Forsyth Herald - April 26, 2018

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The Place of Forsyth receives mobile food pantry Board members from The Place of Forsyth cut the ribbon for the official opening of the organization’s mobile food pantry.

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Officer hospitalized after 143 mph chase 770-442-3278 | ForsythHerald.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 122 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 139 Northside Woman: ex. 102 Calendar: 122 TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL: News/Press Releases: NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar ADVERTISING QUESTIONS: General Advertising: ex. 101 advertising@appenmediagroup.com Classified Advertising: ex. 119 classifieds@appenmediagroup.com Circulation/Subscriptions/Delivery: ex. 100 circulation@appenmediagroup.com Our Weekly Publications

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A N N O U N C I N G

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta Police officer was hospitalized after he was injured pursuing a wanted man in a car chase that reached up to 143 mph and ended with a crash on Rucker Road.

The officer was treated and released with minor injuries.

The suspect, 49-year-old John K. Bolling, was charged with multiple offenses, including felony fleeing and eluding, speeding, reckless driving, DUI, failure to maintain lane, driving while unlicensed, failure to signal, driving on the wrong side of the road and failure to obey traffic control devices.

Police also discovered that the man had

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 dies in crash on Keith Bridge Road FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — One man is dead after a two-car crash occurred at 7:25 a.m. April 22 on Keith Bridge Road just east of Leland Drive.

According to Deputy First Class Phil Alexander, traffic investigator with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, Manuel Oblea-Suarez, 59, of Gainesville, was pronounced dead at Northeast Medical Center after being transported there by ambulance. An investigation has determined a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu was traveling east on Keith Bridge Road near Leland Drive when the Malibu crossed over the centerline hitting a westbound 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix.

The Pontiac was driven by Jose M. Flores, 28, of Gainesville, and the front seat passenger was Oblea-Suarez. Flores was also transported to Northeast Medical Center with non-life

T W O

N E W

two arrest warrants outstanding – one from Forsyth County for aggravated stalking, and one from Broward County, Fla. for DUI. The officer was patrolling south on Ga. 400 near Old Milton Parkway shortly before BOLLING 2 a.m. on Saturday, April 21 when he saw a car approach him from behind at 100 mph.

The car, a white Mercedes 200, swerved around the officer’s vehicle and slowed down to 65 mph. When police attempted to pull over the car, the Mercedes sped off once again, reaching up to 143 mph.

Officers pursued the driver into

Sandy Springs, where they exited at Abernathy Road, and continued back into Roswell through Ga. 9. Roswell police assisted in the chase.

Stop sticks, devices used to slow or stop vehicles, were placed at multiple locations, but the suspect managed to avoid them. During the chase, Bolling ran multiple red lights and stop signs and at times drove on the wrong side of the road, police said.

The chase ended when Bolling attempted to turn onto Rucker Road and a pursuing officer struck the Mercedes in the rear.

Bolling was arrested and taken to North Fulton Regional Hospital for treatment. The officer was likewise treated and released with minor injuries.

threatening injuries.

The Malibu was being operated by a 16-year-old from Cumming. His name is not being released because of his age. The 16-year-old was transported to Northeast Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Traffic Specialist Unit. Charges are pending after the outcome of the investigation.

were two other cases of cars burglarized that night in the same area.

No prints were lifted from the car but the phone was placed into evidence.

Man discovers iPhone after vehicle burglary FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man found a cell phone on the seat of his car when he noticed someone had burglarized the vehicle. The man reported the break-in after he saw both front doors and the rear hatch were open on his 2004 Dodge Durango.

Upon investigation, he noticed his glove box was open and it looked like someone went through his vehicle.

He said he didn’t see anything missing, but he found an iPhone on the driver’s seat that didn’t belong to him.

He brought it inside to charge it and then called the Sheriff’s Office. There

P O D C A S T S

F R O M

A P P E N

Gun stolen from car during church event FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — While attending an event at Midway Park, a man’s gun was stolen from his vehicle.

The man said the gun was in the driver’s side cubby on his Lincoln MKX, a mid-size crossover SUV. He said he put the gun in the cubby prior to attending the church event. He and his wife had been in and out of the car a few times during the event, and he said they may have left it unlocked at some point.

The car was also moved from a lower parking lot to the upper parking lot and he said his mother-in-law didn’t see the gun in the car when she was in it. He said he didn’t realize the gun was missing until he returned home in Cherokee County. The gun is a Smith and Wesson 9mm. No cameras were located where the car was parked. The gun was entered as stolen.

M E D I A

G R O U P

INSIDE THE BOX Inside the Box tells the stories of North Atlanta’s newest investigative journalism team, Black Box. Headquartered in Alpharetta, just north of Atlanta, this product of Appen Media Group investigates local stories that often times are a microcosm of a larger, sometimes national, conversation. Designed to encourage the listener to consider a new perspective or to think deeper, Inside the Box is a must have podcast for anyone who likes story telling, good journalism, and thoughtful conversations.

Lunch Break is a comedy podcast that focuses on food and the culinary industry. Hosts AJ McNaughton, Kathleen Sturgeon and special guests discuss food in the news, play games and try dishes they've never heard of before. Lunch Break is part of the Appen Media Group family of podcasts based in Alpharetta, Georgia.

To d o w n l o a d a n d s u b s c r i b e , v i s i t t h e i Tu n e s s t o r e , G o o g l e P l ay s t o r e o r S t i t c h e r a n d s e a r c h “ I n s i d e t h e B o x ” o r “ L u n c h B r e a k ”

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4 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

NEWS

Forsyth Schools seeks additional staff for safety

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools is hoping voters will approve the education bond referendum on the May 22 ballot so more staff can be hired to work with at-risk students.

At their April 17 meeting, the School Board heard from the district’s Chief Operations Officer Todd Shirley, who, among other duties, heads the School Safety Task Force which was commissioned by Superintendent Jeff Bearden and Sheriff Ron Freeman.

The task force was created in response to dialogue between school leaders and local emergency response experts, Shirley said.

“Stakeholders from school and emergency personal will continue to work cooperatively to ensure the most effective response to any emergency event that befalls the Forsyth County community,” Shirley said. “Our entire community owes (the task force) a debt of gratitude. As the director of school safety, I want to ensure everyone in our community the members of our office have always, will in the future, present and even in past thoughts, keep the safety of our students as the No. 1

priority.”

Shirley and his staff are on call 24/7 and are open and available to meeting with the public to discuss school safety methods. Additionally, Freeman said they are working to place a school resource officer at every school, with one currently at all high and middle schools and most county elementary schools.

The task force recently completed a comprehensive safety assessment of all Forsyth County school campuses/ facilities and procedures, Shirley said.

They came back with recommendations for the school board broken down into three categories: facilities, staffing and training/support.

Bearden recommended moving $5 million in the proposed May 22 Bond Referendum from the facilities category into school safety.

“If our bond is approved in May by citizens, this will give a total of $7 million in school safety,” Bearden said.

The additional funding will help implement recommendations from the task force, he said, adding there are other issues to address in school safety.

“The greatest challenge is that we have students in crisis throughout our nation who believe that harming themselves, others or both is a viable

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option,” Bearden said. “We have to change that mindset. We want all our children to come to school every day with a sense of purpose and belonging.

In dealing with these issues and their lives, we want all our students to know we are there for them, whether for help, support or, when necessary, provide resources of them and their families.

We want our students to be good to themselves and one another, and to look out for one another.”

To do that, the task force is recommending additional staff to better serve students. For now, six people are slated to be hired to work exclusively with high-risk students. This is to relieve staff members and counselors and social workers from added responsibilities so they can devote their time to their core duties.

“There are so many kids that need that extra pat on the back and support,” Shirley said. “We’re not just proposing this in high school, but in K-12 and beyond. We have students who graduated who we probably need to follow.”

The six employees would be assigned a group of schools and speak with counselors and social workers to compile a list of at-risk students. The new staff would have a case load of

pupils and design sessions according to individual needs.

“Next to the ‘see something, say something’ campaign, it is most important to have professionals on board to make sure from an early age to check on students who have behaviors that put them ‘at risk,’” Bearden said.

“Those kids need a constant adult in their lives. Often they just need to know an adult at school cares about them.

It’s not that we don’t do it now. We just aren’t able to do it as intensely as the task force recommended we should be doing it.”

Shirley, Bearden and Freeman all stressed the “see something, say something” mentality and urge those with concerns to contact Campus Crime Stoppers, visit forsyth.k12. ga.us/Page/635 or call the hotline at 770-205-4625 to make an anonymous report.

“We should all recognize there are no immediate fixes to our troubles in the ever-growing society,” Shirley said.

“But we will not relax in our efforts to protect our greatest asset, the children of Forsyth County. That’s what our task force is committed to do.”

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Keep Forsyth County Beautiful earns local, state praise

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Keep Forsyth County Beautiful was recently honored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for its “exceptional work and community involvement.”

At the April 19 meeting, the County Commission added to the accolades.

Keep Forsyth County Beautiful is a local affiliate of the national Keep America Beautiful and the state Keep Georgia Beautiful programs. It was established in 1994.

The core focus areas of the program are waste reduction and recycling, beautification and community greening, litter prevention and water conservation and water quality.

Commission Chairman Todd Levent said the group has consistently earned the President’s Seal Award by meeting all requirements for the certificate affiliate of the national program.

In addition, the group was recognized by Gov. Nathan Deal and received the 2017 Governor’s Seal Award for being among the top affiliates for the state, Levent said.

In March, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources presented the group with the 2017 Wa-

tershed Award for exceeding standards in implementing the five Adopt-a-Stream goals. Those goals include: • Increase public awareness to the state’s water issues • Collect quality water data • Gather observation • Encourage partnerships between citizens and their local government • Provide citizens with the tools and training to evaluate and protect their local waterways “Each year KFCB continues to enhance the health, safety and economic violability of Forsyth County by empowering hundreds of local volunteers to take greater responsibility for litter prevention and cleanup, recycling and solid waste reduction, community greening and water quality,” Levent said.

Additionally, KFCB volunteers Ralph Cromer and Andres Torres received the Georgia Department of Natural Resources 2017 Innovation in Adopt-AStream Award for a remote watering station they built.

KFCB Community Outreach Specialist Kevin Smith was awarded the Georgia Department of Natural Resources 2017 Rivers Alive Organizer of the Year award for his efforts in organizing and conducting waterway cleanups in Forsyth County.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 5

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Let Us Connect You Alpharetta-Roswell Herald Delivers to 28,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30005, 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076. Alpharetta & Roswell’s primary news source. Est. 1983.

Alpharetta’s paper of record.

Johns Creek Herald Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record.

Northside Woman 18,000 copies distributed monthly to subdivisions and business in North Fulton and South Forsyth with home delivery to 40+ of the most exclusive gated and estate communities in North Atlanta.

Forsyth Herald Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30040, 30041.

Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Milton Herald Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006.

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6 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com 6 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | NorthFulton.com/BlackBox

The evolution of BLACK BOX SPECIAL REPORT: MARIJUANA’S HAZY BOUNDARIES PART I

About the project Marijuana use has changed dramatically in recent years.

Lawmakers, law enforcement agencies and the public have all taken a new look at the drug’s potential benefits.

About a half dozen states have legalized adult recreational use in recent years, while all but six allow some forms of medical marijuana use. Even traditionally conservative states such as Georgia have supported some measures to allow for medical marijuana use.

Meanwhile, Americans’ views on the drug are changing. A 2017 Gallup poll revealed that 64 percent support the legalization of recreational marijuana use, nearly double that of the same poll conducted 15 years ago.

These debates are also present at the local level.

Last year, the Atlanta City Council approved a measure that drastically reduced the charges for possessing under one ounce of marijuana. Soon after, a similar measure was presented before a North Fulton city council.

Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies contend with marijuana possession on a daily basis, each with a particular approach to handing possession of small amounts of the drug.

Our Black Box series, “Marijuana’s Hazy Boundaries,” will take a deep look into the legislation, challenges presented to local law enforcement agencies and the drug’s use at the national and state level, as well as its impact in North Fulton and Forsyth County.

The series will delve into how marijuana is consumed, the history of legislation at the local level and discrepancies among local law enforcement agencies on how they process individuals in possession of small amounts of the substance.

– Joe Parker

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com

LISTEN ONLINE

NORTH FULTON/FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Marijuana – and people’s perception of the plant – has changed since it first found footing in the international market more than 100 years ago.

Global attitudes toward the plant and its psychoactive properties have become even more fluid over the past two decades, particularly in the United States.

Marijuana and its derivatives are now legal for medical uses in all but six states and has been legalized for recreational use in eight states and Washington D.C. While a growing number of Americans favor liberalized laws governing the use of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, many lawmakers and law enforcement agencies remain opposed.

In 2015, the Georgia General Assembly passed legislation allowing the possession of low-THC oils by residents suffering from eight ailments. In the 2018 legislative session, chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder were added to the list of permitted uses.

While possession of cannabis oils for medical use is permitted for qualified patients, cultivation of marijuana in the state remains illegal.

Want to hear more of the story? Visit NorthFulton.com/ Podcasts and listen to the “Inside the Box” podcast.

In North Fulton, marijuana use and trafficking does not appear to be at crisis levels, at least according to local law enforcement officials.

Authorities have devoted more focus recently to harder drugs, opioids in particular.

Law enforcement departments in Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Forsyth County formed a drug task force earlier this year, pooling resources from all three agencies to track and combat the opioid trade that has swelled in the area.

As far as marijuana, police in Alpharetta and Milton say users discovered in their cities are usually found with small amounts, and generally the marijuana is discovered during traffic stops.

Alpharetta Public Safety Director John Robison said felony arrests for marijuana are infrequent.

“In day-to-day operations, we will occasionally make felony arrests where

[a suspect] has a large amount or we charge with intent to distribute, but even then, it may not be a trafficker but someone just selling dope on the side,” Robison said.

Local law enforcement agencies enforce marijuana laws that mirror the state’s approach, though recent discussions in one North Fulton city called for drastically reducing the charges for suspects apprehended with less than one ounce of the drug. The measure was similar to an ordinance passed by the Atlanta City Council last year.

Records from police in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell and Forsyth County show that from September 2016 to September 2017, nearly 600 people were either arrested or cited for possessing under one ounce of marijuana where there were no other major offenses.

Getting high and how marijuana affects the body Marijuana has become significantly more potent in the last two decades, and alternative forms, from edibles, oils and topical applications, have gained popularity.

The use of marijuana falls into two distinct categories — recreation and medical use.

Marijuana’s recreational use, consumed or smoked to produce a plea-

FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

On March 22, the Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Forsyth Drug Task Force executed a search warrant on Manor Park Drive in Forsyth County. During a search of the home, they located, among other items, THC Oil.

On Oct. 3, 2017, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office’s Narctoics Unit recovered several bags of suspected drug-laced “Gummy Bears” found alongside children’s treats in the refrigerator during a search on a suspected drug dealer’s home in South Forsyth.

NorthFulton.com/BlackBox | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 7

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 7

marijuana ALPHARETTA PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT

Edibles, such as THC-laced Fruity Pebbles cereal that were confiscated during a traffic stop by Alpharetta Police, have gained popularity over traditional leaf forms.

surable “high,” can be attributed to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol in the plant. Much of the THC is concentrated in the buds and leaves and is significantly lower in the stems and seeds.

When marijuana is ingested, the THC enters the bloodstream and is distributed to the brain and “overactivates” cell receptors to produce a high.

Smoking marijuana allows the THC to enter the bloodstream almost immediately while ingesting it usually results in a delayed effect.

In recent years it has become easier to obtain a more pronounced high with less of the drug due to its rise in potency.

A recent University of Mississippi study found that the levels of THC in marijuana tripled between 1995 and 2014.

Though long-term scientific studies have been conducted on recreational marijuana use and its effects on cognitive abilities, some of the data have been contradictory. A 2012 study conducted in New Zealand concluded that adolescents who use marijuana can lose IQ points that will not be recovered later in life. Conversely, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that marijuana’s impact on cognitive ability diminished for just three days after use.

ALPHARETTA PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT

Suspects often use creative means to hide marijuana. In September of last year, Alpharetta police discovered baggies of marijuana hidden inside a paint can with a false bottom.

Records from police in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell and Forsyth County show that from September 2016 to September 2017, nearly 600 people were either arrested or cited for possessing under one ounce of marijuana where there were no other major offenses.

On the medical side, cannabidiol and low-THC oils have become a popular alternative to prescription drugs in treating certain serious medical ailments or diseases. Medical marijuana can also be used by patients suffering from end-stage cancer and other terminal diseases to help mitigate the pain associated with the disease.

Forms of marijuana and what local law enforcement are seeing Alternative forms of marijuana, including edibles, oils, topical extracts, electronic cigarette liquids and other forms, are gaining popularity.

A recent study conducted by Arcview Market Research on consumption in states where recreational use is legal found a sharp increase in use of alternative forms of marijuana.

After recreational use was permitted in Colorado in 2012, the study found that the growth of non-leaf forms of the drug have outpaced traditional flower sales.

In 2016, barely over half – 56 percent – of recreational sales came from dried flowers. Edibles more than tripled in sales the same year.

While the popularity of alternative forms of marijuana may be growing

in other areas, local law enforcement agencies are still confiscating mainly leaf forms.

“Most of the arrests we make in our uniform operations are still pretty much leaf form,” said Alpharetta’s Robison. “We will see some liquid or butters or things like that every once and a while, but for the most part it’s still pretty standard [forms].”

Milton Police Chief Rich Austin said the same.

“We really have not seen an increase in oils or other forms of marijuana to a great extent,” he said.

However, Robison said that detecting alternative forms of marijuana can be challenging.

“Sometimes when you pull a car over, the window opens and the smell of marijuana reeks,” he said. “But some of the other substances might not be as strong. There is no perfect training or perfect amount of training you can do, but we try to keep our officers up to date on current trends, new trends that are coming and things to look out for.”

Part two of Marijuana’s hazy boundaries will cover the history of marijuana legislation in Georgia and a push to decriminalize possession of small amounts in North Fulton.

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

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OPINION

Is social media blocking the same as censoring?

I recently read your article in the Herald about censoring constituents.

First, thank you for writing on such an interesting and engaging topic. My husband and I recently started reading and talking about local articles over Saturday morning breakfast, and this will be a great one to discuss!

In your article, you said, “A basic First Amendment principal set out by the United States Supreme Court is that when the government creates a public forum, it cannot then discriminate or censor people based on their viewpoint.” You also compared censoring someone on social media to a politician only inviting people with his or her views to a town hall meeting. I do understand that blocking someone only for differing views is wrong, and unconstitutional. However, I do think that there should be a way that a politician can block someone who leaves malicious comments that may turn a whole thread into a name-calling, bullying affair. Just because a politician has blocked someone before does not mean that they are censoring people. It could also mean they are trying to keep the conversation civil so that all voices can be heard, above the maliciousness that can come with social media.

When there is a town hall meeting, I am sure there are rules for how to behave and voice opinions that attendees are asked to follow. When someone does not follow them, they are probably not kicked out immediately, but if they begin to get malicious and disturb the peace, that is when it seems it would be constitutional and right to have the

If social media is to be used as a positive way to include more voices, there SHOULD be constitutionally sound ways to enforce rules of behavior on that media, and blocking someone might be a part of that. person escorted out. The whole point of creating a public forum, in person or online, would seem to be for differing voices and opinions to be heard. That purpose gets lost, both in person and online, when the forum is disrupted by degrading, bullying behavior or comments. If social media is to be used as a positive way to include more voices, there SHOULD be constitutionally sound ways to enforce rules of behavior on that media, and blocking someone might be a part of that. I do see that this is not an easy fix, and that there should be clear guidelines for what kind of behavior should be “blockable” so that the rule is applied fairly.

Perhaps these guidelines should also be made public on social media so that people are aware what kind of comments would get them blocked.

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SCHOOLS

10 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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The 2018 Optimist oratorical winners are, from left, Arnav Rao, South Forsyth High School; Arnav Hande, South Forsyth Middle School; Shreya Mishra, South Forsyth Middle School; and Kate O’Rourke, Pinecrest Middle School.

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CUMMING, Ga. — Four young orators will represent Forsyth County in the 2018 Optimist International Oratorical Contest. They were the winners in the county-wide competition that began with students from throughout the county. The top two girls and top two boys move on to compete in the zone competition. The local event is sponsored by the Sawnee-Cumming and Forsyth-Cumming Optimist Clubs.

Winning the county competition were Shreya Mishra, in eighth grade at South Forsyth Middle School; Kate O’Rourke, eighth grader at Pinecrest Middle; Arnav Hande, seventh grader at South Forsyth Middle; and Arnav Rao, a sophomore at South Forsyth High School. They each won $500 awards.

Winners in the zone competition move on to the area, then district (Georgia and eastern Tennessee) contests. Win-

ners at the district level receive $2,500 college scholarships.

The competition is open to sixth through 12th-grade students from all Forsyth middle and high schools. A separate competition in Forsyth County allows fifth-grade students to gain experience. Speeches cover a variety of subjects. This year the students spoke on “Where Are My Roots of Optimism?”

The Oratorical contest is the longest running Optimist program, established in 1928, according to Gene Valde, oratorical committee chair of the Sawnee-Cumming club. “We had over 4,800 students participating in the Forsyth County competition,” she said.

“Our local competition is the largest in the Optimist organization. And for the last two years, a Forsyth student has advanced to the regional finals in St. Louis - we expect no less this year.”

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12 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — It came as some surprise to North Forsyth Middle School teacher Maleah Stewart last year when she was named 2017 Forsyth County Teacher of the Year.

Now she’s dealing with another surprise.

Stewart recently was notified that she is a 2019 Georgia Teacher of the Year finalist.

But it’s true. Stewart is one of 10 Georgia teachers who were named finalists after they completed an application which included five essays, a personal biography and a resume. She finished the application late last December and waited until they announced the finalists in the spring.

The winner will be announced May 19.

“I was a little shocked when I got an email from the state saying I was a finalist,” Stewart said. “I was at home that night and I was checking my email on my phone before I went to bed. All I could see was the subject line that said ‘2019 Georgia Teacher of the Year finalists.’ I couldn’t read anything else because I didn’t have my glasses on. I thought, ‘oh man, they already announced it.’ My assumption at that point was I didn’t win. About 10-15 minutes later I got my glasses, pulled it back up and realized I was one of them.”

She had to quickly gather herself

See TEACHER, Page 28

NEWS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 13

Forsyth County welcomes new assistant county manager

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County recently welcomed Garrin Coleman as its new assistant county manager.

He will oversee operations of the county’s Engineering, Recycling & Solid Waste, Fleet Services and Public Facilities departments. He will also serve as the executive manager for all transportation related activities and responsibilities, and will be the county’s key contact with the Georgia Department of Transportation.

Coleman officially began work April 9 and brings more than 20 years of experience in engineering and transportation related roles. He served most recently as director of Public Works for Sandy Springs, through a contract with AECOM, a position he held since 2012. Prior to that he served as deputy director of Public Works, capital program manager and the contracted Transportation Planning Division manager for Sandy Springs and worked as a land development manager with Lowes Engineers, LLC. “When I saw this job as advertised, it showed a lot of the professional development I had in my career to date as far as managing engineering design,” Coleman said. “They wanted someone who had a lot of experience in local government. I had it at the municipal level, and this is my first foray into county management. I saw this as a great opportunity to take that next step as part of the executive team. What’s not to like about Forsyth County?”

Coleman had visited Forsyth County many times when his children were playing baseball.

“I’d been to many of the parks, my brother and sister-in-law used to live off Post Road, my niece and nephew graduated from West Forsyth High School,” he said. “So I’ve been FORSYTH COUNTY GOVERNMENT/SPECIAL and visited the area Garrin Coleman started worka lot. When I came ing with Forsyth County as to interview, I felt assistant county manager on like there was good April 9. chemistry with the deputy county manager and county manager. They both described a great opportunity to continue my professional development. The county is a beautiful place with great amenities.”

Coleman had lots of responsibilities in past jobs, including interacting with regional partners and providing services not only externally to citizens, but internally inside the city.

Later on in his career as a director, he oversaw all the projects underway in Public Works which in-

cluded storm water unit, traffic, transportation, capital improvement plan, field services and geographic information system. Sandy Springs also passed a TSPLOST measure in 2016, which also fell under Coleman’s responsibility.

He said the county’s transportation network also drew him in.

“I could tell it’s well managed,” Garrin said. “Maintenance is part of it and kept up. I enjoy the complexity of the issues that are presented every day and helping people while impacting the community.”

Only a couple weeks into the job, Coleman said he is “still in learning mode.”

“I like to say we’re ‘drinking from a firehose,’” he said. “I met with the directors I oversee and none of them have been here fewer than 10 years. That’s a good resource to be able to get the background and history. I’ve been completing field visits with the directors. We’ll also be meeting about the Comprehensive Transportation Plan document. I’ll be interested to see what that process has brought forward and how that could potentially impact the upcoming SPLOST. It’s a lot of learning.”

He’s still developing his goals and said he’ll have more finalized plans as he goes.

“I believe your goals should align with the vision of the county,” he said. “That’s should manage your dayto-day operations to be a good steward of the tax dollars to make sure they’re spent and accounted for in a responsible manner. You should be able to respond to your constituents in a timely manner. There’s a positive energy surrounding this community.”

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14 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

The Place of Forsyth receives mobile food pantry

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Place of Forsyth, which assists local families with emergency basic needs, is expanding its services to help more people thanks to the donation of a mobile food pantry by the 2018 Leadership Forsyth class.

The mobile pantry was opened April 19. Carrie Hamilton, one of the project managers for the class of 2018, said the idea came about from a field of nine proposed projects.

“It was a need we saw in the community,” Hamilton said. “One of the parts of Leadership Forsyth is having a servant’s heart and being able to give back to the community. This will be a great thing for The Place of Forsyth to use this in other ways, even beyond the mobile pantry.”

The Place of Forsyth Director Joni Smith said they serve roughly 200 families a week through their food pantry.

They will now be able to help clients who are unable to arrange transporta-

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tion to The Place.

She said there are about 275 families identified around Forsyth County Schools who need help from The Place.

As of today, the most families The Place has served in a weekend is about 160 before food has run out.

“The community gets to simulate the same client choice market the other clients who come to us get to utilize,” Smith said. “They will be greeted by volunteers, meander through the trailer, pick off the shelves and select the foods their family prefers. It will also give us time to build a community with the folks who have needs. Through that, we will find out what else they need. There are a lot of benefits by bringing folks who have less than us into the community.”

Three years ago, the pantry was redone as a “client choice” so those in need can come in and “shop” the aisles like they would in a grocery store. The mobile pantry is set up the same way.

“You get a shopping cart and shop like you were in Publix,” Smith said. “In fact, Publix helped us redo the pantry

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The mobile food pantry is set up to feed many of the local families who are unable to drive to shelters for food and supplies. and helped with the shelving. You pick the foods you need for your family. We have a limit and points system, but it’s easy to do.”

The pantries are set up this way for a couple reasons. Before the client choice method, The Place would gather certain items and put them into bags for people to collect. This caused issues for families with food allergies or picky children.

“We are better stewards of the donations people bring us by letting people pick their food,” Smith said. “There was a jar of peanut butter in every bag, every week. A lot of people have sensitivity or allergies. The same goes for soups. If you have a house full of kids, they may all like chicken noodle but we give you New England clam chowder.”

The old system also fell short in building relationships, Smith said,

because it takes the volunteer a few seconds to hand a bag of food.

“When you’re shopping, volunteers can talk with you and learn what’s going on, where you live, what are your struggles, if you’re looking for a job and we can help,” Smith said. “It’s a way to build community.”

Another benefit to the client choice option is to give those shopping their dignity back.

“Everybody is the same,” Smith said. “Clients that need our food are no different from you or me. We have the luxury of being able to stop at any grocery store today and get whatever we need. They do not have that luxury.

One situation, illness or car wreck and people can be set back. There is dignity and respect in allowing them to have the normalcy we have. Plus it’s just the right thing to do.”

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 15

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16 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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My mom is special because she always listens and doesn’t judge or try to “fix” me. She is my best girlfriend. She has told me she wanted nothing more than to have kids and be a great mom. She had five kids and I have so many fond memories. We had a garden, sandbox, homemade baseball diamond and a pool in our backyard that made so many awesome times. She taught me to be an individual.

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[Bland] has the vision, energy and leadership skills that will allow the chamber to continue to grow.”

KALI BOATRIGHT, GNFCC president and CEO 18 | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018

Greater North Fulton Chamber names Bland chairman for 2019

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. —The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce has named Bill Bland, senior vice president of Business Development for Choate Construction Company, as chairman-elect.

Bland will succeed current chamber Chairman Jeff Petrea on Jan. 1.

“Bill Bland has been active in growing revenue and awareness of the GNFCC through committee leadership for the past three years,” said chamber President and CEO Kali Boatright. “He has the vision, energy and leadership skills that will allow the chamber to continue to grow.”

Bland said he is honored to take on the job, and he hopes to help create, sustain and expand economic activity.

“Economic expansion elevates our collective standard of living and fosters our ability to care for the community, and the Greater North Fulton Chamber is a leader in economic and community development,” he said.

Bland has been with Choate for 24 years and was a project manager before joining the executive management team of the company.

He is responsible for originating and implementing a business development and sales strategy at Choate. He also focuses on procuring projects which fit the company’s experience and qualifications. On select projects, he works

with the preconstruction team to review plans and offer input into the program and schedule.

Prior to joining Choate, Bland was a principal and project manager for Wood, Morris & Bland where he was involved in the design and construction of numerous healthcare-related projects across the country.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia Southern University, and he is also a graduate of Georgia College and State University, where he received his MBA. Bland is active in several civic and professional associations. He is past president of CoreNet Global and Real Estate Group of Atlanta and is an active member of the National Association of Industrial

and Office Properties, Georgia Assisted Living Federation of America and the Urban Land Institute. He is an executive board member of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce where he has been a member for BLAND 16 years.

“Bland will play an integral role in not only bringing vision for 2019, but also passion in furthering the chamber’s influence in business and the community,” Petrea said. “I am really looking forward to working alongside him next year knowing that the GNFCC will be in good hands.”

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Metcam representatives accept the 2018 Manufacturer of the Year award.

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Best Deal Movers, LLC, recently opened its new company headquarters at 3615 Francis Circle in Alpharetta. Offering secure storage to the Atlanta metropolitan area, the new facility will house Best Deal Movers’ base of operations and a 15,000 square foot vault storage warehouse.

In addition to local and long-distance moves, the company also provides full-service packing, loading and unloading services; vaulted storage, and packing supplies for both residential and commercial moving needs.

They welcome walk-in customers who wish to purchase their own supplies as well.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Emory Eye Center, Georgia’s largest eye care facility, opened a new office at Emory Johns Creek Hospital April 4.

The clinic is located at 6335 Hospital Parkway in Suite 311 of Physicians Plaza at Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

“We’re thrilled to add more exam rooms to our clinic and offer longer hours to better meet the needs of the community of Johns Creek,” Allen D. Beck, MD, interim chair and director, Emory Eye Center said.

Emory Eye Center at Johns Creek is open weekdays 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 404778-2020.

2018

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — At a luncheon held on April 12, Gov. Nathan Deal named Metcam, located in Forsyth County, as the winner of the 2018 Manufacturer of the Year award in the category of Small Manufacturer with fewer than 150 employees.

The Governor’s Manufacturing Awards were held in culmination of the 24 annual Manufacturing Appreciation Week of Georgia. The three winning companies were nominated by business and civic leaders and chosen for their excellence and contributions to the state’s economy and their respective local communities.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 19

Augusta has more than The Masters with U.S. Cyber Command installation

Smartphones can hamper productivity

When we think of Augusta, Ga., I know the first thing that comes to mind: the home of James Brown, Godfather of Soul.

Right?

I guess there is that golf tourGEOFF SMITH nament that I got Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com away with spending an entire day on the couch watching a couple weeks ago — the Masters.

But there is another thing in Augusta I’m becoming focused on that most of you have not heard of: Augusta is the headquarters of the U.S. Army’s Cyber Command. For the Army, this is ground zero for all cyber attacks made against, and by, the United States.

The headquarters was built in 2016 and was followed up by a $60 millioncampus that is the state’s “centerpiece for cyber security research and development,” according to an article in the AJC. The campus, known as The Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center, will help train the workforce for the Army’s headquarters, and will also incubate startups in the same field.

I am fortunate enough to sit in on the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce’s Talent Coalition. We study workforce trends in the technology and healthcare industries in North Fulton, and then work with our universities and schools to make sure they are aware of the demands from our local businesses.

The idea is to produce students who have the skills companies in our area require. There are several very smart CTO’s that have been involved

Do you spend a lot of time checking your smartphone?

Does this continual behavior have an impact on your productivity? While a smartphone provides you instant access to email, text DICK JONES messages, social Founder & President Jones Simply Sales media and other information, managing the time you spend on your smartphone can help improve productivity.

Statistics indicate that 70 percent of smartphone owners check their smartphone within an hour of getting up, and 56 percent check their phone within an hour of going to sleep. Even more astounding, close to half of smartphone owners said they would experience “a great deal of anxiety” if they lost their smartphone for a week.

With so much access to information, it can almost be a full-time job making sure you don’t miss anything on your smartphone. And while you’re checking your smartphone all the time, other important things probably aren’t getting done. So what do you do about this?

Get off your smartphone!

In addition to avoiding the physical implications of creating a “text neck” by continually looking at your phone and straining your neck by doing so, your mind is also impacted. Limit your smartphone usage to times where it can help your productivity, like looking up information on the internet for a project you are working on. The smartphone will go down in history as a device that has helped us communicate more efficiently, but also may have the distinction of downgrading our productivity and creativity. Spending too much time on your smartphone? Stop it!

A N N O U N C I N G

When I was growing up, life was pretty simple. We didn’t like Russia and they didn’t like us.

And everyone else kind of watched us maneuver each other and it all seemed pretty visible. on our committee and I’ve learned a lot.

One of the things I learned is that the tech guys in the security divisions are typically the smartest of the bunch. Most tech guys only have to learn the kind of coding that their company considers standard. But those in the security side of things have to know every kind of coding.

In March we hosted a Cyber Technology Summit where our guest speaker was Ronald W. Pontius, deputy to the Commanding General of U.S. Army Cyber Command.

He said that his office fights off hundreds of millions of cyber attacks every month. He happened to be speaking the same day that the City of Atlanta announced an attack that ultimately shut the city down for six days. (We have a knack at the chamber for having guests at just the right time. We had the state transportation director speak the morning of Snow-

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mageddon in 2014).

Pontius said that cyber attacks are a bigger threat to our national security than terrorism.

Knowing all of that, it’s really pretty great for our state to have that headquarters and that college campus in Augusta. It will bring some of the best talent in technology to Georgia.

When I was growing up, life was pretty simple. We didn’t like Russia and they didn’t like us. And everyone else kind of watched us maneuver each other and it all seemed pretty visible.

Today there is so much information out there that it is hard to keep up with what’s true and to understand who our enemies actually are.

Whereas most of the jockeying for power back then seemed to be done out in the open, today we are fighting three million little battles a day behind closed doors on computers.

All while I’m Googling the stats of Georgia’s intra-squad spring day football game.

It’s a fast-paced and unknown world we are in. But give credit to our officials running this state. Georgia has once again positioned itself at the epicenter of one of the most critical industries on the planet.

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

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

P O D C A S T S

F R O M

A P P E N

M E D I A

G R O U P

INSIDE THE BOX Inside the Box tells the stories of North Atlanta’s newest investigative journalism team, Black Box. Headquartered in Alpharetta, just north of Atlanta, this product of Appen Media Group investigates local stories that often times are a microcosm of a larger, sometimes national, conversation. Designed to encourage the listener to consider a new perspective or to think deeper, Inside the Box is a must have podcast for anyone who likes story telling, good journalism, and thoughtful conversations.

Lunch Break is a comedy podcast that focuses on food and the culinary industry. Hosts AJ McNaughton, Kathleen Sturgeon and special guests discuss food in the news, play games and try dishes they've never heard of before. Lunch Break is part of the Appen Media Group family of podcasts based in Alpharetta, Georgia.

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20 Herald | ForsythHerald.com

18 || April April 26, 26, 2018 2018 || Forsyth Johns Creek Herald | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR

ROCK FOR RESCUES

Combining Milton’s love of music and animals, this new free, community festival on Broadwell Road will showcase a variety of local rock bands, including Chip McGuire Band, a slow boat to china, Pony League and linnie & amy joy. Food trucks will be available. All proceeds will benefit local pet rescue organizations. Join the fun Saturday, April 28, from noon-6 p.m. on Broadwell Road in Milton. For more information, visit rockforrescues.org.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

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

EVENTS: DREAM WEAVERS SPRING BAZAAR What: Enjoy light refreshments while browsing numerous local vendors and visiting Ashley Marie, a nonprofit home decor and gift boutique. All proceeds benefit foster children in Georgia.

When: Friday, April 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: The Kalen Center, 201 Vaughan Drive, Alpharetta More info: ashleymariegifts.com CPR CLASS What: Participants must be at least 12 years old and Johns Creek residents. The classes hold up to 20 people.

When: Saturday, April 28, 8 a.m.

Where: Temporary City Hall, 10700 Abbotts Bridge Road, Suite 190, Johns Creek More info and registration: johnscreekga.gov FREE FITNESS IN THE PARK: YOGA What: Join for a free group exercise focusing on yoga. All classes are weather permitting and are open to the public.

When: Saturday, April 28, 9-10 a.m.

Where: Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com DENIM & DIAMONDS What: Enjoy the 2018 Food Truck Wars, featuring some of the best food trucks in the South. There will be live music, auctions and food. Proceeds benefit Children’s Charities.

When: Saturday, April 28, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Shannondale Farm, 2395 Birmingham Road, Milton Cost: $100 per person More info: childrenscharitiesga.org/events DEA DRUG TAKE BACK DAY What: Safely dispose of expired, unused or unwanted medications. Locations will be announced closer to the date.

When: Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: TBA More info: cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2527 RECYCLING COLLECTION What: See a full list of electronic items accepted at no charge online.

When: Saturday, April 28, 9 a.m.-noon Where: Alpharetta Department of Public Works, 1790 Hembree Road, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

GARDEN FAIRE What: The North Fulton Master Gardeners is hosting their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Come see gardening demos, shop garden selections, hear live music and find flea market treasures.

When: Saturday, April 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell More info: nfmg.net ROSWELL MOVES! What: Canton Street in Roswell will be converted into a one-day park. Join for food, fun, races, bike rides, live music and more.

When: Sunday, April 29 Where: Canton Street, Roswell More info: bikeroswell.com ALPHARETTA CANDIDATES DEBATE FORUM What: Learn about the candidates for Alpharetta Mayor and their positions on important issues.

When: Tuesday, May 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us REVOLUTIONARY WAR LECTURE What: This month’s lecture is on “The Revolutionary War in South Carolina and Georgia,” by Robert Jones.

When: Wednesday, May 2, 7-9 p.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell Cost: $5 suggested donation More info: roswellgov.com FULTON GOLDEN GAMES What: For over 20 years, the Fulton Golden Games has helped mature adults stay physically active, socially engaged, and competitive, thus improving their quality of life.

When: Opening Ceremony Wednesday, April 25, 8 a.m-5 p.m.; events through May 25 Where: Bell Memorial Park, 15245 Bell Park Road, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us ROSWELL AZALEA FESTIVAL What: Celebrate the beauty of Roswell during the springtime and to the abundant azaleas.

Activities include plant sales, art exhibits, bicycle races, comedy night and more.

When: Through April 30 Where: Multiple locations across Roswell More info: roswellazaleafestival.com

TASTE OF ALPHARETTA What: Dine at over 60 restaurants in one night while listening to live bands on stage.

Sample appetizers, entrees and desserts from the best restaurants in town.

When: Thursday, May 3, 5-10 p.m.

Where: Historic Downtown Alpharetta Cost: Samples are typically $1-3 More info: awesomealpharetta.com ATLANTA BIRD FEST What: Exclusive, bird-centered field trips, workshops and speakers for both casual and experienced nature and bird observers.

When: April 14-May 20 Where: Multiple locations throughout the metro Atlanta area More info: atlantaaudubon.org/atlanta-birdfest GARDEN TOUR MONDAYS What: Enjoy a free 30-minute tour of the gardens and historic plants on the grounds of Barrington Hall.

When: Every Monday, through Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

FOOD & COOKING: OPEN-HEARTH COOKING What: Living history interpreter and openhearth cooking expert, Clarissa Clifton, will demonstrate making traditional Southern food.

When: Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Smith Plantation, 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com CULINARY FANTASTIQUE What: Learn about food from around the world, how to prepare it, cooking techniques and more. Proceeds benefit the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra.

When: Saturday, April 28, 6 p.m.

Where: Publix, 4305 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $75 More info and tickets: ccsalim38@yahoo.com or 678-313-1094 TURKISH FOOD FESTIVAL What: There will be a rich selection of healthy Mediterranean foods, traditional Turkish coffee and tea, baklava, and more.

When: April 28-29, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Where: Milton Office Park, 591 North Main Street, Milton More info: awesomealpharetta.com

FARMERS MARKETS, FOOD TRUCKS: ALPHARETTA FOOD TRUCK ALLEY What: Alpharetta’s weekly gathering returns with rotating food trucks and music each week. Six to eight food trucks from the Atlanta area will come out to help kick off the weekend early.

When: Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., through Oct. 11 Where: Old Roswell Street in Alpharetta’s historic district More info: awesomealpharetta.com

ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET What: The Alpharetta Farmers Market features fruits, vegetables, natural meats, fresh flowers and herbs, and a variety of home goods.

When: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., through October Where: Old Canton Street in downtown Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us ROSWELL FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET What: Don’t miss the opening day of the Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market. Mix and mingle with friends, shop for fresh items and enjoy talking to the vendors.

When: Saturday, April 14, 8 a.m. – noon Where: Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St., Roswell More info: roswellfam.com

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:

“THE JUNGLE BOOK” What: This new adaptation finds a child lost in the Indian jungle, where he is adopted by Baloo the Bear, Bagheera the Panther.

When: April 28, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets are $10 More info and tickets: get.org DANE HILDRETH BAND What: Soul, Hip Hop and acoustic artist Dane Hildreth brings a blend of old and new to his audiences as part of the Azalea Festival. Rain or shine.

When: Sunday, April 29, 1-4 p.m.

Where: Smith Plantation, 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com ROCK & ROLL REVOLUTION What: The Chorale will sing the hits of Queen, U2, the Beatles and more, with special guest John Burke.

When: Sunday, April 29, 3 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $15 More info: thejohnscreekchorale.com “BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY” What: “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” tells the true story of Buddy’s meteoric rise to fame, from the moment in 1957 when “That’ll Be The Day” hit the airwaves until his tragic death less than two years later on the “The Day The Music died.”

When: Shows April 12-29 Where: Georgia Ensemble Theatre, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info and tickets: get.org “CIRQUE TANTARA” What: Milton High School will present “Cirque Tantara,” a performance loosely based on the seven stages of man as scribed

by William Shakespeare in “As You Like It.” When: May 3-5 and 10-12, 7 p.m.

Where: Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Milton More info: miltontheatrecompany.com

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth NorthFulton.com | Johns Creek Herald Herald || April April 26, 26, 2018 2018 || 21 19

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA:

SPOTLIGHT ART: ROSWELL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY What: The society, with over 400 members, will participate in the annual Heritage Days, celebrating everyday life experiences in Roswell.

When: April 2-May 31, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellphotosociety.org

LIBRARY EVENTS: ANNUAL PUP PARADE What: Celebrate all things dogs and meet new friends.

When: Saturday, April 28, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org MEET AUTHOR THOMAS MULLEN What: Thomas Muller, winner of the 2007 James Fenimore Cooper award, will discuss his novels “Darktown” and “Lightning Men.” When: Saturday, April 28, 1-2:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4402 LANDSCAPE DRAWING WORKSHOP What: Enjoy the great outdoors and celebrate nature through art.

When: Saturday, April 28, 3-4 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road More info: afpls.org MEDITATION CLASS What: Every class will include guided meditation. All levels welcome.

When: Tuesday, May 1, noon-1 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4050 NAVIGATING COLLEGE ADMISSIONS What: Join Wendy Hayes, Independent Educational Consultant, to learn how to navigate the college admissions process.

When: Tuesday, May 1, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4402

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

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185 FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd. NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

Paying it forward

It’s always satisfying to pay something back – that five bucks I borrowed from you for lunch the other day, for example.

It’s a good feeling to restore balance to things.

STEVE HUDSON But paying it Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net forward is a whole lot better.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to “pay it forward” and enjoy a great fishing adventure in the process. Who shared that adventure with me? No less than seven of my newest fishing buddies – and their parents, aunts and uncles too!

The occasion was an “Introduction to Fishing” clinic presented through Alpharetta’s Recreation and Parks Department. This fun-filled workshop was designed to help young people discover the fun of fishing, something they can enjoy for years to come.

We started bright and early at Alpharetta’s North Park. Kids and adults (every kid had to be accompanied by an adult) started arriving a little before 9 a.m., and each of the kids got an all-important fishing hat. Every angler worth his or her salt knows that one must have a fishing hat to go fishing, and it didn’t take long for all to be properly outfitted.

Then we turned to practical things like rigging up a fishing rod.

We even learned a knot – the basic Fisherman’s Knot – and those young anglers mastered it in record time.

As we worked on the knot, I recalled another class I taught a few years ago. A young angler and his dad were learning that very same knot, and while the youngster was doing fine, the dad was struggling a bit.

“Why is it,” the dad asked me.

“That it’s so easy for him and so darned hard for me?”

I thought a moment about how to answer.

“Well,” I said at last. “It’s like this: The kids master it fast because they remember every detail, and their eyes are still good, and their joints don’t hurt when they try to tie it!”

After the “knot” part of things, we talked a bit about some different kinds of fishing. We even touched on fly fishing, and the kids got to try their hand at casting a practice fly rod. I think

STEVE HUDSON/HERALD

A young angler patiently waits for a nibble during Alpharetta Recreation and Parks’ “Introduction to Fishing” clinic. we may have had some future trout fishers in that crew!

Then, since fishing time was getting close, our talk turned to floats and sinkers – and (yes) bait.

Ahh, bait. I learned a long time ago that, when fishing with kids, you’ve got to give some thought to the kind of bait you select. We talked about “artificials,” of course, including plastic worms and curly-tail grubs and even what I affectionately call the “Gooey Green Frog,” a plastic frog imitation that’s as fun to fish as it is to squish.

“But that’s not what we’re going to use today,” I said. “Instead, we’ll go with-” “Not crickets, I hope!” said one of the moms. “I can’t handle crickets!”

“No, not crickets,” I said.

“Worms?” another parent said, pulling a factory-fresh container of Red Wigglers (a favorite bait of anglers far and wide!) from the depths of a tackle box.

“No, not worms either,” I said.

“Though, they will sure do the job.

Instead, we’re going to be using the universal food of all fish – bread!”

Ahh, bread. A little bit of bread, rolled into a small blob about the size of a small green pea, is known far and wide to be great bait when you’re fishing for bream. And since bream fishing was what we were about to do, that fresh loaf of bread I picked up on the way to the class was just what the doctor (uh, bream) had ordered.

So we gathered up our rods and our bread and our sunscreen and our bug spray and headed down the hill to the lake. In fact, we made the trek on a brand-new mulch-surfaced trail

leading from the Senior Center down toward the lake. We were, I was told, the very first folks to officially traverse the trail, which had actually just been constructed that morning.

But let’s cut to the chase. A few minutes later, there we were by the lake. The kids were ready to go, and (judging from the shapes moving around under the surface) the fish were too.

Reaching the water at last, we mashed up some bread into little round blobs and mashed the blobs onto hooks. We made our first casts, and the red-and-white floats landed with gentle splashes. And then we waited, but we didn’t have to wait long.

Shouts of “I got one!” and “I got a fish!” were soon floating across the lake, and over the next hour or so everybody caught fish. For some, it was their very first fish, an occasion marked by much picture taking and high-fiving and all sorts of other excitement – usually followed by the words “I want to catch another one!”

Yes, everybody caught fish. It really was a great day. Adults and kids had fun. And they had that fun together.

You can’t ask for more than that.

And so I tip my fishin’ hat to my new fishing buddies, all seven of you.

It was a blast.

Now keep fishing!

The Chattahoochee River has become a trout fishing destination for anglers far and wide - and CHATTAHOOCHEE TROUT will show you how to experience that world-class fishing yourself. Available at Amazon.com or chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

22 | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 25

Local baseball teams capture region titles, secure playoff berths

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON/FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The baseball regular season ended last week with two local teams lifting region championship trophies and many more gearing up for the playoffs.

In Class 7A, South Forsyth left no doubt in the final week, securing the only win it needed to lock in the Region 5-AAAAAAA title. Despite their undefeated region run ending with a loss to Milton on April 12, the War Eagles beat Forsyth Central the next day to secure the title.

While South cruised through the final week, Forsyth Central, North Forsyth and Milton all contended for the No. 2 seed and home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

Forsyth Central held the series wins over North and Milton, allowing the Bulldogs to secure the second seed with a win over West Forsyth on April 18.

The battle for the third seed went to the final night of the regular season. Milton and North entered their season finales at 7-7 in region play. With North holding the tiebreaker, Milton needed a win and North loss to earn the third seed.

Milton took care of West Forsyth, 5-1, while North was blown out by South Forsyth, giving the Eagles the No. 3 seed.

In Region 4, Roswell had to contend with playing multiple games outside of a playoff berth in the final week of the regular season.

Though the Hornets beat Walton twice in a threegame series this week, Roswell was still two games behind Etowah for the final playoff spot in the region standings. However, the Hornets earned the Class 7A at-large bid for the second straight year and will compete in the state tournament.

In Class 6A, Pope defended its Region 7-AAAAAA championship, securing the title with over a week remaining in the regular season. The race for the other playoff berths in the region came down to the final week of play.

Alpharetta secured the No. 2 seed by blanking Johns Creek, 10-0 on April 17. The Raiders will host their first playoff game in six years this week.

Cambridge controlled its own destiny to secure the No. 3 seed in the final night of the regular season against Pope, clinching the seed with a dramatic, walk-off win against the region champs.

Dunwoody earned the final playoff spot, two

games ahead of Chattahoochee.

In Region 7-AAAA, Blessed Trinity captured its seventh straight region title after compiling an undefeated (12-0) record. The Titans finished three games ahead of Marist for the title.

Unlike the higher classifications, power ratings determine playoff berths for the five local Class-A Private schools. While three local teams sat comfortably in a playoff position entering the final stretch of the regular season, St. Francis had to win to avoid being on the wrong side of the postseason bubble.

King’s Ridge (No. 8 seed) earned its sixth-straight postseason berth while Fellowship is in the state tournament for the first time since 2012 as the No. 10 seed.

Pinecrest Academy jumped one spot after sweeping a three-game series against Trion to close out the regular season for the No. 19 seed.

St. Francis continually climbed the ratings over the last month and entered the final night of the regular season tied for the final playoff spot in Class A-Private.

The Knights swept Mt. Zion in a doubleheader to claim sole possession of the final postseason spot in the final rankings.

BASEBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW:

Twelve local teams vie for state titles

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON/FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The baseball state playoffs begin this week with 12 local teams in four classes competing. Doubleheaders for all teams will be played this Thursday. If needed, a decisive third game will be played Friday.

Class 7A Back row (L to R): Emily Locke, Michael Patota, Dianne Patota and Meribeth Locke. Front row (L to R): Kate Patota, Will Patota and Josie Patota.

Patota signs with Southern Union State CUMMING, Ga. — Pinecrest Academy’s Will Patota signed his national letter of intent on April 11 to continue his baseball career at Southern Union State Community College in Wadley, Alabama.

Patota signed with family, classmates, coaches and school faculty in attendance.

(1) South Forsyth vs. (4) Peachtree Ridge South Forsyth (24-6) captured the Region 5-AAAAAAA championship this season and will host Peachtree Ridge (21-9) in the first round of the state tournament.

The War Eagles’ success this season has been driven by a strong defense and its pitching staff.

South has allowed an average of just 2.7 runs per game this season in 30 contests.

South’s offense enters the series having scored four or more runs in eight of their last nine games.

Peachtree Ridge will look to its pitching staff to contain South’s bats. The Lions’ starting rotation has a combined ERA of 1.88.

The Lions dropped their final four regular season games.

(2) Forsyth Central vs. (3) Mountain View Forsyth Central is in the playoffs for the second straight year after winning five straight region games in late March and early April.

The Bulldogs (12-17) have struggled against non-region opponents this season, compiling a 4-10 record outside of Region 5-AAAAAAA and will face a Mountain View squad that has won four of its last

five games.

Central will undoubtedly focus on limiting the Bears’ offensive chances from the mound, led by starter Ethan Hawkins. Mountain View averaged over six runs per game in the regular season while the Bulldogs allowed an average of five.

(3) Milton vs. (2) North Gwinnett Milton earned the No. 3 seed from Region 5-AAAAAAA on the final night of the regular season and will play on the road against North Gwinnett (22-8) this Thursday.

The Eagles (19-12) have struggled with injuries this season and will look to rest ahead of the series after playing eight games in 12 days.

Milton will need solid performances on the mound as the Bulldogs average seven runs per game. The Eagles’ pitching staff had a 1.59 ERA over its last eight region games.

The Bulldogs allow an average of 2.5 runs per game. The Eagles enter the series scoring five runs in five of their last six games of the regular season.

(4) North Forsyth vs. (1) Mill Creek North Forsyth will return to the postseason this week, but the team has a tall task in facing Region 6 champions Mill Creek (26-4). The Hawks are ranked in the top-25 teams nationally according to MaxPreps.

The Hawks’ pitching staff has thrown nine shutouts this season and has allowed an average of 2.5 runs per game. Mill Creek’s offense averages 7.5 runs per game.

North (20-10) will look to get back on track against the Hawks after an up-and-down end to the

See BASEBALL, Page 28

COMMUNITY

26 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Fairgrounds administrator retires after 40 years City renames Exhibit Hall after Dave Horton

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — The City of Cumming recently said farewell to one of its most integral and long-term employees, Dave Horton.

Horton retired March 31 as director of the Cumming Fairgrounds. He began his career with the city as in intern in 1977 and then came to work full time in 1978 at the Cumming Recreation Department.

Over the years, he served in several roles, including comptroller and director of Planning & Zoning before being named to head the Fairgrounds in 1998, just three years after the annual Cumming Fair began.

“At the time, my original plan was to intern then go out and do outdoor recreation out west,” he said.

“But once I got there, I had folks leading the city and good mentors like Gerald Blackburn. So I stayed at the (Cumming Recreation Department). It felt like family.”

But after 40 years, Horton, 66, decided it was time to retire.

“Forty years is a long time,” he said. “The biggest thing is my family has a Christmas tree farm in Dahlonega. My stepfather passed away just after the fair last year. My mother is 89 and still healthy and out trimming trees. But I needed to spend more time at the farm to help her out. Not many people do 40 years

at the same location.”

During those four decades, Horton said he enjoyed the kind of steady leadership unheard of anywhere else.

“It’s neat having the same consistency in leadership and mentors to work with during that whole time,” Horton said. “That’s something you don’t find very often at any job, much less in government.”

While working in recreation, Horton said he felt like he watched many of the local children grow up when they used the city services year after year.

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“You’re dealing with people in their leisure activities, especially at the fairgrounds because you’re dealing with special events,” Horton said. “The public and community you’re serving are at a family activity. They want to be there and are happy. It’s a fun crowd to deal with. When you deal with other public services, people come in and are unhappy. But during their leisure activities, they’re very appreciative of what’s being offered because it’s time for them to get out and share experiences with their families.”

The annual fair provided a stage for families to be at their best.

“At the fair, families are truly making memories because their parents went with their parents and they have memories,” Horton said. “Now they’re passing that along to generation after generation.

It’s a unique event set up as far as how the families interact.”

He’s such a city staple, the City Council voted April 17 to rename the Exhibit Hall at the Fairgrounds to Horton Hall.

“We’ve all spent a lot of time getting the Fairgrounds to where they are today,” Horton said. “When it opened, it maybe had a couple events a year, and now there are maybe four weekends a year open during the hottest days of the summer. I was always blessed to have great staff to work with because they were hardworking and passionate. The Fairgrounds are in good hands.”

Tracy Helms has been named the new Fairgrounds director. Donna Cruse was promoted to the role of events coordinator.

Cyndi Witt, FNP-C

THE AMERICAN DREAM Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 7:30 p.m.

J. Wayne Baughman, conductor Roger Wise, narrator Brent Davis, baritone Supported in part by:

Join us for a musical tour of the U.S.A., including Broadway hits, old American songs, jazz, and a salute to our heroes! Please bring nonperishable items for our food drive benefitting North Fulton Community Charities.

Tickets $32 Adults; $27 Seniors; $16 Students

Concert at Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek

Quick & Convenient Appointment Times

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Funding for this program is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 27

Truth’s Place opens as recovery center in north Forsyth

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — When Truth Graf was released from jail nine years ago, she turned to the community to help get her back on her feet. And now as someone in long-term recovery, she’s hoping to give back to the same community that helped her.

Along with others in the recovery community, Graf opened Truth’s Place April 18 at 4950 Browns Bridge Road.

“Truth’s Place is a safe, welcoming space where you will feel immediately at home,” Graf said. “You will find the peace and understanding you’ve been searching for. You will find hope and truth.”

Truth’s Place, a recovery space, was born as a direct response to the need of the drug addicted population.

Graf said Georgia is among the top five states in the country in the number of drug overdoses, and she hopes her center will help reduce that by providing peer-based recovery support services to the most vulnerable.

“I should be dead right now,” Graf said. “But because of my recovery and the community support, every single facet in my life has welcomed me back and given me this opportunity to serve others and give back what I was so freely given.

With over nine years in long-term recovery, Graf is a Certified Peer Specialist, in both addictive disease and mental health through the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network. She’s also a Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialist through the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse.

Truth’s Place will hold group meetings, offer family support and help for those coming right out of prison.

Ultimately, she said she would like to be a resource for people to reach out for help with housing, employment and inpatient rehab services.

“Our past does not define us, it qualifies us for the future,” Graf said. “The things that put me in this place today are the support of my family, community and higher power, along with my recovery and gratitude. If it were not for my daddy and brother believing in me and my nine years in long-term recovery,

I would be living under a bridge, or back addicted to alcohol or drugs, or more likely back in prison or jail.

But by them believing, encouraging and supporting me, they made me start believing in myself. I realized I can do this one day at a time.”

She said she realized the key to recovery is a good support system, which she hopes Truth’s Place can offer.

“Those of us in early recovery are most vulnerable,” she said. “Those of us returning to life after the trauma of jail or prison are so raw and unsure. People in early recovery are very fragile. Truth’s Place is a safe, nurturing place to be yourself. We will listen to you and hear you while you figure yourself out and learn from within.”

She hopes by providing a safe haven for recovery,

Golf Tournament to benefit Children’s Healthcare FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The 2018 Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club charity golf tournament will be held Friday, May 11, at Hampton Golf Village in Cumming. Proceeds will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Forsyth County and the club’s youth programs.

Registration and warm-up will open at 10:30 a.m. The tournament will be a four-person scramble with a shotgun start at noon. There will be a putting

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

The ribbon is cut officially opening Truth’s Place at 4950 Browns Bridge Road.

contest, prizes and silent auction.

Entree fees include green fee, cart, box lunch and cookout afterwards during the awards presentations.

Individual entry fee is $125 and $500 for teams. Corporate sponsorships and packages begin at $300.

Register by May 8.

For information and registration, call 770-519-9490 or visit sawneecummingoptimist.org.

twitter.com/forsythherald

the stigma of addiction may lift.

“I’m proud to be in recovery,” she said. “I want to help anyone who wants it. I know this is the right thing because it’s all come together. We’re in the heroin triangle. People are dying and it’s underreported.

Forsyth County is rampant with addiction and we don’t have enough support services so they go back out. So, please, come here. If they can’t afford to pay, come anyway.”

Graf’s brother bought the lease to the building for a year as a Christmas gift last year.

“We’ve got a lot of growing to do,” Graf said.

“There’s a lot of work that needs to be done and it’s a work-in-progress, but so am I, aren’t we all?”

To learn more, visit truthsplace.com. To view the ribbon cutting, visit facebook.com/forsythherald.

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SPORTS

28 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Baseball: Continued from Page 25 regular season.

The Raiders won four straight in mid-April before a two-game skid relegated North to the No. 4 seed from Region 5.

(At large) Roswell vs. (1) Newnan Roswell finished two games out of a playoff berth in Region 4, but in facing that region’s top-tier teams the Hornets had the highest power rating for the Class 7A at-large bid.

The experience gained from playing in the highly contested Region 4 could prove beneficial for the Hornets who face Region 2 champions Newnan (228) in the first round.

Both teams have solid defenses and bullpens that allow about four runs per game. Though Newnan holds the edge in runs scored over the regular season, the Hornets faced more talented pitchers and averaged four runs per game.

Class 6A (2) Alpharetta vs. (3) Lanier Alpharetta is hosting its first playoff series in six years this Thursday and faces Lanier (17-13) of Region 8.

The Raiders’ (14-16) challenging non -region schedule, which included seven

playoff teams, could prove beneficial in the postseason. Their starters should be rested after Alpharetta captured the No. 2 seed with two games remaining in the regular season.

Alpharetta and Lanier are closely matched on paper with both squads averaging over five runs per game while allowing just over four runs. Both teams enter the series after dropping their final two regular season contests.

(3) Cambridge vs. (2) Gainesville Cambridge earned its fourthstraight postseason berth after finishing third in Region 7. The Bears (14-14) will travel to Gainesville to take on the Red Elephants this week.

Thursday’s doubleheader could feature an offensive showcase. Both teams scored nine or more runs in three of their last five games.

The Bears allowed an average of five runs per game over the regular season while Gainesville gave up four.

Class 4A (1) Blessed Trinity vs. (4) Stephens County Blessed Trinity won its seventh straight region championship to claim the No. 1 seed from Region 4 and will host Stephens County (21-9) this Thursday.

BT enters the game as the top ranked team in the state according to

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MaxPreps. The Titans’ (28-2) success has been forged by its dominant pitching staff. BT had a team ERA of 1.88 during the regular season with Clark Dearman holding a 9-0 record with a 0.96 ERA. The Titans’ offense is averaging seven runs per game and will face off against a Stephens County squad that allowed 121 runs in 30 games.

Class A-Private (8) King’s Ridge BYE With the No. 8 seed, King’s Ridge has a first-round bye. The Tigers will face the winner of the Providence Christian/Mount Vernon series on May 3.

(10) Fellowship Christian vs. (23) Walker Fellowship Christian earned its first playoff berth in six years and will host Region 6-A foe Walker in the first round this Thursday. The Paladins split their regular season series with the Wolverines in late March.

Fellowship (19-9) enters the game on a hot streak with wins in six of their last seven contests. The Paladins scored an average of eight runs in that span.

Teacher: Continued from Page 12 and go to Atlanta for interviews just a few days later.

“It’s humbling to even be on the same subject line as the nine other finalists,” she said. “I’m trying to take everything in and enjoy the process.”

But at times, she said her emotions are all over the place.

“Sometimes I’ll tear up with excitement,” Stewart said. “Then I’m overcome with self-doubt because I’m operating so far outside my comfort zone. I don’t want to let down my school and community. But at the end of the day I have to be true to myself and push through the discomfort and be me doing my thing as I do every day.

I felt at peace going into the interviews and decided to just be me.”

She had to keep the surprise to herself because she couldn’t tell anyone until the official press release came out

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Fellowship has a team ERA of 2.33 and faces a Walker team averaging just under five runs a game.

(19) Pinecrest Academy vs. (14) George Walton Academy Pinecrest (17-12) will look to continue its late-season surge this week as they travel to Monroe to take on George Walton. The Paladins are 6-1 in April and scored six or more runs in each game.

Pinecrest averaged nearly seven runs a game in the regular season.

George Walton has a team ERA of 2.71 to Pinecrest’s 3.71.

(24) St. Francis vs. (9) Stratford Academy St. Francis clawed its way into playoff contention in the final month of the regular season and secured the final playoff berth with four wins last week.

The Knights (14-16) seek the upset against Stratford this week, and will need solid pitching. The Eagles (19-8) averaged seven runs per game in the regular season.

St. Francis’ starting rotation has a combined ERA of 3.54.

Stratford enters the postseason with a 16-3 record dating back to the first week of March.

April 17.

“I had to go through the interview and speech without anyone knowing,” she said. “That was hard. I had to tell my principal because I wasn’t going to be here. I couldn’t tell anyone and it was hard not having anyone know what I was going through and not having the supportive texts.”

If she is chosen the state teacher of the year, she would probably take a one-year sabbatical working directly with the Georgia Department of Education.

During this time she would also speak to various groups throughout the state.

“I wouldn’t want to leave my children for a year,” Stewart said. “But it’s win-win because if I do have a chance to touch some lives on a much larger scale by connecting and creating relationships with educators across the state, then who am I to turn down that opportunity? It’s out of my hands.

What an honor to have gotten this far.

If I don’t get it, I have a job that I love and am thrilled to go back to.”

YOUR NEWS! YOUR PHOTOS!

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 29 ForsythHerald.com

ONLINE INCLUDED

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

Call today to place your ad • 770-442-3278 • classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 •

Help Wanted

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TEACHERS WANTED Kids ‘R’ Kids located at 3036 Old Atlanta Road in Cumming is growing. We are seeking a full time Ga-Pre-K and Private Pre-K Teacher. We are also seeking Full and Part time Teachers for our Pre-school classes.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, committed, energetic people with a minimum high school diploma, and clear criminal history.

We are open from 6AM to 6:30 PM and are willing to accommodate minor alternative shift schedules.

Send Resume and contact information to Email: info@krk52.com.

TECHNICAL Cisco Systems, Inc. is accepting resumes for the following position in Alpharetta, GA: Software Engineer (Ref.# ALP003B): Responsible for the definition, design, development, test, debugging, release, enhancement or maintenance of software.

Please mail resumes with reference number to Cisco Systems, Inc., Attn: G51G, 170 W. Tasman Drive, Mail Stop: SJC 5/1/4, San Jose, CA 95134. No phone calls please.

Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE. www.cisco.com ELDERLY CARE LIVE-IN Alpharetta.

Salary & other benefits.

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Pet sitters for Professional Pet Care Company: Full-time.

Details: http://happytailscare. com/job-application/

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North Fulton Community Charities

North Fulton Community Charities

Now Hiring Full Time

Now Hiring

Donation Door Supervisor: Supervise Thrift Shop donation intake and back door volunteers. Requires heavy lifting. NFCC is a locally supported nonprofit organization serving the community of North Fulton. NFCC does require a background check, drug screen and e-Verify. Job description and application available at 11270 Elkins Road, Roswell 30076 or submit resume to Tina Adams tadams@nfcchelp.org.

Fulltime Bilingual Intake Specialist (English/Spanish). Manage Reception Area and Intake Desk at NFCC, a locally supported, volunteer based nonprofit serving a diverse population in North Fulton with emergency needs. NFCC requires background check, drug screen and e-verify.

Pick up application & job description at NFCC, 11270 Elkins Rd, Roswell 30076 or cfonseca@nfcchelp.org

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Garage Sale

RECEPTIONIST/ FRONT OFFICE COORDINATOR Johns Creek area gynecology office.

Requires minimum of 2 years’ experience as receptionist in the medical field.

Requires great communication skills and some insurance knowledge (EOB’s, etc.) preferred. Looking for a personable, dependable, employee with professional appearance and attitude.

Great salary and benefits.

Email resume and contact information to vjenkins54@ yahoo.com, or mail to: Recruiter, 1350 Old Rock Road, Greensboro, GA 30642.

Seeking caring, compassionate person to support individuals in residential and/or day support community program in Alpharetta.

Contact Tammy at 678-438-1069.

U P S C A L E HOUSECLEANER Monday-Friday 8:304ish. $13.00/hour (start), approx 30-35 hours/week.

Jill 404-643-8088.

ROSWELL Saddle Creek Subdivision; 155 Glenclairn Court 30076. Friday 4/27 and Saturday 4/28, 9am-5pm. Furniture, office supplies, books, mens & womens clothes, CD's, DVD's, framed art and much more!

Part-time Massage therapist opening for Alpharetta chiropractic office please email ava. arnold@youroasis 4health.com

Newspaper Delivery Route Open with Appen Media Group Looking for one person or couple interested in delivering newspapers in South Forsyth county. Requirements: Perfect driving record and background check, reliable transportation, honest, reliable, and positive attitude. The route will require approximately 6-8 hours of time each week on Wednesday and/or Thursday. Send an email to Lisa@ AppenMediaGroup. com and include a paragraph or two about who you are and your background/ experience.

IN THE SUBJECT LINE PLEASE PUT “DELIVERY ROUTE”

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Call 770-442-3278 to advertise

FRONT DESK Doctors office.

Computer experience.

Pleasant team player.

Positive attitude. Alpharetta/ Roswell.

Resume: medoffice123@gmail. com

Sales Garage Sale

MILTON: Fieldstone Farms Subdivision; 1011 Fieldstone Trail. Saturday 4/28, 7:30AM-2pm.

Multifamily.

Yard Sale

JOHNS CREEK: The Forest Subdivision; 120 Pinion Lane 30005. Friday 4/27 and Saturday 4/28.

8:30AM-3pm.

Tall womens outerwear

CUMMING M o n t v a l e Community sale!

Corner McGinnis Ferry and Brookwood Road 30041.

Saturday 4/28, 8am-1pm.

CUMMING Multi family neighborhood sale!

Longlake Subdivision; 1790 Aurelia Drive 30041. Friday 4/27, Saturday 4/28, 8am-3pm.

Johns Creek D o u b l e G a t e subdivision wide yard sale 4/28 8am-2pm.

Look for balloons. Info and maps at www. mydoublegate.com / yard-sale

MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued on page 30

30 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com forsythherald.com

MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued from page 29 Yard Sale

Furniture

Furniture

CUMMING: Multi family.

Tallantworth Subdivision, Hyde Road and Tallantworth Crossing.

Saturday 4/28, 8am-4pm.

BEDROOM SUITE: King-sized; bed, dresser, mirror, chest of drawers. night stand $500. 470-281-5144

SOFA LOVESEATS: 2 beige, from Haverty’s.

Good condition. $400.

678-296-0020

CUMMING: Multi family.

Tallantworth Subdivision, Hyde Road and Tallantworth Crossing.

Saturday 4/28, 8am-4pm.

MILTON Crabapple North Subdivision; 845 Freemmanwood Lane.

Friday 4/27-Sunday 4/29, 9am-4pm. Lots of power and hand tools.

Furniture.

Fabric.

Lamps.

Decor’. Craft items.

Bargains Building Supplies Pallets (2) approx.

200sf. total. Each paver 6.5”x6.5”. DOT approved for sidewalks and driveways. $500.

770-992-8970

Furniture Beds, sofa, dining table/4 chairs, office furniture, bookcases, file cabinets, barstools.

Photos available.

770-331-7788 GLASS SOFA TABLE: 2-tier.

Excellent condition! $100.

678-296-0020 GLASS COFFEE TABLE from Haverty’s.

Excellent condition! $200. 678-296-0020 MAPLE DINING ROOM HUTCH, $400.

770-753-4367

DINING TABLE: Solid cherry 48” round. Leaf, pad, 4 upholstered chairs $650.

770-380-6646 CHERRY HUNT TABLE with mirror, $700. 404-889-3233 Antique Eastlake Settee $300 cash firm.

Excellent condition.

678-513-5088 M A P L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T CENTER, $300.

770-753-4367 Antique Queen Anne Sofa - over 100 years old. Excellent condition. Ask $1500 obo. 678-463-8421 FREE-Sofa bed, queen size, good mattress.

Royal blue. You haul.

812-243-1575 OPEN HUTCH, solid cherry/brass. $900.

770-753-4367 DINING ROOM TABLE, glass top, cherry inlay, 6 covered roll-back chairs $800.

404-889-3233 BARSTOOLS 30” cherry 404-889-3233

(3) $300.

DINING ROOM SUITE: Danish modern, 6-table setting, 80” wide hutch, 32” wide bar on rollers $5000. 404-750-3329.

BAR STOOLS, swivel seats & backs. Two 24”, one 29”, all wood construction; great condition! $15 each.

770-888-2790

BEDROOM SUITE: Exquisite ash contemporary modern.

Tallboy dresser, mirrored dresser (60” wide), headboard with side drawers, double bed $5000.

404-750-3329 OAK BUFFET: 3 drawer, 4 doors, 48”x33”.

China and silver storage.

Like new. $450.

770-772-1600

Household DISHES: Large set of Noritake China, Mabel pattern $150.

770-864-5042

Home Decor INDOOR TREES: 2 large, with decorative pots.

Excellent condition. $100/both.

678-296-0020

Miscellaneous CO NVECT ION M I C R O WAV E : Magic Chef. $45.

770-772-1600 DUNE RACER (kids) $100. 404-889-3233 STROLLERS 404-889-3233

$40.

F R I G I D A I R E FREEZER $125.

404-889-3233 YAMAHA 4-WHEELER 404-889-3233

kids’ $100.

POLARIS 4-Wheeler 404-889-3233

Kids’ $100.

CLEANING OUT AN ATTIC, GARAGE OR BASEMENT? SELL YOUR OLD STUFF!

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Musical Instruments PIANO, Baby Grand: Elegant case, matching bench; warm, rich tone. Sacrifice $1650 obo. 678-445-3654

Recreation TREADMILL: Life Fitness incline. $200/ obo, 404-455-8845 SKIS, BOOTS, POLES, womens’ and mens’ 7/1/2 and 9-1/2. $400. 404-889-3233

Wanted to Buy RECORDS: LP’s. Pay cash, Rock & Roll.

Mojo Vinyl, Roswell 678-534-5042

Cemetery GREENLAWN ROSWELL Beautiful, soughtafter location next to lake with fountain.

Adjacent to marble/ stone bench. Shady, wooded hill above lake. Natural space for quiet meditation. For one casket or multiple urns. Please visit “Virtual Tour” feature, Greenlawn Cemetery website; choose “THE LAKE Location”. Lot 2-B, Space 4. $5200.

Motivated! 828-8912446; gilld@earthlink. net Greenlawn/Roswell 2 lots. Crucifiction Section, 75-D, lots 3 & 4. $7500 each. 404379-0220 or wrightrita@att.net BOLD TYPE

will really make your ad stand out. Ask your sales rep about making all or part of your ad bold. 770-442-3278

Real Estate Office Space for Rent OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE IN D O W N T O W N ALPHARETTA Office(s) for lease on North Main Street (Alpharetta Highway) near downtown Alpharetta.

Great visibility and convenient location to downtown Alpharetta and Windward Pkwy. Two adjacent spaces totaling approximately 1,000 square feet. $2,000 a month for both spaces or $1500 a month for the larger space and $1200 a month for the smaller space. Ready to move In mid May or June 1. Turn key ready to go! Easy, Even some furniture included. Low cost of entry. If you are looking for a great location and tired of working out of your home, this space is for you. Everything included, cleaning, trash pick up, utilities. Private entrance is available and Use of building conference room. Great space for professional services, or any local company needing convenient, affordable, space. Call Christina at 770-527-8178. This will go fast. Available in late May or June.

Waterfront LAKE NOTTELEY 1-acre lakefront wooded lot, just 90 miles north of Atlanta in upscale mountaintop community with pool, clubhouse, stables and many more amenities. Motivated seller $149,000.

770-778-0290

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Business Services Legal Notice Untitled Notice of Public Sale On Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 10:00am Roswell Mini Warehouse located at 90 Oak Street will hold a public auction of the following storage units in order to satisfy lien charges.

Units #8, #14, #20, #37, #38 which contain furniture, tools, household items, toys and miscellaneous boxes and bags.

Tenants in default are Jay Gholar and Nandy Osman both from Atlanta, GA. All contents will be sold for cash to the highest bidder.

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A small list of really good tree services.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | April 26, 2018 | 31

Air Conditioning Air Plus Co Inc. 24/7 Service Service / Installation Affordable Rates Residential / Commercial Will Beat all written estimates 30 yrs. exp.

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32 | April 26, 2018 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

SATURDAY APRIL 28, 2018 FROM 1-8PM TICKETS & INFO CherryStreetBrewing.com/beerfest

Tickets: $10 online • $15 at the door Kids under 21 free with adult.

Tickets & Info

Cherrystreetbrewing.com/beerfest @ Vickery Village Courtyard in Cumming, GA (400N to Exit 12B or 400S to Exit 13)

Fundraiser for Event DetailsBeers| Family and Dog Friendly Special Cherry Street Beer Taps |Special Guest Taps of Georgia Saturday 28 2018 from VIP with Food and Rare Selections | Face Painting &April, Activities | Art1-8pm & Craft Vendors @ Vickery Village Courtyard

678-456-8189 cherrystreettaproom.com 5810 Bond Street • Cumming

in Cumming, GA (400N to Exit 12B or 400S to Exit 13)

Live Music from

Serving Breakfast

Mon-Fri 7am-11am • Sat 8am-11am Sun 8am-10am • Sun Brunch 10am-2pm

Biscuits, Omelettes, French Toast, Egg Platters & Bowls, Steak & Eggs, Kids’ breakfast Menu

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner To-Go • Catering

Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers • Wings • Chicken Lips • BBQ Ribs • Pulled Pork • Veggies & More.

Special Cherry Street Beer Taps Special Guest Taps of Georgia Beers VIP with Food and Rare Selections Family and Dog Friendly

HOME OF

Enjoy

Mother’s Day BRUNCH at Tanner’s May 13 • 10-2pm

Serving Southern Classics with a Twist!

GRADUATION Catering Available Ca Fingers, Lips, BBQ, Wings, Veggies.

We’ve got it all!

5810 Bond Street • Cumming (at corner of Post Rd. and Majors Rd. in Vickery Village) 770.205.5512 • cherrystreetbrewing.com