Forsyth Herald - January 26, 2017

J a n u a r y 2 6 , 2 0 1 7 | Fo r s y t h H e r a l d . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 0 , N o . 4

Cherry Street looks to expand Taproom will double seating capacity ►►PAGE 18 MICHAEL WILLIAMS/SPECIAL

State Sen. Michael Williams witnesses President Donald Trump arrive at the Inaugural Ball.

Forsyth County takes on Washington Forsyth Republicans traveled Jan. 20 to the nation’s capital for President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Read more, Page 7.

Collection apartments denied

Board rejects South Forsyth overlay ►►PAGE 4

Walk the walk

Locals attend women’s marches ►►PAGE 10

Fill Ministries buys land

Will be used for aquaponics ►►PAGE 11

Empty Nest Sponsored section ►►PAGE 22

Sail away with Appen’s Cruise Giveaway

MICHAEL WILLIAMS/SPECIAL

State Sen. Michael Williams and his wife, Virginia, attend the Inaugural Ball.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY REP. ROB WOODALL

Rep. Rob Woodall had a wide view at the inauguration.

Learn how to win the cruise of your dreams ►►PAGE 32

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Four businesses were apparently burglarized overnight Jan. 19 to the early morning hours of Jan. 20.

All the businesses are around the Bethelview Road, Buford Highway and Atlanta Highway area. The locations of the burglaries are 5456-101 Bethelview Road, 1240-140 Buford Highway, 2920 Ronald Reagan Blvd. and 2325-300 Atlanta

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The Herald Newspapers are published by Appen Media Group, 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta Ga. 30009.

All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

Fake job scams $22K from man FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A local man is reportedly out $22,945 after falling victim to an apparent scam.

The 60-year-old man told the sheriff’s office Jan. 18 he received an email regarding a job opening at a logistics company. He said he responded to the email to express his interest in the job and received an email back from the company’s human resources department.

He said he was interviewed, evaluated, tested and asked to sign agreements and was then hired. During the communication, he was told he would need to buy Apple gift cards to be used at a future date for computers for the new office.

Before he bought each gift card, the company sent him money in the amount. He bought 14 gift cards totaling $22,945. The man said he made sure the company’s reimbursement showed up in his account before buying. But his credit card company contacted him to tell him the purchase was unable to be processed due to a lack of funds. He then saw the money was no longer in his account. He called Apple and was told the gift cards were already used.

He completed a statement form.

Appen Media Group

Highway.

The criminals reportedly broke the front door windows of each business and entered through the broken window.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating and recording all the items that were taken.

At this time, three suspects are known to be involved, and cash was taken from each location.

Vulgar graffiti painted at park FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office was notified of graffiti painted at a local park Jan. 16.

According to the official report, at Long Hollow Park several signs, bathroom doors and various other places along the sidewalk were painted with black spray paint.

The majority of the damage was, “vulgar with obscene language and pictures of genitalia,” according to the report. Additionally, a swastika, noose, Star of David, a slur for black people and the word “Trump” were also painted.

The person who notified deputies was unaware of any other incidents like this in any of the other parks.

Lawnmower sale causes argument FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After a man was told he couldn’t purchase a lawnmower, he reportedly started sending threats to the seller.

The seller told the sheriff’s office he was selling a lawnmower on a yard sale page on Facebook. He said the buyer said he was interested, but the item had already sold by the time he arrived at the seller’s house. Once the buyer left, he reportedly started calling and texting threatening messages to the seller.

A deputy listened to the voicemail and said it wasn’t threatening in any way. Rather, the buyer said he was

upset he drove to the seller’s home and the mower was sold already. The buyer also reportedly said he would post about this on the Facebook page so no one else would do business with him.

The text messages also carried no threats, according to deputies. The seller’s wife reportedly told the buyer to not come back on the property or she’d call the police.

The buyer was told the matter would not be pursued.

DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

DUI arrests ►► Harish Sajja, 41, of

Westmoorland Lane, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 14 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI. ►► Timothy Scott Alexander, 50, of Island Pointe Drive, Buford, was arrested Jan. 12 on Stoney Point Road in Cumming for DUI and headlight violation. ►► Kelly Lynn Kishpaugh, 31, of Taylor Parkway, Suwanee, was arrested Jan. 12 on Southers Circle in Suwanee for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Alexia Nichole Martin, 38, of Parks Road, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 12 on Pilgrim Mill Road in

See ARRESTS, Page 28

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 3

Cataract surgery and the newest Symfony Lens Implant

See The Big Game Clearly!

By Dr. Samir Vira

Cataract surgery has become a very safe and refined procedure with over 3 million Americans undergoing the surgery every year. With advancements in technology over the last 20 years, the surgery can now be performed with mild sedation in about 10-15 minutes. Not only has the procedure become sophisticated, but the lens technology used to correct patients’ vision has evolved also. In the past, patients were simply offered standard Samir Vira, M.D. intraocular lens implants and were instructed Cataract & Refractive to obtain new bifocal glasses after surgery.

Surgeon However, with the advent of astigmatism-correcting and multifocal lens implants, patients are now able to see clearly with independence from glasses.

Presbyopia is a natural aging process of the eye whereby an individual loses his or her ability to see things up close beginning in the mid 40s. This occurs due to the natural loss of flexibility of the lens, and you will require the need of reading or bifocal glasses or contact lenses for your near visual tasks. Presbyopia-correcting lens implants have emerged to match the needs for your near vision. Unlike bifocal or multifocal contact lenses, these lens implants are inserted into your eye and do not require any additional care.

Several presbyopia-correcting lens implants, including accommodative and multifocal implants, have been developed over the last 10-15 years.

However, both categories of implants have their limitations. Accommodative implants do not provide adequate near vision for most individuals and still require the need for reading glasses. Multifocal implants usually provide good vision for intermediate and near tasks, such as working on the computer or reading a book; however, patients may experience glare or halos while driving, especially at night. Additionally, these implants do not correct astigmatism.

The newest presbyopic-correcting lens implant that received FDA approval in July 2016 is the Tecnis Symfony lens implant. This implant, categorized as the only “Extended Depth of Focus” implant, not only will give a broad range of vision from distance to near for patients but also improve the quality of their vision. The Symfony implant has been engineered to correct spherical and chromatic aberrations of the eye. These aberrations can diminish an individual’s image quality despite a normal and good surgical outcome. By reducing these aberrations, the Symfony implant will improve the quality of a patient’s vision. Furthermore, with a reduced incidence of glare and halos with this implant, patients are more likely to be satisfied with their visual outcomes. The Symfony implant is also available for astigmatic correction, unlike the previous multifocal implants, in the United States.

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NEWS

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By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — It’s official.

Apartments will not be built at The Collection right now.

After deferring a decision in November on allowing the apartments to be built at the county’s outdoor shopping mall, The Collection, the Forsyth County Commission voted Jan. 19 to deny the proposal.

In November, a motion to deny the South Forsyth Overlay was a tie, with commissioners Pete Amos and Cindy Jones Mills against the denial. With then-Commissioner Brian Tam recused, that led to a tie vote, and the board decided to wait until January when two new commissioners took office.

In one of their first acts on the board, both District 2 Commissioner Rick Swope and District 5 Commissioner Laura Semanson voted in favor of the motion to deny the overlay. The three commissioners, Amos, Mills and Todd Levent, who remained on the board, kept their original votes.

The proposed expansion included a town center with a town green where concerts, plays and special events could be held. A mixed-use area with a 24-hour customer base for residents living on-site, additional offices, retail area and park space was also considered. One of the most notable changes was the addition of 309 housing units, all one- to two-bedroom apartments.

On Nov. 3, 2016, the board heard over 20 comments during a public

This rendering shows the now denied expansion of The Collection would have looked like with apartments. hearing. Many who opposed the overlay wanted the decision to be deferred until they had commission representation from newly elected members.

Other speakers that night said the change would set a precedent that would be hard to ignore later, that it would cause more traffic and overcrowd South Forsyth High School which is right down the road.

Ethan Underwood, an attorney with Miles, Hansford and Tallant who worked on the project said in November it was a watershed moment. Comparing this project to Alpharetta’s Avalon, he said it’s what the people want.

“In our comprehensive plan we say to give us a mixed-use development,”

Underwood said. “We’re just doing what we said we would 10 years ago. We are asking to do something no one else has done yet.”

Opponents disagreed and said Avalon attracts homeowners and large property taxes rather than transient people.

A few business owners at The Collection spoke in favor of the overlay saying it would put them on an even playing field with Avalon and the upcoming Halcyon development off Exit 12 on Ga. 400.

Others said it would give their customers the whole experience of being able to partake in a live, work, play environment.

Commissioners place moratorium on rezoning applications Freeze impacts applications for residential districts

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recently put a halt on applications for various rezoning districts.

On Jan. 10, the board approved a limited moratorium for 30 days on accepting applications for rezoning of property to the Single Family Community Residential District (CR2), Single Family Residential District (RES3), Single Family Residential District (RES4) and Master Planned District (MPD).

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the action came after speaking with

a few of the board members who he believes have an interest in fundamentally revamping some of the residential portions of the county’s Unified Development Code. The moratorium will “maintain status quo,” he said, and also give the board time to decide what they envision for the UDC changes.

The board will next hold multiple public hearings on the topic and write a draft with the new verbiage. Jarrard estimated the entire process would take approximately three months.

To enact a moratorium longer than 30 days is considered a zoning action by the courts, Jarrard said. So, the board needs to hold public hearings,

and the moratorium can’t be 90 days to begin with.

Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said this was supposed to be on the Jan. 5 board meeting agenda, but the item was forgotten. In the business days between the meetings, roughly a dozen applications were brought into the county.

Chairman Todd Levent said he thinks those people knew about the impending moratorium. Mills said she was left in the dark and didn’t tell anyone.

“I’m not thinking they had that much time. They must’ve known before that,” Levent said. “Others knew this was potentially coming weeks ago. Two days to put together a site plan and get everything together? Not likely, but it is possible.”

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 5

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6 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

SCHOOLS

Governor Deal remains committed to fixing schools Number of ‘chronically’ failing rising

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – Undaunted by voter rejection of his plan to fix failing schools, Gov. Nathan Deal is pledging to continue the fight to help the growing number of students “trapped” in failing public schools.

During Deal’s State of the State address on Jan. 11, the governor said failing schools remain the “greatest negative” in the education landscape of Georgia.

“Two years ago, there were 127 chronically failing schools with roughly 68,000 enrolled students,” said Deal.

“Now...there are 153 schools that had a failing score for three consecutive years [serving] almost 89,000 students last school year.”

Since 2012, schools have been graded on the CCRPI (College and Career Readiness Performance Index) which evaluates schools on a 100 point scale covering academic performance and other variables.

Schools scoring below 60 are con-

sidering failing; three years of failing adds the label “chronically failing.”

Last year, Deal lobbied hard for a constitutional amendment creating the Opportunity School District (OSD) – a state-run district made up of the state’s lowest performing schools.

But voters soundly rejected that plan in November, concerned by the overreach of state government into local schools.

While Deal maintains the data proves outside intervention is still needed, others say the state is simply raising the requirements each year, guaranteeing more schools will be added to the list of failing schools.

While avoiding any plan specifics or legislative proposals, Deal said his efforts will be directed at elementary schools, which comprise 70 percent of the state’s failing schools.

“If we can reverse this alarming trend early on, if we can eliminate this negative that directly or indirectly impacts all of us, then our reading comprehension scores, math skills, graduation rates and the quality of our workforce will all improve considerably,” said Deal.

Turning to teacher pay, Deal pledged to add $160 million to fund a 2

percent teacher salary increase in the Fiscal Year 2018 budget.

This year, the 3 percent increase given to school systems was intended for teacher raises. However only 60 percent passed the money directly to teachers; 40 percent of districts used the money for other purposes.

In FY18, the money will go directly into the state teacher salary plan, providing a true permanent raise for teachers.

Deal focused on the more than $2 billion increase in education funding over the last four years, pointing out nearly 50 percent of all new state revenue is going to public education.

But education advocates say revenue increases should be directed to fully funding the Quality Based Education (QBE) formula which determines how much money each school system receives.

Districts were particularly hit hard in the early 2000s when an “austerity cut” was first implemented to compensate for falling revenues. Those cuts have since become permanent.

While Deal has steadily reduced the level of cuts from $1.1 billion to $167 million last year, districts are still underfunded, school officials say.

“The governor is recommending

...There are 153 schools that had a failing score for three consecutive years [serving] almost 89,000 students last school year.”

NATHAN DEAL Georgia Governor that the state base salary schedule be increased 2 percent effective Sept. 1, but did not address the existing $167 million shortfall,” noted Angela Palm, director of policy for the Georgia School Boards Association.

Notably missing during the Jan. 11 speech was any mention of the blue ribbon Education Reform Commission which developed 58 recommendations for changes in education. Those recommendations were delivered to Deal at the end of 2015, with the governor pledging to consider the recommendations and fund those he wanted to implement this year.

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NEWS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 7

Forsyth Republicans attend inauguration Some attended inaugural, Ga. balls

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com WASHINGTON, D.C. — Considered one of the most American things in our society is the presidential inauguration.

Millions witness in person, TV and online the peaceful transfer of power from one president to the next.

And for a few Forsyth County residents, they were able to see it in person on Jan. 20 when President Donald Trump took office.

Chairman of the Forsyth County Republican Party Carolyn Fisher traveled to D.C. for the historic event.

“I was thrilled,” she said. “It has been a long and arduous journey for us for 18 months with a lot of ups and downs. To have won the election and then to get to actually go to the inauguration was absolutely amazing. It put a nice, pretty red, white and blue bow around the whole thing.”

Fisher was fortunate to have a seat at the event and was able to see and hear the ceremony.

“Washington was so beautiful,” she

PHOTO PROVIDED BY REP. ROB WOODALL

Rep. Rob Woodall celebrates the inauguration with 7th District residents in Washington, D.C. said. “The flags hanging at the capitol were glorious. It was such an American event.”

The packed crowd was full of pure excitement, Fisher said.

“It was quite emotional because we had really worked so hard for such a long time to see this finally come to fruition and our hard work pay off,” Fisher said. “The atmosphere was nothing but excitement in anticipation for what we hope to be a true turnaround in the

United States.”

The transfer of power is so peaceful in our nation and only takes a minute, Fisher said.

“We are lucky in the United States because in other countries there are often coups and overthrows of the government,” Fisher said. “Here it is such a peaceful transition of power that it is miraculous we live in such a wonderful country.”

State Sen. Michael Williams said he

was impressed by Trump’s speech.

“I thought if people had open minds and were willing to listen, they heard that we need to come together as a country and fix some issues we have,” Williams said. “The energy was electrifying. It was a fun event.”

Williams had the chance to attend the Inaugural Ball and the Georgia Society Ball.

“The excitement level and the amount of people at the Georgia Ball was fun,” he said. “It was nice to see President Trump come out and have a first dance with Melania at the Inaugural Ball.”

Rep. Rob Woodall said he was proud to be at the inauguration with the hundreds of thousands of Americans.

“Even more gratifying for me was seeing all of the families from the 7th District of Georgia who made the long journey to be here,” Woodall said. “I was able to visit with many families one-on-one as they came to pick up their tickets before the inauguration, and many of us gathered again after the inauguration to share our stories.

The sense of community that we as Americans share when celebrating our greatest days transcends politics and partisanship.”

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8 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

OPINION

The biggest protest in U.S. history Today was a long strange day and one I will remember fondly for a long time. I woke up to rain. The Woman’s March in downtown Atlanta was scheduled to start at 1:00. I knew it RAY APPEN would probably be Publisher ray@appenmediagroup.com crowded, especially on MARTA. I don’t like crowds particularly. However, I had mentioned to staff at the paper that I might cover the event – something that normally we would not do because we work really hard to focus on strictly local news – stuff that actually happens in North Fulton or South Forsyth.

Additionally, writing about anything associated with the election or the new president was at a minimum questionable because we have all been over-exposed to that news ad-nauseam by this point. Enough.

So the rain was a good excuse to not go I thought to myself – for maybe 10 minutes. Then I did what I think I have done a few times or more in my life, which is to do something simply because it is the right thing to do.

I have done many things during my adult life also for the sole purpose of providing a good example to my children. If a parent is not going to do that, who will? I have always been a vocal advocate of speaking up and actively supporting one’s cause. So, I thought, how can I skip attending this march?

“Maybe it will get rained out,” I thought, as I drove through a heavy downpour on Ga. 400 to the MARTA station. Maybe no one from North Fulton will be going to this thing, which would give me the perfect out. Then again, my wife and her best friend Debbie were marching in LA and my daughter was marching in Oakland, as was my sister Allyson.

After watching the inauguration on TV, close friends packed and drove all night to Washington to be there for that march – the right thing to do in their minds. How could I not suck it up and go?

Surprise number one was that MARTA was absolutely packed with people from Alpharetta, Roswell and North Fulton. Hundreds of people crowded the North Springs station – many with their signs and banners, some with children, couples, singles — and all animated, excited and seemingly glad to be there getting ready to be drenched and walk. I was feeling more at home. I had my first interview with the woman in line behind me –

you can hear it on our website NorthFulton.com.

When I first got on my train, I thought I got on the wrong one – the one headed to the Grateful Dead concert. Everyone was old like me – gray hair, tired but glistening eyes – jeans, leather shoes, and yes those pink pussy hats that I had never heard about but discovered rather quickly.

I sat next to a woman – Karen Tapelband - from Marietta who reminded me of a swim team mom at all those meets I attended growing up.

Trim, conservatively and comfortably dressed, and personable, she said this was only the second protest she had ever attended. It was my first.

We talked about many things, but the one thing she said that stuck with me was that when she told her husband she was doing downtown to the march, he told her that they would make more money with Trump in office, so why go? Her response to him that she shared with me was simple and eloquent: “That’s not the point, not the point at all,” she replied to him.

She told me she was going to stand up for the values of hers she felt were in jeopardy.

“Couldn’t just do nothing” she said.

I asked her how her children felt about her doing this protest. She said that both of them had supported Bernie and wanted nothing to do with either of the candidates in the election after Bernie lost.

“They want nothing to do with the status quo” she said.

I told her that sounded familiar. I have high hopes for that generation; they won’t be taken in by the rhetoric or the spin. They can see what is going on.

When I got off the train at the Five Points station, it began to rain even harder. After about 10 minutes walking I was half drenched, even though I was

wearing a rain jacket. It didn’t much matter, though, because the crowd was growing rapidly all around me – hundreds then thousands of people. Many of us took a short break in a parking garage when the rain got much heavier.

While we waited for a break in the weather, I interviewed a young couple — both teachers. She taught art in Lawrenceville and he taught AP English Literature in Suwanee. Both were here for essentially the same reason as Karen – not directly as anti-Trump activists but as pro values – inclusiveness, diversity, equality, women’s rights — they felt were in jeopardy because he won the election. I was interested in how they managed the election in their classrooms.

She told me that she tried to focus like a laser on her discipline – art – and avoided allowing politics in any form into the classroom. He said the same thing, although his mission to his AP Literature classes was to teach and train his students how to think and process critically so they had the tools to make their own political choices and decisions.

They both wore the pink hats and were a delight to spend a few minutes with one wet Saturday afternoon.

Estimates of the Atlanta crowd were in the neighborhood of 60,000. I am sure that the ultimate number of marchers nationally and around the world ranged from more than a million to as high as 2.9 million. Whatever the number was, it was massive. There were marches all over the world in support of women’s rights in the United States as well as opposition to the new administration in general.

Los Angles had over 750,000, Chicago and Boston had estimates of 250,000, New York 200,000 to 500,000 and the estimate in Washington DC was 500,000. Smaller cities still had big numbers: Oakland with 60,000; 50,000

in Philadelphia; 100,000 in Madison; 20,000 in Nashville. A friend texted me that even in her small town of Roanoke, Va., there were 3,000.

The interesting and probably most surprising aspect of these marches to many people who weren’t there, was the fact that there was no violence and at this point I have yet to even hear of an arrest. That’s not bad for a widespread event involving over millions of protestors. In fact I think it is somewhere this side of magic or divine.

The tone of the marches also was a surprise. The negativity, hate, confrontations and aggression so commonly associated with protest marches in our past – think those during the Viet Nam War – was almost entirely missing. Yes a modest minority of the protest signs and messages were directly aimed at President Trump and his agenda.

However, the vast majority of those attending these marches from all I can see and read was a positive message of values and a desire to communicate in no uncertain terms that attempts to change, eliminate, or diminish those values will be met with resolute opposition on a massive scale.

On my way back to MARTA, I spotted what was probably as representative of the spirit and tone of this woman’s march in Atlanta as anything else I saw – the lines of high fives, hugs, and thumbs up between the protestors exiting the route and the rows of police officers they were walking past.

Both protestors and the police together worked and worked well – respect in action and smiles all around. The Atlanta Police released a video of that exit that is worth seeing if you haven’t already seen it. It is on our site NorthFulton. com.

Also on the site is a larger gallery of images that I shot at the march. Check them out. You may even recognize your neighbor! NorthFulton.com

OPINION

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 9

This is what democracy looks like

I woke up Saturday to a tornado watch and rain pounding against my window. As lightning lit up the sky and thunder shook the ground, I prepared myself KATHLEEN STURGEON both mentally and physically for what Editor kathleen@appenmediagroup.com was to come.

My friend and coworker, Julia, and I got in my car and headed into the city to participate in the Atlanta March for Social Justice and Women. While on Ga. 400, the sky became darker and it started to rain harder. We kept joking, asking each other, “Is this an omen?”

But we figured some rain couldn’t stop us.

When we got downtown, the air was electric — and not from the storm.

I don’t quite know what I was expecting. I’ve never been one to publicly share my political stances.

On social media, I may “like” a photo, but I try my best to stay neutral.

I have family and friends on both sides, and I’d like to keep them in my life,

more so I respect them and their right to believe what they want.

My friends and I were excited. It has been a rough election cycle and we needed a chance for all of us to get together and express how we were feeling.

Thankfully, the march gave us that opportunity and, even more so, thankfully it was peaceful.

We weren’t there for a fight.

Of course, I heard heckles from people who didn’t understand or agree with what we were doing.

And I did see marchers holding signs and chanting slogans that I didn’t necessarily agree with or think were appropriate.

But that’s not what will stick with me.

For me, the march was a positive, uplifting, passionate movement.

When it was raining, we held umbrellas over one another and shared ponchos.

Every time we passed a group of police officers, the entire crowd would start to cheer, clap, hug, line up to high-five and genuinely appreciate and respect our law enforcement.

When we passed a church along the route, clerical members and officials

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Congressman and Civil Rights leader John Lewis addresses the crowd in Atlanta. stood outside, handing out water bottles and telling the group their restrooms were open to all, and they had places to rest.

I was overwhelmed by the love I saw from pretty much everyone.

We were there in unity. While we may not have all agreed nor had the same views on the issues that brought marchers to the event, we all were there to show that we had a voice and we weren’t backing down.

I didn’t go to the march to make a statement about our new president, as opposed to what many people believe.

No, instead I was there to show that I am united with anyone who feels like their voices aren’t heard. I was there to stand up for what I believe. I was there to show solidarity.

I believe that when a group of people want to accomplish something they feel strongly about, they are successful, regardless of gender, religion, skin color, sexual orientation, or really anything.

It’s an American right and privilege to be able to speak our minds without fear of repercussion. Just check the First Amendment.

I think we did that on Saturday. We may not have accomplished something tangible, but we made a statement. We were seen, heard and empowered.

And that makes me proud to be an American. March on.

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Community members participate in Atlanta, D.C. marches Forsyth Democrat group sends bus to Washington

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ATLANTA — Around the world, millions of people joined together Saturday, Jan. 21 at various satellite locations of the March for Social Justice and Women.

In Atlanta, more than 60,000 people marched from the Center for Civil and Human Rights to the Georgia state Capitol.

And although storms in the morning might have deterred some people, Alpharetta resident and member of the Roswell chapter of the Citizens Climate Lobby, Terry Schiff said you couldn’t tell at the North Springs Marta station.

“I was amazed,” she said. “I was expecting maybe four people there on a Saturday morning. There was a huge crowd trying to buy tickets. The train was packed. And there was so much positive energy.”

Schiff and the crowd “walked cheerfully through sideways rain” to get to the march. She was intending to meet up with friends at the event, but due to the large turnout, she was unable to.

“I was astounded by all the people there,” she said. “It was a closely packed crowd with not much room to move around.”

She saw a variety of people in the crowd, all with varying reasons for attending. For Schiff, it was mainly about environmental issues.

“It was such a positive event,” Schiff said. “It wasn’t a protest but a demonstration of concern about some issues we want to make sure President Trump understands we care about deeply.”

In Trump’s new home of Washington, D.C., over half a million people reportedly marched there.

Anita Tucker is the third vice chairperson for the Forsyth County Democratic Party. She organized a group of 36 north Georgia residents to attend the D.C. event.

“It was amazing,” Tucker said. “It was emotional to see all these people of all walks of life and denominations.

There were Muslim women praying to Mecca, LGBT people, transgender people. Nobody cared. It didn’t matter.”

Tucker witnessed multiple instances of people coming together to help each other out. Onlookers cheered the crowd on, and the marchers thanked the police as they walked by.

“There was no pushing, no one got violent,” she said. “Everyone went with the flow. There was no reason to be afraid of us. We are mad, but not at you. We respect them and what they’re doing.”

There were counter demonstrators, Tucker said, but she didn’t see anyone engaged with them.

“It’s a free country, everyone can protest,” she said. “But no one engaged with them which was important. It kept the focus of the demonstration where it should be.”

And although nice to one another, Tucker said they were still passionate.

“People were fired up,” she said.

“Don’t mistake kindness as weakness, because it’s not, and it wasn’t.”

People are angry about what they think might happen now that Trump is in office, Tucker said.

“We don’t want the things being said by our president to be normal,” she said. “We don’t believe that’s the way the country should go. We may not be able to make changes, but we are definitely going to make our voices heard.”

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 11

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From left, Stephen Daniels, co-founder and director of operations, Suellen Daniels, founder and executive director, Rubye Hunsberger, board of directors and emeritus and chaplain, and Derek Brooks, board of directors, show off the new van.

Fill Ministries acquires land for aquaponics Food is grown through symbiotic relationship

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The local nonprofit Fill Ministries will soon be able to help more families now that it has acquired six acres of land.

In 2011, founder Suellen Daniels and her husband, Stephen, started Fill Ministries, the parent organization of three self-sustaining ministries, Meals

by Grace, the Resource Lab and the Job Sight.

With the new land, the group plans to set up an aquaponics farm, a place where fish are used to fertilize crops that are growing through hydroponics in a soilless environment. The groundbreaking was held Jan. 21. The first harvest is expected for May, with six total harvests throughout the year.

Besides being able to offer more in the way of food production, the group was outgrowing its current space and had its various entities spread out throughout the county.

“The purchase came about because we had so much growth that we had to move two or three times,” Daniels said. “Right now we are in the largest space we can find, but we are exceeding capacity.”

In 2016 the group fed more than 33,000 people, distributed over 350,000 pounds of food and had over 12,500 volunteers.

“God’s vision was so much bigger than ours. I was just going to feed some

Fill Ministries 2016 by the numbers • Fed 33,000 people • Distributed more than 350,000 pounds of food • 12,500 volunteers hungry kids out of my kitchen,” she said. “We had no idea the picture he had in mind.”

This is especially true considering how the Daniels started the organization.

“When Steve and I lost everything in 2010, it was a whole new world,” Daniels said. “We started mingling with people who had needs like we did and saw it was a whole different world. We had no idea this world existed in our community.”

The Daniels saw a need in the community for a home delivery food program for children and their families.

So once they got on their feet, Meals by Grace was formed.

“While we fed the children and their families and formed relationships with them, we discovered they had other needs,” Daniels said. “They had a need for basic life and job skills.”

Since day one, Daniels said she has tried to figure out how to mesh the community together, both the ones in need and the ones with resources available.

“If you were to look at what was

taking place, you couldn’t tell who was helping and who was being helped,” she said. “It’s worked. We’ve had people who come to the pantry to get food and then come back on another day to volunteer with some of the most affluent members of society.

You can’t tell the difference.”

This has given all involved a chance to learn a level of dignity and to intermingle through working with others that has made them more confident, she said.

“It makes them feel like they are a part of society, not estranged,” Daniels said.

The community played a big part in helping Daniels and the group succeed.

“I had never worked with a nonprofit,” she said. “I had to depend on the community because I didn’t know what I was doing. It was a kind of Godled thing.

As the community started coming around, Daniels said they developed the program as they went along, molding it to what the community was asking for.

“We encourage home delivery because for most social agencies, families are not real welcoming when they come to the door because they feel threatened and afraid,” Daniels said. “But when we come to the door with food, they invite us in. Little by little, we build this magical relationship. Once we build that trust it opens to door for us to offer whatever they need and help them become self-sufficient.”

To learn about Fill Ministries, visit fillministries.org.

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CASA of Forsyth County hosts 9th annual CASA Superhero Run Run will raise money for child advocacy program CUMMING, Ga. — CASA of Forsyth County, Inc. announced Jan. 11 it will hold its 9th annual CASA Superhero Run on Feb. 25. The event will be held at the Fowler Park, located at the corner of Ga. 9 and Castleberry Road in south Forsyth County. The Peachtree-qualifier course will spill out onto the Big Creek Greenway and is a flat, fast course, perfect for the serious runner, families and everyone in between.

Because the CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocate, program believes every child needs a hero, but abused children need superheroes, this CASA Superhero Run will feature a superhero theme. In addition to awards for top male and female runners, there will be a contest to recognize the best and most creative superhero costumes.

Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite superhero costume but it is not mandatory to participate in the run/walk.

The CASA Superhero Run raises much needed funding used to train volunteer child advocates who become the voice of an abused and/or neglected child in juvenile court proceedings.

The primary goals at CASA of Forsyth

County, Inc are to recruit, screen, train and supervise volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused or neglected children and to ensure the quality of volunteer advocacy for the children we serve.

Each year it costs approximately $1,200 to serve one child through the CASA program and approximately $400 to train each volunteer advocate. In 2016, 99 CASA volunteers advocated for more than 262 children in Forsyth County.

“The relationship formed between a CASA volunteer and the child becomes a stable part of an otherwise chaotic life for a child in foster care,” said Lori Pupp, executive director of CASA of Forsyth County, Inc. “So often DFCS case managers change, therapists change, schools change and placements change for the child. The CASA volunteer is the one face in the crowd that is constant during a child’s journey through the child welfare system.”

Entry fees for the CASA Superhero Run are $25 for individuals before Feb. 12 or $35 after Feb. 12. Fees for the 1K Fun Run are $10 each in advance or $15 after Feb. 12. Participants may

The 9th annual CASA Superhero run will be Feb. 25. also sign up as teams with five or more runners.

For more information, to register or to find out how to sponsor this event, visit

http://bit.ly/2iEN6Ii, North Georgia Running Company at 5456 Bethelview Road in Cumming. You can also visit forsythcountycasa.org or call CASA at 770-886-4082.

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Forsyth teacher selected to teach overseas FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Three Georgia economics teachers are traveling to Japan Feb. 16-21 to share their approach to economic education with students and teachers in Tokyo and Odate.

The team traveling to Japan consists of Mike Raymer, associate director of the Georgia Council on Economic Education in Atlanta; Stacy Dockter, advanced social studies teacher at DeSana Middle School in Forsyth County; and Angie Battle, fourth grade gifted teacher at Langston Road Elementary School in Houston County.

The focus of the trip is to demonstrate to Japanese educators how using an active-learning approach to teaching K-12 economics can increase student engagement, test scores and a deeper understanding of economic concepts.

The Council for Economic Education-Japan, the leading advocate for K-12 economic education in Japan, will host and facilitate during the five-day trip. CEE-Japan’s mission is to help Japanese teachers teach economics in new and meaningful ways so that their students gain a better understanding of economic concepts.

The Georgia Council on Economic Education was selected for this opportunity because of its long history of creating and delivering effective teacher workshops, grade specific lesson plans, and teaching materials designed to help K-12 teachers teach economics more efficiently.

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 13

From left, Chapter 1030 President Steve Masak, Gary Ely and Marty Farrell during “2016 Veteran of the Year” presentation at the Cumming Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America January monthly meeting.

Two selected for ‘Veterans of the Year’

CUMMING, Ga. — Two members of the Cumming Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America have been chosen as the group’s 2016 “Veterans of the Year.”

Steve Masak and Marty Farrell, both of Cumming, were selected by Chapter 1030 President Gary Ely for their efforts above and beyond the call of duty.

Ely said he chose Masak, a U.S. Army veteran, for what the chapter president described as “Masak’s incredible work in the area of fund raising.” Ely said that of all the funds raised by the chapter for its work on behalf of veterans, active duty military

and the community, Masak single-handedly brought in one of every six dollars collected during the 2016 fund drive.

As for member Farrell, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, The VVA chapter president lauded his work as public relations chair, as a board of directors member and as the chairman of the organization’s scholarship committee. Ely said Farrell’s work as public relations chair and as the planner and master of ceremonies of Cumming’s 2016 Veterans Day program were also worthy of recognition.

Ely, in his second year as chapter

president said that since each of these individuals have been honored with this recognition before, “it is a testament to their ongoing commitment to the work of the chapter.”

Cumming Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the Castleberry Building directly behind the Cumming Police Department Headquarters at 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard.

The meetings begin at 7PM and are open to all Vietnam Era Veterans. For information, visit vva1030-cumming. com.

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Mentor Me celebrates 15 years in Forsyth CUMMING, Ga. — Mentors were honored and Mentor Me North Georgia celebrated 15 years serving Forsyth County children during this year’s “Magic Moments” breakfast held at Lanier Technical College Forsyth Conference Center.

Mentor Me is a non-profit organization that provides one-on-one mentoring relationships between volunteer adults and children who need role models in their lives.

Sara Harrison was named female mentor of the year. Bill Schabel was male mentor of the year. Jaclyn and Stephen Bacon were couple mentors of the year.

Judge Russell Jackson also was recognized as he was a founding member of Mentor Me North Georgia and the first judge in Forsyth County to serve full time as a juvenile court judge.

The organization’s first mentormentee match in Forsyth County was made in 2002.

In 2016 match number 400 was celebrated. In addition to one-on-one mentoring, Mentor Me sponsors the REACH program where volunteers provide homework assistance, summer camps that focus on reading and language skills and Kick it Up clubs in

middle and high schools where business professionals speak to students encouraging academic and graduation success.

“We see lives changed by the positive role of mentors,” said Jayne Iglesias, board chair of Mentor Me. “We have seen our students graduate and receive scholarships. We have witnessed the relief of families as they watch their child connect with an adult. And we have seen the wide eyes of students realizing they can be successful.”

The group has served more than 2,000 children in Mentor Me programs during the past 15 years, she said.

“We are grateful for the support of our community,” Iglesias said. “But we continue to need help. Fifty children are currently on our waiting list hoping for mentors. I encourage our neighbors to consider volunteering as mentors.

You can change the life of a child.”

Most of the children in the oneon-one mentoring program live in single-parent homes, or live with grandparents or foster parents. Statistics show that children in mentoring programs are less likely to start using drugs. And they show improvement in academic performance and behavior.

Mentor Me is a Forsyth County

Couple mentors Jaclyn and Stephen Bacon with Delroy.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 15

Vietnam veterans group announces Penny Penn appointed to Board 2nd annual scholarship program of Department of Juvenile Justice CUMMING, Ga. —Cumming Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America has recently announced the application process is now open for the second annual college scholarship program.

According to President Gary Ely, applications have been sent to the various local high schools, both public and private. The program is open to Forsyth County high school seniors who are U.S. citizens and the child, grand child or great grandchild of a U.S. military veteran.

The chapter will award up to three scholarships, two to eligible high school students and one to a military veteran wishing to attend an accredited two or four year post-secondary institution. If a qualified military veteran is not chosen, the chapter will then award the third scholarship to a local high school senior.

Each scholarship is named and presented in the memory of a Vietnam War combatant killed in action.

“We are pleased to once again reward local high school students for their scholastic excellence while simultaneously honoring the memory

The program is open to Forsyth County high school seniors who are U.S. citizens and the child, grand child or great grandchild of a U.S. military veteran. of our comrades who fell in service to our country,” Ely said.

Students and parents are to consult with the student’s counselor to obtain the scholarship rules and requirements and application form.

Applications may also be obtained by calling 770-500-7234.

The chapter’s first scholarships awarded last year went to Rachel Priest of Lambert High School and Ally Williams of Fideles Christian School.

ATLANTA — Penny Penn, the district attorney for the Bell-Forsyth Judicial Circuit, was recently appointed to the Board of the Department of Juvenile Justice by Governor Nathan Deal. She will represent Congressional District 7 on the board.

“On behalf of the department, I welcome the appointment of District Attorney Penn to the DJJ Board,” said DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles. “Ms. Penn has an outstanding record in law enforcement, and her experience will be helpful to me and the entire DJJ staff.”

Penn said she is honored.

“I look forward to serving the citizens of the state by working with the other members of the board in their efforts to assist the Department of Juvenile Justice with its mission to rehabilitate youthful offenders,” she said.

Penn has served as the Bell-Forsyth Judicial Circuit District Attorney since January 2003.

She is an elected state constitutional officer charged with the prosecution of felony offenses committed in Forsyth County.

Prior to her election, Penn served as

Penny Penn is sworn in by Governor Nathan Deal. the Chief Assistant District Attorney for the Bell-Forsyth Judicial Circuit from November 1998 to January 2003.

This tax exemption equalizes typical inventory relief for warehouses that previously did not include e-commerce warehouse facilities.

LIZ HAUSMANN, Fulton Commissioner

16 | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017

Fulton County OKs Freeport tax exemption Measure targets e-commerce distribution as county becomes logistics hub

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – When the Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 21 to give a 100 percent Freeport exemption for e-commerce fulfillment centers in Fulton County, it was a clear signal to Amazon and other e-tailers, “we want your business.”

This move allows inventory of e-commerce distribution centers to have the same full tax exemption on inventories from Fulton County ad valorem (property) taxes that brick-andmortar centers already command.

Fulton County is already a huge destination point for hub distributors using Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and increased shipping via Savannah’s expanded port.

Across Georgia, growth in e-commerce is expected to attract more companies to local communities.

Fulton County, with its extensive logistic network, availability of land and a skilled workforce, already makes an attractive location for many businesses. Now it includes e-commerce businesses.

With Savannah’s expanded harbor and expanding inventory warehousing, Fulton County’s attractiveness to e-commerce can only improve.

“This tax exemption equalizes typical inventory relief for warehouses that previously did not include e-commerce warehouse facilities,” Fulton Commissioner Liz Hausmann said. “In light of growth in that industry, in light of

the relocation of UPS relocating their major Southeast Distribution Hub on Fulton Industrial Boulevard, we anticipated that this will attract the Amazontype businesses and increase jobs while improving the tax base HAUSMANN as well.”

While UPS is just the shipper of goods, its $400 million new facility will benefit from a robust e-commercial zone around it.

The exemption only applies to inventory held fewer than 12 months. Fulton Last EAVES fall, county voters overwhelmingly approved expansion of Freeport Exemptions as allowed by HB 935, adopted by the General Assembly in 2016.

“The Freeport Tax Exemption is expected to ignite job growth in Fulton County by targeting the e-commerce industry that will be a vital economic engine for decades to come,” said Hausmann, who serves as the Board of Commissioners’ executive sponsor for Economic Opportunity. “This new incentive will make Fulton County very attractive to this industry of the future.”

Fulton Commission Chairman John Eaves called the exemption “a great incentive that will continue attracting companies to Fulton County and spur

economic development.”

Business investment means Fulton jobs and tax dollars that benefit the entire county, he said.

Fulton County already offers 100 percent Freeport Tax Exemption for several categories of goods, including: • Inventory of goods in the process of manufacture or production, including finished goods and raw materials held for direct use or consumption in the taxpayer’s manufacturing or production business in Georgia.

• Inventory of finished goods manufactured or produced within the state in the ordinary course of the taxpayer’s manufacturing or production business and when held by the original manufacturer or producer of such finished goods.

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“With the expansion of the Freeport Exemption, Fulton County will maintain its position as the leading destination for e-commerce jobs and investment,” said Al Nash, CEO of Select Fulton, the county’s economic development arm.

It should also revitalize aging warehousing in the airport area that now becomes attractive to revitalize because of the airport and UPS. “Not only will this mean revamping and modernizing the facilities to keep inventory moving in and out, e-commerce facilities will employ 200 to 400 employees. Meanwhile, traditional warehouses would employ 10 people or fewer, Nash said.

“So the facilities themselves will yield a much greater ad valorem tax while improving local employment. It is a win all around for Fulton County,” Nash said.

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2017 looks huge This year, 2017, feels HUGE. Whereas the big concern last year was how well our economy could navigate around some rough global waters, this year will be more about how well GEOFF SMITH President Trump Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com will drive straight through them.

In thinking about how our economy will fare in 2017, I realize how “in the weeds” we were this time last year. We were concerned about China’s slowing growth, low oil prices and the Fed’s concern over low consumer confidence and manufacturing output. President Trump’s promises, if carried out, will shake the foundation of any and all of those details we were concerned about last year.

So, this year, all eyes will be on him, Congress and the policies they set in motion.

Immediately after being elected, the stock market jumped in volume, quickly launching the major stock indexes to their highest levels in history. Investors were confident in their understanding of what types of businesses will do well under President Trump. So they took money from safe-haven investments like bonds and mortgage-backed securities and put that money into specific stocks. This drove mortgage interest rates up by just under a full 1 percent (when bonds are bought in low volumes, mortgage rates tend to rise). The average 30-year fixed rate on a conventional mortgage started the year at about 4.25 percent, according to Mortgage News Daily.

It is always difficult to predict with accuracy how mortgage interest rates will move. But this year, investors seem confident in betting on the stock market. And the Fed raised its short-term interest rate last December by about

BUSINESSPOSTS

0.25 percent - just like it did in 2015.

But what’s different from 2015 is that Fed officials has signaled several more rate hikes throughout the year. A rise in that rate will push mortgage interest rates up further. If the stock market continues to rise, and the Fed continues to raise its rate, it is easy to imagine how mortgage interest rates could jump to near or over 5 percent by the end of the year. It is hard to imagine rates staying the same or dropping.

Having such low mortgage interest rates is a symptom of a sluggish economy. So in some ways, rising rates is a welcome sign. Back in 2008 was the first time in recorded history that rates dropped below 5 percent. So as we head into 2017, it is unfortunate for homebuyers, buy a welcome sign to see rates going up.

Consumer confidence is high, and for the first time in a long time, small business confidence is higher than it has been since 2004, according to the monthly National Federation of Independent Business Index of Small Business Optimism.

Despite any increase in interest rates, we could see a housing market on the move this year. The last five years have seen a steady decline in available housing inventory in the Atlanta market. A major reason for this is that the metro area’s economy is on fire, and people have been moving to the area faster than homebuilders could build homes. A healthy housing economy typically has around six months of inventory – meaning if no new houses came on the market, there would be no houses to sell in six months. Last year, inventory dropped to

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 17

3.5 percent. And when inventory is low, home prices rise at an unhealthy rate.

In some parts of the metro Atlanta area, home values jumped between 5 percent and 10 percent from 2015 to 2016.

The good news is that inventory seems to have bottomed out near that 3.5-month mark as a slew of new homes are finalizing construction. From January to October, Metro Atlanta ranked third in the country in the number of housing permits issued. Much of that inventory should be flooding the market early this year.

The fourth quarter of last year caught fire. According to an article published in the Atlanta Business Chronicle, 32 percent more homes were sold in November 2016 than November 2015.

Another interesting fact I heard is that just over 40 percent of all millennials currently live with their parents.

That is a huge market waiting to get into the game. If confidence keeps strong and inventory keeps coming in, we could see the most active housing market since before the Great Recession in 2008.

Geoff Smith gsmith@lendtheway.com 770-674-1433 Personal: NMLS#104587 Business: NMLS#70876 *The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of Assurance Financial Group

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Managing your to do list Are you getting all your tasks and activities completed each day? Do you feel that you don’t have enough time to get all your work done? Are things DICK JONES slipping through Founder & President Jones Simply Sales the cracks and not getting done?

Maintaining and managing a to-do list can help you get more done, and also help you focus on your top priorities.

It doesn’t matter if you are maintaining your to-do list manually or using technology, like Outlook. The important thing is that you have a process for identifying, prioritizing and documenting what you need to do each day. Start by creating a list of what you need to do. Include the time that is required to complete the task, and also the relative importance (like A, B, C). Once you have a prioritized list, you’ll be able to focus on tasks that are most important.

Some tasks are a part of a bigger project or initiative, so you’ll want to make sure they are sequenced appropriately. Other tasks take less time to complete, and when completed can free up your time to focus on more important activities. Check off the things you complete and how long it took. This will be helpful for planning recurring tasks.

You should also consider automating this process. There are hundreds of computer and mobile applications that can streamline this process and make it even more productive for you. Maintaining and managing your to-do list is a key to working more efficiently every day!

18 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

Cherry Street to expand Brewery will take over space next door

Upcoming events: • Rick Tanner’s Grille and Bar 30th anniversary Jan. 24: 30 percent off • Spring Beer Fest April 29

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County’s own local brewery, Cherry Street Brewing Cooperative, will soon be expanding.

Located at 5817 South Vickery Street in Vickery Village, the business will be taking over the space next door that currently houses the Dojo, according to owner Nick Tanner. The Dojo will move into a bigger space on the other side of the village.

“It’s working out the best for both of us,” Tanner said.

Unfortunately, a flood at Vickery Village has closed some of the businesses and pushed the opening of the taproom expansion.

But that isn’t stopping Tanner from looking forward.

“The expansion will allow us to double our seating capacity for the taproom,” he said. “This will allow us to breathe a little bit and not feel so jammed tight there in certain times.”

More room will also mean more private parties, banquets and events.

One of the tastiest results of the expansion is that the brewery can expand its barrel-aging program, which Cherry Street is known for.

“We take bourbon and wine barrels and age our beer in them to acquire characteristics from the previous liquor or wine,” Tanner said.

Additionally, the brewery can take in more brewing tanks to increase production by about 50 percent.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Cherry Street’s expansion will allow the business to increase production by 50 percent, as well as have more room for people to enjoy the beers.

Cherry Street has already begun releasing bottled beer into the market, but the expansion will allow the group to consistently produce bottles for the local liquor stores.

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHTS

“It’s a really nice expansion for us,” Tanner said. “That little bit of space is actually allowing us to do a lot more.”

To learn more about Cherry Street, visit cherrystreetbrewing.com.

BUSINESSBRIEF Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists expands to Cumming

CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics comes to Johns Creek Business name: CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics Owner: Dr. Taz Bhatia About: CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics has a full team of board-certified providers who are conventionally-trained, but diagnose and treat patients by pulling from conventional, integrative, holistic and functional medicine to create the best customized treatment plans possible. The Johns Creek location is a full-service pediatric facility that also provides adult care.

Opened: Jan. 17, 2017 Address: 10220 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Phone: 404-814-9808 Website: www.centrespringmd.com

Southern Baked Pie Company opens in Alpharetta Business name: Southern Baked Pie Company Owner: Amanda Wilbanks About: With family recipes, Southern charm and an all-butter pie dough that melts in your mouth, Amanda Wilbanks and her team of bakers create gourmet sweet and savory pies for all of life’s special occasions and celebrations. Southern Baked Pie Company masterfully creates a variety of decadent flavors and specialty selections utilizing seasonal fresh fruit from local Georgia farmers and businesses. Pies come in a variety of sizes including: whole pies, petite pies, and bite-size tassies.

Opened: Nov. 18, 2016 Address: 2685 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 130, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Phone: 678-254-0598 Website: www.southernbakedpie.com

CUMMING, Ga. — Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists doctors and its staff are expanding their services to Forsyth County.

A new location has opened at 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 310, in Cumming.

This will mark the second location for Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists. The first is at 3400 Old Milton HARLEY Parkway, Suite 500, Building A in Alpharetta.

Dr. Brian Harley and his team treat sports medicine patients and those who suffer from ankle and foot fractures, conditions or deformities as well as flat feet, high arches, heel and arch pain, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, hammertoes and arthritis. Some patients require conservative options, while others need to undergo surgical procedures.

Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists specializes in minimally invasive procedures and is at the forefront of the latest technologies in surgery that promote healing, shorten recovery times, decreased pain and a return of the patients to regular activities as soon as possible.

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YOUR NEWS! YOUR PHOTOS!

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 19

When it’s your child, nothing’s more urgent.

When your pediatrician is unavailable, our Urgent Care Centers are open 7 days a week, including holidays. Because when they’re not feeling well, the last thing you want to do is wait.

CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH

410 PEACHTREE PKWY, SUITE 300, CUMMING

©2017 Children’s Children s Healthcare of Atlanta Atlanta, Inc Inc. All rights reserved reserved.

choa.org/urgentcare

20 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

CALENDAR

“I, TOO, AM AMERICAN”

Join for the free opening reception of “I, Too, Am American,” a multimedia exhibition by local artists exploring the experience of being black in America. There will be live music and opportunities to discuss the works with the artists. The reception will be held Saturday, Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m. at the Johns Creek Art Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek. For more information, visit johnscreekarts.org.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton. com/Calendar.

EVENTS: ROSWELL RESTAURANT WEEK

Sample the best culinary experiences that Roswell’s restaurants have to offer.

Enjoy a diverse selection of food from dozens of local restaurants that will all have special chef-driven prix fixe menus for one week only. See a full list of participating restaurants online.

Restaurant week will span Jan. 23-Feb. 1 and will include local restaurants across Roswell. For more information, including menus and locations, visit roswellrw.com.

INTERNATIONAL FILM NIGHT

What: Enjoy a free showing of “Amour,” a 2012 French romantic drama following the lives of an octogenarian couple whose bond is tested when one of them has a stroke. Popcorn and drinks will be provided.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 5 p.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov/parkplace or 678-512-3430

FAMILY TO FAMILY

What: This free 11 session course offered to family and friends who have a loved one with a mental illness and is designed to help people understand and support their loved ones while maintaining their own sense of wellbeing.

When: Monday, Jan. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Creekside United Methodist Church, 673 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming More info: 678-947-6156

What: The public is invited to provide input regarding revitalization, economic development and transportation opportunities along Holcomb Bridge Road, from Highway 9 to the Gwinnet County line.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: 770-594-6288

JC CHAMBER MEMBER GALA

What: Perimeter School invites everyone to learn from best-selling author and leading parenting authority, Dr. Tim Elmore, about common parenting mistakes and how to successfully prepare children for their lives.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Perimeter Church, 9500 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

TOUR OF INDEPENDENT FILMAKERS

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:

What: Enjoy a showing of “Mind/Game: The Unquiet Journey of Chamique Holdsclaw,” which follows the journey of “the female Michael Jordon” as she emerges as a mental health advocate.

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, 7-10 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

DISNEY’S PETER PAN JR.

What: Fly away to Neverland with Peter and the Darling children in an adaptation of Disney’s animated film presented by the Roswell Youth Theater.

When: Jan. 27, 7 p.m.; Jan. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

LIBRARY EVENTS:

FINE ARTS ALLIANCE RECEPTION

What: Celebrate the opening of the Roswell Fine Arts Alliance’s fourth annual Juried Invitational Show with this opening reception. James Taylor, a nationally-known artist, is the jurist.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

Where: 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: rfaa.org

UNITY CONCERT

What: Hear the voices of choirs from several area churches as they perform their favorite selections in this free concert presented by the Roswell Roots Festival, with special guest The Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 3-5 p.m.

Where: Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 888 Zion Circle, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com or 770-6413705

ROSWELL LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: The Friends of the Roswell Library will be selling books, DVDs and CDs. All proceeds will go directly to the library for materials and community programs.

When: Jan. 26-28, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Jan 29, 2-5:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross Street, Roswell More info: forl.net

NORTHEAST SPRUILL OAKS LIBRARY BOOK SALE What: A wide range of children’s, teen and adult fiction a variety of media will be on sale. A “Members Only Preview Sale” will be held Thursday, Jan. 26, 1-5 p.m. Volunteers are needed.

When: Jan. 27-29, times vary Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info: afpls.org or 770-360-8820

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS PROCESS PRESENTATION

HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD REVITALIZATION

What: The Johns Creek Chamber will be holding its 2017 Chamber Member Appreciation Gala - The Big Bash with cocktails, dinner and dancing.

Entertainment provided by the Infinity Show Band.

When: Friday, Feb. 3, 6-11 p.m.

Where: Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek Cost: Tickets start at $150 More info and tickets: bit.ly/2hEANvm or 770-495-0545

PARENTING DISCUSSION

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: $12 More info and tickets: lkelley@ roswellgov.com or 770-641-3987

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: GEORGE GRAY

What: Come see the works of lifetime artist and Johns Creek resident George Gray. Gray has spent over 40 years of photo retouching by hand.

When: Jan. 2-30, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: behance.net/georgegray

VALENTINE’S DAY HARP CONCERT

What: Get in the mood and celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a harp concert presented by Lisa Handman. All ages are welcome to this free concert.

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: michael.salpeter@ fultoncountyga.gov or 404-613-6735

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: GREG FERGUSON What: “Bearing Witness” The Photography of Greg Ferguson will showcase Ferguson’s award-winning photography of the natural world.

When: Through March 31, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: gregferguson.us.com or 770594-6232

What: An independent consultant from College Process Consulting will present a free program designed for high school students and their parents on navigating the college admissions process.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info and registration: laura. hoefener@fultoncountyga.gov or 770360-8820

BADGER & FOX BOOK CLUB

What: Children ages 9-12 are invited to participate in this book club to discuss books and play team trivia. Snacks are included in the meetings and copies of the books are reserved at the front desk.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: liane.wagner@ fultoncountyga.gov

REFLECTIONS ON THE HOLOCAUST

What: In honor of Germany: Day of Remembrance for Victims of Nazism, Dr. Eugen Schoenfeld, a survivor of the concentration camps, will discuss his life before, during and after the holocaust.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-6735

VISION BOARD PARTY

What: Learn about vision boards and the benefits of creating one.

Pizza, snacks and refreshments will be provided. This workshop is for teenagers only and registration is required.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info: afpls.org

CHINESE ASTROLOGY

What: Learn about the system of Chinese Astrology and the differences from Western Astrology.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: milton.branch@ fultoncountyga.gov or 404-613-4402

PET ADOPTIONS:

FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER What: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd.

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: BOOTH BROTHERS

What: Come see the award-winning Southern Gospel music trio, the Booth Brothers, live in concert as they stop by Georgia in their nation-wide tour.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 6 p.m.

Where: Elizabeth Baptist Church, 315 Kurtz Road, Marietta More info and tickets: 770-617-0359

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA:

Enjoy free history on Feb. 5

Years ago, back in the previous millennium (as my kids put it), when I was but a young ‘un, there was a phrase you’d hear from time to time.

It was just three words, but whenSTEVE HUDSON ever they were Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net spoken, you could be sure folks would perk up their ears and listen.

The words were: “the people’s price.”

Back in that long-ago day (well, it wasn’t really that long ago), “the people’s price” was a way of saying that something was free. No charge.

Gratis.

In other words, it didn’t cost anything.

Now, let’s be honest here. Stuff that’s really and truly free was pretty rare then and is pretty rare these days, too. And in many cases, when something’s free, you get what you paid for.

But not always. Once in a while a real bargain comes along, and for folks who enjoy not only bargains but also exploring the richness of Georgia’s historic sites, there’s a truly outstandingly good deal coming up on Sunday, Feb. 5.

The occasion?

It’s “Super Museum Sunday,” part of the Georgia Historical Society’s Georgia History Festival.

So you aren’t familiar with the Georgia History Festival? Neither was I. According to georgiahistoryfestival. org, the official website of the Georgia History Festival, the festival “is the signature K-12 educational program of the Georgia Historical Society.”

It includes a wide range of public programs, exhibits, in-school events and educational resources designed to “bring history to life for students of all ages and encourage Georgians to explore the richness and diversity of our state’s past.”

On Super Museum Sunday, the State Parks and Historic Sites Division of Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources will waive the usual admission fees at many of the state’s historic sites and will be offering free admission. It’s a see-for-free opportunity that is definitely not to be missed.

What sorts of experiences await you on that people’s price day?

“Visitors can walk in the footsteps of Civil War and Revolutionary War soldiers, tour FDR’s modest cottage,

Feb. 5 is “Super Museum Sunday” where numerous historical sites will offer free admission, including The Dahlonega Gold Museum. explore plantations, climb to the top of an Indian mound and experience more during this annual event,” according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

It won’t be hard to find a place to visit, either, as participating sites are scattered across the state from the mountains down to the coast. Some of these historic sites are generally closed on Sundays, but they’ll be open for “Super Museum Sunday.” Here’s a list of participating sites, along with their hours of operation that day: • Chief Vann House Historic Site (Chatsworth) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site (Dahlonega) – 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

• Fort King George Historic Site (Darien) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Fort McAllister State Park (Richmond Hill) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Fort Morris Historic Site (Midway) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site (Brunswick) — 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Jarrell Plantation Historic Site (Juliette) – Noon – 4 p.m.

• Kolomoki Mounds State Park (Blakely) — 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Lawton Museum at Magnolia Springs State Park (Millen) – 9 a.m.

– 5 p.m.

• Liberty Hall at A.H. Stephens State Park (Crawfordville) — 9 – 5 p.m.

• New Echota Historic Site (Calhoun) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site (Warm Springs) – 9 a.m.

- 4:45 p.m.

• Travelers Rest Historic Site (Toccoa) — 9 – 5 p.m.

• Wormsloe Historic Site (Savannah) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

There’s no doubt about it. Super Museum Sunday offers an outstanding opportunity for you to take a little road trip, visit one of Georgia’s great historic sites and have a great time while learning about our state’s history too – for free! I’m planning to check out several of the sites myself, and I hope I’ll see you there.

To learn more about the Georgia History Festival and related events and activities, visit GeorgiaHistoryFestival. org.

Now is a perfect time of year to explore the great hiking trails along the Chattahoochee River. Learn about these trails in Steve Hudson’s book HIKING THE HOOCH, a complete guide to the incredible hiking opportunities awaiting you within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Check out HIKING THE HOOCH at local outfitters, on Amazon, or at www. chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

22 | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017

Sponsored Section

Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is the new signature in senior living For people who have reservations about moving to a senior community, seeing the beautiful and convenient lifestyle at Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is eye opening and a refreshing alternative to what most people envision a senior community to look and feel like.

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Residents at Arbor Terrace are neighbors, volunteers, explorers and learners who have chef-prepared meals every day and access to lifestyle and wellness amenities that provide convenience and enrich their day to day life.

The 101-apartment community is situated in one of the most desirable areas in Johns Creek, the community is close to healthcare, cultural venues, fine shopping and dining. Arbor Terrace is a one-of-a-kind community offering a luxurious lifestyle with concierge services, chef-prepared meals,

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Alpharetta Roswell Herald | Forsyth Herald | Johns Creek Herald | Milton Herald

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 23

A homecoming: Dr. Brent Taylor returns to Alpharetta and brings excellence back home Family, friends and the communities of north Atlanta are celebrating as Dr. Brent Taylor and his family have returned home to where they grew up and are starting a first-class dermatology, Mohs surgery and vein care practice.

Brent grew up in Roswell and attended Marist School where he was valedictorian. His wife Ashley was born and raised in Alpharetta and graduated from Milton High School. Together the Taylors are raising two rambunctious boys, Beckett 3, and Gavin 1.

After completing twelve years of higher education, Dr. Taylor and his family explored life in Florida. He practiced as the Mohs surgeon at University of Florida in Gainesville and worked in the busiest private practice in Jacksonville, Florida. The desire to be with family and friends drew Dr. Taylor and his family home to north Atlanta. They are opening a practice in Alpharetta to serve the community that has for so long supported them.

Dr. Taylor’s resume is impressive to say the least. He graduated from Harvard College in 3 years and attended

Vanderbilt School of Medicine on a full, merit-based scholarship.

He received his first choices for postgraduate training and was able to work with renowned Mohs surgeons during both his residency at the TAYLOR Medical University of South Carolina and during his ACGME accredited fellowship in procedural dermatology at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California. He is double-boarded, board certified in dermatology and certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in vein care. He is one of the first Mohs surgeons in Georgia to offer true Mohs surgery for melanoma with in-office specialized stains to detect cancer cells and maximize a patient’s chance of cure. Melanoma patients are treated and, in most cases, repaired within a single day. Generally, no outside pathology is needed.

Training by celebrated cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Leland Housman and cosmetic and laser dermatologist Dr.

Vic Ross, both of La Jolla, California, has enabled Dr. Taylor to offer truly state-of-the-art vein care for medically significant vein disease and cosmetic spider veins alike. Depending on an individual patient’s findings, a combination of endovenous laser ablation, foam or liquid sclerotherapy, phlebectomy, and light-based devices help restore patients’ veins to as good as new.

Dr. Taylor’s practice, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, opens January 30th 2017 in the Gates at North Point development, on the cor-

ner of North Point Parkway and Webb Bridge Road. He offers comprehensive dermatology services from skin exams to Mohs surgery, advanced minimally invasive vein treatment procedures and cosmetic services including Botox and fillers. Consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta for you and your loved ones’ skin care needs.

Congratulations to Dr. Taylor and Premier Dermatology!

To learn more about Dr. Taylor, visit him online at www.premierdermatologyatlanta.com

24 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

A healthy, fun social life doesn’t need to end at the retirement threshold

By Brooke Wal Sales Manager, Celebration Village There’s no denying that as you age, social interactions can decline. If you’re not heading to an office or getting out and about each day, you may be missing out on important social interaction that keep you sharp, healthy, and maybe even ward off looming medical risks or dementia.

Research has proven the many benefits that social interaction offers older adults. Staying socially engaged and maintaining interpersonal relationships can help you sustain good physical and emotional health, and cognitive function. By continuing close friendships and finding ways to interact socially helps people—especially older adults—to live longer than those who are isolated. Relationships and social interactions can even help protect against illness by boosting your immune system.

There are far too many benefits of being in community with other people than can be listed, but a short list includes reduction in the risk of cardiovascular problems, some cancers, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, high blood pressure and depression. It helps keep your brain from getting rusty, but it’s most effective when coupled with an overall healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet and physical activity.

So rather than shedding family, friends and hobbies as you age—which can hurt our mental and physical health— why not find a retirement community designed to facilitate social connections?

A local example of this type of community is Celebration Village, a stateof-the-art, full-service independent living community being built in Forsyth and Acworth. With the foundation built on promoting an upbeat lifestyle, independence, optimism and successful aging for seniors, these communities are definitely worth taking a second glance. The most unique feature is The Celebration Club, the heart of activity and lifestyle that houses all Village services, offerings and amenities in one central location. The club-style amenities with distinctive, innovative design features creates an upscale, inspiring social environment for both their residents and non-residents alike.

If you’ve taken a cruise before, you’ll definitely enjoy The Celebration Club’s cruise ship-like epicenter layout, designed to enable interaction and create environments that inspire exploration of common interests, and synergies

There are far too many benefits of being in community with other people than can be listed, but a short list includes reduction in the risk of cardiovascular problems, some cancers, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, high blood pressure and depression. amongst the residents and guests.

Whether it’s a cooking class at the Chef’s Corner, a game of billiards or Wii tournament at Frank’s Game Parlor, a watercolor class in the Art Studio or just the stimulating sights, sounds and tastes this central hub will evoke, the social engagement is a proven factor to successful and healthful aging. Every day at Celebration Village will focus on “CELEBRATING LIFE,” allowing residents to remember the life they have been blessed with as well as the life they are living today.

Find ways to stay young at heart, stimulated, busy—and out and about in your community because a healthy, fun social life doesn’t need to end at the retirement threshold.

Opening in Forsyth County and Acworth Spring 2017, Celebration Village is proud to be built and managed with the founders of Masterpiece Living, and embodies the findings of successful aging to help residents age successfully, and ultimately celebrate living longer, healthier, happier lives.

Celebration Village, developed by Active Senior Concepts (ASC) and AgeWell Living, has professionally designed and programmed an extensive variety of environments and services that promote continued physical, intellectual, social and spiritual growth, proven to dramatically slow the inevitable deterioration and depression associated with older age. The entire master-planned village from the resident homes, to the shopping shuttle express buses to the Celebration “Social” Club provides an abundance of positive, upbeat and stimulating environments designed to empower seniors to remain optimistic and in control of their own lives.

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 25

Now Accepting Patients Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

N. Atlanta Welcomes Dr. Brent Taylor Insist on the BEST Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care. His education and work experience include: • Marist School – Valedictorian • Harvard College – Bachelor of Arts in Biochemical Sciences Graduated in 3 years Magna Cum Laude • Vanderbilt School of Medicine – Doctorate of Medicine Attended on a Full, Merit-Based Scholarship • Medical University of South Carolina – Dermatology Residency; Chief Resident • ACGME-Accredited Fellowship in Mohs surgery, Procedural Dermatology, and Vein Care at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California.

Dr. Taylor has performed thousands of Mohs surgeries and reconstructions, dermatologic surgeries and procedures while in private practice in Florida where local and even international patients have sought him out for the best care. He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables. He now brings his highly sought after expertise back home to Alpharetta with the opening of Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta! Now Accepting Patients.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Taylor Today.

Dr. Brent Taylor

Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

26 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

BUNGALOWS • COTTAGES INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE

NEXT-LEVEL SENIOR LIVING

Delos and Margaret Knight are longtime residents of Alpharetta and have decided to downsize their home and move into Village Park of Alpharetta.

What made you choose Village Park of Alpharetta, Mr. Knight?

678-740-3499 villageparkseniorliving.com

12300 Morris Road, Alphare�a, GA 30005

“I have seen other projects by Tim Gary and extremely impressed with his quality of work and the layout of the project. I just knew this one will be just as good as his other projects.”

“I also appreciate the fact that Village Park has a wide selection of accommodations, everything from our roomy Bungalow to the Cottages to the apartments which offer independent living, assisted living and memory care. With that, there is everything you can ever want in one community, right here!

What are you looking forward to the most about moving into Village Park, Mrs. Knight?

“The convenience of the location and the fact that you are near Avalon, which is a wonderful place for entertainment, restaurants, shopping and it is right around the corner. Guess What? We can even walk there from Village Park and enjoy it more often.”

Village Park is the NEXT-LEVEL SENIOR LIVING community currently under construction on the corner of Webb Bridge Road and Morris Road.

The community plans to open in late Spring of 2017 and currently taking reservations. Call Carla Breakwell at 678-740-3499 for more information or go to villageparkseniorliving.com.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 27

Reach 5 of the top 10 wealthiest communities in Ga. 2016 An Appen Med

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28 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Arrests: Continued from Page 2

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Cumming for DUI, open container, failure to obey a traffic control device, drugs not kept in original container and possession of a schedule II controlled substance. ►► Alejandro Romero-Soto, 37, of Canton Highway, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 13 on Canton Highway in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and no license. ►► Phillip Mark Bartoe Jr., 52, of Beechwood Blvd. NW, Gainesville, was arrested Jan. 14 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Douglas Todd Laponzina, 42, of Pine Ridge Circle, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 11 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and too fast for conditions. ►► Thomas Anthony Fusco, 32, of Grand Reunion Drive, Hoschton, was arrested Jan. 14 on Little Mill Road in Gainesville for DUI and failure to main-

tain lane. ►► Vicky Ann Miller, 55, of Kenwood Drive, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 14 on Kenwood Drive in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Esteban Andres Salvatierra, 32, of Biscayne Drive, Atlanta, was arrested Jan. 17 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI, no brake lights and suspended license.

Drug arrests

►► Quin Velle Quarles, 27, of Crystal

Cove Trail, Gainesville, was arrested Jan. 12 on Antler Drive in Gainesville for possession of marijuana, tag light violation, speeding, failure to maintain lane and attempting to elude police. ►► Donald David Reichert Sr., 59, of Parks Road, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 13 on Keith Bridge Road in Cumming for possession of a schedule II controlled substance. ►► Deshun Lee, 43, of Norwalk Trace, Lawrenceville, was arrested Jan. 16 on Bannister Road in Cumming for possession of cocaine, wanted person and failure to maintain lane.

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Winner 3 years in a Row Voted Best Orthodontist in North Fulton and South Forsyth

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SPORTS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 29

Teammates, friends, All-Americans St. Francis’ Dodson, Kushkituah named McDonald’s All-Americans

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Only one school will be sending two players to the girls McDonald’s All-American Game this year — St. Francis.

Seniors Maya Dodson and Kasiyahna Kushkituah were both named McDonald’s All-Americans and will play their final game together on the national stage at the McDonald’s All-American game on March 29 in Chicago’s United Center. Dodson and Kushkituah become the second and third St. Francis players to earn the accolade in the past two years after boys player Kobi Simmons was named All-American for 2016.

Not only do Dodson and Kushkituah share the accolade as teammates, they also share it as close friends.

“I’ve known Kasi since sophomore year and we have been best friends,” Dodson said. “It’s awesome to have someone you know that works hard and who you work hard with to accomplish something they deserve. It’s going to be awesome to be out there playing on the same team just like in high school.”

Kushkituah said, “I am very excited to be playing with Maya. Being named All-Americans was a goal we both had, so the fact that we were able to accomplish that together means so much to me. She is one of my best friends and I love spending time with her on and off the court.”

Being named an All-American is not the first major award for either player.

Dodson, a Stanford commit, played for Team USA’s U17 National Team last summer, was named to the 2015 AllState team and was named to the Class

DEATH NOTICES Randall Allan Atkins, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Alta Catherine Bagwell, 92, of Cumming, passed away January 12, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Douglas Roney Bearden, 76, of Cumming, passed away January 16, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Donald Anthony Cottongim, 82, of Cumming, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

I’ve seen all these other girls I’ve known become All-Americans, and I wanted to accomplish that too.

In the beginning of the season I made that a top goal and I worked very hard for it.”

KASIYAHNA KUSHKITUAH McDonald’s All American

St. Francis seniors Maya Dodson left and Kasiyahna Kushkituah right are joined by St. Francis head coach Aisha Kennedy after being named McDonald’s All-Americans. The teammates will play in the All-American Game March 29 in Chicago’s United Center.

6-A All-Region team in 2014 and 2015.

Kushkituah was named to the 2016 AllGeorgia team, was the 2015 All-North Fulton Basketball Player of the Year and was on the 2016 Naismith Trophy watch list. Kushkituah has committed to the University of Tennessee.

Though many accolades proceeded it, Dodson said her nomination to the All-American team was a childhood

dream come true.

“It’s an honor. I remember watching the All-American game when I was younger and thinking how cool it was to be in high school and to be named one the best players in the country and have the opportunity to play with the best in the country.”

Kushkituah said she was ecstatic to reach her goal of being named to the

Edna Frances DeHart, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away January 17, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Ruby Norwood, of Roswell, passed away January 11, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Dianne Donnarumma, 59, of Alpharetta, passed away January 10, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

team.

“I’ve seen all these other girls I’ve known become All-Americans, and I wanted to accomplish that too. In the beginning of the season I made that a top goal and I worked very hard for it,” she said.

With St. Francis, Dodson is approaching 1,000 career points at the varsity level. She has compiled over 500 rebounds, 143 steals and 173 blocks.

Kushkituah has 700 career rebounds and has scored 1,033 points.

Not only will the St. Francis’ teammates have one another to share in the pageantry of the All-American game — both players will be playing with former AAU teammates and Kushkituah will be joining three fellow Tennessee commits.

For both players, it will be the final chance to play on the same team before they part ways for their respective colleges, and both said they are thrilled for the opportunity.

The All-American game will be televised live on ESPN March 29.

John T. Schmitz, 28, of Cumming, passed away January 10, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Billy Ray Stancil, 39, of Cumming, passed away January 17, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Cletis Ralph Fritts, Sr., 80, of Roswell, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Ralph G. Outler, Jr., 63, of Cumming, passed away January 13, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Norris W. Martin, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Terry Neal Payne, 55, of Cumming, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Oscar Montero, 79, of Cumming, passed away January 15, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Joan M. Sanborn, 83, of Roswell, passed away January 16, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Joseph Leonard Swofford, 73, of Suwanee, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dawn Thackery, 51, of Cumming, passed away January 12, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dennie Banks Triller, 73, of Cummng, passed away January 13, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

30 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Now Hiring: Advertising Sales Executive Job Description & Duties: Appen Media Group is hiring sales executives for the marketing and advertising department. Primary responsibilities will be managing a book of existing business by consulting on and selling advertising campaigns, and growing the existing book of business through cold calling and networking.

QualiďŹ cations: Must be ambitious, hard working, good with people, and goal oriented.

Previous sales experience preferred, but not required. Compensation: Base salary of $18,200/ year with aggressive monthly commission. Full medical benefits, matching 401k and PTO. About Appen Media Group: Appen Media Group is a multimedia news company with a focus on print newspapers. AMG publishes

four weekly newspapers in the north Fulton and south Forsyth markets totaling 75,000 in circulation per week. In addition to its weekly coverage, AMG also publishes the monthly womens magazine, Northside Woman, as well as quarterly community guides, called Answer Books. Digitally, AMG has a vast online presences through various social media platforms and through its operation of northfulton.com and northsidewoman.com.

Email a resume and cover letter to: christina@appenmediagroup.com and CC hans@appenmediagroup.com.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 31

® HANDYMAN REMODELING

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32 | January 26, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

THE CRUISE GIVEAWAY IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! 3rd Annual

Appen Cruise Giveaway January 19th - February 23rd, 2017

ATTENTION READERS!

2016 Winners Jeff & Elise Baggett

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We are kicking off 2017 by giving away a

FREE CRUISE!

$2,000 toward the cruise of your dreams!

It’s easy to enter – follow the steps below.

LOOK for the Expedia Cruise logo that looks like this, hidden throughout the papers each week.

GO to Northfulton.com CLICK “Enter to Win” icon TELL us which page number the logo is on WATCH your email on March 6th to see if you have won a Free Cruise! * Winner will be drawn March 6th 2017

“Our cruise was fantastic! We sailed on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, trans-Atlantic from New York to Southampton England in October.

We were at sea for 6 days and loved how relaxing it was. It was a jazz cruise and we enjoyed the music. We especially loved the British food and afternoon tea and met many wonderful people.”

– Jeff and Elise Baggett

10945 State Bridge Rd., Ste 105 cruiseshipcenters.com/Alpharetta (678) 712-5059

Sponsored by:

Cruise winner will be drawn and notified via email Monday March 7th.

One entry per household, per week.