2 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business! familylifepublicationsFamily Life Publications @FamilyLifeMagsFollow Us >>> [16-17] 04 ......................... Perspective 06 Calendar 11 ....................... Book Review 12 Community Life 18 ................ Mayor’s Message 22 .................. Senator Speaks 26 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 31 .................. Ribbon Cuttings 16-17 On the Cover Hartley Health & Wellness28 Teacher Feature Emily30Mickel Artist Profile Rich “The Duke” Ward 24-25 Get Inspired DIY Pet Costumes [24-25] October 2022Contents [30] [28] PhotocourtesyofAdrienneBeacco VOLUME 10 | ISSUE 3
FamilyLife Publications.com 3Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Julie Senger
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.
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David@FamilyLifePublications.com
To me, fall is a time to relax and recover from the busier days of spring and summer. It is a time for renewal, not like the aesthetic external rebirth of spring, but more of an internal reflection or evaluation of who we are at our rooted core.
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.
John Albers, Steven Anderson, Kelley Archer, Michael Caldwell, Cherokee Office of Economic Development, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, Tucker Jones, Tim Morris, Jeremy Morton, Jessica Oravec, Ellen Samsell Salas, Anna Teal
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Changes in our lives build our character. All the reactions we have, along with the emotions that change evokes, build upon our soul. Trials and tribulations may seem difficult, and we may often feel overwhelmed. But remember, warriors find strength in their tears. The truth is that those difficult times are forging us like the refiner’s fire, and we often become stronger as they pass.
4 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com
Hold fast to the knowledge that when brighter days arrive, you will be better equipped to handle whatever befalls you. Each day brings us closer to becoming the person we’re intended to be. Whatever season you find yourself in, the season is yours. Change is in the air. Embrace it. Your true colors are about to glow.
Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER
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 Subscriptionspublisher.
Publisher’s Perspective
Vicky@FamilyLifePublications.com
Refiner’s Fire
Jack Tuszynski
Cyndi Braun ART
I’ve often thought about the annual cycle of the trees and the many metaphors that may relate to the natural rhythms in our lives, how their branches, once lush with emerald leaves, will turn to hues of amber, red, and gold, then shed their bounty onto the forest floor, as they return to the soil. Like the roots of the tree, is our character not also insulated and fed by the stripping down of some seasons?
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 770-213-7095
Stephanie Bolton
David Wright
Vicky Tuszynski
Also available online at FamilyLifePublications.com
© 2022 All rights reserved.
Crisp fall mornings have made their way back into our lives, and the time has come for us to settle like the tree sap and slow down a little. The forests will soon be covered in the magnificent hues of our southern autumn, and the time to frolic in the leaves and enjoy fall festivals has arrived.
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
Learn all about the sport of pickleball in this hour-long class. Pickleball can be played by anyone, regardless of age or sports background. It’s like ping-pong with a larger paddle and a wiffleball on a small tennis court. A $5 registration fee is required. This class is limited to 16 participants. 6:30pm, Dupree Park Pickleball Courts, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
8 Coffee With Other Veterans Hosted by the Cherokee Veterans Community, enjoy hot coffee, donuts, and conversation with fellow veterans. The event is FREE, but registration is required by visiting com/registrations/events/1373252.FBCWoodstock.churchcenter.9:00-
11:00am, First Baptist Church Woodstock, Building A (Chapel Room, A250, on second floor), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
Scarecrow Invasion — Throughout October, enjoy the festive scarecrows lining the streets of downtown Woodstock. Then, vote for your favorite scarecrow at the Visitors Center (8588 Main Street) for $1 per vote. The winner earns bragging rights and an awesome trophy. Proceeds are donated to INSeason, the design committee that creates and implements design initiatives for the downtown Woodstock community. VisitWoodstockGa.com/scarecrow
Each Saturday through 12/31, enjoy this hometown farmers market, featuring occasional chef demos from local restaurants. 8:30am-12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market
1-23 Paper Cuts Art Exhibit
Unwind Wednesdays — No need to cook dinner on the first Wednesday of each month through November! Enjoy a variety of food trucks, craft vendors, live music, and an amazing playground. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E, Canton. PlayCherokee.org
Tailgate With a Firefighter — Presented by Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services and Safe Kids Cherokee County, this event features face painting, games, fire trucks, dress like a firefighter contest, food in a souvenir fire helmet, and even a VIP section! $1 tickets for games. All proceeds help fund fire safety education. 11:00am5:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com
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Trailstory: A Tale of Two Beasts — For the month October, 15 signs will be placed along the Towne Lake Pass Trail with pages of the book A Tale of Two Beasts, a national bestseller by Fiona Roberton, on one side of the sign and interactive/QR code questions about the book on the other side of the sign. Children and their families can enjoy the book and the trail at their own pace, anytime, as many times as they like. 7:00am7:00pm, Rubes Creek Trail, 232 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
ONGOING
6 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business! Calendar
OCTOBER
8
8
Volunteer Trail Clean Up and Maintenance — It’s time to tidy up our county’s beloved parks! All ages are welcome, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please preregister to volunteer by October 6 so that enough tools can be provided. 9:00am-12:00pm, Location TBD (determined based on park needs at time of event). PlayCherokee.org
8
For this collection, artists have taken the humble medium of paper and transformed it in unexpected and surprising ways, using a wide variety of techniques and processes. Gallery hours, Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. WoodstockArts.org
8 Trunk or Treat to enjoy fun and fellowship. 5:30-7:30pm, Timothy Lutheran Church, 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. TimothyLutheran.360Unite.com770-928-2812.
Woodstock Fire & Rescue Open House — Enjoy live extrication demos, K-9 demos, firefighter drills, fire truck displays, station tours, a Kids’ hose line experience, a bounce house, and FREE lunch. Parking available at Allen Temple AME Church. 10:00am-2:00pm, Woodstock Fire Station 14/Headquarters, 225 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-926-2302. WoodstockGa.gov/fire
Lantern Series Presents Gina Chavez Chavez is a multi-ethnic, Texas native, internationally-acclaimed Latinx pop artist who is redefining Latin music. Tickets are $17-$22 (individual) or $156-$260 (table). 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
5 & 19 PickleballDiscovering
Ladies’ Cancer Support Group — On the third Monday of each month, no matter the type of cancer or where you are in your journey (disease-free survivor or newly diagnosed), this group’s goal is to offer a supportive environment and a positive outlook. Membership is kept confidential. RSVP to ensure adequate space. 6:30pm, 1062 Longwood Drive (Eagle Watch subdivision in Towne Lake), Woodstock. Coco092011@comcast.net
[continued on page 8]
21 Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (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
18 Domestic Violence Candlelight
Each Thursday morning, come together with fellow business owners, professionals, and entrepreneurs to make positive change in business and the community. 8:30am, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. WoodstockBusinessClub.com404-793-3312.
FamilyLife Publications.com 7Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group
Detachment
Senior Center After Hours Murder Mystery — Try to solve a spooky murder mystery! Snacks and drinks provided. $5 per person for members. 4:00-6:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Facebook.com/woodstocksenior678-445-6518.
Marine Corps League 1311
This after-hours networking event brings together members of the WDSTK community and other professionals from the Woodstock area. 5:30-7:30pm, Three Brothers Painting, 314 Creekstone Ridge, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
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YPOW AM — Join other young professionals every Thursday morning for coffee and networking, featuring an informal chat with a local leader. This is a FREE event, but please register since space is limited. 7:00-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
Meeting — On the third Saturday of each month, the League meets to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow Marines while discussing issues such as rendering assistance to active and veteran Marines and observing Marine Corps historical events and anniversaries. Membership is open to honorably discharged Marines and Fleet Marine Force Navy Corpsmen and chaplains. 9:30am, Semper Fi Bar & Grille, 9770 Main Street, Woodstock. 561-213-5699. Harry123130@gmail.com
The Rocky Horror Picture Show — With a thrilling concept by directors Topher Payne and Charlie James Cote, brand new arrangements, and a live band, this production of Rocky Horror is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Recommended for ages 16+. Please visit the website for specific showtimes. Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
20
October Is
Morning INfluence — On the last Friday of each month, this networking event includes a brief presentation that focuses on important issues or services that affect the Woodstock community. The event is free, but registration is required due to limited space. 8:00-9:00am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
Local artists from north Georgia display and sell works of art including paintings, mixed media, photography, handcrafted jewelry, and eccentric gifts. 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday and 11:00am-5:00pm Sunday, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
AMPED in the Park With Burn Boot Camp — This FREE monthly fitness series is presented by Woodstock Parks & Recreation and a monthly community partner. 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. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
Woodstock Business Club Meeting
On the second Thursday of each month, gather with other caregivers from the greater Woodstock community. 11:00am-1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.
14-30
to attend. 10:00am, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Linda@lokey.net
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
Black Cat Awareness • Breast Cancer Awareness • Computer Learning • Down Syndrome Awareness Dysautonomia Awareness • Dyslexia Awareness • Emotional Intelligence • Family History • Mental Health National ADHD Awareness • National Cyber Security Awareness National Domestic Violence Awareness National Fair Trade • National Fire Prevention • National Pizza • and SUDEP Action Month
Vigil — The Cherokee Family Violence Center will host this event to honor domestic violence survivors as well as those who lost their lives to this horrible crime. 6:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-479-1804. CFVC.org
13 mINgle
15 & 16 Art on the Green Outdoor Market
story and photos with Spider Gwen. 11:00am, The Park at City Center gazebo, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 WoodstockParksAndRec.comx1955.
Show off your best monster moves!
Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
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October 8, 11:00am, Woodstock
TODDLER DANCE PARTY
4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491
Come learn all about pumpkins: growing, decorating, and recipes.
In this Libby workshop, attendees will receive hands-on help with setting up an account and navigating the app. Libby is a platform that provides readers with e-books and audiobooks.
BOO! BASH
Enjoy live music, a 5K, and local makers. Specific event times and additional information on website. Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm 678-345-8080.Woodstock.Street, ReformationBrewery.com
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Calendar 8 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
ALL ABOUT PUMPKINS
October 13, 11:00am, Rose Creek
FALL FUN FEST
With games, treats, and fun spooky sights, this event is sure to be a fantastic time! All ages are welcome.
from
ROSE CREEK
This fall festival features a DJ, craft vendors, food, hayrides, axe throwing, archery, bounce houses (pay-to-play), and a costume contest. Wear your costume to trick-or-treat with on-site vendors. 11:00am-5:00pm (costume contest at noon), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
This award-winning car show and party benefits the Cystic featuresFoundationFibrosisand100+unique cars, tasty
22 Cadence Fair
MONSTER MASH
22 13th Annual Cars & ‘Q for the Cause
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This band combines elements of rock, jam band, country, blues, jazz, folk, and bluegrass music. Tickets are $17-$22 (individual) or $156-$260 (table). 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
Walk To End Alzheimer’s — Sign up to walk or visit the website to make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association. 9:00am-12:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 706-4086669. Act.Alz.org
Let certified yoga instructor Jigna Patel guide you to a state of total relaxation in this free hour-long yoga session that’s perfect for beginners. Please bring your own mat. This is for ages 17+.
Hiking Scavenger Hunt: Halloween — Get your costumes and flashlights ready to take on this Halloween-themed scavenger hunt. All ages welcome, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. $10 per person. 6:30pm, Lewis Park, 4466 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
7 LIBRARY EVENTS
22 Woodstock Lions Club Sip & Paint
SequoyahRegionalLibrary.orgHICKORYFLAT
October 31, 4:00pm, Woodstock
Fall Festival Senior Center
22 The Great Pumpkin Fest
YOGA AT THE LIBRARY
29 Lantern Series Presents Mountain Heart
21
BBQ, craft beer and wine, a silent auction, live music, and more. Tickets range from $20 to $40. Children under 8 are free. 3:00-6:00pm, Choate Construction Company, 8200 Roberts Drive, Atlanta. CarsNQ.com
October 18, 11:00am, Hickory Flat
7735 Main Street, 770-926-5859Woodstock
Jazz Night — Sit under the stars, sway to live jazz music, and unwind with a glass of wine in hand. A rotating ensemble plays on the back porch. FREE! 6:00-9:00pm, the Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
Bring the whole family to enjoy a frighteningly fun night full of Halloween-themed games, crafts, snacks, and candy. Make sure to wear your best costume! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Enjoy an afternoon of sipping, painting, and socializing, featuring celebrated local artist Scott McIntyre. $40 donation includes painting supplies and a glass of wine. This event is for ages 21+. All proceeds benefit the Woodstock Lions Club Foundation. 1:00pm, 3:30pm, and 6:00pm, The Arbor at BridgeMill, 700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton. My.CheddarUp.com/c/sip-and-paint
29 Garland Mountain Day Hike
GET TO KNOW E-BOOKS WITH LIBBY
Luncheon — Celebrate Halloween with food, carnival fun, prizes, costumes, and music. $10 per person for members. 12:002:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Facebook.com/woodstocksenior678-445-6518.
WOODSTOCK
Go for a beautiful morning hike to see the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills. Difficulty level for this hike is moderate; distance is approximately a 4-mile loop. All ages welcome, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. $10 per person. 10:00am, Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails, 1411 Garland Mountain Way, Waleska. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
October 14, 11:00am, Rose Creek
October 26, 5:00pm, Hickory Flat
registration
FamilyLife Publications.com 9
2nd Annual Limitless Golf Tournament — Proceeds support Limitless Disability Services. Event fee is $150 per golfer on a team of four. 9:00am check in and 10:30am shotgun start, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. 317-753-0701. BirdEase.com/LimitlessDisabilityServices
14 & 15 A Gathering of Friends Charity Golf Tournament & Silent Auction These
auction
golf
6
NOVEMBER
Tee Off ‘Fore’ VAC 7th Annual Charity Golf Classic Stand Up for Seniors Volunteer Aging Council presents this benefit to raise funds for Cherokee County seniors and senior veterans’ unmet needs. Registration is $500/team of 4 or $125/ individual. 8:30am registration and 10:00am tee off, The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm, 3000 Bradshaw Club Drive, Woodstock. VAC-Cherokee.org
CCEF Annual Golf Tournament and Tennis & Pickleball Classic — All proceeds benefit Cherokee County School District to ensure excellence in education. 8:00am check in and 10:00am shotgun start (golf); 8:00am check in and 9:00am matches begin (tennis and pickleball), BridgeMill Athletic Club, 1190 Bridge Mill Avenue, Canton. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org fundraising 10/14 is 6:00-8:00pm at the Tavern at Towne Lake. 10/15 tournament is at 9:00am at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club, 1003 Towne Lake Hills East, Woodstock. of 9:30am of Annual Glowball benefit Cherokee County Never Goshen Valley, Ferst Single golfer is $125, and a foursome is $400. 5:00-11:00pm, Towne Lake Hills Golf Club, 1003 Towne Lake Hills East, Woodstock. TowneLakeRotary.org
7th Annual Woodstock Public Safety Foundation Charity Golf Tournament — Proceeds from this year’s event support WPSF’s community outreach, emergency aid, equipment training and support, and Shop With a Hero programs. 7:30am registration, 9:00am shotgun start, BridgeMill Athletic Club, 1190 Bridge Mill Avenue, Canton. Wdstk.ga/golf
including
Alone,
10
events benefit the American Cancer Society and Loving Arms Cancer Outreach.
Atlanta Urgent Care. $85 per person. 8:30am registration and
Golf Tournament Proceeds
Readers, and more.
7
Lake 5
770-843-9979. Facebook.com/gatheringoffriendsga 24 3rd Annual Cherokee Golfing for Children’s This tournament benefits the local Children’s Healthcare
Serving Woodstock, Towne
shotgun start, Fairways
Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. Give.CHOA.org/cherokee-golf 4 7th
charities including
Tucker Jones is a marketing specialist at Technical Resource Solutions. 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100, Woodstock. 678-928-9491. TechnicalRS.com
You’ll see this used when signing into online services such as Office 365, as well as your online banking account, social media, or favorite online shopping site. Since many online accounts store your personal information, once one of your accounts is compromised, criminals can easily steal more of your information using the compromised account as a vector for accessing other previously secure accounts.
When you are prompted to sign into an account, you typically enter a username and password. With multi-factor enabled, the system then prompts you to verify your sign in with an additional authentication method. This is where MFA comes in. You might be prompted to confirm the sign in from your smartphone, from a code in your email, or with a PIN sent to an app on your smartphone.
When authenticating your login, there are a couple different ways to ensure you are who you say you are, some of which are easy to incorporate into your routine. These methods use different means to authenticate you, including direct communication (via email, phone call, or text), specialized apps, or biometric factors like Apple’s Touch ID or Face ID.
AuthenticatorSmartphone
One of the easiest ways to authenticate your daily logins is through an app on your smartphone, such as Microsoft Authenticator, Authy, or Google Authenticator. These apps enable you to link your sign-ins and produce revolving, time-based, personal identification numbers to be used at log in to ensure it’s really you signing in. This form of MFA is commonly used and is a good way to ensure security for your logins, accounts, and personal information.
By Tucker Jones
Going the extra mile to keep your information secure may not be as complicated as you’d expect. One of the easiest and most common ways to make your online accounts more secure is to enable multifactor authentication (MFA). Sometimes called “two-factor” authentication, “two-step” verification, or TOTP (time-based one-time password), this process ensures that when an online service detects a login from you that it really is you logging in.
Concerning MFA Requests
How Does MFA Work?
[StrategicLife]
If you are seeing requests for MFA in your inbox or smartphone and you are not trying to log in, you should act immediately. First, be sure not to accept any of the fraudulent requests, and then lock down your account and change your password. L
10 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
Once you have verified that it is really you trying to sign in, your account will pull up as normal. You may be prompted to use authentication each time, or only if there has been a period of inactivity since the last sign in.
Sometimes, you might get a notification for an account sign in when you are away from your computer or not attempting to sign in at all.
Ways To Use MFA
What Is
Authentication?Multifactor
Millions of Americans suffer from bipolar disorder, yet it’s something we rarely discuss. In fact, Tamu Lewis, author of Surviving the Mental Health Tank, talks about how little most Americans understand about what it is like to suffer from this disorder and to be a family member of someone suffering from it.
SURVIVING THE Mental Health TANK
Surviving the Mental Health Tank seeks to destigmatize bipolar disorder and provide a path forward for families as well as those suffering from mental health challenges. Through personal stories and her own research, Lewis helps families learn how to thrive and cultivate emotional well-being, even when things around them are falling apart.
Jessica Oravec lives in Cherokee County and is an avid reader and a children’s minister. She holds a B.B.A. from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology.
BY JESSICA ORAVEC
Book Review FamilyLife Publications.com 11Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
As Lewis says in Surviving the Mental Health Tank, bipolar disorder is so stigmatized that people who are diagnosed with it often feel that they must hide their diagnosis from their family and friends. Her brother, Lee Thompson Young, was a brilliant young man with a bright future in Hollywood. But he suffered from this disorder, and he hid his suffering from his coworkers and friends. He died by suicide during a manic episode.
Lewis shares her love for her brother and her daughter while also giving the reader a glimpse into the mind of someone suffering from bipolar disorder, and how it affects the whole family. Additionally, she imparts information on how family members can maintain their own well-being while still supporting their loved one. Surviving the Mental Health Tank is a must read for us all, as it can help each of us have a greater understanding and compassion for those suffering from mental health challenges.
History Cherokee (HC) honored preservation successes in Cherokee County during its annual Preservation Awards banquet. Keynote speaker Victoria Lemos of the Archive Atlanta podcast delivered a compelling talk on how important it is to use nontraditional tools for preservation advocacy.
“Rebecca has been a treasured volunteer for over a decade and has worked tirelessly to preserve Cherokee County’s history. In addition to publishing numerous history books, she has led our capital campaign efforts to build the new History Center. Under her leadership, we were able to raise over 4.3 million dollars,” said Joyner.
On June 9, Officers Bitzer, Dixon, and Gross responded to a stabbing call at a residence off Highway 92. When they arrived on scene, the suspect had been taken into custody. The officers then located two victims, both of whom had multiple critical wounds. The officers worked together, providing extensive medical care to the victims and assisting Fire and EMS personnel.
Woodstock Police Officers Recognized With Lifesaving Awards
On May 5, Woodstock PD received a call in reference to a 2-year-old child not breathing. Officer Dixon was on his way home, off duty, and heard the call. He immediately responded and found the child lying on his back, not breathing, appearing lifeless. The mother was on the phone with 911. Officer Dixon began chest compressions while the mother attempted to breathe life back into the child. Moments later, the child opened his eyes and was conscious.
“The award winners this year represent a diverse type of historic properties found throughout Cherokee County. Four properties are all community landmarks — churches, a country store, and school gym. The other two were built 30 years apart but exhibit the same craftsmanship found in many historic residential buildings such as the tongue-and-groove walls,” said HC Executive Director Stefanie Joyner.
Additionally, HC presented two individual awards to community members who have volunteered their time and resources to furthering HC’s mission of collecting, preserving, and sharing Cherokee County history. City Councilwoman and long-time community figure JoEllen Wilson received the Volunteer of the Year Award for her work on the capital campaign to help build the new Cherokee County History Center (opening in November) and for current volunteer work on HC’s development committee.
2022 Historic Preservation Award Winners
12 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business! Community
History Cherokee Announces Historic Preservation Awards
HC’s prestigious Judson W. Roberts Lifetime Service Award was presented to Rebecca Johnston.
On April 26, Officers Brown and Hinkle responded to a domestic dispute at an apartment complex off Arnold Mill Road. When the police officers arrived the alleged suspect jumped out of the bedroom window of the second-floor apartment. While falling to the ground, the individual struck a first-floor apartment window before striking the ground and sustaining life-threatening injuries. Both officers ran to the victim and began treating injuries. Officer Hinkle placed a tourniquet on the injured left leg while Officer Brown kept the victim from losing consciousness.
Lifesaving Award winners, holding their plaques (L-R) Barron Dixon, Ben Bitzer, Scott Gross, Robert Brown and Justin Hinkle
During the evening, HC honored the following historic sites with preservation awards: Goshen Baptist Church in Salacoa, The Grande Tea Room in Ball Ground, the Hickory Flat Gym in Canton, Bennett’s Store in Waleska, Conns Creek Baptist Church and School in Ball Ground, and the Grogan-Holcomb-McNeal Home in Woodstock. Conns Creek has been on HC’s sites worth saving list, showing just how far preservation work can go with the right level of awareness and advocacy.
Several Woodstock PD officers were recognized with Lifesaving Awards. During a meeting with the mayor and Woodstock City Council, Officers Ben Bitzer, Robert Brown, Barron Dixon, Scott Gross, and Justin Hinkle were honored for their emergency medical assistance and lifesaving efforts during calls in April, May, and June.
History Cherokee will continue to support historic preservation in our community through the annual Preservation Awards banquet. To learn how you can get involved, visit HistoryCherokee.org/support.
In 2022, 13 Etowah graduates completed the AP Capstone diploma: Kelsey Cleveland, Ella Daugherty, Lillian Derenthal, Jolina Dorgan, Zachary Griffin, Christopher Haswell, Lily Hovenac, Danielle LaDuca, Ivy McKinney, Alyssa Pearson, Amelia Ryan, Claire Williams, and Anna Zharikov. Four graduates received the AP Seminar and Research Certificate: Joshua Hughes, Kiersten James, Laurel O’Brien, and Reese Patterson.
FamilyLife Publications.com 13Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake Community
35 Educators Recognized as Instructional Technology Experts
School Board Meets New Student Delegates
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower congratulates the new student advisor and student delegates to the School Board (L-R) Emily Paulson, River Ridge HS; Taryn Lorelai Mareau, Sequoyah HS; Erin Bradley, Etowah HS; Student Advisor Carson Heath of Creekview HS; Lydia Lord, Woodstock HS; and Catherine Butterworth, Cherokee HS.
AP Capstone is a two-year project-based learning program designed to help students develop critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills that are crucial to academic success. The elite program, which was developed by the College Board in partnership with colleges and universities, is offered in select high schools nationwide, with Etowah graduating its first class in 2019.
Only 14,100 students nationwide earned the AP Capstone Diploma, and 9,200 earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. Instead of a single end-ofyear exam, the interdisciplinary AP Seminar and AP Research courses assess students’ knowledge mastery through group projects, presentations, and individual essays throughout the year.
Etowah HS Celebrates Latest Class of AP Capstone Graduates
Woodstock HS Senior Places in National Career Skills Competition
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Madeline Ambery earned fifth place in the U.S. Technology Student Association (TSA) national competition held this past summer in Texas. She earned the national honor in the communications technology – children’s stories category, which followed her first place Georgia TSA statewide competition win in the same category. Her entry for the competition was a STEM focused children’s book entitled, The Adventures of Hopper and the Evil Space Cat, which she wrote, illustrated, and produced.
Thirty-five teachers and staff have been named to the 202223 class of Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts (MIEE). The technology company selected only 830 educators, support staff, and school and school district leaders nationwide, considered among the best at understanding how technology can improve learning, for this elite recognition. CCSD leads the way with the most MIEE of any Georgia school district. Experts receive access to new instructional resources and an exclusive online network for sharing best practices.
A student advisor position has been included on the School Board since 1999, and for the past 11 years a student delegate from each high school has also been selected. These outstanding seniors serve for one year to give input and feedback to the Board and to the superintendent and his senior staff. The advisor role, which includes the opportunity to sit on the dais with the Board, is rotated among the district’s high schools.
In addition to being named an Expert, CCSD Instructional Technology Specialist Merry Hofmeister (for the second consecutive year) also is one of only 33 educators in the U.S. and four in Georgia to be named a Microsoft Innovative Educator Fellow. This recognition honors withsharearetechnologyamongpeersconsideredconferences.anddevelopment,professionalmentoring,throughexcellenceleadershipdemonstratedandbyMIEEcoaching,leadingpresentingatFellows,bytheirasthebestallExpertsatintegration,calledupontotheirknowledgeothereducators.
Dates To Remember
In recent months, Cherokee County citizens have expressed concern with security, vulnerabilities, accuracy of vote tabulation, and the ability of voters to verify their selections in a readable format in accordance with OCGA 21-2-300(a)(2).
County Attorney Angela Davis advised the Board of Commissioners it did not have the clear unilateral authority to change the way elections are handled nor how ballots are cast at the local level, but it could request assistance from state officials by way of resolution.
The Board of Commissioners has unanimously approved a resolution, calling upon the Georgia General Assembly, Secretary of State, and State Elections Board to remove QR codes from ballots and instead utilize a system that allows the voter to view a readable ballot before it is cast.
• October 11 is the last day for a person to register and be eligible to vote in the November 2022 General Election (O.C.G.A 21-2-224(a)).
The live fire training exercise that took place was the first of its kind in Cherokee County. Over the past two years, CCFES has been training its members on the Blue Card Command system, which standardizes local incident operations. This system helps incident commanders with communications on the fireground, so that they can make better decisions, in an organized fashion, for the safety of citizens and firefighters.
Community Commissioners Approve Resolution on Voter Ballots
“This Board is an advocate for election integrity. We generally trust the system, especially as administered in Cherokee County, but we recognize that many people do not. While we are legally bound to utilize the state-wide voting system, the Board is compelled on behalf of its citizens to respectfully urge the General Assembly, the Secretary of State, and the State Election Board to immediately pursue changes to the voting system in Georgia in order to restore faith in our system,” Cherokee County Board of Commissioners said in an official statement.
• October 28 is the last day to submit an absentee ballot application for the November 2022 General Election (O.C.G.A 21-2-381(a)(1)(a)).
The Woodstock Lions Club, Lions Club International Foundation, and Anthem Insurance Company have collaborated to benefit the Etowah HS Vegetable Garden. As part of Anthem Volunteer Days, the garden will receive a $2,000 grant from Lions Club International Foundation, and Anthem employees will volunteer to work in the garden. Anthem Volunteer Days is a program that “connects Anthem employee volunteers with Lions Clubs for the purpose of serving and improving their communities.”
The street signs honor the legacy of Justin and Amber Hicks who were tragically killed last year in their
Street Signs Unveiled in Honor of Justin and Amber Hicks
unveiled by Mark Boggs, Amber’s father, from the bucket of Truck 11. He was accompanied by FAO Tyler Davidson and Lt. David Miller, friends of the Hicks.
Cobb County home. Justin began serving as a firefighter with Cherokee County in 2015 and held the rank of Fire Apparatus Operator/Paramedic. The new street names include Justin Walk, Hicks Circle, Amber Walk, and Jacob Avenue. Additionally, the buildings on the training grounds will be numbered with significant dates from their lives. The street signs and building numbers will be used to dispatch training incidents across the complex.
The Woodstock Lions Club has worked with Ashley Rivers, Future Farmers of America advisor at Etowah HS, for more than three years, helping with labor and equipment at the school’s vegetable garden. Recently, the Club learned that the garden needed funds and labor for repairs. It seemed like a perfect project for Anthem Volunteer Days, so the Woodstock Lions Club submitted a detailed proposal for the $2,000 grant.
14 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
Due to grant approval, 15 Anthem employees and several Woodstock Lions Club volunteers will meet at the garden this month to help with labor, repairs, and planting. The garden has 18 raised beds (4 are handicapped accessible) and grows both warm and cool season crops. Students enrolled in agriculture courses at the high school help in the garden along with Woodstock Lions Club and other community volunteer groups.
Anthem Volunteer Days highlights one of the five global initiatives of the Lions Club International Foundation, addressing hunger. The Etowah High School Vegetable Garden donates all produce, approximately 250 pounds per season, to the Heritage Presbyterian Church Pantry. Every week, the Pantry serves 90 families who otherwise would not be able to afford fresh produce.
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services revealed new street signs at the Cherokee County Fire Training Complex in Holly Springs. The unveiling ceremony took place during the fire department’s first live fire training exercise for a new incident command system known as Blue Card Command.
ever, be forgotten by the members of this Theorganization.”signwas
Lions Club Collaboration Benefits Etowah HS Vegetable Garden
“We are excited to finally unveil these signs and begin dispatching training scenarios using them,” said Fire Chief Eddie Robinson. “I look forward to what the fire department has in store for the future, and I can assure you that Justin, Amber, and Jacob will never,
Relocating Established Plants
By Joshua Fuder
To reduce the size of the root ball needed for transplant, the plants should be rootpruned months prior to the move. Root-
To root-prune, mark a circle around the tree or shrub then dig a trench just outside the circle. You may need a pair of hand pruners or loppers to cleanly cut larger roots. Next, backfill the trench with soil (making sure to mark the outside of your trench) and water the area to settle the backfilled soil. When you come back to dig, make sure to start just outside the trench area, as that is where those new feeder roots will be concentrated.
surrounding soil. Backfill with native soil only, as bagged amendments can create drainage issues. Water thoroughly and add a mulch layer 2-3 inches deep to conserve moisture.
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee770-721-7830.
When relocating in the landscape, standard planting procedures will apply. Dig the new hole 50% wider than the soil ball and set the top of the root ball at the level of the
FamilyLife Publications.com 15Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
[Home Life] Gardeners are often faced with the situation of a plant that no longer works in its original spot due to sun/shade pattern changes, overcrowding, or the desire to input a more appealing plant in that location. Years of growth (and money) can be saved by relocating established trees and shrubs to more suitable spots in the landscape.
pruning is the process of severing the roots of an established plant to encourage the growth of new feeder-type roots. Plants moved in November should be root-pruned in March, while those moved in March should be root-pruned in October.
The ideal time to move plants in the landscape is in autumn (after leaves fall from deciduous plants) or in late winter (before spring growth begins). The success of the transplant will depend upon the quantity of roots that stay intact and survive the move. The roots of trees and shrubs will normally grow to at least the canopy or spread of its branches.
Shanda and Michael have a brick-and-mortar location on Sixes Road where they offer primary, acute, and specialty health care to patients of all ages. These services range from COVID-19 rapid testing to sports physicals to colonic hydrotherapy.
Bottom (Back L-R): Mario Coneway, Danielle Hodge, Danielle Wills, Bethany Davis, (Front L-R): Christopher Threatt, Alexandra Cobb
Convenient
Care Wellness&
A Passion Turned Into Purpose
Convenient Primary Care Services
Shanda and Michael Hartley Pritchett,Hartley,HollyJulia(L-R):Holsomback,Allen,ShandaKayleighSydneyGalvin
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Shanda Hartley, a family nurse practitioner since 2004 and a registered nurse since 1994, has always had two loves –wellness and geriatric health care. This focus fueled a dream to start Hartley Health & Wellness when she and her husband, Michael, first moved to Canton in 2005. Michael, a retiree from the U.S. Navy submarine force, handles the business side, while Shanda handles the clinical side.
“A major benefit to our patients is that we accept walk-ins and can turn common primary care services around quicker than other traditional medical models,” adds Michael. “We also take all major insurance, credit cards, and affordable care plans.”
16 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
Top
During the early days of Hartley Health & Wellness, the company focused on geriatric care by traveling to a few assisted living facilities to administer mobile primary care services such as X-rays, blood tests, and ultrasounds, among many other services. Their business quickly grew to 75 assisted living facilities, which meant they had to increase their staff to include six nurse practitioners and three medical doctors. Over the years, in addition to their core passion for geriatrics, the Hartleys have opened a dedicated office to house various other wellness services that are readily available to the community.
“We often see patients needing a medication refill after-hours when their doctor’s office is closed. They will come to us since we are open Monday through Friday from 8:00am-7:00pm. We can help them get their prescriptions promptly, avoiding complications, to feel better again,” explains Shanda.
veryone should have access to the tools they need to enjoy a healthy, well-lived life. However, the path to wellness might look different depending on age and other factors. Shanda and Michael Hartley, owners of Hartley Health & Wellness, are passionate about helping those in our community feel good, look good, and be well.
Another new addition to the practice may appeal to those seeking a noninvasive body shaping procedure that addresses both muscle and fat. Emsculpt Neo is FDA-cleared for reducing fat by 30% and increasing muscle by 25% on average. It effectively sculpts several body areas including the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and legs by delivering radio frequency to destroy fat, and a HIFEM procedure to stimulate muscle in the treatment area. One 30-minute session is equivalent to 12,000 crunches or sit-ups. It takes four sessions to see results. To maintain results, patients are encouraged to return for one treatment every three months.
3755 Sixes Road, Suite 203 Canton, GA 30114
For those looking for a wellness solution specifically for the colon, Hartley Health & Wellness provides colonic hydrotherapy. This gentle cleansing of the large intestines with warm water removes impacted feces, gas, and mucus. Benefits include better absorbency of nutrients, which improves energy and mood.
Another popular treatment that can help with hangovers, migraines, stress, and rehydrating after illness is IV hydration. During this treatment, fluids are administered directly into a person’s bloodstream through a small IV inserted into the arm. The fluids include a mix of vitamins, electrolytes, and antioxidants. The electrolytes include magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, sulfate, and calcium.
By Anna Teal
Community Focus
shows that 95% of treated patients have reported significant improvement in their quality of life. It works,” says Michael.
A noninvasive, FDA-approved treatment called Emsella is the latest addition to the Hartley Health & Wellness repertoire. Emsella uses electromagnetic energy to cause deep pelvic floor muscle stimulation without the need for the patient to get “Scientificundressed.research
“We served 75 communities in the metro-Atlanta area to help with COVID testing at the height of the pandemic,” explains Shanda. “We have a true passion for quality patient care in our community. We want them to be educated and have access to the proper care when they need it.” HartleyHealthAndWellness.org678-880-6698FormoreinformationaboutHartleyHealth&Wellness,visitthewebsite or stop by the Canton office.
The Hartley team’s passion for wellness extends far and wide into surrounding communities. For example, during the rise of COVID-19, they were active in administering and educating people about the vaccine in nearby churches.
One 28-minute session brings thousands of Kegel-like contractions, which helps train muscles without effort. It’s a comfortable procedure that lets patients relax during the entire treatment session. It’s helpful for women who are postchildbirth, and it can also help with vaginal dryness post-menopause. Additionally, Emsella can help treat male erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow as well as decrease lower back pain for both men and women.
Effectively Treating Incontinence
COVER STORY FamilyLife Publications.com 17Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Body Shaping Solution and Wellness
HealthHartley&Wellness
“A major benefit of Emsculpt Neo is that it simultaneously treats both muscle and fat to dramatically change the tone and appearance of the treated area. The inches our patients lose will not return,” explains Michael.
Colon Care
IV Hydration
Michael Caldwell is the mayor of the City of Woodstock. 678-523-8570. WoodstockGa.gov
Also, there are several joint transportation projects that the county has agreed to fund in Woodstock out of its portion of the collections, and the entire county will benefit from an expansion of the Cherokee County Justice Center. Cherokee has doubled in population since the facility was built nearly 30 years ago, and the needs of our justice system have increased as well.
The lion’s share of our city’s SPLOST investments is being made in transportation and public safety, which along with fiscal responsibility and a vibrant community, reflects Woodstock’s priorities. As most of these priorities are expenses that the City must make whether SPLOST is renewed or not, SPLOST functions as a significant offset for our property taxes. It is also spread across sales made to residents of our county
November’s Decision on SPLOST Renewal
Public
and visitors alike, which further lowers the tax burden on citizens of Woodstock. Were it not to be renewed, the result would likely be large property tax increases to replace the funds for these essential priorities. The decision is solely up to voters.
Mayor Michael Caldwell
As always, it is an honor to serve as your mayor. If you have any questions or thoughts about SPLOST or any other issues here in our great city, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Public
Mayor’s Message 18 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
Works (transportation and infrastructure) $30 million Parks and Recreation $9.4 million Communications and Technology $685,000 Parking and Transportation Improvements $700,000 Business, Economic Development, Land Acquisition, Infrastructure, and Facilities $1.1 million
Where do those six pennies go? Four percent goes directly to the State of Georgia’s general fund and are implemented automatically under state law. The remaining 2% was previously put in place by Cherokee County voters and must be renewed on a regular basis. Of that 2%, 1% goes toward E-SPLOST, which raises funds for capital investment in the Cherokee County School District to build schools, buy buses, and keep the District’s infrastructure up to speed with our rapidly growing county. The other 1% goes toward SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax), which is split between the county government and our cities to fund road investment, public safety, parks, and other infrastructure.
Now that you know where these funds would be invested, be sure to mark your calendars to make your voice heard on November 8 by casting your vote. The Great American Experiment relies on your participation, and this year’s election cycle is important for many reasons, the SPLOST decision being just one of them.
Safety (police and fire) $7.4 million
Cherokee is one of only four of the 159 counties in Georgia with a 6% sales tax. Every other county has a higher tax rate.
This November, Cherokee County voters face the important decision of whether to renew the SPLOST for another six years, as it’s currently set to expire in 2024. Prior to the ballot decision, county and city leaders have met extensively to negotiate how and where the funds would be invested. The City of Woodstock has published its next SPLOST cycle priorities and, if voters renew the measure, we anticipate the City would receive $49.5 million over the six years, which would be invested as follows:
FamilyLife Publications.com 19Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
There are many stories in the Bible that help us see how wonderful and powerful God is. One of these is the story of Hannah found in 1 Samuel.
Hannah kept her promise. Samuel became an apprentice to a priest named Eli and was raised in the temple. In 1 Samuel 2:21, the Bible mentions that he grew up in the presence of the Lord.
• And finally, we can grow in the Lord’s presence through faith. Without faith, we cannot please the Lord. We bless his heart when we have faith in him.
• The first way we can grow in God’s presence is through humility. Pride turns the Lord away, but humility invites his presence into our lives.
[InGoodFaith] In today’s world, we grow up in the presence of things such as technology, social media, and celebrity news. We are easily influenced by what surrounds us, both good and bad. However, when we choose to grow in the presence of the Lord, he can work through us in amazing ways.
Hannah, like many women, struggled with infertility. She wanted to be a mother more than anything, and in her pain and brokenness, she cried out to God in prayer. She vowed that if God gave her a son, she would commit that child’s life back to him. The Lord heard her prayer and blessed her with a son, whom she named Samuel. What a sweet reminder that God is with us even in our darkest days.
Let’s make it our prayer and desire to grow in the presence of our heavenly Father, just like Samuel. L
We, too, can grow up in the presence of the Lord in just four simple ways:
Jeremy Morton is the lead pastor of First Baptist Church Woodstock. 770-926-4428. FBCW.org
By Pastor Jeremy Morton
• The third way is through worship. When we praise and adore his name, his spirit comes down where we worship him.
Growing in God’s Presence
• The next way is through dependence. When we humbly depend on him to express our needs, his presence is there with us.
Like the familiar process of splitting firewood, large metal fillings act like wedges in a tooth. When a wedge is placed in wood and struck with a hammer, it usually splits the wood in two. Fillings that are struck repeatedly through daily chewing act like a wedge, which often results in a fractured tooth.
20 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
[Healthy Life] Have you ever been advised by a dentist that you “really should consider crowning that tooth”? And perhaps you dismissed that idea until you bit down on a piece of holiday peanut brittle and felt a crack.
Keep in mind that not all crowns are created equal. The materials your dentist uses make a big difference. Gold crowns are unique because they are plaque and bacteria resistant. However, due to the gold color, most people opt for a tooth-colored crown, which are
made from porcelain and can have high quality gold foundations or lower quality nickel
Crownsfoundations.made of all porcelain are usually the best option for teeth that can be seen when you smile because they will not show a dark line at the edge of your gums. Porcelain also has differing characteristics. All these factors play a role in selection as well as the final cost of a crown.
Whenever a tooth undergoes treatment to remove decay or disease, internal supporting tooth structure is removed. “Filling” material replaces the removed area of the tooth. When a large portion of the tooth is filled, the entire tooth becomes unstable and, if not treated with a crown, the tooth can easily fracture and be lost.
If a fractured tooth cannot be restored, it may have to be removed. Loss of a tooth can have serious immediate and long-term ramifications to your oral health. Nearly every tooth in your mouth has an important function, and current medical knowledge confirms and continues to reveal the primary role oral health plays in your overall well-being.
WorthWeightTheirin Gold
Dental Crowns Are
A dental crown is placed over the entire biting surface of a tooth, which then evenly distributes the direct biting force, thereby removing the “wedge effect” of the large metal filling. Think about why construction workers wear hard hats. The hat has an inner band that distributes the force of a blow evenly around the head in order to protect it — just like a crown evenly distributes biting forces in your mouth.
By Steven Anderson, DMD
A dental crown/cap restoration is one of the primary ways an unstable tooth becomes stable, protected, and restored to its chewing function. It is often the best treatment for that tooth, and a clear understanding of why should help motivate you to have the procedure done as soon as possible.
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
A crown is an excellent option to restore an otherwise unstable tooth. Given good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental checkups, a crown is truly “worth its weight in gold” and can restore years of function to your tooth. After all, quality dentistry should be all about you! L
While monumental progress has been made over the last few years to protect Georgians, much work still needs to be done.
John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of John.Albers@Senate.Ga.gov404-463-8055.Woodstock.SenatorAlbers.com. Speaks
22 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business! Senator
While Georgia may not be immune to our nationwide gang problem, we are unique in that we are taking unprecedented steps to fight gang activity. Gov. Brian Kemp, particularly, has led the charge and has pushed for many of the reforms that have diminished gang violence in Georgia in the last few years.
In 2018, Attorney General Chris Carr created the Georgia Anti-Gang Network, which has helped to cut down on the rise in gang violence. This collection of local, state, and federal stakeholders has improved intelligence sharing capabilities, strengthened crossagency collaboration, and worked to drive down gang recruitment. To date, the Network has held seven meetings, each leading to productive legislative solutions or innovative collaboration techniques.
criminal gang members
is only half of the battle. We also must ensure
we are doing everything we can to support and retain Georgia’s law enforcement officers and first responders, as they are often the first ones on the scene of gang activity. One major victory in this effort was the passage of House Bill 286 in 2021, championed in the Senate by Sen. Randy Robertson, a former member of law enforcement. HB286 prevents the defunding of local police departments and requires that the annual budgetary appropriations for them are not to decrease by more than 5% during a rolling five-year period. Protection from criminal gang organizations will not be possible without fully funded public safety departments that have the resources and equipment needed to aggressively pursue gang-related crimes.
Similarly, Sen. Burt Jones introduced legislation to establish the Back the Blue Fund to increase compensation and enhance benefits for Georgia’s law enforcement officers. While those who enter law enforcement typically do so to serve communities, not necessarily for the pay, measures like this help solve the hiring and retention crisis currently impacting law enforcement.
Georgia’s Tools To Combat Gang Activity
As chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, I will continue to work with law enforcement, first responders, prosecutors, and all other stakeholders to ensure that those who engage in criminal gang activity are brought to justice.
Many of the most impactful measures addressing criminal gang activity were vetted in the Senate Judiciary Committee under the leadership of Chairman Sen. Brian Strickland. Specifically, Sen. Strickland has worked closely with the Governor and First Lady to fight against gang-related human trafficking. As a credit to their work, the Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit issued 54 gang and human trafficking charges during an investigation in Dougherty County last summer.
By State Senator John Albers
Like many states across the country, Georgia has witnessed a disturbing uptick in gang activity — particularly in our cities. According to the Attorney General’s Office, 71,000 validated gang affiliates and over 1,500 suspected gang networks are active in our state. In 2021, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Gang Task Force investigated 446 gang-related cases across 100 counties and charged more than 170 gang members.
During the 2022 legislative session, House Bill 1134 was another tool created to combat gang activity. HB1134 established Georgia’s first statewide Gang Prosecution Unit, which will have concurrent authority with local prosecutors to tackle gang related crimes. Previously, local prosecutors reported difficulties in pursuing gang-related cases that crossed jurisdictional lines. With this new Unit in place, no criminal gang member will be safe from However,prosecution.prosecuting
[Lifestyle] Fall is finally here, which means it’s a great time to get outside and get active. Any day is a good day for adventure – even better when you can bring your furry best friend along for the ride. If you’re looking for a new place to explore, check out the following list of pet-friendly spots conveniently located nearby.
Etowah River Park Loop (600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton) - This fun 1.6-mile loop is sure to leave you and your four-legged friend with a sense of accomplishment for a walk well done. The well-marked trail includes doggy waste disposal stations for your convenience.
Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area (1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs) - Those up for a drive will love exploring this 10,000-acre open space. Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you along woodland trails, rewarded with a swim in the 48-mile winding stretch of the Chattahoochee River.
Pet Friendly Outings Around Town
FamilyLife Publications.com 23
Kelley Archer is the marketing manager for Landeavor, the developer of the Great Sky community, 100 Sun Shower Ridge, Canton. 770-704-0234. GreatSkyGa.com
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Some local restaurants and businesses welcome well-behaved, leashed pets, but be sure to check the establishment’s website or call ahead to check their Opportunitiespolicies. for pet-friendly outings are plentiful, so grab the leash, get out there, and have lots of fun this autumn! L
Woofstock Park (150 Dupree Road, Woodstock) - This park is Woodstock’s large and small breed dog park. Woofstock is home to the Towne Lake Pass and Noonday Creek Trailheads.
Canton Paw Park (135 Juniper Street, Canton) - This volunteer-managed dog park features separate areas for large and small dogs to play off-leash. Drinking water, agility equipment, and shaded seating areas are available.
By Kelley Archer
Hickory Log Creek Reservoir (Fate Conn Road at Bluffs Parkway, Canton) - New sights and smells await within these approximately 411 acres of reservoir, containing approximately 15 miles of shoreline and surrounded by a 150-foot buffer.
For extra-special costumes, it’s best to create the look yourself instead of buying one that’s prepackaged. Creating a homemade costume can be a fun, cost effective, yet slightly challenging alternative for a more unique look.
If
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To help get your creative juices flowing, here’s a list of places from which to draw inspiration, along with some photos of Family Life staff members’ pets in a few fun examples.
you’re on social media, you’ve likely seen many precious animal “influencers” with their own Instagram or TikTok accounts, followed by thousands of devoted fans. So, if you celebrate Halloween with your pet or want to keep their social media accounts fresh and exciting by dressing your furry friend in cute costumes for photoshoots and reels, read on for cute costume ideas.
Everyday People
CDIYPetostumes GetInspired
To save time and money, try to choose a costume that can be made with things you already have at home, or that is constructed from items that can be purchased inexpensively at local dollar stores, thrift markets, or secondhand consignment establishments. While pondering ideas, also consider whether your pet will wear the costume for a quick photoshoot/reel, or if your furry friend will be strutting about for an extended period for trick or treating or a Halloween pet parade.
ByJulieSengerConsider clubs, occupations, organizations, popular styles, recreational activities, or sports that require distinct uniforms or clothing items and accessories. Red Hat Society Materials used: artificial purple flower, hot glue gun, pearl bracelet, purple T-shirt, red hat Punk Rock Princess Materials used: black tutu, funky glasses, purple wig, spikey bracelet 80s Teen Materials used: colorful retro shades, MTV T-shirt, mullet wig
FamilyLife Publications.com 25Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Materials used: box, hot glue, pet harness, pipe cleaner twist tie (to attach the box/bed to the harness), small plastic doll and bed
The IndustryEntertainment
Think of iconic actors, characters, musicians, or even props and settings. Does your pet remind you of any of your favorites?
Historical Figures
Materials used: cardboard, construction paper, glue, helium balloons, pet life jacket, selfadhesive hook and loop Velcro fasteners (to attach the cardboard house to the life jacket), scissors
Materials used: black permanent marker (to create the design on the shirt), pink tutu, white golf shirt
These costumes are more conceptual, using various scenarios, phrases, or figures of speech as inspiration.
Maverick From TopGun
Uncle Sam
Materials used: blue T-shirt, construction paper, hot glue, paper towel roll, posterboard, red scarf
Materials used: brown leather bomber jacket, mirrored aviator sunglasses, white T-shirt
There have been many historical figures with ornate styles or who are associated with very specific fashionable (and not-so-fashionable) looks.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg
AceVentura:PetDetective
The Truly Unique
Materials used: collar, hot glue, scissors, wide lace. Since this pet’s fur is black, no materials were needed to create a Supreme Court robe.
The House From UP!
Monster Under the Bed
CherylMcKayPricepresenting at the Cherokee
Woodstock, was the designer of the iconic “Always Coca-Cola” logo.
Five years ago, the Cherokee By Choice initiative burst into the limelight. A half decade later, this catchy brand identity and public-private partnership has become a lifestyle, which other communities strive to emulate.
BYCHEROKEECHOICE Built to Last
You may be asking, what does Coca-Cola have to do with Cherokee? For starters, Woodstock-based brand mastermind Tom Cox, who created Cherokee’s entrepreneurial brands Fresh Start Cherokee and The Circuit
Aside from living and working in the community, these industry experts also pay it forward through sharing their expertise at events such as 1 Million Cups Cherokee, the Cherokee Film Summit, and local networking groups. These partnerships help nurture a healthy ecosystem for businesses and residents alike, making Cherokee one of the most desirable places to live in metro Atlanta. And it doesn’t stop there.
FilmSummit.
Think of your favorite brand. Let’s take CocaCola for example. Does a crisp, refreshing Coke immediately transport you to the ballpark while cheering on your favorite team? If so, that’s because Coca-Cola doesn’t just envelop your taste buds; it has earned your trust through experience. And that’s exactly what being in Cherokee By Choice is all about.
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org
Similar to Coca-Cola, Cherokee By Choice just means more. It’s not only a recognizable brand identity that evokes fond memories of times well spent in one of Cherokee’s inclusive and welcoming communities – it’s also a legacy that’s built on trust. L
ofTomCoxDesigns. 26 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
During the initial Cherokee By Choice campaign in 2018, more than 75 investors representing numerous industry sectors placed their trust in Cherokee, committing over $2.7 million in funding to solve key challenges facing local business. The results were extraordinary. These partnerships led to an astounding $437 million in capital investment, 57 business locations/ expansions, and over 2,000 new jobs.
[StrategicLife] “Who we are is a tribute to those who left us a legacy. Who we help others become will be our legacy.”
Do you see the trend emerging? The talent that wrote the touching screenplay for movies like The Ultimate Gift and the designer who created one of America’s most recognizable household logos both live in Cherokee By Choice.
Much like The Ultimate Gift, Cherokee’s greatest legacy resides in those who live, work, and play here. Whether that’s screenwriters like Cheryl who write, produce, and cast local talent in inspiring film projects or internet technology companies like Black Airplane that headline national “Best Places to Work” lists, the people who call Cherokee home are forging an inheritance that’s built to last.
By Cherokee Office of Economic Development
Woodstock-based screenwriter Cheryl McKay Price penned these words in the heartwarming American drama, The Ultimate Gift. The award-winning film follows the journey of Jason Stevens, a spoiled young beneficiary of his grandfather’s multi-billion dollar estate. But there’s one catch – Jason must pass a series of tests as outlined in his grandfather’s will to receive his full inheritance. Stevens learns, kicking and screaming, that life’s “ultimate gifts” aren’t riches, but people.
Building upon this tremendous success, Cherokee Office of Economic Development launched Cherokee By Choice 2.0 in spring 2022 with a focus on growing talent, developing infrastructure and product to establish Cherokee as a “total package,” and cultivating strong innovative businesses to ensure economic opportunity for all.
Tom Cox
Senior Services accepts donations from caring people throughout the county. If you would like to donate, please contact our office. L
FamilyLife Publications.com 27Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
The staff is also challenged with calls from those who are concerned about unhealthy/unsafe living conditions of some seniors. Recently, Todd, who is one of our Senior Helpers home health contractors, informed us of a client’s home that was infested with roaches, and he was doing everything possible to help control the problem, including using his own funds. He is a true servant of the people who goes above and beyond to help our seniors, and Cherokee Senior Services appreciates him more than he’ll ever know.
More than 20 volunteers showed up to clean and remove clutter. When we started cleaning the second room, we ran into some hazardous conditions and had to consult a biohazard team, which found additional problems with the house. Our staff worked hard to find outside groups willing to make necessary repairs, but we were unsuccessful in this quest. Unfortunately, this lady has still not been able to return to her home.
[Lifestyle] Cherokee County Senior Services faces various challenges regarding not only the seniors in our program but also seniors throughout the county. Basic needs range from home meal delivery to homemaker services to transportation.
Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services770-479-7438.
Todd is just one example; there are many valuable individuals on the Senior Services staff as well as community volunteers who go the extra mile. Last spring, we received a request to help a senior who had part of her foot amputated, and she had so much stuff in her home that she couldn’t safely move around. Someone from her community contacted Senior Services, and we started making calls to find people to help.
SERVING OUR Seniors
By Tim Morris
In addition to teaching her classes, Mickel also organizes the school art show, volunteers to create art for her
“I love art, I love working with children, and I love that teaching allows me to be creative,” she said.
Mickel, who was named her school’s 2022 Teacher of the Year and a Cherokee County School District Teacher of the Year finalist, makes every moment count in her class, from the carefully crafted lessons to the fun learning games that fill any spare
L
“Students used marker caps to add eyespots to the butterflies; they added pieces of clay to their butterflies’ wings to create texture; and they used clay tools and pencils to draw cool designs on their butterflies,” she said of last school year’s projects. “The butterflies turned out beautifully!”
tell me that art class flies by. I know it does for me, as I am teaching. When it is time to clean up, they say it feels like they have only been in class for five minutes, even though classes are 45 minutes,” she said, noting that she is always trying to develop new ideas and projects. “I think this is because students are constantly challenged and are excited about the projects in art. Students love to create!”
As an example, her second-grade students make clay butterflies. Mickel gives them a general idea (make a butterfly), guides them on how to construct it with clay, and then stands back to allow their ideas to soar.
“Studentsminutes.frequently
Barbara P. Jacoby is the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District. CherokeeK12.net770-704-4228.
BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
school (including murals, T-shirt designs, and bulletin boards), and has served on the school district’s fine arts committee.
What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school?
Emily Mickel
Teacher Feature
“I try to choose projects that give students a structure, or guidelines, but also allow them to explore their creativity. I give my students a starting point and then allow them to actualize their own designs,” the 23-year educator said. “It is like a mystery or a puzzle.”
“Parents can be interested in their child’s work,” Mickel said. “They can let their students know that their work is valued, and it is important. I think the most successful students are the ones whose parents value education. Education is a way to change people’s lives. Parents can talk about what their students learn and can display their child’s work at home. Encouraging their children when they have success, but also teaching them how they can learn from their failures are significant ways parents can contribute to their children’s success. We all make mistakes. If your child doesn’t do well on a project or a test, what can he or she learn from it? How can she or he improve the next time?”
ittle River ES art teacher Emily Mickel teaches her students techniques to let their imaginations take flight.
28 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
FamilyLife Publications.com 29Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive director for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org770-704-4213.
Golf check in and warm-ups begin at 8:00am with a shotgun start at 10:00am. Pickleball and tennis check in and warm-ups begin at 8:00am, and matches begin at 9:00am. Preregistration for all three events is available at CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation. org. The CCEF raises funds and awareness for the public schools of the Cherokee County School District (CCSD). All proceeds from these events will go back into classrooms to ensure excellence in education for CCSD students.
Players will be treated to a grab-and-go breakfast, a catered lunch, and amazing swag from event sponsors. Space is limited, so please register early for this enjoyable fundraiser that benefits a great cause.
Based on total number of players registered, tennis and pickleball contestants will play opponents with similar skill levels. Players should expect 3-4 total matches in tournament play, and winning teams will be able to select a teacher or school to be awarded a classroom Rapid Grant.
Golf, Tennis, and Pickleball, Anyone?
[Academic Life] You might be surprised to know that the fastest growing sport in the U.S. right now is pickleball. It is loud, fun, easy on your joints, and a great workout for people of all ages. This year, for the first time, pickleball has been added to Cherokee County Education Foundation’s (CCEF) tournament line up! Mark your calendar for this year’s Tennis and Pickleball Classic, presented by the Credit Union of Georgia, and the annual Golf Classic, presented by Northside Hospital Cherokee, all taking place on October 10 at the BridgeMill Athletic Club.
By Lisa-Marie Haygood
Photo courtesy of Andrew Turner
Boundaries
Magic
“I assembled a bunch of incredible musicians, lifelong friends that I grew up with, and together, we put together something that is magic,” Ward said. “It makes me tremendously happy to play these fantastic songs, the hits of an era most people remember as a good time. The music wasn’t necessarily a sophisticated meal, but it was something everyone, every race, many generations enjoyed.”
When guitarist, songwriter, and producer Rich “The Duke” Ward talks about music, he describes it as “magic.” He recalls the excitement he felt as a teen making his own playlists on his cassette recorder, flipping through albums in record stores, or dropping quarters in a jukebox then waiting for his selections to play.
“It seemed dangerous,” said Ward, who calls Canton home. “It seemed like something your parents would hate. So, we all did it. It was pushing the boundaries of the culture.”
“The goal,” he said, “was not to be the biggest rock star on the planet; it was just to be the best show that night, to communicate that love of playing, to build that relationship with the audience.”
Fozzy has released eight albums and earned its first gold record in 2021 for Judas, the album and song of the same name.
Ward’s most recent venture, Guardians of the Jukebox, departs from the heavy metal genre that established him. Created during the pandemic when Fozzy wasn’t touring, Guardians captures the sounds and emotions of a less divisive time, appealing to teens through septuagenarians by playing hits from the 1980s.
“It’s about having a conversation,” Ward said. “That’s the goal every night. It’s not just to get the notes right. It’s casting that spell, communicating without talking.”
That joy is seen at Guardians’ concerts including three local concerts this past summer where audience members danced and sang along.
Photo courtesy of Mark Strigl
Now 53, Ward continues to push boundaries. Beginning with the rap/metal band Stuck Mojo, formed in 1989, Ward has toured the world. In 1999, he formed the metal group Fozzy with Chris Jericho. Still going strong,
chemistry — chemistry between band members and chemistry between the audience and the band.
Photo courtesy of Adrienne Beacco
For decades, Ward dedicated himself to the metal rock that enthralled him as a teen. Along the way, he has met his heroes and become a recognized artist. In 2018, Fozzy opened for Iron Maiden, his favorite band as a teen. Then came the gold record in 2021. Now, still touring with Fozzy and Guardians of the Jukebox, he has no plans to stop doing what gives him “purpose.”
30 Woodstock Family Life | October 2022 Add to Your Business!
The genres that attracted him most were punk and heavy metal.
For more information about Ward or any of his bands, please visit Facebook.com/ thedukeofmetal, Instagram.com/ officialrichward, GuardiansOfTheJukebox.com, or TheDukeOfMetal.com. BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Artist Profile
Pushing and Making Rich Duke” Ward
While Ward says Fozzy’s longevity is due to hard work and commitment, one has only to watch him perform to see that passion is also Passionkey.and
“The
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