Canton Family Life February 2026

Love Yourself

Fe”brrrrrr”uary — like many of you, I’ve never understood why this month is spelled the way it is, because most people pronounce it “FEB-YOU-WARY” — even Merriam-Webster Dictionary says this is an acceptable pronunciation. So, maybe the “B” and the “R” are next to each other as a nod to how frigid it is outside most days. Regardless of how you pronounce it, our February issue of Canton Family Life is celebrating Black History Month with a really cool feature article on pages 20-21 about some of Cherokee County’s historical Black landmarks, so be sure to check it out!

Since Valentine’s Day is on the 14th, many folks also associate this month with chocolate, flowers, love, and snuggling up with their favorite person to get through the last full month of winter. What people are less excited to think about are things such as getting out from under the comfy warm covers early in the morning to get their daily workout in, knocking out whatever dreaded chore or work task they may be avoiding, or limiting their chocolate consumption so they don’t eat an unhealthy amount of fat and sugar.

But having the discipline to do what you know you should do when you don’t feel like doing it is paramount.

“Nobody wants to tell you why discipline is so important. Discipline is the strongest form of self-love. It is ignoring current pleasures for bigger rewards to come. It’s loving yourself enough to give yourself everything you’ve ever wanted,” said Brian Tracy, international personal and business goal consultant.

So even if you’re not coupled up with someone to celebrate this Valentine’s Day, you always have yourself – and there’s no time like the present to love who you are, who you’re becoming, and do everything possible to reach or maintain those New Year’s resolutions you may have set last month.

Have a fabulous February!

Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief

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

Bruce Baker, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, Stacy Jones, Jennifer Paire, Paige Waters

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.

© 2026 All rights reserved

Taste of

BY JULIE SENGER

February Recipes

Procedure

February is National Cherry Month as well as National Bake for Family Fun Month, and Valentine’s Day is February 14 What better way to celebrate these three occasions than to gather all your loves to bake a delicious treat that features cherries as an ingredient?

EASY CHERRY COOKIE CUPS

Ingredients

• 16 oz can of cherry pie filling

• 24-count storebought, break-apart sugar cookie dough

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• Nonstick cooking spray

1 Preheat the oven to 375 degrees

2� Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray�

3 Break apart the sugar cookie dough, roll 2 sections of raw cookie dough together

to make a ball, and place one ball in each of the 12 muffin cups

4� Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until dry to the touch but not browned on top�

5 After removing the cookies from the oven, immediately use a pastry tamper or the bottom of a cookie scooper or melon baller to create “cups” by pressing down in the center of each cookie

6 Let the cookie cups cool completely

7� Spoon cherry pie filling into each cookie cup�

8 Sprinkle powdered sugar on top of each cherry-filled cookie

February is also International Vegan Cuisine Month� This recipe allows you to create a quick, healthy meal that celebrates a plant-based diet while still providing 25 grams of protein per serving (serves 2)

VEGAN BUDDHA BOWL

Bowl Ingredients

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• 50 g cucumber, diced

• 50 g carrots, chopped or julienned

• 250 g quinoa prepared according to package instructions

• 200 g canned black beans, drained

• 200 g canned garbanzo beans, drained

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 40 g cashew nuts

• 1 lime, quartered

• 1 Tbsp cilantro

Spicy Peanut Dressing Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp smooth peanut butter

• 2 Tbsp soy sauce

• 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 Tbsp sesame oil

• 2 tsp agave syrup, sugar, or preferred sugar substitute

• Dash of red pepper flakes (add more or less to suit taste)

Procedure

1� Mix the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and set aside

2� Heat 2 tsp sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat�

3� Add the cooked quinoa, black beans, and garbanzo beans to the skillet and heat for 3 to 4 minutes

4� Divide the quinoa mixture between two bowls, then top with sliced avocado, cucumber, carrots, cashew nuts, cilantro, and the juice of 1 lime quarter over each bowl�

5 Divide the spicy peanut dressing into 2 ramekins and serve with the bowls�

1-10

Project Valentine

Cherokee Recreation & Parks will be collecting the following donations: lip balm, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, art or music activities, candy (sugar-free and regular), and other holiday-related items Donations are made into goody bags and delivered to Empower Cherokee and Next Step Ministries, which are nonprofit organizations that serve the special needs community Please drop off contributions to The Buzz, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton; Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton; or The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

ONGOING

FEBRUARY

1-28

Framed in Time: Cherokee County in 50 Images — 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� 10:00am5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

4 & 3/4

Fresh Start Mornings This event brings the entrepreneurial community together for educational programs and to support one another with crowdsourced feedback 9:0010:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartUpCherokee.com

6

Archery Come and Try Days If you’ve never picked up a bow and arrow but want to see what all the hype is about, this is your chance! This single-day event will introduce participants to the basics of the sport� Space is limited; $10 per participant, ages 8+ 6:00-7:15pm, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

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

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

6

BACK to the BOOMBOX — Enjoy popular hits from the 80s and 90s� 7:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. MixtapeAtl.com

7

Garland Mountain Day Hike — Enjoy a moderate morning hike (approximately a 4-mile loop) in the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills $10 10:00am, Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails, 1411 Garland Mountain Way, Waleska. 770-9247768. PlayCherokee.org

7

February Is

International Vegan Cuisine Month; National Bake for Family Fun, Bird Feeding, Black History, Cherry, Fasting February, Hot Breakfast, and Library Lovers Month; as well as North American Inclusion and Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

7

Science Saturday: Mad Kitchen

Science — Do fun experiments using common kitchen items You’ll make elephant toothpaste, bubbles, lava lamps, and more; $12 for program participants and $7 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

7 Downtown Canton Chocolate Walk — Explore your favorite downtown shops while sampling chocolate delights shared by local businesses Tickets are $20 per person Check in at Canton Theatre (171 East Main Street, Canton)� 11:00am-5:00pm, downtown Canton. Facebook.com/DowntownCantonGA

Carrollton Jazz Orchestra — This 20-piece jazz band will perform a repertoire that includes all your favorites, such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Mel Lewis, Buddy Rich, Chick Corea, and many other jazz greats� $20� 7:00-9:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. ExploreCantonGa.com

7 Wild West Soiree — Enjoy food, drinks, dancing, and more at this fundraiser that benefits The Children’s Haven You must be 21+ to attend� Tickets are $100 per person or $190 per couple� 7:00-11:00pm, The Mill on Etowah (big tent), 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3274. CherokeeChildrensHaven.org

8 Super Museum Sunday — Explore history, arts, and culture in communities throughout Georgia, as over 100 museums and historic sites across the state open to the public for FREE during this popular event For participating locations, visit GeorgiaHistoryFestival.org/events/ 2026-super-museum-sunday

[continued on page 8]

Cherokee Veterans Community

MilVet Meetup — Meeting on the first Monday of each month, this Cherokee County group builds a local community for military members and veterans� Family is always welcome 6:008:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org

Monthly Meeting — On the first Thursday of each month, past and present military members, spouses, parents, and anyone interested in serving our country gather to support each other 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/ Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org

Scan for Sequoyah Regional Library System Events

13

Stand Up For Seniors Fundraising Luncheon

Get a delicious lunch for $10� All proceeds support local seniors 11:30am-1:00pm, Chapters Living of Canton, 125 Riverstone Terrace, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

13

15

Parents’ Night Out — Kids will make arts and crafts, play in the pool, eat pizza, and watch a movie� The fee is $30 per child 5:15-9:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-8804760. PlayCherokee.org

Community Yoga Classes

14

continued from page 7

University Wind Ensemble Spring Concert — Reinhardt students and community musicians will perform the finest large ensemble and chamber music literature, including world-premiere performances from today’s most innovative and exceptional composers FREE! 3:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com

19-22

Eurydice — In this reimagining of the classic myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Reinhardt University theatre program students focus their studies on all aspects of theatre production: acting, directing, technical design, and literary analysis Tickets are $15 00 7:30pm with an additional 2:30pm matinee on 2/21 and 2/22, Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167.

TheFalany.com

20th Annual Guns & Hoses 5K Run/Walk

When registering, participants will choose the team they want to represent, and a portion of the fee will go to that agency’s charity� The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office’s (Guns) charity is The Frank Reynolds Charities, and the Cherokee County Fire Department’s (Hoses) charity is the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch This event serves as a qualifier for The Atlanta Journal and Constitution Peachtree Road Race� 8:00am, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

On Monday mornings, bring your mat for a FREE yoga class 11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

Car-B-Que at the Flat — On the second Sunday of each month, come out for this cruise-in and car show Classic and modern rides are welcome� 10:00am-2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/CarBQueAtTheFlat

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.

24-3/24

Some Bunny Special Cherokee Recreation & Parks Association is collecting prefilled Easter baskets to be delivered to children in need throughout Cherokee County� Candy must be in the original, sealed package Baskets should have Easter-related items only� Regular hours, The Buzz, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton; Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton; or The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

28

6

20th Annual Cherokee County Farm Bureau 20th Annual Agriculture Expo — This FREE event features tractors and a petting zoo, as well as 20 different vendors and exhibitors who will present demonstrations inside and outside the event 4:00-8:00pm, Trinity Church, 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton. 770-479-1481. dbforward@gfbco.org

6-15

The Foreigner — In this play, socially anxious Charlie Baker arrives at a Georgia lodge and pretends to be a foreigner who doesn’t understand English, so the townspeople openly share secrets, scandals, and a dangerous conspiracy in front of him This production is recommended for ages 12+ Tickets are $19-$22 8:00pm Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30pm Sundays, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CherokeeTheatre.org

7

Sensory Friendly Saturday

Visit the History Center with dimmer lights and a quieter environment Free for History Cherokee members and youth under 18, $5 for adults� 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

West Main Arts Festival — In the connecting point between historic downtown Canton and The Mill on Etowah, fine artists will take over the streets for an afternoon of art, food, music, and family friendly fun 11:00am-6:00pm, 351 West Main Street, Canton. MenagerieOnMain.com

7-8

Etowah Wildlife Expo — Explore diverse exhibits, engage with wildlife experts, and enjoy thrilling demonstrations alongside shopping, food, music, and endless fun� 12:00pm Saturday Expo starts (see the website for specific event times on both days), The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahWildlifeExpo.com

Adults With Aging Parents Seminar

On the third Thursday of each month, participants will learn about the array of senior services and resources available in the local community FREE! 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events

Shamrocks and Shenanigans

Celebration of Education Gala 2026

By Lisa-Marie Haygood

[Academic Life] The 2026 Celebration of Education Gala promises to be the most impactful event Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) has ever hosted! This year’s theme — Shamrocks and Shenanigans — will feature performances by the Irish Comedy Tour, which touts their act as “A Comedy Show and Irish Pub in a food processor ”

PBK Architects will present the gala on Saturday, March 7, at 6:00pm at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center at The Bluffs� Platinum Sponsors include Northside Hospital Cherokee, Credit Union of Georgia, McClure Family Foundation, Annie Deluca, Thrivent, Jason T Dickerson Family Foundation, Technical Resource Solutions, and Chick-fil-A�

The 1885 Grill of Acworth will cater the food for the event, which will feature pub favorites like Reuben sliders and pretzel bites with beer cheese, along with deconstructed shepherd's

pie and bangers and mash Guinness beer will be on tap, and an Irish coffee, tea, and hot chocolate bar (with Irish whiskeys and Bailey’s) will cap off the evening

O’Brien Productions will oversee the decor and added touches for the event, and live Irish Dance performances will be presented by Tori O’Bryant and her competition team from North Georgia Clogging and Dance Co

All proceeds from the event will fund Classroom Impact Grants and Rapid Grants for teachers throughout the Cherokee County School District (CCSD)� These grants continue to drive excellence and innovation in classrooms that serve the public school students of Cherokee County CCEF strives to raise funds and awareness to ensure CCSD teachers and students have the best possible outcomes and educational opportunities right here in our community

To purchase tables or tickets, visit CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation org or email ExecutiveDirector@ccefga org

Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive director of the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org

New Life-Saving Care Arrives at the Scene

By Paige Waters

Every second counts when a life hangs in the balance For patients suffering from catastrophic injuries and severe blood loss, survival often depends on one critical factor: how quickly blood can be replaced Recognizing that urgency, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) has launched a groundbreaking prehospital blood administration program — bringing one of the most advanced emergency medical capabilities in the nation to the people of Cherokee County at the scene of the crisis�

Research strongly supports early blood administration� According to The Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery (2024), each minute of delay in transfusion increases mortality by 11%�

In emergency medicine, time is everything Massive hemorrhage remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in trauma patients, and delays in treatment can quickly turn survivable injuries into tragedies By equipping paramedics with blood products in the field, CCFES is closing the gap between injury and definitive care�

“We often say that seconds count in an emergency,” said Fire Chief Eddie Robinson “This program gives those seconds back to the patient When someone is critically injured, time truly is the difference between life and death, and now our paramedics can deliver next-level care right at the patient’s side�”

Developed in partnership with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, the initiative allows paramedics to administer blood products at the scene, long before a patient ever reaches a trauma center Interventions once confined to hospital walls are now available where they can make the greatest impact — at the location where the injury occurred�

“This initiative allows our crews to treat hemorrhagic shock at the earliest possible moment — before transport, before hospital arrival, and before it’s too late,” said Chad Huff, division director of EMS for CCFES “It’s a true game changer for prehospital medicine ”

The program officially launched on December 15, 2025, using an intercept response model Medical Control officers (Med-Con 1 and 2) now carry packed red blood cells and plasma and respond countywide to incidents where transfusion may be required All CCFES paramedics have completed specialized training to ensure blood products are administered safely and effectively in the field�

Sustaining the program relies on the community’s support LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will host four blood drives annually in Cherokee County, so residents may directly contribute to lifesaving care close to home

“Our focus is simple,” Chief Robinson said� “Give our citizens every possible chance to survive By carrying blood in the field, we’re changing outcomes — and saving lives�”

Paige Waters is a Fire Safety Educator at Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Fire Marshal’s Office, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 678-493-6291. CherokeeCountyFire.org

Quotables

“There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.” -Nelson Mandela

“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.”

-Frederick Douglass

“If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life.” -Marcus Garvey

“In all things that are purely social, we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.”

-Booker T. Washington

“In recognizing the humanity of our fellow beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute.”

-Thurgood Marshall

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear.” -Rosa Parks

“Success isn’t owned; it’s leased; and rent is due every day.” -Michael Jordan

“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” -Muhammad Ali

“You are where you are today because you stand on somebody’s shoulders. And wherever you are heading, you cannot get there by yourself. If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life so that others may stand on your shoulders. It’s the quid pro quo of life. We exist temporarily through what we take, but we live forever through what we give.”

-Vernon Jordan

“The best way to make dreams come true is to wake up.” -Mae C. Jemison

By Jennifer Paire

HARMONY ORTHODONTICS Five Years of Harmony Creating Confident Smiles and Community

For many families, going to the orthodontist becomes intertwined with school schedules, growth milestones, and quiet moments of reassurance in the exam chair.

Finding the right fit matters.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed the care we have received at Harmony Orthodontics,” wrote parent Jessica Buck in one of many five-star reviews. “They have treated our children with care and constantly check in on how they are doing.”

Buck has seen that attentiveness lead to real results.

“My son has seen tremendous spacing growth since having an expander put in,” she shared. “They have also worked well with our dentist and oral surgeon to ensure the best course of action for my daughter.”

“We started in 2020 with no patients — it was just me and Mo, our treatment coordinator, and look at us now,” said founder Dr. Michelle Mathieson, or “Dr. M,” her office moniker. Dr. M has practiced orthodontics since 2012.

“It was a leap of faith. We have grown our team alongside our patient base, and we love serving patients from early childhood through adulthood,” said Dr. M.

TREATING ALL AGES

While many patients begin their orthodontic journey young, Harmony also serves adults who delayed treatment or returned to care later in life.

Adult patient Aric Wegenstein had legitimate concerns about improving his smile.

“Braces insert themselves into your life abruptly,” he wrote in a review. “Difficulty talking, restriction on your diet, worried about food stuck in your brackets.”

As Harmony marks five years in business, stories like Buck’s reflect what has become the practice’s signature: thoughtful, individualized care with lots of heart.

How would he reconcile his unpredictable schedule with adjustments?

“My experience could not have been more positive,” Wegenstein wrote. “The women you meet from your consultation through treatment show nothing but care and constant support. Their priority isn’t cost, it’s your experience. They were incredibly accommodating. At times, you feel like you’re their only patient. They know braces can be difficult, and they make it easier.”

MODERN CARE AND COMFORT

Harmony offers a full range of orthodontic solutions and was the first practice in Cherokee County to introduce Lightforce Clear Braces, featuring customized 3D ceramic brackets.

Lightforce uses an intraoral scanner to create a 3D model of the teeth, then designs and manufactures 3D custom brackets for each tooth. Faster treatment times, fewer office visits, and greater comfort create a better overall experience.

“Orthodontics is always evolving,” Dr. M explained. “I’m always looking for ways to improve results while making treatment easier on patients.”

Dr. M offers multiple approaches to customize patient-centric treatment, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and customized clear aligners.

WARMTH AND FUZZIES

From the moment families walk through Harmony’s door, the atmosphere feels intentional. Patients are greeted by name and often by the practice’s beloved four-legged mascot, Cocoa, a black and tan Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

“He has become very popular with our patients,” said Dr. M, adding that he is great with anxious patients. “People will call ahead to see if he is here. He’s very chill, and some patients will have him in their lap in the chair.”

Harmony just feels like family.

Dr. Michelle Mathieson, DMD, MSD

“Just being in the community and being able to do things is great,” Dr. M said. “I think giving back to the community is really important.”

“When we take braces off, I tell people even though we will see them less frequently for retainer checks, they are part of our family, and we want them to stop by and give us updates,” added Dr. M. “We really try to connect with our patients.”

GIVING BACK

Opening a new practice during the early days of the pandemic came with challenges, especially when community events were limited. But Harmony’s team has consistently engaged in the local community.

Dr. M sponsors nonprofit organizations, including the Service League of Cherokee County and The Children’s Haven. She is married and has two sons, ages 9 and 4, and she and her older son participated in the Service League’s Reindeer Run for the Children on a chilly December morning.

Harmony’s team and patient family donate supplies to MUST Ministries and the Cherokee County Animal Shelter, and the practice is sponsoring the Creekview High School Band’s Marching Grizzlies for the 2025-2026 school year.

Five years in, Harmony is helping Canton families smile — one child, one adult, one patient at a time.

For more information about the practice or to schedule an appointment, please visit the website or call the office.

Returns

Following a successful inaugural year, the Metro Atlanta Film Summit (MAFS) returns for its second annual event on March 13, hosted at the YANMAR EVO//Center

The one-day summit welcomes professionals of all skill sets across the metro region for a dynamic experience centered on meaningful connections and actionable education In addition to networking, attendees will have the opportunity to gain both practical skill development and forward-looking perspectives through workshop-style breakout sessions and inspiring keynote and feature presentations from industry standouts and thought leaders Last year’s topics included camera tools, voiceover, accessibility in film, motion capture, film finance, and more�

The team behind MAFS passionately believes that the diversely talented people who make up the metro region’s film workforce are the heartbeat of Georgia’s film production� Created as a beacon for inspiration, perspective, and connection, MAFS convenes creatives and industry leaders to ignite conversations that empower the metro filmmaking community and help chart a path forward together�

As one of the fastest-growing economies in the nation, Atlanta’s influence extends well beyond the city core Its surrounding counties represent a deep pool of talent, resources, and opportunities for major productions and independent filmmakers alike – making the metro region a compelling, competitive market on a national and global scale�

“MAFS brings together informed leadership from across the industry to foster conversations that keep Georgia’s film sector strong,” said Molly Mercer, director of film at the Cherokee Office of Economic Development� “That strength translates into economic opportunity – not only for filmmakers, but for the many businesses, support services, and communities impacted statewide�”

Driven by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), MAFS evolved from the Cherokee Film Summit The expansion to a metro-wide summit reflects the growing importance of collaboration across communities� More information is available at MetroAtlantaFilmSummit�com�

Georgia Police and Fire Games Coming to Cherokee County

For 42 years, the Georgia Police and Fire Games have provided an opportunity for law enforcement and public safety professionals to come together in camaraderie, proudly represent their departments while they compete in Olympic-style games, and network with fellow public safety employees from across the nation� Cherokee County has committed to hosting the games for 2026 and 2027

The games are open to active and retired law enforcement and public safety, as well as support staff, 9-1-1 dispatchers, and others� Qualification rules are posted at CherokeeCountyGa gov/ GPFG/index�php� Registration is now open�

The games will be held June 8-14� The last day of the games is a rain contingency� Events include Toughest Firefighter, Toughest Cop, bench press, powerlifting, singles and doubles pickleball and tennis, skeet shooting, mountain biking, cycling, pistol match, marksman competition, motorcycle rodeo, and archery� Team events include golf, bass fishing, 3v3 basketball, softball, soccer, and flag football�

Cherokee Elections

Wins National Communicator Award

The Cherokee County Elections & Voter Registration Office has earned national recognition for excellence in voter communication and outreach� The office recently received the Communicator Award from the Partnership for Large Election Jurisdictions, honoring outstanding efforts to provide clear, accessible, and accurate election information The award recognizes the success of the county’s Voter Education and Community Outreach initiatives, led in large part by Community Outreach Specialist Donna Kosicki (pictured), which have strengthened public understanding of voter registration, voting options, and election integrity�

Newly Elected and Reelected Council Members Take Oath of Office

At the first City Council meeting of 2026, newly elected council member Darrell Rice, Ward 1, and reelected members Bryan Roach, Ward 2, and Dwayne Waterman, Ward 3, were sworn in to Council by taking the Oath of Office as presented by Mayor Bill Grant

At the ceremony, Rice, Roach, and Waterman each emphasized the importance of listening to their constituents, being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, and making decisions that keep Canton moving forward� For Council meeting agendas and minutes, visit Canton�Legistar�com/Calendar�aspx�

Cherokee Awarded $7.6 Million for Highway 92 Safety Improvements

As part of the Safe Streets and Roads for All program, Cherokee County submitted an application to the U�S� Department of Transportation for funding assistance last June The county was awarded $7 6 million for the Highway 92 Multimodal Safety Project Cherokee County was one of 521 communities nationwide that secured part of the $982 million in federal funding and one of only five counties in Georgia to secure funding

Specific safety improvement project areas include Highway 92 at Bells Ferry Road, Highway 92 at Kellogg Creek Road, Highway 92 at Trickum Road, Highway 92 at Woodstock Road, Highway 92 at Lovejoy Lane, Highway 92 from Bells Ferry Road to Lovejoy Lane, Highway 92 from Main Street to Trickum Road, Highway 92 from Kellogg Creek Road to Woodstock Road, Highway 92

from Woodstock Road to Wade Green Road NW, and Highway 92 from Kellogg Creek Road to Trickum Road (corridor-wide)

While improvements for each specific project area vary, they include LED lighting installation, emergency vehicle pre-emption equipment, evaluation of median openings to determine if conversion to directional openings is needed, traffic light timing, pedestrian signalization, and improved signage

To view the full safety action plan, visit CherokeeCountyGa gov and click on “Comprehensive Safety Action Plan” on the homepage�

Mark Your Calendars — Canton’s Signature Annual Events Announced

These free-to-attend celebrations highlight Canton’s culture, creativity, and strong sense of community throughout the year Events that don’t currently have specific dates will be announced as they are solidified� Please visit ExploreCantonGa com/events/annual-events for updates

West Main Arts Festival (March 7)

Enjoy a fine arts market featuring local artists, live music throughout the day, and engaging street performances�

Wing & Rock Fest (March 21–22)

The Southeast’s largest wing festival brings together top local wing vendors, live music, and high-energy entertainment for a crowdpleasing event�

First Fridays (May–October) – On the first Friday of each month, downtown Canton comes alive with live music, food trucks, and family friendly fun Main Street closes to traffic, creating a lively block party atmosphere�

River Rock Concert & Festival (Summer)

Held at Etowah River Park, this outdoor music festival features nationally recognized artists across multiple genres

Riverfest (September 26-27)

This popular arts and crafts festival attracts more than 25,000 visitors to Etowah River Park With hundreds of vendors, it’s the perfect place to shop for unique, handmade items while supporting the Service League of Cherokee County with an entry fee donation

Canton Multicultural Festival (Fall)

Enjoy food tastings, music, dance, and performances representing cultures from across the globe

Denim Fest (Fall) – Celebrate Canton’s rich textile history at The Mill on Etowah, once home to one of the world’s largest denim producers The festival features live music, a BBQ cook-off, and family friendly activities�

Christmas in Canton (December)

Historic Downtown Canton transforms into a festive winter wonderland� Enjoy the downtown tree lighting, visits with Santa, holiday parades, and seasonal shopping

Cherokee High School Student Places in Statewide Art Contest

Senior Grace Dai earned second place in the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Art Contest� Her entry, The Fall of the House of Chief Vann, will be displayed at the Georgia State Capitol during the 2026 legislative session Dai has also been selected for the Governor’s Honors Program for Visual Arts and inclusion of her artwork in the Atlanta High School Art Exhibit�

Small Business Advancement Series Offered in Cherokee

The 2026 Small Business Development Center’s Small Business Advancement Series is hosted to help small businesses grow� It consists of a dynamic four-part, in-person program that is delivered quarterly through a series of expert-led workshops� Participants will gain invaluable insights into business growth strategies, management best practices, and industry trends

Sessions include

• February 10 - Digital Marketing Mastery: Strategies That Convert

• May 12 - QuickBooks Made Simple: Financial Tools For Entrepreneurs

• August 11 - Leadership That Works: Skills for Owners & Managers

• November 10 - Financial Fluency: What Every Business Owner Should Know

County

The sessions are free to attend, but registration is required� All programs are from 9:00-11:00am, at Thrive Canton at The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 200, Canton Hosted by the City of Canton and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development through the Small Business Development Center at Kennesaw State University, please scan the QR code to register or for more information�

Echoes of Resilience: Cherokee County’s Black Landmarks

By Bruce Baker

Cherokee County has a rich Black history of its own, and thanks to the efforts of History Cherokee’s Black History Committee and the Georgia Humanities organization, you can visit 20 different locations in Canton and Woodstock where some of its most significant events took place.

The first Blacks in Cherokee County predated its founding in 1838, with most arriving as enslaved laborers The driving tours focus on the post-Emancipation period, when newly freed slaves began to build their own communities, including schools, churches, and businesses The first all-volunteer African American Fire Department in the state of Georgia was in Canton at the site where the Charlie Ferguson Community Center now stands

Segregated schools in Woodstock and Canton are also on the tour� Born in 1890, Magnolia Thomas (pictured left), a Spelman College graduate who later attended the Tuskegee Institute, would teach school for decades at all-Black schools in Woodstock, Canton, Bethel, Orange, Toonigh, and Hickory Flat� Her career has earned her the title

of “the Most Influential Black Woman in the History of Woodstock,” and both the location of her former home and the Enon Cemetery where she is buried are part of the tour�

Black communities were founded — some by emancipated slaves themselves and others by their descendants — in both Woodstock and Canton, with names that still evoke nostalgia in long-time residents, including “The Hill” and “The Hole,” “Stumptown,” “Pea Ridge,” and “Nineteen.” These are stops on the tour, too� Smaller communities existed in Waleska, Ball Ground, and Nelson

Since churches played a major role in these Black communities, several of them are featured on the tour, chiefly with either the Baptist or African Methodist Episcopal denominations It would be the pastor of one of these churches, the Reverend Ralph Freeman of Hickory Log Baptist Church, who would lead the effort by Blacks to end segregation in Cherokee County by forming the Freedom League The League’s members defied segregation practices in local restaurants, stores, and the Canton Theatre� The following year, two young women from the League attended Cherokee High School Despite a harsh reception, they soldiered on, becoming the school’s first African American graduates and paving the way for full integration and the closure of Black schools in 1967

Not every landmark made the tour For example, the Rock Barn was built by banker and farmer Gus Coggins in defiance of the Night Riders, as the Ku Klux Klan (Klan) was sometimes called, after a previous wooden barn mysteriously burned, believed to be an attempt to dissuade him from hiring black laborers� The Klan was active in the area during the early 1900s if you visit the Cherokee History Center, you’ll see a Klan hood discovered in, of all places, the Old Courthouse� The Center’s archives contain copies of the original slave censuses taken in 1850 and 1860, which catalogue every enslaved person in the county and the names of the people who owned them� The 1860 census even lists the number of slave houses on each site where they were lived�

And finally, if you want to see one of the most enduring legacies of Black people in Cherokee County’s history, visit the Hickory Log Cemetery Founded by emancipated slaves in 1872, it is the final resting place of many of the original Black families in Canton: the Byrds, the Keiths, the Lotts, the Gearings, the McMickens, and more You’ll find markers as simple as a field stone, a few hand-carved, but most with nothing to reveal who rests below Others have full headstones Walking through the cemetery, one can almost feel how a quiet and humble people, just freed from bondage, began with almost nothing, and over generations became the proud and vibrant community they are today� It’s on the tour, and perhaps more than any other stop, it captures both the struggles and the successes of African Americans in Cherokee County

Driving tour pamphlets are available at the Cherokee History Center, or if you prefer, simply scan the QR code, which will take you to an interactive website showing locations, descriptions, and old photos of each site.

THE BIG NEED: Affordable Senior Housing

By Stacy Jones

[Lifestyle] One of the most consistent types of calls received at Cherokee County Senior Services is the request for senior housing The need for senior housing is not easily met� Our staff often refers seniors to Colbert Square (located off Hwy 92) and Hearthside (located in the Towne Lake community) Both offer housing specifically for seniors ages 62 and older� Hearthside shared that the current rent for a one-bedroom apartment starts at $1,000 per month, and there is a waitlist of 1 to 2 years

Colbert Square not only houses seniors 62 and older but also provides housing for individuals 18 and older who have mobility impairments� Colbert Square rent is incomebased and currently maintains a waitlist that varies in length

Both residences provide excellent accommodations for seniors, allowing them to have long-term, affordable housing The staff are always friendly and do their best to assist seniors with their needs� Cherokee County’s CATS transportation service frequents these locations, providing rides to both doctor appointments and grocery stores

The issue is that we need more of this type of housing in Cherokee County When you hear that there is a long waitlist for a service, that confirms the need is solid� Over the last

few weeks, the Senior Center has received calls from seniors who urgently need these low-income housing options We always do our best to share resources and keep them current, as they are constantly evolving�

The Senior Center staff also tries to keep up with reasonably priced private rental properties, but the seniors we work with usually fall into one of two financial categories Half of a caseworker’s caseload consists of seniors who receive an average income of around $2,000 per month� The other half receive an income of $1,000 to $1,500 per month

Colbert Square and Hearthside have been ideal referral sources for lower-income seniors� But when the waitlist is long, and seniors are being evicted or living in their cars, a sense of urgency occurs The nonprofit group Stand Up for Seniors accommodates these individuals with hotel stays whenever possible�

The Senior Center staff is always searching for lower-income rental options to sustain seniors in their long-term housing goals� Please call 678-493-4106 if you are aware of any lower-cost private rental options in our community�

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

Teacher Feature

BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

Lindsay Loden

Lindsay Loden has spent her entire educational career in Cherokee County, beginning when she was a student�

The Class of 2000 graduate of Etowah High School, who’s “proud to be a product of the Cherokee County School District,” Loden returned to her home school district after college to start her teaching career

“I’ve wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember — ever since Mrs� Larkin made kindergarten feel like magic,” Loden said� “She sparked my love for learning, and over the years, so many amazing teachers kept that spark alive They made school feel like home, and now I get to do the same for my students�”

Now in her 20th year as an educator, Loden teaches sixthand eighth-grade English language arts at Freedom MS She has taught at Freedom her entire tenure, teaching across grade levels and subjects: Spanish, French, World Cultures, high school credit Spanish, Literature & Composition, Literacy Workshop, Social Studies, Leadership, and STEM

She serves as her school’s representative on CCSD’s newly formed Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council The council was envisioned by the Cherokee County School Board as an opportunity for educators to share valued feedback to support CCSD’s mission to become the highest performing school district in Georgia

Loden said there’s so much to love about her profession�

“What I love most is the heart of it all — getting to know my students, laughing with them, cheering them on, and watching them grow into who they're becoming,” she said� “There’s nothing better than those little moments when something clicks or when a former student stops by just to say ‘hi ’ Being part of their story — and getting to know their families along the way — makes this job feel like so much more than a job,” she said�

Critical to a teacher’s success, Loden said, are relationships — those built with students and their families, and with colleagues�

“I

believe the best learning starts with real connections,” she said “I get to know my students — their quirks, their strengths, what makes them laugh — and build a classroom where they feel safe to be themselves When kids know you care, they show up differently� They try harder, dream bigger, and believe in themselves a little more� That’s where the excellence starts�”

Loden shares the same advice about the importance of relationships with her colleagues�

“When you’re having fun, the kids will, too, and that’s when the magic happens� Always put the kids first — everything else can wait� Take time to build relationships and truly get to know who you're teaching,” she said “If students feel seen and supported, the learning will follow�”

Barbara P. Jacoby is the chief communications officer for

Winter Pruning Tips

By Joshua Fuder

[Home Life] Pruning is a horticultural practice that alters the form and growth of a plant It can be considered preventative maintenance, and many problems may be precluded by pruning correctly — especially during the early years of a tree or shrub

Reasons for Pruning Include:

• Promotion of plant health - Removal of dead or injured branches will allow plants to heal and divert energy to healthy parts of the plant This includes branches that cross or rub�

• Improvement of plant appearance - Pruning at the proper time can encourage flower and fruit development as well as maintain a plant’s desired shape or size�

• Protection of people and property - Dead branches and branches with weak or narrow angles that overhang homes or areas where people are at risk should be removed�

Late winter is the best time of year for most pruning tasks The only exceptions are early spring-blooming plants such as azaleas, crab apples, and dogwoods� Pruning for these types of plants is usually done after they bloom, as flower buds develop on second-year wood

Pruning Tips

• When pruning smaller branches or stems, it is best to cut them back to a side branch or a quarter of an inch above a bud

• Always prune above a bud or branch that faces outside the plant to encourage outward growth

• When removing large branches, it is recommended to use the three-cut method� The first cut is on the underside of the branch, 12-18 inches from the trunk This undercut should be made one-third to one-half of the way through the branch� The second cut is made an inch farther out on the branch It should be made from the top side of the branch all the way through The third cut is then made just outside the branch collar�

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