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Publisher’s Note | Foundation
Happy 2026! I’ve never really considered myself much of a “goal guy.” That said, over the last few years, I’ve started to realize I may be more goal-oriented than I originally acknowledged — or at least more aware of why goals matter. When most people talk about goals, they’re usually referring to a specific outcome within a specific timeline. In the business world, you’ll often hear about SMART goals — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. And don’t get me wrong, those are great guardrails. They serve a purpose.
For me, though, this idea of focusing first on foundation is something I’ve only come to appreciate more recently — and it’s still a work in progress.
Yes, I have goals — some of them very specific, especially in business — but I’ve learned that goals alone aren’t enough. What matters more is the foundation they’re built on. A foundation rooted in Jesus. A foundation grounded in who you are, your family, your friendships, and the direction you feel called to go.
The start of a new year is a natural time to reassess that foundation. Yep, I went there — the whole “new year, new you” thing. Every January, we try to reinvent ourselves with bold goals and big promises. And if we’re being honest, we all know how that usually goes. Statistically speaking, by the time you’re reading this, most of us have already thrown in the towel on our New Year, New Me goals. Better luck in 2027.
This year, I want to encourage something different. Instead of exhausting yourself trying to come up with the perfect goal — the one you’re absolutely sure you won’t quit — take a moment to examine your foundation. Are you rooted firmly? Is what you’re building your life on strong enough to carry you through both the good seasons and the hard ones?
This issue of Life Around Senoia highlights people who represent that kind of foundation. The Crook family has been tied to Senoia since before it was even called Senoia. Scott and Brent are foundational leaders helping shape our local government for the years ahead. And for us, this marks our first full year of production — a year focused on establishing our foundation in this community we love.
We’re grateful to be on this journey together and thankful for the opportunity to grow alongside you. From our family to yours, we wish you a blessed, meaningful, and fruitful 2026.
God Bless,
Kevin Thompson
Publisher, Life Around Senoia
Publisher
Kevin Thompson
Ad Sales
Blake Adams
Designer
Open Look Business Solutions
Director of Everything Else
Dylan Bayer
Contributors
Jeremy Watkins, Kevin Tuttle, Kristel Thompson
Special Thanks
The Crook Family, Jean Bright, Vera Adair, Brian & Lorey Wetmiller, Branndan Vanegmond, Scott Tigchelaar, Brent Anderson, The Serpico, Madi Collins, Catrina Didier, Margaret Ordoñez, Victoria Haner Photography, Tyler Willis Media, Peek ‘n Click Photography
Cover Photo
Victoria Haner Photography
For Advertising Questions, please email blake@kartpathmedia.com
For Editoral Requests, please email editorial@kartpathmedia.com
KartPath Media Peachtree City, GA
Managing Partners
Chief Kart & Soul Officer, Kevin Thompson
Chief Knock & Talk Officer, Blake Adams
Featured Family
SA Family Whose Values Helped Shape a Town — and Still Do Today
ome families leave a mark on a town. Others become part of its foundation. In Senoia, the Crook family is the latter — a name woven quietly but deeply into the character of the community. Their story isn’t just about businesses that have lasted nearly a century; it’s about the values behind them.
Hard work. Integrity. Faith. Service. The kind of values that build families — and towns.
For Ellis Crook, those values weren’t abstract ideas. They were a way of life. Born just a stone’s throw from where he lives now,
Ellis grew up in a home where work wasn’t optional and caring for people wasn’t a task — it was what you did. His father, Arry Lee, believed that the best legacy a man could leave wasn’t money or success but character. Ellis absorbed that fully. And Senoia benefited from it for decades to come.
Photo Credit: Victoria Haner Photography
The Store That Built Community
When the Crook family opened their grocery in the 1913, it quickly became more than a store. It was the place where people gathered, talked, shared news, and checked on one another. Kids got snacks, families picked up dinner, and neighbors
found community. If something happened in town, the Crooks knew about it — not out of curiosity, but because people trusted them.
That trust followed Ellis everywhere he went. Whether serving on boards,
helping families in need, or simply offering encouragement to someone having a hard day, he carried himself with a quiet steadiness. He didn’t have to say much (though most often he still did); people simply knew he was someone you could count on.
His daughter Cheryl remembers it perfectly:
“Dad didn’t just talk about values — he lived them. Every single day.”
A Legacy Carried Forward
Those same values didn’t stop with Ellis. They became the heartbeat of his children.
Cheryl embodies the Crook creed of hard work, humility, and caring for people. She grew up watching her father live these principles consistently, whether at the store,
in the community, or at home. Today, she carries that same spirit — loving people deeply, serving quietly, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
Ellis’ son, Greg, reflects that same legacy in the businesses he operates today. After graduating from Auburn University, he returned home with one purpose in mind — to help his father run and grow the Crook family enterprises. What began with handwritten loan notes, attached to a pressboard laying on top of a buggy inside of Crooks Market Place eventually evolved into McIntosh Finance, which Greg now leads with the same principles his father instilled: fairness, dignity, and truly listening to people. In addition to McIntosh Financial Greg oversees all of the Crook businesses’ day-to-day. Greg didn’t simply step into his father’s business — he made it his life’s mission to carry his father’s legacy forward.
He puts it simply:
“Serving this community is just what we do. It’s who we are.”
Values That Still Shape Senoia What makes the Crook family’s influence so special is that it’s still visible today — not just in buildings, businesses, or old photographs, but in the very spirit of Senoia.
You see it in the way people greet each other downtown.
You hear it in the conversations inside local shops.
You feel it in the connectedness that defines this town.
Much of that culture — that closeness, that warmth, that sense of community — exists because families like the Crooks built it over generations.
Their legacy is not measured in profit or property. It’s measured in people.
In the neighbors they helped.
In the friendships they formed.
In the values they passed down — values that still shape Senoia today.
A Family Whose Story Is Senoia’s Story
Ask anyone who knows Ellis, Cheryl, or Greg, and you’ll hear the same thing:
The Crooks take care of people.
The Crook family’s roots stretch back to this land long before Senoia was even called Senoia. Their lineage traces to the early settlers who arrived after the Georgia Land Lottery expanded the western frontier, establishing homesteads, farms, and the quiet beginnings of what would one day become our town. Through every generation since, the Crooks have played a part — shaping community life, building businesses, and modeling the values that helped give Senoia its character. Their presence is woven into the fabric of this place, so much so that imagining Senoia without the Crooks feels impossible — and truthfully, we’re not sure we’d want to know what that version of Senoia would look like.
And in a town built on connection, kindness, and community — that makes the Crook family not just part of Senoia’s history, but part of its heart.
To read more of the Crook story, you may contact the Senoia Area Historical Society (SAHS) for a copy Ellis’ book Senoia Boy, all proceeds go to support the SAHS.
Our Father’s House
More Than a Program — A Family That Walks Alongside Families
For more than two decades, Our Father’s House has been quietly shaping lives in Senoia — not through flashy programs or short-term fixes, but through relationships built on trust, consistency, and love. What began roughly 23 years ago as a simple tutoring effort has grown into something far deeper: a place where children and families are known, supported, and walked alongside through every season of life.
Founded by Linda Stankovich of Crossroads Church, Our Father’s House began when she simply saw a need and stepped in. Her initial focus was helping children succeed academically, but it quickly became clear that tutoring alone wasn’t enough. Families needed support. Children needed consistency. Parents needed someone willing to walk with them, not just offer solutions. Linda invited four families to help shoulder the work — and two of those families remain actively involved today.
Among them were Jean Bright and Vera Adair. At the time, Jean and Vera were meeting regularly in the park, praying and asking God where He was calling them to serve. When they heard about an informational meeting for Our Father’s House, they attended — and never left. Shortly after they joined, Linda stepped aside, allowing volunteers like Jean and Vera to help lead and expand the mission. Today, nearly two decades later, Our Father’s House is walking alongside parents who were once children in the original tutoring program — now supporting second-generation families.
From the beginning, the mission has been rooted in Jesus and grounded in relationship. That foundation has never changed.
While speaking with Branndan Vanegmond, the conversation paused so she could place an order for five chicken sandwiches — she was on her way to pick up five young men for basketball practice. It
was a perfect picture of Our Father’s House in motion.
Raised in neighboring Sharpsburg and married to a husband who grew up downtown, Branndan describes volunteering as simply part of who her family is. With more than 30 years in and out of the classroom, working with children in a variety of settings, her roots run deep. An alumna of East Coweta High School, Branndan now finds herself teaching, mentoring, and walking alongside children whose parents and grandparents she once taught — giving her a uniquely layered connection to the families she serves.
Branndan first connected with Our Father’s House while homeschooling her own children, looking for meaningful ways to teach them service and compassion. Over time, her involvement grew naturally — reaching out during the holidays, opening her home on Friday nights, and
extending hospitality she describes simply as evangelism. Today, she mentors families she once knew in the classroom, now walking alongside their children in a new season of life — proof that at Our Father’s House, relationships don’t end, they evolve.
A Place Where Kids Are Known
Today, Our Father’s House serves children K–12, providing tutoring, mentorship, and a safe place to land when life feels overwhelming. On any given afternoon, kids can stop in for a snack, work through homework with a mentor, or simply have space to breathe after a hard day at school.
But this isn’t a quiet tutoring center. It’s a place filled with laughter, movement, and life — kids playing football or soccer, learning teamwork, burning energy, and simply being kids. For many, it’s the one place where they know someone is always happy to see them.
And when a child is having a hard day — emotionally, socially, or spiritually — Our Father’s House is there. Sometimes that looks like homework help. Sometimes it looks like prayer. And sometimes it simply looks like sitting beside a child and letting them know they’re not alone.
Walking With Parents, Too
While Our Father’s House is centered on serving children, the care doesn’t stop there. In many cases, that support naturally extends to parents as well — walking alongside entire families as they navigate life together.
Families receive life coaching and support in areas like financial planning, spiritual growth, emotional health, and relationships. Mentors partner closely with parents, building trust and working together to support the whole family unit. That partnership is key — and it’s one of the reasons the organization has been able to create lasting change.
As Lorey Wetmiller shared, “This only works because of the trust placed in us by the mothers of these families. We walk with them — not over them.”
Learning to Dream, Learning to Lead
In 2025, Our Father’s House entered a season of greater structure — strengthening the foundation built through years of relationship. Mondays became intentional meeting days, focused on life skills that extend far beyond schoolwork.
Kids learn how to speak confidently, make eye contact, show respect, and carry themselves with dignity. They talk about dreams, goals, faith, and the kind of people they want to become. They practice interview skills, explore vocational paths, and learn to believe they are worthy of where they’re headed — not just where they’ve been.
The results have been transformational. School principals have noticed, with one sharing that several students connected to Our Father’s House have made complete 180-degree turnarounds — kids once labeled as problematic are now thriving, focused, and growing in confidence.
The Power of “The One”
Mentors at Our Father’s House are taught to be “the one.”
The one who answers the phone.
The one who shows up.
The one who steps in when no one else can.
For many children, there simply isn’t someone to call when life goes sideways — when a bike tire is flat, when a car breaks down, or when they need help getting to practice or work. Mentors step into those gaps physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
That’s why this program feels less like a service — and more like family.
A Home at Last
After 23 years of operating out of donated and shared spaces, Our Father’s House received a building of its own in October 2025 — a milestone that marked more than growth. It marked permanence.
For the first time, the organization has a true home — a place where families know they belong, where kids can walk in without
hesitation, and where the mission can continue to grow. The building represents stability, commitment, and God’s provision — a physical reminder that this work matters and is here to stay.
Stories That Come Full Circle
Perhaps the most powerful testament to the impact of Our Father’s House is Keekee’s story. One of the very first children to receive tutoring through the program, KeeKee is now a board member, and her own nephews are receiving the same love and support she once did.
That kind of full-circle moment only happens when relationships are built to last.
More Than Help — A Family
Lorey and Brian Wetmiller have been involved with Our Father’s House for more than eight years, and their home often feels like an extension of the program itself. Kids stop by for help, to play, or simply to be around someone who cares. Brian is often found outside pumping up bike tires or balls — small acts that speak volumes.
“It’s common for people to say, ‘Oh, you’re the house with all the kids outside,’” Lorey shared.
No two weeks look the same — because families don’t need cookie-cutter solutions. They need people willing to walk alongside them through the ups and downs.
That’s what Our Father’s House does best. Rooted in Jesus.
Centered on family.
Committed for the long haul.
OFH Needs
As Our Father’s House continues to grow, so does the need for people willing to step in and walk alongside more families. The heart of this mission has always been built on mentors — individuals and couples who are willing to show up consistently, share the love of Jesus, and open their lives to others. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about being present, building trust, and welcoming new families as part of your own. For those feeling a nudge to serve in a deeper, more relational way, Our Father’s House offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact — one family, one relationship, and one faithful step at a time.
OFH TEAM
Jean Bright – Executive Co-Director
Vera Adair – Executive Co-Director
Brian Wetmiller – Director of Youth, Chairman of the Board
Branndan Vanegmond – Program Director
Lorey Wetmiller – Director of Family and Community Engagement
For more information or to get involved call Lorey Wetmiller 678-687-5606 or visit www.ourfathershousesenoia.org.
BEFORE THE OFFICE, THERE WERE THE PEOPLE
Meeting Scott Tigchelaar and Brent Anderson at the Start of Their Service
OnNovember 4, 2025, Senoia elected a new mayor and a new city councilman. But before the titles, before the oaths, and before the first meetings, Scott Tigchelaar and Brent Anderson were already familiar faces around town — neighbors who had been quietly investing their time, energy, and hearts into the community they love.
This moment marks the beginning of their official service, but not the beginning of their connection to Senoia. Long before ballots were cast, both men had been showing up — building, serving, listening, and helping shape the town in ways that had nothing to do with politics and everything to do with people.
That shared foundation is what makes their story worth telling now — not as policymakers, but as individuals stepping
into leadership with deep roots already planted.
Finding Home in an Unexpected Place
Scott Tigchelaar’s path to Senoia didn’t begin with city hall — it began with curiosity and a pull toward something different. Growing up in Canada, Scott was always drawn to the American South and the pace of life that came with it. He jokes now that he was voted “most likely to become American,” a line that feels fitting given where life eventually led him — even if it wasn’t an official yearbook title.
He first arrived in Georgia in the early 1990s, working alongside his uncles at Riverwood Studios — then the only movie studio in the state. After several years in the film industry, changing international
incentives pulled production back to Canada, and Scott returned north. But Georgia never quite let go.
In 2003, Scott came back with his young family and a vision — not for office, but for place. He wanted to raise his children somewhere that felt personal, grounded, and connected. Partnering with industry leaders, he played a role in helping revive Georgia’s film industry, which would eventually help place Senoia on a global stage.
At the same time, Scott noticed something closer to home.
Downtown Senoia was fragile.
“There were only a handful of businesses on Main Street,” Scott recalls. He describes it as looking like a toothless smile — solid
Photo Credit: Tyler Willis Media, Inc
buildings with noticeable gaps where life should have been. Vacant parcels dotted downtown, and at one point, the most serious development proposal was a Dollar General at the entrance to Main Street.
Many years prior, longtime residents successfully fought to reroute Highways 16 and 85 around downtown — a pivotal decision that avoided state highway types of development and helped preserved Senoia’s character. Fast forward to 2007, Scott’s family was able to purchase 22 vacant parcels and engage a classical architectural firm to re-create a blueprint for downtown — not just for buildings, but for how the town should feel
Scott never set out to be a developer, and he has never developed anywhere else. He simply stepped in during a critical moment to help guide growth in a way that honored Senoia’s history rather than replacing it.
“You can’t stop growth,” Scott says. “You can only shape it.”
That belief continues to guide him as he begins this new chapter of service.
A Life Built on Connection
Brent Anderson’s journey to leadership followed a different road — but arrived at the same destination.
After years working as a home builder in Henry County, Brent felt called in 2008 to take over a church in Senoia, despite having no formal background in vocational
ministry. For eight years, he led with a simple question at the center of everything he did: How do we connect people?
He focused on relationships over programs, presence over performance. Over time, his heart for people expanded beyond the church walls and into the broader community.
When the church closed in 2016, the story didn’t end — it transformed. That same building became home to i58 Mission, an organization now serving families across Coweta County and beyond.
A year earlier, Brent and his wife had taken another leap of faith, purchasing Senoia Coffee. Neither had experience running a coffee shop. What they did have was a vision.
Brent saw the space not simply as a business, but as a modern front porch — a place where people could gather, talk, and feel known. Over the years, Senoia Coffee became exactly that. All four of Brent’s children worked there during their formative years, learning not just how to make coffee, but how to care for people.
“This is our place,” Brent says. “And these are our people.”
Rooted, Not Passing Through
Both Scott and Brent share a quiet gratitude for building full lives without having to leave.
Scott’s commute spans just a few blocks. His children went off to college and came back. His family roots have grown deeper with each passing year, and his first grandchild is on the way.
Brent and his wife raised their four children in Senoia. Their family rhythms — school, work, faith, business, and community — all unfolded within the same familiar streets.
That rootedness isn’t accidental. It’s the result of a town shaped intentionally — and by people willing to invest for the long haul.
Stepping Into Service
Neither man ever set out to run for office. In fact, both resisted the idea initially. But
over time, they felt a responsibility to step forward — not to change Senoia, but to help protect what makes it special.
Their election in November marks the beginning of a new chapter, one they approach with humility and gratitude. They see the next several years as an important season for Senoia — a time when momentum from community events, small businesses, and neighborhood connections can continue to flourish if guided thoughtfully.
Their focus isn’t policy first — it’s people first.
Growth will come. It always does. But both believe it can be shaped in a way that preserves Senoia’s personality, honors its history, and strengthens its sense of community.
“We’re honored,” Scott says, “to help steward what’s next.”
And that’s the heart of this story.
At the start of their service, Senoia isn’t being led by strangers. It’s being led by neighbors — two men who planted roots long before they ever took office, and who now step forward to serve the town they already call home.
Not as politicians. But as people.
Building Strong Foundations Image Fitness and the Heart of Senoia-Brooks
Here in the Senoia and Brooks areas— where historic charm meets Georgia's rolling landscapes—Image Fitness stands as a prime example of enduring strength and community spirit. Founded in 2007 by Mr. Don and Chad Shepard, the gym quickly became Brooks' go-to fitness spot. Nestled in the tranquil town of Brooks, just a short drive from Senoia's bustling downtown, it offered more than just weights and treadmills. The Shepards envisioned a space where locals could access straightforward, effective workouts that fostered lasting habits. Amid the serene vibe of Brooks, with its tree-lined streets and close-knit neighborhoods, Image Fitness became a daily ritual for many—whether it was parents squeezing in a session before school drop-offs or weekend warriors pushing their limits. This foundation not only built physical resilience but also wove itself into the fabric of everyday life, mirroring the steady growth of our region from quiet farmlands to thriving communities.
By 2019, the gym entered an exciting new era when Jeremy and Ashley took the reins, reestablishing Image Fitness with fresh innovations. They infused the space with knowledgeable staff, state-of-the-art InBody scans for precise body composition analysis, and personalized coaching programs designed to meet individual goals. This revival wasn't just a facelift; it
sparked remarkable growth, expanding membership and impact across Senoia and Brooks. Residents flocked to the gym for its supportive gym community, blending rigorous training with practical nutrition guidance to help people transform their lives. Stories from members highlight this: a busy Senoia professional shedding stress through yoga classes, or a Brooks family turning workouts into bonding time. Image Fitness proves that consistent effort in health can ripple outward, empowering families and athletes to thrive. Just as sturdy roots support our area's iconic historic homes—many dating back to the 19th century—and lively events, the gym underscores that everything strong grows from a reliable base, nurtured over time.
What makes Image Fitness truly special is its role in weaving personal wellness into the broader community tapestry. In Senoia and Brooks, participation is key—showing up for events, supporting neighbors, and contributing to shared goals creates bonds that help everyone grow stronger together. Tie your fitness journey to local life for even greater rewards. For outdoor enthusiasts, hit the Riverside Trail today—or any day—for a refreshing hike. This scenic path along the Flint River connects body and nature, offering miles of trails where you can practice foundational movements like brisk walking or even bodyweight exercises amid
the fresh air. It's a reminder that wellness extends beyond gym walls, integrating seamlessly with our area's natural beauty.
As we navigate the new year in 2026, Image Fitness remains a beacon for those ready to invest in themselves and their surroundings. With its roots firmly planted in Brooks and branches reaching into Senoia, the gym invites you to build your own path to vitality. Visit Image Fitness today to start your foundation—strong starts lead to endless growth in our vibrant Senoia-Brooks community. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, remember: progress happens when we commit, connect, and keep moving forward together.
Diet Basics: Track calories (e.g., 2,000/ day for moderate activity). Macros: Protein 1.6-2.2g/kg body weight; Carbs 45-65%; Fats 20-35%.
Exercise & Stretch: Warm up with a jog. Stretch: Hamstring reach (hold 20-30s); Child's pose. Consistency: 10 mins daily builds resilience.
Start 2026 with Professional Outdoor Lighting & Irrigation
Beat the spring rush — lock in faster scheduling and priority service.
Protect your lawn early — get irrigation tuned before growth season begins.
Boost curb appeal with warm, energy-efficient outdoor lighting.
Prevent costly repairs — find and fix winter irrigation issues before they damage your lawn.
Secret Sauce
FINDING FOUNDATIONS IN COMMUNITY
By Kevin Tuttle
Every so often, we encounter something that makes us pause and think, “Wow, there’s something different here.” That moment sparks curiosity: What makes this so unique? What are the ingredients that make it so good? When we peel back the layers, we often discover core elements that form a strong foundation—because the foundation matters. It’s what everything else is built upon.
Why Foundations Matter
Our lives are shaped by many influences: our past, heritage, family, education, experiences, and beliefs. From these, we choose what will become our foundation— the principles we build our lives on. A strong foundation provides stability and direction, while a weak one can leave us vulnerable to life’s storms. Sometimes, we realize that what we started with isn’t as solid as we thought. It may be uneven, weak, or poorly constructed. When that happens, we pause, reevaluate, and make
adjustments to ensure our foundation is level, true, and strong.
Senoia’s Secret Strength
In Senoia, you’ll find a community built on deep roots of faith and shared values. Many local churches help people grow spiritually and strengthen their sense of purpose. At ONE Church, you’ll often hear the phrase: “We Have ONE God, We Serve ONE Mission, We Are ONE Church.” This foundation isn’t just about religion—it’s about a faith that is alive, growing, and grounded in truth. Not shifting sand, but solid rock.
But faith is only one part of the story. Senoia’s foundation also includes strong family ties, a commitment to education, and a culture of neighborly support. These elements work together to create resilience—a quality that makes this community stand out. When challenges arise, whether economic, social, or personal, the strength of these roots helps people weather the storm.
The Ripple Effect
A strong foundation doesn’t just shape individual lives; it strengthens families and, in turn, the entire community. This resilience creates a place where people can thrive. Businesses flourish because trust runs deep. Schools succeed because families are engaged. Visitors feel welcome because hospitality is woven into the culture.
As a Chinese proverb reminds us: “If the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” When our foundations are strong, growth becomes healthy and sustainable—for those who live here and for those who visit. It’s a reminder that what we build today will shape tomorrow.
Your Foundation Matters
So, what about you? What is your foundation? Is it strong enough to support the life you want to build? If not, maybe it’s time to pause, reevaluate, and make adjustments. Because when the roots are deep—whether in faith, family, or shared values—there’s no reason to fear the wind.
Photo Credit: Peek ‘n Click Photography
Pet of the Month
If there’s one thing Donut knows for sure, it’s this: she is adored — and rightfully so.
Donut is an 8-year-old mini horse with a personality bigger than most full-sized farms. She was gifted by grandparents Greg and Sandy Webb as a special surprise for their growing crew of grandkids — DJ and Dak Serpico, Allie and Maddie Webb, and
a whole cast of loving kids (and adults!) who now consider her part of the family. Before joining the Webb farm, Donut lived in a small fenced yard. These days, she enjoys wide open space, endless attention, and a schedule packed with snacks, brushing sessions, and admiration.
Her name may have come with her, but no one could imagine a better fit. “Donut”
perfectly captures her sweet, playful spirit — and the kids agree it’s the best name a pony could ever have.
When Donut runs, her mane flows dramatically behind her, earning her a welldeserved reputation as a real-life unicorn. She’s convinced she’s magical… and honestly, no one around her is arguing. Her size makes her just right for hopping on
and riding around the yard, and the family jokes that she’s basically a giant dog — just with hooves and a fabulous mane.
Donut also happens to be highly treatmotivated. If snacks are involved, she’ll stretch her head as far through the fence as physically possible, smiling the entire time to be sure she doesn’t miss out. Spoiled? Absolutely — and proudly so. The kids love
helping with chores, brushing her coat, and making sure she gets all the attention she can handle.
Beyond the laughs and photo-worthy moments, Donut has brought something truly special to the farm. She keeps the family’s big horse company and has even helped their rescue donkey come out of her shell. Thanks to Donut, the once-shy
donkey now approaches people and eats treats by hand — a small but meaningful victory.
Around the Webb farm, Donut isn’t just a pet. She’s a princess pony, a peacemaker, and a daily reminder that sometimes the smallest animals bring the biggest joy.
Young Achiever Feature
At just 17 years old, Madi Collins is already proving that age is no barrier when talent, discipline, and encouragement come together. A junior at KONOS Academy, Madi has quietly built a growing art business—one that began not with a business plan, but with curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try.
Madi has been painting for roughly four years and selling her work for the past two. Long before her first booth or first sale, her creative spark was obvious. As a child, she and her best friend, Hailey Bayer, could spend hours—sometimes entire summer days—building intricate LEGO creations. Her parents, Jeff and Lauren, recognized early on that Madi’s creativity was wired deep; they just didn’t know yet where it would lead.
A pivotal moment came when the Collins family volunteered with Lighthouse Family Retreats, a nonprofit serving families navigating childhood cancer. As part of the experience, Jeff and Lauren asked Madi and her sister, Mabry, to write donation request letters. After returning from the retreat, thank-you notes followed—but Madi added something extra: a painting.
That simple gesture changed everything.
After receiving the “thank you painting” one family insisted on paying for another piece, with one condition—the money had to be reinvested into Madi’s art. What began as a heartfelt thank-you became a realization: her creativity could both bless others and grow into something meaningful. Not long after, Madi told her parents she didn’t want a traditional job. She wanted to sell her art.
Curious and eager to learn, Madi reached out to another local artist—not to sell, but simply to ask questions about watercolor paints. That curiosity led her to Alive After Five, where she shared her first booth. Since then, she has displayed and sold her work at Alive After Five and various other events throughout Fayette and Coweta County.
While the artwork draws people in, the journey behind the booth has been just as formative. Learning how to be a vendor— interacting with customers, explaining her pieces, pricing her work, managing sales, bookkeeping, and administrative tasks— has helped Madi grow in confidence and maturity. Her parents say watching her navigate both the creative and business sides of art has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
Madi primarily works in watercolor, with acrylics and emerging textured pieces rounding out her portfolio. Each piece she sells is packaged with a Bible verse, reflecting the faith that anchors her work. She markets her work through Instagram and local events, and handles the business side herself.
Beyond art, Madi stays busy with volleyball and beach volleyball, is active in youth group at ONE Church, and already has her eyes on the future. Her long-term goal is to pursue interior design, with hopes of incorporating her artwork into future design projects.
Madi’s advice to other young people is simple: don’t give up. Practice matters. Repetition matters. Improvement opens doors you never expected.
In a community that celebrates creativity, opportunity, and connection, Madi Collins is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful journeys begin with a willing heart, a blank canvas, and the courage to try.
To see more of Madi’s work and get in contact with her, visit her Instagram: @paintingsbymadichristine
Downtown Mardi Gras Celebration
Date: Saturday, February 7, 6-8pm
Location: Main Street
Come out downtown and keep the Mardi Gras celebration rolling! We’ll be gathering at the end of Main Street for an evening of music, dancing, and community fun with Rhythm Major, the nine-piece brass band that brought the house down at PorchFest last year. With big sound, bold energy, and plenty of brass, Rhythm Major knows how to turn a street into a party. Bring your friends, grab a spot, and let the good times roll as we celebrate together in true Senoia style.
Alive After Five
Date: Friday, April 17th 5-9pm
Location: Main Street
Alive After Five is back for 2026, and Main Street is ready to come alive once again. Join us downtown for evenings filled with live music, great food, local vendors, and the kind of community atmosphere that makes Senoia special. Whether you’re catching up with neighbors, discovering a new favorite band, or just enjoying the energy of Main Street after hours, Alive After Five is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Mark your calendar and come be part of a Senoia tradition that brings everyone together.
Senoia Farmer’s Market
Date: Saturday, March 21 8:30am-1pm
Location: 40 Travis Street, Senoia, GA 30276
The Senoia Farmers Market is returning for the season, bringing fresh flavors and local favorites back to downtown. Stroll through as farmers, makers, and artisans share everything from seasonal produce to handcrafted goods. It’s the perfect way to start your day, connect with neighbors, and support the local businesses that help our community thrive. Come hungry, stay awhile, and enjoy a Senoia tradition that’s as much about community as it is about what’s in your basket.
Senoia Beer Company
Every Tuesday - Trivia
Every Wednesday - Bingo
1st & 3rd Thursday - Open Mic Night
Downtown Senoia’s New Scavenger Hunt
Whatstarted as a casual lunch with her daughter at Maguire’s Family & Friends has turned into one of downtown Senoia’s most charming new adventures.
While sitting inside the restaurant, local artist Catrina Didier couldn’t help but notice the iconic red brick that gives downtown its character. A simple thought crossed her mind: What if there was a mouse painted somewhere in town? The idea stuck. After lunch, she took a walk to the Senoia Welcome Center, where she happened to run into Melissa Quinn. Before she knew it, the idea had grown legs — or rather, tiny painted paws.
Imagine this: hand-painted mice hidden throughout downtown retail shops, a map to guide you, and a scavenger hunt that encourages visitors to explore, shop, and
enjoy Main Street at a slower pace. Melissa loved the concept and encouraged Catrina to flesh it out and share it with members of the Downtown Development Authority. Before long, the Downtown Senoia Mouse Hunt was officially in motion.
Here’s how it works: stop by the Senoia Welcome Center to pick up an activity booklet and map, then begin your hunt. Follow the clues, search participating shops, and track down each painted mouse. Once you’ve found them all, return your completed booklet to the Welcome Center to receive a prize. It’s simple, interactive, and perfect for families, visitors, and locals alike.
Beyond the fun, the Mouse Hunt also carries a deeper purpose. Catrina is both an artist and a missionary who believes her
God-given talent should be used to serve others. Her work can be seen locally at New Vision Church in Fayetteville, as well as internationally at a mental health facility in El Salvador. She’s currently preparing to create a piece at an orphanage in India.
The Mouse Hunt was designed not only to bring joy to downtown Senoia, but also to help support Catrina’s mission work. Through merchandise sales tied to the hunt, she hopes to raise funds that allow her to continue using art as a way to spread hope and encouragement.
So next time you’re downtown, keep your eyes open — you never know where a little mouse might be hiding. Sometimes the best ideas come from slowing down, looking around, and letting creativity lead the way.
Photo Credit: Catrina Didier
Keeping Senoia’s Story Alive
Every town has a story. In Senoia, that story isn’t tucked away in dusty books or forgotten buildings — it’s carefully preserved, shared, and celebrated by a group of neighbors who believe the past still matters.
The Senoia Area Historical Society exists to secure, preserve, and promote the social and cultural history of our community. But at its heart, the Society isn’t just about dates and documents — it’s about people. The families who built the town. The places that shaped it. And the volunteers who ensure those stories are passed down, not lost to time.
How It All Began
The roots of the Senoia Area Historical Society stretch back to 1976, when a group of local residents came together to celebrate the nation’s Bicentennial. When the festivities ended, there was just $55.89 left in the budget — not much by any measure. But instead of letting it disappear, that small remainder became the seed money for something lasting.
In 1977, those same townspeople chose to invest in preserving Senoia’s history. The Society officially incorporated in 1980, and over the years, its members took on the
kind of behind-the-scenes work that rarely gets applause but leaves a permanent mark. Their efforts helped secure Senoia’s Historic District designation on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 — a milestone that continues to protect the town’s character today.
A Home for History
In 1990, the Society purchased the historic Carmichael home at 6 Couch Street, a beautiful structure dating back to the 1870s. Built by the McKnight family, the home blends architectural styles with strong Gothic Revival influences and sits squarely within Senoia’s Historic District.
Decades after the original vision was formed, that dream became reality. On July 18, 2010 — a bright summer day — the Senoia Area History Museum officially opened its doors. Since then, it has welcomed visitors every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, staffed entirely by friendly, knowledgeable volunteers who love sharing the stories of the town they call home.
Inside, visitors will find artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia that bring Senoia’s past to life — reminders that the town’s charm didn’t happen by accident.
More Than a Museum
The Senoia Area Historical Society is an active, living part of the community. Monthly meetings are open to the public and often feature guest speakers who add depth and perspective to local history.
Fundraising events like barn dances and annual auctions are designed to be as fun as they are meaningful, reflecting the Society’s belief that history should be engaging, not intimidating.
Beyond events, the Society hosts storytelling programs, genealogical seminars, and other enrichment opportunities that invite people of all ages to connect with the past — and with one another.
An Invitation to Be Part of the Story
You don’t have to live in Senoia to join the Senoia Area Historical Society. Membership is open to anyone who values history, preservation, and community. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a newcomer, or simply someone who appreciates small-town stories, there’s a place for you here.
Because preserving Senoia’s history isn’t just about honoring what was — it’s about understanding who we are, and ensuring future generations know the stories that shaped the town they love.
To learn more, visit the History Museum at 6 Couch Street, stop by during weekend hours, or explore upcoming events and membership opportunities through the Senoia Area Historical Society.
Historical information provided by the Senoia Area Historical Society and sourced from their official website.
