Woodstock 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 Woodstock 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 Cabine

Acabine@Armetrice.com

SALES/MARKETING MANAGER

David Wright

David@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bruce Baker, Norman Colby, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Barbara P. Jacoby, Stacy Jones, 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. Woodstock 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�

Calendar

FEBRUARY

1-10 Project Valentine

Cherokee Recreation & Parks will be collecting 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

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�

ONGOING

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� 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton, 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org

1-28

Illumination: The Contours of Light

Explore the relationship between darkness and light, shadows and silhouette, and contemplate how light reveals the world around us while shaping our perception of it� FREE! 8:00am7:00pm Sunday-Wednesday and 8:00am-8:00pm Thursday-Saturday, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

4

Fresh Start Mornings — This program features entrepreneurship-geared educational discussions and presentations from startups seeking crowd-sourced feedback on challenges they face as new business owners 9:0010:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartUpCherokee.com

4

Can’t Drive 55 — This exciting tribute to the music of “Red Rocker” Sammy Hagar includes hits from his solo, Montrose, and Van Halen music catalogues� 7:30pm, Madlife Stage & Studios, 8722 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-384-2363. MadlifeStageAndStudios.com

Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women

Build — Third Tuesday of each month. 6:307:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/women-build

Community Yoga Classes — Mondays. 10:0011:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org

Marine Corps League Detachment 1311 Meeting — Third Saturday of each month. 9:30am, Rally Point Grille, 9770 Main Street, Woodstock. 561-213-5699. Harry123130@gmail.com

MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org

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

6-22 Much Ado About Nothing

Adapted from Shakespeare, this tale is the original blueprint of the romcom, set in a post-WWII era Tickets are $21-$25� 2:30pm and 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

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. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org

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

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

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� 7:0011:00pm, The Mill on Etowah (big tent), 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3274. CherokeeChildrensHaven.org

7

Mardi Gras Pub Crawl

Let the good times roll! Celebrate Mardi Gras in downtown Woodstock with a festive, fun-filled pub crawl� Visit the website for a list of participating restaurants and their un-bead-able Mardi Gras specials 2:006:00pm, downtown Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com

7-14

Valentine BINGO

Participants have a chance to win numerous amazing deals and prizes while shopping at their favorite locally owned stores in downtown Woodstock Five stamps in a row – diagonal, vertical, or horizontal – earns you an entry into a drawing for Downtown Dollars� Times vary by participating establishment, downtown Woodstock. 770-924-0406.

VisitWoodstockGA.com

8

Super Museum Sunday — Explore history, arts, and culture in communities throughout Georgia, as over 100 museums and historic sites 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]

American Legion Post 316 South Cherokee County Meeting — Third Thursday of each month. 7:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 706-726-2754. ALPost316Ga.org

YPOW (Young Professionals of Woodstock) AM — Thursdays. 7:30-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.GlueUp.com/org/inwdstk

Scan for Sequoyah Regional Library System Events

8 & 3/8

Artist Meetup

Amateurs and professionals alike are invited to bring a sketchbook, grab a coffee, and hear talks of artist opportunities FREE! 2:00pm, Reeves House Visual Arts Center Studio, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

12

Small Town Creatives

Attend this FREE monthly gathering for creatives and entrepreneurs who want to network and grow 6:00-8:00pm, The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. SmallTownCreatives.net

12

The Lasting Laugh — Get your live comedy fix with host Jessica It’s All Good and a new set of comics each month! Comics prepare a good, clean set, appropriate for attendees ages 12+� Tickets $10-$14 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

continued from page 7

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. VACCherokeeGa.org

13

Parents’ Night Out — Kids will make arts and crafts, play in the pool, eat pizza, and watch a movie� $30 per child� 5:159:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760.

PlayCherokee.org

14

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

ONGOING

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group — Second Thursday of each month. 11:00am-1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.

Adults With Aging Parents Seminar — Third Thursday of each month. FREE! 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events

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.

17

28

GAMESTOCK! — Try new, awesome games: board games, strategy games, card games, party games���GAMES! Tickets are $10 per person� 11:00am-11:00pm, William G. Long Senior Center (activity center expansion 2), 23 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

School Break Fun Day — Enjoy spike ball, cornhole, disc golf, trick shots, hula hoops, and making crafts on the big stage There will also be inflatables and rides, and the music will be cranking! FREE! 11:00am-3:00pm, Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 103 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

19

WIT! – The Woodstock Arts Improv Troupe will have the audience rolling down the aisle with laughter! $10$14 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

20

City of Woodstock Arbor Day Celebration — A variety of FREE tree seedlings will be available for attendees to pick up and plant in honor of Georgia’s Arbor Day 8:00am-5:00pm, Woodstock City Hall, Woodstock Visitors Center, and William G. Long Senior Center, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com

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 Easterrelated 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 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

MARCH

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

6-5/2

Pulp — Explore the art and ancient practice of paper making� Using clumps of wet plant fibers and pulp, artists craft surreal shapes and inconceivable paper beauties FREE! 8:00am7:00pm Sunday-Wednesday, 8:00am-8:00pm Thursday-Saturday; Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org

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

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

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

Photo by Chey Photography

Providing Hope in the Fight Against Ovarian Cancer

Kimberly Airhart was a busy mom of five children in the fall of 2019� Though she noticed slight changes to her body, she dismissed them as being caused by the stubborn weight she’d gained while being pregnant with her fifth child

“After months of beginning to look like I was pregnant from bloating, constipation, and some pain in my abdomen, I began to worry that something else was going on� The inside of my abdomen just felt tender, and I couldn’t make sense of it� I have gotten ovarian cysts all my adult life, so naturally that is what I attributed the pain to,” said Kimberly

She had never learned about the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, so it never crossed her mind But in February 2020, at age 41, Kimberly was diagnosed with stage 3c ovarian cancer� After six rounds of chemotherapy and a complete abdominal debulking surgery and HIPEC procedure, Kimberly was blessed to have no evidence of disease (NED) in August of 2020

“In 2021, I felt the Lord prompting me to do something with my journey, so I decided to take a leap of faith and follow Him Harts of Teal, Inc , was born with the help of another survivor and an amazing community of supporters near and far� I could never have foreseen what God had planned for me, and I’m in awe of what He has done through Harts of Teal,” Kimberly said

In 2024, Kimberly completed chemotherapy for her first recurrence She is currently doing well and is being treated with Lynparza and Avastin immunotherapy for maintenance�

Knowledge Is Power

Ovarian cancer is the no�1 deadly disease of the reproductive system It is currently the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women� The risk of developing ovarian cancer is 1 in 78, and approximately 22,000 U S women will be diagnosed with the disease this year� Unfortunately, 80% of cases are diagnosed at late stages 3 and 4 There is currently no diagnostic test to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages, so knowing your genetic history can help you understand your risks, as well as help tailor the medicine you receive if diagnosed�

Also, ovarian cancer is considered a chronic disease, and many women will endure multiple lines of treatment� Harts of Teal’s goal is to educate as many women as possible about the signs and symptoms, so they can seek treatment early and advocate for themselves�

“My prayer and mission are to help women of all ages know what to look for and encourage them to go to the doctor if things don’t seem right — to raise awareness so we can save lives,” said Kimberly�

Harts of Teal’s Mission: Supporting Teal Sisters

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” -John 14:1

Harts of Teal exists to support women diagnosed with ovarian cancer through:

• Immediate support

• Blessing bags with comfort items for chemotherapy

• Personal follow-up and encouragement

• Prayer and emotional support

• Ongoing community

• Monthly support group meetings

• Virtual encouragement calls reaching rural communities

• Social media connection to reduce isolation

• Advocacy efforts

• Partnership with Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance

• Capitol Hill advocacy for increased research funding

• Community education and awareness campaigns

“We have built a community that feels like family, and when you are going through a diagnosis like this, the help and comfort this group can provide helps tremendously,” Kimberly said

Your Support Makes a Difference

When you support Harts of Teal’s cause, you’re helping to provide:

• Blessing bags to newly diagnosed women

Take Action

If you’re experiencing symptoms: Don’t wait� Ask your doctor about ovarian cancer screening options

If you want to help support: Wear teal, share Harts of Teal’s message, and consider donating to support newly diagnosed women

If you’re newly diagnosed: You’re not alone� The community of Teal Sisters is here to support you through every step of your journey�

The teal cancer ribbon represents hope, awareness, and the unbreakable bond between women fighting ovarian cancer It isn’t just a symbol: it’s a call to action. Together, we can ensure no woman faces ovarian cancer alone

• Meals, cards of encouragement, care packages, and flowers

• Funding to support group meetings and virtual calls

• Awareness that saves lives through early detection

Save the date!

Harts of Teal: Enduring Hope Color Run June 6, 8:30am One Church

2130 Red Wine Road

Fayetteville, GA 30215

Possible Signs of Ovarian Cancer

The teal cancer ribbon serves as a reminder to listen to your body� Common symptoms include:

• Persistent bloating that doesn’t come and go

• Feeling full quickly when eating

• Changes in urinary frequency or urgency

• Pelvic or abdominal pain and tenderness

• Changes in bowel habits

• Unexplained fatigue

If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, ask your doctor about a CA-125 blood test and a transvaginal ultrasound�

Community

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.

Visit Woodstock GA Announces 2026 Event Dates

• Downtown Crawl Series – Themed afternoon events focused on promoting visits to local food establishments, each featuring delicious food and drink specials� Dates for 2026 are February 7, Mardi Gras; March 14, Shamrock; May 2, Dos de Mayo; October 3, Oktoberfest; December 5, Cozy Crawl�

• Sip + Shop Series – Festive evenings with specials and treats offered by retailers The Spring Sip + Shop is March 26, and the Holiday Sip + Shop is November 19�

• Farm. Fresh. Market – Returns for its 13th season beginning April 18, and runs every Saturday morning from 8:30am-12:00pm until December 19�

• Georgia Craft Brewers Festival This ticketed event returns to Woodstock on April 11

• Family Fun Night Series Returns on the third Thursday of each month, May through August

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

• Discover Woodstock Scavenger Hunt Will run from June 12-July 12

• Summer Scratch Off – This shopping event returns with its lottery of fun on August 1-31�

• Taste of Woodstock – Returns on September 10 on the Woodstock Arts Event Green and Market Street, bringing restaurants from throughout the city into one space to highlight their cuisines in small bites

• Scarecrow Invasion – Returns October 1-31, with registration for scarecrow designs beginning on September 1�

• Ghouls Night Out – Returns October 30, for downtown trick-or-treating

• Walking Tour Series – These engaging, informational small-group tours are scheduled for the last Thursday of each month, April-October

For up-to-date Visit Woodstock GA annual event information, please log on to VisitWoodstockGa� com/annual-events

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�

City of Woodstock Officials Sworn In

Judge Robert Tidwell administered the oath of office to the mayor and City Council Members Warren Johnson (Ward 1), Colin Ake (Ward 3), and Brian Wolfe (Ward 5)�

The mayor and the City Council then voted to affirm several reappointments to advisory and planning bodies� Mayor Caldwell administered oaths to Lisa Morton, Spencer Nix, and Melissa Madigan for the Downtown Development Authority and Rob Hogan, Ali Najafi, and Chase Roth for the Planning Commission

The meeting also included council business such as board appointments and reappointments including the Ethics Board and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board� Council Member Colin Ake was appointed mayor pro tempore, City Manager Jeff Moon was reappointed to the Cherokee County Development Authority, and Cherokee County Appointee David Moody was ratified as Land Bank Board Member�

For agendas, minutes, and videos of Woodstock City Council meetings, visit WoodstockGa�gov/meetings�

Woodstock Resident Wins TV Game Show Grand Prize

Woodstock resident Demetria Lane competed on Game Show Network’s Flip Side with her best friend Biannka Walker, and they won the grand prize of $10,000 Lane and Walker plan to use their winnings to take a girls trip�

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

Woodstock Middle School Student Wins Regional Essay Contest

Seventh-grader Eden Amosa is the Cherokee County winner and the regional runner-up for the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District’s 24th annual essay contest, which is open to all metro Atlanta middle school students Her essay, entitled “The Importance of the Wastewater Treatment Process,” is posted on CCSD’s website� Amosa was recognized at the regional awards ceremony at the Georgia State Capitol�

Small Business Advancement Series Offered in Cherokee County

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

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

February: A Season ofLove, Movement, and Self-Care

By Dr. Norman Colby

[Healthy Life] February in Georgia feels like a turning point Kids return to sports and activities, parents juggle work and school schedules, and time spent in the car increases as life picks up speed

This is also when many people notice aches and stiffness they’ve been ignoring� Months of sitting more, extra screen time, long workdays, and a return to outdoor activity can take a toll It’s common to hear, “I thought it would go away,” or “I didn’t realize how tight I was until I started moving again ”

Known as the month of love, February reminds us to care for our families and show appreciation for those who matter most But caring for others begins with caring for yourself� When your body isn’t functioning well, it’s harder to enjoy everyday moments — from coaching on the sidelines

to playing with your kids or getting through the workday comfortably

Chiropractic care focuses on improving how your body moves and functions, not just relieving symptoms Addressing small issues early can help you stay active and comfortable as spring approaches�

This February, consider making your health part of your routine — not just when something hurts, but as a way to support your overall well-being� Chiropractic can help individuals and families move better, feel better, and stay active doing what they love

Dr. Norman Colby is a chiropractor and the owner of Woodstock Chiropractic. 1198 Buckhead Crossing, Unit F, Woodstock. 770-693-7618. WoodstockFamilyChiropractic.com

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

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