Season’s Greetings, Canton! I hope your holidays are off to a wonderful start. When thinking about my comments this month, there are certainly no lack of topics to cover. This time of year is simply magical in the Coolest Small Town in America! Many rightfully comment that Canton seems like a “Hallmark Movie” during the holidays, and I couldn’t agree more. I want to thank all of the individuals on our team that work tirelessly to make sure this happens, year after year. Not only do the decorations and festive events repeat each year, they only get bigger and better for the enjoyment of our residents and to benefit our businesses.
In addition to our City sponsored events, there are many other holiday traditions in Canton to be celebrated, appreciated, and enjoyed throughout the season. Some are small and modest, while others are large and glitzy. Combined, they add to the holiday spirit in our community and offer something for everyone, young and old. That’s what truly makes this time of year so special in Canton, the collective celebration of Christmas and the holidays – the simple joys that can only be experienced in a small town. From the tree lighting in Cannon Park, to Christmas Pete towing the grinch out of all of us, to the huge gathering of family and friends for Christmas at The Mill, the list of events and activities continues to grow – and December has just begun!
However, what I find exceptional about this time of year is the spirit of giving and selfless service by so many in our community. From food and toy drives to fund raisers and warming shelters, the non-profit and service groups in Canton and Cherokee County continue to raise the bar when it comes to exemplifying the notion that it is better to give than receive. Many groups and individuals do this unnoticed, and they prefer it that way. Others, however, have a long history of promoting goodwill over the holidays. For example, the Love Lights a Tree event I emceed last weekend has a long legacy of raising funds for the American Cancer Society and honoring those in our community who have battled this horrible disease. Started almost 30 years ago by former City Councilman Wade Buchanan and his late wife, Peggy, upon the loss of their son, Steve, to cancer in 1992, “Buck” has single-handedly raised over $500,000 for the American Cancer Society since.
For me, Mr. Buchanan, like so many others, personify and honor the true holiday spirit of bringing comfort and joy to all. Let’s follow their lead and build upon the goodwill we enjoy in Canton, because there’s no place like home for the holidays!
