Sheriff’s Office seeks reaccreditation FCSO strive to meet national, local standards ►►PAGE 6
Head to head
Two debate for House District 24 seat ►►PAGE 5
Top of their class Local valedictorians talk past successes, future plans ►►PAGE 15
June 17, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 25
Ride for Kids held for pediatric tumor research By HILLARY HUNNINGS news@northfulton.com
Pictured: Troy Von Kutzleben takes Catherine Rowan for a ride.
CUMMING, Ga. – The 32nd annual Atlanta Ride for Kids, a motorcycle event benefitting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, returned to Cumming on June 7. This event was particularly special for the Compton family of Forsyth County, where four-year-old Addison Compton continues her fight against an adult form of brain cancer. Addison Compton looked on as a myriad of motorcycles circled Cumming Fairgrounds. “She likes looking at them,” said Addison’s mother, Samantha Compton. “Normally she’s scared of them but my parents are here, her grand-
parents, and they’re riding in the [Ride for Kids] so that’s what she was looking forward to.” This year, Addison has a ride all her own. “She was diagnosed with adult brain cancer when she was 18 months old,” Samantha Compton said. “This year she was healthy enough that we could come out and do the ride.” A tumor sits at the middle of Addison’s brain and spans outwards left to right. Feeding it at its core was an artery, the tumor’s main blood supply. This main blood supply has been eradicated due to an adult phase I chemotherapy study dubbed AMG 386. “In normal chemo they attack the cells in the body,” said Compton. “This one attacks the blood vessels. The
See RIDE, Page 21 PHOTO BY BILL PHELPS
Second city to get second study County researching possibility of Sharon Springs BY KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After a study done by the Carl Vinson Institute deemed Sharon Springs financially viable in March, the potential city now must undergo a second study. Ken Jarrard, county attorney, asked the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners (BOC) June 9 at their work
session if his office could look into the possibility of the city from the county’s perspective and then get a second opinion on that document. The commissioners voted unanimously to authorize Jarrard to write an opinion on the “city light” issue and to have another expert of his choosing review it. Also, the BOC voted unanimously to authorize Jarrard to bring in a qualified individual or firm to do a study of the
fiscal impacts on the county related to the proposed new city. “This BOC has some long range planning to do and you’re in the middle of the budget time,” Jarrard said. “One of the things you have to think about is JARRARD the potential long term impact of a new city and all of its various funding sources on the county’s budget. No one has looked at that.”
The study said the city would be a “city light,” Jarrad said, which means it will have three powers: zoning, solid waste management and code enforcement. “While the study does come up with the finding this new city would be financially viable, it doesn’t address nor was it tasked to address what the financial impact is on the county,” Jarrard said. “Basically most of its numbers are based upon almost a reverse engi-
See STUDY, Page 15
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On June 5 at 2:25 p.m., deputies with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office responded to a motor vehicle accident on Bethelview Road just south of Kelly Mill Road, involving a Nissan Altima and a tractor trailer. The driver of the Altima, Ryan Unsworth, 35, of Dawsonville was pronounced dead on scene due to the injuries sustained in the accident. The investigation of the accident found that Unsworth, while traveling southbound, swerved into the northbound
Drowning on Lake Lanier claims one life FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On June 8, Forsyth County Sheriff’s deputies responded with the Forsyth County Fire Department to a drowning on Lake Lanier at Shady Grove Campground. Quentin Aaron Muse, 20, of Braselton was swimming in Lake Lanier when witnesses on scene said he began yelling for help. A friend with Muse attempted to help him, but was unsuccessful. Forsyth County marine units were also dispatched to the scene, and with the assistance of the Forsyth County Fire Department dive team, began searching for the victim. He was located by the dive team within 15 minutes of their entry into the water, and CPR was administered on scene. Muse was transported to Northside Forsyth Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The friend who attempted to assist Muse was treated for water inhalation on scene, but was not transported to the hospital. The investigation found that Muse was not wearing a life jacket. No foul play is suspected at this time.
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lane into the path of the tractor trailer, driven by Tydus Tarver, a 51-year-old from Hiram. The Altima collided head on with the tractor trailer and was pushed back northbound approximately 55 feet. Tarver sustained no injuries. Drugs and alcohol are suspected to be a contributing factor in this crash. No charges are pending at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
POLICE BLOTTER
but that he told her no. The girl reportedly became agitated, grabbed the money already agreed upon and began to leave. He told her she couldn’t take the money since she didn’t stay the allotted time and tried to get the money back. She then allegedly bit the man on his forearm and ran out of the house, where the police located her. The man was placed under arrest for furnishing alcohol to an underage person, as he freely admitted to giving her a glass of wine.
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.
Drunk driver leaves with gas pump in car FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An alleged drunk driver left the Marathon gas station at 5715 Atlanta Highway May 31 with the gas pump still in his car. The driver and passenger, who have not been identified at this time, pulled up to the station and went inside to pay for gas and items. While inside, they reportedly told the store clerk how much they drank that night and that they had been partying in Atlanta and were staying in a local hotel. After gassing up their truck, they left the station but the gas hose from the pump was still in the car and was ripped out from the pump. The truck turned onto Atlanta Highway and did not stop. Video footage will be made available to the sheriff’s office.
Neighbor dispute escalates FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man wanted to document harassing communications from his neighbor on Upland Court June 6. The man told officers he was approached by a neighbor who received a letter about covenant violations from the homeowners’ association (HOA) board. He told her he didn’t know anything about it, although he was on the HOA. He said the woman left upset and disappointed. The next day, the man said he received a message on Facebook from the woman’s husband asking him what he said to his wife and mentioning he would find out sooner or later. He said the husband went on to call him names and curse at him. The man didn’t respond. The man told officers he wanted the incident documented because of the husband’s history, which he said included leaving dead beavers in the parking lot of a business after having a disagreement with the owner. The man also said the husband has an extensive gun collection, was in the military and tells everyone he suffers from PTSD. He was given a case card and advised to avoid contact with the husband.
Underage call girl turns violent CUMMING, Ga. — An alleged call girl started arguing and fighting with the man who requested her services June 8 at Azalea Circle after he did not give her more money. The man, 62, reportedly told officers he answered an ad online for companionship and arranged for the girl, 20, to be picked up and go back to his house. After they arrived at his house, he said he poured the girl a glass of wine for both of them and they began to talk. He told officers a short time later the girl began asking for more money
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DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
DUI arrests ►► Samantha Cocchiarella,
47, of Sapphire Lane, Gainesville was arrested May 30 on Waldrip Road in Gainesville for DUI, failure to maintain lane and expired registration/invalid plates or decal. ►► Jesse Callaway, 32, of Village Estates Court, Cumming was arrested June 5 on State Route 9 at Pirkle Ferry Road for DUI and driving on the wrong side of undivided street. ►► Christopher Smith, 22, of Athens was arrested June 6 on Buford Highway for DUI. ►► Dennis Myers, 54, of Shamrock Drive, Cumming was arrested June 5 on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Cumming for DUI. ►► David Haitz, 25, of Glover Drive, Cumming was arrested
June 7 on State Route 9 at State Route 371 in Cumming for DUI, criminal damage to public property and failure to obey signs or control devices.
Drug arrests ►► Kimberly Emory, 47, of
Dawsonville was arrested June 7 on Pea Ridge Road in Gainesville for possession of methamphetamine and possession and use of drug-related objects. ►► Teresa Clayton, 42, of Evans Road, Cumming was arrested June 3 on Post Road in Cumming for possession of methamphetamine. ►► Ricky Tanner, 46, of Dawsonville was arrested June 5 on Dahlonega Highway and Bannister Road in Cumming for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a schedule II controlled substance, possession and use of drugrelated objects, prescriptions/ dangerous drugs not in original container and failure to use seatbelts. ►► Stephanie Loving, 31, of Lawrenceville was arrested June 6 at Northside Forsyth Drive in Cumming for posses-
sion of methamphetamine and wanted person located. ►► Karri Poston, 21, of Loganville was arrested June 6 on Faircrest Lane in Alpharetta for theft by receiving stolen vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug-related item or narcotic equipment. ►► Jay Bellinger, 26, of John Burruss Road, Cumming was arrested June 6 on John Burruss Road in Cumming for possession of marijuana and probation violation. ►► Donte Jamal German, 24, of Lawrenceville was arrested May 30 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, driving with a sus-
pended registration and driving without proof of insurance. ►► Sean Gregory Oakes, 22, of Augusta was arrested June 6 on Providence Road in Milton for possession of cocaine and possession of drug-related paraphernalia. ► ► William Bernard Boyd Jr., 22, of Detroit, Michigan, was arrested May 21 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana and failure to dim headlights. ►► Dexter Lane Reid, 33, of Sandy Springs was arrested May 21 on Ga. 9 in Roswell for possession of marijuana, possession of drug-related paraphernalia, driving with a broken taillight and driving with a
Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 3 suspended license. ►► Kenji Jabari Horne, 34, of Anderson, Indiana, was arrested May 15 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for trafficking cocaine, possession with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, failure to maintain lane and failure to signal when changing lanes. ►► Travis Rodney Vaughan, 35, of Morris Road, Alpharetta, was arrested May 18 on Morris Road, Alpharetta for possession of methamphetamine, possession of schedule III drugs, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during a crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
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4 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
Commissioners discuss 2016 budget By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners was presented with the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2016 at their work session June 9. David Gruen with the finance committee explained the findings. He said some of the highlights included budget changes such as increases in healthcare and AD&D (accidental deaths and dismemberment) costs, as well as Fleet Maintenance internal service charge allocations replaced by actual charges for service under operating expenditures. The total for expenditures for judicial for the 2016 preliminary totaled $12,128,400, an increase of 3.25 percent from the 2015 budget total. The total expenditures for public safety for the
2016 preliminary budget totaled $41,226,382, an increase of 2.78 percent from the 2015 budget total. For health and welfare, its expenditures were budgeted at $3,444,600 for 2016, an increase of .02 percent from 2015. Culture GRUEN and recreation was at $14,412,500 for 2016, an increase of 11.29 percent from 2015. Housing and development’s expenditures’ total for 2016 was $4,925,500, an increase of 1.35 percent from 2015. In total, the general fund expenditures same service 2016 preliminary budget total was $109,384,732, an increase of 5.77 percent from 2015. In 2015, it was $103.4 million. Gruen showed a chart of the expenditures and it showed public safety had
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ALPHARETTA, Windward, Multi family, Bay Pointe Subdivision., Friday 6/12, Saturday, 6/13, 8am-1pm. Furniture, household, clothing, games, toys, educational books, holiday décor, computers, TV’s, baby, electronics, more! ALPHARETTA: Westminster At Crabapple, 5095 Jonquilla Drive 30004. Friday 6/12, 8am-4pm and Saturday 6/13, 8am-3pm. Estate sale: Beautifully maintained home; everything must go. Cash only, no refunds. ALPHARETTA/MILTON: 15945 Milton Point (Highland Manor) Friday 6/12 & Saturday 6/13, 8:00am-3:00pm. Redecorating - For Sale: Home decor’, samples, hutches, light fixtures, household, small appliances, games, clothes, etc CUMMING: Hunters Chase Subdivision, 2515 Woodland Hills Drive 30040. Saturday 6/13, 8am-2pm. Tools, aquarium, tennis/sport bags, light fixtures, remote control Hummer and race car, miscellaneous JOHN’S CREEK - River Ridge Subdivision, 8565/8555 Driver Circle 30022. Saturday, 6/13, 8am-3pm. Furniture: leather couch/chair, tables, butcher block, bookcase, file cabinet, coffee table, household, holiday decor, yard tools, linens, & miscellaneous MILTON: Champions View Subdivsion, Multi-family 115 Champions Club Court 30004. Friday 6/12 and Saturday 6/13, 8am-2pm Furniture, Baby stuff, Clothes, electronics, and more MILTON: Multi family. Wyndham Subdivision, Sunfish Bend and Highway 9. Saturday 6/13, 9am-3pm. Lots of “something for everyone!” MILTON: Crooked Creek; 135 Kentworth Circle. Friday 6/12, Saturday 6/13, 8am-3pm. Brunswick pool and pub table with 4 leather chairs, like new stainless washer and dryer and 4 door refrigerator, patio furniture. Furnishings for all rooms. ROSWELL: Brookfield Subdivision, Multi-family Oakhaven Dr. and Arroyo Drive; Furniture, household items, children’s items; Friday 6/12, Saturday 6/13, 8am-2pm; Don’t miss it! ROSWELL: Much stuff! Antique-new. Saddle Creek, FridaySaturday 612, 6/13, 9am-4pm SUWANEE, Olde Atlanta Club, 5945 Grand View Way, Saturday 6/13, 8:30am-2pm. Moving sale. Downsizing; Furniture, housewares and lots of good quality items! Can’t post signs but look for balloons.
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37.68 percent, while general government had 28.91 percent. The smallest percentage was other finance service totaling 1.48 percent. The total general fund revenue for 2016 is $110,542,534, a 6.89 percent increase from 2015 when it was $103.42 million. This included $87,055, 934 of taxes including real and personal property taxes, sales taxes (LOST) and other taxes. Taxes had a 13.56 percent increase from 2015. Real and personal property taxes took up about 48.40 percent of the general fund revenue. The general fund expenditures same service was at $109 million, while general fund revenues projected were at $110 million, leaving $1,157,809 available funds. Gruen said the next steps were for the budget to be discussed by the commissioners and have public hearings within the next few months.
More flex shoulder lanes to open on Ga. 400 3 miles This is one of northbound, 1 mile southbound our relatively ATLANTA – Starting Monday, June 15, the Georgia Department of Transportation will open five additional miles of flex shoulder lanes on Ga. 400. Commuters who travel on Ga. 400 northbound will have four more miles of flex shoulder lanes to use during the morning and afternoon rush hours. The northbound flex shoulder lanes will begin at Abernathy Road to the MARTA North Springs Station; MARTA North Springs Station to Northridge Road; and SR 120/ Old Milton Parkway to Windward Parkway. On Ga. 400 southbound, commuters will have one more mile of flex shoulder lane to use during peak travel hours. The new lane will start at the MARTA North Springs Station and end at Abernathy Road. “We are implementing a quick response project to lengthen the flex shoulder lane sections on Ga. 400,” said Kathy Zahul, metro district engineer. “The flex shoulder lane provides an additional travel lane for commuters during the peak hours. This is one of our relatively low-cost, quick turnaround operational strategies designed to get as much efficiency as we can out of the highway network.” The Georgia DOT will construct additional flex shoulder
low-cost, quick turnaround operational strategies designed to get as much efficiency as we can out of the highway network.” KATHY ZAHUL Metro district engineer
lanes from Holcomb Bridge Road to SR 120/ Old Milton Parkway. The total project will cost $850,000. The flex shoulder lanes originally opened in Spring 2012 on Ga. 400 southbound. In April 2015, GDOT extended the morning hours to 6 - 10 a.m., Monday through Friday, and the afternoon hours to 4 - 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously while driving on the flex shoulder lanes. Motorists should not exceed the posted 45-mile per hour shoulder lane advisory speed limit.
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Two debate for House District 24 seat By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Two of the four candidates vying for the House District 24 seat debated many county topics June 6, including Sharon Springs, electing Board of Commissioners and House bill 170. The two candidates in attendance were David Van Sant and Ethan Underwood. The other candidates, Sheri Gilligan and Will Kremer, did not participate in the debate held McDonald & Son Funeral Home & Crematory and put on by the Forsyth County Republican Party. The four candidates are seeking the spot of House District 24 in a special election held June 16. The spot opened up last month after Mark Hamilton stepped down to take a job in Tennessee. The group putting this debate on said if there is a runoff, there will be a second debate between those candidates June 24 at 7 p.m. in the Forsyth County Administration Building. The debate was a 60-minute question and answer with Rachel Little, former chair of the Republican Party in Gwinnett County and currently leading the Republican Party in Georgia’s 4th Congressional
District, moderating. For his opening statement, Van Sant said he grew up in Alpharetta and went to Milton High School. His campaign message is “God, family and constitution.” Which he said isn’t just a slogan but guiding principles he tries to live by. His major reasons for running are his concerns with growth and gridlock. He also said he cannot sit on the sidelines and watch a handpicked candidate from the establishment continue to further the agenda of the establishment and that he’s here to give voters another choice. Underwood said he grew up in Chattanooga, but his grandmother is from Forsyth County so he has a deep love for the county. He said he’s a conservative republican who’s been working in the trenches of conservative politics since he was 15 years old. He also said no one has to question whether he will lead by conservative principles. Underwood said he wants to take his skills down to Atlanta and represent the voters to make sure they have accurate infrastructure here, bring the schools up to speed and position the county for the future. Do you believe in redesigning the current model of
electing commissioners, and if so, how? Underwood: I do support some modifications. Whatever system we have has to be fair and equal presentation. I understand there is some frustration about changing to a system where it’s one person, one vote. I can’t think of a more fair system. If you end up with at large representatives, then you end up running down to one section of the county and representing that section of the county. I would support having seven commissioners. We would have better and equal representation. Van Sant: We need to do something. This is something a lot of people are concerned about. When you think about it, you have five right now. We’re only allowed to elect one. But everyone can vote on what impacts you in your district. That model doesn’t sit well with me. I know a lot of people wishing for a county-wide election and that might be the right way to do it. Conceptually that makes more sense to me. Would you support the creation of a city in south Forsyth and if so why? Van Sant: I have no idea if I’d support that or not. It’s not in my district and there are
studies being commissioned right now to see how it would impact my district. That is what I would want to see first. I can tell you it is an issue that needs to be decided at the ballot box and not by me. Underwood: I’m not opposed to a city in south Forsyth for the sake of a city. In the bill Rep. Mike Dudgeon put in, they called it a ‘city light’ model. This group gets to handle zoning, code enforcement and trash pick-up. But the rest of us have to handle roads, streets, utilities. The way our SPLOST system works, we use it to subsidize every one of those government functions. We will have to raise our property taxes. My advice to the proponents of the city is, if you want it, be a whole honestto-goodness city. I could get behind that. But the way it’s set up now, I can’t support it if it’s asking the rest of Forsyth County to pay for it. Considering the fact some people are against House Bill 170, the transportation bill, what do or don’t you like about it? Van Sant: I did not like it and I would not have voted for it. We had already voted for our own transportation bond. Forsyth County had already
passed a transportation bond to address our transportation needs. On top of that, our representative goes down and passes a billion dollar tax increase. So what you have now is a bill that causes the people of Forsyth County to subsidize transportation for the rest of Georgia when we had already fixed our issue locally. Underwood: I think House Bill 170 wasn’t a perfect bill, but I also think sometimes you have to take action. I went to Republican Party meetings for years and I heard people yell ‘don’t you dare spend money on roads or schools’ and we didn’t. Now we’re all sitting in gridlock because we didn’t have the issue. We have to have leaders go down to Atlanta and say we have to look at the big picture. The big picture isn’t us in Forsyth County, it’s the state of Georgia. At the end of the debate, the candidates got the option to ask their opponent a question. Underwood asked if Van Sant donated money to democrats and if he paid Eric Erickson, radio personality, to endorse him. Van Sant said he had supported democrats in the past, but there no doubt he’s a constitutional republican. He also said he 100 percent did not pay Eric Erickson.
6 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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Sheriff’s Office seeks reaccreditation By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County residents can sleep soundly knowing the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is striving to be the best possible law enforcement agency they can be — and getting proof. The FCSO voluntarily spent the second week of June seeking its third reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). One of the first events during the week was a public comment meeting where members of
the audience could talk openly about the FCSO. Gregg Boyer is a Sargent with the FCSO and he is in charge of setting up the reaccreditation. “We voluntarily submit to national standards to meet those criteria so we can be a more professional and a better agency and so we can keep up with the training of law enforcement,” Boyer said. There are 175 standards the sheriff’s office must meet, Boyer said. Agencies must get reaccredited every three years and this is the fourth time FCSO has done that, including the original
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accreditation. “A lot of them focus mostly on high liability areas of law enforcement,” Boyer said. “Such as areas that are the most concerning to the public and to protect citizens, the agency and community.” Boyer said they serve the public so the public opinion is valuable to the sheriff’s office. “We want to make sure the things we do not only meet the standards across the nation but they’re also important to the citizens and we can meet their needs and expectations of law enforcement,” Boyer said. On the night of the public comment, however, no one showed up. Rob Sofie is with the CALEA accreditation team and he said that will not impact the FCSO’s reaccreditation. “It’s not something as an agency we don’t uncommonly see,” Sofie said. “This is an agency that’s been accredited for a long time and it just depends on the community.” Not all law enforcement agencies throughout the country are accredited, Sofie said. He said it is difficult and not for the weak-hearted. “If you go to a hospital you want to go to an accredited hospital, same thing with a university,” Sofie said. “Most degrees you get they’ll ask if it’s from an accredited university. Law enforcement is the same thing. You want it to be someone that has some accepted best practices of law enforcement professional excellence that are being vetted and verified. So it’s an important thing to say we do it and it’s another thing to have it verified by independent objective assessors who come in and make sure
We voluntarily submit to national standards to meet those criteria so we can be a more professional and a better agency and so we can keep up with the training of law enforcement,” GREGG BOYER Sargent with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office you’re adhering to those best practices.” It’s important to get reaccredited to make sure you know what to do in case of a bad scenario, Sofie said. “Someone is policing the police so you don’t end up in some of the situations you’re seeing in cities,” Sofie said. “I’m not saying they aren’t accredited agencies, because things can happen, but when you are you know you have best practices that have been vetted to use.” Sofie said he and his staff who came to Forsyth County do not get the final say on reaccreditation, but instead they send their report on to the CALEA. “This is not a good-ole-boy network,” Sofie said. “If you get accredited, you earned it.”
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Why, how and what to do about it It’s the perfect day for spring/summer cleaning. I turn on my favorite “energizing” music, put on my headband and sweats and pull out all of my usual cleaning products: Windex, anti-bacterial wipes, Swiffer duster, multipurpose cleaner with bleach and so on. As I’m cleaning, I develop a harsh feeling in my nose, throat and sinuses. It seems like the cleaner the house gets, the worse I feel. Why is this? Chemicals in cleaners were a revolution/revelation in getting rid of germs when they were invented. Windex has been around since the early 1900s. Problem is, there weren’t very many tests done to determine how these products were affecting our health and overall well-being. Use Windex for an example. A main ingredient in Windex is ammonia, a chemical that is both corrosive and hazardous. There are only small amounts of ammonia in Windex, so one could argue that anything in small amounts is not harmful. However, how many times in your life do you clean your house? (I clean every week and deep clean every other week.) How many times do you wipe down your kitchen/bathroom counter while cleaning up from a meal or a spill? Clean up after a pet…? Don’t forget that harsh feeling in your sinuses after just one day of cleaning. How can we make a change for the better? Change is difficult for most people, myself included. At some point though we need to ask ourselves, “If the change is for the better and will be better for me, is it worth it?” As human beings, we tend to care for and support things we value (expensive cars, jewelry and our iPhones to name a few). In that same spirit, let’s value ourselves and make the switch to a more natural approach to cleaning. We keep hearing the word “natural” to describe many things that are marketed to us daily. What does it really mean? At its core, it simply means something that is not manmade. There is no need to break the bank and throw out all of the cleaning products you already have. By all means, use them up before you make the switch, and take that time to plan and budget for your
CIARA M. RUBIN Guest Columnist ciaramrubin11@ gmail.com
Recipes for DIY laundry soap and glass cleaner: Homemade laundry soap • 4 gallons of hot water • 1 cup Borax • 1 cup washing soda • Bar of Dr. Bronner’s soap (any scent you prefer) • Dissolve all ingredients in the hot water, store in your laundry room, use 1 cup of solution per load. Enjoy! Good for 160 loads and costs only 0.03 per load Homemade glass cleaner • 1 pint (2 cups) water • 2 tablespoons white vinegar • 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional, but helps with the vinegar smell) • Combine items in a spray bottle (preferably glass) and use a microfiber cloth to wipe windows and mirrors clean. natural products. Where do I start and what do I get? After running out of your current cleaning products, here is the list of what to stock: • White vinegar • Liquid and solid Castile soap (Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap) • Salt • Baking soda • Borax (sodium borate) • Washing soda (sodium carbonate) • Hydrogen peroxide • Lemons and essential oils (lavender, rose, citrus, whatever appeals to you) • Microfibers (envirocloth, polishing cloth, dusting mitt, telescopic mop) Almost all of these things can be found online or at your local grocery store. The more you value yourself, the happier you will feel. Be proud of your ability to make positive changes in your life! Stay tuned for more tips on how to value yourself and live a more natural life.
ACCIDENT AHEAD:
The joys of the long commute My first real job out of college, which is my current one at Appen Media Group in Alpharetta, was 0.9 miles away from the house I was sharing with my roommates. When I say roommates I mean my father and stepmom. It was the perfect scenario. I was in a full time position, getting paid for something I went to school for. Even better, I could wake up half an hour before work, take care of all my morning chores and still be in the office before anyone else. Things started to change when my girlfriend Kimber and I moved in together. We found an apartment 5.4 miles away from the office. My commute went from two minutes to a whopping 12 minutes. I now found myself waking up an entire 45 minutes before work. Things were still good. I could go home for lunch. Rush hour traffic consisted of sitting a couple minutes while trying to get past the local high school. Again, things were about to change. Kimber found her own perfect scenario, obtaining a job in the Atlanta Public School system, getting paid for something she went to school for. However, this meant we had to move further toward Atlanta which equated to a longer commute for me. After many nights searching apartments.com, we found an apartment that was in a trendy area, in our price range and had an approved safety rating. This meant we were going to be living in Decatur. My commute time was about to go up too. I had gone from a 0.9 mile to 5.4 mile commute and now would be 28.5 miles. I convinced myself that
A.J. McNAUGHTON Pizza Enthusiast aj@appenmediagroup.com
it wouldn’t be more than 30 to 40 minutes and this time could be used to catch up on talk radio or listen to that album I had heard about. I was wrong. Very wrong. My daily commute one way is over an hour, and usually hovers around 2.5 hours roundtrip. While I am living in a trendy area with plenty of night life, I am usually sitting in traffic and not able to enjoy it. Sitting in the car listening to the same topics on the radio and the same album over and over again have gotten stale. Even better are the different type of personalities I encounter on Ga. 400 and I-285. Just yesterday a fellow commuter gave me the singlefinger wave because she thought I was a swell driver. And there are always those who don’t have time to get ready before they leave the house, so they have to apply mascara and lipstick as they sit waiting for traffic to move. I have been witness to more fender benders in the past six months than my entire lifetime. Also, I have seen two cars engulfed in flames. Sitting in this kind of traffic is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. While plenty of family and coworkers told me commuting from Decatur to Alpharetta would be a nightmare, I didn’t listen. I’m going to blame it on naiveté. I’ve only lived in the area for three years and didn’t know the true horror that is
Atlanta traffic. Which makes me ask the question, why would anyone working north of Atlanta live inside the Perimeter? I have heard the argument that the suburbs are boring and that there is nothing to do. Are the bars and nightlife ITP worth the hours upon hours of sitting in gridlock during the week? I would argue no. Plus, the northern suburbs are becoming ever more millennial friendly. There has always been outdoor activities like hiking Kennesaw Mountain and Indian Seats in Forsyth, or canoeing down the Chattahoochee. Or what about the newly opened Botanical Gardens, Gainesville? What about the brewpubs and breweries in the area? Hop Alley in Alpharetta, Jekyll Brewery in Alpharetta or Cherry Street Brewing Company in Forsyth County are all exceptional after hours destinations. And there are even sports. Pretty soon the Braves will be in Cobb County, with their minor league affiliate in Gwinnett and if you’re into hockey, The Gwinnett Gladiators play their home games in Duluth. Of course there is shopping, movie theaters, restaurants and more. Why deal with the headache of bumper to bumper to get to work just to live close to where the “hotspots” are when there is so much going on right where you’re already working. Writers note: Luckily Kimber has felt my pain this past week. She has been commuting to Marietta from Decatur during the peak of rush hour for a class. She has agreed to move to a more central location.
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OPINION
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 9
Share the Greenway I live about a quarter of a mile from the Greenway, so my family and I take advantage of the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere as often as we can. We love to take a walk and spot owls or note how many different types of trees we can find. Usually, it’s a great experience for all and helps us stay fit while enjoying nature. As an avid Greenway fan, I appreciate the common sense and courtesy shown by most users. Sadly, I also see a few folks who don’t follow the posted rules and disrespect the other trail users, sometimes creating dangerous situations. (Rule #1: Be courteous & respectful of others.) More than once I’ve been nearly knocked over by bikers exceeding the posted 10 miles per hour speed limit. Some probably think they’re on the road competing with cars instead of children and pedestrians. The Greenway is not designed for cyclists to speed race. The multitudes of
KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com
children on bikes, strollers, dogs and slow moving pedestrians make this a dangerous Greenway activity. (Rule #2: Observe the 10 M.P.H. speed limit.) Not to mention, when staying on my side of the yellow dividing lines painted on the pathway, I am sometimes given a lovely hand gesture for not giving the bikers the entire lane. That’s always a nice way to wrap up a serene walk. In one instance I had to almost jump off the trail for fear of getting mowed down by an over-zealous Segway rider. Yes, a Segway on the Greenway. The Greenway is meant to give exercisers an outdoor option to enjoy a break from the stress
Fu Ro rnis Lif om hin est in gs yle Yo for ur Ev Ho er me y
of hectic day-to-day life. (Rule #3: No motorized vehicles or horseback riding allowed.) Recently, a reader called our office to ask if she could vent about the Greenway. We listened to her concerns. She talked about bikers going too fast, the lanes being too narrow and people not picking up their dogs’ waste. (Rule #4: All pets must be on a leash/ clean up after your pet.) These are all things I thought were common sense. Slow down and say “on your left” when passing a runner or walker. They will appreciate this small courtesy. The lanes aren’t too narrow; some people just think they should get both sides of the lanes. And every responsible pet owner knows you don’t leave your dog’s waste
Most of these rules should be self-explanatory, but some don’t take the time to read them. on the trail. The Greenway provides doggy bags in case you forgot to bring your own from home. Please use them. Whether on foot, riding a bike or roller blading, the Gre-
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COMMUNITY
10 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Spots still available at summer sports camps FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation center urges parents to enroll their young athletes in the Youth Football and Co-Ed Speed Camps while spots are still open. The Youth Football Camp will teach athletes the proper fundamentals, skills and football techniques needed to succeed in the game. Led by the South Forsyth High School football staff, the camp will be held June 22-25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. All participants age 5-13 are welcome. The program will be $100 for Forsyth County residents and $120 for all non-county residents. The Co-Ed Speed Camp
is designed to cover skills to help promote conditioning, speed, agility and flexibility for all types of athletes. This program will also be led by the South Forsyth High School football staff and held from July 6-8. The camp will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and open for all participants age 6-14. This program will also be $100 for county residents and $120 for non-county residents. Pre-registration is required for both camps and can be completed online on the Parks and Recreation Department page at www. forsythco.com/parks -Malik Jones
Pinecrest Academy Varsity students Christina Aufleger and Adam Rocko win spots on Regional Tennis Team.
Varsity tennis students join regional team FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— Adam Rocko and Christina Aufleger, both juniors at Pinecrest Academy, have been selected
to join the 2015 All-Region Singles Tennis Team. They will be competing in Class A Private Area 2 along-
side nine other students from neighboring Forsyth County schools. —Malik Jones
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 11
Northside Hospital offers SFHS students finish well in international marketing competition free skin cancer screening FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Seventeen South Forsyth High School students took home awards at the 2015 DECA Career Development Conference in Orlando. DECA is an international association of high school and college students and teachers of marketing, management and entrepreneurship. DECA’s competitive events program is an integral part of the classroom curriculum at South Forsyth High School, which offers several courses in marketing management, entrepreneurship, fashion, sports and entertainment marketing. Over 100 South Forsyth students attended the conference, along with over 18,000 high school students from around the globe. Nick Straka and Lauren Gimotty won second place for their submission in the International Business Plan competition. Daniel Graves, Sydney Janes and Lindsay Nance won third place in the Finish Line Marketing Challenge. Catherine Organ and Emma Maisel won fourth place for their Sports and Entertainment Promotion Plan. Anna Snarey, Claire Cogland and Brianna Helms won seventh place in the Creative Marketing Research competition. Daniel Graves was also among the top ten professional sales presentations. Ashley Suk was among the top ten finalists for hotel and lodging management role-play. Hannah Hite, Alexandria Montay and Hoda Negahi were national finalists in the FIDM Fashion Marketing Runway Challenge. Liam Shannon and Juliana Correa were recipients of the DECA National Scholarship. The evaluation process in DECA competition involves students in both a written
CUMMING, Ga. — Did you know skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer? According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), more than 2,000 cases of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, will be diagnosed in Georgia this year. As with other cancers, early detection is important. The Northside Hospital Cancer Institute would like to help you get ready for the sun with a free skin cancer screening. Medical professionals will provide skin assessments in a private setting. Everyone is invited to
attend. Northside’s free skin cancer screening should not replace a complete skin exam with a skin specialist. The free screening will take place: Wed., June 17, 6 - 8 p.m. Northside Hospital-Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming, Ga. 30041 Free parking available. Qualified Spanish interpreters available free of charge, by request. Recommended Screening Attire: Shorts and T-Shirt Appointments are required. Call 404-531-4444.
VARSITY BRIEFS
is majoring in mathematics and minoring in biology.
Send us your news! Nick Straka, left, and Lauren Gimotty win second place for their international business plan. component such as an exam or report, and an interactive component with an industry professional serving as a judge. The goal of DECA competition is to assist marketing students in being college and career ready when they graduate from high school. For more information on DECA high school programs, visit www.deca.org/high-schoolprograms/.
Email to news@appenmediagroup.com More Info: 770-442-3278
Morehead State University
Georgia Southern University
MOREHEAD, Ky. – Ryan Bennett of Alpharetta was named to the Dean’s List for the 2014 fall semester at Morehead State University. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must carry a GPA of 3.5 or better.
STATESBORO, Ga. – Valerie Welty of Cumming made the Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester at Georgia Southern University. Welty, who has been named to the Dean’s List at Georgia Southern University for the fifth straight semester,
See VARSITY, Page 21
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COMMUNITY
12 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
ALPHARETTA CHAMBER’S
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Eighth-graders accept Good Citizenship awards at middle school Honor’s Night. They are, from left, Ed Rigel, Jr., Chris Russo, Walker Bryan, Dr. Jeff Woods, Lucia Morris, Kerry Hartshorn, Emily Danielsson, Tom Davis and Allen Greenly.
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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Four eighth-grade students received Good Citizenship awards at South Forsyth Middle School’s Honor’s Night at Lanier Technical College on May 21. Lucia Morris and Grant Falite received the award from the Martha Stewart Bulloch Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Emily Danielsson and Walker Bryan received the award from the Robert Forsyth Chapter of the Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolu-
tion (GASSAR). This award recognized each student’s commitment to his or her community and to their academics. In addition, Emily Danielsson received two awards for her two first-place entries in the Sons of the American Revolution’s Sgt. Moses Adams Memorial Middle School Brochure Contest held by the Robert Forsyth Chapter. She received another award for her second place finish at the state level in the competition. —Malik Jones
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COMMUNITY
SEMC members present the check for over $26,000.00 to local charities.
Sawnee Foundation gives extra profits to community charities CUMMING, Ga.— Sawnee Electrical Membership Foundation was able to award $26,126.61 to eight local charities thanks to its Operation Round-Up Program. Operation Round-Up is a collection of Sawnee EMC members who each month voluntarily opt to round their electric bill up to the next highest dollar. The proceeds of these donations are given directly to the Sawnee Foundation and then reallocated within the community. The average annual donation per member is about $6, giving only a few pennies per month. Though miniscule in the beginning, these donations can add up to great sums, allowing the Foundation Board to donate nearly $1.8 million back into local communities since 2003. The organizations that benefitted from this year’s award included: Safe Boating
Lake Lanier, Inc., Stand UP for Kids North Fulton Initiative, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, American Legion Post 307, Dawson County Wee Books, G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA, Next Generation Focus and Home Repairs Ministries. Interested applicants are required to submit an application to the Foundation Board of Directors for their quarterly review. In order to qualify for a grant, an organization must be located in the area served by Sawnee EMC and provide a service within the local community. Teachers may also apply for grant funds through the foundation’s Bright Ideas Program, which is part of Operation Round-Up. For more information about the Operation Round-Up program, please visit their website at www.sawnee.com/roundup/ about . -Malik Jones
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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 13
COMMUNITY
14 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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UNG tackles child hunger By MALIK JONES news@northfulton.com CUMMING, Ga. — The University of North Georgia will provide free meals and snacks to under-privileged children across eight counties as part of the Summer Food Service Program. Funded through the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the program will serve children in Forsyth, Habersham, Hall, Jackson, Lumpkin, Oconee, Stephens and Union counties.
The University of North Georgia has been a sponsor of Georgia’s Bright From the Start Summer Food Service Program since 2012 when UNG distributed 5,153 meals and snacks to nutritionally at-risk school-age children in Hall County. After its early success, the program has grown steadily every year and is anticipating serving nearly 50,000 meals this summer. Children ages 18 and under will be eligible for meals from the program. Students who are 19 or older with a predetermined mental or physical
disability and participate in a school program for the mentally or physically disabled are eligible to receive meals. Pregnant women who are 18 years old or younger and already receive school meals through Early Head Start services or another nutrition program are also eligible for meals. The Summer Food Service Program will not only benefit the children it serves, but will provide an excellent opportunity for UNG students interested in bettering themselves and their communities.
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Georgia’s hunger statistics from the “Hunger in America” food distribution study and the Atlanta Community Food Bank. According to Dr. Pamela Elfenbein, Head of the Department of Sociology and Human Services at UNG, current students and graduates from the Human Services and Delivery Administration (HSDA) degree program will continue to deliver meals and assist at each site as designated “Site Monitors.” “Participation by current students helps satisfy the HSDA program’s required 200 hours of field work,” said Elfenbein. The students will not be alone in their efforts. Site supervisors will include teachers, Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) workers and community volunteers. “In Forsyth County we are very fortunate to have partnered with the Cumming First United Methodist Church, whose volunteers provide support for our meal service sites,” said Elfenbein. “Poverty, low educational attainment and food insecurity are significant issues for families and children across north Georgia. In Hall and Lumpkin counties, for instance, 66 percent of schoolaged children qualify for free or reduced meals at school. UNG has expanded the program in an effort to help alleviate
Forsyth Summer Food Service Program locations: • Saxony Place Apartments, 101-103 14 St., from 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. • Bald Ridge on 105 Ridgeview Circle, from 12:30-1:15 p.m. • YMCA on 2210 Turner Road from 12:00-1:15 p.m. All sites end operation July 31. hunger and malnutrition and address the negative effects that hunger and malnutrition have on an individual’s health, educational development and growth.” With a background in military service and training, UNG maintains a mission that includes service and engagement to meet the needs of the region it serves. Child hunger is no exception. For more information on how to volunteer this year or get involved next summer, please contact Dr. Pamela Elfenbein at 678-717-3688.
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SCHOOLS
forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 15
STRIVING FOR THE BEST:
Showcasing Forsyth County’s valedictorians BY KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com
the foundation for the future.
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Among the high school students in Forsyth County sits the best of their classes, the valedictorians. These students worked hard to earn the prestige title and are bound to be destined for great things. The Forsyth Herald reached out to the county’s whiz kids and asked them questions about their life, school and future. Among the next few weeks we will be showcasing these talented students, starting with South Forsyth High School, Forsyth Central High School and North Forsyth High School.
Akhil Kota
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In 10 years, I see myself as a fledgling neurosurgeon, completing the final years of my residency and venturing into the daunting task of repairing people’s brains. However (thankfully) this is quite a long ways away from now.
South Forsyth High School What activities did you do in high school? Math Team, Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad, Biology Olympiad, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Beta Club, tennis, piano
What does it mean to you to be the valedictorian for your school? To me, being the valedictorian of my high school was exciting, relieving and motivating. Being the valedictorian was exciting, as I was finally able to stand up and showcase the “nerd” that I am. Being the valedictorian was a relief, as I finally received a reward for all of the work I had to push and struggle through these last four years. And lastly, being the valedictorian was motivating, inspiring me to continue to achieve accolades and reach the pinnacle of success in all aspects of life.
John Rawlings
Forsyth Central High School KOTA
Where will you be going to college? Major? Minor? Johns Hopkins University, majoring in Neuroscience What was the best part of your high school experience or a favorite memory? The best part of my high school experience has definitely been the relationships that I have been able to form. These high school relationships with teachers and friends are the ones that I know I can come back to whenever I have troubles in life (save family relationships), as high school is essentially
Study: Continued from Page 1 neering of ‘this is what the county may have collected for this.’ We’ll pull this out and it’ll be what the city can collect for. But of course we’re basing it primarily providing those three functions.” Jarrard said he is challenged by the city light concept, which the General Assembly approved. “One of the reasons that I get there and get caught up in that is because there’s a Georgia constitutional division that says in addition to any powers inferred by a municipality, it must also have other powers including police and fire protection, garbage, parks and recreation, etc.,” Jarrard said. “I’m a practitioner in this area and I know the constitution is a big document. There may be more I need to look
What activities did you do in high school? Throughout all four years I was in 13 clubs and three different sports, so I’ll pick a few to keep it short. I arbitrarily decide to join the Cross Country RAWLINGS team sophomore year, and it has completely changed my life style; I’ll probably be a runner for the rest of my life. As far as clubs go, I spent a lot of time in Beta Club, National Spanish Honor Society, and Academic Team. Where will you be going to college? Major? Minor? I will be attending the University of
Georgia in the fall as a Foundation Fellow. I intend to major in International Business major with minors in Spanish and Japanese.
by God’s grace, raised over $60,000 in Jesus’ name to fight global poverty.
What was the best part of your high school experience or a favorite memory? One of my favorite memories was when my friends and I started a conga line at Homecoming that ended having nearly 80 people in it.
Where will you be going to college? Major? Minor? I’m going to Georgia Tech to major in Civil Engineering and I will minor in either Management or Spanish.
What does it mean to you to be the valedictorian for your school? To be truthful, I don’t know if the significance has quite sunk in yet. It still feels like as soon as summer is over that I’m going to have to go back to high school all over again. I understand that it is a huge honor to be valedictorian of a class of over four hundred, and that Forsyth County has extremely high quality schools, but I think that the enormity of it isn’t going to hit me until I move into my college dorm and I can look back and see that it really is over. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years I see myself with a master’s degree, and hopefully a newly started business. However, I have a tendency to let life take its course and life is far too unpredictable to know where I will be in ten years. I have the outlines of a plan, but I’d rather not restrict myself and miss an opportunity.
Joshua Martin
North Forsyth High School What activities did you do in high school? I worked at Whitelake Studio all four years of high school. I was on leadership for Flood Student Missions in 10th and 11th grade. My senior year I was on Simple Charity’s leadership team, which consumed most of my time when I wasn’t doing school work. We,
One of the things you have to think about is the potential long term impact of a new city and all of its various funding sources on the county’s budget. No one has looked at that.” KEN JARRARD, Forsyth County attorney at but I think the notion of a city light needs to be addressed.” The city light version would impact what the government will truly do which impacts which resources it will need to truly do that as opposed to a very limited and confined municipality which the study was based upon, Jarrard said. The commissioners asked Jarrard questions regarding the potential city light, including Commissioner Jim Boff who questioned if it’s not a city light then it would be a full city.
“It can evolve under the constitution that it needs its own SPLOST or LOST, own water and sewer, police, etc. and all the taxing abilities that comes with it,” Boff said. Answering that question and others is one of the reasons Jarrard wants the second study done, saying the commissioners need the answers to their questions. “I think I know where it’s going, but I want to take the top off the constitution and get into it,” Jarrard said.
MARTIN
What was the best part of your high school experience or a favorite memory? The best part of high school was definitely the constant proximity to all my friends. Even if we didn’t have many classes together, I was within a square mile of them for about eight hours every day and it’s a lot easier to build friendships when you’re always around each other. I learned so much from the people I befriended in high school. What does it mean to you to be the valedictorian for your school? It certainly doesn’t mean that I’m the smartest person at our school. I can name many that are much more intelligent. But it does mean that I probably had the most school work piled on me, the most all-nighters of outlining world history notes and the most school work induced stress. Ultimately, I think it means that I’m quite well prepared for college and life in general. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years, I see myself in a small pueblo in Central America leading the construction of a well, bridge or housing project. I want to use my degree in Civil Engineering as a platform to help the impoverished in Central America, and also to bring them the gospel. It might take more than ten years, but hopefully I’ll eventually end up there, God willing.
Kids get free digital magazines at library FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Public Library will expand its partnership with digital magazine provider Flipster and begin offering 16 new magazine titles exclusively for children. Flipster for Kids will be available for Forsyth County Library Card holders. They can view a web-based version of their magazines or download a magazine through the Flipster app for Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. Flipster for Kids includes a variety of material for children ranging from preschoolers to elementary school students. Flipster for Kids will feature notable titles like “Ranger Rick Jr.,” “Zoobies”,
“Boys Life,” “Discovery Girls” and “Sports Illustrated Kids.” A library branch is not required to access the service, so families will find it easy to “pack” their digital magazines on vacations, picnics or short trips around town. With automatic expirations and returns, kids – and their parents – will not have to worry about late fees. When the borrowing period ends, the title will simply disappear from the child’s account and the Flipster app, if used. To browse the selection of magazines available in Flipster or Flipster for Kids and check out a digital magazine, please visit www.forsythpl. org. —Malik Jones
16 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com
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There’s a lot going on [in Alpharetta] that has either direct impact to technology companies or is interesting for them. KAREN CASHION, president of the Greater Alpharetta Tech Network
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New uses for old technology Tech businesses find homes on the Northside By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Technology is constantly changing, and this forces existing companies to change with it. It also creates an opening for new companies to come in with new and different ideas. One such company is iQagent, based in Alpharetta. They have created a mobile app that uses technology called “augmented reality” in manufacturing and industrial settings. Augmented reality is not a new technology. In essence, it is using a live video feed and adding computer-generated images on top of it. A simple example is watching football games on TV. The first down line is yellow on the screen, but different on the field. There are also logos and information on the screen that the players and those in the stadium cannot see. This addition of graphics to a feed is augmented reality. For iQagent and its founder, Bob Meads, this technology can be used in a number of new ways, but notably in the manufacturing industry. iQagent allows a user with
a tablet computer to point its camera at a machine and be able to tell vital information about it – everything from how fast something is rotting to what model number it is. Meads said this can be vital for manufacturing. If there is a problem with a machine, the employee who is sent to fix it might not be familiar with how the machine works or how to fix a particular part. They would need either a manual or instructions. With iQagent, they can use the tablet to access a manual on screen or even send a video of the issue over wireless to someone who does know what the issue is. In essence, a technician can virtually look over the shoulder of a floor worker while they tackle a problem. “When tablets like the iPad first came out, we started seeing a shift in the way people were thinking,” Meads said. “[But] the manufacturing industry has been slow to adopt laptop computers and wireless technologies. That’s changing,” He said he already has several large, multinational clients using the technology, including clients in the automotive and pharmaceutical industries. iQagent’s cutting edge concept and decision to locate in North Atlanta makes sense to Karen Cashion, president of the Greater Alpharetta Tech
Network (GATN). GATN aims to engage and foster the growth of Alpharetta’s technology industries. With close to 900 tech companies in and around the city, the need for communication and connections between them is evident. “There is a long list of offerings here for technology companies,” Cashion said. The Avalon mixed-use development is the first “gigabit community” in the state, offering the fastest Internet speeds available. It will also soon house a conference center and new hotel, allowing large companies to hold events in Alpharetta rather than downtown.
Alpharetta start-up technology company iQagent is on the cutting edge of technology, using an augmented reality app to help the manufacturing process. They say North Atlanta is a perfect place to locate. There is also what GATN itself offers. An innovation center was recently opened in Alpharetta to foster new ideas and communication among companies, especially startups like iQagent. “There’s a lot going on here that has either direct impact
to technology companies or is interesting for them,” she said. “It’s exciting to be here.” For more about iQagent, visit them online at iqagent. com. For more about GATN and upcoming networking events, visit them at gatnconnect.org.
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Forsyth Herald | June 17, 2015 | 17
Global security firm moves headquarters to Roswell By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Information security company Courion is moving its global headquarters from Westborough, Massachusetts, to Roswell as it works to expand its operations. The company says it plans to expand its existing offices in Roswell to accommodate more services and an additional 100 employees over the next couple of years. Courion established an analytical team at the Holcomb Woods office complex off Old Alabama Road in Roswell last month. Plans call for additional positions across a variety of functional areas, ranging from sales to software development. “Currently, we’re in a temporary space, and we’re building out a larger complex to host the rest of the organi-
zation as we continue to ramp up our hiring in the area,” said Venkat Rajaji, vice president of product management and marketing. “It’s not a brand new building. The building already exists.” RAJAJI Rajaji said the company’s decision to move to Roswell was based primarily on the access to a talented workforce and the proximity to other tech companies. The area has more than 115 companies and more than 200,000 people employed in the area specifically around information security. “It’s really an exciting place for us to establish our presence, grow our business, giving us access to that talent, access to a lot of really big-name
It’s really an exciting place for us to establish our presence, grow our business, giving us access to that talent, access to a lot of really big-name companies.” VENKAT RAJAJI Vice president of product management and marketing, Courion
companies,” he said. “While there are competitors here, a lot of potential partnership opportunities (exist) with companies that don’t necessarily compete with us in identity and access management.” Courion will continue to maintain offices in Massachusetts, the United Kingdom and Pune, India. Rajaji said right now, the company
is focused on launching its expansion phase and it’s difficult to predict what happens beyond the next five years. “It’s a little tough to speculate, but I will say we are invested in the Atlanta area,” he said. “As we grow our business, I also see our presence in Atlanta growing in terms of number of jobs, number of people that we bring on board.”
Banks’ robust recovery appears to be slowing Motivating your employees Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” The real estate markets are tightly coupled with one another due to underlying structural changes in banking and finance. It began with the forced bank consolidation during the savings and loan bailouts of the 1990s and has now reached a critical mass with “too big to fail” institutions resulting from the massive federal bailout of the U.S. banking system in 2008 and 2009.
FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency
Due to the regulatory changes, small and mid-size institutions remain under extreme cost pressure to consolidate. The number of banks will decrease primarily due to consolidation, not bank failure. The bulk of the refinancing
activity from 2012 and early 2014, which fueled the banking recovery, now appears to be slowing. This will likely have negative implications for lending volumes (and hence bank profitability) for 2015 and 2016. Some of this is a healthy correction as asset values have recovered from the recessionary trough in all U.S. markets. The reality is that we’ve climbed the mountain and have celebrated our ascent from the bottom, only to realize
See RECOVERY, Page 18
Housing and construction in the United States Housing starts (million units) Existing home sales (million units) New home sales (million units)
Nov.
Dec.
Jan.
Feb.
March
1.015
1.081
1.072
0.908
0.926
4.950
5.070
4.820
4.890
5.190
0.448
0.496
0.514
0.543
0.481
While running your small business, do you make it a regular habit to motivate your employees? Are you providing your employees with incentives to work hard and get their jobs done? Do you encourage your employees to be creative, solve problems and go the extra mile in doing their jobs? Motivating your employees can help improve business results, morale and the work environment at your small business. Motivating your employees isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely necessary if you want your employees to grow and be satisfied with their jobs. There is also no single strategy or tactic to automatically motivate them. Every employee is unique, and identifying ways to motivate each one in their own way is important. The most important component is providing individual attention. While teamwork is critical in running a small business, nothing beats the individual attention
DICK JONES
Founder & President Jones Simply Sales
you provide to each of your employees. This includes not only providing praise for an individual, but also showing them that you care about their success. A lot of small business owners think that money is the only motivator they can use. Here’s a hint…a paycheck alone doesn’t cut it. While financial incentives certainly can be used to motivate employees, the most successful motivators are often times non-monetary. Running a successful small business requires that you continually look for ways to motivate your employees so that you can get the best performance possible from each of them.
BusinessPosts
18 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Hop Alley celebrates two years of business By JIM LICHTENWALTER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Alpharetta’s Hop Alley Brew Pub celebrated two years of business June 12 with a pig roast and a plan for future growth. They did a similar event for their first anniversary. “Every time we have a party, we have to go bigger,” said owner and operator Brandon Hintz. “The people here are such supporters of local businesses.” Situated across from City Hall, Hintz said Hop Alley is known for “a completely different atmosphere, beer selection and good food.” In addition to brewing a collection of their own beers in-house, the restaurant also serves a unique variety of craft beers. Hop Alley is one of many local restaurants and establishments located in the downtown Alpharetta area, including Smokejack Southern Grill and BBQ, South Main Kitchen, the Corner Deli, Made Kitchen and Grill and La Casa Italian Grill. “Having a vibrant restau-
Hop Alley pig roast. rant scene is a huge boost to local economy and local retail,” said Hans Appen, president of the Alpharetta Chamber of
Commerce. “It creates a fantastic work and play environment.” With its menu and beer
selection, he said Hop Alley bolsters that “work and play” environment in downtown Alpharetta.
BusinessBriefs
MERGERS:
CONSTRUCTION:
WellStar Health System, Emory end merger talks MARIETTA, Ga. – WellStar Health System announced June 9 it has ended talks with Emory University to create a unified health system that would have provided in-patient care and advanced health care throughout metro Atlanta and the rest of the region. The two sides began merger discussions earlier this year, using the time to iron out details and speak with constituents. Both agreed, once a plan had been set in place, the merger would take about a year to complete. But on Tuesday, Gary Miller, chair of WellStar Board of Trustees, said the company was ending talks with Emory and pursuing other partners. “After a few months of discussion and review with Emory University, the WellStar Board of Trustees has determined a new strategic direction,” Miller said. “We respect Emory University as a leading, international academic medical center.” As previously announced, WellStar is enacting its succession plan by which Candice Saunders will assume the duties of president and chief executive officer effective July 1, and Reynold Jennings will be named chief strategy officer. In a statement issued after the announcement, Emory University said it regrets the WellStar decision. “Emory continues to believe that the proposed combination of Emory Healthcare and WellStar Health System would serve our communities well as a way to extend the benefits of our renowned academic medical center to a larger population of patients in metro Atlanta, as well as the state of Georgia and beyond,” the statement read.
Ariana Home Furnishings building own shop CUMMING, Ga. — Ariana Home Furnishings is moving across the street from The Collection Forsyth, more than doubling its space by building its own shop. The new location is at 325 Brannon Road at the intersection with Peachtree Parkway. The project is zoned for 4.9 acres and is 213,444 square feet. The estimated completion is the end of August.
JOBS:
Metro unemployment rate drops to 5.6 percent ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Labor announced that metro Atlanta’s unemployment rate for April was 5.6 percent, down three-tenths of a percentage point from 5.9 percent in March. This is the lowest the rate has been since May 2008, when it was 5.6 percent. The rate in April 2014 was 6.4 percent. The rate fell as employers added jobs and laid off fewer workers. The number of jobs in Atlanta increased by 21,000, or 0.8 percent, in April to 2,566,300, up from 2,545,300 in March. All job sectors grew. Most of the job gains came in leisure and hospitality, 7,400; professional and business services, 4,800; construction, 2,200; and financial activities, 2,000. For more information, visit www.gdol.ga.gov.
Appen also stressed the importance of downtown’s “walkability,” especially as the new City Center nears competition, and said restaurants like Hop Alley have been “great partners for special events” taking place in and around Alpharetta. Looking forward another two years, Hintz said he would like to see his business expand into a production brewery in addition to the restaurant. But before that happens, the state of Georgia would have to revise and amend its alcohol laws. Currently in Georgia, the same owner cannot be both an alcohol distributor – which Hop Alley is classified as – and alcohol producer. Changing the alcohol laws “could take some time,” Hintz said. Until then, beer fans will have to make do with the collection of beers brewed within the bar. For more information on the restaurant, visit hopalleybrew.com. For more about the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce, visit www.alpharettachamber.com.
Recovery: Continued from Page 17 the climb is only half over. Now we must keep from falling off the path to the top of the mountain. Norton Native Intelligence is tracking more than a handful of regional and small-town banks sitting on a nest of cracked bad eggs. The “recovery” wave has not reached Georgia’s secondary markets supported by local industries on second homes. The FDIC relaxed its grip so they have held on, but the reality of a rebound is over and a long winter of discontent is closing the prospects of profits. We believe these troubled assets will be cast off in a slow burn over the next nine quarters. Speaking of finance, cash still controls the world. It is now estimated that individuals and corporations are sitting on stacks of money in excess of a trillion dollars. Mom and Pop have become lenders to their children, companies are on the hunt for undervalued expansion opportunities and big companies are buying big companies. Never in the history of modern business have balance sheets looked so flush.
CALENDAR
EDITOR’S PICKS
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CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL & 5K ROAD RACE
5K road race, two live bands, live entertainment, and every runner of legal age receives a free beer from official race beer. June 20 at 8 p.m. Corner Deli, 10 Roswell Street in Alpharetta. On-site registration is $35 for the 5K Road Race and $50 for the Craft Beer Festival Visit worldshoppiest5k.com for more info.
BLUES FOR DIXIE
Celebration of the blues and classic rock of the 1960s and 70s. Featuring the Local Legends Band of Canton, Feedback from Coal Mountain, Jerry Farr, Stan Estes and other guests. June 20 at 8 p.m. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street. $15. Visit playhousecumming.com for more info.
MUSIC:
CROCK FEST FEAT. LYNARD SKYNARD
What: Lynard Skynard performs with Travis Tritt and Blackberry Smoke. When: Friday, June 19 Hours: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, 2200 Encore Parkway in Alpharetta Web: vzwamp.com
JAZZ TRUMPETER WADE BAKER
What: For a blend of traditional jazz and modern sound check out Wade Baker at the Velvet Note. When: Friday, June 26 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Where: The Velvet Note 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta Cost: $22 Web: thevelvetnote.com
For a 1980s throwback check out the Molly Ringwalds band performance. Saturday, June 20 at 7 p.m. Newtown Park Amphitheater, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. Free. Visit johnscreekga.gov for more info.
SUMMER SOLSTICE PADDLE
DOUGHNUTS WITH DAD
What: Celebrate the Summer Solstice on a journey out on the Chattahoochee. After the paddle, feel free to bring a picnic to enjoy around the campfire. When: Saturday, June 20 Hours: 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell Cost: $40 General Public and $30 for members. Info: Ages 16 and up. Registration required by June 18 Web: chattnaturecenter.org
What: A special morning for children to spend with their dads. There will be coffee, juice, snacks, entertainment and a keepsake photo for all participants. When: June 20, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Where: Wills Park Recreation Center, 11925 Wills Road in Alpharetta Info: Space is limited for this free program. Pre-registration is required. Contact: 678-297-6130
Enjoy a campfire with marshmallows, explore the great outdoors and more at the Backyard Campout. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Saturday, June 27 at 5 p.m. $50 per tent. Register by June 24. Call 770-992-2055 or visit chattnaturecenter.org For more info. Cost: $5 Web: roswellgov.com
BREAKFAST WITH BUTTERFLIES
What: Join the Chattahoochee Nature Center to enjoy a light breakfast, explore the grounds, and experience the Butterfly Encounter. When: Sunday, June 21 Hours: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Cost: 20 general public or $15 for CNC members Web: chattnaturecenter.org Info: Ages 16 and up. Registration required by June 18th (limited spaces) to scheduling@ chattnaturecenter.org or (770) 992-2055 ext. 237.
RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER SHERMAN’S MARCH IN (SOUTHERN) PERSPECTIVE
EVENTS: MEDICINAL PLANTS WORKSHOP
What: Explore the world of medicinal plants with Lisa Cole and Carrie Redroot Radcliffe, highlighting seasonally relevant herbs including Elder, Mints, Plantain, and St. John’s Wort. When: Saturday, June 20 Hours: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road Roswell, GA 30075 Cost: $30 General Public, $25 for CNC Members Web: chattnaturecenter.org
MOLLY RINGWALDS SUMMER CONCERT
GREAT AMERICAN BACKYARD CAMPOUT
SLEEPING BEAUTY
What: Don’t miss Tanglewood Marionettes’ enchanting presentation of this beloved classic. When: June 15 to 27 Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street in Roswell Cost: $5 or $30 for season passes Web: roswellgov.com
What: Stephen Davis, author of “What the Yankees Did to Us,” will present his lecture “Sherman’s March in (Southern) Perspective” at Barrington Hall. When: June 17, 6:30 to 9p.m. Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive in Roswell Cost: $5 Contact: 770-640-3855
BILLY GOATS GRUFF AND OTHER STUFF
What: Billy Goats Gruff and Other Stuff turns your favorite nursery rhymes on their ears. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center When: Wednesday, June 24 at 1 p.m.
What: Presented by Atlanta Plays it Forward, the Reflections Big Band will perform under the stars at the Chattahoochee Nature Center Pavilion. Bring a picnic basket, your own lawn chairs, and dine during the show. When: Jun 21, 6 p.m. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road Cost: General admission $15; Pavilion level: $40 table for two, $75 table for 4, $110 table for 6, $145 table for 8. Tables and chairs provided. Web: Advance reservation required. www. atlantaplaysitforward.org or www.chattnaturecenter.org
3RD ANNUAL ATLANTA MOON RIDE
What: The Atlanta Moon Ride is a fun, safe, 6.5-mile bike
SHANNON WEAVER Calendar Editor calendar@appenmediagroup.com
Submit your event to northfulton. com or email with photo to calendar@northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.
ride through Atlanta’s coolest neighborhoods without having to battle traffic. Participants are encouraged to ride with flair - dressing in costume, decorative helmets, glow sticks - anything goes. All proceeds will benefit Bert’s Big Adventure! When: June 19, 2015 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Where: Piedmont Park 400 Park Drive Cost: $30 General Admission, $25 Team tickets of 10 people or more Web: www.atlantamoonride. com
YP MIX AND MINGLE: ALEX KATZ, THIS IS NOW
What: Join your fellow Young Professionals for a night of friends, fun, and art! Meet and mingle at TAP Gastropub, complete with light bites, drink specials, and valet parking. Additional drinks and food will be available for purchase in our private gathering area. At 8 p.m., head over to the High to celebrate the opening of Alex Katz, This Is Now and stop along the way to enjoy the Los Trompos: Dad’s Garage Theatre special performance. When: June 19, 2015 6:3010:00 p.m. Where: High Museum of Art 1280 Peachtree Street, N.E. Cost: Free for Young Professional members Web: www.high.org
20 | June 17, 2015 | Forsyth Herald
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Cooking with daughter Daisy Schlapman.
At home in the kitchen Serving up Southern classics with Little Big Town’s Kimberly Schlapman By KATIE VANBRACKLE katievanbrackle@northsidewoman. com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Kimberly Schlapman is a founding member of the Grammy Awardwinning country music band Little Big Town, a group known for beautiful four-part harmonies and chart-topping hits like “Pontoon” and “Day Drinkin’.” The petite blonde with wild curls, tall stilettos and a high-pitched Southern drawl is perfectly at ease on a performance stage, but her favorite entertaining is done behind the scenes, with family and friends in the warmth of her Nashville kitchen. Schlapman grew up in the North Georgia town of Cornelia, “sitting counterside” as her mother and grandmothers served up Southern comfort food and life lessons. “Aside from learning to cook, I learned how important it is to share time in the kitchen with people you love, to nourish your family and to foster friendships,” she said. “Our families’ kitchens were where I found my passion and my voice. I’ve been cooking since I could stir a pot. It’s therapeutic for me. It fills up my heart.” As the host of “Kimberly’s Southern Kitchen,” a popular television cooking show, Kimberly regularly shares recipes with her fans, but recently, she offered a closer glimpse into her heart with the publication of her first cookbook, “Oh, Gussie! Cooking and Visiting in Kimberly’s Southern Kitchen.”
“I wanted it to be a bit of memoir, to tell stories of growing up in the North Georgia hills and share cherished recipes from my mother and grandmothers,” she explained to fans in Norcross, Georgia, who gathered in May as part of the Gwinnett Public Library’s Meet the Author series. The book also shares tales of travels on the road with her band, and from the life she loves at home in country music’s capital. Leaning casually on the podium, she charmed the room with her big smile and warm manner as she shared the story of how her grandparents met, mooned over her mother’s homemade biscuits and described cooking with her 7-year-old daughter, Daisy. “We let the flour fly and clean up later!” she said with a laugh. Family is clearly the most important thing in Kimberly’s life, even in the midst of a successful music career. Little Big Town averages about 200 days per year out on the road, much of it spent with families in tow. “Three couples, three children, nannies, a band and crew. We’re quite the traveling circus at times,” she said. Kimberly installed a small convection oven in her tour bus and does what she can to enjoy a taste of home out on the road, such as warm, bubbling Vidalia Onion Dip, a favorite of bandmate Phillip Sweet. From the very beginning,
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY WILLIAM MORROW
Country music star Kimberly Schlapman.
Kimberly’s cooking has been a part of Little Big Town’s routine. “When the band first came together, we would meet at my house a lot. Karen, Jimi and Phillip would come over and we would brainstorm ideas like band names or musical direction and we’d work up songs. And I would always cook. A good rehearsal cannot happen without some good sustenance,” she said, adding that her bandmates were willing guinea pigs for some of the recipes in her book, such as the Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake which Jimi Westbrook often requests on his birthday. Other recipes include Turkey Meatballs which she once made on her cooking show with fellow country music star Martina McBride, and Grilled Brioche with Warm Honey Strawberries, a particular favorite of Sugarland’s Kristian Bush. Most recipes, however, are
from her family, such as Paula’s House Full of Folks Breakfast Casserole, which is served every Christmas morning at Kimberly’s mother’s home. Friendly Coconut Pie is included because “there comes a time when somebody you know needs a pie. I’m not saying pie can fix anything, but what I am saying is that taking a friend a pie – stopping in and showing up – well, that can only help.” Several recipes feature honey, which plays a role in each Little Big Town performance. According to Kimberly, before every show, “we gather together in a little huddle for a quick prayer and some rowdy words of encouragement. Afterward, we pass around a honey bear, tilting back our heads, each taking a squeeze to soothe our throats before we go out and start singing.” Drizzling honey over roasted figs reminds Kimberly of the gigantic, shady fig trees from her childhood home, where she fought off yellow jackets each summer to get to the juicy, sweet morsels. When she moved to Nashville, her husband Stephen planted a fig tree in the yard, a surprise Kimberly calls “one of the sweetest gifts I’ve ever been
given.” When pressed to choose a favorite recipe from the book, Kimberly was true to her North Georgia roots. Her grandmother’s Fresh Glazed Apple Cake is an appropriate choice for a gal from Cornelia, where a 15-foot tall, bright red apple replica stands in the middle of downtown, next to the railroad depot. “I come from Apple Country and I’m an apple snob,” Kimberly said proudly. “Don’t give me some old, mushy apple. This cake is one of my favorite things to eat when I come home to Georgia.” Little Big Town will head to Nashville on June 10 for the live broadcast of the annual Country Music Awards. The group has won CMA’s Vocal Group of the Year three years in a row and is nominated in the same category yet again for 2015. But even as Kimberly’s star continues to rise, she stays firmly grounded with her deep, Georgia roots. “A few weeks ago, I held a cookbook signing event in my hometown of Cornelia,” she recalled. “We sold over 600 books that day. It was so humbling, so emotional, and so incredibly special to see all those people – people who raised me – lined up to welcome me home.”
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main purpose of the study is to cut the blood supply off to try and kill it. We’ve got it down 65 percent.” Addison’s success with the study is rare. “She’s the only patient in the world out of adults and kids that’s made it on this study,” said Compton. “There have only been three other pediatric patients on it and they’ve all passed.” Addison can live with the tumor the rest of her life so long as it doesn’t grow. Meanwhile, Addison’s parents take her to chemo once a week in Atlanta. “I had to put my daughter’s life in somebody else’s hands,” said Compton. “That was very hard. We’re doing well now.” To help families like the Comptons, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, the world’s largest nongovernmental provider of childhood brain tumor research, puts on national Ride for Kids charity events. “The Ride for Kids is a national series of 37 events around the country,” said Ride for Kids Associate National Director Jerry Harvey. “We have events from coast to
Nichols College DUDLEY, Mass. – Kendall Humphrey of Alpharetta was named to the Dean’s List for the 2014 fall semester at Nichols College.
Wheaton College WHEATON, Ill. – Deborah Kim of Johns Creek was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester at Wheaton College. Kim is majoring in communications with a concentration in interpersonal communication.
Troy University
PHOTO BY CATHY GULLO
Jessica Schnute, sitting on the back of a motorcycle, returns from the ride. coast and border to border.” On June 7, Ride for Kids returned to Cumming with 652 people and 311 motorcycles in tow. Among them, 21 children were recognized for battling brain cancer or being brain cancer survivors. A total of
$123,568.04 dollars was raised. “Without [Ride for Kids] these studies wouldn’t be possible and my daughter wouldn’t be here,” said Compton. “So, it means a lot to us. We love our baby. She’s a mess.”
TROY, Ala. – The following local students were named to the Chancellor’s List for the 2014 fall semester at Troy University: Erica Davis of Cumming, Christa Jones of Roswell, MacKenzie Kayler of Roswell and Reina Terry of Milton.
majoring in criminal justice.
Lehigh University BETHLEHEM, Pa. – William Johns of Johns Creek was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester at Lehigh University.
McKendree University LEBANON, Ill. – Steven Bradtmueller of Suwanee, a junior majoring in accounting, was named to the Dean’s List for the 2014 fall semester.
Valdosta State University VALDOSTA, Ga. – The following local students made the Dean’s List for the summer 2014 semester at Valdosta State University: Katherine Nicole Onushko of Alpharetta, Victoria Diane Papadelis of Duluth and Kaylee Coopersmith Taylor of Johns Creek.
Charleston Southern University Bates College CHARLESTON, S.C. – Patrick Hamilton McClure of Alpharetta was named to the Dean’s List for the 2014 fall semester at Charleston Southern University. McClure is a junior
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