6-23 Around Kennesaw webfinal.pdf

On the Cover Page Relocation

With a growing fleet of 12 trucks, up from two trucks three years ago, and a staff of 35 employees (started with three), the owner of this local moving company is doing everything in his power to make each customer’s move the “simplest move ever.”

28 & 29

Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits

Advertise With Us

Our business is your business. We succeed when you succeed. And our goal is to help community businesses thrive. Our marketing experts have experience on the national and international level. They’ll help you put together an advertising program that targets your market, and fits your needs, style and budget. Let us put our experience to work for you!

Why choose us?

• Publishing hyperlocal community magazines since 1996.

• Won Excellence in Customer Service and Small Business of the Year awards from the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce.

• Marketing experts with national, international account experience.

• Editorial team with 50-plus years’ experience with major metropolitan newspapers.

Get Started Today!

Readers’ Choice 2023!

Voting continues through June 30 at www.aroundkennesawmagazine.com.

What’s Up

The city of Kennesaw will be resurfacing several streets this month. The tentative schedule is:

• Through June 16, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily: Baker Road (from Jiles Road to Hickory Grove Road), Jiles Road (from Cherokee Street to Moon Station Road) and Cherokee Street (from Jiles Road to McCollum Parkway).

• June 16-26, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily: Kennesaw Due West (from Cobb Parkway to city limits).

Kudos!

Kennesaw Acworth 911 recognized the Kennesaw Police Department during National Police Week last month by presenting officers with a piece of artwork commissioned for the occasion.

Ribbon Cuttings

Get Social With Us

Letter From the Editor

If there’s one thing that can be shared by people around the globe, it’s music. Indigenous tribes beat drums. Renaissance musicians used lutes and harpsichords. First-graders play plastic recorders. And rockers blow the roof off with electric guitars.

Since music is universal, it’s only fitting that we recognize World Music Day on June 21. We asked local leaders to share songs on their playlists, as well as memories of concerts and the music that’s created the soundtrack of their lives (Pages 20-21).

In the spirit of sharing, Executive Editor Candi Hannigan challenged me to reveal my playlists, however embarrassing they might be. I don’t have any, but I will share songs I’ve downloaded, as well as the music I loved while I was growing up.

The first concert I attended was Elvis at the Omni. I was 10, and we were about five rows from the top, but I swear, that singing speck looked right at me. Cheap opera glasses don’t lie.

I loved Elvis, but he wasn’t my musical passion. Neither was my favorite heartthrob, Donny Osmond (to this day, I love that man!). My heart belonged to — wait for it — KISS! Yep, the fire-breathing, makeup-clad glam rock group known as the hottest band in the world. My eighth-grade boyfriend introduced me to them, and I was hooked! My bedroom was

wallpapered with their posters. I bought every album they released. I was a cardcarrying member of the KISS Army.

My dream came true when I turned 16 — my first KISS concert. I haven’t experienced anything like it before or since (except their other concerts — their first tour without makeup and their reunion tour). You don’t know what a concert should be like until you’ve seen theirs.

Now, for my “embarrassing” list of songs. I prefer to call my tastes eclectic, a fancy word for “all over the place.” My likes range from Disney soundtracks (“High School Musical,” “Austin and Ally”) to heavy metal (Ozzy Osbourne, Gun N’ Roses, Motley Crue). My favorite is classic rock, like Journey, Bon Jovi and Van Halen. I also have contemporary Christian (Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin), pop (R5, Madonna, Michael Jackson) and country (Faith Hill, Luke Bryan, Reba). There’s a smattering of oldies (Tom Jones), R&B, boy bands (Backstreet Boys) and disco (Bee Gees).

There you have it. Please don’t judge me.

We’re also celebrating Women Veterans Day June 12 with an article (Pages 32-33) on a local female veteran who served our country. If you’re looking for summer fun, check out the activities highlighted on Pages 14-15 and girls’ night out ideas on Pages 10-12. Happy reading!

America’s Community Magazine

Volume 2, Issue 10

PUBLISHER

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Jennifer Coleman | 470-263-8414 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

CONTROLLER

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Savannah Winn savannah@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

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. publishes five hyperlocal magazines serving the communities of Canton, Woodstock, Towne Lake, Acworth and Kennesaw. Approximately 16,000 free copies are distributed monthly in each community, through direct bulk mail and first class mail; approximately 500 copies are available in magazine racks placed around each community.

Around Kennesaw welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Kennesaw, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims to the validity

of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses.

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 2023.

Donna Harris is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She’s a Cobb County native and a veteran journalist with newspaper and magazine experience. Email her at donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Donna Harris

Together We Stand

BY BILL WESTENBERGER

One thing we’ve continued to learn in a profound way since 2020 is that people are meant to do life together. Unavoidable social distancing, telecommuting choices and polarizing opinions undoubtedly have hurt our relations with one another and contributed to mental health and emotional challenges. We have to find a way to focus, now more than ever, on our in-person interactions with each other.

Now, being a police chief does not make me a psychological expert, but working in law enforcement for nearly 32 years has provided a great deal of exposure to pain and suffering that I see in people’s lives on a daily basis. We are seeing these tragedies too often, and we desperately need relief.

A polarizing time in our country now provides us an opportunity to find ways to connect and work together. On June 19, 1865 — 2½ years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued — 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, and freed more than 250,000 slaves in that state by executive decree. This day came to be known as Juneteenth and has been celebrated since. The nationally recognized holiday marks a significant milestone in history, as it recognizes words written 89

years earlier in the Declaration of Independence: “… that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

In past articles, I have referenced how we should take advantage of the opportunities to share time together at community gatherings. It is good for all of us and helps to build community. In 2021, the Kennesaw Police Department, along with my advisory board, hosted the first One Community: A Juneteenth Celebration of Unity in Kennesaw. This year, we

will host the third annual event on June 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at SwiftCantrell Park. We want you to come be a part of the fun as we endeavor to build unity. The celebration will begin with a short Unity Walk through the park at 11 a.m., followed by delicious food, games and good times together. Please join us!

Until next time, stay safe.

Bill Westenberger has served as chief since 2008. He was given the 2019 Kennesaw Citizen of the Year Award.

Last year’s Juneteenth celebration included a huge tug-of-war match.

Maintenance Tips for Boosting Resale Value

BY JOANNIE BATES

Thinking about putting your home on the market and wondering what you can do to sell it quickly? As a homeowner, you want to keep your home in great condition — for your enjoyment and for when it comes time to sell. Summer is a good time to tackle essential maintenance tasks that can keep your home in top shape, as well as boost resale value.

Here are some tips on making your home more appealing to potential buyers. Remember to put together a binder documenting all the improvements you have made in the home. Tracking projects, records and expenses will be helpful, if and when you decide to sell it.

Inspect and clean your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and other issues, which can be costly to repair. By keeping gutters clean and in good condition, you’re protecting your home and boosting its curb appeal. Potential buyers will appreciate a well-maintained home, and clean gutters are a sign that the homeowners take pride in their property.

Check your air conditioning system. A well-maintained air conditioning system is essential for a comfortable living environment during Georgia’s hot and humid summer months. Buyers looking for a new home will appreciate one with a functioning system that can keep them cool and comfortable. Plus, a well-maintained system can help save on energy costs, an attractive feature for potential buyers.

Maintain your landscaping. Well-maintained landscaping can add significant value to your home’s resale value. A beautiful lawn, healthy plants and well-trimmed shrubs and trees create a positive first impression for potential buyers. Good landscaping can increase a home’s value by up to 12%, making it an essential aspect of summer home maintenance.

Prepare your home’s exterior. Curb appeal is crucial for attracting potential buyers, and the exterior of your home is the first thing they will see. Maintaining your roof, windows and doors, as well as pressure washing the exterior, can improve your home’s appearance and appeal. Small repairs and touch-ups can make a significant difference in the resale value.

Keep your home cool and comfortable. A home that’s cool and comfortable is more attractive to potential buyers. Keeping the temperature under control and reducing humidity can make it more appealing. Homebuyers are looking for energy-efficient homes that can save them money, so installing a programmable thermostat or other energy-saving features can be a significant selling point.

Celebrations!

June 21

Happy seventh birthday! I hope you have the best year ever! XOXO Love, Mommy

Jude

June 4 Happy 10th birthday! We love you! From all your family

Kate

Happy seventh birthday, Kate! We love you so much and can’t wait to celebrate you!

Love, Mommy, Daddy, Sissy and Lucy

Nathan June 8

Happy 21st birthday to a wonderful son and brother. We love you so much and are so proud of you!

Mom, Dad and Shayla

Ronnie June 28

Happy birthday to our rocket scientist! Hope you have the best one you’ve ever had! We love and miss you! Love, your family

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

Gallant

Nora River Burkett

JUST WANT Have Fun! TO Girls

20 Local Options for a Memorable Girls’ Night

BY JESSICA FORRESTER

Although each group of friends’ interests vary, girls’ night out (GNO) often involves dinner and drinks, dancing, movies, spa treatments, creative activities and music — I bet reading the title of this article was enough to get Cyndi Lauper’s 1983 song stuck in your head! Whether you’re planning an event with friends, family or co-workers, GNO is about having fun, relaxing and enjoying one another’s company. If you’re more interested in decompressing at home or going out before the sun sets, don’t worry! Our wonderful advertisers have got you covered. Here are 20 local organizations to help you plan a night out or in, or even an afternoon out.

Dinner, Drinks or a Show

• MadLife Stage & Studios’ downtown Woodstock restaurant offers a selection of small plates, salads, sandwiches, steaks and seafood. Grab a bite to eat and catch one of the many shows this month, including Country Dance Night on June 6, Comedy for Women on June 8 and Mary Kate Farmer on June 28. For more shows, visit madlifestageandstudios.com.

• If you’re in the mood for sushi, hibachi or beautiful cocktails, make Wasabi in Acworth your first stop of the night. The restaurant boasts a full bar, with daily happy hours 3-6 p.m. View the menu at wasabisushiacworth.kwickmenu.com.

• Music and wine will be flowing June 30 at Woodstock Arts’ Jazz Night, 6-9 p.m. Sit under the stars, and enjoy live music on the back porch at the Reeves House, located downtown along the Noonday Creek Trail. Charcuterie boards and drinks will be available at the outdoor bar, and coffee service and light bites will be available inside at the gallery bar. For more opportunities to get out and take in the arts, visit woodstockarts.org/ events.

• Your group won’t want to miss Cherokee Theatre Company’s production of “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” at the Canton Theatre, June 16-18, 23-25. The comedy, directed by Nancy Jensen, follows an actress writing her autobiography. She invents a mad, homicidal sister, who is kept locked in an upstairs room and occasionally escapes long enough to scare off uninvited visitors. For performance times, visit cherokeetheatre.org.

Jazz Night attendees can enjoy live music and an outdoor bar.

Afternoon

Pampering

If you’re looking for a relaxing girls’ outing, check with your gals, and call some of these beauty providers to see if you can schedule smallgroup facials or a few back-to-back appointments.

• Lissthetics Clinical Skincare in Woodstock specializes in a variety of treatments, including mini, deluxe and custom facials, as well as back treatments. Call 309-750-0997 to schedule an appointment. Visit lissthetics-skincare.com to learn more about the private-label skin care line used during treatments.

• Governors MedSpa and Concierge Medicine provides aesthetic services, including facials — DiamondGlow, AquaGold and oxygen — microneedling, dermaplaning, peels and more. The Kennesaw-based practice carries SkinMedica and Intraceuticals products to assist in hydrating and stimulating collagen. Visit governorsmedicine.com for a full list of products and services or to book an appointment.

• Jéa Salon + Spa, with locations in Kennesaw and Woodstock, offers facials, including rejuvenation, instant face-lift treatments, microdermabrasion, deep-cleansing back facials and more. And on July 8, gather your friends and celebrate the Woodstock location’s one-year anniversary, with vendors, food and drinks, music and giveaways. For more details, visit jeasalonandspa.com.

• The Beauty Barn, based in Canton, has a growing repertoire of aesthetic treatments — microneedling collagen induction therapy, DiamondGlow exfoliation, chemical peels, fillers and more. The med spa also offers SkinMedica products, available to be shipped to your home or picked up from The Beauty Barn. Learn more at cantonbeautybarn.com.

Planning Help

• The Workshop , a space for the community to shop, create and attend workshop events in Woodstock, offers private crafting events, perfect for GNO. Event suggestions include jewelry making, candle pouring and prompted journaling. To shop artisan products and view the full calendar of events, visit theworkshop.site.

• Annie Zebrowski of Merci Events works to make sure social events, corporate events and more are inspiring, extraordinary and unforgettable. Share your vision for your next GNO — whether it involves celebrating a special event, such as a birthday or bachelorette party, or even reconnecting with your friends from school — and let Zebrowski help you bring it to life. Visit mercieventplanning.com to learn more.

• The Gifted Ferret , a unique shopping and events boutique in Woodstock, offers private winetasting and gourmet chocolate truffle wine-pairing events, as well as a variety of themed events each month. Visit thegiftedferret.com to check out plans and pricing for events during and after store hours.

Girls’ Night In

• Classy Clay’s Catering in Kennesaw offers catering, meal prep and dine-in Southern cooking options. If you’re hosting girls’ night in, let Classy Clay’s take care of the food, so you can focus on setting up a dance floor for karaoke or mixing creative cocktails with your friends. View featured menu options at classyclayscateringandmore.com.

• If you’re planning a movie night, order homemade pralines and other goodies online from Mama Eva’s Pralines, mamaevaspralines.com. Boasting a variety of flavors, such as cinnamon roll, apple pie, birthday cake and Ghirardelli chocolate, the pralines — or cornflake candies! — will pair perfectly with popcorn. Make sure you have plenty of pillows and blankets, and ask each person to bring her favorite bottle of wine.

Beauty products are available for purchase at Governors MedSpa and Concierge Medicine’s beauty bar. Photo by LaRuche Photo.

Girls

JUST WANT TO Have Fun!

Out(side) on the Town

• Downtown Canton First Friday is a monthly block party featuring live music on Main Street, 6-9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, enjoy food and drinks, and browse shops with your favorite friends or family members. (I won’t tell your crazy aunt you didn’t invite her!) The Troubadour Project performs on June 2, and The Rupert’s Orchestra performs July 7. Check for updates at facebook.com/ CantonGAFirstFriday.

• Reserve a VIP table for you and five others at the Kennesaw First Friday Concert Series, 7-9:30 p.m. downtown. GlowBand performs June 2, and Run Katie Run performs Aug. 4. There will not be a performance in July, but the city’s Salute to America event is set for July 3. For more details, visit kennesaw-ga.gov.

• Sweet Zensations, a dessert food truck found at local events in the metro Atlanta, Cartersville and Marietta areas, also can be booked for catering and more. The menu includes sundaes, soft-serve, waffle cones, milkshakes and floats. Visit sweetzensationsicecreamtruck.com for a list of upcoming events or to treat yourself and book the truck.

• Georgia Impact Women’s SemiProfessional Soccer home games will be 7-10:30 p.m. at Cherokee High School in Canton. There are three options to cheer on our metro Atlanta team with your ladies this month, while enjoying food trucks, halftime games and more. Georgia Impact will play FC Birmingham June 3, Charlotte Eagles June 17 and Atlanta Fire United June 21. For tickets, visit gaimpactwpsl.com.

12 AROUND KENNESAW | June 2023

Women in Business

• Round up some co-workers or friends, and make it a girls’ night networking! IN WDSTK holds Mingle, an after-hours networking event, monthly at various Woodstock locations. This month’s event is June 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m., and food and beverages will be served. For the event location and to RSVP, visit inwdstk.org/events.

CHECK OUT THESE Coupons!

Visit

• Wasabi

• Lissthetics

• Mama Eva’s Pralines

Ladies sing along to Skipper Grace’s 2019 Canton First Friday concert. Photo by Teena Coogle Photography.

Hello Summer

for All Ages 7 Ideas for Fun Activities

BY DONNA HARRIS

School is out, and it’s time for relaxing, spending time with family and friends, and throwing away the schedule. Here are a few ideas to help your family fill its time with fun the next couple of months, whether you’re staying home all summer or just need something to do for a day or two.

1. Take advantage of our parks.

The parks in Acworth and Kennesaw offer peaceful, natural beauty as well as a variety of activities for everyone.

Acworth: https://bit.ly/3VjXEgM

• Cauble Park, on the north side of Lake Acworth, is the place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, a little fishing or an electric-motor boat ride. You also can watch the annual July Fourth Concert and Fireworks show there from 5-11 p.m.

• For access to Lake Allatoona, visit Dallas Landing or Proctor Landing park. Each has a beach, volleyball courts and horseshoe pits for a full day of fun.

• If you’re closer to downtown, visit Logan Farm Park for walking trails, a fishing pond and playgrounds or attend summer events like Concert on the Green: A Juneteenth Celebration and the Classic Car Cruise.

Kennesaw: https://bit.ly/3AIPZ29

• At Swift-Cantrell Park, kids can explore the playgrounds, including an inclusive playground for those with special needs, or perfect their newest trick at the skatepark. Pet lovers can take their pooch to the dog park. And families can go for a walk on a trail, cool off at the splash pad and enjoy a nice picnic. Also, take part in the city’s Outdoor Movie Series by catching the family-friendly flick “Finding Nemo” (G) on July 22.

• Besides having baseball and softball fields, batting cages, tennis courts and a playground, Adams Park also is home to the Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, which takes place Aug. 18 from 6-10 p.m. and Aug. 19 from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. If you love barbecue, don’t miss this event.

• Depot Park downtown normally hosts the annual Salute to America concert and fireworks show every July 3, but this year’s event will be held downtown, due to ongoing construction on the new amphitheater. And if you’re a fan of outdoor concerts, head to the Pedestrian Underpass/Tunnel Plaza on Aug. 4, 7-9:30 p.m., to hear Run Katie Run perform as part of the First Friday Concert Series.

2. Volunteer at a local nonprofit.

If you’re looking for a way to give back to your community, there are a number of nonprofits who need volunteers. MUST Ministries will continue its Summer Lunch program, a time-honored tradition of partnering with churches, schools, corporations and volunteers to feed thousands of kids in the Atlanta metro area, through July 29. The goal is to provide breakfast and lunch to at least 6,000 children for nine weeks. To volunteer or donate supplies, visit www. mustministries.org/summer-lunch. Mostly Mutts in Kennesaw is recruiting animal lovers to help with walking dogs, bottle-feeding kittens and other tasks. To offer your services, apply at mostlymutts.org/ volunteer. To find more volunteer opportunities in our area, check out www.justserve.org.

The MUST Ministries Summer Lunch program began in 1995 and serves thousands of kids each season.

3. Try out something new.

Summer is a great time for trying new things, whether it’s taking a class, playing a new sport or starting a new hobby. Test your endurance by running a road race like Kennesaw’s Summer Sun Run 5K through downtown June 10. Sample the dishes at a new restaurant, like sushi at Wasabi, or treat your taste buds to a cuisine they’ve never tried before, like Thai or Mediterranean. Always wanted to fly your own plane? Sign up for flying lessons at Superior Flight School. Try your hand at pickleball, a fastgrowing sport suitable for the whole family. Tap into your inner shutterbug by capturing images from a Cobb County park and entering your best shots in the Fun in the Park Photo Contest. For rules and entry forms, visit https://bit.ly/2RJJebn.

4. Check out your local library.

The North Cobb and West Cobb regional libraries plan a whole calendar full of activities each month, including storytimes, book clubs, chess, a craft club and Pokemon. See how much reading you can squeeze in through July 31 during the Summer Reading Challenge for all ages. Use your library card to check out passes for free or discounted tickets to local attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium, Southern Museum, Smith-Gilbert Gardens, Zoo Atlanta, and state parks and historic sites. To see what other services and programs are available, visit www.cobbcounty.org/library.

5. Frequent the farmers markets.

Support our agricultural economy by visiting the Kennesaw Farmers Market (Mondays, through Sept. 25, 3:30-7 p.m., Main Street Underpass Plaza, https://bit.ly/3oWVfwv) or the Acworth Farmers Market (Fridays, through Oct. 27, 8 a.m.-noon, Logan Farm Park main entrance, https://bit.ly/3nmJU8g). Buy corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, watermelons, and homemade breads and desserts, then head home or to a nearby park for a cookout.

6. Plan a professional photo

session.

Time was when families dressed in their Sunday best and headed to a photography studio to have portraits made in front of a bland background. Now, photographers are meeting casually dressed families in beautiful outdoor settings for portraits that are more spontaneous and carefree. Preserve memories of your family — and have fun being models for a day — by scheduling a session with a professional photographer like Brian Nejedly Photo or M. Jae Photography. And put a cherry on top by stopping for ice cream on the way home.

7. Spend time at Lake Allatoona.

Got a day with no plans? Head to the lake for some paddleboarding, kayaking, water skiing, fishing, swimming, boating, watercrafting or picnicking. Or if one day isn’t enough time to pack in all that fun, pitch a tent — or pack your recreational vehicle — for a weekend or a week of camping in one of the lake’s campgrounds. Ride your bike, walk your dog, relax on the beach and make s’mores by the campfire during a staycation that’s far enough from home to allow you to rest and recharge.

Load up on fresh produce all summer at the Acworth and Kennesaw farmers markets.

Run a road race, like Kennesaw’s Summer Sun Run 5K, for exercise and to help a good cause.

Around & About

JUNE

Pet Costume Contest

Registration through June 17, online voting

June 8-17

The Angie & Avery Foundation Inc., based in Kennesaw, is sponsoring the virtual fundraiser. Contestants will be judged on costume design, creativity, humor and originality. https://bit.ly/3WqjpMg

Vision To Learn

June 6 and 16, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

West Cobb Regional Library

1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw

Registration is open for appointments with the on-site mobile clinic that will provide free eye exams and glasses for children ages 5-18. Space is limited, and registration is required at https://bit.ly/3LZ1tni.

Gentle Yoga Flow

June 7, 21 and 24, 10-10:45 a.m.

Smith-Gilbert Gardens

2382 Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw

This class is designed to destress and release tightness and tension in the body and mind through conscious breathing, gentle movement and stretching. bit.ly/3BRTDaw

Civil War History Day

June 10, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Southern Museum, 2829 Cherokee St. Reenactors discuss artifacts, provide family-friendly activities and give living history demonstrations, fife and drum performances and historical lectures at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. https://southernmuseum.org/event/civilwar-history-day-2/

Summer Sun Run 5K

June 10, 7:30 a.m., 1-mile fun run; 8 a.m., 5K; and 8:55 a.m., Tot Trot downtown Kennesaw

The second race in the 2023

Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K Series, the premier 5K races in north Georgia, is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. Awards will be presented at 9:15 a.m. Entry fee of $35 includes a race T-shirt. Remaining races are Harvest Hustle 5K on Sept. 9 and Nightmare on Main Street 5K on Oct. 28.

Safe Disposal Event

June 17, 9 a.m.-noon

Jim R. Miller Park

2245 Callaway Road, Marietta

Clean out under the sink, garage, attic and shed, and get rid of household hazardous waste safely. www.keepcobbbeautiful.com

Coffee With a Cop

June 20, 8 a.m.

Honeysuckle Biscuits and Bakery

Hosted by the Kennesaw Police Department, this event will bring police officers and community members together to discuss issues.

Summer Spectacular

June 21, 4-8 p.m.

Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

Enjoy Kennesaw Parks and Recreation’s first free summer evening in the park with inflatables, yoga, DJ, skating contests, dog park giveaways, splash pad activities, popsicles, hot dogs and more.

https://www.kennesaw-ga.gov/ summerspectacular

2023 Fun in the Park Photo Contest

Through Nov. 2

Capture the fun, memories and beauty of Cobb County’s parks with your camera and enter your best shots in the following categories: Nature and Wildlife, Sports and Action, and General (anything else that shows fun in the park). Visit https://bit.ly/2RJJebn for rules and entry information.

The Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K Series is professionally timed and USA Track & Field certified.

JULY

Salute to America

July 3, 6-10 p.m., downtown Kennesaw

Enjoy live music on two stages, street entertainment, food vendors, family-friendly activities and fireworks. www.kennesaw-ga.gov/ kennesaw-event/salute-to-america-2

Southern Spirits

July 3, 7-10 p.m., Southern Museum

Kennesaw

The Kennesaw Museum Foundation fundraiser includes museum admission, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live music and prime viewing spots for Kennesaw’s Salute to America fireworks display. Must be 21 and older. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3lGVxpR.

Outdoor Movie Series

July 22, 6 p.m., Swift-Cantrell Park

Kennesaw

Kennesaw Parks and Recreation will conclude its free summer series with “Finding Nemo” (G). https://bit.ly/3zSGw7M

PARKS AND RECREATION

2529 J.O. Stephenson Ave. 770-424-8274 www.kennesaw-ga.gov/parks-andrecreation

Painting and Drawing With Jessica Geist

Mondays, July 10-Aug. 28, 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m.; Thursdays, July 13-Aug. 31, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Intermediate and advanced oil painters, ages 18 and older, can expect to learn or improve on techniques for creating depth and realism, as well as color theory and color mixing.

BSD Taekwondo

Mondays and Wednesdays, June 19Aug. 30, 6-7 p.m.

Ages 6 and older will develop focus, self-control and confidence.

Pottery: Hand Building and Wheel Class

Tuesdays, June 6-July 18, 9-11 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 5-7 p.m.

Adults will learn the coil, pinch and slab methods of hand building, then move on to wheel techniques.

Pottery: Advanced Hand Building and Wheel Class

Wednesdays, June 7-July 26, 7-9 p.m.

Adults with one to two years of pottery experience will develop skills, work on surface designs and techniques, and develop their artistic voice.

Pottery: Hand Building and Wheel Class

Thursdays, June 8-July 27, 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m.

FARMERS MARKET

Kennesaw Farmers Market

Through Sept. 25, 3:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays, Depot Park, 2828 Cherokee St. Applications are being accepted for the 2023 season. First preference will be given to vendors with fresh produce, meats, plants and food-related items. For information or to apply, email kennesawfarmersmarket@gmail.com or apply online at https://bit.ly/3TLvxX6. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

Adults will learn the coil, pinch and slab methods of hand building then learn to throw pottery on the wheel.

Little Dragons Taekwondo

Thursdays, June 22-Aug. 31, 5:30-6 p.m. This class teaches kids ages 4-7 about focus, self-control and discipline.

Karate for Adults: Practical and Applied

Thursdays, through Aug. 10, 7-8 p.m. This class, for ages 20-70, balances traditional karate techniques with realworld self-defense applications.

Pre-Juneteenth Festival

June 11, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jim R. Miller Park, Marietta

The second annual event will feature 100-plus vendor booths, food trucks, car and bike show competition, games, live entertainment and dancing. https://bit.ly/42hG7rQ

20th annual Cobb County Juneteenth Celebration

June 16-18, Friday, 7-11 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 2-6 p.m., Marietta Square

Enjoy the “Evening Under the Stars” concert Friday, a Cultural Festival Saturday and a Salute to Our Heroes Father’s Day celebration Sunday. www. cobbnaacp.org

One Community: A Juneteenth Celebration of Unity

June 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

The third annual event, hosted by the Kennesaw Police Department and its citizens advisory board, will feature music, food, inflatables, games, police cars and fire trucks. www.facebook.com/KennPD

Concert on the Green: A Juneteenth Celebration

June 17, 5-10 p.m. Logan Farm Park, Acworth

Live music will be played 7-9 p.m. Food will be available for purchase. https://bit.ly/3YHXvUy

Offering the

BY TAMMY WILBUR

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, normal family activities are replaced with doctor’s appointments and treatments that leave kids with weak immune systems. Often, one of the first things a child loses is the ability to play.

In 2009, childhood cancer survivor Erick Newman created Roc Solid Foundation, as he was longing to find his purpose and a way to provide hope to other families going through what he and his family had experienced 22 years earlier.

Roc Solid Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides hope and joy in the form of backyard playsets to kids who are undergoing cancer treatment. A new playset not only provides a safe, germ-free place to play, but it also gives the family an escape from the reality of cancer and a way to create happy memories together.

A little warrior princess in Kennesaw received a playset build from the foundation in April. Mia is a 5-year-old

Mia with her parents, Noah and Jasmin Philp.

Alex Hulsey leaves words of encouragement for Mia. The playset comes to life with the help of several volunteers who want to give Mia a safe place to play.

Gift of Play

disappeared, and a group of volunteers worked together to bring some sunshine the little girl’s way — building a simple playset that will give her a chance to forget cancer for a bit and just be a kid.

On the day of her build, Mia was in the hospital, with her mom by her side, due to complications from a recent chemotherapy treatment. But her papa, mimi, dad and Aunt Jaiden were on-site to tell the playset volunteers all about their little hero. They described her as “so beautiful and kind” and said if you know Mia, you love Mia. She is artistic and loves picnics, animals, Domino’s Pizza, the colors pink and purple (depending on the day), being outside, her trampoline, Barbies, Morgan Wallen and her dog, Behr. Mia is an only child, but ask her if she has any siblings, and her answer will be a brother, Behr, her German shepherd. She also will tell you she has two sisters (aunts), Jaiden and Zoey, and three other siblings, Bailey, Max and Koda, her grandparents’ dogs.

The completed playset was presented to Mia’s family members, who were so grateful and eager to see her reaction and excitement when she arrived home from the hospital. They shared photos of her getting home and seeing her new backyard playset, and her smile, when she saw it, was worth every second and more put into the build that day. And guess what Mia wasn’t thinking about at that moment — cancer!

Local businesses and groups can sponsor a backyard playset build for a child in their area. For more information, visit https://rocsolidfoundation.org.

Mia tries out the climbing wall.

World MUSIC Day June 21

Local Leaders Reveal Their Favorite Tunes

In honor of World Music Day, an annual celebration on June 21 to promote music bringing people together, Aroundabout Local Media reached out to local leaders to share their favorite bands and songs, their most memorable concert, any instruments they play and more.

Bill Westenberger

Kennesaw Police Chief

I love all genres, but my current favorite is country. While in college, I used to work security for the Omni arena. While working there, I had the pleasure of working several concerts and was able to see Paul McCartney. It was the best show ever.

I used to play drums – self-taught. My favorite album growing up was Journey, “Raised on Radio.”

Gene Pugliese

Acworth Alderman

My favorite genres of music are classic rock and country. The most memorable concerts I’ve attended were Champagne Jam at Grant Field and Styx, Foreigner, AC/DC, Eagles, Boston and Fleetwood Mac at the Omni.

My favorite albums growing up were Bob Seger, “Night Moves”; James Taylor, “Greatest Hits”; and Foreigner, “Foreigner.”

Cathy Green

Acworth Arts Alliance

Executive Director

I like most kinds of music, from classical and jazz to soft rock and country.

I have not attended a lot of concerts. Among my favorites that I have attended are the Eagles and Kenny G. I have enjoyed local concerts by Ollie Patterson and The Weekend Getaway Band.

I play the piano.

A few of my favorites as a teenager were John Denver, Boston, Queen and Billy Joel. Some of my favorites to listen to these days are Old Dominion, Zac Brown Band, Keith Urban, Niko Moon, Florida Georgia Line, Marc Cohn, Blanco Brown, Ed Sheeran, Kenny Chesney, Jim Brickman, George Winston and Kenny G.

Keli Gambrill

District 1 Cobb Commissioner

I do not have a playlist. However, I do listen to Christian-based music, with my favorite song being “Audience of One” (with lyrics – Greg Ferguson [Willow Creek]). Mannheim Steamroller at Christmas, “Phantom of the Opera” and “Les Miserables” and arrangements by John Phillip Sousa, to name a few others. My first concert was The Beach Boys.

My most memorable concert was watching my cousin Shawn and seeing the passion he had for music and helping others realize their passion for music as well, either through listening or learning an instrument.

I was a flutist and a member of the band, jazz band and symphony orchestra until I completed college.

Growing up, I liked anything but country, as this was all my dad would allow to be played if he was within listening distance! Today, I have an appreciation for all genres of music.

Bill Westenberger

Shannon Kiger

Palmer Middle School Principal

A sample of songs/artists on my playlist: “Free” by Zac Brown Band, “Fire Away” by Chris Stapleton, “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Midnight Rider” by Allman Brothers Band, “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses, “Still of the Night” by Whitesnake, “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor and “Brick House” by Commodores.

I love classic rock, Southern rock, classic country, ’80s rock and disco.

My most memorable concert was Van Halen, and for the most memorable local concert, I love going to MadLife in Woodstock to watch cover bands.

I cannot play an instrument, but I am good at air guitar! Growing up, my favorite album was “Working Class Dog” by Rick Springfield.

Butch Price

Acworth Alderman

I am a fan of what is known as ’50s Gold. I love Elvis Presley, Roy Orbinson, The Four Seasons, the Bee Gees and Sarah Vaughn.

My favorite concert was a performance by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Locally, my favorite concert was in Marietta and featured The Australian Bee Gees.

My absolute all-time favorite song is “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers.

Tim Richardson

Acworth Mayor Pro Tem

My favorite genres of music are classic ’50s/’60s/’70s rock, classic ’40s/’50s/’60s country and bluegrass.

The most memorable concert I’ve attended was the Fox97 Oldies Concert, featuring Chuck Berry, at the Georgia Dome. It was in the ’90s, and Chuck could still get down and duck walk across the stage.

My musical ability is limited to humming or whistling off-key. Growing up, the first 45 rpm record I remember playing over and over again was “The Purple People Eater” by Sheb Wooley. I was about 5 years old. The record belonged to my older brother.

Tim Houston

Acworth Alderman

My favorite genres of music are jazz, funk, R&B and gospel. The most memorable concert I’ve attended was Funkadelic at the Omni in Atlanta.

My favorite albums/songs growing up were Shalamar, “Three For Love”; Blue Magic, “Sideshow”; Prince, all of them; and Funkadelic, “Cosmic Slop.”

Getting ready to head to the Guardians of the Jukebox concert at Suwanee Park in April are, bottom, Shannon and Jay Kiger of Acworth and Kathy and Kevin King of Suwanee.

JROTC Named Distinguished Unit Again

SUBMITTED BY KENNESAW MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

The Kennesaw Mountain High School Navy JROTC program was established in 2001, when the school opened, with goals of promoting patriotism, teaching and nurturing a love of country, cultivating respect for the flag and pride in the American way of life, and developing informed and responsible citizens. The program helps cadets learn about their civic responsibilities, duties and rights that come with being an American citizen.

It also shows the benefits of living a healthy, fit and drug-free life. Students learn and understand the negative effects that drug use and other harmful actions will have on them and others. And JROTC develops leadership qualities by giving cadets a number of opportunities to lead teams, groups and activities and to perform unit staff jobs. They will be challenged, as these experiences become more complex and rigorous every year to prepare them for the future. And the Kennesaw Mountain cadets, who make up the smallest unit in the 61-school Area 12, stay engaged continuously in activities that stimulate the traits needed for advancing through life.

“They understand that the road to success is staying productive, making sound and ethically correct decisions and bringing a positive environment to everywhere they are,” said Gunnery Sgt. Matthew McLean, a first-year naval science instructor who began teaching after retiring last June.

Since the program’s establishment, the cadets have distinguished themselves through many accolades and accomplishments, including being named a Distinguished Unit with Academic Honors for the 20th year. Earning this title — awarded to the top 10%-15% of Area 12 schools by the naval service training command, Area 12 — isn’t easy. Of the 50-60 cadets, 60% have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, showing the importance of setting and accomplishing goals.

Besides their core academics, the cadets also are part of various teams within the unit: drones, drill, academics, physical fitness, rifle marksmanship and orienteering. Three of these teams — drones, orienteering and academics — qualified for state competition this year.

To reach this level, the cadets’ time-management skills are key. Alex Russu, a naval science Level 2 cadet, is an excellent representative of the successful program. After winning the 2023 Atlanta Metro Cadet of the Year title, Alex was nominated to represent the school and Cobb County as one of the 45 JROTC Navy and Marine Corps units competing for the Wells-Pratt Award for Cadet of the Year. He is a true testament to the forward direction of the unit and the cadets’ dedication to winning.

Looking to the future, the unit is excited to continue building on its distinguished past success. Whether hosting the annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony, attending local parades or setting up feeder school recruiting efforts, the unit constantly strives to improve and grow the program. It now has electronic marksmanship ranges on campus, allows for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) drone wing testing and has partnered with Superior Flight School for simulation practice and logging FAA instrument hours.

Whether expanding its community service initiatives or increasing its involvement in competitions and events, the program stays focused on developing the next generation of leaders and preparing them to succeed in whatever future endeavors the cadets pursue. The program will continue its tradition of excellence by building on the foundation that has been laid over the past two decades. It also will remain committed to providing its cadets with the skills and opportunities they need to become responsible citizens and to have a positive impact on their community.

The Kennesaw Mountain High School Navy JROTC unit cadets.

CAMERA ACTION!

Kennesaw State University Presents First Film Festival

Student-made films of every style and genre received the red-carpet treatment during the first film festival at Kennesaw State University (KSU) on April 28. The showcase created a platform for aspiring filmmakers to present their work and celebrate the art of visual storytelling.

In his first semester teaching media and entertainment (MENT) at KSU, assistant professor Sangsun Choi already has made a significant impact on campus by organizing the event. He said his students had their first Q&A as filmmakers and were excited about expressing their feelings on stage.

“When you consider MENT major students, most of them are super comfortable behind the camera, and based on my experience this year, most of my students are a bit introverted, and they don’t stand on the stage often,” he said. “This festival experience was somewhat different for them.”

The School of Communication and Media has about 1,400 students enrolled, and half have expressed interest or already enrolled in the MENT program. With this in mind, Choi recognized a great need for students to showcase their work on the big screen.

“Previously, I have managed similar film festivals, so I already had some experience related to organizing festivals,” he said. “When I considered the size of the university and the number of students here, I thought we should definitely have a film festival.”

As a professor and filmmaker, Choi said attending film festivals is crucial to students’ growth as directors. Observing the audience’s facial expressions and reactions to their films can teach students many lessons about communicating with their viewers. He felt the school needed to create an event where students could learn the importance of that communication.

The festival was an opportunity to make all aspects of cinematography interesting for students. Choi chose four professional judges to review submissions for the festival. These judges were industry professionals or professors from peer institutions.

“Our students are already familiar with our instruction and preference as filmmakers,” he said. “I wanted to show their work to the people off-campus, so the students would be more excited about the judging process.”

Considering it was KSU’s first film festival, Choi was concerned about the number of student submissions. However, he was surprised to receive 47 films and more than 80 students preregistered for the event.

Regardless of whether they are a MENT student or individuals who enjoy filmmaking as a hobby, students were eager to submit their work. Evyn Barron presented his Edgar Wright-inspired zombie short film “Operation: SPAM” and won the award for Best Narrative.

A unique aspect of Barron’s film was its live-action animation sequences inspired by “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and “Home Alone.” Barron drew each frame in Photoshop, then animated it all in After Effects. It was his first time designing animations this way, so most of the process was trial and error, he said.

Attending the film festival were, from left, Julie Holland, Brooke Baird, Christian Fulks, Miah Jordan, Matthew Clark, Conor Kilkenny and Lukas Kriechbaum. Photo courtesy of Sofia Aguilar.

“I’ve had some experience in making motion graphics, but animating like that was completely new to me,” he said. “It took longer than editing the actual film.”

Directing a film necessitates extensive planning and effective communication. Barron said he uses these steps to his advantage by waiting to see what comes to him on set. He can get a clear vision for his films by working with the crew.

“Filmmaking is like a puzzle, and putting it together is the best part,” he said.

A notable experience of attending film festivals is watching it for the first time on the silver screen. After viewing “Operation: SPAM” repeatedly during the editing process, Barron said it got tiring. Seeing it for the first time in a theater allowed him to watch it from an entirely different perspective.

“The experience was very refreshing and, honestly, very honoring,” he said. “We made history. Who gets to be a part of that all the time?”

A reliable crew is crucial to making a script come to life. Julie Holland, a rising junior at KSU, helps out on set in any way she can. She was the main character in Barron’s “Operation: SPAM” and directed her short film that won the Narrative Award of Excellence at the festival.

Holland’s film, “The Parallel,” was inspired by a creative-writing prompt from high school. It focuses on two main characters arguing when one gets stuck in a parallel universe, unable to escape. The script was reflective of her personal life, she said.

“The whole premise is a metaphor for when two people disagree and are both in the wrong, but neither of them can see that they’re in the wrong,” she said. “For her to get out of the parallel universe, they had to come together and admit to their wrongdoings.”

Every filmmaker experiences personal growth when directing a film for the first time. Holland said she is not a confrontational person, and being a leader is not a role in which she always feels comfortable. However, she knew she wanted her story told a certain way and knows leadership is a skill everyone needs to learn.

And the Winner Is …

Best Documentary

“Two Paths: The Psychology of a Freelancer vs. a Full-Time Employee”

Director: Marco Castaneda

Narrative Award of Excellence

“The Parallel” Director: Julie Holland

Best Narrative

“Operation: SPAM” Director: Evyn Barron

Documentary Award of

Excellence

“Steve Irwin: His Life and Legacy”

Director: Jake Hirschler

Best Micro Work

“Don’t Give Alcohol a Voice”

Directors: Emily McGinnis, Quin Glass and Jean Boereau

Audience Award

“Desk Defender” Director: Sebastian Soler

Evyn Barron, top, celebrates winning the Best Narrative Award with Lukas Kriechbaum and Miah Jordan. Photo courtesy of Haley Kissun.

On the Move

Page Relocation Grows in Size and Services to Deliver the ‘Simplest

Witha growing fleet, the team at Page Relocation is busy every week, moving residential and commercial clients across town and across the country. Yet, the company continues to find time to work on improving the business, maintaining excellent customer service and ensuring clients have their simplest move ever.

Page Relocation has grown from three employees and two trucks to 35 employees and 12 trucks in three years. Just this year, the fleet has grown by two, and two larger trucks have been ordered for 2024. The growing fleet ranges in size to accommodate any move, including semis to manage large and long-distance moves.

“I’ve been driven by the desire and determination to provide exceptional service to everyone I’ve worked with,” owner Justin Page said. “Through bold progression, Page Relocation is recognized as the largest, privately owned moving and storage company headquartered in Cherokee County – guided by the promise to provide exceptional relocation experiences.”

More services, in addition to the larger fleet, have been added to accommodate clients’ needs. Recently, Justin invested in more than 100 large wooden storage vaults, with plans to expand storage options. These vaults give clients an improved option for short- and long-term storage while transitioning to their new homes.

“These vaults provide our clients with a flexible storage option meeting their exact needs,” Justin said. “Once a client’s possessions are placed inside, the vaults are sealed until the client is ready for us to move everything to their new home.”

Local, Award-Winners

Page Relocation is a local, familyowned company proudly serving Greater Atlanta and north Georgia. Based in Canton, the business has been recognized in 2021 and 2022 as Canton’s Readers’ Choice award recipient in the Relocation Service category, and nominated for the 2023 award. However, Justin doesn’t take his company’s success for granted.

“I, and all of us at Page Relocation, have been truly blessed for the support of our community, helping us grow over the past three years,” Justin said. “Without this, Page Relocation would not have flourished, enabling us to make every move our customers’ simplest move ever. Thank you for your continued support, as we only become better to serve you and all of Greater Atlanta and north Georgia.”

Care Makes a Difference

Trusting a company with all your valued possessions can be stressful, and the team at Page Relocation understands that concern. To relieve anxiety, the team of professional movers is background-checked, trained and dedicated to each client’s happiness. From start to finish, the

focus is providing exceptional service by delivering each client’s valuables to wherever they move, no matter how far the move.

“We are proud to offer complete origin-to-destination service wherever our clients move,” Justin said. “Even our long-distance moves are serviced only by Page Relocation, traveling on

Move ‘Simplest

Move Ever’

770-224-8184

PageRelocation.com

PageRelocation E

to reduce the stress children might feel during what can be a major event in their lives. The publication introduces Boxer, the ambassador for Page Relocation. With Boxer’s help, children get excited about the process of moving. You can learn more at www.pagerelocation.com/childrencenter, where free coloring pages can be downloaded.

Growing Partnerships

our trucks, unlike some movers who use a third party.”

A Variety of Services

From the initial consultation to the final satisfaction check, the team at Page Relocation offers a wide range of services to help make each client’s move the simplest move ever. All needs are covered, from full or partial

packing services, flexible storage options, professional crating, largeitem disassembly and reassembly, junk removal and vehicle transport.

Another initiative involves the younger members of families who are moving. “We Are Moving” is an activity and coloring book that explains the basics of the moving process, in an effort

Page Relocation is building relationships within Greater Atlanta and north Georgia and is proud to be the official moving partner of several real estate companies. The vetting process has been completed by the broker; clients can be assured they have a reliable and capable moving company by their side.

“I’ve worked hard for over 15 years to build professional relationships with hundreds of top-rated Realtors,” Justin said. “I’m blessed that they trust me enough to refer Page Relocation to their clients.”

AROUND KENNESAW | June 2023 29

READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER BEST Relocation Service

PAGE RELOCATION LLC

620 Waleska Road Canton, GA 30114

4 Common Flooring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

BY ELISABETH STUBBS

Are you shopping for new floors and worried you will make an expensive mistake? Many people feel this way, especially when it is something they have never done before. There are so many choices and information to absorb. Here are four common flooring mistakes to avoid:

1. Choosing a flooring product without considering your lifestyle and needs. There is no universal best type of flooring. Different types of floors will hold up differently depending on factors like traffic, pets, kids, etc. Knowing your family’s lifestyle and picking flooring that fits into that lifestyle is something that a lot of people don’t consider. For example, picking a high-gloss hardwood floor when you have young kids and pets is setting the floor up for failure. All floors have pros and cons. You need to take the time to determine what product will best meet your needs — lifestyle, budget, appearance, maintenance, etc. — while creating the fewest concerns. Spend time talking with flooring professionals, and be honest about what you do not like about your current floor. Then, listen to the recommendations and advice. Be open to products you have not considered or did not know existed.

2. Falling for advertising gimmicks. There are lots of claims that companies will make to get customers in the door: “buy one room, get two free” or “free installation.” As Clark Howard says, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Companies that advertise these things are not giving you anything for free. The cost to cover the “two free rooms” typically is hidden in the price of the one room or in the labor charges. Get more than one estimate, make sure you are comparing apples to apples and look at the bottom-line prices.

3. Selecting poor-quality products. Putting in new floors is an expensive project. It takes lots of planning and saving to make sure you are getting a highquality product that will last for a long time. You don’t want to end up choosing a product that you’ll need to replace soon due to poor quality. Ultimately, it will cost you more money than you’ll save by choosing low-quality flooring.

4. Not understanding what you are buying. Picking a new floor can be a daunting task. There are hundreds of different products to choose from, and you want to make sure you are getting the best quality product for your budget. All carpet is not the same, just like all cars are not the same. For example, a 30-ounce polyester carpet is totally different and less costly than a 65-ounce nylon carpet. And a Kia is not at all like a Rolls Royce. The more you know about the flooring products available, the easier it will be to make the best choice for your home.

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

Carpet can provide a soft and cushioned surface for children to play.

Luxury vinyl plank is easy to maintain and a good choice for bathrooms, due to its water resistance.

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Enhance Floors & More is one of the most experienced flooring companies in North Georgia. Founded 38 years ago in Marietta, the flooring showroom is locally owned and staffed by a skilled team with a combined 150-plus years of experience.

Clients rave about how Enhance Floors is a “one-stop shop and made what could have been an overwhelming experience easy and fun.” Pop in to browse the large selection of flooring options and see for yourself what all the hype is about.

ü Complimentary In-Store Design Assistance

ü Interest-Free Financing

ü40+ Installed Flooring Products

Recognizing Women Veterans Nurse Shares Experiences of Serving in

Air Force

BY NICOLE SMITH

Women Veterans Day, also referred to as Women Veterans Appreciation Day or Women Veterans Recognition Day, honors women who have served or are serving in the military. First observed on June 12, 2018, organizers chose the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act being signed into law in 1948 as the official date of the remembrance, according to VA News. Before the act was passed, women could serve only as nurses in the regular and reserve forces during peacetime. After the act, women were able to serve in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.

In honor of Women Veterans Day, local veteran Kathleen Gamblin is sharing her experience of serving almost seven years in the U.S. Air Force, which she joined in 1997.

The Kennesaw resident — one of 16.5 million veterans (and 1.65 million female veterans) living in the United States in 2021, according to census

data — felt her path into the service was a bit different than most.

“I had been working as a nurse and living in Florida for about two years,” Gamblin said. “I knew that there was something else I wanted to do, and I started exploring my options. I was looking through a nursing magazine one day, and there was an advertisement for the Air Force Nurse Corps.”

Her father, uncle and the man she was dating at the time all served in the Air Force — and her grandfather was in the U.S. Army during World War I — so she was intrigued. Since she already was helping others as a nurse, stepping into a bigger role of service seemed like a good decision, although she admits she had no idea what she was getting into.

“While I had family that had been in the Air Force, it had been years before,” she said. “I had one acquaintance in nursing school who had served in the Air Force, but I didn’t really know anybody close that had gone into the military. So it was definitely a whole new experience for me.”

Gamblin served stateside and is thankful to have been stationed at three different bases during her career, which she said is rare unless you have been in for many years. After completing officer training, she served as a nurse at Travis Air Force Base in California, Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

The nurse recalled two memorable experiences from her time in the Air Force, which expects its

Kathleen, left, with her sister and brother-in-law.

Capt. Kathleen Gamblin, left, with her family, from left, father-in-law, Lt. Col. Hoyt Gamblin; brother-in-law,

personnel to also participate in activities outside their primary job. “I served as an escort officer for a one-star general at a conference on the base,” she said. “That was definitely an interesting experience and a chance to see the other sides of the military structure.”

But the most profound experience Gamblin had was participating in a repatriation ceremony. She said the military is still searching for and identifying the remains of soldiers from the Vietnam War and bringing them home.

“They actually had remains that they were able to bring home,” she said. “They bring them to Hawaii for DNA identification, and then they fly that service member, typically, through Travis Air Force Base. To pay military honors, the plane is always greeted by military members, and I was part of the group to welcome the soldier home. Realizing this man had been gone, at that time, for 50 years, and his family had not known where he was or what had happened to him made welcoming him home that much more special. At that time, we had not seen 9/11 or the war in Afghanistan and the casualties we’ve seen in the last 10-15 years. So it was a great connection to what people and their families truly sacrifice.”

One lesson Gamblin learned from her time in the military was to always be involved in more than just her traditional job — a lesson that has served her well. She said she has supported

multiple organizations and causes, but her main focus and passion is working with cancer patients and connecting them to resources. She also serves as a mentor to young adults who are interested in joining the military and offers assistance to new Air Force Nurse Corps students. Although she did not see combat, her husband did. He is a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, which they, along with their two daughters, support as a family.

Gamblin offered a piece of advice to those who are considering military service.

“The military is that last area where you don’t get to put yourself first,” she said. “The needs of the military are first, and you’re serving others. But in giving up myself and my own desires or wishes, what I gained from that experience was incredible.”

She said serving gave her a better understanding of how the country works and about the sacrifices made by people in the military, even during peacetime, as well as the opportunity to learn about other cultures. She also learned discipline and developed a stronger drive to work toward the greater good.

Nicole Smith is a writer, book influencer, dog mom and plant enthusiast living in Kennesaw. Connect with her on Instagram at booked4joy.

mother-in-law, Truth Ashby Gamblin; husband, Capt. Lloyd Gamblin; stepmother-in-law, Master Sgt. Shelley Gamblin; Lt. Col. Matthew Gamblin; and sister-in-law, Lt. Col. Sara Beyer.

Get to Know Jennifer Wells

Manager

West Cobb Regional Library

What are your main responsibilities?

I manage the West Cobb Regional Library in order to ensure excellent service to the Cobb County community. West Cobb has eight full-time and seven part-time employees. Recently, West Cobb Regional Library became a U.S. Passport Acceptance agency, and we have helped more than 1,000 residents get passports.

What is your background?

I started as a children’s librarian in Cobb County 23 years ago. Although unexpected, I loved it and worked with children for 12 years, and I still enjoy helping with programs.

What has been the biggest surprise?

Not a surprise to me, but library employees are not sitting and reading. The Cobb County Public Library (CCPL) provides a wide range of services to our community, such as research assistance for small businesses, programming for all ages, technology and digital literacy training and so much more.

What do you like most about your job?

I love it when the library is full of people, and I can feel the energy. When it is a little noisy, but you can’t hear any one voice above the others, that is when I can tell the library is being truly appreciated by the community.

What kind of growth have you seen?

Since I have been working at CCPL for 23 years, I have seen tremendous growth. We have added, expanded and renovated multiple branch locations, including the one where I work. The libraries now have thousands of digital resources and other technology, like 3D printers.

What library services are people surprised by?

Most people don’t know we have a lot of business and financial resources available. Small businesses in Cobb County should definitely look into what we have to offer. County residents also have access to many free classes from LinkedIn (technology), Craftsy (creative), ArtistWorks (music) and Gale Courses (a huge variety of topics).

What excites you about the library’s future?

The Cobb County Library is getting ready for our Summer Reading Program. We are planning lots of programs for all ages. Everyone can keep track of their reading via Beanstack to win prizes.

What are your goals?

Outreach to communities, because so many people still don’t know what public libraries have to offer. For example, every public school student already has a library account. They can check out five physical items from the library and use all the digital resources we provide for free. I have visited many schools, and often students don’t know about this, and it is so important that we make sure everyone knows about all the great free resources we provide to the whole community.

Tell us about your family and hobbies.

My family moved to Cobb County when I was 9 years old. We all left for a little while, but we returned because it is a great place to live. I love living near Kennesaw Mountain. There are so many beautiful places to hike. I also knit and crochet. The West Cobb Regional Library has a craft meetup every Thursday starting at 10 a.m. I have been able to teach a lot of people how to make stuff from yarn.

Gearing Up for the Family Garden Club

BY KATE JACOBSON

You know you could get 100 pounds of books from the library — if you’re really strong! — but what about getting 100 pounds of produce? For staff and visitors at North Cobb Regional Library, summertime means working in North Cobb Community Garden. The library’s garden produced more than 100 pounds of tomatoes, jalapeños, peppers and onions during its first growing season last summer, with help from community members who participated in the Family Garden Club on Monday nights.

For Mary Byram, the garden club was the highlight of her family’s summer. “One of the best aspects of the program is that it involves the whole family,” she said. “Side by side, we weeded, planted and eventually harvested a variety of vegetables, learning each step of the gardening process together.” At the end of the season, families even made salsa from the vegetables they grew — a fresh and tasty reward for their labor.

“We always strive to create unique experiences like this at the library by connecting learning to fun activities,” said Vidhya Jagannathan, makerspace coordinator and head gardener at North Cobb. “Libraries are a lot more than just books these days. We used to be like the grocery store — people came to libraries to get ‘ingredients’ for whatever they wanted to learn on their own. Now we’re also the kitchen where you can experiment with the ingredients and learn with others.”

The garden club will return this summer, and Cobb County public libraries have cooked up a robust menu of other unique events for all ages. Check us out!

@ the Library

Kemp Memorial Library

4029 Due West Road, Marietta, 770-528-2527

• Summer Reading Science Lab, June 7, 21, July 5 and 19, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Explore science concepts with hands-on activities. Ages 6-12.

• Craft Club, third Thursday of the month, 1-2 p.m. Experiment with different types of art. Upcoming themes include Soft Pastels and Color Comfort. Ages 18 and older.

North Cobb Regional Library

3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw, 770-801-5320

• Family Garden Club, Mondays in June and July, 5-6 p.m. Help us grow our garden and learn about environmental science along the way. Ages 5 and older.

Stratton Library

1100 Powder Springs Road, Marietta 770-528-2522

• Soldier Stories, June 6, 11 a.m.-noon. Honor Memorial Day and D-Day by learning more about veteran Tony Dooley, who served in the U.S. Army. Ages 10 and older.

• Warhammer Alliance, June 9, 16, 23 and July 7, 14, 21, 10 a.m.-noon. Build, paint and play this tabletop strategy game. Ages 11 and older.

West Cobb Regional Library

1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw 770-528-4699

• Community Fairy House Exhibit, June 17, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Build a fairy house at your home and install it in our outdoor exhibit that will stay up all summer. Register online at cobbcat.org, build at home and install your house June 17. All ages.

• Adult Tabletop Role-Playing Game

Meetup, July 15, 2-3 p.m. Play games like Dungeons & Dragons or Pathfinder with a group. Ages 18 and older.

Vision To Learn: Returning for Summer Break 2023

Free vision exams for ages 5-18 will be provided for families in need by the nonprofit Vision To Learn. Dates are June 6 and 16 for West Cobb, June 9, 15 and 16 for North Cobb and June 12 for Stratton. Appointment slots are available 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. If your child needs a prescription, glasses are free and will be delivered at a later date. Registration is required, and space is limited. bit.ly/vtlcobblibrary

Kate Jacobson is the assistant branch manager at North Cobb Regional Library. She firmly believes audiobooks count toward your reading goal!

Kids harvest vegetables to use for last summer’s Family Garden Club party.

TEXT BOX

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

UPCOMING EVENTS

A Perfect Time to Try New Hobbies

BY KEVIN JABBARI

02

TEXT BOX

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

“Summer means happy times and good sunshine,” Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys once said. We are so happy it’s officially summer, and we get to enjoy long days with our families and friends. Summer is the time for vacations, fun in the sun and campfires at night. It is an opportunity to grow as an individual and with family and friends.

02

With more free time, summer is the perfect time to try a new hobby. As a kid, it was easy to find new hobbies. When you become an adult, it is difficult to find time to try new things and leisure activities. Hobbies matter. They lead to better physical health, more sleep, lower stress, improved work performance, happiness and the opportunity to meet new friends. During these longer days, get inspired, spark your interests and follow your passion.

TEXT BOX 04

Hobbies take time, and you might be telling yourself you just don’t have that time. Believe it or not, we do have free time; we just don’t spend it wisely. Try not to think about your time in days; instead, think about it in weeks. See where you can make time for a new hobby, and put it on your calendar. Once you have the time, you have to choose the right hobby.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

TEXT BOX

TEXT BOX

2920 Busbee Parkway, Suite 109

June 27

Wake Up KBA

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

7:45-9 a.m.

22one Realty 2695 Summers St.

July 11

KBA Luncheon 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

KSU Professional Education Building 3333 Busbee Drive

Aug. 25

SUPER Women’s Conference

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Marietta Country Club

1400 Marietta Country Club Drive

Kennesaw

A hobby is something that you like to do or study in your spare time or a favorite pastime or avocation. What is one thing you’ve always wanted to do? Think about your childhood; how did you want to spend your time and what made you happy? This year, the Kennesaw Business Association (KBA) is focusing on being happy, and hobbies can do that for you! Pick one or two, then run with them.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

After kicking off June with The General Golf Tournament, KBA will have its monthly luncheon, sponsored by 22one Realty Co., June 13 at the KSU Professional Education Building, with networking starting at 11 a.m. Ready for even more fun in June? Our Alive After 5 will be June 20 at Forks and Flavors. This is a great opportunity for food, fun and networking. This event is always free for KBA members and $5 for guests. KBA will wrap up the month with our Wake Up KBA at 22one Realty. This is perfect for early-morning networking, coffee and an amazing home-cooked breakfast by Teena Regan. This will be a month of events you won’t want to miss.

We can’t wait to see you out and about this summer, supporting the community. Find some new hobbies, and remember: Always keep smiling.

“It’s summer and time for wandering.” — Kellie Elmore

TEXT BOX

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud

Kevin Jabbari is the president of the Kennesaw Business Association and owns Jabbari Property Services LLC.

If You Can Read This, I Didn’t Write It!

BY DAVID CAMPBELL

Lexi Pham, a student at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School in Hapeville, was selected the fifth-grade grand national champion in the 32nd annual Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest. That means Lexi had the best cursive handwriting among all the fifth-grade entries nationwide. Tens of thousands of students compete each year. It is quite an honor to win.

I read the story with fascination, partially because my handwriting has always been poor; hence, the headline. I was not talking about the content. I was talking about my handwriting! One reason I worked so hard at typing is because of my handwriting.

No matter how fast you type, it still looks the same. The faster I try to write by hand, the worse it gets. Every year, my teachers commented on my handwriting, and the comments never were positive. The day they stopped giving grades for penmanship was a great day for me.

As a local pastor, I send a lot of thank-you notes, and I handwrite each one. I’m sure I’ve strained the eyes of many church members. I can make it legible, but it takes a lot of time and effort. It never just happens on its own.

And that’s what really strikes me in all of this: how much handwriting is like life. It’s not something that just happens. It’s something that requires work, patience and discipline. Great athletes don’t just go

out and perform. They train — hard. Great musicians spend hours practicing. People who excel at a task work to do so. I bet if you asked young Lexi whether she just showed up and wrote, she would tell you that she did not. She worked at it.

This also is true of faith. The New Testament says we are saved by grace through faith. This can happen in a moment, but learning to live as a person of faith takes a lifetime. It means day after day, month after month, year after year, we live a life dedicated to following in the steps of the one who saves us. We practice love, mercy and forgiveness. We worship, pray, study and fellowship regularly. It doesn’t just happen. We work at it.

I congratulate the young lady on her penmanship. She has accomplished something I never have and probably never will. But more than that, I am grateful to her for the reminder that excellence takes work. For all of us who seek to live lives of faith, we always can use reminders like that.

Dr. David Campbell is the senior pastor at Due West United Methodist Church. He is a husband, father, grandfather and former Army chaplain. He can be reached at dcampbell@duewest.org. Church website duewest.org.

... handwriting is like life. It’s not something that just happens. It’s something that requires work! "

Rain is Good, But Too Much Can Be Bad

BY ROBERT TRAWICK

Adequate moisture is critically important to landscape plants during hot weather, but too much rain or excessive watering can bring problems. Wet soil combined with high temperatures can create stressful conditions for bedding plants, vegetables, shrubs and even trees, especially those planted this year.

When the soil is saturated, pore spaces, which normally hold air, are filled with water. Since the plants’ roots get the oxygen they need from the air in those spaces, the roots literally can drown in soil that’s waterlogged over an extended period. A sick root system leads to a sick plant. Plants affected by wet soil or root rot might look wilted even though the soil is moist.

Wet conditions encourage fungus organisms living in the soil to attack the roots or crown — the area where the stem enters the soil — of a plant, thus causing rot. Worse yet, once infection occurs, little can be done to help the affected plant.

Fungal diseases that attack the foliage of many plants thrive in rainy weather. Black spot on roses is prevalent, even on resistant varieties, and control is nearly impossible if it rains every afternoon. Cercospora leaf spot on crape myrtles causes the leaves to turn yellow or red and drop off. The disease is not fatal, and the trees will recover without sprays, but flowering might be diminished.

Plants with succulent stems, such as impatiens and begonias, as well as those that like cooler temperatures, such as geraniums and dianthus, and

those that prefer drier, well-drained soils, such as Indian hawthorns, are particularly susceptible to root rot. Gardeners can take steps to help alleviate the problem. Adjust the automatic timers on your irrigation systems. I often see sprinklers unnecessarily watering the day after a heavy rain because of timers. Turn them off when it’s rainy, and turn them on only during drier conditions. Keeping your beds well mulched will control weeds and maintain soil moisture, but if you find they’re staying too wet, pull back the mulch from around plants or remove it entirely to allow the soil to dry faster.

Pests like snails and slugs reproduce rapidly during rainy weather. These pesky critters chew holes in leaves and flowers and are particularly fond of soft-leaved plants, such as impatiens, begonias and hostas. Try not to let their populations get out of control. Toads in your garden feed on slugs

and should be left alone. Numerous baits on the market help control snails and slugs, or you can place a bowl in the ground up to its rim and fill it halfway with beer to attract and drown them.

Frequent rain can leach nutrients from the soil, so evaluate your landscape plantings and fertilize, if needed. Plants growing rapidly now, such as lawn grasses, summer bedding plants and tropicals, are especially vulnerable.

A soil test will tell you what and how much fertilizer to apply. The UGA Extension in Cobb County can help with testing: https://bit.ly/417dAUE.

The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County supports the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and strives to improve the quality of life in our community by delivering research-based horticultural information, educational programs and projects.

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

Too much rain can be detrimental to landscapes and gardens.

It’s Easier Than You Think to Be a Member

Credit Union of Georgia is a not-for-profit, memberowned cooperative with a mission of serving local communities by providing financial solutions and guidance for every stage of life. Deposits are federally insured up to at least $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration.

Recently, Credit Union of Georgia has been named Outstanding Partner in Education, Partner of the Year, Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Quarter, West Cobb Business Association Member of the Year, Best Bank/Credit Union for five years in a row, Best Mortgage Lending and more.

JOINING IS EASY

It’s easy to join Credit Union of Georgia, which is a full-service financial institution. Applications are accepted online at www.CUofGA.org or in person at any branch. With an initial deposit of only $10, members can begin enjoying the benefits of credit union membership.

Other benefits include:

• Full line of loan solutions, including auto loans, home equities, personal and recreational vehicle loans.

• In-house mortgage department.

• Business account options, including commercial lending.

• Instant-issue debit cards for checking members.

• Identity theft protection, roadside assistance, cell phone protection and more.

• No-cost financial advisor.

COMMUNITY MINDED

Credit Union of Georgia was established in 1960 to serve the faculty, staff and students of local school systems and institutions of higher learning. Later, the field of membership was expanded to serve those who live or work in specific counties in Northwest Georgia. With a history of serving educators, the Credit Union of Georgia has a passion for education and giving back to local schools and the community.

Fundraisers are held throughout the year. In 2022, Credit Union of Georgia employees volunteered more than 650 hours and raised and donated more than $100,000 to local charities and organizations.

IN THE FUTURE

Credit Union officials plan to expand the footprint in the coming years.

“We’ll continue to add branch locations as we continue to grow. For more accessibility, we are a part of the CO-OP Shared Branch network to give members access to nearly 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs and more than 5,000 shared branching locations,” said Brian Albrecht, president/CEO of Credit

AWARD-WINNING CREDIT UNION

2022 Aroundabout Local Media

Readers’ Choice: Best Mortgage Lending (Around Kennesaw, Townelaker)

2023 Best of Cobb: Best Credit Union (Marietta Daily Journal)

2023 Top 25 Small Business of the Year – Cobb Chamber

2023 Aroundabout Local Media

Readers’ Choice: Finalist

Union of Georgia. “We promise to give our members a place to bank that they can trust and depend on. We are your neighbors, and we want to serve you.”

4178 Jiles Road, Suite 200, Kennesaw 678-486-1111 | www.CUofGA.org

President/CEO Brian Albrecht at the Jiles Road branch.

PHOTO BY BRIAN NEJEDLY

Kennesaw Mountain

Past Hotel Plans for the Popular Tourist Spot

BY ANDREW J. BRAMLETT

The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was one of the most important events of the Civil War’s Atlanta Campaign. Fought on June 27, 1864, the battle brought national attention to Cobb County. For decades after the war, entrepreneurs attempted to cash in on that fame by advertising the area to tourists. Some took this idea a step further and decided to add a hotel to the top of the mountain.

The first of these audacious plans came in 1888, when the Marietta and North Georgia Real Estate

and Investment Co. announced its plans to the public. (The company is referred to in some newspapers as the M&NGRE&I Co., which seems almost as long as the company’s full name!) The group, led by J.H. Mountain, planned to build a streetcar line from Marietta to Kennesaw Mountain, a separate line to the summit and a $75,000 hotel at the top. At the time, the mountain was owned by William J.M. “Bill” Hames, who was part of the company initially. He and another partner, H.C. Birch, backed out in November 1888, and the project fizzled. The same company helped develop a neighborhood near Marietta National Cemetery in 1889, then vanished from existence. In 1896, Mountain allegedly defrauded the town of Garlington, South Carolina, and fled the law by traveling to Atlanta. He spread a false rumor that he had jumped from a bridge into the waters of the Chattahoochee and

escaped to Alabama, where he finally was arrested.

The next plan for a Kennesaw Mountain hotel was announced in 1915, more than half a century after the battle that put the site on the map. This project was led by William Tate Holland, Virgil McCleskey and C.M. Dobbs, who were able to purchase the mountain from Hames. The men, who formed Holland Realty Co., were inspired by a similar venture on top of Lookout Mountain and, much like the plan from almost 30 years before, planned to construct a streetcar line to Kennesaw Mountain.

The route of the streetcar would have paralleled the state-owned Western & Atlantic Railroad, then operated by the Nashville, Chattanooga and St. Louis Railway. To protect the state’s investment, a law was passed in 1916 that banned all tracks running roughly parallel to the railroad. This ended all plans for a Marietta-to-Kennesaw Mountain streetcar line, and Holland Realty Co. was forced to put its development on hold.

As Cobb County moved into the Roaring Twenties, more people began traveling by automobile. This was further spurred by the opening of the Dixie Highway in 1915, which is known now as Old 41. In 1922, Holland Realty Co. announced it would build a road to the top of Kennesaw Mountain. According to an article in the April 20, 1924, edition of the Cobb County Times, the new development would have “a macadamized toll road … a dancing pavilion and eating lodge; a museum building; a swimming pool, and the possibilities of a tourist hotel to crown the top of Little Kennesaw.”

By 1924, Holland Realty Co. had morphed into the Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Association, and the groundbreaking for the toll road was planned for May 24, 1924.

Gov. Clifford Walker broke ground on the toll road to the top of Kennesaw Mountain. This photo is from the May 25, 1924, issue of the Atlanta Constitution.

Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis, the first commissioner of Major League Baseball, was invited to attend the ceremony. When Landis had visited the year before, he was presented with a baseball carved out of rock from Kennesaw Mountain. While he was unable to attend groundbreaking, Gov. Clifford Walker was in attendance. The road opened a year later and had a 50-cent toll, which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics inflation calculator, would be equal to $8.72 in 2023 dollars.

In 1925, the Ben Padgett Co. announced it would be serving as the real estate agent for 200 halfacre lots on the slopes of Kennesaw Mountain. One advertisement, from the July 3, 1925, edition of the Atlanta Constitution, said “Kennesaw mountain [sic] is destined to become one of the south’s greatest developments. A museum, casino,

swimming pool, memorial park, etc., will make the residential development one of the south’s greatest. IT’S ALWAYS COOL ON KENNESAW.” Two days later, the newspaper had five ads for the company on a single page. It is unclear why these lots were never sold, but this was the last development plan for the mountain.

In the 1930s, Kennesaw Mountain became part of the National Park Service. It is hard to imagine how different our area might be if this Cobb County landmark had not been preserved.

Andrew Bramlett is vice president of the Kennesaw Historical Society and an honorary member of the Kennesaw Cemetery Preservation Commission.

Kennesaw Mountain has been a popular tourist attraction since the Civil War. This article from the Dec. 4, 1915, issue of the Atlanta Constitution describes the second plan to build a hotel on Kennesaw Mountain.

The Herald of Spring

Big Shanty Festival Draws Crowd to Kennesaw

Festivalgoers helped the Kennesaw Business Association and the city of Kennesaw welcome spring during the 47th annual Superior Plumbing Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival downtown April 22-23. Presented by LGE Credit Union and Georgia Grown, the annual rite of spring kicked off with a parade featuring more than 2,000 kids representing sports associations and schools in the area. Local businesses, beauty queens and marching bands from Kell, Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb high schools, as well as a charter school band and a home-school band, also added to the festivities. At the festival, attendees could browse through more than 250 arts and crafts booths, feast on tasty treats from 25 food vendors, enjoy entertainment on two stages and participate in a variety of kids’ activities.

Pugs of Cobb County members ride their Garden of Pugs float.

Marching bands from five local schools participate in the parade.

Scott Thompson performs acoustic music.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JRM MANAGEMENT

Handmade items for sale at the festival. This fudge vendor, no doubt, has a very popular booth at the festival.

The Georgia Grown Member Village was new to this year’s festival.

These animals are at Cobb County Animal Services, waiting for homes.

Rob’s Rescues

This month, I interviewed Jackie Wilcox of Lucky’s Place Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, based in Woodstock. Learn more about past and present residents and how you can help at www.luckys-place.org.

Tell us about Lucky’s Place.

This dog’s name is Outlaw. He is a large, 13-year-old gray dog. He was turned over to the shelter due to his owner moving. Outlaw walked very calmly on the leash. He is very sweet and well-behaved, and he will listen to you. Outlaw loves learning things and tries to please you. He is very old and needs a home to live out his days.

Years ago, my husband and I adopted a Dalmatian, Lucky, who loved all animals except other dogs. She was very interested in small wildlife and particularly loved a toad that would wait at the door for her to come outside and interact. I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true. They had a special bond. On our walks, I always told Lucky we were going to save animals, and she is my inspiration behind Lucky’s Place — where wildlife matters. I get a lot of injured squirrels and hit-by-car possums. I rehab them and get them back into the wild.

How did you get started?

I fell in love with a possum that kept visiting my front porch. I started talking to rehabbers and went from there. I have been licensed for small animal rehabilitation since 2020.

What animals do you help?

Mostly possums, squirrels, groundhogs and fawns. They are orphaned or injured — typically hit by a car or attacked by dogs and cats.

What is your favorite animal?

Possums are my favorite. They are very misunderstood creatures.

What should people know about wildlife?

Wildlife has its place in the ecosystem. Each species has a place. Don’t be afraid of wildlife. Foxes and possums are not going to charge you. Coyotes are not going to chase you. Possums and squirrels do not have rabies. If you see them out during the day, they are not rabid. They are just looking for food for their families.

How can the community help?

This cat’s name is Liya. She is 3 years old and was a stray. She is a very sweet cat who loves attention. Liya definitely will lay with you on the couch, and she is not a cat that complains loudly about things. She would very much love a home of her own.

What story do you love to tell?

A guy found a possum a dog had attacked. He thought it was dead and put it in a bag in the trash. Two days later, he noticed the bag moving. There were babies in the pouch. I rehabbed them, and when they were old enough, they went back to the wild.

Follow Lucky’s Place — Where Wildlife Matters on Facebook or visit the website. Transporters always are needed and can volunteer through the Georgia Wildlife Network. I always am grateful for donations and volunteers.

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

Rob with Jackie Wilcox and a possum at Lucky’s Place.

7 Ways to Avoid Burnout in the Workplace

BY JOEL WILLIAMS

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive world, burnout has become a problem for employers and employees. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. This can lead to a decline in performance, loss of motivation and mental illness. If you’re experiencing extreme stress in the workplace, there are some steps you can take to avoid burnout:

1. Manage your time wisely. Effective time management is one of the keys to avoiding burnout. Make sure you set realistic goals for yourself and prioritize tasks. There are many apps available, such as Trello, that allow the user to create a list of tasks and color-code them according to their degree of importance. Don’t forget to incorporate breaks into your day. A short walk will go a long way toward clearing your mind.

2. Practice self-care. Self-care is crucial for avoiding burnout. Take time to do things you enjoy, such as hobbies, spending time with loved ones or simply taking a relaxing bath. Prioritize your mental and physical health by eating healthy, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly.

3. Seek support. If you’re feeling burned out, seek support from others. Talk to friends, family or a therapist. Sometimes, just talking about your feelings can help alleviate stress. And if you’re stuck in a job that sets you up for burnout, you might learn of new and better employment opportunities to explore from friends and family.

4. Set boundaries. Maintain boundaries between your work and personal life whenever possible. Don’t hesitate to say “no” when you need to, and avoid taking on too many responsibilities.

5. Take time off. Taking time off from work is essential for avoiding burnout. Use vacation time. Relax and recharge your batteries. If you can’t take time off, make sure you’re taking breaks throughout the day to keep your mind fresh.

6. Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness can alleviate external distractions and help you stay in the moment. Deep breathing, meditation and yoga are practices that can keep you calm and centered, even in the middle of a stressful workday.

7. Delegate. Delegating tasks to others can help relieve the feeling of being overwhelmed. Learn to trust colleagues and delegate tasks where appropriate.

Taking care of yourself is crucial to long-term success and happiness. By practicing these seven suggestions, you can minimize the chances of burnout and find a healthy work-life balance.

An Alternate Route for High Schoolers

BY MICHELLE MARTIN

Georgia’s dual-achievement program, established by Senate Bill 204, offers qualified students between the ages of 16 and 21 a recognized alternate path to high school graduation. Students can choose to earn a high school diploma, two technical certificates of credit, a technical diploma or a college associate degree simultaneously, in a specific career pathway, in order to meet the state’s high school graduation requirements.

Dual achievement serves students who are seeking a different environment than a traditional high school. If you have a student who is unhappy with their current learning environment and has expressed a desire to withdraw, or already has made the decision to withdraw, the dual-achievement program might be a good fit for them. It is ideal for students seeking to complete their high school course requirements while earning college credentials that prepare them for in-demand careers.

In order to be eligible for Georgia’s dual-achievement program, students must withdraw from their high school or home-school program and provide proof of withdrawal, along with an official copy of their high school transcript. It also is necessary for students entering the program already to have completed and earned credit for six of the nine required high school courses (two English, two

math, two science, two social studies, one health/physical education). Students also must sign a dual-achievement program waiver.

There is no charge for high school-level coursework in the dualachievement program, and funding is available through the HOPE Career Grant to cover tuition for college-level coursework. To apply for the HOPE Career Grant, students must complete the Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP). Although there are no fees for students in the program, there might be some costs for tools or lab equipment, depending on the program of study.

Students, parents and school counselors should decide together whether dual achievement is a good fit. Once fit and eligibility are determined, students will apply, provide documentation, be accepted and proceed through an orientation, prior to starting the program. For a list of technical colleges that offer this program, visit www. tcsg.edu/completion2career.

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

Michelle Martin is director of dual achievement at Chattahoochee Technical College. Learn more about dual achievement at www.chattahoocheetech.edu/ chatt-tech-academy.

Let’s Build a House!

Life House Atlanta Seeks to Establish a Home for Pediatric Patients

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Dr. Kathleen Fleiszar has a big dream. Her work as a board-certified medical geneticist and professor of biology at Kennesaw State University (KSU) sparked an idea to build a place of respite and palliative care for children with lifelimiting illnesses — Life House Atlanta. Now retired, Fleiszar did genetic consultations for 10 of her 30 years teaching at KSU. “I’ve always had a soft spot for kids with special needs, and I volunteer at my church in the disabilities ministry,” Fleiszar said.

“While consulting, I met with many families with medically fragile children. I repeatedly observed how these children who suffered with rare illnesses and disabilities put demands on their family structure that can be overwhelming. This led me to do even more to serve these special families.”

Fleiszar first read about a home providing respite and palliative care for pediatric patients in a 2017 Phoenix newspaper article, which her sister shared with her. After touring the

home in Phoenix, Fleiszar began to build a team and a plan to establish a similar home in Georgia. She sought the support of her longtime friend, Fred Gabourie, who introduced her to Tony Rogowski, a lawyer and father of children with Type 1 diabetes.

Life House Atlanta became an official nonprofit in 2018 through the collaboration of these three individuals, and they are searching for a metro Atlanta location to establish the home, which will serve all of Georgia and beyond.

“Life House Atlanta will provide a free-standing home where infants and children with life-limiting illnesses, and their families, can enjoy a temporary getaway from the constant demands of specialized, round-the-clock care, at no cost,” Fleiszar said. “Here, kids can be kids and parents can take a break from the routine care of their loved one. Fragile little ones can enjoy music, art, gardens, and audiovisual and hydrotherapy rooms. Siblings can also interact with siblings from other families and share the common bond of living with and loving a special-needs child. The goal is for families to return home with memories to cherish for a lifetime.”

Mary Cota Reed, a Life House Atlanta board member, is a parent of a medically fragile child. Her daughter Cecilia discussed the struggle of having a sister with complex medical needs: “The first few years after Catherine was born were like a fever dream, as my brother and I quickly adjusted to survival mode as our parents relentlessly rotated in and out of the hospital. We were so excited to have a baby at home to cuddle and play with. While we still get lots of cuddles with Catherine, our family was thrown into an unexpected journey of countless doctor appointments, round-the-clock therapy and medical equipment all over the house, with no time for much else. My brother and I were instantly placed on an accelerated curve to independence while our parents tended to Catherine, who still needs 24/7 care to this day.”

Families like the Reeds often are exhausted, isolated and misunderstood. When a beloved child is born with the demands of constant, intensive

Filmmakers Tom and Amanda Dyer with Catherine Reed at the premiere of “Unseen: Caregiver’s Documentary,” released last year to create awareness of the need for pediatric respite.

care, challenges abound for all family members.

It’s a big endeavor, but the invitation to join the team to build Life House Atlanta is open to all. The key goals for this year are:

• Raise funds toward the $10 million goal for the startup and firstyear budget, to create a physical Life House Atlanta home, with rooms for individual children, family suites, gardens, therapy areas and more.

• Build key referral partners.

• Seek donation of land/building to establish the home.

• Generate awareness with the goal of raising funds and attracting financial, medical and community partners.

“The day that Life House Atlanta opens its doors will be one of the happiest days for our family,” Mary Cota Reed said. “We will be reassured that Catherine is in the best of hands, while we take a much-needed respite from the relentless demands of caregiving day and night. We will not have to worry about availability, last-minute cancellations, tardiness and other issues that often arise with home health care. Life House Atlanta is not just about giving my husband and me an opportunity to take a vacation, it is also about enabling us to take care of ourselves. Annual medical and dental checkups are almost impossible to accomplish as we juggle our jobs and full-time caregiving. Life House will enable every member of our family to be healthier, physically and mentally.”

Life House Atlanta is on its way to making this dream a reality. For more information, visit lifehouseatlanta.org, email lifehouseatlanta@gmail.com or call 770-713-5206. The nonprofit’s Let’s Build a House fundraising breakfast is set for Sept. 28 at the Cherokee Town Club on West Paces Ferry Road in Atlanta. Complete details will be posted soon on the website.

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.

The 2023 Burpee Beer Mile, a day of fitness, fun and brews, raised $2,000 for Life House Atlanta. From left, Cameron Darweesh of Community Assistance Center of Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, Joy Sandoz of Alloy Fitness, Mary Cota Reed of Life House Atlanta, and Rami Odeh and Matthew Sandoz of Alloy Fitness.

Catherine represents Life House Atlanta at the 2023 Burpee Beer Mile fundraising event in Sandy Springs.

Rob Reed carries his daughter Catherine in a We Carry Kevan backpack.

Get Creative With Combinations for Fillings

BY TIFFANY HUGHES

There is nothing better than biting into a crunchy taco filled with delicious ground beef or a soft tortilla with grilled chicken, blackened fish or spicy shrimp and crunchy slaw. The wonderful thing about tacos is you can fill them with virtually anything, and they still will be satisfying. Tortillas are a great vessel for a variety of meats and veggies, and you can dress them up or down or even eat them on the go.

Tacos need three components — a filling (meat, veggies, cheese), something crunchy (veggies, hard tortilla shell) and a topping (sauce, fresh herbs, cheese). You can make a multitude of combinations with these. The basic ground beef with shredded lettuce, taco sauce and cheese in a crunchy shell is always satisfying, but if you’d like to change it up, you’ve got tons of options. For instance, try using precooked pieces of steak and serve with sliced bell peppers and chopped onions cooked together in a skillet with oil and garlic salt (and any other seasonings you like). Top with feta or shredded Monterey Jack. Montreal Steak Seasoning is great to use on any type of beef in a taco. Cheeseburger tacos can be created with cooked ground beef (seasoned just like your burgers), shredded lettuce, mustard/mayonnaise, chopped onions and shredded cheddar cheese. The sky’s the limit for burger-type tacos.

Lots of different types of pork are great in tacos. Got leftover barbecue? Throw it in a flour tortilla with some coleslaw (try combining a bag of coleslaw mix with your favorite flavor of barbecue sauce — just enough to moisten it). Another idea is season the pork with Asian ginger salad dressing in a slow cooker, the oven or an air fryer. Place a 3-pound pork loin in a baking pan or slow cooker, season with salt and pepper, then add enough Asian ginger salad dressing to moisten the top and cover the bottom of the pan. If cooking in the oven, bake at 350 degrees, covered. If cooking in an air fryer, use the same temperature, but turn the meat every so often. When golden brown with an internal temperature of 160 degrees, remove and let rest for 5 minutes before shredding. Throw it into a flour tortilla with some kimchi coleslaw (combine one bag of coleslaw mix with desired amount of kimchi) or thinly sliced radishes.

Chicken and shrimp can be used almost interchangeably in tacos. Because both meats can trend on the dry, bland side, it’s important to season them well and use veggies to add a moisture component. For example, slice half a sweet onion into strips, and do the same with two bell peppers — one red and one yellow or orange. Cook chicken over medium heat with olive oil, garlic salt, chili powder and Old Bay seasoning or lime juice until chicken changes colors. Add pepper and onion strips and cook until peppers have begun to char and chicken is golden brown. If using shrimp, add them to the pan at the same time as the veggies.

Next, remove the mixture from the pan, then place a corn or flour tortilla in the bottom and move it around to gather up the leftover spices. Drizzle the top with a little oil, then cook until bubbles appear (about 30 seconds). Flip and cook the other side the same amount of time. Serve with your favorite cheese. Corn is good in this dish, too. Add fresh corn cut from two ears or 1 cup frozen corn, and cook it with the peppers and onions.

Tacos also are a great option for vegetarians. Grilled portobello mushrooms, cut into large slices, are exceptionally good and hold up well. Be sure to use ample seasoning (season them just like you would a hamburger) while cooking. Pickled veggies are another good taco filling. Pickled jalapenos, ginger, carrots, etc. make excellent additions when paired with something else, such as pork, chicken or even potatoes.

Sometimes, the type of tortilla shell you use dictates the fillings, due to the moisture levels. Corn tortillas are much more likely than flour ones to break apart with moist fillings. Solution: double up on the corn tortillas. They also hold up better if they have been cooked with a small amount of extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil — just enough to moisten one side. Cook until the tortilla begins to bubble up, then flip and repeat. Sprinkle lightly with salt before adding the filling.

If you’d like your tacos to be portable, choose a larger tortilla, add the filling and fold the ends over and roll it up to make a burrito. If you really want to get creative, spray the burrito with cooking spray, place broad-side down in a skillet for 1 minute, then turn and cook the other side for the same amount of time. This is a great way to use leftovers.

Tacos are a fun, easy way to serve (and eat) a variety of foods. The best part is you can slide ingredients your family might not otherwise eat (peppers, onions, veggies in general) into them. They are perfectly acceptable to serve at every meal. So don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. You’ll be glad you did.

Happy cooking!

Ginger Slaw

• 1 bag coleslaw or broccoli slaw mix

• ⅓ cup shredded carrots, if desired

• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons sugar

• 4 tablespoons Asian ginger salad dressing

Place slaw and carrots in a large bowl. In a small bowl, combine poppy seeds, salt, sugar and salad dressing. Drizzle mixture over slaw and toss to coat. Add pineapple, if desired. If using almonds, toast in a small pan with a little butter. Cook just until golden and add to slaw.

Steak and Baked Potato Tacos

• 30 tater tots, baked until crunchy

• ½ teaspoon garlic salt

• 2 cups thinly sliced steak, cooked

• 8 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 4 teaspoons thinly sliced green onions or chopped chives

• 4 flour (taco-size) tortillas

• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing, divided

• Pineapple or almonds (optional)

Place cooked tater tots in a bowl and mash to break apart. Sprinkle with garlic salt and toss to combine. Divide mixture into fourths. To prepare each taco, place ¼ potato mixture, ½ cup steak, 2 tablespoons cheese and 1 teaspoon green onions or chives on a tortilla. Top with ½ tablespoon ranch dressing and serve.

Roasted Pork Tacos

• 3-5 pounds pork loin, excess fat removed

• 3 tablespoons dry ranch

• 3 tablespoons dry chicken bouillon

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon garlic salt

• ½ cup pickle juice or apple cider vinegar

• 1 stick butter

Place pork in a slow cooker. Sprinkle top with dry seasonings. Pour pickle juice or vinegar around pork (if it does not cover the bottom of the slow cooker, add more). Top with butter, cover and cook on high for four hours. The pork is done when it reaches 160 degrees. Remove from cooker and shred.

Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and works for the Booth Western Art Museum. Contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.

North Cobb Travels the World

BY ELADIA SCOTT

After being postponed in March 2020, North Cobb High School (NCHS) welcomed the return of the International Extravaganza this spring, and the event exceeded all expectations. Students from feeder schools, such as Awtrey Middle School (AMS) and Barber Middle School, gathered in NCHS’s cafeteria to represent and display an impressive number of countries. With an astounding 61 presentations showcasing 41 countries, this special event truly was an international extravaganza.

“I was very excited to see so many participants,” AMS Assistant Principal Tonia Bailey said. “I loved that our feeders have combined efforts and worked together. I was blown away by how many presentations there were (that) night.”

Numerous students represented their countries by dressing in the culture’s traditional clothing and supplying each passerby with delicious foods. The event provided everyone with a variety of activities through a passport raffle, which challenged tourists to personalize an international passport and to “travel” to various countries to receive a sticker proving their entry. Once they filled their passport with stickers, they could enter a raffle to potentially win a prize.

“It was tremendous to see so many North Cobb feeder students, parents, teachers and administrators on campus,”

NCHS Magnet Coordinator James Auld said. “It was truly amazing seeing the cluster come together to showcase our international diversity and commitment to create culturally aware and respectful global citizens.”

Another activity provided music from around the world through performances by the choral groups from Acworth, Kennesaw, Big Shanty and Baker elementary schools. The performances featured songs from countries such as Mexico, Venezuela, Japan and Kenya. The ensembles also performed songs to celebrate unity, including “What the World Needs Now,” “Count on Me” and “Forever Friends.”

“What a wonderful way to build community and expose our younger students to their future home school,” Baker chorus teacher Fonda Riley said.

With a sizable turnout, the International Extravaganza provided participants with a chance to expand their knowledge about the world around them. In addition, the event stood out as a memorable experience, offering an amusing and pleasant environment for anyone who entered NCHS’s cafeteria that evening.

“As we transitioned from schools doing their events to beginning our multischool plan before the pandemic, our return this year was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from our community,” AMS Principal Jeffrey Crawford said. “It seems we were all ready to return to being together for this purpose, and it created a new beginning for an even bigger and better future.”

As for a return of the celebration next year, organizers have yet to confirm it. Although, with such positive feedback from the community, faculty members seem eager to improve and expand the special event.

“Helping students grow more confident and independent, discover more about themselves and their heritage, and come to understand and embrace new places and cultures are definitely the high points,” extravaganza coordinator Stephanie Sommer said. “It would be great to see even more community involvement, additional opportunities for more high school students to participate, a silent auction and, perhaps, a lounge. All that jetsetting can get exhausting.”

Eladia Scott, a rising senior at North Cobb High School, finds writing refreshing and liberating. She enjoys photography, cycling, skating and acting as part of her community.

The International Extravaganza showcased 41 countries.

Participants were invited to complete a passport showing they visited as many countries as possible and enter it in a raffle.

Cobb Photographic Society

Congratulations to everyone who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for April was “Simplicity/Minimalism,” and the guest judge was photographer Scott Johnson. The Cobb Photographic Society is a club open to photographers of all skill levels. It meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com

Monochrome

Mark Buckert - First Place (Silent Instrument)

Pat Fahey - Third Place (Black and White)

Melissa Moody - Second Place (Off to the Ocean)

Novice

Krissy Finch - First Place (Many Faces)

Ben Moravitz - First Place (Lone Gull at Sunset)

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

magazine!

Voting is open! aroundkennesawmagazine.com