Forsyth Herald - February 8, 2018

SP Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 8 | 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 1 , N o . 6

EC PA IA GE L R S EP 6 OR -7 T ,

Community fights flu epidemic ►►PAGE 4

Teens create mental health app ►►PAGE 37

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Forsyth Schools names Teacher of the Year finalists Elementary School Teacher of the Year Becky Morris from Shiloh Point Elementary School is swarmed with hugs by her students after they learn she is a finalist. Story page 14.

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 41-year-old woman scared away an intruder at her home off Bettis Tribble Gap Road when she inadvertently confronted the man.

The woman was in her bedroom playing a game on her tablet when she heard the front door open. She said she was expecting her sister to come home, so she didn’t think anything of it initially. But after a few minutes passed, she went to her sister’s room and found it empty.

She went into the kitchen and found a 30-year-old His-

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Man nearly crushed by car after dispute over doughnut FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The owner of a gas station on Buford Dam Road was nearly run over recently after a man reportedly stole a doughnut.

The 46-year-old owner told deputies he went to confront the apparent thief about the theft of a honeybun doughnut. The two argued in the parking lot before the 23-year-old suspect reportedly drove backward toward the owner.

Deputies said if the owner hadn’t moved, he would have been struck in the legs.

The car was stopped inches from the owner. A lieutenant at the scene said he heard the suspect say he was going to kill the manager.

The suspect was arrested for theft by shoplifting and for aggravated assault and terroristic threats against the store attendant. He was also charged with two counts of terroristic threats against both officers on scene after saying he would kill them.

Couple reports dog stolen while leashed on porch FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A family pet was reportedly stolen off a front porch recently while the family was inside.

The owners said their 1-year-old German shepherd was taken off his leash that was attached to the porch at the home off Crystal Cove Trail. The husband, 19, said he last saw the dog at 9 p.m. When his wife came home at 10 p.m. the dog was gone.

The husband said he only had the dog for a few days and he didn’t find a broken collar or leash.

The dog did not have a microchip implanted.

He suspected his neighbors took the

panic male at her refrigerator with the door open. The two didn’t speak, and she immediately called 911. He then ran out the front door.

She didn’t believe anything was taken from the home and said she knows her neighbors and the people who work at a shop nearby, but didn’t recognize the man.

A K9 was deployed to track the suspect, but the animal was unable to help.

dog because they reportedly went inside quickly when the wife saw the dog was stolen. The neighbors could not be reached.

Man loses $160 over fake tickets ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A man contacted police Jan. 23 after he lost $160 in a scam.

The man had searched on Craigslist two days earlier for tickets to “The Lion King” at the Fox Theatre. When he found a seller, the man contacted him over text messages and negotiated a price of $160 for two tickets to the show.

The seller told the man to pay him through an online app called Zelle that is similar to PayPal. After the man researched Zelle and determined that it was safe to use, he sent the money.

The seller told the man that e-tickets would be sent to him after the funds had arrived.

However, the man never received the tickets.

The man made several attempts to contact the seller but never got a response.

The ad for the tickets was removed on Craigslist, but several new ads had been posted.

The man’s bank told him that he would need a police report before they could get involved.

Teen loses shoes over app exchange JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A teenager reported Jan. 10 that a pair of shoes he was selling through an app were stolen when he met with potential buyers.

The teenager had listed the black and white Nike Air Jordan 10s, worth $140, on the Let It GO app and had agreed to meet with a man at 5 p.m. in front of the Oh Pharmacy on Medlock Bridge Road.

When he arrived, the teenager saw two men, both approximately 5’11” tall with slender builds.

One of the men asked to look at the shoes, and after inspecting them,

snatched the shoes and ran.

Employees at one of the nearby restaurants told police that one of the suspects appeared to be a regular in their location and provided a receipt for a purchase possibly made by the suspect.

$5K of materials stolen from construction site JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Employees at the Reynold Construction yard on Old Alabama Road reported Jan. 22 that $5,000 worth of construction tools and materials had been stolen recently.

One of the trailers and four storage containers appeared to have been burglarized. The assistant project manager told police that the trailer and containers had been locked and secured Jan. 19 before he left for the weekend. But when he returned at 8 a.m. on Monday, several tools were gone.

Bolts on two of the storage containers appeared to have been cut while the trailer door appeared to have been pried open, police said.

In addition to the stolen items, several shovels and sledge hammers that were missing were found along the tree line behind the trailer.

Family stops attempted burglary ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A family called 911 Jan. 28 shortly after midnight to report an attempted break-in.

The homeowner on Melbourne Trail told police that the family was sleeping upstairs, when they were woken up by a loud boom downstairs.

When he went downstairs, the homeowner found the front door damaged, but nothing was missing from the house. The damage to the door is valued at $500.

A neighbor informed police about a similar incident the previous night. His security camera picked up two male suspects who kicked open his front storm door.

The neighbor’s son said he heard the suspects making barking noises as they ran away and saw a white passenger car, possibly a BMW, speed away.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 3

Food Allergy Desensitization Q & A with Dr. Thomas Chacko Rated one of the Top Allergists in Atlanta and selected for the cover of Atlanta Top Doctor Magazine, Dr. Thomas Chacko is Atlanta’s expert in Allergies and Asthma. With recent speaking opportunities on CNN, HLN, WebMD, and Fox News, Dr. Chacko is sought after nationally for his expertise in all areas of adult and pediatric allergy and immunology.

Dr. Chacko has lectured throughout the Southeast on food allergies. He is one of a few allergists offering oral immunotherapy (OIT) for food allergies.

Why do you have a special interest in food allergies?

Food allergies can be one of the scariest things for patients and families. This can have a significant impact on their quality of life. For decades, our only recommendations were to avoid the allergen as well as to have an epinephrine auto-injector. Newer data has changed the landscape and allowed us to be more proactive about treatment.

What is oral immunotherapy (OIT)?

Oral immunotherapy desensitizes children & adults to their food allergens. By consuming the allergen regularly patients’ immune systems adapt to the allergen that formerly would have caused a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction.

How do I know if food desensitization is the right choice for my child?

The decision to begin desensitization is based on a variety of factors. These include risk of reaction to accidental ingestion, difficulty in avoiding the allergen, and a number of quality of life issues (anxiety, ability to participate fully in school, sports and family/social activities,

etc.). One of my patients had a life threatening reaction to milk and had to have a helicopter take her to CHOA for such a severe reaction. Now, she is tolerating over 1 glass of milk daily. It has made a huge change in their quality of life.

What is the goal of this treatment?

The primary goal of this treatment is to prevent any life threatening accidents. This is generally the concern for most patients with peanut or tree nut allergies. Almost daily, we have patients who are severely allergic to peanut tolerate 1-2 peanuts in our office. In some patients, we are able to introduce full servings of the previously allergic foods, such as with milk.

Do all allergists offer this treatment?

No. Only a handful of allergists in the country offer this treatment. There are currently ongoing trials to get FDA approval for treatments for food allergy desensitization. Some are waiting from the data and the recommendations based on those trials.

I’ve researched this topic for some years prior to offering this therapy. The data as well as my experience desensitizing patients has made me very excited to offer this therapy for the right patients.

To be further evaluated for food allergies and/or to learn more about oral immunotherapy, please visit us at www.GeorgiaENT.com.

Don’t Fear Food Allergies

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Multiple office locations in North Atlanta Please call 770-475-3361 to schedule

NEWS

4 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Flu epidemic sweeps across Georgia

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com GEORGIA — The flu is spreading quickly across Georgia and Metro Atlanta. This year’s flu season, which began in October, is one of the most severe in years, according to state health officials. As of Feb. 3, 51 people have died in Georgia, including a 5-year-old Marietta boy and a 15-year-old girl from Coweta County who died from complications brought on by the flu.

The Georgia Department of Public Health says the influenza A strain can be particularly hard on the very young, people over the age of 65 and those with preexisting medical conditions.

Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and

School districts monitor student absence rates Schools, where one of the most vulnerable groups congregate, are taking precautions for their population.

Forsyth County Schools Director of Communications Jennifer Caracciolo said they are aware of the increase in illness in the county. School nurses document physician-confirmed cases of the flu, which are communicated to and monitored by the Forsyth County nurse, she said.

Additionally, when 10 percent of a school population is out sick for any reason, the county nurse notifies the Health Department and district officials. Currently three of the 36 district schools have a 10 percent student illness rate.

Caracciolo said that’s normal for this time of year, and she stressed not all those illnesses are physician-confirmed cases of the flu.

“Our facilities department is taking proactive measures for cleaning, and the superintendent has authorized overtime for custodians if needed to ensure a clean learning environment,” Caracciolo said. “Most importantly, we

Prevention say the flu is one of the nation’s most common illnesses. The CDC estimates 5 to 20 percent of Americans get the flu, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized each year from flu-related health complications.

Officials anticipated this season would be tough because more than 90 percent of the influenza specimens tested nationwide are influenza A, and the rates of hospitalization and deaths are typically higher in seasons when that strain is dominant.

As of Jan. 27, more than 1,000 people statewide have been hospitalized since October due to influenza.

From Jan. 21 to 27, the largest group of patients – nearly 3,000 – seen with influenza-like symptoms in the state was in the 5 to 24-year-old age bracket.

At the end of the flu season last year, nine people had died in Georgia and almost 1,500 people were hospitalized.

are asking parents to please not send their children to school when they are ill, even if there is no fever present, and to continue the practice of washing hands frequently.”

Fulton School officials are keeping a close eye on the impact of the flu on the district’s 96,000 students and 14,000 staff members. They also have protocols that kick in when the absentee rates hit 10 percent.

Last week four of Fulton County’s 105 schools had absentee rates above 10 percent, including two in North Fulton. That number triggered the Communicable Illness protocol, prompting the Office of Student Health to launch an investigation. However, not all the cases could be confirmed as flu-related.

“Nonetheless, additional measures have been taken at these schools to include resending flu-specific information and carrying out thorough cleaning of classrooms,” said district spokesperson Susan Hale.

The district will continue to monitor the absentee rate, Hale said, and if it appears flu is the culprit in above-normal absences, the system will coordinate with the Georgia Department of Public Heath for next steps.

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As of Jan. 27, more than 1,000 people statewide have been hospitalized since October due to influenza.

Local hospitals keep eye on medication supplies The severity of this flu season has stretched resources in many states thin, and the CDC has reported some spot shortages of anti-viral medications used to treat the flu.

WellStar North Fulton Hospital, however, has maintained “an adequate supply” of masks, medications, hand sanitizer and other supplies thanks to the collaborative efforts of the WellStar system, said Karim Godamunne, M.D., chief medical officer of WellStar North Fulton Hospital.

“Across the nation, hospitals are extremely busy,” Godamunne said. “But North Fulton has been able to handle the surge from flu thanks to the teamwork and leadership of the staff.”

The hospital has seen a significant increase in flu visits this season, both in the emergency department and hospital admissions, compared to prior years, Godamunne added.

It is not too late to get a flu shot, and health officials recommend people who haven’t received it to do so soon.

“While it may be less effective than other years, the flu vaccine can still provide protection or make symptoms less severe,” Godamunne said. “We do still recommend the vaccine.”

Northside Hospital also has seen a significant increase in flu cases it has treated this season, but it has not faced room or medication shortages.

Northside Forsyth treated 135 flu cases in December, more than double the 54 cases it recorded in December 2016. In January, the hospital admitted 122 flu patients.

Chris Munn, director of emergency services at Northside Hospital, said if a person does contract the flu, they need to go an emergency room for care if they have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure

or sudden dizziness or confusion.

In children, shortness of breath, consistent vomiting, weakness or lethargy are serious warning signs.

Emory Johns Creek Hospital is reporting record volumes of flu patients in their Emergency Department with many requiring hospitalization. The hospital says there has been no shortage of shots or medication.

“The flu shot is around 30 percent effective for the particular strain clinicians are seeing this season,” said Dr. Adedapo Odetoyinbo, chief medical officer of Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

“The flu shot will protect you from that strain and decrease a severity of symptoms. It’s not too late to get a flu shot.”

Companies stress safety measures The business community has also taken heed of the threat.

LexisNexis, one of Alpharetta’s largest employers with just over 1600 full-time employees, has instituted added precautions to ensure a healthy workforce.

“We’re committed to the health and well-being of our employees, so we always have preventative measures in place such as free annual flu shots, hand sanitizer stations throughout the building and encouraging people to stay home when they are ill,” said Jeff Sauer, vice president of Human Resources, LexisNexis Risk Solutions.

“Given the impact of the flu this year, we are also circulating material that provides key facts about the current epidemic and outlines measures that employees can take to prevent it from spreading.”

Staff writers Joe Parker, Pat Fox, Julia Grochowski, Adam Darby and Candy Waylock contributed to this report.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 5

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6 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | NorthFulton.com/BlackBox

BLACK BOX SPECIAL REPORT: HOMELESS IN THE ‘BURBS PART II

‘You shouldn’t be fighting that

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — On a near-freezing night in late-January, a small group of volunteers and one Roswell Police Officer found a group of three men outside the Shell gas station off Holcomb Bridge Road.

The men, surrounded by a few bags filled with all of their worldly belongings, were but a portion of the 39 people located that night during the annual Point in Time Homeless Count.

“I’m just trying to not die,” said Guillermo Ammon, 36. “I go to jail just to live a few more months. It’s really sad how many homeless people are out there. It’s out of control.”

Just three years ago, Ammon said he had a steady, well-paying job. But he began struggling with drugs and alcohol and ultimately faced felony charges and was put on probation.

When he landed in Roswell, life didn’t get any easier.

After stealing a tent from Walmart because he “had no other option,” he fell and hit his head twice during a recent cold spell. After he was released from the hospital, he was so frustrated with being homeless he went to a Waffle House and begged them to call the cops on him. He tried a number of ways to get arrested, including drinking in front of the police and asking if he had a warrant out for him, but the cops didn’t budge.

Eventually, the officers had to take him to a psychiatric hospital after he threatened suicide. He stayed there for six days before he was out on the street again.

“You shouldn’t be fighting that hard for basic needs,” he said. “They gave me about 30 numbers to call for homeless shelters. I called almost all and couldn’t get in anywhere. I had already talked to half of them.”

Back on the streets, Ammon tries often to get employment. He walks to Home Depot to see if he can get a job working day labor.

This is often successful until his bad luck comes into play. Recently, he was in the parking lot walking to the store when he was struck by a pickup truck.

The driver paid him $350 and Ammon took it to a Super 8 hotel where he stayed for four nights. When his money ran out, he was homeless again and ended up at the Shell gas station, planning to stay in a nearby shed for

NORTH FULTON COMMUNITY CHARITIES/SPECIAL

Volunteers receive training in preparation of the annual homeless census count. The maps on the wall provide suggested areas that may harbor homeless individuals. the foreseeable future.

This story is not uncommon for Metro Atlanta’s homeless.

Where to go on a cold night During the annual count, Roswell Police Officer Samuel Wolfson said police will often find the majority of the people sleeping in their cars. Many have jobs, but can’t afford to live in the area.

While the police can’t force anyone to go anywhere, local businesses sometimes allow the homeless to come inside and warm up, especially when nighttime temperatures drop below freezing.

“On a colder night, there are fewer (homeless people) out,” Wolfson said.

“They get to their spots and burrow in early like 5 p.m. before the sun sets because it’s safe and warmer. They go through the dumpster to find warm things like cardboard. Public restrooms are also used because they’re mostly heated and unlocked at night. But some of those are starting to get locked overnight due to getting vandalized.”

While Wolfson keeps up with the local homeless population, he did not know the three men his group found.

By the numbers • For 2017, 494 households, made up of 757 people and 198 kids, visited North Fulton Community Charities for some form of assistance.

• Of that number, 12 percent of the total number of households NFCC interacted with were homeless.

• In 2016, the homeless represented about 10 percent of the households who came to NFCC for help.

• In 2015, that number was 7 percent.

Other participating law enforcement faced similar situations that night, with one officer only recognizing one of the 10 homeless people his group found.

Most of the 39 homeless people counted that night were males between 21 and 60-years-old, according to North Fulton Community Charities Executive Director Barbara Duffy.

The count is mandated nationally through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of their homeless services program.

“Unsheltered homeless people are

an important subpopulation of homeless persons and their characteristics and needs must be accommodated within any strategy to reduce homelessness,” the department said in a guide for counting unsheltered people. “Collecting good baseline data about this subpopulation is essential to understanding the causes of homelessness and to designing effective responses, and can be used as a basis for comparison in future years.”

By completing the count, groups like NFCC receive funding, which the organization uses to hire a fulltime social worker dedicated to the homeless.

To coordinate funding, the Fulton County Homeless Continuum of Care was created. Because the county is so vast, the counts and care are split between north and south with NFCC as the base site for the northern portion of the county. The City of Atlanta has its own program.

This year, the 26 volunteers gathered at NFCC ventured out into the dark and cold side streets, alleyways and behind buildings in Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs.

The volunteers included five police officers from Alpharetta and Roswell, along with a few formerly homeless

hard for basic needs’

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

A camp for the homeless is discovered in the wooded area behind a local car dealership next to Ga. 400. A cardboard box made into a sleeping pad was found under a set of stairs behind a business.

It’s really easy to live in North Fulton and not have any concept of the scope of the homelessness in our own community.”

BARBARA DUFFY North Fulton Community Charities Executive Director individuals who provided some idea of where the homeless typically are located, so they led most groups.

An undercounted population This year’s count of 39 found was “disappointing,” Duffy said, but she added that could be due to the cold weather, because some might have been in bars or gas stations warming up.

“We know it’s an undercount because we are seeing a significant number in regular business,” Duffy said. “We did 45 hotel stays in January.

Part of that is it was cold and we were more likely to get folks housed if we knew they didn’t have a place. It is a high number for us to spring for a hotel because it’s not a good solution. It only

buys a few days and it doesn’t solve anything other than getting them out of the cold.”

For 2017, 494 households, made up of 757 people and 198 kids, visited North Fulton Community Charities for some form of assistance.

Of that, 12 percent of the total number of households NFCC interacted with were homeless.

In 2016, the homeless represented about 10 percent of the households who came to NFCC for help. In 2015, that number was 7 percent, so it’s climbing, Duffy said.

“We aren’t unique with the big undercount,” Duffy said. “Everybody probably feels the same. If we were to count when the weather was nice, we might see more people out and about.

But would the passion that goes with worrying about this population be there if it’s 70 degrees? This is when it’s most important that folks are served, when it’s cold.”

The federal government is moving away from funding shelters, she said, because they believe it’s better to put someone into long-term housing immediately.

She thinks that is risky because many of these people often aren’t financially able to maintain that situation.

“Many folks who’ve become homeless have so many issues, so there needs to be this in-between step where they get temporary housing and the services they get with it, then move slowly toward independence,” she said.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Volunteers walk behind abandoned shopping malls to look for homeless dwellings.

How to address the issue The North Fulton Poverty Task Force, a group created primarily to lessen homelessness, is working on a variety of ways to combat the problem.

It suggests an immediate housing center that would include a comprehensive assessment and referrals to local housing. If there weren’t any current referrals, the homeless could sleep in the center that night until a placement can be arranged.

The shelter center is currently in the works, she said, while they’re deciding who should take that on — a business or group already working with the homeless, or something new entirely.

For the center to be successful at

all, she said the community needs to be willing to accept it, an issue often encountered in North Fulton.

First, they need to be knowledgeable about the need, she said.

“It’s really easy to live in North Fulton and not have any concept of the scope of the homelessness in our own community,” Duffy said. “We have been using our efforts to share that information with those who will listen and building support. We anticipate there could be some folks who agree with the concept that it’s needed but ‘I don’t want it in my community or close to here.’ Any documentation, like the count, that we can put together will build the support. We need all of our community together.”

OPINION

8 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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One question I get about my Appalachian Trail hike is “why” – why did you do it, walk those 2,200 miles – and the answer I give is that I wanted to stop time.

The older I got, RAY APPEN the faster time Publisher ray@appenmediagroup.com seemed to be passing me by. Birthdays turned into blurs. Seasons kept arriving sooner and sooner. Putting up Christmas decorations and taking them down seemed to be blending into one event.

And I felt like a bystander on the side of the road watching the traffic speed by one car after another while I stood motionless – and helpless – and just watched.

That depressed me. I felt like I had a leak or a hole in myself that was emptying the life out of me.

It wasn’t always like this. When I was a kid it seemed like summer vacation lasted for years. Weekends stretched on and on. Christmas vacation seemed to be months long. The first 10 years of life seemed to last an eternity.

I read something that said the reason time seems slower when we’re young is that so much of life is a new experience and that humans seem to perceive the passing of time using new experiences as bookends – as beginning and ending points. The more new experiences one has, the more sets of bookends. When our lives are routine and every day seems the same, it all blends together and becomes one big

Every single day was new. Almost every single moment was new. “Engagement” became a hardwired condition – at least out on the trail – that I am certain, changed parts of me permanently. passing blur; time feels like it is flying by at a high speed because we’re not stopping to focus and engage with new experiences.

New experiences naturally create engagement, and the more engaged we are, the longer time seems to last. If you’re engaged, you notice more and you experience more. It takes “time” to walk through a museum and absorb the art. It takes time to have conversations with others if you really listen and participate in the exchange. It takes time – to participate in book clubs, to notice blooming flowers or to attend a symphony. That is, one slows down because it takes time to pay attention and be engaged – whether it is listening to the cicadas at night, walking down a deserted beach looking for shark’s

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 9

OPINION

10 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Time: Continued from Page 8

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teeth, or looking for meteors in the night sky.

Creating new experiences increases our engagement, which in turn breaks up the progression of time – at least in our awareness.

Remember those scenes in movies when the film turns to slow motion as the characters are experiencing some traumatic event or an emergency situation like a car wreck or being shot or, as in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, when they are jumping off that cliff? Well, those are times of intense engagement – every detail is being seen and experienced with acute focus, and time literally stops sometimes or slows to a crawl.

I remember falling asleep while I was driving down I-95 returning from college. I woke up on the side of the interstate going about 80. The second my front tires touched the pavement as I tried to get back on the road, my car started doing 360s across the two lanes. My instant reaction was to turn the steering wheel against the spin.

Then, time literally stopped as I remembered that in a spin you are supposed to turn with the spin – not against it – and the next thing I knew I was completely on the other side of the interstate in the grass. But for the blink of

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an eye, in the middle of the road traveling around 80, sideways, my car froze and time stopped briefly while I recalled a lesson that I probably learned in a drivers-ed class a thousand years ago.

So hiking the Trail offered me the opportunity to experience new things constantly – from walking down a new trail into the forest in all kinds of weather every day, to having to search for water and a place to camp continuously, to focusing intensely on where my feet were stepping each and every step – to avoid falling or stepping on varmints - (approximately five million steps ), to meeting new hikers and, at least once a week, either hitchhiking or walking into some strange town to resupply, shower, and eat.

Every single day was new. Almost every single moment was new. “Engagement” became a hardwired condition – at least out on the trail – that I am certain, changed parts of me permanently.

One stayed engaged. One’s senses stayed on high alert continuously. And, the first 500 miles of my hike, which probably took almost two months, seemed like they took a lifetime to complete. I very quickly was able to affirm to myself that my goal of slowing down the passage of time had been a resounding success. And now, posttrail, all I have to do is remember those lessons and apply them in a bit more of a more challenging environment. I can do this.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 11

16O

NEWS

12 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

County approves revisions to animal control ordinance

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Commission voted to adopt an updated animal control ordinance in an effort to curb animal abuse.

The board voted unanimously Feb. 1 to approve a resolution that would modify the ordinance.

The additions include banning tethering when a dog is not in the presence of an adult, barring people convicted of animal cruelty from owning an animal and requiring animal handlers to obtain permits and undergo a background check.

Another provision allows businesses associated with animals 90 days to meet any new requirements, such as conducting background checks on employees, including minors with a parent’s consent and seasonal and part-time workers.

Volunteers would not be required to undergo background checks.

More changes include setting specific time frames for tethering an animal and what type of tether is allowed.

The ordinance provides exemptions for veterinarians, employees of the county animal shelter, professional dog handlers and trainers who may temporarily restrain an animal using a basic tether around the neck.

Such tethering would only be allowed during business hours while grooming an animal to ensure supervision. The harness also must not exceed 10 percent of an animal’s body weight.

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said one of the biggest issues members of the public raised about the revisions was the background check requirement because it would “punish the people who are doing the right thing and allow a loophole for those in the wrong.”

“They’re not terribly supportive of the permitting system,” Jarrard said.

“Because I suspect it’ll be a big hassle on their industry.”

County Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said the group she met with was taken aback by the notion that veterinarians, although covered by their license, don’t have to adhere to these standards.

“A lot in the room worked for veterinarians before they started their own businesses,” Mills said. “They wanted to know why we weren’t allowing vets to fall under the same category.”

The ordinance changes come in the wake of the October 2017 arrest of Michelle Louise Root, 41, of Gainesville, who owns Paw’sh Paws pet salon off Lake Center Parkway.

Root was initially arrested for cruelty to animals after she allegedly caused the death of a Portuguese water dog wheaten terrier mix, Meko, 3, she had been grooming at her store.

A second felony aggravated cruelty to animals charge was later filed against her after police learned of another incident in which a dog had to be euthanized in March 2016 after being in Root’s care.

To view the entire ordinance, visit http://bit.ly/2Eibb3e.

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14 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

COMMUNITY

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Forsyth County Superintendent Jeff Bearden congratulates High School Teacher of the Year Jonas Strecker from South Forsyth High School.

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Forsyth Schools names Teacher of the Year finalists Winner to be announced March 9 at Celebration of Excellence

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After sorting through hundreds of applications, Forsyth County Schools has named its top three teachers of the year, one from an elementary, middle and high school.

The winner will be announced March 9 at the Celebration of Excellence event put on by the district for all the teacher of the year finalists.

The finalists this year are Becky Morris who teaches at Shiloh Point Elementary School, Julie Stephens at Lakeside Middle School and Jonas Strecker at South Forsyth High School.

Morris has taught at Shiloh Point for six years in fourth grade for one year and third grade for five years. She started at the school as a new teacher after graduating college. Her mom, who was a teacher for 30 years, also worked at Shiloh Point.

“It is big shoes to fill,” Morris said.

“She’s had the biggest impact on my life telling me to love kids and teach for the

right reasons. It’s not just for a job, but to give them a place where they know they’re loved. I don’t want them to feel like they’re on their own.”

Growing up, people told Morris she’d be a teacher just like her mom.

At first, she didn’t think it was the right career for her.

“I realized there’s a purpose in everyone’s life and a reason you were created,” Morris said. “You have to find that. Once I realized (being a teacher was mine), I was so excited. What else would I do with my life that meant something?”

Stephens switched careers from marketing and began her teaching career at Mashburn Elementary School in 2011 teaching third grade. She then came to Lakeside Middle School as an interrelated special education teacher in 2016.

“It’s like I was alive in the classroom and working with the kids,” Stephens said. “I really enjoyed it. We are completely blessed in Forsyth County with amazing educators. I love my kids a lot and focus on building a relationship with them. They know how much I love and care for them so they’re willing to work really hard for me.”

Strecker has been teaching for 20

See TEACHER, Page 15

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 15

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Shiloh Point Elementary School Principal Derrick Hershey and Forsyth County Superintendent Jeff Bearden tell Elementary School Teacher of the Year Becky Morris’ class why she is a finalist.

Teacher: Continued from Page 14 years and came to South Forsyth High four years ago teaching German. Prior to that, he taught at the undergraduate level.

“I love teaching German and I would love to teach any language,” he said.

“It’s real. It’s not something you learn from a textbook, then spit it out on a test and forget it. It’s something you

take with you the rest of your life. It gives the kids insight to a new culture which they can adopt into their own if they choose to do so.”

As a native of Germany, he enjoys seeing the students evolve from German 1 to AP German classes.

“I have awesome students and I’m trying to push them to become even more awesome,” Strecker said. “I’m about them learning the language rather than getting an ‘A’ in class. I care about whether they learn or not.”

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work and live, Superintendent Jeff Bearden said, and that’s reflected in the teachers.

“If you talk to the community of our teachers who’ve worked elsewhere, they will tell you all those things are true,” Bearden said. “It’s one of the things that make it so special to work here.

Our teachers are the reason why we’ve had the success we’ve had and will continue to have. To make it to this level has got to be unbelievably humbling because they know the quality of their peers.”

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Bearden said the district excels at any metric it’s tested on, which he said doesn’t happen by accident.

“It happens because we have such a strong professional staff,” he said.

“The past few years there was a teacher shortage nationwide. But we’re fortunate in Forsyth County because our pool of candidates is really strong every year. It’s because of our reputation.

The fact we can bring in quality teachers every year due to our growth, is a testimony to the teachers who are here now.”

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It’s amazing to see a staunch 95 percent Republican voting community supporting an antibusiness, anti-growth agenda.

FRANK NORTON, North Georgia real estate expert 16 | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018

Norton: Forsyth County needs to watch ‘anti-growth’ vision

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Frank Norton, noted real estate expert in north Georgia, warned Forsyth County against following an “anti-growth” path as it continues to draw residents.

In his annual NORTON “Norton Native Intelligence Forecast” presented in Gainesville recently, Norton said anti-growth sentiment has been spreading, and that could cripple the area economy.

Each year, Norton takes the economic vital signs of the region and lists what he thinks the cities and counties are doing well and where they can improve.

This year’s report listed some of the key economic events of the past year.

In 2017, the state recorded the largest spike in population in its history, now home to 10.42 million people, making it the eighth most populous state in the nation.

That surge has spurred Georgia families to move from in-town neighborhoods to the suburbs in search of better schools and more family-friendly recreation.

However with all the new arrivals, Norton said the anti-growth sentiment is spreading across municipalities, with some counties forcing changes in governing commissions and government visions.

“We have a world gone crazy,” Norton said. “When the market was bad, county officials and staff were begging,

Population growth by county

Average price home sold 2017

County

1928

2018

% Growth

County

Resale Price

New Home Price

Banks

9,703

19,272

98%

Banks

238k

209k

Barrow

12,401

79,264

539%

Barrow

187k

245k

Cherokee

20,003

249,535

1,147%

Cherokee

289k

322k

Clarke

25,613

125,118

388%

Dawson

293k

234k

Dawson

3,502

24,624

703%

Forsyth

365k

408k

Gilmer

224k

342k

Gwinnett

273k

330k

Fannin

12,969

25,028

93%

Forsyth

10,624

225,443

2,022%

Franklin

15,902

22,943

44%

Habersham

207k

262k

Gilmer

7,344

30,754

318%

Hall

272k

283k

Gwinnett

27,853

950,633

3,313%

Jackson

227k

226k

Hall

30,313

202,442

568%

Hart

15,174

26,177

73%

Jackson

21,609

66,167

206%

Lumpkin

4,927

32,916

568%

Madison

14,921

29,426

97%

Oconee

8,082

37,832

368%

Ogelthorpe

12,927

15,357

19%

Pickens

9,687

31,686

227%

Rabun

6,331

16,807

165%

Stephens

11,740

25,930

121%

Towns

4,346

11,619

167%

Union

6,340

23,293

267%

Walton

21,118

92,709

339%

White

6,056

29,688

390%

‘What can we do for you? What do you need? We will do everything we can to make it work.’’’

But now, he said, the tone has flipped.

“Forsyth County continues to re-

SOURCE: FMLS

verse its stellar pro-business, pro-executive housing course with an emerging anti-growth county vision with roadblocks on development, permitting and code approval,” Norton said. “It’s amazing to see a staunch 95 percent Republican voting community supporting an antibusiness, anti-growth agenda.”

The county was once heralded as the shining star of progressive economic activity it’s dangerously close to erasing, Norton said.

“The ‘we can do anything, we are unstoppable boosterism’ [has been replaced] with a ‘go home leave us alone’ rally cry,” Norton said. “The losers are the citizens of Forsyth. The winners are the citizens of Dawson, Pickens, Hall and Gwinnett standing in line, waiting to pick up the pieces.”

One of Forsyth’s biggest assets is Lake Lanier, and lake house pricing is nearing what it cost in 2006 with inventory 30 to 40 percent down depending on price segment, he said.

When the market was bad, county officials and staff were begging, ‘What can we do for you? What do you need? We will do everything we can to make it work.’’’

FRANK NORTON North Georgia real estate expert “Home sellers are enjoying a steady market with prices edging up about 5 percent in 2017,” Norton said. “Those sellers with deep water are clearly winners with low water properties patiently holding off the market until a full pool returns.”

Buyer activity is high, but with low inventory, it can be frustrating for a buyer to find a home that fits their needs, he said. Homes listed under $500,000 are in high demand with less than 60 days on the market. These homes are receiving multiple offers, and some are on the market for just days, he added.

“Lake lots are selling again, prices ranging from the $200s in multi-slip communities up to luxury lots from the $400s up,” Norton said. “A recent lot sale in Forsyth County sold for $800,000 in 2017. Custom homes are once again popping up on the lake, as lots and tear downs are seeing new builds.”

To view the full forecast, visit bit. ly/2FwzEPg.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 17

Rates jump; and a brief history of the mortgage It’s risky to put Industry experts began each of the past four years predicting a steep rise in mortgage interest rates. And each year they were proven wrong.

This year, the rates are doing the GEOFF SMITH talking.

Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com When rates dropped below 5 percent in 2008, it was the first time they’d been that low since the 1940s and 1950s. During World War II, very few people were buying houses, and rates dropped into the 4 percent range. But once our soldiers returned home and our country began to try to normalize, rates went up back over 5 percent.

Mortgages started to come more into fashion in the early 1900s, but they looked a lot different than they do today. Back then, banks took all of the risk. As such, the terms were less favorable. Most loans required a 50 percent down payment and called the loans due after five years. It wasn’t until the Great Depression and the creation of the Federal Housing Administration that mortgages became more affordable for the average homebuyer.

You have heard of FHA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the VA, and maybe even USDA. But you may not know exactly what they do. These organizations essentially take risk off of the banks by establishing guidelines and telling banks that if they underwrite the loans according to those guidelines, they will compensate them in one way or another should the borrower default on the loan.

Essentially, the only risk to the bank is that they underwrite the loan properly. Of course that risk is not to be overlooked.

Our system for ensuring those

This year, the tax reform bill passed.

Inflation finally started rising, and every economic indicator is hinting at a strong economy. loans were being underwritten properly pretty much fell apart in the years leading up to the collapse of our economy in 2008. As described so well in Michael Lewis’s book “The Big Short,” the appetite for mortgages on Wall Street became so strong, that the ratings agencies were pressured to turn a blind eye to the weak lending practices that ultimately spread rampant throughout the mortgage industry.

Lenders were making FHA, Fannie Mae, etc. loans that really weren’t those kinds of loans. Plus they were making loans that weren’t backed by an agency like the FHA. They were ‘portfolio’ loans where the bank assumed all the risk and underwrote according to their own guidelines. And the appetite for loans was so strong that companies were buying and selling those kinds of loans, too. It was completely wild-west and ultimately collapsed our economy.

After the downturn, the Federal Reserve dialed back it’s short-term interest rate to 0 percent and started buying bonds at about $90 billion a month – two moves which dropped rates to their lowest levels in recorded history in November of 2012. Average rates for a 30-year Fannie Mae loan were at about 3.3 percent.

Rates were supposed to rise above 5 percent by the end of 2014. But instability kept popping up around the

globe, including a skirmish between Israel and Palestine, the rise of ISIS and the Russian invasion of Crimea.

These factors kept the economy cautious and interest rates low.

In 2015, the same optimism ensued – right up until oil prices dropped and China’s growth rate lowered for the first time in a very long time. In 2016, we worried about China, then Europe found it hard to find traction.

In 2017, we got the surprise of Donald Trump winning the presidency. Only this actually pushed rates up, as investors raced to put money into companies they thought would do well.

That lasted right up until the healthcare bill failed and folks pulled off the gas, waiting to see if the new president could actually do what he said he would do.

This year, the tax reform bill passed. Inflation finally started rising, and every economic indicator is hinting at a strong economy. Since January 1, we’ve seen our steepest increase in rates in about two years.

The average 30-year rate started the year at 4.03 percent and sits today at 4.35 percent.

With the Fed calling for several more increases to its short-term rate this year, one would expect mortgage rates to keep going up and over 5 percent. Or at least until the next surprise pops up.

Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial focusing on residential home loans for refinances and home purchases.

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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Do you have a big opportunity you are working on? Is this occupying most of your time? Are you having trouble getting other things done because you are so focused on this one opporDICK JONES tunity? While big Founder & President Jones Simply Sales opportunities represent big rewards, putting all your eggs in one basket is not a good idea.

In literal terms, this idiomatic phrase means that one should not focus all of their resources on just one thing.

Similar to carrying a bunch of eggs in one basket, dropping it, and breaking all the eggs; having your focus on just one thing may end badly if you don’t have other areas of focus.

Good investors know this all too well as they aspire to have a diversified set of stocks, bonds and cash in their portfolio.

While you can get rich real quick by picking the right stocks, you can also lose everything you have. The same holds true with small businesses as they aspire to grow. Sustained growth requires a balanced approach and not taking risks by putting everything you have into just one thing.

It doesn’t matter if it’s the best idea in the world. If it is not successful and that’s all you have, then it’s tough to recover. Putting growth initiatives in “different baskets,” so that they are not dependent on one another, will allow you to minimize your risks. If you are a small business owner and trying to grow your business, don’t put all your eggs in one basket!

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18 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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FOR KIDS: “DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, THE LONG HAUL”

POUND CAKE COOK-OFF

Roswell will host its third fourth Pound Cake Cook-Off. Guests are invited to taste pound cake and vote for their favorite entries. First and second place will be awarded in each category. A People’s Choice Award will also be given to the participant with the most votes from guests. The cook-off will be held Saturday, Feb. 10, 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. For more information and registration, visit roswellgov.com.

Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton.com/Calendar.

EVENTS:

PINSTRIPES & POLKA DOTS ROSWELL MARDI GRAS BALL

What: Enjoy a dinner buffet with New Orleans flair and a Roaring ‘20s theme.

There will be live music and a charity auction.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 7-11 p.m.

Where: The Country Club of Roswell, 2500 Club Springs Drive, Roswell Cost: Tickets are $150 More info and tickets: facebook.com/ roswellmardigrasball

CHOPIN SOCIETY OF ATLANTA: SERGEI BABAYAN PIANO RECITAL

What: Winner of the first prize in numerous competitions, Sergei Babayan has been “hailed for his emotional intensity, bold energy and remarkable levels of color.”

When: Sunday, Feb. 11, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets start at $10 More info and tickets: chopinatlanta. org

BETTER TOGETHER

What: Learn about gold standard companion health care for your pets, what to expect during a wellness exam and how to find reliable internet resources.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT IN ALPHARETTA

What: Learn about the latest public projects and developments. The Director of Community Development will be available to present information and answer questions.

When: Wednesday, Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

“REMEMBER THE TITANS”

What: See the true story of a newly appointed African-American coach and his high school team on their first season as a racially integrated unit. For teenagers and adults.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 4 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

COOKING CLASS: PARTYING IN THE FRENCH QUARTER

What: Learn how to make jambalaya, bbq shrimp, stuffed artichoke and Brennan’s Bananas Foster. Complimentary wine is served with dinner, and a free mini-tour of Barrington Hall is included.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell Cost: $50 per person More info and registration: roswellgov. com

BIG APPLE CIRCUS

What: See high wire performances, flying trapeze acts, daredevil roller skating, live comedy shows and more.

No wild or exotic animals are used.

When: Through Feb. 25, times vary Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 1775 Founders Parkway, Alpharetta Cost: Tickets start at $25 More info: bigapplecircus.com

What:See as Greg schemes to use his family trip to Meemaw’s 90th birthday party as an opportunity to sneak into a video game convention. For ages 5 and up.

When: Friday, Feb. 9, 4 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

NORTH FULTON HIGH SCHOOL EXHIBITION

What: See the artworks of some of the best local high school art students.

When: Jan. 19-Feb. 2, all day Where: Roswell Visual Arts Center, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: THE FACE OF ART, KIP ROGERS EXHIBITION RECEPTION What: Kip Rogers has been teaching a variety of local painting and drawing classes to both children and adults for over 25 years.

When: Friday, Feb. 9, 7-9 p.m.; gallery on display through March 2 Where: Roswell Visual Ats Center, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

“EVOLUTION: A DANCER’S JOURNEY” What: Join the Roswell Dance Starz for their Winter Concert “Evolution: A Dancer’s Journey,” showcasing their dancers from ages 7-18.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 1 and 6 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets are $12 More info and tickets: roswellgov.com

JANE L. POWELL, “THE GODDESS OF SOUL”

What: Jane Powell is a versatile singer who performs a blend of classic R&B songs, blues tunes, jazz standards and gospel anthems.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 8-10 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets are $30; season passes for the Live! in Roswell series are $75 More info or tickets: roswellgov.com

“SOUTHERN SIRENS”

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: TAMARA BOGGS What: Tamara Y. Boggs is a freelance visual artist residing in metro Atlanta whose mediums are acrylic and oil paint, graphite and charcoal.

When: Through Feb. 12, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: “WORD AND IMAGES”

What: The exhibit will convey the different stages in a woman’s life through the theme “Lies, Truth and Heart.”

When: Feb. 13-March 30, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

LIBRARY EVENTS: VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

What: Volunteer orientations last one hour and include a tour, shelving instructions and everything you’ve ever wanted to know about volunteering in a library.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 10-11 a.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

What: This comedy features a group of middle-aged ladies as they go on their annual beach getaway, only to find that a local homewrecker is attempting to pursue one of their husbands.

When: Through Feb. 25, times vary Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: Tickets start at $22.50 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

BOOKS WITH PUPS – HUMANE HEARTS

PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGAMABOBS

What: Babatunde the Griot and his drummer Uncle Spirit will take children on a magical journey with creatively woven tales.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, noon-1 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

What: This is the 6th Annual Juried Show by the Roswell Fine Arts Alliance.

When: Jan. 27 through April 2, times vary Where: Arts Center East Gallery, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: rfaa.org

What: Read to therapy dog Shadow with a Humane Hearts volunteer. Great for reluctant readers. Ages 5 and up.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

STORYTIME WITH BABATUNDE

CALENDAR

ADULT ART CLASS

What: Create a canvas project while enjoying coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. All levels welcome. Reservation required.

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 2:30-4 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info and registration: afpls.org or 404-613-4050

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA:

When you get lemons…

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS WORKSHOP

What: This two-hour crash course will teach everything about navigating the college admissions process. For teenagers and parents.

When: Sunday, Feb. 11, 2:30-4 p.m.

Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: afpls.org or 770-360-8820

LEGO PLAY

What: Lego fans are invited to the library to build, create and have fun.

The library provides the LEGOs; you provide the know-how. Ages 4-12 When: Monday, Feb. 12, 3:30-5 p.m.

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

THE BEST NEST

What: Join the Atlanta Audubon Society to learn all about nesting birds.

Ages 5-11.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 4-5 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: afpls.org

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: ATLANTA JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

What: See diverse films from more than 24 covering everything from human rights, women in film religion and more.

When: Through Feb. 15, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

Where: Various locations around Atlanta Cost: Tickets start at $12 More info: ajff.org

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth 19 NorthFulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 8, 2018 | 21

STEVE HUDSON Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net

“Rain, rain, go away…”

I found myself saying that last weekend as I sat on the sofa in the den and watched the deluge coming down outside the window. I’d kind of planned to do a little fishing, but the clouds apparently

had other ideas.

But you know what they say about making lemonade from lemons. Not being able to go fishing meant that I suddenly had several hours with absolutely nothing scheduled to do, so I decided to tie some flies instead.

“Fly tying” is the craft of making your own flies for fly fishing. It’s something I’ve enjoyed for many years, and there’s always something neat about fooling a trout on a fly that you’ve tied yourself.

What should I tie? Well, being as it’s the middle of winter, I decided to tie some “midges.”

Midges could be considered the official trout flies of wintertime. When the weather gets cold in January and February, mix of bugs on most trout streams shifts toward small. The fish often go for very small flies (and by “very small” I mean flies less than a quarter of an inch long). That’s small!

So midges were what I’d tied.

I’d seen just how effective midges can be the previous weekend, when I had a chance to fish the Delayed Harvest portion of Amicalola Creek with my good friend Scott Hodge. Briefly, “Delayed Harvest” is a special fisheries program that manages select sections of certain streams for catch and release fishing during the cold months of the year.

On Amicalola Creek, the Delayed Harvest water extends from Steele Bridge downriver to the bridge at Highway 53. It’s beautiful water, and we were excited about fishing it.

Amicalola Creek is accessible via parking areas at either end of the DH stretch, and as we pulled in and parked the car, we agreed that the day looked like a good one. Conditions were good. We wasted no time and quickly began gearing up.

That’s when I realized that I didn’t have the right wading boots.

Uh oh. Without wading boots, my fishing on Amicalola Creek was going to be nil.

Scott, being a good guy, said, “No

STEVE HUDSON/HERALD

The third cast was the charm for Scott Hodge while fishing at Amicalola Creek. problem! Let’s just do some hiking instead!” There is good hiking in the area, and I’ll take a look at some of it in a future column.

But Yours Truly, also a good guy, said, “No chance. We came to fish. You fish, and I’ll stay on the bank and take pictures!” And after a little more discussion, that’s what we decided to do.

At first, Scott tried a streamer fly (that is, a fly designed to imitate a minnow). Big and meaty, streamers often work very well in Amicalola Creek.

But the trout were having nothing of that, and after an hour or so Scott still hadn’t had a single hit.

That’s when I suggested trying one of those microscopic midges.

“Why don’t you try a Blue Assassin?” I suggested, referring to one popular midge pattern. So he switched to the microscopic fly.

First cast…nothing. Second cast…a strike but a miss.

Three was the charm. Scott’s third cast was rewarded with a strike from an impressive rainbow.

He netted the fish, admired it, and then slipped it back in the water as I cheered him on from the bank.

And that’s how it went for the rest of what turned out to be, by any measure, a banner day. Scott landed many fish over the next two or three hours, all on that tiny midge. As for me, I sat on the bank and took pictures. It really was okay, and I didn’t mind a

bit. In fact, I cheered out loud every time my buddy brought another trout to the net.

I don’t think I’ve had that much fun in a long time.

Sitting here now and tying flies while it rains, I thought back to that day of fishing (and non-fishing!) and realized that it offers a few helpful lessons.

Lesson one is to give the fish the fly they want and to remember that, in wintertime, that’s often something very small. If you’re a fly fisher, try some of those tiny midges on your next trip.

Sure, they’re tiny and hard to see, at least for the fisherman. But trout apparently spot ‘em with no problem, and you may be surprised at how well they work.

Lesson Two is to check to be sure you have the right wading gear before you get to the stream.

And Lesson Three, which may be the most significant of them all, is to remember that it’s just as much fun to watch your buddy catch fish as it is to catch fish yourself. That’s the way fishing is, and I’m okay with that.

Interested in learning more about fly fishing? Check out Steve Hudson’s book Flyfishing 101. It’s available from local outfitters and on Amazon, and signed copies are available direct from the author at chattahoocheemedia.com.

20 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

2017 YEAR END REPORT

27

The Chamber participated in economic development projects.

These projects created

$

$167 million

in new capital investment.

$167 million is 23% greater than 2016’s new capital investment numbers.

J OB S

These projects also created 1,364 new local jobs.

1,364 is 41% greater than the number of jobs created in 2016.

This is the largest capital investment and new job announcements in a single year since the inception of the Chamber’s Economic Development Department in 2005.

These 27 projects will pay an estimated $1,785,336 annually in property taxes of the equivalent of the net property taxes paid by 1,200 home-owners.

$

The Chamber referred 6,227 hotel room night leads to local hotel operators.

Visitors from these leads generated an estimated $1,176,903 in local sales taxes.

Record Year for Economic Development The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce is proud to promote a superior quality of life for the residents of our area. We’d like to share some of last year’s highlights with you here and give Chamber members a glimpse of the results of their investment in the organization.

27 Economic Development Projects These projects are the initiatives that grow the county. The business professionals and community leaders in the area worked together this year to foster future development in the key areas of healthcare, manufacturing and technology. In turn, these projects generated jobs and capital investments in the community. Of the 27 firms, 50 percent are existing firms announcing local expansions. The remaining 50 percent are firms relocating to the community.

The firms will be paying an estimated $1,785,336 annually in property taxes or the equivalent of the net property taxes paid by 1,200 homeowners.

1,300+ Jobs Created Job growth is critical to bolster a thriving economy. New employers in the area include Sports Warehouse, Sharp Business Systems, U.S. Health Works and Cady Studios. Firms like Lone Rover and Georgia Highlands expanded their local operations in 2017, creating additional local jobs. $167 Million Dollars of Capital Investments Added to the Community When a business relocates, begins or expands in Forsyth County, it makes an investment in this community. In 2017, the Chamber assisted 27 businesses in investing $167 million back into the community. Overall, the return on invest-

ment in economic development for the citizens of Forsyth County is an astounding 893 percent!

Serving Small Businesses Last year, the Business Advancement Resource (BAR) hosted six “Lunch & Learn” workshops, seven Business After Hours networking events and 34 Power Networking Lunches. An additional SCORE roundtable of peer business counseling also began in 2017.

6,200+ Hotel Room Nights Generated In 2017, the Chamber’s efforts referred 6,227 room night leads to local hotel operators. Visitors from these leads alone generated an estimated $1,176,903 in local sales taxes. Overall, visitors to Forsyth County generated an estimated $5,405,312 in local taxes. Each resident in Forsyth County would need to be taxed an additional $204 annually to replace the economic activity generated by visitors to the community.

Of all the Chamber’s Annual Reports, we are probably most proud of the content of this one. A huge step forward was taken for commercial growth and development in the community when the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a plan to expand economic development initiatives. That new investment and more aggressive direction are already paying important dividends. We have had the largest capital investment and new job announcements in a single year since the inception of the Economic Development Department in 2005.

2017 was a record year for economic development. We look forward to serving you in 2018!

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 21

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

cummingforsythchamber.org

Scott Evans Named Chamber’s Senior Project Manager Scott Evans, an experienced economic development professional and entrepreneur, has been named Senior Project Manager – Scott Evans, Technology for Cumming-Forsyth the CummingChamber senior Forsyth County project manager Chamber of Commerce. The announcement follows a strong economic development partnership renewed earlier this year between the Chamber and Forsyth County Board of Commissioners.

Evans most recently served as Business Development Manager for CSC General Contractors, an Atlanta based general contractor specializing in commercial and

industrial land development. He has also served as Chief Operating Officer of ScotCro, a management consulting firm focused on process improvement, management coaching, and IT systems design; President of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce; and Manager of Chamber Services for the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

“Bringing on a seasoned leader in technology is one of several pro-active economic development initiatives the business community is collaborating on with the Board of Commissioners,” according to Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Chairman Todd Levent. “Working with existing technology firms in our area will be the number one priority for Scott.

Georgia 400 is a major growth area for companies. Our goal is to provide as many services as possible

to enhance the operations of these businesses while at the same time looking to attract new investments and jobs.”

Under the agreement between Forsyth County and the Chamber, the Board of Commissioners provide policy oversight and resourcing, the Chamber executes the plans, and the Forsyth County Development Authority implements the plans and have an administrative role. Commissioners are regularly updated on projects.

“The Chamber is known for its aggressive approach to infrastructure growth and the ability to provide services to new companies looking at the area,” Evans said. “The opportunity to be a part of a team to develop stronger relationships with existing businesses and lead the way for new opportunities is extremely

exciting to me. My background fits well with this role in technology and project management.”

Evans will work closely with the Chamber’s Vice President of Economic Development, Robert Long.

He is a Certified Economic Developer and the key contact for new manufacturing businesses looking to grow in Forsyth County.

Since 2011, the Chamber has led economic development efforts that have generated 5,000 jobs and $496 million of new capital investments.

The numbers are backed by 91 project announcements during the time period. McCoy stresses the fact that this was accomplished in concert with the Board of Commissioners, City of Cumming, and the Development Authority.

��������������������������������������������������������

Moving FoCo Forward The first section of the new GA 400 southbound lane – between SR 141 and McFarland Parkway – opened to traffic on December 22, 2017.

Construction will continue widening GA 400 from SR 369/Browns Bridge Road to SR 141/Peachtree Parkway to a total of six lanes.

The widening of State Route 400 was made possible through the partnership of Forsyth County and the Georgia Department of Transportation and voter approval of the $200 million bond referendum to fund vital projects like this one. The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber funded the transportation bond campaign and looks forward to the

positive changes it is bringing to the community, for both residents and commercial business.

“Transportation is a key topic for every community, most especially one like Forsyth County that has

experienced the extensive growth that we have,” said District 4 Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills, who serves as chair of the county’s Transportation Committee. “Thanks to our voters who approved the $200 million Transportation Bond in 2014, and our legislators approving HB170, we have orange cones throughout the county illustrating the great progress being made toward improving transportation in Forsyth County. The Transportation Summit is an excellent opportunity for our residents to hear first-hand about the progress being made by those involved in this complex transportation process.”

The South Forsyth Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce and Forsyth County Government will host the Transportation Summit on February 21st at 11:30 a.m. at the Forsyth Conference Center.

Speakers will include Russell McMurry, Commissioner of the GA Department of Transportation, GA House Representative Kevin Tanner, and Forsyth County Commissioner Cindy Mills. Limited seating will be available at no cost for those choosing to not partake in lunch. If you will be partaking in lunch the cost to attend is $15 per person.

To register to attend visit www. cummingforsythchamber.org or call 770-887-6461.

22 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

22 | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018

Sponsored Section

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 23

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24 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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dren’s Dental Health Month. This all began as a one-day event in Cleveland, Ohio on February 3rd, 1941, and the first national observance of Children’s Dental Health Day was held on February 8th, 1949. It has since grown into a month-long celebration. Our message of the importance of oral health goes out to millions of children and adults in communities across the country, and includes such events as health fairs, dental office tours, and visits to the classroom by dentists and hygienists.

Dr. Ushma Patel has volunteered at local schools giving educational programs to several children’s classes on how to take care of their teeth and talking to them about nutrition to keep them healthy.

One of the reasons for this special annual event is that many people are still unaware of the important role early dental care plays in our children’s overall health. We strongly recommend that parents take action early to ensure the health of their children’s teeth because attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life.

Children’s teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and a healthy smile is important to a child’s self-esteem. With proper care, a balanced diet and regular dental visits, their teeth can remain healthy and strong.

Please make sure that we see your child within six months of the eruption of the first tooth as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA),

See DENTAL, Page 26

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Do you have a parent you are planning to care for? Are you over 55?

The expo is a fun and efficient way to Meet, Greet and Gather information from dozens of vendors from every phase.

Wherever you are in your journey the EXPO has something for you!

Meet and greet over 40 vendors • Go deeper with one of our exclusive informational talks Heavy hors d’oeuvres • Dozens of door prizes Presented by:

Saturday, March 24 • 10 am – 2 pm

The Metropolitan Club, 5895 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta To pre-register or for more information, visit NorthFulton.com. Follow us on

; Facebook.com/AppenMediaGroup

26 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Show your heart some love Early screenings and changes in diet and exercise can save lives When people think of February, Valentine’s Day usually comes to mind. It’s often filled with hearts.

Chocolate hearts, hearts held in the paws of plush bears and heart-shaped jewelry. But there’s a DR. ANDERSON heart you cannot see and it may be in need of some love.

Every 42 seconds someone has a heart attack in the United States. In a year, 610,000 Americans die from heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. But many heart conditions are preventable through early heart screenings and changes in lifestyle.

The WellStar Cardiac Network is finding ways to fight heart disease and provide people with the support they need to be successful.

One of them is the Know Your Heart program, a screening that can help determine patients’ risk for heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions.

The WellStar Know Your Heart program is a preventive, self-pay screening program that offers two levels of testing performed at WellStar North Fulton Hospital. Patients can get basic or advanced screenings depending on their age, symptoms and risk factors.

“This is a very successful program offered by WellStar Health System ¬– and we’re excited to offer it here at North Fulton,” said Hunt Anderson, M.D., medical director of North Fulton’s cardiology program. “We know that

Dental: Continued from Page 24 and certainly no later than the child’s first birthday. Preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatments provide your child with “smile insurance” for a lifetime!

Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease. 5 X times more common than Asthma.

Tooth decay is entirely preventable.

3 out of every 5 children are affected by tooth decay.

51 million school hours are missed

Life changes go a long Suresh Ramamurthy, M.D., a WellStar cardiologist in Roswell, shares some tips to keep a healthy heart: • Scheduling a heart screening with WellStar or visiting your primary care physician for a wellness check • Quitting tobacco, as chemicals in tobacco will interfere with the heart and its blood circulation • Doing 30 minutes of moderate activity per day, five days per week • Maintaining a healthy diet with limited saturated fat (such as in red meat) and trans fat (found in bakery products, for instance) and more fruits, vegetables and whole grains • Sleeping seven to nine hours every night, as lack of sleep leads to a higher risk of heart problems as well as depression and obesity.

cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes can often be prevented if risk factors are addressed, so it is vital that our community be more proactive.”

The screening uses a combination of patient history and laboratory tests, as well as an optional cardiac CT scan, a rapid, low-radiation imaging test that looks for calcium buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply the heart; these tests can identify heart disease, possibly before someone shows any signs or symptoms.

“Each screening includes a consultation where we give the patient education on how to improve their risk factors going forward. If there is a specific risk that needs to be addressed immediately, we then arrange for the patient to discuss these results with a WellStar cardiologist,” Dr. Anderson said.

During the consultation, patients receive risk factor education, diet and exercise recommendations, as well as a personalized report to take home.

To determine eligibility and to schedule an appointment for a Know Your Heart screening call 770-756STAR (7827). due to oral health problems. Every $1 spent on prevention in oral care can save you $8-$50 on restorative and emergency procedures.

If you wish for any further information on any aspect of your child’s dental and oral health, please call us at 678-894-7926 or visit us on the web at www.HiTechSmiles.com. We’d be happy to help in any way we can!

We do see many children of our adult patients.

P.S- Kid’s, don’t forget to enter into our Hershey Kisses Guessing Contest to win a $25 Skyzone Giftcard and another $25 Redbox Giftcard! Winner will be awarded mid-February!

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 27

You can’t SEE your HEART.

How do you know it’s healthy?

We can Help. The Know Your Heart screening can determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions — things you may not even be aware of. It’s simple, fast, affordable, and provides insight into your heart’s overall health. Your test results will be reviewed with you by a WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine healthcare professional.

Packages Available Starting at $49 Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment.

All services performed at WellStar North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd, Roswell, GA 30076

wellstar.org

28 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Investing in a healthy, beautiful smile may be one of the smartest moves brides and grooms can make as they plan their big day! Advances in orthodontic treatment can offer a beautiful smile faster, and more affordably, than ever before. Long after the flowers have faded and the reception lights are dimmed, a gorgeous smile is a gift that stays with you happily ever after.

Clear aligners and tooth colored braces made with ceramic brackets are practically invisible, and these are popular options for adults. Even the orthodontic wires can be tooth colored so people don’t even notice that you are in treatment. The time between appointments is now longer than it used to be, usually six weeks, due to improved treatment mechanics. That is good news for working people. More good news is how quickly patients begin to see an improvement in their smile.

One in four patients is now an adult! The American Association of Orthodontists attributes the rise in adult

orthodontics to the improved self-esteem and self-confidence that comes with orthodontic treatment. Patients tell us their social lives improve after treatment, and we can see the changes that happen as people just smile more often and with more self-confidence.

Affordability of treatment is a frequent question, and there is good news here too. Orthodontists are one of the few healthcare professionals that offer payment plans, making monthly payments quite manageable over the treatment time. Many employers are including adult orthodontic coverage in their dental plans in addition to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) that allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars that can cover treatment. At the end of the day, this is a lifetime investment in your health and appearance.

Your wedding day is a perfect opportunity to have the ‘picture perfect’ smile! Your wedding day is also probably the most photographed day of your life. Why not make those photos sparkle forever with a healthy, beautiful smile?

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 29

What’s new in Melanoma - Part 2 Brought to you by: Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and MOHS Surgery of Atlanta In last issue’s installment, we discussed what melanoma is and talked about true Mohs surgery for melanoma, a tissue sparing technique for removing melanomas and melanoma in situ in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas. This week, we look into diagnostic, prognostic and treatment advances for invasive and metastatic melanomas.

One of the most exciting recent advances is a new method of genetic testing for melanoma. Pioneers at Castle Biosciences have developed a test that is performed on melanoma tissue and that can allow a doctor to better know how a melanoma will behave. The test is called DecisionDx-Melanoma. Remarkably, this test is capable of looking at genetic signatures within a melanoma and identifying whether a melanoma is likely to have spread or likely to have remained in place and have been cured surgically. The test is so accurate that it may provide even more information than a “sentinel lymph node biopsy” – a procedure that involves removing and testing lymph nodes to check for melanoma cells. In all likelihood, for many tumors, the DecisionDx -Melanoma Test and sentinel lymph node biopsies will be used together and provide previously unavailable predictive power.

DecisionDx-Melanoma uses genetic testing of a patient’s melanoma tissue to divide the melanoma into a “Class 1” (good) or a “Class 2” (bad) result. According to summary data, for a patient with a low risk Class 1 result, the chance of the tumor spreading within 5 years is approximately 3%. For a patient with a high risk Class 2 result, the chance of a tumor spreading with 5 years is approximately 69%. This is a startlingly stark dichotomy.

For metastatic melanomas, the longawaited age of personalized or targeted therapies has begun to arrive. In years past, “chemotherapy” meant taking medicines that are not very good at sorting out good cells from bad cells. Traditional chemotherapy involves medicines that usually work by killing cells that are growing quickly. Cancer usually grows quickly, so chemotherapy affects cancer.

But some of our own tissues constantly grow and turn over. Our hair and our bowel cells are constantly being replaced and growing quickly, so chemotherapy results in the expected baldness and gastrointestinal side-effects.

New chemotherapies are finally targeting the bad cells and sparing more of the good. For example, patients whose melanomas have a specific mutation in a gene called “BRAF” have available to them drugs such as Vemurafenib,

which specifically acts on a specific gene that is often mutated in melanoma. Likewise, medications such as Nivolumab stimulate a person’s own immune system to fight a cancer.

The way that drugs like Nivolumab work makes DR. TAYLOR them better categorized as immunotherapy than chemotherapy.

It is the dawning of a new age.

And we are already into phase 2 of this new age. In phase 1, the very first immunotherapy drugs such as ipilimumab were stimulating people’s immune systems to fight cancer, but they were also causing a lot of side-effects.

Anyone who has had the flu knows what it is like to have an overactive immune system, and ipilimumab sometimes triggered reactions similar to autoimmune disease – a condition in which one’s immune system attacks one’s own body.

This might sound like we are back to square one. Ipilimumab shares features in common with the old chemotherapy since they both seem to attack good cells as well as bad. But the good news is we may be on to a second generation of immunotherapy-like chemotherapeutics.

Nivolumab is a medicine that is a close cousin to Ipilimumab. Both stimulate the immune system to fight cancer. Recent studies including one just published in late 2017 in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that, in stage III and IV melanoma patients Nivolumab resulted in a 12-month rate of recurrence-free survival of 70.5% whereas ipilimumab only resulted in 60.8%. More importantly, only 9.7% of patients taking nivolumab discontinued due to side effects (adverse events) whereas 42.6% of patients taking ipilimumab discontinued due to adverse events. We may not just be at the doorstep of targeted therapies.

We may already be on the second step.

Additional exciting advances are taking place, but the most important point about melanoma is that the best chance to cure melanoma is when a melanoma is caught small. If you or a loved one has a changing or concerning spot, make an appointment with a dermatologist. At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, we are proud to be one of the only practices in Georgia offering true Mohs surgery for melanoma and melanoma in situ. We counsel patients about DecisionDx Melanoma testing and help patients navigate the complicated world of sentinel lymph node biopsies and when to see an oncologist or surgical oncologist. If you have a history of skin cancer or a concerning spot, consider making an appointment with Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta today.

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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.

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Chief Superior Court Judge Jeffrey S. Bagley has announced he will seek re-election to a sixth term.

The nonpartisan race will be May 22, the same day as the primary election.

Bagley has served as a judge in Forsyth County for more than 20 years.

Prior to being tapped for a Superior Court judgeship by Governor Roy Barnes in August 2000, Bagley served as the county’s sole State Court judge.

He was appointed to that position by Governor Zell Miller in January 1997 and re-elected to a four-year term the following year. In addition to his duties in State Court, Bagley served as Juvenile Court judge until a full-time judge was hired. He became Chief Superior Court judge in 2003.

A lifetime resident of Forsyth County, Bagley is a graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University School of Law. He joined the Cumming firm of Boling Rice as a civil trial attorney after being admitted to practice law in Georgia in 1987. He was named as a partner in the firm before becoming a judge.

Bagley is a member of the State Bar of Georgia, Forsyth County Bar Association, Council of Superior Court Judges of Georgia, Council of Accountability Court Judges of Georgia and the

National Association of Drug Court Professionals having recently served a six-year term on its Board of Directors.

As a judge, Bagley annually works with local elementary school students through the BAGLEY Partners in Education Program sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce. He also participates in the county’s annual mock trial competition by judging the championship round.

Bagley founded the Forsyth County Drug Court in 2004 and continues to preside over that accountability program which diverts certain felony drug offenders to an alternative to prison consisting of extensive treatment and rehabilitation including a strict drug testing regimen.

Bagley currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Council of Accountability Court Judges and chairs the Standards and Certification Committee for that council.

Bagley is a member of numerous civic and community organizations, including the South Forsyth Rotary Club, Longstreet Baptist Church, CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce and Lawyer’s Club of Atlanta. He also serves as vice-chairman of the Board of Citizens Bank of Forsyth County.

Joanna Cloud to run for House District 24 FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Executive Director of the Lake Lanier Association, Joanna Cloud recently announced her plans to run for the District 24 seat in the State House of Representatives.

The Lake Lanier Association is a non-profit advocacy group. A Georgia Tech graduate and a Forsyth County resident for the past 13 years, Cloud spent over 20 years in the software development industry before moving into her non-profit management role.

“I have been blessed to serve my community in a wide variety of school, social service and environmental roles and would like to further my service in

the House of Representatives,” Cloud said. “It takes strong leadership to tackle the challenges we face with education, transportation, economic development and infrastructure. I have a proven track record CLOUD working with a diverse set of interests and finding solutions that work. That is the type of leadership I am running to provide.”

She says her focus would be on education, infrastructure and transportation issues.

Share your opinions northfulton.com

BEHIND THE BLACKBOARD

SCHOOLS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 31

Johns Creek Elementary custodian shines among peers

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — When Johns Creek Elementary School opened in 2007, custodian Betsy Hodkinson was there ready to help wherever she was needed.

Now, 11 years later, she is the head custodian at the school, still helping students, teachers and parents.

Every morning at 6 a.m., Hodkinson opens the school, raises the American flag outside, sets up the front office, cleans up from any events the night before and makes coffee for the teachers.

“I enjoy the work,” she said. “The teachers are funny and the kids are great to interact with, especially the little ones. They all call me, ‘Mrs. Betsy.’”

After moving to Forsyth County from Wisconsin in 2006, Hodkinson stayed at home for a bit before deciding she wanted to return to work as a custodian.

As the school is opening at 8:20 a.m., she gets to work filling out paperwork, setting up for lunch and helping the students come in from the buses.

She is responsible for managing the

custodial crew which is composed of four other workers.

“The hardest part is managing the different nationalities,” she said. “One person is Hispanic, another from Croatia and another from Haiti. I try to get all them together to mingle and form a team.”

The students are the reason she comes to work every day. One little girl bought her a necklace last year to show her appreciation.

“She’ll ask me every day to wear it to school,” Hodkinson said. “I can’t really wear it because it’s too fancy. I wore it one day and she saw me with it.

I told her to tell her mom I love it and it’s beautiful. She got a big kick seeing me in the necklace.”

The teachers are great to work with, she said.

“They’re supportive of me and I’m supportive of them,” Hodkinson said.

“They had a game called ‘A Diamond in the Rough.’ They nominated me as one.

Because I do such background work, they thought I was one. They presented me with gifts. It was so nice.”

The teachers’ admiration continued when they nominated Hodkinson as

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Betsy Hodkinson, head custodian at Johns Creek Elementary School, was honored as a “diamond in the rough” last year by her coworkers. the December Employee of the Month throughout the entire school district, an honor she won.

“They know how hard I work,” she said. “I support them and they support

me. When I found out, I started bawling. It was a big thing. I was overwhelmed. I intend do this as long as I can. I enjoy what I do.”

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32 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

CASA hosts 10th Superhero Run

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by Emily McManus, DVM RSVP to 770-667-9022 or email to staff@lovinghands.com The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) estimates more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have oral disease by the time they are three years old, often indicated by bad breath, a change in eating or chewing habits, pawing at the face and mouth or depression. A few minutes with our doctors can help your four-legged family member lead a healthier and happy life.

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CUMMING, Ga. — Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, of Forsyth County, Inc. announced it will hold its 10th annual CASA Superhero Run on Feb. 10.

The Superhero Run and 5K will be held at Academy Sports at The Collections, 320 Peachtree Parkway. This new location will offer a flat 5K route that will be a Peachtree-qualifier perfect for the serious runner, families and everyone in between.

An official 5k start time is designated for 8:30 a.m. and a 9:30 a.m. start for the Fun Run both at Academy Sports.

Because the CASA program believes every child needs a hero, but abused and neglected children need superheroes, the CASA Superhero Run features 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 although this is not mandatory.

All funds raised by the CASA Superhero Run are used to train volunteer advocates who become the voice for a child involved in Juvenile Court depri-

CASA, OF FORSYTH COUNTY, INC./SPECIAL

Because the CASA program believes every child needs a hero, but abused and neglected children need superheroes, the CASA Superhero Run features a superhero theme.

vation proceedings. CASA of Forsyth County recruits, screen, trains and supervises volunteers to advocate for the best interests of foster children and to ensure the quality of volunteer advocacy for the children they serve.

Entry fees for the CASA Superhero Run are $35 after Jan. 31. Fees for the 1K Fun Run are $15 after Jan. 31.

Participants may also sign up as a team of five or more runners and a student discount of $5 is offered.

For more information, visit casasuperheroforsyth.org.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 33

Southern comedy featured at Playhouse Former Forsyth ‘Southern Sirens’ runs Feb. 8-25 CUMMING, Ga. — An original Southern comedy by a North Georgia playwright will take center stage at the Cumming Playhouse in February. “Southern Sirens,”

by Dahlonega resident Alicia Lane Dutton, will run at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m.

Sundays Feb. 8-25.

Focusing on the misadventures of four feisty, middle-aged Southern ladies – Grace, Lilah, Celia, Kristin and Bridget – “Southern Sirens” provides plenty of laughs, as well as tender moments, for audiences to enjoy.

During the group’s annual pilgrimage to the beach, Grace discovers a note to her husband from the local home wrecker, Dixie Lynn Lee, asking him to consider a salacious proposition. The ladies then become consumed with devising a plan to lure Dixie Lynn to the beach house so they can show her the error of her ways.

Originally from Tuscaloosa, Ala. and having resided in New Orleans, Key West, Montana, Alaska and Berlin before settling in Dahlonega, Dutton said she is very proud of her Southern roots. She has written several other plays, musicals, novels and screenplays, all of which focus on Southern culture.

She has garnered numerous awards for her screenplays at many film festivals, including the Charleston International Film Festival, the Austin Revolution Film Festival, Broad Humor in Los Angeles, the Lindsay Film Festival, and the Boomtown Music and Film Festival, among others.

In addition to being produced to sell-out audiences at venues throughout the South, “Southern Sirens” was selected for a New York reading by the Bechdel Group, and was presented on New Play Day at Wingate University in North Carolina.

While Dutton is no stranger Alicia Lane Dutton to the Cumming Playhouse, having performed there as Linda Porter in the May 2017 production of “Red, Hot and Cole,” this will be the first time for one of her shows to be presented there.

“I fell in love with the venue [during ‘Red, Hot and Cole’], and I think the Cumming Playhouse audiences will definitely appreciate the Southern humor of ‘Southern Sirens,’” she said.

Tickets to “Southern Sirens” are $25, or $22.50 for veterans, seniors 60 and over, students age 18 and under, and groups of 25 or more. They can be purchased at playhousecumming.com or by calling 770-781-9178.

superintendent passes away

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Dr. Allene Magill, executive director of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, passed away at home unexpectedly Jan. 27.

At 93,000 members, PAGE is Georgia’s largest professional association for educators.

Magill was the executive direcMAGILL tor since July 2003, following superintendent positions in Paulding, Forsyth and Dalton. During Magill’s storied career she was twice named superintendent of the year for Georgia, served on the Board of Regents for the University System of Georgia, was president of the Georgia School Superintendents Association and the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders. She also provided leadership on numerous state committees related to education, most recently on the Educational Turnaround Advisory Council, which selected the state’s new chief turnaround officer for struggling schools.

Arrangements will be announced when details are available.

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34 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY/SPECIAL

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Temporary shelving will be replaced with new furnishings and library staff will shelve more than 100,000 books and materials before the grand re-opening event on March 24.

Sharon Forks Library closing to complete construction FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Construction on the second phase of the expansion and renovation project at the Sharon Forks Library is nearly complete. The branch will be closed Monday, February 19 through Friday, March 23 as construction crews and library staff work to complete the finishing touches, install furnishings and shelve thousands of new materials.

During that time, construction crews will install remaining fixtures and trim, as well as conduct final inspections. Then, movers will install furnishings, shelving and equipment.

Finally, library staff will shelve over 100,000 books and materials and set up computers for public use.

In preparation for this final stretch of construction, the library will accept holds for materials at Sharon Forks through February 5. All books and materials on hold should be picked up before the Sharon Forks Library closes.

Patrons may continue to request materials on hold at the Cumming, Hampton Park and Post Road branches.

For the convenience of library patrons, an outdoor book return will remain available at Sharon Forks throughout the closure.

Library patrons are encouraged to browse the collections and participate in programs for children, teens and adults at the Cumming, Hampton Park and Post Road libraries while work at Sharon Forks is completed.

Throughout February and March library staff will be posting photos and updates on the Sharon Forks construction website, as well as on social media.

Additional reminders and announcements will be sent to patrons who subscribe to email or text message alerts.

For more information, or to sign up for email or text alerts, visit forsythpl. org/sharonforks.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 35

Swim and dive state champions crowned

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA — North Fulton and Forsyth County were well represented at the GHSA swim and dive state championship at Georgia Tech Feb. 1-3. Local programs captured multiple individual state championships and Blessed Trinity won the girls 4A-5A team state title.

Alpharetta (6A) Alpharetta compiled a strong showing in the finals on Saturday, with the boys finishing third in team scores and the girls fifth.

The boys were led by freshman Jerry Wu who placed sixth in 200-yard freestyle and 500-yard event. Wu, along with Charles Lu, Andy Cross and Phillip Kuznetsov, placed third in the 400yard freestyle relay. Alpharetta placed fourth in the 200-yard medley relay with Cross, Kuznetsov, Nathan Jin and Brandon Lu. In girls competition, Cali Murray placed second in the 200-yard freestyle and third in the 500. The girls’ 400yard freestyle relay finished fifth. The Raiders were fourth in the 200-yard freestyle relay. Alexandra Clark, Alicia

Henry and Jenna Burnette all placed in the top 10 in individual competition.

Forsyth Central (7A) The Bulldogs earned eight top 10 finishes at the state championship meet, with the girls placing ninth in team scores.

Thomas Eaton and Nicklas Bohn had strong showing in boys’ competition. Eaton took eighth in the 100-yard butterfly and Bohn finishing fourth in the 400-yard freestyle and 12th in the 100-yard backstroke.

The girls’ team was led by Ashley Cesario and Mia Shaffer. Shaffer finished as state runner-up in the 100-yard breaststroke and fifth in the 50-yard freestyle. Cesario had top 10 placings in the 100-yard butterfly and 100-yard freestyle.

Shaffer, Cesario, Amanda Cesario and Katie Semler earned sixth in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

Lambert (7A) Lambert’s boys and girls finished on the podium in team scores with the girls placing second and the boys in third.

For the full recap of all North Fulton and Forsyth County teams, visit www.northfulton.com.

The Longhorns’ relay teams all placed in the top-five of their respective events. The girls’ 200-yard medley relay team won a state championship behind Caroline Aikens, Sydney Havrilla, Lauren Martin and Lilia Smith. The girls’ 400-yard freestyle team placed third and the 200-yard freestyle team secured fifth.

The boys’ 200-yard freestyle relay team of Lleyton Smith, Wyatt Dalton, Alexander Reyman and Mikhail Johnston came in second, just 0.26 seconds behind Brookwood. Lambert placed third in the 200-yard medley relay and fifth in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

Aikens captured two individual state championship in the 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard backstroke.

Lilia Smith placed second in the 200-yard freestyle. She also placed in the top-five in the 100-yard event.

Lleyton Smith came away with a

state runner-up finish in the 100-yard backstroke.

Milton (7A) Milton’s seniors led the Eagles to fifth place in team scores, capturing two state championships in the process.

Senior Raunak Khosla won individual titles in the 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard butterfly. He captured the butterfly title with nearly a two-second margin.

Jack Dubois placed as state runner-up in the 500-yard freestyle, while Wilson Dubois finished ninth in 200yard event.

Milton’s 200- and 400-yard freestyle relay teams, with James Dailey, Khosla and Jack and Wilson Dubois, placed in the top-10.

The team placed seventh in the 200yard and second in the 400-yard, less than a second behind Brookwood.

North Forsyth (7A) The Raiders earned six top-10 finishes in individual events at this year’s

See SWIM, Page 36

SPORTS

36 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists

Swim:

Continued from Page 35 state championship meet.

Hailey Galbraith led the girls, placing third in the 100-yard butterfly and fourth in the 50-yard freestyle.

The girls’ 200-yard medley relay team finished 15th in 7A. The 400-yard freestyle team was disqualified.

Hunter Galbraith placed 10th in the 50- and 100-yard freestyle. In the 100yard backstroke, Alexander Gonzalez finished eighth.

South Forsyth (7A) South Forsyth’s girls’ team earned their second straight seventh-place finish in team scores on Saturday.

The girls placed in the top-10 in the 200-yard medley relay and the 200and 400-yard freestyle relays.

Caroline Perry had the highest individual performance with a third-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke. Perry also finished sixth in the 200-yard individual medley.

Jordan Edwards placed in the top 10 in the 100-yard breaststroke and the 200-yard individual medley.

Emilie Flynn, Emery Betzer and Mary-Kate Wichalonis all earned spots in the finals of the 500-yard freestyle.

Flynn led the trio of War Eagles in sixth.

For the boys, Cooper Gilson raced to fifth in the 100-yard breaststroke and 10th in the 200-yard individual medley.

Gilson, Jake Taulbee, John Ryan and Riley James finished seventh in the boys’ 200-yard medley relay.

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West Forsyth’s Sheridan Schreiber captured a state title for the Wolverines Saturday as the program fielded a limited number of entries.

Schreiber won her title in the 100yard breaststroke, up from her fourth place finish last year. Just behind Schreiber in the 7A event was teammate June Phang in third.

Schreiber finished fourth in the 100-yard butterfly and led the girls’ 200-yard medley relay and 400-yard freestyle teams to seventh and 12th place finishes.

Jack Aikens finished 10th in the boys 100-yard backstroke. Aikens joined Brett Sasser, Trey Cisco and Christopher Knapp to lead the Wolverines to 13th in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 8, 2018 | 37

Teenage siblings create ‘notOK’ app to help others

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After 15-year-old Hannah Lucas developed a debilitating syndrome last year that brought on fainting spells, her world changed.

She fell into a deep depression with anxiety.

“Everything was new and shiny when I went to high school last year,” Hannah said. “But during the second week, I fainted. It started becoming a regular thing.”

By the end of her freshman year at South Forsyth High School, she had missed nearly 200 days of classes due to her condition.

“I didn’t know how to manage my symptoms back then, so I was passing out everywhere,” Hannah said. “It spiraled into a fear of what would happen if I passed out and no one was around.

What if I hit my head? What if I passed out and people took advantage of me?”

It was during one of her darkest moments when she was alone in her room and contemplating self-harm when she thought of the idea of creating a notOK app.

“My mom and I were crying one night when I said, ‘I wish I had an app so I could reach out to my friends when I’m feeling like this or when I feel like I’m going to pass out,’” she said. “I wanted to send out a message to some

The notOK app serves as a digital panic button.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Siblings Charlie, 13, and Hannah Lucas, 16, use the notOK app to seek help when they’re feeling down or need assistance.

people that I passed out or I wasn’t OK [and provide my] GPS location so they could come find me.”

The app is now available in iOS on Apple phones and Android for a $2.99 monthly or annual subscription rate.

“For safety and reassurance, I would pay that over and over again just to

make sure they’re OK,” said her mom, Robin.

Hanna went to her brother, Charlie, and her mom to see if they could help.

Charlie, who is known as “tech support” in their household, immediately started working on a solution.

The two took coding and entrepreneurship classes that summer at local colleges and Charlie worked on wire framing the app’s basic premise. He built a website and created the company’s first logo.

Robin was a bit taken aback initially when she realized her children worked together for the same cause.

“Compared to what we went through last year, this is a lot brighter,” Robin said. “My husband and I are impressed.

I wasn’t this mature at her age. I didn’t

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

go through half the things she did last year in my adult life. They have a business basically at 13 and 16-years-old.

We’re just sitting back and watching them fly.”

Most children have probably experienced similar feelings, Hannah said, which is why she wanted to create the app.

“It’s a sad fact, but addressing the problem is a step closer to solving it,” she said. “If we can get people to open up more, then we can address it and take a step further. It’s what society needs today. This app is really important not only to me, but people experiencing the same thing to know they are not alone and take one more step to getting the help they need.”

To learn more, visit notokapp.com.

38 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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40 | February 8, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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