Forsyth Herald, December 10, 2014

Health & Wellness Sponsored section ►►PAGE 20

38 iPods stolen

Man makes two trips in theft ►►PAGE 2

Going Green

FCHS takes 2nd

Get the dirt on composting ►►PAGE 31

Theater program impresses at state ►►PAGE 10

December 10, 2014 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 17, No. 49

Sheriff’s deputies collect toys for needy children

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

From left are Cpl. Matt Scott, Cpl. Jody Caldwell, Post Commander Tim Meyer, Trooper Michael Tennant, Sgt. Curtis Bradshaw and Forsyth Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Robin Regan.

CUMMING, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office put away their real guns to collect toy versions Dec. 2 at their Toys for Tots drive.

The drive was held at Walmart, 1500 Market Place Blvd., and the sheriff’s deputies teamed up with others to collect as many toys as possible.

“Each year, the State Patrol partners with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots event foundation in order to raise funds and toys for the needy,” said Post Commander Tim Meyer with the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Meyer said the drive was prosperous.

“I think we got a couple hundred dollars in cash and a couple hundred toys,” said Meyer. “For a Tuesday after-

noon, it’s been really successful. We don’t have numbers goals, but really our impact on the community and people we serve.”

For anyone who missed this event, the Georgia State Patrol will be collecting more toys at future events.

“We have two more scheduled events — one in Lumpkin County and Dawson County,” said Meyer. “We do have boxes at locations throughout Forsyth County and they can drop toys off at the State Patrol Office until Dec. 20.”

Forsyth Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Robin Regan said the event is always good every year.

“The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office looks forward to continuing with Georgia State Patrol and doing the Toys for Tots drive,” said Regan.

Community gathers to Euthanasia rate drops drastically at animal shelter mourn Sydney Ridings

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Animal lovers who were enraged when the 43.5 percent kill rate for September at the Forsyth County Animal Shelter was announced, will be thankful to know the rate has been drastically reduced.

The shelter opened in August at 4065 County Way and has since struggled to adopt out animals. Since that Forsyth County Animal Control and Shelter Advisory Committee meeting Oct. 22, some things have changed.

The shelter has accepted help from animal rescue organizations and has

changed policies to help the animals have a better quality of life and better chance of being adopted.

These changes resulted in a 25.5 percent euthanasia rate for October and a 20.2 percent rate for November, almost half of what it was in September. The shelter has not euthanized due to a lack of space since the new facility opened.

Tim Merritt, the deputy county manager for Forsyth, is a committee member for the shelter.

“I believe [the September kill rate] was the result of the moving all the

See SHELTER, Page 35

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Red balloons filled the sky as members from around the community gathered Nov. 29 to celebrate the life and mourn the death of Sydney Ridings.

Ridings, 14, passed away Nov. 28 after fighting Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, since she was diagnosed in August 2011.

In February, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (FCS) wanted to honor Ridings while still helping to make a

See RIDINGS, Page 29

ALDO NAHED/ARCHIVE

Sydney Ridings, left, with her mother, Tammy Ridings, at the St. Baldrick’s fundraiser in February.

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38 iPods stolen from Target

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CUMMING, Ga. — A man swiped the keys to the electronics cabinet and stole all the iPods inside totaling $8,140, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

Loss prevention employees of Target, 2625 Peachtree Parkway, told deputies a man stole a set of keys belonging to the electronics department Nov. 19.

After reviewing video surveillance, deputies said they saw an employee leave the keys on a counter and then go back to work on his laptop.

A few minutes later, footage showed the suspect grab the keys while the employee wasn’t looking and take them to a woman in the store.

The man and woman left the store only to return a few minutes later.

POLICE BLOTTER All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

Woman loses $1,800 in secret shopper scam CUMMING, Ga. — A woman willingly joined a secret shopper program but had no idea she would end up losing $1,788 to a scammer, according to a Cumming Police incident report.

A woman from Decatur told local officers she got an email from a payment update address in reference to the secret shopper program she signed up for Nov. 8.

A few days later, the woman said she got a check for $1,788 with specific instructions to deposit it at a bank.

In another email, the scammer threatened to take legal action against the woman if she did not follow through with the instructions.

The woman said she deposited the check in an ATM in Cumming, and she then went to a convenience store off Main Street and bought three gift cards for $490 each.

She emailed the scammer the gift card numbers.

The next day, the woman’s bank debited her account for $1,788 due to insufficient funds.

Copper stolen off work truck beds CUMMING, Ga. — While workers

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stopped for lunch, someone stole $233 in copper wire from their trucks, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

Two employees of Sawnee EMC told deputies they parked their pole trucks outside Los Rios Mexican Restaurant, 2950 Buford Highway, at about 12:45 p.m. Nov. 24.

When they returned after their meals an hour later, they said two rolls of copper wire were taken from the truck beds.

One employee said he saw a white pickup truck park behind his pole truck but did not see any suspect.

Deputies are reviewing video surveillance from neighboring businesses for suspicious activity.

Man runs away with leaf blower FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man could only yell as he watched a thief run away with his leaf blower in hand, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

On Dec. 1, a man in the 7000 block of Creek Ridge Drive told deputies he was mulching leaves he had blown using his Echo backpack leaf blower.

After finishing with the leaves, the man said he hopped on his riding mower and drove around to the backyard.

Then, the man walked around to the front yard and saw a man running down his driveway toward the street with his leaf blower.

The man said he yelled at the thief to stop, but the suspect jumped into a gray sedan and sped off.

Car accidently crashes into bay door FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — While a mechanic worked on a car, it accidently accelerated through the shop and crashed into a bay door, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

On Nov. 29, an employee of AAA, 7150 McGinnis Ferry Road, told deputies he was working on a 2008 Toyota Camry.

The employee said the car belonged to a handicapped customer, and the accelerator and brakes were controlled by a hand lever near the steering wheel.

Somehow, the employee said the car got put into gear and accelerated through the shop until it crashed into the bay door.

The crash shattered the bay door glass panels and left scratches along the front and sides of the car.

Car break-in at church CUMMING, Ga. — Someone broke into a car parked at a church and stole a woman’s purse, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

An employee of New Hope Church, 4815 Dawsonville Highway, told deputies she had parked her 2004 Toyota Sienna in the back parking lot at about 6:30 p.m. Nov. 29.

When she returned an hour later, she said the front passenger window was busted out and her floral purse was gone.

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Employees had surrounded the electronics department after realizing the keys were missing, so the two suspects left.

Deputies reviewed footage from Nov. 21 and saw the same man come back to the store.

Deputies said the man walked in with an empty cart and took a bag from the women’s department as he made his way to the electronics department.

The suspect used the already stolen keys to unlock the cabinet and remove all 38 iPods from the cabinet into the bag.

Then, the suspect left the store and fled in the same black sedan he was driving when he was seen stealing the keys.

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DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

DUI arrests ►► Eric Winston

Baumgardner, 31, of Old Roswell Road, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 23 on Mullinax Road in Alpharetta for DUI, speeding and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jason William Payne, 34, of Daniel Drive, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 23 on Freedom Parkway in Cumming for DUI. ►► Aimee Kerr Underwood, 35, of Gainesville was arrested Nov. 22 on Truman Mountain Road in Gainesville for DUI, failure to maintain lane and open container. ►► Kenneth Norman Wacker, 54, was arrested Nov. 21 on Webb Road in Milton for DUI and speeding. ►► Jacob Lee Henderson, 23, of Tidwell Road, Alpharetta, was arrested

Nov. 6 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, possession of marijuana, open container, expired tag and possession of drugrelated items. ►► Lacy Nicole Ford, 32, of Churchill Downs, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 16 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Andrea Fletcher, 32, of Riverwood Lane, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 10 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, possession of marijuana and failure to maintain lane. ►► Janet Anne Drake, 59, of Old Woodland Entry, Johns Creek, was arrested Nov. 15 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Wesley Murphy, 27, of Henderson Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 9 on Vaughn Drive in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jill Marie Zahm, 35, of Waterside Drive, Milton, was arrested Nov. 20 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, following too closely and failure to exchange insurance information.

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►► James Campbell Wharton

III, 53, of Burruss Mill Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 19 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and failure to exchange insurance information.

Drug arrests ►► Taylor Louise Melchiore,

22, of Suwanee was arrested Nov. 23 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for possession of marijuana. ►► Lakeisha Shenai Kent, 27, of Powder Springs was arrested Nov. 10 on Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta for possession of a schedule III controlled substance.

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 3

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 the car, but they are unsure if the incident was recorded.

Trespassers break in without stealing CUMMING, Ga. — Someone partially ransacked a man’s home and damaged property but didn’t take anything, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

A man from a home in the 7000 block of Majors Road told deputies he and his roommates returned home from dinner at

about 10 p.m. Nov. 29.

The man said the front door was unlocked but not forced opened.

When he went inside, he said his dogs were running loose and a window was open in one of the bedrooms.

The man looked around and saw items had been moved around, but he couldn’t account for anything missing.

However, the man said the suspects punctured tires to a 2005 Ford F150, 2005 Mini Cooper and 2000 Ford Ranger that were parked on the property.

The suspects also entered and ransacked a camper parked in the yard, but, again, nothing was missing.

NEWS

4 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Billboards could get height Comcast discussion reduction along Ga. 400 to continue Businesses charged with

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

CUMMING, Ga. — Drivers using Ga. 400 could soon have more to look at. At the Dec. 4 Forsyth County Board of Commissioners meeting, the commissioners discussed whether to revise the county’s sign code, Ordinance 74, to allow billboards along Ga. 400 to be reduced to 75 feet or less.

The purpose of the public hearing on this topic was for public review and comment concerning a proposed change to the Forsyth County Sign Ordinance to allow nonconforming signs adjacent to Ga. 400 that exceed 75 feet in height to be reduced in height to 75 feet or less and to repeal conflicting ordinances.

This was the first hearing on the subject. A final decision will come later.

Ken Jarrard, county attorney, explained the change to the commissioners further.

“Our [current] code would not allow the reduction to the height,” said Jarrard. “This would be a change to our ordinance.”

Citizens spoke both in favor and in opposition of the change. Those in favor of the height reduction said it is good because the billboard would be directly in view and drivers wouldn’t have to take their eyes off the road for so long.

In opposition, other citizens said that the billboards need to stay at their current height to deter drivers from even looking at them. Some speakers also commented on the visual aspect of the billboards.

Also on the agenda was a proposed modification to Forsyth County’s alcohol code. At the Nov. 6 County Commission meeting, commissioners discussed reducing the setback distance requirements for alcohol consumption on the premises licenses (whether distilled spirits, beer or wine) from 100 yards to 20 yards from schools and churches. The distance would be measured as a straight line from property line to property line.

The commissioners voted on the item but be-

violating alcohol ordinance

• BP Gas Station, 1385 McFarland Parkway: An employee of BP received a citation for underage sales. BP had the same citation issued on April 11, and a second previous citation for no ID on premises from Jan. 3, 2013. BP’s license was suspended for 60 days starting Dec. 5, and they can’t sell alcohol during that time. The gas station will also have to remove all alcohol from their store.

• AM/PM Fuels #6, 901 Buford Hwy: An employee was issued a citation for underage sales. The gas station had a prior citation for the same thing on July 13, 2013 and a second prior citation for no ID on premises on Jan. 3, 2013. Their license was suspended for 60 days starting Dec. 5, and they can’t sell alcohol during that time. The gas station will also have to remove all alcohol from their store.

• Silk Road Asian Kitchen, 872 Buford Hwy: An employee was issued a citation for underage sales and for no ID on premises. These were the first two citations in the past two years. They were issued a two-day suspension Dec. 8-9, during which time they can’t sell beer or wine.

• Johns Creek Taco Mac, 2607 Peachtree Parkway: An employee of Taco Mac was issued a citation of underage sales. There were no prior issues from the past two years.

They were given a warning letter in their file since it is the first offense.

• Buford Dam Marathon, 1620 Buford Dam Rd: An employee at Marathon was issued a citation for underage sales. There were no prior citations from the past two years, so a warning letter was put in their file. cause Commissioner Brian Tam was absent, the vote was tied. Commissioners Todd Levent and Jim Boff voted no. This caused an automatic postponement to the next meeting on Dec. 18 where they will only vote on the item.

Public hearing 7 p.m. Dec. 16

CUMMING, Ga. — Continuing a discussion that began during a November public hearing, the Cumming City Council wants to hear from the community regarding Comcast Cable and its local service.

A second public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 16, following the council’s regular monthly 6 p.m. meeting at Cumming City Hall, 100 Main St. “We wanted to provide a second chance for people to come out and speak since we think a lot people might have stayed away in November due to unseasonably cold weather the night of the first public hearing,” said Cumming Mayor H. Ford Gravitt.

No action will be taken by city leaders after the hearing, but the feedback they receive — and have received since last month through written communications — will be taken into consideration as they move forward in a renewed franchise agreement with Comcast.

See COMCAST, Page 12

Gov. Deal picks Bearden for advisory board Forsyth superintendent honored to represent county

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal announced the new members of his education advisory boards on Dec. 1, and Forsyth County School Superintendent Dr. Jef-

frey Bearden was appointed to the superintendents’ board.

The other boards feature principals, teachers and local school board members.

Bearden was the only one chosen from Forsyth Schools.

“I am honored to represent the students and staff

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of Forsyth County on this board,” said Bearden. “I look forward to working with others across the state to improve public education in BEARDEN Georgia.”

Bearden said he thinks he was selected because of the county.

“Forsyth County Schools is a national leader in public education,” said Bearden. “I believe that it is because of our commitment to doing the right thing for students that we were invited to participate. All of our schools are strong, and we provide them the flexibility to customize their schools to meet the individual needs of their community.”

Bearden said he’ll be bring-

ing some suggestions to the board based on what works now for FCS. “Personalized learning for students is a focus of our district,” said Bearden, “particularly with our national grant work in relation to our learning management system, itslearning. We also are approaching the concept of school differently with our non-traditional high school programs such as Forsyth Academy and iAchieve Virtual Academy.”

Bearden said that collaboration is essential for the success of any organization and they practice it daily in Forsyth by nurturing home-schoolcommunity connections.

“The same is true for public education in our state,” said Bearden. “We can only become stronger by focusing on one shared goal, and for us, that would be developing high quality learners that can contribute to the success of our state and nation.”

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 5

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Midway Elementary honored by state school superintendent Second school in Forsyth to earn ‘Family-Friendly Award’

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. – State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge said Forsyth County is leading Georgia in parent engagement amongst schools, when he traveled to Forsyth’s Midway Elementary on Dec. 4 to honor the school with the Family-Friendly Award.

Of the four Family-Friendly Awards given in the state of Georgia this year, Forsyth County schools have earned two. The other school was Cumming Elementary.

Barge said Midway was selected for the award due to its accessibility and communication among parents and staff, its easily accessible areas, signs that help with navigation of the school and the showcasing of fun themes in common areas such as the gym and cafeteria.

“According to studies we have seen, students do better when parents are engaged. Many times, parents want to be involved, but the school doesn’t tell them how,” Barge said.

Midway Elementary, however, is exemplifying the process for engaging parents, he said.

Midway Principal Todd Smith showed his appreciation to the staff, parents and students of Midway throughout the ceremony.

“Being more active in education has a positive reaction on learning environments,” Smith said. These are qualities that Midway demonstrates, he said.

Midway student Ja’veon Lewis gives his speech entitled, “My Midway, Our Midway.”

The award ceremony, held in Midway’s cafeteria, was attended by Barge, Smith and Associate Superintendent of Forsyth County Schools Joey Pirkle, as well as staff, students and parents of Midway Elementary. Barge was led into the ceremony by a performance by the West Forsyth High School drumline and songs by Midway’s fourth- and fifth-grade chorus. Midway student Ja’veon Lewis also gave a speech entitled, “My Midway, Our Midway.”

In a letter, Forsyth School Superintendent Dr. Jeff Bearden said, “The best schools are where home, community and school work together like Midway.”

COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 7 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Alpharetta implements local rewards program Shopping program first of its kind in the nation

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The city of Alpharetta has implemented a rewards program for shoppers that visit shops and restaurants in the Alpharetta area.

Dubbed the “Alpharetta Visitor Rewards Program,” it will utilize a smartphone app developed in Alpharetta along with Bluetooth-enabled iBeacons to log consumers’ visits to local retailers. The retailers will then give rewards in the form of coupons, chances to win free items and free products to users.

The first of its kind in the nation, this program will utilize the Rately smartphone app developed by Digital Scientists, a digital business company based in Alpharetta.

The iBeacons, which are Bluetoothpowered devices, will be able to track when a shopper enters a participating retailer or restaurant in Alpharetta, provided the shopper has downloaded the Rately app. This will earn the shopper credit for a “visit,” which will go toward their visit total. If a shopper earns enough visits, the companies reward the shopper with free or discounted products. There is no cost to either consumer or retailer in the program, as the Rately app is free of charge for consumers and the cost of the iBeacons is covered by the city of Alpharetta.

Alpharetta is the first city in the nation to sponsor the use of iBeacons in such a program.

Elizabeth Pruett of Digital Scientists said the city of Alpharetta approached Digital Scientists to implement the technology needed for the rewards program. After three months of development, the program went live Nov. 20.

Pruett said the program stressed the importance of visiting physical retailers instead of solely shopping online and is a way to connect “e-commerce and brick and mortar stores.”

“We are really excited about the program,” she said. “It’s a way to promote local shopping and keep people shopping in Alpharetta.”

Peter Tokar, the economic development director of Alpharetta, said, “The Alpharetta Visitor Rewards program gives retailers the technology tools they need to engage with local residents and make holiday shopping in Alpharetta more rewarding than ever.”

Some of the retailers participating in the Alpharetta Visitor Rewards Program include Karen’s Fabrics, Mugs on Milton, Da Vinci’s Donuts, Endurance House, Hop Alley, Tin Roof Kitchen and Alpharetta Outfitters as well as retailers within Avalon and the North Point Mall retail district.

The program will run through the holidays and continue indefinitely.

The Rately app is available on iTunes and Google Play. To view the full list of participating retailers and their visit rewards, go to www.rately.com/ alpharetta.

The Alpharetta restaurant app – Rately – is used to give discounts and deals at local businesses.

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OPINION

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Ah Christmas in Kennesaw, or happiness is still a Warm Gun I enjoy reading the AJC [yes, I do] especially the Jim Galloway column as the Political Insider. Why? Because Mr. Galloway’s job is to take what politicians say, and then does the research to determine their veracity.

It is interesting to see the self-inflated with their feet held to the fire, and on the other hand to discover that indeed they did have the facts right and can say Na-Na-NaaNaa. Galloway plays no favorites and calls them as he sees them.

Last Friday he turned his sights on the Kennesaw City Council and its reluctance to allow an Islamic storefront mosque in a half-empty strip center on busy Ga. 41.

At a public hearing goodhearted Christians came out to object to a “cult” that as one misguided resident claimed to have rituals in which members cut themselves in some sort of blood rite.

Other wild assertions were passed off as sound reasoning. Outside, Galloway reported a number of opponents of the mosque with placards and even one person passing out copies of the Constitution.

I wonder if he read it?

Kennesaw, you will remember, was the Cobb County city that drew national attention when its council members passed a city ordinance requiring every homeowner to possess a firearm.

Now it seems while they are sweet on the Second Amendment, they want to keep the First Amendment at arm’s length.

Galloway reports the shopping center in question is coming out of foreclosure with many storefronts vacant, yet they were so concerned about parking for the strip center, they did not want any Islamic

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

Now it seems while they are sweet on the Second Amendment, they want to keep the First Amendment at arm’s length. visitors to park any closer than two rows to the proposed mosque.

But in the end the council decided to obviate the whole matter and deny the Muslims the use of the building. At first the mayor had claimed the city had never authorized religious uses in commercial center.

But an embarrassing Marietta Daily Journal article came out that same day as the council’s denial to point out the mayor had a rather short memory. In July the selfsame mayor and his council had approved a Christian church use in a similar situation to use a storefront for its services.

I recall a similar – yet not so similar – contretemps in Alpharetta. Big difference though. Here the existing mosque – that was surrounded by neighborhoods – wanted to do a significant expansion.

The residents objected, and

reminded the applicants that in the original approval the applicants had agreed not to expand.

The two sides were resolute but both sides were cordial. There was no circus of protesters making wild claims about pagan rites and the possibility of fomenting terrorism. It was the usual fight of residents opposing more intense development in their area.

Alpharetta did deny the use, and it was headed to court. Both sides gave a little and a settlement was reached that allowed more modest expansion of the mosque – which had seen a large growth in its congregation since it first opened.

And they agreed to a specified time limit before being allowed to request further expansion.

In my time I have seen similar bouts between residents and all denominations – Catholic, Protest and Jewish as well as Islamic – over development. And often it tests the tolerances of all sides.

Each time it is different.

Most neighborhoods are resistant to any kind of change.

That’s the natural reaction.

Sometimes the neighborhoods seem right, sometimes not.

And sometimes it takes the Wisdom of Solomon.

What is shameful is when the politicians bow to the shouting and ignore the rights of all people including those who ask for the right to be different. These are the types who will dodge the right decision and let a judge be “the fall guy.” It does make re-election easier, but it says nothing about one’s leadership.

The right that we cherish above all is the right to worship as we see fit. And we only guarantee our rights when we give that right to all.

Merry Christmas to all.

DRIVING IN CIRCLES:

Step-by-step instructions on how to use roundabouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Lately, it seems like local transportation gurus with North Fulton’s cities have caught roundabout fever. Not to be left behind on any trend, North Fulton’s cities are plowing ahead with roundabouts. Roswell finished the first one in the region several years ago, with more to come. Milton has a new one at Hopewell and Francis roads with another upcoming at Birmingham Highway and Providence Road. Alpharetta already has one near the new city hall.

There are so many new roundabouts, I get the chance to dust off my column on navigating them.

Given the novelty of the circular traffic devices, many people are not familiar with the correct way to use them.

So here’s a quick guide on the proper use of a roundabout.

For those unfamiliar with the term, a roundabout is a circular intersection, where traffic goes in the same counter-clockwise direction around a center island.

Roundabouts can be a good alternative to traffic signals and stop signs to control traffic. In many cases, they have several advantages over traditional controls.

They have fewer accidents, injuries, severe crashes and fatalities. They increase pedestrian safety and produce less vehicle delay and pollution because traffic actually moves faster through a roundabout intersection.

Most of these bonuses are the result of traffic going at reduced – but continuous – speeds in the same direction.

Despite their relative novelty in the States, roundabouts enjoy common status in Europe, notably the British Isles, as a cheap and reliable alternative

JONATHAN COPSEY

Revue & News Editor jonathan@northfulton.com

to the traditional traffic signal.

They slow down and regulate traffic without stopping it.

With all these new roundabouts popping up like mushrooms, the big question remains – how do you drive through it?

Here’s a step-by-step guide.

When approaching the roundabout, slow down and yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.

Approach the yield line, look to the left and yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Traffic in the roundabout has the right-of-way.

Enter the roundabout when there is an adequate gap in circulating traffic.

If another car is waiting at the yield line ahead of you, do not stop in the crosswalk. Keep the crosswalk clear for pedestrians.

Bicyclists are permitted to ride within the roundabout.

Please do not pass a bicycle in the roundabout.

Once you have entered the roundabout, you always have the right-of-way. Keep your speed low within the roundabout and proceed counterclockwise (to the right).

As you approach your exit, turn on your right turn signal.

Exit the roundabout, yielding to pedestrians in the crosswalk.

Breathe a sigh of relief and be on your merry way.

See? How hard is that? It’s so easy, it should be a Geico commercial.

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10 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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FCHS theater takes second place at state competition Freshman wins best actress award

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — With a new drama teacher and a freshman playing the lead, the Forsyth Central High School (FCHS) advanced musical theater class was pleasantly surprised when they won second place in their 5-A division at the 2014 One Act Play State Championships.

The class performed “The Miracle Worker” by William Gibson on Nov. 8 at Perry High School.

Along with earning second place, freshman Peyton Ashley won best actress overall for her division.

“It makes me shake just saying it,” said Ashley. “The word ‘best’ is crazy. There were so many amazing actresses and actors in that theater who performed on that stage. They could’ve picked anyone and they said my name.”

Ashley said the win was surprising and emotional.

“It makes me want to cry because I’m kind of new at this and I’m a freshman,” said Ashley. “Being recognized for all that I put into it — I still can’t believe it. It’s breathtaking.”

Ashley first became inter-

ested in acting at a young age when her friend encouraged her. She said her favorite type of theater is drama or musical theater.

“I enjoy doing real-life things because they are actual people with actual feelings,” said Ashley. “There’s so much research you can do. It’s a great guardian to have instead of going through it blind.”

Blind she was, as Ashley performed Helen Keller at the competition. In order to prepare for a role where her character is both blind and deaf, Ashley had help from FCHS’s new theater department director, Colleen Quigley.

Quigley said the coolest rehearsal they had involved Ashley blindfolding herself and using ear plugs to see how to act like Helen Keller.

“That was pretty much selfdirected,” said Quigley. “They took it upon themselves and went with it. It was amazing.”

Quigley attributes their second place award to several different areas, but really felt like she knew the cast after their win at region.

“To win region was an amazing experience overall,” said Quigley. “I knew the show

PHOTO BY BETH LUMAN

Emily Whitley, left, as Annie Sullivan and Peyton Ashley as Helen Keller performed in Forsyth Central High School’s production of “The Miracle Worker” by William Gibson. was good and I knew I had the talent to be able to pull it off. In the aspect of being able to really integrate myself into the school and get to know my students – it was a great experience.”

Quigley said FCHS has a great history of success in general with its drama depart-

ment, so she was excited to join the staff this year.

“For me, it made me feel like this is where I’m supposed to be and this is a place I can really dig into,” said Quigley.

“It’s a great feeling. To give the seniors a positive experience like they’ve had in the past meant so much to me.”

But as for the freshman who won, Quigley said it was huge.

“Peyton got up on stage and I don’t think she expected it at all,” said Quigley. “She was so excited, she was shaking. It was a proud moment — a very talented young lady. It’s a big deal to be a freshman and to win it.”

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‘A Christmas Carol’ now at the Cumming Playhouse CUMMING, Ga. – Those in need of a little Christmas spirit might can check out the newest production on the Cumming Playhouse stage.

Gypsy Theatre Company opened its version of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 28. While the tale is probably one of the most wellknown stories in modern Western culture, the local show’s director, who only goes by Mercury, said this version will have its own unique twists.

“I’ve adapted the book to the play, so there will be some different things,” said Mercury, “but we’ve kept all the most well-known and beloved parts.”

Set in Dickens’ 1850s London, the story traces the tale of one memorable Christmas Eve night in the life of Ebenezer Scrooge, an infamously coldhearted miser, who through three special visitors is transformed into a new man.

Since three spirits – the ghosts of Christmas Past, Pres-

ent and Future – play such an integral role in the story, Mercury said audiences can expect a few special effects as well as an intricate set with “some surprises.”

“We do have a few tricks up our sleeves that I think audiences will really enjoy,” he said. “We’ll be bringing our unique viewpoint and the production values which Gypsy is known for to the show.”

While this rendition of “A Christmas Carol” is not a “traditional musical,” Mercury said it will feature “many classic Christmas carols” sung by strong vocalists. In total, the cast includes more than 20 people, many of them children.

Tickets to “A Christmas Carol” are $25 each and can be purchased online at www. playhousecumming.com or by calling 770-781-9178. Show times are 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 3 p.m.

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Real estate agents tackle safety issues

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – For real estate agents, homes can pose a unique danger when they are empty.

That danger came to a head in September after a realtor in Arkansas was found dead in a home she was showing. The alleged murderer had posed as a client and met the agent at the home with the intent to kill, because the realtor was a woman who would be working alone.

This is a danger real estate agents face every day, said Rhonda Duffy, of Duffy Real Estate in Alpharetta.

“Agents need safety measures,” Duffy said.

“Every day, we are entering properties – vacant or occupied – with people we don’t know anything about.”

A 2011 report by the AGBeat on realtor safety in the nation showed that the vast majority of victims were women who were attacked by a single person. Most attacks came in the afternoon, and more than half involved a gun. In most of the incidents described, robbery was the common intent of crime.

Duffy said she wants agents and the industry at large to take safety more seriously and to know with whom they are working.

“You can’t test drive car without showing a license,” she said. “You can’t see apartments without showing a license. And here we are showing people’s homes without knowing who people are?”

Agents are encouraged to take safety precautions whenever they meet someone new, said Allison Kloster, of Harry Norman Realtors.

For starters, they should first meet in a public place or the agent’s office, where they can

Every day, we are entering properties – vacant or occupied – with people we don’t know anything about.”

RHONDA DUFFY Duffy Realty

record the buyer’s information.

Safety is paramount, Kloster said, and many agents are aware of it.

“A lot of times, a buyer will call up and want to meet at a location,” Kloster said. “The answer is always no. We must meet them first before we show them the property.”

This gives the agent some safety while also protecting the seller’s home.

A stranger gaining entry to a home can be dangerous.

For Duffy, she tells her agents when they meet someone at a home to pull up behind the client and use their smartphone to snap a picture of the license plate and the client’s driver’s license, and then send all the information to the brokerage. She calls it “Pledge Snap.”

“That way, we have a system protecting the seller and agent, and it sends a message to the community we are accountable,” Duffy said.

Cookie sale at Christ the King Lutheran Church CUMMING, Ga. — The annual Christ the King Lutheran Church Christmas cookie sale is set for Dec. 13 from 9 a.m. to noon.

A large variety of homemade cookies and other goodies will be sold by the pound.

There will also be some special cookie categories such as no nuts, sugar-free and egg/gluten-free.

Coffee, tea and samples

will be provided for cookie sale shoppers.

Cookies will be gift boxed with colorful ribbon at no additional cost.

Proceeds benefit programs and missions of the women of Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road.

If you have any questions, call June Wolsin at 770-8890908.

– Staff

Comcast: Continued from Page 4 City leaders are in the process of working with the Georgia Municipal Association to negotiate a new agreement with the Internet, phone and cable television provider, and want to hear from residents who reside in Cumming and Forsyth County about Comcast’s service, products, pricing and any other areas of concern.

If you go What: Annual Christmas Cookie Sale Where: Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road When: Dec. 13, 9 a.m. to noon More info: June Wolsin, 770-889-5328

As in November, representatives of Comcast are scheduled to be in attendance during the Dec. 16 hearing.

Besides speaking during the public hearing, residents are also invited to submit their written comments to Crystal Ledford, Cumming’s public information assistant, at cledford@cityofcumming.net.

Written comments can also be dropped off at Cumming City Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday or mailed to City of Cumming, Attn: Crystal Ledford, 100 Main St., Cumming, Ga. 30040.

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Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

FARMER-DIRECT:

Know who grows your coffee Roswell-based Thrive coffee growing quickly

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The “farmto-table” idea has taken off in recent years, with consumers wanting to know where their food actually comes from – is it from an organic garden?

Is it Fair Trade? Consumers can now add to that list their morning cup of coffee.

The coffee of Thrive Farmers coffee comes from farmers in Central America and helps those workers more than most coffee companies – it pays them a fair price.

The Georgia-based company has its North American offices in Roswell.

The company’s policy is to treat its farmers as partners, not as just a source in the supply chain. This allows the farmers get paid a share of each bag of coffee they produce.

They call it “farmer-direct.”

Each bag has the face of the actual farmers or their

families on it.

“You know who grows the coffee,” said Bart Newman, vice president of national accounts for Thrive Farmers.

It all began with Ken Landers, a retired Georgia lawyer who was living off his investments. He had bought a coffee farm in Costa Rica as a way to stay busy.

When the economy collapsed in 2008, Landers was forced to suddenly make his farm profitable.

First Landers wanted to know how a cup of coffee costs $3 or $4 a cup, but farmers only get pennies for their efforts.

He was told by other farmers, “This is just how coffee is.”

That was unacceptable to Landers and he decided to change it.

He met entrepreneur Michael Jones, who had founded several successful medical companies and wanted to do something more spiritually rewarding as well. Jones’ father-in-law happened to be a Jamaican coffee farmer.

The two decided to start a company where the farmers were not just suppliers but partners in the company.

Together, they found other

The world of coffee is stacked against the producers. To force change, there needs to be an outside, disruptive force. We are that disruptive force.”

BART NEWMAN Vice president, Thrive Farmers coffee farmers and eventually, Thrive Farmers was formed. Each farmer was a partner in the business, selling directly to the buyers – coffee shops and stores – and getting as much as 10 times more for their crop than through the traditional, commodities-market prices.

“The world of coffee is stacked against the producers,” Newman said. “To force change, there needs to be an outside, disruptive force. We are that disruptive force.”

The company, barely three years old, has made great strides quickly. They were accepted to sell their coffee in Earth Fare supermarkets early

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

Thrive Farmers coffee worker Amanda Lindley does a sample roast of some coffee at the company headquarters in Roswell. on. Now, the coffee found in each cup of Chick-fil-A coffee across the nation is from Thrive.

The farmers’ collective has grown to more than 1,000 farmers.

“Consumers want to be connected to the source,” said Christine Macrenaris, with Thrive Farmers. “Coffee farmers care about their coffee, and we are fanatical about creating the best cup of coffee in the world.”

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“When a company’s mission is to make other people’s lives better, you can’t go wrong,” she said.

For more on Thrive Farmers and their coffee, visit them online at www.thrivefarmers. com.

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14 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

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Sensitive Santa visit to help kids with special needs CUMMING, Ga. — Christmas isn’t always the most wonderful time of the year for children with sensory or other special needs, such as autism. In fact, a visit to sit on Santa’s lap can be downright scary for the children and frustrating for parents that simply want to give their child a good experience with such a time-honored tradition.

This year, the Forsyth County Public Library will offer a Sensitive Santa program in hopes of giving those special children and their families a more positive and memorable experience with Santa Claus.

The program will be held at the Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road, on Dec. 13 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“We understand how challenging it can be for a child with sensory or other special needs to wait in line, be overwhelmed with noises, sounds and smells and then rushed to sit on the lap of a person they don’t know very well,” said Stephanie Hampson, youth services supervisor at the Hampton Park Library. “Many of those families have given up on the possibility that their children might have a positive experience meeting with Santa.

The Sensitive Santa event is free and all ages are welcome to participate.

Parents are encouraged to bring their own cameras and may take as many photos as they like during their visit with Santa.

The library offers those families an alternative to long lines, bright lights and noisy malls.”

Parents of children with sensory or other special needs can sign their children up to visit Santa for a 10-minute session. This gives the child time to get familiar with Santa and warm up to the idea of sitting on his lap or talking to him, rather than being rushed through the visit.

“When Santa visits the library, he’ll be using his best library behavior,” said Hampson. “Santa’s workshop will have dimmed lights. He and his elves will move slowly, and speak gently. Instead of waiting in line, families are welcome to bring snacks and we will provide a space for crafts and drawing until it’s time to see Santa.”

The Sensitive Santa event is free and all ages are welcome to participate. Parents are encouraged to bring their own cameras and may take as many photos as they like during their visit with Santa.

Questions about the event, including reservations and requests for special accommodations, should be directed to the Hampton Park Library at 770-781-9840, ext. 6709.

In addition to this event, Forsyth County Public Library will also host “Tis the Season for Stories” at each branch.

This special storytime is a holiday tradition for the library and will include several Christmas stories, a puppet show and merry music.

For more information about these programs, please visit www.forsythpl.org.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 15

Religious Services Experience

the true meaning of Christmas

at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Christmas Music Concerts – Sunday, Dec. 14 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Longest Night Service – Sunday, Dec. 21

For those with a heavy heart during the holidays.

Christmas Eve Services – Thursday, Dec. 25

3:30 p.m. Children’s Service (designed for younger children) 180 Academy Street 5 and 7 p.m. Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols Alpharetta, GA 30009 (nursery provided) 770-751-0033 www.alpharettapres.com 11 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Celebrating the birth of Jesus.

The Live Nativity

& Christmas Fair

Johns Creek United Methodist Church • www.JohnsCreekUMC.org

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DEC. 13 & 14

The Live Nativity & Christmas Fair

6:00 | 6:30 | 7:00 | 7:30 p.m.

Watch the story of baby Jesus, pet the live animals, roast marshmallows & sip hot chocolate. Fair trade gifts for sale.

Dr. D.B. Shelnutt, Jr. Senior Pastor www.JohnsCreekUMC.org

Johns Creek United Methodist Church 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097

16 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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ATLANTA’S UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FORECAST Numbers for 2014-16 are forecasted rates

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – By his own admission, Rajeev Dhawan, the economic forecaster from Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business, is an optimist.

In his latest forecast for the state Dhawan sees a growing economy on nearly all fronts for the state. Especially pleasing is the growth in construction jobs.

The Atlanta area is equally poised for a modest degree of prosperity, said Dhawan.

After adding 22,500 jobs in the first six months of 2014, Dhawan said the Atlanta economy gained more momentum adding an additional 22,500 jobs in the third quarter alone.

However, wage growth still lags and is a concern for the region and the nation as a whole.

This lack of wage growth works against an expanding economy, he said.

Items people need to live on, they will buy.

“They will go out to eat, but they are not about to go out and buy a $10,000 coat,” he said. “Income growth is needed for that.”

The drop in the price of gasoline has not given spending a shot in the arm either.

“A lot of people talking about the oil prices going down will give a boost to spending,” he said. “We haven’t seen that in the data. It’s not there.”

Nevertheless, metro Atlanta has plenty to brag about.

• After consistently shedding jobs since the recession, construction jobs turned the corner in 2013, gaining 7,300 jobs. Another 5,300 new jobs are expected to be added this year, Dhawan said.

• Professional and business services were also improved.

Since 2010, the sector has gained an average of 15,500 jobs each year, and the pace is expected to gain momentum. The DHAWAN GSU Center estimates that by the end of the year, employment in the industry will rise by an annual 3.5 percent, resulting in 17,800 new positions. Firms in the sector are expected to expand payrolls by 4.7 percent in 2016, translating into another 20,700 jobs.

• The information and financial activities sector is expected to recoup all the jobs lost during the recession this year, while financial activities employment is likely to remain slightly below pre-recession levels.

Combined, the two sectors are expected to add 6,300 new jobs this year.

• Trade, transportation and utilities payrolls increased by 8,800 positions through September of 2014.

By the end of the year, employers are expected to add 11,400 traderelated jobs, another 6,000 in 2015 and 7,000 in 2016. Dhawan said he expects an annual growth rate of 2.3 percent, or 3,400 jobs, in transportation, with similar growth next year.

• Education and health care were two sectors lagging behind overall Atlanta area figures, with fewer than 100 jobs created this year. However, payrolls in hospitality gained 4,800 new jobs through September. Dhawan said he expects education and

2008 6.2

2009 9.7

2010 10.1

2011 9.8

2012 8.8

2013 7.9

2014 7.1

2015 6.3

2016 5.6

SOURCE: GSU ECONOMIC FORECASTING CENTER

health care to increase their share of jobs gains, adding close to 5,000 positions in 2015.

Dhawan spent much of his time dispelling myths about the economy that flood the daily newscasts.

“Do not, do not, do not look at the unemployment rate as an indicator of the health of the economy,” he said.

While the overall unemployment rate in Georgia rose slightly in the third quarter, Dhawan attributed the numbers to a flawed system of tracking vital economic statistics.

Georgia is doing better than the nation. The nation’s job growth is at 1.8 to 1.9 percent over last year. Georgia is at 2.1 percent.

“I never, ever put weight on the unemployment rate as a measure of looking at the health of the economy,” Dhawan said.

The unemployment rate nationally is going down. The rate in Georgia has been on the rise since April, with a slight downturn in September.

He said states that have a higher proportion of manufacturing have the highest rise in this unemployment rate.

South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina all showed slight jumps in unemployment from April through September, but Florida, with a low manufacturing economy, had a flat rate.

“Remember, your job numbers come from a different survey than the unemployment statistics,” he said.

Job numbers come from a survey called the Non-Farm Payroll Survey, but unemployment figures come from

another source called the Household Survey, where people are asked over the phone.

“And they don’t call your cellphone but your landline.” Dhawan said.

What happens, he said, is there are eight panels. Every month for four months, people on the first panel will be interviewed. Then, they are not questioned for another eight months before they are contacted again.

“What happens is that in the early part of the sample, your unemployment rate looks a little bit higher because everybody’s responding, and then they drop out, and it looks a little bit less,” he said.

The same survey is used for job creation. The Household Survey shows Georgia lost 52,000 jobs in the past five months.

“That’s a bona fide recession if you go by that number,” Dhawan said. “But the Non-Farm Survey says we have gained 43,400 jobs in that same time.”

Dhawan says a more accurate measure of the economy is in tax collections. Georgia tax collections have increased every year since 2010. This year, they’re up 5.2 percent over last year, and they’re anticipated to grow another 5 percent next year.

“The only method that never gets revised is the tax collections at the state level,” Dhawan said. “And we have seen that in good times, job growth is correlated with the high-tax growth, and in bad times, it’s the reverse. You can’t be having job losses with positive tax bills.”

BusinessPosts

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com

Roswell’s Good Friend Mortgage celebrates 10 years Business: Good Friend Mortgage Opened: 2004 Owner: Deborah Lee Switts What: Good Friend Mortgage is a mortgage consulting and financing firm celebrating 10 years in business. We built a business that gives back to my community.

As a resident of Roswell with over 15 years in the real estate industry, I’ve seen how a community becomes stronger, more vibrant and economically sound when its residents are committed to long-term growth and development.

Homeowners are invested in the well-being of their local communities.

Good Friend Mortgage has been dedi-

cated to helping our Georgia neighbors achieve their lifestyle goals through affordable real estate financing by offering a variety of loan types including conventional, FHA, VA, reverse, rural and construction loans.

It has provided significant income savings, which infused much-needed capital into our local economy and community, helping in the recovery we all benefit from.

Where: 1500 Abbey Court, Alpharetta Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call for weekend appointments.

Call: 678-762-0127 Web: www.goodfriendmortgage.biz

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 17

Makeover charity brings ‘sunshine’ to sick children Business: Sunshine on a Ranney Day Opened: November 2014 Owner: Holly Ranney and Peter Ranney What: Sunshine on a Ranney Day is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that creates dream room and home makeovers for children with long-term illness and tragic accidents. Sunshine on a Ranney Day has quickly become a leading children’s charity in Atlanta with expertise in resi-

dential ADA modifications, therapy rooms and unique children’s room design. Our hope is that each family who receives a makeover has a renewed sense of hope knowing their child has a fun and safe environment to live in. We don’t just make rooms, we make room for hope!

Where: 42-C Oak St., Roswell Hours: Appointments preferred Call: 770-990-2434 Web: www.sunshineonaranneyday.com

BusinessPost

Selecting the best sales strategy What sales strategies are you using to win new business? Are your strategies successful in beating your competition? Is your sales team equipped with a portfolio of strategies they can use? Using the right sales strategy can help improve your win rates and allow you to close more business. In order to select the best sales strategy, you have to assess the specific opportunity you are trying to win. This assessment will guide you to utilizing the best strategy for

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

each specific opportunity you are pursuing. Your assessment needs to take into account the relationships you have, the competition, the uniqueness

of your product or service and the price you will charge.

A direct approach is best when you have strong relationships, limited competition and a unique product or service.

If a potential customer needs what you have, has a strong relationship with you and not with your competitors, you’re pretty much in the driver’s seat to win their business.

Conversely, if your relationship with the customer is no better than your competitors and you are both offering something

similar, you need to change the buying criteria to reflect other factors of the decision-making process. Out-flanking your competitor will help you to win in these scenarios.

And finally, if you just want a “foot in the door” to establish your potential as a long-term product or service provider, going after just a “piece of the business” may be the best choice. Selecting the best sales strategy for each opportunity will increase the odds that you will win.

GOT NEWS! EMAIL YOUR NEWS

with photo(s) to

news@Appen MediaGroup.com

Become a member today for as low as $275/yr!

Nation’s #6 Fastest Growing City U.S. Census Bureau (2013)

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Job Seekers in Georgia NerdWallet (2013)

JOIN TODAY!

www.AlpharettaChamber.com

18 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

BusinessBriefs

DEBUTS »

WORKPLACE »

Halyard Health spins off from Kimberly-Clark

First Data earns perfect mark in workplace equality survey

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Halyard Health. a company with $1.7 billion in sales, has completed its spinoff from Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Halyard shares (HYH) now trade on the New York Stock Exchange.

Halyard Heath is a global medical technology company focused on preventing infection, eliminating pain and speeding recovery.

Halyard issued one share of common stock for every eight shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock held as of the close of business Oct. 23, the record date for the distribution.

The new company reported 2013 net sales of $1.7 billion across its surgical and infection prevention products and medical devices business. Halyard has 16,500 employees and markets products in more than 100 countries worldwide.

INVESTMENT »

Newell Rubbermaid expands share repurchase program SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – The board of directors of Newell Rubbermaid has approved an extension and expansion to the company’s ongoing share repurchase program.

The updated plan authorizes Newell Rubbermaid to repurchase up to $500 million of its outstanding shares through the end of 2017. This $500 million is in addition to the $37 million remaining to be repurchased under its previous $300 million share repurchase program authorized earlier this year.

“We’re very pleased with the board’s decision to approve the expansion of our existing stock repurchase program, as a demonstration of its ongoing confidence in the company’s growth game plan and long-term growth outlook,” said Michael Polk, president and chief executive officer of Newell Rubbermaid.

Under the program, the company’s common shares may be purchased through a combination of a 10b5-1 automatic trading plan and discretionary purchases on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.

BUSINESS COMPUTER PROBLEMS? “Carmichael manages our IT. I have never worked with a more client-centric business before – ever. They return calls fast.

They listen exceedingly well. They know what they are doing. They are honest, professional, and local. They are partners with Appen Newspapers / Appen Media Group in the truest sense of the word.”

– Ray Appen, Publisher Appen Media Group Appen Newspapers

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – First Data has received a perfect score on the 2015 Corporate Equality Index.

The Index is a national benchmarking survey on corporate policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender workplace equality, administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.

“We are proud to be designated as a best place to work for LGBT equality by achieving a perfect score on the 2015 CEI, a significant increase from our score last year,” said Cindy Armine-Klein, chief control officer at First Data.In achieving the perfect score, the company took a number of actions, including extending benefits coverage to domestic partners’ children, adding supplemental life insurance for domestic partners and providing unique medical coverage for transgendered individuals.

PEOPLE »

Allconnect names consultant as new chief executive officer SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – Allconnect has named Sam Howe as its new CEO. Howe, a corporate consultant specializing in business transformation, enhancing consumer experience and product innovation, replaces Mark Miller, who headed Allconnect for 10 years.

Miller will remain with the company during the transition.

HOWE Prior to his work as a consultant, Howe served as chief marketing officer at Time Warner Cable for six years. He has also held positions with Cox Communications and Turner Broadcasting. Howe said he intends to continue leading the company to make investments in technology, product development and people to maximize growth. Founded in 1998, Allconnect has offices in Atlanta; Houston, Texas; Lexington, Kentucky; and St. George, Utah.

Financial adviser receives Series 24 designation CUMMING, Ga. – Robin Toms Grier, founder and president of the independent financial advisory firm Wealth and Retirement Partners, has earned the General Securities Principals License.

Known within the securities industry as the “Series 24,” the designation is administered by the U.S. Financial Industry RegulaGRIER tory Authority. With 15 years of financial-advisory experience, Grier, a registered financial consultant, built her career largely serving individuals with comprehensive retirement planning and insurance coverage.

The General Securities Principals License qualifies registered individuals to supervise or manage branch activities, such as corporate securities, real estate investment trusts, variable contracts and venture capital and approve communications regarding municipal securities.

REAL ESTATE » Call today for your free IT assesment.

– Tyler Jones, Principal

678-224-8000 • www.CarmichaelConsulting.net

Providence Group launches Bellmoore Park website JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Providence Group has

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com launched a community website for its 600-home Bellmoore Park development in Johns Creek.

“Due to the size and anticipation of Bellmoore Park, we felt it necessary to build a community website that serves as a central online location for interested buyers to learn more about the home designs and lifestyle available at the Johns Creek community,” said Warren Jolly, president of The Providence Group of Georgia LLC. “Additionally, the website features an interactive site plan that will allow buyers to view home designs and available homes on specific home sites.”

Visitors can learn more about new home designs available in the Artisan, Carriage, Heritage and Vintage collection. Priced from the $400,000s to the $1 million. Visitors can also tour the interactive site plan that shows which collection will be built on which home site using a color coding system.

Pincheon joins Move Team as Realtor associate, agent JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Mitch Falkin, managing member of Move Team Real Estate LLC, a top producing residential real estate team at RE/MAX Prestige in North Fulton, announced Christy Pincheon has joined the staff as a Realtor associate and buyer’s agent.

Pincheon will work in the Old Alabama Road office where she PINCHEON will focus on helping buyers in the north metro suburban Atlanta market.

Pincheon is a board member of National Charity League Inc., and received a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in education from Fordham University.

Before joining Move Team Real Estate LLC, she was a sales associate at Keller Williams Realty in Alpharetta.

DATA MANAGEMENT »

Firm adds Ebix system to streamline services ATLANTA – Security Life Insurance Company of America, a leader in the ancillary benefits market, has successfully begun use of the EbixEnterprise Health Exchange and insurance administration solution.

EbixEnterprise is an on-demand insurance exchange service from Johns Creek-based Ebix, a leading international supplier of software and e-commerce services to the insurance, financial and health care industries.

The system allows Security Life to quickly deliver an integrated solution that facilitates the entire electronic sales process.

UNC Health Care renews contract with MedAssets ALPHARETTA, Ga. – MedAssets has announced that UNC Health Care, a not-for-profit health system based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has renewed its agreement with the company to build upon its long-standing relationship to drive down costs and optimize clinical, operational and financial performance.

Plans call for UNC Health Care to continue to use MedAssets Advisory Solutions, which combine best-in-class operational and clinical data with consulting expertise for margin improvement MedAssets offers guidance in strategic sourcing, clinical resource management, procure-to-pay solutions, as well as cost and operational analytics to help optimize cost management and maintain a defensible pricing strategy.

CALENDAR

EDITOR’S PICKS

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 19

Send

me your event...

ERICA O’NEAL

Calendar Editor erica@northfulton.com

Submit your event to northfulton.com or email with photo to calendar@northfulton.com.

For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.

EVENTS:

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

A classic holiday play hosted by Bulloch Hall in the Osage Terrace Room, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell.

Friday, Dec. 12 through Tuesday, Dec. 23. Showtimes are 3 p.m. matinee, 8 p.m. evening. Tickets are $15. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Visit bullochhall.org for more info.

SL’HAY RIDE

What: A hayride around the East Roswell Park with cookie decorating and hot chocolate Where: East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell When: Friday, Dec. 12 Hours: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Cost: $12 for Roswell residents, $18 for non-residents Online: visitroswellga.com

BLUE CHRISTMAS

A holiday concert presented by the Atlanta Wind Symphony at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell.

Tuesday, Dec. 16. Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Visit atlantawindsymphony. org for more info.

CANDY CANE HUNT

What: A treasure hunt for candy canes by the East Roswell Recreation Center Where: East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell When: Saturday, Dec. 13 Hours: 5:30-7 p.m.

Cost: $12 for residents, $18 for nonresidents Online: roswellgov.com Info: Pizza dinner will be provided.

Bring a flashlight and something to carry collected candy canes in.

Parents and children must register prior to the event.

MOVIE NIGHT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR KENYA

What: Need a break from “Frozen?”

Sonlight for Kenya is a Lambert High School club that’s hosting its fifth annual movie night featuring “Home Alone” When: Dec. 12 at 7 p.m Where: Lambert High School auditorium, 805 Nichols Road Cost: $5 at the door, all proceeds will fund relief projects in Ngaamba, Kenya

A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL CONCERT

A concert presented by the Roswell United Methodist Church and conducted by Michael O’Neal. 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. Friday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 14. Show begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are free. Visit rumc.com for more info.

HOLIDAY JAZZ CONCERT

What: An afternoon of Holiday swing and jazz by the Reflections band Where: Roswell Visitors Center, 617 Atlanta St., Roswell When: Sunday, Dec. 14 Hours: 1-2:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Online: visitroswellga.com Info: No reservations needed.

THEATER: ANNIE

What: A Christmas concert hosted by the Dunwoody United Methodist Church Where: Dunwoody United Methodist Church, 1548 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody When: Sunday, Dec. 14 Hours: 4-5 p.m.

Cost: Free Online: dunwoodyumc.org Info: The concert features the Chancel Choir and a guest orchestra.

RACES & BENEFITS:

THE MESSIAH CONCERT

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT AT

a.m. and race begins at 8 a.m.

Cost: Pre-registration is $25, race day registration is $30 Online: rungeorgia.com/ santasleigh5k.html

“A NEW JOY” CHRISTMAS CONCERT

MUSIC: What: Christ the King Lutheran Church hosts the Gwinnett Symphony Chorus and Orchestra’s performance of The Messiah.

Where: Christ the King Lutheran Church, 5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners When: Saturday, Dec. 13 Hours: Performance begins at 8 p.m.

Cost: Free Online: ctklutheran.org Info: Music director and conductor,

Visit live reindeer while making crafts, and meeting Santa Turtle at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

Sunday, Dec. 14. 1-4 p.m. $10 for adults, $6 for children, $7 for seniors 65+ and students 13-18 Visit chattnaturecenter.org for more info.

Rick Smith will be leading the performance.

TOPGOLF UGLY SWEATER PARTY

What: Topgolf’s Ugly Sweater holiday party with a best costume contest Where: Topgolf, 10900 Westside Pkwy., Alpharetta When: Saturday, Dec. 13 Hours: 9 p.m. to close Cost: Free?

Online: topgolf.com/us/alpharetta Info: $100 in Topgolf gameplay awarded to the ‘All Around Ugliest,’ ‘Most Festive’ and ‘Best Duo costume.

REINDEER DAY

SANTA’S SLEIGH 5K

What: A 5k race to show support for the Enduring Hearts Organization Where: Olde Rope Mill Park, 690 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock When: Saturday, Dec. 13 Hours: Registration opens at 6:30

What: A play production of Annie, presented by the Christian Youth Theater (CYT) Atlanta Where: The Milton Center, 86 School Dr., Alpharetta When: Thursday, Dec. 11 through Sunday, Dec. 14 Hours: Evening showtimes are 7 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday, and matinee showings are Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $8 to $15 Online: cytatlanta.com Info: CYT Atlanta will be collecting items on behalf of the Atlanta Humane Society.

20 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Sponsored Section

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com | Recycled paper

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014

Alpha Family Medicine Care is provided by Shyla Reddy, MD, and her medical team. Dr. Reddy has more than 15 years of primary care experience. She is board certified in Family Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. She completed Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology fellowship from Emory University.

Our goal is to establish an ongoing, personal patientphysician relationship focusing on integrated care.

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We strive to enable their autonomy and improve their quality of life, addressing the needs of the whole person.

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Seven fitness myths, debunked (NAPSI)—With the New Year rapidly approaching, there’s no shortage of advice on the best ways to achieve your resolutions. Yet, when it comes to fitness and weight loss goals, it can be difficult to tell fact from fiction.

Stay on the fast track to keeping your New Year’s resolutions. Here are Bowflex Fitness Advisor and author of “Beat the Gym,” Tom Holland’s top seven fitness myths exposed: Myth #1: You need to spend at least an hour in the gym to see results.

Research shows you can actually achieve better results doing 15 minutes of interval training three times a week than by jogging on a treadmill for an hour.

Not sure where to start?

Consider this: The new Bowflex Max Trainer® (www.bowflexmaxtrainer.com) burns up to 2½ times the calories as do other cardio exercise equipment in 14 minutes and engages the upper body 80 percent more than a traditional elliptical. Plus, it’s designed specifically for the home, so you can work out anytime.

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Myth #2: As long as you exercise, you can eat whatever you want.

Whether you want to maintain, gain or lose weight, you need to make sure your caloric intake matches your goals. To lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories than you burn.

For example, if you burn 500 calories during your workout and then eat two or more slices of pizza (topping 500 calories), you’ll end up gaining weight.

You can determine how much to eat by testing your metabolic rate, since your metabolic rate is the energy you use in order to be alive plus the energy needed for daily activities.

You can use this measurement to accurately identify how many calories your body needs.

Myth #3: Organic or gluten-free foods are best for weight loss.

There are many benefits of

eating organic or gluten-free foods. For example, they have more antioxidants, less pesticides and food additives. However, overeating is still overeating. Make sure to evaluate your overall caloric intake and expenditures to stay within the bounds of your goal.

Myth #4: Fitness shakes are just for people who want to bulk up.

Many people confuse fitness shakes with “mass gainers”—products used to aid in bulking up. Protein shakes, however, can actually be a great way to achieve the healthy diet necessary to reach fitness goals.

For instance, the new line of Bowflex Body™ (www.bowflexbody.com) fitness shakes activates the metabolism and helps build muscle, burn calories and boost energy, all while refueling the body.

Myth #5: Do cardio on an empty stomach to burn the most fat.

Many people believe if you work out on an empty stomach, your body will use its stored fat supply to fuel the exercise. However, research shows fat burn is consistent whether you eat before a workout or not.

If you’re looking for cardio motivation, the new Nautilus® 616 cardio series (www.nautilus. com) includes a treadmill, elliptical, upright bike and recumbent bike. Features include groundbreaking technology for better connectivity and customizable workouts with the innovative Nautilus® Trainer™ app.

Myth #6: Crunches are best for getting great abs.

No matter how many crunches you do, you won’t see six-pack abs until you lose the layers of fat covering your abdominal wall. The best way to lose fat is to stick to a strict diet and scorch major calories with interval training and compound weight-lifting exercises—which use more than one major muscle group.

Myth #7: I can’t reach my fitness goals because I can’t afford a trainer.

Personal trainers are a great resource to help motivate and take you to the next level. But if you can’t afford a personal trainer, don’t be discouraged. There are many great (free!) resources online you can use to aid your fitness regime, including the Bowflex Insider blog at www.bowflexinsider.com.

“Don’t let yourself be fooled by these common fitness myths,” advises Holland. “The tips above can help you reach your fitness New Year’s resolutions.”

Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

December 10, 2014 21

22 December 10, 2014

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald

FAQ – Bladeless cataract surgery What is a cataract and what is cataract surgery?

Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and today cataracts affect more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older. At some point in our life, we will all develop a cataract.

The natural lens of the eye yellows and becomes cloudy with age as a result of biological changes of the proteins inside the lens. The function of the human lens is to focus incoming light onto the back of the eye. As your lens ages,

light from the outside worlds becomes more and more distorted as it enters your eye.

Difficulty reading, needing more light to read, experiencing glare and haloes at night and, even poor sleep patterns can be explained by cataract formation.

The treatment for cataracts involves an almost painless, 10 minute surgery to remove the “clouded lens” or “cataract” and replace it with a man made intraocular lens implant. It is the most common surgical procedure in the US

and around the world and is considered to be an extremely successful and safe procedure with a success rate approaching 99.5%.

What is laser cataract surgery?

With traditional cataract surgery, all the steps of the surgery are customarily performed “manually” by the surgeon using handheld tools. Laser cataract surgerythe next evolution of cataract surgery with the Ziemer Z6 laser generally offers a greater amount of precision, predict-

Improve Your Vision

And Enjoy Those Special Moments This Holiday

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

Kiran Sajja, M.D. Oculoplastic Surgeon

Anjum Cheema, M.D. Glaucoma & Cataract Surgeon

Don’t Let Cataracts Hold You Back.

Milan Eye Center is excited to announce that we have been chosen to be the first practice in the United States to use the Ziemer Z6 Laser for bladeless laser cataract surgery.

2013 and 2014

6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 325 | Johns Creek 970 Sanders Rd, Suite 100 | Cumming 201 Kimberly Way, Suite 106 | Canton 1995 Mall of Georgia Blvd, Suite A | Buford

Learn more: www.MilanEyeCenter.com | Call for a consultation: 678-688-4575

ability and safety to these steps leading to potentially improve visual outcomes and more precise targets. With the Ziemer Z6 Laser System, your surgeon has the potential to offer you unmatched accuracy and a more predictable and customized cataract procedure.

Based on your medical history and pre-operative evaluation, you and your surgeon will discuss the options available for your desired visual result.

Together you can discuss a treatment plan which may include using the LDV Z6 to create the laser incisions in the cornea along with an advanced lens implant that may allow for improved near, intermediate or distance vision. This tailored treatment may reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.

How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery?

In traditional cataract surgery, incisions in the cornea are made using handheld instruments including blades to access the cataract. Your surgeon will then use a surgical device to manually create a circular opening in the lens capsule of the eye that holds the cataract. The Ziemer Z6 laser can be used to make the corneal incisions precise and the opening in the lens capsule as circular as possible, in the right location, and sized to fit the replacement lens.

Your surgeon can also use the laser to break up and soften the hard cataract. Softening the lens with the laser enables your surgeon to then remove the cataract more gently and with significantly less ultrasound energy than is used in traditional manual cataract surgery.

What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery?

• A highly customized treatment • A treatment with little or no discomfort • A potentially more precise and predictable treatment • By and large, a gentler and easier cataract removal • Generally, a more rapid visual recovery due to reduced inflammation • The opportunity to receive tailored treatment with advanced technology multifocal lenses, which may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery Am I a suitable candidate for laser cataract surgery?

Your surgeon and you will decide whether you are a suitable candidate based on your eye anatomy, type of cataract and type of lens implant that

you desire. Most patients are candidates for having some of the steps of cataract surgery performed with the Ziemer Z6 laser.

How long has the procedure been performed?

Thousands of cataract procedures have been successfully performed using femtosecond laser systems, and femtosecond lasers have been used in eye procedures for decades. The most familiar use of femtosecond laser technology is LASIK. Femtosecond lasers represent an advanced standard in precision laser cataract surgery and the Ziemer Z6 platform was FDA cleared in 2013.

What should I expect on the day of surgery?

Your day in surgery should be no different than a routine cataract case. The Ziemer Z6 laser is positioned next to the surgeon and is utilized seamlessly during the cataract surgery process. You will be given mild IV sedation that will likely keep you pleasantly unaware of the goings on in surgery. Not only is it potentially painless, there are no needles or stitches as part of the procedure.

What should I expect after surgery?

After surgery, you can generally expect your vision to be improved within 24 hours.

Generally, patients experience no pain after surgery.

Slight scratchiness of the eye is common and they prescribed eye drops will help with any of these symptoms. Many patients return to work or normal activities the next day and even drive themselves to their post-op day one appointment!

How long does the procedure take?

You can expect to be at our center for about 2 hours, and you will be in the procedure room for only 20-25 minutes.

Please call 678-688-4575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on how to schedule your Cataract evaluation at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.

Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

December 10, 2014 23

Tonsils... Liability or asset? Choosing wisely… Choosing Atlanta Heart Specialists

By BRYANT T. CONGER, M.D.

The tonsils and adenoids are the body’s first line of defense as part of the immune system. They sample bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose, but they sometimes beCONGER come infected and at times, they become more of a liability than an asset.

The two most common problems affecting the tonsils and adenoids are recurrent infections of the nose and throat and significant enlargement that causes nasal obstruction and/or breathing, swallowing, and sleep problems. Chronic tonsillitis and infections within the tonsils that produce foulsmelling white deposits can also affect the tonsils and adenoids, making them sore and swollen. Cancers of the tonsil require early diagnosis and aggressive treatment.

You should see your doctor when you or your child experiences the common symptoms of infected or enlarged tonsils or adenoids, including: • Swelling of the tonsils • A white or yellow coating on the tonsils • Sore throat, sometimes accompanied by ear pain.

• Uncomfortable or painful swallowing

The two most common problems affecting the tonsils and adenoids are recurrent infections of the nose and throat and significant enlargement that causes nasal obstruction and/or breathing, swallowing, and sleep problems.

• Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck • Fever • Bad breath Signs of adenoid and tonsil enlargement are: • Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose most of the time • Nose sounds “blocked” when the person speaks • Chronic runny nose • Recurrent ear infections • Snoring at night • Restlessness during sleep or pauses in breathing during sleep At North Fulton Ear, Nose & Throat, our physicians are wellequipped to handle all forms of tonsil and adenoid disease. Call (770) 3438675 for an appointment today.

Many options for choosing a cardiologist exist within Forsyth and North Atlanta. At Atlanta Heart Specialists (ahsmed.com) we believe we offer a unique approach to cardiovascular health and disease prevention. Although we work out of 5 hospitals our goal is to keep you out of these institutions. We believe that combining a holistic approach with evidence based therapy offers you the best opportunity to take control of your health and prevent heart attacks and strokes!

Waiting when you are worried is never good. We offer same day office visits from 9-5 and 24/7 physician access to our patients so that you can relax and be reassured. If you do end up in the emergency room know that one of our physicians is always available to you.

Knowledge is power and in todays multimedia world AHS offers multiple tools to get the information you need. At heartdrsingh.com articles on prevention, testing and treatment are available for easy reading and downloads. Social media sites and a monthly patient newsletter ensure that you stay on top on the latest advances in heart health.

With 7 offices and 12 board certified, award winning cardiologists, AHS can offer the full spectrum of cardiac care from pacemakers to stents , echos to ablations, stress tests to radial

(arm) caths. In those rare situations where outside expertise is needed, as one of the few remaining independent cardiology groups we can access the expertise you need regardless of which hospital system it exists within.

At the Cumming office, Dr Narendra Singh leads an internationally recognized clinical research unit that offers groundbreaking clinical trials.

His team has early access to some of the most promising therapies in cardiovascular medicine and its all available for free to eligible Forsyth patients.

So while you have choices … take the time to make the right one.

You heart will thank you! With open hearts…Your AHS physicians!

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24 December 10, 2014

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald

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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

December 10, 2014 25

When red and green make you blue Tools to minimize depression and stress this holiday season

By NIKEISHA WHATLEY, LPC Manager of Behavioral Health Services, Northside Hospital Christmas cards. Tension.

Gifts. Frustration. Shopping.

Disappointment. Families.

Parties. Sadness. Travel.

Tiredness. Ho, Ho, Ho… Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, again!

The holiday season is a time of joy for many people.

However, the 30 days from Thanksgiving to Christmas also can be a winding road of self-evaluation, loneliness, overindulgence, extra financial burdens and anxiety. Coupled with demands of the holidays, these worries can lead to greater holiday stress or severe depression, otherwise known as seasonal depression or “the holiday blues.”

Although these thoughts, feelings and responses may be unsettling, it is important to recognize them as part of being human. It’s also important to know there are steps to cope with the added stress and stay healthy and content.

Structure your time (social media, too).

Keep your life as normal as possible. Holidays mean more chores – from shopping to cleaning and cooking. Delegate among family members who is going to do what.

Try to do things ahead of time and don’t overbook yourself. People only show you what they want online. Don’t waste time on Facebook and Twitter, comparing your life to others’ as they appear. Everything that glitters isn’t gold.

Learn to say “No.” The holidays bring extra demands on your time. Saying no to some things may lessen stress. It doesn’t make you rude if you say it nicely. Protect your time and use it wisely to make fun-filled memories.

Set goals.

Step back and think about what is important to you, whether it’s time with your family or making a special holiday treat. Use those goals to guide you through the holidays

movies).

This will help ease tension and feelings of helplessness.

Go look at Christmas lights, decorate your home/office, volunteer to help others, read stories to your children.

Take part in unstructured spontaneous events.

like a compass. Don’t overspend; set a budget and stick to it.

Be flexible.

Expect change and choose humor over harm. Cars break down, traffic is bad, some people just don’t give good gifts (ever), people get sick and stores run out of the “musthave” toy. Remember the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Replenish yourself.

Taking care of yourself during a stressful holiday season is one of the best things you can do for yourself and those around you.

Eat healthy, avoid too much alcohol, try to get enough sleep and exercise regularly.

Gift yourself with downtime so that you’re rested and able to enjoy simple holiday pleasures.

Allow yourself to be distracted.

Take in the scenery and enjoy the holiday festivities (lights, decorations, music,

Spend time with supportive and caring people.

Surround yourself with those who bring out the best in you and who enjoy doing the things you do. Family togetherness is important during the holiday season, but sometimes friends are closer and healthier than family.

Balance your time with both.

Choose to create new memories for yourself this holiday season by being the best you that you know how to be.

Seek help.

Northside Hospital would like to wish you a happy, stress free, holiday season. If you begin to feel the holiday blues setting in, seek help from a trained professional and learn about constructive ways you can cope.

For more information, call 404-851-8960 or visit northside.com.

ADHD – not just in children anymore Adult ADHD is associated with multiple comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other personality disorders. Adult ADHD is a valid psychiatric disorder of adulthood distinct from these other conditions.

Adult attention deficit disorder differs from the childhood variant because the hyperactivity in adults may be replaced by other symptoms such as anxiety, impulsivity and inattentiveness. In fact, prior to 2002 there were no diagnostic guidelines, but there have been great advances since. Some of the symptoms that characterize Adult ADHD are:

ADHD is a relatively common psychiatric disorder among adults. The prevalence is thought to be 3.5%-5.3%, which accounts for more than 11 million cases in the United States alone. With increased public awareness, adult ADHD became a topic of great interest so clinicians should be able to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with this disorder.

Etiology is still uncertain. Genetics however is believed to play a prominent role, followed in importance by acquired injuries to the brain.

ADHD was widely thought to be strictly a disorder of childhood. Now there are numerous scientific papers and clinical trials that acknowledge the existence of an adult version of this disorder, which can be traced back to the younger years.

Before this time ADHD in adults was known as Minimal Brain Damage or Dysfunction (MBD).

1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school-work, work or other activities.

2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.

3. Often does not seem to listen when spoke to directly.

4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand directions) 5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (eg.

School assignments, pencils, keys) 7. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.

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8. Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Some children with ADHD continue to have it as adults. And many adults who have the disorder don’t know it. They may feel that it is impossible to get organized, keep a job, or remember and keep appointments. Daily tasks such as getting up in the morning, preparing to leave the house for work, arriving at work on time, and being productive on the job can be especially challenging for adults with ADHD. These adults may have a history of failure at school, problems at work, failed relationships and traffic accidents. Like teens, adults with ADHD may seem restless and may try to complete several tasks as once, most of them unsuccessfully. They also tend to prefer “quick fixes,” rather than taking the steps needed to achieve greater rewards.

Treatment is very rewarding. The first medications to be approved by the FDA belonged to a non-stimulant group of medications: Atomoxetine. The FDA later approved stimulants such as methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts. Group delivered cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended in some cases as a supportive treatment.

If you or someone you know may have Adult ADHD, call Johns Creek Family Medicine at 770-771-6591 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Zack Charkawi.

26 December 10, 2014

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald

Simple steps to keep kids healthy during cold and flu season (NAPSI)—Each year, cold and flu season strikes just as families are preparing to get together and celebrate the holidays. During these joyous times, stuffy noses, body aches and headaches are the last thing any child wants to experience.

Prevention is key to keeping fever and flu symptoms at bay for everyone in the family—especially children under 6 years old, who routinely experience six to eight colds per year.

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Soap is your best friend: Make sure your children regularly wash their hands. It is one of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of germs.

Drink plenty of liquids: Replenish your family’s bodies with plenty of water and electrolytes to flush out toxins.

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Get plenty of rest: A good night’s sleep, and the occasional nap, is a big help in

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In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s board-certified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road. We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands.

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• Caring, thorough, and individualized philosophy • Well trained warm and efficient staff • Accepting new patients and sick walk in • Office welcomes most insurances including Medicare

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6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.771.6591 www.johnscreekdermatology.com

COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 27 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Women find they enjoy a good cigar too Cigar shops sponsor ladies’ nights; show women finer points

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Another traditionally male bastion is being challenged by women who don’t believe in stereotypes.

This time, it’s the cigar shop, where men often meet to discuss the finer points of tobacco or watch a sports event while they enjoy their cigars.

The trend is to open these male-dominated emporiums to women smokers, and it is the cigar purveyors who are leading the way.

Michelle Enter is the area representative for A.J. Fernandez Cigars. She recently sponsored a ladies’ night at Cutters Cigars on Windward Parkway, where along with wine and cigars, she was offering pointers in cutting cigars and lighting them.

Enter has been talking to women’s groups about having cigar events and learning more about it.

Some women say they took it up because their spouses or boyfriends smoke cigars, and they were intrigued by them.

Enter said she has already

established women’s cigar clubs in Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tennessee. “We’re almost ready to get our website up,� she said. “In January, we will launch La Femme Cigar Society.�

Cutters has always been a women-friendly establishment and welcomes ladies there, said Lou Ann Steffens, a Cutters manager. “We’re trying to expose women to the pleasures of a good cigar. They can come in here and join other women in a pleasant atmosphere,� said Steffens.

A number of women were at the Cutters event and were enjoying their cigars.

Gena Landstrom said she has been smoking cigars “off and on� for about a year. “It’s a social thing. I’m usually here with my husband,� Landstrom said. “I came tonight because it was ladies’ night. I found more women smoke cigars than I thought.�

She said she doesn’t smoke cigars to be “one of the guys.� “But it’s something we can do with friends as couples. A lot of men like to have their

Enjoying their cigars, from left, are Linda Tolbert, Cameel Ross and Karmen Sims. wives come with them [to the cigar store] whether their wives smoke or not,� Landstrom said.

Karmen Sims, Cameel Ross and Linda Tolbert came to the ladies’ night also. They said they enjoy an evening together where they can smoke.

Sims said she began like many people do, by sneaking

 � �� ��

a cigar from her grandfather.

She doesn’t like cigarettes, she said. “I like going to a ladies’ night. It’s my getaway spot. It’s always homey and friendly,�

Sims said.

Tolbert said she started about five years ago. A male friend of hers – not a romantic

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

friend – smoked, and she decided she liked the aroma and began smoking them.

The men who are regulars at Cutters come to watch sports events or sit outside.

They said they did not mind the ladies’ presence. In fact, they seemed to enjoy their presence.

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COMMUNITY

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South Forsyth DECA raises awareness of Mentor Me CUMMING, Ga. — South Forsyth High School’s DECA chapter recently proposed a series of marketing and messaging recommendations to enhance awareness for Mentor Me in Forsyth County.

Mentor Me North Georgia is a local nonprofit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of children through mentoring programs.

The DECA students were asked to take one of their marketing projects and develop ideas to help Mentor Me increase its outreach to get their name out to more people and increase

awareness of the need for mentors and financial support.

Several groups of students presented a variety of plans.

“The students did a spectacular job of capturing the essence of what we do, creating ideas to help bring attention to our organization and suggesting activities that we can implement to help raise additional funds,” said Mentor Me Executive Director Sylvia Cardona. “I was very impressed with their research and how they presented the information. They were thorough, and their plans were clear and

concise.

“The caliber of creativity, professionalism and the attention to detail the DECA students demonstrated makes me appreciate what a valuable resource we have in our community for organizations like Mentor Me, who have great missions, but limited budgets.

We will study their proposals to determine which ideas to develop further,” Cardona said.

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges

SFHS DECA students Elizabeth Heard and Trent Schick present their awareness enhancement proposals for Mentor Me. around the globe. With 750 members, South Forsyth DECA is the largest DECA chapter in the world.

Mentor Me provides traditional one-on-one mentoring relationships between adult volunteers and children and young people.

Children between the ages of 6 and 17 who need and

want a mentor are matched with adults who can serve as role models.

There are also opportunities for teens to mentor elementary school students once a week for an hour during the school year.

For more information about Mentor Me, go to www.mentormenorthga.org.

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Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 29 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Dog of the Cat of the week: Dog of the week: Conrad Blacksocks week: Bullet CUMMING, Ga. – When Conrad came in he, had a broken back right leg. Since then, he had surgery and is healing. He will be back to his former glory very soon, which means he will be up for adoption.

He is a wonderful and goofy boy. He loves to be with you and loves to be outside. He is doing a good job with his leash manners too. He doesn’t get along with cats, but loves other dogs. He would love to have a family that would love him forever.

To meet Conrad, visit the Humane Society of Forsyth County, 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Ridings: Continued from Page 1 difference.

Deputy Angie Lively, a FCS school resource officer at Liberty Middle School (LMS), wanted to spread the word about a St. Baldrick’s Foundation event that funds child cancer research.

After Lively called fellow sheriff’s deputies, the community united. The event raised $15,000.

The community came together once again last week for Ridings, but for a much more somber occasion.

Ridings was a ninth-grader at West Forsyth High School, but in February, she attended LMS and made a huge impact on everyone there, including LMS Principal Connie Stovall.

“There were so many times that I knew that she couldn’t feel well, but she would never let on,” said Stovall.

“She kept a smile on her face. We would encourage her to let us know if she needed anything, but she would always say that she was fine. She never wanted to be treated differently. She was the most determined person I’ve ever known.”

Stovall said that it’s incredibly hard to put Sydney into words, but she does have memories that will last forever, including the St. Baldrick’s fundraiser.

“One memory was the football pep rally during Sydney’s seventh-grade year,” said Stovall. “During this pep rally, all of our football players and cheerleaders are introduced to the student body. When the announcer called

CUMMING, Ga. – Blacksocks was brought in by a volunteer about a year ago. He’s been one of the friendliest cats at the Humane Society of Forsyth County ever since. He’s a beautiful 3-year-old male with an exotic face and a gorgeous spotted coat.

Blacksocks is outgoing, affectionate and he’s wonderful with other cats and with kids. He’s a perfect addition to any happy home. We would love to see this kitty have a chance at a happy forever home.

You can meet Blacksocks at the Humane Society of Forsyth County, 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Sydney’s name, the students roared. I think they were as happy that Sydney was able to cheer as Sydney was.”

The outpouring of support didn’t stop at Liberty Middle.

The community gathered together Nov. 29 not only for Ridings’ funeral, but to celebrate her life.

“It was uplifting to see how many people were impacted by the life of such a young person,” said Stovall.

Family and friends weren’t the only ones in attendance.

Stovall said Ridings’ teachers from elementary, middle and high school, along with fellow dancers from the Cumming Dance Academy and members of local law enforcement, attended the memorial.

After the service was over, Stovall said the crowd had a special processional.

“As I pulled onto Hwy. 9, a fire truck was blocking the street,” said Stovall. “At first, I thought ‘how odd,’ but then I recognized the faces of the firemen standing by their rig as some of the many who joined us for the head-shaving event. At every intersection, there was a patrol car and again, familiar faces from our fundraising event.”

Stovall said that while Ridings was only 14 years old, she impacted many people.

“She touched so many and has left such a legacy,” said Stovall. “She will forever be one of my heroes.”

The Ridings family has asked that donations be made to the Sydney Strong account at Citizens Bank, P.O. Box 2820, Cumming, Ga. 30028.

CUMMING, Ga. – Hello! I’m Thomas F. Duffy, aka Bullet, and I’d like a home for the holidays. What do you say? I promise lots of smiles and snuggles. My original owner passed away and all I want is to be in a good loving home where I will be loved forever. I am great with other dogs and kids. I am very sweet and loving and will let you put me under a Christmas tree with a big bow. You will be glad you picked me — I promise.

To meet Bullet, visit the Humane Society of Forsyth County, 4440 Keith Bridge Road. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

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COMMUNITY

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Georgia Academy for Economic Development announces Forsyth County graduates CUMMING, Ga. — The Board of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development announced Nov. 20 the Forsyth County graduates from its 2014 region two multi-day training program.

Local graduates included Forsyth County Commission Chairman R. J. “Pete” Amos, Forsyth County District 2 Planning Commissioner Jayne Iglesias and David Vargas.

Class participants represented a number of professional and non-professional economic development fields, including elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators and social service providers from 13 counties in Region 2 in Georgia. The academy provided each of the graduates an opportunity to gain a unique understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional and state levels.

Created in 1993, the academy assembles a cross section of economic development professionals and resources to provide this training in all 12 service delivery regions in Georgia. Its Board of Directors of represents public and private economic development organizations and agencies from across Georgia. Since its organization, the academy has provided training for thousands of professional and nonprofessional economic developers around the state.

Georgia EMC and Georgia Power provide facilitators for the program, and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs provides staff support to the program.

“One of the goals for the multi-day regional academies is to encourage multi-county cooperation,” said Corinne Thornton, director of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development. “Many times,

Forsyth County graduates included Pete Amos, Jayne Iglesias and David Vargas, pictured with Rope Roberts of Georgia Power Company, Dennis Chastain of Georgia EMC and Pat Merritt of Georgia EMC. the participants discover the issues facing their community are the same as those facing other communities in their region, and can then combine limited resources to address the issue.”

The multi-day program, taught one day a month over a four-month period, includes training in the basics

of economic and community development, plus specialized segments on business recruitment and retention, tourism product development, downtown development, planning and other essentials for community success. In addition, the curriculum features specific leadership skills such as consensus building, ethics

in public service, collaborative leadership and other segments needed for effective community leadership in economic development. Local elected officials may receive certification training credits through the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Georgia Municipal Association for completion of this program.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 31

Making a difference in your local community Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014

Get the dirt on composting A farmer I was talking to recently voiced her opinion that people shouldn’t be burning their fall leaves, but should compost them instead. Composting is a critical component of creating a sustainable lifestyle and eliminating synthetic chemicals in our environment.

There is no better way to create a rich and healthy soil than by using compost, and you can start with your fall leaves.

I interviewed Amy Escalante who manages the composting process for the Alpharetta Community Gardens at Wills Park to learn more about how to compost and why it is so important.

Q & A with Amy Escalante Why should we compost?

Composting reduces landfill waste, by recycling decomposed organic matter into rich, nutrient-dense soil often referred to as “black gold.” Up to 30 percent of the material we send to landfills is organic and can likely be composted at home. It’s an easy way to give back to Mother Nature… literally!

Why is using compost better than using synthetic fertilizers?

Synthetic fertilizers are generally derived from by-products of the petroleum industry.

As far as your plants go, they can’t distinguish between an organic (compost) or synthetic fertilizer. The nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium) are processed the same way. Synthetic fertilizers provide plants with the nutrients they desire; however, plants need more to survive.

Compost provides plants with the desired nutrients, while at the same time, adding organic material and introducing beneficial microorganisms into the soil.

When synthetic fertilizers are used, the microbiology of the soil is interrupted, resulting in providing an environment for pathogens to thrive.

Sure, you have beautiful, blight-free tomatoes for a short period of time, but at what cost?

Why is composting fall leaves better than burning

PASCALE CHAMBERS Guest Columnist

them?

Composting is definitely a preferred method of getting rid of unwanted leaves. When you burn a pile of leaves, hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide and other carcinogens are released at ground level. Particulates found in the smoke can accumulate in the lungs, resulting in breathing difficulties, especially in children, those with asthma and other respiratory disorders. The alternative to burning your leaves is simple: compost them. It takes very little effort, while providing you with a usable end product.

Pound for pound, leaves contain twice as many minerals as manure.

What is the best way to get started?

The only thing you need to get started composting is a little bit of knowledge. First of all, it is a common misconception that composting requires a lot of space or a large backyard. I have successfully created quality compost in a 2-by-2 foot square area. The ideal location is to set up your compost area on grass or soil in a sunny (or partly sunny) area.

A large pile of leaves raked into a corner will certainly breakdown, but it will take a very long time. In order to create quality compost with those leaves in a timely manner, it is helpful to shred them first (using a lawnmower is the most efficient) and to add a source of nitrogen.

Here’s a quick example of compost mix. Start with a generous layer of dead leaves (or other “browns” like newspaper or dead grass clippings), then add a layer of nitrogenrich material (“greens” such as food scraps, fresh grass clippings, coffee grounds). You should aim for adding two to three times as much browns as greens. While it doesn’t need to be an actual layered system, it is always recommended to add

What are some dos and don’ts of composting?

My rule of thumb has always been that the compost bin is vegan, meaning no meat or other animal by-products.

The biggest exception would be egg shells; however, they must be rinsed well. Highly recommended material: food scraps, coffee, tea, manure (no dog or cat manure), grass clippings, garden waste, paper, leaves, sawdust (untreated), tissue paper, dead grass clippings.

Not recommended: meat, fish, eggs, dairy, oily foods, bones and diseased plants.

and downloadable PDF about composting. Go to: http:// extension.uga.edu/publications. In the search box, type “compost.”

Creating a sustainable lifestyle and reducing our carbon footprint is becoming more and more imperative; as our population continues to grow, so does the burden on the planet. If you think of your home in terms of things coming in and out, sustainability is about reducing these inputs and outputs.

Close the loop as much as possible. Grow some of your own food (less coming in), and compost your leaves and waste (less going out). You’d be surprised the impact of doing just these two things. Start small, a few tomato plants or herbs in pots, a small pile of leaves somewhere in your yard.

Eventually over time, this may grow, but every little bit makes a difference. Fall leaves provide a great opportunity to get started.

Escalante and a team of volunteers at the Alpharetta Community Gardens not only provide compost for use in the gardeners’ beds but also help to teach new gardeners and others in the community about composting.

Another great resource is the UGA Extension Office.

They have a great publication

Pascale Chambers is an organic gardener and supporter of local and naturally grown foods. An advocate for living a sustainable lifestyle, she inspires others to learn and take action to improve their health and the health of our planet.

Comments or questions can be sent to pascale@appenmediagroup.com.

Composting reduces landfill waste, by recycling decomposed organic matter into rich, nutrient-dense soil often referred to as “black gold.” browns after greens to prevent odors and unwanted pests.

Water and air are also recommended if you want a timely turn around on usable soil, but aren’t completely necessary. Turning a compost bin and adding water periodically (think moist material, not wet) will definitely speed things up as the compost is full of microorganisms that thrive on water and air. The more microorganisms you have, the faster they will decompose the material.

Is fancy equipment required to compost?

Not at all. A compost bin is preferred, as it will help keep your material confined.

However, you can easily make a bin using some wood scraps or fencing. Other tools that are recommended: a shovel, a fork and a wheelbarrow to haul your home grown soil to the garden. That’s it! You can spend a lot of money on composting systems, but they are not at all necessary.

32 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

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New UNG partnership provides unique Shakespeare experience DAHLONEGA, Ga. – Shakespeare wrote, “All the world’s a stage,” and now a new partnership gives University of North Georgia students and faculty the opportunity to work with two Shakespearean theater companies and possibly become players on a periodinspired stage in Atlanta.

UNG established partnerships with the Atlanta Shakespeare Co., which was the first American company to perform on the stage of the famous Globe Theatre in London, England, and the Resurgens Theatre Co. The agreement was signed Friday, Oct. 10.

Both companies use an approach called “original practice,” in which a play is presented in the manner and language it was originally written, whether penned by Shakespeare, his contemporaries or a modern playwright.

That style, and the inclusion of works from other 16thand 17th-century playwrights, makes the partnership a unique opportunity, said Dr.

Brent Griffin, an assistant professor of English at UNG who will be facilitating the partnership.

“The Globe is just now branching off into their new, indoor Jacobean theater and starting to tackle some of these works, but we’re keeping pace with them,” Griffin said. “These contemporaries of Shakespeare – Marlowe, Middleton, Fletcher, Johnson – we read them in our English classes, but the students never have an opportunity to experience them live on stage. We’re going to give them that opportunity.”

Griffin, who holds a doctorate in Renaissance drama and performance studies, is a past member of the research staff at the Globe Theatre. Griffin is also president and artistic director of Resurgens Theatre Co. Laura Cole, director of education and training and a professional actor with the Atlanta Shakespeare Co., said she welcomes the opportunity to share the entire theater experience with students.

For us, Shakespeare education is at the center of our mission, along with our professional work on the main stage.”

JEFFREY WATKINS President and artistic director of the Atlanta Shakespeare

“This is a partnership with a working theater company that produces year-round … so they’re not only looking at original practices in terms of performances, but business model and training are all rooted in a Shakespeare’s-owncompany aesthetic,” she said.

The agreement also estab-

lishes an international conference on English Renaissance verse drama and provides for discounted tickets for UNG faculty, staff and students to Atlanta Shakespeare and Resurgens productions. Both companies stage productions at the New American Shakespeare Tavern, which originally opened in 1990 on Peachtree Street in Atlanta and was renovated in 1999 and 2006 to reflect the atmosphere of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

The partnership gives UNG students priority consideration for internships and practicums with both companies.

Faculty members also will be able to link productions to UNG course offerings, said Dr. Joyce Stavick, head of UNG’s English department.

She referenced “Macbeth,” currently being directed locally

by English professor Brian Corrigan and taught in multiple courses.

“Now, with the Atlanta Shakespeare Co., we’re going to have so many more opportunities for that,” she said. “For

our students who are good students of text, interpretation and critical thinking, I think it’s very important to see a play come alive, whether they participate or not.”

Anita Turlington, associate department head, said the partnership will give graduates from UNG’s English program critical knowledge that will put them at an advantage whether they go into teaching or pursue graduate studies.

Jeffrey Watkins, president and artistic director of the Atlanta Shakespeare, said he’s excited about the partnership, as the company has provided learning opportunities for pre-kindergarten students through college graduates, but wasn’t working with current college students.

“For us, Shakespeare education is at the center of our mission, along with our professional work on the main stage,” he said. “We’ve been looking to link with a university for some time now and we’re just very grateful that the University of North Georgia stepped forward.”

Forsyth Parks and Rec offering new fitness program in 2015 FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Residents can start the new year off by participating in Forsyth County Parks and Recreation’s Get Fit in ‘15 fitness challenge. This new program provides participants ages 18 and older with 15 at-home 15-minute workouts, weekly challenges, weekly educational articles and a one-month FitPlus pass providing access to all fitness classes on the pass class schedule, as well as access to the cardio/weight rooms at the county’s three recreation centers.

The registration fee for Get Fit in ‘15 is

$20.15. Registration begins Dec. 15 and will continue until the program begins Jan. 15, 2015. Registrations will be taken Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the county’s three recreation centers located at Fowler Park, Central Park and Old Atlanta Park. Registrations will also be accepted beginning Dec. 15 via fax, mail and online at www. forsythco.com/parks.

For more information, call Forsyth County Parks and Recreation at 770-781-2215 or visit www.forsythco.com/parks.

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A young dancer’s dream come true Two Alpharetta girls to dance in Atlanta Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’

By KATIE VANBRACKLE katie@northsidewoman.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – This year, Atlanta Ballet will raise the curtain at the Fox Theatre on its 55th production of “Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker,” and among the cast of more than 200 students that dance alongside the 23-member professional company will be two residents from Alpharetta.

Simone Harris, age 10 and a student at River Trail Middle School, will return for her third year, but in a new role. After dancing the role of “snow fairy” for the past two seasons, she will now get to experience what it’s like to be a “party child.”

Eleven-year-old Sophia Egolf, a student at Johns Creek’s Autrey Mill Middle School, will make her Atlanta Ballet debut this year, also as a “party child.” She joined Atlanta Ballet’s enrollment division this fall after training for seven years at Perimeter Ballet, where she performed in such productions as “Sleeping Beauty,” “Coppelia” and “Cinderella.”

Sophia, who has been dancing since the age of 4, has had stage experience, but nothing to compare to being on stage at the Fabulous Fox in Atlanta.

“I’m so excited!” said Sophia. “I’ve been there once before and it’s so beautiful and all of the dancers are so amazing. I can’t wait to dance at the Fox.” Sophia’s father drives her

PHOTO BY KIM KENNEY

Student dancers in this year’s “Nutcracker” include Simone Harris, third from left in top row, and Sophia Egolf, second from the left in bottom row. to Atlanta once a week for “Nutcracker” rehearsals in addition to her regular ballet classes three times per week.

For her, dancing is more than just a hobby. She takes it as seriously as she would a profession, and hopes to be dancing for as long as she can.

In their roles as party children, Simone and Sophia will step into the beautiful living room of the Petrov household in St. Petersburg, Russia, where a Christmas party is in full swing and Drosselmeyer, a mysterious toymaker, presents gifts to all the children, including a magical nutcracker doll for the Petrov’s young daughter, Marya.

Set in the elaborate Moorish décor of the historic Fox Theatre, this unique production takes 20 pounds of snow, eight tons of scenery, lighting and props and a 38-foot-tall Christmas tree to make the magic of Marya’s unbelievable story come to life.

Every year, Atlanta Ballet’s

Marya dances with the Sugar Plum Fairy.

artistic director John McFall adds a special touch to the production in an effort to keep it fresh and vibrant.

“For five decades now, Atlanta Ballet has been presenting ‘Nutcracker,’ and we’ve become a holiday tradition for many families in Atlanta,” said McFall. “It’s an honor, but also a great responsibility. Each year, we want to make sure we preserve the tradition, but also keep the magic and mystery alive. We are thoughtful about each change we make and confident that it will ultimately make for a more enchanting experience.”

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to the Fox Theatre Dec. 11 through Dec. 28 with the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra and the Georgia Youth Choir live for all 20 performances.

Tickets start as low as $20 and are available by phone at 855-ATL-TIXX, in person at the Fox Theatre Box Office and the Atlanta Ballet Box Office or online at www.atlantaballet.com.

Sophia Egolf of Johns Creek will make her “Nutcracker” debut this year.

Drosselmeyer with his dancing dolls.

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‘Second mile service’ at Chick-fil-A turns transactions into relationships

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com JOHN CREEK, Ga. – Service with a smile can set you and your business apart from the competition.

Such was the advice from Dan Cathy, president of local mega-food chain Chick-fil-A. He spoke to the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Dec. 3 at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek.

Cathy calls his brand of service, “second mile service.”

“If someone asks you to go with them for a mile, go two instead,” Cathy said, referring to the Biblical verse Matthew 5:41.

The “first mile” is serving the customer quality goods.

Cathy said that is the bare minimum expectation. Everything beyond that – the “second mile” – leaves a lasting impression on the customer.

“Then a transaction turns into a relationship,” he said. “If you don’t go that extra mile, all you have is a transaction. To build brand loyalty, you need to go that extra mile.”

Working this mindset into the company culture is part of Cathy’s business plan. Every employee is asked to live and breathe the concept of “second mile service” This starts with saying “my pleasure” when told “thank you” from a customer. Because serving the customer should be a pleasure.

He called this service a “sustainable competitive advantage.”

Selling cheaper goods or giving discounts is not sustainable for a business, and customers realize this. But consistently offering good customer service will build that brand loyalty at no cost.

“We have a greater hun-

Chick-fil-A president Dan Cathy outlined his company’s “second mile service” to members of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Dec. 3.

Shelter: Continued from Page 1 animals from Dr. Orr’s shelter to our shelter,” said Merritt.

“There was more exposure to transmitted diseases while carrying several animals in a van together and the stress of moving them to a new habitat and different people. These things created more sickness, and while our vet treated the animals, we could not recover them all.”

Merritt said the committee also discussed the fact that because the shelter takes all animals that the public presents to them, they have multiple cases of the public using the shelter – and not their own veterinarian – to euthanize very sick and very aggressive animals.

The number of animals getting rescued and the start of the Forsyth County Animal Shelter’s Facebook page could also contribute to the lower kill rate.

At the Dec. 3 committee meeting, an update was given about the new Facebook page.

“The animal shelter’s Facebook page was launched recently,” said Jodi Gardner, director of

communications for Forsyth County, “with the main focus of this page being to communicate with citizens, promote adoption of animals and highlight activities of the shelter.”

Merritt said the page has been helpful.

“We are using and updating the Facebook page almost every day and have received a lot of good comments,” said Merritt. “We expect this allows us to reach more people that may become potential adopters of our animals.”

The page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ ForsythCountyAnimalShelter.

The shelter committee also voted on a variety of topics, including policies for classified animals, shelter volunteers and the sanitation of outdoor areas.

The committee approved the animal intake policy, but added the requirement that all animals surrendered must enter through the intake entrance only.

The committee also voted to approve the infectious disease control policy with the following changes: addition of ringworm and sarcoptic mange and proper reporting as required by law.

October and November 2014 statistics ger for a generous helping of honesty, respect and dignity,” Cathy said. “We are starved for it.”

The results are a successful company despite being closed on Sundays and Chick-fil-A calendars that sell more than the Sports Illustrated swimsuit calendar.

As president of one of the nation’s largest family-owned businesses, Cathy represents the next generation of leadership for the Atlanta-based quick-service chicken restaurant chain founded by his father, the late S. Truett Cathy.

Eager to incorporate his own

skills and talents into the business, Dan Cathy has taken an unconventional yet personally and professionally rewarding approach to Chick-fil-A leadership.

He said he has personally challenged himself with upholding Chick-fil-A’s efforts to provide genuine, heartfelt hospitality and ensuring that customers chain-wide have an exceptional dining experience when visiting a Chick-fil-A restaurant.

For more on the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, visit them online at www.gnfcc.com.

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Local business and nonprofits partner in candy buy-back program FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Jacqueline M. Malone of Malone Orthodontics, 5755 North Point Parkway in Alpharetta, wanted to give back to local nonprofits this year through a candy buy-back program sponsored by the American Association of Orthodontics.

They partnered with two nonprofits, Friends of Tony and Reaping Nature, by pledging to donate $1 per pound collected to their organizations.

The program was opened to Forsyth County Schools and added a prize for the school that collected the most candy.

Vickery Creek Elementary collected 119 pounds and received a $30 gift card to Pike Nurseries and a $50 gift certificate to the Cottage Garden Center for being the Forsyth County School that collected the most candy.

The candy was then given to the Sawnee Woman’s Club to pack Treat the Troops boxes at the VFW located on Dahlonega Highway on Nov. 20. Sawnee Woman’s Club members also baked several dozen cookies to pack in the boxes, collected toiletries and organized

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Valdosta State University VALDOSTA, Ga. – Joely Caroline Henriquez, a 2013 graduate of Alpharetta High School, has been inducted into the Sigma Alpha Lambda National Honor Society at Valdosta State University. A sophomore with a 3.6 GPA majoring in speech communication with an emphasis in public relations, Henriquez is an active member of VSU’s Phi Mu Kappa Beta chapter.

In addition, local students recently graduated and/or earned Dean’s List status from Valdosta State following the spring 2014 term.

Graduates: Terrae Alexander of Suwanee, Mariela Andersen of Alpharetta, Kristen Bates of Cumming, Paige Boccia of Alpharetta, Hannah Bodie of Cumming, Shayla Brawner of Cumming, Makeda Bryce of Alpharetta, Alexis Carter of Alpharetta, Carl Caballes of Cumming, Bradley Covert of Alpharetta, Stephanie Crook of Alpharetta, Jacob Edwards of Roswell, Jonathan Frost of Duluth, Nikole Fuente of Alpharetta, Ashlie Gilbert of Alpharetta and Dana Griffith of Duluth.

Kelly Hessler of Alpharetta, Melissa Insardi of Alpharetta, Derrick Iverson of Milton, Ayannah John of Roswell, Ericson Joubert of Suwanee, Thomas Keller of Cumming, Elizabeth Knutson

handwritten notes from children and club members for the packing.

“When you have so much of a good thing, it always makes you feel even better to share it,” said Malone.

“Our troops sacrifice so much for us, and letting them know how much they are appreciated – with even the smallest gestures, just seems right. My team and I are honored to have been a part of this great effort.”

A grand total of 295 pounds of candy was collected in two weeks following Halloween.

“It was a rewarding experience to be involved with this program,” said Denise L. Carleton, executive director and president of Reaping Nature Educational Outreach Foundation Inc. “Dr. Malone’s single idea benefitted four organizations’ efforts and hundreds of our military men and women serving our country overseas this holiday season. That’s something remarkable.”

To learn more about this program, visit http://www.reapingnature.org/ Candy-Give-Back.html.

—Kathleen Sturgeon

of Milton, Baily Korb of Johns Creek, James Lord of Roswell, Ashley McKenna of Cumming, Colleen McGinn of Alpharetta, Natalie McPherson of Cumming and Brian Miller of Cumming.

Chris O’Connor of Cumming, Rebecca Perkins of Milton, Coleman Rankin of Roswell, Ainsley Robinson of Johns Creek, Rachel Santangelo of Milton, Louie Schroeder of Alpharetta, Sierra Schultz of Alpharetta, Cody Smith of Alpharetta, Melissa Sams of Suwanee, Christopher Spooner of Roswell, Jessica Tuggle of Alpharetta and Kaitlyn Wild of Suwanee.

Dean’s List: Maegan Abkemeier of Cumming, Shabana Ahmed of Alpharetta, Natalie Ajamian of Roswell, Caroline Baum of Roswell, Lucas Bell of Johns Creek, Isaac Berrios of Alpharetta, Austin Bohannon of Roswell, Brennan Byrd of Cumming, Jason Champ of Cumming, Stewart Cockerham of Alpharetta, Stephanie Crawford of Alpharetta, Matthew Deese of Roswell, Madison DiMauro of Alpharetta and Elizabeth Eaton of Alpharetta.

Alison Fay of Cumming, Maci Fletcher of Cumming, Alena Franks of Cumming, Nikole Fuente of Alpharetta, Zachary Gainey of Cumming, Grant Gardner of Duluth, Ashlie Gilbert of Alpharetta, Hannah Gorman of Duluth, Michael Habib of Roswell, Anna Hardin of Alpharetta, Allyson Hayenga of Alpharetta, Joely Henriquez of Alpharetta, Daniella Hermoza of Roswell and Melanie Jackson of Alpharetta.

Andrew Jeschke of Alpharetta, Naomi Johnston

Vickery Creek Elementary Assistant Principal Derrick Hershey, Lexi Carter and Assistant Principal Sandy Wells hold up the gift cards they won for collecting the most candy.

of Cumming, Charles Keeling of Alpharetta, Baily Korb of Johns Creek, Emily Li of Duluth, Natalie McPherson of Cumming, Cody Mixon of Cumming, Dillon Moore of Cumming, Victoria Papadelis of Duluth, Patricia Price of Cumming, Emily Raymond of Alpharetta and Cody Smith of Alpharetta.

Erica Smitherman of Duluth, Margaret Stauffer of Roswell, Shelby Varchmin of Cumming, Taylor Watts of Alpharetta, Jamie West of Alpharetta, Christopher Whelan of Cumming, James Whelan of Cumming, Courtney Whitenack of Duluth and Kyle Wilkerson of Duluth.

Northern Illinois University DEKALB, Ill. – Richard Mitacek of Johns Creek has graduated from the University of Northern Illinois. Mitacek earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Business.

Clarkson University POTSDAM, N.Y. – Amoge Okolie of Suwanee is attending Clarkson University as an incoming freshman for the fall 2014 semester. Okolie will be majoring in chemical engineering.

Brenau University GAINESVILLE, Ga. – Brenau University student-athlete Sydney Danielle Koon of Johns Creek was named the NAIA Volleyball National Player of the Week. Koon was selected for her performances the week of Oct. 27 through Nov. 2. She helped guide Brenau to wins against Bethel and Martin

Methodist in the Southern States Athletic Conference.

Also at Brenau, local students participated in the Gainesville Theatre Alliance WonderQuest production of “Sleeping Beauty” Sept. 26 through Oct. 4. Among the local participants were Katie Keel of Johns Creek, Rebecca Martell of Cumming, Meredith Martin of Cumming, Amanda Willett of Cumming, Caitlin Cavanaugh of Suwanee and Sydney Rohrbaugh of Suwanee. All are majoring in theater.

St. Scholastica College DULUTH, Minn. – Lasaunia Johnson of Alpharetta graduated from the College of St. Scholastica with a master’s degree in health information management.

Ga. Southwestern State University AMERICUS, Ga. – The following local students made the spring 2014 Dean’s List at Georgia Southwestern State: Brennan Bauschka of Alpharetta, Matthew Dean of Cumming, Lindsey Fetner of Duluth and Cindy Ring of Suwanee. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or better and take a minimum 12 credit hours.

Wofford College.

Reinhardt University WALESKA, Ga. – The following local students graduated from Reinhardt University following the 2014 spring semester: Alex Kaplan of Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in biology; Shane Turner of Alpharetta, master’s degree in business administration; Andrea Wilson of Duluth, bachelor’s degree in business administration/ marketing; Jeremy Burns of Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in business administration/marketing; and Laura Rusinyak of Suwanee, master’s degree in teaching in early childhood education.

Pratt Institute BROOKLYN, N.Y. – Andrew Kim of Johns Creek has begun studies at New York’s Pratt Institute. Kim is one of 835 students selected from more than 7,300 applicants.

Auburn University AUBURN, Ala. – Zachary Gunnz of Alpharetta was awarded the National Collegiate Scholar Award as a freshman at Auburn University because of his grade point average. After graduating from Alpharetta High School with honors, he was accepted into Auburn’s chemical engineering program.

Wofford College

Wheaton College

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Kevin Patrick Hady of Johns Creek and Logan Mackenzie Morris of Suwanee both made the spring 2014 Dean’s List at

WHEATON, Ill. – April Sylvester of Duluth and Elizabeth Schriver of Alpharetta both made the spring 2014 Dean’s List at Wheaton College.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 10, 2014 | 37

DEATH NOTICES Darrell Bacon, 69, of Cleveland, passed away December 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Louise Lona Bennett, 85, of Cumming, passed away December 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Hugh Howell Brannon, 77, of Cumming, passed away November 28, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Gloria Brantley, 87, of Alpharetta, passed away November 20, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Dolores Brunette, 67, of Cumming, passed away November 25, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Eva Ernestine Cline, 86, of Dunwoody, passed away November 4, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Brenda C. Cochran, 70, of Suwanee, passed away December 3, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

James Chinigo, 70, of Marietta, passed away November 3, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Ronald Wayne Cowart, 63, of Johns Creek, passed away November 20, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Guy E. Davis, Jr., 72, of Sandy Springs, passed away December 1, 2014.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Michael DiGeronimo, 72, of Dunwoody, passed away November 9, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

William Dishman, 87, of Clarkston, passed away November 7, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Howard Holley, 61, of Lawrenceville, passed away November 2, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Miguel Dimayuga, 7, of Johns Creek, passed away November 13, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Ross Howe, 67, of Cumming, passed away November 20, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Donald Dorner, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away November 1, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

William Huffmaster, 76, of Sandy Springs, passed away October 30, 2014. Arrangements

by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Paul Estevez, 61, of Johns Creek, passed away November 20, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Thomas Steven Fisher, 61, of Roswell, passed away November 9, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Rita Fiumara, 81, of Alpharetta, passed away October 30, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Carroll Austin Floyd, 89, of Gainesville, passed away November 27, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Lillian Cora Morgan Henderson, 90, of Canton, passed away November 25, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Lisa Henderson, 53, of Gainesville, passed away November 4, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

JoAnn Hill, 90, of Cumming, passed away November 13, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Patsy Ann Jones, 76, of Roswell, passed away November 22, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Helen Kirby, 75, of Johns Creek, passed away November 15, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Beverly Jo Kirtley, 62, of Atlanta, passed away November 28, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Jean Koerner, 89, of Cumming, passed away November 13, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Jean C. Liao, 102, of Alpharetta, passed away November 8, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Patti Arnold Long, 78, of Roswell, passed away November 14, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Susan Yapp Marshall, 42, of Alpharetta, passed away November 24, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Sandra Matthews, 67, of Milton, passed away November 17, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

James Merrifield, 90, of Alto, passed away October 30, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Angela Denise Earley Newton, 59, of Jasper, passed away November 24, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Marie Praven, 91, of Alpharetta, passed away November 19, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

William Douglas Pugh, 88, of Commerce, passed away November 24, 2014.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

James Radford Sr., 90, of Norcross, passed away November 18, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Daniel Rado, 92, of Gainesville, passed away November 12, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Sydney Makayla Ridings, 14, of Cumming, passed away November 28, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Michael Ripma, 25, of Buckhead, passed away November 15, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Janice Mosher Rippcondi, 79, of Cumming, passed away November 25, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Oneil Robertson Jr., 65, of Alpharetta, passed away November 5, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Francesca Pennone Ruhl, 67, of Marietta, passed away November 16, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Christopher David Smith, 39, of Atlanta, passed away November 21, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

William Cody Smith, 24, of Cumming, passed away November 29, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Lester Sobelson, 93, of Roswell, passed away November 21, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Vernice I. Sweatman, 91, of Carnesville, passed away November 24, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Marcus Dean Townsend, 65, of Cumming, passed away November 30, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Michael Trump, Jr., 26, of Atlanta, passed away November 29, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Thomas Valentine, 79, of Roswell, passed away November 17, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Kathleen Mynatt Ward, 88, of Cumming, passed away November 29, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Brandon Weaver, 37, of Dawsonville, passed away.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Rebecca Jaynes Weber, 61, of Cumming, passed away on November 10, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Peggy Weldy, 82, of Cumming, passed away November 26, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Ann Witte, 81, of Decatur, passed away November 3, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

BACKWATER LANDING – LAKE KEOWEE, SC Waterfront Cottages, Gated – Prices from $140’s to $395,000 This showcase model now available fully furnished for $395,000 Lodge, fitness center, pool, beach, boardwalk, boat slips and more.

888-663-1133 www.backwaterlanding.com Office Hours: Mon-Fri 1-5, Sat & Sun 11-5 and always available by appointment

Country Ranch

HANDYMAN REMODELING

ALL REPAIRS & REMODELS

678-455-2434 www.HandyHero.net 30 yrs. exp./FREE ESTIMATES 1 YR WARRANTY/Lic. & Ins.

Advantage Painting 770-255-8575 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs No Up Front Money Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured

40 | December 10, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com | Recycled paper

Proudly Announcing Cherry Street Taproom Opening Early December 20 Cherry Street Taps • Craft Cocktails • Tapas • 2014 King of the Cask Grayson Blues & Brews Fest st • 2014 2nd Place Barrel Agedd Strong Ale US Beer Open Check out our • 2013 Best of Show at website for events CherryStreetBrewing.com Grayson Beer Fest

Great Rotating Draft Beer Selection 12 Hand Crafted Beers on Draft Every Day!

Come Celebrate Cherry Street’s 2 Year Anniversary on 12/12/14!

Tapping special keg of 12/12/12 barley wine and other rare barrel aged beers.

Find Cherry Street at all the local growler shops!

Now on Tap D.E.C.O.S. Double Expresso Chocolate Oatmeal Stout

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Mon. Family Night, KIDS EAT FREE & BINGO at 6pm Wed. Team TRIVIA at 8pm

Serving Breakfast Mon-Fri 7am-11am Sat & Sun 8am-11am

Breakfast • Lunch Dinner • To-Go • Catering Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers

Biscuits, Omelettes, French Toast, Egg Platters & Bowls, Steak & Eggs, Kids’ breakfast Menu

Wings • Chicken Lips • BBQ Ribs Pulled Pork • Veggies & More!

Order Your Holiday Catering Today!

ROASTED WHOLE TURKEY INDIVIDUAL TURKEY BREAST DINNERS $13 Also Serving Spiral Glazed Hams!

ROASTED TURKEY BREAT

Feeds 10-12 People Stuffing & Gravy, Green Beans, Dinner Rolls & Cranberry Sauce Whole Package $74.95 Half $39.95 A La Carte Whole $42.95 Half $24.95

Feeds 10-12 People Stuffing & Gravy, Green Beans, Dinner Rolls & Cranberry Sauce Whole Package $89.85 Half $49.95 A La Carte Whole $59.95 Half $32.95

Thurs. CHERRY STREET BEER SPECIALS OPEN MIC at 7:30pm Fri. Prime Rib & Steak Specials Sat. Rib & Steak Specials RickPrime Tanner’s 770-205-5512 Brewery Tours form 2-4pm Sun. Brunch 11am-2pm & Live Music Limit 1 per group. Must present this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 4-25-14.

5810 Bond Street • Cumming, GA (at the corner of Post Rd. & Majors Rd. in Vickery Village)

770-205-5512

www.cherrystreetbrewing.com Open Mon-Fri 7am • Sat & Sun 8am