Welcome to 2026!
New Year and congrats to all our 2026 Best of Life winners! Check out pages 20-22 to see if your favorite businesses won in their categories — or to discover a possible new favorite.
Most of us will spend the next few weeks (or months) getting used to writing and typing 2026 instead of 2025 on all our documents. For those who are old enough to remember, this error used to happen most often when writing checks for monthly bill payments that we had to drop in a mailbox to send through “snail mail.” Thank goodness for technology that now allows us to do this task at the touch of a button.
In addition to remembering to write the correct year, many of us will also be making New Year’s resolutions. A few years ago, my New Year’s resolution was to “never make another New Year’s resolution,” not because I don’t believe in trying to better myself but because I wanted to push myself to start making changes as soon as I recognized the need instead of waiting for a specific date on the calendar. I’ve found that putting things off creates more anxiety and allows for more time to make excuses not to begin at all.
I think most people procrastinate making changes because it requires us to get uncomfortable. In her book entitled Man, the Unknown, Alexis Carrel clarifies this when she says, “Man cannot remake himself without suffering, for he is both the marble and the sculptor.”
What if you knew that after 10 failures, you would finally reach your goal? How fast would you try to experience each of those failures? So, embrace not waiting to step outside your comfort zone this year. That’s where all the growth happens. Cheers!
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
Cherokee Office of Economic Development, Sarah Childers, Gary Lamb, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas
Family Life Magazines
6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
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
Local Developments Bring Opportunity and Energy to Cherokee County
By Cherokee Office of Economic Development
[Strategic Life] As we welcome the new year, Cherokee County is buzzing with optimism Major projects are set to transform how we live, work, and gather� These developments are signs of a thriving local economy and a bright year ahead for families and businesses alike
Mixed-Use Revitalization in Canton
Canton’s leadership is reimagining one of the city’s key gateways The North Street Redevelopment Project includes a boutique hotel, a four-story office building and courthouse expansion, ground-floor retail, upper-level residential units, and a multi-level parking deck planned for up to 800 spaces
This development will make downtown Canton more accessible and more vibrant Additional parking means easier access to local businesses, while new residential and commercial spaces promise to attract entrepreneurs, professionals, and families looking for a dynamic downtown lifestyle Visit CantonGa�gov for the latest developments�
Community Hub at Holly Springs Town Center
The Holly Springs Town Center is shaping up to be the city’s new heartbeat — a walkable destination for dining, shopping, entertainment, and events Plans feature a main street lined with shops and eateries, residential living options, office space, and a central green for outdoor concerts, food truck festivals, and family nights It’s not just a shopping destination — it’s a place designed for togetherness�
The city broke ground on the new amphitheater in September and the new Holly Springs City Hall in November Visit HollySpringsTownCenter�com to learn more�
What This Growth Means for Families
These projects all point to one powerful trend: Cherokee County is becoming a hub for balanced, community-centered growth� Citizens and visitors can experience more vibrant downtown evenings, more jobs, a potential boost in property values, and increased tax dollars to help support schools, parks, and community amenities For local shops and restaurants, these projects promise a steady flow of visitors eager to explore downtown Canton and Holly Springs�
For residents, it means more local convenience: live, work, and play in the same place; fewer long drives for amenities; and an even richer experience in these downtown areas What’s especially meaningful for families: a local place to gather, entertain kids, attend weekend events, dine out, and enjoy an integrated, walkable environment�
Looking Ahead
Cherokee County’s future looks bright� These projects represent more than new buildings — they’re investments in people, families, and the kind of community we all want to live in� So, as we step into 2026, take a stroll downtown, visit a local business, or attend a community event The progress happening around us isn’t just about development — it’s also about connection�
Cherokee Office of Economic Development, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org
The
City of Canton pocket park rendering
JANUARY
1-20 Rink on the River Ice Skating — Bundle up, lace up, and glide on real ice at this unforgettable winter experience! Tickets are $1214 Please check the website for times, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 404-710-3808. EtowahMill.com
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Women Rock! Day — This day honors women who’ve worked hard to create opportunities for themselves and future generations of females in this predominantly male industry� Celebrate by creating a set list of your favorite female rockers and supporting new female artists by streaming their songs and attending their shows�
5 & 2/6
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
6-2/10
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 (sugarfree 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
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Wreaths Across America Wreath Removal and Cleanup — Volunteers will remove wreaths that were placed in December Please meet at the Public Information Center for instructions A leaf rake and gloves are recommended� 9:00am, Georgia National Cemetery, 101 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton. 770-479-9300. GaNationalCemetery.org
ONGOING
Framed in Time: Cherokee County in 50 Images
Through February, 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, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.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
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
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January Is — Celebration of Life, Dry January, Get a Balanced Life, Get Organized, Ginuary, Manuary, and Veganuary Month; International Brain Teaser and Creativity Month; and National Be Kind to Food Servers, Clean Up Your Computer, Hobby, Hot Tea, Human Trafficking Prevention, Oatmeal, and Soup Month
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 $12 for program participants, $7 for accompanying adults 10:30am12:00pm and 1:00-2:30pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
16 Stand Up For Seniors Fundraising Luncheon — Get a delicious lunch for $10� All proceeds support local seniors� 11:30am-1:00pm, Merrill Gardens, 12730 Highway 92, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
19 MLK Day Unity Breakfast Celebrate the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King, Jr and his dream for a more just and equitable nation� This FREE event brings diverse members of the community together to build relationships, promote a shared sense of purpose and understanding, and inspire future generations� 8:00am breakfast and 9:00am program, Cherokee County Conference Center at the Bluffs, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 470-863-5272. TWelch@cfergusoncc.org
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women Build
23
Good Times / Bad Times: The Led Zeppelin Experience — Composed of seasoned musicians and die-hard Led Zeppelin fans, GoodTimes / BadTimes is dedicated to recreating the iconic sound and energy of the legendary band� Tickets are $61$83 8:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 678-701-6114. CantonGa.gov
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
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Don’t Be Cruel: The Elvis Experience Enjoy all the hits that made Elvis Presley a true icon Tickets are $55-$75� 7:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 678-701-6114. CantonGa.gov
[continued on page 8]
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
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
MilVet Meetup — The first Monday each month, this Cherokee County group builds community for military members and veterans� 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
Scan for Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
27 Hear, Here! Lecture
Learn about the land lotteries in Cherokee County with Jennifer Dunn� FREE! 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
29 Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Workshop
Brandy Morrison will teach about available tax incentives for historic preservation FREE! 6:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
continued from page 7
31 Volunteer Park Clean Up and Maintenance — Volunteer to help clean and maintain Cherokee County’s beloved parks� Many tools will be provided, so please register for this event so organizers can plan accordingly� 9:00am-12:00pm, location TBD. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
31
31
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
Service League Gala and Benefit — This black-tie optional, community-wide event raises money for children in need in Cherokee County and honors a community member with the annual Heritage of Hope Award Tickets are $150 per person 6:00pm, Timbers on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. ServiceLeague.net
ONGOING
Cherokee Veterans Community 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 6:308:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
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.
Trivia Night — Each Thursday night, gather your dream team and compete for prizes 7:009:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
FEBRUARY
4
Fresh Start Mornings — This FREE event is open to the public and brings the entrepreneurial community together for educational programs and to support one another with crowd-sourced feedback� Sessions provide educational discussions led by industry professionals, or they feature a local startup that is seeking feedback 9:00-10:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartUpCherokee.com
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 The fee is $10 per person 10:00am, Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails, 1411 Garland Mountain Way, Waleska. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
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Science Saturday: Mad Kitchen
Science — Do fun experiments using common kitchen items� You’ll make elephant toothpaste, bubbles, lava lamps, and more The event fee is $12 for program participants, $7 for accompanying adults� 10:30am12:00pm and 1:00-2:30pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
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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.
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
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� 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events
Book Review
BY SARAH CHILDERS
The Travel ling ChroniclesCat
Create new habits and memories this year at your dynamic destination for discovery — the Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS)! Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, read more books, or find new hobbies, the library can help you on your journey� Have fun attending events and learning new skills all year long with SRLS
This month, explore programs for all ages at your local SRLS library� Practice your craft of choice at the Rose Creek Public Library on January 6 at 1:00pm with the Adult Crafters Club� Teens can wear their best wizarding robe on January 9 at 7:00pm at the Woodstock Public Library’s Night at Hogwarts event Those looking to read more in 2026 can start with the R T Jones Memorial Library’s Adult Eclectic Book Club at 6:00pm on January 12� Participate in a coloring night for adults on January 15 at 6:00pm at the Ball Ground Public Library Lastly, make new friends at the Hickory Flat Public Library’s Friend Speed Dating event on January 30 at 4:00pm Visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary org to see the full calendar of events and register for select programs�
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a road trip through the Japanese countryside with your
faithful cat companion, SRLS has the book for you� The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa tells the story of a man named Satoru and his cat, Nana, who journey through Japan in Satoru’s silver van Exploring new places and returning to old ones, The Travelling Cat Chronicles gives voice to both cat lovers and the cats themselves
Follow along as Satoru and Nana travel with no other purpose than to meet old friends, or so Nana is led to believe Translated by Philip Gabrial, The Travelling Cat Chronicles has charmed readers around the globe with its descriptive prose and compelling narrative To read this title and find others like it, explore SRLS’s collection of physical, digital, and eAudiobooks, which are available at no cost at your local library or at SequoyahRegionalLibrary org
Whether you’re looking for your next read or your next hobby this year, Sequoyah Regional Library System has all the tools to help you succeed Library cards are always free for those who live in Cherokee, Pickens, and Gilmer counties�
Sarah Childers is the marketing manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. ChildersS@seqlib.org. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
Quotables
“To gain your own voice, you have to forget about having it heard.” -Allen Ginsberg
“You can tell a lot about a person by what they choose to see in you.” -unknown
“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.” -George R. R. Martin
“Simplicity isn’t a lack of ambition — it’s the freedom to prioritize what truly matters. It deserves just as much space on your vision board as any grand achievement.” -Vex King
“The most dangerous form of blindness is believing that your perspective is the only reality.” -Friedrich Nietzsche
“If the reading revolution represented the greatest transfer of knowledge to ordinary men and women in history, the screen revolution represents the greatest theft of knowledge from ordinary people in history.”
-James Marriott
“Don’t look for luxury in watches, villas, or sailboats. True luxury is being loved, respected, having your parents alive, and playing with your grandchildren. It’s what money can’t buy.”
-Clint Eastwood
Stand and Be Delivered
By Pastor Gary Lamb
Where does the time go? Seriously, how is it already 2026? I love a new year The psychology behind a fresh start is one of my favorite things I have loved reading everyone’s New Year’s resolutions, and it is awesome to see the expectancy that people have going into a new year�
Like most people, I started thinking about New Year’s resolutions and things I wanted to change about a month ago I had a list:
• Health
• Spiritual growth
• Business goals
Then I read this verse, and all that changed:
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand,” (Ephesians 6:13)�
Put on the armor of God, so you are able to stand your ground Then, God repeats it to close out the verse by saying that after you have done everything, just stand� As I go into 2026, that one verse changed my perspective
My goal this year is to simply stand� We live in a world that bends on everything, especially those of us who call ourselves Christ followers We bend our morals We bend the truth We bend our commitments Yet, the Bible says when you’ve done everything you can do — stand!
When you are tired, you stand When you are ready to quit, you stand When you don’t know what else to do, you stand When everyone else runs, you stand� When everyone else is taking the easy way out, you stand� In a world full of people bending a knee, my challenge to you in 2026 is to simply stand, because sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is stand
Gary Lamb is the pastor at Action Church, 345 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground (inside Rock Solid Brewing). 770-345-3030. ActionChurch.tv
By Jennifer Paire
Creates Beautiful Views
Whether they’re helping a homeowner see the world more clearly through beautiful new windows or supporting local charities, Window World of Atlanta makes life better — one view, one home, one act of service at a time
Considered the largest replacement window and exterior remodeling company in the United States, Window World’s organization has sold more than 1 million vinyl replacement windows annually since 2009 Top-rated Window World of Atlanta, one of three locations owned by Michael and Melissa Edwards and operated by their son, President Stefan Stowe, consistently receives five-star reviews�
patio, and garage doors; siding; gutters; and roofing SolarZone glass packages for windows and entry doors by Therma-Tru are also available�
“Great experience from the sales rep to the end result!” wrote Jason on Google “We actually called back to get additional windows after the first installation� Our previous windows had grids, and the new ones do not Words cannot express how much it has increased the view!”
In addition to its full-service vinyl replacement window business, Window World offers entry,
An Energy Star partner, Window World’s American-made products are quality assured by Good Housekeeping� The company is known for its transferable lifetime installation warranty, and Window World of Atlanta’s owners offer a lifetime labor remodeling warranty in addition to Window World’s corporate offerings
“I don’t think I’ve ever used the words ‘delightful’ and ‘salesperson’ in the same sentence - until now!” wrote Karen Mowrey on Google “We met with (sales consultant) Keith Moseley and had a great experience� He was knowledgeable, listened really well, and offered options� Thanks to him, we came up with a solution for a new door that we didn’t realize existed I highly recommend Window World� We talked with other companies, and Window World was our choice — we are so pleased!”
(L-R) Stefan Stowe, Heather Vallese, and Jacob Appleby
Photo by Jack Tuszynski 2025-2026
On a Mission
While Window World’s corporate operation has been recognized consistently in Qualified Remodeler Magazine’s Top 500 annual rankings for revenue — a prestigious bellwether in the remodeling industry — Window World of Atlanta was 41st out of 500 companies in 2024�
“There are thousands of businesses that apply for that award,” explained General Manager Larry Beard, an 11-year company veteran and long-time family friend of the Edwards “For our ownership group to be 41st, that is excellent ”
The company’s business is built on referrals and repeat customers — byproducts of top-notch service, a family-style culture, and legendary community involvement� Last June, Window World of Atlanta was celebrated for participating in Flip It Forward, a mission-driven home renovation sponsored by the Purpose Driven Real Estate Group, which is a specialty team of real estate agents helping people buy and sell homes in the Atlanta area
The company donated $40,000 in windows, exterior doors, soffits, and fascia to keep renovation costs low, allowing the real estate group to flip a home and donate proceeds to Atlanta Angels, a nonprofit that supports foster care families�
Beard credits owner Melissa Edwards and her commitment to excellence in the community with bolstering Window World’s contributions to organizations of all sizes� The company has raised $9 7 million for St Jude
Children’s Research Hospital, participating as a National Series Sponsor and team for the St� Jude Walk/Run�
As partners with Veterans Airlift Command, Window World has raised over $2�5 million and completed more than 115 flight missions using the corporate jet to transport wounded warriors and their families for medical support and other compassionate services�
“During Christmastime, we do food drives, we support the local food bank, and we go to animal shelters,” Beard shared� “Our employees do that during work hours� We create different opportunities, so they are able to volunteer for what is important to them ”
Beard said encouraging staff to “connect with heart” produces “a level of buy-in for employees, creating a stronger work environment ”
“It’s a joy to come here and work,” said Beard, who manages 25 sales and installation teams along with about 100 internal employees across Window World of Atlanta’s three locations�
“This is a family-run business, and everyone is like family because of the relationships we build internally� There’s so much buy-in for the product we sell I know I am bought into what we sell — I actually have it in my home,” said Beard�
For more information or to schedule a free estimate, please give Window World of Atlanta a call or visit their website
President Stefan Stowe
Photo by Jack Tuszynski
Sign Up for Cherokee County Emergency Notifications
Cherokee County has partnered with Motorola Rave to deliver National Weather Service alerts to registered users Sign up at CherokeeGa-EMA org by clicking the Rave button, or text CHEROKEEEMA to 226787 for text alerts Alerts include weather, traffic, and evacuation notices� Users of the county’s previous notification system must create a new Rave account
Keep Cherokee Beautiful Awards and Updates
District 3 Commissioner Benny Carter helped resurrect Keep Cherokee Beautiful several years ago, with a goal of a thriving community-led, county-supported nonprofit� It is now operated by a local board of directors and is supported by the Cherokee County Recycling Center for items such as trash bags, vests, trash pickers, and trash pickup for Adopt-A-Mile events�
Keep Cherokee Beautiful now has 61 miles adopted by 43 unique AdoptA-Mile partners� In 2025, 15,140 pounds of litter were removed from county roads, and the organization had 44,400 volunteer hours
Each year, the KCB Board presents two awards, one for the Adopt-A-Mile Partner of the Year and one to an individual volunteer� The 2025 AdoptA-Mile Partner of the Year is Universal Alloy, and the 2025 Volunteer of the Year is Megan Topper
(L-R) Chamber Volunteer of the Quarter, David Wright, Family Life Magazines, receives his award from 2025 Chamber Board Chair Neil Blackman.
Chamber Names Volunteer of the Quarter
The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce honored Family Life Magazines’ David Wright as the Chairman’s Council
Volunteer of the Quarter for fourth quarter 2025
The Chairman’s Council is a group of key community volunteers who offer their time to help cultivate successful relationships with business owners across Cherokee County Members are accepted by invitation only from the Chamber’s Board Chair In determining the Volunteer of the Quarter, attendance at Chamber events is evaluated for all members of the Chairman’s Council�
“We appreciate all the time and effort that David has given to the Chamber this year,” said 2025 Chamber Board Chair Neil Blackman�
For information on the Chamber and its programs, visit CherokeeChamber�com�
Dinkins Named Cherokee County CFO
Cherokee County’s financial team named Chuck Dinkins, former finance director for the city of Valdosta, as its new chief financial officer (CFO) He succeeds recently retired CFO Jimmy Marquis�
Dinkins is a certified public accountant, certified fraud examiner, and chartered global management accountant� He completed required accounting education for the CPA at Valdosta State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Emory University He also completed a Master of Arts in History from Valdosta State University� He worked for the City of Valdosta for the last 24 years� Dinkins served as the finance director since 2015
The CFO is responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and managing the county’s overall budget as well as working with agency and department directors and making recommendations to the county manager and Board of Commissioners�
Love Where You Live Honors 2025 Giveback Recipient
Love Where You Live is a local tourism and community multimedia initiative that highlights residents who share why they choose to live in Cherokee County and what they like about it� Its mission is also to spread positivity and kindness�
“This initiative focuses on what makes Cherokee County great, and that is the people who call Cherokee County home,” said Communications Director Erika Neldner� “Every participant for Love Where You Live 2025 was nominated by someone in our very own community ”
The initiative includes a community giveback component that benefits at least one local nonprofit each year Funds are raised through T-shirt, polo, sweatshirt, hat, and drink tumbler sales through a partnership with local business Deadline Apparel� Merchandise sales dictate how much a donation will be and how many nonprofits can benefit No general fund (property tax) dollars are used to fund the initiative�
From the nomination applications received, a volunteer committee selected the Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County to receive the $1,941 that was raised for the 2025 Community Giveback Award�
“We are beyond thrilled to receive this award and acknowledgement for the work we are doing in the community� The Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County is committed to helping individuals and families who are facing housing insecurity,” said Dr Marianne Butler, executive director of the organization For more information about Homeless Coalition, visit HomelessCoalitionCherokee�org�
Nominations are being accepted for the 2026 Love Where You Live resident features and the 2026 Community Giveback� Merchandise items are also available for purchase� Learn more at LWYL�CherokeeCountyGa�gov�
City
of Canton Honors Councilor Sandy McGrew
Upon her decision to step down after serving three terms, City of Canton honored Ward 1 Councilor
Sandy McGrew last month
While on City Council, McGrew led initiatives on the alcohol ordinance, charter revisions, noise ordinance, unified development code update, and ethics ordinance She attended annual training from the Georgia Municipal Association, took interest in sustainability efforts, and led the charge to update the City’s plant palette
McGrew has long supported downtown redevelopment efforts, improvements in traffic design in the SR 140 corridor, and working with youth� She, along with former Councilor JoEllen Wilson, led an initiative (pre-Covid) to put a new book in the hands of every elementary school student in Canton to foster literacy She has annually supported the Shop with a Cop program with the Canton Police Department and served the community through the Cherokee Arts Center Board of Directors� The City of Canton is grateful for her 12 years of service
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Update on the New Cherokee HS Campus
A committee, made up of current students, parents, teachers, and community members, recommended naming the new Cherokee HS football field for the late Tommy Baker, beloved Cherokee HS student for whom the existing field at Cherokee HS has been named since 1958; naming the stadium, Warrior Stadium; and naming the gymnasium, baseball/softball complex, and practice field for noted alumnus and generous philanthropist Ken White, class of 1959
Construction of the new replacement campus, funded by the voter-approved Education SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax), is within budget and on schedule to open in August� The new school will house all current students, with room for additional enrollment growth�
2025-26 REACH Georgia Scholars Celebrated
REACH Georgia is a statewide mentorship and college scholarship program for middle and high school students Five eighth-graders were selected for this year’s class: Giselle Altamirano Martinez, Creekland MS; Alberto Ernesto, Dean Rusk MS; Akira Hargraves, E�T� Booth MS; Teagan Banks, Freedom MS; and Luke Clark, Mill Creek MS
As part of Georgia’s Complete College initiative, REACH seeks to identify rising eighth-grade students who display academic promise and provide them with the academic, social, and financial support they will need to graduate from high school and attend and complete college�
REACH Scholars who complete program requirements receive as much as $10,000 in scholarship dollars at a HOPE eligible Georgia university or technical college� The program requires participating students to meet specific expectations for academic achievement, attendance, behavior, and participation in academic coaching and mentorship meetings�
Sequoyah HS Student Selected for 2026 All-State Theatre Program
Senior Bailey St� Vrain is participating in this school year’s prestigious program, which culminates with performances at the 2026 Georgia Thespian Conference attended by high school theatre students and educators statewide
Through a competitive application process, St� Vrain was chosen to serve as a member of the production crew, working backstage for the event’s opening and closing productions Between now and the February conference in Columbus, she and other members of the cast and crew will prepare for their roles and participate in rehearsals�
Bailey St. Vrain
Front row (L-R) Clark, Banks, and Altamirano Martinez; back row (L-R) Ernesto and Hargraves
Best Medical Practitioner
Family Medicine
Internal Medicine
Medical Associates of North Georgia
770-704-9499
MedAssoc com
Congratulations 2026 AWARD WINNERS
All winners will receive an award certificate and a copy of the award logo to share on their social media platforms and company websites. Additionally, the contact information for each winning business will be promoted as a Best of Life winner at FamilyLifeMagazines.com.
Best Obstetrics and Gynecology
Roswell OB/GYN in Canton 770-751-3600
RoswellObGyn org
Best Pediatrics
Children’s at Cherokee
404-785-5437
Best Wellness Center/Spa
Hartley Health & Wellness Center
678-880-6698
HartleyHealthAndWellness org
Best Chiropractic
CHOA�org/locations/childrens-at-cherokee
Best Medical Specialist
(optometry, orthopedics, plastic surgery, podiatry, etc.)
Happy Eyes Optometry in Canton 770-874-2020
HappyEyes2020 com
Best Pediatric Dentistry
Canton Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, PC
770-720-0079
KidsHappyTeeth�com
Best Dentistry
Dentistry at Hickory Flat
770-213-8166
HickoryFlatDentist com
Best Orthodontics
Smile Doctors Orthodontics in Canton
770-592-5554
SmileDoctors com/locations/canton-waleska
DT Chiropractic
770-580-0123 | DTChiropractic com
Best Legal Practice/Attorney
Flint, Connolly, & Walker, LLP
770-720-4411 | FCWLawFirm com
Best Real Estate
Ashley Donnelly – Atlanta Communities 770-240-2005
AtlCommunities com/agents/ 244671/Ashley+Donnelly
Best Mortgage Broker
Mortgage Right – Darin Hunter 404-863-2121
HunterTeam�MortgageRight�com/darin-hunter
Best Financial Planner
Iron Oaks Wealth Advisors in Woodstock 404-995-8670
AmeripriseAdvisors com/ team/iron-oaks-wealth-advisors
Best Moving Company
Page Relocation
770-224-8184 | PageRelocation com
Best Insurance Agency/Agent
USA Health Plans
770-615-8501 | USA-HealthPlans com
Best Networking Group/Event
Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce – Schmoozapalooza 770-345-0400 | CherokeeChamber com
Best Travel Agency/Agent
Marvelous Mouse Travels – Katie Taylor 770-366-5620
MarvelousMouseTravels com/team-member/katiet
Best Auto Care
Alpha & Omega Automotive in Woodstock 678-483-5995
Alpha-Omega-Auto com/ Woodstock-auto-service-center�html
Best Car Wash
Mr. Clean Car Wash in Canton
470-310-3454
Best Tutoring
Huntington Learning Center in Woodstock 678-445-1515 | HuntingtonHelps�com
Best Sporting Instruction
(gymnastics, martial arts, soccer, etc.)
CSA Impact Soccer 770-704-0187 | GaImpact com
Best Performing Arts Instruction (dance, music, theatre)
Hickory Flat Dance Academy 770-704-7091 | HickoryFlatDance com
Best Fine Arts Instruction (art classes)
Menagerie On Main
404-798-4279 | MenagerieOnMain com
Best End of Life Care
MrCleanCarWash com/canton-riverstone-parkway
Best Pet Care
(doggy daycare, pet supply stores, vets)
Cherokee Animal Hospital 770-479-6505
CherokeeAnimalHospital�com
Best Day Care/Preschool
Big Blue Marble Academy in Canton 770-637-9339
BBMAcademy�com/location/canton
Best Summer Camp Club SciKidz
678-294-9504
Atlanta ClubSciKidz com
Best Senior Care/Senior Living
The Arbor at BridgeMill 770-629-8737
ArborCompany com/locations/ georgia/canton-bridgemill
Darby Funeral Home 770-479-2193 | DarbyFuneralHome com
Best Dessert
(bakery, donut shop, ice cream) Ray's Donuts 770-213-3456 Facebook�com/Raysdonutscanton/?_rdr
Best Fitness/Health Club
Onelife Fitness in Holly Springs 678-752-1400
OneLifeFitness�com/gyms/ atlanta-holly-springs
Best Casual Dining
Ball Ground Burger Bus 678-454-2422 Facebook com/BGBurgerBus
Best Fine Dining
Goin’ Coastal 770-479-3737 | GoinCoastalSeafood com
Best Jewelers
Canton Jewelry 770-720-1965 | CantonJewelry com
Best Boutique/Gift Shop
Cotton Mill Exchange
770-992-9294 | CottonMillExchange net
Best Hair Salon/Barber Shop
Practically Perfect Day Spa
770-704-5614 | PracticallyPerfectDaySpa com
Best Nail Salon
Lush Nail Bar
770-213-7093
LushNailBarCanton�com
Best Live Entertainment/Event
Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University
770-720-9167
TheFalany com
Best Special Event Planning/Services
Armetrice Photography
678-313-2830
Armetrice com
Best Interior Design
Chamberhouse Fine Gifts
770-479-9115
Chamberhouse�net
Best Furniture/Home Decor
Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents
770-345-3090
GiftShopCanton com
Best Cleaning Services
SCRUBS Soft Wash
470-680-6464
ScrubsSoftWash com
Best Pest Control
TAC Mosquito & Pest Solutions
678-897-8163 | Facebook com/TACMosqPest
Best Landscaping Design Lawn Care
GrassRoots Tree & Turf Care
833-664-7277
GrassRootsTurf�com/weed-control-canton-ga-lawn-care
Best Painting
Three Brothers Painting, Inc.
770-928-3667
ThreeBrothersPainting com
Best Flooring
Military Specs Epoxy Garage Floors 678-249-8112 | MilFloors com
Best Roofing/Siding/Windows Window World
678-905-7564 | WindowWorldAtlanta com
Best Plumber
Plumb ‘N’ Plumber
678-725-0042 | PlumbNPlumber com
Best Electrician
ServiceWise Electric & Plumbing 404-282-5708
ServiceWiseElectricAndPlumbing�com
Best Builder/Remodeling
Woodall Construction Co. Inc 404-314-1000 | WoodallConstructionCompany�com
Best Handyman
Mr. Handyman of Canton and Woodstock 404-369-0294
MrHandyman�com/canton-woodstock
Best Heating and Air Services
Green Heating & Cooling
770-341-3261
GreenHeatingAndCooling com
Congratulations to Kim Sellers, a valued Family Life reader, who was selected from thousands of entries in this year’s Best of Life voter drawing to receive a $50 gift card.
Artist Anna Noel
Fired by Determination, Energy, and a Creative Spirit
Not only is multimedia artist Anna Noel blessed with a passion to create, but she is also blessed with endless energy, enthusiasm, determination, and confidence� With her mother as her inspiration, she learned to never give up — even when challenged She unabashedly says, “It takes a lot of guts to be an artist�”
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Noel describes her art as “storytelling through various mediums” and says it often relates to what’s happening in today’s cultural world� This storytelling allows her to free her ideas and unleash her creative energy� She begins by journaling and sketching, putting in words and images the ideas and stories that she will transform into art�
Noel’s eclectic creations are usually threedimensional and multifaceted Her art includes paintings, large-scale sculpture installations, and photographs combined with text and graphics Recently, she has experimented with large-scale painting that allows her to move about when she works
Her mediums include hand-felted fiber, metal, paint, wood, wool, and found objects “The materials are determined by my interest or by the idea behind the work and how to best portray that The material could be anything that allows each piece to emerge,” she says Noel is drawn to the play of warm and cool colors — especially pinks and blues and
the textures they evoke To achieve “the push and pull” between warm and cool colors, Noel often projects colored lighting on a work� Using flood lights and filters, she bathes pieces in various hues, adding depth and texture to their palettes� “The colored lights help viewers disconnect from reality� They give a cinematic feel, like stage lighting They ask people to stop and think,” she explained
Her rich textures in three-dimensional pieces similarly invite viewers to contemplate the push and pull of differences — of smooth and rough�
Although she allows her works to evolve as best suits them, Noel sometimes begins her art with a specific idea in mind� “My hope and goal and dream for my work is to have people observe themselves through my art,” she said
Just as she enjoys the push and pull of colors and texture, Noel willingly engages with viewers who aren’t drawn to her art “By the time I finish a piece, I’m secure in it, and people who don’t like something make me think� I enjoy having conversations about my work because it makes me think,” she said�
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