TOGETHER WITH
Good morning, Forsyth County.
I hope 2026 is off to a wonderful start for you and your loved ones.
This week brings bittersweet news alongside exciting opportunities. Many of you have already heard about the devastating fire that destroyed Mercy Fellowship Church near the Cumming Fairgrounds early Thursday morning. This 125-year-old landmark held generations of memories for countless families - weddings, christenings, Sunday mornings that shaped lives. While the building is gone, the spirit of that congregation endures, and I know our community will rally around them.
On a brighter note, our libraries are back in full swing with an incredible lineup of programming. From magical poodle performances to family game nights, Dungeons & Dragons sessions to adult craft workshops, there's truly something for everyone this week. It's a perfect time to discover (or rediscover) all the free resources our Forsyth County Public Library system offers.
And don't forget, if you still have a Christmas tree taking up space, the "Bring One for the Chipper" recycling program runs through the end of January.
Here's to a year of community, connection, and all the things that make Forsyth County home.
- Chad
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THE DIGEST
Fire destroys 125-year-old historic church in downtown Cumming
A pre-dawn fire on January 2 completely destroyed Mercy Fellowship Church, a historic landmark near the Cumming Fairgrounds that had served the community for 125 years. A Cumming police officer discovered the blaze around 2:30 AM at 133 Dogwood Street. The sanctuary, classrooms, and offices are a total loss, with the steeple collapsing during the fire. Thankfully, no one was injured. Fire investigators are working to determine the cause, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses. Church leaders have not yet announced plans for Sunday services or rebuilding efforts.
County commissioners reject annexation request for 112-home development
Forsyth County commissioners voted to object to the City of Cumming's annexation request for a residential development that would have added 112 homes. The proposed project by The Providence Group sought to bring the property into city limits. The decision reflects the county's ongoing focus on managing growth, coming amid an extended residential application moratorium. The moratorium, which the commission extended to June 2, 2026, temporarily pauses certain residential development applications while officials work on comprehensive growth management strategies.
Polo Fields Park master plan to be unveiled January 14
Forsyth County Parks & Recreation will present the draft master plan for Polo Fields Park at a public meeting on Wednesday, January 14, from 5-7 PM at Midway Park Community Building (5100 Post Road). The 39-acre property at 6050 Majors Road currently hosts youth soccer programs serving over 2,200 players. Based on community feedback from Fall 2025 surveys, potential improvements include turf soccer fields, parking upgrades, an amphitheater, tennis and pickleball courts, a dog park, and meandering trails. Residents can provide input at the meeting or online beginning January 14.
Christmas tree recycling continues
Keep Forsyth County Beautiful invites residents to recycle their Christmas trees through the annual "Bring One for the Chipper" program, running through January 31. Drop-off locations include three county recycling convenience centers: Tolbert Street (351 Tolbert St), Old Atlanta (3678 Old Atlanta Rd), and Coal Mountain (3560 Settingdown Rd), open 7:30 AM - 5 PM daily except Sundays. Trees are converted into mulch or placed in Lake Lanier as fish habitat. Free wood chips are available year-round at Coal Mountain Park for residents who bring their own containers.
Adoptable Dog of the Week
Kipper - Female - 8 Years Old
Forsyth County Pet Adoption & Resource Center (PARC)
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’
Monday
Michelle’s Magical Poodles
When: Monday, January 5 | 11 AM - 11:45 AM & 2 PM - 2:45 PM
What: Enjoy fun and quirky dog tricks with an educational twist! This family-friendly performance features talented poodles and their amazing trainer. Perfect for preschoolers and elementary-age children. Two show times available. Event passes handed out 30 minutes prior to each program. Free admission.
Where: Cumming Library, Meeting Room, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA
Play at Post: Games for All Ages
When: Monday, January 5 | 11 AM - 3 PM
What: Bring friends or make new ones at this inter-generational game event! Kids, teens, and adults can play together with board games, card games, and more provided by the library. Drop in any time during the program. All ages welcome. Free admission.
Where: Post Road Library, Meeting Room, 5765 Post Road, Cumming, GA
Tuesday
Dungeons & Dragons Night
When: Tuesday, January 6 | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
What: Join the gaming community for an evening of adventure! Whether you're an experienced player or curious newcomer, all skill levels welcome. Dice and materials provided. Open to middle school, high school, and adults. Free admission.
Where: Hampton Park Library, Meeting Room, 5345 Settingdown Road, Cumming, GA
The Stitching Hour
When: Tuesday, January 6 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What: Relax, create, and connect with fellow crafters at this social meetup for adults. Bring your current project - knitting, crochet, embroidery, or any fiber art. All art forms and skill levels welcome. Drop in any time. Free admission.
Where: Post Road Library, Meeting Room, 5765 Post Road, Cumming, GA 30040
Wednesday
American Red Cross Blood Drive
When: Wednesday, January 7 | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
What: Give the gift of life! The need is constant, and the gratification is instant. Walk-ins welcome or schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org. Donors receive refreshments and the satisfaction of helping up to three lives with each donation. Free to participate.
Where: Sharon Forks Library, Meeting Room, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, GA
Chess Club for Kids
When: Wednesday, January 7 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
What: Join this monthly chess meetup for kids in grades 2-8! Whether you're learning the game or sharpening your skills, all experience levels welcome. Boards and pieces provided. A great way to build strategic thinking skills. Free admission.
Where: Post Road Library, Meeting Room, 5765 Post Road, Cumming, GA
Thursday
Twilight Tales (Family Music & Stories)
When: Thursday, January 8 | 6:30 PM
What: This library event features live music and songs woven into a family storytime, perfect for those with young children looking for an early evening activity.
Where: Forsyth County Public Library - Cumming Library (585 Dahlonega St), Cumming, GA
WEATHER
Monday
62 🌡️ 50 | ☁️ | 10% | 💨 S 7 mph (6 knots)
Tuesday
64 🌡️ 58 | 🌦️ | 40% | 💨 SW 12 mph (10 knots)
Wednesday
68 🌡️ 50 | ☀️ | 5% | 💨 W 6 mph (5 knots)
Thursday
68 🌡️ 57 | ☀️ | 5% | 💨 SE 9 mph (8 knots)
💧🌡️ Water temperature = 47ºF
Temperature readings taken from Lake Sidney Lanier the night before publication
THANKS!
Thanks for being part of the Forsyth Flyer family! If you found this helpful, do a neighbor a favor and invite them to subscribe! While you’re at it, is your significant other subscribed yet? Make sure they've joined the list so you can both stay on the same schedule for all of this week's local events. If you know of any events coming up or just want to say hi, feel free to reply directly to this email. Whether we’re recycling our trees or gathering at the library, let’s resolve to look out for each other and stay connected. Have a safe, wonderful week!