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 Woodstock 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
Steven Anderson, Charlice Byrd, Norman Colby, James Lang, Tim Morris, Jennifer Paire, Andy Rogers, 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. Woodstock 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
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
JUNE
1-7/12
All the Fixins: Artists From the South
This exhibition is open to artists from all over the South to submit their work for consideration by a panel of judges� Three winners and a People’s Choice Award will be selected FREE! 8:00am-7:00pm SundayWednesday and 8:00am-8:00pm ThursdaySaturday, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
4-18
How I Became a Pirate
This Theatre For Young Audiences production is for anyone who loves the spirit of adventure, going out to sea, or exploring the wonders of the world� Tickets $16-$20� 10:00am Wednesdays and 2:30pm Fridays/Saturdays, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
6 & 25 WIT!
The Woodstock Arts
Improv Troupe will have the audience rolling down the aisle with laughter! Tickets $10$14� 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
7
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� 5:308:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
7
Lantern Series: Luciane Dom
Blending the spirit of slam poetry with genre-crossing musical influences, Dom delivers an immersive performance that invites the audience to move, reflect, and connect with her unique fusion of Afrobeat, urban jazz, reggae, and Ijexá� Tickets start at $20� 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women Build Third Tuesday of each month, 6:30-7:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/women-build
Family Fun Night — Third Thursday of the month through August. 5:00-9:00pm, downtown Woodstock, 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com
June Is — National Camping, Candy, Country Cooking, Dairy, Great Outdoors, Iced Tea, PTSD Awareness, and Soul Food Month as well as Audiobook, Care for Your Grandparents, Guitars on the Beach, International Mud, and Pride Month
Sacred Spaces: The Legacy of Black Churches in Cherokee County Through 8/30/25, 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.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
7
First Saturday Game Night — Learn new games or play old classic favorites� For $8 per person, attendees are welcome to bring a game and take over a table to teach others 4:00-11:00pm, WGLSC Activity Center Expansion, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
7
Summer ROCKS! — Gather with others to paint summer-themed items on river rocks and distribute them throughout the city, free with registration 1:00-2:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 103 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
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
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
MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month, 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
12
Mingle
This after-hours networking event highlights a local business 4:30-6:30pm, location TBD, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.GlueUp.com/org/inwdstk
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
Summer Concert Series & 99X Free Day Out: The Gin Blossoms Summer’s getting hotter with multi-platinum-selling 90s alternative rock band The Gin Blossoms, the Josh Joplin Group, and Major at this FREE event in downtown Woodstock� 7:30pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. WoodstockConcertSeries.com
[continued on page 8]
Morning INFluence Last Friday of each month, RSVP is required. 8:00-9:00am, The Chambers at City Center. 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.GlueUp.com/org/inwdstk
Community Yoga Classes — On Monday mornings, bring your own mat for a FREE yoga class. 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
20
Scan for Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
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
Jazz and Wine Under the Stars
Celebrate Juneteenth with an unforgettable evening of live jazz, fine wine, and community under the stars VIP tables are $125; general admission is FREE� 7:0010:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-744-0344. CherokeeCountyNAACPGa.org
ONGOING
Downtown Woodstock Walking Tour
26
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 11:30am-1:00pm, Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
21 Storytime Live With Sleeping Beauty — 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
22 Craft: 3D Design Basics
Attendees will learn the basics of 3D printing, equipment, and software� The class fee is $10� 2:00-4:00pm, WGLSC Activity Center Expansion, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
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
Last Thursday of the month through October, $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
YPOW AM — Thursdays, Young Professionals of Woodstock networking. 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.
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
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! $5 per person� 12:00-12:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
27
Jazz Night — Sway to some live jazz music and unwind for the weekend with a glass of wine Admission is FREE! 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House Garden, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
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
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.
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
2 Fresh Start Mornings — This program features entrepreneurship-geared educational discussions and presentations from startups seeking crowd-sourced feedback on challenges they face as new business owners� 9:00am networking, 9:15am program, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org/freshstartmornings
4
July 4th Spectacular! — Celebrate our nation’s birthday with Woodstock’s Freedom Run, parade, festival, and fireworks! 7:00am run, 10:00am parade, 11:00am-3:00pm festival, and fireworks at dusk, downtown Woodstock, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
5 Star Spangled Pub Crawl — Continue celebrating Independence Day with a festive, fun-filled pub crawl throughout downtown Woodstock� 2:00-6:00pm, downtown Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com
Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting — First Thursday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-5705828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market — Saturdays through 12/27, 8:30am-12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com
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
Towne Lake
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
By Jennifer Paire
Family-owned Kragor Orthodontics is celebrating summer in its new Woodstock location, while delivering the same warm, personalized care in a more accessible setting.
Operated by Drs� Ambre and Andy Kragor since 2016, the modernized digs received patients in May at 281 Heritage Walk, right behind the Chick-fil-A on GA-92
“This is a more convenient spot for our patients It gives us more space in our clinic and also in our reception area,” said Dr Andy, who added the space has a vibe much like the practice’s Canton location, which opened in 2022 “We are really excited about how the new office will make our patient experience even better�”
Kragor Orthodontics has built a reputation rooted in personal care, professional excellence, and genuine community connection� The practice continues to stand apart in the local dental landscape, which is increasingly shaped by corporate ownership The doctors are proud to remain family-owned and independently operated, allowing them to prioritize people over profits — and design
truly individualized care plans for children, teens, and adults�
“We’re not looking for an IPO on Wall Street,” jokes Dr� Andy� “Our investment is right here — in our patients, their families, and the community we love Our hearts are centered right, and the support is returned ”
ONE PATIENT AT A TIME
From the warm welcome at the front office to the thoughtful milestones celebrated throughout treatment, the Kragor Orthodontics team places just as much value on building relationships as they do on creating beautiful smiles�
Dr Andy’s philosophy about patient care aligns with a saying attributed to Swiss physician Paracelsus five centuries ago: “There is a whole person attached to every tooth�”
The team at Kragor Orthodontics' Woodstock location is ready to assist with all your orthodontic needs.
“I see this with many corporate offices — forgetting that there is a person attached to those teeth who has feelings and ideas about what the perfect smile can be,”
Dr� Andy explained�
“We have so many different options, and whatever we can find as the right treatment and best orthodontic option is the difference in the care you receive at a doctor-owned practice This is not one size fits all ”
The Kragor team develops smiles using metal and clear braces, clear aligners, and retainers Their modern practice houses digital imaging, 3D CBCT imaging, radiographs, and 3D scanners and printers�
For more than two years, the practice has offered a remote dental care system — DentalMonitoring — which uses advanced technology and a HIPAA-secure smartphone app to track a patient’s dental health and treatment progress from the comfort of their home�
Essentially, patients can scan their smiles anytime and anywhere and share that information with the doctors�
“Adults especially appreciate this flexibility,” Dr� Andy shared in a previous interview� “Instead of coming in for routine checkups, they can scan their smiles and send us updates through the secure app It’s efficient, it’s convenient, and it doesn’t sacrifice results�”
That thoughtful mix of modern technology and personal connection is what keeps families loyal to Kragor Orthodontics� It’s also what allows the practice to thrive — even in a market where more and more orthodontic offices are being bought by large corporations
“The culture we have developed here with our team plays a huge role in helping our
patients feel comfortable,” Dr Andy explained “Everything from operations to making sure the day-to-day treatment goes smoothly, the interaction and encouragement, the kids really get to know our assistants ”
Kragor’s team “gets invested” in the patients, young and old
“We build relationships and friendships with our patients, and we get to watch them grow and achieve major milestones in life� A major perk of my job and the team’s individual jobs is that we get to see that and feel good about their smiles,” continued Dr� Andy�
“It is really special to watch our patients grow. It’s unique to see them shape and mature as individuals while we are providing their care. It is a blessing that I love!” added Dr� Ambre�
COMMITTED TO CARE AND COMMUNITY
Kragor Orthodontics continues to offer complimentary consultations, a straightforward four-step process that helps new patients understand their options and feel confident in their care Appointments are prompt, the office is welcoming, and the team remains committed to providing the highest standard of safety and cleanliness, following all CDC and OSHA guidelines
The Kragors remain deeply connected to the community� They actively support local schools, churches, nonprofits, and youth sports teams Dr Ambre has also specialized in craniofacial treatment for children with cleft lip and palate, and both doctors are involved in their own children’s busy lives — balancing work with baseball games, serving at church, teaching, cheer practice, and family life
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
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�
Embracing Healing and Alignment
By Dr. Norman Colby
[Healthy Life] June marks the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and offers plenty to celebrate — from the longest day of the year to honoring fathers and embracing wellness� It’s a month filled with light, energy, and the perfect opportunity to focus on health and connection
The summer solstice on June 21 is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere With the sun at its highest point in the sky, we enjoy extended daylight, which encourages more time outdoors, increased physical activity, and a boost in mood thanks to natural vitamin D It’s a great time to move, stretch, and reconnect with your body
June also brings Father’s Day, a time to recognize the strength, support, and guidance that fathers provide� This is the perfect moment to encourage your dad to take care of his health, especially his spine and nervous system Whether from long work hours, weekend warrior activities, or simply the wear and tear of everyday life, chiropractic care can help fathers feel their best and stay active for the moments that matter
Interestingly, the word “June” is believed to originate from Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage and protector of women Just as Juno symbolized strength and support, chiropractic care also strengthens, supports, and protects the body’s natural function The word “chiropractic” comes from the Greek words “cheir” (hand) and “praktikos” (done), meaning “done by hand�”
This June, as we embrace longer days and the energy of the season, let’s also embrace the opportunity for healing and alignment� Whether for yourself or someone you love, chiropractic care can support a summer of strength, wellness, and vitality�
Dr. Norman Colby is a chiropractor and the owner of Woodstock Chiropractic. 1198 Buckhead Crossing, Unit F, Woodstock. 770-693-7618. WoodstockFamilyChiropractic.com
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�
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
A Deliberate Act of Kindness
By Pastor Andy Rogers
[InGood Faith] I still remember a text from my wife some years ago asking if I could find a plumber Thinking I’d been successful at fixing clogs in the past, I asked, “How do you know we need a plumber?” Her reply: “Because spaghetti and tomato shards are all over the basement floor�”
After searching for the problem, I found a quartersized hole in my cast-iron plumbing Knowing I was in over my head, I called my neighbor, a general contractor, hoping he could recommend a trusted plumber I was
surprised by his response He came over, sized up the situation, and offered to drive me to the hardware store and walk me through the repair� Two hours later, we had replaced over 30 feet of my plumbing system He refused to let me pay him for his help, saying, “That’s what neighbors are for�”
observed in how he responds to those in need He embodies Jesus Christ’s call to go above and beyond to help others�
How might you go the extra mile for someone else? What might be the blessing God has in store for you when you do? There’s only one way to find out�
Over the years, I’ve noticed that my neighbor’s good deed was not just a random act of kindness It is a pattern I have repeatedly
Rogers is lead pastor at The Way Woodstock, 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-516-0371. TheWayWoodstock.com
Andy
Sweet, Sweet Summertime
By Steven Anderson, DMD
[Healthy Life] Summer is here, which usually means most people are outside enjoying all the activities associated with warm weather� This time of year also seems to lend itself to consuming more sugar, whether in drinks and ice cream, lollipops and popsicles, or rich milk chocolate, which doesn’t last long in your hand when it’s hot outside� Unfortunately, too many sweets can wreak havoc on our health, including our teeth So, consider what you can do to reduce some of the risk factors of oral disease and tooth decay, which may result in serious health problems and financial costs in your future
Tooth decay is the most common disease in the world Left untreated, it often hurts, and the more it hurts, the more serious and involved the treatments and costs� It’s always best to see your dentist early — before experiencing pain
Bacteria in our mouths are the most common cause of tooth decay� Bacteria secrete strong acids that can erode tooth enamel and soft dentin So, how do these bacteria secrete acid? Acid is the byproduct of their digestive processes, and when bacteria “eat,” their waste product is acid�
What do bacteria eat? You guessed it, SUGAR! The bacteria in our mouths love
sugar — the real thing, not the artificial stuff Here’s a helpful shopping tip: remember “sugar-free” for your family� There are many sugar-free products your children (and you) will enjoy that don’t have an unpleasant aftertaste
Every time we eat sugar, bacteria continue to excrete the harmful acids in our mouths beyond the time of an immediate toothbrushing ritual The more we eat or drink sugar during the day, the longer the harmful acids are present and causing damage to our teeth As with most things, moderation is a good approach
What about sports drinks? Always read the label Most sports drinks contain sugar, sometimes as much as soda All sugary beverages in our diet need to be closely monitored, as they often contribute to consuming too much sugar Diet sodas also contain harmful acids that affect our teeth
Summertime is a fun season that can be enjoyed, even with the occasional sugary treat Just try to be smart about the decisions you make regarding what you and your children eat because these decisions will affect your oral health as well as your overall well-being After all, it’s your smile (or your kids’), and good dentistry should be all about you�
Dr. Steven Anderson is the owner and dentist at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb.
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
