Cherokee Ledger Monthly - June 2025

An early arrival

The calendar may say summer doesn’t start until June 20, but when the highs are over 80 degrees, it feels like summer has already made its way here.

School is out for summer break. While most of us adults still have work during the summer, summer can still be fun, with plenty of things to do right here in Cherokee County.

To beat the heat, you may want to get out on the lake: in this issue’s cover story, Rebecca Johnston shares everything Lake Allatoona has to offer, from swimming and hiking around the lake to fishing, kayaking and even camping.

ty, and learn about another business owner’s plans to turn a shipping container into a restaurant in Woodstock serving customizable fries.

This summer also means the Sequoyah Regional Library System is hosting its annual summer reading challenge, and is kicking off the season with some special events. You can see some of those in Community, where you can also check out other June events in Cherokee, including concerts, charity golf and more.

You’ve probably seen signs popping up around Cherokee for candidates running for state and local office. In early May, state Sen. Brandon Beach resigned to serve in his new role as U.S. treasurer, and Cherokee County Commissioner Steve West resigned to run for his seat — setting the stage for special elections for both seats. You can read more about that inside, and check our website for election updates and more about who’s announced so far.

In our Dining section, get to know the couple behind Arzeh Grill, bringing Lebanese cuisine to Cherokee Coun-

In Sports, check out the newest inductees in the Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame, and the All-Cherokee County boys and girls basketball teams and player and coach recognitions.

Thanks again for reading the Cherokee Ledger.

As always, 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

Community News

♦ Beach resigns to become U.S. Treasurer, 4

♦ Long Swamp Recreation Area opens, 6

♦ County looks to buy Free Home Elementary Campus, 9

♦ The news in brief, 10

♦ Tax assessments delayed, 20

♦ Work begins on widening Bells Ferry Road, 25

Publisher

LEE B. GARRETT

Managing Editor

SHANNON BALLEW

VP of Content JK MURPHY

Writers

SHANNON BALLEW

JOSEPH BENNETT

GRIFFIN CALLAGHAN

JORDEN HAMPTON

ETHAN JOHNSON

REBECCA JOHNSTON

VP of Advertising

BOB MCCRAY

Circulation Director

DAVE GOSSETT

VP of Production

DOUG CROW

Photographers

CECIL COPELAND

JORDEN HAMPTON

JANA RICE

SARAH SINGH

ANTHONY STALCUP

JACK TUSZYNSKI

Layout & Design

JUSTIN GRIFFIN, JENNIFER BROWN, PHILIP CLEMENTS

On the Cover

Jack Tuszynski captured this photo of Carterville’s Chap Padgett fishing for bass on Lake Allatoona.

Volume 2, Issue 6

7

♦ Perspectives, 11 ♦ Letters to the Editor, 12 ♦ Soapbox, 13

14

Service League Golf Tournament, 17

Sequoyah Library offers summer reading program, 17

Community Events, 18-19

Ballew

Beach resigns from Georgia Senate

West resigns from county commission

By Shannon Ballew sballew@ledgernews.com

State Sen. Brandon Beach has resigned from the Georgia Senate to take on his new role as Treasurer of the United States.

Beach, R — Alpharetta, formally announced his resignation from the Georgia State Senate May 5, the Senate announced. He served as a state senator for 13 years. Beach was recently appointed by President Donald Trump to serve as the 46th Treasurer of the United States. Beach’s resignation took effect immediately as he transitions into his new national role.

He becomes the first Georgian in U.S. history to serve as Treasurer of the United States. He will oversee the U.S. Mint, Fort Knox, and serve as a key liaison to the Federal Reserve. He will also advise the Treasury Secretary on issues impacting community development and economic infrastructure.

His 21st Senate District includes portions of Cherokee County and north Fulton County.

“This is a proud moment not just for my family, but the entire state of Georgia,” Beach said in a statement. “Serving in the State Senate has been one of the great-

est honors of my life, and I’m deeply thankful for the trust and support of my constituents and colleagues. Together, we’ve worked to make Georgia a national model for economic growth and pro-business leadership. I’m ready to take our Georgia values to Washington and deliver for the people of the United States. President Don-

ald J. Trump has given me the opportunity of a lifetime to help rebuild and secure our economic future as U.S. Treasurer. We are witnessing a bold conservative resurgence, and I’m proud to stand with President Trump as we restore American strength, defend taxpayer dollars and put America First. I will bring that same commitment to the Treasury Department and always remember the people and southern values that brought me here.”

Beach’s resignation sets the stage for a special election to fill his state Senate seat. Multiple candidates have already announced their intention to run for the office.

Among them is former Cherokee County Commissioner Steve West, who resigned from his post representing District 1 May 6.

“It has been a wonderful opportunity to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the last 10 years representing the residents of District 1. I appreciate all the support from the community over the years and am proud of what we have accomplished as Board,” West said in a statement. “I appreciate the opportunity voters have given me to serve Cherokee County.”

West was first elected in November 2014 and was sworn into his first term in January 2015. He was reelected in 2018 and 2022.

A special election will be held to fill the remainder of West’s term, which expires Dec. 31, 2026.

Several candidates have announced their intention to run for the Cherokee County District 1 commissioner seat. As of press time, details about both special elections had not yet been announced.

For more information and updates, go to www.tribuneledgernews.com.

Special

Brandon Beach

Steve West

I’LL INTRODUCE A BILL TO ELIMINATE THE STATE INCOME TAX

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

I’LL SUPPORT ICE RAIDS AND DEPORT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

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

-Jason T. Dickerson

Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area opens

By Joseph Bennett

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

BALL GROUND — Canoeing, kayaking, camping, archery and outdoor exercise are some of the activities that residents can now enjoy at Cherokee County’s Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area near Ball Ground.

The new recreational area marked its formal opening May 2.

On a sunlit Friday morning, County Commissioner Steve West cut the ceremonial ribbon to activate the first new park opened by the county in seven years.

“Long Swamp Creek is our county’s first true recreational area — one that supports outdoor and passive activities” said Cherokee Recreation and Parks Director Jay Worley. “We hope there will be more in the future. We are absolutely thrilled with the way the project turned out. We’ve got other parks that offer playgrounds and ball fields. This is a place where people can enjoy nature in a setting that’s perfect for it.”

In addition to access to the confluence of the Etowah River and Long Swamp Creek, the 24-acre facility offers primitive camping in wooded areas, an archery range, an outdoor pavilion and a quartermile walking and jogging trail that is set for future expansion.

The exterior of the farm building that was present when the county acquired the property has been renovated. The interior is scheduled to be completed within five years to include a general store that will sell outdoor recreational supplies and rent equipment, including canoes and kayaks. The building will also house an events center that can be rented to corporations and organizations for meetings, retreats and other activities.

At Long Swamp’s grand opening, Pam

Carnes, president and CEO of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, told about 100 people gathered for the event, “You are getting to spend a beautiful morning here. It’s where we’re all supposed to be, and if you don’t want to go back to your jobs, I don’t think you should have to.”

Chamber Chair Neil Blackman credited the county parks with bringing significant economic benefits to the area.

“Sometimes we don’t realize how far our parks and recreation amenities reach,” he said.

Cherokee County Commission Chair Harry Johnston encouraged recognition of the role of the Cherokee and other Native American peoples in the

region’s history.

Ball Ground City Councilman Scott Barnes called the new park “a great amenity and something that will lead people to visit our city.”

Adam Fussell, director of the county’s Natural Resources Division, recalled receiving an email instructing him to write a grant proposal to seek funding for the Long Swamp project.

“I remember thinking they might have sent this to the wrong person,” he said. Despite his misgivings, Fussell wrote a proposal that brought a $600,000 grant from the Department of Natural Resources that launched the project.

Work began in August of 2024 and fin-

ished on schedule.

Phase 2 of the Long Swamp Creek project is expected to start in 2027. In addition to completing renovation of the main building, it will add primitive campsites, more restrooms, Native American interpretive and educational signage, open lawns and picnic tables.

Accessed by Georgia Highway 372, Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area is located at 2015 Ball Ground Road. The park is two miles south of Ball Ground, and adjacent to the McGraw-Ford Wildlife Management Area.

More information is available at https:// www.playcherokee.org/454/Long-SwampCreek-Recreation-Area.

The Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area in north Cherokee County opened May 2.

Cherokee County leaders, Chamber members and the community celebrated the opening of the Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area with a ribbon cutting May 2.

NORTH CHEROKEE

Live, work, play

Lake Allatoona offers fishing, boating, camping and more

By Rebecca Johnston

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

Woodstock resident Megan Topper is a Lake Warrior who loves volunteering to keep Lake Allatoona clean and beautiful.

She also loves to enjoy all that the lake has to offer, whether it is kayaking or canoeing with friends, hiking the beautiful trails around the lake, or just taking time to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake’s landscape.

“I love to live, work, and play here. I can escape into nature. Cherokee County is an amazing place to raise my family, have a business, and volunteer and Lake Allatoona is a big part of that,” Topper said.

She is not alone. Allatoona Lake is one of the most frequently visited U. S. Army

Corps of Engineers lakes in the country.

Nearly 7 million visitors each year enjoy picnicking, swimming, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, and observing wildlife along the 270 miles of shoreline.

“I love nature, I love the earth, I love the water, I love to explore and have fun. We all need that feeling of being connected to the water,” Topper explained. “I think we need to take time to enjoy all nature offers. There is so much outdoor activity in Cherokee County, I would urge everyone to go hike a trail, rent a canoe or kayak.”

The Lake Warriors volunteers are a part of the Great Allatoona Cleanup and Lake Allatoona Association.

“We organize clean ups for churches, businesses, other groups. Monthly we go out and clean up areas that we know

See LAKE, 8

Jack Tuszynski

Blake Ammons and Kayla Carter kayak while Shane Hobby and his daughter Elyssa use paddleboards on Lake Allatoona.

Jack Tuszynski

Chap Padgett from Cartersville enjoys some quiet time alone near Little River fishing for bass.

COVER STORY

LAKE

From 7

of and help identify areas where help is needed,” Topper said.

The area surrounding Lake Allatoona, located in Cherokee, Bartow and Cobb counties, features rolling hills and dense forests with a mix of hardwoods like oaks and maples as well as evergreen pines providing lush greenery throughout much of the year.

The lake’s shoreline stretches over diverse habitats including wetlands, along coves and rocky bluffs overlooking deep blue waters.

“Lake Allatoona is a beautiful lake. That is why we keep it clean, we want everyone to enjoy it more,” Topper said.

The lake is a fisherman’s paradise, and anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing options including bank, boat, and kayak angling.

The reservoir lake is home to largemouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, hybrid stripers, crappie, catfish species like channel cats and flatheads, as well as bream.

Fishing tournaments are common throughout the year for competitive fishers while casual anglers appreciate the serene environment for leisurely pursuits.

Campers can find a plethora of opportunities around the lake. Lake Allatoona is well equipped to meet the increased

demand of the future with 589 campsites and 188 picnic sites maintained by the Corps of Engineers. Additional facilities in the two counties are found in nine city and county parks, one state park and eight commercial marinas

While many people visit the area to fish or camp, the lake also offers 14 day-use parks. The parks offer a variety of recreation facilities including ball fields, fishing jetties, picnic tables, swimming beaches, horse-shoe pits, volleyball areas, and large picnic shelters. The picnic shelters are ideal for family reunions, birthday parties or company gatherings and may be reserved in advance by visiting www.Recreation.gov.

For those looking to discover all Lake Allatoona and its surrounding lands offer, there are a number of parks conveniently located in Cherokee County.

Two of those, Fields Landing Park and Cherokee Mills Park are operated by Cherokee County Parks and Recreation.

“We are very fortunate to have Allatoona Lake as a natural resource not only for our community, but for the region as well,” Cherokee Recreation and Parks Director Jay Worley said. “The amenities and recreational opportunities this lake provides to us is critical to our Live, Work, and Play Motto.”

Located on Bells Ferry Road near Little River, Cherokee Mills Park offers great

See LAKE, 28

Jack Tuszynski

Larry Gallogly prepares a breakfast omelet for himself and his girlfriend Melania Stepanenko while enjoying the surroundings at Sweetwater Campground. Gallogly is formerly from Canton and was in town from Rhode Island, visiting his parents in the nearby River Green neighborhood.

Jack Tuszynski

Chap Padgett from Cartersville fishes for bass on Lake Allatoona.

County commissioners vote to buy Free Home Elementary campus

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

Cherokee County leaders have taken steps to buy the historic Free Home Elementary School campus, with plans to refurbish it for a variety of potential uses.

On May 6, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the purchase of the Free Home Elementary School site from the Cherokee County School District for $974,100.

The Cherokee County Board of Education was scheduled to consider the sale May 15. The agreement says the closing date can be no longer than 90 days from the execution of the agreement.

The current campus on Highway 20 has been replaced with a new Free Home Elementary that will open in August.

The 6.428 acre site includes the school building and historic Free Home gymnasium. Cherokee County representatives have proposed re-purposing the campus for a potential site for the Sequoyah Regional Library System and a future satellite location for the Cherokee County Tax Commissioner and Cherokee County Tag Office, according to county documents. It could also provide additional athletic fields for Cherokee Recreation and Parks.

“The Free Home community is really

tickled that this site is going to be preserved,” Commissioner Steve West said. “I’m looking forward to seeing things progress there. The building will be retained and hopefully the gym will be refurbished like we did in Hickory Flat, and it could be a community center.”

Chairman Harry Johnston added that the county will consider “a lot of good uses” for the site.

“Great things can happen there — not only the library and tax office, but there will be space for some other things too,” he said. “We haven’t worked all of this out, but I could envision perhaps renting spaces, unless it’s used otherwise, for nonprofits or even people who need an office.”

The funding for purchasing this site comes from the county’s sales of the Old Mill Road potential library site and Hickory Road property adjacent to the Shrine Club, according to county documents.

The first Free Home School was established over 100 years ago. The building on the site was constructed in the 1950s. The campus is on Highway 20, which is slated for widening.

The new Free Home Elementary School campus, just up Ball Ground Road from the current building, is set to officially open Aug. 1 for the first day of school.

Bil on Business

A weekly column addressing small-business, answered by Henssler Financial’s business experts. Submit your questions to businessexperts@henssler.com or call 770-422-6180.

William G. Lako Jr., CFP®

PRINCIPAL AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

Financial Support for Adult Children: A Hidden Drain on Retrement Savings

More than half of parents are providing fnancial support to their adult children— roughly $1,500 monthly—according to a report from Savings.com.

Ofen, this support happens unintentonally. Perhaps your child is stll on the family phone plan, so you’re covering their cell phone bill, or they remain on your insurance untl age 26. You might also be paying for their car insurance if it’s bundled with your policy or if the car remains registered in your name.

While your children are adults, many are stll early in their careers. At the same tme, the cost of living contnues to rise, and entry-level salaries don’t stretch as far. Breaking it down further, working-age Gen Z (ages 18 to 28) receives more support— about $1,800 a month—compared to Millennials (ages 29 to 44), who receive around $860 a month, presumably because they are further along in their careers.

As a parent, it’s natural to want to provide more for your children than you had. While helping them is fulflling, it ofen comes at a cost, straining long-term fnancial goals. Income is fnite, and when support for adult children—averaging $1,589 monthly— outpaces retrement contributons of just $673 monthly, the risk to long-term security grows.

When developing your fnancial plan, it’s important to consider how much you’re spending on your children. A $1,500 monthly expense adds up to $18,000 annually and should be factored into your overall spending. It’s similar to paying for your children’s college educaton: if you can aford to do so, that’s wonderful—but not at the expense of your retrement. There are mechanisms like student loans, grants, and scholarships to help fund educaton; there are no loans to fund your retrement.

According to a Savings.com report, groceries and food were among the top categories where parents provided

fnancial support. With the rising cost of food, groceries have become a signifcant expense, and many parents don’t want to see their adult children surviving on $0.39 packages of ramen noodles. However, many of us remember the struggle of waitng for the next paycheck to splurge on pizza delivery. To some extent, those struggles— and the lessons learned from overcoming them—fuel the drive to do beter. You worked to get beter jobs, became more disciplined in saving, and planned for the future because you didn’t want to return to those difcult tmes.

If providing for your children is an important responsibility to you, it should be intentonally incorporated into your fnancial plan. We ofen see investors plan for expenses like mult-generatonal family vacatons or annual gifs. Some prefer to share their wealth while alive, allowing them to witness and partcipate in their children’s success rather than waitng to pass it along afer death.

However, while the parental instnct is to take care of your children, the “Bank of Mom and Dad” can eventually dry up— making it critcal to consider how today’s decisions will impact your fnancial security 10 or 15 years from now. About 47 percent of survey respondents reported sacrifcing their own fnancial security for their children, with nine out of 10 parents saying they would make additonal sacrifces to support their working-age children. If this is the case, all partes should meet with a fnancial adviser to review spending and assess how long assets are likely to last under current paterns.

If you have questions on how your business can navigate these tough economic times, contact Henssler Financial at 770-422-6180, businessexperts@ henssler.com, or Henssler.com/ businessexperts.

NEWS BRIEFS

NEWS AROUND CHEROKEE COUNTY

DEVELOPER NIXES PLANS FOR MEDICAL COMPLEX ON UNION HILL ROAD

A developer who received approval from Cherokee County to build a medical complex in the Avery community is no longer moving forward with the development, county officials report.

Then-Commissioner Steve West, who represented the area and coordinated with the developer, Mack Development Group, during the zoning process, said the developer has walked away from the deal.

West did not give a reason for the change.

A representative of the developer did not respond to a request for comment.

The property is located at 7658 Union Hill Road, at the East Cherokee Drive intersection near Avery Elementary School.

The property may now be available at less than the previous asking price, Commission Chair Harry Johnston told constituents in his Chairman’s Update newsletter.

County leaders are considering buying the property to transform it into a future park.

“We are exploring that option for use as a park, though it would be years before we actually construct a park there,” Johnston told the Ledger. “If the school system comes to need the property before then, selling it to them would be another good option.”

In March, county commissioners voted 3-2 to approve the developer’s application to rezone about 7.45 acres from general agriculture to office institutional to build between two and five buildings, totaling up to 50,000 square feet. Johnston and Commissioner Benny Carter voted against the motion to approve that request.

The decision came after a February public hearing, where residents voiced both opposition to and support for the development. A group of neighbors opposing the medical complex reported they collected over 950 signatures.

BALL GROUND EXPANDS ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT HOURS

The Ball Ground City Council has expanded hours when adults may carry alcoholic beverages from bars and restaurants within a designated entertainment area in the city’s downtown.

The council voted unanimously May 8 to extend the open container hours to 4-10 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, noon till 10 p.m. Saturdays and noon till 7 p.m. Sundays. The original open-container policy enacted in January was limited to Fridays and Saturdays. The new hours went into effect May 9.

Ball Ground City Manager Eric Wilmarth said restaurants and other enterprises in the city experienced a significant increase in business after the open container policy’s enactment in January, and he expects the expanded times will bring more revenue to the downtown area.

“Since we created the entertainment district, we have had zero alcohol-related incidents, and our citizens are very support-

ive of the policy,” Wilmarth said. “The only complaints I’ve heard are from people who want to know why we don’t do it every day.”

Mayor Rick Roberts said he supports the change. As to why alcohol isn’t permitted on city streets in the district every day, he points to Highway 372.

“Other nearby cities don’t have state highways running through their downtowns,” Roberts said.

Ball Ground’s entertainment district generally defined as “on the bricks” or the sidewalks along Gilmer Ferry Road/Ball Ground Road between the four-way stop at Old Canton Road and the intersection at Civic Drive, according to the map. Specific sections of Civic Drive, Old Dawsonville Road and Old Canton Road are also included.

Alcohol is not allowed in Calvin Farmer Park, Lions Field or other city-owned and maintained properties, including parking lots.

Alcoholic drinks taken outside must be purchased from licensed businesses and carried in approved containers provided by the sellers. Alcohol is not permitted during certain family-oriented events, including the annual Christmas parade and the Spooktacular.

For the full ordinance and more information, visit cityofballground.com/opencontainer-alcohol-district.

CANTON SELECTED FOR SOUTHERN CITIES ECONOMIC INITIATIVE

The city of Canton has been selected by the National League of Cities to participate in the Southern Cities Eco -

nomic Initiative.

This three-year initiative will provide grant funding and assistance to 20 selected southern U.S. cities to boost economic mobility for residents and drive long-term economic growth in their communities, according to NLC. SCEI provides cities with the data, tools, resources and funding to address various challenges such as affordable housing head on.

All of the cities will receive $15,000 grants for a six-month planning phase, according to NLC. At the end of the planning phase, cities will have an opportunity to be selected for a continuing implementation phase, during which a city can apply for a second grant of up to $60,000.

In addition to grant funding, participating cities will engage in peer learning opportunities, receive tailored technical assistance, and participate in convenings and site visits to support their local economic goals. SCEI cities will also have access to data and content experts from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta as well as connections to national funders and assistance to leverage their NLC grants toward longer-term funding.

According to the league, SCEI cities will explore innovative approaches to support small businesses, strengthen the workforce and boost the financial well-being of residents.

For more information about SCEI, visit tinyurl.com/3d559khe.

MULTI-USE TRAIL COMING TO BELLS FERRY ROAD

Cherokee County leaders are looking to build a multi-use trail along Bells Ferry Road.

On May 6, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve a $680,499 amendment to an agreement with Thomas and Hutton to prepare preliminary engineering plans and right-of-way plans for the Bells Ferry Road Multi-Use Trail project.

According to the county, the Bells Ferry Road Corridor LCI Multi-Use Trail Project will provide critical access and connectivity between multifamily residential units and nearby businesses and services along the corridor.

The trail will be a 3.5-mile side-path along Bells Ferry Road from the county line with Cobb County to Victory Drive.

The agreement includes the design of the first phase from Robin Road to Eagle Drive.

All of Phase 1 will be on the west side of Bells Ferry Road. The project will then cross Bells Ferry Road at the northern terminus of Eagle Drive and will continue north through the second phase on the east side of Bells Ferry Road, according to the county. The second phase will be from Eagle Drive to Victory Drive and the third phase will be from Robin Road to the Cobb County line near Summer Drive. This could be modified as the engineering phase starts.

Cherokee County entered into a project framework agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for the design portion of the project. GDOT will oversee and reimburse the county for the federal funds portion of the project, according to county documents. Remaining funding will come from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax.

Thomas and Hutton Engineering Company has completed the concept development and report, survey database and environmental studies. The next steps in the project’s design include preliminary plans and right of way plans.

The county completed conceptual work and some preliminary environmental documentation tasks for the first phase.

The county expects to award a construction contract to a bidder in fall 2028.

The construction is estimated to take 18 months.

The projected cost estimate is $8.3 million. County representatives say their goal is to secure federal funding to cover 80% of that cost, making the county’s out-of-pocket costs closer to $1.6 million.

The path will be built into the scope of the Bells Ferry Road widening project under construction, according to the county. The widening project, expected to be completed Oct. 31, 2028, will transform the highway to two lanes on each side, along with a raised median.

Anthony Stalcup

The BBQ and Brews Festival was held in Downtown Ball Ground April 5.

LOCAL COLUMNIST|CHRIS COLLETT

The greatest gifts are small acts of kindness

In a free world where we can be anything we want, for goodness sake, let’s be kind. American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” His quote is simple but profound. It’s been my experience that small acts of kindness are the greatest gifts one can receive.

When I see people showing kindness to those I love, it means more to me than if they do something for me. Looking back on my life, I could write a book about all the wonderful folks who have gone out of their way for me. It would take a long time to mention them all. The book would be thickly filled with stories about people that many of you know. I’m sure you could write a similar book.

“The best portion of a man’s life, his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love.” Ain’t that the truth.

I met Mitch and Donna Wheeler many years ago. They were friends with my parents which awarded me their friendship by default. In his younger days, Mitch was a regular at Canton Golf Club. He didn’t just play the game. He played it well. Some of us boys at the club used to talk about how bad it would hurt getting hit with one of Mitch’s big hands. His hands make two of mine. And yes, young boys talk about stuff like that.

One of the greatest feelings in the world is listening to your parents laugh. I miss Daddy’s laugh.

ily. A lot of people talk a good game. The Wheelers live it.

Those who are good to my family will always hold a special place in my heart. There are people you and I know who are always there when there is a need. No one knows because they don’t broadcast their good deeds. I’m pretty sure that’s Bible. The late poet William Wordsworth said,

Daddy always enjoyed time with Mitch on the golf course. He and Donna spent a lot of time socializing with my Mama and Daddy. Though the Wheelers were several years younger than my parents, their friendship was solid. And it would be a friendship which carries on unto this day.

Before Daddy got sick, I’d sometimes hear him on the phone laughing up a storm. I’d ask Mama who he was talking to. She’d say he was talking to Donna. They had a similar sense of humor and liked to give each other a hard time.

Daddy has been gone for almost eleven years now. In his absence, Mama still gets calls from Donna to just “check on her.” That in itself may not seem like a whole lot to some. And that’s OK. It means the world to me.

Donna takes the time for Mama, and I’m betting many of you, while she and Mitch face a battle of their own. Mitch got sick which led to him having a kidney transplant. Sometimes those things go smoothly. At other times, some have complications. Unfortunately, Mitch has some complications. It puzzles me how something like this could happen to such a big, strong man. Yet I understand, we are all just one diagnosis from facing a serious illness. One diagnosis. It can come that quickly.

Donna and Mitch are a big part of the history of the Free Home Community. And as long as I’ve known them, they’ve been good to my parents. So, I’m taking this platform to thank them for the kindness they’ve always shown my fam-

In the Book of James, 1:27, it reads, “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”

Modern technology has made visiting much easier. We can visit with a phone call if we have no other way. Every time Donna calls Mama to check on her, it’s a perfect example of one of those little acts of kindness. Throughout the years, all those little acts add up to something bigger than we can imagine.

I saw Donna not long ago. She is still as beautiful as she was the first time I met her. Inside and out. With everything going on in her life, she was taking the time to visit a family who had experienced a loss. That is the kind of people the Wheelers are. I love Mitch and Donna Wheeler. There’s a good chance many of you do too. I hope you’ll join me in praying for Mitch’s full recovery. I think God likes it when we ask.

Chris Collett is a lifelong resident of Cherokee County.

COLUMNIST|LYNN GENDUSA

My mother, Elizabeth, passed away almost 15 years ago, but her presence is still vivid in my life. When I converse with others who have experienced a similar loss, we all echo the same sentiment. We find solace in the cherished memories they left us and the enduring effects of their love.

My dreams often bring my mother back to me, offering comfort and reassurance. Sometimes, I wake up feeling a pang of sadness, wishing that the dream was a reality and she was still with me. While my faith assures me that we will be reunited one day, for now, I find solace in the signs she sends from above.

Many of my friends lost their mothers when they were much younger than me. There is an ongoing sadness for the important times not shared with Mom. The days their mother didn’t see them marry or meet a child that looked like Aunt Susie or Grandma. They heroically carry their sorrow through the days and years that pass. We all learn to live onward without Mom, but when we love Mama, we always wish she had not left. No matter her age, when she passed, it was too soon.

Many of us share a common regret: wishing we had done more while our mothers were still with us. The words left unspoken, and the actions left uncompleted can haunt us, intensifying our grief.

Always missing mom

their goals. In this process, they often forget to return calls or texts and don’t rely on me as much as they used to. At first, this shift hurt a little. However, I now understand this is how it’s meant to be.

God prepares us for the inevitable last breath. He and I want our children to be independent and capable of caring for themselves and their loved ones.

After my father and only sibling died, it left just Mom and me to carry on. We lost both within 18 months and thank the Good Lord that we were strong enough to weather the storm. We leaned on each other and drowned our grief in Scrabble games and Mom’s homemade peanut butter sweets.

One day, while I was driving her somewhere, she asked, “Lynn, are you going to be okay when I leave? You will be alone.”

“Mom, I will be fine. Remember, I have my kids, my husband, and God.” I responded, trying to assure her.

“But, Lynn, it’s not the same. “

I didn’t fully understand her statement, but I do now. When our mothers leave, we never fill the void with anyone or anything. It’s just the way it is.

My mother was the wisest woman I ever knew. She never judged others because she understood the misery it could cause. Discrimination, hatefulness, and dishonesty were abhorrent to her. She was a quiet, resolute, fair, and competitive woman with a healthy sense of stubbornness. I admired her not only as my mom but also as a remarkable woman. I regret she did not share and tell us more about her life and experiences.

However, perhaps we didn’t ask. Maybe we didn’t want to know because we were too tired or busy to listen. It could be that we didn’t take the time, and then time ran out?

In the final hours before her death, Mother grasped my hand tightly, even though she was unconscious. At first, I thought she was trying to hold on because she didn’t want to leave. Now, I realize she was trying to spare me the pain of losing her.

We are grateful for the mothers who are still with us and those who embrace us from afar. We can never fully express our gratitude for their love and dedication to us, their children.

It’s the times we didn’t thank them enough, visit more, or apologize for any pain and tears we caused. Most of the time, it’s too late for those things because the business of our lives got in the way.

I see it clearly in my children now. They are all in a busy phase of life, focused on working, worrying, and striving to achieve

I ascertain it is another life test: how we handle suffering, retain happy moments, and reach up toward heaven to ease our days. As my dear grandmother said, “Grief, pain, and anguish give us wisdom and empathy if our hearts and faith are in the right place.”

Lordy, that’s the truth!

“A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one can take.” Cardinal Gaspard Mermillod Dedicated to Mom, Elizabeth Walker, with love.

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

Collett

Special

Lynn Gendusa’s mother, Elizabeth Walker, holding her brother, John, in 1941.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Time is of the essence

DEAR

EDITOR:

Nine of the world’s nations have nuclear weapons, three of them our enemies — Russia, China, and North Korea. Perhaps the most urgent problem the world now faces is trying to prevent the radical terrorist state of Iran from completing their development of a nuclear weapon.

In recent decades, Iran has been the largest sponsor of terrorism in the Middle East, the degree varying largely depending on which American president was sitting in the White House, with the October 7, 2023, brutal Hamas attack on Israeli civilians the most horrific. As many as 24 hostages continue to be held by Hamas, including one American, Edan Alexander.

In addition to Hamas, other Iran terrorist proxies are the Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. Israel has made significant progress in weakening Hezbollah, after continued attacks on Israel’s northern territory. Israel also has eliminating significant air defenses in Iran, in response to Iran’s October 2024 missile attack on Israel that was repelled by Israel and its allies including America.

The Houthis in Yemen have arguably had the greatest impact on the world’s commerce. The Houthis began attacks on commercial shipping in late 2023, resulting in 2000 ships avoiding the Red Sea, costing millions if not billions of dollars as well as delays in shipping. America and Britain continue to take out Houthi missile installations in Yemen. Iran has been working to develop a

nuclear weapon for well over 3 decades. Iran leadership claims that they are enriching uranium for peaceful nuclear power purposes. Low enrichment uranium is needed for a power plant, higher enrichment only for weapons. Iran also has missile capabilities and is developing longer-range missiles. Reports state that Iran may be weeks away from having a nuclear weapon.

The Trump administration began negotiations with Iran in April. Commercial sanctions have been in place since February. By the end of May, or perhaps early June, the demand from the U.S. is that Iran will either voluntarily begin dismantling their nuclear weapons program or it will be destroyed, by the U.S. and Israel. Iran has never provided complete access to international inspection of their nuclear program. They are not likely to agree to dismantle their program now.

To better understand why Iran can’t be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, consider the war on Ukraine, with hundreds of thousands of casualties, including an estimated 13,000 civilians killed, deliberately targeted by a nuclear Russia. Even though Iran’s radical leadership has consistently threatened the elimination of Israel and the United States, President Trump is providing the opportunity for a peaceful solution. Iran can not be allowed to succeed by delaying negotiations until a weapon is ready. Time is running out — for Iran.

Bruce Purvis Hickory Flat

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, g A 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.

We all have more in common than you think

DEAR EDITOR:

There’s a lot of anger in our community right now. I see it in the names we call each other, the signs in our yards, and the walls we’ve built between neighbors who used to wave across the driveway. People are frustrated and scared. But at the end of the day, most of us want the same basic things: safety, fairness, opportunity, and a future for the people we love.

I’m a liberal. I know that label means a lot of different things to different people. But I’m not a stranger — I’m your neighbor. I care about Cherokee County. I care about families being able to afford groceries and medicine. I care about kids making it home safe. I care about veterans getting what they were promised. I care about human life being valued more than

profit margins or political points.

And no — I’m not being paid to protest or speak out. I go to rallies and write letters because I care. Because I want to leave this place better than I found it.

I believe government should serve people, not corporations. I believe no one should go bankrupt because they got sick. and I believe that protecting each other — no matter our background or beliefs — isn’t radical. It’s the foundation of a strong community.

We don’t have to agree on every issue to work together on what matters. All I ask is that we try — really try — to see each other as people first, not party lines. Because we’re better than that.

Rachel Smith Waleska

Hickory Flat and the sidewalk to nowhere

Hickory Flat’s being dug up made tree-less, paved over

Gone are the gullies, wildflowers, and clover

We’ve got deer in our yard

It’s not very hard

To see why they’re there

The wood’s been laid bare

Our new sidewalk to nowhere is reminding us that Citification” has come to Hickory Flat

How many joggers will actually use it

How many walkers will happily choose it

Bikers and skate boarders honor its name the sidewalk to nowhere its new claim to fame

What we needed was more car lanes

The traffic is horrendous

The Gridlock is massive

The back up stupendous

Hemmed in by the sidewalk with the curb on each side

Hickory Road will forever

Be gridlocked in time

It’s the curb that’s so sly and we want to know why this urbanization has defied imagination

We’d thought Hickory Flat was beyond all of that

We’d left urban behind

For a rural state of mind

Hickory Flat is rising

Her destiny is clear

To be Georgia’s most populous village is near.

Hear the voice whisper as day is done

If you put in new sidewalks they surely will come”

And the message becomes clear as the day turns to night

Take the sidewalk — it’s faster”

Hickory Flat’s outta sight

Monica Leigh Hickory Flat

♦ I just had two motorcycles pass me doing 80 mph down on the Wade Green Speedway. They obviously had no fear of law enforcement, because there isn’t any…

♦ Nobody wants Trump to fail, because if he fails, the country of the United States would fail, and then that would take us all down.

♦ The President’s big beautiful bill is a bill to taxpayers to cover his grafting as everything he’s signing into action is about his own wallet and a few of his closest friends — who is really defrauding the system here?

♦ We will never buy another Samsung product again. Our French door refrigerator has been nothing but trouble ever since the warranty ran out.

♦ I am a senior citizen living in Woodstock, Georgia for many, many years. I learned many years ago that there is nothing that is black and white. We must consider all sides before we can make a decision. Can you imagine if all parties worked together today to make America great again?

♦ If you want out of this mess, then vote out these U.S. Republican reps in 2026: Rich McCormick, Barry Loudermilk, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Mike Collins, Rick Allen, Andrew Clyde, Austin Scott, Brian Jack, and Earl Carter. These are the people supporting Trump and are part of his fascist regime that is destroying our country.

♦ I agree with a previous reader’s post

about the well-being of all the wildlife at the planned Little River Park. Do we need another park in Woodstock? Also, why were the issues with the house that had been partially renovated only to be torn down due to issues in the building not known before the renovation process was started? I assume that expense will be included in the taxes I pay for a park that I don’t want. Also, the boulders on the property are being destroyed. These acts of God and Woodstock history are an important part of this city. Why don’t they work around these beautiful pieces of nature for an incredible entrance to the park?

♦ When is the supervisor at Teasley Middle School and the administration going to make the custodian on 7th grade hall get the graffiti off the boy’s bathroom? It has been there for two months.

♦ Please ask Miss Greene where she is buying her eggs. I have not been able to find a store that has cut egg costs 59% as she stated in a news interview seen April 28 on TV. Does she know the difference between percentage and cents?

♦ Hey Harry, I saw your article in the May version of Soapbox, and I was wondering, why are you spending $3.2 million on a roundabout in Ball Ground when half the roads in Cherokee County have potholes? Why don’t we take care of the general taxpayers first, and then we’ll worry about wasting $3.2 million on a roundabout that actually infuriates

most people.

♦ You know you’re old when your toes outnumber your teeth.

♦ Has anyone else in north Cherokee County had rat problems due to all the new construction going around?

♦ The number of dead people receiving SS is minimal. To give kudos to DOGE for removing millions of illegals from the Social Security benefits is ignorant. These immigrants pay Social Security taxes, but will never receive Social Security benefits. Also, who will pick our fruit and our vegetables? Who will build our homes? And who will mow our lawns, without immigrants?

♦ It appears that Shannon wasn’t that Sharpe.

♦ To the mayor of Holly Springs: Come off of Holly Springs Parkway, Old Highway 5, onto Toonigh Road. Would you notice

the first mile or so of Toonigh Road is coming all to pieces? In places the road has collapsed. If an emergency vehicle were to hit that, it could possibly mean we lost a sheriff’s deputy car, an ambulance or a fire engine. Where are our taxes going?

♦ In truth, DOGE uncovered no more fraud and abuse than the fired inspectors general found every year. The proof? Zero charges brought. What they actually did was compile a central database of the medical, banking, online and employment data of every single American, privacy be damned. And for what purpose, and accessed by whom, completely unknown. For persecution? For control? For sale? Unknown and un-American.

♦ If The Donald and his GOP lemmings would learn some lessons from the humility of Pope Francis, both we and the world would be better off.

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.

DINING

Arzeh Grill brings Lebanese cuisine to Woodstock

By Jorden Hampton

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

WOODSTOCK — A new Lebanese restaurant, Arzeh Grill, has opened in Woodstock.

The restaurant, owned by husbandwife duo Anthony and Lauren Habchy, celebrated its soft opening in Woodstock on April 21.

Arzeh Grill is located at 224 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite B, which was previously the Hallmark Tropical Food Store.

“It’s been several different restaurants over time,” Lauren Habchy said. “People are like, ‘Oh, that was the old Waffle King, or that was an old Subway, so you didn’t have to build something. You just had to make it your own.’”

Anthony Habchy is a Lebanese chef who has opened several restaurants in Lebanon. Lauren currently works as a senior quality analyst for Bank of America and will handle the financial aspects of the restaurant.

Arzeh Grill aims to provide healthy options to offset the processed food available in the area, the Habchys said.

Menu items include beef kebabs, chicken shawarma, falafel, tabbouleh and fattoush salads, hummus, vegetarian cheese rolls and more.

There are halal and vegan options, and French fries are cooked in beef tallow instead of oil.

Drink options include iced tea, tropical iced tea, and a soda fountain.

“The food is good and clean, is made with quality ingredients, and has good flavor,” Lauren Habchy said. “And then just all of the love that gets put into it, because the Lebanese people are known for hospitality.”

Anthony Habchy said he imports spices from Lebanon and does not use substitutes.

“The spices and ingredients make the food taste good,” he said. “We want to make our customers feel like they are eating in Lebanon.”

Using traditional ingredients can be challenging because of the lack of resources available for Middle Eastern food.

The food is made from scratch, and no preservatives are added, the owners said.

Lauren Habchy, who has lived overseas, said she respects the Mediterranean diet and is excited to bring it to the Woodstock area.

“I’ve always tried to do organic fruits and

vegetables and provide the right things,”

Lauren Habchy said. “I already knew that the food was going to be delicious because Anthony is an amazing chef, but having lived there and having tasted the food, it made sense.”

The couple began working on opening the restaurant in October, and demolition started in November.

They had initially hoped to open in February, but contracting delays halted production, and the Habchys had to exercise patience until they could open Arzeh Grill in April.

“We signed our loan documents April 1 and then it’s just been a couple of weeks of getting food in and inventory in,” Lauren Habchy said.

Arzeh Grill is open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

“It’s been a long time coming, and I’m excited to finally open,” Anthony Habchy said. “I am open to customer feedback and want to meet customer expectations.”

For more information about Arzeh Grill, visit https://arzehgrill.com or follow Arzeh Grill on Facebook.

Special/Courtesy of Lauren habchy Anthony and Lauren Habchy in Lebanon.

Jorden hampton

One of Arzeh Grill’s salads.

Jorden hampton

Fresh shawarma ready to eat.

Jorden hampton

Arzeh Grill celebrated its soft opening in Woodstock April 21.

Jorden hampton

Hummus served at Arzeh Grill.

Jorden hampton

Arzeh Grill’s lava stone grill was imported from Turkey.

Wild Fryz to offer build-your-own fry options

By Ethan Johnson ejohnson@ledgernews.com

A new restaurant that will allow visitors to build their own fries with a variety of toppings is coming to downtown Woodstock.

Wild Fryz is a new venture by Woodstock resident Thomas Cantley, coming to Adair Park in downtown Woodstock.

Cantley told the Ledger he was aiming to open in late spring to early summer, and that the restaurant is planned to operate out of a 35-foot shipping container at the edge of Adair Park’s green space.

Visitors to the restaurant will be able to choose from various types of fries — standard, curly, sweet potato, yucca, zucchini and more. Then, they’ll be able to choose from a range of protein options including brisket, pulled pork, chicken and tofu, and add various toppings and sauces.

“Some of the stuff on the menu is 100% vegan — I have a fry for everything, whether you’re trying to be health conscious or you’re trying to keep it vegan or gluten free, I want to be able to have decadent food but also be health conscious,” he said. “We are researching a lot of different options for different fry oils so no seed oils are used. I am going to have an air fry option, beef tallow and duck fat options too. We want to hear from the community on what they want and like.”

Wild Fryz will also offer beer. Cantley added that he plans on partnering with Reformation Brewery in the future on a custom beer that will be served at the restaurant.

The restaurant is the culmination of a five-year journey, Cantley said, adding that concept planning and finding the right location were key points of emphasis.

“When I came up with the idea of Wild Fryz, I needed to look at something that would sustain and hold, and a name that would stand

out across all social platforms and that I would own,” Cantley said. “Through this name, I want people to understand what I am going for with this concept. It’s a simple name and tells people exactly what to expect. Woodstock is the perfect fit.”

Cantley, who has experience in marketing and producing films, said it was a journey to get back to doing what he loves, cooking.

“I thought about opening my own restaurant about five years ago, and about two years ago I had the opportunity to train some chefs, so I found my passion again,” he said. “I took it as a sign from God, especially after losing two of my top inspirations for cooking in my mom and grandmother.”

While building his restaurant concept, Cantley has returned to the kitchen cooking for celebrities, working as a private chef, catering and more.

Cantley, who was born in Canada, moved to California when he was a child. He later made his way to New York. Eventually, a decade ago, he settled in Woodstock, a city he said he’s proud to call home.

“I moved here when I was doing a commercial for the 2016 Rio Olympics — we were doing some small-town filming that we needed to do, and Woodstock was one of the places. We saw the Woodstock Farmers Market and started doing some interviews and I fell in love with the city. It’s like something out of Hallmark,” Cantley said. “I found a place in Woodstock, and I’ve loved building relationships and love being involved with the community. I love this city.”

When it opens, Wild Fryz is planned to be open for lunch and dinner only, seven days a week, Cantley said, and open late on weekends.

Adair Park is located at 8256 Main St. in downtown Woodstock.

For more information about Wild Fryz, visit tinyurl.com/2s3a8snh.

Jekyll Brewing closes all locations

By Joseph Bennett

Jekyll Brewing has closed all five of its brewery/restaurant locations, including the one in downtown Woodstock, founder and CEO Michael Lundmark announced.

The brewery’s last day was May 11.

“Costs went up 45 percent, and sales went down 50 percent due to overall economic downturn of the past two years,”

Lundmark said. “This was simply unsustainable. My heart breaks for our staff and I pray they will all find something good from this change in their own households.

“I wish it were different. I’ve been told God won’t give us more than we can handle. Prayers and well wishes to all that touched our brand in a positive way.”

Lundmark said he is not yet ready to discuss what will happen to Jekyll’s equipment and facilities. The Woodstock loca-

tion at 8634 Main St. is in the rebuilt historic Johnston Building. Two others are in Alpharetta; one is in Gainesville; the other is in Jacksonville Beach, Fla.

Lundmark opened his first brewery. The Marconi Taproom, in Alpharetta in 2013. The two-level Woodstock location opened in 2022.

Jekyll takes its name from Jekyll Island where Major William Horton established colonial Georgia’s first brewery in the 18th century.

Special — Wild Fryz

Wild Fryz will offer a variety of fries with customizable options for proteins, toppings and sauces.

Special — Wild Fryz

In this take on chili cheese fries, steak fries are wrapped in bacon and topped with bean and pork brisket chili, cheddar, kimchi and barbecue corn chips.

Special — Wild Fryz

Wild Fryz will offer a variety of fry options, proteins and toppings. Pictured is tater tots topped with a vegan pulled pork and other toppings. WOODSTOCK

For the Cherokee Ledger Monthly

File/Tim Wassberg

Jekyll Brewing’s Cooter Brown Ale.



The Service League’s charity golf tournament is June 13

Staff reports

The Service League of Cherokee County is teeing up its annual charity golf tournament set for June, raising funds to help meet the basic needs of children around the county.

The 7th Annual Golfing FORE! the Children charity golf tournament is June 13 at Fairways of Canton Golf Course.

A shotgun start is set for 9 a.m.

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit children in Cherokee County through the Service League’s casework programs. Funds raised will help provide children with critical needs such as housing, medical care, vision screenings and glasses, clothing, and scholarships.

“We are excited to welcome our community back to the course for a day of fun that truly makes a difference,” said Jennifer Ghorley, golf tournament chair. “Every dollar raised goes right back into Cherokee County to support the well-being of our children.”

The tournament is open to individuals and teams. Registration is $130 per golfer or $500 per foursome. Each registration includes a round of golf, golf cart rental, breakfast, lunch, and one raffle ticket. Sponsorships are also available.

Fairways of Canton is located at 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway in Canton.

To register as a golfer, visit https://www.eventeny.com/events/ vendor/?id=31465.

For sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.eventeny. com/events/golfingforethechildren-19853.

Sequoyah Regional Library System hosting Summer Discovery

The Sequoyah Regional Library System is hosting its Summer Discovery Reading Challenge from June 1 to July 31.

This year’s theme is “Color Our World.”

The challenge is for all ages. Participants will be able to earn prizes and limited-edition trading cards.

SRLS will host several Summer Discovery kick-off events with magician Jeffini the Great:

♦ 10:30 a.m. June 3, Ball Ground Public Library

♦ 2 p.m. June 3, Hickory Flat Public Library

♦ 10:30 a.m. June 5, Rose Creek Public Library

♦ 1:30 p.m. June 5, R.T. Jones Memorial Library

♦ 4:30 p.m. June 5, Pickens County Library

♦ 10 a.m. June 6, Gilmer County Library

♦ 2 p.m. June 6, Woodstock Public Library

Community members can participate in the Summer Discovery Challenge by registering on the free Beanstack app to log reading and complete activities and challenges

for the chance to win prizes and trading cards. In celebration of Summer Discovery 2025, SRLS will be fine free from the beginning of June through the end of July. Items returned to the library will not have overdue fines. Some fines may be excluded. For more information, ask library staff.

Library cards at SRLS are free to those who live or own property in Cherokee, Pickens and Gilmer counties. For more information, visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org.

Service League of Cherokee County

The Service League of Cherokee County’s Golfing FORE! the Children will be held June 13 at the Fairways of Canton Golf Course.

Service League of Cherokee County

Service League members Melissa Day and Laura Killen at the 2024 Golfing FORE! the Children tournament.

CANTON

Staff reports

COMMUNITY EVENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CHEROKEE IN JUNE

JUNE 5

SUMMER DISCOVERY KICK-OFF

The Sequoyah Regional Library System is kicking off its Summer Discovery 2025: Color Our World with magician Jeffini the Great at 1:30 p.m. June 5 at R.T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. For more Summer Discovery and other SRLS events, visit https://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org.

JUNE 6

CANTON FIRST FRIDAY

The Troubadour Project is performing at Canton’s First Friday concert from 6-9 p.m. June 6 at Cannon Park, 130 E Main St. in downtown Canton. The event features food and beverage vendors, a kids zone, a cruise-in, and late night shopping options in the downtown district.

The Troubadour Project faithfully recreates all the sounds, vibe, and essence of the most iconic rock bands from the 1970s, delivered by world class musicians and vocalists.

JUNE 7

LUCIANE DOM

Luciane Dom is performing at Woodstock Arts’ Lantern Series concert at 7:30 p.m. June 7 at the Woodstock Arts Event Green, 113 Elm St. in Woodstock. Dom is a multilingual singer and songwriter from Brazil performing songs influenced by Afrobeat, reggae, jazz and more. Tickets start at $20 for general admission on the lawn. For tickets and more information, visit https://woodstockarts.org/events/ luciane-dom.

JUNE 8

STRENGTH TO SURVIVE GOLF OUTING

The third annual Strength to Survive golf outing is June 8 at Fairways of Canton Golf Club, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway in Canton. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. The day includes golf, a buffet lunch, games on the course, and prizes. Proceeds will benefit the nonprofit TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.

Registration is $125 per golfer or foursome for $500. To register, visit https:// JuneGolf25.givesmart.com. For more information about TurningPoint, visit https://myturningpoint.org.

JUNE 13

GOLFING FORE! THE CHILDREN

The 7th Annual Golfing FORE! the Children charity golf tournament is June 13 at Fairways of Canton Golf Course, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway in Canton. A shotgun start is set for 9 a.m. Proceeds from the event sup -

In this 2023 photo, Jeffini the Great and a chosen helper from the audience perform a

port the Service League of Cherokee County’s programs for children in the community. Registration is $130 per golfer or $500 per foursome. For registration, sponsorship opportunities or for more information, visit https://serviceleague.net.

JUNE 14

NORTH GEORGIA TRUCKFEST

Dixie Speedway is hosting the North Georgia Truckfest June 14 at 150 Dixie Drive in Woodstock. The event will include stock car racing, a Mega Truck-Tuff

Truck Tug A War, a Pick Up Truck Demo Derby, Show N Shine contest and more. The pit and tailgate gates will open at 3 p.m., and the grandstand will open at 5 p.m. Practice laps will begin at 6:30 p.m. with racing to follow at 7 p.m. Tickets are

See EVENTS, 19

ethan Johnson

magic trick at the Ball Ground Public Library.

Shannon Ballew

In this June 2022 photo, a large crowd listens to music from the Fly Betty Band before Ball Ground’s fireworks show.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

EVENTS

From 18

$23 for adults and$13 for children 13 to 17. Tickets are general admission and will also be available for purchase at the gates on race night. For rules, tickets and more information, visit https://www.dixiespeedway.com.

JUNE 14

HOLLY SPRINGS HARMONIES

The Holly Springs Harmonies free summer concert series kicks off June 14 with a concert from AudioVault, from 6-9 p.m. June 14 at the Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road in Holly Springs.

AudioVault is an Atlanta-based band playing party rock hits from the 80s, 90s, and beyond. The concert is hosted by the Holly Springs Town Center.

JUNE 14

GIN BLOSSOMS

The Woodstock Summer Concert Series returns with Gin Blossoms performing at 7:30 p.m. June 14 at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road.

The series features a free concert once a month in the amphitheater from May to September.

For rules and more information about the concert series, visit https://www. woodstockconcertseries.com.

JUNE 19

DRAGONS AND MAGIC

Visit Woodstock GA’s Family Fun Night returns 5-8 p.m. June 19 in downtown Woodstock. This month’s theme is “Dragons and Magic.” Magical activities will be held around downtown, including a showing of “How to Train Your Dragon” on the big screen.

For more information, visit www.VisitWoodstockGA.com/family-fun.

JUNE 21

CANTON RIVER ROCK

The Canton River Rock series returns at 6 p.m. June 21 at Etowah River Park,

Etowah River Park, 500 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton. The headliner is Sammy Kershaw, and also performing is Drake Milligan.

The concert is free to attend. There will be local food trucks, beverage vendors, a children’s area and more.

JUNE 28

BALL GROUND FIREWORKS AND CONCERT CELEBRATION

Ball Ground’s annual celebration and concert ahead of Independence Day is 7-11 p.m. June 28 at City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road. Fly Betty is performing a concert starting at 7 p.m. followed by the fireworks show at 9:45 p.m.

Special — city of Woodstock

The Family Fun Night Series is returning to downtown Woodstock on the third Thursday of the month May through August.

Gin Blossoms will be performing on June 14.

Assessment notices delayed

Staff reports

New state laws and a voter-approved referendum are forcing changes to how assessment notices are calculated and formatted, causing expected delays in mailing the notices in Cherokee County.

tion County Commissioners of Georgia, and others to make sure we are implementing the laws correctly.”

Due to the changes, Cherokee County’s Notices of Assessment for the 2025 tax year are expected to be delayed until mid-June, the county announced.

The assessments are used to calculate property taxes.

While mid-June is the estimate, Chief Appraiser Steve Swindell told county and city leadership that his office would meet the statutory deadline of July 1.

Historically, the Cherokee County Tax Assessor’s Office mails over 100,000 assessment notices by the second week in May. The tax assessor’s office appraises all property within Cherokee County. The office estimates that more than 118,000 assessment notices will be sent this year.

Visit us online at: brumbyrocker.com

“All of these changes have put a burden on the normal schedule of operations, and tax assessor’s offices across the state are trying to figure out how to make the changes work all together in the software system. We are beholden to the state software system to properly apply exemption calculations for the Notices of Assessment and formulate the tax digest,” Swindell said. “We have been working with our professional organizations, the state Department of Revenue, the Associa-

The Georgia General Assembly addressed several bills related to property taxes and assessments this past session, and voters approved a statewide homestead freeze in November 2024.

Cherokee County and the cities of Woodstock and Holly Springs already had homestead freezes in place. The Cherokee County School District opted out of the homestead freeze, which the law allowed local jurisdictions to do.

Tax assessors are charged with using the best-case scenario for each homesteaded property, according to the county. Changes caused by recent legislation coupled with the creation of the Statewide Floating Homestead exemption have caused complications in correctly calculating the new exemption in combination with all existing local and statewide exemptions, including the Conservation Use Valuation Assessment program for larger acreage farm tracts.

“The Cherokee County Tax Assessors are committed to assuring these calculations are absolutely correct before mailing the notices,” Swindell said.

One of the bills passed in the 2025 General Assembly requires different language on Notices of Assessment — the Georgia Department of Revenue has provided three forms, meaning assessment notices for some properties may look different depending on circumstances.

We invite you to visit Epcon communities during our Summer Tour of Homes, June 19-22. Explore luxury ranch homes thoughtfully designed for single-level living.

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Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame inducts ’25 class

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

WOODSTOCK — The Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame inducted its 22nd class on May 2 at Woodstock City Church, adding three more accomplished athletes, coaches and administrators to its ranks.

This year’s class included the trio of Adam Moorhead, Dan Carmichael and Gary Goff, all of whom had tremendous impacts on the Cherokee County sports landscape. The Hall of Fame also recognized the top senior male and female athletes from each high school, along with championship teams from the past.

Led by 2008 inductee and CCSHOF chairman Scott Webb, along with MC Josh Bagby, the county’s athletic royalty gathered to increase the Hall of Fame to 118 members.

“I am honored to be the current chairman of board for the Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame, and we are so thankful for all you being here tonight,” Webb said as he addressed the patrons. “We want this to be a truly special event. One of the reasons this is my favorite night of the year is because we get to be in the same room with legends of Cherokee County.”

The night began with Bagby bringing attention to the 15 Hall of Famers in attendance, including Supervisor of Student Activities & Athletics Tonya Sebring. Past inductee Wade Buchanan, who passed away since last year’s event, was also honored.

Next, it was the county’s standout senior athletes who were called by name to receive their awards. The girls went first as Alex White-

cliffe (Cherokee), Kate English (Creekview), Izzy Eskew (Etowah), Kayla Cleaveland (River Ridge), Milanni Abdus-Salaam (Sequoyah) and Adeline Morrison (Woodstock) had their moments.

The boys standouts consisted of Tanner Savasir (Cherokee), Jackson Stanley (Creekview), Aiden Weaver (Etowah), Ethan Spector (River Ridge), Ean Marria (Sequoyah) and Fuller Morrish (Woodstock).

Cherokee County’s Hall of Fame committee dug deep for this year’s team honorees, naming five championship units from Canton High School, which is now known as Cherokee High School after the switch in 1956.

Those title-winning teams were boys Basketball (1936, 1951), boys golf (1941) and baseball (1948).

As the new Hall of Fame class was announced, Moorhead was first up for this year’s inductees. Moorhead lettered in both football and track at Cherokee High School before competing in both sports collegiately at Tulane.

His first carry on the football field went for a 74-yard touchdown against Mississippi State, and he ran for 120 yards in a single game against LSU. After college, he worked for one of the first NFL combines.

Moorhead was unable to attend the banquet, though his brother sent an introduction, which Bagby read.

Goff was next — an accomplished high school and college football coach, who’s seen his profile grow in recent years. After playing football for Cherokee, the University of Mary North Dakota and Valdosta State, he became an assistant with the Warriors, and then Woodstock.

Goff bounced around as an assistant before landing his first head

coaching job with Tiffin University. In 2019, he took over at Valdosta, where he became a two-time Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year. He is currently the lead man at McNeese State.

“A special thanks to the Hall of Fame board and its members — this is something I will cherish for the rest of my life,” Goff said. “... Coaches have such an impact on our young adults’ lives, and that’s what led me into coaching. I’m a firm believer of God puts you where you’re supposed to be, and I needed to be put in Cherokee County.”

The third and final inductee of the night night was Carmichael, who played an integral role in youth athletics within the county. He was a founder and president of the Cherokee Reds travel baseball program, as well as Woodstock High School Touchdown Club president.

Carmichael is also a member of the Cherokee County Gridiron Club Hall of Fame, along with a recipient of the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency Volunteer of the Year award. He coached in both the Woodstock and Sprayberry junior football programs, and the list of his accomplishments in the community could continue almost indefinitely.

“There are so many great people in this room, just like every year when we have this banquet,” Carmichael said. “It’s great people, educators, administrators, athletic directors, coaches, and they all have a huge impact on all lives… I’m proud to say I live in Cherokee County. As I stand here before you tonight, I am humbled, honored and extremely grateful to be inducted into the Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame.”

griffin Callaghan

Dan Carmichael, a 2025 CCSHOF inductee.

griffin Callaghan

Gary Goff, a 2025 CCSHOF inductee.

griffin Callaghan

River Ridge’s Kayla Cleaveland accepts her award.

griffin Callaghan

Etowah’s Aiden Weaver accepts his award.

Cleaveland takes lead for River Ridge title march

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

As a Class AAAAA state champion, Region 6AAAAA Player of the Year and now Cherokee County Girls Basketball Player of the Year, River Ridge senior Kayla Cleaveland has seen a wave of recognition come her way.

The Georgia Southern signee helped the Knights win the program’s second state title, along with a fifth straight region championship and 31-1 overall record.

“It was just really exciting, knowing I had a team behind me that was supporting me and supporting my goals,” Cleaveland said, “and to have a coaching staff that always supported me, it was all just super exciting. It’s relieving knowing all my hard work with this team led to a state championship and these accolades.”

With this year’s state championship win over Langston Hughes, Cleaveland and River Ridge got redemption from the 2023-24 season, when it fell in the semifinals.

In this year’s state championship game, the Knights battled back from an uncharacteristic first half to go on a 19-2 over the final 8 minutes and complete a 16-point comeback. Cleaveland finished the game with eight points, 11 rebounds and three assists.

“It was a mindset,” Cleaveland said. “It was realizing that we may be the better team on the floor, but it comes down to the grit, heart and love for the sport. We really realized that last year. You have to be ready no matter who you play.”

With a nearly unblemished record, River Ridge’s only loss this season came to Tennessee power Bradley Central — the nation’s No. 6-ranked team — in a game in which River Ridge struggled to shoot the ball.

One month later, the Knights traveled to Florida and beat powerhouse programs American Heritage, Dr. Phillips and St. Thomas Aquinas, all by double digits. According to Cleaveland, it was a turning point.

“We have traveled a lot throughout my high school career, and down in Florida, we haven’t normally had that much success,” Cleaveland said. “This year, we had a ton of success, and it was probably the best we have played together all four years (of my career). It really got everyone excited for what was to come.”

River Ridge went on to win 19 consecutive games, culminating with the Class AAAAA state championship. Cleaveland finished the season averaging 14.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 steals per game.

Following a fruitful high school career,

Cleaveland said she is ready to make the jump to college, where she has some high hopes for her time in Statesboro.

“I would love to make the NCAA Tour-

nament my freshman year,” Cleaveland said. “I think that would be huge for the program, for the team and for myself. That’s a huge goal.”

2024-25 ALL-CHEROKEE COUNTY GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS

Staff reports

♦ Teams voted on by Cherokee County coaches Player of the Year — Kayla Cleaveland, River Ridge — 14.8 pts, 7.6 reb, 2.3 ast

Coach of the Year — Jason Taylor, River Ridge 31-1 overall 14-0 Region 6AAAAA

Class AAAAA State Champions First Team

G Sophia Pearl, River Ridge — 11.7 pts, 6.5 ast, 5.2 reb

G Madison Moody, Cherokee — 19 pts, 3 reb, 2 stl

G Makayla Roberson, River Ridge — 12.2 pts, 4.8 reb, 3.8 ast

G Kailyn Hamby, Creekview — 13.5 pts, 5 reb, 4 ast

F Finley Parker, River Ridge — 14.6 pts, 7 reb, 1.6 ast

Second Team

G Savannah Aparicio, Etowah

G Kyla Cantey, River Ridge

G Carly Bass, Sequoyah

G/F Alex Whitecliffe, Cherokee

F Milanni Abdus-Salaam, Sequoyah

Honorable Mention

Cherokee — Ansley Dunn, Lyla Griffith, Sage Smiley

Creekview — Amilya Taft, Ashlynn Bleisath, Finley Howard, Callie Cavender

Etowah — Taylor Wills, Taylor Davis, Caitlyn Garcia

River Ridge — Joy Tchamabe

Woodstock — Morghan Slater, Lily Conkell, Bri Rogers, Emily Jacobs

Photo: Anthony Stalcup Cherokee’s Madison Moody drives with the ball in the Class AAAAAA state semifinal game against Grayson.

Special — Cecil Copeland

River Ridge’s Kayla Cleaveland takes a shot against Milton during the Class 5A semifinal.

Jack leads historic season for Creekview program

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Luke Jack etched his name in Creekview basketball lore this season, breaking both the single-game and career scoring records, while making the Grizzlies a nightmare in the Region 6AAAAA tournament.

Jack, a 6-foot-6 guard, broke his own scoring record in this year’s region tournament, pouring in 53 points, en route to a 77-68 win over River Ridge. It came one month after he scored 44 in a regularseason win over Blessed Trinity.

The career mark came Dec. 13, when Jack eclipsed former Creekview standout KJ Jenkins’ career record with his 1,284th point against Riverwood. The milestonefilled season made Jack the clear-cut as

the 2024-25 Cherokee County Boys Basketball Player of the Year.

Jack ended the season with 1,720 career points.

“It feels great,” Jack said after overtaking Jenkins’ record “I just worked so hard, and I am glad to see it has paid off here for my school. That was awesome. I didn’t know that was coming. To see that he noticed, it was really cool. I watched him growing up, so that was cool.”

Jenkins — a former Division I player now playing professionally in Austria — took notice of Jack’s accomplishment, and in a video that played before Creekview’s Dec. 17 game against archrival Sequoyah, he called Jack’s feat “a much deserved

See JACK, 24

2024-25 ALL-CHEROKEE COUNTY BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM

Staff reports

♦ Teams voted on by Cherokee County coaches

Player of the Year — Luke

Jack, Creekview

26 pts, 4 ast, 7 reb, 2 stl Single-game and career scor-

ing record holder

Most Valuable Player —

Aiden Weaver, Etowah

11 pts, 6.5 reb, 2.3 ast, 2 blk Coach of the Year — Jason Dasinger, Etowah

23-7 overall, 9-3 Region 5AAAAAA

Two playoff wins

First Team

Brendan Tousignaut, Sequoyah

Jahmar Maurice, Woodstock

Alex Young, Etowah

Cade Lomas, Sequoyah

Braylon Luster, Cherokee

Second Team

Cooper Heller, Etowah

Sean Hamilton, Cherokee

Will Myles, Etowah

Gavin Farmer, River Ridge

Colton Etter, Etowah

Honorable Mention

Hayden Darko, Cherokee

Zeb Runion, River Ridge

Matlock Gemberling, Sequoyah

Noah Givens, Sequoyah

JJ Feuerstein, Woodstock

Joseph Tully, Woodstock

Joshua Schulze, Woodstock

Camden Smith, Woodstock

Special — greg Spell

Creekview’s Luke Jack (0) shoots a jumper in a game against Woodstock.

SPORTS

Weaver serves as Swiss army knife in Etowah success

Jack improved each year with the Grizzlies, going from 12 points per game as a sophomore to 18 as a junior.

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accomplishment for a talented player.”

As an all-county honoree in three consecutive seasons,

Jack crossed the 1,000-point mark late last season, and he kept up the pace in 2024-25, averaging 26 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals per game

He was selected to this year’s Georgia Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Game and made an early

By Griffin Callaghan gcallaghan@ledgernews.com

Etowah senior Aiden Weaver may not have the flashiest stat line, but he became the foundation of a winning culture and a vital piece of the Eagles’ puzzle during his high school basketball career.

Weaver, an Alabama-Hunstville signee, spearheaded multiple 20-win seasons and playoff runs, culminating in a Class AAAAAA quarterfinal appearance in 2024-25.

“This kid, for three years, has been a starter on a team that went to the final four, one that won 20 games last season, and then a team that went to the elite eight,” Etowah coach Jason Dasinger said. “I don’t know if there’s been a more successful starter in the history of Cherokee County.”

In three years as a full-time starter, the Cherokee County Boys Basketball Most Valuable Player led the Eagles to a combined 65-24 record and a 31-5 mark in region play. Etowah won at least 20 games all three seasons, including a region championship in 2023 and two years of 11-1 region tallies.

Weaver was a Swiss army knife in 2024-25, averaging 11 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2 blocks. He did everything for the Eagles, and despite possessing a plethora of talent and athleticism, was the most unselfish player on the floor.

“When you talk about MVP, he averaged 11 points for three straight years, and he just does everything that requires you to win,” Dasinger said. “He is a winner, and he doesn’t care about the stats. He never once asked for a play to be called for him, he never once demanded the ball and he never once complained about scoring.”

Throughout his Etowah career, Weaver was always the first one after loose balls, and he consistently drew the opposing team’s toughest defensive assignment.

Weaver became the face of the Eagles’ program, and he set the example for the future of Etowah basketball.

“I’ve got a highlight tape of hustle plays just for that kid,” Dasinger said. “When you have the athletic ability he has and you do all the little things, you really set an example. He isn’t just the most valuable player for our team — he is the most valuable player for our program. I have ninth-graders in the gym right now that want to be like Aiden Weaver.”

and lasting impression on Creekview coach Tyler Whitlock, who took the reins two seasons ago.

“Luke is a terrific young man who has worked very hard to become a great player, and more importantly, a great person,” Whitlock said earlier this season.

“(Jack’s career record) is just a small reflection of that hard work.”

Special — Mark he

Etowah’s Aiden Weaver tries to get past a pair of Eagles Landing defenders for a layup this past season during the Lemon Street Classic at Marietta.

GDOT begins work on Bells Ferry Rd. widening

Staff reports

Construction is officially underway on the Bells Ferry Road widening project, the Georgia Department of Transportation announced.

GDOT projects the widening to be completed in October 2028.

GDOT awarded Astra Group LLC the $37.2 million contract in January following years of designing, planning and securing funding to widen Bells Ferry Road from two to four lanes.

“It’s a been a long road to getting to this point,” said GDOT District Engineer Grant Waldrop. “We’re moving dirt now, and that means we’re on the way to seeing Bells Ferry expanded to fit the growing needs of the area.”

Cherokee County used Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds to acquire the right of way necessary to expedite the project’s construction. Cherokee County spent $18.3 million on right-of-way acquisition and required easements; acquisition totaled 135 parcels.

“The Bells Ferry widening is a much needed and long-awaited transportation improvement project,” said Cherokee County Manager Geoff Morton. “We appreciate GDOT’s action in ensuring this project moves forward to relieve conges-

tion in the area and correct problematic alignment in particular roadway segments.”

The project will widen Bells Ferry Road beginning at Southfork Way and ending near Victoria Road, about 2.4 miles in total. Some intersections along the route will be updated to reduced conflict U-turns. RCUTs prevent traffic on side roads from turning left or crossing a main road at the intersection. Motorists instead will turn right and then a U-turn will be permitted at the next break in the median. The goal of the RCUT is to eliminate dangerous crossings that might result in crashes.

Along with the widening of Bells Ferry Road to four lanes, the project will also add a multi-use sidewalk and improve visibility on curves leading into intersections with traffic signals, GDOT reports.

“Our main goals with this project are to reduce the congestion, prepare for future growth along Bells Ferry Road and continue to make our roads as safe as possible,” Waldrop said. “We ask that the public be patient and drive slowly in work zones while our crews work.”

Motorists are advised to expect delays, exercise caution and reduce speed while traveling through work zones.

For real-time information on work status and traffic conditions, call 511, visit 511ga.org or download the Georgia 511 app.

georgia department of Transportation

Construction is officially underway on the Bells Ferry Road widening project, with a projected completion in October 2028.

HEALTH

Move more, feel better: Simple steps for active living

Preventive health has always been one of my passions, for both men and women. At our practice, we do our best to practice what we preach, which means integrating healthy habits into our lives, not just recommending them to patients. While discussing nutrition and healthy eating, I always emphasize that eating well is only part of the equation. Intentional, consistent movement is the piece that people often overlook or push aside. But it’s vital, not only for our physical health but also for our mental and emotional well-being.

WHY MOVEMENT MATTERS

Being active isn’t about running marathons or spending hours at the gym. It’s about daily, sustainable choices that preserve our quality of life. Whether you’re preparing for surgery, recovering from one or simply trying to feel your best, movement can dramatically improve outcomes.

Staying active helps to:

♦ Be healthier for any surgery you might need

♦ Improve outcomes for chronic conditions

♦ Boost mood and energy

♦ Enhance mental clarity and sleep

quality

♦ Support long-term weight management

On the other hand, sedentary habits increase surgical risks, worsen chronic conditions and affect our mental state. We’ve all had those days when we haven’t moved enough, and we feel sluggish and low-energy as a result. That’s no coincidence.

START SMALL AND KEEP IT SIMPLE

The good news? Small, manageable steps really do matter. I tell my patients — and my own kids — that it has to be simple and doable. You don’t need to commit to a huge change overnight.

♦ Take one more step today than you did yesterday

♦ Walk after dinner

♦ Do light stretching or chair exercises while watching TV

♦ Use a standing desk, exercise ball or under-desk bike at work

And remember: What you did yesterday doesn’t count for today. Movement, like hydration, needs to be consistent — every day.

THE WINS THAT DON’T SHOW ON THE SCALE

Weight isn’t always the best measure of progress. Many benefits of movement are “non-scale victories,” such as:

♦ Improved bone and joint health

♦ Lower blood pressure

♦ Better gut function and digestion

♦ Increased energy and strength

♦ Enhanced self-esteem and mental well-being

♦ Stronger response to medications

♦ Lower risk of surgical complications

Post-op, one of the first things we recommend at our practice — no matter the procedure, as some procedures may have activity restrictions — is to get up and walk. It prevents complications like blood clots and constipation and gets your body functioning more smoothly. Even a short walk after dinner can boost energy, aid digestion and help you sleep better.

BREAKING THROUGH PLATEAUS

If you’ve hit a plateau or feel stuck, try changing things up.

♦ Add light resistance or strength training

♦ Stretch more or try low-impact exercises

♦ Change your activity (e.g., alternate walking with biking or using an elliptical)

♦ Increase your workout time gradually

♦ Focus on building muscle to boost metabolism

Movement doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to be consistent.

REAL BARRIERS, REAL SOLUTIONS

Of course, real barriers do exist — pain, limited mobility, recent surgeries or chronic conditions. But there are solutions. They might include:

♦ Aqua therapy or pool-based rehab

♦ Physical therapy or vestibular therapy

♦ Using support wear or working with pain management specialists

♦ Consulting with a dietitian to reduce inflammation or aid weight loss

♦ Orthopedic support for joint health

Our team works closely with dietitians, orthopedists and weight-loss specialists to support patients in creating sustainable changes. And remember, you don’t need fancy equipment or expensive memberships. Here are some low- or no-cost options:

♦ Local parks and community centers

♦ Free workout videos on YouTube

♦ Chair or bodyweight exercises at home

♦ Indoor walking at malls or big-box stores

♦ Using canned food or resistance bands for light strength training

BUILD A ROUTINE THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Ultimately, it’s about building a routine that fits into your life. Start small. Start today. And don’t forget: You’re not in this alone. There are resources, people and support systems ready to help you move toward a healthier, more active version of yourself — one simple step at a time.

Dr. Sujata Gill is an established, boardcertified, and fellowship-trained surgeon with Bariatric Innovations and General Surgery. She is affiliated with Northside Hospital Cherokee.

Dr. Sujata Gill

Woodstock High graduate earns PEO STAR Scholarship

Staff reports

The PEO Woodstock Chapter BI recently awarded a $2,500 scholarship to a Woodstock High School graduate who is pursuing a future career in healthcare.

Leia Lankford was presented the prestigious PEO STAR Scholarship by chapter member Linda Lopos, who chairs the STAR Scholarship committee.

The PEO STAR Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship based

on excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics and potential for success. Ranked at the top of her class, Lankford was a member of the school’s Math Team and cofounder of MedScholars, a club that fosters and encourages a community of future healthcare workers within her school. She was one of 54 students, out of 750 applicants, selected by the CDC to attend the Museum Disease

Camp, and was also selected as a youth ambassador for 21st Century Leaders.

Lankford has been accepted and will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology where she plans to study biomedical engineering beginning this fall. After graduating from Georgia Tech, she plans to attend medical school to pursue a career in orthopedic surgery. This summer, she will be completing an internship with the Atlanta Braves and completing a certified nursing assistant course in Norcross.

New doctor joins Medical Associates of North Georgia

Staff reports

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Kimbrough has joined Medical Associates of North Georgia in Canton, Northside Hospital Healthcare System announced. She is board certified in internal medicine and specializes in osteopathic manipulative treatment. She sees patients at Medical Associates of North Georgia’s Canton office, 320 Hospital Road in Canton. For more information, visit medassoc.com.

The Circuit in Woodstock is seeking a new vendor

Staff reports

The Circuit at the Chattahoochee Technical College Woodstock campus is seeking a new vendor after Circle of Friends’ Circuit Café closed.

The founders of Circle of Friends, Diane and Glenn Keen, closed the Woodstock location May 15 to move all operations to their Hickory Flat location, Flourish Café.

Circle of Friends opened the Circuit Café in February 2021.

Cherokee Office of Economic Development President Heath Tippens, who manages The Circuit in partnership with Chattahoochee Technical College and the Woodstock Office of Economic Development, said he is proud of the journey Circle of Friends has taken.

“They represent what’s possible when local entrepreneurs are given the right environment to grow — and their success story is a win for the entire community,” he said.

With Circle of Friends now fully transitioned to Flourish Café, the café space inside The Circuit is available for a new small business to launch a coffee shop, café, or creative retail concept.

“We’re inviting coffee vendors with a

The Circuit at Chattahoochee Technical College’s Woodstock campus is seeking a new vendor.

heart for community to consider joining us at The Circuit,” Tippens said. “It’s a great place to start small and grow strong — just like Circle of Friends did.”

The Circuit is a coworking, collaboration and innovation space for students, entrepreneurs and the local community in downtown Woodstock. The café is located inside the Collaboration Room, a free space that is open to the public.

The application is available online on The Circuit Woodstock’s Facebook page, https:// www.facebook.com/circuitwoodstock.

The Circuit is located at 1 Innovation Way in downtown Woodstock. For more information, visit circuitwoodstock.com.

Glenn Circle

COVER STORY

LAKE

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access to the lake for boaters. Three boat ramps and a boat dock make this a popular place to launch your watercraft and enjoy a day on the water.

Fields Landing Park, situated on the north side of Lake Allatoona, affords spectacular views of the lake as well as great recreation opportunities. The park includes a boat ramp, fishing dock, playground and nine picnic areas available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and two pavilions available for rent through CRP.

“Our lake parks have been a staple to the Cherokee County community for decades now. Fields Landing is one of our oldest parks opened in the early 1970’s that provides boat ramps, fishing docks, pavilions, and a playground. Its view of Allatoona Lake at sunset is arguable one of the prettiest views around,” Worley said. “We are thankful for all that it provides. Cherokee Mills boat ramps has hosted thousands of fishing tournaments over the years.”

There is a daily fee to use the two parks and season passes are available. For more information visit playcherokee.org.

Sweetwater Campground on the north end of the lake in Cherokee County provides visitors with a variety of water activities. With more than 150 spacious reservable campsites, conveniently located near the dock and swimming beach, the beautiful campground is heavily booked throughout the season.

Lake front sites are available, giving

visitors sweeping views of the vast lake. Fire rings, picnic areas, drinking water, flush toilets and showers are provided, creating a comfortable camping experience for visitors.

Victoria Campground sits on the banks of Lake Allatoona off Bells Ferry Road, providing visitors with a variety of water activities. Victoria offers a swimming beach, a fishing jetty, and two boat launches.

The campgrounds feature 75 campsites, two shower houses, two restrooms, a swimming beach, a playground, and on-site park attendants. There are 71 single sites with electrical hookups water, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table, and two sites with electrical hookups, water, sewer hookups, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table.

Created by damming the Etowah River in 1949 for flood control, hydroelectric power generation, water supply, and recreation purposes under U.S Army Corps Engineers management, Lake Allatoona was officially opened for public use on December 1, 1950.

Lake Allatoona is rich in history and much of the territory now covered by its waters once belonged to local farmers and indigenous peoples such as Cherokee Native Americans who were forcibly removed following treaties like New Echota in 1835.

For those who would like to help keep the lake clean, the next Great Lake Allatoona Clean Up planned by the Lake Allatoona Association is Sept. 27. Registration is open. To learn more or to register visit lakealltoonaassoc.com.

Jack Tuszynski

Larry Gallogly prepares an omelet with his girlfriend Melania Stepanenko at Sweetwater Campground.

Jack Tuszynski

Blake Ammons and Kayla Carter paddle on kayaks, while Shane Hobby and his daughter Elyssa use paddleboards on Lake Allatoona.

History Cherokee celebrates Derby Day

Community members gathered May 3 at the Mill on Etowah in Canton to cheer on the contestants in the annual Kentucky Derby — and to support History Cherokee.

History Cherokee reported over 250 guests attended its annual Derby Day fundraiser, featuring a hat contest, a pony pull, bourbon tastings, mint juleps, a silent auction and more.

The 22nd annual event was History Cherokee’s “most successful Derby ever,” Executive Director Stefanie Joyner said.

This year the organization is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

For more about History Cherokee, visit https://historycherokee.org.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

Winners of the History Cherokee Derby Day hat contest show off their trophies.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

Whitney Spear and Lori Flink at History Cherokee’s Derby Day.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

History Cherokee held its 22nd annual Kentucky Derby party May 3 at the Mill on Etowah in Canton.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

Sally Sims, Genella Dewrell and Lisa-Marie Haygood at History Cherokee’s Derby Day.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

Special/Anthony Stalcup

Rebecca Johnston, president of History Cherokee’s board of directors, speaks at the Derby Day event in Canton.

Special/Anthony Stalcup

CHEROKEE SCENE

Relay for Life raises money to ‘Drive Out Cancer’

Hundreds of people gathered April 26 for a community event supporting the fight against cancer at the Relay for Life of Cherokee County.

The event, held at Etowah River Park in Canton, saw over 550 registered participants and 54 teams, organizers reported. Proceeds raised money for the American Cancer Society.

The event raised over $114,000.

This year marked the Relay for Life’s 40th’s anniversary.

The 2026 Relay for Life of Cherokee County is planned for the same weekend next year.

Sarah Singh

Cancer survivors participate in the Relay for Life of Cherokee County April 26.

Jana rice

Friends of the Gray family walk with Team Grumpy in memory of David Gray.

Sarah Singh Survivors and caregivers walked a lap together at the Relay for Life of Cherokee County at Etowah River Park in Canton.

Jana rice

Melissa Gray with Woodstock Firefighter Dave Sargenski, a close friend of the late David Gray.

Jana rice

Cherokee County Fire Explorers walk with Team Grumpy in memory of Woodstock Firefighter David Gray.

Sarah Singh

Kids try to hit a target to activate a dunk tank at the Relay for Life of Cherokee County.

Sarah Singh

Where To Find

THE CHEROKEE LEDGER MONTHLY

CANTON

h Texaco, 180 Butterworth Rd, Canton 30114

h Shell, 3550 Marietta Hwy, Canton 30114

h Chevron, 4129 Marietta Hwy, Canton, 30114

h Exxon, 2619 Holly Springs Pkwy, Canton, 30114

h Union 76, 900 Waleska Rd, Canton, 30114

h Marathon,14 Mill St, Canton, 30114

h Chevron, 111 Mountain Vista Blvd, Canton, 30114

h Johnny’s New York Style Pizza, 559 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, 30114

h Cotton Mill Exchange, 225 Reformation Pkwy, Ste 100, Canton, 30114

h Bedoe’s Bar & Grille, 6115 Hickory Flat Hwy, Ste 101, Canton, 30115

h Kroger, 4045 Marietta Hwy, Canton, 30114

h Kroger, 6766 Hickory Flat Hwy, Canton, 30115

h Publix, 15 Laurel Canyon Village, Canton, 30114

h Publix, 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, 30114

h Publix, 6175 Hickory Flat Hwy, Canton, 30115

h YMCA, 151 Waleska St, Canton, 30114

h Bojangles, 1665 Ball Ground Hwy, Canton, 30114

h Georgian Hills Restaurant, 69 Waleska St, Canton, 30114

h Cherokee Courthouse, 90 North Street, Canton 30114

h Cherokee Tribune, 521 E Main St, Canton, 30114

h RT Jones Library, 116 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton, 30114

h Northside Hospital Women’s Center, 450 Northside Cherokee Blvd, Canton, 30114

h Northside Hospital Main Entrance, 450 Northside Cherokee Blvd, Canton, 30114

h Post Office, 2400 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, 30114

WOODSTOCK

h JD’s Bar-B-Que, 6426 Bells Ferry Rd, Woodstock, 30189

h Family Tradition Restaurant, 4379 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189

h Family Tradition Restaurant, 7830 Hickory Flatt Hwy, Woodstock, 30188

h Circle K, 12155 Hwy 92, Woodstock, 30188

Pick up your free copy of The Cherokee Ledger Monthly at these convenient locations:

h Family Tradition Restaurant, 4379 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189

h Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189

h Kroger, 12050 Hwy 92, Woodstock, 30188

h Citgo, 6790 Bells Ferry Rd, Woodstock, 30189

h Kia, 630 Olde Rope Mill Park Rd, Woodstock, 30188

h Texaco, 6790 Bells Ferry, Woodstock, 30189

h Texaco, 6511 Bells Ferry, Woodstock, 30189

h Village Burger, 9550 Main St, Woodstock, 30188

h Bizarre Coffee, 440 Chambers St, Woodstock, 30188

h Woodstock Library, 7735 Main Street, Woodstock, 30188

h Woodstock Visitors Center, 8588 Main St, Woodstock, 30188

HOLLY SPRINGS

h Hop In, 2204 Holly Springs Pkwy, Holly Springs, 30115

h Kroger, 5341 Old Hwy 5, Holly Springs, 30188

ACWORTH

h Food Depot, 5530 Bells Ferry Rd, Acworth, 30102

h Mapco, 1530 Kellogg Creek Rd, Acworth, 30102

GARDENING

GARDENING

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:Contributions/Famartin

Mimosa — the tree, not the drink

Some folks, when you mention Mimosas in the summer, think about the drink. As gardeners we think about the tree, or maybe both, depending on your beverage preferences. The actual mimosa cocktail drink was supposedly named after the Australian, yellow-flowered mimosa plant, Acacia dealbata.

Now in June and into July as you drive around Cherokee County you see trees that look like pink powder puffs. Some of these trees are large single specimens that can grow to 50 feet in height. What you see are Mimosa trees, Albizia julibrissin Durazz., a different species than the Australian Acacia dealbata. Originally from China, the Mimosa, a.k.a. Silk tree and Silky acacia, was introduced to the United States in 1745. It is believed that it was introduced by Andre Michaux, a French botanist. The Mimosa and related species are found all over Asia and the Middle East. In the U.S., the tree has been cultivated since

the 18th century, primarily for use as an ornamental tree. Mimosa is cold hardy to USDA hardiness zone 6 and is not found in elevations above 3,000 feet. It is found throughout the Southeastern states.

Mimosa is a popular ornamental because of its fragrant and showy pink pom-pom like flowers and its unique double-compound leafy structure. This leaf structure gives the tree a fern-like appearance. The delicate clusters of silky pink threads of the flowers attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. The tree often has multiple stems and a broad, spreading canopy. Mimosa do not grow in heavy shade locations, so it will not be found in forested areas, but it excels in taking over open, disturbed sites, fields, roadways and along stream banks where light levels are higher. Mimosa is a legume with its seeds produced in the fall and contained in long tan seedpods. Being a member of the legume family, Mimosas

can fix its own nitrogen in the soil. Mimosa often spreads by seeds from nearby ornamental plantings, or by fill dirt containing mimosa seeds. It is a growing problem in aquatic environments, where it gets started on the disturbed stream banks, and its seeds are carried by the running water.

Although an attractive tree,Mimosa is considered an invasive species in Georgia. The Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council, the Georgia Forestry Commission and the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service all list the tree as an invasive species. It is not at as bad as the Bradford or Callery Pear as an invasive tree, but it does have its issues.

Mimosa trees are hard to remove from their area once they have become established. One of the reasons for its survivability is that its seeds can survive more than five years in the soil. One research study found that Mimosa produces many seed pods in one season, and up to 90 percent of the seeds can be viable after five years of dormancy. In addition, Mimosa seeds

contain a neurotoxin which can be toxic to dogs and livestock if ingested. Even if you cut the tree down, the Mimosa will re-sprout vigorously from any remaining root material. It can also sprout from its roots far from the original tree. The tree is host to webworm caterpillars. Mimosa is very susceptible to a soil-born fungus that clogs the vascular system (Fusarium oxysporum var. perniciosum). As a result of the wilt disease many Mimosa trees do not live longer than 20 to 30 years in our area.

Although Mimosa trees are very attractive, because of their invasiveness they should not be planted in the landscape. Happy Gardening!!

K. Marc Teffeau 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.

WITH THE MASTERS|MARC TEFFEAU

Teffeau

Rosea Mimosa blossoms

CROSSWORD ANSWER

CROSSWORD

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

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