Empty Nest
Sponsored section ►►PAGE 20
Meet the candidates 4 running for City Council spot ►►PAGE 4
‘I have a choice’
Survey seeks parental feedback ►►PAGE 14
Losing a legend
Hatcher Hurd on the passing of B.B. King ►►PAGE 8
May 27, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 27
City holds Memorial Day celebration By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com
Veterans bow their heads for the moment of silence.
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
CUMMING, Ga. — American flags filled the Avenue of Flags at the city of Cumming’s Memorial Day ceremony May 22 for the 20th year. The ceremony was held at the city’s Veterans War Memorial, 301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., and the theme was “Twenty Years of Remembrance: The Avenue of Flags, 1995-2015.” Each year during the ceremony, several new American flags are added to the avenue, each in memory of one or more local veterans who served their country in war time or peace. Currently, the Avenue of Flags features some 211 flags. Another 10 were added this year. Additionally, the names of three veterans were added to two flags that are already a part of the avenue. The flags have all been donated by family members of the late veterans, all of whom
earned the honor of a military funeral at the time of their passing in acknowledgement of their service to the United States. “The Memorial Day ceremony is always very moving,” said Alison Smith, lead organizer of the event. “This year’s event should be especially meaningful since we are marking this milestone anniversary of our Avenue of Flags.” The ceremony drew a crowd of about 500 people. “Everyone at the city of Cumming feels events such as this are important because they bring our entire community together to honor those who are probably our most valued members of society – those who have fought to protect all the things that we hold most dear in our nation,” said Crystal Ledford, public information assistant for the city. “This event in particular is very important because we are pay-
See MEMORIAL, Page 22
Sexton impeachment investigation closes By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Following Councilman Rupert Sexton’s retirement, the Cumming City Council brought to an end May 19 its impeachment investigation against him, which began in December 2014. “As a result of the resignation of Rupert Sexton, the impeachment proceedings are now moot,” said City Attorney Dana Miles. “I request a motion terminating those proceedings.” The councilmen voted unanimously to close the impeachment investigation.
Sexton retired from his Post 1 position May 1 after more than 44 years in office. The investigation was not the cause for his retirement, Sexton said. Last December, the council held a special called meeting regardSEXTON ing leaked documents and the possible impeachment of Sexton. The documents revealed Miles and Angela Mullinax, Mayor H. Ford Gravitt’s long-term girlfriend, were receiving health insurance, although they
are not full-time city employees. Some members alleged Sexton was responsible for the leaked documents, which they said illegally released private information about city employees on social media. Sexton denied releasing any documents. When asked why his girlfriend was on the list, Gravitt admitted to putting her on the list. “She does a lot of work for the city of Cumming,” said Gravitt at the time. “I put her on [the list]. I think the city pays $663 a month for her insurance – that’s it. I think we got a good bargain.” Miles, who also does work for the
city but isn’t a full-time employee, was also on the leaked list. He said that other city attorneys in the state receive health insurance as a form of payment, so he believes it’s not a conflict of interest. The city uses the Georgia Municipal Association for insurance coverage, and its policy says in order to receive health insurance benefits, the employee must be full-time. The council then voted to create an investigatory panel, which interviewed Gravitt, Councilman Lewis Ledbetter,
See SEXTON, Page 4
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2 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
Man arrested in fatal stabbing
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Just after midnight on May 17, Forsyth County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a stabbing at a single-wide trailer off Karr Road. Upon arrival, deputies discovered Truitt Cheeley, 48, of Cumming, with several stab wounds and lacerations. Donald Griffin, 57, of Cumming, was arrested on scene and later charged with murder. He remains in custody at the Forsyth County Detention Center.
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.
DUI driver hits curb, car catches fire FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An 18-yearold was driving home to Canon Court May 9 when he reportedly ran into a curb and his car caught fire. When the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office arrived, the man was trying to put the fire out with water. He reportedly told officers he was driving home when he hit a curb and his rear passenger side wheel caught on fire. He said the fire spread quickly to other parts of the car and surrounding shrubs. The officer smelled alcohol on the man’s breath and the man allegedly admitted to drinking 45 minutes prior to the incident. After giving a breath sample, the man’s blood alcohol content was .000, so the officer questioned him about drugs. He was placed under arrest for DUI and underage possession/consumption.
Counterfeit bills passed at yard sale FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man reportedly received counterfeit bills while holding a yard sale May 7-9.
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Correction In our May 20 edition, the front page headline referenced the wrong high school. It should have stated South Forsyth High School, which ranked 15th in the state.
Detectives believe Griffin stabbed Cheeley with a kitchen knife multiple times. Cheeley was pronounced dead later that morning at Northside Forsyth Hospital. GRIFFIN Both males were living in the rented trailer with additional individuals and reportedly had been having a dispute prior to the stabbing.
When the man went into First Financial on Hutchinson Road May 11 to make a payment on his account, he handed the employee a $50 bill. The bill was determined to be counterfeit. The employee then called the sheriff’s office and the regional director of the bank. The man told officers he had held a yard sale that past weekend so he could make his loan payment, and that was where he received the counterfeit bills. He said he only remembered seeing two $50 bills and several $20 bills from the same customer. The bank’s district manager said the man was a repeat customer who makes his payments in a timely manner. He didn’t believe the man intentionally used counterfeit money. The officer collected the counterfeit bills. The man was unsure of the monetary value he lost from the counterfeit bills.
Neighbors’ alleged threats not backed up FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A couple called the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office May 10 after they say their neighbors had thrown a cable and damaged plants on their property on Vickery Woods Court. The husband told officers he heard his neighbors threatening to burn their house down and kill them. They said they felt threatened and did not feel safe. The officers met with the neighbors, who said they had just returned home from a trip and had not been outside or spoken to the couple. They also told officers they had previous issues with the couple and had reported them to the homeowners’ association several times. They said they had security cameras installed on that side of the house and planted trees for a buffer. The cameras are motion censored and did not record anything at the al-
leged time of the event. The officer told them to not have any contact with each other if possible.
Fake IDs land woman in jail ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Michigan woman was arrested May 3 after allegedly being in possession of a half-dozen fake IDs. Employees at the Apple Store in North Point Mall called police after a woman used an ID that appeared tampered with. When police checked it, they found it was fake. The woman whose face and date of birth were on the card was allegedly Breiona Jaliza Edwards, 27, of Lathrup Village, Michigan. A search of her purse after arrest turned up several other cards, all with different names as well as credit cards with those same names. Also found was $1,700 in cash. She was charged with forgery first and second degree, as well as identity fraud.
Girls scare away intruder on porch MILTON, Ga. – Several young girls were able to catch a would-be burglar in the act May 16 as he tried to make his way into their home. According to the family, they were at home in their apartment about 9 p.m. on Deer Creek Place when the family dog began barking at the rear porch. The children opened the back door and found a man climbing over the rail. When he saw the youngsters, he ran away. He was described as having a thick beard, wearing a black hoodie and black pants. He may have had a weapon on him.
See BLOTTER, Page 3
PUBLIC SAFETY
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 ►► Amela Muminhodzic, 28, of
Norcross was arrested May 3 on Highway 369 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Robert Roy Pavao, 37, of Francis Road, Milton, was arrested May 3 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Gabino Balderas-Sanchez, 35, of Sugar Hill was arrested May 3 on Highway 9 in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane, wanted person and no license. ►► Marcelino Cabrera, 22, of Dahlonega was arrested May 8 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI, hit and run and too fast for conditions. ►► John Gordon Wyland, 40, of
Old Northpark Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested May 10 on Highway 9 Milton for DUI.
Drug arrests ►► Christopher Lee Clanton,
36, of Gainesville was arrested May 3 on Lakeside Court in Gainesville for possession of marijuana and possession of a schedule I and II controlled substance. ►► Jonathan Paul Cunningham, 37, of Smyrna was arrested May 8 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jerry James Vichcales, 50, of Surrey Drive, Roswell, was arrested May 2 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana, possession of drugrelated items, hit and run, no passing zone, mirror violation and bald tires. ►► Jeffrey A. Miller, 33, of Deerfield Point, Milton, was arrested May 5 on Webb Road in Milton for possession of marijuana and display of license plates.
Blotter:
Continued from Page 2
Don’t goof off in front of police ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A 19-year-old Johns Creek man was arrested April 12 after allegedly showing off recklessly while driving in front of police. Officers reported seeing the young man at the State Bridge Road Publix parking lot. There were several teenagers in the parking lot near a
Mustang car, and the suspect apparently decided to show off his own Volvo. He sped around the lot and, according to police, nearly hit several people. An officer watched this happen. A search of the young man’s car turned up marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
In the wrong place at the wrong time ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Canton man was arrested for drug possession May 15 after a police officer allegedly caught him in the act of rolling a marijuana cigarette.
Forsyth Herald | May 27, 2015 | 3 Police say they saw Seth Allen Freeman, 20, of Canton, sitting in his car in a parking lot on Westside Parkway. His driver’s side door was open. As the officer approached the vehicle, he reports seeing Freeman allegedly rolling something in his lap. As soon as the officer made his presence known, Freeman allegedly closed his door and attempted to lock it. A search of the car turned up a jar filled with suspected marijuana as well as pipes and a blunt. Freeman was arrested for possession of drug-related paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.
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4 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
Special election advance voting dates set Runs through June 12 By KATHLEN STURGEON w CUMMING, Ga. — Advanced voting for the city of Cumming special election runs May 26 to June 12 at Cumming City Hall. The special election will be held June 16 to fill the Post 1 seat left open when Councilman Rupert Sexton recently retired. Hours for early voting are 8 a.m. to 5 Roger Crow Can you give a brief background on yourself? I moved with my family to CROW Cumming in 1984 to serve as president of the Bank of Cumming, which was a very troubled bank, suffering from mismanagement. Through my leadership and the efforts of a great staff, the bank moved forward and again became a financial pillar of the community. I became a member of First Baptist Church in 1984 where I have served two terms as chairman of the Board of Deacons, served on various committees and led Bible study classes. Along with many other devoted folks, I led the successful effort to build and operate Sawnee Community with private funding and absolutely no tax dollars. At great personal
See CROW, Page 25
p.m. every weekday for any and all registered city of Cumming voters. Whoever is elected on June 16 will fill the Post 1 seat beginning on July 21, when he or she will be sworn into office at the City Council meeting. The new councilmember will then serve through the rest of the term, which ends Dec. 31, 2017. Sexton retired May 1. Currently, Doug Sorrells is serving as interim councilman.
He was sworn in May 19. Mayor H. Ford Gravitt made the recommendation to appoint Sorrells for the interim, noting that Sorrells does not plan to run for the post during the June 16 special election. The Forsyth Herald reached out to the four individuals who have qualified to run in the election, Roger Crow, Linda Ledbetter, Julie Tressler and Chuck Welch, to see what their plans are if they are elected.
Linda Ledbetter
Julie Tressler
Chuck Welch
Can you give a brief background on yourself? I was an elected LEDBETTER county commissioner for Forsyth County District 5 from 2004 to 2008. I decided not to run for re-election in 2008. I have lived in the city since I was born here in 1969 and have always wanted to be on the council. I ran for commission and was lucky enough to be a commissioner, so that was wonderful. I always thought that if a vacancy came available, that I’d want to be on the City Council. I graduated from UGA with a degree in pre-law. I earned my master’s from North Georgia, my EDS from Lincoln Memorial University and Ph.D. from Capella. I am a retired teacher for Forsyth Central High School. I taught ESL at Tyson’s on a grant from Wal-
Can you give a brief background on yourself? I was raised in TRESSLER a small town and came from an entrepreneurial family that was very involved in our local community. I attended Ohio State University and majored in psychology. I’ve been in sales and marketing most of my life except when I took time out to raise my children, both of whom are Forsyth Central graduates. I consider them my greatest accomplishment! I own a small business here in the city of Cumming. I enjoy being actively involved with the many organizations and charities in that are located here in our great city.
Can you give a brief background on yourself? As a proud conWELCH servative, I believe in fiscal discipline, lower taxes, more local control and individual liberties. As a successful small businessman, father and husband, I understand what it takes to maintain a budget. I have worked to transition a start-up bank into a respected financial institution employing nearly 20 individuals. My wife Renee and I reside in Cumming with our son Charlie, age 7. What first intrigued you about being on City Council? Early in life, I learned that hard work and determination are critical to achieving success. I watched my father serve on the Cumming City Council, where he helped shape Cumming into
See LEDBETTER, Page 25
GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds • Page 26
MILTON: Crooked Creek, 425 Majestic Cove. 5/29, 5/30, 8am-4pm Neighborhood sale! ALPHARETTA: Mannings Ridge Subdivision, 1065 Pine Grove Drive 30009. Friday 5/29 and Saturday 5/30, 8am2pm. Huge sale with multiple homes participating within the subdivision. You don’t want to miss this! ALPHARETTA, GOLF WAREHOUSE SALE: 1060 Union Center Drive Suite D 30004. Sunday 5/31 11am-4pm. Apparel, Shoes, Clubs etc Adidas, Ashworth, Nike and much more! ALPHARETTA: Men’s Summer Apparel Sample Sale. 1060 Union Center Drive Suite D 30004. Sunday 5/31 11am4pm. Adidas, Ashworth, and Puma Polos and shorts. Salesman samples as low as $14.99/each CUMMING Stonegate neighborhood sale. Bagley Road off 141. Saturday 5/30, 8am-2pm MILTON: Breanridge Subdivision, 1070 Breanridge Drive. Saturday 5/30, 8am-12pm. Furniture, kids’ and household items. MILTON: Wyndham Farms Subdivision. 14415 Wyndham Farms Drive. Saturday 5/30, 8am-2pm. Ping pong table, piano, twin bed, furniture, fishtank, sofabed.
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What first intrigued you about being on City Council?
See TRESSLER, Page 23
Sexton: Continued from Page 1 Councilman Ralph Perry and Human Resources Director Phil Higgins on Jan. 13. A week later on Jan. 20, a protest was held at City Hall over the fact that Mullinax receives health insurance through the city. This was prior to a special called meeting that same day in which the investigatory panel brought findings to council. The panel decided to ask Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens for legal opinion. On Feb. 4, Olens responded, saying it would be inappropriate for his office to weigh in on the local matter. Miles sent a letter back clarifying his request, but Olens again responded saying he could not answer. At their April City Council meeting, Sexton announced he would be retiring. Lauren Kane with the attor-
See WELCH, Page 23 ney general’s office said there is no investigation of Sexton by their office. However, the Federal Bureau of Investigation did look into whether Mullinax and Miles have been receiving health insurance illegally through the city. City Administrator Gerald Blackburn confirmed the FBI “stopped by” Jan. 7. “They did come by,” said Blackburn. “They spent about 10 minutes talking to me. They asked me about Angie Mullinax and [City Attorney] Dana Miles and about their insurance with the city of Cumming.” Blackburn told the FBI that both were on the city’s insurance coverage plan. FBI agents also spoke with Higgins, the city’s human resources manager. Blackburn has said in the past that Mullinax works parttime for the city, while Sexton said she doesn’t. The FBI was unable to be reached for comment for an update.
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6 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
NEWS
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Greenway Phase 5 to be redesigned By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Expansion of the Big Creek Greenway that runs through Forsyth County will be getting a new design. The Board of Commissioners approved May 21 new routes and additional design costs for Pond & Company to redesign three sections of the Greenway’s fifth phase. The three sections begin at the intersection of Kelly Mill Road and Johnson Road and continue through the Ryland development. The total cost would be $149,075, said Tim Merritt, deputy county manager. “We have made an effort to try to redesign routes with gentle slopes,” Merritt said. “The original has steep slopes and switches back and it will be moved further back from the main road. This will result in a nice, beautiful trail.” Pond & Company Vice President Ronald Osterloh said in a letter to Merritt, “Due to changes in property ownership, Forsyth County now has the opportunity to realign portions of Phase 5 of the Big Creek Trail. This realignment will allow for trail sections with increased aesthetics, the ability to move the trail away from existing roadways
and the ability to provide a more gradually sloping trail.” Because the contract agreement was approved, this will allow the county to move forward with procurement of right of way for the trail, Merritt said. “We have spoken with property own-
ers and most property will be donated,” Merritt said. Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills questioned if this redesign will bind off the next phase to be built. Merritt said they want to go ahead and design this part first.
“If the next section wants to be relocated, we will have a proposed new route and work with Pond & Company to redesign that,” Merritt said. “We aren’t there yet.” It was unanimously approved. Also at the meeting, the commissioners approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Forsyth County Board of Education (BOE) for an intersection upgrade. Ken Jarrard, county attorney, said both the commissioners and BOE planned to update the intersection at North Forsyth High School (NFHS), so the agreement is a win-win for both parties. “The county will undertake improvements at NFHS because we are legally already on the hook,” Jarrard said. “The BOE doesn’t have to do it but there will be a pool of money they won’t have to spend on the project. This agreement will commit them to use the money on beautification for the school.” The cost of the intersection upgrade is estimated around $200,000, Jarrard said, but because it’s a roadway improvement, they won’t know the final cost until it’s completed. The cost of the beautification would be around $250,000. This was approved.
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Leadership Summit
Thanks to all who came out to support our 1st Annual Business Post Leadership Summit
“What a great event you threw last night! Thank you again for the invitation. I had a great time and me some wonderful people.” – Kathy Conner, First Citizens Bank
“Wonderful evening, wonderful event!!!!” – Donna Lawson, CREDO Financial
“We had a great time, it was a great networking event!” – Roshni Patel, Milan Eye Center
“It was a wonderful event and I love events with purpose!” – Dana Banister Coleman, Harry Norman
8 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
OPINION
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A guide to what millennials want Dear communities trying to appeal to millennials: As recent college graduates who moved back to the North Atlanta area, we have noticed the places we call home aren’t too millennial friendly. We both love working and living in the communities we connect with, especially since we grew up here. While there are entertainment, dining and living options in our area which young people are interested in (such as bars and fast Wi-Fi for example) the trend is still that millennials are leaving the suburbs and not coming back. Our age group makes up around 80 million Americans. Many cities are recognizing the huge talent pool among us and the fact that we will soon make up the majority of home buyers, earning higher incomes and paying increasingly greater tax amounts. So these cities are trying to attract more young adults. But a few things need to change before we’ll settle down — and stay through our adult lives.
Entertainment options. Kathleen: Growing up in the suburbs, I became used to stores closing by 9 p.m. Some people call the north metro area a bedroom community, where presumably the main activity after dark is going to sleep. But once I went to college and realized you can order dinner or go to the store after the sun goes down, it was hard to transition back into the early closings. Another side to entertainment is cost. Many millennials are paying off student loan debts or have entry-level jobs. Having access to reasonably priced or free amenities such as parks, the Greenway, fairs and so on is a plus. We have much of this green space already in our community but it’s important to make this a priority in every new major development. Shannon: I have to explain to my friends in Atlanta that my hometown shuts down not long after the sun does. I will happily spend my money on dining and entertainment if it means a night out with friends lasts a little longer. Late hours – especially during weekdays – are not going to be economically viable
KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com
for every business, but there could be a huge untapped market of young people who aren’t ready to go home. I also think there need to be affordable options or things that don’t necessarily require money. This creates a welcoming community that brings people together.
Walkability. Kathleen: Being able to walk to multiple bars, restaurants and other places is a major plus in my book. I love the idea of being able to walk from place to place and not have to worry about driving or finding a parking spot. While it would be cool to live in Atlanta, I also am not a fan of big cities in general, but would love to see some of the walkability of city life come to suburbia. It takes more than upscale restaurants and bars to create a truly attractive nightlife. Shannon: This is something that many of our community leaders have already figured out. We hear “walkability” used as a buzzword very often, but it’s absolutely important especially for millennials. I want to see communities built around people rather than cars.
Better transportation. Kathleen: I live about three miles from where I work, but it takes me around 30 minutes to get to my
SHANNON WEAVER Milton Herald Reporter shannon@appen mediagroup.com
destination. It seems crazy to me that it takes me 10 minutes to drive go one mile. I could probably walk to work faster than driving some days. But then there’s the issue of sidewalks and having to be careful of the traffic. It’s like a never-ending circle. Sidewalks are getting added on a regular basis, which is very good progress, but for at least another decade until a MARTA rail line is added north of the Chattahoochee, accessibility from here throughout Atlanta will remain a problem. Shannon: This is a longstanding, regional issue that would be a completely different column to begin to address but it certainly affects young adults. Everyone hates traffic but I think my generation is particularly averse to long commutes and harm to the environment. Many young people forgo having a vehicle at all. My city friends use rail and buses or ride a bicycle to many of the places they want to go. Here, public transportation is limited and I’m terrified to ride my bike almost everywhere but the Greenway.
Affordable housing. Kathleen: I was once laughed at when I told someone it only cost about $400 a month to live in a four bed/ four bath apartment with three roommates. It is shocking to me how expensive quality housing is. Shannon: As has been said before, many people my age are just starting out their careers and are working with entry-level salaries and (usually) significant student debt. They’re not interested in spending a disproportionate amount of income on the roof over their heads. I think it’s possible to keep property values for homeowners and the nice quality of life we have here and still have affordable options for young adults. But to paraphrase an old meme, the rent is too dang high.
Lucille is gone He was born Riley B. King, but the world knew him as B.B. King, and they knew that because King touched the world. Certainly, he touched me, a South Georgia white boy who grew with just one radio station with good reception. That was AM 1300 on your radio dial. It played country music interspersed with farm reports and more country music – which I hated then (I’ve mellowed since). Then from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., it played my music, rock ‘n’ roll. But teenagers in love and just looking for love don’t go to bed at 10. So as the local radio traffic died, we could pick up other stations, notably WLS in Chicago and a quirky station out of Nashville called Ernie’s Record Mart. Ernie’s was a black show that played soul music. Not only did you hear it played, you could send in your money and buy the record you just heard. I never did, but I listened. I tell you all that so you understand my musical palate wasn’t what you called sophisticated. It wasn’t until I went to college that I became introduced to a world of music including the blues. They had mini-concerts outside the Russell dorm at the University of Georgia, and I could wander out and listen to Muddy Waters, a great Mississippi bluesman in his own right. I heard that and wanted to hear more. For me, the apex was B.B. King. With him, the guitar, his voice and his emotions were all in perfect pitch together. And he could infuse you with emotion. His music was visceral. You felt it. B.B. King did not invent the blues, but he certainly helped define it. Born in Mississippi, he went to Nashville in his 20s
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to begin to hone his craft. Of course, he was famous for his guitar that he named Lucille. In later years, I discovered Lucille’s name was handed down from Gibson to Gibson over the years. I guess he made any guitar he played into his Lucille. Then I found the backstory to the first Lucille. In the 1950s, King was still touring the “Chitlin’ Circuit,” those venues made up of black audiences in often raucous juke joints in the segregated South. One night at such an establishment, a fight broke out in the audience and a kerosene stove was knocked over starting a fire. There was rush to get out, but King went back in the retrieve his $30 guitar. Later, he found out the fight was over a woman named Lucille. He decided to give that name to his guitar and all her successors. As I said, I discovered King and the blues, and have been a fan ever since. I knew I was onto something because people whose music I loved, Eric Clapton and Mick Jagger to name just two, wanted to play with him. He felt the music, he didn’t just play it. And when he played it, I felt it too. We will have his music forever on records, CDs, in the cloud or wherever the cloud takes all recorded music. But for his devoted fans like me, it won’t quite be the same. We know the thrill is gone.
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Officials honored by Georgia Election Officials Association SAVANNAH, Ga. — On Monday, May 4, Barbara Luth, Mandi Smith, Betsy Brown and Kathy Howard were honored for their bravery and dedication at the annual meeting of the Georgia Election Officials Association in Savannah, Ga. On June 6, 2014, a man attempted to drive a van filled with weapons into the Forsyth County Courthouse with the goal of killing as many people as possible. Officer James Rush sustained a gunshot in his successful attempt to stop this crime. Immediately following the shootout in front of the courthouse, the Forsyth County elections employees were told to grab their personal belongings and head home. However, this was the Friday before the deadline to send ballots to military and overseas voters, and the Forsyth County employees knew that they needed to go out. Instead of grabbing their things and going home, they packed up all of the absentee supplies and headed over to their warehouse. There they prepared the absentee ballot packages for all of their military, elderly and disabled voters. They were unable to use the custom mailing machine in their office, because it was now a crime scene. The ballots were then taken down to the post office and individually hand stamped by Forsyth County employees. Every ballot was mailed out before the federal deadline. “These dedicated public servants risked their own safety in order to serve Georgia voters,” said Secretary of State Brian Kemp. “They will forever have my sincere respect and gratitude.”
Barbara Luth, Mandi Smith, Betsy Brown and Kathy Howard were honored by Secretary of State Brian Kemp for their bravery.
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Three boys from Boy Scouts of American Troop 347 recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. From left, they are Landon Foster, Brock Nielson and Charles Mills.
Three local Boy Scouts named Eagle Scouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Charles Mills, Landon Foster and Brock Nielson, members of the Boy Scouts of American Troop 347 recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Milton Ward, charters the troop. Charles Mills built an outdoor shed to hold all of the toys and bikes for the special needs preschoolers at Summit Hill Elementary School. He attended Summit Hill, so when he was thinking about doing his Eagle project, Summit Hill was first on his list as he wanted to do something to benefit the students there. It was an all-day project, with about 40 or 50 people helping to construct an 8’ x 8’ x 8’ shed that stands in front of the school next to the children’s play area. There was some divine intervention that day as well, with rain pelting down strenuously all day the day before, but it stopped raining about an hour before the project and held off until about an hour after it was completed. Lowe’s gave Charles a discount on materials, and
the Summit Hill Foundation provided the funds to do the project. Landon Foster’s Eagle Project benefitted Kelly Mill Elementary, a newly built school his younger two siblings attend. He organized the production of five seating benches placed at two play grounds as well as two five-foot long selfwatering planter boxes filled with fall foliage for the schools green space. Brock Nielson, a senior member of the varsity football program and state championship wrestling team, recently beautified the campus at Cambridge High School by constructing the school’s first outdoor classroom to be used by teachers and students. The outdoor classroom is set alongside the lake on campus and will more than likely be used for the very first time in the spring of 2015. The assignment was part of Brock’s Eagle Scout project, and he was responsible for designing, funding and constructing the project on his own. —Jonathan Copsey
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Forsyth County Schools in need of mentors FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools is in need of caring individuals to mentor elementary, middle and alternative school students. Research shows mentoring improves behavioral, social, emotional and academic outcomes for at-risk youth, while greatly enhancing a young person’s prospects for leading a healthy and productive life. Mentoring takes place between a young person and a more experienced person whom acts at a capacity to provide support that benefits one or more areas of the mentee’s development. Becoming a mentor involves three steps:
The key to mentoring is a supportive relationship between a mentor and mentee. commit to meeting with a mentee for 30 minutes per week during school hours for the school year, choose a convenient time and location to attend a two-hour
training session and complete an application and pass a background check which is provided during training. The key to mentoring is a supportive relationship between a mentor and mentee. The next trainings are June 1, 2 and July 28. Completing training this summer ensures mentors are ready to begin in August. Each school has a waiting list of students who need mentors. For questions, contact Lindsey Simpson, prevention specialist, lssimpson@forsyth.k12.ga.us or (770) 8872461 extension 202347 or visit http:// www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/mentoring. —Kathleen Sturgeon
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South Forsyth Rotary celebrates 25 years By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Rotary clubs across the United States have strived to live by the four-way test: is it the truth, is it fair to all concerned, will it build good will and better friendships and will it be beneficial to all concerned? The South Forsyth Rotary Club has been living and helping its community by following that test for the past 25 years, an accomplishment they celebrated May 20 at the Lanier Tech Conference Center. The original Rotary Club of Forsyth County was formed in June 1975. Buddy Castleberry, a charter and current member of the South Forsyth Rotary, said the original club was growing and the county was starting to grow, so they decided to create a second Rotary in 1990. “I had always heard good things about Rotary,” Castleberry said. “I had my own business in town and was very active with the chamber. I saw the good things about Rotary and felt like it was an organization to hang my hat to.” The club originally had 45
members. It currently has 63. Castleberry said the club has matured and grown in the past 25 years, and he hopes that continues. “This club was based on giving back to our community, and it still does,” Castleberry said. “It’s all about helping people. A lot of people don’t realize how many families or people we’ve helped over the years. If we feel like in business we’ve been blessed, then we feel like we should give back.” Penny Penn, the cur rent president, said the club has been very active this year and has had a surge of membership in the past few years. “The members may come and go, but it’s still the same type of people,” Penn said. “We’re still doing good work and helping the community.” Current and former members shared stories at the
KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
Past presidents of the South Forsyth Rotary Club were in attendance at the 25th anniversary celebration. celebration and another charter member, Jannie Barrett, shared her favorite times with the club. One of her favorite memories is when the club helped out a regional director in a different state while his
wife was going through chemotherapy. Barrett is still a member of South Forsyth Rotary. She said she had been involved with community events her whole life, so joining the club made
sense. “We do so many good things for our community,” Barrett said. “It’s not just what we do, it’s how we help each other. We feel like a family. To me, that’s one of the greatest joys.”
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FCS seeks feedback on underage drinking ‘I have a choice’ survey open until May 29 By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com
for their project. One of the goals is to reduce the early onset of alcohol use among 9- to 20-year-olds in the county. “We selected that tagline because it encompasses all kinds of drugs, whether alcohol or other substance,” Simpson said. “We want students and parents to pause and reflect about what they’re doing today and how it affects their future tomorrow. We want everyone to know you have a choice when you’re making decisions.” FCS does this survey to gather perceptions of the community to see how big the underage drinking problem is, Simpson said. “It’s important because we
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The average age at which Forsyth County residents begin using alcohol is 13 years old. That is one of the reasons why Forsyth County Schools (FCS) is currently seeking feedback through May 29 from parents and guardians in a survey titled, “I have a choice.” In 2011, the school system was selected as one of 41 statewide providers to participate in Georgia’s Alcohol Prevention Project, said Lindsey Simpson, prevention specialist with FCS. The project is a state grant and “I have a choice” is the tagline
need to know what parents think is going on,” Simpson said. “Different sectors of the community see different things. As a school system, we may see one problem, but another entity may see it as a different issue. Gathering actual perceptions from parents helps us adjust our prevention efforts.” The survey asks a lot of perception questions, such as, “How large of a problem do you think underage drinking is?” This way, parents are being asked what they think, rather than what the problem actually is. “We target parents with our campaign because parents
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have the most influence on a ation, Simpson said. In order child’s life,” Simpson said. “A to test for evaluation, FCS lot of time, parents may think has implemented a positive their child’s not listening or community norms campaign that they’re just their parent. through billboards and other But research shows they have means. the most influence. We try to The survey will gather the give parents the resources and results and determine how educational masuccessful the terials they need campaign was. so they feel em“Once the powered to talk to survey closes May their child about 29, we have an the harmful outside evaluator effects of underwho will analyze age drinking and the data and send what it can do to it back,” Simpson their brain and said. “We will use future.” that information This is the to tweak our mesecond year FCS dia campaign for has done the next year.” survey, Simpson Accessibilsaid. Last year, ity and availabilthey gathered ity of alcohol is a baseline data and problem they’re this year, they’re trying to combat, hoping to gather Simpson said. more respon“By using a dents. There were combination of 681 participants individual and last year, and environmentalSimpson said level strategies, she hopes it gets we hope to edudoubled. cate students and “The survey parents about the measures parharmful effects of ents’ and guardalcohol use and ians’ perceptions empower parents about underage and guardians drinking within to talk with their Forsyth County,” students and Simpson said. other parents LINDSEY SIMPSON “Instead of alabout the isPrevention specialist with Forsyth sue,” Simpson ways using data County Schools sources like the said. “Last year’s student health survey revealed survey, we decid58.6 percent of ed to do one that’s community respondents agree underage focused so we can gain insight drinking is a problem in our on what our community sees community.” as a problem in regards to To take the survey, visit underage drinking.” https://www.surveymonkey. Part of the Alcohol Prevencom/s/ForsythCommunitySurtion Project process is evaluvey2015.
We want students and parents to pause and reflect about what they’re doing today and how it affects their future tomorrow. We want everyone to know you have a choice when you’re making decisions.”
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Lanier: Life blood to north metro economy By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – Memorial Day launched the summer season for Lake Lanier. April’s heavy rains have buoyed the business climate around the lake. After a drier than average first quarter, the area received 7.79 inches of rainfall in April, almost twice the average and more than any April in 20 years. That’s important to the hundreds of businesses and thousands of homeowners in south Forsyth and Hall counties who depend on the lake for their livelihood. “It’s an economic engine unto itself in the North Georgia region,” said Joanna Cloud, executive director of the Lake Lanier Association, a 3,000-member organization dedicated to maintaining the quality of life in and around the lake. “It has such farreaching impact in terms of the draw of people who come here to recreate and reside.” Lake Lanier is one of the most visited lakes within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers system, drawing some 7.5 million people a year. The highest months of visitation are from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The wet early spring has put less strain on the state’s waterways and allowed the Corps to maintain Lake Lanier at optimum levels, according to Corps spokeswoman Lisa Parker. Those lake levels can mean
the difference between prosperity and strife to the surrounding population. Lanier makes up more than 5 percent of metro Atlanta’s $3.5 billion tourism economy. A 2010 study commissioned by the 1071 Coalition found that visitation always declines when the lake level is unusually low. During the drought of 2008, when lake elevations averaged 1,055.8 feet (15.2 feet below full pool) during the entire boating season, the number of visitors fell by 880,000 from the previous year. But tourism is only part of the economic equation. The real estate market also relies heavily on a healthy Lake Lanier. The population of the five counties surrounding the lake, about 1.29 million, grew by more than 40 percent between 2000 and 2010, twice as fast as the combined downstream counties south of Buford Dam. That population swell hasn’t diminished. The study further revealed that Lake Lanier provides a “premium” of $5.3 to $6.4 billion in additional value to nearly 15,500 lakefront homes, generating an additional $52 to $68 million in county and school property tax revenues annually. That doesn’t include taxes paid on the more than 26,000 boats owned by residents of the five lake counties. “Look at the growth of Forsyth County over the last 10-15 years, and the lake has been a big part of that,” Cloud
said. “The impact of that is far more than just somebody buying gas and sodas at the local marina. It affects all the local businesses and all the local property values.” When the lake level dropped to 50-year lows in 2008, the fallout was massive.
Economists with the Bleakly Advisory Group estimated the drought brought about an estimated $4.7 million reduction in earnings among commercial marinas and a $35 million drop in purchases of new and used boats in the five lake counties. Sales of lake-
front properties were down 54 percent. “Even though that was several years ago, that still resonates tremendously with the local community,” Cloud said. “I think now everybody’s so doggone happy that we’re not dealing with low water levels.”
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Get new business or go out of business Wealthy class often different than portrayed
Are you always looking for ways to secure new business? Do your plans include strategies and tactics to open up new markets and attract more customers? While repeat business from current customers is important, getting new business is critical to staying in business long-term. Warren Buffet, a wellknown business magnate and savvy investor, once said that “any business that is not bringing in new business is going out of business.” This is especially true with small businesses that often rest on their laurels and are comfortable with their current client base. As a small business owner,
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it is an important component of your overall strategy to identify, prioritize and select the best ways to attract new business. This could include entering different markets, offering new products or services or diversifying your portfolio of offerings to appeal to more buyers. According to a Bloomberg
article, 80 percent of small businesses fail because they don’t understand their customers’ needs, and subsequently aren’t providing products or services that attract new business. Furthermore, they also don’t provide a point of differentiation, making it even tougher to add new business. Making sure that your value proposition is clear, concise, compelling and accurate will help create demand for your products and services. Using the right marketing channels is also important. As a small business owner, getting new business is critical to not going out of business.
Georgia’s good job numbers belie drop in buying power By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – Georgia’s job numbers improved in 2014, but those jobs aren’t producing the consumer purchasing power they once did, according to Rajeev Dhawan of the Economic Forecasting Center at
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Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business. In his quarterly economic forecast released this month, DhaDHAWAN wan said there are signs high-paying jobs will lift local economies down the road. “Georgia’s gain of 145,000 jobs in calendar year 2014 is impressive,” Dhawan said. “However, those 145,000 jobs being created aren’t giving the economy nearly as big of a bang for its buck as it did back in the 1990s when slightly fewer jobs, but with greater purchasing power, were created.” Local corporate firms have made announcements that will enhance future purchasing power, he said, including 900 jobs at Kaiser Permanente and Comcast’s addition of 1,000 jobs at their new facility going in near the new Braves stadium. He said he also expects strong results from the information and technology sector due to a string of recent job announcements from Amazon Web Services, PureCars, Mo-
binteg, Cisco, Amtrak, Southern Company and Applied Systems. “This is good news to the future purchasing power potential because these jobs, after all, are high-paying,” Dhawan said. On the local front, Dhawan also noted: Georgia’s job creation slowed to 1.8 percent for the first quarter of 2015. Expect a job growth rate of 2.9 percent in 2015, which moderates to 2.3 percent in 2016 and 2.2 percent in 2017. Nominal personal income will increase 4.7 percent in 2015, and then 5.2 percent in 2016 and 5.8 percent in 2017. Strong employment growth continued in Atlanta, growing by 2.9 percent in the first quarter of 2015. Expect a job growth rate of 3.4 percent in 2015, a strong 2.7 percent in 2016 and 2.6 percent in 2017. Atlanta’s housing permits increased 3.5 percent over the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period in 2014. For 2015, permitting activity will increase 6.4 percent. Permit activity will grow 11.5 percent in 2016 as multifamily permits return to positive growth and 6.1 percent in 2017.
Georgia’s gain of 145,000 jobs in calendar year 2014 is impressive... However, those 145,000 jobs being created aren’t giving the economy nearly as big of a bang for its buck...” RAJEEV DHAWAN Economic Forecasting Center
Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” We’ve spoken recently about the affluent class, how America now has more millionaires and billionaires than ever. It’s wrong to lump the 1 percent into a monolithic group of greedy, tax avoiding, selfish capitalists. They are different from what you may think. Most of the 1.4 million taxpayers that make up the top 1 percent gained their wealth through their own efforts, rather than by inheritance. This group consists of a large number of doctors, lawyers, engineers and smalltime entrepreneurs, many of whom are working hard to create jobs. It’s true that today’s wealthy are richer than in the past, and their share of the nation’s income has grown. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the 1 percent club earned about one-tenth of the nation’s income. By 2008, it was 23.5 percent, the second highest in history after 1929. Cost of admission to the 1 percent club varies from year to year, but when measured by annual income, it typically ranges from $800,000 to $1.4 million. Net worth estimates are less reliable and seldom used as a benchmark but by one calculation, a household needs $8.4 million to qualify. This is also a volatile group by one estimate. The millionaire club had shrunk by 85 percent by the time F.D.R. started pressuring them. The membership rolls of the 1 percent club are always in flux. According to the Federal Reserve, between 1996 and 2005, some 57 percent of the 1 percent fell out of the club. The millionaire’s club is not the only group posting gains in numbers in the United States. Other segments of the market have grown, notably the Hispanic consumer market and government entities. Hispanic – The Hispanic consumer market in the United States is larger than the entire economies of all but 13 countries in the world, according to the annual UGA
FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency
Most of the 1.4 million taxpayers that make up the top 1 percent gained their wealth through their own efforts, rather than by inheritance. This group consists of a large number of doctors, lawyers, engineers and small-time entrepreneurs, many of whom are working hard to create jobs. Selig Center Multicultural Economic Study. In 2012, they estimated it to be a $1.2 trillion market. Government – Across the country, there are 38,266 special purpose districts, or government units distinct from cities, counties and schools, each with its own ability to raise money. Since Ronald Reagan declared in his 1981 inaugural address that government “is not the solution to our problem – government is the problem,” their numbers have jumped 32 percent
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Chamber program features dressing for success
New hires named at landscape firm ROSWELL, Ga. – Ed Castro Landscape has named Dave Lofstrom as the new director of maintenance, with a specific focus toward improved communication, execution and strengthening long-term relationships with clients. Jaime Latorre has been named commercial project manager. Latorre has several years of experiLATORRE ence working with general contractors in project management roles. He has been involved with public works with agencies such as the Georgia Department of Transportation along with several counties and municipalities in the state.
Andrew Matthieson named to 'Top Advisor Under 40' list ATLANTA — Andrew Matthieson, of Ashford Advisors, has been named a “Top Advisor Under 40” by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors-Atlanta Chapter (NAIFA-Atlanta). This award is given to advisors based on business production, business revenue, experience and community involvement. “My goal for my clients is to bring clarity and confidence to their financial lives through financial organization, education and implementation of strategies that align with their goals and values,” Matthieson said. “My role in my clients’ lives is to act as the comprehensive financial coach for them, giving advice based on their complete financial picture, not just investing or insurance.” In the industry since 2013, Matthieson is involved with his community and volunteers his time as a coach for the Johns Creek Junior Gladiators youth football team and a board member of the North Fulton Alliance of Young Professionals.
Forsyth Herald | May 27, 2015 | 17
IFG names DeCouto to head property unit ALPHARETTA, Ga. – IFG Companies has named Sophia J. DeCouto vice president and head of the primary property unit within its Brokerage Property Division. DeCouto has experience in property underwriting spanning primary property, shared and layered property and national accounts property. Prior to joining IFG, DeCouto was vice president – property with Axis Insurance Company. Before that, she served in increasingly senior property underwriting positions over almost a decade with Allied World Assurance Company. She began her career in insurance as a brokerage assistant with Freisenbruch-Meyer Insurance Services Limited in Bermuda. DeCouto holds a bachelor of business administration degree from Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Ron Cohen, of R. Charles, Ltd., a provider of finely custom tailored men’s clothing, will be speaking on dressing for success at the June 9 Lunch and Learn, sponsored by the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce. Cohen has been dressing some of Atlanta’s top professionals for the past 15 years. He has worked with CNN, Fox, professional athletes and some of the top attorneys in the area. He will discuss how dress affects you, how it affects others, and he will offer some tips on how to improve the way you dress for business and pleasure as well as creating a personal image. The program is at 1 p.m. at 11130 State Bridge Road, Suite B-106. Fee for members is $10, nonmembers $20.
RESTAURANTS »
McAlister’s signs 3 development agreements ALPHARETTA, Ga.— McAlister’s Deli has signed three development agreements with new and existing franchisees to open restaurants in Southern Georgia and North, Central and Southwest Florida. Existing franchisee DMAC 81 based in Summerville, S.C., plans to open several new restaurants between southern Georgia and North Florida. McAlister’s also signed development agreements with two new franchise groups to open restaurants on the west coast of Florida between Naples and Sarasota, as well as in Orlando. “With these three groups, we have the opportunity to bring McAlister’s to untouched markets in Florida like Sarasota, Naples and Orlando, as well as expanding into southern Georgia,” said Jeff Sturgis, McAlister’s Vice President of Franchise Development. “We couldn’t be happier to continue our development in the south with three stellar franchisee groups.”
NewBusinessSpotlights
Atlanta Veterinary Specialists Wilbur and Rudy’s Farmtable now open in Johns Creek Market open in Milton Business: Wilbur and Rudy’s Farmtable Market Opened: May 2015 Owners: Ryan and Beth Bowersox Address: 850 Hickory Flat Road, Milton What: Organic coffee shop and cafe, farmers market with organic produce, retail grocery, antiques, gifts and more. Hours: Coffee café – 5:30 a.m. to 7:30
p.m., Monday through Thursday; 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Market – 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Phone: 877-201-2601 Website: www.farmtablemarket.com
Business: Atlanta Veterinary Specialists Opened: March 2015 Owner: Dr. Mary P. Schick, DVM, DACVD Address: 7350 McGinnis Ferry Road, Johns Creek What: AVS provides advanced emergency and specialty care. We provide after-hours emergency care, from 4 p.m. to 9 a.m. every day and 24 hours a day on Saturday and Sunday. Our hospital is equipped with an advanced
CT scanner, digital radiography, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, digital in-house laboratory and state-of-the art surgical suites, which allows us to treat many types of emergency and specialty conditions. Hours: The emergency department is open from 4 p.m. to 9 a.m. every day and 24 hours a day on weekends. Our specialty department is open 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon. through Thur. Phone: 770-407-3000 Website: www.atlvet.com
CALENDAR
EDITOR’S PICKS
18 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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BONAVENTURE QUARTET
Classic standards, western swing, Django Reinhart style gypsy jazz, and original compositions at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Village, 9770 Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek. Saturday, May 30. Contact Celia McDermott at 770-653-1358 for more info.
WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS
HEART AND SOLE
This inaugural event benefiting the Lionheart School, is a scenic route through Avalon and near historic downtown Alpharetta followed by family friendly postrace party on the Plaza. Saturday, May 30. Visit thelionheartschool.com for more info.
FORE THE LOVE OF A HORSE
Golf Classic to benefit For the Love of a Horse, at White Columns Country and Golf Club, 300 Clubhouse Drive in Milton. Monday, June 1 at 10 a.m. Visit fortheloveofahorse.org for more info.
Networking breakfast featuring programs dedicated to issues facing women in business at Panera Bread Bakery Café, 500 Lakeland Plaza in Cumming. Sponsored by the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce. Tuesday, June 2, 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Call 770-8876461for more info.
EVENTS:
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.
6230 Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek Register: 770-497-1290; jared@standardclub.org Sponsorships: 770-880-1711; Warren.Tobin@gmail.com Donations: $175 per player of $700 per foursome
MUSIC: ROSWELL PUPPET SERIES
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS
What: End the week with good food, family and friends. Live music, picnic tables and playgrounds for children will be available for you and your family to kick off the weekend. Where: Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road in Roswell When: Friday, May 29 Hours: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call: 770-594-6406
What: A Peter and the Wolf and the Frog Prince doubleheader kick off Roswell’s puppet series. These classic stories retold with marionettes will entertain the whole family. When: Monday, June 1 through Saturday, June 6 at 10 a.m. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street. Cost: $5 individual tickets, $30 summer pass. Web: roswellpuppets.com
B 40’S/USO DANCE
What: Forsyth County Senior Services is reviving a bygone era with an evening of dancing and fun at the “Company B 40s/USO Dance” for adults ages 40+. Where: Sexton Hall Enrichment Center, 2115 Chloe Road in Cumming When: Saturday, May 30 Hours: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
What: John Lennon’s art celebrates human love and communication. His work is on display and available for acquisition. Where: Ann Jackson Gallery, 932 Canton Street in Roswell When: Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31 Hours: Friday and Saturday 12 to 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Web: annjacksongallery.com
GIBBS GARDEN
What: Free lecture on Perennials and Annuals for Summer Color by horticulturist, television personality and author Erica Glasener. Where: Gibbs Garden, 1987 Gibbs Drive in Ball Ground When: Thursday, June 4 at 11 a.m. Web: gibbsgardens.com
CHUCK WAGON GANG
CROSS COUNTRY STAMPEDE
BIG HERO 6
ARTWORKS OF JOHN LENNON
When: Saturday, May 30 at 7 a.m. Where: St. Andrew Catholic Church, 675 Riverside Road in Roswell Web: riverrunforhope.com
What: Big Hero 6 tells the story of a young robotics prodigy named Hiro Hamada who forms a superhero team to combat a masked villain. When: Friday, May 29 Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway in Alpharetta Hours: Gates, parking and concessions open at 7:15pm. Movie starts at 8:45pm. Cost: Free Info: Face-painters will be onsite. Event is rain or shine.
SPORTS: RIVER RUN FOR HOPE
What: Run along the scenic Chattahoochee River on a 5K, 10K or 1 mile course. Postrace party will feature food, children’s activities, music and prizes.
What: Obstacle trail run on a one lap course. All proceeds from the 2015 race will go to Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church & to The American Diabetes Association. Where: Watson Family Farm in Cumming. When: Saturday, May 30 at 8:30 a.m. Web: crosscountrystampede. com Info: Self timed. Ages 5 and up are welcome.
JOHNS CREEK VETERANS ASSOCIATION GOLF TOURNEY
What: Shamble format tournament to benefit the JCVA Memorial Walk. When: 10 a.m. Monday, June 1 Where: The Standard Club,
What: Grassroots gospel music Where: Cumming Playhouse When: Saturday, May 30 Hours: 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Cost: $20. $15 for veterans, seniors, 18 and under, groups 25 or more. Web: playhousecumming.com
KHARI CABRAL-SIMMONS WITH CHANTAE CANN
What: Eclectic soul music from Khari Simmons with Chantae Cann. Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta When: Friday, May 29 Cost: $22 Web: thevelvetnote.com
Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
May 27, 2015 19
Riverside Military Academy, Gainsville Ga. For over 108 years Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. We offer a traditional, American-style education where personal values, honor, and love of country still matter. Riverside is not owned or operated by any particular religious denomination, but supports the spiritual and educational goals of all families. Upon graduation, a Riverside cadet has experienced the challenges of the military model of education and is com-
pletely prepared for the rigors of college. He is poised, polite, and confident in any social environment. Riverside cadets stand tall, offer a firm handshake, respect authority, and display a level of confidence that parents may not have observed previously. Cadets of Riverside Military Academy attend grades 7 through 12 and benefit from a small class size and a 15:1 student teacher ratio. Our entire educational program centers around the way young men learn best.
Riverside’s College Center assists cadets in preparing for and placing their college applications each year. The graduating class 2014 consisted of 91 cadets who were admitted to over 105 universities across the world and earned over $4.2 million in collegiate scholarships not including HOPE scholarship. Two graduating seniors were appointed to the U.S. Military Academy –West Point and the United States Air Force Academy, an educational value of
over $450,000 each. Riverside Military Academy holds dual accreditation in SACS and SAIS. Our comprehensive program of rigorous academics, athletics and leadership development sets the stage for a lifetime of success. Riverside Military Academy is located on 206 acres on the shores of Lake Lanier in Gainesville, GA. For more information please visit our web site at www.riversidemilitary.com or contact our admissions office at 770-538-2938.
For over 108 years Riverside Military Academy has remained one of the nation’s preeminent college preparatory academies educating young men in grades 7-12. Our mission is to prepare ethical young men of character for success in college and in life through the provision of a rigorous academic program, leadership opportunities, competitive athletics, extensive co-curricular activities, and the structure anddiscipline inherent in a military college preparatory school environment. The 2014-15 Corps of Cadets consists of over 500 cadets from 26 nations. Please call today to schedule your personal tour of our beautiful 206-acre campus.
Friday/Sunday shuttle service to GA 400 Year-round enrollment 15:1 cadet/teacher ratio AP/Honors Programs
14 varsity sports Performing and visual arts programs SACS/SAIS Accredited 4 Week summer school program
Sponsored Section
Forsyth Herald | May 27, 2015
ASK PAM:
The expert in senior care since 2006 Beat the Heat this summer with a Senior Helpers Caregiver! The heat of summer is here and it is an important time to review some vital safety tips for seniors. Seniors are more prone to the effects HODGSON of heat and at greater risk for dehydration. According to the CDC, elderly people are more at risk because: Elderly people do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature. Seniors are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat. They are more likely to take prescription medicines that impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration. Senior Helpers is here to help keep your loved one safe and Beat the Heat this summer! Call Senior Helpers today for more Summertime Tips and to set-up additional care for your elderly loved one, 770-442-2154. Be aware of signs of dehydration,
heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Call Senior Helpers for more information, tips and warning signs. Summertime tips to Beat the Heat; 1. Try to plan activities that require going outside during non-peak hours when it might be a little cooler. 2. Move exercise indoors. Consider exercising at a gym, walking on a treadmill, or “mall walking” instead of outdoor walks or activities. 3. Swimming and water aerobics are good options as well. 4. Drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic, caffeine-free as these ingredients have a diuretic effect). 5. Check your loved one’s air conditioning system, do a maintenance review. If electricity goes out or your loved one does not have air conditioning, consider alternative arrangements when heat is at dangerous levels. 6. Call Senior Helpers for more tips 770-442-2154. Senior Helpers, from our family to yours. Family Owned and Managed since 2006.
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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
Trouble Hearing? • Alzheimer and Dementia Care • Transportation and Errands • Bathing, Dressing and Light Housekeeping • Fall Risk Care
• Caregivers Available from 1 hr./day to 24/7 and Live-in • Assisted Living Placement Assistance • Custom and Flexible Schedules
Hear More. Anywhere. Anytime. Hearing begins with YOU See how easy it is to transform your quality of life! Schedule an appointment today and let us empower you with a hearing solution as individual as you are. Dr. Deborah Woodward Doctor of Audiology
Senior Helpers: Matt Fredenberg, Elizabeth Jackson, Pam Hodgson, Hutch Hodgson
770.442.2154 Your Local Senior Care Expert.
770-814-1260
4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B • Johns Creek, GA 30024 www.YourHearingLink.com
See APP, Page 21
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EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section
May 27, 2015 21
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 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®, Juve-
App: Continued from Page 20 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 audiolo-
BEFORE
derm® XC, Radiesse®, Belotero®, and Restylane®. Dr. Sajja will perform a detailed evaluation and provide DR. SAJJA 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 678-381-2020 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on Dr. Sajja and to schedule your consultation today. gist 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 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
AFTER
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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For your convenience Dr. Sajja will see patients on Saturdays beginning August 1st! 6300 Hospital Pkwy, Ste 325 | Johns Creek 970 Sanders Rd, Ste 100 | Cumming 201 Kimberly Way, Ste 106 | Canton 1995 Mall of Georgia Blvd, Ste A | Buford 3775 Roswell Rd, Ste 150 | Marietta / East Cobb (coming July 2015)
Learn more: milaneyecenter.com | Call for a consultation: 470-326-0330
22 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
Memorial: Continued from Page 1
ing tribute to those individuals who are no longer with us.” Through this event, the city hopes its veterans can see how much they are appreciated, not only by just the city of Cumming, but by the entire community, Ledford said. “We also hope that the family members of the veterans who are commemorated through the Avenue of Flags gain a sense of peace in knowing that their family member is honored and remembered every time those American flags fly over our Veterans War Memorial,” Ledford said. In addition to the Avenue of Flags dedication, this year’s ceremony featured comments from master of ceremonies John Arant, former American Legion North Georgia 9th District and Cumming Post 307
COMMUNITY
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commander, and from keynote speaker Lt. Col. Theodore R. Scott III, deputy commander of the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade of the Georgia Army National Guard. Mayor H. Ford Gravitt also provided a welcome during the event, and an invocation was given by Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirkle of the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade. Pirkle’s most recent deployment was to Afghanistan from February 2013 to January 2014. At home in Fitzgerald, Georgia, Pirkle also serves as the minister to students and discipleship at his local church. Other participants in this year’s Memorial Day ceremony included the Forsyth County Fire Department Honor Guard, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department, Georgia Safety Pipe and Drums, North Georgia Barbershop Singers, musician Miles Bonaker and Nancy Kay Duncan of Georgia Doves.
PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
The Forsyth County Fire Department Honor Guard escorted families during the Avenue of Flags dedication.
Mayor H. Ford Gravitt, left, stands by CPT Jon Pirtle as he gives the introduction.
The National Anthem was sung by the North Georgia Barbershop Singers.
The presentation of colors was by the Forsyth County Fire Department Honor Guard.
John Arant is the Former American Legion N. Ga. 9th District and Cumming Post 307 Commander. He gave the introduction of master of ceremonies.
The keynote speaker was LTC Theodore R. Scott III.
Families unveiled a flag representing the loved ones they lost in combat.
Tressler: Continued from Page 4 I like the small-town feel with big city convenience that we have here in Cumming. It’s a great place to raise kids and we’ve had a wonderful experience doing so in the Central cluster of schools. The residents of the city of Cumming are very genuine and caring. I understand how important our county seat is to the county as a whole. It’s more important than ever to elect leaders who understand the challenges we face and are willing to preserve the city’s rich heritage for the future. I believe I have a unique view on our city, having had my children in school here as well as being a small business owner. Both areas are important to our city. What do you hope to accomplish if elected to City Council? Being a conservative, I will be fiscally responsible to the citizens of Forsyth. While many counties and municipalities are facing mounting debt, the city of Cumming remains financially strong and debt-free. That’s an amazing accomplishment in this day and age, and I will ensure we continue to remain debt free. There are so many things to be proud of in our city and many more things we can do as we look toward the future. I hear many residents say
Welch: Continued from Page 4 one of the nation’s premier destinations in which to live, work, play and retire. His service to others gives me strength and inspiration to give back to a community that has given my family so much. What do you hope to accomplish if elected to City Council? Now, more than ever, we must work to protect Cumming’s legacy for the next generation. If elected, I will work aggressively to continue to enhance our quality of life, support local businesses and safeguard our heritage. With unparalleled amenities, a thriving health care mar-
COMMUNITY
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 27, 2015 | 23
they would like to see more restaurants and shops in the square. As a small businessperson myself, working toward attracting those types of businesses will continue to make Cumming a place our residents will enjoy. Why do you want to represent the city of Cumming? I understand the smalltown way of life and I chose to make this my home because of it. I’m very proud of our city, and I would be very honored and proud to represent its citizens as we grow together and move toward the future. The residents of Cumming need an advocate in City Hall, and that is exactly what I plan to be. Why should people vote for you? People who know me know that I walk the talk. I’m involved in the community on various levels and I really care what happens here. I’m willing to roll up my sleeves and go to work on projects that benefit our community. I’m also approachable and work well with others. My cellphone number (678-3588084) is available to anyone who wishes to call me with any questions or concerns. Running for office was never a goal of mine. It’s just the end result of a long history of trying to make our community a better place for all of us to enjoy! I humbly ask for your vote on June 16. ket, top-tier schools and low taxes, Cumming is positioned for greatness. If elected, I hope to take our community to the next level. Why do you want to represent the city of Cumming? As a lifelong resident of Cumming, I have watched our community evolve from a small rural town into one of the nation’s premier destinations to live, work, play and retire. I want to represent the city of Cumming because to me, this isn’t about a title – it’s about protecting our community. Why should people vote for you? I will fight to safeguard our heritage while providing the leadership to guide our community to an even greater level of success.
With Gov. Nathan Deal is, from the right, Frank Berry, commissioner of DBHD- Dept. of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disablities, Sally Vander Straeten, suicide prevention coordinator, Sherry Unwala, board member of SPAN-Ga, Carol Dooley, board member of SPAN-Ga, Sheri McGuinness, President of SPAN-Ga, behind the Governor on the right, is Senator Renee Unterman, to the left of the Governor is Representative Katie Dempsey, Clark Flatt, president of the Jason Flatt Foundation, Michelle Ray, senior VP/CEO of the Jason Flatt Foundation and in the back row is Jamie Woodard of the Trevor Project.
Gov. signs bill on suicide prevention ATLANTA — May 5 was a victory for suicide prevention in Georgia after Governor Nathan Deal signed the House Bill 198 into law. It’s the Jason Flatt Act of Georgia. The following goes into effect as of July 1: the Department of Education must require all teachers, counselors and other certified school personnel to receive annual training in suicide awareness and prevention; they must work with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and the Suicide
Prevention Program to develop a list of approved training materials; every local school system must adopt a policy on student suicide prevention, intervention and post-vention, developed by school and community stakeholders and mental health professionals and the Department of Education must establish a model suicide prevention policy for use by local school systems. This would not have been possible without Clark Flatt, who in memory of his son, Jason, founded the Jason
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Foundation and has worked with Jamie Woodard of the Trevor Project to write this bill. They have worked to bring this law into effect in 15 states. Representative Katie Dempsey and Senator Renee Unterman sponsored this bill in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively. Sheri McGuinness, Sherry Unwala and Carol Dooley represented Suicide Prevention Action Network of Georgia (SPAN-GA.). For more information, visit www.span-ga.org.
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24 | May 27, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
SPORTS
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Lambert golf sweeps state championships Girls’ team three-peats By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com
Sarah DiFazio selected for Ga. National LAX Team FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Sarah DiFazio has been selected to play on the Georgia National Lacrosse Team. She is a sophomore at Pinecrest, plays for the Pinecrest Varsity team and XTEAM in the off season. The National Tournament, held annually in May with its origins dating back to the early 1930s, was held at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa., May 23-24. The Schoolgirls Division
is the largest segment of the National Tournament, with nearly 60 teams competing annually in this division. As such, the event has been become one of the marquee college recruiting events in the country. Players must try out for regional teams in order to participate and the majority of players are rising seniors or younger. Georgia will be taking two teams with girls from Georgia and Alabama. —Kathleen Sturgeon
CUMMING, Ga. – Lambert High juniors Lauren Lightfritz and Kayley Marschke set out to win four girls’ golf state championships. They will have three out of the way when they enter their senior season next year. The Lambert girls’ golf team captured their third straight state championship in class AAAAAA on May 18. Not to be outdone, the boys’ team captured their first state championship on the same day. The Lambert sweep is the first time a team has captured both the boys’ and girls’ class AAAAAA titles in the same year. The girls’ team competed at Springhill Country Club in Tifton, Georgia, where Lightfritz, Marschke and Christine McDonnell combined for a score of 229, seven fewer strokes than second place finishing Colquitt County. This marks the third straight year the girls’ team has captured the state title in class AAAAAA. Since the Lambert girls’ team was created in 2009, the Longhorns have won six straight region titles and have only finished outside the top two in the state once. Girls’ coach Joel Posey said that every championship is special, however, “This one is
Lambert High’s boys’ golf team captured their first state championship at Sunset Country Club in Moultrie, Georgia. by far the most exciting.” “Every year it gets harder and harder to win the [state championship], but these girls are so dedicated and driven,” Posey said. Posey is already looking forward to next year. “Next season should be our banner year,” he said. “Everyone is returning and each will be better.” The boys’ team captured their first state championship
at Sunset Country Club in Moultrie, Georgia. The Longhorns scored a 290, besting Peachtree Ridge by two strokes to take the title. Lambert boys’ golf coach Brian Jakaitis said experience played to the Longhorns’ benefit with seniors Jake Fendt, Brennan Bogdanovich and Jake Thomas leading the way. Fendt scored a 68, the
See GOLF, Page 25
DEATH NOTICES Christopher Bartlett, 28, of Cumming, passed away May 12, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Frances M. DeJesso, 91, of Cumming, passed away May 20, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Hans Rainer Hoernle, 84, of Alpharetta, passed away May 18, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Larry James Parker, 76, of Cumming, passed away May 17, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Frances Bryant, of Woodstock, passed away May 13, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Mary Lynn Hayes Dukes, of Roswell, passed away May 18, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Lendon Ivey, 86, of Cumming, passed away May 17, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Edward Sandall, of Alpharetta, passed away May 13, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Dorothy Dannunzio, of Alpharetta, passed away May 13, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Miles Duley, of Alpharetta, passed away May 14, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Helen James, of Milton, passed away May 15, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Svetlana Lichman, 80, of Alpharetta, passed away May 19, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Carolyn Davis Slaight, of Alpharetta, passed away May 13, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Delta Austin Smith, 97, of Forsyth County, passed away May 16, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Willene Smithwick, of Alpharetta, passed away May 15, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Robert E. Treadaway, of Roswell, passed away, May 18, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
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Golf:
Crow:
Continued from Page 24
Continued from Page 4
second best individual score at the tournament, along with Bogdanovich’s 75 and Thomas’ 77. Junior Brett Baron’s 75 rounded out the scoring card for the Longhorns. On winning the state title, Jakaitis said, “It’s fantastic.” “We knew coming into the season that we had the team to win [the state championship],” he said. “They stepped up and showed everyone they were the best team. We had nine guys that on any day could have been our best player. “ Jakaitis said this title was especially meaningful for his seniors. “We had four seniors, and three seniors’ scores counted,” he said. “That’s four years of hard work that has paid off in the end.” Looking forward to next season, Jakaitis is confident that his team can defend and repeat their state title. “We’re losing four seniors but bringing back four capable players,” he said. “I think they’ll do just as well next year and hopefully win another one.”
risk, I responded to the call by Cumming city leaders and Forsyth County officials to join with Mayor Ford Gravitt and Sheriff Walraven in leading the community response to the infamous 1987 “Brotherhood March.” The related upheaval and widespread criticism could have rendered Cumming as another Selma. But with my leadership and the support of the people and businesses of Cumming and Forsyth County, the community stood tall, weathered the storm and moved forward to unprecedented growth and economic benefit to the citizens that continues to this very day. I have served as chairman of the Chamber of
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 27, 2015 | 25
Commerce and with the help of other committed business leaders, led revitalization of the organization, which is the principal voice of business and industry in the community. Along with Phil Bettis, I led a successful effort to create the Leadership Forsyth program, which continues through the present to provide motivation and training for future leaders. What first intrigued you about being on City Council? Intrigued is not a word I would use as for wanting to serve on City Council. My family and I are very happy as residents of Cumming. We appreciate and thank the councilmembers and mayor who have managed Cumming so well for over four decades, and I want to ensure that the same commitment to services,
Ledbetter: Continued from Page 4 lace State College. I taught ESL and GED at Lanier Tech after I retired. I was Ms. Senior Georgia in 2009. What first intrigued you about being on City Council? I just love government. I taught government for many years, and I just love political offices and City Council literature
public safety and financial stability is maintained. There has evolved an understanding that two other current city councilmembers do not plan to seek re-election in our November general election. If that becomes reality, then Cumming would have a new majority on the City Council and those members may not have the intention to keep Cumming well managed and free of property tax assessment.
and to ensure that Cumming is able to continue to provide terrific services and facilities without the need of assessing property taxes.
What do you hope to accomplish if elected to City Council? I have no hidden agenda and absolutely no intention of seeking the position of mayor of Cumming when Mayor Gravitt chooses to retire. I simply want to represent the citizens in maintaining the quality of life we have come to enjoy
Why should people vote for you? The June 16 election is about leadership. Roger Crow is a proven leader, a community builder and deserves the support and vote of citizens who want to keep Cumming as the well-managed, financially strong, wonderful place to live we have now.
all my life. It’s a good fit, and I have experience. I love to serve the people. What do you hope to accomplish if elected to City Council? I want to serve the people in any way I can and protect what the city already has. If any options come up to make things better, I’m open. The city has been well taken care of, and I want to be sure we preserve it. My goals are to serve the citizens of Cumming in any way I can and protect what the city has accomplished in the last 47 years I have lived here.
Why do you want to represent the city of Cumming? To keep Cumming the most financially sound city in Georgia, the most well managed city in existence and operating without assessing property tax on its citizens.
Why do you want to represent the city of Cumming? I’ve lived here all my life. I think I can help people. I did as a county commissioner, and I like to do that. If I can help anybody, I will. Why should people vote for you? My phone is listed and they can talk to me. I will pick up the phone, even if there is not anything I can do. I will listen. I think that’s one fault of politicians; they don’t make themselves available to the people they represent, and I will.
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