




January has arrived, bringing with it a season of fresh starts, renewed focus, and setting meaningful intentions for the year ahead. It’s also the perfect opportunity to prioritize what truly matters— our health and wellness. That’s why this issue of Canton City Lifestyle is dedicated to helping you embrace a healthier, more balanced life.
In this month’s issue, we explore the many facets of health and wellness, from fitness and mental well-being to the power of accountability. Canton is rich with resources, from local fitness studios offering inspiring workouts to wellness practitioners and churches supporting balance and spiritual growth. One of the most vital aspects of this journey is realizing that we don’t have to go it alone. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a small group, a therapist, or friends cheering you on, having a support system can be the key to long-term success.
We’re thrilled to feature Scott and Hailey Clark this month, two familiar faces from events at The Mill on Etowah. They’ve embarked on a new health journey together, and as newly expecting parents, they are stepping into an exciting new season of life. Congratulations to the Clarks on their growing family!
Additionally, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on Hidden Acres Animal Sanctuary, a truly remarkable retreat in Canton. Offering experiences like their popular Animal Happy Hour and upcoming cow-hugging sessions, this sanctuary fosters healing and connection in ways that go far beyond relaxation. Rooted in compassion and inclusivity, Hidden Acres reminds us of the beauty in slowing down, embracing nature, and finding joy in the bond between humans and animals. Their story is sure to inspire, and perhaps it’s just the place for you to find your own moment of tranquility.
As we embrace this new year, let’s remember that wellness is not about perfection—it’s about progress. Small, consistent steps can lead to meaningful change, and there’s no better time than now to start taking them. Here’s to a healthy, happy, and thriving 2025!
Thank you for allowing Canton City Lifestyle to be part of your journey. Together, we’ll celebrate every milestone along the way.
This is your City, this is your Lifestyle.
CHICKA ELLOY, PUBLISHER @CANTONCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Elloy | @elloyjenny
Charlie Divine | @divineforsenator
Jamie Dunster | @Tarttdudu
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Naomi Hopkins | @naomihopkinsphoto
Kevin Jonas-Davis | @Kdaviswhat
Trent Crimm | @LanceTheIndependant
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn
Financial wellness transcends the simplicity of paying bills or saving for the future—it's about creating a life of confidence, stability, and long-term financial independence.
What matters most to you? Whether it’s purchasing your dream home, funding a child’s education, retiring in luxury, or ensuring your legacy lives on through thoughtful estate planning, your goals are as personal as they are significant.
True financial wellness demands more than saving and investing. It’s about managing debt, building emergency reserves, reviewing insurance coverage, and keeping your estate plan up to date.
Financial wellness is not a “set it and forget it” endeavor. As life evolves, so should your financial plan. Regular reviews and adjustments ensure your strategy aligns with your changing circumstances and continues to support your goals.
At Madison Financial & Associates, we specialize in helping individuals and families work towards financial wellness through personalized, professional planning.
Hidden Acres Animal Sanctuary
Canton’s
Whirled Peas!
Veggies
WHERE
CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: 3 clues solve the mystery of “Who Dunnit” at Woodmont Golf Club 2: Cherokee Chamber is ready to connect you in 2025. 3: Relax and renew with Serene Complexions. 4: RevStudents get to spend nights of fun, worship, and smiles with their friends in Canton 5: The Grinch cranking out the jams for Bizarre Coffee 5K this fall 2024. 6: The gift of cozy moments and delicious memories with Sweety’s Café! 7: Enjoy creative drinks, play games like darts, bowling, and board games with the sisters @bandbsocialcanton
What sets me apart in the health insurance industry? It’s simple: licensed expertise with a human touch. I make complex policies easy to understand— without the jargon—and focus on finding plans that work for your real life, not just on paper. I’m here here to lift the heavy load, simplify the process, and keep you confidently covered.
Providers are stepping up, too! From expanded preventive care coverage to telemedicine making healthcare accessible from your couch, the industry is moving toward proactive, user-friendly solutions.
At my company, trust and integrity are everything. My goal? To make insurance less of a headache while delivering real, tailored solutions.
Clients often call me ‘Honest Abe’ for a reason—I keep it real and work tirelessly for your health and future. Health insurance is a puzzle, and I’m here to solve it.
With Abraham, you're covered from A to Z. Open enrollment is upon us.
From First-Time Riders to Aspiring Champions. Revelation Farm believes in the transformative power of horses, enhancing both our lives and personal growth. Their focus is on nurturing both you and our horses, with a commitment to creating a harmonious bond between horse and rider. Lead trainer and expert Danielle Perry is passionate about fostering this connection, using her expertise to enhance the "horse harmony" experience. RevelationFarm.com
Photography by @RevelationFarm1911
Garland Mountain Sporting Clays & Grill is tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where friends, family, and associates happily gather to blast away at flying targets, complimented by great food, spirits, and hospitality. After the tragedy of last year's fire, the beautiful lodge is back, and you can take turns aiming at clay targets soaring through the skyline. Each offers a unique target presentation for both seasoned and beginner shooters. GarlandMountain.com
Photography by @garlandmountainsportingclub
Glow Skin & Wholeness, LLC is a skincare spa using a clinical skincare line to treat aging, sun damage and acne type skins. Our owner, Stephanie Aratea has been a licensed Esthetician for over 25 years. She brings her European and Medical trainings as well as her love for skin to create a customized treatment plan for her clients. Her motto; “Glow from the Inside out!” You will walk away feeling refreshed, cared for, and glowing. GlowSkinWholeness.com
Photography by @GlowSkinWholeness
Make 2025 the year to explore properties with long-term value, whether you're expanding your portfolio or purchasing your home.
Sellers, focus on renovations that increase market appeal. Updated kitchens, modern fixtures, and curb appeal.
With evolving mortgage rates, consult a financial expert to lock in the best deals and make informed decisions.
Choose neighborhoods that enrich your life— proximity to amenities and community feel matters more than ever. Let your real estate goals lead to elevated living.
Landlords, upgrade to smart home tech and professional property management tools to enhance efficiency.
Text - 678.899.8909
Your “Ess”ential Guide in Canton
ARTICLE BY CHARLIE DIVINE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HIDDEN ACRES ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Where Wellness Meets Connection in Canton
Nestled between the neighborhoods of Rivergreen and Bridgemill lies a farm where nature, community, and compassion converge. Hidden Acres Animal Sanctuary (HAAS), located off Butterworth Road, is more than just a serene retreat; it’s a beacon of hope and healing for those seeking connection and rejuvenation. Under the visionary leadership of Sarah Carney, this nonprofit is redefining the meaning of health and wellness in ways that touch both body and soul.
From its signature goat yoga sessions to innovative animal-assisted therapy, Hidden Acres offers an array of transformative experiences. One standout event, Animal Happy Hour, has earned a devoted following, often selling out weeks in advance. Participants find joy and relaxation in the company of gentle therapy animals, creating moments of peace and connection in their busy lives. Looking to 2025, the sanctuary is preparing to launch its much-anticipated “cow-hugging” sessions.
At the center of this initiative is Bessie, the celebrated “wonder cow,” whose calming presence has already captured hearts near and far—even inspiring a group from Savannah to book an exclusive visit.
While its public events draw widespread attention, Hidden Acres is deeply committed to serving those who need it most. Sarah partners with organizations like Empower Cherokee, Limitless Disabilities, and Transitions Academy to pay forward animal-assisted therapy for individuals with special needs, seniors in memory care, and those navigating emotional challenges. These offerings have led to inspiring breakthroughs, from
improved emotional expression to moments of clarity and joy among memory care patients and all guests and residents on the receiving end of their animal therapy programs.
Sarah’s dedication stems from her own healing journey. After experiencing profound loss, she turned to the unconditional support of therapy animals, finding solace and resilience in their presence. Today, she channels that transformative experience into her work at HAAS, ensuring others can benefit from the unique bond between humans and animals.
For those seeking a deeper connection with HAAS, the sanctuary offers charming Airbnb accommodations right on the property. Guests
“Led by Sarah Carney and her dedicated team, the sanctuary thrives on innovative wellness initiatives, passionate volunteers, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Despite challenges—including increasing operational costs—Hidden Acres continues to grow and serve as a hub for mental and emotional well-being.”
are invited to immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythms of farm life, surrounded by scenic landscapes and gentle rescue animals. Staying at the farm not only provides a rejuvenating retreat but also directly supports HAAS’s mission to bring wellness and joy to the community. In addition to its therapeutic programs, the sanctuary hosts a range of private events and community-focused initiatives. These gatherings generate vital funding while offering locals opportunities to engage with the sanctuary’s vision of wellness and connection. Events held at nearby venues, such as The Mill on Etowah, extend HAAS’s reach, allowing even more people to experience its unique offerings.
At the heart of Hidden Acres is a dedicated team of 81 volunteers who bring energy, compassion, and care to every aspect of the sanctuary. Sarah is intentional about fostering meaningful roles for her volunteers, particularly older individuals who often find renewed purpose and joy through their involvement. Rather than focusing on large recruitment numbers, Hidden Acres Animal Sanctuary prioritizes creating a supportive environment where volunteers feel valued and connected to the sanctuary’s mission.
The sanctuary plans to expand its wellness and therapy offerings while resuming new volunteer operations in late February. Upcoming events will continue to reflect its commitment to creating spaces where individuals of all abilities can feel seen, supported, and inspired. In addition to financial contributions, Hidden Acres encourages participation in its programs, from Animal Happy Hour to the new cow-hugging sessions. Each interaction strengthens the sanctuary’s ability to sustain its mission and grow its impact.
For more information to donate to this healing cause, or to explore ways to get involved, visit HiddenAcresAnimalSanctuary.org and discover the healing power of this remarkable sanctuary. Together, we can ensure it thrives, enriching lives and bringing wellness to the Canton community and beyond.
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE
Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.
Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 beet
• 1 carrot
• 1 celery stalk
• 1-2 inches of ginger
• 1 lemon
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 fresh or frozen banana
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh mint and/or 1-3 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups cucumber
• 1 cup Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup celery
• 1 handful baby spinach
• 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie)
• 1 sprig parsley
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
myturningpoint.org
We turn NO ONE away
Since 2003, TurningPoint - the 501(c)3 charity - has been a warrior in rehabilitation for breast cancer. In-Clinic and telehealth appointments are avaliable:
One-on-one Oncology Physical Therapy
Specialized Massage Therapy
Counseling and Support Groups
Oncology Exercise Coaching Nutrition and Survivorship Workshops.
Call 770.360.9271 x2 to book appointments. Transport & financial assistance availiable. Most major insurance companies accepted.
Scott’s story is one of transformation— both personal and professional. In June 2024, he made a leap from a local Canton gym and embarked on a mission to redefine coaching, focusing not just on workouts but on the holistic well-being of his clients. Today, as a lifestyle and accountability coach with Hybralete Fitness, Scott is charting new territory in health and wellness, emphasizing personalized care, nutrition education, and long-term sustainability over quick fixes.
For Scott, coaching is more than just creating workout programs. It’s about diving into the why behind a client’s goals and helping them achieve meaningful, lasting change. Working alongside an elite team at Hybrid Elite Fitness, Scott has embraced a personalized coaching approach that prioritizes the individual over the routine.
“Understanding a client’s motivations and goals is foundational,” Scott explains. “Without that, even the best program won’t deliver the results they truly want.” By connecting with his clients on a deeper level, Scott ensures that every plan he designs is as unique as the person it serves.
A cornerstone of Scott’s coaching philosophy is the role of nutrition in overall health. He educates clients on macro tracking, intentional eating, and creating habits that support longevity. While he doesn’t prescribe meal plans, Scott offers guidance rooted in scientific principles, empowering his clients to make informed diet choices.
“Nutrition isn’t just about hitting your macros,” he says. “It’s about understanding how food fuels your body and supports your long-term goals.”
This approach is particularly impactful for clients navigating significant life transitions, such as Scott’s work with Haley, who is shifting from bodybuilding to preparing for pregnancy. Together, they’ve emphasized sustainable practices prioritizing physical and emotional well-being, proving that health is a lifelong journey, not a destination. Their faith serves as the cornerstone of their health and coaching journey, shaping their perspective on fitness to honor the body as a gift from God. Drawing on His strength, they have overcome personal
BY JAMIE DUNSTER |
The Clarks keep their faith at the heart of their mission, embracing wellness with a spiritual foundation. “
challenges and guided clients toward achieving their goals while uncovering their full potential. Deeply passionate about inspiring healthier lifestyles, the Clarks keep faith at the heart of their mission, empowering others to embrace wellness with a spiritual foundation.
Scott and Haley are furthering their expertise with plans to develop maternity and postpartum workout programs. These initiatives will focus on supporting mental health, rebuilding fitness after pregnancy, and creating a positive body image for new mothers.
“This isn’t just about physical recovery,” Scott notes. “It’s about equipping moms with the knowledge and confidence they need to mentally and physically thrive.”
Scott and Haley bring a unique dimension to their coaching through their certification in mindset coaching and Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Integrating these techniques into their practices helps clients overcome mental barriers and adopt healthier perspectives on fitness and nutrition.
“Coaching isn’t just about the body— it’s about the mind,” Scott says. “When clients understand the why behind their actions and the potential impact of their
habits, it transforms how they approach their health.”
Scott’s dedication to long-term wellness isn’t just limited to his clients; it’s part of a larger vision to inspire and educate the community. Alongside Haley, he will soon be featured as a subject matter expert in health and wellness, offering insights that bridge fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
As part of this initiative, Scott and Haley plan to share their journey through visually stunning images and expert-driven content, blending personal storytelling with actionable advice. This effort aims to connect with a broader audience and showcase how personalized coaching can transform lives. By emphasizing education, accountability, and sustainable habits, they're empowering clients—and the community—to embrace a more intentional approach to wellness.
Whether through macro tracking, postpartum programs, or mindset coaching, The mission is clear: to help people achieve their goals and thrive in every aspect of their lives. Focusing on connection, education, and transformation, The Clarks set a new standard for health and fitness in Canton.
ARTICLE AND
BY TYLER SHANE
Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months
As we continue to embrace the cold weather, we may find ourselves craving heavier and grounding foods as we retreat into hibernation. This change in appetite reflects our body’s desire to align with the cycles of nature. Moving into the New Year, it can be common to place more discipline or restrictions on our eating habits. But what if instead of dieting, we nourished ourselves by choosing to support the ebb and flow of our body’s seasons? What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt.
This Italian wedding soup recipe is simple in its approach, but the result is a hearty and brothy dish. Chunky meats and vegetables add texture to the rich, savory broth making it the ideal meal to help you retreat from the cold temperatures. The Hasselback bread loaf is a straightforward, melty wonder and the perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover broth and goodies in your soup bowl. Together, the soup and cheesy bread make for a well-rounded meal to ground you this season, with a little indulgence.
• 1 Italian bread loaf
• 1 cup butter
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz. bag of shredded mozzarella cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Cut foil that is 3 times the length of the bread loaf and lay flat on countertop.
3. Place bread loaf parallel to the length of the foil.
4. With a serrated knife, cut bread in ¾ in. slices, making sure not to cut all the way through.
5. Melt butter in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings. Stir to incorporate.
6. With a pastry brush, coat the slices of bread with butter mixture. Be generous with your butter! If you have leftover butter, pour the rest over the entire loaf.
7. Grab handfuls of mozzarella cheese and stuff in between each slice.
8. Cover the bread loaf with foil and place in oven. Bake for 20 minutes, uncovering the foil for the last 5 minutes until the top of the bread is golden brown.
4 Servings
• 1 lb. fresh or frozen pre-made meatballs
• ½ cup carrots, diced small
• ½ cup celery, diced small
• 1 cup onions, diced small
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 48 oz low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup orzo pasta (or any small, short noodle)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped roughly
• 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley
1. Whether freshly baked or cooked from frozen, prepare your meatballs and set aside. Meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge.
2. Bring a medium-sized pot to medium heat. Add oil and butter.
3. Add vegetables to the pot and sweat until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir occasionally.
4. Add the bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to vegetables. Turn heat to medium-high.
5. Bring broth mixture to a rolling boil for five minutes. With tongs, add meatballs to the boiling broth.
6. Add orzo to the broth, stirring continuously to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
7. Continue to cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes. Taste test to make sure pasta is al dente.
8. Throw the fresh herbs into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately.
When a new chapter begins, get peace of mind by planning for the future. Because there’s no time like the present to financially protect their tomorrows.
Original Price
Woodmont
Bridgemill
Courtyards
Estates at Brooke Park
Northampton Falls
Bridgemill
Edgewater Falls at Hickory Flat
Hickory Flat
Great Sky
Owens Mill
Soleil Belmont Park
Red Gate Ridge
Hidden Branches
Estates at Brooke Park
Soleil Belmont Park
Royal Oaks
Orange Shoals
River Green
Soleil Laurel Canyon
Bridgemill
Soleil Laurel Canyon
Bailey’s Manor
Soleil Laurel Canyon
Great Sky
Great Sky
The Collection at Hickory Flat
Bridgemill
Bridgemill
Birchwood
Harrison Farms
Sold Price
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$2,695,000 $794,340
JANUARY 1ST
100 Years of Play at the Cherokee History Museum
221 E. Marietta St. Canton, GA 30114 | 10:00 AM
This winter, the Byron L. Dobbs Exhibit Gallery is hosting a heartwarming temporary exhibit, A Century of Toys: 100 Years of Play, just in time for the holiday season. Curated by Chuck Douglas, the collection spans three generations of his family’s cherished toys, alongside contributions from other families and History Cherokee’s archives. Exhibit runs through the beginning of February. HistoryCherokee.org/
JANUARY 5TH
Menagerie on Main Dive into Watercolor and Drawing on Sunday
351 W Main St. Canton, Ga 30114 | 2:00 PM
Explore the unique qualities of watercolor. Learn various techniques such as wet in wet, dry brush, glazing, and special effects. Color theory, design, composition and other aspects of painting will also be covered. Bring any supplies you have with you. The first class will go over what to look for in buying supplies that will help give you the best results. MenagerieOnMain.com/classes-and-workshops
JANUARY 6TH
Cornhole ATL at The Mill on Etowah
225 Reformation Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114 | 7:00 PM
Register to join the fun at Reformation Brewery for some serious fun and cornhole games. CornholeATL.com
JANUARY 12TH
The Blankets Creek Wildlife Management Day
2261 Sixes Rd, Canton, GA 30114 | 5:30 AM
Cherokee Recreation and Parks, which acts as the official land manager for the Blankets Creek property, will host a wildlife management event at Blanket’s Creek Park for the third year in a row. Cherokee County leases the property from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).Hunters will be selected through a lottery process with a maximum of 20 hunters per session. PlayCherokee.org/413/Blankets-Creek-Wildlife-Management-Event
JANUARY 25TH
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and Fox Gives
171 E Main St. Canton, Georgia 30114 | 9:30 AM
The Georgia Trust and Fox Gives invite you to explore some of Northwest Georgia’s most historic theaters during our second co-hosted Historic Theaters Expedition on Saturday, January 25th. GEM Theatre, DeSoto Theatre, Canton Theatre, and Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre tours we will discover the architecture and history of these individual theaters through exclusive tours and learn more about their ongoing preservation efforts. GeorgiaTrust.org/ticket/2025-historic-theaters-expedition/
JANUARY 26TH
The School of Barbecue
149 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton, GA, USA, United States | 10:00 AM
Come join Four 41 South BBQ with Guest Mikey Kay from Fire and Smoke BBQ for a sizzling good time. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, our class is for you. We will go over Briskets, Ribs, Whole Chicken, Pork Butts and of course some of our BBQ sides! Lunch will be provided.