I Heart You
February is a time to celebrate love, and here in Canton, Georgia, we’re extending that celebration beyond Valentine’s Day. This month, we're focusing on Love Local—a heartfelt appreciation for the people, places, and passions that make our community thrive.
When we think of “love local,” supporting our brick-and-mortar businesses often comes to mind. But it’s also about the people behind the scenes— those who excel in their crafts and serve us daily, making Canton a special place to call home.
Take Emma Miller, for instance, whose books have captured hearts and imaginations far beyond Canton but who remains committed to this community, serving us behind the bars of Sidelines, Holly Springs. Or Alley Bei, a talented musician whose melodies have become the soundtrack of our small-town charm, performing at local venues and sparking joy wherever she goes.
And what would our local love story be without the new gems redefining our social spaces? La Cantina on Main, for example, is more than just a delicious new spot for authentic Mexican food and margaritas—it’s a gathering place where neighbors meet, friendships are formed, and community is built.
We’re also excited to highlight the incredible transformation of the H istoric Jones Mercantile Building under Penn Hodge and Grant Schmeelk's vision. Their efforts have turned this landmark into a vibrant hub of commerce and culture, proving that respecting the past can fuel the future.
This issue is our love letter to Canton, celebrating the people and places that make our town shine. So, as you turn these pages, we invite you to discover—or rediscover—what it truly means to love local. Whether you cheer for the seasoned superstar in our midst or support the new barista who serves your morning coffee, together, we can celebrate the extraordinary in the everyday.
Here’s to a February filled with love—for each other, our town, and the vibrant community we’re building together.
With Love,
CHICKA ELLOY, PUBLISHER
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dr. Bruce Baker | @WitnessoftheTimes
Glen Labuschagne | @MarnusMaxwell
Eric Dogini | @EricOnPoint
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Naomi Hopkins | @naomihopkinsphoto
Kevin Jonas-Davis | @KdavisWhat
T.J. King | @artistctrlmusic
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn
FEBRUARY 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@HKYOHANNES
@FDB_SOCCER
@VINTAGECOUTUREBAGS
@ROOMOUNTAINVINEYARDS
@SDLEE10
@EOTL_PRODUCTIONS
@CLAYGOSWICK
1: Hanna (right) celebrating her win in the Canton City Lifestyle giveaway with Morgan 2: Louis Vuitton is here for the season. Get your swag today. 3: Filming a Mini-Doco in Canton! The Mastrototaro brothers are ready to bring Canton History back. 4: Tasting in the Barrel Room at Roo Vineyards for Valentine’s. 5: Players committed to their development putting in the work during winter. 6: Stephanie brings the party to Queenie’s. Happy Birthday Steffa 7: White Tail Coffee Co FTW + Clay
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Working Out for Water
Justin and Lindsey Mattingly have been making a meaningful impact since opening in September 2020. Their GRIT fitness community in Riverstone, Canton, is dedicated to functional fitness, nutrition, and serving others—the Never Thirst's Workout for Water event funds water wells in India, Africa, and Asia. Most recently, they raised $10,000 for the Matiak Foundation to support a school initiative in Honduras. Discover how you can join the movement: GritlLifeFitness.org
Need to up your Social Game?
Open Heart Media established its Downtown Canton office at Thrive–The Mill on Etowah in January 2024 and is already making a remarkable impact on the community. Specializing in website design, social media management, photography, and videography, they are experts in helping local businesses thrive. Canton's most prominent brands have engaged on social and warmly embraced their presence, and Open Heart Media is grateful for the heartfelt welcome. Visit OpenHeartMediaCo.com
4th Annual Adult Prom Returns to Benefit The Children’s Haven
On February 8, 2025, the 4th Annual Adult Prom fundraiser invites guests to step into the Roaring '20s. The event features hors d'oeuvres, drinks, dancing, auctions, a Wine Pull, and a $25 Speakeasy Experience with specialty drinks and exclusive photo ops. Open to ages 21+, all proceeds benefit The Children’s Haven, dedicated to promoting the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse and neglect. Details: TheChildrensHaven.org
Here are the top 5 real estate insights into the current market trends shaping this sought-after area:
Rising Median Sale Price As of December 2024, the median sale price for homes in Cherokee County has climbed to $479,900, up from $446,918 in December 2023. This increase underscores the area's growing desirability and robust investment potential.
Increased Price Per Square Foot The median price per square foot has risen to $216, compared to $198 last year, reflecting a steady appreciation in property values and signaling a substantial market for sellers.
Shifting Market Balance With housing inventory expanding to 2.7 months of supply from 2.0 months the previous year, the market is trending toward balance. This equilibrium between supply and demand often leads to more stable pricing and opportunities for buyers and sellers.
Neighborhood Growth and Development Communities like Ball Ground, Canton, and Woodstock are experiencing significant growth. New residential developments, upscale amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere are attracting buyers seeking the perfect blend of luxury living and convenient access to Atlanta.
Positive Market Forecasts Looking ahead, home values are expected to continue appreciating steadily over the next year, with moderate price increases projected— barring any major economic shifts. This forecast makes now an opportune time to invest in Cherokee County real estate.
Text Chris Ess - 678.899.8909 Your “Ess”ential Guide
LOVE POTION #9
ANNA BARNES
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
NOW OPEN IN CANTON
ABRAHAM ZACHARIAH
La Chispa del Centro
ARTICLE BY GLEN LABUSCHAGNE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY T.J. KING
La Cantina on Main has quickly become a beacon in downtown Canton. It offers elevated Mexican cuisine, signature cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere where the community gathers to celebrate and savor life. Founded by Ramon and Freddy Benitez, along with Jose Luna and Guillermo "Memo" Pomares, La Cantina has transformed the former East Main Café and Audio Intersection into a fresh, dynamic destination for food and events.
With roots stretching back over 20 years, we watch a new legacy unfold while redefining local dining. The partners have created an iconic space that honors tradition while embracing modern tastes and community spirit by combining innovative flavors, a welcoming vibe, and personal connections.
FAMILY LEGACY TO COMMUNITY HUB
“WE HONOR TRADITION WHILE EMBRACING INNOVATION—IT’S ABOUT CREATING A SPACE WHERE PEOPLE FEEL LIKE FAMILY.”
Q&A WITH FREDDY BENITEZ
Q: YOUR FAMILY IS KNOWN FOR MEXICAN DINING THROUGHOUT NORTH GEORGIA. HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?
Freddy: My dad’s journey started decades ago when he founded El Ranchero on Towne Lake, quickly becoming a local favorite. That success inspired him to open Dos Margaritas in 1999 on Riverstone Parkway, establishing a name that put him on the map. Over time, he expanded Dos Margaritas to Hickory Flat and Crabapple, creating a brand synonymous with Mexican dining in North Georgia. My dad’s relationships with customers were always at the core—he greeted people by name, and they saw him as more than just a restaurant owner. That personal connection remains the foundation of everything we do as a family.
Q: LA CANTINA ON MAIN FEELS FRESH AND MODERN YET DEEPLY ROOTED IN TRADITION. HOW DID THIS CONCEPT COME TO LIFE?
Freddy: After COVID, my dad and I were ready for a new challenge and teamed up with Guillermo and Jose. When we discovered this space in downtown Canton, its history and charm immediately inspired us. Walking through the old church area sparked ideas about what it could become. Initially, we thought about a food hall, but as our vision evolved, it became unique: elevated Mexican cuisine paired with a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
Q: WHAT MAKES LA CANTINA ON MAIN STAND OUT?
Freddy: It’s about more than just food—the attention to detail sets us apart. Memo hand-selects the freshest ingredients daily, ensuring every dish is exceptional. Our menu reflects the community’s tastes while elevating their experience. Whether through innovative dishes, signature cocktails, or personalized touches, everything we do is crafted with care and connection.
Events at La Cantina on Main
La Cantina on Main is more than a dining destination—it is a versatile venue for unforgettable events. With a spacious layout that comfortably accommodates 110 guests, the space is perfect for private gatherings such as wedding rehearsals, milestone birthdays, and corporate events. Guests can customize their experience with room for DJs, live bands, or any setup that fits their vision.
Freddy Benitez highlights the team’s commitment to creating dynamic experiences for the community. He notes that the venue’s flexibility makes it ideal for various celebrations. “Whether it’s a 50th birthday party or a wedding rehearsal, we want the space to feel like it’s tailored to the people using it,” he explains.
In addition to private events, La Cantina plans to host themed nights such as disco parties, live karaoke, and watch parties for significant sports events like the Super Bowl and Formula 1 races. Freddy envisions the space as a true community hub, offering everything from live music to casual gatherings.
No matter the occasion, La Cantina on Main provides the perfect blend of style, functionality, and warmth, making every event memorable.
Q: HOW DOES COMMUNITY FEEDBACK INFLUENCE THE MENU AND OVERALL EXPERIENCE AT LA CANTINA ON MAIN?
Freddy: Listening to our guests has been essential. Every new item on the menu or tweak we make directly results from what our customers tell us. For example, when we introduced a dish with potatoes—a less traditional ingredient for Mexican cuisine—it was because we noticed our community loves them. We tested it, and it became a hit. We don’t just serve food; we serve people whose voices shape what we do. It’s about building trust and making everyone feel like part of the La Cantina family.
Q: THE FAMILY COOKOUT IS A STANDOUT ITEM ON YOUR MENU. WHAT INSPIRED THIS DISH, AND WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE?
Freddy: YES! It’s a feast that brings everyone together, just like our family meals growing up. The dish includes grilled meats like steak, chicken, shrimp, fresh vegetables, rice, beans, and warm tortillas. The communal experience makes it unique—everything is served on a large platter, perfect for sharing. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating those moments where everyone feels part of something bigger, just like in our family.
Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW BRUNCH CONCEPT.
Freddy: Starting in January, we’ll launch a Mexican-American brunch on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 AM. Guests can expect dishes like carne asada Benedict paired with mimosas, offering a creative twist on classic brunch fare. This new offering lets us share our signature flavors in an entirely new way, and we’re confident it’ll become a weekend favorite.
Q: HOW DO YOU SEE THE RESTAURANT ENHANCING DOWNTOWN CANTON’S APPEAL?
Freddy: It’s about honoring the past while keeping it fresh. Relationships have always been our foundation, but listening to our customers allows us to evolve—adjusting the menu or enhancing the atmosphere. We focus on creating a space deeply connected to the community, where people feel at home and proud of what Canton offers.
Q: EACH BUSINESS PARTNER AT LA CANTINA BRINGS SOMETHING UNIQUE. HOW DO THEIR “SUPERPOWERS” SHAPE THE RESTAURANT?
Freddy: Each partner plays a vital role. My father provides the foundation with his decades of experience and Cherokee community ties. Jose is embedded in the Canton network and has specialized expertise in Tequila. Memo is our sourcing genius, ensuring quality ingredients that make every dish stand out. My role is to unify it all, focusing on relationships and building a legacy. Together, we balance tradition with innovation, creating something truly special.
PRODUCING OUTSTANDING RESULTS • CREATING GREAT EXPERIENCES TREATING OUR PATIENTS LIKE OUR OWN FAMILY MEMBERS
WHEN YOU LOOK GOOD, WE LOOK GOOD.
MEET DR. ANDY KRAGOR
ILLUMINATING CANTON’S Local
SCENE
ARTICLE BY ERIC DOGINI PHOTOGRAPHY BY NAOMI HOPKINS
"Love Local" celebrates our community's unique talent, creativity, and spirit. It reminds us to support small brick-and-mortar businesses and value the individuals whose contributions often go unnoticed yet profoundly enrich our shared spaces. From artists and authors to musicians and makers, these unseen stars bring stories, melodies, and innovations that shape our local culture and connect us on a deeply personal level. Embracing "Love Local" means recognizing and supporting these talents, ensuring their voices resonate within our community and beyond.
Emma Miller, a self-published author, and Alley Bei, a multi-talented musician, exemplify the creative heartbeat of our Canton community. Representing Cherokee and Sequoyah High Schools, where their unique paths began to unfold. While their journeys have taken them in different directions, they share a profound dedication to storytelling and artistry that connects them deeply to their roots and resonates far beyond their local origins.
“I STAYED TRUE TO THE romance and stories I LOVED GROWING UP WHILE EMBRACING a modern voice . WRITING IS ABOUT CONNECTION, AND IT’S INCREDIBLE TO SEE my words resonate with readers.” —EMMA MILLER.
Emma’s transition from online fanfiction writer to celebrated novelist highlights her commitment to crafting stories that connect with readers across genres. Her online story, Cherry, garnered over 15 million reads, sparking encouragement from fans to pursue self-publishing. In response, Emma released her debut novel, The List of Things, introducing readers to her authentic voice through a heartfelt narrative that blends humor, personal growth, and romance. Its sequel, The Pros and Cons of Us, further explores the interconnected lives of her characters, delving into themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. These works highlight Emma’s ability to create engaging, multidimensional characters and emotionally rich worlds that captivate her audience.
For Emma, writing is more than a profession—it’s a way of forming genuine connections. “Someone out there needs your story,” she says. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be written.” This philosophy drives her work and shines through her active social media presence. She balances personal anecdotes with creative updates, cultivating a loyal community of readers championing her voice.
Similarly, Alley Bei’s musical journey reflects her passion for connecting with audiences through her craft. Starting with poetry, Alley evolved her love for words into songwriting, creating a sound deeply influenced by her upbringing in Canton. Rural Georgia's acoustic tones blend seamlessly with Atlanta's vibrant beats, shaping her eclectic style. Her bilingual track, "Daily Struggle (尔程奋斗)," showcases her global perspective, merging Mandarin and English into a harmonious blend of storytelling and melody.
“MUSIC DECORATES YOUR TIME—IT’S a universal language THAT CONNECTS PEOPLE ACROSS cultures, emotions, and moments.”
—ALLEY BEI
As a multi-instrumentalist, Alley brings a dynamic range to her music, performing with piano, guitar, accordion, violin, and trumpet. Her live performances, from polished rock concerts to intimate acoustic sets, captivate audiences with emotional depth and immersive energy. “Music decorates your time,” she shares. “It’s a universal language that bridges emotions and experiences, connecting people in meaningful ways.”
Together, Emma and Alley represent the power of creativity. They transform personal stories into art that enriches their community and audiences worldwide.
Emma’s debut novel, The List of Things, tells the story of a young woman navigating her aversion to romance despite her love for romantic comedies. Guided by a charming quarterback, her journey unfolds as a heartfelt exploration of love, humor, and self-discovery.
This debut set the stage for Emma’s evolving literary voice, blending relatable characters with emotional resonance. Its sequel, The Pros and Cons of Us, delves into the lives of supporting characters, offering fresh perspectives on friendship and personal growth. Emma’s ability to craft multidimensional characters and engaging narratives has earned her a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Her latest release, The Rules of You and Me, takes a bold step forward, focusing on a younger sibling from her first novel. The story explores themes of finding one’s place in a complex world, family dynamics, and personal growth challenges. Emma’s evolution as a writer shines through in her ability to tackle universal themes while maintaining the deeply personal connections that resonate with her readers. “Writing lets me share what I love while giving readers something they need,” Emma reflects, highlighting her passion for storytelling and connection.
Alley Bei’s music shares a similar depth of connection. Her debut album, All The Things , represents a decade of songwriting, weaving stories of resilience and triumph. The album is a testament to her ability to transform personal experiences into music that speaks to universal emotions. Following this, her EP, We’ll Still Wear White, offers a raw and intimate look into her life, exploring love, heartbreak, and renewal themes. Rather than dwelling solely on loss, the EP transitions into hope and self-empowerment, capturing Alley’s journey of healing and growth.
Alley’s live performances extend the emotional depth of her recordings, ranging from dynamic rock concerts to stripped-down acoustic sets. As a multi-instrumentalist, she incorporates piano, guitar, accordion, violin, and trumpet into her performances, adding layers of richness to her sound. Her collaborations with other musicians further amplify her work, creating a memorable and immersive experience for her audience. “Music isn’t just sound,” she explains. “It’s a way to connect, to tell stories, and to create moments that linger long after the final note.”
Together, Emma and Alley illustrate how personal experiences can be transformed into art that bridges connections, inspires reflection, and celebrates the vibrant creativity rooted in Cherokee County. Their work exemplifies the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and create lasting impact.
“I LOVE THE
CHINESE LANGUAGE,
AND I INTERACTED WITH the language AND the culture FOR ABOUT EIGHT YEARS.”
—ALLEY BEI
Emma and Alley’s work is rooted in their shared connection to Cherokee County. Emma’s passion for storytelling was nurtured while studying musical theater at Reinhardt University, while Alley attended the University of North Georgia, where she studied Chinese Language and Culture. Her studies included a transformative experience in Beijing, China, which profoundly influenced her musical style, shaped by Canton’s blend of rural charm and urban energy.
Alley’s upcoming album promises to push boundaries with themes of sensuality and empowerment. “This album will be adventurous, uplifting, and full of life,” she shares. Meanwhile, Emma’s release of The Rules of You and Me in January 2025
marks another milestone in her journey, blending drama, growth, and heartfelt connection.
Together, these two artists exemplify the power of creativity to inspire, bridge cultures, and connect communities. Their stories remind us that the transformative nature of art starts at home, proving that local talent has the potential to resonate far beyond its origins.
To learn more about Emma Miller’s work, visit EmmaMillerBooks.com, where you’ll find her latest updates, a calendar of events, and insights into her creative process. Explore Alley Bei’s music and updates at AlleyBei.com, the central hub for her calendar, merchandise, and social media.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Building the Perfect Bouquet
Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.
Roses
LOVE & ROMANCE
Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.
Lilies
PURITY & FERTILITY
Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.
Tulips
PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE
A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.
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Call 770.360.9271 x2 to book appointments. Transport & financial assistance availiable. Most major insurance companies accepted.
HEARTBEAT TO PULSE
Vintage to Visionary: The Jones Mercantile Reborn
ARTICLE BY DR. BRUCE BAKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HISTORY CHEROKEE & CANTON CITY LIFESTYLE
Since its establishment in 1879, the Jones Mercantile Building has witnessed over a century of transformation. The Canton, Georgia Cornerstone has served as a hub for goods, services, and community interaction. Initially a bustling mercantile establishment that catered to the everyday needs of Cherokee
The original Mercantile safe
Serving Canton from 1879. The Jones Building shows how progress and preservation can reside together.
County residents, it offered everything from buggies to swimwear. In its recent transformation into a modern multi-use facility, great care was taken to preserve its charm while adapting to the community's changing needs. Its renaissance skillfully blended tradition with innovation, contributing to Downtown Canton's economic and cultural revitalization.
From the start, the Jones Mercantile Building was the heart of commerce in Canton. Farmers bought tools; families shopped for clothing; the building was a daily stop for the community. As Canton’s needs changed, it endured as a commercial center. By the 1960s, it had diversified, continuing to serve residents.
As the first step in preserving this iconic site, Canton restored its historic façade. Seeing the potential to blend the building’s rich history with a new future, the purchase by P. Hodge and G. Schmeelk marked a pivotal moment. They embarked on a revitalization project, maintaining its essence while meeting the demands of the 21st century. A striking aspect of the building’s transformation is the attention paid to its architectural details. The original façade, with intricate brickwork and arched windows, was restored, preserving the iconic appearance seen in so many old photographs of downtown Canton. Inside, the developers drew inspiration from the elegance of the Great Gatsby era, successfully creating a space where history and modernity coexist.
History Cherokee
The building’s design balances past and present. The over 45,000 square feet of space has been redesigned to accommodate modern needs while maintaining period aesthetics. This blend has attracted businesses eager to set up shop in a space that celebrates the past while embracing the future.
It’s not just a business space; the Jones Mercantile Building is now a vibrant hub for community engagement and collaboration. The versatile design now accommodates co-working areas, meeting rooms, and event venues. It provides businesses and individuals with options for workshops, networking events, and social gatherings. The adaptability of the space has made it a popular choice for businesses seeking a dynamic, inspirational, growing environment.
The revitalized Jones Mercantile Building has already had a profound impact on Downtown Canton’s economic development. The repurposed building’s multi-use space drives more foot traffic to local shops and restaurants, encouraging further investment in the area and creating a thriving community for residents and visitors. The building's renovation also underscored the project’s commitment to sustainability. Using historic tax credits to fund the preservation of the original structure, the project minimized environmental impact while maximizing potential. This has set a precedent for other historic properties, demonstrating that preserving the past can be key to planning for the future.
A revitalized space is incomplete without great food; the Jones Mercantile Building doesn’t disappoint. One of its highlights is P.O.P.S., a local restaurant bringing Canton's best Italian cuisine. P.O.P.S. serves breakfast through dinner, drawing residents and visitors alike.
This blend has attracted businesses eager to set up shop in a space that embodies character and charm, creating a community where the past is celebrated and the future is embraced.
B&B Social complements the mix of businesses within the building, bringing a social dimension that enhances the community feel and is increasing a late night vibe to E. Main Street. Whether grabbing a quick bite, meeting clients, or enjoying a leisurely dinner, the restaurants are integral to the building’s new identity.
The modern, multi-use space, the building remains a pulse of Canton’s community, just as it did when it opened nearly 150 years ago. Its transformation under Hodge and Schmeelk is a testament to the value of preserving history while embracing change. The repurposed space honors Canton’s past while serving Canton’s
present by providing new opportunities. This blend of history and modernity sets the Jones Mercantile Building apart, making it a model for revitalizing historic properties. As Canton continues to grow, the Jones Mercantile Building will play a key role, providing a space where businesses and people come together, and history and innovation meet.
The transformation of the Jones Mercantile Building symbolizes what is possible when planning the future includes respecting history. Serving the local community in new ways while staying rooted in the past and reflecting Canton’s spirit, it offers a space to work, dine, collaborate, and connect.
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CANTON.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from January 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.
2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST
Winter Scavenger Hunt: Jekyll Island
901 Downing Musgrove Causeway Jekyll Island, GA | 9:00 AM
Jekyll Island hand-picks artists from across the country to create one-of-a-kind glass floats for its annual Island Treasures event. Come down during your Winter Break and gather your friends and family to search for globes that can be exchanged for dazzling handcrafted glass floats. The Hunt ends on February 28th. Jekyll Treasure Hunt
FEBRUARY 1ST
Winter Kid Fun at the Cherokee County History Center
221 E. Marietta Street Canton, GA 30114 | 10:30 AM
Science Saturday and Winter Break STEAM Camps. "Mad Kitchen Science!" Experiments will include things like making elephant toothpaste, creating homemade lava lamps, making homemade bubbles, and more. Looking for something fun and engaging for your kids to do during Winter Break? Join History Cherokee for five days of STEAM based activities that tie into the history on display at the Cherokee County History Center. Winter Kids Activity Link
FEBRUARY 8TH
Annual Guns and Hoses 5K- Cherokee Parks and Recreation
Hobgood Park-6688 Bells Ferry Rd, Woodstock, GA 30189 | 8:00 AM
19th Annual 5K Run/Walk on February 8, 2025, at Hobgood Park in Woodstock, GA. The purpose of the run is to raise money for charity causes selected by both groups, Guns & Hoses. The charity for Cherokee Sheriff's Office (Guns) is the Charlie Ferguson Community Center which stands as a symbol of the power of volunteerism and community engagement. Register Here
FEBRUARY 14TH
Lovers: A Taylor Swift Tribute Concert
The Mill on Etowah (Ice Rink Stage) 225 Reformation Parkway Canton, GA 30114 | 6:00 PM
Celebrate love this Valentine's Weekend with "Lovers: A Taylor Swift Tribute Concert" on February 14th, 2025, at the Mill on Etowah in Canton, Georgia! Experience an enchanting evening filled with the magic of Taylor Swift’s biggest hits, especially her romantic "Lover" album. 1989: Songs of Taylor Swift tribute band will bring her iconic songs to life. Lovers Tribute Concert Tickets
FEBRUARY 16TH
Film Screening: Home Is a Hotel
The Historic Canton Theatre 171 E. Main St Canton, GA 30114 | 2:00 PM
Come join us a the historic Canton Theatre for the fourth film in the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. This free screening will feature the documentary "Home Is a Hotel" with panel discussions following the show. This character-driven, verité documentary immerses viewers in what it means to call a single room home in the heart of one of America's richest cities. Home Is a Hotel Tickets
FEBRUARY 22ND
High Tea with Princess Belle hosted by Sweety's 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton, Ga 30114 | 11:00 AM
Get ready to be treated like a true Princess. Sweety's offers three seating times (11am, 1pm, and 3pm) for parents to register their own little princesses to have a wonderful time with their adult date. The lovely Belle will be present to greet and meet all her fellow princesses in training. Don't miss this sweet opportunity. Princess Belle Tickets
Our new Hickory Flat location is opening on February 3 on Hickory Flat Hwy, across from Kroger.