AsWe Gather, Remember This…
Are you ready to gobble ‘til you wobble, express what you’re grateful for to your loved ones, and maybe snuggle up on an empty sofa for a nice tryptophan-induced nap this Thanksgiving (11/27)? But before we get to that festive, foodfilled celebration, be sure to thank a vet on Veterans Day (11/11) and let them know how much you appreciate their incredible sacrifices for our freedoms.
For more happenings this month, check out our extensive Events Calendar on pages 6-11, which is chock-full of fun holiday options close to home. And if you’re looking to give back this holiday season, see this month’s “Celebrate the Season of Giving” feature on pages 19-21, which is a list of Family Life Magazines’ more than 100 Community Partners — local nonprofits that champion various causes and would surely appreciate your support.
But as we prepare to plunge into this busy time of end-of-year festivities with family, friends, and coworkers in what can often be a pretty diverse collection of ideas, opinions, and perspectives on everything from the best way to cook a turkey to political points of view, we’d be wise to remember these poignant words from engineer, futurist, and inventor Nikola Tesla:
“We are all one. Only egos, beliefs, and fears separate us.”
Cheers to a peaceful holiday season of spending valuable quality time with those closest to you, and we wish you the best Thanksgiving yet! We are so thankful for our readers, advertisers, and the wonderful Canton community.
With sincere gratitude,
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
George Anderson, Sarah Childers, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Susan K. Treadaway
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.
© 2025 All rights reserved
Calendar
NOVEMBER
1-30
Veterans Appreciation Month
4
Reinhardt University Percussion Ensemble — The students in the ensemble will utilize all the percussion equipment available and will amaze the audience with their complex rhythms, stamina, and focus� There will also be performances from the jazz ensemble� FREE! 7:30pm, The Falany Performing Arts Center, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
As a small token of appreciation, veterans and active military members receive FREE admission to the Cherokee County History Center throughout November 10:00am5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
1-30 Turkey Swim Competition
Take part in a fun, friendly competition among fellow lap swimmers to see who can swim the farthest during the month of November� A log is maintained at the lifeguard station� Participation is free with a paid aquatic center admission fee The top three adult swimmers win a prize Regular Aquatic Center hours, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
3-12/15
5
Funding Panel at Fresh Start Mornings Got a business plan but need the funding? Join e’ship and business leaders Spencer Nix, Elliott Franklin, Colin Ake, and Drew Tonsmeire for a funding panel, moderated by Laurie Buckley FREE! 9:00am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartupCherokee. com/programs-events/fresh-start-mornings
7
Brent Vernon and Sam FREE Christian Concert — Enjoy a live performance by this singer, songwriter, and ventriloquist who shares messages of hope and redemption through humor and creative excellence 7:008:30pm, Trinity Church, 504 Trinity Church Road, Canton. 404-202-1945.
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 Parkway, 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
1-12/8
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, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
1-12/13 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
November Is
National Adoption, Epilepsy Awareness, Native American Heritage, Novel Writing, Peanut Butter Lovers, and Pomegranate Month as well as Manatee Awareness Month, Movember, and World Vegan Month�
8
Trivia Night — Thursdays�
Gather your dream team and compete for prizes 7:009:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
Warrior Winter Arts and Crafts Festival
Enjoy games, food, music, and shopping the arts and crafts vendors All proceeds support the Cherokee High School C-Club� 10:00am-4:00pm, Cherokee High School, 930 Marietta Highway, Canton. 404-906-3361. Facebook.com/people/C-Club-WarriorWinter-Fest-2025/61577253837992/
9 University Chorale — Talented Reinhardt student vocalists perform a wide range of choral works that highlight their musical excellence� FREE! 3:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Canton. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
11
University Jazz Ensemble
An unforgettable night of smooth grooves and sizzling sounds as Reinhardt students captivate the stage� Admission is FREE! 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center,7300 Reinhardt Circle, Canton. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
11
Veterans Day Ceremony — The community is invited to come out and salute our veterans� 11:00am, Ball Ground Veterans Memorial, 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. DTBallGround.com
15
The Cherokee Music Teachers Association Meeting — Guests are welcome to attend� 10:00am, R. T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. linda@lokey.net
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
continued on page 8]
FREE Yoga at The Mill
Each Wednesday, enjoy a rejuvenating evening of community yoga 6:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com
continued from page 7
Scan for
Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
15 Inaugural Fan Fest & Duck Plunge
18 Canton City Limits — Whether you’re a spoken-word poet, a comedian, or a musician, this is the place for you Sign-ups go live November 11 Spots are limited FREE 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonGa.gov/our-city/visit-us/canton-theatre
This FREE community celebration will feature games, activities, treats, and entertainment for all ages while supporting the Cherokee Youth Foundation Woodstock
Mayor Michael Caldwell and Canton Mayor Bill Grant will take a “Duck Plunge” into a giant cold pool filled with rubber ducks adopted for $5 each Donations help expand youth soccer programs in Cherokee County, and each duck also serves as a raffle entry for prizes announced during the plunge 11:00am-5:00pm (4:00pm Duck Plunge), Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-981-5523. CherokeeYF.org/fan-fest; VisitWoodstockGA.com/fan-fest
18 Hear, Here! Ann Litrel and Charles Seabrook: Georgia’s Natural Wonders — These co-authors will talk about their newly released book, 35 Natural Wonders of Georgia to See Before You Die, at this FREE event� 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
MilVet Meetup
First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
21 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, Manor Lake Hickory Flat, 7200 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
22 Community Food Drive
“Stuff the Truck” Event
Never Alone Community Food Pantry is requesting nonperishable food item donations to stuff its truck to help feed the community� 10:00am-3:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 470-302-4055. NeverAlone.org
25 Canton Farmers Market Night Market — Kick off Thanksgiving by browsing for fresh produce, cakes, pies, bread, cookies, flowers, party trays, and decorated cookie kits� 4:00-7:00pm, Brown Park, 251 East Marietta Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov; CantonGaFarmersMarket@cantonga. gov; Facebook.com/CantonGAFarmersMarket
BINGO for Charity!
Each Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. 7:30pm Wednesdays/ Fridays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Family Moose Center, 278 Moose Loop Road, Canton. 770-479-8300.
The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty) Second and fourth Thursdays of each month. 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
27
33rd Annual Cherokee Thanksgiving
Each year, more than 2,000 meals are provided to families in need, seniors, emergency service providers, or anyone who just needs a meal in Cherokee and parts of Pickens counties� Meals can be picked up or delivered by volunteers� Williamson Brothers BBQ in Canton hosts the event and prepares the food For more information, to volunteer, or to make a donation, please visit CherokeeThanksgiving.com.
29 Small Business Saturday
Throughout Cherokee County, members of our community own and operate small businesses Take the time this holiday season to support them by shopping small and local Times vary by establishment, Cherokee County.
29 Sensory Friendly Saturday — Designed for visitors with autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivities, museum patrons may explore the galleries with dimmed lighting and quieter audio, and they may also check out a sensory kit from the front desk (or feel free to bring one)� 10:00am-5:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
29-12/21
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
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
19 Downtown Canton Tree
Lighting — Head to downtown Canton for the lighting of this year’s Christmas tree and other holiday festivities! 6:308:30pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Cantonga.gov; Facebook. com/DowntownCantonGA
22
Light Up the Night — Skip the traditional tree lighting and experience the brightening of the entire downtown sky� 6:00-8:00pm, downtown Ball Ground, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123.
DTBallGround.com
23-12/31 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! $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
28
Love Lights a Tree — Come out for the traditional lighting of the tree in honor and memory of those whose lives have been affected by cancer 4:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton. Facebook.com/ LoveLightsATreeCherokee
[continued on page 10]
Women on Wheels Clinic and Ride
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
continued from page 9
29-12/30
Holiday Lights of Woodstock
2
Christmas Market — Get your Christmas shopping done early! Curated vendors will have something for the whole family� Admission is FREE� 5:30-8:30pm, The Hickory Flat Gym, 4835 Hickory Road, Canton. 770-501-8002. PlayCherokee.org
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 12/2412/25� 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
29-30
Christmas at The Mill
Enjoy a magical weekend of ice skating under twinkling lights, 100+ vendor booths, visits with Santa, and football on the big screen 10:00am-7:00pm event and 11:00am-9:00pm ice skating, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. EtowahMill.com
ONGOING
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women Build — Third Tuesday of each month. 6:30-7:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/women-build
3
Where Are They Now? Flashback Panel — Follow up on some past Fresh Start Mornings business presenters to learn how their businesses have grown and help them brainstorm on new challenges 9:00-10:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartupCherokee.com/fresh-start-mornings
4-7
Christmas at Reinhardt — 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 by enjoying a complimentary wagon ride through downtown Canton, 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
5
March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots — Enjoy floats, 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 downtown sidewalks 7:00-9:00pm, downtown Ball Ground, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. MarchOfTheToysParade. com; DTBallGround.com
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
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 10:00am-3:30pm Saturday. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
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
6-7 Holiday Market
Get all your shopping done at this festive community event 11:00am-6:00pm, 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
Swim With the Grinch
Help decorate the in-water holiday tree, play pool games, get a picture with the Grinch, and make some arts and crafts� The fee is $10-$15 per person� 9:00-10:15am or 10:45am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
6
Breakfast With Santa — Veterans and their families 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
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� 3:30pmsunset 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
Giving Thanks to the Everyday Heroes Among Us
By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway
During this season of gratitude, let’s take a moment to honor the local heroes who serve our community every day�
These everyday heroes are all around us, patrolling our neighborhoods, walking the halls of our schools, responding to crises over the phone, running fearlessly into burning buildings, and saving lives through emergency medical procedures�
They are our first responders and true heroes.
A life in public safety comes with real sacrifices: missed holidays with loved ones, long and unpredictable shifts, sleepless nights, and the emotional toll of witnessing tragedy, all while giving up precious time with their own families Despite it all, our heroes show up each day with courage, compassion, and commitment
In the past year alone, Cherokee 911 dispatchers have handled:
• 165,294 law enforcement calls
• 33,315 fire and EMS emergencies
The calls are then routed to the appropriate agencies, where trained professionals respond based on the nature of the emergency� Law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs are dispatched to handle violent crimes, medical emergencies, traffic incidents, and other urgent situations�
At the District Attorney’s Office, we work closely with public safety professionals throughout the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases� As firsthand witnesses, they provide vital insights that help build strong cases and, for this reason, they are often
2025 Stats
• In the first nine months of 2025, the District Attorney’s Office opened 1,077 felony cases and closed 1,125, for a closure rate of 104%
• Prosecution teams presented 40 trials, including 37 jury trials and 3 bench trials�
• The juvenile court team opened 454 cases and closed 425
Note: Data shown in this column covers the period from January 1 through September 23, 2025.
called upon to testify during trials Without the evidence and testimony first responders provide, prosecutors cannot effectively represent victims and the State of Georgia in the courtroom
This holiday season, take a moment to express gratitude to the everyday heroes around you A simple smile or a heartfelt “thank you for your service” can mean more than you know� And let’s remember that the peace and safety we enjoy are protected by those who are willing to serve, which comes at their great personal cost
To all Cherokee County first responders: we see you, we value you, and we are deeply grateful for your unwavering dedication
Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/District-Attorneys-Office
By Jennifer Paire
Seeing Veins in a New Light
We hear a lot about heart health, blood pressure, and keeping our arteries clear. But veins — the vessels quietly carrying blood back to the heart — rarely get the spotlight.
Board-certified surgeon Dr. Louis Prevosti, nationally recognized for devoting more than 30 years to cardiothoracic surgery and outpatient vein treatment, diagnoses and treats vein disorders with the same precision he brought to heart surgery.
“People tend to lump everything together as blood vessels,” he explained. “But veins and arteries are quite different in composition, function, and the disorders that affect them. Here’s what surprises most people,” he continued. “Your heart only pumps blood in one direction: through your arteries away from the heart. Once that blood reaches your legs, it relies on muscle movement and tiny one-way valves inside your veins to get back up to your heart. When those valves don’t work properly, gravity pulls blood back down your leg, and blood struggles to get back to the heart.”
For many, that struggle shows up as swelling in the ankles, aching or heaviness in the legs, or other symptoms such as night cramps, restless leg, bulging veins, spider veins, or skin changes.
“Venous insufficiency isn’t life-threatening,” he said. “But it can really impact how you feel every day. It’s a quality-of-life issue.”
Understanding Veins
Dr. Prevosti has spent more than 30 years treating the body’s circulatory system. He performed more than 5,000 open-heart operations and 1,000 thoracic operations at Piedmont Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital before developing one of the largest vein clinics in America. He has performed more than 20,000 vein procedures and trained many vein care professionals.
Prevosti Vein Center opened in Canton over the summer and focuses on diagnosing and treating venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and related disorders using modern, minimally invasive techniques. The center also diagnoses and manages blood clots (DVT) as well as lymphedema, which is another cause of leg swelling.
Dr. Prevosti said it’s estimated that 40 million patients have venous insufficiency in the U.S., and 40% of women over 40 have venous insufficiency. Women are two to three times more likely to have it because female hormones and pregnancy can weaken vein valves. When those valves weaken, blood can pool in the lower legs. Over time, that backward flow causes pressure, pain, chronic inflammation, and sometimes visible changes in the skin.
“For veins, it’s not about cholesterol or diet,” Dr. Prevosti notes, although healthy, active lifestyles are still paramount. “Venous disease is mainly caused by genetics and gravity. Family history is the main risk factor, second is female gender, third is jobs where you’re sitting or standing relatively stationary, and fourth is age. The longer we’re on our feet, the longer we live, the more strain those valves experience.”
Evaluation at Prevosti Vein Center begins with a detailed venous ultrasound to map how blood is flowing through the legs. Today’s technology allows abnormal veins to be treated with minimally invasive techniques under local anesthesia.
“These procedures are outpatient. Patients walk out of the office and drive themselves home. Improvement in some cases can be felt within days,” said Dr. Prevosti.
More Than Vanity
While venous insufficiency is not life-threatening like heart disease can be, Dr. Prevosti’s message is straightforward: vein health deserves attention to keep you active and have the best quality of life.
“When you notice ankle swelling, skin itching, redness and discoloration, or that your legs feel heavy and achy — that’s your body asking for help,” Dr. Prevosti emphasized. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Prevosti Vein Center or visit the website.
“What sets Dr. Prevosti apart is not just his decades of experience in this field, but the personality of the man,” shared Jane K., a longtime patient. “He is a ‘detail’ guy. He understands and takes the time to help his patients understand what is going on with the veins in their bodies. I would recommend him with his knowledge and caring manner to anyone who needs help with swelling legs, tired legs, varicose veins, or just ugly veins. These procedures have greatly improved the quality of my life. I’m grateful to Dr. Prevosti for that gift.”
147 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 10 Canton, Georgia 30114
470-567-9047
PrevostiVein.com
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony Schedule
Cherokee HS - May 22 @8:00pm
Creekview HS - May 21 @4:00pm
Etowah HS - May 21 @8:00pm
i-Grad Virtual Academy - May 21 @2:00pm
River Ridge HS - May 22 @4:00pm
SAT Scores Increase, Top Nation and State
Cherokee County School District’s SAT scores for the Class of 2025 increased and continue to top national and statewide results� The CCSD Class of 2025 earned an average total score of 1085 on the curriculum-based college entrance and placement exam, according to results released by the College Board� The 2025 score is an increase from 1083 in 2024 The SAT is the most recognized measure of achievement for high school students� It includes two 800-point sections: evidence-based reading/writing and mathematics, with a possible total score of 1600; a third section, a writing exam, is optional�
Sequoyah HS - May 23 @9:00am
Woodstock HS - May 23 @1:00pm
For more information, visit CherokeeK12�net�
Jeep Raffle Supports CCSD High School Athletics, Bands, JROTCs
It’s now easier than ever to support CCSD high school athletic teams, bands, and JROTCs while buying chances to win a Jeep Wrangler! By visiting ShottenkirkChrysler com/jeep-raffle or scanning the QR code below, you can purchase one or multiple $5 tickets online and choose the school and program your donation will benefit The raffle winner will be selected in a live drawing on March 21, 2026, at Creekview HS Tickets must be purchased by March 13, 2026�
Cherokee County Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Approved
The FY2026 budget was unanimously approved by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and will provide funding for critical county services without adding new personnel or vehicles for the next year It was developed with no increase in the maintenance and operations millage rate or the fire district rate� The October 7 meeting, during which the budget was approved, was the first for new District 1 Commissioner Will Cagle, who was sworn in earlier that day�
Homeowners with the homestead exemption will not see an increase in their property tax bills for taxes levied by the Board of Commissioners�
Cherokee County’s budget year runs from October 1 to September 30
The $438�6 million budget accounts for 2�1% inflation and assumes other revenue growth, such as permit fees, remains flat It includes both operating funds and capital funds� Operations are funded by property taxes and fees, while capital projects are funded through Special Purpose Location Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds and impact fees�
Construction To Begin on Two New Cherokee County Parks
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a $6 5 million contract for the construction of Woodworth Park in southwest Cherokee County and the Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails near Ball Ground The approval includes a county-controlled contingency of $330,000� The two projects were bid together to help save taxpayer dollars Funding for both projects comes from SPLOST 2018, county tree funds, and impact fees�
The first phase of the 53-acre Woodworth Park, located near the intersection of Highway 92 and Old Alabama Road/Hunt Road, includes a playground, restrooms, flex lawn, trails, parking lots, and entrances for both the public and maintenance Phase one is expected to be completed by fall 2026�
Cherokee Recreation and Parks leadership expects future phases of construction to begin before 2030, which will include a 50,000-square-foot recreation center and senior center, multipurpose athletic fields (baseball, softball, lacrosse, and soccer),
For operations, increased healthcare costs are partly funded by an increase in employee contributions� The operations budget includes 3% cost-of-living adjustments for employees and funding for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office competitive pay program to help recruit and retain qualified deputies�
For capital, the budget includes funding from SPLOST 2012, SPLOST 2018, and SPLOST 2024, totaling $101 million for facilities — including the 94 North Street rehabilitation project, fire stations, the Justice Center expansion, as well as transportation projects�
a splash pad, additional parking, and more nature trails — including a proposed canopy walk through the trees A new RFP will be issued closer to that timeframe, and construction timing depends on the collection of the 2024 SPLOST
In September, the Board also approved the $390,000 purchase of a 1�19-acre parcel on Hunt Road for the future construction of the recreation center and senior center
Woodworth Park is part of the Southwest Cherokee Parks and Trails Plan that was approved in 2021 Its trail network is also included in the Cherokee County Greenways and Trails Master Plan that was approved earlier this year
The Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails, located on Yellow Creek Road at the Etowah River, is a passive park designed to promote outdoor activity through hiking, equestrian, and mountain biking trails� It will also include equestrian primitive campsites and a canoe and kayak launch�
Phase one of the Yellow Creek project will focus on the trailheads and separate parking lots for the mountain bike and equestrian trail users, the park entrance, restroom building, and maintenance building Future plans connect the conservation area to the recently opened Long Swamp Recreation Area by way of the Etowah River Water Trail
The Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails is part of the Northeast Cherokee County Parks Plan approved in May 2022 Its trail network is also included in the 2025 Greenways and Trails Master Plan�
Community
Canton Creek Bridge Project Commences
A new pedestrian bridge project has begun in the Sunnyside area of downtown Canton Spanning over Canton Creek, the bridge will provide safer accessibility for the community to and from downtown
The City of Canton was awarded a $2 2M grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget in FY2024� This grant was aimed at using state-generated American Rescue Plan Act funds to improve local neighborhoods that were disproportionately impacted during the pandemic� To improve outcomes in Sunnyside, the City opted to apply funds for pedestrian improvements, as this area has a highly mobile pedestrian population�
Of the several projects planned in this corridor, the first is pedestrian improvements such as a new pedestrian bridge over Canton Creek, as well as sidewalk improvements� This project will also expedite safe travel for pedestrians, as the City completes designs for a new vehicular bridge over Canton Creek to replace the existing narrow and aging bridge (pictured)�
The new Canton Creek Bridge will be prefabricated of weathering steel and
span 160+ feet over the creek, providing pedestrian-only access, unlike the existing bridge that also serves vehicular traffic� During construction of the bridge, the existing roadway and bridge will remain open
In anticipation of this project, in early 2024, Canton’s Downtown Development Authority purchased the two properties impacted by the project at 103 Marietta Road (formerly Gabby’s Wireless and David’s Insurance Services) and 251 Marietta Road (formerly Canton Village) to facilitate access for construction of the bridge and future road improvements
“The new pedestrian bridge is a beacon of other great things to come for Sunnyside, including improved transportation projects, a new mixed-use development, and additional green space and recreational enhancements� Reimaging this primary entrance into our city will ensure a good first impression for firsttime visitors and a better quality of life for all,” said Mayor Bill Grant�
South Canton Park Contract Approved
Construction on the new 7-acre South Canton Park and dog park, located on Marietta Highway across from Cherokee County Fire Station 11, will begin soon Funded entirely by Impact Fees, SPLOST dollars, and a $2�2 million state grant, the world class amenities will include:
• Separate Parks for Both Large and Small Dogs
• Tree Canopy Walk
• Amphitheater and Chill Lawn
• Accessible Playgrounds
• Boardwalk
• Food Truck and Mobile Dog
Grooming Stalls
• Rain Garden
• Sky Swings
• Accessible Trails
• A New 1 5 Million Gallon Water Tank
CELEBRATE THE Season of Giving
By Julie Senger
For over a decade, Family Life Magazines has been honored to partner with more than 100 community charities to help raise awareness about their important causes and inspire our readers to get involved and help others by making financial or material contributions or volunteering
their time and talents�
Below is a list of our active community partners
During this holiday season of giving (or any time of year!), we hope you will consider helping one or more of the following organizations in any way you can Each one is a certified 501c3 nonprofit, so donations are tax-deductible�
Addiction Recovery Causes
• Hopedealers Worldwide - 770-224-6825, HopeDealersWorldwide com
• No Longer Bound - 770-886-7873, NoLongerBound�com
Animal Causes
• All About Cats Rescue & Adoption 678-235-8585, AllAboutCatsRescue�org
• Angels Among Us 877-404-5874, AngelsRescue org
• Cherokee County Animal Shelter 770-345-7270, CherokeeGa-Animals�org
• Green Pets America Facebook com/gpacharity
• Rock for Rescues RockForRescues�com
• Save the Horses 470-380-3120, SaveTheHorses org
• Wildlife Action 770-924-7464, WildlifeActionGeorgia�org
Arts/Education Causes
• Cherokee County Historical Society/ History Cherokee 770-345-3288, HistoryCherokee�org
• Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282, CherokeeTheatre org
• Cherokee County Educational Foundation 770-704-4213 CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation org
• Distinguished Young Women of GA 229-366-0869
DistinguishedYW�org/ find-your-program/georgia
• Ferst Foundation 706-343-0177, FerstReaders�org
• Matiak Foundation MatiakFoundation com
• Women in Technology 470-264-1780, MyWit�org
• Woodstock Arts 678-494-4251, WoodstockArts�org
Children’s
Causes
• 500 Songs for Kids 404-541-9231, SongsForKids�org
• Anna Crawford Children’s Center 678-504-6388, AnnaCrawfordCAC org
• Bend Your Knees/Collins 5K 404-271-1360, BendYourKnees�org
• Cherokee Youth Works (a Cherokee FOCUS program) 770-345-5483, CherokeeFocus�org
• The Children’s Haven/CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) 770-345-3274, CherokeeChildrensHaven org
• CURE Childhood Cancer 770-986-0035, CureChildhoodCancer�org
• Easterseals of North GA 404-943-1070
EasterSealsNorthGeorgia org
• Experiences Foundation 678-386-4513
ExperiencesFoundation com
• Give a Kid a Chance 770-345-2737, GiveAKidAChance�org
• Goshen Valley 770-345-9535, GoshenValley org
• Ian’s Friends Foundation 404-966-0752
IansFriendsFoundation�com
• Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club 770-720-7712, BGCMA org/club/mimms
• North Georgia Angel House 770-479-9555, AngelHouseGa�com
• Skye Precious Kids 404-478-9794, SkyePreciousKids org
• St. Baldrick’s 888-899-2253, StBaldricks�org/atlanta
• TEARS Foundation 678-427-1597
TheTearsFoundation�org/Georgia
• Walk for Ferrial 470-572-3297, WalkForFerrial org
Domestic Violence/ Sex Crime Awareness and Recovery Causes
• Ahimsa House 404-496-4038, AhimsaHouse org
• Cherokee Family Violence Center 770-479-1804, CFVC�org
• Saprea (formerly The Younique Foundation) 801-901-2474, Saprea org
• She Is Safe 770-552-1400, SheIsSafe�org
Faith-Based Causes
• Art of Living Ministries 770-479-6961, ArtOfLivingMinistries�com
• Bethany Christian Services 770-455-7111, Bethany org/Atlanta
• FCA Cherokee (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) 770-789-7150, CherokeeFCA�org
• Hide and Seek Ministries Day Camp 770-720-0005, HideAndSeekDayCamp net
• HopeQuest Ministry Group 678-391-5950, HopeQuestGroup�org
• The Joy House 706-253-7569, TheJoyHouse org
• Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227, NextStepMinistries�net
• SEEDS/ The Hope Center 770-924-7990, SupportHopeCenter com
• Vision Warriors/War On Addiction 833-894-4357, WarOn�org
• Young Life 470-377-1235
CherokeeCounty YoungLife org
Food Insecurity/Homelessness Causes
• Butterfly Whisper, Inc. - 470-557-4553, Facebook com/groups/butterflywhisper/
• Meals On Wheels - 770-345-5320, CherokeeGa�com/Senior-Services/meals-on-wheels
• MUST Ministries - 770-479-5397, MustMinistries�org/canton
• Never Alone - 770-363-5272, NeverAlone org
• Project Live Love - 404-664-8095, ProjectLiveLove com
Illness-Specific Awareness and Health/Wellness Causes
• Bethesda Community Clinic 678-880-9654, BCCCherokee.com
• Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011, CVIGa.org
• Every Link Matters 770-355-2611, EveryLinkMatters.org
• GA Highlands Medical Services 678-807-1050, GHMS-Inc.org
• GA Ovarian Cancer Alliance 404-255-1337, GaOvarianCancer.org
• GA Transplant Foundation 770-457-3796, GaTransplant.org
• North Georgia Pregnancy Center 706-253-6303, BabyOnTheWay.org
• PAMAH Foundation 678-926-9507, PAMAHFoundation.org
• Perfect Harmony Health/ The George Center Foundation 678-965-0993, PerfectHarmonyHealth.com
• Team Maggie’s Dream 678-977-5755, TeamMaggiesDream.org
• TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation 770-360-9271, MyTurningPoint.org
Special Needs Causes
• Blake’s House of Independence 470-629-3833 BlakesHouseOfIndependence.com
• Empower Cherokee 770-345-5821, EmpowerCherokee.org
• Kathy B. Davis Foundation 615-533-0668, KBDFoundation.net
• Special Needs Respite SpecialNeedsRespite.org
Veteran Causes
• Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program 678-983-7590, CherokeeHomelessVets.com
• Operation Not Forgotten 678-494-2680, OperationNotForgotten.com
• Cherokee Veterans Community 678-494-2680
CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org
• Witness to War 770-481-3018, WitnessToWar.org
Miscellaneous Community Causes
• Cherokee County 911 Foundation 404-395-3454, CherokeeGa-911.org/cc911foundation (supports, advocates for, and advances Cherokee County E 9-1-1)
• Cherokee County Senior Services 770-479-7438, CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services (seniors)
• Cherokee Fire Foundation CherokeeFireFoundation.org
(Assists CCFES employees and other local fire departments in the event of a major medical emergency or life-altering diagnosis for themselves or their immediate family members)
• Community Now, Inc. 678-951-4975, Facebook.com/p/Community-Now-Inc-61555352709013/ (community outreach, food pantries, and youth activity sponsorships)
• Kate’s Club 404-347-7619, KatesClub.org (grief counseling)
• A Second Later 770-331-4834, ASecondLater.com (distracted driving awareness)
• Southern Magnolia Charities SouthernMagnoliaCharities.org (fundraises for various charities)
• United Way of Greater Atlanta 404-527-7200, UnitedWayAtlanta.org
Book Review
BY SARAH CHILDERS
This November, join Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) as we savor the last full month of fall and prepare for Winter Literacy at the library with cozy events and titles for all ages� From fall crafts to seasonal cookbooks, your local public library has everything you need to make this autumn season your best yet�
Begin your month with Fall Painting for Adults at Ball Ground Public Library on November 6 at 6:00pm� Then, relax with Yoga at the Library on November 8 at 11:00am at Woodstock Public Library Kids can explore their imagination with R�T� Jones Memorial Library’s Winter Wonderland LEGO Lab on November 14 at 4:00pm Visit our Rose Creek Public Library on November 17 at 4:00pm to make DIY Butter Candles for your holiday dinner table� Finally, enjoy Baby Lap-Sit Storytime at Hickory Flat Public Library on November 21 at 10:30am Visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary�org to see the full calendar of events and register for select programs
Are you looking for new recipes this holiday season? Check out Dolly Parton and her sister Rachel Parton George’s cookbook Good Lookin’ Cookin’ from the library� Pull up a chair and stay a while, as Dolly and Rachel share fun family recipes and stories that capture the warmth of southern cooking
Learn how to make the Partons’ country ham and biscuits, barbecue spareribs, mac and cheese, and more� In addition to Parton family recipes, learn tips about hosting events all year long� Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and more, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ is sure to have a recipe for everyone at the table� To read this title and find others like it, explore the collection of physical, digital, and eAudiobooks available at no cost at your local library or on the website�
Whether you’re looking for your next read or your next hobby, SRLS has all the tools to help you succeed� Library cards are always free for those who live in Cherokee, Pickens, and Gilmer counties Join us this December and January for Winter Literacy at the library� Win prizes while completing fun reading and activity challenges on the Beanstack app Keep an eye on the SRLS’s social media (@SequoyahRegionalLibrary) and website for more details coming soon� We hope to see you soon at the library!
Sarah Childers is the marketing manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. ChildersS@seqlib.org. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
Three Important Truths You Need to Know
By Pastor George Anderson
[InGood Faith] I’ve never heard anyone say, “I wish my dad were still alive, so I could tell him he’s irrelevant!” Usually, they say something such as, “I miss my dad’s wisdom�” Funny how truth never changes
So, here’s a truth that has never changed: Jesus is the only way to heaven� Let me give you three more important truths you need to know:
• God is righteous and requires us to be righteous
• We are NOT righteous
• What God requires of us, he has provided for us� He did this through his son, Jesus Christ
You see, Jesus was God, and he became man As a man, he lived a perfectly righteous life — the life you and I have not lived� Then, he voluntarily laid down his life as payment for our sins Three days later, he rose from the dead His resurrection is the ultimate proof that his sacrifice was entirely sufficient to save us�
He did everything for us — except one thing: he did not choose for us� We must choose to
accept Christ as our savior� The Bible says, “But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name,” (John 1:12)� In this context, the word “receive” means “to welcome ” To receive Christ means to welcome him into your life as you would a friend into your home�
Have you done that with Christ? If not, why not do that right now? Honestly, what is stopping you? You could do it this way:
Bow your head and say, “Jesus, I know I am a sinner I cannot make myself right with you I believe you died for my sins, and you rose to save me� I open my heart to you right now� Thank you for hearing this prayer, and thank you for answering it ”
Romans 10:13 says, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved ” You probably know someone who would love to hear the news� Why not give them a call?
Dr. George Anderson is pastor of Rising Hills Church, 3693 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. GoRHC.org
Although mixed media collage artist Megan Reeves Williamson’s collages include traditional mixed materials, at the heart of her works are the spines, end sheets, and pages of vintage books Reeves Williamson discovered her love of working with books in 2016 when her cousin, also an artist, invited her to create 15 pieces focused on a single theme�
“I’ve always liked collage I love books; I love reading,” she said� “I love that books could have changed hands so many times There is a lot of good energy in used books — their history, their patina, and I like to add my own energy and give them new life ”
In addition to elements of books, Reeves Williamson uses fabric, colored pencils, production tape, picture frames, and she occasionally stitches thread into the canvas To find books, she visits a public library where, for fifty cents per book, she acquires tomes that no one else wants Back in her studio, she scans the
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Megan Reeves Williamson Breathes New Life Into Vintage Books
books for whatever pops It might be a bookmark or someone’s doodles�
“If it’s the cover, I’ll cut it and put it aside. I save everything. It’s organized chaos,” she said.
Reeves Williamson’s collages not only have depth of color, contrast, and composition, but also allow viewers to imagine the books’ journeys, the shelves where they once lived, and the people who once held them and read them�
With a degree in drawing and painting from UGA, Reeves Williamson began teaching at the elementary level, discovering another passion that she continues to pursue by leading classes at local art centers� Her challenge was to remain creative even after full days of teaching
“When I started teaching, I would go into my studio at night and do anything — maybe just scribbling or tearing paper and collaging it — anything to get that creativity out I realized that ideas can evolve from the making —
then the ideas come out,” she said
Today, she lets her intuition complement her love of composition As she works, she grabs whatever seems to be fitting, which might be a strip of tape or two pages whose colors or shapes contrast�
“I definitely focus on composition,” she said “But I experiment� I’ll try a bunch of layers on one side and leave the other side blank
Her juxtapositions create energy but also calm, and they invite the viewer to imagine the unknown life of each book
“Life is contrast� There’s an interesting energy between contrasts The neutral colors of the books contrasted with hot pink creates energy� Or a vintage photo contrasted with geometric shapes Anything that is opposites — I’m interested in� It’s like looking into yourself, finding things you didn’t know were in you,” she said�
To view more of Reeves Williamson’s work, visit @Juxtaposed_art_studio on Instagram or Facebook.com/juxtaposed art studio.
