🌱 Forsyth Co. Named Healthiest In GA + 'Summer In The City' Now Open

Hey, friends! It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Patch newsletter. Let's get this Thursday started off right with a quick review of everything you need to know about what's happening in town, including updates on:

• Forsyth County has been named the healthiest county in Georgia
• Cumming Arts Center community art show now open
• Forsyth County schools seeking mentors for 2023-2024 school year

But first, today's weather:

Humid with periods of sun. High: 89 Low: 74.

Here are the top five stories in Cumming today:

1. Forsyth County has been named the healthiest county in Georgia by Chicago Health Online. Since 2011, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute have conducted annual studies to rank counties based on residents' length of life and quality of life. For 2023, they also examined civic involvement as a factor in thriving counties, considering community engagement through activities like voting and volunteering. The rankings show the connection between community involvement and overall health, with historical examples demonstrating how civic engagement has influenced public health improvements. (Chicago Health Online)
2. The Cumming Arts Center's annual Community/Member Art Show, "Summer In the City," is now open for public viewing. The artwork has been judged by art professors from SCAD and the University of Georgia, as well as a professional commercial photographer, with prizes awarded for 2D, 3D, and photography entries. The exhibit will be on display until Aug. 26, and visitors can also participate in voting for the People's Choice Award. The Cumming Arts Center is located in the historic Brannon-Heard House at 111 Pilgrim Mill Road, and entry and parking are free. (Cumming Patch)
3. The Forsyth County School system is seeking mentors for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year. Today, Jul. 20, a meeting/training session will be held at the Forsyth County Board of Education from 6:00-8:00 p.m. To learn more or to apply to be a mentor click here. (Forsyth County Schools via Facebook)
4. Forsyth County has released a video showcasing the experiences of its employees from various departments, sharing their stories and favorite aspects of their jobs. The video highlights why they believe Forsyth County is a great place to work. To explore job opportunities and learn about the benefits of working for Forsyth County, visit www.forsythco.com/careers/fb. (Forsyth County Georgia Government via Facebook)
5. The initial investigation at the Sharon Forks Library on Old Atlanta Road has commenced. However, the criminal investigations division is still conducting an ongoing investigation into suspicious activity. Due to the ongoing investigation, the library is currently closed. (Forsyth County Sheriffs Office via Facebook)

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Today in Cumming:

Thursday, July 20

• Music Bingo Soundcheck At Freedom Brew And Shine (7:00 PM)
• Thursday Trivia Night At The Black Diamond Grill (7:30 PM)
• Shrek The Musical At Forsyth Academy Of Performing Arts (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• AMC Theatres is offering an escape from the summer heat with their AMC Summer Movie Camp featuring kid-approved films like "Ruby Gillman," "Teenage Kraken," and "Trolls Band Together." Families can enjoy family-friendly classics on the silver screen at discounted ticket prices of $3 on Wednesdays and $5 on Saturdays. (Activity Hero)
• A panel of experts, including a family law attorney, private detective, financial advisor, and therapist/real estate agent, is offering guidance and education to those considering or going through a divorce. The event will take place on Aug. 26 at Sharon Forks Library in Cumming, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Additionally, virtual Boot Camp 4 Divorcing Women will be scheduled during the week in the early evening, and for registration and more information, participants can call Debbie at (770) 512-5131. (Cumming Patch)
• Mark your calendar for Fun On The Farm on Jul. 21 at Save The Horses Farm in Cumming! Attendees can participate in crafts and grooming and can go on a farm tour. (Cumming Patch)

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Featured events:

• Summer BBQ Celebration (July 22)
• Christmas in July Home Show at the Avalon in Alpharetta (July 23)
• Taxes in Retirement Seminar at City of Sugar Hill - E Center (July 25)
• Add your event

You're officially in the loop for today! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow with a new update.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.