Canton Family Life 4-21

A Perspective on Opinion

Asa hobbyist and small-time collector of modest-sized antiques and items of character, I have realized that some of my most cherished things were popular during either the generation before mine, or, quite often, my own youth. From where I sit as I write this, some items in view include my second Slinky (each of us who had a metal one knows what happened to the first), a handmade wooden truck, and some tiny license plates from travels with my grandparents. So yes, the AARP and I have concluded that I’m over 50 and, thus, an antique.

For the past few years, I’ve had a minor issue with my health that I have kept to myself, for the most part. So fortunately for me, my wife also likes old, seasoned items. She married me last summer, so she has a thing for fixer-uppers with some “character.” I’m also blessed that she’s a registered nurse. So, I’m like a classic car with a mechanic on site.

To circle back to my point about my health, it didn’t take long for my wife to conclude that I have been seeking help either in the wrong places or not at all. She made it clear that even though there are many good-hearted people, opinions are like noses, and most everyone has one. Try asking for specialist recommendations on Facebook if you have doubts; you’ll receive more options than a bilingual sushi menu! So, instead of one new doctor, I now have three. No worries — just some mechanics. I needed some extra direction to get back to feeling my age, rather than that of my parents. The good Lord willing, I’ve many years left to enjoy.

For each of us, there comes a time to ditch our former ways, follow our hearts, and pray for a more beneficial option. With a second opinion, you get another choice, another viewpoint, an additional perspective. Don’t let pride or plain ignorance stand in the way of health, security, or your future. Listen to those who care about you. Seek what is best even in the worst of times.

Like the disciples in a boat on a raging sea (John 6:16-21), you may, too, be surprised when help comes walking across the waves to find you paddling your boat in vain, lost in the storm. Listen to your heart, and let him in. It’s time to accept a new direction and discover that safety and peace are waiting on yonder shore.

PUBLISHER/SALES

Jack Tuszynski

Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITORIAL

Julie Senger

Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Cyndi Braun

ART

Stephanie Bolton

Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com

Tiffany Corn

Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com

SALES

Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelley Archer, Mary Kay Buquoi, Cherokee Office of Economic Development

Zip Cain, Will Carlan, Karen Connelly, Jyl Craven, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Erin Honea, Dan Jape, Tim Morris, Jessica Oravec, Ellen Samsell Salas, Bruce Thompson, Shannon Wallace

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 770-213-7095

Also available online at FamilyLifePublications.com

Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Canton Family Life is a monthly community magazine that reaches more than 30,000 homes and businesses via digital subscription and direct mail in Canton including Sixes/BridgeMill, Ball Ground, Hickory Flat, Holly Springs, and Waleska.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

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

© 2021 All rights reserved.

Due to ongoing public health concerns, please confirm each event’s details and safety precautions before attending.

DECEMBER Calendar

APRIL

2, 23, 5/7, & 5/21

Parent’s Night Out

Drop the kids off at the pool, so you can enjoy adult time. Kids will play in the pool, enjoy a pizza dinner, do crafts, play games, and end the night with a movie. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678880-4760. CRPA.net

15

Community Skin Cancer

Screening — The Northside Hospital Cancer Institute is offering free skin cancer screenings, which consist of a brief assessment of exposed areas (such as the face, arms, hands, neck, and feet). You must be 18 or older to participate. This is a rapid screening. For a complete exam, see your doctor. Please call to schedule an appointment. 6:00-8:00pm, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute Radiation Oncology Cherokee, 460 Northside Cherokee Boulevard, Suite T10, Canton. 404-531-4444. Northside.com

19-23

Earth Day Celebration

Enjoy environmentally friendly activities planned in support of Earth Day! Visit the website for details. PlayCherokee.org

15 & 29

White Water Kayaking Roll Practice FREE for veterans of all skill levels. Participants will learn or advance their skills in a safe pool setting. Gear will be provided. 7:30-9:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 706-974-4832. TRRAtlanta. wordpress.com, TeamRiverRunner.org

16

APRIL IS DECORATING MONTH

Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon

Support VAC programs and get a wonderful lunch for only $5. Pick up to-go or bring a friend, coworker, or family member, and enjoy a tasty lunch while 100% of the proceeds go to

support the seniors and senior veterans of Cherokee County. 11:30am-1:00pm, Lodge at BridgeMill, 10451 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

21-22

Lyrid Meteor Shower

Expect to see 10-20 meteors per hour during this event. Unfortunately, a first-quarter moon is going to cause some interference for anyone looking early in the night. Your viewing options will be a few hours before dawn on the morning of 4/22.

Celebrate this month by redecorating a room inside your home (paint your walls a different color, shop around for new furniture, or experiment with new decorative pieces). If you’d rather pursue backyard enhancements, change up your outdoor living space (HINT: See this month’s feature for outdoor decorating ideas). If you’re on a tight budget, reorganize your home to make it less cluttered and more efficient.

ONGOING

Unwind Wednesdays — On the first Wednesday of each month through November, gather your family and friends to enjoy food trucks, live music, and other monthly activities such as axe throwing, bounce houses, cornhole tournaments, archery, and trivia. 5:30-8:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Highway 20 E, Canton. PlayCherokee.org

APRIL 4

22

Dual Celebration of Arbor Day and Earth Day — Due to the ongoing concerns of the pandemic, the City of Canton will not hold its annual Arbor Day Celebration. However, the City will host a celebration on Earth Day to commemorate Canton’s 28th year as an Arbor Day Foundation Tree City. Tree seedlings will be passed out at this event. Please visit the website for details, as they become available. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov

24

City of Canton Recycling Event

Please call or visit the website for details. 7:00am-1:00pm, City of Canton Public Works, 2525 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov

MAY

1Kentucky Derby Day — Enjoy History Cherokee’s signature fundraising event, supporting all historic preservation and education programs for the Society. Gather to watch the race, sip mint juleps, and dine on gourmet food. Ladies are encouraged to wear their finest chapeaux to qualify for entry in the Hat Parade and Contest. There will also be a silent auction and a pony pull. Visit the website for tickets. 4:00-7:30pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3288. RockBarn.org

Free CPR/AED Certification Class — On the last Saturday of each month, this fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org

Senator Speaks

Perspective and PERSEVERANCE

By State Senator Bruce Thompson

It’shard to believe that the first quarter of 2021 is already in the books, and it has been as unpredictable as last year. The stock market is acting like a child’s yo-yo, experiencing all-time highs followed by record one-day lows. In late February, an unprecedented ice storm hit Texas, causing more than 4 million customers to lose electricity and more than 90 people to lose their lives.

In the 1994 box office hit movie Forrest Gump, the title character said his momma always told him that “Life was like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.” There is much truth to that statement in that we can never be sure what the day will bring, but Forrest maintained a positive outlook, even when the love of his life was facing the end of hers.

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States, and he’s considered by many historians as the wisest and greatest American president ever. His life was anything but easy. As his family struggled with mental illness and poverty, Lincoln turned his focus to my favorite sport — wrestling. Over a 12-year span, Lincoln amassed an impressive record of 299-1 and secured a place in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. The sport

also helped him cope with the many trials he would face during his time in office.

Like most great wrestlers, Lincoln had a spirit of determination, and when it came to slavery, he was steadfast in his resolve to undo the terrible bondage that gripped our nation. On January 1, 1863, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared slaves to be free within the Confederacy.

Although Lincoln himself struggled with clinical depression, he remained upbeat when he said, “Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Adversity in life is as guaranteed to come as the morning sunrise, but the way we respond to it makes all the difference in how it impacts us. Happiness is a choice that may seem elusive. Many times, people confuse happiness with joy or pleasure, which are quite different. For example, since I’m a Braves fan, I take pleasure in watching them beat the Dodgers, Mets, or even the Cubs. Pleasure is superficial and temporal, sometimes sought through entertainment, food, drugs, and other addictions.

Also, I love being a dad and enjoy spending time with my children. Joy is an internal feeling manifested by peace and contentment because of intentional and selfless choices. On the other hand, happiness is an external emotion that is often dependent upon the circumstances we are presently experiencing, and it relies heavily on our perspectives, and the choices we make.

Who knows what the next quarter of 2021 will look like? I once read in a devotional that “we may not know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future!” So, choose to keep a positive perspective while you continue to persevere.

MUST Ministries Offers Affordable Health Care to Adults in Financial Need

Bridget Thompkins, CNA (standing), reviews patient information with Pam Spearman, board-certified family nurse practitioner at MUST Ministries’ Mercy Care.

MUST Ministries has been providing comprehensive wraparound services including food, housing, jobs, and clothing for the homeless and those in dire need in metro Atlanta.

The organization has expanded to now offer health care to anyone with financial difficulties through an on-campus Mercy Care Clinic in Marietta and the mobile Bethesda Community Clinic in Canton, both open to individuals without insurance or who have insurance with a high deductible.

In the first six months of operation, the clinic provided 542 patient visits, but Mercy Care has the capacity to serve even more people in need.

“There’s a public misunderstanding that Mercy Care is just a homeless clinic, but it’s open to the entire community,” said Cheryl Haire, MUST Ministries senior director of strategic partnerships and community outreach. “We offer full service primary and preventive health care. We take Medicaid and Medicare and don’t turn anyone away.”

Mercy Care is a not-for-profit, federally qualified health care clinic that charges clients based on a sliding fee scale, depending on their income. The clinic provides primary care, screenings, women’s health services, behavioral health services, and medication management. In addition, a licensed, professional counselor provides help for substance abuse and depression. Mercy Care also has a wide network to refer patients for further care. To schedule an appointment, call 678-843-8600.

In Cherokee County, MUST Ministries is partnering with Bethesda Community Clinic to offer free healthcare services through the Mobile Medical Unit, which is fully equipped to offer primary care, chronic disease management, women’s health, pediatric care, sick visits, and physicals. The mobile unit is at the MUST location in Canton at 111 Brown Industrial Parkway on the first Friday of each month from 10:00am-2:00pm. No appointment is necessary.

Nurse Practitioner Pam Spearman examines Jenelle Charlton-Broomes in the Mercy Care Clinic at MUST Ministries.

Community

Cherokee Chamber Announces 2021 Teen Leadership Class

Seventeen high school sophomores were recently selected as members of Cherokee Chamber’s 20th annual Teen Leadership Cherokee (TLC).

The students, all of whom live in Cherokee County, were asked to submit an in-depth application that included their school and community involvement as well as a video answering the question “Why should I be selected for Teen Leadership Cherokee?” Local business leaders reviewed the applications and videos before selecting the class.

TLC students are Bethany Akinola, North Cobb Christian; Nandita Bipin, River Ridge; Ryan Britt, Sequoyah; Lilly Carter, Creekview; Eli Cook, Creekview; Miriam Cousin, Woodstock; Madison Hawthorne, Cherokee; Isaac Martin, Creekview; Jay McCord, River Ridge; Summer McCoy, Cherokee; Deesha Panchal, Etowah; Ila Prabhuram, Etowah; Haley Roberson, Cherokee; Andrew Solano, Cherokee; Clay Tucker, Sequoyah; Jack Tucker, Sequoyah; and Milan Yadav, Woodstock.

After being named to the class, students attended an orientation with their parents followed by a retreat. Over the course of two months, the students participate in four sessions and complete an individual project that addresses topics such as community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development, and team building. At the conclusion of the program, the class is honored at a graduation ceremony.

Creekland MS Student Successes

Creekland MS sixth-grader Abbie Rickert won the Daughters of the American Revolution’s American history essay contest at the Hightower Trail Chapter, Northwest Georgia District level, and at the state level. The annual essay contest is for students in fifth through eighth grades. This year’s essay theme was “The Boston Massacre,” commemorating the 250th anniversary of this event.

As the state winner for her grade level, Rickert’s essay has been forwarded to the Daughters of the American Revolution’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., for judging at the national level.

“Congratulations to Abbie on this impressive achievement through a truly excellent essay,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower said. “It’s well-researched and well written and shows the reader what it was like to experience the historical event through the eyes of a girl Abbie’s own age. We wish her the best in the national competition!”

Creekland MS seventh-grader Abigail Moore won third place at the National Humanities Bee, which was held virtually this year. The academic bowl-style event tests middle and elementary school students’ knowledge in literature, art history and technique, music history and theory, dance, film, religion, mythology, and philosophy.

Moore twice qualified for the national competition by finishing first and third in two consecutive tournaments. She is an outstanding student, who excels in all her classes and has expanded her humanities knowledge not only through English and social studies classes, but also through electives in French and art as well as plenty of reading.

“We’re so proud of Abigail for her dedication to furthering her knowledge and for earning this national honor. We know this love of learning will serve her well in her future studies and successes,” Hightower said. “While so much of our conversation about education today focuses on STEM, we must continue to strongly value literature, languages, history, and the arts. This knowledge expands our minds, connects us to our past and the world around us today, and enriches our lives.”

CCSD Students Continue To Top National, State Averages on AP Exams

For the 11th consecutive year, Cherokee County School District (CCSD) high schools have earned top honors for outstanding Advanced Placement (AP) programs and performance that continues to exceed national and state averages.

All CCSD high schools were named Georgia 2021 AP Honor Schools for exceptional student performance and participation on AP exams, which offer students more challenging coursework and the opportunity to earn college credit.

Overall, CCSD students who took the exam earned passing scores of three or higher on 72% of the 4,640 tests administered last school year, as compared to 61% for Georgia and 59% nationwide. In looking specifically at the Class of 2020, including those who did not take AP courses or exams, 32% of all CCSD graduates scored at least a three or higher on one exam or more, as compared to 23% for Georgia and 24% nationwide.

Assuming each passing AP exam equals one college course, these students save significantly on the cost of college, translating to an overall $4.4 million savings in Georgia in-state college tuition.

“Despite the obstacles faced during their final weeks of school last spring, our high school students triumphed on their AP exams. We’re so proud of their success and the dedication of their teachers who rose to the challenges of teaching them remotely last spring,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower said. “Offering our college-bound students a wide variety of AP courses is an important preparation for their future success, and these results affirm the value of our community’s investment.”

St. Michael’s Food Pantry Receives Generous Hunger Pilot Grant

The Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) has approved a $14,600 Hunger Pilot Grant to benefit St. Michael’s Food Pantry in Woodstock. Hunger Pilot Grants support Lions’ projects focused on alleviating hunger. Ranging in amounts from $10,000 to $100,000, the grants require a 25% contribution from local Lions Clubs and, additionally, must be used for capital improvements such as construction or expansion, kitchen equipment, or vehicles used for transporting food.

The Woodstock Lions Club became aware of equipment and construction needs at St. Michael’s Food Pantry last year. In the fall of 2020, the Woodstock and Ball Ground Lions Clubs jointly applied for the LCIF grant to address those needs. Subsequently, each Lions Club has donated $1,900, and St. Michael’s has donated $1,100 to meet the 25% matching requirement of $4,900. With LCIF’s grant of $14,600, the project total is $19,500.

St. Michael’s partnership with the Woodstock and Ball Ground Lions Clubs will be ongoing. Both Lions Clubs have pledged to support the food pantry with project management, on-site inspections of the project, publicity, and Lions Club volunteers for both project work and food pantry operations.

The pantry is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00-11:45am. An appointment is not required. It is located on the campus of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock.

“The funds received from this grant will enable us to replace equipment at its useful service life, increase frozen food storage capacity by 20%, and protect our refrigerated truck from accelerated degradation due to weather exposure. St. Michael’s Food Pantry provides frozen meats, produce, dairy, bakery, and nonperishable foods to any Cherokee County resident in need of food assistance,” said Director Patrick Arko.

Math Learning Loss Eight Ways To Prevent During Summer Break

By Karen Connelly, M.S.

[Academic Life] While summer provides a much needed respite from the structure and rigor of the school year, research has shown that it is also a time when students lose a significant amount of learning. Summer learning loss is more pronounced in math and can have long lasting effects on students’ self-confidence and future math success. Here are some fun ways to keep math skills sharp while school is out.

 Play games! Board games, card games, and dice games that use money and/or require keeping score will improve addition and subtraction fluency.

 DIY as a family! Some of the math skills involved in home improvement projects include spatial reasoning, budgeting, calculating area, measuring distances and angles, and problem solving.

 Cook together! Following a recipe requires sequencing, measuring, and counting. Scaling a recipe up or down requires multiplication or division.

 Take your kids shopping! Have them estimate the cost of multiple items. Give them a budget for healthy snacks.

 Read math-based books! Try The Greedy Triangle by Marilyn Burns or Secrets, Lies, and Algebra by Wendy Lichtman.

 Start a business! Older kids can learn about accounting, managing expenses, and calculating profits by doing yardwork, babysitting, pet sitting, or walking dogs.

 Listen to or play music! Music is inherently mathematical, from time signatures to rhythm to pitch to chord structure to vibrating strings. Exploring different genres exposes the brain to the many different patterns and structures of music, and studies have shown that students who learn to play an instrument tend to perform better in math.

 Find a summer math program that specializes in creative, effective ways to teach math and works with your family’s schedule. Programs that focus on fractions, multiplication, algebra readiness, and more – while having fun and preparing kids to succeed in the coming school year –are very beneficial.

Karen Connelly is the owner of Mathnasium of Holly Springs, 6768 Hickory Flat Highway #102, Canton. 678-880-7592. Mathnasium.com/hollysprings

Providing Services and Support for Crime Victims

By District Attorney Shannon Wallace

“For too long, the victims of crime have been the forgotten persons of our criminal justice system….We need a renewed emphasis on, and an enhanced sensitivity to, the rights of victims. These rights should be a central concern of those who participate in the criminal justice system, and it is time all of us paid greater heed to the plight of victims.”– President Ronald W. Reagan, Proclamation, April 8, 1981

In1981, President Reagan issued a proclamation that established National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). In the 40 years since this week was established, it has become an annual opportunity for communities across the country to honor individuals affected by crime and acknowledge the services provided by victim advocates.

Shortly after the first NCVRW, new laws and programs were enacted that specifically addressed victims’ rights. In 1982, Congress passed a law that provided protection and assistance to crime victims in federal cases; two years later, Congress passed a law that gave crime victims the right to restitution, notification of court proceedings, and information about the conviction of offenders.

Georgia enacted similar laws including a constitutional amendment (passed in 1988) that authorized payment for services to people harmed by violent crime and the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights (passed in 1995) that provided the right for individuals to be informed, present, and heard concerning the criminal case in which they were affected. In 2018, Georgia voters passed Marsy’s Law, which added other victim rights to our state constitution.

In 1993, the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office established the Victim Witness Assistance Program to aid people affected by crime. Today, we have

nine advocates on our staff who offer support and guidance to crime victims –2,473 people in 2020 alone.

The services these advocates provide uphold the Georgia Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights including notification of case status, education about the criminal justice system, accompaniment and support during criminal proceedings, referrals to resources, and assistance in filing for victim related compensation.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Individuals who have been affected by crime are honored each year through rallies, vigils, forums, and other awareness activities. To adhere to safety precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s NCVRW will look different than the past, but the messages and relevance of this week will remain the same.

The 2021 theme is “Support Victims, Build Trust, and Engage Communities.” Throughout the week, our office will issue a series of Facebook posts that support crime victims, highlight services we provide, and reach out to members of our community. We will also provide information on statutory rights and what to do if you are ever a victim.

There was a time when crime victims seemed to be forgotten in our criminal justice system. This is no longer the case. Victims have rights, they have a voice,

DIRECT SERVICES FOR VICTIMS

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

800-4-A-CHILD

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative 844-878-2274

Love is respect 866-331-9474, TTY 866-331-8453

Mothers Against Drunk Driving 877-MADD-HELP

National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE, TTY 800-787-3224

National Human Trafficking Hotline 800-373-7888

National Elder Fraud Hotline 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311)

National Runaway Safeline 800-RUNAWAY

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255, TTY 800-799-4889

Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc. 888-818-POMC

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network 800-656-HOPE

Safe Helpline 877-995-5247, online chat

The Trevor Project 866-488-7386

Veterans Crisis Line 800-273-8255 x1, TTY 800-799-4889

and they have support and services in the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office.

For more information, contact the Victim Witness Assistance Program at 770-479-1488 or visit Facebook.com/ CherokeeDistrictAttorney.

We hope you never find yourself in need of crime victim services. But if you do, we are here to help guide you and protect your rights.

A New Home BUILT WITH You in Mind

By Kelley Archer

[Life style] At one point or another, you come to the realization that it’s time to look for a new place to call “home.” Maybe your family is growing and you’re in search of some much-needed extra space, or maybe it’s time to downsize into a home that fits your life today. No matter the reason, you’ll likely find yourself asking, “What are the benefits to buying a brand-new house?”

You won’t get caught up in “the hunt.”

Homebuyers looking at available inventory on the market find themselves in the inevitable “hunt,” finding resale homes that seem to be a good fit for their needs, only to learn that multiple offers have already been submitted before they even have a chance to take a tour. This often leads to settling on the location of the place you’ll call home or even feeling pressured into making an offer too soon. When you decide to build a new home, you’ll never feel rushed through the process.

Reputable and award-winning builders await. A home purchase is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your life, so you’ll want to be sure you’re investing

in a quality house, built by a name you can trust. New home communities rely on reputable home builders to create quality spaces behind each and every front door.

Everything is ready for you on day one.

With construction complete and keys in hand, you’ll be amazed, as you walk through the home that meets your family’s every want and need. You worked side by side with your home builder to choose your features, fixtures, and finishes. Now, what once was a dream has come to life in the form of your brand-new home. It’s time to sit back and relax in the house built just for you. L

Kelley Archer is the marketing manager for Landeavor, the developer of the Great Sky community, 100 Sun Shower Ridge, Canton. 770-704-0234. GreatSkyGa.com

Tim McWhirter, owner of Canton Termite, lives by the belief that we all are our brothers’ keepers. Serving his family, his employee family, and the Cherokee County area is the heart of his business. So, when COVID-19 turned the world upside down, McWhirter was thankful that his company could remain committed to those who rely on its services.

“We serve an essential role in our community: keeping everyone safe and clean,” McWhirter said. “I’m grateful we have been able to continue providing that service. I’m grateful we’re still in business, and I thank our customers for continuing to support us with their business.”

In the early days of the pandemic, when no one knew what to expect and many feared the worst, McWhirter said his employees were ready to respond.

“We worked hard to make sure we could continue to offer quality service while minimizing risks for both our customers and our employees,” said McWhirter. “We may choose to socially distance, but bugs sure won’t!”

Because his technicians routinely work in crawl spaces and attics with mold, mildew, bat droppings, and other potential carriers of disease, it wasn’t difficult to adapt to mandated protocols.

“When the new COVID guidance was released by the CDC, we found that many of these rules overlapped with the safety precautions we already use,” McWhirter said. “Because of this, it took minimal effort for us to comply with the safety guidelines. Our standard procedures allowed us to easily transition into this new world. To me, it highlighted the importance of preparation and training. I am thankful to my amazing team for rising to the challenge and enabling us to successfully navigate 2020.”

But, McWhirter emphasizes, it is the ongoing support of customers that enabled Canton Termite to survive the challenges created by the pandemic.

“We wouldn’t have gotten where we are today if not for our loyal customers. Times like these strengthen the community, and I have been so proud to be a Cherokee County resident and see the outpouring of support our community has shown local businesses,” said McWhirter.

A lifelong resident of Cherokee, McWhirter said he is also thankful the business could continue to contribute to the economic health of the area.

And, with most of his employees born and raised in Cherokee County, he is happy to say, “We’re local. We understand our community. We’re not trying to expand into other markets. We want to be the best we can in our community. We have been able to grow because of all the people in Cherokee who are determined to keep money in the community. We’re all here to help each other out.”

Canton Termite and its employees have always given back to Cherokee County in multiple ways: serving as scout leaders, youth ministers, and Little League umpires while also providing free services to the less fortunate, and supporting area sports teams and events.

“Any time an opportunity arises to help, we jump on it,” McWhirter said.

For their Christmas gathering, which was held outside in a park in order to observe social distancing, they enjoyed food purchased from a local restaurant.

“Every little bit helps the mood of the community,” he said. “And in a dark time, every little spark helps.”

At the company Christmas party, McWhirter spoke to his employees about his responsibility to them and his customers. Likening himself to the captain of a small ship, not a huge cruise liner, he said he has a personal connection to each of them and the residents of Cherokee County.

“I want Canton Termite to be the best we can for our community. We all carry the weight of supporting and caring for each other. As we progress through 2021, my team and I will continue to provide quality service and support our community. We

PEST CONTROL SERVICES

Termites, Roaches, Ants, Spiders, Scorpions, Rats, Mice, Wasps, Hornets, Yellow Jackets, Centipedes, Millipedes, Bedbugs, Mosquitoes, and any other problem pests!

Household Pest Control

Termite Pretreatment/Control

Mosquito Yard Service

Wildlife Removal

Termite Closing Letters (WDO Reports)

Finding Comfort in

Aroundone year ago, scientists began cautioning us about a new virus that had the potential to become a serious, life-disrupting pandemic. Face masks and “shelter-in-place” became hot topics. Through all the anxiety and uncertainty, one familiar experience gave us an escape: the arts.

We found comfort in the arts. With music venues closed, musicians turned to virtual listening rooms. Can’t go to the club? No problem. You could listen to DJs spin late into the night on their social media sites. Museums made their collections available in free virtual tours. Movies found new homes on streaming platforms when the theaters closed, and most of us ended up binge watching a television series or two to pass the time (marked safe from watching Tiger King).

The pandemic could not stop artists. In fact, the pandemic spurred a new interest in the arts all over the world.

One local shop in downtown Canton, Menagerie on Main, found its voice during the pandemic. Opening just weeks before the shutdown, its owners quickly pivoted

By Will Carlan

to find new ways to serve the community. Featuring local artists in an array of different styles, Menagerie on Main provided a gallery for art lovers to escape from the darkness of the world, which also became an outlet for creators to sell their art. For example, young artist Raymond Pickens was at first hesitant to share his skill at this new shop.

But as a Canton native and former Cherokee High School basketball standout, Pickens is exactly the kind of local talent that helped our city shine during these times.

This past year was particularly hard on the Cherokee Arts Center. It had to temporarily close its doors to in-person classes. Thankfully, the volunteer board was able to reset priorities and find new, creative ways

During the Pandemic

to offer arts education to our community. Virtual classes and online resources will keep the Cherokee Arts Center active until it can once again have classrooms filled with eager students, many of whom may have picked up a brush or camera for the first time during the pandemic.

Public art is a sign of a healthy, thriving community. Prior to the shutdowns early last year, a plan was conceived to add more public art in Canton. The first location was the long, low wall on Railroad Street. After vetting several highly qualified artists with original, breathtaking concepts, a group of Cherokee County schoolteachers were chosen to paint a mural on this wall. Be on the lookout in the months ahead for updates on the progress of the mural.

Canton is full of artists and creators from all walks of life. Like art, our community should be accessible to everyone. As we listen to scientists and begin to safely reopen music venues, galleries, and theaters, keep in mind how the arts comforted during “these unprecedented times.”

CantonGa.gov

Teaching Your Children About Money

By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[Academic Life] Do you remember being in your teens and your early twenties? Were you low on funds due to unnecessary spending? Teach your children the value of a dollar in their younger years to help them save money later in life. By setting up an allowance, you can teach your children to budget, save, and learn the difference between needs and wants.

After offering your children an allowance, let them buy anything they choose with that money for a limited time. Then, talk with them about what things they could have gone without to save money, and what was a responsible purchase.

Make a budget with your children. Discuss how much they’d like to put in their savings accounts from each allowance, and how much they want for personal use. Since young children don’t need to spend money on necessary items such as food and clothing, be sure to explain that as they get older, they may have to spend their money on many other things that they need. That’s why this is a wonderful time to start saving.

Help your children stick to their budgets, and keep emphasizing how important it is to save money for what they need rather than what they want.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED IN Holly Springs Government

By Erin Honea

Residents and business owners often wonder how they can become more involved in Holly Springs government.

There are many ways people can plug in with little commitment, like volunteering at community events and attending City Council meetings. For those who want to become more actively engaged, the City of Holly Springs has five community boards on which residents and business owners may serve. Each position is appointed by the City Council.

CHEROKEE COUNTY LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

This board oversees the operations of the county libraries and reports to the Regional Board. The City appoints one member to this board. Terms are three years in length.

TREE COMMISSION

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY/URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

The DDA/URA strives to revitalize and promote development of industry and employment in the Town Center District. Terms are four years in length.

The mission of the Tree Commission is to provide support, leadership, resources, and opportunities for the preservation of specimen trees, the promotion of Arbor Day, the beautification of public spaces throughout the community, and the Tree City USA designation for the City of Holly Springs. Terms are one year in length.

PARKS AND RECREATION AUTHORITY

The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Authority is to acquire property, and construct, equip, maintain, and operate athletic and recreational centers, facilities, and areas. Terms are one year in length.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

The Planning and Zoning Commission hears and makes recommendations to the City Council concerning the approval of rezoning applications, amendments to the zoning ordinance, and conditional use permit applications. Terms are one year in length.

If you are interested in serving on any of these boards, the City accepts applications on an ongoing basis. As positions become available, a representative from the City will contact you to see if the position available is one that interests you. Applications can be downloaded at HollySpringsGa.us/boardapplication.

Questions? Please email Admin@hollyspringsga.us.

Erin Honea is a native of Cherokee County and has been the Main Street director for the City of Holly Springs since 2014.

Volume Hair and Lash Co. was started in 2020 by owner Megan Howard who has a devout appreciation for cosmetology. The salon offers top quality hair and lash services. Its highly acclaimed stylists create beautiful, classic hairstyles with a modern approach, inside a relaxing and stylish atmosphere.

Priding themselves on putting customer needs first, Hair and Lash Co.’s stylists aspire to make everyone’s salon experience exceptional. Hair is their passion, and it shows on every client who walks out of the salon’s doors. Through ongoing education, the stylists stay up-to-date on the latest cut and color trends and techniques to provide each client with the look he or she wants.

From natural to pastel hues, Hair and Lash Co.’s technicians can create the perfect mix of color for your tresses and follow it up with a fresh cut and style. You will leave with vibrant hair and a plan to maintain that vibrancy until your next visit.

Volume Hair and Lash Co. offers services for the whole family. Options include balayage, partial or full highlights, lowlights, hand-tied extensions, Keratin Complex treatments, blow outs, haircuts and styles, “little lady” and “little man” haircuts, lash extensions, lash fills, lash subscriptions, and more. The salon’s stylists can also serve your bridal party in-house or will be glad to travel to your location.

If you have a look you want but do not know how to achieve it, Volume Hair and Lash Co. can make it happen. Howard and her team also offer a free conditioning treatment between appointments along with solid advice on how to keep your hair healthy.

To make an appointment with Howard or one of her teammates at Volume Hair and Lash Co., please call or visit the website.

402 Argonne Terrace, Suite 240 Canton, GA 30115 770-855-1070 • VolumeHairAndLash.com

By Julie Senger

Lighting Furniture CreatingthePerfect Outdoor Living Space

Now that winter is finally over, most of us are anxious to get outside and enjoy warm weather this spring and summer. As we continue to battle a pandemic, we are also keenly aware of how valuable our outdoor spaces have become for our own enjoyment as well as for hosting small gatherings while adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines of remaining socially distant and wearing masks.

April is a great time to begin creating the perfect outdoor living space, where you can escape the confines of the indoors and enjoy muchneeded fresh air. Here are some things to think about while you plan the layout of your new favorite hang “out” spot.

Lighting is important because it helps create ambiance in your space during evening hours. When choosing how to illuminate the area, consider your needs. If you plan to grill after dark, you will want lighting that is bright, so you can adequately see your food preparation area. If you are trying to create a romantic or relaxing atmosphere, you may opt for a dimmer lighting source to set the tone for the mood you’re trying to evoke. Here are some lighting options to consider:

• Cafe String Lights • Lamps

• Lanterns

• Tiki Torches

• Patio Ceiling Light Fixtures/Chandeliers

• Christmas/Fairy String Lights

• Remote Controlled Track Lighting (with color changing options and movement settings)

Whether you plan to sit outside to chat and have a drink with friends, dine al fresco with your family, lie out in the sun to soak up a little vitamin D, or circle the firepit with a few neighbors to roast marshmallows, there’s furniture for that! Here’s a list of items to shop for depending on how you plan to spend time in your outdoor space:

• Extra Folding/Stackable Chairs

• Hammock/Hammock Stand

• Coffee/Side Tables • Bar/Barstools

• Outdoor Living Set • Lounge Chair Set

• Dining Set

Food Prep

When summertime rolls around, there’s nothing better than preparing meals outside. In addition to the tasty al fresco dining, outdoor meal preparation means you’re not heating up your house and causing your utility bill to skyrocket when you crank up your central air conditioner in an attempt to cool it back down. Here are a few items you may want to invest in:

• Coolers/Beverage Tubs

• Gas/Hibachi/Charcoal Grill

• Smoker

• Turkey Fryer

Climate/ Pest Control Decorative Accents

To get the most use out of your new space, you will want to provide climate control options to keep you warm on cool days and cool on warm days. Setting up a heating or cooling source will extend the “outdoor season” into the autumn months. You will also want to control those pesky mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted outdoor pests. Consider the following options:

• Firepit/Chiminea/Patio Heaters

• Ceiling/Portable Fans

• Cool Misting Devices

• Bug Zappers/Citronella Lanterns/Candles

• Exterminator Mosquito Yard Treatments

• Shade Umbrellas/Awnings/Canopies/Pergolas/Other Coverings for Weather Protection

Hardscapes

If you are planning to make a larger, fixed, more permanent change to your outdoor living space, you will most likely need to hire a professional to install or build the items on the list below. While these features will certainly require a larger financial commitment, if you ever decide to sell your home, they may also yield a great return on investment by increasing your property value. Consider these additions for a spectacular outdoor living space:

• Outdoor Kitchen • Fireplace

• Woodfire Oven • Gazebo

• Pool/Hot Tub

• Waterfalls/Fountains

Let your creative juices flow, as you select decor to fill out your space and give it a personal touch. Color and theme choices abound to help you create the right vibe. Whether you seek to cultivate a tropical oasis, surround yourself in pastels and floral prints, or opt for clean earth tones with comforting fabrics and patterns, here are some things to put on your shopping list:

• Outdoor Area Rugs • Plants • Candles

• Decorative Pillows

• Art/Sculptures/Signs

• Tapestries

• Weatherproof Curtains

Entertainment

Whether you are hosting backyard events -- a tailgate party, outdoor family movie night, perhaps a neighborhood tournament (volleyball, horseshoe, or cornhole) -- or you just want to sit outside and enjoy a cup of coffee and/or a glass of wine while listening to music, you are going to need some or all of these things:

• Covered/Wall-Mounted TV • Yard Games

• Portable Projector/Movie Screen • Outdoor Speakers

After everything is set up, your new outdoor retreat will offer the opportunity for lots of quality time to make many new memories with family and friends. Happy spring!

• Koi Ponds

MAKE YOUR FINE HAIR So Fine Again

By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] Do you wish you had a thicker head of hair? Are you tired of turning on the TV and seeing your favorite Hollywood star with long, gorgeous hair that always looks full and perfect? If you could wave a magic wand and have instantly thicker locks, would you?

For millions of Americans, this wish may seem like a farfetched dream. But don’t worry, achieving this desired look may not be as difficult as you think. For many of us, our hair is the one thing on our body we wish could be a little fatter. Here are three styling tips you can try that will surely plump up your mane and help to make it so fine again.

Shampoo for Success

Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, as these are “must haves” for fine hair. Volumizing cleansers are the choice for most women with thinner hair because they are very lightweight, remove oils and product buildup, revitalize the scalp, and clean the hair.

Some professional volumizing shampoos can enhance the thickness of your strands by expanding the cortex, thus providing amplified volume. Others deposit thickening polymers that create a coating around the hair, adding more body. After shampooing, remove as much moisture with a towel as possible to ensure maximum effect from the product regimen.

Cocktail Party

No, we’re not talking about a girl’s night out – we’re referring to a hair cocktail to give your blow dry a fine boost.

Before using the hairdryer, start with a root spray to stimulate circulation, create texture, and add volume. Follow with a volumizing mousse that is lightweight and adds body. A mousse containing hyaluronic acid is a great choice, as this mineral helps the hair attract and retain moisture, which keeps it plump and hydrated. After blow drying, finish with a texture spray to help build more volume and enhanced definition.

Fine Tools

You’ve shampooed for success and are ready for your cocktail party, but are you equipped with the proper tools for your situation?

To gain maximum volume for your fine locks, you’ll need a brush and blow dryer to complete your objective. When choosing a brush, look for a vented ceramic round brush containing tourmaline. The ceramic and tourmaline combo help provide a quicker, smoother, longer-lasting finish. When blow drying, use an air concentrator

and wait until your hair is approximately 70% dry before beginning.

Begin by sectioning out your locks. Starting with the sections closest to your neck, place your brush on the scalp and wrap your hair around the brush. Starting at the root of your strands, begin drying while keeping medium tension and working your way down the section to the ends.

Having fine hair doesn’t mean you can’t rock thicker looking locks. But to achieve an envious style full of body, there are a few things you must first do. Implementing just one of these recommendations will provide some benefit, but why hold back? Go all in with your fine self, and make your hair so fine again. L

Ornamental Grasses Offer Beauty and Versatility

By Joshua Fuder

[Home Life] Karl Foerster, the famed horticulturalist, once said “grasses are the hair of Mother Earth.” Just as a wellcoiffed hairstyle can make the difference from average to extravagant, ornamental grasses can transform a landscape.

From low-growing ground covers up to 15 feet tall, ornamental grasses provide great variety in growth. Their forms can range from low mounds to spilling fountains to tall, upright verticals. Grasses are also easy to grow, as they have relatively few insect or disease issues and are drought tolerant once established.

Grasses also provide needed shelter and food for native wildlife. The seeds of many varieties provide fall and winter food for birds. Clump forming grasses also provide habitat and nesting sites for groundnesting bees.

Ways To Use Ornamental Grasses in the Landscape

• Containers - Either as the center of a planting, mixed annual planting, or by itself.

• Erosion Control - Cherokee County is full of slopes, and grasses are one of the best tools for holding the ground and filtering sediment.

• Screening - Unsightly views and landscape features, like propane tank or A/C units, can be quickly hidden by some of the taller, ornamental grasses.

• Ground Covers - Blue fescue is a small-sized, silvery-blue variety that fits anywhere. Liriope or lilyturf is versatile

in sun or shade and comes in variegated colors as well as deep purple.

• Specimen Plant/Focal Point

• Background for Landscape BedsMedium to taller grasses at the back of a bed will add dimension and help focus the eye on seasonal color in front.

Be aware that some ornamental grasses are listed as invasive or undesirable due to their ability to spread via seed and escape into the natural environment. Try to avoid using maidengrass, pampas grass, Japanese bloodgrass, giant reed, and weeping lovegrass.

Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee

Helping adults with special needs succeed is the mission statement for Blake’s House of Independence (BHI), which is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that was recently accredited by Council on Quality Leadership. The organization serves individuals in north Georgia, including Cherokee and North Fulton counties.

Jamita Martin established BHI in 2013 to help adults with disabilities maintain employment and live independently. The mother of a child who suffered from severe developmental delay under the autism spectrum, Martin developed a passion to advocate for her son and other adults with disabilities. She created a culture in which her son and others could gain special training to obtain employment, acquire skills to utilize during leisure and social time, and live independently.

BHI uses comprehensive strategies that steer adults with disabilities toward having lifelong independence, purpose, and a sense of inclusion in their communities. The organization focuses on individuals

Community Partner

with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are in the process of transitioning to independent, productive lives. An employment program, a day program, community access, and a Dreams @ Work initiative are all provided through this organization.

Depending on which waiver an individual has, the employment program is through Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency or the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. The program includes job readiness training, job coaching, and job placement.

BHI’s day program is called Anchors for Individuals, which provides fellowship with peers and complete community activities, all while learning and mastering new skills. If an individual does not want to come to a day program, he/she has the option of working one-on-one with a direct support professional (DSP). The DSP will take the individual to a place he/she chooses in the community to complete tasks that are specific to what he/she wants to do.

The Dreams @ Work initiative offers the opportunity for people with disabilities to create and manage micro businesses that generate income for their own independent living expenses. This program has a thrift store and an E-commerce store, which provide community access and work experience.

BHI is made up of about 40 employees from a variety of backgrounds. All have been trained and have the necessary skills to assist individuals through different programs, whether in the home, community, or workplace. All employees maintain ongoing training for their positions including COVID-19 training to ensure Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines are being followed.

Teamwork, a well-trained and highly educated staff, and a connection to the community are BHI’s strengths. For more information, please call or visit the website.

[InGoodFaith] Deep down, I believe we all desire to love our neighbors as ourselves and to also share our faith, but a lot of folks don’t do it because it can be a little intimidating or scary, and sometimes we don’t do these things because we have no idea where to start. But what if there was a simple way for everyone to do both of those things and bless those we encounter each day?

B.L.E.S.S.

By Minister Zip Cain

Dave and Jon Ferguson recently came out with a book that equips people, in a practical way, to love their neighbors, coworkers, and anyone else. A way that will ultimately give them an opportunity to share their faith. It’s called B.L.E.S.S. Each letter in this acronym helps people ease into sharing the hope that they have in Jesus.

B. (Begin with prayer) L. (Listen) E. (Eat) S. (Serve) S. (Share your faith)

When we take the time to pray for people, listen to people, share a meal with people, and serve the people that we come in contact with, it opens a door for us to share our faith.

We must start with prayer. Ask God to put people in your path who need to feel his love and presence. When he places those folks in your path, make sure that you’re slow to speak and quick to listen to what they have to say about their lives. One of

Masters Month

By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] April is by far my favorite month for a few reasons. Everything starts to bloom, birds sing, grass turns green, and we get more hours of daylight. Another reason I love spring is because it’s time for the Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia, which is where I grew up. I enjoy talking to people who never had a chance to go to the Masters, and when I’m asked, I very politely and humbly tell them that I’ve been 35 times.

While folks are astonished that I’ve been so many times, what they don’t know is I worked the Masters for four years — the practice rounds and the tournament — which totaled 28 times. The other seven times were spread out from 1979 until now.

When I worked at the Masters, I knew nothing about golf and had never heard of Arnold Palmer, Jack

the best ways to do this is by eating a meal across the table from people. Once you know what they are going through, this opens the door to knowing the best way to serve them. Selflessly serving someone as a believer in Christ is mind blowing to many people. They may ask, “Why are you doing this?” Boom! This opens the door to share our faith and testimony.

If you desire to love your neighbor and are seeking to share your faith, pick up a copy of this book, or at least write down this simplistic strategy to bless those whom God puts in your path. L

SOURCE – BLESS-Book.org

Zip Cain is the missions minister at Revolution Church, 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton. 770-345-2737. Revolution.church

Nicklaus, Raymond Floyd, or many of the other famous golfers. I just saw the beauty in the place and remember taking my shoes off to put my bare feet on the plush grounds.

I always enjoyed the egg salad sandwich they sold with the green wrapper, and how you never saw a wrapper floating around on the grounds. Later, I found out they hired people to pick up trash and chase the wrappers.

As we age, our memory of things becomes even more important to us. Since I’m getting older, I started writing stories down in case my memories fade. I hope to leave them for my grandkids to read. Perhaps they’ll think grandpa was a pretty cool guy.

When possible, it’s important to record and preserve the memories of our senior loved ones for future generations. It gives them a personal glimpse into a time in history they might otherwise never know much about. L

Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services

Artist Profile

BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

TONEISHA HARRIS Singing From the Heart

Listening to local vocalist Toneisha Harris sing, one is drawn into her music. Gifted with perfect pitch, The Voice’s Season 18 runnerup learned to harmonize and arrange through years of singing gospel, musical theater, R&B, and pop. She brings passion, pain, joy, and love to her vocals, essentials that cannot be taught.

“My passion for music is vital,” Harris said. “Music is life’s soundtrack. There’s something out there in music that will speak to whatever is happening with you — heartbreak, happiness, whatever — there is a piece of music that will speak to it.”

As a child, Harris sang with her cousins and hoped to join the family’s gospel group someday, a feat she accomplished when she turned 12.

“My gospel roots are deep and have shaped my love and passion for music, my sound. I sing from that spot whether I’m doing rock, R&B, or pop. That soul is always there.”

Singing to one person or a thousand, Harris connects with her audience, an art she credits her mother for imparting. Looking into the crowd and “pulling from their energy,” Harris said, “excites me, energizes me.”

“The performance isn’t just about me. I’m telling a story, and I attempt to take the audience on the journey with me. You need to connect with what you’re singing. Facial gestures, my hand movements, I want my audience to be in it with me,” said Harris.

A lover of all genres, from opera to country, Harris incorporates elements from each of those into her singing. She can go high or low, “take it down or get bigger,” whatever the music dictates.

“There are moments that I don’t want to get lost in the music, so I pull back, get soft, and listen to the music,” said Harris. “It’s storytelling. If they’re invested, they’ll lean up and listen.”

Harris begins by exploring the song, listening to it, and asking, “What is the pivot of this story?” and “How do I want to sell this story?” She plays with different riffs or runs, and she watches herself sing in front of a mirror to gauge what gestures and movements help convey the tale. Whether she is wowing with her power or a more subtle approach, her vocals are so dynamic that listeners can’t help but be drawn into the performance.

Harris said that her success on The Voice has meant even more than getting a four-chair turn in the first round or making the finale — accomplishments she never expected.

Thankful for the knowledge she gained from working with great musicians and singers, Harris says that The Voice was a rebirth for her.

“It pushed me forward. It reconnected me to my music. It was like a resuscitation.”

That renewal now includes mentoring up-and-coming singers, writing songs and jingles (one of which was picked up by McDonald’s), performing as a background vocalist for Nick Jonas on a recent episode of Saturday Night Live, and creating her own throat spray, Ton’s Tonic. Her recent focus has been writing and producing a single with an anticipated spring release date.

“It’s inspirational. It’s rock; it’s pop; it’s an eclectic mix. I describe it as ‘world music’ that touches us all. That’s where my heart is.” Harris said. “I hope it will be healing for us as a nation. I hope it will become a mantra and make us believe we’re better when we do it together.”

To learn more about Harris, or to hear her music, look for her on Facebook (Toneisha Harris), Instagram (@iamtoneishaharris), and TikTok (@toneishaharris).

By Dan Jape

To Buy or To Build?

[Home Life] The current demand for new homes is causing the greatest inventory shortage in the housing market in decades. Buyers can’t decide between building a home or looking for an existing one. Here are some of the pros and cons of both.

When building a home, you can get exactly what you want, where you want it, without having to settle on what is available. Houses are so scarce that many buyers are getting into bidding wars where the price becomes inflated or the amount of time to close on a home is rushed. Many offers are higher than the asking prices to increase the odds of “winning” the ability to purchase the house.

When building a new home, there is no “competition.” You control exactly what the house costs and what the finishes and amenities are. Your builder can make the changes that you desire.

Oftentimes, buyers are purchasing homes that are 10 or more years old, and the mechanical systems and the roof are halfway through their useable life. A home that is worn and in need of repair will cost thousands of dollars in the near future, while a new home will contain brand new products — many of which will include a warranty.

In the current home buying scene, people are purchasing houses that will take years

to appreciate because the prices are already at the top of the market. A newly built home will often have substantial equity by the time you move in.

One of the “cons” of building a home is the construction time. It normally takes seven to nine months to build a house, and the process can be stressful. If you are impatient and cannot make decisions quickly, building may not be the best course of action.

Understanding how to finance the construction of a new home can also be a confusing “con.” Be on the lookout for my next column, which will cover several easy methods for making your dream home a reality.

Celebrations Ribbon Cuttings,

Ground Breakings,

and

WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK Cherokee Small Business Grant Program

By Cherokee Office of Economic Development

[StrategicLife] Lili Bowen opened Bowen’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts in 1993 in Cherokee County because it felt like home. The Woodstock-based martial arts studio has been a place for the community to grow and gather ever since.

Thankfully, you do not need a black belt to see that businesses like Bowen’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts are the heart and soul of the community. Just check out the Facebook reviews:

“My children have grown up at the Academy.”

“We are lucky to have a great program so close to home.”

Stories like these are why the Cherokee Small Business Grant Program was created.

Bowen and her team were one of many small businesses to receive COVID-19 relief funding at a socially distanced drive through “check event,” held outside The Circuit – Cherokee’s first coworking space.

“Without this grant, it would not be possible for us to remain open,” Bowen said. “We are grateful to be in this giving community.”

The Cherokee Small Business Grant Program helps businesses do what they

do best, which is to grow the local economy and support our community.

In partnership with Cherokee County, the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) awarded $10K-$30K in grants to businesses that met low-to-moderate income salary requirements as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding distributed by the Cherokee County Community Development Block Grant Program.

The first round of the grant program helped retain over 100 local jobs and supported a variety of businesses such as retailers, restaurants, artisans, and local health care providers. The grants can be used for ongoing operational costs including payroll, vendors, utilities, rent, and personal protective equipment.

These grants offer critical support when businesses need it most. More importantly, they ensure that businesses can call Cherokee home for years to come.

This much-needed relief could not have come at a better time for small business owners and entrepreneurs

who are working hard to overcome pandemic-related challenges. Just ask the owners of Alma Coffee, whose roastery is located in the Holly Springs area.

“The Cherokee Small Business Grant means everything to us. Thank you to COED and Cherokee County for rallying around small businesses to help us all overcome these challenging times,” said Leticia Hutchins, Alma Coffee co-owner.

Supporting the community through good times is easy, but what about when life gets hard? This is where Cherokee shines.

Bowen said it best, “Cherokee feels like home,” a place where roots grow deep, businesses can thrive, and opportunities are limitless.

Thanks to the Cherokee Small Business Grant and county leadership, many of Cherokee’s small businesses can come through this pandemic stronger than ever. L

So, You Want To Be a Nonprofit Organization Board Member?

By Lisa-Marie Haygood

[Academic Life] Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a board member serving for a nonprofit organization? Cherokee County is full of worthwhile charities and causes, and they could all use extra hands and hearts to serve. Though bylaws vary for each organization, there are a few things you should know if you desire to serve:

What are the necessary qualifications for being a board member?

At Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF), we look for business partners, parents, and community leaders who support the work of our public schools. Being a product of the Cherokee County School District or having students who are currently enrolled is not a requirement, but it certainly helps give you an idea of what we are working for.

How long is a board member’s term?

CCEF elects members to serve a term of four years. If a member desires to continue service for an additional term after four years, he/she is eligible to return. It is important that you are committed to donating your time and talents for your full term before you commit.

What are the requirements of board members?

CCEF board members pay annual dues of $250. They are required to attend all board meetings and participate in annual fundraising activities and events. Participation might be a financial contribution or serving in a volunteer capacity.

The opportunity to serve alongside other community leaders is a great way to make friends and network for both business and personal relationships. Board members have a common cause to unite in service, and it is a great chance to work to support causes you are passionate about. Because there are limited spaces on nonprofit boards, it is crucial to fill open seats with volunteers who will give of their time and talents for the full measure of their term.

BY JESSICA ORAVEC

JESS SHOW

Jess Flynn is a typical ‘90s teenager, growing up in a small town. She likes to hang out at the mall, listen to CDs, and spend time with her friends. Her parents are super overprotective, her younger sister is sick with a rare disease, and she has just realized that she’s got a big crush on her childhood best friend. Things are not perfect, but she loves her family and her small town.

But then, things start to get weird. Half the town is struck down with a mysterious flu. Jess keeps hearing faint words that she can’t quite understand. One day, a black device with an Apple logo falls out of a friend’s bag, and Jess makes a discovery that will change everything. In the end, she will have to decide what she wants — reality or make believe.

In This is Not the Jess Show, author Anna Carey does an excellent job of creating Jess’ environment. All of the ‘90s paraphernalia is there including a CD collection complete with artists like Tori Amos, Jewel, Fiona Apple, and Alanis Morissette. As Jess’ story develops, Carey teases that all isn’t right in her world. Once the truth is uncovered, the story takes off, as Jess runs toward reality.

Although it is written for young adults, this book is relevant for everyone today, as we grapple with what is real and what is fiction — especially on social media. In the end, we all must decide how far we will go to uncover the truth. This is Not the Jess Show is like The Truman Show meets Black Mirror. It is an engaging story that will have you questioning the depths that people will sink

order to become famous.