Cherokee Ledger Monthly - August 2025

Fall is around the corner

Welcome back to the Cherokee Ledger.

Summer might be winding down soon, but there are plenty of things to do in and around Cherokee County.

August means the return of school for kids here in Cherokee. Families are checking school supply lists, meeting teachers at open houses and more ahead of the new academic year.

Near the start of the school year is another annual tradition in Cherokee: the Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5K in Canton. In our cover story, learn more about this road race that raises money for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics. If you sign up, you’ll be joining runners supporting not one, but two good causes. And if you dress up as a cow, you might win free Chick-filA for a year.

news happening after press time for this issue, so please check our website, www. tribuneledgernews.com, for the latest election coverage.

Also in this issue, county and city leaders have begun discussions on a potential new sales tax of up to 1%. County officials say a Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, which would have to be approved by voters, could generate revenues to make some much-needed improvements to roads throughout the county.

In Sports, check out the All-Cherokee County baseball honors decided on by local coaches, and features on the Player, Pitcher and Coach of the Year.

Our Health story this month is about Chris and Nicole Russell from Woodstock, who recently ran the Peachtree Road Race after collectively losing an impressive 143 pounds.

Publisher

Lee B. g Arrett

Managing Editor shAnnon BALLeW

VP of Content Jk MurPhy

Writers

grIFFIn CALLAghAn ryLee hoLLAnd ethAn Johnson dr. BeAtrIX ohIenMhen MArCIA WInChester

VP of Advertising BoB MCCrAy

Circulation Director dAVe gossett

VP of Production doug CroW

Photographers

ryLee hoLLAnd

AngIe MArtIn roBIn rAyne

Anthony stALCuP JACk tusZynskI

Layout & Design

August can bring some of the hottest days of the year, so check the weather before you head out and make sure to drink plenty of water, even if you aren’t thirsty.

It’s also election season here in Cherokee for two special elections: the Cherokee County commissioner race for District 1 and the Georgia Senate race for District 21 to replace former state Sen. Brandon Beach.

In this issue, you can read about candidates for county commissioner who participated in a recent forum in Ball Ground.

There are other forums and more election

And in the Cherokee Scene, there are photos from Fourth of July parades in Woodstock and Canton, and from the Juneteenth celebration at The Mill on Etowah.

For even more local news, you can check out the Cherokee Tribune, our website www. tribuneledgernews.com, and the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger podcast.

Shannon Ballew Managing Editor

JustIn grIFFIn, JennIFer BroWn, PhILIP CLeMents

On the Cover

Ahead of the Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5k, Jack tuszynski photographed Chick-fil-A franchise operators, special olympics athletes and the director of the Cherokee County educational Foundation. A complete listing of those in the photo can be found on page 8.

Volume 2, Issue 8

Community News

♦ Cherokee County commissioner candidates meet voters, 4

♦ Cherokee considers new sales tax to for road improvements, 6

♦ News in Brief, 7

Cover Story

♦ 5K raises money for a good cause, sees remarkable growth, 8

Opinion

♦ Perspectives, 11

♦ Soapbox, 13

Dining

thrives in Cherokee, 17

♦ Community Events, 18

♦ Letters to the Editor, 12

♦ Cajun restaurant opening, 14

Entertainment & Community Events

♦ American Mah Jongg group

Sports

♦ Cherokee county’s top baseball player, 21

♦ Cherokee County’s top pitcher, 22

♦ Cherokee County’s top baseball coach, 23

♦ Reinhardt promotes assistant baseball coach Brett Lindsey to

the lead post, 24

Health

♦ Woodstock couple runs Peachtree Road Race after having lost a collective 143 pounds, 26

♦ What to expect when your child visits the pediatrician, 27

Cherokee Social Scene

♦ Woodstock celebrates the Fourth of July, 29

♦ Canton celebrates Independence Day, 30

♦ Juneteenth Celebration, 31

Gardening

♦ August Gardening tips, 32

Puzzles

♦ Crossword and Sudoku, 33

Business

♦ Service Directory, 34

Ballew

Cherokee County commissioner candidates meet voters

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

Ball Ground — Several candidates running for Cherokee County commissioner to represent District 1 met voters at a political forum July 10 at the Wheeler House in Ball Ground to answer questions about topics including affordable housing, taxes and infrastructure.

The special election for the District 1 commissioner race is Aug. 26. The commission seat was vacated by former Commissioner Steve West, who resigned to run for the Georgia Senate District 21 seat formerly held by U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach.

District 1 generally covers north Cherokee County and includes Ball Ground, Waleska and parts of Canton.

Candidates running for this seat who were in attendance at the July 10 forum included Republicans Jonathan Browning, Will Cagle, Justin Page, Robert Ridley and Rick Whiteside.

Also running for the seat but not present at the forum is Democrat Charles Ravenscraft.

Browning, who works in commercial concrete construction, said he is running to maintain the great aspects of Cherokee County while focusing on the people who call the county home right now.

priorities. It’s time to ‘Turn the Page.’” Ridley, a local business owner, said he is running because he loves Cherokee County and wants to help make sure the county grows responsibly, adding that he wants to help bring businesses to the county.

“I am really concerned how this county is growing right now, and zonings are the main thing I want to address and look at — once you screw up zonings, you can’t fix it. We also have to do everything we can to control costs and development,”

Ridley said. “I want to give the best value to our taxpayers and let them know that their money will be spent to help improve our community. We need good roads and to continue to support our first responders.”

Whiteside, a longtime Cherokee resident and a member of the county’s planning commission, said he wants to preserve Cherokee’s rural character, support law enforcement, keep taxes low and improve roads and infrastructure.

“I want to focus on smart budget control and transparency, smart development and smart conservative spending that protects us as a whole — I will al-

ways seek the best future for our kids and residents,” Browning said. “I will bring common sense and a conservative approach to this board through responsible spending, smart development that protects Cherokee County and maintains the values of what makes our community great. It’s also important to find incentives to help our first responders, teachers and nurses find affordable housing.”

Cagle, a small business owner and seventh-generation Cherokee County resident, said he is running because he wants to lead by example, and emphasized that he is not going anywhere and wants to serve the people of Cherokee County.

“I am running because of taxes and traffic — our property taxes are skyrocketing and our roads need work,” he said. “I also want to control strategic growth, reduce regulations that drive housing prices and focus on affordable housing for teachers and first responders. We should be looking for alternative ways to offset or even eliminate property taxes. There are ways in District 1 to come up with affordable housing.”

Page, a fourth-generation Cherokee County resident, former pastor and businessman, said he is running for this seat to help shape the future of the community that he loves and calls home.

“I am a country boy born and raised in the Macedonia area of Cherokee. I have a desire in my heart to be a voice for the people in this community,” Page said. “The decisions that we make on this board will affect my 6-year-old son and all of the other children in this county and the generations to follow. We have to stop the overdevelopment and saying yes to every developer with a checkbook. And we need to continue to make public safety and first responders one of the top

“Cherokee County is the best place to live, work and play and I want to ensure it grows responsibly,” Whiteside said. “I will use my experiences, including my time serving on the planning commission, to think about all aspects of potential incoming projects, like how they affect our roads, stormwater and utilities and how to better manage these projects.”

ROADS AND HOUSING

Two major points of discussion were roads and affordable housing.

Cagle said Cherokee’s road network needs improving and that the county needs money from the Georgia Department of Transportation to help fund these projects. On housing, Cagle said it’s important that first responders and teachers are able to live in Cherokee. He said his son, a Cherokee County firefighter, can’t afford a home in the county on his salary.

“About 27% of the cost of a home is government regulations and fees. I want to reduce these ridiculous requirements, cut red tape and get the government out of the way and allow the free market to work,” Cagle said.

Page said Cherokee County is Georgia’s seventh-most populated county and continues to grow, leading to more strain on the infrastructure. He said the county’s roads have not kept up with the growth and that he would push for a temporary pause on all “high-density housing” where the infrastructure is not in place.

Page also said that “one size fits all policy” on affordable housing will not work in Cherokee and it’s important to bring the correct type of affordable housing that matches the area.

Ridley said the county is behind and struggling to keep up with its road plan, which is something that needs to be focused on. He added that he would like to keep higher density areas in the cities rather than unincorporated Cherokee and look at the budget for ways to help

ethan Johnson

Cherokee County Commission District 1 candidates Jonathan Browning, Will Cagle, Justin Page, Robert Ridley and Rick Whiteside participated in a forum at the Wheeler House on July 10.

I’LL PROTECT OUR SENIOR AND DISABLED PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS

I WON’T TAKE A PENNY FROM LOBBYISTS OR SPECIAL INTERESTS

I’LL PROPOSE A FLOATING HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION WITH NO OPTOUT

I’LL FIGHT FOR SECURE, FAIR, LEGAL VOTING IN GEORGIA

I’LL PRIORITIZE STUDENTS FIRST IN OUR SCHOOL SYSTEM

I’LL OPPOSE ANY ATTEMPT TO EXPAND GAMBLING

Cherokee considers new sales tax to fund road improvements

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

Cherokee County and city leaders are discussing whether to ask citizens to vote yes or no to either a half penny or full penny sales tax to help fund transportation infrastructure improvements.

Leaders and representatives of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and the cities of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Mountain Park, Nelson, Waleska and Woodstock met at the Cherokee County Conference Center in Canton June 30 for the “T-SPLOST Kick-off” meeting.

The proposed Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or TSPLOST, would be a new sales tax of either 0.5% or 1%, specifically for funding transportation projects.

Such a tax would have to be approved by Cherokee County voters in a referendum.

Officials discussed various topics including possible transportation projects for inclusion in a T-SPLOST referendum, the collection and distribution of sales tax and next steps.

The county and cities are expected to continue these discussions in the coming weeks. If the county and cities can agree on and approve individual intergovernmental agreements by early August, the question of whether to implement the TSPLOST could be placed on the ballot for the November election.

A six-year full penny T-SPLOST could bring in $290.5 million in sales tax revenue, assuming a 2% growth rate of receipts, or $313.5 million if it’s a 4% growth rate, according to the county.

A six-year half penny T-SPLOST at a 2% growth rate could bring in $145.2 million, and at a 4% rate could bring in $156.7 million.

Before the question can be put to voters, the cities and county have to agree on what road projects would be advertised to be completed with the funds raised through this new proposed sales tax, as well as how the funding would be distrib-

FORUM

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improve infrastructure.

Ridley also said that property values are too high in Cherokee County and that trying to add affordable housing will bring in more traffic and strain on the infrastructure. He pointed to the cities as places where potential affordable housing could go.

Whiteside said the county does not have adequate support for roads. He said a potential HOST or T-SPLOST would help provide funding for road improvements and projects throughout the county. Whiteside also said it’s important to continue to receive funding from GDOT for road projects.

Whiteside added that the county should

Leaders and representatives of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and the cities of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Mountain Park, Nelson, Waleska and Woodstock met at the Cherokee County Conference Center in Canton June 30 for the “TSPLOST Kick-off” meeting.

uted among the municipalities.

The current SPLOST distribution, based on population, is: 65.27% of revenues go to the county, 13.59% to Woodstock, 12.73% to Canton, 6.52% to Holly Springs, 1.03% to Ball Ground, 0.5% to Nelson and 0.36% to Waleska.

County representatives said a similar distribution formula could be used for a potential T-SPLOST.

County Manager Geoff Morton passed around a list of proposed projects that this new sales tax could fund, if agreed to by the cities and then approved by voters. This list of projects could change in the coming weeks after further discussions.

The list included over 40 projects that could be funded through a six-year half penny T-SPLOST and 80 projects that could be funded through a six-year full penny T-SPLOST.

Proposed projects include various intersection improvements, resurfacing and widening projects throughout Cherokee.

follow its land use plan, even if the plan doesn’t allow for affordable housing in District 1. He added that growth and annexations belong in and close to the cities.

Browning said housing should be built in areas where infrastructure is in place that can handle it, pointing to the Bluffs in Canton as an example. In rural areas that don’t have the stormwater, sewer and roads, he said, such development would make traffic worse. He said the airport is a great way to expand tax revenue for infrastructure improvements. He also said he supports affordable housing that reflects the county’s planning and zoning plan and matches the character of the area.

“We need incentives, not mandates for smart affordable housing,” he said, adding that tax credits could be offered to county employees who live in Cherokee.

Major roads and intersections listed include Towne Lake Parkway, East Cherokee Drive, Holly Springs Parkway, Old Highway 5, Sixes Road, Bells Ferry Road, Butterworth Road, Technology Ridge Parkway, Highway 140, Highway 20, Highway 92 and the creation of the proposed Ball Ground Bypass.

A few of the potential projects listed include:

♦ I-575 interchange improvements at Towne Lake Parkway.

♦ Improvements to intersections along East Cherokee Drive.

♦ Improvements to intersections along Highway 140, as well as widening Highway 140 from East Cherokee Drive to Charles Cox Road.

♦ Widen Butterworth Road from two to four lanes from Highway 20 to Bells Ferry Road and Bells Ferry Road to Old Highway 5.

♦ Create a four-lane section on Holly Springs Parkway/Old Highway 5 from

ELECTIONS

Candidates were asked what they think the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners can do to support transparency and confidence in the county’s voting system.

Whiteside said it’s important to support the Cherokee County Board of Elections, as well as the state legislature as they move forward in helping improve election integrity. He emphasized that it’s important to make sure the elections board has proper funding and backing so they can do their jobs.

Browning said it’s important to verify voting machine counts by hand, adding that it’s also important to educate voters on the process from start to finish on how votes are counted.

“Trust but verify,” he said.

Cagle said he supports having an elections board with a 3-1 Republican majority to reflect Cherokee’s mostly Republican voters. The Cherokee County GOP and other local

Sixes Road to East Cherokee Drive, and then East Cherokee Drive to Ridgewalk Parkway.

♦ Technology Ridge Parkway Phases Two and Three, which would create a connection from Fate Conn Road to Airport Spur. This is one of the projects that could be funded with a “full penny” T-SPLOST.

‘I DON’T THINK OUR ROADS CAN WAIT FIVE YEARS’

County officials say a T-SPLOST would address a gap between Cherokee’s transportation needs and available local funds.

“We have road needs that we don’t have funds for,” Cherokee County Commission Chairman Harry Johnston said. “We have been struggling to keep up with our roads — both resurfacing and general road improvements such as intersection improvements and widening.”

If it’s not on the ballot in November, Johnston told county and city representatives that the next election year that the county and cities could present a new sales tax to voters will be 2030 due to renewal referendums for the existing SPLOST and Education SPLOST.

“I don’t think our roads can wait five years,” he said.

Canton Mayor Bill Grant asked why county leaders view the half penny option as better than the full penny tax. Johnston said the half penny will be “significantly easier to sell to the voters.”

City representatives said any kind of new tax will be a hard sell to voters.

According to the county, a half-penny sales tax would provide funding for right of way acquisition and preliminary engineering in most cases. A full penny sales tax is expected to fund transportation projects through completion of construction.

County and city leaders agreed to further discuss the distribution percentages, the most important road improvement projects that would be funded through the T-SPLOST, cost estimates for projects and any additional information that’s needed.

conservative groups unsuccessfully lobbied last year for commissioners to change the elections board’s political makeup to a 3-1 GOP majority.

The elections board is currently made up of two Republicans and two Democrats who are appointed by county commissioners, plus the board chair, Republican Glenn Johnson. The chair is appointed by the other elections board members.

Page said he feels it’s important that voters have confidence in the elections board that their vote matters. He also said he wants to look into every aspect of the county’s budget and make sure the board spends every dollar in the right place and prioritizes that taxpayer’s money.

Ridley also said he supports a 3-1 GOP majority for the elections board, plus a Republican board chair, adding that Cherokee is about 75% Republican. He added that the voter rolls need to be up to date.

NEWS AROUND CHEROKEE COUNTY NEWS

CHEROKEE COMMITS $2M TO HELP PRESERVE PINE LOG WMA

Cherokee County leaders have committed $2 million to help aid the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ purchase of Pine Log Wildlife Management Area property.

The 14,000-acre property, mostly in Bartow County, includes land in west Cherokee County. The Cherokee portion is about 2,500 acres.

It was open as a wildlife management area for over 40 years, but it’s been closed to the public since 2023 when the Georgia DNR’s lease expired.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the financial commitment June 17. The commitment is contingent on an acceptable intergovernmental agreement between the county and GDNR that would need to be approved by commissioners, according to the county.

“Some three years ago now, the Neel family that owns that property and had it under lease to DNR declined to renew the lease and put the property up for sale. DNR wanted to buy it and has been negotiating to buy most of it — the family wants to retain some of it for development purposes, but they are willing to sell most of it,” Chairman Harry Johnston said.

Johnston said both parties have renewed negotiations and are within about $10 million of coming to an agreement.

“Bartow County has pledged $5 million toward helping close that gap, and they’ve asked us what we can do,” Johnston said. “I’ve told them I don’t think we can go $5 million, but that I would discuss with this board the possibility of making some commitment toward helping close that remaining $10 million gap. We wouldn’t own the property, we would just help facilitate keeping that as a wildlife management area as it’s been for many years as a natural resource for both counties.”

Commissioner Benny Carter described the property as “an excellent parcel of green space.”

“It’s larger than Bartow and Cherokee Counties — it’s really a regional resource and we need to do all we can to preserve that,” he said.

CHEROKEE COUNTY HEARING FROM RESIDENTS ABOUT PROPERTY TAX RATE

Cherokee County leaders are hearing from residents about the proposed millage rate that will determine property taxes.

After initially advertising a proposal to increase the millage rate, Cherokee County leaders have proposed a reduced budget to keep the millage rate flat.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners held its first public hearing on the millage rate July 15.

Commissioners are set to hold a second public hearing on the millage rate at 11 a.m. Aug. 5, and a final public hearing at 6 p.m. later that day before they hold a vote. The hearings will be at the Cherokee

County Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton.

The county previously advertised an increased maintenance and operations millage rate of 5.307 mills, but since then officials have proposed holding the rate steady at 5.153 mills.

Cherokee County property taxes are divided into three categories: the largest is maintenance and operations, or M&O, and the two smaller categories are fire and parks bond.

The proposed fire millage rate is 2.888 mills, the same as last year, and the proposed parks bond rate is 0.26, the county reports. Together, the total millage rate would be 8.301 mills.

Cherokee County’s homestead exemption holds a property’s assessed value steady so that it does not increase taxes for the M&O portion even if the market value increases. And under the state’s new floating homestead exemption, property value increases will not affect the county’s fire tax.

Since advertising the increased M&O millage rate, the county has reduced the proposed budget to keep the rate flat. The county will consider the budget in September.

The cuts included funding for the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office to fill vacant positions and a reduction in funds for a compensation program aimed at retaining officers.

For the county’s full July 15 millage rate presentation, visit tinyurl.com/ehbwkdnt.

‘AN EXCELLENT INVESTMENT’: WOODSTOCK OKS $85.8M BUDGET

Woodstock leaders have approved an $85.8 million budget for the 2026 fiscal year, which includes continued work on Little River Park.

On June 16, the Woodstock City Council unanimously approved a third and final reading of the city’s $85.8 million budget for the 2026 fiscal year.

The city originally proposed funding 12 new firefighter positions through a little

over $400,000 in general fund reserves, but this use of reserves was eliminated. City representatives say they are looking for potential alternative funding opportunities, which could be brought back to the city council for consideration at a later date.

crease of 4% that started July 1. It allocates a little over $2 million for capital projects. The stormwater budget is $1.5 million. The full budget is available online at https://www.woodstockga.gov/your_government/departments/finance_department/budget_information.php.

CANTON CONSIDERING $94.6M BUDGET, PROPERTY TAX CUT

Canton leaders are set to vote on a $94.6 million budget for fiscal year 2026 in August, and will also consider a reduced millage rate.

On July 17, the Canton City Council held the first of two public hearings on the proposed budget. The second public hearing is set for Aug. 7.

Canton Mayor Bill Grant said additional funding in the budget will allow the city to complete work on parks, infrastructure, water and sewer, and public safety.

“I am very proud of what we are presenting here. I think this is a great representation of what is a fiscally responsible budget while also making historic investments in our public safety, our infrastructure and the people who work here, and making sure we look out for the taxpayer of Woodstock,” Mayor Michael Caldwell said. “This is an excellent investment in Woodstock’s future.”

The city’s fiscal year began July 1 and ends June 30.

The budget represents an almost $5 million increase from the 2025 amended budget.

It includes a citywide 2% cost of living raise, which will go into effect in July, according to city documents. There will also an increased employee contribution of health insurance cost.

The city’s general fund is a little over $31.9 million. Recurring revenues are projected to be up by 2%.

Almost 48% of the general fund is dedicated to public safety: 27.1% for police — a little over $8.6 million — and 20.7% for fire, a little over $6.6 million. There is $275,290 more in funding for public safety than the amended FY2025 budget.

The fire department increase is primarily due to adding a fire captain training officer. The general fund also includes funding for an additional full-time position, a parks and recreation program manager, and a part-time municipal court bailiff.

The water and sewer budget is a little over $14 million, up $1 million from last year’s budget. It includes a water rate in-

“We continue to invest in our city to make it the best it can be,” Grant said. “At the same time, we are proposing a tax cut beyond a rollback to the lowest recorded millage rate in the city’s history — we are over 190 years old. I am proud of these accomplishments and look forward to continue working with this team to produce astounding results for our citizens at the lowest possible cost for these goods and services.”

The city’s fiscal year runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30.

The city’s proposed budget is $94,698,927. This includes a general fund budget of $30.5 million, a water and sewerage fund budget of $36.4 million, a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax budget of $17.2 million, an impact fee budget of $5 million, a hotel tax budget of $1.2 million, and an unassigned fund balance of $3.7 million.

The city’s budget team recommends the city council consider a property tax cut from the existing millage rate of 5.4 to 5.25.

This is lower than the city’s estimated “rollback rate” of 5.288.

The current general fund budget accounts for seven new positions: a procurement manager, a land development administrator, a special events coordinator and the annualization of four public safety ambassadors.

The proposed budget includes a 2.5% cost of living raise for all employees as well as an anniversary adjustment.

The proposed budget is online at tinyurl. com/ypuauune.

The city council will hold an additional public hearing at 6 p.m. Aug. 7 followed by potential adoption of the 2026 budget. The city council will adopt the millage rate alongside the budget. The meeting will take place at Canton City Hall, 110 Academy St. It can also be viewed online at canton.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

Courtesy of the Pinelog Preservation society

The Pine Log Wildlife Management Area.

Michael Caldwell

Bill Grant

MAKING AN IMPACT

North Georgia’s largest 5K supports Cherokee County Special Olympics, educational grants

n Event returns to Etowah River Park on August 16

By Rylee Holland rholland@ledgernews.com

Over the past 11 years the Chickfil-A Cherokee County 5K has raised over $400,000 for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics, and organizers are continuing these efforts with this year’s race.

The race is set for 8 a.m. Aug. 16 at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton. Organizers say it’s the largest 5K in North Georgia.

The first race was in 2014 and started out very small; it was held at The Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta in Woodstock, said Kevin Williams, franchise operator of three Canton area Chickfil-As. His stores are the locations at Canton Marketplace, Riverstone Parkway and Hickory Flat.

At the race’s beginning, there was only one local Chick-fil-A operator

involved, Keith Booth who operates the restaurant on Ridgewalk Parkway near the outlet mall. After the first year, other Chick-fil-A operators joined the event, including Williams who now leads the efforts.

Proceeds from the race have benefited the two nonprofits since the start.

“The beautiful thing is the road

race supports students,” Williams said. “Whether it’s the special education students that are served in this county by the Special Olympics or other students through the educational foundation.”

CCSO Coordinator Benjamin Farist

special/In sight Creative Photography

In this 2024 photo, runners participate in the Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5K.

kara Chatham — In sight Creative

In this 2023 photo, children run during the annual Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5K event.

Back row, from left to right: Chick-fil-A franchise operators Keith Booth of the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, Kevin Williams of the three Canton locations, Ron Hammock of Truett’s Chick-filA in Woodstock, and Scott Hall of the Towne Lake location and a Chick-fil-A cow.

Center: Lisa-Marie Haygood, executive director of the Cherokee County Educational Foundation.

Front row: Special Olympics athletes Leah Weatherby, Spencer Herrin and Caleb Guy.

IMPACT

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said the funds from the race help fund all his organization’s sports for the upcoming year.

“We’re also excited that some of the proceeds from this year’s 5K will help send one of our unified basketball teams to Minnesota in June 2026 for the Special Olympics USA Games,” Farist said in an email.

The mission of Cherokee County Special Olympics is to provide year-round training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, Farist said.

Lisa-Marie Haygood, the executive director of CCEF, said the foundation awards classroom impact grants with the funds received from the race.

“That means that we provide teacher grants up to $25,000,” Haygood said. “We have purchased things like digital telescopes…ukuleles for classrooms, we have done some career training grants for many of our high schools to support agriculture.”

The CCEF supports the efforts to raise awareness and access to funds for everyone in the Cherokee County School District, Haygood said.

On race day, Chick-fil-A aims to create a fun, family-friendly environment, Williams said.

“It’s everything from music to the Tshirts and T-shirt designs…we have a lot of chicken biscuits we’ll be giving out,” Williams said.

Runners are encouraged to dress as cows in honor of the Chick-fil-A mascot. They can enter a costume contest, in which the “most spirited cow” will receive free Chick-fil-A for a year, Williams said.

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The top three groups/organizations/ schools that get the most runners win a $500 grant. To participate in this contest, give a team name when signing up and have the team sign up with the same name on the drop down menu.

In addition to the 5K, there are other events: a one-mile “Calf Run” for all ages (geared toward young kids) and a “Nugget Roll” for 2-5-year-olds. The opportunity to sign up as a “Ghost Runner” is available for people who want to support without participating in the race day. Ghost Runners receive T-shirts as well.

Race organizers’ fundraising goal for the 2025 Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5K is to break $100,000.

“We continue to be North Georgia’s largest road race, and this year we are well on pace to have the most runners that we’ve ever had,” Williams said.

He said he expects over 3,000 people to participate in this year’s race.

Last year’s event saw 2,327 runners and raised $214,000, making a gross profit of $143,785, which was split evenly between the two beneficiaries, Williams said.

Williams said he thinks that in the near future, the event has a chance of expanding into multiple races.

“As Etowah River Park expansion comes in, I think there’s a chance to have a longer race,” he said.

The 5K race is set to start at 8 a.m. Aug 16, followed by the Calf Run at 9 a.m. and the Nugget Roll at 9:20 a.m.

The event will also feature a performance by North GA Cloggers before the 5K awards are presented.

The recognition awards for the 5K go to the overall winner both male and female, along with multiple age groups for both male and female.

This race is a Peachtree Road Race qualifying event.

To register or for more information, visit https://cherokeecounty5k.com.

PRINCIPAL AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

Letng Your Cash Sit

in

Savings? It’s Time for a Smarter Strategy

With a fair amount of uncertainty in the world and the economy, many investors are sitng on large amounts of cash. It might be a buildup in an investment account or an oversized emergency fund. Regardless of its purpose, letng money sit in a lowyield savings account earning 0.05 percent interest is a missed opportunity—especially when more rewarding, low-risk alternatves are readily available.

Interest rates, while of their peak, remain signifcantly higher than they’ve been for most of the past decade. Today’s investors can fnd high-yield savings accounts ofering up to 4.3 percent, one-year Treasury bonds yielding around 4 percent, and some banks ofering a litle more than 4% percent on a six-month CD. These are compelling rates for short-term, relatvely low-risk vehicles.

So, why aren’t more investors taking advantage of them? The most common hesitaton is liquidity. Investors tend to view money in investment accounts as locked away—untouchable unless they’re willing to sell at a loss or pay a penalty, leading to the assumpton that emergency funds must remain parked in traditonal savings accounts despite their negligible returns. However, this thinking is ofen misguided. Many don’t realize that funds held in a money market mutual fund can be sold on a Wednesday and be available in cash by Thursday. These vehicles ofer daily liquidity and typically higher yields than savings accounts, making them a solid opton for part of your emergency reserve.

The primary reason investors should want to put their idle cash to work is infaton. Infaton gradually erodes the purchasing power of money over tme. If emergency reserves are earning 0.5 percent interest while infaton runs at 3 percent, the real return is negatve, and the investor is efectvely losing 2.5 percent per year just by standing stll.

Another common misconcepton is that an emergency fund always must be held entrely in one place and in cash. I

frequently see investors with $100,000 sitng in a bank account earning almost nothing. If this sounds familiar, it may be tme to change your mindset. A more strategic approach would be to divide your emergency savings into thirds: onethird in a money market fund at your brokerage frm, one-third in a short-term CD or Treasury bond, and one-third in your savings account.

High-yield savings accounts are convenient and accessible, but they’re subject to rate fuctuatons—especially if the Fed begins to cut interest rates. Many of the advertsed high rates may be promotonal or require a minimum balance to qualify, so it’s important to understand the fne print.

Money market funds tend to ofer compettve yields with next-day access to your cash. We prefer government bond money market funds. While they aren’t FDIC-insured like traditonal savings accounts, the underlying holdings are backed by U.S. government securites, making them extremely secure.

Traditonal CDs and Treasury bonds ofer the ability to lock in rates for longer periods of tme. While selling early may result in a loss if interest rates have risen, you stll earn interest for the tme held—and if you hold to maturity, you’ll receive your full principal and interest.

By spreading your emergency savings across diferent types of accounts, you gain higher yields while maintaining liquidity. Even in a crisis, you can typically access your full funds within a few days. It’s the same $100,000—just working smarter across more efcient vehicles.

William G. Lako, Jr., CFP®, is a principal at Henssler Financial and a co-host on “Money Talks”—your trusted resource for your money, your future, your life— available on your favorite podcast platform or at HensslerMoneyTalks.com.

Mr. Lako is a Certifed Financial Planner™ professional.

kara Chatham/in sight Creative

Attendees are encouraged to dress as cows at the event.

Lois | Actual patient

LOCAL

COLUMNIST | REBECCA JOHNSTON

Revisiting camp meeting

Apiece of Cherokee County’s earliest history still comes to life each summer when camp meeting begins at Holbrook Campground in mid-July.

Begun in 1838, hundreds of worshippers still gather for 10 days of preaching, singing and fellowship on the site in east Cherokee County near the Free Home Community.

There an old wooden arbor stands on sacred ground shaded by a grove of mature oak trees and far removed from everyday life.

I was fortunate enough to attend those camp meetings each summer with my dear childhood friend Jeannie Lathem from the time I was about 9 years old until I graduated from Cherokee High School.

Camp meetings and the historic sites they created were a part of the Second Great Awakening, a religious movement from about 1790 to the 1830s in frontier towns across the frontier of the United States.

As Protestant settlers began to pour into the South and West where there were no churches, they would hold revival meetings in tents, particularly in the area that later became known as the Bible Belt.

Soon, all along the frontier camp meetings were being held each summer. The idea of gathering for spiritual renewal was popular with rural Georgians. As well as a time for spiritual renewal, camp meetings were also gathering grounds where families and friends could reunite.

The first camp meeting in Georgia is believed to have been held in 1803 when 3,000 people attended a revival in Hancock County.

COLUMNIST|LYNN GENDUSA

WThe movement grew rapidly, particularly among Methodists.

Here in Cherokee County, that first Holbrook Camp meeting in 1838 was held when a group of people who were probably members of several local churches came together to hold camp meeting.

The next year, Jesse C. Holbrook, a blacksmith, received 40 acres of land in exchange for shoeing a man’s horse with nails and shoes, according to the campground’s published history. Holbrook decided to donate the 40 acres to the Methodist Conference to be used as a campground.

I often think about what Cherokee County was like at that time. We were the frontier. Those who were coming in to settle the area were arriving along the Federal Highway, traveling down from the northern states and looking for land to claim.

Many had received land lots in a state lottery or because of their service in the American Revolution. My ancestors were among those who pushed into Georgia as it opened for settlement.

The year that camp meeting began in Cherokee County was also the tragic time of the Native Cherokee removal from these lands. In that dark chapter of our history, the federal government constructed removal forts, including Fort Buffington, ripped the native American Indians from their homes and marched them on what would become known as the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma for resettlement.

Back then most of the settlers lived in iso-

lation and their lives were demanding and difficult. The hard north Georgia clay was not easy to cultivate. Trading sites were few and far between. Canton was a growing town, but many farmers still lived lonely lives in rural outposts.

Camp meetings became festive affairs celebrated annually at a time when the crops had been harvested, and it provided a change from the rigorous labor of farm life.

In the earliest days at Holbrook Campground, the services were held in the open under the trees. Later a brush arbor was constructed, but it was soon too small. The next arbor was a gable-type arbor, but it was severely damaged in a storm in 1889. The present arbor was built in 1890 and still stands today encircled by 53 cabins.

Another 19 cabins form a half-circle outside of the full circle of cabins. The original campers came in wagons accompanied by their cow and chickens. Water was gathered from wells and a spring located on the property. As time passed, some of the campers built permanent cabins or “tents” as they were called.

Today the cabins are still referred to as “tents” even though most of the original cabins have been replaced. The cabins today range from small buildings with sawdust floors and one bathroom to wooden floors, several bedrooms and even air conditioning.

As times changed over the years, many camp meetings in Cherokee County and Georgia ceased to meet each year. But somehow Holbrook Campground survived. That is a

I’ve been thinking …

henever I start a sentence with, “I’ve been thinking…”, my friends and family can’t escape fast enough. My gym buddies suddenly claim to have pulled a muscle, and my husband rushes to take out the trash. One thing they all know is that I won’t be deterred from sharing what’s on my mind. Sometimes (actually, quite often), I find myself in trouble and regret overthinking things that I can do little about. However, I also recognize that sometimes God uses people with big mouths and active minds for a purpose.

A few weeks ago, I traveled back to the place where I was born. While visiting my family’s graves, I found myself reflecting on the past. When I began talking to them, I imagined my dad covering his ears and my brother shouting, “God, please keep her brain quiet!” But what I really wanted to say to those around me was, “Why didn’t I ask you more questions when I had the chance?” Why do we all regret not exploring the lives of those who loved us the most?

I recently wrote a story about civility in American culture. It was essentially an op-ed advocating for national unity and encouraging people to set aside partisan divisions for the greater good. The story was inspired by my own experiences and observations, and I hoped it would resonate with others. However, I received numerous comments, and I found that many people were arguing rudely with each other about which political party was the best or worst. This led me to think: why do we take something intended to promote unity and

instead turn it into divisive, hateful political rhetoric? I suppose it only proves the point that “we only hear what we want to hear.”

I’ve been contemplating something important: Why is it acceptable to post such egregious and horrific comments on social media when most people would never say those things to a friend in person? I suppose they forget that God observes their words and that there is always accountability for what we say. Right?

Why do we tend to accept hatred more than love? I believe it’s because hostility is often easier to embrace. It doesn’t require much effort. One can take all the negativity in one’s life and pile it up into a fire of resentment and anger, then unleash it like those fire-breathing dragons from old tales. On the other hand, love is time-consuming and demands humility. It requires us to often ‘eat crow’ and say, ‘I’m sorry,’ or ‘I really do love you.’ These expressions take courage and ultimately make the world a better place. So, I’ve been thinking that maybe we should slay the dragons of contempt and let the crows take flight.

I’ve been thinking about parking lots. Have you ever noticed a car pulling into a handicap spot, only to see the driver hop out and run into the store using their well-developed leg muscles? While some have invisible disabilities, you know what I mean. Or how about the empty grocery cart that gets left in the only available parking space? Parking lots often reveal extreme selfishness and a lack of decency. I suggest taking your kids to the nearest Kroger, sitting in the car for a

true blessing for our community.

By the time I first attended Holbrook Camp Meeting in the 1960s more than 130 years after the campground was founded, the majority of the cabins, or tents as they are continued to be called, had been replaced.

But many of the traditions remained. Those driving up from Canton to “tent” would carry large stores of food, and prepare lavish Southern meals of fried chicken, fresh vegetables, macaroni and cheese, an array of pies and cakes, and plenty of sweet, iced tea to cool off on hot summer afternoons.

Those were some of the happiest experiences of my life, and I have many fond memories of those times. I loved traveling back in time at the campground, where we would sleep in feather beds, in rooms that had sawdust on the floor.

We would gather on porches to talk and while away the long afternoons or listen to the grown-ups talk as we sat in a variety of rocking chairs crowded together.

I made many lifelong friends at those camp meetings. And of course there was plenty of old-time religion to be had. These days my dear friend, Jeannie’s older sister Nancy Lathem Sams, still keeps the tradition alive at the tent I visited way back in the day. I love to go up there for a service and re-live some of the sweetest and most memorable days of my childhood.

Rebecca Johnston is a lifelong Cherokee County resident and former managing editor of The Cherokee Tribune.

while and watching people. It’s a good lesson to teach them the values of good character.

How many of us who are aging have finally discovered what is truly important in life? It wasn’t the success we achieved, even though that helped provide for our children. It wasn’t the accolades, the awards, or winning the big game. The greatest success comes from reaching the end of our journey and realizing that everything was meant to lead us up a long staircase. Every step we take, no matter how difficult or how many times we stumble, success comes from our determination to keep climbing. It is the will to keep pondering, giving, and discovering who we are, as well as reflecting on whether we have fulfilled the purpose that God has given us. I’ve been thinking that perhaps we all need to continuously seek better ways to serve one another and the God who provided us with the stairs to climb.

Take a moment to ask your loved ones questions while you still have the chance to do so. Let’s move away from expressing political hatred, as it is un-American. According to God, love is the only force that can extinguish hatred. Selfishness, whether it’s in a parking lot or a living room, stems from a lack of character and compassion.

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what we think; what truly matters is what God thinks of us.

Lynn Gendusa’s latest book is “Southern Comfort: Stories of Family, Friendship, Fiery Trials, and Faith.” She can be reached at www.lynngendusa.com.

Johnston

Gendusa

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Pine Log Wildlife Management Area

DEAR

EDITOR:

By now many in Cherokee County heard Chairman Harry Johnston and the board of commissioners committed 2 million dollars to help purchase the old Pine Log Wildlife Management Area property. It is a 14,000-acre tract of land with 2500 acres in north west Cherokee County. The Georgia State Department of Natural Resources has been in negotiations to purchase the property and recently renewed negotiations. DNR is asking for help to close the gap. DNR leased the property and ran it as a wildlife management area for 40 years. 3 years ago, the family who owned it decided not the renew the lease so they could sell the property. I personally want to thank the owners for allowing the public to enjoy the property for 40 years. I pray we can come to an amicable agreement to preserve the property for future generations. It would be a lasting legacy for the family to preserve the property. I also want to thank Chairman Johnston and the board of

commissioners for having the foresight to do what we can to preserve this property. I hope the 2-million-dollar commitment will help and, in the future, it will seem like a bargain. Citizens regardless of any political slogans you will hear during this special election this is the way to “Save Cherokee County” and preserve the best of the county for future generations. We lost many acres of property north of lake Allatoona years ago when the property owners decided to do the same thing and sell their property. Before that happened Timber companies sold their vast holdings in Cherokee county when their tax friendly status ended drastically raising their taxes. We need more green space and this is one way to do it. Let us save Cherokee County for now and future generations.

Bravo Chairman Johnston and the Board of Commissioners for your effort and thank you.

Raleigh Morgan Canton

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following letters recently ran in the Cherokee Tribune

ICE raids hurt our communities and economy

DEAR EDITOR:

On June 7, 17, and June 25, ICE agents arrested laborers seeking work in Canton. While we are unable to confirm the exact number detained, reports from community members indicate that at least eighteen people were taken. These were not criminals. They were individuals trying to earn an honest living, support their families, and contribute to our community.

As members of the Latino Outreach Committee and as your neighbors, we feel compelled to speak out. These raids do more than create fear. They tear apart families, destabilize our local economy, and harm the cultural fabric that makes Cherokee County a special place to live.

Many of the same workers targeted in these raids are regularly hired by local businesses and residents, including some who support the very policies that lead to these actions. If we value their labor, we must also value their humanity and their right to live and work in peace, without the constant threat of detention.

Undocumented Immigrants Are Essential to Georgia’s Economy

Undocumented immigrants in Georgia pay an estimated $352 million in state and local taxes each year (ITEP).

They contribute approximately $7.2 billion annually to Georgia’s GDP (New American Economy).

Roughly 170,000 undocumented workers in Georgia fill key roles in construction, agriculture, hospitality, and other essential industries.

In Cherokee County:

Latinos make up about 11 percent of the population (U.S. Census, 2023), and many of the undocumented workers targeted in raids live and work here.

These individuals are vital to our local labor force and economy.

They also contribute as consumers and community members, despite being excluded from many public benefits.

The Harm of ICE Raids

These raids do not make us safer. They take away needed workers, cut off household incomes, and increase reliance on strained community support systems.

Children — many of them U.S. citizens — suffer the trauma of separation from parents.

Fear spreads, pushing families into the shadows and weakening trust in law enforcement.

An Invitation to Our Neighbors

To those influenced by misleading narratives, we invite you to walk through our neighborhoods. Get to know us. You’ll find families working hard, raising children, and contributing to a better future — just like yours.

We call on our local leaders and neighbors to reject these harmful raids. Let’s come together to protect families, support our local economy, and celebrate the diversity that makes Cherokee County stronger.

Pat Fagan

Latino Outreach Committee

Cherokee County Democrats Woodstock

DEAR EDITOR:

They’re spreading.

They’re rising,

Apartment complexes here. Townhouses there

Across Cherokee County everywhere

More places to put people

But cars and buses and trucks?

More than our pavements can bear.

John Rogers Canton

Open borders, not ICE arrests, hurt communities and economy

DEAR EDITOR:

It’s almost comical that a Latino Outreach Committee of the Cherokee County Democrats even exists. And moreso that a recent letter writer, on their behalf, bemoans the “fact” that ICE arrests of “undocumented immigrants” (translation: “lawbreakers”) hurt our communities and our economy. If there is anyone whose actions have purposefully created this situation, it is the Biden Administration and, more broadly, the Democrat party.

There’s a proven system in place for a fair, functional immigration process. The Biden Administration might have worked within it to increase numbers and expedite legal immigration. Done right, this would have added the benefit of ensuring that every immigrant so processed would be unquestionably legal. Done right, it might even have been a bipartisan effort. Instead, we got “open borders” and the gaslighting that came with it. “Nobody is above the Law” …we know this because every Democrat, ever, seemingly has advised us of this …except for Immigration Law, of course. Biden gave each and every “Undocumented Immigrant” a crash course in disrespect for American laws and in civil disobedience. Over four years these actions and lies angered voters, and were important factors in the loss of credibility for Biden, Harris, the Democrats and the Press. So…

Want some suggestions how one might really, TRULY hurt our communities and economy?

(Hint: it’s NOT by enforcing immigration laws.)

-Literally invite illegal immigrants to surge US borders in a major 2021 speech, pledging a moratorium on deportations.

-Abdicate responsibility for control of immigration over four years. Allow the count to rise to over 7 million, more than 6 times the population of Delaware.

-Allow human traffickers, drug smugglers, convicted criminals, citizens of hostile nations and people potentially carrying diseases unknown to enter the US in uncounted numbers hidden in the larger mass, and then to scatter.

-Transport large numbers of “Undocumented Immigrants” in surreptitious flights to unprepared communities.

-Lie about it. Over. And over. And over.

Male Latino voters broke for Trump in the 2024, shattering the complacency of the Media and Democrat strategists. The trend shouldn’t be surprising. Most Latinos come from relatively conservative societies, which value family, hard work, their faith, and traditional morality. Why would the majority of “Undocumented Immigrants,” given a choice, purposefully choose to associate with a political philosophy that turned them into lawbreakers, defunded police and promotes gender wars, disrespect for girls and women, socialism and worse?

Tom Clearman Sutallee

Tell Cherokee what you think

Letters to the editor may be submitted by email to editor@ledgernews.com, or by mail to 521 e. Main st., Canton, gA 30114. All letters must be typed and include a phone number to verify authenticity. We reserve the right to reject publication. We reserve the right to edit for libel and brevity. The editor and publisher reserve the right to publish a sampling of letters that reflect an accurate representation of those submitted on the same subject. The content and accuracy of all information contained in a letter to the editor is the responsibility of the letter-writer. Letters must not exceed 450 words.

♦ At the rate of progress so far on the widening of Bells Ferry Road it won’t be finished until 2035. It appears the workers determine their own work schedule.

♦ Well, it’s a beautiful day out here, behind the white Chevrolet pickup pulling a pretty heavy utility trailer. Doesn’t have one sign of a brake light or any other kind of lights on it. Got a couple of bags laying on the trailer, not secured. And where’s law enforcement? Where’s the street patrol? I just passed the library where they spent 2 or 3 million dollars. We’re building roundabouts at 2 or 3 million dollars a piece, but the road’s got holes in it. God bless these people running for county commissioner. Help properly spend and budget the taxpayers’ money.

♦ Thank you Dr. Larry Anderson so much for your up to date and accurate explanations of vaccines and vaccinations. We appreciate the truth in the article which will help people who may not be as well informed know about what they should be doing to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

♦ The horse crowd has put one over on our state and county governments. They claim fireworks scare horses to death. Yet for hundreds of years including through World War II horses have dragged artillery and cavalry into battle. Fireworks are no comparison to cannon fire. Are they also going to pass a law against thunderstorms. One bolt of lightning has more flash and sound than any firework. After one of our early summer thunderstorms there shouldn’t be any horses left alive.

♦ Why is the county wasting money on curbs and sidewalks on Old Alabama Road, when that money should be used to pave Priest Road?

♦ Jonathan Browning should look at the ad valorem taxes being paid by the airport. It’s apparent that he knows about as much about the airport as would fill a thimble.

♦ People keep talking about what the Constitution says. Don’t believe them. Get a copy and read it for yourself. Most of the things Trump is cutting funds on are prohibited for the federal government. They should be controlled by the states. As for separation of church and state, the Constitution only prohibits Congress from passing a law creating a state religion. It is intended to keep the government out of religion not religion out of the government.

♦ I want all of Cherokee County to know that I called Papa John’s on Trickum and 92. I got directed to a call center. 45 minutes later, when it finally did show up, DoorDash delivered it. By this point, I had already denied the pizza from Papa John’s because it took too long for what they charged for it. And then I got a call from DoorDash. Just so you know, Papa John’s is letting your number out to DoorDash. Let Cherokee County know please. Thank you.

♦ The latest Republican version of the Tax the Poor to Feed the Rich program should include work requirements for our representatives and higher tax brackets for higher incomes and those who claim they’re smart as they pay no taxes.

♦ You’re a fool if you vote for any incumbents. We need term limits now.

♦ Saw in the July monthly edition of Soapbox that the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved the rezoning of an 88 acre track of land for a 55 and up neighborhood. Found it interesting that this will barely cover the 107 residences if 40% or more of the tract is dedicated to green space. Also found the price of the home for seniors starting at $600,000, quite expensive. Based on the article, smaller homes will cost $400 per square foot. Does anyone else see a problem with this project?

♦ I do believe the community could have benefited from some turning lanes on Hickory Road rather than some of these sidewalks, or maybe put the turning lanes in here before you put the sidewalks in. But it sure would help alleviate some of the traffic coming home in the afternoon. You have the turning lane going out of Holly Springs, just the turning lanes would have been useful coming in, but no, let’s use all these sidewalks.

♦ Received my property assessment, and it’s went up again. Have to agree with a Soapbox comment several months back, we’re being taxed on unrealized capital gains. It’s only worth that amount if I sell.

♦ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a noble goal, a fairies’ dream, or a slowing growing seed in the hearts of mankind? Not something that can be accomplished in the span of a quarter century; it flies in the face of natural law, survival of the fittest. Not goodbye, never that, I ask for a more achievable plan. Rather than forcing the least qualified, bound to fail and passing by the most qualified people, let’s try the three Es: Education, Experience, Endurance.

♦ Senator Walt Warnock, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, talking about mor-

als. And he’s a member of the Democratic Party, which approves of eight, month, nine month, after birth abortions, i.e. Colorado. He needs a come to Jesus meeting.

♦ Read in the Ledger that the Cherokee County School Board unanimously approved the construction of an additional gym for Sequoyah High School, plus additional improvements, for $27.8 million. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners in 2021 approved $11.98 million for construction of “The Buzz” recreational facility at Veterans Memorial Park on Cumming Highway (GA Route 20). The facility is over 32,600 square feet. Can’t understand why the Sequoyah project costs 130% more for a project with a similar scope. Just wondering where are the financial checks and balances on the CCSB?

♦ When I was young, we had a class called driver’s ed in school. You took that before you went to go get your license. They must not have it anymore, because people are kind of stupid. I was taught one car length for every 10 miles an hour. So if you’re going 50, if you’re less than two car lengths behind me, I think you’re not doing it correctly. Please check yourself.

♦ For those of you who have been taken to court when you’ve done nothing wrong or illegal, as I have, I’ve donated some selfhelp law books to the Canton Public Law Library. I plan to donate some more for the 65% of us who can’t afford a lawyer. But remember that some judges will not treat a pro se layman with the same fairness or respect that they treat their fellow lawyers. ♦ To all these protesters supporting open borders. When you get home after the rally, take down your front door and rip out the security system so those illegals will have somewhere to live.

♦ When are the Woodstock Police going to enforce no riding of Motorized Scooters and E-Bikes on the Pure and Canyons side of Main Street in Woodstock? I have been almost run over several times on the sidewalks and a friend of mine who is 92 has almost fallen down due to these riders, someone is going to get seriously hurt if this is not enforced. There are plenty of biking trails and walking trails in downtown Woodstock developed for them to ride on, one being behind Reformation Brewery going all the way to Highway 92. This must stop now!

Editor’s note: the soapbox is a forum for residents to sound off about topics of interest. All comments are those of the callers and do not reflect the views of the newspaper. We welcome the contributions of our readers and encourage respectful and lively debate. the Ledger-news reserves the right not to publish soapbox items based on libel or other considerations the editor and publisher deem valid. Comments may be edited for brevity. Please keep comments as brief as possible. Lengthy opinions should be addressed in a letter to the editor. to submit a soapbox, call 770928-1055 or email editor@ledgernews.com.

Cajun cuisine coming to Canton

By Rylee Holland rholland@ledgernews.com

Cherokee County is getting a new Cajun cuisine restaurant, The Cajun Menu, which is moving from Jasper to Canton.

The owner, Tammy Ross, said the main reason for the move is due to the restaurant needing a larger space to accommodate their customers.

“It will offer a new full bar and patio seating,” the business owner said.

Tammy Ross believes that Canton is the right place for her restaurant.

“It’s probably one of the few cuisines that Canton doesn’t have right now,” she said.

Tammy Ross and general manager Jordyn Ross said they are excited to get involved in the Canton community.

“At the Jasper location we were always asked to sponsor some of the fundraisers and we are going to implement that here as well,” Tammy Ross said. “A percentage of the sales we’ll give back to the community and to whichever charities are happening at that point.”

They also want to team up with many local car shows, specifically one called PoBoys to work together to support good causes, the manager said.

The Cajun Menu’s move has received positive feedback so far.

“My customers are calling us want -

ing to come help us with the building because they want it to open quicker,”

Tammy Ross said.

Cajun Menu will be adding a Crab Cake Po Boy and bringing back their Roast Beef Po Boy as requested by customers when they open the new location, the business owner and manager said.

The Cajun Menu will hire around 30 employees for the new location, including bartenders, hosts, servers and more. At the Jasper location, there were four employees including the owner and manager.

As of press time, an opening date had not been announced. For updates, visit

The Cajun Menu’s Facebook at https:// tinyurl.com/bdze2zj5.

The Cajun Menu

The Cajun Menu’s alligator sauce piquant, one of the restaurant’s most popular menu items.

The Cajun Menu

The Cajun Menu’s seafood gumbo.

The Cajun Menu

The Cajun Menu’s crawfish etoufee.

The Cajun Menu

The Cajun Menu’s shrimp and grits.

The Cajun Menu

The Cajun Menu’s red beans and rice.

American Mah Jongg group thrives in Cherokee

By Rylee Holland rholland@ledgernews.com

An old Chinese game comes to life with Cherokee County American Mah Jongg as the group is rapidly growing the game, starting with just five members to their now 400.

American Mah Jongg is a variation of the Chinese tile game based on skill, strategy and luck. In the U.S., the game has historically been played by women, but men are invited to play as well.

The Cherokee County American Mah Jongg Facebook group has five group administrators: Sue Loughlin, Jodie Mercer, Toni Dupuis, Lacey Cooper and Cathy Schmidt.

“Initially, we all wanted to meet players so we could hold regular games. We were delighted with the amount of people that showed interest in learning and playing,”

Mercer said. “We started the Facebook group page to communicate with local players about events and to share the wonderful venues that have hosted us.”

Soon after starting the group in January, Mercer saw the Mahj Life Instructor’s Guild created by Michele Frizzell, which helps instructors and players with the game and thought it’d be a good idea for the five administrators to join it.

Frizzell began her own group in 1990 due to the influence of her mother, she said.

“In 2017 I moved to rural Georgia and endeavored to publish videos of my lessons and gameplay livestreams on YouTube. I also created a Facebook group to build community and offer support for both players and instructors,” Frizzell said.

Frizzell, who has 46,000 YouTube subscribers and 55,000 Facebook followers to date, often participates in the CCAMJ’s events and tournaments.

The popularity of American Mah Jongg has increased across the country, especially in the South, Mercer said. The group Facebook page has over 400 members.

“This game is passed down from generation to generation. We believe our

success has been efforts for engagement,” Mercer said. “We teach lessons and then provide open play events for all levels to play and get to know each other.”

The group’s motto is “Come for the tiles, and stay for the tribe.”

“People are looking for connections, American Mah Jongg is challenging, so learning and playing together bonds people. I’ve made so many new friends through this game,” Mercer said.

Open play usually draws about 25 to 30 players of all levels; some come with friends and some come alone. Everyone shares tile sets and plays by the National Mah Jongg League rules, Mercer said.

The group meets all around Cherokee County. They plan their games in the “Cherokee County American Mah Jongg” Facebook group.

“The Mill at Etowah, B&B Social, Home & Seasons GA, The Tavern at Towne Lake, Deep Roots, and The Market, just to name a few,” Mercer said.

She said they usually dine or shop around wherever they meet first and then play.

“The CCAMJ administrators meet, greet and seat players as they enter. We make introductions and try to help people get to know each other,” Mercer said.

CCAMJ is hosting its first tournament in September to benefit the Georgia Alliance Against Breast Cancer.

So far, the group is expecting close to 50 players, Mercer said.

If anyone is nervous about starting, Mercer’s advice is to join for a lesson first, and then join for the open play. She added that the administrators and members make sure everyone is comfortable and feels welcome.

“What stands out about the Cherokee County group is their work ethic and unity. They’re not just teaching lessons — they’re building something bigger in the community,” Frizzell said. “They consistently show up for one another, organize events across the county and have grown their reach at an impressive pace.”

For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page, https://tinyurl.com/3uf54srt.

r ylee holland

Cherokee County American Mah Jongg group plays a game at The Market in Acworth.

r ylee holland

From left to right: Jodie Mercer, a group admin, Michele Frizzell, a nationally known player, and Sue Loughlin, a group admin.

r ylee holland

A close-up of the American Mah Jongg game set-up.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

UPCOMING EVENTS AROUND CHEROKEE COUNTY

AUG 1

CANTON FIRST FRIDAY

Downtown Canton is hosting August’s First Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 1 at 130 E Main St. The Celebrity All-Star Band will be playing and contains former members of Earth Wind & Fire, Bette Midler, Janet Jackson and Kenny Loggins.

AUG 2

GUARDIANS OF THE JUKEBOX

80s band Guardians of the Jukebox is performing a free concert at Aug. 2 at the Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm St.

in Woodstock.

The event starts at 7 p.m., and the concert begins at 8 p.m.

It’s recommended to arrive early to get a good spot to watch the show.

This event is hosted by Woodstock Arts, Black Sheep Promotions and Reformation Brewery.

AUG 9

ETOWAH RIVER PARK SUMMER CLASSIC 5K/10K

Local runners will have a new opportunity to hit the pavement this summer during the Etowah River Park Summer Classic, a race set for Aug. 9 at 600

Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton.

Organized by the Cherokee Run Club, the event will take place from 7:30 to 10 a.m. and includes both 5K and 10K options on USA Track and Field-certified courses. Runners and walkers of all experience levels are invited to participate. This year’s race will introduce a 10K team competition, which invites local running clubs to form teams and compete for awards. Each team’s top five finishers will have their times combined, with the top three teams receiving recognition. More information and registration details are available at runsignup.com.

AUG 9

10,000 MANIACS

The Woodstock Summer Concert Series returns Aug. 9 with a performance from 10,000 Maniacs. The concert is 7:30-10 p.m. Aug. 9 at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. The concert is free to attend. For rules and more information, visit https://www.woodstockconcertseries. com.

AUG 15

ANYTHING GOES

Woodstock Arts is presenting “Anything Goes” Aug. 15-31 at the Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main St. in downtown Woodstock.

This is the 2022 revised version. The show is recommended for ages 10 and up. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $21-22 online and $24-25 at the door.

https://woodstockarts.org/events/ anything-goes/

AUG 16

CHICK-FIL-A CHEROKEE COUNTY 5K

Chick-Fil-A is hosting their annual Cherokee County 5K at 8 a.m. Aug. 16 at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton. Proceeds from the race go to the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics. There is also a onemile Calf Run and a Nugget Roll for ages 2-5. Dress as a cow and enter the event’s costume contest for a chance to win free

See EVENTS, 19

Guardians of the Jukebox

10,000 Maniacs

EVENTS

From 18

Chick-fil-A for a year. More information and registration details are available at https://cherokeecounty5k.com.

AUG 16

THE SWON BROTHERS

The Swon Brothers are taking the stage at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Woodstock Arts Event Green, 113 Elm St. in Woodstock. Country singers Zach and Colton Swon were on Season 4 of “The Voice.” Tickets start at $20 for general admission; other options for reserved seating are also available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://woodstockarts.org/events/theswon-brothers.

AUG 19

CANTON CITY LIMITS

The Canton Theatre is hosting the Canton City Limits open mic night Aug. 19, giving the spotlight to local performers. Musicians, poets, comedians and more are invited to perform. Top performers from this open mic will be eligible to compete in the Canton City Limits Annual Showdown Sept. 30. Admission is free.

Sign ups will open Aug. 12 for a limited number of spots to perform.

For more information, go to https:// www.cantonga.gov/ or visit the Canton Theatre’s Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/cantontheatre.

AUG 21

WOODSTOCK FAMILY FUN NIGHT

Visit Woodstock GA is closing out its Family Fun Night series for the year Aug. 21 with “There’s No Place Like Home,” bringing the land of Oz to Woodstock.

The event is 5-8 p.m. Aug. 21 in downtown Woodstock. There will be free family-friendly themed activities around

downtown.

The featured movie will be “The Wizard Of Oz” on the Woodstock Arts Event Green.

This event series is sponsored by Visit Woodstock GA, with help from Woodstock Arts and Woodstock City Church. For more information, visit www.VisitWoodstockGA.com/family-fun.

AUG 23

MARK CHESNUTT

Canton’s River Rock concert series is back Aug. 23 with a performance from Mark Chesnutt.

Also set to perform at the show is Ball Ground country singer Ashley Brooks.

The event is set for 6-10 p.m. Aug. 23 at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton.

The concert is free to attend. The event features local food trucks, beverage vendors, a children’s area and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

HISTORY CHEROKEE

PRESERVATION AWARDS GALA

History Cherokee is inviting the community to an evening of celebration, recognition, and entertainment at the 2025 Historic Preservation Awards Gala.

The event will take place at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23 at Timbers on Etowah, located in The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway near downtown Canton. Proceeds benefit the organization’s preservation efforts.

Evening highlights include a formal historic preservation awards ceremony, a gourmet dinner catered by Alessandro’s Italian Café and a silent auction.

After the awards ceremony there will be an after party on the event green at The Mill on Etowah, where there will be a performance Rian Davis and the Chairmen of Swing.

The dress code for the event is cocktail attire, and all are encouraged to bring dancing shoes.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit historycherokee.org.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

SEPT 4

TASTE OF WOODSTOCK

The 14th annual Taste of Woodstock is set for 5 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 4 at the Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm St. in Woodstock.

Event proceeds benefit the Woodstock High School Band Boosters, which raises funding for the band program. Taste of Woodstock is presented by Visit Woodstock GA.

Guests will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite dish of the night in the coveted People’s Choice Award category. A panel of judges will also select winners in

categories for Best Appetizer, Best Entrée and Best Dessert.

There will be live music throughout the evening from the Woodstock High School Band and other local performers.

Admission to Taste of Woodstock is free, though tasting tickets are required to sample restaurant offerings.

Advance tickets will be available beginning Aug. 18 from the Woodstock Visitors Center, 8588 Main St., and onsite the day of the event.

For more information including participating restaurants, visit www.tasteofwoodstock.com.

Woodstock Arts

The Swon Brothers

City of Canton

Jessie Lane plays guitar and sings at a Canton City Limits open mic event. She earned a spot to compete in the showdown event in September.

Woodstock police chief will retire in September

By Shannon Ballew sballew@ledgernews.com

Woodstock Police Chief Robert Jones is retiring later this year, the city announced.

His last day with the Woodstock Police Department is Sept. 2. Jones joined the Woodstock Police Department in March 2022. He has served for 27 years in law enforcement and 12 years in the United States military.

rooted in integrity, professionalism, and service to our community. I will always be proud to have been a part of this organization.”

The city of Woodstock reports that it plans to conduct a national executive search to recruit a new chief of police.

Robert Jones

“Serving this city and working alongside the dedicated men and women of this agency has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Jones said in a statement. “Together, we have built something remarkable, an agency

The Woodstock Police Department provides law enforcement services for Woodstock’s 35,000 residents and over 2,000 businesses. It is nationally accredited through CALEA and certified through the State of Georgia placing it in the top 5% of agencies in the state. When the application period begins, information about the role will be posted at woodstockga.gov/jobs.

2025 All-Cherokee Baseball Teams PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Cecil Copeland

Etowah standout Matthew Sharman best player for best team in Cherokee

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Matthew Sharman was the best player for the best baseball team in Cherokee County as Etowah followed its 2024 state championship with a Class AAAAAA semifinals appearance in 2025.

The standout junior excelled as both a pitcher and hitter, earning himself this year’s County Player of the Year award, selected by Cherokee County coaches. Sharman registered a 13-1 record on the mound, paired with a .467 batting average as the Eagles bulldozed their way to another 30-plus win season.

“It started very early on,” Sharman said. “We had a great group coming back from our state championship team, and all the boys are just very close. To have an environment that is well-rounded and very centered with a purpose helped our team. It helped our individual performances as well, and I give credit to my coaches and my teammates for just letting me play freely.”

Sharman’s average led Etowah’s lineup decisively, along with his 31 walks drawn and eight strikeouts — the fewest of any

hitter. He was near the top in almost every other statistical category, including 38 runs scored, 37 RBIs and six home runs.

As a pitcher, Sharman played the workhorse role with over 1,000 pitches thrown across 80 2/3 innings. He finished the season with 137 strikeouts to just 11 walks and a 1.48 ERA.

With that dominance over hitters in 2025 came an incredibly detailed workout plan and throwing schedule.

“In-between weeks when I throw, from the start of the year to the end, I have to be very considerate and smart with my body,” Sharman said. “I know I will go out there and go deep into games. I have to be very cautious on what I do within the week, and honestly, I just work very, very hard in the weight room.”

Sharman’s regular season success carried over to the playoffs, where he powered Etowah to sweeps over Richmond Hill, Carrollton and Parkview.

The county’s Player of the Year started and pitched six innings of two-run ball in the Eagles’ Round 2 opener against Carrollton. It was his fourth straight outing with double-digit strikeouts (11), includ-

ing the playoff-opener against the Wildcats where he fanned 14 batters.

Following the 2024 state championship and 8-0 start to this season, Sharman said there was a target on his and Etowah’s backs. Confidence led to performance as the results, a 34-4 record (17-1 Region 5AAAAAA) speak for themselves.

“We just went into every game knowing that, honestly, we should win,” Sharman said. “And we completed that task more than 95% of the time. (The season) just didn’t end how we wanted to.”

Sharman now prepares for a return to Etowah in 2026, hoping for a second state title before he heads to the University of Georgia, or possibly the MLB Draft.

As he reflected on the Eagles’ 2025 season, the team’s camaraderie came to mind, and Sharman said he’s excited for what’s next.

“I would just say it’s the bond we shared as players,” Sharman said. “I’ve played on a lot of teams, and this is probably one of my favorite teams, just between the conversations we had as teammates and all the laughs and memories we shared. It was just a super fun year, and I am just so blessed and grateful to be a part of it.”

♦ Teams voted on by Cherokee County coaches

Player of the Year

Matthew Sharman, Etowah Pitcher of the Year

Reid Worley, Cherokee

Coach of the Year

Matt Gershon, Creekview

FIRST TEAM

P Reid Worley, Cherokee

P Luke Nitkowski, Creekview

P Jackson Rose, Etowah

P Matthew Sharman, Etowah

P Will Schmidt, River Ridge

P Sammy Ericson, Cherokee

IF Jackson Stanley, Creekview

IF Ean Marria, Sequoyah

IF Collin McGhee, Cherokee

IF Hunter Hollier, River Ridge

IF Gavin Hamrick, River Ridge

IF Deion Cole, Etowah OF/P PJ Fitzpatrick, Creekview OF Trevor Condon, Etowah OF/P KJ Hart, River Ridge OF Brandon Dell, Woodstock OF Austin Penrod, Creekview

C Fuller Morrish, Woodstock UTIL Brennan Roth, Cherokee

SECOND TEAM

P Clay Herring, Creekview

P Connor Johnson, River Ridge

P Wyatt Riske, Woodstock

P Jack Turner, Etowah

P Andrew Shaw, Sequoyah

P Sully Aita, Woodstock

IF Brodie Carter, Creekview

IF Kolby Martin, Sequoyah

IF Colin Anderson, Etowah

IF Cason Gantt, Sequoyah

IF Nate Curcio, Etowah OF Adam Lipcsey, River Ridge

C Caden Borcherding, Etowah

UTIL Jared Mathis, River Ridge

HONORABLE MENTION

Creekview — Alex Penrod, Neil Stam

River Ridge — Zach Rapa Sequoyah — Michael White, Drew Harmon, Jack Ripley

Woodstock — Truett Hardy

Etowah’s Matthew Sharman drives the ball at Walton High School.

SPORTS

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Reid Worley completes record-setting season on the Cherokee pitcher’s mound in 2025

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Reid Worley’s record-setting season on the Cherokee pitcher’s mound earned him recognition as the 2025 Cherokee County Pitcher of the Year.

The Kennesaw State commit was nearly unhittable, finishing the season with a 1.32 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 77 strikeouts across 42 1/3 innings. Worley helped lead the Warriors to a 16-17 overall record (10-8 Region 5AAAAAA), while taking state runner-up Lowndes to Game 3 in the postseason’s opening round.

Back in April, Worley set a new Cherokee program record with his 200th career strikeout during a 10-0 win over Newton. He registered nine strikeouts and finished that game with 207, with that number only continuing to rise as the season progressed.

“He’s just an incredible talent,” Warriors coach Josh Thomas said after Worley broke the record. “If he’s on the mound, our team and our program expects to win, and it doesn’t matter who it’s against. He’s had some bigtime wins in his career here. We win a lot of games when he pitches.”

Cherokee qualified for the state playoffs in each season with Worley on the roster. The senior was a first-team all-county honoree last season after the Warriors made the second round of the Class AAAAAAA state tournament.

“Since his sophomore year, he has led our pitching staff,” Thomas said earlier this year. “He got thrown into it as a 10th-grader and handled it pretty well, considering his age. And then, the last two years, he’s just been lights-out.”

After a tough start to the season (2-5), Worley helped Cherokee rebound with a six-game winning streak spanning from late February to early March. The Warriors swept Wheeler and North Cobb to begin their region schedule, and they took the series opener against the eventual Class AAAAAA state champion Walton.

Worley participated in the MLB Draft combine in June and was named a top performer by MLB Network’s Lance Brozdowski. Worley’s spin rate and horizontal break were praised, with the spin rate clocking in the top 5 alongside Matt Barr (SUNY Niagara), Ma’Kale Holden (Thompson HS), Marcos Paz (Hebron HS) and Joe Ariola (Wake Forest).

The future Kennesaw State pitcher was one of six Cherokee County standouts to make the 2025 Senior All-State game, with infielder Collin McGhee and pitcher Sammy Ericson also earning the nod from Cherokee.

Worley brought home another postseason award in late June as the Georgia Dugout Club announced its 2025 GHSA Postseason All-State Teams. Worley was on the first team, along with Etowah’s Matthew Sharman, Jackson Rose and Trevor Condon.

Cherokee pitcher Reid Worley was voted the 2025 Cherokee County Pitcher of the Year.

COACH OF THE YEAR

Creekview’s Gershon leads three years of improvement

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Three years ago, Matt Gershon took the reins at Creekview aspiring to build a culture, a consistent winner and a postseason threat.

Now, the Grizzlies look back on three years of improvement, culminating in a 2025 Class AAAAA state quarterfinals appearance. Creekview finished the season 21-16 overall and 11-10 in one of the classification’s toughest regions.

That run was enough to earn Gershon this year’s Cherokee County Coach of the Year title.

“It was a total group effort by the players and coaches,” Gershon said. “We had a really special group of seniors this year, and I think the continuity that we’ve had with our coaching staff definitely played a role in it.”

Creekview improved its record all three years under Gershon, though the jump from 2024 to 2025 was monumental. The Grizzlies went from 12 wins to 21 between the two seasons, while moving from 6 to 11 wins within their region.

It resulted in their first playoff appearance since 2019.

“There was no way to know how quick it was going to happen…” Gershon said. “These kids really care about the program, and that’s the way it should be. They are not just doing it to do it, and now they’ve experienced the playoffs, now they want to go back.”

However, the playoffs were no guarantee after Creekview suffered through a brutal start to region play. It dropped

two straight series to Pope and Lassiter before finally notching a win over Riverwood on March 18.

After dropping their next game to the Raiders, the Grizzlies rattled off six consecutive victories, including a sweep over Region 6AAAAA rival Sprayberry. They won every series the rest of the way to clinch the re-

gion’s fourth seed.

“The kids just kept believing in themselves, and quite honestly, they circled the wagons and had enough of the moral victories,” Gershon said. “They just got after it… We were preaching to them all year that if this was not the best region in 5A, it was definitely one of the best. If we could just get in, we got a really good shot to do some damage in the playoffs.”

Damage is exactly what Gershon and the Grizzlies did, upsetting the Region 7 champion Johns Creek in a sweep. In Round 2, Creekview outdueled the 2-seeded Woodward Academy in three games, taking the seriesdeciding third game 4-2.

Gershon credited the Grizzlies’ loaded region with battle-testing his guys ahead of the postseason.

As Creekview ascends to a contender and completes its turnaround in Class AAAAA, the county’s Coach of the Year said his assistants have played a major role. Assistant coaches Cameron Gibson, Ben Greene, Chris Jeffreys and Chandler Wold helped Gershon build another winner in Canton.

“We have to press the right buttons, but if you don’t have talent, and you don’t have good support from the parents, administration and assistant coaches, you’re never going to reach the ultimate goal,” Gershon said. “I really think at some point, we can put everything together and win the state title. Who knows when that’s going to happen, but I think everybody is on the same page now. It’s a great spot to be and the community is fantastic, so I’m just really lucky.”

griffin Callaghan

Creekview coach Matt Gershon was voted the 2025 Cherokee County Baseball Coach of the Year

SPORTS

Lindsey promoted to follow Burton as Eagles’ coach

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Reinhardt University has filled its head baseball coaching vacancy from within, promoting assistant coach Brett Lindsey to the lead post.

Lindsey, who previously served as both the Eagles’ hitting and third base coach, takes over for Jonathan Burton, who surrendered his coaching position following this past season to focus solely on his role as Reinhardt’s athletic director.

“I want to first thank president (Mark) Roberts and athletic director Jonathan Burton for the opportunity to lead this incredible program,” Lindsey said in a release. “Coach Burton elevated Reinhardt baseball to new heights, and I am honored to continue building on that legacy.”

Before his time at Reinhardt, Lindsey was an assistant at South Alabama in 2019 before moving on to Broward (2020), Indiana Southeast (2021-23) and Georgia Gwinnett (2024). He also spent time in the independent Northwoods and Ohio Valley baseball leagues.

Those opportunities were all assistant coach positions, however, as Lindsey now gears up for his first head coaching opportunity.

“My goal is to uphold the integrity and culture that have defined this program, while relentlessly pursuing new levels of excellence for our student-athletes and the university,” Lindsey said in the release.

Lindsey takes control of a program already in great shape, featuring back-to-back Appalachian Athletic Conference regular-season championships and a 2024 NAIA World Series appearance.

and No. 4 seed Hope International — the eventual national champion — in the process.

Reinhardt finished the 2024 season 44-18 overall and 25-5 in conference play. It was runner-up in the AAC tournament, falling by one run to Tennessee Wesleyan in 10 innings.

Reinhardt finished 43-13 in 2025, with a 24-6 conference record and just two losses at home. It qualified for the NAIA tournament and beat Ave Maria to open its bracket in Waleska before falling to Loyola and Ave Maria in consecutive games.

Reinhardt went on a long run in 2024 under Burton, making it all the way to the NAIA World Series semifinals before falling to AAC rival Tennessee Wesleyan. The Eagles knocked off the No. 2 seed Georgia Gwinnett

“Brett is inheriting a program that is near and dear to my heart, and I am fully convinced that he can continue to build on the success of this program in the present and in the future,” Burton said in the release. “We are glad he is here, and I look forward to supporting him in a way that allows him to be very successful.”

As athletic director, Burton will keep a close eye on the team, though he has high expectations for Lindsey and the players in 2026 and beyond.

“In my time with Brett, it was obvious to me that he has the mannerisms, organizational skills, recruiting drive and capabilities to be a successful head coach,” Burton said in the release. “He simply needed a chance, and I am excited to give him that opportunity.”

special: reinhardt Athletics

Ken White Baseball Field at Reinhardt University.

Brett Lindsey

Elections board removes candidate from county commissioner race

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

Cameron Holloway will no longer be on the ballot for the Cherokee County Commission District 1 Aug. 26 special election.

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Voter Registration voted 4-1 June 20 to disqualify Holloway from the race after hearing a challenge about his residency. Julie Glade voted against the motion.

To run for county commissioner in Cherokee, a person must have lived in the county for one year before Election Day.

The elections board determined that, although Holloway has lived in Cherokee since July 2024, he didn’t formally establish residency until this April, when he changed his voter registration. Voting records showed that in the November election, he cast a ballot in Forsyth County.

“None of this is based on

you personally, it’s just a matter of looking at what the evidence is,” Elections Board Chair Glenn Johnson said.

On June 24, Holloway announced on his Facebook page that he was no longer in the race.

“The contested issue arose from my untimely action in updating important documents. I take ownership for that and made a mistake. I have learned a hard lesson. But hear me when I say this: I never intended to deceive

the county or any single voter,” he said in his post.

In his statement, Holloway said he performed due diligence in seeing if he was eligible to run for the seat before qualifying, and based on his interpretation of state requirements found that he was.

Holloway did not respond to requests for comment.

The decision does not disqualify Holloway from running for public office in the future.

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ethan Johnson

Cameron Holloway addresses the Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration.

Woodstock couple runs Peachtree Road Race after having lost a collective 143 pounds

By Rylee Holland rholland@ledgernews.com

Woodstock couple Chris and Nicole Russell hit a major goal by running the Peachtree Road Race after losing a collective 143 pounds.

Chris Russell’s journey to improving his health started after he had COVID-19 in 2020 and fell into a threemonth coma that made him view his health differently.

“My heart was just ready to move forward as far as getting my health together,” he said.

The couple’s collaborative health journey began in the beginning of 2024 when Nicole Russell struggled to find a wedding dress.

“I had booked the wedding dress then put a deposit down, went back a few months later and I couldn’t fit it,” she said.

Since their wedding in March 2024, the two have been proactively making changes to their health alongside plans and assistance from Northside Hospital and Beltline Health.

“They made the foundation on what we need to do with our nutrition,” Nicole Russell said. “So we make sure we have goals everyday: hitting our protein, making sure we have enough calcium, making sure that we are eating enough.”

Nicole Russell said their initial goal was just moving their bodies at least

30 minutes a day and four to five times in a week.

The couple said they have noticed both physical and emotional changes that have surprised them along their journey.

“Being able to move and not think about certain things like going into a restaurant and thinking ‘am I going to fit in this booth?’, ‘do I have to adjust the table so my stomach can fit?’,” Chris Russell said. “I cross my legs more just because I’m able to do it, it’s the little victories that I keep in my mind to say that I’m doing the right thing.”

The Peachtree Road Race has been a goal of Nicole Russell’s for a few years now. She signed up for the race a couple of years back and ended up backing out and not showing up.

After starting her health journey, she committed to running the Peachtree and her husband com mitted to running it with her.

The Russells crossed the finish line on July 4 and said they felt amazing.

“I definitely got emotional running, I came to the point of tears,” Chris Russell said.

Nicole Russell said crossing the finish line was like a weight was lifting from her.

The couple’s next big goals are completing the Publix Marathon in March 2026 as well as competing in HYROX.

“A small thing that we are

Chris Russell said. “I had to let go of my old clothes because it was a part of me… I had to take my hands off that part of my life because it was attached to so much trauma and a part of me that I didn’t want anymore.”

Chris and Nicole Russell share a moment at the Peachtree Road Race.

What to expect when your child visits the pediatrician

Visiting the pediatrician can be a routine part of a child’s life, but it comes with many questions for many parents and caregivers. Whether preparing for a well-child visit or seeking care for an illness, understanding what your pediatric provider may ask can help you feel confident and empowered.

When you arrive at the pediatrician’s office, you’re typically greeted by a medical assistant who records your child’s symptoms.

As pediatricians, we aim to work with families to understand their concerns, assess their child’s condition and develop the best care plan. This could mean prescribing antibiotics, recommending further tests, referring to a specialist or, in urgent cases, directing them to the emergency room. Why your story matters Caregivers know their children best. Understanding the timeline and nature of symptoms is essential to diagnosis and treatment. I recall a child with stomach pain and a history of anxiety. Her school nurse assumed it was anxiety-related and sent her back to class. But during our visit, she told me the pain felt different. That distinction helped us discover an infection, not anxiety, as the cause. One of the most critical questions we ask is, “How long has

this been going on?”

During the respiratory season, we see viruses like RSV, flu, strep and COVID-19. Knowing when symptoms started helps us assess whether it’s early in an illness or if there’s a risk of complications, like pneumonia.

One of the most frequent questions is, “When can my child return to school?” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance in 2024. Children may return to school when symptoms are improving and they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.

For COVID-19, online calculators can help you determine the return-to-activity timeline. If you’re ever unsure, speak with your pediatrician.

Protecting others at home

Teaching hygiene is vital. I tell children to wash their hands while singing “Happy Birthday” twice and to cough into the bend of their elbow like a vampire. If there’s a baby at home, give your older child a superhero role: By keeping their germs away, they’re protecting their sibling and helping Mom and Dad.

Typically, respiratory viruses are most contagious one to two days before symptoms begin through the early stages of illness. Even asymptomatic children can spread germs, so we ask about sick contacts — even if the answer is “none.”

For bacterial infections like pneumonia, children are generally much less contagious

after 24 hours on appropriate antibiotics.

One of the most common — and essential — questions we ask is: “What does your child’s stool look like?” This can be tough to answer, especially for parents of older, toilet-trained kids. But it’s crucial, as issues like constipation can lead to pain, discomfort and even behavioral changes, particularly in children with autism spectrum disorder.

I often recommend using the Bristol Stool Form Scale, a simple chart that illustrates stool types — from hard, pelletlike droppings (Type 1) to completely liquid stool (Type 7).

Parents also frequently bring in photos of rashes or videos of odd movements, which are incredibly useful during diagnosis. If you’ve noticed patterns — like symptoms worsening after meals or improving after a bowel movement — be sure to share them. These details help us identify what might happen and guide more accurate treatment.

Crying infants: Is this colic?

A frequent concern in young infants is excessive crying. If your baby is otherwise healthy and growing well but has periods of intense crying, especially in the evenings, they may be experiencing colic — now called “PURPLE crying.” PURPLE stands for:

♦ Peak of crying: Usually 6-8 weeks old

♦ Unexpected: No apparent reason for crying

♦ Resists soothing

♦ Pain-like face

♦ Long-lasting: Often more than three hours

♦ Evening: Typically worsens at night I recommend the “five S’s” to soothe colicky babies: swaddling, side or stomach position, sushing loudly, sucking (pacifier or nursing) and swinging or gentle rocking. Every child is unique — lights in the kitchen soothe some!

Don’t skip well visits

Developmental milestones are a key part of every well-child visit. We assess areas like language, gross and fine motor skills, social-emotional development and cognitive abilities. If you’re ever concerned about your child missing a milestone or if something seems off, bring it up. Early intervention can make a significant difference.

If you can’t make a scheduled well visit, contact your provider. Many clinics, including mine, offer short visits or use patient portals to communicate concerns.

Pediatric visits are a team effort. Ask questions. Share your observations. Document changes. And above all, trust your instincts. You are the expert on your child.

Dr. Beatrix Ohienmhen is a board-certified physician in pediatric medicine and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She sees patients at Northside Cherokee Pediatrics — Towne Lake. Schedule an appointment at northsidecherokeepediatrics.com.

Dr. Beatrix Ohienmhen

Canton leaders create community land trust

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

Canton leaders have voted to implement a land trust to help bring affordable housing to the city.

On July 3, the Canton City Council unanimously voted to create a Canton Community Land Trust as recommended by the Canton Housing Team.

The resolution finalizing and incorporating the land trust will come back to the city council at a future date for a vote. The resolution will feature details including any potential properties the city may consider transferring to the community land trust, the income range to qualify and other affordability rules and details.

The Community Land Trust Board of Directors members would then be selected, with the needed training for that board taking place shortly after. The initial board of directors can be members of city staff and/or members

of the housing committee, according to the city.

“The Canton Housing Team and city have been working on this for many months now under Mr. (Ken) Patton’s direction and leadership — this provides us with another tool in our toolbox to improve affordability,” City Councilmember Shawn Tolan said. “If we do put this into effect, it has the potential of removing up to 20% to 25% of the cost of a home, which is particularly impactful for first-time homebuyers.”

According to the city, a community land trust is a nonprofit, community-based organization that acquires, owns and stewards land permanently for the common good. Land trusts retain ownership of the land and sell the housing on the land to lower-income households through a longterm land lease, for below-market prices. In exchange, purchasers agree to resale restrictions that ensure the homes will remain affordable to subsequent buyers. For more information on the proposed land trust, go to the July 3 city council agenda online at canton.legistar.com/ Calendar.aspx.

Shawn Tolan

CHEROKEE SCENE

Woodstock celebrates the Fourth of July

Thousands of people lined Main Street in downtown Woodstock to watch the city’s annual Fourth of July parade.

Mary Beth Stockdale, special events coordinator for Woodstock Parks and Recreation, estimated there were about 14,000 in attendance.

This year’s grand marshal was U.S. Marine Corps veteran Harry Delaney. Ninety eight floats participated in the parade, many waving American flags and passing out candy to children.

Woodstock’s parade is part of a series of Independence Day events called the July 4th Spectacular. The day begins with the Freedom Run race, followed by the parade and a festival in downtown Woodstock. The city hosts a fireworks show at dusk in the area of Highway 92 and Interstate 575.

Photos

by Angie

Martin

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Visit our website at https://www.tribuneledgernews.com/ for more photos from the event.

Benjamin, 3, and Sawyer, 6, from Woodstock, watch the floats in the city’s Independence Day parade.

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Harry Delaney served as the parade’s grand marshal.

Angie Martin

Larry and Teresa Wood stand in front of their Jeep lining up for the Woodstock Fourth of July parade. Larry Wood, a Vietnam War veteran, painted his leg prosthetic in an American flag design for the holiday.

Angie Martin

Junior and Heather Garrett stand in front of their Jeep decked out with patriotic colors and Atlanta Braves decor, including a large inflatable Blooper.

Angie Martin

Brody and Kennedy Green of Canton at the Woodstock Fourth of July parade.

Angie Martin

Kids ride bicycles with American flags and other patriotic decor in Woodstock’s Fourth of July parade.

CHEROKEE SCENE

Canton celebrates Independence Day

Families and visitors gathered in downtown Canton for the annual Independence Day parade July 4. The parade is organized by the American Legion Post 45.

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Adalynn Cherry, 6, wears her stars at the Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton.

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A family waves at the floats in the Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton.

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American Legion members greet the crowd along the route of Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton.

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A Cherokee Shrine Club member drives a small car in the Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton.

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Boy Scouts with their troop leader ride in the Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton.

Families watch the floats in the Fourth of July parade in downtown Canton. ♦

robin rayne

CHEROKEE SCENE

Jazz and Wine Under the Stars concert celebrates Juneteenth

The Cherokee County NAACP and community members celebrated Juneteenth June 20 at the organization’s annual Juneteenth Jazz and Wine Under the Stars event in Canton.

The event, held at The Mill on Etowah in Canton, featured live jazz performances from the event green.

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Those who bought VIP tickets received wine and other refreshments to enjoy with the music. Organizers also held a silent auction. Proceeds from the event raised money for the local NAACP.

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Ira Shepherd and Teresa Jackson enjoy the show at the Juneteenth Jazz and Wine at the Mill on Etowah sponsored by the Cherokee County NAACP.

Anthony stalcup

A Sharp Affair Band opened the show at the Juneteenth Jazz and Wine at the Mill on Etowah sponsored by the Cherokee County NAACP.

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Ebony Steele was the host at the Juneteenth Jazz and Wine at the Mill on Etowah sponsored by the Cherokee County NAACP.

Anthony stalcup Derrick and Pam Robinson look over the items at the silent auction during the Juneteenth Jazz and Wine at the Mill on Etowah sponsored by the Cherokee County NAACP.

Anthony stalcup People enjoy the music during the Juneteenth celebration.

GARDENING

GARDENING WITH THE MASTERS|

Take root cuttings of woody shrubs and evergreens (such as azaleas, holly, and hydrangeas) to propagate.

Powdery mildew diseases attack a great many ornamentals, most often in late summer when the days are warm, and nights are cool. Some mildews, particularly those on roses, apples, and cherries, also are increased by high humidity. Prevention by proper cultural techniques is the first defense. Grow resistant varieties; space and prune plants to improve air flow and reduce shading; water early in the day and at the base rather than on leaves; and reduce nitrogen applications to avoid excessive, late-season growth.

Water shrubs deeply once a week during August. Many plants, including camellias and rhododendrons, are forming buds for next season’s bloom at this time. Do not prune or you will be removing the flower buds. Immature berries of hollies may drop if the plants are water stressed. During hot, dry August days, avoid deep cultivation in your flower beds. Loosening the soil under these conditions reduces water uptake by increasing loss of soil water and damaging surface roots. Plants often look much worse after cultivation than before.

Water roses with at least 1” of water per week. Remove spent blooms (deadheading) to encourage quicker rebloom. Prune 1/4” above an outward facing fiveleaflet eye. Watch for spider mites on the underside of the upper leaves. A blast of water from underneath will discourage them. Continue fertilizing once a month for both August and September.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Strawberries, blueberries, and bramble

August gardening tips

special: Wikimedia Commons/dominicus Johannes Bergsma

Water roses with at least 1” of water per week. Remove spent blooms (deadheading) to encourage quicker rebloom. Prune 1/4” above an outward facing five-leaflet eye. Watch for spider mites on the underside of the upper leaves. A blast of water from underneath will discourage them. Continue fertilizing once a month for both August and September.

fruits are forming buds for next year’s crop; keep them watered for better fruit bud production.

Fertilize strawberries in August. On plants set out this spring, apply 4-6 oz. of ammonium nitrate (33% actual nitrogen) or 12-18 oz. of 10-10-10 per feet of row. Spread the fertilizer uniformly in a band 14” wide over the row when foliage

(not the ground) is dry. Brush fertilizer off leaves to avoid leaf burn. For plants in the second year of growth, increase application rate fruits and vegetables to 6-8 oz. ammonium nitrate or 18-24 oz. of 1010-10 per 25 feet of row.

Heavy rains at harvest can dilute the sugars in melons. Watermelons can reconcentrate sugar if left on the vine for a few dry days, but cantaloupes cannot. Harvest cantaloupes when the melons pull easily from the stem. honeydews when the blossom end is slightly soft or springy. Harvest watermelons when there is a hollow sound when thumped and skin loses its shine. Also, run your hand around the middle of the watermelon. When fully ripe, most varieties develop low, longitudinal ridges, rather like flexed calf muscles.

Start seeds of cool-weather vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, and lettuce to transplant to the garden in early September.

White fly may be a serious problem this month on tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and squash. There is no effective preventive measure, so it is important to control the population before They increase to damaging levels. Hang sticky yellow strips among your plants to trap these pests.

Plant bush beans now for your fall crop. Watch out for insects, such as Mexican bean beetle.

If going on vacation this month, be sure to harvest all your vegetables and then arrange for someone to pick fast maturing crops, such as squash and okra; otherwise, they will become over mature and stop producing. Spider mites leave webs on the underside of leaves, and eggs are laid in these webs. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry weather. For mild infestations hose the foliage to wash off the mites. For severe problems, spray with an approved chemical according to the label. The best remedy for spider mites on plants is a good, heavy rainfall.

AUGUST MISCELLANEOUS

Water your plants several hours before applying pesticides, especially during dry weather. Drought-stressed plants have less water in their plant tissues. The chemicals that enter the leaves will be more concentrated and may burn the leaves.

The last two weeks of August is the time to spray kudzu with a non-selective weed killer or mow all visible foliage since it is at its weakest at this time.

Marcia Winchester is one of many UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County. For more information or questions contact the Cherokee County Extension Office at 770-721-7803 or for upcoming seminars follow us at www. facebook.com/cherokeemastergardeners or at cherokeemastergardeners.com.

MARCIA WINCHESTER

Winchester

special: Wikimedia Commons/dietmar rabich

Fertilize strawberries in August. On plants set out this spring, apply 4-6 oz. of ammonium nitrate (33% actual nitrogen) or 12-18 oz. of 10-10-10 per feet of row. Spread the fertilizer uniformly in a band 14” wide over the row when foliage (not the ground) is dry.

CROSSWORD ANSWER

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• Fractures, Sprains, Strains and Dislocations

• Painful, Swollen or Injured Joints

• Back and Neck Pain Urgent Care: Woodstock 1505 Stone Bridge Pkwy. Suite 200 Woodstock, GA 30189

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