J u n e 1 5 , 2 0 1 7 | Fo r s y t h H e r a l d . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 0 , N o . 2 4
Lambert seniors organize summer farmers market
Sen. Williams to run for Ga. governor ►►PAGE 6
Lambert seniors Cesar Ruano, left, and Julia Ciaccia, set up the vendor sign-in table at the Lambert Farmers Market which they organized. Read more, Page 12.
Appen wins big at Ga. Press awards ►►PAGE 8
Overcrowded schools won’t impact learning ►►PAGE 11
Meet Forsyth’s valedictorians ►►PAGES 22 – 23
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man was reportedly stabbed June 6 outside of Stars and Strikes bowling alley on Merchants Square. The 19-year-old man said he was standing by his car in the parking lot from midnight to 1 a.m. when he was approached from behind by an unknown man. The attacker then apparently punched the man in the back of the head, knocking him to the ground. The victim said he was able to
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — While test driving a car to see what issues it had, a dealership employee was reportedly kidnapped June 2. The employee said a customer came to the dealership to get his car fixed so the two took the car for a test drive, but the employee couldn’t find any issues. The customer then became upset, so the dealership let him take the employee on another test drive. The cus-
tomer drove from the store on Atlanta Highway to the outlet mall in Dawsonville. The employee said he didn’t have time to be on such a long drive, but the customer became more upset and drove along multiple highways racking up 187 miles. The customer refused to take him back to the dealership until the problem could be identified. The employee got the customer to return when he told him the dealership may be able to replace the transmission. Authorities said the employee was told he could pursue kidnapping charges, but the employee said he didn’t want to as he didn’t feel in danger. The customer was told he’d be charged for four hours of service and to not return to the dealership in the future.
DUIS & DRUGS
► ► Shanda Michelle Stephens, 32,
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.
Test drive results in alleged kidnapping
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 Visit AppenMediaGroup.com for more information. The Herald Newspapers are published by Appen Media Group, 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta Ga. 30009.
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stand, but was struck again in the front of the head so he fell back to the ground. At that point, the attacker took out a knife and demanded the man’s wallet. The man refused, so the attacker stabbed him in the right leg causing a three-inch laceration. The stabber then fled on foot through the parking lot without the wallet. The man said he didn’t know the attacker and hadn’t seen him in the past.
►► Juan Fuentes, 34, of Atlanta
Highway, Alpharetta, was arrested June 3 on Atlanta Highway for DUI, driving without a valid license and hit and run. ►► Kameron D. Cultice, 56, of Bamby Road, Cumming, was arrested June 3 on Keith Bridge Road for DUI. ►► Jessee Paul Davis, 36, of Pine Acre Drive, Sugar Hill, was arrested June 3 on Buford Highway for DUI and tag light required. ►► Gilberto Sanchez-Rodriguez, 29, of Dawson Forest Road, Dawsonville, was arrested June 4 on A. C. Smith Road for DUI. ►► Krista Elaine Chadwick, 33, of Meadows Court, Dawsonville, was arrested May 23 on Wallace Tatum Road for DUI, possession of open alcohol container by driver and failure to report striking a fixed object. ►► Bari Lynn Schotta, 55, of Fourth Rail Lane, Cumming, was arrested June 4 on Browns Bridge Road for DUI.
of Forest Valley Way, Cumming, was arrested June 8 on Buford Dam Road for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Tylor James Nickerson, 27, of Sharon Lane, Cumming, was arrested June 7 on Sharon Circle for DUI. ►► Ronald David Roak, 27, of Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, was arrested June 7 on Browns Bridge Road for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Francisco Galindo Gonzales, 25, of Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta, was arrested June 10 on Strickland Road for DUI of drugs and driving without a valid license. ►► James Paul Sims, 39, of Ken Lane, Cumming, was arrested June 9 on Columns Drive for DUI, failure to maintain lane and following too closely.
Drug arrests ►► David Cruz-Soto, 21, of Northridge
Road, Atlanta, was arrested June 6 on McFarland Parkway for possession of marijuana and following too closely. ►► Rafael Cruz-Soto, 30, of Northridge Road, Atlanta, was arrested June 6 on McFarland Parkway for possession of marijuana. ►► Stephen Alexander Shatus, 25, of Vinery Avenue, Cumming, was arrested June 6 on Peachtree Parkway for pos-
Employee allegedly steals $200 worth of lotto tickets FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An employee of the RaceTrac gas station on Peachtree Parkway reportedly stole lottery tickets while working. The station manager said the 19-year-old employee was recorded on video May 24 removing six to eight tickets from the front counter, carrying them to the back room of the store and then putting them inside his jacket. Prior to removing the tickets, the employee was seen removing one lottery ticket from the counter and scratching it off. In total, the tickets cost $242. A warrant was secured for the employee’s arrest. session of drug-related item or narcotic and possession of marijuana. ►► Benjamin Conn Wallace, 22, of A. T. Moore Road, Dawsonville, was arrested June 7 on Matt Highway for possession of a schedule IV controlled substance and failure to maintain lane. ►► Shannon Dean Nettles, 43, of Chamblee Gap Road, Cumming, was arrested June 5 on Bethelview Road for possession of methamphetamines with intent to distribute and failure to maintain insurance. ►► Christopher Manuel Milo, 41, of Shore Drive, Cumming, was arrested June 7 at Shore Drive for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of a schedule I controlled substance. ►► Nendell Josuah Resulma, 23, of Verbena Way, Auburn, was arrested June 9 on Market Place Blvd., for possession of marijuana and affixing reflective materials to windshield or windows. ►► Javier Merino Vazquez, 21, of Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta, was arrested June 10 on Strickland Road for possession of marijuana. ►► Kimberly Denise Land, 49, of Joyce Lane, Cumming, was arrested June 9 on Shadburn Road for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a schedule II controlled substance and failure to maintain lane.
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 3
Are your eyes being protected from UV damage? By Dr. Cassandra Baker Although summer doesn’t technically hit for another week or so, we are already soaking up that Atlanta sunshine— hopefully through a pair of sunglasses. The sun’s rays are most intense during the Spring and Summer months, but it is important to remember to protect your eyes even during the Fall and Winter. When heading out in the summer sun our mental checklist should always include sunscreen, a hat, and Cassandra Baker, O.D. sunglasses. But why should your checklist have sunglasses on it, and why exactly is it so important to keep those baby blues protected? Ultraviolet radiation—invisible rays of light energy—are emitted from the sun 365 days a year, even on cloudy days. Theses light rays cause damage to the skin and eyes, which is why protection from theses rays is important year-round. Absorption of too much ultraviolet light can lead to cataracts, retinal changes and degeneration, growths on the surface or inside of the eye (pinguecula, pterygia, nevi), as well as skin lesions and skin growths. These conditions may be monitored over time, or if they appear suspicious for malignancy, other forms of intervention may be necessary. So, who is at risk for UV damage? Everyone! However, individuals with lighter colored eyes and skin are typically at higher risk for these conditions as they have less protective pigment to absorb the ultraviolet rays. Reflective surfaces also increase UV exposure, making sun protection essential when you’re swimming at the pool, cruising in a boat on the lake, or lounging on the beach. For those of us who enjoy getting up to the north Georgia mountains for a scenic hike, sun protection is important for these trips as well as UV light is more intense at higher altitudes. Some medications can also increase light sensitivity. It is important to check with your prescribing provider to ensure you take extra measures when out in the sun if you are taking any of those medications. Thankfully we have many channels of UV eye protection that should be utilized from childhood age and up. Lenses in glasses today, some brands of contact lenses, and intra-ocular implants used during cataract surgery all have a UV protectant built in to them. Sunglasses are still important even with these innovations and can be found in just about any shape, size, color, and price point. Polarized lenses are great for people who are out on water or do a lot of driving, however they do not necessarily provide increased UV protection. Lenses that boast blockage of UVA and UVB light are ideal, polarized or not. We recommend working with your eye care provider to see which lens is best for you! Finally, the American Optometric Association suggests annual eye exams for those over 65 years of age, every one to two years for adults, and every year for children when they are in school. It is important to keep in mind that good vision does not equal good eye health unless confirmed via a thorough eye examination. Milan Eye Center has state of the art equipment and physicians to diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions associated with UV damage. We, alongside use of the recommendations above, would like to protect your eyesight now and for the future.
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4 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
Commissioners mull preliminary 2018 budget Local Service
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County predicts 9 percent jump in revenue from property taxes By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners had their first look June 6 at the county’s preliminary 2018 budget. The millage rate — the rate at which property is taxed — is set to remain at 8.036 mills for the county and 19.718 for schools, for a total millage rate of 27.754 mills. The county’s operating budget is scheduled to jump 6.4 percent, from $117 million in 2017 to $125 million projected for 2018. Funding for that increase will come from an anticipated rise in the value of the property and a jump in sales tax collections in the county. Overall, forecasts call for an 8 percent increase in tax revenues, including a 9 percent jump for real and personal property taxes and a 6 percent increase from sales taxes. Costs are also rising across a number of departments. Training is up 16 percent, court administration up 17.4 percent, senior services up 19 percent, E-911 center
Fowler Park will likely see a major renovation in the form of a capital project including $900,000 for the replacement of two grass fields with synthetic turf and $230,000 for playground surface replacement. up 33 percent, district beautification up 40 percent and coroner/medical examiner up 54 percent. The board, itself, is expected to see an increase of 4 percent in costs. Some departments are anticipating a decrease in spending. Personnel services will be down 12.3 percent, public transportation down 15.7 percent,
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ALPHARETTA/WINDWARD: 1015 Compass Pointe Crossing. Moving sale. Saturday 6/17, Sunday 6/18, 9am-3pm. Furniture, art, decor’ ALPHARETTA: Hunters Oaks Subdivision; 5280 Hunters Oaks Drive 30009. Friday 6/16 and Saturday 6/17, 8am-2pm. Moving/estate sale! Indoor & outdoor furniture, household & decorative items, lawn tools, tool chest, kitchenware, etc CUMMING: 7825 Brookwood Way. Saturday 6/17, 8am-1pm. Yard sale. Furniture, household, clothes, l Buddy bike (special needs tandem bike; buddybike.com) CUMMING: 2090 Red Barn Court 30040. Friday 6/16-Sunday 6/18 8:30AM-3:30PM. Estate sale. Washer and dryer, powered reclining chair, racing bike, dresser, coffee table, chairs, paintings etc CUMMING: Entire Ivey Manor! Bentley and Post Roads 30040. Friday 6/16, Saturday 6/17, 8am-2pm. MILTON: Crooked Creek Community Wide Sale! 14250 Creek Club Drive. Saturday 6/17, 7am-3pm. All shoppers welcome! MILTON: 2175 Dinsmore Road. Interior designer’s sale; Friday 6/16, 8am4pm. Furniture, decorative accessories, college dorm items SOUTH FORSYTH MOVING SALE Dining/Buffet 6 Chairs $475: Bedroom Set/Chest $675: Office Desk/Book Case $275. 404-409-6093
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Public hearings on the 2018 budget will be held at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. July 6, and at 6 p.m. July 20 at the Forsyth County Administration Building, 110 East Main Street in Cumming. The Board of Commissioners will vote on the final version in November. transfers out and reserves down 22.6 percent and communications down 26.5 percent. Individually, public safety accounts for the greatest share of expenditures, $44.5 million, or 36 percent of the operating budget. General government accounts for 26 percent of expenditures, followed by culture and recreation at 13.8 percent and judicial accounting for 11.6 percent. In total the general fund expenditures will increase 4.2 percent. Overall, the general fund revenues will increase 6.4 percent to $125 million. Of that total, nearly half, 48 percent, will come from real and personal property taxes. Sales taxes will make up about 25 percent of the total, and charges for services will account for 11 percent. Not all revenues will be up. There will be an 18 percent decrease in the general fund for grants and intergovernmental revenues. Still, with general fund revenues at $125 million and expenditures at $122 million, the county will have a couple of million dollars in available funds. The budget includes the addition of 17 deputies, three school resource officers and three detectives in the sheriff’s office. The Fire Department has been slated to hire six fire captains. Capital expenditures include a $1.9 million firing range and purchase of land for a new sheriff’s office headquarters. Fowler Park will likely see a major renovation in the form of a capital project including $900,000 for the replacement of two grass fields with synthetic turf and $230,000 for playground surface replacement. Through the capital projects fund, the fire department will be replacing five units totaling $283,255, replacing a fire ventilation mobile training unit at $85,000 and buying a rescue vehicle for the Greenway at $10,000.
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 5
6 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
NEWS
Williams announces campaign for governor Senator plans to run on ‘fearless conservatism’ By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The governor of Georgia could soon hail from Forsyth County. State Sen. Michael Williams officially announced June 1 his run for the seat. Initially, Williams WILLIAMS was staying tightlipped about his campaign, waiting for the 6th Congressional District race to be decided June 20. But after encouragement from supporters, Williams said he decided to make the announcement. “I feel like I’m the best qualified person to (run for governor),” Williams said. “We bring a great message to the people.” Williams said he is proud to be the first elected official in Georgia to publically endorse Donald Trump for president. In his announcement email, Williams wrote he’s “running on a message
of fearless conservative reform, exposing the political games played by establishment career politicians in Atlanta.” “We need that same kind of change agent here in Georgia to break up the process that handicapped Atlanta and the legislative process,” Williams said. “I can bring excitement and change to it.” Williams’ bid means he will be unable to run for reelection of his senate spot in 2018. He was first elected in 2014. Since then, Williams said in his announcement, he has witnessed the “passion of voters who are fed up with politics as usual.” “Voters are tired of the political games and the false promises of career politicians,” he wrote. “People want someone willing to take a stand for what they believe, someone who will relentlessly pursue fearless conservative reform.” Georgia has had a Republican governor for almost 16 years and a Republican-controlled House and Senate for over a decade, he said. “But yet we still don’t have elimination of the income tax or constitutional carry and are no closer to
school choice,” Williams said. “These are all these conservative principals candidates have stomped on. We have to become fearless and make sure the legislation passes.” Williams said he isn’t a “career politician” or bureaucrat. Instead, he’s a small business owner who can relate to others like him. “We will bring that business owner mentality down to the Capitol and make sure the government is running effectively and efficiently,” he said. Taking on the establishment is nothing new for Williams who beat the incumbent senator for his current seat. “We will take that same type of fearless, no-nonsense tack this time as well,” Williams said. If elected, Williams said this move could be huge for Forsyth County residents. He said he’s developed strong relationships within the county and anticipates maintaining them. “We are the fastest growing county in the state and have the best education system,” Williams said. “As I go around talking to the people of Georgia about education, I look to Forsyth County and how we do it.” And while out in the state, Williams said he wants to let people know there
Voters are tired of the political games and the false promises of career politicians. People want someone willing to take a stand for what they believe, someone who will relentlessly pursue fearless conservative reform.” MICHAEL WILLIAMS Ga. State Sen. is “someone fighting for them.” “I want to expose what’s going on down there,” he said. “There are a lot of really good people in the state Legislature. But their ideas are stifled through the process.” To learn about Williams’ campaign, visit williamsgeorgia.com.
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 7
8 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
OPINION
Print journalism is alive and well in Georgia Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers and immediately felt at home? That’s exactly what happened to me last week while attending the anKATHLEEN STURGEON nual Georgia Press Association conferEditor kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ence. From the moment I walked into the first meeting I knew I was among friends. Immediately I was surrounded by some of the best journalists in Georgia who write, publish and own local newspapers, many family run like Appen Media Group. Nearly every topic, question or complaint they had, I, too, have encountered at some moment in my career. These were my people and they have similar experiences that I can relate to more than probably anyone I know, outside of our newsroom. I met a woman who writes for a newspaper in South Georgia. Her father owned the paper and somehow made the county sheriff so angry, the newspaper building was burned down, the father was threatened to be shot by the sheriff and he eventually had to flee the town. Apparently, that’s just the nature of the business. So when it came time to discuss the
From left Appen Media Group Executive Editor Hatcher Hurd, General Manager Hans Appen and Editor Kathleen Sturgeon hold their awards at the Georgia Press Association Better Newspaper Contest on Jekyll Island. future of journalism, I couldn’t help but hang onto every word. We were told repeatedly that what we do is important now more than ever and that the heart of journalism lies within local newspapers. We are one of the few professions that will publically and unapologetically admit our mistakes in the form of corrections and usually at the beginning of
the paper. We are the ones who are at the funerals, six-hour board meetings and Saturday morning farmer’s markets because we want to showcase the cities from all aspects, good and bad, while being ingrained in the community. It was comforting to be reassured by the state’s top local media professionals to keep on fighting the good fight.
And it was inspiring to hear about other local newspapers doing so well in their communities because I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been told “print journalism is dying. You’re wasting your time.” No, in fact, we are thriving. Where other forms of media are looked at as biased or fake, local newspapers fill in the gaps with truthful, honest and thorough information. Of course, we have the heavy charge to stay true, authentic, open and candid with our readers and not let our own opinions cloud our writing. I was honored to be named the Emerging Journalist in the state, and before I accepted my award, the speaker said the future of journalism is in my and my peers’ hands. I don’t take that responsibility lightly and I don’t think they do, either, as we try to usher journalism into new territories while keeping true to the nature of the profession. One word kept being said during the convention — passion. Judges based award winners off how passionately the writer covered an event or spoke of a topic. Publishers spoke about how passionate they are about their community. Passion is what will separate the fake news from the original crusaders of democracy, the true journalists. And from what I saw in that room, Georgia is full of passionate reporters who want to tell nothing but the truth.
Appen Media honored by Ga. Press Better Newspaper Contest Editor Kathleen Sturgeon named Emerging Journalist JEKYLL ISLAND, Ga. — Appen Media Group took home multiple awards June 2 at the 2017 Georgia Press Association Better Newspaper Contest on Jekyll Island. More than 550 awards were presented at the 131st convention in 37 categories to 73 newspapers. Judging was performed by members of the Alabama Press Association. In total, Appen Media brought home four awards. Two young journalists were honored as winners of GPA’s Emerging Journalist Awards. Journalists younger than 30 with less than five years of experience writing professionally for a newspaper — one representing daily newspapers and representing weeklies — were honored for demonstrating excellence and maintaining high standards of quality and ethics. The daily newspaper winner was Brittini Ray of the Savannah Morning News. The weekly newspaper winner was Kathleen Sturgeon of the Forsyth Herald of Appen Media Group.
One judge commented that Sturgeon submitted a mix of hard-news stories and commentaries that show versatility and talent, while being able to handle many different topics. “It’s easy to see she is comfortable writing both,” the judge wrote. “Her news stories demonstrate that she has developed a wide range of sources in her community and that she is trusted. She looks to have a bright future and is a great representative of our next generation of journalists.” Sturgeon also took home a third place award for Hard News Writing, which judges said shows her ability to inform readers. Executive Editor Hatcher Hurd won two first place awards for his Serious Column and Humorous Column writing. Judges wrote Hurd’s 10 New Year’s Resolutions column provided a lot of laughs, while his serious column entry had, “impactful, strong writing on difficult topics.” “These columns were written in a way that made it impossible not to relate, regardless of whether the reader is a local,” the judge wrote. Senior Designer, Client Ad Services David Brown also took home awards earlier this year at the Georgia
... [Sturgeon’s] news stories demonstrate that she has developed a wide range of sources in her community and that she is trusted. She looks to have a bright future and is a great representative of our next generation of journalists.” Georgia Press Association Better Newspaper Contest judge Press Association 2017 Advertising Contest. He won first and second place in the Service/Institutional Ad contest for his work designing ads for Milton Boys Lacrosse and Providence Bank. Additionally, earlier this year Newsroom Manager AJ McNaughton was named a Rising Star at the annual Association of Free Community Papers conference in Kentucky.
NEWS
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 9
Board considers updating county massage parlor rules Updates proposed following arrests for prostitution By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After a recent string of arrests of local massage parlor employees for prostitution and providing illegal sexual acts, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners is revisiting county policy governing the establishments. County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the board wants to make sure the county has a consistent list of acceptable zonings and usages of places like massage parlors. In November 2015, the county adopted a massage/spa ordinance in an attempt to prevent illicit activity. “The whole purpose of the ordinance is that there are legitimate businesses being run,” Jarrard said. When first introduced, employees of “legitimate” massage businesses were “quite vocal” about the ordinance, Jarrard said. Commission Chairman Todd Levent said the purpose of the updates and ordinance is so if a license is revoked, a new owner cannot come in and start
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The whole purpose of the ordinance is that there are legitimate businesses being run.” KEN JARRARD Forsyth County Attorney the business back up. The proposal will be considered at the July 11 board work session after Jarrard drafts proposed changes to the massage/spa ordinance. Additionally, Jarrard was directed to look into vape shop ordinances and zonings. “There is some argument that all of these businesses might be unique to the area where you’re actually zoning the property,” Jarrard said. “Having a harmonized set of ‘no-nasties’ may not make sense in every situation.” Jarrard said he will examine
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whether there are specific county zonings that tend to be a magnet for instances like this. Just like the county’s alcohol license ordinance, Jarrard said they could set something up where the license would be revoked after certain infractions. “The county has enjoyed success the last month or so with administration hearings,” Jarrard said. “There is still some more ground to hoe.” The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office has conducted multiple massage parlor raids since the inception of the ordinance in 2015. In March 2016, the office conducted a large operation targeting illegal massage parlors in the county, many of which are now shut down. Deputies went to 15 massage parlors March 11 that had not complied with the new ordinance during the grace period. In total, 18 citations were issued to 10 of the massage parlors. Five were closed and remain shuttered. Others remain temporarily closed until they can come into compliance with the ordinance. In January, Eun Kang, a 44 yearold female and employee of Healing Touch Massage Parlor, 1525 McFarland Parkway, was arrested Jan. 23 and
charged with prostitution. In May, that business’ massage/spa license was revoked. Also in May, another undercover operation found three businesses attempting to provide illegal sexual acts, leading to three arrests. The businesses cited are: • Edge Massage Therapy, 765 McFarland Parkway, Suite C, Alpharetta; Suk Yong Holman, 54, of Atlanta, was arrested for prostitution, cited for not being clothed appropriately and for fondling the genitals of another. • Yuan Massage, 7810 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 107, Suwanee; Feng Wang, 52, of Norcross, was arrested for masturbation for hire and keeping a place of prostitution. • “A” Massage, 2255 Callaway Court, Suite 400, Cumming; Jinjie Guo, 40, of Duluth, was arrested for masturbation for hire. This is the second arrest the sheriff’s office has made this year for a sexual act for hire at Edge Massage Therapy. A follow-up investigation is underway and may result in other charges, authorities said.
10 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
NEWS
Lake Lanier water levels rise over a foot in May Conditions improve with recent rainfall By JACK WAYLOCK news@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Recent visitors to Lake Lanier may notice water levels are unusually low this time of year. However lake officials say there has been little impact to lake activities and are confident levels are rising with recent rainfall. Currently the water level is at 1,064 feet, which is slightly unusual for the summer months, according to Joanna Cloud, executive director of the Lake Lanier Association. “While the current levels are much lower than full pool, it is not necessarily a problem,” Cloud said. “We are confident that recreation is not impacted.” Full pool — the water level at which the lake is considered at operating optimum — for Lake Lanier is 1,071 feet above sea level. Lanier hasn’t been close to that level any time this year, but officials do not believe this has had much impact on usual lake activity for the summer.
Lake Lanier in 2007 at 17ft below full pool.
Lake Lanier with water levels similar to today.
Last month water levels were at 1,063.2 feet, but rains over the past month have bumped levels up over a foot. When the level drops below 1,066 feet recreation becomes impacted, but only to a minimal extent. Not until the lake levels drop below 1,063 do the effects become especially noticeable. “Below this level most designated beach areas become unusable and navigational hazards are more numerous,” Cloud said. When the lake drops below 1,060 feet, recreational activities can
become dangerous, some boat ramps become unusable and lake officials do not advise driving on the lake if the water is this low. With the lake now at its highest level of the year, it is still much lower than recorded levels in 2015, 2014 and most of 2013. Though visitors may notice the lower than usual water levels this year, it hardly compares to the drought of 2012 when levels dropped to 1,056.34, almost 20 feet below full pool. This drought resulted in a number of prob-
lems, including an old racetrack underneath the lake becoming visible once again with low water levels. South Georgia continues to experience “severe drought” intensity in some counties, but there is currently no drought or “abnormal dryness” in Forsyth County, which holds around 30 percent of the lake in its borders. This is excellent news for residents, because as recently as May 16 parts of Forsyth County were experiencing “moderate drought,” which prompted officials to urge residents to guard water usage. While Forsyth and Hall County, which hold the largest portions of the lake, are not experiencing drought or dryness any more, part of Lumpkin County, located just north of the lake, is still experiencing drought-like conditions. While not a part of its shoreline, neighboring counties to the north feed Lake Lanier by way of the Chestatee River, which begins in Lumpkin. It is expected that lake levels will continue to rise throughout the remainder of the year. For questions concerning water levels or to report a serious hazard, the public is urged to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for Lake Lanier at 770-945-1467.
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County officials discuss school overcapacity Forsyth Schools officials say education quality not affected By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — While some Forsyth County schools are over capacity, officials say this will not impact the quality of education received. During the June 6 Forsyth County Board of Commissioners meeting, school and county officials discussed the impact of increased zonings in the county on the schools. Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said she was worried about the increase number of zoning applications in her district, and how those will bring challenges to the educational infrastructure, specifically at Silver City Elementary School. She spoke with School Superintendent Jeff Bearden, board of education members and state representatives. Bearden had sent Mills a letter in which he listed numerous schools receiving multiple trailers for the upcoming school year. “The board of education will soon be planning for the 2018 bond,” Bearden wrote. “No doubt additional schools and expansions will need to be considered to accommodate for future growth.” Board of Education Chairwoman Kristin Morrissey said currently nine elementary schools out of the district’s 21 are over capacity. “I understand the concern,” Morrissey said. “But we JEFF BEARDEN School Superintendent have schools that are a higher priority because they already have too many students.” Silver City is about 100 students overcapacity, Morrissey said, but it is the least overcrowded when compared to other schools with some 1,000 students over capacity. Forsyth County Schools Director of Facilities Planning Tim Amerson said they look at the quality of education in all schools, especially overcrowded ones. “We were able to get the classroom
student-to-teacher ratios the same as before the schools were overcrowded,” Amerson said. “The education opportunity is well above most everything in metro Atlanta. We can teach the students and will do so.” The district analyzes overcrowding by the Georgia Department of Education’s standards and uses its method for determining construction of new facilities. The state created a matrix that considers grade levels and school climates. The matrix differs from elementary to middle to high school, Amerson said. “We have a good record of being able to address the populations as they come,” Amerson said. “Yes, they are coming fast and furious. But we think we can handle it. We are almost caught up.” Amerson said there is no “magic number” to determine which schools get relief, but the optimum percent is 80 for capacity. For example, plans for East Forsyth High School were put on hold during the recession. It’s now anticipated to be in the next bond referendum and opened about 2021. Additionally, an elementary school is planned for the north end of the county and a middle school for the west side. “I had to cut the population at South Forsyth High School and Lambert High School in half to create Denmark High School,” he said. “We are always evaluating the growth twice or three times a year and where the new locations need to be.” Once a school is over capacity from the state’s matrix chart, Amerson said the state will step in to address the issue, possibly by helping fund new construction. “We can start building schools with local funds before we reach 100 percent, but that’s going to be all locally funded and no state participation,” Amerson said. To keep up with the growth, Morrissey said Amerson and the district have been looking at the number reports a lot recently to find out how to plan for the future.
No doubt additional schools and expansions will need to be considered to accommodate for future growth.”
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 11
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12 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
Local students launch farmers market Lambert seniors market local goods to community By JORDAN MEAKER news@appenmediagroup.com
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — For rising Lambert High School seniors Julia Ciaccia and Cesar Ruano, one short conversation sparked an idea. Their idea brought people in their community together to share goods, smiles and conversation at a farmers market held at Lambert every Saturday of the summer. “One day Julia and I were talking, and she said, ‘do you remember the farmers market at Brookwood?’ ” Ruano said. Ciaccia further explained how she was inspired to start the Lambert Farmers Market after noticing a lack of similar events in Forsyth County. “The elementary school that I live near, Brookwood Elementary School, used to have a farmers market,” Ciaccia said. “I really enjoyed going to that one, and there’s not a close market in my area, so I wanted to start one at my school.” Ciaccia and Ruano teamed up to put their idea into reality. They decided to run the Lambert Farmers Market with the help of their school’s Beta Club, an organization focused on community service and academic achievement. Any leftover funds from the market will go to benefit the club. “Beta Club is so focused on helping the community, so we said this would help the community, but also strengthen the bonds between the people within it,” Ruano said. June 10 was the third Saturday the market was held, and the number of vendors has grown each week. Now, more than 20 local businesses and vendors have signed up to participate. The vendors have been selling a wide variety of products, from fresh baked goods and homemade soaps to barbeque sauce and candles. Ruano talked about the benefits of shopping from these local vendors at a farmers market as opposed to a large supermarket. “I think that the best quality products are from these local people that really put so much effort and dedication into their product,” Ruano said. “When you buy from a vendor, you get to know who makes your product, and I feel like that’s pretty cool.” Ciaccia described the process of finding vendors. “It was definitely difficult at first, but in the past few weeks we’ve had a
JORDAN MEAKER/HERALD
Ashantae Washington, creator of Cookie Couture’d, sells fresh baked cookies at the Lambert Farmers Market on June 10.
lot of people sign up,” she said. Ciaccia said that there was a decent turnout for the first Saturday market, but a smaller crowd for the next Saturday. “I think what we’re struggling with now is trying to get the word out to everybody so that we can have a lot of customers coming,” Ciaccia said. The duo has created a Facebook page and an Instagram account for the Lambert Farmers Market. They have hung flyers and signs in Johns Creek, Suwanee and Alpharetta. Additionally, Ciaccia and Ruano recently joined the app Nextdoor, which acts as a social network for neighborhoods, allowing residents to stay up to date on local happenings. “We’re hoping that through word of mouth and continuing to post on social media, we’ll get more people,” Ciaccia said. As for the future of the Lambert Farmers Market, Ciaccia and Ruano both hope to pass the torch to other students after they graduate, but they also plan to help out with the market when they return from college for the summer. Both students stressed the good that a farmers market can do for a community. “If our local businesses are growing, it’s just good all around for the community,” Ciaccia said. Ruano agreed. “You get to know the people that you interact with, and it’s like a safe haven for people. It’s pretty neat to have somewhere you go each week and it’s somewhere you belong.” The Lambert Farmers Market is held at Lambert High School from 4-8 p.m., every Saturday from May 27 to Oct. 28. For more information, visit lambertfarmersmarket.com.
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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 13
Local woman’s documentary addresses sexual assault, domestic violence
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By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. — One Johns Creek woman is shining a light on sexual assault and domestic violence in Metro Atlanta with her documentary “Dear Women Project.” The producer, Leigh Takata, said she was inspired by her own struggles getting help in North Fulton after she was sexually assaulted. “In North Fulton, there aren’t really many resources specifically for victims of sexual assault,” Takata said. “You have to go to South Fulton for help. They can be hard to access, especially if you don’t have transportation to get there.” The documentary aims to clarify some myths and misconceptions about sexual assault and domestic violence and open a discussion on what are often considered difficult topics. “What happened to me happened in Johns Creek, and often times I feel like people in more affluent areas don’t want to talk about it, don’t want to acknowledge that it exists there,” Takata said. “But it does. It happens everywhere. It doesn’t matter how much money you make or where you work or how intelligent you are – it can happen to anyone at any time. And unfortunately, often times, it’s from people you know, not random strangers.” The documentary will feature local women who will talk about their own stories and experiences. Takata herself is one of the women in the film. She had written short stories and poetry about her assault as a way to cope, but did not decide to make a documentary until she was approached by other women in similar situations. The sheer number inspired her to document their struggles in what would become the “Dear Women Project.” Takata said that her own assault happened in 2008 by a friend she was close to, and that the incident left a void in her life. But talking about it helped. “It’s hard. Even now, even though it’s been almost nine years ago,” Takata said. “But just talking about it has been very beneficial and therapeutic. Hopefully, other people will be inspired to share their stories as well after seeing it.” The documentary will also be outlining some coping mechanisms, how to
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Informational Seminar Dr. Gary Figiel The “Dear Women Project” documentary will be shown June 17 in Alpharetta. talk about consent and give messages for other women in similar situations. “The main thing we try to emphasize throughout the film is ‘you’re not alone,’” Takata said. “When this happened to me, I felt like I didn’t have anyone to talk to or turn to. It’s awful. I don’t want other people to feel like that. I want people to know that you’re not alone.” Although aimed toward women, the documentary is not just for women. “I think men really need to see this film also,” Takata said. “We need to create more awareness from everyone that these types of situations happen in even the most affluent areas.” Takata’s long-term goal is to film a series of similar documentaries featuring women from other cities around the nation sharing their stories and experiences. After the film, there will be a panel of four speakers who specialize in helping women who have experienced sexual assault or domestic violence. Speakers include Wendy Lipshutz of Shalom Bayit, Joan Prittie from Athensbased Project Safe and Kenni York of the Let Your Voice be Heard Foundation. “Dear Women Project” will be screened from 2-5 p.m., June 17, at Roam Innovative Workplace, 5815 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased at bit.ly/2sbWbOO.
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14 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
Molly Welch, along with other presenters, spoke at the Road2Safety organization’s event earlier this year.
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Molly Welch stars in ad on dangers of distracted driving By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com
NORTH FULTON, Ga. — Alpharetta resident Molly Welch is spreading a message that is often heard – do not drive distracted – but it is her personal story that give so much weight to her message. Welch knows firsthand the dangers of distracted driving. A 2008 traffic accident led to her being in a coma, having to relearn skills to walk and enduring injuries to her brain and spine. Nine years after the life-altering event, she is spreading her message in the hope that others will take her experience to heart and realize that one second can change everything. In 2008, Welch was a junior at Auburn University pursuing a journalism degree. She had returned home for a short weekend to visit a friend, and was driving back to the school when a momentary lapse in concentration led to years of recovery. Welch took her eyes off the road to play a recording of an interview she had conducted. In her lapse in concentration on the road, Welch veered into oncoming traffic and was struck by a pickup truck. The subsequent crash left her in a coma for weeks and resulted in a traumatic brain injury. When Welch came out of her coma, she was unable to walk. It would be another three
years before she was able to do so. The injuries also left her nearly unable to speak. But nine years of dedication and personal drive, including speech and physically therapy at Atlanta’s Shepard Center, have led Welch down the road to recovery. Though her accident forced Welch to wait another three years before finishing her bachelor’s degree in journalism, four years after the accident, she completed her degree. Now 30, Welch volunteers as a peer counselor and motivational speaker with the Shepard Center and her service goes beyond the center’s walls. Through public service announcements and online videos, Welch is sharing her story in the hopes that others will heed her advice. One of the PSAs she is featured in has been nominated for a Southeastern Emmy Award for community and public service. Welch said the influx of technology, and their use in cars, makes the PSA and her story more valuable than ever as distracted driving has rapidly become a pressing social issue. “It’s the perfect time to make it,” she said. She hopes her story can show that distracted driving, even just glancing away from the road for a brief moment, can have detrimental effects. “I want to let people know the outcomes that distracted driving can have,” Welch said. “I don’t want anyone to have to deal with what I’ve been through.” To view more of Welch’s story, visit http://tinyurl.com/y9rcuqmy. For the PSA, go to http://tinyurl.com/ yd8k25sj.
COMMUNITY
Shiloh Elementary students win Crown Jewel award FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The RockinRobots Team of fourth graders from Shiloh Point Elementary recently won the VEX IQ 2017 World Elementary Excellence Award in April. The students are Charu Bigamudra, Sanjana Saravanan, Eshita Ramesh and Siddhanth Lakshmisha. This team won the Crown jewel Award which is given to the group that demonstrates overall excellence in creating a VEX robotics program. Results include rankings in Design Award, STEM Research Project Award, Engineering Notebook, Teamwork Challenge Qualification Matches and Robot Skills Challenge. VEX Worlds 2017, presented by the Northrop Grumman Foundation, is a robotics competition for top competitors. This year’s VEX Robotics World Championship hosted 1,400 teams from over 30 nations worldwide. The competition was April 20-25 in Louisville, Kentucky. The VEX Robotics World Championship has four programs such as VEX IQ Challenge Elementary School World
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 15
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Todd Jones addresses veterans at the May meeting.
State Representative speaks at the General Assembly CUMMING, Ga — Todd Jones, a technology executive and current state legislator for the 25th District, spoke at the May monthly meeting of the Cumming chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America. At the meeting, he discussed the potential of a third Industrial Revolution taking place in Georgia. He believes it can be built upon leading edge industries, such as autonomous vehicles and 3-D printing. Jones, who represents parts of South Forsyth and North Fulton counties in the legislature, said Georgia’s economic growth potential is virtually limitless with the right leadership at the state capitol. Jones was elected last November, succeeding former Representative Mike Dudgeon.
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It was a great opportunity to see how folks could come together in the community to solve problems and to make a positive impact on healthcare. GEOFF DUNCAN, State Representative 16 | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017
New medical plaza opens in Cumming Georgia Highlands grand opening affirms organization’s commitment to community By NATASHA ROY news@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Dozens of doctors, government officials, family and friends gathered May 31 for the grand opening of the Georgia Highlands Medical Services in Cumming. GHMS is a nonprofit community health center serving more than 15,000 patients, 76 percent of whom live below poverty level and 51 percent of whom are uninsured, the organization says. The opening of the new, three-story medical center will allow the organization to expand its facilities, adding confidential intake areas, exam rooms and storage space, among other amenities. Since its founding in 1979, GHMS has housed itself in a multitude of locations, from a trailer to the newest medical plaza. However, its mission to provide healthcare to the needy has not changed in the years. “For our Forsyth County residents who remember GHMS from its earlier days, I would assure them that these new facilities the new logo and the new brand reflect a change only in our appearance,” Keith Pruitt, president of the GHMS Board of Directors, said in a press release. Addressing the crowd at the grand opening, GHMS CEO Todd Shifflet said the organization has come a long way
since 1979. “I think our legacy of service for all these years, in good times and bad, speaks for itself,” Shifflet said. “No doubt this building is a huge milestone.” Shifflet assured the crowd that the current family practice, the Cumming Family Health Center, will remain open for the community as well. Pruitt spoke of the impact GHMS has on the community, and he also said that the Cumming Family Health Center will be renovated. “Hope lives at Georgia Highlands,” Pruitt said. State Reps. Geoff Duncan and Sheri Gilligan, state Sen. Michael Williams, U.S. Rep. Robert Woodall and Cumming Mayor Ford Gravitt also spoke at the grand opening. Gilligan recalled when Georgia Highlands came to Forsyth County when she was a student at Forsyth County High School. “I think about where we have come since then, and I am so glad that Georgia Highlands has been here for this community, and as the community has grown, we have been able to watch your efforts flourish,” Gilligan said. “It’s just wonderful. I’m so excited for everybody in the community.” Duncan said that witnessing the efforts of GHMS a year ago inspired him to write a bill expanding healthcare
The Georgia Highlands Medical Plaza officially opens. in the state. “It was a great opportunity to see how folks could come together in the community to solve problems and to make a positive impact on healthcare,” Duncan said. “I ended up writing a bill that looks at an opportunity to open a hundred additional facilities just like this all across Georgia, as not being a constant solution for the problem that
we face here, but to absolutely improve access to healthcare.” Shifflet said that rather than act as a replacement for the Cumming Family Health Center, the new Georgia Highlands Medical Plaza is just an expansion of GHMS’s goal. “We’re gonna be here now and long into the future,” Shifflet said. “We are here for you guys.”
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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 17
Economy idling with foot near the gas The housing market started the year with its foot firmly on the gas, fueled by strong economic data, a booming stock market and a new president intent on passing initiatives aimed to increase jobs and boost corporate revenues. The breaks were applied after the healthcare bill failed to pass Congress. As it stands now, many are idling forward, waiting for GEOFF SMITH the right moment to jump back on Assurance Financial, the gas. gsmith@lendtheway.com Mortgage interest rates were sent on a roller coaster ride this year. Rates are tied indirectly to the stock market. When the stock market goes up, mortgage interest rates typically go up. When stocks go down, mortgage interest rates tend to go down. They started the year in the middle of a steep rise as investors continued to position themselves for opportunity by buying stocks they thought would thrive under the new president. They ultimately peaked in March as the 30-year fixed average was at 4.4 percent, according to Mortgage News Daily. At that time, the healthcare bill failed to pass Congress and investors recoiled, concerned about the president’s ability to pass his initiatives. Rates followed and dropped, hitting their lowest point on June 2 at 3.98 percent. The drop was fueled by more than just politics. The June jobs report, released every month by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, showed a surprisingly low unemployment rate of 4.3 percent. While it is instinctive to think that low unemployment is good for the economy, low unemployment can stall growth as employers have trouble finding the skilled labor necessary to expand their products and services. Our metro leaders are working hard to grow upon Atlanta’s reputation as a great live-work-play city. And they need to, because other metro areas are doing the same. And as the competition for skilled workers becomes that much more intense, businesses will locate themselves in cities that are attractive to today’s workforce. The question right now is: where is everyone going to live? Numbers released by Smart Real Estate Data show that home inventories under the $400,000-mark are at historic lows, while inventories at the above $400,000mark are rising fast. Houses priced around $300,000 and below are seeing inventory levels of about two months! That means if no new listings came out, in two months there would be nothing to sell. A healthy market is six months of inventory.
While it is instinctive to think that low unemployment is good for the economy, low unemployment can stall growth as employers have trouble finding the skilled labor necessary to expand their products and services. The sub-$400,000 market is a fierce seller’s market where buyers have to act fast and impress the seller. The listing agent’s main job these days is to price the house as high as it could appraise for, then pick the buyer who will give them what they want, and who will close with little fuss. This competition has driven home values up. In some parts of town, values have risen 5 percent to 10 percent in just the last year. If you are in the market for a $400,000-home, and you wait a year, you could be paying $20,000 to $40,000 more. Normally the problem of low inventory would be fixed by the construction of new homes. But here in Atlanta, there is a slight problem: labor. As mentioned before, unemployment is historically very low. Homebuilders are having trouble finding skilled labor to do the work. This is driving up costs of new homes because builders have to pay more to lure subcontractors away from other projects. But let us all keep in mind that these are good problems to have. They are symptoms of a successful local economy. That said, the low-inventory problem does not look like it will be solved anytime too soon, so values will likely continue to go up. Geoff Smith gsmith@lendtheway.com 770-674-1433 Personal: NMLS#104587 Business: NMLS#70876 *The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of Assurance Financial Group
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United Way honors Bill Norman for charitable contributions Restaurant owner has raised millions for local charities By JORDAN MEAKER news@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— Past and present board members of United Way of Forsyth County honored local restaurant owner Bill Norman for his contributions and the community as a whole in a celebration held at Norman’s Landing on June 6. Norman’s seafood restaurant will close on June 18 after 22 years in business. Board members and their families signed a picture frame, a gift to thank Norman for his contributions, and mingled inside the restaurant, sharing laughs and memories from over the years with Norman. Since Norman’s Landing first opened its doors, the restaurant has been dedicated to giving back to the community. Norman often talks about having a “big peanut-butter heart,” which is evident in the large amount of money he’s raised for local charities —
Past and present board members of United Way of Forsyth County gathered at Norman’s Landing on June 6 to honor Bill Norman for his charitable contributions. $2.45 million over 22 years. “It just goes in part with loving to spoil people in the restaurant business, and I like to take care of people that are not as fortunate or not as lucky,” Norman said. “That’s why we built the restaurant.” Norman said he has a special connection to United Way, an organization devoted to providing services for those in need. “This is my favorite charity out of the hundreds of charities that we’ve
done things for,” Norman said. “United Way helps out 10-15 different charities, and the people have always been great. I’ve always enjoyed working with them.” Throughout the years, Norman has hosted golf and ping pong tournaments for United Way, as well as helped to raise awareness of the charity’s projects and activities. United Way board member Ruth Goode spoke about Norman’s commitment to helping others. “He’s served on our board, he has
BUSINESSBRIEFS keeping Alpharetta awesome in all that we do.” “The Board of Directors, as individuals, are genuine assets who bring unique and valuable skill sets to the hospitality industry in Alpharetta,” said Janet Rodgers, President and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Their support has been and will continue to be a critical component to our ongoing success in pursuit of marketing and promoting Alpharetta as an exceptional destination for visitors. Together, we will continue to make Alpharetta awesome.”
New Chairman of the Board Keith Hensley stands next to Janet Rodgers, President and CEO of the Alpharetta CVB.
New Alpharetta CVB Chairman of the Board named ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau announced June 6 its new Chairman of the Board during it 2016-2017 fiscal year Annual Meeting at The Metropolitan Club in Alpharetta. During the meeting, Keith Hensley, General Manager of Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta was inducted as the 2017-2018 Chairman of the Board for the bureau’s upcoming fiscal year. “I graciously accept my new role as Chairman of the Alpharetta CVB Board of Directors. I am looking forward to continuing our work as a team of
volunteered, been with many different committees,” Goode said. “And not just us — he has served all of the non-profits so well here.” Norman will continue giving back to the community on June 19 by hosting a “Last Supper” to commemorate the closing of the restaurant. Half of the sales from The Last Supper will go to benefit four churches in Forsyth County. After the restaurant closes its doors, Norman is looking forward to taking some time off and going on vacation with his family. “For the last 22 years, I’ve been everything I could be to everybody. I’ve got to do something for me right now,” Norman said. But fans of Norman’s cooking should keep an eye out — he might be back soon with another restaurant. “I’ve got to take six months off for me, and then I might do another restaurant after that,” Norman said. For now, community members are expressing appreciation for Norman’s generosity. “We’re so sorry to see him close. We’re definitely going to miss him,” Goode said.
Garrett joins Arthritis and Total Joint Specialists ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Arthritis & Total Joint Specialists recently announced the addition of Dr. Jeffrey P. Garrett to its Alpharetta and Cumming locations. Garrett, a board-certified physician in orthopedic surgery, specializes in hip and knee replacements, as well as orthopedic trauma care. He brings over a decade of diverse DR. GARRETT experience, including previous service as a clinical faculty member for orthopedic trauma at the Atlanta Medical Center Orthopaedic Residency Program. For faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays, Garrett said he uses the minimally-invasive direct anterior approach for total hip replacements. In addition, Dr. Garrett provides expertise in
acute fracture and reconstructive surgery, total knee replacement and minimally-invasive MAKOplasty robotic joint replacement procedures.
Appen Media Group welcomes summer intern ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Appen Media Group welcomes a new summer intern to the newsroom. Jordan Meaker joins three other interns who will work until the end of the summer covering a range of content topics, from government to community news, and everything in between. From Suwanee, Meaker is a MEAKER rising sophomore at the University of Georgia studying journalism and international affairs. She is excited to know her community better and dive deeper into local issues that impact people on a daily basis. She’s also hoping to improve photography skills while seeing how a professional newsroom operates. “Appen is the perfect newspaper for this because it covers several different communities that are really close to where I live,” Meaker said. “I’ll be able to learn about how a newsroom works while learning more about my local area at the same time.” She joins Natasha Roy, of Milton, Jack Waylock, of Alpharetta, and Julia Sanders, of Cumming who will cover local news this summer.
BUSINESSPOSTS
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 19
Forsyth County touts economic development plan Project establishes long term, interim strategy By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is keeping an eye on its economic development by planning for the future. James McCoy, president of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, presented an economic development plan to the County Commission June 6 calling for renewed efforts for commercial growth. “As everyone probably knows, the huge issue for our community is the commercial portion of our tax digest,” McCoy said. “When [the chamber] started an economic development department in 2005, it helped reverse the trend of the shrinking commercial portion of the tax digest.” Local governments depend on some measure of commercial growth to help offset the tax burden levied on homeowners. In 2005, the county’s tax digest – taxable property – consisted of 81 percent residential and 19 percent commercial. Ten years later, the commercial portion of the digest rose to 28 percent.
“I think we all agree this curve is not nearly sharp enough,” McCoy said. “What we’ve done is not going to get us to where we need to be.” The county’s investment into economic development has been good, McCoy said. For every $1 of public funds invested in the chamber’s current economic development activities, $358 was added back to the county’s tax digest. “That’s new capital investment coming back to this community,” McCoy said. The chamber’s economic blueprint was based on information collected by a stakeholder group county commis-
sioners established in February. The group was asked to develop an interim economic development plan, provide recommendations on creating a new five-year plan and provide recommendations on the economic development tool box. McCoy said they heard frequently a desire for higher paying jobs in low impact positions. By 2025, the group anticipates the county will have added 5,000 new jobs. If approved by county commissioners, the group’s five-year economic development plan – still in the works – will be incorporated into the county’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. McCoy said the stakeholders recommend that the plan be proactive, focused, measurable and accountability-driven. The planning process should be transparent, inclusive and engaging, he said. The plan will be drafted and approved sometime in September 2018. The plan will include: Deliverables of the plan include: • Establishing meaningful dialogue with community stakeholders, citizens and businesses • Weekly progress updates • Identification of goals and objectives • Community analysis of strengths,
As everyone probably knows, the huge issue for our community is the commercial portion of our tax digest.” JAMES MCCOY Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce President
weaknesses, opportunities and threats • Economic opportunity analysis • Competitive analysis • Target market identification and analysis • Marketing plan • Measurable deliverables and outcomes • Recommendations for process updates and changes • Budget and funding recommendations County commissioners said they will revisit the topic again in July.
ATTENTION
Lower Back Pain and Sciatica Suffers Comprehensive Treatment of Foot & Ankle Pain
FREE WORKSHOP Saturday, June 24th at 10:00am • Do you suffer with back pain or leg pain when you stand or walk? • Do you have pain when you sit for long periods of time? • Do you experience pain numbness or tingling into your hip, groin or down your leg? If you answered YES to any of the above questions then the Lower Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop may be a life changing event for you! Register today and call: 770.622.5344 or visit: johnscreekpt.com/backworkshop Due to the interactive nature of this workshop, we are limiting attendance to 20 spots. We look forward to hearing from you! Johns Creek Physical Therapy 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite H, Suwanee, GA 30024 Presented by: Marc C. Stewart, PT
for
Children, Adolescents & Adults Laser treatments for fungus, warts... • Hammertoes • Broken Bones / Fractures • Corns • Calluses • Flat Feet • Heel Spurs • Warts
• Tendonitis • Ulcers • Arthritis • Sprains / Strains • Neuroma • Rashes • Bunions • Arch Pain
We accept Medicare, Medicaid and most Insurance Plans. Same day appointments available. Office Hours: Mon. – Fri.
770-418-0456 | atlpod.com 4385 Johns Creek Pkwy, Ste 200 Johns Creek, GA 30024
• Diabetic Shoes • Custom Orthotics • Ingrown Toe Nails • Athletes Feet • Sports Injuries
Rupal P. Gupta DPM, FACFAS
• Diabetic Foot Problems • Foot Infections • Wound Care • Ankle/Foot Injuries
Jill K. Stepnicka Jalpa Patel DPM, FACFAS DPM
20 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
CALENDAR FREE TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANCE
ADOPT-A-SENIOR
Help put a smile on a senior’s face this Father’s Day by volunteering to serve meals and give gifts. Many senior citizens in nursing homes are left alone during the holidays. Help by giving them company during a Father’s Day Party Saturday, June 17, 11:15 a.m. at the Roswell Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 1109 Green St., Roswell. A $20 donation is requested but not required. For more information, visit adoptasenior.net. Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton. com/Calendar.
EVENTS: ART WORKSHOP
What: Participate in a painting class for everyone, regardless of experience. When: Saturday, June 17, 9:30 a.m. Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov/parkplace
MAGNOLIA BALL
What: Join the Friends of Bulloch Hall for a gala event featuring an evening of cocktails, live and silent auctions, dinner and dancing. The event will fundraise for the restoration of “Orchard Hill.” When: Saturday, June 17, 7 p.m. Where: Dunwoody Country Club, 1600 Dunwoody Club Drive, Atlanta Cost: $150 per person More info: bullochhall.org or 770-9921731 ext. 2
RADKIDS CLASS
What: Children ages 7-12 can join the weeklong personal empowerment and safety education training session held by the Johns Creek Police Department. Registration required. When: Monday, June 19 – Friday, June 23, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Where: Johns Creek Police Headquarters, 11445 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek Cost: $25 More info: radkids.org or johnscreekga. gov
AARP DRIVER SAFETY
What: This six-hour classroom course provides defensive driving techniques and strategies as well as an overview of current Georgia driving laws. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. When: Tuesday, June 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek Cost: $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members More info: johnscreekga.gov/parkplace
COOKING CLASS AT BARRINGTON HALL
What: Join Chef Wendy Gay for a summer grilling-themed cooking class. Reservations required. When: Tuesday, June 20, 6:30 p.m.9:30 p.m. Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell Cost: $50 per person, per class More info: roswellgov.com or 770-6403855
POETRY GROUP
What: For adults and students age 10 and older, join the Johns Creek Poetry Group for group participating, writing exercises and handouts by published poet Jill Jennings. Bring 10 copies of your work to share. When: Saturday, June 17, 10:15 a.m.12:45 p.m. Where: Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info: afpls.org
BRAINSPOTTING TALK
What: Cynthia Schwartzberg will come to NAMI to speak on Brainspotting, a brain/body based therapy, and how it can help to balance and overcome stress, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and other challenges. When: Tuesday, June 20, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Where: United Way, 240 Elm Street, Cumming More info: northfulton.com
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS
What: Bring your floats and lounge in the pool while watching “Secret Life of Pets” on the big screen. Concessions will be available for sale. When: Tuesday, June 20, 7:30 p.m. Where: Roswell Area Park Pool, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell Cost: $3 for residents, $5 for nonresidents More info: roswellgov.com
What: Free tutoring will be provided by student volunteers. Please RSVP to attend so volunteers are prepared accordingly. When: Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov/parkplace
CIRCLE OF SECURITY – PARENTING
JOHNS CREEK FARMERS MARKET
What: Held at the Newtown Park Amphitheater, each market features more than 25 local farmers and vendors with organic and/or sustainable foods and produce. When: Saturdays through Aug. 26 Where: 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov
What: Learn about the ins and outs of parenting and how to identify what your child needs with registered facilitator EveLyn Wedge. Parents of children of all ages are invited. When: Wednesday, June 21, 6:30-9 p.m. Where: 300 Colonial Parkway, Suite 100, Roswell More info and registration: evelynwedge@gmail.com or 678-2506697
ROSWELL FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
BIRDIES FOR THE BLIND
SUMMEROUR HOUSE CONCERT
FARMERS MARKETS, FOOD TRUCKS:
“THE COMICAL ADVENTURES OF OLD MOTHER HUBBARD”
What: Experience an evening of awareness, adventure and inspiration with special guest speakers, silent auction and a preview of the Blind Endeavors “50 Schools / 50 States Campaign.” When: Thursday, June 22, 6 p.m. Where: The Standard Club, 6230 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $250 More info: blindendeavors.org/birdies
ALPHARETTA FOOD TRUCK ALLEY
What: Alpharetta’s weekly gathering returns on Old Roswell Street with rotating food trucks and music each week. Six to eight food trucks from the Atlanta area will come out to help kick off the weekend early. When: Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Where: Old Roswell Street in Alpharetta’s historic district More info: awesomealpharetta.com
ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET
What: The Alpharetta Farmers Market features fruits, vegetables, natural meats, fresh flowers and herbs, and a variety of home goods. When: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., through Oct. 29 Where: Old Canton Street in downtown Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us
CUMMING FARMERS MARKET
What: Come by for a chance to enjoy locally produced vegetables, meat, baked goods, honey, soaps, flowers, art, woodworking and more. When: Wednesday and Saturdays, 6:30-10:30 a.m., through Sept. 30 Where: Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road More info: cummingfarmersmarket.com
What: The Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market offers fresh, local farm, ranch and artisan foods direct from producers, and much more. When: Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon., through October Where: Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St. More info: roswellfam.com
MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: What: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve Presents the Summerour House Concert series. This intimate concert setting uniquely suits the local musicians who visit. When: Saturday, June 17, 7 p.m. Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek Cost: $18 More info: johnscreekga.gov
What: Paul Mesner Puppets brings the traditional story of Old Mother Hubbard to life. The story unfolds as a comic poem centered on the love between a dog and his master. When: June 12-17, times vary. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: $5 individual tickets, $30 summer pass More info: roswellpuppets.com
LUKE BRYAN
What: “Huntin’, Fishin’, and Lovin’ Every Day Tour” with Brett Eldredge and Lauren Alaina. When: June 15-17, doors open at 6 p.m., concert at 7 p.m. Where: Verizon Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta Cost: Tickets start at $26 More info and tickets: vzwamp.com
“RED HOT & COLE”
What: This two-act revue features 25 songs and traces Cole Porter’s career from Indiana to the world stages of New York, London, Paris and Venice. When: June 1-18, times vary Where: Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: Tickets start at $25 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com
SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: HEATHER LUND
What: Heather Lund will exhibit her art at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center through July. Her light-hearted works are characterized with a mix of watercolor, pen and ink, acrylic and screen printing. When: June 1-July 31, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: heatherlund.format.com or roswellgov.com
LIBRARY EVENTS: FREE TEEN YOGA CLASSES
What: Teens are invited to relax by going to a yoga class at the Milton Library. The class is free and open to the public. When: Fridays, through Aug. 11, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: liane.wagner@ fultoncountyga.gov
JOHNS CREEK POETRY GROUP
What: Adults and students age 10 and older are invited to join the Johns Creek Poetry Group for group participating, writing exercises and handouts by published poet Jill Jennings. When: Saturday, June 17, 10:15 a.m.12:45 p.m. Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Alpharetta More info: karen.swenson@ fultoncountyga.gov or 770-360-8820
TRENDS IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
What: The public is invited to join Roswell Library as they discuss the major trends affecting students in the college admissions process. When: Saturday, June 17, 1-2 p.m. Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: 770-640-3075
JANE AUSTEN BOOK CLUB
What: Jane Austen fans are invited to the Jane Austen Book Club. To celebrate Jane Austens’ 200th anniversary, they will be reading all six of Jane Austens’ novels throughout the year. When: Saturday, June 17, 2-3 p.m. Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Alpharetta More info: laura.hoefener@ fultoncountyga.gov
PLANTING AN HERB GARDEN WITH THE UGA EXTENSION
What: Children are invited to come learn about how to build a better garden. The class is presented by the UGA Extension Program. Ages 8-11. Registration required. When: Wednesday, June 21, 1-2 p.m. Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Alpharetta More info: laura.hoefener@ fultoncountyga.gov or 770-360-8820
CALENDAR
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 21
To the top! Here near the Big City, we sometimes think that we have to go north to the mountains to find a mountain worth climbing. But if you’re looking for a summit hike that’s rewardSTEVE HUDSON ing and just chalGet Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net lenging enough, you may not need to look any farther than Kennesaw Mountain. Kennesaw Mountain, with a summit elevation of 1,808 feet, is the centerpiece of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. The mountaintop, and the area around it, played a key role during the Civil War in the Battle for Atlanta in June of 1864, standing as one of the last real obstacles between the Union army and its target, Atlanta. The resulting confrontation between the Union forces (under the direction of Gen. William T. Sherman) and the Confederate defenders (led by Confederate General Joseph E. Johnson) was intense and bloody – but in the end it did not keep Sherman from taking Atlanta. As summits go, 1,808 feet may not sound like a lot. But the hike to the top of Kennesaw Mountain takes you from about 1,144 feet to 1,808 feet in roughly a mile of hiking. That’s an elevation change of almost 700 feet on a trail with an average uphill grade of about 15 percent -- more than enough to get the ol’ cardio rate up a bit, to be sure. Most hikes to the Kennesaw Mountain summit begin at the park’s visitor center, where you can learn about the mountain and its role in Civil War history. That’s where I started mine on a hot, muggy afternoon just the other day. The trail itself starts outside the visitor center, near an informational kiosk. If it’s a pretty weekend day, expect to have lots of company on your hike. There will be serious hikers with serious boots and serious walking sticks. There will be young parents with kids in tow – or maybe with babies in backpack carriers. There will be families with dogs, groups of scouts and those who just want to enjoy a little bit of outdoor recreation. If you get the sense that the trail to the summit might be crowded, then you will be right. Then you begin the climb. As the trail climbs ever upward,
you’ll pass numerous markers pointing out significant historical locations. At several points, gun emplacements give you an acute sense of the history of the place – and if you let your imagination go, it’s not hard to envision what the battle must have been like. How did the defenders lug cannon, heavy muskets, lead bullets and all the other things of war up the mountainside? How did they dig out earthworks and rifle trenches? How did they fell trees to create an all but impenetrable tangle on the hillside below? That summer was a hot and rainy one, historians say, and the troops of both sides battled mud and heat as much as they battled each other. While pondering such things, you may come to appreciate the many benches that have been placed along the route to the top. I know that I stopped at several of them…but only to make notes or check the camera, of course! Eventually (and it really doesn’t take too long) you’ll reach the summit. There, overlooks give you an idea of what the troops saw. Looking out toward Atlanta, for example, you’re gazing at the reason for this battle – Atlanta, a few miles in the distance. The defenders were trying the protect it; the attackers were bound for it and found Kennesaw Mountain in their way. The very summit of the mountain boasts a small observation area with unobstructed views. You’ll want to linger there for a while. If you’re lucky, there will be a breeze to cool you off from your exertions. And then… After summiting the mountain, most folks turn around and backtrack down the trail to return to where they began. However, others continue on. As it turns out, the summit trail is actually the first leg of a loop (with a
length of roughly six miles) which carries you even further into history…first to Little Kennesaw Mountain’s summit (elevation 1,610), and then to Pigeon Hill (elevation 1,247) and then down toward Burnt Hickory Road. Some of this is tough hiking, resembling rock hopping and root jumping as much as anything as you make your way up or down across rough and tricky terrain. This is where your knees may ask you just what you had in mind when you started this grand adventure. At the lower end of the loop, near Burnt Hickory Road, a connector trail descends to the road. Just across the road there’s a water fountain (the first water since you left the visitor’s center) where you can refill your water bottle. Then, to complete the loop, hike back up the connector trail and pick up the Camp Brumby Trail, which follows an old gravel roadbed for not quite three miles to take you back to the visitor center. This final leg is relatively easy, wrapping you in easy walking that rests the body and the mind. And if you listen, you might hear a distant rumble…thunder? Or perhaps it’s the long-reverberating sound of cannon fire? Wars are like that sometimes. The echoes tend to hang around for a long, long time. Summer is a great time to enjoy some hiking, and Steve Hudson’s book HIKING THE HOOCH is just the thing to help you discover some great hiking along the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta. HIKING THE HOOCH is available from local outfitters and on Amazon, and signed copies are available direct from the author at www. chattahoocheemedia. com.
22 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
SCHOOLS
Forsyth County’s 2017 valedictorians FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— Becoming valedictorian in high school is a difficult feat. High school valedictorians have to work hard all four years to gain the distinction. We asked the 2017 valedictorians from Forsyth Central, Forsyth Virtual Academy, North Forsyth, West Forsyth, Lambert and South Forsyth high school about their life, goals and dreams.
Teresa Rose McKenna — Forsyth Central High What college are you going to? I will be at Georgia Tech in the fall. Why did you pick that college? I picked that college because it is one of the top colleges in the country for engineerMcKENNA ing, I like the atmosphere there, and I can get in-state tuition and the Zell Miller scholarship for going there. What is your major/minor? My major will be environmental engineering. What do you plan to do this summer? My summer will consist of a few family vacations to see my grandparents and to the beach, and just hanging out with friends. What after school activities were you involved in? In high school, I was involved with my school competition dance team, dance classes, VEX robotics, technology student association, beta club, national honor society, national English honor society, and national technical honor society. What motivated you to work hard in high school? My family was definitely one of my biggest motivators in high school. I think they saw the potential in me from a young age and learned that if they expected something from me that I’d find a way to do it. Plus, I’ve always looked up to my mom and my grandma, and they were both salutatorian of their high school classes, so they set the bar high for following in their footsteps. What is your dream job? My dream job would be working on renewable energy, and making it more efficient, more widespread, and cheaper. What is your favorite high school memory? I’ve had a lot of great high school memories, and I don’t know if I could choose just one. It meant a lot when my robotics team qualified for the world championships, because it took a lot of hard work to get there, and we didn’t know if
we’d do it. It also meant a lot when all my fellow STEM program members and I got to graduate in our red robes. We put in so much time and effort to stay in the STEM program for four years, and really became a family during that time, so to see all our hard work recognized was meaningful to me. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? Mr. Schuyler, my AP biology teacher, made a big impact on me by seeing my potential and believing in me early on in my high school career. He helped me in so many ways, from giving me a heads up about college to writing me letters of recommendation. Plus, he was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had because he taught not only the material but he also taught how to learn.
there is not a lot of interaction with the teachers. That being said, a few teachers did have an impact — Mr. David Hicks and Mr. Woody VanTreek with their personal notes of interest and feedback on assignments and Ms. Shannon Anderson-Rush with her excellent online teaching strategies from class schedule organization to class content and communication. And, I would say my mom had the biggest educational impact on me, as she was always there to help when I got stuck on something or had a question, be it organizing an essay in world history or solving an integral in calculus.
Joey Hampton — Forsyth Virtual Academy
What college are you going to? I will be attending the University of Georgia Honors College. Why did you pick that college? I visited my options a few times to see where I felt the most at home. BARRONTON I had a difficult time because I loved all of my options, but when I got my UGA acceptance, I knew that UGA was my home. I wanted to go there as a little kid, and when I got in, I knew in my heart that was where I was supposed to go. What is your major/minor? I will be majoring in risk management and insurance. What do you plan to do this summer? This summer I am traveling a lot, spending time with my close friends before college and rereading Harry Potter. What after-school activities were you involved in? I was involved in several clubs, such as Y club, book club, English National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Honor Society, Math Team and Mu Alpha Theta. I also was a member of the Teen Advisory Board at the Cumming library, and I worked a part-time job at Edible Arrangements. What motivated you to work hard in high school? I decided I wanted to be valedictorian in the fifth grade, so working hard was inevitable if I wanted that dream to come true. I also have always cared a lot about my grades and academic success, and I wanted to have a successful high school career whether I ended up being valedictorian or not. What is your dream job? My
What college are you going to? University of Georgia Why did you pick that college? The Terry College of Business is a highly ranked business school, and I like the atmosphere of HAMPTON Athens. What is your major/minor? Business administration with particular interest in entrepreneurship What do you plan to do this summer? Complete my Eagle Scout construction project at a local church, work in my family business, attend UGA campus activities and travel. What after-school activities were you involved in? Working in my family’s business, Boy Scouts, and competitive bowling. What motivated you to work hard in high school? First of all the cliche answer of obtaining knowledge, but also the edge that good grades provide in the college application process and my family — my mom and sister were both valedictorians. What is your dream job? Owning my own small business, with good employees in place, that affords me a flexible schedule and time to travel. What is your favorite high school memory? Senior Spring Break boating around the British Virgin Islands with a long-time friend and my parents. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? This is one area that virtual school is in need of improvement as
Maggie Barronton — North Forsyth High
dream job is to be an actuary. I have always loved math and its applications, and actuarial science is a field that will allow me to use math, work with people and maybe even travel a bit. What is your favorite high school memory? I have a lot of fond memories from high school because I was blessed to have so many wonderful friends and teachers, but my favorite memory overall is probably from a football game. I always loved Friday night football because that was the one night I could just take the night off and have fun with my friends, but this past year in particular, we played Pickens County High School. It was such a close game and we thought we couldn’t come back, but to everyone’s surprise, we got a touchdown and won the game! Everyone was screaming and hugging, and all of us students were like a big, happy family. In that moment, I realized how happy I was to be a North Forsyth Raider. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? Honestly, all of my teachers had a big impact on me, but I think the teacher who impacted my life the most was Mr. Fisher, my AP statistics teacher. I took that class sophomore year and fell in love with the subject, and that’s when I decided to look into actuarial science. Also, Mrs. Swafford, my AP calculus teacher, had a big impact on my life because she encouraged my love of mathematics on a daily basis and supported my dreams. Not to mention the fact that she is the most phenomenal teacher, and I will forever remember her for teaching me my favorite type of math.
Brady Baskette — West Forsyth High What college are you going to? University of Georgia Why did you pick that college? I chose this school because I know that I want to pursue a career in the medical field as a cardiothoracic surgeon. At BASKETTE UGA, I will be provided with an education that would allow me to follow down this path. What is your major/minor? My major is biology. What do you plan to do this summer? This summer I plan to continue shadowing with a general sur-
SCHOOLS
ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 15, 2017 | 23
tell about their plans after graduation geon. I enjoy this because it allows me to see what may be in store for me. What after school activities were you involved in? I was involved in multiple different honor societies (National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Social Studies National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta), Model United Nations, Academic Bowl and math team. What motivated you to work hard in high school? I was motivated by my competitive nature. I did not like to be outperformed, and this encouraged me to work harder. What is your dream job? My dream job is to work as a cardiothoracic surgeon. What is your favorite high school memory? My favorite high school memory is from my 11th grade AP English language class. I had the most energetic teacher who was absolutely obsessed with music (especially Bob Dylan). As a result, we spent the last couple weeks in that class on a unit covering Bob Dylan and other similar artists. It was such a great end to that amazing class. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? Most of my teachers left some impact on me, but the one that left the greatest was by far my 11th grade AP language teacher Michael Aderhold. Before his class I was just stumbling along in my English classes doing my work, but not really gaining much or participating often. He was one of the few teachers who completely changed my views on a subject. The year I spent in his class was most likely my most favorite time in high school, and this is because he made me want to participate in discussion.
Elynna Chang — Lambert High What college are you going to? I will be attending Harvard College in the fall. Why did you pick that college? Well, for starters as soon as I checked in for Visitas (the Harvard admitted students visit CHANG weekend) and started exploring the campus, it just clicked in my head that this is where I belonged. And as I stayed longer, meeting fellow admitted students, touring the campus, speaking with professors and sitting in on classes, I came to love the atmo-
sphere more and more. I also finally decided on Harvard primarily because of the academic opportunities offered and its diversity of thought and people. What is your major/minor? As of now my intended major is biomedical engineering, but that may change as I explore the various courses offered at Harvard. What do you plan to do this summer? I will be interning at iGEM headquarters in July, and then getting ready to start classes in the fall. In the meantime, I’m taking a break and meeting up with friends before we all leave. What after-school activities were you involved in? I’m the founder and president of Biology Olympiad. I also helped to re-establish AGLOA at Lambert. I was also the vice-president of Debate Team and the vice-president of Biotechnology Club. I am also involved in iGEM, HOSA, TSA, Science Olympiad, Compass Ambassadors, Key Club, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Rho Kappa (Social Studies National Honor Society), National English Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society and Beta Club. I also pursued art and piano, in which I had the honor of performing at Carnegie Hall. What motivated you to work hard in high school? I welcome competition, and more than anything I just wanted to see how far I could go if I pushed my limits. Also, there were just so many things I wanted to do! There’s hardly anything that I’m not interested in, so I just ended up being incredibly busy with all my commitments. What is your dream job? I don’t quite have a dream job, but I do know that whatever my occupation is in the future, I want to be able to help people with my skills. Working with Doctors Without Borders has always been something I wanted to do, but I don’t really know how I will go about carrying that out yet. What is your favorite high school memory? My favorite high school memory was traveling with my iGEM team to Boston to participate in the International Giant Jamboree. What I loved the most was being able to meet teams from all over the world — from Germany to China to Australia — and discuss synthetic biology. Every year that we go, I never fail to be amazed by the sheer brilliance of all the projects, from collaborating with
NASA in extraterrestrial exploration, to novel methods of curing cataracts, to creating new manners of protein tagging and elucidating metabolic pathways. It›s a huge think tank that pushes the brink of biological innovation. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? Yes! So many. First would be Mrs. Standeven, who introduced to me the world of biotechnology and encouraged me to pursue biomedical engineering. She mentored me all four years of high school as our adviser for iGEM, which is also one of the extracurricular activities I hold incredibly close to my heart. I honestly don’t think I could have come this far without Mrs. Standeven’s unwavering support for all my endeavors, as well as her dedication to iGEM. Mrs. Cantrell, who was my Honors Biology teacher and also our iGEM adviser, was instrumental in the foundation of my academic pursuits, as she instilled in me my current love for biology. I admire Mrs. Cantrell greatly, and she has been for me a critical figure of physical and emotional support at my darkest moments. And finally I’d like to mention Mr. VanTreek, who was my 10th grade honors lit and AP lit teacher. I can definitively say that he helped shape my way of thinking and the way I view the world through frequent dynamic classroom discussions. He also frequently played the devil’s advocate for a whole range of topics, and taught me to consider all sides of a situation before jumping to conclusions. I think that I have become a better person as a result of Mr. VanTreek.
Ethan Shen — South Forsyth High What college are you going to? Duke University Why did you pick that college? I chose Duke not only for its strong finance program but also because the school has a strong academic background SHEN which is paired up with a dynamic sports culture. It is also pretty close to home, which I like. What are you majoring in? Minor? I plan to double major in math and finance, with potentially a minor in music. Do you have any summer plans? I am going to China for a month to visit relatives and also visit a
few cities and tourist sites that I have not been to, like the Terracotta Army. What after-school activities were you involved in? In school, I was involved in Student Government Association, National Honors Society, HOSA and Mu Alpha Theta. My main after-school activity was piano, and most of my free time revolved around the piano. I was in ASYO (Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra) 11th grade, part of the praise team at my church from 9-11th grades and the praise team leader in 12th grade. I also taught one of my neighbors piano for three years. What motivated you to work hard in high school? My motivation came internally and externally, but mainly I pushed myself to work hard. I wanted a better future for myself, and I knew that hard work was the only way for me to achieve my goals and aspirations. What is your favorite high school memory? My favorite high school memory was senior prom. It was super cool seeing all my friends dressed up and having a good time. Did any of your teachers have a big impact on you? Who and how? I had two teachers that have profoundly impacted me. Ms. Sikes, who was my AP statistics and AB/BC teacher, and Mr. Reynolds, my IB lit teacher. I took stat as a freshman, and I was really intimidated by my classmates, who were mainly upperclassmen. She made me feel welcome and was always available in the mornings when I had last-minute questions, even if she was busy. She also was the Mu Alpha Theta sponsor, and it was wonderful getting to work with her at the SFHS middle school math tournament and also when we had to plan monthly meetings. Mr. Reynolds ignited my passion for literature, especially poetry. Poetry was something I always struggled with, but he made it interesting and engaging. The class was also full of discussions (on novels we read, current issues, politics, etc), and he would always try to play devil’s advocate. By doing so, many of us would reconsider our original opinions regarding a specific statement or problem, creating more stimulating and engaging conversation.
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COMMUNITY
Forsyth robotics teams place in international competition FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — South Forsyth High School’s robotics team recently placed first in its subdivision during the FIRST Robotics World Competition championships in Houston, Texas. The subdivision was made of 68 teams, and the team placed fifth overall out of 400 teams in the competition. Forsyth Central High School placed 17th in the Carver Division in the world competition. This division was the most challenging at the world competition, with an average match score 10 points higher than the other five divisions. The team’s robot was in the top 10 robots of the Carver Division during eliminations, marking the first time any Forsyth County team has ever actively played in the world championship elimination rounds. For more information on the FIRST Robotics World Competition, visit firstchampionship.org/houston-home.
CONSTRUCTION:
Portions of Martin Road to temporarily close FORSYTH COUNTY, Georgia — A portion of Martin Rd., located in northern Forsyth County, will be temporarily closed to through traffic beginning June 12. The closure will allow for reconstruction of the intersection at Martin Road and Ga. 9. The road is expected to re-open to through traffic on or before Aug. 18, weather permitting.
Holbrook Road closed due to construction FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— Holbrook Road, at the intersection of Holbrook Road and Burnt Bridge Road, located in northeast Forsyth County, will be temporarily closed to through traffic beginning Monday, June 12. The closure will allow for the construction of a roundabout. The road will be closed for approximately 45 days.
GOVERNMENT:
Senate Bill 109 signed into Georgia law ATLANTA – On Monday, May 8, Gov. Nathan Deal signed a law sponsored by Cumming Sen. Michael Williams that aims to help EMS personnel. Senate Bill 109 establishes the Recognition of Emergency Medical Services Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact. This compact creates interstate movement of EMS personnel and authorizes state EMS offices to legally recognize EMS personnel licensed in
South Forsyth High School’s robotics team placed first in its subdivision at the FIRST Robotics Competition championships.
another state that is a member of the compact. Under the Senate Bill 109, the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice is also established. Additionally, this legislation creates the Nurse Licensure Compact and the Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators. For additional information on Senate Bill 109, visit bit.ly/2pXF8v2.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, and currently serves on the Transportation Plan Steering Committee.
Marc Morris announces campaign for District 26
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — During June and July, United Way of Forsyth County will “Stuff the Bus” with school supplies for students in need. Donations will go to Forsyth County Schools and other local organizations serving local students. In its first year, a modest 3,000 school supplies were collected and distributed through Forsyth County School social workers and The Place of Forsyth County. Since then, approximately 230,000 school supply items have been collected and distributed to Forsyth County students giving them the supplies they needed to start the school year off on the right track. School supplies may be dropped off at the United Way Office located at 240 Elm St., Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.5 p.m. For more information, contact the United Way office at 770-781-4110.
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Local businessman and U.S. Navy veteran Marc Morris announced that he would run for Georgia House of Representatives District 26 on May 1 as a Republican. MORRIS Current District 26 Rep. Geoff Duncan said that he intends to campaign for Lt. Governor.
Greg Dolezal announces campaign for District 27 FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Greg Dolezal announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination for State Senate District 27 June 5, calling for conservative, resultsdriven leadership. In 2013, Dolezal DOLEZAL launched FixForsythTraffic.com to help ensure local infrastructure was being prioritized to accommodate growth. Dolezal is a past member of the Forsyth County Planning Commission, Impact Fee Committee,
COMMUNITY:
United Way stuffs the bus
Mary Negron will speak at Sawnee Arts meeting CUMMING, Ga. — The speaker for the Sawnee Association of the Arts’s monthly meeting at 6 p.m. on June 26 will be artist Mary Negron. Negron is a self-taught award winning artist and instructor who has lived in Connecticut, Boston, New York and now Cumming. Negron is a member of the Sawnee Association of the Arts, the Georgia Arts League, the Atlanta
Arts Center and the Booth Western Museum. For more information, visit sawneeart.org or 770-889-1072.
Flood hazard maps available at open house FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The public is invited to view Forsyth County’s recently revised flood risk information and flood hazard maps on Thursday, June 22, from 5—7 p.m., at an open house held in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, located at the County Administration Building, 110 E. Main Street, Suite 220, in Cumming. Attendees will be able to view the preliminary maps to see how their flood risk may have changed, learn how that may affect building and flood insurance requirements and explore their options following the open house. In addition to the open house, the maps can be viewed now at the Forsyth County Department of Engineering, located in the County Administration Building, located at 110 E. Main Street, Suite 120, in Cumming. For more information and to locate a home’s flood risk, visit GeorgiaDFIRM.com.
Forsyth County annual reports now available FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— The 2016 Forsyth County Annual Report and 2016 Forsyth County Fire Department Annual Report are now available. Both annual reports provide information on recent projects, accomplishments and statistics. The 2016 Forsyth County Annual Report includes county government projects and progress in 2016, highlights of the year and recent financial data. Visit forsythco.comn to view both publications online.
SPORTS
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Year in review: What we learned in the 2016-17 athletics year By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com
North Fulton still the best area for tennis Since the GHSA began recognizing tennis as a state championship sport in 1978 for boys and 1980 for girls, North Fulton has won 39 state championships in the sport. This year included two more, when the Northview boys and Cambridge girls won Class AAAAAA titles. North Fulton teams battled one another for supremacy late in the state tournament. The girls 6A state tournament featured an all North Fulton final four when Cambridge, Northview, Alpharetta and Chattahoochee all made semifinal berths. Three North Fulton teams, Chattahoochee, Johns Creek and eventual state champs Northview, all made final four appearances in the boys 6A tournament. The St. Francis girls team and Milton boys also made semifinals appearances in their respective classification.
Cambridge has no issue moving up classification Moving up in classification can be daunting. Teams are forced to compete against new, and typically, higher quality opponents. Witness Forsyth Central, which made just two state playoff appearances in team sports this year after moving up from the same region as Cambridge.
But Cambridge excelled in its new classification this season, capturing two state championships, two state runner-up finishes and loads of deep playoff runs. The girls programs captured the Director’s Cup and the Bears finished third overall in the standings.
Roswell area has become a football hotbed For the past two seasons, four teams located within about a mile of one another have made trips to the football state championship. Roswell, Fellowship Christian and Blessed Trinity have each made state championship appearances in the last two seasons. Roswell and Fellowship Christian both finished as state runner-up this season after falling in overtime in their respective state title games. Roswell and Blessed Trinity placed as state runner-up in their classification in 2015.
Lambert has athletic success all-around, again A good measure of a school’s allaround athletic performance can be deduced with its ranking in the Director’s Cup, and for the third straight year, Lambert has proven to be the top athletics school in the top classification. It certainly helps Lambert’s standing that it competes in 23 of a possible 25 sports, but it is not just the number of
DEATH NOTICES
Anna Gieger, 82, of Roswell, passed away May 28, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Paul Ceresini, 48, of Cumming, passed away May 31, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Aurella Griffin, of Alpharetta, passed away June 2, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Aldo B. Corsetti, 87, of Roswell, passed away May 24, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Tom R. Dailey, 73, of Cumming, passed away June 6, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Floria Dean Day, 82, of Cumming, passed away June 2, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Valerie Ann Doss, 66, of Cumming, passed away June 6, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
William Hamilton, of Cumming, passed away June 1, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors. Elsie Harper, of Alpharetta, passed away June 6, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
sports that has allowed them to take home the Director’s Cup three years running – it’s also the amount of success of its teams and athletes. Lambert won five state championships and earned points toward the Director’s Cup in each sport in which it competed this season. Both the boys and girls program won Director’s Cups, and Lambert finished 184 points ahead of Mill Creek in the overall standings. For perspective on how big a lead 184 points is, a state championship is only worth 100 points.
Football coaching carousel comes to area North Fulton and Forsyth County have welcomed seven new head football coaches this spring. John Ford left Roswell for Buford and was replaced by Matt Kemper who led Johns Creek to its first region championship this season. Adam Clack left West Forsyth for Milton. West then hired Shawn Cahill, former offensive coordinator at Lanier, to replace Clack. Johns Creek tapped Matt Helmerich of Florida’s St. Thomas Aquinas to replace Kemper. Northview also looked outside of the state for its new head coach, James Thomson, a former UCLA offensive analyst. Pinecrest Academy head coach Todd Winter stepped down to take over the same job at Holy Innocents’ and was replaced by Terence Mathis, a former NFL receiver who spent 10 years with the Atlanta Falcons.
Rita Lewis-Devereaux, of Roswell, passed away June 3, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Milton girls lacrosse still best program in Georgia Since the GHSA began recognizing girls lacrosse as a state championship sport 13 years ago, not a year has passed where Milton did not compete for the state championship. Milton took down crosstown rivals Cambridge in the Class 6A-7A state championship game this year to earn the program’s 11th state championship. The state title capped off a 19-4 season in which the Lady Eagles did not lose to a school in Georgia. The combined record of those teams which beat Milton is 86-9, including Maryland’s McDonogh, which has won 175 straight games.
In extreme cases, GHSA can change its tune Whether it was media pressure, the fact that so much was at stake or the strong case that Johns Creek presented, the GHSA’s Board of Trustees made an unprecedented move by overturning a call on the field. It took nearly two weeks, but the GHSA overturned the call that allowed Johns Creek and Lee County to play in a decisive Game 3 in the Class AAAAAA baseball semifinals after ruling that Johns Creek had won Game 2. Whether or not this will set a precedent for later appeals has yet to be determined, but for the Gladiators, it was a monumental occasion that allowed the team to settle the series on the field.
James Sandefur, 73, of Cumming, passed away June 1, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Harriet Kluxdal, 87, of Roswell, passed away May 28, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Gurami Tchanturia, of Alpharetta, passed away June 2, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Alan R. Maxhimer, 74, of Cumming, passed away May 23, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Alphonse Theriault, 84, of Alpharetta, passed away June 2, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
Viola May McKinnely, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away May 28, 2017. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Housang Vaziri, 81, of Alpharetta, passed away May 29, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
Beverly Sahnger, of Alpharetta, passed away June 4, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
26 | June 15, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com
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