1-22 AroundWoodstock webfinal.pdf by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

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Contents January 2022

Contributors 47 Christopher Brazelton 35 Charlice Byrd

Page Relocation

22 Michael Caldwell

On the Cover

43 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Justin Page meets with client Lex Geddings to assure he has a stress-free experience. The company recently expanded to include a long-distance moving division.

30 Harry Johnston 42 Ann Litrel

40 Susannah O. MacKay

Pages 28 & 29

32 Rob Macmillan

Photo by Alexia Nicole Photography

46 John Rodgers

In the Limelight

A mother-daughter duo and theater directors share how the school district’s theater program helps students find their passion.

Our Mayor Takes Office

Woodstock’s new mayor (who’s not new to Woodstock) paves the way forward.

34 Gail Roos

38 Susan Schulz

20 Teddy the Spaz Man 26 Rhiannon Turner 19 Ashley Velez

24 Laine Kirby Wood

In Every Issue 4 Around Woodstock 8 Local News

13 Celebrations

32 Rob’s Rescues

36 Everyday Angels

44 Community Calendar 46 Library Events 48 Dining Guide

49 Recent Home Sales 50 School News

52 Cherokee Photo Club

54 Directory of Advertisers

One Dance at a Time

Local nonprofit improves the health and wellness of community members and spreads joy through its Special Olympics dance team, the Warrior Cats.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

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Around Woodstock Letter From the President

There is just something special about a new beginning — a new calendar year, a new school year, a new career, and more. This year brings a double dose of newness for me — a new career at the beginning of a new year. As each new year begins, I imagine myself on a game board of a 12-month calendar. This year will be the 2022 edition of the game of life, and what does this new edition have in store? The Lord has led me on many exciting journeys, and I look forward to what this edition of life holds, especially with this wonderful, new career. As the new president of Aroundabout Local Media, I look forward to continuing my active participation in the community with a new outlook. Aroundabout Local Media has a two-fold mission. We strive to provide hyperlocal, positive, relevant information for our readers and help local businesses grow and prosper by providing affordable advertising opportunities. With these two missions in mind, listening when I am “around and about” has become a fun part of the job. Listening to business owners, learning more about what they do, and finding those businesses that provide the services our readers want and need has become a new daily goal. Listening to our readers share ideas about what they value and would like to read about has provided for many interesting conversations. What a joy to be a part of this two-fold mission and be of use to our readers and advertisers. I would like to thank Jennifer Coleman and Patty Ponder for seeing something in me that led them to believe I could take on this new role. After having a conversation with these two dynamic ladies, I was introduced to our owner, Jon Flaig, who decided I would be a good fit for the role. Much trust is involved in these decisions, and I am honored to be trusted in this way. For our readers and advertisers, thank you so much for your continued loyalty to your magazine, your community. We are happy to play a part in your game of life as we show up in your mailbox each month. Check out the “Around & About” upcoming events, and let’s play!

Kim Dahnke is the president of Aroundabout Local Media. Send your comments or questions to kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

READERS’

CHOICE 2022 What’s New

Aroundabout Local Media, publishers of Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Kennesaw, Around Woodstock and the TowneLaker magazines, is using Second Street to create a new platform for our 2022 Readers’ Choice contest. The opportunities to support and promote local businesses will be greater than ever in this new format. Stay tuned for more details to be revealed on Jan. 15 at aroundwoodstockmagazine.com.

Lucky Cat has opened at 8632 Main St. in Woodstock. The casual bar and restaurant spot has a contemporary, globally inspired food and cocktail menu catered to adult guests. https://eatatluckycat.com.

Towne Lake Pediatric Speech has opened at 1700 River Park Blvd., Suite 101, in Woodstock, providing early intervention speech services in the areas of language delay, articulation disorder, fluency and autism. 850-228-8139. www.townelakespeech.com.

What’s Coming

The developers of Adair Park have announced Apricot Lane Boutique is the first retail shop to open in the

Woodstock development. The boutique will carry clothing with styles handpicked by the owner, Katie Koudele, a Woodstock native.

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Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | TowneLaker

Our Mission

Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.

Results With Us

“If any businessman/woman wants the most bang for their buck, advertise with Aroundabout Local Media! Every person involved in this magazine is a top-notch professional, and such a joy to work with.”

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com President Kim Dahnke 770-615-2779 kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com Vice President Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com Managing Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 katie@aroundaboutmagazines.com Assistant Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 jessica@aroundaboutmagazines.com Production Manager Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com

- Teena Regan, 22one Realty Co.

Graphic Designer Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Advertise With Us

Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 denise@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Jennifer Coleman, Vice President 678-279-5502 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Get Social With Us! E Q

@AroundWoodstockMagazine @around_woodstock

Around Woodstock, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Woodstock welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Woodstock, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Woodstock is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright 2022.

Volume 9, Issue 3

www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

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Local News

New Signs Mark Adopt-A-Mile Sites

The county’s Keep Cherokee Beautiful (KCB) organization is replacing current signs that mark the areas where volunteers are working to keep the county clean. KCB officials replaced signage for Peggy Simpson and Bo Wallace, who recently adopted a section of roadway in the Sutallee area, and currently are planning their third roadside cleanup event. Simpson, who had participated in the old program with her children, Rocky and Ree, was given the old road signs by KCB officials. “I plan to give the old signs to my children for them to have as keepsakes, because the signs have their names on them,” she said. The new Adopt-A-Mile program began earlier this year, and several local families and organizations have committed to keeping sections of roads across Cherokee clean. Those interested in adopting a mile will need to identify a section of county road they want to adopt and sign an agreement committing to maintain the section for 12 months and hold a minimum of four roadside cleanups. Once a cleanup has been scheduled, volunteers will be provided with cleanup supplies from Keep Cherokee Beautiful and Cherokee County, which include safety vests and grabbers. Trash and litter retrievals can be scheduled with the Cherokee County Recycling Center, or volunteers also can arrange for the disposal of the litter in private dumpsters. For additional information on adopting a mile, email cleancherokee@gmail.com.

Commissioner Benny Carter presents a sign to volunteers. 8

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Students and instructors take a minute out of the water.

First Responders Earn Open Water Certification Six Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) personnel recently were certified as Scuba Diver International (SDI) open water divers. The new divers are Capt. Jeff Adamek, Fire Apparatus Operator (FAO) Brad McDonald, FAO Drew Turner, Lt. Joe Ray, FAO Brandon Watkins and Lt. Philip Carlisle. “The open water certification course is the initial step in becoming a CCFES public safety diver. This is the first time this course has been instructed in-house by fire department personnel. This new program will increase the number of trained divers available to respond to water emergencies,” said dive instructor chief Ricky Collett. The course also consisted of online learning and more than 20 hours of in-water skills. The pool and classroom portions of the class were conducted at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center. The final certification dives were completed in Williston, Florida at the Blue Grotto Springs.

Retirement Ahead for Library System Director

Anita Summers, executive director of the Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS), has announced her plans to retire on Feb. 1. The new executive director, who is chosen by the board of trustees, will be named this month. Summers joined the Sequoyah system in July 1989 as branch manager of the Gilmer County Library in Ellijay. She was named assistant director of the library system in Anita Summers 2008, and executive director in 2014. As executive director, she oversaw all aspects of public library operations in the three-county system, covering Cherokee, Pickens and Gilmer counties. Under her leadership, the system experienced growth in circulation and program attendance, expanded service hours and digital resources, increased staff pay, expanded staff development and training, increased library outreach and visibility, established new partnerships, began the growth of a Library of Things collection, and added new library technology. During her tenure, the library system obtained state capital outlay grants to supplement special-purpose local-option sales tax funds for the upcoming expansion/renovation of the Hickory Flat Public Library. In 2020, Summers led the system’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which included virtual programming, outdoor Wi-Fi, sidewalk service, and a phased approach to the restoration of full library services and hours. “I am very blessed to have been part of a forward-thinking system with supportive trustees, dedicated staff and library-loving communities,” Summers said.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Local News

Cherokee County Resident Appointed to ARC Lifelong resident Steve Stancil will serve as Cherokee County’s citizen representative on the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), beginning Jan. 1. He will succeed Dennis Burnette, who has served as the District 15 representative for more than decade. “Cherokee County greatly appreciates Dennis Burnette’s 14 years of faithful and diligent service as our citizen representative on the ARC Board. In particular, Dennis served on the Senior Services Committee of that board and ensured that Cherokee’s Senior Services programs have continued to be mostly funded through the ARC,” said County Commission Chairman Harry Johnston. Burnette began his service on the ARC Board in 2008. His professional life included 45 years in the banking industry, with more Steve Stancil than 30 years as a bank president. Before fully retiring, he worked as a certified mediator and arbitrator for businesses. Stancil retired from the state of Georgia in 2019, following 11 years as a state property officer. Previous to that, he oversaw the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority Board, as its executive director, and served as a representative in the Georgia House of Representatives, including minority house leader. Cherokee County is part of the 11-county Atlanta Regional Commission, a metropolitan planning organization that spearheads longrange planning from a regional perspective, disperses federal funding for transportation projects that impact the region, promotes a skilled workforce through training and skills development, and more. Also during the November meeting of the ARC board, an updated at-large district boundary map was adopted that takes into account the population growth since the 2010 Census. District 15 includes the majority of Cherokee County and a portion of Fulton County. District 14 includes a small portion of Cherokee County and one-third of Cobb County. 10

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

A Cool Community Effort

Members of the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program recently stepped in to help a local veteran who has had no heat or air conditioning in his home for six years. Coming to his rescue were veterans program volunteers and members of the St. Vincent De Paul organization at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Woodstock. Vito LaSelva, owner of Mercury Control Heating and Air, donated his services and a unit at cost. To learn how to help veterans through this program, contact Jim Lindenmayer at jimlindenmayer80@gmail.com.

Marshal’s office representatives present statement of support to Chief Tim Prather.

Agency Workers Bond After Tragedy Representatives with the Cherokee County Marshal’s Office recently visited the offices of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services to show their support for Jacob Hicks, the 2-year-old son of Justin and Amber Hicks, who tragically were killed by a shooter last month. A letter from the Marshal’s Office was presented to Cherokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather: “We cannot put into words how heavy our hearts are for the loss of Justin and Amber Hicks. Nothing we say or do would ease your pain, but we wanted each of you to know that you have our support. The loss of two precious lives has changed our community forever.” “In October of each year we make a donation to one charity or foundation in Cherokee County, but this year we were uncertain about where we wanted the money to go, so we held onto it,” Deputy Marshal First Class Renae Goggans said. “However, when this tragic incident took place, we all came together and decided the money should go to Jacob’s trust fund.” The representatives from the Marshal’s Office told Prather that Cherokee County Probation, Animal Control and the Marshal’s Office made a donation of $1,050 to the LGE Credit Union trust fund for Jacob Hicks.

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March 25-26

“The Drowsy Chaperone”

Etowah High School. There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on March 26. General admission tickets are $12. Tickets are $10 for senior citizens and children, age 12 and younger. Tickets are $8 for thespians and drama club members.

“Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” Creekland Middle School. 5 p.m. on March 26. Ticket price to be determined.

April 21-23

“Big Fish” The Academy Street Theatre Group 2020 production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”

The Curtain Rises Productions in 2022 As the spring semester begins, we’ve included a list of Cherokee County School District theater productions. For many shows, advance tickets will be for sale online. Whenever there is a link, it will be posted to www.cherokeek12.net/news/ ccsdtheatre2122. Otherwise, anyone interested in purchasing tickets can contact the school front office for information. Performances are at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted. On Pages 14-15, you'll read about the experiences of directors and a parent and student, and how the theater program impacts everyone involved.

Feb. 10-11

Jan. 21-22, 24-26

March 24-26

“G2K Footloose”

River Ridge High School. There also is a 3 p.m. matinee on Jan. 22. Tickets are $7.

Jan. 28-29

“James and the Giant Peach”

Woodstock High School. There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on Jan. 28. Ticket price to be determined. 12

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

“The Last Day of School”

Academy Street Theatre Group performs at River Ridge High School. Tickets are $5.

Feb. 10-13

“Xanadu Jr.” and “Legally Blonde Jr.” Creekview High School. 7:30 p.m., and a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Feb. 13. Adult tickets are $15; student tickets are $12.

Feb. 16-17

“The Magic Treehouse: Pirates Past Noon” Cherokee High School. Tickets are $5.

“Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella”

Sequoyah High School. Adult tickets are $15; student tickets are $12.

March 25-26 “Lost Girl”

Cherokee High School. Tickets are $5.

Cherokee High School. There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on April 23. Tickets are $10.

“High School Musical”

Woodstock High School. There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on April 23. Ticket price to be determined.

April 22-23

“Sister Act, Jr.”

Dean Rusk Middle School. There also is a 1 p.m. matinee on April 23. Tickets are $5.

April 22-23, 25-27 “The Butler Did It”

River Ridge High School. There also is a 3 p.m. matinee on April 23. Tickets are $10.

May 6-7

“Puffs: Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic” Etowah High School. General admission tickets are $10. Tickets are $7 for thespians and drama club members, senior citizens and children, ages 12 and younger.

June 2-4

“Shrek the Musical”

Academy Street Theatre Group performs at Cherokee High School. Tickets are $5.

Celebrations!

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Happy first birthday, AudieBoo! You are so loved! Grammy and Papa Smith, Grandpa and Mimi Chastain, PopPop Levenglick, and Gigi and Papa Cox

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Asher

Happy, happy 10th birthday, Asher! We love you so very much! Mom, Dad, Britton and Jenson

Maddox Atlas

Welcome to the world, Maddox Atlas. Mommy, Daddy and Izzy love you so much!

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

The Cu Magic of Theatre Inspires Students Cherokee County School District (CCSD) high schools present shows throughout the school year, as well as select middle schools and the districtwide Academy Street Theatre Group program for elementary through high school students. With the help of CCSD staff, and a student and parent, we learned how the theater program inspires students and further connects them to the community. “The theater is a magical place for students to grow and learn, trying their hands at many different aspects. They can learn tech and be the magicians behind the scenes, learn to build sets, become a prop master, help make or resource costumes, learn music and choreography, manage the stage, or completely transform into a different character and act! There is a place for everyone who desires to be a part of something bigger than they can imagine, a place where magic actually does exist.” — Jodi Burn, director of the Cherokee High School theater program

Ava Grace performs in “The Dragon King,” February 2019. Right, Ava Grace in the spring 2019 production of “Newsies,” her favorite show with the Academy Street Theatre Group. 14

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

rtain Rises for 2022 What a Difference a Play Makes

Kristi Roberts and daughter Ava Grace share their experiences with the Academy Street Theatre Group. Now a student at Sequoyah High School, Ava Grace has been a part of ASTG since second grade.

Kristi and Daniel Roberts with Ava at the performance of “Something Rotten” last spring.

Onstage With Academy Street Theatre

The Academy Street Theatre Group (ASTG) is an arts in education extension of the Cherokee County School District, offering students in grades 2-12 onstage and offstage opportunities in theater production. ASTG has staged more than 50 productions, including 30 presentations of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” as well as “Music Man,” “Newsies” and “Singin’ in the Rain,” to name a few. “Live theater requires an extremely diverse set of skills. My favorite part about theater is that the stage is where written word, music, dance, movement and visual arts come together with science and technology, to create something new every single time the curtain rises. It’s a space full of potential that allows students to gather together, to tell stories and learn about life. It’s a place where, regardless of your strength or strong suit, there is a way for you to shine and learn. As the director of the ASTG, a countywide program, I am unbelievably fortunate in that I get to work with students from every public school in the county. I get to see unlikely friendships forged and skills developed as students share what they’ve learned from their school directors and take some new ideas and skills from ASTG back to their home stages.” — Reed Christian, director of Academy Street Theatre Group

As a parent, it is a wonderful thing when your child finds his or her “thing,” or passion. My daughter, Ava Grace Roberts, fell in love with acting and performing onstage at a very young age. We have been so blessed that the Cherokee County School District has an arts in education program like ASTG! Ava Grace has been a part of ASTG since the second grade, and she has been able to perform in approximately 20 productions, so far. ASTG and the amazing director, Reed Christian, have given our daughter a creative outlet to explore and build on her talents and do what she loves. All the experiences and wonderful opportunities she has had with ASTG have given her the confidence and helped catapult her into exploring acting and theater professionally. Ava Grace recently played Louisa von Trapp in “The Sound of Music” with City Springs Theatre Company, where she shared the stage with several Broadway actors, and was directed by Tony Award-winner Shuler Hensley. We are incredibly grateful to CCSD, Reed Christian and ASTG for providing such an amazing opportunity for our daughter, and all the CCSD theater-loving kids! — Kristi Roberts I discovered that I loved acting when I was 5 years old, after I took a local children’s theater class. I couldn’t wait to get into second grade, so that I could start auditioning for productions with ASTG. I have learned so much from our awesome director, Reed Christian, our talented choreographer, Cindi Bekas, and so many others. Most elementary and middle schools do not have drama programs, and that is why I am so grateful that our school system has ASTG. I have been able to perform in two to three productions a year with ASTG, and I have met so many friends from all over the county who love performing, too. ASTG is like a family to me, and I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had to do what I love with them. — Ava Grace AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Help Save Lives

Blood from Black donors is needed urgently to help patients with sickle cell disease.

Resolve to Give Blood at a Red Cross Location Near You National Blood Donor Month has been observed in January since 1970, and recognizes the importance of giving blood and platelets while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need. The community is invited to help save lives by donating blood at the Cobb Red Cross Blood, Platelet and Plasma Donation Center at East Lake Shopping Center, 2145 Roswell Road in Marietta, or at another community blood drive scheduled in the area. The winter months can be especially difficult to collect enough blood and platelets to meet patient needs. Inclement weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can prevent some donors from making or keeping appointments to give. Blood donors with all blood types are encouraged to make an appointment to give. Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions — including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status — have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.

How to Help

To make an appointment, or to learn more about blood drive locations, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass online health history questionnaire is encouraged to speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass, or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at checkin. Individuals who are 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weight at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood, according to Georgia’s regulations. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters, supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, teaches skills that save lives, distributes international humanitarian aid and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org  or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.   The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Key Messages

• If you’re feeling healthy and well, your blood donation is needed now to help meet the needs of hospital patients. • The Red Cross continues to address a nationwide blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are needed to give now, to ensure blood is available when patients need it. • A diverse blood supply is important. Donors of all ethnicities are needed. A patient is more likely to find a compatible blood match from a donor of the same race or a similar ethnic group. • Help ensure blood is available to those with sickle cell disease when they need it. Blood donations from individuals who are Black are needed urgently to help meet the needs of patients with sickle cell disease. Find more information at RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood. • Eligibility questions? Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

Local Blood Drives

Jan. 3

Northstar Church

3413 Blue Springs Road, Kennesaw 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Jan. 4

Hillside United Methodist Church 4474 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock 2:30-7:30 p.m.

Jan. 6

Cherokee Presbyterian Church 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Jan. 7

Orange UMC

220 Orange Circle Road, Canton 2-7 p.m.

Jan. 8

Good Shepherd Lutheran

1208 Rose Creek Blvd., Woodstock 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Jan. 10

Woodstock First Baptist 11905 Highway 92 2-7 p.m.

Jan. 11

Wellstar Cherokee Health Park 1120 Wellstar Way, Holly Springs 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Jan. 12

Kennesaw First UMC 1801 Ben King Road 2-7 p.m.

Jan. 13

Hickory Flat Fellowship Church 5301 Hickory Flat Highway 2-7 p.m.

Jan. 14

Canton City Hall 110 Academy St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Jan. 18

Canton American Legion 150 McClure St. 12:30-5:30 p.m.

Jan. 20

Hickory Flat Fellowship Church 5301 Hickory Flat Highway 2-7 p.m.

Jan. 22

Woodstock Christian Church

Kennesaw First Baptist

7700 Highway 92 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Legacy Park

St. Clements Episcopal Church

2958 N. Main St. 3-8 p.m.

4201 Legacy Park Circle, Kennesaw 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Jan. 24

2795 Ridge Road, Canton 2:45-7:45 p.m.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

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110 Brunes Way, Ball Ground, GA 30107 770-224-8184 • PageRelocation.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

A Year in Preview: Plans for 2022 BY HARRY JOHNSTON

Happy New Year! Let’s pray and work together to make it a great one. Last month, I covered what the board of commissioners completed in 2021. Now, let’s look at the 2022 to-do list. First, voters approved renewal of the school SPLOST, and we expect to put the renewal/continuation of the county SPLOST for nonschool projects, for 2024-2030, on the November ballot. That’s the last scheduled election before the current six-year SPLOST expires. At least half of the proceeds will go to county road improvements. The Cherokee County Justice Center, which seemed huge when it was finished 27 years ago, now is packed to the rafters and also must be expanded. Remaining funds largely will go to parks and public safety facilities and equipment. Next, state funding for the Bells Ferry widening and bridge work has been delayed, postponing those projects at least a year. We must make sure there are no further delays to those projects. We need to line up funding for the rest of our planned interim improvements to Highway 140, to allow it to function acceptably until the state can widen it in the mid 2030s. We must make the most of the update to our Comprehensive Transportation Plan, our long-term guide to road work, and the funding necessary for it. It’s time for a state-mandated update to the county’s Land Use Plan (the guide for managing the county’s growth and development during the next 25 years, and the template for future zoning decisions). We need to join with the cities to make it a true countywide plan. Full citycounty cooperation on growth will be far more effective than our often-disjointed efforts of the past. Additionally, we need to figure out how best to leverage available federal dollars to help the homeless people in our county, and get that work started. We need to determine the best location for the courthouse parking deck, building it to make way for the main expansion. We need to implement a planned adjustment to the county’s pension plan for new employees, to lower its long-term cost.

Overall, we must never let up and continue to pursue our triple goals: 1. Manage the county’s growth to preserve quality of life. 2. Keep infrastructure and services up with the growth. 3. Keep taxes among the lowest in Georgia. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts. Email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.

Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services, 1060 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta. This cat’s name is Nadine. She is 5 years old and a small, soft and furry cat. She is an owner turn-in. She would be the perfect cat to have, because she just wants to be with you, and does not complain about anything.

Rob with Malissa Birchall of Kitty Up Cat Rescue.

I interviewed Malissa Birchall, who is the founder of Kitty Up Cat Rescue (kittyupcatrescue.org), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Dallas, Georgia.

What is the focus of Kitty Up?

To save as many cats as we can. We arrange transports north, for dogs and cats, and we work with other cat rescues to find placements for stray cats. Spay and neuter is a huge part of what we do; it takes up 80% of our budget. We pull cats from everywhere, especially the Bartow County shelter. Every month, I send five feline leukemia cats to Austin Pets Alive in Texas. We help wherever we can, and foster a couple of dogs, too. This dog’s name is Willie. He is a 4-year-old beagle. He was a stray. He is a very mellow dog, so he would be easy to have as a companion or a family dog. He loves being outside and is easy to handle.

When did you start Kitty Up and why?

August 2018. I am a vet tech and have worked with many rescues. I live in Paulding County, and I realized there was no cat rescue in the county, and it was desperately needed. There is a lot of education needed about TNR (trap-neuterreturn). Many people regard cats as pests, as opposed to friends.

What is a story that you like to tell?

I like to tell people about a cat called Catra. She was found in Bartow County in a dumpster, hanging by a rope around her neck, with her arm trapped in the rope. We rescued her and had to amputate the arm (her arm between the rope and her neck was the only reason she didn’t die in there). She was adopted by an amazing family.

How many cats have you helped since you started? More than 3,000. Last year we transported 1,400.

What do you want the community to know about Kitty Up, and how can they help you?

We are here to help. We have a food closet with cat and dog food for people that need it. We provide TNR and vaccines. We do a lot of networking in the rescue community. We are 100% donation based. Food donations always are needed, especially Friskies paté and Purina cat food. We always need blankets, sheets and towels, too.

Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

food, drink, music & more!

MARCH 24 - 27, 2022 | JIM R. MILLER PARK, MARIETTA, GA The Georgia Food + Wine Festival celebrates the best of Georgia and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts to its farmers, artisans, live musicians and more.

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IN WDSTK PRESENTS

STATE OF THE CITY FRIDAY JANUARY 2 1 , 2022 7:45 AM

MARK YOUR CALENDER FOR THE MAYOR'S ANNUAL PRESENTATION + BREAKFAST. Ticket and location info at inwdstk.org

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Winter Planting

Bare-Root Rose BY GAIL ROOS

Winter is a great time to purchase and plant rose bushes, available as bare-root plants or potted in containers. Those in containers can be planted at other times of the year, but, for the bare-root plant, winter is the time. The health and beauty of mature rose bushes depends on proper planting technique, subsequent care and the health of the plant you purchase. When buying a rose bush, consider a local, reputable nursery, a rose grower or a trusted online source. Before purchasing, ask or research how the rose will perform here, in U.S. Department of Agriculture Zone 7. Don’t panic when you get your plants, and they look like a bundle of dead sticks. Bare-root is an accurate description. They are not dead, only dormant. To give your roses the best chance of a long, healthy life, protect the roots if you are not planting immediately. Soaking the roots in a bucket of water for 12 hours keeps them from drying out and replaces moisture lost during transportation and storage. Here are six planting considerations that will help you get your roses off to the best start.

Proper planting ensures bare-root rose bushes bloom, healthy and beautiful.

After you have chosen the best plant, pick a site. Roses require a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day. If some shade during the day can’t be avoided, pick a site with the most morning sun. Morning sun helps dry dew from foliage and reduces leaf diseases.

Dig a hole 12-18 inches deep and 24 inches wide. Clean out any rocks and debris. The hole has to be large enough to accommodate the root system without crowding. Trim away any dead and diseased roots.

When preparing the soil, our red clay must be amended. Roses require a well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral pH. A soil test in advance of the season will ensure that you have the right pH, and, if not, you’ll have an opportunity to prepare the planting site and correct the soil. If you’re planting multiple rose bushes, it’s a good idea to prepare the soil in an entire bed, and plan spacing of 3-4 feet between plants, depending on the expected size of the mature bush. Mix 3 inches of organic matter, such as composted pine bark or manure, thoroughly into the hole or the bed.

To set the plant at the correct depth, and make it easy to spread out the roots in the hole, make a conelike mound of soil in the middle of each space where a plant will go. The top of the mound should position the plant so that the bud union (where the root stock is grafted to the upper portion of the rose) is at or above ground level. Place the rose on top of the mound, making sure the bud union is positioned correctly; then, spread the roots out and down into the hole. Add soil, shaking the soil down to settle it. Then, add water. Continue to alternate the soil mixture and water, but don’t pack the soil.

Prune to three to five canes, and cut each cane back to about 4-6 inches, to an outward facing bud.

The last task, especially if there is a chance of frost, is to mulch around your new plant for a week or two. As any threat of frost passes, remove the mulch. With a good-quality plant and proper planting, your rose bushes will reward you with their beauty.

Gail Roos, lifetime Georgian and Woodstock resident since 1978, has been a Cherokee County Master Gardener volunteer since early 2007.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

2022 Regular Session, A New Chapter Begins BY CHARLICE BYRD

At the end of November, the Georgia General Assembly convened for the final day of the 2021 special legislative session. The adjournment of the last day of a legislative session is commonly referred to as sine die, a Latin term that means without assigning a day for further meeting. On this session’s final day, the Georgia House of Representatives voted on Senate Bill 2EX. The House Legislative and Congressional Reapportionment Committee held a public hearing and approved Senate Bill 2EX, which updated the map of Georgia’s 14 congressional districts. After being scheduled for a vote on the House floor, the bill, which was the last piece of legislation that the General Assembly needed to pass to complete this special session, was passed. The House adjourned shortly after the bill’s passage. All legislation related to the redistricting process that passed in the House and Senate was sent to the governor for his signature. If the bills for the legislative and congressional maps are signed into law, they will be implemented by election officials for the next election cycle in November 2022. The redistricting process saw some big changes for Cherokee County’s legislative representation. You can view the new legislative and congressional district maps on the nonpartisan Legislative and Congressional Reapportionment Office’s website (legis.ga.gov/ joint-office/reapportionment), under the Proposed Plans section.

Our focus turns to the 2022 regular legislative session, beginning Jan. 10. There still is unfinished business from the last session, such as House Bill 228, the election integrity bill I introduced last year. Additionally, I will push to pass House Bill 290, the Patient and Resident Representation and Visitation Act, which seeks to restore and protect visitation rights for patients in hospitals and long-term care facilities. During the past year, these facilities implemented policies that keep Georgia families apart, and it was proved through the pandemic that we need each other more than ever. The legislation passed the House overwhelmingly, and currently sits in the Senate for final passage. I will meet with constituents throughout our district during the holiday season, and spend time with family ahead of the 2022 regular session. I encourage you to email me at charlice@ charlicebyrd.com regarding legislative issues important to you and our community. As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative in Cherokee County.

Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives.charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

EVERYDAY

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.”

- Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Happy New Year, beautiful people! Everyday Angels begins 2022 by helping our South Cherokee Recreation Association (SCRA) softball community help one of their own: Coach Christina Kirby, and her youngest daughter, Bella. May her story serve as a reminder of the importance of community when you are faced with the unthinkable. “I knew something wasn’t right. For a month, my little girl wasn’t feeling well. She had been seen by several doctors who treated her symptoms, but nothing was making her better. She had been vomiting for a month, and it was getting more frequent. Deep down, I knew something was off. Before sending Bella home with a feeding tube, I insisted that an MRI be performed. My gut suspicion was confirmed when the MRI revealed an 8-centimeter tumor on my little girl’s brain,” Christina said. On Oct. 25, 2021, Bella Kirby, 2, was diagnosed with grade 2 ependymoma. Ependymoma is a very rare form of Bella Kirby cancerous tumor that starts in the brain or spinal cord. It can happen in children and adults. The symptoms of this tumor depend upon the area of the brain that is affected. In Bella’s case, the tumor is located in the area of the brain that controls eating, talking and swallowing. Two hours later, emergency surgery was performed to relieve fluid on Bella’s brain. Several days later, a 10-hour surgery was performed to carefully remove her tumor. Because her tumor wrapped around her brain stem, surgeons were not able to remove all of it. Following surgery, Bella developed pneumonia and was in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), with respiratory issues, for four weeks. Bella has yet to return home. “We knew the recovery from the tumor recession surgery wasn’t going to be easy, but nothing could ever prepare us for the reality of it. I watched my spunky 2-year-old little girl go from full of sass and energy to not being able to walk, or talk, or even hold her head up. I felt like I was back to having a newborn. But let me tell you what: this strong little warrior has taken this bull by 36

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

the horns and is overcoming all the obstacles,” Christina said. “As we finally moved from PICU to the AFLAC floor for children with blood disorders, it hit me that I am a mother with a child with cancer. We haven’t really used that word, because it’s such a sad and nasty word. But that word is now our reality,” she said. Christina has spent the past three years involved in the SCRA softball program, where she has coached her 5-year-old daughter Sophia’s team. Last year, Bella began playing T-ball. From the beginning, the SCRA softball family has rallied behind Christina and her daughters, praying and fundraising. “They even created a GoFundMe account that has allowed me to solely focus on Bella, since I am unable to work. Their love and support has meant so much to me and my girls,” Christina said. Christina has not left Bella’s side since this nightmare began. “I am thankful for my husband, who has been there since the beginning, and for my family, who has helped with my older daughter. There are many unknowns ahead and, most days, it is overwhelming. We take it day to day now, not looking too far ahead, and remain thankful for each one of them. We are excited to get to a place where we can return home as she recovers,” she said. We ask our readers to simply send a small amount to Christina through Everyday Angels or GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/7c155eaf. If the SCRA family can help, imagine what an entire community can do for them. Please keep Bella and Christina in your prayers.

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www. everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal, or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

The Warrior Cats dance team performed the “Fancy Like” dance at the Woodstock Applebee’s.

Paying It Forward Through Fitness BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Fitfully Forward founder, Laura Mikszan, with Special Olympics DanceSport Ambassador Louis Van Amstel. 38

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

As the founder and former owner of World of Gymnastics, Laura Mikszan spent her career focused on physical fitness. After selling her business, she decided to turn her attention to helping those less fortunate and founded the nonprofit Fitfully Forward. “Since I was a little girl, I remember having a burning desire to help others and make them feel good about themselves,” Mikszan said. “I launched Fitfully Forward with the sole purpose of improving the health and wellness of our community members. We center our efforts on the under-resourced, those who do not have access to facilities or resources — individuals with special needs, underprivileged children and families, the aging and veterans. We exist to ensure these populations receive opportunities for fitness and dance to improve overall health, physically, mentally and emotionally.”

Mikszan gained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in April 2021, and she and her team developed three main programs to achieve Fitfully Forward’s mission.

1. Warriors of Wonder (WOW).

The WOW program uses fitness as a mechanism to stimulate discussions for future planning and goal setting for high-functioning adults on the autism spectrum.

2. Pay it Forward.

The Pay it Forward peer facility program is for individuals on the autism spectrum who are aging out of high school.

3. Outreach.

Partnering with community organizations through the Outreach program, Fitfully Forward staff members serve local children, seniors and veterans to bring fitness programs to their location.

Fitfully Forward also is involved with the Special Olympics, and has gained team status under the umbrella of the DanceSport division. Mikszan’s connection with Louis Van Amstel from “Dancing with the Stars” inspired this involvement. Van Amstel is the creator of the renowned dance fitness program, LaBlast. Van Amstel created LaBlast after seeing dramatic body transformations that some of his dance partners achieved while on the show. Mikszan, a certified LaBlast instructor, was named 2020 Instructor of the Year and uses this method of dance in her fitness programs. Van Amstel held open LaBlast classes at Madlife Stage and Studios in Woodstock, as well as the Cherokee Recreation Center, with Mikszan before her nonprofit gained official status. He came to Cherokee County to help implement a pilot program in Georgia and to help raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics DanceSport. “Dance is such a powerful way to unify people across age, fitness level and abilities,” Mikszan said. “The LaBlast fitness program works great with our participants. It is easy for them to catch on and, at the same time, provides a great workout.” Van Amstel, three-time World Dance Champion, has been named the Special Olympics Dance Ambassador. He joined forces with celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzenagger, Jason Mraz and Princess Charlene of Monaco to celebrate the world’s largest sports organization for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. “I’m so proud of all the athletes involved in the Special Olympics. They might be diagnosed with a disability, but they sure focus on their abilities!” Van Amstel said. He is returning to Madlife on Jan. 28 to raise funds for the Special Olympics DanceSport team. Fitfully Forward’s Special Olympics Cherokee County dance team, led by Cora Browning, is called the Warrior Cats. “I love the Special Olympics dance

The Warrior Cats perform at the Great Pumpkin Fest in Cherokee Veterans Park.

Members of the Warrior Cats enjoy Canton Christmas Parade fun.

team, because it offers the opportunity for individuals in my community to express themselves through movement,” Browning said. “I also love being a captain. I have never been one before. Many girls like me, on the spectrum and with Turner syndrome, don’t get the opportunity to be a captain, so it is really cool that I got the chance!” For more information and volunteer opportunities, visit fitfullyforward.org. Stay tuned for details on the visit from Van Amstel, Dance-A-Thons, 5Ks and more.

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Bridging The Gap to Volunteers BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY

The events of the last few years have touched every member of our community. From isolation and loneliness to job loss and hunger, we have all come through this difficult time in need of encouragement and support. There is one answer to this challenge that can strengthen everyone: service. The simple act of serving helps those in need, and heals those who serve. There is something each of us can do, individually or with our families, clubs or faithbased organizations. But, sometimes, it’s hard to know how to get started. If you’re looking for service opportunities in our area, JustServe. org is a free nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations. The goal of JustServe is to unify and strengthen communities, and the tool’s popularity recently has grown in the metro Atlanta area. By providing organizations with another resource for recruiting volunteers, and allowing volunteers an easy way to identify opportunities, JustServe is helping communities pull together and meet needs where they are happening. 40

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

In our area, JustServe has partnered with nonprofits including MUST Ministries, Simple Needs Georgia (SNGA) and more. “MUST Ministries is so grateful for the JustServe platform, which helps us find amazing volunteers to serve our neighbors in need,” said Angel Radford, MUST Ministries’ director of volunteer services. “We can always depend on the JustServe volunteers to come with a servant’s heart and work hard. We love being able to partner with them to advance the work in our community.” A partnership with Aroundabout Local Media will showcase different service opportunities monthly. If you run a nonprofit or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out JustServe. org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about nearby organizations, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve. Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.

Sign Me Up!

1. MUST Ministries Mobile Pantry.

The MUST Ministries Mobile Pantry bus visits locations throughout Cherokee and Cobb counties for pop-up food pantries. Volunteers, ages 12 and older, meet the bus at the location and help set up the pantry, assist clients with food needs, and tear down the pantry at the end of the event. https://bit.ly/3djfE5K.

2. Simple Needs Georgia Comfort Kits. When new guests arrive in local homeless shelters, they often do not have much with them. To help them feel more comfortable, SNGA provides them with a duffel bag containing toiletries and other items they will need during their stay. You can help by purchasing items, donating money toward the project or putting the bags together. https://bit.ly/3doampn.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Winter Snapshots

5 Elements of a Certified Wildlife Habitat ART AND TEXT BY ANN LITREL

In 2021, more than 140 Eagle Watch residents joined efforts to certify their yards and create Cherokee County’s first certified wildlife habitat community through the National Wildlife Federation. What makes a yard a wildlife habitat? To be certified, homeowners work through a checklist of five basics needed to help wildlife in a suburban yard, including food sources, cover and water. Here are a few winter snapshots from my yard that illustrate the elements of a certified wildlife habitat:

4. Dense shrubbery at the front of my house Places to Raise Young

Goldfinches and sparrows flit through the delicate stems and dried leaves of native coneflowers and sunflowers in my back garden, feasting on plump seed heads. Squirrels and blue jays chatter nearby, stripping pine seeds from the cones under my pine trees, now that the acorns mostly are gone.

provides a prime nesting spot for the summer catbirds (who like to be close to the blueberries). Several beds of native flowers and grasses shelter the young of butterflies and moths, who have made their respective chrysalises or cocoons to survive the winter. Dormant eggs among the dried leaves will hatch as caterpillars, the primary food for baby songbirds, who cannot digest seeds.

2. A pair of resident chickadees alights on the

5. There are two things I do in my yard that are

Food Sources

Water Sources

edge of my small, backyard pond for a sip of water. A fox from the woods across the street appears ghostlike in the early morning, as his usual source of water has frozen solid. Next door, my neighbor keeps a birdbath with a little heater to keep her song birds happy when temperatures dip below freezing. In the quiet, I can hear their songs some days.

3. Cardinals fluff

Places for Cover

their feathers against the cold in the branches of Carolina hemlocks at the corner of my house. There, they hide from the sharp eyes of the hawk, who patrols overhead. A brush pile at the edge of the yard harbors countless small creatures, from insects to salamanders.

The liquid song of the Carolina wren tells me he has found this cache — for him, a breakfast buffet of bugs. At the bottom of my pond, waterlogged leaves hide the three bronze frogs who have made their home there. During winter, their heart and respiratory rates slow, but, come spring, they will hop back up on the rocks to bask in the sun.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Sustainable Gardening Practices

the most important for making it healthy for wildlife: nontoxic weed control and increasing mulch. I’ve found practical, nontoxic solutions for weed and insect control, such as organic slow-release fertilizer for healthy grass, a pedestal fan to blow away mosquitos and picaridin mosquito lotion for outside activities, so that birds, bees and butterflies can thrive here safely. Turf grass is no man’s land when it comes to feeding wildlife. I’ve shrunk turf areas and enlarged natural mulched islands. Dead leaves in the naturalized areas under my trees not only act as fertilizer and mulch, but also as butterfly nurseries. The leaves of an oak tree feed the caterpillars of more than 500 species of moths and butterflies.

Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.

6 Tips to Improve Bladder Control BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

According to the American Urological Association, the definition of urinary incontinence (UI) is the involuntary loss of urine. It’s common in women of all ages and is typically caused by childbirth, aging, hormonal changes or even a persistent cough. Incontinence can have a profound impact on a woman’s life, causing sufferers to avoid social situations and shy away from their favorite activities. Some of the simplest things can trigger bladder leakage, such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, jogging or picking up your baby. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that can be implemented to help you stay in control, so you can enjoy a stress-free life.

1. Drink up (but not too much). Drinking enough fluids is important to avoid concentrated urine, which can be irritating to the bladder. But, drinking too much water can wreak havoc if you have UI. Aim to drink about two quarts (eight cups) of water daily to keep your bladder and kidneys healthy. 2. Skip the caffeine. Cola, chocolate and coffee, oh my! Yes, we do love our caffeine, but you’re doing yourself no favor by drinking products with caffeine. It can be hard to avoid altogether, so try to cut back. 3. Stick to a schedule. You may not feel like you have to go, but you should try to head to the bathroom on a regular, more frequent schedule, because empty bladders can’t leak. Shoot for every two hours and adjust as you go to fit your schedule. 4. Squeeze before you sneeze. Kegel exercises can help strengthen your pelvic muscles and, in turn, help prevent accidents. Aim to do them regularly throughout the day; the more you do, the stronger you’ll make your muscles. 5. Discuss medication side effects. The medication you are taking may have diuretic effects, and you may not know it. Talk with your physician to make sure you’re not taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs that could be making your UI worse. 6. Lose weight. Extra weight on the abdomen means more pressure is applied to the bladder; losing weight can help control UI. If you are affected by UI, talk to your doctor. UI is more common than people think, so don’t be shy! Your doctor can help you find the best treatment, and the solution may be simpler than you think.

James Haley, MD, FACOG and FPMRS, is an OB-GYN and urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health in Canton and Woodstock. AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Around & About JANUARY

Through January

Cherokee County Senior Services in Canton is requesting donations of gently used, large-print books for its Side of Books program. Mystery, fiction and nonfiction are the most requested genres. Drop off books in the office, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., or drop them off after hours in the book container, located behind the building. Email jnmceuen@ cherokeega.com with questions.

8 Bring one for the chipper,

9 a.m.-4 p.m., to Olde Rope Mill Park in Woodstock. Trees should be unbound and free of decorations. They will be recycled into mulch or used for fish habitats. For more information, visit www.kgbf.org.

10, 12 Woodstock Winter Cornhole Leagues The seven-week, Monday and Wednesday

, beginning Jan. 10 and Jan. 12, will be held at the Elm Street Event Green. Play times to be scheduled for 6:30, 7:10, 7:50 or 8:15 p.m. Registration for both leagues ends Jan. 3. https://bit.ly/3lmPZ0s.

Join Wreath Removal and Clean Up Day, 9 a.m. at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton. Everyone is welcome to help remove the wreaths that were laid in December for Wreaths Across America. Signing up is not necessary. https://bit.ly/3G4CYka.

19 Wednesdays

Join Northside Hospital experts for Wellness , a virtual health presentation every Wednesday at noon. This week’s presentation is led by Dr. Hira Kohli of Suwanee Primary Care. For registration, visit www.northside.com/community-wellness/classes-events.

An electronics recycling event is set for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Woodstock. The fundraiser will offset technology costs for purchasing equipment to enhance the church’s live streaming capabilities during worship services and events. For a list of accepted items, visit https://gslutheran.org. The annual Day of Fire tradition involves Scouts burning driftwood 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at Camp Allatoona Aquatics Base in Woodstock. Christmas trees also will be repurposed as fish habitats. Scouts can earn conservation service hours in 3-hour increments, or stay the entire 12 hours. Keep an eye out for registration details. https://bit.ly/3cJLIPL.

27 The 2022 Cherokee Film Summit,

hosted by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, is set for 5-9 p.m. at the Yanmar Evo Center in Acworth. More than 12 instructional partners will lead breakout sessions and panels to inform and inspire. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite, or by visiting cherokeega.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

FEBRUARY

Feb. 11-13, 18-20

“Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” directed by Nancy Jensen, will be performed at the Canton Theatre. This long-running absurdist comedy places Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso in a Parisian cafe in 1904, just before the renowned scientist transformed physics and the celebrated painter set the art world afire. www.cherokeetheatre.org/shows.

WOODSTOCK ARTS www.woodstockarts.org

Through Jan. 2

“Small Town: Small Works” is an open-call exhibit in

the Reeves House for local artists, set around small works and the theme of small towns.

Jan. 6-Feb. 13

“Creative Kids” celebrates and places a spotlight on the next generation of local artists, grades K-12, through an open-call exhibit in the Reeves House.

Jan. 22

The Lasting Laugh is a comedy series that brings in Atlanta-based comedians monthly, with Jessica It’s All Good as the host. Recommended for ages 12-plus (content).

Jan. 21

iThink Improv is back and ready to get its audiences

rolling down the aisles with laughter. Recommended for ages 10-plus (content).

Feb. 4-13

“A Chorus Line — High School Edition” is a full-length version of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, adapted for performance by high school students with family audiences. Recommended for ages 8-plus (some language).

CHEROKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.cherokeechamber.com

Good Morning Cherokee breakfasts are held at 7

a.m. monthly.

Power Hour Networking, 10-11 a.m., is held at the Chamber office, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton.

WOODSTOCK PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS

CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS AGENCY

woodstockparksandrec.com // 770-592-6000, Ext. 1955 Registration is required for all programs.

www.playcherokee.org Recreation Center: 770-924-7768, Aquatic Center: 678-880-4760

Jan. 15

Essential Gardening: Planning a Successful Garden. Join University of Georgia Cherokee County

Extension Agent Josh Fuder and the Cherokee Master Gardeners, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, for a garden planning session that will supercharge your garden with fruits, vegetables and herbs that thrive in our North Georgia growing zone. Cost is $5.

Jan. 19

Discovering Pickleball. Ages 18 and older. This hour

long class gets you ready to play pickleball, and you will by the end of the session! Equipment is provided. The class is taught at 6:30 p.m. at the Dupree Park pickleball courts. Cost is $5.

Jan. 20, Feb. 17, March 26

Bee Hive Maintenance. Learn how to manage your beehive in a real-time, hands-on way, 7 p.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road. Meet with Woodstock Community Garden beekeeper Shannon Sorescu to cover what you should be doing to ensure a healthy, well-maintained hive. From record keeping to swarm management and honey harvesting, the course is for new and established beekeepers. Bee protective clothing/gear is required. Registration fee is $50; it covers the January, February and March classes.

Jan. 27

Discovering Beekeeping. Ages 10 and older. Join

Shannon Sorescu, 7 p.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, to learn what you need to know before committing to beekeeping. Cost is $5. For more information, email jsnyder@woodstockga.gov.

Jan. 29

Essential Gardening: Seed Starting. Get a head

start on the gardening season by starting seeds early. Join Josh Fuder and the Cherokee Master Gardeners, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, for a class to give you the tools and information to advance your seed-starting techniques. Cost is $5.

COFFEE WITH A COP: WOODSTOCK woodstockga.gov/police

Jan. 11: 8:30-10 a.m., Leaning Ladder Feb. 8: 8:30-10 a.m., Circle of Friends at the Circuit

Through Feb. 7

Donations for Project Valentine, an annual collection of items for Empower Cherokee (a nonprofit social services organization that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities), can be dropped off at the Recreation Center. Items requested include chapstick, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, any art or music activities, sugar-free and regular candy, and holiday-related items. For more information, email bbjohnson@cherokeega.com.

Feb. 12

The 16th annual Guns & Hoses 5K, a certified race for the Peachtree Qualifier, benefits charities selected by the Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office and the Cherokee County Fire Department. This year’s race benefits Sheriff Frank Reynolds Charities, which is dedicated to raising money to help fulfill the needs of the people of Cherokee County, and the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, a nonprofit home serving young men in the foster care system. Registration is open; when registering, the runner can select which team (charity) he or she wants to represent.

LANTERN SERIES At the Elm Street Event Green in Woodstock; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org.

March 19: The National Parks May 14: Naughty Professor May 28: Aditya Prakash Ensemble July 2: Sub-Radio July 16: Kyshona Armstrong

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Fresh Start Cherokee @ The Circuit 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock, 770-345-0600 www.circuitwoodstock.com/events.

1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC) Cherokee

Held in person, and on Facebook Live. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. For upcoming events, visit the Fresh Start Cherokee Facebook page.

WOODSTOCK BUSINESS CLUB Meets weekly, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm St., Woodstock. Follow on Facebook. AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

@ the Library

Sequoyah Regional Library System www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org

Holiday programming began at Cherokee County libraries with open house events featuring games, refreshments and Santa Claus himself.

Valuable Resources to Help You Start The New Year BY JOHN RODGERS

Happy New Year from Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS)! The public library should be the first destination for anyone looking to make a New Year’s resolution. With countless titles dedicated to hobbies, selfhelp and do-it-yourself projects, in addition to items like musical instruments and sewing machines to borrow, it’s never been easier to discover a brand new passion

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

without paying a cent. The newest addition to our Library of Things is mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, which can be connected to a laptop, smartphone or tablet. Use your SRLS library card to borrow a mobile hotspot, and connect your device to the internet nearly anywhere. No device? No problem! Chromebooks can be borrowed from the library as well. Work on

any project at home, school or your local coffee shop, at no cost to you. Anyone looking to grow their book collection in 2022 won’t want to miss the next big Friends of the Cherokee County Public Libraries book sale. Visit the R.T. Jones Memorial Library in Canton, Jan. 21-22. A preview sale, 3-5:30 p.m. Jan. 20, will be open to members of the Friends of the Cherokee County Public Libraries; become a member at the door! Library Friends also are accepting donations of new and gently used materials, 2-5 p.m. Jan. 7 and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 8. Items accepted for donation include books, DVDs, books on CD, puzzles and games. To make donation arrangements, email staff@cherokeefol.org. And, remember to stop by the Woodstock Public Library’s book store on the second Friday and Saturday of each month for a “live” sale featuring special items. From “The Polar Express” storytimes to festive parties, to appearances from Santa himself, library staff was honored to help keep the holiday season merry and bright for thousands of families across Cherokee County. Readers of all ages, who aren’t quite ready to bid farewell to December, still can participate in the library’s winter literacy challenge through Jan. 31. Download the Beanstack app or visit sequoyahregionallibrary.org. There’s still plenty of time to curl up with a warm book and win special prizes along the way. Happy reading! John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

Woodstock Arts: A Look at 2022 BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

What a roller-coaster of a year 2021 was, right? From talking with many of you, it seems like everyone had some big ups and downs throughout the year. After such a wild ride, I wanted to take a moment to share what Woodstock Arts is looking to focus on this year. Every January, the board of directors and staff goes on a retreat to review Woodstock Arts’ strategic plan and make adjustments to best positively impact our community. I believe in transparency, so I wanted to share where we plan to make these adjustments during 2022.

1. Stabilize operations.

In January 2021, Woodstock Arts had four staff members. By the end of this month, we will have 17 staff members, plus three yearround contractors. Whoa. To say things have changed is an understatement. Our culture, communication and operations have all evolved (or must evolve). With explosive growth, we want to make sure that we honor your support. You have made that growth, and the positive impact through the arts, possible.

NEVER MISS A BEAT!

A CHORUS LINE: TEEN EDITION

FEB 3-13, 2022

Reinforce community engagement. After

having to retreat a bit in 2020, and growing last year, we wanted to audit ourselves and ensure we are maximizing community engagement. During the past seven years, we’ve focused on engagement through volunteerism, community partnerships and involvement in community-wide activities. We love it all, and are looking forward to reinforcing our involvement in 2022 so you all know how much we love this community.

long-term financially. 3. Think UNDER THE STARS

Did you know that the August 2022-July 2023 season is our 20th Lantern Series anniversary? Don’t worry; we will let you know more soon. But, this organization has truly had a generational impact through the arts. This community (you) are so generous with your time and money. You make this organization amazing and so worthwhile. We always strive to show good stewardship of funds, but as we recover from COVID-19, we want to ensure that it isn’t just a recovery; it isn’t just a reaction. We want to be proactive, so we continue to make an impact for generations to come. After the retreat, when we finalize our adjustments to our strategic plan, you’ll be able to see all of our hopes and dreams for the next few years. Until then, know how grateful we are. It is because of you that we are able to have these goals and plan for the arts to thrive in our community.

PLUS... Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

NEW MEDIA EXHIBIT

FEB 17 - APR 17 COME EXPLORE THE INTERSECTION OF ART + TECHNOLOGY

UPCOMING: Theatre Classes

The tradition returns onstage Winter/Spring Registration Now Open

Visual Arts Classes

Sweat

60+ local artists in the Gallery

Theatre | Mar 4-20, 2022

Sister Act

The tradition returns onstage 60+ local artists in the Gallery

Ceramics | Painting | Mixed Media Ongoing

A Divine Musical Comedy Apr 22 - May 8, 2022

WOODSTOCKARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons

J Miller’s Smokehouse

Rootstock

Century House Tavern

KAI Restaurant & Lounge

Salt Factory Pub

American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 www.canyonsfresh.com Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 www.centuryhousetavern.com

Copper Coin Coffee

American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com

Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 www.freightkitchen.com

Gyro Aegean Grill

Greek/Mediterranean 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-485-5236 https://gyroageangrill.com/

Habanero’s Taqueria

Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 www.habanerostaqueria.com

Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 www.ippspastaria.com

J Christopher’s

Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 www.jmillerssmokehouse.com Sushi & cocktails 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 www.kai-restaurant.com

Lucky Cat

Casual bar & restaurant 8632 Main St. 770-783-2287 www.eatatluckycat.com

MadLife Studios

Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com

Partners II Pizza

Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 www.partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga

Pure Taqueria

Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 www.puretaqueria.com/woodstock

Prime 120

Steakhouse 120 Chambers St. 770-800-8049 www.prime120steakhouse.com

Reel Seafood

Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 www.reel-seafood.com

Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstocknow.com Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 www.saltfactorypub.com/woodstock

Semper Fi Bar and Grille American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 www.semperfibarandgrille.com

Tea Leaves & Thyme

English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 www.tealeavesandthyme.com

The Daily Draft Tap Room and Bar American 8594 Main St. 770-783-2799 thedailydraft.net

Truck & Tap

Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 www.truckandtap.com

Vingenzo’s

Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 www.vingenzos.com

Home Sales in November List Price Address

Subdivision/Complex

Beds Baths Year Built Close Price Total Days on Market

Inwood 4 3 2021 599,405 568,760 108 Meadow Mill Road 504 Newstead Way Subdivision/Complex Glenhaven At Ridgewalk Beds Baths 2 Year2 Built Close 2021 Price 477,791 Address Total Days on Market 477,791 List Price 117 Haleys 43 2 2021 2009599,405 405,000 108 Meadow Mill Circle Road InwoodHaleys Mill 4 24 380,000 568,760 159 Stone Manor CourtGlenhaven Cornerstone Manor 32 2 2021 2015477,791 410,400 504 Newstead Way At Ridgewalk 2 10 393,000 477,791 545 Coolsprings Walk HaleysSpringfield Place 42 2 2009 1993405,000 355,000 117 Haleys Circle Mill 4 4 360,000 380,000 714 Manor Billings Court Farm Lane Cornerstone Acreage 72 5 2015 2002410,400 1,500,000 159 Stone Manor 3 3 1,567,000 393,000 1416 Chatley Wellington 32 2 1993 1990355,000 276,500 545 Coolsprings WalkWay Springfield Place Manor 4 22 264,500 360,000 2042 Farm Woodside Bradshaw Farm 55 3 2002 1998 475,000 714 Billings LanePark Drive Acreage 7 1,500,000 139 500,000 1,567,000 504 River Place RiverManor Oaks 32 2 1990 1985276,500 325,000 1416 Chatley Way Wellington 3 6 340,000 264,500 306 Ashgrove Woodstock 53 3 1998 2011475,000 540,000 2042 Woodside ParkCourt Drive Bradshaw Farm Knoll 5 42 515,000 500,000 201Place Chatooga Drive River Oaks Little River Crossing 32 3 1985 1980325,000 340,100 504 River 3 7 367,900 340,000 3106 Waterford River Knoll Oaks 33 2 2011 1990540,000 314,000 306 Ashgrove Court Court Woodstock 5 7 294,900 515,000 525 Acuba Court Cottages of Woodstock 23 2 1980 2013340,100 390,000 201 Chatooga Drive Little River Crossing 3 104 389,900 367,900 507 HeleneCourt Court The Woodlands 42 4 1990 2004314,000 468,100 3106 Waterford River Oaks 3 6 490,000 294,900 151 FARMINGTON Drive Farmington Subdivison 42 2 2013 1980390,000 338,000 525 Acuba Court Cottages of Woodstock 2 13 365,000 389,900 101 Abbey Cottages of Woodstock 24 2 2004 2004468,100 365,000 507 Helene CourtCircle The Woodlands 4 14 365,000 490,000 534 Arden Close Montclair At Ridgewalk 22 2 1980 2005338,000 355,000 151 FARMINGTON Drive Farmington Subdivison 4 25 330,000 365,000 107 Bristol Farmington 32 2 2004 1981365,000 365,000 101 Abbey Circle Square Cottages of Woodstock 2 17 325,000 365,000 2305Close River Station Terrace RiverAtOaks 32 2 2005 1988355,000 326,000 534 Arden Montclair Ridgewalk 2 4 305,000 330,000 433 Citronelle Kingsgate 32 2 1981 2000365,000 367,000 107 Bristol Square Drive Farmington 3 2 372,000 325,000 306 Pioneer Pioneer Crossing 32 2 1988 1979326,000 330,000 2305 River Station Circle Terrace River Oaks 3 4 300,000 305,000 319 Dexter Drive Woodlands 22 2 2000 2004367,000 340,000 433 Citronelle Drive Kingsgate 3 13 325,000 372,000 303 Annazanes Place Pioneer Woodlands 42 2 1979 2005330,000 400,000 306 Pioneer Circle Crossing 3 5 453,900 300,000 118 Sunnybrook Lane Woodlands Sunnybrook 32 2 2004 1980340,000 265,000 319 Dexter Drive 2 2 250,000 325,000 151 Newcastle Newcastle Farm 52 3 2005 2006400,000 535,500 303 Annazanes Place Walk Woodlands 4 81 525,000 453,900 225 Johnston Farm Lane Woodstock Knoll 62 5 1980 2016265,000 855,000 118 Sunnybrook Lane Sunnybrook 3 4 865,000 250,000 133 Highlands ArborFarm View 43 2 2006 1999535,500 465,000 151 Newcastle Walk Drive Newcastle 5 4 4,390,000 525,000 1311 Kensington Farmington 35 2 2016 1982855,000 290,000 225 Johnston Farm LaneLane Woodstock Knoll Unit III 6 2 399,999 865,000 122 DialsDrive Drive Misty Mountain 32 2 1999 1979465,000 320,000 133 Highlands Arbor View 4 2 299,900 4,390,000 1000 Springharbor Springfield Place 52 3 1982 1994290,000 414,000 1311 Kensington Lane Walk Farmington Unit III 3 95 399,000 399,999 5041 River Rock Way Misty Mountain River Oaks 32 2 1979 1993320,000 288,000 122 Dials Drive 3 3 265,000 299,900 432 Parkstone Drive Springfield Cornerstone 33 2 1994 2013414,000 405,000 1000 Springharbor Walk Place Park 5 4 375,000 399,000 533 Coolsprings Springfield Place 42 3 1993 1992288,000 430,000 5041 River Rock Way Walk River Oaks 3 4 475,000 265,000 344 LittleDrive Pine Lane Cornerstone Longleaf Woodstock 42 3 2013 2019405,000 630,000 432 Parkstone Park 3 5 625,000 375,000 205 Mountain Walnut Creek 53 3 1992 2001430,000 465,000 533 Coolsprings WalkView Drive Springfield Place 4 83 449,900 475,000 1810 River Rock Trail Longleaf River Oaks 33 2 2019 1985630,000 305,000 344 Little Pine Lane Woodstock 4 2 285,000 625,000 216 Walnut 53 4 2001 2017465,000 476,200 205 Mountain ViewRidge DriveRoadWalnutOakhaven Creek 5 4 476,200 449,900 4810Rock Augustus Southlands 32 2 1985 1991305,000 369,500 1810 River Trail Court River Oaks 3 3 335,000 285,000 318 Dexter Woodlands 24 2 2017 2003476,200 360,000 216 Walnut Ridge Drive Road Oakhaven 5 25 379,900 476,200 4012 Hickory Bradshaw Farm 52 4 1991 2001369,500 800,000 4810 Augustus CourtFairway Drive Southlands 3 4 819,000 335,000 439 Timberleaf Road Woodlands Oakhaven 42 3 2003 2019360,000 480,000 318 Dexter Drive 2 7 530,000 379,900 405 Bramble Court Bramble 54 3 2001 1981800,000 428,000 4012 Hickory Fairway Drive Bradshaw FarmOaks 5 4 435,900 819,000 515 ForestRoad Lane Hickory Bluffs 23 2 2019 2021480,000 406,350 439 Timberleaf Oakhaven 4 39 401,350 530,000 105 Clifford MillOaks Creek Overlook 53 2 1981 2002428,000 430,000 405 Bramble CourtCourt Bramble 5 8 399,900 435,900 403 Doris 32 2 2021 1978406,350 275,000 515 Forest Lane Drive HickoryDriftwood Bluffs Forest 2 57 250,000 401,350 110 Brentwood Lane Mill Creek Brentwood 42 2 2002 1994430,000 378,000 105 Clifford Court Overlook 5 3 388,300 399,900 302Drive Highland Court Driftwood Westbridge 32 2 1978 1996275,000 394,000 403 Doris Forest 3 5 375,000 250,000 121 Weatherstone Drive Weatherstone 42 2 1994 1997378,000 370,000 110 Brentwood Lane Brentwood 4 19 373,900 388,300 201 Paddington Waverly Hills 42 3 1996 1992394,000 410,000 302 Highland Court Place Westbridge 3 4 385,000 375,000 179 RiversideDrive Lane Woodview Court 32 3 1997 2015370,000 450,000 121 Weatherstone Weatherstone 4 15 450,000 373,900 115 ToweyPlace Trail Woodland 43 2 1992 2003410,000 415,000 201 Paddington Waverly Hills 4 3 425,000 385,000 514 Finch Court Cardinal Woods 33 2 2015 1974450,000 315,000 179 Riverside Lane Woodview Court 3 5 337,000 450,000 309 Winthrope Drive Woodland Montclair/Ridgewalk 22 2 2003 2005415,000 372,000 115 Towey Trail 4 67 386,000 425,000 337Court Weatherstone Place Weatherstone 32 2 1974 1997315,000 370,000 514 Finch Cardinal Woods 3 59 357,000 337,000 893 Columbia Springs 32 2 2005 1992372,000 312,500 309 Winthrope DriveCourt Montclair/Ridgewalk 2 37 330,000 386,000 411 River Point Drive Weatherstone Riverchase 32 2 1997 1984370,000 335,500 337 Weatherstone Place 3 12 319,900 357,000 Springs 3 2 1992 312,500 34 330,000 893 Columbia Court Riverchase 3 2 1984 335,500 7 319,900 411 River Point Drive

24 10 4 3 22 139 6 42 7 7 104 6 13 14 25 17 4 2 4 13 5 2 81 4 4 2 2 95 3 4 4 5 83 2 4 3 25 4 7 4 39 8 57 3 5 19 4 15 3 5 67 59 37 12 34 7

DATA COMPILED BY

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

School News

Chattahoochee Tech Board Receives Role Model Award

For the seventh consecutive year, the Chattahoochee Tech Foundation Board of Trustees received Role Model Foundation Board Certification from the Technical College Foundation Association. The Chattahoochee Tech Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that partners with businesses, alumni and community leaders to support higher education for students through initiatives like scholarships and emergency funding. Board members provide valuable insight with respect to community engagement, management and strategic planning. In order to achieve Role Model Board Certification, all members of the Chattahoochee Tech board must be actively engaged in the work of the board through participation in organizational meetings, college events, leadership activities, fundraising initiatives and professional development.

Front row, from left: Advancement Coordinator Amanda Henderson, Vice Chair Rick Kollhoff, Susan Stephens, Vice President of Advancement Jennifer Nelson, Board Chair Mark Goddard, Darion Dunn and Robert Stephens. Back row: Henry Molient, Snehal Doshi, Chris Mosley, Jeff Butterworth and Marty Hughes.

Taste of Woodstock Raises Funds for Woodstock High

Visit Woodstock staff presented the Woodstock High School Band Program with a check for $7,500 from funds raised at Taste of Woodstock last September. The event was started in the school's cafeteria by the booster club before relocating to downtown and partnering with the Visit Woodstock organization. These funds are used by the booster club to offset equipment and operational costs for the bands.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Cherokee County School Board Chair Kyla Cromer accepts the Georgia Leading Edge Award.

Social and Emotional Learning Initiative

For the third consecutive year, the Georgia School Boards Association awarded the Cherokee County School Board its Leading Edge Award for innovation practices that make a significant impact on students. This year, the district-wide Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) initiative earned the honor. SEL services and support were created in response to an alarming trend among students: rising rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideations and suicide. Since the initiative was implemented in 2019, additional phases of services and support have been rolled out, including bringing recently retired top educators in part time to work with the mental health counselors and school counselors in developing SEL curriculum unique to Cherokee County schools, and the development of a district wide employee wellness committee with representatives from all schools and central office operations. “As a superintendent, my top job target on paper is to graduate students who are prepared for college or to begin their career. The real top job target, for me and for all of us as educators, is to help prepare every child we serve for a purposeful, successful and joyful life. When the days are dark, this is the light that carries us through to the next challenge — this is the ‘why’ in our hearts. This is what SEL does and is,” Superintendent Brian V. Hightower said.

CCSD Earns State’s Highest Honor

The Cherokee County School District has earned the 2021 Governance Team of the Year Award for large districts, which are those with more than 10,000 students. School districts are invited to apply for the award based on high scores on the state’s system that measures how well students are prepared for college and career success. The judging committee reviews the application, supporting evidence and the impartial review team’s report, made up of national educational experts and leaders. Cherokee County School Board members accepting the award are, from left: Patsy Jordan and Kelly Poole, Chair Kyla Cromer and Superintendent Brian V. Hightower.

Somers Named Georgia STEM Scholar

Carolina Ayerbe, Sonya Breaux, Patty Sloan and Melanie Salas make up the Roughing It Smoothly team.

Woodstock High Places in Wellness Challenge

Cherokee High Schools’ Walk This Weigh team is the winner of the Northside Hospital Cherokee Fall Wellness Challenge, a community competition sponsored by the hospital with prizes for teams that met health, fitness and wellness goals. Roughing It Smoothly from Woodstock High School, with Carolina Ayerbe, Sonya Breaux, Melanie Salas and Patty Sloan, was next in the rankings for Cherokee County School District.

Mill Creek Middle School’s AnnMargaret Somers, who teaches eighthgrade science and physical science and serves as the school’s science department chair, was named a 2022 Georgia STEM Scholar by the Georgia Youth Science & Technology Centers (GYSTC). Somers was selected for her excellence in teaching students about STEM and Somers. her innovation in integrating STEM lessons in elementary and middle school education. She will receive $500 to purchase classroom STEM supplies, as well as free admission to GYSTC’s 2022 Summer STEM Institute professional development program. This honor follows Somers’ recognition last year as a Teacher Fellow, one of 26 teachers nationwide selected by the Northrop Grumman Foundation and National Science Teaching Association.

Mountain Road Students Collect Donations for MUST Ministries The Mountain Road Elementary Student Council engaged its school community in a service learning project to help with MUST Ministries’ Thanksgiving food drive. Students collected canned and boxed foods that they sorted and packed up for MUST. Mountain Road’s student council members display the donation to MUST Ministries’ Thanksgiving food drive.

Ann-Margaret Somers

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the November Competition “Nature’s Beauty!”

Color Print

1st Peter DenBoer “Blue Ridge Beauty”

2nd Daylon Thomas “Misty Sunset” 52

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

3rd Chastain Kendrick “Painted Hill Sunrise”

Monochromatic

1st Martin Longstaff “Elephant Hiding Behind a Tree”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@ comcast.net for more information. 2nd Mike Voeltner “Emerging Sunflower #2”

3rd Jim Kirk “White Lily” AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Advertisers

For advertising rates and information: Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com

January 2022

ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com Treasure Tax 678-888-4829 www.treasuretax.com

DENTAL/ORTHODONTICS 35

ANIMALS/PETS Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org Express Vets 678-397-7377 www.expressvets.com

33 7

Woodstock Arts 47 678-494-4251 www.woodstockarts.org AUTOMOTIVE Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside Back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com EDUCATION/TRAINING/LESSONS Chattahoochee Technical College 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Cherokee Film Summit www.cherokeega.org

Georgia Food and Wine Festival 33 www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org

Dentistry for Woodstock Dr. Bruce Fink 1 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com

EVENTS

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

HAIR SALON/BARBER SHOP

BUSINESS SUPPORT Innovation Spot, The 770-262-3668 www.theinnovationspot.com

IN WDSTK www.inwdstk.org

Woodstock Business Club www.woodstockbusinessclub.com

EVENT PLANNING NINE88 Events 31 404-735-9908 www.nine88events.com FINANCIAL SERVICES Sarah Kendall, Edward Jones 30 770-720-6245 www.edwardjones.com/sarah-kendall Veracity Capital 9 678-685-3265 www.veracitycapital.com FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com HOME AND GARDEN Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com

Dr. Fahrenheit HVAC 770-926-6773 www.drfahrenheithvac.com

Findlay Roofing 37 770-516-5806 www.roofroof.com Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1 (675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com

Page Relocation 770-224-8184 www.pagerelocation.com

Cover, 28-29

Serious Tree Services 770-200-4989

That's My Patio/That's My Pergola www.thatmypatio.com www.thatsmypergola.com

INSURANCE Balanced Healthcare Solutions 678-842-0335 balancedhs.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com 54

Governors MedSpa and Concierge Susto's Taco Bar Restaurant: 678-400-8131 Medicine 18 Catering: 678-400-8160 678-888-5181 www.sustostacobar.com www.governorsmedicine.com RETAILERS

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomlinson Team, The www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Chris Coulter, Southeast Mortgage Back Cover 404-735-3111 Kris McKeeth, Keller Williams The Premier Group 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com

Back Cover

RESTAURANTS/FOOD 7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant www.7tequilasmexicanrestaurant.com Canton: 770-479-0847 Cumming: 678-455-5965 Johns Creek: 770-558-1156 Woodstock: 678-217-7770

Art Jewelers

Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

Cultured Brilliance 855-522-3663 www.culturedbrilliance.com

Felber Home Furnishings and Decor 770-693-6985 www.instagram.com/felberhome

Mattress Clearance of Woodstock 470-534-7284 www.mattressstorewoodstock.com

770-924-3133 www.artjewelers.com

Southern Sky Home 404-909-2526 www.southernskyoutlet.com

Southern Sky Home Outlet 404-842-8411 www.southernskyoutlet.com Table Top Dan 678-503-8758 www.tabletopdan.com

SENIOR LIVING St. George Village 404-558-6108 www.stgeorgevillage.org

Inside Cover

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

VEHICLE SALES Golf Cars of Canton 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com

CHUNKY SOUP · CHILI PASTA SAUCE · BEANS CORN · CANNED Meats CANNED Pasta · Rice Ramen Noodles Peanut Butter Cereal · Oatmeal Our urgent food supply is disappearing quickly! Can you donate today?

MARIETTA · 1280 Field Pkwy CANTON · 111 Brown Ind. Pkwy

www.mustministries.org AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

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Michelle McCulloch

we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

OUR PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNERS We work with some of the best professional photographers in the business.

Jerry King J. King Images 404-384-2794 jkingimages.com 56

Beth Fornuto Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 bethfornuto.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | January 2022

Heather Stevens Joyful Day Photography 678-947-1200 joyfuldayphoto.com

Abigail Peyton apeytonphotography.com

Brian Nejedly Photography 470-437-9339 briannejedlyphoto.com

Mortgage Forbearance is Ending. Is your exit plan ready? Forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments during times of financial hardship. However, you are still obligated to repay any missed payments.

Woodstock Stats

With deadlines approaching, homeowners need to determine how to move forward. Contact us to get help from experts, learn about available options, and choose the best plan for you.

October Avg. Sales Price

October Avg. Days on Market

October Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft.

$402,710

$183

$358,705 $316, 520

36 Days

35 Days 28 Days

2019

+13.3%

+12.3%

2020

2021

2019

-22.2%

+25%

2020

2021

If you participated in mortgage forbearance and have questions, contact us today! Please call us at 678-494-0102, or email us at info@tpgsells.com to request an informational video link regarding typical repayment options. For info on properties in Woodstock, Cherokee and Cobb, contact The Premier Group (TPG) or visit TPGSells.com.

$130

2019

$146

+12.3%

+25.3%

2020

2021

Kris McKeeth

Direct: 678-494-0102 Office: 678-494-0644 TPGsells.com

Chris Coulter

Executive Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #441233/GA MLO #32007 404-735-3111

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Articles inside

Recent Home Sales

School News

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Ann Litrel

Susannah O. MacKay

Susan Schulz

Everyday Angels

Charlice Byrd

Gail Roos

Harry Johnston

Rhiannon Turner

Laine Kirby Wood

Ashley Velez

Local News

Celebrations

Michael Caldwell