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1

Dear Readers,

With the political temperature cooled down from that fever pitch, a season arrives that clears our minds of yard signs and campaign stickers. We can finally exhale.

We can now entertain the idea of going to our grandparents’ house for Thanksgiving dinner and inviting the whole family over for Christmas Day. Sound trivial? Not really. We could use the break. With lots of ups and downs this year, it might be good medicine for us to make the season as stress-free as possible. That doesn’t mean skipping it, quite the contrary.

If it makes you happy to decorate your house with 14 trees, go for it. Go ahead and light your entire roofline and garage, if your HOA doesn’t mind, that is. If you don’t care to do more than to stick a candle in a Chia Pet, light it up.

While you’re getting comfy with this idea, consider more. You really don’t have to suffer the interstate traffic, parking lots, checkout lines or lack of help in searching for gifts at the mega malls. Save yourself such grief by discovering some of the fine merchants you’ll find tucked neatly within our pages. It’s Christmas shopping at its easiest and best, right here, near home. Easy access, terrific personal service, quality and unique gifts all at the right prices await your visit. You’ll find it refreshing to see lovely shops and stores come alive!

So go all in. Enjoy your holidays and get ready for a great new year!

The Editors

You are also invited to visit our websiteat www.enjoycherokee.com. Click to Enjoy!

Welcome

CHEROKEE

24

20

8

CHEROKEE

On the Cover: Tim Cavender, Cherokee’s own Santa Claus, appears on our cover and you can also see him at the Governor’s Mansion on December 2nd.

1 Welcome

4 Holiday Tradition & Legacy of Love

6 Phil Gingrey

8 Backstage at The Nutcracker

10 New Hope for Cancer Patients - Northside Hospital Cherokee

12 Canton Theatre - The Art Within

14 Check Out These Local Small Businesses

18 The Melding of Voices Across the Decades

20 Decoration, Recreation & Inspiration!

23 Edward Jones Financial Focus

24 Believe! Up Close with Hometown Santa Clause

26 O, Little Town of Bethlehem

32 Call to Serve District Attorney-Elect Shannon Wallace

36 The Gift That Makes A Difference Cherokee FOCUS

43 Events Calendar

enjoy! cherokee TM magazine is published in partnership by Tri-State Communications and Advertising Dynamics, Inc. 706.290.0202 info@adigeorgia.com For Advertising, contact: 678.454.9350 or sales@enjoycherokee.com

enjoy! cherokee magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space availability, and to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication. No reproduction of printed materials is permitted without the consent of the Publisher. enjoy! cherokee magazine is published in partnership with Tri-State Communications and Advertising Dynamics, Inc.,

© Copyright 2012 by Advertising Dynamics, Inc. All rights reserved.

TM

www.cobbemc.com

Start making a difference today!

www.cobbemc.com/communitysupport or call 770-429-2100.

n Operation Round Up® Round up your bill to help others.

n Project Share Your contribution provides power to the disabled, elderly and others in need.

You can help empower our community during the holidays and all year long.

Cobb In Focus OR Nov-Dec ad-dre3.indd 1 9/27/12 1:45 PM

4

Cherokee Thanksgiving is a community sponsored programthat provides Thanksgiving meals to local residents

HolidayTradition kLegacy

of Love

5

Pass the Turkey...Volunteer: If you would like to help prepare, serve, deliver or help with cleanup for Cherokee Thanksgiving, you can find out about volunteering by emailing CTVolunteer2012@gmail.com or calling 678-788-4871. Currently the biggest need is for volunteers on Thanksgiving Day from noon to 4 p.m., but opportunities are available throughout the day starting at 9 a.m.

Donate: Monetary donations can be sent to: Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Rd., Canton, GA 30114. Please note on the check: Attention Cherokee Thanksgiving.

Request a meal: If you know of someone who would like a meal delivered, or would like to reserve a spot in the dining room, please call 770-365-3471 and leave a message. Everyone is welcome.

As Don and Lila Stevens of Canton gathered around the table for Thanksgiving with their family more than 20 years ago, they noted how blessed they were and decided that the next year they would do something to help those who were not as fortunate. “So we brainstormed, we got a corporate sponsor to donate the turkeys, and we rounded up volunteers. I look back now and I laugh…we didn’t have a clue what we were doing,” Don Stevens says. “On Thanksgiving Day we ended up with about 200 volunteers, but only about 75 people showed up to eat.”

That was the genesis of Cherokee Thanksgiving, a community supported event that provided more than 2,000 tasty smoked turkey and made-from-scratch dressing meals last Thanksgiving to area residents who requested a little help. There is no screening process for requests. “Anyone, and everyone, is welcome,” emphasizes the current program coordinator Cheryl Mosley. “Perhaps they aren’t up to cooking a meal or just don’t want to be alone on Thanksgiving—it doesn’t matter what the reason is. We are happy to bring them a meal or serve them in our dining hall.” Mosley notes that the majority of the meals are delivered to local families who prefer to dine in their own home on Thanksgiving. “But we also accommodate seniors in assisted living homes or anyone else who would rather not dine alone. We will get them here if they need a ride.”

Mosley, who started out seven years putting silverware in the to-go boxes for the event, took over the reins of the program the next year at Don Stevens’ request along with co-coordinators Lori Ann Brogdon and Barbara Fulbright. She says that the event is truly a community endeavor. “We have more than 125 volunteers, old and young—Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Heritage girls—providing a variety of services—from smoking the turkeys to making the spice cake and cornbread or rolling the silverware. A lot of families get together every year and serve together. Last year the gentleman who makes the potatoes every year, Art Gilcrest, was teaching his grandson how to do it. For many families volunteering together at Cherokee Thanksgiving has become a holiday tradition that they look forward to. Some families have been doing this since the event started 20 years ago,” Mosley notes.

Buddy and Susan Chumbler and their daughters say it just wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without helping out at Cherokee Thanksgiving. “We’ve been doing this for about 14 years,” says Susan Chumbler. “One year we made plans to get together with family instead, and it just didn’t feel right to any of us. A few years back we inherited the job of making the dressing. My girls know how to make it now, and we enjoy all the excitement on Thanksgiving Day.”

The Chumblers, the Stevens and Mosley are members of Canton First United Methodist Church where the event is held. But Mosley notes that most of the volunteers are not affiliated with the church, and everyone is welcome to contribute. “We always seem to end up with an abundance of volunteers, but currently we are in need of monetary donations and volunteers for delivery and cleanup.”

If you would like to help this Thanksgiving, perhaps start a new family tradition, please email CTVolunteer2012@gmail.com or call 678-788-4871 for more information.

6

Through his experiences as a physician and elected official, Phil Gingrey has gotten to know Georgians

of all stripes pretty well over the years. Whetherthrough delivering thousands of babies over 30 years

or representing Georgians in 20 different counties,our new Congressman is a familiar face who,

in many ways, will soon be returning to his roots.

PhilGingrey

7

By the time he began serving in the U.S. House of Representatives in January of 2003, Congressman Gingrey had already become well versed in public service. He served four years on the Marietta City School Board and spent another four years as a State Senator before running for Congress in 2002.

When Gingrey was elected to the House, the 11th Congressional District of Georgia spanned 17 counties between Chattooga and Muscogee. A mid-decade round of redistricting reduced the 11th to nine counties between Gordon and Carroll, and starting in January of next year, the 11th District will include Bartow and Cherokee Counties, as well as parts of Cobb and Fulton.

For the Congressman, serving Cherokee County constituents, which he represented during his tenure as State Senator, will mean reconnecting with many old friends.

“In many ways, it feels like coming home,” Gingrey said. “My favorite—and I believe most important—aspect of this job is meeting the families who live in the 11th Congressional District. Visiting different communities, touring businesses, and listening to what makes people tick allows me to serve them more effectively in Washington.” Gingrey credits his years as a physician in his approach to legislating.

“In many ways, it feels like coming home,” Gingrey said. “My favorite—and I believe most important—aspect of this job is meeting the families who live in the 11th Congressional District. Visiting different communities, touring businesses, and listening to what makes

people tick allows me to serve them more effectively in Washington.”

(continued on page 30)

8

The Silberhaus family is hosting their annual Christmas party, welcoming the arrival of their family and friends. The children, Clara and Fritz, are dancing and playing as they welcome their friends, too. And so begins the magical tale of “The Nutcracker,” the holiday ballet that immerses the audience in Clara’s fanciful dream about a Mouse King, a Prince, an enchanted forest with dancing snowflakes and everyone’s favorite Sugar Plum Fairy.

Back Stage at...

The Nutcracker Ballet When the stage lights come up at The Falany Performing Arts Center, it is Christmas Eve at

the Silberhaus’s house...a grand home with the most beautiful

Christmas tree imaginable. (continued on page 28)

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Cancer—it’s one of the most dreaded words in our language. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a frightening experience. But the good news is that you can receive the best available care right here in Cherokee County at Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute. Recognized nationally as a leader in cancer diagnosis, treatment and research, Northside is the only Atlanta area hospital chosen to be a Community Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute. In fact, the medical director of Northside Hospital’s NCI Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP), Guilherme Cantuaria, MD, PhD, has been nominated by his peers to co-chair the Program’s national clinical trials subcommittee. This prestigious honor will allow Cantuaria to develop, initiate and conduct innovative clinical trials that will benefit patients both nationally and here.

“This nomination is in recognition not of my work but of the work that we have done at Northside’s Cancer Institute. It is a huge honor to have been elected by my peers to co-chair this clinical trials initiative. This nomination gives me the opportunity to expand access to clinical trials and to bring cutting-edge research and treatment to local hospitals—not just select academic centers,” Cantuaria notes. “Through research, we can expand the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease, ensuring that current and future patients have earlier access to the best care and the latest therapies, often in circumstances where conventional care fails them.”

The NCCCP is a collaborative network of community hospitals working to expand cancer research, enhance access to cancer care, and improve the quality of care for cancer patients served by community hospitals in urban, suburban and rural areas, with an emphasis on under served populations. The network serves approximately

for Cancer Patients

NEWHopeRecognized nationally as a leader in cancer diagnosis,

treatment and research, Northside Hospital is the

only Atlanta area hospital chosen to be a Community

Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute

Northside Hospital -Cherokee’s Cancer Institute

• Treats all kinds of adult cancers, with specialties in breast, prostate and gynecologic (GYN) cancer

• Diagnoses and treats more women with breast cancer than any other hospital in the Southeast

• Treats more cases of GYN and prostate cancer than any other hospital in Georgia

• Has the best survival rates in the nation for bone marrow transplants

• Offers numerous clinical trials, some of which are only available within a university setting.Hope

53,000 new cancer cases each year. A member of the NCCCP since 2010, Northside is one of only 21 sites nationwide and the only hospital in Metro Atlanta to have this honor.

At Northside Hospital-Cherokee, patients have access to a full array of services including radiation therapy, imaging, surgery, and support services—regardless of their cancer diagnosis. Patient navigators help make each patient’s journey a little easier by offering the latest cancer information and coordinating each step of the patient’s treatment process , from scheduling and insurance to clinical trials, housing and transportation. Northside also partners with The Cancer Support Community - Atlanta to provide support groups and a variety of educational workshops, stress reduction classes and social events to help patients learn that they are not alone in their fight for recovery. Free programs are available at Northside Hospital-Cherokee to patients, survivors and their families and friends.

Cantuaria says that it was the complexity and challenge of oncology that initially attracted him to the field. “It’s a specialty that is on the cutting edge of biological research and it is constantly pushing the frontiers of our understanding.” He adds that the patient and family interactions are also very rewarding. “As an oncologist and surgeon, I frequently have the opportunity to make a positive and valued contribution to patients during a very difficult time in their lives—one that will never be forgotten. In this specialty, my patients are often confronting the most serious life issue that anyone has to deal with in their lifetimes. Being able to help them is very rewarding.”

Cancer researchers have a greater understanding of cancer than ever before, according to Cantuaria. “We’ve made great strides with new personalized targeted medicines. Many researchers believe that we are currently in the midst of a revolution in cancer treatment that offers great hope for patients with options that directly impacts the cancer growth with fewer side effects. We have never been in a better position to advance cancer treatment.”

With the continued development of the NCCCP network, cancer patients across the country who are treated at community hospitals will have improved access to these new innovative drug therapies.

It may seem plain to some, but the structure of Art Deco is based upon mathematical geometric shapes. This modernistic style came at a time in U.S. history, flanked between two World Wars and during the Great Depression, where this art form was considered a celebratory response by artists seeking elegant, classic lines to represent practicality with just enough aesthetic to inspire hope. F. Scott Fitzgerald was quoted as saying that Art Deco was inspired by “all the nervous energy stored up and expended in the War.” Two great examples of famous Art Deco buildings are The Empire State Building and Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

While the outside of the Canton Theatre may appear minimalist, when you enter the front doors into the lobby, you will feel like Dorothy opening her farmhouse door into the Technicolor Oz. Mayor Cecil Pruett, Canton based Architect Mark Robillard and Master Craftsman Kevin Quinn collaborated in 2000 to create a masterpiece out of practically nothing. Mark recalls that through many years of neglect the Theatre’s interior was a mess. While he was able to repair the exterior, with an addition of a brand new, backlit marquee, the interior had deteriorated to the point that he was working with a blank canvas.

One of those “blanks” included the truss girders that used to hold up a now nonexistent balcony. It had been removed at some point and everyone agreed that it needed to be put back into place to create more seating and a brand new meeting space. Other renovations included

12

CANTON THEATRE

The ArTWiThinIn downtown Canton, there

is a “gem” along E. Main Street that draws your attention due to its Art

Deco architecture. Nestled between traditional, red-bricked storefronts, the

historical Canton Theatre prominently displays a style representative of

the modern, decorative arts movement that

became popular at the Paris World’s Fair in 1925

and ended around the New York World’s Fair in 1939. Clean lines,

symmetrical elongated windows and four, small

round windows adorn the flat, cream colored blocks.

In the middle is a simple triangular, two-sided sign

that announces, in a font indicative

of the era, THEATRE.

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vintage theater chairs that were purchased, re-stained and reupholstered along with architectural details such as ceiling medallions, decorative brick pilasters (columns) and the “playful” frogs which are cast in the capstones at the edge of the stage. The exposed brick and rich color palette they chose creates a sophisticated and opulent atmosphere.

The Grand Staircase, however, is a testament to the exacting detail and creativity that was exhibited by this team under the visionary direction of the Mayor along with the City of Canton and Downtown Development Authority. “We wanted to blow you away from the start with that monumental Grand Staircase,” says Mark Robillard. “Kevin Quinn was the Master Craftsman who built it. As a side note, Kevin was also responsible for building a staircase for Elton John in his condominium at Colony Square.” No detail was spared in this renovation, down to the image of the front of the building, graphically replicated on the glass panels on the interior. To this day, it has been one of Mark’s favorite projects.

The Canton Theatre has held up well since that time and hosts a variety of theater groups and musical acts. The next time you visit the Canton Theatre, look around at the art of the building (don’t miss the frogs on the stage) because you may go home talking about that as much as the performance you just saw.

14

Shoppers and consigners come from all across North Georgia to Fun Finds and Designs, an upscale furniture and home décor consignment shop in Canton. “It’s a different store every day,” says owner Betty Anderson. “You never

know what you are going to find here. We have an ever changing inventory of beautiful unique merchandise.” When you first enter the store you may wonder if it’s really consignment. “It is always a pleasure to assure our customers that 90 percent of the store’s merchandise is consigned, and to educate them on how the many styles of furniture and other home décor pieces can be mixed and matched in a beautiful and coordinated way,” affirms Anderson.

Downtown Woodstock is a new destination for women in the area who want a versatile wardrobe of unique quality clothing pieces. Dismero, an upscale Italian boutique, offers beautiful clothing that combines up-to-date elements

with timeless style. It’s a store like none other in the area. Italian Designer Andy D’Auria offers designer originals, classically tailored, mix-and-match pieces that can be worn season after season. Dismero, headquartered in Verona, Italy, features four collections a year. The collections include chic-but-casual tops, jackets, trousers, sweaters and jeans designed to fit and flatter.

Looking for the perfect dress, unique jewelry, a birthday or baby gift? What a Girl Wants, a family-owned gift and clothing boutique in Canton has it all. “Working together has always been a dream of ours,” says Lisa

There are more reasons than ever to support local small businesses. Patronizing independently owned businesses contributes to community and neighborhood preservation, a stronger local economy and environmental sustainability. Fortunately for residents in Cherokee County there are numerous local entrepreneurs offering a wide selection of unique merchandise and services—you can find most of what you are looking for right in your own backyard. The county is actually home to several unique retail businesses that attract customers from across the region. Here are a few you may want to check out.

CHECK OUTThese Local Small Businesses

Castleberry who owns the shop along with her two daughters. “Don’t let the name fool you. What a Girl Wants is not only for little girls, we have things for all ages. We enjoy helping our customers find the perfect gift or outfit for any occasion.” They offer complimentary gift packaging and other personal touches at What a Girl Wants and you will always find a sale and feel welcome while you shop.

Three Sisters Gifts and Home Accents in Hickory Flat is another popular family-owned shopping destination that makes shopping easy. When you visit here, you know you will be greeted with a smile, have all the best gifts to choose from,

and leave with a beautifully packaged gift, always complimentary. You’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list at Three Sisters! Select from only the best lines - PANDORA, Brighton, Vera Bradley, Treska, KAVU, Waxing Poetic, Life is good, Mud Pie, Klutz, Willow Tree, Crabtree & Evelyn, Tervis Tumblers, Beatriz Ball, Glory Haus, Natural Life, It’s A Girl Thing, Tyler & Trapp Candles, NuMe Natural Soap, Woodstock Chimes, just to name a few.

River Fine Jewelry in Canton is a family-owned full-service jewelry store that offers that same characteristic personal service and attention that larger retailers just can’t duplicate. “We are a true family business—we treat our customers like members of our

family,” says A. J. Ehican. In addition to offering a large selection of fine jewelry at various price points, the store makes custom jewelry and offers watch and jewelry repair.

(continued on page 16)

Indulge in the

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16

(Check Out continued from page 14)

Wildcat on a Wing, a gallery which showcases fine American crafts, has been a popular shopping destination for 13 years in Ball Ground. “We feature the work of many artists from across the country and offer a variety of quality

crafted merchandise in a range of prices,” says owner Julie Boone. It’s a great place to find unique gifts for everyone on your list this holiday season. Handcrafted jewelry, soap, pottery, birdhouses and clocks—all made in the USA—are just a few of the items in the ever changing selection.

Another Ball Ground attraction is Amos’ BBQ. It’s not unusual for foodies to drive here from an hour away for a good plate of authentic barbecue. From breakfast biscuits to fall off the bone ribs, you won’t find better barbecue anywhere. “We’re

nothing fancy—just tasty, slow cooked, fresh food,” says owner Paul Johnson. The restaurant is housed in a rescued building that was formerly the caretaker’s house at an old Dunwoody estate belonging to the Spruill family. Johnson says Amos’ BBQ would love to cater your holiday event. “We will cook onsite with our professional wood-fired barbecue or prepare the food for your function at the restaurant and deliver it ready to serve.”

Tea Leaves and Thymes, a traditional English Tearoom and gift shop in Woodstock, is another popular regional destination especially during the holidays. Tea time takes on an extra level of enchantment with special hosts and hostesses

Santa and Mrs. Claus and the Nutcracker dancers. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also host a special holiday breakfast several mornings in December, and the remaining Saturday mornings Princess Belle will host Christmas breakfast. Reservations are required for these memory-making holiday events.

Want to look your best for the holiday festivities? Price Permanent Cosmetics and Spa in Woodstock is one of those gifts you can enjoy giving yourself. “At Price Permanent Cosmetics and Spa we strive to reveal your natural beauty by

enhancing your features using skin care products and services and permanent cosmetics,” says owner Carla Price. “We are proud to deliver the highest value of service and product in the industry. We have the latest technology, which enables us to deliver the

best results to our clients. Each of our service providers has 10 or more years of experience in our specialty fields, and continuing education is a top priority.”

Need some stress relief during the holidays? LaVida Massage in Canton is a therapeutic massage center for all ages and genders, that caters to the needs of people from all walks of life. “After intense research into the field

of massage, we decided that this was a business that we could feel good about bringing to the community to hopefully help people with stress management and the physical discomforts that interfere with a person’s overall enjoyment of life. We can provide this to everyone at a very affordable price,” affirms owner Mike Spidel.

Another local service that can make your holidays merrier is Live Clean Inc., a cleaning service that has been serving local families and businesses for more than 20 years. “We can spruce up your home before or after a special

holiday party or arrange to clean your home on a regular basis,” says owner Tracey Satterfield.

If chronic pain threatens to take some of the joy from your holidays, perhaps you should visit Dr. Eric Cavaciuti of the Georgia Medical Treatment Center in Canton. At this practice medical doctors and chiropractors work together to

treat your pain with a plan designed especially for you following a thorough evaluation. This integrative approach to pain management utilizes the latest innovations from both disciplines for optimal pain relief and overall improved health. Georgia Medical Treatment Center also offers an integrated managed weight-loss program that uses medication, counseling and moderate exercise to help patients succeed at losing weight and keeping it off.

If what you really want for Christmas is some space, consider calling Outdoor Porch and Patio in Marble Hill to see about adding that additional living space you have always wanted. Made of flexible, heavy-duty vinyl

and sturdy aluminum frames, Eze-Breeze panels fit virtually any opening to turn a covered patio, screened porch, or gazebo into a flexible leisure space that can be enjoyed year-round.

18

They are your neighbors—teachers, lawyers, housewives and businessmen—and they are sopranos, tenors, altos and basses. When these people from all walks of life gather and sing as members of the Cherokee Chorale, they transcend their personal limits; their voices and talents blend and harmonize to create evocative, beautiful music. For more than 25 years the Chorale has been providing locals who are passionate about choral singing with the opportunity to experience and share this alchemy of music.

The Chorale’s artistic director and conductor, Dr. Don Stafford, co-founded the thriving group in 1988 and is among the nearly 20 charter members who still perform with the group. He recently retired after teaching music for 30 years in public schools and has been the choir director at Canton First United Methodist Church for more than 20 years. “Music is my life’s work,” he affirms.

Stafford says the original intent when they founded the Chorale was to offer local singers an opportunity to perform serious art music for their enjoyment and enrichment as well as offer musical enrichment

of the community. “And we continue to do that. We have created a large group of people who enjoy singing and being together. Guest conductors remark that there is a sweet spirit evident in our Chorale. We have some professional musicians in our group, but there are no big egos—just nice friendly people who enjoy singing together,” explains Stafford.

The Cherokee Chorale launches their 25th silver anniversary season with their annual Christmas program. For about the price of a movie ticket you can enjoy a special holiday performance presented by the Chorale titled “Good News and Great Joy.” The program, presented on Dec. 8 and 9, will be led by veteran Chorale conductors Jenny Rawson and John Barker and will include tried and true favorites such as “Caroling, Caroling” and “Ding Dong Merrily on High” and a snappy spiritual titled “Go Where I Send Thee.” Stafford says the program will also include several beautiful anthems that you may not be familiar with such as John Rutter’s “Blow, Blow Thou Winter Wind” or “What Sweeter Music.” Some selections will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra and others will be performed a cappella or with piano only.

A Melding of

Voicesa c r o s s t h e d e c a d e s

One of the highlights of this program will be the world premiere of a Christmas anthem written by composer Joan Pinkston and commissioned in celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Cherokee Chorale. “It will be my privilege and pleasure to conduct this work. Hopefully this will be a fun challenge, and it’s exciting for us to have the Cherokee Chorale’s name on a printed piece of music…forever,” Stafford notes.

The Chorale’s 2012-2013 season includes two other programs: their spring program that is traditionally the most challenging, and their pops program that features choral renditions of popular tunes. The 2013 spring concert, “The Enchanted Isle, Celebrating Ireland,” will be a tribute to the Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, and will be directed by Stafford and another seasoned conductor George Broom. Several of the selections Broom is conducting will be accompanied by the New Horizons band, according to Stafford.

The Spring Pops program will be led by returning conductors Melissa Arasi and Wes Stoner. Stafford says “Night at the Copacabana” will be a program that you will not want to miss. “A few titles include ‘Mac the Knife,’ ‘Day-O,’ ‘I Only Have Eyes for You’ and Missy’s own arrangement of ‘Copacabana.’ There is no doubt that this will be another hit program to draw our fabulous 25th Season to a close.”

Have you always wanted to perform with a choral group? Stafford says they are always looking for new members—young or old—with a passion for singing and the desire to perform more challenging programs. The Chorale holds new-member auditions before practice begins for the next program. So auditions for the spring program are slated for January 6. If you would like to audition, visit their website CherokeeChorale.org for more information. Chorale photography: Jack Tuszynski

RiverFINE JEWELRY

20

Are you dreading dragging out the same worn-out Christmas decorations again this year? Need some Christmas merriment and fresh ideas to spruce up your home and light up your Spruce for the holidays? You can discover fun new decorating ideas, enjoy time with friends and support local charities when you attend local holiday home tours in the coming month.

Slated for Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10 - 11, the Junior Service League of Woodstock Holiday Tour of Homes first began in 1997. Since its inception, the tour has raised over $315,500, allowing the JSL to invest in the lives of needy citizens of Cherokee County. The Holiday Tour of Homes features exquisite homes in Woodstock and Canton that are professionally decorated for the holidays by local designers. “Each home has unique features that make it distinctive. Visitors will be able to get numerous holiday decorating ideas to make their own homes more festive for the holiday season,” notes Jean Paulo, JSL president.

Homes on the tour include: the Erdeman home in Bridgemill, the Birdsong home in Eagle Watch, the Spennato home in Towne Lake Hills East and the Ashton Woods Home in Woodstock Knoll - The Overlook. All of the homes are professionally decorated, and you may visit each home at any time during the tour hours. Tickets are $20 and can be preordered at jslwoodstock.org or purchased at Collective Co-op in Woodstock. All preordered tickets can be picked up at the BridgeMill Home during the tour. You will be able to purchase tickets during the tour at any of the homes.

Proceeds this year will be benefiting: Bethesda Community Clinic in Canton, GA, Timothy’s Cupboard, Court Appointed Special Advocates and Georgia Canines for Independence. In 2011, $17,000 went to: MUST Ministries, Georgia Canines for Independence, Meals on Wheels, Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, Court Appointed special Advocates, Hillside Christmas Angels, Never Alone and Papa’s Pantry.

The Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club Presents their 2012 Christmas Tour of Homes on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1-2. from 1-5 p.m. each afternoon. The four homes included on the 2012 Christmas Tour are:• The home of Richard and Kim Avery, 128 Fairway

Overlook• The home of Scott and Julie Cullins, 217 Jeffrey

Drive• The home of Todd and Kelli Ketcham, 4081 Hickory

Fairway Drive• The home of Wick and Terry Smith, 507 Avery

Creek Pointe

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(continued on page 22)

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The cost of the Tour, which is the Club’s biggest fundraiser, is only $15 per person and is open to anyone age 12 and older. Tickets may be purchased beginning November 1 from any member of the Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club and from the following retail locations: Chamberhouse in Canton; Christine’s Creations, Pineapple Park,The Whole Nine Yarns and House and Garden Boutique in Woodstock; The Ivy Garden Gift Boutique & Salons in Holly Springs; and Three Sisters in Hickory Flat. Tickets may also be purchased on the two tour days at the Bradshaw Farm Community Clubhouse from 12:30 until 5 p.m. In addition to hosting four beautiful homes to visit, the Women’s Club will raffle off a lovely, handmade Christmas quilt stitched by Club founder, Carol Smith. This exquisite quilt will be on display, and raffle tickets may be purchased from Women’s Club members prior to the Tour and at the home of Scott and Julie Cullins during the Tour,” explains Carolyn Sanford of the Women’s Club. The drawing will be held at the conclusion of the Tour on Sunday afternoon. Raffle tickets are priced 1 for $5, or 3 for $10. For your holiday entertainment, the Christmas Tour will also feature a unique musical duo comprised of Bradshaw Farm residents Delores Grimm playing the guitar and Judy Griffin on the hammered dulcimer. “We’re delighted to have these two talented musicians performing lovely traditional Christmas music both Saturday and Sunday, 2- 4 p.m. at one of the featured homes, the Smith home,” Sanford says. “During the tour, the Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club will serve light refreshments at the Clubhouse. Restroom facilities will be available until 5 p.m. at the Clubhouse both days,” she adds. The Women’s Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to volunteerism and giving to the local community. According to Sanford, all proceeds raised go to many deserving Cherokee County charities such as the Hope Center, Family Violence Center, Next Step Ministries, Anna Crawford Children’s Center, Meals on Wheels through the Cherokee County Senior Citizen’s Center, YMCA Day Camp, Must Ministries, Special Olympics, Animal Shelter, Habitat for Humanity, local sheriff and fire departments, local schools—including a scholarship for a deserving Sequoyah High School graduating senior. Last year, 2011, the Christmas Tour raised $8,500, the largest amount ever. “Combined with other fundraisers throughout the year we were able to donate more than $ 12,000 to our community. We were thrilled to raise the largest total ever for our Community Outreach,” affirms Sanford.

Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club2012 Christmas Tour of HomesWhen: Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1-2 from 1-5 p.m. each dayWhere: Four homes in the Bradshaw Farm neighborhood, which is located on East Cherokee Drive in Hickory FlatTickets: Admission is $15 per person and is open to anyone age 12 and older. Tickets may be purchased beginning Nov. 1 from any member of the Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club and from the following retail locations:· Chamberhouse, 145 West Main St., Canton· Christine’s Creations, 109 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock· House and Garden Boutique, 103 Bowles Drive, Woodstock· The Ivy Garden Gift Boutique & Salons, 113 Palm St., Holly Springs· Pineapple Park, 240 Chambers St., Woodstock· Three Sisters, Hickory Flat Village, Canton· The Whole Nine Yarns, 8826 Main St., Woodstock

Junior Service League of Woodstock’s16th Annual Holiday Tour of HomesWhen: Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and a candlelight tour 6- 8 p.m. and Nov. 11, noon - 5 p.m.Where: Four area homes that are located in BridgeMill, Eagle Watch, Towne Lake Hills East and Woodstock Knoll- The Overlook.Tickets: Presale tickets are available online for $20 at JSLWoodstock.org. or at Collective Co-op on Main Street in Woodstock. Preordered tickets can be picked up at the Bridge Mill home on the day of the tour, and tickets may be purchased during the tour at any of the homes.

(Decorations continued from page 20)

Like everyone else, you hope to remain physically and financially independent your entire life. And you may well achieve this goal. Nonetheless, the future is not ours to see, so you’ll want to prepare yourself for as many contingencies as possible — one of which is the high cost of long-term care.

As you may know, long-term care primarily refers to nursing home expenses, but it also includes services provided in your own home. In either case, though, it could be expensive.

The national average rate for a private room in a nursing home was more than $87,000 per year in 2011, according to the 2011 MetLife Market Survey of Long-Term Care Costs. The same survey found that the average private-pay hourly rates for home health aides and homemaker companion services were $21 and $19, respectively.

With luck, of course, you won’t need to worry about these types of expenses. But consider this: People who reach age 65 have a 40% chance of entering a nursing home, according to a study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And about 10% of those who enter a nursing home will stay there five or more years.

Clearly, if you take no steps to prepare yourself for the potentially devastating costs of an extended nursing home stay, you could be jeopardizing the assets you’ve worked so hard to accumulate. Even worse, if you run through your money, you might end up creating a financial and emotional burden for your grown children.

Unfortunately, many people assume that a federal or state government program will help them pay for their long-term care expenses. However, Medicare pays only a small portion of nursing home costs, and to be eligible for Medicaid, you would likely have to divest yourself of most of your financial assets. Consequently, you’ll probably need to find another way to pay for long-term care.

Fortunately, there are investment or protection vehicles designed specifically to help you meet long-term care expenses. Your financial advisor can help you pick the option that’s most appropriate for your individual situation.

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24

Believe!Up Close with Hometown Santa ClausMany boys growing up in the 70s aspired to become major league baseball players, rock stars or even astronauts. Few likely considered donning a red suit and beard and becoming Santa Claus. But when Tim Cavender, then 14, volunteered for the role for a holiday assembly at Cherokee High School, he discovered that he liked portraying the perennially popular mythical character. “I was a little hesitant at first, but I was surprised by the hollering and warm reception I received. And I realized that even teenagers and adults have that child-at-heart feeling when they see Santa Claus,” Cavender explains.

The next year, he was recruited to be Santa once again...and things just sort of “snow-balled” from there. For the past 38 years, as fall has turned into winter, Cavender has turned into a right jolly old elf. For this Ball Ground native, becoming Santa isn’t about picking up a little extra holiday money—it’s a service of love and a way to give back to the community that has been his home all his life. Much of his time during the holidays is devoted to spreading some holiday cheer with local non-profits, Toys for Tots and Channel 11’s Can-a-thon. “I think you have to have a calling for this. This is my way of giving back to my community and to those I love most. I don’t ever want to deprive any child of the opportunity to see Santa because they don’t have enough money,” Cavender, public information officer for the Cherokee County Fire Department, notes.

Cavender recalls his first visit with Santa was frightening, and he has deliberately endeavored to give kids a more positive Santa experience than his—a boisterous Santa in a cheap suit, stick-on beard and painted-on rosy cheeks who made him cry at age 6. He gives great attention to every aspect of his appearance and often reigns in the jolliness; remaining calm and listening quietly instead. “I don’t want children to be disappointed when they see me. I love it so much and enjoy doing it, and that is the key to the whole thing. You have to have a heart for children and a love for the image of Santa Claus in order to pull this off correctly. For me it’s such a joy and honor to be able to get out there and visit with a lot of children and create a little fantasy and magic for them.”

In recent years, novice Santas from across the country have looked to Cavender for guidance, inquiring about his theatrical whiskers, costuming techniques, how to work with children, media relations and more. With 38 years of experience under his wide leather belt, he is a sought after consultant and a popular lecturer at Santa conventions. Cavender says being Santa requires a childlike mindset, patience and knowledge. “You have to know all the reindeer’s names because kids expect you to know these things.”

He enjoys training other Santas, but his greatest joy is making magical moments and memories for the kids who come to sit in his lap and share their wishes. A few years ago, he was an

25

Up Close with Hometown Santa Claus

Want to Meet the Real Santa?Cherokee’s own authentic jolly Santa will be out greeting children and posing for photos several times during the upcoming holiday season. Best chances to visit with him are:

Dec. 2: Tree lighting and public party at the Governor’s Mansion in Atlanta. You can meet Santa and Gov. Nathan Deal. Mrs. Claus will be there too. (Mansion.Georgia.gov/Christmas)

Dec. 7: Ball Ground Christmas Festival and parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus. After the parade, Santa will greet children at the gazebo in the center of town. (CityOfBallGround.com)

integral part of a story that hit the airways and circulated the globe in Santa-magic fashion. A 4-year-old girl asked this Santa to bring her daddy back home in time for Christmas. Days later, a week before Christmas, cameras were rolling and eyes were tearing up when Santa arrived at her home with her daddy in tow, just home from serving in Afghanistan. “It was a joyous event, the highlight of my career. CNN called it the story of the day,” Cavender recalls.

The holidays are naturally the busiest time of year for this popular Santa, often with several appearances a day, but Cavender’s fascination and commitment to Santa are an integral part of his everyday life year round. His basement looks like a vintage toy store. About 15 years ago, he married Mrs. Claus, his

wife Pam, and she began joining him at large events to help manage the younger children. She doesn’t don the traditional frumpy ruffles, but instead has created her own stylish elegant interpretation of Santa’s better half. “She’s a beautiful Mrs. Claus,” Cavender says proudly.

One of the most exciting engagements Santa and Mrs. Claus have enjoyed recently is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Georgia Governor’s Mansion. “This will be our fourth year at the Governor’s Mansion and that’s an honor that we really enjoy.” This free event will be held on Dec. 2, and the public is invited to attend. If you can’t make the trek to Atlanta, head to Ball Ground on Dec. 7 for the annual parade and festival featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus. Be sure and bring a camera—you’ll want to get a photo of this striking holiday duo.

26

You wander along torch-lit streets in a bustling marketplace lined with shops and robed merchants selling their hand-crafted wares, and the local fish monger calls out to you, “Shalom.” A child with a chicken tucked under his arm hurries by. A man carrying baskets and pottery makes his way through the noisy crowd. And then you are surrounded by a throng of stern-faced Roman soldiers clad in armor and shiny helmets...Welcome to ancient Bethlehem. For nearly a decade the congregation of Hopewell Baptist Church on Ridge Road in Canton has dramatically recreated a setting representative of Bethlehem on the night that Jesus was born. What began as a small production in 2003 will this year encompass an acre lot, include about 250 costumed cast members and attract more than 15,000 visitors during a nine-day run, December 1-9.

When you enter through the gates of the city you will be greeted by Roman census takers bidding you to register and handing out gold colored coins resembling Roman shekels to the children. In the marketplace you can watch the local artisans throw pottery, weave baskets, grind grain and forge metal or sample fresh baked goods and examine the beautifully woven fabrics. In the synagogue, the Rabbi shares Hebrew stories. At a courtyard beyond the marketplace, a storyteller entertains visitors with riveting tales from the Old Testament while other locals go about their daily tasks of cooking, cleaning and warming themselves around their fires. Meanwhile all around you, the crowd is buzzing with chatter about a wonderful event that has taken place in a stable behind a nearby inn.

(continued on page 34)

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This year marks the 15th anniversary of Cherokee Ballet Theatre’s holiday presentation of “The Nutcracker.” For many local families, the holidays would not be complete without being magically transported inside the home of Clara, the young girl who dreams of a beloved toy nutcracker springing to life. More than 1000 guests are expected. For many dancers playing a role in the timeless ballet is a part of their holiday tradition. “Two of our teachers at the school, Carol Ann Borggaard and Gene Price, will be performing the roles of Clara’s grandparents and have been in almost every production for the past 15 years. This will be Craig Hobson’s third year as Drosselmeier, Clara’s intriguing Godfather and toy maker,” Dana Smith Crain, director of the Cherokee Ballet Theatre and the Woodstock School of Ballet, explains. “In fact, many of the 100-120 cast members have been in the production numerous years and have played almost every role. They love being part of the story each Christmas season. Several of the original cast members who had lead roles our first year are coming back this year as parents in the opening party scene.”

A number of local teenage boys are also recruited for the production—usually friends and brothers of regular cast members—to play the parts of the men in the opening party scene. “Some have done it several times now, but often they’ve never been on stage before—they are coming straight from football practice to “Nut” rehearsal. There’s a lot of chatting and giggling that goes on during those rehearsals—the party scene becomes a party. Having the boys join us is definitely one of the fun aspects of Nutcracker,” Crain affirms.

The leading role of Clara will also be played by a returning dancer, Amanda Stump. “When I was 5 years old, my grandmother took me to a local production of “The Nutcracker,” and I instantly feel in love. After 12 years of dancing I have only dreamed about dancing the part of Clara. Getting the chance to do so has become the highlight of my senior year,” says the Sequoyah High School senior. “I will always remember the great experiences I have had with my dance family here at Woodstock School of Ballet.” Crain notes that the production continues to evolve and is different every year. The move to Falany Performing Arts Center several years ago was a catalyst for multiple creative changes because Falany is primarily a concert hall with a large stage but no curtain, which meant no backdrops and no falling snow. “Falany is a beautiful venue and offers an element of classical elegance. When guests enter the beautiful atrium the tone is set—they are awestruck. And the sound quality is lovely, but the downside is there is no place for backdrops so we had to create freestanding set design. It turned out really nice.”

As you watch this year’s production, watch carefully for images in the party scene in Act 1 that will show up later in the dream sequence in Act 2. “It’s like a real dream—bits and pieces of your life resurface later in your dreams. There are a lot of fun examples—a child receives a candy cane at the party and that leads to the Dance of the Candy Canes in Act 2. We try and create new elements every year,” Crain notes.

“The Nutcracker” will be on Dec. 7 and 8. For tickets, contact The Woodstock School of Ballet 770-928-3966 or visit BalletWoodstock.com

(Nutcracker continued from page 8)

For many local families, the holidays would not be complete

without being magically transported inside the home

of Clara, the young girl who dreams of a beloved toy nutcracker springing to life.

30

“When you see a patient, the most important thing a medical provider does is listen. Oftentimes, by asking questions and listening to what your patient describes, a doctor is able to discern the problem before running a test.”

The congressman says as a lawmaker, it’s important to him to listen, ask questions and consider different outcomes before “diagnosing” a problem.

Since assuming office, addressing problems within our health care system has been one of his highest priorities. During three decades of practicing medicine, Dr. Gingrey saw first-hand the consequences that the high costs of health care had on his patients. He remains committed to saving Medicare, reforming Medicaid, and protecting good physicians from frivolous lawsuit abuses.

As co-chairman of the House GOP Doctors Caucus, he has been at the forefront of the fight to repeal Obamacare in its entirety, as well as individually repeal some of the most egregious components of the law, such as the Medicare-rationing board IPAB.

“The doctor-patient relationship is sacrosanct, but it is under assault by the Obama administration and Washington bureaucrats,” Gingrey said. “Much of the legislation I’ve introduced—the SCOPE Act, the State Flexibility Act, and the Provider Shield Act, for example—are aimed at protecting patients’ relationship with and access to his or her physician.”

Along with his work in health care policy, Gingrey has been actively involved in immigration, Second Amendment, labor, energy, and national security issues. Gingrey, who was named National Journal’s Most Conservative Member of Congress this year, cites a common theme in the legislation he’s authored and introduced.

“Reducing government interference in peoples’ lives addresses many problems we face today, whether it is job creation, health care, or energy independence,” Gingrey said. “I will continue working to remove burdensome regulations, eliminate bureaucratic red tape, and lower taxes so that we reward job creation and ingenuity, rather than punish it.”

Looking forward, the Congressman is optimistic. “Despite the obstacles we face, and there are many, the American people are resilient,” Gingrey said. “They still believe in this country and are determined to safeguard its values and principles. I am grateful to be a part of that in some small way.”

(Gingrey continued from page 7)

“Despite the obstacles we face, and there are many, the American people are resilient,” Gingrey said. “They still believe in this country and are

determined to safeguard its values and principles. I am grateful to be a part of

that in some small way.”

With our new 31,000+square-foot expansion, our cutting-edge facilities have grown to accommodate more patients and more dedicated, compassionate healthcare specialists just like you. It’s a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality medical care to our community while offering more opportunities for your professional growth. Here at Piedmont, we offer a great place to work, a great place for patients to receive care and a great place for physicians to practice medicine. Working at Piedmont isn’t just a job – it’s something better.And bigger!

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(Gingrey continued from page 7)

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In the near future, Shannon Wallace, an assistant prosecutor here since 2007, will be sworn in as the district attorney for Cherokee County. If past behavior is an indication of future behavior, then Wallace will work hard to achieve justice for the people of Cherokee County. Her current boss, District Attorney Gary Moss, says the citizens of our county can rest assured that she will do a great job. “Shannon is honest, hardworking, firm yet fair. She possesses the ability to analyze a complicated case and present it in a clear and concise manner. Shannon is well liked by her peers and respected by the opposition,” Moss affirms. “I am looking forward to watching Shannon grow into her new role as District Attorney.”

Wallace grew up in rural Washington County, Georgia, and says that for as long as she can remember, she wanted to be a lawyer. “Others told me I would be good at it since I really liked to argue,” she jokes. “And all I really knew about lawyers at that time was what I learned from watching Andy Griffith in Matlock. But as I grew up and learned more about what lawyers actually do to help others, I knew this was the career that I wanted.”

So she headed to the University of Georgia where she graduated cum laude in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice, then went on to law school at UGA where she graduated cum laude in 2002. During law school, Shannon met her husband, Kyle Wallace, who is a partner at the Atlanta-based national law firm of Alston & Bird LLP. They live in Towne Lake with their two young children.

One of Wallace’s distinguishing characteristics is that she will not rest until her job is done, and she vows to work hard to seek justice and to protect the citizens of Cherokee. “I am a stickler for being prepared, and will continue until the work is done no matter what time of the day or night it is. There is rarely a time during the day that I am not thinking about one of my cases and how to resolve a particular issue in that case.”

Wallace also has the distinction of being the first woman elected to the District Attorney’s Office in Cherokee County. She says she hasn’t thought about that much, but she likes the fact that she will go down in Cherokee County history as being the first female elected as District Attorney. “That being said, it is my hope that at the end of my career, I will be remembered not because I was the first female DA, but because of what I did to lead the District Attorney’s Office and to protect the citizens of this great county,” she adds.

How does an argumentative girl from rural Georgia end up as the district attorney in one of Georgia’s largest counties just 10 years out of law school? We asked Wallace a few questions, and she was happy to provide the following answers.

“I truly believe being a prosecutor is my calling. I have known this since the

very first day that I stepped into the District Attorney’s Office as an intern

in Milledgeville, Georgia.”

~District Attorney-Elect Shannon Wallace

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Q. Why go into public service?

A. I went to law school to become a prosecutor; I truly believe being a prosecutor is my calling. I have known this since the very first day that I stepped into the District Attorney’s Office as an intern in Milledgeville, Georgia. Seeking justice for people who have been victimized and helping them get through this difficult time gives me great satisfaction. In fact, there is no other job that would be more fulfilling to me than being a public servant.

Q. What lessons have you learned practicing law?

A. Along with the title of lawyer comes a tremendous amount of responsibility. All lawyers, but especially prosecutors, are in a position to greatly affect people’s lives both positively or negatively. Thus, we have to be extremely careful with what we do and how we do it. In the ten years that I have been practicing law, I have learned how important it is to carefully and deliberatively consider all the facts and treat all people with respect and fairness no matter what their circumstances are.

Q. What do you think is the greatest challenge Cherokee County will face in the DA’s Office?

A. Learning to effectively prosecute criminal cases during tough economic times is the greatest challenge facing our office. Cherokee County is continuously growing, and the types of crimes being committed are becoming more and more violent. However, the bad economy has prevented our office from adequately growing to address this increase in crime. Instead, we are faced with finding ways to do more work with fewer resources. This is the biggest challenge that our office will face in the next several years as we continue to aggressively and effectively prosecute crime in Cherokee County.

As of 2013, there will be 11 women District Attorneys (in the field of 49 )serving the state of Georgia.

34

Co-director of the production, Daina Holland, says that the congregation of this relatively modest-sized church is deeply committed to this outreach ministry and feels strongly that God has called them to serve in this way. “Our mission is to bring the true meaning of Christmas back to the community with our Back to Bethlehem production. We want to turn the focus during the holidays back to family and what Christmas is really about—not all the material things that don’t really matter,” Holland affirms.

Dozens of volunteers began construction on the fabricated city in early November on a lot near Sixes Elementary School. Throughout the year, congregation members work enhancing and creating costumes and props for the staged centuries-old city. One of the church members, Lee Veal, is charged with ensuring everything visitors see and hear is time appropriate and as authentic and true-to-life as possible. “He goes over our character development and teaches each character a few appropriate words to say,” Holland explains. “It takes the entire church to produce Back to Bethlehem. Our youngest members sometimes take turns as Baby Jesus, and the members of our Senior Adult Class manage the hospitality tent—hand out candy canes and serve cookies,” Holland notes. “It’s an incredible experience for us and for our visitors.”

Guest should allot at least 45 minutes to experience the entire city. Holland recommends arriving early to see the cadence march of the Roman soldiers as they enter the city gates and illuminate the torches. The nativity scene is the most popular attraction at Back to Bethlehem. “Everybody is drawn to the nativity scene—it is just beautiful. We have a stable with music, angels, and live camels and sheep. A lot of people will visit the nativity more than once, and it is the most photographed aspect of the production,” Holland affirms.

For many families across the region, a visit to Back to Bethlehem has become a much anticipated holiday tradition. Holland says they have had people come from as far away as Russia and from many surrounding states. “We had a family in Alabama call the church yesterday and confirm the dates for this year’s production. They used to come to the production when they lived here previously, and now every year they rent a cabin in the area so they can all come again.”

Back to Bethlehem for the HolidaysWhat: A recreation of ancient Bethlehem thatdepicts the story of the night Jesus was born

When: Dec. 1-9, 7-9 p.m.

Where: Hopewell Baptist Church78 Ridge Road, Canton, GA 30114

Cost: Admission is free; contributions are appreciated.

For more information, visit BackToBethlehem.com or HopewellBaptist.com

(Bethlehem continued from page 26)

Friday, November 9th11:00 am - 8:00 pm

(FREE! One printed photo provided per visit. Bring your own camera, too! )

Sponsored by

Presented by:

(5:00 - 8:00 PM)

(Bethlehem continued from page 26)

36

Every year at Christmas time, the generous residents of Cherokee County contribute hundreds of toys to local children who might otherwise be disappointed on Christmas morning. Thanks to the efforts and donations of this county’s churches, schools, agencies and other non-profits, many kids living in poverty will wake up and discover that Santa has brought a Barbie, a basketball or even a bicycle. But as these kids become teenagers, Santa quits bringing presents. Often our less fortunate kids—teens in peril who could most benefit from the kindness of others—are forgotten.

“These teens are trying to stay in school, find jobs and find places to live. They are more excited to get a couch to sleep on or a ride to work than they are to get a pair of designer jeans,” explains Sonia Carruthers, CEO and executive director of Cherokee FOCUS, a dynamic non-profit in Cherokee that facilitates collaboration among the county’s agencies, service providers, faith community, and other community organizations. “These teens typically don’t ask for handouts—they are more apt just to come in and ask for help figuring out what to do. This is also true for teens

What’s anEducation Worth?

About 1.2 million teenagers become dropouts per year

nationally, according to Alliance for Excellent Education.

Dropouts are more likely to be unemployed, incarcerated and to

be on government benefits.

Unemployed:15 versus 9.4 percent

Incarcerated: 75 percent of state inmates are high school dropouts

Dropouts cost tax payers $8 billion annually in public assistance programs like

food stamps(continued on page 38)

38

that have graduated from high school but haven’t been given the life skills or direction they need to move forward. One of our FOCUS programs, Cherokee Youth Works, helps these at-risk teens help themselves by providing educational support, employment training and life skills development.”

Stacy Cooper, program manager for Cherokee Youth Works, has seen firsthand the difference that community support can make, often breaking a cycle of poverty and despair that has been a legacy for generations. “One of our teens, Ashley, grew up in a difficult home situation. Her mother was in and out of jail for using methamphetamines. Ashley had a daughter when she was 15 years old and three days later was placed into foster care. She then went to live with her father hoping for a better situation. Unfortunately, her father was an alcoholic and frequently went into violent rages, used terrible language and yelled all of the time. Ashley told us that the last straw was hearing her 2-year-old daughter say every cuss word in the book having learned them from her grandfather.”

Cooper says that at this point Ashley moved in with her nana. But she still needed an education and wanted to get her life headed in the right direction. At Cherokee Youth Works she found help. “Through CYW she was able to earn her GED. Additionally, CYW helped her to find employment at a local daycare where her daughter could attend while she was working. Through the program she was also assisted in enrolling in college where she is currently attending. She frequently comes in for help with her college classes, financial aid and advice. We are so proud of her—she will soon be getting married to a sweet young man, she has been working at the same daycare for two years, and she is working toward a degree in Criminal Justice.”

Carruthers stresses that it is critical for communities to help kids who drop out from high school. “We have the chance to get these teenagers headed toward a stable, self-sufficient future in which they can

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All I Want for Christmas...Want to give a gift that makes a difference? The Cherokee Gift Connection is an online means of donating to a Cherokee County boy or girl between the ages of 16 and 21. Gift options include: GED testing fees, SAT and ACT testing fees, college and technical school application fees, and group counseling and therapy fees. You can also make tax deductible donations for: gas cards, job-interview clothing, work-uniform cost, and child-care cost. All gifts and donations will be distributed to pre-qualified participants in the Cherokee Youth Works program. Money is never given directly to the participant through this initiative. Instead the program pays the school, store or organization that is providing services. Participants who receive the benefits of the Gift Connection are also required to provide proof that they have used the gift as it was intended.

To make a donation or more information, visit CherokeeFocus.org/GiftConnection.

contribute to their communities...or we can leave them to struggle and bear their burdens alone.” More than 70 local businesses have collaborated with CYW to provide life-changing job opportunities for teens in the CYW program. Other local businesses have contributed by offering life-skill workshops—teaching the teens how to dress appropriately for job interviews, open a checking account, or lease an apartment. Local volunteers assist in tutoring the teens in preparation for the GED or in subjects within their high school or college curriculums, or sometimes just help them navigate the complex college application and financial aid processes. Volunteers also provide services like car repair, haircuts, music lessons, art classes, cooking classes, or job shadowing opportunities. The staff at FOCUS continually assesses the critical needs of the teens, and through collaborative efforts, they are able to address serious issues facing the teens in a way that one agency or organization could not do alone.

“These youth have taken on adult responsibilities but they are still children, and these children need our help today to become the adults they need to be tomorrow,” Carruthers affirms. “It takes a community, and at FOCUS, we bring community together. We draw on the local support and resources to help kids that are often forgotten reach their potential and become valuable members of our community.”

Jim Radford, a program specialist for the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Workforce Development Division, calls the Cherokee FOCUS Youth Works program a model for other programs across the state who are trying to help high-risk teens aspire to success. “It’s vital that organizations don’t give up on these kids. Communities can’t afford to write off the 20 to 30 percent of the population who drop out of high school. We must insist that they do well—that they succeed—even if that requires communities to give them second, third or fifth chances. We can’t give up on them. It’s critical.”

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CalendarNovemberA-Maize-ing We Will Go!Hickory FlatThrough NovemberSituated on a massive 56-acre site that also hosts six other historic events including the Trail of Tears and the 1864 Battle of Resaca, this 10 acre corn maze twists and turns and then turns back on itself before you find your way to the end. Located at Cagle’s Dairy in Hickory Flat, Cherokee County (closest to Atlanta and Resaca, Gordon County, about halfway between Chattanooga and Atlanta).

November 310 AM until 4 PM. Civil War Living History Civil War re-enactors will tell the tale of the Civil War through the demonstration of Civil War era uniforms and weapons.Barrington HallRoswell

November 5 12:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and Learn Bring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

November 66:30 until 9:30 PMCooking Basic Italian, Part 2 with Chef John WilsonIncludes complimentary wine served with dinner and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. $50.00 person. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 770.640.3855 to make your reservation or ask questions.

Barrington HallRoswell

Through Nov 6 Pumpkin Patch at Pettit Creek Farms Cartersville Handcrafted items from A to Z top the list of great things to do including classic car show, pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, clowns, live entertainment and food galore. For more info contact: 770-386-8688.

Nov 7 – Dec 30Make-A-Wreath for Make-A-Wish at Barrington HallFestive Holiday wreaths will be displayed throughout Barrington Hall during the Holiday Season. They will be availablefor purchase. All proceeds will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Barrington HallRoswell

November 7Barrington Hall Wednesday Lecture Series: Winter Gardening with Janet Rigsby6:30 until 9:30 PM$5 suggested admission. Call 770.640.3855 to reserve a seat.Barrington HallRoswell

Through Dec 3Youth Arts Program/ClassesCanton• John Horne “Life Drawing”, Mondays 6:30 to 9:00 PM, Oct 22 to Dec 3, $120.00, plus model fee• John Horne “Teen Drawing”, Saturdays 12:30 to 2:00 PM, Oct 27 to Dec 1, $90.00To sign up for classes call 770-704-6244. Include

name and phone number. For additional information, visit our web site at www.cherokeearts.org. Cherokee Arts Center.94 North StreetCanton

November 9Jingle Bell ShopCanton11 am - 8 PMA one-stop holiday shopping extravaganza of beautiful and distinctive gifts. Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference CenterCherokee County Administration Building.770-345.0400.www.cherokeechamber.com/jingleBellShop.htm

November 10 & 11Junior Service League of Woodstock’s Holiday Tour of HomesThe tour features exquisite homes in Woodstock and Canton that are professionally decorated for the holidays by local designers. Each home has unique features that make it distinctive. Visitors will be able to get numerous holiday decorating ideas to make their own homes more festive for the holiday season. 770.592.3535. www.jslwoodstock.org

November 9-11Northeast Georgia Arts TourArtists and crafts people in White, Habersham, Rabun, Dahlonega and Lumpkin counties will welcome visitors into their workspaces with demonstrations, workshops, interactive events, juried art festivals, scenic Sunday brunches and more in this self-guided driving and

walking tour showcasing the finest paintings, pottery, jewelry, fiber art, wood work, glass, mixed media, metal, photography and handcrafted furniture available.

Choose your starting point – Dahlonega to Dillard, Cleveland to Clayton – with hundreds of miles of creative artistic presentation will reveal itself at every turn! Start your road trip by logging on to www.ArtsTour.org, where you’ll find downloadable maps with which to plot your course, presenting artists and their locations, hours of operation and more. Include stops at our delightful participating dining and lodging partners, also listed, along the way. This warm weather weekend will bring out the “best in show” and where to go across Northeast Georgia. Just look for the bright yellow Art Zone signs!

November 10 - 11Civil War ExpoRiverside Park, Helen This Civil War re-enactment will feature Period Settler’s villages, demonstrations, and camps. Skirmishes between the Union and Confederate “armies” will re-create some of the war’s most interesting battles. This event will feature living history demonstrations and re-enactors from across the country. For more information e-mail Al Platt at aplatt0021@aol.com

November 1212:15 PM until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear

staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

Nov 12-Dec 31Christmas at the Smith Plantation“Christmas in Georgia” will be the theme for 2012 as the Roswell Garden Club decorates the house concentrating on places and things in Georgia including its Historical Landmarks, Beaches, and Mountains. The house will be open and decorated for Christmas from November 12th through the month of December.

November 146:30 until 9:30 PMBarrington Hall Wednesday Lecture Series: The Presidential Campaigns of 1860 and 1864 presented by Phillip Whiteman$5 suggested admission. Call 770.640.3855 to reserve a seat.Barrington HallRoswellNovember 276:30 until 9:30 PMCooking Class: Basic Italian, Part 3 with Chef John WilsonIncludes complimentary wine served with dinner and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. $50.00 person. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 770.640.3855 to make your reservation or ask questions.Barrington HallRoswell

November 286:30 until 9:30 PMBarrington Hall Wednesday Lecture Series: The

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Chattahoochee River Line presented by Michael Shaffer of Kennesaw State University$5 suggested admission. Call 770.640.3855 to reserve a seat.Barrington HallRoswell

Nov 17- Jan 4Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association Holiday Show & Sale10:00 am - 6:00 pmBlue RidgeThe Art CenterCome shop for that perfect holiday gift, one that is creative and unique. We will have hundreds of items for sale, all made from one of our artists. So whether it’s jewelry, pottery, paintings or anything in between, we will have it. Show is open during regular business hours. Opening reception is Nov. 17, 6-8pm.http://www.blueridgearts.net

Nov 17 - Dec 30Christmas in the White House at Bulloch HallEnjoy a presidential look at the holiday season. Eleven presidents will be represented from George to Jimmy. See customs and pastimes of these years on display. Open for self-guided tours, Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm, and Sunday, 1-4pm.

November 1912:15 PM until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

November 23Annual Lighting of the Village6:00pmDowntown HelenJoin us for the Annual Lighting of the Christmas lights and visit from Santa!

November 23Love Lights A TreeDowntown Canton.

The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting sponsored by the American Cancer Society. 770.704.1500. www.CantonHDL.com

Nov 23 - Dec 7 Festival of Trees10:00 pmUnicoi State ParkHelen This event occurs daily beginning November 23 and ends December 7. View the beautifully decorated trees throughout Unicoi Lodge. This event is hosted by the White County Chamber of Commerce to raise money for United Way of White County.

Nov 23 – Dec 25th Annual Christkindlmarkt10:00am - 6:00pmRepeats every Sunday & Saturday until Sun Dec 02 Downtown HelenChristkindlmarkt is a traditional German event. Booths are set up on the Marktplatz where visitors can enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The market offers everything from unique gifts and decorations to an assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks and candied treats. For more information call the Helen Chamber of Commerce at 706-878-1908.

November 26Light Up Blue Ridge Blue RidgeThe annual old-fashioned holiday celebration in downtown Blue Ridge! The downtown is filled with live entertainment throughout the day. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at 11:15 a.m.. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and have photos taken in the gazebo in downtown Blue Ridge. Live reindeer, children’s trackless train rides, Tim the Magician and Butterfly the Clown, “Balloon Lady” Nancy Fangles and much more.

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The lighting of the “Great Tree” takes place at 6:00 p.m.. Downtown shops will be open late so bring the whole family for a holiday of fun, perfect to start the season off right. Country singer, Bartlee Norton, will be back for his third year in a row. He and his band, 64 Highway, will entertain from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.Proceeds from this event will benefit “Open Arms”. For more information, please contact Dianne Mallernee at openarmsofblueridge.org or 706-633-4773

December 1Holiday Jubilee and City Birthday CelebrationWoodstockTis the season to experience a parade, carolers, Santa, tree lighting and presentation of the Citizen of the Year Award. Woodstock City Park. 770.517.6788.

December 1Gingerbread ChristmasSmith PlantationFour 30-minute workshops are scheduled for 10:30 am, 11:30am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Each workshop will include preparing and decorating Christmas themed cookies.

December 2, 9 & 16Regular business hoursBarrington Hall Open House to benefit Make-A-Wish FoundationFestive Holiday wreaths will be displayed throughout Barrington Hall and will be available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Admission free.Barrington HallRoswell

December 4, 6, 11, 18Christmas High Teas at Bulloch Hall4 p.m.Relax and enjoy this holiday tradition as ladies in period dress serve you a two course High tea. The evening includes a tour of the house decorated for Christmas.Reservations, $40 per person770-992-1731

December 6Christmas Tree LightingWaleskaOfficial kick-off to the holiday season in Waleska. 770.479.2912. www.CityofWaleska.com

December 7Here Comes Santa ClausBall Ground · 6 pm Santa’s Annual Visit to Ball Ground.Downtown Gazebo770.735.2123. www.CityofBallGround.com

December 7,14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23Performance of “A Christmas Carol”All Sunday performances begin at 7 p.m., the rest begin at 8 p.m.The Osage Terrace room will open 1/2 hour before performanceThere will be an intermission.$15 per person, reservations a must!770-992-1731

December 85 until 9 PMCandlelight Tour, a Southern Trilogy Visit all three of Roswell’s historic homes dressed up in their Holiday finery and lit by candlelight. Join us and enjoy the holiday entertainment. Call

Barrington Hall at 770-640-3855, the Archibald Smith Plantation at 770-641-3978 or Bulloch Hall at 770-992-1731 for further information.Roswell$20 adults, $10 children.

December 8“The Glory Days of WCHK”: book signing with the author, Marguerite T. Cline 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM Yawn’s Books & More “The Glory Days of WCHK” is a casual history of fifty years at a small town radio station - WCHK. The book is based on memories of Byron Dobbs over his forty years at WCHK, memories of others who were involved in the station, and memories of faithful listeners. While some are serious, others are of hilarious antics and hoaxes. Main Street Canton.

December 8Christmas for Kids at Bulloch Hall10 a.m. - noonCandy cane hunt, holiday craft, snacks, hunt the Yule Log, Queen Glitter, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus! Call for reservations $10 per person. 770-992-1731

December 8 & 9 10am – 5pmNorth Georgia Art Ramble The First Annual North Georgia Art Ramble is a self-guided open studio tour of 27 studios and galleries situated in Canton, Cumming, Roswell, Woodstock, Cartersville, Calhoun, Jasper and Blue Ridge. Come experience the creative process as the artists

demonstrate their unique techniques and talk about what inspires them and how that spark finds its way into their art. There are 37 different artists, all working in different media. Visit www.ngaartramble.com to view all of the participating artists, the locations of their studios and download or request a brochure with a map of the Ramble. This year our “Home Base” is the Cherokee Arts Center (CAC) located in downtown Canton.

December 12The Christmas Open House11:00am – 7pmThe Lodge at Bridge Mill Premier Senior Living Apartment Homes10451 Bells Ferry RoadCanton

December 14 & 155 PM to 9 PMCherokee Christmas by CandlelightIn 1805, Cherokee Chief James Vann opened his new brick mansion to the Moravian missionaries to hold one of the first Christmas celebrations in the Cherokee Nation. To honor this tradition, visitors are invited to enjoy the sights and sounds of a 19th century Christmas in one of America’s best-preserved Cherokee Indian homes. Admission: $3.50-$6.00. 706-695-2598.Chatsworth

December 1510 AM and again at 12 NoonCookies With Mrs. ClausBring your child to help decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and write letters to Santa. A very special

postman will arrive to pick up those letters. Reservations are required. The cost is $10.00 per child. Adult chaperones are admitted free.Barrington HallRoswell

December 15Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association Christmas at the Art Center Open HouseBlue Ridge10:00 am - 6:00 pmThe Art CenterEnjoy refreshments, artwork and good cheer as you enjoy the seasonal beauty at The Art Center. Shop at our Holiday Show while you are here, and browse among our eight art galleries.

January 17, 24 & 31 7:00 to 10 PMAdult Writing Class – Writing Children’s BooksAward winning children’s book author Mary Ann Rodman (My Best Friend Emmy, First Grade Stinks) and writing instructor for both children and adults will teach adults to write fiction for children. $250.00 tuition for the six-week (held on Thursday nights) class. Advance reservations are required. Call 770-640-3855 to reserve your seat or ask questions.Barrington HallRoswell

December 20 Reenactment of Mittie Bulloch and Theodore Roosevelt’s 1853 Wedding at Bulloch HallStep back in time to this snowy evening in the little village of Roswell and be a guest at this important 1853 wedding.Call for reservations, 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m.,

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CalendarCHEROKEE

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8 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. 770-992-1731$12 adults, $6 children 6-18

January 21, 201312:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

January 226:30 until 9:30 PMCooking Class: Lo Fat, Lo Cal with Chef John WilsonIncludes complimentary wine served with dinner and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. $50.00 person. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 770.640.3855 to make your reservation or ask questions.Barrington HallRoswell

February 1–28Sharing the Story of Slave Life at Bulloch HallWith information from family letters, the house exhibits many of the chores and tasks of the Bulloch Slaves.Bulloch HallRoswell

February 1-28EXHIBIT: Various Aspects of a Slave’s Life This exhibit will represent various aspects of a slave’s life, focusing on work, food, and every day tasks. The exhibit will be both in the barn and the ‘slave cabin” where most artifacts are from the Smith family collection. The exhibition will be

on display at the Smith Plantation during regular tour hours, February 1-28 in conjunction with the Roswell Roots Festival. Admission included in the purchase of a regular tour ticket.

For more information, please call (770) 641-3978 or log onto www.archibaldsmithplantation.org

February 2, 2013 African American Fashion Smith Plantation HomeAdmission: $10.00 Wine/Cheese Reception at NoonPresentation at 1 pm

Fashion show and talk where well known fashion expert Vernell Washington and other speakers will present trends in African American Fashion today. Discussion will explore fashions in clothing, hats, accessories, colors, and traditions that are popular and representative of the African American Culture. Show will include models and a discusion of fashion as it has evolved from African roots, including the wearing of hats, unique fashions and other accessories in African American fashion.

Event will begin at Noon with Wine and Cheese Reception in Smith Barn Exhibit Space and will move to Smith Plantation Parlor for presentation at 1 pm.

Please call the Smith Plantation for more information or to make your reservations at (770) 641-3978. Admission $10.00

February 412:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and Learn

Bring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

February 56:30 until 9:30 PMCooking Class: Country French with Chef John WilsonIncludes complimentary wine served with dinner and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. $50.00 person. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 770.640.3855 to make your reservation or ask questions.Barrington HallRoswell

February 910 AM until 3 PMGullah Cooking and Culture with Sallie Ann RobinsonMs. Sallie Ann Robinson, as part of the annual Roswell Roots Festival, will share stories of her culture and prepare Gullah food in the kitchen of historic Barrington Hall. She will also have her cookbooks available for sale.Barrington HallRoswell

February 9, 2013Roots Ancestral Genealogy 2:00 pmRoswell Adult Recreation Center on Grimes Bridge Road Admission $5.00

Renowned genealogist Melvin J. Collier will present a two hour, two part presentation at the Grimes Bridge Adult Recreation

Center Ballroom. Part One will be a discussion of post Civil War genealogy research. Attendees will learn research methodologies and tips to tracing African-American roots from 1865 and afterwards. Part Two will be a presentation on slave genealogy research. Attendees will learn how to trace their enslaved ancestors in a plethora of records. For more information, please call (770) 641-3978 or log onto www.archibaldsmithplantation.org

February 9, 16 & 23Kids Can Write Five Saturdays Writing CampMary Ann Rodman, children’s book author and children’s writing instructor will teach children how to use their natural creativity to write clear and compelling stories. The cost of the camp is $250.00 per child. Advance registration is required. Call 770.640.3855 to ask questions or to register.Barrington HallRoswell

February 9Tales Told in the Cabin2 pmStoryteller Josie Bailey will regale our visitors with Uncle Remus stories.Bulloch Hall: Service YardRoswell

February 1112:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics. Barrington HallRoswell

February 1812:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

February 196:30 until 9:30 PMCooking Class: California Cooking with Chef John WilsonIncludes complimentary wine served with dinner and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. $50.00 person. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 770.640.3855 to make your reservation or ask questions.Barrington HallRoswell

February 2512:15 until 12:45 PMMunch and LearnBring your lunch to Barrington Hall’s carriage meeting space and hear staff horticulturist Janet Rigby speak about various gardening topics.Barrington HallRoswell

To be considered in future enjoy! calendars, submit your event date, time, location, details, photos (hi-res jpgs) and contact information to:info@enjoycherokee.com

Event listings are subjectto space limitations.

For Advertising, contact: 678.454.9350 orsales@enjoycherokee.com

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