Pondering PEACE
Irecently spent a warm and breezy late spring afternoon in my backyard, sitting beside my husband and our dog. As the sun warmed my face, I closed my eyes and angled my head toward the sky to take a quiet, deep breath and soak it in. The birds were chirping, and the wind chimes someone gave to my family after my father passed away in 2015 were softly clinking together to provide a tranquil soundtrack.
While hearing those chimes, I couldn’t help but think of my daddy, especially since Father’s Day is coming up on June 15. I thought about how he spent the last month of his life in the hospital in a lot of pain before asking to stop all treatment, so he could just go home, see his dog, and be made as comfortable as possible until it was his time to leave this Earth. Almost 10 years later, memories of that time are still very vivid.
But then my thoughts drifted back to the present. I took mental stock of how, at that very moment, I felt healthy and strong; the weather was heavenly; my “grown-and-flown” children were successfully “adulting” and pursuing their dreams; and I was sitting next to my husband, who brings me so much peace. An overwhelming sense of gratitude washed over me for all these blessings. Since I know every day can’t be perfect, I wanted to bottle that feeling and remember all the choices I’d made and actions I’d taken that led me to that place of serenity, so I could pull it out during the hard times.
“It’s so hard to forget pain, but it’s even harder to remember sweetness. We have no scar to show for happiness. We learn so little from peace.” – Chuck Palahniuk
With the kids out of school and the first official day of summer on June 20, I hope you have lots of laid-back days on the horizon to take stock of all your blessings and reflect on the things that make those moments possible. And if you need a quick, lighthearted read while relaxing, check out Canton Family Life’s 2025 winning short story on pages 20-21.
Have a splendid summer!
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Julie Senger
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ART
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
Tiffany Corn
Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jack Tuszynski
PhotoJack.Net@Gmail.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
David Wright
David@FamilyLifePublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Charlice Byrd, Bill Grant, Kevin Huff, James Lang, Tim Morris, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Susan K. Treadaway, Linda M. Turner
Family Life Magazines 6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying feature story are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
© 2025 All rights reserved
Calendar
JUNE
6
Downtown Canton First Friday: The Troubadour Project — Bring the whole family for a fun night filled with live entertainment, extended hours for shopping, restaurants, a Kids Zone, and food and beverage vendors Please bring a chair 6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Velinda.Hardy@cantonga.gov; ExploreCantonGa.com; CantonGa.gov
7
7, 14, 28
Cherokee Master Gardeners Programs — The topics will be “Heavenly Hydrangeas,” “Planting Peanuts and Sunflowers,” and “Daylilies ” 10:00am-12:00pm (Hydrangeas 6/7) and 9:00-10:30am (Daylilies 6/28), Cherokee County Senior Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton and 9:00-10:30am (Peanuts/Sunflowers 6/14), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com
TRopical Oasis Night — Enjoy swimming, water slides, food, music, and glow sticks This Therapeutic Recreation (TR) event is intended for individuals with special needs and their families� The fee is $5 per person 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
ONGOING
Canton Farmers Market
Each Saturday through 8/30, stop by downtown Canton for fresh-from-the-farm goodness and great food vendors. 9:00am-12:30pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov; ExploreCantonGa.com; Facebook.com/ CantonGAFarmersMarket
Waleska Farmers Market — Each Thursday through 9/25, shop for fresh fruits, veggies, and more from local farmers and artisans. 9:00am-1:00pm, Waleska Farmers Market, 8891 Fincher Road, Waleska. 404-805-7468. Facebook.com/WaleskaFarmersMarket
13
7th Annual Golfing FORE! the Children Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, play golf for a great cause All funds raised support the League’s mission to meet some of the most basic needs for children in Cherokee County $130 per golfer or $500 per foursome 9:00am shotgun start, Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net
14 Science Saturday: Aquatic Science Learn about caring for our waterways This program is most appropriate for ages 6+ Fees are $8 for any guest participating in the hands-on activities and $5 per supervising adult 10:30am-12:00pm and 1:00-2:30pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
Screen on the Green — Each Wednesday through July 30, gather on the green for a FREE family movie on the outdoor big screen. Please visit the website for movie titles. 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com
Summer Family Movie Series — Each Thursday in June, enjoy family-friendly films on the big screen for $1 per person. 6/5 Inside Out 2, 6/12 The Wild Robot, 6/19 The Princess and the Frog, and 6/26 Transformers One 10:00am and 2:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov
14 Makers Market
Explore a curated indoor market featuring local makers, artists, and creatives� 10:00am-2:00pm, inside the Shoppes at The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-627-3593. EtowahMill.com
20 Retro Movie Series: The Parent Trap
Enjoy this 90s remake of the 1961 classic on the big screen for just $5 per person! 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov/ our-city/visit-us/canton-theatre
17 Canton City Limits — Enjoy this FREE open mic night of poets and songwriters� Artists may sign up to perform beginning 6/10 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov/ our-city/visit-us/canton-theatre
20 3rd Annual Sporting Clays Classic
Hosted by the Cherokee County Educational Foundation, shooting enthusiasts are invited to this friendly competition to help raise money for the Cherokee County School District 9:00am registration, 10:00am shooting begins, Garland Mountain Sporting Clays and Grill, 2618 Garland Mountain Trail, Waleska. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org
20 Stand Up For
Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon
Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10 All proceeds support local seniors� 11:30am1:00pm, Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
Sweat It Out Saturday — Each Saturday through 10/25, join local fitness instructors for a FREE workout. Please bring a mat. 9:00-10:00am, Ball Ground City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. 470-560-7949. DTBallGround.com
Lovin Local Pop-Up
Market — Each Saturday through 10/25, support your local makers, bakers, and creators at this FREE event. 10:00am-1:00pm, downtown Ball Ground, 275 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 470-560-7949. DTBallGround.com
20 Jazz and Wine
Under the Stars
Celebrate
Juneteenth with an unforgettable evening of live jazz, fine wine, and community under the stars
Enjoy performances by top bands� VIP tables are $125; general admission is FREE 7:00-10:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-744-0344. CherokeeCountyNAACPGa.org
[continued on page 8]
Mic Sessions @City Connection — Each Saturday through 8/30, enjoy live music from local artists at this FREE event. 12:00-2:00pm, Ball Ground City Connection Park, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 470-560-7949. DTBallGround.com
Women on Wheels Clinic and Ride — On the first Saturday of each month, join this welcoming community of women to learn, build confidence, and foster friendships through mountain biking. 10:00am-12:00pm, Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trails, 2261 Sixes Road, Canton. 770-846-7979. BearPawCoaching.com/ women-on-wheels
Scan for
Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
Calendar
continued from page 7
21 Carrollton Jazz Orchestra — Enjoy an evening of spectacular jazz music� Tickets are $20 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov
21
River Rock Concert Series: Sammy Kershaw — Enjoy a FREE concert by this Billboard charting country music artist The event features local food trucks, beverage vendors, and a children’s area� Please bring a chair� 6:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. CantonGa.gov
21 Paint-Off: Battle of the Brushes Artists race the clock to create stunning works in this live painting showdown, as viewers bid in a silent auction to take one of the works home� Attendees can also enjoy live music at this FREE event 6:30pm, Menagerie on Main, 351 West Main Street, Canton. 404-798-4279. MenagerieOnMain.com
26
World’s Largest Swim Lesson Join other swimmers at the Oasis along with kids and parents at aquatic facilities across the country and around the globe to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson ever conducted, to spread the word that swimming lessons save lives! The fee is $5 per person� 12:00-12:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
26
Empowering Voices: A Community Guide to Elections — Attendees will learn about the legal framework of elections, registration basics, and the elections process� 6:00pm, Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration, 193 Lamar Haley Parkway, Canton. 770-479-0407. CherokeeGaVotes.com
ONGOING
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women
Build — Third Tuesday of each month. 6:307:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/ women-build
Sacred Spaces: The Legacy of Black Churches in Cherokee County Through 8/30/25. 10:00am-5:00pm TuesdaySaturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
Community Yoga Classes — Mondays. 10:0011:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting — First Thursday of each month. 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-5705828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
27
Georgia Players Guild: Good Times / Bad Times
The Led Zeppelin Experience — This Led Zeppelin tribute band is composed of seasoned musicians dedicated to recreating the iconic sound and energy of the legendary band� Tickets are $55-$75� 8:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. GeorgiaPlayersGuild.com
28 Sensory Friendly Saturday
Designed for visitors with autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivities, museum patrons may explore the galleries with dimmed lighting and quieter audio, and they may also check out a sensory kit from the front desk (or feel free to bring one) 12:005:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
28 City of Ball Ground Fireworks
Celebrate Independence Day a little early with the Fly Betty band and an amazing fireworks show, which will be visible throughout the city 7:00pm Fly Betty, City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground and 9:30pm fireworks, Ball Ground Community Center, 250 Civic Drive, Ball Ground. 678-454-5075. CityOfBallGround.com
The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty)
Second and fourth Thursdays of each month. 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
BINGO for Charity! — Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. 7:30pm Wednesdays/Fridays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Family Moose Center, 278 Moose Loop Road, Canton. 770-479-8300.
Car-B-Que at the Flat — Second Sunday of each month. 10:00am-2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/CarBQueAtTheFlat
2Fresh Start Mornings — New business owners present challenges they face to receive crowd-sourced feedback� 9:00am networking, 9:15am program, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org/ freshstartmornings
3 4th of July in Canton — The American Legion Canton Post will host a patriotic parade in downtown Canton, and a spectacular fireworks show will begin at dusk 6:00pm (parade), downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton; 9:00pm (fireworks), Riverstone Parkway, Canton. CantonGa.gov
5 Guardians of the Jukebox — Rock out with this popular 80s tribute band 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-627-3593. EtowahMill.com
Trivia Night — Thursdays. 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
Adults With Aging Parents Seminar
Third Thursday of each month. 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (KappermanWilliams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events
How To Clean Your Bathroom A Complete Guide
By James Lang
[Home Life] Cleaning the bathroom can be a daunting task� Here are some pro tips to help you
ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES FOR
BATHROOM
CLEANING
• Cleaning Supplies – all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant spray, glass cleaner, and shower and toilet cleaners
• Cleaning Tools – a broom, microfiber cloth, mop, scrub brush or sponge, and a toilet brush
• Additional Items – rubber gloves, a squeegee, and trash bags
CLEANING STEPS
Clear all bathroom surfaces, such as the shower/tub and sink Take the rugs, towels, and trash can out of the room
Dust all surfaces
Use a shower/tub cleaner to gently scrub dirt from these surfaces and rinse� If you have a glass door, wipe it down with a glass cleaner
Spray all-purpose cleaner on the countertops, faucets, and sink basin and wipe them clean with a cloth� Wipe down the mirror with a glass cleaner�
Spray toilet cleaner on the rim and inside the bowl, scrub with a toilet brush, and flush Spray all-purpose cleaner on the rest of the toilet and wipe it clean�
Sweep and mop the bathroom floors�
Wipe down the removed surface items before neatly placing them back where they belong
Prevent bathroom stains by periodically lifting countertop items to wipe the surfaces underneath them�
Implement routine practices to keep the bathroom clean�
MONTHLY TASKS TO KEEP YOUR BATHROOM CLEAN
To maintain a pristine and hygienic space, consider adding the following tasks to your cleaning routine:
• Deep Clean Grout and Tile
Use a specialized grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub these surfaces
• Descale Showerheads and Faucets – Soak removable parts in a vinegar solution to dissolve limescale, then scrub gently with a brush to remove mineral deposits, which can affect water flow and appearance�
• Clean Shower Curtains and Liners – Wash fabric curtains according to care instructions to avoid mold, and replace plastic liners or wipe them down with a vinegar solution
• Clean Exhaust Fans and Vents – Remove fan/vent covers and vacuum or wash them L
James Lang owns Molly Maid of Cherokee County, Kennesaw, and Marietta, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-926-0036. MollyMaid.com
A Downtown Canton Master Plan That Benefits All
By Mayor Bill Grant
When I first moved to Canton in 1996, downtown was a virtual ghost town� Fast forward to today, and there are people everywhere From sitting outdoors at our amazing restaurants, hustling into the Canton Theatre to catch a performance, or strolling down the sidewalk to get ice cream with the entire family, downtown is truly a vibrant and magical place� I recently texted a former resident who moved more than 15 years ago and said, “You should see Canton today You would be amazed!”
Safer streets and pedestrian crossings
Wider sidewalks and outdoor dining options
Enhanced parking
Walkability
In creating the plan, transportation engineers identified issues that impact the overall safety in downtown Canton, such as speeding and blocked lanes from delivery trucks�
Over the past decade, many people have worked diligently to revitalize downtown Canton, and our efforts have paid off with dozens of restaurants, new shops, exciting events, adaptive reuse and preservation of historic landmarks, and so much more With this rebirth also comes challenges such as traffic, parking, business operations, and most importantly — pedestrian safety�
When it comes to these issues, Canton is not unique� Central business districts have traditionally prioritized cars and trucks over people� However, city planning trends are now to design cities that place people, not cars, at the center of activity These pedestrianfriendly downtowns aim to enhance quality of life, attract and retain businesses, and foster community Integrating green spaces, safe pedestrian paths, parking, and adequate traffic flow creates a more sustainable environment, benefiting the entire community�
Our Downtown Development Authority and City staff have recently held many public input sessions to create a new Downtown Master Plan The long-term vision is based on the priorities defined by our residents:
Obviously, we have some challenges in creating better harmony between pedestrians and businesses in the heart of our city, which will require change as downtown Canton continues to evolve Part of good governance is balancing many perspectives� Compromise and collaboration are essential, as we continue to create a downtown that values residents and consumers over cars and trucks
Wide sidewalks, pedestrian plazas, and trafficcalming measures are essential components of human-centered design By slowing down traffic and providing safe, enjoyable spaces for residents, downtown Canton can encourage more people to walk, dine, shop, and come together as a community
The Canton City Council, City staff, and I are exploring potential solutions for the existing delivery and transportation issues, but we must continue to adhere to sound strategies that improve the safety and well-being of our residents – first and foremost The investment in our Downtown Master Plan is the path forward
Bill Grant is the mayor of the City of Canton. 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov
COVER STORY
CULINARYCANTON’SCULTURE
Downtown Canton’s culinary innovation continues to flourish, recently energized by the debut of Three Roses Tavern, a gastropub and sister restaurant to the acclaimed new American eatery Local On North, offering enjoyable dining experiences and more delicious scratchmade options.
Tavern
By Jennifer Paire
Three Roses Tavern debuted in December in the wellknown R & M Hoagie Shoppe location, and it offers a sleek, warm energy; large-screen televisions — including a 160-inch giant screen; and 4,000 square feet of flexible space for dining and private events.
Fan favorites such as haddock fish and chips, gourmet French dip sandwiches (an homage to R & M’s storied offering), and jambalaya pasta, each dish is Americanized just enough for broad appeal while staying true to its roots.
“We designed the menu so anyone could find something, whether you want pizza, pasta, or ribs,” explained Salem Makhlouf, who owns the restaurants with his wife, Georgeanne “G.G.” Rose. The tavern’s inviting, flexible spaces also host private events, birthday parties, and graduation celebrations — a favorite among locals and visiting groups.
The couple opened Local On North in 2017, an upscale restaurant featuring live music by Atlanta Soul, a spacious 7,000 square feet of dining, and private events. Praised by locals for changing the culinary culture downtown, the space can be enjoyed by any size party.
“We can accommodate any size party with no reservation,” Rose said. “If you show up with people on the weekend, I can take you, and you will get great service.”
Georgeanne “G.G.” Rose and Salem Makhlouf, owners of Local On North and Three Roses Tavern
CANTON’S FIRST FRIDAYS
As summer approaches, excitement builds for First Fridays in Canton, when downtown comes alive with music, crowds, and the promise of new experiences. The next event is June 6 from 6:009:00pm. For Makhlouf and Rose, these events celebrate their hard work and the vibrant community they’re helping to build.
“We can’t wait for June’s First Friday,” Rose shared. “Being open adjacent to the square and with more people discovering what we have to offer, it’s going to be incredible.”
The popular event features live music, food, and extended hours for shopping. Rained out in May, that First Friday was rescheduled for June 27.
Square and Three Roses Tavern at 105 North Park Square. These experiences helped refine the opening of Canton’s tavern.
They also own and operate Magnolia Villa, a gourmet Tuscan kitchen and bar, located in Canton’s The Mill On Etowah.
Parents to five-year-old Jenna, Rose and Makhlouf have mastered rolling with the busy schedules required to lead their five top-notch restaurants. In addition to Local On North and Three Roses Tavern in Canton, the couple opened identical versions of the restaurants in 2023 on Marietta’s Square: L On North at 113 North Park
Rose and Makhlouf bring a mix of backgrounds that perfectly complement their business goals. Makhlouf, a self-proclaimed “restaurantlifer” with nearly 30 years in the industry, found his professional calling after immigrating from Tunisia and earning his MBA at Kennesaw State University. His experience as a server and now as a restaurant owner, as well as being an accountant, gives him sharp business acumen.
Rose, who entered the restaurant world in 2015 after years in property management, is the heart of their operations, focused on people, culture, and meticulous execution. Together, with the culinary expertise of Chef Richard T. Wilt — a chef known for hands-on leadership and from-scratch cooking — they’ve built a team that feels more like family than coworkers.
“We’re not just owners,” Rose shared. “When you come in, you know someone has eyes on every detail, from the food to the service. This is a labor of love.”
To make a reservation for either restaurant, please visit
COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY
These restaurateurs are passionate advocates for elevating Canton’s culinary culture. They relish the sense of camaraderie among Canton’s restaurateurs, many of whom work alongside their teams daily. That spirit of collaboration and authenticity helps Canton’s food scene stand out.
Except for Christmas, Rose and Makhlouf’s scratch kitchens are open on holidays to serve the community’s needs. And they are personally invested in their staff, encouraging individual growth in a supportive work environment.
“We’ve hardly had to hire anyone new in Canton in years because our people stay,” Rose said, proudly recounting team members moving on to pursuits including nursing school or law school after years in their restaurants.
Rose gravitated to Canton because it reminded her of her hometown, Suwanee, before it blossomed. In addition to her restaurant management prowess, she also has an eye for design, making sure to incorporate local elements to make the dining spaces welcoming.
She and Makhlouf continue to be excited about Canton’s ongoing transformation.
“When we opened Local On North, it was mostly us and a handful of other places. Now, the downtown is full of new restaurants, and we welcome it — the more variety, the stronger the community,” said Rose.
Protecting Older Adults From Scams, Abuse, and Neglect
By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway
Each year, our office participates in the Senior Extravaganza held at His Hands Church in Woodstock During the most recent event, many senior citizens shared their experiences with financial scams, particularly those involving fraudulent text messages� One woman asked if she could speak to me privately After we stepped aside, she told me that she had sent a photo of her driver’s license to an unknown individual after being contacted by a scammer She was too embarrassed to report it because she felt she should have known better� She was worried about what the scammer might do with her personal information Sadly, she is not alone
to provide necessary services to older adults in their care�
Typically, elder abuse is one (or all) of the following:
• Physical – Often includes sexual and emotional abuse as well
• Neglect – Failure to provide essential medical care, adequate nutrition, hygiene, or a safe living environment
• Financial Exploitation – Depriving access to financial resources using force, threat, or deceit
In 2017, the District Attorney’s Office established the Cherokee County Adult Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) to assess reports of suspected abuse, neglect, and scams involving older adults and vulnerable individuals� This team of law enforcement, prosecutors, and other agencies is committed to protecting vulnerable adults Over the past eight years, the number of reports reviewed by the MDT has increased 332%�
While many people believe they can easily spot these scams, criminals are becoming increasingly savvy in their approach� For example, one recent text scam directed recipients to pay outstanding Peach Pass toll fees to avoid penalty charges Scams like this can initially seem legitimate� With so many elder adults now using their cellular devices to conduct online banking and other activities, the simple click of a link can instantly rob seniors of their savings and peace of mind�
Elder Abuse at Home
This may occur when trusted family members, friends, or caregivers intentionally harm or fail
We take elder abuse very seriously and have a prosecution unit within the District Attorney’s Office that specializes in handling these crimes� In addition to the MDT, our office partners with Cherokee Triad S�A�L�T� (Seniors And Law Enforcement Together), an organization that works to reduce victimization of senior citizens by offering programs for seniors and caregivers� More information on these programs can be found at SALTCherokee com
June 15 Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day — Here’s How
To Help
• Visit older adults in your life to ensure they are healthy and safe Talk to them about common scams and make sure they are making sound decisions�
• Report elder abuse through the Georgia Division of Aging Services: – Aging�Georgia�gov/report-elder-abuse – 866-55AGING (866-552-4464)
– Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger
Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/District-Attorneys-Office
Right at Home Partners With PocketRN
To Provide New Medicare Care Model for Seniors With Dementia
Right at Home in-home senior care and PocketRN, a leading provider of virtual nursing care, are piloting their collaboration in Cherokee County and surrounding areas through a dementia care model inspired by the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model ahead of PocketRN’s July 2025 formal participation in this new model Right at Home has early access to this program, and client enrollment is now open�
serve,” said Right at Home’s Lori Bochat “This new payment model will enable more seniors to benefit from our services and will support family members caring for their loved ones with dementia ”
PocketRN has been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to participate in the GUIDE Model, which pairs dementia patients and their caregivers with virtual nurses who become trusted companions, offering continuous education, coaching, monitoring, and emotional support — 24/7� PocketRN will be available at no cost to eligible beneficiaries, with a $0 copay
Right at Home will complement this model by providing in-home care and safety assessments, ensuring dementia patients can manage and thrive in their home environments� Together, PocketRN and Right at Home will use their caregiving insight to bring additional resources to assist patients and their families, helping them stay in their homes longer�
The GUIDE Model also offers respite services to give family caregivers much-needed breaks from their responsibilities� Right at Home will be a key provider of these essential services, which can include bathing and grooming, meal preparation and feeding, mobility assistance, medication reminders, transportation, and additional support for families�
“We are thrilled to begin this partnership with PocketRN, which aligns directly with our mission to help improve the lives of those we
The anticipated outcomes of the GUIDE Model include empowering caregivers, reducing Medicare and Medicaid costs by preventing long-term nursing home stays, and decreasing hospital and emergency department visits�
PocketRN’s mission is to close the gap between home and healthcare by enabling nurses to care proactively and continuously at the top of their license, enabling caregivers with peace of mind and the confidence to support others, and enabling patients to access whole-person, trusted, empathetic care when and where they want it� Families can learn more about the GUIDE Model and Medicare benefits at PocketRN com
Families may also contact Right at Home for assistance in connecting with GUIDE representatives and to help with eligibility and navigating this new benefit Woodstock’s Right at Home proudly serves Cherokee County and surrounding areas with in-home care provided by screened, trained, and licensed professional caregivers who are bonded and insured�
35 Years in Aging
[Lifestyle] After working with the senior community for 35 years, I will retire next month�
On my first day at my job at a nursing home in Gainesville in 1990, I quickly realized working with seniors was my calling� I worked there for over two years when I got my next opportunity, and it wasn’t because I was looking A resident’s daughter approached me and said she went to church with the director of senior services in Gwinnett County, and at a prayer group meeting, the director asked the group to pray that she would find the right person to manage all the senior centers in Gwinnett� The resident’s daughter told the director that the answer to her prayers was a man who worked at her mom’s nursing home I interviewed and was offered the position the following week
After 23 years, I retired from Gwinnett County Senior Services, took a week off, and accepted
By Tim Morris
the director of Cherokee County Senior Services position� After 10 years, it’s officially time to retire�
During my first month on the job in Cherokee, I received a call from Family Life Magazines asking for a monthly column� After pondering writing topics, I decided to share stories of my experiences growing up with my grandmother and working with the senior community I never ran out of stories to tell� I’ve truly enjoyed writing this column, and the feedback from readers was nice to hear I’ll miss working with seniors Thanks for all the calls and letters I’ve received� Now, on to the next chapter� L
Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services
Priority Mail
By Linda M. Turner
Ilive in the country, and it’s not unusual for people to dump unwanted animals along our quiet road� We often hear a car door slam, then see the car speed away Undoubtedly, they have left behind some poor, defenseless critter� More often than not, it is kittens� I have discovered whole boxes tipped haphazardly into the ditch or precariously close to the road Unable to ignore their pitiful pleas for help, I rescue them time after time� I don’t want any more cats� I have saved two calicos for utilitarian reasons They patrol our property for mice The rest are corralled and taken to the shelter, where I pretend they will be adopted�
Shortly before dawn this morning, I heard the familiar crunch of tires on gravel Only five retired couples live on our road, and nobody goes anywhere before daylight� I reluctantly rose from bed, bent the slat of a blind, and peeked out There by my mailbox was the silhouette of a pickup truck� Some mailboxes in our area had recently been vandalized, so I assumed ours was about to be next I hurriedly pulled up the blind, coaxed open the window, and yelled, “Hey, you, stop!”
I threw on a robe and raced barefoot out the front door, hoping to get a license plate number before the offenders drove away� I had only gone a few strides when I heard the engine rev and saw the truck peel away,
kicking up gravel and dirt The truck was gone, but the mailbox appeared intact, so back to the house I went� I was fully awake now and knew going back to bed would be futile, so I went to the kitchen to start breakfast�
I was hungry and said out loud, “Heck with the diet I need bacon ” Mom’s old black cast-iron pan was still my mainstay I turned up the flame and carefully laid the peeled strips into the pan� As the bacon sizzled and popped grease all over the stovetop, I whipped up some eggs I chopped and added red bell pepper, green onions, and a little piece of sad tomato that I found forgotten in the fridge I poured the egg concoction into another prepared pan and added a sprinkling of shredded cheddar� The bacon had crisped perfectly on one side, so I flipped it over and back into its own pool of grease� Everything was starting to smell pretty good
The kitchen was warming up, or maybe my temper was still hot from the truck incident, so I cracked the window open a bit� That’s when I heard a soft whine� I stretched awkwardly
on my bare tiptoes to peek through the pollen-coated screen� Next to the camellia bush sat a small pup with its little nose stretched upward toward the scent of the now-burning bacon
I quickly turned off both burners and glanced at my overdone breakfast� My stomach growled� The dog whined to remind me of its presence I hadn’t forgotten it; I just regretted what was to come – another sad trip to the animal shelter� The staff there really hated to see me coming�
I opened the door to go out and inspect this new intruder, and a dark blur of fur scuttled past me on little short legs I turned just in time to see it squat and pee a good-sized puddle on my floor� How could that much liquid come from such a tiny bladder? I tore off some paper towels and tossed them on the wet spot� She hung her little head as if ashamed, then looked up at me with expectant brown eyes� She whined again, and I swear it sounded like she said “bacon ” It was ruined anyway, so I threw a small piece to her� She swallowed it whole and wiggled her butt, turning and turning in circles� There I stood in my ratty robe and bare feet, crumbling bacon for this stray pup� My heart melted along with my resolve not to own a dog I silently thanked the driver of the early morning pickup truck and tried to think of a name for my new best friend�
Congratulations to Our Winner, Linda M. Turner
Thank You to All Who Shared Short Stories With Us!
We received many thoughtful, well-written submissions that covered a wide array of topics, and we enjoyed reading each one� With only 1,000 words to craft a story with a beginning, middle, and end, sentences had to be carefully constructed to be impactful and convey meaning, with no room for verbosity� We truly enjoyed “visiting” the succinct worlds you created, which inspired us to think and feel a wide array of emotions�
Holding the Line at the Close of the
2025 Legislative Session
By Representative Charlice Byrd
Asthe 2025 legislative session adjourned sine die on April 4, I was reminded again why your trust in me matters� This year was filled with both hard-fought victories and frustrating missed opportunities But through it all, I stood firm for our shared principles: limited government, fiscal responsibility, election integrity, and protecting Georgia’s families�
First and foremost, I voted no on the FY26 state budget of $38 billion� In only a decade, Georgia’s spending has surged 64% while our population has only grown 9% We cannot keep throwing taxpayer dollars at bloated programs and pet projects, especially when $1 billion is earmarked for Hollywood handouts Reckless spending even scrapped efforts to pay down our debt If we are serious about cutting the state income tax, we must first stop growing government�
I supported HB111 and HB112, which slightly accelerated the reduction of our state income tax rate and provided modest rebates to taxpayers� But Georgians deserve more than incremental relief — we need bold action, such as cutting a full percentage point, to ease the burden on working families�
On election integrity, I backed HB397, a strong bill passed by the Senate to move Georgia away from the compromised Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) system, increase oversight of the State Election Board, and mandate secure drop box surveillance� Unfortunately, House leadership
stripped the bill’s key reforms, leaving us with yet another missed opportunity to restore trust in our elections
Protecting children and affirming family values remains a top priority� I was deeply disappointed that SB30, which would have banned puberty blockers for minors, was not allowed a full vote in the House� In fact, the bill was gutted by committee amendments� Similarly, SB39, which passed despite a dramatic walkout by some legislators, ensured no taxpayer dollars would fund sex reassignment surgeries for inmates�
While SB204, which included my language from HB120 to block local firearm restrictions, did not cross the finish line before sine die, it will be ready to move to the governor’s desk on day one of the 2026 Legislative Session
As always, I take my role seriously and serve with conviction I am here to listen, learn, and fight for your values at the Capitol I believe good policy starts with strong partnerships at home� So, whether it is over coffee, at your doorstep, or in the halls of the Capitol, I look forward to working with you to preserve Georgia’s future
Charlice Byrd represents Georgia House District 20, which includes parts of Canton and Woodstock. 404-557-2218. Charlice.Byrd@house.ga.gov
Community Partner
LEAVING
A LOCAL FAMILY’S MISSION TO HELP CHILDHOOD CANCER WARRIORS
In Cherokee County, one nonprofit is leaving lasting footprints of compassion, hope, and strength in the lives of families facing one of life’s most heartbreaking battles — childhood cancer� Footprints of Kindness, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was born out of unimaginable loss and immense love� The Moon family, who once found themselves on the receiving end of community support, now stands as a beacon for others walking the same difficult path
The journey began in September 2020, when the Moons received news that their 11-year-old son, Nathan, had stage 4 neuroblastoma What followed was a grueling battle filled with months of chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and hospital stays
Through it all, Nathan remained a symbol of resilience and kindness In 2022, his family experienced a glimmer of hope when he began to regain his strength� But in February 2023, a scan revealed a recurrence of cancer, which was more aggressive than before� While undergoing treatment, Nathan contracted a virus and passed away on April 1, 2023
On the black wall behind his desk, faint marks of his feet, his literal footprints, were found — a quiet reminder of the gentle legacy he left behind�
Inspired by his words, the Moons founded Footprints of Kindness to support families navigating the journey of childhood cancer� The organization offers families financial assistance to help cover essential expenses such as meals, gas cards for hospital travel, or even payments of utility bills� They also help connect families with other local and national resources to ensure no one fights alone They have completed projects including “Kindness Essential Bags” for families that must stay at the hospital longer than expected�
Additionally, Footprints of Kindness believes in nurturing the future� The organization offers scholarships for high school students pursuing further education at local colleges or trade schools The organization also recently hosted their 2nd Annual Wiffle Ball fundraiser, a favorite sport of Nathan’s�
Shortly after his passing, the Moons discovered a speech Nathan had written for school titled “Footprints ” In it, he wrote words that would ultimately become the cornerstone of the nonprofit established in his honor:
• “Be kind to others�”
• “Give to others without receiving ”
• “Stand for giving even when you have nothing ”
• “Throw kindness like a boomerang; you throw it, and it comes back at you�”
Rooted in love and legacy, Footprints of Kindness is a growing movement of support, ensuring Nathan’s compassion continues to echo through every life it touches� For more information about the organization’s current events and fundraisers, or to support their mission, please visit their website or social media pages� You may also send an email to FootprintsOfKindness2023@gmail com
HonoringOur Fathers
By Rev. Kevin Huff
[InGoodFaith] As Father’s Day approaches on June 15, I’m reminded of Exodus 20, verse 12: “Honor your father and your mother that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you ” So, when you disrespect your father, you are also disrespecting God by disobeying this commandment�
My dad has been diagnosed with terminal cancer� Only God knows how much time he has left� So, I’ve been spending as much time with him as possible When I visit him, he likes to pull out old family photo albums and take a trip down memory lane�
Many years ago, I wrote my dad a letter for Father’s Day in which one sentence says, “Daddy, I hope that a whole lot of you has rubbed off on a whole lot of me�” I hope these words show how much I love and respect my dad
In I Timothy 5:4, Paul tells children to “… requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God ” “Requite” means to repay or reward In the same way our parents took care of us when we were young, we are to repay them by taking care of them when they can no longer take care of themselves
It has been an honor and a joy for me, along with my siblings, to help care for my dad in his time of need because he has always been there for me On Father’s Day and every other day, honor your father and show him how much you love him� L
Kevin Huff is the senior pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-213-1690. HopewellBaptist.com
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Trevor Startt Music Is a Blessing
Singer-songwriter Trevor Startt begins each gig with the same five or six songs�
“I need to see how my voice is that night,” Startt says�
Then, he reads his audience to gauge which tunes from his 800-plus-song repertoire will resonate with them� If it’s an older crowd, he turns to classics — performing covers of Dan Fogelberg, James Taylor, Bruce Springsteen, and other music icons� If it’s a Cherokee County crowd, he’ll play a lot of country
“I love all sorts of music,” Startt said “I’m versatile I try to play a bit of music for everyone and never limit myself to one style� It’s a lot of fun for me to play songs that I love ”
Aware of the power of music, Startt says his gigs are for other people
“They can listen to songs they know and have a great time. Music is a good escape. People come to have fun. I hope that I can engage them,” he said
Startt has always felt a connection to music, a love encouraged by both of his parents, who bought him his first guitar when he was 13� Although he is mostly self-taught, he did take piano and voice lessons when he was younger and started performing in front of people when he was 15�
By the time he reached high school, he had a band� Later, he performed with a wedding and corporate band He gives a shout-out to Cherokee County musician Kurt Wheeler for mentoring him, asking him to perform during set breaks, and encouraging him to do solo gigs�
“I turn off one switch and flip on another,” he said
Startt doesn’t recall his first attempt at writing a song, but jokes that it was probably “pretty bad ” His training in writing began while riding in his dad’s car and hearing the music his father grew up enjoying
“The music I’ve listened to taught me about songs, their structure, and how they’re written�” In the seventh grade, he discovered The Dave Matthews Band and was inspired by Matthews’ unique guitar style
Startt says that his best compositions are autobiographical, songs that return to experiences and recapture emotions� His goal isn’t to convey a specific message or to write to a certain audience — rather, he lets the song go where it needs to go
Along the way, Startt earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and began a career in finance� If he has a gig on a Friday night, he heads to the venue straight from the office�
Saying that he is blessed to have music in his life, Startt added, “I love listening to music as much as I love playing� I can play music just for the fun of it� If you’re doing something for money, it’s different I do it for the music� That’s why I keep doing it�”
To learn more about Trevor Startt, follow him on social media or visit his website. Instagram @trevorstarttmusic Facebook @Trevor Startt TrevorStartt.com
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