Forsyth Herald - December 7, 2017

D e c e m b e r 7 , 2 0 1 7 | Fo r s y t h H e r a l d . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 0 , N o . 4 9

Forsyth joins opioid lawsuit ►►PAGE 4

Candy canes for a cause ►►PAGE 10

Holiday hiring in full swing ►►PAGE 15

SPECIAL

Sawnee Elementary data clerk is backbone of school

Robyn Gravitt, center, and her daughters Amber Gravitt Lee and Madison Gravitt celebrate her recent honor as Forsyth County Schools Teacher of the Month for November. Story page 31.

Titans to play for state title ►►PAGE 32

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2 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Woman dies in crash on Dahlonega Highway 770-442-3278 | ForsythHerald.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Cumming woman died just after noon on Nov. 27 after a three-vehicle crash on Dahlonega Highway at Punch Hammond Road in north Forsyth County.

Emily Osborn, 42, of Cumming, was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Deputy First Class Phil Alexander, traffic specialist investigator

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POLICE BLOTTER

for the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office.

The accident occurred when Pedro Rolon, 61, of Cumming, was driving a 2000 Honda Odyssey northbound on Dahlonega Highway preparing to turn left on Punch Hammond Road. His car was stuck in the left rear by a 2008 Freightliner moving truck which was also northbound on Dahlonega Highway. The driver of the Freightliner was James Lumpkin, 41, from Cumming, and in the front passenger seat was

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.

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.

Woman shoots dog after it attacks pet

DUI arrests

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman shot her neighbor’s pet recently after her dog was attacked.

The woman said the dog came into her yard off Medlock Road Nov. 23 and she heard her dog yelping. She opened the front door and saw the neighbor’s dog attacking hers so she tried yelling at the animal and hitting it with a stick.

The dog refused to let go of her pet’s leg, so her grandson grabbed a 2-by-4 and began hitting the dog, but it still held firm.

The woman then came back with her pistol and shot twice under the house at the dog. It immediately let go and went back to its property. She said she was unsure if she hit the dog.

The owner of the injured dog took it to the vet because it was bleeding badly. He went over to his neighbor’s house and began yelling at her and said she killed his dog.

The woman’s dog had visible injuries to its neck and legs.

The man was told to stay off the woman’s property.

Creek Trail, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 16 on Atlanta Highway for DUI, driving while license suspended or revoked and speed less than minimum. ►► Christopher Alan Zeh, 49, of Aderhold Way, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 17 on Rives Drive for DUI and speeding. ►► Daniel Wilson McFarlin, 46, of Americas Cup Cove, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 19 on Ga. 400 for DUI, reckless driving and driving on the wrong side of undivided street. ►► Tricia Ann Hamlin, 40, of Mainsail Drive, Gainesville, was arrested Nov. 19 on Ga. 400 for DUI and improper passing of emergency vehicle. ►► Victor Javier Macias, 26, of East Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, was arrested Nov. 19 on Ga. 400 for DUI and following too closely. ►► Sarah Frances Warren, 46, of Habersham Hills Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 15 on Trammel Road for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Joseph Amadeus Gipe, 25, of Continental Drive, Cumming, was

►► Eric David Salomone, 21, of Hawk

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In the November 30 issue of our Herald newspapers we incorrectly stated that Christopher K Finley was arrested for possession of marijuana.

This was an inadvertent error by this newspaper and the information was incorrect.

Mr. Finley was not involved in an arrest of any kind. We sincerely regret this error and apologize to Mr. Finley.

Troy Lester, 22, from Cumming.

After impacting with the Odyssey, the Freightliner went into the southbound lane of Dahlonega Highway striking a southbound 2004 Toyota Camry on the driver’s side driven by Osborn. Lester was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Specialist Unit. arrested Nov. 17 on McGinnis Ferry Road for DUI, following too closely and too fast for conditions. ►► Luis Alberto Marquez-Melo, 29, of Valley Place, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 23 on Valley Place for DUI, hit and run, too fast for conditions, failure to maintain lane, driving without a license, obstruction and pedestrian under the influence.

Drug arrests ►► Todd Allan Woll, 52, of Marina

Crest Drive, Gainesville, was arrested Nov. 16 on Parks Road for possession of methamphetamine, driving vehicle with suspended registration and driving while license suspended or revoked. ►► Tyler Payton Cypret, 28, of Cogburn Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 17 on Whitmire Road for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a schedule IV controlled substance, failure to maintain lane and wanted person located. ►► Alan Bruce Cortes, 38, of Hawkinsville Road, Macon, was arrested Nov. 18 on Ga. 400 for possession of marijuana and speeding. ►► Andrew John Redmond, 21, of Channing Way, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 23 on McFarland Parkway for possession of marijuana and failure to exercise due care. ►► Christie Lynn Thurmond, 36, of Old Howell Bridge Road, Ballground, was arrested Nov. 28 on Keith Bridge Road for possession of a schedule II controlled substance and defective or no headlights. ►► Hoyt Wesley Garland, 58, of Highway 515 South, Blue Ridge, was arrested Nov. 23 on Matt Highway for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug-related objects, no insurance and operating an unregistered vehicle. ►► Julie Hammond Fowler, 49, on Hubert Martin Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 23 on Matt Highway for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug-related objects and open container.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 3

Corneal Transplant: Penetrating Keratoplasty (Part 2 of 2)

By Priyal Gadani, O.D., F.A.A.O. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outermost tissue of the eye, which is sometimes referred to as the window to the eye.

The cornea focuses light through the lens onto the retina. A diseased or injured cornea can cause significant decreased vision, pain, or discomfort. Oftentimes, these issues may be remedied by medication eye drops, contact lenses, or other more conservative procedures, but if the cornea still Priyal Gadani, does not respond, a corneal transplant may O.D., F.A.A.O. be required. A corneal transplant is a surgical procedure in which damaged or diseased cornea is replaced by donated corneal tissue (the graft). It may restore vision, reduce pain, and improve the appearance of the damaged or diseased tissue.

Post Op Care: Initially, a protective shield is worn to protect the eye following the procedure, and in the following week and months, patients are asked to not rub the eye and avoid activities which may cause trauma to the eye such as playing sports. Corneal transplant is a relatively safe procedure, but it does carry a small risk of serious complications including infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, cataract, glaucoma, issues with the stitches used to secure the donor tissue, rejection of the donor cornea, and swelling of the cornea.

Risks: Risks of PK are similar to those of other intraocular procedures including infection, inflammation, glaucoma, bleeding, retinal detachment, but additionally include graft rejection, and detachment or displacement of the graft. Corneal rejection occurs in about 20% of cases. Graft failure can occur at any time after the cornea has been transplanted, even years or decades later.

Signs and symptoms of cornea rejection: The body’s immune system may mistakenly attack the donor cornea in some cases. This is called rejection, and it requires further medical treatment or another corneal transplant. Signs and symptoms of cornea rejection include loss of vision, pain, redness, or sensitivity to light. Rejection occurs in 20 percent of cornea transplants. If the first transplant is rejected, certain patients may need a second transplant. A repeat transplant carries a higher rate of rejection than the first.

Vision expectations after cornea transplant: The corneal transplant may be technically performed perfectly, and the transplant may be working as well as it can be, but other eye problems may limit the quality of a person’s vision post-operatively.

The new cornea may have a significant amount of astigmatism and glasses or special contacts may be required to improve vision. Other eye diseases such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma may also limit the patient’s quality of vision and prevent the patient from seeing 20/20.

If you have a damaged cornea, corneal transplant may be a good option for improving and restoring clearer vision.

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4 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

NEWS

County joins lawsuit against opioid industry

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County has officially agreed to retain a law firm that is in the process of prosecuting multiple manufacturers and distributers linked to the opioid crisis.

At its Nov. 28 meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved Napoli Shkolnik PLLC as its attorneys as they pursue a lawsuit on behalf of local governments seeking damages to cover the costs associated with the drug epidemic.

The firm will receive 25 percent of all amounts recovered, according to the retainer agreement. Additionally, if the action is considered class action, the law firm will request compensation which will supersede and replace the contingency fee.

If the suit is successful, the award would help cover expenses associated with substance abuse programs, healthcare, environmental, medical examiner, lost productivity, foster care, Narcan and increased law enforcement.

Other local jurisdictions considering joining or that have already joined include Fulton County, Henry County, DeKalb County, Newton County and

Clayton County.

In 2015, more than 300 million prescriptions were written for opioids, more than enough to give every American adult their own bottle of pills, according to Shayna Sacks, a partner with Napoli Shkolnik PLLC. That includes Vicodin, OxyContin and Opana.

From 1999 to 2013, opioids have claimed more than 175,000 lives, with more than 16,000 deaths attributed to opioid overdoses alone in 2013.

In Georgia, the overdose death rates have steadily increased from 1999 to 2015, nearly a nine-fold increase overall, Sacks said.

In the United States, prescription opioid abuse costs are about $55 billion annually.

The law firm is filing suit on behalf of municipalities, states/attorney generals, individuals and unions against the drug manufacturers, distributors, prescribers and pharmacies.

Some of the major drug distributers in the country have seen billions of dollars in sales, she said. Purdue Pharma manufactures OxyContin and Dilaudid, among others, and has generated from $2 to $3 billion annually in sales of OxyContin alone. Sacks said they are the “grandparent” of the epidemic.

SPECIAL

The causes of action are negligence, false advertising, nuisance, consumer fraud and unfair and deceptive practices, Sacks said.

The history of the opioid crisis dates back to the 1990s when influential journal articles and key opinion leaders encouraged physicians to prescribe the medications, downplaying addiction

risks, Sacks said.

“The pharmaceutical industry began aggressively marketing their drugs,” she said. “Pill mills began popping up around the country as communities were flooded with prescription opioids.

Over the next decade, people quickly grew addicted to the drugs. For many, the addiction evolved into heroin use.”

Board compensation study moves forward

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Commission is officially moving forward with a study to see how much they should get paid.

After months of debate ultimately ending in a tie vote, the board held off on a final decision on the study conducted by The Mercer Group until its

newest member, Dennis Brown, was elected and took his seat Nov. 28 as District 2 commissioner.

“There is a lot of controversy,” Brown said. “The only way is to go ahead and do the study.”

This item will go on the board’s new business agenda at the Dec. 7 meeting.

The board voted for the almost $20,000 study to look into board compensation and workload analysis.

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Currently, the commission chairman receives $38,611 base salary and $40,868 total with various supplements and a 2.5 percent increase for serving full term.

Board members receive $34,901 base salary and either $36,670 or $38,879 in total with the supplements and the same percentage increase.

State law authorizes a percent increase for each term completed of up to 7.5 percent in total.

In addition to their salary, the board members are eligible for the county’s 401K plan, healthcare and receiving a county cell phone and computer. The board uses their personal vehicles with no automobile use allowance.

In August, the board voted down a 25 percent pay raise that had been approved in July.

Then in September, commissioners revisited the topic and voted to proceed with the study. The study will look into whether it is necessary to adjust the salaries in comparison to other Georgia jurisdictions. Comparable counties may include Cherokee, Clayton, Douglas, Hall, Henry and Pauling Counties.

The responsibilities and workload portion will study job requirements,

There is a lot of controversy...The only way is to go ahead and do the study.”

DENNIS BROWN Mercer Group member

including the need to be available, additional time requirements as the population grows and to ensure that compensation is not a disincentive for qualified people to run for office.

The project team said they would like to conduct interviews with each commissioner to shed light on board workload and citizen expectations.

The study should take about three months. County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the study has to be done before election qualifying in 2018. If approved, the raise wouldn’t go into effect until January 1, 2019.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 5

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Johns Creek Herald Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record.

Northside Woman 18,000 copies distributed monthly to subdivisions and business in North Fulton and South Forsyth with home delivery to 40+ of the most exclusive gated and estate communities in North Atlanta.

Forsyth Herald Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30040, 30041.

Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Milton Herald Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006.

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NEWS

6 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Board discuses outside communication during meetings

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners is aiming to be more transparent with the community through open communication.

At their Nov. 28 meeting, Commissioner Laura Semanson said board members have discussed the topic with each other after noticing sidebar conversations and texting during meetings.

“We’ve allowed ourselves to become too distracted during meetings,” Semanson said. “We owe our complete attention to the business at hand.”

During the meetings, she said she’s made it a practice to relinquish private communication devices and she hopes other board members will follow suit.

She gives her phone to someone on staff and tells her family to text 911 if they need her help.

“There was a recent meeting where there was someone before us for a public hearing and mid-motion was waiting to hear from us,” she said. “There was a lot of side chatter and other things going on. It presented us unprofessionally and was also a dereliction of duty that when someone comes to be heard, we owe them our complete attention.”

In addition to surrendering devices like cell phones, both personal and county issued ones, Semanson suggested using “hot microphones” which would pick up any sounds.

“The public has a right to know what we are discussing and question what conversations are going on,” she said. “If we are having communications of any time during a meeting, the public is entitled to

said. “Everyone was chatting amongst themselves. It’s a good idea to leave the mic on at all times except if you have to cough.”

However, he said he has a lot of employees that depend on him and when he goes to work sessions during the work day, he needs to be able to get in contact with them using his phone.

Semanson said work sessions could be treated differently than regular meetings since the public doesn’t come before the board to speak on issues.

“I certainly understand if you have a business concern or something happening with your kids,” Semanson said. “That’s more the exception than the rule and we should have some way to accommodate that. When we’re here, we need to be present.”

Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said it’s up to the chairman to call the meeting back to order if there is a lot of extra talking occurring. Chairman Todd Levent agreed and said he can do that as long as the other members respect it.

Former Planning Commission Chairman Robert Hoyt said he has witnessed occasions where their board members would be texting someone about an item being discussed.

“Public meetings are for the public,” County Attorney Ken Jarrard said. “I’ve seen other jurisdictions struggle with this. It’s challenging to do something unless everyone signs on that they’ll do it that way.

It’ll last for a few meetings then people will become looser with it.”

In January, the board will revisit its own rules and decide if they should put something in about transparent conversations during meetings.

The public has a right to know what we are discussing and question what conversations are going on...If we are having communications of any time during a meeting, the public is entitled to know what we’re discussing whether electronically or during sidebars between us.”

LAURA SEMANSON Commissioner

know what we’re discussing whether electronically or during sidebars between us.”

Commissioner Pete Amos echoed her sentiments and said most of the distractions are due to the board talking to each other while business is going on.

“At one point I couldn’t hear what (a staff member) was saying and I had to ask him to repeat it,” Amos

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County gets strict on short-term home rentals

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is cracking down on short-term rentals after multiple cases of parties and community disruptions occurred.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners voted Nov. 28 to create an ordinance regulating the short-term home rentals from websites such as Airbnb or Vacation Rental by Owner, or VRBO. The ordinance defines “short-term vacation rental” as accommodations for transient guests who pay for the home for fewer than seven consecutive days.

This includes all housing types except bed and breakfast accommodations.

Homeowners will have to obtain a short-term vacation rental permit with the county before renting or leasing any portion of their home, according to the ordinance.

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said this will help establish a data base for the county .

Additionally, a rental agent, which could be the owner, will be designated to the temporary rental. They must be able to respond at all times to any complaints regarding the condition, operation or conduct of the renting occupants.

The condition requires the agent to go to the property within two hours of being notified of any issues from the county. The agent will also receive any warnings or citations.

The owners also must submit an application for a short-term vacation rental permit to the county annually, pay $100 initially and then $50 every year following when the permits expire on December 31 each year.

Failure to obtain the permit would

result in a citation and a $100 fine for each month the property was in operation without the required documents.

The first violation is a warning, second violation within a year of the first results in a suspended permit for up to 30 days and a third violation within a year cancels the permit.

The commission will conduct hearings on the denial, revocation or suspension of a permit.

This ordinance has been a year in the making after the county began looking into the issue last December when neighbors on Lake Lanier complained of wild, unsupervised parties after nearby homes were rented out temporarily.

In August, Jarrard said this type of issue is not unique to Forsyth County or Georgia.

“In every place that are tourist destinations, folks are struggling with the tension between private property rights and the ability of people to utilize the property for value, as compared to the rights of people who live nearby to also derive value,” Jarrard said. “That value is the peace and quiet and enjoyment of their homes.”

Jarrard said regulations he saw in other communities have the local government painting a distinction between residents who occasionally lease out property, versus absent owners who lease out the properties regularly.

Neighbor Randy Kauk said he’s concerned the homes are no longer being rented out to families, but are being used like a hotel while being advertised and operated like an event venue.

“It’s hard to get your head around still allowing normal rentals,” Kauk said. “You don’t want to infringe upon their right to rent their home. But you have to stop this event venue type thing.”

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Candy Cane Wishes raises donations for Family Haven

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Family Haven Executive Director Shandra Dawkins, left, and Black Diamond Grill employee Francine Serradas hang candy canes on the tree to represent those who have donated.

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — For most, the sight of a candy cane reminds them of happy holiday memories. But this year, it’s bringing more joy to the community thanks to the Candy Cane Wishes fundraiser hosted by Black Diamond Grill, 1485 Peachtree Parkway.

Restaurant patrons buy a candy cane for $2, and all proceeds go to Family Haven, a nonprofit that provides services to those impacted by domestic violence in Forsyth and North Fulton counties.

Jackie Allen, who does marketing for Black Diamond, said they chose Family Haven because of the people they serve.

“It is important to us particularly due to the children involved,” Allen said. “Domestic violence is something nobody wants to tolerate, but a lot of people do at certain points in their lives. If we can put a little bit of a dent in it and help Family Haven, we’ll do it.”

In addition to the candy canes, the restaurant is accepting donations of socks and underwear as well as toys.

However they’ll take any donations. The goal is to raise $800 with about $350 in the till so far. The drive continues through Dec. 28.

Family Haven Executive Director Shandra Dawkins said they receive more calls over the holidays.

“The abusers are more stressed out, kids are home for the holidays, there isn’t enough money to go around, and expectations are at an all-time high,” Dawkins said. “Just creating more public awareness about Family Haven

and the services is great for us. Candy Cane Wishes is more than just financial contributions, but getting the word out about something really important.”

Dawkins said she hopes the public outreach may help victims by showing there is someone to assist them, including local businesses and the community.

“So often, those victims are silenced or don’t know what the resources are,” Dawkins said. “By coming here and (seeing) Family Haven’s name is in front of them and will support them, it’ll give them more courage and support knowing there are other people who know it’s not right to abuse.”

The request for socks and underwear may be odd to some, Dawkins said, but it’s a necessity year round.

“When it’s the holiday season, individuals are more apt to give toys because it makes them feel really good also,” Dawkins said. “But domestic violence happens 365 days a year. We run out of underwear and socks because a lot of times the women only have the clothes on their backs. At the end of the year, our containers are low and those things are important.”

Even gift cards are needed constantly, she said, to help the clients fulfill special dietary needs or items needed for moving into a new home.

“If they’re in the shelter and haven’t had time to spend with their children due to the chaos at home, we can give them gift cards to McDonald’s and movie theater tickets,” Dawkins said.

“They can do something together that’s positive versus the chaos. We can utilize that and make it Christmas 365 days of the year.”

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 11

Northside offers smoke cessation class to help public

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Since the age of 13, Yevette Lash had been a smoker.

But a couple of weeks ago, she finally kicked the habit thanks to the smoking cessation class at the Northside Hospital Forsyth campus.

Lash, now 50, said she heard about the class last year while her mother was at the hospital from surgery.

She didn’t like the smell or cost of the habit, so she decided to start the class after she moved to Georgia from Texas.

“I figured since I was changing so much anyway, I might as well try to stop smoking,” Lash said. “We used to hear about the warnings from the Surgeon General. But this was something where they actually teach you what makes you go and smoke a cigarette.”

The seven-week program, offered for a small fee, educates the participants on their triggers and how to cope with stress while developing a deeper understanding of their own self.

During the fourth week, dubbed “Quit Week,” the class gathers at Northside to toss their last packs and lighters into the trash, learn from a respiratory therapist about benefits of quitting smoking and take a carbon monoxide test.

“The biggest thing that gave me hope was that after so many years of not smoking, your lung tissue goes back to being normal,” Lash said. “That was the key for me. In a short amount of time, I could turn

PHOTOS BY ALDO NAHED/SPECIAL

Kyeda L. King, oncology clinical social worker at the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, far left, leads a smoking cessation class at the Northside Hospital Forsyth campus.

things around. I had the support from the other teammates in the class.”

Kyeda L. King, an oncology clinical social worker at the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, tailors the program for each participant based on their personal needs.

“Usually when people have an addiction, it’s because of something else going on in their lives or something they’ve experienced,” King said. “My role is to uncover and address that and give alternatives to

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the situation.”

The class doesn’t sugar coat quitting, but it is still professional and to the point, Lash said.

“It’s different for every person,” Lash said. “What I take away from it, someone else may take something else away. If you fall off the wagon, it’s OK. You just get back up. There is no shaming, just support.”

And for Lash, she said it’s been successful for her.

This is the second time she’s gone through the class because the first time she missed Quit Week while in Florida.

She said she smoked because she was anxious.

She was able to get off her anxiety medication, but the smoking was the only thing left.

“I went back because I needed that extra support and go through the quitting part,” Lash said. “You’re saying goodbye. For me, that was my key because I’ve tried to get rid of everything unhealthy and this was one of my last steps.”

Over the three years King has led the program, she said it’s grown from sporadic classes to now six sessions a year. Part of the success is due to follow up calls to ensure the participants have the tools they need to continue being smoke free.

“Usually when you’re doing something by yourself, it can be a little bit more challenging,” King said. “But when you have the support of a group and people who are experiencing the same thing at the same time, it builds a bond and it helps everyone share what they’re going through which helps people be more successful.”

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12 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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BULGARIA — Two local veteran wrestlers recently captured silver for the U.S. at the United World Wrestling Veteran World Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

John Hanrahan of Milton and Daniel Studenic of Cumming each captured silver medals in the respective brackets.

Hanrahan, a gold medal winner in 2016, beat opponents from Estonia, Russia and Iran on his way to the finals for the second straight year. The gold medal match was against a seven-time world champion from the Republic of South Africa in a rematch of last year’s finals.

Hanrahan battled but fell short, 4-2, in a close match.

Studenic beat opponents from Mongolia and Moldova before facing Russia’s Idris Iasulov in the finals. Though he injured his knee in the gold medal match, Studenic fell just two points short of the gold medal.

Both wrestlers were collegiate standouts, with Hanrahan competing with Penn State and Studenic at West Liberty. They share their 100 combined years of wrestling experience with students at Mill Springs Academy, Morris fitness and other training facilities in metro Atlanta.

SPECIAL

Local veteran wrestlers John Hanrahan (left) and Daniel Studenic both captured silver medals at the 2017 UWW Veteran World Wrestling Championships in Bulgaria.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 13

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga.— Four outstanding Forsyth County High School runners have been named to the 2017 All Metro Cross Country Team.

Kaylee Dupont of South Forsyth High School will represent Forsyth County on the girls’ team. Dupont placed second at this year’s Regional Championship race.

Tyler Fox and Lee Keil both of Lambert High School have been named to the boys’ team. Fox was the winner of this year’s Warpath Invitational while Keil was ninth place in the Class 7A State Championship race.

Calan Gizelbach of Forsyth Central High School is also receiving honors.

Gizelbach won the Gene Mullin Invitational in 2017.

The 42 athletes who represent 10 counties and 28 high schools, were selected based on criteria including performance at the state meet and other major meets over the course of the season. The top-ranked male and female athlete will be named Most Outstanding Cross Country Athlete.

PHOTOS BY DAN MCCAULEY OF THE ATLANTA TRACK CLUB

Four runners represent Forsyth County in the Atlanta Track Club

Calan Gizelbach

Tyler Fox

Kaylee DuPont

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14 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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There’s a lot of competition for people who are coming into this market.

That’s an issue right there.

JOHN RAY, president of the Alpharetta Business Association 15 | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017

Holidays usher in more job opportunities Businesses scramble to fill open positions

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Saturday’s downtown Christmas tree lighting in Alpharetta launched what businesses have come to rely on as their cornucopia in consumer spending through the end of the year.

Local retailers especially are bulking up on staff to handle increased shoppers.

But with a robust economy, Alpharetta merchants face a complication in seasonal hiring, according to John Ray, president of the Alpharetta Business Association.

“From everything I see, the demand for labor is strong,” Ray said. “There are some retailers doing better than others. But from a small business point of view, business is strong and they’re doing everything they can to get the labor to take care of the business.”

But this kind of labor is getting harder to come by, Ray said. And one big reason is the cost of housing.

Much of the seasonal labor comes from outside the city because many potential employees cannot afford to live in Alpharetta.

“So, you’ve got to take that into account in terms of paying people,” he said. “There’s a lot of competition for people who are coming into this market. That’s an issue right there.”

Ray said if those interested in seasonal work get offers closer to home and can forgo the costs for the com-

PAT FOX/ HERALD

Work continues at Avalon on the new Autograph Collection hotel by Marriott which is scheduled to open in January. The facility will feature 330 rooms and an adjoining conference center with 59,944 square feet of space. mute to Alpharetta, they’re going to look strongly at that.

“That’s creating some issues for employers in this market,” he said. “You’ve got restaurants opening, you’ve got stores in Avalon opening. You get more competition for the same individual who’s commuting into Alpharetta.”

The holiday season aside, Avalon garnered a lot of attention this week-

end when Marriott held a two-day job fair for some 160 positions at its new Autograph Collection hotel scheduled to open next month.

The fair drew more than 170 people in its first three hours Friday, according to hotel General Manager Thomas Lind.

While most of those applicants registered online for appointments, about 50 or so were walk-ins, he said.

This follows another session held the week before when the hotel took applications for some 60 positions at the South City Kitchen.

The most recent job fair drew interest from throughout the area, Lind said. This included key applicants from Atlanta’s prestigious Four Seasons, St. Regis and Mandarin Oriental hotels.

“I’m so encouraged so far in the people we’ve been able to attract,” Lind said. “I’ve had about 15 people so far this morning and they said ‘I’m at the Four Seasons now or I’m at the St. Regis.’

“It’s that caliber, people who have tenured experience. They are here for personal reasons. They love Alpharetta.

They love Avalon. They want to get away from the congestion and traffic of Buckhead.”

Lind attributes the interest to the unique quality of the new hotel and the excitement that comes with being a part of Avalon.

When it opens next month the six-story, 330-room hotel will feature guestrooms, spacious suites, a fitness center, several dining options and a pool.

In conjunction with the Alpharetta Development Authority, it will also operate an adjoining 60,000-squarefoot conference center to accommodate trade shows, conventions or special events.

The hotel has planned a ribbon cutting Jan. 16 which will include a special luncheon and tour of the facility.

On Jan. 20, it will host a grand opening which includes a charity gala and a silent auction.

Proceeds from the event will benefit North Fulton Community Charities.

Don’t Miss Out! Join Today.

Visit our website at alpharettachamber.com or call Kelsey at 404.445.8223.

16 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

Economy is at full stride While there is a lot of drama going on in the country between people groping other people, Trump saying weird things about Pocahontas and the University of Tennessee hostGEOFF SMITH ing a reality show Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com about how to not hire a head coach, it turns out the economy is killing it.

It’s easy to see success around the metro area. There are cranes almost everywhere you look.

The Congressional Budget Office just released statistics that show the U.S. economy is operating at full stride. So the success you are seeing here is for real.

The study in the report measures the economy’s potential to produce goods and services based on the supply of people working and how productive they are. The conclusion is that we are doing the best right now with what we have.

Economists measure the productivity of our workforce by determining how much product the average worker can produce. They can then multiply that times the number of people in the workforce and determine our economy’s potential to produce goods and services. As it turns out, our production – measured in Gross Domestic

Product, was actually slightly more than our potential.

We are essentially right where we want to be. This is a good thing if you are happy with where things are. But if you want faster growth in our economy – where do we go from here?

If we start overproducing from what economists believe is our maximum potential, then experts say the economy will overheat. Which means that banks and businesses would start being careless in their lending and spending. Right now, we basically have full employment and the supply is meeting an honest demand.

An economist in a recent Wall Street Journal article called it “the sweet spot.”

The same article also reported that many economists believe an economy operating beyond its potential will put pressure on product prices and worker wages to increase.

This is welcome news for the Federal Reserve, whose governors have been concerned with the stubbornly low inflation numbers we’ve been seeing.

This could also be welcome news for our housing market.

I just listened to a real estate industry expert who predicted that a 4 percent increase in wages would set loose a home-buying spree across this country. He pointed to statistics that show that we only buy houses after our salaries have increased from where they were when

This could also be welcome news for our housing market.

I just listened to a real estate industry expert who predicted that a 4 percent increase in wages would set loose a home-buying spree across this country.

we first bought the houses we are in.

It’s an interesting theory. In the metro area, there is less inventory right now of houses priced under $400,000 than in any other time since folks started recording inventory levels. It’s almost the opposite case for homes priced over $500,000. There is an overabundance of inventory in that market. If wages increased, and people started moving up, you could see a slew of new inventory flood the market in the starved sub-$400,000 range, as people who own homes in that range list their houses so they could buy in the above $400,000 range.

As we head near the end of this year and the beginning of the next, you can expect to see articles predicting greatness in 2018. It’s happened almost every year since I started paying close attention to the economy. I’m not sure if this is born out of hopefulness or if it’s a strategy to try to create some inertia going into the new year.

The truth is, if we want to see a significant jump in growth, if we are operating at full stride, we’ll need a new product or market to appear. The internet created a huge market in the late 1990s that took years to fill. Is there something bigger on the horizon that will instantly create an expanse of capacity?

If I knew, I’d be a hard man to find. As it is, I’ll enjoy living in Roswell and waking up every day doing the best with what I’ve got.

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

The four ‘touch points’ for sales success Are you trying to convince potential customers to do business with you the first time you speak with them?

Do you have a process in place to build trust, credibility and a relationship?

After selling a new DICK JONES customer your prodFounder & President Jones Simply Sales uct or service, do you maintain contact with them so you can get them buy more?

Sales success requires multiple “touch points” not only to make the sale, but also to get repeat business.

The first touch point is the initial contact you make with a potential customer.

This is not the time to sell.

It is the time to build a relationship, get to know the customer’s business and better understand if there is an opportunity to help them solve a business challenge.

It’s also a perfect time to share your value proposition to get them interested in meeting with you.

The second touch point is meeting with the client. If you’ve got them interested in meeting with you, now is the time to show them how you can help them.

Letting them know how your product or service with help them will get them interested in buying from you.

The third touch point is closing business. Whether it’s a formal proposal or a simple conversation, converting this potential customer to becoming a customer is what your hard work in building a relationship and meeting with the client is all about.

And the forth touch point is maintaining contact with the customer.

Ensuring the product or service is working well for them, and uncovering additional opportunities, will lead to more business opportunities and sales success.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 17

Kemp says he would sign anti-gay legislation

Candidate supports ‘religious freedom’ bill Gov. Deal has vetoed twice

I don’t know what other provisions that may have been in [the bills Deal vetoed]. But I would support a bill that is in line with federal law...It would be simply codifying what is already in the Constitution.”

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp told the Roswell Rotary Club Nov. 30 that if he is elected governor, he would sign a “religious freedom and restoration bill” similar to the ones Gov. Nathan Deal has twice vetoed if came before him.

Proponents of the bill say it grants people of conscience who disapprove of gay marriage, contraception and other issues they believe violate their religious beliefs the right to tailor their business practices accordingly.

Kemp said he would support a bill that guaranteed Georgians religious freedom under the U.S. Constitution.

“I don’t know what other provisions that may have been in [the bills Deal vetoed]. But I would support a bill that is in line with federal law,” Kemp said.

“It would be simply codifying what is already in the Constitution.”

Kemp is not the only GOP candidate likely to endorse a religious freedom and restoration act. In August the Georgia GOP officially endorsed such a bill but decided not to require its candidates to do so.

But the devil of such a bill is in the details and could have far-reaching economic consequences.

Opponents of the bill say it is discriminatory to gay and transgender citizens. Certainly that is the way corporate America has interpreted such legislation.

Corporations and organizations have expressed their opposition to such controversial legislation, and in states where it has passed, many have withdrawn from participatory agreements or withdrawn interest in economic development. That is likely a major factor in Deal’s two vetoes of what was nominally the same bill.

In vetoing the first religious bill, Deal said he thought it was discriminatory.

“Our people work side by side without regard to the color of our skin, or the religion we adhere to. We are working to make life better for our families and our communities. That is the character of Georgia. I intend to do my part to keep it that way,” Deal said in 2015.

Georgia’s film, television and recording production industries have

BRIAN KEMP Georgia Secretary of State

HATCHER HURD/HERALD

Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp addresses the Roswell Rotary Club luncheon Nov. 30. He has already announced he is a candidate for governor in 2018. expressed the most sensitivity to the legislation.

Georgia is now the No. 1 filming location in the world, according to FilmL.A. And the media industry has had a giant impact on the state’s economy already.

Film and television productions generated $9.5 billion in economic impact in fiscal 2017 with $2.7 billion in direct spending.

“Georgia’s growth in the film industry — from $67.7 million in direct spending in FY 2007 to $2.7 billion in FY 2017 — is unprecedented, not only in production spend, but also in the amount of investment that has been made in infrastructure,” Lee Thomas, deputy commissioner for the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Office, said in a statement.

“The unwavering commitment to this industry by Gov. Deal and the Georgia Legislature has ensured Georgia’s place as a top destination for film

and television,” Thomas said.

While in the early years of the Atlanta film industries, companies came to shoot in the state’s many diverse locations.

More recently, sound stage complexes such Pinewood Atlanta Studios, EUE/Screen Gems Studios, Tyler Perry Studios and Blackhall Studios have made it possible for all of the ancillary post-production facets of filmmaking to take place in Georgia also.

That has brought more than 25,000 year-round jobs. That could change if the filmmakers decide – as they have in the past – to go elsewhere because of the perceived discrimination.

Georgia got a big uptick from Louisiana – which had been No. 2 behind Hollywood and ahead of Georgia in film production – after that state passed its religious freedom bill. Film producers voted with their feet and began coming to Georgia.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development declined to spec-

ulate on any legislation that may be pending before the Georgia General Assembly.

Tourism is a statewide business generating a staggering $61.1 billion annually with fully half of that stemming from Atlanta’s hospitality and convention business.

A former Georgia Economic Development staffer John Boothby offered one generalization. He said the competition for new development is always keen. Georgia, like other states, has much to offer to companies wishing to relocate or expand.

“At some point their top choices become hard to separate. So the decisionmaking becomes a process of elimination,” Boothby said.

“They look for any negatives that will help decision makers in the winnowing process. And your competitors will make sure they know just what those negatives are.”

Religious conservatives may make a third try at the legislation after Deal leaves office. It already has passed the House and Senate twice. So the religious liberty legislation could well be one of the key issues come next November.

If it does become law and previous precedents fall into place, Georgia could see premier events, such as Super Bowl LIII, the 2018 College Football Championship and the 2020 College Basketball Final Four, leave for less controversial venues as well – costing Atlanta and the state millions of dollars in revenue and an incalculable amount of prestige nationally and internationally.

18 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

2017 CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Over the past 5 years the Chamber has assisted in the creation of more than

5,000 NEW JOBS & nearly half a billion dollars in local capital investment, saving Forsyth County homeowners an estimated

$16 MILLION dollars in property taxes.

Since January, the Chamber has announced 20 projects that are forecasted to generate more than

940 NEW JOBS and nearly

$134 MILLION in capital investment.

Sports Warehouse will locate its East Coast center in Forsyth County. This project brings

$20 MILLION, 300 NEW JOBS

and is the largest project to come to Forsyth County in 10+ years.

SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES The BAR (Business Advancement Resource) hosted the inaugural

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Forsyth County Commissioners voted unanimously to expand the public-private partnership with the Chamber. This agreement supports a new plan that will

SAVE RESIDENTS $33 MILLION IN TAXES and have an overall ROI of an astounding 900%!

The Chamber and the Forsyth Conference Center co-hosted 4 Food Trucks ‘N Forsyth events in 2017.

The Chamber and the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department co-hosted the Play at the Park festival.

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Since its formal inception, the Chamber’s tourism department has brought

FOCO EXPO,

$25 MILLION VISITOR DOLLARS

The BAR awarded 7 organizations with the

Without tourism visitors to the community, local homeowners would have to pay an additional $169 in taxes each year.

to draw business and community together.

BUSINESS OF EXCELLENCE AWARD.

into Forsyth County.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 19

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cummingforsythchamber.org

The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce recently partnered with the Forsyth County Schools’ College and Career Development Department and local manufacturers to engage high school students

Students toured each company in an effort to draw attention to the many rewarding, high-paying careers available in the manufacturing industry and to highlight the importance of manufacturing to the nation’s economy.

do, because it’s a great company and a great place to work. Best of all, the lottery games and technology we create generate billions of dollars in revenue for good causes around the world, like health and welfare, education, transportation and the environment.”

The face of modern-day manufacturing is an important element in local workforce development and the Chamber is proud to partner with local companies investing in the region’s future, like Scientific Games. Kennedy said Scientific Games employees have career opportunities in a wide variety of fields, ranging from manufacturing to engineering, finance, marketing, game and digital design.

The company offers entry level manufacturing jobs, as well as college internships in most fields and a co-op program for college engineering majors.

in National Manufacturing Day on October 6th. Students from Forsyth Central High School, Lambert High School, North Forsyth High School, South Forsyth High School and West Forsyth High School spent the morning of Manufacturing Day touring the manufacturing facilities of Americna BOA, Panduit, Scientific Games and LG-MRI.

“Scientific Games welcomes tours of our campus and manufacturing facility so we can share more about the many different career paths available here,” said Jim Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, Lottery for Scientific Games. “As one of the largest employers in Forsyth County, we’d also like to let our local community know who Scientific Games is and what we

An intiative of the Chamber of Commerce is to bridge the gap between local educational institutions and the business community. Events like the tours hosted on National Manufacturing Day are great avenues to facilitate these connections. For more information on Chamber manufacturing programs please contact Michelle Daniels at mdaniels@cummingforsythchamber.org.

�������������������������������������������

Manufacturing Day Makes Strides for Workforce Development

Raising the BAR for Small Businesses The mission of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce is to advance positive business growth and community partnerships to promote a superior quality of life in Forsyth County. One way the Chamber accomplishes this is by creating resources for Forsyth County’s thriving small business community through the Business Advancement Resource (BAR). The BAR’s specific goal in 2018 is to create a five percent increase in sales for those businesses participating in BAR activities.

In 2018, the BAR plans to host eight workshops, five webinars and five peer mentoring groups.

The BAR also produces the FoCo Expo where small businesses can market themselves to community members and the Excellence in Business Awards that recognizes the most outstanding business and non-profit organization in Forsyth County. Additionally, the BAR plans to revise its Business Development Toolkit- a resource guide for those interested in starting a business. To learn how you or someone you know can access BAR resources, contact Tony Peters at tpeters@cummingforsythchamber. org.

20 Herald| |NorthFulton.com ForsythHerald.com 26 || December December 7, 7, 2017 2017 || Forsyth Milton Herald

CALENDAR EVENTS:

“THE TRIGGER EFFECT” VARIETY SANTA FUN RUN This Variety fundraising event embraces the holiday spirit to help raise money for children with special needs and disadvantages. Run it, walk it, roll it, skip it, hop it – all to help a child walk, run and play. Santa will be there and take photos with the participants. Registration is $25.

The event takes place Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. More information and registration is at active.com.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

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

“THE NUTCRACKER” PERFORMANCES: GWINNETT BALLET THEATRE

When: Through Dec. 17, times vary Where: Infinite Energy Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth Cost: Tickets start at $8 More info and tickets: gwinnettballet.org

SAWNEE BALLET THEATRE

When: Dec. 16-17, times vary Where: North Forsyth High School, 3635 Coal Mountain Drive, Cumming Cost: Tickets start at $10 More info and tickets: sawneeballettheatre.org

ALPHARETTA DANCE THEATRE

When: Dec. 16-17, times vary Where: Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta Cost: Tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: alpharettadancetheatre.com/thenutcracker

ATLANTA BALLET

When: Dec.8- 28, times vary Where: The Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta Cost: Tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: foxtheatre.org

HOLIDAY EVENTS: PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

What: This free event will feature Santa, pancakes cooked and served by City of Milton firemen and fire station tours. Unwrapped toys for North Fulton Community Charities’ Santa Shop Toy Drive will be accepted.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 8-10 a.m.

Where: Fire Station 43, 750 Hickory Flat Road, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us

ADOPT-A-SENIOR FOR CHRISTMAS

What: Help local seniors know that they are loved and not alone during the holidays. Volunteers and donations are needed. Donations are tax deductible.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 9:30 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Nursing & Rehab Center, 1109 Green St., Roswell More info: adoptasenior.net

GERMAN CLUB CHRISTMAS MARKET

What: The South Forsyth High School German Club will sell German pastries and holiday treats. Enjoy free crafts.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: South Forsyth High School, 585 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming More info: northfulton.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

What: Breakfast with Santa gives special guests time with the Big Elf himself, goodies, music and holiday crafts.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek Cost: $20 for residents, $30 for nonresidents More info and registration: johnscreekga. gov

HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

What: The Southern Trilogy Historic House Museums will open their doors after hours for twinkling lights, greenery of the season and sounds of the 19th century.

When: Sunday, Dec. 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, Archibald Smith Plantation More info: roswellgov.com

SANTA’S VILLAGE IN ROSWELL

What: Visit Santa’s Village and explore eight displays with lights, trains and animated characters. Donations go to Toys for Tots.

When: Through Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m.

Where: 405 Waverly Hall Drive, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

AVALON ON ICE

What: Ice skate at Avalon on their Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza.

When: Nov. 19-Jan. 21, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: General admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

SANTA AT AVALON

What: Join jolly Old Saint Nick in his cozy cottage at Avalon and take photos.

When: Nov. 19-Dec. 24, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta More info: experienceavalon.com

What: Join for a book launch where the authors will do short re-enactments from scenes in the book, based on a true story in East Cobb. Wine and cheese will be served.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 2-4 p.m.

Where: Bookmiser, 4651 Sandy Plaines Road, Roswell More info and registration: bookmiser.net

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT IN ALPHARETTA

What: Learn about the latest public and private construction projects and developments. Director of Community Development Kathi Cook will be onsite to answer questions.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”

What: See this holiday favorite up close and personal with the actors in an intimate 45 seat setting.

When: Dec.7-9, times vary Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell Cost: $18 for adults, $16 for students/ seniors More info and tickets: roswellgov.com

“MY STORY OF SAM”

What: Local writer Leigh Takata will show her debut screenplay about her rape experience. There will be a meet and greet.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 2-4 p.m.

Where: Roam Alpharetta, 5815 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta Cost: $15 More info: northfulton.com

CHRISTMAS WITH THE JOHNS CREEK CHORALE

What: Listen to a fun and festive evening of modern and traditional Christmas carols. Special guest Kazanetti String Orchestra.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

Where: Wesleyan School Chapel, 5405 Spaulding Drive, Peachtree Corners More info: thejohnscreekchorale.com

BRIDESMAID OF BARRINGTON HALL

What: See the recreation of Margaret Mitchell interviewing Eva Baker about her memories of the Mittie Bulloch and Theodore Roosevelt Sr. wedding.

When: Sunday, Dec. 10, 1 and 3 p.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell Cost: $15 More info and tickets: roswellgov.com

“SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS 2017”

What: Sanders Family Christmas is the sequel to Connie Ray and Alan Bailey’s bluegrass gospel musical Smoke on the Mountain.

When: Nov. 24-Dec. 10, times vary Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: Tickets start at $27.50 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

“DICKEN’S CHRISTMAS CAROL”

What: Enjoy a new take on the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

When: Through Dec. 17, times vary Where: ACT1 Theater, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta Cost: $20 for adults, $17 for seniors More info: act1theater.com

JOHNS CREEK ARTS CENTER HOLIDAY SALE

What: Choose from handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings and prints by instructors as well as youth and adult students.

When: Nov. 18-Dec. 23, times vary Where: Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekarts.org

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: BUTTERPUP & FRIENDS

What: Miles Davis is an artist, illustrator, and creator raised in the United States Air Force.

When: Through Dec. 29, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

FINE ART FOR A CAUSE

What: Give twice by supporting local artists while donating to relief efforts in Puerto Rico. A portion of each sale will go to United Way. When: Through Dec. 31, times vary Where: Abbotts Bar and Grill, 10900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: northfulton.com

JOYS OF THE SEASON

What: Local artists will display their works in seasonal themes. Some art will be on sale.

When: Through Jan. 16, times vary Where: Roswell Arts Center East, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

EVENTS FOR KIDS: GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONSTRUCTION CLASS

What: Join Chef Darwin in building and decorating gingerbread houses for the holiday season. Classes are separated by age.

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

Where: Arts Center, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell Cost: $10 More info and registration: roswellgov.com

CANDY CANE HUNT

What: Hunt the yule log, make a seasonal craft, participate in the Candy Cane hunt, Christmas sing-along, enjoy a light snack and listen to stories.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-noon Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell Cost: $15 More info and tickets: bullochhall.org

VISIT WITH MR. & MRS. CLAUS

What: A photographer will be on-site taking Polaroid pictures and giving them away for free. You are also welcome to take your own pictures.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 1-3 p.m.

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

SMALL, SMALL WORLD PRESCHOOL ART

What: Travel the globe with the Johns Creek Art Center to learn about music, movement, art and literature. Ages 2-4.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 10:30 a.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekarts.org

COOKING AND CRAFTS

What: Experience history through simple recipes and heritage crafts. This class is about “The Gift of Food.”

When: Thursday, Dec. 14, 4:30 p.m.

Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek More info: autreymill.org

LIBRARY EVENTS: KWEKU’S ADVENTURES

What: African “Freestyle” Storyteller Babatunde will present stories based on a young boy named Kweku and characters found in traditional African tales.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, noon-1 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

ORIGAMI CLASS

What: All ages and skill levels are welcome. Paper will be provided.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 4-6 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-6735

“SPIRAL BOUND” FILM SCREENING

What: Local author and screenwriter, Mike Buchanan is back to introduce his film, “Spiral Bound” about the importance of the arts in education.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 3-4:30 p.m.

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

LEGO PLAY

What: Build, create and have fun. The library provides the LEGOs. Ages 4-12.

When: Monday, Dec. 11, 3:30-5 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4050

PET ADOPTIONS: FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

What: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES

What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd. NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com NorthFulton.com| |Forsyth Milton Herald Herald || December December 7, 7, 2017 2017 || 21 27

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA:

Adventure on the Hooch When you go fishing on the Chattahoochee, you never know what you’ll find One of my favorite canoeing spots is the Chattahoochee, perhaps because it seems to offer a little bit of everything.

There’s scenery, solitude and even lakes (such as STEVE HUDSON Bull Sluice Lake, Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net formed by Morgan Falls Dam just off Roswell Road) to explore.

There’s good fishing in Bull Sluice.

It’s home to species as divergent as trout, bass, bluegill, carp and the incredibly beautiful yellow perch, among others. Yes, fishing can be good.

Oh, yeah – there’s one other interesting thing about the waters of Bull Sluice. Sometimes they attract the most, well, interesting people. And that brings me at last to a story that I’ve been wanting to tell. This being the 100th edition of this column, this seems like a good time to share it.

It was a sunny morning a year or so ago, and I was getting ready to fish Bull Sluice Lake with my friend Bill.

We’d been talking about doing some perch fishing there, and on that day, the scheduling stars had aligned. It promised to be a great day.

We were rigging up our rods when a dusty red pick-up drove into the parking lot. There was an old aluminum canoe propped up in its bed, and peering out the passenger-side window was the smiling face of an exceptionally happy looking dog.

The truck creaked loudly as the driver parked it. A couple got out and began unloading the canoe. Meanwhile, the dog hopped from the truck and began to dance around excitedly as if it knew what was coming.

“Ahh, kindred spirits!” said Bill as we watched the couple drag their canoe toward the water. But his smile changed to puzzlement as they began loading stuff, a lot of stuff, into the boat. There were at least a dozen fishing rods, most of which looked heavy enough for the ocean. There was an enormous cooler. There was a folding chair, an electric trolling motor, a massive auto battery, and – “A portable TV?” Bill said.

Yes indeed, and no kidding. There was all of that…and of course the dog.

“Careful with that battery,” we heard the man call, as the lady struggled to manhandle the heavy 12-volter into the canoe. “It’s brand new.”

Then he turned back toward the truck.

“Okay, we’re ready,” he called, and a matronly woman in a turquoise pants suit climbed down from the truck too. She had on a wide-brimmed sun hat. He called her Momma.

Momma looked over our way.

“You-all going fishing?”

“Yes ma’am,” answered Bill.

“Well,” she replied, cocking her head toward the fly rods, “you sure got wimpy poles.”

Ready at last, we pushed our own canoe into the water. Bill eased it toward a spot on the near bank. “I’ve done pretty well here,” he said. “Cast over there and see what happens.”

I picked up the fly rod and did as instructed. A cast or two later I got a solid strike and soon boated a nice yellow perch. We admired the fish and then slipped it back into the water.

“Not bad,” I said. “Got any more secret spots you’d like to share?”

“Yeah. They’re all over the place” He picked up his own rod and sent a cast toward the bank. The strike was immediate, and his fish was the twin of the one I’d caught moments before.

We continued fishing along the shoreline. I’d catch a few, and then Bill would take a turn. It was fun.

“Those perch are some of the prettiest fish in the river,” my friend said.

“Sometimes I think they’re even as pretty as the rainbow trout.”

After a while, Bill suggested that we move to another part of the lake. As we paddled, I glanced downstream and noticed another boat – a large speedboat – sitting motionless. The smooth water reflected a mirror image of its sleek white hull.

And then – “Yeeee-hawwwww!”

“That sounded like a rebel yell,” Bill observed, “And it’s coming from that speedboat.”

There it was again – “Yeeee-hawwwww!” – this time accompanied by vigorous waving of an enormous cowboy hat.

And then that boat roared to life. It took off, and I mean took off – fast!

Needless to say, this created the small problem of a giant wake. We saw it coming and turned to meet it headon. No problem. The wake raced by.

But as we turned our gaze to follow it, we saw Momma and company bobbing gently in their own little canoe just a few yards from where they had put in.

There was Captain, manning the trolling motor. There was First Mate, riding up front with the little TV. The dog was ly-

ing atop the cooler just behind the front seat, and Momma was sitting proudly amidship in the folding chair.

I squinted, rubbed my eyes, and looked again.

Uh-oh. Here comes that wake!

We watched as the wake hit ‘em broadside. Over they went. It was done in an instant. They never had a chance.

We started to paddle toward them.

For perhaps half a second there was nothing, though the water there was only about two feet deep. Then up popped the crew: Captain first, then First Mate, then Momma.

“What the heck was that?” said Captain, looking around at the bobbing remains of his day. The canoe floated upside down like a resting whale. Around it floated the cooler and Momma’s sun hat. And paddling merrily around amidst it all was the ever-cheerful dog.

That’s when Captain realized what that upside-down canoe really meant.

“My battery!” he wailed. “Where’s my battery? I just paid 90 bucks for it, and now it’s gone!”

“Forget your battery!” shouted First Mate, louder still, now realizing the true situation too. “Where’s my TV?” “TV shmee-mee!” screamed Momma, loudest of all, as she began slogging toward shore. “I’m gonna go back to the truck and get my baseball bat in case that *-&+*!!+! boat comes back!”

Captain and First Mate turned for shore too. But the dog, apparently done with the water too, got there first.

Captain followed just in time to take a full load of spray as the dog vigorously shook itself dry.

That was too much for Captain, who grabbed the poor dog and heaved him back out into the water.

“Get back in the lake, you mangy dog, and help me find that battery!”

The dog landed with a gigantic splash and, no doubt thinking that this was all just another part of a very strange game, immediately began paddling around in happy circles again.

By this time our momentum had carried us within about 10 yards of the action. I looked at Bill, and Bill looked at me. There didn’t seem to be much we could do.

“Y’all need any help?” I called out doubtfully as the dog made another turn around the still-bobbing cooler.

The one called Momma heard us, looked our way, and glared.

“I think,” said Bill after a moment’s reflection, “that we should take that as a no.”

22 | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 25

XII ON CANTON

By The Salter Forehand Team Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty XII ON CANTON is Downtown Alpharetta’s only premier Gated community with limited opportunities to live, work, play in coveted Downtown. XII on Canton is a boutique, luxury community of Twelve Single Family SALTER custom built homes offering the best of both worlds; Privacy in your own gated community and living within 1/2 mile from all that downtown has to offer.

Convenient to restaurants, shopping, farmers marFOREHAND ket, food trucks, city sponsored events, the new Alpharetta City Center, and more! Homes in XII on Canton are designed by renowned architect, Stephen Fuller, in close collaboration with the community Developer bringing the vision of downtown luxury living to life. Each custom home will feature 4000 (+) sq ft, with magnificent architectural features, including covered porches, porte-cochère’s, optional pools, outdoor living areas, complimented by stunning landscape designs and community sidewalks.

From the Alpharetta Arts Center, head north on Canton Street, Community is located on the left, inside the Garden District. Only 8 remaining opportunities to “Be one of the Twelve”. Spec Homes under construction now on Lots 2 and 10, available for early 2018 delivery. Pre-Construction/ Custom Build opportunities available on Lots 1, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12. Custom Homes Builders by HK Custom Homes, Pradera Group, Boyd Construction, New-River Build and Magnolia Drive, LLC. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact agents: Charlcie Forehand 678-6134422 (or) Karen Salter 770-309-7309.

Be sure and Like our Facebook page, XII on Canton. (#BeOneofTheTwelve)

Luxurious Georgian-inspired architecture seconds from Historic Downtown Alpharetta.

Starting at $1.35M+ Please use GPS address: 310 Canton Street, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

S A LT E R F O R E H A N D T E A M Karen Salter, Charlcie Forehand + Morgan Forehand [ ks. ] 770.309.7309

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TwelveOnCanton.com © All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Marketing and Sales by Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty. Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to change without notice.

26 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

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Superior schools, beautiful suburban neighborhoods and best in class retail centers, are just a few of the many reasons home values are soaring in North Atlanta. But not for everyone. Joan Harris, a local real estate agent, says “I have many clients who never remodeled their homes and they think their homes have appreciated with the market.

These are the homes that sit on the market for 6 or more months.”

Unlocking Value. On the other, hand many homeowners are choosing to update their homes and thereby unlocking enormous appreciated value. Remodeling Expo Center’s owner, John Hogan is at the forefront of helping homeowners unlock the value in their homes.

“We are located in Roswell because it’s central to Marietta, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Milton and Cumming, and this is where just about every home has the original dated builder-grade finishes. Families are leaving the City of Atlanta for the North Atlanta Schools and they’re willing to pay top dollar for a remodeled North Atlanta home”.

I Thought Location Was Enough. In the past 20-30 years, since your home was built, we have all changed and so has our home expectations. Remodeling Expo Center’s, John Hogan, continued “we know exactly how to unlock hidden value in your home because we do it to over 200 homes per year. The obvious changes are big kitchen islands, opening up floorplans by taking down walls and in bathrooms: giant showers, free standing tubs and gorgeous vanities with smart storage solutions.”

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See VALUE, Page 27

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 27

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Alpharetta - Crabapple/Roswell/Milton 282 Rucker Road, Suite 110 • Alpharetta, GA 30004 | Office: (678) 240-2201 Atlanta NE - Norcross 4870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. • Norcross, GA 30071 | Office: (770) 255-3380 Cartersville 477 East Main Street • Cartersville, GA 30121 | Office: (770) 607-2801 Cumming 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1200 Douglasville 2092 Fairburn Road • Douglasville, GA 30135 | Office: (770) 947-2400 Gainesville 956 B Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 301 • Gainesville, GA 30501 | Office: (770) 535-8301 Johns Creek/Alpharetta/Duluth 9945 Jones Bridge Rd, Suite 201 • Johns Creek, GA 30022 | Office: (678) 867-2345 McDonough/Southern Crescent 2124 Jodeco Road • McDonough, GA 30253 | Office: (678) 583-9995 Smyrna 1322 Concord Rd SE • Smyrna, GA 30080 | Office: (770) 805-9652 Woodstock - Cobb Cherokee 13190 Highway 92, Suite 100-110 • Woodstock, GA 30188 | Office: (770) 517-2272 Commercial Division 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1233

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28 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

How to prepare your home for the 2018 housing market

By Bill Rawlings Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta. Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty With the holiday season in full swing, and a fresh year ahead, those of you preparing your home for the 2018 housing marketing may be interested in ways to sprouse and prepare for the new RAWLINGS year’s market. Good news: we have a few tips to help. Home improvements can be tedious, but do not be overwhelmed! By simply tackling one project at a time, your home could be completely transformed by the end of the year. Clean up 2017 with these ideas: Landscape – Landscape and curb appeal are vital first impressions that new home buyers will see. Simple things such as updating the lawn and planting new trees and bushes, perhaps even hiring a professional landscaper, will help your home stand out in 2018.

By attracting a buyer from the outside, you instantly intrigue them and leave them wanting to know more about the interior.

Repairs – In an effort to avoid discouraging potential buyers from making an offer, you want to make sure your home is in the best possible condition when they come though. Now is the time to make simple repairs, such as the pesky broken window, door crack or

roof leak.

Declutter – Before potential buyers tour your home, deep clean throughout and clear away your possessions. If you have a disorganized home with overflowing closets and a garage with no space for a car, now is the time to take care of this before you put your home on the market. Today’s buyers have high expectations for home conditions.

From its first day on the market, your home should be in prime condition in order to sell quickly for the best possible price.

Stay focused on its overall appeal and increase the enjoyment of your home. Not sure where to start? The REALTORS® at Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty can offer professional advice and walk through your home to provide opinions of the best renovations and improvements to help you prepare for the market!

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951 Firetower Road | Jasper, Georgia 30143 A place of laughter and many good times: parties, weddings or just a weekend music fest! “The Castle,” 951 Firetower Road, is perfect for entertaining and has hosted wedding events, family retreats, business events and Renaissance-themed parties. It even comes with medieval costumes to continue tradition.

This unique home, hidden atop Tally Mountain in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is a collaboration of husband and wife.

She wanted Country French, and he wanted a castle.

The owners describe the evolution of their home’s design as a move from a modest French Country cottage to a more castle inspired design. The only remnant of the French-country inspiration is the castle’s sole, conically-roofed turret, which houses a threestory spiral staircase that romantically winds its way from the basement to the third floor.

“We have worked so hard to build this place into what it is … we truly appreciate all of those who have helped capture the true essence of what it feels like to experience this great property,”. “It is really a special place, and we sincerely hope the new owners can experience all of the happiness and joy we have.”

Surrounded by 9+/- acres of hardwoods and mountain laurels, this mountain retreat offers peace, privacy and relaxation. From the moment you turn off Firetower Road, you feel the intimacy and privacy the property offers.

As you enter the home, it opens

onto a two-story family gathering room with a fireplace and many windows looking out to Mount Oglethorpe and the Sassafras Mountains.

This two-story great room opens to a catering kitchen with COHEN custom cabinets, hammered copper sinks, a gas cooktop island, 20-foot, L-shape granite countertop bar, a wine rack, icemaker, wine cooler and scenic custom tile backsplash. The adjoining dining area overlooks one of three covered decks and offers a scenic mountain view.

Gallery hall and owner retreat are exclusive to the second level. Winding stairs descend to the finished basement with a exercise room, full bathroom, office and a recreation room with plentiful storage areas.

This three-bedroom, three- and one-half-bathroom home with an expansive second level master retreat is located in Jasper, Georgia. Jasper is roughly 50 miles north of Atlanta and nicknamed “The First Mountain City.”

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It has been estimated that 12 percent of the world’s population live in mountain areas. It’s time for new owners, and if you hear the mountains calling, this may just be the “mountain home” for you!

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 29

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30 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

COMMUNITY

Bob Farley: Truly a man for all seasons Two days later – and I still find it hard to find the words to express how I feel at the news that Bob Farley died in his sleep.

He was a man of seemingly boundless energy. He was SCENE & HURD a man who lived Hatcher Hurd hatcher@appenmediagroup.com and breathed the theater.

More importantly, he breathed the theater into this community and made it an inseparable part of the North Fulton life – or at least that part of life that makes the rest of the humdrum worthwhile.

Most people know Robert J. Farley as the man who, along with his wife Anita Allen-Farley, started the Georgia Ensemble Theatre in Roswell. That was in 1992. I arrived on the scene in North Fulton in January 1993. I was pleased to hear the news a new theater was opening.

Their first season would begin that spring.

In my days with the Marietta Daily Journal, part of my duties had been that of theater critic. That is to say, I

was willing to drive into Atlanta to write about the theater scene there, and the Journal was willing to publish my articles.

I received no extra pay for this, but I felt well compensated nevertheless. I had the opportunity to see a number of great plays, talk to actors, playwrights (Athol Fugard and August Wilson among them) and the artistic director of the Alliance Theater Bob Farley.

He made the Alliance a theater that gave new playwrights an opportunity.

And he brought challenging plays to the stage. In short, Bob was an artist.

Artists live mostly along the edge of human perception and dare you to come peek over the edge with them and learn something about yourself.

Bob did it gently. He liked for you to think it was your idea.

I envied Bob on many levels. Not the least of which was his fearlessness to live the life of an artist. While the Walter Mittys of the world (myself included) dream of such a life in those quiet moments of reverie, while artists like Bob and Anita laid it on the line.

You would get better odds in Vegas than betting on someone starting a theater from scratch in Roswell, Georgia.

But Roswell was really a perfect spot

when you looked closely. It already had an artist colony of painters and art festivals.

Under its Parks and Recreation Department, classes for the arts from dance to the visual arts abound.

Roswell has always been keen to listen to a different drummer. But Bob was more Pied Piper. He could paint a picture in your mind of what could be.

And then he would take you there.

He and Anita made Georgia Ensemble Theatre happen. He drew other artists like moths to his flame. But his was the flame of living, breathing theater. Theater touches the soul like no other experience. It is in the moment.

And Bob could put an audience in that moment and make the audience reach a place in the mind they had not been before. It might be one of deep introspection such as in “Elephant Man” or “To kill a Mockingbird.”

It might just be something for the pure joy of a “Pump Boys and Dinettes.”

Because his light burned so bright, he was able to attract other talented artists to people his stage and who indeed did become his ensemble players – and directors, musicians, playwrights, costumers and others.

Robert J. Farley Bob’s gifts to this community are enormous. He lit the flame in so many other artists and then gave them their chance to live the artist’s dream. For the rest of us, he gave us that connection that completes the live theater experience.

We as the audience give or withhold our approval. It must be earned always.

In return, we the audience receive something much more special. What we receive is the magic.

And now our magician is gone.

No flame burns forever. But for those who knew Bob, the glow will never dim.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 31

Libraries battle in national blood donation competition

By KATHLEEN STURGEON and JOE PARKER kathleen@appenmediagroup.com joe@appenmediagroup.com

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Donors wait their turn to give blood at Post Road Library in Forsyth County Nov. 29. The library held a friendly competition with Milton Library to see which branch could collect the most blood.

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MILTON/FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Patrons at two local libraries quite literally drew blood in a strong competition.

Post Road Library, a branch of the Forsyth County Public Library, and the Milton Library, a branch of the AtlantaFulton Public Library System, teamed up in a friendly competition to see who could donate the most blood Nov. 29 for the American Red Cross.

Milton Library Branch Manager Todd Williamson said he proposed the idea last spring to conduct the competition.

“I thought it would be a nice way to have a little friendly competition along city and county lines,” he said. “But the real winner is the Red Cross.”

Post Road Branch Manager Ann Decherd said they are grateful to the patrons for their support of the blood drive programs.

“We hope others in our community will stop by the library, check out a book and settle in to help someone in need with a life-giving blood donation, and help us beat the Milton Library,” Decherd said. “We’d really like to win those bragging rights.”

While the competition is lighthearted, the Red Cross stresses the need for blood because every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood, according to Cheryl Mahan, donor recruitment account manager for the Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region.

The donations will go to hospitals

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and medical facilities to help patients.

“Blood donations are needed every day for patients with many serious medical conditions,” Mahan said. “As a national network, the Red Cross has a unique responsibility to help ensure blood is available for patients whenever and wherever it is needed. By donating blood through the Red Cross, donors may be helping patients in their community or patients across the nation.”

The Cumming and Post Road libraries host regular monthly blood drives, so they thought the chance to team up with the Milton Library would get donors from both communities involved, according to Paula Glover, promotions specialist for the Forsyth County Public Library.

“At first glance, a library may seem like an odd spot for a blood drive,” Glover said. “But truly, Forsyth’s libraries are a hub for community gathering and activity. Our patrons are interested in giving back to the community, and opening our facilities for hosting blood drives makes it convenient for our patrons to do something meaningful for others in need.”

In the end, Post Road Library took home the trophy after it collected 41 pints of blood, upping their usual collection of 30-35 pints. Milton Library collected 26 pints of blood. The total 67 pints can help save 201 patients’ lives over the holiday season.

For anyone who missed the challenge, the Post Road Library will be hosting another donation on Dec. 18 and Jan. 22, 2018. The Cumming Library will also host blood drives on Dec. 1 and, Jan. 5, 2018. More information is available at forsythpl.org.

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32 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BLESSED TRINITY 28, MARY PERSONS 7:

SPORTS

Blessed Trinity punches its ticket to the state championship

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH, Ga. — For the second time in three years, Blessed Trinity will vie for the state title.

“It’s unlike anything,” BT head coach Tim McFarlin said. “It’s just such a privilege to get to play for the state championship, and we feel very honored.”

The Titans earned a state championship berth Friday night with a stout performance against Mary Persons.

And in continuing the theme of Blessed Trinity’s run, it was the defense that powered their 28-7 win.

BT gave up just a single score to the Bulldogs who averaged 33 points per game prior to Friday’s semifinal matchup. The Bulldogs’ seven points was their lowest total since their second game of the 2014 season.

The Titans have allowed just three touchdowns in the playoffs against three teams ranked in the top-five in the state.

“The defense has played outstanding,” McFarlin said. “They kept giving us great field position. When you stop [Mary Persons] deep in their own terri-

tory and get the ball at midfield, that’s huge.”

The Titans also forced multiple sacks and Jake Rudolph recovered a fumble.

In addition to the Titan’s defense, McFarlin said the offensive line has been crucial to their postseason success.

It’s an offensive line that was all new for 2017, with all five starters from last year’s squad graduated.

“They have just matured and developed so well,” McFarlin said.

His offensive line powered the Titans’ rushing game to another 200plus yard performance. The running back duo of Elijah Green and Steele Chambers combined for all four of BT’s touchdowns, with Green compiling 140 yards rushing.

Quarterback Jake Smith and Ryan Davis also connected for 67 yards through the air. “[Smith and Davis] really give us balance with the run game and we’re very fortunate to have them,” McFarlin said. “They’ve been playing together since the fourth grade and you can feel that connection out there on the field.

Chambers got the scoring started

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with an 8-yard touchdown run on BT’s opening possession.

BT extended their lead to 14-0 after Green rushed five times on the Titans’ eight-play, 65-yard touchdown drive.

Chambers capped of the drive with a 25-yard backside screen, trotting untouched into the end zone.

After missing a 49-yard field goal, then making another defensive stop, BT looked poised to extend their lead.

However, a Jake Smith interception allowed the Bulldogs to drive down the field and score in the final minute of the second quarter.

It was quite a momentum shift for Mary Persons, who didn’t have much to cheer about in the first half.

In the locker room, McFarlin took the blame for the turnover, but told his team that they had overcome adversity all season, and this was another chance.

His team responded.

The Titans opened the second half by forcing a turnover on downs with Raleigh Barden recording a sack on fourth-and-2 to end the Bulldogs’ drive.

BT’s defense forced another punt,

setting up their offense to extend the margin.

Utilizing Green for most of the drive, BT drove 69 yards on eight plays, capped off by a 15-yard Green rushing score. That gave the Titans a 21-7 lead in the final minute of the third quarter.

BT then forced a three and out to set up the offense at their own 37-yard line.

Following a 30-yard rush from Green to open the drive, BT was in the end zone just three plays later on a 28-yard scamper by Chambers to go up 28-7.

Another three and out from Mary Persons allowed BT to run out the final five minutes of clock, followed by a state championship berth celebration.

The Titans will face region foes Marist in the Class 4A state championship game Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Marist (14-0) downed BT 25-24 in the regular season, one of BT’s two losses this season (12-2).

“Right now, we’re going to celebrate this one,” McFarlin said. “We will start thinking about Marist [Saturday].”

“We’re tired and we are going to get the soreness out,” he said. “When you go 15 weeks, that’s a long season. But we think we have one more in us.”

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 33

Dr. Ryland Gore to join North Atlanta breast care in Cumming CUMMING, Ga. — A highly regarded breast cancer surgeon, Dr. Ryland Gore, who was born at Northside Hospital, is now practicing medicine there.

“I feel like I’ve come full circle as a new physician with Northside and am grateful for the opportunity to take care of the patients and work with these other physicians who I already hold in high esteem,” Gore said.

Gore is a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon in breast surgical oncology. She joined North Atlanta Breast Care in Cumming and will have privileges at Northside Hospital Forsyth.

North Atlanta Breast Care specializes in the diagnosis and surgical treatment for breast cancer, and all

breast-related disorders.

“We are thrilled that Dr. Gore has joined our team,” said Dr. Kim Lairet.

“She’s highly-trained in advanced breast surgery procedures and minimally-invaGORE sive techniques and provides personalized compassionate care.”

Gore is involved in studies on breast cancer, has had her research published numerous times and has served in community outreach programs as an advocate to help spread breast cancer awareness.

Forsyth County commissioners proclaim Nov. 17-23 as farm week FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — At their Nov. 16 meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners proclaimed Nov. 17-23 as Farm-City Week in Forsyth County.

As families gather around the Thanksgiving table, the Board of Commissioners acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of the one in seven Georgians working in agriculture, forestry or agriculture-related fields, and recognizes the more than $72.5 billion annual contribution agriculture makes to Georgia’s economic impact.

SPECIAL

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners gathered Nov. 16 to proclaim Nov. 17-23 as Farm-City week in Forsyth County.

“My personal clinical interests are disparities in surgical care, pregnancy associated breast cancer and public health approaches to addressing breast cancer,” Gore said. “Every patient deserves top-notch care, regardless of their

background or walk of life. I am committed to doing that and am confident that my background training in so many different settings has prepared me well for that. I don’t see ‘just a case,’ I see the person and meet them where they are.”

In Memoriam

Pamela Holland Battin Pamela Holland Battin of Cumming, Georgia, born on July 7, 1943 in Columbus, Indiana, went to heaven November 23, 2017.

She loved the Lord and was very active in all of the churches she was a member. She lived in Indiana, Illinois, Maryland, Washington D.C., Turkey, back to Maryland, and in Georgia since 1993. She was a substitute teacher K thru 6th grade in Maryland from 1974 to 1993. She enjoyed studying the Bible, laughing, playing games, and traveling, having been in every state except Oregon. She saw the ruins of 5 of the 7 churches in Asia and

the Holy Land while spending 2 years and 9 months in Turkey as her husband, Charles, was in the Air Force. She was active as a member of Antioch Christian Church in Canton, GA where the memorial service will be held at 11:30am on Saturday December 16, 2017. She is survived by her husband of almost 56 years Charles H. Battin, son Brian K. Battin, daughter Jane K. Brown, two grandsons Dane L. Battin and Sean A. Brown, and one granddaughter Brittany A. Brown. The family asks in lieu of flowers please donate to the Antioch Christian Church future building fund.

34 | December 7, 2017 | 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 •

Help Wanted Full-time CDL DRIVERS Wanted.

Knowledge of Greater Atlanta beneficial. Local driving only. Medical insurance available. Call 770-8891550 or apply online at www.conexrecycling.com LEAD MECHANIC Organizing, scheduling, prioritizing, delegating maintenance work and carrying out of assignments.

ASE certified, MV report in good standing, formal technical industry schooling, adherence to DOT regulations, pass drug test, Spanish-speaking a plus. 770-740-9739 TA X SENIOR ASSOCIATE, established Alpharetta CPA firm.

Professional growth opportunity. BALANCED lifestyle, non-traditional environment.

Direct contact with diverse client base routinely. Prepare individual & business income tax (including multi-state) returns .

Highly motivated, licensed CPA or enrolled agent, recent public accounting experience (3-10 years).

Excellent written & verbal communication skills, experience in representation & communication with taxing authorities a plus. Full/ part-time Competitive salary, bonus, benefits.

Resume: jobsacct1@ gmail.com Auto Detail

NOW HIRING

Mammoth Detail Salon is offering part time and full time work positions for responsible, hard-working young men and women who are looking for a great workplace experience.

678-506-0011. Call to speak with a manager.

Note: $50 on-call shifts for part-time workers. www. mammothdetail.com EQUIPMENT OPERATOR & LABORERS Utility construction company.

Brent 770-815-2172

Full-time

Part-time

Sales Mgr/Partner References required. No investment.

Unlimited income. 470-239-2525

FRONT DESK Doctors office. Computer experience.

Pleasant team player. Positive attitude.

Alpharetta/ Roswell.

Resume: medoffice123@gmail.com

PRIVATE SCHOOL BUS DRIVER Needed for school in Alpharetta/Roswell area. CDL’s with P & S endoresement required.

Must have clean motor vehicle record. Very good pay! 770-887-8317

Systems Analyst: High School or equiv. + 6 month Application Development experience utilizing Java, Applets, SQL, Servlets, JSP, Tomcat, XML, HTML, Hibernate, Struts.

Mail resume to: Northstar Technologies, 3650 Mansell Rd., #225, Alpharetta, GA 30022 Part-time Part Time After School Coordinator Needed The Drake House after school program is expanding and will be adding an additional 24 hour per week staff position. If you have a love for children and learning, and are flexible and energetic, we need you on our team! This position will focus on enrichment activities for our diverse students in grades K-8th grade, in the area of the arts as well as social/ emotional competencies.

Please send resumes to 770-587-4714 or cmerritt@thedrakehouse. org.

ACCOUNTING CLERK: Work directly with controller to perform AP processing, scanning, spreadsheet analysis.

12-16 hrs/week.

Quickbooks, Excel. $13$15/hour depending on experience.

Resume: hello@frederickswanston. com

Fill your position CALL 770-442-3278 to place your ad

Auto Detail

NOW HIRING

Mammoth Detail Salon is offering part time and full time work positions for responsible, hard-working young men and women who are looking for a great workplace experience.

678-506-0011. Call to speak with a manager.

Note: $50 on-call shifts for part-time workers. www. mammothdetail.com

Volunteer Service VISTA VOLUNTEER POSITION United Way of Forsyth County announces a position for a VISTA Volunteer as an Information and Referral Specialist to develop and market an in-depth community resource guide.

This VISTA opportunity is a oneyear, full-time volunteer position with a monthly stipend. For information contact melissa@ unitedwayforsyth.com

Sales Garage Sale GOLF WARE HOUSE SALE: 1060 Union Center Drive Suite D, 30004.

Saturday 12/9, 10am-3pm.

Men’s and Women’s Blem Golf Shoes from $4.99, New Apparel from $9.99 and some accessories.

Moving Sale SUWANEE 1120 Anthony Court. Friday 12/8 and Saturday 12/9, 8am-1pm.

Clothes, military gear, golf clubs, toys, furniture, etc.

Animals Horses SPECIAL HORSE AND TACK AUCTION Saturday December 9th, 5pm at Pony Express Stockyard, 1852 Highway 11 South, Covington GA. A load of horses from Tennessee, also a big load of tack at this sale! For info 704-4346389 or 704-473-8715.

GA. LIC. 4198

Furniture M A P L E E N T E RTA I N M E N T CENTER, $300.

770-753-4367 CHERRY HUNT TABLE with mirror, $700.

404-889-3233 MAPLE DINING ROOM HUTCH, $400.

770-753-4367 FURNITURE GROUPING: Wicker sofas, end & coffee tables, 2 chairs. $200.

678-234-2987

Pets for Sale

OPEN HUTCH, solid cherry/brass. $900.

770-753-4367

UMBRELLA COCKATOO To best home; best offer!

Peggy 404-483-5142

BEIGE LAZY-BOY RECLINER, new. $700, originally $1099.

770-605-0399

Bargains Building Supplies Pallets (2) approx.

200sf. total.

Each paver 6.5”x6.5”. DOT approved for sidewalks and driveways. $500.

770-992-8970 VELUX SKYLIGHTS, used. (Eight, 21”x44”, two miscellaneous sizes). $250/all. 770-992-6848 leave message

Furniture BARSTOOLS 30” cherry 404-889-3233

(3) $300.

CHILDRENS’ TABLE, cherry Delta $90.

404-889-3233 GLASS TV STAND: $50.

770-312-4209 CUMMING-ESTATE SALE Antique dealers and public.

Furniture, collectibles, silver, art, kitchenware. Everything displayed in home, no signage; 470-239-7643 or 770-894-2144 DINING TABLE: Solid cherry 48” round. Leaf, pad, 4 upholstered chairs $650. 770-380-6646

DINING ROOM TABLE, glass top, cherry inlay, 6 covered roll-back chairs $800. 404-889-3233 BAR STOOLS, swivel seats & backs. Two 24”, one 29”, all wood construction; great condition! $15 each.

770-888-2790 END TABLES: 2, $40 each. 770-312-4209 Antique Queen Anne Sofa - over 100 years old.

Excellent condition. Ask $1500 obo. 678-463-8421 SHIPS DOOR COFFEE TABLE: $100.

678-234-2987 CHAIRS: 2 upholstered Country French, good condition! $400/both.

404-290-4198 TWIN BEDS (2), mattresses included, solid maple frames $75/each.

678-232-5654

Household FRIGIDAIRE FREEZER $125. 404-889-3233 GE GAS STOVE, $225.

678-513-9985 GE MICROWAVE $100.

678-513-9985 GE DISHWASHER, $100.

678-513-9985

MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued on page 35

*Some Restrictions

CADNET ADS

Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license identification or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in U.S. dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

Autos Wanted

Insurance

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

All Makes/Models 2000-2016!

Any Condition.

Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing!

We’re Nationwide!

Call Now: 1-888-985-1806

DENTAL Insurance

GOT AN OLDER CAR, VAN OR SUV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1-855-558-3509

Employment Opportunities $$$WORK FROM HOME$$$ Earn $2,845 Weekly assembling Information packets.

No Experience Necessary! Start Immediately!

FREE Information 24hrs. www.RivasPublishing.com or 1-800-250-7884

Physicians Mutual Insurance Company A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve � If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about $1 a day* � Keep your own dentist! NO networks to worry about � No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow � Coverage for over 350 procedures – including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns...even dentures � NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits you can receive

FREE Information Kit 1-877-308-2834 www.dental50plus.com/cadnet *Individual plan. Product not available in MN, MT, NH, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096C MB16-NM001Gc

Miscellaneous

Paid in Advance! Make $1,000 a Week Mailing Brochures From Home! www.

EasyCash77.com ######## Earn $1,000’S! Processing Mail! Rush SASE: Lists/CAD, Springhouse, PA 19477-0396

The Family Gourmet Buffet

Health & Fitness GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 50 Pills $95.00 FREE Shipping!

100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 800-317-2145

Medical Suffering from Knee or Back Pain? Learn How a Brace Can Help! Fast & Easy Medicare Approvals. FREE Shipping. Relieve Your Pain Now! 24/7 Call Center. CALL 1- 844-502-1809

Miscellaneous ENJOY 100% guaranteed, delivered to-the-door Omaha Steaks! SAVE 75% PLUS get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa FREE! Order The Family Gourmet Buffet - ONLY $49.99. Call 1-855-895-0358 mention code 51689LCX or visit www.omahasteaks.com/ cook03 Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now!

Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888-909-9905 18+.

Lung Cancer? And Age 60+?

You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. Call 866-428-1639 for Information. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket.

Plus, 4 more Burgers and 4 more Kielbasa

FREE

2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons 2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.)

2 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 (3 oz.) Kielbasa Sausages 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (3 oz.) Potatoes au Gratin 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets OS Seasoning Packet (.33 oz.)

51689LCX | $199.90* separately

Combo Price $4999

*Savings shown over aggregated single item base price.

Call 1-855-895-0358 ask for 51689LCX www.OmahaSteaks.com/cook03

Limit 2 pkgs. Free gifts must ship with #51689. Standard S&H will be added. Expires 2/28/18. ©2017 OCG | 17M1957 | Omaha Steaks, Inc.

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

Become a published author!

Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores.

CALL Christian Faith Publishing for your FREE author submission kit.

1-855-548-5979

DISH Network.

190+ Channels. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/ month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1-855-837-9146

A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today!

Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-844-722-7993

Wanted to Buy

Spectrum Triple Play!

TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed No contract or commitment.

More Channels.

Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-855-652-9304 HughesNet Satellite Internet ? 25mbps for just $49.99/ mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. No phone line required! FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation! Call 1-855-440-4911

ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes.

Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads. com for more information CASH PAID- up to $25/ Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT. 1-800-371-1136 Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests.

Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

MAIN CLASSIFIEDS

continued from page 34 Miscellaneous

Cemetery

DUNE RACER (kids) $100. 404-889-3233

ROSWELL HISTORICAL CEMETERY 20x20 family plot. Email serious offers only to: sentdrab@comcast.net

STROLLERS 404-889-3233

$40.

MENS’ SIZE 52 shorts, bathing suits, pants, XXL shirts & Bayberry topcoat. $3 & up. 678-807-8716 YA M A H A 4-WHEELER 404-889-3233

kids’ $100.

POLARIS Kids’ 4-Wheeler $100. 404-889-3233

Musical Instruments 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 ALTO SAXAPHONE: Armstrong brand, includes case, need repair $100.

678-232-5654

Recreation SKIS, BOOTS, POLES, womens’ and mens’ 7/1/2 and 9-1/2. $400.

404-889-3233 DURASPORT SPA: 3 person, octagonal shape, 210 gallons of water, runs on 110 or 220. 2 speed jets and lighted. 2-1/2 years old. $700, originally $2400. 770-781-8321 Nautilus StairMaster FreeClimber vertical climbing machines with an independent step action, excellent condition! $799/ OBO. 404-455-8845 POOL TABLE: 8’ Olhausen. $775.

404-409-9618 (Milton)

Wanted to Buy LOOKING TO BUY OLD DOLLS including vintage & antique bisque, composition, vinyl, plastic, wooden, doll parts, clothing, accessories, and more! Please, no new porcelain dolls. All will be considered. Call 214-883-8216 (local number)

Cemetery Greenlawn/Roswell 2 lots. Crucifiction Section, 75-D, lots 3 & 4. $9000 each. 404-379-0220

Greenlawn Cemetery: 3 side-by-side lots, Fountain B: Sell all or separate. $2500/lot negotiable, list price $5000/lot.

770-490-6425 GREENLAWN ROSWELL Beautiful, sought-after location next to lake with fountain. Adjacent to marble/stone bench.

Shady, wooded hill above lake. Natural space for quiet meditation. For one casket or multiple urns. Please visit “Virtual Tour” feature, Greenlawn Cemetery website; choose “THE LAKE Location”. Lot 2-B, Space 4. $6000. Motivated!

828-891-2446; gilld@ earthlink.net

Transportation Cars WE BUY YOUR CAR WE PAY CASH! Any condition.

Call 404-604-7834 for cash offer! www. thecrewautosale.com

Trucks SUNSEEKER RV/2900, 2008: 34,600 miles. $18,000. 425-299-8785

Instruction Classes ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES . $15-$45/ class. Windows, Excel, e-bay, photo editing, Microsoft Word, internet, e-mail etc.

Roswell Adult Recreation Center 770-641-3950. http:// w w w. r o s w e l l a l c . o r g / rscalendar.htm

Personal Services Eldercare YOUR HOME: Nights or days. 8-12 hours. $14/ hour.Verifiable references.

20+ years experience.

Transportation.

Nonsmoker/Englishspeaking.

No pets.

4 7 0 - 7 7 9 - 4 7 2 3 / 470-545-1910

ForsythHerald.com forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 7, 2017 | 35

SERVICE DIRECTORY Cleaning Services

Flooring

ESTATE HOME CLEAN UP Divorcing? Loved one going into senior care?

Specialized detailed cleaning, packing boxes with list of items. Debris clean-up, charity donation, interior/exterior window cleaning, pressure washing. Loving Hands

by JW and Company Inc. 678-463-4577. jennifer@ jwcompanyinc.com

PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen backsplashes.

Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Concrete/Asphalt WE FIX UGLY DRIVEWAYS AND PATIOS.

$150 OFF any job over $1500 New or Repair: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. Residential or Commercial. Call for FREE estimate. The Best Concrete CompanyProfessional, competitive, many local references.

Ask for Dave McKemey.

678-648-2010.

RETAINING WALLS & CONCRETE WORK We build retaining walls.

Local, reliable, honest, experienced. Call Ralph at 678-898-7237

Driveway REPAIR or REPLACEMENT Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. $150 off any job over $1500.

Residential or Commercial.

Competitive pricing.

Many local references.

For a FREE estimate call Dave of McKemey Concrete and Hardscapes 678-914-2576.

DRIVEWAY REPLACEMENT: Patios and walkways.

Stonework. 17 years experience. Hundreds of reviews online; see our online photo gallery: Sudlowconcrete.com 404-450-3753

Drywall NEED A BEDROOM OR BASEMENT FINISHED? Drywall services. Drywall so clean you won’t see lines! 678-909-9773 Call for consultation.

Install/Repairs: Carpet, Laminate, Tile (wall/ floor), Vinyl, Wood. Free Estimates!

I can remove carpet wrinkles.

Restretches start $35/ room. 706-429-4453

Gutters AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aaronsgutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 770-934-2766

Handyman ALL CARPENTRY & REPAIRS: Roof Leaks, Wood Rot Repair, Siding, Deck Repairs and Refinishing, Painting, Doors/Windows.

Excellent References.

404-895-0260 RELIABLE HOME REPAIRS: 22 years experience.

References. Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, wood rot repair, siding, painting, pressure washing.

Free estimates!

770-605-0340 RAM’S HOME SERVICES Kitchen hardware replaced. Appliances and ceiling fans installed. Sink/ toilet/leak repair. www. ramshs.com for list of services. Experienced.

770-769-5498

Kitchen

&

Bath:

Plumbing, Electrical Drywall and Other Repairs and Installations. Home Maintenance. Small Jobs Preferred. Call Mike.

404-647-1406

Home Improvement

PATIOS-DECKS DRIVEWAYS SIDEWALKS & WALLS $150 OFF any job over $1500 Many local references.

Call Dave McKemey at 678-648-2010 Finegan Home Improvements LLC: License #RBQA004932.

Remodeling, handyman.

31 years experience.

Basements finished, decks, screen porches, doors, drywall, painting, flooring, custom kitchens, bathrooms. All insurance. Paul Finegan 404-353-5611 Phillips Home Improvement We offer drywall, painting, carpentry, plumbing and electrical.

Basements finished, kitchen and bath rehabs. All types flooring.

Also total home rehab for those who have a rental house or one to sell. Call 678-887-1868 for a free estimate

Landscaping RAS Landscape Design Installation A full service landscape company capable of doing your job.

25+ years experience. Ralph 678-898-7237

Lawn Care LEAVE THE MOWING TO US”A”! Weekly/Bi-weekly Lawn mowing/landscape.

Mulch & Pine-straw Installation.

Licensed/ Insured/free est. Call or text: 678-727-6850 www. gagreenworks.com

Painters

Auto Donations

Miscellaneous

J&J PAINTING OF GEORGIA Trusted-Family Owned.

20+ Years Experience.

Fully Licensed and Insured.

FREE ESTIMATES! A+ BBB Rating. 770-715-5322.

JANDJPAINTINGOFGA. COM

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $95.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW 800-317-7404 Hablamos Espanol

Pinestraw PINESTRAW, mulch delivery/installation available.

Firewood $110/$200, plus delivery.

Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612.

Tree Services JJ Tree Cutting Services.

Complete Tree RemovalCall us for a Free Quote, 678-467-1325 or 770-630-6672. Licensed and insured. jjtreecutting@ gmail.com RAS Cutting Services Complete tree removal.

Ralph 678-898-7237 404Cuttree. One of the most experienced and reliable tree companies in North Atlanta. Perfect reviews and reliable, professional, and honest service.

Free quotes.

Fully insured. 770Tree. com 678-506-0006 Yellow Ribbon Tree.

Near perfect reviews and award-winning service. Hands on owner.

Free estimates and insured.

770Tree.com 770-744-2200 and ask for Gary.

BOLD TYPE

will really make your ad stand out. 770-442-3278

A small list of really good tree services.

Screened and vetted local services From

Need work done on your home?

Call the Experts

in the

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Autos Wanted CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

All Make/Models 2000-2015!

Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

Educational 25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Earn $1000 per week! Paid CDL Training!

STEVENS TRANSPORT COVERS ALL COSTS! 1-877209-1309 drive4stevens.com

Financial Over $10K in debt? Be debt free in 24-48 months. Pay nothing to enroll. Call National Debt Relief at 866-243-0510.

Health & Medical FREE VIAGRA PILLS 48 PILLS + 4 FREE! VIAGRA 100MG/ CIALIS 20mg Free Pills! No hassle, Discreet Shipping. Save Now. Call Today 1-888-410-0514 Generic VIAGRA 100mg Generic CIALIS 20mg. 70 for $99 GREAT DEAL!!!! FAST FREE SHIPPING! 100% money back GUARANTEE! CALL NOW 888-869-9343 Se habla espanol 888-713-3919

Medical OXYGEN Anytime.

Anywhere. No tanks to refill.

No deliveries. The All-New Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds! FAA approved! FREE info kit: 844-558-7482 VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed.

Money back guaranteed!

1-888-278-6168 DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures.

888-623-3036 or http:// www.dental50plus.com/58 Ad# 6118

Miscellaneous

Haulers Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc.

Many local references.

Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Every time you use 770Tree.com to request an estimate, Appen-Rated makes a donation to North Fulton Community Charities or The Drake House.

Do good & get great tree work too!

DISH Network-Satellite Television Services. Now Over 190 channels for ONLY $49.99/ mo! 2-year price guarantee.

FREE Installation. FREE Streaming. More reliable than Cable. Add Internet for $14.95 a month. 800-718-1593.

HOTELS FOR HEROES – to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at www. fisherhouse.org Make a Connection.

Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+ FINAL EXPENSE INSURANCE. No medical exams!

Premiums never increase. Benefits never go down.

Affordable monthly payments. Call for a free quote! 877-587-4169 Bathe safely and stay in the home you love with the #1 selling walk-in tub in North America. For an in-home appointment, call: 888-308-5610 CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies. com NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book.

FREE author submission kit!

Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 866-951-7214 CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2000 and Newer.

Nation’s Top Car Buyer! Free Towing From Anywhere! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.

Lung Cancer? And 60+ Years Old? If So, You And Your Family May Be Entitled To A Significant Cash Award. Call 855-547-8865 To Learn More.

No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket.

The nation’s largest senior living referral service. A PLACE FOR MOM. Contact our trusted, local experts today!

Our service is FREE. No obligation. CALL 855-741-7459

Motorcycles Wanted to Buy WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI Z1-900 (1972-75), KZ900, KZ1000 (1976-1982), Z1R, KZ 1000MK2 (1979,80), W1-650, H1-500 (1969-72), H2-750 (1972-1975), S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, KH250, KH400, SUZUKI-GS400, GT380, HONDA-CB750K (1969-1976), CBX1000 (1979,80) CASH!!

1-800-772-1142 1-310-7210726 usa@classicrunners.com

Have A Great Day!

36 | December 7, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com