Residents play a significant role in contributing to the quality of life in Cherokee County. For this reason, the Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO) recently recognized Denver Peardon and Rebecca Johnston as
Outstanding Cherokee County Citizens.

Denver Peardon has worked to bridge the differences that separate people and to improve the quality of life in Cherokee. He has also strived to preserve the military history of our community by writing a book that recounts the experiences of 13 World War II veterans, and he has raised money for disabled veterans by traveling to 400 locations to display a collection of military memorabilia in a mobile museum.

Rebecca Johnston has made a difference in the lives of many in Cherokee by devoting her time, talents, and compassion to projects and activities that improve the lives of her fellow citizens. Johnston has written two books about Cherokee County and has served as member of the press corps covering local news for more than 20 years. She has served as president of the Cherokee County Historical Society, member of the Cherokee Board of Trustees for the Sequoyah Regional Library System, member of the Service League of Cherokee County, and chairwoman of the Canton Downtown Development Authority.