Forsyth Herald - March 2, 2017

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

Public safety puts on active shooter drill West Forsyth High School was taken over Feb. 21 for an active shooter drill. Over 100 public safety officers took part in the drill to learn techniques that could help in an emergency situation. Read more, Page 14.

Quick send in the clowns

Publisher Ray Appen says farewell to the circus ►►PAGE 8

Former Lambert teacher arrested

Charged with sexual assault ►►PAGE 2

Woodall ‘avoiding’ in-person town halls Constituents upset Rep. won’t talk in-person ►►PAGE 12

RaceTrac to get makeover

Changes will make store up-to-date ►►PAGE 15

Ecommerce business chooses Forsyth Major west coast business to bring 300 jobs ►►PAGE 16

Real Estate Report KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

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2 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

PUBLIC SAFETY

Former Lambert teacher charged with sexual assault 770-442-3278 | ForsythHerald.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS:

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A former Lambert High School teacher was recently charged with felony sexual assault after having a relationship with a student.

John David Ubriaco, 33 of Dawson

Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 118 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 139 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102

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Teacher reportedly had relationship with student

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.

Drug arrests ►► Jessica Ann Jackson, 26, of

Montrose Parkway, Peachtree Corners, was arrested February 4 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for possession of marijuana and failure to maintain lane. ►► Zachary Reed Strickland, 24, of Broken Lance Place, Alpharetta, was

arrested Feb. 13 on Peachtree Parkway in Cumming for possession of marijuana and expired tag. ►► Michael Anthony Morena, 24, of Dunroven Way, Dawsonville, was arrested Feb. 10 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for possession of marijuana and speeding.

DUI arrests ►► Niall Michael Collins, 25, of

Carriage Rowe, Duluth, was arrested Feb. 15 on Atlanta Road in Cumming for DUI and no headlights. ►► Dora Melissa Huff, 36, of Mars Hill

UBRIACO

Road, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 10 on Dahlonega Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Randy Ray Reidinger, 38, of Pointe Vecchio Circle, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 11 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jewell Leah Jones, 23, of Campus Point Circle, Gainesville, was arrested Feb. 11 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Ethan Rodney Nix, 25, of Cantrell Road, Dawsonville, was arrested Feb. 12 on Dahlonega Street in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

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POLICE BLOTTER 20,000 Circulation

County, was charged Feb. 24 with two counts of felony sexual assault, according to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. This came after he reportedly had a relationship with a 17-year-old female student.

He resigned from his job Feb. 21, a position he had held since August 2016, according to school officials. This was

his only job in Forsyth County Schools. The district did not comment further, citing the case as a personnel issue and a criminal investigation.

Ubriaco is being held at the Forsyth County Jail without bond.

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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.

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

Experimac robbed FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Experimac store on Marketplace Blvd. was burglarized Feb. 21.

Surveillance video shows two males entered the side of the business by throwing a rock through the glass. One of the males is then seen entering by kicking down a back door. Once inside, the male appears to take a white or silver tablet or computer monitor.

Both suspects then left the store after “unsuccessfully trying to take com-

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puters that are held in place by cables,” according to the police report.

The video shows a light colored, four-door sedan waiting outside the store during the burglary.

The Forsyth County Crime Scene Investigators responded to the robbery.

Thief steals 2 stationary bikes from gym FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. —A thief reportedly stole two stationary bikes from a local gym Feb. 10.

The manager of the LA Fitness at Lakeland Plaza said she was notified by a janitor that two indoor bicycles were missing. The total cost of the missing bikes is roughly $1,500.

Deputies didn’t notice any items left

behind by the suspect other than gouge marks from the wheels.

The manager said the employees use a numerical code to get into the store and it hadn’t been changed in a while.

Numerous current and former employees apparently knew the sequence.

The deputy went to the store next door to see if they had security footage.

The deputy saw on the video a dark sport utility vehicle parked behind the store that night. It was also seen leaving the parking lot about two hours later.

‘Suspicious man’ buries knives in neighborhood FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Deputies

See BLOTTER, Page 28

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Can patients with normal eye pressure still have glaucoma? (part 1)

By Dr. Cameron Johnson

The diagnosis of glaucoma can be straight forward when intraocular pressure is elevated, however, the diagnosis is more elusive in patients with statistically normal pressures.

Glaucoma is defined by a characteristic optic disc cupping with thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer and, as it becomes more advanced, a typical pattern of visual field loss. Most glauCameron Johnson, M.D. coma patients also have an elevated Cataract & Refractive eye pressure, defined as 22 mmHg or Surgeon higher. However, up to 1/3 of patients with glaucoma can have normal eye pressures. In these patients, certain elements of the history and examination can help differentiate Normal Tension Glaucoma (NTG) from other entities.

Testing that could be useful includes an ANA looking for autoimmune disorders, a CBC with platelets to evaluate for anemia and blood dyscrasias that could contribute to optic nerve ischemia, and a VDRL as syphilis can mimic NTG. It is also important to recognize the signs that could warrant neuroimaging to look for a compressive lesion of the optic nerve. These include age under 50, rapid progression, optic disc pallor out of proportion to the amount of cupping, decreased visual acuity relative to the amount of cupping and visual field loss, decreased color vision, visual field defects respecting the vertical midline, and marked asymmetry of the nerves.

Once NTG has been diagnosed, the treatment is the same as for POAG, lowering the pressure. The Collaborative NTG Study showed that a 30% reduction of intraocular pressure decreased the rate of progression of NTG from 35% to 12%. Once this reduction is achieved, visits are scheduled every 3-4 months to measure intraocular pressure and look for progression. Risk factors for progression include migraines, disc hemorrhages, and female sex. If patients continue to progress after a 30% reduction in pressure, treatments can include further reducing IOP, adjusting nocturnal hypertensive medications to avoid a potential night time drop in blood pressure causing decreased optic nerve perfusion, calcium channel blockers in patients with vasospastic symptoms, and a sleep study to rule out sleep apnea. Generally, patients with IOP of 12 and a normal corneal thickness should not progress, and if they do, it is advisable to reevaluate for other causes of visual field loss.

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Gravitt says he will decide political future this spring

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Although the office of Cumming Mayor H. Ford Gravitt said the mayor would make an announcement Feb. 21 on a bid for reelection, he is staying quiet for now.

“I have a health issue and I’m going to have surgery in the middle of March,” Gravitt said. “Before I make any announcements I’m going to wait until I get through with my surgery and get some doctor’s advice.”

He said the decision is up in the air for now.

“I have contemplated on not running because of health reasons,” he said. “But since I do have surgery, I want to wait to make an official an-

nouncement.”

At a Feb. 2 Board of Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said the county would have to “work with a new mayor” next year while developing the county’s future taxes.

Mills confirmed after the meeting that she was told by Gravitt that he would not be seeking reelection due to personal reasons.

When asked, Gravitt’s office said he would be making an official statement on the topic at the city’s Feb. 21 council meeting.

Gravitt was first elected mayor in 1970, taking office in January 1971. He also served from 1967-1970 on the City Council.

In the midst of this year’s political uncertainty, Cumming resident Troy Brumbalow announced his candidacy for mayor Jan. 31.

“I want to use my business and government experience to lead my hometown of Cumming as its next

mayor,” Brumbalow said in a statement.

“I have been honored and humbled by the outpouring of support I have already received.

Over the next several months leading up to the election in November I look forward GRAVITT to working hard and earning the votes of the good people who live in Cumming.”

Brumbalow is a graduate of South Forsyth High School and owns several businesses in Cumming.

“I love my hometown and want to leverage my skills, knowledge and experience to build upon the successes of the past while moving Cumming forward,” he said. “This is the basis of my campaign’s motto, ‘Respect the Past while Moving Forward.’ I want Cumming to be a place where people want to grow their businesses and raise their families.”

Commissioners discuss shining light on zoning processes Group discusses zoning activity, zoning workshops

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recently looked into ways it can shine more light on how zoning decisions are made.

The board is considering updating

the way zoning issues are presented for consideration. County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the board could consider having meetings with the Planning Commission as part of a six-month trial, and the county will decide what to do from there.

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bly prior to board workshops.

“Everybody is hearing the same thing,” Jarrard said. “Perhaps there won’t be any back and forth from the Board of Commissioners to the Planning Commission. Interested citizens will then be allowed to look behind the veil and see where a lot of these negotiations go on.”

Commissioner Laura Semanson said she’s never felt comfortable with the way the zoning meetings have been carried out.

“The impression was we were meeting with developers of projects specifically identified in our districts,” she said.

Some may think this is a way to circumvent the Open Meetings Act, Semanson said.

“They may think this is where the deals are being made in the back room,” Semanson said. “This is just to open that up. Not that we won’t still have a discussion, but they won’t take each commissioner one-by-one and sell what they have going on in the county.

This will be a comprehensive ability for the commissioners to lay it all out.”

The board also discussed zoning numbers from 2016 and the first few weeks of 2017.

Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said it’s important to dispense data to the public.

“It’s also important for (the board)

See ZONING, Page 28

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 5

NEWS

6 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

County considers tax abatement policy Board will move forward with steering committee

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is in the hunt for high-income, low-impact commercial growth. To that end, the Board of Commissioners decided at its Feb.21 meeting to form a steering committee to explore its policies relating to economic incentives, including tax abatements.

The board expects to hear recommendations within the next 30 to 60 days.

Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce President James McCoy said the chamber, along with the county and the county development authority want to increase the commercial tax base.

“This reduces the burden on residential taxpayers and risks,” he said.

“It brings more high-income, low-impact employers to Forsyth County. It’s within the county ordinances and has many benefits to the citizens of Forsyth County.”

Key success factors for the project include an even more proactive private-public partnership involving the

county, development authority, chamber and state, he said.

The development authority would be a financing mechanism limited to tax abatement, according to chamber Chairman David Seago.

Development authorities in Georgia develop land for business parks, set up industrial revenue bonds and initiate infrastructure upgrades and improvements, he said. The Forsyth Development Authority would have an annual budget of $40,000 and would use the revenue from bonds for title tax abatements.

McCoy said the county needs to take steps to draw business. Those steps need to be defined, tracked and reported, he said. The improved plan is set for presentation this month to an executive session.

“Currently there’s an unsustainable gap,” McCoy said. “The average homeowner pays $1,441.07 in property taxes annually. The average homeowner costs $2,904.16 in services annually. There’s a $1,463.09 gap per household.”

The chamber also gave an analysis of Forsyth facts.

A breakdown of residents and where

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they work showed 48,096 employees commuting to the county and 66,251 residents commuting out of the county.

There are roughly 21,674 employees that live and work in the county.

The Forsyth County tax digest from 2005 to 2015 showed in 2005, 81 percent of property taxes were residential, while 18 percent was commercial. In 2015, commercial rose to 27 percent of the total tax digest, while residential accounted for 72 percent.

Robert Long, vice president for Economic Development at the chamber, said the county received $148.4 million in new capital investment and 828 new jobs last year.

“In 2016, the chamber self-generated 92 percent of our 79 projects,” Long said. “These can be from the company contacting us directly, to a site selection consultant or realtor contacting us. We have to vet these leads to see if there is really a project before we log them in.”

Other leads were generated by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber and Georgia Power, he said.

“In 2016, 63 percent of our 79 projects were attraction versus expansion or retention,” Long said. “Attraction

The average homeowner pays $1,441.07 in property taxes annually. The average homeowner costs $2,904.16 in services annually.

There’s a $1,463.09 gap per household.”

JAMES MCCOY Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce President means that this project would be new to Forsyth County. This would include a project relocating from somewhere else in Georgia. Attraction, however, made up only 37 percent of our announcements last year. Thus, attraction makes up a larger percentage of the pipeline, but is harder to win.”

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OPINION

Goodbye to the clowns My 2-year-old granddaughter, Phoebe, sat on my lap and for a couple hours, smiled, clapped, stared, wiggled and ate goldfish.

Every couple of minutes my wife, Christina, who sat next to us, would cut her eyes over to Phoebe and just grin and watch with wonder. She didn’t need to say a word to express how she felt that day or RAY APPEN how precious the shared time with Publisher ray@appenmediagroup.com this child was for both of us.

We reveled in the moment surrounded by moms and dads and their kids and not once was heard a single word of admonition or rancor.

The adults I think – for at least a few moments – must had forgotten that they were grownups, and whether they realized it or not, were transported back to a place from a long time ago – a place perhaps long forgotten and a time that was simple, carefree, and safe.

If ever there was a time machine I am sure we were in it and moving at past the speed of imagination.

There was not a cell phone in sight. No one was texting. All eyes were forward, not down. Smiles plastered so many faces, young and old. The moment – the moments were infectious and Fitzerald’s definition of well written fiction – a “willing suspension of disbelief” – was front and center playing out on stage right before our eyes.

It was a bittersweet moment for me, and always will be until the end. And in this case, there was plenty of that to go around – both for everyone in the audience as well as for the performers on stage.

For years and years Christina and I would buy a large block of tickets – sometimes a hundred tickets or more – and we would take our friends, the moms, dads, and all the kids, and travel in one great big group down to the show under “the big top.” We would go early, and kids would be able to go mingle with the performers on the same center stages that a short time later would be filled with magic and animals, and flying performers and music and wonder.

The smell, the electric excitement that seemed to permeate the air, the barkers, bright colors, grins,

squeals, and hungry mouths devouring that food – the popcorn, cold colored snow cones, and of course the cloud-in-cones cotton candy, each child’s wonder, every adults memories – all before the show had even begun.

But it always began well before it started and always will.

“Isn’t it rich?

Are we a pair?

Me here, at last, on the ground You in mid-air” The memories of George Harvey – my neighbor when I was growing up on the river in Florida – always return. His family were orange growers in central Florida back in the ‘20s, and I still order bags of wonderful Florida navels from his grandchildren who still run the family business and send them to my sisters and a few lifelong friends for Christmas.

George would round up what seemed like dozens of children – “river rats” – and pile us all into a van and take us to see the greatest show on earth which was held at the fairgrounds in West Cocoa. I still remember almost all of them. Some are dead now. Some have moved and left my radar. Some are still close.

George would take out a roll of bills and give each one of us $10. Then he would take out a huge cigar, light it, and together all of us would visit booth after booth, and the air would fill with laughter and fun until it was time for the show to start. Then we’d go inside.

And George, just FYI, it’s you that all our friends who came with Christina and I all the years can thank. I hope you have been pleased.

With her little fists full of goldfish and her mind racing, Phoebe Leigh asked question after question and made comments about each act as they performed in the center ring. Then, abruptly, she became completely silent and still, as mute and silent as a frozen lake in the wild or wild flowers growing on the side of a mountain, miles from humanity.

One by one, the big cats left the train of cages lined up to the raised curtain of wire that circled the center stage. Out they came to the call of the balding man who owned the space, and he called each one out by name.

“Come Sonya, come Gretchen, come, come, come – until 13 magnificent tigers had entered the ring and

My granddaughter Phoebe and I say goodbye to the the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. colored the imagination of all the humans in the great tent with orangeness, black, albino white, swishing tails and growls, and nervous jerks of their great heads and feigned obedience as they paraded for us all.

And I was sad as I watched the clowns and the trapeze performers and the tiger tamer, and the acrobats and the tight rope walkers, and the dancers and the guys who rolled out the stages and broke them down.

I couldn’t imagine how they felt when they had been told that after 143 years that their beloved circus – the greatest show on earth – Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus would be closing for good in May. No more circus. Ever.

Then as I watched their show I began to realize that they were not giving up or giving in. Their trapeze flew higher than ever. Their songs filled the air with heart. They marched, they swung, their animals performed with amazing grace. Their smiles and their effort to say goodbye the right way – with pride, dignity, but above all, to not disappoint us – the ones whose memories and childhoods and imaginations are forever tied to their show – stole the night and honored their legacy and filled our hearts.

“I thought that you’d want what I want Sorry, my dear But where are the clowns?

There ought to be clowns Quick send in the clowns” They ought to be here.

A media professional’s take on ‘fake news’ The story of the week in PR and media circles is this issue of “fake news.” I’m not going to get too deep into that here. But I do feel it important to emphasize, as so many others have MITCH LEFF done this week, the Atlanta Media Professional leffsatlantamedia.com importance of a free press.

This little passage is the First Amendment to the Constitution. Not the second. Not the 15th. The first. Our founders considered this so important that they set it before all others.

“Congress shall make no law re-

specting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

There are few things more important than a free, vigorous, unfettered press with the full rights, abilities and resources to scrutinize our government officials and to ask the important questions.

Sometimes those questions are minor (“Can you explain why you, Mr. City Official, expensed your lunch on Tuesday?”). But our media must have the right to ask any question they desire. Sometimes we the viewer or

reader might consider them petty, but the fact that our elected officials know that someone is watching their every move will (hopefully) keep them on the straight and narrow.

Never trust an elected official who questions the right of any anyone, reporter, farmer, construction worker, doctor or mechanic, to ask them questions. If they’re ducking their constituents, they don’t deserve the position to which WE elected them.

Not every reporter is perfect. Not every media outlet is fair and balanced in every story or segment. Be a smart consumer of information. Don’t get your news from one media source.

Listen to stations that challenge your preconception. Watch the BBC or CNN

International. You might learn something or gain a new perspective.

Remember, elected officials work for us. They are beholden to US. We put them there and we’ll put someone else there in two years or four if we don’t like what we see.

Mitch Leff is the president of Leff & Associates Public Relations (www. leffassociates.com), an Atlanta-based PR agency. Leff also operates Leff’s Atlanta Media (http://www.leffsatlantamedia. com) an online database with contact info for thousands of Atlanta-based journalists, and Mitch’s Media Match (Mitch’s Media Match), a service that connects Atlanta journalists with local experts and sources.

OPINION

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 9

Learning life lessons from a Band-Aid I recently completed one of the most uncomfortable tasks I’ve ever had to do in my life.

Now, for someone who could be considered vain, it might have been KATHLEEN STURGEON considered a difficult burden. To Editor kathleen@appenmediagroup.com those who don’t really care about their appearance, sure, it was a minor annoyance at most.

But for me, it was a rough, long, awkward week.

I had minor outpatient surgery on my face last week, which I am thankful wasn’t too big of a deal.

If you saw or talked with me, you probably noticed or I probably told you about it before you could ask.

While this was a routine procedure that dermatologists do on a daily basis, for me it was a lesson in how to be comfortable in your own skin, literally.

For several days after the surgery I was tasked with wearing a massive, white bandage on my cheek to cover the stitches I received. It looked like I just had my wisdom teeth removed.

I made sure to wear my sunglasses everywhere and when people stared, I would smile lopsidedly and tell them one of the various excuses I made up.

Those included: shark attack, bar fight and zombie biting my cheek off.

But most of their responses surprised me. The majority of those I told responded they had something similar done and empathized with the anxiety of having a massive bandage on the face.

A few days later, I was able to downsize the giant bandage and replace it with a much smaller, flesh colored Band-Aid. Of course it was less noticeable, but I still had something on my face that didn’t belong and felt very awkward.

Again, I would notify people prior to talking to me why I had this covering my face, and still their responses surprised me. Most would say, “If you didn’t say anything, I wouldn’t have noticed!”

And while I appreciate their kindness at trying to not embarrass me more, I can’t say I truly believe them.

Trust me, it’s noticeable. I had to look at my face all week. It’s hard to not see it, except maybe at night or in a dim room. I became a pro at positioning

I became a pro at positioning myself so the “good” side of my face was closest to whomever I was speaking to. myself so the “good” side of my face was closest to whomever I was speaking to.

But no matter if those around me were staring, making jokes or could honestly see my facial conundrum, I realized, of course right before I was to get my stitches out that this was all in my head.

While I thought I looked like a giant hole had been punched in my face or a massive spider was dangling from my cheek, others just saw a bandage and probably thought, “She must have been hurt or had a procedure done.” And that’s true, I did.

And why is that so bad that I was taking care of my skin and health?

I never really thought I was one of

those people who are vain about their appearance, but now I realize why I was so worried.

As a society we value how we look so much and focus incessantly on our outer appearance.

Of course when I interviewed people, sat in staff meetings or went to the store, people may have glanced or possibly even asked what happened, but, for the most part, they didn’t act any differently toward me.

We build up beauty so much that when a crack forms in the external facade, whether a wrinkle, zit or bandage on the face, we crumble. It doesn’t change who we are, our value or intelligence.

But it does change how we see our self-worth. And that’s just sad.

This mini self-esteem test was a wakeup call of sorts for me. I realized I am the product of my society in that I do value beauty and outward appearances probably more than I should.

And while I wouldn’t want to walk around with a bandage on my face again, for the sheer fact it was quite irritating, I did learn something about myself and my community.

Who would’ve thought you could learn life lessons from a Band-Aid?

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10 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Teen mom support group celebrates seventh anniversary

ACT1 THEATER PRESENTS ACT1 Theater presents Robert Harling’s

March 3rd to March 19th Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm Sundays at 2pm “Steel Magnolias” tells the story of six women who bond together in Truvy’s Beauty Salon in the distinctly Southern town of Chinquapin, Louisiana. Outspoken Truvy dispenses hairspray and advice with abandon to her favorite clients while sometimes shocking her new assistant, Annelle. Rich curmudgeon Ouiser, eccentric millionaire Clairee, and town social leader M’Lynn, the mother of Shelby, all give as good as they get with hilarious and sometimes acerbic repartee.

On this day, Shelby will be married in a wedding palette of Blush and Bashful, the soft pinks of the magnolias blooming outside Truvy’s window. Despite the laughter of the day, soon the band of Southern ladies will need to become as strong and enduring as the magnolia tree which bears the delicate blossoms.

Stee Steel Magnolias is presented by spec special arrangement with Dra Dramatists Play Service, New York Tic Tickets at: ACT1Theater.com or 770-663-8989 AC b i Ch ACT1 Theater inside Alpharetta Presbyterian Churchh 18 180 Academy Street • Alpharetta, GA 30009

CUMMING, Ga. — January was the seven-year mark since Creekside United Methodist Church hosted its first Teen Mothers of Preschoolers meeting, and more than 100 young mothers and their children have benefited from what this ministry offers.

The mission of this group is to provide a loving, non-judgmental, supportive environment while nurturing young moms in their relationship with Christ and helping them build self-confidence in their roles as women and as mothers.

Teen MOPS meets every Wednesday night from 5:30-8 p.m. at Creekside UMC, where the teen moms and adult mentors fellowship together over dinner, devotions and activities. Meals and childcare are provided at no cost. Any mother or expecting mother, 21-yearsold or younger, is welcome to join.

“I never felt like I fit in anywhere, and when I got pregnant I felt completely alone,” said one former member of Teen MOPS. “My mom encouraged me to go to this group one night, and then I kept going by choice. I had finally found my place. Here was a group of women who knew what it was like, a group of girls my age who had been through what I had. And it was an amazing feeling knowing I would always have someone to turn to. If you are a teen mom, at least go try it out. It might just be what you need.”

Teen MOPS provides young moms with the ability to earn points they can use to “shop” for clothing, diapers and household items they need for their children. Creekside UMC, Creekside

... Here was a group of women who knew what it was like, a group of girls my age who had been through what I had. And it was an amazing feeling knowing I would always have someone to turn to ...”

Former member of Teen MOPS Christian Academy, the MOPS ministry at Creekside, and even outside community groups donate baby and children’s clothes and necessities to stock the “MOPS shop” and generously support this ministry throughout the year.

The group also earns a portion of the proceeds from the Creekside MOPS semi-annual children’s consignment sale fundraiser. The group meets in Forsyth County but welcomes members from surrounding counties such as Dawson, Cherokee, Hall, Gwinnett and North Fulton.

For more information about Teen MOPS, contact teenmops@creekside.net or visit creekside.net.

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Phyllis Giller – playing Clairee

Photos by Mike Glatzer Photography

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12 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Woodall’s constituents upset at lack of in-person town halls Emotions sparked while Congressman visits Lambert

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Not long after Rep. Rob Woodall visited Lambert High School Feb. 23 to talk to students about government, many of his constituents were left wondering why he won’t hold in-person town halls with them.

Woodall, whose district covers portions of Forsyth and Gwinnett counties, has been holding telephone town halls.

A check of his Facebook page shows many constituents are not pleased with his chosen forum and would prefer a face-to-face talk. Virtually every entry the congressman posts, someone responds with a request for an in-person town hall meeting.

One of those voters, Angela Sullivan Johnson, said if the congressman has time to visit the school, then he could make time for an in-person town hall.

“There are some very important issues facing our nation, including immigration, tax, education and healthcare reform,” she said. “It is more important now than ever to engage in-person with your constituents, not just who voted for you, to show them their voices are being heard.”

However, Woodall’s camp doesn’t see an issue.

“We’re always looking to utilize the most effective ways to serve the district as a whole, and that varies with lots of scheduling factors,” said Martin Wattenbarger, Woodall’s communications director. “In recent years, that

has included more in-person town hall meetings than any other member of Congress from Georgia – and more than roughly 94 percent of all members in the entire House since 2013.”

While his constituents wonder why Woodall won’t talk to them in person, he said he tries to get into high schools as often as he can because it is where “the next generation of America’s leaders live,” with Lambert at the top of the list across the county.

He told the students that change in the nation doesn’t start in D.C., but in communities such as Forsyth County and Lambert. He also said to hold each other accountable if they want to stop racism or other types of bigotry.

Often, when he talks in public, Woodall said he sees angry voters. With this group of students, they don’t care about being angry, but making a difference in each other’s lives, he said.

“If we were having a town hall meeting here, someone from the right would be mad and would have a speech they’d want to give, and same for the left,” Woodall said. “They may not want to fix anything, but they want to express their anger. In this group, with these questions, we saw folks who just want to fix stuff. They see problems in their communities, country and world and they just want to be a part of making it better.”

He said he gives different messages to different groups of people but still tries to stay true to his positions.

“But it is authenticity that young people crave. They’ll see right through you if you’re sharing one message here and another somewhere else,” Woodall said. “We’re absolutely trying to talk about the same themes here as we would at a Rotary Club.”

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Rep. Rob Woodall talks to students at Lambert High School.

The county is “blessed to have so much talent around” with the students, he said.

“It makes me a more effective leader in Washington, D.C. to tell the story of people back home, not (those) who are complaining to one another and blaming one another,” Woodall said. “But instead, it’s about folks who are working together to make a difference in the community. There’s a reason folks keep coming on into Forsyth County.

We have a wonderful community and it was on full display this morning.”

Woodall isn’t the only elected official being criticized for a lack of in-person meetings. Across the nation, constituents are speaking out and asking for meetings.

State Sen. John Albers, whose district covers a portion of north Fulton County, was recently chastised when he rescheduled an in-person town hall,

opting instead to host a Facebook live video.

Albers said he was planning to host an in-person town hall with state Sen. Brandon Beach Feb. 18, but they “got their signals crossed” with the Fulton County GOP which was having a meeting at the same time.

Potential protest demonstrations have no connection to the cancelation, Albers said.

“I do hope that people will genuinely want to be a part of the solution and come forward with ideas,” Albers said.

“Just protesting for protesting sake accomplishes nothing. People in general in society these days often times are quick to constantly be negative and criticize. They want to talk about problems but not actually be creative in solutions.”

Beach said they were now working to set up an in-person event later.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 13

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COMMUNITY

Hundreds of public safety personnel attended the active shooter drill at West Forsyth High School.

PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Forsyth public safety holds active shooter drill West Forsyth High plays host

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Driving past West Forsyth High School Feb. 21 might have caused some alarm for onlookers.

Almost 200 role players, including more than 100 first responders, took part in a countywide active shooter training at the school, including: • Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office • Forsyth County E911 Center • Forsyth County Fire Department • Forsyth County Board of Education • School Safety Officers • Emergency Medical Services, or Central Ambulance Services • Parents and students • Community Emergency Response Team • Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Explorer’s • Life Flight Sheriff Ron Freeman said this event was a full-scale, mock scenario of an active shooting situation.

“Realistically this is how we get better. This is how we learn,” Freeman said. “We continually train for this, but if you never put it in practice you don’t know where you’re missing something.”

The drill identified areas the officers

An ambulance sits outside the school. can improve on, which Freeman said is a good thing. It will lead to better training by all departments.

“I wish we were 100 percent perfect, but like any team knows, there will always be areas to improve,” he said.

“And that’s what we will do. The command staff and I are evaluating it.”

The event included two simulated shooters, which Freeman said the deputies took down within five minutes of the first emergency call made. Additionally, there were multiple fake casualties. It took about six months for the entire drill to come together, including ensuring the agencies are still able to protect citizens in the county while the

event was staged.

“There’s a lot of manpower that comes out,” Freeman said. “And yes, it costs a lot of money, but I can’t think of anything better we can do with taxpayer money than make sure we are prepared to keep our kids safe.”

All involved had no idea what they were heading into, just like a real event.

“A huge part was figuring out how we get these people out fast, treat them, secure the building and deal with, realistically, thousands of parents showing up here,” Freeman said. “Our high schools on average have 2,500 to 3,000 students. There are a lot of moving parts here.”

One of the actors playing a parent was Alex Kucera, whose real-life daughter Jamie Riley, a senior at West Forsyth, also took part in the drill.

He said he was proud of his daughter for getting involved because he knows how important it is to be prepared.

“In today’s society it’s needed,” Kucera said. “Unfortunately, with dwindling morals, ethics and grounded people, there are people who are unstable. We need to protect the vulnerable, including our kids.”

A school environment is very vulnerable, he said, and seems to be a target for people who might be looking for trouble.

“Any way we can protect them and be prepared to protect them across all emergency services takes a huge effort,” Kucera said. “It was amazing to see how it all came together.”

This was nothing new to the sheriff’s office which has staged these types of events for years, most recently in 2014 at South Forsyth High School.

Additionally, all the deputies have completed Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response training, which is a new active shooter preparation from the FBI and Department of Justice.

“You hope tactics change,” Freeman said. “We study what’s happened in past school shootings, as horrible as that is. We know there are trends and we adapt our tactics to those trends.

We learn how to do it faster and better and keep more people safe.”

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 15

RaceTrac on Ga. 20 to get makeover Update will make gas station more modern

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Drivers who use the busy RaceTrac off Ga. 20, or Buford Highway, can expect a new look soon.

The Cumming City Council approved a rezoning Feb. 21, with Christopher Light abstaining, that will allow the store to annex an adjoining property and upgrade its building off Marketplace Boulevard.

Attorney Emory Lipscomb said the business bought the adjacent property, which currently houses a car wash. The combined property will be 1.74 acres.

“RaceTrac will be changing its configuration so it will be running along Ga. Highway 20,” Lipscomb said. “The store will be running parallel to the road.”

A more modern sign will be installed, and the catwalk with the gas prices will also become more contemporary.

Scott Morgan with the Cumming

PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

The RaceTrac off Ga. 20 will soon be getting a makeover. The catwalk sign will become more modern.

Planning and Zoning Department said the applicant wanted to rezone the

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In 2016, our average project invested around $5 million and produced 30 jobs.

ROBERT LONG, Forsyth Chamber 16 | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017

Major economic development project moves to Forsyth Sports Warehouse to create more than 300 jobs

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Sports Warehouse, a global retail supplier of sports and outdoor equipment, will soon call Forsyth County home.

The project will create more than 300 jobs and invest more than $14 million into an East Coast e-commerce fulfillment and distribution center in Forsyth County.

The 117,000 -square foot- facility at 1295 Bluegrass Lakes Parkway off McFarland Parkway is expected to be operational by July 2017.

Sports Warehouse is the parent company of Tennis Warehouse, Running Warehouse, Tackle Warehouse, Skate Warehouse, Inline Warehouse, Ice Warehouse, Derby Warehouse, Riding Warehouse, Art’s Cyclery, Racquetball Warehouse and Total Pickleball.

All of the companies are headquartered in San Luis Obispo, Calif. Both Tennis Warehouse and Running Warehouse have an international presence in Germany and Australia.

Sports Warehouse President Drew Munster said the company is looking forward to expanding its Tennis Warehouse and Running Warehouse distribution to the “active sports community.”

“Both tennis and running participation are thriving in Atlanta, and the ALTA and the Atlanta Track Club are two of the premier community sports

organizations in the United States,” Munster said.

The group is planning to improve customers’ ordering experience, Munster said.

The new distribution center will enable Sports Warehouse to offer faster shipping and more convenient service hours to customers in the South, Midwest and East Coast.

The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has courted the project since September when they were contacted by a Realtor, and when the metro Atlanta area was named as a finalist earlier this year.

Munster said the project had options in other states and locations, but Robert Long with the Chamber sold them on Forsyth.

“Forsyth County is the finalist because of our quality of life, nationally recognized schools and existing e-commerce companies,” Long said in January.

Chairman of the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, Todd Levent said Sports Warehouse is a great fit for the county.

“This is thanks to the tireless efforts and forward-thinking nature of county leaders, engaged citizens and a strong community. Forsyth County has the outstanding quality of life and public education system that will assist them in attracting executives and technical professionals to make this project a huge success,” Levent said.

Sports Warehouse is the parent company of other businesses like Running Warehouse in Calif.

The existing building has been used as storage since its purchase in 2002, producing 12 jobs.

If the company buys the property, it will invest $15 million at a minimum and will employ 342 people over four years with an average compensation and benefits of $39,517 a year, Long said. Of those jobs, 24 will exceed $78,000 a year.

The expected annual payroll is $13.5 million.

“In 2016, our average project invested around $5 million and produced 30 jobs,” Long said. “This project is atypical. It will produce three times the investment and 10 times the number of jobs. It has been more than five years since Forsyth County has seen a project with this level of employment.”

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 17

Chamblee emerging with new development, ‘eclectic vibe’ Smart phone apps If you have been in Atlanta for a while, the mention of Chamblee may very well not do much for you. But it will soon.

The city, which sits just inside the Perimeter in GEOFF SMITH the southwestern Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com corner of its intersection with I-85, is seeing more than $360 million-worth of private-investment projects underway. Following those projects are the city’s efforts to build a new Town Center and a Rail Trail, which, like Alpharetta’s newly proposed Alpha Loop, would be a bike trail weaving through all of this.

I find Chamblee interesting for a couple of reasons. One is that its origins have a direct connection to my home town of Roswell.

The city started as a railroad junction with one of the rail lines connecting the area to Roswell, and, according to the city’s website, it was first called Roswell Junction. The city eventually took on the name Chamblee.

The city saw a small boon when Camp Gordon opened during World War I, and then again when it reopened as a Navy flight training center during World War II. After the war, the city really got going with residential and retail construction that housed and serviced workers at the newly built GM Plant.

Frito-Lay, Kodak and General Electric built plants along Peachtree Industrial, and the area took on the industrial look that is being transformed today.

More recently, the area has received national acclaim for the restaurants sitting along a stretch of Buford Highway that runs from Chamblee about seven miles north past I-285. A writer for Bon Appetit called this area a “United Nations

More recently the area has received national acclaim for the restaurants sitting along a stretch of Buford Highway that runs from Chamblee about 7 miles north past 285. of restaurants,” teaming with authentic Korean, Vietnamese, Chinese and Mexican food. Even the king of restaurant cool, Anthony Bourdain, made a stop there in an episode he filmed in Atlanta. This has given the area a big bank of cool points and serious street-cred.

Another asset is the redevelopment of the nearby GM Plant. The $2 billion project will include more than 10 million square feet of office towers, apartments, stores and restaurants.

Many of Chamblee’s very affordable homes will likely house people working at, or wanting to be near, this massive new development.

I met a new friend at a BBQ restaurant in Chamblee a couple of weeks ago and was impressed to see a slurry of fresh, new developments. If you talk to city leaders, it appears they are not trying to be something like Buckhead, or even Brookhaven, directly to the

south.

According to a great article on Chamblee in the Atlanta Business Chronicle, they are happy to play off of their ‘gritty’ industrial past and are creating a “different and more eclectic vibe … extremely diverse” with a “small-town feel,” according to one developer quoted in that article.

Several new projects are underway around the Chamblee MARTA station, including a development called Peachtree Station, which is an 11-acre development that will include the Whole Foods Market and several restaurants including Taqueria del Sol, YEAH! Burger, Starbucks and Chipotle. The development is already 100 percent leased.

Another is called Parkview on Peachtree which is scheduled to open this year with 40,000 square feet of street-front boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, and 14,000 square feet of loft office space and 503 multi-family units. The four-story development is across the street from the MARTA station and sits along the proposed Rail Trail.

With all this new development in the works, the city’s development authority spent $5.5 million to buy about five acres along Peachtree Road creating its own town center.

They are looking to develop a town green surrounded by mixed-use development and a parking deck.

Requests for proposals have already gone out.

Chamblee is becoming a very cool and affordable ITP city that is a short drive, or quick MARTA ride, to downtown Atlanta.

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

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18 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

Investment guru makes bullish 2017 investment predictions Morgan Stanley hosts Bob Doll at Olde Blind Dog

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Bob Doll, senior portfolio manager and chief equity strategist at Nuveen Asset Management and manager of the Large Cap Equity Series, predicted a bull market for the start of 2017 that is likely to continue throughout the year.

Doll was in Milton as the guest of Morgan Stanley Financial speaking Feb. 22 at The Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub to a small gathering of investors.

They were there to hear his forecast for 2017. Often seen on CNBC, Bloomberg TV and Fox Business News discussing the economy and markets, Doll is an investment author also writes weekly commentaries about the market and investing and provides timely observations on where the market is going.

Doll is rated among the top 1 percent of money managers.

Getting down to business, Doll said he liked where the economy is going and the stock market.

“Stocks always beat bonds in the long run. They have had a good run the last few years, but they’ve had their day.”

Trump riding rising economic tide Doll noted President Trump has ushered in a stock market that is at a

record high. But it had been building right along, Doll said.

With Trump’s election, optimism surrounding the Trump agenda is high with investors expecting tax reform, increased infrastructure and DOLL military spending and a rollback of regulations.

The downside for Trump and the economy is that optimism for his agenda will begin to fail after the first six months as his agenda begins to hit some bumps and the blush is off the rose.

“While we believe fundamental change is on the way, it may not be as easy as it appears. In particular, such comprehensive legislation is rarely simply crafted and passed without significant revision,” Doll said.

“Secondly, most of his agenda is likely to be passed in 2017, but won’t take effect until 2018. And the market’s mood may sour if Trump’s protectionist rhetoric – largely absent from post-election proceedings – resurfaces,” Doll said.

While predicting the economy is never easy, Doll likes much of what he sees for U.S. and the global economies.

The aging business cycle, rising interest rates, climbing dollar and continued slow productivity growth all create formidable headwinds, he said.

On the other side of the balance sheet, the recent election has “unleashed” a significant increase in consumer and business confidence. “We

Appen announces promotions ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Appen Media Group has announced staff changes for its Alpharetta-based news operation.

Julia Grochowski is now covering the City of Roswell. This is in addition to her previous responsibilities of editing and managing the calendar, North Fulton crime and social media.

She has been with Appen since the spring of 2016. She graduated from the University of Georgia in 2015 with dual degrees in English and history.

“Despite growing up here, I hadn’t realized how much was going on in my own backyard until I started working with Appen,” Grochowski said. “I’m constantly learning about new businesses, communities, initiatives and organizations in the city that I can’t wait to share with the readers.”

Joe Parker has been covering sports for Appen since the fall of 2015. His new role includes expanded sports coverage in addition to covering the City of Milton. He graduated from Georgia State University with a degree in journalism.

“Sports have always been a great passion of mine,” Parker said. “To have my work concentrate on sports is a duty I take with pride.”

GROCHOWSKI

PARKER

forecast another relatively modest year of growth in 2017, somewhere around 2 percent real GDP growth.

“We also expect the dollar to exhibit further strength and reach parity with the euro sometime in 2017,” he said.

In addition, 2016 was a strong year for jobs growth with new jobs averaging 185,000 a month. This year, jobs growth should be nearly as strong and remain above 150,000 in 2017.

The current 4.6 percent unemployment rate could drop further next year to below the 4.4 percent rate reached in May 2007.

Meanwhile, average hourly earnings growth bottomed at below 2 percent two years ago and could exceed the 3.1 percent level they hit in June 2009.

Bull market peaks by mid-year Looking at the overall picture, the bull market should peak mid-year. The post-election “enthusiasm” has buoyed the stock market. Possibly more important, the market surge has also been driven by improving economic indicators since October.

“While we expect pro-growth [legislative] measures to be passed in 2017, we see two caveats.

“First, passing them will not be as easy as the current euphoria suggests.

And they are unlikely to take effect until January 1, 2018.

“Couple this with a slow but likely increase in inflation, and we think a tug of war between rising earnings expectations and eventual valuation (P/E multiple) deterioration will suppress equity prices.”

As a result, Doll says the 2017 high

in stock prices may come in the first half of the year.

The sectors Doll wants to be in are the financials, health care and information technology sectors. They will outperform energy, utilities and materials.

“Financials have been the leader since the election and should benefit from regulatory easing in 2017. Financials also feature cheap valuations.

“Health care presents a good opportunity beyond headline risks, and information technology offers both good growth and value characteristics.

Conversely, Doll says he continues to believe global growth will not provide the pricing power necessary for energy and materials to shine.

Nationalism, protectionism could prove vexing One the most difficult and worrisome areas on the horizon is the continued rise of nationalist and protectionist trends as pro-domestic policies are pursued globally.

“The 2016 global political environment was marked by a rejection of establishment policies and a rise in nationalism, protectionism and isolationism,” he said.

The Brexit vote, the Trump election and the Italian referendum all symbolize this shift and point to a world in which many countries are withdrawing from the global economy.

“In general, we believe more globalization and more trade are healthy for global GDP growth, so moves in the opposite direction are troublesome,” Doll said. “This issue won’t be decided in one calendar year, but should be monitored carefully.”

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHT Waxing the City opens in Alpharetta Business name: Waxing the City Owner: Bobbigail Simpson About: Waxing the City is a national wax-only franchise offering hair removal services. They are known for their specialized wax formulations used for a wide variety of hair removal services. Using a wax-only removal approach, the technicians at Waxing the City assist both men and women with unwanted hair in areas such as the face, back, underarms, bikini area and more.

Opened: Dec. 19, 2016 Address: 5250 Windward Parkway, Suite 114, Alpharetta, Ga. 30004 Phone: 470-275-5400 Website: studios.waxingthecity. com/alpharetta-ga

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 19

KEEPING ONE EYE OPEN Blackbox is a product of the Alpharetta, GA based company, Appen Media Group. Created in 2017, it acts as the investigative journalism arm of the multi-media company, producing award winning journalism through print and social media, podcasts, and film.

Through Blackbox, we will focus on corruption, crime, lies and abuse of power happening in your backyard.

Submit your tips at blackboxdocs.com

20 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

CALENDAR

LIBRARY EVENTS: TOASTMASTERS SPEECH COMPETITIONS

PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Get an individual or family photo with the bunny of the hour. This is a free event includes both a printed and emailed photo to take home. Light refreshments will be served. No reservations required.

Photo opportunities will be available Saturday, March 4 from 10 a.m.-noon at the Alpharetta Welcome Center, 178 South Main St., Alpharetta. For more information, visit awesomealpharetta. com.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

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

EVENTS: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

What: Learn how to help support Habitat for Humanity-North Central Georgia as they provide affordable housing to families in the community.

Take the first steps to becoming a volunteer at this information session.

When: Saturday, March 4, 10:30 a.m.

Where: 11060 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell More info and registration: mrobeck@ habitat.org or 770-415-1636

HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL AND PAINT COLLECTION

What: Online registration and the printed confirmation is required to bring materials to the event. There is no charge to Milton residents. View a full list of accepted materials online.

When: Saturday, March 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Cambridge High School, 2845 Bethany Bend, Milton More info and registration: cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2509

JOHNS CREEK RESTAURANT WEEK

What: Sample 23 of Johns Creek’s finest restaurants and culinary concepts with food specials for one week only. There is a free JCRW app to see all participating restaurants and their specials.

When: March 5-11, times vary Where: Throughout Johns Creek More info: johnscreekadvantage.org

NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION BANQUET

What: Join for the 19th annual banquet, with silent and live auctions.

There will also be wildlife art displays, raffles, food and door prizes.

When: Wednesday, March 8, 6 p.m.

Where: Forsyth Convention Center, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming Cost: $65 for adults, $25 for children, packages available More info: nwtf.org or 770-654-7548

IMMIGRATION CHANGES SEMINAR

What: Immigration Attorneys Joseph Rosen ad Jacky Clements will host a seminar and answer questions, in English and Spanish, on the recent changes to immigration policy, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.

When: Wednesday, March 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: North Fulton Community Charities, 11270 Elkins Road, Roswell More info: nfcchelp.org

FREE TAX PREP

What: Get free tax preparation assistance by trained volunteers. See website for full list of documents to bring. Walk-ins welcome Fridays and Saturdays. Appointments available.

When: Through April 17, times vary Where: NFCC Education Center, 1125 Elkins Road, Roswell More info and registration: nfcchelp.org or vita@nfcchelp.org

FREE AARP TAX HELP

What: Trained helpers are offering free tax services in multiple AARP Tax-Aide centers throughout tax season.

When: Times vary Where: Multiple locations throughout Metro Atlanta More info and locations: aarp.org

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: “STEEL MAGNOLIAS”

What: Act 1 Theater presents the celebrated Southern classic of family and friendship, following the story of a group of strong and beautiful women as they encounter tragedy.

When: March 3-19, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Theater, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta More info and tickets: act1theater. com

A NIGHT AT THE OPERA

What: Join the JCSO as they present their official 10th Anniversary Concert Celebration, featuring the Johns Creek Chorale, a quartet of guest soloists and radio host John Lemely.

When: Saturday, March 4, 8 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $32 More info and tickets: johnscreeksymphony.org or 678-7485802

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION

What: Join Chloe Agnew, an original former member of music group Celtic Women, as she celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with original Celtic music.

When: Saturday, March 4, 3 and 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: $30 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

THREE ARTISTS’ SHOW

What: See the art of Natalia D’Aries, Virginia Poorbaugh and Julia Wooley, who have all worked on the tutelage of the Roswell Visual Arts Center’s Kip Rogers.

When: Through March 3, times vary Where: Roswell Visual Arts Center, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com or 770-6413705

What: Enjoy an afternoon of inspiring speeches as the five Cumming Area Toastmasters Clubs host an Open House and two Speech Competitions.

The winner may make it to the Toastmasters International Speech Contest.

When: Saturday, March 4, 3-5 p.m.

Where: Forsyth County Library, 585 Dahlonega St., Cumming

STORYTELLING WITH BABATUNDE

What: Join us as African “Freestyle” Storyteller, Babatunde (Jason Louder) presents stories based on a young boy named Kweku and characters found in traditional African tales.

When: Monday, March 6, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org

LASER BLAZERS

What: In this workshop, Big Thinkers will do a number of different laser themed experiments and will end with their very own Big Thinkers Laser Show.

When: Monday, March 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

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

START THAT NONPROFIT

What: Join Foundation Center of Atlanta’s Stephen Sherman for a series of informative workshops. This month’s workshop is on developing a foundation for proposal budgets.

When: Monday, March 6, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

“I, TOO, AM AMERICA”

What: View original works at “I, Too, Am America,” a multimedia exhibition by local artists exploring the experience of being black in America.

When: Through March 3, time vary Where: Johns Creek Art Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekarts.org

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

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

REPTILES PROGRAM

What: Students, ages 4-10, will get the opportunity to meet reptiles native to Georgia and a few from around the world. They will also learn about the classification of species. Registration required.

When: Wednesday, March 8, 3:30-4:15 p.m.

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

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS TRAINING

What: Learn how to grow a business by using Mergent Intellect. This resource includes market research, industry reports, consumer lifestyle, demographic information and creating mailing lists.

When: Wednesday, March 8, 4:30-6 p.m.

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

MAKING SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS

What: Learn how to make a concrete plan for transitioning into a new career or lifestyle change. This session with certified life-coach Sonia Tank will explore how to achieve goals and recover from life’s curve balls.

When: Wednesday, March 8, 10 a.m.

Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info and registration: 770-3608820 or afpls.org

PET ADOPTIONS:

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

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

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

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

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: FREE TAX PREP SERVICES

What: Get free tax assistance, counseling and preparation. No appointment is necessary. Bring all relevant tax forms, last year’s return, a photo ID, Social Security card and checkbook.

When: Through April 18, times vary Where: Gwinett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 700, Busbee Center, Lawrenceville More info: aarp.org

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA:

Step into spring … on a Wildflower Hike Here’s a question for you: If April showers bring May flowers, then what to May flowers bring?

The answer, of course, is “pilgrims.”

Come on, admit STEVE HUDSON it. That made you Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net smile!

April showers really do bring May flowers, but here in Georgia we don’t have to wait till May. March and April are great wildflower months, too – and to help you experience the season, several of Georgia’s state parks will be offering guided wildflower hikes in the weeks to come.

Most state park wildflower hikes last about two hours. They vary in difficulty from level to moderately strenuous, so there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you.

What should you bring on your wildflower hike? Comfortable hiking shoes, of course, and a bottle of water.

Don’t forget your camera. A walking stick can also be helpful – and at least one hike recommends bug spray as well.

Here’s a look at several upcoming state park wildflower hike opportunities.

SWEETWATER CREEK STATE PARK (LITHIA SPRINGS)

Saturday, March 4, (2 - 4 p.m.); Sunday, March 5, (4 - 6 p.m.); Sunday, March 26, (3:30 - 5:30 p.m.); Sunday, April 2, (1 - 3 p.m.)

Located just west of Atlanta, Sweetwater Creek State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year, but during wildflower season it’s especially enjoyable. This moderately strenuous two-mile hike takes you through beautiful wildflower habitats. Early favorite varieties typically seen are Hepatica, Bloodroot, Wild Geranium, Wild Iris, Sorrel, and Green and Gold. Visitors may see up to 30 flower species. Meet in the Interpretive Center, wear good hiking shoes and bring water. $5 plus $5 parking. Info at 770-732-5876.

CLOUDLAND CANYON STATE PARK (TRENTON)

Wednesday, March 15, (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, March 18, (10 a.m. 12 p.m.); Monday, March 20, (10 a.m.

- 12 p.m.); Saturday, March 25, (2 - 4 p.m.); Sunday, March 26, (2 - 4 p.m.)

Tuesday, March 28, (2 - 4 p.m.); Monday, April 3, (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Wednesday, April 5, (2 - 4 p.m.); Friday,

PHOTO COURTESY GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Dogwoods at Cloudland Canyon overlook in Trenton.

April 7, (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, April 8, (2 - 4 p.m.); Wednesday, April 12, (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, April 15, (2 - 4 p.m.); Wednesday, April 19, (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)

More wildflower adventure awaits you in the northwest corner of the state at Cloudland Canyon State Park, where a one-mile hike through Sitton’s Gulch (along a flat riverside trail) brings you face to face with an abundance of blooming wildflowers in the park’s limestone-rich soil. Using a checklist and identification books to identify and record many of the species in bloom. This hike is for ages 10 and older. Reservations required, and a wildflower identification book is available for pre-order. $5 parking fee.

Info at 706-913-7170

PANOLA MOUNTAIN STATE PARK (STOCKBRIDGE)

Saturday, March 4, 2017 (1 p.m. - 4 p.m.); Sunday, March 12, 2017 (9 a.m.

- 12 p.m.); Sunday, March 26, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, April 1, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, April 15, 2017 (1 p.m. - 4 p.m.); Sunday, April 23, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, April 29, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Sunday, May 7, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Saturday, May 13, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Sunday, May 21, 2017 (9 a.m.

- 12 p.m.); Saturday, May 27, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Sunday, May 28, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.); Monday, May 29, 2017 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.)

Have you ever wondered why Panola Mountain is a restricted area?

Find out on a guided hike for a look at the granite mountain’s ecology and a rare opportunity to see how outcrop plants scrape out a living in such a

harsh environment. You’ll look for Diamorpha, Carolina Jessamine, Atamasco Lily and Trout Lily, depending on the date. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water. Register in advance.

This moderately strenuous hike is for ages 10 and older. $5 plus $5 parking.

Info at 770-389-7801

SEMINOLE STATE PARK (DONALSONVILLE)

Saturday, May 13, (11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

Celebrate mothers and the return of spring on this special Mother’s Day Wildflower Hike. This short hike showcases some of the beautiful wildflowers in the park’s wetland ecosystem.

Bring water – and bug spray. Closetoed shoes are recommended but not required. Meet at the Park office 30 minutes before the hike and drive to the trail. $5 plus $5 parking. Info at 229-861-3137.

Learn more about these and other upcoming Georgia State Park events at GeorgiaStateParks.org/events.

Want to try a do-it-yourself wildflower hike close to home? Great opportunities await you along the trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Learn about hiking in CRNRA in Steve Hudson’s book “Hiking The Hooch.” It’s available on Amazon, from local outfitters, or at www. chattahoochee media.com.

22 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

22 | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017

Sponsored Section

Flood insurance: Does your excuse hold water?

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“Flood insurance won’t provide me with the coverage I need anyway.”

It is true that the NFIP limits coverage of a single residence to $250,000 for the structure and another $100,000 for contents to the home, but they aren’t the only source for coverage.

Excess flood coverage can also be purchased above the $250,000 limit.

“I’ll just wait until it rains.”

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 23

Why investing in real estate is easier than ever (NAPSI)—There is no shortage of reasons why investing in residential real estate can be a good idea: home prices declined during the recent financial crisis, the number of renters has skyrocketed, it’s often considered a stable alternative to the stock market and the list goes on and on.

At the same time, residential real estate investing has shifted from a local proposition to one without geographic limitations. That’s because of developments in technology, financing, services and processes that can make it easier for investors to search for opportunities, purchase properties and manage them from afar.

In the past, a long-standing issue with the single-family rental sector has been a weak debt market. Investors were generally limited to loans from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, which allow a maximum of four and 10 properties, respectively.

Even worse was that these loans are highly dependent on the personal income of the borrower, not the income of the real estate. This limited obtaining attractive financing to only the wealthiest of investors.

A new lending sector has emerged, however, that can provide financing for

investors of various sizes and neither limits the number of properties available for financing nor underwrites the loan amount based on personal income.

Meanwhile, online auction marketplaces, property management software and crowdfunding may help to make more efficient decision—making and investing.

“Small investors today don’t have to rely on gut feelings about markets-they’re empowered by high-quality market intelligence and have access to a multitude of service providers,” explains Wally Charnoff, CEO of Investability Real Estate, Inc. “Small investors can now diversify their portfolio,” he says, “because they can research, acquire, finance and manage properties from afar.” The single-family residential market can present opportunities for “mom and pop” investors, particularly those who consider five key points: 1. Understand the total costs: Operating expenses and fixed costs, such as taxes, can vary greatly from state to state. Property management fees are generally higher in less populated areas that have little scalability or no competition. Hurricane, flood or earthquake insurance can be expensive

but may not be relevant in all markets.

“Investors often look for turnkey properties, which can make condos appealing, but monthly association fees can severely suppress yield and additional assessments could put the property in the red at a moment’s notice,” points out Dennis Cisterna, CRO of Investability Real Estate, Inc. 2. Choose your tenants wisely: If you decide to invest out of your local market (and even in your own market), consider using a property manager to identify and qualify tenants and detail exactly the criteria and standards required.

Common metrics are a certain FICO score, no bankruptcy in the last few years and a minimum rent-to-income ratio. Landlord references are also important, as is understanding local laws about tenant selection and advertising for tenants.

3. Know the market as if you lived there: Talk to local brokers, read the local newspaper to understand the economy and visit the area. Identify the drivers behind the housing market and know the history.

A healthy, educated workforce and population growth are generally good

indicators of long-term price appreciation.

Lower home ownership rates may produce strong yields as there could be a consistent demand for your investment property, but appreciation may be lacking as the market fundamentals are not dynamic enough.

4. Choose either appreciation or yield or a little of both: Deciding which type of market you want to invest in will help with focus.

Diversifying can be a reason to look beyond local opportunities. Some markets straddle yield and appreciation, and researching the long-term trend for market dynamics is especially important as these may quickly shift to only yield or appreciation.

5. Know your exit strategy: The number of owner-occupied houses is important because a higher rate of home ownership may make it easier to sell the home. The overall liquidity of the market is also important.

Data now exists that can help investors understand the vibrancy of a market even without much buying and selling.

Find your next single-family real estate investment at www.investability. com.

24 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Selling your home in wintry weather Brought to you by: Laura Wedell Harry Norman Realtors Do you have azaleas in the front yard that are absolutely beautiful during the spring, or a maple out back that turns magnificent colors in October?

Let’s include photos from every season WEDELL in your home’s listing and highlight each season’s best features.

Tailor your listing description for wintertime. Play up the amenities that are desirable during the winter: an attached garage, a new water heater or HVAC, and skylights, for example.

Don’t ignore market trends during the winter. Work with your professional REALTOR® to ensure you’re not overpricing. Fewer homes are on the market, and a properly priced home can lead to multiple offers, which can increase the price you get for your home. An overpriced home can sit for months on the market, which is not something you want when springtime approaches and your competition spikes.

Play up the amenities that are desirable during the winter: an attached garage, a new water heater or HVAC, and skylights, for example.

Remember, potential buyers have battled the elements to arrive at your winter open house.

Make sure your driveway, walkways, and front porch are clear and attractive, and the heat is on in your home. Set out an attractive doormat so they can wipe their feet before entry--this attention to detail will show how much you care, which potential buyers appreciate.

I’d love to work with you contact me today for a consultation, Laura Wedell 470-585-6126 LauraMarie.

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1664 Market Place Blvd., Cumming, GA 30041 Karen Pate, SVP & Broker. HarryNorman.com

Easy curb appeal

One of the easiest but often overlooked enhancement to a house to improve the curb appeal is to add or update your exterior shutters. Historically exterior shutters served a purpose by offering light control, ventilation and protection from the elements. Today exterior shutters are mostly decorative.

“Exterior shutters add the finishing touch to a house”, says Hennie DuPreez, CEO of Dupbel Millworks Inc. “But it is important that they are appropriately sized and look like they are supposed to be there.”

Whether you’re adding or replacing shutters to add curb appeal or as part of a remodel, consider these tips from Dupbel Millworks Inc., one of the leading shutter manufacturers in North Georgia.

Style: Make sure the style adds visual interest to the house, whether you choose traditional Raised panels, a Board and Batten style, Louvers or one of the more modern styles. Depending on the style you can make your house look more traditional, contemporary or modern. A reputable shutter provider will be able to help you choose the look you are trying to achieve.

Size: One of the biggest mistakes people make with shutters is the size. It is important that the shutters are sized correctly for your windows, while taking into account the features of the house, obstacles that could be present, and the look you are trying to achieve. Your shutters are going to be mostly decorative, but make sure they are sized as if they would be functional and as if they belong there.

Hardware: Traditionally shutters were attached to the window frames with hinges. Today hardware plays an important role in the appearance of your shutters. Various options are available depending on the style of the shutters and the type of windows. Adding hardware adds to the curb appeal and the authentic look. It also put the shutter at a slight angle, adding visual interest and creating better shadow lines that brings out the design features of the shutter style.

Material: Exterior shutters are available in various material and you need to find the right balance between price, how long they will last and the look you are trying to achieve. Vinyl shutters are typically the cheapest option for obvious reasons, wood looks great but do not necessary withstand the elements, and then you have various composite materials that could provide you with the authentic look and long lasting criteria.

Installation: Make sure you are confident working on a ladder, or make

sure you use a professional crew with the necessary insurance. The installation cost is typically in addition to the price of the shutters and hardware.

Ensure there is a suitable mounting surface and that the window frames are in good shape before installation.

Dupbel Millworks Inc. manufactures exteriors shutters using only weather resistant materials. Our core business is shutters made from a composite wood material that is rot, insect and weather resistant. This is especially important in Georgia’s hot, humid conditions. Although we carry a series of shutters styles, we are fully equipped to help you design the specific look you desire, and every shutters is custom made based on your house, windows and design.

We use your house as our showroom, knowing very well how difficult it can be to see what a specific style of shutter will do the look of your home.

We come to your house with samples and will help you to choose the perfect style of shutter for your house.

Our business is located in Alpharetta, GA and we are proud to serve the residential and commercial market of North Georgia. We are small enough to provide you with personal attention, yet strong enough to handle complex designs and the volume from our commercial customers.

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 25

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26 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services raises $89,387 for United Way NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Crye-Leike Real Estate Services, the nation’s sixth largest residential real estate brokerage firm, concluded its 2016 United Way Workplace Campaign by raising a total of $ 89,387 companywide to support United Way agencies located in 29 counties in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee.

Since becoming a partner with United Way in 1995, Crye-Leike, its sales associates and corporate staff companywide have contributed in excess of $800,000.

“Our company’s partnership with United Way is a perfect philanthropic fit for our real estate company. By giving to United Way, Crye-Leike is investing in the communities we serve,” says Joyce E. Friedman, affiliate broker and vice president of corporate communications of Crye-Leike Real Estate Services who served as co-chair of Crye-Leike’s 2016 United Way Workplace Campaign.

“We know that United Way’s board members and other volunteers safeguard the monies raised with a stringent process for prioritizing needs, evaluating agencies and their programs and distributing funds to those agencies most deserving and in need,” says

Friedman. “Their diligence produces results and allows United Way to make a positive impact on our neighbors like supporting people in crisis, enriching seniors’ lives, strengthening families, promoting health and independence and helping youth succeed.”

Second only to the federal government, United Way is the largest provider of funding for health and human services in the nation.

Crye-Leike (www.crye-leike.com), a full service real estate company for 40 years, is the nation’s sixth largest residential real estate brokerage firm and the largest serving Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and the Mid-South.

It has a network of over 3,100 sales associates in 126 company-owned and franchise offices located throughout a nine-state Mid-South region in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, Oklahoma, Alabama, and Missouri

Put it in the paper! Your Engagement, Wedding, Anniversary, Birth, or Graduation!

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

How much does it cost to sell your home?

Brought to you by – Bill Rawlings Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty When selling your home, it is always a good idea to consider all of the costs that are associated with this process.

When using a listing agent to sell your home the sales commission is typically around 6% of the sales price. That being said, home sellers will sometimes consider the option of selling their home of their own. Here are a few things to consider when making this decision.

Many homeowners do not understand what the agent’s 6% commission fee covers. It is very important to understand this fee, as it is what makes the home selling process easier and safer for you.

The commission does not simply go directly to the agent at closing, this is a fee that is split between the buyer’s agent, brokerage (real estate company) and the seller’s agent. The amount of the split that goes to a brokerage can vary based on the brokerage and transaction. This fee contributes to paying the agent for all of the time they spend with you, showing your home, preparing your home for the market and then, marketing your home to potential homebuyers. Marketing costs alone include all the professional photography, signage, ads and any other marketing strategies that your agent believes is best for your property, as well as listing your home through multiple listing services. It must be kept in mind that regardless of whether the home sells,

the agent has invested their personal time and money into selling your home.

Agents also handle all of the listing and contract paperwork, showings and negotiations; they provide you legal protection, RAWLINGS as they are licensed real estate professionals that follow a strict code of ethics. By listing your home through a brokerage you have the support of their marketing services, a wider pool of buyers provided by multiple listing services, an experienced broker lending guidance and contacts for attorneys. A REALTOR’S® experience and professional association helps their sellers to receive top-dollar for their homes and also ensures safe and ethical transactions transpire.

Other fees to keep in mind are closing costs, which include transfer taxes, escrow expenses, notary fees and much more, especially if there are outstanding balances that must be paid. Ultimately, the “savings” from for sale by owner listings end up costing sellers more money in the long run through lost time, stress and typically, a lower sales price.

Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results.

Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 27

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Article is adapted from: http://www. realtor.com/advice/sell/how-much-doesit-cost-to-sell-a-house/

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SPORTS

28 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

WEEKEND BASEBALL RECAP:

South, Lambert, Central have big offensive performances

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON/FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. —

Friday, Feb. 24 CHATTAHOOCHEE 8, DULUTH 7

Chattahoochee gave up six runs in the second inning and trailed 7-3, but a four-run fourth inning and an Ethan Bowdoin RBI single in the sixth was enough to give the Cougars the eventual win. Chattahoochee improved to 5-1 with the win.

MILTON 5, CHEROKEE 4

Milton took the lead in the top of the sixth with two runs and held on to beat Cherokee. Milton saw four pitchers take the mound, giving up just five hits.

MT. PISGAH 8, ROSWELL 1

Roswell had eight hits, but scored just once, allowing Mt. Pisgah to run away with an 8-1 win. The loss was Roswell’s first of the season. Pisgah improved to 2-4 overall.

SOUTH FORSYTH 9, ST. PIUS X 1

South’s Landon Sims pitched a full game (mercy rule shortened) for the War Eagles, allowing just one hit and striking out seven. South’s offense scored nine runs without an extra-base hit.

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 responded to a suspicious person call in the Parkstone subdivision off Elmo Road Feb. 18.

According to the complainant, a young male approximately 22-yearsold, carrying a backpack with a large knife on his leg was in the neighborhood walking around the area.

When the deputy arrived on scene, he asked the man why he was there and told him if he wasn’t there to see anyone he needed to leave. The deputy offered to drive the man outside of the neighborhood, which he did and the man left walking down Elmo Road.

Two hours later, the deputy received a call that someone fitting the same description was in the woods in the

Saturday, Feb. 25

ALPHARETTA 6, BUFORD 4 (8TH)

Alpharetta led 4-1 entering the top of the seventh inning, but Buford forced extra innings with an Alpharetta error, a walk with the bases loaded and a sacrifice fly.

In the top of the eight, Alpharetta’s Nick Mendlinger hit a two-run walkoff home run to seal the win for the Raiders.

ALPHARETTA 4, WESLEYAN 0

Alpharetta won its second game Saturday by shutting out Wesleyan. Alpharetta pitchers Noah Medlinger and Kalid Sudu teamed up to allow just two hits in the game.

BLESSED TRINITY 12, UNION GROVE 2 Jake Lundovsky had four RBIs in Blessed Trinity’s mercy-rule-shortened win over Union Grove. BT’s Patrick McNamara struck out three in 3.1 innings.

CAMBRIDGE 11, WEST FORSYTH 2

After losing three straight games to Blessed Trinity, Woodstock and Norcross, Cambridge beat West Forsyth in decisive fashion to improve to 2-3 overall.

Austin Weiermiller was credited with the win for the Bears’ with four strikeouts in four innings. neighborhood burying something. The deputy went to the location and found three large knives with sheaths, a pipe and a pouch full of drug paraphernalia.

Man buys employee car, gets fired, causes damage FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After a boss fired an employee, whom he earlier bought a car from, the employee reportedly destroyed the man’s yard and stole the car.

The man said he bought the 2011 Ford F-150 from one of his employees in August 2016. He said he put down some money and agreed to pay monthly installments.

Then in December 2016, he said he had to fire the employee. The employee contacted the sheriff’s office in an attempt to retrieve the car from his

FORSYTH CENTRAL 12, MARIETTA 7

Forsyth Central’s bats were off to a slow start against Marietta, but once they got going the Bulldogs lit up the scoreboard.

The Bulldogs scored 11 of their 12 runs in the fifth and sixth innings. Alex Andrew and Evan Zaharchak each had 3 RBIs in the win.

WALTON 3, JOHNS CREEK 0

Johns Creek was shut out in the first game of the Gladiators’ Saturday doubleheader. Johns Creek managed just one hit in the game.

JOHNS CREEK 5, EAST PAULDING 2

Johns Creek’s offense fared better in their second game of the day, downing East Paulding to improve to 4-2 overall.

East Paulding tied the game at 2-2 in the top of the sixth, but Johns Creek responded with three runs in the bottom of the inning. Bo Majkowski’s single drove in two runs and Majkowski then scored from first on an error to seal the win.

LAMBERT 10, LAGRANGE 2

Four RBIs from Josh McAllister and a six-run sixth inning for Lambert was more than enough to power the Longhorns to victory over LaGrange. Aidan McAllister earned the win for Lambert, striking out seven in five innings pitched. former boss.

The boss said when the employee didn’t “get what he wanted,” the employee went to Cherokee County and filed a police report and reported the car was stolen. The boss said they were able to resolve the situation in Cherokee, and the employer was allowed to keep the car.

But then in February, the employee reportedly came to the boss’s residence with a spare key, took the car and caused damage to his former boss’s yard. The boss said the employee accused him of missing a payment, an allegation the former boss denied.

The boss said he had begun to customize the truck and had tools in the car, totaling over $7,000.

The employee said he will not return the tools and had yet to return the car.

twitter.com/forsythherald

MILTON 14, ST. FRANCIS 4

Milton used 11 hits and seven errors by St. Francis to score 14 runs, the Eagles’ highest run total of the season. Drew Hamrock went 2-4 with 3 RBIs.

NORTHVIEW 8, NORTH FORSYTH 2

Northview scored five runs in the fifth inning which proved enough to take down North Forsyth. DJ Poteet and Michael Wilson each had three RBIs for Northview, who improved to 5-0 with the win.

SEQUOYAH 6, NORTH FORSYTH 4

North Forsyth’s 12 hits led to four runs, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Sequoyah.

North trailed 6-2 entering the bottom of the seventh before a two-run single by pinch hitter Dawson Rickett cut the lead to 6-4, but it would be the last runs for North.

ROSWELL 3, LAKESIDE EVANS 1

Roswell used RBIs from David Thigpen and David Burke in the bottom of the sixth to improve to 6-1 this season. David Thigpen pitched a full game for the Hornets, striking out eight.

PIKE COUNTY 7, KING’S RIDGE 0

King’s Ridge fell to 3-3 after being shut out by Pike County Saturday.

Zoning: Continued from Page 4 to know so we can go back and review,” she said.

A compilation of the county’s zoning activity from 2016 and 2017 shows there were a total of 18 approved residential zonings in 2016, or six zonings in Districts 1 and 3, and two in Districts 2, 4 and 5.

As of Feb.21, there are 42 pending zoning actions. Some of those are carried over from last year, Jones Mills said. By district, those are broken down into 11 zonings in District 1, nine zonings in Districts 2 and 4, 10 zonings in District 3 and three zonings in District 5.

Seven zoning applications were withdrawn in 2016.

“With all the ones coming forward, this shows how important it is to get the county’s comprehensive plan finished,” Jones Mills said. “I wish we could get some new residential categories because I think that could change the makeup of the way the county looks in the future.”

ForsythHerald.com forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 29

DEATH NOTICES Sally Brockington, of Alpharetta, passed away February 15, 2017. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Jeanne Burlingame, of Alpharetta, passed away February 20, 2017.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Deborah Ertzberger, 60, of Cumming, passed away February 17, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

William Nicholson Gantt, 72, of Cumming, passed away February 20, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Vaune R. Mackie, 94, of Cumming, passed away February 19, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Nellie Bell Cranford Evans, 89, of Cumming, passed away February 20, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Doris M. Hudlow, 87, of Cumming, passed away February 18, 2017. Arrangements

by Ingram Funeral Home.

Jack Herman Mitchell, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away February 19, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Richard Haskins, of Roswell, passed away February 15, 2017. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Caroline Solarski, of Alpharetta, passed away February 20, 2017. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Jo Ann Flegal, 76, of Cumming, passed away February 18, 2017. Arrangements

by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Paula Frias, 92, of Roswell, passed away February 21, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

ONLINE INCLUDED

» Hiring? Pay once & we’ll run your ad until your position is filled.* » Selling Something? Pay once and we’ll run your item until it’s sold!*

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

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Full-time PeopleSoft Specialist (Alpharetta, GA) Assist clients w/applications, software products, systems development & implementation, customization and/or business processes. Provide expert level guidance in the areas of analysis & design of systems, analysis of technology platforms, implementation approaches, project strategies, project development methodology, application enhancement methodology & analysis of current systems & user information to customize & implement PeopleSoft Systems. Assess business procedures & develop, implement & maintain customized PeopleSoft solutions for our clients to optimize their operations. Minimum of 5 years of related PeopleSoft experience required. May live anywhere in the US, but position requires ability to travel to unidentified client sites throughout the US during the work week. Apply to Sierra-Cedar, Inc. (EOE) online at: http://www.sierra-cedar.com/ careers/. REF #PSSPEC0216.

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Resume to director@ anausa.org

PRESCHOOL TEACHER-FT/PT INFANT TEACHER. PROGRAM SUPERVISOR. Positions open immediately! Benefits available. Excellent pay.

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FRONT DESK Doctors office. Computer experience. Pleasant team player. Positive attitude.

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Director of Youth Ministry, Alpharetta Presbyterian Church APC is a vibrant, 900-member PC(USA) church seeking a part-time Director of Youth Ministry to work with youth in grades 6-12. Please view full job description and requirements at www. alpharettapres.com/ youth. Submit letter of interest, resume, and 3 references to office@ alpharettapres.com, 770-751-0033.

Client Scheduler for premier homecare agency in Alpharetta.

Must have excellent communication skills and enjoy working with elderly. CNA or LPN certification desired. Prior homecare or scheduling experience a plus. Call 678-230-5971 SECURITY PATROL DRIVER Alpharetta area.

Requires excellent communication skills, customer service and computer skills, highschool diploma/G.E.D, Georgia drivers’ license and clean MVR, clean background check and drug test. $10.25/hour. 40 hours/ week. 770-988-9922 Ext 204 or send resume to: gfields@ thorpeenterprises.com

Part-time BOOKKEEPER & light office work; QB knowledge. Immediate opening! 404-680-5281 PRESCHOOL TEACHER-FT/PT INFANT TEACHER. PROGRAM SUPERVISOR. Positions open immediately! Benefits available. Excellent pay.

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RECEPTIONIST Family-owned and operated Rivermont Golf Club is looking for enthusiastic, customer service oriented receptionist. 25 hours/ week.

Competitive pay, meals, flexible work environment. hrrivermontgc@gmail. com UPSCALE HOUSECLEANER: Wonderful company, specializing highend beautiful homes.

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MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued on page 30

30 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Trinity Manor LLC personal care home; lt 3200 Trinity Church Road Canton 30115 opening in April 2017. State licensed for 5 residents, providing meals, medication assistance, assistance with activities of daily living, socialization, incontinence care, laundry services and housekeeping.

RN owned and operated. Call for questions or a tour! Tracey 770-316-7542

SERVICE DIRECTORY AC/Heating

Flooring

Heating, Air, Plumbing servicing and install.

Insured - Certification #859293363150.

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PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen backsplashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Cleaning Services Housecleaning quality care for your home.

Free Estimates and References. Martina 678-656-4492.

We know clean, leave the details to us!

Concrete We fix UGLY driveways and patios. $100 OFF any concrete job over $1000 New or Repair: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls.

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Call for FREE estimate.

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Driveway REPAIR or REPLACEMENT Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. $150 off any job over $1500 Residential or Commercial.

For a FREE estimate call Dave of McKemey Concrete and Hardscapes 678-914-2576.

Competitive pricing.

Many local references.

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Stonework. 15 years experience. Hundreds of reviews online; see our online photo gallery: Sudlowconcrete.com 404-285-5995

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Installation/Repairs: Carpet, Ceramic, Laminate, Tile, Vinyl, Wood.

Free Estimates!

I can remove carpet wrinkles.

Restreches $35/room.

706-429-4453

Gutters AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www. aarons-gutters.com.

Senior citizen discount!

770-934-2766

Handyman RAM’S HOME SERVICES Kitchen hardware replaced. Appliances and ceiling fans installed. Sink/toilet/ leak repair. www. ramshs.com for list of services. Experienced.

770-769-5498

Kitchen & Bath:

Plumbing, Electrical Drywall and Other Repairs and Installations.

Home Maintenance.

Small Jobs Preferred. Call Mike.

404-647-1406 RELIABLE HOME REPAIRS: 21 years experience.

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ALL CARPENTRY & REPAIRS: Roof Leaks, Wood Rot Repair, Siding, Deck Repairs and Refinishing, Painting, Doors/Windows.

Excellent References.

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Auto Donations

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Yellow Ribbon Tree.

Near perfect reviews and award-winning service. Hands on owner. Free estimates and insured. 770Tree. com 770-744-2200 and ask for Gary.

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

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RAS Landscape Design Installation A full service landscape company capable of doing your job. 25+ years experience.

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Many local references.

Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237

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Basements finished, kitchen and bath rehabs.

All types flooring. Also total home rehab for those who have a rental house or one to sell.

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ForsythHerald.com forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | March 2, 2017 | 31

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Thank you for reading the classifieds.

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CADNET ADS

Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds.

Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home.

Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license identification or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in U.S. dollars.

800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

Miscellaneous

Are you in pain after hernia repair surgery?

You may qualify for significant compensation.

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Autos Wanted

Miscellaneous

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Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

A small list of really good tree services.

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Screened and vetted local services From

Every time you use 770Tree.com to request an estimate, Appen-Rated makes a donation to North Fulton Community Charities or The Drake House.

Do good & get great tree work too!

32 | March 2, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com