Forsyth Herald, April 22, 2015

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Empty Nest

Sponsored section ►►PAGE 24

Citizens discuss Campground Rd. rezone Potential new neighborhood raises concerns ►►PAGE 4

Trains rolling up 400?

MARTA looks for input on extending service ►►PAGE 6

Salute the troops

Honor Air program celebrates veterans ►►PAGE 26

April 22, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 17

Appen Media ‘Best of the Best’ at AFCP awards By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com

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1: Our editorial staff from left Jonathan Copsey, Kathleen Sturgeon, Hatcher Hurd and Shannon Weaver. 2: Sales team members Mike Dorman and Wendy Goddard. 3: From left production team members David Brown, A.J. McNaughton and general manager Hans Appen. 4: Sales team members Abby Breaux, Regan Schoch and Paige Roman.

SAVANNAH, Ga. – For the second year in a row, Appen Media Group returned from its annual Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) Conference April 8-11 laden with awards including “Best of the Best” for highest number of individual awards. This year’s conference at Savannah’s Marriott Riverfront saw staff winning honors for writing/commentary, design, photography and ad design. There were 72 national award categories in all with 1,250 submissions to the judges. Appen Media took home 28 awards, including Best of the Best and 12 first place awards. That was almost 17 percent of all firsts awarded. “The quality of the graphics and editorial content in our member publications continues to raise the bar every year as indicated in our Best of the Best Awards Competition,” said AFCP Executive Director Loren Colburn. “Appen Media continues to lead the charge when it comes to maintaining a serious focus on quality. “Their impressive domination in this year’s competition demonstrates truly the Best of the Best

See BEST, Page 14

Forsyth Central gets STEM certified By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — The acronym STEM may stand for science, technology, engineering and math, but to a group of students at Forsyth Central High School, it means so much more. On April 14, FCHS was officially certified by State School Superintendent Richard Woods for its STEM program, making it the sixth STEM high school

in the state. This certification is something the senior STEM students are proud of, especially because they’re the first graduating class to go all four years through the program. “In the 2010-2011 school year, we sat around a conference table and talked about this idea of STEM,” said Assistant Principal Kim Head. “In about six months, we were breaking ground. That summer we went through a

renovation and in the 20112012 school year, we began the FCHS STEM Academy. These 21 graduates will have been with us all four years through the program and we’re proud of what they’ve accomplished and what we accomplished together.” A poster in the school’s lobby asks each reader, “What does STEM mean to you?” Head said reading that poster

See STEM, Page 11

KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

From left, Forsyth Central High School Principal Mitch Young, FCHS Assistant Principal Kim Head, Rachel Fratt, Trent Callan, Forsyth Superintendent Jeff Bearden and Georgia Superintendent Richard Woods with the official STEM certification banner.

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2 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Forsyth County Fire Dept. offers junior fire academy

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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.

Man shoots ground, calls police

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CUMMING, Ga. — A man called police April 3 after he shot the ground after feeling threatened. He stated that he needed to report the incident since he knew that he was not allowed to discharge a firearm within the city limits. The homeowner told police a truck pulled up in front of his house and the driver exited the car asking if a woman lived there. The man told him the woman didn’t live there and to leave; but he said the driver kept asking about the woman and saying the woman stole his van. The homeowner said the man started coming toward him, so he pulled out his gun and shot the ground once. He told police he never pointed it at the man, and set it aside after shooting it. The driver then got back into his

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truck and left. When police questioned the truck driver, he told them he was trying to find his van and said the homeowner’s daughter took it. Police were able to locate the van where the woman was arrested.

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

►► Nam Hyung Kim, 40, of Suwanee

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A fight broke out between a man and a woman after their two cars collided along Ga. 400 northbound near McFarland Parkway April 3. The woman told police she was trying to merge over when her car hit the man’s. They pulled off to the median and the man reportedly exited the vehicle and confronted the woman by yelling at her. The woman got out of her car, and the man allegedly started to punch her before a bystander tackled the man. The man told police he approached her car, but never hit her. Two bystanders told police they witnessed the man yelling, hitting and spitting on the woman.

See BLOTTER, Page 28

was arrested on March 31 on Old Atlanta Road in Suwanee for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Alicia I. Thomas, 41, of Smith Cove Way, Cumming, was arrested March 30 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI. ►► Luiz G. Cramer, 61, of Jason Drive, Cumming, was arrested April 2 on Sanders Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

Drug arrests ►► Wayne Keith Davis, 29, of Spot

Road Connector, Cumming, was arrested March 31 on Dawsonville Highway in Gainesville for possession of marijuana and possession of methamphetamines. ►► Tu Ngoc Nguyen, 27, of Sugar Hill was arrested April 3 on Buford Highway in Cumming for possession of marijuana.

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DUIS & DRUGS

DUI arrests

Fight breaks out on Ga. 400

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Fire Department is once again inviting Forsyth County youth interested in learning what it takes to be a firefighter to sign up for a free weeklong summer camp program. The Junior Fire Academy, which is for students entering seventh and eighth grade in August 2015, will be held Monday, July 6 through Friday, July 10. In addition to the week-long program, the Fire Department is also welcoming returning candidates who have participated in a previous camp with the department to take part in a special two-day Junior Fire Academy on Tuesday, June 30, and Wednesday, July 1. Both camp programs are offered free of charge. Those attending the Junior Fire Academy will have the opportunity to experience the different aspects of being a career firefighter. From firefighting to CPR, the campers will have an unforgettable educational experience. “The Forsyth County Fire Department prides itself on be-

ing actively involved in our community, and in engaging our community’s youth through our educational and outreach programs,” said Fire Chief Danny Bowman. “The Junior Fire Academy program continues to be an outstanding way for students to learn what it is like to be a firefighter, and about the many services our firefighters provide to this county every day.” The Junior Fire Academy programs for both new and returning candidates will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Fire Department Headquarters at the Forsyth County Public Safety Complex on Settingdown Road. Campers may be dropped off at the camp location after 8:00 a.m. and must be picked up by 4:00 p.m. Those interested in attending either Junior Fire Academy must submit a completed application by May 20. The application is available on the Fire Department page on the Forsyth County Web site at www.forsythco.com. Space for the programs is limited. For more information on Junior Fire Academy, call Fire Department Headquarters at 770-781-2180 ext. 0. —Kathleen Sturgeon

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NEWS

4 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Crowd discusses Campground Rd. rezoning at town hall meeting By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

17,500 [square-foot lots].” After debating for some time, Sharp told the crowd he was willing to compromise on some conditions. “We said there won’t be a lot smaller than 14,500,” Sharp said. “To do that, we’re leaving the front section as it is drawn, but the average is 17,500 square feet. You get 93-foot-wide lots with threesides brick houses – four-sides backing up to Campground Road. You get the average of 20,000-square-foot lots backing up to Campground Road. “We’ll plant as densely as we can,” he said. “We’ll put a fence across the front and put trees in the yard. I’ve given up lots in doing this. It’s fewer than we came into the room today. We’re agreeing for more green space than the CR2 allows.” Homeowner Mary Seybold said she came to the meeting because she’s concerned with the growth in Forsyth County.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Concerned citizens, builders and commissioners all gathered April 15 to discuss the rezoning for a potential neighborhood on Campground Road and Wills Road in southwest Forsyth County. The group met to discuss the idea of rezoning the 91.58-acre property from Agriculture 1 (A1) to Single Family Residential District (RES3) or possibly the new zoning classification of Single Family Community Residential District (CR2). Many in attendance wanted the property to be zoned at Single Family Residential District (RES2), but the builder, Tom Sharp, said that isn’t doable. “The difference is a RES2 is a minimum 18,500-square-foot lot, which I can’t do,” Sharp said. “That’s why the CR2 works, because it has an average of

“There are too many homes, cars on the streets, kids in classrooms,” Seybold said. “They can’t handle it. I would prefer it to be a RES2. I don’t know if that’s financially a choice with this builder, but he is a good builder and I do like his work. I’m willing to work with him and he seems to be making some changes.” Sharp said he thinks everyone at the meeting was prepared to leave pleasantly unhappy. “We’re trying to meet to find a middle ground on a piece of property so we can move forward with the development,” Sharp said. Initially, Sharp planned for around 180 homes in the neighborhood, but after the new conditions, that number will drop to about 150 homes. The group agreed to finalize conditions and meet again before the rezoning comes before the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners.

First $100 million of transportation bonds sold By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Things are starting to move along for county road projects, after commissioners paved the way to issue the first $100 million in transportation bonds. The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved two bond issues April 16. One will move forward with the road projects as part of a voter-approved transportation bond, and one will save money through refunding eligible existing parks, recreation and

It is our understanding from state officials that work on this project is expected to get underway later this year.” JOHN CUNARD Director of Engineering

greenspace bonds. In November 2014, Forsyth County voters approved up to

$200 million in general obligation bonds to fund a variety of transportation projects. Of the

up to $200 million, $81 million is proposed for projects in partnership with the Georgia Department of Transportation, leveraging state and federal funding. The remaining $119 million is proposed for county projects. The commissioners’ approval last week is for the first $100 million in bonds. “The county will be sending $53 million to the Georgia Department of Transportation, as our portion of the Ga. 400 widening project,” said Director

See BOND, Page 28

GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds • Page 29

ALPHARETTA 30009 Andover North, 3996 Dover Ave. FRIDAY 4/24, Saturday 4/25, 9am-6pm, Sunday 4/26, 9am5pm. NO Earlybirds! RAIN OR SHINE!!! Moving/estate sale. Furniture, tools, washer/dryer etc ALPHARETTA: Kimball Bridge Crossing Subdivision. 500 Morning Mist Court 30022. Friday 4/24 and Saturday 4/25, 8am-2pm. Moving! 4 piece entertainment unit, king sized brass bed, sofa, treadmill, household items, tools and more! CUMMING: 20+ families! Longlake Subdivision, 1790 Aurelia Drive 30041. Friday 4/24, Saturday 4/25, 9am-3pm. CUMMING: 20+ homes! Woodland Park Subdivision, 1020 Woodland Trace 30041. Friday 4/24 and Saturday 4/25,

8am-2pm. CUMMING: Multi-Family. Rosewood Lake Subdivision; Hyde Road and Rosewood Lake Drive 30040. Friday 4/24, Saturday 4/25, 8am-2pm. JOHNS CREEK: Mayfair/St. Clair Subdivisions; multi family. Nesbitt Ferry Road and Arborwoods Drive 30022. Saturday 4/25, 8am-2pm. Tools, furniture, home decor, childrens’ items, etc! JOHNS CREEK: Entire Doublegate Subdivision! Twingate Drive and State Bridge Road 30022. Saturday 4/25, 8am-2pm. MILTON: Multi family. Crabapple Crossing and Station Subdivisions; Broadwell Road and Dunbrody Drive. Friday 4/24, Saturday 4/25, 9am-2pm. MILTON: Six Hills, 765 Owens Lake

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Road. Garage/estate sale. Downsizing, Friday-Saturday 4/24-4/25, 8am-2pm: Home decor, wicker furniture, toys, and much more! Cash only. ROSWELL: Multi family. Magnolia Walk Subdivision; Coleman Road and Magnolia Walk 30075. Saturday 4/25, Sunday 4/26, 9am-4pm. SOUTH FORSYTH: Entire Olde Atlanta Club! 5750 Olde Atlanta Parkway. Saturday 4/25, 8am-3pm. Childrens’ clothes and toys, collectibles, sports equipment, antiques, household; something for everyone! SUWANEE/SOUTH FORSYTH 30024: Entire Grand Cascades Subdivision! Old Atlanta and James Burgess Road, follow signs. GPS: 154 Rivergate Drive. Saturday 4/25, 8am-3pm.

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6 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

NEWS

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Rail, buses proposed for northern MARTA expansion By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – MARTA is pushing ahead with extending services north of the Chattahoochee River, clear up Ga. 400 to Windward Parkway. Plans call for five stations to dot the 12-mile distance from North Springs to Windward – Northridge Road, Holcomb Bridge Road, Encore Parkway/North Point Mall, Old Milton Parkway and Windward

Parkway. These locations are generic – no specific sites have been chosen yet. Instead, these are vague locations of where stations are preferred to go. Linking these stations could be either heavy rail or heavy bus routes. “There is a lot of travel demand from the population here,” said Mark Eatman, the project manager of the study, “and there will be more from the population coming in the future.”

Population projections call for a steady influx of new residents in the north metro area. Milton, for instance, will double in population in the next 10 years. Last month, the MARTA Board of Directors approved the “Locally Preferred Alternative” – the choice from public meetings – which is the heavy rail option, similar to what dead-ends at North Springs station today. Another possibility is using

MARTA is proposing five new stations on the northern line up to Windward Parkway highlighted in blue. Existing stations are shown in magenta. heavy buses, which would be more like the trains but on wheels. There are positives and negatives, said Eatman. Heavy rail is already installed at North Springs. However the construction costs are high, more than $2 billion. In comparison, bus rapid transit could use Ga. 400 to travel or could use new, dedicated lanes. The cost to implement this would be closer to $600 million. Rail would take more than a decade to build. Buses could take less than eight years. Sen. Brandon Beach (RAlpharetta) is a known proponent of public transportation, seeing it as a means to solve many of the traffic problems plaguing metro Atlanta. He said a MARTA expansion north of the river was needed. “If transit gets you where you want to go and it is clean and safe, it will get people off Ga. 400,” he said. He pointed out that the

younger generation, especially those in the technology fields, prefer public transit, eschewing homeownership and cars. Several large, new corporate relocations to the metro area chose locations because of their access to public transportation. The current step in the process is to collect feedback on the alternatives. After that, by spring of 2016, there will be a draft document for more feedback. “We need mass transit,” said resident Gloria Scarabelli, who attended an April 16 meeting in Alpharetta. “Ga. 400 is impossible during rush hour. I’m a huge fan of the idea.” Crime and safety as well as density are still issues around any expansion. Eatman said these will be addressed before the project is complete. There is still a long way to go, said Eatman. Another public meeting will be April 30. Public comments will be accepted until May 11.


COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 7 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

FCPL takes time to appreciate volunteers By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Usually behind the scenes, the volunteers of the Forsyth County Public Library System were front-and-center April 16 at the Volunteer Appreciation Reception at Hampton Park Library. Cristie Edmondson is the circulation supervisor at Hampton Park and also a member of the committee who put on the reception. “We have so many volunteers who come in and do so much for us throughout the year,” Edmondson said. “We want to take some time to appreciate them. It gives them a time to come and mingle and get to know everyone. It’s something to show all they do throughout the year.” The volunteer program started in February 2010 and since then, volunteers have contributed 26,583 hours to FCPL. That is the equivalent of 2.5 full-time employees working since the program started five years ago. “We have definitely come a long way,” Edmondson said. “We want them to know how much we appreciate what they’re doing for us. This is a tremendous thing for someone

KATHLEEN STURGEON

From left, Therese Fajardo, Mollie Ingmire, Terry Crownhurst, Lavern Smith, Bunny Salter and Rachel Detzler volunteer at various library branches. to donate their time to help us out, and we want them to know we really appreciate it.” One of those volunteers is Barbara Barber. She began volunteering with Post Road Library about two years ago when it first opened. “My first job at 12 years old was working in our school

library,” Barber said. “I was paid 25 cents an hour and I had to get my Social Security number so I could work there. I just loved books, particularly science fiction. As life went on, I got into other things. Then when I retired, I wanted to do something to pay back the community, and I thought

working in the library was something I wanted to do.” A new program for FCPL is for the younger ones, Edmondson said. It is called Volunteen or Teen Team. “We need the help during the summer because it’s like our Christmas season,” said Laura Bradley, program man-

ager for FCPL. “It’s very busy so we need all the help we can get. We found it’s a great way for teens to give back to the community while helping us out.” Bailey McIntosh, 16, is part of the Teen Team program and said she was interested because she always had a love of reading and books. “I come here a lot so it makes sense to volunteer here,” McIntosh said. “The summer program they have for teens is a great way to start since it’s signing up kids for summer reading. It was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it. I really like the environment and all the people.” While the event was to thank the tireless volunteers like McIntosh and Barber, Barber said she wanted to give back. “[Volunteering at the library] helps use your brain by shelving and thinking about the Dewey Decimal System,” Barber said. “I thought it’d be a good thing to help my brain stay sharp. I like to give back to the community. I’ve had such a good life and it’s time for me to give something back as a way of saying thank you.” To find out how to volunteer, visit www.forsythpl.org/.

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8 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

OPINION

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Anniversary Tripp just icing on the cake I reached a bit of a milestone this month when My Lady Wife and I celebrated the anniversary of our nuptial contract for the 20th annum. Even I understand that such appointments require that I take some particular notice on my part. Kathy and I were married April 1, 1995, and you may read what you will into that particular date. I decided we should do something out of our usual orbit for this special occasion and thought a sort of second honeymoon might be in order. We didn’t want to travel too far, so it came down to a place decidedly out of town but something less than a trek. I hit upon Chattanooga as the perfect spot. It is a quaint city that is big, but not too big. It’s historic and that’s a plus. There are a couple of great Civil War battlefields for a history buff like me. There is of course Chattanooga’s aquarium, which predates Atlanta’s and doesn’t eat up your pocketbook like Atlanta’s. If you’ve ever seen those See Rock City signs, well this is where it is; likewise Ruby Falls. Plus, it is only about two hours away. When I offered up my plan, My Lady Wife was all for it. And as the day of departure drew nigh, we began talking about how great it was going to be to have this getaway. I noted it would be the first time in recent memory that we had actually been anywhere just the two of us, all alone. There would be no other couples or family. Yep, that’s right, just the two of us, I thought. Just she

Tripp on Lookout Mountain.

HATCHER HURD

WHAT’S APPENING?

Executive Editor hatcher@ appenmediagroup.com

and I — all by our lonesomes. Just we pair. All alone. Nobody else around. Me and she. Hmmm. As I began to ponder the depth and breadth of all that such a Crusoean situation entailed, My Lady Wife’s Vulcan mind meld kicked in on my wavelength. She said: “You know, it might be fun to take one of the boys along.” By that, she meant one of our twin grandsons, which would almost certainly be Tripp since he is the grandson who does not play baseball 10 months out of the year. I quickly responded, “That would be great, honey.” We both let out a sigh of relief. It turned out Tripp’s social calendar was clear – it was fortuitously his spring break. We opted to stay at Chattanooga’s Read House, a hotel smack in the middle of downtown, which was built in 1928. I was immediately drawn to the idea of the Read House because it had some history to it, and the Old Girl did not disappoint. She was of the style when a hotel was much more than just a pillow upon which to place one’s head. The Read House still has that energy of the Roaring ’20s and the patina of the elegance of the era without overstatement. She’s a grand girl who has grown old gracefully. In its day, it was filled with shops on the ground floor and a fine restaurant. Granted, the barbershop has been replaced by a Starbuck’s, but that was okey-dokey with Kathy. Nevertheless, it had a Downton Abbey atmosphere about the place that was echoed by the staff. And it is perfectly

The Read House situated on Broad Street to see the city. Walk out the door and there is the free electric trolley to shuttle you down to the river and the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art and Walnut Street Bridge. That bridge is pedestrian only, and just about everyone can be seen sauntering across it for the view and to be viewed. Having Tripp along meant we could do some of the cheesy things that two metropolitans from Atlanta might otherwise have thought themselves too sophisticated to do. We all agreed the Duck Tour was aces. For the uninitiated, these tours use World War II surplus amphibious DUKWs that can run on city streets and plunge into the Tennessee River with equal ease. It was a blast. Captain Barry was our guide and a Chattanooga native to boot. He had the skinny on “old Chattanooga” that spiced things up a bit. The big thrill was getting to see everything through the eyes of our Tripp. He loved looking at the battlefields and scrambling over Lookout Mountain. (We won’t tell his mother about that.) His epicurean highlight was hot wings. Have to work on that. He’s not too expensive to feed, it’s just that he never stops. So now we are home and our other grandson Chase has made it known he is now due a “road trip.” You have to remember Tripp is our Buick grandson. Chase is our Ferrari Testarossa. He said he would be pleased to go see a Red Sox game. In Boston of course. Maybe for our 40th.

Would you support MARTA rail service in North Fulton? Below, Appen Media Group introduces its new blog, What’s Appening? You can also find out “What’s Appening” at www. northfulton.com/whatsappening/ or follow it on the Facebook and Twitter pages for the Revue & News, Forsyth Herald, Johns Creek Herald and Milton Herald. Every day, thousands of people commute from and to North Fulton and Forsyth counties. Most move here to take advantage of the great schools, neighborhoods and overall quality of life, but spend hours of their day sitting in traffic on Ga. 400 or in offices closer to Atlanta. But as Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton and Cumming have grown, so too has the number of businesses in these communities. Now, workers who live south of the River or in town are increasingly commuting north to offices here. The result is a seemingly never-ending “rush hour” both ways on our main traffic arteries. For years, people have talked about finding a solution to the gridlock. Enter the latest round of MARTA public hearings. On April 16, local residents were invited to listen to and provide input on MARTA’s plans to bring rail service as far north as Windward Parkway on Ga. 400 at a public hearing from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at the Georgia State University Alpharetta Center. The plan includes three, and could include as many as six, transit stations between the current end of the line at North Springs and the upper reaches of Fulton County. Another public meeting will be held on April 30 in Roswell at the East Roswell Recreation Center, again from 6:30 – 8 p.m. MARTA’s Ga. 400 Corridor

KEITH STILL

Newsroom Editor keith@appenmedia group.com

Join the conversation • Would you support extending rail service to North Fulton? Would you support an express bus service? • Are you attending the MARTA public meetings? What solutions would you offer to clear up the traffic in North Fulton and Forsyth? Email your thoughts to keith@appenmediagroup. com Transit Initiative will investigate the need for “high-capacity transit connections between the Perimeter Center area near the interchange of I-285 and Ga. 400…and Windward Parkway in Alpharetta.” The need for something seems obvious. The problem is that even if everyone agrees to bring rail service north immediately, an actual solution is still years away. And there’s no indication that these hearings will result in any real movement on the issue. It was less than two years ago that similar hearings were being held to consider the idea of expanded rail or bus service in North Fulton – and nothing happened. Extending rail service is a huge – and expensive – undertaking. All the while, the cars will continue to clog the roads.


COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 9 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Northside Hospital offers free stroke screenings

2014 President of Cumming Shrine Club, Bryan Baldwin, left, receives a proclamation from Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp, right, as the members of Cumming Shrine Club and the Divan look on.

Cumming Shrine Club recognized for outstanding community service ATLANTA – The Cumming Shrine Club received a proclamation from Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp March 19 naming the group an “Outstanding Georgia Organization.” The club was given this honor for hard work and dedication to helping children and the communities they serve.

The Cumming Shrine Club was named the top club or unit of Yaarab Shrine for the year 2014. Cumming Club ranked first in fundraising at Yaarab Shrine for the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children crusade. They are passionate about helping the kids while having fun. —Jonathan Copsey

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CUMMING, Ga. — Whether you are a man or woman, no matter your race, in the prime of life or enjoying your golden years, you may be at risk for a stroke. The best protection you can take is to know your personal risk. In conjunction with National Stroke Awareness Month in May, Northside Hospital’s Stroke Center is offering free screenings to de-

termine risk for stroke, heart disease and diabetes. Screenings will be offered in Canton, Cumming and Sandy Springs. It will take place Saturday, May 16 at 9:00 a.m.-noon at Northside Hospital-Forsyth Education Center, third floor, 1200 Northside Forsyth Dr, Cumming. Free parking is available at all three locations. Appointments are required. Call 404-845-5555 and press “0.”

Register early, as spaces will fill quickly. The comprehensive screenings will be administered by health care professionals and will include a risk assessment, blood pressure reading, total cholesterol (HDL, ratio of TC/HDL), glucose, a limited number of carotid ultrasounds and a one-on-one consultation with a healthcare professional. —Kathleen Sturgeon


COMMUNITY

10 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Plant sale grows, thrives By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Plants and smiles were abundant at the Forsyth County Master Gardeners’ 18th annual plant sale April 10-11 at the Cumming Fairgrounds. Barbra Moyer, this year’s plant sale chairperson, said the sale originally started as a way to raise money for the group. “We’re a nonprofit and we don’t have any funding,” Moyer said. “We do work in the community by putting on

seminars, maintaining gardens at the libraries and we have our feed the hungry children garden program. We needed something to help us fund those programs.” Initially, plants in the sale were taken from master gardeners’ own yards, but Moyer said as the event grew, they had to add more. “We take plants out of our own garden and pot them up and sell them at the sale,” Moyer said. “Then we brought in some local nurseries and extended into the barn. That became a hit, so it expanded

from there.” Apart from plants, visitors can talk with vendors and get tips from the master gardeners. Moyer said they expect to expand the event next year. “We had several people who came who want to be vendors next year because they saw how much fun we had,” Moyer said. “We do a survey of the vendors, and 98 percent said they’re returning next year and they had praises for all the master gardeners because they helped them.” Every year, a different

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More than 2,500 people stopped by this year’s master gardener plant sale. chairperson hosts the event. Moyer said it’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it because of the people. “It was fantastic,” Moyer said. “We had over 2,500

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Two STEM seniors, Rachel Fratt and Trent Callan, explain why STEM is important to them.

STEM:

successful in our competitions, that’s not what STEM is about,” Fratt said. “STEM is about family. Sure, the curriculum is often difficult, but we go through it together. The STEM teachers and students support each other every step of the way. “STEM is about teaching the students the processes and skills they’ll need to retain to improve their lives,” she said. Forsyth County Superintendent Jeff Bearden said he is proud of the teachers and students who support each other. “I’m continually amazed at how consistently good all of our schools are throughout Forsyth County,” Bearden said. “The STEM Academy is providing rich and relevant learning experiences for our students. This is not happening at every school throughout the U.S. The students in this program will graduate with a skill set that will put them at a tremendous advantage over their peers.” State Superintendent Woods called FCHS’s program a resource for other schools. “To receive this takes a lot of work from a lot of different individuals,” Woods said. “It means a lot of individuals and groups have to be supportive of it and it means they truly have an educational community or family in Forsyth County because you do have the support. That’s really reflective of what we know works in education. My hat’s off to FCHS and Forsyth County Schools.”

Continued from Page 1 lets her know they made it. “We had accomplished what we set out to do,” Head said. “What we’ve done is create a home inside our community. You talk about neighborhoods [within a school], and I believe STEM is just one of the houses inside our neighborhood and community that has connected with kids. That’s one of the things the students told us – they found their home and the kids and teachers they connect with.” Two of those STEM Academy seniors who found their niche are Trent Callan and Rachel Fratt. The pair spoke to the audience about how STEM has impacted their lives. “It’s not the classes that really set us apart, it’s what the teachers are teaching us in these classes that are preparing us going forward in life,” Callan said. “When we came into it, they had a rough idea of what’s going to happen, but it has greatly evolved. Being this first class, we get to set the standard for future classes and challenge them to do better. This program can only grow from here.” Fratt, who won the county’s science fair and is going on to the state competition, the first in FCHS’s history, said she doesn’t know how to put STEM into a few words. “Although we’ve been

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12 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Voting open to name county’s 6th high school By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools now has an online survey open to name the county’s sixth high school, which will sit on 118.45 acres between Fowler and Mullinax roads. Voting ends April 27. To vote, visit http://tinyurl.com/m94g2st. The three choices are: Clement High School Isaac Clement was appointed in 1872 by the Forsyth County Grand Jury as the first county school commissioner, now known as

superintendent. He established the first public school district in 1873, serving 1,510 students, according to FCS’s website. Clement was a lawyer and also worked for two newspapers, the last being The Cumming Clarion, which he owned and edited for 16 years. He also served as the postmaster in Cumming and retired as school superintendent after 20 years of service. Clement died in December 1891. Denmark High School: The new high school site is adjacent to where Dr. Leila Denmark, one of the first female pediatricians in Georgia,

lived and operated her last medical office. Working with Eli Lilly and researchers at Emory University, Denmark helped develop a successful vaccine for whooping cough in 1932. She retired at the age of 103 as the oldest practicing physician in the nation. She died in 2012 at the age of 114 as the fifth-oldest living person in the world. Union Hill High School: Named after Union Hill Road in south Forsyth, it’s the name associated with this area since the 1830s. Forsyth County was formed in 1832 when Cherokee County was divided into smaller counties.

Community Walk to Benefit The Drake House ROSWELL, Ga. -- Saturday, May 2 marks the 6th annual Drake Walk to benefit local non-profit organization The Drake House. The Drake Walk 1 mile and 5k routes go through historic downtown Roswell. Check-in is from 9 - 9:30 a.m. and the walk ends at noon. Start and end are at Roswell United Methodist Church at the corner of Mimosa Boulevard and Magnolia Street. Entry cost for individuals is $15; families pay $30 and groups of 10 or more pay $10 each. There will be fun for the whole family at the finish line celebration, including entertainment, food, music and raffles. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more infor-

mation and to register, please visit www.thedrakewalk.org. Registration will also be available the day of the event. The Drake House offers short-term crisis housing, education and empowerment programs to homeless mothers and their children in North Fulton designed to move the families toward self-sufficiency. Funds raised from the Drake Walk will help maintain 16 furnished apartments and provide life skills classes on job readiness and personal finances with the end goal of sustainability for these families. For more information, visit www.thedrakehouse.org or call Karen Pye at 770-587-4712 x 307. —Jonathan Copsey


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 13

‘A Chorus Line’ to be featured at Cumming Playhouse CUMMING, Ga. — The Cumming Playhouse and BK Productions will feature the musical, “A Chorus Line” from Apr. 24 to May 17. The musical follows the story of young dancers working their way towards a job, telling their life stories as they do so. “A Chorus Line” first hit Broadway in 1975, running for more than 6,000 performances in its original production and earning 9 Tony Awards including Best Musical. The show’s producer, Kathy Russell, will lead the show with her husband, Bob Russell, who will be overseeing the show’s live music from a seven-piece band. Kathy Russell said “A Chorus Line” is one of the most beloved and honored shows in Broadway’s history. “It was nominated for 12 Tony Awards and received nine,” she said. “It also won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1976, which is rarely presented to a musical, and was the longest-running show in Broadway history for over 20 years.” The show’s record of more than 6,100 Broadway performances was only topped

in 1997 by “Cats,” which is also planned for a future stop on the Cumming Playhouse stage. “A Chorus Line” remains the sixth longestrunning show in Broadway’s entire history. Russell said she and her husband wanted to bring the show to local audiences for many reasons. “It’s just a fabulous show – it has everything,” she said. “It has awesome music, dancing and writing…it will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and everything in between.” “A Chorus Line” is set on a Broadway stage as 17 dancers audition for a show’s chorus line. As each dancer delves into why he or she wants to land the job, the show becomes a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration. Russell added that audiences will likely be intrigued to know that the local production’s choreographer, Buddy Stotts, performed in the show on Broadway. “That was one of the reasons we wanted to do this show so much,” Russell said. “How fabulous is it to have Buddy, who was actually an

actor in this show on Broadway, leading our choreography?” Russell anticipates that “A Chorus Line,” which is for mature audiences only, will sell out fast. She encouraged anyone interested in buying tickets to do so quickly. “The quality of the performers in this production is awesome,” she said. “This is a show where all the actors have to be true triple threats – great at acting, singing and dancing – so it’s a difficult show to cast, but we are blessed to have all 24 cast members be truly amazing. We really think this will be one of the most professional shows ever done at the Cumming Playhouse.” Performances will be every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m. with a 3:00 p.m. Sunday matinee. Tickets are $27.50 for adults and $25 for students and seniors. The show is for mature audiences. The Cumming Playhouse is located at 101 School Street in Cumming. To purchase tickets, visit www.playhousecumming. com. –Joe Parker

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14 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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48 | November 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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November 13, 2014 | northfulton.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 45

JC Veterans Memorial Walk

Deal names Riley to state post JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Hundreds of residents gathered with dignitaries both foreign and domestic to pay their respects at the opening Nov. 7 to the Johns Creek Veterans MeExecutive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com morial Walk at Newtown Park. The Johns Creek Veterans Association did an incredible job of pulling off the project in such stunning fashion in to pledge sponsorship for a full just 14 months. The members $13,000 plaza. She chose the raised more than $300,000 Women in Service Plaza. – without one penny of tax Jewelry retailer Jimmy Ho dollars – to create this beautiwas another early sponsor who ful “walk” with plazas honorgave the project traction. He ing those who served in every sponsored the World War II American war since World War Plaza for $13,000. I. John and Cori Davenport Other plazas include the stepped up when donations Women in Service Plaza honoring the roleHURD women have had in hit a lull this summer. They By HATCHER donated a total of $52,000 for each of these wars; a plaza for hatcher@appenmediagroup.com the Entrance Plaza, the Vietour POWs and MIAs – prisonnam War Plaza and a bench, ers of war and those still missmaking them the largest single ing in action; and the Purple JOHNSHeart CREEK, Ga. –those Gov. donors for the memorial. Plaza honoring The St. Brigid’s Catholic battle. Nathanwounded Deal in announced Church Knights of Columbus Addressing the throng Nov. 7 assembled that state Lynne not only donated the funds for on a Rep. spectacular the park’s gazebo, they also November afternoon were Riley, R-Johns Creek, will added their sweat equity and Mayor Mike Bodker, U.S. Rep. succeed Douglas MacGinnitie built it. Tom Price and the Honorable But the real thanks for Seong-jin Kim, Southas Department oftheRevenue the Memorial Walk goes to the eastern consul general for the commissioner, effective Jan. Johns Creek Veterans AssociaRepublic of Korea. The Korean RILEY government also sponsored the tion, which is only three years 11, 2015. Riley has submit- old. Without their inspiration $13,000 Korean War Plaza in ted herhonor resignation from of the Americans whothe and perspiration, none of this have happened. helped preserve Korean indeGeneral Assembly effective would The JCVA is more of a pendence. Some others deserve special social organization for “old immediately. soldiers” but early on, they demention in making the Veter“It’sans the collection arm of cided the organization needed Memorial Walk a reality. Certainly, 14-year-oldand Girl I ama project. the state of Georgia, What a project. Scout Sabrina Yvellez, who just excited to be raised chosen for With 4 acres donated by single-handedly $13,000 for the Women Service the position and inhonored be- the city from Newtown Park, they started with a plan and no Memorial, deserves special yond belief that the governor money. For this Veterans Day a mention. She was only small- inlittle over a year later, a permawould reach tonot me totheserve nent remembrance of the sacriest fundraiser, but the first to this role,” fice and courage of millions of throwRiley her cap said. over the fence

HATCHER HURD

Veterans Memorial Walk opens The Veterans Memorial Park opens with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the youngest (honorary) member of the Johns Creek Veterans Association, Girl Scout Sabrina Yvellez, and oldest, World War II veteran John Timpe. For details and photos see Pages 48-49. HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Attendance zone maps show future changes for North Fulton Proposed redistricting will impact far fewer students than in past By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Fewer than 10 percent of students attending North Fulton schools

will be impacted by changes in attendance boundaries scheduled to go into effect next year. Of the 48,000 students currently attending the 46 traditional schools in North Fulton,

fewer than 4,000 students will be zoned to new schools in any of the three draft maps currently under consideration, according to Fulton School System officials. “We try to minimize impact if possible, however, the ultimate goal is to balance enroll-

See CHANGES, Page 4

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | November 13, 2014 | 49

opens with solemn dignity Continued from Page 48

the contributions of so many people and organizations. It is a project with many parents. The JCVA especially is to be congratulated, as are the City Council for granting the space to make it possible and all of the donors and volunteers who took on the job. But we should never lose sight of the real heroes of the day. They are those men and women who served, who left families behind and traveled to foreign lands, often at great peril. And what did they fight for? Many will say they fought for the right, justice and for patriotism. But I think it really just comes down to one word, and that is the word that has defined us as a people. Freedom.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Visitors file in to the Veterans Memorial Walk to see the park for the first time.

DEAL service men and women now shines in Johns Creek. Yes, a deep debt is owed to the JCVA, but as often is the case, three members stand out. First is Gerry Lewis, JCVA’s first president and the man who championed the idea to the City Council and the business community. His leadership helped get the project off the ground in its early days. Second is Robby Newton,

Stewart, Raffensperger to run for vacant House seat

It will be Riley’s charge to collect annually the state’s $20 billion in revenues and oversee a workforce of 1,300 employees Riley said she met with the governor last Wednesday, the day after Election Day, to discuss the job. “He asked to me meet with me shortly after he was assured he was returned to office. And I look forward to serving as an agency head assisting in his administration,” she said. Riley had been one of Deal’s close allies in the Legislature, and in making the appointment, Deal praised Riley for her business and political acumen. “Lynne brings three decades of accounting experience and expertise on tax

COMMUNITY

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who is not only a JCVA member, he is also the Johns Creek parks manager. His tireless work coordinating hundreds of volunteer hours to get the park built on time and under budget was a key component of the success of the project. Third is Wayne Kidd, who is not only the project chairman, but the JCVA’s second president. Kidd more than anyone has been the face of the project. More than that, he has been the project’s sergeant major. He was always there pushing the project forward and taking on the myriad details with military precision. In the final analysis, it was

Resigns House seat to serve as revenue commissioner

Councilmembers Kelly Stewart and Brad Raffensperger anSee more, Page 49 nounced they will seek Lynne Riley’s District 50 post. See stories, Pages 18 and 20.

policy from her time on the House Ways and Means Committee,” Deal said in his statement to appoint her. “I’ve seen Lynne’s effectiveness and know-how up-close while she served as my floor leader in the House, and I know the department will continue to run smoothly and provide great customer service to the taxpayers of Georgia under her leadership. “I appreciate her willingness to take on this new challenge,” Deal said.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

The Saint Brigid Catholic Church Knights of Columbus attend ceremonies in full regalia.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Visitors examine the brick memorial pavers at the World War I Plaza. Each granite memorial has photos from the era and the campaign medal emblazoned on it.

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Johns Creek Veterans Association members from left Jerry Lewis, Robby Newton and Wayne Kidd led the organization’s efforts to make Veterans Memorial Walk a reality. HATCHER HURD/STAFF

JCVA members stand at attention during the flags-raising ceremony. At left are U.S. Army flag raisers Mike Roman and Warren Tobin. U.S. Navy flag raisers on right are Ed Nolan and Jim Williamson.

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Visitors tour the 4-acre Veterans Walk after opening ceremonies.

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A bagpiper adds a solemn note to the proceedings.

Guest speakers at dedication ceremonies are from front to back Mayor Mike Bodker, U.S. Congressman Tom Price and Consul General of the Republic of Korea Seong-jin Kim.

See RILEY, Page 18

First Place: Community Service/ Editorial

August, 2014 • NorthAtlantaBusinessPost.com

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BANK$ BOUNCE BACK Close to 90 Georgia banks have failed since 2007, far more than any other state.

But there’s a bright side to the decline. It appears we’ve hit the bottom and now it’s a slow, upward climb back to the top.

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While the effects of the severe financial downturn and the severity of the recession seem to be in the rearview mirror, it’s the smaller banks that were hit the hardest.

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that community papers have to offer,” he said. Once again, Appen Media was led by senior graphics designer David Brown, who won eight individual awards. His first place award for Best Single Ad – Fitness, Fashion or Beauty elicited this comment from the judges: “Compelling use of an image to draw you in combined with clear typogarticle, “Johns Creek Council raphy and great use of white Taking Can-do Approach.” The space.” judges said, Brown’s recognition in“The writer took a clear cluded the $300 prize for the stance to inform the reader best submission of an important in the Advertising matter in the Design Contest community.” for Veterinarian Appen Media’s ads. Rookie of the ProducYear, Kathleen tion/Newsroom Sturgeon, took Manager A.J. second place in McNaughton won the Best Original the $200 second Writing – News prize. Article category Publisher for her coverRay Appen won age of political three column shenanigans in and opinionForsyth County. writing awards, Sturgeon including two of began her career three winning at Appen as selections in Best an intern. Her Original Writarticle, “Leaked ing – Column. Documents Show Of the first place Nonemployees column “Where Receive Health Does Your KindBenefits,” was ness Reside,” the typical of her judges said, “This coverage of an LOREN COLBURN article reminds ongoing story. Executive director, Association us of the basic Other Appen of Free Community Newspapers life lesson to simwinners include ply ‘be kind.’ The Lead Graphics anecdotes are Designer Sunot only real and touching, but zanne Pacey, who picked up also well written and descripthree awards for Northside tive. We commend Ray Appen Woman. for reaching us on a social, Susan Hernandez won for emotional and moral level!” Best Presentation of Digital Executive Editor Hatcher Edition or Flip Book, and Abby Hurd scored two national firsts Breaux won a first and a secfor Community Service /Ediond for Best Original Photogtorial for his coverage of the raphy Used in Color Ad. The Johns Creek Memorial Walk at judges said of her first place Newtown Park and Best Origiphoto, “Yum, this ad makes nal Writing – Opinion for his you hungry!”

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northfulton.com | Milton Herald | January 29, 2014 | 19

Where does your kindness reside? “You is beautiful. You is smart. You is important.” – from the movie “The Help” Sometimes what we write actually has a real impact on people. I heard back from a number of readers after I wrote a column in which I asked people to be kind and consider the silent struggles others may be experiencing. Your feedback makes what I do for a living worth it. Here is a link to that column (http:// bit.ly/1hPHd2d ), and what follows are some additional thoughts. In the single-digit weather we had last week, my son Carl was at a convenience store at night and noticed a guy in dirty, soiled clothes slip a hot dog into his backpack and then walk out of the store. Out of the corner of his eye, Carl glanced over at the clerk who, out of the corner of his eye was watching the ragged

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man. The clerk then quickly glanced down and away when his gaze crossed the path of Carl’s eyes. It was raining hard outside that cold night when Carl drove off. He passed the wet homeless guy walking down the sidewalk eating his hotdog. Then he realized that his headlights were still off. Sometimes I feel like life for many people must feel like walking around in endless circles – slowly, with no direction, no destination, not a whole lot to look forward to. I can’t imagine what that must

feel like. But I should. Early yesterday morning as I was waiting in the parking lot of my gym before I went inside to work out, I spotted a car approaching. It was still dark out, and all I saw were headlights. As the car drew closer, I noticed that it looked like it had been in an accident – or several. The side of the car was scraped and dented and at least one of the windows was actually plastic held on with tape. The car used to be white but was now dirty and looked like it has been driving through mud. It circled the parking lot then parked behind me some distance. No one got out. I was concerned and somewhat worried that the driver of this car was up to no good.

When I went into the gym, I mentioned to the attendant that she may want to have someone check out the “sketchy” car in the parking lot. She looked alarmed and asked me what the car looked like. “That’s a homeless family,” she said, “that comes a couple times a week and we let them clean up here.” I went down to start my workout, but before I could get to the door, I stopped cold in my tracks. Later that day, I received a text from the attendant. “I gave your gift to the mother in her car,” she wrote. “She was incredibly grateful and asked me to please thank you so much.” The message in my previous column was that, “Everyone

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Public Hearing:

Board of Zoning Appeals Tuesday, February 18, 2014 7:00 P.M.

Location:

City of Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Bldg 100 Suite E Milton, Georgia 30004-6119 678-242-2500

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V13-011, Owens Lake Road, New phase of Six Hills subdivision, Six Maples LLC, Douglas Dillard DEFERRED FROM LAST MONTH Request(s): • To appeal pursuant to Section 64-1889 the Community Development Director’s October 4, 2013 denial of a concept plan for Six Hill Phase IV, dated May 15, 2012, per Director’s conclusion that the site plan contains a new street closer than 50 feet from a property line adjoining residentially zoned property (Section 64-2397).

2.

V13-014, 980 Mayfield Road, The Lakes at Mayfield, Planners and Engineers, Kristy Tran DEFERRED FROM LAST MONTH Request(s): • To eliminate the 50 stream/lake buffer • To eliminate the 75 foot impervious setback (Section 20-425)

3.

V14-001, Hopewell and Cogburn Road, Matt Engleka Request(s): • To allow a building to be located more than 20 feet from the edge of the landscape strip or easement, as shown on the submitted site plan. (Section 64-1145,3,a)

4.

V14-002, 14735/14737 Wood Road, Phoebe Loughrey Request(s): • To allow a barn to encroach into the 50’ stream buffer (Section 20-425) • To allow a barn to encroach into the 75’ impervious setback (Section 20425) • To allow a barn to encroach into the rear yard (Section 64-416,i) • To allow a shaving shed to encroach into the side yard (Section 64-416,i) • To allow a building holding animals (a barn) to be closer than 100’ from the side and rear property lines (Section 64-415,a)

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you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind.” But that’s not all. We need to understand the context within which our kindness resides. The context is that “it takes a village,” but you aren’t really in one until you realize that the other people in that village are your flock. That you are the shepherd and your staff is to protect them – not you. Please pay it forward. Anything. Anything at all. Every day. That clerk did. Be that clerk. I will swing by that convenience store tonight and give whoever is at the register enough money to pay for a hot dog and not explain. He won’t have a clue unless…well unless, he is that shepherd who glanced away from Carl’s eyes.


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16 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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SUMMERVILLE, GA - 983 Bethel Church 5 Bedroom | 5 Bath Offered at: $970,0

Featured Property From tundra to tulips: Top equipment for achieving a manicured lawn this season

Snowmageddon. Snowpocalypse. Polar Vortex 2.0. If you’re like most Americans, you’re limping to the finish line of yet another never-ending winter. But this winter doesn’t just have people at their breaking points, it has lawns across the country ready for a relief as well. “To say that lawns wake up from the winter hungry and ready for maintenance would be putting it lightly,” says John Turner, DIY expert and regular contributor to CraftsmanClub.com. “Achieving a beautiful lawn - even after a particularly brutal winter - is certainly attainable. But it all starts by leveraging the right equipment for your truly unique lawn.” To help get your yard looking its best this season, the Craftsman brand has new, innovative lawn and garden equipment to tackle a variety of needs: Ride in style - Riding lawn mowers take the cake for ease and comfort - especially if you have tall grass or hilly terrain. The Craftsman Pro Series Riding Lawn Mowers come in 42-, 46- and 54-in. reinforced steel decks for strength and durability and capabilities to reach speeds of up to 5.5 mph. Have an extra-large lawn? The Craftsman Pro Series Zero Turn Riding Mowers have you covered - and with a zero-inch turning radius, trees and bushes won’t slow you down. Stay powered and ditch the gas - The Craftsman 40-Volt category is the brand’s newest and most powerful cordless lawn and garden platform. The collection of lawn tools is powered by a 40 Volt MAX lithium-ion battery and includes a hedge trimmer, line trimmer, 12-inch chainsaw, sweeper and push mower. Devil is in the details - Edging tools are ideal for creating a beautiful, finished edge along driveways, walking paths and sidewalks. Edgers are simple aesthetic tools that cut out grass, roots and weeds along the edge of your pavement, and done correctly, they can set the standard for the rest of your neighborhood. Additional lawn and garden products - and yard maintenance tips, are available on CraftsmanClub.com. Here, Craftsman Club members can get advice from DIY experts, share projects in real time and learn about the latest tool innovations from the brand. Used with permission, Brandpoint Content

Canton - 975 Old Lathemtown Rd 5Bd, 6Ba, 2HBa, FMLS#5511929 $1,297,000. Marie Sir (404) 520-5263

Serenity in North GA! Gated, oversized custom home on 70 acres. Overlooks 2 spring fed pon huge 5 stall barn w/loft. Barn could be expand to 10 stalls. Breathtaking mtn views of Taylor Ridge. Features 3 fenced pastures, greenhous indoor pool, sep in-law suite w/kitchen, librar master on main. Built in 1988 with major addi added ‘06. Trails throughout property. Possibi with this property are endless. Could be used horse or cattle farm, or is an ideal setting for a & breakfast with separate living quarters.

Listing Agent: Christina Abunassar 919-389-8317

Cumming - 5570 Burruss Rd 4Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5292812 $800,000 Michael Garcia (770) 231-9908

Cumming - 3340 Shady Cove Rd 5Bd, 5.5Ba, FMLS#536959 $1,099,900 Michael Garcia (770) 231-9908

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Cumming - 5020 Highgate Ct 4Bd, 2.5Ba, FMLS#5518146 $277,000 Peter Clay (678) 492-3559

Cumming - 6350 Oak Valley Dr 4Bd, 2.5Ba, FMLS#5511854 $325,000 Ross Butler (404) 697-2842

Cumming - 2885 Gainesway Ct 5Bd, 6.5Ba, FMLS#539906 $939,000 Stacy Easley (770) 403-3577

Cumming - 6090 Riley Rd 4Bd, 4Bd, 2HBa, FMLS#5297436 $1,259,000 Terry D Cooksey (770) 503-4167

Cumming - 7695 Chestnut Hill Rd 3Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5390779 $499,900 Thomas F Stocks (678) 283-9570

Dunwoody - 2191 Brooke Farm 5Bd, 4.5Ba, FMLS#532164 $699,900 Thomas F Stock (678) 283-9570

Gainesville - 5040 Elrod Rd 3Bd, 3.5 Ba, FMLS#5295915 $599,999 Denise S Wesley (404) 451-3692

Cumming - 730 Washington Way 5Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5517215 $339,900 Jenny Rogers (770) 329-7858

Gainesville - 6432 Point Twenty Wooded lot, deep wtr, FMLS#5 $194,900 Kathleen Hernan (678) 300-2863

,

CHASE HINSON Home Mortgage Consultant

Phone: (678) 399-4143 Email: chasehinson@hsl-ga.com


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Duluth - 2452 Delbarton Pl 7 Bd, 7Ba, 2 HBa, FMLS#5400416 $2,300,000 Buddy Parrish (352) 430-9039

Bethlehem - 5475 June Ivey Rd 41+ ac in Walton Co., FMLS#5395541 $397,214 Carroll Cunningham (706) 429-6437

Cumming - 3700 Sinclair Shores Rd 4Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5503613 $480,000 Christina Abunassar (919) 389-8317

Alpharetta - 515 Aston Hall Way 4Bd, 3.5Ba, FMLS#5519513 $435,000 Christina Abunassar (919) 389-8317

Cumming - 4510 Sundance Cir 5Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5314634 $260,000 David Wolfe (716) 474-7666

Gainesville - 2786 Vaughan Dr 3+ ac lvl lot on Lanier, FMLS#5276244 $850,000 Denise S Wesley (404) 451-3692

Blue Ridge - 300 Falcon Ln 5Bd, 3.5Ba, FMLS#5363485 $985,000 Garel Curry (404) 863-0835

Alpharetta - 11850 Little Creek Xing 7Bd, 6Ba, 2HBa, FMLS#5346253 $1,086,000 Garel Curry (404) 863-0835

Dawsonville - 135 Depot Dr 4Bd, 2Ba, FMLS#5520152 $174,500 Jill Buysman (678) 488-6655

Gainesville - 8845 Brookhurst Trail 4Bd, 3.5Ba, FMLS#5519597 $204,900 Peter Clay (678) 492-3559

Young Harris - 4431 Furman Gribble Rd 4Bd, 3.5Ba, FMLS#5312383 $699,000 Kenneth Klosinski (678) 399-4133

Cumming - 8305 Scudders Gold Trl 4Bd, 4.5Ba, FMLS#5364308 $515,000 Marie Sir (404) 520-5263

Is your money going out the window? It won’t with energyefficient windows One of the largest contributors to a home’s energy efficiency is its windows. Energy-efficient windows can lower your energy costs and increase your home’s comfort while reducing your carbon footprint and increasing your home’s value. For example, replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR windows can save between 1,106 to 6,072 pounds of carbon dioxide a year from entering the atmosphere. According to ENERGY STAR that is equivalent to saving 51 to 310 gallons of gasoline. Plus, replacing old windows with new energy-efficient designs can return more than 78 percent of the project cost back to you upon resale, the National Association of Realtors reports. To learn more about these statistics, visit www.pella.com. So what factors should you consider when shopping for energyefficient, environmentally friendly windows? The ENERGY STAR logo - You’ve probably seen the blue EN-

ERGY STAR logo on a variety of products including your washer or refrigerator. That logo designates products that meet strict energy-saving guidelines from the Environmental Protection Agency. Windows and doors with an ENERGY STAR designation lower household energy use which saves you money and helps protect the environment. Low U-values - In addition to ENERGY STAR ratings, look for windows and doors with low U-values, which means they resist the transfer of heat - the lower the U-value, the better. Doublepane insulating glass windows, with a gas-filled space between the glass, can insulate more than two times better than singlepane windows based on a comparison of U-values. Recycled materials - Evaluate the amount of recycled content used, either post-consumer or post-industrial. The roll formed aluminum cladding, the metal exterior that protects the wood from the weather, on Pella’s wood windows and doors is made from more than 95 percent recycled aluminum material. Product material - Wood windows utilize renewable resources. When shopping for wood, look for certified wood. There are several wood certification systems available, the most wellknown being the Forest Stewardship Council or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. Most of the well-known certification systems are developed and used with the same key purpose in mind; to practice sustainable forestry. Your location - Windows allow for natural daylighting, which reduces or eliminates the need for artificial lighting saving on your electrical use. Plus, your climate or area within the United States has specific requirements to qualify for ENERGY STAR certification. To learn more, visit ENERGY STAR. Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Pinterest or Houzz for more home tips and design inspiration. Used with permission, Brandpoint Content

Cumming - 4315 Sundance Cir 4Bd, 2Ba, FMLS#5502720 $225,000 Michelle Flynn (770) 883-7792

Dawsonville - 161 Toto Creek Dr E 3Bd, 2.5Ba, FMLS#5361961 $484,900 Terry D Cooksey (770) 503-4167


18 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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Timeless Interior Design Perfect for Protecting Your Kitchen Investment Creating characterful interiors with hardwood moulding Just as tasteful, well-chosen jewelry can turn an unexciting outfit into a stylish, eye-catching ensemble, carefully applied hardwood mouldings and trimwork can transform a plain-Jane interior into an interesting even beautiful - space. Today’s newly built houses often lack any sort of carved-wood ornamentation. Many older homes have lost their traditional decorative details through successive modernizing renovations. To transform stripped-down to charming, and ordinary to characterful, homeowners are incorporating decorative millwork to enhance their interior design. While there is an almost infinite variety of hardwood mouldings and trims, the pros at the American Hardwood Information Center, www.Hardwoodinfo. com, and most design experts, recognize the following most basic categories: * Baseboards, which run at the foot of walls and act as an elongated pedestal, are both aesthetic and practical. They visually anchor the wall to the floor and at the same time protect it from everyday low-impact abuse such as kids scooting around in toy cars. * Crown mouldings, which run between the walls and the ceiling, soften the abrupt transition between wall and ceiling. * Casings, the trim surrounding door and window

Cumming - 0 Settingdown Rd 3.5 acres of privacy, FMLS#5282635 $70,000 Kerry Neel-Friedel (404) 353-9121

openings, define a wall opening and help connect the spaces being joined.

overwhelm the space. If in doubt, consult a design professional.

“Our clients are attracted to the enduring quality and ageless appeal of hardwood moulding,” says architect Jeff Murphy, principal of Murphy & Co. Design, a Buffalo, Minnesota-based firm. “For them, it’s the heart of the home - something they see and touch each day. Done right, it will last forever and always be in style.”

Before the Civil War, American hardwood moulding was made by hand, so it tended to be simple, elegant and expensive. In the later 19th Century, methods of mass production enabled builders to deck out even modest houses with affordable wood trim in ever-morecomplex profiles. The 20th Century saw decorative simplifications of the Arts and Crafts style, emphasizing clean lines, unfussy forms and the inherent beauty of natural wood. This was followed by the Art Deco and Modernist movements, which further streamlined or completely eliminated applied architectural ornament such as mouldings and trims.

For architect Tim Button of New York City-based Stedila Design, hardwood mouldings are appropriate in any room in the home, but he also says, “I think wood trim often makes its biggest impact in an entry hall where high ceilings allow for large-scale crown mouldings.” And he’s a fan of using stained-wood mouldings in bathrooms, “because it brings warmth to what can be a somewhat clinical space.” Edina, Minnesota-based architect Meriwether Felt agrees, having installed stained-cherry mouldings, trims, and casings in the master bath of a home she renovated. “The client asked for a luxurious yet elegant feeling and the cherry fit the bill perfectly. The stained wood warms up the bathroom and provides richness.” The size of the trimwork and the complexity of its profile will be determined by the size and style of the space in which it’s being installed; the larger and more traditional the room, the bigger and more ornate the trim. Crown mouldings in particular have a profound and sometimes unexpected effect on how people perceive the scale, proportions and character of an interior, so they must be chosen with great care. If too small and plain, they’ll look skimpy and undernourished; too large and ostentatious and they’ll

Dahlonega - 114 Spring Valley Trce 3Bd, 3Ba, FMLS#5012873 $425,000 Michael Garcia (770) 231-9908

Today, tastes tend to be eclectic, and whether you install an elaborately carved crown moulding featuring acanthus leaves and egg-and-dart detailing or an elegantly austere profile comprising nothing more than a graceful S-curve, will depend on personal preference and the overall style of your home. No matter what your architectural preferences might be, you can transform a plain-Jane interior into a distinctive, characterful environment by incorporating hardwood mouldings and trimwork into your home’s design. Visit the American Hardwood Information Center, www.hardwoodInfo.com, and be inspired.

Harry Norman Realtors®, Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office 1664 Market Place Blvd. Cumming, GA 30041

Used with permission, Brandpoint Content

Dawsonville - 2144 Frank Bruce Rd 3Bd, 3.5Ba, FMLS#5290317 $899,900 Michael Garcia (770) 231-9908

Gainesville - 1189 Antioch Campground Rd 3+ acre lot on Lanier, FMLS#5514161 $1,200,000 Trudy D Taylor (770) 883-8640

LADONNA HOCKER

Senior Account Executive Gainesville - 6450 Crooked O Trl 3Bd, 2Ba, FMLS#5390871 $337,000 Trudy D Taylor (770) 883-8640

Gainesville - 8845 Brookhurst Trl 4Bd 3.5Ba, FMLS#5519597 $204,900 Peter Clay (678) 492-3559

Cumming - 1375 Creek Vista Dr 3Bd, 2Ba, FMLS#5515407 $345,000 Kenneth Klosinski (678) 399-4133

FORSYTH/LAKE LANIER OFFICE

Phone: (678) 662-4423 Email: lhocker@ahslink.com www.ahslink.com

1664 Market Place Blvd., Cumming, GA | (770) 497-2000 | wwww.HarryNorman.com


19 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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Gwinnett Tech tunes in to North Fulton employers By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Gwinnett Technical College has wasted no time telling the North Fulton business community that its new satellite campus in Alpharetta plans to make itself useful. Less than two months after ground was broken on the site at Ga. 400 and Old Milton Parkway, the college has notified business leaders it is ready to feed the growing appetite for trained workers. “The purpose of the technical college system is to get a workforce ready to fill the needs of the immediate community, and our immediate community for this campus is North Fulton,” said Jeremy Bennett, dean of GTC’s North Fulton campus. The school now offers continuing education classes to technology professionals. The college has three buildings planned, and its formal opening is scheduled for January 2016. The first building will have approximately 95,000 square feet, housing 35 classrooms and a number of admin-

istrative offices. The first program offerings, developed with input from North Fulton business and economic development leaders, will include computer sciences, life sciences, criminal justice, accounting, business administration technology, basic science, patient care and assisting, hotel, restaurant and tourism and early childhood care and education. “Basically, we find out there’s a business need, and we can see an annual employment figure in the area,” Bennett said. “For example, if we find 60 people in need, we can start program development. Or we can modify a current program.” For example, within the past few years, the college has instituted a concentration on social media in response to calls from people who wanted a social media agent in their office. “When we find out there’s a need in an area large enough, we can develop a full academic program leading to an associate’s degree to fill that need,” Bennett

See GWINNETT, Page 20

The 25-acre Gwinnett Tech campus site is across from the Avalon development, at the intersection of Georgia 400 and Old Milton Parkway. It is scheduled to open Jan. 2016.


BusinessPosts

20 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

Maintaining a positive attitude While running your small business, are you maintaining a positive attitude? Do you look at the glass as “half full” or “half empty?” Do you let negative things that happen impact your overall attitude? Maintaining a positive attitude while running your small business is very important. Thinking positive is not a hard thing to do, but many small business owners fall into the pit of having a negative attitude. There are plenty of reasons why. Issues and challenges with clients, employees, suppliers, finances, sales… and the list goes on and on. You can either accept this and keep a positive attitude, or you can complain and have a negative attitude. With a positive attitude, you experience pleasant and happy things. Your health is even affected by having a good attitude. Conversely, negative thoughts create a negative attitude, and it’s infectious across your entire business. Keeping a positive attitude as the

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

owner and leader of your business will inspire your employees to do the same. Author Charles Swindoll once said, “Life is 10 percent of what happens to you, and 90 percent of how you react to it.” You are indeed in charge of what type of attitude you maintain, and if it’s a positive one, good things will come your way. Look at the glass half full, keep everything in perspective and remember that bad things can have good outcomes if you maintain a positive attitude.

Gwinnett: Continued from Page 19 said. “If the need is smaller so there’s a company that might need five to 10 people, but they won’t need it on a regular basis, we can create a new education course where we’ll bring in experts or we’ll use the experts at the college to develop a curriculum just for that business. We can do that on our campus or at an off-site location.” Bennett said the technical college operation allows for such flexibility. Generally, it takes about a year to get an academic program up and running. If it’s simply a matter of adding certain courses to an existing program, the time frame can be shorter. “It’s different than a university system,” Bennett said. “It’s a lot quicker than that, and we do try to be as fluid as we can be.” Currently, the North Fulton campus is offering continuing education classes at the Alpharetta Technology Commission’s incubator building. Classes will later transition to the campus site. “If you’re managing IT people, but you don’t understand anything about it, we give you a rundown so you know just enough to be dangerous,” Bennett said. “This is something we found out about as an issue some managers have when they start talking to the IT folks, that they’re a little disconnected from the conversation.” The college also offers an immersive, eight-week

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Successful sellers know how to dress up a home

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” Here are some more micro trends in the housing market and general economy we’ve spotted on our radar. Design Power. Buyers are demanding more design in their housing. Builders and sellers who provide the “wow!” will do very well. If in doubt, provide more, not less. Here are some of the design “turn-ons” and “turn-offs.” Turn-ons include: Houses backing to open space, views, water; outdoor rooms and outdoor fireplaces; colors (anything but white); hardwood or tile floors on most of the main level (except bedrooms and possibly dining rooms): main floor master bedrooms; 9- to 10-foot ceilings (even in basements); natural materials (stone,

program where an individual can literally change his or her career path. “You basically come in with very little knowledge, and you come out as a junior programmer,” Bennett said. “You’re able to go to work at that level.” The college also is partnering with Tech Talent South for instructors to fill immediate needs for classes in North Fulton. In addition, Gwinnett Tech has partnered with Kids 4 Coding, a company out of Roswell, which will put on camps at the Gwinnett campus this summer for kids from second through eighth grade. Plans call for rolling out the program to the North Fulton campus in 2016. “With these two arms, we’re hitting the kids – second through eighth grade – and people who are out of

Being able to work with Gwinnett Tech to meet the workforce needs of our businesses is obviously an essential part of making sure that we remain successful.” BETHANY USRY, vice president of Progress Partners of North Fulton Atlanta

FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency

wood); “killer-kitchens” – custom cabinets (42 inches or better), islands, granite full-tile backsplash; stainlesssteel appliances. Turn-offs include: Dated, overpriced homes; clutter; un-staged homes; white walls; oak; brass; vinyl; choppy floor plans that don’t flow; dated designs and colors; 8-foot ceil-

See NORTON, Page 28

college already,” Bennett said. Through an arrangement with Fulton County Schools, the college will begin an early college academy this fall. Fulton County high school seniors will be able to come to an off-site location in the fall, then to the main campus in the spring, to do their senior year at Gwinnet Tech. Through this program, these seniors will be able to earn 24-30 college credit hours that are transferrable anywhere in the state university system or any other technical college. Classes will run from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday. This way, students can return to their home school for extracurricular activities if they’d like, or they can work at a job. The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce has already been in meetings with the college to begin tailoring classes and programs to suit the continuing education needs of the local business community. “Being able to work with Gwinnett Tech to meet the workforce needs of our businesses is obviously an essential part of making sure that we remain successful,” said Bethany Usry, vice president of Progress Partners of North Fulton Atlanta, the chamber’s economic arm. The college has already sent out surveys to several local business groups, including the Tech Forum, the Greater Alpharetta Technology Network and the Alpharetta Technology Commission. “Once they receive the data back on those (surveys), there will be coordination of efforts between our workforce development initiative and the data it receives to make sure we’re meeting all the needs of the technology businesses in North Fulton,” Usry said.


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PEOPLE »

Matt Simon named Avalon senior general manager ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Matt Simon, the retail operator credited with elevating the profile of The Grove in Los Angeles, has been named vice president and senior general manager of Avalon, the experiential, mixed-use development in Alpharetta. “When you have something as special as Avalon, it can completely SIMON change the way life is lived in a community,” Simon said. “When I got the opportunity to be a part of that, I jumped. My wife and I are thrilled to be living in Alpharetta and beginning this new chapter of our lives.”

BusinessBriefs Brad Carlton earns 2014 Angie’s List Super Service Award FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Brad Carlton of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers has earned the Angie’s List Super Service Award. “I am very pleased my clients appreciate the services I provide and am honored to have earned this distinction for the fifth year,” Carlton said. CARLTON Carlton, of Forsyth County, has been representing Atlanta area home sellers and home buyers since 1994 with more than $220 million in sales. He boasts a 99.98 percent past client approval rating. “Only about 5 percent of the realtors in Atlanta have performed so consistently to earn our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a really high standard.” To contact Carlton, call 678-779-5161 or visit www.bradcarlton.com.

TECH »

Excent data management used by S.C. agency ROSWELL, Ga. – The South Carolina Department of Education has partnered with Roswell-based Excent Corp. to implement a special education data management system designed specifically for the state level. The system, known as Enrich State, allows district and state special education personnel to manage all IDEA and state-level compliance requirements, and to consolidate performance data.

RelayHealth system eases verification process From left are Lorrie Collie and Bette Glass.

Two new home consultants join Lennar Atlanta ROSWELL, Ga. — Bette Glass and Lorrie Collie, experienced real estate professionals and top producers, have joined Lennar Atlanta as new home consultants. Glass, born and raised in Dallas, Texas, has extensive experience selling real estate in Atlanta. “I am excited to be working for a great quality builder that includes everything for the customer,” Glass said. Collie, an active member of both the Atlanta Association of Realtors and the Cobb Association of Realtors, belongs to the Million Dollar Club in recognition of her success in real estate. “I am thrilled to be working with a reputable, winning, top-producing corporation and look forward to a great future with Lennar Atlanta,” Collie said.

First Southern adds to sales force ALPHARETTA, Ga. — First Southern Securities, a broker dealer focusing on municipal bond sales and fixed income trading, has added Broc Spradlin and Alexander Watts to its institutional sales force. The two bring nearly 15 years of industry experience to the firm. Both men bring with them expertise in municipal bond sales and trading along with a sizeable RIA client base, said W. Heath Hawk, FSS’s chief executive officer. Spradlin and Watts come to the firm from Crews and Associates in Little Rock, Arkansas

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – RelayHealth Financial recently announced that its new ConnectCenter management portal now helps users easily confirm patient benefit and insurance information online, to help speed eligibility validation. The system can now replace phone/fax/payer portal eligibility verification to help health care practices and their vendors save time, reduce claim rejections and improve cash flow. “It’s surprising how many practices today still rely on phone and fax for eligibility information, given the increasing need to know their patients’ coverage faster and reduce administrative costs,” said Marcy Tatsch, vice president and general manager, RelayHealth Financial. ConnectCenter uses information from RelayClearance EDI and RelayHealth Financial’s network of payer connections to assimilate detailed data from over 1,200 payer portals.

GROWTH »

Rusty’s Bakery celebrates first anniversary ROSWELL, Ga. —Rusty’s Bakery, 2500 Old Alabama Road, celebrated its first anniversary as a stand-alone store this month. The bakery, part of the Red Bandanna Pet Food family of stores, formerly shared the space with the retail and dog wash portions of Red Bandanna. Now, the entire space is dedicated solely to the creation of handmade, all-natural pet treats. The items are baked and sold from this Roswell location as well as distributed to Red Bandanna’s 11 other local stores in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Buckhead, Canton, Norcross, Marietta, Milton and Suwanee.

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 21 Rusty’s Bakery is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on weekends). To learn more, call 770-587-6900 or visit www.RBPetFood.com.

BUSINESS »

Norman’s Landing partners with Red Cross CUMMING, Ga. — Norman’s Landing presented a check for $1,280 to the American Red Cross. From left are Jim Barco, philanthropy officer of American Red Cross, Norman’s Landing Manager Jenny Thomas and owner Bill Norman.

Turf Masters announces largest acquisition to date ROSWELL, Ga. — Lawn and pest control company Turf Masters acquired Dorsey Services, a major lawn care, tree and shrub and pest service company, earlier this month. 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.

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T N E V E S S I M T ’ N DO E WEEKEND OF TH 22 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

CALENDAR

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

The Criterium showcases professional and junior level riders around Canton and Green Streets. Looking for more of a recreational ride? Check out the Roswell Mayor’s Ride, kicking off the day at 7:30 a.m.

$20 gets you into the Craft Beer Tasting Festival where you can sample 10 craft beers from various Roswell restaurants.

Roswell Cycling Festival • SUNDAY, APRIL 26 Now in its 14th year, this muchloved event boasts the Roswell Mayor’s Ride, the Historic Roswell Criterium, Kid’s Bicycle Safety Rodeo, and the festival expo. Sunday, April 26. The Roswell Mayor’s Ride at 7:30 a.m. starts at Roswell Area Park and

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At the Craft Beer Tasting Festival from 12:30 to 7 p.m., for $20 guests can buy a commemorative 5 oz. stein to sample 10 craft beers from participating Roswell restaurants. The Criterium offers competitive races from professional to junior level looping around Canton Street and Green Street, with the Women’s Pro Race at 4 p.m. and the Men’s Pro

Race at 6 p.m. Spectators will see colorful jerseys race at over 30 miles per hour along the USA Cycling official course. The Kids’ Bicycle Safety Rodeo is a class about cycling safety and handling skills during the Criterium races. After the class, children will go through an obstacle course to graduate and enter the Kid’s Races.


CALENDAR

EDITOR’S PICKS

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 23

Send

me your event...

MUSIC UNDER THE MOON

Join in for an evening of jazz, refreshments and dancing at Cambridge High School Courtyard, 2845 Bethany Bend in Milton. Friday, April 24, 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person and $5 for students at the door

MUSIC:

WYATT ESPALIN

Wyatt Espalin performs at Warsaw Church, 9770 Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek. Sunday, April 26, 7 p.m. pre-concert gathering Concert at 8 p.m. Visit www.autreymill.org for more info

When: Sunday, April 26 Times: 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Cost: $59 early bird Web: thevelvetnote.com

International Film Series at Park Place at Newtown School, Johns Creek. Sunday, April 26 at 3:30 p.m. This is a free event. Visit www.JohnsCreekGA. gov/ParkPlace for more info or call 678-512-3430 to RSVP

the comic melodrama, “Cornfield of Dreams – Or the Villain Was a Laughing Stalk.” Where: Roswell Adult Recreation Center When: Friday, April 24 at 2 p.m. Cost: $15 for lunch combo Friday, $7 for show only Contact: 770-641-3950 for reservations Web: www.roswellslc.org/ ramblers

AHS ORCHESTRA

AARON LEWIS AT 37 MAIN

Who: Country singer Aaron Lewis, best known as the Staind front man. Where: 37 Main in Johns Creek, 6000 Medlock Bridge Parkway. When: Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. Cost: $25 Web: www.37main-store.com.

What: All four AHS orchestras with a full complement of talented musicians will be performing. The students received the highest ratings at the GMEA District V Large Group Performance Evaluation. Where: Alpharetta High School Auditorium, 3595 Webb Bridge Road When: Tuesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. Cost: Free Web: www.ahsoa.org

KENNY GARRETT

Who: Saxophonist Kenny Garrett has become the preeminent alto saxophonist of his generation. Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta

What: Enjoy an evening filled with classical and contemporary musical favorites. Where: Johns Creek High School Auditorium, 5575 State Bridge Rd, Johns Creek, GA When: Tuesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. Cost: Free Web: johnscreekorchestra. com

THEATRE: CORNFIELD OF DREAMS

What: The More or Less Players, a Roswell Ramblers senior acting troupe, present

ROSWELL PHOTO SOCIETY EXHIBIT

A beautifully nostalgic look at the city of Roswell at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center Lobby, 950 Forrest Street. Through May 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What: A Chorus Line tells of the achingly poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies to land a job in the show, and is a powerful metaphor for human aspiration. When: Friday, April 24 at 8 p.m. Where: Cumming Playhouse Web: playhousecumming.com What: The many adventures -both big and small- of Stuart Little the mouse are brought vividly to life in this energetic production. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street When: Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. Contact: 770.641.1260 ext. 223

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.

RACES & BENEFITS: North Point Mall, 1202 North Point Circle in Alpharetta When: Saturday, April 25 Hours: 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Cost: $10 Web: americangirl.com

A GARDEN FAIRE

What: North Fulton Master Gardeners present a onestop shop for everything to make your gardening dreams a reality. Pass-a-long plants, demonstrations, art, music and more. Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue in Roswell When: Saturday, April 25 Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DANCE A THON

What: Dancing, fun contests and prizes. $500 grand prize for most donations to JV Outreach. Proceeds will go to free dance programs during P.E. and on weekends. Where: North Atlanta Dance Academy, 10700 State Bridge Road in Johns Creek When: Saturday, April 25th Hours: 6 to 11 p.m. Check in at 5 p.m. Cost: $25 to enter, $10 for spectators Web: jvoutreach.org

DRAKE WALK

EVENTS: GRACE’S APRON CRAFT AND COOKIE

What: Your girl will get a fun baker’s apron craft to decorate for herself and her doll. Plus, she’ll decorate delicious cookies—just like ones Grace would make. Where: American Girl at

Calendar Editor calendar@appenmediagroup.com

activities and crafts. Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek When: Saturday, April 25 Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Admission is $5 per person, children under 2 free with admission of older sibling.

A CHORUS LINE

STUART LITTLE JCHS ORCHESTRA

SHANNON WEAVER

LE PAPILLON

WILD WEEKEND

What: The Atlanta Zoomobile brings Chompers, an alligator, Tsara. a tenrec and Cusco, a chinchilla. Lots of fun

What: The Drake Walk 1 mile and 5k routes go through beautiful historic downtown Roswell benefiting local nonprofit The Drake House. Where: Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Boulevard in Roswell When: Saturday, May 2 Hours: Check-in from 9 a.m. until 9:30 a.m.; walk ends at 12 p.m. Cost: $15 individual entry, $30 families, $10 groups of 10 or more.


24 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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ering LASIK have realistic expectations. LASIK, if performed successfully, will allow individuals to perform most of their everyday tasks independent of corrective lenses. LASIK is performed in an outpatient surgical center, with the patient reclining under a surgical device called an excimer laser. The length of the procedure can vary between 10-15 minutes depending on the patient’s prescription. During your free LASIK consultation, our medical team will determine your candidacy for LASIK, explain the procedure in depth and answer any questions you may have. Schedule your free LASIK exam at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.

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COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 25 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

FOCUS ON EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION:

Cumming Utilities Dept. provides more than water, sewer services CUMMING, Ga. — As part of ongoing efforts to provide education to the public about water and sewer resources and conservation efforts, the City of Cumming Department of Utilities recently distributed informational brochures and letters to a large south Forsyth subdivision. Over the course of two days, the department’s Meter Services Division delivered 300 letters and “Do-It-Yourself Household Water Assessments,” as well as some 1,200 educational brochures covering topics such as landscape irrigation systems, septic tank maintenance and home water conservation as part of the department’s educational efforts. Meter Services employees have made similar deliveries to several other neighborhoods over the past few years as part of a focus on education. Utilities Director Jon Heard said the educational program is an important part of the department’s mission to help the public learn about ways to reduce water usage, which of course leads to lower monthly utility bills. “When our customers learn ways to improve the water usage in their own homes, it’s truly a win-win for everyone,” Heard said. “Our community’s resources are better protected and our residents can save money on their monthly bills.” Even if you don’t live in one of the neighborhoods to receive the informational packets, the Cumming Utilities Department is available to help you find ways to reduce water usage. The “Do-It-Yourself Household Water Assessment” and informational brochures are available to any Cumming Utilities customer at the department headquarters, located on the first floor of Cumming City Hall. The assessment can also be found on the department’s website, www.cummingutilities.com.

Don’t want to tackle the assessment by yourself? Department employees are available to conduct the water assessment for customers at no cost. This free service can be scheduled by contacting the Water Production Office at 770-781-2026. The Cumming Utilities Department also offers a limited number of kits that can be used to convert higher-flow shower heads and faucets to lower-flow. These items can

When our customers learn ways to improve the water usage in their own homes, it’s truly a win-win for everyone.” JON HEARD Utilities Director

be picked up any time between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday at City Hall. Customers can also receive $100 bill credit if they switch from an older toilet to a highefficiency model. Full information about this program can be found on the department’s website. “We encourage all of our customers to let us help them in finding ways to reduce their water usage and costs each month,” Heard said. For more information about the City of Cumming Department of Utilities and all its programs, go to www.cummingutilities.com. —Kathleen Sturgeon

Cumming Utilities Meter Services employees, from left, Alex Brock, John Gilbert and John Mixon, prepare to distribute educational items in a south Forsyth community.


26 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

Flight to D.C. honors local veterans

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.comw

County eight years ago with his wife, who recently passed away, Monica said. The two WASHINGTON, D.C. — Herwere married for almost 72 schel Scheidt, a 93-year-old years. World War II veteran, served in Herschel’s son Dennis said France, Germany and Austria one of the best parts of the trip seventy years ago. On April 14, was being able to see Herschel he was honored for his duand Eric talk about their time ties with a trip to the nation’s at war, including how they capital. would communicate with their Roswell Rotary Club’s wives. Honor Air program works to “To have his grandson, honor the “ordinary people who who is also a military vet, to saved the world” by providing escort him and go with him as many veterans was a wonderas possible a free ful day for the day trip to visit the two of them to World War II Memoshare stories and rial in Washington, encourage each D.C. other,” Dennis About 70 said. “It’s interveterans took the esting to hear trip April 14, each what war was like escorted by one for each of them person of their two generations choosing. Scheidt apart.” chose his grandson, The Roswell Eric Emery Scheidt, Rotary Club is a retired military making a point, veteran who served Monica said, that in Iraq, Afghanistan the next genand Korea. eration needs to Monica Scheidt, remember what Herschel’s daughthese veterans ter-in-law, said the have sacrificed. event was wonder“We haven’t ful. had a war in our “They had a generation in chartered flight our territory,” and a police escort Monica said. “So from Roswell to the it’s so meaningairport,” Monica ful to know these said. “There were men are honored three red, white and blessed, and and blue buses we’re thankful MONICA SCHEIDT that carried the for the freedoms Veteran Herschel Scheidt’s vets and their we have because daughter-in-law escorts on. When of what they’ve they arrived in done.” D.C., there were Herschel said representatives the escort to D.C. from each of the military was one of the most interesting branches, as well as hunparts of the trip. dreds of people who shook “It meant quite a bit,” Hertheir hands and cheered for schel said. “It was an honor to them. It was quite moving.” get to go. I would be willing to Herschel moved to Forsyth go again.”

... It’s so meaningful to know these men are honored and blessed, and we’re thankful for the freedoms we have because of what they’ve done.”

Herschel Scheidt, right, was escorted by his grandson, Eric Emery Scheidt, who is also a veteran, on Roswell Rotary Club’s Honor Air flight April 14.

Herschel Scheidt visits the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Cheering citizens and family members welcome veterans home as the red, white and blue buses return these honored, and very weary, travelers from Hartsfield to Roswell at day’s end.

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COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 27 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Holocaust survivor to speak at library Forsyth’s Great American Cleanup held April 25 CUMMING, Ga. — In partnership with Atlanta’s William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, the Cumming Library will host a special presentation from George Rishfeld, a Holocaust survivor, on Sunday, May 17 at 2:00 p.m. Rishfeld’s “Memories of the Holocaust” presentation is part of the library’s One World Forsyth cultural series and will include an overview of the Holocaust as well as stories, personal accounts, and photos from Rishfeld’s family. Seating for the event is limited. Originally named Jureck, George Rishfeld was born in Warsaw, Poland on April 26, 1939. He was the only child of Richard and Lucille Rishfeld, who owned a fur business. Barely five months after Rishfeld was born, Nazi forces invaded Warsaw and his family fled to the Lithuanian city of Vilna. Soon, Nazi forces occupied Vilna and Rishfeld’s family

was forced to live in the Vilna ghetto where food was scarce, sanitation was horrible and sickness was rampant. After Nazis killed Rishfeld’s aunt, baby cousin and his grandparents, Rishfeld’s parents decided on a daring plan to save their child. Rishfeld’s father found a way to contact Halinka Fronckvics and her father, both of whom had been employed in his fur business. The Fronckvics family agreed to care for Rishfeld during the war and return him to his parents if they survived, or to raise him as their own son if his parents did not survive. Rishfeld’s parents kissed their small son goodbye and tossed him over a fence, into the arms of Halinka Fronckvics, who carried him home to her parents and kept him hidden from Nazi forces. During his presentation, Rishfeld will talk about the difficulties of pretending not to

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be a Jewish child and his longing for the parents who could not be with him during World War II. He will discuss how his father escaped the ghetto to join the resistance and what became of his mother after she was transferred to a number of different ghettos. Rishfeld will share photos of his family before and after the war, as well as the story of how he came to the United States and later joined the Army so he could help defend the country that had become a refuge for his family. A brief question-and-answer session will follow Rishfeld’s presentation. For more information on this or other One World Forsyth programs, please visit www.forsythpl.org. —Kathleen Sturgeon

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Keep Forsyth County Beautiful encourages all to participate in cleaning up Forsyth’s roadways as a part of the Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup on April 25. Volunteers will meet at the Central Park Recreation Center, 2300 Keith Bridge Road, at 9:00 a.m. and then set out to clean up Forsyth’s roadways. “The Great American Cleanup is a fantastic opportunity for citizens, community organizations, businesses or clubs to really make a positive impact on our efforts to make Forsyth County litter

free,” Environmental Program Manager Tammy Wright said. For more information, visit www.keepforsythcountybeautiful.org. -Joe Parker

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28 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 The man was arrested for battery.

Car rolls over through downtown square CUMMING, Ga. — A man driving a Chevrolet Blazer April 7 overturned his vehicle after he reported his throttle

stuck. The 18-year-old’s truck ended up on its roof next to Laguna Restaurant, 101 W. Courthouse Square. After being cleared by medical staff, the man told police his throttle stuck. Several sheriff’s deputies came to the accident scene from the courthouse. They looked out the window and observed the Blazer “laying drag,” then going up on the sidewalk. The man later told police he intended to spin the tires,

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com | Recycled paper but the throttle became stuck. The accident began on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in front of the new courthouse that curves onto Main Street. The Blazer went over the sidewalk, hit a park bench, concrete tiles / pavers and pedestrian cross walk sign and then scraped across West Courthouse Square where it hit the curb, flipped over and hit the Laguna restaurant building and a light pole. He was arrested for reckless driving.

In Memoriam

Michael Thomas Origel Buckley Michae

If I could spend the rest of my life with my people, I would do it over and over again Leave it up to them to fill up their steeple, leave it up to us to fill up on our friends - Soja Mick Buckley, 26 of Alpharetta/ Cumming passed away Saturday April 4, 2015 at his home in Alpharetta. Mick was born September 2, 1988 in Key West, FL to Michael and Robin Buckley. Mick worked on cell towers – climbing for numerous companies. At the time of his death he was working with G-Lan Construction. He traveled the south extensively in the company of his faithful companion, Rocky. Mick’s passions were music, Rocky, his many good friends and his family. Mick is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Robin Buckley, his adoring sister Danica Buckley of Acworth, grandmother Elaine Walderhaug of Tampa, FL, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins in Florida, California

and Nevada, his dog Rocky and many truly, good friends. A beautiful memorial service was held on Tuesday April 7th at Taylor Lodge in Johns Creek. The family would like to thank the community for their overwhelming support. The Chamber of Commerce - President John Bemont, Operations Director Maria Rose and Board Chairman Susan Grissom most notably - but all of the staff, Board of Directors and chamber members. The City of Johns Creek - especially Mayor Mike Bodker. The Johns Creek Art Center, Civitan’s, Leadership and Taylor Lodge’s Bill Magyar and Mike Stapleton. A special thank you to Michelle and Ben Still. There are too many names to list and all of you are so appreciated.

Bond: Continued from Page 4 of Engineering John Cunard. “The state is managing this work, which will add one lane in each direction on 400 from McFarland Parkway to at least Bald Ridge Marina Road. It is our understanding from state officials that work on this project is expected to get underway later this year.” The county has sold the first $100 million in the transportation bonds, said Chief Financial Officer David Gruen. “We’ll have the money in hand at the end of the month to go to the state for Ga. 400 and start on the other group of projects,” Gruen said. “On the refunded bonds, the all-in total interest cost is 2.311 percent. On the $100 million, it goes out until 2035, the all-in total interest cost is 3.136 percent. You can tell the interest was strong.” The remaining $47 million of the initial transportation bonds will be used to have cash flow to move forward with

Norton: Continued from Page 20 ings; inch tiles; half of anything – half brick up the front, half-wide porches you can’t use, half the lighting you need, single-tile backsplash versus full backsplash. Buyers today are facing the reality of a new market. They are not quite as obsessed with finding “the deal of the century” but want to stretch their purchase dollar wherever

DEATH NOTICES Frances Black, 90, of Roswell, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Annie Mae Price, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away April 10, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

David D. Sprouse, 69, of Roswell, passed away April 7, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Paul Elijah Pruitt, 77, of Cumming, passed away April 6, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Johnny Vaughan, 69, of Cumming, passed away April 7, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Michael Kelly, 78, of Cumming, passed away April 12, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

James E. Rivas, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away April 14, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Leonard Abram Wilcox, IV, of Alpharetta, passed away April 12, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Frank Elbert Dills, 79, of Forsyth County, passed away April 13, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Peter Paul Martin, 49, of Forsyth County, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

David Brian Sigarto, 55, of Cumming, passed away April 6, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Ugonda Mae Wooten, 63, of Cumming, passed away April 8, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Mary L. D’Orazio, 86, of Cumming, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Donna Miller, 77, of Alpharetta, passed away April 14, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Eddie Ruth Silvers, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dolores Dent, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away April 14, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Louise Collins Gazaway, 80, of Cumming, passed away April 14, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Rev. A.B. Hatifeld, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Elaine Stone-Drummond, 47, of Alpharetta, passed away April 9, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

all of the projects based on a projected draw schedule, said Cunard. Also at their April 16 meeting, the commissioners voted to refund $64 million in parks, recreation and greenspace bonds in order to realize savings. The bond was approved by Forsyth County voters in 2008 to fund a wide variety of park projects. “We are refinancing the eligible outstanding parks, recreation and greenspace bonds at a lower interest rate to realize significant savings,” Gruen said. “Based on recent market conditions, we ended up with net presentvalue savings on the refunded bonds at just under $5 million. That’s particularly significant here because this is a general obligation bond, meaning it’s paid from only property taxes. That’s $5.8 million that will not need to come out of property taxes. Timing is important, and to be in that position to take advantage of that timing is very important.” For more information on the transportation bond, visit www.forsythco.com. possible. They are showing less willingness to wait and buying something to flip or renovate to better suit their needs. Foreclosure buys at the courthouses of Georgia are now selling at a 12 to 20 percent discount off market value versus 47 percent discount at the peak of distress. A new survey from the American Affluence Research Center found that the number of affluent Americans planning to make large purchases this year – including major home renovations – has finally returned to pre-recession levels. The survey polled more than 300 households with a minimum net worth of $800,000. Prior to 2008, respondents who had no plans to make large purchases held steady at around 45 percent. Since then, even the wealthiest Americans have tightened their belts, and that number rose to between 50 percent and 60 percent. Now, penny-pinchers are back to a 45 percent minority, meaning more than half of all of the affluent respondents – who represent the wealthiest 10 percent of American households – do plan to either remodel, upgrade to a new home, purchase a second (or third) home, buy a new car, go on a cruise or make another large purchase.

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COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | April 22, 2015 | 29 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Dog of the week: Oreo

Cat of the week: Bianco CUMMING, Ga. — Have you been looking for a sweet companion to bring a lot of love and giggles to your life? If laughs and love are what you’ve been missing, the Humane Society has the answer. This beautiful guy is Bianco, and he’s full of charm. Sweet and loving, he enjoys a good head scratching while he relaxes. When he has fully been recharged, be prepared to stand by and

FOUND: CAT

Off McFarland Rd, Alpharetta. Definitely someone's pet. Very friendly, gets along with some local strays, comes running at sound of canned food opened. Don 678-575-3227

watch, because he is a very energetic and entertaining player. String and toys will have his attention for a while, and he very fond of playing peek-a-boo with the cat tunnel. He has lots of love to give and a lot of playing to do. Meet Bianco at the adoption center Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5:00 p.m. at 4440 Keith Bridge Road. —Kathleen Sturgeon

CUMMING, Ga. — Oreo is a Labrador/American Staffordshire Terrier. She will be three-years-old in April. Some animals at the Humane Society have so much love to give but have come from such horrendous backgrounds that they require a special and experienced owner. Oreo is very eager to please her handlers and looks for continued leadership and guidance along her journey of rehabilitation from her tough background. She loves to exercise and run and shows huge amounts of appreciation for the basic necessities that the Humane Society of Forsyth County provides. She absolutely adores the positive reinforcement and genuine love that staff gives her on a daily basis. Visit Oreo at the HSFC dog building to meet a special and very deserving girl. Open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5:00 p.m. at 4440 Keith Bridge Road. —Kathleen Sturgeon


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32 | April 22, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com | Recycled paper

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