robust level of tourism, and new and exciting progress is being made all the time. Our small towns are consistently growing and bustling with life and opportunities. Let’s remember that the most important thing we must show our visitors is our happiness, hospitality, and willingness to help each other. Let’s keep building on these simple things. Positive people attract positive people and keep them coming back for more. Let’s keep making our county known for its wonderful friendly and welcoming people.

PUBLISHER

Family Life Magazines

Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Julie Senger

Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Cyndi Braun

ART Stephanie Bolton

Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com

Tiffany Corn

Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com

PHOTOGRAPHER/ PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Jack Tuszynski

Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

SALES/MARKETING MANAGER

David Wright

David@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Steven Anderson, Kelley Archer, Michael Caldwell, Sarah Childers, Joshua Fuder, Lisa M. Grisham, Matt Hayes, Kay Kirkpatrick, Juan Reyes, Patti Richter, Ellen Samsell Salas

Family Life Magazines

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

Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com

Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Woodstock Family Life is a monthly community magazine that reaches more than 30,000 homes and businesses via digital subscription and direct mail in Towne Lake, downtown Woodstock up to Hickory Flat and toward the Roswell border.

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.

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher Emeritus

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

© 2022 All rights reserved.

“Some people look for a beautiful place; others make a place beautiful.”

-Hazrat Inayat Khan

Needs Vs. Wants

By Pastor Matt Hayes

[InGoodFaith] As a kid, I was obsessed with Ninja Turtles. You couldn’t convince me that they weren’t the coolest thing on the planet. So, naturally, I wanted to collect every action figure I could. It was inevitable that I’d tell my dad that I needed the newest toy when we went to the store. And then he’d reply with the same question, every time:

“Do you need it, or do you want it?”

This wasn’t just a father dismissing his begging six-year-old for wanting another plastic collectible. This was my dad teaching me one of the most valuable lessons of my life. This was deep wisdom that, even as a first grader, I desperately needed to learn — needs and wants are two different things.

Wisdom will tell me to separate the two, but my appetite can’t do that. If anything, my appetite screams the opposite. “More” and “now” are the only two words our appetites seem to know, and their only volume is loud. They scream those two words at us so loudly that it’s hard to say no to anything immediately.

One of the best examples of this I can find is in Genesis 25. Esau comes in from a hard day of work, and his appetite is yelling that he’s starving. Is he? Probably not, but our appetites tend to choose the dramatic. As a result, he trades away his inheritance, his birthright, and his blessing for a cup of stew, lentil stew at that. That’s a horrific trade, but it’s similar to ones we make all the time.

What appetites are loudest in your life? Here are a few: food, sex, pleasure, appreciation, progress, significance, admiration. There are too many to list, but odds are one of them has the volume turned up in your life. So, today, pause for 10 seconds and ask, “Do I need it, or do I want it?” Hopefully, that question provides the wisdom to not trade what you need most for what you want now. L

Matt Hayes is the high school pastor at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 470-689-6000. WoodstockCity.org

MAY 4

SKILLS: First Aid — Woodstock Fire Department outlines lifesaving steps you can take in an emergency. Registration ($5 per person) is required. 6:30pm, William G. Long Senior Center Activity Expansion, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

4, 11, 18, & 23 Brown Bag Concert Series

Each Thursday in May, a local musician or musicians will play an hour-long set. It’s a great way to spend a lunch break. 5/4

Danielle McLean, 5/11 Mark Miller, 5/18 Trevor Startt, and 5/23 Serpent & Dove. 12:00pm, The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road. Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

4-6/25

Off the Wall

This art exhibit will feature artists who create work that is hung on the wall, yet invades the viewer’s space and exists in a liminal space between two and three dimensions. FREE admission. Gallery hours, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock.

Community Yoga Classes

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

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

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

5-7 The Legend of Georgia McBride

After Casey is fired from his gig as an Elvis impersonator at rundown, sinkhole Florida bar, he is replaced by a B-level drag show. When one of the queens can’t go on, Casey steps into the spotlight. Tickets $18-$23. 7:30pm Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30pm Sundays, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

6 Lantern Series: Ngaiire

This artist’s music is rooted in a resurgent Australian Neo-Soul movement, and she was listed as one of Australia’s leading live R&B/Soul by The [AU] Review 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

6 Trail Cleanup and Maintenance

6

20th Annual Kentucky Derby Day Gather to watch the race, sip mint juleps, dine on gourmet food, and bid on silent auction items. Ladies are encouraged to wear their finest chapeaux to qualify for entry in the Hat Contest. Visit the website for tickets; proceeds benefit historic preservation and education programs.

4:30-7:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

6 Community Yard Sale — Proceeds from this event will support Little River Methodist Church Missions. Seller tables are $25. Food will be available to purchase from 11:00am-1:00pm in the Fellowship Hall. 8:00am-4:00pm, Little River Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-926-2495. LittleRiverUMC.info

Volunteer to help clean and maintain our beloved parks! Tools will be provided while supplies last. Please register, so organizers can plan accordingly. 9:00am12:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton, 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

9 Be Pro Be Proud Georgia Skilled Professions Signing Day — Similar to a signing day for athletes, graduating high school seniors who have committed to pursuing a career in the skilled trades will be honored. 6:00-8:00pm, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600, CherokeeGa.org

Local’s Night — First Friday of each month, 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

55+ Trail Walkers — Tuesdays and Thursdays in May, 9:00am, please call or visit the website for specific location. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Woodstock Farm Fresh Market Saturdays, (through December), 8:30am12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com

10

Coffee With a Cop — This is an opportunity for the public to ask questions and meet the officers serving the community. 9:00-10:30am, Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. WoodstockGa.gov/police

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

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group

Second Thursday of each month, 11:00am1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.

Woodstock Business Club Meeting Thursdays, 8:30am, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-793-3312. WoodstockBusinessClub.com

10 & 24

Intro to White Water Kayaking for Veterans FREE pool sessions for introduction to white water kayaking, paddle strokes, and roll practice. Gear is provided if needed. 7:309:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. 706974-4832. TeamRiverRunner.org

13 Woodstock Summer Concert Series Presents Craig Morgan Enjoy a FREE concert by this charttopping country singer-songwriter. 7:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. WoodstockConcertSeries.com

13 & 14

Mother’s Day Powwow & Indian Festival

This north Georgia tradition features a Native American dance competition, tipis and living Indian village, Cree and Creek encampments, primitive skills and wildlife displays, a 5K, and other fun activities. Tickets $5-$15. 10:00am-7:00pm Saturday, 11:00am-6:00pm Sunday, Boling Park, 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-735-6275. RThunder.com

15 Bluegrass Jam Session

With Possum ‘N’ Taters Seniors are invited to listen to music or bring an instrument and join in on the fun! Membership and registration required. 2:00-4:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-4456518. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

17

Work Readiness

Wednesday

Assistance with resume development, interview skills, and job search methods will be provided. This service is FREE and open to the public. 3:00-5:00pm, Zoom webinar. 770-345-0400. CherokeeChamber.com

18 Family Fun Night

Visit downtown Woodstock for an array of themed, family-focused activities! 5:00-8:00pm, downtown Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com

13 & 14 Spring Art on the Green

Support local artists and makers at this outdoor art market, which also features live music and food vendors. 10:00am6:00pm Saturday and 11:00am-5:00pm Sunday, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

YPOW AM — Thursdays, 7:00-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org

Morning INfluence — Last Friday of each month, 8:00-9:00am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.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

17

Discovering Pickleball

Learn all about the sport of pickleball in this hour-long class. Pickleball can be played by anyone, regardless of age or sports background. $5 registration fee is required. 6:30pm, Dupree Park Pickleball Courts, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. Bit.ly/3vFIsxA

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

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

Marine Corps League Detachment 1311 Meeting — Third Saturday of each month, 9:30am, Semper Fi Bar & Grille, 9770 Main Street, Woodstock. 561-213-5699. Harry123130@gmail.com

19

Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10. All proceeds benefit local seniors and senior veterans. 11:30am-1:00pm, Camellia Place 294 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

19

Art on the Spot — In under 3 hours, local artists create a piece of art on the spot that is raffled off at the end of the night. 6:00-9:00pm, the Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

19

WIT! — The Woodstock Arts

Improv Troupe has audiences rolling down the aisle with laughter. Tickets $10-$14. 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

19 9th Annual Homeless Veteran Charity Golf Event

This four-person team scramble event supports the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans program. $100 per player/$400 per team. Event also includes a silent auction and raffles.

7:30am registration and 9:00am shotgun start, Lake Arrowhead Highlands Course, 486 Arrowridge, Waleska. 678-983-7590.

JLindenmayer80@gmail.com

[continued on page 8]

LIBRARY EVENTS

LIBRARY EVENTS Calendar

continued from page 7

SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

ROSE CREEK

4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491

WOODSTOCK

7735 Main Street, Woodstock 770-926-5859

INTRO TO KOREAN GAMES & CULTURE INTRO TO KOREAN GAMES & CULTURE

May 6, 3:00pm, Rose Creek

In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, enjoy games, activities, and snacks as well as learn basic Korean phrases and culture facts from Kennesaw State University’s Korean Language Club. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

ADULT PAINT ALONG

May 11, 10:45am, Rose Creek

Celebrate the arrival of spring by painting a spring scene. Painting will be video guided. All supplies will be provided. This is for ages 16+. Registration is required.

MOMMY & ME ART NIGHT

May 11, 5:00pm, Woodstock

Celebrate Mother’s Day a little early by bringing your mom for a night of painting. All supplies will be provided. Please wear old clothes or an apron. This is recommended for ages 6+. Registration is required.

MINI WATERCOLOR PAINTINGS

May 16, 5:00pm, Woodstock

Create miniature watercolor paintings. All supplies will be provided. Please wear old clothes or an apron. This is for all ages. Registration is required.

WOODSTOCK UKULELE PLAYERS

May 23, 5:45pm, Woodstock

Do you play the ukulele? Want to make music with friends? Then the Woodstock Ukulele Players is perfect for you! Learn and practice together. Players with at least basic ukulele experience are encouraged to come. This is for all ages.

AAPI DISNEY SING-ALONG PARTY

May 25, 5:30pm, Rose Creek

Enjoy music and clips from favorite Disney films, fun themed activities, and snacks while celebrating some beloved Disney characters in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

AMPED in the Park With Burn Boot Camp — Enjoy this FREE monthly fitness series. All workouts are fitness friendly (meaning you don’t have to be super fit to participate). 9:00am, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955.

20

26 Spring Into Summer Fest Talent

Show — Enjoy an evening of local talent, raffles, food trucks, crafts, a magician, dance party, sing-along, and games with prizes. Admission is $10 per person.

5:00-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park/ The Buzz, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Storytime Live! With Princess Leia — Bring the kids for a story with Princess Leia, photos, and other activities. FREE! 11:00am, The Park at City Center (gazebo), 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

20

26 Jazz Night Under the Stars

Sway to some live Jazz music and unwind for the weekend while snacking on a charcuterie board with a glass of wine in hand. 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

20

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

20

Lantern Series: Sons of Serendip

This musical quartet of four friends came together in graduate school at Boston University through a series of serendipitous events. The music features vocals, piano, guitar, cello, and a harp. 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

21 Discovering Disc Golf

Learn the basics of this sport. Three successive monthly classes are recommended to obtain all the information. Equipment for the class is provided. Registration required, $5 per person.

2:00pm, Dupree Park Prodigy Par 2 Disc Golf Course, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

21

Screen on the Green:

Big Hero 6 — Bring the family to enjoy a FREE screening of this popular kids’ movie. 3:00-5:00pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

27 Memorial Day Observance

Ceremony — This ceremony will honor veterans who have lost their lives while defending our country. The keynote speaker is Earl W. Darby, past Cherokee County Coroner. Flag placement on gravesites will follow the ceremony. 9:00am, Georgia National Cemetery Assembly Area, 1080 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton. 770-883-8175. GaNationalCemetery.org

29

Memorial Day Ceremony

Gather with fellow citizens to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. 10:00am, The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Woodstock.RecDesk.com

JUNE

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

4

Cherokee County School District Announcements

Etowah HS Educator Wins Teacher of the Year

Etowah HS science teacher

Lara McDonald is the 2023 CCSD Teacher of the Year! McDonald, a 13-year educator who teaches environmental science including AP classes, will advance as CCSD’s nominee for the Georgia Teacher of the Year competition. She is known for her creative engaging lessons and sponsorship of numerous after-school clubs.

McDonald listens, as Dr. Hightower shares a list of gifts she will receive as the CCSD Teacher of the Year.

Six Seniors Named 2023 Georgia Scholars

The Georgia Department of Education program honors high school seniors who exhibit excellence in their schools and communities. Honorees demonstrate dedication to academic success, participation in interscholastic events, and leadership through extracurricular activities. Only 154 seniors statewide earned the honor for the Class of 2023. Each Georgia Scholar receives a seal for their diploma.

Top Row (L-R) Brayden Fuentes, Creekview; Gracye Lamb, Etowah; Kylie Buchanan, Creekview. Bottom Row (L-R) Marcus Youngblood, Etowah; Riley Todd, Creekview; Wade Webb, Creekview.

HS Student Earns First Place in Congressional Art Show

Sponsored by the Congressional Institute, this national competition recognizes exemplary high school artwork. Students submit entries to the congressional district that represents their school’s area, and district artists select the winning entries. River Ridge HS junior Ashley McMath was named the 11th District’s overall winner for her charcoal piece, The Holy Spirit. Her artwork will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year. As part of the honor, she received airfare tickets to Washington, D.C., to see her artwork displayed and to meet with Congressman Barry Loudermilk, who represents the 11th District.

Reading Bowl Team Earns State Literary Honors

E.T. Booth MS’s reading bowl team earned second place in the statewide competition held at TomeCon. The team is coached by media specialist Amanda Graves and teacher Jamie Stahler, and students who competed at TomeCon are Nivesh Addepalli, Hakshara Bisetty, Ava Bourgault, Ahana Das, Evelyn Jackson, Thomas Joyce, Timi Ojo, Rohan Pandya, Eva Schwartz, Saived Tayi, Keirthen Titus, and Pradhyumna Vasishta.

Woodstock HS Student Places in All-State Art Competition

Senior Emily Coburn is one of only 50 Georgia high school student artists selected for the All-State Art Symposium. More than 2,000 entries were received from students across Georgia. In addition to being selected for the competitive exhibit, Emily’s artwork also earned fourth place overall. She is a student of visual arts teacher Lori Thompson.

River Ridge

Etowah HS Career Program

Earns State Industry Certification

Construction of Chambers Street Extension Is Underway in Downtown Woodstock

The new section of Chambers Street will be for two-way traffic and will allow for the removal of East Main Street from Arnold Mill Road to Wheeler Street. This construction project is part of Phase I of Woodstock City Center. The extension of Chambers Street from Arnold Mill Road to Wheeler Street establishes a grid street connection that will eventually run all the way to Dupree Road. When complete, it will allow for efficient access to the downtown parking deck.

Etowah HS Construction and Carpentry Career Pathway program teacher Ty Castell guides freshman Cash Krisfalusi, as he uses a saw during class.

Etowah HS’s Career Pathway

Construction and Carpentry program, which is led by teacher Ty Casteel, several years ago began the challenging process of earning industry certification from the Georgia Department of Education and industry affiliate Construction Ready. Certification is considered an additional “stamp of excellence” for a Career Pathway program. The certification is for the 2022-2027 school years and can be extended through a recertification process.

To earn the honor, programs must demonstrate the highest levels of excellence for curriculum and instruction; facilities and equipment; extracurricular programs aligned with the Pathway, such as SkillsUSA for construction; and partnerships with industry professionals. The process involves both submitting information to the state department of education and welcoming evaluators for a school site visit and interviews.

CCSD offers a total of 38 Career Pathway high school programs, which provide students with a wide selection of job exploration and preparation electives. The programs offer students opportunities to learn specific job skills and overall beneficial workplace skills as well as valuable individual industry certifications.

Reeves House Wins TravelBlazer Award

The Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau honored The Reeves House at Woodstock Arts with a TravelBlazer Award. One of only five projects selected this year, The Reeves House earned the honor due to Woodstock Arts’ partnership with the City of Woodstock, Woodstock Downtown Development Authority, and John Wieland’s JW Collection.

TravelBlazer Awards recognize destination development projects that are innovative and original, while demonstrating creative community collaboration and partnership. The Reeves House will be featured in the July issue of Georgia Trend with the other four recipients.

The replica of the century-old Reeves farmhouse in downtown Woodstock features a gallery for rotating exhibits, a classroom, an artist studio, and a coffee and wine bar. Learn about Woodstock Arts' world-class performing arts productions, concerts, in-depth classes, and exciting camps at WoodstockArts.com. Plan your adventure in a city unexpected at VisitWoodstockGa.com.

New Woodstock Fire Chief Named

The City of Woodstock announces the hiring of Shane Dobson as fire chief. Dobson started his career as a Woodstock firefighter in 1993. Thirty years later, equipped with extensive experience, training, and education, he is returning to where his career began.

Chief Dobson most recently served as the deputy fire chief for administration with the Roswell Fire Department. Prior to that, he held several roles with Dekalb County Fire Rescue including battalion chief and deputy chief of operations, rising to the rank of deputy fire chief for professional services & training in 2021.

“The Woodstock Fire Department has a long and rich history of which I was privileged to be a part early in my career,” stated Chief Dobson. “The city made a lasting impression on me personally and professionally, as it ultimately influenced my career and my successes. I consider it a privilege to represent the department and take it to the next level.”

Community

Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration Opens New Headquarters

Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration recently celebrated the opening of its new headquarters, which brings all operations under one roof. The purchase of this building was necessary to comply with Georgia State House Bill 202, which mandates increased viewing areas, parking capabilities, and storage. Located at 193 Lamar Haley Parkway in Canton, the facility was purchased for $1.5 million by the Board of Commissioners in August 2022.

Registration Is Open for

This summer, Safety Town is coming back to Bascomb ES. Through this program, local students learn how to stay safe with fun, interactive lessons each day.

Safe Kids partners, including US Army Corps of Engineers, Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Marshal’s Office, School Police, School Bus Transportation, and Animal Shelter will teach about subjects such as water safety, school bus safety, and other topics. Safety Town also provides an opportunity for teens to earn community hours by registering as counselors.

Students entering kindergarten in the fall can attend the first session, June 19-23. Students entering first grade can attend the second session, June 26-30. The camp runs from 9:00am12:00pm each day. Registration is open at SafeKidsCherokeeCounty.org.

Cherokee County Safety Town is hosted by Safe Kids Cherokee County and Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. For questions, please contact Lisa Grisham at LMGrisham@cherokeega.com or 678-493-4343.

Event Green Construction Update

One of the most welcoming spots in downtown Woodstock is getting some much-needed TLC, thanks to the leadership of the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority (DDA).

In March, the Woodstock DDA approved a proposal presented by Woodstock Arts Executive Director Christopher Brazelton, requesting improvements to the Event Green and stage. The improvements include grading and resodding the green space; construction of retaining walls, sidewalks, and stairs; installation of monument signs; and the addition of stage storage. The cost of the improvements is estimated at $125K.

The Event Green and stage is used for activities and rentals as well as green space for visitors. This amenity increases community engagement by building artistic spaces and positions Woodstock as a regional leader in the arts.

Heart for Woodstock Encourages Employee Volunteerism

The City of Woodstock has introduced a new service program called Heart for Woodstock. All full-time employees are eligible to spend one full day or two half days on volunteer activities in Cherokee County.

Heart for Woodstock service days make great department team building events and are also a means to get together with other coworkers who have similar interests. The program is 100% voluntary.

Human Resources Generalist Sarah Hugart volunteered by making blankets with a local nonprofit.

Design for Hickory Flat Park To Begin

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a Professional Services Agreement with Lose Design for the planning and design of a new 40-acre Hickory Flat park located at

3552 East Cherokee Drive. The cost for Lose Design services is $43,350. County Manager Geoff Morton told the Board the park is in the beginning planning stages.

The building previously housed the Cherokee County Division of Family and Children Services. For more information on the Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration office, visit CherokeeGaVotes.com.

Great Gardening Apps and Websites

By Joshua Fuder

[Home Life] Despite your experience or area of interest, there are some excellent apps and websites that help answer all sorts of gardening questions.

Sun and Weather

Nearly all fruits and vegetables require eight hours of full, direct sunlight each day. Knowing how much sun the proposed spot for that new raised bed or berry bush receives can be a bit of a guessing game, especially if you’re new to a property. SunCalc. org is excellent for showing sun exposure and its track across the sky. Set an address and dates of the year to get a realistic number of sunlight hours.

UGA’s weather network of 83 stations across the state is a wonderful resource (GeorgiaWeather.net). Rainfall, soil, and air temperature are great, but the real power of this site is its calculator functions. Last frost date helps to understand how late we might experience tomato killing temperatures in spring. Chill hours and rainfall data over a set period is also useful information.

Soil and Seeds

If you need to fill a raised bed with soil, check out the soil calculator at Gardeners.com. When starting seeds indoors, check out the seed-starting date calculator for vegetables, herbs, and a wide variety of flowers at JohnnySeeds.com.

Pests and Problems

UGA has a couple of apps to help fruit and vegetable gardeners identify common disease and insects/ pests: MyIPM for fruits and VegDr for vegetables. A great app for identifying and documenting everything from unknown plants and insects to birds and reptiles is iNaturalist. This apps’ algorithms and sheer number of users make it surprisingly accurate to identify unknown insects and plants. By sharing information through this app, you’re also helping to contribute to science and researchers who are studying everything from invasive species to climate.

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

Weall know that April showers bring May flowers. In Georgia, we might also confidently predict that last month’s rain will bring this month’s mosquitoes. And a recent season of heavy rains will likely yield a bumper crop of them.

Jody Wheeler and Chad Woodall are the co-owners of Mosquito-Free, the leading locally owned mosquito control service. Since they started their business in 2016, they’ve experienced rapid, year-to-year growth in Canton, Woodstock, and the surrounding areas.

With Mosquito-Free’s 8th anniversary in view, those in need of a mosquito control company can try the services at a perfect time, since the company is now featuring its best offer to date.

WHAT SETS MOSQUITO-FREE APART?

From the beginning, Wheeler and Woodall have wanted their interactions with both customers and employees to be positive in every facet.

“We wanted to be the Chick-fil-A of mosquito control,” Woodall says, recalling a certain conversation the two of them had at the outset. He says the success they’ve experienced is largely due to the people they employ.

“During our interview process with each prospective employee, Jody and I tell the story of our initial business planning sessions. It’s important that our team shares our vision. And there’s loyalty on both sides — theirs and ours,” Woodall explains.

The average tenure of Mosquito-Free employees is more than four years. And, currently, the entire team hails from Cherokee County, which adds to the local character of the company. The full-time technicians are licensed in mosquito control and receive ongoing training through the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

Customers have noticed Mosquito-Free’s positive vibe and reliability, having rewarded the company by voting it “Best of Life” for Pest Control/ Mosquito Control in Family Life magazines. Customers have further designated the company as their “Neighborhood Favorite” through Nextdoor

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Mosquito-Free serves Canton and Woodstock as well as Acworth, Jasper, Kennesaw, and neighboring areas. As lifelong residents of Cherokee County, Wheeler and Woodall have found that these cities form a tightknit community.

“The support of this community is another reason for our company’s growth,” says Wheeler. “Area residents love to ‘keep it local’ by supporting businesses such as ours.”

From the time they launched their business, the co-owners have desired to

(L-R) Chad Woodall, John Calhoun, and Jody Wheeler

By Patti Richter

Protect Your Family and Pets

support worthwhile efforts around Cherokee County. Each year, Mosquito-Free offers area churches a complimentary mosquito treatment ahead of summer Vacation Bible School events.

“We have done the same for area Boy Scout outings and for the Great Lake Allatoona Clean-Up,” Wheeler says. “And some of our most rewarding and memorable experiences have come from volunteering at Cast for Kids on Lake Lanier and Special Needs Day at the Lake on Lake Allatoona.”

“We’re doing all we can to keep Cherokee County mosquito free,” adds Woodall.

MOSQUITO-FREE IN ‘23

Who needs Mosquito-Free? Probably most residents, since the metro Atlanta area has once again received the same prestigious award it has earned for the better part of the last decade: Worst Mosquito City in the U.S.

“You never know what mosquitoes are carrying,” Wheeler says. “It’s no wonder that many homeowners rely on us to reduce the mosquito populations. Those who like to spend time outdoors need our services. Our customers won’t have to douse themselves in bug spray anymore.”

Mosquito-borne diseases should be a concern, especially to those with young children and pets. The heartworm parasite can be deadly to pets, and it’s only transmitted by mosquitoes. Prevention by spraying is better than having to treat an infected pet with medication.

On a 21-day cycle, from March through October, Mosquito-Free technicians treat residential yards by applying a solution derived from the extract of Chrysanthemum flowers. The process they use is efficient, affordable, safe for plants, and highly effective.

GETTING STARTED IS EASY

The services that Mosquito-Free offers are listed in detail on the company’s website, where customers can complete a form and receive a quote without delay. Either Wheeler or Woodall will provide an estimate over the phone, although some properties may require an onsite assessment.

“Either Chad or I will answer the phone 99% of the time,” Wheeler says. “Our callers won’t be dialing into a call center and speaking with someone in another city or state. We also respond right away to any issue that concerns a customer.”

2023 Legislative Session Which Bills Passed and Which Are Still Pending?

By State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, MD

Withnew members and new leadership in both chambers, the 2023 Legislative Session got off to a slow start, but the pace picked up, and the last few days of the Session were very busy, as bills flew back and forth between the House and Senate.

Some highlights included finalizing the amended budget, which covers corrections to the current budget that started in July 2022. Addressing the “big” budget, which starts July 1, happened in the final weeks, as subcommittees finished their work. A large percentage of the funds will go to education and health care, and the allocation of funds represents the state’s priorities. The governor is working to return one billion dollars to taxpayers along with another billion in property tax relief.

Legislation pertaining to public safety, particularly anti-crime, antigang, and bail reform bills were passed. As of this writing, we are working on banning TikTok from state devices and prohibiting foreign enemies from purchasing farmland near military bases.

The Senate passed legislation for school choice for kids in failing schools as well as bills that loosen up licensing restrictions to improve the state’s workforce. The lieutenant governor and governor have prioritized foster care and adoption reform, and I am proud to chair the Senate Children and Families committee. We passed several bills to address the well-being of Georgia’s foster kids. A study committee will continue this work for the rest of this year.

Controversial issues including a Prosecutorial Oversight Commission, sports betting, transgender treatment for minor children, regulation of hemp products, and cityhood for Buckhead were also addressed. Most of these are still pending at the time of this writing.

Of my bills, two passed both chambers: SB21, which restructures the Veterans Service Foundation board, and SB23, which repeals inactive boards and commissions. SB135, which updates genetic paternity testing, went to the House floor during the final week of March. SB155 (clarifying the law on cruelty to K-9 animals) and SB20 (regarding adequacy of insurance networks) passed House committees, and SB19, which is about passport fees taken as personal income by court clerks, is still in committee as of mid-March.

Many bills that did not make it to the opposite chamber by Crossover Day found their way into other bills, so a lot of focus was required during the last few days of the session. You can track legislation at Legis.Ga.gov to see where all the bills mentioned in this column now stand. If you have questions about specific legislation, please contact my office.

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

Book Review

BY SARAH CHILDERS

Startingnext month, join your local public library for Summer Discovery 2023 — a time of exploring, connecting, and learning — all at your dynamic destination for discovery, the Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS). Taking place June 1-July 31, Summer Discovery features indoor and outdoor programming for all ages as well as a Summer Discovery specific Beanstack challenge and a fine-free summer!

Make this summer your best one yet with SRLS. In addition to Summer Discovery, there are multiple items and passes you can check out to make the most of the warm weather. Looking for adventure in the great outdoors? Check out the State Park Discovery Backpack and one of your library’s State Park Passes. Want to make some music? Check out a ukulele. Interested in learning a new skill? Check out a sewing machine. There’s something for everyone at your nearest SRLS branch.

Whether you’re planning on starting your next book by the pool or by the window, Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch will have you wishing you were reading in an Italian cafe in the Tuscan countryside. Following the death of her mother, Lina Emerson travels abroad in an attempt to fulfill her mother’s dying wish: that she meet and live with her father in Florence, Italy. When she’s given her mother’s journal that details her time in Florence, Lina discovers a shocking love triangle between her mother, her father, and a mysterious man only referred to as “X.” For summer romance, mystery, and, of course, some gelato, check out Love & Gelato from your local library.

Whether you’re looking for your next read, your next hobby, or your next story time, Sequoyah Regional Library System is proud to be your dynamic destination for discovery. We hope to see you soon!

Sarah Childers is the marketing manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. ChildersS@seqlib.org. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Caring for Baby Teeth

By Steven Anderson, DMD

[Healthy Life] At the dentist office, many parents say things like, “They are just baby teeth. He’ll lose them anyway; why fix them?” Baby teeth (primary teeth) perform a vital role in children’s oral development, and it’s important to maintain them until they naturally come out or need to be removed for oral health reasons. Besides the fact that primary teeth are needed for chewing, they play a vital role in overall health and the longterm stability of the mouth.

Tooth decay can impact a child’s health. Primary teeth are no less prone to tooth decay than adult teeth. If the decay is severe, it can be painful until properly treated. Neglecting to care for primary teeth can lead to facial infections, abscesses, or even life-threatening infections of the head and neck. Children with tooth decay often complain of pain and have trouble eating a regular diet.

Teeth help speech development, too. You may notice that when children lose their two front teeth, they may not speak normally. This is natural. Children who lose primary teeth prematurely, however, may develop a lisp and have difficulty overcoming this condition. Combined, these problems may lower a child’s self-esteem during important formative years. These issues can also affect a child’s ability to concentrate and do well in school.

Another important role of primary teeth is maintaining critical space and jaw stability required for future adult teeth. When this role is overlooked, severe crowding can occur with adult teeth as well as root damage to forming teeth. This situation can require extensive orthodontic treatment that might have been avoided with proper

maintenance. Careful consideration of space closure resulting from loss of certain primary teeth is needed. Space-saving appliances are available when primary teeth are lost too early, enabling proper oral development.

Primary molars are critical for maintaining space for adult teeth, which develop beneath the gums and take some time to erupt. The premature loss of the “space saving” tooth above the adult tooth may cause the space to collapse, preventing the adult tooth from erupting. Primary molars also allow the permanent molars to move into the correct positions at about age 6. Incorrect positioning of adult molars may have detrimental consequences.

Primary teeth are also important in normal facial development because they help maintain the supporting facial bone structure. Early loss of primary teeth may alter normal facial development. Expensive orthodontic solutions may be necessary to correct these problems.

Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew, speak, and develop properly. Practicing excellent oral hygiene and treating dental problems early helps contribute to a happy, healthy child. Talk to your family dentist about any concerns you may have. After all, great dentistry is all about your kids’ teeth, too. 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

Is bigger really better, or does smaller sing to your psyche? Could you find happiness in 500 square feet of inventively designed and aesthetically inviting space? Could you forego square footage to enjoy fewer financial worries, less maintenance, and more free time?

Whether a tiny house begins as a cargo container or a kit, a cottage built from the foundation up, or a manufactured model, tiny homes are psychologically and ecologically friendly. At 10,000 and counting, they are the choice of retirees wanting to downsize, first-time homeowners seeking smaller mortgages, and parents choosing a simpler lifestyle for their families. Tiny homes can be permanent or mobile, the perfect getaway for that lot in the mountains, unique rental spaces, or one’s very own castle.

The HomeTinyTrend Is It for You?

By Ellen Samsell Salas

Where To Call Home?

Deciding whether one wants a tiny house on a permanent site or a “tiny home on wheels” (THOWs) is the first step to living tiny. Some potential owners have their dream location already chosen; others want to be mobile. The choice impacts not only the owner’s happiness but also how the house is built and its cost.

Do-It-Yourself or Ready-Made?

Having a vision is the next step. Those who want to design and build their own house can tap into their imagination and know-how. Tiny homes can be customized to look like cottages, tree houses, log cabins, or the essence of contemporary design.

More often, buyers turn to tiny home manufacturers who offer several models while also helping with financing, zoning requirements, and tailoring their models to fit each client’s desires. While some models adhere to RV standards, design, craftsmanship, and greener materials distinguish tiny homes from typical RVs.

Heads Up

Tiny living does present some hurdles. Party animals need to downsize their entertaining options, and pack rats need to curb their penchant for collecting things.

Whether the home is to be built on a foundation or is a THOW, zoning laws as well as water and power sources need to be checked. Those who opt for a THOW must

Macarena Abascal. Tiny Homes Maximum Style. Berkeley: Gingko Press, Inc., 2020; Ed., Caroline McKenzie. CountryLiving. Tiny Homes: Living Big in Small Spaces. HEARST books

Tiny Homes at a Glance

…

• Are 750 sq. feet or less

• Cost an average of $52K

• Can be mobile or on a permanent site

• Can be homemade or manufactured

• Have small carbon footprints

• Create more time, save money, and lower stress

Easier on the Environment

Tiny houses are eco-friendlier than the standard single-family home. Many are built with recycled materials, use solar power, compost waste, and collect rainwater. Tiny homes can also be designed with RV plug-in capability or stubbed out like a traditional home. No matter which options they rely on, tiny homes use only a fraction of the energy larger homes require.

Nourishment for the Soul

panels take up minimal space while also ensuring some privacy. Drawers are built into stairs, and space under flooring can be used for storage. Also, furniture can be practical as well as attractive. Daybeds act as couches; folding chairs and wall-mounted desks open up space.

Tiny Homes Are Today’s Dream Homes

consider the sizes allowed on U.S. highways, and they must own a truck capable of towing the home or be willing to engage a professional tractor trailer service.

THOW owners also need to plan ahead, know where they will park, the length of allowable stays, and whether power hook-ups are offered. Those who want to spend time with the grandkids need to realize that not all people welcome a “granny flat” moving into the neighborhood.

Easier on the Wallet

Once these hurdles are overcome, living small is definitely easier on the wallet. With an average cost of $52,000 (RubyHome. com/blog/tiny-home-stats), tiny homes do not approach the $336,000 median cost of a traditional home in Georgia (RedFin.com/ state/Georgia/housing-market). Nationwide, 68% of tiny home owners are mortgagefree. Factor in the lower cost of utilities and maintenance, and savings really add up.

At the heart of tiny home appeal are stunning, sometimes whimsical exterior and interior design, and ingenious layouts. These tiny havens can include a kitchen, living and dining areas, bedrooms, office space, a bathroom, and laundry space.

Many tiny homes are designed so that high ceilings give a sense of space, and windows with minimal or no window treatments flood the home with light and bring the outdoors inside. Owners often choose to use light neutral colors on walls, accented by occasional splashes of bright hues; others add charm and character to their homes by mixing contemporary style with vintage wallpapers, area rugs, and furniture.

Clever use of space is key to a tiny home’s comfort. Lofts that serve as bedrooms or offices take advantage of what would be ceiling area; sliding doors and retractable

Tiny homeownership has grown steadily since 2011. More dealers are available, and tiny home communities that offer power hookups, gardening plots, and neighbors who have also embraced the smaller-is-better lifestyle are taking hold in permitted areas.

Are you in the 56% of American adults who would consider making a tiny house their dream home? A labor of love that helps the environment while feeding the soul?

The Importance of Woodstock’s Parks and Trails

By Mayor Michael Caldwell

Oneof the largest drivers of the City of Woodstock’s success, both in an economic sense and in its higher quality of life, has been our focus on parks and recreation. My three main goals for Woodstock this year revolve around making homeownership more widely available, attracting additional high paying jobs and employers to our city, and expanding the generational assets that are our parks and trails. These investments are gifts to ourselves, to our children, and to their children.

At the start of the year, we welcomed Brian Borden, our new Parks and Recreation director. Borden comes with a wealth of experience, most recently serving as the Parks and Recreation director for the City of Brookhaven where he oversaw 19 parks and more than 300 acres of green space and trails. He shares our vision and passion for the impact that parks and recreation can have in building a more vibrant, active city.

Woodstock is fortunate to be known for its world-class parks and trails, and the focus on the balance between a vibrant,

walkable downtown and outdoor recreational opportunities has made it one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

Current offerings range from the more than 50-acre Dupree Park, which offers playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields, to Woofstock Dog Park along our amazing trail system. The mountain biking trails at Olde Rope Mill Park and just outside our city at Blankets Creek rank among the most utilized in the nation. Our multiuse trail system is expanding throughout the city, with the most frequented portion being the Noonday Creek Trail, which starts next to Woodstock Arts Event Green and goes to Highway 92 and westward into Towne Lake. Right of way and funding has already been acquired to extend the southern portion of this segment into Cobb County to connect with its extensive trail system, which will tie Woodstock’s trails to the Silver Comet Trail, into Atlanta, and beyond.

Among the most exciting opportunities ahead is Little River Park. The City Council has compiled this 106-acre park site along Little River, which will be Woodstock’s largest park offering, comprising nearly half of the City-owned green space. Extending from Trickum Road down to the Woodlands, the park is proposed to offer paddle launches, boardwalks, treehouses and viewing platforms, disc golf, a dog park, picnic areas, and an incredible nature experience. The trail system will extend throughout the length of the park, creating significant east/west connectivity for this important recreational asset and alternative transportation option.

City Council has tasked staff with making significant progress on Little River Park this year. In the coming few years, we expect to complete this project and continue to expand the recreational opportunities that are core to what makes Woodstock so great.

I can’t overstate the importance that these public assets play in maintaining the incredible quality of life, attractiveness, and economic competitiveness that our community has come to expect. We will continue to focus on expanding these offerings to establish Woodstock as a regional trail hub. The new green space and the connection of our trail system to the communities around us will create a higher quality of life for our residents and visitors.

Michael Caldwell is the mayor of the City of Woodstock. 678-523-8570. WoodstockGa.gov

Five Questions To Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Company

By Juan Reyes

[Home Life] With so many companies vying for your business, it pays to take the time to ask the right questions before settling on a roofing contractor in your area. Here are five questions you should ask when choosing the perfect company for your project.

1. How many years of experience do you have?

Ask contractors how many years they’ve been in business (most roofing companies go out of business in less than five years) and what quality assurance certification(s) they possess. For example, inquire about their rating by the Better Business Bureau or Manufacturers’ certifications such as the GAF Master Elite certification.

2. Are you licensed and insured?

This is vitally important for your own protection should any damage or injury occur on the job. The contractor should also be able to provide proof of licensing and insurance before beginning any work on your property.

3. Can you provide references?

Ask for a minimum of 2-3 recent references from homeowners or business owners who have hired them in the past. Contact the references and ask detailed questions about their experience, such as if they were satisfied with the quality of work, how the contractor handled any issues that arose, and if they would recommend them to others. You can also check online reviews.

4. What warranties do you offer?

It’s essential to ask what types of warranties are provided (labor and materials or materials only) and how long they last.

5. What type of material will be used?

Different materials offer different levels of durability and protection, so it’s essential to find out which material the contractor will be using and the average lifespan you can expect.

Bonus Tip

Look for detailed roofing estimates. To avoid unpleasant surprises down the line, make sure the bid includes a detailed description of the scope of work, labor costs, materials, and project timeline.

Juan Reyes is the owner of Pro Roofing & Siding. 2558 Canton Road, Marietta. 770-373-7064. MyProRoofing.com

What’s the Deal With Lithium-Ion Batteries?

By Lisa M. Grisham, CPSTI

Lithium-Ion batteries supply power to many types of devices including smart phones, laptops, scooters, e-cigarettes, some smoke alarms, toys, hover boards, and even cars. If not taken care of, they can lead to fires and even explosions. In Cherokee County, several fires have started due to problems with these types of batteries.

What Are the Dangers Associated With Lithium-Ion Batteries?

These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. Sometimes, batteries are used incorrectly or are possibly defective, which can lead to overheating followed by fire or an explosion. If you notice a change in color or shape, leaking, odd noises, an odor, or too much heat, move the device away from anything flammable (if possible) and call 911.

In recent years, firefighters have discovered that lithium-ion battery fires are prone to reigniting due to the lithium salts in the battery. They are self-oxidizing, which means they can’t be “starved out” like traditional fires.

How Do You Extinguish a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire?

Lithium-ion batteries are considered a class B (flammable liquid) hazard. If the fire is small, a standard ABC fire extinguisher will do the trick. But this type of fire must be cooled to a temperature below the ignition point (932 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent it from reigniting, which is why it’s a good idea to call 911 and let the experts handle the situation.

As the popularity of electric vehicles and other devices that utilize lithium-ion batteries grows, so will the number of fires and other accidents that involve them. The chances of them catching fire are not high, but understanding the possibility and what to do if it occurs is crucial.

What If the Battery No Longer Holds a Charge?

If the battery no longer holds a charge, proper disposal is important. Recycling is always the best option. Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Also, don’t store discarded batteries in piles. To find a location for recycling or disposal, please visit Call2Recycle.org.

Additional Tips To Keep Your Family Safe

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Only use the battery designed for that device.

• Put batteries in the device the correct way.

• Only use the charging cord that came with the device.

• Do not charge the device or device battery after it is fully charged.

• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32 degrees or above 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.

• Charge e-bikes and cars on a flat dry surface and away from children, direct sunlight, liquids, and tripping hazards (NFPA.org).

Lisa M. Grisham is the senior fire safety educator for Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services and the coordinator for Safe Kids Cherokee County. 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 678-493-6296. CherokeeCountyFire.org

Artist Profile

BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Linda Freeman Inspired by Nature

With her husband and three young children, Linda Freeman lives in the Ball Ground house where she grew up, the house where her love of painting and collaging took hold.

“Art is in the fiber of my family,” says Freeman, whose grandmother was a quilter and mother is a skilled craft artist. “I look at art as a way of being — whether or not I make a career out of it.”

Inspired by the beauty of nature, Freeman takes photos of flowers, leaves, or whatever else of beauty she might incorporate into her art. She keeps a notebook, sketching ideas as they come to her.

While her collages and paintings appear minimalist, they convey beauty and meaning through her keen sense of composition, color, texture, and depth. Freeman captures the translucency and shimmer of hydrangea blossoms by applying many small pieces of torn paper and conveys the simple joy of a box of freshly picked blueberries by starting with a solid painted basket and then adding layers of torn paper.

After she visualizes a piece, she begins. As Freeman works, she allows the piece to dictate what is needed to achieve harmony of line, shape, movement, color, tone, and texture. She might enhance a threedimensional effect by using a dollop of paint applied with a palette knife, by squirting paint directly from the tube onto her canvas, or by adding layers of paper.

Once her mind is on her art, she can work for hours. “I just play,” she says. “I’m in my own world — it becomes obsessive.”

Freeman also likes to incorporate different textures into her art.

“When I paint, I’ll use different types of paper. I’ll use acrylic and watercolor paint, depending on how I want the paint to blend,” she explains.

Sometimes, she adds found objects and leftover paper scraps, or paints paper using brushes of varying widths and shapes, then tears or cuts the paper she will apply. Experimenting with blending, Freeman mixes paints by putting one color on a piece of

paper and a second color on another piece of paper, then presses the two pieces together. Although her palettes are often seasonal, for some works, she uses only one color but plays with its tone and texture.

While Freeman does not attempt to convey specific messages through her art, she says, “A piece of my heart goes with every piece I make. I want to make things that bring people joy. I want to create happy things. The home should be a happy place, and I want my art to be part of that.”

For more information, or to view additional works by Freeman, visit LindaFreemanArt.com or find her on Instagram @l.freemanart.