Health & Wellness
Info on H2O
Sponsored Section ►►PAGE 20
Take an inside look at county’s water ►►PAGE 11
Just say no to littering
SFHS DECA finds solutions to problem ►►PAGE 19
Earth Day celebration
Master Naturalists educate and inspire ►►PAGE 14
May 13, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 20
Amos: State of Forsyth strong and progressing By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com
The Brooks’ son, Branson, enjoys playing with the giant rabbit at the opening.
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
TherapyLand offers new take on autism therapy By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — With nearly one in 68 children identified with an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s hard to imagine there are limited resources for parents of autistic children. But that’s exactly what Cheri and Thane Brooks encountered when they were trying to find a therapy center for their 7-year-
old daughter, Jaslyn. So the Brooks took matters into their own hands. On May 2, they held a grand opening carnival for their new autism therapy center, TherapyLand in Alpharetta. “For the past five years, we tried to find places we could put her that would help her progress and grow,” Cheri Brooks said. “It’s very limited in Georgia, and Texas and California are so progressive when it comes to autism. We
just thought of a dream of an amazing facility where the kids would want to come and learn through play. Then we came up with TherapyLand.” TherapyLand, 6505 Shiloh Road, Suite 100, is privately funded and a kid’s dream with carnival signs, games and interactive rooms offering different types of therapy. The types of therapy include occupational, physical, speech language
See TherapyLand, Page 10
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is strong and moving forward, said two county leaders last week at the State of Forsyth County address. “Forsyth County is a community of exceptional natural resources and unparalleled opportunities where personal growth, prosperity and dreams are realized every day,” Commission Chairman R.J. “Pete” Amos told the audience May 7 at the Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College. Amos, along with Board of Education Chair Darla Light, gave an update on the county as a whole and the Forsyth County School System. “Our unemployment rate for March of 4.5 percent was the second lowest in the entire state of Georgia,” Amos said. “Our millage rates continue to be among the
lowest in metro Atlanta. The county’s growth is one thing that has enabled us to keep our tax rates so low. “That leads into some of the things at which Forsyth County is ranked among the top,” he said. “We continue to be one of the fastest growing counties not only in Georgia but also nationwide. Our growth rate is the secondfastest in the state and the seventh-fastest in the nation, and the latest census figures estimate our population at more than 204,000.” Amos said the county’s medium household income is higher than both Georgia and the national average, as noted that the county was named the healthiest county for the third year in a row. “It’s absolutely no surprise that people want to be a part of this community we call Forsyth County,” Amos said. Regarding public safety,
See AMOS, Page 4
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
Commission Chairman R.J. “Pete” Amos and Board of Education Chair Darla Light answered questions from the audience.
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Weekend motorcycle crash turns fatal
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CUMMING, Ga. — On May 3 at 2:45 p.m., deputies with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hickory Hills Road, near Akins Way, involving a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle. The driver of the motorcycle, Brandon Egli, 26, of Cumming, died at the hospital due to the injuries that were sustained during the accident. The investigation of the accident found that the driver of the motorcycle was negotiating a curve on Hickory Hills at too fast of a speed, causing the motorcycle to enter into the opposing lane of traffic. At the same time, a 2000 Chevrolet Impala was negotiating the curve on the opposite lane. The
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 gets upset with taxi driver CUMMING, Ga. — A man took a taxi ride home April 25 after drinking, but soon became upset with the driver. The driver told police he picked up the man, who allegedly began cursing at the driver during the trip. The driver said he then drove to the Cumming Police Department instead. When questioned by an officer, the passenger reportedly said he didn’t like what the driver was saying. However, the man did not report anything the driver may have said. The officer reported the man began cursing loudly, at which point he was placed under arrest for public drunkenness and booked.
Road rage leads to argument FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman was driving down Ga. 9 April 27 when she was almost hit by another car. When the woman mouthed “slow down” to the other car, that driver allegedly pulled out a gun, pointed it at the woman and then drove off. The woman said she called 911 and followed the other car to a parking lot in a business park. Upon arrival to the parking lot, officers spoke with the other car’s driver. She reportedly said she was driving with her window down when the first woman became verbally abusive and
motorcycle was unable to maintain its lane, causing it to strike the Impala head on, ejecting the driver of the motorcycle. The driver of the Impala and the passenger sustained no injuries from the accident. In addition, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office investigated a second unrelated accident involving a motorcycle on the same date on State Route 20 near Samples Road. The driver of the motorcycle was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The investigation of the accident found the driver of the motorcycle to be at fault. –Kathleen Sturgeon
began to yell that “she’s got a gun.” That driver pulled over to call 911 as well, but reported the other woman had also pulled out her gun. The first woman was advised to seek a warrant through Magistrate Court if she wanted, but she reportedly became irate about that.
Driver flees after fiery crash FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a crash April 29 near Riley Road just north of Namon Wallace Drive. The car that hit a power pole was flipped upside down, the engine was on fire and there was a woman, later identified as the registered owner, lying on the ground about 50 yards south of the wreck. The woman said her back and chest were hurting, but EMS had to go around downed power lines to get to her. She had slight cuts and bruises but could move her fingers and toes. She told officers her husband was the driver and she was the passenger, but he left on foot. A witness told officers he heard the wreck happen and saw it catch on fire as he approached to help. He also witnessed the woman getting away from the car and a man running away from the scene. He reportedly said the woman told him not to call police since she had drugs in the car and asked his help to get them out. The vehicle was searched to see if there was anything to identify the two people. While being searched, a small black case was found with what appeared to be drugs and drug paraphernalia. Warrants for hit and run and failure to maintain lane were issued for the driver who ran away.
DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
DUI arrests ►► Freddy Villanueva, 23, of Dyer
Drive, Cumming, was arrested April 26 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane, driving without a valid license and open container. ►► Christopher Leon Glass, 39, of Shady Grove Road, Cumming, was arrested April 26 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI, open container and failure to maintain lane. ►► Susan Catherine Picken, 45, of Suwanee was arrested April 25 on Sharon Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Luis Enrique Silva-Espinoza, 25, of Pine Lake Drive, Cumming, was arrested April 25 on Bethelview Road in Cumming for DUI, open container and driving without a valid license. ►► Julie Chopin Richardson, 26, of Brookside Court, Alpharetta, was arrested April 26 on Anthem Parkway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Kathy Cornett Elliott, 54, of Buford was arrested April 27 on Peachtree Parkway in Cumming for DUI. ►► Tyler Cline Hamby, 27, of Dawsonville was arrested April 29 on Dahlonega Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.
See ARRESTS, Page 29
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NEWS
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Two more contend for council spot By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — While it has been years since the city of Cumming had an open seat or a competitive election for its City Council, it is looking like the city may finally have a contest on its hands. Two more citizens have announced their intent to become candidates for council in the special election June 16 to fill the Post 1 seat left open by retiring Councilman Rupert Sexton. Chuck Welch, local business man, and Linda Ledbetter, former Forsyth commissioner, announced their intentions last week, joining candidate Julie Tressler, who announced May 1. “At a young age, I learned the importance of working hard to help others,” Welch said. “I witnessed my father’s
Amos: Continued from Page 1 the county’s 911 center was recognized for handling more than 200,000 calls for service last year. The fire department conducted nearly 600 child safety car seat inspections to ensure they were installed properly last year alone. And, Amos said, the new jail is expected to open in July. “The new jail and new courthouse are critical components of our public safety and judicial systems,” Amos said. “I’ve heard nothing but positive comments so far from everyone who has visited the new courthouse since it opened in March. It and the new jail are modern, state-of-the art buildings that will serve the county for many years to come. They – along with the two new parking decks opened in downtown last year – were funded by the voter-approved SPLOST VII program, so we owe our thanks
service on the Cumming City Council as he helped shape our community into the remarkable town it is today. Now, more than ever, we must work to protect Cumming’s legacy for the next generation. I will work aggressively to continue WELCH to enhance our quality of life, support local businesses and safeguard our heritage.” Welch is a lifelong resident of the city and said he has watched the city evolve from a small rural town into “one of the nation’s premier destinations to live, work, play and retire.” “With unparalleled amenities, a thriving health care market, top-tier schools and low taxes, Cumming will only contin-
to the citizens for making them possible.” Roads were also brought up as a crucial piece of infrastructure, Amos said. “Forsyth County voters deserve a huge thank you for the 63 percent approval of the $200 million Forsyth County transportation bond last November,” Amos said. “The bond includes $119 million for county projects and $81 million for projects in partnership with GDOT, to leverage state and federal funding.” Amos also mentioned the county was identified last month by the Technology Association of Georgia as the most innovative county in the state. “This designation is important because it speaks to the future of our county’s economy and jobs,” Amos said. “We have enjoyed a 7.2 percent growth of jobs in the tech sector since 1997. The number of households with broadband Internet access is nearly 90 percent.” Light gave an update on the current condition of the
ue to grow,” Welch said. “I have witnessed our transition once, and, with your support, I am ready to lead as we make our next transition to an even greater level of success.” Welch is a senior vice president at Community Business Bank and has LEDBETTER been involved with the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Forsyth County and the United Way. As a former commissioner for District 5, Ledbetter decided not to run for re-election in 2008. She said she has lived in the city since 1969 and has always wanted to be on the council. “I ran for commission and was lucky
county school system, saying it is home to 42,747 students and 4,525 staff in 35 schools. It is the seventh largest of 195 school systems in Georgia, and it added 1,911 new students since May 2014. “The school system is so important for the economy because people move here because the school system is so good,” Light said. “We are growing by leaps and bounds, even in the downturn of the economy. We’re working hard.” The school system began projects from the $195 million bond referendum and $53 million in state funding, Light said. This is broken down into $115 million for improvements, additions and renovations to existing schools, $105 million to construct one high school, one middle school and purchase land for schools, $19 million for technology and school safety and $9 million for transportation. “With the new bond passing, that will really help to accommodate the growth,” Light
See COUNCIL, Page 29 said. “We’re still on top and are very proud of what we do. The school system is really moving forward.” Among Georgia’s 15 largest districts, FCS has the highest graduation rate, district SAT score and Georgia High School Writing Test score. The county will be redistricting this fall to prepare for the opening of Brandywine Elementary School and DeSana Middle School in August 2016. This brought up the topic of school overcrowding. “What people don’t understand is we can’t just go build schools,” Light said. “The children have to be here before you can build the schools and before the state will give you their portion of the money to build. That’s why it has to get overcrowded before you can build the schools. I think we do a good job and give the school buildings a lot of flexibility to do what they want to do in their building and what’s best for their children. Overall, we handle it really well.”
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Olens talks federalism, rule of law Met with Tea Party in Forsyth By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Georgia State Attorney General Sam Olens discussed federalism, the rule of law and regulatory excess when he met with the United Tea Party of Georgia at Forsyth County’s Central Park May 4. As the state’s lawyer, the attorney general said he represents the governor and all state agencies. He said he and the governor get sued most often in the state. “Often neither of us are the right defendant, but that doesn’t stop people,” Olens said. “I enforce the laws so sometimes people want to sue me so I won’t enforce the laws. A lot of times we’re just sued ‘because.’” Georgia is in the U.S. Court of Appeals’ 11th Circuit, Olens said. “I tend not to get involved in litigation elsewhere in the country unless it is a petition,” he said. “I’m not apt to getting involved with other circuit cases because even if I win, it doesn’t change the law here. However, if they apply to the U.S. Supreme Court and they take the case, then it does include the whole country.” No American should have to sacrifice their liberty for
a political agenda, Olens said. “What I see happening a lot on the Left is they like the president’s policy but they don’t OLENS care about the means — they only care about the end,” Olens said. “That’s very dangerous because they don’t care how they get there, just the end. “If the federal judiciary defends that practice, they may not be so thrilled with the actions of the next president,” he said. “Government doesn’t work well when it goes from one extreme to another. It does best when there is consistency.” The Supreme Court is the law of the land, Olens said. He also said we aren’t governed by anarchy, but by our Constitution. Olens pointed to Nydia Tisdale in the crowd and said he has worked with her in the past. He also acknowledged his lawsuit against the city of Cumming over open meetings in 2012. However, he did not mention the back and forth letters between himself and Dana Miles, city attorney, earlier this year. The United Tea Party of Georgia’s next meeting is June 8 at 7 p.m. at Central Park.
NEWS
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 5
UDC holds Confederate Memorial Day CUMMING, Ga. — A service commemorating Confederate Memorial Day was held on April 25 at Beaver Ruin Baptist Church. Sponsored by Col. Hiram Parks Bell Chapter 2641, United Daughters of the Confederacy, the event was one of many being held throughout Georgia and elsewhere across the nation at the conclusion of the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, or as it is most commonly referred to in the south, the War Between the States. As April is officially designated by many states and municipalities across the south to be Confederate History and Heritage Month, such services are intended to focus attention on the historical aspect of the war as it affected the local citizenry and to pay honor to those soldiers and sailors who served in the military. The graves of twelve Forsyth soldiers are located in the cemetery at the church. The memorial address was given by Robert Jones, Director of the Kennesaw Historical Society, who spoke on the
topic “The End of the Confederacy: The Last Cabinet Meeting in Washington, Ga.” The Vietnam Cross of Military Service was awarded to Emory Jackson Hagan, III, a direct descendant of Corporal Aaron J. Hagan, Company D, 6th Georgia Cavalry, CSA. Having retired from the United States Marine Corps with the rank of Lt. Colonel, the recipient has continued to serve his country in numerous civilian capacities, and presently holds the rank of Brigadier General in the California State Militia Reserve. The service was held with the cooperation and assistance of the Col. Hiram Parks Bell Camp 1641, Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Hall Light Honor Guard, a reenactment unit who provided a military rifle and artillery salute at the conclusion of the honors for the Confederate dead buried in the church cemetery. —Kathleen Sturgeon
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COMMUNITY
6 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Cumming utilities department honored Received award for 17 years of excellence, resolution honoring all employees CUMMING, Ga. — On Monday, May 4, City of Cumming Department of Utilities employees were recognized as part of the recently established “Water Professionals Appreciation Day.” Mayor H. Ford read and signed a resolution acknowledging the day, which was recently created by the Georgia General Assembly, during the regular monthly City Council meeting on April 21. The City of Cumming Utilities Department employs some 55 people throughout five different divisions: Billing and Customer Service, Water Production, Distribution and Collection, Engineering and Storm Water and Water Pollution Control. Through the professionalism of these employees, the City of Cumming each day produces an average of 13 million gallons of drinking water during cooler weather months and around 17 million per day during summer months. The department serves residents of the city, as well as other portions of Forsyth County. The Water Pollution Control Division is responsible for treating more than two million
Employees of the Cumming Wastewater Treatment Facility recently celebrated receiving a 17-year Platinum Award for excellence. gallons of wastewater each day at the city’s multi-milliondollar Advanced Water Reclamation Facility off Bethelview Road. Employees in this division received additional recognition from the mayor and council in April as they
were honored with a recent 17year Platinum Award from the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. Jon Heard, utilities director, said the Platinum Award means the facility has remained in continual compli-
ance for the past 17 years with federal rules and regulations regarding the city’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) discharge permit. This system was first established several decades ago by the federal government
to insure the safety of wastewater after it is treated and released back into bodies of water. Through ongoing lab testing, employees at the Cumming Water Reclamation Facility ensure that wastewater, which is released back into local streams after treatment, is safe and in compliance with all federal and state environmental regulations. “I would like to congratulate Jimmy Andrews, our superintendent of Water Pollution Control, and all of his employees on this accomplishment,” Heard said. “They all work very hard and this 17-year Platinum Award is just a confirmation of all they do every day. “I was also very grateful to the mayor and council for recognizing all of our employees through the Water Professionals Appreciation Day resolution. Everyone in our department works hard to provide vital services which many people never even think about, but that are essential to our entire society.” For more information about the City of Cumming Department of Utilities and all its programs, go to www.cummingutilities.com.
SPORTS
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 7
Lambert soccer Europe crystal palace The team is composed of to Tommy Soukup (0), Luke Case (2), Charlie Soukup (3), Trey Pratt (5), Aidan Finch (6), Jack Wise (7), Anthony Thomason (8), Andrew Timms (9), Gavin Starcher (10), Andrew Fox (11), James Caramanico (12), Drew Kotanian (14), Dylan Holmes (15), John Caramanico (17), Tanner Overbay (19), Andrew Zeman (20), Wil Calhoun (21), Zach Vlajk (22), Rocky Davis (23), Jaden Scheib (25), Zack Tumminia (40), Will Bradford (55), Greg Steckel (77), Carson Berman (99), Coaches Jamie Davidson and Eric Tompkins.
6th Grade Jr. Longhorns win lacrosse championship FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Lambert High School sixth grade feeder lacrosse program won the Newtown Park League championship May 3 at Sawnee Mountain Park. The Jr. Longhorns defeated the Surge (Buckhead area) 8-4 in a highly competitive game between two very talented teams to complete a season that began back in early February. After finishing the season as the number two seed overall, Lambert defeated Fayette (Peachtree City, GA) 10-2 and then West Forsyth 8-3 before their victory over the Surge to win the championship in the first year Lambert has fielded a sixth grade team. The league games throughout the season were very competitive as the quality of lacrosse play continues to in-
crease rapidly throughout Forsyth County and the surrounding areas. For the Longhorns the beginning of the season was particularly challenging after losing two of the first three games both by one goal. But they were able to turn things around with seven straight wins including several by large margins. One of the early season turning points was when the team trailed undefeated Milton by three goals, 9-6 with just over two minutes to go in the game. Lambert stormed back scoring four goals in the final two minutes including the winning goal with less than 20 seconds remaining to win 10-9. “It was an adjustment early on playing such a step up in competition, but we have a talented group of players who worked incredibly hard each
practice and really bought into our focus on team and being part of the Longhorn family”, said coach, Jamie Davidson. “Coach Eric Tompkins and I are incredibly proud of this team’s improvement in all facets, teamwork, and accomplishments. Being the first ever sixth Grade Longhorn team, the boys certainly made it a team to remember.” The Jr. Longhorn teams are restricted to Lambert-bound boys and are part of the Longhorn Youth Lacrosse Association. This same group of players will have the opportunity to play together again next year as they look to win another championship at the seventh grade level. Visit http://longhornyouthlax.com for more information. —Kathleen Sturgeon
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CUMMING, Ga. — Nearly 40 Lambert soccer players traveled to England and France for 10 days of soccer training, soccer matches against European teams and sightseeing. The Lambert players also attended two Barclay’s Premier League matches. The trip was the third European tour for Lambert soccer. Players made trips to London and Paris landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Lambert will be having their summer soccer camps for ages 4 - 18 on June 8 - 12 and July 13 - 17. For more information and to register, go to www.LamberSoccer.com. —Joe Parker
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OPINION
8 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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Puppies, good books and Baltimore What were we talking So, my week came with a couple new life experiences. I brought home a new puppy – a 10-week-old Field Spaniel named Lewis – and for the first time in a while, I had enough down time to actually finish two books. The first book was the most recent from Malcolm Gladwell, the author of “The Tipping Point,” “Blink” and a couple other very best sellers. His new book, “David and Goliath,” is about many things, but one of the central themes is how people turn disadvantages and bad things into opportunities. Gladwell writes about how about a third of the world’s super entrepreneurs / billionaires are dyslexic and how their struggle to overcome their disadvantages made them resilient, tenacious, assertive, optimistic and yep, very, very successful. He says our environment impacts us in ways most of us would never imagine. He asks: Who would be the better hire – someone who graduates in the top 50 percent of their class in the top schools like Harvard, Yale or MIT, or those who graduate in the top 5 percent of good, but not the best, “good” schools? Gladwell fills the book with examples of ordinary people who accomplish extraordinary things in part because they have to learn to overcome deficiencies that they ultimately use to their advantage. It is a good, easy read and a worthwhile one. By the time I finished the second book, “The New Mind of the South” by a former AJC
Lewis
RAY APPEN
Publisher ray@appen mediagroup.com reporter and Pulitzer Prize finalist Tracy Thompson, I was ready to order a dozen copies to send my friends. Although the last chapter is not very kind to Atlanta, if you love the South – its culture, history and nuances, the good, bad and all in between – and if you appreciate a critical mind, this book is for you. Be prepared though. It does not sugar-coat the baseness nor does it gloss over the skeletons buried in the closets of our Southern heritage. But beginning with “the War Between the States” and ending with a discussion of the Beltway around Atlanta, it talks about the loss we have experienced as a result of our transition away from an agrarian society – a society that out of necessity provided a framework for connectivity to family and each other. Both books deal with a disconnect, a disenfranchisement, between people and the world around them. The first tells how we successfully react to that disconnect. The second addresses the causes. The knowledge of both helps us process current issues, including race and the growing fracture of our connection to each other in this increas-
ingly digital world. In that way, it provides some insight into what is going on today in cities like Ferguson and Baltimore. Thompson writes, “We live in a culture where we put our most intimate secrets on the Internet and have no idea who our next door neighbors are, where we labor in cubicles all day and go home at night to update our Facebook page. What we lack, what most of us know instinctively we are missing, what makes so many of us log into Facebook in the first place, is community.... the interdependent web of people, culture, economy and nature.” This loss of a sense of community is tearing the fabric of our world apart. It is creating a profound sadness. While I was outside reading Sunday, Lewis was tethered to me by a long leash. Every so often, he would stand on his hind legs and look over the arm of the chair to see what was distracting me from him. He would paw at me as I ignored him, distracted by my books and my phone and my iPad. But he kept it up until it finally dawned on me. If my attention is this important to a 10-week-old dog, how important must it be to the people around me? The fact that Lewis was even at my side is amazing to me. In the Field Spaniel dog world, if you are “outside” of the breeders network, getting a Field Spaniel is very close to impossible. They just do not let you in. So why were we allowed into that closed circle? My wife spent hours and hours on the phone with the woman who ultimately sold us our dog. She would email her, call her and subscribe to her newsletter. She asked her endless questions, and I frequently heard the laughter and engagement. In short, she listened. The woman sold us her big black bundle of furry puppy because she wanted a friend, I think – and because Christina simply cared about her and her dogs. That’s all anyone wants at the end of the day. They want someone to care. They want to matter. They want to be connected. They want, as Fyodor Dostoevsky said in another context, to give and receive love – directly, personally and unconditionally. It’s exactly what makes our world go around.
WHAT’S APPENING? With Keith Still
about? A thought on forgetfulness I’ve been forgetting a lot lately. As my wife is continually reminding me, I forget whole conversations and information she tells me. Oh, we are going out tonight with another couple? Did we talk about this? Oh, you told me three times… right. Sometimes I’m positive she makes up conversations we have in her head, then yells at me for not remembering them. Apparently this is not a smart opinion to voice. It turns out, I’m not to blame! Hurray! A recent article on Slate dove into men and their memories. As it turns out, nature vs. nurture treats men and women differently on the value of recognition. Some research suggests women and girls remember personal events faster and more accurately than their male counterparts. This can be chalked up, in part, due to how we raise girls and boys. When young girls are asked how their day was, the conversation can center on emotions and how they factor into the events. With boys, those feelings are less stressed. The story becomes about what to do about those feelings. Emotion against action, which is the traditional breakdown of the difference
JONATHAN COPSEY
Revue & News Editor jonathan@ appenmediagroup.com
between women and men. “The message that girls are getting is that talking about your feelings is part of describing an event,” said Azriel Grysman, a psychologist at Hamilton College who studies gender differences and memory, in the Slate article. “And for boys, emotions are something to be concerned with when they are part of a larger issue, but otherwise not. And it’s quite possible, over time, that those tendencies will help women establish more connections in their brains of different pieces of an event, which will lead to better memory long-term.” See! It’s not my fault at all. I blame my parents. I used to think I had a pretty good memory. Apparently this assumption was incorrect yet I rarely came into a confrontation challenging my version of events. Now that I have a permanent plus-1, I’m realizing just how wrong I can be.
Cut the media some slack As a member of the press, I hear complaints almost every day about how bad the media is. As a whole, the media gets blamed as the source of many of society’s ills. Following the riots in Baltimore and elsewhere, some people have been quick to say the media played a role by forcing the issue of racism or fear mongering just to get attention. Here at Appen Media, we recently shared various articles regarding the events in Baltimore. We received comments that our reporting on events like that is forcing others to be racist – as if media reports were the source of people shooting each other, looting and destroying prop-
KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com
erty and making this violence possible. We are just reporting the facts as we receive them, and I think for that reason, we should be cut some slack. It is not the media’s fault these negative events are happening. These are highly controversial incidents, which obviously grab the public’s attention. That makes it
See MEDIA, Page 29
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Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 9 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Local nonprofit Acting Troupe of Lambert hosts fundraiser for childhood cancer research raises awareness of rare brain tumor FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A wide range of talent from across Forsyth County came together on April 25 for a shared cause. The Smiley for Kylie Variety Show was hosted by the Acting Troupe of Lambert at the school’s auditorium. The program benefitted the Rally Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to find a cure for childhood cancer. The show was named to honor Kylie Myers, who at the age of 12 lost her own battle with cancer this past February. Members of the Acting Troupe of Lambert performed along with talent from Perimeter Christian School’s theater and ballet program, Acting Up - a theater group from First Redeemer Church, and the Lambert Orchestra. The cast from CYT also performed two numbers from their show Tarzan as well as contributing performances by the Lambert Band and Chorus. Organized by Lambert’s Drama Director Rebecca Houser along with Kylie’s parents Mark and Robin Myers and emceed by Acting Troupe of Lambert Booster Vice President Michelle Pastore, students performed for
ANAwareness week May 10-16
Students from Perimeter School including Kylie’s best friend Bailey who is a survivor of childhood cancer. an audience over 500 people. The night was about honoring Kylie’s two main passions theater and fighting childhood cancer. “This is a night Kylie would have enjoyed. To combine her love of theater with her mission of fighting cancer is perfectly fitting,” said Mark Myers, Kylie’s dad. “It is also exciting to see the passion of young people leading the way for such an important cause.
We are honored to share her legacy and eagerly await the next one.” The group raised $5,444 in one night. Additionally, with a matching donation from the Lambert Student Council, total amount raised came to $5,700. The next benefit hosted by the Acting Troupe of Lambert for Smiley for Kylie and Rally Foundation is scheduled for February 2016. —Kathleen Sturgeon
CUMMING, Ga. — A Forsyth County-based national nonprofit encourages thousands in the U.S. to take part in a campaign to raise awareness of a rare brain tumor called an acoustic neuroma during ANAwareness Week May 10-16. The Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) will host the third annual ANAwareness Week, a national effort to make the public aware of the symptoms and treatment options and highlight the importance of early detection of acoustic neuromas. There is relatively little information available to the general public regarding this benign, slow-growing tumor of the hearing and balance nerves. While acoustic neuroma is rare, ANA’s Medical Advisory Board reports that occurrence is nearly two in every 100,000 people and 2,500 to 3,000 are diagnosed annually in the U.S. The early symptoms include a reduction in hearing in the tumor ear, ringing in the ear,
a feeling of fullness in the affected ear, balance issues and headaches. These early symptoms are sometimes mistaken for normal changes of aging or attributed to noise exposure earlier in life and therefore the diagnosis is often delayed. “One of the biggest demands we face is that people simply have never heard of acoustic neuroma and are frightened by the possibility of a brain tumor,” said Chief Executive Officer of ANA Judy Vitucci. “We strongly believe in public education, providing local and national support for patients and helping patients thrive in spite of their acoustic neuroma.” ANAwareness Week is a national effort hosted by ANA during Brain Tumor Awareness Month each May. Supporters and sponsors raise awareness of the condition and funds to expand programs and services by participating in races, runs, letter-writing campaigns, social media campaigns and more.
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10 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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TherapyLand: Brooks family opens new autism center Continued from Page 1 pathology and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. Cheri said they wanted to make it something really special every time the children and parents came. “[TherapyLand is] special for the parents too,” Cheri said. “I would sit in my car and work on my computer [when my daughter had therapy]. I would see other parents try to take a nap and there was no place to go. That’s where we came up with the parent lounge, where you can sit, work on your computer, have coffee and just relax for a few minutes.” Aside from the therapies offered, Cheri said they have Brooks Academy, a pre-kindergarten ABA school. “Our goal is to build a foundation for those special needs children so they can enter into the school system when it comes time to go to kindergarten and they have that extra special care and support by actually being in a special needs school,” Cheri said. TherapyLand’s opening comes on the heels of a unanimous vote in both the Georgia House of Representatives and Georgia Senate for Ava’s Law. House Bill 309 relates “to insurance coverage for autism, so as to provide a short title; to provide for definitions; to provide for certain insurance coverage of autism spectrum disorders; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws and for other purposes.” Rep. Scot Turner (R-Holly Springs) worked with Ava’s Law for three years and attended TherapyLand’s grand opening. “Ava’s Law will open the door to access for families who are struggling with autism,” Turner said. “It will cover up to a certain amount for sciencebased therapies, like ABA or speech — things that have been proven to have a positive effect on children with autism.”
Our goal is to build a foundation for those special needs children so they can enter into the school system when it comes time to go to kindergarten and they have that extra special care and support by actually being in a special needs school.”
PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
Cheri, Jaslyn and Thane Brooks, center, cut the ribbon with Sen. Brandon Beach, Sen. Mike Williams, Rep. Mike Dudgeon, Sen. John Albers, various members of the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce and TherapyLand staff members.
CHERI BROOKS Co-founder TherapyLand
Turner said he wanted to see the facility, and it was amazing. “As access becomes available for families, it will offer these families an opportunity to have autism treated in a way it should be, as a medical condition,” Turner said. “It’s important there are providers out there that can meet that need for these families and lead these children on a path toward being productive adults.” Also in attendance were Sen. Brandon Beach, Sen. Mike Williams, Rep. Mike Dudgeon and Sen. John Albers. “We know Ava’s Law will help us facilitate what you do,”
From left, Rep. Scot Turner and Cheri Brooks discuss Ava’s Law. Albers said. “It’s our pleasure and honor to help out in any
The sensory room gives children a chance to explore.
way we can for children.” For more information on
TherapyLand, visit http:// www.therapyland.net/.
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Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 11 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Water world County’s Water Treatment Plant holds open house By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Because human bodies are comprised of two thirds water, we must constantly refill our system with water. But do we really know what goes into, or comes out of, our drinking water? The Forsyth County Water Treatment Plant, 2255Antioch Road, held an open house May 4 to answer questions and give a tour of the facility. Tim Perkins, the director for the department of water and sewer, said the current plant produces 16 million gallons of treated water a day. “In the wintertime, we do about 10 million gallons, summer peak day will be about 21 million gallons,” Perkins said. “If we get two weeks of hot and dry weather, all the sprinklers will come on. As long as we get regular rainfall, it’s not too bad. In 2006, we had a day where we did 26 million gallons, but that was about 15,000 fewer people in the county.” People have started to change their habits with education on preserving water, Perkins said, but back a few years ago, there was so much construction going on, the county used more water. “Back then, there was so much construction going on,” Perkins said. “There were 3,000-4,000 new homes with sod. Developers don’t irrigate quite as much when they put
in the new sod.” The facility has a 20 million gallon raw water storage tank, Perkins said, which is roughly a day’s supply. The county can treat water from that tank in the event of an emergency or in times of peak usage. “It allows us to hold water in case of power outages or emergencies,” Perkins said. “We can have a pump out and do maintenance to it, and we still have water here. It also allows us to add some peaks because we can physically treat more on a daily basis than we can pull out of the lake. So if we had a day we needed 18-20 million gallons, we can treat that much but we couldn’t pull out but 16, so we can use four million. Usually you have the weeklong spells where watering goes crazy, then you get a little shower and it drops off.” The water comes from Lake Lanier and then travels to the plant either from the lake itself or the city of Cumming, Perkins said. The plant is still connected to Fulton and Gwinnett counties. “We haven’t been able to get our own permit on core property to build one of our own, so we pay them to deliver our raw water,” Perkins said. “We also buy about 400 million gallons of finished water from them a year. We take that in the summer time to supplement the heat. Contractually the city wouldn’t let us out of that deal after our expansion. We treat the majority of water ourselves but we still get some water from the city.” People flushing pharmaceuticals into the water system is a common concern, Perkins said, but the water from Lake Lanier is relatively clean.
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Tim Perkins shows part of the water treatment facility. “Our water from Lake Lanier would be so much harder to affect than water from a river,” Perkins said. “In some of the rivers around, they’re finding traces of pharmaceuticals in their water. It’s not a concern currently, but water professionals are looking into it. That’s where education of disposal on drugs comes in.” Users might get in trouble if their own pipes are contaminating the water, Perkins said. Older houses often have pipes that will rust into the water, causing harm. In order to combat this, Perkins said they are required to add a few things to the water, including fluoride. “The levels [of fluoride] we put in are extremely low compared to the maximum level,” Perkins said. “The CDC says there’s a huge public benefit from it, so that’s who we listen to. We would have to go through a referendum process and the voters would have to approve us removing fluoride from the water. We also have to
add some corrosion inhibitors, phosphates to keep things from leeching out of pipes, brass mainly. Everything we put in now is lead free. You still have copper pipes in homes, but there is less lead. It’s not a dangerous product.” At the end of the day, Perkins said it’s all a “touchy-
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
feely job” in terms of noticing a problem like a leak. “We manage a big system full of leaks,” Perkins said. “We have all these pipes out there and people have their faucets running and at the same time they’re all draining these tanks, and we have to keep them full.”
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Tasty entertainment in Alpharetta Annual Taste draws tens of thousands
This year’s Taste of Alpharetta May 7 saw the streets packed with crowds.
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
ALPHARETTA, Ga. – For 25 years, the annual Taste of Alpharetta has gathered together the city’s best restaurants, and this year was no different, with an event that was bigger than ever May 7. Crowds gathered in downtown Alpharetta for nibbles from dozens of local restaurants. In addition to the food, there was a culinary competition, live music and familyfriendly fun zone areas with games, a petting zoo and inflatables. Alpharetta estimated 50,000 people showed up. The main stage at the west end of Milton Avenue first sported local band Von Grey – four sisters who jammed to their original music – before Blair Crimmins and the Hookers took over with their unique blend of ragtime and jazz. —Jonathan Copsey
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
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JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
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14 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
UPCOMING EVENTS Golf Networking League
Date: May 13 Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Location: Alpharetta Athletic Club (East Course)
Business Academy
Date: May 14 Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Location: Cabernet Steakhouse 5575 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta
Member Orientation Date: May 20 Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. Location: Harry Norman North Fulton 7855 Northpoint Parkway, Alpharetta
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
Some of the Forsyth County Master Naturalists are, from left, Rebecca Stuckey, Joni Hall, Carole “Mama Nature” Madan, Patty Oser and Jeannie Glisson-Davis.
Master naturalists celebrate Earth Day By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Earth Day may have come and gone already this year, but the Forsyth County Master Naturalists (FCMN) say every day should be treated like Earth Day. “It’s our environment and where we live,” said Patty Oser, director of Earth Day for the FCMN. “If we don’t protect it, we’ll be out of a place to live. We won’t have fresh air or water.” On May 2, FCMN set up shop at Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way, for their annual Earth Day celebration, which was postponed from April due to weather. The master naturalist program is an adult education program with hands-on environmental education, according to the group’s website. “We are here to give out
complimentary information to families on how to protect our natural resources,” said FCMN President Jeannie Glisson-Davis. “Our goal as volunteers is to give unbiased scientifically accurate information on protecting our natural resources.” The group hosts many projects throughout the county including a bluebird trail with custom-built nesting boxes along Big Creek Greenway and tree signs identifying the foliage along the Greenway. They are currently working on a kiosk at the entrance to the Greenway to serve as a learning center. The group’s next project is to acquire training as citizen scientists to monitor the county’s 15 different types of frogs, Glisson-Davis said. “If we don’t have all the species we’re supposed to have, we tell the scientists and
they’ll come out and investigate to make sure our water is clean and good for the environment,” Glisson-Davis said. Projects like these and events like Earth Day are reminders to the public as to why they should care about their environment, GlissonDavis said. “We want every generation to protect the natural environment and our natural resources,” Glisson-Davis said. “If we don’t provide opportunities for the next generation, then people won’t protect them and we’ll lose our native plants and clean water resources. If we share our knowledge with the families visiting the Greenway, then we can help them help their children so it carries on generation to generation.” For more information on the FCMN, visit http://fcmn. sharepoint.com/.
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Estates at Johns Creek gets $9M makeover Abbotts Bridge luxury apartment community full of upgrades, concierge service By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The tagline for Johns Creek is “Be the Exception,” and Mayor Mike Bodker said Resource Residential, who just spent $9 million renovating the former Addison Place on Abbotts Bridge Road, has embraced that motto to the hilt. “They have turned what was already a wonderful community in Johns Creek into something that is really special,” said Bodker. “If I weren’t a homeowner, I’d live here myself.” Chamber of Commerce boosterism aside, Resource Residential did pay what was at that time the highest price per square foot for Addison Place of any multifamily property to that date. Resource Residential then poured in $9 million to make upgrades to the property. Rebranded as Estates at Johns Creek, the complex has put its money where its tenants are. In addition, the refurbished apartment flats and townhouses have
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
The grounds are immaculately groomed and act as a walking trail.
new interiors, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Many contain a home office prewired for computer. They have added other extras: • Saltwater pools with outdoor kitchens • A movie theater • Kids’ rec room • Outdoor playground • Teen lounge and game room • E-lounge cafe • Fitness center • Tennis courts • Multi-sport court • Dog park Many units feature an office wired with the fastest bandwidth. “We offer a lifestyle at The Estates,” said Senior Marketing Manager Carmen Spencer. “And we have added many extras such as our valet trash take-away and our concierge dry cleaning.” Estates at Johns Creek residents should feel “exceptional” because they are treated “exceptionally,” to carry out the mayor’s theme. It is obvious in a city with one of the highest single-family home average values that the Estates would cater to a lifestyle that demands similar amenities. For instance, the flats and townhouses are wired with the fastest bandwidth available. The apartments have units up to four bedrooms, with the townhouses up to three bedrooms. Townhomes have garages. In addition to a movie theater at its spacious clubhouse, they will conduct cooking classes in the demonstration kitchen. A game room features a billiards table and a fitness center will offer yoga classes. The mature landscaping throughout the property is receiving upgrades as well. “What we want residents to know is they are getting true value in their apartment home living,” said Spencer. “With the lease comes a prompt and professional staff dedicated to the residents’ comfort and convenience.” They also want a sense of community on the property. To that end, beautiful communal spaces and monthly events are planned. Residents are busy people, too, conducting business. So there is resident business center with a conference room. Bodker said he likes to see companies like Resource Residential that buy quality properties and then re-invest.
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
The apartment lifestyle can be as gracious as the resident cares to make it.
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
One of the amenities is the home office with the fastest bandwidth available.
BusinessPosts
16 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com
Three ways to grow revenue Wealthy population Are you looking for new ways to grow revenue in your small business? Have you developed strategies to attract new customers or get repeat business from current clients? Do your plans for the future include adding new products or services? While there are an infinite number of strategies and tactics you can use to increase revenue, there are only three primary ways to make this happen. Probably the easiest of the three is selling your current customers additional products and services. If a current customer is spending money with you already, they are “low hanging fruit” to try to get
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them to buy either more of the same product or service, or something else you sell. The second way is to attract new customers. Understanding your target market and how they value your product or service is a starting point for getting business from a new customer. Adding new customers to your portfolio will allow you to increase your customer
base and lead to more revenue for your business. The last way to grow revenue is to offer new products or services. Apple used to sell just computers. Now they not only sell computers, they sell iPhones, iPads, iPods, iTouch, iWatch and a whole bunch of peripherals. Similar to Apple’s expansion of their product line, you can increase revenue by adding additional products or services to your portfolio. No matter what type of business you are in, there are only three primary ways to grow revenue: sell more to existing customers, attract new customers or add new products and services.
NewBusinessSpotlights
JAM Fitness open in Alpharetta Business: Just About Me Fitness Opened: February 2015 Owner: Mike Prosnick What: JAM Fitness is not like the average gym. We are a time-efficient, results-driven, 30-minute workout facility that is tailored to your level of fitness. Get personal coaching and nutritional guidance to fit your lifestyle. Hours: 24-hour access and workouts change monthly. Location: 4620 Kimball Bridge Road, Alpharetta Phone: 770-559-7555 Website: www.jam.fitness
Desu consignment opens in Alpharetta Business: Desu Couture Consignment Opened: Grand re-opening; Feb. 2015 Owner: Christina Sczurek What: Desu Couture offers high end, luxury and trendy labels at great prices. Where: 5530 Windward Parkway Suite 1240 in Alpharetta Hours: Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call: 404-985-7580 Web: www.desucouture.com
Bloor Dentistry opens in Alpharetta Business: Bloor Dentistry Relocated: March 2015 Owner: Dr. Priti Bloor What: This is a practice offering family dentistry. Bloor did her undergraduate work at the University of California, Irvine, receiving a bachelor’s degree in cell biology. She later attended UCLA School of Dentistry where she received her DDS. She graduated at the top of her class with honors and subsequently attended a general practice residency at the VA hospital at La Jolla, California. Hours: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday Location: 45 Roswell St., Suite A, Alpharetta Phone: 770-663-4435 Website: www.webuildgreatsmiles.com
continues upward climb By FRANK NORTON JR. Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” The number of billionaires hit a record high in 2014. A new survey shows that 155 new billionaires were minted last year pushing the total population to a record 2,325 – a 7 percent increase from 2013. Credit goes to the United States – home to the most billionaires globally – where 57 new billionaires were recorded, according to the Wealth-X and UBS Billionaire Census 2014. Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean were also large contributors, with 52 and 42 new entrants, respectively. “The fastest-growing segment of the billionaire population, in terms of wealth source, are those who inherited only part of their fortunes and became billionaires through their own entrepreneurial endeavors,” the report said, noting that 63 percent of all billionaires’ primary companies are privately held. The combined wealth of the world’s billionaires increased by 12 percent to $7.3 trillion, higher than the combined market capitalization of all the companies that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The average billionaire is 63 years old, with a net worth of $3.1 billion. The report noted that most wealthy individuals do not reach the $1 billion threshold until their late 40s. Almost 90 percent of male billionaires are married, 6 percent are divorced, 3 percent are single and 2 percent widowed. For male billionaires, the top five industries are finance and banking, industrial conglomerates, real estate, manufacturing and textiles and apparel and luxury goods. Sixty-five percent of female billionaires are married, 10 percent are divorced, 4 percent are single and 21 percent widowed. The rich hoard cash as their wealth reached a record high in 2014. About 12,000 of these new ultra-high net worth individuals were minted in the year ending June 2014, said the Wealth-X and UBS World Ultra Wealth Re-
FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency
port. This meant a 6 percent increase from last year, which pushed the global population of these millionaires to a record 211,275. With the annual gross domestic product of the United States closing in on the $17 trillion mark, according to the World Bank, this means that the ultra-rich now have almost twice the wealth of the world’s largest economy. Ultra-wealthy individuals hold nearly 25 percent – an extremely high proportion – of their net worth in cash. The majority of the millionaires are self-made and are involved in founder-owned private businesses, according to the report. The value of these private company holdings represents almost twice the amount that they hold in public company stakes. The report also predicted that the global UHNW population will reach 250,000 individuals in the next five years, an increase of 18 percent from last year’s figures. North American and Europe continue to dominate the survey, with the United States maintaining its position as the country with the most ultra-wealthy individuals with a total 69,560. Asia will be the region that sees the fastest growth in ultra-wealthy individuals, it added. There are more millionaires in the United States than ever before. The number of households with a net worth of $1 million or more, excluding their homes, is at a record 9.63 million. This eclipses the old mark of 9.2 million in 2007 before the global financial meltdown. The tally of millionaires slipped to 6.7 million in 2008 at the financial crisis trough. The number of households with $25 million or more also is at a new high of 132,000 and the number of families with $100,000 or more continues to climb. It’s now at 38.6 million, up from 37.4 million in 2012 and 31.2 million in 2008.
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Tech-funding experts offer insights into securing capital By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Close to 80 business executives were on-hand Thursday evening, May 7, at the Alpharetta Marriott for the Greater Alpharetta Tech Network’s first Tech Funding Symposium. A panel of nationally renowned tech investors from the Atlanta area shared expertise on entry-level to late-stage funding options and strategies for companies. “We’ve got 900-plus technology companies in the greater Alpharetta area, and many of those are startups to medium-sized companies who are or will be seeking funding,” said Karen Cashion, president and founder of GATN. “What we wanted to do was bring in some of the most highly respected leaders of the Atlanta investor community to share their knowledge and experience.” Panel members included: • Ramsay Battin from Eastside Partners; • Bill Benston from Cary Street Partners; • Joe Estes from Raymond
James; Jamie Hamilton from BIP Opportunities Fund II; • George Mashini, chief executive officer of Alpharetta-based Catavolt; • Charlie Paparelli from Paparelli Ventures. One of the key questions raised by tech executives Thursday was: What are investors looking for when seeking companies to invest in? Panelists agreed they were looking for more than a solid business plan from companies. They said it’s critical the start-up leaders include people who have years of experience and expertise in the product or service they are marketing. Another question that drew major discussion was how things change when a company receives investor funding. Panelists said entrepreneurs need to be aware that bringing in investors means a loss of ownership control. While it’s often viewed as a cause for celebration, company founders need to be aware that they are making themselves responsible to investors for the success of the company, panelists said. •
Moderator Brian Nash and panelists (from left) Bill Benston, Ramsay Battin, George Mashini, Joe Estes, Charlie Paparelli and Jamie Hamilton at the GATN 2015 Tech Funding Symposium. “It’s a very serious undertaking, because now you have investors who expect you to take those funds and use them and multiply them, and grow the company in a significant way that’s going to give them a return on their investment,” Cashion said. GATN plans to hold the Tech Funding Symposium each year, Cashion said. Thursday was the one-year anniversary of the group’s founding. “Every one of the events we hold is
intended to be educational and include thought leaders so the executives from these tech companies can have a lot of take-away from the event,” she said. The next scheduled event is June 17, when Asif Ramji, CEO of Paymetric in Roswell, will speak on how his company successfully obtained private funding and produced double-digit growth. The event will be held at the Peak 10 campus in Alpharetta.
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Honda Power Equipment sets major milestone ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Honda Power Equipment, located in Alpharetta, announced this month that it recently shipped its 40 millionth power product to domestic dealers and distributors since it began sales of outdoor power equipment in the United States in 1973. In recognition, executives helped celebrate the actual 40 millionth power product sold to a customer at Weingartz in Utica, Michigan. Weingartz has been a Honda Power Equipment dealer since 1978. Launching its U.S. operations with only engines, tillers, generators and outboard engines for sale, Honda Power Equipment has evolved into one of the leading global power products suppliers. It currently provides more than 60 models of power products in six major product families, 30 basic models of general-purpose engines, and the industry’s widest variety of four-stroke outboard engines.
McCulloch+Company expands service with Cox ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Cox Automotive has expanded its media agency partnership with Roswell-based media services company McCulloch+Company. In addition to managing dealer-facing advertising media planning and buying for AutoTrader.com, Kelley Blue Book, vAuto and Trade-In Marketplace, McCulloch+Company will now also manage dealerfacing advertising media activity for Manheim and NextGear Capital. Additionally, McCulloch+Company will provide consulting services for other Cox Automotive brands. McCulloch+Company has worked with AutoTrader.com since 1998, Kelley Blue Book since 2011, various Manheim business units since 1997 and vAuto since 2012. McCulloch+Company will provide media planning, campaign implementation, program management, partnership development and research services to Cox Automotive.
spent the last 13 years working in transportation and public policy in Atlanta. As executive director of the North Fulton CID, she oversees the organization’s project management team and daily operations. Her experience in transportation financing and project delivery was cited as key qualifications for her appointment to GRTA, as the organization strives to improve Georgia’s transportation network. Hanlon previously worked for the Perimeter CID and the Atlanta Regional Commission.
Clearside to collaborate on glaucoma treatment ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Clearside Biomedical has announced an expansion of its research collaboration with California-based Santen to include the field of glaucoma. The two companies have been working together since January 2013 to develop drugs to treat diseases afflicting the retina and choroid that can eventually lead to blindness. The expanded collaboration will now study the use of Clearside’s proprietary micro injector to deliver sustained intraocular pressure-lowering medications.
Hiser Orthodontics to add pediatric dental services
Bassell joins Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta
CUMMING/SUWANEE, Ga. – Hiser Orthodontics, the largest orthodontic practice in Forsyth and Gwinnett counties, is expanding its dental service to include pediatric dental services in both its Cumming and Suwanee locations. As part of the expansion, the company is changing its name to Children and Teen Dental Group. “We believe that this expansion will provide the best possible dental care for your child, as we now have a pediatric dentist along with our orthodontist within the same practice so they can now collaborate together to ensure the best possible treatment is provided,” said Chief Executive Officer Lee Provow. The company has hired Stephanie Phillips as its new pediatric dentist. Phillips has over five years of practice experience and has two young children of her own. She is a graduate of the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and is also a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
ATLANTA — Realtor Steven Bassell, who specializes in residential new home communities throughout Atlanta, has joined Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta as a real estate advisor and new homes specialist. “Steven is a great addition to our new homes division,” said Scott Payne, vice president of Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta. “Steve BASSELL has made it his mission to find our clients the right home throughout North Georgia and metro Atlanta, be it a home in a newly constructed neighborhood, a luxury resale or a residence in a 55-plus community.” “I am especially inspired by Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta’s focus on exceptional customer service,” said Bassell, a Cumming resident. He is a member of the Atlanta Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors, and has more than 20 years of sales and negotiation experience.
Ann Hanlon is welcomed to GRTA by Gov. Nathan Deal.
CID director appointed to transportation agency ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The North Fulton Community Improvement District has announced that Executive Director Ann Hanlon has been named to the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority Board of Directors. A native of South Georgia, Hanlon has
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CALENDAR CALENDAR
Johns Creek Herald | September 25, 2015 | 1 Submit your event online at forsythherald.com
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TWELFTH NIGHT
The North Fulton Drama Club presents their interpretation of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” at Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive in Roswell.Friday, May 15 at 7 p.m. Although admission is free, a $5 donation requested. Call 678-561-2273 or visit northfultondramaclub.com for more info.
MUSIC:
SCRUB RUN & HEALTH FESTIVAL
5K and festival hosted by Emory Johns Creek Hospital, 6325 Hospital Parkway in Johns Creek. Saturday, May 16, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Participants are asked to bring at least one pair of new, adult socks or underwear. Call 678=474-8017 or visit emoryjohnscreek.com for more info.
When: Tuesday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. Web: playhousecumming.com
EVENTS:
ROCK, ROLL, AND REMEMBER
What: Michael O’Neal Singers present a tribute to the American Bandstand era. Where: Roswell UMC, 814 Mimosa Boulevard When: Friday, May 15 at 8 p.m. Cost: $15 - $22 Web: mosingers.com
NEEDTOBREATHE
Tour De Compadres featuring Needtobreathe, Ben Rector, Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors and Colony House at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway in Alpharetta. Saturday, May 16, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets from $19.50. Visit vzwamp.com for more info.
will be distributed to North Fulton non-profits along with funds for college scholarships and grants. Where: St.David’s Episcopal Church, 1015 Old Roswell Road in Roswell When: Wednesday, May 20 at 7 p.m.
GUNS AND HOSES
Golf tournament supporting the Johns Creek Public Safety Foundation and Special Olympics Georgia at St Ives Country Club, One St Ives Country Club Drive in Johns Creek. Monday, May 18. $150 per person or $600 for a team of four. Call 678-777-6313 or email stevebroadbent@ comcast.net for more info.
help you look at your poems objectively to make them polished works of art. Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road in Johns Creek When: Saturday, May 16 Hours: 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Web: www.afpls.org
ROSWELL TOUCH A TRUCK
What: Public safety staff will have trucks and equipment on display for children. Where: City Hall, 38 Hill Street When: Saturday, May 16 Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost: Free
SHANNON WEAVER Calendar Editor calendar@appenmediagroup.com
Submit your event to northfulton. com or email with photo to calendar@northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.
start Cost: $175 individual, $700 for team of four Web: get.org
IT’S JUST HAIR
YOGA CLASS
What: Johns Creek Recreation & Parks offers a free Outdoor Fitness program this spring. Where: Newtown Park Amphitheater, 3150 Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek When: Sunday, May 17 at 9 a.m. Info: Must be 16 years of age or older on the day of class or accompanied by an adult. Web: johnscreekga.gov
CHARITY PRO/AM
What: Professional/amateur tennis tournament benefiting Kingdom Kids, which grants wishes to children with terminal or critical illnesses. Where: Laurel Springs Tennis Center, 5355 Laurel Oak Drive, Suwanee When: Saturday, May 16 at 9 a.m. to Sunday at 2 p.m. Contact: admin@ supportkingdomkids.com Web: supportkingdomkids. com
Who: It’s Just Hair is a cuta-thon donating hair to Locks of Love. When: Monday, May 18 Hours: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Where: Taylor Brooks Salon, 11705 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta Cost: Free Contact: itsjusthair@gmail. com
UNITY CONCERT
What: The Alpharetta Community Chorus presents ““Magnificat,” followed by the orchestra performing songs such as “Black is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” and “The Garten Mother’s Lullaby.” Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church When: Sunday, May 17 at 3 p.m. Cost: free
NORTH GEORGIA CHAMBER SYMPHONY
What: North Georgia Chamber Symphony’s spring concert features Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12, with soloist Joanna Kim, from UNG-Gainesville. Where: Cumming Playhouse
SUNSET SIPS HOUSE PROUD BOOK SIGNING
What: Local author, Lori Eriksen Rush presents "House Proud: a Social History of Atlanta Interiors" lecture, book signing and digital presentation. Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue in Roswell When: Thursday, May 14 at 7 p.m Call: 770-992-1731 for reservations
RWC MEETING
What: Roswell Woman’s Club distribution ceremony. Funds
What: Stroll the Chattahoochee Nature Center after-hours— grab a beverage, listen to live acoustic music, and enjoy the nature center under the spring and summer sunset. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell When: Thursday, May 14 at 5:30 p.m. Cost: General admission $10 adults, free to CNC members
CRAFTING THE POEM
What: Poet Karen Paul Holmes shows you a selfediting method that will
MAINTAINING AND PRUNING SHRUBS AND ROSES
MARY MCLAIN SMITH GOLF CLUB
What: Support Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s productions and arts education programming at this golf tournament. Where: Alpharetta Athletic Club East Course, 3430 Highway 9 in Alpharetta When: Monday, May 18 Hours: 11 a.m. registration and lunch, 1 p.m. shot gun
What: Master Gardeners explain how to prune and maintain shrubs and roses Where: Bill Johnson Community Activity Building in Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell, and the Alpharetta Engineering/ Public Works Department, 1790 Hembree Road , Alpharetta When: Tuesday, May 19 in Roswell and Wednesday, May 20 in Alpharetta Hours: 7-8:30 p.m. Web: nfmg.net
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SCHOOLS
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 19
South Forsyth DECA presents solutions to littering By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — While many teens may be the ones doing the littering along highways and lakes, a group of students at South Forsyth High School (SFHS) is trying to fix that problem. The SFHS DECA club met with community leaders May 6 to discuss the littering problem in the county and how to solve it. The marketing students had researched littering and found that their peers, mainly young males from ages 18-25, are the ones doing the most littering – and they are usually doing it while driving. In addition to littered roadways, Lake Lanier was another area that collected a lot of litter, the students said. Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills came up with an idea to partner with the club and their teacher, Debra Moore, to think of new solutions. “The landfill is in my district and I get a lot of complaints about garbage in District 4, and on Ga. 369,” Mills said. “I talked to Tammy Wright at Keep Forsyth County Beautiful (KFCB) a lot and we were brainstorming what we could do. I thought about Debra Moore and I was very impressed with the DECA club
here. “Instead of hiring a consultant, what better way to engage young people who live in the county than asking them to get involved in coming up with identifying and seeing the problem and letting them come up with solutions?” Mills said. Wright and Mills challenged the students to figure out who, where and what is being littered the most. Two marketing classes and DECA students then grouped off and were given the same task of figuring out how to use different media, create a new logo and make an anti-littering campaign last over three years. The students said their peers would respond better to using social media the most and that having contests on there would get them involved and competitive. Two groups also created a way to get younger students involved by starting the anti-littering campaign in elementary schools in the county. “They get really into the competition,” Moore said. “They were excited to have the opportunity. It’s a great way to build their resume and put them a step ahead in their college interviews and apply for internships in college.” The ideas the students pre-
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“They did such a good job and one day I wondered why I’m doing things for hypothetical businesses rather than real ones,” Moore said. “About 13 years ago, I started doing projects for real businesses and
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What Controversy Surrounds Hypothyroidism Treatment?
Solution to unsteady dentures: Dental Implants
By DR. SEAN SAVEDOFF
By Dr. Ushma Patel Center for Advanced Dentistry
Unfortunately, there are many physicians that still believe that they can rely on the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test alone to determine if someone has hypothyroidism. They rely on the lab results, and if you fall within the “norm,” then you must not have hypothyroidism, despite having many of the symptoms of this common condition. However, advocates of further testing state that TSH levels do not indicate what circulating thyroid hormones are actually doing in your body. Therefore, the TSH test does not provide the complete picture. Another thing to remember is that normal does not always mean optimal. That is a very important distinction to make! Some doctors will also (or only) test your T4 levels. However, it often stops there. Advocates of further testing point out that even if your TSH lab result comes back “normal,” it does not necessarily mean that your body has enough of it. In addition, if your T4 levels are “normal” according to lab results, it
does not mean that your body is converting it to T3 (to be used by your tissues) appropriately. In contrast, the assumption by the endocrinology community has been that there is nothing that goes wrong with DR. SAVEDOFF the T4 to T3 conversion process in people’s bodies. But hypothyroidism is easy to treat, right? Many physicians have been taught that treatment of hypothyroidism is pretty standard, and easy to treat. You do one or two bloods tests. The lab results indicate whether that patient is hypothyroid. Easy, right? False. If you speak to many patients with diagnosed hypothyroidism, they will tell you that despite treatment with thyroxine (T4) medications alone, they still do not feel completely normal. In fact, it is estimated that only 50% of people receive proper treatment. In
See TREATMENTS, Page 28
If you have dentures you probably hate them. Rather than give you a finger-wagging lecture about “you should have taken better care of your teeth in your youth,” I think I’ll just tell you what you can do to finally get rid of that glass of water on your nightstand. How do you do it? Dental Implants. This amazing breakthrough in dental technology can free you from slipping, loose or otherwise bothersome dentures forever. With implants you can once again enjoy the full flavor of your food. They can let you enjoy foods you couldn’t eat before. Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. Here’s how they work: Small anchors are placed into the bone structure in the same place your natural teeth were once located. Then dental restorations are placed over the anchors. The result is natural looking teeth that look so much like real teeth that only a dentist can tell the difference. And sometimes even we have a hard time! Consider this: Modern medicine can provide prosthetic devices such as
artificial limbs, “glass” eyes, even cosmetically rebuilt ears and other body parts. But no one expects these to perform in the same way the original equipment did. In other words, you wouldn’t expect to be DR. USHMA able to see out of an PATEL artificial eye or bend the toes of a prosthetic foot. Yet with modern dentistry we can replace the natural equipment (teeth) with human made devices that not only look exactly like the original, but also perform in the same way too. Even if you only have a partial denture, you can benefit from implants. It’s possible that you may only need one or two implants which can then eliminate the need to use a partial denture. Restore your confidence and improve your life. Ask us what dental implants can do for you! For more information call Dr. Ushma Patel from Center for Advanced Dentistry at 678-894-7926 or visit www.JohnsCreekImplantDentist.com.
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Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is the Are you having a hard time finding a primary care doctor? New Signature in Assisted Living According to a recent report by the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, the state ranked 39th in the ratio of doctors per 100,000 population. The doctor shortage continues to limit patients’ access to care and is most critical in primary care. Some doctors have stopped taking new patients altogether. If you do find a doctor that will accept you as a new patient, you may still have to wait if you want to schedule a routine visit. If you are on Medicare or Medicaid you might not be able to find a doctor and may have to visit the emergency room. In which case, you will have to wait and may not see the same doctor again. There is a solution – the best time to find a new primary care doctor is when a new practice opens. You need to sign up early on, even if it’s for a routine physical. Most insurances pay for a physical once a year without requiring any co-pay. If you sign up early on, the doctor will be familiar with your medical history and it will be easier to get an appointment later on when you have a medical condition. You need to sign up before the doctor stops accepting new patients! Fortunately, for residents of North Atlanta, signing up with an experienced primary care doctor just got easier with the opening of a new clinic in Alpharetta. Alpha Family Medicine is a primary care clinic that specializes in Family and Geriatric Medicine for
all ages – children, adults and elders. The clinic is centrally located on North Main Street (Highway 9), close to City Hall. Currently, the clinic is accepting new patients. You can walk-in or schedule a same day appointment with the Doctor. Or if you cannot make it during office hours, you can schedule an appointment for early mornings late evenings, or weekends. The clinic is operated by Shyla Reddy, MD and her medical staff. Dr. Reddy has more than 15 years of primary care experience in Family & Geriatric Medicine. She is board certified in Family and Geriatric Medicine. She taught/supervised medical students and resident doctors in an university setting. She also obtained a fellowship in Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology from Emory University. To sign up as a new patient or to schedule an appointment, contact 678-619-1974 or visit www.alphafammed.com
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Retirement living should be exceptional living. Situated in one of the most desirable spots in Johns Creek, this new 100 apartment community is within close proximity to world-class healthcare facilities, cultural venues, fine shopping and dining. Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is a one-ofa-kind community offering a luxurious lifestyle with concierge services, chef-prepared meals, housekeeping and more, without a large investment or long-term commitment. “We are changing the way people live,” says Beth Richardson, Executive Director at Arbor Terrace. “Working with strong on-site partners in healthcare, including 24 hour nursing staff and on site therapy, we can provide as much or as little care as our residents
need.” Arbor Terrace’s goal is to provide the residents with comfort, security and peace of mind. This beautiful community will have all the amenities you would expect including a fitness center with a variety of exercise and educational offerings as well as a vibrant social calendar. As Judd Harper, President of the Arbor Company points out, “We consider it our priority to help you stay fit and healthy. Our dedicated staff is committed to facilitating our residents’ physical, intellectual and cultural well-being.” For more information on Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek, please call (770)-999-9577 and visit our website at www.at-johnscreek.com.
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Smilescapes Dentistry in Alpharetta provides the latest in Cosmetic Dental Services By Dr. Robert Woods As a cosmetic dentist in the Alpharetta area, my top priority is giving patients a beautiful smile. It is important to stay on top of the all the changing trends in the cosmetic dental industry. I’ve been a practicing dentist and cosmetic dentist for nearly 30 years, and a lot has changed in that time, especially in terms of the technology, machines, and materials we use on a regular basis. Smilescapes Dentistry offers all the latest in cosmetic dental services, and I consult
with each patient to ensure that we are meeting all their needs in a comfortable, relaxing environment. Some of the new and WOODS improved cosmetic treatment options available: Veneers: Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain over the front teeth to change the color or shape of your teeth. Prepless or minimal Prep
Veneers: These veneers provide the same aesthetic and functional benefits that porcelain veneers do. They are a good option for patients who want veneers but are hesitant to file down healthy tooth enamel or simply want a larger more esthetic smile. Bonding: Bonding is tooth colored material used to fill in gaps between teeth or change the color of teeth or a dark tooth. Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements that are used in order to compensate for a
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missing tooth. Prettau Implant Bridge: This process is the future of dentistry to replace several missing teeth, a denture, or failing dental work. It is very cosmetic and very durable. Bleaching: Bleaching is still a common and popular process used to whiten teeth. Soft Tissue Contouring: contour the tissue around the teeth to even out the gum line or increase the size of small, short teeth when you smile. Clear Aligner Braces: Clear correct or invisaligne to straighten crooked teeth. Botox: In combination with
comprehensive cosmetic dental treatment can take years off. I understand that my patients have extremely busy lives, and I customize my schedule so I’m in the office when they need me. Unlike many dental practices in the area, Smilescapes Dentistry offers same day appointments, as well as early morning and lunchtime appointments for those with hectic work schedules. For more information, please call (770)-551-0808 or visit the practice’s website, www.smilesalpharetta.com. We are located at 4190 Old Milton Parkway Suite 2-G, Alpharetta, GA 30005.
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www.smilesalpharetta.com • 770.551.0808 4190 Old Milton Pkwy., Suite 2G • Alpharetta, GA 30005
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There’s an APP for that! For your ears and your world By DR. DEBORAH WOODWARD Can you imagine being able to stream the sounds from your iPhones and iPads directly into hearing devices that NO ONE else can see? What if you could answer or make phone calls and clearly hear the person on the other end through both ears? The marvels of technology have made these scenarios possible to create a seamless connection to a world filled with sounds. More than 36 million Americans experience hearing challenges in various environments and situations - a frustrating disadvantage to those affected. Forget about what you think you know about hearing devices up to now. You will be AMAZED at how smart, how helpful, and how transforming better hearing can now be. “As an audiologist for almost 24 years, it is both exciting and overwhelming to stay on top of the latest advances in hearing technology. It is a very fulfilling time to be in a profession that is truly transforming people’s lives by connecting them to the world in a way that others take for granted” says Dr. Deborah Woodward. “Another leap forward has been the very successful extended wear option.”
These devices are invisible to others, worn 24/7 for months at a time, and have no batteries to change. If you have a mild to moderate hearing loss, this cutting edge option may be right for you. As the local community’s leading link to better hearing over the past 17 years, Dr. Deborah Woodward and her staff at the Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center have successfully led thousands of hearing challenged patients to a more enjoyable and fulfilling life. Dr. Woodward offers patients not only improved day to day communication, but also the solutions to those challenging listening environments such as restaurants, group meetings, phone communication, and yes, that age old argument between spouses on the “correct” loudness of the television volume. Countless devices and services are now being marketed to assist the hearing challenged but like fingerprints, no two ears are the same. Consulting with an audiologist is an absolute must. The “one model fits all” bought from a magazine or website has the potential to actually add MORE damage to your current hearing profile. If in need of help, you can rely on the expertise of a Doctor of Audiology and a
Your Itchy Pet: Spring Time Treat (ments)! Springtime in the South heralds the onset of allergic skin diseases in our favorite four legged furry family friends: our dogs and cats! Flea bite saliva and environmental allergens can trigger skin heat, redness, and itching sensations. The usual sites of itch are: the digits of the paws, face (especially around the eyes), the ears, and rears (anus and tail) of dogs and cats. Flea salivary allergens injected into the skin and environmental allergens (pollens; mold spores; house dust/ house dust mites, cockroach debris, etc.) are inhaled or absorbed through the skin to cause itch. Your pet may exhibit excessive scratching, paw licking and chewing, facial rubbing and hair loss. If your pet has fleas, be proactive and visit your primary care veterinarian for the most effective flea control products. Two prescription products with excellent
safety profiles to kill fleas are 1) Oral, great tasting Nexgard (dosed monthly; also kills ticks) and 2) the Seresto Flea & Tick Collar (excellent repelling/killing effects for 8 months). What if your pet has been diagnosed with environmental allergies? Some excellent modes of therapy are available. The safest and most biologic treatment is weekly immunotherapy vaccine injections given usually for at least 3 – 5 years. A wonderful new oral drug, Apoquel is available for severely allergic dogs needing immediate attention. Apoquel can be used in place of steroid pills and injections because Apoquel does not have the numerous potential worrisome steroid side effects. Written by Dr. Mary Schick, your local board certified veterinary dermatologist, owner of Atlanta Veterinary Specialists, the specialists who know your pets best!
Center with a proven TRUST record to help plan your personal and unique solution to “better” hearing. The Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Center is known for their competitive pricing along with award winning service. They can also provide diagnostic testing for hearing disorders, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and ear wax management. All major insurance plans are accepted and no interest finance plans are offered. Call (770)814-1260 to schedule YOUR life changing appointment
May 13, 2015 25
26 May 13, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald
Stroke affects young people more and more Young stroke survivor runs local support group
Post Bariatric Surgery By LUNA PLASTIC SURGERY Post bariatric surgery can consist of multiple procedures that can remove excess skin and fat after experiencing significant weight loss, giving a much slender appearance in the waist, upper arms, thighs, and neck. In order to achieve the body contour patients desire, Dr. Yugueros will recommend post bariatric surgery. The procedure time is 4 to 7 hours and recovery time is around 3 to 6 weeks. The best candidate for this procedure is someone who has experienced dramatic weight
loss and has sagging in the face, neck, breast, arms, abdomen, back and thighs. It’s best if the patient has reached DR YUGUEROS a stable weight, does not smoke and is in good general health. Post Bariatric Surgery is a very intimate and emotional procedure that requires the care and attention of an expert plastic surgeon. Dr.
See SURGERY, Page 27
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Most young people don’t have a stroke, right? Well, not quite. The incidence of stroke in people aged 20-64 jumped by a quarter between 1990 and 2010, a recent study found. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and a leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. A stroke occurs when blood vessels that carry oxygen to the brain become blocked or burst. When the brain cannot get enough oxygen, brain cells begin to die, causing disability and sometimes death. Nearly 80 percent of strokes are caused by a blockage from a blood clot or plaque. The other 20 percent results from bleeding. For Lori Murphy, who was 31 when she experienced a stroke, finding a support group after her stroke was among the obstacles she faced. So she created one. “I felt like there was a need for reaching out to other people my age who had a stroke,” Murphy said. Through Northside Hospital, Murphy helps run a free monthly support group for young stroke survivors, 35 and under. The common misconception that
strokes only happen to the elderly can lead to delayed care. In Murphy’s case, doctors were caught by surprise. “There’s no way that a 31-year-old female would be having a stroke,” she recalled doctors in the emergency room of a Savannah hospital saying. This was eight years ago and Murphy says doctors have come a long way since. “It’s unfortunate and it’s
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one of the things that comes with being young,” Murphy said. “Young people are having strokes more and more and it’s no longer being overlooked.” After the stroke, Murphy had to re-learn many skills. What she used to consider simple tasks, like putting her hair in a ponytail, slipping on a pair of flip-flops, or cooking a meal for herself, became challenges that required a lot of concentration. In addition to the physical complications, a stroke also has a social impact. Relationships between friends can become strained, she said. That’s why support groups are so crucial to the rehabilitation process. Murphy, who is now 39, is able to drive herself and do the things that she needs to survive, but it took time. “There is life after stroke, and I’m thankful that I have amazing parents as my caregivers, and I also have great doctors as well, here in the Atlanta area,” Murphy said. “I still don’t have the fine motor skills in my left hand, but my body learns to adapt. It only continues to get better with time.” The young stroke survivors group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month to promote knowledge, psychological well-being and successful adjustment. Groups are facilitated by a registered nurse. Registration is not required to attend the meetings, which take place at the Northside/Interchange Professional Building, 5780 Peachtree Dunwoody Road in Sandy Springs, Ga. 30342. Upcoming dates include: May 18; June 15; July 20; August 17; etc... Visit northside.com for more information.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
May 13, 2015 27
RESTORE Your Vision – REFRESH Your Appearance By DR. KIRAN SAJJA Our eyelids play a vital role in the normal function of our eyes and maintenance of clear vision. First, the eyelids are a physical barrier that shields the ocular surface from the damaging environment. Second, the motion of the eyelids allow for the even spread of our tears over the surface of our eyes necessary for optimal visual clarity. And finally, the eyelids define the overall aesthetic of the face and convey our emotion and mood. Eyelid dermatochalasis or “eyelid bagginess” is related to stretching and thinning of the
eyelid skin. This often affects both the upper and lower eyelids giving a puffy or wrinkled appearance. At times, the excess skin DR. SAJJA can rest on or over your eyelashes interfering with your vision. Other common complaints include eyelid redness or itchiness, tearing, or headache. Women often note difficulty applying and maintaining eye make-up, such as mascara, eyeliner or eye shadow. This condition can
be significantly improved with an easy outpatient surgical procedure. Your evaluation with Dr. Sajja would determine if the procedure is covered by your medical insurance. In addition, Dr. Sajja has considerable experience in cosmetic concerns of the eyelids and face employing advanced surgical techniques and facial injectables, such as Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Juvederm® XC, Radiesse®, Belotero®, and Restylane®. Dr. Sajja will perform a detailed evaluation and provide recommendations to allow you to
achieve a balanced, youthful and energetic result. Patients often elect to combine functional eyelid correction with cosmetic procedures to help turn back the clock and restore a more healthy and vibrant appearance. Dr. Sajja has a unique blend of experience, compassion and artistry that he shares with each and every patient. With the addition of Dr. Sajja, Milan Eye Center will expand the unsurpassed level of care and services provided to the North Atlanta community. Milan Eye Center has four
convenient locations around North Atlanta: Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, and Buford. Milan Eye Center is a premier ophthalmology practice and is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals including Northside Forsyth, Northside Cherokee, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Dr. Sajja is accepting new patients at all Milan Eye Center locations. Please call 678381-2020 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on Dr. Sajja and to schedule your consultation today.
Rejuvenate Your Vision and Look. Do You Suffer From
Droopy Eyelids? Symptoms: • Eyelid heaviness and bagginess • Headaches due to lifting of forehead • Tearing • Decrease in peripheral vision • Tilting of your head to see properly Services Offered: • Upper/Lower Lid Blepharoplasty • Browlift • Ptosis Repair • Ectropion/Entropion Repair • Eyelid / Facial Spasms • Tear Duct Surgery
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Surgery: Continued from Page 26 Yugueros has received many testimonials from her patients and here are some direct quotes. “You have given me back a confidence that I never thought I would have again. I view myself in a completely different way. They say that beauty is
to stay hydrated regardless of the season. Making up more than two-thirds of the weight of the
See WATER, Page 28 in the eye of the beholder and I didn’t feel beautiful before. You changed that for me and I will be forever grateful.” Dr. Yugueros specializes in post-bariatric or weight loss surgery and feels pride in her work from the reactions she receives from her patients. To learn more information and read more testimonials visit www.lunaplasticsurgery.com or call 678-892-7820.
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28 May 13, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
Water: Continued from Page 27 human body, water is critical to keep the body’s cells and organs functioning properly. Keeping your body hydrated, says the American Heart Association, helps the heart pump blood more easily through the blood vessels to the muscles and helps the muscles remove waste so that they can work efficiently. As you work, play and exercise, here are six questions to ask yourself to ensure you and your family are staying regularly hydrated: 1. How much water should I drink each day? • Recommendations for water intake vary by person but wellness experts generally agree that drinking 6 to 8 eight-ounce glasses of water each day is a healthy goal. Individuals who exercise frequently and pregnant women should increase their intake. 2. Sugary drinks seem to quench my thirst as much as water. Is one better than the other? • Under most circumstances, water is the best source of fluid to keep the body hydrated. Caffeinated beverages can cause you to actually lose more fluids and sugary drinks can be hard on
the stomach. It’s best to stick to water when trying to stay hydrated. 3. What else can I do to stay well hydrated? • Foods such as fruits and vegetables that contain a high percentage of water can help supplement your intake. Try tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, watermelon and strawberries. 4. I have trouble remembering to drink water. What should I do? • Add drinking a glass of water or reusable water bottle of water to your daily routine. For example, drink a glass of water after you wake up or while watching your favorite show. Drinking water before a meal can help you feel fuller faster and perhaps prevent overeating. 5. How can I be sure my water is pure? • To help reduce contaminants that may be in your tap water and provide filtered drinking water for your family, you can get a water filtration system. For example, 3M offers a wide range of filtration products, some of which address pesticides, nitrates, arsenic and other contaminants that may be found in water. 6. Where can I learn more? • Visit www.3mwater. com/yesIwanta3MWaterSolution and www.facebook. com/3MWaterDealer.
Treatments: Continued from Page 20 other words, treating hypothyroidism is not as simple to treat as some practitioners may lead you to believe. There are also patients who cannot get the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, despite feeling tired and cold all the time. The fatigue interferes with their daily functioning, and still they continue to live with undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Are things changing? There are more physicians who are beginning to move away from relying on the TSH and/or the T4 as the be-all and end-all of diagnosing this common condition. Some are also beginning to realize the importance of adding T3 hormone as an adjunct to T4 hormone treatment. Others also support the use of natural, dessicated thyroid in treatment. Fortunately, more studies are being conducted into the effectiveness of T4/T3 combination therapy, and using less of a one-size-fits-all approach. As well, more are starting to recognize that a full set of tests have to be done (TSH, Total T4, Free T4, Total T3, Free T3, Reverse T3, Thyroid Antibodies), and even if all of these test come back normal,
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the patient may still respond to treatment for hypothyroidism as normal may not be optimal for that patient. So if you are not getting the answers you want from your physician, what should you do? Find someone who will listen. You are the one who does not feel well. If TSH and T4 tests are not detecting hypothyroidism, other tests to be considered include the Total T3 test, Free T3 test, Reverse T3 test, and Thyroid Antibodies test. The Free T3 is an important test as it indicates if your body is converting T4 into the T3 it needs to help regulate the body. However, it is not routinely done by all physicians. As mentioned earlier, it has long been thought by many in the medical community that there is no such thing as the inability of the body to have difficulty converting T4 into T3. So even if your TSH is normal, advocates of T3 testing state that symptoms of hypothyroid can be confirmed by this test. This is then where the addition of T3 to the medical treatment can be beneficial. Reverse T3 is another test to determine if your body is actually converting T4 into usable T3, or if it is actually converting it from T4 into the unusable form of Reverse T3. Thyroid Antibodies can be
tested for. Their presence can indicate that your body is attacking its own thyroid (called an autoimmune disease). Your TSH blood test (likely the most common test done to test for hypothyroidism) may prove normal, but the presence of thyroid antibodies may be enough for your doctor to consider treating you for your thyroid condition. Another important consideration is that different labs use different values. Therefore, rather than look at lab values, and what the lab considers normal, you want to work with a doctor who works with you to determine what is a normal level for YOU. It is important to realize that normal thyroid lab values have decreased in range over the years, and even if your lab results come back normal, you still could have hypothyroidism. There are some natural ways to support your thyroid, and ensure it functions optimally. You may want to find a doctor that practices functional medicine. A functional medical doctor can assist you with natural ways of treating the root cause of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms with medication. If you or someone you know may have a thyroid condition, call 770-731-9410 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Savedoff today!
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Media: Continued from Page 8 newsworthy. Covering newsworthy events is no reason to blame the media for publicizing bad news. While you may not agree with an article or the outcome of something, it does not help anyone by blaming the media. As the saying goes, don’t shoot the messenger. It solves nothing when the media are blamed for violent acts or outcomes. Most of the time, they are just doing their jobs. Members of the media are trying to report the facts of a story
DECA: Continued from Page 19 to the companies actually using the ideas.” This year’s company recipient is KFCB. Wright said trying to figure out ways to stop littering is their job, but their ideas can get repetitive. “Sometimes you get so caught up into it being your everyday routine that you miss fresh ideas,” Wright said. “When I go and meet with my peers who do what I do all around the nation, it’s hard to find something new no one else has done. Young people think outside the box and that’s what we need to do to take us to the next level.” The ideas impressed the
Council: Continued from Page 4 enough to be a commissioner, so that was wonderful,” Ledbetter said. “I always thought that if a vacancy came available, that I’d want to be on the City Council.” Ledbetter is also a retired teacher from Forsyth Central High School. On May 1, the city received Tressler’s intent letter. “Maintaining the fiscal responsibility of the city of Cumming is paramount, as is the efficient manner in which government business is conducted in the city,” Tressler said. “Economic development, bringing revenue and jobs to
Arrests: Continued from Page 2
Drug arrests
►► John Francis Hefele, 30,
of Carter Drive, Cumming, was arrested April 26 on McFarland Parkway in Cumming for possession of
as they come in, which these days can be very quickly. The story is what is happening. Reporting on it is essential. However, where some members of the media may get lost – and my feeling, where the public begins to see the media as the problem – is when their reporting on an issue or event shifts from telling readers, listeners or viewers what is going on to making a judgement themselves as to what the truth is in a controversial incident. As we have seen, when judgement is passed before all of the facts can be obtained, it can be a recipe for disaster – or a riot. While I know some members of the media may
care more about stirring up controversy or their news outlet’s profits, Appen Media Group is not one of those outlets. We strive to provide great, unbiased content of community events and news. We take pride in our communities and we want you to take pride in your community paper. We acknowledge there have been failures by our media peers, but that just gives us the boost we need to try and be better. We appreciate constructive criticism from our readers, and hope that you will contact us to help us become better reporters or to understand a situation better.
room, including their teacher. “I’m very proud because it was evident the students took the projects very seriously,” Moore said. “I think what they did today would be comparable to what goes on in some boardrooms for advertising agencies when they pitch their ideas.” The audience, which included Sheriff Duane K. Piper, Commission Chairman Pete Amos, Superintendent Jeff Bearden and CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce President James McCoy, narrowed the finalists down to three groups. Some of their ideas included an audibly appealing radio spot, a new logo and website design for KFCB and a real-life mascot to get younger students involved. Those groups will present their projects to the Board of Commissioners on May 21. the citizens of Cumming is equally as important. I will work tirelessly to promote the great qualities of the city of Cumming, a city in which I am proud to call home.” Doug Sorrells was named an interim councilman for the city of Cumming May 1. Sorrels will serve until July 21 to give the county the opportunity to hold a special election to fill retiring Sexton’s unexpired term. Mayor H. Ford Gravitt said one of the criteria for the person appointed is they would not run for the unexpired term. The special election will be held on June 16. Contact Jeff Honea, city clerk, for qualifying information. The qualifying period is May 12-14 and the fee is $180. methamphetamines, possession of marijuana, possession of a schedule III controlled substance, possession of drugrelated items, open container and no insurance. ►► Octavius Jerrod Tolbert, 33, of Lawrenceville was arrested April 29 on Buford Highway in Cumming for possession of marijuana and tag light violation.
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 13, 2015 | 29
Cat of the week:Robin FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Waiting patiently for her turn, Robin has watched roommates come and go out of the cat rooms. Overlooked by many, this sweet and loving Tortie and tabby mix is a gorgeous blend of patterns, with a good temperament to match. Robin’s wish would be to be a loving companion for a special person or persons. She would love to shower attention on her owner, and to be on the receiving end as well. This kitty would probably do best without any competition in her environment, and she would do best as the only princess in her castle. Robin is also one of the kitties in the Name Your Own Price program, but the humane society thinks she is pretty priceless. You can meet her at adoption center at 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5:00 p.m. Fill out an application in Robin or any of the pets at www.forsythpets.org —Kathleen Sturgeon
DEATH NOTICES Wilda Bailey, 87 of Cumming, passed away April 29, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
James Walter Johnson, 72, of Cumming, passed away April 30, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Hilda Phillips Roper, 92, of Cumming, passed away April 30, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Deana Crawford, of Woodstock, passed away May 5, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Home.
Dorothy Marshall, of Milton, passed away May 3, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Shirley Schwartz, of Roswell, passed away May 1, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Kathleen Rose Holubowicz Neal, 69, passed away April 24, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
Barbara Jane Thomas, 58, of Cumming, passed away April 30, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
W. J. Gatewood, 89, of Cumming, passed away May 5, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Harry Geisinger, of Roswell, passed away May 1, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Roy Dwayne Gravitt, 51, of Cumming, passed away May 4, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Christopher Okwoche, of Alpharetta, passed away May 3, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Home.
Dollie D. Quimby, 77, of Cumming, passed away May 5, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Christine Turner, of Milton, passed away May 1, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Eugene Emory Wallis, 83, of Cumming, passed away May 3, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Lan Ying Wang, 78, of Johns Creek, passed away May 6, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
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32 | May 13, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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CHERRY STREET TAPROOM
NOW OPEN!
Last Tuesday Beer Bash Tuesday May 26, at 5pm Local Charity Sponsor, Live Music, Special Beer Release Next Charity: Forsyth Bee Keeper’s Club • Beer: Honey Mustard Saison
25 Cherry Street Taps Craft Cocktails • Tapas Located next to the Brewery to the right of Tanner’s Find Cherry Street at all the local growler shops!
New Hours and Brewery Tours!
Now Open: Tues & Wed 4pm-11pm • Thurs & Fri 4pm-12am • Sat 12pm-12am • Sun 12:30pm-8pm Brewery Tours Every Saturday On The Hour From 1-4pm. Meet In The Taproom
See current beer list www.cherrystreetbrewing.com
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Mon. Family Night, KIDS EAT FREE & BINGO at 6pm Wed. Team TRIVIA at 8pm Thurs. CHERRY STREET BEER SPECIALS & OPEN MIC at 7:30pm Fri. Prime Rib & Steak Specials Sat. Prime Rib & Steak Specials & Brewery Tours from 1-4pm Sun. Brunch 11am-2pm & Live Music
Serving Breakfast
Mon-Fri 7am-11am • Sat & Sun 8am-11am m Biscuits, Omelettes, French Toast, Egg Platters & Bowls, Steak & Eggs, Kids’ breakfast Menu
Breakfast • Lunch Dinner • To-Go • Catering
Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers • Wings e! Chicken Lips • BBQ Ribs • Pulled Pork • Veggies & More!
5810 Bond Street • Cumming, GA
(at the corner of Post Rd. & Majors Rd. in Vickery Village)
770-205-5512
www.cherrystreetbrewing.com Open Mon-Fri 7am • Sat & Sun 8am