Cherokee Life Nov-Dec 2017

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November/December 2017 | Cherokee Life

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November/December 2017 Volume 12, Issue 6

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Lee B. Garrett

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Wade Stephens V.P OF SALES AND MARKETING Travis Knight

EDITORIAL STAFF

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WHAT’S INSIDE 12 HOME It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

16 TABLE SETTINGS Settings for the perfect party 22 THEATRE FUN Arts activities abound in the county for the holidays 26 GIFT GUIDE Great places to buy presents in Cherokee County 36 BRANCHING OUT Tree farms throughout the county 40 GONE, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Woodstock woman remembers her brother’s service in Vietnam

LaTria Garnigan

EDITOR Rebecca Johnston

FROM THE EDITOR

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NEWS AND NOTEWORTHY

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CONTRIBUTORS

FROM THE DIRECTOR

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Sampson Jenkins, Kayla Elder, Madison Hogan

HIGHLIGHTS

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PHOTOGRAPHER

SCENE

REFLECTIONS

Erin Gray Cantrell

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LAYOUT AND DESIGN

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LaTria Garnigan, Mark Wallace Maguire

PROOFREADER Nicole Price

ON THE COVER:

Photo by Kelly Norton Photography

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Main Street Canton Group Page Mid City Pharmacy North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists Northside Cherokee Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Northside Hospital - Cherokee Northside Phycicans Surgical Associates Northside Vascular Surgery Outlet Shops of Atlanta Pinnacle Orthopaedics Plastic Surgery Center of The South Provino’s Reinhardt University Reinhardt University - Falany Performaning Salon • Spa Venessa Shop Cherokee Soleil Laurel Canyon Southeast Swimwear Superior Plumbing Sweet River Boutique Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents Wellstar Williamson Bros BBQ Woodstock Ballet Woodstock Downtown Development Woodstock Funeral Home

ADVERTISING STAFF ADVERTISING MANAGER Paula Milton

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 770-Arborist Antiques By Samson & Delia Aqua Guard Basements Brumby Chair Company Canterfield of Kennesaw Canton Theatre Canton Tire and Wheel Carriage Kia of Woodstock Chamberhouse Furniture Cherokee Community Chorale Cherokee County Arts Council Cherokee County Farm Bureau Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta City of Canton Darby Funeral Home Downtown Canton Fashion Cupcake Fowler Electric Fox Tale Book Shop Freight Kitchen Frosty Frog Creamery & Café Funk Heritage Center Horizon at Laurel Canyon Image Maids Key’s Jewelery Lavida Massage Leaning Ladder

Mark Wallace Maguire

ASST. DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES

in every issue

8 SPICE Pies for the holidays

DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES

Tara Guest 35 35 39 15 33 52 19 43 31 45 20 5 50 46 38 29 7 47 49 29 11 2 25 32 13 14

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Becky Opitz Ginny Hrushka, Tracy Hoopingarner, Jill Abbott

GRAPHICS COORDINATOR Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jennifer Hall

PRODUCTION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett INFORMATION Cherokee Life is published six times a year by the Cherokee Tribune and distributed to more than 20,000 homes and businesses.

To subscribe, email circulation@ cherokeelifemagazine.com or call 770.795.5001 To advertise, contact Paula Milton at 770.905.4546 Please send all editorial correspondence to mmaguire@cherokeelifemagazine.com

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5 FROM THE EDITOR

By Rebecca Johnston

The most precious ingredient

Cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Sage, rosemary and thyme.

The rich smell of roast turkey and the seductive taste of gingerbread cookies.

Eggnog, oyster dressing, pecan pie and sweet potato casserole. Holiday traditions that bind a family together and keep them close.

Memories of holidays past are brought to mind by the smells and tastes of this special time of year.

Like many Southerners born and bred, I come from a long line of great cooks.

My grandmother Wheeler baked the best biscuits, pies and cakes imaginable. My mother was a wonderful cook who took pride in her turkey dressing and array of side dishes.

I loved my grandmother’s pumpkin pie recipe and it has a special place in my recipe file. She always used fresh pumpkin, roasted in the oven, then mixed with spices and sugar. My mother followed the same recipe, carrying on the tradition that filled our house with the smell of holiday baking.

But the ingredient with which my mother and my grandmother truly imbued the holidays was love. Every dish they served, every table they set, was done with love. That is what makes this time of year so special. Love of family, of friends, and love of those who need a little help at this time of year.

To be reminded of those times and those tenents is important in the world we live in today.

I think many of us are saddened by the contentious discourse and the hate-filled rhetoric we hear around us these days, the abandonment of human kindness and caring we see too frequently in the world.

We hunger for a better time and place, for the small-town values many of us grew up with, the belief that neighbor should help neighbor, that it is better to give than to receive, and that everyone is our neighbor.

During November and December we have a chance to reunite with the best in our world and in ourselves, to give thanks for what we have and to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

I see examples of it throughout our community, that desire to help others, to make the holidays more about giving. Police

officers shopping with children in need, residents giving up their own Thanksgiving dinner to make one for those who might not eat that day, or who would have to eat alone. Toy drives to make sure children whose parents can’t afford gifts this season find something to open under their tree on Christmas morning.

I always remember the time I was in the Service League of Cherokee County and delivered Christmas to a single mom living in a Canton housing project. The living room was almost bare, but clean, the kitchen cupboards empty.

When my husband and I carried in bags of groceries, tears began to well in her eyes. When she saw what the bags contained, she began to cry in earnest and said “Eggs, even eggs.” That always stuck with me, that what I take for granted, one of the cheapest items on my grocery list, was a luxury for her and her family.

This holiday as we stir up our favorite cookie recipe and shop for our family, my holiday wish is that we also take time to make it a holiday tradition to do something nice for someone in need in our community.

Christmas memories come in many forms. The warm childhood remembrances of gathering around the table for that special feast.

The times that maybe were a little harder for our families, when we had just lost a loved one, or a job, or someone couldn’t make it home, perhaps because they were fighting for our country overseas. The times when we all could be together.

I wish for you the most merry and bright holidays ever, seasoned with love and leavened with kindness, filled with peace on earth, good will to all.

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6 [NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]

Finding local flavors on North Street After making its summer debut on North Street in August, Local on North is a bustle of “new American” flavors, live music and part of a revitalization coming to the northern side of downtown.

Nestled next to downtown newcomers Horizon Training Center and right by new Southernite Interiors, this restaurant is the perfect taste of fresh taste and modern business in the historic district.

Co-owners and married couple Georganne Rose and Salem Makhlouf said they renovated the historic brick building located at 170 North Street.

The seasoned restaurateurs, who opened The Real Fix Pizzeria in downtown Roswell in 2015, said they love Canton and the friendly people they’ve met during their remodeling on North Street.

“I know Roswell 10 years ago—that’s how Canton is right now, so the vision is that downtown Canton becomes the new downtown Roswell in the next couple years,” Makhlouf said. “So we just want to get there before everyone else gets there.”

The restaurant features well-known American dishes with a twist, including a

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Canton native John Brooke has released a book recounting the tales of old in Cherokee County in August that already sold out the first printing. “Sagas of Stamp Creek and Sutalee,” features various stories from the area.

“Along the way I have kept everything pretty well up in my head and have written down very little. It is just from my memory. I will admit to having checked a few things,” Brooke said. “The book portrays what traditions were like living then starting from the time the settlers came in here about 1832 to 1834.”

The collection of stories occurred in the area of Stamp Creek and Sutalee of Cherokee County from around 1830 to 1950. They present a picture of survival that was dependent on the determination of those who lived in the area.

“Along the way, I have experienced these things as I grew up here. When mules were the only source of power for farming to cultivate the crops, the future tractors, the steam engines were powering saw mills — there was a lot of hard work and long hours. A lot of people were impoverished in the area, but they managed to have something to eat if they were on the farm,” he said.

The reader will enjoy stories of government bureaucrats who acted in a way contrary to what was authorized by Congress, Al Capone’s contacts in the area and an article in the St. Louis Post Dispatch that dealt with illegal whiskey sales, among many other interesting tales.

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lemon chicken plate, pulled pork tacos, mussels, risotto, cumin crusted tender pork, lamb shank, steaks and pizzas.

“For Thursday through Sunday there will be a special that we’ll run through the weekend, so if people come eat there all the time, they’ll have something new they can try,” Rose said.

Rose said the plate she was most excited about were the crab cakes, because the restaurant’s chef worked in Nantucket perfecting the dish.

“His crab cake is like none other that I’ve ever had,” she said. “It’s probably perfect, I would say.”

Inside, customers get a taste of a farmhouse industrial style in a dining area fit to seat a little more than 100 people, with two community tables included, Rose said.

Though she hoped to open in January 2017, Rose said the “complete restoration project” of the former flower shop took longer than expected. The building hadn’t run on power for years and was missing a water meter, but she said they wanted to “do it right” and bring back the historic

establishment’s “original beauty.”

“We kept most of the original stuff that we could,” she said. “We didn’t change the hardwood floor at all. We didn’t change the ceiling, so we tried to keep it as true to the building as it is.”

At the bar, visitors can stay late and enjoy small plates after dinner service stops, Rose said. Live music is played every Friday and Saturday night after dinner, she said.

“Everything closes at 9 p.m., you can’t find anything to eat even on the weekends,” she said. “(We’ll be open) late for the bar on the weekend and will be open for Sundays for sure, seven days a week.”

Rose said she and her husband are “really people driven” and want customers to know they work as a team with their employees to “make sure everyone’s made to feel important here.”

“I’ve learned over the last few years, if you’re not in this because of the people, then you’re not in it for the right reasons,” she said. “And that’s customers and employees, that’s really what it’s about.”

Magazine director publishes second novel in series

[NEWS

Cherokee Life Director Mark Wallace Maguire announced the release of his second novel in the “Alexandria Rising Chronicles” series.

Alexandria Rising was published in October 2016 and its sequel, “Alexandria Reborn,” was published in August. Maguire cites reader interest and reviews as the prompt for him to publish both books in less than a year.

“I was surprised at the strong response from readers who demanded a sequel as soon as possible,” said Maguire, who was nominated for a Georgia Author of The Year and Independent Author of the Year awards for “Alexandria Rising.” “While I was thinking the book would be well received by the male audience, I was pleased at the interest and support from the female audience as well.”

The book has also received strong reviews from dozens of websites, blogs and book reviewers at home and around the globe.

Maguire has spoken at events throughout Cheorkee including ‘A Novel Idea’ in Canton.

The series, according to Maguire, is on track to publish a third installment in 2018.

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8 [SPICE]

sweet success

Local cook shares dessert secrets Written by Rebecca Johnston | Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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No one does pies and cakes better than Tina Kell, who whips up dozens of tasty and popular desserts for her family’s restaurants in downtown Canton each week.

When it comes to the holidays Kell also knows a thing or two about making sure her family gatherings have plenty of sweets to please the crowd.

“I have always collected cookbooks, I have about 500 that I have collected in the 47 years I have been married,” Kell said. “We have always been a family about food. Now with four grandchildren for Thanksgiving and Christmas, I ask them what they want and make sure to include their requests.”

Kell said her family holiday dessert table annually features a pumpkin pie, a cherry pie and that she always does triple chocolate mousse because it is such a family favorite. Christmas isn’t complete without a selection of cookies she bakes up to share.

Since she is from a family of Swedish descent who always liked to cook, a love of food is in her and her family’s genes. Her grandmother on her father’s side owned a restaurant in Minnesota and baked all her own bread and her father cooked for a lumber camp.

Her two sons, Zach Kell and Josh Kell, familiar faces at the family’s restaurants, Goin Coastal, Queenie’s and Downtown Kitchen are carrying on the family tradition, one they learned at their mother’s table. Queenie’s is named for the matriarch of the Kell family.

“All of Zach and Josh’s friends came to our house when they were growing up on Sundays, and we always cooked at home,” she said.

Nowadays Tina, who lives in the Woodmont community where she has made her home for the last nine years with husband Bill, enjoys trying her hand at dessert recipes designed to please a crowd at the restaurant or at home.

Using her extensive library of cookbooks, she chose a Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Pie recipe and a Christmas Coconut Cake to take center state this holiday.

“Because we only do old-fashioned Southern desserts, I researched and decided to do a sweet potato pie as I think it is typical od true Southern dinners,” Kell said. “And everything I found is that you can’t have Christmas in the South without a coconut cake.”

Tina’s take on the traditional Christmas sweet features custard between the layers and larger flake coconut on top.

For her potato pie, which makes a flavorful alternative to the ususal pumpkin filling, she uses fresh orange fleshed sweet potatos and puts them through a potato ricer to remove the pulp.

Following are her own recipes along with her special cooking tips to make your holidays delicious.

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Queenie’s Christmas Coconut Cake Cake • 2 cups sugar • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened • 4 large eggs, room temp • 3 cups cake flour • 1 Tbsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 cup milk • 1/2 cup coconut milk(shake can before you measure) • 1 tsp vanilla • 1/2 tsp coconut extract Coconut Filling • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/4 cup cornstarch • 1/8 tsp salt • 4 large egg yolks, room temp • 1 cup half & half • 1 cup coconut milk(shake can before you measure) • 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter • 1 tsp vanilla • 1/4 tsp coconut extract • Additional ingredient - 1 cup heavy cream Coconut Frosting • 3 cups heavy cram • 1 tsp vanilla • 1/2 tsp coconut extract • 1/3 cup sugar Garnish-wide shaved coconut flakes-toasted 1. Prepare the coconut filling so it can cool. Whisk together sugar, cornstarch and salt in a heavy saucepan. Whisk egg yolks, 1/2 & 1/2 and the coconut milk in a bowl. Gradually whisk egg mixture into the sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 6 to 7 minutes or just until the mixture starts to bubble. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute more and then remove from the heat.

2. Whisk the flaked coconut and butter, vanilla and coconut extract into the sugar egg mixture. Transfer to a bowl and place a sheet of plastic wrap directly on the mixture. This will prevent a film forming on the custard as it cools. Let stand for 30 minutes or place in the frig to chill while cake is being baked.

3. Making the cake. Preheat oven 350.

Beat 1 cup butter at medium speed with mixer until creamy.

Gradually add 2 cups sugar beating until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time beating just until blended after each addition.

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10 4. Stir together the cake flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl stir together the milk and coconut milk. Add flour mixture to the butter mixture and alternate with the milk mixture. Begin and end with the flour. Beat at low speed just until blended. Stir in the vanilla & the coconut extract. Spoon the batter into two 9-inch cake pans. I spray my pan lightly with Pam and then line with a circle of parchment paper. If you don’t want to do this just grease and flour your cake pans.

5. Bake for 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on a wire rack for at lease an hour.

6. When you are ready to assemble your cake the cakes should be completely cool and the custard is cold. I make my cakes and custard the day before and put together when I want to serve.

7. Beat 1 cup heavy cream at high speed of a hand mixer until stiff. Gently fold into the custard.

8. To assemble the cake split each layer in half with a serrated knife or dental floss . You will end up with four layers. Place your first layer on serving plater, cut side up, and spread with 1 1/3 cup of custard filling. Repeat with remaining layers and filling ending with final cake layer cut side down. Frost with the frosting and top with toasted coconut flakes Coconut Frosting Beat 3 cups heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla and 1/2 tsp coconut extract with mixer at medium to high speed for 2 minutes or until soft. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar

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11 beating for 2 minutes or until stiff peaks form.

Queenie’s Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Pie • • • • • • • • •

2 large orange fleshed sweet potatoes - about 1 3/4 lbs 1/2 cup sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1/4 cup half and half 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp fresh ground nutmeg 7 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup brown sugar Your favorite 9 inch pie crust

Roast your sweet potatoes the day before or early in the day in an oven at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until they are really soft when you squeeze them. Once they are cool peel them and either put them in a food processor and mix

until they are very smooth. I prefer to use a potato ricer.

Measure 2 1/2 cups of the puree into a mixing bowl. Add sugar, eggs, half and half, cinnamon nutmeg, butter & brown sugar.

Mix until smooth and pour into your pie crust.

Place on a baking sheet and bake in a 350 degree oven until the filling is almost set with a little jiggle in the center, about 1 hour. Cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve with your favorite whipped cream (it’s fun to add little maple syrup or sorghum to your whipped cream) *Make sure you pinch strips of aluminum foil around the edge of crust so it does not burn or get to dark while cooking. | 6 servings

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Deck the Halls

Tips for decorating the tree this holiday season

By Rebecca Johnston

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he Christmas tree has its roots deep in history and today is the centerpiece of most holiday celebrations.

The first mention of Christmas trees is from the early 1500s and by the 17th century the evergreens were common in homes in countries such as Germany and Austria.

Christmas trees were introduced in the United States in the 1800s and today more than 25 million real trees are sold in the United States to grace living rooms around the country.

Whether your tree is real or artificial, the right decorating techniques can make your tree the perfect seasonal focus.

Christine Blight of Christine’s Interior in Woodstock says this year is the time to pull out all the stops in decorating the tree, and to use the holidays to find new meaning in life.

“Our theme this year is ‘Bring Back the Colors and Happiness,’ to bring back what we had when we were children. To go back to the simpler times, blended with today’s lifestyle. To remind us that we need to slow down and be happy,” Blight said.

The first step, and the one that sets the stage for a perfect tree, is adding the lights. Illuminating your Christmas tree from the inside out will give it the most dramatic look. Start at the base of the trunk and work your way up, wrapping lights around every major branch, moving from the trunk to the tip and back.

Popular lights to choose from include traditional incandescent lights, available in a variety of sizes and colors. If you are using a live tree, they help release the scent of the evergreen into the room. LED lights are a newer type of Christmas tree lights that are more expensive, but safer.

Next comes the garland, whether beads, tinsel, ribbon, or even strings of popcorn are your preference. There is no set way to add garland, as you can start from the top of tree and swag it down, or start from the bottom. Whether you sway it, or just it in long strands from top to bottom like a maypole, is a personal preference. Some people like to combine materials, such as strands of ornaments with bows, or ribbons with beads for a fuller look.

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14 The color scheme is another personal preference. Traditional reds and greens are perhaps the most popular, but just as Christmas trees come in many sizes, they can also be decorated in many different color schemes. Perhaps you have some favorite heirloom ornaments that are gold or silver and you want to do your entire tree with a metallic look. That can make a stunning display.

Trees that make use of natural materials, such as feathers and pinecones, are nice additions for rustic or country décor.

Blight is using reds, gold and turquoise mixed in with what she calls organic flair.

“We love using dried hydrangeas and seeded eucalyptus, things to ground the tree. We are actually even bringing back colored lights,” she said.

And she suggests adding in items such as a doll collection, or baby toys, to give the tree a personal look.

“We are bringing in larger objects, even everyday articles, such as cookie cutters, vintage skates and larger pieces,” the wellknow decorator said. “We are finding things that don’t have purpose anymore, but make us remember and help us go back to the past.”

The final touch on the tree is the tree topper, which can be a traditional angel or a bow or even a special object.

“We are putting a child’s rocker as a tree topper,” Blight said of her plans for this year.

Whatever you do, make sure to enjoy the process and get ready to share your results with family and friends for a festive holiday season.

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15 BEST OF

CHEROKEE It’s that time of year again.

Time to get your votes in for the Best of Cherokee!

Visit www.cherokeelifemagazine.com and click on the link to place your vote in over a dozen categories.

Winners will be announced in our January 2018 issue!

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set the table Written by Rebecca Johnston s Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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Fall events and holiday gatherings are the perfect times to bring out your most beloved china, crystal and silver and set a table that reflects your family today, recalls past repasts and makes happy memories for the future.

Whether it is a favorite pattern that has been in the family for generations, or the newest bride’s wedding china and accessories, this is the perfect time of year to shine it up and present the most beautiful table imaginable.

A Thanksgiving feast, Christmas dinner or an intimate gathering for New Year’s are all occasions to sparkle and that special table setting can set the stage for a memorable experience for guests and family.

Woodland by Spode offers a design rooted in the traditions of hunting and sets a lovely table for Thanksgiving or any autumnal occasion. Central to the charm of the pattern are the striking studies of different birds and animals framed by the British Flowers border which dates back to 1831. Pair Woodland with rustic linens, such as this hand-crocheted place mat and gold linen napkin. Pewter helps set the hunt scene, seen here in the napkin ring and goblet. Cape Cod glassware with its rings of diamond hobnails adds just the right touch of sparkle. A simple sterling silverware pattern, such as Towle Rambler Rose provides a counterpoint to the rich china. Antique and matching serving pieces complete the tablescape.

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19 wrapped up in seasonal colors and themes that children of all ages will find a delight. Christmas Tree china by Spode offers infinite possibilities with a variety of complimentary pieces, including Spode crystal and Christmas Tree flatware to enhance your holiday. This whimsical design completes your holiday table. Seen here, the flatware, with its embossed tree design is set off beautifully by a red linen hemstitched napkin and white Battenburg lace placemat. A red charger and Spode Christmas Tree Garland square salad plate help dress up the look. Placecards always add a nice touch at the holidays.

New Year’s Eve is one of the most festive evenings of the season and a dinner party is the ideal opportunity to polish off your best in silver, china and crystal. Setting a sparkling table here are Carlyle fine bone china by Royal Doulton, a trio in the Waterford Lismore crystal stemware pattern, including a champagne flute to toast the new year, and the regal King Richard sterling silver flatware by Towle. Elegant matching linen placemats and napkins and sterling silver charger and accessories complete the look. Light the candles and get out the bubbly.

For those who have antique family china and silver in their cabinets, the holidays offer many occasions to use those precious pieces. Greens and golds are universal and work well throughout the season from Thanksgiving to New Year’s for a beautiful table. Haviland china, an antique silver plate pattern and a silver goblet make a stunning display.

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Hark the Herald,

By Madison Hogan uddy said it best in the 2003 joyful Christmas film “Elf”— “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”

Holiday musicals, carols, choirs and plays are some of the greatest activities to do this time of season, and Cherokee County has plenty to choose from.

At Elm Street Cultural Arts Village in Woodstock, check out mini actors in the children’s play, “Elf, Jr. the Musical” from November 10 to 12 or the organization’s annual “A Christmas Carol” from December 8 to 24.

Executive Director Christopher Brazelton said “Elf, Jr. the Musical” is treated like a mainstage production done by kids for kids. Modeled after the Christmas movie staring Will Farrell, “Elf,” the musical preformed for the first time at Elm Street will feature the same beloved character, Buddy, who parades around eating way too much sugar.

“We’ve raised the bar for our kids,” he said. “We expect more of them, not less.” Patrons will also get a new look at the traditional take on “A Christmas Carol,” Brazelton said; Elm Street has shown the production for years each Christmas, but this season will feature the Broadway musical production.

“It will be more musical than it has been in past years,” he said. “But it is Scrooge being visited by several ghosts and the typical story if you

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will.”

While both shows are a great time to gather with families and friends, Brazelton said each production will include activities that will engage audiences with the stories rather than just watching a play.

“With ‘A Christmas Carol’ we’ll have a canned food drive (and) with ‘Elf, Jr.’ we’re having a toy drive,” he said. “Both of these shows in particular embody the spirit of what that engagement looks like in the community, especially around the holiday season.”

Coming to a production at Elm Street for the holidays is a great way to see local talent and partake in something a little more special, Brazelton said.

“It’s great that we get to showcase the local talent and so many times people think they have to worry about going to the Fox or the Alliance, which are great theaters, but really a lot of this good quality entertainment is in their backyard, and not only that but its rooted in their community.”

For tickets and times, log onto www.elmstreetarts.org.

If choirs are more your thing, the Cherokee Chorale will celebrate its 30th anniversary at their yearly Christmas Concert. Guests can attend to listen to two pieces, at 5 p.m. Dec. 9 and 3 p.m. Dec. 10 at Canton First United Methodist Church, Public Relations Director Debbie Weeks said.

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Local Angels Sing “We’re doing the Christmas portion of Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ and we’re also doing a piece that was written for us five years ago for our 25th anniversary. It’s called Glorious Night, by Joan Kingston,” she said.

What makes the chorale special is that it appeals to the masses, with singers ranging from high schoolers to senior citizens, and values community involvement, Weeks said. The chorale supports education in the county with scholarships and donations, while also singing with school choirs, she said.

Instead of having the same director for each concert, Weeks said the chorale usually switches it up.

“Generally we have a new conductor for each piece at each concert we do,” she said. “We do three every year and we have different conductors that we hire that are all local and talented. That makes part of our chorale a little different and I think what makes it unique and what brings people back.”

Children of all ages and their families are encouraged to come, Weeks said. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for students and can be purchased at the doors, from choir members, Cherokee County Arts Center, Ball Ground Pharmacy, Chamberhouse, Three Sisters Gifts and Home Accents, FoxTale Book Shoppe and Jasper Drug Store, she said.

Reinhardt University will also put on its annual Christmas concerts from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3. Dr. Fredrick Tarrant, dean of the university’s School of Performing Arts, said the first Christmas concert at the Falany Performing Arts Center in 2003 expanded to five concerts during four days after patrons asked for more.

The Reinhardt Symphonic Winds, Concert Choir and Chamber Singers will be the prime performers at the concerts, with small instrumental ensembles featured throughout, he said.

“The Christmas Concert series is presented by the School of Performing Arts as a gift of holiday cheer to the community and to the families of our students,” he said. “It is special because it brings every student in school together to perform en masse, and the audience gets to sing along with the students for Christmas carols.”

Tickets go on sale to the general public Oct. 1, Tarrant, and guests can order them online at http://reinhardt.tix.com/Schedule.aspx?OrgNum=314&framed=true.

“We believe this tradition is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together in a spirit of joy and expectation as we approach the Christmas holiday,” he said. “The concerts are filled with great music, and they are moving and fun experiences for everyone present.”

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24 FROM THE DIRECTOR

BY MARK WALLACE MAGUIRE

The South’s forgotten war… and why it matters today

My son Patrick was adamant about getting snacks out of the car.

I mean really adamant.

We had just arrived at our motel in Gaffney, S.C. after a four hour drive. I was tired. We were leaving in less than an hour to attend “The Night Before Kings Mountain.” Presented

by The Overmountain Victory Trail Association, the dramatic rendition was taking place at Cowpens National Battlefield and would showcase the timeline leading up to Kings Mountain.

It was going to be a dynamic night, so I wanted to rest for a few minutes.

I wanted a quick nap and caffeine.

I wanted to quasi-refresh as much as a dad can with an excited 11-year-old in tow.

So, I acquiesced. Let him go to the car. Reminded him at least twice, “Please do not lock the keys in the car.” He grabbed the room key, the car keys and happily went on his way.

Fifteen minutes later he was back. And happy. With snacks.

He also mentioned he met some new friends in the motel lobby who were dressed in colonialist attire and were off to Cowpens to participate in the same event we were going to shortly.

Patrick had his snacks. I had a spot of tea and we were soon travelling on a highway soaked in the buttery sunlight of an early October evening, the light touching the foothills and dusting the bottoms of low flying clouds. The familiar brown national park signs began popping up in the high grass, signaling that we were indeed almost to our destination.

And while we were both interested in witnessing the dramatic rendition, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. These types of events are, when good, the best. They drive you to discover more. To learn more. To dig more into the history and the culture related to the event. When they’re bad, well, they drive you to leave. As soon as possible.

This event transcended the good category and simply was

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Above, Hollis Posey demonstrates his gear to Patrick Maguire. Below, the Sons Of Liberty perform. grand.

When we arrived we were greeted by Cay B. Posey from Cary, N.C. whom Patrick had met in the lobby earlier. She was welcoming and enthused to meet Patrick’s father. She explained her husband, Hollis, was with the re-enactors, then urged us to get a seat at the front.

The event began with the melodic strains of The Sons of Liberty trio who were performing songs on fiddle and vocals from the Revoluntionary Era and, shortly afterwards, with some perfunctory remarks from the parks service, the show began.

I won’t give you the play-by-play of the show. But it was marvelous. The group really brought the weeks before the battle to life. They made history real and relevant.

Afterwards, we chatted with the group, Patrick had his photo taken and, most impressively, Hollis devoted many minutes of his time to explaining his gear to us, including his gorgeous rifle and ammunition. The following day we attended the Battle at King’s Mountain anniversary ceremony where the Overmountain Men were joined by throngs of D.A.R. members, dozens of other re-enactors and hundreds of Americans who came out to honor the day and participate in the activities.

And despite a steady drizzle that started around noon, it was a prime day for father-son memories. The activities, the living history events and the ceremonies were impressive. But, I also relished the day and the weekend as a whole for another reason: This was a huge crowd full of pride and vigor.

And, despite our politics, backgrounds or paychecks, we were there for one reason: To celebrate and honor those who fought for our freedom from under the thumb of British oppression.

In other words, it was a welcome refreshment from the drudgery of the current news cycle and the vitriol of social media.

Patrick and I talked on the way home. I told him that The Revolutionary War didn’t solve all the problems and it would be a long time before everyone was seen as created equal, but it was a start. Then he reminded me that it was not only a start for our country, but it inspired other countries as well and continues to today.

That’s worth celebrating.

As we arrive on Veteran’s Day and segue to Thanksgiving, I hope you all find some common ground. To paraphrase the cliché, America’s not perfect, but it’s the best we’ve created so far. Despite our differences, I hope that is something we can celebrate together.

Note: You can learn more about The Overmountain Victory Trail Association is a non-profit group of volunteers who celebrate and bring to life the stories of the Overmountain Men who were the volunteers in the Revolutionary War who came over the mountains from North Carolina, Virginia and what is now parts of Tennessee and Kentucky. You can discover more about them at www.ovta.org

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Holiday Catering Menu Ham & Turkey (3 oz. each) • Homemade Dressing • Giblet Gravy Green Beans • Cranberry Sauce • Dinner Rolls • Pecan Pie Tea – Lemonade – Ice • Paper Products Pick Up $11.50 per person (Min. 15 ppl) • Delivery $12.65 per person (Min. 25 ppl) Full Service $13.75 per person (Min. 75 ppl)

Holiday Take Out Special Whole Smoked Turkey • ½ Gallon Giblet Gravy • Gallon Dressing

$65.95

1600 Marietta Hwy. Canton, GA 30115

770-345-9067

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Written and photographed by Cherokee Life staff

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Chamberhouse 145 West Main Street Canton (770) 479-9115 www.chamberhouse.net Chamberhouse in historic downtown Canton is the local source for Pandora, Vera Bradley, Tervis Tumblers, Arthur Court, Tyler Candles, Spartina 449, Old World Christmas, Ginger Snaps, Camille, Susan Shaw and more.

The newly designed shop offers a wide variety of gifts, accessories, and home accents. Customers are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your shopping list, and you might just find a little something for yourself.

New True North Coolers margarita and wine glasses are now available at Chamberhouse. These kitchen grade stainless steel cups keep your drink cold for 24-plus hours.

Also new are Duke Cannon Supply Co. products, now available at Chamberhouse Fine Gifts & Home DĂŠcor.

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28 Perched 275 Gilmer Ferry Road Ball Ground 770-891-4506 www.facebook.com/ShopPerched/ Perched is the latest clothing and gift boutique opened

by Amanda Topper, owner of Fashion Cupcake in Woodstock. Located in historic downtown Ball Ground, her store is filled with great gift ideas, home décor and accessories, and women’s and children’s fashions. Perched got its name from the time a small bird perched on a railing at Topper’s home, bringing a message of hope after she had lost a pet.

Customers love browsing Perched for candles and luxury beauty and bath gifts. Seasonal offerings such as sequined zipper bags, pillows and mugs are available.

Amanda can help choose that special outfit or clothing piece that is sure to be a hit.

Leaning Ladder Premium Olive Oils and Vinegars 105 E Main Street Woodstock 678-401-2609 www.leaningladderoliveoil.com

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The Leaning Ladder is brimming over with gift ideas for those who like to cook, or who just love to eat. From premium infused olive oils to gourmet specialty oils, homemade pasta, soups and soup mixes, or jams and jellies, this Tasting Boutique located in historic downtown Woodstock on the Park at City Center has something for every taste.

For those who are not sure what to choose from the well-stocked shelves of this enticing space, the owners can design a custom gift basket to fit any gift budget and have it ready in no time. You can even call ahead and they will have it ready when you come in. They can throw some spice rubs into the mix, along with a cookbook, and some crackers to serve your favorite creation on.

For those who want something really special, you can sign your favorite cook up for one or more of their cooking classes.

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29 Unique gifts More than just an antique store!

Antique Phonograph repairs est. 1986

8578 Main Street • Woodstock, GA 30188 770-516-4000

Store Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm • Closed Sundays and Mondays

FoxTale Book Shoppe Best Bookstore in Atlanta!

Bring in this ad and get 20% off your first visit.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires12/24/17.

BOOK SIGNINGS • A WIDE SELECTION OF AUTOGRAPHED TITLES WRITING CLASSES • BOOKS FOR ALL AGES • UNIQUE MERCHANDISE CUTE GIFT IDEAS • GIFT CARDS • A COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE People come from near and far to visit Woodstock’s little gem, FoxTale Book Shoppe, most often compared to that “cute little bookstore in You’ve Got Mail.” Experience it for yourself, and see why everyone raves about the almost-famous FoxTale!

105 East Main Street, #138 • Woodstock, GA 30188

LEANING LADDER OLIVE OIL Located on Woodstock City Park directly behind the gazebo 105 E. Main Street, Suite 126 Woodstock, GA 30188 678-401-2609 leaningladderoliveoil.com leaning ladderoliveoil@gmail.com

Always the perfect gift Speciality foods and retail

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world Custom Gift Baskets (Personal & Corporate)

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Cherokee Chorale’s Christmas Concert Presents:

Handel’s Messiah & Glorious Night Conducted by Donald Stafford

Saturday, December 9th at 5pm Sunday, December 10th at 3pm WWW .CHEROKEECHORALE.ORG

Tickets: Adults $12 • Students $6 Tickets sold at the door, by members, and various businesses. Visit our website for more information.

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Southernite Interiors 196 North Street Canton (678) 880-6357 https://www.facebook.com/southerniteinteriors/ Home sweet home doesn’t ring truer anywhere else than Southernite Interiors in downtown Canton. The newest furniture, home décor and gifts shop will celebrate its first winter on North Street.

In the store, customers will find rugs, lamps, furniture, lighting, accessories and gifts in addition to owner Ella Huysamen’s décor and design services for your home.

This gift-giving season, local lovers will lavish over Canton candles, chalkboard cutting boards resembling the peach state and even Georgia-shaped signs customizable with any town, saying or destination at your request.

If your recipient is more hands-on, sign them up for a paint workshop in the store with Miss Mustard Seeds Milk Paint.

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32 B. Loved 191 E Main Street Canton (770) 704-7447 https://www.facebook.com/shopbloved/ Downtown Canton’s B. Loved boutique has more than just good looks and southern charm—the women’s clothing and home décor shop offers everything a fashion-forward Southerner needs. From Free People sweaters to classic corduroy flares to rustic signs and drawer knobs, there’s a bit of home in each piece.

Cozy flannels and leather boats are the go-to seasonal buys, according to owner Mandy Spell, but catching a whiff of a B. Loved candle when you walk in the door might make you stuff a stocking with several different scents.

B. Loved candles come in Pound Cake, Citrus Grove, Wild Currant & Thyme Tonic and Frost on the Pumpkins scents. Be sure to check out other accessories, such as leather totes, handmade jewelry and B. Loved hats.

Shopping for a mini Southerner? Check out Little B Love right around the corner. cherokee ballet theatre presents

The

Nutcracker 2017

falany performing arts center at reinhardt university Thursday, December 14th at 7PM Friday, December 15th at 7PM Saturday, December 16th at 2PM

admission $16/adults $12/students for tickets call The Woodstock School of Ballet: 770-928-3966

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33 Spirited Boutiques 8670 Main Street Suite 2 Woodstock, GA 30188 (678) 214-5304 https://www.facebook.com /spiritedwoodstock/ Downtown Woodstock has more than just a women’s boutique, but a spirit that lives within all of the unique jewelry, bohemian clothing and multitude of fragrances, candles and accessories.

Spirited Boutiques began in 2014 when Spirit Lala, the owner of the boutiques launched three stores that embody her spirit and artwork in all of the merchandise sold.

The Spirited Way is what the boutique employees call the feeling that one gets when wearing a piece of Lala’s artwork and the welcome customers get when they walk through the door.

Each piece of jewelry and many pieces of clothing offered at Spirited are pieces of Lala as artwork from her paintings are

infused in the merchandise sold. The boutique also offers popular illume fragrances, candles, lotions, perfumes and diffusers.

Those wanting to grab a fun and unique gift for their significant other can do so at Spirited during the holidays with the leisure of free refreshments and snacks.

Wine and mimosas are served after 5 p.m. for most holiday specials.

Two Locations Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Dr. Jamie Rollins, Dr. Shalini Shah, and Dr. Nancy Doelling, offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle.

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Offers: • Exceptional Care: Board-certified physicians. Attentive & complete care for children birth - 18.

• Timely Access: Same-day appointments available. Shorter wait times.

• Efficient Follow-up: Timely feedback and reports. Next day test results available.

Holly Springs 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220 Holly Springs, GA 30115

Call for an appointment 678-388-5485

Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189 Northside/Dawson Imaging

Call for an appointment 770-852-7720

Visit Us at NorthsideCherokeePediatrics.com Exit 11 (Sixes Road)

HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE LAKE

Jamie Rollins, M.D.

Shalini Shah, M.D. Ros wel l Rd .

Nancy Doelling, M.D.

J

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Sweet River, Rough River Outfitters 8636 Main Street Woodstock, GA 30188 (678) 324-8340 https://www.facebook.com/shopsweetriverofwoodstock/ One of the newest additions to downtown Woodstock, Sweet River, Rough River is the perfect place to buy that special man trendy apparel, hats and accessories for the holiday season.

The new outfitter opened its doors

October of last year and is heading into the holiday season with many sales, and styles and brands of clothing for women, men and children, as well as custom monogramming, embroidery and accessories.

Owner of Sweet River Rough River Tiffany Miller began her business in her own home offering custom monogramming for other businesses, but quickly learned she had a knack for retail.

Popular brands such as Vera Bradley, Spartina, Simply Southern, Kate Spade, Southern Tide, Vineyard Vines, Lenny

Dean’s Store 8588 Main Street Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 924-0406 https://www.facebook.com/ pages/DeansStore/121369324542660

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A significant piece of Woodstock history, Dean’s Store, which has sat on Main Street for 111 years and is now the city’s vistors center, offers residents locally made items for all to enjoy.

Whether it’s a diverse selection of condiments made by T. Dean, canned vegetables from Merrililys or tasty grits from Gayla’s Grits, the general store has much to offer. The popular store also offers a variety of Woodstock apparel including T-shirts, glasses and much more. Books about the histo-

and Eva are only a few of the many clothing lines the store has to offer. The boutique and outfitter also caters to four legged friends and has many vibrant accessories for dogs.

With a great selection of game day apparel, countless deals for the holiday season and helpful employees to dress any occasion, Sweet River, Rough River is the location for any occasion in Woodstock.

ry of the area and local historical holiday ornaments are also on sale at the center.

Dean’s Store was recently purchased by the city of Woodstock and has served as Woodstock Visitors Center since 2001. The popular store will continue to serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors from all over.

Dean’s Store opened in April 1906. The store was the home of the area’s first Coca-Cola fountain.

It also served as a Trailways Bus Station, a service that was discontinued in 1975. At different times, the store served as the collection agency for telephone, electricity and water, in addition to some city services such as payment of taxes and applications for business licenses.

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35 Shop Main Street Canton MidCity Pharmacy 770-479-5533

196 E. Main Street R Canton, GA Billy Cagle, Pharmacy Owner

Diabetic Shoes and Supplies • Compression Stockings and Fitting Flu, Shingles, Pneumonia and B12 Injections Durable Medical Equipment (walkers, wheelchairs and ostomy supplies)

Bubble Packing • Orthopedics and Braces Compound Medications and Bill Insurance Medication Therapy Management We offer competitive prices on prescriptions Family Owned • FREE Local Delivery • Fast Friendly Service

230 East Main Street Canton, GA 770-479-4834

www.keyjewelry.com

THE CANTON THEATRE

IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CANTON

“Over the River and through the Woods” a Family Comedy November 3 to 12 at 8:00PM & 2:30PM | Tickets $15 and $18 “Stone Cold Country Reunion Show” One Nite! Country at its Best!

November 18 at 7:30PM | Tickets: Senior $12 and Adult $15 “Polar Express” Children’s Movie on our big screen December 3 at 3:00PM | All seats $1.00 | Limited Seating!

“Canton Art and Wine Walk” Sponsored by Main Street Main Street and everyone decked for the holidays!

Get your tickets for this yearly event by calling 770-704-1548 | Not to be missed!

“White Christmas” c.1954 with Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye & Vera Ellen December 10 at 3:00PM & 7:00 PM | All seats $5.00

171 East Main Street | Canton, GA 30114 FOR MORE INFORMATION 770.704.0755

Lizzy James Spartina • Vera Bradley Women's Accessories Gifts and Much More!

145 W. Main St. • 770-479-9115 www.chamberhouse.net November/December 2017 | Cherokee Life

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36

Through TheWoods

By Madison Hogan

Tate Norton, 5, at Deerwood Farms. // Kelly Norton Photography

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othing sparks the spirit of Christmas quite like the smell of fresh pine and ornaments lining a tree near the hearth in your home.

What’s even jollier is a trip with the family to cut down a candy and fun activities at a kid’s craft corner, Huttson said.

Christmas tree, sip hot coca near the fire and find a homeThere are also plans in the works to offer horse and wagon made wreath for the front door at one of Cherokee County’s rides one weekend, she said, and customers can call for times traditional tree farms.

Finding a tree at Deer Wood tree farms in Ball Ground has been a tradition for decades, owner Betty Huttson said. Located at 1109 Henry Scott Road, the farm will open the weekend before Thanksgiving, she said, with 700 to 800 trees ranging from popular Leyland cypresses to white pines, Carolina Sapphires, blue ices and Deodar cedars.

“The Christmas tree farms are far and few between,” she said. “There’s not many of them left and its usually due to people, they grow old, it’s a lot of work, you know keeping the trees trimmed and replanting each year and I have the land there because I board horses, so we just do it every year, it’s not a big money maker, but it’s so much fun watching the kids and meeting the people again year after year.

We’ve had people coming there for the same customers for 30 years and they have families and their families have families. It’s a wonderful time of year.”

Guests can cut down their own tree for $6 per foot, Huttson said and load it to their cars with the help of a shaker and bailer. The farm will be open from 10 a.m. until dark on weekdays and 9 a.m. until dark Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Clause will appear at the farm “Going out and picking out their very own special tree, and being able to cut it down and to carry it in a sleigh on the weekends, she said, and back to the tree farm building and then they children are encouraged come in, sit down in front of the fire and visit with to write a letter to Santa as the holidays Santa Clause. They can enjoy the horses as well in approach. and slip it in the giant the background.” mailbox next to the In the “south pole” sleigh. of Cherokee, visit “It’s just the joy of the family with the children,” she said of Berry Patch Farms on Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock the fun at tree farms. “Going out and picking out their very starting Nov. 25 for a chance to pick out your Christmas tree own special tree, and being able to cut it down and to carry it on a 4-acre lot. back to the tree farm building and then they come in, sit down Owner Bill Durden said this is the farm’s 40th anniversary, in front of the fire and visit with Santa Clause. They can which also offers blueberry picking in the summer and enjoy the horses as well in the background.” pumpkin picking in the fall. He said he’s seen the same Visitors can enjoy hot chocolate, hot cider, hotdogs, cotton families out cutting down trees, taking pictures and having

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38 fun at the farm for decades.

“I think what most of our customers enjoy is the fact that they’re going out and they’re spending time at a farm,” The best way to pick out a fresh tree, Durden said, is to find one that hasn’t dried out.

“The easiest way to tell whether or not a tree is not dried out is just pull your hand across the branches and it ought to feel soft,” he said.

Customers will have the choice between grown Leland cypresses and Fraser firs shipped in from North Carolina priced at $10 to $11 per foot.

Sip on hot chocolate, eat a funnel cake, take a picture in a sleigh, watch crafters make handmade wreaths and enjoy a hay ride out to the field while you’re there, Durden said.

“We open up what we call the barn which has a big rock fire place in it and let people come in and warm up by the fireplace and usually have hot apple cider and cookies in there,” he said.

Classes:

Workshops:

Oil Painting from Photographs

by Kristina Laurendi Havens Ages 16+ years - 4 week course Starts Nov 1 - Wednesdays 11AM-1:30PM

Get Under Someone’s Skin!

by Linda Maphet Achieving Realistic Skin Tones in Painting Sat, Nov 18 @ 12PM-5PM - $125 ($50 non-refundable deposit)

Meditation on Twin Hearts

by Melissa Oliver Ages 16+ years – Every Tuesday @ 6PM – Minimum donation $10 per session Oil & Acrylic Painting

by Linda Maphet Adults and Teens $100 - 4 week course Starts Nov 2 - Thursdays 1-3PM Potter’s Wheel & Fun Handbuilding

by Barbara Murphy & Julie Nunn Ages: 14+ yrs - $100 - 4 week course Starts Nov 7 - Tuesdays 1-3PM Limited Space!

Weaving by Jane Wimmer Adults and Teens - $150 6 week course Starts Nov 1 - Wednesdays 2-5PM Limited space!

Teen Drawing by John Horne Teens: 13 to 20 - $90 - 4 week course Starts Nov 4 - Saturdays 12:35PM - 2:30

Find Your Hand Lettering Style Workshop

by Madison Beaulieu Sat, Nov 4 @ 1-3PM - $45 with $20 supply fee Christmas Ornament Workshop

by Jeannie Everett & Susan Jones Sat, Nov 4 @ 1-3PM - $25 per person Group A: ages 5-8 & Group B: ages 9-12 Watercolor 2-Day Workshop

by Gary Curtis Friday & Sat, Nov 17 & 18 @ 12-5PM $210 ($50 non-refundable deposit)

Gallery Shows: Holiday Members Show & Sale November 7 – December 16 Cherokee Photography Club Show Stairwell Showcase

To sign up for classes call 770-704-6244 or e-mail info@cherokeearts.org. Include name and phone number.

Check our website for dates, times and fees.

94 North Street | Canton, GA 30114

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Tate Norton, 5, at Deerwood Farms. // Kelly Norton Photography

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By Sampson Jenkins Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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years after the war ended, Woodstock’s Susan Jimison continues to pay tribute to her brother

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housands of veterans, family members and those paying their respects to those who served bravely during the Vietnam War were in attendance Nov. 10 including Woodstock resident Susan Jimison for the 35th Anniversary of the war that took the lives of about 58,000 U.S. service members.

For the third time, Jimison traveled to Washington D.C. and read her brother’s name, Mark Clotfelter, who died in combat 48 years ago, during the 65-hour ceremony at “The Wall.”

Clotfelter served in the Vietnam War from September of

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43 1968 until June of 1969. His unit was the 361st Aviation Company, the Pink Panthers, Jimison said.

“They were a small, all Cobra Helicopter unit, flying secret missions across the border into Laos and Cambodia. The missions were dangerous and Mark had been shot down twice before his fatal crash. Mark was my only brother and I wrote to him religiously. He never let on just how dangerous it was partly because I was only 14. It’s been 48 years now and not a day goes by that I don’t think of Mark and how proud I am of him,” she said.

Jimison said reading Clotfelter’s name and the 28 other soldiers that died by his side was “an honor.”

“The war may have ended 42 years ago but the Vietnam War still matters,” she said. “About 58,300 lives should never be forgotten. I feel it is my duty to honor their sacrifice.”

Jimison once heard “speak his name” when referring to reading the names of fallen soldiers.

“As long as we speak their names our heroes never die,” she said. “It spoke directly to my heart. With the song I always leave at the base of Mark’s panel, 22 West, to the book I wrote about losing him, to reading his name aloud on Nov. 10, I speak his name so my hero never

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The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial anniversary service was “solemn and moving,” Jimison said.

“My brother’s name is etched in the black granite of the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in lieu of a headstone,” she said. “I will once again run my fingertips across his name to honor his short 22 years on earth and tell him he is not forgotten.”

Jimison documented the time she attended the 30th Anniversary of the Vietnam War by writing ‘Prologue of Dear Mark.’

“Mark’s ashes were scattered over the Atlantic Ocean in 1969.

There was no headstone, no grave-side service. So for me, Panel 22 West line 57, the side that faces the Washington Memorial, is where I feel Mark was laid to rest. This is where I come to talk to him. This is where he has remained forever young,” she wrote.

During the Memorial Day weekend Jimison also visited those she has met over the years at the anniversary ceremonies, who like her, read the name of their lost loved ones.

“Most are like family now,” she said. “I flew home Sunday and begin to look forward to participating again in five years. I secretly hope my children, grandchildren and perhaps my great nephew Mark, his namesake, will continue to honor Mark’s service and sacrifice after I am gone,” she said.

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46 [HIGHLIGHTS] A CLOSER LOOK AT EVENTS HAPPENING IN CHEROKEE DURING NOVEMBER & DECEMBER NOVEMBER 11

VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 1-17

SANTA MAIL

A celebration to honor America’s veterans Children can drop off their letters to Santa in the North Pole Mailbox at the Park at City is Nov. 11 at 7 p.m., presented by the Center’s gazebo, 101 Arnold Mill Road in City of Woodstock. The ceremony is at Woodstock. The mailbox is in the gazebo from Dec. 1 until Dec. 17. A personalized letter from the Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. For more information Santa will be delivered to all who sent letters through the mailbox just before Christmas. call 770-592-6000 or visit Santa Mail is sponsored by the city of www.woodstockga.gov.

Woodstock.

CANTON CHRISTMAS PARADE

Hosted by the Canton Optimist Club, this holiday festival and Christmas parade is scheduled to take place in downtown Canton Saturday, Dec. 2. Live music acts start in front of the historic courthouse, from 1 p.m. until the parade at 6 p.m. The parade will begin at the corner of Main Street and Academy Street. People of all ages are welcome to participate. Contact Richard Rogers, parade chair at rtrogers@southernco.com or 404-391-4493 for more information or to participate in the parade.

DECEMBER 8 & 9

DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 1

The City of Canton’s Art and Wine Walk pairs local artists with businesses for a fun and festive event starting Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. and continuing Dec. 9 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown shops will host wine samplings and artists will feature and sell their work. For $25, attendees will receive a gift bag and tickets for wine tastings at each of the shops. Info: www.cantonhdl.com.

The March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots returns for the 5th year to Main Street in Ball Ground Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. Residents are invited to bring new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program. Toys can be turned in at collection boxes on Main Street and near the stage at City Park by Santa after the parade. Marching bands, floats, dancers, superheroes, tractors, antique cars and Santa Claus will travel along the parade route to celebrate the holiday festivities. Food vendors will be available and Main Street restaurants will be open for extended hours. Info: www.marchofthetoysparade.com.

Join the City of Holly Springs and the Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council for the 6th annual lighting of the Tree of Hope at 6:30 p.m. at the Holly Springs Community Center at the Historic Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road in Holly Springs. The tree honors seniors served by the Cherokee County Senior Services Center. The community is invited to make a donation in a loved one’s honor to benefit Cherokee County’s senior citizens in need. After the tree lighting, enjoy hot apple cider and Christmas cookies.

Visit www.hollyspringsga.us for more information.

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3 LOW COUNTRY BOIL. The Rotary Club of Canton held a Low Country Boil—Family of Rotary and Membership Social at The Bluffs in Canton on Sept. 26. Potential members and Rotarians and their spouses participated in the evening event.

1. From left, Anne Meding, Wayne Meding, Kristi Estes, Nick Estes and Sal Bocchino. 2. From left, Hugh Beavers, Donna Beavers

and Karen Carter. 3. John and JoEllen Wilson.

// PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

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LOW COUNTRY BOIL. 4. Jason and Kelly Payne and their daughter Vera, 5. 5. Linda Comeaux and Peter Gleichman. 6. Amber Adams and Lois Zellman. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

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50 [REFLECTIONS]

Behind the magic

By Carla Barnes

oday, I find myself sitting atop a stool at the kitchen island of a house sweetly situated in St. Simon’s Island.

Outside they are still cleaning up from Irma which swept through the city and has left the sidewalks covered with tree limbs and debris. The Spanish moss is about the only thing that appears not to be out of place as it drapes elegantly on the live oak tree in the front yard.

My husband, Doug, and I have not been back here for more than a decade, and it brings memories of our early married days and the tradition of spending Thanksgiving here with his parents, who have long since passed away.

We frankly wondered if this trip to Florida, and then to the Georgia coast would even happen. Going into this fall break we watched as our path to fun and freedom got bruised and battered. Our little family unit was desperate to visit Universal Orlando Resort and spend some time growing closer.

Like many of you I have found this year to have been the ultimate game of tug of war. There have been moments of feeling strong and pulling the rope closer toward victory, and then other moments in which I have found myself drifting back standing where I began the game pulling harder than when I first started. It has been a jam-packed experience, at times frightening - much like the virtual reality rides I rode only days ago.

Our 12-year-old had it all mapped out for us the morning we hit the park. Our first stop was Diagon Alley to shop, and then we would ride the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts roller coaster. When the staff directed us to the lockers to pack away all of our possessions and I

T

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read through all the precautions on who should not ride this ride I was tempted to chicken out.

Of course my maternal instinct kicked in and I realized that there was no way I would allow my daughter to ride her first roller coaster without me. As we dipped, tilted and dove I let every pent-up emotion of the past year out.

I just decided it was far better just to go for it and not hold it in any more. I screamed my head off.

The process caused me to laugh out loud of course, because that is what I do. A picture taken on one of the rides that day captures this – my eyes wide open and my mouth in full scream mode, and the other two of my tribe eyes closed and with a death grip on the handle in front of them.

To be honest there were moments when my eyes were closed or at least half closed.

When it was all too much. One of my favorite authors, Stephen King said, “We make up horrors to help us cope with the real ones.”

Just about everything back at home was scarier than what I experienced on those rides. As I tally it all up from diseases to personal losses I can hardly believe my own life much less the lives my friends are currently living. It really can take your breath away.

Growing up The Great Gasp at Six Flags Over Georgia was one of the main attractions and a favorite ride for my dad and I. The parachute drop ride consisted of a 225-foot-tall tower that would pull you up to the top via lift and then drop you to the ground.

Riding this ride was “our thing” and reminded him of his brief experience in airborne training at ROTC summer camp in his younger days. I was the only one brave enough to go with him – how funny that some things in life don’t change and we face our fears together even today.

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