Forsyth Herald - December 1, 2016

D e c e m b e r 1 , 2 0 1 6 | 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 1 9 , N o . 4 8

Celebrate Christmas in Forsyth County The Collection at Forsyth kicked off the holiday season Nov. 27 at its annual tree lighting event. Santa and Mrs. Claus were in attendance to help light the tree. The Forsyth Festival Singers from the Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts sang holiday tunes.

Greenway expands into Halcyon Ground broken on new stretch of multi-use trail ►►PAGE 4

CASA names director Lori Pupp takes role ►►PAGE 4

Cumming ES wins Golden Radish Given based on healthy food options ►►PAGE 6

Forsyth schools calendar approved Classes start Aug. 3 ►►PAGE 11

Forsyth passes billboard moratorium Allows county to catch up to technology ►►PAGE 18

Real Estate Report COLLECTIONFORSYTH.COM

Sponsored section ►►PAGE 22

2 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

PUBLIC SAFETY

Sale of electronics results in theft 770-442-3278 | ForsythHerald.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 118 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 143 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102

POLICE BLOTTER

TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL: News: news@appenmediagroup.com Press Releases: NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar ADVERTISING QUESTIONS: General Advertising: ex. 101 advertising@appenmediagroup.com Classified Advertising: ex. 119 classifieds@appenmediagroup.com Circulation/Subscriptions/Delivery: ex. 100 circulation@appenmediagroup.com Our Weekly Publications

28,000 Circulation

20,000 Circulation

17,000 Circulation

10,000 Circulation

Our Monthly Publications

20,000 Circulation

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A private vendor met a man outside a local store Nov. 19 to sell two pieces of electronics.

The seller was in his car conducting supply inventory when a man approached him. The man said he was interested in purchasing the seller’s iPhone and iPad. The seller told the man they should pull up to the front of the building, and they did so.

18,000 Circulation

Our Companion Websites

Visit AppenMediaGroup.com for more information.

The Herald Newspapers are published by Appen Media Group, 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta Ga. 30009.

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.

Ring reported stolen during house showing FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman told deputies her engagement ring was stolen during a real estate open house.

The 38-year-old woman said she was in a rush to leave her home because of the showing and she left her diamond ring on the vanity in the master bathroom. When she returned, she

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 ►► Martin Martinez-Palomares, 38,

of Eagles Crest Village, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 19 on Buford Dam Road in Cumming for DUI and speeding. ►► Timothy William Garn, 54, of Maple Valley Drive, Cumming, was arrested Oct. 8 on Highway 9 in Cumming for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Andrew John Paget, 26, of Grange Way, Cumming, was arrested Oct. 9 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane, and open container.

UGLY DRIVEWAY? Save $50 on any job over $300 Cannot combine with other offers. Expires 10 days after publication.

New Driveways | Patios Pavers | Stone and More

Dave McKemey: 678-648-2010

The man followed and was holding the electronics while looking at them when the seller asked the man to go inside the store to finish the purchase.

The man then took off with the items running across the street. The seller tried to catch him, but couldn’t do so.

Deputies were alerted and the items were reported as stolen.

said the ring was missing.

She told deputies she was in contact with the real estate agent who was in contact with those who had conducted the showing. There hasn’t been any contact from that agent so far.

The ring is described as 1.7 karat emerald cut center diamond with two small baguettes on each side, set in white gold and appraised for $21,000.

Man returns home to discover burglary FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man said he was burglarized after various people had been staying in his home.

The man rents his home for people ►► Gabrielle Nicole Raihala, 22, of

Millhaven Street, Smyrna, was arrested Nov. 16 on Brannon Road in Cumming for DUI, possession of marijuana, failure to yield, and unlawful to cross guard lines with weapons. ►► Kody Pierce Copp, 24, of Steeplechase, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 16 on Canton Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to yield. ►► James Edward Mossburg, 43, of Northwood Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 19 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI. ►► Kaitlyn M. Giannone, 22, Spring Creek Lane, Sandy Springs, was arrested Nov. 19 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, and open container. ►► Obeth Gamaliel Zamudio-Delgado, 22, of Leighton Drive, Gainesville, was arrested Nov. 18 on Ga. 400 in

through the AirBnB website. A woman contacted him to arrange a week-long stay while the man would be out of town on work. The man said he changed his lock codes in between each visitor.

Prior to her staying, the man arranged through Craigslist for a man from Atlanta to come clean his home.

The cleaner reportedly called the man and asked if the house was empty and what the access code was. The man said he received several photos of the clean home.

After the homeowner returned from his trip, he discovered two of his TVs were missing. He called the cleaner who denied any knowledge of the theft.

Deputies found no forced entry into the home.

Cumming for DUI, reckless driving, no license, and speeding. ►► Veronica Ann Hill, 48, of Ivey Springs Chase, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 19 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

Drug arrests ►► Angelea Gale Motz, 22, of Onagh

Court, Milton, was arrested Nov. 1 on Old Dogwood Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana, possession of drug related items, headlight required and possession of a schedule I & II controlled substance. ► ► Lucious Wright, 27, of Rampart Place, Stone Mountain, was arrested Oct. 29 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana.

Like us on facebook facebook.com/AppenMediaGroup

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 3

Is Laser Cataract Surgery Really Better?

By Cameron Johnson, M.D.

In recent years there has been much publicity about laser–assisted cataract surgery.

This surgery uses a laser to perform portions of the procedure. These include making small incisions, creating a round opening called a capsulorhexis on the front of the cataract, and breaking the lens into pieces which can be sucked out. These portions of the surgery are usually performed manually with surgical instruments.

Is Seeing the Crossword Puzzle Harder than Solving It? Could be Cataracts.

Cameron Johnson, M.D.

Using a laser allows these steps to be performed more precisely and to the same specifications every time. It has been predicted that by making the capsulorhexis with a laser, it may improve patient’s chances of not needing distance glasses after surgery due to the lens sitting in a more predictable location in the eye.

Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Also, when the laser is used to “soften” the lens up prior to removal, it takes less energy to remove the lens and this may result in less swelling of the eye and faster visual recovery.

At this time, clinical trials have not yet proven laser cataract surgery to be superior to manual cataract surgery. One study did show less swelling and improved vision at 1 day and 1 week after surgery, but there was no difference in outcomes at 6 months. Most studies looking at the need for glasses after surgery have shown no difference in the percentage of patients dependent on glasses, although one showed a small improvement with laser surgery. Complication rates have been shown to be very low with both manual and laser cataract surgery, although there have been slightly higher rates reported with laser surgery.

It is a testament to the great outcomes that are currently achieved with standard cataract surgery, that so far it has been difficult to prove that lasers are superior. More studies are needed to find the definitive answer to this question.

Does Cataract Surgery Last Forever?

I am occasionally asked by a patient, “If I have cataract surgery now, will I need it again in the future?” They are always relieved when I tell them that cataracts do not grow back. In order to understand why, it is important to know that a cataract is the natural human lens that has gotten cloudy.

When cataract surgery is performed, this cloudy lens is removed while leaving behind the “bag” that the lens was sitting in. A new, clear artificial lens it then placed in this bag. Once the natural lens is removed, it does not come back. The artificial lens is designed to last for the rest of your life.

There are some patients who note their vision gradually becoming cloudy starting some months after cataract surgery. This can happen in about 20% of patients due to microscopic lens cells that remain in the “bag” after cataract surgery. Sometimes, these cells multiply forming a sheet of scar tissue behind the artificial lens. It this occurs, a low risk procedure can be performed with a laser to create a window in the scar tissue, returning the vision to the clarity that was present right after cataract surgery.

Milan R. Patel, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Niraj Desai, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Samir Vira, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Cameron Johnson, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Vandana Reddy, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Remember, your deductible resets January 1, 2017.

SERVICES WE OFFER: • Bladeless Cataract Surgery • Diabetic Eye Examination • Dry Eye Management • Corneal Transplant • Glaucoma • Ocular Emergencies Evaluation/Management • Pterygium Surgery

MILAN EYE CENTER Johns Creek | Cumming | Canton | Buford | Roswell | Dahlonega

470-326-0330

Call to make your appointment: Learn more: milaneyecenter.com

NEWS

4 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Halcyon breaks ground on Greenway extension Local Service

SPECIALS 10%-$250 Off TREE SERVICES

770Tree.com

Pre-Screened Local Tree Services. We do all the homework, so you don’t have to.

Screened and vetted local services.

WET BASEMENT?

$250 OFF

250 OFF full basement solutions over 100’or $150 OFF basement solutions less than 100’.Water-proofing and Mold Repair, Crawl Space Encapsulation, Foundation/ Walls Bowing or Cracked. Solutions.

Guaranteed. Discount only by mentioning this ad.

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Pls Call Aquaguard for quote 678-250-4470 $

LANDSCAPING

$150-$250 OFF

Take $150 off any job over $1500 or $250 off any job over $3500. Degreed in Horticulture. Call Tad 678-648-2012

ELECTRICAL

$30 OFF

Any Electrical Work.

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Rated A++ by BBB • Many local referrences

Call 678-648-2011

New customers only. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Limit one coupon per household. Expires 10 days after publication.

DRIVEWAY REPAIR

SAVE $250

$250 OFF any job over $3500 $50 OFF any job over $300 Cannot combine with other offers.

Expires 10 days after publication.

Honest • Professional • Competitive Many Local References • Free Estimates

Dave McKemey 678-648-2010

12-foot paved trail expands along Big Creek

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County’s future mixed-use development, Halcyon, recently broke ground on an extension to the Big Creek Greenway, expected to be completed next year.

The Greenway is a 12-foot wide multi-use trail that currently spans 9.6 miles through Forsyth County.

Halcyon’s developer is constructing an extension that will lengthen the trail by 0.75 miles along Big Creek.

The expansion includes a new paved and lit parking lot, restrooms and a trailhead.

This expansion will tie into the sidewalks along Ronald Reagan Boulevard, and will lead to the eventual connection to the Alpharetta Big Creek Greenway.

The trail will weave into the Halcyon development, which is being developed

by RocaPoint Partners and The Georgetown Company.

Progress is underway for an expansion to the Big Creek Greenway.

Plans call for the extension to weave seamlessly into the walkable community of Halcyon, according to Patrick Leonard, principal of RocaPoint.

“With the development of the Atlanta BeltLine and all of the wonderful economic, community and environmental progress that has resulted, we strongly believe we will see a similar pattern of success here in Forsyth County,” Leonard said.

Nature trails and parks connect to the Big Creek Greenway, which has additional phases planned to expand the trail to 15 miles.

Halcyon, currently under construction, will include more than 480,000 square feet of office and retail space, the only dine-in movie theater in the county, two hotels and 690 residential units, once completed. It will be located off Exit 12 on Ga. 400.

Lori Pupp named CASA director

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Lori Pupp, a long-standing staple of Forsyth County’s Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA, has been named the group’s new director.

“I am truly honored to have been selected for this position and look forward to continuing the work of our CASA program,” Pupp said. “The calm dedication of our staff and volunteers is exemplary and a guiding light as we continue working together to help the children who need a voice in court.”

Pupp has been in child welfare for

16 years including experience as a case manager and supervisor at the local Department of Family and Child Services office, and has been with CASA for nine years.

The mission of CASA is to advocate PUPP for the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in Forsyth County Juvenile Court Dependency matters.

Based on the belief that every child is entitled to a safe and supportive home, CASA works through trained

GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds

ALPHARETTA: GOLF WAREHOUSE SALE: 1060 Union Center Drive Suite D, 30004. Saturday 12/3, 10am-3pm. Men’s and Women’s Blem Golf Shoes from $4.99, New Apparel from $9.99 and some accessories.

DEADLINE

To place garage sale ads: Noon Monday.

Call 770-442-3278 or email classifieds@appenmediagroup.com

volunteers in collaboration with key agencies, legal counsel and community resources to serve as the child’s advocate in the court system.

She began at CASA as an advocacy case manager directly supporting the volunteers until 2014 when she became the director over the advocacy programming.

“I am hoping to be able to provide our CASA volunteers and office team with every resource available to afford every abused and neglected child in Forsyth County with the voice they deserve,” Pupp said.

Donna Kukarola, chair of CASA’s board of directors, said Pupp brings dependability and commitment to CASA, as well as her strong ties to the community.

“She will further develop our solid base of volunteer advocates, community collaborations and donor support,” Kukarola said. “We have high expectations of what Lori will accomplish. And we are excited to be able to appoint someone from within the CASA organization to this position.”

To learn more about CASA of Forsyth County or about becoming a volunteer child advocate, call 770-8864082 or visit forsythcountycasa.org.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 5

Introducing the new

The contact lens for your ear.

100% INVISIBLE

FREE 30 DAY TRIAL

SPECIAL HEARING EVENT December 5th –December 9th CALL IMMEDIATELY. APPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED 404-400-5950 Lyric is the world’s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, shower proof, sleep in it for months-at-a-time hearing device.

Lyric* can help you change your life without changing the way you live. We are excited to offer this Lyric Consultation to you absolutely free.

1 2

SHOWER PROOF NO BATTERIES TO CHANGE CLEAR NATURAL SOUND NO DAILY INSERTION/ REMOVAL REQUIRED PAINLESS INSERTION NO SURGERY

Individual replacement needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions.

Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2016. All rights reserved.

As seen on:

MEET OUR AWARD WINNING DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY

Dr. Stephany Sun, Au. D. Audiologist and Factory Trained Expert Dr. BetsyMosier Au.D. Audiologist and Factory Trained Expert Dr. Erin Luckett Au.D. Audiologist and Factory Trained Expert Dr. Kristen Howze King, Au.D. Audiologist and Industry Expert

ALPHARETTA / JOHNS CREEK 4190 Old Milton Pkwy, Suite 2E., Alpharetta, Ga 30003

We offer the highest level of products and services at the lowest prices. Guaranteed. Come see us and find out for yourself.

KENNESAW / MARIETTA 1200 Ernest Barrett Parkway suite 124 Kennesaw Ga 30144 In Floor and Decor shopping center.

CANTON / WOODSTOCK 1437 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 105 Canton, Ga 30114 In Publix shopping center

www.SouthernMedicalHearing.com

LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER

Other Locations in Augusta, GA, Dalton GA, Chattanooga, TN & Cleveland, TN 100% Digital Open-Fit BTE (Open Fit Behind-the-Ear) Fits up to 40 db Loss

Phonak Q30 Offer ends May 13 Included in this Special Offer: Free Hearing

MSRP $2,600

$695

Now Was - $1295

SCHOOLS

6 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

CD Specials 1.25%

APY*

18-Month CD

1.00%

APY*

12-Month CD

*Annual Percentage Yield. Minimum balance to open and earn special rate(s) is $500.00. Penalty for early withdrawal.

No brokered deposits accepted. Special rate available for first term of new money deposits only.

1817 N. Brown Rd, Lawrenceville, GA 30043

embassynationalbank.com • (770) 822-9111

Serving your community for over 15 years.

We offer a 10 year warranty on structural construction.

LICENSED & INSURED

Cumming ES wins Golden Radish award Forsyth one of 53 districts honored

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — When winning an award, some may want a trophy or a cash prize, but for school systems aiming to give their students better food options, victory comes in the form of a golden radish.

Cumming Elementary School was recently recognized for its many healthy food options, earning it, and the county, Golden Radish award at the silver level. The award is given to Local Educational Agencies in the state who are doing work in farm to school programs and are awarded in four levels: gold, silver, bronze and honorary.

The award is presented by the Georgia Department of Education, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Department of Public Health, the UGA Cooperative Extension and Georgia Organics.

The district was recognized for: • Locally grown foods were featured on menus 161 times, produce from an elementary school garden.

• 10 schools have active school gardens that are maintained by students. Parents and volunteers

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMMINGES

Cumming Elementary School Assistant Principal Jordan Livermore congratulates Cafeteria Manager Marcia Outler.

assist with the school gardens, farm to school lessons, taste tests and more.

• 29 taste tests were conducted often centered around items growing in school gardens, such as bok choy and asparagus.

BEST team members Ryker Hull, Christopher Tan, Jonathan Copeland, Aparna Arul, Rachel Champagne, Matt Ramberger, Dennis Jin, Grant Champagne and Sweta Munagapati pose with the BEST Award trophy after their victory.

Specializing in Construction, Renovation, & Repair • Patios/Pool Decks • Pools & Spas • Outdoor Kitchens • Arbors • Brick & Stone • Chimneys/Fireplace • Decorative Concrete/Pavers • Decks • Driveways • Grading & Drainage • Retaining Walls • Stone/Tile Deck Waterproofing & Leak Repair

404.478.9563

josh@southernoutdoorcd.com • www.southernoutdoorcd.com

SFHS BEST Robotics Team wins award FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The South Forsyth High School BEST Robotics Team won the BEST Award at the Georgia BEST Robotics Competition Saturday, Nov. 5, at GSU Perimeter College Clarkston Campus.

The team was given six weeks to build and program a robot that would operate an irrigation valve, harvest vegetables, and plant seeds. In addition, the team created a company and marketing materials that covered community outreach, an 8-foot by 8-foot exhibit, an oral marketing presentation, t-shirt design, 30-page notebook with research paper and a web site. The team, sponsored by Automation Direct and Siemens, will proceed to South’s BEST regional championship in Auburn, Alabama, Dec. 3-4.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 7

E XPERIENCE THE GOOD LIFE

• Sweeping Mountain Views • Within the Golf Course Community of Laurel Canyon • Club House • Swimming Pool • Tennis Courts • Sky Terraces Available • Outdoor Living Options: Covered Porches, Fireplaces and Fire Pits • Minutes from Downtown Canton

$5,000

Design Center Credit*

and $5,000 in Closing Costs *On contracts written by 12/31/16. $5,000 in closing costs with preferred lender.

Some restrictions apply; ask sales consultant for details.

See Agent for details. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. ® Equal Housing Opportunity.

From the High $300s PMCOMMUNITIES.COM 770-254-5357

400 Laurel Canyon Parkway, Canton, GA

8 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

OPINION

Governor’s idea for failing schools needs rethinking Gov. Nathan Deal’s plan to help Georgia’s failing schools had its heart in the right place but not its head.

Georgia’s high school graduation rate is a dismal 72.5 HATCHER HURD percent according to Executive Editor hatcher@appenmediagroup.com the National Center for Education Statistics. That is not news. It has been dismal for the 60-plus years I have lived in this state.

The idea of the governor of the state coming forward with a bold new initiative to help those schools with worst test scores to turn around is truly wonderful.

But the Georgia voters read between the lines.

The idea that some state-operated school district would be set up to take on up to 20 of those “failing schools” just didn’t pass the smell test.

First, where are these students going to go? Was the plan to bus them all to the state Capitol for remedial math, English and ‘rithmetic?

There were precious few details and just how the state would miracle up these super teachers who would turn mostly poor students into scholars.

Of course the first chink in the plan was to blame the schools, and by extension the teachers. (Note of disclosure here. My daughter is a teacher.)

Yes, let’s blame the schools and not look at any of the socio-economic problems that affect students’ abilities to learn. Let’s not think about generational poverty and the fact that today’s high school diploma is not a ticket to a job paying more than minimum wage.

This was the wrong election year to ask voters to trust the career politicians to fix broken schools.

The governor won no points either in the way the state would fund what it was calling a “state-operated school district” for up to 20 schools among the 127 schools identified as failing.

The Augusta Chronicle described the funding as coming from “a per-student share of all local, state and federal funds coming into the school districts in which the schools are located.”

That’s right, the state would bleed white the poorest school districts – which is where these 127 failing schools are most likely to be – to pay for what exactly?

Details of just what this state-operated school district would look like are sorely lacking, except to say they would stay in the system for up to 10

years, all the while sucking local school districts dry.

And who would be teaching these students? Why for-profit “charter schools.” That goes a long way toward explaining the money behind the expensive TV ad campaign leading up to the Nov. 8 constitutional referendum.

There is a lot of profit in for-profit education.

Look at the success Louisiana, Tennessee and North Carolina have had, we were asked. The truth is the jury is still out if these “cures” for the failing schools have made any real differences at all.

No, this looks like just another attempt to make public tax money portable for any parent who wants to take their child to a private school.

A school district spends between $5,000 and $8,000 to educate one child. So the charter schools want $5,000 to $8,000 to educate that same child. There is just one problem. That figure is not the cost to educate anyone’s child.

That number is simply created by dividing a school’s budget by the number of students. That is not the cost of educating a child. It’s a meaningless number actually.

What a school budget includes is teacher salaries, teaching materials, bus driver salaries, buses (with gas and maintenance), the maintenance of buildings and grounds, maintenance people’s salaries, a cafeteria and cafete-

A school district spends between $5,000 and $8,000 to educate one child. So the charter schools want $5,000 to $8,000 to educate that same child.

There is just one problem. That figure is not the cost to educate anyone’s child... ria salaries …

Well, you get the point. It is about 10 times what any virtual school incurs. So we understand where the profit is derived in for-profit schools.

That is a pipe dream that politicians seem to favor because it makes them look like they are trying to solve a problem without using any of their tax dollars. Oh, it costs the taxpayers just the same. It’s just a political game of three-card monte. It’s all about misdi-

rection.

Now, should the governor and the General Assembly really want to put their skin in the game, let’s create a trouble-shooting program that sends additional assistance to these low-performing schools.

I don’t mean throw money at it.

Throw teachers at it. You have students who are not performing. It is not because they can’t learn. So ramp up the instruction time.

At 3:15, bring in the tutors. We have the bricks and mortar already in place.

Start with kindergarten through third grade. That is where the twig is bent.

Get them up to speed in reading, math and all the rest.

Why start with the youngest under-performers? Well, when the bathtub is overflowing, the first thing you do is turn off the faucet. The money spent there will have the largest and most long-term effect.

Give children the academic reinforcement they don’t receive at home.

It’s not that poor parents don’t care.

But if you are a single mom working the night shift, you can’t give that reinforcement.

The payoff is a better educated workforce, which means people paying taxes and not receiving assistance. It means people going to work and not to jail. It means breaking the cycles of poverty and ignorance.

Of course there is no profit in those kinds of schools. Or is there?

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 9

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE NOW THROUGH DECEMBER!

Custom Window Treatments | Custom Bed Coverings | Unique Decorative Accessories Classic Antiques | Eclectic Home Furniture (Name Brands) | Distinctive Area Rugs

50% OFF All Accessories & Upholstery Floor Samples

50% OFF All Christmas Items

Paul Martin Interiors Visit My Website at www.PaulMartinInteriors.com

Temporary location. – 1790 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 210, Cumming, The Village at Creek Stone Shopping Center | 678-947-4899

10 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

COMMUNITY

Give the gift of meals to homebound seniors

Atlanta’s “Light the Night Walk” raised a significant amount of funds for life saving research of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

‘Light the Night Walk’ raises over $1,350,000 Money goes toward life saving blood cancer research ATLANTA — Over 12,000 volunteer walkers participated in the 18th annual Atlanta “Light the Night Walk,” benefiting the Georgia Chapter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, at Centennial Olympic Park.

Over $1,350,000 was raised, with 103 companies and 267 friends and family teams joining to support lifesaving blood cancer research, free educational materials and comprehensive, personalized assistance through LLS’s

Information Resource Center.

The Atlanta “Light the Night Walk” sponsors included Northside Hospital Cancer Institute and Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty.

Bill Rawlings, Senior Vice President of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty and Managing Broker of the North Atlanta office, an event sponsor, chaired the walk.

For information on LLS, visit lls. org/ga.

HO BO LID OK AY ING PAR TIE S

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Give the gift of a nutritious meal, a friendly visit and a safety check to a local homebound senior citizen this holiday season by participating in the 2016 Home-Delivered Meals Holiday Gift Certificate Program. Meals purchased with a holiday gift certificate through Forsyth County Senior Services will be delivered through the Meals on Wheels program.

“The Meals on Wheels program does not only provide a warm and healthy meal. A meal delivery offers seniors valuable social interaction and a safety check,” Senior Services Director Ruthie Brew said. “Forsyth County Senior Services is proud of the support this program receives – not only during the holidays, but year-round.

These meal deliveries truly make a difference for a senior in need.”

Those interested in purchasing a holiday gift certificate may choose to provide meals for a day, week, month or year. The cost is $3.68 for one day, $18.40 for one week, $80.96 for one month and $956.80 for the entire year. Gifts may be tax-deductible.

REGAL CAPITAL LENDERS ALWAYS LOW RATES

Jewelry Buyers and Asset Based Lenders

LOANS AS LOW AS 3% SAME DAY

Sun – Thurs 4 pm – 6 pm

WET/DAMP BASEMENT? or CRACKED

FOUNDATION? 250 OFF

With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

150 OFF

$

Partial Perimeter Solution (under 100 feet)

With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

Make your reservations today.

Cocktails & Tapas

All meals delivered from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day will include a special certificate to wish happy holidays from the meal provider. Senior Services has set a goal of delivering 4,000 meals to local senior citizens this holiday season.

Full Basement Perimeter Solution (over 100 feet)

OPEN Christmas Eve & New Years Eve 5:00-9:00pm

$5

Checks should be made payable to Forsyth County Senior Services, Holiday Gift Certificate Program and may be mailed or delivered to the following address: Forsyth County Senior Services 7305 Lanier Drive Cumming, GA 30041

$

Winner Best Patio Dining

PATIO SPECIALS

For information about this program, call Forsyth County Senior Services at 770-781-2178 or visit forsythco.com/ seniors.

One Block from the Square and Main St, between Milton Ave & Old Milton Pkwy.

37 Old Roswell Street Downtown Alpharetta 770-609-6311 • lacasaitaliangrill.com

4048462400

www.RegalCapitalLenders.com 3384 Peachtree Rd., NE #160 Atlanta, GA 30326

678-648-2013

SCHOOLS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 11

Forsyth County schools approve 2017-18 calendar Classes will start Aug. 3

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Education recently approved the tentative 2017-18 school calendar.

Forsyth Deputy Superintendent of Schools Joey Pirkle was seeking feedback on the calendar. In addition to public response, he said the district receives feedback from local school councils each year.

“The majority of them didn’t have any feedback other than they liked it,” Pirkle said.

He did receive a few comments about when the professional development days should be. Additionally, Pirkle said the Forsyth high school principals endorse the calendar in regard to midterm exams.

“This calendar is like the ones we’ve had for the last couple of years,” he said. “It has us starting school the first Thursday in August and ending in May.” Notable dates on the calendar include: • School begins Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017 • One-week fall break Sept. 25-29, 2017 • One-week Thanksgiving break Nov. 20-24, 2017 • The first semester ends prior to holiday break Dec. 21, 2017

• Two-week holiday break Dec. 22, 2017 to Jan. 5, 2018 • One week for spring break April 2-6, 2018 • School ends before Memorial Day, May 25, 2018 • The calendar has four early release days (three for parent conferences and one for professional development) Aug. 30, 2017; Oct. 18-19, 2017; March 9, 2018 • Summer break is the same length of time as previous years

Not valid with other offers, discounts or promotions.

Limit 1 per person per visit. Valid only at location(s) listed.

Not valid with other offers, discounts or promotions.

Limit 1 per person per visit. Valid only at location(s) listed.

770.886.6657 • 2609 Peachtree Pkwy, Suwanee, GA 30024

There will be 180 student days and 190 staff days, and semesters will be broken up into 89 and 91 days.

A full calendar can be viewed at http://bit.ly/2gH22qC.

16th Year SPECIAL

15 Month CD 1.15% APY*

One withdrawal is allowed without penalty (The withdrawl must be at least 7 days after the date of the account opening.)

The rate is effective as of July 6, 2015 and subject to change without notice.

After the one withdrawal penalty may be imposed for subsequent early withdrawal before maturity. ★Minimum balance to obtain APY is $1,000 *APY = Annual percentage Yield

www.firsticbank.com DULUTH BRANCH 678.417.7474

SUGARLOAF BRANCH 678.475.0585

December 10 & 11

7:00pm each night | 3:00pm matinee on Saturday Tickets start at $15 per person and are available at NACFonline.com

Will help you on the road to success!

Create a better future with First Intercontinental Bank.

DORAVILLE BRANCH 770.451.7200

Believe is a night of music, magic, and miracles that will leave you in awe and wonder...

Experience the greatest story ever told and the possibility to BELIEVE

JOHNS CREEK BRANCH 770.418.1363

SUWANEE BRANCH 770.495.1310 (Outside Assi Market)

Produced by MOUNT PISGAH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH featuring illusionist and storyteller HARRIS III

2850 Old Alabama Rd. Johns Creek, GA 30022

COMMUNITY

12 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Annual Northside Hospital tree lighting celebrates hope FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — For the last 28 years, thousands in the community have come together for the Celebration of Lights, an annual tradition that raises funds for cancer patients, celebrates cancer survivors, honors caregivers and remembers loved ones who have passed.

On Friday, Dec. 2, three giant Christmas trees atop Northside campuses in Atlanta, Alpharetta and Cumming will light their trees following a free community-wide celebration from 6 - 8 p.m. at Northside Hospital Forsyth, 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive.

“The Northside Hospital Foundation has honored those affected by cancer and we are so pleased and proud of all the people who support Celebration of Lights and our efforts to bring hope to those affected by cancer,” Freda Hardage, director of the Northside Hospital Foundation, said. “Our Foundation and our hospital are committed to increasing access, expanding programs and broadening services to all our cancer patients and survivors.”

Each of the nearly 50,000 lights on the three Christmas trees can be purchased and designated in honor or memory of loved ones, physicians, caregivers or friends. With the purchase of

Eddie Gaitan, a thyroid cancer survivor, has been given the honor of lighting the Christmas tree at Northside Forsyth. a light, festive cards designed by a local student are sent to notify recipients of the donation in their honor. Since 1989, Celebration of Lights has raised nearly $550,000 for the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Northside treats more newly diagnosed cancer cases than anyone in Georgia and continues to be a regional and national leader in the fight against cancer.

Eddie Gaitan of Cumming is a

Northside Hospital Forsyth Auxiliary volunteer who battled thyroid cancer and is now a survivor and an American Cancer Society advocate who helps others affected by the disease. Gaitan was selected to light the 60-foot Christmas tree at Northside Forsyth this year during the finale of Celebration of Lights.

“This is the greatest honor of my life,” said Gaitan. “I’m very proud to be selected. I’ve been a volunteer since 2007 and I’m always behind the scenes and I’m very proud to be asked to light the tree.”

The holiday celebration includes several choral groups from local schools, including Forsyth Central High School and entertainment by Footprints Dance Alliance, Dance Now, Fusion Dance Company, Sawnee Ballet Theatre and Sawnee School of Ballet. In addition, there will be photos with Santa Claus, refreshments and many other activities to entertain children. For the tenth consecutive year, WSB-TV anchor Fred Blankenship will serve as emcee.

All proceeds go to the Northside Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Institute Fund to support cancer patients at Northside and to expand the programs and services available to help them beat their diagnosis.

Our Foundation and our hospital are committed to increasing access, expanding programs and broadening services to all our cancer patients and survivors.”

FREDA HARDAGE Northside Hospital Foundation director “The families who look forward to Celebration of Lights each year will be in for a special treat this year,” said Lynn Jackson, administrator at Northside Hospital Forsyth. “With the additional floors added to our campus, the tree will illuminate even brighter this holiday season and hopefully bring hope, promise and healing to those affected by cancer.”

For information about Celebration of Lights, to purchase Northside Hospital Christmas tree lights through Dec. 31 or to make a secure tax-deductible donation, visit https://give.northside. com/lights or call 770-667-4483.

ACT1 THEATER PRESENTS

November 25 – December 18 Friday and Saturday 8pm • Sunday 2pm

A silver bearded, elderly gentleman takes over the reins and saves Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade when the store’s intoxicated employee is unable to do his Santa duties. All fall under the spell of kindly Mr. Kris Kringle until he claims that he is Santa. Meredith Willson’s Book, Lyrics and Music bring to life the holiday classic about a precocious little girl who wants a dad, her disillusioned divorced mom, and a former Marine Captain turned lawyer who must prove that Kris is the one true Santa Claus. laus.

Tickets at: ACT1Theater.com or 770-663-8989 ACT1 Theater is located inside nside Alpharetta Presbyterian Church 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 MERIDITH WILSON’S “Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical” Boo Book, Music and Lyrics by Meridtith WIlson; Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture; Story by Valentine Davies, Scr Screen Play by George Seaston.

Mi Miracle On 34TH Street: The Musical is presented through sp special arrangement with Music Theater International (M (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also su supplied by MTI.www. MTISHOWS.COM. M Mike Glatzer Photography. Pictured are Jim Gray as Kris KKringle, Emily Sloboda as Susan Walker, Adam Darby as Fred Gailey and Carlye McLaughlin as Doris Walker.

At Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek, we’re doing away with all of the traditional stereotypes of senior living. We offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with numerous amenities and luxury services to fit your every need. Our community focuses on providing active seniors a comfortable, inspiring and independent lifestyle.

Call or visit us online to set up a tour today!

3180 Karen White Drive Suwanee, GA 30024 770-999-9577 | www.at-johnscreek.com

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 13

Join the Fun!

Collins was rescued from a tough life, and is now hoping for a forever home.

Martini, though in the cat room, is on the hunt for a permanent home with a loving owner.

Pets of the week: Collins and Martini FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – Collins and Martini were pulled from a kill shelter and are now looking for a friendly place to call home. Though good friends, they do not need to be adopted together. Both boys are social and loving.

Prospective adopters are encouraged to meet them by stopping by the adoption center at 4440 Keith Bridge Road, from noon-5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

Applications can be found on forsythpets.org, The shelter is also collecting decorated wreaths that will be sold with all proceeds benefitting the Humane Society. To volunteer, or to get general information, email acomstock@forsythpets.org.

Thirsty THURSDAY December 1st • 5:30pm-7:30pm Join the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce for our monthly get-together/networking event. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, and meet other professionals in the Alpharetta area.

SBA Preferred Lender • www.metrocitybank.com

SBA & Commercial Loans: 770-455-4985 Commercial Real Estate SBA 7(a) 







Loans

SBA 504

USDA (B&I) Loans





Commercial Loans

Business Line of Credit

Residential Mortgage Loans (NMLS#874399) James Lee (NMLS# 796712) 770-454-1867 | Jimmy Song (NMLS# 1218336) 770-454-1871 Sandy Na (NMLS# 983548) 770-454-1861 | Trinh Pham (NMLS# 1369150) 678-689-0093 Ext. 1713 Mortgage Lending Office: 5385 Jimmy Carter Blvd., #100, Norcross, GA 30093

L ti Ceviche Location: C i h Taqueria T i • 42 Milton Milt Ave, A Alpharetta, Al h tt GA 30009 Fees/Admission: $15 members • $25 guests Contact Kristen Franks at Kristen@alpharettachamber.com

COMMUNITY

14 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

SFHS TSA students compete FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Engineering students from South Forsyth High School attended the TSA Fall Leadership Conference at Jekyll Island, Nov. 11-13.

Students competed in the VEX Robotics Tournament, Electrothon Car Competition and Armada Boat Race.

The VEX Robotics teams continued their success thus far this season.

The South Teams created a three team alliance with Ola High School and won the event. Team 1961D finished with a score of 7-0 in the preliminary round to finish in third place prior to alliance selection.

The SFHS Electrothon team had to combat very windy conditions on

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Send us your news!

Email to news@appenmediagroup.com More Info: 770-442-3278

the race course during the race. Team 998 dropped out of the race just past the halfway point. However, team 000 completed the whole race and finished third overall.

The SFHS Armada boat team finished second overall. The theme of the event was to “Build a Boat and Hope it Floats.” Students designed and built a boat out of duct tape and card board that will carried two students across a swimming pool without sinking.

Also, students presented to their peers about the new high school TSA Competition called Coding. The students discussed the competition and informed others of the new rules for the upcoming competitions at State TSA this spring. go to the Atlanta Toys for Tots Campaign to benefit less fortunate children this holiday season.

For free admission, each visitor should bring a new, unwrapped toy for the drive.

Ga. Model Aviators teams Author Scott Vaughan up with Toys for Tots speaks on second novel FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Georgia Model Aviators and Toys for Tots have teamed up to deliver the Georgia Model Aviators Airshow 2016 on Dec. 3.

Everyone is invited to participate in this event, and spectators will enjoy a stunning display of flight featuring a wide variety of aircraft including giant scale turbine jets, carefully crafted giant scale war birds, STEM rocketry, huge aerobatic airplanes and drones.

The airshow proceeds from 1-4:30 p.m., and it will be held at 8250 Old Federal Road. All proceeds and toys will

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – Author Scott Vaughan will return to the Cumming library to speak and sign copies of his second novel, “Elm Street.” This novel serves as a sequel to Vaughan’s “Brookwood Road: Memories of a Home.”

“Elm Street” is scheduled to publish in late November, and Vaughan expects to have advance copies of the book available for purchase and signing at the event.

The book will be available for checkout from the library’s collection.

CDAR Member SWIFT Code: GMCBUS3A

Special Promotion 13 Month CD 1.15% (One Withdrawal Without Penalty**)

APY*

Minimum $1,000 to open. ** One withdrawal is allowed without penalty, but the withdrawal must be at least seven (7) days after the date of the account opening. After one withdrawal, penalty may be imposed for subsequent early withdrawal before maturity.

Diamond Personal Savings

0.88% APY*

Minimum $5,000 to open. Minimum daily balance of $5,000 in the account each day must be maintained to obtain the disclosed APY. If the daily balance in the account falls below $5,000 on any day, the APY will be changed to the current APY of regular Personal Savings account.

• The rate may change after the account is opened • Fees may reduce the earnings on the account

*APY = Annual Percentage Yield The rate is effective as of March 14, 2016 and subject to change without notice.

Please Contact Us For More Information 770-455-4989!

www.metrocitybank.com

South Forsyth High School TSA team continued to be successful through the competition on Nov. 11-13 with multiple top five finishes.

The event will be on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 3 p.m., located at the Cumming library, 585 Dahlonega St. For information about the library event, visit forsythpl.org.

Forsyth budget document earns fourth award FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada has presented Forsyth County with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the county’s 2016 budget book.

This marks the fourth consecutive year the county has received the award, which is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and represents a significant achievement.

In order to qualify for the award, a governmental entity must satisfy

nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation.

The guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communications device.

The budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories and the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories to receive the award.

“Forsyth County places an emphasis on financial transparency and on making financial information readily available to the citizens,” Chief Financial Officer David Gruen said. “We are proud that the county has earned this prestigious designation for four years in a row and commend all of those who worked on this project.”

The 2016 budget book can be accessed on the Finance Department page at forsythco.com.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 15

Religious Services

Rediscover the meaning and miracles of Christmas You are invited to connect with a loving community Dec. 24 at 4:00*, 6:00* & 11:00pm *A caring nursery is provided for children 4 years old and younger.

The First Redeemer Choir & Orchestra presents

December 25 at 10:30am for a family-friendly experience

mountpisgah.org/Christmas | 678.336.3000 2850 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek, GA 30022

TO SAVE THE WORLD The Timeless Story of His Coming

December 3rd at 6:00pm December 4th at 3:00pm

FREE ADMISSION Jeff Jackson, Senior Pastor (678) 513-9400 www.firstredeemer.org

I think Hans did a remarkable job of making the Alpharetta Chamber very fun.

KELSEY LYNCH, Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce President 16 | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016

New Alpharetta Chamber president brings small business perspective Former cupcake dynamo wants to double membership

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce President Kelsey Lynch is no stranger to small business.

She’s owned one of the smallest businesses in the country.

For four years, Lynch, 33, operated a successful pastry businesses out of her own kitchen, selling upward of 2,000 cupcakes and confections a week throughout metro Atlanta.

“I’m definitely my father’s daughter,” said Lynch, who grew up in Rockdale County with a father who made a living by installing high-end accessories on after-market vehicles.

“I always knew I wanted to have my own business,” she said. “I also learned from him that it’s not easy to have your own business. You have to understand exactly how to run it, the finances – there’s so much involvement. You have to be there seven days a week.”

From an early age, Lynch loved to cook, and by the age of 20, she felt the itch to strike out on her own.

She went to culinary school at Sullivan University in Louisville, Ky., not to learn cooking, but to learn how to run a restaurant.

“They’re very thorough,” she said. “I had a great education there.”

She earned a bachelor’s degree in pastry arts and spent the next three years as executive pastry chef in Louisville’s Makers Mark lounge.

“I got to a point where I was “They had a fit over it. They 26 years old and I thought ‘I’ve thought it was the coolest got to get out of here because thing ever,” she said. “A week I’m going to end up meeting later, I’m on their menu. We someone and creating real come up with a price point and roots here, and I’m not going to he bought 50 cupcakes to last do that.’” for the weekend. I delivered So, she left Maker’s Mark them on Friday morning.” and moved back to Atlanta.

He said he’d call her MonThat’s when she began day to set up another order. brainstorming about how to “They called me at 8 o’clock start her own business. that same night and said At that time, there were they’re out,” she recalled. “Can some small cupcake shops I bring more? I said I don’t opening up and they were have more. I make them fresh.” beginning to get some buzz She asked them how many around town. more they wanted. They said In 2008, she decided to 200. jump in, just ahead of the big “So I stayed up all night cupcake boom that was about and I cooked 200 cupcakes to sweep the country. from scratch for the next “I just went to the bank and morning,” she said. said I need a business loan, That marathon weekend and they basically just laughed was the beginning of a fourme out the door because I HATCHER HURD/HERALD year relationship with Tin didn’t even have one client,” Kelsey Lynch, the new Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce Lizzy’s in which she supplied she said. “So I did it the Paula president, takes the reins with a businesswoman’s per2,000 cupcakes a week to Tin Dean way. I started makspective.

Lizzy’s five locations. ing cupcakes out of my own But the business took off house.” beyond the cantina. Customers She drew up a menu and began sell- ticed the cupcakes,” she said. “He saw would run into her delivering the cuping and marketing her pastries everythem and said ‘Where’d you get those?’ cakes or pick up her business card and where she went.

“When he saw some cool, request cupcakes for corporate events, “I would make cupcakes for anyfunky-looking cupcakes, it was interbirthdays or weddings. body that would look at me,” she said. esting.”

“I made a cake for a playboy bunny “I would give people cupcakes at the She gave him a cupcake and he left. who won Playmate of the Year once,” grocery store, at the bank, anywhere.”

Minutes later, he returned and told she said. “Someone had my cupcakes Then, one day, while meeting a her the cupcake was delicious and he and told them about it. She had this friend for a meal at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina would like to add them to his menu. party at Tongue and Groove in Buckin Grant Park near her apartment, she “I was shocked. I couldn’t believe head and they called and asked me to decided to bring some cupcakes for her this was happening,” Lynch said. make a cake. friend’s children.

So she went home and created an “So I made a huge, big bunny and “The owner of Tin Lizzy’s actually array of cupcakes to fit the motif of a delivered our food to the table and noMexican cantina.

See LYNCH, Page 18

Bigger –

✔ 1400 Memberships ✔ 100,000+ North

Fulton Professionals

Faster–

We’re Greater Together!

✔ Direct Access to

Decision Makers

Alpharetta • Johns Creek • Milton • Mountain Park Roswell • SandySprings

✔ Business Solutions

Stronger –

& Resources

✔ Pro-Business

Advocacy

✔ Catalyst for Economic

Development

It’s time to join!

www.GNFCC.com • 770-993-8806

BUSINESSPOSTS

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 17

Interest rates skyrocket after election For the last three years, I have been comparing mortgage interest rates to a helium balloon being held low by external forces.

Well, the turbulence from the GEOFF SMITH presidential elecAssurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com tion shook that balloon free.

On Nov. 8, Election Day, average mortgage interest rates for a 30-year fixed conventional loan as reported

by Mortgage News Daily, sat quietly at 3.62 percent. The very next day, rates jumped to 3.75 percent, then to 3.87 percent, and they opened up the next week at 4 percent.

Since Donald Trump’s election win, rates have steadily increased.

Last Friday they closed at 4.19 percent.

In the history of mortgage rates, 4.19 percent is still incredibly low. If you look at Freddi Mac’s average rate since they started tracking it back in 1971, the graph would show a steady decline from rates that peaked at 18.45 percent in October of 1981.

It has only been since 2009, a year into the downturn, that rates first dropped below 5 percent.

After the downturn, the Federal Reserve put in place two practices that helped drive mortgage interest rates down in hopes of stimulating the economy. They started buying about $90 billion in bonds a month, and they lowered the short-term interest rate they give to large banks for storing their money to almost 0 percent. The bond purchases lowered mortgage interest rates because movement of those rates typically run in lock-step with the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield. And when 10year U.S. Treasury bonds are bought in high volume, the yield goes up and

Cultivating the Desire to Learn

thus, so do mortgage interest rates.

By lowering their short-term rates to banks, they encouraged banks to loan their money instead of storing it, which brings back higher returns to those banks. The higher returns help to pay for operating costs and lower mortgage interest rates.

Since January 2014, experts have been predicting a large jump in mortgage interest rates as the Federal Reserve eased out of these two stimulus measures. They no longer buy bonds, and last December they barely increased their short-term rate to about 0.25%. But rates did not really go up.

Investors from Europe and other parts of the world started buying up U.S. bonds.

You see, bonds are seen as a safe bet because their returns are relatively stable, compared to those in the more-jumpy stock market. When investors are unclear about the stability of the economy, they move their money from the stock market into the bond market.

So as the Federal Reserve backed out of its stimulus because it saw positive U.S. data, Europeans and others started buying bonds in reaction to poor European and Chinese

economic data.

I have been calling rates a helium balloon because it’s the bond-purchases that have been holding rates low. As soon as investors around the globe found something in the stock markets to bet heavily on, experts knew that rates would jump. With Mr. Trump being elected president, investors moved all-in.

According to articles in the Wall Street Journal, investors have bet heavily on expectations for reduced corporate taxation and regulation and great infrastructure spending.

They have invested in companies that they think will benefit from this.

Three of the major stock indexes including the Dow Jones, the Nasdaq Composite and the S&P 500, all closed last Friday at all-time highs.

For years I have been telling active home buyers that they are in the unenviable position of hoping for bad economic data to push investors to bonds so that interest rates would lower.

I quoted several people the week before the election at rates near and below 3.625 percent.

In the last two weeks, many of them came back with houses under contract and I had to open their eyes to the reality that rates had jumped to over 4 percent.

We are still historically very low.

But try explaining that to a homebuyer who, just because it took them an extra week to go binding on a $400,000-house, now has to pay about $100 more a month.

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

$3000 OFF ANY

ELECTRICAL! New customers only. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Limit one coupon per household.

Expires 10 days after publication.

Rated A++ by BBB • Many local referrences

3034 Old Atlanta Rd • Cumming, GA

www.montessoricumming.com 678-208-0774

• Licensed • Bonded • Insured 678-648-2011

Managing inventory can improve your bottom line Are you happy with how many times you are turning your inventory? Have you run out of certain items that are in demand? Are you overstocked with other items that haven’t sold in a while? Inventory is a big asset for small busiDICK JONES nesses who either manuFounder & President Jones Simply Sales facture or sell products, and managing your inventory efficiently and effectively can have a big impact on your bottom line. ,Inventory management is primarily about specifying the size and placement of stocked goods.

It requires constant and careful evaluation of external and internal factors and is controlled through continuous monitoring, reviews, and interactions with production, procurement and finance departments.

Prior to the computer age, inventory management was basically done manually.

Counting stock-keeping units (SKUs) on an annual, quarterly or monthly basis was a normal routine to make sure you have enough in stock, but not too much.

Technology has significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of this process. Accounting systems like QuickBooks now provide an inventory management module that allows you to “connect” your sales projections to your inventory and make it easier to manage.

Inventory is a very expensive asset.

Making sure your customers can get your products when they want them while at the same time minimizing your investment in inventory will help you maximize your profits. Ongoing planning, taking advantage of discount terms with your vendors, and utilizing inventory management technology will help you to manage inventory in your small business and improve your bottom line results.

18 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

Forsyth enacts emergency billboard moratorium

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved a 30-day emergency moratorium Nov. 17 regarding the conversion of billboards to LED signs.

The moratorium bars applications for the conversion.

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said billboards are legal in the county under its sign code. But the county doesn’t allow any new billboards and hasn’t for some time.

“However, technology changes,” Jarrard said. “We certainly have seen the changes when the push to convert signage to LED signs occurred.”

Nonconforming sign structures, or

billboards, have been allowed in the past to change to LED signs, he said.

There is a requirement the billboard owners work with the county to publish public safety notifications.

Now, the county has seen some challenges on Buford Highway, he said.

“We have an overlay on Buford Highway that no longer allows electronic message boards,” Jarrard said.

“And yet right now we have at a minimum three signs that are in some sort of a position, asking for an upgrade to an LED sign.”

Jarrard said there is an interest in reviewing as a “matter of right.”

“Right now there are no limitations,” he said.

He suggested discussing the issue further at a work session.

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHTS

Lynch: Continued from Page 16

Newtown Family Dental opens in Johns Creek Business name: Newtown Family Dental Owner: Alim J Grant DDS About: Newtown Family Dental offers general and cosmetic dentistry for entire family with an emphasis on patient comfort. The office facilitates a relaxing and

Metro Diner opens in Roswell Business name: Metro Diner Owner: Charity Chancellor About: The Metro Diner comes all the way from Jacksonville, Florida, where it was first opened in 1992. The diner offers contemporary culinary techniques, a commitment to creating dishes from scratch, an award-winning presentation, unique recipes and imaginative twists on old classics.

Opened: Oct. 25, 2016 Address: 880 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, Ga. 30076 Phone: 678-539-0879 Website: www.metrodiner.com

non-threatening environment so that patients will want to return again and again.

Opened: November, 2016 Address: 3280 Old Alabama Road, Suite 200, Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Phone: 404-437-7331 Website: www.newtownfamilydental.net

delivered it to this Playboy playmate party at Tongue and Groove. Some of the most ridiculous things would come through, and I’d say, ‘Sure, I’ll do that.’”

The pace never let up, and she said she would never hire help because she was so careful about how her products were made, delivered and marketed to the public.

“I felt the integrity of the company would be damaged if I didn’t have every single finger in every single part of it,” she said. “I didn’t want somebody to deliver the cupcakes for me because they would be a representative of the company.”

The business kept Lynch either in front of an oven or on deliveries for seven days a week with no vacation, no days off.

Then, in 2012, she learned she was about to make one of the biggest deliveries of her life.

“When I got pregnant, it was not possible to continue because of how hard I worked,” she said.

So, after talking it over with her husband, they decided to put the business on hold and possibly pick it up in a few years if the demand was still there.

But, after the birth of her son Hayes, Lynch went to work as director of sales at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Alpharetta where she joined the Chamber of Commerce in 2014.

She takes over from retiring President Hans Appen as the head of the 350-member organization.

“I think Hans did a remarkable job of making the Alpharetta Chamber very fun,” she said. “When I was a member while at Ruth’s Chris, I always enjoyed going to the events.

They were fun, and they were just no pressure.”

She said she wants to continue that legacy because it makes members feel more welcome.

“I’m going to continue to do that,” she said. “I want our events to be fun and interesting and I want it to feel like a break from work.”

She said such a system allows businesses to grow their reputations organically rather than through forced networking with people you may have nothing in common with.

As for other goals, Lynch has set a mark of adding another 350 members within the next year.

“There are 6,000 businesses in Alpharetta that can be a part of a chamber of commerce,” she said. “I know firsthand what it’s like to head up a small business. You have to get down on the ground and network and it’s just blood, sweat and tears every day. I know exactly how that feels.”

She also knows that if she’d been introduced to the benefits of chamber membership back in her cupcake days, she would have jumped at the chance.

“That’s the biggest mistake and regret I have,” she said. “Being a prior business owner and not knowing what a chamber was back then, I just didn’t know. I would’ve killed to have been a part of such an organization.

“It’s such an easy thing for $250 a year and to be put in front of so many people in such a great platform. It’s phenomenal.”

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 19

Reach 5 of the top 10 wealthiest communities in Ga. 2016 An Appen Med

Publishing March 2017

ia Group Publ

PREPARING STUDENTS fOR LIFE

Mt. Pisgah Ch School exce ristian ls

School offic sound off ials

Fulton, Forsyt h update on the leaders give ir schools

Testing 101

See how For syt North Fulton h, score on standardiz ed testing

With our annual Education Answer Book you reach over 139,650 loyal readers • • • • •

66% earn over $100,000 33% earn over $150,000 71% a have college or post graduate degree 74% use our newspapers to purchase goods and services Our readers have children in public school, private school, on their way to college and gifted children with special needs.

2017

Call or email to reserve your advertising now! 770.442.3278 • advertising@appenmediagroup.com

ication

20 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

CALENDAR THE SOUNDS OF SAWNEE

FOUNDERS DAY PARADE

Celebrate the incorporation of Johns Creek with the 10th Annual Founders Day Parade. Highlights include musical groups, local neighborhoods, schools, community organizations, civic clubs and businesses. The parade will be held Saturday, Dec. 3 starting at 10 a.m. on State Bridge Road, between Kimball Bridge and West Morton roads in Johns Creek. For more information, visit johnscreekga.gov.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

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

EVENTS: JINGLE JOG IN CUMMING

What: Get a running start to your day by participating in the Jingle Jog 5K. All preregistered runners are guaranteed to receive a technical, long sleeve T-Shirt.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 8:30 a.m.

Where: Cumming Town Center, 2085 Market Place Blvd., Cumming Cost: registration starts at $25 More info and registration: active.com

BACK TO NATURE HOLIDAY MARKET

What: Meet over 40 fine arts artisans, artisans of the farm and kitchen and instrumental artisans – all while supporting local vendors selling handmade, eco-friendly goods. Free admission.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell More info: chattnaturecenter.org

DECK THE STALLS

What: Annual fundraising event to provide feed and care for over 100 horses and other animals at this horse rescue facility. Activities will include hay rides, horse/reindeer rides, games, vendor booths and much more.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Save-the-Horses Farm, 1768 Newt Green Road, Cumming More info: savethehorses.org

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY VOLUNTEERING

What: Find out how to volunteer at and support Habitat for Humanity during this 30-minute volunteer information session.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10:30-11 a.m.

Where: Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 11060 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell More info and registration: vgibson@ habitat.org or 770-415-1650

BIZARRE BAZAAR

What: Roswell Fine Arts Alliance presents the Bizarre Bazaar. Artisans will offer a variety of items for kids and adults along with beautiful original seasonal paintings in the gallery.

When: Dec. 3-4, times vary Where: Gallery on Fouts Road, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: visitroswellga.com/ christmas-2016

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: WORKS IN CLAY HOLIDAY SALE

What: Art Center West studio’s annual holiday event offers handmade ceramic artworks for sale created by more than 40 members of Roswell’s Clay Collective.

When: Through Dec. 7, times vary.

Reception Dec. 1, 7-9 p.m.

Where: Roswell Art Center West, 1355 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellclaycollective.com

What: The Sounds of Sawnee Concert Band is taking the audience “Home for the Holidays” this year with traditional melodies. Join the celebration of Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s Eve with joyous songs of the season.

When: Thursday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: $15 More info: playhousecumming.com

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET

What: Come see the classic holiday musical about a department store Santa Claus who claims to be the real Santa and must prove his authenticity.

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta Cost: $20 for adults, $17 for children and seniors More info and tickets: act1theater.com

SYNERGY

What: Thirteen artists from the Brushwork Society of Atlanta will present their artwork in the 2016 exhibition. Enjoy a variety of paintings, including landscape, still life and figurative work. All are for sale.

When: Through Dec. 30 Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: thebrushworksociety.com

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS:

SENIOR FOLLIES CHRISTMAS SHOW

What: This year’s show features tons of family entertainment, from old TV Christmas specials to country Christmas, Christmas around the world and celebrating the troops in a USO segment.

When: Through Dec. 4, times vary Where: Cumming Playhouse, 7030 Grassmoor Grange Way, Cumming Cost: $25 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com or 770-7819178

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

What: Gather at Roswell’s grand Bulloch Hall for an intimate 45-seat performance of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic once again. Reservations required.

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where; Bulloch Hall, 80 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell Cost: $16 for children and seniors, $18 for adults More info and tickets: bullochhall. org/a-christmas-carol.html

ALPHARETTA CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

What: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting with children all evening in the gazebo during the lighting of the 45-foot live spruce tree with 10,000 white lights in the Corner Park of downtown.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 5-9 p.m.

Where: 2 South Main St., Alpharetta More info: awesomealpharetta.com

CHRISTMAS IN CRABAPPLE

What: This quaint holiday tradition has become a Milton staple including Santa photos, photographic arts, caroling, s’mores, hot cocoa and fun.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2-5 p.m.

Where: Broadwell Pavilion, 12615 Broadwell Road, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us

ROSWELL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

What: This family event includes carolers from local schools, lighting of Town Square, a reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” by the mayor, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2-5 p.m.

Where: Roswell Town Square, 610 South Atlanta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

SANTA’S SECRET GIFT SHOP CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS

What: Each year, Northside Hospital honors those affected by cancer with the lighting of giant Christmas trees.

Enjoy live entertainment from local schools and groups, children’s activities and photos with Santa.

When: Friday, Dec. 2, 6–8 p.m.

Where: Northside Hospital-Forsyth, 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming More info: northside.com/col

FREE PICTURES WITH SANTA

What: Get individual or family holiday photos with Santa taken for free. The photographer will be using a “green screen” so it is recommended that attendees not wear green clothing.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-noon Where: Alpharetta Welcome Center, 178 South Main St., Suite 200, Alpharetta More info: awesomealpharetta.com

What: Children ages 12 and younger can enjoy affordably-priced holiday shopping, making arts and crafts, and face painting. Pictures with Santa are available Sunday.

When: Dec. 3, 6—8:30 p.m.; Dec. 4, 1-4 p.m.

Where: Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

AVALON ON ICE

What: Ice skate on the Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza. Watch for theme nights and enjoy warm, tasty treats rink side.

Enjoy special events throughout the season and sign up for ice skating lessons.

When: Through Jan. 22, 2017, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: general admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

ADVENTURE TO SANTA

What: Meet Santa Claus in this immersive holiday experience. This season, the all-new attraction lets the family join Po and Friends for interactive games and an immersive, cinematic journey. Photo packages available.

When: Through Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta More info: awesomealpharetta.com

LIBRARY EVENTS: ALPHARETTA LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: The Alpharetta Library will be hosting a book sale. All proceeds will go toward supporting the library and its programs.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

IT’S A MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

What: Join for a discussion of this month’s mystery book, “The Mountain Story,” by Lori Lansens. For ages 18 and up.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info and registration: marcia. divack@fultoncountyga.gov or afpls.org

STORYTELLING WITH BABATUNDE

What: Join African “Freestyle” Storyteller, Babatunde (Jason Louder) as he presents stories based on a young boy named Kweku and characters found in traditional African tales.

When: Monday, Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org

ESL GROUP

What: Join the group to enhance your conversational English as a Second Language techniques for beginner to intermediate English speakers. Ages 18 and up. No registration needed.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 7, 4-6 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 770-360-8897

PRESERVING FAMILY RECIPES

What: Valerie Frey, author of Preserving Family Recipes: How to Save and Celebrate Your Food Traditions, will explore various aspects of your family’s heirloom recipes.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 7, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 21

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA:

Volunteers help stock the Chattahoochee Last week, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and an army of wader-clad volunteers of all ages helped stock several thousand rainbow and brown trout in the ChatSTEVE HUDSON tahoochee River Get Outside Georgia, Chattahoochee Media Group “Delayed Harvest” water at the Whitewater Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area near Mount Paran Road.

One of several “volunteer-assisted” stockings that will take place over the next few months, this event provided a family-friendly opportunity for handson involvement in Georgia’s Delayed Harvest trout fishing program. The volunteers served as part of a “bucket brigade,” transporting fish from the hatchery truck to parts of the river that the truck cannot reach directly.

Near-perfect conditions, including great weather and low water, combined to make this one of the most successful volunteer stockings in recent memory.

“The low water let us spread the fish out in the river,” one volunteer observed. “Last year, it seems like I remember the water being a lot higher, and it was hard to move around in the river. But this time the low water made it easy and a lot more fun.”

If you’ve never been part of a volunteer-assisted stocking event, you’re missing out on a great deal of fun. It goes like this: First, the volunteers gather at the Whitewater parking area. After putting on their waders they swap fish stories from previous DH seasons (yes, there may be a little exaggeration now and then) while waiting for the fish to arrive.

Then, as the hatchery truck appears around the last curve leading to the parking lot, somebody shouts “Here they come!” and it’s time to get down to business. The truck maneuvers into position near the trail leading to the river, and the volunteers line up nearby with five-gallon buckets in hand.

That’s when the fun begins. The volunteers bring their buckets to the truck, and the buckets are filled with water and loaded with trout. It’s a splashy, exciting and totally fun sight to see, and within minutes the first bucket is loaded and ready to go.

Then, it’s a matter of carrying the fishladen buckets to the water, wading out

into the Chattahoochee and turning the fish loose.

Do the fish stay where they’re released?

“I’d like to think they do,” said one stocking veteran. “Though we’d like to believe that they’ll be waiting where we put ‘em, the fact is that those trout move around. They’ll spread themselves out fairly quickly.”

That’s good news for Delayed Harvest anglers, too, for it means that you’ll soon find fish in many parts of the Delayed Harvest section of the Hooch.

Once the stocking was completed, a number of folks stayed around to do a bit of fishing. The trout were cooperative, to say the least, and I heard a lot of excitement in the voices drifting across the water. It was especially encouraging to see the number of young people participating, and there was no sweeter sound than the words “Daddy, I caught one!” drifting across the water.

And yes, some of the trout were big, but the smiles were even bigger.

What’s the best fly for DH fishing?

Favorites include pink Sucker Spawn or Y2K egg imitations, bright and flashy streamers, and buggy-looking nymphs such as Pheasant Tails. Black Wooly Bugger flies worked well too as do many other patterns.

But you don’t have to be a fly fisher to pursue Hooch DH trout. Light spinning gear is also effective. Try a Roostertail, a Mepps Spinner or a white curly-tailed grub-and-jig. Just remember that on Delayed Harvest water, each lure can have just one single hook. Lures with treble hooks are not permitted with DH areas, and of course all fish must be immediately released.

In addition to the Delayed Harvest portion of the Chattahoochee, which extends from the mouth of Sope Creek downstream to the U.S. 41 bridge, Georgia has four other great Delayed Harvest fisheries. These include designated sections of Amicalola Creek, Chattooga River, Smith Creek and Toccoa River. Delayed Harvest regulations apply to the designated waters from Nov. 1 through May 14.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has done a stellar job of creating a great Delayed Harvest trout fishery in north Georgia, and I hope you’ll be able to get in on the fun. Plan to include some Delayed Harvest trout fishing in your wintertime outdoor activities this year. You’ll be glad you did.

And watch for the next volunteer-assisted stocking. Most years, one is scheduled for the week of Christmas, a time which makes it easy for the entire family to participate.

I’ll look forward to seeing you there!

This is the perfect time of year to enjoy Georgia’s great Delayed Harvest trout season. Learn more about it in Steve Hudson’s comprehensive 84-page book entitled “GEORGIA DELAYED HARVEST TROUT GUIDE.” Packed with info on access and tactics for each of Georgia’s DH streams, it’s available from local outfitters, on Amazon, or direct from the author at chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

22 | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016

Sponsored Section

When is the right time to sell your home?

Brought to you by – Bill Rawlings, Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty The decision to sell your home is both a financial and emotional one. The choice to buy or sell a home is completely individual; therefore, when deciding on the perfect time to sell your home the following should RAWLINGS be considered. Market conditions, selling reasons and is your home ready to sell?

Reasons to Sell. Whether you have an expanding or shrinking family, a job change or a desire to move to a particular school district — your reason for selling ultimately impacts when you should put your home on the market.

Market Conditions. Take a look

at market conditions and where you see them going in the future. This is a good time to find out your loan payoff amount.

You should have an accurate idea of what your sales proceeds will be after you have paid off all home loans and closing costs. Research recent sales prices of comparable homes in your community. Find a REALTOR® that is a great match for you and what you are looking for in the home selling process, as well as someone who knows the current market conditions to estimate a listing price and how long it may take for your home to sell.

Selling for the Season. You can choose to sell at any time of year, with the new year quickly approaching this is great time.

Once the holiday season has died down, you should consider putting your home on the market. If your home attracts families and is in a sought-after school district, you are just as likely to

If your home attracts families and is in a sought-after school district, you are just as likely to get offers at the beginning of the new year as you are in the summer.

Buyers want to settle into their new home before school starts. get offers at the beginning of the new year as you are in the summer. Buyers want to settle into their new home

before school starts.

Is your home ready to sell? An important element in determining when to list your home is its condition. You will need time to make repairs and improvements, deep-clean your home and clear away many of your possessions. If you have a large, disorganized home with overflowing closets and a garage with no space for a car, you may need weeks or months before you are ready to put your home on the market. Today’s buyers have high expectations of your home’s condition, so do not expect to be able to work on your home after it is listed. Your home should be priced correctly and in prime condition on day one in order to sell quickly and for the best price possible.

Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results.

Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Crye-Leike continues to grow in the Atlanta market Now open in Gainesville

It’s been eleven years since Harold Crye, CEO of Crye-Leike Real Estate, expanded the company’s footprint into the Atlanta metro area. The fourth largest privately owned real estate company in the nation recently opened its eleventh office in the Atlanta Metro area at 956A Dawsonville Highway, Suite 301 in Gainesville.

Crye-Leike is pleased to welcome Christy Crumbley as the new Managing Broker. Crye-Leike’s Gainesville office is currently open for business and ready to assist clients with all of their real estate buying and selling needs in Hall, Lumpkin, Dawson and surrounding counties. The office will host a grand opening ceremony this fall.

“The Atlanta real estate market is strong and greatly improving like many of the markets Crye-Leike serves,” said Cofounder and CEO Harold Crye. “We see a lot of potential for the local market and are very happy to be expanding in and around the Atlanta area with additional offices opening soon in Lawrenceville, Dahlonega and Marietta.”

“Being a full-service real estate brokerage firm, our goal is to make it convenient for our customers and sales associates to utilize all of our services before, during and after a home purchase by offering reliable, efficient and convenient services for today’s busy lifestyles,” said Steve Brown, president of Crye-Leike Residential Sales.

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services had a great year in 2015 achieving $5.7 bil-

lion in sales volume. Over a nine-state region, 3000 highly skilled Crye-Leike agents sold 31,400 properties. CryeLeike’s sales outperformed the national average in the real estate market.

Crye-Leike Atlanta has sales offices in Alpharetta/Roswell, Norcross, Cartersville, Cumming, McDonough, Riverdale, Smyrna/Vinings, Johns Creek and Woodstock in addition to a Residential Property Management, Commercial and Relocation division.

As a full service real estate company, Crye-Leike offers real estate and related services, including: relocation services; commercial business and investment real estate services; property leasing and management services; insurance services; title & closing services; mortgage services; home warranty services; home services; auction services; business brokerage services; REO services for bank-owned & foreclosed properties and real estate schools.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 23

24 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

SPORTS

Blessed Trinity loses heartbreaker to Mary Pearsons Titans fall 28-27 to Bulldogs in quarterfinals

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH, Ga. – Blessed Trinity saw its season come to an end in harrowing fashion as the Titans fell to Mary Pearsons in a game decided in the final seconds.

Mary Pearsons led 28-27 with just 37 seconds left before lining up for a fourth and 1 on BT’s 49-yard line, seeking a first down to run out the clock and end the game. The Bulldogs thought they had done just that when a pre-snap flag was thrown as a BT defender crossed the neutral-zone.

However, the Bulldogs were charged with a false start, turning the fourthand-short into a fourth and 6. After the penalty, the Bulldogs elected to punt.

The Bulldogs’ punt, off the side of the kicker’s foot, sailed out of bounds at BT’s 45-yard line, a punt of just nine yards. BT was within striking distance with 31 seconds remaining.

BT quarterback Jake Smith connected with Ryan Davis for 12 yards and then scrambled for 20 yards to put

The loss was BT’s first to a Georgiabased opponent all season. Its previous two loses were to St. Peter’s Prep (N.J.) and McCallie (Tenn.).

BT in field goal range at the 23-yard line with 14 seconds left.

Smith completed a pass to Wes Leckie at the 11-yard line with seven seconds remaining to set up Brooks Hosea for a 28-yard field goal attempt.

Hosea, with talent and consistency not often seen in high school kickers, was 4-4 on field goals on the night,

hitting kicks of 44, 47, 26 and 38 yards. The latter two both came in the fourth quarter when BT was unable to maintain drives late.

The Bulldogs called two timeouts in an effort to freeze Hosea, a Citadelcommit, in an effort to shake him into missing a field goal for just the second time this season.

Whether the attempts to freeze him worked or whether the kick was untrue, Hosea’s kick sailed wide-right.

The loss was BT’s first to a Georgia-based opponent all season. Its previous two loses were to St. Peter’s Prep (N.J.) and McCallie (Tenn.). Blessed Trinity was making its fourth straight appearance in a quarterfinal game and its first since joining Class 4A. In a back-and-forth affair, BT took the lead in the first quarter on a 41yard touchdown pass from Jake Smith to Ryan Davis. Smith was 13-23 pass-

ing for 207 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Two Mary Pearsons touchdowns and two Hosea field goals gave the Bulldogs’ a 14-13 lead at the half.

BT opened the third quarter with a 50-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Will Carlton, but the offense would not find the end zone for the rest of the game.

Mary Pearsons scored on a 1-yard rushing touchdown and on a 69-yard pass to take a 28-24 lead. Hosea’s made a field goal of 38-yards with eight minutes remaining, but it would be the last score of the game.

It was the end of BT careers for BT seniors Hosea, Colin Davis, Matt Maloof, Griffin Gilder and Jacob Bolton. BT should return Smith, a sophomore, as well as Steele Chambers, Jake Rudolf and J.D. Bertrand next year.

QUESTION: How do I submit my news to the paper?

An evening of traditional and contemporary Christmas music celebrating the birth of the Savior.

Free Concert presented by the Alpharetta Methodist Choirs, Orchestra and Handbells

The answer is easy, NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Boost your brand, reach the right audience and get noticed!

Upload unlimited press releases using Appen Media Group’s online portal, NewsLink.

Located at Alpharetta First United Methodist Church 69 N. Main St., Alpharetta, GA 30009

770.475.5576

AFUMC.ORG/CHRISTMAS

Only NewsLink submissions are reviewed by our newsroom for possible use. NorthFulton.com is one of the highest hit local/regional websites with over 44,100 unique local visitors and 80,000 + unique page views per month and rapidly increasing. Call 770-442-3278 for questions or assistance.

COMMUNITY

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 25

Fire Dept. announces toy drive FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The Fire Department is asking for community involvement in making the holiday season a great one for local children in need.

“Last year we were delighted to have collected enough toys, gift cards and monetary donations to provide for 1,800 children. This year, with the help of our generous community, we hope to surpass that,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “The Fire Department personnel who assist with the toy collection each year are undoubtedly grateful to witness the many individuals, children and families as they drop off gifts at our stations.”

New toys for children and newborns may be dropped off now through Dec. 15 at any fire station in the county, the Fire Department Headquarters at 3520 Settingdown Road, or any of the library branches.

During this time period, toys for Aerial’s House may also be dropped off in the lobby of the Forsyth County Administration Building at 110 East Main St. For information on the toy collection, contact The Place of Forsyth County at 770-887-1098.

SFHS presents ‘Madagascar William Repella awarded 60th – A Musical Adventure’ year continuous membership Post Commander Frank Singleton, right, bestowed the certificate on William Repella who served in the U.S. Army through three wars: WWII, Korea and Vietnam.

Awarded by the American Legion FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Cumming American Legion Post 307 has awarded a 60th year Continuous Membership Certificate as a Legionnaire to William Repella.

Post Commander Frank Singleton bestowed the Certificate on William

DEATH NOTICES Phyllis Brown of Roswell, GA, passed away on November 22, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory Mary Connolly, 69, of Roswell, passed away on November 15, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Betya Datsenko, 81, of Roswell, passed away on November 19, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery Joanne Ewing of Alpharetta, GA, passed away on November 20, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory

Repella who served in the U.S. Army through three wars: WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He is also a Purple Heart recipient and served in combat in Korea and Vietnam.

“The incredible dedication his life has shown to Country and Community has set standards few could follow,” the Legion said about him. “We are blessed to know Sgt. William Repella.”

Repella and his wife now reside in Dawson Country.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – South Forsyth High School presents “Madagascar – A Musical Adventure” this December.

Under the direction of Joni Smithwick, SFHS’s Southside Players will rollout this family musical just in time for the holidays.

Everyone is encouraged to head over to South Forsyth High School’s Performing Arts Center for a trip from the Big Apple to the jungles of Madagascar.

Performance times are at 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 and 2 and 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 3. Tickets are available for

Jerome P. Goldstein, 80, of Roswell, passed away on November 15, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Richard Moses, 88, of Roswell, passed away on November 14, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Louis W. Hill, 80, of Johns Creek, passed away on November 20, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Lawrence Reid of Roswell, GA, passed away on November 21, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory

Ruth Jameson of Milton, GA, passed away on November 21, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory

Rose Mary Stewart, 95, of Dawsonville, passed away on November 17, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

If you go

What: South Forsyth High School presents “Madagascar – A Musical Adventure” When: 7 p.m. Dec. 1, 2; 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3 Where: South Forsyth High School’s Performing Arts Center Tickets: sfhs.booktix.com

purchase at sfhs.booktix.com. All performances are located at SFHS’s Performing Arts Center, 585 Peachtree Parkway.

Eugene Alvin Wich, 97, passed away Saturday, November 19, 2016, at home and surrounded by family in Cumming, GA after two months under the care of hospice. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home Eugene Alvin Wich, 97, passed away Saturday, November 19, 2016, at home and surrounded by family in Cumming, GA after two months under the care of hospice. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home Barbara Ann (Paff) Weyenberg, age 79, passed away on Tuesday, November 22, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Mohammad Saeed Yazdani, 86, of Roswell, passed away on November 15, 2016. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

26 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com forsythherald.com

ONLINE INCLUDED

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

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

Sales Garage Sale ALPHARETTA G O L F WAREHOUSE SALE: 1060 Union Center Drive Suite D, 30004.

Saturday 12/3, 10am-3pm. Men’s and Women’s Blem Golf Shoes from $4.99, New Apparel from $9.99 and some accessories.

Bargains Antiques CLAWFOOT TABLES $300. Oak chest $90.

Curved glass china cabinet $300. White China cabinet $125.

770-475-5297

Building Supplies DRIVEWAY GATES; two, 10’ wide total, wrought iron. $800 both/obo.

678-492-2300 VELUX SKYLIGHTS, used. (Eight, 21”x44”, two miscellaneous sizes). $475/all.

770-992-6848 leave message

Cemetery GREENLAWN Five privately-owned side-by-side; exclusive, very serene Lakeside surrounded by mature pine trees, overlooking beautiful lake.

Greenlawn will show location and handle deed transfers. $1500/ lot includes private granite memorial bench directly in front of lots.

Sidney 504-454-3168 or senglander10@ gmail.com

Cemetery

Furniture

GREENLAWNROSWELL Garden of Peace, Lot 36-B, Space 2, Included: 1 cremation vault, 1 memorial plaque 16”x20” engraved, 2 openings, 2nd vault needed for 2nd opening.

Greenlawn will show location and handle deed transfer. $4,900 (Retail $8,800).

770-605-7747

BAR STOOLS, 3 wooden swivel top with back, oak finish, $45 all.

770-888-2790

ARLINGTON Garden Mausoleum, Block 41B/Row 2, #B,C,D,E near outdoor chapel.

1/$1,000 2/$1800 includes transfers.

Cost-$3,000 ea.

Pictures/ information 770-663-9996 ARLINGTON MEMORIAL PARK 2 plots, Section D, Lot 37-C. $8000 value for $7500. 770-354-5915 GREENLAWNROSWELL Garden of Prayers, premium plots overlooking lake and fountain. $12,000/ both, $6500 each.

Serious inquiries only.

678-617-7499

Furniture Everything must go!

Queen bedroom, Living Room Set, Dining Room, Kitchen table, chairs, hutch, outdoor furniture.

All negotiable. Call for details or photos.

404 884 4945 BARSTOOLS 30” cherry 404-889-3233

(3) $300.

CHILDRENS’ TABLE, cherry Delta $90.

404-889-3233 DINING ROOM TABLE, glass top, cherry inlay, 6 covered roll-back chairs $800.

404-889-3233

CHERRY HUNT TABLE with mirror, $700.

404-889-3233 CHERRY DINING ROOM SET: Table with leaves, 6 chairs, corner cabinet and buffet. $400.

770-889-8209 SWIVEL ROCKER RECLINER, LazyBoy: Beige. New! $850. Retail $1099.

678-957-8335 BEDROOM SET: Single headboard, night-stand, chest, desk with hutch and chair $200.

770-889-8209 DINING ROOM SET: Broyhill. Table with leaf, 6 chairs (2 arm, 4 regular). Very good condition. $300 obo. 404-502-1940/ 770-662-3961 DINING ROOM table, chairs: Thomasville Queen Anne; excellent condition! $650.

404-310-5541 SOFA: Light green.

Excellent condition!

Pictures on request. $450. 770-889-8209

Household ELECTRIC STOVE: White 1950’s General Electric 4 burner; very nice condition! $150/obo.

770-843-7034 SEWING MACHINE, Graybar with case $200/firm.

770-241-3273 F R I G I D A I R E FREEZER $125.

404-889-3233

Medical Equipment

Musical Instruments

P O W E R WHEELCHAIR: Invacare Pronto M-91. New batteries.

Like new! $1250.

404-396-7807

PIANO, BG, Yamaha.

Elegant, walnut, with bench. $1850 obo.

404-455-8845

H O V E R O U N D MOBILE CHAIR MPV5, Joystick control, 300 pound capacity, leather seats and cup-holder, used 6 months $1500.

770-569-1103 RECLINING LIFT CHAIR, almost new, comfortable, solid neutral color, $200/obo, paid $1000+. Height adjustable Breezy Wheelchair $200, paid $1000. Low riser full-size bed, $100, paid $1000+. Height adjustable transport chair $50, paid $300.

Rolling walker with brakes $15, paid $100.

Cell 708-748-6628

Miscellaneous JOHN DEERE GATOR for kids $200.

404-889-3233

PIANO, Baby Grand: Elegant case, matching bench; warm, rich tone. Sacrifice $1650 obo. 678-445-3654 PIANO: Henry F. Miller Upright, matching bench $500/firm.

770-552-4034

Recreation GUN CABINET: Wooden, with locking glass front and bottom storage. Holds 5 rifles. $100. 770-888-2790 SKIS, BOOTS, POLES, womens’ and mens’ 7/1/2 and 9-1/2. $400. 404-889-3233 GOLF CLUBS: Ladies’ complete set, Lynx irons, graphite woods, ball retriever, wood covers, new bag $275.

770-740-9757

DUNE RACER (kids) $150. 404-889-3233

Wanted to Buy

MENS’ DANCE SHOES: Black, size 10. $40 firm.

770-241-3273

Vintage Barbie and Friends, Ginny, Madame Alexander, and other dolls, clothing and accessories. (Local).

Cell 214-883-8215

POLARIS 4-Wheeler 404-889-3233

Kids’ $150.

STROLLERS 404-889-3233

$40.

LITTLE TYKES COUPE and Fire Engine, both for kids $70. 404-889-3233 JOHN DEERE KIDS’ GROUNDLOADER $150. 404-889-3233 YAMAHA 4-WHEELER 404-889-3233

kids’ $150.

#1 News Website in North Atlanta www.appenmediagroup.com

Help Wanted Full-time Client Scheduler

for premier homecare agency in Alpharetta Must have excellent communication skills and enjoy working with elderly. CNA or LPN certification desired.

Prior homecare or scheduling experience a plus.

Call 678-230-5971

*Some Restrictions

Full-time

Full-time

Part-time

COOK. INFANT TEACHER. TODDLER TEACHER. PROGRAM SUPERVISOR. Positions open immediately!

Benefitsavailable.

E x c e l l e n t p a y.

F r i e n d l y environment. Call 678-648-3175 or info@krk52.com

P R E S C H O O L DIRECTOR for NAEYC accredited Alpharetta Private School. Send your resume to resumes@ mcginniswoods.org.

HOUSECLEANER/ Female team member ASAP. M-F 8:20-3 or 4, 30-35 hrs. wk. Must be legal, dependable, non-smoker. $12 up to start. Experience a plus.

Sheri 770-309-7335

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT/CPA Promo Products Co. seeks experienced detail person to oversee Acct. Dept.

Must be proficient in all phases of accounting including monthly financials.

Degree req’d. Crystal reports, SAP Business 1, CPA certificate a plus. N.E. Atl. Resume to awise@ gpcorp.com CDL DRIVER Wanted. Knowledge of Greater Atlanta beneficial.

Local driving only. Medical insurance available.

Call Conex Recycling at 770-889-1550

Public Works Department is hiring a Custodian FT- Position at $13.22/hr. Must have HS Diploma/GED, Driver License, and work rotating weekly/ weekend shift. Details applications/resumes on www.suwanee. com. Send to: City of Suwanee HR, 330 Town Center Ave, Suwanee, GA 30024 or Fax; 678546-2120. E/O/E; Drug Free Workplace

BOLD TYPE

will really make your ad stand out.

Ask your sales rep about making all or part of your ad bold.

770-442-3278

COMMUNITY ASSISTANTS for Johns Creek Montessori School.

If you love working with children and are passionate about Montessori education, send your resume to info@jcmsog.org.

JCMSOG.org Vamana Systems, Inc. seeks candidates with Master’s + 1 yr exp./Bachelor’s + 5 yrs. exp/ equiv. as Java Developer (VSJD16): HTML, CCS, Javascript, JQuery, AngularJS, Java, J2EE; Web D e v e l o p e r (VSWD17): HTML5, CSS3, Javascript, Ajax, JQuery, AngularJS, Java, JSP. Mail resume with job ID to HR: 5490 McGinnis Village Place Suite #233, Alpharetta, GA 30005.

Travel to unanticipated worksites throughout U.S. Foreign equivalency accepted CDL DRIVERS/B.A.H. Express Inc Southeast-based carrier hiring in Atlanta/ North GA. Class A CDL Drivers for Regional/ OTR lanes. Great pay package, starting pay .42 to .45 per mile depending on experience. 18 months minimum, military exp. accepted.

Weekly Home Time. Assigned equipment, excellent benefits, paid vacation and holidays. Safety Atlanta 1-800-RUN4BAH (800-786-4224) or 404-608-1300 ext 103, Apply online www. bahexpress.com

TEACHER & ASSISTANT TEACHERS CLEANER. 1PM-6:30PM P R O G R A M SUPERVISOR, 5 hours per day.

Positions open immediately.

P r e m i u m pay, friendly environment. Call 678-648-3175 or info@krk52.com PET SITTER/DOG WALKER FT/PT. Must have flexible schedule. www.happytailscare. com

Entertainment & Event Services Weddings Tianna’s Place Creating impeccable memories, one event at a time. Full-service, special event-planning.

Focusing on corporate and celebratory events. w w w. t i a n n a s p l a c e . com. 678-879-5253/ 404-903-2441

Fill your position.

CALL

770-442-3278

to place your ad

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 1, 2016 | 27

AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING

Get FAA Technician certification.

Approved for military benefits.

Financial Aid if qualified.

Job placement assistance.

Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204

Advantage Painting 770-500-2156 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs No Up Front Money Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured

® HANDYMAN REMODELING

678-455-2434

www.HandyHero.net

28 | December 1, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

$15,000 4

IN DESIGNER UPGRADES

PLUS $5,000

IN CLOSING COSTS*

RANCH HOMES MOVE-IN READY

COMMUNITY LAKE • POOL • CABANA • OUTDOOR FIREPLACE

EXCELLENT WEST FORSYTH LOCATION NEW HOMES FROM THE HIGH $300’S DIRECTIONS: GA 400 N. to exit 13. Left on Hwy 141/Bethelview Road. Travel 4.8 miles and turn left on Aaron Sosebee Rd. Travel 1.5 miles and Waterford is on the right.

PMCOMMUNITIES.COM

678.343.2480

*See agent for details. Offer on contracts written by 12/31/16. Lot 5 and 20 excluded from bonuses.

2016