AsWe Gather, Remember This…
Are you ready to gobble ‘til you wobble, express what you’re grateful for to your loved ones, and maybe snuggle up on an empty sofa for a nice tryptophan-induced nap this Thanksgiving (11/27)? But before we get to that festive, foodfilled celebration, be sure to thank a vet on Veterans Day (11/11) and let them know how much you appreciate their incredible sacrifices for our freedoms.
For more happenings this month, check out our extensive Events Calendar on pages 6-11, which is chock-full of fun holiday options close to home. And if you’re looking to give back this holiday season, see this month’s “Celebrate the Season of Giving” feature on pages 19-21, which is a list of Family Life Magazines’ more than 100 Community Partners — local nonprofits that champion various causes and would surely appreciate your support.
But as we prepare to plunge into this busy time of end-of-year festivities with family, friends, and coworkers in what can often be a pretty diverse collection of ideas, opinions, and perspectives on everything from the best way to cook a turkey to political points of view, we’d be wise to remember these poignant words from engineer, futurist, and inventor Nikola Tesla:
“We are all one. Only egos, beliefs, and fears separate us.”
Cheers to a peaceful holiday season of spending valuable quality time with those closest to you, and we wish you the best Thanksgiving yet! We are so thankful for our readers, advertisers, and the wonderful Woodstock community.
With sincere gratitude,
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Julie Senger
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ART
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Armetrice Cabine
Acabine@Armetrice.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
David Wright
David@FamilyLifePublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Steven Anderson, Norman Colby, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, Elaine Scott, Susan K. Treadaway
Family Life Magazines 6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
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.
© 2025 All rights reserved
Calendar
NOVEMBER
1-2
Dia de los Muertos
3-12/15
Hugs in a Blanket
Festival — Enjoy art, live music, local vendors, and the creation of a community ofrenda� FREE admission 12:00pm, Woodstock Arts Event Green, 113 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
1-30 Turkey Swim Competition
Take part in a fun, friendly competition among fellow lap swimmers to see who can swim the farthest during the month of November A log is maintained at the lifeguard station� Participation is free with a paid aquatic center admission fee� The top three adult swimmers win a prize Regular Aquatic Center hours, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton. 678880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
1-30 Veterans Appreciation Month
As a small token of appreciation, veterans and active military members receive FREE admission to the Cherokee County History Center throughout November 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
ONGOING
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
Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency is accepting new blankets and unisex slipper socks for residents of Cherokee County nursing centers� Donations accepted during regular business hours at the WREC (7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock), the Buzz (7345 Cumming Highway, Canton), and the Cherokee County Aquatic Center (1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton). 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
5
Funding Panel at Fresh Start Mornings Got a business plan but need the funding? Join e’ship and business leaders Spencer Nix, Elliott Franklin, Colin Ake, and Drew Tonsmeire for a funding panel, moderated by Laurie Buckley FREE! 9:00am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartupCherokee. com/programs-events/fresh-start-mornings
11
City of Woodstock Veterans Day Ceremony — Bring the family to honor veterans for their patriotism, love of country, willingness to serve, and sacrifice for the common good 6:00pm, The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
MilVet Meetup First Monday of each month. 6:00-8:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
1-12/8
Santa’s Calling
If you’d like Santa and his elves to call your child(ren) this year, please complete a Santa’s Calling request form on the Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency website Forms must be mailed, dropped off at the Recreation Center, or emailed by 12/8� FREE! Santa and his elves will make calls 5:00-7:00pm on 12/10 The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
1-12/13 Letters From
Santa — Would you like Santa to send your child a special letter? If so, drop off letters to Santa at the North Pole mailbox by 12/13� Santa will reply to each letter from his North Pole address Parents, if your child’s handwriting is illegible, please leave a note for Santa’s elves� FREE! Regular hours, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
November Is
National Adoption, Epilepsy Awareness, Native American Heritage, Novel Writing, Peanut Butter Lovers, and Pomegranate Month as well as Manatee Awareness Month, Movember, and World Vegan Month�
7
Habitat for Humanity NCG Cherokee Women Build Third Tuesday of each month. 6:30-7:45pm, The Timbers on Etowah/Liberty UMC, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. FKMaddox@gmail.com; Habitat-NCG.org/women-build
Brent Vernon and Sam FREE Christian Concert
Enjoy a live performance by this singer, songwriter, and ventriloquist who shares messages of hope and redemption through humor and creative excellence� 7:00-8:30pm, 504 Trinity Church, Trinity Church Road, Canton. 404-202-1945.
7
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
7-24
Small Town: Small Works
Featuring local artists who live within a 15-mile radius of Woodstock, artworks in this show are small in stature but big in impact Limited to only 15 inches or smaller, these artworks boast prices that are accessible to a wider audience� FREE admission�
Regular Reeves House hours, Reeves House Visual Arts Center, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
9 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
[continued on page 8]
Local Artist Showcase
First Friday of each month. 6:00-9:00pm, The Reeves House, 734 Reeves Street, Woodstock. 678-4944251. WoodstockArts.org
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market — Saturdays through 12/27. 8:30am12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. VisitWoodstockGa.com
Scan for
Sequoyah Regional Library System Events
13-16
15
The Cherokee Music Teachers Association Meeting — Guests are welcome to attend� 10:00am, R. T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. linda@lokey.net
15
City of Woodstock Tis the Season
Youth Spotlight Show: Seussical Jr. — Perfect for the whole family, this musical takes attendees into the world of Dr Seuss to revisit beloved characters from favorite childhood books� Tickets are $17-$19� 2:30pm or 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
15 Inaugural Fan Fest & Duck Plunge
This FREE community celebration will feature games, activities, treats, and entertainment for all ages while supporting the Cherokee Youth Foundation Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell and Canton Mayor Bill Grant will take a “Duck Plunge” into a giant cold pool filled with rubber ducks adopted for $5 each Donations help expand youth soccer programs in Cherokee County, and each duck also serves as a raffle entry for prizes announced during the plunge 11:00am-5:00pm (4:00pm Duck Plunge), Woodstock Arts Event Green, 111 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-981-5523. CherokeeYF.org/fan-fest; VisitWoodstockGA.com/fan-fest
Framed in Time: Cherokee County in 50 Images
To Be Green Recycling Event — Clean house the environmental way Recycle, reuse, reduce, repurpose, and rethink! 9:00am-1:00pm, Woodstock City Church (west parking lot), 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
18 Hear, Here! Ann Litrel and Charles Seabrook: Georgia’s Natural Wonders — These co-authors will talk about their newly released book, 35 Natural Wonders of Georgia to See Before You Die, at this FREE event 7:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
18
EmPower — This after-hours networking event is for young and new professionals who are looking to build relationships and acquire personal development skills 6:00-8:00pm, location TBD, Woodstock. RSVP at InWdstk.org/events
Through January 2026, celebrate History Cherokee’s 50th anniversary by viewing this exhibit of more than 100 years of life in Cherokee County through 50 photographs Admission is $5 for adults, free for youth 10:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
ONGOING
Morning INFluence Last Friday of each month. 8:00-9:00am, The Chambers at City Center. 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
20
Holiday Sip + Shop Stores in downtown Woodstock will offer special deals to help you find the perfect gifts, discover new merchants to love, and explore the best in new seasonal fashions Tickets are $10 per person and include a swag bag filled with goodies 5:00-9:00pm, downtown Woodstock, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com
21 Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10� All proceeds support local seniors 11:30am-1:00pm, Manor Lake Hickory Flat, 7200 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
21 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
22 Community Food Drive “Stuff the Truck” Event — Never Alone Community Food Pantry is requesting nonperishable food item donations to stuff its truck to help feed the community� 10:00am3:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 470-302-4055. NeverAlone.org
YPOW (Young Professionals of Woodstock)
AM — Join other young professionals every Thursday morning for coffee, networking, and an informal chat with a local leader 7:00-8:30am, The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-592-6056. InWdstk.org
23-12/31
Holiday Lights at Veterans Park — Take a ride in your car through a two-mile light show featuring two drive-thru tunnels, animated Christmas displays, and over two million lights! Admission is $20 per car or $50 for a season pass Proceeds will benefit various local charities� 6:00-9:00pm Sunday-Thursday and 6:00-10:00pm Friday-Saturday, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. HolidayLightsOfGa.com
27 33rd Annual Cherokee Thanksgiving
Each year, more than 2,000 meals are provided to families in need, seniors, emergency service providers, or anyone who just needs a meal in Cherokee and parts of Pickens counties Meals can be picked up or delivered by volunteers Williamson Brothers BBQ in Canton hosts the event and prepares the food� For more information, to volunteer, or to make a donation, please visit CherokeeThanksgiving.com.
27-12/14
Santa Mail
If your child would like to send a letter to Santa Claus, just drop it in the Santa mailbox in downtown Woodstock� Word has it that you may get a letter back, so be sure to include your return address! No classroom projects, please The Park at City Center Gazebo, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
[continued on page 10]
Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group On the second Thursday of each month, gather with other area caregivers 11:00am1:00pm, Little River United Methodist Church, 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock. 615-293-1670.
29
Small Business Saturday — Throughout Cherokee County, members of our community own and operate small businesses� Take the time this holiday season to support them by shopping small and local� Times vary by establishment, Cherokee County.
29
2
Christmas Market
Get your Christmas shopping done early! Curated vendors will have something for the whole family Admission is FREE 5:30-8:30pm, The Hickory Flat Gym, 4835 Hickory Road, Canton. 770-501-8002. PlayCherokee.org
Sensory Friendly Saturday — Designed for visitors with autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivities, museum patrons may explore the galleries with dimmed lighting and quieter audio, and they may also check out a sensory kit from the front desk (or feel free to bring one)� 10:00am-5:00pm, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
29-12/21
Historic Sweetscapes: A Gingerbread Journey Through Cherokee County — See iconic buildings and spaces of Cherokee County turned into gingerbread works of art by local bakers 10:00am-5:00pm TuesdaySaturday, Cherokee County History Center, 221 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
29-12/30
Holiday Lights of Woodstock — This event features a huge walk-thru Christmas light display� It’s the Christmas tradition for kids of ALL ages! Kids 12 and under are FREE All others are $10 per person Season passes are $25� The display is closed on 12/24-12/25� Proceeds benefit the Anna Crawford Children’s Center� 6:00-9:00pm Sunday-Thursday and 6:00-10:00pm Friday-Saturday, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. HolidayLightsOfGa.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
5-6
Holiday Tour of Homes — Enjoy a special tour of some of Woodstock’s beautiful historic homes and businesses decorated for the holidays� Tickets are $30-$35� 5:309:00pm Friday and 10:00am3:30pm Saturday. 770-3453288. HistoryCherokee.org
5-24 A Christmas Carol Bring the family to enjoy this good old-fashioned Christmas ghost story to get everyone in the holiday spirit 2:30pm and 7:30pm, Woodstock Arts Theatre, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. WoodstockArts.org
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
DECEMBER
6
22nd Annual Reindeer Run for the Children 5K, 10K, and Fun Run
Hosted by the Service League of Cherokee County, this event benefits children in need in Cherokee County The entry fee is $35-$40 7:00am registration, 8:00am fun run, 8:30am 5K/10K; Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. ServiceLeague.net
6
Swim With the Grinch
Help decorate the in-water holiday tree, play pool games, get a picture with the Grinch, and make some arts and crafts� The fee is $10-$15 per person� 9:00-10:15am or 10:45am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
6
3
Where Are They Now? Flashback Panel
Follow up on some past Fresh Start Mornings business presenters to learn how their businesses have grown and help them brainstorm on new challenges� 9:0010:15am, The Circuit Woodstock, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. StartupCherokee. com/fresh-start-mornings
Breakfast With Santa — Veterans and their families are invited to kick off the holiday season with a pancake breakfast and pictures with Santa� FREE! 10:00am-1:00pm, American Legion Thomas M. Brady Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. 678-983-7590. CherokeeHomelessVets.com
7
29th Annual City of Woodstock
Christmas Jubilee & Parade of Lights
As darkness falls, parade floats will light up the town� After the parade, the jubilee festivities will begin� 5:30pm parade followed by the Jubilee, downtown Woodstock/ The Park at City Center, Main Street/103 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-517-6788. WoodstockParksAndRec.com
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
12-13
National Wreaths
Across America — On 12/12, families with loved ones buried at Georgia National Cemetery can obtain a wreath at the front gate to place on their loved ones’ gravesites Volunteers will place wreaths on the remaining gravesites on 12/13, which will be followed by a formal ceremony honoring our heroes� 3:30pm-sunset family wreath placement on 12/12; 9:00am volunteer wreath placement and approximately 10:30am ceremony on 12/13; Georgia National Cemetery, 101 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton. 678-852-4591. Salty31@hotmail.com. Facebook.com/ GaNational; GANationalCemetery.org
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.
Community Yoga
Classes — Mondays. 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
Dental Insurance Is It Worth It?
By Steven Anderson, DMD
[Healthy Life] The complexities of a routine dental policy can be overwhelming. Here’s a short guide to help you decide if enrolling/reenrolling in a plan is worth it:
Dental Insurance Company Contracts
The insurance company sells you/your employer financial reimbursements for certain dental procedures. This financial agreement is between you and the insurance company. You pay a monthly premium, and the insurance company pays your dentist a predetermined amount for specific dental procedures. In other words, your premium purchases a dental policy that your employer offers.
Each contract has distinct benefit percentages for different procedures. Just because your policy has a “100% benefit” for a procedure does not mean that it will be “free.” It just means that the insurance company will pay its full predetermined amount, which is often less than your dentist’s actual fee. In fact, benefit percentages are applied to the insurance company’s predetermined benefit amount for all procedures, which is not based on your dentist’s actual fees.
The insurance term “usual and customary rate” (UCR) is largely a misnomer and is not even consistent within an insurance company’s own policy offerings or within a geographic region. Each dental insurance company has its own UCR list, which it uses to control how much it must pay a dentist on your behalf. This is how insurance companies control the financial risk of the contract.
You Get What You Pay For
This adage applies toward providing quality care vs. costs and reimbursements associated with individual dental insurance policies.
Dental insurance companies are aware that there are no huge risks for unanticipated
large claims, which is why their premiums are significantly lower than medical insurance premiums. In fact, dental insurance companies cap possible risks by imposing maximum annual payouts (usually $500-$1,500 per customer). Higher premiums usually equate to larger payouts.
Five Ways To Maximize Your Dental Insurance
1. Ask your employer what your monthly premium is. Multiply this number by 12 to determine your annual premium.
2. Research the deductibles you must pay (usually $50-$100) for certain procedures.
3. Estimate your number of dental visits each year. Are you maximizing necessary cleanings and preventative care appointments?
4. Ask your dentist how much the insurance company paid on your behalf in the past year, which will assist you in your comparison efforts.
5. Ask your dentist how much he/she anticipates the insurance company will pay for any necessary prescribed treatment.
This information will help you make an informed decision. Your dental office can help you understand your insurance benefits and limitations. Instead of paying for dental insurance, you may be surprised to learn that it’s financially better to pay yourself a comparable dental premium in a private savings account, use an employer-sponsored Health Savings Account, or check with your dentist to see if he/she offers an in-house dental savings plan. After all, great dentistry is all about you.
Dr. Steven Anderson is the owner and dentist at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb. 650 Claremore Professional Way, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770-384-8505. DrStevenAnderson.com
By Jennifer Paire
Seeing Veins in a New Light
We hear a lot about heart health, blood pressure, and keeping our arteries clear. But veins — the vessels quietly carrying blood back to the heart — rarely get the spotlight.
Board-certified surgeon Dr. Louis Prevosti, nationally recognized for devoting more than 30 years to cardiothoracic surgery and outpatient vein treatment, diagnoses and treats vein disorders with the same precision he brought to heart surgery.
“People tend to lump everything together as blood vessels,” he explained. “But veins and arteries are quite different in composition, function, and the disorders that affect them. Here’s what surprises most people,” he continued. “Your heart only pumps blood in one direction: through your arteries away from the heart. Once that blood reaches your legs, it relies on muscle movement and tiny one-way valves inside your veins to get back up to your heart. When those valves don’t work properly, gravity pulls blood back down your leg, and blood struggles to get back to the heart.”
For many, that struggle shows up as swelling in the ankles, aching or heaviness in the legs, or other symptoms such as night cramps, restless leg, bulging veins, spider veins, or skin changes.
“Venous insufficiency isn’t life-threatening,” he said. “But it can really impact how you feel every day. It’s a quality-of-life issue.”
Understanding Veins
Dr. Prevosti has spent more than 30 years treating the body’s circulatory system. He performed more than 5,000 open-heart operations and 1,000 thoracic operations at Piedmont Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital before developing one of the largest vein clinics in America. He has performed more than 20,000 vein procedures and trained many vein care professionals.
Prevosti Vein Center opened in Canton over the summer and focuses on diagnosing and treating venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and related disorders using modern, minimally invasive techniques. The center also diagnoses and manages blood clots (DVT) as well as lymphedema, which is another cause of leg swelling.
Dr. Prevosti said it’s estimated that 40 million patients have venous insufficiency in the U.S., and 40% of women over 40 have venous insufficiency. Women are two to three times more likely to have it because female hormones and pregnancy can weaken vein valves. When those valves weaken, blood can pool in the lower legs. Over time, that backward flow causes pressure, pain, chronic inflammation, and sometimes visible changes in the skin.
“For veins, it’s not about cholesterol or diet,” Dr. Prevosti notes, although healthy, active lifestyles are still paramount. “Venous disease is mainly caused by genetics and gravity. Family history is the main risk factor, second is female gender, third is jobs where you’re sitting or standing relatively stationary, and fourth is age. The longer we’re on our feet, the longer we live, the more strain those valves experience.”
Evaluation at Prevosti Vein Center begins with a detailed venous ultrasound to map how blood is flowing through the legs. Today’s technology allows abnormal veins to be treated with minimally invasive techniques under local anesthesia.
“These procedures are outpatient. Patients walk out of the office and drive themselves home. Improvement in some cases can be felt within days,” said Dr. Prevosti.
More Than Vanity
While venous insufficiency is not life-threatening like heart disease can be, Dr. Prevosti’s message is straightforward: vein health deserves attention to keep you active and have the best quality of life.
“When you notice ankle swelling, skin itching, redness and discoloration, or that your legs feel heavy and achy — that’s your body asking for help,” Dr. Prevosti emphasized. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Prevosti Vein Center or visit the website.
“What sets Dr. Prevosti apart is not just his decades of experience in this field, but the personality of the man,” shared Jane K., a longtime patient. “He is a ‘detail’ guy. He understands and takes the time to help his patients understand what is going on with the veins in their bodies. I would recommend him with his knowledge and caring manner to anyone who needs help with swelling legs, tired legs, varicose veins, or just ugly veins. These procedures have greatly improved the quality of my life. I’m grateful to Dr. Prevosti for that gift.”
147 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 10 Canton, Georgia 30114 470-567-9047
PrevostiVein.com
(L-R) Terria, Dr. Prevosti, and Casey
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Carmel ES Named State Distinguished School
Carmel ES has been named a Title I Distinguished School for Georgia for the second time in three years� The school is ranked among the top 5% of highestperforming Title I schools statewide to earn the 2025 recognition, which it previously won in 2023� The Georgia Department of Education recognizes K-12 Title I schools for significant progress in improving student achievement
Class of 2026
Graduation Ceremony Schedule
Cherokee HS - May 22 @8:00pm
Creekview HS - May 21 @4:00pm
Etowah HS - May 21 @8:00pm
i-Grad Virtual Academy - May 21 @2:00pm
River Ridge HS - May 22 @4:00pm
Sequoyah HS - May 23 @9:00am
Woodstock HS - May 23 @1:00pm For more information, visit CherokeeK12�net�
SAT Scores Increase, Top Nation and State Cherokee County School District’s SAT scores for the Class of 2025 increased and continue to top national and statewide results The
CCSD Class of 2025 earned an average total score of 1085 on the curriculum-based college entrance and placement exam, according to results released by the College Board� The 2025 score is an increase from 1083 in 2024� The SAT is the most recognized measure of achievement for high school students It includes two 800-point sections: evidencebased reading/writing and mathematics, with a possible total score of 1600; a third section, a writing exam, is optional
Jeep Raffle Supports CCSD High School Athletics, Bands, JROTCs
It’s now easier than ever to support CCSD high school athletic teams, bands, and JROTCs while buying chances to win a Jeep Wrangler! By visiting ShottenkirkChrysler�com/jeepraffle or scanning the QR code below, you can purchase one or multiple $5 tickets online and choose the school and program your donation will benefit� The raffle winner will be selected in a live drawing on March 21, 2026, at Creekview HS� Tickets must be purchased by March 13, 2026�
Cherokee County Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
The FY2026 budget was unanimously approved by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and will provide funding for critical county services without adding new personnel or vehicles for the next year It was developed with no increase in the maintenance and operations millage rate or the fire district rate� The October 7 meeting, during which the budget was approved, was the first for new District 1 Commissioner Will Cagle, who was sworn in earlier that day�
Homeowners with the homestead exemption will not see an increase in their property tax bills for taxes levied by the Board of Commissioners�
Cherokee County’s budget year runs from October 1 to September 30
The $438�6 million budget accounts for 2�1% inflation and assumes other revenue growth, such as permit fees, remains flat It includes both operating funds and capital funds� Operations are funded by property taxes and fees, while capital projects are funded through Special Purpose Location Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds and impact fees�
Construction To Begin on Two New Cherokee County Parks
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a $6 5 million contract for the construction of Woodworth Park in southwest Cherokee County and the Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails near Ball Ground The approval includes a county-controlled contingency of $330,000� The two projects were bid together to help save taxpayer dollars Funding for both projects comes from SPLOST 2018, county tree funds, and impact fees�
The first phase of the 53-acre Woodworth Park, located near the intersection of Highway 92 and Old Alabama Road/Hunt Road, includes a playground, restrooms, flex lawn, trails, parking lots, and entrances for both the public and maintenance Phase one is expected to be completed by fall 2026�
Cherokee Recreation and Parks leadership expects future phases of construction to begin before 2030, which will include a 50,000-square-foot recreation center and senior center, multipurpose athletic fields (baseball, softball, lacrosse, and soccer),
For operations, increased healthcare costs are partly funded by an increase in employee contributions� The operations budget includes 3% cost-of-living adjustments for employees and funding for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office competitive pay program to help recruit and retain qualified deputies�
For capital, the budget includes funding from SPLOST 2012, SPLOST 2018, and SPLOST 2024, totaling $101 million for facilities — including the 94 North Street rehabilitation project, fire stations, the Justice Center expansion, as well as transportation projects�
a splash pad, additional parking, and more nature trails — including a proposed canopy walk through the trees A new RFP will be issued closer to that timeframe, and construction timing depends on the collection of the 2024 SPLOST
In September, the Board also approved the $390,000 purchase of a 1�19-acre parcel on Hunt Road for the future construction of the recreation center and senior center
Woodworth Park is part of the Southwest Cherokee Parks and Trails Plan that was approved in 2021 Its trail network is also included in the Cherokee County Greenways and Trails Master Plan that was approved earlier this year
The Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails, located on Yellow Creek Road at the Etowah River, is a passive park designed to promote outdoor activity through hiking, equestrian, and mountain biking trails� It will also include equestrian primitive campsites and a canoe and kayak launch�
Phase one of the Yellow Creek project will focus on the trailheads and separate parking lots for the mountain bike and equestrian trail users, the park entrance, restroom building, and maintenance building Future plans connect the conservation area to the recently opened Long Swamp Recreation Area by way of the Etowah River Water Trail
The Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails is part of the Northeast Cherokee County Parks Plan approved in May 2022 Its trail network is also included in the 2025 Greenways and Trails Master Plan�
Community
City of Woodstock Begins
Construction on Dupree Road
Trail Project, Streetscapes VI Project, and Neese Road
Northern Segment
Dupree Road Trail Project
This important project will enhance pedestrian access and connectivity in the community by constructing approximately 1,500 linear feet of new sidewalks and trail segments along Dupree Road, filling in gaps where sidewalks currently do not exist Once complete, the trail will provide a continuous connection from Market Street to the eastern side of the I-575 bridge, linking with both the Noonday Creek Trail and existing Cherokee County sidewalks Construction is estimated to be completed by December 17, 2025�
The new trail segments will be 8-10 feet wide and built to ADA standards, with curb, gutter, and drainage improvements included as needed� The project represents a collaborative effort between the City of Woodstock and Cherokee County, closing a critical gap in the pedestrian network and expanding safe connectivity for an estimated 5,000 residents�
Streetscapes VI Project
Phase I construction of the Streetscapes VI
Project, a transformative initiative along Towne Lake Parkway that will extend from Main Street west to 113 Towne Lake Parkway, is underway It is expected to be completed by December 31, 2025�
Streetscapes VI continues the City’s longterm vision of revitalizing key corridors through enhancements that improve safety and accessibility� This phase follows earlier improvements between Main Street and Bentley Parkway, which featured full roadway and streetscape renovations, underground utility relocation, and the integration of the downtown trail system
The current project includes:
• Extension of Streetscape enhancements westward from Main Street
• Pedestrian upgrades including sidewalks, crosswalks, and lighting
• Aesthetic upgrades including landscaping that complements
Woodstock’s downtown character
Motorists can expect temporary construction impacts, including detours and lane closures, as crews work to deliver these improvements� The City will provide regular updates to help the community navigate around the work zone
Neese Road Northern Segment
A Notice to Proceed for the Neese Road
Northern Segment, phase two of a major improvement project modernizing a critical corridor and enhancing safety, connectivity, and mobility in Woodstock, has been issued� This segment is the final piece of a multiphase plan to improve the entire Neese Road corridor, upgrading Neese Road from the Marlowe subdivision north to Arnold Mill Road�
Key features include:
• A new roundabout at the Neese/ Washington/Driftwood intersection, replacing the current inefficient four-way stop
• Sidewalks and multi-modal trails connecting the corridor to Dupree Park, improving walkability and recreation access
• Roadway enhancements designed to improve flow, reduce delays, and support the long-term transportation needs of Woodstock’s growing population
Construction is estimated to be complete in spring 2027 Work will be coordinated to minimize disruption for residents, with traffic advisories issued as needed throughout the construction period
CELEBRATE THE Season of Giving
By Julie Senger
For over a decade, Family Life Magazines has been honored to partner with more than 100 community charities to help raise awareness about their important causes and inspire our readers to get involved and help others by making financial or material contributions or volunteering
their time and talents�
Below is a list of our active community partners During this holiday season of giving (or any time of year!), we hope you will consider helping one or more of the following organizations in any way you can Each one is a certified 501c3 nonprofit, so donations are tax-deductible�
Addiction Recovery Causes
• Hopedealers Worldwide - 770-224-6825, HopeDealersWorldwide com
• No Longer Bound - 770-886-7873, NoLongerBound�com
Animal Causes
• All About Cats Rescue & Adoption 678-235-8585, AllAboutCatsRescue�org
• Angels Among Us 877-404-5874, AngelsRescue org
• Cherokee County Animal Shelter 770-345-7270, CherokeeGa-Animals�org
• Green Pets America Facebook com/gpacharity
• Rock for Rescues RockForRescues�com
• Save the Horses 470-380-3120, SaveTheHorses org
• Wildlife Action 770-924-7464, WildlifeActionGeorgia�org
Arts/Education Causes
• Cherokee County Historical Society/ History Cherokee 770-345-3288, HistoryCherokee�org
• Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282, CherokeeTheatre org
• Cherokee County Educational Foundation 770-704-4213 CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation org
• Distinguished Young Women of GA 229-366-0869
DistinguishedYW�org/ find-your-program/georgia
• Ferst Foundation 706-343-0177, FerstReaders�org
• Matiak Foundation MatiakFoundation com
• Women in Technology 470-264-1780, MyWit�org
• Woodstock Arts 678-494-4251, WoodstockArts�org
Children’s Causes
• 500 Songs for Kids 404-541-9231, SongsForKids�org
• Anna Crawford Children’s Center 678-504-6388, AnnaCrawfordCAC org
• Bend Your Knees/Collins 5K 404-271-1360, BendYourKnees�org
• Cherokee Youth Works (a Cherokee FOCUS program) 770-345-5483, CherokeeFocus�org
Domestic
• The Children’s Haven/CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) 770-345-3274, CherokeeChildrensHaven org
• CURE Childhood Cancer 770-986-0035, CureChildhoodCancer�org
• Easterseals of North GA 404-943-1070 EasterSealsNorthGeorgia org
• Experiences Foundation 678-386-4513
ExperiencesFoundation com
• Give a Kid a Chance 770-345-2737, GiveAKidAChance�org
• Goshen Valley 770-345-9535, GoshenValley org
• Ian’s Friends Foundation 404-966-0752
IansFriendsFoundation�com
• Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club 770-720-7712, BGCMA org/club/mimms
• North Georgia Angel House 770-479-9555, AngelHouseGa�com
• Skye Precious Kids 404-478-9794, SkyePreciousKids org
• St. Baldrick’s 888-899-2253, StBaldricks�org/atlanta
• TEARS Foundation 678-427-1597
TheTearsFoundation�org/Georgia
• Walk for Ferrial 470-572-3297, WalkForFerrial org
Violence/ Sex Crime Awareness and Recovery Causes
• Ahimsa House 404-496-4038, AhimsaHouse org
• Cherokee Family Violence Center 770-479-1804, CFVC�org
• Saprea (formerly The Younique Foundation) 801-901-2474, Saprea org
• She Is Safe 770-552-1400, SheIsSafe�org
Faith-Based Causes
• Art of Living Ministries 770-479-6961, ArtOfLivingMinistries�com
• Bethany Christian Services 770-455-7111, Bethany org/Atlanta
• FCA Cherokee (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) 770-789-7150, CherokeeFCA�org
• Hide and Seek Ministries Day Camp 770-720-0005, HideAndSeekDayCamp net
• HopeQuest Ministry Group 678-391-5950, HopeQuestGroup�org
• The Joy House 706-253-7569, TheJoyHouse org
• Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227, NextStepMinistries�net
• SEEDS/ The Hope Center 770-924-7990, SupportHopeCenter com
• Vision Warriors/War On Addiction 833-894-4357, WarOn�org
• Young Life 470-377-1235 CherokeeCounty YoungLife org
Food Insecurity/Homelessness Causes
• Butterfly Whisper, Inc. - 470-557-4553, Facebook com/groups/butterflywhisper/
• Meals On Wheels - 770-345-5320, CherokeeGa�com/Senior-Services/meals-on-wheels
• MUST Ministries - 770-479-5397, MustMinistries�org/canton
• Never Alone - 770-363-5272, NeverAlone org
• Project Live Love - 404-664-8095, ProjectLiveLove com
Illness-Specific Awareness and Health/Wellness Causes
• Bethesda Community Clinic 678-880-9654, BCCCherokee�com
• Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011, CVIGa org
• Every Link Matters 770-355-2611, EveryLinkMatters�org
• GA Highlands Medical Services 678-807-1050, GHMS-Inc org
• GA Ovarian Cancer Alliance 404-255-1337, GaOvarianCancer org
• GA Transplant Foundation 770-457-3796, GaTransplant�org
• North Georgia Pregnancy Center 706-253-6303, BabyOnTheWay org
• PAMAH Foundation 678-926-9507, PAMAHFoundation�org
• Perfect Harmony Health/ The George Center Foundation 678-965-0993, PerfectHarmonyHealth�com
• Team Maggie’s Dream 678-977-5755, TeamMaggiesDream org
• TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation 770-360-9271, MyTurningPoint�org
Special Needs Causes
• Blake’s House of Independence 470-629-3833 BlakesHouseOfIndependence�com
• Empower Cherokee 770-345-5821, EmpowerCherokee org
• Kathy B. Davis Foundation 615-533-0668, KBDFoundation�net
• Special Needs Respite SpecialNeedsRespite org
Veteran Causes
• Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program 678-983-7590, CherokeeHomelessVets com
• Operation Not Forgotten 678-494-2680, OperationNotForgotten�com
• Cherokee Veterans Community 678-494-2680
CherokeeVeteransCommunity org
• Witness to War 770-481-3018, WitnessToWar�org
Miscellaneous Community Causes
• Cherokee County 911 Foundation 404-395-3454, CherokeeGa-911 org/cc911foundation (supports, advocates for, and advances Cherokee County E 9-1-1)
• Cherokee County Senior Services 770-479-7438, CherokeeGa�com/Senior-Services (seniors)
• Cherokee Fire Foundation CherokeeFireFoundation org
(Assists CCFES employees and other local fire departments in the event of a major medical emergency or life-altering diagnosis for themselves or their immediate family members)
• Community Now, Inc. 678-951-4975, Facebook�com/p/Community-Now-Inc-61555352709013/ (community outreach, food pantries, and youth activity sponsorships)
• Kate’s Club 404-347-7619, KatesClub�org (grief counseling)
• A Second Later 770-331-4834, ASecondLater com (distracted driving awareness)
• Southern Magnolia Charities SouthernMagnoliaCharities�org (fundraises for various charities)
• United Way of Greater Atlanta 404-527-7200, UnitedWayAtlanta org
Woodstock, including Towne Lake
Giving Thanks to the Everyday Heroes Among Us
By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway
During this season of gratitude, let’s take a moment to honor the local heroes who serve our community every day�
These everyday heroes are all around us, patrolling our neighborhoods, walking the halls of our schools, responding to crises over the phone, running fearlessly into burning buildings, and saving lives through emergency medical procedures�
They are our first responders and true heroes.
A life in public safety comes with real sacrifices: missed holidays with loved ones, long and unpredictable shifts, sleepless nights, and the emotional toll of witnessing tragedy, all while giving up precious time with their own families Despite it all, our heroes show up each day with courage, compassion, and commitment
In the past year alone, Cherokee 911 dispatchers have handled:
• 165,294 law enforcement calls
• 33,315 fire and EMS emergencies
The calls are then routed to the appropriate agencies, where trained professionals respond based on the nature of the emergency� Law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs are dispatched to handle violent crimes, medical emergencies, traffic incidents, and other urgent situations�
At the District Attorney’s Office, we work closely with public safety professionals throughout the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases� As firsthand witnesses, they provide vital insights that help build strong cases and, for this reason, they are often
2025 Stats
• In the first nine months of 2025, the District Attorney’s Office opened 1,077 felony cases and closed 1,125, for a closure rate of 104%
• Prosecution teams presented 40 trials, including 37 jury trials and 3 bench trials�
• The juvenile court team opened 454 cases and closed 425
Note: Data shown in this column covers the period from January 1 through September 23, 2025.
called upon to testify during trials Without the evidence and testimony first responders provide, prosecutors cannot effectively represent victims and the State of Georgia in the courtroom
This holiday season, take a moment to express gratitude to the everyday heroes around you A simple smile or a heartfelt “thank you for your service” can mean more than you know� And let’s remember that the peace and safety we enjoy are protected by those who are willing to serve, which comes at their great personal cost
To all Cherokee County first responders: we see you, we value you, and we are deeply grateful for your unwavering dedication
Susan K. Treadaway is the district attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit, Cherokee County, Georgia. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/District-Attorneys-Office
Embracing the Season of Gratitude With a Healthier Twist
By Dr. Norman Colby
[Healthy Life] Amid festive preparations for Thanksgiving dinners and reconnecting with family and friends, the end-of-year hustle makes it easy to forget one important thing to be thankful for: our health�
November is the calm before the whirlwind of December It’s a perfect time to reset priorities, build healthy habits, and prepare your body (and mind) for the winter ahead� From bundling up for brisk outdoor walks to cooking immune-boosting meals, the small choices we make can have a lasting impact�
It’s also worth remembering that wellness is about more than just avoiding illness — it’s about feeling your best, so you can show up
fully for the people and activities you love — that’s where self-care comes in�
This month, consider adding a less-talkedabout form of self-care to your routine: chiropractic care� Cooler weather brings stiffer joints, tighter muscles, and sometimes seasonal stress Chiropractic adjustments help your body function more efficiently, improve posture, and relieve accumulated tension — especially as we spend more time being sedentary indoors Think of it as a seasonal tune-up, keeping your body aligned and your nervous system balanced�
So, as you write down what you’re thankful for this month, don’t forget to add your health to the list — and take steps to protect it�
Dr. Norman Colby is a chiropractor and the owner of Woodstock Chiropractic. 1198 Buckhead Crossing, Unit F, Woodstock. 770-693-7618. WoodstockFamilyChiropractic.com
The Blessings of Life’s Painful Seasons
By Elaine Scott
[InGood Faith] Last November, I had surgery on my knee� My recovery involved being nonweight-bearing and keeping my leg straight for eight weeks, followed by physical therapy Pain was my unwelcome companion By May, the doctor pronounced me “fully recovered�” Elated, I resumed all my old activities, thrilled to have full mobility and independence again
But in early June, I took a fall that resulted in a shattered kneecap and broken femur on that same leg It required two surgeries, eight weeks of being non-weight-bearing, and keeping my leg straight� It was the most miserable, painful kind of déjà vu�
I hated being dependent on others I hated being constrained� I hated that it took forever to do simple tasks� I hated sleeping on my back, unable to move I hated feeling so needy Enduring this once was bad enough, but twice? I didn’t know how I was going to do it again, nor did I want to�
I couldn’t understand why God allowed this So, I reflected on two verses: “Consider it all joy when you encounter various trials,”
(James 1:2), and “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks,” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)� I did not consider this joyful, and I wasn’t thankful
But God, in his great wisdom, produces qualities through the unwanted and painful seasons of our lives that leave us transformed and grateful beyond measure Here are just a few of the qualities I developed:
• Humility - rightly understanding I am not God, and I am fully dependent on him for everything�
• Resilience - the capacity to withstand, adapt, and grow from adversity and trauma rather than being overcome by it
• Compassion - a deeply felt emotion for the suffering of others that compels a desire to help�
• Patience - the ability to endure without complaint, anger, or giving up hope — the result of choosing to trust God�
I am better on the other side of my adversity, and I’m so thankful for that
What about you? What are you thankful for today that you could not have imagined ever being thankful for a year ago? And have you told God yet?
Elaine Scott is the director of Womens Groups at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. 678-525-4851. WoodstockCity.org
Although mixed media collage artist Megan Reeves Williamson’s collages include traditional mixed materials, at the heart of her works are the spines, end sheets, and pages of vintage books Reeves Williamson discovered her love of working with books in 2016 when her cousin, also an artist, invited her to create 15 pieces focused on a single theme�
“I’ve always liked collage I love books; I love reading,” she said� “I love that books could have changed hands so many times There is a lot of good energy in used books — their history, their patina, and I like to add my own energy and give them new life ”
In addition to elements of books, Reeves Williamson uses fabric, colored pencils, production tape, picture frames, and she occasionally stitches thread into the canvas To find books, she visits a public library where, for fifty cents per book, she acquires tomes that no one else wants Back in her studio, she scans the
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Megan Reeves Williamson Breathes New Life Into Vintage Books
books for whatever pops It might be a bookmark or someone’s doodles�
“If it’s the cover, I’ll cut it and put it aside. I save everything. It’s organized chaos,” she said.
Reeves Williamson’s collages not only have depth of color, contrast, and composition, but also allow viewers to imagine the books’ journeys, the shelves where they once lived, and the people who once held them and read them�
With a degree in drawing and painting from UGA, Reeves Williamson began teaching at the elementary level, discovering another passion that she continues to pursue by leading classes at local art centers� Her challenge was to remain creative even after full days of teaching
“When I started teaching, I would go into my studio at night and do anything — maybe just scribbling or tearing paper and collaging it — anything to get that creativity out I realized that ideas can evolve from the making —
then the ideas come out,” she said
Today, she lets her intuition complement her love of composition As she works, she grabs whatever seems to be fitting, which might be a strip of tape or two pages whose colors or shapes contrast�
“I definitely focus on composition,” she said “But I experiment� I’ll try a bunch of layers on one side and leave the other side blank
Her juxtapositions create energy but also calm, and they invite the viewer to imagine the unknown life of each book
“Life is contrast� There’s an interesting energy between contrasts The neutral colors of the books contrasted with hot pink creates energy� Or a vintage photo contrasted with geometric shapes Anything that is opposites — I’m interested in� It’s like looking into yourself, finding things you didn’t know were in you,” she said�
To view more of Reeves Williamson’s work, visit @Juxtaposed_art_studio on Instagram or Facebook.com/juxtaposed art studio.
