Cherokee Life Jan-Feb 2018

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CHL CHEROKEE

LIFE Published by The Cherokee Tribune January/February 2018

Love

is in the air for 2 Cherokee couples Check out what businesses got your top votes!

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At home Mardi Gras recipes

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4 CHEROKEE LIFE January/February 2018 Volume 13, Issue 1

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Lee B. Garrett

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Wade Stephens

V.P. OF SALES AND MARKETING Travis Knight

EDITORIAL STAFF MAGAZINE COORDINATOR

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LaTria Garnigan

EDITOR

in every issue

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WHAT’S INSIDE 8 SPICE Celebrate Mardi Gras at home with these delicious recipes from the Service League cookbook 12 VALENTINE’S DAY Two Cherokee couples share their secrets to long and happy marriages 18 BEST OF We’ve profiled the Best Of Cherokee thanks to your votes

Gary Tanner

CHEROKEE PERSPECTIVE

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NEWS AND NOTEWORTHY

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HIGHLIGHTS SCENE

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REFLECTIONS

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ON THE COVER: Cherokee couple Nathan & Judy Brandon Photo by Erin Gray Cantrell

CONTRIBUTORS Rebecca Johnston, Thomas Hartwell, Shannon Ballew

PHOTOGRAPHER Erin Gray Cantrell

LAYOUT AND DESIGN LaTria Garnigan, Beth Poirier

ADVERTISING STAFF ADVERTISING MANAGER Paula Milton

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tara Guest

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 770-Arborist 7

Kennesaw State University

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Aqua Guard Basements

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Mid City Pharmacy

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Brumby Chair Company

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Northside Hospital - Cherokee

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Canton Theatre

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Perimeter North Family Medicine

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Canton Tire and Wheel

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Plastic Surgery Center of The South

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Carriage Kia of Woodstock

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Provino’s 5

Cherokee County Arts Council

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Reinhardt University -

Cherokee County Farm Bureau

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Cherokee Storage Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

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Falany Performaning Service Master

30 33

Superior Plumbing

Fowler Electric

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The Lindsey Haas Team

Frosty Frog Creamery & Café Funk Heritage Center

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11 28

29 21

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11&17

Wellstar 2 Woodstock Funeral Home

Becky Opitz Ginny Hrushka, Tracy Hoopingarner, Jill Abbott

GRAPHICS COORDINATOR Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jennifer Hall

PRODUCTION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett

Salon • Spa Venessa

Darby Funeral Home

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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INFORMATION Cherokee Life is published six times a year by the Cherokee Tribune and distributed to more than 20,000 homes and businesses.

To subscribe, email circulation@ cherokeelifemagazine.com or call 770-795-5001 To advertise, contact Paula Milton at 770-905-4546 Please send all editorial correspondence to gtanner@cherokeelifemagazine.com

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5 [CHEROKEE PERSPECTIVE]

Love

is still alive

By Rebecca Johnston

M

y grandmother had a scrapbook hidden away in her armoire filled with beautiful greeting cards that were mailed to her on special occasions by her family or friends, most sent in the days following the Great Depression or during World War II. When I was a child I loved to get out that old scrapbook and pore over it, reading the messages, gently touching the intricate details of the cards, fingering the thin paper and admiring the colors. Many were Valentines, sent as a message of love.

By the time I was a small child and can remember visiting at my grandmother’s little house on Main Street she was already in her early 70s. My grandfather died suddenly when she was just 50, but her love for him was a shining beacon that continued to glow in her heart the rest of her life.

When she talked about him it almost seemed as though he was still alive and she had just seen him that day. It was a love that traversed this world and the next and I always knew that it was real and meaningful, a wonderful legacy she gave me of what relationships should be.

I always loved to shop for Valentine cards, begging my mother to take me to Kessler’s, the five and dime in downtown Canton, or McClure’s bookstore so that I could choose a box of cards to address to my classmates. I also loved this time of year at Canton Drug Store and Grist-Landers, where giant red heart-shaped candy boxes lined the counter.

In these times when it seems there is more strife than love around us, when the world seems to grow ever more cynical and uncaring, when opinions are more divided than ever, it is nice to pause and give homage to all that is good in the world.

Here in Cherokee County, and in small communities that make up our country, love for our neighbors, our friends and

those in need is still alive and well.

I see it every day in those who work at food banks and help the homeless, those who take time to make sure children in need have warm coats and some food when they are not in school. Those are expressions of love.

But despite a society that seems more interconnected through social media, many people find themselves alone. Elderly neighbors who don’t have family nearby, young people who are just locating here, those struggling with illness or divorce or lack of a job.

“The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves,” Victor Hugo.

That quote reminds me of how much we want to be accepted, how important friendship is. In this season of love what better time to reach out and show we care.

I love to reminisce about growing up in Canton, to walk the sidewalks of Canton in my memories, when it seemed I knew everyone in town.

But I also love our community today, one where love and caring continues to shine bright, just like my grandmother’s eyes when she remembered her Henry. n

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Breakfast spot quickly becoming destination Woodstock residents can now enjoy unique breakfast items like a Squawking Goat biscuit and share in stories with store staff and visitors at one of the city’s newest dining destinations.

Maple Street Biscuit Co., which bills itself as a comfort food café with community-centered values, opened its newest location off Towne Lake Parkway in November.

“We chose Woodstock because it’s fast-growing,” owner Blair Typer said. “I’m an Acworth and Woodstock native. I’ve been here since 1991, so I know the people.”

The Maple Street Biscuit Co. location isn’t being branded as a restaurant first. The real reason for serving food in the Woodstock community is to serve and get to know the people of the city, whether that means giving someone a second chance at life with a job offer, or simply talking to a customer who sits down for brunch, she said.

“We’re a community store — we’re not considering ourselves a restaurant. We sell food as a means to help our community,” Typer

Sponsored by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau, Cherokee County Extension Office, the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Woodstock.

The Agriculture Expo is part of the National and Georgia Agriculture Month.

Cherokee County Farm Bureau Commodity of the year is apples. Enjoy visiting over 30 different Agriculture Display Booths and refreshments. This event is free and open to the public.

Farmer Sue and TheArtBarn Crew from Morning Glory Farm will be there with several of her furry feathery friends to celebrate Art, Animals, Agriculture and Education. Locally grown foods, plants, animals and hand crafted products.

Farmers Markets, 4-H, FFA and Master Gardeners will be on hand.

If you would like to have a booth or find out more about agriculture in Cherokee County please call the Farm Bureau at 770-479-1481 ext. o

www.cherokeegaexpo.info

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pecan-smoked bacon and asiago cheese thrown into the batter, a biscuit with goat cheese and pepper jelly with just a little kick and the popular “Five and Dime” – a flaky biscuit, chicken breast, pecan-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese and a fried egg, topped with your choice of sausage gravy or house-made shiitake mushroom gravy.

Store hours are Monday-Thursday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Catering is offered for any event and the store is available for rent for various occasions.

Maple Street Biscuit Co. was established in Jacksonville, Florida, five years ago and has since expanded to 17 locations in the Southeast. There are four more locations “coming soon,” according to the company’s website.

The company also owns its own line of coffee and variations of hot sauces.

For more information, visit maplestreetbiscuits.com.

— Thomas Hartwell

Tropical Smoothie Café opens first Cherokee location

AGRICULTURE EXPO

Friday, March 16, 2018 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

said.

The Woodstock café prides itself on its community and customer-first mentality, offering several in-store means of getting to know your neighbors, Typer said.

“We offer community seating so you can speak with that neighbor you never got to meet before,” she said. “We welcome you to sit with strangers and chat about our food, or invite the guy sitting alone to eat with you and maybe discuss your favorite band. If you haven’t caught on, we love community.”

The business offers patio seating, which Typer said is popular even in the cold weather thanks to the outdoor fireplace.

“We offer a few things that are a little off-the-market, which means you can’t get them anywhere else,” Typer said. “We’re not just known for our eggs and our biscuits. We’re known for our sandwiches and the crazy stuff that goes in between the two slices of that biscuit.”

Signature dishes include a waffle with

For those looking for a healthy way to start the New Year, Cherokee County got its first Tropical Smoothie Café in December.

The new storefront is at 2249 Cumming Highway, according to Meritage Restaurant Group, the company that manages the fast-casual restaurant.

“We’re thrilled to be opening Cherokee County’s first Tropical Smoothie Café,” said Meghan Cook, the Canton shop’s owner.

“The demand for healthier food and smoothies is growing, and we are pleased to offer the Canton community our fresh, made-to-order menu.”

The Canton location is the second to be opened by Meritage Restaurant Group. Settling in the area was a simple decision, and more Cherokee County locations are in the works, a company statement said.

“We became interested in the

Canton Exchange location as soon as we were made aware of it because of the tremendous growth in the area,” said Debbie Pike, co-owner of Meritage Restaurant Group. “We also like the community feel of Canton, with its historic downtown, special events and parks. We will continue to look for locations within Cherokee County with a current eye on potential locations in Woodstock.”

The new location also fits the Tropical Smoothie Café agenda in finding locations close to health care providers, schools and families, she said.

The family-owned management group plans to open eight more cafés in Cobb and Cherokee counties.

Tropical Smoothie Café celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, and continues to promote a healthier lifestyle by offering smoothies made with

natural ingredients, fresh wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads and bowls, the company said.

Signature menu items include the chipotle chicken club flatbread, the buffalo chicken wrap and the island green smoothie.

The fast-casual dining concept boasts more than 600 locations nationwide, a successful mobile app and mobile ordering capabilities, the company said.

The franchise has been featured on the Entrepreneur’s 2017 Franchise 500 list, the Fast Casual Top 100 Movers and Shakers, Franchise Times’ Top 200+ and Nation’s Restaurant News’ 2016 Top 200.

For more information, visit tropicalsmoothiecafe.com or follow Tropical Smoothie Café Canton on Facebook for grand opening news.

— Thomas Hartwell

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10 Here are some recipes to help spice up your Mardi Gras celebration:

Ashley Adams and Neely Bursmith.

Bread Pudding

n Day old French bread dinner rolls (or any crusty dinner rolls or loaf of bread; about 8 rolls or 1 large loaf)

n 1 cup white sugar n 1 quart half and half n 5 eggs n ¼ tsp. vanilla extract n Praline sauce Optional garnishes: whipped cream, walnuts

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Cut each roll in half and then cut into 3/8-inch or ½-inch slices. Transfer to a large bowl. Sprinkle sugar over the bread slices. Pour half and half over bread. In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs and vanilla. Pour over bread. Mix all ingredients gently but thoroughly, then let mixture soak 15 minutes. Mix again and then allow to soak another 15 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread the bread mixture evenly in a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until pudding is set and lightly browned on top. Serve each piece with 2 to 3 tablespoons Praline Sauce and optional whipped cream and walnuts.

Praline Sauce

n ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter n ½ lb. (1 ½ c.) light brown sugar n 1 c. heavy whipping cream

In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Stir in the brown sugar; then bring to a rolling boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Stir in the cream. Return to a boil; then immediately remove from the heat. Stir in the vanilla. Serve at room temperature.

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11 n 1 8-ounce cream cheese, softened n 1 tbsp. grated onion n 1 clove minced garlic n ¼ cup dark brown sugar n ½ stick butter n 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce n ½ tsp. mustard n 1 cup finely chopped pecans Mix together the first three ingredients and form. Cover and chill for at least one hour.

Combine the next five ingredients in a pan and cook over medium heat until sugar has dissolved. Pour on top of cream cheese and cover. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve with crackers. n

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By Rebecca Johnston | Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

F

ebruary is a time to delight in all things romantic. Valentine’s Day is set aside to remember your significant other, but relationships that last need to find romance and love throughout the year.

Two couples talk about their marriages and what keeps them strong.

After more than four decades, marriage going strong Nathan and Judy Brandon of Canton met 46 years ago as college students in Judy’s very first class, music theory.

The two performed as partners in “Carousel,” their spring musical at the college that year, and they have been singing together ever since.

In their 44 years of marriage, which has brought them two children, and five grandchildren, the two have never doubted they were meant to be.

“Judy and I met in September of 1971 in music theory class at 8 a.m. It was her very first college

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class.

Nathan said he introduced himself to her later when he walked past a piano rehearsal room and heard someone playing the piano beautifully.

“I waited outside the room because I wanted to meet whoever it was. It was Judy. From that point, I was interested in getting to know her better,” he said.

Eventually, when asked if there were preferences for a partner in the musical production of Carousel Nathan asked her to be my partner.

“We were singers and dancers in the chorus and we have been singing and dancing ever since,” he said with a smile.

Judy said after that college performance together, the rest was history. She said when she met him he had all the qualifications for a lifelong spouse she was looking for.

“First of all, he was a strong Christian. Plus, I always hoped to marry someone with a good sense of humor. It didn’t take long to realize being with Nathan was going to be loads of fun,” she said.

Nathan said he thought Judy was beautiful from the first time he saw her when she came out of the piano practice room.

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“She had long, curly hair and a smile that I have always loved. I was impressed by her genuine character and sense of humor. I have never met a more non-pretentious person in all my years,” he said.

When asked what are some of most special times of their marriage, Judy says it is time spent with their children and grandchildren, including a recent family cruise she calls fantastic and renting a house in Savannah for the entire family for their 40th wedding anniversary.

“Another thing that has been extremely special has been receiving gifts from Nathan. For example, on our fifth anniversary we had a new baby, new house and not much money. Nathan found a card that read, ‘We may not have a barrel of money, but we sure have a barrel of fun!’Along with that he bought a Barrel of Monkeys game and replaced the plastic monkeys with five silver dollars since the modern fifth anniversary gift is silver,” she said.

Nathan agrees that fun is a centerpiece of their marriage.

“We live by the phrase, ‘Live well. Laugh often. Love much,’” he said.

As to what is truly important to their marriage, Nathan said being able to lean on each other is one of the most important aspects.

“The ability to trust each other without question. Also, the willingness to share the good as well as the bad with one another. The fabric of our marriage reflects times when we were strong and times when we had to depend on the strength of one another,” he said.

Nathan said they have shared many special times together, both joyful and sad.

“From the day of our wedding where we went through the

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ceremony twice because of my family arriving late, we have shared many special moments.I think the birth of our children stands out among some of the most memorable times,” he said. “We have been able to celebrate 44 years of a rich and rewarding life together.

Moments of celebrations of graduations and marriage along with moments of grieving through the loss of both sets of parents, we have experienced meaningful events together.”

Nathan, an ordained minister, moved to Canton in May 1982 to serve at Canton First Baptist Church as assistant pastor.

“We have talked frequently through the years about how we were accepted and loved by the people of Cherokee County and have been able to raise our family here,” Nathan said.

Judy says young couples have to make a commitment.

“Set aside places for the two of you to talk, really talk. Our favorite places have often been our front porch swing, which was made by Nathan and my Dad from an old hospital baby bed, and Nathan’s convertible,” she said.

Nathan’s advice is simple.

“I would share what was shared with me before we married. If I treat her like a queen, I get to be king,” he said.

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14 Young couple with small children make it all work Rand Bagwell and Stephanie Bagwell met in 2004 on a blind date and almost exactly two years later tied the knot.

Now, 12 years later the couple is going strong, raising a family of three beautiful boys, ages 9, 6, and 2 and enjoying their life as a family.

They met in what is most often not a successful way to begin a relationship, although it also worked for Prince Harry and Megan Markle.

“We were set up on a blind date by mutual friend and Cherokee native Misti Martin. We met on Nov. 12, 2004, we got engaged on Jan. 20, 2006 and married on Nov. 4, 2006,” Stephanie, who is now 39, recalls.

Rand, 40 years old and a Canton native, said that the first date set the stage for what quickly became a life-changing relationship.

“Stephanie later said she was surprised that I asked if I could call her for another date since I didn’t talk much. I told her it was hard to get a word in when her and Misti start talking,” Rand laughes.

Stephanie fell hard right away.

“Rand is the strong, silent type and has gorgeous blue eyes so I was reeled in pretty early on,” she said. “He has an amazing work ethic and a huge, kind and giving spirit.

As they got to know each other, the two found that their personalities complemented each other and Rand had many traits that attracted her immediately, Stephanie said. Their differences, as much as their similarities, helped define the relationship.

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15 “Rand and I have pretty different personalities and we figured out quickly that we balanced each other perfectly, quirks and all.” she said.

By the second date, the two were getting to know each other better, and they liked what they found.

“When we did start talking on our second date, it was immediately clear that Stephanie is a kind-hearted, smart, and genuine person. Those are all very attractive qualities in a person. Pair that with the aspect of a physical attraction and it makes for a great base to build a

relationship with someone,” Rand said.

Their differences also proved to balance them in a way that makes their relationship fun and easy, he said.

Both say their three sons are a highlight of their marriage.

“The births of our three sons are by far our greatest blessings.

We’ve had a number of great adventures as well from training for and running a half marathon together to pairing up to dance in the Service League of Cherokee County’s Dancing for the Children fundraiser.” Stephanie said. “I tend to rope us into all kinds of things and Rand is always there to support me and lend a hand.

Between the big adventures are the special everyday moments like watching our boys grow and seeing pieces of ourselves—good and bad-in each of them.”

Rand said the simple things are what he cherishes most.

“My favorite thing of all is simply doing things together no matter how simple or complex. Whether it is figuring out what to make for supper or to trying to make the best decisions as parents, I am happiest doing them with my wife and best friend.” he said.

Faith and humor is what keeps her marriage strong, Stephanie said.

“God knew what He was doing when He put us together. When one of us is weak the other is strong and we have each others’ back,” she said. “Bottomline, he’s my best friend, my biggest supporter and ‘the one,’”she said.

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16 Rand said their marriage is based on Christian faith.

“I had allowed myself to stray from attending Church regularly before we were together, and it became a very high priority as we started our family and still is today,” he said.

Both say spending quality time is a great way to keep the marriage strong.

“Money spent on babysitting is an investment in your marriage. It will not always be easy, and at times you will not even like each other, but it will always be worth it. Marriage and parenthood are the hardest and greatest things I have ever done,” Rand said.

Coming home each day is the best part of the day, Stephanie said.

“Know that your best friend is waiting there to celebrate your accomplishments or support you on the bad days. Nothing beats the feeling of walking in the door knowing you are able to let your guard down and can honestly vent or laugh about the day you’ve had, Stephanie said. “If you choose to and are lucky enough to be blessed with children it just gets better.” n

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770.720.9533 • www.smbybailey.com Water • Fire • Mold • Storm Classes:

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Digital Photography

by Kim Bates Watercolor Classes

by Gary Curtis Meditation on Twin Hearts

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Gallery Shows:

Cherokee Photography Club Show Stairwell Showcase

Weaving

by Jane Wimmer

Exploring Painting through Watercolor

by Anita Huddlestun

Tiffany A. Haynes

Find Your Hand Lettering Style Workshop

by Madison Beaulieu

Potter’s Wheel & Fun Handbuilding

by Barbara Murphy

Intro to Clay Sculpture: Part I

by Julie Nunn

Woodstock, GA 30188

Watercolor Basics Workshop

by Dylan Pierce

Oil & Acrylic Painting

by Linda Maphet

Oil Painting from Photographs

by Kristina Laurendi Havens

8855 South Main Street

Abstract Painting: Focus on Composition

by Juanita Bellavance

Heart of a Champion Art Show

by Steven Lester January 5 - 26 Reception: Saturday, January 13 ~ 2-4PM

Teen Drawing

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Workshops:

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To sign up for classes call 770-704-6244 or e-mail info@cherokeearts.org. Include name and phone number.

Check our website for dates, times and fees.

94 North Street | Canton, GA 30114

WWW.CHEROKEEARTS.ORG

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Thanks Cherokee County for your votes for our annual Best of Cherokee! Your votes let us know your favorite spots in the county. We hope you enjoy reading this section and get ideas on where you can go eat, be entertained and more for 2018.

Compiled by Cherokee Life Staff Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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Best Fine Dining

Century House Tavern 125 E. Main St., Woodstock 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com When it comes to fine dining, service takes the lead, which is why it’s no surprise that Century House Tavern in downtown Woodstock has won the title of Best Fine Dining for the fourth year in a row.

A lunch and dinner menu full of class and homage to Southern taste, this Cherokee gem has all the potential for a memorable night out with family, friends and lovers.

“Our chef is truly the heart and soul of what we do here,” manager Ross Coleman said. “We care about every experience that every single guest has.”

What sets them apart from the rest is the consistency to dedicated service, Coleman said. Items are made fresh every day and customers can have their expectations met at the tavern unfailingly.

“Every restaurant, there’s three elements: the environment, the service and the cuisine,” he said. “And we are very fortunate to have quite simply all three of those elements working in a great harmony here. We take a great deal of pride in what we do every day. That’s pretty much the fourth element that every restaurant strives to attain but we do it very well.”

At Century House Tavern, don’t expect to be treated like royalty, but like family.

“I’ve always trained people, throughout my 30 years (of experience) is, to deliver and to provide a level of hospitality and service like you’re taking care of your family,” she said. “And that’s truly what it’s all about.”

Their reputation as an establishment dedicated to the finest cuisine and service they can provide Chef Daniel Porubiansky. speaks for itself, Coleman said. But everyone can expect to be treated the same.

“It’s not necessarily that we’re fine dining in any regard, it’s just the service that we provide, it emulates the high quality execution that our chef is providing,” he said.

Best Burger

Five Guys 1359 Riverstone Parkway, Canton 770-479-1128 www.fiveguys.com Five Guys is known around the globe for its fantastic, handmade burgers and fresh-cut fries. This year, Cherokee County residents echoed the company’s many accolades and voted the chain best burger.

The diner-style burger joint opened its first location in Arlington, Virginia in 1986 and quickly expanded, with nearly 1,500 locations across the U.S., Canada, U.K., Europe and the Middle East.

The restaurant’s default double-patty burger and sometimes just an order of fries brings repeat customers to the Canton location.

“We strive to give our customers the best experience that they can have,” General Manager Darnisha Bates said. “We want them to come back. We want them to get the best burger with fresh condiments and fresh beef on a daily basis. That’s something that we strive for.”

Five Guys signatures include free peanuts while you wait for your order, loads of free burger toppings and handspun milkshakes.

Bates said, on top of the food, a friendly staff who love their job is the key to creating the best burger experience. The county’s vote shows the team at Five Guys in Canton is doing its job, and Bates said the whole staff looks forward to serving Cherokee residents every day, now with a new skip in their step.

“We’re ecstatic about the vote,” she said. “Thank you for voting us best burger.”

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20 Best Boutique

Indigo & Oak 145 W. Main St., Suite 104, Canton 470-863-5281 indigoandoak.com Whether it’s finding the perfect outfit, accessory, home décor or furniture, Indigo & Oak is the best downtown Canton destination for snagging an original find, which is why it’s been named Best Boutique.

Step inside for an eclectic collection of clothing for women of all ages, fashion forward accessories, one-of-a-kind gifts and custom-made furniture pieces.

Co-owner of Indigo & Oak Denise Case said she was proud to receive the honor of being voted Best Boutique and believed the shop’s affordability keeps customers coming back for more.

“We have a lot of cute clothing and we give a variety of not just clothing, but also home décor and gifts, so it’s a little bit like a one-stop shopping experience,” she said.

The range of styles—from boho-chic to rustic—outpaces boutiques who limit themselves to college women preferences, Case said. At her boutique, there’s a little bit of everything for everyone.

“We have women here shopping who are 70, but also catering to the younger crowd. But I think it’s just, offers something to every-

body,” she said. “Not just the younger crowd, or the older crowd but maybe the ones that are not into clothes shopping that, you know. love home décor or need a gift for somebody.”

After moving to East Main Street in downtown Canton after two years on North Street, Case said business couldn’t be better. While regular customers continue to stop by, she said she’s seen more new faces taking a stroll Indigo and Oak owner Denise Case. around town and popping into the shop.

“On North Street, people came for us because they knew we were there,” she said. “Here we have a lot of people just stumbling in because they’re either eating at Queenies or Goin’ Coastal, or people just, they walk on this side.”

Best Dessert

Smallcakes 2035 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 678-324-1910 www.smallcakescupcakery.com Smallcakes in Woodstock offers a sweet treat for anyone with something to celebrate, or those just looking for a snack, making it an easy choice for Best Dessert.

The bakery and creamery makes all of its creations from scratch, said Melissa Dean, franchise owner at the Woodstock location. Smallcakes has 15 different cupcake flavors every day, switching out depending on the season. The signature flavor is its red velvet cupcake.

Another popular choice, the Ferrero Rocher cupcake is a sweet chocolate treat, with a chocolate cake topped with icing and the crunchy chocolate candy.

Popular ice cream flavors combine ice cream with cookies or cake for a creamy texture, including peanut butter cup, mint chocolate chip and cookies and cream. The red velvet ice cream cup offers a cream cheese ice cream sprinkled with red velvet cake crumbles.

In addition to cupcakes and ice cream, Smallcakes offers cupcake milkshakes, brownies, cookies and cake pops for those with a sweet tooth. They also can bake custom cakes for any special event.

“We’re so thankful and we’re ecstatic. We’ve been doing business for five years and have been really blessed by the community,” Dean said. “We strive to have that good customer service when you come in to the store, we make it a good experience all around.”

Dean said that the taste of the cakes is what keeps people coming back.

“It’s just different from anything else you’ve ever tried,” she said.

Smallcakes also works actively with the community, donating baked goods to schools, MUST Ministries and other charities.

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Cherokee Life | January/February 2018

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Best Place to Spend the Day Outdoors Etowah River Park 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton

Nestled on more than 80 acres in the Canton-Cherokee Industrial Park, the newest park in the city is ready for play.

Etowah River Park, on Brown Industrial Drive, was chosen Best Place to Spend the Day Outdoors by Cherokee Life magazine readers.

We are very pleased with the park,” said Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood. “Recreation is not just about playing all of the time. It is really about economic development because people want to come and live where there are a lot of recreational opportunities. People like to live here and bring their businesses here because we have a place for their families to go.”

Etowah River Park features a playground, an open-air amphitheater, a bridge over the river that leads to walking trails and an open field that can be subdivided depending on the need. Because of issues with the land being in the floodplain, there are no baseball fields.

“It is a really nice park, and because it is so large, we can host multiple activities and events,” said Tom Gilliam, Canton parks and recreation director.

The much-anticipated city park, which opened in July 2015, was in the making for many years, with planning for the active park starting around 2008. Etowah River Park wass funded by Canton’s share of the voter-approved $90 million park bond, and the city also contributed more than $700,000 for the project.

Teams from Cherokee Youth Football Association, Cherokee Soccer

Association and the Canton YMCA have utilized the fields.

Dogs also are permitted in Etowah River Park, but they have to be on a leash and owners have to clean up after them.

A new trail connecting Etowah River and Heritage Parks is complete and being used extensively by walkers, joggers and families looking to enjoy the warmer weather.

There is also a landing that leads into the river for kayaks and canoes.

The park is used extensively for festivals, events and 5K races.

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22 Best Customer Service

community events.

“We take a lot of intention and pride in serving our customer and delivering a customer experience that is true to our brand and our brand values,” CEO and Co-founder Spencer Nix said. “That’s why we started this company – it’s about the customer experience. It’s about more than just the beer that’s in your hand.”

The idea for the business started when Nix and brewmaster and co-founder Nick Downs began homebrewing and found that their beers were attracting taste-testers from all over the Southeast.

Since the beginning, the company’s focus on the experience and community surrounding the beer that it makes has assured its spot in the hearts of Woodstock residents.

“When we drink, we gather in moments around drinking, whether it’s celebrating a birthday, celebrating the end of a hard week or celebrating an anniversary,” Nix said. “All those moments are special, and they’re an honor to host. I’m glad to see that the public recognizes the hard work and investment that we’ve put into delivering that.”

The brewery announced a new location in October, to open in spring 2018, which will serve as a “backyard hangout” for Woodstock. The Elm Street location will house a second brew system for small-batch, experimental brews and will be the site of more community events. The main location now hosts events, ranging from trivia to food truck appearances, every week.

Reformation Brewery 500 Arnold Mill Way, Woodstock 678-341-0828 reformationbrewery.com Reformation Brewery was established in 2013 and offers customers unique, trend-averse brews paired with an excellent customer experience, making it one of the most popular hangouts in downtown Woodstock.

The brewery, located off Arnold Mill Road, invites visitors in to hang out and come together over a well-made beer and ensures fulfillment of the full customer experience from in-person visits to

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Cherokee Life | January/February 2018

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Best BBQ

Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q 1600 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-9067 williamsonbros.com

Cherokee County residents have crowned a new champion for smoky, tender pork, chicken and beef, and little is left to the imagination upon entry into the Canton location.

Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q off Marietta Highway offers a rustic, cabin-like restaurant atmosphere with open-pit barbecue and a selection of homemade pies displayed proudly adjacent the dining area.

The Williamson brothers’ story started with Larry and Danny Williamson’s first location in Marietta in 1990, but Cherokee residents have packed the Canton barbecue stop since its opening.

The secret to the sandwiches, ribs and other barbecue specialties that keep customers coming back is the special care and cooking methods in preparing the meats.

“We cook our meat fresh several times a day,” said Larry Williamson, one of three co-owners of Williamson Bros. “It’s cooked over hickory wood for 8-9 hours. It’s always fresh, and it sells out.”

The slow-cooked meats are prepared in an open pit visible from the entrance after two steps in the door.

“You go to a lot of barbecue places, and they don’t look like this,” said Reyes Morales, co-owner and operator of the Canton location. “We’re the only ones with the open pit.”

The local smokehouse offers southern comforts like corn fritters, onion rings, hush puppies and mac ‘n’ cheese and provides family deals and catering for a variety of events.

“It’s really overwhelming to have been here as long as we have and have the great citizens of Cherokee County associate us with them,” Williamson said.

Morales said barbecue is a southern tradition with a family feel, and it’s only natural that the restaurant exudes that feeling to its customers.

“I think we have hospitality,” he said. “We welcome [everyone], and we treat them like family.”

Best Festival

Riverfest — Etowah River Park 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton www.serviceleague.net The 33rd annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival turned over a new leaf and moved to a new location for the first time since its inception.

But that didn’t stop the festival hosted by the Service League of Cherokee County from taking the honor of being chosen the best festival by Cherokee Life readers.

Riverfest is still on the banks of the river at Etowah River Park.

The historic juried show and arts and crafts festival is the fourth weekend of September each year and features about 250 art and food vendors and entertainers.

The family-friendly event offers live music and dancing all weekend, as well as a children’s area.

The proceeds from the festival go toward the Service League’s community projects.

The festival is open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is a $5 donation for adults

and children 11 years or older, and free for children 10 years old and younger.

“After 32 wonderful years at Boling Park, we have moved because the city of Canton has built a beautiful new park at Etowah River Park,” Service League Riverfest chair Hillary Hall said. “Because of the growth and popularity of the show, and because it’s on the Etowah River, it was the perfect place to go.”

Riverfest’s new location will allow it to be bigger than ever, said Susan Ikerd, Service League publicity chair.

“Riverfest has really become a tradition for a lot of people to kick off the fall season,” Hall said.

The juried arts show features handmade work from artisans ranging from paintings, pottery, glassware, jewelry, clothing and more. In addition to arts and crafts, food vendors sell their wares and participate in the juried show..

Children attending the event can enjoy a train, ponies, inflatables, a bungee jump and carnival games. A dunk tank will feature familiar faces from the community, including school administrators and coaches and local business owners.

January/February 2018 | Cherokee Life

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24 Best Salon & Spa

Studio 5 Salon & Spa 136 Archer St., Canton 770-345-5000 studio5salon.org Studio 5 Salon & Spa might have a new location but their values and character remain the same, which is why they’ve rightfully earned the title of Best Salon and Spa once again.

Most customers come for stylist coloring, the balayage trend and fashion-forward cuts, according to owner Jen Davo, but they stay for the family. The salon that offers hair extensions, blowouts, trims, updos and more “loves people,” she said.

“We set ourselves apart from everyone because we are very family-oriented,” she said. “Everyone feels like home when they come in here.”

Regulars will find an added event space upstairs, bridal suite, barber shop and future brow bar at the salon’s new Archer Street location, Davo said.

“It was crazy, moving 15 people from one space to another space and then we already added two people and we’re fixing to add a third,” she said.

But the team continues to work together, playing off one another’s talents and striving for the best service for clients.

Davo said there’s no shame in helping out another stylist or asking for assistance to give their customers exactly what they need.

“If you feel like you don’t know how to do it, then the other people, they’ll help you,” she said. “And I feel like a lot of places won’t do that because they’re about trying to portray themselves as imperfect.”

Even the stylists who rent out space from Davo in her salon are treated like family members working toward the same goal together.

“We do have some people who booth rent, but we’re still team focused,” she said. “That’s the most important thing. Because even if they’re individuals, everyone’s having an impact on your reputation.”

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Cherokee Life | January/February 2018

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Best Jeweler

Key’s Jewelry 230 E. Main St., Canton 770-479-4834 keysjewelry.com Key’s Jewelry, the oldest jewelry store in Cherokee County, has been a fixture for 65 years in historic downtown Canton and continues to be a popular shopping destination for that perfect piece of jewelry.

The store is now owned by Doug Key and wife Judy. It was opened on Dec. 1, 1951, and has been in its present location since 1957.

Started by Doug’s grandparents, Vernie and Ruby Key, the jewelry store took over the third floor of what was formerly known as the Galt building when it first opened its doors.

The business started with one jewelry showcase and repair services for watches and clocks. Now, Key’s Jewelry carries an extensive line of gold and platinum, wedding bands, engagement rings, necklaces, pendants and a wide assortment of gift items, Doug Key said.

In the mid ‘50s, Vernie Key moved into a shop on the ground floor of the same building where he first opened. In 1956, a nearby building that formerly held a bank became available. The Keys bought the building and the rest is history.

Third-generation owner, Doug Key came into the store right after graduating from Cherokee High School in June 1974, and has worked at Key’s Jewelry ever since.

“When I came in, I was so young that I couldn’t think about anything past the next day.

I was surprised a couple years ago when I found out I had been in the store longer than my father or my grandfather had,” Doug Key said.

Doug Key attributed the store’s success to their loyal customers.

“We try to build relationships, thank you cards, birthday cards, anniversary cards, things to stay in touch with our customers,” he said.

“We try to reach out and maintain the great customers that we have, but word of mouth advertising is tremendous because we have people that come in every week that say they heard from a friend about us.”

The jewelry store offers brands such as Carla, Benchmark, Michou, Romance Bridal, Ammolite by Korite, and Lafonn Everlasting Desire.

“We try to buy special lines, first of all that we love, because if we don’t love it we’re not going to try to sell it,” he said.

The store is at 230 East Main St. will also have Santa and Mrs. Claus for a photo session where shoppers can bring their cameras from 1 to 3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Key’s Jewelry at 770-479-4834.

Doug Key thanked the residents for their loyal support for generations.

“We know without you we are nothing and we strive to build those relationships and deliver more than they expect,” he said of his customers.

Judy and Doug Key.

Best Breakfast

J. Christopher’s 315 Chambers St., Woodstock 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com

The strawberry waffle, topped with powdered sugar, offers a sweet breakfast at J. Christopher’s.

From pancakes, omelets and skillets to salads and sandwiches, there’s something for everyone at J. Christopher’s. The popular breakfast and brunch spot in downtown Woodstock was voted the second year in a row Best Breakfast for Cherokee Life Magazine.

“We love our customers, our regulars. Everyone is proud of the place they work at serving good hot food with good service,” said Sam Shmurduq, district manager of the Woodstock location.

For those with a sweet tooth, strawberry crepes, cinnamon rolls and “chocolate chipcakes” offer plenty of sugar to start the day. Healthier menu items include a turkey sausage platter,

egg whites and a breakfast parfait with low-fat yogurt.

J. Christopher’s skillets offer something savory. Meat, vegetables and cheeses are cooked with oven-roasted potatoes topped with two sunny-up eggs in combinations including bacon and spinach, turkey and avocado and ham with mushrooms.

One of the favorites from customers is the huevos avocado, an English muffin with sour cream, avocado, pico de gallo, cheese and two poached eggs along with black beans, said assistant manager Stephanie Seliski. It’s also a personal favorite of hers.

“We focus on providing great customer service and the best quality food,” Seliski said.

“We’re excited we were chosen another year and we look forward to providing another great year of great food and service.”

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26 Best Golf Course

Bridgemill 1190 Bridge Mill Ave., Canton 770-345-5500 www.bridgemillathleticclub.com/golf Cherokee County’s golfing enthusiasts don’t need to travel far when looking to play 18 holes on one of the state’s nicest courses.

The rolling hills and immaculate greens of BridgeMill’s par-72 course have been a staple of the local golfing community since the late ’90s and has been voted the best place to play golf in the county.

The course opened in 1998 with the help of legendary course designer Desmond Muirhead, and the semi-private club boasts more than 260 members. Most of them have been around since the very beginning, Director of Golf Jon Hough says.

“There’s a great history of folks who have seen the club develop through the years,” Hough said. “But the course is in such great condition we get a lot of the public players who call this home even though they aren’t members.”

Pros at the shop say the greens are the best they’ve ever been and because the course is so well-maintained, BridgeMill continuously draws golfers from all over the metro Atlanta area.

“It’s in outstanding condition and the locals say the course is the best it’s ever been,” Hough said.

In terms of conditioning, BridgeMill has put a lot of work into their course over the last year, re-sodding huge areas of fairway and rebuilding all of its sand bunkers.

While many courses struggled this year with the heat of the summer and the ongoing drought, BridgeMill’s bent grass greens remain impeccable.

Members get first dibs on tee times, but the course is open to the public and those looking to play a round can schedule a time a week in advance. Lessons are available for golfers of all skill levels and the pro shop is open each day from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m.

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Best Place to Take Kids Canyons Burger Co. 335 Chambers St., Woodstock 678-494-8868 canyonslife.com

Father and son duo Mark and Sonny Crumpton know a thing or two about family after living in Woodstock for nearly 30 years and keeping their 60-year tradition of working in retail alive.

It comes as no surprise that their family creation, Canyons Burger Co., was elected Best Place to Take Kids for its kid-friendly menu, accommodating facility and familial atmosphere. Expect great deals on kid’s meals, fun snacks including shakes, Dippin’ Dots ice cream and booster seats, high chairs and changing stations to accommodate any parent and child.

“Believe it or not, it’s our marketing strategy as it relates to families and kids and to be kid friendly,” Sonny Crumpton said. “And a couple things we do is for example, kid’s eat for half-priced Monday, kids in uniform eat for free with an adult purchase. We’ve been doing that for 10 years now.”

With their 10-year anniversary approaching in February, the Crumpton’s plan to keep their family-centered approach on track with fundraisers for school and sports teams. All children wearing uniforms—from major sports to band—are eligible for a free meal seven days a week at Canyons in order to promote an active lifestyle, Sonny Crompton said.

As a Woodstock family, Sonny Crumpton said they were comfort-

able continuing the philosophy of family-oriented in their business. He said they were appreciative of the award and thankful for those who voted for them.

“We thought the community could use a kid-friendly, a family-friendly environment from a longevity perspective,” he said. “It’s a great strategy and marketing opportunity for us.” n

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28 [HIGHLIGHTS] A CLOSER LOOK AT EVENTS HAPPENING IN COBB DURING JANUARY & FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 27

REINHARDT UNIVERSITY WINDS

The Reinhardt University Winds, now under the direction of Dr. Daniel Kirk will hold a concert Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle in Waleska. With approximately 50 members, their sound is impressive and inspiring. With repertoire varying from classic Sousa marches to Broadway hits, these ensembles offer something for everyone to love. Tickets are $12.50. For tickets and more visit www.reinhardt.edu.

JANUARY 19

JANUARY 19

Lolek’s Storytellers presents “Nunsense the Musical” at the Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street starting Jan. 19. The show runs Jan. 20 and 21 and the following weekend Jan. 26, 27 and 28. Five nuns decide to put on a variety show to help raise funds to bury their deceased sisters who died due to unforeseen circumstances. This hilarious show is a must see. For more information visit www.loleksstorytellers.com.

A bi-weekly coffee gathering designed to bring together entrepreneurs and the local Cherokee County towards a community of entrepreneurship starts at The Circuit on the Woodstock campus of Chattahoochee Technical College Jan. 17 at 9 a.m. The Circuit is located at 1 Innovation Way. One Million Cups is free and open to the public, sponsored by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development.

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JANUARY 9

DOC SEVERINSEN’S TRUMPET KINGS

Doc Severinsen is a Grammy Award-winning trumpeter known both for his time leading the famous Tonight Show with Johnny Carson band (and his notoriously flashy outfits) as well as his own prolific recording and touring.

Joined by trumpeter virtuoso Byron Stripling and his quartet, Severinsen performs a tribute concert entitled Trumpet Kings, celebrating the greatest jazz trumpeters of the 20th century Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Flint Hall at the Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle in Waleska. Tickets are $50-55 for adults, $45-50 for seniors and $20-25 for children.

For tickets and more visit www.reinhardt.edu.

FEBRUARY 16

JANURARY 18

ARBOR DAY

ALEX GUTHRIE CONCERT

The Canton Tree Commission celebrates Arbor Day on the third Friday in February. This year, on Friday, February 16, members of the commission are inviting local residents to come out and commemorate a day set aside to honor the importance of trees in the ecosystem. The city’s Arbor Day celebration will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 at Cannon Park in downtown Canton. The event will feature free giveaway tree seedlings to anyone who wants to plant them. A variety of plants, shrubs and trees will also be for sale, all of which will be provided by a local nursery. Proceeds from the plant sale will go towards projects slated to beautify the City of Canton.

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Alex Guthrie and his band are performing at Madlife Stage and Studio, 8722 Main Street in Woodstock, Jan. 18 at 7:30 p.m. Blending soulful vocals, story-rich lyrics, and the organic synergy of the 70’s southern blues bands, The Alex Guthrie Band gives you some of the most real music of the age. Tickets are $15 to $25. To purchase or for more information, visit www.madlifestageandstudios.com.

Cherokee Life | January/February 2018

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JANUARY 23

HOTLANTA DIXIELAND JAZZ

Hotlanta Dixie Jazz BandHotlanta sets your feet firmly on Bourbon Street in Old New Orleans Jan. 23 at the Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle in Waleska at 7:30 p.m.. You’ll experience every bit of the joy, energy, and humor of that early American Jazz called Dixieland. Songs from Fats Waller, Hoagy Carmichael, Louie Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, plus many old favorites like “Sweet Georgia Brown,” “Royal Garden Blues,” “South,” “Hard Hearted Hannah,” and “When The Saints Go Marchin’ In” are all part of Hotlanta’s musical treat. Hotlanta concerts aim to entertain. Their audiences become part of the concert when they do audience requests, submitted in writing during intermission. These requests are then performed during the second half of the concert. Audiences always have a great time with this popular Hotlanta feature. Tickets are $25 to $30 for adults, $20 to $25 for seniors and $5 to $10 for children.

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5 HAWKS RIDGE GOLF. At the Cherokee County Educational Foundation’s 2017 golf classic local golfers teed up for a good cause on Oct. 30. 1. From left, Chris Gillis, Ramsey Midkiff, Mike Liquori, Mark Szymanski and Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriquez. 2. From left, Candler Howell, Richie Carnes, Larry Ribley and Daniel Dempsey. 3.

Colleen Blackwell and Mayor Donnie Henriquez. 4. From left, Bob Breingan, Greg Mikszan, Jeff Chanelle, Harold King and Mar Perlotto. 5. From left, Nina Brante, Amanda Arnold and Kathy Winiarczyk. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

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Snow and ice blanket the roads in Lake Arrowhead located in northern Cherokee County in early December. Many residents were unable to leave thier homes that weekend because of treacherous road conditions, which also caused wide power outages and several school district closings. But it sure made for great photos. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL // January/February 2018 | Cherokee Life

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32 Cut the chaos and stay organized in the New Year Want to be better organized this year? From making and keeping appointments, to completing your to-do list, there’s no reason to get overwhelmed. Try these tips and tools for a more organized 2018, no matter how much chaos is thrown at you.

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• Personalize it. The easiest way to stay organized is by having a planning system that reflects your personality. Watch yourself surpass your goals by using tools that fit your style, like color-coding, symbols or stickers. Remember that not all personalization has to be for efficiency purposes. Patterned tape, fun designs and motivating quotes can be a great way to keep you committed and make your planner a reflection of yourself.

• Double up. The best way to stay on top of important items is to double up -- use digital technology in tandem with traditional paper to capture important notes, dates and more.

Keep each book club meeting in your phone, but write down the actual books, the members’ names and your thoughts in your planner.

Paper-based planning can help keep you on track and allows you to easily reflect on your successes throughout the year.

Check out the planners and calendars from AT-A-GLANCE. Their options make it easy to organize your life by day, week or month.

Be sure to mark each appointment and every coffee date in the daily section of your planner, while designating bigger events in your life, like weddings, travel or home renovation projects, in the monthly section as well.

• Celebrate successes. Take time to review your progress and see what you have accomplished. It will give you a sense of control and completion and can motivate you to keep going.

Celebrate successes as they occur, but don’t get disheartened if something on your to-do list carries over to the next day, week or month. Staying motivated will help you be more productive and be a great reminder of how well your system is working!

• Check it off. There is nothing more satisfying than getting important things done -- except when you physically cross it off your list. Be sure to give yourself some sort of visual satisfaction for completed tasks. This should be done on both your digitized and paper-based to-do lists.

• Categorize. Everyone has things that must get done to keep life running smoothly, as well as a list of what they would like to get done in their spare time. Categorize your lists so you can prioritize the must-do’s first, and then, when you’ve crossed out your urgent tasks, tackle those other to-dos. Categorizing will help you identify your busy times -- as well as some extra space in your schedule -- so you can plan accordingly.

More organization inspiration and planning item ideas can be found at life.ataglance.com.

With some new habits, you can stay organized throughout 2018 and watch it do wonders for your personal and professional life.

— StatePoint

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45

[REFLECTIONS]

By Carla Barnes

T

hings that are 45.

The number of words in the First Amendment. Yes, I counted.

The speed limit that is posted when you get closer into town. Your cue to slow it down.

The number of revolutions per minute (RPM) required to play a vintage 45 record. Remember those?

And me.

This year, I hit what I consider to be my middle.

This is strictly my own editorial opinion of course, having weighed the life expectancy within my genealogical lineage, and that superstitious, gut feeling one can feign to have about these things.

Based on my review of similar blogs, columns, or manifestos, on the subject of being in the middle my reflections are pretty typical when I read through others’ experiences and approaches to this sensitive topic.

It’s funny, but like everyone else, this year has been the year that I have rediscovered that everything from that magical decade that stretches between the 1980s to the 1990s is somehow more sweet and precious to me. From friends who knew me before I jumped into the deep end of the pool, to the music that reminds me of the girl with giant hair and purple eye shadow singing lyrics I still don’t understand.

I remember her, she is the same girl that picked up the Duran Duran Greatest Hits CD on this past Black Friday, her birthday, and she played it over and over again on the drive to meet up with a friend in Gainesville, so she could eat breakfast with and hug the neck of her college bestie, and catch up on everything.

I say it often to those closest to me that I always try to be exactly where (and with whom) I want to be with. This living in the moment attitude has definitely given way to some incredible times with incredible people.

As I think about the concept of RPM another birthday in 1983 comes to mind. I can still remember standing at my Dad’s record player that looked more like a large piece of luggage

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with a speaker in the side. We cranked the knob to the loudest it would go, and we played over and over again my new record – Eddy Grant’s “Electric Avenue.”

And then of course, like any kid would do, we changed the speed setting so we could hear Eddy in a Chipmunk-esque delivery and laugh.

We spend a lifetime trying to do things faster.

Inventions are pursued all in an effort to improve or cut down the time, but yet here we are with no more time on our hands than previous generations.

Another birthday gift, was one of my all-time favorite chic movies – “Enchanted April.” I actually had to check the date on this film – 1992 – as I was writing this column. There are too many things to say about this movie, but I will say that its universal theme that we can grow to resemble love and beauty if we spend enough time in it – is absolutely true.

And of course what birthday would be complete without a new book. At least my birthdays anyway. This time featured in my stack – a compilation of thoughts on writing by the best of best writers themselves. Authored by Jon Winokur, the book, “W.O.W.: Writers On Writing,” offers bite size thoughts for those of us with short attention spans.

In the section, “Motives and Aspirations,” the author quotes Ernest Hemingway.

“A writer’s problem does not change. He himself changes and the world he lives in changes but his problem remains the same.

It is always how to write truly and having found what is true, to project it in such a way that it becomes part of the experience of the person who reads it.”

I wish there was a way to tie in the number 45 in a clever way to wrap all of these thoughts into a neat package for you. But if you think in terms of age being like an elevator in the skyscraper of life, and say that elevator was the height of the Empire State Building in New York which stands at 102 floors you could borrow some wisdom from another 1980s icon Prince and his anthem, “Let’s Go Crazy.”

“And if the de-elevator tries to bring you down, Go crazy, punch a higher floor.”

Well, at least you got friends. Here’s to you and the ride in 2018. n

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12/19/2017 3:23:14 PM

36 WE CAN HELP YOU SURVIVE A HEART ATTACK AND AVOID ANOTHER ONE.

As a heart patient at Northside Hospital Cherokee, you’ll have your own team of board certified cardiologists, nurses and expert staff to help you get through a heart problem. You’ll also have a team to teach you healthy habits, so that your heart will keep getting stronger even after you leave. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart.

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