Titles and Blurbs

By Ellen Samsell Salas

It was an adventure. I cant believe we did this, says Canton native Ken Locke, who with his wife Amanda has accomplished a mighty feat.

Fifty states. Fifty marathons. Together. In only eight years.

Amanda downplays their feat saying, It wasnt pretty. We didnt train. We didnt eat right. We are not fast. We just went out there and did it. Our attitude was, lets enjoy it, says Ken. With times from four to eight hours, beating the clock wasnt their goal.

Amanda, a paralegal, started running in 2008. Ken, a retired captain with the Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO), now with Cherokee County School District Police, had already logged marathons when they started running with a group from the CSO (he has run 66 total). Amanda joked that after one marathon, she had to do at least one more to be able to call herself a marathoner. She has now run 56.

Their busiest year was 2016. The couple ran 32 marathons in 32 states, including one seven-day stretch of seven marathons, or 183.4 miles, in seven states with no injuries.

That was tough, laughs Amanda. We would run, finish, hop in the car, and drive to the next. Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming meant three races in three days. Mississippi and Louisiana? Two in two days.

If races were within 800 miles of Canton, they drove. Greater distances required flying. Out on Friday, grab a few hours of sleep, run 26 miles, then (often without even showering) fly back to Atlanta. We looked for events that could fit into a weekend, Ken says. For Alaska, Ken and Amanda splurged, taking vacation time.

The couple ran in heat, cold, rain, and sleet. They pushed through 26 miles on the sands of Texas Gulf Coast, tackled Kentucky mountains, and the rocks, roots, and mud of a trail run. It was not a luxury trail, jokes Ken. But only once, when Ken got heat stroke at mile 23, did either runner quit a marathon. He returned and completed the same race a year later. Amanda has nursed a disconnected ACL, which will require knee surgery in January.

Ken and Amanda agree the rewards have exceeded their expectations. They are grateful to have run for charities and to honor veterans. They experienced the excitement of the New York Marathon, seeing humpback whales in Maui, and running past national monuments in Washington, D.C.

We met wonderful people; we saw places we will revisit. Most importantly, says Amanda, We did it together.

On August 21 in South Dakota, with Mount Rushmore as a backdrop, they completed their 1,310.94-mile adventure. Celebrating with Marathon Maniacs friends, they cried, and for the 50th time, awarded each other their medals.

Whats next? Maybe visiting each NFL football stadium, says Amanda. Their advice to other weekend warriors considering taking on this challenge: Do it. Believe in yourself, and youll do it.

Your Hometown Realtor

By Ellen Samsell Salas

Maria Sims says that becoming the founder and lead agent of her full-service real estate group began as a bit of a fluke.

I was always intrigued with real estate, Sims recalls. I started during the recession, looking for personal investments, but when I learned of other peoples bad experiences, I just knew I could fix their problems.

This passion for helping other people make smart investments and find their dream homes is now the core of the Maria Sims Group of Canton, an affiliate of the national ERA Sunrise Realty.

Proud of being Your Hometown Realtor, the team of experienced real estate professionals works 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, making it their business to help their clients.
Heart is the center of our business, says Agent Kate Huller.

With over 50 years of combined experience, the Maria Sims Group includes Sims, Agents Huller, Jaime Brock, Sheri Lamb, and Zack Bobo; Stager Suzanna Alsobrook; and Transaction Coordinator Faith Castagner.

Were real people. Were hometown. And we do everything for our clients, Sims emphasizes.

Keenly aware that they are assisting people make major life decisions, Sims says, We are working with our clients largest financial investment. It should be an experience the client chooses.

In the 10 years since she founded her group, Sims says, Weve never had a home that we staged and priced according to current market values that didnt sell. That success adds up to over 2,500 homes sold, involving billions of dollars.

Experience, knowledge of the market, and a personal touch help ensure this success. The group doesnt list a house until Sims has researched the home, the neighborhood, and its market trends. She then visits each home before sharing her expertise, and she listens to clients needs before coming up with a winning market plan.

So confident is the group of their ability to find and/or sell homes for their clientele, they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If we dont sell your home, ERA will buy it, says Sims.
With roots in Cherokee and Pickens Counties, team members know and love their northern Georgia territory.

This area is booming right now, says Huller. Everything is new and clean. Downtown Canton has great restaurants that rival Atlanta and Woodstock, but the strong sense of community still exists.

Group members agree that the area offers the best of all worlds: Cherokee Countys excellent schools, easy access to Hartsfield-Jackson airport, and only 20 miles to the mountains. And, Sims emphasizes, The price per square foot in the area is phenomenal, and seniors over 62 receive a substantial break on their property taxes.

Being a cohesive group allows every member to know the buyers, sellers, and properties their colleagues are serving. Were small, but we like to stay small, says Sims. We are a one-touch company that guarantees big company services. Our goal is simple: 100% satisfaction for each client.

I could never do it without each and every member of my team, Sims adds. Each agent has special expertise, but they all work together for the good of our clients.

Matching each client to an agent based on personalities and client needs ensures that clients have the most positive experience. With 13 years in new housing, Lamb knows that market, while Bobo, who bought his first investment property when he was only 18, knows investment opportunities. Huller is bilingual and can assist Spanish-speaking clients.

Touch Me Tuesdays, a weekly confab, brings all members of the group together to further ensure this awareness and personal touch happen. Sitting around the conference table, team members share updates, brainstorm ideas, and most importantly contact clients by phone.

We dont just rely on texts and emails to communicate with our clients, says Lamb. We need to make frequent connections with people. Its a relationship business. We have flourished from that philosophy.

There is no greater calling than helping a family find the perfect home for each stage of their life, Sims says. I love helping people find their homes.

Preparing Your Home To Sell

Every home should look its best, says Maria Sims. Staging at no extra cost is part of the groups personal touch.

Declutter and Depersonalize
Dust baseboards and blinds, put away laundry, trash and toys. Organize closets, pantries, and storage areas.

Toss anything you arent keeping.
Minimize personal art and photos.

Paint
A fresh coat inside and out in a bright neutral color wakes up your house.

Add Curb Appeal
Spread new mulch, trim shrubs, and clear walkways.

Kitchens and Bathrooms
Add new hardware, shower curtains, grout,
towels, and rugs.

Bonus
Dont forget the textiles. Rugs, curtains, throw pillows, blankets, and matching bedding cost little and add dimension to spaces.

157 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 100, Canton, GA 30114
404-805-0673
MariaSimsGroup.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes

5230 Windward Parkway, Suite 102 Milton

678-366-1445 | NothingBundtCakes.com

La Vida Massage

12460 Crabapple Road Alpharetta

770-740-0654

LaVidaMassageAlpharetta.com

10945 State Bridge Road Johns Creek

678-624-9091

LaVidaMassageJohnsCreek.com

1100 Johnston Ferry Road Marietta

770-973-6385

LaVidaMassageMarietta.com

Dream Vacations

Alan Rosenbaum, Vacation Specialist

770-664-9010 | VacationsByAlan.com

Freshii

12460 Crabapple Road Alpharetta

470-233-7036 | Order.Freshii.com/ca/en-ca/alparetta

By Gregory Flail

Earlier this year, Elevation Autism and Learning Center opened its doors to meet the growing need for high-quality, family-focused services for children with autism. The learning center is a carefully designed environment located in one of downtown Alpharettas many historic homes. The warm, welcoming interior at Elevation feels like anything but a doctors office. Large windows shed natural light in classrooms and on spacious group play areas where children can develop social skills and accustom themselves to the school environment. This seamless blend of comforting atmospheres of home, school, and community
is an integral part of Elevations approach to teaching.

Children thrive in a supportive environment, says Dona Alvino, the director of clinical services at Elevation. We believe children must have an environment rich with learning opportunities and filled with constant interaction. Whether a child has been recently diagnosed or has been unable to make adequate progress in a traditional school setting, we believe every child is capable of learning once he or she has had personalized attention and guidance.

Alvino has worked with special needs children for 30 years, and before leading the team at Elevation, she led the development of an autism program at a large special needs school. Alvino believes that early intervention is the key to helping children with autism reach their fullest potential. Elevation offers specialized support to children ages 1-6 to help them develop the pivotal skills they need to engage with family and peers in their natural environment.

Our early intensive programs are designed to help children learn skills across many different developmental domains, whether that be in the home, community, or the classroom, Alvino says. And our intensive one-on-one therapy serves as a springboard to accelerate that development.

Elevations approach to learning is an evidence-based therapy known as Applied Behavior Analysis, the standard of care for
autism as recommended by the American Psychological Association and the U.S. Surgeon General. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) measures every skill, task, and behavior. The data generated by a childs response to activity can readily tell behavior analysts how that individual child learns most effectively, which allows the treatment team to modify their teaching strategies to best support the specific needs of that child.

Elevations behavior analysts conduct a careful assessment of the data to determine why a childs behavior occurs or fails to occur. Then, they create a treatment plan that modifies the environment and interactions to help increase or decrease specific skills or behaviors. Throughout the process, new behavior data informs ongoing treatment decisions.
Children attend Elevation 3-5 days a week, and while their schedule may look somewhat like a day at a traditional preschool or kindergarten, their activities are specifically tailored to their individual needs and program goals. Daily activities vary frequently to target and improve several areas of development from language and reading, to games, eating lunch, learning self-help skills, playing outdoors, taking turns, as well as using eye contact and nonverbal communication skills.

Throughout the day, Elevation students receive one-on-one guidance from a registered behavior technician (RBT), under the direct guidance of a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). Alvino and her staff also support their learners abilities to manage challenging behaviors such as tantrums, aggression, and refusal to comply with instructions. From day one, students enter Elevation with an individualized plan to maximize their success. In addition, parents are encouraged to take an active role in their childs progress in school and at home.

Our approach is family-centered because parents are their childs greatest advocates, Alvino says. Thats why we work with families. We involve parents in the sessions. We support them in their daily lives with advice, understanding, and coaching. At Elevation, each childs parent has access to a family concierge, who can personally address questions regarding a childs treatment plan or recommend additional resources available in the community.

Alvino believes there is a growing need for independent family-focused centers like Elevation. Parents are often understandably overwhelmed when receiving a new diagnosis, and their concerns can go unaddressed when a facility is too large, Alvino says. We are dedicated to working with parents continually to clarify goals, teach skills to apply at home, and make regular adjustments to their childs therapy plan.

Elevation Autism and Learning Center is convenient to schools, restaurants, and grocery stores, so that parents can manage their family lives alongside their childrens time in therapy. ABA therapy is covered by health insurance, and Elevation accepts all major health plans. For more information, please call 404-474-0040 or visit ElevationAutism.com.

 Taste the Love

By Marsha Cornelius

The Crabapple Trattoria

12315 Crabapple Road | Alpharetta 770-410-9883

The Crabapple location the older sister at the Silos features a full sit- down Italian restaurant. The Trattorias kitchen prepares for a tremendous amount of pickup/carryout catering orders as well as entertaining upwards of 200 diners per evening.

The menu ranges from classics such as Chicken or Veal Parmigiana to the exquisite Zuppa Di Pesce or freshly made Crab Cakes over Creamy Risotto. Entertaining for large parties and corporate gatherings is very common during this time of year, and the staff is prepared for large events.

Woodstock Location

Full-Service Bakery | Pizzeria

Extensive Coffee Bar | Custom Cake Studio Beverages | Seating | Pickup/Carryout

405 Toonigh Road

(Corner of Toonigh and Main Street)

404-410-1400

Crabapple Location

Full-Service Bakery | Seated Dining in the Trattoria Pickup/Carryout | Custom Cake Studio

12315 Crabapple Road

(Silos Shopping Center)

770-410-9883

Chamberhouse

145 W. Main Street

Canton, GA 30114

770-479-9115

Chamberhouse.net

Keys Jewelry

230 E. Main Street

Canton, GA 30114

770-479-4834

KeysJewelry.com

LaVida Massage Canton

6175 Hickory Flat Highway, #180

Canton, GA 30115

770-345-1200

LaVidaMassageCantonGa.com

Plastic Surgery Center of the South

Give the gift of Lyft this holiday season. Injectable fillers and Botox are perfect for that special someone. Plastic Surgery Center of the South offers several skin procedures such as microdermabrasion, skin pen, microblading, laser hair removal, chemical peels, and much more. They customize skin care regimens to your individual needs. Gift certificates are available.

120 Vann Street, #150
Marietta, GA 30060
770-421-1242
PlasticSurgeryCenterOfTheSouth.net

M&M Mercantile Co.

8533 Cumming Highway

Canton, GA 30115

678-232-1357

MMMercantileCo.com

Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents

6205 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 106

Canton, GA 30115

770-345-3090

GiftShopCanton.com

Main Street Nails

Treat yourself at Main Street Nail before the holiday rush! Dazzle Dry is the only quick-drying, long-lasting, natural nail care system of its kind. It uses a signature four-step process to strengthen nails, protect against abrasion, dry in just five minutes, and last up to three weeks without the use of UV light. Main Street Nail is a Safe Concept Salon that is Advanced Nail Technician and Medical Nail Technician certified.
American owned and operated.

127 E. Main Street
Woodstock, GA 30188
770-928-2662
MainStreetNailStudio.com

Gondolier

With the holidays fast approaching, Gondoliers catering menu is perfect for any gathering! Celebrate by enjoying a taste of Gondolier at your next family dinner or work lunch. No event is too big or too small. Savor authentic Italian, Greek, and American cuisine at your holiday party or event.

10029 Highway 92, Suite 112
Woodstock, GA 30188
770-516-6292
GondolierWoodstock.com

Salon Spa Venssa

Give more than a gift; give an experience this holiday season. Salon and Spa Venssas holiday spa packages will restore balance and bring harmony to anyone on your list. Packages include massage and facial treatments but may be customized with additional salon or spa services. Visit the guest services desk, and your gifts will be wrapped and ready to give.

8516 Main Street
Woodstock, GA 30188
770-591-2079
SalonVenessa.com

A New American Outlaw

By John Midkiff

Cody Bolden is as American as they come a fan of country music, tasty pie, and good whiskey. He grew up in Georgia but spent every other weekend with his father on his familys property in Alabama, affectionately referred to as the farm.

When asked what that was like, Bolden said, Georgia is home; it always will be, but it was nice to get back there. It was like camping with power, sitting at the pond, which was backed up to the Talladega National Forest. It was just pure.

Some of his music draws its roots from those Alabama trips. His feature song, Yonderway, is a callback to a simpler time when there was nothing to worry about except what was in front of you.

Bolden didnt grow up in a typical music household. His mom sang along with the radio. His dad did karaoke and would sometimes take him along. It wasnt until Christmas of 2014 that Bolden considered playing music. That year, his wife bought him a guitar and five 30-minute lessons. Admittedly, he didnt get a lot out of those lessons. By the time he got in the room and got his stuff unpacked, the lesson was nearly over.

A few years later, Boldens wife enrolled him in a guitar class at Kennesaw State University. That was when the guitar started to make sense. The class length and the weekly repetition helped solidify things for him.

Even so, the path to performing hasnt been a straight one for Bolden. He doesnt draw income solely from his music. He and his wife also own Pie Bar in Woodstock.

After a new music venue opened next door to Pie Bar, Bolden performed at their undiscovered artist event. This performance was the first time he had ever played for an audience, and it inspired him to get serious about his music. He started writing songs and enjoying the artistry of it. In 2017, he played his first paying gig and never looked back.

When Bolden decided to record his first track with a full band, he had never recorded with a group of musicians or that many instruments. He told the musicians to do their own thing around the acoustic guitar, to let the song develop organically. Bolden wanted the song to be as much an act of creation for them as it was for him.

Boldens new EP dropped in July and is available on iTunes and Spotify. For more information about him or his upcoming shows, visit CodyBolden.com.

 by Jessica Asbell

Alicia Berenson, famous painter, killed her husband. That much is clear. But why? When the police found her at the scene of the crime, she was silent and bleeding because after killing her husband, she tried to kill herself. After doctors saved her life, she remained silent. But she did make a statement in a painting.

While under house arrest and awaiting trial, Alicia painted a self-portrait titled Alcestis. A little-known Greek tragedy, Alcestis relates to Alicia more than her psychotherapist, Theo Faber, realizes. Theo has come with one intent: to help Alicia find her voice. Since her husband Gabriels death six years ago, Alicia hasnt uttered a word. Fascinated by her case, Theo jumps at the chance to work with Alicia.

Over time, Theo discovers the commonalities he shares with Alicia. As the line between doctor and patient is blurred, Theo becomes obsessed with making her speak. In between his sessions with Alicia and his detective work, readers learn that he cannot contain his own demons. Theo and Alicia seem destined for a crash. And when Alicia does start to speak, Theo learns much more than he anticipated.
    
Alex Michaelides keeps the reader guessing throughout The Silent Patient. Is Alicia crazy? Is she paranoid? Or is she telling the truth? Why did she kill her husband? Who can be trusted? The Silent Patient is filled with twists and turns, as both Theo and the reader work to put together the clues of Alicias life.

By Ryland Johnson

We live in foreboding times. Theres real danger threatening the human race: climate change, nuclear proliferation, war, guns, consumerism, corporations, pollution, zealotry, and madness. Since art often mirrors life, theres no shortage of current books imagining the awful end of it all. This is why author Reed Kings FKA USA was so much fun it imagines a future where every possible apocalypse happens all at once.

In FKA USAs irradiated 2085, everything is epically and hilariously terrible. The U.S. has devolved into a fractured toxic wasteland cruel, warring states of corporate feudalism ravaged by murderous gangs. What remains of culture is a total nightmare; the internet trolls have won. Everything sucks. This is where we find our crass, teenage protagonist, Trukee Wallace, just some unlucky kid sent on a suicide mission to save the world by his psychotic corporate overlord.

As a genre, postmodern picaresque is admittedly more challenging than your average beach romance, and it may not be for everyone. FKA USA has all the tropes of this genre: madcap world-building via footnotes and extra-narrative text, style like a demolition derby, multi-layered social and political satire, and even an unreliable author (Reed King is a pseudonym for an unidentified, albeit bestselling, author). For many readers, the terrible melange of everywhere-at-once apocalypse will be symbolic of our contemporary American moment. Bulldozed by the endless parade of horrible things, lots of Americans feel off balance most of the time.

At least, sometimes, we still get to have a little fun. FKA USA is a fun book. There are also brief moments of humanity in the chaos, where the compassionate core of personhood surfaces for an instant before being subsumed again. The book is imperfect, but its also poignant. It doesnt compromise or soften its rough edges. In the future, when our books are written by cyborgs, I hope they are as compelling as this one, which is recommended for adult readers and fans of science fiction.

Its that time of year when temperatures start to drop, and families crave something warm and hearty for lunch or dinner. Check out the following yummy recipes from the Family Life Publications staff. Pair them with a salad, your favorite sandwich, or a generous piece of crusty sourdough or French bread, and you will have a delicious meal for all to enjoy.

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Laurie Litke, Graphic Designer

Ingredients
-2 links sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
-1 cup onions, chopped
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-5 cups beef stock
-1/3 cup water
-14 oz. can diced tomatoes
-1 cup carrots, chopped
-1/2 teaspoon dried basil
-1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
-1 cup tomato sauce
-1 zucchini, chopped
-8 oz. cheese tortellini
-1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
-Grated parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions
-Place the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat and saute for 10 minutes, or until browned/cooked through.
-Drain the fat, reserving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
-Add the onions and garlic to the pot and saute for 5 minutes.
-Add the beef stock, water, tomatoes, carrots, basil, oregano, and tomato sauce and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, skimming any fat that may surface.
-Add the zucchini, tortellini, and parsley. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until tortellini is fully cooked.
-Serve with a parmesan cheese garnish.Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Brazilian Shrimp Soup

Julie Senger, Editor

Ingredients
-2 tablespoons olive oil
-1 medium onion, chopped
-1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1/2 cup long-grain rice
-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
-1 teaspoon salt
-28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
-4 cups water
-1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
-1 lb. medium shrimp, shelled/deveined and cut into 1-inch pieces
-Juice of 1 lime
-Salt & pepper to taste
-Fresh parsley, cilantro, or lemon balm for garnish

Instructions
-In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion and pepper are soft.
-Add the rice, red pepper flakes, salt, tomatoes, and water to the pot and bring to boil. Cook until the rice is almost done (about 10 minutes).
-Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
-Add the shrimp and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is done (3-5 minutes).
-Add lime juice and salt and pepper to taste.
-Serve garnished with parsley/cilantro/lemon balm and additional freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Garbanzo Bean Soup

Janet Ponichtera, Sales & Marketing Director

Ingredients
-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
-2 large onions, chopped
-1 large green pepper, chopped
-4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
-2 Spanish chorizos, sliced thick
-1 ham bone
-1 lb. ham, precooked and cubed
-8 cups water
-1 tablespoon olive oil (for yellow rice and chicken)*
-3 cans garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
-2 bay leaves
-Salt & pepper to taste

*6-7 strands of Saffron and 1/4 teaspoon paprika can be used instead of Vigo seasoning.

Instructions
-Saute onions and green pepper in olive oil for 4-6 minutes in a 4-quart soup pot.
-Add ham bone and water (If the ham bone isnt completely covered, add a little more water).
-Add potatoes, garlic, seasonings, and beans and bring to a boil.
-Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
-After 30 minutes, remove the bone from the soup and cut the ham from it.
-Discard the bone and add all ham and chorizo to the pot.
-Add salt and pepper to taste and cook on low for another 20-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Homemade Soup Stock

Mandy Marger, Graphic Designer

This recipe takes some forethought. Its especially useful after Thanksgiving when turkey bones and kitchen scraps are plentiful. Rotisserie chicken bones left over from easy meals throughout the year would also work. Keep a labeled bag in the freezer to collect the following broth items:

Ingredients
-Bones from poultry, ham, and beef
-Leftover carrots, celery, onions, or other aromatic vegetables

Instructions
-Place bones and scraps in a large pot and cover with water.
-Bring to a boil then reduce to the lowest temperature on your stove. Allow the scraps to simmer in a pot with a tight lid for at least 24 hours.
-Allow the broth to cool then pour it through a fine strainer.
-Store the broth in multiple small freezer-safe containers for ease of use.
-Keep some in the fridge for a quick warm snack, or as a base for your favorite soup, such as matzoh ball, as shown.

Victorian Oyster Stew

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher/Photographer

Ingredients
-1/2 cup boiling potatoes, peeled and diced
-1 tablespoon olive oil
-1/4 cup onions, chopped
-2 pints freshly shucked oysters with their liquor, the liquor drained off and reserved
-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
-2 tablespoons garlic, minced
-1 1/2 teaspoons salt
-1/4 teaspoon white pepper
-28 turns freshly ground black pepper
-1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
-1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
-1 cup heavy cream
-2 green onions or scallions, finely minced
-2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions
-In 3 cups of boiling water, cook the potatoes until firm-tender (al dente).
-Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the onions and saute for 30 seconds. Add the reserved oyster liquor and cook 30 seconds more.
-Add the parsley, garlic, potatoes, salt, white pepper, and 20 turns of the black pepper, and bring to a simmer.
-Stir in the hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce and simmer for 1 minute.
-Add the cream and cook for 3 minutes.
-Fold in the green onions and the oysters and cook until the edges of the oysters start to curl (about 2 minutes). Stay with it to be sure the oysters are not overcooked.
-Ladle 1 1/2 cups of the stew into each of 4 shallow soup bowls and top each with 2 turns black pepper.
-Serve, Louisiana style, with hot mini biscuits.

By Julie Senger

While you may love to carve pumpkins to decorate your home during the month of October, chances are you dont enjoy the messy clean up. And unless you wait until a few days before Halloween, your jack-o-lantern is likely to transform into a moldy holiday nightmare long before trick-or-treaters come knocking.

If you want your star decoration to last until its time to hand out candy to all the little pirates, princesses, superheroes, ghosts, and goblins, check out these no-carve pumpkin decorating ideas that are sure to put your family in the spooky-cute holiday spirit.

Recycle Old Crayons
(You know you have some lying around.)
- Unwrap the paper from the crayons.
- Cut crayons into small pieces (the smaller the pieces, the easier it will be to melt them).
-Put the pumpkin on top of cardboard or old newspaper.
-Place the crayon pieces around the stem area of the pumpkin.
-Use a hair dryer to melt the crayons and watch them drip and roll down the sides.

Did You Say Applique?
(You can glue interesting things to your pumpkin to create unique designs.)
-Glue letters to your pumpkin to deliver a haunting message or one large monogram letter to represent your familys last name.
-Create character faces on your pumpkin by using googly eyes and eyebrows/beards/mustaches cut from furry fabric.
-Use ribbon, glitter, lace, sequins, colorful pom-poms, fringe, faux flowers, feathers, or fancy applique pieces to create a decorative pumpkin that matches your personal style or your homes decor.
-Attach plastic spiders, gauze, and other creepy items to your pumpkin for a more traditional Halloween theme.

Retro 80s Neon Splatter Paint
(Itll be funky fresh if you change your regular porch light to a black light.)
-Spray paint your pumpkin solid black or white and allow it to dry completely.
-Mix water with multiple neon colors of acrylic paint until the paint thickens to maple syrup consistency.
-Dip a small craft brush in the paint, hold it 4-6 inches from the surface of the pumpkin, and lightly flick the handle near the brush repeatedly, moving the brush over different spots until the surface of the pumpkin is splattered to your liking.
-After the splatters have dried, place the pumpkin under a black light for a glowing effect.

Duct Tape and Temporary Tatts
(Youll have the edgiest pumpkin on the block!)
-Select temporary tattoos and transfer them to your pumpkin the same way you would adhere them to your skin.
-Purchase duct tape in different colors and designs. Cut the duct tape into pieces and shapes, then stick the tape to your pumpkin in fun designs and patterns. Added bonus you can use any leftovers for temporary home repairs.

The Puncture and Drill Team
(Like outpatient surgery, these options are minimally invasive, but still involve no precise surgical carving skills.)
-Purchase tacks/pushpins with colorful or decorative heads, such as the ones used on maps to mark places youve visited or other shapes and colors. Stick thumbtacks into your pumpkin to create strategic or whimsical designs.
-Use a portable drill to burrow holes in your pumpkin near the stem area, so you can plug in small berry-covered branches or slightly larger branches to hang fall-hued leaves, tiny fairy string lights, or paper bats and ghosts.

Grows To Fill Community's Needs

By Ellen Samsell Sales

For almost 20 years, Woodstock Pediatric Medicine, P.C. (WPM), in the hub of Woodstock, has provided comprehensive and compassionate care to children from birth to age 21. And just as the communitys population has continued to grow, so too has the practice, adding practitioners, a second building, and new technology. Now again, the practice is growing to better serve patients and families.

By early 2020, three more practitioners will have joined the WPM family; more treatment rooms will be available; current spaces will be renovated; and new state-of-the-art technology will better serve patients and families.

Growing To Serve Patients Better
Every part of a patients life is important, says Dr. Chineye Iheme. That shared belief is manifested in the anticipated addition of a lactation consultant, a nutritionist, and a child psychiatrist and/or counselor.

We see such a need in our county for these specialists, and resources seem to be getting smaller and smaller due to the problems of location and acceptance of insurance, explains Kelly Marulanda, practice administrator.

WPMs doctors agree that adding these specialists will enhance the teams ability to address patients needs.

WPMs medical professionals see themselves not as individual providers but as a family treating other families, according to Dr. Iheme. We feel like a big family, she said. I felt it when I first interviewed. Together, they work to provide the best, most comprehensive care to patients.

Exchanging ideas, discussing treatments, and knowing what their colleagues are treating are part of each day according to Dr. Ferdinand Yates.

Everyone is willing to help, added nurse practitioner Milan Wade. We want to have all the resources needed to be successful in treating our patients.

The new staff members will complement the current team of six pediatricians and two nurse practitioners: Jordana Heaven, M.D.; Thanh Tam Le, M.D.; Adriana Rzeznik, M.D.; Frini Shah, M.D.; Ferdinand Yates, M.D.; Shannon Dobson, C.P.N.P.; and Milan Wade, C.P.N.P.

While each of these practitioners has areas of specialization, including newborns and breastfeeding, diabetes and nutrition, asthma and respiratory medicine, adolescent medicine and behavior issues, depression, and parenting, all work together to provide compassionate care to their patients.

Facilities To Expand and Improve
Patients can look forward to larger waiting rooms, more treatment rooms, and renovation of current spaces all geared to create a more comfortable environment for patients, Marulanda said.

The additional space will also serve as both an education and a support center providing areas for group meetings where specialists can share guidance about significant medical concerns including lactation, nutrition, and depression.

Because todays parents have access to so much information, Dr. Yates explained, Woodstock Pediatric Medicine recognizes that it is vital that professionals help parents filter and understand that information. We provide guidance and focus on what is germane to their case.

As part of WPMs dedication to promoting good health, space will be dedicated to nutrition and diabetes treatment. Having a nutritionist on the team will allow one-on-one education and counseling of children and parents, so that they are equipped to make healthy eating choices.

Likewise, respiratory medicine and asthma treatment will be given designated space for exams, consultations, and education.

With complicated conditions, such as asthma, that can manifest in many forms, ongoing education will improve parents and childrens ability to manage their conditions, said Dr. Yates.

New space will also be available for lactation consultations where soon-to-be and new mothers can meet one-on-one with a lactation specialist, and where lactation support groups can meet and share their questions and experiences.


Technology To Improve Health
New hardware and software will mean quicker and more accurate laboratory tests and results for problems such as strep throat.

The results will come back faster, with more detailed information, said Marulanda. The new technology can help to keep children from becoming ill and speed up the recovery time for those who are sick.

We are doing this so our patients will come to us rather than exposing their children to viruses and illnesses from urgent care facilities and emergency rooms, Marulanda added.


Patient-Centered Teamwork
The changes in personnel and facility improvements are further evidence of the dedication that has earned WPM the loyalty of the Woodstock community.

Our patients and parents see us as part of their families, said Dr. Iheme. They come to us for advice.

Having established long and trusting relationships with families, Dr. Heaven, who joined WPM in 2002, is even welcoming children whose parents she treated early in her practice.


On-Going Education To Serve Patients
A less tangible improvement is the continuing education that staff members undergo, so that they remain up to date on current research, medications, and treatments.

Wisdom is knowing what is right today may change tomorrow, said Dr. Yates. We have to do anything we can to forearm our parents and patients, to be proactive, to be on top of current trends, rather than playing catch-up.

Responding to patients needs also means the practice takes steps such as adding expanded hours. For those families who struggle to make an appointment by 5:00pm, the practice is now open till 7:00pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, and Saturday from 8:00am-12:00pm. When Saturdays are especially busy, a second doctor is added to the schedule.

If a child needs to be seen, he or she is seen. No one is turned away, said Wade. And, if necessary, doctors and nurses adjust their daily schedules to better serve their patients.

We dont force our patients into a time slot, said Dr. Iheme. We dont watch the clock; we give each patient the time needed.


Treating the Whole Child
WPMs mission does not stop at seeing and treating their patients for medical concerns. In their dedication to serving the whole child, the practice has partnered with the national Reach Out and Read program.

This means that at every well child visit, from six months to 5 years old, each child receives a developmentally appropriate book. And so that the older children are not left out, the staff makes certain that they have extra books on hand for them.

As a vital member of the Woodstock community, giving back is integral to the practices philosophy. Active throughout the region, the team provides education booths at events and partners with Woodstock Elementary School by adopting a Woodstock family each holiday season and providing gifts and food that help make the familys holiday brighter. Patients and parents can also enjoy seeing artwork by local schoolchildren displayed at the practice.

Whether they are seeing a newborn for a first checkup, counseling an adolescent who is suffering with a weight problem, or discussing diabetes treatment with a parent, the practitioners at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine are dedicated to the health and well-being of their patients and families.

You have to have heart a for pediatrics a heart for children and for their parents, Dr. Yates said. You sense that when you meet our doctors.

Woodstock Pediatric Medicine

2000 Professional Way
Woodstock, GA 30188
770-517-0250
WoodstockPeds.com

Hours:
Monday-Friday
8:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-5pm

Saturday
Starting at 8:00am for all appointments

A Smarter Way to Bank

Now Serving Members in Alpharetta

New Alpharetta Branch Brings Smart Banking Even Closer to Home
Continuing to grow the tradition begun in 1951, LGE Community Credit Unions new Alpharetta branch the 13th full-service branch in the metro Atlanta area adds local convenience to LGEs well-known money saving services and personal touch.

Five personal financial advisors support Branch Manager Tim Henderson in delivering informed, yet personal attention.
When members walk into the branch, they receive quick attention and expert direction. Our employees are cross-trained to handle most banking needs, said Henderson. So, whether you have questions about opening a youth savings account, getting an auto loan, or applying for a mortgage, you will receive immediate assistance from a knowledgeable advisor. We dont transfer members from one person to another. Its a one-stop shop.

Like LGEs other branches, the Alpharetta location offers all the services of a bank plus a whole lot more. Members reap rewards from products like high rate checking, which on balances up to $25,000 pays a 2.00% APY; a VISA credit card that gives $50 cash back after making three purchases plus 1.00% cash back on all VISA purchases; and youth savings accounts. When opening a new account, members can save up to $250.

Our goal is that each member who visits our branch leaves happy and knowing that we have their best interests in mind, and we are here to serve them, Henderson said.

LGEs lower rates on loans also add up to member savings. Henderson encourages members to discuss LGEs products and services with a financial advisor or one of LGEs three certified financial officers. LGE products even include a full range of insurance such as car and home, renters, life, dental, and vision all at lower costs.

Committed to the financial well-being of LGEs members, Henderson added, Members are the core. Without our members, we are nothing, so we serve them the best we can. If we take care of our members, they will send us their friends and family members.

A Tradition of Offering Better Choices
Grown locally, LGE began as the dream of seven Lockheed Martin employees to find a better way to bank for their co-workers. That dream now means anyone, not just Lockheed employees, who lives in the metro Atlanta area can save money by banking with LGE.

At LGE, were about putting more money in your pocket to live life your way, Henderson said. And that means the best options and smarter banking choices for you and your family to help grow your finances.
With 67 years of expertise, LGE helps its 113,000 members in the Atlanta area build their wealth while receiving personal attention. Members bank with people who live here, have grown up here, and care about their neighbors and community.

Not-For-Profit Status Puts Money Where It Belongs In Members Pockets
How does LGE do it? As a not-for-profit entity, LGE Community is owned by its members and has a board of directors who are all volunteers. This means LGE saves money and returns that savings to members. LGEs goal is simple, Henderson assured: Help members build healthy financial futures through LGEs competitive personal and business banking options.

Making smart choices with LGE can begin almost at birth. A youth savings account can be opened as soon as the child has a Social Security number, Henderson said. And the child can have an account that yields 5.00% APY on the first $1,000 till they are 23.

For convenience, members can opt to use LGEs online and phone services. Mobile banking, mobile apps, alerts, bill pay, and 24-hour automated phone banking keep members informed and on top of their finances.

Employee Satisfaction Leads to Member Satisfaction
Theres a reason LGE has been consistently recognized among the top places to work in the annual AJC poll, Henderson said. The way LGE treats its employees is amazing, and that positive spirit transfers over to the treatment of members.

Helping Their Neighbors
LGE is also committed to giving back to the greater community through the LGE Foundation. In 2018, the Foundation donated $200,000 to local charities. Henderson and other Alpharetta employees have already hosted parties for Childrens Health Care of Atlanta and have volunteered to paint homes for families in need. Each year, the branch will support a local charity and will partner with a local middle or high school. These partnerships help teens become informed, so that they are encouraged to make smart choices even before they are financially independent.

Emphasizing the family spirit that has characterized LGE for 67 years, Henderson added, We hope to have our members build a financial relationship for life. They wont want to go anywhere else.

LGE
Community Credit Union

Alpharetta, GA 30004
770-424-0060
LGECCU.org

A Family With a Passion for Serving Their Community

By Marsha Cornelius

Back in the day, downtown Canton was a bustling shopping district with department stores that anchored additional shoe, toy, and pharmaceutical businesses. But when the Jones Mercantile building closed its doors in the 1970s, many other businesses either closed or moved to surrounding shopping centers.

Several storefronts were still shuttered when Farris Yawn moved his bookstore to Main Street in 2005.

Ive been working to improve Canton for the past 14 years, Yawn says. And there is still work to be done that I would love to be a part of. However, I am proud of what has been accomplished.

Canton City Council Accomplishments
As with any group, Yawn says, there needs to be a balance. We may sometimes agree to disagree, but nothing gets accomplished with bickering or refusing to work together. I think the more ideas brought forth, the better. The council that was in place when I was elected to serve has made a great team.

Since Yawn was elected to Canton City Council, much has been accomplished:

-Helped facilitate the deal that preserved the old Canton Elementary School and Mill Office buildings
-With Yawns election, there were enough votes to select Billy Peppers as Cantons city manager. Peppers has been a huge asset.
-Helped the city gain control of two major downtown landmarks the Jones Building and the old Canton High School (now City Hall)
-Paid off the debt for the Canton Theatre and the Fairways of Canton
-Made the fiscally responsible decision to consolidate the Canton Fire Department with Cherokee County Fire Department
-Rolled back or held steady the millage rate, so that Canton has the lowest rate of any city in Cherokee County at 5.4 mills
-The first city in Georgia to ban the retail sale of puppies and kittens
-Banned smoking in downtown Canton to simplify enforcement of state law that prohibits smoking near the entrance of a business
-Established a paving schedule, and repaved damaged streets
-Renamed a portion of Riverstone Boulevard Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard.

Yawn is up for re-election to the Canton City Council next month. There are more changes I want to see happen before I step aside, says Yawn.

In August, Yawn was nominated for the position of Mayor Pro Tem by the current mayor, Gene Hobgood. The city council voted and approved the nomination at the same meeting.

What Yawn Hopes to Accomplish

-Help Canton continue to grow responsibly

-Find a developer to renovate the Jones Building

-Apply successful techniques and strategies used downtown to revitalize south Canton and the Highway 5 corridor

-Continue to expand Cantons trail system, prioritizing connections to the Etowah River

-Expand the Citys water and sewer system to meet future needs

-Continue current fiscally responsible budgets and keep the millage rate low

-Seek solutions for traffic and parking issues


Helping Canton Grow Responsibly
In 2006, Yawn reorganized the Historic Downtown Merchants Association. That was the start of the slow but steady revitalization of Cantons downtown. Yawn also served on the Arts Center Board for six years and served as treasurer part of that time.

In 2010, Yawn and others joined the Main Street Program, which exists to equip business leaders with the tools they need to revitalize their communities. Yawn helped write the bylaws of Cantons Main Street Board and served on that board for four years.

The next step toward revitalization was the Vision for Canton 2050 Commission. We looked at short-term, middle, and long-term goals. Our best path is to emphasize what makes Canton unique, he says. I dont want to change the characteristics of our city. We dont want to become Roswell North.

Downtown is the heart of a city, Yawn says. I believe the way to keep Canton strong is with steady, sustainable growth. Thats infinitely more important than a quick flashy improvement that doesnt last. Its not always easy to please people who grew up in Canton as well as new residents who dont have a history here but want to be a part of a vital city. Thats one of the reasons I ran for a seat on the City Council in the first place, to be a part of this sustainable growth.

Im not a big fan of campaigning for re-election, says Yawn. What I love is the work. Digging into budgets or finding the best way to take on a project that will benefit Canton.

You can find more information about Yawns campaign at YawnForCanton.comYawns Publishing

YAWN'S PUBLISHING

The Evolution From Bookstore to Publisher

When we opened our bookstore, authors would ask us to sell their book, Farris Yawn says. But some of the books were poorly published, and their sale price was too high.

Nadine Yawn (Farris mother) wanted to help fledgling authors write better and assist them in getting their books published.

The Yawns held a writing workshop in the store with Carmen Tanner Slaughter as instructor. At the end of the class, Farris assembled all the participants short stories into a book. That experience led to further research into publishing, buying the necessary software, meeting cover designers and editors, and eventually becoming a full-service publishing company.

We customize our services to offer as much or as little help as the writer needs.

2555 Marietta Highway,
Suite 103
Canton, GA 30114
678-880-1922
YawnsPublishing.com

Arbor Terrace at Crabapple Celebrates Ten Years of Serving Seniors

When Arbor Terrace at Crabapple marks its 10th anniversary on October 24, staff members will celebrate a decade of providing excellent assisted living and memory care to seniors in the Milton, Alpharetta, and Roswell communities. Eleven staff members will also celebrate their 10th anniversary, as theyve been with the community since it opened in 2009.

We like to say that experience counts at Arbor Terrace at Crabapple, said Executive Director Sharon Egitton. The job of caring for seniors can be physically and emotionally demanding. We hire top-notch staff, and we value and support them. As a result, they stay with us and provide unparalleled care every day to our residents.

Arbor Terrace at Crabapple stands out for attracting and retaining compassionate team members the essential ingredient to ensuring residents receive consistent, exceptional care.

Nearly 30% of our staff members have been with us five years or more, and 40% are in their third year, or better, said Egitton. For many of us who work here, Arbor Terrace feels like home. Our colleagues, the residents, and their families they all feel like family to us.

Crabapples Atlanta-based parent organization, The Arbor Company, requires its employees to complete monthly training to provide careful, consistent care. They offer competitive pay and excellent benefits as well as more than 30 years of experience in the senior living industry. Arbor staff are valued and respected for the vital role they play in residents health and happiness.

Theres a vibe here that visitors feel right away, said Egitton. Our staff are truly focused on each individual. We work hard to create deep connections with our residents. We get to know them and love them.

Managers at all levels of the Arbor organization are supportive and respectful. Christine Cavanaugh, senior care counselor at the community, has experienced these admirable traits herself.

Theres nothing like getting a call at the end of the day from the companys president, who just picks up the phone to say, I heard you did a great job today! Thats the kind of support we enjoy as employees of The Arbor Company, said Cavanaugh.

Overseeing the care provided to residents at Arbor Terrace at Crabapple is Resident Care Director Shelia OConnell who is a registered nurse (RN) and her team of four licensed practical nurses (LPNs). A part-time RN, numerous med techs (staff trained to administer medications), and resident assistants round out the team.

Arbor Terrace at Crabapple offers assisted living as well as memory care for seniors living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia. While the quality of care and the experience of their staff attracts seniors and their families, residents also enjoy lovely surroundings, great amenities, gourmet dining, and a wide array of activities.

Our engagement programming is unparalleled in the industry, said Egitton. We have activities seven days a week, throughout the community, brought to us by our five energetic and highly talented professionals.

Arbor Terrace at Crabapple has an ongoing partnership with the George Center for Music Therapy and the Goddard School. Both programs provide intergenerational experiences that include singing and playing instruments along with the residents. The seniors are affectionately referred to as grandfriends by their little preschool-aged buddies. Additional programming includes Tai Chi, choir, continuing education classes, exercise, art classes, weekly outings, and more.

For adults of any age, living well means staying engaged in life: socially, physically, and mentally, Cavanaugh said. We make sure our residents never stop learning. Living at Arbor Terrace at Crabapple is a great new chapter in life. We work hard to make sure every single day is engaging.

Arbor Terrace at Crabapple
Assisted Living / Memory Care

770-649-1009
AT-Crabapple.com
12200 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004

By District Attorney Shannon Wallace

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men have reported sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. And over 43 million women and 38 million men have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to talk about a very difficult subject.

Domestic violence has most likely affected you or someone you know. For many years, violence within intimate relationships was kept behind closed doors and only considered to be a family problem. Fortunately, laws have started to change, making it harder for abusers to stay hidden. However, the dynamics of domestic violence have remained the same.

Often, intimate partner violence starts out as control and manipulation, steadily getting worse like a cancer slowly spreading, and the victim not recognizing how bad things are until its almost too late. For many reasons, victims choose to remain in these tumultuous relationships. For example, some hang on because its all theyve ever known. Many believe it will stop, and this assault will be the last one. They dont know how they will financially support themselves and their children. They fear the violence will get worse if they leave. They have religious beliefs that make it difficult to end a relationship, and the list goes on and on.

Criminal Prosecution

Some victims of domestic violence do not wish to proceed with criminal prosecution because the person who is hurting them is someone they care about. These cases are heartbreaking. However, without intervention, domestic violence often escalates, and typically, there are children involved.

The role of the District Attorneys Office is to individually review every incident of domestic violence that comes into the office to find a resolution that protects victims and society and prevents future violence.

The DAs office has a dedicated Domestic Violence Unit that specializes in prosecuting intimate partner violence, which enables victims to get the help they need. In 2018, this unit handled 106 total intimate partner cases in Cherokee County.

Domestic violence thrives in the dark. It takes a true act of bravery to break free from an abusive relationship and shed a light on this very real danger.

Where To Get Help

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, help is available.

1. Victims of domestic violence who are in imminent danger should call 911 immediately.
2. The Cherokee Family Violence Center offers services and housing in its Canton location. If housing is not available in Canton, CFVC will place families in a nearby location. CFVC.org. 24/7 Crisis Hotline 770-479-1703.
3. LiveSAFE Resources provides safety and healing to those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse. The organization offers services, creates awareness, and fosters support within the community. LiveSAFEResources.org. 24/7 Crisis Hotline 770-427-3390.

By Valerie Morelli

The Roswell Arts Festival will be held the weekend of September 21-22 on the Roswell Town Square. In its 53rd year, the event raises funds to support the Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historical and Cultural Affairs Department special projects and programs. This years event will feature more than 70 artists as well as live music and demonstrations.

Artists from throughout the Southeast participate in the festival. Visitors will find a variety of art forms to explore including paintings, photography, graphics, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, and crafts. Since its inception, the Festival has provided an opportunity for children to be artists by offering the chance to create their own painted masterpieces for free. Additional kid-friendly activities include face painting and a bouncy house. Adults will enjoy live entertainment by local artists as well as food trucks and an opportunity to show their artistic talents by adding to the community painting.

Jessica Barker, the artist coordinator for the Roswell Arts Festival Committee, is always excited to see what the artists have to offer.

Whether it is an artist who has exhibited with us for 20 years or someone who is doing their first show, the variety of work and techniques is a lot of fun to see, says Barker. Through the years, weve gotten more and more local artists. There is a lot of talent in our community.

Barker and others on the small committee credit the Festivals success to the Roswell residents who come back year after year. I love the sense of community within the Festival. Ive been coming to it since I was a child, and I enjoy being able to now bring my children and continue the tradition, says Barker.

Since its inception, the Roswell Arts Festival has raised more than $1 million to support programs throughout the city. Funds raised at the Festival have paid for the Riverside Sprayground, the Serenity Garden at Roswell Area Park, and contributed to the Rotary Dream Field at Groveway Community Park as well as many other initiatives.

Festival hours are 9:00am-5:00pm, with live entertainment beginning at noon each day. Shuttle service is available from Roswell City Hall. Limited artist space in certain categories is still available, as are sponsorship opportunities. Visit RoswellArtsFestival.com if interested or for additional information.

Check Out What's New

By Julia Aubin

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival, organized and hosted by the Service League of Cherokee County, is Cherokee Countys longest-running fall festival. More than 30 years ago, the Service League created Riverfest to raise funds for the children in Cherokee County whose families were facing hardships.

Riverfest hosts some of the Southeasts finest artists, crafters, and entertainment, which draws record-breaking crowds year after year. With a line-up of returning favorites and many new artists and crafters, the 35th Annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival is sure to be the best yet.

New to Riverfest this year is Industrial Interiors & the Nest. This vendor uses industrial piping and parts from old fire sprinklers that have been meticulously cleaned, grinded, polished, and refinished to create many home decor items such as lamps, wine racks, candelabras, jewelry stands, and shelves. Visit Industrial Interiors & the Nest and take home a unique fixture to complete your living area.  

Another exciting new vendor is Arnolds Art from the Heart. This husband and wife team paint and produce personalized Appalachian folk art. Their original paintings can even be personalized on-site at Riverfest. Be sure to check out this vendor in the arts and crafts area.

Riverfest is also pleased to host Victory Wave Woodworking and Leather by Veterans; great vendors that create one-of-a-kind treasures. Victory Wave Woodworking specializes in hand-carved, wavy wooden flags. Leather by Veterans has beautifully handcrafted leather belts, handbags, wallets, and so much more. They are both on the must-see list for Riverfest this year.  

Whether you are a regular or attending Riverfest for the first time, there is something for everyone. From arts and crafts and jaw-dropping entertainment, to pony rides, bounce houses, and delicious food trucks, youll find it all at this years Riverfest.

The Service League of Cherokee County will present the 35th Annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival from 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday, September 28, and 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday, September 29, at Etowah River Park (600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton). Admission for adults and children 11 and older is a requested $5 donation. The event will take place rain or shine. All areas will be handicap accessible. Free parking and shuttle service will be available.

Things You Learn While Having Spontaneous Fun

By Christopher Brazelton

Improvisation, the theatrical form where dialogue and action are made up on the spot, is not-so-suddenly all the rage. It has been a hit for a while and is a very accessible form of live performance for its audience.

Why improv? On the outside, audiences seem to be drawn to this form. But performing can be a very intimidating starting point to begin a life on the stage no script, no director, no guide just go. Perhaps that is just it the stakes are high. However, improv may offer more than you think to those who work in offices and boardrooms rather than on stage. Before you say, Thats not for me, here is some insight as to why you may want to do more than just watch improv. Improv has quite a bit to teach:

1. You learn to own your power.
In improvisation, you learn to be who you are, to be bold, to challenge conventions, and to question the rules. When you understand what you have to offer and know how to bring it forward, you own your power. You know your purpose, and you can act in a way thats deliberate, focused, and grounded in your values.

2. You learn to embrace your fear.
Fear is an undeniable element of improv, especially when its done in front of an audience. What if you flub a scene, or freeze up, or cant keep up with the group? You must learn to use those fears to fuel your performance, knowing that everyone gets it wrong sometimes. And its the same in leadership and business. Failure is part of every human enterprise and endeavor. Learning to embrace your fears helps you overcome them and learn to treat them as a conduit for greatness.

3. You develop better listening skills.
Improv is all about listening. In fact, listening is a key skill for all actors, allowing them to work off each other. In todays busy world, it can be hard to shut out the noise and be aware of the present moment, whether youre in the workplace or on stage. Listening skills help you silence the noise of your own thoughts, so you can hear and be present with another. Improvisation helps you build those skills in a creative and innovative way.

4. You learn the value of collaboration.
Acting, business, and life in general require collaborative skills. A well-rounded team is composed of people with differing abilities, personalities, and life experiences, working together and having each others respect and attention. This is true no matter where you apply it. Understanding each members strengths and weaknesses is crucial when it comes to keeping your team, friends, and family happy.

5. You learn to adapt and be agile.
Improv requires flexibility and agility. When something isnt working, the actors must often change things on the fly. In acting, you learn that change is just another part of the process of getting it right. In business, implementing even positive change can be challenging. But when leaders know how to communicate, they know how to address their staff in a way that empowers and includes them, bringing them along and making them feel they are part of something bigger than themselves.

6. You learn to build a great ensemble troupe.
A great ensemble is key to successful improvisation. The same is true for business and leadership. On stage, each team member has a part to play and a role to execute. If you can make each person on your team feel important and purposeful, youll have a team with nothing but stars.

7. You learn the importance of creativity and discovery.
Improvisation is about discovering and creating on stage, and the best teams in every field are equally fueled by these actions (along with hard work). Team discoveries create innovation and strengthened brands.

8. You learn to lead and to follow.
When an improv troupe is on stage, roles change and adapt seamlessly. The person who is leading one moment is following the next. True leadership is about that same ebb and flow. Sometimes, leaders lead with vision and goals; other times, they follow the ideas and innovation. You must know how to follow and lead at the same time.
Even if you never quit your day job, the skills you learn from improv can benefit you in all facets of life. Whether you take a class or just pay more attention the next time your favorite improv group is playing, watch and learn!

While the theatre at large can change the shape and face of a community, improv has an uncanny way to unwind the individual and create a better self, a better leader. So, go get involved, go improv, just try it! Who knows, you may find yourself in the spotlight as a leader.


Christopher Brazelton is the executive director at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org