“It’s
the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”
December ushers in the first day of winter/winter solstice (December 21), Hanukkah (December 14-22), Christmas (December 25), Kwanzaa (December 26-January 1), and New Year’s Eve (December 31).
With all its celebrations and festivities (be sure to check out our Events Calendar on pages 6-11 for fun activities close to home), many would agree that December truly is “the most wonderful time of the year.” But we must remember that there are also lots of people who struggle during the holiday season. So, if you can do anything to brighten someone’s day or lighten their load, it may be one of the most appreciated gifts you can give.
The expectations many have at this time of year can also breed stress, which may create sources of contention among friends and family, so don’t forget to love yourself enough to set some personal limits. A wise person once said, “Unconditional love doesn’t mean unconditional tolerance of abuse or disrespect — it’s not unconditional boundaries,” and it also shouldn’t require you to overextend yourself.
But, if we focus on the true “reason for the season,” the importance of each one of these upcoming holidays, we will notice that there is a common thread that runs through them all: light.
“Ring the bells that still can ring Forget your perfect offering There is a crack in everything That’s how the light gets in” -Leonard Cohen
Wishing you peace, love, and light,
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Julie Senger
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ART
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Armetrice Photography
ACabine@Armetrice.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
David Wright
David@FamilyLifePublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Cyndi Braun, Joshua Fuder, Bill Grant, Kevin Huff, Barbara P. Jacoby, Stacy Jones
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
Family Life Magazines
6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying feature story are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
© 2025 All rights reserved
Is Mistletoe the Kiss of Death for Your Trees?
By Joshua Fuder
[Home Life] The holiday season is filled with traditions and customs involving plants We decorate our spaces with a botanical buffet from small conifer trees, poinsettias, twig-filled wreaths, epiphytic cacti, and parasitic shrubs� The parasitic shrub I’m alluding to, of course, is mistletoe
Mistletoe is a small evergreen shrub that is technically semi-parasitic on other plants It can grow on more than 100 types of trees, most often found on oaks, poplars, hickory, pecan, red maple, and black gum trees� Instead of growing in the ground, mistletoe sends out root-like structures into the host it grows on and taps into the flow of the tree’s water and nutrients� Mistletoe contains chlorophyll, so it does make some of its own food
the kiss of death� To be effective, the branch would need to be cut back a few feet, so it meets another branch or the main trunk This is likely impractical for trees over 10 feet tall, so it’s best to tolerate the mistletoe and focus on preventing other stressors on your trees A 3-inch layer of mulch spread out to the drip zone and some irrigation during extended dry periods should help keep the tree (and mistletoe) healthy
Spreading and growing relatively slowly, mistletoe’s presence is not an immediate threat to tree health But if the tree appears to be stressed from other factors such as root damage, disease, extreme temperatures, or other challenging growing conditions, mistletoe can exacerbate the tree’s decline
If trees on your property contain mistletoe, you might be able to cut out the affected branches to slow the spread — so it doesn’t have to be
female plant
If you’d like to harvest some mistletoe for seasonal decor, be sure to select and place it carefully� Mistletoe is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants The berries on female plants are toxic if ingested, so either select male plants or keep the berries away from pets and children�
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. Contact the UGA Extension office for any gardening assistance, 70-721-7830 or CAES.UGA.Edu/extension/cherokee
DECEMBER
1-8
Santa’s Calling
If you’d like Santa and his elves to call your child(ren) this year, please complete a Santa’s Calling request form on the Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency website Forms must be mailed, dropped off at the Recreation Center, or emailed by 12/8 FREE! Santa and his elves will make calls 5:00-7:00pm on 12/10� The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
1-13
Letters From Santa — Would you like Santa to send your child a special letter? If so, drop off letters to Santa at the North Pole mailbox by 12/13 Santa will reply to each letter from his North Pole address� Parents, if your child’s handwriting is illegible, please leave a note for Santa’s elves FREE! Regular hours, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
1-15
1-21
Historic Sweetscapes: A Gingerbread Journey
Through Cherokee County — See iconic buildings and spaces of Cherokee County turned into gingerbread works of art by local bakers� 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
1-30
Holiday Lights of Woodstock
This event features a huge walk-thru Christmas light display It’s the Christmas tradition for kids of ALL ages! Kids 12 and under are FREE� All others are $10 per person Season passes are $25 The display is closed on 12/24-12/25� Proceeds benefit the Anna Crawford Children’s Center 6:00-9:00pm Sunday-Thursday and 6:0010:00pm Friday-Saturday, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. HolidayLightsOfGa.com
Hugs in a Blanket — Through 12/15, Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency is accepting new blankets and unisex slipper socks for residents of Cherokee County nursing centers� Donations accepted during regular business hours at the WREC (7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock), the Buzz (7345 Cumming Highway, Canton), and the Cherokee County Aquatic Center (1200 Wellstar Way, Canton). 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
ONGOING
Framed in Time: Cherokee County in 50 Images
Through January 2026, celebrate History Cherokee’s 50th anniversary by viewing this exhibit of more than 100 years of life in Cherokee County through 50 photographs� Admission is $5 for adults, free for youth� 10:00am-5:00pm TuesdaySaturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
Car-B-Que at the Flat Second Sunday of each month. 10:00am-2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/ CarBQueAtTheFlat
1-31
Holiday Lights at Veterans Park — Take a ride in your car through a two-mile light show featuring two drive-thru tunnels, animated Christmas displays, and over two million lights! Admission is $20 per car or $50 for a season pass Proceeds will benefit various local charities 6:00-9:00pm Sunday-Thursday and 6:00-10:00pm Friday-Saturday, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. HolidayLightsOfGa.com
4-7
Christmas at Reinhardt
December Is
National Pear, Writing a Business Plan, and Tie Month as well as Gift of Sight, Operation Santa Paws, Worldwide Food Service Safety, and Universal Human Rights Month
5
The University Christmas concerts draw large, festive crowds every year, featuring the School of the Arts Choir and Wind Ensemble� Tickets are $20 per person� 7:30pm Thursday/Friday and 3:00pm Saturday/Sunday, Flint Hall at the Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
4, 11, 18
Downtown Canton Mistletoe on Main — Experience a bit of Christmas nostalgia in Canton by enjoying a complimentary wagon ride through downtown, as you take in the lights and beauty of the city Be sure to stop by the gazebo to visit Santa! 5:30-8:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Facebook.com/DowntownCantonGA; CantonGa.gov
March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots — Enjoy floats, tractors, antique cars, famous characters, marching bands, and dancers� Parade attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots campaign� Collection boxes will be lining the sidewalks throughout downtown 7:009:00pm, downtown Ball Ground, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. MarchOfTheToysParade.com; DTBallGround.com
5-6
Holiday Tour of Homes
Enjoy a special tour of some of Woodstock’s beautiful historic homes and businesses decorated for the holidays Tickets are $30-$35� 5:30-9:00pm Friday and 10:00am3:30pm Saturday. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
[continued on page 8]
The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty) — On the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, connect with individuals who fill grandparent roles and bring honor to Christ through grandparenting Glean fresh ideas and find a confidential place to share experiences with new friends who can relate� 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
Community Yoga Classes
On Monday mornings, bring your mat for a FREE yoga class� 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
Scan
Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
5,
12, 19, 26
Holiday Screen on the Green — Enjoy a popular Christmas movie on the big screen! Bring your blankets and wear your Christmas PJs� FREE! 7:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com
6
22nd Annual Reindeer Run for the Children 5K, 10K, and Fun Run
Hosted by the Service League of Cherokee County, this event benefits children in need in Cherokee County� The entry fee is $35-$40� 7:00am registration, 8:00am fun run, 8:30am 5K/10K; Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net
6
Swim With the Grinch — Help decorate the in-water holiday tree, play pool games, get a picture with the Grinch, or make some arts and crafts� The fee is $10-$15 per person 9:00am-10:15am or 10:45am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
6 Veterans Breakfast
With Santa Veterans with children under 13 are invited to kick off the holiday season with a pancake breakfast and pictures with Santa FREE! 10:00am-1:00pm, American Legion Thomas M. Brady Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. 678-983-7590. CherokeeHomelessVets.com
6
Home Town Christmas by the GlowBand — Sing along with the GlowBand to your favorite holiday classics Tickets are $37-$42 6:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. TheGlowBand.com
6-7
Holiday Market — Get all your shopping done at this festive community event 11:00am6:00pm, downtown Ball Ground, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. BSheepEvents.com
6, 13, 20 Downtown Canton
Visit With Santa — Visit with the jolly ol’ elf himself Don’t forget your camera! 2:00-5:00pm, Cannon Park gazebo, 130 East Main Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov, Facebook.com/DowntownCantonGA
BINGO for Charity! — Every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, play BINGO to help raise money for the local community, Moosehaven (a senior retirement community), and Mooseheart (a school for children in need) 7:30pm Wednesdays/Fridays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Family Moose Center, 278 Moose Loop Road, Canton. 770-479-8300.
Trivia Night — Each Thursday night, gather your dream team and compete for prizes 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-7629950. EtowahMill.com
In this session with UGA’s Small Business Development Center, learn to master financial management, analyze your numbers, and create strategies for sustainable growth FREE to attend, but registration is required� 9:0011:00am, Thrive Canton at The Mill, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-0600. GeorgiaSBDC.org
12-13 National Wreaths Across America
On 12/12, families with loved ones buried at Georgia National Cemetery can obtain a wreath at the front gate to place on their loved ones’ gravesites� Volunteers will place wreaths on the remaining gravesites on 12/13, which will be followed by a formal ceremony honoring our heroes 3:30pm-sunset family wreath placement on 12/12; 9:00am volunteer wreath placement and approximately 10:30am ceremony on 12/13; Georgia National Cemetery, 101 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton. 678-852-4591. Salty31@hotmail.com. Facebook.com/ GaNational; GANationalCemetery.org
12 Christmas in Canton
Festivities include a visit with Santa, a petting zoo, face painting, wagon rides, a balloon artist, s’mores station, inflatables, a decorated cookie station, make-and-take crafts, Christmas Pete, a wreath making station and more! Shops will be open late for shopping, and restaurants will be ready to welcome you 6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Facebook.com/ events/2081507586012640
12-20 A Dicken’s Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts
Presented by Cherokee Theatre Company, in this zany retelling, a small theatre company scrambles to stage the holiday favorite, but everything that can go wrong does� This production is recommended for ages 5+ $19-$22 8:00pm Fridays/Saturdays and 2:00pm Sundays, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CherokeeTheatre.org
Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting — First Thursday of each month. 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/ Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
[continued on page 10] Serving Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, and
Women on Wheels Clinic and Ride — On the first Saturday of each month, join this welcoming community of women to learn, build confidence, and foster friendships through mountain biking 10:00am-12:00pm, Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trails, 2261 Sixes Road, Canton. 770-846-7979. BearPawCoaching.com/women-on-wheels
14
Visit With Santa on the Falany Front Porch — Drive to the front of the Falany, take photos with Santa, drop your letter in the North Pole mailbox, grab a goodie bag, and be on your merry way! FREE admission (please visit website for tickets to attend) 1:00-4:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center (front porch), 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
13
38th Annual Downtown Canton
13
Science Saturday:
The Science of a Snowflake
How do snowflakes form? What gives a snowflake its shape? Find out the answers to these questions and more, plus participate in a fun science experiment The event fee is $8 for program participants, $5 for accompanying adults� 10:30am-12:00pm and 1:00-2:30pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
GA Merry Market — Enjoy a festive afternoon exploring small business vendors and downtown shops, visiting with Santa, indulging in great food, and more! 12:00-6:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Facebook.com/events/1313470913338439
13 Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
Following the parade, be sure to bring a camera to snap a pic of your kids with Santa and grab a complimentary hot chocolate and cupcake! 11:00am, Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us
13
38th Annual Canton
Optimist Christmas Parade and Food Drive — Downtown Canton sets the scene for this festive parade� Attendees are encouraged to drop off nonperishable food items for the Cherokee High School Food Pantry at the Optimist tent beside the stage� 6:00pm, downtown Canton, 130 East Main Street, Canton. 470-380-5405. Sites.Google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/ programs/christmas-parade-information
14
The Grinch 2018 Film (PG)
The Grinch hatches a scheme to ruin Christmas when the residents of Whoville plan their annual holiday celebration� FREE admission (Please visit the website for tickets to attend) 4:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center (Flint Hall), 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women Build
On the third Tuesday of each month, women are invited to have fun making a difference in the community while building lasting change No building experience is required 6:30-7:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/women-build
MilVet Meetup
First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
19
Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10 All proceeds support local seniors� 11:30am-1:00pm, Camellia Place, 294 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
20 Santa Paws Saturday — Cherokee County Animal Shelter is hosting this event, which includes collecting donations of pet food and supplies, pet adoptions and microchipping available, donuts and coffee, and the option to register for 2026 concert tickets from Live Nation Premium Experiences 1:00-3:00pm, The Gathering On Main, 8826 Main Street, Woodstock. Facebook.com/ CherokeeCountyAnimalShelter
23
Holiday Movies at Canton Theatre
Celebrate the holiday season with popular movies Elf (rated PG) and White Christmas (rated G) on the big screen for only $5 per person� 3:00pn (Elf) and 7:00pm (White Christmas), Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov
Adults With Aging Parents Seminar
Third Thursday of each month. 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events
21
Homeless Veteran Candlelight Vigil — Over 40,000 homeless veterans are living on the streets in America today, many with untreated mental health issues December 21 is the longest night of the year, so it’s the longest night that homeless vets will spend out in the cold This event is to raise awareness for those men and women� Sundown (approximately 5:30pm), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 678-983-7590. CherokeeHomelessVets.com
JANUARY
24
Cherokee Music Teachers Association Meeting and Masterclass — There will be a short business meeting followed by a masterclass in the concert hall� Students chosen by audition will play for clinician Martha Thomas, professor of piano at UGA, and receive coaching The event is FREE and open to the public 9:00am, Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. linda@lokey.net
Have a Merry Humble Christmas
By Rev. Kevin Huff
[InGood Faith] Christmas is my favorite time of year because we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ� The fact that God himself came to Earth and was made in the likeness of men by way of the virgin birth in a lowly stable and took up the role of a servant absolutely blows my mind�
Jesus’ birth is the greatest display of humility that has ever been seen The apostle Paul explains this in Philippians 2:7 when he says, “But made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a servant and was made in the likeness of men�”
One of the ways I know the Bible is truly the Word of God is because man would have never written something that exposes himself the way the Bible exposes God� Man is too prideful For example, most men do not like to hear, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)� People do not want to humble themselves and admit that they are sinners who fall short of God’s glory� They want to boast about all their accomplishments in life� They think that
their great accomplishments automatically grant them a home in heaven
Well, this could not be further from the truth because of the words that the apostle Paul says in Philippians 2:8, “And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross ”
The only thing that assures a person a home in heaven is the fact that Jesus died on the cross for our sins� The Bible says, “In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace,” (Ephesians 1:7)�
If you want to go to heaven, humble yourself before God and admit your need for forgiveness to receive the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord� That is the greatest gift you could receive this Christmas
770-213-1690. HopewellBaptist.com
Kevin Huff is the senior pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton.
For17 years, River Fine Jewelry in Riverstone Shopping Center has offered excellent customer service and fine jewelry at reasonable prices.
Owner Ibrahim Ehican is the third generation of his family in the jewelry business. Both his father and grandfather were jewelry artisans, making custom jewelry in Istanbul, Turkey. Ibrahim came to America more than 20 years ago to continue his family’s business.
Today, Ibrahim, his wife Beyhan, and other family members enjoy serving customers at River Fine Jewelry. The Ehicans live out their Christian values in the way they interact with their patrons and conduct their business.
“We are not just a ‘jewelry store.’ We are a family,” said Ibrahim. “We strive to make our customers happy. We consider customers our friends, and we are willing to work with them to make their dreams come true.”
The shop carries a broad selection of jewelry, including hundreds of engagement rings, many high-end watches, and a custom-made collection that includes unique jewelry sold nowhere else. Customers often remark that the store’s selection is better than any other
CELEBRATING 17 Years IN CANTON
By Cyndi Braun
store around, perhaps because Ibrahim custom-makes 70% of the jewelry.
“This jewelry store is the best in the Canton area,” said William Cody in a Google review. “They have a huge inventory of engagement rings, diamond tennis bracelets, stud earrings, and many more. The owner is very friendly and professional. Highly recommended!”
Helpful employees can answer questions about individual pieces of jewelry. They educate and inform customers, and they take the time to get to know each customer, so they can help him or her find the perfect piece of jewelry at the right price.
Many customers enjoy being involved in creating a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry for a special milestone, such as an engagement or anniversary. River Fine Jewelry works with these customers throughout the design process to create a unique piece of jewelry. The entire procedure, start to finish, is completed in-house.
The store also has a jewelry repair and watch center, where employees can repair jewelry while customers wait. They repair watches and replace batteries for Swiss
“Truly one-of-a-kind pieces. So many places have the same old generic stuff. Owners are knowledgeable and forthright. Any reasonable issues or concerns are addressed to your satisfaction.” – Christopher Hobel
“Great selection and great prices! The owner, Ibrahim, knows his stuff, very friendly, and very accommodating! He will even custom-make jewelry for you. Highly recommended!” – Rob Motiwalla
watches such as Rolex, Omega, Breitling, Ebel, Raymond Weil, Tag Heuer, and many more. In addition, River Fine Jewelry offers same-day insurance appraisals and purchases gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, and Rolex watches.
Whatever the customer needs, River Fine Jewelry is ready to help.
“We offer the finest jewelry and the best customer service,” said Ece Ehican. “We do our best to make our customers happy, and we look forward to helping them choose the perfect gift this December.
River Fine Jewelry is a 2024 Cherokee Life Best of Cherokee Award Winner Finalist in the jewelry store category.
RIVER FINE JEWELRY
1431 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 160, Canton 678-880-0400 RiverFineJewelry.com Facebook.com/riverfinejewelry
December Hours
December 1-5 — 10:30am-6:00pm December 6 — 11:00am-7:00pm
December 7 — closed
December 8-13, 15-20 — 10:30am-7:00pm
December 21 (Sunday) — 12:00-5:00pm December 22-24 — 10:30am-7:00pm
“River Fine Jewelry provides affordable high-quality jewelry. The website is easy to navigate and full of information and excellent photos. The owner is most professional and a pleasure to deal with.” – Pat Flynn
17TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Everything in the store will be marked through December 24!
Stop by for the best selection and service – and get that special someone something special!
Community
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Optimists Honor CCSD Special Education Students and Staff
The Holly Springs Optimist Club recently honored outstanding special needs students and their supportive teachers and staff at its annual High School Awards breakfast� The 2025 honorees are:
• Leah Weatherby - Cherokee HS
• Billy Zambrano - Creekview HS
• Israel Delgado-Mayo - Etowah HS
• Parker Fick - River Ridge HS
• Tylor Armstrong - Sequoyah HS
• Jason Henderson - Tippens Education Center
• Jack Brewer - Transition Academy
• Ethan Simmons - Woodstock HS
• Jordan Hofmeister - Tippens Education Center, Teacher award for Outstanding Achievement in Education
• Jess Cardenas - Etowah HS, Paraprofessional of the Year
Creekview HS Students Win at National Career Skills Competition
Team members are (L-R) Ava Lindner, Amaya Nebel, Cailyn Toney, Natalie Giannini, and Chloe Hiett. Their Career Pathways agriculture teachers and FFA advisors are Chloe Lynch and Wyatt Wilkie (not pictured).
The Creekview HS team won sixth place in the country in the National FFA Convention’s veterinary science competition
The team members earned additional individual honors at the national event, with Nebel placing fifth overall and Hiett placing 14th among 180 contestants Toney earned a Gold ranking and Giannini earned a Silver ranking�
Seniors Named National Merit Commended Students
Thirteen seniors have been named National Merit Commended Students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation� They are among the only 2-3% of the Class of 2026 honored nationwide with the recognition, which is based on outstanding PSAT scores� They are now eligible for special National Merit Scholarships that will be awarded in the spring
Congratulations to Jacob Duncan, Mariana Federico, Joseph Jarvis, Grayson Prien, and Reese Wendel of Cherokee HS; Chase Johnson, Matthew Niles, and John Merrill Williams of Creekview HS; Hailey Yager of Etowah HS; Udi Gitau and Keshav Patchalla of River Ridge HS; James Driscoll of Sequoyah HS; and Aeneas Maniatis of Woodstock HS�
Macedonia ES administrative team
Macedonia ES Wins Top State Honor for Excellence in Education
Macedonia ES has won the prestigious School Bell Award from the Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals, which is presented to no more than 10 schools each year in recognition of outstanding curriculum and organizational leadership initiatives� Macedonia ES, led by Principal Dr� Carrie O’Bryant, earned the award for its initiative, “Redefining Professional Learning Communities: Shifting the Focus From Achievement to Student Growth to Increase Teacher Ownership�” The school’s assistant principals are Tracy Sparks and Melissa Venezia
Ten Students Win STEM Scholarships
Winners of the Cherokee County NAACP 2026 STEM Scholarship Program are Kobe Fitzgerald, Cherokee HS; Anaya Lawrence,
Creekview HS; Hannah Oduselu and Aneesa Turner, Etowah HS; Udi Gitau and Manuel Tombe Tamga, River Ridge HS; and Kaydence Edwards, Ashley Graham, Mmesomachi Igwilo, and Jori Jones, Woodstock HS
Affordable Workforce Housing Being Considered for Cherokee County
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners is considering a workforce housing overlay district that would provide more housing for residents who work in Cherokee County� The Board heard the first presentation on the topic by Zoning Administrator Thomas Trawick at the Oct 21 work session�
In recent years, many large employers, including Northside Hospital, WellStar, the Cherokee County School District, and county and city leadership, have expressed concern that their employees cannot afford to live where they work Additionally, many young professionals are struggling to find affordable housing after they move out of their parents’ house and/or return home from school
“The homes would be designated for owner-occupancy, likely by modest-income community heroes like public safety personnel, nurses, and teachers,” said Chairman Harry Johnston� “The intent is to provide the opportunity for home ownership by these essential members of the workforce Without it, they may face a lifetime of rental housing that’s much less desirable for them and the community�”
Cherokee County and leaders from cities, nonprofits, employers, and other interested parties have regularly met over the past two years to help find solutions to the affordable housing problem, learning from other jurisdictions and researching what has worked and what has not�
The floating overlay would be the first of its kind, allowing flexibility with development regulations and providing more opportunities for affordable housing options for residents who work in the county� It could be applied in a residentially zoned area of Cherokee County and must meet several criteria:
• Properties must be 10 acres or less in size�
• Units will be reserved for residents making 80% or less of the area median income
• Public water and sewer must be accessible
• Properties must be within two miles of I-575, I-75, or Highway 92�
• Seventy-five percent of surrounding properties shall be developed or under construction
• Properties must be located with a character area supporting residential as the primary land use
Housing could be attached or detached singlefamily residential, and the county could use tools such as deed or land use restriction agreements, confirmation of a second mortgage, and a good neighbor agreement, which acts as a covenant�
If implemented, the review process would include a public hearing before the Board of Commissioners if one or more of the criteria are not met or as determined by the Planning and Zoning Director If all the criteria are met, the proposal would undergo an administrative review and could be approved by county staff� If the Board of Commissioners chooses to move forward, a public hearing to amend the zoning ordinance to add the floating overlay would be held�
Commissioners Approve Design/Build
Contracts for New Fire Stations and Justice Center Expansion Project
Fire Stations 5 and 29 Replacements
A design-build agreement to construct a replacement Fire Station 5 on East Cherokee Drive and a replacement Fire Station 29 on Cumming Highway, the former site of Buffington Elementary School, was approved� Fire Chief Eddie Robinson indicated Fire & Emergency Services plans to operate out of the current Station 5 while the new station is constructed� Once the new station is opened, the old station will be demolished�
The Capital Projects Team and fire department leadership will work with the design-builder to re-task the historic structure of the former Buffington School while maintaining access to the adjacent cemetery The former school building will be used by Fire & Emergency Services’ Fire Education Department, and a new Fire Station 29 will be constructed on the former campus
Justice Center Expansion Project
A professional services agreement with Goodway Mills and Cawood (GMC) and subconsultant Jericho Design Group to provide program and concept verification for the Justice Center Expansion Project to prepare schematic design documents suitable for use by a construction manager The preliminary design services were approved not to exceed $550,000�
General Services Agency Director K Scott Gordon, AIA, told the Board that shortly after the design professional is on board, the county will seek to bring on a construction manager at risk to work with the county stakeholders and design team to establish the total project budget and scope, then align what is possible using the SPLOST funds earmarked for the Justice Center expansion� The goal is to construct a building addition along North Street first, starting as soon as the late second quarter or early third quarter of 2026, which will run parallel with a parking deck planned by the City of Canton as part of its North Street Redevelopment Project to serve both projects�
In the race to succeed Sandy McGrew as Ward 1 Councilor, Darrell Rice ran unopposed� For the Ward 2 Council seat, Bryan Roach (incumbent) was reelected with 2,510 votes (57 7%), while opponent Pennie L� Clopton received 1,841 votes (42�3%)� In the Ward 3 race, Dwayne Waterman (incumbent) was reelected with 2,149 votes (50�2%), and opponent Todd Smith received 2,131 votes (49�8%)� The winners of these three races will be sworn in for four-year terms at the January 8, 2026, council meeting�
In the Cherokee County Special Election, the Transportation Special Purposes Local Option Sales Tax passed with 25,132 YES votes (60 4%) and 16,479 NO votes (39 6%) The Senior Homestead ExemptionSurviving Spouse Amendment passed with 36,380 YES votes (87�8%) and 5,051 NO votes (12 2%)
Recreation and Parks Honored With Agency of the Year Award
For the seventh time, Cherokee County Recreation and Parks has been named the Georgia Recreation and Parks District 5 Class A Agency of the Year at the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association Awards Banquet, illustrating its exceptional delivery of quality parks, recreation, and programming opportunities for Cherokee County’s nearly 300,000 residents
DIY Christmas Ornaments DIY Christmas Ornaments
Add a Personal Touch to Your Tree
By Julie Senger
Old Fashioned Salt Dough Ornaments
Materials
(Please read the procedure for optional decorative items you may want to use )
() 4 cups all-purpose flour
() 1 cup salt
() 1 1/2 cups warm water
() Parchment paper
() Cookie cutters
() String or ribbon
Procedure
1� Preheat the oven to 250 degrees�
2 Whisk together flour and salt in a mixing bowl until well combined�
3� Gradually stir in water until the dough forms You may also add food coloring or cinnamon to the dough at this stage�
4� Transfer the dough to a piece of floured parchment paper and knead until soft and pliable
5� Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch and cut desired shapes with cookie cutters
6� Make any desired decorative impressions in the dough at this stage (paw prints or fingerprints, etched markings, imprinted words, etc�)�
7 Transfer the parchment paper with the ornaments onto a cookie sheet and use a toothpick to make a hole in each ornament for hanging
8� Bake in the preheated oven until hard, about 1-2 hours For flat, even
Paint Brush Christmas Gnome
Materials
() 2” Chip brush with plain wooden handle
() Acrylic paint (2 colors of your choosing)
() White faux fur
() 2 Googly eyes
() 1 Red pom-pom (10mm)
() Ribbon or string for hanging
() Glue gun and glue stick
() Small paint brush (to paint the chip brush handle)
() Holly and berries craft stickers (optional)
ornaments, you may also let them air-dry, but it may take a few days, and you’ll need to flip them over each day until dry�
9� If baked, allow the ornaments to cool to room temperature after removing from the oven�
10� If desired, decorate with acrylic paint and craft varnish (pictured above) to preserve� You may also use hot glue or Mod Podge to adhere other decorations such as glitter, feathers, jewels, etc�, to the ornament�
11 Thread a ribbon or string through each hole and tie the ends together to create a hanger�
Procedure
1� Paint the front and back of the wooden brush handle of the chip brush in your chosen color Allow to dry for about 30 minutes Add another coat of paint if needed�
2� Paint your chosen design (stripes, polka dots, etc ) on the front of the handle using your chosen paint color and allow to dry
3� Cut a 1-1/4” high by 4-1/2” long piece of fur to wrap around the metal band on the paint brush and use hot glue to adhere it� Be sure
Tealight Snowman
Materials
() Battery-operated tealight
() Black permanent marker
() Orange permanent marker
() Ribbon (1/2” wide for scarf and skinny ribbon or string for hanging, color and design of choice)
() 1 Pipe cleaner (to match your chosen color scheme)
() 2 Pom-poms (5 or 6mm to match your chosen color scheme)
() Glue gun and glue stick
the pipe cleaner later for hanging
5 Add a dab of hot glue where each ear would be and adhere the pom-poms to create earmuffs�
6 Cut a 4 5” piece of 1/2” wide ribbon, cross it over itself to look like a scarf, and add a dab of hot glue at the crossing point to hold
Procedure
1� Use the black marker to draw the snowman’s eyes and mouth onto the tealight
2 Use the orange marker to color the flame orange, so it looks like a carrot when not lit�
3� Cut a piece of pipe cleaner to approximately 2” long and curve it around the top of the tealight
4� Add a small bit of hot glue to hold the ends of the pipe cleaner to the tealight, leaving space at the top unglued, so you can slide the ribbon/string under
to leave a little bit of the metal exposed at the bottom of the fur for the next step
4 Use hot glue to adhere the googly eyes to the exposed portion of the metal band under the fur
5 Use hot glue to attach the red pom-pom nose to the paintbrush bristles, below and centered between the eyes�
Add a small line of glue to the inside back of the “scarf” (the part that would rest against the back of the neck) and adhere it to the back of the tealight so that the crossed part of the scarf is facing the same way as the snowman’s face (see photo of
Cut a piece of the skinny ribbon or string to be approximately 6” long, slide it under the pipe cleaner, and tie the ends together to create a hanger�
6� (Optional) Peel the backs off 2 holly leaf stickers and 3 berry stickers and adhere to the left side of the hat fur (see image for an example of placement)
7� Cut a 6” to 8” piece of ribbon or string, put it through the hole in the handle, and tie the ends together to create a hanger
Social Media and Seniors ‘Tis the Season for Romance Scams
By Stacy Jones
[Lifestyle] Recently, a friend shared that her mother had fallen victim to social media scams Her mom thought she was talking to celebrities online and that she was in a relationship with a celebrity� The daughter was understandably concerned and saddened that her mother had been deceived And just as many have seen play out on television talk shows, her mom refused to believe this relationship was fake and that this person was being dishonest She fell for all the tricks She purchased gift cards She waited for the person to come pick her up, and of course, they never showed up�
While unfortunate, this woman was lucky that she only lost the funds for the gift cards and suffered a broken heart� Many seniors lose much more money and assets to these types of schemes
Older adults are most vulnerable to these “sweetheart/romance” scams� Why?
• Many seniors come from an age with less technology. They were raised in an era when you could trust someone based on their word and a handshake�
• They are lonely. Women seem to be most prone to these scams, and the delusion related to this type of relationship can run deep� Those who fall for these cons are often combative
and dismissive when families try to stop the relationship, not accepting the rationality of what is happening
Based on recent research, those who fall victim to these frauds may be living with depression, emotional distress, or cognitive decline Though most of us would expect our loved ones to understand the situation isn’t real, it’s often difficult to convince them that the relationship is a sham because they want to avoid heartbreak If the person’s perception of the situation is off, they may benefit from professional psychotherapeutic support to help them process both the deceit and the loss of what they believed was a real relationship
Sharing this information during the holiday season will hopefully raise awareness of the isolation many seniors experience during this time of year� It’s important to keep an eye on your elder loved ones’ social media accounts to be aware of any unusual conversations that may be occurring For caregiver support, please call Cherokee County Senior Services at 770-345-5320�
Stacy Jones is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services
CelebratingAll of Canton’s 2025 Gems
By Mayor Bill Grant
Welcome to the holidays! It’s hard to believe this year is already coming to an end, but Canton is filled with the spirit of the season and has many exciting events, celebrations, and moments of connection that bring our community together on the horizon
As we look back, I think we can all agree it has been another busy and productive year for our city� I’m deeply grateful for all that we’ve accomplished together, and even more excited for what’s ahead in 2026, as we embark on major gateway projects in Sunnyside and along the North Street corridor� These transformative initiatives will beautifully frame both sides of our historic downtown — recently designated by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs as a Georgia Exceptional Main Street (GEMS) community� This honor, earned by only 22 of Georgia’s 536 cities, recognizes Canton’s long-term commitment to downtown revitalization, economic vitality, and innovation� Congratulations to everyone whose vision, dedication, and hard work made this possible�
I am profoundly thankful for our dedicated staff, local leaders, and community volunteers who work tirelessly to keep Canton moving forward Last month, I had the privilege of representing our city and Georgia’s District 3 at the Georgia Municipal Association’s Board of Directors meeting in Atlanta� My fellow board members, elected officials, and public servants from across the state are always curious about Canton’s “secret sauce” or what makes our city so successful While I often point to our citizen-driven Roadmap for Success, the overarching answer is our people
It’s the spirit of those who live, work, play, and serve here that makes Canton special� Staying focused on our shared vision isn’t always easy in these divisive times, but Canton continues to rise above the noise, delivering tangible progress that increases affordability and strengthens our well-being and quality of life�
I hope you’ll join me in taking a moment to reflect with gratitude on all that we’ve built and shared over the past year in Canton, especially those moments where we meet in the middle to enjoy all sides
Bill Grant is the mayor of the City of Canton. 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov
“I elevate the excellence in my classroom by fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally,” Lathem said. “Building strong relationships with my students creates a foundation where they feel safe, supported, and valued, which, in turn, promotes their success. We approach challenges as opportunities for growth — I consistently reassure my students of my belief in their potential and support them in meeting high expectations. By employing flexible grouping, tiered assignments, and enrichment opportunities, I strive to challenge all learners effectively.”
Laura Lathem Teacher Feature
BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
Laura Lathem first heard her calling to become a teacher when she was an elementary school student
“At the age of seven, I was inspired to become a teacher after my second-grade teacher allowed me to assist another student with various tasks throughout the year,” the Macedonia ES teacher said� “I particularly remember reading to him during our reading block — I felt he would sit for hours if I continued to read and help him as he struggled with reading This experience shaped my desire to follow my dream and motivated me to pursue a career where I find joy in exploring opportunities to impact lives�”
Lathem is now in her 28th year as an educator This school year, she is teaching AIM Gifted Program classes� Throughout her career with the Cherokee County School District (CCSD), she has taught first, second, third, and fifth grades, as well as Early Intervention Program students
“In my current role as a Gifted and Talented teacher, I find the flexibility within the curriculum, the joy of witnessing students uncovering their passions and exploring their talents, and the meaningful relationships I cultivate to be some of the most rewarding aspects of my job,” Lathem said�
Earlier this year, Lathem’s colleagues selected her to serve as Macedonia ES’s representative on CCSD’s newly formed Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council� The Cherokee County School Board envisioned the Council as an opportunity for educators to share valued feedback
Through a series of roundtable meetings held throughout the year, council members are providing Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis with professional insights to support CCSD’s mission to become the highest-performing school district in Georgia� Members are also called upon to share what they have learned from the Council meetings by making regular reports in school faculty meetings and, in turn, bringing back input to share with the superintendent and Council� The council members were selected by their peers and include teachers from all CCSD schools and centers�
Barbara P. Jacoby is the chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District. 770-704-4228. CherokeeK12.net
RibbonGroundCuttingsBreakings
