Living healthy
Real Estate Report
County named healthiest in Ga. ►►PAGE 5
Sponsored section ►►PAGE 20
Golf tourney held for cancer Local man wants to give back ►►PAGE 10
Intercepting teens
Cpl. Page Cash created program to help troubled youth ►►PAGE 6
April 1, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 14
Dudgeon introduces bill to incorporate Sharon Springs By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com
The Forsyth Central Silver Bulldogs 12-U team parades into Central Park.
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
PLAY BALL:
Central Park opens for the season By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — It’s time to play ball at Central Park, 2300 Keith Bridge Road, now that the spring season has officially started. On March 21, teams gathered for a parade and seasonopening ceremony at the park. Greg Blitz, president of the Central Park Baseball and Softball Booster Club, said they are the only county park that puts on an opening ceremony for baseball and
softball. “We’re all about making sure you have fun here at Central Park,” Blitz said. “This is where it starts with days like this.” Clayton Munnell, the youth supervisor for Central Park, said there are almost 370 baseball and softball teams playing in Forsyth County in the spring. “Without the volunteers, coaches and board members all over the county at all of the parks, we wouldn’t be able to put on a quality program and
have the amount of fun you have out here,” Munnell said. County Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills was at the ceremony to give insight on youth sports and the beginning of Central Park. “This park really means so much to me because it almost wasn’t,” Mills said. “The thencommissioners did a bond and decided after the voters voted that they wanted to make it an amphitheater.” At the time, the county
See OPENS, Page 23
January of 2016,” Dudgeon said. ATLANTA — State Rep. Mike Until Dudgeon (R-South Forsyth/ then, DudJohns Creek) introduced geon plans House Bill 660 on March 25, on holding legislation that would initiate at least three a referendum to incorporate public meetthe city of Sharon Springs in ings, two of DUDGEON southern Forsyth County. which he “We have discussed this hopes to hold in the fall. idea for several months, and “During this time of year, based on the positive results people get distracted with from the Carl Vinson survey, summer and we have a lot of I have decided to begin this people in our area who go out legislative proof town for the cess,” Dudgeon summer and said. “I am esit’s hard to get pecially encourtheir attenaged that the tion,” Dudgeon study showed said. “We will no property tax have the most would be necesdebate in the sary to fund the fall when people city.” are back and The stanin the swing to dard cityhood talk about this process in the issue.” House requires Along with proposed citythe public STATE REP. MIKE DUDGEON hood legislation R-South Forsyth/Johns Creek meetings, Dudto be introgeon is hoping duced a year to gauge his before it can be considered constituents’ views on the for a vote, so although the possible city. bill was officially introduced “I am looking not to my March 25, it cannot be colleagues but the communiconsidered for passage until ty first,” Dudgeon said. “The 2016. way I look at it is in multiple “I want to have a robust phases. First, we started with public debate over the pros an idea. Then we need to get and cons of a new city for the support for the idea. We used rest of this year before maka study to see if it’s feasible, ing a final decision to push and I got enough positive the bill when we return for the next legislative session in See BILL, Page 4
I am looking not to my colleagues but the community first.”
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Smoke detectors a necessity By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — A Johns Creek resident died March 9 after her home caught fire. Her home did not have working smoke detectors. As far as fire safety, fire officials say working smoke detectors are extremely important. “Smoke detectors are the No. 1 source of safety for a resident,” said Roswell Fire Marshal Paul Piccirilli. “That’s what going to wake you up in the middle of the night and get you out of the house.” Nationally, three of every five home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms, reports the National Fire Protection Association. Piccirilli said there are several different kinds of smoke detector from which residents can choose. They all detect smoke, although they work differently. Residents should think carefully before choosing one. In Roswell, residents are invited to schedule a free home safety inspection through the Roswell Fire Department. Inspections typically take one to two hours and can be set up by contacting Chris Cooper at 770-594-6225 or ccooper@ roswellgov.com. These inspections will cover smoke detectors as well as escape plans and ways to prevent fire from happening in the first place. For more safety tips, visit the U.S. Fire Administration at www.usfa.fema.gov or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org. Below are four simple fire safety checks residents can complete this spring: Change smoke alarm batteries Is your smoke alarm still working? A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. • Replace batteries at least once a year; replace entire smoke alarm every 10 years. • Make sure you have a smoke alarm on every floor of your home, in every bedroom and in the hallway outside each sleeping area. • Choose smoke alarms that communicate with each other,
DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
DUI arrests
►► Tha Hlei Thang, 28, of Lawrenceville
was arrested March 15 on Peachtree Parkway in Suwanee for DUI and fol-
so that if one alarm sounds, they all will. Check fire extinguisher A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives. • Ensure nothing is blocking or limiting your ability to reach it. • Check recommended pressure level – many extinguishers have gauges that show when pressure is too high or too low. • Inspect working parts to make sure can, hoses and nozzles aren’t damaged, dented or rusted. • Clean dust, oil or grease that might be on the outside of the extinguisher. • Follow guidelines and instructions – some extinguishers need to be shaken monthly; others need to be pressure tested every few years. Clean clothes dryer Approximately 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year, and the leading cause is failure to clean them. • Have dryer installed and serviced by a professional. • Do not use dryer without lint filter; clean filter before and after each cycle. • Clean back of dryer where lint can build up. • Check venting system behind dryer to make sure it’s not damaged. • Make sure outdoor vent covering opens when dryer is operating. Inspect your garage Every year, there are approximately 6,600 garage fires, and the leading cause is electrical malfunction from shorts in wires, damaged wires and overloading outlets. • Store oil, gasoline, paints, propane and varnish in a shed away from the home. • Keep items that can burn on shelves away from appliances. • Plug only one charging appliance into an outlet. • Do not use an extension cord when charging an appliance. • Install a heat alarm (different from a smoke alarm) in garage. • Use a 20-minute fire-rated door that is self-closing and self-latching from garage into the house.
lowing too closely. ►► Thandiwe K. Longwe, 21, of Fourth Rail Lane, Cumming, was arrested March 15 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Ashley Nichole Nash, 31, of Woodland Hills Drive, Cumming, was arrested March 13 on Canton Road in Cumming for DUI, child endangerment and following too closely. ►► James Russell Henderson, 42, of
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Sinclair Shores Road, Cumming, was arrested March 14 on Keith Bridge Road in Cumming for DUI. ►► Jameson Hunter Englert, 26, of Rogers Circle, Cumming, was arrested March 14 on Southend Street in Cumming for DUI and possession of marijuana. ►► Richard Wesley Schneider, 30, of Matthew Meadow Court, Alpharetta,
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POLICE BLOTTER 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.
Child gets hit by car CUMMING, Ga. — On March 16, a 9-year-old was struck by a vehicle after running after a ball into the roadway. A Cumming Police officer
Arrests: Continued from Page 2 was arrested March 14 on Atlanta Highway in Alpharetta for DUI, headlight violation and obstruction of an officer. ►► Frank Dubignon Woodcock, 49, of Lanier Heights Drive, Cumming, was arrested March 14 on Highway 9 in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Thomas Andrew Hoffman, 22, of Overlake Drive, Cumming, was arrested March 14 on Highway 141 in Cumming for DUI, speeding, open container, tampering with evidence and possession of a schedule I controlled substance. ►► John Larry Carter, 71, of Suwanee was arrested March 14 on Mathis Airport Parkway in Suwanee for DUI and hit and run. ►► Christopher Aaron Gold, 24, of Atlanta was arrested March 15 on Ga. 400 in
arrived on the scene to find the boy laying in the road bleeding from his face and various head wounds. The boy’s father told officers their family was walking on the sidewalk and his children were playing with a ball when one dropped it. The boy ran after the ball directly into traffic and was struck by a truck. The driver said he was driving along Dahlonega Street when he saw the boy. He reportedly told officers it all happened so fast and all he could do was lock his breaks down
and swerve to avoid the boy. Officers observed no impairment and found skid marks consistent with the driver’s story. The officer determined no persons to be at fault for the incident and no criminal charges were filed against the driver. No negligence charges will be sought against any of the child’s family because he reportedly suddenly darted into the road. At the time of the report, the child had sustained mild skull fractures and multiple lacerations as well as a con-
cussion, but was in otherwise good condition.
Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and possession of marijuana. ►► Richard Dennis Munson, 56, of Martin Road, Roswell, was arrested March 15 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI, open container and failure to maintain lane. ► ► Christopher Robert Watson, 43, of Harmony Hill Road, Cumming, was arrested March 15 on Freedom Parkway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Ainsley Claire McDonald, 32, of Etcetera Lane, Cumming, was arrested March 15 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► William Tyrone Scott, 30, of Jefferson Place, Cumming, was arrested March 15 on Market Place Boulevard in Cumming for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Igor Sergeev, 39, of Thornbury Way, Alpharetta, was arrested March 20 on Brookwood Road in Cumming for DUI, child endangerment and failure to obey a traffic
control device. ►► Dawn Michelle Smith, 40,
of Stardust Trail, Cumming, was arrested March 21 on
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2 dogs stolen from Humane Society FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman reportedly stole two puppies from the Humane Society of Forsyth County. The woman came into the shelter March 12 and said she had been informed there were two puppies there that she could foster. Shelter workers said the puppies had appointments the next day to get
spayed, but that the woman could take them overnight. The next morning, the woman reportedly didn’t return with the puppies for their appointments and wouldn’t answer calls. On March 15, the woman left the shelter a voicemail saying the puppies escaped from her car and she couldn’t find them. The woman reportedly wouldn’t answer any calls. A shelter worker went to her house to find out more information. When he arrived, the
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4 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
County employees could get raise By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — At the March 24 Board of Commissioners work session, Evergreen Solutions LLC suggested the commission consider a 2.2 percent cost of living adjustment for county employees as part of its Forsyth County Compensation Study. Nancy Berkley with Evergreen Solutions gave the presentation and said group compared Forsyth County to its peers and similar counties to gauge salary range schedules. Berkley said Evergreen suggested applying a 2.2 percent cost of living adjustment salary increase based on an average taken from the Consumer Price Index for the Southeast. This would cost $1,190,680. The city’s current pay range schedule is used for both exempt and non-exempt classifications, and has a total of 34 numbered pay grades, Berkley said. “The county has consistent range widths, with an average of 47 percent,” Berkley said. “All but two pay grades have a range width of 47 percent. Pay grades 43 and 45 have a width of 52 percent.” There are currently 184 employees, or 16 percent of all, with salaries at or below the minimum, Berkley said. Only one of those employees is considered below minimum. These employees average half a year
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in the current classification. There are 121 employees, or 10 percent, with salaries at or above the maximum, and average 9.8 years in their current classification. Three of these employees are considered at the maximum. The study compiled salary data from 17 of 21 identified market peers, Berkley said, including the cities of Alpharetta, Atlanta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell and Sandy Springs. Counties included AthensClarke, Bartow, Carroll, Cobb, DeKalb and Gwinnett. “We compared the county’s salary ranges for classifications to average market range,” Berkley said. “The average peer market range spread was 57.4 percent.” In the current schedule, the county is behind 4.2 percent for minimum, behind 8.7 percent for midpoint and behind 11.5 percent for maximum. “We recommend, if you adopt our new schedule, the minimum would be .6 percent above and slightly below the midpoint and maximum,” Berkley said. For market competitiveness, the county’s benefits as is roughly equal to the market average, at 35.9 percent versus 35.6 percent. The county offers two health plans, and the other benefit options were either comparable to, or in some cases, more generous that its peer’s offering, Berkley said. There were two options as for what to do next, Berkley said. The first being “bring employees to minimum,” with a total cost of $1,612,994. The second was “current range penetration capped at midpoint of 2.2 percent.” This would cost $41,966, 034. The commissioners decided to bring it back to the finance committee for review before making the next step.
Joyce McNutt was honored for her 31 years of service with Forsyth County.
BOC honors retiring employee CUMMING, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recognized Joyce McNutt for her service with the Forsyth County government. McNutt has worked with the Forsyth County Tax Assessor’s Office for 31 years from her position as lands records manager. -Joe Parker
Charity tourney celebrates National Donate Life Month CUMMING, Ga. — Local resident and liver transplant recipient Kirk Franz will bring his annual Swing Easy Hit Hard charity golf tournament to the Windermere Golf Course April 16 to celebrate National Donate Life Month. After he received a lifesaving liver transplant, Franz established the charity tournament and Swing Easy Hit Hard Foundation in 2012. The foundation is a fundraising organization that increases organ donation awareness and provides support for patients and families affected by organ donation and transplantation. In 2010, Franz was diagnosed with a rare liver disease and bile duct cancer. Due to the cancer diagnosed in his liver, he was on the organ wait list for less than a week. “I had no idea how often
Bill: Continued from Page 1 feedback to say there’s enough support to take the next step. I will put the bill out there and my job as a legislator is to listen to my constituents over the next year and me be convinced the majority of my constituents wants this to happen.” If passed by the General Assembly during the 2016 legislative session, H.B. 660 would hold a referendum for voters on May 24, 2016. If voters approve the proposed city, an election for city council and mayor would be held on Nov. 8, 2016, and the city would operate as of Jan. 1, 2017. The city would be limited to a maximum millage rate of 0.5 mills, and would only handle
people in the Atlanta area were receiving an organ transplant,” Franz said. “There are several each week. And most have to wait a lot longer than I did to receive their gift of life.” After Franz recovered from his transplant, he felt called to find a way to “give back” to others who would require an organ transplant. With the help of family and friends, Franz created the golf tournament and foundation. This year’s tournament will be held during National Donate Life Month on April 16 at the Windermere Golf Course, 5000 Davis Love Drive in Cumming. Each player will receive a Chickfil-A lunch, an embroidered pullover, hat, non-alcoholic drinks and post-golf dinner banquet, featuring live music, a silent auction, raffle drawings and awards.
zoning, sanitation and code enforcement. If the city wanted to expand services to roads, parks or other items, they would need to receive voter approval. The approximate boundaries of the proposed city are east of Ga. 400, south of Ga. 20, the river and the Fulton county line. The population would be roughly 50,000 residents. “The Sharon Springs Alliance is thrilled with the introduction of House Bill 660,” said Phillip Barlag, chairman of the Sharon Springs Alliance. “The families and businesses of south Forsyth County are one step closer toward greater local control – allowing us to chart our own course to address overdevelopment, increased traffic and school overcrowding. Most importantly, this allows the residents of South Forsyth to tackle these problems without the need to raise property taxes.”
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 5
Forsyth named healthiest county County’s third year in a row By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County has been recognized once again for being the healthiest county in Georgia, according to the sixth annual County Health Rankings compiled by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Overall, Georgia ranked 38 out of all the states. “When we look at how long people live, we examine what we call ‘premature death,’ i.e., deaths before age 75, since many of these deaths are preventable,” the report said. “Specifically, we look at the years of life lost so that deaths at an earlier age are given more weight than deaths among those closer to age 75. To estimate how healthy people feel, we use measures of people’s reported health status and how often they feel healthy each month. And, our final measure of health outcomes gauges the share of a community’s youngest mem-
bers that have an unhealthy start to life — we look at the percent of babies born with low birth weight.” Forsyth recorded 4,234 years of life lost due to premature death, with Georgia’s overall being 7,314. Forsyth also had a 7 percent rate of poor or fair health for quality of life compared to Georgia’s 16 percent, and 6.9 percent low birth weight rate, compared with Georgia’s at 9.5 percent. The county reported 12 percent of adults as smokers. In Georgia, smokers account for 18 percent. In Forsyth County, 25 percent of adults were reported as being obese, compared with 29 percent for Georgia. “The purpose of the County Health Rankings is to serve as a call to action to improve health within all states and local communities by comparing counties within states and highlighting their differences in health,” the key findings said. “Identifying the healthiest or least healthy county in the United States would not serve this purpose. However, the rankings do include data on top performing counties across the nation for each of the 35 measures, so communi-
In Forsyth County, 25 percent of adults were reported as being obese, compared with 29 percent for Georgia. ties can see how they compare to other counties in their state and how they compare to these top performing counties in the nation.” Six percent of the county is unemployed. In Georgia, that figure is 8.2 percent. Forsyth ranked first for health outcomes, including length and quality of life, first for health behaviors, ninth for clinical care, second for social and economic factors, 100 for physical environment and third overall for health factors.
Senate honors Forsyth County Sheriff’s Dept. ATLANTA, Ga. — Senator Michael Williams (R – Cumming) sponsored Senate Resolution 265 on March 26 commending the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department for their courageous actions to resist an armed attack launched against the old Forsyth County Courthouse on June 6, 2014. During the shooting, deputies engaged Dennis Marx, who attacked the Courthouse armed with
multiple firearms and explosives, ultimately killing him. “The officers of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department are true heroes,” said Williams. “They put their own personal safety aside to protect the individuals at the courthouse and their actions are well deserving of recognition and honor. I want to thank the officers for their
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Teen Interception Program helps troubled youth By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — “Your life isn’t over; you’re young. It’s all what you make it.” That’s what Forsyth County Sheriff’s Maj. Richard Doyle told the 16 teenagers at the county’s first Teen Interception Program March 24. The teens, who are all court-mandated to participate in the seven-week program, sat with their parents and guardians as they listened to an introduction. The program is the brain child of Cpl. Page Cash, who said it’s an educational drug program for youth aged 1317 and attending a Forsyth County School. “I come from a background of ministry and missionary,” Cash said. “I used to rescue ladies from bridges in Atlanta and started a woman’s recovery center, which is how I first got involved in recovery. I also worked with high-at-risk children in the city as well. I was a youth leader for three years at our church so I love kids, and it all came together.” It was her passion, Cash
said. “I would get calls from parents who need help and there wasn’t anything to offer them,” Cash said. “I went to Sheriff Duane Piper and asked permission to put something together, and when I presented it, they loved it. They told me to do whatever I needed to make it happen by spring.” After this first class, the next program offered will be for parents who think their teen needs it, Cash said. “Any program that involves the youth is important,” Doyle said. “Kids, especially at this age, are in their more formidable years, so this is when a lot of things that will shape their lives in the future will happen.” The program will have different themes each week including testimonials from officers and parents who have lost their kids due to drugs. The program will also offer three off-site trips to the three places Cash says these kids will end up if they don’t change their ways — jail, under a bridge or death. “If these deputies can develop rapport with these kids and get to know them, to us it’s a preventative measure,” Doyle
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Cpl. Page Cash created the Teen Interception Program to help troubled teens in the community. said. “These types of programs may not pay off for 10 to 15 years from now, but if you don’t start somewhere and nip things in the bud, it just continues to spiral out of control and can become like a virus.” They stressed that this is not a scared straight type of class. Instead, it reiterates to the teens that their parents
and the program workers are all there to help them. Cash told the teenagers that they’re worth it. “You’re just at a dead-end,” Doyle said. “You still have options. You might think you have it bad, but you don’t – because you’re still alive.” Cash said it’s important to have a program like this
because there’s a drug problem in the county. “We’ve been having some overdoses,” Cash said. “There are all kinds of programs for adults, but nothing available for teenagers. This community isn’t going to sit by and wait until it’s too late. We want to be proactive now and try to reach these kids now. “
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NFHS holds informational parent expo FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On March 24, North Forsyth High School’s counseling department hosted its first free parenting expo, featuring keynote speaker Tim Elmore. Elmore spoke to the over 120 attendees about the unique qualities of this generation of children and adolescents, addressing many of the concerns and challenges that accompany raising children in the 21st century. Following cases of drug overdoses and suicide within the community, Assistant Principal Dawn Phipps organized the event. “The event was our outreach to the community, letting them know that we are committed to supporting our families in Forsyth County,” Phipps said. “Our role as educators doesn’t end with simply teaching English, math, science and social studies. It is to support the entire child inside and outside of the classroom.” Elmore’s keynote speech was followed by several breakout sessions. These sessions covered topics such as drug and alcohol awareness, suicide prevention and mental health, social media and cyberbullying and behavioral issues. Sergeant Richard Thompson and Deputy Tom Little of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department presented a breakout session on drug and alcohol awareness which helped parents to identify various drugs and signs to look for in their children. “The officers presented information
Over 120 people attended the parent expo at NFHS. that was informative and pragmatic,” said Tim Keyser, the instructional technology specialist at NFHS. ”Parents were able to see, firsthand, the types of drugs and paraphernalia which present the greatest risk and are most prevalent in the adolescent population.” These issues are not unique to our
community, and access to a wide range of information is essential for parents in today’s world. Increased awareness allows effective preventions, interventions and management of the scope of issues facing today’s children and teens. “I was so happy I took the time to attend the Expo at NFHS,” said Bonnie
Martin, NFHS parent and Local School Council representative. “Tim Elmore delivered an engaging presentation with great insights into parenting that every parent in America needs to hear. The break-out sessions were the perfect follow-up to Dr. Elmore’s speech.” —Kathleen Sturgeon
8 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
OPINION
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How to relentlessly protect your civil rights
Hand soap: A story of free-spirited opulence I am quite fascinated by the marketing world. After all, it is entirely dedicated to making their product standout amongst the crowd, to make it seem somehow better than the competition. This is obvious and rather blatant on big-ticket items such as cars, television sets and washing machines. But what I truly love about marketing is the way they try to upsell items that, well, just are not that important. Also, the ways in which they market differently to men and women. For instance, this is exactly what appears on the hand soap that resides in my bathroom: “Melt away worries with calming vanilla fragrance hand soap. Vanilla is known for creating a feeling of free-spirited opulence. Bring a sense of sunshine into yourself as you wash your hands with Vanilla Bean Hand Soap.” You know what, they were right. Upon using this soap, my worries melted away. I was hit with such a feeling of free-spirited opulence I went out and purchased a Ferrari 458 and drove down Highway 9 doing 120 mph. And I truly felt the “sense of sunshine” inside myself…whatever that means. No, no I did not. In fact, upon using this soap, the only stirring in my soul was, “This smells pretty good.” As far as I could tell, the scent was the only discernable difference between this hand soap and a 50 cent bar of soap. My hands did not feel any cleaner, and the only worries it melted away were the worries of grease, grime and crud on my hands. I think it safe to say that
JOE PARKER
Appen Intern news@appenmedia group.com
this soap was being directly marketing to females. I say this, not because I believe any woman would ever be so naïve as to believe that a hand soap will create a sense of freespiritedness, but for the fact that it is very obvious that those in marketing know that women will sometimes actually read a label. Therefore, they have a chance to convey that their product, though it is no different from any other hand soap, is somehow better. The only time a man will ever read the label on a toiletry item is when he has forgotten to bring his cellphone with him to the toilet. If the vanilla hand soap in question had simply stated, “This hand soap smells amazing and will get your hands clean,” they would have stated everything that needed to be said. The scent is wonderful and it takes care of Dijon-mustard fingers, as I found out. But upon closer inspection, I found that this soap was, in fact, not being marketing to women. No, the language was colorful and the descriptions grandiose because they were trying to distract you from the price. $12 – for a bottle of hand soap. Clearly, whoever purchased this soap (and it was not me) was lured by this marketing ploy. Well done, marketing team.
Upon using this soap, my worries melted away. I was hit with such a feeling of free-spirited opulence I went out and purchased a Ferrari 458 and drove down Highway 9 doing 120 mph.
Essayist Maxwell Turk is a sophomore at Northview High School. His essay submission to the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was among the top 12 selected out of a field of 800 for the museum’s nationwide Selma Speech and Essay Contest. The movie “Selma” was a reawakening of my history. It re-framed the context for many of the injustices that still exist in today’s society. The movie touched my core as I viewed the struggles for the right to vote during the 1960s. People of color have suffered longstanding discrimination, while seeking basic rights. I could easily align the events of the 1960s with the recent events of 2014 when young men of color were killed by law enforcement, when young teens and college students took their own lives because of bullying or when students felt alienated in their communities and schools because they looked, worshipped and dressed differently or had different mental and physical abilities. As I gave serious thought to the movie, it became very clear that I have a responsibility to sustain the rights won by my ancestors and to advance the freedoms still needed by my peers, my society and my cultural heirs. First, I believe that in order to protect individual rights there must be well-
defined laws that regulate as to how people are to be treated humanely regardless of their status in life. As a young AfriTURK can American male, my first obligation is to remain a law-abiding citizen. Then, I can go a step further by working with my school and community organizations to invite law enforcement to events that promote constructive and progressive discussion about how we can better the quality of life for all citizens, especially the lives of people of color. Second, I believe that bullying is a violation of personal rights. No one has a right to debase someone because they do not like that person. As a supporter of personal rights, I can make a valiant effort to prevent myself and my friends from ostracizing others. When I see such actions occur, not only can I befriend the victim, but I can also ensure that adults are informed so that the action is discontinued. Additionally, I can ensure that my school, community, church and peer groups promote non-bullying environments and spread the message beyond our own communities so that our elected officials place a high priority on protecting and preventing the violation of
personal and civil rights from the cradle to the grave. Third, I believe that all people should be allowed to enjoy the benefits so clearly spelled out in the Constitution of the United States. People should not be alienated because they are different. I will embrace those who are different and include those who are excluded. I will promote rules, regulations and laws that ensure that mentally and physically challenged people are included in the scope and range of activities in school and in society. I will celebrate my own heritage to its fullest, but I will continue to integrate and appreciate the culture of those who are different and defend their rights to celebrate their diversity. The movie “Selma” made me recommit to assuring that there are Safe Environment Lanes Maintained for All (SELMA).To advance civil rights, we must always remember the contributions made by our ancestors to give society the hope of a better life. As an African American, I must always peacefully advance these civil rights to ensure my descendants do not experience the same traumatic events my ancestors were forced to tolerate. If not for the Civil Rights Movement, the world would be a horrific place for people of color. I will work tirelessly to continue the tradition of progressing the rights of all people.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
House Bill 1 leaves out thousands Editor’s note: H.B. 1, also called Haleigh’s Hope Act, was introduced by Rep. Allen Peake in this year’s legislative session to legalize the use of cannabis oil to treat certain medical conditions. In the original bill, those conditions included cancer at certain stages, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at certain stages, seizure disorders related to epilepsy or trauma related to head injuries, certain stages of multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, mitochondrial disease, Parkinson’s disease at certain stages and sickle cell disease at certain stages. The version passed by the Senate was amended to remove fibromyalgia. My wife Lynne and I have been following House Bill 1 since it started in the 2014 session. As our three senators and other key members of the Legislature know, this bill will bring serious relief to thousands of men, women and children suffering from the nine medical conditions in the original bill. What you may not know is how devastating
for Lynne and thousands like her with serious Fibromyalgia if you omit this one condition from the bill. Why on earth would you single this one devastating chronic condition out to be omitted? Every friend and family we know has someone with fibromyalgia. L ynne has sought every medical avenue available for the last five years since she was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Her specialists have told her if you have fibromyalgia and arthritis (which she does), the combination makes her ongoing pain 10 times worse. Omitting this one devastating medical condition from the final bill dashes our hopes that this new treatment might reduce or eliminate the pain she suffers every day of her life. Please leave this condition in the new law. We sincerely hope you will, as I’m sure thousands of other sufferers do. Thanks. –Lynne and Zac Henderson, Lathemtown
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Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 9 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
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Norman’s Landing held a ping pong tournament March 24-25 to raise money for Autism Awareness.
Norman’s Landing holds ping pong tournament for Autism Awareness By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Ping pong isn’t just a sport to play at Norman’s Landing — it’s a way to help the community. On March 24-25, Norman’s Landing, 365 Peachtree Parkway, held its 39th ping pong tournament for charity. This time, players raised money to
help a local high school Autism Awareness Club. Owner Bill Norman said twice a year, they donate proceeds from the tournaments to selected charities. “We have all the kids from the South Forsyth High School Autism Awareness Club who come to the restaurant every other Thursday and they clean the condi-
ments, menus and tables and roll silverware,” Norman said. “Their teachers come with them and it’s about 10 to 12 kids who come. They’re all great people and do a great job.” The money from the tournament, which Norman said should total around $2,000, will go toward a trip the club will take in May.
Community yard sale at Central Park Takes place April 4 CUMMING, Ga. — Forsyth County Parks and Recreation will host a community yard sale at Central Park April 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The yard sale will take place in the Central Park tennis court parking area. Central Park is located at 2300 Keith Bridge Rd. For more information, contact Parks and Recreation at (678) 455-8540. -Joe Parker
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In total, the ping pong tournaments have raised over
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10 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Organ transplant recipient ‘pays it forward’ Charity golf tournament supports Swing Easy Hit Hard Foundation By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. – Johns Creek Parks Manager Kirk Franz knows what it is like to stare cancer in the face and walk away with the gift of life. Now he wants to help others have that same chance. In May of 2010, Franz, a Cumming resident, got the news no 37-year-old husband and father wants to hear. He had a rare liver disease and bile duct cancer. Without a liver transplant and radiation and chemotherapy, he had little expectation to live. He went on radiation and chemo for six months, and then was cleared to be put on the waiting list for a new liver. How long a wait, no one could predict. Then Franz caught a break. “I was on the list for less than a week when I got the call to go in and get my liver transplanted,” said Franz. “It was lucky for me they were able to find a match pretty quick.” There is nothing like receiving the diagnosis of the need
for a transplant and then experiencing the wait. “I had no idea how often people in the Atlanta area were receiving an organ transplant,” said Franz. “There are several each week. And most have to wait a lot longer than I did to receive their gift of life.” Today, Franz is healthy and cancer-free. But he has not forgotten those who helped him return to his family. After his recovery, Franz said he felt called to find a way to “give back” to others who would require an organ transplant. In 2012, with the help of family and friends, Franz established an annual charity golf tournament and the Swing Easy Hit Hard Foundation. The foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) fundraising organization with a mission to increase organ donation awareness and to provide support for patients and families affected by organ donation and transplantation. “We needed to raise money for my medical expenses that first year, so we started the golf tournament. Now we are
Quick facts about organ donation • Approximately 121,614 people are waiting for an organ • 18 people will die each day waiting for an organ • 1 organ donor can save up to 8 lives • To learn more about being an organ donor, visit www. DonateLifeGeorgia.org. continuing the tournament to raise money to help other families with organ transplants,” Franz said. Last year, the tournament was the most successful ever, raising $12,000 for the Emory University Hospital Transplant Center and the Georgia Transplant Foundation. This year’s event will be held April 16 at the Windermere Golf Course in Forsyth County. The charity event is timed to celebrate National Donate Life Month, and proceeds benefit Georgia organ transplant patients and families. In addition to golf, each
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Swing Easy Hit Hard Charity Golf Tournament Date: Thursday, April 16 Location: Windermere Golf Club, 5000 Davis Love Dr., Cumming, Ga. Time: Check-in at noon; shotgun start at 1 p.m. Fee: $150/player or $550/foursome Registration and info: www.SwingEasyHitHard.org player will receive a Chick-fil-A lunch, an embroidered pullover, hat, non-alcoholic drinks and post-golf dinner banquet. This year’s dinner banquet will feature live music, a silent auction, raffle drawings and awards. “Every day and every week, there are families here in Atlanta who are going through a liver transplant,” he said. “It’s
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a rough time to go through between having to be off work and the stress of having health issues.” So if people are interested in becoming an organ donor after they die, they need to make their wishes known to family members. “So even though there is death, someone can have a new life,” he said.
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Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 11 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Library’s new database helps with history homework
Varun Kumar
Local student named 3rd place winner in state spelling bee CUMMING, Ga. — Varun Kumar, an eighth-grader at Vickery Creek Middle, earned the third place prize at the 54th annual Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) State Spelling Bee March 20. Kumar had previously won his school spelling bee, the Forsyth County spelling bee and the District 2 regional
spelling bee to earn a position among 20 students competing for the state title. At the state bee, Kumar got out in round eight with the word “opificer.” Both first and second place winners at the state bee were from private schools, making Kumar the winner in the state among public school districts. —Kathleen Sturgeon
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Local students will be getting a little extra help with their history homework this spring thanks to a new set of research databases at the Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL). FCPL launched a History Research Center, a network of databases provided by Infobase Learning on April 1. This new eLibrary resource can be accessed from a library computer or from any location by logging onto the library website at www. forsythpl.org by simply selecting eResources from the homepage and then clicking History. The service is free and a library card is not required when visiting a library branch. Outside of the library, users need a library card and PIN to access the database. “History Research Center will help middle school, high school, and college-level students locate articles, images, primary source documents, biographies, videos, and maps to complete research papers, projects, and homework assignments,” said Linda Kelly, assistant director for materi-
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articles and images. The American Indian History database helps students explore 15,000 years of Native American history and culture, along with records related to 600 distinct Native American groups. “We selected History Research Center for the eResources collection because it offers so many tools that are relevant to our students, to their teachers and to the historical curriculum studied from middle school to college in our area,” said Kelly. “This platform offers focused topic centers that both teachers and students can use, study guides for specific historical events or subjects, timelines to help students understand the context and order of historical events and tools to create citations for writing research papers. Teachers might also like to use the slideshow overview feature to give students a visual introduction to the material they’re about to cover in class.” To use the new History Research Center, please visit www.forsythpl.org. —Kathleen Sturgeon
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als. The platform includes five databases that can be searched individually or cross-searched together, helping students find the resources they need more quickly. The Ancient and Medieval History database provides a survey of prehistoric times through the 1500s. Special topic centers on key regions and civilizations are also provided. The Modern World History database covers the broad expanse of world history from the mid-15th century to the present, including indepth biographical references for key leaders, scientists, artists and other historical figures. The American History database delivers more than 500 years of cultural, political, social and military history. It also offers support for local curriculum objectives with increased coverage for women’s history and government in the U.S. The African-American History database is a comprehensive examination of the African-American experience in the U.S. including thousands of cross-referenced
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12 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
Making bald heads for St. Baldrick’s
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Shaving for childhood cancer support By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The Harp Irish Pub was full Sunday, March 8. While that may not be much of a surprise, what is a surprise is the reason – to shave heads. The Roswell pub was hosting its annual St. Baldrick’s fundraiser. Since 2007, the Harp has hosted the event to raise funds for research into childhood cancer. The Harp event alone has raised more than $387,000 for childhood cancer research, and raised over $80,000 last year, said Tanya Connolly-Walsh. It hopes to recreate that effort this year. Connolly-Walsh, whose family owns the Harp, is personally affected by childhood cancer. Her son was just 6 weeks old when he was diagnosed with cancer. “I’ll never forget that date – March 17,” said ConnollyWalsh. Her son, Keelin, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma 10 years ago. He has been
cancer-free for seven years. Since then, the need for childhood research and support has been on ConnollyWalsh’s mind. Much like a race, St. Baldrick events have participants shave their heads to raise money. Marietta resident Pryor Paxton has shaved his head for four years at the event. This year, he brought two of his sons – James, 14, and Luke, 9, who was the youngest participant for the day. “I felt bad for the kids who have cancer and lose their hair,” James said. Pryor said he was proud his sons joined him this year. “It’s great to have them do it,” he said. “It’s a great organization.” Team Spider Monkey has about seven members from throughout the metro Atlanta region. They make a habit of doing St. Baldrick’s events. All together, they have raised almost $150,000. Spider Monkey founder John Vestal, of Cumming, said he heard about the events after
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
The Paxton family – from left, James, Pryor and Luke – each shaved their heads to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancer. a similar Georgia Tech headshaving event. “I decided I wanted to learn more about it,” he said. “I saw the effect of can-
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cer but also saw the treatment impairing the quality of life.” Better treatment is needed. Thus the need for fundraisers
to help discover those treatments. For more information on St. Baldrick’s, visit www.stbaldricks.org.
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 13
Religious Services Celebrate Holy Week with
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Come, Make Yourself at Home this Easter Maundy Thursday • April 2 • 7:00 p.m
Service in the Chapel, Youth Choir, Intimate Communion
Good Friday • April 3 • 7:00 p.m.
Sanctuary Tenebrae Service featuring John Stainer’s “Crucifixion” performed by the Chancel Choir and Grammy Award-Winning Soloists
Easter Sunday • April 5 • Sunrise Service • 6:15 a.m. • Soccer Fields Sanctuary Services • 8:30 a.m., 9:50 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sanctuary Chancel Choir and Orchestra
Childcare is available at Entrance D on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday & Easter Sunday (Bell Road side). There will be no Sunday School on Easter Sunday. Johns Creek United United Methodist Church 11180 Medlock Bridge Road • Johns Creek, GA 30097 Dr. D.B. Shelnutt, Jr., Senior Pastor www.JohnsCreekUMC.org
14 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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Forsyth County is for us. “Our passionate local workforce and
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cummingforsythchamber.org
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 15
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Healthcare Association of Forsyth County Presents Annual Boulder Dash
In 2014 the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce successfully participated in more than 20 economic development projects that are forecasted to bring $104 million in new capital investment and more than 1,000 new jobs to the community. This year the organization forecasts that it will surpass last year’s totals. Since January of 2015 the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has already participated in two economic development projects that are collectively forecasted to generate $2 million in new capital investment, as well as over 100 new jobs. Additionally, Forsyth County’s unemployment rate has fallen to 4.9 percent, as compared to nation’s rate of 5.4 percent and Georgia’s rate of 6.6 percent.
The Healthcare Association of Forsyth County, a division of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, has partnered with Northside Hospital-Forsyth and Bluegrass Materials Company to bring you the 6th annual Boulder Dash 5k/10k. Taking place on Saturday, April 25th, the Boulder Dash will begin at Northside Forsyth, and finish at the Bluegrass Quarry. Boulder Dash is a
For more information about upcoming economic development initiatives, please visit www.cummingforsythchamber.org/ economic-development.
unique opportunity to run or walk through an environmentally responsible, operational rock quarry. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit the Forsyth County Parks Foundation, Inc. (FCPF), a group of community members who work to support and improve Forsyth County’s parks and recreation facilities and activities. Register for the Boulder Dash online at www.RunBoulderDash. com.
South Forsyth Community Improvement District Voting is now open for commercial property owners in South Forsyth County to establish a new Community Improvement District (CID) in Forsyth County. For well over a year, the Cumming-
Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has been working diligently to help businesses and commercial property owners in the South Forsyth / McFarland Road area to create the South Forsyth CID. If
approved, the CID will be led by a Board of Directors elected by and comprised of commercial property owners in the district. The CID has the ability to levy a millage rate increase (ONLY on commercial
property) and use those funds to match state and federal dollars to build important transportation infrastructure. The CID will be a nice compliment to the North Fulton CID that has been doing impor-
tant work building critical infrastructure for several years. To learn more about the South Forsyth CID or to get involved, visit www.southforsythcid.com
16 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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Belle Isle urges business take larger role in community Alpharetta honors local businesses By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Metropolitan Club in Alpharetta was filled with the movers and shakers of the city’s business world March 26, at the third annual Alpharetta Business Awards. The event was not so much a giving of awards as it was recognition of those who have received them. Local businesses that excelled in their fields in the past year were honored for being good at what they do.
“We want to recognize businesses that are doing their highest in the city,” said Peter Tokar, the city’s economic development BELL ISLE director. Each of the roughly 100 businesses represented had been honored in the past year as being the best at what they do. They were given a “challenge coin,” as a mark of appreciation for their efforts, by the city. Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle addressed the business leaders and urged them
For list of winners and their awards, visit NorthFulton.com to help make the city a better place. In every city, there are consumers and creators, he said. The creators make up less than 1 percent of the population, but are responsible for creating a vibrant and engaging community. “What are you doing to create something in your city to get people to love it?” Belle Isle asked. “What can I do to make a city fall in love with itself, as
a business in Alpharetta?” The reason he ran for mayor was to create an active downtown and a sense of community in the city, he said. “I knew there was something to love about Alpharetta,” he said. Avalon has created a corn hole league; the Alpharetta Business Association hosts the annual Brew Moon Festival; brewpub Hop Alley hosts beer pairings with their meals. While they are good events by themselves, taken as a part of the whole in the city is what creates that community, Belle Isle said. “How do we get more people involved?” he asked. “As business owners, you are as
much a part of the city as the citizens.” Belle Isle challenged the audience of business leaders to start thinking about ways they can help improve the city and its community in ways the city government cannot, such as sponsoring a cause or creating an event. He cited the Lantern Parade at the Atlanta Beltline. A citizen-started event, it drew 20,000 revelers in 2014. “That was not started by a government. It was started by residents. Can a single event cause people to fall in love with a city?” Belle Isle said. “It doesn’t take a lot of people to change a city. You will help us love Alpharetta.”
Alpharetta warns of scam targeting local businesses ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Local businesses may be taken in by a recent scam. Emails notifying Alpharetta area businesses they have won an award from the Alpharetta Award Program appear to be part of a scam designed to get companies to pay for vanity awards and plaques. The emails may be confusing to area businesses who may believe they are related to a recognition program coordinated by the City of Alpharetta. “The Alpharetta Awards Program sounds similar and seems to be capitalizing on an annual recognition program coordinated by the City,” said Samir Abdullahi, Alpharetta’s economic development manager. “Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, we became aware of the other program only when a business owner advised us of an email she had received.” The email from “Alpharetta Awards Program” stated the business owner had been selected for the 2015 Alpharetta Awards. It provided a link to a website for more information that, in turn, lists a telephone number, 888-509-9915, for questions. Not stated in the email is that to receive the award, businesses must
We would never ask a business to pay for us to say thank you.” SAMIR ABDULLAHI, Alpharetta’s economic development manager
pay for a plaque with costs starting at $149.99 and going up from there. By contrast, the city’s annual recognition program comes with no costs or strings attached. “The City of Alpharetta began its awards program three years ago to recognize Alpharetta-based businesses who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields during the year,” said Abdullahi. “It is
an opportunity for us to bring attention to those businesses and express our appreciation for the investments that they have made in Alpharetta and for their efforts to excel. We would never ask a business to pay for us to say thank you.” The city warns “vanity award” programs are not uncommon and provides a few tips to area businesses to protect them from falling victim: 1. Learn everything you can about who is giving the award. If it is coming from an organization you have never before heard of, it is likely a group that just wants your money. 2. If you did not apply for an award or the group cannot tell you how you were nominated, the award is likely not legitimate. 3. Most legitimate awards do not come with costs for the recipient. If there is a cost, look into the organization and the award even more closely. The City has reported the issue to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is investigating similar complaints in other communities. —Jonathan Copsey
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Keep an eye on inventory for market entry points Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” Here are several more micro trends in the housing market and general economy we’ve spotted on our radar. The impact of inventory Real estate is a business of supply and demand. The housing market constantly ebbs and flows between shortage and surplus of inventory. Since January 2014, North Georgia’s real estate market has teetered just on the edge of a balanced market, with an average of five months of available inventory. (A balanced market is considered about eight months.) So how does inventory impact you as a buyer or seller? -- If you’re in the market to purchase a home, less inventory means more competition for the best properties. It’s important to improve your negotiating position by getting preapproved for a mortgage; have
rates are also on the rise. Employment While total non-farm payroll employment is now at 139.7 million, substantially above the pre-recession peak of 138.4 million, full-time nonfarm payroll employment is at just 119.6 million, 2 million below its pre-recession high. As a result, the number of persons working part-time but wanting full-time work now stands at 7 million. And while that’s down from a peak of 9.2 million, it’s substantially above its pre-recession level of 4.8 million. Resale homes There were 73,844 singlefamily detached used and bank-owned properties sold over the past 12 months. Twenty-two percent of these closings were bank-owned sales (one year ago, it was 38 percent). Pre-foreclosure activity has fallen to a 12-year low, resulting in fewer foreclosed homes and additional upward
FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency
your finances in order, and be ready to make a quick, solid offer. Also, know your needs, wants and must-haves. -- If you’re ready to list your home, less inventory means you’re more likely to sell for a price closer to the asking price – but don’t get greedy. Buyers want a fair contract and will likely ask for some concessions. Set realistic, yet reasonable limits if you’re serious about selling. As we leave the winter months behind, existing inventory is likely to decrease, as people prefer not to move over the holidays. Builder inventory will grow steadily. Interest
Residential units closed in 22-county metro Atlanta, year over year as of Sept. 2014 New single-family detached – 12,204 New townhomes – 1,989 New condos – 281 Resale single-family detached – 73,844 Resale condos/townhomes – 12,428 Grand total – 100,744 Residential closing – Up 5 percent year over year Source: MetroStudy 2014
pressure on home prices. November single-family listings (inventory) moved upward by 23 percent year over year to 22,000, its highest level in 24 months, but the supply remains low at 4.5 months. Equilibrium or a normal month’s supply of resale inventory for the region is about seven months. Negative equity continues to decline, and yet a sellers’ market still exists, especially below the $250,000 price points, based on an FML
NewBusinessSpotlight
Making adjustments to your business plan Now that the first quarter is over, are you making adjustments to your business plan? Have you had some disappointments from some of the key initiatives you started in the beginning of the year? Making adjustments to your business plan can help you improve results, take advantage of things that are working well and de-emphasize things that aren’t. A business plan typically includes strategies and tactics to profitably grow your small business. Sometimes you have a perfect strategy, but the tactics you are using to implement it are not producing the best results. Tweaking your tactics to better align with your strategy can help. In some cases, your strategy may be flawed. For example, you may have a
A business plan typically includes strategies and tactics to profitably grow your small business.
DICK JONES
Founder & President Jones Simply Sales
strategy to penetrate a certain industry or specific prospects, and the overall approach just isn’t getting you any traction. Modifying your strategy to account for what you have learned will help improve your potential to be successful. Business plans are like “road maps,” and if you hit a “detour” you need to be prepared to take a different road. There are many examples of companies who had a great product or service that just wasn’t selling; and when they
adjusted their business plan, it sold like hot cakes. Periodically making adjustments to your business plan will not only help you be more successful, it is essential to continually making improvements in running your small business.
MetroStudy. Housing, a regional view There were 11,000 annual single-family housing starts in the North Atlanta market in 2014, up 12 percent from 2013 when annual starts were 9,800. Nearly three-quarters of all starts in the region occurred in North Atlanta. Single-family annual closings reached 9,600 units at the end of 2014, up 21 percent from the annual 2013 figure of 7,584.
Countryside Pet Estates Business: Countryside Pet Estates Opened: Dec. 19, 2014 Owner: Peg Engleka What: Premier dog and cat boarding, day care, grooming and training facility. Hours: Monday through Friday
from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: 2540 Hopewell Road, Milton, Ga. 30004 Phone: 770-864-1020 Website: http://www.countrysidepetestates.com
Find your paper online at issuu.com/appen-inc History lesson
hold Courthouse to donated American artifacts Society by the Historical ► PAGE 4
| forsythherald.com August 28, 2013
Legionnaires
Post See this year's Auxiliary 307 Legion and members ► PAGE 11
Ssssnake bites on the rise bitten Area pets being at alarming rates ► PAGE 7
Real Estate Report
Special section ► PAGE 16
'We own the mistakes'
Schools take blame for jam ► PAGE 4
Good samaritans
Residents open hearts, homes ► PAGE 6
New Birmingham Cross raised
Symbol of welcome for congregation ► PAGE 10
Johns Creek Herald
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ley Forsyth mulls Cauon Creek sewer opti
Milton Creek Herald,
closed ng facility Fulton Looking at reopeni State law prohib-
sewerage its pumping HURD to By HATCHER from one basin Etowah hatcher@nor thfulton.com another. The most of Basin serves Ga. – but JOHNS CREEK, needs to Forsyth County,n porForsyth County the southeaster capacity in Johns add sewerage and tion is in the southeast Forsyth, Creek Basin. owns County one option the looking The county is as Commission 300 acres known Cauley AMOS at is reopening and the Threatt property. opCreek Creek Reclamation as an As for the Cauley Reuse Facility it was too early building a facility tion, Amos said alternative to to say anything. the process of from scratch. in still Reclamation “We’re Cauley Creek plants to see million-gallonscomparing sewer Facility is a 5 us best,” Amos facility that had in which will suit per-day (mgd) discuss that County in east said. “We will served Fulton but we haven’t Last fall, Fulton the near future, on Cauley Johns Creek. contract with made any decision bought out its saying Fulton’s Creek.” focus, Cauley Creek, into Environmen As plans come own Johns Creek be cheaper county will have would Amos said the tal Campus discussions” in the long “full and open and as effective Creek and ALDO NAHED/STAFF with both Johnsabout Cauley run. to expand its Fulton County Forsyth needs at Fowler. in the Shakerag enjoys skating Creek. sewer capacity has been not at that point Elementary student, we’re it Creek “But because a Vickery area, growth area. Samuel Cushman, yet,” he said. er tapped as a are Forsyth Commission Forsyth officials on represents commenting Brian Tam, whosaid it is just are guarded about negotiations Shakerag, also about where the idea since bids for building too soon to talk ongoing and ons-perForsyth is at. a new 2.5 million-gall situation. opened only “It’s a delicate is a numday facility werecounty has $27 there to Somewhere, last week. The sense for us for construcber that makes to say we are million budgeted facility. do this. It’s fair tion of the ShakeragChairby renowned options includwas designed Hollyday, of assessing our Forsyth County rmed the Tam said. – Fowler confi architect Wally in 2008 met ing Cauley Creek,” CUMMING, Ga. are-foot man Pete Amos is in a good Cauley California, who “Forsyth County look at these has talked with is still skaters Park’s 23,000-squ draw county to county can but it with about 40 final design position. We we have budskate park continues CEO Ron Green, the . to help craft bids for which million. And enthusiasts. who very much preliminaryour opfor the park. to skaters, geted up to $27Cauley Creek. For Mark Cushman, “We are evaluatingare still he was at In addition now, we a we can look had skated when have joined tions. Right need to keep a great opbids we have other enthusiasts and BMX So all of them younger, it was comparing the new plant to hang out with the 6 in. Stunt scooters the numerALDO NAHED/STAFF portunity to received for 10, and SEWER, Page that basin,” See now share of Samuel, bikers needs Cumming, sons, of two serve the Conor McKeon, a place ous ramps. Benjamin, 7. are really said Amos. —Aldo Nahed said it’s nice to have “The lights US TO ARRANGE said. “You to BMX. HERE NOW! CONTACT good,” Cushman on page 24 A TEST DRIVE TODAY dark.” More photos can stay until skate park The county’s
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February 5, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 9, No. 6
Cities grapple with gridlock, snow
Frustrated’ crews respond to clogged traffic
Brrr! cold weather
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A first for students to stay home ► PAGE 6
Star principal resigns Cites ‘poor decisions’ ► PAGE 24
Milton Creek Herald,
inessPost.co m
No joking around
rise Real estate shows growth north of Atlanta. PAGE 16 – 17
igns Figueroa res .1 effective Feb Georgia
Volume I, Issue 3 • Part of Appen Media Group • Cherokee • Cobb • Forsyth • Fulton • Gwinnett • Hall
South relocating to
hold a place in our hearts. We are relocathis ing to South he will resign Feb. 1. Georgia, Post 4 seat effectivehe said, “I closer to In a statement citizens for our my sales wish to thank serve seven to territory in allowing me as a City Georgia and FIGUEROA wonderful years in Johns Florida. The Council memberKaren and I move will alCreek. My wife daughters in both markets our low me to be raised have time on the by wonderand spend less time at home here, surrounded supported by road and more ful friends and we could with my family.” the finest schools Page 4 imagine. and all it See COUNCIL, “Johns Creek, forever will encompasses,
Ga. – Johns JOHNS CREEK, Ivan Creek City Councilman Jan. 9 Figueroa announced City Council
Healthy workers
Alpharetta company own garden. PAGE grows 13
Building a legacy
Zachary Henderson looks back at career. PAGE 21
lls JC Council mu back 1 mil tax roll reduction urges Raffensperger windfall sales tax made up with
Mattress." "Once upon a the cast from rehearses with as Winnifred Simone Bosch
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Six Flags Over Georgia to debut new coaster. PAGE 27
Johns Revue & News, | 73,500 circulation
By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. wanted to know what – If you ever looked like with every Atlanta’s roads resident driving on them, Tuesday, Jan. 28 should give a glimpse. Schools, businesses and governments all shut same time, turning down about the workers out onto the streets at the same time. Variously called “Snowmageddon ,” “Snowpocalypse,” or “SnOMG,” local governments were quickly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of motorists on the road and the worsening conditions throughout the day. A would normally take commute that 20 minutes turned into a 10-, 14- or 20-hour drive. Alpharetta had 50 Department employeesPublic Works begin salting the roads as the snow began on Tuesday, said Public Works Director Pete Sewczwicz. Over the course of Tuesday and the following day, Sewczwicz said hundreds of tons of sand and salt were put down by workers working 12-hour shifts. Unfortunately, as traffic grew, so did Above, in Milton, the problems. Hopewell was like so many others Road “We had all our trucks – clogged with traffic and abandoned ready to go,” he said. “Our problem vehicles. is we couldn’t get anywhere once we treated The worst intersectionsit once.” and bridges were hit first, however, day as the salt trucks with the slugbegan using gish lines of traffi police cruisers as c, the salt trucks escorts to move could not get to the traffic aside. hot spots quickly; nor could they return Conditions became to those already treated. The trucks cal police departments so bad, lobecame as stuck as the traffic. help stranded motoristsrefused to or come to It’s a problem a frustrated fender-benders. Sewczwicz said was unavoidable. “People didn’t know “When cars are backed turn,” said Lisa Holland,where to up and with the you cannot get your Roswell Police Department. vehicles there to treat roads again,” 911 call centers were he said, “and where busy with people are stopped endless calls for help in and you get ice. There’s snow and rain, “We had to save our police. nothing we can do resources with that. We were for the most serious frustrated. Because calls,” Holland of the saturation said. “In 30 years, of traffic, we couldn’t I’ve never seen do more.” anything like this.” A solution showed itself later in the Fulton County Schools See GRIDLOCK, Page let out just as the snow 4 on buses and in classrooms began, leaving students LOU HABLAS due to heavy traffic. stranded
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HURD By HATCHER hatcher@nor thfulton.com GA. – City JOHNS CREEK, RaffensBrad Councilmen Figueroa perger and Ivan Year with a started the New city millage the call to reduce STEWART Fellow councilGER rate by 1 mill. RAFFENSPER they were willmembers said proposal, but based on the tax it will receive ing to study numbers. effect such a wanted see what on the city’s 2010 Censusit is time to have “I believe would move rate. The reduce the millage and budget. cited the fund is flush, Raffensperger city reserve windfall the 9 $1.85 million beginning in See TAX, Page will experience sales 2014 from additional
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18 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
BusinessBriefs
TECH »
PEOPLE »
Technology group honors Agilysys
Molinari new executive for CBIZ Insurance Services
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Technology Association of Georgia has named Agilysys as one of its Top 40 Innovative Technology Companies in Georgia. The Top 40 recognizes Georgia-based technology companies for their innovation, financial impact and efforts at spreading awareness of Georgia’s technology initiatives throughout the United States and globally. This year’s finalists were selected from more than 120 applicants. Agilysys is a developer and marketer of proprietary enterprise software, services and solutions for the hospitality industry. Companies selected for the Top 40 were showcased at the 2015 Georgia Technology Summit, held March 25 at Cobb Galleria Centre. The event featured presentations from some of the nation’s leading technology influencers.
RelayHealth unveils collections system upgrade ALPHARETTA, Ga. — RelayHealth Financial has released a new version of its RelayAccount software that helps providers efficiently increase patient collections. The online patient billing solution lets providers see what each family or individual owes at the point of service. It then enables them to collect payment or set up a recurring payment plan. Company officials said patients benefit from 24/7 access to their account status and convenient online payment. The resulting clarity around each patient’s financial obligations enables hospitals to accelerate collections, boost patient satisfaction with the payment process and minimize bad debt. Using RelayAccount with a patient financial advocacy program allowed Lawrenceville-based Gwinnett Medical Center to collect online patient payments of $45 million over five years, realize a 38 percent compound annual growth rate for online payments over four years and significantly reduce call center volume. “At-a-glance access to account status puts us in a much better position to help patients navigate the new world of high-deductible plans, which helps us improve our accounts receivable,” said Travis Mendenhall, senior systems analyst, Gwinnett Medical Center.
BUSINESS COMPUTER PROBLEMS?
ATLANTA – Chris Molinari has been hired as a sales producer for the Southeast region of CBIZ Insurance Services Inc. Molinari has more than 26 years of experience in property and casualty insurance. He began his career at Chubb and Son Inc., where he worked for more than 17 years, based out of several locaMOLINARI tions. He then moved to Fireman’s Fund, Atlanta, for four years. In these jobs, he held sales executive and various management positions. More recently, he successfully developed two Atlanta agency startup operations – as director of property and casualty insurance at Signature FD, then as managing director at Taylor & Taylor LLC. In his new position, Molinari’s responsibilities include insurance carrier relationships and newclient development for CBIZ’s Southeast region. Molinari works out of the Atlanta office of CBIZ Insurance Services and reports through the CBIZMeridian office in Alpharetta.
Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com and breakfast at the Forsyth Conference Center in Cumming, where it awarded their Million Dollar Club members and several other milestone awards as well. Kimberly Yates/Yates Estates received top honors. With over $30 million in sales volume, they received Top Team Award for the highest volume in sales. Her team includes Steve Yates and administrative assistant Robin Andrews. The recipient of the Top Individual Award was presented to Jason Gillis as he achieved sales production levels over $16 million. Top Commercial Agent was awarded to Dan Thornton. The Rookie of the Year Award went to Heather Beyer for her outstanding production as a first year real estate agent. Amanda Staines received the Quality Service Award with a 99.27 percent customer satisfaction scoring in 2014.
GROWTH »
Turf Masters announces largest acquisition to date ROSWELL, Ga. – Lawn and pest control company Turf Masters has acquired Dorsey Services, a major lawn care, tree and shrub and pest service company. The transaction is the largest investment made by Turf Masters, and it expands the company’s services throughout central Georgia. With this acquisition, as well as expansion markets completed in 2013 and 2014, the lawn care business now has nine company-owned operations in four Southern states: Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Planet Fitness opens first Roswell club
Century 21 Results Realty Services awards 2014 FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Century 21 Results Realty Services held its annual kick off meeting
ROSWELL, Ga. – Planet Fitness recently celebrated the grand opening of its first club in Roswell, located at 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 840. With more than 950 locations nationwide, Planet Fitness offers state-of-the-art cardio machines and strength equipment, circuit training, fully equipped locker rooms with day lockers and showers, numerous flat-screen televisions, HydroMassage beds, massage chairs, tanning and total body enhancement booths. The club is open and staffed 24 hours from Monday at midnight through Friday at 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
NewBusinessSpotlight
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Smallcakes Alpharetta grand opening Business: Smallcakes of Alpharetta Opened: January 2015 Owners: Marie and Jesus Anthony Brown What: For many years, we have wanted to start a business. When we came across the Smallcakes franchise, it seemed like the perfect fit for our family. It wasn’t until a year later that we decided to take the plunge. We are a cupcakery, with over 100 recipes baked throughout the year. We have 12 signature flavors baked daily, plus a variety of specialty flavors, cookie sandwiches and soon-to-be-released cupcake
milkshakes. Smallcakes cupcakes has been featured on three seasons of “Cupcake Wars,” on ABC’s “The View” and in 2012 was selected in USA Today’s Top 10 Places to Bite into a Gourmet Cupcake. Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday; noon to 7 p.m., Sunday Location: 4055 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta Phone: 470-545-2051 Website: smallcakesalpharettabakery.com
CALENDAR
EDITOR’S PICKS
Submit your event online at forsythherald.com
Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 19
Send
me your event...
GOOD FRIDAY
Passion with special guest the Morehouse College Glee Club at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, 2200 Encore Parkway in Alpharetta. Friday, April 3 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. Visit goodfridayatlanta.com. Please note that covered seating sold out.
EVENTS:
EGG HUNT
Milton hosts its first Community Egg Hunt with food trucks and displays from Milton police and fire departments at Friendship Community Park, 12785 Birmingham Highway in Milton. Saturday, April 4 at 10 a.m. This event is free.
Where: Autrey Mill Preserve and Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek When: Saturday, April 4 at 7 p.m. Cost: $5 Web: autreymill.org
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
What: In celebration of World Autism Awareness Day, The Autism Society of Georgia will have live music and light 1,410 luminaries in the park, each representing one child or adult in Roswell with autism. Where: Elizabeth Way in Roswell When: Thursday, April 2 Hours: 7 to 10 p.m.
KINDERGARTEN SNEAK PEEK What: Upcoming kindergarten students and their parents can take a tour, see a classroom, hop a bus and visit the cafeteria. Where: Crabapple Crossing Elementary School, 12775 Birmingham Highway in Milton When: Friday, April 3 Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Info: crabapplecrossing.org
TASTE OF FORSYTH
Easter egg hunt, food, live music, “touch a truck” and more at Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road. Saturday, April 4. Samples will be $1 to $4. Visit cummingfair.net for more info.
noodle dishes and introduce you to the wide variety of noodles typically found in Asian markets and the differences between them. Where: Sur la Table, 1000 North Point Circle Suite 1082 in Alpharetta When: Thursday, April 2 Hours: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $69 Web: surlatable.com
Calendar Editor calendar@appenmediagroup.com
Submit your event to northfulton. com or email with photo to calendar@northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.
UPCOMING HIGH SCHOOL THEATER • You Can't Take it with You April 30, May 1, and May 2, 2015 - 7pm Cambridge Theatre
CENTENNIAL
BACK TO YOUR ROOTS FARM FAIR
What: A full day of greenthumb; farm activities that will get you ‘back to earth’ to enjoy the sunshine. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell When: Saturday, April 4 Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: Stock the North Fulton Community Charities food pantry and be entered to win Spring Fun Giveaway. Web: chattnaturecenter.org
4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta When: Saturday, April 4 Hours: 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Cost: $44 Web: thevelvetnote.com
COUPLE’S GRILLING
What: Join Chef John Wilson for western rubbed and mopped flank steak, grilled corn, green beans and grape tomato salad, baked potato cheese pockets and “grilled chutney fruit kabobs. Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive in Roswell When: Tuesday, April 7 Hours: 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Cost: $50 per person Info: Reservations required, call 770-640-3855
MUSIC: WALLACE RONEY What: Join Autrey Mill Nature Preserve for a family-oriented nature hike.
The American Legion Post 201 will have 1500 eggs hidden around the park area and a walk of memories at the American Legion, 201 Wills Road in Alpharetta. Saturday, April 4 at 12 p.m. Ages 1 through 10
SHANNON WEAVER
CAMBRIDGE
FOOD:
GUIDED HIKE
AMERICAN LEGION EGG HUNT
ASIAN NOODLE FAVORITES
What: A chef instructor will demonstrate several amazing
Who: Wallace Roney holds the distinction of being the only trumpet player Miles Davis ever personally mentored. Where: The Velvet Note,
RACES AND BENEFITS:
• Senor Directed One Acts - April 22-25, 2014 • Senor Directed Dessert Theatre - May 1st, 2014
KINGS RIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL • Mary Poppins the Musical Thursday, April 23 – 25, at 7:00 PM
MILTON:
RACE TO CHANGE DESTINIES What: 5K benefiting RCCG outreaches, free clinics, clothing drives, homeless shelters and more. Where: RCCG King’s Court Chapel, 9435 Willeo Road in Roswell. When: Saturday, April 4 at 8 a.m. Cost: $25 Web: runsignup.com
• Cirque Avontuur April 30, May 1, 2, 7, 8 & 9 at 7:30pm May 2 & 9 at 2pm Tickets Available Online April 3 • Senior-Directed One Acts May 13 & 14
NORTHVIEW • Spring Musical: Mary Poppins May 1-2, 2015 at 7pm Dessert Theatre
20 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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Termites 101: What every homebuyer should know this spring It’s a cruel coincidence that the spring’s real-estate buying season corresponds with another far less pleasant one - termite swarming season. When eager homebuyers emerge from winter hibernation to look for their dream homes, winged termites emerge, too, and swarms of them go in search of new places to establish their colonies. “Termites cause about $5 billion in property damage every year - damage that typically isn’t covered by homeowners’ insurance policies,” says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). “In spring, swarms emerge in every state except Alaska. Potential homebuyers need to be aware of the risks associated with termite damage, and of the importance of having any home they’re considering inspected for termites and other wood-destroying organisms.” More than half of Americans (52 percent) have never had their homes inspected for termites, according to an NPMA survey. Yet 38 percent worry about discovering termites in their homes and 33 percent have had termite damage or know someone who has, the survey found.
If you’ll be buying (or selling) a home this spring, the NPMA offers some valuable termite information: • The average homebuyer and homeowner might have difficulty spotting the evidence of a termite infestation. Termites chew through wood, flooring and other materials behind-thescenes, so it can take years before the signs of an infestation are visible to the untrained eye. An inspection by a licensed pest professional is the best way to detect an infestation of wood-destroying organisms (WDOs) - especially if you live in a termiteprone area of the country. • A WDO inspection is different from a simple structural inspection. Buyers may assume that the person who does the pre-purchase home inspection will look for termites while assessing the condition of the home’s physical structure and systems. While some inspectors might spot signs of termite damage, others will not. Buyers should be sure to have their prospective home inspected by a licensed pest professional. The inspection will last about an hour, and the specialist will probe the home from top to bottom
to look for telltale signs of termite damage. After the inspection is over, the specialist will report to the buyers what he or she has found, and an estimate of how much it might cost to remediate any termite damage he or she has discovered. • Different states have varying laws about termite inspections. Some may require one before a home can be sold, while others do not. Check with your realtor about the laws in your state, and keep in mind that many lenders will require a pest inspection be done in addition to a structural inspection - especially if the home you are buying is in a termite-prone area. • Termite detection, remediation and control are not do-it-yourself tasks. If an inspector finds signs of a termite infestation and damage, you’ll need professionals to remedy
the problem. Buyers who discover problems before the sale is final will be better able to negotiate with the seller to take care of the problem. In some states, the law may not allow the sale to be finalized until the damage is addressed, and lenders may refuse to finalize a mortgage for a home with unresolved termite issues. If the termite inspection shows your new home is pest-free, congratulations! After the sale is finalized, be sure to take steps to protect your home from termites going forward, including having the home inspected for termites at least once every three years, and every year if you live in an area prone to termite infestations. To learn more about termite prevention or to find a licensed pest professional in your area, visit www.pestworld.org, the education website of the NPMA. Harry Norman Realtors®, Forsyth/ Lake Lanier Office 1664 Market Place Blvd. Cumming, GA 30041 Used with permission, Brandpoint, 2015.
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In the Atlanta division, on accepted purchase agreements on homes that are signed between January 1, 2015 and January 31, 2015 are eligible to receive $15,000 in Flex Cash; can be used towards MyStyle® Design Center Options and/or closing costs when using RMC Mortgage® and/or lot premiums, finished basement, etc. Incentive offer does not apply to contracts written prior to January 1, 2015. The following communities are excluded from the $15,000 incentive, Bethany Crossing, Bridleton, ManorView and Marketplace Commons. Individual promotions may vary by community. Certain included features may not be available on all plans. Value of package, and products, may vary by community and plan. Homes already under contract prior to this offer are not eligible. Plus for New to-be built homes, buyer eligible to receive up to $5,000 toward closing costs. Individual incentives may vary by community. Closing cost assistance available from Ryland Homes to those financing through RMC Mortgage® Corporation and closing with a closing attorney selected by Ryland. Amount of closing cost assistance may vary by product and community, and is subject to applicable contribution limitations. For all financing promotions, see a RMC Mortgage® Corporation Loan Officer for details. RMC Mortgage® Corporation is located at 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30022 and is a Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee, license number 24225 and NMLS number 203897. Buyers also eligible to receive Waived 1% Origination Fee through RMC Mortgage®; average value of $4,000 which is based on a $400,000 loan amount. The waived origination fee through RMC Mortgage® Corporation is subject to cancellation or change without notice. Buyers must make a loan application by January 31, 2014 with RMC Mortgage® Corporation (NMLS# 203897) a Georgia Residential Mortgage Lender Licensee #24225. *Buyers must also close with RMC Mortgage® Corporation. Please contact your RMC Mortgage® Corporation Representative for exact quotes. Prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Ryland reserves the right to modify or cancel these offers at any time. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Offer may not be combined with any other promotion or incentives. Information shown believed to be accurate but not warranted. See a Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. © 2015 The Ryland Group, Inc.
Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section
April 1, 2015 21
Buyers: Get a Jump Start in the Spring Market By Bill Rawlings Vice President/Managing Broker Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
5 quick ways to upgrade your home for resale (NAPSI)—Whether you’re considering cashing in on your equity, downsizing, trading up, moving for a change of scenery or relocating for better prospects, a few smart investments and improvements can help your home stand out from the competition so you get top dollar. Even if you’re not planning on moving anytime soon, these strategies can maximize your home’s value and increase its marketability: • Sprucing up the exterior. If you think you’ll have a few years before you move, work on your landscaping now to give plants time to mature. Look for easy-care perennials such as hostas, which multiply on their own. If you have less time, you can still achieve a quick makeover by power washing paths and siding, painting or upgrading your front door and keeping the lawn watered and weeded. • Removing eyesores inside. Some minor adjustments can help buyers recognize what’s great about your home. Swap outdated fixtures, remove wallpaper and give everything a deep clean. Replacements don’t have to be top of the line; they just need to eliminate hangups for potential buyers. • Improving the kitchen—to a point. You probably won’t re-
coup the cost of a full kitchen renovation but smaller projects such as upgrading appliances and painting or refinishing cabinets can modernize the space. • Refreshing rooms with neutral paint. This is a timehonored tip for a reason. While seeing your favorite bold hues on the walls makes you happy, potential buyers may not agree. A fresh coat of neutral paint can help them envision their own belongings in the space. • Focusing on energy efficiency. The right energy-smart upgrades can assure buyers they’re seeing an efficient home where utility bills can be minimized. Adding insulation to the attic and walls can make a dramatic improvement in many homes. Consider the windows as well. Adding a heatrejecting window film such as 3M Sun Control Window Film can reduce cooling costs and typically does not change the windows’ appearance. Since the window film can reject up to 99 percent of UV rays, it can protect the investment you made in your hardwood floors, rugs, window treatments, furniture and artwork. Learn More: For further facts, visit www.3M.com/homeimprovement.
Spring officially started on March 20, but the spring market truly started back in February, even as we nervously RAWLINGS crossed our fingers to ward off a repeat of Snow Jam 2014! Spring and early summer are traditionally the busiest times of the year for residential real estate. With winter behind us, buyers and sellers alike are eager to see what the spring market holds. As a buyer, you and your REALTOR® may face intense competition and rising prices as you set out to find the home of your dreams. Now that you have put away your winter sweaters, take the time to prepare for the home-buying process so that you have an immediate advantage over other homebuyers. By taking these steps in advance, you may afford yourself the ability to act quickly and decisively when you find the house you want to call home. Before you begin the search: • Find your REALTOR®. You need an experienced partner with extensive knowledge of the residential real estate market. Identifying the right agent who is best
suited to work with you requires some research. Ask your friends for references, look up the recommendations and interview three or four agents. Navigating the ins and outs of the homebuying process is not always smooth sailing, so you want to ensure you identify the agent who you believe is best suited to assist with your needs. • Have your loan preapproved. This process may take a little time, but if you take care of it up front, you will have the advantage of knowing exactly how much the bank will loan you, and it will also show sellers you are truly ready to buy when you submit an offer. • Consider the down payment process. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, first-time buyers typically put down 6 percent. More than 24 percent of first-time buyers down payment are funded by gifts from relatives or friends. If this is not an option for you, research loan programs that better suit your needs. Be careful to save for closing costs, which often run anywhere from 2-7 percent of the purchase price. • Ready, set, GO! With the hot spring and summer markets, your agent is going to alert you about homes matching your criteria the second they are listed. If it has most of your ‘must-haves,’ head over to the home as soon
as your agent can arrange a showing. If you love it, be prepared to make an offer. • Keep an open mind. If the home meets your biggest requirements – school district, proximity to work and shopping, a desirable neighborhood- but you are not totally in love, what changes could be made to make the home work? Are they easy or difficult? Remember, you can change the floors, carpet and paint colors. Try and envision what the home will look like when it has your touch. • Listen to the advice of your REALTOR®. He or she will know how to make your offer shine in a multiple offer situation. Together, you can determine the best course of action if you and several other potential buyers make an offer. At Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, we are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional experience throughout the buying and selling process. If I can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Article adapted from Realty Times.
22 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Dogs of the week: Emma and Carley
Cat of the week: Rafiki FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — This good looking guy is Rafiki. He’s a playful tabby and white mix that would love to be a part of someone’s home. Rafiki was rescued from a kill shelter and has been happily settling into The Human Society’s cat room ever since. He can’t wait for his turn to be
adopted. He gets along well with kids and other kitties. Fill out an adoption application on Rafiki or any of the pets at www.forsythpets.org. Or visit them at the adoption center 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are Monday through Friday noon to 5 p.m. —Kathleen Sturgeon
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Humane Society of Forsyth County is looking for an owner with a huge heart to come adopt these two wonderful ladies, Emma and Carley. They came in together and are very attached to one another. It is a beautiful thing watching Emma and Carley making the most of their adjustment to shelter life. They love each other and look out for each other. Emma is four years and four months and is a lab/mastiff. Carley is four years and 11 months, she is a shepherd boxer. If they could find a home together, they would be smiling from ear to ear, and so would their new owners. Fill out an adoption application online at www.forsythpets.org. Or visit them at the adoption center 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are Monday through Friday noon to 5 p.m. —Kathleen Sturgeon
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 23
UPCOMING EVENTS Business Academy ”Alpharetta Business Class”
ALPHARETTA CHAMBER’S
BUSINESS ACADEMY Various teams came out for the parade at Central Park.
PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
Date: April 2 Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Location: Alpharetta City Hall 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta
Speed Networking
Date: April 20 Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Location: Twisted Taco Windward 5815 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta
Golf Networking League
Opens: Continued from Page 1 didn’t have a park like this and voters were so excited to get one, Mills said. After they heard what the commissioners wanted to do, they got involved to make sure it remained a park. “We had no rectangle fields in the county and no programs for soccer,” Mills said. “We got enough soccer kids to line up and make a circle around the administration building for the commission meeting that night. Now I’m a commissioner and I don’t know how much I’d like that now, but it was really powerful then. We stopped it and got Central Park.” Apart from the tough beginning, Mills said it also means a lot to her to have a park like this because she coached youth sports for over 20 years. “As hectic as it is for you parents, these are the best days of your life,” Mills said. “Coaching my girls and going to the games are memories I’ll remember, because those are the best days of your life
Date: April 29 Time: 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. Location: Alpharetta Athletic Club (East Course) From left, Greg Blitz, Gary Cooper, Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills and Jason LeBel celebrate Central Park opening for the season. — getting to be out here and enjoy life with your kids.” Mills also gave advice to the coaches at the ceremony. “I encourage each of you coaches to give love so at the end of the season those children won’t be thinking about just loving you, but they will turn to their parents and say ‘my coach loved me so much,’” Mills said. “That’s
what it’s all about. It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about teaching them life skills. That’s what makes youth sports so instrumental in a kid’s life. Because it’s life lessons and being able to teach kids about hard work, determination, loyalty and all the things that matter – and they carry it with them the rest of their lives.”
Visit www.AlpharettaChamber.com and sign up today!
SCHOOLS
24 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
DEATH NOTICES Sandra Biggio, 71, of Alpharetta, passed away March 16, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Joel Burnett, 79, of Cumming, passed away March 24, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Janice Clifton, 95, of Cumming, passed away March 20, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Doris Wheeler Corn, 90, of Forsyth County, passed away March 21, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Gerald Coughlin, of Alpharetta, passed away March 13, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Thomas Dannemiller, Sr., of Milton, passed away March 21, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Robert Earl Greer, 72, of Cumming, passed away March 23, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Jared Haden of Roswell, GA passed away on March 17, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Linda Halpin, of Roswell, passed away March 23, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Nagwa Hanna, of Alexandria, Egypt, passed away March 16, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Betty Heard, 80, of Cumming, passed away March 18, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Bruce Howard, of Alpharetta, passed away March 23, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Scott Kershaw, of Milton, passed away March 22, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Dan Loposer, of Roswell, passed away March 20, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Kenneth Ludwig, 67, of Cumming, passed away March 17, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Richard Mace, 77, of Roswell, passed away March 17 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Katie Lee Martin, 83, of Cumming, passed away March 23, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Nikolas Negron, of Milton, passed away March 18, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Joseph Olander, 76, of Johns Creek, passed away March 24, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Dina Owens, of Alpharetta, passed away March 16, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Otis Ray, 87, of Cumming, passed away March 18, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. David Shortnacy, 75, of Forsyth County, passed away March 19, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Ngoc Tran, of Alpharetta, passed away March 17, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
CMES Robotics team competes at World Championship CUMMING, Ga. — The Coal Mountain Elementary School VEX IQ Robotics team will compete at the 2015 World Championship VEX IQ competition in Louisville, Ky. April 15-18. The team is one of 100 teams nationwide to
be invited to compete. The CMES team recently competed at the Georgia State VEX IQ championship. The CMES team is comprised of 12 students. -Joe Parker
Boosterthon running at Shiloh Point FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Shiloh Point Elementary School will host a Boosterthon Fun Run event April 2. The Boosterthon Fun Run is a nine-day program that helps local schools fundraise for education while inspiring students to live healthy, character-filled lives. “Boosterthon exists to
strengthen schools,” said Chris Carneal, Boosterthon’s founder and president. “As a parent, I’ve seen how important community is in my children’s lives. That’s why we’re challenging students to build community in their schools and neighborhoods.” Instead of selling a product, students gather pledges from friends and family for laps they
Blotter: Continued from Page 3 woman said the puppies escaped while she was getting gas at a gas station. Inside the woman’s house, the worker reportedly noticed there was only one dog bowl, when the woman reportedly would have three dogs in her house. He asked the woman’s daughter how she liked the two puppies but the daughter said she didn’t know about any puppies. The puppies’ whereabouts remain unknown.
Driver arrested for impairment after leading police in chase FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 49-year-old
will run at the Boosterthon. Every student is invited to the Boosterthon Fun Run, whether they participate financially or not. Also, when parents register on funrun.com, their student receives a free gift. For more information, visit www.boosterthon.com. –Shannon Weaver
woman was charged with failure to maintain lane, fleeing or attempting to elude and DUI after an accident occurred in North Forsyth High School’s main office parking lot March 20. When an officer arrived, the suspected driver of the vehicle sped away and reportedly caused a brief pursuit of the car. When she finally pulled over, the officer noticed the driver seemed to be impaired by drugs. The officer requested the woman be taken to the hospital for medical evaluation. The woman was placed under arrest and allegedly explained to the officer due to the medications she was taking, she should not have been driving. She reportedly told officers she was seeing double and was dizzy, but she was sorry for the incident and didn’t realize all of what occurred. After being medically cleared, she was transported to the Forsyth County Detention Center.
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Forsyth Herald | April 1, 2015 | 25 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Honors: Continued from Page 5 bravery and commitment to public safety, their actions will not be forgotten.” The resolution was brought before the Assembly by Representative Kevin Tanner and Williams. Sheriff Duane K. Piper and Chief Deputy Michael Giordano will join fourteen deputies, including Deputy Daniel Rush, who was shot by Marx in the leg during the shooting. Forsyth County Communications Director Pat Giordano joined Communications Officer Ginger Adams in attendance as well. The following officers are being honored in this resolution are Deputy Daniel Rush, Deputy Bobby Francis, Deputy Brian Francis, Deputy Brian Chatham, Lieutenant Matt Allen, Corporal Matt Scott, Deputy Pat Sternik, Deputy James White, Deputy Brian Dublin, Deputy Bill Keeton, Deputy William Mouret, Deputy Robin Regan, Lieutenant Sebastian Strano, Sergeant Kenny Hughes and Lieutenant James Poe. —Kathleen Sturgeon
Car show raises $2,000 for Relay for Life By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Car aficionados and people who just wanted to support the fight against cancer came out to 1120 Dahlonega Highway off Highway 9 March 21 for a car show benefiting Relay for Life. Lynn Gilder, area manager for the food and nutrition services department of Forsyth County Schools, organized the event with her husband, Ronnie. Food and Nutrition Services joined the Forsyth County School Board of Education Relay for Life team, Gilder said, and this year’s event had a big turnout. “My husband I are antique car owners and we participate in benefit car shows and cruise in all the time,” Gilder said. Gilder said she came up with the idea for a Relay for Life car show when her workplace started a Relay for Life team in September 2009. Relay for Life is a fundraiser by the American Cancer Society where communities hold events to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost and raise money to fight cancer.
About 98 cars were entered into the show this year. “Our team was meeting and going over fundraiser ideas, and I mentioned to the team about doing a car show and they liked the idea,” Gilder said. “I started the planning stages and our first car show was in March 2010.” About 98 cars and trucks
entered this year, with each paying a $20 vehicle donation toward the American Cancer Society. Some of the cars are from the local Cumming area, but other entries came from surrounding areas like Gainesville, Dawsonville and Dahlonega, Gilder said.
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“This event started with 60 antique cars and trucks participating, to 98 cars this year,” Gilder said. “The car show is known throughout the community and is looked forward to each year.” In total, the show raised $2,668.
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28 | April 1, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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