Canton, GA July 2024

Fireflies and Freedom

As the days grow longer and the warmth of summer beckons, I am thrilled to welcome you to our "Explore Issue," an edition dedicated to the spirit of adventure and the joy of discovering the wonders around and within us.

In July, we invite you to immerse yourself in the unique and unparalleled glamping experiences at Dunya Camp. This peaceful outdoor haven boasts the world's most luxurious tents, set amidst a landscape that the Cherokee called the 'enchanted land.' Located in Summerville, NW, GA, Dunya Camp offers a one-of-a-kind retreat that will enchant you.

Prepare to be captivated by the hidden treasures and popular destinations that make living in Canton a distinctive and thrilling experience. From traversing the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains to floating or paddling down the Etowah River with Murphs Surf, there's an adventure for every taste, and each journey promises memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Exploration is more than outdoor activities or new shiny businesses; it celebrates diversity in family and backgrounds and the spirit of exploration within us all. As the Paris 2024 Olympics begin, we sit with my dear friend and USA Hall of Fame Paralympian April Holmes to hear her story of personal triumph and Gold medal hauls.

As you delve into these pages, I hope to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding us. Through compelling stories, stunning photography, and insightful features, we aim to ignite your passion for exploration and help you make the most of this splendid season. I invite you to visit our local ExploreCantonGA.com city resource for a comprehensive guide to the attractions and activities that cater to every interest.

In 2017, I chose to become an American citizen after a joyous ten years of living here in Cherokee County. I am still Aussie-born but pledged my allegiance and oath to our US flag and Republic. Let us celebrate and remember why we chose independence: Happy Fourth of July! Thank you for joining us in print, digital, and social media as we connect, collaborate, and celebrate the best of the best across Canton, GA.

This is Your City, This is Your Lifestyle.

CHICKA ELLOY, PUBLISHER @CANTONCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Karen Wright: @wrighton418

Jennifer Elloy: @elloyjenny

Emery Wolosiewicz: @emery_wolo

Alex Rogan: @Centauri_tls

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carey Hood: @careycreative1

Kendra Simons: @the_simonwest_agency

Kevin Jonas-Davis: @kdaviswhat

Christopher Fake: @PileofPixels

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn

inside the issue

PRODUCING OUTSTANDING RESULTS • CREATING GREAT EXPERIENCES TREATING OUR PATIENTS LIKE OUR OWN FAMILY MEMBERS

WHEN YOU LOOK GOOD, WE LOOK GOOD.

city scene

1: If you know, you know! Representing the 30115 at The Union Hill Grill 2: When you make birdies at Augusta National, you take selfies. He shot an 86! 3: Happy Birthday smiles from the babe! 4: Jessi, Paula, and Anna are celebrating another big sale for EveryDay Luxury Homes at Reformation 5: Canton Business Leaders supporting Hop on a Cure ALS awareness event with Sean O’Keefe Enterprises 6: Exploring the Blue Ridge Countryside aboard a custom-built, four-person electric Rail Bike! 7: The 51st Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race. The South’s oldest balloon event.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

INDEPENDENT OR CAPTIVE?

The “Captive” model in the financial industry means advisors work for one company and only sell the products offered by that company.

The “Independent” model allows financial professionals to work with multiple companies and explore all the available planning tools for their clients without bias.

Working within captive channels typically involves a limited offering set by their respective parent companies. Being independent allows the advisor, like Madison Financial & Associates, the ability to personalize a plan to fit your needs with the most competitive tools available.

As you explore different options in your area, be sure to understand the relationship that your advisor has with their broker. The planner you work with will be responsible for conducting due diligence in selecting which is the most appropriate solutions for your current and future needs.

business monthly

Escape to Blue Ridge

From outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting to family-friendly attractions, shopping, fine dining, and simple relaxation, Blue Ridge offers something for everyone. Located just 90 minutes north of Atlanta, Escape to Blue Ridge offers an extensive selection of handpicked, locally managed luxury cabins in the Blue Ridge, GA, area, ensuring a consistent and memorable experience for every guest (they have over 300 properties). Visit: EscapeToBlueRidge.com

Closing the Skills Gap

Spearheaded by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), the Be Pro Be Proud Georgia Mobile Workshop has been touring the state since 2020 to expose students to the skilled professions. The Mobile Workshop brings lifelike simulators and hands-on experience with skilled professions to students statewide, connecting them with high-demand, high-growth careers. The initiative launched its second Mobile Workshop in Cherokee County this May. Visit: BeProBeProud.org

Safer Home Services of North Metro Atlanta

Safer Home Services of North Metro Atlanta, a veteran-owned and family-operated business, offers Once-A-Year Pest Control and Termite Protection in Canton and surrounding cities in Cherokee County. Lawrence Villaseñor is committed to excellence and leads the Safer Team to ensure your home remains pest-free all year round. Trust their expertise and dedication to safeguard your home with their pest-free guarantee. Bug-free is a must this summer. Visit: SaferHomeServices.com/north-metro-atlanta

ESCAPE AND REFRESH

Renew Your Body and Mind at Dunya Camp

Ready, Set, Relax. Tucked in the corner of West Georgia, Dunya Camp provides an oasis of timeless elegance waiting to be found. Each one of the tent bungalows features an artfully designed indoor space that captures the beauty of the outdoors and the luxury of a five star resort experience. With a desire to find a quick escape from the hecticness of life, each traveler will have multiple opportunities to unwind and find their “zen” moments to regain peace and balance. Upon your arrival one traverses up a steep mountainside to gain access to the breathtaking views of the southernmost part of the Appalachian Mountains.

Breathe...one can feel the stress melting away as you arrive at your destination of rest and relaxation. Each luxury tent includes your own private three hundred sixty degree view of the mountains and valleys. Not to mention the sunsets and sunrises to revel while sipping your favorite beverage or enjoying the quiet of just being still. True relaxation would not be complete without your own private wooden sauna and jacuzzi. The outdoor amenities almost surpass the indoor glamping life…I said almost. Picture yourself in the movie “Out of Africa,” and upgrade yourself to a fivestar tent experience that rivals most resorts.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY ALEX ROGAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENDRA SIMONS

As you enter your happy place, a gorgeous king size canopy bed and antique sitting area has been designed for every guest to feel at home. Hidden out of view are a spacious rain head shower area and majestic soak tub that looks like it could take away every stress from your mind and body. Further around the corner is a perfect tiny kitchen that is fully stocked with a countertop ice maker, microwave, Nespresso coffee maker and fridge. If anything is missing, it is on purpose. No televisions or excessive digital noise to distract one from truly decompressing while here at Dunya Camp.

The owners, Sangeetha Ramkumar and her husband Saeid dreamt of a place they could escape from the hustle and bustle of Buckhead Atlanta, thus creating a space for unadulterated peace. When Saeid suggested spending three nights camping in various natural parks, Sangeetha was hesitant. Saeid, an avid camper, thrived in the great outdoors. In contrast, Sangeetha had a background in hotels, specifically in design and branding, with over a decade of experience at IHG. The notion of tent camping was far from her

comfort zone, but despite initial reservations, both agreed to give it a try. After all, stepping completely outside one's comfort zone can be exhilarating.

And exhilarating it was. Waking up early each morning to the sounds of birds and the breathtaking beauty of nature proved to be a transformative experience. The crisp, fresh air, serene landscapes, and simplicity of camp life offered a stark contrast to the fast-paced, technology-driven environment they were used to. It was a welcome and unforgettable change, leaving them feeling different in a positive way.

Upon returning from the trip, the couple reflected on their amazing experience. During their discussions, the idea of glamping emerged as a potential project they could undertake together. While familiar with the concept of glamping, it had not been a major consideration until then. The more they researched it, the more convinced they became that it was the perfect project for them. Glamping combined the best of both worlds: Saeid’s love for camping and the outdoors, and Sangeetha’s expertise in hotel design and branding.

Dunya Camp

The need to fully unpack ourselves of the burdens of life is the type of space Dunya Camp provides. Guests who pack lots of lovely clothes but end up wearing our robes the entire time they are here begin to understand that it is okay to slow down. Listen to the birds. Quiet the mind. Have a soak in the hot tub under the stars. Really connect with who you are without all the distractions. Take advantage of the self care experiences Dunya Camp has to offer. A vacation for the soul not the ego. It's so beautiful here, and beauty can be incredibly healing.

Come visit DunyaCamp.com or call to book this amazing experience (404) 793-2650

PROTECT YOUR NEW BEGINNINGS WITH LIFE INSURANCE

Let ’s talk about finding life insurance that fits you.

When a new chapter begins, get peace of mind by planning for the future. Because there’s no time like the present to financially protect their tomorrows. Tara Key, Agent T.P.

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Oncology Exercise Coaching Nutrition and Survivorship Workshops. Since 2003, TurningPoint - the 501(c)3 charity - has been a warrior in rehabilitation for breast cancer. In-Clinic and telehealth appointments are avaliable: Call

One-on-one Oncology Physical Therapy

Specialized Massage Therapy

Counseling and Support Groups

EXPLORING THE SPIRIT OF GREATNESS: FROM TRAGEDY TO VICTORY

Olympic Buzz

Be the fastest amputee in the world, represent the United States as a Paralympian, and win a GOLD!

How does one turn tragedy into triumph? Where does a person's mind go to find the courage to face a devastating accident that changes a life forever? For April Holmes, a four-time Paralympian gold and bronze medalist, digging deep inside her DNA to her competitive spirit was the only place to go!

April Holmes grew up as an ordinary, suburban kid in Somerdale, New Jersey, where her mother believed that keeping kids busy was the key to keeping them out of trouble. April was into everything: dancing, piano, performing in the Nutcracker, and recitals, which she will tell you was "not her jam." But when her uncle started an inner-city track team in Camden, New Jersey, April had found her tribe. "That's where I belonged," she said, "This is what competition looks like." April knew she had to find a way to be successful on the track so she wouldn't have to go back to dance. She had found her element and thrived in that competitive environment.

After earning a high school track and field scholarship to Norfolk State University, April finished college and stopped competing. She knew it was time to venture into the world and began working with a telecommunications company in Philadelphia. Realizing she needed something more, April started her master's degree, hoping to find more fulfillment in the workplace.

In January of 2001, April's life instantly changed while boarding a train in Philadelphia. The train began moving without warning, thrusting her under the platform of the railcar and she was trapped beneath the wheels of the train. April waited for paramedics to find a way to release her for seventeen minutes. During that time, she knew she had to "keep her mind busy so she could keep her heart beating." She used her love of music to sing and visualized herself playing with childhood friends. All of this in an effort to ease her thoughts about what was happening and after several failed attempts at releasing her, the train had to be moved, ultimately resulting in the loss of her left leg from the knee down.

While in the hospital, April spent the first hours contemplating everything she couldn't do. Devastated by the thought that she would never run or play basketball again, she couldn't see past this enormous loss. But when her surgeon brought her several magazines featuring competitive athletes with physical challenges, April's mindset began to change. Within a few hours, April had decided that the path back to her life would be competing against the best para-athletes in the world. Later, when her surgeon returned, she told him, "I have three goals: be the fastest amputee in the world, represent the United States as a Paralympian, and win a gold medal." And that's precisely what she did!

Her

“ ”

grit, perseverance, and unwavering drive have given hope and inspiration to those overcoming obstacles.

While transitioning back into running, April reminded herself she was competing against herself. "I don't do passive; I do aggressive," she said confidently. Knowing that what she needed to do was simply be better today than she was yesterday. April had been a competitor her whole life, and with a new challenge ahead of her, she relied on her faith and belief in God to carry her through.

A little over a year after losing her leg, April competed in the 2002 Disney Wide World of Sports Championship, where she broke the world record in the 100-meter race, beating her biggest competitor and checking off the first goal she had set.

April continued to dominate the track, making the International USA Team and breaking countless records. She attended her first Paralympic Games in 2004 in Athens, where she won the bronze medal for the long jump, reaching another goal. Then, in 2008, April followed with the Beijing Games, where she won the gold medal in the 100-meter event, finally reaching the pinnacle of racing success. April's paralympic dreams continued when she won the bronze in the 100-meter event in London in 2012, again showing the world that no obstacle is impossible.

As April stood on the podium in Beijing after earning her gold medal, she felt a powerful feeling that reinforced her spiritual faith in her journey. She also knew that hearing the National Anthem being played and

representing people with disabilities from around the world resulted from her belief systems, dedication, and faith that she would be used for good.

While April no longer competes on the track, she has continued using her experience to help others cross the finish line. In 2002, she started the April Holmes Foundation, a non-profit organization providing scholarships and equipment to individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. Based on her work within the foundation, the International Paralympic Committee named her one of the Top 10 Women in Paralympic Sports. In 2015, she was awarded NCAA Inspirational Athlete of the Year and later became a U.S. Paralympic and Anti-Doping ambassador. She is currently the Board Chair for the U.S. Center for SafeSport , the author of The Winning Way, and a motivational speaker.

Her grit, perseverance, and unwavering drive have given hope and inspiration to those overcoming obstacles, showing them they can also find victory and become the champions of their dreams. Visit: AprilHolmes.com

The Paralympic and Olympic Games are a time for dreams to come true. One must explore the depths of one's inner strength and endure the rigorous preparation that comes with attaining the top of the podium. Take a moment to discover all the facets of the Olympic Games this summer and the stories of each fantastic athlete.

KOOB S T O TAKEYOU AWAY

I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Blue Latitudes

BY TONY HORWITZ

Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before. The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.

The Island of Missing Trees

BY ELIF SHAFAIT

It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.

The Corfu Trilogy

BY GERALD DURRELL

Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise -  My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The

Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy

Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.

Cutting for Stone

BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE

Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, Indian-American medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.

The Museum of Innocence

BY ORHAN PAMUK

The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.

TAG US IN YOUR JULY LIFESTYLE PHOTOS AND BECOME A STAR IN OUR NEXT ISSUE

ARTICLE BY EMERY WOLOSIEWICZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY HOOD

Lazy Days of Summer

Up Yonder, Down the Etowah River

From the North Georgia Mountains, the Etowah River meanders its way toward Canton, providing visitors and residents with a beautiful water resource to enjoy and love year-round. Named by the local Native American tribes of Georgia, the Etowah River means “town.” And what a picturesque town the downtown area of Canton is to begin a lazy summer journey back in time.

From traversing bridges to lounging on sandbars, a leisurely paddle down the Etowah River with your loved ones under the warm sun is the perfect afternoon escape. Murphs Surf, nestled in the heart of Canton, offers the ideal setting for this idyllic experience. With the guidance of Mike Murphy and his dedicated team, you can craft your own unforgettable adventure.

Spanning the North and South of I-75, Murphs Surf is dedicated to providing Atlanta residents with an affordable and tranquil water experience. From their Etowah River escapades to their serene spots on Lake Allatoona, they offer opportunities to immerse yourself in the calming embrace of water. Dip your toes in, recline, and let the river wash away your stress and worries, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

From kayaking to tubing, Murphs Surf offers a range of options to help each individual connect with nature and enjoy every moment. Picture yourself spotting wildlife, sharing laughter with friends, and forgetting about the outside world that held you captive just hours ago. Choose your own adventure.

River tours via kayak or tube can be tailored to the needs of each group. All experience levels are welcome, as the river has something to offer everyone. The tranquil river will rejuvenate your spirit. No trip down the river is ever the same, so making this an annual tradition to cherish this community and its natural beauty is why we love summer in Canton.

Let Summer 2024 begin by getting involved and growing to find new relationships with the outdoors and those around you. Imagine it now.. racing your friends or children to the nearest sandbar and laughing hysterically when someone falls into the water. Breathe in all the natural beauty at your fingertips. It is not just the trip; the experience can lead to new opportunities by making lasting memories. Even when you have arrived at your final destination, linger to have a cup of ice cream or an adult beverage while enjoying a concert at The Mill. These are the moments that count. Make memories, live life, and stay in the moment. See you at the river soon. Visit Murphs store at The Mill on Etowah or online: ExploreEtowahRiver.com

“Time and tide wait for no one.”

DIY Your Way To a Bug-Free Summer

Adult- and Kid-Friendly Natural Bug Repellents from A Beautiful Mess

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY A BEAUTIFUL MESS

Adult Blend Kids Blend

(age 15 and over)

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 8 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water (minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 4 drops lavender essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water (minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

*The grain alcohol is used as a preservative as well as a carrier for the oils, but you can also use a product like this instead of grain alcohol at a 1:4 ratio (1 drop essential oil to 4 drops Solubol) if you’d rather and then just fill the rest with water to fill the 2-ounce spray bottle.

While there can be concern about citrus oils on the skin when exposed to sunlight, lemongrass isn’t a photosensitive oil, and if lemon essential oil is steam-distilled rather than cold-pressed (Oui Fresh essential oils are cold-pressed) it can be used on the skin. So just make sure to note which one your lemon oil is and only spray on clothes if you don’t have a skin-safe lemon oil (which is an application method a lot of people prefer anyway if they are more sensitive to oils).

realty report

A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CANTON, GA

A sampling of data from the top sales across Canton in May 2024.

JULY 4TH

Canton Fourth of July Celebrations

130 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 | 9:00 PM

Bring your picnic and chairs to share in the lights spectacular to honor and celebrate our great nation on the 4th of July. The fireworks show will begin at 9pm at the Riverstone Publix location, and all watchers are encouraged to find their spot several hours in advance. Parade and Independence Day celebrations will happen in the city center of Downtown Canton from 6-9pm.

JULY 4TH

Float for the Fourth of July

225 Reformation Parkway Canton, GA 30115 | 10:00 AM

Join us on July 4th for a Float Party down the Etowah River! Murphs Surf & Shop and Reformation Brewery bring you the ultimate July 4th experience. Tickets include your choice of kayak or tube, drink voucher and a swag bag packed with goodies to make sure you have the best time possible!  MurphsSurf.com

JULY 5TH

Downtown Canton First Friday

130 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 | 6:00 PM

Singer Mark Willis will be performing along with Tyson Leamon for a dynamite show to bring all of Canton together for a wonderful time. Remember to bring your chairs early to claim a spot for this great event. Vendors and shops will be open to host all ages that come out to celebrate America and what is means to neighborly. CantonGa.Gov

JULY 12TH

Southern Tradition Auto Show

Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton, GA, 30114 | 10:00 AM

A fun, family atmosphere at the biggest park in Cherokee County, Etowah River Park. Every year this show gets bigger and bigger. Best part... there is such a huge variety of vehicles from mini-trucks to lifted trucks, classics and hot rods. This is a show you definitely want to put on your list. SouthernTraditionShow.com

JULY 20TH

7th Annual Music Festival at Cumming Fairgrounds

235 Castleberry Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 | 12:00 PM

Presented by 37 Main! All ages are welcome, gates open at noon, and there will be food trucks and more! Don’t miss out on this epic lineup and family-friendly atmosphere!  MUST SEE Tributes to Fleetwood Mac, Bee Gees, Eagles, Def Leppard, Van Halen, Nirvana, Linkin Park, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars for a BATTLE OF THE DECADES! Visit: 37main.com/cityofcummingmusicfestival2024

JULY 22ND

The Atlanta Open: U.S. Open Tennis Series

Atlantic Station | 6:00 PM

Looking for a family friendly event to attend outside of Canton. The Atlanta Open returns to Atlantic Station July 22-30 with action-packed matchups to kick off the U.S. Open Tennis series. Among the tennis stars on hand will be six-time Atlanta Open champ John Isner and rising stars Taylor Fritz and Reilly Opelka. Atlanta’s own Coco Gauff and Leylah Fernandez also will play. AtlantaOpenTennis.com

RED BARN

At Red Barn Construction, our focus is not just on timeless design; we construct homes with longevity in mind. These homes are crafted to cater to your family and endure for generations to come.

We built Red Barn Homes "from the ground up", meticulously overseeing all construction processes to ensure they meet the high standards expected by both our team and customers.