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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

14 8

Contents On the Cover

38 July 2022

Features

8 Priceless Possessions

Students from two Kennesaw schools created postcards that will be launched into space and returned to them.

14 Never Too Old

The Cobb New Horizons Band offers musicians 55 and older a chance to continue performing the music they love.

38 Farm Fresh

The Kennesaw Farmers Market is a great place to buy local produce and ingredients needed for recipes shared by its vendors.

Stretch Zone

Kennesaw’s Stretch Zone studio owner, Susan Black, and manager Cole Lindner, are on the cover. Drew Brees, above, is the brand ambassador and has eight locations in Louisiana.

Pages 28 & 29

Cover photo by Red Baryl Portraits.

Turn to Pages 20-22 to see the winners! 2

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

In Every Issue 4 18 26 33 36 42 43 44 46 48 49 50 52 54

Around Kennesaw This Is Cobb Q&A - Nikki McGraw Celebrations Rob’s Rescues Local News Downtown Dining Guide Growing Gardeners School News Senior Events Library Events Community Calendar Cobb Photographic Society Directory of Advertisers

Contributors 40 41 34 24 17 10 32 24 25 36 30 44 12

Ryan Blythe

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Andrew Bramlett David Campbell Dana Dorris

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Around Kennesaw Letter From the Editor

Celebrating Independence Day every July reminds me of the battles our country has fought since our war to win our freedom from England. Because I’ve always enjoyed American history, I’ve tried to visit battlefield sites whenever possible. While living near Boston, I was able to visit the Old North Church, where the lanterns were hung to signal Paul Revere, and Boston Harbor, site of the famous tea party. I couldn’t believe I was walking on the same ground as the American patriots who started our country. I’ve seen a few major Civil War battlefields. Of course, I’ve been to Kennesaw Mountain more times than I can count, and I still think about its historical significance. The first battlefield I went to outside my home state was Gettysburg. I went there on a middle school trip, and, even then, I understood the importance of the ground on which I was standing. And I’ve visited the site of the war’s first battle — Fort Sumter in South Carolina — as well as where it ended, Appomattox Court House. But probably the most chilling sites I’ve visited were from World War II. I’ve been to Pearl Harbor twice, and knowing there were bodies still entombed in the submerged ship below us is too much to take. You can’t really fathom how many men died there until you see the 1,177 names listed on the memorial wall. It was heartbreaking. The second site was Normandy, where thousands of men dropped from the sky and stormed the beaches in a campaign to begin liberating northwest Europe. Overlooking Omaha and Utah beaches, I could imagine the chaos that must’ve taken place on that hallowed stretch of sand. How terrifying was it for paratroopers jumping into enemy territory at night or soldiers coming ashore in a hail of gunfire? The final site wasn’t an actual battlefield, but I think it affected me even more. I visited Dachau — the Nazis’ first and longest-operating concentration camp — and I hope I never again have that feeling. Seeing the conditions those prisoners were forced to live in and knowing what the ashes still visible in the crematorium meant was unbearable. Visiting all these sites has made me grateful for the life I’ve had. In this issue is the news everyone has been waiting for — the Readers’ Choice winners. Check out the top choices in each category on Pages 20-22. On Pages 8-9, read about local students who will own postcards that were sent into space, and on Pages 14-15, learn about a concert band for musicians ages 55 and older who aren’t ready to pack away their instruments. And turn to Pages 38-39 for some recipes that were shared by vendors at the Kennesaw Farmers Market. Happy reading!

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

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

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What’s Changing?

Celestial Jewelers is moving 1 mile south of its location next to the Butler Creek Kroger on Cobb Parkway in Acworth to a new site at 3150 Cobb Parkway, Suite 110, in Kennesaw, next to Zaxby’s and across from the Kennesaw Walmart. The store won’t be open to the public until the new showroom is finished in mid- to late July. For updates, visit www.celestialjeweler.com or call/text 770-627-4468.

Dedications

The Save Acworth History Foundation and the city of Acworth recently dedicated the historic marker erected at the corner of Main and Lemon streets to commemorate the Old Acworth Hotel. Attending the dedication ceremony were, from left, Moose McCray, Mack Turner, Alderman Tim Richardson, Rick and Becca Kienel.

On June 22, the Save Acworth History Foundation and the city of Acworth dedicated the historic marker erected on Main Street across from Pearl’s Spa and Picnic Market and Mercantile to commemorate Day’s Chevrolet. Attending the ceremony were members of the Day and Diemer families.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Around Kennesaw, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a community magazine with 17,000 free copies distributed monthly. Approximately 16,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 400 are placed in racks in the community. Around Kennesaw welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Kennesaw, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Kennesaw is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright 2022. Volume 1, Issue 12

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‘Over the Moon’ Students from two local schools created postcards that will be launched into space BY DONNA HARRIS

Students at two Kennesaw schools might never own a moon rock, but they are expecting to possess the next best thing — an item that’s been flown into space and back. Blue Origin, an aerospace manufacturer and spaceflight services provider based in Kent, Washington, started Club for the Future in 2019 to inspire younger generations to envision a future life in space. As part of the program, students are invited to participate in Postcards to Space, where they draw or write a message on a postcard that will be launched on one of Blue’s future New Shepard missions, stamped with “Flown to Space” and returned to them. In the spring, former Kennesaw resident Ronnie Sullivan, a senior design engineer at Blue’s Florida facility, asked his wife, Lisa Sullivan, and sister, Tiffany Stevens, to have their classes at Northwest Classical Academy (NCA) and North Cobb Christian School (NCCS), respectively, create postcards to help meet the goal

of sending 1 million cards into space. “I think this is a wonderful opportunity to engage the younger generation and spark interest in our space program,” Ronnie said. “My interest in aerospace was launched by my fourth-grade class trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Later, this desire was solidified when my sister, who, at the time, was a newspaper reporter, took me along for an interview that she was conducting for a story about Skylab astronaut Edward Gibson. Therefore, I am very passionate about making sure that the torch is passed to our younger generation. Who knows how far that generation will go toward our goal of ‘millions of people living and working in space?’” He soon found he isn’t the only one who’s fascinated by space — there was more interest in the program than just his wife’s first-grade class and his sister’s pre-K4 class. All 75 first-graders, plus five teachers, at NCA participated, and he received

Lydia Greer and Elliot Williams, pre-K4 students at North Cobb Christian School. 8

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

First-graders in Lisa Sullivan’s class at Northwest

roughly 375 postcards from students and teachers in pre-K3 through fourth grade at NCCS. Most of the cards featured rockets, planets and star-filled skies, and since Lisa’s class had just completed a unit on planets and the moon’s phases, several students drew a rocket headed to the moon. “The response was incredible,” Ronnie said. “I had the opportunity to look at each postcard and was really impressed by the enthusiasm and talent shown by these students. Also, I am very excited for the students because when I was their age, items that had been to space were only in museums. I still cherish the first item that I acquired that had been to space and back.” The students are stoked as well about possessing something that will have left Earth’s atmosphere and returned home. “They were over the moon,” Lisa said. “They continually asked when the postcards would cross the Karman

t Classical Academy show off their postcard creations.

Line [which represents the boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space] and come back to them.” Tiffany said her preschoolers “did not think it was possible for them to ever own something that has been flown in space.” “I have several students in my class who love space shuttles and rockets and are always asking questions about space, so we watched several of Blue Origin’s launches while in class,” she said. “When the opportunity presented itself, the kids were so excited about having a postcard sent to space.” Initially, Tiffany said she was going to get just her class to create the cards but decided to include the other K4 class “so we could enjoy doing the project as a grade level.” “When I ran the idea by my principal, she was so excited, she asked if we could get enough cards for the entire lower school, so all grade levels from K3 to fourth grade were able to participate,” she said, noting teachers

were just as excited as the kids. “Twenty-one classes participated.” Lisa said space and rocketry have “always been exciting for students,” and she even developed a love for rockets after marrying an aerospace engineer. “I want to share this with my students,” she said. “They love learning about the unknown. In my classroom … I have True Story Friday. I often use these stories to teach a life lesson or teach something cool that may not be included in the curriculum. With ‘Mr. Ronnie’ working at Blue Origin, it just created a perfect opportunity for me to integrate both.” The teachers said they hope the project has ignited their students’ curiosity about space since exploring it appears to be an integral part of the future. “This opened up the door to many classroom discussions about space travel and how it is possible,” Tiffany said. “Several students said they wanted to go into space when

they grow up. I told them they are watching history, and with the advancements in technology, going to space is a real possibility for them when they are older.” Lisa said it’s “really important to spark an interest” in space in students’ minds at an early age. “Projects like Club for the Future show children that they can make a difference,” she said. “They teach there are no goals in life that are out of reach. This project has taught my firstgraders to reach for the stars, follow their dreams.” She added she hopes she’s stirred up the same excitement about aerospace in her students that her husband’s teacher stirred up in him. As for when students will receive their piece of history, Ronnie said the high volume of postcards received makes it impossible for Club for the Future to pinpoint a return date, but “just know that our team works very hard to get these returned.” AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

A Word From

Mayor Derek Easterling

ello, Kennesaw! Welcome to summer! I pray everyone is enjoying some time traveling to visit family and friends, lounging by the pool, hiking a mountain trail or finding peace in an awesome staycation. Our city continues to grow. We are bringing in new businesses and residents with opportunities to live, work and play. You might have noticed we are moving forward with the amphitheater construction at Depot Park, in addition to all the developments happening in the city. We have allocated the monies and secured the team to begin the process leading to construction. Related to the Depot Park amphitheater, I have a simple question for you. Who would you like to see headline our first concert? Should it be a weekend festival with multiple performers or something smaller? At the beginning of Memorial Day weekend, Dallas and Kincaid from New Country 101.5 featured the city of Kennesaw in their summer series program, “Your Town Project,” and broadcasted live from Main Street. This was a super fun event that featured some of our local businesses, city staff and community partners like Kennesaw State University. Of course, Dallas was thrilled to spend time with Scrappy the Owl. Just a short drive from our downtown, “A Garden With Wings,” a popular exhibit at Smith-Gilbert Gardens featuring a kid-friendly pollinator garden and a 1,500-square-foot butterfly house, opened July 1 for the season. Visitors to the pollinator garden will see an inspiring collection of annuals, perennials

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

and flowering shrubs, which attract and support native pollinators like bumblebees, hummingbirds and butterflies. The expanded butterfly house offers an up-close experience with butterflies, plus the opportunity to see all stages of their life cycle. Visitors will see host plants that serve as food sources for a wide variety of caterpillars. The exhibit is included with garden admission and runs through July. If you are looking for something different to do this summer, visit the gardens. Most of the walking trails/paths are shaded. By the time you read this article, our Independence Day celebration will have happened already. Again, I am going to ask for your comments/input so we may serve you better (deasterling@kennesaw-ga. gov). How would you rate the performances? Do you have anyone special you want to see perform next year? What can we do differently to make it more enjoyable for you and your family? Remember, this is our town, and it is up to us to define who we are and what we stand for. Take time this month to reflect on our independence and the freedoms we enjoy, both as a nation and as an individual. Be grateful for what we have, and be willing to stand up for what you believe in. Together, we are creating the future of Kennesaw. Be blessed! Derek Easterling has served as Kennesaw’s mayor since 2016. He is dedicated to serving his community to the highest level possible.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Follow Intersection Laws for Safer Driving BY BILL WESTENBERGER

Roadway dangers are all around us. Over the recent Memorial Day holiday, the Georgia Department of Public Safety reported 12 traffic fatalities across the state. The Kennesaw Police Department, along with other agencies, always is working to bring awareness of and voluntary compliance with the rules of the road. We recognize the majority of accidents truly are accidental. Most drivers don’t try to ruin their travel plans by running into another vehicle. Even though safety equipment on vehicles continues to improve, roadways have become increasingly dangerous. We easily can look to many contributing factors, such as speed and distracted driving, as the root causes of dangerous roads. Many times, however, it is a lack of understanding of the traffic laws that can create havoc. Let’s look at two laws regarding intersections. The first law concerns creating obstructions in intersections. Many times, when there is stopped traffic ahead, but the traffic signal is green, drivers will continue to enter the intersection. On the surface, it seems safe and legal. However, too many times, the light will change while vehicles are obstructing the intersection and blocking other vehicles’ paths. Georgia Code § 40-6-205 states, “No driver shall enter an intersection unless there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection to accommodate the vehicle he is operating without 12

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Failure to obey intersection laws, such as yielding the right of way, can lead to numerous accidents.

obstructing the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians. …” Another common hazard occurs when a driver on a multi-lane road comes to an intersection and wants to turn left onto a two-lane road. Many times, the left-turning driver will see an approaching vehicle turning right and expects that driver to yield. Georgia Code § 40-6-71 states, “The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left within an intersection or into an alley, private road or driveway shall yield the right of way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.” Although many of us took driver’s training and often heard the phrase “defensive driving,”

we have forgotten what that really means. Too many times, driving becomes hurried and aggressive. Even when there’s not an emergency or immediate need, we seem to be in a hurry to cram as much as possible into each minute. Even in cases where there isn’t injury, nothing will slow us down more than accidents — especially when it’s our vehicle involved. Let’s be cautious and controlled in our driving; we really need to arrive safely. We don’t want you to be the next statistic. Until next time, stay safe.

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

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Never Too Old

c i s u M y a l to P BY NICOLE SMITH

Bottom left, Director Dr. Charles R. Jackson. Top, trumpet players John Rocker, left, and Richard Selby perform at a Memorial Day concert in Woodstock.

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

What do Mariah Carey’s Christmas album, the soundtrack from “Frozen” and the Blues Brothers have in common? They are just a small part of the musical offerings from the Cobb New Horizons Band (CNHB), a group that offers seniors ages 50 and older who have musical instrument experience the opportunity to join an actively performing concert band. The ensemble is a member of the New Horizons International Music Association, a movement started by Dr. Roy Ernst in 1991 that now has a network of more than 10,000 participants in more than 230 bands all around the world. Ernst, whose motto is “Your best is good enough,” encourages a supportive and noncompetitive environment for instruction. “My philosophy was that anyone can learn to play music at a level that will bring a sense of accomplishment and the ability to perform in a group,” he said. CNHB’s music director, Dr. Charles R. Jackson, shared the background of this talented group. "The band was started in 2005 under the direction of Marla Feeney with 10 members,” he said. “After her two years with the band, she was followed by Director George Broom, who directed the band until 2016.” Jackson, a part-time assistant music professor at Kennesaw State University, was appointed director in April 2016. He retired in 2013 after 34 years as a public school band director in Cobb County, and a band member encouraged him to audition for the music director position after Broom announced he was retiring. The Cobb New Horizons Band is a high-performing ensemble. Many of the members have played throughout their lives in high school, college or military bands, and some were music teachers or professional players. The 98-member symphonic band typically plays larger events, such as the annual Sunset Symphony in downtown Woodstock, which draws thousands of people, and performs roughly 10-20 concerts per year. It also has an affiliate group known as the Memory Lane Jazz Ensemble, directed by Carl Merwin. This band has about 20 members and plays at smaller venues that cannot accommodate the larger symphonic band, such as senior centers.

French horn players, from left, Bill Mengel, Kristina Hampton, Debbie Davies and John Mote were among the band members who performed in Woodstock on Memorial Day.

Before Jackson’s leadership, the band was not performing in the public schools, but because he has connections in the district, the band has added elementary, middle and high schools to its events calendar. An important part of the band’s mission is to let children know they can start playing an instrument at a young age and continue to play their whole lives. The language of music surpasses age limits. Band members are able to play any genre of music, and the ensemble tailors its programs to its audience. If it is performing for elementary schools, it has fun pieces, such as Disney soundtracks. If performing for older students, it plays popular video game scores. At concerts for more advanced students and professional musicians, it has a long list of band standards from throughout history. The group’s extensive repertoire also includes popular Christmas favorites, music from around the world, swing band pieces from the ’30s and ’40s and even Broadway tunes. The musicians are able to play whatever is needed, and if they do not have the music available, they use their funds to obtain it. When asked to recall a memorable story about the band, Jackson reminisced about Boyd McKeown, a beloved charter member who passed away in April 2018. McKeown, who was the band’s oldest member at 93, was instrumental in making Cobb County’s school band program what it is today, and many of the CNHB members were his students when they were in school. McKeown played trombone in the U.S. Army Air Corps band during World War II and later completed his musical education degree. He was the band director at Marietta High School and coordinator of instrumental music for Cobb County Schools and served as executive

Percussionists, from left, Jeannie Clark, Jim Littlefield and John Kreimer are ready to perform.

director of the Georgia Music Educators Association after he retired. He knew his health was failing, so he began planning his own memorial concert with the band. A month after he passed away, CNHB played that concert. It was a beautiful celebration of music and his legacy. The band welcomes donations to enable it to continue gracing the community with its talents. It charges an honorarium for its performances to help cover expenses, such as weekly practice space rental fees at Kennesaw State, music purchases and an insurance policy for members and their instruments. Members pay a $15 a month membership fee, and there are no term limits to membership. Those with prior music experience who want to join the band can play for one month at no cost to see if it is a good fit before becoming a full member. For musicians who haven't played for many years, Jackson can provide less-demanding music until they build up their skills, or he can create a part for them, based on the score the band is playing, that fits their performance level. For more information or to make a donation, visit https://cobbnewhorizonsband.com. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

TEXT BOX

InauguralTEXT BOX KBA Golf 03 Tournament

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PHOTOS BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS

UPCOMING EVENTS

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July 12 KBA Luncheon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Recreation Center at Adams Park 2737 Watts Drive

July 15

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Super Women’s Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Copeland’s 1142 Barrett Parkway

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July 19 Alive After Five

5:30-7 p.m. Pisano’s 2740 Summers St.

Golf carts were ready and waiting for golfers to use.

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03 Above, from left, Bill Kenney, Chuck Burge, Dana Dorris, Stormi and Robert Kenney enjoy the fellowship of the tournament. Support of sponsors added to the event’s success.

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July 26 Wake Up KBA

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Join the KBA by visiting www.kennesawbusiness.org.

From left, Kristina Bouterse from Realty One Group, Dana Dorris from Risk & Insurance Consultants of North Georgia and Alicia Vines Todisco from Ace Handyman Services celebrate a successful golf tournament.

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Building Strong Teams Is Vital for Business Success BY DANA DORRIS

Promises are a powerful thing. They give us hope. From a business perspective, promises are more important than ever because a broken promise represents a breach of trust and can lead to unhappy customers, a damaged reputation, reduced revenue and negative reviews. As an insurance agent, my business revolves around the power of a promise. Consumers count on their home, auto and life insurance companies to help them when things go wrong, and me, as their agent, to assist them along the way. My promise is a commitment to action that is meaningful and valuable to my clients. As businesses consider the promises and commitments they are making to their clients, they must think about the standard of behavior for their organization and how to create a customer experience that will set them apart from competitors. A brand promise is defined as a value or experience a company’s customer can expect to receive every single time he or she interacts with that company. The more a company can deliver on that promise, the stronger the brand value will be in the mind of customers and employees. This takes careful consideration, courage and creativity. The bolder and clearer, the better. For example, BMW’s “The Ultimate Driving Machine” is a bold statement. Not only does it aim to produce an efficient and elegant vehicle, its brand promise states this with confidence. The best brand promises are simple and consistent and focus on a compelling, differentiating element of the customer experience. Trust is at the heart of every good customer experience, but how do you create trust and deliver on the promise of your brand? The simple answer is you must align with who you really are and define how you want to be perceived. The customer expectation should be codified in a one- or two-line sentence and should communicate what the client can expect when he or she does business with you. Once you have identified your brand promise, you must organize your business based on this promise. Take time to think about your customer touch points. For my business, we collaborate as a team and give thought to what information our clients need and what will help them do business with us. Then we think about how the process will make the client feel. It is important to our team that our clients feel special and valued – because they are. Consistency in messaging, process and actions are the keys to successful branding. The way your organization delivers messages that line up with its core values, followed by its actions, will determine whether your client is confident you will keep your promises. When a brand follows through on its promises, the result is a loyal and happy customer base that will be ready to advocate for the business and help it grow. A brand and a promise go hand in hand, and a logo is just a graphic unless and until there is a meaningful promise behind it — a brand promise. Dana Dorris is the first two-time female president of the Kennesaw Business Association. She is an independent insurance agent and senior partner with Risk & Insurance Consultants of North Georgia.

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This Is Cobb Kennesaw Mountain’s Ross Lives Out Dream SUBMITTED BY COBB SCHOOLS

From the time she was 6 years old, Wendy Ross knew she wanted to be a teacher. Her teachers were her inspiration — the inspiration she aims to be for her students at Kennesaw Mountain High School. Ross has been living her dream in the classroom for 25 years. “I got into education because of my teachers,” she said. “When I was in, I’ll say, first grade, that’s when I just fell in love with my teacher, and I wanted to be just like her. I wanted to have the power to impact kids because she had such a great impact on me.” Another teacher helped the Columbus, Georgia, native discover her calling to teach deaf and hardof-hearing (DHH) students, which has been her role in the Cobb County schools for 14 years and at Kennesaw Mountain for almost a decade. “I learned sign language when I was in high school, and I listened to my sign language teacher talk about her deaf son and how he was not able to read on grade level,” she said. “He was struggling.” That story spurred her to channel her love of reading, writing and sign language into preventing DHH students from falling behind. “She’s a fantastic teacher because she’s always trying to help us achieve our goals and succeed and to learn new things,” KMHS sophomore Jeremiah said. Jeremiah credits Ross for helping him improve his vocabulary and prepare for a recent districtwide DHH Oratorical Contest, which he won. He’s also learned to communicate more clearly as the only deaf person in his family. But Ross’ impact on him doesn’t stop there. “She helps me get caught up on my work and study skills, really helps me to stay caught up with my studies,” he said. “She helps me figure out how 18

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Teacher Wendy Ross, center, loves working with her deaf and hard-of-hearing students, from left, Brendan Ashton, Alejandro Pedro, Yatzel Acosta Federico, Jeremiah JacksonGillihan and Damiyon Richard, at Kennesaw Mountain High School.

to set up interpreting services and contact others for various requests.” Jeremiah’s classmate Alejandro, whom Ross first taught in third grade, also points to his teacher’s bubbly personality, which comforts and motivates students. “Mrs. Ross helps you when she smiles,” he said. “If I’m feeling stressed or maybe I’m having a bad day, Mrs. Ross always makes me feel better just by her pleasant expression.” Seeing how Alejandro has progressed since elementary school is one of Ross’ great joys. “To see all the work that all of his teachers have done, and now here’s the result — a wonderful, wonderful person,” she said. “So that’s why I do it.” Alejandro watches how Ross — who lives in Cartersville with her husband, Quincy, and has two stepsons, Denirio and Jaden — interacts with others and aspires to be more like her. She’s the “fantastic” teacher who helps him understand the difference between nouns, verbs and adjectives and makes him feel more comfortable at school. “It’s amazing being in this class,”

he said. “I feel like I’m really making progress and that I’m able to practice in our class.” Ross’ students aren’t the only ones who have recognized how hard she works to advocate and support those in her class. Metro Atlanta viewers recently voted her the winner of the High 5 for Teachers contest, sponsored by FOX 5 and Montlick and Associates. She won $2,500 to benefit KMHS and received $500 when she initially was named a finalist. Whether they’re in the American Sign Language class, after-school club or DHH program, some KMHS students are being inspired to follow in Ross’ footsteps. “One of the students who graduated from the deaf and hard-of-hearing program here at Kennesaw Mountain is actually coming to be a deaf and hard-of-hearing teacher here next year,” Ross said. Someday, those former studentsturned-educators might have a student thank them for being a fantastic teacher who never gives up. That’s precisely how Ross’ students describe her and why she has no plans to stop living out her dream as a teacher.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

READERS’

CHOICE 2022

CONGRATULATIONS

IT ’S TIME TO

! e t a r Cele b FOOD, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

TO THE WINNERS IN THE 30144 AND 30152 ZIP CODES

AMERICAN RESTAURANT Winner: Owlz Pub

CATERING

We are excited to celebrate you and the contributions you make to our community. We know you’re proud and ready to announce your success! If you won your category, we have prepared a few items to help you celebrate:

ASIAN RESTAURANT Winner: Kennesaw Thai Cuisine

COFFEE SHOP Winner: Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery

Second Place: Paul’s Pot Pies Runner Up: Trackside Grill

Second Place: Bangkok Cabin Runner Up: Lucky China

Winner: Eatin’ Fresh Kennesaw Second Place: JimPa’s Catering Runner Up: Chick-fil-A - Cobb Avenue

Second Place: Lazy Labrador Coffee House Runner Up: Kennesaw Coffee Co.

BAKERY Winner: Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery

ENTERTAINMENT - ART STUDIO/GALLERY Winner: The Art Station - Big Shanty

• Window cling

Second Place: Nothing Bundt Cakes Runner Up: Stilesboro Biscuits

• Digital graphics to post on your website, Facebook page or other social media outlets.

BARBECUE RESTAURANT Winner: Big Shanty Smokehouse

ENTERTAINMENT - COMMUNITY FESTIVAL, EVENT OR VENUE Winner: Big Shanty Festival

• Certificate

To receive these items, email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com with the following information: • Business name and mailing address • Contact person’s email address and phone number

It’s essential for us to have your contact information so we can make sure you have all you need to celebrate properly. Another way to share your good news — and thank the community for voting for you — is through a Thank You ad. For more information on ads, email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Congratulations! 20

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Second Place: The Nest Kennesaw Runner Up: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

Second Place (Tied): Ann’s Studio and Zuckerman Museum of Art

Second Place: Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival Runner Up: Governors Gun Club

BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENT Winner: Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery

ENTERTAINMENT - DANCE STUDIO Winner: Dynamite Dance Factory

BREWERY/DISTILLERY Winner: Horned Owl Brewing

ENTERTAINMENT - EQUESTRIAN Winner: Lost Mountain Stables

Second Place: Dry County Brewing Company Runner Up: Lazy Guy Distillery

Second Place: Kennesaw State University Runners Up (Tied): Proctor Creek Farm and Westbrooke Farm

BRUNCH RESTAURANT Winner: First Watch

ENTERTAINMENT - GOLF COURSE/CLUB Winner: Pinetree Country Club

Second Place: First Watch Runner Up: Flying Biscuit Cafe

Second Place (Tied): Elevation Chophouse & Skybar and Trackside Grill

BURGER RESTAURANT Winner: BurgerFi

Second Place: Owlz Pub Runner Up: Miller’s Ale House

Second Place: Atlanta Academy of Ballet and Dance Runner Up: great gig DANCE co.

Second Place: Marietta Country Club

ENTERTAINMENT - GYMNASTICS/CHEER CENTER Winner: Kennesaw Parks & Recreation Second Place: Gymnastics Academy of Atlanta Runner Up: Stingray Allstars Cheer - North Gym

FINE DINING RESTAURANT Winner: Caper’s Restaurant & Bar Second Place: Elevation Chophouse & Skybar Runner Up: Trackside Grill

ITALIAN RESTAURANT Winner: Provino’s Italian Restaurant Second Place: Rosaria’s Italian Kitchen Runner Up: Italia Mediterranean Grill

KID FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Second Place: Chick-fil-A - Cobb Avenue Runner Up: Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

MEXICAN RESTAURANT Winner: La Bamba Mexican Bar & Grill Second Place: El Nopal Mexican Restaurant Runner Up: Laredos Mexican Bar and Grill Kennesaw South

PIZZERIA Winner: Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

AUTO - TIRE SALES & SERVICE Winner: Kennesaw Tire

Second Place: Discount Tire Runner Up: D.W. Campbell Tire & Auto Service

PERSONAL SERVICES - HAIR SALON Winner: Patricia Hill Color Studio

FAMILY SERVICES - ACTIVE ADULT RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY Winner: Overture Barrett

PERSONAL SERVICES - NAIL SALON Winner: Nail Palace

Second Place (Tied): Best Care Cleaners and Q Cleaners

Second Place: Serenade by Windsong Runners Up (Tied): Falls Crest and Highland Court Senior Residences

FAMILY SERVICES - ADULT DAY CARE/RESPITE Winner: Daybreak Village Assisted Living Second Place: Gaines Park Senior Living Runner Up: Kennesaw Place

FAMILY SERVICES - ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE FACILITY Winner: Canterfield of Kennesaw

Second Place: Daybreak Village Assisted Living Runners Up (Tied): Gaines Park Senior Living and Northstar Place

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Winner: Capers Restaurant and Bar

FAMILY SERVICES - DAY CARE & PRESCHOOL Winner: Primrose School of Bells Ferry

WINGS Winner: Owlz Pub

FAMILY SERVICES - PRESCHOOL Winner: Primrose School of Bells Ferry

Second Place: The Nest Kennesaw Runner Up: Olde Towne Tavern & Grille

GOODS & SERVICES AUTO - AUTOMOBILE SALES Winner: Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC Second Place: CarMax Runner Up: Cobb County Toyota

AUTO - CAR WASH Winner: Captain Kleen Speed Wash Second Place: Tidal Wave Auto Spa Runner Up: Scrubhub

AUTO - GENERAL AUTOMOBILE SERVICE Winner: Kennesaw Auto Center Second Place: Blackmon Automotive Runner Up: K M Auto Care Inc.

Runner Up: Massage Now!

DRY CLEANERS Winner: Mik Cleaners

Second Place: Ralph’s Zucca Pizza Runner Up: Vesuvio Pizzeria Napoletana

Second Place: JimPa’s Catering Runner Up: Oyster Cafe

PERSONAL SERVICES - DAY SPA Winners (Tied): Jéa Salon and Spa and LaVida Massage

Second Place: Primrose School of Kennesaw North Runner Up: First Baptist Christian School

Second Place: First Baptist Christian School Runner Up: Princeton Preparatory Schools

FAMILY SERVICES - PRIVATE SCHOOL Winner: Mount Paran Christian School

Second Place: First Baptist Christian School Runner Up: St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School

FITNESS/HEALTH CLUB Winner: Burn Boot Camp

Second Place: CrossFit Koinonia Runner Up: Pure Barre

FUNERAL HOME Winner: Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home & Memorial Park PERSONAL SERVICES - BARBER Winner: Crazy Dave’s Hair Studio Second Place: Big Shanty Barber Shop Runners Up (Tied): Floyd’s Barbershop of Kennesaw and Kennesaw Barber Shop

Second Place: Pomme Salon Runner Up: Medalyn Salon & MedSpa

Second Place: Dream Nails Runner Up: GoldenOne Nail Lounge

PET - BOARDING & SITTING Winner: Creekside Pet Hotel

Second Place: Kennesaw Mountain Animal Hospital Runner Up: Love Bugs Pet Sitting

PET - GROOMING Winner: Befur and After

Second Place: Bubble Tubs for Dogs Runner Up: Creekside Pet Hotel

TRAVEL AGENCY Winner: Celtic Hearts Travel

Second Place: Dancing Moon Travel Runner Up: His Majesty Coach

HOME & GARDEN CLEANING Winner: PCT Clean

Second Place: OCP Clean Runner Up: Maid in America Cleaning Services

HOME IMPROVEMENT/REMODELING Winner: CWG Construction

Second Place: All Roof Solutions Runner Up: TMG Pressure Washing & Softwash

INTERIOR DESIGN Winner: Outrageous Interiors & Design Second Place: House Of Design [Interiors + Staging] Runner Up: Interior Ink

LANDSCAPING/LAWN SERVICE Winner: Autumn Landscape Company

Second Place: Stovall and Company Runner Up: Russo Landscapes

Continued on next page. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

PAINTER Winner: Painting by Trees Second Place: Hector’s Painting Runner Up: Ben’s Pro Painting

PEST CONTROL Winners (Tied): Any Pest - Chastain Road and Arrow Exterminators Runner Up: Legacy Pest Control

PLUMBER Winner: Superior Plumbing Services Second Place: Pell Plumbing Co. Runner Up: Sundial Plumbing

MEDICAL CHIROPRACTOR Winner: Discover Integrated Health Second Place: Eaton Chiropractic Runner Up: Lake Pointe Wellness Center

COUNSELING Winner: Thrive Counseling Center

Second Place: Monarch Counseling Runners Up (Tied): LifeStance Health and Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Kennesaw

DENTIST Winner: Russell G. Anderson Jr. DMD, PC Second Place: Kennesaw Mountain Dental Associates Runner Up: Baker Road Dental Care

GENERAL PRACTITIONER Winner: Dr. Amy Varner

Second Place: Dr. Gregory J. Matechak & Kennesaw Mountain Medical Group Runner Up: Dr. Ramona R. Hunt-Erwin

OBSTETRICIAN/GYNECOLOGIST Winner: Kennesaw Gynecology

Second Place (Tied): Kaiser Permanente Townpark and Khatami Mojgan MD & Georgia Gynecology

OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST Winner: Hester Eye Associates PC

Second Place (Tied): Hobson Eye Associates and Thomas Eye Group - Kennesaw Office

ORTHODONTIST Winner: OrthoZone

Second Place: Depew Orthodontics Runner Up: Legacy Orthodontics

PEDIATRIC DENTIST Winners (Tied): Childrens Dentistry of West Cobb, Legacy Pediatric Dentistry Imagix Dental and Shoemaker Pediatric Dentistry 22

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

PEDIATRICIAN Winner: Kennesaw Pediatrics

Second Place: East Cobb Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Runner Up: Candace Holladay, MD

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Winner: PT Solutions of Jiles Road

Second Place: BenchMark Physical Therapy Wade Green Runner Up: Wellstar OrthoSport - Acworth Due West

VETERINARIAN Winner: Shiloh Veterinary Hospital

Second Place: Kennesaw Mountain Veterinary Services Runner Up: North Cobb Animal Hospital

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ACCOUNTANT Winner: Ratliff & Associates CPAs Second Place: Legacy Accounting and Tax Services Runner Up: Zack Carnes, CPA, CFP

ATTORNEY Winner: Williams Elleby

Second Place: Piedmont Injury Law Runner Up: Crane Elder Law Firm

BANK/CREDIT UNION Winner: Credit Union of Georgia Jiles Road

Second Place: LGE Community Credit Union Runner Up: Truist - Cobb Parkway NW

BUSINESS SUPPORT (IT/WEB SUPPORT/ DIGITAL MARKETING) Winner: Computers R Us

Second Place: ServIT Runner Up: Southeastern Computer Associates

INSURANCE Winner: Dickerson Agency

Second Place: Farmers Insurance - The Hathaway Agency Runner Up: Peck Insurance Agency

INVESTMENT FIRM/FINANCIAL ADVISOR Winner: LGE Community Credit Union

Second Place: David Chabucos - Edward Jones Runners Up (Tied): Synergy Wealth Management and Way Financial Group

MORTGAGE LENDER Winner: Credit Union of Georgia Jiles Road

Second Place: Mike Russo Team - MortgageRight Runners Up (Tied): Josh Dollar - Atlantic Bay Mortgage and US Mortgage Corp.

REALTOR Winner: High Caliber Realty

Second Place: The Teena Regan Team/22One Realty Runner Up: Showhomes of Cobb Home Staging

SHOPPING ANIMAL/PET SUPPLIES Winner: The Good Dog Shoppe

Second Place: Cole’s Wild Bird Products Runner Up: Top Dogs Pet Boutique

BOUTIQUE/CLOTHING Winner: Turquoise Otter

Second Place: Ecologie Resale & Vintage Runner Up: Adore Bridal Boutique

FLORIST Winner: Faith Designs Florist Second Place: Kennesaw Florist Runner Up: The Flower Studio 22

GIFTS/HOME DECOR Winner: Turquoise Otter

Second Place: Little Red Bird Gifts Runner Up: Tucci’s Unique Furnishings and Accessories

JEWELER Winner: Prospector’s Pouch Second Place: The Jewelsmith Runner Up: Jewelry by Dana

LIQUOR STORE Winner: Wade Green Bottle Shop Second Place: Kings Liquor Runner Up: Elite Liquor & Wine

SPECIALTY FOODS/NUTRITION Winner: M y Shibboleth Lifestyle

Second Place: Shakespeare The Protein House Runner Up: Herbal Intentions

THRIFT STORE Winner: St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store Kennesaw Second Place: Kid to Kid Runner Up: Uptown Cheapskate

Joel Williams

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Having an ‘I Think We Can’ Attitude BY DAVID CAMPBELL

Do you remember “The Little Engine That Could?” As I understand it, the first record of the story is from a sermon. Did you know that? The Rev. Charles S. Wing was preaching to his church in Brooklyn on April 8, 1906. He told the story of a train that needed to be pulled up a hill. Other engines said “No,” so the little engine was asked. She accepted the challenge and repeated all the way up the hill, “I think I can! I think I can! I think I can!” And if you’ve read the story, you know she is successful. It is a great story about faith and optimism, but it also speaks to the importance of our words. The little engine spoke out loud what she believed. The Apostle Paul knew the importance of our words. In many of his letters, he advised individuals, such as Timothy, as well as most congregations to be careful how they spoke to one another. His view on this might be summed up best in what he said to the church at Ephesus, “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). A few verses later, in verse 29, he says, “Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.” That is worth reading again. “Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building

up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.” This is a powerful verse. How we need to hear it these days! Wouldn’t you like to be remembered as one who spoke like this? The little engine saying “I think I can” helped get the train over the hill. She made the difference in whether the train achieved its task and got where it was supposed to go. Paul said it is similar for us. We are called to “only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.” When we say what is helpful, we are on the way to meeting our goal. We are like the little engine. Can we learn to speak like this? Can we do it? “I think we can, I think we can, I think we can….”

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.

How to Avoid Boating Collisions, Part 2 BY GREG FONZENO

Last month, I addressed the actions boaters should take when crossing each other’s path. You will recall the give-way boat takes action to prevent a collision, and the stand-on boat maintains course and speed. But, if it’s obvious the give-way boat is not taking action, the stand-on boat must act to avoid a crash. This month, let’s look at what should be done when two boats meet head-on, and when one boat wants to pass another. First, the head-on situation. You and your family are in your power boat, cruising through a narrow passageway, and you see another power boat coming directly at you. In this case, both boats are give-way boats and must take “early and substantial” action to avoid a collision. But what action should be taken? The preference is for both boats to turn to their right (starboard). Also, they should have been cruising as far to their right side of the channel as was safe and practical, which often will prevent a collision situation. What if there are rocks on your right side? You could turn to your left, but then the other boat would have to turn to its left and would be heading for the rocks. There is “doubt and danger” involved in this situation, no matter what each boat does. Five short blasts of your whistle (horn) will warn the other boat of danger. Probably the best course of action 24

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

is for both boats to slow to idle speed and pass close to each other, well out of danger from the rocks. This is one of many common-sense decisions boaters must make. So, how do you pass another boat in a narrow channel? Since your boat is doing the passing — the overtaking boat — you always are the give-way vessel. It is up to you to make a safe pass. You select the side that seems safer, turn in that direction and slowly, with as much clearance as possible, make the pass. Remember, you are responsible for your wake, so don’t rock and roll the other boat. The vessel being passed — the overtaken boat — is the stand-on boat, but if you are being overtaken, be courteous and slow down to make the passing smoother and quicker. To learn more, attend a boating-safety class with the whole family. Visit http://wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=070-02-02&category=boating-courses or email flotilla22pe@gmail.com to find the schedule of classes in Acworth.

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

Ways to

Feed Kids This Summer

BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY

We are halfway into summer vacation, and that means you still will see lots of kids in the community, having fun at pools or on playgrounds. Sadly, it also is important to remember summer vacation can be a challenge for many children, too. Those who depend on schools for access to nutritious food especially are at risk. But, there is something you can do. Check out these important projects on justserve.org to support children and their needs this summer. And the best part? Your kids can help out, too.

Prepare kits for children through MUST.

Thank you! 2022

We were voted BEST Daycare. Primrose School of Bells Ferry

MUST serves more than 500,000 meals to children over a nine-week period every summer. Sign up to assemble bags for children to use for a week of meals or donate much-needed supplies directly to the warehouse. (https://bit.ly/3tdLkBN)

Pack meals with YMCA.

Help prepare lunches for children.

Make sandwiches for those in need.

The YMCA always has been a safe place for kids. Help them and support our communities by donating supplies to the food pantries or coming out to pack and deliver meals. (https://bit.ly/3PUWEN6) The Table on Delk works to support homeless women and children who are at risk for sexual exploitation. Sign up to decorate lunch bags, fill them and drop them off to the Marietta office. (https://bit.ly/3x8nkm8) Every week, The Sandwich Project collects homemade sandwiches at drop-off points throughout metro Atlanta. Check out the instructions and find a location near you. (https://bit.ly/3wZqSWl) Be sure to check out these great projects and more on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe North Georgia public Facebook group. You truly can make an impact with simple acts of service!

JustServe.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprof it organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprof it or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!

Call to schedule a tour!

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Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

What is your background?

I was hired by Kennesaw Police Department as a dispatcher on July 3, 1999. I was promoted to shift supervisor in 2005, after we contracted in Acworth 911. Since then, I have attended several classes, workshops, conferences, etc., that have contributed to my knowledge in this career field. I was promoted to the Kennesaw Acworth 911 director position on Oct. 30, 2021. I do not have any formal college degrees, but I’m a consummate learner. If I do not know about something, I will immediately start looking for resources on the subject and absorb as much as I can about it.

What excites you most about the community’s future?

Nikki McGraw Kennesaw Acworth 911 Director

What are your main responsibilities?

The job description lists several duties, such as manage and direct staff, plan and organize dayto-day functions of the E911 department, manage department financials, prepare and review varying reports, etc. However, I’d like to think my main responsibility is my team. Their health, both physical and mental, is my top priority. When my team is well and running efficiently, not only do the police departments and the communities we serve benefit, but it also makes the admin part of my job easier.

What do you like most about your job? I love, love, love my job and the community that I’m privileged to work for! The one constant of Kennesaw is that, no matter the growth, the people remain kind and grateful. I have met some phenomenal people and beautiful souls that I will never forget. 26

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

The world of 911 is moving at such a fast pace, with new technologies emerging. I am hoping to further our text-to-911 technology — make it so the communication to and from the 911 team is faster and smoother for the caller. We are on the brink of releasing video to 911 for the residents. We would ask permission from a caller to open a link so that we may view what they see from their phone’s camera. We are discussing putting together a public education team. They would visit schools, HOAs [homeowners associations], etc., in order to educate the public on all aspects of 911. Stay tuned!

What are your personal and professional goals?

My personal goals have always been familycentered: better myself so that my family can have a better life. My professional goals are ever-evolving. Of course, my priority is to be the type of leader my team needs — not wants, but needs. Another goal, as mentioned above, is to have a few 911 team members go out and interact with the community; 911 has always been elusive. We are only thought of when someone is having the worst day of their lives. It would be great to have our community get to know us as part of the public safety chain and for us to get to know our community as more than a voice in chaos.

Tell us about your family and hobbies.

I am married to my career and am a dog mom. My mom, sister and 13-year-old nephew all live with me, and believe me when I say the old saying, “It takes a village…,” is 100% true. When I have time for any hobbies, I enjoy reading (have stacks of books that have been neglected), outdoor photography, cross-stitching, road tripping and binge-watching anything true crime.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

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STRETCH YOUR Benefits Range From Extending Range of Motion to Fighting Aging

fter working as a cardiac professional at Kennestone Hospital, a job that had her standing for hours, Susan Black decided to switch careers. She’s still helping people get healthier, but through a method that she says is the key to defying aging: stretching. It’s the one void in health care that hasn’t been addressed, according to Susan, who owns several franchises of Stretch Zone, including the most recent one she’s opened in Kennesaw.

PHOTO BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS

“Stretching is something we all know to do, but we don’t do it enough or properly,” she said. “It’s the best anti-aging routine you can do for yourself.” Susan discovered the benefits of stretching after a year and a

half of treating a frozen shoulder through more traditional methods. Her healing caused her to look further into the science behind stretching, and that’s when she discovered Stretch Zone. “Now, more than ever, people realize the importance of staying healthy and moving,” she said. “You don’t have to live with stiffness. It’s not a normal aging process and can be reversed. Through proper stretching, you prevent injury, recover quicker from an injury and are able to keep your body in motion, relieve stress, correct posture issues and pain, and, most of all, stay young!” In fact, her oldest client is 102 years old; her youngest is 14. Stretch Mind and Body At Stretch Zone, practitioners gradually increase the range of motion by manipulating muscles with neuromuscular behavior. The

A CLIENT GETS STRETCHED BY COLE LINDNER AFTER HIS WORKOUT.

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

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R BODY AND YOUR MIND The neuromuscular science behind stretching involves retraining the brain to allow the muscles to move past their comfort level. With an injury, the brain sends signals to guard the affected area. With coaxing, improvements will come, as the person learns to push past the discomfort, in a guided and supervised way, to promote healing through stretching. For older people, the improvements can make a big difference in their quality of life. Stretching has restored simple functions, such as maintaining muscle and reducing fall risks, Susan said. The process is gradual. Clients stretch out on a specially made bed, equipped with patented straps that allow the client to relax fully and the practitioner to immobilize areas not being worked on, to properly isolate and target each muscle group. A routine has been set up to assure the client that the stretch won’t go too far. The methodology is called 3, 5, 7. “We tell them, when they first start to feel the stretch, to say 3,” Susan said. “Then, we release the stretch and tell them when they feel it stretch a little more, say 5. We release, and then go for a deep stretch, when they say 7. It’s important for them to know we’ll never reach a 10 during a session.

We work every major muscle … You are in control of your stretch.” This procedure was developed to help stretch practitioners understand each client’s level of discomfort, and to not push past that. Each practitioner is certified through a national board, and all have previous experience in body care, from personal training to chiropractic. Who Can Benefit? The short answer is everyone can benefit from stretching, according to Susan. Perhaps the people who need it most are those who stand on their feet all day (health care workers, hair stylists), push their bodies to the limit (athletes) or find themselves repeating the same motions day after day (working at a desk, on computers, etc.). Golfers, pickleball players and athletes, from high school to professionals, see huge gains in their range of motion, improvements in their game and a reduction in injury risks. “I used to work with a personal trainer who’d stretch us afterward,” Susan said. “I never developed soreness, thanks to stretching. I’d work out because I wanted to get stretched. A lot of the testimony we hear is from golfers who say how it’s helped improve their game.” Among the benefits are: pain relief from sciatica and plantar fasciitis; balance can be strengthened; poor posture can be corrected. Improvements in these areas often can prevent surgery. For prospective clients, the first stretch is free. An assessment is

PHOTO PROVIDED BY STRETCH ZONE

stretch reflex is adjusted, so the clients feel lighter and younger, experience enhanced athletic performance, get relief from stiffness and soreness, and fight the aging process.

made, and a plan is developed to address each individual’s needs. Insurance isn’t accepted, but payments from health savings accounts are welcome. The cost of each visit is comparable to a copay for a physician. Susan wants to work with corporate clients as well, to bring health and wellness, and to help employee retention. Susan opened her first Stretch Zone in Woodstock in March 2020, right before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down everything. Despite that, her business grew, and now she has eight franchises. The company has 200 locations nationwide, averaging two to three new stores a week. Brand ambassador Drew Brees has eight locations in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. “It’s not a trend, and it’s not boutique fitness,” she said. “It’s the one void in health care that’s never been addressed. There really is a need.”

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AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

If a porch or sunroom is not climate-controlled and/ or can get wet, the choices are limited. In this case, it is considered an exterior space, and you need a floor that can handle the elements. Porcelain or stone tile, outdoor carpet (installed or rugs) or composite decking is recommended. (If your porch is enclosed with panels that you can remove, it stiill should be treated as an exterior space.) If your porch is glass-enclosed and climatecontrolled, LVP/LVT (luxury vinyl plank or tile) and laminates are possibilities. Temperature and humidity extremes, and amount of direct sunlight will determine if these floors are an option. When in doubt, consult a flooring expert.

Flooring Type Pros and Cons

• Outdoor carpets and rugs are inexpensive, cozy

•

Weighing Options for Porch and Sunroom Flooring

BY ELISABETH STUBBS

A common question in the flooring industry is: What floors are best for covered porches and sunrooms? Before making recommendations, flooring experts need to know: • Is the covered porch fully enclosed? If so, is it enclosed with glass, vinyl/clear plastic or screens? • Is it possible for the porch to get wet (rain, etc.)? • Is the room climate-controlled (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)? • Is the porch/sunroom built on a cement slab or elevated (constructed from wood: pressure-treated lumber, cedar, redwood, etc.) • How much direct sunlight does it get in the afternoon? The answers to these questions determine the type of flooring that is best. The more insulated your room is, the more flooring options you have. However, hardwood flooring is not recommended for covered porches or sunrooms. Even gentle exposure to the elements changes the recommended options for your floor. 30

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

•

and warm during winter. They are recommended for porches that are not climate-controlled or protected from the elements. Their cost is low, but they typically need to be replaced every three to five years. Porcelain tile and stone are extremely durable and easy to clean. There are numerous color, size and texture choices. This type of flooring will not expand, contract or warp and is recommended for porches that are not climate-controlled or protected from the elements. Tile and stone feel warmer in the winter underfoot and cooler in the summer. Professional installation is expensive, but DIY installation costs less. An elevated porch may not be sturdy enough to support the weight of tile and backer board. Vinyl products (LVP/LVT) feature numerous wood and tile visuals. They can fade in intense sunlight and melt when exposed to high surface temperatures. However, some styles are warranted for sunroom applications. If your porch is sloped or uneven, gluedown products are recommended. Cost is moderate. Laminates boast realistic wood looks, and they will not fade in direct sunlight. However, they do not tolerate humidity and temperature extremes. Cost is moderate. Wood and composite decking is made for exterior applications. Composite decking is an amalgam of ground-up wood and plastic formed into planks — it doesn’t ever need to be sealed, stained or painted. Natural wood may need to be re-stained as often as every two years and resealed as frequently as once per year. Cost is high.

Tip: Before purchasing, always read the manufacturer’s installation instructions and warranty for all products you are considering for your covered porch or sunroom.

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

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What goes into planning this event?

Planning begins in November/December. Requirements that have to be met include approval from the fire marshal for the event and the fireworks, as well as road closures from mayor and council. Planning this event requires communication and tasks completed by many city departments, including parks and recreation, building maintenance, police, 911 communications, public works, communication and engagement, city manager, mayor and council, and more. Planning also includes booking the fireworks company and sound production company, seeking sponsors and vendors, finding performers, reserving equipment for rent (restrooms, ATMs, light towers, generators, tables and chairs and trash receptacles), creating a layout, notifying local businesses and residents who might be impacted by closures, writing announcements, creating signage and marketing the event, and more.

Who shoots off the fireworks?

The fireworks company that we hire shoots off the fireworks. They typically have two or three staff members to set up, execute and clean up. When it is time to launch, one of the parks and rec staff members, with the fireworks company, calls the mayor, who is on the Depot Stage to coordinate the countdown.

How many fireworks have been ordered, and how long will the show last?

The Making of a

Fireworks

SHOW

Since 1965, the city of Kennesaw has been entertaining crowds with a spectacular fireworks display for Independence Day, according to Special Events Coordinator Brittani Farmer. But the annual celebration — the only one in north Cobb when it started — always has been on July 3, giving the locals a chance to attend two fireworks shows each year. Now, the event draws 5,000 to 10,000 people to the downtown area. We asked Brittani a few questions to give us a peek behind the scenes of this popular event. 32

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

The show will last around 15 minutes. There will be around 500-600 fireworks shot, with almost half being in the grand finale. The cost that we set and the sizes of the shells shot determine the length of the show.

How are the fireworks ignited? They are shot off electronically.

Are “duds” very common?

Duds and misfires are not common, but they are a risk.

What size shells are used in Kennesaw’s show?

We mainly use 3-inch shells, with some 2½-inch shells to supplement and a few 4-inch shells for the “wow” factor.

How are the fireworks for the grand finale done?

They are not that different from the others shot during the show. It is just a bunch of them in a smaller time frame.

Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Email to: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com August deadline is July 10. Please specify Around Kennesaw.

Matthew

Age 9 on July 26 Happy birthday! You are one of a kind! Love, Mom, Dad and Josiah

Hayden

Happy 10th birthday, Hayden! You are so special and everyone loves you so much!

Meredith and Eyveri

Happy 17th birthday to our beautiful girl, Meredith! And happy 15th birthday to our handsome son, Eyveri! So proud of you! Love, Mom and Dad

Grant Gilbert

Congratulations on graduating from the University of North Georgia with your bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in digital marketing! Love, the Kellys

Walker

Happy second birthday to our wild boy! We love you so much and can’t wait to see what this year brings as you learn and grow. Mommy, Daddy and Emerson

Natalie R. Street

Born May 15 Welcome to the world, sweet girl! Daddy, Mommy and big brother love you!

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

The building that now houses Trackside Grill served as the Kennesaw Post Office from 1963-1974.

Kennesaw Post Office Remains Important Community Fixture BY ANDREW J. BRAMLETT

A post office named Kennesaw was established Aug. 8, 1853, under Postmaster William M. Croft. Official records show the name of this first post office being spelled “Kenesaw,” with a single “n.” At that time, what we call the city of Kennesaw was a small community named Big Shanty, so where was this post office? Before the Civil War, maps show Big Shanty and another community to the south called Kennesaw or Kenesaw. This lost community would have been in the vicinity of the overflow parking lot at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

This 1865 map by the U.S. Coast Survey shows “Moon Stat.,” “Big Shanty” and “Kenesaw.” 34

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

On June 6, 1854, the post office’s name was changed to Moons and likely moved north of what is now Kennesaw to Moons Station during this time. It is unknown who Moons Station was named for, but it later played a small role in the Great Locomotive Chase. The site of the station is near Baker Road. The post office only stayed at Moons Station for five years, and on April 30, 1859, it moved to “Big Shantee,” a misspelling of Big Shanty. The post office kept the Big Shanty name for almost a decade, but on Jan. 25, 1869, the name officially was changed to Kennesaw. The first postmaster under the new name was Nelson Timleck. As with the earlier Kennesaw Post Office, this location might have been different than our city, as one map from the 1880s shows “Kennesaw P.O.” to the west of Big Shanty. During the next few decades, information about the Kennesaw Post Office was limited. An article from the Sept. 11, 1902, edition of the Marietta Journal details Kennesaw’s three delivery routes: one more than 20 miles long, one more than 23 miles long and one more than 28 miles long. There are very few known details about what the post office was like during this decade, except that in 1906, the postmaster “received a new cabinet with lock and call boxes.” In 1911, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was hoping to decide on the spelling of our community:

Kennesaw or Kenesaw. One of the sources it consulted was Postmaster T.J. Hardage, and it was partly thanks to his advice that the USGS chose to spell it Kennesaw. (After a similar process in 1895, they had decided to spell it Kenesaw.) One decade later, in 1921, thieves broke into the post office and stole “$105 in cash and stamps.” Details about the postmasters have survived. In 1912, they were paid $571 a year, and by 1934, their salary had been raised to $936. Among the people who served as Kennesaw postmasters, several stand out. Lemuel Kendrick was postmaster from 18561865 and was one of Big Shanty’s most influential residents. Sylvanus J. Baldwin, who was a veteran of the Civil War and was wounded at the Battle of Kolb’s Farm, served as postmaster in 1895. The previously mentioned T.J. Hardage was our first mayor and served as postmaster between 1899 and 1911. The first woman to serve was Carrie Plyant, who was acting postmaster in 1934. The first woman to be a full postmaster was Nancy Kemp Ellis, appointed in 1939. Perhaps no postal employee in Kennesaw is more fondly remembered than Helen Odom. During World War II, Odom worked as an electrician at Bell Bomber Plant in Marietta. At the war’s end, she was laid off and was asked to help at the Kennesaw Post Office during the Christmas rush. Several accounts mention the post office had no bathroom when she was hired. Odom became postmaster in 1949 and served for the next 23 years. In 1952, the post office moved to a new location. The building was the former home of Kennesaw State Bank and was a welcome change, as it was equipped with a bathroom. The post office relocated to a purpose-built facility, which cost $23,000 and was near the building then serving as city hall, in December 1963 and was dedicated the following year. In September 1964, house-to-house delivery service began, and the first letter carriers were Betty Chumley and Jack Weeks. By 1969, the building already was too small, so the decision was made to move again. The new facility — now home of Hester Dental — opened in 1974, and the old building went through a number of owners before becoming Trackside Grill. The post office moved to its current location on Duncan Drive in 1988. Another ZIP code — 30152 — was added in 1995 to accommodate demand. For almost 170 years, Kennesaw residents have relied on the post office, which remains one of our most important community fixtures.

This undated photograph shows the Kennesaw Post Office from 1952-1963, when it occupied the former home of the Kennesaw State Bank. Photo courtesy of Sara Dick.

Postmaster Helen Odom accepts an American flag from Congressman John W. Davis, right, at the dedication of the Kennesaw Post Office in 1963.

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

Hester Dental was home of the Kennesaw Post Office from 1974 until it moved into its current facility on Duncan Drive in 1988. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

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

This dog’s name is Violet. She is 1.5 years old and a medium-sized dog. She was eager to go outside when we saw her in the shelter, and she was a very nice and calm dog when she was outside. She sat very well for a picture. Violet will be a great and very calm dog for a family.

I interviewed Matt Lindenberg, founder and executive director of Global Conservation Corps, a nonprofit that bridges the gap between community and wildlife (www.globalconservationcorps. org). This interview is part two of three parts, which will continue in August.

How many rhinos are living in the wild in South Africa?

Eighty percent of the world’s rhino population is in South Africa. Half live in Kruger National Park. There are approximately 26,000 in the world and five species. In Africa, you find black and white rhinos. There are about 9,00013,000 white rhinos in Africa. There are less than 5,000 black rhinos in the world (about 1,900 in South Africa).

Do you think poaching can be stopped?

I have to believe it can. It takes community ownership and political will. We always will need rangers as a deterrent to hold the line. Poaching has been going down, but during the pandemic, there was a big surge. Rangers were laid off, so poachers moved in. We are losing one to two rhinos every day. Until people are living in better circumstances, poaching will continue. It is not just rhinos. Every animal is being consumed. Africa is the last chance to do it differently.

This cat’s name is Rudy. He is 3 years old and is a magnificent cat. He is a super sweet, orange tabby. If you want a cat that will just hang out with you, this is your cat.

What is the most fun thing for the kids you work with?

Game drives — going on safari and seeing wildlife up close.

What does someone need to do to become a ranger?

It’s a one-week selection process, paramilitary style. Once they make it through that, it’s a six-week armed, basic course. Rangers need to exemplify commitment, leadership, courage and integrity.

What are some dangers involved in becoming a ranger?

You are working to protect dangerous animals in the field. There also are diseases like malaria to deal with. Poachers target and kill rangers. Poaching syndicates kill the rangers and then get their families killed. 36

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Rob with Matt Lindenberg of Global Conservation Corps.

What is your favorite thing about this job?

Being a part of systemic change in South Africa. I try to show the kids living in poverty around Kruger National Park that the park is part of their national heritage, and they deserve to be a part of it. Also, my staff. I get a glimmer of hope through them that there can be a different future. I started this for the wildlife, but my people give me so much hope.

What is a story that you like to tell?

I like to tell people how Martin Mthembu (the inspiration for the movie, “Rhino Man”) saved my life. He saved it twice, actually. The first time, I was training 16 students in the bush, living off the land. We walked into an area where 25 lions were sleeping. One student stepped on a branch, which woke the lions up. They were roaring. A lioness, 9 feet behind me, was crouched and ready to attack. Martin, unarmed, screamed and got between me and the lioness and held his ground. She eventually backed off. The lioness was causing a distraction, giving her pack time to move off. (A lion can charge 60 feet in one second, but humans are apex predators.) The second time he saved my life was from a black mamba snake. Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.

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At Mostly Mutts animal rescue, we’re on the hunt for volunteers to join our family. If you can answer phones, perform data entry, walk dogs or bottle-feed kittens, we’d love to meet you. Please apply at:

mostlymutts.org/volunteer.

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Quick & Easy

Farmers MarketInspired Recipes

With farmers market season in full swing, now is the perfect time to check out all the fresh produce at the Kennesaw Farmers Market and to experiment with some tasty new dishes. Local vendors have submitted a few of their favorite recipes that use ingredients you might find at the market (3:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays through Aug. 1).

Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash and Tomatoes K&T Farms (www.facebook.com/K-T-Farms-106283251987456) From www.cookingclassy.com.

Ingredients

• 1 pound zucchini, cut in half-inch slices • 1 pound squash, cut in half-inch slices • 14 small tomatoes, cut in half (We use our cherry tomatoes.) • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 4 cloves garlic, minced (2 tablespoons) • 1¼ teaspoons Italian seasoning • Salt and pepper • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a pan with aluminum foil. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic and Italian seasoning. Let sit for 10 minutes. Put zucchini, squash and tomatoes in a larger bowl. Cover with oil after the 10 minutes. Spread evenly onto the baking sheet. Add salt and pepper. Cover with the Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Watermelon Jicama Salad Point Blank Pepper Co. (www.pointblankpeppercompany.com)

Ingredients

• 1 pound seedless watermelon, rind removed, cut into 2-inch cubes • ½ large jicama, peeled, cut into 12-inch sticks • 2 tablespoons Point Blank Pepper Co. Smoke Rings, chopped • 1 scallion (white and pale green parts only), thinly sliced • ½ cup coarsely chopped cilantro • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Directions

Gently toss watermelon, jicama, smoke rings, scallion, cilantro and lime juice in a large bowl. Season with salt, if desired. Variations: Add feta cheese, substitute mint for cilantro, drizzle with mild or hot table sauce.

Sunday Afternoon Salmon Spread

Recipe and photo courtesy of Dan Siegler.

Ingredients • • • • • •

1 piece Dancin’ Salmon smoked salmon 16 ounces cream cheese ½ jar capers, drained 1 small red onion, finely diced 3 tablespoons heavy cream Good Measure Bakery everything bread

Directions Cooks can find zucchini and squash at the K&T Farms booth at the Kennesaw Farmers Market. 38

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Allow the cream cheese to soften. Break up salmon into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, add all ingredients and mix well with a spoon. Slice bread and toast, if desired. Spread mixture onto bread.

Savory Grilled Peaches Point Blank Pepper Co. (www.pointblankpeppercompany.com)

Ingredients

• 2 large peaches, halved and pitted • Oil for brushing peaches • 2 ounces soft goat cheese • 4 slices thin prosciutto • 4 tablespoons Point Blank Pepper Co. Table Sauce, mild or hot

Directions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Spoon ½ ounce goat cheese into center of each peach half. Wrap 1 slice of prosciutto around each half, pressing lightly. Oil grill rack. Grill peaches, covered, turning once, until the prosciutto is browned and crisp, about 6 minutes. Drizzle with table sauce. Variations: Substitute any soft cheese like brie or ricotta, use bacon instead of prosciutto, garnish with mint, if desired.

Peach Pit Vinegar Pearson Farm (www.georgiaproud.com)

Directions

Save your peach pits. Collect pits in a Mason jar during peach season and keep in the fridge. Cover pits with white vinegar and place on counter. Vent every three-four weeks. Let sit for three-four months. Taste it at two and three months to see the difference. Great for salads and desserts.

Southbound Barbecue’s Brunswick Stew Southbound Barbecue (southboundque.com)

Meat

• 2-3 pounds chopped smoked chicken or pulled smoked pork (prepared ribs and rotisserie chicken work, too)

Vegetables • • • • • •

15 ounces diced new potatoes (1 can) 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes (1 can) 14.75 ounces creamed corn (1 can) 12 ounces baby lima beans (fresh or 1 bag frozen) ½ cup sweet Vidalia onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced

Stock • • • • • • •

4 cups chicken stock (low-sodium works best) 2 cups Sweet Southern Heat Barbecue Sauce 1 tablespoon Primo Pork Powder 1 tablespoon bacon grease, lard, tallow or canola oil 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

Buy a box of peaches from Pearson Farm’s booth and save the pits to make Peach Pit Vinegar.

Pull or chop your chosen meat or meats into tidbit-sized pieces and set aside. Don’t be afraid to work several meats into your stew – just ensure a total of 2-3 pounds of meat make it into the dish. Dice the onion and set aside. Mince the garlic and set aside. Open all vegetable cans and bags and set aside. Add your chosen fat/oil to large, heavybottom pot, like a dutch oven, over medium-high. Allow to melt and come to sauté temperature. Add onions to pot, stir and sauté. Keep onions moving to avoid burning. Once onions begin to turn translucent, add garlic and stir. Garlic can burn easily, so keep stirring as you sauté. Once onions and garlic begin to release their fragrance and soften prior to browning, add fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir once or twice. Add chicken stock, new potatoes, baby lima beans, creamed corn, Sweet Southern Heat, Primo Pork Powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Stir well. Finally, add your meat slowly to avoid splatter. Stir well. Turn heat to high and bring stew to boil. Stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low to low to allow stew to simmer. Monitor stew about every 15 minutes and stir. Reduce liquid by about 25%. This normally takes 45 minutes to an hour. Reducing allows stew to thicken while also intensifying the flavor. Once thickened to your liking, serve as a side or main dish. Pairs well with saltines and cornbread. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

The Gulf States Shipbuilders Consortium is dedicated to advancing the shipbuilding and ship repair workforce. Photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Shipbuilding Industry Affects Acworth BY RYAN BLYTHE

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Gulf States Shipbuilders Consortium (GSSC) annual meeting in Mobile, Alabama. It was the first meeting of the GSSC since the COVID-19 pandemic, and we welcomed a host of speakers, many of whom I hope to introduce in future articles. The conference began with a keynote address from Austal USA President Rusty Murdaugh, who is responsible for 3,200 shipbuilding professionals in Mobile, as well as operations in Washington, San Diego and Singapore. Austal joined the U.S. defense market in 2004 and is under contract with the U.S. Navy to build the littoral combat ship and the expeditionary fast transport. The company now is the fifth-largest shipbuilder in the United States, and most impressive is the fact that, given its size, Austal is one of the safest yards in America. Next, we heard from Ben Bordelon, president of Bollinger Shipyards. Bordelon might be a familiar name to SEC football fans, as he was a standout lineman at LSU and later played for the San Diego Chargers. The grandson of Bollinger’s founder, Bordelon oversees 13 shipyards and 40 dry docks in Louisiana and Texas. For 76 years, Bollinger has built ships for the Navy and Coast Guard. Bordelon said he would like to see more long-term planning by the Department of Defense, particularly as it relates to procurement, a key issue given the supply-chain disruption. He also would like more bipartisanship in Congress, especially on defense matters. Additional speakers included Marietta resident Keith Williams, who has produced more than 90 podcasts on the skilled-trades industry, interviewing business 40

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

owners, plumbers, welders and other craft workers. His Skill Stadium is a road map into the skilled trades, with videos, blogs and, of course, his popular podcast. Nichole Thompson from The Lab on Dexter in Montgomery, Alabama, is producing a white paper on where the American workforce has gone since the pandemic. She is an award-winning author, serial entrepreneur and expert on diversity, equity and inclusion and challenging the status quo. One of her key takeaways was looking at diversity beyond race or ethnicity to include gender, social class, education, religion and sexual orientation. Delivering our final keynote address was Cam Marston, an expert on workplace and marketplace trends who has appeared in such publications as The Wall Street Journal and Forbes and been featured on “Good Morning America” and the BBC. Marston focuses on our fourgeneration workforce and how an understanding of each generation can help organizations become more effective leaders. I learned that, as an Xennial tweener, I can relate to both Gen X and millennials. Why does this matter to Cobb County? Well, the shipbuilding industry is so large, the halo effect is felt in every congressional district in the country. Additionally, we are in an unprecedented labor market, and companies must innovate to remain competitive. Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which for the seventh consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.

Are You Ready for College?

BY JENNIFER BONN

High school graduation is done, and, for many, the next step is college. But are you ready? After 40 years of teaching and sending three of my children off to a post-secondary institution, I have learned a few tips to help prepare young people for the transition. Prepare mentally. My youngest was very nervous about not doing well academically in college. I told her she would realize during her first week that she would do fine. Luckily, her first few grades were very good, and that eased her fears. I discovered many students have the same fear, even if they did well in high school.

Understand the first few weeks will be bumpy.

• If you are leaving home, you probably will be homesick, but it will get better. • Don’t buy your books until after the first class. Even though books might be listed on the syllabus, the teacher might not use them frequently, or there might be a less-expensive source. Also, Amazon rents textbooks. • Classes in college move more quickly than in high school. Students need to be invested in doing well from the start. Get the phone number of at least one friend in each class. You might need to call him or her for homework or to give the teacher a message from you. Ask a lot of questions. This means in class as well as general questions about topics such as financial aid or resources. If you don’t know how to do something, don’t get frustrated. Ask questions.

Be prepared to self-advocate. You are independent now, so you have to be responsible for yourself. Teachers might make a mistake on your grade. Respectfully ask about it. Stand up for yourself when necessary. Find a social/academic balance. It is easy to get pulled into the social scene and see your grades drop, but you also don’t want to stay in your room all the time. Find a balance that works. Make a financial plan. How are you going to get money for necessities, like snacks? Talk to your parents, and make a budget. Stay safe. Use common sense when traveling after dark, and travel in a group. Let someone know where you are going. Don’t overdo it during your first semester. College offers a chance to explore many interests, but don’t overwhelm yourself by taking on too much. Give yourself a chance to settle in. College can be wonderful, but those first few weeks will be a transition. Give yourself time to acclimate, meet new people and explore new interests. Four years will fly by. Jennifer Bonn is a freelance writer in Kennesaw and a recently retired 40-year educator. Her book, “101 Tips to Lighten Your Burden,” was recently released and is available on Amazon.

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Local News

The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office’s Class of 2022 graduates.

Flower Garden Club Dedicates Picnic Table

The Flower Garden Club of Marietta recently donated and dedicated a picnic table and benches in the new 95-acre Kemp Park, which includes fields, woodlands, trails, a creek and Civil War earthworks. The west Cobb property was nominated for parkland by the Kemp family and then purchased by Cobb County. Club member Teresa Winget’s husband, Rollie, constructed the table, and Cobb PARKS employees helped install it. Cobb Commissioner Keli Gambrill joined the celebration and restated her commitment to preserving green space in the county and the need to maintain its natural beauty.

Summer Food Service Program Underway

The Cobb County Police Department’s Class of 2022 police academy graduates.

Public Safety Class of 2022 Graduates

Cobb County has a number of new public safety employees, as two groups of recruits — one for the Cobb County Police Department (CCPD) and one for the Cobb County Sheriff ’s Office (CCSO) — recently graduated. CCPD’s Mandate 58 completed more than 1,000 hours of police instruction at Cobb’s police academy, including countless hours in the defensive tactics room, getting in shape, and hundreds of hours in the classroom. The former recruits now are sworn Cobb County police officers out on the road, answering 911 calls, responding to wrecks and making traffic stops. Next, they will embark on phase 2 of their training on the road with their field training officers. Eleven CCSO deputies in Class 339 graduated from Basic Mandate at the North Central Georgia Law Enforcement Academy and are returning to work after several weeks of classroom and hands-on learning.

Sheriff ’s Office Takes Second Place in Dragon Boat Race

This year, the Cobb County Sheriff ’s Office took second place in the fifth annual Acworth-Cobb Dragon Boat Race at Lake Allatoona. All proceeds from the event go to local cancer patients and survivors. During the race, Team Purple Dragons needed extra rowers in order to be able to compete, so some of the sheriff ’s office team jumped in to help fill the empty spots. The members of the Purple Dragons are cancer survivors, and the deputies were ecstatic to help them win first place. 42

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Happy Helpings, Georgia’s summer food service program, is providing free meals to children through July 28 at the North Cobb Regional Library at 3535 Old 41 Highway in Kennesaw. Packages of 14 meals each — one week of breakfasts and lunches — will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last, Thursdays at 1:30-3:30 p.m. through July 28. The food will be distributed via drive-through services in the library parking lot. Prepared by a local countyinspected commercial kitchen, the meals are for children ages 18 and younger. Adults 19 years and older who are enrolled in school programs for students with disabilities also will receive meals. Cobb County Public Library is teaming with Georgia Educational Resources Inc. (GER) for the third year to provide a summer meal service funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. Last year, the library system and GER provided 36,076 meals to 2,787 children. For information on the program, visit www.happyhelpingsga.com.

Downtown Kennesaw Dining Bangkok Cabin

Fern Gully Jamaican Cafe

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Bernie’s

Frozen Cow Creamery

SuBourbon Rock & Oyster Bar

Thai 3413 Cherokee St. 770-427-5287 www.bangkokcabin.net

American 2825 S. Main St. 770-627-2297 www.meetatbernies.com

Big Shanty Smokehouse Barbecue 3393 Cherokee St. 770-499-7444 www.bigshantybbq.com

BurgerFi

American 2844 S. Main St. 770-635-2800 www.burgerfi.com

Jamaican 2756 S. Main St. 678-401-3719 www.ferngullycafe.com

Ice Cream

2870 Cherokee St. 678-324-7459 www.frozenbluecow.com

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

American 2825 S. Main St. 770-575-9026 www.gusfriedchicken.com

Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery Bakery

2825 S. Main St. 770-627-4370 www.honeysucklebiscuits.com

Cylantros Venezuelan Cuisine Kennesaw

Kennesaw Thai Cuisine

El Taco Azteca Bar and Grill

Lazy Labrador Coffee House

Venezuelan 3338 Cherokee St. 678-324-6276 www.cylantros.net

Mexican 2689 Summers St. 678-310-0165 https://eltaco-azteca.com

Thai 2754 S. Main St. 678-331-1988 www.kennesawthaiatlanta.com

Italian 2740 Summers St. 770-966-9600 www.pisanospizzeria.com

Oyster Bar 2718 Summers St. 770-726-2163 www.subourbonbar.com

The Nest Kennesaw

Barbecue 2921 Cherokee St. 678-903-6921 www.thenestkennesaw.com

Trackside Grill

Southern 2840 S. Main St. 770-499-0874 www.tracksidegrill.com

Vesuvio Pizzeria Napoletana Pizzeria 2893 N. Main St., Suite B https://vesuvionapoletana.com

Coffee and Baked Goods 2886 Cherokee St. 770-820-6091 www.lazylabradorcoffeehouse.com

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Ways to Reduce Pest Problems in Garden BY ROBERT TRAWICK

Wherever you go in America, gardeners will tell you about the terrible pest problems with which they have to deal, and we know Georgians have more than our fair share of insects, diseases and weeds. It is important to remember that using pesticides (fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides) is only one method for controlling pests, and minimizing the use of pesticides, whether chemical or organic, always is a good idea. Make it a point to inspect your landscape frequently for developing problems. Weed control is a prime example. Early intervention is far easier and more effective than letting the situation get out of hand before acting. Mulches are the best way to save work and reduce the use of herbicides to control weeds in beds. One of the best defenses against pest problems is to keep your plants in tip-top condition through good horticultural practices, including proper spacing, soil, drainage, water, light and nutrients for your plants. A healthy, vigorous plant is more resistant to disease and withstands insect attacks better, and a healthy lawn resists weeds. Find instructions for soil testing at https://bit.ly/3u15yPG. Another excellent way to avoid insect and disease problems is through plant selection. Choose plants that are adapted to your climate and naturally are resistant to major problems. If you have plants that constantly seem to be under attack despite your best efforts, consider replacing them with plants that require less care. Using native plants is a great way to prevent unnecessary problems. Visit https://bit.ly/3Aja7sL for a publication called “Native Plants of North Georgia: A Photo Guide for Plant Enthusiasts.” In vegetable gardens and flower beds filled with annuals, crop rotation is important. Planting the same type of plants in the same bed, year after year, can cause diseases that use those plants as hosts to build up in the soil. Always keep your yard, gardens and adjacent areas as weedfree as possible. Fruit and fallen leaves infected with disease should be collected, bagged and thrown away. And never leave rotten vegetables and leaves on the ground in your vegetable garden. Keep dead branches regularly pruned out of fruit trees, shade trees and shrubs. Dead and rotting branches can serve as points of entry and sources of infection.

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Solitary oak leafminers are tiny caterpillars that feed between the outer layers of oak leaves.

Some disease organisms live in the soil and are splashed onto plants by irrigation or rain. Using mulch under and around your plants can reduce the occurrence of these types of diseases. This especially is helpful when growing fruit and vegetable crops like tomatoes, squash and strawberries. When problems do arise, proper diagnosis is critical to correcting the situation with the most appropriate and safest control method. Unfortunately, diagnosing the causes of pest problems is not easy for the average gardener. Contact your local UGA Extension Office for help with identifying problems and recommending solutions. Also, remember that wearing your personal protective equipment when applying chemicals and following the instructions on pesticide labels are crucial. The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County (MGVOCC) 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.

Covers Get Results!

Find out how you can be featured on the cover!

770-778-5314 AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

School News Kennesaw State Student Awarded Scholarship The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy has awarded Kennesaw State University student Evan Pudlo of Kennesaw a scholarship for the upcoming school year through its University Nuclear Leadership Program. The program aims to invest in the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers, and the scholarship allows students to earn a minor in nuclear engineering, making them more competitive for positions in an industry where there is a need for future leaders. The funds can be used toward tuition, books and fees for the 2022-23 academic year. Pudlo, who is enrolled in the Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, said several professors have been instrumental in opening his eyes to opportunities in the nuclear engineering field. “I am grateful for this scholarship, which will allow me to focus on my studies without the added pressure of working during the upcoming school year,” he said.

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Mary Lusk, left, and Ray Harvin ride in Mount Paran Christian School’s senior parade before graduation.

Mount Paran Honors 101 Graduates Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) recently graduated 101 seniors, including valedictorian Steven Baker and salutatorian Sarah McCune, at Turner Chapel AME Church. From the Class of 2022, 49 graduates chose to attend college in Georgia, and 51 students have chosen out-of-state schools. Before their graduation ceremony, the seniors were honored with the third annual senior parade — a newer tradition born out of the COVID-19 pandemic — in addition to senior chapel and honors night. Seniors and their families decorated their cars with balloons, streamers, posters and flags representing their colleges and paraded through the MPCS campus and neighboring subdivision, The Overlook, while teachers, staff, underclassmen and neighbors stationed along the route cheered them on.

Palmer Middle School Principal Retires

Lisa Jackson, principal at Palmer Middle School in Kennesaw for seven years, retired June 30 after 29 years as an educator — eight years as a middle school teacher and 21 years as an administrator. Before moving to Palmer, she served as principal at Pine Mountain Middle School in Kennesaw. Palmer, who lives in Marietta with her husband, received a great send-off from well-wishers. “As I was one of four [Palmer employees] retiring this year, we had a fun celebration at Miller Ale House, where lots of former staff and families came to celebrate,” she said. “We then had an end-of-theyear celebration luncheon at school. Eco Tech and Miller Ale sponsored the lunch for us.” As a retiree, Palmer will be traveling, spending time with her family and volunteering in the community. She also is a member of the Kennesaw Business Association and serves as co-chair of the education committee.

Cobb Schools Announces Valedictorians, Salutatorians The seven valedictorians and salutatorians from Harrison, Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb high schools boasted GPAs above 4.7. At Harrison, Haley Armor was named valedictorian, with a GPA of 4.727, and salutatorian Jasmin Salazar Haley Armor wasn’t far behind with a 4.714 GPA. Armor will be attending the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she will be studying environmental engineering, and Salazar plans to attend Emory University to major in pre-med/human health. Kennesaw Mountain had two valedictorians. Paige Woodham and Jessica Chu tied for the honor of top scholar with GPAs of 4.765, and the salutatorian was Soumit Guntupalli, who had a GPA of 4.746. All three Paige Woodham graduates plan to attend Georgia Tech, where Woodham will major in chemical and biomedical engineering, Chu will major in industrial engineering, and Guntupalli will major in biochemistry. North Cobb High’s valedictorian was Natalie Joseph, with a GPA of 4.781. The salutatorian was William Green, who had a 4.774 GPA. Both will attend Georgia Tech, with Joseph majoring in computer science and Green majoring in business. Overall, Cobb’s valedictorians had Soumit Guntupalli an average GPA of about 4.7, and the salutatorians were only a few tenths of a point behind them. Three valedictorians and two salutatorians from Cobb high schools posted GPAs higher than 4.8, and 12 valedictorians and 11 salutatorians earned GPAs above 4.7. About 15 valedictorians and salutatorians are planning to attend Georgia Tech, and the rest are attending such prestigious schools as Princeton University, Emory University, the University of Georgia, the California Institute of Technology and Boston University. They plan to study majors ranging from environmental engineering, industrial engineering and aerospace engineering to pre-medicine, biology, neuroscience and international business.

Jasmin Salazar

Jessica Chu

Natalie Joseph

William Green

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Senior Activities

Cobb Senior Services

Registration is required for all activities; no walk-ins allowed. Call the center to register, or visit www.MyActiveCenter.com.

WEST COBB SENIOR CENTER

NORTH COBB SENIOR CENTER

4915 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs • 770-528-8200 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services/ west-cobb-senior-center

4100 S. Main St., Acworth • 770-975-7740 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services/ north-cobb-senior-center

July 8

July 7

month, see a newly released movie. Call for the title.

Noon-2 p.m. Learn about gardens designed for the moonlight. $3.

Reel Good Movies. 1-3 p.m. On the second Friday of the

July 8, 15, 22

Food for Thought: Moon Gardens.

Tech Talk: iPhone Basics. 10 a.m.-noon. In this three-week

July 12-13, 19-20

July 11

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. each day. Receive hands-on training in painting on glass. $15 supply fee to instructor.

class, learn the basics of operating an iPhone.

Friends of West Cobb Hot Dog Fundraiser. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Enjoy a grilled hot dog and play cornhole and other outdoor games. Benefits the senior center. $5.

Crafting Corner: Painting on Glass.

July 12

Game Show Afternoon. 1-2 p.m. Compete in

July 12

“Wheel of Fortune.”

garden using containers.

Ice Cream Social. 12:30-2 p.m. Enjoy a dish of ice

Container Gardening 101. 10-11 a.m. Learn how to create a

July 14

cream and good conversation. $1.

July 20

Tinnitus. 10-11 a.m. Find out about the causes of ringing in the

July 19

July 22

a.m. Catch some fireflies during this fun card game.

ears and what to do about it.

Headaches Workshop. Noon-1 p.m. Learn about the different types of headaches and treatment options during a virtual presentation at the center.

July 26

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body. 10-11 a.m. Discover strategies for aging well in areas like physical health, diet, cognitive activity and social engagement.

July 27

Walk West Cobb: Sope Creek Park. 9:30-11 a.m. This month,

explore the park at 3760 Paper Mill Road in Marietta.

VETERAN CONNECTION Meets the third Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the West Cobb Senior Center and the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at North Cobb Senior Center. Join veterans 55 and older for an informal get-together with coffee, doughnuts, camaraderie and special guest presentations. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for more information. 48

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Learn a New Game: Catching Fireflies. 10-11

July 25

Picnic and Birthday Social. Noon-2 p.m.,

Cauble Park. Bring a lunch to celebrate National Picnic Month and July birthdays.

July 26

Paint ’n’ Party. 9 a.m.-noon. Paint a masterpiece with no experience needed and all supplies included. $3.

July 27

Culinary Creations: Blueberries. 1-2 p.m. Find out about blueberries and see a demonstration on making lemon blueberry bars. $3.

July 28

Armchair Travels: Bulgaria Beauty. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn about one of the gems of Europe.

July 29

Art-ivity: Under the Milky Way Painting. 1-2 p.m. Create the Milky Way behind a silhouette of trees on a black poster board.

@ the Library

Cobb County Public Library System www.cobbcat.org

WEST COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw • 770-528-4699 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays

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

July 12-13, 19-20

Stop by for family storytime, to dance, sing, read stories and make new friends. Activities are most suitable for children ages 5 and under, with a participating adult; however, all ages are welcome. The same books and activities are offered at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week. Registration is not required.

July 14

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

Teen Book Fold begins at 2 p.m. Teens will create a

unique piece of art by folding book pages. Books will be provided. Registration is required.

July 16

Make a paper lei craft, 10:30 a.m.-noon. “Moana” will

be playing during the craft program. Everyone is welcome. Registration is not required.

July 21

Thursday Explorers meet on the first and third Thursdays

of each month. Ages 4-7 are welcome to enjoy a different activity at every meeting. This month, join the Cobb County Water System, 10:30-11:30 a.m., to learn about the journey of water. Registration is required.

July 25

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

July 26

Drop in for LEGOmania, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to create structures and complete a LEGO challenge card. Registration is not required.

July 11

Family Movie Night: “Turning Red” (rated PG) begins at 6 p.m. in the children’s department program room. Bring your family, a pillow, blanket and snacks.

July 12-13

The Art Experience is a two-day program that meets the

second Tuesday and Wednesday of each month (excluding September) at 6 p.m. Ages 18-plus can join Leslie Robb in exploring different styles and mediums of art. Registration is required. All supplies provided.

July 12, 19

Tuesday Family Storytime is 10:30-11 a.m. and 11:30

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

July 12-14, 19-21

North Cobb Play Cafe is 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Weather

permitting, drop by the North Cobb Library amphitheater on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for self-directed outdoor play stations. No reservation required. Bring your own snacks. For ages 18 months-7 years old.

July 13, 20

Wednesday Family Storytime is 10:30-11 a.m. All ages

are invited for songs, stories and rhymes that enhance early literacy and social skills. Registration is required, and space is limited. Registration for the following week’s storytime will open at 10 a.m. each Thursday.

July 14, 21, 28

Meetup for Adults With Special Needs will take place

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

Aug. 6

Cross-Stitch Meetup, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., is the first Saturday of the month. Meet others with a love of cross-stitch; bring what you are working on, along with lunch or snacks, or start something new. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Around & About 16

The annual Fishing Rodeo for ages 3-16 will be held 9-11 a.m. at Lost Mountain Park, 4845 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs. Entry fee is $5 per child. For information, visit bit.ly/3M3R6N4 or call John Purcell at 770-528-8825. To register, visit www.cobbcounty.org/parks. Volunteers also are needed to help. If interested, email Anne.Norton@ cobbcounty.org or call 770-528-8819.

AUGUST

12 Born Again Blessings JULY

Grand Prix 09 SeriesKennesaw 11 Races The

will be held the second Saturday of each month, except for August, in front of Kennesaw First Baptist Church at 2958 N. Main St. The July race will benefit The Dave Krache Foundation, which allows local kids in need to play the sports they love. Future races and the organizations they benefit are:

Sept. 10: The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in downtown Kennesaw. Oct. 8: Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw. Nov. 12: Wounded veterans. https://kennesawgrandprix.com/ faq/

Bonsai curator Rodney Clemons leads a Bonsai Study Group the second Saturday of each month, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (lunch, noon-1 p.m.) at Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw. Visitors are welcome to ask questions and talk with Clemons and the volunteers about this ancient art. Participation is included with garden admission. AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Mount Paran Christian School has two weeks of full-day and half-day summer camps remaining for students in rising grades pre-K3-12. July 11-15, July 18-22. Kids can participate in fishing, cooking, pottery, dance, baking, sports, math and makerspace camps as well as an Atlanta Falcons football camp. For information or to register, visit mtparanschool.com/ summerprograms or call 770-578-0182.

Business 15 Association Summer The fourth annual

SHowdown! 2022 (BASSH!),

1-4 p.m. at Swift-Cantrell Park, is a family-friendly event where business associations compete against each other in field-day games. Presented by Piedmont Injury Law, BASSH! 2022 will feature food, entertainment, prizes and giveaways. Admission is free, and sponsorships are available. All proceeds and donations will benefit the Tommy Nobis Center. Visit https://bit.ly/3xJY8Bp to register.

children’s consignment sale will be Aug. 12-13 from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday at RiverStone Church, 2005 Stilesboro Road in Kennesaw. The sale will feature children’s and maternity clothes, shoes, toys, nursery items, baby equipment, furniture and more. Firsttime moms can sign up for early shopping privileges. www.bornagainblessings.com.

19 BBQ Festival Pigs & Peaches The 21st annual

will return to Adams Park in Kennesaw Aug. 1920 from 6-10 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday. Presented by Williams Elleby Law Firm, the two-day event will include a barbecue competition, nonstop music, dance groups, a kid zone, fireworks, good food and vendors. www.kennesaw-ga. gov/pigsandpeaches/.

RECREATION

GENERAL

The Battery Atlanta

Art House Happenings

Yoga by Kaiser Permanente, 6:30-7:30 p.m.,

Through July 30

The Battery Atlanta Walking Trail

artwork and photography based on something “local” — local to Acworth, to Cobb County, to Georgia. An artist reception is scheduled for July 9, 4-7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. This event is free and open to the public.

Mondays

www.acworthartsalliance.org.

is a free outdoor yoga class for all ages on the Plaza Green. Participants are required to bring a mat and encouraged to bring water. Register at batteryatlyoga2022.eventbrite.com.

“Local Inspirations” is an exhibit featuring

A brisk walk can curb cravings, reduce stress and offer a healthy way to catch up with friends and family. Get active on the 1.5-mile loop circling the campus.

Parks and Recreation

Visit www.kennesaw-ga.gov/parks-and-recreation to register.

Through July 9

BYOB (Beat Your Opponent Back), 1-3 p.m. July 9 at Ben Robertson Community Center, is a self-defense class for ages 4-60.

Through July 21

July 15

The submission deadline for the “Ordinary to Extraordinary — Juried Art Exhibit” is midnight. This exhibit opens Aug. 6, with a reception from 4-7 p.m. An awards reception is planned for Sept. 3 from 4-7 p.m. Receptions are free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be available. Visit acworthartsalliance.org/guidelines for more information.

All Summer

Register for summer classes and workshops offered by the Acworth Arts Alliance. Classes and workshops for kids and adults take place at the Art House in downtown Acworth. www.acworthartsalliance.org/classes.

Pottery: Hand Building and Wheel Class,

Marietta History Center

Through July 28

Aug. 13: Cemetery Preservation with Christa McCay Oct. 1: Historic Architecture with Marietta Monaghan

5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. every Thursday at the Ben Robertson Community Center, is for beginning to advanced potters ages 18 and older.

Little Dragons Taekwondo, 5:30-6 p.m.

Thursdays at the Ben Robertson Community Center, will help ages 4-7 learn hand and eye coordination, balance and confidence.

First Friday Concert Series

The free series runs through October (no concert in July), 7-9:30 p.m., at the downtown pedestrian underpass off Main Street. 770-422-9714.

Aug. 5: Sept. 2: Oct. 7:

Outside The Perimeter Band Justin Borgman Band TBA

Outdoor Movie Series

Swift-Cantrell Park will present its last free outdoor movie this summer, 6-10 p.m. For questions or information on VIP tents, call 770-422-9714.

July 23:

“Sing 2” (PG)

On Doing History presentations begin at 2 p.m. www.mariettahistory.org.

FARMERS MARKETS Through Aug. 1

The Kennesaw Farmers Market is open 3:307:30 p.m. Mondays at Depot Park. Applications for vendors for the 2022 season are being accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis. For more information, email kennesawfarmersmarket@gmail.com, or visit https://forms.gle/T1LQBjqTgLE2gVSJA.

Through Oct. 28

The Acworth Farmers Market is open 8 a.m.-noon Fridays rain or shine at Logan Farm Park at the main entrance. Applications for vendors for the 2022 season are being accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis. For more information or an application, visit https://bit.ly/3zTv1OB AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Cobb Photographic So

Color

Kerry Maxwell - First Place (Seed Pods and Sunlight)

Mark Buckert - Third Place (Emerging)

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Umit Yuksel - Second Place (Shaft of Light)

ociety

Congratulations to all who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for May was “Lighting.” The guest judge was photographer John Pederson. The Cobb Photographic Society is a photography club open to photographers of all skill levels. The club meets the first and third Monday of each month. For details, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.

Monochrome

Umit Yuksel - First Place (Out of Whack)

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

Advertisers

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

July 2022

ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS 25

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

1, 23

BOAT RENTALS Paradise Rental Boats 3 770-746-0005 www.bestinboating.com/boat-rentals BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Kennesaw Business Association www.kennesawbusiness.org

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue 770-272-6888 www.mostlymutts.org/volunteer

Must Ministries www.mustministries.org

Red Baryl Portraits 815-540-0936

Lake Allatoona Poker Run www.allatoonapokerrun.com

Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

Smith-Gilbert Gardens Inside front 770-919-0248 www.smithgilbertgardens.com FINANCIAL SERVICES BluTree Advantage 470-481-0363 www.blutreeadvantage.com Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org LGE Credit Union www.lgeccu.org

17, 23

Stretch Zone Cover, 28-29 770-485-7333 www.stretchzone.com/locations HOME & GARDEN

EDUCATION SERVICES Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com

Kennesaw Grand Prix Inside front Series 2022 www.kennesawgrandprix.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

Custom Craftsmen Design 678-851-2549

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

Greenlight Acting Studios 470-613-8686 www.greenlightactingstudios.com

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

Kennesaw Driving School 770-424-9111 www.kennesawdrivingschool.com

Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

Primrose School of Bells Ferry 770-928-5683 www.primroseschools.com/schools/ bells-ferry

PEST CONTROL One Dead Bug 678-770-5699 www.onedeadbug.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES 5, 27

North Atlanta Dermatology 770-814-8222 www.naderm.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES 22one Realty Co. 770-485-3928 www.22onerealty.com

Keller Williams Realty, Joannie Bates Cell: 678-788-6465 Office: 678-631-1700 www.joanniebatessells.com

Lake Nantahala Homesite Auction 888-861-0999 www.internationalauctionllc.com

SK Home Inspections 770-819-8453 www.skhomeinspections.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

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

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

Back cover

Daybreak Village 770-218-6166 www.daybreakvillage.com

Inside back

AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM 54

For advertising rates and information | Kim Dahnke 770-778-5314 | kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

AROUND KENNESAW | July 2022

7-22 Around Kennesaw webfinal.pdf

Articles inside

Library Events

Cobb Photographic Society

Senior Events

School News

Local News

Jennifer Bonn

Farm Fresh

Ryan Blythe

Celebrations

Andrew Bramlett

Brittani Farmer

Bill Westenberger

Pages 28

Around Kennesaw

Dana Dorris

Never Too Old

Priceless Possessions

Elisabeth Stubbs

Derek Easterling