🛶 Where Does It Go First?

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Good morning, Forsyth County,

When you’re working through a big idea, where does it go first? A laptop, your phone’s notes app, or a trusty notebook?

I recently attended a business conference and found myself noticing everyone’s approach. One guy photographed every slide with his iPad, flash and all. Another appeared to be transcribing the speaker’s every word. Then there was my camp: listen, let it sink in, and scribble down three words that will hopefully still mean something tomorrow.

There’s probably something to be said for each method, though I suspect the iPad flash wasn’t doing much for anyone.

What I appreciated most was having a reason to pause, hear a different perspective, and give a few ideas room to develop. I’m grateful for the opportunities we have here in Forsyth County to do exactly that. However you take your notes, it’s good to keep learning.

– Chad

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THE DIGEST

Forsyth’s Classroom Standouts Begin the Road to Teacher of the Year

Forsyth County Schools has named its 2026–27 school-level Teachers of the Year, recognizing educators whose influence reaches well beyond a single lesson. Honorees include Brad Davis at Alliance Academy for Innovation, Aditi Vishal at Big Creek Elementary, and Lisa Duff at South Forsyth High. Their recognition begins a selection process that will continue through the school year. Applications are due October 12, with 20 semifinalists scheduled to be announced November 10. Classroom videos will help narrow the field to five finalists in February, followed by interviews. The district winner will be revealed March 12, 2027, during the Celebration of Excellence at the Forsyth Conference Center. Families can explore the complete list of honorees and selection timeline to find the educators representing their schools.

Roti Brings More Mediterranean Choices to Forsyth Town Center

Another lunch option is taking shape at Forsyth Town Center. Roti Modern Mediterranean is planning a restaurant at 3125 Ronald Reagan Parkway, Suite 912B, joining the growing dining lineup around Whole Foods Market. The planned space measures 2,124 square feet. Chipotle and Panda Express have already opened in the development, while Potbelly is expected to follow in the coming months. For diners unfamiliar with Roti, customization is central to the brand. Its current menu includes rice bowls, salads, pitas, and wraps, with ingredients such as chicken, falafel, hummus, and tahini. Signature bowls offer combinations for customers who prefer to leave the ingredient matching to the kitchen. An opening date was not included in the location announcement, so residents will need to wait a little longer before adding Roti to their lunch rotation.

Campground Road Closure Starts September 28 as Highway 9 Work Advances

Drivers who use Campground Road to reach Atlanta Highway should prepare for a month of detours. Weather permitting, Campground Road will close at Highway 9 beginning Monday, September 28, for approximately 30 days. Crews will build a new road alignment, raise the pavement to its planned elevation, improve drainage, and complete paving and concrete work. The closure is one piece of a larger, $36.9 million project widening roughly 2.4 miles of Highway 9 between McFarland Parkway and a point north of Post and Mullinax roads. Plans expand the highway from two lanes to four and add a raised median and sidewalks. Motorists should follow posted detour signs and budget extra travel time. The construction notice makes the schedule weather-dependent, so the reopening date could shift.

CIVIL NEWS

Cumming Planning Board Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 5:00 PM
What: The Planning Board considers planning, zoning and land-use matters. The September agenda was not yet posted when checked.
Where: Cumming City Hall, Council Chambers, third floor, 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Cumming City Council Regular Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 6:00 PM
What: The City Council conducts city business involving municipal services, spending, policies and development. The September agenda was not yet posted when checked.
Where: Cumming City Hall, Council Chambers, third floor, 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Forsyth County Board of Education Regular Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 6:00 PM public portion; the meeting opens at 5:00 PM before executive session
What: Agenda items include a finance report, personnel policy changes, elementary school turf, transportation purchases, HVAC services and classroom furniture.
Where: Board of Education and Professional Development Center, first-floor board meeting room, 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040

Forsyth County Planning Commission Work Session
When: Tuesday, September 15, 6:30 PM
What: Commissioners will discuss specialty district buffers and review zoning and conditional-use applications scheduled for September 22 public hearings. The public may attend the work session but cannot speak or ask questions.
Where: Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Building, Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Suite 220, 110 East Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Forsyth County Development Authority Regular Meeting
When: Thursday, September 17, 9:30 AM
What: The authority will receive financial and economic development reports, including updates on The Gathering, Forward Forsyth, county government and the Chamber of Commerce.
Where: Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College, Board Room, 3410 Ronald Reagan Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30041

Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting and Public Hearings
When: Thursday, September 17, 5:00 PM
What: The board will conduct its regular county business meeting and public hearings. The official notice confirms the meeting, but a detailed agenda was not yet posted when checked.
Where: Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Building, Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Suite 220, 110 East Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Lakeside Middle School Local School Council Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 8:00 AM
What: The council provides advice and recommendations on school matters. The meeting listing is published, but no agenda items were publicly available when checked.
Where: Lakeside Middle School, Lake Life Room 1404, 2565 Echols Road, Cumming, GA 30041

Vickery Creek Elementary School Local School Council Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 8:00 AM
What: The agenda includes a presentation to the school council, the principal’s report, and old and new business.
Where: Vickery Creek Elementary School, Room 301, 6280 Post Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Lambert High School Local School Council Meeting
When: Tuesday, September 15, 4:00 PM
What: Council members will hold introductions, approve the agenda and elect a chairperson for the 2026–27 school year.
Where: Lambert High School, Room 1142, 805 Nichols Road, Suwanee, GA 30024

New Hope Elementary School Local School Council Meeting
When: Thursday, September 17, 8:00 AM
What: Topics include school improvement goals, the new literacy coach role, Georgia Milestones results, a playground update and feedback on the draft 2028–29 school calendar.
Where: New Hope Elementary School, room listed as “FOCR,” 4810 Castleberry Road, Cumming, GA 30040

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Monday

Monday Mood: Yoga on the Green
When: Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
What: Enjoy a free outdoor yoga class for all experience levels, followed by a meditation session. Bring a yoga mat and water, and feel free to invite friends or family. Weather updates will be posted on The Heart Studio Yoga’s social media.
Where: Lou Sobh Amphitheater at Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Teen Acrylic and Beyond
When: Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM; end time not listed
What: Teens ages 13–18 can explore acrylic painting and other media in a six-week course welcoming beginners through advanced students. Techniques include texture, blending, and bubble effects. Registration costs $225 for the course, with materials included except brushes.
Where: Cumming Arts Center, 111 Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Tuesday

Red Robin Dine to Donate
When: Tuesday, September 15, starting at 11:00 AM; end time not listed
What: Support The Place while eating at Red Robin. Mention The Place to your server so that 20% of proceeds from your meal benefits the organization. An easy opportunity to contribute while meeting friends or family for lunch or dinner.
Where: Red Robin at The Collection, 370 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041

Zumba Sunset Sweat with Allyson
When: Tuesday, September 15, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What: Onelife Fitness presents a free, Latin-inspired outdoor dance fitness class led by Allyson. All fitness levels are welcome. Bring water and a small towel, and wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothing. The organizer lists the class as rain or shine.
Where: Lou Sobh Amphitheater at Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Wednesday

Spaces & Places Art Exhibition
When: Wednesday, September 16, and Thursday, September 17, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM each day
What: Explore artwork inspired by meaningful places in this exhibition presented in partnership with the Forsyth Historical Society. The exhibit welcomes interpretations of Forsyth County history alongside other locations that hold significance for the artists. Work is displayed on both floors of the arts center.
Where: Cumming Arts Center, 111 Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Forsyth Creates: Book Flower Vase
When: Wednesday, September 16, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
What: Turn a book into a decorative flower vase during this hands-on craft program for adults. All supplies are provided, and no experience is necessary. The session is part of Forsyth Creates, a library series that brings community members together through creative projects.
Where: Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road, Cumming, GA 30041

Chess Club
When: Wednesday, September 16, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
What: Certified coaches from Championship Chess will teach beginners the basics and help intermediate players develop new moves. Suggested for students in grades 2–8. Free event passes are required and will be distributed beginning at 5:30 PM on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where: Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Thursday

Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness
When: Thursday, September 17, starting at 10:00 AM; appointment availability varies
What: Wacoal’s Fit for the Cure event offers complimentary bra fittings. For each guest who receives a fitting and purchases a regular-price Wacoal or b.tempt’d bra, Wacoal will donate $5 to Susan G. Komen. Appointments are encouraged, and walk-ins are welcome.
Where: Belk, 520 Lakeland Plaza, Cumming, GA 30040

Preschool Pals
When: Thursday, September 17, 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
What: Children ages 3–5 and their caregivers can share stories, songs, and movement activities that build vocabulary, listening skills, and early reading readiness. The program encourages children to participate as they discover books and practice language skills together.
Where: Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Elementary Writing Workshop
When: Thursday, September 17, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
What: Young writers in kindergarten through fifth grade can practice storytelling through hands-on lessons and activities. The monthly workshop introduces writing tips and techniques for children interested in fantasy, realistic fiction, graphic novels, and other forms of creative writing.
Where: Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, GA 30041

Fall Cornhole League
When: Thursday, September 17, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
What: The fall cornhole season continues at Cumming City Center, with league competition leading toward an October 29 tournament and prizes. Players should use the registration link on the event page to check participation availability and league updates.
Where: Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040

What Is Ghost Hunting?
When: Thursday, September 17, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What: Dan Bernstein, cofounder of Paranormal Detectives of Georgia, will discuss his team’s investigative work and how it differs from Hollywood portrayals. The presentation includes a look at equipment used during investigations and audio recordings from the team’s cases.
Where: Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Upcoming

Cumming City Center Fall Market
When: Saturday, September 19, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
What: The fifth annual Fall Market will bring more than 100 local vendors to Cumming City Center for a full day of shopping, food, and entertainment. Visitors can browse artisan goods, fall decorations, and handcrafted gifts while enjoying live music, food trucks, sweet treats, and drinks. Children’s activities will include a Toy Story dance party, miniature pumpkin decorating, games, and a dedicated Kids Zone. Pets can join the fun during a costume contest with prizes. Admission is free and open to the public.
Where: Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040

WEATHER

Monday

93° 🌡 71° | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 0–5 mph N

Tuesday

87° 🌡 66° | 🌤️ | 5% | 💨 10–15 mph E

Wednesday

88° 🌡 65° | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 5 mph E

Thursday

89° 🌡 65° | ☀️ | 15% | 💨 5 mph E

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 78ºF
Temperature readings taken from Lake Sidney Lanier the night before publication

THANKS!

That’s it for today, Forsyth County.

Whether you’ve already filled a notebook this morning or you’re still trying to remember why you opened the notes app, I hope something in today’s Flyer was worth jotting down. A plan for the weekend counts. So does a reminder to catch up with someone you haven’t seen in a while.

Putting these issues together gives me a reason to keep paying attention, and I appreciate you making time to read them. If something caught your eye, pass it along to a friend. And if there’s something happening around Forsyth County you think I should know about, hit reply. Some of the best things we share start with a note from a reader.

Have a great week!