4-22 AroundWoodstock webfinal.pdf

LIVING HAPPIER IN RETIREMENT

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appiness has no age limit! Research shows that happiness plays an important role in a healthier, more satisfying life, especially for seniors. Social connections, active engagement in life and a sense of belonging are all important keys to happiness in older adults.

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We invite you to discover why so many people are living happier (and healthier!) lives in retirement at St. George Village. Call 678-987-0409 for information, or visit us online at stgeorgevillage.org, and on Facebook. *St. George Village is Roswell’s only LifePlan community, offering independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing neighborhoods.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

1

Contents April 2022

Contributors 50 Christopher Brazelton

The Haas Team

33 Charlice Byrd

10 Michael Caldwell

On the Cover

36 Cherokee Office of Economic Development

Realtor Lindsay Haas has a warehouse full of items she uses to stage the homes she’s selling.

It’s one of many tools in her arsenal to make sure her clients get higher offers.

32 Rabbi Daniel Dorsch 43 Dr. James Haley 46 Barbara Jacoby

Pages 28 & 29

38 Harry Johnston

Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits

26 Susannah MacKay

14

Shop Local!

Support local businesses with the help of this shopping guide to Main Street in downtown Woodstock.

20

Volunteer Spotlight

Local nonprofits brag on their volunteers, who are making a difference in our community.

48 Rob Macmillan

22 Margaret Miller

24 Christopher Purvis 51 John Rodgers 30 Susan Schulz

44 Speed for Need

49 Dr. Mary Swantek 42 Mary Tucker

In Every Issue 4 Around Woodstock 8 Downtown Events

12 Celebrations

14 Shop Local Map 16 Local News

40 Everyday Angels

47 Recent Home Sales 48 Rob’s Rescues

51 Library Events

52 Community Calendar

2

34

Celebrating Earth Day

The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, Woodstock and Canton make it easy to go green.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

54 Directory of Advertisers

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232 Creekstone Ridge | Woodstock, GA 30188 AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

3

Around Woodstock

Letter From the Managing Editor

Welcome to spring! I’m the new managing editor for Aroundabout Local Media, with a focus on Around Acworth and Around Kennesaw magazines, and I’d like to tell you a little bit about myself.

I’m happy to say I was born and raised in Cobb County – a Smyrna native and proud Campbell High Panther – and there doesn’t seem to be many of us around anymore. I did leave for a couple of years to pursue other adventures in Texas and Massachusetts, but I made it known that I would be moving back home. I settled in Kennesaw in 2001 and couldn’t be happier with my decision to live here.

After earning my bachelor's degree in journalism from Georgia State University, I began a career in community journalism that has spanned almost 25 years and has included working as a reporter for one weekly and three daily newspapers, and two lifestyle magazines.

During my writing career, I’ve covered different beats, but my favorites have been features and education. I like telling people’s stories and reporting on what our next generation is learning and achieving.

I have one son, Colton, who married the love of his life, Casey, in 2020, and they’re about to make me a Nana. My granddaughter is due May 5, and I’m beyond excited.

Besides looking forward to my first grandchild, I’m anticipating staying busy adjusting to my new position.

Being the new kid, I still have a lot to learn, but I’m thrilled to be here.

Turn to Pages 14-15 to see what else is new from ALM. We have included the downtown Woodstock map that highlights restaurants and retailers. In the interest of supporting our local business owners, we thought we’d offer you an excuse to get outside, enjoy the beautiful weather and spend a little money in our community. This might be a good chance to get a really early start on your holiday shopping! Wouldn’t your friends and family be impressed?

As I settle into my new position, I continue to be amazed at the growth in Cherokee County. I look forward to being a part of the ALM team that brings you positive, relevant and uplifting articles. See you around town!

READERS’

CHOICE Award

Prepare to

vote MAY! in

2022

www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com

What’s New

Jersey Mike’s Subs has opened at 12050 Highway 92. The grand

opening, held by franchise owners Shana and Carlos Gonzales, included a fundraiser for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Jersey Mike’s is known for in-store baked bread stuffed with premium meats and cheeses. 470-508-0058. www.jerseymikes.com.

What’s Closed

Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department has temporarily closed the tennis and pickleball courts at Dupree Park for renovation.

Renovation of the tennis and pickleball courts is expected to be completed in mid-April, weather permitting. www.woodstock.recdesk.com.

Kudos!

Katie O’Connor has been promoted to deputy community

development director. She has served as senior city planner since December 2015. Katie began working for the city with an internship as assistant program coordinator for the Sustainable Woodstock program in June 2010, and was hired later that year as a development services representative and then promoted to development services supervisor in 2012.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings

Coosa Valley Credit Union, 12178 Highway 92, Woodstock, 706-235-8551. www.cvcu.com.

IN WDSTK Ribbon Cutting

Donna Harris Donna Harris is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She’s a veteran journalist with newspaper and magazine experience, and is excited to bring her expertise to ALM. Email her at donna@ aroundaboutmagazines.com.

4

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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

Our Mission

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

Results With Us

"I know so many small businesses and individuals look at the magazine. It is the very FIRST place I go to find a local vendor and have had such great success with finding good vendors."

- Diane Offutt, Accounting Solutions

Advertise With Us

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com President Kim Dahnke 770-778-5314 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 Donna Harris 770-852-8481 donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com Content 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

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

Get Social With Us! E Q

@AroundWoodstockMagazine @around_woodstock

← Subscribe to our newsletter!

Around Woodstock, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month.

Around Woodstock welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month.

Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Woodstock, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned.

Around Woodstock is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2022.

Volume 9, Issue 6

6

www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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IN town

Woodstock April 1-30

At 10 a.m. April 1, participants in the 2022 Discover WDSTK Scavenger Hunt can find a clue sheet on Woodstock’s social media pages and at www.visitwoodstockga.com/scavenger-hunt. Teams will gather photographic evidence of their journey through 100 different venues in Woodstock, competing to win a $100 Downtown Dollars Gift Certificate and prizes donated by Woodstock businesses.

April 4

DJ Bingo begins at 7 p.m. Mondays at Woodstock Beer Market. Have fun, test your musical knowledge and win prizes. https://visitwoodstockga.com/ events.

April 6

Trivia Night begins at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at Reformation Brewery in

Woodstock. Grab a team and a pint. Prizes for first-, second- and third-place teams. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.

April 10

Shop locally-made goods at Maker’s Mash, a pop-up shop featuring local artisans, every second Sunday, 1-6 p.m., at Reformation Brewery in Woodstock. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.

April 16

The Woodstock Farm Fresh Market is open Saturdays through Dec. 17, 8:30 a.m.-noon. The market is located downtown, on Market Street and in Reformation Brewery’s backyard. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.

April 23

A Night to Celebrate Chastity Schug Concert is coming to

Woodstock’s Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater. Enjoy music

by Elton Live!, an Elton John cover band. Proceeds to benefit the Schug family. https://cherishchasityconcert.eventbrite.com.

Weekend of April 30

Register your yard sale for the Woodstock City Wide Yard Sale by 5 p.m. April 11. Your yard sale signs will announce your own dates and times. https://bit.ly/3sUIXnO.

May 7

The Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl is 2-6 p.m. in downtown Woodstock.

Crawl-goers are encouraged to visit participating restaurants, and enjoy food and beverage specials. https://visitwoodstockga.com/event-group/pub-crawls.

The HOPE Center's Walk for Life 2022 kicks off at 9 a.m. at the Event Green at Woodstock Arts Village. The 1.6-mile walk is a round-trip route on Noonday Creek Trail. https://supporthopecenter.com.

May 15

North Georgia artists will gather for Art on the Green, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Woodstock Arts Event Green. Art displayed will include paintings, mixed media, photography, hand-crafted jewelry, eccentric gifts and more. https:// woodstockarts.org/events/art-on-the-green-spring-2022.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

WOODSTOCK ARTS www.woodstockarts.org

Through April 17

“Coded Realities: Art + Technology” is an

interactive exhibit in the Reeves House that explores the intersection between technology and art.

April 9

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

April 8

iThink Improv is back and ready to get its

audiences rolling down the aisles with laughter.

Recommended for ages 10-plus (content).

April 21-June 19

“Stacie Rose,” a solo exhibit in the Reeves House, features a mixture of gestural mark making, process and hard geometric lines.

April 22-May 8

“Sister Act” follows wannabe star Dolores Van Cartier, who witnesses a murder and is put into hiding at a church as a nun. Recommended for ages 13-plus (language, some violence).

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

May 14: Naughty Professor May 28: Aditya Prakash Ensemble July 2: Sub-Radio July 16: Kyshona Armstrong

WOODSTOCK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com.

May 14: Marshall Charloff & Purple Xperience June 11: Sister Hazel July 9: Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors Aug. 13: Black Jacket Symphony — Hotel California Sept. 10: Scotty McCreery

WOODSTOCK PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS woodstockparksandrec.com // 770-592-6000, Ext. 1955 Registration is required for all programs.

Through April

TrailStory gives children in grades K-6 and their families a fun, active way to read a book and enjoy Woodstock’s trails at the same time. This month, from dawn to dusk, visit the Trestle Rock Trail in Olde Rope Mill Park to read “Last Stop on Market Street” by Mat De Lapena and Christian Robinson. Registration not required.

April 10

Discovering Disc Golf is a three-class series. April's session will focus on approach shots and putting, 2 p.m., at Dupree Park Prodigy Par 2 disc golf course. Equipment for the class is provided. Cost is $5.

April 16

Join Amped in the Park with Strongside, 9 a.m., for a free outdoor workout at the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater.

Stop by the Gazebo in the Park at City Center, 11 a.m., for a free Storytime Live! With Fancy Nancy.

April 21

Learn how to manage your beehive in a real-time, handson way with Shannon Sorescu, 7 p.m., at 311 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Bee Hive Maintenance is for new and established beekeepers. Bee protective clothing/gear required. Registration fee is $50; it covers second-quarter classes (April, May and June).

April 23

Essential Gardening: Cutting Gardens, 10 a.m. at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock, covers plant selection of annuals, perennials and woody plants. The Cherokee Master Gardeners will teach you how to transform your garden or landscape into a source of beautiful bouquets. Cost is $5.

Discovering Gold Panning, 1 p.m., at 223 Arnold

Mill Road in Woodstock, is a historical and functional introduction to panning for gold, enabling a participant to pan the authorized gold creeks of Woodstock and Cherokee County. Cost is $5.

Discovering Fishing is an introductory class, 9 a.m.,

at Dupree Lake in Dupree Park, designed to teach participants the basics. Equipment is provided. Cost is $5.

April 30

SKILLS: Gun Safety is taught by an instructor from the Woodstock Police Department, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Cost is $5.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

9

A

A Message From the

s our city’s new mayor, one of my first official duties was to present the State of the City address to our council and the public. Our city’s business association, IN WDSTK, was kind enough to host the event at the Woodstock Arts Theatre, with about 150 attendees. The State of the City is intended to provide an overview on the condition of our community and to set a vision moving forward.

My speech highlighted that our city is leading from a position of strength. With publications like Homes.com and Money Magazine ranking Woodstock among the best places to live in America, Safewise.com calling us one of the safest cities in the state, and an unemployment rate resting at a historic low of 2.8%, the state of our city is strong and growing stronger.

Our city’s revenues have outpaced projections and expenses, our reserves are growing and, most importantly, we have kept a tremendously responsible low-debt ratio, all while maintaining some of the lowest property tax rates in Georgia.

Our population has grown from 4,500 in 1990 to more than 35,000 in 2020, which establishes us as the largest city in Cherokee County and the 29th largest city in Georgia. There is no way around it: We have built a place people want to be.

With growth has come some major challenges. We’ve seen strain on our transportation network and other city services. During my speech, I reminded the audience that though these problems must be solved, nearly every other community in America would do anything in their power to have these problems. We face the problems that come with success and an attractive community, rather than those with a declining city whose people can’t wait to leave. Our position is strong, and we can shift these problems into opportunities.

Despite nearly 50% growth in population over the past 10 years, our Woodstock Police Department effected a 44% reduction in crime in our city during the same period. While the metro Atlanta region is seeing historic crime spikes, our city has cut crime in half. Meanwhile, our award-winning fire department has seen a record number of calls, and they are

meeting these needs with a newly established training officer and eye to the future.

Traffic and parking have become chief pressure points in our city over the past decade. Our public works department is proposing the first10-Year Comprehensive Transportation Plan in our city’s history. We’re among a small handful of cities statewide that will have established this level of long-term planning, and with projects like our Hub Transformation Project underway, to dramatically improve our downtown traffic flow, we’re well on our way to the next generation of Woodstock infrastructure.

We’ve long established Woodstock as a great place to live and play. We’re engaging in a concerted effort to begin attracting employers to our city to diversify our commercial mix and to encourage more of our residents to work a short distance from home. We’re not chasing Fortune 500 headquarters. We’re chasing small business employers who create 80% of the jobs in our state, many of whom already live in our city, and we’re going to bring their businesses back home. This will have a dramatic impact on our traffic footprint and, more importantly, our residents’ quality of life.

You can watch my entire address at www.mayorcaldwell. com/news/2022-state-of-the-city-address.

We’ve built our city into something special. I am calling on us to lean in. Together, we will build a community that is connected through walkable grid-streets and trail systems.

Together, we will build a forward-looking city by ensuring our home ownership rates remain high, and our plans for the future are data-driven. Together, we will build a safe city that values the public safety personnel and public servants who work on our behalf each and every day.

Together, we will build a city that will be worth passing on to our children.

— Mayor Michael Caldwell

Michael Caldwell is the 31st mayor of Woodstock, a retired state legislator, member of the Georgia Technology Authority, partner at Black Airplane, husband to Katie, and father to Oliver, Elizabeth and Charlotte.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com May deadline is April 5. Please specify Around Woodstock.

Dwight and Tracey

April 4 Happy anniversary, beautiful! You are truly a gift from God to me! I love you more and more everyday! -Dwight

Happy fourth birthday, Quinn!

You bring us so much joy!

We are proud of you and love you so much! Have an amazing day, sweet girl.

Love, Mommy, Daddy and Abby

Allison Gibbs

Happy 11th birthday, Saanvi!

Happy 16th, Cameron!

Knightley Kerrington

Happy 11th birthday!

You mean the world to us!

All our love, Mommy, Daddy and your entire family!

Brixtin

Happy 10th birthday, Brixtin!

We love you!

- Mom, Dad and Oaks 12

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Happy birthday, Jane!

On March 21, Jane Michels celebrated her 100th birthday at the Oaks in Towne Lake.

She is quite the fashionista, with a quick wit and great sense of humor.

Age 16 on March 30 Always shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars!

We are so proud of you!

Love you, Dad and Mom

You bring us such joy.

We are very proud of you.

With lots of love, Dada, Dadi, Veer, Papa and Mummy

Age 5 on April 16 Happy birthday, Knightley K! Wishing you a year full of unlimited happiness and love.

Love, Mommy and Bonnie Bon

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DOWTOWN WOODSTOCK DIRECTORY

Share the Love.

Shop

Local.

SHOP E E K J K H E C K C F

DownTown Wo Downtown

D ANTIQUES BY SAMSON AND DELILAH BLUE FROG IMPORTS G BRANCHES BOUTIQUE C BRENDA'S HOUSE OF FLOWERS B BROOKLYNN'S E ANTIQUES

BY SAMSON AND DELILAH D CHRISTINE’S CREATIONS E BLUE FROG IMPORTS DARE TO BE DIFFERENT K BRANCHES BOUTIQUE E DIVE GEORGIA J BRENDA'S HOUSE OF FLOWERS DRESS UP K BROOKLYNN'S EQUINOX ART COLLECTIVE H CHRISTINE’S CREATIONS FASHION CUPCAKE E DARE TO BE DIFFERENT FINDLAY ROWE C DIVE GEORGIA K FOXTALE BOOK K DRESS UPSHOPPE J HOLLY C SPRINGS EQUINOX JEWELERS ART COLLECTIVE A LEANING LADDER OLIVE OILS F FASHION CUPCAKE I FINDLAY ROWE & VINEGARS N K FOXTALE BOOK SHOPPE LITTLE RIVER CLOTHING & OUTDOORS K MERCANTILE E HOLLY SPRINGS JEWELERS MADE N LEANING LADDER OLIVE OILS K MADISONN AVENUE & VINEGARS K MAXWELL'S CIGAR BAR A LITTLE RIVER CLOTHING & OUTDOORS L PINEAPPLE PARK E MADE MERCANTILE C QUEEN B’S BOUTIQUE & STUDIO K MADISONN AVENUE B QUEEN CUSTOM COUTURE C MAXWELL'S CIGAR BAR K SEVEN NO ARROWS PINEAPPLE PARK C SPIRITED SO QUEEN B’S BOUTIQUE & STUDIO K THESOWRIGHT COLLECTIBLES QUEENSTUFF CUSTOM COUTURE G E &SEVEN WAGS WIGGLES PET BOUTIQUE ARROWS E F SPIRITED WANDERESS COLLECTIONS E THE WRIGHT STUFF COLLECTIBLES NO WOODSTOCK PHARMACY C WAGS & WIGGLES PET BOUTIQUE G SWEET READS

SHOP

Our mission statement is the I measure by which we determine N our editorial content each month: K sharing hyperlocal, positive content with you. So, it made N perfect sense to take that a step further and build on what we A began during the Thanksgiving E and Christmas seasons: encouraging you to shop locally by K giving you a map to follow.

C After so many challenges in NO recent years, now is a perfect time SO to take advantage of this beautiful SO spring weather and visit our local E retailers. They’ll be happy to see you, and you can leave with the F satisfaction that you’ve been a part E of contributing to the economic C development of our amazing K community.

Special thanks to Brian Stockton, E director of economic development SO for the city, and other Woodstock K WANDERESS COLLECTIONS officials, for sharing this map with E WOODSTOCK PHARMACY us. We’ll do our best to keep it SO SWEET READS updated — not an easy task, with WE A NEW YOU SKIN AND the way our city is growing!

If you see something missing, or BODY CLINIC have any ideas for supporting our C ALKALINE DRYYOU BARSKIN AND WE A NEW city, please let us know by emailing G BEAUTYBODY MARK STUDIO CLINIC edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

K EMBER C HOT YOGA ALKALINE DRY BAR We’d love to hear from you.

G BEAUTY G INGRID’S SPA MARK STUDIO K STREET EMBER NAIL HOT YOGA J MAIN STUDIO G SPA B SALON INGRID’S SPA VENESSA J STREET NAIL STUDIO “Helping local businesses E SALON MAIN BASTILLE B SALON SPA VENESSA grow and prosper by offering N SALON W E SALON BASTILLE affordable advertising I STUDIO 68 SALON N SALON W opportunities in a quality N WOODSTOCK AQUATIC CENTER I STUDIO 68 SALON M WOODSTOCK HAIR publication that provides N WOODSTOCK AQUATIC CENTER SALON & SPA positive, relevant information M WOODSTOCK HAIR to our readers.”

SALON & SPA

REFRESH

REFRESH

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

ENJOY

DOWNTOWN PLAYGROUND @ WOODSTOCK ARTS MADLIFE STAGE & STUDIOS THE BLUE GHOST ARCADE & BAR WOODSTOCK ARTS THEATER PLAYGROUND D DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK ARTS EVENT GREEN @ WOODSTOCK ARTS & REEVES HOUSE G MADLIFE STAGE & STUDIOS WOODSTOCK VISITORS CENTER C THE BLUE GHOST ARCADE & BAR & BRAND STORE

ENJOY

WOODSTOCK ARTS THEATER WOODSTOCK ARTS EVENT GREEN & REEVES HOUSE E WOODSTOCK VISITORS CENTER CANYON'S & BRANDFRESH STOREGRILL B

D

EAT & DRINK

J E K F F F B G D J E N N J

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EAT & DRINK

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

15

Local News

A Pause in The Action at Dixie Speedway

Races at Dixie Speedway have been paused temporarily, as the family focuses on caring for Martha Swims, who has cancer, according to a February post on Dixie Speedway Facebook page.

“We have always done everything as a family, including racing. And now, we are blessed to come together and rally around Martha as she continues the fight,” the post reads.

“With the exception of the end of last season, Mickey and Martha have been at every race together during their 50-plus years of racing. Since Martha will not attend races this season, Mickey feels his place is to be home with her.”

Sheriff Frank Reynolds, left, with Amy Turcotte and Marcie Smith of the Children’s Haven, and Chief Deputy Tommy Pinyon.

Frank Reynolds Charities Supports Children

Frank Reynolds Charities recently made donations to two local organizations, with proceeds from the annual charity golf tournament held in October 2021. The first donation of $15,000 was made to the Anna Crawford Children’s Center, which works to prevent child abuse and neglect. www. cherokeechildadvocates.org.

The second $15,000 donation went to the Children’s Haven, which supports the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse. https:// cherokeechildrenshaven.org.

“I want to thank everyone who helped organize and sponsor the golf tournament, as well as all the people who played in the annual event,” Sheriff Frank Reynolds said. “Your involvement helped us make a huge impact on these two wonderful organizations here in Cherokee County.”

2021 Donations Help Community Charities Credit Union of Georgia demonstrated its commitment to the community by donating more than $85,000 to local charities in 2021, thanks to various fundraisers. Credit union employees nominate and vote annually to select the charities to support, which includes donations of money and flood, clothing, toys and hygiene items, as well as time volunteering.

The 2021 charities chosen were: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; MUST Ministries; Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue; the Children’s Haven and the Salvation Army. www.cuofga.org.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

New Display Space for Local Artists Artists in North Georgia, metro Atlanta and beyond soon will have a new place to share their visions: Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center (FPAC). Anticipated to open next fall, portions of the Ken White Atrium will be available for artists to rent and exhibit their creations.

“There are so many wonderful artists in our area, but we don’t have an art gallery in Waleska for them to showcase their work. Opening this space for exhibits provides a great opportunity for artists,” FPAC Director Jessica Akers said.

“The Falany welcomes over 15,000 visitors of all ages during a traditional performing arts season, enabling much exposure for artists.”

Artists will be able to rent the entire gallery or a specified area. The space also will accommodate opening receptions. Most artwork displayed will be available for purchase, with opportunities to display paintings, pottery, sculptures, textiles and other works. Artists interested in exhibiting their work should email Akers at jca@reinhardt.edu. www.reinhardt.edu/falany-performing-artscenter-expands-to-visual-arts.

Auditions Coming Soon for Musicians, Vocalists

Musicians and vocalists are invited to take part in a talent search, showcasing contemporary Christian music, 1950s-60s rock and soul, Christmas music, Motown sounds, background singers, soprano, alto, tenor and bass vocalists (male and female), brass, woodwinds, strings and percussionists in the intermediate, advanced or expert levels.

Anyone interested in auditioning is asked to submit a demo MP3 or MP4 file, in order to be assigned a time slot. The audition is set for 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 23 at Bascomb United Methodist Church, 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock. Individuals who do not send a demo will be scheduled into the remaining time slots. Individuals age 16 and older with intermediate to expert skills are encouraged to audition.

A full sound system will be available; those who audition don’t need to bring amplifiers.

In-ear monitors are recommended. A Roland TD-17KV will be available for drummers. For more details, email timgrady01@gmail.com with a subject line of Auditions.

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Home Town Honey Inc. 770-428-4903 E Q

Cobb Couple Reap Sweet Success Honey Producers Blossom From Gardeners to National Award Winners

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n 1992, Brian and Kim Higgins decided to build a few hive boxes to attract honeybees to their property.

The couple wanted to grow fruits and vegetables, but weren’t having any luck.

An agent of the Cobb County Extension Service said the reason was the lack of honeybees for pollination.

Fast forward to 2022. The Higgins now run Home Town Honey, a nationally known, award-winning company, and have created a line of honey products they sell at more than 100 retail outlets in metro Atlanta. Products also are available at local farmers markets, from Brookhaven to Kennesaw, including the Cobb County Farm Bureau market at Lost Mountain Park.

“It feels like overnight we went from building our own hive boxes to having five farms in Kennesaw, Acworth, Woodstock, Marietta and Cartersville, and winning the national award for the best honey in the nation,” Brian said. “We have been proud members of the Georgia

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State Beekeepers Association since 1995 and support The University of Georgia’s bee research lab.”

Home Town Honey is 100% pure, raw local honey; many customers buy it to help control their allergies. Other products include beeswax candles, bee pollen, honey soaps, liquid-filled honey candy, honey straws and lip balms.

In addition to the medicinal qualities of honey, some customers have come up with creative ways to share the product.

“We bottle and sell 2-ounce honey bears for baby showers. Clients will tie a blue or pink ribbon around the bear’s neck and tag them, Baby to Bee, to give as shower gifts,” Brian said. “We also bottle 2-ounce hex jars of honey for wedding favors. The couple will print their own label saying, Thank You for sharing this day with me and my Honey, and include their names and date on the label.”

The Higgins incorporated in 2001, after

From left, Kim Higgins, Tyler Jasper, Brian Higgins, Aimee Prestridge and Amber Swearingen. Employees not pictured: Sandra and Bryon Wilson, Colin Moore, Brooke Cobb, Madison Ballard and Veronica Delanuez.

starting the company in 1995. Because honey is considered food, the Higgins have to obtain all the proper licenses, and meet Georgia Department of Agriculture and U.S. Food and Drug Administration requirements.

Home Town Honey is a member of the Metro Atlanta Beekeepers club, Georgia Beekeepers association, and the American Beekeepers Federation. In 2016, the company won first place at the American Beekeepers Federation national convention for their wildflower honey.

Brian has served six years on the board of directors for the Cobb County Farm Bureau and has served as a director on the Georgia State Honey Commodity Board for the last five years.

The couple are lifelong Cobb County residents. He is a Sprayberry High graduate, and Kim went to Lassiter High. The business has been a family affair through the years, as their children, Sandra and Branden, have helped with in-school field trips, bottling and labeling jars, making deliveries to stores and manning the booth at farmers markets.

To find a retail outlet near you, check the list of retailers and farmers markets at www.atlantashometownhoney.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

17

Local News

Bans Lifted at Senior Centers

Cherokee County Senior Services has lifted capacity limitations and resumed normal business hours at its senior centers. The senior center in Canton is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, and is closed Saturdays and Sundays.

The Ball Ground Senior Center is open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-noon Fridays, and is closed Saturdays-Mondays. Masks continue to be required in Canton and Ball Ground, but social distancing requirements have been lifted.

For both centers, clients will have their temperatures checked each day, and staff and clients who feel sick will not be allowed to enter. Clients who take CATS transportation will have their temperature checked before boarding the bus.

For more details, call 770-345-2675.

Margaret Stallings

Kevin Lanier

App Helps Plan River Trips Georgia River Network, the only statewide advocacy organization dedicated solely to protecting Georgia’s water, has released the Georgia River Guide mobile application – a free trip-planning tool designed to empower river recreationists to experience Georgia’s network of more than 30 water trails. With a few simple taps, users can discover nearby water trails and learn about safe public access points, river mileage between accesses, points of interest, nearby shuttle services and more. More information about the app, and links to download it, can be found on the Georgia River Network website at garivers.org/georgiariverguide.

A Meeting of Mayoral Minds

The Cherokee Association of Realtors (CAOR) hosted a Meet the Mayors panel at the February general membership meeting, which included Mayors Rick Roberts of Ball Ground, Bill Grant of Canton and Michael Caldwell of Woodstock.

The mayors discussed topics that included countywide growth, traffic solutions, school overcrowding and what new things are on the horizon in each of their cities.

“It was an honor to have our local mayors attend this meeting and speak to our membership.

Giving Realtors the knowledge and information on important topics pertaining to our communities is so valuable for our business and our clients,” said Iva Rebecca Butler, 2022 association president.

The association offers six annual, general membership meetings. For more information, visit www.cherokeerealtors.org.

Participants at the event include, front row, from left: Al Moreno, Barbara Young, Bill Grant, Iva Rebecca Butler, Michael Caldwell and Rick Roberts. Back row, from left: Camille Gard, Robin Wright, Dolores Wahl, Andrea Meador, Dianna Hornes, Jeff Leshin and Mike Stott.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Michael Caldwell

Awards and Appointments • Longtime Planning Manager Margaret Stallings has been named Cherokee County’s director of planning and zoning.

Stallings was promoted to the director position in February, following the retirement of Jeff Watkins last summer. She has more than 21 years of experience in community planning and architectural design.

• Former Cherokee County Fire Division Chief Kevin Lanier is the new deputy chief of operations, replacing Shane West, who has been appointed as the new deputy chief of support services.

• Newly elected Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell has been named one of the 2022 Georgia TITAN 100.

The program recognizes Georgia’s Top 100 CEOs and C-level executives. Caldwell is managing partner of Black Airplane.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT  The business.

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Budget Blinds can be found throughout North America, making it the largest window coverings franchise, according to Woodstock and Roswell store owner Karin Cardinal. “With that buying power, we can offer competitive pricing and a five-year, No Questions Asked Warranty,” Karin said. “Why buy off the shelf when you can have gorgeous window coverings made especially for you?” Budget Blinds makes it easy; schedule a free consultation and Karin will help choose the perfect solution for your home. She takes custom measurements and places the order; then she and her team provide updates and professionally install the window treatments.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

19

The Value of

Honoring Those Who’ve Made a Difference National Volunteer Week (April 17-23 this year) began in 1974, when President Richard Nixon signed an executive order establishing the week as an annual celebration of volunteering. In 1991, April became National Volunteer Month as part of President George H. W. Bush’s 1,000 Points of Light campaign.

Although COVID-19 created challenges that encouraged many volunteers to get creative in the way they serve, an increase in volunteerism is expected to continue this year. According to AmeriCorps (https://americorps.gov) 2,123,245 Georgia volunteers contribute 187.9 million hours of service annually.

To highlight those making a difference in our community, local nonprofits submitted spotlights, in which they brag on their volunteers. Thank you for all you do to make our community a better place!

Goshen Valley’s class of 2020 graduates. Photo courtesy of Goshen Valley Boys Ranch.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch

Waymark is a ministry that has been connected to Goshen Valley Boys Ranch (https://goshenvalley.org) for years. It serves children in foster care and, in particular, the individuals who serve at the ranch are a group of mostly men who come weekly to connect with a house of seven boys through mentoring, bringing dinner and studying the Bible. The most impactful part of this ministry is the volunteers are there week in and week out, consistently. Our boys are missing consistency from the adults in their lives, and this routine makes all the difference.

During periods when COVID-19 prevented the volunteers from coming, they got creative. They brought food and dropped it on the front porch, met with the boys via Zoom and offered to come to the ranch and talk to the boys through their windows so that “they would know that they were not forgotten.” The ministry’s volunteers support the boys, houseparents and our ministry, and they live out an authentic Christianity that has hands and feet by doing and not just saying.

Next Step Ministries

“Generous persons will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” — Proverbs 11:25 Next Step Ministries, Inc. is on a mission to enrich the lives of individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities through engaging, enriching and therapeutic day programs. In order to best serve our families, we call upon our community to volunteer to further enrich the programs.

Nearly 10 years ago, Next Step Ministries happened upon a real-life hero when Al Cato walked through its doors. A few years later, his daughter, Kelly Pearson, joined in on the action.

This amazing father-daughter duo are instrumental in sharing the Next Step story and recruiting volunteers from Hillside United Methodist Church, where they are members.

It all started with gardening, when Al brought some folks from Hillside to build raised flower boxes, so our individuals would have the opportunity to grow and cultivate their own garden. He recruited others to build custom doors for our sensory room, and a shelving/gate unit in our day program.

These days, the dynamic duo enjoy accompanying our individuals on bowling trips to the local Stars and Strikes. They can be seen assisting our individuals in perfecting their bowling form, beating their high score and, best of all, being powerful ambassadors for Next Step Ministries.

According to Al and Kelly, “We cherish every moment we are with our friends from Next Step. Working with each individual and support professionals has impacted us in ways we couldn’t have predicted and is a big part of our lives. We love sharing in little moments when our friends let their talent, ability and personality shine.

We consider it a great privilege that we get the chance to interact with such amazing people.

Because of our friends at Next Step, we get to experience genuine happiness, pure friendship and countless laughs.”

We encourage any individual, group, faithbased organization, corporation, educational institution or small business that is looking to plug into a very special ministry to reach out to Next Step Ministries, Inc. Your eyes will be opened, and your hearts will be full when you experience the amazing and beautiful world we get to experience each day, while the lives of those we serve are enriched. For more information, visit www.nextstepministries.net, email volunteer@ nextstepministreis.net, or call 770-592-1227.

The Children’s Haven | CASA Cherokee

“Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story.” — Josh Shipp CASA (court-appointed special advocates) of Cherokee County trains, empowers and supports court-appointed community volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Our CASAs strive to ensure every child has a safe, permanent home and the opportunity to succeed.

It is difficult to single out a volunteer to spotlight, because each court-appointed special advocate is incredible and dedicated to each child they serve. Our CASAs stand by their CASA children throughout their journey in the foster care system. Each child deserves someone in their corner, a cheerleader and someone who is completely focused on their best interest. That is the job of a CASA volunteer. Whether it is being the child’s voice in court, celebrating special moments with them, such as attending their school play or sporting event, CASAs connect with their assigned children in many unique ways. Often, the child does not have another devoted adult in his or her life to be a part of those special times. These are ways that our advocates care for and support the children they serve.

Foster care is a difficult journey, and our CASA volunteers often are that one caring adult that will help a child become a success story. We are so grateful for each and every CASA volunteer!

For more information, visit cherokeechildrenshaven.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

21

Retired From Careers, but not From Philanthropy

The Jimmy Mac Foundation

The Brassy Ladies

BY MARGARET MILLER

Lucinda Holloway and Jimmy McKinney are using their retirement to enrich the lives of others. Both are local philanthropists, in that they are devoting their time and resources to helping people. After all, philanthropists come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and levels of wealth. Though their financial resources pale in comparison with Bill and Melinda Gates, Jeff Bezos, Oprah Winfrey or Elon Musk, Holloway and McKinney probably give more of their personal time to their charitable interests than their wealthy counterparts.

Margaret Miller has been a resident of Cherokee County for the past decade.

Her writing hobby led her to become a columnist for community and daily newspapers.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Jimmy McKinney, a retired corporate leader, established his own charitable organization: the Jimmy Mac Foundation. Unlike the philanthropists mentioned earlier, McKinney is a man of modest financial means, but he has a strong desire to help people locally, as well as internationally.

The Hartford, Connecticut, native said: “I have always had a passion for helping others via mentoring, community service, outreach, etc.”

He has friends and acquaintances who also share his love of service to others; thus, the Jimmy Mac Foundation was created.

The foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; all donations are taxdeductible.

“Close to 100% of donations to the Jimmy Mac Foundation go directly toward initiatives and programs. All work is done on a volunteer basis,” McKinney said. “TNTS (The Nerve to Serve), an outreach ministry at Allen Temple AME Church, has been faithful in supplying manpower for local projects. Our marketing and overhead expenses are minimal. All of the administrative expenses are less than 1%. None of the officers are paid.”

The foundation partners with several local, national and international organizations, including MUST Ministries, Feeding America, Life for Children’s Ministries and Habitat for Humanity.

For additional information, visit www.jimmymacfoundation.org.

Lucinda Holloway is president of the Brassy Ladies, a local social-civic club that was organized nearly 15 years ago.

Its purpose was to give elderly women a group in which they could socialize monthly, by doing fun things like going out to lunch, movies, concerts, etc.

Because of the pandemic, the focus of the group, which numbers fewer than 20, has changed. The money that they previously spent on themselves now is used to help others. Their projects during the pandemic include donating to the homeless, retired military groups, nursing home staff and public school staff.

Though the pandemic prevents the ladies from gathering now, they take great pride in helping others, by preparing food for the sick, helping with housework and transporting some to doctor's appointments, among other acts of service. Holloway, who retired after 30 years of employment with the federal government, said: “A local couple was so impressed with our commitment to community service, they donated hundreds of dollars for us to use in our community.”

Now that the pandemic seems to be moving toward becoming endemic, Holloway, an energetic advocate for the elderly, said that she sees the group continuing to have fun, as well as rendering community service.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

23

Volunteers show off their muscles and the trash they collected during the 2021 Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup.

Volunteers Lead The Way to a Better Lake

BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS

April is National Volunteer Month, and a great time to recognize the volunteers on Allatoona Lake. In 2021, more than 39,000 service hours were completed by 2,272 volunteers, in efforts such as water safety, trail maintenance, fish attractors, natural resource management, shoreline cleanups, park hosting, Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout projects and many others. Allatoona offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, such as lake events, as well as positions as park hosts at day-use areas or in the Allatoona Lake Volunteer Village.

Of course, the biggest volunteer event on the lake, and perhaps in the nation, is the Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup (GLAC). This event is held every year in September and usually is in the top three Public Lands Day events in the United States. Last year, despite COVID-19 conditions, 1,625 volunteers came out for the event. The GLAC is managed by the Lake Allatoona Association (LAA) and partners with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) on this worthy environmental cleanup. LAA also sponsors the Allatoona Lake Warriors Program, which completed an additional 943 volunteer hours cleaning the lake throughout the year. This year’s GLAC is scheduled for Oct. 1.

Volunteers also work as park hosts in many USACEmanaged day-use areas. In return for a free campsite, these volunteers open and close gates, check for fee compliance and generally maintain surveillance of the areas. You probably have seen these volunteers in places such as Cooper’s Furnace, Riverside, Blockhouse, Galt’s Ferry, Victoria, Sweetwater, Kellogg Creek, Tanyard and 24

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Stamp Creek day-use areas. Interested in working and living on the lake at one of these locations? USACE still has a number of volunteer positions available. For more information, contact the USACE Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700.

Some of the best volunteer work being completed on the lake is coming out of the Allatoona Volunteer Village. This 10-site campground houses volunteers who seasonally donate their time to assist the lake office. The “village people” were responsible for completing nearly 12,000 hours last year on projects, such as pressure washing ramps and day-use areas, mowing recreation areas, maintaining trails, manning phones and radios, presenting water safety programs, assisting campground staff and many other duties. In March, we received great news that Allatoona Village volunteers Brenda Grano and her mother Wynonna Brakeman were named USACE National Volunteers of the Year! Brenda and Nony have built a recycling program at Allatoona that is second to none and have expanded the program into almost every area managed by USACE. Their passion and hard work finally paid off with this tremendous award.

Finally, don’t forget that April 22 is Earth Day! If you would like to volunteer for an Earth Day project, or if you’re interested in a park host or Volunteer Village position, call our office and ask for the volunteer coordinator.

Christopher Purvis is lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security.

He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

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25

5

Tips for

Successful Volunteering

BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY

Volunteering in the community is an amazing, positive outlet and such an uplifting way to spend your time. But, for many people, it can be hard to know how to get started.

Time constraints make it difficult, and sometimes it is hard to find an opportunity that is a good fit. But, with so many organizations doing good work in our community, there is sure to be a great opportunity for you. Here are five tips for making volunteer service a regular and enjoyable part of your life:

1. Give yourself some credit.

Ready to Get Started?

2.

• Volunteer online with the Smithsonian Institution.

You may feel compelled to get involved in the community but also feel guilty because of how little you feel you can take on. Don’t play that game! Doing even a little bit of something is better than a lot of nothing. Over time, tiny drops of water fill a glass.

Double dip! Volunteering doesn’t always have to be some “other” thing you do. Incorporate it into the patterns and schedule of your life. Want to find more social time? Invite a friend, or meet someone new while you’re there. Need a way to connect with a struggling family member? Go together, and serve. Looking for a fun activity for co-workers? Plan a service project. Want to do something productive during downtime at home?

There are opportunities for that as well. Service can be the avenue for making other things in life better, too.

Keep it simple. If you are just getting started, keep it simple. You don’t have to commit to something huge. Just commit to something! Look up an organization that needs donations, and invite your neighbors to contribute, or sign up for a single shift at a one-time event.

Then, you can build the habit from there.

Consider your passion. Be creative — find something that really sparks your interest. Is there a cause you feel strongly about or something you love to do? Consider how you could turn that skill or interest into a way to give back. From soccer to knitting, and cooking to writing, there is an opportunity for just about everything.

Make it automatic. The best way to keep community involvement easy is to make it automatic. Schedule a specific time in your week or month to remember to look for an opportunity. Or, when you are ready, commit to something regular you can look forward to. The less effort you put into maintaining your goal, the more likely you are to succeed.

3.

4.

5.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Those who are active in service have been shown to have better health, greater joy and even longer life. You truly have nothing to lose. Check out justserve.org to find opportunities near you. Here are four opportunities to consider:

Looking for a way to volunteer from home? There are so many virtual options. Check out this opportunity to help the Smithsonian with their research: https://bit.ly/3hn0izf.

• Pack lunches for kids.

Looking for another way to help from home? Gather supplies and decorate lunch bags to support at-risk kids.

All you have to do is drop them off when they are ready. https://bit.ly/3poU6Li.

• Help with a cemetery cleanup.

Sign up to help with a cemetery cleanup day near you.

The outdoor event offers a chance to meet new people, and all ages can contribute. Beautify the community, and honor families in our area. https://bit.ly/3M9MRRj.

• Volunteer at Rise Against Hunger.

This organization works through many channels to eliminate hunger. Volunteer for a shift to help pack meals, or run a fundraiser to sponsor meals. Bring your family or co-workers for a group experience. https://bit.ly/3vlro1Q. Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprofit or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!

Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist.

She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service!

Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.

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770.427.8698 • elonsalon.com • 695 Piedmont Road • Marietta AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

27

SPONSORED CONTENT

PHOTOS BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS

BEFORE

Setting the Stage

AFTER

BEFORE

for Success

Realtor’s experience in the current market results in higher offers, happier clients.

Lindsey Haas has grown her business to the point where it is selling almost 100 homes per year, with more than 95% of her business consisting of repeat clients or referrals. She is proud to be one of the top real estate agents in Cherokee County and, with the added numbers from her small team, one of the top in the north Atlanta market, according to MLS data.

While the numbers are impressive, it’s the personal experience that she prefers to focus on.

“We aren’t about the quantity of homes sold. It’s more about the quality of the experience,” Lindsey said. “We have 28 1

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022 AROUND KENNESAW | December 2021

truly mastered the fine art of real estate and, without our amazing back office, we would not be able to smoothly close all the homes that we do, with precision, and have happy clients for life. Once they go through the process with us, we have them for life as a client.”

The experience of one client sums up that Haas Team difference. Homeowners who initially decided to sell their home to a large investor switched to the Haas Team when they learned how much money they were giving up.

Ultimately, the homeowners got more money with less hassle, and “better terms

AFTER

than they were being offered from the investors,” she said. “The final closing price, minus fees and required repairs, was going to be $508,000. Using the Haas Team as the listing agent, the closing price was $575,000 and, after commission, was $547,000 — almost 15% more.”

Lindsey sold the home in one day, with one showing. And, because they used Lindsey to purchase their next home, they got a discount on the commission on the sale of their home, netting them 7% more — almost $40,000.

While that was the strategy this

The Haas Team’s full-time stagers and interior designer visit each client and determine what’s needed. They visit the team’s 3,000-square-foot warehouse in Woodstock, load up the moving truck and make the delivery, putting everything in place.

Lindsey Haas in her warehouse of staging furniture.

homeowner chose, Lindsey suggests homes be listed for 4-5 days, to take advantage of supply and demand. That strategy results in higher offers, an advantage that Lindsey offers her clients because of her level of experience.

“I understand what works in the current market; that’s why it's important to choose a Realtor with experience and production,” she said. “One great thing about Zillow is that it tracks the production of each real estate agent automatically from the MLS data, so you can truly see what they are selling and the areas they focus on. Don’t miss this critical step when choosing the right Realtor for your home.”

The Haas Team Advantage

watch transformations on HGTV; that wow factor is what they’re looking for when they shop for a new home. With our team, staging doesn’t cost anything; it’s a complimentary, vital service we provide, and it always delivers a higher sales price.”

Setting the Stage for Success Lindsey walks room to room with each client and creates a plan of action that could involve anything from necessary updates to staging. No detail is overlooked in this process, which can require bringing in just a few pieces of art, or larger pieces of furniture. Everything stays through showings, professional photography and the appraisal process.

In 2017, Lindsey and Jeremy, her husband and business partner, took their successful real estate business to the next level by acquiring a warehouse, a moving truck, investing tens of thousands in decor and furniture, and hiring a full-time stager.

The experience and strategic shift immediately began to pay off for their sellers. Ordinary homes — occupied and vacant — were transformed into a canvas for buyers to visualize their dream spaces.

Proper presentation makes a difference for the seller, Lindsey said, bringing in more offers at higher prices. That’s why they decided to offer free staging for homes priced under $800,000.

“After years of working with buyers and sellers, we saw an opportunity to elevate the experience, and maximize profits for our sellers,” she said. “Buyers

“Sellers have no idea what they are missing out on with our team. We go the extra mile by helping with proper furniture placement, recommend contractors to help take care of inspection deal killers, and bring in items to transform their home to a showstopper.

Everyone needs some level of staging and preparations, to maximize their return.

Furniture placement and color pops are key,” Lindsey said.

Online ads generate traffic to their newly staged listings. “We draw many people to our open houses and to our listings by ads,” she said. “Many of our homes sold to someone that was not in the market to buy, but saw our ad and jumped on it.

Open houses do work, and we know how to bring in the traffic and market them properly. We do them every weekend.”

Dedicated to Clients in Service Relationships are especially important to Lindsey and her team. Their desire is to treat each client like a family member, and to take every measure to assure their success. Lindsey’s team is integral to their success; she is adding more agents to provide the ultimate experience for sellers.

Operations Director Shannon Bieberichwas recently promoted. She has been working with Lindsey since 2017; Lindsey said she is the equivalent of five employees.

Operations Director Shannon Bieberich has been with the Haas Team since 2017.

“Shannon is amazing. She has a whateverit-takes attitude, and is a major part of our success in the back office and making our clients happy,” Lindsey said. “Shannon is key to taking the business to yet another level. We are so excited for 2022.”

The Lindsey Haas Team at Atlanta Communi�es Real Estate Brokerage 6478 Putnam Ford Drive, Woodstock | 678-933-1962 www.thehaasteam.net | E AROUND KENNESAW WOODSTOCK | April 2022 AROUND | December 2021

29 2

Volunteers plant trees on the campus of the retreat and conference center.

A Place of Refreshment, Restoration for God’s People

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

A hidden gem, the Land Christian Retreat and Conference Center in Woodstock celebrated its 40th anniversary serving the world’s churches last year.

The Land began as a dream of a humble couple, Paul and Mary Louise Storey. They were meeting in a small Bible study group in Marietta in the 1970s when Paul had a vision that included land with a large meeting house and homes. “My husband Paul heard a call from the Lord to provide a place for the body of Christ to come away and rest,” Mary Louise said.

It took a while for this idea to come to fruition. In April 1981, Paul and Mary Louise felt the time had come to search for property to fulfill their vision.

A beautiful, serene 37 acres at 2135 E. Cherokee Drive was purchased, and a 30

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

rich legacy of restoration and equipping of God’s people began.

Mary Louise said the Land belongs to the Lord under the direction of Christian Outreach Ministries, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit that does ministry as the Land. Its mission is simple: to be “a gathering place for the body of Christ to be refreshed, restored and equipped to make disciples of Christ for his kingdom.”

The 40th anniversary celebration turned bittersweet when the vibrant, 93-year-old founder, Paul Storey, passed away on Sept. 3, 2021. “Paul’s legacy lives on here at the Land, and our purpose remains the same,” Mary Louise said. “Our desire has always been to implement in every way possible the answer to Jesus’ prayer that all be one in him.”

Construction on the large, two-story meeting and retreat house, which they call the Big House, began first. Other amenities were added including: • P. E. Storey Sanctuary: a place to worship and learn (maximum capacity 250) • Mission Campground cabins: for group retreats.

• Mission Campground kitchen and meeting room: maximum capacity 80 attendees • Cottages: private getaway • Pavilion and fire pit: for outdoor gatherings.

• Lots of nature and a small lake: for fishing, prayer and rest.

There also are six residential homes at the Land, where the leadership of Christian Outreach Ministries resides.

All residents participate in the caretaking of the grounds and facilities, and serve as ministry to the guests. Besides Mary Louise, Deborah and Wes Durham are longtime residents. Wes presently serves as the CEO, and Deborah, the CFO. “We got to know the Land in 2017,” said Pr Ari Alves of Heal Our Land Ministries. “And, since then, we have stayed there at least two or three times a year. We are grateful to God and the Land on this journey of our incessant search for God. Thank you for this incredible partnership.”

Another guest, from Cedarcrest Church in Acworth, said, “The Land is an oasis, where you can experience the Holy Spirit and have your soul refreshed!”

“God has shown us how important it is for his flock to come away from the world to find times of refreshing together from the Lord,” Deborah said. “Many of our guests have roots in every corner of our world: from the Far East, South America, Central America, Africa and Eastern Europe. We celebrate the multiplicity of ethnic backgrounds of our brethren who choose to follow Christ. All communities of faith are welcome at the Land.”

You can request a tour of the grounds by appointment. For more information, visit www.thelandwoodstock.org.

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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

31

Celebrating Freedom Through

assover

BY RABBI DANIEL DORSCH

T

he origins of Passover are found in the book of Exodus. During the 10th plague, when Moses and God send against Pharaoh the death of the first born, the angel of death “passes over” the Israelite homes that have been marked with lamb’s blood. It’s not exactly a pretty association to have with the name of the holiday.

Perhaps, it is for this reason that many Jews prefer to call the holiday by its Hebrew name: Pesach, which refers to the celebratory Pesach (pascal) sacrifice eaten by families in post-biblical times to commemorate the Exodus each year. Playing on words, Torah commentator Yehudah Leib Alter (1847-1905), known as the Sfas Emes, wrote that the word Pesach may be broken into two words: Peh-sach, meaning “a hungry mouth.”

His point, of course, has to do not only with how Jews arrive hungrily to our Passover dinner, called a Seder, but also with the spiritual nourishment that Jews aspire to gain from the entire Pesach experience. At the Seder, most of the food we eat is embedded with deep symbolic meaning. Matzah is the bread of the Israelites that was prepared in haste as they ran toward their liberation after 400 years of slavery. We dip parsley, representing spring, in salt water, representing the tears that the Israelites shed under the lashes of their Egyptian taskmasters. Similarly, when we recite the 10 plagues, we spill a drop of wine as a tear for each plague, remembering the suffering of ordinary Egyptians that, sadly, was a necessary step on our journey to freedom.

To further help aid in our spiritual nourishment, the Haggadah (the book that we use on Passover) creates an 32

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

order and a framework for telling the story of the Exodus from Egypt. For most Jewish families, the kind of Seder that goes on, and the content that gets used, varies by who is participating. My 93-year-old grandfather runs a traditional Seder, where he reads all 14 lengthy steps of the Haggadah in Hebrew, from start to finish. In our home, with two young children, we use “plague bags,” masks, stickers and all kinds of costumes as tools to tell the story. To encourage children’s participation, we also give them candy and other sweets as an incentive.

Looking for help in making a creative Seder in your home? Today, there are new Haggadahs being published, as different rabbis, artists, authors and Jewish organizations compete for space on the Jewish Seder table. In addition to there being no shortage of free resources and Seder supplements online, an Amazon search lists more than 4,000 possible Haggadahs available for purchase.

With the state of the world over the past two years, there is no doubt in my mind that Jews around the world this year are hungering not only for spiritual nourishment, but also for communal gathering. Like so many Jews who have spent the past two years yearning for freedom, I look forward to celebrating Pesach once again with my family and friends this year.

Rabbi Dan Dorsch serves Congregation Etz Chaim in Marietta. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary, and holds a master’s degree in synagogue education.

Gold Dome Report: 2022 Legislative Session

BY CHARLICE BYRD

With the 2022 Georgia legislative session more than halfway completed, we certainly are in the homestretch. What a year it’s been so far under the Gold Dome. I wanted to review a few key pieces of legislation you may find interesting.

First, the House passed House Bill (HB) 1134, legislation which would allow the state’s attorney general to collaborate with local district attorneys to prosecute certain gang-related crimes across the state. Additionally, HB 1134 would allow the attorney general to employ peace officers for investigative purposes. This bill also would work in tandem with the governor’s plan to create the Gang Prosecution Unit in the attorney general’s office. HB 1134 has been sent to the Senate for consideration.

Members of the General Assembly are seeking to pass what would be the strongest and most comprehensive gun control nullification bills in the country. I have sponsored HB 597, the Georgia Second Amendment Protection Act. The bill makes several declarations, including support for a limited federal government as stipulated in the 10th Amendment, and an elaboration of what policies the federal government and the Georgia state government can and cannot constitutionally enforce. HB 597 seeks to nullify both past and future firearm restrictions, like the 1934 National Firearms Act and the 1968 Gun Control Act.

I am excited to say I have authored and introduced HB 1394.

The bill aims to repeal the Georgia Department of Public Health’s authority to require persons to submit to vaccinations or other measures to prevent contagious or infectious diseases.

The bill states no jab (shots), no passport, no masks for public and private businesses. With your help, we effectively can act to stop the virus and do so in a manner that respects our rights.

In the House, we also passed HB 876, the Truth in Prescription Pricing for Patients Act. This legislation aims to require pharmacy benefits managers to provide more transparency in the cost of drugs. Under this legislation, the pharmacy benefits managers would have to disclose the true net cost of the drug to the pharmacy selling the drug. I have heard from plenty of constituents about the high price of pharmaceuticals, and this bill is an attempt to address this issue.

I support the effort to provide more transparency in medical costs and expect that it ultimately will result in decreased costs to the patient.

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

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

Brass | Strings | June 1-3 Piano | June 6-8 Choral/Vocal | June 6-10 Cobb Summer Band Camp* | June 13-16

THEATRE

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

*Cobb Summer Band Camp is open only to middle school students.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

33

Recycling Day - Canton

Celebrate Earth Day, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

April 23, at Canton’s City Collection Site (2525 Ridge Road). Drop off items that are typically more difficult to recycle, such as electronics, latex and oil-based paint, and tires. Paper shredding also will be available. To participate, you must reside within the city limits of Canton.

For more information, visit cantonga.gov and Facebook (@DowntownCantonGA).

This is a biannual event; watch for details on the fall event.

Recycling Stations

Cherokee County Recycling Center

Celebrating

Earth Day Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the 1970 environmental movement (www. earthday.org). With multiple events recognizing Earth Day in Cherokee County, it’s evident commemorating the global campaign is a priority for our residents.

While recycling this month is especially busy because of Earth Day, there are ongoing opportunities throughout the year. Incorporating reducing, reusing and recycling into our daily routines can help keep trash out of our neighborhoods, rivers, lakes, trails and parks, ultimately protecting the health of our community, and the planet.

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Greenstock Day and Recycling Event - Woodstock Join Woodstock as it continues its journey to go green, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

April 30, at Woodstock Elementary School. The event includes recycling of electronics, cellphones, batteries and more, as well as document shredding. For more details, visit https://bit.ly/3KmJLHK.

Keep Cherokee Beautiful Adopt-A-Mile

Litter poses a threat to our motorists, natural habitats, wildlife and waterways.

The Adopt-A-Mile initiative, sponsored

by Keep Cherokee Beautiful in partnership with Cherokee County, allows citizens to show their pride in our county and safely reduce the amount of unsightly trash along our roads.

The Adopt-A-Mile program directly benefits the community through litter prevention, greater civic involvement and area beautification. To get involved, visit https://bit.ly/3KtFwug.

In January 2021, the Cherokee County Recycling Center served 3,610 vehicles for trash and recyclables. In January 2022, that number jumped to 5,309; however, there was no increase in revenue. On Feb. 10, the Recycling Center began allowing out-of-county residents to utilize recycling services for a $10 fee. The service to county residents remains free. As services opened to non-Cherokee County residents, photo ID proving residency now will be required.

Residents and non-residents still will be limited to a single-vehicle load per day.

Fees for other items, including household appliances, still will apply.

• Hobgood Park

6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock

• Blalock Road Facility

470 Blalock Road, Canton To learn more about the Cherokee Recycling Center, including what type of recyclables are accepted, visit www. cherokeega.com/recycling-center.

More Recycling Centers

• Autumn Hill Nursery (black plastic •

• • •

plant trays and pots), 4265 Earney Road, Woodstock. 770-442-3901.

Federal Recyclers (electronics, metals, paints), 502 Industrial Drive, Woodstock. For a full list of accepted items, visit federalrecyclers.com.

Appointment required for drop-offs; call 770-591−0375.

Northwest Recycling (metals), 2455 Marietta Highway, Canton.

770-213-4573.

Royal Metal Recycling, 190 River Mill Drive, Ball Ground. 770-704-0411.

Woodstock Recycling (metals), 111 Dixie Drive. 678-494-0325.

Earth Day Recycling Event

FREE and

Open to the Public!

Mainframes Networking Equipment Typewriters Telecommunications Monitors* Equipment Televisions** Back Up Batteries Toner Cartridges Power Systems Fax Machines Desktop & Copiers Laptop Computers Printers Cardboard, Plastics, & Metals Scanners Cell Phones!

Accepted items:

Mainframes Networking Equip *$5 fee for all monitors **$25 for all TVs Fees due to the extensive amount Typewriters Telecommunicat of work involved to ensure safe Monitors*recycling. Equipment Televisions** Back Up Batteri Toner Cartridges Power System Fax Machines Desktop & Copiers Laptop Comput Keep your children safe Printers by recycling Cardboard, expired car Plastics, & seats or those no longer Scanners Cell Phones! needed.

Yes! Your used gardening pots and containers can be recycled!

Donate your gently used sneakers, and Greater Cherokee Kiwanis can recycle them!

Accepted items:

***No phonebooks, newspapers, magazines, 3 ring binders, or large binder clips accepted. ***Three box limit Letter/Legal Size

*$5 fee for all monitors **$25 for all TVs Fees due to the extensive amo of work involved to ensure sa recycling.

Be sure to rinse out your aluminum beverage cans!

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

35

Filmed in Cherokee

‘Promised Land’

BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

In 2021, Cherokee County had another record-breaking year of filming. Of 183 film inquiries, 53 projects were filmed in Cherokee, demonstrating the county’s ability to make projects a reality.

When Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) Film Project Manager Molly Mercer answered a call from the Georgia Film Office in early 2021, film location specialist Mary Ann Lamonica was seeking a contact for a mansion in Ball Ground, for a film team that was considering coming to Georgia.

Two months later, the team, which had established a production office in Georgia, was seeking permits for road closures, a base camp location, crew parking, an open field and use of the beautiful home in Ball Ground.

The project was the pilot episode of ABC’s generationspanning drama “Promised Land” — the epic series that follows two Latino families pursuing power in California’s wine country. The house they sought belonged to Ball Ground native Billy Hasty, whose home would stand in as the family’s sprawling estate, overlooking an expansive vineyard.

Years ago, Hasty listed his home on Georgia’s cameraready property database, Reel Scout. “I thought, ‘If my home can help the county bring more film teams here, then, sure, I’m happy to list it,’” Hasty recalled. “And, now, they’ve come. It wasn’t just me who benefitted — a neighbor of mine received compensation that he plans to use toward his child’s education. A lot of people were positively impacted.”

Billy Hasty prepares for his role as a party guest in “Promised Land.”

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Hasty’s Ball Ground home stands in as the show’s sprawling estate.

Though Hasty’s property was the most prominently used location in Cherokee, a driving scene was filmed on Howell Bridge Road, and a flashback scene was shot in a nearby field.

One scene filmed at the Ball Ground estate involved guests gathering poolside for an elegant anniversary party. Hasty, who was asked to be a party guest in the scene, was given a behind-the-scenes look at this dynamic team at work.

“I’ve lived here all my life. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine we would have so many movies filming in our area, let alone in my own home,” he said.

Hosting productions is an opportunity to demonstrate Georgia’s trademark hospitality. One film professional shared her gratitude that officials, both local and statewide, had accommodated their requests, making their filming run more smoothly.

Recalling this conversation, Hasty said, “COED, our commissioners and our leadership have worked together to bring opportunities like this to our community. It says a lot for the commitment they have to building these relationships.”

To host filming at your home or property, visit the cherokeega.org film page, and scroll down to list your property. It could take years or just minutes, but you may have the next property needed for Georgia’s thriving film industry.

To watch the first episodes of “Promised Land,” visit abc.com.

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention and expansion. www.cherokeega.org.

BRING YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! 8 a.m. , April 23 Etowah River Park in Canton

DJ – Adoptions – Trophies – Raffles – Swag Bags

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER FOR THE EVENT

Funds raised support local animal shelters and support the fight against the dog meat trade in Asia.

www.streetdogdash5k.org

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

37

County Parks on a Winning Track

BY HARRY JOHNSTON

It’s an exciting time for Cherokee County Parks. The program recently achieved national accreditation, following a two-year effort to meet requirements for that honor. Even better, the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association just named the Cherokee parks program No. 1 in all large counties in Georgia!

The parks program has grown dramatically since voter approval of a $90 million bond issue in 2010. The facilities now include 67 ball fields, 34 picnic pavilions, 32 tennis and pickleball courts, 17 playgrounds, 41-plus miles of trails, an indoor recreation complex, a world-class mountain bike park and a fabulous aquatics center.

And, it’s still growing. “The Buzz,” a new indoor recreation facility, is under construction at Veterans Park in the Macedonia Community, funded from the last of the park bond proceeds and a mix of other sources. It should open by year’s end. Additionally, the historic Hickory Flat Elementary gym is being renovated as a recreation and community center, and multi-purpose trails are being built along Towne Lake Parkway.

Conceptual designs were completed last year for parks on three properties in southwest Cherokee. Funds are in place for Phase 1 construction on the first one, on Highway 92 at Hunt Road. It’s planned for mostly passive uses, with a playground, open spaces, picnic pavilion and trails.

It will be adjacent to a commercial and restaurant area planned by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development as a way to energize that corner of the county. Another park is planned on Kellogg Creek Road, near Old Alabama Road. Mostly passive, it will include exciting features, such as an elevated tree walk.

Three parks in northeast Cherokee are in the conceptual design process.

One, to be named Cochran Park, is adjacent to the current and future 38

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

LB “The Buzz” Ahrens Recreation Center exterior progression, Feb. 10. Photo courtesy of Cherokee Recreation and Parks.

sites of Free Home Elementary.

It includes a lake that will remain as a scenic and fishing attraction.

Walking trails, open space and a disc golf course are being considered.

A 500-acre parcel on Yellow Creek Road at the Etowah River will be developed with trails, river access and a second major bike park. A smaller tract at the intersection of Long Swamp Creek and the Etowah River, near Ball Ground, once the site of an Indian mound, will include an interpretive center for the Native American era, as well as an access point for the river. A 125-acre site a couple of miles down river is being held for future park development.

A 40-acre site, north of the Hickory Flat business district, is under contract to purchase as a future park. Specific plans are not yet developed. It could include passive and/or active uses, such as ball fields.

Some of the funding for park development will come from the county’s impact fee program, but most will come from SPLOST, if voters extend that program in November. Park operations and maintenance are funded mostly from alcohol taxes and user fees.

Very little property tax revenue is used for parks.

As always, I’m interested in your thoughts on these and other matters.

Email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.

Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners.

He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.

HALL

of

T

he Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame board members are busy preparing for the organization’s May 6 banquet, when members of the 2022 class (the 19th) will be inducted. It’s a long-awaited celebration, since the 2020 and 2021 banquets were canceled, due to the pandemic.

e m Fa

With the most recent inductees, the number of honorees rises to 111; the first athletes were honored in 2003. The members represent male and female athletes, coaches and business owners representing baseball, basketball, football, wrestling and golf, among other sports. Many athletes achieved statewide or national attention and accolades, including Olympic-level competition.

r o f p U Ge ars t e u q n a May B

WYATT Wilkie

• Wyatt Wilkie

TODD ADAMS

Sequoyah High. AAAA state champion wrestler.

Justin Wilkie

• Justin Wilkie

BRETT GRAVITT

2022 Hall of Fame Inductees

Along with the 2022 inductees, class of 2020 members Greg Robinson and Bart Manous will be recognized, as well as the top senior male and female athletes from each Cherokee County high school, and the 2017 Etowah High state championship baseball team.

Sequoyah High. Two-time AAAA state champion wrestler. NAIA All-American at Cumberland College. Region Champion wrestling coach at Creekview High.

• Brett Gravitt

Etowah High. All-County basketball.

First Team GJCA at Middle Georgia College.

Two-year starter and team captain on two Sun Belt Championship teams at the University of South Alabama. Nine-year professional basketball career in Norway, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan and U.S. League MVP.

• Todd Adams

Contributor. Referee, umpire and youth coach for more than 40 years.

LEARN MORE

SPONSORED CONTENT

For the complete history and information about the hall of fame, which is sponsored by Northside Hospital, visit www.ccshof.net.

To purchase banquet tickets, scan QR code or go to https://ccshof.ticketleap.com/ccshof-enshrinement-banquet-2022.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

39

EVERYDAY

Spring is here, along with warmer weather, longer days and nature coming back to life. We are reminded of the innocence and beauty that exists all around us, despite the heaviness of what is happening in the world. We are given new life and new mercies every morning.

Since school began, Everyday Angels has been very busy, behind the scenes, meeting the rising needs for temporary housing. We continue to work closely with school administrators and counselors who identify and help qualify family needs. The “as needed” donations received allow us to do this important work for our community. We could not make a positive difference without your help.

Everyday Angels invites everyone to an Elton Live! tribute concert on April 23 at the Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater in honor and support of Chasity Schug. We featured her story in December 2021 and, now, we are partnering with the local company, TSA, Inc. to raise funds in honor and support of her family. Please go to https://cherishchasityconcert. eventbrite.com for more information or to purchase your tickets. We are excited to see everyone there!

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Readers, this letter is for you:

Dear Everyday Angels: We want to thank you for the help you provided to one of our student’s families during the holidays. The day before we left for Christmas break, it was brought to our attention that one of our student’s family’s utilities had been disconnected for weeks. We learned that due to family illness and sick days without pay, the parents had to choose what bills to pay, and water and power in their home became a luxury. While other kids were excited about Santa, these students just wanted a warm shower.

We quickly rallied together like we do, and collected funds. We remembered the help your organization had provided in past years and made the call. Despite the long list of holiday needs, you put our student on top of your long list, no questions asked, and made sure their utilities were reconnected within days. You also provided grocery cards to present to them.

Last week, the parents came into our school to thank me and asked that I send a small donation to Everyday Angels. While the amount may be small, the gesture is huge. They are humble, they are grateful, and they look forward to better days so they can do for others as you have done for them. It is important you and your donors understand the impact you make within our community.

As an administrator, we are grateful to have a resource available to help during desperate times, and that you trust us to identify these needs.

Jenn

This is why we do what we do, and you allow us this privilege. We thank YOU!

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

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

41

Florida anise bloom. Photo by Mary Tucker.

Native Anise

The (Almost) Perfect Shrub

BY MARY TUCKER

Is anise the perfect shrub? Well, there’s probably no such thing, but it surely comes close, in my opinion. It has all of these characteristics going for it: native to the Southeast, evergreen, deer-resistant, low-maintenance and resistant to diseases and insect pests.

There are two species of anise that are native to the Southeast, Illicium floridanum (Florida anise) and Illicium parviflorum (yellow anise). The two species have somewhat different ranges, but both are found in the lower parts of the Southeast. Fortunately for gardeners, anise is quite happy and cold-hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 7 through 10, making it a suitable landscape plant throughout most of Georgia. I grow both in my Cherokee County garden, but I have heard that yellow anise is slightly more cold-hardy than Florida anise.

In the garden, one of anise’s most useful characteristics is its evergreen nature. In both species, the elliptical, leathery leaves grow 4-6 inches long and have an attractive glossy sheen. The leaves emit a pleasant, spicy, anise-like fragrance if brushed against, but these aromatic compounds are poisonous, which makes the plant resistant to deer browsing and to insect infestation.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Despite their overall similarities, these species have very different blooms. Florida anise bears dramatic, dark-red blooms, about 1-2 inches in diameter. These springtime flowers are star-shaped with many straplike petals, giving them a bit of an otherworldly look.

Some say the flowers have an unpleasant fragrance, but I’ve never detected any malodorous scent. In contrast, the blooms of yellow anise are small, cupshaped flowers that are light yellowish-green and only about a half-inch wide.

The flowers of both species are followed by lightgreen, multi-pointed, star-shaped fruits that develop into brown seed pods that look similar to culinary anise. But be warned – these fruits, like the foliage, are toxic.

Both species of anise grow in an upright, compact, rounded habit and produce multiple stems. They also spread by suckers, and roots will form where the lower branches touch the soil. This makes it easy to propagate them to obtain new plants. They form large shrubs or small trees, usually growing to a height of 8-12 feet with a similar spread.

In their native ranges, anises are most often found in low, damp, understory areas such as wooded ravines and stream sides. Given the natural habitat, anises prefer partial shade and moist soil and will wilt in drought; however, I find that they quickly recover when given water.

In my garden, both of these anises have been very low maintenance. I never have needed to prune either for height, though I understand they are amenable to that practice if you want to keep them shorter. The only issue I’ve had is when one spreads via suckers and starts to overtake nearby plants. Then, I simply and easily pull up the unwanted pieces, potting them up if I want to share with friends.

An anise has many uses in the landscape if you provide it with partial shade and moisture to suit it.

Given its evergreen nature, it’s perfect as a screening plant or hedge. It also makes a lovely specimen shrub at the edge of the woods where the dark-green foliage provides contrast to bare trees in the winter landscape.

Where can you procure this almost-perfect shrub?

Yellow anise will be available at the Cherokee County Master Gardeners’ spring plant sale, 9 a.m.-noon, April 30, at the Cherokee County Senior Center at 1001 Univeter Road in Canton. In addition to selling plants, Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your gardening questions.

Mary Tucker is a North Carolina native who has lived in Cherokee County for more than 25 years.

She is a Lifetime Master Gardener whose special interest is gardening with native plants.

8 Lesser-Known Menopause Symptoms

BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

You’ve probably heard about the classic menopause symptoms — irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain and mood changes, to name a few.

If you’re a woman between the ages of 40 and 65 — in some cases even a bit younger — you may be suffering with some of these symptoms right now. But, did you know that there are other symptoms that aren’t as common, and may cause many women to think something is seriously wrong?

Menopause comes with many changes — some major and some minor. Some women manage to get through the process with only a little discomfort. Others may be slammed with multiple symptoms. Most menopausal changes are caused by the decline of three hormones: estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

The following menopausal symptoms are some of the notso-common symptoms that usually are caused by the same hormonal shifts.

NEVER MISS A BEAT!

1. Forgetfulness, confusion, loss of focus and difficulty concentrating. Decrease of estrogen and progesterone can

provoke cortisol levels to become erratic, resulting in brain fog and slower cognitive skill function.

2. Bloating. During perimenopause and early menopause, flagging hormones can create bloating. This often disappears when levels permanently stabilize.

3. Sleep problems. Dwindling hormones can trigger sleep disturbances, such as interrupted rest, insomnia, waking up too early or sleeping too long.

4. Incontinence or frequent urination. Significant changes to pelvic muscles damaged or weakened during childbirth or waning estrogen can prompt more bathroom visits.

5. Thinning or loss of hair and brittle nails. Increase in androgens (male hormones) spur shrinkage in hair follicles. Bald patches, thinning and peach fuzz may develop, alongSeries with dry, Lantern brittle cracked nails.

6. Digestive problems. Constipation, indigestion and gas can be attributed to cortisol levels affected by hormone reduction.

7. Headaches or migraines. If women experience headaches before and during menstruation, this may continue throughout perimenopause and menopause.

8. Increase in allergies. Ebbing hormones during menopause can accelerate histamine production, introducing new allergies or magnifying old ones.

Given time, many menopausal symptoms can correct themselves. Others can easily be remedied through hormone therapy, diet, exercise or medication. However, hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to several serious conditions in women; unusual symptoms that arise should be assessed by an OB-GYN to rule out other causes.

UNDER THE STARS

PLUS...

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

SUMMER CAMPS!!!

REGISTRATION OPEN

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UPCOMING: Aditya Prakesh Ensemble May 28 | Carnatic Jazz

Stacie Rose Exhibit Opens Apr 17

Visual Arts Classes Orphie & The Book of Heroes

The tradition returns onstage 60+ local artists in the Gallery

Ceramics | Painting | Mixed Media

A New Musical | Jun 8-22

WOODSTOCKARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

43

Crossing the Finish Line Speed for Need and F3 Help Those With Needs Experience 5Ks and More SUBMITTED BY SPEED FOR NEED

Speed for Need is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise awareness and foster inclusion of those with a need through participation in fitness events, such as 5Ks, 10Ks or marathons — experiences that they would not be able to have on their own. Trained drivers push Track Commanders (riders) in customized, fitted racing wheelchairs to help them participate in and complete fitness events. Our impact is measured largely in the number of smiles and amount of laughter coming from the Track Commanders that we push. There is no greater impact than helping others feel included and loved.

Who We Serve

Anyone with a need (child or adult) is eligible to participate as a rider in a Speed for Need event.

Examples of needs include physical or cognitive disability, recovering from a disease, or older adults, such as military veterans in events honoring our military. We coordinate with organizations that serve potential riders, as well as local race directors. We provide teams and specialized racing wheelchairs to push our Track Commanders in races and running events. This all is done at no cost to the riders.

How We Got Started

Will Farr, from Charlotte, North Carolina, had been an avid runner his entire life, but had a hard time sharing his joy of running with his son, Owen, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy (a rare genetic disease that causes the muscles in the body to become weak and damaged over time). Farr met Kevin Young after he joined a free men’s workoutfellowship group called F3 (Fitness, Fellowship and Faith — learn more at F3nation.com). The two men saw an opportunity for Owen and others to experience the joy of participating in a race. With the support of F3, the men collected donations to purchase a racing wheelchair they could use to push riders, like Owen, in local running/racing events.

On July 4, 2017, Owen got to participate in his first race with his dad, and out of the love of a father, Speed for Need was born.

44

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

F3 Cherokee member David Zeh pushes his stepson Nicolas Medina (also an F3 Cherokee member) at the 2021 Next Step Run, Walk or Roll 5K.

Where We Are Now

Since 2017, Speed for Need has grown to nine specialized racing wheelchairs and has run with more than 315 Track Commanders in 95 races, helping raise awareness for more than 40 social causes. After running the Next Step Run, Walk or Roll 5K in October 2021, with the help of F3 Cherokee, Speed for Need officially began expanding into Georgia in January. The positive response has been incredible.

Initial fundraising efforts allowed for the purchase of four racing wheelchairs to use for events in Georgia.

Speed for Need is run completely by volunteers, and donations are used to purchase and maintain the racing chairs for our riders.

How Can You Get Involved?

Email info@speedforneed.org. You can help by becoming a volunteer, or donating at speedforneed.org.

We always are looking to partner with organizations or events where there is a need to help get a Track Commander to the finish line. We recently partnered with the Kennesaw Grand Prix Race Series and are looking for riders to fill our chairs. For the most upto-date information, visit https://kennesawgrandprix. com. For other events, check out our event calendar at https://speedforneed.org/calendar.

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

45

What Are Students Learning Today?

BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

What are students learning today?

The short answer is, “what you learned, but better.”

The Cherokee County School District continues to teach students the same core subjects that you, your parents, your grandparents and many generations before them learned.

Students learn to read and write, and to understand math, science and the world around them. They learn about government and civic responsibilities. They learn about art and music, fitness and nutrition, technology and teamwork.

As they progress to middle and high school, they explore career paths and more life skills. Students not only can choose to take the electives you did — just with new names; for example, home ec is now family and consumer science, and shop is construction — but also can pick from nearly limitless opportunities. These opportunities are made possible by expanding our high school course catalog (www. cherokeek12.net/Content2/courseguide) to encompass college-level courses and numerous career paths, accessing a statewide virtual learning catalog and giving them chances to dual-enroll with universities and technical colleges.

We’re dedicated to preparing graduates for success in college, career and life, which is why we offer such course variety, but the majority of them do pursue fouryear degrees. To meet that need, we offer an ever-widening selection of Advanced Placement courses that prepare students for college’s rigor, and offer the opportunity to earn college credit.

To provide the best education possible, we consistently call upon top teachers to become school administrators, and to join our district Office of Curriculum & Instruction. The experienced educators who make up our curriculum and instruction team 46

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

develop resources, methods and programs to grow children’s criticalthinking skills, mastery of knowledge for college and career success, and lifelong love of learning. While some of our best teachers choose to stay in the classroom, we’re grateful for those who give up that joy to ensure we provide exemplary teaching and learning support.

Transparency in teaching and learning is a hallmark for our school district. The community at large can view what teachers cover in their lessons — by grade level and by subject — by reviewing the standards and curriculum maps posted on our website (www.cherokeek12. net/administration/curriculuminstruction).

Parents have access to even more information through the Canvas

learning management system.

Through Canvas, parents can track their child’s lessons and academic progress. If you see that your child scored low on a reading quiz, you can ask him or her about it, and offer support, and you can email the teacher, if further help is needed. We offer more opportunities than ever for students to catch up and stay on track.

New this school year, teachers publish their plans for the coming week on Canvas by Sunday evening, for parents to review. This not only allows you to preview the week’s lessons, but it also helps you be more involved in your child’s learning. On Sunday, you know when your child’s science test is — even if they didn’t tell you — so you can ensure they study the night before, and you can offer to help them.

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

List Price Address

Home Sales in February Subdivision/Complex

Beds Baths Year Built Close Price Total Days on Market

Inwood 568,760 108 Meadow Mill Road Glenhaven At Ridgewalk 477,791 504 Newstead Way Haleys Mill 380,000 117 Haleys Circle List Price159 Address Subdivision Stone Manor Court Cornerstone Manor 393,000 Springfield Place 360,000 545 Coolsprings Walk Billings Farm Lane PassAcreage 1,567,000 906,675 714 218 Milton Overlook Milton Overlook 1416 Chatley Way Wellington Manor 264,500 299,500 1208 W Wylie Bridge Road Coleman's Bluff 500,000 2042 Woodside Park Drive Bradshaw Farm 500,000 119 Linton Street Downtown Woodstock River Oaks 340,000 504 River Place 245,000 306 304 Nottingham Sherwood Ashgrove Court Drive Woodstock Knoll Forest 515,000 401,000 604 Oxford Circle Waverly Hills Little River Crossing 367,900 201 Chatooga Drive 250,000 3106 113Waterford Creekview Drive Court RiverCreekview Oaks 294,900 Acuba Woodstock 315,000 525 175 LittleCourt Brook Drive Cottages LittleofBrook Estates 389,900 Helene Court The Woodlands 490,000 450,205 507 512 Forest Lane Hickory Bluffs FARMINGTON Farmington Subdivison 365,000 345,000 151 162 Dials Drive Drive Misty Mountain Abbey CircleDrive Cottages Woodstock 365,000 299,900 101 204 Foothill LittleofRiver South Montclair At Ridgewalk 330,000 534 Arden Close 421,000 141 Stone Manor Court Cornerstone Manor Farmington 325,000 107 Bristol Square 354,900 3216 River Rock Place River Oaks 305,000 2305 River Station Terrace River Oaks 450,000 433 173 Abbey Circle Cottages of Woodstock Citronelle Drive Kingsgate 372,000 350,000 1026 Washington Avenue Arnold Mill Estates Pioneer Crossing 300,000 306 Pioneer Circle 295,000 319 220 Deerchase Deerchase Dexter Drive Drive Woodlands 325,000 Annazanes PlacePark Drive Woodlands 453,900 449,000 303 2030 Woodside Bradshaw Farm Sunnybrook LaneWay Sunnybrook 250,000 380,000 118 7003 Woodfield River Oaks Newcastle Walk Trail Newcastle Farm Place 525,000 489,000 151 304 Springwater Springfield Woodstock Knoll 865,000 225 Johnston Farm Lane 290,000 210 Mayflower Drive Little River North Arbor View 4,390,000 133 Highlands Drive 340,000 1311 1508 River Rock Trace river oaks Kensington Lane Farmington Unit III 399,999 525,000 130 Newcastle Walk Newcastle 122 Dials Drive Misty Mountain Farm 299,900 575,000 1000 713Springharbor WoodbridgeWalk Drive Springfield Woodview Place Enclave 399,000 499,900 5041 5068 Hickory Hills Drive RiverBradshaw Farm River Rock Way Oaks 265,000 Parkstone Cornerstone Parkat Ridgewalk 375,000 375,000 432 405 ThaxtonDrive Lane Montclair Coolsprings Springfield Place 475,000 460,000 533 506 PapillionWalk Trace Woodlands 344 Little Pine Lane Longleaf Woodstock 625,000 314,900 329 Pioneer Circle Pioneer Crossing 205 Mountain View Drive Walnut Creek 449,900 369,900 506 Acuba Court None River Oaks 285,000 1810 River Rock Trail 389,000 216 114 Thornwood Drive Briarwood Walnut Ridge Road Oakhaven 476,200 899,000 4810 496Augustus Mill Creek Road None Court Southlands 335,000 407,200 318 1206 Hickory None Dexter DriveCreek CourtWoodlands 379,900 422,900 4012 1060 Inca Lane Mill Creek Hickory Fairway Drive Bradshaw Farm Crossing 819,000 Timberleaf Road Oakhaven 530,000 669,000 439 805 Debbie Lane N/A Bramble Court Bramble Oaks Crossing 435,900 315,000 405 103 Toonigh Court Toonigh Forest Lane Hickory 401,350 370,000 515 1005 Inca Lane MillBluffs Creek Crossing Clifford Court Mill Creek Overlook 399,900 305,000 105 400 Bramble Court Bramble Oak Driftwood Forest 250,000 403 Doris Drive 415,000 302 Summer Court Driftwood Forest Brentwood 388,300 110 Brentwood Lane 387,000 629 Dahoma Trail Park at Kingsgate Westbridge 375,000 302 Highland Court 385,000 255 Valley Brook Drive Valley Brook 121 Weatherstone Drive Weatherstone 373,900 570,000 201 303 Canter Way Newcastle Farm Paddington Place Waverly Hills 385,000 Riverside 390,000 179 205 ColonyLane Center Drive Woodview West Court Ridge 450,000 Towey Trail Woodland 425,000 480,000 115 2040 Woodside Park Drive Bradshaw Farms Parkside Cardinal Woods 337,000 514 Finch Court Montclair/Ridgewalk 386,000 309 Winthrope Drive Weatherstone 357,000 337 Weatherstone Place Springs 330,000 893 Columbia Court Riverchase 319,900 411 River Point Drive

4 2 4 3 4 7 3 5 3 5 3 3 2 4 4 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 4 3 5 6 4 3 3 5 3 3 4 4 5 3 5 3 2 5 4 5 2 5 3 4 3 4 4 3 4 3 2 3 3 3

3 2 2 Beds 2 2 5 5 2 3 3 3 2 3 3 4 3 3 2 2 3 4 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 3 3 5 4 2 3 2 4 2 5 3 3 2 2 2 3 4 3 4 3 2 2 5 4 3 2 3 2 4 4 3 5 3 3 2 4 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 4 3 3 3 2 4 2 2 2 2 2

2021 2021 2009 Baths 2015 1993 20024 1990 2 1998 2 1985 20111 19802 19902 20132 20043 19802 20041 2005 2 1981 19882 20002 19792 20042 20052 19802 20063 2016 2 1999 19822 19793 19943 19932 20132 19922 20192 2001 2 1985 3 2017 19912 20032 20013 20193 19812 20212 2002 3 1978 2 1994 19962 19972 19922 20152 20032 1974 2005 1997 1992 1984

599,405 477,791 405,000 Year Built 410,400 355,000 1,500,000 2021 276,500 1990 475,000 1985 325,000 1974 540,000 1996 340,100 1976 314,000 390,000 1982 468,100 2021 338,000 1981 365,000 1975 355,000 2015 365,000 1989 326,000 2013 367,000 1974 330,000 1984 340,000 400,000 1999 265,000 1993 535,500 1990 855,000 1971 465,000 1986 290,000 2006 320,000 2017 414,000 1997 288,000 405,000 2004 430,000 2005 630,000 1988 465,000 2010 305,000 1995 476,200 2017 369,500 1986 360,000 1999 800,000 480,000 2005 428,000 1985 406,350 2000 430,000 1980 275,000 1978 378,000 2001 394,000 1994 370,000 2005 410,000 450,000 1996 415,000 1998 315,000 372,000 370,000 312,500 335,500

Close Price 928,720 261,000 475,000 250,000 379,000 282,000 315,000 463,705 390,000 325,000 410,000 355,000 450,000 380,000 352,000 450,000 384,500 516,000 245,000 350,000 550,000 600,500 531,000 367,000 490,000 305,000 369,900 395,000 890,000 390,000 412,900 730,000 329,000 410,000 270,000 415,000 368,000 356,000 569,000 368,000 485,000

24 10 4 Days on 3 Market 22 139 18 6 96 42 72 7 7 7 120 104 4 6 13 12 14 50 25 3 17 4 4 88 2 2 4 1 13 6 5 2 2 81 1 4 2 4 3 2 26 2 2 95 7 3 5 4 3 4 5 7 83 4 2 87 4 0 3 5 25 20 4 22 7 17 4 39 5 8 3 57 5 3 2 5 0 19 92 4 104 15 96 3 5 44 67 11 59 37 12 34 7

DATA COMPILED BY

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

47

Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services.

This dog’s name is Franklin. He is still at the shelter from when I wrote about him two months ago. He is a 3-year-old, medium-sized brown and white Feist. He is really energetic, in a good way, and would be a good running companion with some leash training. He also would be a good family dog who would love his family.

Rob with Kiana Leveritte of Georgia Audubon.

This month, I interviewed Kiana Leveritte, the community engagement coordinator for Georgia Audubon, about the Urban Ecologists program.

Can you tell us about Atlanta Urban Ecologists (AUE)?

AUE was created for eighth to 12th grade students to expose them to environmental concepts that affect the world, and to inspire them to become ecologists. We partner with groups around Atlanta and have a monthly outing. We try to make every meetup different. They are 3-hour sessions that incorporate things like visiting the zoo or planting trees.

What is your favorite thing to teach kids?

Water usage. The students meet with Fulton County Public Works, and they learn just how much water we use, as opposed to the minimum we need to survive, and how we can save water. Then, we go to the water reclamation plant and learn what happens behind the scenes there.

What are your most popular activities kids like to do?

This cat’s name is Ari. She is 2 years old. She is an orange and white medium-sized cat who was a stray, because people would not want to give this cat up. She is very affectionate and would be a great pet for everyone.

They really like planting trees, birding and working with other animal groups, such as the Amphibian Society. They love hands-on activities.

Who came up with AUE?

AUE was created by Melanie Furr, director of education, for students to learn about ecology and to bring people from all walks of life together to learn about science in a way they can understand.

What do you want kids to think about when it comes to wildlife and ecology?

Have an open mind. So many aspects of science and ecology all work together. This connectivity is what I want people to appreciate.

Where could people go to learn more about this program?

Visit the Georgia Audubon website (www.georgiaaudubon.org) and Facebook page (@georgiaaudubon), and look for Atlanta Urban Ecologists.

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

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

Ask the Audiologist

Are Q-tips Harmful to Your Ears?

Dear Dr. Mary,

I gradually have been losing my hearing over the past few months, and I am very concerned that I cannot hear well anymore. My ears feel like they are full of cotton. I use Q-tips regularly and usually earwax comes out on the Q-tip. I also tried using an at-home earwax removal kit I purchased at the pharmacy; however, it hurt my ears and seemed to make everything worse. I’m not sure what to do at this point and would be open to any advice to get my ears back to normal.

Sincerely, Clogged Caleb, Woodstock

Directed by Becca Hogue

Dear Clogged Caleb,

You came to the right place for answers! This is something, as audiologists, we see daily. Earwax is a natural byproduct of the body, and it is a good thing. Earwax moisturizes your ear canals, keeps out particles and bugs and maintains the pH balance in your ear.

However, sometimes earwax can cause problems. One common problem related to earwax involves Q-tips. When you use Q-tips, the bulk of the earwax is pushed further into your ear than normal. This is detrimental to the natural processes of the ear and can cause an accumulation of earwax that ends up blocking your hearing. A blockage in the ear caused by earwax can give you a feeling of being off-balance, difficulty hearing, pain or may even cause an ear infection. If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you contact your hearing healthcare professional immediately for removal.

Yours Truly, Dr. Mary Swantek

Dr. Mary Swantek joined North Georgia Audiology in 2019. She earned her doctorate degree from the University of Florida and her bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University.

April 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, May 1 2022 SHOWS/SHOW DATES (TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

W W W. C H E R O K E E T H E A T R E . O R G

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR TICKETS & MORE INFO ON OUR

2021-2022 season!!

FOLLOW US CTC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, your donations are tax deductible.

ALL REGULAR SHOWS

Friday/Saturday - 8pm • Sunday - 2:30pm

Adults – $18 | Member Discount – $15 Groups 10 or more - $13 | Senior/Student/Active Military – $15 P l ay i n g at Canton Theatre • 171 E. Main St., Canton, GA

Box Office 770-591-0282 | info@cherokeetheatre.org Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

49

Celebrating

Community Connects Throu

BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

In late February, Woodstock Arts held a fundraising gala and took a broader look at the organization’s impact on the community. One of the main highlights was how Woodstock Arts differs from comparable organizations in similarly sized communities.

If you look at other small towns and suburban communities, the reality is you’d be hard pressed to find a multidisciplinary arts center similar to Woodstock Arts. Woodstock Arts is proud to offer a full concert series, main stage theater productions, theater for young audiences, a visual arts gallery, education programs with summer camps and classes, sensory-friendly programming and more.

During the pandemic, unfortunately, many other arts centers closed, and some might never open again, but Woodstock Arts has maintained access to the arts, everywhere you look.

This is important to note, because it not only enables the organization to do more, but it also is something of which the community should 50

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

What’s Happening at Your Library?

PHOTOS BY REBECCA BLACKWELL

BY JOHN RODGERS

the Arts

ugh a Variety of Programs be incredibly proud. Not as a trophy because this community has it, but because this community created a truly special place that other small towns do not have.

This is done through the vision that “an inspired community can do more.” We believe that, and hope you do, too. It is how we choose our programming, how we choose to operate, how we choose to interact with our community, and how we help foster connection, empathy and more between community members. Our hope isn’t just to have the arts and appreciate them — it is that we do something with it, that we do more with it.

We hope to be a cultural and economic driver, leaning into this community, so that its members can lean into one another.

Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Woodstock Arts.

It’s the event readers have been waiting for all year long: National Library Week (April 3-9)! This year’s theme, Connect With Your Library, highlights the need for communities to connect “with ideas and opportunities to explore, learn and create,” which is our mission at the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

During National Library Week, the SRLS libraries are hosting meet and greet events, open to the public, with no registration required and, as always, no fee to attend.

Dates and times for each meet and greet can be found at calendarwiz.com/sequoyahreglib.

All ages are invited to drop in, visit their local library, meet and interact with library staff, and learn about the experiences, programming and services offered. For example, did you know that Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots can be checked out from the library? How about musical instruments? Sewing machines? Free passes to state parks and other local attractions? Now’s the chance to connect with your library, and discover how a library card can be a money saver.

Speaking of saving money, have you been putting off visiting your library because of fees? In honor of National Library Week, our libraries are offering a fine forgiveness program. During National Library Week, visit any SRLS location to be forgiven a certain amount in overdue fines per library card. To participate, visit or contact your local library from April 3-9, tell a staff member that you wish to take advantage of fine forgiveness, and they’ll waive select fees from your account! Some fees may be excluded, but make sure to ask a library staff member, just in case. If you prefer, you can ask “for a friend.” We promise we won’t judge.

Lastly, our libraries have launched a new service called Ask Us! Sessions, which allow visitors to receive one-onone help by reserving time (up to 30 minutes per session) with a library staff member in person, by phone or virtually.

Sessions can be reserved by calling your library or visiting sequoyahregionallibrary.org and clicking on Contact Us. Staff can help you learn to use library technology, access e-Library services, learn basic computer skills and more.

Normally, librarians help people find books, but this is your chance to “book” a librarian! You could say we’re taking this whole Connect With Your Library thing pretty seriously.

Happy National Library Week, everyone!

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

51

Around & About APRIL

2 Tour

Christian artist Matthew West’s Brand New is coming to First Baptist Church Woodstock, 7 p.m. Special guests Jordan Feliz and Hannah Kerr also will make an appearance. Doors open at 6 p.m. www.brandnewtour.com.

Registration is open for Blankets Creek Trail Run, 5-mile and 9-mile races, and Blankets Creek Dirty 15/30 Mountain Bike Race. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit SORBA Woodstock. https://mountaingoatadventures.com.

9 Northside Hospital Easter Eggstravaganza,

1-3 p.m., features a petting zoo, carnival games, egg hunts and free refreshments at Etowah River Park in Canton. Guests are encouraged to bring donations of diapers and baby wipes for MUST Ministries in Cherokee.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled. https://give.northside.com/easter-eggstravaganza.

14

17 Easter Sunday services,

with Holy Communion, begin at 8:30 and 10:45 a.m., at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Woodstock. The 8:30 a.m. service will be livestreamed on Facebook (@GSLCWoodstock) and will be available the following day on https://gslutheran.org.

19 Lecture: The Garden Cemetery Movement,

7 p.m., with Marcy Breffle, Historic Oakland Cemetery education manager, is coming to the Rock Barn in Canton. This event is free and open to the public. https://historycherokee.org.

22

The Cherokee County Farm Bureau Agriculture Expo, 4-7 p.m., features 30 agriculture booths, tractor and gardening classes, a children’s area, food and drinks, door prizes and more at Cagles Farm in Holly Springs. For more information, email sfpahl@gfbco.org.

23 A Night to Celebrate Chastity Schug Concert

is coming to the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater in downtown Woodstock. Enjoy music by Elton Live!, an Elton John cover band. Proceeds to benefit the Schug family. https://cherishchasityconcert.eventbrite.com.

A skin cancer screening event will be held at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute Radiation Oncology — Cherokee in Canton. https://bit.ly/3FlClBI. To schedule an appointment, call 404-531-4444.

The Street Dog Dash 5K begins at 8 a.m. in Etowah River Park

The Woodstock Farm Fresh Market is open Saturdays through Dec. 17, 8:30 a.m.-noon.

The market is located downtown, on Market Street and in Reformation Brewery’s backyard. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.

30 Benefit for the Children

16

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Blood Drive, 8 a.m.-1 p.m, at 1208 Rose Creek Drive in Woodstock.

Register to donate at redcrossblood.org.

New Victoria Baptist Church Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m, at 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock (across from Hobgood Park). This free community event features egg hunts for infants through fifth-graders, as well as games, a cake walk, inflatables, balloons, popcorn, sno-cones and more. For more details, call 770-926-8448, or check Facebook: @newvicbaptist.

Little River United Methodist Church Community Hunt begins at 10 a.m. Children will be divided into three age groups — 3 and younger, 4-7 and 8-12 — to hunt for more than 10,000 eggs. Free cupcakes and punch for refreshments. 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock.

Join the Bascomb United Methodist Church Easter egg hunt, for infants through children in fifth grade, 11 a.m.-noon. Activities include games, crafts and pictures with the Easter Bunny. For more details, contact Jaime McLemore at kidsinpraise@bascombumc.org, or visit www.bascombumc.org.

52

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

in Canton. Bring your dog, and put your paws to the pavement for a great cause. Proceeds from the race go to the Humane Society International and Soi Dog Foundation, with a percentage of the profits benefiting local shelters. www.streetdogdash5k.org.

Service League of Cherokee County’s inaugural Gala and , featuring a live band, silent auction, raffle, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a bar, will be at 6 p.m. at Timbers on Etowah in Canton. Nominations are open until March 31 for the Heritage of Hope Award. www.serviceleague.net.

The Walking on Sunshine 5K Run/Walk for children with cancer begins at 8 a.m. at Etowah River Park in Canton. All proceeds go to the Sunshine Kids organization. To register, visit https://runsignup.com/race/ga/canton/walkingonsunshine.

The Etowah High School Class of 1982 40-Year Reunion is set for 7 p.m. at the Eagle Watch Golf Club. Tickets are $50 per person, and food is included. Email Kevin Wilson at moosegolfclassic@gmail.com by April 2 to reserve tickets.

MAY

2 Conversation With the Candidates

The Cobb County Republican Women’s Club is hosting , 6:30-9 p.m. at The Marietta Strand Theatre. For more information, including the invited candidates, visit https://ccrwc.org/sponsor-the-convo.

7

The 19th annual Kentucky Derby Day is a benefit for History Cherokee. Enjoy gourmet food, specialty cocktails, a bourbon tasting, a silent auction and a hat parade and contest. https://historycherokee.org. To learn more about sponsor opportunities, email ahenson@historycherokee.org.

CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS AGENCY

CHEROKEE MASTER GARDENERS PLANT SALES

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

Stop by the Cherokee County Senior Center, 9 a.m.-noon, for a variety of plants, shrubs, trees, garden accessories, expert advice and more. https://cherokeemastergardeners.com. On Facebook.

April 2

Cherokee Parks and Recreation’s Flashlight Egg Hunt event begins at 6 p.m., and the egg hunt starts at 8:30 p.m., at Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton. Meet the Easter Bunny, explore the kid zone, make and take crafts, and more. Cost is $10 per child. www.playcherokee.org.

April 6

Unwind Wednesday is back, 5:30-8 p.m., the first

Wednesday of every month through October, at Cherokee Veterans Park. Featuring a variety of food trucks, live music and more, the event will be fun for the whole family.

April 16

The Eggs-traordinary Extravaganza will be at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center in Canton. Children ages 3 and younger can join an egg hunt on the lawn, 2-2:30 p.m.

Children ages 4-12 can join the underwater egg hunt; the first time slot is 2:30-2:45 p.m. Don’t forget your camera, to take photos with the Easter Bunny. For times and registration, visit www.playcherokee.org/9/special-events. For more information, email jnacenzo@cherokeega.com.

CHEROKEE THEATER COMPANY www.cherokeetheatre.org

April 22-24, 29-30, May 1

“Faith County” by Mark Landon Smith. Directed by Becca

Hogue. Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays at the Canton Theatre.

June 10-12 and 17-19

“In the Rest Room at Rosenblooms” by Ludmilla Bollow.

Performances will be at the Canton Theatre.

WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS Join Northside Hospital experts for a virtual health presentation every Wednesday at noon. www.northside.com/community-wellness/classes-events

April 6: Dr. Daniel McMahon, Northside Primary Care Associates

April 13: Janistres Teemer, Northside Hospital April 20: Dr. Steven Spitz, Southeastern Neurosurgical Specialists

April 27: Dr. Matthew Simmons, Northside Hospital Orthopedic Institute Sports Medicine

April 30: Spring Sale June 18: Summer Sale Sept. 17: Fall Sale CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT www.cherokeek12.net/News/ccsdtheatre2122 Contact the school front office for information.

Performances are at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

April 21-23 "Big Fish"

Cherokee High School.

There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on April 23.

Tickets are $10.

"High School Musical"

Woodstock High School.

There also is a 2 p.m. matinee on April 23.

Ticket price to be determined.

April 22-23

"Sister Act, Jr."

Dean Rusk Middle School.

There also is a 1 p.m. matinee on April 23.

Tickets are $5.

April 22-23, 25-27 "The Butler Did It"

River Ridge High School.

There also is a 3 p.m. matinee on April 23.

Tickets are $10.

May 6-7

"Puffs: Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic" Etowah High School.

General admission tickets are $10. Tickets are $7 for thespians and drama club members, senior citizens and children, ages 12 and younger.

June 2-4

"Shrek the Musical"

Academy Street Theatre Group performs at Cherokee High School.

Tickets are $5.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

53

Advertisers

This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the Around Woodstock magazine!

April 2022

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

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Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

CREDIT UNIONS LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org

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DENTAL/ORTHODONTICS

ANIMALS/PETS Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

37

Express Vets 678-397-7377 www.expressvets.com

41

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

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ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org The SpongeBob Musical www.ticketing.kennesaw.edu Woodstock Arts 678-494-4251 www.woodstockarts.org

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7 43

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St. Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org

33 25

Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame Banquet www.ccshof.net Every Link Matters Charity Golf Tournament www.birdease.com/everylinkmatters 404-863-2121 Street Dog Dash 5k www.streetdogdash5k.org

Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

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élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com

Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com

9 7, 19

Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com Dr. Fahrenheit HVAC 770-926-6773 www.drfahrenheithvac.com

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Flybuilt, LLC 404-697-6171 www.flybuiltllc.com

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Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1 (675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com

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RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

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INSURANCE 39

45

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

3

MOVERS Page Relocation 770-224-8184 www.pagerelo.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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Red Baryl Portraits 815-540-0936

55

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Piedmont Urgent Care www.piedmonturgentcare.org

HAIR SALON/BARBER SHOP

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

Kennesaw State University College of the Arts www.arts.kennesaw.edu

11

FUNERAL SERVICES

AUTOMOTIVE Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

EDUCATION/TRAINING/LESSONS

EVENTS

AUDIOLOGY North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

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

HOME AND GARDEN

27

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Chris Coulter, Southeast Mortgage Back Cover 404-735-3111

AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM For advertising rates and information | Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com 54

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

5

Kris McKeeth, Keller Williams The Premier Group 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com

Back Cover

Lindsey Haas Real Estate Team Atlanta Communities Front Cover, 28-29 678-933-1962 www.thehaasteam.net RESTAURANTS/ SPECIALTY FOOD 7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant 19 www.7tequilasmexicanrestaurant.com Canton: 770-479-0847 Cumming: 678-455-5965 Johns Creek: 770-558-1156 Woodstock: 678-217-7770 Susto's Taco Bar Restaurant: 678-400-8131 Catering: 678-400-8160 www.sustostacobar.com

5

RETAILERS

SENIOR LIVING

Art Jewelers 770-924-3133 www.artjewelers.com

3

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

5

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

1

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

31

Home Town Honey, Inc. 7770-428-4903 www.atlantashometownhoney.com

17

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

11

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

Inside Cover

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

41

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

45

TRANSPORTATION Royal Treatment Transport 470-810-3353 www.royaltreatmenttransportllc.com

23

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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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55

T H A N KS

for participating in the nomination round!

READERS’

CHOICE 2022

STAY TUNED for May 1, when the final voting round begins!

If you've made it to the voting round (top 5 nominees) for your category, watch for an email from michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com with helpful hints for winning the voting round.

5 TITLES STRONG TO C I R C TA L ULA TION

Serving the Community Since 1996 FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:

Jennifer Coleman | 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com 56

AROUND WOODSTOCK | April 2022

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