Community HeART

As the official first day of autumn approaches (September 22), many longtime Cherokee County residents begin to look forward to the cooler temps as well as one of the area's most beloved fall fundraising events — the Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival, which will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year! Be sure to check out page 20-21 for a bit of history and a preview of this year's event. So much creativity will be on display for you to enjoy!

Speaking of creativity, in Woodstock Family Life's more than 10 years of existence, we have been honored to feature over 150 artists in our popular "Artist Profile" column, which introduces readers to talented local creatives each month. Our goal is to promote a love and support of art and artmakers while educating the public on the many different types of artists, genres, and mediums including actors, dancers, filmmakers, illustrators, jewelry makers, mixed media artists, musicians, muralists, painters, photographers, quilters, sculptors, stage makeup artists, woodworkers, and many others. Since our Riverfest preview serves as this month's Artist Profile, stay tuned to see who will be featured in October!

Also, it is wonderful that the City of Woodstock works hard to bring people together by prioritizing art in our community. Public sculptures and murals beautify and add interest to the area; live music, dance, and theatrical performances provide fabulous entertainment close to home; and visiting local art galleries makes for a great date night or family outing.

Actor, screenwriter, and playwright Harvey Fierstein said, "Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire, and motivate." So, be sure to take advantage of all the local opportunities in our community to be moved by art.

Happy fall, y'all!