2-22 Around Acworth webfinal.pdf by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Contents February 2022

Contributors

North Cobb Christian School

34 Judy Abbott

8 Tommy Allegood

On the Cover

Find out how the school is reimagining learning for students like Brooke Moore, Noah Williams and Ella Becklean, on cover, and using Project Based Learning initiatives.

40 Joannie Bates

26 Trevor Beemon 36 Ryan Blythe

38 Jennifer Bonn

46 Cobb Collaborative

Pages 28 & 29

10 Vicki Davis

Cover photo by NCCS junior Benton Williams.

45 Roberto De Jesus 20 Wayne Dennard 21 Greg Fonzeno

22 Dale Hoeflinger 43 J.R. Lee

42 Rob Macmillan

39 Dr. Haiden Nunn 18 Susan Schulz

30 Elisabeth Stubbs 45 Jay White

40 Joel Williams

45 Amanda Yingling

10 Labor of Love

For 40 years, these passionate quilters have blessed the community through the art of sewing.

NorthStar’s Big Day

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

4 Around Acworth

12 Local News

15 Celebrations

NorthStar Church celebrates its 25th anniversary the only way it knows how — by giving back and blessing others.

32 Community Calendar

48 School News

Celebrating MLK Day

Residents remember the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by taking part in a unity walk and celebration ceremony. 2

In Every Issue

34 Growing Gardeners 42 Rob’s Rescues

44 Downtown Dining Guide 49 Library Events 50 Senior Events

52 Park Photo Contest

54 Directory of Advertisers

YOUR NEW OFFICE

starting at

$695

per month

…is ready for you to move in tomorrow!

Economical, upscale professional offices located in the heart of downtown Acworth. • Fully furnished • Utilities included • High-speed Wi-Fi A great opportunity to boost your business and business environment!

Call or Text: 404.401.0225 Email: Alan@acworthsuites.com AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Around Acworth

Letter From the Editor

I hope everyone has had an enjoyable and healthy start to 2022! I blinked, and it’s already February, but after sharing this space in December with our outgoing president, Patty Ponder, and in January with our new president, Kim Dahnke, I’m back! How fun was that snow day last month? My 4 year-old certainly enjoyed it, while my youngest wasn’t so sure about it. We had to bribe her with blueberries to get a family picture. We built a snowman, and, thankfully, I had carrots in the fridge for his nose. My habit of buying produce and never getting around to cooking it finally paid off ! We struggled to find something that would stay in place for his mouth, so he went without one. Maybe next winter, I’ll keep snowman building items on hand, just in case. I’m excited for this new year, and in more ways than the hope it brings for a healthier, happier world. At Aroundabout Local Media, we have many good things in store for you in 2022. I won’t share them all with you at once; I don’t want to overwhelm you with too much goodness! Our biggest and most immediate change is the new platform we’ve adopted for our Readers’ Choice contest, thanks to the professionals at Second Street. They’ve mastered the art of contests like Readers’ Choice, and work with publications across the country. We made the decision to take Readers’ Choice to the next level after examining our mission statement, and making sure we are doing the most we can do to help local businesses grow and prosper. We’re committed to walk alongside our local business owners and service providers, helping them gain as much exposure as possible in the community. During Readers’ Choice 2022, those entrepreneurs will have access to numerous tools to promote themselves during the contest, including images to download on their social media outlets to encourage nominations and voting. Also, they will have more options through advertising to ensure their businesses are top-of-mind for the voters. And, last but not least, voters have a chance to win a prize! Doesn’t a $500 Visa gift card sound good? Visit aroundacworthmagazine.com/readers-choice-2022 for more details. As February rolls along, I hope you’re staying warm, and curling up with a good book. We have some great suggestions on Page 27. If you don’t like the weather, it’s Georgia, so just wait a few minutes. Cheers to a happy, healthy and prosperous 2022!

Katie Beall Katie Beall is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. Send your comments or questions to katie@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

READERS’

CHOICE Award 2022

Nomination phase starts 9 a.m.

March 1

For details, visit www.aroundacworthmagazine.com.

What’s Coming

Mama G Beauty Salon (is scheduled to open this month at 3055 N. Main St. in Kennesaw at the corner of Jiles Road. Call Connie at 404-932-0665 for more information. Scoops Ice Cream is scheduled to open on Main Street in downtown Acworth this spring. Scoops offers handcrafted ice cream, chocolates and other sweet treats.

What’s Happening

West Cobb Orthodontics

recently announced the retirement of practice owner Dr. William K. Farrar. He retired after more than 55 years serving the Acworth, Kennesaw and Marietta communities. Dr. Brenna Christensen is the new owner and provider for the practice.

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings

Lake City Chiropractic 4:30 p.m. Jan. 27

4365 S. Main St., Acworth (Photo not available at press time.)

Dairy Queen 11:30 a.m. Feb. 24

4958 Cowan Road, Acworth

TREE SERVICE

WHEN

YOU NEED IT

Tree removal • Trimming • Underbrush removal Stump removal • Bobcat work

Call us 24/7! Emergency Tree Service

470-629-6675

YOU WILLLove

C R E AT I N G A S PA C E

WHAT WE PROVIDE • Functional design for your lifestyle.

• A fresh look for drab, outdated spaces. • Communication every step of the way. • More than 15 years of experience.

Scan now to learn more about our work.

678.316.8368 | www.betsymanley.com betsy@housetherapy.com

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | TowneLaker www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

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

“As a marketing consultant for over 30 years, I have worked with hundreds of advertising companies. Every so often I come across a company that stands out and just “GETS IT!” The team at Aroundabout Local Media is professional, flexible and easy to work with!” — Derek Ritchie, Express Vets

Advertise With Us

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 Graphic Designer Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 denise@aroundaboutmagazines.com Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Kim Dahnke, President 770-615-2779 | kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Get Social With Us!

E @aroundacworthmagazine Q @around_acworth ← Subscribe to our newsletter!

www.aroundacworthmagazine.com 6

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Around Acworth, 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 directly mailed to homes and businesses, and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Acworth 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 Acworth, 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 Acworth 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 6, Issue 7

America’s Community Magazine

ll...

u From Dusty & D

... To Clean &

Shiny

Renew Your Hardwoods! NORTHWEST GEORGIA’S SURFACE Cleaning SPECIALISTS

678.427.4345 EcoTechATL.com

NORTHWEST GEORGIA’S SURFACE SPECIALISTS AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

A Message from the

e welcome February and celebrate Black History Month in the city of Acworth. Acworth’s rich African American history is found throughout the downtown districts and beyond. This month, our hope is you and your family will take the time to visit the history and experience the culture that makes our city special. For instance, did you know the building the Art House is in is believed to be the site of the first African American owned business in the city? Now the home of the Acworth Arts Alliance, Acworth is proud to have this historic building preserved while serving a new purpose in bringing the arts to Acworth. Right across Cherokee Street, Doyal Hill Park commemorates Acworth’s first African American Alderman. Nestled within this park is the Rosenwald School Community Center, which was built in the 1920s during segregation in the South. This historic school is one of a few of these schools left in the entire country. Today, it serves as an important icon in our city and nation’s history, as well as a community center where families and friends come together to celebrate each other. Don’t forget, the Depot History Center on Main Street in Historic Downtown Acworth serves as a wonderful resource for learning more about Acworth’s heritage. Be sure to stop by next time you’re downtown to listen to the oral history series the Save Acworth History Foundation worked so hard to create for citizens and visitors. The Save Acworth History Foundation is a fantastic resource to Acworth, documenting and preserving personal stories, events and culture from individuals, families and groups that

have been here to see Acworth grow through the years. We are proud to have an amazing selection of eateries within our city, and if you’re looking to share a meal with someone special this Valentine’s Day, then we have some wonderful options. Check out Historic Downtown and Parkside for Italian, Cajun, and everything in between! Don’t forget to check out The Fountain, RedTop Brewhouse and Broken Anchor Winery if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a great time with family and friends. Now that we’re in the middle of winter, let’s take a moment to thank all the men and women on the Acworth Power and Public Works team who keep our city going during winter storms and icy weather. These individuals are the first to put their boots on while the rest of us are hunkering down at home. From the linemen taking care of fallen trees and downed power lines, to the sanitation team being out before the sun comes up to keep our neighborhoods clean, we appreciate you! This winter season, make sure you have your emergency kits prepared, and be sure to follow Acworth Power and Public Works on Facebook for the most up to date tips, information and service updates. As always, for more information on any city projects, visit www.acworth.org, sign up for our e-news blasts on our home page, “like” Visit Acworth on Facebook, or follow us on Instagram at @VisitAcworth. God bless, Tommy

Tommy Allegood was elected to Acworth’s city council in 2000 and has served as mayor since 2002. He is a community builder who is purposed to make it count!

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Roberto DeAAMS® Jesus, AAMS® Roberto De Jesus, De Jesus,Advisor AAMS® Financial Roberto De Jesus,Roberto AAMS® Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor 2487 Cedarcrest De Jesus, AAMS® 2487 Cedarcrest 911 Rd Ste 911 Rd SteRoberto Financial Advisor Roberto De Jesus, AAMS® 2487 Rd Ste 911 Acworth, GA 30101 2487 Cedarcrest Rd Ste 911 Cedarcrest Acworth, GA 30101 GA 30101 678-574-5166 Acworth, GA 30101 Acworth, 678-574-5166 678-574-5166 678-574-5166 MKT-9811B-A

Amanda Yingling Financial Advisor

MKT-9811B-A

Roberto De Jesus, AAMS® Financial Advisor

2487Cedarcrest Cedarcrest Rd SteSte 911 911 2487 Rd., Financial Advisor Acworth, GA GA 30101 Acworth, 30101 678-574-5166 2487 Cedarcrest Rd Ste 911 678-574-5166 Acworth, GA 30101 678-574-5166

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

A Labor of Love BY VICKI E. DAVIS

The Allatoona Quilters’ Guild (AQG) based in Acworth, has taken the art of quilting to an extreme level, in the most positive way. Founded in 1982 with 10 members, the Guild presently has 79 members, women ages 40 and older, hailing from several Northwest Georgia counties, and beyond the Southeast. Guild membership is open to anyone by completing an application with a $35 annual fee. One word describes this committed group of passionate quilters: community. “The Guild is forever focused on serving the community that has supported us through the years,” said Carolyn Shea, the community service chairwoman. Under her leadership, AQG engaged with the Acworth Police Department (APD) in 2007, providing officers with comfort quilts to hand out on calls. Since the initial collaboration, AQG has made and delivered more than 1,000 quilts to APD, which then were distributed for hurricane relief efforts; donated to SafePath (a children’s advocacy center); used to minister to elderly nursing home residents; and shared with neighboring Kennesaw Police Department. The relationship with APD continues, and, in 2021, Chief Wayne Dennard asked AQG to make stuffed bears out of old police uniforms. Guild members answered the call and produced 75 tiny police bears that now ride along in APD cars, to be given out at officers’ discretion. When a child’s first introduction to law enforcement is with a police bear, surely the positive first impression will be a lasting one. More police bears are planned for 2022.

Quilt sewn by Cindy Christenson using a Lori Holt Sew By Row pattern. 10

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Acworth Police Chief Wayne Dennard, far right, accepts an annual donation

The Guild also has been a constant contributor to Ryan’s Case for Smiles, a charitable organization “helping kids cope with cancer” by providing pillowcases to children throughout the Atlanta area and beyond. Pillowcases have brightened the spirits of children at Atlanta children’s hospitals and at camp events, as well as others who are hospitalized. In 2021, the Guild contributed more than 800 pillowcases. The dedicated and mission-driven Guild members have remained committed under the unique circumstances caused by the pandemic the past two years. AQG members enjoyed an annual retreat held at Red Top Mountain State Park in March 2020, just before the lockdown. April’s meetings were canceled, but members were determined not to be deterred, and began meeting via Zoom in May, which they have continued since. Throughout 2020 and 2021, 3040 members have attended four monthly Zoom meetings and 15-20 have gathered for Zoom Sit-n-Sews. Sit-n-Sews are often all-day events, and a great time for connection and fun. Members remained in touch at parking lot pickups and dropoffs held at the Roberts School Community Center in downtown Acworth, their normal meeting location. Communication continued with emails and a monthly newsletter. “We kept moving forward while the world was on hold,” said the 2020-21 AQG president, Sue Baumgartel of Canton. Other officers who led the Guild through such a challenging time include Vice President Daryl Miller of Dallas, Secretary Barbara Means of Alpharetta, Treasurer Sue Zabell of Marietta and Community Service Director Carolyn Shea of Acworth. Members are grateful to still feel “whole” and actively engaged in the community. Everyone has been encouraged by the ongoing communication during the pandemic and they hope to resume in-person monthly meetings at the Roberts School Community Center later this year.

of quilts from the Guild in 2013.

While quilters of yesteryear gathered for quilting bees in a home, where the group worked to make several quilts in a sitting, AQG members availed themselves of modern technology, to stay connected and productive. Programs that continued through the pandemic are Block of the Month, virtual lectures and workshops, as well as a 2021 virtual retreat. A tremendous side benefit of video conferencing has been the ability to offer programs led by national and international speakers that otherwise would have been unattainable, due to travel expenses. On Sept. 21, 2021, Allatoona Quilters’ Guild was recognized at the Acworth Board of Aldermen meeting, with a proclamation from Mayor Tommy Allegood. The Guild was recognized “for their many talents and compassion in providing aid and comfort with hundreds of quilts they have woven throughout those years benefitting the Acworth community.” The continued efforts of the AQG members, who volunteer their time and talent to create comfort quilts, pillowcases and stuffed police bears to be dispersed throughout the community and beyond, are truly a labor of love. For information, visit www.aqguild.org.

2022 Allatoona Quilters’ Guild Officers • President Cindy Christenson • Vice Presidents Jill Kirkland and Nancy Klump • Treasurer Sue Zabell • Secretary Pat Trapanese • Webmaster Kim Ayers.

Vicki Davis, an Atlanta native, frequently visited her parents’ hometown of Acworth. She moved to the area 32 years ago with her husband and sons. Family is her focus; writing is her passion.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Local News

Nominations Open for 2022-23 Leadership Cobb

Paintings at the Art House are available for purchase.

New Exhibit, Call for Artists and More! The Acworth Arts Alliance’s Art House started 2022 with the “It’s a New Year!” exhibit, which will run until Feb. 26. Events are free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available. The Art House is accepting submissions for the “Chiaroscuro” exhibit, which will run March 5-April 23. The submission deadline for this exhibit is midnight Feb. 15. For more information on exhibit submissions, visit acworthartsalliance. org/guidelines. The alliance’s annual fundraiser, Live at Logan Farm Park, will be April 23 with the Weekend Getaway Band scheduled to perform. Sponsor-table dinners will be provided by 1885 Grill. Concessions will be available. The concert is free and open to the public. Register now for upcoming classes and workshops at the Art House and at the Roberts School in downtown Acworth. For more information, visit www.acworthartsalliance.org.

Leadership Cobb, the Cobb Chamber’s leadership development program, is seeking nominations for members of its 2022-23 class. Fifty diverse and qualified individuals are selected annually to participate in this leadership development program. Leadership Cobb enhances personal and professional growth, while participants gain awareness of current issues, community resources and the social, political and economic needs of the community. Program days combine lectures and dialogue among speakers as well as audience interaction with leaders in all facets of the community. Nominations are open until Feb. 14, and can be found at https://bit. ly/3GJC4Kn.

WaterSmart Art Contest Seeks Entries Show off your drawing skills and get published in Cobb’s waterSmart art contest coloring book. For this contest, fourthand fifth-grade students enrolled in Cobb County and City of Marietta School Districts are asked to draw Cobb Water’s mascot, Tappy Turtle, practicing a water-saving habit. The deadline for submissions is 3 p.m. Feb. 18. The winners will be invited to a virtual reception March 14. Winning entries will be compiled into a coloring book and distributed throughout the county. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3FFVaQm, or email michael.kahle@cobbcounty.org. 12

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

BIG LEAGUE BANKING Dansby banks on LGE.

And with our High Rewards Checking Account, you can, too!

Member Since 2012

LGECCU.org Federally insured by NCUA. Membership eligibility requirements apply. Terms and conditions apply to LGE’s High Rewards Checking. Failure to meet all conditions will result in no dividend paid.

Local News Map to Nonprofits Near You

Cobb County Geographic Information System has a new interactive map of all the nonprofit organizations in the area. With this map, residents can easily find organizations, whether they need those services themselves, or if they’re interested in volunteering or want to donate. Access the map by visiting https:// bit.ly/3GKK4e4. A short instructional video is available on Cobb TV to help residents start using the new map. View the instructional video at https://bit.ly/3qFfrBi.

Your Input Is Needed! Cobb County’s Community Development Agency will host community meetings and surveys to facilitate a five-year update to Cobb County’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan is a long-range, community designed growth strategy that guides the future of Cobb County. Community Development staff would like your input by completing a survey to analyze the needs and opportunities important to you as a resident, landowner, visitor or business owner. Your participation will help develop a shared vision for the county’s future. The survey is available at https://arcg.is/1avWem0. Through March, there will be opportunities for the community to provide their thoughts and ideas related to the plan. Residents are encouraged to be active in the planning process to ensure the plan reflects the community’s preferences and desires. The meetings will be informative and interactive, designed to collect feedback on the existing needs and future development in the county. For more information, please visit the Comprehensive Plan website at www.cobbcounty.org/comp-plan.

Virtual Meeting

Feb. 24, 6-7:30 p.m. Link will be posted online.

Open House

March 10, 6-8 p.m. Hudgins Hall (Cobb County Civic Center) 548 S. Marietta Parkway SE, Marietta

Lights on the Lake Benefits Nonprofit

From left, Lake Allatoona Association board members Dean Bourne and Aaron Feldt, Calvary Children’s Home Campus Director Brian Busby and Lake Allatoona Association Board Members Linda Hartsfield and Carole Miller.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

The 2021 Lake Allatoona Association’s “Lights on the Lake” Christmas Parade was successful due to this year’s sponsors, donors and participants. There were 19 boats registered to participate in this year’s parade. Many folks chose to watch the parade on the shoreline at Bartow County’s Gatewood Park, which is the best viewing site on the lake for the boat parade. Each year a nonprofit that supports children in foster care, from one of the three counties adjacent to Allatoona Lake, is selected to be the recipient of the Christmas Parade proceeds. On Dec. 31, Lake Allatoona Association board members presented a check for $2,800 to the Calvary Children’s Home in Powder Springs. Park Marina again hosted the event for the judges, participants and donors. Prizes for each category were awarded to the following vessels and owner/operators: • Pontoon, Dean Schneider • Other Category, AJ Murphy • Cabin Cruiser, Tim Maxey • Houseboat, Bryan Kirby • Best Spirit, Rachel Hutchinson • Best Overall, Greg Kalin

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Email to: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com March deadline is Feb. 14. Please specify Around Acworth.

Ariana Rose

Happy third birthday! Love you, Camila, Siena, Daddy and Mommy

Olivia

Happy ninth birthday, Olivia! We love you so very much! Mom and Dad

Steve James

Happy birthday, Steve James! We love you, McKenzie, Landon and Dana

Josephine and Joshua Tay

Calum Orion Jewett

Age 3 on Feb. 9 Happy birthday! We love you! Daddy, Mommy and Lachlan

Jackson Willard Bennecke Feb. 12 Happy birthday, Jackson!

Chandler Hearing Age 19 on Feb. 14 Happy birthday! Love, Mom

Josephine - Age 6 on Feb. 25 Joshua - Age 2 on Feb. 28 Happy birthday! May you grow in the ways of the Lord. We will always love you both, Mom and Dad

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Celebrates

Senior Pastor Mike Linch, right, with Marlon Longacre, left, the Rev. Ike Reighard and Cynthia Cullen during a service on Jan. 9.

NorthStar Church

Silver Anniversary by Giving Back NorthStar Church, on Blue Springs Road in Kennesaw, celebrated its 25th anniversary during its morning services Jan. 9, welcoming back special guests and launching 25 Days of Giving. NorthStar Church launched on Jan. 5, 1997, with the founding pastor, the Rev. Ike Reighard, and seven full-time staff members, including current Senior

NorthStar presents a $10,000 check to Piedmont Church’s Senior Pastor Ike Reighard and Associate Pastor Marlon Longacre. 16

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Pastor Mike Linch. For that first worship service, 365 people gathered at the Days Inn Conference Center off Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw (a venue that no longer exists). The congregation quickly outgrew the space, and was forced to find another location. The theater at North Cobb High School became the home for the church from February 1997 until November 2000 (with a short summer stint at Vaughan Elementary School, while the NCHS theater was refurbished). Today, the church remains a stone’s throw from North Cobb High School, a visible reminder of its early days. “I never had a doubt that Mike would be anything but successful as a leader of NorthStar,” said Reighard, who serves as senior pastor at Piedmont Church in Marietta, as well as CEO of MUST Ministries. “When I see the everyday impacts of NorthStar, it thrills me, because that was what we wanted to do from the very beginning: to truly create a church that would not be the best church in our community, but would be the best church for our community.” By supporting and partnering with schools, city and county governments,

other nonprofit organizations, and even other churches, NorthStar continues to exemplify the same passion for reaching Acworth and Kennesaw that it had in the beginning. “We are so grateful for the generosity given from the hearts of everyone at NorthStar Church during these past 25 years,” Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood said. “NorthStar’s generosity has changed the lives of many children, families and organizations, and its kindness has been life-changing! Thank you to every member of NorthStar Church for helping transform Acworth into the most loving and caring community in America.” “I am delighted to have NorthStar Church as a part of our community, leading, serving and helping people find their way home,” Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling said. “May God continue to bless NorthStar Church, and all they do in and for our community.” Between Jan. 9 and Feb. 2, NorthStar Church embarked on a 25-day giving campaign. The church invested more than $120,000 to support other churches, schools, first responders, people who work in the service industry, college students and more. “The cities of Acworth and Kennesaw have played a huge role in our journey,” Linch said. “I believe we live and serve in the greatest communities in the country. Mayor Allegood and Mayor Easterling are part of our NorthStar family, and we all are trying to make this the best place to live, work and play. I love this place! I moved here in the summer of 1991 to serve my first church, and I’ve never left.” In addition to planned service events, members of the congregation participated in their own giving campaign, through acts of kindness, such as sending words of encouragement to the elderly, providing gift cards to postal and sanitation workers, and recognizing difference-makers in a variety of ways. “I believe this is what Jesus has called us to do,” Linch said. “After we paid off nearly $7 million of debt in 2018, we made a promise to begin to use that money we had given the bank all of these years for a greater purpose. I can think of no better way to celebrate our 25th than by blessing others like we have been blessed.”

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Fighting Susan Schulz with Warrior Bride Ministries founder Kelly Hawley.

the Good

FIGHT

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

ith the recent sex trafficking charges against Jeffrey Epstein and his longtime companion, Ghislaine Maxwell, the sordid details of these offenses have been pushed to the forefront for all to see. An evil scourge on society, human trafficking is a $150 billion industry with more than 25 million victims globally, according to a 2020 Forbes article by Carmen Niethammer. The staff and volunteers at Warrior Bride Ministries (WBM) work relentlessly to be part of the answer to this growing problem. Women and children come to them from all over the country to find healing and freedom from the trauma of abuse. “Warrior Bride Ministries was born out of necessity to give survivors a place to heal,” founder Kelly Hawley said. “As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and a believer for over 20 years, I have a unique experience in navigating the spiritual and emotional aftermath of trauma and walking in freedom. I also went through a lot of training while serving with an organization, for over 10 years, that helped sexual abuse victims, like me, to find their healing in Christ. I worked with them until they were no longer in operation. There were many survivors who still needed someone to walk with them on their journey of healing. This inspired me to launch Warrior Bride Ministries in 2017. We became an official nonprofit in 2020.” The ministry teams of WBM successfully completed 263 intake sessions in 2020, online and in person in their first office in Marietta, despite the start of a global pandemic one month after organizing. The nonprofit continues to grow and, at the end of last year, moved to a larger facility in Kennesaw. “WBM provides a safe place for me to heal from childhood trauma that was keeping me stuck in a cycle of depression, suicidal ideation, and hospitalization,” survivor S.M. said. “They are teaching me how to function with dissociative identity disorder* while working toward integration and wholeness. I see, for the first time, what unconditional love is, and that I matter as a person. It’s safe to have a voice here. I don’t have to feel ashamed of the darkness and evil I’ve experienced, and I can finally stop running. The biblical restoration process is showing me that I am deserving of love, and I am not who my abusers say I am. I finally have hope that I can become all I was created to be and walk into my destiny with joy, strength and support. There is no help available for people like me where I’m from. I’m so thankful that God sent me here.” “Here at WBM our battle cry is: I won’t be quiet so you can be comfortable,” Program Director Eliana Brooks said. At WBM, the leaders and volunteers aim to meet this challenging issue head-on by providing outpatient care and rehabilitation services on an ongoing basis to those seeking freedom through healing, deliverance and integration to move them beyond crippling trauma. With their explosive growth, they have moved into the due

Together we will make your light shine again! Sorrow to Strength Grief Coaching

Christine McCartney, CPC, ELI-MP Transitional Grief Coach

The prayer room at Warrior Bride Ministries headquarters, where many lives change for the better.

diligence stage of opening a long-term care facility, trusting God for the needed funds. This community will be called Agape Redemption Ministry and will include a short-term residential program. WBM client Sophia praised the nonprofit for tackling a tough issue. “This type of ministry is unique and rare, and one that not many are willing to take on,” Sophia said. “I believe it gives people hope and boldness to want to step up and help, and an awareness to spread the truth of the evil that is happening across the globe. Check them out and get involved. Help them fight the good fight! You will be blessed.” WBM is hosting an educational conference, titled Counting the Cost, Feb. 24-27 at the Pine Acres Retreat Center in Acworth. This is an introductory conference that gives pastors, ministers, laypersons and the general public an overview of the complexities that come with healing mentally, emotionally and spiritually from severe trauma. Register for the conference by visiting countingthecostconference.org. To learn more about WBM, visit warriorbrideministries. com, email admin@warriorbrideministries.com, or call 833-WBM-SAVE/ 678-336-2410. Follow WBM on Facebook and Instagram at @warriorbrideministriesga.

Unlock a new outlook on life.

Free yourself from your past.

Live with more peace and joy.

Start your journey with a FREE consultation today! 404-542-1229 |Christine@sorrowtostrength.com

www.sorrowtostrength.com

*Dissociative identity disorder usually is a reaction to trauma as a way to help a person avoid bad memories. The leaders at WBM describe it as a survival technique for the mind.

ChattahoocheeTech.edu 770-528-4545

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. Business

Computers

Media

Health

Technical

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

ACWORTH

POLICE DEPARTMENT

February Brings Department Changes, Events BY WAYNE DENNARD

February isn’t viewed as a traditionally exciting month. The holidays have passed, and the new year is not so new anymore, but there is a lot going on at the Acworth Police Department! We have exciting upcoming events, as well as some announcements to share. First, I am pleased to announce Mark Cheatham, a 20-year veteran of the Acworth Police Department, was promoted to the rank of major. Maj. Cheatham’s leadership has been integral to the growth of our agency, and he has outstanding goals and plans for our future. While Cheatham is stepping into the next phase of his professional career, Capt. Stanley Melton will be retiring in March. Melton has spent more than 40 years serving the Cobb County community as a police officer, and we are grateful he has chosen to spend the past 10 years with us. With both captains moving in different directions, it creates an opportunity for others in our agency to advance and move up in the ranks. In addition to Melton’s retirement, Lt. Kenny King of the detention division will be retiring in April. King joined our department after many years with the Cobb County Sheriff ’s Office. He has led our detention division for nearly seven years, and he will leave us with some very big shoes to fill. Over the next few months, we will see lots of movement and growth, and I am looking forward to watching new leaders develop and emerge. It is an exciting time for our department, and the future looks very bright! 20

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Maj. Mark Cheatham

Capt. Stanley Melton

Last month, we opened online registration for our 22nd annual Citizens’ Police Academy (CPA). The response already has been incredible, and spaces are filling quickly. CPA offers the public an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the job knowledge, skills and abilities required of those in the law enforcement community. In the past, CPA students had the opportunity to learn from members of the Acworth Police Department, as well as members of the district attorney’s office, the office of the medical examiner and our dispatchers. One of the highlights of the 12-week classes is the firing range experience. Students will have the opportunity to learn from a police firearms instructor and participate in exercises on the firing range. At the conclusion of the CPA, there will be a graduation ceremony, and students’ families will be invited for an evening of celebration. After successful completion of the course, participants will be offered the opportunity to schedule a ride along

Lt. Kenny King

with an Acworth Police officer. Classes are free of charge and meet 6-9 p.m. Mondays. Seating is limited; register at www.acworthpolice.org. Finally, we are looking forward to the Special Olympics Polar Plunge on Feb. 19 at Cauble Park. The Acworth Police Cadets are raising funds to support the Special Olympics, and if they raise enough, I will join the cadets by plunging with the team into the icy waters of Lake Acworth! If you would like to contribute to the Polar Plunge and help our Acworth Cadets team and the Special Olympics, visit www.classy.org/ team/389973. Our year is off to a great start, and we have so much to look forward to. For the most up-to-date information, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.

Free Safety Checks Can Save Lives BY GREG FONZENO

Before boating season begins this spring, consider getting a free vessel safety check, so you can avoid an embarrassing and potentially costly encounter with law enforcement. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary helps boaters inspect their vessel to ensure required safety equipment is in good, serviceable condition and the required number of each piece of safety gear is on board. The free vessel safety check is performed at your boat by a certified vessel examiner, at a mutually convenient time, and takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending upon the size of your boat.

What’s in It for Me?

Vessels passing safety checks are awarded a decal that informs law enforcement and other safety agencies your boat is in full compliance with federal and state boating laws that year. Best of all, every vessel safety check is 100% free of charge!

What if I Don’t Pass?

If your boat does not pass, no citation is issued. Instead, you are provided a written report on how to correct any discrepancies.

Why Receive a Vessel Safety Check?

The peace of mind that your boat meets federal safety standards and, in an emergency, you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help. In many cases, boating insurance agencies offer discounts for vessels that undergo a vessel safety check every year. All decals and safety checks expire Dec. 31 of the year they are inspected. They also are void should the owner or operator fail to maintain the vessel’s equipment, or the vessel itself, to the standard at the time of the safety check.

What Type of Items Are Checked?

• Lifejackets • Registration and numbering • Navigation lights • Ventilation • Backfire flame arrestor • Fire extinguishers • Distress signals (flares, horn, etc.) • Sound producing devices • Battery cover and connections These items are required by Georgia and federal regulations and, if missing or non-operating, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard or local law enforcement.

How Do I Find an Examiner?

Visit the Coast Guard Auxiliary I Want a VSC website at https://bit.ly/3fAyuGI, and complete the form. The site will locate the closest volunteer vessel examiners within 30 miles of your location, and they will contact you to set up a safety check.

Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

UPCOMING EVENTS Feb. 8, 22 Morning Jolt

7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals.

Feb. 10

Alive After Five

5:30-7:30 p.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive

Feb. 17

Women’s Business Network

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Cedars 4610 Northside Drive

March 3

ABA Luncheon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St.

March 8

Morning Jolt

7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals.

Join the ABA by visiting www.acworthbusiness.org. 22

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Andrew Graham, Jim Hilber, Stephanie Kull, Lori Tanner and Dale Hoeflinger network at last month’s Alive After Five at Center Street Tavern.

Stepping Into the Uncomfortable BY DALE HOEFLINGER

It’s February, and love is in the air. For some of us, that’s a great thing, but, for others, it can be a little uncomfortable. If we are being honest, we don’t like being uncomfortable. Most of us prefer our comfort zones, which is why it’s called a comfort zone. The problem with staying in your comfort zone is things don’t move or change. If we want to meet new goals, grow our businesses, learn new things or move in a new direction, change and being uncomfortable must happen. Are you in a place where you want to maximize your momentum, but you shy away from the uncomfortable? Or, maybe you don’t know how to take that first step? This is where our community and the Acworth Business Association (ABA) can help, but you have to be willing to step out of your comfort zone and into the uncomfortable. Instead of just attending a luncheon to listen to a speaker, try sitting at a table where you don’t know anyone and introducing yourself. When you come to the Morning Jolt or Alive After Five, leave your phone in your pocket, and talk to one or two people; be curious about what it is they do, and how you can help their business. If all that is uncomfortable for you, ask for help, and get connected. Ask another ABA member to introduce you to a few people in the room. This community is full of love, and the people here are eager to help you feel the love. Quite often, the antidote to being uncomfortable is making a connection, and the ABA is the right place for you to do that. New things are always easier when we do them with friends. My challenge to you this month is to do one thing that makes you uncomfortable. You just might find it to be the very thing you need to move forward. Maximize your momentum, Acworth!

Dale Hoeflinger is a financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors and the president of the Acworth Business Association. He grew up in Michigan, but is happy to call Acworth home.

;

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Celebrating His Life and Legacy

Martin Luther King Jr. PHOTOS BY BRITTANY WEIR

On Jan. 17, Acworth held its ninth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, which began with a welcome breakfast, followed by a unity walk and program honoring King’s legacy. The unity walk, from Roberts School to the Acworth Community Center, celebrated community, and the program, led by Mayor Tommy Allegood and guest speaker Lewis Preston, highlighted the importance of each person in our community. MLK Day of Service shirts were for sale at the community center, leading up to and on the day of the event. All proceeds went to the Acworth Expanding Horizons and Acworth Achievers programs.

Members of the Acworth Achievers lead the community in a unity walk from the Roberts School

Mayor Tommy Allegood addresses the audience during the MLK Day event, as Alderman Tim Houston, left, and a community affairs officer, Cpl. Lamar Almon, right, join him. 24

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Acworth Achievers with featured speaker Lewis Preston.

to the Acworth Community Center.

Mayor Tommy Allegood welcomes Lewis Preston. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Remembering Cobb’s Enslaved Population BY TREVOR BEEMON

new garden sculpture. For the sculpture, KSU students used Cobb Landmarks and Historical Society recently state-of-the-art scanning technology to 3D scan living dedicated a new sculpture at the William Root House, built history interpreter Misha Harp. circa 1845 for Hannah and William Root, early settlers of The scan was used to print a maquette of the sculpture, Marietta. using a 3D printer, which helped inform sculptors as they Born in Philadelphia in 1815, William moved to Marietta crafted the full-size sculpture. in August 1839 to open a drugThe unveiling, which attracted a mercantile store on the Marietta large crowd, included remarks by Square. During the 1990s, myself, Harp, master craftsman the Root House was restored Page Burch, and a poetry reading meticulously to its original by Sprayberry High School student appearance, and now is operated Courtney Brown. by Cobb Landmarks as a historic Lights Over Atlanta, a company house museum. that specializes in exterior lighting, Situated on the Root House approached Cobb Landmarks property is the circa 1830s about donating permanent outdoor Manning Family Cabin. Cobb lighting for the Root House’s new Landmarks uses the cabin garden sculpture, titled “Forget to help tell the stories of the Me Not, America.” The lighting enslaved individuals who labored ceremony took place in December. at the Root House property, A sculpture titled “Forget Me Not, America” sits in front of The sculpture represents the and who would have lived the Manning Family Cabin on the grounds of the Root House, to honor the lives of enslaved people. work of students, poets, artists and in a similar cabin. The 1860 historians who came together for a census shows Marietta had 297 common purpose — to shine a light on the 1,200 enslaved households and a population of approximately 2,600. Of individuals whose names were not recorded and now are lost the 297 households, 137 (46%) held slaves. According to to time. the 1860 slave schedule (census), Marietta’s slave population in 1860 was roughly 1,200, meaning that almost 45% of Marietta’s total population was enslaved at that time. To honor and remember the more than 1,200 enslaved Trevor Beemon is the executive director of Cobb people living in Marietta prior to the end of the Civil Landmarks and Historical Society and the chairman War, Cobb Landmarks partnered with Kennesaw State of the Acworth History Preservation Commission. University’s (KSU) School of Art and Design to create a

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

K-2nd Grade

• “The Case for Loving: The Fight for Interracial Marriage” by Selina Alko • “Big Papa and the Time Machine” by Daniel Bernstrom • “Shirley Chisholm is a Verb!” by Veronica Chambers

• “The ABCs of Black History” by Rio Cortez • “Let the Children March” by Monica Clark-Robinson

3rd-5th Grade

• “Henry’s Freedom Box” by Ellen Levine • “The Undefeated” by Kwame Alexander

Curl Up With a Good Book

This time of year, there’s nothing like curling up in front of the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book. With winter break right around the corner, check out these reading recommendations for teens and children from our friends at the library, who also share some great selections for Black History Month. Remember, the North Cobb Regional Library also offers titles in eBook and audiobook.

Winter Reads

Preschool (ages 2-5)

• “Snow Globe Wishes” by Erin Dealey • “Best in Snow” by April Pulley-Sayre • “A Big Bed for Little Snow” by Grace Lin • “Bunny Slopes” by Claudia Rueda • “Here Comes Jack Frost” by Kazuno Kohara

K-2nd Grade

• “Over and Under the Snow” by Randi Sosny-Handler • “Penguin Problems” by Jory John • “No Yeti Yet” by Mary Ann Fraser • “Meet the Bigfeet” by Kevin Sherry • “Ten Ways to Hear Snow” by Cathy Camper

3rd-5th Grade

• “Peril at Owl Park” by Marthe Jocelyn • “Winterhouse” by Ben Guterson • “Breadcrumbs” by Anne Ursu • “Race to the Sun” by Rebecca Roanhorse • “Forgotten Girl” by India Hill Brown

Middle and High School

• “Icebreaker” by Lian Tanner • “Shiver” by Maggie Stiefvater • “Fracture” by Megan Miranda • “Nuclear Winter” graphic novel series by Cab • “Winterwood” by Shea Ernshaw

Black History Month Preschool (ages 2-5)

• “Mae Among the Stars” by Roda Ahmed • “Follow Your Dreams, Little One” by Vashti Harrison • “Dream Big, Little One” by Vashti Harrison • “Firebird” by Misty Copeland • “Black Is a Rainbow Color” by Angela Joy

• “Hidden figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation Into Space” [Young Reader’s Edition] by Margot Lee Shetterly

• “Young, Gifted, and Black: Meet 52 Black Heroes From Past and Present” by Jamia Wilson • “What Color Is My World?: The Lost History of African-American Inventors” by Kareem AbdulJabbar

Middle and High School

• “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” [Young Adult remix of “Stamped From the Beginning”] by Jason Reynolds • “March” graphic novel trilogy by John Lewis • “X: A Novel” by Ilyasah Shabazz • “A Matter of Souls” by Denise Lewis Patrick • “Call Us What We Carry: Poems” by Amanda Gorman • “African Icons: Ten People Who Shaped History” by Tracey Baptiste

In addition to these great Black History Month reads, North Cobb Regional Library is offering an outdoor Black History Month Scavenger Hunt on the grounds of the library throughout the month. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3tAZ1eX. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Learning

Reimagined Revolutionizing How Students Learn at North Cobb Christian School

Third grade students test out an earthquake simulation.

By Kate Hartley

Imagine — or reimagine, if you will — your middle school algebra class. Your teacher announces a new concept: calculating slope and writing linear equations. Now, before you nod off, your teacher says, “And to learn this concept, we will be designing a water park!” Did you just snap back to attention? If so, you’re not unlike the eighth-grade students at North Cobb Christian School (NCCS) in Kennesaw, who recently designed water parks as their math final assessment. Now, doesn’t that sound much more engaging than a drill-and-kill test? This is just one example of a schoolwide initiative called Project Based Learning (PBL), which is revolutionizing the way students learn at NCCS. Teachers in ninth- through 12th-grade have adopted PBL as a key goal, and all grade levels, from preschool through 12th, have committed to applying PBL components — such as student choice, peer collaboration and authentic assessments — to their classrooms. The outcomes have been very impactful, as NCCS students are utilizing higher-level problem-solving skills to master educational standards and serve their community.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

◆

NCCS algebra student demonstrates a skatepark marble run.

◆

A peek inside NCCS classrooms might find you...

◆

Watching high school robotics students propose a school garden, employing a FarmBot to integrate technology with environmental stewardship. Dropping a marble through the twists and turns of a cardboard skatepark, designed by middle school algebra students.

◆

Diving deep with middle school world history students, who published commemorative virtual boards on brave young adults from the Holocaust resistance movement, using Padlet technology. (Student example: bit.ly/holocaust_teens) Traveling to Publix with fourthgrade students to purchase supplies for MUST Ministries, using funds that students raised, budgeted and allocated to combat hunger in their community. Box-jumping in the hallway during an interactive health expo put on by high school health and fitness students to promote positive mental and physical habits. Listening to 12th grade Bible apologetics students present a website that they are designing to share Jesus with fellow teens. Shopping for CO2 laser-engraved coasters and custom merchandise, designed and produced by Upper School Business and STEM Academy students.

SPONSORED CONTENT

impact the world around them.” Rupp’s environmental science class last fall set out to research our national park system by designing sustainable solutions to combat major threats facing our parks. This project was the culmination of a unit on biomes, climates and habitats. Students picked a park that interested them, reached out to an expert for their park (such as an author, blogger or ranger), gleaned feedback on a major threat, iterated solutions, and then presented their ideas to Park Ranger Jake Bowling of the Kennesaw Mountain park system, who provided real-world feedback.

“We want students to be able to use their learning in life, and not just learn for the sake of school,” said Lower School Principal Wendy Titus. “The goal is for students to be able to make connections, collaborate and transfer their learning to

“This project was fun and creative, but it was also more challenging than a traditional test, because you had to think through your plans and designs from every angle,” said NCCS junior Blake Dean, whose project entailed combating the overpopulation of invasive Burmese pythons in the Everglades, which are decimating native wildlife. Dean’s solution of creating a business to entice

Students installing water filters in Haiti on Spring Term.

hunters to address the issue was a favorite of Bowling. “I’m a hunter, so I was able to use my prior knowledge of hunting to create a solution to a real problem,” Dean said. “Even though the project took a lot of effort, I think you actually learn more and remember what you learn better this way than by taking tests on paper. Instead of just studying for that moment, and then moving on, I still remember that whole unit.” “This generation of students can spot inauthenticity very quickly,” Rupp said. “They purposefully seek truth and will call you out on anything inauthentic, so they relate really well to meaningful, relevant learning. The Project Based Learning that we have adopted at NCCS is tangible. It’s real, and all types of learners respond well to that. It’s also intrinsically motivating to work toward solutions for real-world problems. Our goal is to train up a generation that is equipped and energized to bring solutions to our world.”

A Global Classroom Every fifth- through 12th-grade student at NCCS participates annually in Spring Term, a week dedicated to taking what students have learned in the classroom and applying it throughout the world. From Haiti to Hawaii, Spring Term options include overseas mission trips, cultural immersions, service projects, arts explorations and more. Students might spend the week installing water filters in a developing nation, researching an endangered species in Georgia’s Golden Isles, or gardening at a monastery in Italy. The goal of the week is authentic life change, both for NCCS students and for the people whom they are serving.

North Cobb Christian School was voted top private school in the 2021 Around Acworth Readers’ Choice Awards. NCCS has an enrollment of more than 1,000 students in preschool K3-12th grade. 4500 Eagle Drive, Kennesaw, GA 30144 770-975-0252 | info@ncchristian.org | E Q D AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Love Starts at 6 Ways to Show Your Home Some Love BY ELISABETH STUBBS

Home is more than the house where you live. Home is a place where you are comfortable, where your people are, where you can relax and be totally yourself. Home is what you make it, with your style, creativity, love, and your choices! When decorating your home, start from the bottom up. The floor is your room’s foundation. It sets the tone for other furnishings in the room. Flooring choices are decisions you make that will last years and years, so they are more important than say, a lamp or bedspread. But, where to start? Like a good pair of shoes, what’s underneath your feet is vital to the look and feel of your home. There are many options, and how you use your space will dictate the best option. Do you prefer hardwood, porcelain tile, laminate, luxury vinyl plank or carpet? Select your flooring first, and other finishes once the flooring is determined. If new floors aren’t in your plan this year, here are six easy, less expensive and less permanent ways to show your house some love.

1. 2.

Conceal worn flooring. Use an area rug to cover dirty carpet or scratched wood floors.

Tidy the entry. If your entry doesn’t already have storage, add a few hooks, a rack or tray for shoes, and a basket to collect stray items.

Make your kitchen counter a place of peace. It’s natural for the kitchen counter to accumulate stuff. It starts innocently enough: a blender for smoothies, your coffee pot, a cutting board, a bowl of fruit. But, there comes a point when a cluttered counter becomes a magnet for more clutter, and soon, your counter is swamped with stray rubber bands, incoming mail and half-finished homework.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Start fresh by removing everything from the counters. Put away anything that has a home, and clean the surface. Then, selectively put back the few items you use daily or find beautiful and inspiring. Better, isn’t it?

Freshen up the front porch. Clean up porch furniture, launder or replace cushions, sweep and mop the porch floor, and lay down a new welcome mat.

Plant a living centerpiece. Why fuss with flowers when you can have a green centerpiece that’s just as interesting but lasts indefinitely? Plant one or more shallow containers with a variety of succulents, and line them up along the center of your dining table for a fresh look. If you don’t love succulents, anything green will do.

Clear bedroom clutter. A clean and serene bedside makes for more restful sleep. Remove everything from your nightstand, as well as anything piled on the floor beside it, and wipe down the table. Put away any extra books, magazines, stray pens and old water glasses. A bedside table is another great spot for a beautiful houseplant. If you like, add a candle, too. Follow these tips to show yourself and your home some Valentine’s Day love!

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Around & About FEBRUARY

Great Backyard Bird Count is back, 18-21 The and people from around the world will come together to watch, learn about, count and celebrate birds for four days. For more information on how to share your bird sightings, visit www.birdcount.org/participate.

NorthStar Church for a drive-through Night 11 Join to Shine experience. The special-needs prom event

runs 6-8 p.m., with interactive stations, featuring princess encounters, crazy characters, walking the red carpet, playing hands-on games, snapping memories at photo spots and more. Guests and caregivers will receive swag bags with special gifts inside. https://northstarchurch.org/ special-needs/#nighttoshine. The 13th annual Special Olympics Georgia 19 Polar Plunge, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., is one of the

“coolest” fundraising events around. The event returns to Acworth Beach at Cauble Park. All proceeds go to providing 26,620 Special Olympics Georgia athletes free year-round sports training. For more information, and to register, visit polarplungega.org.

MARCH Through March

Cobb Travel and Tourism is hosting Bubbles & Brews, a month of special events from spirit makers, brewers and distilleries throughout Cobb County. Visit Cobb’s Hop Spots in March to vote for your favorite beverage, win prizes and attend special classes and events. All 19 Cobb breweries, distilleries and wineries will participate, including Acworth’s Red Top Brewhouse and Broken Anchor Winery. For more information, visit www.bubblesandbrews.com.

Moms Offering Moms Support Club, Acworth chapter, meets 10 a.m. at North Cobb Regional Library.

The Kennesaw chapter will join in; everyone is welcome to mingle and share ideas. For more information, visit kennesawmomsclub.weebly.com.

Touch-a-Truck, hosted by Kennesaw Parks and Recreation, runs 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Adams Park, 2600 Park Drive, Kennesaw.

inaugural Acworth Family Dance Party will 12 The be held at the Acworth Community Center, providing

families in the community with a disco-themed dance to enjoy. Registration is open for Acworth residents, and opens Feb. 7 for nonresidents. For more details, and to register, visit www. acworthparksandrecreation.org.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Plungers from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation wade through the frigid lake during a past Polar Plunge.

The Georgia Food + Wine Festival, 24-27 benefitting MUST Ministries, is

coming to Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. Celebrate the best of Georgia and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts, to farmers, artisans, live musicians and more. https://georgiafoodandwinefestival.com.

Rehearsals are underway for “Seven 25-27 Keys to Baldpate Inn,” a serious

comedy thriller, adapted by Paul Thain. Directed by Suzzune Husting, the play’s plot revolves around a bet to write a novel in 24 hours, with political intrigue, bribery, blackmail and a missing $1 million. On March 27, the show is at 3 p.m. All other shows are at 7 p.m. Keep an eye out for tickets at www.acworthculturalarts.org.

15th annual Wing & Rock 26-27 The Fest will be held noon-7 p.m. Saturday

and noon-6 p.m. Sunday at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, in Canton. Voted one of the Top 10 Food Festivals in the Southeast by Festival Rooster, the free, family-friendly event will feature a variety of chicken wings with bold sauces, as well as live music. www.wingandrockfest.com.

PARKS AND RECREATION 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth, GA 30101 770-917-1234 // www.acworthparksandrecreation.org

Community Classes Tuesdays

Line Dancing. Learn to line dance with knowledge, technique and style, while staying fit. Intermediate classes, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., beginner classes, 1-2:30 p.m., and evening classes, 6:30-8 p.m., meet Tuesdays in monthly sessions.

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Zumba. This fitness program features exotic rhythms, such

as salsa, merengue, cumbia, samba and more. All fitness and skill levels are welcome. Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly and drop-in rates available.

Wednesdays

Build Yoga. Join a very dynamic class using yoga postures,

plyometrics, hand weights and calisthenics to build strength, flexibility, balance and endurance, 8:45-9:45 a.m. Monthly and drop-in rates available.

Wednesdays and Thursdays

Pickleball lessons. Pickleball lessons are back at the Acworth Community Center. Times are available Wednesday and Thursday mornings. All experience levels are welcome.

Saturdays

APRIL Acworth Art Fest returns to downtown Acworth 2-3 Main Street, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5

p.m. Sunday. Creative booth displays will decorate the streets with paintings, pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry, yard art and more. www.splashfestivals.com/events-festivals/acworth-art-fest.

Acworth Egg Hunt returns to the Acworth Sports 8 The Complex, 4000 S. Main St. Participants should park on the

baseball side of the complex. There will be concessions and activities before the hunt, which includes 50,000 eggs and an appearance by the Easter Bunny. For more information, email taubrey@acworth.org.

BSD Taekwondo. This is a traditional taekwondo class for adults, 8:45-9:45 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Students will learn balance, focus, self-control and how to grow their confidence. Traditional skills are designed to promote health, lower stress levels and develop the whole body without the use of weapons.

Youth Registrations Feb. 21-25

Art Explosion Winter Break Camp. This camp is open

to ages 6-13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and campers are encouraged to dress in clothing ready to get painted, stained and splattered. Campers may be dropped off no earlier than 7:45 a.m. and picked up no later than 5:30 p.m. Cost is $115 for residents and $140 for nonresidents.

Tuesdays and Thursdays

BSD Taekwondo. Certified instructor Omar Welch will help students, ages 6 and older, sharpen their minds and learn to use their hands and feet to protect themselves. Classes meet twice weekly 3-4 p.m. at the Acworth Community Center.

Saturdays

Special Warriors Taekwondo. In this class, young community

members with special needs will learn focus, balance, hand-eye coordination and effective self-defense. Classes meet 10-10:30 a.m. at the Acworth Community Center.

Little Dragons Taekwondo. Children ages 4-7 can learn Don’t miss the annual Acworth Egg Hunt April 8.

balance, hand-eye coordination and self-control 10:45-11:15 a.m. at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly sessions are available. Parents are welcome to join in, but it is not required. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Bee the Change with the

Cobb 4-H Plant Sale

BY MASTER GARDENER EXTENSION VOLUNTEER JUDY ABBOTT

While the calendar may still say it’s winter, spring isn’t far away. Now is the best time of year to plan any additions to your gardens, and Cobb County 4-H is here to help you get started. This year’s theme for the organization’s annual plant sale is Bee the Change, which supports our pollinators and Cobb 4-H youth programs. Pre-orders are open until March 4, with pick up 9 a.m.-1 p.m. March 19 at Jim Miller Park in the covered pavilion. Shopping couldn’t be easier. Simply make your selections from the brochure, then drop off, or mail in, your order form before 5 p.m. March 4. The order form and brochure are available on the Cobb County UGA Extension Office website. (https://extension.uga.edu/county-offices/cobb.html) Orders will be accepted at the Extension Office with debit/ credit card (Visa/MasterCard/Discover), cash, money order or check. Mail-in orders will be accepted with a check or money order. The Extension Office is located at 678 South Cobb Drive, Suite 200 in Marietta. • No phone orders will be accepted to ensure accuracy. • All checks should be made out to Cobb Extension/4-H. • All sales are final. Cobb County 4-H makes no guarantee on plants sold. Some plant varieties are limited. Plants sell quickly. • Contact the Cobb County Extension Office at 770-528-4070 with questions.

Every year, our Master Gardeners work alongside 4-H youth to unload the delivery trucks — we are talking thousands of plants — then sort the plants to make the drive-through pick up process easier.

Azalea Tallulah Sunrise 34

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

4-H Agent Brittani Lee, Cobb County 4-Hers Sandhya Rajesh, Stefan Saboura, Kshitij Badve, Haya Fatmi and 4-H Program Assistant Kathleen McElroy.

Below is a list of available plants for sale; review the brochure for photos, plant descriptions, environmental requirements and pricing. Order soon to reserve your selections.

• Blueberries – Austin, Brightwell, Powderblue, Premier, Titan • Abelia – Peach Perfection • Azalea Evergreen – Hershey Red • Azalea Native – Tallulah Sunrise • Camellia – Alabama Beauty • Fothergilla – Mount Airy • Echinacea – Pow Wow Wild Berry • Fern – Autumn, Painted • Gardenia – Frost Proof • Heuchera (coral bells) – Amber Lady, Caramel, Obsidian • Hosta – June, Minuteman • Hydrangea – Snow Queen Oakleaf, Ada Lynn • Magnolia – Brittany • Monarda Jacob Cline • Osmanthus fragrans (tea olive) • Phlox Paniculata (Purple Eye) • Rose Brindabella – First Lady • Rose – At Last, Proven Winner series • Rudbeckia Goldsturm – Black-eyed Susan • Viburnum – Mohawk, Snowball • Herbs – Bronze Fennel, Tuscan Blue Rosemary, Tricolor Sage, Pineapple Sage

Supporting Cobb 4-H’s Bee the Change plant sale allows our Cobb County youth to grow and learn. A recent report by Josie Smith for CAES News (UGA College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences), provides a perfect example. Four Cobb high school students recently earned top honors with their first-place win at the 4-H State Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging contest held Nov. 11, 2021, at Rock Eagle in Eatonton. Sandhya Rajesh, Kshitij Badve, Haya Fatmi and Stefan Saboura were awarded Master 4-Her status with their first-place win at the state level. The first-place team from Cobb County was coached by 4-H Agent Brittani Lee and 4-H Program Assistant Kathleen McElroy. The team will represent Georgia 4-H in the Consumer Decision Making contest at the 2023 Western National Roundup in Denver, Colorado. Congratulations to these Master 4-Hers and best of luck at nationals! Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County, Inc. (MGVOCC) is a 501(c)(3) organization, which promotes and supports horticultural education programs and projects in Cobb County, Georgia. Members have been certified by the University of Georgia (UGA) Master Gardener program. For gardening questions, contact the Master Gardener Help Desk, UGA Cooperative Extension/Cobb County at 770-528-4070.

Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Tips for Starting a Business BY RYAN BLYTHE

Considering that more people are rethinking their careers in the wake of the pandemic, it’s a great time to dive back into some tips on best practices for business formation. Since 2016, the number of startups has surged from 3 million annually to 5 million last year, and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) expects this trend to continue. Retailing saw a 74% increase in trade applications and 88% of those surveyed acknowledged the critical nature of online sales. The leisure industry, including hotels and restaurants, is seeing increased interest, with a 55% increase in business applications, and health services are up a whopping 23%. The Small Business Administration lists 10 steps to building your business, starting with market research. Whatever you are going to offer, whether a service or a product, it needs to make sense for the space you are trying to reach. For example, it wouldn’t be wise to launch a welding school in 36

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Houston, since that market, due to oil and gas, is oversaturated. You do not need an MBA to be a successful business owner, but successful companies make real estate selection a significant part of their business model. That comes with studying traffic patterns, area development and other key factors. Writing a strong business plan is critical. Without it, there is no foundation or structure to your company. I knew we were going to be a private school, independent of government funding. While we would not have the income stream of larger schools, our competitive advantage would come from independence. Fund your business; a strong banking relationship is more important than ever, and don’t be afraid to spend money. Risktaking is fundamental in launching a business. If you do not have the stomach for this, stay in the employee category. The next step is picking a

business location, and Kennesaw and Acworth are excellent places to do business. I have experience in both cities, and the pro-growth environment is supported by government, large and involved business associations and, at the county level, an award-winning chamber of commerce. It can be expensive to do business in thriving areas like these, but there also is a strong potential customer base with disposable income. There are a few steps that are not particularly exciting, but necessary. You need to determine how you want to register your business, which will impact taxes and liabilities. A good CPA can guide you through this process. You also will need to get a federal and state tax identification, and apply for any local licenses or permits that are required. Open a bank account with an organization that understands small business. You need a relationship with a business banker who can help you navigate complex transactions, such as real estate, equipment purchases, payroll administration and other key areas. Think community, not Wall Street, banks. The final two steps are of enormous importance. First, choose your business name. This must reflect your brand and cannot be already in use. Once you have a great name, protect it. This is the step many fail to take. It costs money, but trademarks make your brand stand out. They prevent confusion, offer legal advantage and are valuable assets. Our intellectual property is vital, and it protects and identifies our work. There is no perfect time to start a business. I started mine during the Great Recession. The stars never will align. You must be willing to take risks and work hard. High rewards can follow, but nothing is guaranteed. Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which for the sixth consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.

More February Specials...

A h c a e B s e i d o b are made in the

Facials for HER or HIM o Box of Chocolates Facial

$140 (add body mask for $75)

o Shine Bright like a Diamond Diamond Glow Facial with customized serum and eye mask - $200

Get a headstart on your summer body today!

starting at

Aquagold with PRP, HA serum and 10u Newtox - $350

o TCA Peel: 4 treatments - $800 o CoolPeel: 3 treatments - $1,500

o Break Up with your Razor

o The Gift for HER and HIM

o Lose the LOVE Handles

o Love Bigger

Laser Hair Removal - 50% Off Coolsculpting - $500/ cycle Vanquish Me Fat Reduction 6 sessions for $2,000

inter WD

o Date Night Glow

o Love your Lips, not your Lines Lip Flip - $75 Restylane Silk - $500

Vaginal Rejuvenation - $1,250 Hormone Replacement Therapy Consult and Labs - $250

o Give Yourself Some Love

Free $10 coupon with every purchase of $100 gift certificate.

Add a Governors Glow IV to any treatment for $120. Enjoy 15% off SkinMedica products.

Drs. Heath & Ashley Trowell

$500

www.GovernorsMedicine.com • 678-888-5181 4900 Ivey Road NW, Suite 1201, Acworth, GA

FEBRUARY SPECIAL

a complete system with installation

S a Sa

Ends 2/28/22. Cannot be combined with other discounts or specials. One oﬀer per household.

Call today for a free, no-obligation estimate!

770 -336-7888

www.DaycoSystems.com AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Focus on Improving Your Relationships BY JENNIFER BONN

I always think of February as the love month, and love is the key in our relationships. It’s so important to strengthen our bonds with family and friends, and build our communities. So, this February, let’s improve the way we interact with each other. There are many different types of good relationships: spouses, friends, family and colleagues. Although the type of relationship might differ, the characteristics necessary for a healthy relationship are generally the same. Here are some of those characteristics and why they are important.

Love

Love is the ingredient that makes everything else a little better. When you love someone, you want what is in the best interest of that person. You are willing to guide and help the one you love to accomplish those goals.

Respect

Respect is as important as love. You always want to lift up your loved ones and make them feel supported. Let them know they are admired by you and that you recognize their gifts. Listening is part of respect. Hear your loved ones fully. Tell others how blessed you are to have them in your life. Do not tear others down, especially in front of other people.

Humor

A good sense of humor is important in any relationship because things are not always going to go perfectly, and humor can diffuse many situations.

reason. If you acknowledge your shortcomings, it takes away the ammunition from the person trying to get a reaction from you. Transparency can also lead to trust.

Solidarity

United we stand. It is an amazing feeling to know you and a loved one are a united front. Knowing you have support relieves a lot of stress. There is nothing uglier than watching someone criticize someone in public. Agree to build each other up instead of tearing one another down.

Understanding

None of us are perfect, so we need to understand and give grace to each other when we are struggling. Differences make us more interesting, and we don’t need to fit specific labels. Be your true self, and if someone doesn’t love you the way you are then move on.

Communication

Talk to the people you love or work with, and clearly communicate your thoughts and feelings. Fully listen to them, as well.

These basic elements will help build a strong relationship, but there are times when the best thing you can do is walk away. If someone tears you down, makes you feel inadequate, is an emotional or physical bully, or tries to control you, it is time to realize the relationship is toxic, and the best thing you can do is end it. Instead of rescuing the relationship, rescue yourself.

Transparency

Being honest about certain things can also diffuse issues. Our loved ones can poke at us sometimes for whatever

Jennifer Bonn is a freelance writer in Kennesaw and a recently retired 40-year educator. Her book, “101 Tips to Lighten Your Burden,” was recently released and is available on Amazon.

Discover a Natural to a Beautiful Smile.

Approach

Dr. Hamel

IAOMT Accredited

Connecting Oral Health to Whole Body Wellness ► Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal ► Biocompatibility Testing Available ► Restorative and Preventative Care ► Cosmetic Dentistry

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Dr. Vita

IAOMT Member

Visit our website to learn more about holistic dentistry.

BiologicDentistry.com 770.426.9994 1781 Brookstone Walk NW Acworth, GA 30101

Ask the Audiologist

What’s a Good Price Point for Devices? Dear Dr. Haiden,

I have been receiving fliers in the mail for hearing aids that cost $500. Honestly, I was surprised to see I could get devices at that price. I was speaking about this with my wife, and she said she saw several online options for hearing aids that were around the same price point. I was wondering if these devices are worth the money, and if they are a good route for my hearing loss. I have a hard time hearing the higher pitches, and people mumble all the time. Sincerely, Inquisitive Consumer

Dear Inquisitive Consumer,

Nowadays, we are calling this the wild west of hearing aids. This means that hearing amplification technology now comes in many different styles, technology levels and price points. Consumer-based marketing gradually has turned hearing aids into more of a commodity rather than a medical device. You must be careful, because not all the devices you read about or see online are considered hearing aids. A lot of the devices you would order through the mail are personal sound amplifying products (PSAPs). PSAPs simply are designed to amplify everything, including extraneous background noises you do not want to hear. In your case, with your hearing problems, something like this would not work. With online sales of amplification becoming more widespread, it is important to be cautious of internet scams. Unfortunately, many of these products are listed for sale against Food and Drug Administration guidelines, as these devices are medical devices and only can be fit and prescribed by a professional. When you purchase devices online, most places do not have the capabilities to program them for you. I would hate for you to spend the money, and not have anyone to help you with them. My advice always is to seek help with your hearing problems through a doctor of audiology, who can sit down with you, discuss your wants, needs and financial concerns when it comes to the technology. There are a variety of service plans to help patients with navigating the financial aspect of the hearing aid technology. Remember, unfortunately, sometimes you get what you pay for.

Sincerely, Dr. Haiden Nunn

Dr. Haiden Nunn joined North Georgia Audiology in 2018. She earned her doctorate from the University of Louisville and her bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Love it or List it? Pros and Cons BY JOANNIE BATES

I’m sure you know the TV show where homeowners enlist a realtor and an interior designer to help them decide if they should keep their home, or go find a new one. Usually, there is some seemingly insurmountable obstacle to renovating their existing home that the designer magically is able to tackle. And, the realtor finds a home in the owners’ price range and neighborhood, where they want to live that is leaps and bounds better than their existing home. We hold our breath until the end, when the homeowners decide whether they will stay or go. We all can relate to the show’s premise, because it is hard to decide whether we should stay put or finally move on from the place we call home. There are pros and cons to both. A major pro for selling your home is the current hot seller’s market — yes, it’s still happening. You can get top dollar for your home with your choice of offers and a quick turnaround, in most cases. I’m seeing a lot of “as is” offers as well, meaning some pesky issues in your home that you’ve been meaning to fix can be left alone.

Keep in mind, inventory remains low, so you might not be able to find the house of your dreams right away, and you may end up having to find an interim place to live. While this is not ideal, with some patience (and the right realtor), you will find what you are looking for, eventually. If you are not ready to take the plunge and want to stay put, there are many benefits. No. 1, you don’t have to move. And, you won’t have to change school districts, or any of your local conveniences, such as doctors and shopping. If your location is right, and you have enough space for your needs, then staying in your home might be the best option for you. If you have renovations planned, keep in mind that costs are high now, so a renovation likely will be more expensive than you are expecting. Contractors currently are very busy, too, so, once again, patience is key.

Joannie Bates is a Realtor for Keller Williams Signature Partners. She works with clients in the surrounding area, with a focus on luxury and investment properties.

Check Your Auto Insurance Coverage BY JOEL WILLIAMS

Most of us lead busy lives and rarely stop to consider whether we have sufficient automobile insurance to cover the damages that can be caused by a car wreck. Insurance coverage is just one of those things that we only think about when we need it. Georgia requires drivers to purchase liability coverage that will cover a minimum of $25,000 in damages for property and bodily injury. Insurance companies also are required to offer uninsured motorist coverage of at least $25,000. Is that enough? I often get calls from people who were in a car wreck, and they believe they have “full coverage.” After a little digging, I usually discover they have the bare minimum required by Georgia law. Sometimes, that is fine, because the damages are minor; however, when severe damages are involved, the choice to purchase minimum coverage often results in financial disaster for the at-fault driver, and the victim. There are four categories to consider when purchasing automobile insurance coverage.

• Liability bodily injury coverage protects us if we cause a wreck and hurt someone else. • Liability property damage coverage protects us if we cause a wreck and damage someone else’s property.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

• Uninsured motorist coverage provides compensation for the victim if he or she suffers personal injuries or property damage in a wreck caused by an underinsured driver. • Medical payments coverage will pay the medical expenses of the insured, regardless of who caused the wreck.

With the cost of automobiles and medical care skyrocketing in recent years, we all should consider whether $25,000 is enough to replace a totaled vehicle, or an emergency room visit and surgery. According to a recent Kelly Blue Book study, the average price for a light vehicle was $42,258. Recently, one of my clients was taken to a local hospital after a wreck, and the emergency department care cost more than $37,500. Nearly every day, I encounter situations where there is not enough insurance to cover the damages caused by a car wreck. At a minimum, we should consider purchasing liability and uninsured motorist coverage of at least $100,000, to protect ourselves from financial disaster. You may be surprised at how little your premiums will increase if you increase your coverage.

Joel Williams is a partner at Williams|Elleby, a Kennesawbased personal injury law firm. www.gatrialattorney.com.

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.

G E O R G I A F O O DA N DW I N E F E S T I VA L .C O M THANKS Corporate Sponsors

Official Sponsor

OUR

PARTNERS

Presenting Media Sponsor

Media Sponsors

I AM NOT JUST A LOAN OFFICER. I'M ALSO

Your Neighbor I can help you with all your home loan needs, from new home purchases to refinances. "Chris made this whole experience virtually stress free, with her upbeat down to earth attitude, her knowledge, and her phenomenal customer service. I will highly recommend this company to anybody I know of." - Stanley M. (Client)

NATIONWIDE STRENGTH. HOMETOWN SERVICE. More than 1,600 loan products, 30,000+ positive Zillow reviews. Christiane Busch

NMLS #2063203

213-448-3662 chris.busch@fairwaymc.com ChrisBuschAtFairway.com

3565 Piedmont Road, N.E. #202 Atlanta, GA 30305 Copyright ©2021 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. All rights reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Equal Housing Opportunity. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Rob’s Rescues This month, I interviewed Georgia Audubon Society Director of Education Melanie Furr. Georgia Audubon is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates bird-friendly communities through conservation, education and community engagement.

What is a story that you love to tell about your job?

What are the main things the Audubon Society does?

How can people help birds?

Our mission is to build places where birds and people thrive. We make the environment better for birds, and make people want to connect with birds through educational programs, walks, habitat restoration work and installing native plant gardens in public schools.

What do you do at Georgia Audubon?

I manage all programs from preschools to senior centers. I talk to all audiences about matters relevant to birds. I have a unique hummingbird program, and I bring our resident hummingbirds, Sibley and Polly, to teach people about them.

How did you become interested in birds, and what did you study? I used to be a high school English teacher. I started wildlife rescue and volunteering at AWARE. I went on an Audubon bird walk, saw 45 different kinds of birds and realized there is so much to birds we don’t know. It was an epiphany moment for me.

I love connecting kids with nature. When I hear, ‘I’ve never seen a bird that close; I wish I could see this every day.’ I say, you can! It gives me a magical feeling.

Plant native plants that grow in Georgia. Bugs lay eggs on bushes, and birds will eat them. So, native plants are imperative. Treat windows. Every year, 2 billion birds fly into windows in North America. Keep cats inside. Cat saliva is toxic to birds. Even if a cat catches a bird and causes no structural damage, it will still infect the bird.

What should we do if we find an injured bird?

Keep it in a dark, quiet place. Do not give it food or water. Contact a wildlife rehabber by downloading the Animal Help Now app.

My favorite bird is a blue jay; what is your favorite bird?

My favorite bird is a cousin of the blue jay, the crow. They are closely bonded with their families and send alarm calls when danger is around.

What do you want people to know about Georgia Audubon, and how can people contact you?

We have free bird walks all around the city and would love people to join us. Schools are welcome to contact me to do a virtual hummingbird meeting. Visit georgiaaudubon.org.

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

Rob with Melanie Furr and hummingbird, Sibley. 42 AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

This cat’s name is Cashmere. She is a gray cat who is 1.5 years old. She is an owner surrender; I am not sure why as she is a very sweet and friendly cat who probably would just like to hang around you all day.

This dog’s name is Franklin. His tag number is 633422. He is 2 years old and probably should be an only dog until he mellows a bit. He is a very sporty and active medium-sized dog. It took about 10 seconds to take the photo with him, which is usually not the case, so he is cooperative. He also will need some leash training, but, when that is done, I think he will be a very good dog. These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services, 1060 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta.

Gain Perspective on Full-Net Problems BY J.R. LEE

“I wish I had the same kind of problems that you have.” That statement uttered from the mouth of an acquaintance stuck with me. We just shared some challenges we were facing. He recently started a church and was having a difficult time with the facility he was renting. Combine that with very few people showing up, and it was a massive challenge he needed to overcome. Contrastly, we were dealing with the opposite issues. We owned a facility, but it was bursting at the seams. A different kind of problem, but a problem nonetheless. Two different people. Two different types of problems. A doctor named Luke writes about this in the Bible. A couple men had been fishing all night, but their nets were empty. Coming home empty-handed is a major problem when you are career fishermen who depend on their catch for their livelihood. The next morning, Jesus intervened. Luke 5:4 states, “When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’” Verses six and seven continue with, “When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to rip. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.” Now the men faced a different problem. Their nets were so full that they began to rip. A different kind of problem, but a problem nonetheless. I think the same is true for you and me, regardless of where you are financially, or relationally, right now.

It can be stressful to have a home full of people that you need to prepare for, entertain and feed. It’s not always easy to maneuver through life in the midst of uncertain economic times. Schedules are crazy. Traffic is crazy. Honestly, life is crazy, but at least our nets are full. Full-net problems are the kind of problems people with empty nets would love to have. That changes my perspective.

• Cooking far too much food for far too many people is a full-net problem, because so many are isolated and alone. • Spending hours planning the perfect vacation is a full-net problem, because so many haven’t been on vacation in years.

• Sitting in traffic on the way to your job is a full-net problem, because so many wish they had a job to drive to.

• A messy house full of kids is a full-net problem, because so many haven’t been able to have children.

Don’t get me wrong. Having a full net can be stressful, but it sure does beat staring at an empty one.

Pastor J.R. Lee is husband to Devin, dad to Lexi, London and Bryce, and pastor of Freedom Church. Follow him on Instagram at @PastorJRLee, Twitter at @JRLee, or on the Freedom Church YouTube channel.

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Downtown Acworth Dining 1885 Grill

The Fountain

Nibbles Grill

Bert & Boo's Bake Shop

Fusco's via Roma Italian Trattoria

Pizza By Fuscos

Center Street Tavern

J.D.’s Bar-B-Que

Southern Coastal 4438 Cherokee St. 770-672-0508 www.1885grill.com/welcome-acworth

Bakery 3900 Old McEver Rd. 470-582-6717 www.bertandboos.com Facebook: @bertboos American/ Traditional 4381 Center St. 770-917-0004 www.centerstreettavern.com

Italian 4815A S. Main St. 770-974-1110 fuscosviaroma.com Facebook: @fuscosviaroma Barbeque

4424 S. Main St. 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com

Dogwood Terrace

Henry’s Louisiana Grill

Doro’s Italian Restaurant

L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine

American/ Traditional 4975 N. Main St. 770-627-4069 www.dogwoodterraceacworth.com Italian 3979 S. Main St.,Suite 250 678-903-2607 www.dorositalian.com

Fish Thyme Restaurant and Bar

Seafood 3979 S. Main St., Suite 5657 770-974-2323 www.newsite.fishthymerestaurant.com

Cocktail Bar and Pub Grub 4843 N. Main St. 678-403-8898 Facebook: The Fountain - Acworth

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Cajun 4835 N. Main St. 770-966-1515 www.chefhenrys.com Southern

4417 S. Main St. 770-694-1949 www.lmaries.net

Miss L’s Sandwich Shop Sandwiches

4817 S. Main St. 770-966-9709 Facebook: @Miss-Ls-Sandwich-Shop

Grill/Diner-Breakfast Burgers 4628 S. Main St. 404-312-7597 www.nibblesgrillacworth.com Pizza 4815B S. Main St. 678-426-7503 www.pizzabyfuscos.com

Red Top Brewhouse

Pub Grub 4637 S. Main St. 470-893-0425 www.redtopbrewhouse.com

Rico’s Mex Mex Grill

Mexican 3770 Southside Dr. 770-917-9791 Facebook: @Ricos-Mex-Mex-Grill

Don’t Wait for a Real Estate Crash BY JAY WHITE

Nowadays, many are wondering, “where is the real estate crash?” After historic appreciation of homes in the Atlanta market, many think the prices of homes are going to decline. It is important to look at the 2007 housing crisis, which carried into 2009, and understand what caused it, before waiting on prices to drop. The three main factors that led to the housing crisis in 2007 were a combination of rising home prices, loose lending practices, and the creation of even more subprime loans to make buying a home available to everyone, which, eventually, led to a tsunami of foreclosures. The creation of subprime products in 2007 and loose lending practices allowed people to buy homes they truly could not afford. For example, someone making $36,000 a year, and buying a $400,000 home, was allowed to state alternate income without proving this income. This, coupled with shortterm, interest-only loans that fully amortized two to five years later, in most cases, created a situation where the previously mentioned buyer could not afford this $400,000 home, and, ultimately, walked away and was foreclosed, thus hurting values across neighborhoods in Atlanta. The Dodd Frank Act was enacted in July 2010 to prevent this from happening again. One of the many provisions in the Dodd

Frank Act requires lenders to determine a buyer’s ability to repay (ATR) when underwriting a loan. Therefore, any income listed on a mortgage application must be verified through paystubs, W2s and tax returns, whichever applies to each applicant’s situation. Credit requirements also were enhanced, along with the requirement of down payments, versus 100% financing. If these rules are not properly followed, lenders can be fined, or even made to cease and desist operations. Recently, statistics were released showing that late mortgage payments were at an all-time low, with lenders not forced to foreclose on homes. The mortgage climate is healthy and, with strict underwriting requirements in place, will allow the market to sustain rising home prices with minimal default. This does not mean that demand will slow, and sellers no longer will get 20 offers on a home with the highest bidder winning, but supply eventually will slow down the appreciation factor. So, don’t wait to buy that next home! Jay White, top 1% in the nation in mortgage originators according to Mortgage Executive magazine, has 19 years of experience and is a multimillion dollar producer for Bay Equity Home Loans.

What Should You Do with a Tax Refund? SUBMITTED BY ROBERTO DE JESUS AND AMANDA YINGLING

Are you expecting a tax refund this year? If so, what will you do with it? Of course, the answer largely depends on the size of your refund. For the 2020 tax year, the average refund was about $2,800, according to the Internal Revenue Service. But whether your refund this year will be about that size, smaller or larger, you can find ways to benefit from the money. • Contribute to your IRA. You’ve got until April 18 to fully fund your IRA for the 2021 tax year. But if you’ve already reached the maximum for 2021, you could use your refund for your 2022 contribution. • Invest in a 529 plan. If you have children or grandchildren, you might want to invest your refund in a 529 education savings plan. A 529 plan’s earnings can grow federal income-tax free, and withdrawals are federal income-tax free, provided the money is used for qualified education expenses. • Add to the “cash” part of your portfolio. It’s generally a smart move to keep at least a portion of your overall investment portfolio in cash, or cash equivalents. Since its value won’t change, it can help cushion, at least to a degree, the effects of market volatility on your portfolio. By having cash available, you’ll be ready to take advantage of attractive investment opportunities when they arise.

• Boost your emergency fund. Ideally, this fund should contain three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. If you’re already retired, you might need this fund to cover a full year’s worth of expenses. • Reduce your debt load. The lower your debt payments, the more money you’ll have available to invest for your future. So, consider using some of your tax refund to pay off some debts, or at least reduce them, starting with those that carry the highest interest rates. • Donate to charity. Donate to a charitable organization whose work you support. And if you itemize on your tax return, part of your gift may be deductible. A tax refund is always nice to receive – and it’s even better when you put the money to good use. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, member SIPC Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling are financial advisors for the Edward Jones branch on Cedarcrest Road in Acworth. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

The Little Free Library at McCall Primary in Acworth.

“21 in 2021” Little Free Library Goal Reached BY COBB COLLABORATIVE

As the local point of contact for the Get Georgia Reading Campaign, the Cobb Collaborative works to improve third-grade reading levels in Cobb County. Data reveals children who read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely to graduate from high school — paving the way to higher education, better employment opportunities and improved health outcomes. Driven by the motivation of increasing access to books to improve reading achievement, the collaborative set a goal of installing 21 Little Free Libraries across Cobb County in 2021. In December, this goal was achieved with the installation of Little Free Libraries at McCall Primary School, Argyle Elementary School and Cumberland Community Church. 46

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

“Research tells us that starting from birth, frequent and interactive book reading is associated with cognitive and language development,” said Cobb Collaborative Executive Director Irene Barton. “One of the most successful ways to improve the reading achievement of children is to increase access to books, especially at home and in their native language. We are dedicated to the process of making that happen in our community.” Collectively, the 21 Little Free Libraries are placed in many areas across Cobb County, including schools, apartment complexes, churches and early learning centers. “We are very excited at Green Acres to have our new Little Free Library! Our community has a need, and we have wanted to do this for several years” said Green Acres Elementary School Principal Ashley Mize. “Many of our students live within walking distance to the school so it is perfect for the students to access after school and on the weekends.” Susan Ciavolino, who hosts The Bee Library, a Little Free Library at her home in Smyrna, said she’s thankful to Cobb Collaborative and Irene Barton for being a part and bringing other community members along in this initiative. The “21 in 2021” Little Free Library initiative was a quintessential collaborative effort, with support from partners including Cobb County School District, Marietta City Schools, United Way of Greater Atlanta Northwest Region, American Opportunity Foundation, Scout troops, businesses, civic associations and Greystone Power Operation Roundup. Additionally, countless supporters donated new and gently used books to help fill and maintain the Little Free Libraries. Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to putting books in the hands of children and adults in communities around the world. These book-sharing boxes remove barriers to book access by being available seven days a week, 24 hours a day with free accessibility. They operate under the “Take One, Leave One” theory, which encourages readers to not only take a book, but to leave one for others when possible. To find out where Little Free Libraries are located in your area, visit littlefreelibrary.org/ourmap. For those interested in sponsoring or hosting a Little Free Library in 2022, email Irene Barton at ibarton@ cobbcollaborative.org.

The Cobb Collaborative is a membership of nonprof it organizations, local government, businesses, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, professional organizations, associations, and citizens who share ideas, expertise and resources to meet the needs of Cobb County and its citizens.

SUMMER INTENSIVES

For rising 9th graders through high school seniors.

ART & DESIGN

Animation | Portfolio | Sequential Art | June 6-10

DANCE

Intermediate-advanced Dance | June 6-10

MUSIC

Scan to Learn More!

arts.kennesaw.edu

THEATRE

Acting | Musical Theatre | Design & Technology | June 6-10

*Cobb Summer Band Camp is open only to middle school students. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

School News

Cobb Schools Foundation Announces 2022 Scholarships

The Cobb Schools Foundation recently announced four scholarships with application deadlines in April. The Cobb Schools Foundation Senior Scholarship will be presented to up to 34 graduating seniors in the Cobb County School District, in the amount of $1,000. The application deadline is April 15. The Sen. Lindsey Tippins Scholarship will be presented to graduating seniors from Allatoona, Harrison, Hillgrove, Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb high schools. Scholarships will be awarded to four recipients from each of the five high schools, totaling 20 scholarships. At these high schools, there will be one scholarship awarded in each of the following amounts: $500, $750, $1,000 and $1,250. Applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. April 1. The Spanish-Speaking Future Educator Scholarship is for graduating seniors or graduates of Cobb County High School District, who are pursuing careers as Spanish-speaking educators. Applicants must have a plan to major in education, and applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. April 22. Applicants already holding a teaching degree, who are interested in pursuing a masters degree to help them advance into educational leadership, should apply for the Kathie Elliott Education Leadership Scholarship. Each scholarship awarded will be $1,000. Applications are due April 22. For more details and applications, visit https://bit.ly/33LNDSK.

Mark Williams, Brenden Jones, Jones’ younger brother (not a GTS student), Cade Cordle and GTS instructor Stephen Leone.

GTS Students Tops in Welding Competition

Three Georgia Trade School (GTS) students recently competed in a welding competition at Gwinnett Technical College, sponsored by the American Welding Society’s Atlanta chapter. The GTS trio competed against students from technical colleges and welding schools throughout North Georgia. Students were provided a blueprint and given a time limit. The print required advanced gas tungsten arc welding and gas metal arc welding. In addition, students were required to have a comprehensive understanding of blueprints and general fabrication. GTS student Cade Cordle won the competition, taking home a $1,000 prize, while fellow GTS student Brenden Jones finished second and won $500.

Students Eligible for Free Tutoring

Cobb County Public Library connects students to TutorATL for free online, as well as on-demand K-12 test prep and homework help. TutorATL offers support from expert tutors in more than 50 subjects, interactive workspaces and bilingual offerings. Students can use TutorATL at any Cobb library branch and access the service from home with a Cobb library card number. Cobb County public school students can access TutorATL with the Library PASS (Public Library Access for Student Success). For more information, visit tutoratl. org or the library’s K-12 Student Resources page at cobbcat.org/students.

Mount Paran Unveils Murray Innovation Center

MPCS students Will Duncan and Caitlyn Ealey offer a tour of Murray Innovation Center’s technology-enhanced active learning classroom. 48

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

On Jan. 5, Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) dedicated and unveiled the Murray Innovation Center (MIC). The building, named after a generous lead gift from the Stuart and Eulene Murray Foundation, is a much-needed 23,000-plus-square-foot addition to the current Dozier Hall high school, originally built to house just 250 students. With enrollment continuing to grow, the expansion allows MPCS to offer innovative new learning spaces for its 450 high school students. The MIC includes a digital design lab and a fabrication lab, a collegiatestyle technology-enhanced classroom, two new science labs, high school administrative offices and additional classroom and gathering spaces. The building offers a permanent storefront for Roost Coffee Co., a cafe run entirely by MPCS high school entrepreneurship classes. Because of this student-led venture, MPCS added and refined course programming in personal finance, business management, marketing and entrepreneurship.

@ the Library

NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

Cobb County Public Library System www.cobbcat.org

WEST COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY 1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw

770-528-4699

10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays

Feb. 9, 16, 23, March 2

Wednesday Weekly Chess Meetups

include open play and family-style instruction, 6-7:30 p.m. Registration is not required for open play, but family-style participants must register.

Feb. 10, 17, 24, March 3

Join the West Cobb Craft Club, 10 a.m.-noon on Thursdays. Do you knit, crochet or work with yarn? Or, do you want to learn how, while making friends? Join the group to craft and get inspired. All skill levels are welcome (especially beginners). Bring your own yarn.

Feb. 17

Thursday Explorers meet 3:30-4:20 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Ages 4-7 are welcome to enjoy a different activity at every meeting. Space is limited; registration is required.

Feb. 19

Fearless Art: Print Making! is an indoor-

outdoor program for tweens and teens, 3-4:30 p.m. When possible, this will be an outdoor experience. Dress for making art, and for the weather. Final pieces will be included in a month-long art installation at West Cobb. Registration is required; space is limited.

Feb. 28

The West Cobb Fourth Monday Book Discussion meets 6:30-7:30 p.m., and covers a variety of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, classics and new releases. There will be an alternate online option in February; visit the website for details. This month, members are reading “The Mothers” by Brit Bennett.

3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw • 770-801-5320 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays

Through February

In celebration of Black History Month, participate in the outdoor North Cobb Black History Month Scavenger Hunt. Scan the QR code on the front door to access the scavenger hunt clues, and correctly answer all clues to be entered into a drawing for a prize. The last day to enter is Feb. 28.

Feb. 8-9

The Art Experience is a two-day program that meets the second Tuesday and Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. Ages 18-plus can join Leslie Robb in exploring different styles and mediums of art. Registration is required. All supplies provided.

Feb. 8, 15, 22

Tuesday Family Storytime is 10:30-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-noon. All ages are invited for songs, stories and rhymes that enhance early literacy and social skills. Registration is required, and space is limited. Registration for the following week’s storytime will open at 10 a.m. each Thursday.

Feb. 9, 16, 23

Wednesday Family Storytime is 10:30-11 a.m. All ages are invited for songs, stories and rhymes that enhance early literacy and social skills. Registration is required, and space is limited. Registration for the following week’s storytime will open at 10 a.m. each Thursday.

Feb. 10, 17, 24, March 3

Meetup for Adults With Special Needs will take place in the

multi-purpose room, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Adults with special needs are invited, along with their caregivers, to meet new friends and enjoy stories, crafts, games, movement and music.

Feb. 12

Join the Monthly Makers, and celebrate Black History Month by making a Coil Weave Bowl, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. This ancient basket making craft still is practiced in many countries in Africa. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Feb. 17

Local historian Andrew Bramlett will lead President Trivia, 11 a.m.-noon, and share little-known facts about U.S. presidents.

Feb. 21

North Cobb Family Fun Night: Celebrate Black History Month

is set for 5-7:30 p.m. Enjoy a showing of “Black Panther,” and craft stations that highlight the achievements of famous Black Americans. AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Senior Activities CITY OF ACWORTH Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department 770-917-1234 // www.acworthparksandrecreation.org

Mondays, Wednesdays

Senior Warriors Gentle Movements. 10-10:30 a.m. Seniors 55 and older learn traditional Korean movements to increase balance, mental focus and movement. Class is instructed by Omar Welch, who is an instructor certified by the U.S. Tae Kwon-Do Federation.

Chair Yoga with Mary. 11 a.m.-noon. For adults 55 and older.

This class is conducted in a chair with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.

Tuesdays, Thursdays

Gentle Yoga With Mary. 1-2 p.m. Designed for adults 55 and

older, but ages 18 and older are welcome. This class is conducted on a mat with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.

Feb. 16

City of Acworth’s Senior Luncheon. Every third Wednesday.

Lunch is served at noon at the Acworth Community Center. After lunch, there will be bingo and prizes. This program is free to all seniors, but you must RSVP the week prior to the luncheon to attend, 770-917-1234.

ALOHA TO AGING Covenant Presbyterian Church, 2881 Canton Road, Marietta 770-722-7641 // www.alohatoaging.org

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group. Meets the second Monday each month at 2 p.m. Group discussion for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner on helpful tips and resources that provide comfort and encouragement.

Dementia Caregiver Support Group. Meets the first

Wednesday each month at 10:30 a.m. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one in or out of the home. Care provided during the meeting but must RSVP in advance.

Aloha Social Day Club. Meets Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:30

a.m.-1 p.m. Respite care for you and engaging, social activities for your loved one who no longer drives. Visit the website for details.

VETERAN CONNECTION Meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Join veterans for an informal get-together with coffee, doughnuts, camaraderie and special guest presentations at the North Cobb Senior Center. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for more information. 50

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

COBB SENIOR SERVICES North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St., Acworth // 770-975-7740 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services

Feb. 8

Tuesday Trivia: Red. 1-2 p.m. Challenge your mind with a round of trivia that is all things red.

Feb. 9

Plant Based Palate. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn how to eat a

plant-based diet and develop habits for your optimal health.

Feb. 10

Online Grocery Shopping. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn about the options available to shop for groceries online, allowing you to get your items delivered cheaply and easily.

Nutrition Lesson: Move Your Heart. 1-2 p.m. Pay attention to your heart in the month of February. Join a discussion on physical activity and how it impacts your body.

Feb. 11

Crafting Corner: Shabby Chic Containers.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Transform paper lunch bags into shabby chic containers. Cost is $3.

Learn a New Game: Think Pink! 1-2 p.m. In this

game, players randomly select a card with two singlesyllable rhyming words to work out a clue that will lead their teammates to guess the pair of words correctly.

Feb. 14

Crafting Corner: Valentine Votives. 1-2 p.m. Brighten up a clear votive by stringing beads onto wire or cord and wrapping them around the candle holder. Then, add an LED tealight. Cost is $3.

Feb. 15

Keeping Your Heart Healthy. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Discuss a multitude of topics to keep your heart healthy and strong with Josh Adeyemi from Humana.

History of Red Velvet Cake & Red Hot Candy.

1-2 p.m. Learn about the origins of red velvet cake and Red Hots candy, participate in a taste test, and enjoy a demonstration on how to make red velvet cake truffles. Cost is $3.

Feb. 17

Eating Healthy on a Budget. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn tips on cooking healthy foods at home while on a budget.

Feb. 24

Make Your Own Salsa. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Make a delectable salsa recipe, and leave with a yummy treat.

Feb. 28

Family Feud February Edition. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Compete to identify the most popular responses to a survey question posed to 100 people. This month’s game will be a friendly competition in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

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 ACWORTH | February 2022

2021

Sports and Action

Fun in the Park Contest

More than 280 photos were submitted in the 2021 Fun in the Park photo contest sponsored by Cobb County P.A.R.K.S. Photos were taken throughout the year and judged in one of three categories: general, nature and wildlife, and sports and action. With so many great photos submitted, the judges had a difficult time selecting the winners. The contest will be held again in 2022 and is open to all photographers. For information on the contest, visit www.CobbParks.org.

1st Place Pat Fahey

Nature and Wildlife

2nd Place Craig Ehler

1st Place Dennis Tudor 52

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

3rd Place Aimee Boothe

2nd Place Mabel Barba

3rd Place Jason Holtz

General Category

1st Place Jodi Holtz

2nd Place Wesley Bray

3rd Place Jason Holtz

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Advertisers

For advertising rates and information: Kim Dahnke 770-615-2779 kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com

February 2022

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com

AUTOMOTIVE KAMS Auto Service Center 770-956-4060 www.kamsauto.com

Inside cover

BUSINESS SUPPORT Lakeside Executive Suites 404-401-0225

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue www.mostlymutts.org

MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com

KennedyMathews Educational Consultants LLC 47 765-721-1212 www.kennedymathewsconsulting.com Kennesaw State University College of the Arts www.arts.kennesaw.edu

Biologic Dentistry 770-426-9994 www.biologicdentistry.com

Daniel Lee DMD, PC 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

North Cobb Christian School Front cover, 28-29 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org EVENTS Georgia Food and Wine Festival 41 www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com Bay Equity Home Loans Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644 www.jayclosesloans.com Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com Edward Jones, Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling 678-574-5166 www.edwardjones.com

Brookwood Christian School 678-401-5855 www.brookwoodchristian.com

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation 213-448-3662 www.chrisbuschatfairway.com

Chattahoochee Technical College 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu

LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org

EDUCATION & RELATED SERVICES

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

FINANCIAL SERVICES

DENTAL

FUNERAL SERVICES Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com

HAIR SALONS AND SPAS élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Sorrow to Strength Grief Coaching 404-542-1229 www.sorrowtostrength.com

Your CBD Store-Acworth 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com

HOME & GARDEN Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com EcoTech Services 678-427-4345 www.echotechatl.com

Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Exact Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. 770-912-0552 Findlay Roofing 770-516-5806 www.roofroof.com

26 Back cover

Georgia Roof Advisors 678-757-3477 www.georgiaroofadvisors.com

House Therapy, Betsy Manley 678-316-8368 www.betsymanley.com Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 (675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com

5 9

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

23, 37

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Serious Tree Services 5 Aid Center 17 Office: 470-629-6675 770-726-8948 24/7 Service: 404-969-9498 www.YourHearingLink.com Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 9 REAL ESTATE 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com Anchor Realty Partners 7 Malinda Howe, Broker: 404-444-0225 INSURANCE Deborah Hill: 770-361-9200 Garza Insurance Group 21 Office: 770-917-0322 404-860-1793 www.malinda-howe.com www.garzaig.com Atlanta Communities, Debi Smith 39 PEST CONTROL Direct: 404-660-6652 One Dead Bug 15 Office: 770-240-2004 678-770-5699 debismith.atlcommunities.com www.onedeadbug.com Compass, Liz Mensey Inside cover PHOTOGRAPHY Mobile: 404-398-8110 Brittany Weir Photography 51 Office: 404-668-6621 678-514-9267

Keller Williams Realty, Joannie Bates Cell: 770-363-2752 Office: 678-631-1700 joanniebatessells.kw.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD Bar North 678-403-8650 www.barnorthkennesaw.com

Sweet Zensations 3 678-653-5515 www.sweetzensationsicecreamtruck. com RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

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

SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES Celebration Village 678-594-3570 www.cvillage.com

Inside cover

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Be A

! r e n n i W

READERS’

CHOICE Award 2022

New THIS YEAR! Get an early start in promoting your business to be the next Readers’ Choice winner. Our contest will look a little different this year. Our goal is to maximize publicity for your business; we’ll provide tools to help you promote your business.

Dates to Remember NOW Learn more about our 2022 contest at aroundacworthmagazine.com.

MARCH 1-31 Nominations accepted. Top 5 in each category will move on to the voting phase.

MAY 1-31

Learn how to be a winner! Visit aroundacworthmagazine.com 56

AROUND ACWORTH | February 2022

Voting!

JULY ISSUE Winners announced. (Top vote-getter and two finalists.)

2-22 Around Acworth webfinal.pdf

Articles inside

Senior Events

Library Events

School News

Cobb Collaborative

J.R. Lee

Dr. Haiden Nunn

Downtown Dining Guide

Community Calendar

Jennifer Bonn

Ryan Blythe

Trevor Beemon

Pages 28

Dale Hoeflinger

Greg Fonzeno

Local News

Wayne Dennard

Tommy Allegood

Celebrations

Around Acworth

Susan Schulz

Vicki Davis