Good morning, Forsyth County. I hope your 2026 is off to a wonderful start. As the holiday decorations come down and we settle into a new rhythm, there is a distinct sense of possibility in the air.
This year, I’ve been thinking a lot about resolutions. While individual goals are great, there is something powerful about a shared resolution to make our corner of Georgia even stronger. My resolution for the Forsyth Flyer is to be a bridge that connects us all. Some of you are "legacy" residents who remembers Cumming before the bypass. Others are newcomers who just moved here for our incredible schools. We all have a stake in making Forsyth a place where everyone feels they are home.
My goal is to keep you informed on news and events so you can have a voice in the conversation. Thank you for being part of this community. I can’t wait to see what we build together in 2026.
— Chad
THE DIGEST
Forsyth County Jeepers Spread Holiday Cheer with Cookies and Milk Run
Local firefighters across Forsyth County received a sweet surprise this past week as the Forsyth County Jeepers continued their tradition of giving back to those who serve. On Christmas Eve, a convoy of decorated Jeeps rolled through the county, visiting 15 different fire stations to deliver fresh cookies and milk to the crews on duty. For many firefighters working through the holidays, the visit has become a highly anticipated event that brings a sense of home to the station. The Jeepers group, known for their community-focused rallies and philanthropic efforts throughout the year, noted that the "Cookies and Milk" run is their way of saying thank you to the first responders who stay away from their own families to keep the community safe. The sight of the lit-up Jeeps traveling together has also become a favorite holiday "spot" for residents, adding an extra layer of magic to the Forsyth County streets during the final days of the year.
Forsyth County Sets Priorities for 2026 Legislative Session
As the Georgia General Assembly prepares to convene, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners has finalized its legislative priority list to present to state lawmakers. Key on the agenda is a push for increased state funding for regional transportation projects, specifically aimed at alleviating congestion along the GA-400 corridor and Highway 20. Commissioners are also advocating for more local control regarding short-term rental regulations and asking for state support to expand water treatment capacity to meet the needs of the county's growing population. By establishing these goals early, the board hopes to ensure that Forsyth’s rapid growth is matched by support from the state capitol, allowing for better-synchronized infrastructure and economic development.
New Senior Activity Center Phase Enters Final Planning
The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department has moved into the final design phase for the much-anticipated expansion of senior services in the northern part of the county. Following a series of community input sessions, the board approved the preliminary site plans for a new satellite activity center designed to mirror the success of the Sexton Hall facility. The new center will focus on wellness programs, hobby workshops, and social spaces for Forsyth’s growing "silver" population. Construction is expected to begin later this year, funded largely by voter-approved SPLOST dollars. Officials noted that the project is a direct response to the "Silver Tsunami" of retirees choosing Forsyth County for its high quality of life and dedicated senior resources.
Safety Upgrades Slated for Busy Post Road Intersection
Traffic safety remains a top priority for Forsyth County as the Department of Engineering announced a new round of intersection improvements scheduled for early this year. The focus will be on the intersection of Post Road and Kelly Mill Road, an area that has seen increased traffic volume due to recent residential developments. The upgrades will include the installation of dedicated turn lanes, improved signal timing, and enhanced pedestrian crosswalks to accommodate students walking to nearby schools. These improvements are part of a broader county-wide initiative to reduce response times for emergency vehicles and lower the frequency of accidents in high-growth corridors. Residents can expect minor lane closures during the initial survey phase starting next week.
Adoptable Dog of the Week
Dash - Male - 8 Years Old
Forsyth County Pet Adoption & Resource Center
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’
Friday
Live Music: Rae and the Ragdolls at Cherry Street Brewpub
When: Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
What: Kick off the first weekend of the year with live music at Vickery Village. This high-energy performance pairs perfectly with award-winning local craft beers and a full dinner menu. It’s a great way to shake off the post-holiday blues with neighbors.
Where: Cherry Street Brewpub at Vickery Village - 5810 Bond St, Cumming GA
Ice Skating at Halcyon
When: Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
What: Enjoy one of the final weekends of the season at the Halcyon ice rink. This real-ice outdoor rink offers 45-minute skating sessions, nearby fire pits for s'mores, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Where: Halcyon Town Square - 6365 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta GA
Saturday
Craft with Me: Puzzle Piece Collage Art
When: Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
What: This crafting event is open to kids, teens, and adults of all skill levels. You’ll use old puzzle pieces to create unique collage art. It’s a great way to upcycle and get creative. Passes are handed out 30 minutes before the start, so arrive early to snag a spot!
Where: Forsyth County Public Library (Post Road Branch) - 5010 Post Rd, Cumming GA
Post-Holiday "Clean Sweep" Community Recycling Event
When: Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
What: Clear out the holiday clutter at this drive-through recycling event. Volunteers will be on-site to help residents recycle electronics, Christmas trees, and excess cardboard. Note: Certain electronics may require a small disposal fee.
Where: Forsyth County Fairgrounds - 235 Castleberry Rd, Cumming GA
Introduction to Archery at Sawnee Mountain
When: Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
What: Learn a new skill for the new year! This beginner-friendly class is led by certified instructors and covers safety, equipment, and shooting techniques. All equipment is provided for participants ages 8 and up.
Where: Sawnee Mountain Preserve - 4075 Spot Rd, Cumming GA
Sunday
Sunday Jazz Brunch at Tam’s Backstage
When: Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
What: Wrap up the weekend with a sophisticated brunch in a historic setting. Enjoy live jazz music while dining on local favorites like shrimp and grits or brioche french toast. Reservations are highly recommended for the first Sunday of the year.
Where: Tam’s Backstage - 215 Ingram Ave, Cumming GA
Bark in the Park Walk at Caney Creek
When: Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
What: A casual community dog walk to get residents and their pets moving. This is a great chance to meet other local pet owners and explore the paved trails. Don't forget to bring water for your furry friends!
Where: Caney Creek Preserve - 4645 Marsett Pkwy, Cumming GA
Bingo & Brews at NoFo Brew Co.
When: Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
What: Spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon with a game of Bingo in the taproom. It is family-friendly and free to play, with prizes for the winners. It’s a great spot to bring the whole family (and the dog!) to wind down before the first full work week of the year starts.
Where: NoFo Brew Co. - 6150 GA-400, Cumming GA
WEATHER
Friday
61 🌡️ 44 | ☁️ | 10% | 💨 W 8 mph (7 knots)
Saturday
56 🌡️ 45 | 🌦️ | 35% | 💨 NE 7 mph (6 knots)
Sunday
61 🌡️ 43 | ☀️ | 5% | 💨 NW 7 mph (6 knots)
💧🌡️ Water temperature = 49ºF
Temperature readings taken from Lake Sidney Lanier the night before publication
THANKS!
Thanks for being part of the Forsyth Flyer family! As we step into 2026, my resolution is to make sure every neighbor, whether you’ve been here for decades or just arrived, feels like they are home in our community. If you found this helpful, do a neighbor a favor and invite them to subscribe! Let’s resolve to look out for each other and stay connected. Have a safe, wonderful weekend!