The Measuring of Days
As2026 “marches” on, March 8 will bring more sunlight to our days, as we spring forward for Daylight Saving Time. There are generally two camps of people regarding the loss of an hour this time of year: those who love that it will no longer be dark when they leave for work in the morning and when they arrive home in the evening, and those who think the practice is outdated and disruptive to daily routines and natural rhythms.
Regardless of which camp you fall into, the more important thing might be to consider how we measure the success of the hours in our days. Many calculate a successful day by how much money they make. Others might calculate it by how many things they checked off their to-do lists. But what if we based success on how many times we laughed with a friend or loved one? Or how much time we spent in nature? Or how many hours we were at peace?
Whatever criterion you use to measure how fulfilling your days are, my hope is that you at least use your own yardstick rather than base it on what success looks like to someone else.
If you measure success by how much quality time you spend with loved ones, check out our Events Calendar on pages 6-10 for fun activities close to home. If you measure it by how much money you save or by how much waste you eliminate while providing healthy food for your family, check out this month’s “From Scraps to Sprouts” feature on pages 22-23.
May the luck o’ the Irish be with you this St. Patrick’s Day (3/17), and all the rest of your days!
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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Family Life Magazines 6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
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© 2026 All rights reserved PLEASE RECYCLE THISMAGAZINE
BY JULIE SENGER
Get Crafty for International Craft Month
March is International Craft Month, and St� Patrick’s Day is on the 17th� Celebrate both occasions with this festive project, which is a fun sensory experience for children of all ages Please carefully supervise little ones to ensure their safety while they play with the finished product�
Leprechaun Slime
Supplies
• 6 oz� bottle of white school glue
• Green food coloring (to desired shade of green)
• 1 cup + 1 tsp� water
• 1 tsp� Borax
• Gold glitter (optional)
Procedure
1. In a large bowl, mix the bottle of glue plus 1 tsp� water and the desired amount of food coloring
2. In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, dissolve 1 tsp� Borax into 1 cup of water�
3. Stir the Borax mixture into the glue mixture The glue mixture will immediately become thick and clumpy� Continue to stir for about 20-30 seconds�
4. Sprinkle the desired amount of gold glitter into the slime mixture (optional)
5. Once the glue mixture has thickened and a large mass is formed, drain any excess liquid
6. Knead the slime It will be gooey and sticky at first, but it will firm up as you work with it�
7. When the slime reaches a soft, silky, and slow fluid consistency that takes the shape of whatever vessel you put it into, it is ready for playtime�
MARCH
1-24
Some Bunny Special
Cherokee Recreation & Parks Association is collecting prefilled Easter baskets to be delivered to children in need throughout Cherokee County Candy must be in the original, sealed package� Baskets should have Easter-related items only� Regular hours, The Buzz, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton; Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton; or The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
1-5/2
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 that were seemingly plucked from your most fantastical dreams Admission is FREE 8:00am-7:00pm Sunday-Wednesday and 8:00am-8:00pm Thursday-Saturday, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.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
4 & 4/1 Fresh Start Mornings
This FREE event is open to the public and brings the entrepreneurial community together for educational programs and to support one another with crowd-sourced feedback� Sessions provide educational discussions led by industry professionals, or they feature a local startup that is seeking feedback�
9:00-10:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartUpCherokee.com
6
20th Annual Cherokee County Farm Bureau 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
7 Cherokee County School
District Certified Job Fair — CCSD is seeking outstanding teachers and other certified staff to join its team for next school year Interested applicants can preregister on the website 9:00-11:30am, River Ridge High School, 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. TinyURL.com/CCSDJobFair2026
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
7
CCEF Celebration of Education Gala: Shamrocks and Shenanigans
This event features cocktails, a silent auction, dancing, a performance by the Irish Comedy Tour, live music by local artists Ethan Senger and Kurt Lee Wheeler, Irish dance performances, dinner, and a full program during which Alumni of the Year Awards are announced� Proceeds benefit students, teachers, and staff of CCSD schools 6:00pm, Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org
11
Lunchin’ — Enjoy this boxed lunch event that features a small business subject matter expert� 11:30am, Chattahoochee Tech (board room), 8371 Main Street, Woodstock. InWdstk.org
12
mINgle — This after-hours networking event highlights a WDSTK business 4:30-6:30pm, location TBD, Woodstock. InWdstk.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, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. SmallTownCreatives.net
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
March Is
International Ideas Month; as well as National Caffeine Awareness, Cheerleading Safety, Craft, Credit Education, Hemophilia Awareness, Kidney, Music in Our Schools, Nutrition, Peanut, Small Press, Social Work, Umbrella, and Women’s History Month; and Endometriosis Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis Awareness, and Rising Star Month�
13
Metro Atlanta Film Summit
Convening creatives, decision makers, and industry leaders, MAFS aims to ignite conversations that empower guests to chart the path forward for the metro filmmaking community Event fee is $58�51� 9:00am-5:00pm, YANMAR EVO Center, 5889 Old Alabama Road, Acworth. MetroAtlantaFilmSummit.com
13
Parents’ Night Out — Kids will make arts and crafts, play in the pool, eat pizza, and watch a movie The fee is $30 per child 5:15-9:30pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
13-29
Seared — This hilarious and insightful new play explores what happens when art and money collide Tickets are $21-$25 2:30pm and 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
[continued on page 8]
MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
Regional Library System
14 Science Saturday: Archaeology
Learn about the science of archaeology through fun, hands-on activities for ages 8+� Event fee is $12 for participants and $7 for supervising adults� 10:30am12:00pm and 1:00-2:30pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
16
14
Shamrock Pub Crawl — Downtown Woodstock eateries will feature themed food and drink specials� Time varies by establishment, downtown Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com
Never Alone Community Food Pantry Taste & Tour — Tour the facility, taste the food that is provided to guests, and learn how to serve the community Please RSVP to attend� 5:30–7:30pm, Never Alone Community Food Pantry, 291 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. 404-819-9625. NeverAlone.org
19 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
20 Homeschool Day: Life on the Homestead — Drop in to experience life on the homestead with special guests and hands-on activities Event Fee is $12 for students and $7 for adults� 11:00am-3:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
20 Stand Up For Seniors Fundraising Luncheon — Get a delicious lunch for $10 All proceeds support local seniors 11:30am-1:00pm, Cedarhurst of Canton, 3100 Hidden Valley Drive, Canton. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
21-22
Wing & Rock Fest — Bring friends and family to enjoy finger-lickin’ good eats and live rock tributes� Check the website for full event details 11:00am-7:00pm Saturday and 11:00am-6:00pm Sunday, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. WingAndRockFest.com
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
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.
24
24
Cherokee Student Film Festival — High school students from across the county will show their short films and accept awards, including an audience choice award! FREE! 6:00pm, Woodstock Arts, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock.
Hear, Here! — Join Ken Wheeler, Ph D , to learn about life in the 1800s FREE! 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
26
Sip + Shop — Enjoy a festive evening of shopping local with specials and treats offered by participating retailers 5:00-9:00pm, downtown Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com
26 History Uncorked
Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer while you explore the museum after hours� Ages 21+, ID required� Admission is free for History Cherokee members and $5 for nonmembers 5:00-7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
26 WIT! The Woodstock Arts Improv Troupe will have the audience rolling down the aisle with laughter! Tickets are $10-$14 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
27
The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty)
On the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, connect with individuals who fill grandparent roles and bring honor to Christ through grandparenting 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
Flashlight Egg Hunt — Kids can bring a flashlight for an egg hunt under the stars Children will be separated into age groups before the hunt� Meet the Easter Bunny, dance to music, shop vendor booths and food trucks, and enjoy the kid zone Event fee is $10 preregistration and $15 on the day of the event� 6:00-9:00pm (hunt begins at 8:00pm), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-501-8002. PlayCherokee.org
28 Egg-straordinary Extravaganza
Spring has sprung and we are celebrating with an Easterthemed extravaganza at the pool! Children will enjoy outdoor games, arts and crafts, music, and egg hunts inside the pool and outside on the lawn� Bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss pictures with the Easter Bunny, $12 per participant 11:30am (sensory friendly); 12:15pm (outdoor egg hunt); 1:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:00pm (in-water egg hunts); Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
[continued on page 10]
from page 9
28 Morning Influence
Enjoy a community program and breakfast at this monthly networking event� 8:00am, The Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. InWdstk.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
28 Lantern Series: Jim Messina
Whether you’re reconnecting with old favorites or discovering his music for the first time, Jim Messina delivers a concert experience that is heartfelt, high-energy, and unforgettable If you appreciate timeless songwriting, smooth harmonies, and guitar work that shaped the sound of rock and country music, you won’t want to miss this� Tickets are $25-$40 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 113 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
ONGOING
YPOW (Young Professionals of Woodstock)
AM — Join other young professionals every Thursday morning for coffee, networking, and an informal chat with a local leader� Register for this FREE event because space is limited� 7:30-8:30am, The Circuit, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.GlueUp.com
4
APRIL
BBQ and Brews
Check out the Best BBQ pitmasters in the state! Live music all day, 100+ retail vendors, kids zone, beer trailers, and all that downtown Ball Ground has to offer Admission is free 12:00-8:00pm, City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123.
DTBallGround.com
25 Greenstock Day Recycling & Paper Shredding Event Woodstock continues its journey to “Go Green!” For a list of all acceptable items, visit the website Drive through, and items will be unloaded for you� Collections will be free of charge except for TVs, which require a fee of $25, projection TVs $40, CRT monitors $10, and LCD monitors $5, cash only 9:00am1:00pm, Woodstock City Church (back parking lot), 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
Community Yoga Classes — On Monday mornings, bring your mat for a FREE yoga class
The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
Cherokee County Senior Services Programs
Cherokee County offers a wide range of programs and services designed to support older adults, and Cherokee County Senior Services is dedicated to helping seniors and caregivers find the resources they need For information about senior programs and assistance throughout the county, call 770-345-5320 to speak with a trained specialist who can answer questions and provide referrals�
Areas of support include
• Senior Activities and Recreation
• Free Durable Medical Equipment
• Homemaker and Home-Delivered Meal Services
• Legal and Home-Care Referrals
• Nursing Home and Assisted Living Information
• Caregiver Support Groups
Caregiver Assistance Program offers free monthly meetings where caregivers can connect with others facing similar challenges and learn from aging-services professionals who share practical tools and guidance� 770-345-5320
Case Management services help eligible residents ages 60 and older develop individualized care plans, coordinate community resources, and ensure ongoing needs are met 770-345-5320 or 770-345-5312
Daily engagement opportunities are available through Congregate Programs at the Canton and Ball Ground Senior Centers, where seniors enjoy nutritious meals along with crafts, games, shopping trips, exercise, guest speakers, and field trips� 770-345-6730
For homebound seniors at nutritional risk, the Home Delivered Meals (Meals-On-Wheels) program provides balanced meals delivered directly to their homes 770-345-5320
Cherokee County Senior Services Senior Centers
1001 Univeter Road, Canton
770-345-2675
388 Groover Street, Ball Ground
678-454-5082
• Financial and Housing Assistance
• Incontinence Supplies
• Personal and Respite Care
• Medicaid and Medicare Counseling
• Transportation Options
In-Home Services also support eligible seniors with light housekeeping, grocery shopping, and simple meal preparation 770-345-5320
Active adults ages 55 and older can participate in Silver Roamers, which hosts two to four outings or activities each month at various locations� Annual membership is $30, plus varied activity costs 770-501-8013 or 678-493-6116
Transportation Assistance is available through several options, including CATS round-trip rides to the Canton morning program for $1 per day, transportation vouchers for essential trips such as medical appointments, and a Volunteer Driver Program offering screened drivers for errands and critical visits
770-345-6238 (CATS)
770-345-7515 (vouchers)
770-345-1224 (volunteer drivers)
City of Woodstock’s William G. Long Senior Center
223 Arnold Mill Road
Woodstock
678-445-6518
Spring will be “springing” on March 20 Enjoy these fun crossword clues that celebrate the upcoming warmer temps in Canton, Woodstock, and greater Cherokee County� The answer key can be found on page 28
PuzzlePage
2� River that runs through Canton
3� North Georgia mountain range visible on clear spring days
2. River that runs through Canton
5 Spring sport played at local recreation parks
3. North Georgia mountain range visible on clear spring days
6� Popular lake in Cherokee County
5. Spring sport played at local recreation parks
Free Woodstock Summer Concert Series, held at Northside Cherokee ______
Free Woodstock Summer Concert Series, held at Northside Cherokee ______
Tool used for yard cleanup 6 Spring-flowering bush that’s commonly seen along the course at The Masters golf tournament
Tool used for yard cleanup
7� Yellow tree dust that coats cars each spring
9 Green plant associated with St Patrick’s Day
6. Popular lake in Cherokee County
8 County where Canton and Woodstock are located
10� Woodstock Mayor Michael ______
Canton Mayor Bill ______
6. Spring-flowering bush that’s commonly seen along the course at The Masters golf tournament 7. Yellow tree dust that coats cars each spring
11 Decorative covered structure found in parks in both downtown Canton and Woodstock
13� Spring flowering tree with white blooms that look like a cross
14 Woodstock trail that leads to Woofstock Park
Book Review
BY SARAH CHILDERS
Part of Your World
Celebrate fandom, fun, and community this month at SequoyahCon — a free event for all ages at Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) Two Cherokee County locations will host SequoyahCon on March 14, each with its own exciting theme:
• Woodstock Public Library: Under the Sea
• R T Jones Memorial Library: Superheroes
At the Woodstock Public Library, spend the day building LEGO coral reef creations, participating in sea creature trivia, and dancing under a shower of bubbles at the Under the Sea Dance Party� Visit R�T� Jones Memorial Library for SequoyahCon to make super villain seed bombs, see SuperDogs in action, and step into the bat cave to learn more about Georgia’s bats� Explore all these events and more at SequoyahCon! Visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary org/con for the full schedule and details
imagined she would see Prince Eric or his kingdom again, until she discovers that her father may still be alive� Follow along as Ariel journeys to save her father, defeat Ursula, and reclaim her stolen happily ever after�
Dive deep into the Under the Sea theme with author Liz Braswell’s reimagining of The Little Mermaid entitled Part of Your World, which explores what would happen if Ariel had never defeated Ursula, the sea witch� Taking place five years after being defeated and the death of her father, King Triton, Ariel rules as the voiceless queen of Atlantica while Ursula rules Prince Eric’s kingdom on land� Ariel never
In addition to physical books available for checkout, did you know that you can check out digital books, audiobooks, and magazines from the library on your phone or tablet? Download the Libby app to get started Log in with your SRLS library card number to explore the entire digital collection and find your next favorite read Visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary org/elibrary to learn more
Whether you’re looking for your next read or your next hobby this year, SRLS has all the tools to help you succeed Library cards are always free for Cherokee County residents�
Sarah Childers is the marketing manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. ChildersS@seqlib.org. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
GrassRoots Turf Unlock Your Lawn’s True Potential With Liquid Aeration
Toachieve a lush, resilient, pictureperfect lawn, most homeowners focus on watering, mowing, and fertilizing — while overlooking a critical element: soil structure. Compacted soil is the silent killer of lawn health. This is why GrassRoots Turf proudly offers liquid aeration, a modern and highly effective solution to rejuvenate your lawn from the soil up.
Unlike traditional core aeration, which relies on heavy machinery to punch shallow holes into the turf, liquid aeration works underground at the molecular level, breaking apart soil structures without leaving behind a mess. The result is a greener, healthier lawn that stands up to drought, heat, and seasonal stress more effectively than lawns treated with mechanical aeration. Liquid aeration breaks through hydrophobic (water-repellent) soil, improves drainage in compacted or clay-heavy areas, and reduces runoff. Over
time, this leads to less water waste and lower water bills. Compared to traditional core aeration, the benefits are clear. Core aeration is disruptive, leaving behind scattered soil plugs and visible holes that can linger for days. Even more limiting, core aeration only treats the specific spots where holes are punched. The majority of the soil remains untouched.
GrassRoots Turf’s liquid aeration covers the entire lawn uniformly, penetrating far deeper and without any unsightly aftermath. There is no heavy machinery to drag across your yard — just an efficient application that begins improving soil structure immediately.
If you want a lawn that thrives season after season, GrassRoots Turf’s liquid aeration service is the new standard in lawn care. It isn’t just an upgrade — it’s the smarter, cleaner, more effective way to build the lawn you’ve always wanted.
Cherokee County School District Announcements
2026 STAR Students and Teachers Announced
The STAR, or Student Teacher Achievement Recognition, student honor is awarded to the high school senior from each Georgia public and private high school with the highest score on any single SAT test date and who also ranks in the top tier of their class for GPA Each honored student is invited to select his or her favorite teacher to be named that school’s STAR Teacher� Additionally, an overall CCSD winner is recognized for earning the highest eligible SAT score of all the STAR Students, and this year’s honoree is Levi Cone of Creekview HS�
CCSD honorees: Cherokee HS STAR Student Grace Dai, STAR Teacher Morgan Clifton; Creekview HS STAR Student and CCSD STAR Student Levi Cone, STAR Teacher Drew Lawson; Etowah HS STAR Student Alexander Lu, STAR Teacher Kristy Wiggins; i-Grad Virtual Academy STAR Student Michael McGuire, STAR Teacher Hannah Mitchell; River Ridge HS STAR Student Claire Park, STAR Teacher Tracye Bulger; Sequoyah HS STAR Student Ben Koster, STAR Teacher Dr� Cathy Murphy; and Woodstock HS STAR Student Daniel Cabra-Lara, STAR Teacher Kate McIntyre
Business Announces Major Expansion in Cherokee County
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) announced that Commercial Bank & Business Equipment, a premier provider of architectural millwork, will expand its operations in Cherokee County by constructing its state-of-the-art headquarters in the newly developed Canton Corporate Park The project represents $25 million in capital investment and will create 70 new jobs�
New Class of Educators Inducted Into the Hall of Fame
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 inductees: Kelly Burleson, Fred Forsh, Deborah Frost, Charles Hopkins, and Lucille Rich� The CCSD Educators Hall of Fame recognizes retired educators who made significant contributions to public education during their career in CCSD and left a lasting positive impact on the lives of students, colleagues, and our community�
The new headquarters will be located on the first developed tract of Canton Corporate Park, marking a milestone not only for the company but for the community’s future growth� The 50-acre park, designed to attract high-quality employers, still features two additional sites currently being marketed by COED – offering opportunities for innovative, growth-oriented companies that align with Cherokee’s needs�
(L-R) Charles Hopkins, Kelly Burleson, Lucille Rich, Fred Forsh, and Deborah Frost
Keep Cherokee Beautiful Awarded Governor’s Circle Award
Keep Cherokee Beautiful recently received a 2025 Governor’s Circle Award for its outstanding achievements in community beautification and environmental sustainability The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation presented the award in recognition of exemplary performance in litter reduction, waste minimization, and community greening�
Cherokee Student Film Summit Prepares the Next Generation of Filmmakers
A continued partnership between the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) and the Cherokee County School District (CCSD) is strengthening both the local film industry and the future workforce through the eighth annual Cherokee Student Film Summit
Designed for upper-level audio/visual technology and film (AVTF) students from across all CCSD high schools, the summit offered an immersive, in-county experience that blended industry exposure, professional skill-building, and real-world insight — whether students pursue careers in film or apply their creative and technical skills in other industries�
This year’s summit featured an impressive range of industry professionals, from sculptors who have worked on the hit Netflix series Stranger Things to motion capture engineers who developed award-winning software used in major blockbusters such as Avatar and Happy Feet� Through workshops and panel discussions, students gained firsthand insight into the many career paths that exist within — and beyond — the film industry
By connecting students directly with working professionals, the summit reinforced how skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, technical proficiency, and creative thinking are transferable across a wide range of professions, preparing students for long-term success in the workforce�
Summit highlights included:
• Industry-Led Workshops and Panels: Georgia-based professionals shared insights on careers ranging from motion capture and sculpting to live sports production, camera motion technology, and vertical storytelling
• Post-Secondary Pathways and Networking: Students connected with regional colleges, universities, and training programs to explore next steps after high school
• Hands-On Learning Experiences: Interactive experiences helped students build practical skills behind the camera
The summit also served as a launchpad for the upcoming Cherokee Student Film Festival, where students will premiere their original short films The festival is free and open to the public on March 24 at Woodstock Arts, and students will be recognized with awards celebrating their creativity, storytelling, and technical achievement�
Visit CherokeeGa org/key-business-sectors/ film-media to learn more about Cherokee’s film community�
First Citizen of Cherokee County Named
The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce announced that G Cecil Pruett is the 51st recipient of the First Citizen of Cherokee County Award�
Pruett moved his family to Canton more than 61 years ago He found business success with StarKist and Henny Penny and later built a career in the insurance industry� His leadership extended to regional and statewide organizations, including the Georgia Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, Georgia Municipal Association, North Georgia Regional Commission, and Atlanta Regional Commission� Locally, he served as a trustee at Reinhardt University, board chair of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, and board member of the Bank of Canton and Crescent Bank
Pruett also served 12 years as mayor of Canton, preserving its small-town character while leading projects such as the Hickory Log Creek Dam and renovation of the historic Canton Theatre
A member of Canton First Baptist Church for more than six decades, he has taught Sunday School for 60 years and served more than 50 years as a deacon, earning lifetime status
The 2025 Cherokee County Annual Report is available
The comprehensive document provides citizens with information about the county’s performance in the preceding year, including information such as performance highlights, a letter from the chairman, and financial information� Scan the QR code to see the report
2026 Woodstock Summer Concert Series Announcement
• May 9, Black Jacket Symphony presents Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet and other hits
• June 13, Grammy, ACM, CMA, and CMT award-winning country star Carly Pearce takes the stage
• July 11, legendary R&B and funk powerhouse Midnight Star will captivate downtown Woodstock
• August 8, the Pop 2000 Tour with Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, O-Town, and LFO will bring you right back to the early 2000s
• September 12, electrifying Face 2 Face (an Elton John and Billy Joel tribute band) will pay homage to the two iconic piano legends
Visit WoodstockConcertSeries�com for more information� All shows are at Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater They are free to attend, general admission, no tickets necessary
County Breaks Ground on Yellow Creek Road Conservation Area and Trail System
A new conservation-use area with trail systems for pedestrians, mountain bikers, and horseback riders is coming to northeast Cherokee County� Cherokee Recreation and Parks broke ground on the Yellow Creek Road Conservation Area and Trails last month While eight acres of the overall 538 acres are currently disturbed for parking, restrooms, and a horse paddock, the project will conserve
First Phase of Elm Street Pedestrian Crossing Project Underway
more than 530 acres in the rural area of northeast Cherokee County When the park opens later this year, half of that disturbed acreage will have been replanted�
“We are very excited to offer this passive recreation opportunity in this beautiful area of our county,” said Recreation and Parks Director Jay Worley� “We will have two sets of trails to keep horse riders and mountain bikers separate for safety purposes Hikers will be able to use either trail system�”
The overall project will include 15-20 miles of trail With the help of Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association, staff from the Natural Resources Division, and volunteers will create the trails over the next few months The Conservation Area and Trails are expected to open to the public in fall 2026�
On March 2, Elm Street between Main Street and Wall Street was permanently closed to vehicles, and preconstruction work began Full construction starts March 16 The first phase of the project introduces a 12-foot-wide pedestrian crossing at the intersection of Main Street and Elm Street� Construction will take approximately 90 days, improving safety and accessibility for everyone� Once the crossing is finished, the signal and mast arm over Main Street will be finalized within the following 3–4 months
After the crossing and signal installation are complete, the City will move into the design phase for a stunning pedestrian plaza that will stretch from Main Street to Market Street This next step will include a robust public input process, inviting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to help shape the future of downtown Woodstock�
During construction, drivers and delivery vehicles can still access the public parking lot next to Reformation Brewery via Mill Street and Wall Street Expect occasional single-lane closures on Main Street while crews are working�
Follow the City of Woodstock on social media and subscribe to email/SMS alerts at WoodstockGa gov for updates and opportunities to share your ideas
The State of Our City Stronger, Safer, and Better Off
By Mayor Michael Caldwell
Last month, I had the privilege of standing before hundreds of neighbors, business owners, and friends at Woodstock City Church to deliver my 2026 State of the City address� Looking out at the largest crowd in the event’s history, I was reminded that Woodstock’s story isn’t written in government halls, but in the storefronts of Main Street and on the front porches of our neighborhoods�
Four years ago, at the start of my first term, our administration made a commitment to you� We didn’t promise the road would be easy, but we promised the destination would be worth it We rejected the false choice that says a growing city must choose between prosperity and character� We chose a different path�
Today, I am proud to report that those promises were kept
We are safer.
For the first time in a decade, our police department is fully staffed We invested in the largest pay increase in department history, and as a result, crime is down 21%� Simultaneously, our fire department, now ranked in the top 1 5% of departments nationwide, is expanding with two new stations and has slashed response times by 21%�
We are stronger. Woodstock has grown into an economic engine that generates 40% of Cherokee County’s GDP on just 3% of its land Our local businesses are generating more than $5 billion in annual revenue, proving that we are the premier destination for commerce in the region�
We are respectful of your investment. Because of that commercial growth, we stopped asking homeowners to foot the bill for their own prosperity� We have cut the city tax rate by 15% since 2022, and today, you are paying Woodstock’s lowest millage rate in more than 30 years
We’ve opened the largest parking deck in the county (and kept it free); we’re connecting our trails to the Silver Comet Trail; and with an 87% mandate from voters, we are building a generational legacy at Little River Park
Make no mistake — the state of our city is stronger, safer, and better off than it was four years ago
But the question before us now is not “How did we do?” The question is “What’s next?” To answer that, our team has stripped away the government jargon and focused on a single, guiding mission for Woodstock: We are building a city that feels like home�
From the “orange cones” of progress to the quiet security of a safe neighborhood, every decision we make is dedicated to that mission Thank you for inviting me back Let’s get to work
Michael Caldwell is the mayor of the City of Woodstock. 678-523-8570. WoodstockGa.gov
Towne Lake
From Scraps to Sprouts
By Joshua Fuder
Gardening with food scraps can be a simple way to stretch produce dollars while exploring plant biology and growth cycles at home Many common fruits, vegetables, and herbs can be grown from parts that usually end up in the trash during meal preparation� Success with this type of “garbage gardening,” however, depends on the plant’s biology and whether propagation begins from a seed, stem, or root
At its most basic level, regrowing food scraps works because plants store energy and growth tissue in specific structures When the right conditions are present (moisture, light, and sometimes soil/nutrients) these tissues can resume growth Understanding which plant parts can do this helps set realistic expectations and avoids common frustrations�
SEEDS AND PITS
Seeds from many produce items can be saved and planted in our own gardens
From a botanical standpoint, anything that contains seeds is technically a fruit� When replanting seeds from culinary vegetable fruits such as tomatoes, beans, and peppers, there are two important considerations�
The first is the growth stage at harvest Many vegetables are picked at market maturity — when flesh is still tender and flavorful, rather than botanical maturity — when seeds
are fully developed or viable Crops such as summer squash, sweet corn, cucumbers, beans, and okra reach botanical maturity well past the stage most people would enjoy eating them In contrast, tomatoes, peppers, and melons are usually harvested at full botanical maturity, when seeds are viable for regrowth�
The second consideration is that much of the produce on the market comes from hybrid varieties� Hybrid plants are created by crossing two parent varieties to combine traits for vigor, disease resistance, or improved flavor While seeds from hybrid fruits are viable, the resulting plants will likely not resemble the original produce in size, taste, or growth�
Growing traditional fruits from their seeds is possible, but patience is required� Apples, peaches, pears, and citrus are perennial plants that can take years to reach maturity A peach grown from seed may take three or more years to produce fruit, while apples and pears can take closer to a decade when grown from seed Tropical or subtropical fruits such as citrus, mango, papaya, and avocado will germinate readily but must be protected from freezing temperatures�
NO SEEDS, NO PROBLEM
Planting or regrowing leftover vegetable parts is similar to standard propagation methods used for many vegetables and herbs� These plants are described as clonally propagated, meaning new growth develops from existing plant tissue rather than seeds The key to this process is the presence of meristematic tissue — undifferentiated cells capable of continuous division that allow plants to produce new roots, stems, leaves, and flowers�
Many people have seen lettuce bases or green onion roots sprout new growth on a windowsill In these cases, the plant is not starting over but continuing its life cycle using stored energy in the remaining tissue� While regrown plants are often less vigorous than seed-grown plants, they can still provide multiple harvests of edible produce
BEST SCRAPS TO REGROW
• Green onions and leeks grow quickly and can produce multiple harvests if the base, which is a modified stem with meristematic tissue, is left intact
• Herbs like basil, mint, oregano, rosemary, and thyme can easily root from stem cuttings This method of propagation is quicker, and thus, it is how herbs are produced in commercial nurseries�
• Head-type lettuce, bok choy, and celery can readily regrow leaves and roots if the base is left intact and placed in a shallow dish of water or potting soil
• Ginger is technically a rhizome or modified stem, with nodes for the growth of roots and shoots Growing your own ginger is as easy as planting an unused portion
of organic ginger 2-4 inches deep in a container after the threat of frost has passed
• Potatoes and sweet potatoes — in our area, we will have better success with thin-skinned varieties of potatoes planted March through early April Russet types do not grow well in our climate� Potatoes are stem tubers, which are large storage organs with all the parts of a normal stem, including nodes or “eyes ” Sweet potatoes are root tubers that thrive in our hot summers Starting your own plants can be as simple as putting a sweet potato in a glass with a few inches of water or a shallow pot of moist soil in a sunny window
Whether it’s green onions in a windowsill or the patient care of a seed-grown peach tree, growing plants from scraps can be a surprisingly fruitful endeavor�
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
Mat-Carrying Faith
By Pastor Andy Rogers
[InGood Faith] Do you know of someone frozen by fear? Gripped by depression? Stuck in the past? In other words, do you know someone who is physically, rationally, or emotionally paralyzed? Most of us do, and if we are honest, sometimes we are the ones who are unable to move forward in life — a life that Jesus came to make possible, life abundant and forevermore�
In the Bible, there is a beautiful encounter between Jesus and a physically paralyzed man� Picture the scene: Word had gotten out that Jesus had returned to Capernaum, where he encountered a standing-room-only crowd, which was not unusual because Jesus’ presence brought hope and healing�
The paralyzed man was unable to join the crowd� As someone who knew what it was like to go through life with both physical and social limitations, no doubt when he heard that Jesus was in town, the news simultaneously brought him hope and despair because he couldn’t get to Him� Thankfully, some chose not to join the crowd but instead gathered around the man’s mat, picked him up, and carried him with them�
Despite being “crowded out,” these mat carriers were undeterred They climbed onto the roof of the house Jesus was in, tore open a portion of it, and lowered the paralyzed man right in front of Jesus
Jesus was moved — not by the paralyzed man, but by the man’s friends — those who went to the mat, so to speak, so this man could meet Jesus� Jesus began to heal this man, but not in the way we might expect� He first forgave him, which seems strange at first, but Jesus was addressing the man’s deeper paralysis — one that incapacitates us, too� Our bent toward self and sinfulness often impedes our relationships both with others and with God After addressing his deeper relational paralysis, Jesus heals the man’s physical paralysis�
The good news is that Jesus also heals the paralysis in you and me, but sometimes we need mat carriers, too� We need people who will carry us when we become overwhelmed by depression, grief, guilt, or shame When pain, addiction, doubt, pride, and the like leave us paralyzed and in need of Jesus, we need mat carriers to lift us with their faith when ours is faltering
I am thankful for the mat carriers in my life� My hope is that I don’t overlook the opportunity and privilege to be a mat carrier for others Let’s each do our part in picking up the corner of someone’s mat, so they may encounter hope and healing at the feet of Jesus�
Andy Rogers is lead pastor at The Way Woodstock, 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-516-0371. TheWayWoodstock.com
RibbonGroundCuttingsBreakings
Gondolier’s
JBY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
JENNIFER BARNARD Connection Through Creation Artist Profile
ennifer Barnard’s studio fills the second floor of the barn on her Free Home farm�
Flooded with light from two large picture windows, it overlooks horse pastures and woods filled with Georgia pines One corner is filled with watercolor paints and brushes, acrylics, and mixed media materials� In a second corner, a small pastel of a gondolier — a work in progress — stands on an easel At the opposite end, both corners are dedicated to oils�
shadow of a person in a house, the story evoked by a man reading a newspaper, or a cowboy dueling a bucking bronco�
“I do what feeds me and connects to other people� It depends on the day and the mood� I like how oils mix; they’re forgiving� Pastels keep you loose Watercolor — I like because they’re so quick and brilliant Abstract is like dancing; once it starts, it’s intuitive� I also love plein air on the beach or wherever� I get bored doing one thing,” she said
Moving from one corner to another, Barnard can work on several pieces at once, some large, some small, some landscape, others abstract Sometimes, a work tells her to step away for a while Other times, she needs the freedom that mixed media allows, or the flexibility of acrylics and pastels� Always, she has a story to tell
Her subject matter is whatever catches her eye, but she is especially drawn to nature�
“I’ll look outside and see something that speaks to me,” she said “I have always felt God’s presence in nature� Art is my way of speaking it�”
She is drawn to landscapes and to barns but is also moved by the play of light and the
No matter which medium, surface, or style she is working in, “the result is just me,” she said “I feel there’s cohesion due to my unique mark-making, focus, and techniques within each piece� To me, it is similar to handwriting and accents in speaking�”
Barnard draws the viewer into her works with lines and shapes, contrasts, colors, and textures that move and excite the eye� She enjoys the depth and energy she achieves in mixed media, often applying limewash in bold strokes that create movement as well as a rough, mottled surface�
Barnard hopes each piece tells its story and speaks to viewers “Art,” she says, “is a joyful way to connect to other people�”
To see more of Barnard’s work, visit JenniferDBarnard.com or follow her on Instagram @jdb_fineart or Facebook.com/jenniferdean.barnard.
Barnard with her grandchildren
March Into Spring With a Healthier Spine
By Dr. Norman Colby
[Healthy Life] During the winter months, it’s common for both kids and adults to spend long hours sitting at desks, on the couch, or hunched over phones and tablets, which can take a toll on posture and spinal alignment� As March welcomes the first day of spring, add in sports practices, spring cleaning projects, and weekend yard work, and it is easy to see why aches, pains, and stiffness often show up this time of year
Just like you clean out closets and open windows to let in fresh air, your spine can benefit from a “spring reset�” A properly functioning spine supports healthy movement, balance, and nervous system function For children, this can mean better posture, improved coordination, and support for growing bodies For adults, it can mean less tension, improved mobility, and more energy
March also reminds us that good health is not about luck — it is about consistent care Small steps taken now can help prevent bigger issues down the road and set your family up for a more active, enjoyable spring and summer
As you plan your month, consider adding chiropractic care to your family’s wellness routine Schedule a checkup, ask questions, and take proactive steps toward healthier movement for everyone in your household
Dr. Norman Colby is a chiropractor and the owner of Woodstock Chiropractic. 1198 Buckhead Crossing, Unit F, Woodstock. 770-693-7618. WoodstockFamilyChiropractic.com
