Woodstock Family Life 9-21 by Family Life Magazines

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Contents

September 2021

VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 2

18-19

[18-19]

On the Cover

Dickerson for Georgia

24-25

Fun Museums Close to Home

28 Teacher Feature

Hannah Braswell

Riverfest Is Back!

[30] [24-25] [28] Follow Us >>>

Woodstock Family Life

Family Life Publications

| September 2021

.......................... Perspective

.............................. Calendar

................. Woodstock Notes

.................... Community Life

................... Senator Speaks

....................... National Night Out Photos

........................ Public Safety

................... Ribbon Cuttings

........................ Book Review

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Publisher’s Perspective

ast month, when my family and I were in the weeks of blending our summer with the back-to-school regimen, we suddenly found a time when all of our calendars were mostly clear. Looking forward to some downtime, we chose to reserve a campsite and enjoy the lake.

On the way to the campsite, we came upon a truck partially parked off the roadway, and I slowed to ask if everything was okay. Standing next to the vehicle was a gentleman who was helping another man into the back seat. The gentleman replied, “Yes, we’re just giving him a ride.” The rider, who was wearing a crooked ballcap and appeared to be in his 30s, turned and smiled. I smiled back, nodded at the driver, and drove on to the gate to check in. As I pulled up to our site a few moments later, the young man with the crooked ballcap was on the site next to ours, just finishing making camp. He was obviously well practiced. I exchanged polite salutations with “Josie,” a kind man who seemed of modest means. Just before my family and I left, I asked him if he needed anything other than a bag of ice. Since he didn’t have transportation, he was going to need ice for his perishables. He politely accepted my offer as his only need, and we bid each other goodnight. The next day, my wife Vicky brought our cooler containing lunches and an extra bag of ice for our camp neighbor. He was very thankful. There was something very pleasant and comfortable about Josie. He mentioned he was “getting it (life) in order” and was at peace with God’s plan and the pace that it was unfolding for him. It was refreshing. As my family prepared to head home on the last day of our trip, I walked back over to Josie’s tent to wish him well. He exited his tent with a small worn Bible in his hand. We spoke again for a moment, and I was about to turn and leave, but I paused to ask him if he needed anything else. He motioned upwards with a flick of his Bible and said, “Do you hear that?” I replied, “The birds? Yes, Josie, I hear them — and thank you.” We understood. “The believer looks at the birds in the sky, that do not reap nor gather into the barns, and trust that the Father will provide,” (Matthew 6:26). We smiled and parted ways. I left thinking that we all need to pause once in a while. Life is busy; it’s hard and can beat up on us. Take a step back from this “get it now” culture to reflect on what is truly important. Just do your best and patiently persevere.

Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Vicky Tuszynski Vicky@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steven Anderson, Stacy Brown, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Lori Karnes, Jason Lingerfelt, Barbara P. Jacoby, Harrison Jones, Tim Morris, Tim Prather, Juan Reyes, John Rodgers, Andy Rogers, Bruce Thompson

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095

Also available online at

FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. 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. 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. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

Add

E R EC Y C

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cyndi Braun

M AG A ZI

Persevering

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com

PLE

Patiently

PUBLISHER/SALES Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

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How To Ensure a Seamless Home Buying/Selling Process By Jason Lingerfelt

[HomeLife] Buying and selling a home is a process, and without the right help, it can be very challenging and stressful. There are three things you need to make the process easy:

1. An Experienced Realtor (regardless of buying or selling) An experienced realtor will help guide you through all the offers you will make/receive as a buyer or seller. A realtor will keep you informed of your transaction and will fight for your rights based on the contract if a problem occurs. Research your realtor online before making a final decision.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

2. An Experienced Local Lender/ Mortgage Broker An experienced local lender/mortgage broker will know your market better than a national call center lender. A local lender will understand the market where you are making your purchase and should be available during the process to answer your financing questions.

3. An Experienced Closing Attorney Not all people, property, and loans are the same, so each one requires an experienced touch. A great attorney will use a custom approach for each transaction, tailoring

each closing to the needs of the parties involved. While all closing attorneys will accept “cookie cutter” closings, not all will take the time and effort to make sure every possible deal will close. The best attorney will take the time to work with all involved parties to make sure the transaction will close smoothly.

Jason Lingerfelt is the managing attorney at Lingerfelt & Associates. 1700 River Park Boulevard, Woodstock. 678-631-1040. LAClosings.com

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Calendar SEPTEMBER

LunchIN’ — Enjoy this lunchtime meeting featuring Jim Bulger, president and founder of WorkThrive, as he talks about “Rebuilding, Re-engaging, and Managing Your Workforce Post-COVID.” Reservations are required due to limited seating. 11:30am12:30pm, Chattahoochee Technical College board room, 8371 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org/events

3, 17, & 10/2

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

3 & 10/1

iThink Improv Troupe This troupe will have audiences rolling down the aisle with laughter, fully spaced out in the theatre! Bring friends and family to enjoy a hilarious evening filled with spontaneous moments. Tickets $5; recommended for ages 10+ (content). 8:00pm, City Center Auditorium, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org

4&5

Summer Vibes Live Musical Entertainment Enjoy FREE live music. All performances will be held on the main stage near the Food Court. 2:00-6:00pm, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 678-540-7040. TheOutletShoppesAtAtlanta. com/events

4 & 10/2

9 & 11, 10/2, & 7

The Lasting Laugh Enjoy this new hybrid comedy series that brings in two different Atlanta-based comedians monthly, hosted by Jessica It’s All Good. Tickets $10, recommended for ages 12+ (content). 7:30pm, City Center Auditorium, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmsStreetArts.org

11th Annual Taste of Woodstock Woodstock area restaurants will serve delicious samples of their best dishes and compete in a variety of categories. The event benefits the Woodstock High School Band Program. Admission is free. Tickets 50 cents each, and packages start at $5. Restaurants may not accept cash, and samples are priced between one and eight tickets each. 5:00-9:00pm, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Event Green, 8534 Main Steet, Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com

EmPOWer This is a Young Professionals IN WDSTK networking event designed to create relationships and spark personal development, all while having a great time. 6:00-8:00pm, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org

Beginning Knitting Classes — Learn how to cast on, how to knit, and how to pearl. The shop will also be hosting a free stitch night on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-9:00pm and free knitting help on Thursdays from 5:00-7:00pm. 10:00am-12:00pm, One More Row, 6234 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite D1, Woodstock. OneMoreRow.net

9-10/31

Erik Scherb and Madeleine Soloway This FREE duo exhibit features fine art and photography from two talented artists. Tuesday-Thursday 8:00am-9:00pm, Friday 8:00am-10:00pm, Saturday 9:00am10:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am-8:00pm, the Reeves House Gallery, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. ElmStreetArts.org

ONGOING Brown Bag Concert Series — Thursdays. Enjoy FREE lunchtime concerts! Bring a chair and pack a lunch or take out lunch from one of Woodstock’s great downtown restaurants. 12:00-1:00pm, The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. WoodstockParksAndRec.com YPOW AM — Thursdays. Young professionals. FREE event, but please register since space is limited. Networking, featuring an informal chat with a local leader. 7:00-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org/events

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

Free CPR/AED Certification Class Last Saturday of each month. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org Unwind Wednesdays — First Wednesday of each month through November, gather your family and friends to enjoy food trucks, live music, and other monthly activities. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

Woodstock Walkers Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Ages 50+. 8:00am, Dupree Park, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. WoodstockGa.gov Masters Disc Golf — Fridays. Ages 50+. Discs provided or bring your own. Registration required. 9:00am, Dupree Park, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. WoodstockGa.gov Woodstock Farm Fresh Market — Saturdays through 12/18, enjoy your hometown farmers market. 8:30am-12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock.VisitWoodstockGa.com

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9/11 Patriot Day Ceremony — Come together with others in the Cherokee County community to remember those we lost on this 20th anniversary of 9/11. Please visit the website for additional details about the event. 8:30am, Rotary Park (at the public safety memorial between the Historic Cherokee County Courthouse and the Justice Center), downtown Canton. CherokeeGa.com

Cherokee Music Teachers Association Meeting — CMTA is composed of public, private, and collegiate music teachers who desire to foster a love of music in their students, and to offer the best quality music education. All those interested in CMTA are invited to attend. Brunch will be served. 10:00am12:00pm, Woodstock Library, 7735 Main Street, Woodstock. Linda@lokey.net. CherokeeMTA.org

Free AHA First Aid and Stop the Bleed Class — Learn First Aid skills including how to help someone involved in a traumatic bleeding incident. This fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am First Aid; 1:30pm Stop the Bleed, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org

Paws in the Pool — Bring your doggy for a swim in the Oasis before it’s closed for the year. Dog owners must show proof of vaccination for distemper, parvo, and rabies. $10 per dog. Small dogs (under 35 pounds) 12:00-12:45pm and large dogs (over 35 pounds) 1:00-2:00pm, 2:153:15pm, and 3:30-4:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

Native American History and Archaeology in Woodstock History Cherokee’s Lisa Tressler will cover the diverse history of Woodstock and Cherokee County followed by a coffee and dessert reception. This FREE event requires advanced registration by visiting Bit.ly/3fCsGNi. 7:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center Activity Expansion. 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. Facebook.com/ WoodstockParksRec

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

9/11 Day of Remembrance — On this 20th anniversary, gather to honor those we have lost and the service men and women who continue to fight for our freedom. Visit Woodstock’s 9/11 Memorial that features two subway tracks recovered from beneath the rubble of the World Trade Center. A limited supply of 9/11 Remembrance lapel pins will also be distributed. 7:00pm, The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1952. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Morning INfluence — Breakfast is served at this networking event, which includes a brief presentation that focuses on important issues or services that affect the Woodstock community. This is a FREE event, but please register since space is limited. 8:00-9:00am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org/events

Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $5. All proceeds support seniors and senior veterans of Cherokee County. 11:30am-1:00pm, The Arbor at BridgeMill, 700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

Cherokee County Master Gardener Fall Plant Sale Peruse a great selection of bulbs and unique perennials. Don’t miss the new pitcher bog plants. 9:00am-1:00pm, Cherokee County Senior Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com

Touch-a-Truck — This FREE event gives kids a chance to see their favorite vehicles such as a fire truck, helicopter, and police car while meeting hometown heroes. Event also includes food vendors and games. 9:30am-2:00pm (quiet time for those with sensitive ears from 9:3010:00am), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. PlayCherokee.org [continued on page 8]

CONCERTS

Woodstock Summer Concert Series Presents Christopher Cross — Enjoy this FREE concert by the artist who produced hit songs including “Sailing,” “Arthur’s Theme,” and “Ride Like the Wind.” 7:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1952. WoodstockConcertSeries.com

Woodstock Summer Concert Series Presents Rumours Enjoy this FREE concert by the area’s premiere Fleetwood Mac tribute band. 7:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1952. WoodstockConcertSeries.com

Lantern Series: Black Market Trust — This American traditional pop/vocal jazz group from Los Angeles combines the sounds of legendary American crooners and vocal groups with the fire and energy of Gypsy Jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. 7:30pm, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org

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Calendar

LIBRARY EVENTS

continued from page 7

SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org 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 LET’S TALK — NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK September 9, 6:00pm, Rose Creek Join the Cherokee County Suicide Prevention Coalition to learn how to decrease the stigma associated with mental illness and how to spot signs of those in need of help. TODDLER SENSORY PLAY September 13, 10:30am, Rose Creek — There’s so much to see, touch, hear, and smell during this fun program, which is best suited for children ages 4 and younger. LIBRARY VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) September 13, 5:30pm, Hickory Flat Curious about VR? Head to the library for a night of VR fun and games. This event is for all ages. No prior VR experience is required. LIBRARY MINI-GOLF September 20, 3:30pm, Hickory Flat Enjoy some fun mini-golf games in the library! All equipment is provided, and all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate. VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE September 24, 10:00am, Woodstock Walk around Jurassic Park, meet dinosaurs, and experience the beautiful scenery in this virtual reality experience. MEMORY MAKER STONES September 27, 4:00pm, Woodstock Celebrate the new school year with a memory maker stone! Each participant will create a garden stone with a handprint and mosaic glass. 8

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

Support Our Military Heroes Car Show & Motorcycle Ride Fundraiser Motorcycle ride is 60 miles through Cherokee County with an Honor Ride through the Georgia National Cemetery. The car show will include live entertainment. This event supports the Cherokee Veterans Community. Motorcycles $25/$10 registration, cars $25, cash only on the day of the event. 9:00am event, 10:00am car show, 10:30am motorcycle ride, First Baptist Church of Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org/events

Car Show Fundraiser for Autism Speaks — See awesome cars, Star Wars characters, a karate demonstration, and a car crushing event. There will also be food trucks and raffles. Registration fee is $20 for car show competitors. 8:00am-1:00pm, DW Campbell Tire, 1906 Professional Way, Woodstock. 770-928-7363.

Back to School Sip + Shop Your favorite shops will have special deals, light bites, and festive beverages along the way. At the start of the event, pick up your tote and directory of participating merchants at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Historic Dean’s Store (8588 Main Street). Register for raffle prizes as well. Tickets $10. 5:009:00pm, downtown Woodstock. 770-9240406. VisitWoodstockGa.com

21-26

Cherokee County Fair Bring the family to experience rides, food, and fun! Parking is $2 per car. Admission is free for children under 5 and adults over 65, $2 for ages 6-12, and $5 for ages 13-64. Carnival ride arm bands are $25. Gates open Tuesday and Friday 5:00pm, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday 3:00pm, The American Legion Thomas M. Brady Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. 770-479-4405 x1. GaLegion45.org

25-26

37th Annual Riverfest This annual arts and crafts festival is the Service League of Cherokee County’s flagship fundraising event where all funds raised support Cherokee County children in need. Enjoy over 150 exhibitors, 10-15 concessionaires, and a host of local entertainers. Admission is $5 per person 11 years and older. Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm and Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net

OCTOBER

8th Annual Run, Walk, or Roll 5K Presented by PowerSecure, participate in person or virtually wherever you are. This annual fundraiser helps support day programs for people with special needs in the Woodstock area. 7:00am, First Baptist Church of Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. RunWalkOrRoll.com

17th Annual Autumn Fest This FREE event will have over 80 arts and crafts vendors along with a kids’ zone and food trucks. 10:00am5:00pm, Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us/autumnfest

It’s a Wibit — A Wibit is a giant floating playground on water. Children must be able to pass a 25-yard swim test to play on the Wibit. Children under 14 must have a paid adult on the pool deck supervising them. 12:00-4:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org Add

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Woodstock Notes

City of Woodstock

9/11 Day of Remembrance By Stacy Brown

his year marks the 20th anniversary of 9/11. At 7:00pm on September 11, in The Park at City Center, the City of Woodstock will remember those we lost 20 years ago and honor our first responders — police, fire, and emergency personnel — as well as the service men and women who continue to serve, fight, and sacrifice for our freedom and safety. Since September 11, 2006, the City of Woodstock has hosted the 9/11 Day of Remembrance Ceremony. This annual observance stands as a solemn reminder that we should not take our freedoms for granted. People often wonder how the 9/11 memorial in The Park at City Center came to be. In 2016, a resident of Woodstock made City leaders aware of a newspaper article concerning the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey distributing artifacts salvaged

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

from Ground Zero after the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center. Distribution of these artifacts was being offered to remind future generations of the events that occurred on September 11, 2001. Mayor Donnie Henriques sent a letter to the Port Authority requesting that the City of Woodstock be considered for an artifact. Several months went by before notification was received that Woodstock had been selected to receive two 12-foot sections of subway track that were from the subway station located beneath the World Trade Center. On May 25, 2016, two Woodstock Public Works employees attended a ceremony at JFK International Airport in New York and retrieved the sections of track from

a storage facility to bring to Woodstock. A permanent memorial was designed, which is in The Park at City Center in downtown Woodstock. The memorial serves as a reminder to generations of Woodstock residents of that fateful day when some 3,000 people lost their lives in the largest terrorist attack ever on our nation’s soil. Please join fellow Woodstock citizens for this year’s 9/11 Day of Remembrance Ceremony. Woodstock Parks and Recreation will be giving away commemorative lapel pins to attendees while supplies last.

Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the City of Woodstock. 770-592-6056. WoodstockGa.gov

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Daytrippin’ With the

Silver Roamers By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] The Silver Roamers have been an active adult group in Cherokee County for several years. Its members love to travel, and they go on several day trips throughout the year. Formerly under Cherokee Recreation & Parks, Senior Services is now responsible for overseeing the group. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, contact with the group, traveling, and monthly meetings did not happen for more than a year. So, the more than 100 Silver Roamers dropped to less than 50 members. Silver Roamers finally started up again this past May. Wayne Urquhart was hired to lead the group. He was already a staff member at Senior Services. Some of the active Silver Roamers were included in the interview process, and Urquhart was their favorite from the start. During his first few months on the job, the group expanded to 74 members.

The Roamers’ ages range from 50s-80s. Since they’re such an adventurous group, they’ve been dubbed the “bungee jumping adults” because they’re not afraid to try anything. When asked about his vision for the group, Urquhart said, “I see lack of socialization as a big problem with getting older. Many are divorced, widowed, or have few family members around, but they just don’t want to sit home alone every day. Some have spouses who are unable to do much, so this group meets a need. I think that Silver Roamers helps those who wouldn’t venture to the places we travel to, or for some, even a restaurant without having someone to go with them.” Silver Roamers are just getting started with future programing in Cherokee County for active adults. The Body Recall/ Pickle Ball group, led by Nathan Brandon, is full of active adults who meet three days a week. If you or someone you know would like more information about any of the groups mentioned in this column, please contact Senior Services (770-479-7438) or Wayne Urquhart (770-345-2675). L Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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

Community Local Nonprofit Distributes Backpacks to Students

Joshua Clark, age

packs.

6, helps stuff back

Act Together Ministries recently distributed more than 200 backpacks to local foster children through its annual Tools 4 School program. The ministry, which has served the community for 12 years, provided nearly $20,000 worth of school supplies to six local group homes, as well as to individual foster families, and continues to support those families year-round.

Several community partners came together to sponsor children this year including Heritage Presbyterian, the Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation, as well as other businesses, organizations, and individual donors. In October, Act Together will gear up for its annual Christmas sponsorship program and is looking for people in the community to assist with toy drives, volunteer to help transport toys, offer their school or office as a collection location, or host an angel tree. To help, please visit AcTogetherMinistries.org. Families can also sign up for one-to-one sponsorship and can be matched with a child the same age and gender as their own children.

Marine Corps League Awards Scholarships Marine Corps League Detachment #1311 of Woodstock recently announced the winners of its 2021 Scholarship Program. Recipients were selected based on their academic rankings, scouting experience, and community involvement. Katee Hensley, Analise Black, and Noah Fornuto (not pictured) were this year’s winners. Scholarships were funded through proceeds from the Marine Corps League Golf Tournament held in April.

Bert’s Big Adventure Now Accepting Applications for 2022 Families Bert’s Big Adventure, a nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families, is excited to announce applications and nominations for 2022 are being accepted. Families chosen for this program receive a VIP experience including airfare, hotel, souvenirs, private character visits and dining, dessert parties, and all-access passes to the Walt Disney World parks. To qualify, children must be 5-12 years old with a diagnosis of a chronic or terminal illness. They must also have never been to Walt Disney World. The family must prove financial need and live in the radio listening area of The Bert Show, a nationally syndicated morning radio show based in Atlanta.

(L-R) Susan Austin and Karen Lawrence presen t scholarships to Analise Black and Katelyn Hensl ey, as Rich Sabo, Commanda nt of Marine Corps Lea gue Detachment #1311 loo ks on.

The complete application and nomination forms are available online at BertsBigAdventure.org/nominate-achild-or-apply. You can also anonymously nominate a family. All applications must be submitted by September 10.

Rock the Stock! The Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta is excited to announce its inaugural Rock the Stock Benefit Concert on October 14 at the Northside Cherokee Hospital Amphitheater in downtown Woodstock. Concertgoers will enjoy live performances from Rodney Atkins, Pryor & Lee, and Eric Dodd. All proceeds support the Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club in Cherokee County, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Tickets are available at BGCMA.org/rockthestock.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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Community Elm Street Rebrands to Woodstock Arts

Last month, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village officially rebranded as Woodstock Arts. So what does this mean exactly?

Cherokee County Welcomes New Community Development Agency Director Brantley Day, who began his new role as the county’s community development agency director on July 29, brings more than 20 years of municipal planning and community development management experience to the position.

The organization will still have the events and experiences you’ve come to know and anticipate, like Lantern Series concerts, theatrical productions, classes and camps, the traditional holiday production of A Christmas Carol, and now an expansive visual arts program — it’ll just be under the name Woodstock Arts with some pretty sleek branding by designer Tom Cox.

“Being selected as the next community development agency director is an incredible honor. I am excited and thrilled to be joining the outstanding Cherokee County team,” Day said. “In my service with Woodstock and Holly Springs, we’ve collaborated over the years. I’m looking forward to us working together to continue to meet and address the challenges of growth pressure, infrastructure needs, and service delivery to continue to have the high quality of life that we enjoy today. As a county resident for nearly 20 years, I’m thankful to have this opportunity to contribute and join the fantastic team at Cherokee County.”

Woodstock Arts wants to be clear and proud of what it is — an arts center FOR the Woodstock community — and the staff can’t wait to welcome you soon!

The community development agency director is responsible for overseeing planning and zoning, stormwater management, public works, building inspections, roadway/SPLOST, and engineering.

Woodstock Business Club Where Business Leaders Go To Find Business By Amy Cassaniti Looking for a great meet-up? Love making it local, live, and LOUD? Meet the dynamic professionals of the Woodstock Business Club (WBC). Each week, up to 85 members gather to share insights, ideas, and successes. WE DON’T JUST GET STUFF DONE – WE HAVE FUN! Weekly meetings always leave time for shout-outs to celebrate business referrals, and members are encouraged to plan one-on-one meetings during the week. On the third Thursday of each month, WBC holds a social event at a downtown Woodstock establishment. WBC members consistently report that they have seen referrals and overall business increase as a direct result of relationships and contacts developed through club meetings and events. Don’t miss your chance to meet us, know us, and work with us! Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

FamilyLife Publications.com

Community Three Cherokee County Prosecutors Honored

Construction Begins on New Holly Springs Town Center

At this year’s Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council (PAC) of Georgia annual summer conference, three Cherokee County prosecutors received awards from the District Attorneys’ Association of Georgia (DAAG) and the , llace, Rachel Ashe Georgia Association of (L-R) Shannon Wa and David McElyea Solicitors-General (GASG).

Construction is underway at the landmark new Holly Springs Town Center near the intersection of Hickory Road and Holly Springs Parkway. The long-anticipated new development will further energize downtown Holly Springs with a walkable destination inspired by a traditional Main Street that weaves together civic and community spaces with an array of retail establishments, restaurants, and homes.

Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace was recognized as District Attorney of the Year, Chief Assistant Solicitor-General David McElyea was awarded Assistant SolicitorGeneral of the Year, and Assistant District Attorney Rachel Ashe was honored as Assistant District Attorney of the Year for Division 2.

The heart of the Town Center will be a new City Hall, which will face an inviting market plaza and grand lawn designed for festivals, markets, and community events. A new outdoor amphitheater will be situated at the other end of the grand lawn, and 30,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space will be featured on each side. The Town Center will offer ample parking with a dedicated parking deck. In addition, residential options will include new homes and townhomes for sale as well as luxury lofts for lease.

DA Wallace has served as district attorney of the Blue Ridge Judicial District since 2013. In addition to leading her staff of 53 prosecutors, investigators, victim advocates, and support personnel, she is a board member of the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS), Cherokee FOCUS, and Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club. She is also a member of the Canton Rotary Club and Cherokee S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together). ASG David McElyea is the chief assistant solicitor-general. In his 18-year career as a prosecutor, he has handled everything from ordinance cases to vehicular homicides, minor traffic charges to complex DUIs, and family violence matters to drug crimes. For the past 15 years, he has served as Cherokee’s DUI Court prosecutor, in addition to being an active member of GASG’s Appellate Committee. ADA Rachel Ashe is deputy chief assistant district attorney of the Domestic Violence Unit. In her nine-year career, she has prosecuted everything from traffic offenses to heinous murders, but now solely prosecutes intimate partner violence crimes. Prior to joining the District Attorney’s Office in 2018, she was a prosecutor in the Solicitor-General’s Office.

For more information, please visit HollySpringsTownCenter.com.

New Recreation Center Coming to Cherokee Veterans Park The recently approved construction contract of the LB Ahrens Recreation Center was in the amount of $10.4 million and an additional $1.58 million in a county-controlled contingency using Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds and impact fees. The first phase of the recreation center, known in short as “The Buzz” in honor of former Commission Chairman LB “Buzz” Ahrens, includes a double gym, open fitness area, climbing wall, two classrooms, aerobics/dance studio, a large meeting hall with catering kitchen, and an office suite along with accompanying restrooms, mechanical, electrical, and storage areas. The construction services contract also includes a secondary parking lot, pedestrian crossing to the park playground, and infrastructure for EV charging stations.

Two Cherokee County Swimmers Win State Championships Two of the 57 swimmers who qualified to participate in the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association (GRPA) Class A State Meet returned home as state champions. Cherokee County residents qualified for 23 final events at this year’s GRPA Class A State Meet. Cal Wiley (L) secured a 1st place win and a personal record of 16.99 in the Boys 8U 25-yard 14

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

fly event, and Genevieve McKinley (R) earned 1st place and a personal record of 17.35 in the Girls 10U 25-yard breaststroke event. “We are so proud of our Cherokee swimmers,” said Cherokee Aquatics Division Director Kim Whatley. “All of our swimmers went out and did their best, and we could not be prouder of how they represented Cherokee County on the state level.” Add

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Community

2021 Historic Preservation Awards Announced The Annual Historic Preservation Awards Banquet, held on August 12, recognized these six historic property owners in Cherokee County for their outstanding work in historic preservation: • • • • • •

Bakner Manufacturing Building, Canton Granger Building, Woodstock Grogan House, Woodstock Wofford-Watkins House, Ball Ground The Mill at Etowah, Canton Old Sixes Schoolhouse, Canton

Granger Building

Grogan House

The annual awards are given to encourage and educate the community about the benefits of protecting the county’s unique history. Properties are judged by the attention given to preserving historic features and maintaining the integrity of initial design.

CCSD Updates

 Clark Creek ES Named Georgia Title I Distinguished School Clark Creek ES STEM Academy achieved the prestigious recognition, awarded only to the top 5% of Title I schools in the state, based on its students’ academic success and progress. Title I schools are those that serve higher populations of students who qualify for free or reducedprice lunch. Georgia’s Distinguished Schools, including Clark Creek, are now eligible to apply for the National Distinguished Schools Award; each state can select two schools for the national recognition.

 Two Schools Honored by National PTA for Excellence River Ridge HS and Woodstock HS are winners of the National PTA School of Excellence award, a two-year title that recognizes outstanding partnerships between local PTAs and schools “to build an inclusive and welcoming school-community where all families contribute to enriching the educational experience and overall well-being for all students.” To be considered for this honor, a school and its PTA unit must commit to working together to set and meet goals for improving family engagement.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

 School Nurse of the Year Honored The new awards program was developed in the spring with Children’s CCSD COO Dr. De Healthcare bra Murdock; Nurse of the Year Nadia Jones; Oak Grove of Atlanta, a ES Principal Penny Va lle; Board Chair Ky CCSD Partner. la Cromer ; Janet Re ad, Children’s Healt hcare of Atlanta commun On National ity development offi cer; and Superintende School Nurse nt Dr. Brian V. High tower. Appreciation Day in May, a top school nurse was selected from each Innovation Zone (a high school and its feeder schools) and surprised with award presentations. The Zone winners advanced to the CCSD School Nurse of the Year Award judging, with the winner selected by a panel of nursing professionals and retired educators. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower and School Board Chair Kyla Cromer recently presented the inaugural CCSD School Nurse of the Year award to Oak Grove ES STEAM Academy School Nurse Nadia Jones. The presentation was made during a professional development event for school nurses at Cherokee High School. Nurse Jones received an iPad, engraved plaque and other gifts, all sponsored by Children’s Healthcare, in recognition of her award.

FamilyLife Publications.com

Senator Speaks

Emotional Reactions By State Senator Bruce Thompson

ur family has a miniature dachshund named Bella, and she is as sweet as they come. If there is such thing as a lap dog, she definitely qualifies. When people enter our home, she quickly greets them and barks until they acknowledge her presence. Recently, my son was getting up from his chair and accidentally stepped on Bella, causing her to yelp before retreating to her bed. Realizing she may be hurt, he approached in hopes of consoling her. When he reached out with his hand to pet her on the head, he was met with an unexpected response instead of the normal nose nudge or lick. This time, Bella growled and lunged forward, snapping as though she wanted to take off a chunk of his hand. Humans are a lot like animals. When we have been physically or emotionally hurt, we tend to react negatively toward those who love us. Maybe it’s a normal defense mechanism or a deeper-rooted problem, but either way, we must resist the urge to growl or even snap at those who truly care about us.

Sometimes, we treat those who are closest to us a lot worse than those outside our love perimeter. It may come from an unresolved conflict or even a childhood situation that triggers our emotions, but a festering “wound” only grows into a full-blown infection with devastating consequences. The word of God tells us to be gentle, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” (Proverbs 15:1). So, be careful when communicating with those who matter most to you.

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

August 3, local public safety agencies joined forces with thousands of communities nationwide for this annual event, which was held in The Park at City Center in Woodstock. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen police and community partnerships, and to send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are uniting to fight crime. This year’s event was a great success due to the sponsorships, partnerships, community support, and especially the local men and women in public safety who serve and protect.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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Danger Signs That Your Roof Is Failing

By Juan Reyes

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

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Jason T. Dickerson Successful Businessman. Community Leader. Conservative for Senate.

COVER STORY

Blazing His Own Trail You probably don’t know his name, you wouldn’t recognize his face, you may never have heard of his company, but you have DEFINITELY seen his nationally recognized, award-winning, military-themed tractor trailers. Depicting iconic images such as Rosie the Riveter, Uncle Sam, Pearl Harbor, and the Normandy American Cemetery in France (just to name a few), the man behind the success and vision of Quest Trucking is Jason T. Dickerson. “For me, the trailers are a chance to pay my respects to the many men and women who have worn the uniform and who have answered the call of duty to defend the United States in times of need. Being the son and grandson of combat veterans, I know the sacrifices these soldiers make — both in war and in civilian life,” says Dickerson. Born in Canton and raised on a farm in the small community of Union Hill, Dickerson learned the lessons of hard work and a strong faith in God. At a 18

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

young age, he showed traits of a natural entrepreneur and a mind for business, having started his first company at age 15. To date, Dickerson has almost 30 years of leadership and business experience and is the cofounder and CEO of Quest Trucking, a long-haul transportation company employing more than 400 people. By thinking outside the box and knowing there was a better way in transportation, Dickerson set his sights on the future and blazed a trail that would set the bar for everyone else to reach. Not bogged down by having to follow “the way it has always been done before,” he forged ahead with groundbreaking industry ideas such as automatic transmissions, fuel mapping, aerodynamic skirts, and tire inflation systems — all of which are now considered standard equipment. “Sometimes, it’s lonely being out front by yourself, but that’s what real leaders do. We push the limits of what’s possible, and after years at the helm, I’ve grown accustomed to being out there. I thrive on it,” says Dickerson.

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Giving Back to Our Community

Stepping Up to Serve

While sitting at his grandparents’ dinner table on Sundays after church, Dickerson learned the value of giving back to the community.

Now, Dickerson is volunteering to serve our community in a different way by running for the Georgia State Senate.

“I was told to always be grateful for what I have been blessed with, but also know there is someone else that could use a blessing more than me,” Dickerson says.

“There is a group of people who are intent on destroying our country from the inside out, and I’m not just going to stand around and watch it happen. It’s time for people to stand up and defend our great nation,” Dickerson says.

Seeing his grandmother, mom, and aunt bake cakes for the families of recently deceased churchgoers, deliver meals to the sick, and volunteer at local nursing homes, Dickerson gained a firsthand understanding of what it means to help those in need.

Dickerson will fight to protect life, defend our Second Amendment gun rights, champion smaller government, demand fiscal responsibility, and make sure that our tax dollars will be spent as efficiently as possible.

With those early lessons in mind, Dickerson has spent years consistently working hard to support many local nonprofits in the areas of education, child foster care, animal welfare, elder support, first responder and veteran charities. Eventually, his family decided to officially expand their charitable efforts by forming The Jason T. Dickerson Family Foundation to not only be more open and transparent, but to also allow them to partner with other businesses, community leaders, and nonprofits. By bringing more of the community together, the Foundation has expanded the effect and elevated the awareness of some of the issues vital to our community. Some of Dickerson’s favorite efforts include serving food at senior living centers, providing materials for home projects that benefit local veterans, hauling hundreds of boxes of baby diapers to foster care centers, and delivering thousands of pounds of dog food to local animal rescue facilities.

After years of running his own businesses, Dickerson has firsthand experience in dealing with local ordinances, state laws, and federal regulations. In today’s uncertain times, he believes we need leaders with a strong voice and a business mind — not career politicians. “I am so tired of politicians who constantly ride the fence, who are more concerned with getting reelected instead of doing what’s right for the people of their district. They need to make the hard decisions on votes and either be a voice for the people they represent or just get out of the way,” Dickerson says. Once again, Dickerson is stepping up to do his part in the community and is ALL IN to do what he believes is right. Whether he serves two years, 10 years, or anywhere in between, you can be assured of one thing — he blazed his own trail 30 years ago in the trucking industry, and now he’s about to blaze his own trail in politics.

Dickerson also understands the importance of a quality education and the need for the next generation to strive to be better than the last. In 2019, he decided that his family’s Foundation would begin providing scholarships to local high school students who planned to pursue a degree in one of the much-needed workforce areas of nursing, agriculture, veterinary medicine, or theology. The Foundation anticipates awarding nearly $100,000 in scholarships from 2020 through 2022.

www.DickersonForGeorgia.com Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

FamilyLife Publications.com

Public Safety

Do I Remember? By Chief Tim Prather

September 11, 2001, I woke up, got dressed, said goodbye to my family, and reported for duty — a duty in which even on a regular day offers no guarantee I would return home that night. All public safety employees leave home each day knowing the risks. Nothing was out of the ordinary when I arrived at the fire station to begin preparations for my 24-hour shift. My crew and I quickly finished up our morning breakfast and began checking our trucks. We were in the truck bay when the phone rang. My sergeant hung up the phone and told me that Station 1 just called and said New York has a high-rise structure fire taking place, and it’s live on television. Since we had just finished up our truck checks, we went inside and turned on the television to see one of the Twin Towers on fire near its top, with thick black smoke billowing from the floors. For a short while, we discussed the fire and wondered about the tactics that the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) was using to get up to the fire. It was something that none of us had previously battled, or would probably ever have to battle. While we were watching the live footage, we saw an aircraft strike the second tower. I remember shaking my head in disbelief and asking, “Did y’all see that? Was that a plane that just hit the other tower?” As the minutes and hours progressed, I remember feeling nauseous listening to the beginning of talk of “terrorism.” I could not imagine terrorism of that magnitude on American soil. Then, reports began coming in about the other attempts to terrorize our nation using hijacked airplanes. For the rest of our 24-hour shift, there was a feeling of uncertainty. We received orders to lock down our fire station, which created a sense of fear in what was normally our safe haven — a place firefighters didn’t leave except for emergencies or to go home at the end of their shifts. During this time, there was a concern that public safety organizations might be attacked. Twenty years later, what happened on September 11, 2001, remains a vivid memory that I will have for the rest of my life. We were left with a feeling of helplessness. A coordinated attack was carried out on the grounds of our great nation, and no one saw it coming, which created a fear that can only be compared to what Americans felt after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. That day changed everyone’s lives. It was a day that 343 of my brothers and sisters in public safety did not return home to their families. A day when people filled our nation’s churches to pray for our country and for those who lost their lives. A day that whenever I’m asked, “Do you remember,” I always answer, “Yes ma’am/sir, I remember well — and will never forget!”

Tim Prather is the fire chief for Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, 150 Chattin Drive, Canton. 678-493-4000. CherokeeGa.com

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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Surprise! Windows 11 Coming Soon By Harrison Jones

[StrategicLife] Windows 10 was supposed be the last version of Microsoft Windows, but it turns out that Windows 11 is on the horizon. Those in the tech world likely have heard rumblings of this update, tentatively slated to begin its rollout later this year. However, those not inclined to keep up with the latest technology may be wondering what this update entails. So, before you take the plunge into Windows 11, here’s what you need to know.

Windows 11 Changes Since the update is still in the works, all the features aren’t known yet, but here’s what we do know. Technology’s role in our lives has changed since March 2020, and Microsoft is acutely aware of this. For many, personal space and workspace collided, which Microsoft took into consideration in the Windows 11 redesign by introducing the ability to create separate desktops for each area of the user’s life such as personal, work, school, or gaming. One of the most noticeable design changes will be the location of “Start,” which will be at the center of the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.

Microsoft Has Teased About Some Other Features of Windows 11, Including:  Partnership with Amazon to bring Android apps to Windows  Increased security  Faster system  Redesign for increased productivity Keep in mind, there will be a plethora of updates that users may not ever see or notice. Upon the rollout of the update, Windows will release any information needed to navigate the new system.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

What To Do When You’re Prompted To Update Whether you’re skeptical or excited about the Windows 11 update, you may want to think twice before making any changes to your computer. Much like any large update, opting out of the update after the initial release is recommended. Allow some time for the program to be tested by the general public and receive bug fixes before downloading it. Keep in mind, you do not have to update. Computers will run just as efficiently (perhaps more efficiently) on Windows 10, preventing disruption to workflow. If you’re a business owner, having an IT team is often crucial, but especially when a major operating system update hits the market because the team can test the new system upon its public release (and even prior to that on internal test systems). Testing enables the IT team to provide clients with an upgrade recommendation based on specific needs, preventing a kneejerk update that could have negative effects in the workplace.

Get Ready If you download Windows 11, you can switch back to Windows 10 within 10 days. Whether or not you have an IT team, make sure you have a plan in place for how to approach this update before it’s released. L

Harrison Jones is a technology specialist at Technical Resource Solutions. 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100, Woodstock. 678-928-9491. TechnicalRS.com

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[AcademicLife] Each year, the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) holds its annual T-shirt campaign, and the proceeds go directly back to the schools that sell them. In the fall, Cherokee County School District teachers and staff are invited to post photos of themselves wearing their CCEF T-shirts during their travels around the world.

The CCEF T-Shir t Campaign

Vote for Your Favorite! ie By Lisa-Mar

Historically, CCEF has awarded a gift card to the person who travels the farthest while wearing the shirt. The winner can use the funds to enhance classroom amenities. Due to the global pandemic, the contest had to be altered a bit last year, allowing submissions from home or anywhere teachers and staff members felt safe wearing their T-shirts. The response was so positive that the “At Home With CCEF” contest will be repeated this year. Creative photos of entrants with pets, family members, or while traveling won the hearts of the internet last year, and it will be fun to see our #CCSDunited family in action again. Last month, teachers and staff members submitted photos of themselves in their “Adapt, Grow, Thrive” T-shirts along with a brief write-up about how they would spend their winnings to improve classrooms. All entries are posted at CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org. Please log on, find your favorite photo, and vote for it daily. The contest runs through September 30. First place will receive a $300 gift card, second place will receive a $200 gift card, and third place will receive a $100 gift card.

Haygood

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

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

FamilyLife Publications.com

Fun Museums, Immersive, Hands-On, Educational Experiences

CANTON

WOODSTOCK

By Julie Senger

Some modern museums have totally upped their game. Instead of visitors quietly walking around to look at objects and read placards that explain what they are seeing, many of today’s exciting museums include features such as immersive activities, hands-on experiments, and 3D movies. So, if your family is planning a staycation for fall break, it’s the perfect time to check out what these nearby museums have to offer.

Tellus Science Museum 100 Tellus Drive, Cartersville 770-606-5700

In addition to its multiple galleries in which visitors can see things such as a full-size replica of the Wright Brother’s flyer, a huge Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, minerals that glow in the dark, replicas of space capsules, and a 9-foot-wide jaw of a megalodon (which is an extinct shark that was larger than a school bus!), the Tellus Science Museum offers many handson activities for children including:      



Pan for gems. Dig up fossils to take home. Play with light, rainbows, and mirrors in the greenhouse. Conduct experiments related to sound. Discover the properties of magnets and work with electricity. View the night sky through a 20-inch telescope perfect for observing the moon and planets in our solar system (only during special events and astronomy workshops). Explore the solar system in the Bentley Planetarium with its state-of-the-art projector (an additional $3.75 fee is required).

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

College Football Hall of Fame 250 Marietta Street NW, Atlanta 404-880-4800

In addition to housing the actual Hall of Fame, this museum highlights 775 schools. Fans begin their visit by choosing their team and watching that school’s helmet light up on a huge display wall. After that, guests can experience the following: • •

• • • • •

Relive exciting moments in college football history on a 52-foot touchscreen wall. Test athletic skills by attempting to kick 20-yard field goals, throwing balls like a quarterback, and trying other agility-testing obstacles. See how you fare as a sportscaster by attempting to call real-time plays. Feel fully immersed in the game by becoming a virtual reality quarterback. Sing karaoke fight songs. Try digital face painting. Find out how your vertical jump height and 40-yard dash time measure up to the greats. Add

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Close to Home Children’s Museum of Atlanta 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta 404-659-5437

“Welcome to a world of hands-on exploration & discovery that sparks imagination & inspires learning,” touts this museum’s website. At Children’s Museum of Atlanta, kids are not only allowed to touch things, but they are also wholeheartedly encouraged to “learn through the power of play” in the following interactive exhibits:

World of Coca-Cola 121 Baker Street NW, Atlanta 404-676-5151

 The World of Coca-Cola allows visitors to see the bottling process of the most “pop”ular beverage on the planet, which was invented right here in Georgia. Those touring the museum will also see exhibits such as the CocaCola Portrait Wall, the Pop Culture Gallery, Milestones of Refreshment, the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, and the Vault of the Secret Formula. Here are some more immersive activities visitors can enjoy: 

   



Sample beverages that Coca-Cola has made for countries all over the world (Eww — watch out for Beverly, which is a nonalcoholic aperitif that the Coca-Cola Company produced for its Italian market). Guess the origin of a variety of scents in the Scent Discovery Room. View In Search of the Secret Formula in the 3D theater. Create taste and flavor combinations in the Virtual Taste Maker. Capture a photo of yourself in the The Bubble-izer, which “transforms your image into an effervescent, bubbling form that is immersed in the bubble and fizz of Coca-Cola.” Test how well you protect Coca-Cola’s secret formula in three immersive, virtual environments.

In addition to the previously mentioned options, visit ExploreGeorgia.org/blog/free-museums-in-georgia for a list of Georgia museums that are free to visit. SOURCES – ChildrensMuseumAtlanta.org, CFBHall.com, TellusMuseum.org, WorldOfCoca-Cola.com

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

    

Grocery shop, milk a cow, and be a server in a cafe in the Fundamentally Food exhibit. “Visit” six continents as well as the layers of the Earth in the Gateway to the World exhibit. Peruse a magical forest, go fishing, and climb into a treehouse in the Leaping Into Learning exhibit. Paint, do crafts, build sandcastles, and try on costumes in the Let Your Creativity Flow exhibit. Perform STEM-related tasks using various equipment at multiple displays in the Step Up to Science exhibit. Explore skilled professions by using real tools to build items in the Tools for Solutions exhibit.

Also, Rube Goldberg’s The World of Hilarious Invention, a featured exhibit available September 18, 2021-January 2, 2022, includes “a collection of 3D, life-size machines and hands-on, interactive components that connect Goldberg’s iconic cartoon contraptions to the way things work in the physical world.”



COMING SOON!

On June 23, 2021, the Cherokee County Historical Society broke ground on its NEW History Center, which will be a multifunctional facility that will “meet the challenge of protecting, preserving, and sharing Cherokee County’s unique and compelling history.” For more information, visit RockBarn.org/ history-center. Savoy Automobile Museum opens in Cartersville this fall. It will contain one permanent exhibition gallery and two rotating exhibition galleries. For more information, visit SavoyMuseum.org. FamilyLife Publications.com

The Best

Hairstyle

for Your Face Shape By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] I think we’ve all done it at one point. We’ve tried to imitate a friend’s or favorite celebrity’s haircut only to be disappointed when the ‘do just doesn’t look as good on us as it does on them. What gives? It’s all about face shape. When you take time to determine your face shape and the haircuts that work best for it, you can flatter your unique features. To identify your face shape, pull your hair back from your face and look in a mirror. If your face is circular and approximately the same length and width, then you have a round face. If you have a strong, broad forehead and a wide, angular jaw, then your face is considered square. If your face is wide at the forehead and cheekbones but narrow at the jawline, then you have a heart-shaped face. Oval face types are longer, with the forehead and jaw approximately the same width.

Here are the best cuts for these four face shapes: Round Maximize your look by choosing a style that complements the natural roundness of your face. Wear your hair in long layers or gentle waves that draw attention away from your cheek area. If you want to wear bangs, avoid a blunt cut and keep your fringe long and side-swept. Avoid short bobs or a haircut that ends at the widest part of your face since those cuts will maximize instead of minimize a round face shape. Square Many women with a square-shaped face want to minimize a strong jaw. If this is the case, hair should be worn medium to long in length. Consider light layers, chunky ends, or curls to soften the jawline. Side-swept bangs can minimize a broad forehead. A-line bobs are also flattering on women with squareshaped faces.

Heart Women with heart-shaped faces often try to minimize their forehead while filling in their narrow chin area. Consider side-swept bangs to frame the face or a bobbed length to add texture and volume right at the chin. Women with heart-shaped faces can wear long hair, too, but might want to consider a cut that draws attention to their cheekbone area. Oval Women with oval faces can wear just about any cut. The only recommended caution is to avoid a lot of volume on the top of the head, which might lengthen the face too much.

Ask your stylist about cuts that will flatter your face shape and create a whole new look. L 26

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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

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Freshen Up the Fescue

By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Fall is the ideal time to reseed tall fescue lawns. Fescue is a well-adapted turf grass that thrives in sun and partial shade with the benefit of staying green 12 months out of the year. Over time, the fescue turf may thin due to foot traffic or stress from summer heat and moisture. Reseeding will improve the appearance and help prevent weeds. Timing is critical for success with fescue seeding. The soil temperatures from middle to late September are still warm for the seed to easily germinate and develop a root system before cooler winter months arrive. Air temperatures of 70-80 degrees with soil temperatures above 60 are optimum for germination rates. Cooler temperatures can result in poor germination and thin coverage. For accurate air and soil temperatures in our area, check University of Georgia’s weather network at GeorgiaWeather.net. It’s important to start with a soil test to determine lime and fertilization needs. Ideal soil pH for fescue is 6-6.5. The soil test will also provide recommended fertilizer grades and rates for application. If you want to hit the mid-to-late September window for seeding, then a soil test would need to be done early in the month.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

When purchasing your seed, look for the blue certified seed tag on the bag to ensure high quality, pure seed. Most turf-type, tall fescue seed available in the retail market contains a blend of several cultivars. These newer cultivars will provide better shade tolerance as well as a denser and finer texture than the standard “Kentucky 31.” Estimate the percentage of the lawn that needs filling in, then multiply that number by the recommended establishment rate of 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Seed-to-soil contact is critical, so it is best to mow the lawn down to 1.5 inches then core aerate. After seeding, keep the upper 1-2 inches of soil moist, not soaked. This usually means daily watering up to one-quarter inch for the first three weeks. Under good conditions, the seed will germinate in 5-10 days and be ready for its first mowing in three weeks.

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

FamilyLife Publications.com

Teacher Feature BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

Hannah Braswell As

a tween and a teen, Hannah Braswell didn’t have many mentors beyond her parents. Knowing the value that more of those positive relationships would have had in her life influenced her decision to pursue a career as a middle and high school teacher. “These years are so critical to one’s character and identity development, and kids of middle and high school age need as many positive influences and adult mentors in their lives as possible,” the Sequoyah HS teacher said. “I always try to be who I needed when I was their age.” After teaching Georgia studies to 6th graders at Dean Rusk MS for six years, where she earned her school’s Teacher of the Year honor, Braswell now is in her second year of teaching 10th grade world history at Sequoyah. She also coaches varsity basketball cheerleading and serves as facilitator for her school’s World History Professional Learning Community faculty group. Braswell said she chose to teach history because it was her favorite subject as a student. “History is fascinating to me because through learning about people of different places and time periods, I feel a deeper human connection,” she said. “From ancient civilizations to the modern era, history is simply studying how people interacted with one another, how they dealt with problems, made decisions, and created change. There is always a connection to the present that can be made, and always a valuable lesson to be learned.” While her students may be studying the past, Braswell looks to the present for tools to teach more effectively, from review game systems like Kahoot! to gallery walks to critical thinking strategies like hexagonal thinking. For the latter, students are given a series of hexagons labeled with words, people, places, or time periods, which they cut out and then arrange and paste on paper. 28

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

Students collaboratively work to determine the best placement for the hexagons and discuss how the hexagons connect to each other to make a web or mind map. “What really shakes some students is that there is no correct answer or no right way of organizing their hexagons,” she said. “Students simply have to explain their thought process and how the various terms connect; as long as they can do that, they are correct. I love that they realize that there can be more than one correct answer or more than one way of looking at things. History is all about perspective.” What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school? “It is important for kids to know that their household values learning. To show your student that you value their education, ask them about it; show interest in what they are learning at school. Place the true worth on the learning, not necessarily the grade,” Braswell said. “Try to allow your student enough independence to possibly make a mistake but be prepared to step in and help them to learn from the mistake and not make it a habit. Allow your student to have the independence to solve their own problems and learn from the choices they make; these are invaluable lessons that help them to become good decision makers as adults. Lastly, encourage your child to get involved. Students who belong to a club, sport, or some extracurricular feel more connected at school and have a more enjoyable experience!”

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

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Operation Roof [InGoodFaith] Since local nonprofit the Homeless Coalition Cherokee County launched a project called Operation Roof this past February, more than 43 individuals have been provided short-term housing when they had nowhere else to turn. Children made up over 25% of those for whom housing was provided, furthering the evidence that the average age of those experiencing homelessness within our community is around nine years old. The need is great. Heartbreaking is one way of describing the circumstances of individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. The Homeless Coalition recently helped an expectant mother who had been living in

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

By Pastor Andy Rogers her vehicle for quite a while. This woman is a hard worker, but the pandemic led to underemployment. Having secured housing for her older children, she was left to seek shelter in her car. With tears in her eyes she shared, “I felt my baby kick for the first time while asleep in the back of my van.” What is often a joyous experience was overshadowed with circumstances that left this woman underemployed, isolated, and fearful. Through the Homeless Coalition, she not only received the safety and security of a roof over her head, but she also received prayer, encouragement, and a means to regain momentum toward stable housing. She is now enrolled in the rapid rehousing process. This young woman received more than rest; she received the love of God through the servants and generosity of those who are a part of the

Homeless Coalition. This is just one of many testimonies arising through this ministry. You can help in one of three ways: pray, give, and serve. Pray for those facing extenuating circumstances. Give through a local participating church. Each participating church has made a faith pledge to support Operation Roof in addition to investing in the development of a long-term holistic model aimed at recovery and restorative efforts. You might also consider serving as a GAP (Guest Accountability Partner). For more information about Homeless Coalition, Operation Roof, or for a list of participating churches, contact Marianne Butler at Marianne@ homelesscoalitioncherokee.org or visit HomelessCoalitionCherokee.org. L

Andy Rogers is lead pastor at The Way | Woodstock United Methodist Church, 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-516-0371. TheWayWoodstock.com

FamilyLife Publications.com

By Lori Karnes

The Service League of Cherokee County is excited to bring its Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival back to Etowah River Park in Canton, on September 25-26. Riverfest started in 1985 as a small arts and crafts show and has grown into the Service League’s largest fundraising event. The festival is a historic cornerstone north Georgia fall weekend activity for families. Now in its 37th year, Riverfest has earned a notable reputation for its family-oriented approach and warm relationship with its vendors and patrons alike. Since the 36th annual Riverfest was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Service League is thrilled to welcome traditional attendees as well as newcomers. After spending more time at home in 2020, people are looking to update their living space, and Riverfest vendors are prepared to delight patrons with unique finds like art, design, decor, clothing, and specialty items you will not find in stores. Riverfest typically hosts 150+ juried arts and crafts vendors, 10-15 food trucks, an entertainment stage full of local talent, and a children’s area with games, prizes, and jump houses. The arts and crafts vendors include handmade woodwork, paintings, soaps, jewelry, and children’s toys. As the oldest charitable organization in Cherokee County, the Service League exists for one purpose: to help local children in need. Money raised during Riverfest is used to provide children with dayto-day necessities such as food, clothing, dental care, eyeglasses, medical care, rental and utility assistance, and college scholarships. The Service League also provides Christmas gifts for children who live in the Cherokee County School District.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

During 2020, the Service League was not able to hold three of its fundraisers, but charitable work continued, and many children and families were helped when they needed it most. Two homeless families were given housing on Thanksgiving Day; two high school students received their first beds; power was restored to many homes where children had no heat this past winter; dozens of children received eye exams and eyeglasses; and several students with severe tooth pain were treated by a dentist. These are just some of the many children who were helped using the funds that were raised by the Service League. The Service League of Cherokee County is comprised of 100 women who commit to a minimum of 50 hours of annual service for 10 years. The application process begins in early January each year. Riverfest hours are from 10:00am-6:00pm on Saturday and 10:00am-5:00pm on Sunday. The entry fee is a $5 donation for adults and children ages 11 and older; children 10 and younger are free. For more information about Riverfest or the Service League of Cherokee County, please visit ServiceLeague.net.

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Dental Insurance Is It Worth Having? By Steven Anderson, D.M.D.

[HealthyLife] The employees at your dentist office understand how frustrating dental insurance can be because they often play “messenger” between patients and insurance companies. The complexities of a routine dental policy can be overwhelming. Here’s a short guide that may help you decide if enrolling/ re-enrolling in a plan is worth it:

Dental Insurance Company Contracts The insurance company sells you/your employer financial reimbursements for certain dental procedures. This financial agreement is between you and the insurance company. You pay a monthly premium (often deducted from your paycheck), and the insurance company pays your dentist a predetermined amount for specific dental procedures. In other words, your premium purchases a dental policy that your employer offers. Each contract has distinct benefit percentages for different procedures. Just because your policy has a “100% benefit” for a procedure does not mean that it will be “free.” It just means that the insurance company will pay its full predetermined amount, which is often less than your dentist’s actual fee for a specific procedure. In fact, benefit percentages are applied to the insurance company’s predetermined benefit amount for each specific procedure, which is not based on your dentist’s actual fees. The insurance term “usual and customary rate” (UCR) is largely a misnomer and is not even consistent within an insurance company’s own policy offerings or within a geographic region. Each dental insurance company has its own UCR list, which it uses to control how much it must pay a dentist on your behalf. This is how insurance companies control the financial risk of the contract.

are significantly lower than medical insurance premiums. In fact, dental insurance companies cap possible risks by imposing maximum annual payouts (usually $500-$1,500 per customer). Higher premiums usually equate to larger payouts.

Five Ways To Maximize Your Dental Insurance 1. D etermine how much you are paying each year for dental insurance by asking your employer what your monthly premium is. Multiply this number by 12 and write down the total. 2. Determine what deductibles you must pay (usually $50-$100) when you initiate certain procedures. 3. Estimate the number of times you visit the dentist each year. Are you maximizing your necessary cleanings and routine preventative care appointments? 4. Ask your dentist how much the insurance company paid on your behalf in the past year. Dentists usually keep track of this information, which will assist you in your comparison efforts. 5. Ask your dentist how much he/she anticipates the insurance company will pay for any necessary treatment that has been prescribed for you. With this information, you can make an informed decision. You may be surprised to learn that it’s financially better to pay yourself a comparable dental premium in a private savings account or use an employer sponsored Health Savings Account instead of paying for dental insurance. Call your dental office to understand exactly what your insurance benefits and limitations may be. After all, great dentistry is all about you. L

You Get What You Pay For This adage is true in dentistry, and it applies toward providing quality care vs. costs and reimbursements associated with individual dental insurance policies. Dental insurance differs from medical insurance because catastrophic events are nonexistent in dentistry. Dental insurance companies are aware that there are no huge risks for unanticipated large claims, which is why dental insurance premiums 32

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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

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Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

FamilyLife Publications.com

Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations

Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop & Boutique

102 Fowler Street Woodstock 470-825-0262 Gift Shop

Perimeter Orthopaedics

Ignite Dance Company

Pelican’s Snoballs

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC

Team Rehabilitation Woodstock

7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant

281 Heritage Walk Woodstock 404-458-8859 Medical Professionals

2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Building 1200, Suite 120 Woodstock 678-250-9355 Financial and Estate Planning Attorneys 34

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

12035 Highway 92, Suite 200 Woodstock 678-779-6833 Dance Company

6236 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite D8 Woodstock 770-800-6770 Health Care

8099 Main Street Woodstock 678-540-6441 Sweet Treats

5947 Holly Springs Parkway Holly Springs 678-217-7770 Restaurant

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Book Review BY JOHN RODGERS

Lab Girl W

ith September comes the very first day of fall, a welcome change for plant lovers who have been anticipating the leaves changing color on the trees. Readers will also recognize September as Library Card Sign-Up Month, an annual celebration of the positive impact public libraries have on their communities (and an excuse for anyone without a library card to drop by the library and discover the fun they’ve been missing). Fans of plants and books owe it to themselves to break in that shiny new library card to check out Lab Girl, a memoir by Hope Jahren, which is available from Sequoyah Regional Library System in print, eBook, and audiobook versions. Like Jahren herself, Lab Girl sets out to accomplish a multitude of things. The autobiographical chapters covering her childhood, education, and different jobs within the field of science (including constant struggles to secure funding for research) are interspersed with sections that diverge from the narrative in favor of botanical observations, anecdotes, and gardening advice. While readers may prefer one of these elements over the other, few will deny that this style of writing provides a refreshingly candid look at its author as a scientist, as a mother, and as a person. This book should be appropriate for most readers ages 14 or older, but be advised that one section dedicated to a detailed description of childbirth may make some people uncomfortable. Those who have read Lab Girl (or are simply looking to learn more about the book) are welcome to attend the R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s Canton Eclectics Book Club meeting on September 13 at 6:00pm to share their thoughts with other readers and Lisa Huskey, the branch manager at R.T. Jones. The Canton Eclectics Book Club meets monthly inside the library’s community room. To register for this and other free library programs, visit the event calendar at CalendarWiz.com/sequoyahreglib.

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. 770-479-3090, x320. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

FamilyLife Publications.com

Advertiser Index Anderson Dental

C & T Auto Service

Chattahoochee Tech

Children’s Haven

Dawn Sams, Realtor

Dickerson for Georgia

Cover, 18-19

Etowah Film Festival

GarageExperts

Inside Front

HFVA.org 17 Jyl Craven Hair Design

Landscape Matters

Lingerfelt and Associates

Mr. Handyman of Canton and Woodstock

Next Step Ministries

Northside Hospital Cherokee

Back Cover

Pete’s Plumbing

Inside Front

Polished Peach Car Wash

Pro Roofing & Siding

Riverfest 30-31 Rock the Stock

ServiceWise Electric

Spencer Investigations Inc.

Summit Financial Solutions

Inside Back

Technical Resource Solutions

Inside Back

Vincent Financial Group

Woodstock Arts

Woodstock Business Club

Woodstock Summer Concert Series

Online ads link to advertisers’ websites.

Woodstock Family Life

| September 2021

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