Forsyth Herald, February 11, 2015 by Appen Media Group

Health & Wellness Sponsored section ►►PAGE 22

Woman shot while asleep Suspects still at large ►►PAGE 2

Rabid raccoon

Animal found on Redd Road ►►PAGE 6

Purrrfect home Humane Society opens new cat habitat ►►PAGE 15

February 11, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 7

Commissioners approve building of storage unit next to Montessori By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

Forsyth Central made it to the top two, including the students for their defensive and plaintiff sides. In back, from left, are assistant coach Eric Prince, Colin Gardner, Corey Vascocu, Kyle Butler, Alan Coalla, Keegan Householder, Mathew Johnson, Ben Anderson, Taylor Nix, Thomas Bray and Austin McTier. In front, from left, are Rachael Meehan, Nicole Strunk, Kimmy Lopez, Mia Kologranic, head coach Michele Dugan, Amy Zhai, Jillian Fincher, Makayla Kennedy and Abrianna DePuy.

Forsyth Central, Lambert place in top three during regional mock trial Cambridge nabs first By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — While most students enjoy taking a break over the weekend, that was not the “case” for 150 students from Forsyth and North Fulton who chose to spend their weekend in court Jan. 30 – 31.

For two days, students from Cambridge, Centennial, Forsyth Central, Lambert, Milton, North Forsyth, South Forsyth and West Forsyth high schools gathered in downtown Cumming to compete in the Region 17 Georgia High School Mock Trial. Students battled during the first two rounds, with their plaintiff and defense teams often participating at the same time to have eight simultaneous rounds, said Melissa

Banker, one of the coordinators for the event. Banker said the second round is the powermatched round. “We have the scores from round one and followed the formula designed by the state to form power-matching, so we then come up with the two strongest teams in first and second place,” Banker said. In the end, the top three teams – Cambridge, Forsyth

See TRIAL, Page 34

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Despite some public backlash, the Forsyth County Commissioners TAM voted Feb. 5 to amend zoning conditions that would allow the building of a storage unit at 2850 Old Atlanta Road. This has caused some members of the public to speak out against this because the proposed storage unit would be located next to Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs. District two Commissioner

See APPROVED, Page 4

The commissioners held administrative hearings for the following businesses: • Food Mart¸ 3845 Browns Bridge Road, had one citation for underage sales with no prior citations in the last 24 months. A letter of warning was placed in their file. • Midway Fuel and Shine, 4870 Atlanta Highway, had a previous citation for an underage sale within the last 24 months. This is their second citation for the same violation. They had a one-day suspension the following Sunday. • Alpha Food Mart, 6700 Atlanta Highway, had a second citation for underage sales within the past 24 months. Their license was suspended for three days. • BP AM/PM Mini Mart, 2291 Atlanta Highway, had their first citation for an underage sale in the past 24 months. A letter of warning was placed in their file. • AM/PM Fuels No. 6, 901 Buford Highway, had four citations from 2011 – 2014, so their alcohol license was revoked.

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Brian Tam said he wanted to clear up some misconceptions about the proposed building, the biggest being they’re building it specifically for a storage unit. “The biggest misinformation out there is we’re zoning this for a storage unit — we’re not,” Tam said. “A storage unit can be built there right now. The only hiccup that we have is taking that existing building, which is two stories tall, and putting a floor/ ceiling in it that doubles the square footage of the building from 14,000 to 28,000 square feet.” The property is zoned commercial and it’s next to commercial, Tam said. He also said he was on the board of commissioners when they

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Woman shot in her home By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

CUMMING, Ga. — A woman was awoken at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 2 to a male and female allegedly attempting to burglarize her house at Pilgrim Mill Road and Magnolia Avenue. The woman was asleep when she heard noises in her home and went to investigate. She then interrupted the burglary by shooting at the burglars. The

resident was able to fire several rounds at the perpetrator with her own weapon, according to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The homeowner was then shot in the stomach, but was able to contact 911 as the suspects fled the scene. Deputies investigated the burglary and shooting and are following up on several leads. The homeowner was transported to the hospital, but was conscious and alert and talking to police and paramedics. She was reportedly shot three

POLICE BLOTTER

her own warrants. She said she would.

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

Women argue in bank line CUMMING, Ga. — A verbal argument between two women took place Jan. 23 at BB&T Bank, 214 Dahlonega St., according to police reports. An officer stopped a woman as she was driving away from the bank. The woman reportedly said she had gotten out of her car and into a verbal argument with another woman in the bank’s drive-through line. She said she asked the other woman to “have her documents prepared before she clogs the drive-through for 11 minutes.” The woman went on to say nothing happened and she made no threats but that she was just yelling and carrying on. The woman said she apologized for her actions and went on her way. When the officer spoke to the second woman, the complainant, she told the officer the same story. The officer said she appeared emotional, and asked what her options were in pressing charges. The report said the complainant didn’t mention any direct threats nor threats of violence – just an agitated person scaring her – but said she believed the other woman might have kicked her car. The officer told her that the first woman said she nearly fell when returning to her vehicle and fell on to the complainant’s vehicle. The officer reportedly said the complainant was not satisfied with his service. He told her if she felt that he did not perform his duties, she could obtain

Couple discover broken in car FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A couple walking their dog Jan. 25 on the hiking trails at the end of Trout Place Road reported they saw a car’s window smashed in, according to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. Before a deputy arrived on scene, the car owner returned and noticed his phone and wallet were missing, including his license and four credit cards. The couple who called the police reportedly noticed a black Ford F150 sitting in front of the car with its hazard lights blinking. Because there was no evidence that could link to a suspect, officers are still looking for the driver’s missing property.

Man sleeps in car in middle of highway FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office received four phone calls Jan. 27 about a vehicle that was stopped in the middle of Highway 20 at Windermere Parkway. The calls were about an older male who was allegedly asleep or passed out behind the wheel of a white Cadillac, and the vehicle was blocking traffic. The officer spoke to the driver and asked if he knew what was going on. The man told the officer he was just very tired from working two jobs. When the officer asked the man to get out of his car, he noted the man wasn’t steady on his feet and performed a field sobriety test. The officer determined the man was under the influence of drugs and he was placed under arrest.

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times, in the stomach, leg and arm. The suspects are described as a black male and a black female who left the area in an unknown vehicle. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Tyler Sexton at 770-886-2800, ext. 3323 or call dispatch at the non-emergency number, 770-781-3087. They can also be reached by private message on the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Fireworks enrage neighbor FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Lexington Village neighbor reportedly called the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Jan. 24 about a fireworks complaint. The complainant reported to the sheriff’s office his neighbors are setting off fireworks every three to four nights at about 9:45 p.m. The officer noticed an odor of fireworks and smoke in the air upon his arrival. The complainant told the officer he complained about the fireworks before and they stopped for several months. He said the neighbor he believes is shooting off the fireworks also manufactures some in his garage and gets together with other neighbors to shoot them off. The officer attempted to contact the resident with the reported fireworks, but no one would come to the door.

Man receives order he never placed FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A local man received a package Jan. 27 from Guitar Center, but said he never placed an order. The man reportedly called the sheriff’s office after the package arrived with his name on the shipping label. The package contained a Rogue Guitar Amp, so he called Guitar Center. The store said it was bought with a Discover card, but wouldn’t release the name of the person who bought it. The man told the officer he doesn’t own a Discover card and confirmed with the credit card company that one had not been taken in his name. The man reportedly told the offi-

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Blotter: Continued from Page 2 cer he made a purchase from Guitar Center around Dec. 30, 2014, but it was piano-related. He told the officer none of his children made the purchase and he was unaware of anyone else who could have. The officer called Guitar Center, but they couldn’t release any information without a subpoena.

Loose cable damages cars FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Forsyth County Sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to a low hanging cable Jan. 27 at Bethelview Road and Highway 9. Upon arrival, the officer met with a man who reportedly said the cable hit his car and a second car. The officer saw a cable dangling in the northbound, right lane of Bethelview Road that was attached to another cable that spanned the width of the roadway above it. The officer reported the cable had multiple roadway signs attached to it and was attached to two concrete poles on both sides of the road. The man reportedly said the lower cable broke free from the eastern side pole and struck his vehicle as well as the car behind his. He said his car had no damage and the car behind his was struck in the windshield. A woman arrived on the scene to say her car was also damaged and that the cable struck her driver’s side mirror while she was driving in the right lane. The contracted company was notified the cable broke and vehicles were damaged.

Thief steals from Boy Scouts FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office responded to an alleged theft call Jan. 27 on Bethelview Road. A woman reportedly told

a deputy sometime between Jan. 12 and Jan. 26, someone broke into a storage shed belonging to a local Boy Scout troop and took five plastic bins containing supplies and miscellaneous items. She said two Scout members reportedly went to the shed to put some items up and noticed a piece of wood was off the door and the lock was missing. When they opened the door, they noticed water bottles, which were usually on the shelves, all over the floor. She said the Scout master and some troop members put everything back in its place. She reported they did not have an inventory of everything in the bins, but estimated the value at $200. The deputy was unable to locate any of the items.

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

DUI arrests ►► Victor Manuel Ochoa-

Zea, 32, of Sanders Road, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 24 on Atlanta Road in Cumming for DUI, no license and failure to maintain lane. ►► David Henry Burgard, 57, of Braselton was arrested Jan. 27 on Highway 20 in Cumming for DUI. ►► Christina Diane Ray, 46,

Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 3

of Lockridge Drive, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 22 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI and hit and run. ►► Amber Brianna Clark, 24, of Dawsonville was arrested Jan. 26 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI, expired tag and operating a vehicle while text messaging. ►► Joseph Michael Bishop, 27, of Dawsonville was arrested Jan. 24 on Nicholson Road in Cumming for DUI.

Drug arrests ►► Michael G. Schweinsberg,

29, of Dawsonville was arrested Jan. 22 on Pilgrim Mill Road in Cumming for possession of marijuana and

speeding. ►► Daniel Cody Ravan, 30, of Gainesville was arrested Jan. 22 on Old Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville for possession of a schedule IV controlled substance, drugs not kept in original container, wanted person and suspended license. ►► Michael Wilson, 25, of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested Jan. 20 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and loitering. ►► Andre Avery Singler, 26, of Atlanta was arrested Jan. 15 on Davis Drive in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamines and suspended license.

Family takes water from city CUMMING, Ga. — A Cumming Police officer was patrolling Denson Drive Jan. 21 when he observed a male kneeling on the ground near a water meter. The male reportedly told the officer he was fixing a leak. In his report, the officer said he observed a garden hose running from the city supply line to the crawlspace of the house. When the officer questioned him, the man said he did not connect the hose, but that he was disconnecting it. The man said he lived at the house with his cousin and his cousin’s girlfriend. The cousin’s girlfriend reportedly said she didn’t know anything about the hose. The cousin alleged that they all have hooked the hose up at night and unhooked it in the morning. The officer had the water department check for damage, but none was found. The officer also called City Hall and spoke with someone in billing, who said there has not been water service to the residence since August 2014. No charges were filed due to the lack of evidence as to who was stealing the water and no way to meter how much was stolen.

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NEWS

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Rep. Hamilton suggests ‘Parental control bill’ By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA — Rep. Mark Hamilton (R-Cumming) proposed a bill Feb. 4 that could influence Georgia’s public school students. The proposed “Parental Choice bill” would move some funding away from the state’s public HAMILTON schools in an effort to give parents greater choice regarding their child’s education. “It’s about parental choice,” Hamilton said. The bill would let parents choose if they wanted to move the money the state pays for their child’s public school education into an education savings account to be used for private school tuition, homeschooling or another alternative teaching method. Parents would still be required to pay the taxes used to support public schools.

Approved: Continued from Page 1 zoned that location and the Montessori school. “The Montessori school was very involved in the zoning of this property,” Tam said. “When we zoned it, we put a list of things on there that it could not be.” That list included tattoo parlor, gas station, 24 hours business, it could not sell adult novelty toys, or be a convenience store, Tam said. “However, it can be a storage unit right now,” Tam said. “It can also be an auto sales and service center or collision repair shop. It comes down to what is the best option. These folks are going to buy that piece of property and build on it.” Tam said he met with representatives of the Montessori school and also reached out to the community. They put together a list of some 21 conditions. A few of those conditions include no roll up doors that face Old Atlanta Road; the buildings next to Old Atlanta Road will comply with Peachtree overlay, even though that’s not required; the gables roof will look similar to the Montessori school, which is similar to the library; it has to comply with exterior lighting for Forsyth County; users can’t store boats, RVs or large trucks; there can’t be any AC or heating units on the roof; all buildings must be one story tall; any doors that are visible are of earth tone color, no bright red or green; the keypad gate is moved so it’s off Old Atlanta Road so

The proposed bill, “Parental Choice bill,” would move some funding away from the state’s public schools in an effort to give parents greater choice regarding their child’s education. “If you are entering kindergarten or first grade, you are eligible to apply if you are in the public school system for a minimum of one semester,” Hamilton said. Some lawmakers have concerns that the money could be used for other things instead of education, meaning they may seek protections to ensure the state money

is spent as intended. “To do something of that nature, there has to be some safeguards,” Democratic state Rep. Calvin Smyre of Columbus told WSB-TV. However, Smyre said he is open to the overall idea. Hamilton said the saved amount would range from $3,500 to $5,000 a year, with the student’s public school getting to keep the local portion of tax money. It would be capped at about 8,000 students the first year, with the cap ending after two years. The bill has received bipartisan support and already has 30 signatures. Gov. Nathan Deal said he agrees with the overall idea but has concerns about implementing it in Georgia. “I think all of us agree with the concept that parents should have more involvement and more choice,” Deal said. “The challenge that you face when you talk about issues like that is how do you avoid undermining the public school system?” With this bill, Hamilton hopes Georgia will follow Arizona and Florida, which have enacted similar legislation.

Pawn shops that renewed their licenses: • Five Star Pawn Inc., 1465 Dahlonega Highway • Eagle Pawn and Jewelry LLC, 699 Atlanta Road • G G Magee Antiques and Classics d/b/a Mountain View Pawn, 5695 Ga. 400, Suite 300 • Lake Lanier Pawn Shop LLC, 4295 Browns Bridge Road • Auto Cash of Buford Drive LLC, 1165 Buford Road #101 • Professional Pawn Brokers LLC, 1050 Buford Highway #106 • Auto Cash of Coal Mountain LLC, 4275 Browns Bridge Road • Rubin Brothers of Georgia Inc. d/b/a Rubin Brothers, 6080 Bethelview Road • Georgia Auto Pawn Inc., 5490 Atlanta Highway • Title Experts Inc., 1545 McFarland Parkway, Suite 103 • RK & Co. Luxury Lending LLC, 5180 McGinnis Ferry Road

The Montessori school was very involved in the zoning of this property. When we zoned it, we put a list of things on there that it could not be.” BRIAN TAM District two Commissioner

no one would be backing up traffic when people go into the school and the use of living, retail or hobbies is prohibited. Hazardous material will also be prohibited, and the units will not be available to the outside public between midnight and 5:00 a.m. “If there is a conflict between the site plan and the zoning conditions, the zoning conditions trump because some of them have been added as late as today,” Tam said. Tam said this is not easy,

popular or fun, but it is the business of the county. The motion carried 5-0. The commissioners also voted to approve the revisions to the sign ordinance to add an additional exception to the general prohibition on enlarging or altering non-confirming signs. The commissioners vote to approve that those who obtain a vegetative management permit from the state can lower the sign to 75 feet. It was approved 4-1, with Commissioner Jim Boff opposed.

Bill named for local teen who was beaten to death CUMMING, Ga. – A bill introduced to the Georgia House of Representatives has been dubbed “Michael’s Law” after Michael Gatto, a South Forsyth High graduate who was beaten to death outside a Statesboro bar in 2014. The bill is sponsored by Reps. Geoff Duncan (R-Cumming) and Mike Dudgeon (R-Johns Creek) Gatto was beaten to death outside of Rude Rudy’s by underage bouncer Grant James Spencer. Spencer has since been charged with felony murder. The bar did not have a liquor license, resulting in no compensation for Gatto’s family. The bill, House Bill 152, would deny minors the ability to serve alcohol or work as a bouncer at an establishment that serves alcohol where the alcohol is to be consumed on-site. The bill would also “change certain provisions relating to notice to the Department of Revenue of violations relating to the sale of alcoholic beverages to underage persons.” The bill is still under review in the House. – Joe Parker

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NEWS

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Sen. Williams commends Rabid raccoon found in Milton senate passage of What are the symptoms of rabies in humans? alternative diploma bill By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com

ATLANTA — State Sen. Michael Williams (R-Cumming) said Feb. 3 he commends the passage of Senate Bill 2, which authorizes local boards of education to award a high school diploma to students who complete certain requirements relating to postsecondary coursework. “Ensuring children in Georgia receive a quality K-12 education is very important to me,” said Williams. “Today, we passed a bill that will provide our students with alternative ways to earn high school diplomas, while they prepare to enter the highly skilled technical fields that are a driving force in today’s job market.” S.B. 2 will allow students, who have met the necessary requirements, to enroll in postsecondary coursework at a technical college, to earn both a high school diploma and a technical degree. In order to receive both diplomas, students must comply with Georgia code sections relating to the enrollment and coursework requirements. Students who wish to partici-

Ensuring children in Georgia receive a quality K-12 education is very important to me.” MICHAEL WILLIAMS State Sen.

Read Sen. Williams’ comments, Page 8 pate in this program must be 16 years or older, complete the ninth and tenth grades and pass the required college readiness assessment. Technical colleges will work with the State Board of Education to annually identify the areas of study where there is a shortage of workers. The Georgia Senate passed S.B. 2 in a unanimous, bipartisan vote of 56-0. It will now travel to the House of Representatives for consideration.

MILTON, Ga. – A raccoon infected with rabies was killed Jan. 24 at a home on Redd Road in Milton. The homeowner, Paula Spruill, said she heard what she thought was screaming coming from her carport about 3 p.m. “I thought it was a child,” Spruill said. It was actually a raccoon rummaging around her home. Spruill said her husband came home and the raccoon approached him. Her husband retrieved a gun and killed the animal. Animal control was called and retrieved the animal, which tested positive for rabies. “It scared the heck out of us,” Spruill said. “It was a scary experience all around.” Spruill said she and her neighbors live on large, heavily wooded lots that are home to a lot of wildlife. Rabies is a viral disease that spreads via bites from an infected animal. The virus travels up the nerves to the brain, causing swelling and eventually death. It is common in wild animals, especially raccoons. Through these animals, it can easily spread to domesticated

Early symptoms of rabies in humans are non-specific and may include fever, headache and general malaise. Later, signs of encephalopathy such as insomnia, anxiety, confusion, paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation, difficulty swallowing and hydrophobia (fear of water) may appear. Death usually occurs within days of the onset of symptoms. Usually, the incubation period is quite long and may be one to three months.

What can I do if I’ve been bitten? Thoroughly clean the wound immediately with soap and water to reduce the likelihood of rabies transmission. Call your doctor as soon as possible for advice. Your doctor can consult with the Georgia Poison Control Center at 404-616-9000 in Atlanta, or 800-282-5846 statewide, to decide whether post-exposure human rabies immune globulin (HRIG) and vaccine are recommended for this bite. Your doctor can also tell you if you need a tetanus booster or antibiotics. Once symptoms manifest themselves, it is untreatable. animals and pets and through them to people. Wild animal bites accounted for 93 percent of all rabies cases in 2009. However, no human rabies cases have occurred in Georgia since 2000. The Georgia Department of Public Health reports that foaming at the mouth is a common misconception. In humans, the disease can take months to manifest itself in symptoms, such as fever, hallucinations or hydrophobia. If addressed early enough, it is treatable with antibiotics or a vaccine.

“These symptoms may never occur or may occur only at the very last stages of the disease,” reports the Health Department. “Any nondomesticated or stray animal that acts abnormal should be suspected of having rabies. Rabid animals may stagger, appear restless, be aggressive, have difficulty walking, seem overly friendly or appear to be choking.” One of the best ways to prevent rabies from getting into a home is to vaccinate pets and instruct children to stay away from wild animals.

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OPINION

Sie ist Berlinerin Parents tend to live vicariously through their kids. Well maybe not all of them, but I do – sometimes. I studied German for years in high school and college. I wanted to speak it and was a German verb conjugating fool back in the day. But I gave up my study of the language to take Portuguese for a couple of semesters when I decided to immigrate to Brazil. It turns out, Brazil didn’t want me to immigrate there. After sending numerous resumes, I only got one job offer – and it wasn’t even in Brazil; it was in Medellin, Columbia, which at the time wasn’t the safest place to be. I ended up moving to Chile, where I learned Spanish fairly well. I remember when I returned to the States, it was a chore to make myself speak English. Reading in Spanish is still something I treasure, even if I have lost so much of what makes it magic. Today, I speak neither German nor Portuguese, and my Spanish is pitiful but somewhat functional. When my daughter Amelia told me that she was determined to become fluent in German, I started to tell her how hard that language was. But I stopped myself. Instead, I smiled and told her she would learn best by living there. Now 24, Amelia actually moved to Berlin a year ago to study German and to try to find a job in a ballet company in Europe. She came home for Christmas for three weeks and we just sent her back on

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the plane for Berlin for the next part of her adventure. Amelia and I FaceTime frequently, so she hasn’t experienced some of the separation and isolation that I felt so long ago in Chile. While communication is easier now, she left for Berlin cold – not knowing anyone other than our cousin who lives near Hamburg. She did not have a place to live or an immediate plan when she arrived. She has auditioned in much of Europe – Budapest, Amsterdam, Rome and other cities – almost always hopping on a bus or a train by herself and sleeping in youth hostels or couch surfing. She has missed trains and has gone to the wrong city (the Prague Ballet is not in Prague for the record). She has been stranded in countries where English isn’t really spoken (Bulgaria), been sick and been hospitalized from a severe food allergic reaction. She has hiked and climbed the Swiss Alps and slept in a tiny cabin on the side of a snow-capped mountain above the clouds. And she has been rejected time after time in her auditions – in her quest to dance for people, to share a few moments of pure beauty. Yet, she

My daughter Amelia treking through the Swiss Alps. has kept her chin up and her attitude positive. Her tenacity and attitude – and that of so many other young people that she has encountered in her travels – reminds me of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation.” While they have not survived a Depression or fought a World War, they are most definitely on a mission. I believe they will not be satisfied unless they make the world a better place to live – for everyone. They don’t know what they can’t do. They have confidence, and they have skill sets that we never had. They also have something else. I recall that when Amelia was first leaving, one of her friends bode her farewell and told her simply to “be fierce.” I’ll never forget that. I think it may be a one-word description of the new generations who are following their hearts, with passion, fortitude and will. I so admire all my children. In my old age, I am discovering that the payback for all the work you invest as a parent comes back in large part when they start teaching you and making your world bigger. Berlin, back when President John F. Kennedy made his famous speech, was politically at the center of a one of the greatest tempests our world has experienced. It was the interface between East and West – between hope and despair. It represented a gate between the past and the future for us all. Today, Berlin is united and thriving in ways we could never have imagined during the Cold War. As I watch Amelia make her way in Berlin today, I am encouraged, inspired and am given hope for the future. Amelia’s Berlin represents the future to me. Be fierce – wir sind alles Berliners.

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HALLMARK HOLIDAY:

No love for Valentine’s Day The long-awaited (or longdreaded) day dedicated to telling others we love them is almost here. Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year we dedicate strictly to love and romance, but it often seems like the only day we tell others how much we care about them. A recent poll from the National Retail Federation showed Americans plan to spend around $142 each this year on Valentine’s Day. As someone who has always disliked the holiday, that’s outrageous. The same poll showed that only about 55 percent of Americans are planning to celebrate the holiday, so I may be in the slight minority of those who plan on skipping it. I’ve often wondered what makes me so anti-Valentine’s Day. I enjoy candy, flowers and watching romantic comedies. I also am a huge fan of the colors pink and red. But no matter what, I’ve always disliked Valentine’s Day. It may be because I think spending more than $100 on a specific day of the year just because many feel obligated is pointless. It also may be because the day is so built up from commercials and movies that when it arrives, it can’t fulfill the lofty expectations. One of the best Valentine’s Days I’ve had was spending time at a Waffle House with my friends to eat heart shaped

KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com

food. I’ve done fancy dinners and home-cooked meals. I’ve spent the day with family, friends and significant others. No matter what, I’m still not a fan. I’m of the belief that we should tell the people we love that we love them, every chance we get. I guess I don’t like Valentine’s Day because I don’t wait a whole year to say, “I love you.” As a culture, we build Valentine’s Day up (thanks in no small part to Hallmark and others peddling love) and have such high expectations, but shouldn’t we feel that way about the people we love every day? Instead of waiting until Feb. 14 to tell your friends, family and significant others you love them, why not start saying it as often as you can? Smile at people you walk by, give your coworkers a compliment, tell your mom why she’s the best. Whatever you plan on doing this Valentine’s Day, start the love now and keep it going on Feb. 15.

Legislature busy with budgets, education and transportation issues By Sen. Michael Williams (R-Cumming) Last week, senators and representatives took a break from the legislative session to work with agencies from across the state to determine allocation of funds for the rest of fiscal year 2015 and prepare for fiscal year 2016. During budget hearings, we went line by line through fiscal year 2015’s amended budget and the 2016 general budget to guarantee funds are being allocated appropriately. Once the amended budget has passed, work will begin on the larger 2016 fiscal year budget, which

will appropriate tax funds through June 2016. Last year, we planned for a revenue growth of 3.4 percent and ended with WILLIAMS a growth of 4.8 percent. This surplus of revenue has helped increase Georgia’s budget from $21.1 billion to $21.8 billion. Gov. Nathan Deal projects the state will collect more than $21.1 billion even before FY 2015

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Cumming Playhouse offers perfect date night show “Love Letters” runs Feb. 12 - March 8 CUMMING, Ga. – Looking for a special way to celebrate the Valentine’s season with your sweetheart? The Cumming Playhouse has the ticket. Gypsy Theatre Company will present “Love Letters” Feb. 12 through March 8. Show times are 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays. All tickets are $20 and can be purchased online at www.playhousecumming.com or by calling (770) 781-9178. The Pulitzer Prize finalist, written by A.R. Gurney, traces about 50 years in the lives of Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner, both born to wealth and position. The pair are childhood friends whose lifelong correspondence begins with birthday party thank-you notes and summer camp postcards. Romantically attached, they continue to exchange letters through the boarding school and college years. While Andrew and Melissa eventually drift apart – Melissa marries while Andrew is away at war, and he in turn also eventually marries, becomes a successful attorney and is elected to the U.S. Senate – they continue to correspond through letters.

Mercury, the show’s director, said “Love Letters” is perfect for a romantic night out. “We wanted to present this show because we really love it and it’s a good fit for Valentine’s Day and beyond,” he said. “These two characters correspond from the time they are very young until they are old. It’s very touching and beautiful.” Mercury noted that this show will feature unique casting as the two roles will alternate between different actors on different nights. He and his wife, Danielle Gustaveson, will portray Andrew and Melissa during shows on Feb. 12 to 15, followed by Mercury and Selena Anduze Feb. 19-22. Abigail Ellis and Travis Young, who has appeared on such popular television shows as “The Walking Dead” and “Resurrection,” will fill the roles Feb. 26 to March 1, while Jan and Rich Grimshaw will finish up with performances March 5-8. “We want to showcase more actors for the audiences and give more actors a chance to perform,” Mercury said of the rotation. He added that audiences will enjoy the connection between the characters, which is explored solely through their letters. “You get to see this relationship between two people over the years,” he said. “It shows the beauty and poignancy of life and all it throws at you.”

COMMUNITY

Real Estate Report: Big Canoe This mountain community, only 1 hour north of Atlanta, is the recipient of many awards including the “Nationals” silver award for Master planned Community of the Year 2014. With the increased demand for new home construction, the Big Canoe Building Group is actively building in several Big Canoe neighborhoods. The group just completed 4 homes in the “Bluffs” neighborhood. One has just sold and the three others are open and ready for immediate sale. The Bluffs neighborhood has wonderful views and is the location of many previous show homes such as the Atlanta Magazine Dream Home, Southern Living Show Home and the recent Art Show Home. Just announced by the Developer of Big Canoe, from now until the end of March 2015, all customer who purchase an existing newly constructed home by the Big Canoe Building Group will receive a full, couples one-year membership in the following Big Canoe amenities, Golf, Tennis, Swimming, Fishing and Fitness- thousands of dollars in value, free! The offer of this free amenity package extends to anyone, between February 1 and March 31, 2015, who purchases a new home to be built by the Big Canoe Building Group. And there is even more good news! Big Canoe Company also announced a third offer; the company is making available to qualified purchasers, construction loans on new homes built by the Big Canoe Building Group. Big Canoe Company does have additional new construction homes to

show you in other Big Canoe neighborhoods. If you already own a lot here, you will want to investigate how easy it is to have your home built by the Group. Vice President Matt Barnes will be glad to meet with you and explain all of the advantages of working with his group, from design and site selection, financing, all the way through to final color and finishing specifications and appliances. The Big Canoe Building Group works with Big Canoe Realty to stay current with what the marketplace wants in new construction. That list includes open floor plans (vaulted ceilings, lots of natural light,) energy efficiency, plenty of convenient storage space, roomy kitchens with the latest appliances, master bedroom on the main floor with walk-in closets and roomy baths. If you’ve been thinking about purchasing either a primary or second home in the North Georgia Mountains, now would be a great time to come up and see these new homes and talk about all the possibilities. Just contact Big Canoe Realty at 770-893-2733 for more information and to set up an appointment for your personal tour.

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SCHOOLS

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Forsyth announces Teacher of the Year finalists By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — “I couldn’t see myself teaching anywhere else,” said Marlo Miranda after learning he was the Teacher of the Year for all high schools in Forsyth County. Miranda, Forsyth Central High School’s automotive technology teacher, said what all three finalists for Teachers of the Year were thinking Feb. 4 when Forsyth County Schools surprised them with the news. After each school in the county chose its Teacher of the Year, the county narrowed down to one countywide finalist from each level. The elementary finalist from Brookwood Elementary School was Dawn James, who teaches fourth grade. The middle school finalist was science and physical education teacher Jennifer Davies, from Vickery Creek Middle School. Miranda, who has been at FCHS since 2004, said he couldn’t be more honored to represent Central.

“Being a Teacher of the Year is a great honor,” Miranda said. “But being a Teacher of the Year from this place is enormous.” The only reason he won is because of his students, who make him look really good, Miranda said. “I’m only as successful as my students are, so it’s a direct reflection of their work and dedication,” Miranda said. “Everything they do makes me proud and it brings success to our program, and ultimately to me. I’m grateful for them, their hard work and all the support they give me.” This sentiment was echoed by James, who has taught at Brookwood for five years. “Every day I get to do what I love,” James said. “I get to wake up and come to school and spend all my days with my students. They’re the reason I do what I do, and I love each one of them. They give my heart a reason to beat each day.” James didn’t always want

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said that doesn’t stop her from learning. “After class, I reflect and analyze on what I need to change or make better,” Davies said. “My colleagues push me to do that and so do my students. When a child learns something and gets it, that makes it all worthwhile.” Part of the reason she’s stayed at Vickery Creek for

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to be a teacher and she had many previous professions. But she wanted to give her students a piece of advice. “Never be afraid to choose a course, then change it,” James said. “When you figure it out, you realize you are doing what you should, and that’s how I feel.” Davies has been at Vickery Creek for 17 years, but she

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From left are James McCoy, president and CEO of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, Brookwood Elementary School Principal Kathie Braswell, Elementary School Teacher of the Year Dawn James and Superintendent Dr. Jeff Bearden.

almost two decades, Davies said, is because of the students, colleagues and community around her. She even joked about being buried in the school’s gym. “I can’t think of being anywhere else, because this is my home,” Davies said. “I’m very fortunate and I have a great support system here. I love that we all help each other out and encourage each other to get better. Because that’s what we’re here to do – we’re here to educate and it’s the best job ever.” Having a strong support system is something all three finalists credited to their success. But Miranda, who is an evaluator for most automotive schools in the Southeast, said it’s even better in Forsyth County. “Every time I go somewhere and visit a school in another county or state, I think how lucky I am to teach in a Forsyth County School,” Miranda said. “Everything is linked, everyone works together. That’s what makes Forsyth County the best school district I’ve ever seen.” One of the three finalists will be named the overall 2015 Forsyth County Schools Teacher of the Year at the Celebration of Excellence March 13.

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SCHOOLS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 13

Pinecrest students gather with Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory.

Archbishop Gregory visits Pinecrest Academy CUMMING, Ga. — Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of the Archdiocese of Atlanta visited Pinecrest Academy for the school’s Mass of Thanksgiving. The mass celebrated Pinecrest’s founding families, Catholic Schools Week and the school’s 2014 National Blue Ribbon designation. Following the mass, Gregory joined Pinecrest’s founders at a reception in their honor, and then participated in a tour of the 68acre campus. “Our students will remember this contact with their bishop for many years,” said Paul Parker, Pinecrest Academy head of school. “We are deeply grateful for the wisdom, warmth, patience, hope and encouragement he gave to every member of the Pinecrest community.” –Joe Parker

Jake Mangan, left, and Dylan Craggan accompany Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory as altar servers during the school’s Mass of Thanksgiving.

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COMMUNITY

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Dog of the week: Timmy CUMMING, Ga. — Once upon a time, there was a giant, and he was a friendly giant. Timmy is huge and friendly, but has some filling out to do, as well. The Humane Society of Forsyth County wonders just what he has been through to come in so lean, but it hasn’t changed his fantastic attitude and wonderful disposition. Timmy the Giant, made some quick progress on his basic obedience work. Timmy is listed as a little over 2 years old. As a Plott Hound/Boxer mix, he

has an appetite for pleasing his human and one that will never turn down a treat or his next meal. He loves people and other dogs, too. It’s a little bit of a head scratcher that Timmy is still with the Humane Society. You would be guaranteed a lifetime of hugs, that’s for sure. Come meet him at the Humane Society of Forsyth County, 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Open Tuesdays through Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

Cat of the week: Jessi CUMMING, Ga. — I’m one very sweet boy who really enjoys sunbathing my shiny beautiful coat. I am in the kitten room at the shelter and have been here my whole life. Although the kitten room is filled with toys and is very nice, it is not a home. I would love to find a home and a family. I really hope

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Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 15 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Humane Society opens new cat habitat By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Homeless cats from the Humane Society of Forsyth County (HSFC) now have a new place to call home and a better chance at getting adopted. The new habitat, located at Rucker Horse and Pet, 3540 Keith Bridge Road, opened Jan. 17 and is designed to hold anywhere from four to six cats depending on their size and temperament, said Mark Schullstrom Jr., the president of the board of directors for HSFC. “Each cat has two separate areas they can live in,” Schullstrom said. “We switch out the cats on a weekly basis and our cat program team decides on which cats will be there based on many different factors. Typically, it is based on trying to get them more visibility because they have been with us for a while.” The cats will be cared for by volunteers who visit each morning and night, seven days a week. The volunteers will clean the cats’ litter boxes, feed them and spend time socializing each cat, Schullstrom said. The idea came from a discussion with the owners

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Sweet Girl demonstrates her double-sided room. The new enclosure can hold from four to six cats at a time. of Rucker Horse and Pet after they talked with the HSFC about ways to increase their cat adoption exposure. They offered to put a HSFC cat habitat in one of their stores, Schullstrom said, but paying for it was the next step. “We were fortunate to not have to raise any money for this program to get it started,”

Schullstrom said. “The Schullstrom family in New Jersey acquired a cat habitat from a store that went out of business, and they donated it to the Humane Society. In order to eliminate the costs of shipping the large unit to Georgia, Kevin Herbert of Herbert Automotive drove his trailer up to New Jersey one weekend

and transported it back for us, saving us several thousands of dollars.” Schullstrom said they hope to increase the number of cats that they can place into good homes. “By having a satellite location for customers to visit, we hope to see more cats getting new homes, which will allow us

KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

to save more of the homeless cats in our community,” Schullstrom said. If all goes well, Schullstrom said they hope to expand into another Rucker location with another habitat in the next year or so. To learn more about the HSFC, visit www.forsythpets. org.

16 | February 11, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Leg vein health vitally important to your overall health? By David Park, MD, FACS and Alexander Park, MD, FACS of VeinInnovations Since VeinInnovations Johns Creek opened in 2013, surgeons David Park, MD, FACS, and Alexander Park, MD, FACS, and sclerotherapist Laura Egan, RN, APRN, have been helping women and men alike have healthier, more attractive legs. Here is information on the vital importance of venous health to your overall health. Why is venous health so

important? Venous health – the health of the leg veins carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart and lungs – impacts more than just the health of a patient’s legs. Yes, the legs are affected by varicose and spider veins, heaviness, pain, swelling, and restlessness. But because these symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) creep up slowly, many patients don’t realize how poorly their veins are functioning until they have bulging veins, a lot of pain, and/or venous stasis ulcers.

What if people are not treated? The longer people postpone treatment, the more involved treatment becomes. Delay increases the likelihood that heaviness in the legs has become a reason to forego exercise, or that pain and restlessness have compromised restorative sleep. Lack of exercise and sleep become quality-of-life issues, affecting weight gain, aging – health overall. Untreated, some patients develop venous stasis ulcers, which are difficult to treat and heal.

David Park, MD, FACS, Laura Egan, RN, APRN and Alexander Park, MD, FACS of VeinInnovations are ready to help your legs feel and look healthier. What causes poor venous health? When delicate one-way valves in leg veins fail, blood flows backward and pools, causing heaviness, pain, swelling, and bulging veins and/or spider veins. Valves fail due to age, heredity, multiple pregnancies, and/or injury. Standing or sitting for long periods of time causes problems. We also see a lot of athletes, weight lifters, and men and women who played contact sports when they were younger. Who has venous insufficiency? An estimated 33 percent of women and 25 percent of men under the age of 50 have venous insufficiency. Over the age of 50, about half of all women and 40-45 percent of men have problems. The percentages increase with age. What do patients find most surprising about treatments? Most people don’t know varicose and spider veins are symptoms of a medical condition; they believe unsightly veins are just a “cosmetic” issue. Many people don’t know insurance covers medically

indicated treatments. Patients are surprised the condition can be addressed in-office, with little or no downtime, and that treatments bring almost immediate relief. What treatments do you do and what is involved? All patients begin treatment with a thorough duplex Doppler ultrasound examination. When CVI is indicated, we choose the treatment that will work best for the individual. All treatments – Radio Frequency Ablation; Laser Ablation, and Ambulatory Phlebectomy – are performed in-office, using local anesthesia. Ablative procedures shut down a diseased vein, rerouting blood to healthier veins. Procedures take less than an hour, and most patients drive themselves to and from procedures. Spider vein treatment – sclerotherapy – is quick, and virtually painless. In all cases we encourage patients to walk and resume “light” normal activity, and, depending on the patient and procedure, to avoid strenuous activity for a week or two. For appointments, free cosmetic ultrasound, or information, please call 678-731-9815.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

February 11, 2015 25

3 Natural Treatments for an Underactive Thyroid Brought to you by Dr. Sean Savedoff of Revolution Health There are some natural ways to support your thyroid, and ensure it functions optimally. You may want to find a doctor that practices functional medicine. A functional medical doctor can assist you with natural ways of treating the root cause of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms with medication. The thyroid is, after all, considered the “Master” in controlling your body’s metabolism. It needs to be treated with respect, so that you can feel better. Here are three natural treatments that you can do to support your thyroid: 1. Detoxify your liver Maybe you are asking yourself what your liver has to do with your thyroid. The answer is, “lots!” Your liver is a very important organ, as one of its roles is to filter blood and detoxify it as it passes through the liver. Therefore, it is the main detoxification organ in your body, as everything you consume (alcohol, medications, etc.) eventually makes its way through your liver. Your liver is also responsible for converting the T4 (Thyroxine) hormone into the more active T3 form.

2. Ensure you get enough iodine, BUT….. If you are including iodized salt in your diet, you are probably okay. HowSAVEDOFF ever, as many people try to cut back on their salt intake for other health reasons such as maintaining healthy blood pressures, they also reduce their intake of iodine. One BIG exception to the iodine rule: if you’ve been diagnosed with or think you may have Hashimoto’s (autoimmune hypothyroiditis), iodine may make you worse if there is a selenium deficiency. Selenium protects against the effects of iodine toxicity. If you increase iodine without checking for a selenium deficiency, you can not only create Hashimotos but make it worse if you have already been diagnosed with it. Make sure your doctor is testing for this before any iodine therapy is undertaken. 3. Eat certain foods that support your thyroid, and avoid or lessen consumption of others that do not.

As Hippocrates stated, “Let food be thy medicine...” Foods to include in your diet include: • Eggs • Grass-fed beef • Wild caught saltwater fish • Cultured or fermented dairy (cheese or yogurt) from grass-fed sources Avoid or lessen consumption of foods such as: Some foods are considered

“goitrogenic,” meaning they cause the thyroid to function more slowly, making hypothyroid symptoms worse. The foods that fall in this category include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and kale. Other foods that do not support your thyroid’s functioning include: • Peanuts • Corn • Almonds • Soy products (soy milk, soy

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26 February 11, 2015

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald

Alpha Family Medicine Are you having a hard time finding a primary care doctor? According to a recent report by the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, the state ranked 39th in the ratio of doctors per 100,000 population. The doctor shortage continues to limit patients’ access to care and is most critical in primary care. Some doctors have stopped taking new patients altogether. If you do find a doctor that will accept you as a new patient, you may still have to wait if you want to schedule a routine visit. If you are on Medicare or Medicaid you might not be able to find a doctor and may have to visit the emergency room. In which case, you will have to wait and may not see the same doctor again. There is a solution – the best time to find a new primary care doctor is when a new practice opens. You need to sign up early on, even if it’s for a routine physical. Most insurances pay for a physical once a year without requiring any co-pay. If you sign up early on, the doctor will be familiar with your medical history and it will be easier to get an appointment later on when you have a medical condition. You need to

sign up before the doctor stops accepting new patients! Fortunately, for residents of North Atlanta, signing up with an experienced primary care doctor just got easier with the opening of a new clinic in Alpharetta. Alpha Family Medicine is a primary care clinic that specializes in Family and Geriatric Medicine for all ages – children, adults and elders. The clinic is centrally located on North Main Street (Highway 9), close to City Hall. Currently, the clinic is accepting new patients. You can walk-in or schedule a same day appointment with the Doctor. Or if you cannot make it during office hours, you can

schedule an appointment for early mornings late evenings, or weekends. The clinic is operated by Shyla Reddy, MD and her medical staff. Dr. Reddy has more than 15 years of primary care experience in Family & Geriatric Medicine. She is board certified in Family and Geriatric Medicine. She taught/supervised medical students and resident doctors in an university setting. She also obtained a fellowship in Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology from Emory University. To sign up as a new patient or to schedule an appointment, contact 678-619-1974 or visit www.alphafammed.com

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Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

February 11, 2015 27

There’s an APP for that For your ears and your world Can you imagine being able to stream the sounds from your iPhones and iPads directly into hearing devices that NO ONE else can see? What if you could answer or make phone calls and clearly hear the person on the other end through both ears? The marvels of technology have made these scenarios possible to create a seamless connection to a world filled with sounds. More than 36 million Americans experience hearing challenges in various environments and situations - a frustrating disadvantage to those affected. Forget about what you think you know about hearing devices up to now. You will be AMAZED at how smart, how helpful, and how transforming better hearing can now be. “As an audiologist for almost 24 years, it is both exciting and overwhelming to stay on top of the latest advances in hearing technology. It is a very fulfilling time to be in a profession that is truly transforming people’s lives by connecting them to the world in a way that others take for granted” says Dr. Debo-

rah Woodward. “Another leap forward has been the very successful extended wear option.” These devices are invisible to others, worn 24/7 for months at a time, and have no batteries to change. If you have a mild to moderate hearing loss, this cutting edge option may be right for you. As the local community’s leading link to better hearing over the past 17 years, Dr. Deborah Woodward and her staff at the Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center have successfully led thousands of hearing challenged patients to a more enjoyable and fulfilling life. Dr. Woodward offers patients not only improved day to day communication, but also the solutions to those challenging listening environments such as restaurants, group meetings, phone communication, and yes, that age old argument between spouses on the “correct” loudness of the television volume. Countless devices and services are now being marketed to assist the hearing challenged but like fingerprints, no two ears are the same. Consulting with an audiologist is an absolute must. The “one model fits all” bought from a magazine or website has the

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potential to actually add MORE damage to your current hearing profile. If in need of help, you can rely on the expertise of a Doctor of Audiology and a Center with a proven TRUST record to help plan your personal and unique solution to “better” hearing. The Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center is known for their competitive pricing along with award winning service. They can also provide diagnostic testing for hearing disorders, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and ear wax management. All major insur-

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28 February 11, 2015

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

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February is Children’s Dental Health Month By Dr. Ushma Patel with Center for Advanced Dentistry In February, for over sixty years, dentists, parents, and children all across America observe National Children’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

Dr. Ushma Patel 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, and certainly

Children’s teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and a healthy smile is important to a child’s selfesteem. With proper care, a balanced diet and regular dental visits, their teeth can remain healthy and strong. 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! If you wish for any further information on any aspect of your child’s dental and oral health, please call us at 678894-7926 or visit us on the web at www.HiTechSmiles. com. We’d be happy to help in any way we can!

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Let nutrition fuel your training By Carrie Mueller, MS, RD, CDE Northside Hospital Diabetes and Nutrition Education Nothing starts my day better than a good run; and I’m not alone. About 19 million Americans share the label of recreational runner with me. We’re a community of like-minded enthusiasts, and sharing best practices is what a community does best. As a Registered Dietitian and longtime runner, I’ve learned several nutrition hacks along the way that will fuel your training for an upcoming race and get your best performance yet. Hydration is key for any runner in training, so drink lots of water. I typically don’t consume sports drinks during runs unless they are longer than an hour. However, they can be beneficial post run to re-hydrate and replenish lost electrolytes. While commercial sports drinks will work, you can try unsweetened coconut water as a natural source of potassium and magnesium, and add a quarter teaspoon of salt to replenish sodium stores. If muscle cramps are getting in your way, proper stretching and rest is important. Try adding a banana smoothie with a splash of milk as a delicious way to stay hydrated, and help restore

electrolyte imbalances. Other potassium rich foods you can include are oranges, potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and avocados. Feel free to enjoy a cup of coffee before your run. Caffeine has been linked to improved athletic performance, but it can also stimulate your digestive tract. Make sure you know its effect on you before trying something on race day. “When” we eat is just as important as “what” we eat. For longer training runs, include a carbohydrate replacement to keep your energy up. A refreshing way to get sugar while running is keeping a bag of frozen grapes handy. Within an hour of finishing your run, you need to refuel with a snack containing both carbohydrates and protein. Try eating half of a whole grain bagel with peanut butter or fruit with a half a cup of yogurt. Even 2 percent chocolate milk will work if eating is difficult after a run. You may not feel hungry, but it is important to consume something to start stabilizing blood sugar levels and aid in recovery. What works for one person may not be optimal for another, so learn what works best for you and avoid trying something new the day of the race. Good nutrition should be part of your ongoing training, not something you start in the days leading up to the big day.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

February 11, 2015 29

FAQ – Bladeless Cataract Surgery What is a cataract and what is cataract surgery? Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and today cataracts affect more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older. At some point in our life, we will all develop a cataract. The natural lens of the eye yellows and becomes cloudy with age as a result of biological changes of the proteins inside the lens. The function of the human lens is to focus incoming light onto the back of the eye. As your lens ages, light from the outside worlds becomes more and more distorted as it enters your eye. Difficulty reading, needing more light to read, experiencing glare and haloes at night and, even poor sleep patterns can be explained by cataract formation. The treatment for cataracts involves an almost painless, 10 minute surgery to remove the “clouded lens” or “cataract” and replace it with a man made intraocular lens implant. It is the most common surgical procedure in the US and around the world and is considered to be an extremely successful and safe procedure with a success rate approaching 99.5%. What is laser cataract surgery? With traditional cataract surgery, all the steps of the surgery are customarily performed “manually” by the surgeon using handheld tools. Laser cataract surgerythe next evolution of cataract surgery with the Ziemer Z6 laser generally offers a greater amount of precision, predictability and safety to these steps leading to potentially improve visual outcomes and more precise targets. With the Ziemer Z6 Laser System, your surgeon has the potential to offer you unmatched accuracy and a more predictable and customized cataract procedure. Based on your medical history and pre-operative evaluation, you and your surgeon will discuss the options available for your desired visual result. Together you can discuss a treatment plan which may include using the LDV Z6 to create the laser incisions in the cornea along with an advanced lens implant that may allow for improved near, intermediate or distance vision. This tailored treatment may reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery. How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery? In traditional cataract surgery, incisions in the cornea are made using handheld instruments including blades

to access the cataract. Your surgeon will then use a surgical device to manually create a circular opening in the lens capsule of the eye that holds the cataract. The Ziemer Z6 laser can be used to make the corneal incisions precise and the opening in the lens capsule as circular as possible, in the right location, and sized to fit the replacement lens. Your surgeon can also use the laser to break up and soften the hard cataract. Softening the lens with the laser enables your surgeon to then remove the cataract more gently and with significantly less ultrasound energy than is used in traditional manual cataract surgery. What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery? • A highly customized treatment • A treatment with little or no discomfort • A potentially more precise and predictable treatment • By and large, a gentler and easier cataract removal • Generally, a more rapid visual recovery due to reduced inflammation • The opportunity to receive tailored treatment with advanced technology multifocal lenses, which may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery Am I a suitable candidate for laser cataract surgery? Your surgeon and you will decide whether you are a suitable candidate based on your eye anatomy, type of cataract and type of lens implant that you desire. Most patients are candidates for having some of the steps of cataract surgery performed with the Ziemer Z6 laser. How long has the procedure been performed? Thousands of cataract procedures have been successfully performed using femtosecond laser systems, and femtosecond lasers have been used in eye procedures for decades. The most familiar use of femtosecond laser technology is LASIK. Femtosecond lasers represent an advanced standard in precision laser cataract surgery and the Ziemer Z6 platform was FDA cleared in 2013. What should I expect on the day of surgery? Your day in surgery should be no different than a routine cataract case. The Ziemer Z6 laser is positioned next to the surgeon and is utilized seamlessly during the cataract surgery process. You will be given mild IV sedation that will likely keep you pleasantly unaware

of the goings on in surgery. Not only is it potentially painless, there are no needles or stitches as part of the procedure. What should I expect after surgery? After surgery, you can generally expect your vision to be improved within 24 hours. Generally, patients experience no pain after surgery. Slight scratchiness of the eye is common and they prescribed eye drops will help with any of these symptoms. Many patients return to work or normal

activities the next day and even drive themselves to their postop day one appointment! How long does the procedure take? You can expect to be at our center for about 2 hours, and you will be in the procedure room for only 20-25 minutes. Please call 678-688-4575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on how to schedule your Cataract evaluation at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.

Is Seeing the Crossword Puzzle Harder than Solving It? Could be Cataracts.

Milan R. Patel, M.D. Niraj Desai, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Cataract & Refractive Surgeon Surgeon

Kiran Sajja, M.D. Oculoplastic Surgeon

Anjum Cheema, M.D. Glaucoma & Cataract Surgeon

We have the answer. Whatever the problem Milan Eye Center can help. We are excited to announce that we have been chosen to be the first practice in the United States to use the Ziemer Z6 2013 and 2014 Laser for bladeless laser cataract surgery.

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30 February 11, 2015

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

Diabetes linked to hearing loss Brought to you by North Fulton Ear Nose & Throat Associates A link exists between adults with type 2 diabetes and hearing loss. In diabetic people age 60 or older, high blood sugar causes tiny blood vessels in the inner ear to break, disrupting sound reception. Diabetes often results in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The link between CKD and hearing loss has been known for decades. The kidney and the Stria Vascularis of the cochlea share physiologic, ultrastructural and antigenic similarities and therefore, the link between diabetes and hearing loss may be indirect but does exist. It is recommended that diabetic patients have their hearing screened upon identification and then annually thereafter. The effects of untreated hearing loss include embarrassment, irritability, avoidance of or withdrawal from social activities and personal relationships and impaired memory. Auditory deprivation means “use it or lose it”! Although we detect sounds with our ears, our brain makes sense of the sounds. Over time, the brain’s ability to understand speech is often affected by hearing loss. Once the ability to understand is lost, it can be difficult to regain. Wearing hearing instruments can

Over time, the brain’s ability to understand speech is often affected by hearing loss. Once the ability to understand is lost, it can be difficult to regain. assist the brain in maintaining the ability to understand speech. A peer reviewed study conducted by the National Council on Aging provides evidence of the benefits of hearing aids, including improved overall health, better interpersonal relationships and a reduction in frustration, anxiety and depression. To learn more or schedule a consultation call North Fulton ENT in Roswell 770-343-8675 or Cumming 770-886-5821 www.NorthFultonENT. com

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Take control of your hearing and your life Hearing loss and balance disorders are not just age-related. Other medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, infection, and primary disorders of the ear can be the cause. If left untreated, people with hearing loss are up to five times more likely to suffer from dementia. Studies have shown that hearing amplification can drastically improve patients’ quality of life.

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Reducing your risk of stroke (NAPSI)—While strokes are a leading cause of death and disability in adults in the United States, there are ways to reduce your risk of having one. Sometimes called a “brain attack,” a stroke happens when blood flow is cut off to part of the brain, starving brain cells of oxygen. Within minutes, those cells begin to die, which can lead to permanent damage if not treated quickly. Reducing Your Risk Some of the common risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, smoking and a family history of strokes. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk of stroke (and other related diseases like heart attacks). Engage in a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, being physically active and quitting smoking. Also, take steps to keep your blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar under control by visiting your doctor or nurse. He or she can be a valuable resource for helping you improve your health and treating any conditions that might raise your risk for stroke. An Uncommon Risk Factor A less common risk factor for stroke is carotid artery stenosis, the narrowing of the arteries that run along the sides of the neck that carry blood from your heart to your brain. This condition affects only one half to 1 percent of the population and causes a relatively small percentage of strokes. You may be at increased risk of developing carotid artery stenosis if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or a history of heart disease. Older age and smoking are also risk factors. More Harm Than Good Screening for carotid artery stenosis is often done by listening to the neck with a stethoscope for unusual sounds from the arteries. Another method is to use ultrasound, a painless test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the arteries (similar to the ultrasound that pregnant women get to see the baby inside the womb). Health care professionals can look at the pictures to see whether the arteries are narrowed or blocked. Carotid artery stenosis screening, however, has little or no overall benefit for preventing stroke for most adults. In fact, this screening can be harmful because it often leads to a cascade of follow-up testing and surgeries that themselves can cause stroke, heart attack or death. Because the condition is rare, screening all adults would also lead to many false-positives (test results that say a person has a disease when he or she does not) and can lead to unnecessary surgeries. As a result, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against carotid artery stenosis screening for the general population. Work with your doctor or nurse to talk about any concerns you may have

about your risk for stroke and ask about ways that you can reduce your risk by exercising, eating well and managing any chronic diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Stroke Symptoms: Time to Act Even if you take steps to reduce your risk, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of stroke so you can act quickly and potentially avoid devastating consequences. These include: • Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg—especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination • Sudden severe headache with no known cause. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or in someone near you, call 911 and get immediate medical help. A stroke is an emergency and quick treatment can help prevent long-term brain damage or even death. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack, or TIA (a “ministroke”). If you have had TIA or a stroke, the Task Force recommendation on carotid artery stenosis screening does not apply to you. Your doctor can work with you to develop a plan based on your individual health to prevent a future stroke. Protecting Your Health The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine. The Task Force makes evidence-based recommendations on primary care services. Recently, the Task Force reviewed evidence on screening for carotid artery stenosis in the general adult population. For more information on the Task Force and to read the full report on carotid artery stenosis screening, visit www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

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February 24, 2015 Call your account executive or 770.442.3278 TODAY to reserve your spot

32 | February 11, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Forsyth County crowns spelling bee champ CUMMING, Ga. — Twenty-nine of Forsyth County Schools’ best spellers met at South Forsyth High School Jan. 31 to compete for the title of spelling bee champion 2015. The winner of each elementary and middle school spelling bee represented their respective school. After 28 rounds of competition, Varun Kumar from Vickery Creek Middle School

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was crowned the spelling bee champion after correctly spelling “subjunctive.” Monish Jampala from Daves Creek Elementary School was named first runner up. Tharini Ramakrishnan Kavitha from South Forsyth Middle School was given the second runner up honor. Varoon Kodithala from Sharon Elementary School was recognized as alternate. Kumar, Jampala and Kavitha will represent Forsyth County Feb. 28 at the District 2 spelling bee at Mabry Middle School.

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From left are the students who placed in the county spelling bee, Varoon Kodithala from Sharon Elementary School (alternate), Tharini Ramakrishnan Kavitha from South Forsyth Middle School (second runner up), Monish Jampala from Daves Creek Elementary School (first runner up) and Varun Kumar from Vickery Creek Middle School (winner).

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SPORTS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 33

Local wrestlers advance to area meets Competing for state berths this weekend By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. – Local high school wrestlers competed in area meets Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, with the top four finishers in each weight class advancing to sectionals, which are scheduled for this coming weekend. The top finishers from sectional meets will advance to the state champions meets in Macon Feb. 12 –14. The AAAAAA Area 6 meet was held at North Forsyth, with Chattahoochee advancing eight wrestlers to sectionals at Mill Creek in Gwinnett. Johns Creek advanced four wrestlers, Centennial three, Alpharetta two and Northview one. Area results for Chattahoochee’s wrestlers advancing to sectionals were (season records in parentheses): Jordan Pitt, 120, first (44-3); Sean

VARSITY BRIEFS Send us your news! Email to news@appenmediagroup.com More Info: 770-442-3278

Harding University SEARCY, Ark. – The following local students were included on the Dean’s List for the fall 2014

Hoffman, 195, first (33-3); Perry Benton, 285, first (26-13); Matt Picus, 152, second (39-10); Daniel Amram, 170, second (22-11); Carrington Hill, 182, second (26-4); Ethan Phillips, 113, third (40-7); Sam Latzsch, 220, third (21-13). Johns Creek: Michael Banks, 138, fourth (19-11); Nash Barney, 170, fourth (13-13); Jerome King, 195, fourth; Austin Otto, 182, fourth. Centennial: Nicholas Floyd, 138, second (20-3); Julio Urbina, 145, third, (1811); Jack Shields, 160, fourth (16-11). Alpharetta: Alex Rahm, 106, second (20-8); Julian Monroe, 145, fourth (24-11). Northview: Jack Kenyon, 220, second (23-2). Roswell qualified seven wrestlers from the AAAAAA Area 5 meet at Lassiter. The Hornets will also compete this weekend at Mill Creek. Roswell’s qualifiers were: Demarco Gatti, 160, first (34-3); Tylor Johnson, 195, first (18-4); Cole Anderson, 170, second (32-11); Cam-

semester at Harding University: Caroline Embry, Alpharetta; Katherine Embry, Alpharetta; Harrison Hunter, Alpharetta; Garrison Gerard, Suwanee; Kelly Batte, Cumming; and Madison Wickline, Roswell.

Brenau University GAINESVILLE, Ga. – Brenau

eron Whiteman, 285, second (12-2); Ryan Willis, 220, second (31-8); Robert Copenhaver, 182, third (30-9); Brian Slewitzke, 138, third (29-10). Cambridge qualified nine wrestlers from the AAAAA Area 7 meet at Cass, and will host sectionals this weekend. Cambridge’s qualifiers were: Sean Kaira, first, 220 (40-10); Devin Kane, 160, first (54-1); J.R. Salemi, 126, first (57-6); Trey Wolfe, 195, second (35-20); Will Britain, 145, third (48-7); Dawson Brooks, 106, third (2616); Brock Nielson, 170, third (31-11); Zack Cameron, 113, fourth (28-13); Nathan Kurtz, 138, fourth. Blessed Trinity qualified 11 wrestlers from the AAA Area 4 meet at Locust Grove. The Titans will compete in sectionals this weekend in Sonoraville. BT’s qualifiers were: James Hawkins, 285, first (213); Cameron Nolan, 195, first (22-5); James Humphrey, 113, second (9-3); Ian Spitler, 138, second (20-13); Joey Brinsmaid, 126, third (12-8); Ben Pierce, 152, third (16-10); Jon Ander-

University student Deirdre Kunze of Johns Creek is a member of the Gainesville Theatre Alliance Repertory Company for the 2014-2015 season. Kunze was the company manager and worked on marketing for “Shiver Me Timbers” and “Muse of Fire: Shakespeare on Tour.” Kunze is majoring in theater design

son, 160, fourth; Huiet Joseph, 220, fourth (19-9); Josh Likes, 182, fourth; Jacob Schoonover, 106, fourth; Caelan Tackitt, 145, fourth (14-7). St. Francis qualified 12 wrestlers from a Class A area meet at Commerce. The Knights will compete in sectionals this weekend at George Walton Academy in Monroe. The St. Francis qualifiers were: Seth Cecil, 285, second (18-10); Sam Franke, 220, second; Evan Robinson, 132, second (21-10); Ethan Sparks, 126, second (17-13); Stephen Agon, 182, third; Matthew Fezza, 145, third (21-9); John Franke, 160, third (20-16); Will Smith, 106, third (12-7); Josh Snyder, 152, third (25-11); Ben Ziegler, 138, third; Jack Kilpatrick, 120, fourth (1915); Chris Rech, 113, fourth. Fellowship Christian qualified one wrestler for sectionals – Nathan Shirley, 160, second (25-6). Mount Pisgah had three wrestlers qualify: Pierce Erhardt, 152, second (52-4); Connor Spence, 113, third (2525); Karlos Nadal, 106, fourth (43-16).

and technology.

Bob Jones University GREENVILLE, S.C. – Three local students were named to the President’s List for grades achieved during the fall 2014 semester at Bob Jones Univer-

sity: Lauren Foushee, Roswell, majoring in graphic design; Corey Turner, Alpharetta, majoring in accounting; and Kyle Turner, Alpharetta, majoring in accounting. To qualify for the President’s List, students must earn a grade point average of 3.75 or higher.

See VARSITY, Page 37

34 | February 11, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Trial: Continued from Page 1

KATHLEEN STURGEON

Cambridge, Forsyth Central and Lambert high schools were the top three to place in the regional mock trial.

Our Spring Collection Has Arrived!

Central and Lambert – won spots to compete in the regional mock trial. Cambridge was the ultimate winner against Forsyth Central. As region champs, Cambridge gets a bye in the first round at district, Banker said. The mock trial event was first initiated 27 years ago at Forsyth Central, said Kathy Vail, educational liaison for the event. “Since that time, Forsyth County Schools have successfully participated in the program, which was developed by the Younger Lawyers Division of the State Bar of Georgia to provide students with an operational understanding of the law, legal issues and the judicial process,” Vail said. Banker, who attended Forsyth Central, said the teams are given a letter to represent them so there is no possible bias against them. “We have attorneys who grew up here, so we try to create anonymity so we have fair scoring based on performance, not where they’re from,” Banker said. The schools chosen to compete are assigned by the state, but Banker said she always insists they include Forsyth’s five public high schools so they don’t have to travel. “Because of our space limitations, we can manage eight schools, so we have eight this year,” Banker said. “We try to find the schools most closely geographically associated to us.”

It’s a competitive event, Banker said, and the students involved are bright kids who get to utilize their competitive nature. “Some of these students will be athletes who compete on a sports field, but a lot will be the more academically oriented kids who may not compete through a sports field,” Banker said. “It gives them a really good opportunity to compete. Some of these kids will go on to law school and become lawyers, but a lot will not. But what they’ve just experienced is a requirement of them thinking on their feet. It’s really remarkable to watch them and see them putting on a trial.” Banker said there were over 72 attorneys who volunteered their time at the event and it impresses them to see how the students prepare. “When attorneys are preparing a case for trial, we don’t get three months to do that, but the students are able to pull this together in three months and be really impressive,” Banker said. “In addition to having that memorization and preparedness of designing a case to have it go forward, they also have to have that witty, quick thinking that we litigators have of thinking on their feet and being able to really quickly respond.” Besides the obvious benefits for the students, Banker said it helps the local legal community remember why they chose their career. “It’s a good reminder to us of the fun of this job and that it matters,” Banker said, “but it’s also really impressive to watch these kids do this.”

Cambridge’s team won the overall regional mock trial.

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Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 35 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Chestatee ES seeks musicians to share their talents FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The Mentor Me North Georgia Music and Mentors program at Chestatee Elementary School is seeking musicians to showcase their talents with Chestatee students. All musicians ages 14 and older are encouraged to join the program.

The club will meet at the school, 6945 Keith Bridge Road, on Fridays from 3-4 p.m. For more details, contact

Sylvia Cardona at 678-3418028 or email sylvia@mentormenorthga.org. – Joe Parker

1 S H 5,00 OW 0 s R O q ft OM

Cultivating the Desire to Learn

South Forsyth alumna wins science teacher award ATHENS, Ga. — Meganne Skinner, a teacher at Hilsman Middle School in Athens and a graduate of the University of Georgia’s College of Education, was named the 2015 Middle School Science Teacher of Promise by the Georgia Science Teachers Association. Skinner was honored at a special awards banquet Feb. 6 as part of the annual GSTA Science Conference in Macon. The annual awards program recognizes the beginnings of excellence in the teaching of science and commitment to its improvement. One winner from elementary, middle and high school categories is selected as a state winner. Skinner is a graduate of South Forsyth High School.

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COMMUNITY

36 | February 11, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

Lanier Tech instructor awarded FORSYTH, Ga. – Lanier Technical College instructor Christian Tetzlaff was named winner of the Rick Perkins Award of Excellence in Technical Instruction. Tetzlaff is the program director for motorsport vehicle technology. “Christian exemplifies the type of instructors we have here at Lanier Technical College,” said Lanier Tech President Dr. Ray Perren. “You don’t become the Technical College System College of the Year without outstanding faculty members.” Tetzlaff will now be a candidate to win the regional Rick Perkins Award. – Joe Parker

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Is Your Pet Trying To Tell You Something? Clean teeth and healthy gums are important to their health. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) & the American Veterinary DentalSociety (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 & mouth or depression. A few minutes with our doctors can help your four-legged family member lead a happier & healthier life. Call our clinic today to schedule your appointment!

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Library brings 21st century services to community CUMMING, Ga. — The Cumming chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America received an in-depth look at the modernization of local library services Feb. 2, thanks to a presentation by the Forsyth County Public Library. Program Manger Laura Bradley enlightened both frequent and occasional library users in the veterans’ organization about the wide-ranging free services from movies, music, audio books, e-books, language learning programs and magazines, which are available on several digitalbased platforms. Bradley said anyone with a library card can access these services without ever leaving the comfort of home. Hoopla Digital enables patrons to access feature-length movies, audio books and television programs. Flipster provides users access to over 40 magazines such as Time, People, Sports Illustrated and others. If interested in learning a language, Mango is available with online software providing help to speak one of the more than 60 languages currently available. Flipster and Hoopla automatically return from your device after a set period of time so unlike traditional books and materials, there is never a late fee.

Forsyth County Public Library Program Manager Laura Bradley spoke to the local veterans. The library system has a whole host of the traditional products and services one normally expects to find in a library. Bradley said the digital services are growing rapidly and called these “a wonderful resource.” The Cumming chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America meets the first Monday of each month at the Golden Corral restaurant on Marketplace Boulevard. Dinner is at 6 p.m. with the meeting beginning at 7 p.m. All Vietnam-era veterans are invited to attend.

Morgan to speak at West Forsyth on teens and the law CUMMING, Ga. — Author Tom Morgan will be speaking on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in the West Forsyth High School auditorium, 4155 Drew Road in Cumming. The free event is sponsored by the WFHS PTO. He will be speaking on his book “Ignorance is No Defense: A Teenager’s Guide to Georgia Law.” A former prosecutor and experienced trial lawyer, Morgan gives real-life examples and covers teenagers’ rights under the law. –Shannon Weaver

Forsyth County Tech Fair announces winners FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The 2015 Forsyth County Schools’ Technology Fair is now completed and the winners have been announced. The winners will go onto the 2015 State Fair March 7 in Macon. This year’s fair was held at Whitlow Elementary School, 3655 Castleberry Road, during the last weekend in Janu-

ary. Students were divided by grade-level divisions, which are grouped as grades 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10 and 11-12. This year’s competition saw the addition of a new category, digital audio production. For more information and to see a full list of winners, visit http://techfair.forsyth. k12.ga.us/. –Kathleen Sturgeon

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Issues: Continued from Page 8 closes at the end of June. Although we have a positive economic climate, I want to be sure that we allocate funds conservatively and effectively. This week, we have reconvened and are moving quickly through our legislative agenda. As a father of four children, all of which attend or graduated from Forsyth County Public Schools, ensuring children in Georgia receive a quality K-12 education is important to me. On Tuesday, Sen. William Ligon, from Brunswick, sponsored Senate Resolution 80. This resolution demands the redesign of the Advanced Placement United States History curriculum framework (APUSH), implemented in Georgia classrooms in fall 2014.

Varsity: Continued from Page 33

Piedmont College

Traditionally, APUSH curriculum was designed to present a balanced view of United States history. However, the current framework for APUSH, implemented by the College Board, immerses students in curriculum that highlights negative aspects of our nation’s history and minimizes the positive accomplishments Americans have made. In addition, the current APUSH framework differs drastically from Georgia Performance Standards for social studies. S.R. 80 will instruct the College Board to withdraw the current APUSH framework and reinstate the previous framework for the 2015-2016 academic year, or face penalties from the state of Georgia. This week, Speaker of the House David Ralston introduced a legislative plan to fund $1 billion to maintain our vast transportation infrastrucMartin of Alpharetta was named to the fall 2014 Dean’s List at the University of Rhode Island.

Furman University

DEMOREST, Ga. – Piedmont College celebrated over 135 new graduates in December, including the following local students: Avalla Cleveland, Duluth, master’s degree in early childhood education; Emily S. Clance, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in mass communications; Regan M. Schoch, Johns Creek, bachelor’s degree in psychology; Kristina Cabral, Suwanee, master’s degree in broadfield science education; and Richard Labocetta, Suwanee, master’s degree in broadfield science education.

GREENVILLE, S.C. – The following local students were included on the 2014 fall semester Dean’s List at Furman University: Mackenzie Curtis, Alpharetta, daughter of Maureen and Michael Curtis; Lauren Pinion, Alpharetta, daughter of Cheryl and Byron Pinion; Rachel Shah, Alpharetta, daughter of Mary and Gregory Shah; Alexandra Buchalski, Johns Creek, daughter of Celia and James Buchalski; and Kelly Dickson, Johns Creek, daughter of Jennifer and Ward Dickson.

Morehead State University

Phillips Exeter Academy

MOREHEAD, Ky. – Ryan Bennett of Alpharetta and Laine Simmons of Suwanee both made the fall 2014 Dean’s List at Morehead State University.

EXETER, N.H. – Seungmin Yoon of Suwanee achieved academic honors during the fall 2014 semester at the Phillips Exeter Academy.

DeSales University

Oklahoma City University

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. – Rebecca J. Ni of Duluth made the fall 2014 Dean’s List at DeSales University. Ni is currently majoring in medical studies.

University of Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – Eric Amikam and Jalila Elfejji, both of Johns Creek, have been named to the fall 2014 Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin. Both Amikam and Elfejji are majoring in engineering.

University of Rhode Island KINGSTON, R.I. – Carlie E.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Grace Lewis of Suwanee was named to the President’s Honor Roll for the 2014 fall semester at Oklahoma City University. Students must earn a GPA of 3.9 or higher to meet the President’s Honor Roll requirements.

University of Dayton DAYTON, Ohio – Colin Riley and Erin Riley of Roswell both made the 2014 Dean’s List for the fall semester at the University of Dayton.

ture. Their plan would convert Georgia’s combination of sales and excise taxes on fuel to a 29.2 cent per-gallon excise tax. When implemented, the package would create a new $200 annual fee for alternative fuel vehicles, with the exception of hybrids. Mass transit systems in Georgia would have access to a combined $100 million in bonds next year. The state of Georgia is growing in population each year. We are at a crossroads; we need to maintain and improve our road system, one of the most traveled systems in the nation, but we are lacking the necessary funding to do so. Without improvements and

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 11, 2015 | 37 expansions to our infrastructure, we will not be able to adequately provide safe travel for those relocating to and passing through and our state. Finally, I am excited to say that we unanimously passed our first piece of legislation this session. Senate Bill 1, a bill that will enable families to receive insurance coverage for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). We heard words of support from all over the state of Georgia, and passing this legislation truly is a victory for our state. I am happy to have supported it. I am honored that you have put your trust in me to represent District 27 in the Senate.

Please feel free to contact my office at any time to talk about pending legislation or address other concerns in our district – my door and phone lines are always open. Sen. Michael Williams represents Georgia’s 27th Senate district, which includes Forsyth County. He currently serves as majority deputy whip and as vice chairman of the Senate Ethics Committee. He is also a member of the Senate Finance, Public Safety, Higher Education and State and Local Government Operations committees. For more information, contact his Capitol office at 404- 6567127 or michael.williams@ senate.ga.gov.

DEATH NOTICES Ellamae Adam, 86, of Alpharetta, passed away January 22, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Linda Susan Anderson, 57, of Cumming, passed away February 1, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Jeanne Brown, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away January 22, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Bruno G. Canario, 90, of Suwanee, passed away January 27, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Chris Croft, 52, of Cumming, passed away January 27, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Marion Fairfax, 99, of Johns Creek, passed away January 31, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

William Hasslock, 75, of Roswell, passed away February 1, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Rosemary Hinman, 65, of Suwanee, passed away January 28, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

David Lamar Hyde, 62 of Dawsonville, passed away January 28, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. James J.J. Jinks, 54, of Cumming, passed away January 31, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Helen Keith, 74, of Cumming, passed away January 29, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. William Matthew Kleem, 12, of Cumming, passed away January 31, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Leonard Landry,65, of Cumming, passed away January 29, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Apryl Moring,46, of Suwanee, passed away January 25, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Gwendolyn Parker, 60, of Roswell, passed away January 20, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Hilda Rado, 88, of Gainesville, passed away January 25, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

William Strayhorn, 84, of Cumming, passed away January 27, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Suzanne Litke, 56, of Roswell, passed away January 20, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Evelyn Taccati, 59, of Suwanee, passed away January 25, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Alexander Lomeda, 43, of Alpharetta, passed away February 1, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Bruce Weatherly, 71, of Suwanee, passed away January 21, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Joan McDaniel, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away January 30, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Margaret J. Williams, 92, of Gainesville, passed away January 28, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Barbara Jeanne Yeoman, 76, of Cumming, passed away January 28, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Hiring Office Staff

The Mad Hatter Service Company in Alpharetta is hiring customer service representatives. Job duties include managing incoming calls, scheduling appointments, and doing basic administrative tasks. Must be familiar with QuickBooks and scheduling software. Must be dependable, friendly and have a positive attitude. 9:00am – 5:00pm M-F. Mad Hatter Services promotes a smoke free and drug free work environment. Please reply to this posting by submitting a cover letter and resume to info@madhatterservices.com.

Hiring Technicians, Stone Masons

Mad Hatter Services hiring air duct and chimney technicians, helpers and stone masons. We will train. Must be dependable, have a good driving record and a valid driver’s license. Mad Hatter Services promotes a smoke free work environment and conducts random drug screening on a continual basis. Potential Annual Earnings: $40,000+. Walk in applications are encouraged at 5220 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta, GA 30004. E-mail resumes toinfo@madhatterservices. com or call 770-740-8133.

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40 | February 11, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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