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“Although we are viewed as an Irish pub, we make our environment and menu very family friendly,” he said. “We are very community oriented and we are grateful to the community for supporting us as a local independent owned small business and helping us out in all our endeavors.” Donovan’s Irish Cobbler also has the best wings in town, Donovan said, adding that their diverse menu and specials are changed frequently to “keep things interesting.” “We also go through tons of cheese sauce. We make it in large quantities which includes Wisconsin sharp cheddar and cream,” he said. “Some of our other popular items are fish and chips, mac and cheese, Shepherd’s pie and of course the Donovan’s Horse Shoe. A horse shoe is Texas toast, with your choice of meat, topped with fries and the signature cheese sauce, Donovan said. With St. Patrick’s Day being Donovan’s Irish Pub’s busiest day of the year, Donovan said he and the staff
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serve customers in the fastest and most efficient way possible. “To do that we feature a limited menu for that day keeping all of the Irish favorites; fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie, Irish flag potato soup, and corned beef and cabbage,” he said. For customers hoping to provide some tasty Irish catering, Donovan’s is just the place. “Our catering is a relatively new endeavor, we are quite fortunate our kitchen manager, Mike Stokes, can create just about anything from simple box lunches for school teachers or car dealerships to elegant dinners for weddings and other special events,” Donovan said. Donovan’s also hosts special events for every day of the week from Monday sports night BOGO wings and Thursday Ladies Night to live music on the weekends. “We have a very loyal customer base mainly because of our staff. They have unique and interesting personalities, and it is difficult to describe, but out of this we have a running joke that has also become one of our best marketing outlets and that would be one of our slogans ‘I know Brandon,’” Donovan said. “We don’t think that special things every night is our main driver when our staff has such personality, but it doesn’t hurt either. So come on by and get to know Brandon and all of our staff.” Oppositte page: Jacob Donovan of Donovan’s Irish Cobbler restaurant. Hand beer-battered cod fish lightly fried until hot and flaky on the inside, crispy and golden on the outside. Served with fries and tartar sauce.
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[HOME]
Home Reno
3 updated ranch-style homes in Cherokee
written by Rebecca Johnston photography submitted and by Kathryn Ingall
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istoric homes can have many lives, evolving to fit the needs of the owners through thoughtful renovations. Canton City Councilman Bill Grant and Jeff Brown make their home in Canton’s historic district just off East Main St., where they have renovated a turn of the century cottage turned mid-century ranch into the perfect contemporary home to reflect their active lifestyle and love of entertaining.
The original portion of the house was built in 1904 by the Bell family and was the home of Charlie Bell and his family. Dr. Charles Johnston, possibly Canton’s first dentist, bought the home from the Bell family, Grant said. The original structure was a cottage style home. A mid-century modern ranch addition was added in the late’50s, including the gunite pool, by Johnston. “I purchased the home in 1997 from only the third owners, the Prescott family, and did some aesthetic updates,” Grant said. “In 2004, I did a complete renovation to soften the obvious ranch qualities and added more contemporary elements while maintaining and restoring many of the historical features.” The celebrated cook added a large, state-of-the-art kitchen to accommodate his enthusiasm for cooking. Countertops and showers throughout the home were custom fabricated from one slab mined at the Georgia Marble quarry in Tate, and Grant designed a lot of the custom furniture and fixtures in the newly remodeled version. Grant said living in an historic home certainly has its charm. “You can’t buy or create the same character in new construction, and you can’t buy history. Older homes have stories to tell and new ones to be added,” Grant said. “It’s great living in a home where you can add to the historic narrative and really experience a sense of place.” Grant said in an interesting twist, he now owns the Johnston’s former home where he had his first dentist chair and the office building in downtown Canton where he later moved his practice, the Galt Building.
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In addition to custom furniture, Grant is a collector of some of the finest mid-century modern designers. “I tried to add more contemporary features that reflected our style while, at the same time, maintaining the warmth and comfort of a Mid-Century Modern interior. For years, I have collected Mid-Century Modern furniture and artifacts from designers such as Eames, George Nelson, Florence Knoll and others, so One Britt became the perfect backdrop for this collection,” he said. With the addition of some contemporary elements and finishes, Grant and Brown integrated more modern pieces into the mix for an eclectic style that feels retro modern, yet warm and inviting. He points to the kitchen as his favorite room in the house. “I designed the kitchen to mirror the footprint of our other favorite feature, the Side Porch. It is the exact same size and sits parallel to the porch,” Grant said. “I designed the kitchen around my Viking range which features a window behind it that looks out over a natural ravine. I can cook and watch birds, deer and other wildlife.” The rest of the kitchen has windows all around, so you really get a sense of the outdoors, he said. “The Side Porch is peaceful and relaxing, and we spend a lot of time enjoying it except in the coldest part of winter. We eat a lot of meals there and have outdoor speakers for music. The house sits about 100 yards off of E. Main Street and is surrounded by natural woods, so the property feels like a private oasis, especially when the trees are covered in foliage,” Grant said in extolling the virtues of the property. Grant said turning the house into the perfect home has been filled with rewards for the two homeowners. And while he and Brown love to travel, there is no place like home. “I was able to create a comfortable environment that reflects our interests, such as cooking, entertaining, etc. I travel a lot for work, and Jeff and I travel as much as possible for pleasure,” he said. “While we love seeing the world and other cultures, it’s always wonderful to return to Canton and home to One Britt; it’s like an old friend that always welcomes with open arms. The home has a very special aura and celebrates life at its best. Those qualities are irreplaceable.”
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2017
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F
rom the first moment they stepped into the iconic mid-century brick ranch at the corner of Jeannette Street and East Main in the Canton historic district, Joe and Kelli Sellers knew they were home. Built in 1952 by Mary and John Sparks, with its wide double-hung picture window gracing the front, and the sweeping front lawn, the home has long been loved by passers-by. After purchasing the home in 2013, Kelli and Joe did much of the renovation work themselves, which was clearly a labor of love. Using a light touch, and changing or improving only what they had to, the house retains its charms while serving as the hub for a busy family with two teens. Updates to the 2,750-square-foot three bedroom, two bath home included removing a wall and remodeling the kitchen, installing new lighting and plumbing fixtures as well as electrical and HVAC systems. The Sellers remodeled one bath while leaving one just like it was in 1952. Hardwood floors were refinished and they kept many original features, including the fireplaces. During the renovation work, the couple uncovered pine floors in the kitchen and pine-paneled family room under layers of cork tile, linoleum and carpet. The beautiful pine floors gleam after refinishing. In the kitchen, the retro design of the new appliances gives the feel of a 1950s home with an updated look. Granite countertops set off the original cabinetry, which the couple painted a cheerful white. The window treatments are fresh takes on ’50s style cafÊ curtains in a vintage print that takes visitors back in time. The kitchen is painted an appealing grey, Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore.
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“I didn’t want it to be too formal; we wanted it to be grandma’s house, but up-to-date,” Kelli said. Joe said the family looked for years for a one level ranch brick home with a basement before Kelli found what they plan as their forever and retirement home. The dining room is painted a soft blue with a just a hint of aqua, and features a 1940s table, chairs and sideboard beautifully accented with period finds. The chandelier has been in every home the couple has owned. They repurposed the original dining room fixture in the entrance hall. The living room invites one to sit down amid warm beige walls, and a stunning fireplace accented with deep pink marble. Kelli, who is from Acworth, and Joe, who was born in Canton but
grew up in Ellijay, met while both were students at then Reinhardt College. Joe said the couple bought the home because they love Canton, but what they have found is so much more. “When we moved in, we didn’t know everybody and people would say, ‘Oh, you bought the Sparks house,’ it was evident right away that they had a great reputation,” Joe said. “When we bought this house, we bought good will, it is obvious people thought a lot of them.” Kelli agrees, saying that living in historic Canton has been a lot like living in Mayberry, where everyone knows everyone, and is supportive and kind. Joe said they are both so glad they came home to Canton. “This has been a real blessing, not just a house,” he said.
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hen interior designer Christine Blight and her husband Phil began searching for a new home of their own, they seized on a 1970s ranch within walking distance of downtown Woodstock and their shop on Main Street. The house needed some tender loving care to make it home for the couple, but they rolled up their sleeves and got to work, and six months later it reflects their eclectic style. “For us it was about walkability, entertainment space and being all one level,” Christine said. “And I had to have a yard— that was important.” The home is nestled on a flat, half-acre lot, a rare find in the area, and has a screened-in porch across the back. Since it was built in 1971, the 1,800-square-foot home had undergone several rounds of updates, but had been on the market for a while before the couple purchased it. The kitchen was already outfitted with granite countertops, tile backsplashes and stainless steel appliances, the garage was enclosed and the bathrooms were improved. But the moment Christine walked in, she knew why it had not sold. “The house had a smell coming from the plumbing and the ceilings were popcorn and contained asbestos, although when the house was built it had already been deemed a health hazard,” she said. After reaching an agreement on the price with the previous owners, the Blights immediately moved to have all the popcorn ceilings and asbestos removed, resulting in smooth surfaces that allow architectural features like arches, long windows and fireplaces to shine. “”We took out the asbestos, went deep into the plumbing, and did new appliances because the plumbing was not done correctly,” Christine said. The decorator chose an all-white color palette for her new home, which brightens up the space and sets off the dark wood, wide plank laminate flooring covering that graces many of the rooms of the house. The house is furnished in a European and British Colonial style that is light and airy, and provides a wonderful backdrop for the couple’s collection of salvaged architectural wood trim from some of the most historic homes in downtown Woodstock. Gingerbread trim and porch pieces from the Hendrix house, a turn of the century cottage which was torn down to make way
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for progress, highlight the living room, including the archway into the dining area, where Christine added ship-lap walls to add additional detail. A new door leading to the back of the home brings in more light to the space. The old trim was salvaged on its way to the dump, she said. Her latest finds include columns and shutters that were being stripped from the former Dean house on Main Street. Phil takes the couple’s salvaged finds and gives them new life through carpentry, but the peeling paint is left, imparting character and bringing an historic element into the house. Christine and Phil are saving and practical, leaving in place everything they can in their new home, including the single-pane windows now covered in 4 ½-inch wooden shutters to provide insulation value and reduce heating and air conditioning bills, The couple did not purchase any new furniture for the home except one chair for the living room, finding new purposes for everything they own, from Swedish antiques from the 1800s to light fixtures to storage cabinets. The vinyl siding is in place, with plans to paint it and add new shutters to the home. For Christine, the ranch is like coming home, a feeling she is enjoying to the fullest. “This is exactly like my parents’ first house. Usually we are not drawn to what our parents have, but for me this home is perfect. It combines the very old and the very new in the best way possible,” she said.
Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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[FROM THE DIRECTOR]
By Mark Wallace Maguire
St. Patrick’s Day is here again,
W
time to slay the stereotypes
ell, March is among us and with it comes St. Patrick’s Day, the holiday which began as an American holiday to celebrate Irish-Americans contributions to our nation and, like many other holidays, has evolved – or rather devolved – into an opportunity to justify drinking too much. Along the way has been added consuming lots of fried fish, potatoes and corned beef and donning offensive T-shirts available at your local Wal-Mart i.e. ‘I may not be Irish, but I drink like one.’ The Irish have a dynamic history in this country and abroad. As an Irish-American, I’ve been fortunate to travel to the “old sod” a few times on academic as well as pleasure trips. I take pride in my heritage, and while I am not one to get too worked up over political correctness, I find myself getting weary of the stereotypes. About 10 years ago, I wrote about the greatness of being Irish and celebrated our contributions in America, the homeland and across the globe. But this year, I thought I might add a different perspective on ‘Irishness.’ At the risk of sounding preachy, here are a few facts you might not know about the sons and daughters of Erin. DRINKING IRISH? NOT SO MUCH: The longest and strongest of all Irish stereotypes is the “Drunk Irish.” I studied 10 different analyses and in each study, Ireland was not even in the top 10 in alcohol consumption per capita by country and, in a few studies, not even in the top 20. So, why does the myth persist? Quite simply, the British Imperialists used the myth for hundreds of years to justify colonialism as in, “they can’t govern themselves, so they need our help.” The “Drunk Irish” false propaganda – along with heaping doses of “fighting Irish,” “stupid Irish,” “ape caricatures” and the like - helped Britain’s foreign policy image as they kept control of Ireland until the nation finally gained its independence in 1922. TATERS: Okay, if you eat corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day, don’t get mad at me. I enjoy corned beef, too, and, yes, with a side of taters, I can relish a hefty serving preferring mine with a generous slab of spicy mustard. But it is an Irish-American invention, not Irish cuisine (yes, I know that is an oxymoron.) You can find plenty of lamb and fish to dine on throughout Ireland, but, not
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corned beef. What is not a cliché, however, is the mighty Irish Potato. My wife and I honeymooned in western Ireland and our joke often was you get everything, “with a side of potatoes” including “potatoes, with a side of potatoes.” I actually find potatoes to be the loveliest vegetable on the globe and could solely live off of them if need be. THE IRISH FAMINE: Many Irish-Americans chart up their ancestors’ flight to America as caused by the great Potato Blight throughout the 19th century in Ireland known as The Great Famine and The Great Hunger. And the lack of a successful potato crop was a factor in mass emigration. But the conveniently overlooked fact is that there was not a true famine in Ireland. There was adequate food in Ireland outside of the potato. The famine was due to the fact that the country still exported mass amounts of food to their imperialistic overlords Great Britain. There were other forms of agriculture and livestock available to eat, however, the British government had the bulk of that food exported to feed themselves while the Irish were left to starve, survive or emigrate. EXPORTS: The saying for years is that Ireland’s greatest export was its people. And it’s true. The population of the nation today is less than that of metro Atlanta, yet, an estimated 80 million people worldwide claim some Irish descent, including more than 36 million Americans who claim Irish as their primary ethnicity and Irish Jamaicans who are the second largest ethnic group on that island. ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN IRELAND? For centuries, St. Patrick’s Day was considered a holy day in Ireland. A visit to church and family time were in order and most pubs remained closed for observance up until the 1970s. But, eventually the Irish government realized in the mid-90s that by promoting the holiday they could give the economy a boost. The St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin is now a massive success and generates a huge turnout. Cash registers ring. Folks revel. Tourists pour in. Well, as I said, I write this not to sound righteous. As with every year, I will spend my St. Patrick’s Day donning green. After work, I will read prayers attributed to St. Patrick and then my family will enjoy a fine meal of lamb stew and I will sip on a Guinness for dessert. Just don’t expect me to be toasting with green beer or wearing a leprechaun T-shirt from Wal-Mart.
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By Rebecca Johnston Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell
Schue
bouquet. bottles. Ball Ground.
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The story behind Feather’s Edge Winery
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Schuerholz
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David Boone tends to his grapes.
AGRICULTURE EXPO Friday, March 10, 2017 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM 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 for the year is vegetables. Enjoy visiting over 30 different Agriculture Display Booths and refreshments. This event is free and open to the public. Keynote Speaker will be Georgia Farm Bureau President Gerald Long. The Expo will be held at River Church, 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, GA 30114. 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 FFAS 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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all Ground artists Julie and David Boone say they have always liked to “grow things” whether it be a business, a garden or a piece of art. With the opening of Feathers Edge Vineyards on the 24 acres where they operate their art gallery just north of town, the Boones are putting their dreams into flight. The two are the force behind the popular Wildcat on a Wing gallery and shop, which they started in 1996 on what they call “a wing and a prayer.” David gained national recognition in the mid1980s for his handmade and beautiful birdhouses, which led the couple on the first step of their evolving journey. Now, with 5 acres of grapes, a stunning tasting room, seating area and entertainment garden for gatherings and events, the couple say they are truly pushing their dream to the edge, and that is how Feathers Edge got its name. “First we were winging it,
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and now we’re going from the wing to the feathers,” David Boone said. “Wineries are things you start, but never finish. But we don’t mind waiting to see the results.” Visitors seem to love the results so far, and are flocking to taste the locally sourced wines created for the new winery, as well as selections offered from two of North Georgia’s oldest and most popular wineries, the Georgia Winery in Ringgold and Three Sisters Vineyards and Winery near Dahlonega. This fall the couple will begin the process of making wine from the first harvest of grapes grown on the property. About nine years ago, David began to wonder how he could attract more birds to the property. Following a shoulder injury he no longer makes his famous bird houses, although during his career as an artist he made about 60,000 of them, he said. “Our interest in birds increased and Julie had the idea to plant hemlocks and other plantings to attract the birds,” he said. “Then I asked myself how we could attract even more birds.” The first phase of the winery was the planting of 300 vines, including seven species of grapes, eight years ago. “We were seeing at this altitude what grapes we could grow best, and we then grew them up to maturity,” he said. The vineyard is at an altitude of 1,260 feet and the ideal elevation to grow grapes for wine is usually 1,100 to 2,200 feet, he said, which puts his vineyard in the range. The vines also need southward facing slopes such as those found on
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the property. Out of the seven, three varieties were chosen – Norton, Blanc du Bois, and Catawba. The Nortons will be the first harvested. About nine months ago, the tasting room opened to the public, and since has been the scene of great music, good food and celebrations. The four wines featured exclusively include Taliwa Red, named for the battle of Taliwa between the Creeks and the Cherokee Native Americans in the area. Cotton Fields is a white table wine named by David. The popular Etowah Shoals, a red blend named for the nearby river, and Sliding Rock, a dry white Vidal Blanc chosen to remember an area on Wildcat Creek, round out the quartet. The indoor and outdoor area can accommodate up to 65 visitors, with most of the seating on the porch and outside, making the space ideal to sit and sip wine or enjoy the food pairings that are often offered. A small stage sits at the edge of the garden, with the forest beyond as a backdrop. Musicians are featured most weekends for the enjoyment of the customers. The closest winery to Atlanta, it is also perhaps the only one in the area to feature an artists gallery, where customers enter to make their way to the tasting room. David and Julie designed the bar and décor of the room, and both are works of art. David embossed copper to embellish the bar with scenes of the mountains, birds and grapevines. “We visited a lot of tasting rooms, and some were simple and some were elaborate.” Julie said. “David built the bar out of copper, brass and cedar.” The two have been married for 32 years and met when they worked at TransDesign, an art company in the Sixes area that is no longer in business. Nowadays, they are pouring all their energy into their new venture. During the summer they held a trout dinner that drew large crowds and rave reviews. They feature food by such popular local chefs as Lori Grizzle. For the fall and holiday season, visitors can enjoy many of the wine offerings while traveling through the area to view the leaves, shop for local wares or hunt for apples and other local fare. For information on hours and events visit Feathers Edge Vineyards’ Facebook page or call 770-735-6923. Feathers Edge Vineyards is at 10061 Ball Ground Highway, Ball Ground.
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[HEALTH AND FITNESS]
By Emily Selby Photography by Kathryn Ingall
PLIE, POSSE & KICK-BALL-CHANGE ... all steps that are being taught in dance studios around the county where many adults are picking up lessons, too. Dance was a sport that many picked up in their younger days but left shortly after high school, if not before. Now, the art form offers adults an alternative form of exercise with a major social component, and several studios in the county are opening their doors to former and beginning dancers looking to move their feet.
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DanceCentre South At DanceCentre South, the options for adult dance classes are endless. Ballet, tap, jazz, ballroom and hip-hop classes are available at their studio locations in Woodstock and Canton, and there is no age limit. Studio owner Annie Day has 21-year-olds and 74-year olds in her tap class, and says it’s “nice to see the different ages working together. They find a commonality in the fact that they love to tap dance.” The studio has offered adult classes since they opened 24 years ago, and Day said dancing has many health and social benefits. “It has a cardio benefit in class, plus coordination, strength and the repetition of the movement is good for everybody,” she said. “There’s also that brain benefit that’s great for all adults – remembering a combination of steps and trying to remember it from week to week.” Dancing in a class with others each week also has a social benefit, and for dancer Evelyn James, of Woodstock, the ladies she dances with keep her coming back each week. “My daughter dances here and she challenged me to do it,” James said. “It’s good exercise and it clears my mind. I always look forward to my Wednesdays.” James takes jazz and hip-hop classes on Wednesday nights at the Woodstock studio, and jazz teacher Marcus Alford said his classes are geared toward adults. “Jazz is whatever color you want it to be,” he said. “There are many different types of jazz … with adults, we can do blues jazz, but kids always want something more upbeat.” Leading the dancers through stretches and exercises, Alford guides
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them through a combination that they build on from week to week. Classes run from August to May, and at the end of the session, dancers are able to perform the combination on stage for an audience. “That’s the carrot on the end of the stick, to make you keep wanting to come to class every week. Or you can call it the threat of ‘We have to get out in front of people and do this dance’,” Day said. “They kind of liken it to jumping off the diving board. It’s kind of scary when you are on the end of that diving board, but then you take the jump and you think ‘Wow, can I do that again?’” Classes are available for dancers of all levels, and the advanced adult classes push dancers to learn more and work hard. “A lot of these people danced when they were younger, so they have a nice background, and then we continue to push them to learn more as they have been in our classes for years and years,” Day said. “It is an art form; you aren’t just standing on a treadmill getting your cardio. You have a little flair and you have the music to relate to, so it’s a lot more enjoyable than a lot of other forms of exercise in my opinion.” When learning a new step, Day said the dancers have a tradition where they have to say “woo hoo” instead of complaining or thinking that they can’t do it. “That’s a neat attitude to keep in life, and maybe if we practice that in dance class, we will do that in the everyday world when we come up against a challenge,” she said. One class per week is $58 a month and the studio also offers sixweek session classes. Anyone can come in and try their first class for free.
For more information, visit www.dancentresouth.com.
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PowerTaps Clogging Adult cloggers at PowerTaps Clogging, in Woodstock, perform all over the nation, and some of their metal taps made their way across the pond to perform in the London New Year’s Day Parade. Of the 68 full-time performers, eight adults made their way to the U.K., and many say they never anticipated the opportunities that clogging has presented. “I saw a sign on the way home on the sign of the road for beginners classes and I decided to give it a whirl,” said clogger Valeria Clark, who has been at the studio for six years. “I learned so much and I never looked back. I never thought it would take me all the way to London.” Many of those who perform started in the studio’s Beginner from Scratch class. “(It’s) intended for anyone that has never danced before - not just clogged - but danced,” said PowerTaps owner Marci Rickard. “We have not found an adult yet that we cannot teach. They give me all the excuses of ‘I have two left feet; I’m too old; I’m too out of shape’ but we have not found one yet who can’t clog.” From the beginner’s class, dancers have various other upper-level classes to choose from each week, including a cardio class that will guarantee an intense workout. “I basically keep hitting the play button and it’s nothing but fun, sweat and smiles,” said Rickard. “In a typical 45 minute class, we get about 3,000 to 4,000 steps. In a cardio class, we can easily go over 4,000 steps.” The physical benefit brought Teresa Rodgers to PowerTaps, but the friends she made have kept her at the studio for six years.
“I had breast cancer and needed to fill my lungs back up,” she said. “As an adult, we work, so it’s nothing but stress and deadlines, but we come here and it’s all fun. We become a family … As long as there’s a place for me, I’ll be here.” Clark said she started clogging while she was recovering from a surgery, and the positive attitude at the studio helped her tremendously. “It gave me an outlet and brought me out of the dumps,” she said. “There was a sign in the first studio that said ‘If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re absolutely right.’ That was a game changer for me because I told myself I could do it and six years later I’m still here.” Clogging has evolved over the years, according to Rickard, who said that while many associate the dance style with bluegrass and crinoline skirts, PowerTaps dances to many popular tunes. “It’s very much modern and we dance to any musical genre that you can imagine,” she said. “I always tell people ‘If you don’t like the song, hang on three minutes’ because we’ll change it to something completely different.” For Rickard and many of the adult cloggers, they continue to dance simply because it is fun. “I’ve done it for 35 years and I keep doing it because it’s fun. I’ve joined gyms and I’ve done aerobics, but eventually I get bored. This continues to challenge you, it’s fun and it’s definitely cardio in nature,” said Rickard. “There’s no end to it. You don’t ever age-out. I plan to clog until I can’t clog anymore.” The Beginner from Scratch class lasts six weeks and costs $5 a class. Sessions are held once every quarter, with the next session beginning in March.
For more information, visit www.powertapsclogging.com.
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[TRAVEL]
Words and Photography by Jennifer Carter
Alabama Dreaming If the cooler temps are making you blue and your family’s bout with cabin fever has morphed into a virtual epidemic, fret not: there’s sanctuary residing just over the state line. Shockingly close to the Atlanta ‘burbs (only six hours by car and 1.5 hours by air!), the sugary white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast are waiting to soothe your soul and brighten your blahs. The weather might still be a mite chilly outside, but there’s no better time to plan your next vacation for you and your favorite flip flops or strappy sandals.
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explore: by land and sea
relax
Just for a moment, imagine this: 32 miles of soft sand and lapping waves…and your seaside accommodations mere steps from them…and fresh seafood paired with paradise-inspired libations just steps from those. This is the magic that awaits in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama. I found myself there by some lucky twist of traveler’s fate last summer, and I realized that in all my childhood years of living in Alabama in the early 80s (please don’t do the math), I had somehow never heard about this place. My mother had always packed our boogey boards, water wings, bologna sandwiches and cold Dr. Peppers into the car and carted us to those overcrowded beaches in Florida. But how could we have not known about the Alabama Gulf Coast? Perhaps because those Alabamians were just great at keeping secrets, but it’s safe to say that the secret’s out now in Cobb County. And I’ll let you in on another little secret. There is nothing — NOTHING — in this world as transporting for an inland city dweller than that first shock of salty air hitting your nostrils as you near the ocean with the windows rolled down, or more exuberant than that first wash of frothy waves over your feet when you are drawn into that surf like a magnet. The water somehow brings you back to your natural state, and that state is peace. My suitcase was not even unpacked but tossed into a corner of my Phoenix VII beach side condo as I threw open the sliding glass door to my balcony. Lines of brilliant, cobalt blue umbrellas dotted the shoreline beneath me, their inhabitant sunbathers reading and (gasp!) relaxing. A lone parasailer went floating by like a colorful mirage, suspended above the water by the sheer will of bright fabric and sea air. And me. I lost no time in ditching my shoes and running (okay, rapidly speed-walking) to that very sand that, less than three minutes before, had been that captivating view from a few floors up.
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I know it’s quite unlikely, but if you ever tire of all that relaxing and “me-time,” Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer numerous ways to divert your attentions. I often say in jest that “I want to travel so far away that the birds look different,” and in this case, I was not disappointed. In fact, there were many options to experience the various forms of wildlife in the area. Avid animal lovers and those traveling with children cannot miss the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Nicknamed the “little zoo that could,” it houses over 500 exotic animals including lions, tigers, bears, primates, leopards, and wolves. And take heed of this cuteness alert: they also offer staff-supervised encounters with baby kangaroos, lemurs and sloths. When they placed a dozing baby kangaroo in my arms, I felt downright maternal. My heart melted even further when I got to feed that slow moving sloth. (Insider tip: Hilarity ensues if you decide to wear a long dress into the lemur enclosure. They are endearingly curious animals and they sometimes like to hide playfully in the folds, giving one quite a shock but a funny story to tell later.) If boating through the bayou is more your speed, be sure to check out a narrated nature tour aboard Sailaway Charter’s covered pontoon. Captain Skip Beebee, a former clock repairman, guides guests through Longs Bayou and Wolf Bay while acquainting you with oysters, blue crabs, shrimp, and a variety of fish and birds that are
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where to indulge: indigenous to the area. And if you’re very lucky, as I was, you’ll catch a glimpse of Mr. Friendly, a locally famous 50-year old dolphin who likes to surface to bid you “hello.” This boat ride is suitable for nature lovers of all ages. For those with penchant for the romantic, nothing beats watching the sun disappear behind the waves from the upper deck of the Sail Wild Hearts catamaran. The welcoming staff keeps their guests laughably entertained, hoola-hooping with dexterity despite the rocking boat. (They’ll even let you join in if it’s your birthday.) They provide bottled water and light hors d’oeurvres for the chartered two-hour sunset trip, though you can bring your own cooler with beverages. And for those desiring another kind of “wildlife viewing” all together, the annual Hangout Music Fest, scheduled for May 19-21, is an ever-growing force to be reckoned with. The ultimate beach concert, the festival held adjacent to the Hangout restaurant in Gulf Shores offers revelers the opportunity to hear music from their favorite bands while still planting their toes in the sand. At press time, acts such as Mumford & Sons and Weezer were already set to headline for this spring. (For a full lineup and ticket prices, check www.hangoutmusicfest.com.) Insider Tip: If you can afford the Super VIP Tickets, you’ll enjoy such amenities as gourmet food in an air-conditioned dining room and hot tub seating next to the Main Stage. Seriously.
The wealth of fresh seafood in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is unparalleled, and the eateries in the area are extremely adept at delighting travelers’ culinary senses. Here are a few of my favorite places for their food and ambience. Cobalt, the Restaurant 28099 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 www.cobaltrestaurant.net Cobalt’s fabulous outdoor patio with fountains and palm trees beckons you outside to enjoy a glass of wine and fine dining while watching the yachts pass you by. The Hangout 101 East Beach Blvd. Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 www.thehangout.com Not just famous for its annual concert, The Hangout restaurant is also known for its beachy cuisine. I was quite smitten with their superb burger selection and fun atmosphere (they actually have an adult-sized bubble machine to run through). Lulu’s 202 East 25th Ave. Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 www.lulubuffett.com
Touted as an establishment based on the ideals of “escapism and family fun,” Lulu’s is renowned for both their burgers and totally legit margaritas, both blended and on the rocks. The Cadillac Margarita will become a Gulf Shores tradition on subsequent trips. Interesting sidenote: Lulu (Lucy Anne Buffett) is actually singer Jimmy Buffett’s little sister, so you know that this place keeps fun close at hand. Voyagers at Perdido Key Resort 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 www.perdidobeachresort.com Executive chef Brody Olive has made Voyagers a must-visit while in Orange Beach. Their menu consists of sustainable seafood, vegetables from local farms and natural organic meats and a stellar wine list. And the panoramic view of the Alabama Gulf Coast can’t be beat. Tip: For beefeaters, try the PBR filet mignon with a glass of red and for seafood lovers, try the grilled swordfish.
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www.woodstockfuneralhome.com 34
Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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where to stay: Brett Robinson Vacations has a healthy array of beachfront and bayfront properties.
(The Phoenix VII condos are my favorite for beach access.) Can’t possibly wait until spring break? Be sure to check for winter rates. | www.Brett-Robinson.com
what to do:
Sail Wild Hearts
27200 Perdido Beach Blvd. (Hwy. 182) Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 251-981-6700 www.sailwildhearts.com
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 251-968-5732 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org
Sailaway Charters
24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 251-974-5055 www.sailorskip.com
March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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[HIGHLIGHTS] A CLOSER LOOK AT EVENTS HAPPENING IN CHEROKEE DURING MARCH & APRIL MARCH 10 & 12
APRIL 20-24
Elm Street’s RepTouR improve company brings storybooks to life in this energetic and engaging original work on March 10 and 12. The first half will present scripts based on Dr. Suess’ “The Lorax” and tall tales such as Paul Bunyan. The second half will feature skits of student stories’ that are improvised during the show. Rated G. More information: www.elmstreetarts.org
Elm Street Cultural Arts Center present “Zombie Prom,” a Tony Award-winner for best musical features, from April 20–24. With music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the story centers on a group of friends in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City. When the winning lottery ticket, a power outage, and romantic tension all hit the neighborhood, the long-time friends and neighbors make discoveries about each other, themselves and the place they all call home. The show is rated PG-13, and tickets are $12 online and $15 at the door. More information: www.elmstreetarts.org
STORYBOOK FESTIVAL
MARCH 3
MARCH 19
On March 3, downtown Woodstock’s Friday Night Live theme will be Masquerade Ball. Local businesses and restaurants will stay open late, from 6 to 9 p.m., with special deals and discounts. Performances and activities are also offered on the streets of downtown Woodstock. More information: www.visitwoodstockga.com
Pianist and Reinhardt University faculty member Susan Naylor will give a retirement recital March 19 at 3 p.m. and the Falany Performing Arts Center in Waleska. The concert will include solo piano, cello and piano, and piano duet and duo with the music of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Keats, Moszkowski, and Schulhoff. Naylor has been a member of the music faculty at Reinhardt for 41 years, serving as chair for 15 years. Admission is free and tickets are not required. For information see the Falany Performing Arts Center Facebook page.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE
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RETIREMENT RECITAL
ZOMBIE PROM
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MARCH 17-19
MARCH 10
Elm Street Cultural Arts Center will present the classic children’s tale reimagined in musical style March 17 – 19. Composed by Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman, the Pulitzer-Prize-winning playwright of “Night Mother,” the performance will tell the story of 11 year-old Mary Lennox, who returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered reclusive uncle Archibald and has invalid son Colin. The performance, rated G, will be presented on the Event Green, weather permitting, and both tables and individual sets are available for purchase. VIP tables that seat eight are $250, Premiere tables that seat six are $125, and general table that seat six are $75. Individual seats are available for $20. More information: www.elmstreetarts.org
MJ LIVE is the number one Michael Jackson tribute show in the world showcasing the energy, excitement, spectacle and pure joy of this legendary superstar and his music. Experience this awesome, theatrical stage production with its powerful sound, spectacular lighting, visual effects, team of dancers and live band on stage taking audiences back to when the King of Pop ruled the charts — along with the Michael Jackson tribute artist’s spot-on breathtaking impersonations. Sing along to many of Jackson’s biggest hits presented all on one stage, including “Bad,” “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Dangerous,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Black & White,” “Thriller,” “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough,” and many more. MJ LIVE also includes a Jackson 5 segment (“I’ll Be There,” “I Want You Back”) inspired by Soul Train. When: March 10, 8 p.m. Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway. Information: Tickets are $30-$55, plus applicable fees; 800-745-3000 or www. cobbenergycentre.com/
SECRET GARDEN — CONCERT EDITION
APRIL 7
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE
On April 7, downtown Woodstock’s Friday Night Live theme will be Zombie Prom. Local businesses and restaurants will stay open late, from 6 to 9 p.m., with special deals and discounts. Performances and activities are also offered on the streets of downtown Woodstock. More information: www.visitwoodstockga. com
MARCH 25
SWING OF SPRING CABARET
Deb Bowman is back celebrating her second “Swing of Spring,” live at the Lyric Studio Theatre. Featuring her amazing Big Love Band: Arthur Turner on the keys, Craig Shaw on bass and Jared Lanham on percussion. Spend an evening with Cabaret master Deb, singing American Songbook standards, Broadway, Classics, and originals — all with a New York Cabaret flair. When: March 25, 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Where: 12 Powder Springs St., Marietta. Entrance under maroon awning located just to the left of Marietta Pizza Company. Parking — free parking weekends in the Lawrence Street parking deck or any day after 6 p.m. on the Square. The lot immediately behind the Lyric Studio is private and towing is strictly enforced. Information: $25 individual ticket; $125 VIP (seats up to four people and includes bottle of wine); atlantalyrictheatre.com/
MJ LIVE
March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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GALA FUNDRAISER. The Not Alone Foundation hosted the Diamond Awards Dionne Warwick Gala Dec. 9 featuring legendary singer Dionne Warwick to raise money for the foundation in its fight against kidney disease, while also supporting other charities such as the Rotary Club of Canton, Next Step Ministries and the Boys and Girls Club. The black tie event was at the Bluffs in Canton with red carpet arrivals and a reception before the dinner and performance by the star. 1. Karren and David Manuel. 2. From
left, Kelly Johns, Cathy Johns and Mary Ellen Phillips. 3. From left, Jim Rusk, Marie Hall and Sherry Peterson. 4. Brenda Satterfield and Jamie Morgan. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //
Upcoming Art Shows: Cherokee County School District Show A: March 7-11 Show B: March 21-25
Hand Building Pottery Class by Robin Carter & Barbara Murphy Adults & Teens Starts March 2017 Call for more information!
Memoir Writing by Peggy Corbett Looking for students! Adults and Teens $85 - 5 week course Starts March 3 - Fridays - 11am to 12:30pm
Painting Rich Color & High Contrast in Watercolor Workshop by Gary Curtis Friday & Saturday, March 3 & 4 12pm to 5pm - Ages 16yrs+ $210
Digital Photography by Kim Bates Adults and Teens - ages 12 yrs + $90 Starts March 2 & April 6 Thursdays, 6 pm to 8 pm Teen Drawing by John Horne Teens: 13 to 20 Saturdays: 12:45 to 2:30 pm Starts March 4 & April 1 - $90 Oil & Acrylic Painting by Linda Maphet Adults and Teens - $100 Starts March 2 & April 6 Thursdays - 1:30pm to 3:30pm
EVENTS JR Cochran Presents A Night of Laughter V Adult Comedy Show in the Theater March 4 - Doors open 6:30pm Show starts 8ish (Rated R & 21yrs+ with Cash Bar) King's Academy Presents The Little Mermaid Friday, March 24 at 7pm Saturday, March 25 at 2pm & 7pm
Weaving by Jane Wimmer Adults and Teens - $150 Starts March 1 Wednesdays - 2pm to 5pm
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
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5. Al Cato along and Kelly Pearson.. 6. From left, Pinkie Hill, Marsha Powell, Lucy Porter and Dorisey Brown. 7. From left, Jeff Westbrook with Flo and James Brown. 8. Linda Mancini and Barbra Autrey. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //
March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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Cherokee Life
[WHAT’S INSIDE]
March/April 2017 Volume 12, Issue 2, EXECUTIVE
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PUBLISHER Lee B. Garrett
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V.P. ADVERTISING Wade Stephens EDITORIAL STAFF DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES Mark Wallace Maguire ASST. DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES LaTria Garnigan EDITOR Rebecca Johnston
in every issue
8 8 SPICE Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Donovan’s Irish Cobbler
FROM THE EDITOR
5
12 HOME Inside remodeled ranch homes
NEWS AND NOTEWORTHY
6
FROM THE DIRECTOR
20
HIGHLIGHTS
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22 TOAST AT THE TOP Meet the duo behind Feather’s Edge Winery 28 HEALTH Dance your way to fitness
SCENE
32 TRAVEL Go south this season
REFLECTIONS
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CONTRIBUTORS Shaddi Abusaid, Sampson Jenkins, Emily Selby, Kayla Elder, Carla Barnes, Jennifer Carter PHOTOGRAPHERS Kathryn Ingall, Erin Gray Cantrell, Jennifer Carter LAYOUT AND DESIGN LaTria Garnigan, Mark Wallace Maguire PROOFREADER Nicole Price ADVERTISING STAFF ADVERTISING MANAGER Kim Fowler ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tara Guest
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Acworth Art Festival
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Medical Associates of North GA
35
Aqua Guard Basements
40
NGA OB/GYN Specialists
39
Berkshire Hathaway
7
NH Vascular Surgery
17
Canton Tire and Wheel
19
NHC Ortho & Sports
11
Cherokee County Arts Council
38
NHC Surgical Associates
31
Cherokee County Chorale
36
Northside Hospital - Cherokee
43
Cherokee County Farm Bureau
24
Northside Hospital Heart
30
Cherokee Group Page
27
Plastic Surgery Center of The South
24
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
4
3
Provino’s 26
City of Canton
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Reinhardt University
15
Darby Funeral Home
19
Reinhardt University - Falany Performaning
37
Dixie Speedway
25
Repair Barn
16
Edens Keepers
16
Salon • Spa Venessa
34
Elon Salon
21
Sosebee Funeral Home
44
Fowler Electric
40
Superior Plumbing
41
Frosty Frog Creamery & Café
10
Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents
10
Funk Heritage Center
36
Wellstar 2
Greenprints Alliance
6
Horizon Laurel
14
Jake’s Produce
5
Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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Willows Gift Shop
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Woodstock Funeral Home
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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Paula Milton, Becky Opitz, Ginny Hrushka, Jill Abbott GRAPHICS COORDINATOR Beth Poirier GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jennifer Hall, Carlos Navarrete PRODUCTION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett 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 Kim Fowler at 770.795.3068 Please send all editorial correspondence to cherokeelifemagazine@ cherokeelifemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook and at www.cherokeelifemagazine.com
2/14/2017 2:06:01 PM
New exhibit explores rural influence on modern American art
[ARTS]
By Kate Brumback
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A new exhibition takes a look at how American artists found inspiration in rural landscapes during an era of modernist art that was more closely associated with cities. “Cross Country: The Power of Place in American Art, 19151950” is open at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. It features about 200 works from more than 80 artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Grant Wood, Jacob Lawrence and Andrew Wyeth. It is divided into five geographical regions — the South, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Northeast and the West — based on the part of the country featured in the works. “The thing that they all share is that these are all works that reflect an artist thinking about or being moved by a specific location,” High curator of American art Stephanie Heydt said. While American artists still traveled to Europe for instruction and inspiration in the first half of the 20th century, many also began to focus on things that were new to them closer to home, Heydt said. They looked outside major cities and found pastoral settings with barns and rolling hills, industrialism creeping into previously pristine spaces, dramatic vistas and scenes of regular people living their everyday lives. She cited four main reasons for the artists’ travel: relaxation and escape from the bustle of the urban environment; a sense of community found in artist colonies and art schools; government or foundation grants or commissions from commercial customers; curiosity about unfamiliar places and a desire to experience the unknown. Thomas Hart Benton, usually associated with the Midwest, traveled to the South and captures a weathered old tobacco farmer teaching a slight young girl about tobacco leaves in “Tobacco Sorters,” a commission for a tobacco company that was ultimately rejected. Another of his pieces, “The Cliffs,” shows sculpted-looking cliffs rising over crashing waves on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. “Opening Day at Talladega College,” painted by Hale Woodruff in 1942, is one of a series of six murals for the historically black college’s library that traces the slave’s journey to freedom. The bright colors lend vibrancy to the scenes of former slaves registering for classes. The other five murals are on display in another part of the High to complement this exhibition. In “Black Hunter,” Andrew Wyeth paints an old friend of his in a rural field. The painting, drawn from the artist’s personal memories, has a haunting quality, Heydt noted. It hangs near works by his father N.C. Wyeth and sister Carolyn Wyeth. The exhibition is a collaboration between the High and the Brandywine River Museum of Art in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, and expands on a recent Brandywine show called “Rural Modern: American Art Beyond the City.”
If You Go... Cross Country: The Power Of Place In American Art, 1915-1950: now through May 7 | High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta | www.high.org | 404-733-5000. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on Fridays until 9 p.m.; Sundays, noon - 5 p.m. Ages 6 and up: $14.50; children 5 and under, free.
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[REFLECTIONS]
The candle or the mirror? By Carla Barnes
On a Thursday in January I stepped onto a bus and traveled back in time – to middle school. I was accompanying my daughter and her fellow classmates for a choir trip to Athens. Once on board she paired off quickly with a friend, and I and another mother were left scrambling for an empty seat. A sweet seventh-grader graciously let this middle-aged, legging-wearing, suburban mom sit next to her for the next two hours. I was just as excited as the kids were to perform at the Georgia Music Educators Association conference event that night, but I soon realized how different this school trip would be from my middle school past as the wifi password was passed around on the back of a business card, and the selfie stick quickly emerged from my daughter’s travel bag. Everyone was talking and tapping – on their phones. Up a couple of rows I watched as one of our travel mates took her selfie more than a dozen times. This actually went on the entire trip. I watched in fascination and thought on how I could have possibly done that with a point and shoot when I was her age. Not. She would click, then admire herself, come up with a different angle and facial expression and begin again. There were all kinds of characters she transformed herself into from a furry dog to a fairy. According to one of my friends who is very popular on social media you will get more “likes” on your photo if you take it with half your face showing. I guess I should have shared that because she never took one of those during my observation. A row back, another student was singing some old school Beastie Boys and then a Coolio song. He would have crawled under his seat if I would have picked up where he left off when he sang a couple of verses from “Gangsta’s Paradise.” I laughed to myself thinking how square I must have appeared. No matter the occasional moment when I might feel cool, the reality is that I am still awkward at least 50 percent of the time after all these years. I happened to catch a program on the radio the other day
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which shared some historical facts about author Edith Wharton, well known for writing about the exclusive drawing rooms of New York society in the early 1900s. She knew the politics of popularity and how “likes” were earned in her era. “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it,” she said. I wondered about this looking around at all the young women wanting to burn a little brighter than the next. Which ones were providing the reflections? Andy Warhol, a visual artist and king of printmaking, wasn’t too far off when he said that everyone in the future would have their 15 minutes of fame. And for many of us it will be the timely post of a photo or a video that helps us reach this achievement. I do think it is possible for each of us to be the candle or the mirror at different times in our life. I think when we are the mirror it serves an important purpose because the reality is that everyone needs to feel special. We did eventually get off the bus and the phones got tucked away as the group got down to business. As corny as it is to say it, these teens sounded like angels on earth. The songs were masterfully arranged by Fred Forsh, chorus teacher at Teasley Middle School, and accompanied by fellow teacher Karen DeSue on the piano. I am thankful I had been prepped a couple of nights before when I had watched them at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University in Waleska. I was teary throughout “Kyrie Eleison” and I promised myself there would be no need for Kleenex on round two. Those beautiful faces – their energy and enthusiasm and their director arms striking poses as he coached them through every breath. I couldn’t decide who was the candle or the reflection. In this instance I am not sure it mattered. Pure beauty does that and the standing ovation they received confirmed it. How apropos the Chinese proverb, “If heaven made him, Earth can find some use for him.” Let us pray that each of us finds our use. Let us be a candle those who are hungry for light, and be the reflection of beauty in others.
Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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Exercise. A family activity.
With our busy lives it’s hard to fit work, family and personal time in every day. Here’s a thought: combine them. Spend time with your kids exercising. You’ll feel better, connect with your kids and teach them habits they’ll carry for the rest of their lives. Best of all, you’ll be around to see them exercising with their kids. If you’re starting an exercise program, call 404-851-6550 for some heart advice.
Northside.com
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404-851-6550
A Lifetime of Care
March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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Casey L. Guyton
Jody Densmore
Lynn Carder
Jamey Dunn
Kevin Lunsford
Allan Cain
Justin Watson
Joey Watson
Kelli McKelvey
Helen Padgett
Lamar & Nancy Guyton
Frances & Norman Sosebee
Jane Smith
Mike Pair
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www.SosebeeFuneralHome.com Family Owned and Operated by Casey L. Guyton
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[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]
By Rebecca Johnston
Finding happiness in the small things Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. Those words, or something close, jumped out at me from a sign in front of a business along Highway 140 as I drove along the busy road. Since I was moving at about 55 mph I am not sure of the exact quote, but those thoughts from Melody Beattie are close enough. I am not a huge fan of philosophy by sign, whether it be a church, a business or a billboard. But that sentiment struck me and stuck with me. Maybe we need reminding these days of how much we have, when it seems that complaints and unhappiness are often the order of the day. The day I happened to see those words was a cold, raw January afternoon when everything seemed a little bleak. The message was timely and timeless. Now that spring is here, it is a bit easier to count our blessings. But no matter the season of year there is always a lot to be thankful about. Time with friends and family, quiet moments in the early morning savoring a cup of coffee, the sound of birds, the first daffodils. Gentle rain on the roof, sunshine, small children who look at you with love. The promise of rebirth that Easter brings. Easter was a big deal when I was young. It signaled like nothing else that spring was here. Not much seemed to happen in Canton in those days. The stretch of school from Christmas to Easter was a long one, and I don’t remember getting many holidays. There was no winter break or spring break back then, nothing to relieve the monotony of gray days and chilly nights. Canton was a town of about 2,400, which seems pretty small by today’s standards, when it has topped 25,000. But despite its size, it was a thriving downtown with all sorts of businesses lining the streets. To put Canton in perspective, the neighboring city of Woodstock had only about 725 people living there in 1960 and that number increased to only 870 by 1970. But our little Southern neighbor has now grown to almost 29,000 living there. Cherokee County was a rural area dotted by friendly towns where everyone knew everyone. It was in so many ways an idyllic time. Back in those days those of us who called Canton home rare-
ly went anywhere else. Canton was the epicenter of my universe, whether it was at school at Canton Elementary on Academy Street, or the First Baptist Church of Canton on Sundays, or heading for a Coke at the soda fountain at Canton Drug Store. The Jones Mercantile Co. in the building that today is called the Jones Building dominated Main Street back then and offered a plethora of shopping opportunities with everything from groceries to clothing to furniture to hardware spread out over at least four floors. But it was not the only shopping mecca in Canton. We had several five and dime stores including Kessler’s with its toy area, where you could dream over Easter baskets and stuffed bunnies, or Rosenblum’s with its dresses, hats and shoes for ladies. Dressing up in our finest and going to church for Easter was a highlight. It was the time when you got new shoes and could don your hat and gloves. Sometimes I think the more we as a society have, the less we appreciate. Love of life is in the small things. My father taught me that. I am grateful to live in this community where no matter how large we have grown neighbors still care about neighbors, people help people and we all seem to work together to make it the best it can be. Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul. Those words from Henry Ward Beecher, written way back in the 1800s, are especially apt as we enjoy all the beauty of spring.
March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]
Tossing up healthy fare
Go Salad held a ribbon cutting with the Downtown Development Authority on Jan. 10. The business offers a variety of salads, soups and sandwiches.”
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Woodstock residents have a new and healthy option for finding a leafy green salad with the opening of Go Salad Woodstock. Located on Main Street in front of Sam’s Club, Go Salad Woodstock is the product of owner Phillip Wheeler’s desire to find a good salad at a decent price. After making salads in his own office, and seeing a similar restaurant concept in California, Wheeler planned to open his new restaurant that offers “healthy food fast.” “I decided to open so that you can get a good, quality salad at a fair price,” he said. “Even though we aren’t really a fast food restaurant, we make every single order as they come in.” For $5.99, restaurant goers can create their own salad by choosing from various greens, 12 dressings and classic toppings that include banana peppers, nuts and various cheeses. Go Salad Woodstock, does not just offer salads. The restaurant offers eight signature sandwiches, four varieties of chicken salad, tuna salad, pimento cheese and soups. Several specials and “secret menu” items are offered through the restaurant’s Facebook page. Go Salad Woodstock is located at 9550 Main Street, Woodstock.
Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]
Magazine Director Maguire nominated for Georgia Author of the Year in the First Novel Category Cherokee Life Director and career journalist Mark Wallace Maguire and his novel “Alexandria Rising” have been nominated for the 53rd Georgia Author of the Year Award (GAYA) in the First Novel category. The banquet, winners and finalists will be announced in June at an event at Kennesaw State University. The novel was independently published in October 2016 and has earned rave reviews by independent book reviewers, Goodreads, amazon and fellow authors. Boundless Book Reviews said: “It was suspenseful, and full of mystery and intrigue. It kept me on the edge of my seat.” Scott Douglas Vaughn, author, “Brookwood Road” and “Elm Street” wrote, “Maguire not only writes a great story – I couldn’t put it down over three days – but he writes a story that never scientifically walks away from the reader. He did a phenomenal job with his research.”
We recently spoke with Maguire about the novel. Tell our readers a little about your book. The novel follows the adventure of Rand O’Neal, an ambition-less newspaper reporter who is given a single request upon the death of his grandfather: Destroy a mysterious map. What should be a simple errand thrusts Rand into a journey across three countries chased by unknown pursuers and leads him into a world he never could have believed existed. The novel has been classified as science fiction, action-adventure and suspense and has strong elements of those genres in it.,
published, which features the best of my magazine and newspaper columns. That project was great, but getting that off the ground took out a significant chunk of time from writing “Alexandria Rising.” Then two weeks after that book was published, I was in a bicycle accident which left me unable to type for about three months. Those interruptions were frustrating at times, but also were a benefit as it gave me time to reflect on the book, see the ability for improvements, changes and such. As far as the process itself, the biggest challenge then and now is simply finding time to write. I like to say, ‘I write in the margins of life.’ With a full time job, a family and some side jobs, I write any time I can — lunch, late at night and dictating in the car.
How can people purchase your book? It is available at amazon.com, barnesandnoble. com and on other websites. I am in the process of adding more locations in metro Atlanta so residents can check my interactive website at www.alexandriarising.com. You can also follow my author page on Facebook to get updated details. “Alexandria Rising” also has a dedicated multi-media platform with a Youtube channel, Goodreads channel and Instagram feed.
What inspired this book? That’s an interesting question. There wasn’t one or two things in particular, rather, it was a combination of circumstances and ideas. I’d written two books prior — one non-fiction and one semi-autobiographical — but with “Alexandria Rising” I wanted to have fun writing it and the reader to have fun reading it. I was weary of writing in reality, you might say. That said, the inspiration, on one hand, was an outlet — a catharsis — for me to discover and create a world and characters outside of my existence. As far as other inspirations, I was intrigued by the idea of how little we really know of history, our world and our collective works as a species. I was also inspired by numerous authors’ works including Robert Ludlum, Dan Brown, Susanna L. Clarke, Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof (who wrote “Lost”), Clive Cussler and J.R.R. Tolkien.
How long did it take you to write it? Describe that process. I worked on the book off and on for over three years before it was published in October 2016. During that period, I also had a non-fiction book, “Letters from Red Clay Country” March/April 2017 | Cherokee Life
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By Sampson Jenkins >>> Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell
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hat better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than with a cold brew, fish and chips, and a Donovan’s horseshoe topped off with a warm and hearty shepherd’s pie at Woodstock’s very own family-owned Donovan’s Irish Cobbler. Jacob Donovan, son of owner Jim Donovan, or “Pop” as he is known, said their Irish pub has a variety of lucky food and drinks for all ages to enjoy.
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Right, Donovan’s home-cooked corned beef brisket, carved and served with steamed cabbage Mash potatoes and horseradish cream sauce. Donovan’s Irish Nachos, potato crisps topped with seasoned corned beef, Donovan’s Wisconsin Sharp Cheddar beer cheese sauce, shredded lettuce and jalapenos. Cherokee Life | March/April 2017
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