Woodstock Family Life | August 2024 by Family Life Magazines

Consistency Is Key

This month, Woodstock Family Life begins its 12th year of providing positive, educational, and entertaining content about interesting topics in our community, contributed by local experts and creatives. So, we want to take this opportunity to thank our loyal readers and our advertisers who make it possible for us to deliver our complimentary magazines to thousands of Cherokee County homes and businesses each month.

Though many print and electronic media outlets seem to bombard us with negative or unsettling information, Woodstock Family Life consistently strives to keep readers informed about the positive happenings in the area, so we can celebrate the things that bring us together rather than focusing on topics that are divisive and polarizing. We hope to be a breath of fresh air compared to other content you may consume.

Speaking of consistency, many of us have nonnegotiables in our daily lives. For example, some people wake up at the same time each morning to start their day with a workout, meditation, or prayer. Through trial and error, they’ve likely learned that their day doesn’t go as smoothly when they don’t make time for certain priorities.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” -Will Durant.

So, as the new school year begins and families settle into their hectic routines filled with getting kids up and ready for the day, dropoffs/pickups, arriving to work on time, attending after-school sports and activities, assisting with homework, and all the other responsibilities that come with adjusting to this time of year, establishing a consistent schedule will likely be in everyone’s best interest. While there’s certainly a time and place for spontaneity, there’s comfort in routine and knowing exactly what to expect.

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

Steven Anderson, Michael Caldwell, Kay Kirkpatrick, Tim Morris, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Elaine Scott, Susan K. Treadaway, Aaron M. Vincent

Family Life Magazines

6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095

Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com

Happy August!

Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief

Family Life Magazines publishes the only monthly magazines in Cherokee County that reach more than 30,000 readers in print and digital formats — each issue, every month, with more direct-mailed copies sent to Cherokee County homes than any other local magazine.

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 magazine content are a paid advertisement. Woodstock Family Life magazine 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.

Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

R ECYCLE

InFoster Friendly Woodstock

By Mayor Michael Caldwell

the State of Georgia, there are now approximately 12,100 children and youth in foster care. The number of foster children in Cherokee County has reached a record high of 485.

Coinciding with the increase in children who need safe, loving, stable homes, our state is facing a critical shortage of foster families. There is an even more critical need for families willing to care for older children, children with complex needs, and sibling groups. If you have ever considered fostering children, please call my office, and we will provide resources that can help

you determine if fostering children could be a good fit for your family.

Foster families are far more likely to succeed and sustain their service to children in need when they are part of a community that supports them. In May, I was honored to issue a proclamation to kick off the Foster Friendly Woodstock initiative. Alongside a spectacular organization called Georgia Kids Belong, the City of Woodstock is encouraging local businesses, faith communities, and nonprofits to support this initiative by establishing discounts and special offers for foster families in our community.

We aim to have a minimum of 36 businesses such as ice cream shops, beauty salons, breweries, and others in Woodstock participating in the initiative, and we are well on our way to hitting our target. If you own a business, or you know

a business owner who would be interested in taking part, please contact me or Georgia Kids Belong to get involved. We are also planning to hold a public celebration of this endeavor later this calendar year, and we would love to see you there.

I’m excited to say that after our neighboring city of Acworth, Woodstock is just the second Georgia city to accomplish the worthy endeavor of Foster Friendly status. This initiative is a testament to our city’s values of boldness, authenticity, and collaboration. Let’s take this opportunity to support our neighbors who are serving the children of our community and make a lasting impact on the lives of foster children.

Michael Caldwell is the mayor of the City of Woodstock. 678-523-8570. WoodstockGa.gov

Calendar

AUGUST

1-31

TrailStory: Stella

For the month of October, signs will be placed along the trail with pages of this national bestselling children’s book by Marie Louise Gay on one side of the sign and interactive/QR code questions about the book on the other side of the sign. Children and their families can enjoy the book and the trail at their own pace, anytime, as often as they like. 7:00am7:00pm, Noonday Creek Trail, 109 Elm Street, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Back-to-School Health Clinic

The required hearing, dental, vision and BMI/nutrition screenings will be available. Total cost for screenings is $60. Immunizations for school children will be provided for $21.90 each (for uninsured or underinsured). 1:006:00pm, Canton Health Department, 1219 Univeter Road, Canton and Woodstock Health Department, 7545 North Main Street, Woodstock. 770-345-7371 (Canton), 770928-0133 (Woodstock). NGHD.org

ONGOING

Community Yoga Classes

Mondays, 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

Local Artist Showcase — First Friday of each month, 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

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.

Fresh Start Mornings — This program features entrepreneurshipgeared educational discussions along with presentations from startups seeking crowd-sourced feedback on challenges they are facing as new business owners. FREE! 9:00am networking and 9:15am program begins, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org

SchmoozaPalooza — This event brings businesses together in a fun and casual networking environment. Exhibitors will have tables set up to promote their businesses and make new contacts, while attendees enjoy previews of the exhibitors’ latest products and services, door prizes, food, and fun. FREE to attend! 4:00-7:00pm, Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 770-345-0400. CherokeeChamber.com

Tropical Night at the Oasis — For $5 per person, enjoy a sensory friendly night of swimming, games, pizza, and family fun at the outdoor Oasis Water Park. 4:30-7:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.

Downtown Woodstock Walking Tour

On the last Thursday of the month through October, guided tours will be offered. $5 per person. 6:00-7:30pm (a new tour starts every half hour), Woodstock Visitors Center, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com

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. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org

The Lasting Laugh — Enjoy this hybrid comedy series that brings in two different Atlanta-based comedians monthly, hosted by Jessica It’s All Good. Tickets $10-$14, recommended for ages 12+ (content). 8:00pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

Woodstock Summer Concert Series Presents Who’s Bad Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience Enjoy a FREE concert by this Michael Jackson tribute band in downtown Woodstock. 7:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. WoodstockConcertSeries.com

Fall Gardening for Kids

Children will learn how to plant cool-season crops to enjoy harvests in the late fall and winter months. The fee is $5 per person. 9:00am - 12:00pm, Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com

Lake Allatoona Poker Run — The Lake Allatoona Association hosts this annual fundraiser. Proceeds benefit Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to spouses and children of fallen and disabled military service personnel. Entry fee is $150. Please visit the website or call for times and locations. LakeAllatoonaAssoc.com

Woodstock Farm Fresh Market — Saturdays through 12/30, 8:30am-12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com

American Legion Post 316 South Cherokee County Meeting — Third Thursday of each month, 7:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 706-726-2754. ALPost316Ga.org

MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month, 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. MilVetCommunity.com

15-10/19

Cabinet of Curiosities Exhibit

Step into a realm of mystery and fascination. Blending science, history, and art, this art exhibit fosters community among visitors who are interested in the unusual and unexplored. Tuesday-Thursday 8:00am-9:00pm, Friday-Saturday 8:00am10:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am-6:00pm, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

Work Readiness Wednesday

Presented by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, this FREE program provides experts to help attendees create or update their resumes, prepare for job interviews, and teach job searching tips. 12:30-3:30pm, R.T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton and Woodstock Public Library, 7735 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-345-0400. CherokeeChamber.com

Family Fun Night: Superhero Night — Every third Thursday during summer months, enjoy FREE themed activities and fun for all ages, which culminates with a movie on the Woodstock Arts Event Green (111 Elm Street). This month’s movie will be SpiderMan: Across the Spider-Verse. 5:00-9:00pm, downtown Woodstock, 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com

16 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 and senior veterans. 11:30am-1:00pm, Bellevue Village, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

16-9/1

Dial M for Murder

Adapted from the play that inspired the classic Hitchcock crime thriller by Jeffrey Hatcher, this edge-ofyour-seat-hold-your-breath production will intrigue and delight audiences. Tickets are $19-$23. 2:30pm or 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

Chick-fil-A Cherokee County 5K

This event is hosted by the six Chick-fil-A Cherokee County restaurants, benefiting the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics. Take part in the family-friendly 5K race, 1-mile calf run, or toddlers can enjoy the new Nugget Roll event. This race is an official Peachtree Road Race qualifier. 8:00am 5K, 9:00am 1-mile, and 9:20am Nugget Roll, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. CherokeeCounty5K.com

Storytime Live With Kevin the Minion — Enjoy a story, photos, and more! FREE! 11:00am, The Park at City Center gazebo, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

17 Lantern Series: Royal Wood

Royal Wood has received multiple JUNO nominations, 5 Canadian Folk Music Award nominations, a #1 added song at Hot AC Radio, and most recently his single “A Good Enough Day” was used in a TV campaign that generated a surge in Spotify attention that is now approaching 3 million streams. Tickets are $12-$200. 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 113 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

Hear, Here! Cherokee Voices

Following their forced removal to Oklahoma, many Cherokee submitted claims to the United States detailing their losses including property, livestock, buildings, and more. Hear Dr. Andrew Jones talk about his work transcribing these claims and what it tells us about the removal from the perspective of the Cherokee. 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

Marine Corps League Detachment 1311 Meeting — Third Saturday of each month, 9:30am, Rally Point Grille, 9770 Main Street, Woodstock. 561-213-5699. Harry123130@gmail.com

YPOW AM — Thursdays, 7:00-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group Second Thursday of each month, 11:00am1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.

Adults With Aging Parents

Seminar — Third Thursday of each month, 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events

From the Clay: The Story of Cherokee County’s World-Renowned Pottery Industry Through October, 10:00am-5:00pm Wednesday-Saturday and 12:00-5:00pm Sunday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

Towne Lake

ROSE CREEK

4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491

WOODSTOCK

7735 Main Street, Woodstock 770-926-5859

ADULT SIT AND STITCH

August 6, 1:00pm, Rose Creek

Bring a project to work on while enjoying the company of other crafters.

KIDS’ ART NIGHT

August 6, 4:00pm, Woodstock

Create a fun project with art teacher Ms. Lara! This event is ideal for ages 7+. Registration is required, and all children must be accompanied by an adult

OUTDOOR TODDLER STAY & PLAY

August 15, 10:30am, Rose Creek

This outdoor program is ideal for ages 5 and younger and features imaginative play and water sensory stations, art activities, and music to enjoy while visiting with old friends or making new ones. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

TEENS COOK — MINI WAFFLES

August 15, 6:00pm, Rose Creek

National Waffle Day is in August, so celebrate by making and eating mini waffles. All supplies provided. Registration is required.

WOODSTOCK STEAM LABS — ENGINEERING

August 19, 4:00pm, Woodstock

Explore all things STEAM: science, technology, engineering, arts, and math! Each month, this event will focus on one of these subjects and include a discussion and a hands-on activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

TEEN CREATIVE CAFE

August 22, 6:00pm, Woodstock

Teen Creative Cafe is a supportive, relaxed space to share your current projects and connect with fellow creative teens. Snacks will be provided.

EVENING STORYTIME

continued from page 7

mINgle — This after-hours networking event brings together members of the In WDSTK community and other professionals from the area. Anyone who would like to connect with the Woodstock community is welcome to attend. Event registration is required. 5:30-7:30pm, location TBD. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org

WIT! — The Woodstock Arts Improv Troupe will have the audience rolling down the aisle with laughter! Tickets are $10-$14. 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

3rd Annual Robidou Company CARES

Scramble Golf Tournament

August 29, 5:00pm, Rose Creek

This program supports early literacy with books, songs, and fingerplays and is followed by a craft activity. Craft materials are available while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

This prestigious event brings together golf enthusiasts, professionals, and amateurs for an unforgettable experience and a great cause. All proceeds benefit the Cherokee Family Violence Center. The fee is $125 per player. 9:00am scramble start, The Fairways of Canton, 400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton. 404-376-5159. CFVC.org

21 National Senior Citizens Day

Celebrate this day by spending quality time with senior citizens in your family or volunteering with an organization that helps support senior citizens in your community.

24 The Great Southeast Pollinators Census — Learn about the roles that beneficial insects play in our environment. 10:00am12:00pm, Veteran’s Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-430-7020. CherokeeMasterGardeners.com

27 Tuesdays in the Water Park

Enjoy a school night at the Oasis pool! The fee is $2 per person. 5:00-8:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

28 What’s Up Wednesday: What’s Up With Simple Machines? This monthly program is designed for preschoolers and children between the ages of 3-7. Admission to the Cherokee County History Center is not included. The fee is $5 per child. 11:00am, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

Jazz Night — Sway to some live jazz music and unwind for the weekend with a glass of wine in hand. 6:00pm, The Reeves House Garden, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

Oasis After Hours Party Celebrate Labor Day weekend with swimming, waterslides, food, music, and glow sticks! The fee is $10 per person. 7:30-9:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center. 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org

Community

Cherokee County School District Announcements

Educators, Volunteers Earn Statewide Honors From PTA

TThe annual Georgia PTA awards program recognizes outstanding PTA volunteers and educators, with honors recently presented at the educational advocacy organization’s statewide convention.

CCSD Winners Include:

School nurse Betty Miller of Arnold Mill ES was honored as the Georgia PTA Outstanding Nurse Award winner.

Matthew May who was principal at Mill Creek MS last year and is now the principal at Creekland MS was honored as the Georgia PTA Middle School Principal of the Year.

state’s top honor, Outstanding Local Unit, which celebrates success in all areas.

Mill Creek MS was named the Georgia PTA Outstanding Local Unit Middle School. Congratulations to all members and the 2023-24 PTSA leadership team of CoPresidents Will Egwu and Scott Steinbrenner; Vice Presidents Felicia Hayes, Gail Peel, and Samantha Bowman; Treasurer Lori Harrison, Recording Secretary Brittany Hamlin, Corresponding Secretary Michele Sanchez, and Parliamentarian Paige Todd.

ACTIVE Academies was named the Georgia PTA Outstanding Local Unit High School. Congratulations to all members and the 2023-24 PTSA leadership team of President Sara Samson; Vice Presidents Brenda Page, Christina Brown, and Mandi Fishback; Secretary Jory Cannon; and Treasurer Lynn Beilfuss.

Three CCSD units earned state-level Hearst Family–School Partnership Awards for excellence in bringing the school and community together to support student success: Ball Ground ES STEM Academy, Liberty ES, and Teasley MS.

State-level membership and partnership awards also were presented: Oaktree (100% PTA membership among school staff); Community Partners (more than 30 community partners by the end of the first quarter); Visionary (more than 400 members by Aug. 31), Pace Setters (more than 300 members by Aug. 31) and Early Bird (more than 200 members by Sept. 30).

Oaktree winners are ACTIVE Academies, Clark Creek ES STEM Academy, Free Home ES, Little River ES, River Ridge HS, and Teasley MS.

Principal Mark Smith was honored as the Georgia PTA High School Principal of the Year. He leads ACTIVE Academies, which includes ACE Academy, Cherokee College & Career Academy, i-Grad Virtual Academy, and Transition Academy.

School PTA units were recognized with various awards, with two earning the

Ten CCSD PTA units earned Georgia PTA Outstanding Local Unit Merit Awards:

Arnold Mill ES, Ball Ground ES STEM Academy, Bascomb ES, Clark Creek ES STEM Academy, E.T. Booth MS, Johnston ES, Little River ES, River Ridge HS, R.M. Moore ES STEM Academy, and Teasley MS.

Community Partner winners are Bascomb ES, Clark Creek ES STEM Academy, Little River ES, Mill Creek MS, and Teasley MS.

Visionary winners are Arnold Mill ES, Bascomb ES, Little River ES, Mill Creek MS, River Ridge HS, and Woodstock ES.

Pace Setters winners include Visionary winners and Clark Creek ES STEM Academy, Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy, and Johnston ES. Early Bird winners include Visionary and Pace Setters winners and Creekland MS, Indian Knoll ES, and Knox ES STEM Academy.

CCSD PTA leaders who attended the convention hold their awards.

Teachers Earn National Recognition Including Top Award

Cherokee HS Air Force JROTC instructors

Senior Master Sgt. (Ret.) Jeffrey Bise (A) and Technical Sgt. (Ret.) Jody Van Ostrand (B) and Etowah HS AFJROTC instructors

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Stephen Bergey (C) and Technical Sgt. (Ret.) Ciarra Malto (D) all have achieved 2024 Outstanding Instructor Awards from the U.S. Air Force, an honor earned by only 258 of the more than 1,900 Air Force and Space Force JROTC instructors worldwide.

“We know that instructors go above and beyond each day. The ones we recognize with this award represent the ‘Best of the Best,’” U.S. Air Force Director Col. Johnny R. McGonigal said. “Through this award, we honor their exemplary contributions

and impact on their cadets, school, and community. I extend my deepest appreciation to all winners for their dedication, hard work, and investment they have put into our AF/SF JROTC program and into our cadets. They represent the highest example of our core values, which are crucial to the success of our mission.”

Lt. Col. Bergey advanced in the awards program to be named the regional winner, and now has been named one of only two 2024 Overall Outstanding Instructors of the Year, the highest honor for AF/ SF JROTC teachers worldwide. This is the second time he has earned this top honor, as he also achieved the prestigious recognition in 2022.

These educators’ individual recognitions follow the recent announcement that their programs earned top awards from the U.S. Air Force.

Cherokee HS’s program earned the 2024 Distinguished Unit Award With Merit, one of only 147 AFJROTC programs worldwide to achieve this honor; Etowah’s program earned the Distinguished Unit Award, one of only 244 to achieve this honor. The Cherokee HS program additionally earned the Silver Star Community Service With Excellence Award, the highest unit award achievable and awarded to only 45 programs, the top 5%, worldwide.

C D

A B

Community

Woodstock's Hub Transformation Project Wins Award

The City of Woodstock's Hub Transformation Project has been named a 2024 Project of Excellence by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Assistant to the City Manager Jamie Palmer, Engineering Manager Janis Steinbrenner, Cherokee County Community Development Director Brantley Day, and Matt McDow with project partner Arcadis accepted the award at the recent ASCE Georgia Section Annual Awards Gala.

The Hub Transformation Project improved traffic operations in downtown Woodstock by converting Mill Street to a two-way street, converting the intersection of Mill Street and Towne Lake Parkway to

Cherokee County Tag Renewal You Have Options!

Whether you've just bought a car, are new to Georgia, or it's time for your renewal, scan the QR code for a video that covers everything you need to know about the four convenient ways to renew your vehicle tag in Cherokee County.

1. Georgia MV Express Kiosks — Towne Lake Kroger, Hickory Flat Commons Kroger, and Woodmont Village Kroger

2. Online — EServices.Drives.Ga.gov

3. U.S. Mail — Send to 2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114

4. In Person — Visit the offices in Woodstock or Canton

For more information, contact the Cherokee County Tax Commissioners Office at 678-493-6400, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm.

a roundabout, and adding a left turn lane at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway eastbound onto Main Street northbound.

These changes allow many vehicles to effectively bypass the heavily congested Main Street at Towne Lake Parkway intersection, reducing delays and crash frequency. The project received a loan and grant from the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank administered by the State Road and Tollway Authority.

Natural Gas Provider Offers a Permanent Discount for Woodstock Customers

Gas South, Georgia’s highest-rated natural gas provider, has partnered with the City of Woodstock to provide exclusive customer savings and support for community projects. Thanks to this partnership, Woodstock residents and small businesses save thousands of dollars yearly on natural gas.

Special Benefits

• A permanent 2¢ per therm discount on Gas South’s affordable rates (applies to current Woodstock customers, too)

• No deposit and no connection fee — that’s instant savings even before your first bill

• $50 bill credits when you use fast and easy online enrollment

• The City of Woodstock’s partnership with Gas South provides funds for safety and security improvements to Woodstock’s Greenprints Trail System

COED Celebrates Second LaunchPad Bootcamp Graduates

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) awarded over $69,000 in grants to the 14 graduates from the second LaunchPad Bootcamp Series class.

The free four-week series is a partnership between COED and Kennesaw State University’s HatchBridge Incubator. It is designed to guide Cherokee’s emerging entrepreneurs to research, refine, and prepare their ventures for launch and help them grow in the community. Graduates leave the series with an idea deck, business model canvas, and go-to market plan.

Also, each participant can earn up to $5,000 to advance their venture,

To learn more about your natural gas benefits as a Woodstock customer, visit GasSouth.link/Woodstock-news or call 404-260-5530.

Gerald Griffith, Lee Meyer, Lee Freeman-Smith,

funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. All 14 graduates were eligible to apply and were awarded the mini-grant.

This program is offered as part of COED’s Fresh Start Cherokee initiative, which aims to create a culture of entrepreneurship in Cherokee County. Visit FreshStartCherokee. com to learn more and view more programs.

Second LaunchPad Bootcamp Series graduates (L-R): Tony Whitfield, Jill Whitfield, Colin Ake, Kathryn Cruz, Graham Gintz, Hayden Holcomb, Keren Herrera, Edgar Herrera, Nichole Landfair, Whitney Cain, Stephanie Villasenor, Cindy Thomas, Dusty Beaulieu, Mindy Johnson, Jamie Foreman,

Matt Thomas, and Gary Simmons

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CHEROKEE

8/16 vs. River Ridge

8/23 @ Sequoyah

8/30 vs. Pope

9/6 @ Lambert

9/20 @ North Paulding

9/27 vs. Etowah

10/4 @ Wheeler

10/11 vs. Walton

10/18 vs. North Cobb

10/25 @ Marietta

CREEKVIEW

8/16 vs. Calhoun

8/23 vs. North Forsyth

8/30 @ Cambridge

9/6 vs. Lassiter

9/13 @ Riverwood

9/27 vs. Woodstock

10/4 @ Sprayberry

10/11 @ Pope

10/25 vs. River Ridge

11/1 @Sequoyah

ETOWAH

8/16 @ Woodstock

8/23 vs. Sprayberry

8/30 @ Campbell

9/6 vs. Chapel Hill

9/13 vs. Marietta

9/27 @ Cherokee

10/4 vs. North Paulding

10/11 @ Wheeler

10/18 @ Walton

10/25 vs. North Cobb

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

RIVER RIDGE

8/16 @ Cherokee

8/23 vs. Denmark

8/30 vs. Allatoona

9/6 vs. Woodstock

9/13 vs. Pope

9/27 @ Sequoyah

10/4 vs. Riverwood 10/11 @ Sprayberry

10/25 @ Creekview

11/1 vs. Lassiter

SEQUOYAH

8/16 @ Denmark

8/23 vs. Cherokee

8/30 @ Kell

9/6 vs. Riverwood 9/13 @ Sprayberry

9/27 vs. River Ridge

10/4 @ Lassiter

10/11 vs. Woodstock

10/25 @ Pope 11/1 vs. Creekview

Games Begin at 7:30pm

schedules were accurate at time of print. Please visit the following websites to verify information before attending a game: CherokeeK12.net | CherokeeChristian.org TheKingsAcademy.org

WOODSTOCK

8/16 vs. Etowah

8/23 @ Woodland

8/30 vs. North Springs

9/6 @ River Ridge

9/13 vs. Lassiter

9/27 @ Creekview

10/4 vs. Pope

10/11 @ Sequoyah

10/25 vs. Riverwood

11/1 @ Sprayberry

CHEROKEE CHRISTIAN

8/16 vs. Georgia Force Christian Athletics

8/23 @ Christian Heritage

8/30 @ Armuchee

9/13 @ Mount Paran Christian

9/27 vs. Creekside Christian

10/4 vs. Dominion Christian

10/18 @ Lanier Christian

10/25 @ Central Fellowship Christian 11/1 vs. Skipstone

Home games held at Cherokee Veterans Park Home games held at Kell HS *at River Ridge HS

THE KING’S ACADEMY

8/16 vs. Kings Ridge Christian

8/23 @ St. Francis

8/30 @ Creekside Christian

9/6 @ George Walton

9/13 vs. Bethlehem Christian

9/20 vs. Piedmont*

10/4 @ Athens Christian

10/11 vs. Lakeview

10/18 @ Loganville Christian

10/25 vs. Riverside Preparatory

By Jennifer Paire

STUNNING STYLE:

JYL CRAVEN HAIR DESIGN

Jyl Craven Hair Design is a mainstay for women throughout the southeast who flock to the urban yet cozy salon for transformative hair services including precision cuts, natural-looking color, and more volume.

“We have guests who have been with us 20-plus years as well as new clients, and they come from four and five hours away to the salon for a variety of haircare services including finding a solution for hair loss,” says owner Jyl Craven. “We cut and color all day long from edgy, trendy haircuts to more classic and traditional styles. We are really versatile with a wide range of options in terms of experience level and price points.”

The full-service salon’s experienced and highly trained stylists specialize in gray hair coverage, balayage, hair extensions, and hair loss.

“Our ideal guests want a natural-looking color that works for them and a cut that accentuates their own unique features,” says Jyl, whose salon will celebrate 25 years in November. “We work as a team, and one of our favorite questions we often ask is, ‘If you could do anything with your hair, what would you do?’ It’s about making people look and feel their best.”

A FULLER HEAD OF HAIR

Jyl Craven Hair Design’s Bellami Hair Extension services are considered the best in north Georgia and the most popular option for transforming someone’s appearance in one application.

“Our guests choose hair extensions for many different reasons,” Jyl explains. “Let’s say someone already has long hair, but it’s really fine in texture, and they want it to be thicker. With a single-strand technique of applying hair, a stylist can blend in new hair in a way that’s natural looking and gives the additional volume and density someone so often desires.”

Beginning in the 1980s, hair extensions were used by the “very rich and mega-famous” according to HairExtensionMagazine.com. No longer out of reach due to cost, extensions instantly give any woman the opportunity to look and feel her best at an affordable price.

Hair extensions are ideal for…

• Any color of hair – Bellami has 42 different shades

• Minor “fill-ins” that frame the face

• Dramatic changes that create new confidence

• Instant length, volume, and density

With several application techniques, the salon’s certified stylists identify the best method for addressing each person’s thinning hair challenges.

Bellami Hair Extensions are created using double-drawn, 100% Remy human hair — the best quality human hair available — which is one of the reasons it is the most recognized hair extension brand in the world. To learn more, visit JylCraven.com/ hair-extensions-canton-ga.

BEATING HAIR LOSS BEAUTIFULLY

For more than a decade, Jyl Craven Hair Design has offered the Evolve Volumizer hair system, which is a semipermanent, life-changing option for women struggling with hair loss. While extensions are great for longer hair or hair that is too fine, Evolve addresses significant hair loss, as much as 50% on top of the head, where extensions would not work.

“Evolve is a system for women only that provides instant, beautiful, natural-looking hair that is integrated into your own hair and can be worn day and night for four to five weeks before returning to the salon for maintenance,” Jyl explains. “The system lays flat on the scalp and is invisible to the eye. Once the hair system is applied, it looks like a full head of hair and can be blow-dried, styled, and curled just like your own head of hair.”

Kathy, a Jyl Craven client since 2010 who had struggled to find the right solution for her hair loss, has been very satisfied with the system.

“I’ve had more compliments with the Evolve system than I’ve ever had,” says Kathy. “I forget that it’s on, and it’s easy to blow dry. I wear a ponytail — it’s easy to style.”

With hair loss, there are pills, surgeries, wigs, and various options. Hair transplants can be painful and expensive. Wigs can be hot. Evolve is a nondamaging, noninvasive solution that can give a woman the confidence she deserves.

A TRADITION OF TEACHING

Jyl Craven Hair Design has been training stylists for a decade. The increasingly popular Apprenticeship Program continues to attract attention as an alternative to cosmetology school, allowing participants to work and learn in a state-of-the-art facility while making money. Working under a trained stylist, the two-anda-half-year program provides hands-on experience, accredited hours, and culminates with the state’s Board of Cosmetology Exam.

For more information, visit JylCraven.com/hair-apprenticeships.

For inspiration and to learn more about the team, find the salon on Instagram @jylcravenhair.

Organized Retail Crime What You Should Know

By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway

Walkinto any retail establishment and you’ll notice dramatic changes in how goods are sold, for example:

• Upgraded security systems with AI technology

• Stricter return policies

• Items locked away in cabinets requiring store associate assistance for purchase

The impact of organized retail crime is all around us.

as disposable razors, over-the-counter medications, diapers, and laundry detergent.

Historically, retailers have factored in loss due to damage and theft (called “shrinkage”) as a routine cost of doing business. But over the last decade, retail shrinkage has evolved into much more, with a reported loss of over $100 billion annually. The rise in organized retail crime (ORC) is to blame.

ORC enterprises have a common mission: theft of high-demand merchandise for the purpose of resale. While luxury brands may be the first to come to mind when we hear the term “retail theft,” goods targeted are typically everyday household items such

Thieves (called “boosters”) enter stores to steal large quantities of specific items. The boosters then transport stolen goods to a prearranged location, sometimes multiple states away, where the merchandise is sold to a “fence,” who prepares the merchandise for resale by repackaging or altering its branding. The fence offers the product through an online marketplace or other secondary market such as a flea market or wholesale outlet. Consumers then purchase the merchandise at a substantial discount without questioning why it is priced so low or where the products originated.

This practice can be especially dangerous when considering that food products have strict guidelines established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure that the product remains safe for consumption. For example, extreme temperatures can degrade nutrients in infant formula, which should be stored at 55-75 degrees Fahrenheit. While retailers adhere to FDA guidelines to ensure the safety of their customers, ORC enterprises are only concerned with profiting through theft.

Even more alarming is that ORC incidents may threaten the safety of employees and customers. According to the National Retail Federation, violent ORC incidents continue to rise and for this reason, an increasing

number of retailers do not allow store associates to intervene. In fact, The D&D Daily’s 2023 Retail Violent Fatalities Report states that 82 associates nationwide were killed last year during robberies, burglaries, or thefts in their stores.

Countless other assaults also occur, ranging from employees and customers being pushed and verbally threatened to being terrorized with weapons such as knives and guns.

As a result, some customers avoid brick-andmortar stores and instead purchase items online, not realizing that those items may have been stolen from the very stores where they used to shop.

The next time you come across a deal that seems too good to be true, consider that this just may be the case. Ask questions about the seller. Verify the product has been stored safely. Trust your instincts.

The Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office is proud to work with retailers and law enforcement to prosecute organized retail crime to the full extent of the law.

Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office

Sources: Cavale, Siddharth. Reuters. “Organized Retail Crime: a multi-billion dollar problem.” June 29, 2023. Reuters.com. D&D Daily. 2023 Organized Retail Crime Report. D-DDaily.com. D&D Daily. 2023 Retail Violent Fatalities Report. D-DDaily.com. National Retail Federation. 2023 Retail Security Survey. September 26, 2023. NRT.com. National Retail Federation. Organized Retail Crime: An Assessment of a Persistent and Growing Threat. Nov. 29, 2023. NRF.com. Tobin, Ben. Business Insider. “Why Shoplifting Gangs Prefer Cheap Goods at Stores like Walmart and CVS Instead of Luxury Merchandise.” April 14, 2023. BusinessInsider.com

What To Look for in a Robust Retirement Plan

By Aaron M. Vincent, CFP®

[StrategicLife] A comprehensive retirement plan is essential to ensure financial security and peace of mind in your retirement years. In a recent video, Vincent Financial Group outlined a robust approach to retirement planning. Here are the key elements:

1. Portfolio Analysis - Begin with a thorough examination of your current investments. Utilize tools such as a Morningstar report to assess performance, risk, and fees. Understanding the mix of stocks and bonds as well as how your portfolio stacks up against benchmarks is crucial. Retirees often think they are diversified and have limited risk, only to find that many of the mutual funds they invest in are a mix of the same equities.

2. Fee Management - Most investors understand that fees are paid to their financial planner but are unaware that there are both direct and hidden fees in investment funds. Ensuring you are not overpaying and redirecting savings into better-performing investments will help keep you on track.

3. Risk Assessment - Align your investment strategy with your risk tolerance, which starts with knowing how much risk you are willing to take today and how that level of risk should change as you get closer to retirement. Many getting close to retirement have not asked themselves the risk question or have not made necessary adjustments to avoid unnecessary volatility.

4. Tax Efficiency - Have a plan to identify the most tax-efficient ways to draw down your investments. This includes strategies such as Roth conversions and managing capital gains to minimize tax liabilities.

5. Income Planning - Develop a detailed retirement income plan that accounts for various scenarios including market downturns, inflation, and unexpected expenses. This ensures that your retirement income is stable and sustainable.

Most retirement plans undergo a checkup every year. If it has been more than a year, seek help from a professional and have them focus on these elements. You can create a well-rounded and effective retirement plan that maximizes returns, minimizes risks, and ensures financial stability throughout retirement. L

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Impact Partnership Wealth, LLC (IPW), a Registered Investment Adviser.

Aaron M. Vincent is president and financial advisor for Vincent Financial Group. 9200 Main Street, Suite 2A, Woodstock. 770-485-1876. VincentPlanning.com

MORE MONEY

Back in Your Pocket

By State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, MD

This year, the Georgia State Senate focused on cutting taxes and delivering relief for hardworking Georgians.

Locally, for example, I am proud to announce that my proposal to expand the property tax exemption for Cherokee County seniors passed with 91% of the vote in the May election. This legislation will provide much-needed relief for our seniors struggling with rising property tax rates.

I also know that everyone, not just seniors, is impacted by skyrocketing property taxes. That’s why I fought to ensure the Save Our Homes Act will be on the ballot in November. If passed, it will prevent the assessed tax value on homes from increasing by more than 3% annually. Georgians have seen a 40-47% increase in assessed home values, and this bill will prevent that from happening again.

The Georgia State Senate also passed legislation to accelerate the state income tax rate reduction. This change will save Georgians roughly $1.1 billion over the next year alone. I am committed to working with my Senate colleagues to ensure we continue putting more of your hard-earned dollars back in your pocket. This is a step in the right direction for all Georgians.

During the interim, the Senate remains hard at work with several study committees that meet throughout the year to learn more about important issues facing our communities.

Study committees include:

 Senate Study Committee on Improving Family Caregiver Services

 Senate Study Committee on Preservation of Georgia’s Farmlands

 Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Childcare

 Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence

 Senate Study Committee on Veterans’ Mental Health and Housing

 Senate Supporting Safety and Welfare of All Individuals in Department of Corrections Facilities Study Committee

 Senate Advancing Forest Innovation in Georgia Study Committee

Additionally, the Senate Special Committee on Investigations will continue its important work of looking into the conduct of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

I am proud to serve Cherokee County and look forward to continuing my work on your behalf. Please contact me with any questions or if I can be of service to you and your family.

Kay Kirkpatrick, MD, represents District 32, which includes Canton and Woodstock. 404-656-3932. SenatorKayKirkpatrick.com

World Class Athletes Head to Summer Paralympics Paris

By Ellen Samsell Salas

When he proposed that sports could aid the recovery of disabled World War II veterans, Sir Ludwig Guttman could not have foreseen that his vision would become an international venue for thousands of athletes. Starting with wheelchair competitions between disabled veterans and holding them at the same time as the 1948 London Olympics, Guttman created the Stoke Mandeville Games. In 1952, disabled athletes from the Netherlands joined the competitions. By 1960, the Stoke Mandeville Games became the first Paralympic Games. Held in Rome, Italy, they included over 400 athletes from 23 countries.

What’s in a Name?

From the Greek root “para” meaning “beside,” the Paralympics are the events running next to, or after, the Olympics.

What’s in a Symbol?

The Paralympic Agitos Logo

The “agitos,” Latin for “I move,” symbolize the athletic spirit in motion.

The Heart of Champions

The core values of the Paralympics are courage, determination, inspiration, and equality.

Who Can Compete?

Paralympians compete in six disability groups: amputee, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, spinal cord injuries, intellectual disability, and “les autres” for those athletes who do not fit into one of the other five categories.

Understanding the Letters and Numbers

To ensure fairness, athletes are classified by Sport Class and Sport Class Status, and they can only compete in the classifications for which they have been deemed eligible.

The Sport Class is designated by a letter, for example, “T” is used to denote track athletes. The Sport Class Status is designated by the number that follows the letter, and it refers to the type of impairment that impacts the athlete’s performance. For example, a track athlete whose performance is impacted by short stature is designated as T40-41. A track athlete whose performance is impacted by a lower limb deficiency is classified as T42-44. The lower the number, the more significant the impairment.

Setting the Standard How Athletes Qualify for the Games

• Placement at World Championships or Regional Games

• Rank in World, Regional, or Paralympic Rankings

• Meeting Minimal Qualification Standards Set by the International Paralympic Committee

• Invitation

Fan Favorites

1. Wheelchair Basketball

The International Wheelchair Basketball Foundation estimates that approximately 100,000 people are now playing the sport.

2. Para Athletics

3. Para Swimming

Wheelchair tennis, sitting volleyball, para table tennis, and para cycling are also fan favorites.

Wheelchair Fencing

Wheelchair Tennis

Para Swimming

Para Cycling

Scan to see the Paralympic Games logo.

Bringing Home the Gold

With a total of 385 gold medals since 1960, the USA has won more than any other country. Though the USA has won more medals than any other nation at nine games, for the past five games, China has won the most medals.

USA Athletes Favored To Win Gold

Having won gold in 2016 and 2020, the USA Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team is this year’s favorite.

Since the 1988 Paralympics, USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball has won four of the nine golds and medaled at three other Paralympic Games, so look for them to be a major contender for the gold in Paris.

Poised for their seventh medal performance in a row, the USA Wheelchair Rugby team won silver in 2020 but hopes to garner gold this year.

Athletes Are the Heart of the Games

Most Medals Overall

Legally blind from birth, American swimmer Trischa Zorn-Hudson competed in seven Paralympic Games, from 1980 to 2004, winning 55 medals.

Most Gold Medals

Of Trischa Zorn-Hudson’s 55 total medals, 41 of them are gold, which makes her the record holder in this category, as well.

Most Medals at One Paralympic Games

At the Rome Games in 1960, Italian Maria Scutti won 11 medals — two of which were gold. Scutti’s para table tennis total remains the record.

A Close Second

American wheelchair racer Bart Dobson came close to Scutti’s record when he brought home eight golds at the 1988 Seoul Games.

Georgia Greats Past and Present

Hailing from Athens, Jarryd Wallace was set to compete on UGA’s track team when he was diagnosed with a condition that required the amputation of the lower part of his right leg. Undeterred, Wallace almost immediately began training for para track competitions. The 2019 UGA graduate competed in three Paralympic Games: London (2012), Rio (2016), and Tokyo (2020). He won a bronze medal in the 200m at the Tokyo Games. A fierce competitor, Wallace also earned three World Championship golds, set four World Records, and was named the 2013 Male Para Athlete of the Year by USA Track and Field.

Swimmer McKenzie Coan, born in Clarksville, has competed in three Paralympic Games, starting with the 2012 London Games. Her medal count stands at six — four of those gold. Trying to make a comeback from infections that saw her pull out of the 2023 Para World Championships, Coan qualified for Team USA for the Paris Games.

Three-time Paralympian from Peachtree City, goalball player Amanda Dennis lead her 2020 silver medal team with 13 goals in seven matches. She also brought home a bronze in 2016. Legally blind, Dennis credits her good spatial awareness with her success in goalball. Watch for her quickness, as Team USA heads into the competition.

2024 at a Glance

Who: Over 4,000 athletes

What: 22 sports, 164 medal events

When: August 28-September 8

Where: Paris, France

22 Sports and Counting

1. Blind Football

2. Boccia

3. Equestrian

4. Goalball

5. Para Archery

6. Para Athletics

7. Para Badminton

8. Para Canoe

9. Para Cycling

10. Para Judo

11. Para Powerlifting

12. Para Rowing

13. Para Swimming

14. Para Table Tennis

15. Para Taekwondo

16. Para Triathlon

17. Shooting Para Sport

18. Sitting Volleyball

19. Wheelchair Basketball

20. Wheelchair Fencing

21. Wheelchair Rugby

22. Wheelchair Tennis

Sources: https://bbc.com>sports>articles; https://georgiadogs.com>new>womens-tenniswallace; https://www.ittf.com/2024/04/01; www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/paralympicsgb/ amazing-paralympic-facts; https://www. paralympic.org; www.physio-pedia.com; https:// pressroom.toyota.com/athlete/jarryd-wallace/; https://sportsfoundation.org/paralympic-sportslist/; https://www.stokemandevillestadium.co.uk/ history; https://usopm.org; https://www.wdtn. com/sports/olympics/2024-olympics/paralympicgold-medalist-mckenzie-coan-uses-positivity-toinspire-others

Para Athletics

Blind Football

Para Powerlifting

Wheelchair Basketball

The Wisdom in Removing Wisdom Teeth

By Steven Anderson, DMD

[Healthy Life] If you’ve got them, why remove them? Wisdom teeth (third molars) are in the very back of your mouth. Sometimes, these molars remain under the gums and never come in. Wisdom teeth that do not come in or do not have room to erupt completely are termed “impacted.” If you are unsure if you have impacted wisdom teeth, your dentist can make this determination.

Although you may not currently have any pain or issues with your wisdom teeth, that does not mean you won’t ever have problems. In some cases, tumors can grow around impacted wisdom teeth, destroying the jawbone. By extracting them, you remove this possibility.

Often, partially erupted wisdom teeth cause “gum pain” or significantly contribute to periodontitis, a common and serious disease that causes the supporting bone around the tooth to deteriorate. Once the bone deteriorates, the tooth becomes loose and eventually falls out.

Unfortunately, the destroyed jawbone does not grow back. Periodontitis around wisdom teeth spreads to neighboring teeth, causing additional bone loss around otherwise healthy molars. An astute dentist will recognize this nearly inevitable condition and can guide you through the appropriate treatment for preventing this incurable disease. By removing your wisdom teeth, you can better clean the other molars in the back of your mouth, which can also help prevent periodontitis.

Should everyone get their wisdom teeth removed? Discuss this question with your dentist. It depends upon a thorough examination and your individual situation. It also depends upon the oral health risks you are willing to live with. A patient’s age and health history should always be a consideration. Also, even though your wisdom teeth might not bother you right now, you should consider having them removed to prevent future issues.

Removal of wisdom teeth is a common and generally safe surgery with very few risks. Many general dentists remove wisdom teeth safely and efficiently, using local anesthesia. Oral surgeons usually use anesthesia that puts you to sleep for the procedure. As with any surgery, complications can arise. Most complications are successfully managed, and patients usually heal quickly.

Remember, early prevention is a key principle in dentistry, and accepting preventative dental treatment often makes a big difference later in life. After all, great dentistry focuses on you, even if it means removing a wisdom tooth. L

Dr. Steven Anderson practices cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb. 650 Claremore Professional Way, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770-384-8505. DrStevenAnderson.com

Artist Profile

BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

Ashley Bruce

Creating a Beautiful Confluence of Art and Science

Ashley Bruce has always been drawn to both science and art. Science led her to become a kinesiology instructor at the University of North Georgia. But it was only after taking an oil painting class four years ago that she also fully embraced art.

Bruce said that one class “hooked” her. “After that, I just kept trying to learn. I’ve never stopped since I took that class.”

Juggling a busy teaching schedule as well as studies toward a doctorate, Bruce carves out time to paint.

“It’s an outlet, something I look forward to on weekends, sometimes at night,” she said. “When I start, it becomes my world at that moment, and I don’t think about anything else.”

For inspiration, Bruce hikes in Georgia’s mountains and takes a camera with her, so she can add to her library of images. When she begins to sketch, she will refer to her shots of landscapes and animals. Currently inspired by an aunt’s bird paintings, she is focusing on portraits of birds.

Bruce’s paintings include large canvasses as well as tiny ones. Her preferred surface is birch and other woods because their rough surfaces allow an impressionistic quality. Her preferred shape for portraits is square or round. When she begins a piece, she sketches freehand, letting her photographs and her mind’s eye dictate proportions and ensure accuracy.

“I do a lot of erasing,” she said.

Her next step is to apply a wash to the entire surface, so the oils don’t seep into the wood and later cause discoloration.

Using “a lot of brushes,” angled as well as round, she attempts to convey her interpretation of the animal’s personality. Sometimes she wants the viewer to react a certain way, but her primary goal is to communicate her understanding of the animals.

Recently, Bruce has painted miniature objects and now collaborates with another local artist, Kailee Feier Bracken, to create jewelry. Bracken creates the small “canvasses” from polymer clay and then turns them over to Bruce who might paint a landscape, flowers, animals — even fairy doors or other fantasy objects. Still using oils, but working with size 0 brushes, she recreates intricate details. Bracken then fires the pieces and turns them into jewelry.

“It’s like Christmas morning when I see how Bailee finishes them,” Bruce said.

Thankful for the local arts community that has welcomed her, Bruce knows she has found another passion.

When painting her bird portraits, Bruce prefers profile views because they allow her to hone in on the details of the animal’s eye to reveal its personality.

“Every time I do a painting, I get better. It’s neat to see that growth,” she said. “I will never stop painting. I’ll always find time for it.

Photo courtesy of Abigail Peyton

Photo courtesy of Kailee Feirer Bracken

On the Changing of Seasons

By Elaine Scott

[InGoodFaith] August, the last full month of summer, usually finds most of us longing for cooler weather, apple pie, and pumpkin spice. As a gardener, the transition from summer to fall means preparing my plants for cooler temperatures. These preparations remind me of how my life, like my garden, has seasons. I’ve noticed the strategies I use to get my garden ready for fall also help me prepare for my own next season.

To prepare my garden for an easier fall transition, I regularly trim and deadhead my plants throughout the summer. Trimming — the cutting away of irregular, unwanted plant growth — prompts me to consider what attitudes, habits, or choices I’m making that are unhelpful and inconsistent with the person I long to be. Things such as pride, bitterness, and being unforgiving need to be cut away.

Choices to overindulge, rationalize unwise behavior, or compare myself to others can hinder healthy growth. Ask yourself, “What needs trimming in my life?”

Similarly, deadheading — the removal of dead flowers from plants — ensures a longer blooming period and provides greater overall plant health. This yields a stronger plant going into a harder season. So, I ask myself, “What ‘dead bloom’ am I hanging onto that needs removing?” Maybe it’s a past success or achievement I’m deriving my value from, or a relationship I’m clinging to that really needs to end. Until those dead blooms are removed, new ones can’t blossom.

The most important thing I do with my plants, however, is pruning. Wise gardeners prune fruitful branches to the point where one wonders if the plant will survive. But

pruning is essential for maximum vitality and fruitfulness year after year. This inspires the questions, “Am I prepared to give up those things that, while good, could be even more fruitful if I took a season of rest from them, allowing me time to grow wiser, stronger, and healthier before returning to them? If not, why not?”

Our lives move in seasons. While we can’t know what a season will bring, we can certainly prepare ourselves through healthy and regular self-examination. L