Forsyth Herald, December 17, 2014

Second city debate

Shop with a cop

Nearly 200 kids shop in annual event ►►PAGE 7

Commissioners discuss Sharon Springs ►►PAGE 4

Fencing for muscular dystrophy Lambert’s team raises money for classmate ►►PAGE 11

Celebricktion Father, son’s mammoth Lego City now on display ►►PAGE 20

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

Christmas parade highlights beginning of holiday season

By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Market Place Boulevard in Cumming saw its ninth annual Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 6 as part of the Market Place Christmas weekend event.

Despite rainy weather, the parade marched with colorful

PHOTOS BY SHANNON WEAVER/STAFF

Green hats filled the landscape as hundreds of Girl Scouts participated in the parade.

Forsyth scores at top of state writing test

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools’ (FCS) students scored among the highest on the Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT). The test is administered to 11th graders.

The overall percentage of 11th grade first-time test takers in Georgia meeting or exceeding the standard on the

GHSWT increased in 2014, rising from 94 percent in 2013 to 96 percent this year.

FCS had an overall 99.2 percent passing rate, with the overall passing score for Georgia as 96.5 FCS had 12.4 percent exceeding the standard and 86.8 percent meeting the standard.

The overall mean writing scale score for

See TEST, Page 4

holiday floats between Buford Dam Road and Highway 120.

Participants included the South Forsyth High School equestrian team, Children’s Healthcare at Forsyth, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from the Forsyth County area.

The event also included a Christmas-themed Jingle Jog 5K.

Santa made an appearance at the Cumming Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 6.

Forsyth County High School Georgia High School Writing Test scores School name

Number tested

% Does not meet standard

% meets the standard

% exceeds the standard

% pass

Mean writing scale score

West Forsyth

522

0.8

93.7

5.6

99.2

229.64

South Forsyth

593

0.2

84.7

15.2

99.8

234.28

North Forsyth

530

2.1

89.6

8.3

97.9

228.95

Lambert

677

0

80.1

19.9

100

237.36

Forsyth Central

404

1.5

88.6

9.9

98.5

229.61

i-Achieve Academy

15

0

80

20

100

228.73

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Teacher’s aide steals student’s iPad

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CUMMING, Ga. — After a woman bought an iPad online through Facebook, she realized it belonged to someone else, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

Kelsey Salie, 21, was charged with theft by taking, a misdemeanor, and taken to Forsyth County Detention Center.

On Nov. 27, the woman who bought the iPad called the victim’s parents, because their phone number showed up after she activated the device.

The parents said their 6-year-old son had been missing his iPad since Nov. 19. Their son last had it in his book bag at his school, Chestatee Elementary off Keith Bridge Road.

The woman told deputies her father bought the iPad for $200, and he met the seller’s girlfriend for the exchange.

The victim was shown a picture of the seller, but the boy did not know him. However, the boy recognized the seller’s

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.

Shoplifters ditch car with $4K in merchandise CUMMING, Ga. — After three men shoplifted more than $4,300 in merchandise from a store, they sped off and later ditched the car in the woods, according to a Cumming Police incident report.

Frankie Hampton, the alleged driver of the car, suffered numerous injuries as he tried to elude officers on foot. He was taken to Emory Hospital.

Officers said a Georgia State Patrol helicopter was used to search for the other two suspects, one of which was armed with a pistol, but officers were unable to locate them.

The loss prevention officer of Walmart, 1500 Market Place Blvd., told deputies the three suspects stormed out of the store’s back exit at about 11:30 p.m. Dec 3.

She said they were loading thousands of dollars’ worth of unpaid for electronics into a 2006 Chrysler Pacifica.

She said the suspects took off before she could get a look at the license tag.

Officers spotted the SUV on Saunders Road and followed it as the suspects turned left onto Buford Highway.

The suspects saw the officers in pursuit, and tried to elude them by driving into a neighborhood.

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girlfriend, Salie, because she was a student teacher at his school.

Chestatee’s principal confirmed Salie had just finished an internship with their school on Nov. 21, and she was not scheduled to return.

On Dec. 4, deputies had Salie come in for questioning, and she later said she took the iPad. Salie said while the class was out of the room Nov. 19, she went into the victim’s book bag and took the iPad. She said she removed the case and threw it away in a trashcan in the hallway. She said she took the iPad home and cleared it on her computer to restore it to factory settings. She then said she posted it on her boyfriend’s Facebook for cash.

She said she did it, because “she is not working and wanted to buy her family some Christmas presents.”

Officers said the suspects ditched the car behind a home in the 3000 block of Waterstone Drive and fled on foot.

After a search, the officers were only able to find Hampton in the woods, a short distance from where the suspects left the car.

Officers searched the suspect’s car and found GPS devices, Leap Frog education games and devices and cellphones among the numerous items.

Officers said they found a GPS on the front seat with five addresses listed inside for other Walmart locations in the area.

Armed robber ‘calmly’ demands cash CUMMING, Ga. — A masked man robbed a supermarket of $300 in cash before disappearing on foot, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

An employee of La Bodega Supermarket, 138 Tidwell Road, told deputies he was working behind the counter when the masked man came in at about 7:45 p.m. Dec. 2.

The employee said the robber, who was dressed in all black with a black mask, pointed a black handgun at him and demanded he take the cash from the register and put it into a black plastic bag.

Then, the employee said the robber grabbed the bag and ran out of the store.

Deputies reviewed the video surveillance and said the suspect walked to the store. They said the suspect walked

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behind the back of the store to wait for customers to leave.

Deputies said the suspect “appeared to be very calm,” and the employed confirmed this.

Squatter throws dog, herself out of window

CUMMING, Ga. — A woman wanted to avoid getting caught being in a home she did not own, so she tried to escape out a window, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

Lisa Yancey, 50, was charged with criminal trespass, a misdemeanor, and possession of a controlled substance, a felony. Yancey was taken to Forsyth County Detention Center.

The property owner of a home in the 5000 block of Archer Avenue told deputies someone broke into his property at about 3 p.m. Dec. 7.

The owner said one of the suspects was still there.

When deputies arrived, they saw a woman, Yancey, as she dropped her dog out of a window and then jumped out of the window herself.

Deputies caught up with Yancey.

She said she was running, because she was afraid of the homeowner.

She told deputies she paid partial rent to live at the home, but did not have a key.

The homeowner said Yancey had no right to be there, because she had never paid rent nor signed any paperwork.

Yancey’s son arrived, and told depu-

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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.

Drug arrests ►► Sean Dorien Wright, 22,

of Savannah Run, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 27 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and open container. ►► Christopher Michael Konke, 24, of Stratfield Way, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 29 on Century Trail in Gainesville for possession of methamphetamines and possession of drug-related items. ►► Tony Russell Ballard, 29, of Gainesville was arrested Nov. 29 on Century Trail in Gainesville for possession of methamphetamines and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jonathan Dylan Martin, 22, of Valley Landing Court, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 30 on Parks Road in Cumming for possession of marijuana. ►► Erica Rachel Bennett, 32, of Mill Station Lane, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 30 on Keith Bridge Road in Cumming for possession of a schedule II and IV controlled substance and drugs not kept

in the original container. ►► Jason Ernest Landry, 46, of Atlanta was arrested Nov. 28 on Highway 369 in Cumming for possession of a schedule III controlled substance, possession of drugrelated items and pedestrian under the influence. ►► Terril Dusean Colbert, 25, of Seneca, South Carolina, was arrested Nov. 28 on Highway 369 in Cumming for possession of marijuana and windshield violation. ►► Antoinette Hattie London, 30, of Riverdale, Georgia, was arrested Nov. 28 on Highway 141 in Cumming for possession of cocaine, improper lane change, following too closely and seatbelt violation.

DUI arrests ►► Mohammed Ershad

Suman, 43, of Rocking Horse Lane, Cumming, was arrested Dec. 1 on Rocking Horse Lane in Cumming for DUI, speeding and failure to maintain lane. ►► Alissa Anne Oliver, 38, of Ballington Drive, Cumming, was arrested Dec. 2 on Peachtree Parkway in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and littering. ►► Ruben Sanchez-Leal, 21, of Franklin Goldmine Road, Cumming, was arrested Dec. 1 on Main Street in Cumming for DUI. ►► Daniel Durant Watson, 25,

of Flowery Branch was arrested Nov. 27 on Nichols Road in Suwanee for DUI, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane and attempting to elude police. ►► Stephanie Leigh Johnson, 25, of Dishroom Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 27 on Bethelview Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Dianna Lynn Trotta, 28, of Woodstock was arrested Nov. 26 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Cayla Junelle Ruth Estep, 24, of Pittman Circle, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 26 on Kelly Mill Road in Cumming for DUI, failure to maintain lane and possession of marijuana. ►► Matthew Keven Ham, 21, of Brown Thrasher Trace, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 22 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI. ►► Stephanie W. Blanton, 37, of Glenfield Trace, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 30 on Peachtree Parkway in Cumming for DUI. ►► Jeremy M. Davenport, 35, of Doc Bramblett Road, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 30 on Freedom Parkway in Cumming for DUI and speeding. ►► William Roberto Alvarado, 41, of Highland Gate Drive,

Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 3

Keep the holidays safe and fire-free ATLANTA — The American Red Cross Metropolitan Atlanta chapter has released safety tips to avoid a home fire during the holidays.

• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights to avoid damaging cords.

• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

HOLIDAY DECORATING: • Choose decorations and artificial trees that are flame resistant or flame retardant.

• If getting a real tree, choose a fresh one and secure it in a sturdy stand.

• Place the tree away from heat sources and exits and water it daily.

• If hanging stockings on the fireplace, do not use the fireplace for fires.

• Keep children, pets and decorations away from lit candles.

• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.

• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.

• Connect no more than three strands of mini light sets and the total number of bulbs to 50.

• Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of LED strands to connect.

Some strings of lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

COOKING HAZARDS: • Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are two of the top three days for cooking fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Follow these simple steps to avoid a cooking fire around the holidays: • Test smoke alarms.

• Check food regularly and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.

• Enforce a “kid-free zone” in the cooking area and make children stay at least 3 feet away from the stove.

• Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stove, oven or any appliance that generates heat.

• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen. Contact a local fire department for training on the proper use of extinguishers.

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4 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Commissioners debate idea of second city

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

Also at the meeting

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County could have a second city in the future.

At the Dec. 9 Board of Commissioners work session, County Attorney Ken Jarrard discussed the idea of adding a second city and presented the potential impacts of the creation of the city of Sharon Springs.

The Sharon Springs Alliance, a nonprofit organization started by concerned citizens, is currently studying whether a new limited services “city light” municipality is feasible for South Forsyth. Steve Benefield, a founding member of the Sharon Springs Alliance, said they were not aware that the commissioners had planned to discuss cityhood at the work session.

“It is unfortunate that the Sharon Springs Alliance was not part of the discussion as we have spent 18 months researching this project and are well informed about the concept of a limited services city,” said Benefield. “Public meetings held during professional business hours further highlights one of the many challenges homeowners face in participating in the discussion of South Forsyth County’s growth issues.”

For the work session, Jarrard made a presentation about adding a new city to Forsyth County. During the presentation, there were displayed pictures of the study area boundary and streets. The commissioners discussed the water and sewer service that a city of Sharon Springs would use, and if Forsyth County would be responsible.

The area of Sharon Springs would hold a population of approximately 50,000 residents, which is about 25 percent of the county’s population. The new city would be approximately 40 square miles and include some of the most valuable properties and real estate in the county, said Jarrard.

The proposed city of Sharon Springs would be a “city light,” meaning it would be a city with limited powers. According to Jarrard’s presentation, the Sharon Springs Alliance has proposed the new city would control the powers of planning and zoning, code enforcement and solid waste management.

During Jarrard’s presentation, Sharon Springs was compared to the city of Peachtree Corners in Gwinnett County

Test: Continued from Page 1 FCS was 232.41, a 7.5 increase over the mean score for Georgia, 224.91.

FCS Superintendent, Dr. Jeff Bearden said that the district is data driven.

“We have provided our schools resources and training to allow them to better understand their student’s strengths and resources while also providing them resources to allow for individualized learning,” said Bearden. “Our approach to writing is no different, and our schools work vertically from elementary, to middle, to finally high to build and strengthen the communication skills of our students.”

The Board of Commissioners voted on appointing/reappointing the following people to the following positions: • Dr. John McGruder as veterinarian to the Animal Control Board to serve a two-year term from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2016.

• Vicki Rennick as member No. 2 to the Animal Control Board to serve a twoyear term from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2016.

• Commissioner Todd Levent as Forsyth County elected official position to the Avita Community Partners Board of Directors – term will run concurrent with the elected official’s office beginning Jan. 1, 2015.

• Pam Bowman as member to the Planning Commission to serve a four-year term from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2018 for District 1.

• Michael Gravitt as member to the Public Facilities Authority to serve a fouryear term from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2018 for District 1.

• Edward Kroell as member to the Public Facilities Authority and as member to the Zoning Board of Appeals to serve two four-year terms from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2018 for District 3.

• Jack Shoemake as member to the Zoning Board of Appeals to serve a four-year term from Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2018 for District 1. because the two are relatively similar.

Peachtree Corners was established in 2012, has a population of approximately 34,000 and is approximately 18 square miles. The commissioners discussed that while Peachtree Corners is a little over half the size of what Sharon Springs would be, Forsyth’s new city could run similarly to Peachtree Corners.

Commissioner Todd Levent questioned how the city would pay for infrastructure to be maintained. Jarrard suggested that the upkeep of roads would be anticipated to be from Forsyth County because Sharon Springs would be in the Forsyth County road system.

Likely revenue sources for Sharon Springs were also discussed and included alcohol license and permit fees, special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) funds and local option sales tax (LOST) funds. It was mentioned during the pre-

FCS ranked sixth for mean writing score, but the other five schools ranged from 10 to 505 students tested and FCS testing 2,741.

As for each individual school, Lambert High School (LHS) and i-Achieve Academy both had 100 percent passing.

LHS’ mean writing scale score was 237.36, while i-Achieve’s was 228.73.

LHS had 80.1 percent meet the standard with 19.9 exceeding the standard. i-Achieve had 80 percent meet the standard and 20 percent exceed the standard.

Forsyth Central High School had a mean writing score of 229.61, with 88.6 percent meeting the standard, 9.9 percent exceeds the standard and 98.5 percent passing.

North Forsyth High School

sentation that allocating the funds from LOST and SPLOST would require negotiation and agreement between the county and the new city.

Jarrard estimated that city residents of Sharon Springs would pay an estimated $7 million in taxes, based on similar figures from Peachtree Corners.

“The Sharon Springs Alliance looks forward to the results of the required feasibility study from the Carl Vinson Institute at the University of Georgia, which will provide accurate and unbiased financial data regarding the funds required to support a city in South Forsyth,” said Benefield.

Jarrard said that as proposed, Sharon Springs would be roughly twice the size of Peachtree Corners, and it would be less dense. This will likely make the cost of providing solid waste services much higher in Sharon Springs than it is in Peachtree Corners.

As proposed, Jarrard said the city of Sharon Springs would not be able to provide road construction and maintenance, park and recreational services, fire and emergency services and water sewer service.

Because zoning is a primary concern among Sharon Springs city proponents, the work group suggested an alternative to the cityhood proposal would be to create a Special Planning District encompassing the same area proposed for the city.

“Any solution to the problems in South Forsyth is worthy of discussion,” said Benefield. “We appreciate that Mr. Jarrard and the BOC recognize that we do indeed have problems regarding development that need immediate attention.

“The new Special Planning District would perhaps provide short-term relief to our immediate problems. However, the Sharon Springs Alliance supports longterm solutions via a local government,” he said. “A local government is directly answerable to its citizens. We feel elected city officials representing local homeowners can more effectively govern the proposed area of Sharon Springs than the current BOC structure.”

No matter which way is picked, there would be a transition period until Sharon Springs could sustain itself.

Jarrard and the commissioners will do more research into surrounding cities and discuss again at their next meeting.

had a mean writing score of 228.95, with 89.6 percent meeting the standard, 8.3 percent exceeding the standard and 97.9 percent passing.

South Forsyth High School had a mean writing score of 234.28, with 84.7 meeting the standard, 15.2 exceeding the standard and 99.8 percent passing.

West Forsyth High School had a mean writing score of 229.64, with 93.7 percent meeting the standard, 5.6 percent exceeding the standard and 99.2 percent passing.

“We are very proud of the accomplishments of our schools,” said Bearden, “and to lead the 15 largest counties in the state in multiple categories is a complement to our dedicated teachers and support staff.”

LHS’s 100 percent passing rate is phenomenal, especially since they are the 11th largest high school in Georgia said Bearden.

“Their staff was dedicated to addressing the needs of each learner and working with them to exceed the standards of the state,” said Bearden.

To further their success, FCS will continue focusing on doing what is right for children, said Bearden.

“Each of our schools has continuous improvement plans that outline their goals and our district departments build their annual plans around these to insure that support is given where requested,” said Bearden. “For many of our schools this year it is the continuation of the data teams training.”

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From left in the back row are Mike Carter, ProLink Atlanta volleyball club coach, Mark Riley, ProLink Atlanta volleyball club coach, and Pinecrest Academy High School Principal Ed Lindekugel. In the middle, from left, are Nicholas Denkman, Mike Denkman, Megan Denkman and Pinecrest varsity volleyball head coach Meg Bohn. On the front row, from left, are Michael Denkman, Keely Denkman and Gabrielle Denkman.

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Pinecrest senior signs with Belmont Abbey for volleyball

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Belmont Abbey College signed its newest volleyball player Dec. 10.

Keely Denkman is a senior at Pinecrest Academy, 955 Peachtree Parkway, and a varsity volleyball athlete.

She’s been playing volleyball for seven years with varsity volleyball head coach Meg Bohn.

“She’s a natural born leader with great talent,” said Bohn. “She came to me not able to play at all, and now she’s going on to play college. She’s an example of work ethic and determination. You either want to lead or you don’t. Sometimes people have the gifts but they don’t do a good job with them.”

Bohn said that coaching Denkman wasn’t just about the sport, but also about how to be a better person.

At a critical game earlier this year, the team felt defeated. Bohn asked Denkman what she wanted to tell the team as their captain.

“Keely said, ‘I think we need to stop playing for ourselves and play for each other,’” said Bohn, “to stop being selfish.”

That was one moment when Bohn knew Denkman would be a volleyball star.

Denkman said she’s been dreaming about playing college volleyball since the eighth grade.

“Playing club, the workouts and the training — this is all I’ve worked for,” said Denkman. “I’m super excited. I’m most excited about playing and building relationships with my team. I’m also excited for the things that come along with playing volleyball besides

[Keely’s] an example of work ethic and determination.

You either want to lead or you don’t.

Sometimes people have the gifts but they don’t do a good job with them.”

MEG BOHN Pinecrest varsity volleyball coach

actually playing, such as the strengthening mentally, physically and emotionally.”

Bohn said she has no doubts that Denkman will thrive at college.

“She’s very balanced and can balance academics, sports, friendships, relationships and family,” said Bohn.

“She doesn’t do it perfectly all the time, but I think she’s ready. I have no doubts about her success in college. As a freshman coming in, she’ll be young and she’ll have to pay her dues, but she’ll have her eyes on the spot she wants and she’s going to work really hard for it.”

For now, Bohn is going to celebrate Denkman and enjoy their remaining time together.

“She makes me a better person and a better coach,” said Bohn. “It’s been so much fun. Coaching Keely Denkman is fun.”

COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 7 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON

From left to right, Emily Traub, 18, Madisyn Traub, 12, Deputy Chief at Brookhaven Police Department, Ron Freeman, Brandi Moore, Corporal Mike Waddell, Arianna Hernandez, 6, DFC Adam Campbell, Sherri Varesi, Abby Boyett, 6 and Jason Boyett, 5.

Cops shop with 198 kids this year

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Unsuspecting shoppers at the Marketplace Walmart, 1500 Market Place Boulevard, on Dec. 10 might have thought the store was being robbed by the amount of police officers there.

Unbeknownst to them, the annual Sgt. D.P. Land Lodge 82, Cops and Kids shopping event was going on.

Every year, the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) at Sgt. D.P. Land Memorial Lodge 82 of Forsyth County, 248 Castleberry Industrial Drive put on this event to help make some local children’s holidays a little bit brighter.

President of the FOP until the end of this year is Chris Shelton. He said that the children who participate are chosen through their guidance counselors and social workers at school. Once the names of the children are decided, Shelton said the FOP does a background check to make sure the children aren’t receiving help from other places and so they can provide for the family.

After the list is finalized, the families are notified and the real fun and planning begin.

With 198 children signed up to participate, this year’s event is the largest the FOP has ever seen.

That means it take a lot of

cops to shop with.

“Everyone here volunteers, no one is getting paid,” said Shelton. “It’s a 100 percent volunteer program. We invite the Cumming Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Natural Resources, Milton Police Department, Sandy Springs Police Department, Brookhaven Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office and Alpharetta Police Department.”

The lodge holds fundraiser and accepts donations for the event. Because of the amount raised, every child who participated got $100 to spend this year.

“The $100 comes from local donations,” said Shelton.

“We raise all the money from our telemarketing program or through people who have been corporate sponsors in years past for the Cops and Kids program. Everything we bring in we send right back out in the community.”

Because the FOP is a 501 (c) (3) organization, the items that were purchased were discounted and tax free.

“Walmart is absolutely wonderful as host,” said Shelton.

“They provide us 10 percent off the total markup on what we spend, it’s tax free because of our 501 (c) (3) status and they donate $1,000 to our program every year through a commu-

nity outreach program through Walmart.”

The program is set up for underprivileged children ages 3-14-years-old. The lodge tries to separate and break up the participants so every year there’s someone new, but that doesn’t always happen.

“We have had a family here three times,” said Shelton. “It’s just because they’re so needy.

We don’t want any kid to go without a Christmas — that’s our goal.”

While most would think that these children would be shopping for toys for themselves, Shelton said the two most popular items might be surprising.

“Believe it or not the most popular two items are clothes,” said Shelton, “because they want to look like the other children at school, and bicycles.

We do have restrictions on anything that could possibly hurt them.”

One family that was shopping for the first time was Bonnie Day, Melissa Day and her children, Aidan Elder, 9, and Riley Day, 6. Melissa Day said this event was more than her children receiving gifts. They also learned lessons and saw how everyone comes together for the holidays.

“It is really important for the kids to be around the police officers giving back and just to see what the season is

From left to right, Lisa Dunford, picked toys out with Dpt. Brittany Swartout¸ and her sons Jared Dunford, 13, Jason Dunford, 19 and Ryan Dunford, 11. really about,” said Day. “Overall to be able to freely give of them means a lot. It gets the kids involved and then they see the involvement in the community and they like it.”

Shelton said events like this are so important for two reasons.

“These kids would not have a Christmas if we weren’t to step in and help them out,” said Shelton. “I think it’s one of the few times the children get to see us in a positive light as law enforcement and not always in a negative light. This is one of the few times we can bond with them and show them that we’re just like them

and we’re sharing a common bond that they have a merry Christmas.”

Shelton said the FOP holds a second back-to-school event during the year that’s similar in nature to Cops and Kids. He said there are two ways people can donate to this cause, the first being the telemarketing campaign. The second is to send money directly to the FOP, 248 Castleberry Industrial Drive, with attention to Cops and Kids program or needy children.

For more information on the FOP, visit http://www. dplandlodge82.org/.

8 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

OPINION

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Magic of Christmas is in memories it creates

KATHLEEN STURGEON

Bonnie Day, Melissa Day and her children, Aidan Elder, 9, and Riley Day, 6, shop with Deputy 1st Class Jeremy Kingsley.

Cops, kids and enlightenment “I’m so excited that I have a lunchbox now!”

This was not what I was expecting to hear when I went to cover the Forsyth County Fraternal Order of Police’s Cops and Kids event Dec. 10.

My expectations going into the event were probably stereotypical. I thought the children involved would be shopping for toys, including dolls and video games.

While there was toy shopping, I was shocked to see a little girl almost in tears at the fact she now has a lunchbox, and a boy budget his allotted money for socks and underwear.

It made me stop and think how fortunate I am. It also made me think about the families who live in North Fulton and Forsyth County who aren’t as well off as many of us.

Forsyth and Fulton County’s median household incomes are well over $50,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

This can make it hard to imagine that others living near us, including our neighbors, don’t always have the same quality of life as we do.

The most frequently bought item at the event was clothing, so the children could be like their peers and not stand out.

Even items as simple as lunchboxes and socks, things often taken for granted, were like treasures to these children.

It was also almost equally as important to see the positive interactions between the families and law enforcement members.

The FOP president said a

KATHLEEN STURGEON

Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com

Even items as simple as lunchboxes and socks, things often taken for granted, were like treasures to these children. lot of times, these children see officers only when they’re in bad situations – and that can make the children think poorly of the police.

It was so crucial for this event to happen to shed a positive light on police in general.

During the holiday season, it’s easy to forget about the needy families around us while we’re trying to find the perfect gift for our own family members.

With all the negative stories we’re exposed to, this experience is just one of many instances of how to get out during the holiday season and see how people can truly care for each other.

In this case, it’s hard to decide who got more out of the Shop with Cops event — the kids or the cops.

From the time we are children, Christmas is special. Of course when we are young, it is all about the anticipation of Santa Claus.

Two major events came each year as far as I was concerned. One was the last day of school because that meant another endless summer loomed before me. Anything was possible come June 1 (or thereabouts).

Perhaps a visit to far-off lands such as Colorado. I was born in Texas, which is mostly flat as a pancake, so the opportunity to see a real mountain was akin to floating down the Amazon.

In the summer, every day was Saturday – except Sunday of course, which meant I would still have to go to Sunday school and church.

Yes, summertime when you are 7 years old is an indescribable period of almost endless excitement. But it wasn’t a patch on Christmas.

Christmas was every day of summer compacted and condensed into one single day.

One glorious incandescent day of absolutely boundless joy, you are Christmas.

The gloom of the first day of school would be tempered by the knowledge that the countdown to Christmas had begun. You could not truly appreciate the approach of Christmas without the balancing drudgery of homework, spelling tests and that plague of all mankind – arithmetic.

Just as there is no light without dark, there was the beacon of Christmas. It shone like a lighthouse with the promise of great things yet to come as we navigated the treacherous shoals of third grade.

No doubt prison must be something like school. You thought you would scream if you had to listen to Alvin Loveless read aloud. He destroyed Dick and Jane with the most mind-numbing monotone, fingernails-onblackboard voice that completely ignored all vestiges of punctuation.

Then there was the no talking in class commandment. Six hours of sitting in class without talking – except for Susan Holden who did it all the time.

She never got in trouble because she could always say something to the teacher that would make her smile and forget to correct Susan. What an injustice.

Then you had to line up to go anywhere. “No cuts,” was

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Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

the admonition invoked when some transgressor tried to inveigle himself near the front.

And teachers policed the crime of cutting in such a desultory way, it made you think the fabric of civilization was being whittled away, one cut at a time.

But there were oases through that desolate wasteland that was school. They were there to ease life’s burdens as you made your way to Christmas. The first, of course, was Halloween.

So much candy, so little time. Off I would go in the care of my older brothers – who promptly would abandon me three houses down from our front yard.

No matter. It’s all about the candy anyway.

Then came Thanksgiving and all that turkey and dressing. You had to get through Monday Tuesday at school, but then you were free until the following Monday. It gave you the will to go on.

For once Thanksgiving was over, there was no pausing before the assault on the Summit. It was Christmas or die, and many times I thought I would just die if Christmas didn’t get here.

First the tree went up and the whole family decorated it.

I was jealous of my brothers who had favorite ornaments and claimed the right to hang them on the tree themselves.

Oh, I burned at that.

I wanted my special ornament too. Of course Mother gave me one, but that wasn’t good enough.

I coveted the ones my brothers had. Those ornaments were Tradition. And my puny elf ornament was new, so it didn’t have any tradition.

I wanted their ornaments and railed at the injustice of it all.

As the presents began to appear under the tree, I would haunt them, count them and mark each one with a name on it. I would mourn at the paucity of gifts engraved for me.

But their number would grow, and I would pick them up, feel their heft – even hold the ones in thin tissue up to the light and cast my practiced eye over them.

And woe is unto me if the

heft of a box indicated that most disappointing of contents – socks and underwear.

As the days approached – 10, then nine, now eight … truly did I understand how time can stand still.

Then comes Christmas Eve. Everyone is so nice, even my older brothers who are never nice, but this night they are almost pleasant.

But as the youngest, I am the only one banished to the bedroom. I’m told the sooner I sleep, the sooner Santa will come. As if sleep were possible.

No visions of sugarplums danced in my head. No it was filled with racecars, a Fort Apache set, a football and the like.

I would hear laughter coming from the living room and my eyes would fill with tears of bitterness. As the youngest, I always had to go to bed just when the fun was greatest. My brothers were not exiled, and I was left to contemplate the unfairness in this world.

Then I would awake. And immediately I knew it was Christmas morning.

I would run into my parents’ bedroom and wake them up. My father and I would have a philosophical discussion as to whether 4 a.m. was truly morning.

I argued in the affirmative, most eloquently. It was 4 a.m. after all.

My father took the position that sunrise must figure prominently in any definition of morning and sent me back to bed.

Finally, I was allowed – nay, unleashed – to go to the living room. Again, time stopped.

I am transfixed. With acute tunnel vision, I can only see my corner of the room – that was one tradition I did share.

Almost uncomprehendingly, I saw that all of this was for me. The things I had hoped to get were forgotten in the midst of wonderful things I never knew I wanted until now.

Oh, Christmas. Happy, happy Christmas of days long ago.

What treasured memories they bring. And how does one recapture that bliss?

Why the best way of course.

I’ll sit in the corner of another living room Christmas morning and watch all that joy and bliss reflected – in the eyes of my grandchildren.

Oh happy, happy Christmas.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 9

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COMMUNITY

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Hoops N Sand hosts Christmas, New Year’s and camps CUMMING, Ga. — Hoops N Sand will hold sports camps over Christmas, New Year’s and Spring Break. While the camps are open to girls and boys in elementary and middle schools, athletes will be divided by age/skill level and instructed through various drills and playing situations.

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CUMMING, Ga. — Northside Hospital kicked off the holiday season on Dec. 5 with its 26th annual Celebration of Lights Christmas Tree Lighting in Cumming, 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive. An estimated 3,000 people were in attendance at Northside HospitalForsyth for the much-anticipated event.

This year’s Celebration of Lights gave all attendees an evening of fun and entertainment with activities such as face painting, arts and crafts, cookie decorating and sand arts.

Santa Claus was available to take pictures with children and listen to Christmas wish lists.

The event featured performances by the Coal Mountain Elementary School Melodies on the Mountain Chorus, Fusion Dance, Mashburn Elementary School Chorus, Dance Now, Sawnee Ballet Theatre and the Forsyth Central High School Chamber Singers. WSB-TV anchor Fred Blankenship served as the event’s emcee for the eighth year.

Each of the 15,000 lights on the Christmas tree can be purchased and designated in honor or memory of family, friends and physicians who have been affected by cancer.

Festive cards, designed by a local student, are sent to loved ones.

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

Lights will be available for purchase through Dec. 31.

For more information about Celebration of Lights or to

Northside Hospital-Forsyth administrator Lynn Jackson introduced Santa Claus before he set off to take photos with the children. make a secure tax-deductible donation, visit https://give. northside.com/lights or call

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Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 11 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Local family needs help funding specialist visit

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Treatment and relief are getting closer for a local boy with the help of his peers and community.

The Lambert High School fencing club raised funds to help Charlie Mabry, 16, on his upcoming trip in January to visit a specialist for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Mabry is currently a 10th-grader at Lambert High School. He has a long-awaited visit with Dr. Jerry Mendell in Columbus, Ohio who specializes in Duchenne muscular dystrophy in boys.

Mabry’s medical battle made great strides this year, said his godmother, Daniela Vellotti.

“From Charlie’s typical shower involving a lot of discomfort, not to mention time, and a trip with his mom to the store not even being an option,” said Vellotti. “To being able to roll straight into a large, beautiful shower or to go with his parents on any errand, his quality of life saw quite an improvement in 2014.”

This improvement was greatly in part to a nonprofit group and a supportive community.

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The Lambert Fencing Club posed with Charlie Mabry, his mother Jennifer Main, stepfather Kurt Main and godmother, Daniela Vellotti. selected Mabry to receive a home modification, including making his bathroom wheelchair accessible, said Vellotti.

Fundraisers set up by volunteers also helped the family.

“With the funds raised, Charlie’s parents were able to put a down payment on a modified van - something desperately needed,” said Vellotti.

Mabry’s needs don’t stop at a bathroom and transporta-

tion, said Vellotti.

His upcoming visit with Mendell is crucial because Mendell was a founding member of the study group The Clinical Investigation of Duchenne Dystrophy, (CIDD) and he directs the neuromuscular research program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

Vellotti said this is significant for Mabry’s health and medical care, and the Lambert

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fencing club is making sure this trip happens.

“These incredible students got together to present Charlie with a fundraising check last week,” said Vellotti. “In addi-

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These kids are simply astounding in their grace, kindness, talent and honor.”

Vellotti said Mabry needs this type of differentiated care at this point in his rapid disease progression in order to prolong his quality of life.

Vellotti said Mabry’s family attributes his good health to continuity.

“There are key teachers who have taken him under their wings and cared for his wellbeing and future,” said Vellotti. “The students are quite frankly amazing to me in their kindness and goodwill toward him. Staying in that community has been quite difficult at times for his parents, but they make it their number one priority.”

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12 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Going Green

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

Making a difference in your local community Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014

Green giving – Making sustainable choices this holiday season There are many things I love about the holidays; spending time with family, home-cooked feasts and the pretty holiday decorations that cheer up a dreary winter backdrop.

What I don’t love about the holidays is the massive amounts of waste and excessive consumerism.

The holidays have become more and more about shopping and gift giving and less about the truly important things.

Depending on your spiritual beliefs, the holidays mean different things to different people. However, across the board, there is generally a meaning to this time. There are traditions to be observed and ceremonies to be performed.

Family and friends get together. We celebrate and give thanks for our blessings.

We share and give to others and help those less fortunate than us.

Wouldn’t it be great to combine all of these aspects of the holidays? Gift-giving, sharing and helping others. With this in mind, I’ve put together a list of sustainable gift ideas to help

Helpful websites

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inspire you to think outside the box this year and give a gift that is thoughtful, memorable and also good for the planet.

Give a CSA share – Local farms all over the country offer CSA programs (community sustained agriculture). By joining a CSA, you are supporting smaller farmers who are organic or certified naturally grown.

You can purchase a share for someone as a gift and they would get to enjoy healthy, fresh foods for many months to come. Many CSAs also offer gift certificates.

Give an animal – Heifer International is an organization that seeks to end hunger while empowering people to become self-reliant. Supporters finance the purchase of livestock for families in developing countries.

To find CSAs: locallygrown.net Heifer International: heifer.org National Wildlife Federation: nwf.org Heirloom seeds: seedsavers.org bountifulgardens.org E-cards: acquielawson. com Unique gifts: etsy.com These animals provide food and income. Honor someone on your shopping list by buying an animal in their name.

The animal will go to a needy family and a gift card is sent to your recipient telling them about the gift you donated for them.

Adopt an animal – Through the National Wildlife Federation, you can symbolically adopt an animal as a gift for someone. They will receive a certificate and a plush toy of the animal adopted. This makes a great gift for kids. The

NWF also sells other naturethemed gifts and holiday cards.

Proceeds from adoptions and sales go to support the protection of wildlife and connecting people to nature.

A subscription to a magazine focusing on environmental stewardship and sustainable living. “Mother Earth News” and “Natural Home” are good choices offering earth friendly solutions and tips.

Give the gift of a garden – Planting and saving heirloom vegetable and fruit seeds helps perpetuate a variety of foods that are diminishing, resulting in a narrowing diversity in our food systems.

If you know a gardener, a gift certificate to an heirloom seed catalog where they can select seeds of their choosing would make a thoughtful and useful gift.

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Etsy is also a certified B corporation, a certification process that evaluates companies on social and environmental

performance.

Harry and David offers an organic fruit basket that also features environmentally friendly packaging.

Suggestions for reducing holiday waste: When buying wrapping paper, look for items that are made with recycled content and are 100 percent recyclable.

Also, look for soy or vegetablebased inks.

Consider holiday e-cards.

Some sites offer yearly memberships so you can send all the cards you want for one nominal fee, which adds up to big cost savings as well as reducing waste.

Recycle or reuse wrapping paper and gift bags.

Holidays are also a great time to support local charities with monetary gifts or the gift of your time by volunteering during this busiest of seasons.

This year, give some extra thought to your purchases and consider more sustainable choices. Encourage others to do the same and help protect the planet we share.

Mason Street parking facility opens in downtown Cumming Deck is second of two funded by voter-approved sales tax program FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The new Mason Street parking facility located near the Forsyth

County Administration Building is now open. It is the second of two new parking decks

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The three-level, 222-space Castleberry parking facility at the intersection of Castleberry Road and Maple Street opened for use over the summer. Both parking facilities are part of the new courthouse and jail project funded by the voterapproved Special Purpose Local Option Sales (SPLOST) VII program.

The courthouse and jail are slated to open in 2015.

COMMUNITY

Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm donates 113 trees to Trees for Troops 2014 marks 14th consecutive year donating

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup. com CUMMING, Ga. — Christmas got a little brighter this year for a few military families, thanks to Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm.

For the 14th consecutive year, Bottoms participated in the national Trees for Troops program.

Trees for Troops is a program of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation that provides free, farm-grown Christmas trees to U.S. armed forces members in all branches of the military and their families.

This is made possible through donations, sponsorships, grants and the work of many volunteers.

One group of volunteers includes Nathan Bottoms from Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm, 5880 John Burruss Road.

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“Originally, when we began participating in this project, the Georgia Christmas Tree Growers Association asked each farm member to donate 10-12 trees,” said Bottoms. “We did this for several years, but the need was much greater than we were supplying.

We began including school systems, churches, Rotary clubs and other community organizations to help raise money for the Trees for Troops program. Now, we donate around 100 trees each year.”

Bottoms said Trees for Troops is a service project where the general public sends Christmas trees to families in the military through financial donations, but it’s more than just giving a tree to a family.

“As grateful Americans, we should always look for a way to say thank you to our military,” said Bottoms. “As a Christmas tree farm, this was a need and a way that we can help out.”

Bottoms’ goal for each year is 100 tree donations, but this year the farm

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exceeded that by donating 113.

The Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm is family-owned and operated and is the oldest working Christmas tree farm in Forsyth County, said Bottoms.

Dennis and Sandra Bottoms purchased the farm in 1993 and soon began planting Christmas trees.

Their children are Sallie and Justin Power, Nathan and Megan Bottoms, Mary and Andrew Garner and Matthew Bottoms.

They have three grandchildren, Ella, Raleigh and Brooklyn.

“Together with wonderful friends, they work very hard to provide customers with the perfect Christmas tree and to make their visit to the farm a fun and memorable experience,” said Bottoms.

Although this year’s event is over, anyone interested in helping out can plan for the 2015 campaign, which will begin Sept. 1, 2015 and end Dec. 1, 2015.

For more information, visit www.bottomstreefarm. com.

Justin and Sallie Power and their kids, Ella and Raleigh love visiting the Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm.

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www.LovingHands.com 770-667-9022

COMMUNITY

14 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Mayor Gravitt talks about history and future of CUMMING, Ga. — For Mayor H. Ford Gravitt, discussing the growth of the city of Cumming is an easy chore, since he has lived it for over four decades.

Gravitt, who’s been mayor since 1971, spoke to the Cumming chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America at their monthly meeting on Dec. 1.

Gravitt said he has watched

the city and county grow from around 12,000 in 1970 to nearly 200,000 today.

The mayor has had an important role in the development of many important projects such as the new courthouse and jail, the satellite campus of the University of North Georgia, development or redevelopment of city recreation facilities

and the construction of the new Georgia National Guard Readiness Center.

Gravitt said when he first joined city government as a member of the City Council, Cumming had a mere $60,000 annual budget and only 28 employees.

He said the city raised about $40,000 in property

taxes and had to borrow the rest. At that point, he proposed a referendum to allow the sale of alcoholic beverages inside the city.

Despite vocal opposition, “ridicule and being preached about every Sunday,” he said the citizens voted their approval by a three to one margin. In the first year, alcohol sales pro-

duced $400,000 in tax revenue and ever since, the city has not had a property tax and never needed to borrow money again.

Gravitt said his focus as chief executive is attracting business and industry to provide both jobs and revenue to support the things that local government needs to do.

As an example, he dis-

Religious Services It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Christmas Eve Services

Johns Creek United Methodist Church • www.JohnsCreekUMC.org

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24 Christmas Eve Services 3:00 | 5:00 | 7:00 | 11:00 p.m.

Living God’s Song!

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

– Luke 2: 1-20

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

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

COMMUNITY

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 15

city to Vietnam vets cussed the $2.5 million investment the city made in water and sewer infrastructure which enabled the city to attract Costco.

The membership club has hired 200 employees and will have $150 million in gross revenue its first year.

“These are the kind of good, clean businesses that employ

our citizens and generate millions in sales tax for the city and county,” said Gravitt.

In January 2015, Gravitt will have been mayor for 44 years and the distinction of being one of the longest serving in the state.

He is by far the longest serving mayor in the history of the city of Cumming.

Mayor H. Ford Gravitt speaks to the Dec. 1 general membership meeting of the Cumming chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Experience

the true meaning of Christmas

at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church 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) 5 and 7 p.m. Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols (nursery provided) 11 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service

180 Academy Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

770-751-0033

www.alpharettapres.com

16 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Sponsored by

The Saudis have predicted oil will stabilize at about $60 a barrel.

That’s good news for us, bad for Iraq, Russia and Venezuela.

JOHN DOGGETT, University of Texas

JOIN TODAY: 770-993-8806 • WWW.GNFCC.COM

Economist provides roadmap for U.S. rebound

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA, Ga. – Local commercial brokers got a pep talk from one of the nation’s leading economic minds this month, and they came away with ideas on how the global economy can affect their business.

John Doggett, a senior lecturer in the Department of Management at the University of Texas, told a crowd of more than 100 business leaders in Atlanta that recent changes in the global economy puts the United States in a position to outpace all countries as a world economic power.

Speaking at a Georgia Certified Commercial Investment Member meeting, Doggett said the end to the Cold War and this year’s collapse of the world oil market represent two “strategic inflection points” that can give the United States unprecedented opportunities to prosper.

“A strategic inflection point is a fundamental change in the way business operates,” Doggett said. “It’s a ‘before and after.’”

There is a problem among American businesses that conditions them to fear tinkering with success, he said. However, he said businesses often miss the reality of a situation.

“The Saudis have predicted oil will stabilize at about $60 a barrel,” he said. “That’s good news for us, bad for Iraq, Russia and Venezuela.”

The news was not lost on local broker Josh Barnes, director of real estate operations at Orkin & Associates in Milton. He said the industry will continue to see labor cost challenges, but with the drop in oil prices, many construction-related ventures become more affordable.

“The cost of diesel fuel is cheaper, and that means it’s going to be cheaper to move dirt and operate the big machinery,” he said. “That can help us in the real estate market as we start to develop.”

Barnes said his company will be breaking ground shortly on a 156-acre acre Deerfield Township development in south Forsyth County, so he is hoping to see stable production and grading costs. Deerfield Township was approved as a master plan development last year. A single-family neighborhood component has already broken ground with sites being prepared and infrastructure established to begin building homes, he said.

Atlanta is historically a high-vacancy metro area, and it still is today, according to Jeff Myers with CoStar Portfolio Strategy, one of the nation’s largest real estate research firms.

Vacancy levels climbed to more than 25 percent in some areas during the recession.

They have since fallen into the mid-teens as job growth recovers.

Doggett also spoke about

the perceived threat from the Chinese economy, which has shown signs of slowing recently.

If the United States came to grips with the notion that it cannot continue to run deficits, it could rebound on the world stage, he said.

“Seven percent of the money spent by our federal government goes to pay interest on the debt,” Doggett said. “The implications of that number on our future are significant.”

And it’s not just the government that is overspending.

Students in school now owe more than a trillion dollars in student loans, he said.

America’s biggest debt holder is China.

“What if the Chinese decide tomorrow the will not buy another dollar from the United States?” Doggett asked. “What would that do to our interest rate? It would skyrocket.”

However, there are inroads to China, Doggett said.

There are needs that American companies can meet in the most populous nation in the world. China has massively overbuilt, and 250 million people are being forced to relocate to occupy this new construction, he said.

The country is also home to the world’s largest environmental movement because the population is choking to death on pollution.

Business and civic leaders from Sandy Springs are already mining one of the largest

PATRICK FOX/STAFF

John Doggett, senior lecturer at the University of Texas McCombs School of Business, visits with one of the attendees at the Georgia Certified Commercial Investment Member luncheon held at the Cherokee Town Club in Atlanta Dec. 4. markets in China: health care for the aged.

Sandy Springs has the largest concentration of health care facilities between Washington and Houston. The city has spread that message to China, where a one-child mandate and the massive move by young people to the cities have left millions of elderly struggling.

Sandy Springs is continu-

ing conversations to export expertise and help build facilities to meet that growing need.

James Comerford, managing director of Proscenium Capital and chairman of the Sandy Springs Economic Advisory Committee, said the city has a wealth of intellectual knowledge in an area of health care that is now one of the greater societal issues facing the Chinese.

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

NewBusinessSpotlight

Adler Chiropractic marks 20 years in Roswell Business: Adler Chiropractic Opened: 1994 Owner: Dr. David Adler What: Dr. Adler celebrated his 20th anniversary (and 24th year in practice) serving Roswell, Alpharetta and North Fulton.

For three weeks, the practice offered all new patients the anniversary promotional fee of $20. The celebration was topped off with a party attended by loyal patients, colleagues from the

chiropractic and medical fields, members of the City Council and business leaders in Roswell Inc. Where: 1475 Holcomb Bridge Road, #177, Roswell Hours: Monday, Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Saturday, by appointment.

Phone: 770-594-2233 Web: www.adlerchiro.com

Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 17

Sports Revolution changing youth sports climate Business: Sports Revolution Opened: September 2014 Owner: Tony Schuster What: Our main goal is to increase training and development for players, parents and coaches and promote services to help all sports teams and leagues in your area from youth sports up to and including high school athletics.

We can be the catalyst for healthy, positive change in the youth and high school sports environment. Sports Revolution utilizes technology, resources and strategic partnerships to achieve a happier, healthier and more productive youth sports climate.

Hours: 24/7/365 Phone: 309-287-8021 Web: www.sportsrevolution.com

BusinessPost

The value of using a process map Do you use a sales process in your small business? Have you aligned your sales resources to each step in the process?

Are you using technology to enable your sales process to be more efficient? Creating a “process map” will help you to maximize both the effectiveness and efficiency of your sales process.

So, what is a process map?

Simply put, it is a document that breaks down each step of your sales process, and allows you to “map” both human resources and technology to

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

each step in the process. For example, the lead generation process may be done by a telemarketer, while a sales representative would be responsible for customer meetings and

preparing proposals.

It’s easy to create a process map using an Excel spreadsheet. Documenting all the steps in your sales process on the horizontal axis (columns) of the spreadsheet and your sales resources on the vertical axis (rows) creates an “intersection” of a process step with the resource responsible for execution. Documenting the specific actions that occur in each intersection will provide an “end-to-end” view of who does what during all steps in your sales process.

You can then add a “technology” and “tools” row at the bottom of the process map to spell out the specific systems that support each process step. Measurements of process effectiveness and efficiency – like how many leads does it take to generate a sale, or how long does it take to generate the leads – can also be used to improve your sales process.

People, process and technology drive sales results, and having a process map can help you make your sales process better!

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)

America’s #1 Best Place to Move Forbes (2009)

#2 Best Place for

Job Seekers in Georgia NerdWallet (2013)

JOIN TODAY!

www.AlpharettaChamber.com

18 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

AWARDS »

Milton builder wins Gold OBIE MILTON, Ga. — The Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association Sales and Marketing Council awarded builder t-Olive Properties a Gold OBIE Award building a custom, single-family home in the $1 million to $2.4 million category in The Hayfield development, Milton.

The OBIE Awards are the pinnacle of accomplishment within the Atlanta homebuilding industry and serve to recognize outstanding achievements in more than 100 categories.

“Winning this Gold OBIE Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Randy Schiltz, president of t-Olive Properties.

“Each aspect of the home was carefully designed and planned. It resulted in a truly beautiful home.

It is something we are very proud of.”

For information, visit www.toliveproperties.com.

PROJECTS »

Wakefield Beasley awarded Creekside Village project ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta’s Wakefield Beasley & Associates has been awarded the Creekside Village Assisted Living project by Provident Development Group.

Creekside Village is the first phase of a multiphase senior development site located in Smyrna, Georgia.

The estimated $10.9 million project will be a 78,500-square-foot, three-story building with 108 rooms and a designated wing for those who need more intense support due to dementia or other memory-related functions.

PEOPLE »

Wakefield Beasley names new project coordinator ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Wakefield Beasley & Associ-

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

Call today for your free IT assesment.

– Tyler Jones, Principal

678-224-8000 • www.CarmichaelConsulting.net

BusinessBriefs ates, a top architectural and design firm in the Avalon complex in Alpharetta, announced that Bianca George has joined WBA as a project coordinator in the multi-family studio.

George brings six years of industry experience to the firm and has worked on many projects, including the Fulton County Aviation GEORGE Community Cultural Center, Jean Lafitte Prairie Acadian Cultural Center and Annapolis Towne Center.

“Bianca represents the first hire to our new, Atlanta-based multi-family studio. She brings residential experience, a diverse background and a great attitude to the team. I am very excited to have her come in on the ground floor of this new venture,” said B.J. Laterveer, director of the multifamily studio.

George earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Hampton University and a master’s degree in arts administration from Savannah College of Art and Design.

REAL ESTATE »

Harry Norman represents River’s Edge Milton MILTON, Ga. — Harry Norman, Realtors and agent Annemarie Russo are the exclusive representatives of Milton’s newest luxury community River’s Edge Milton.

The Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 12 to open River’s Edge Milton.

Mayor Joe Lockwood cut the ribbon to officially welcome the community. Sponsors included the Sequoia Club and Southeast Mortgage.

River’s Edge Milton consists of 133 acres in the heart of Milton’s horse country and farm land. One of Milton’s newest gated luxury communities, the community will consist of custom built estates on 1.6-acre to 5-acre home sites with walking trails and other amenities.

For information, visit www.RiversEdgeMilton. com.

COMMUNITY »

Sawnee EMC donates to charities, schools CUMMING, Ga. — The Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation recently awarded $26,490 to local charities through its Operation Round Up program.

Local charitable organizations that received funding included Act Together Ministries, The Place of Forsyth and North Fulton Community Charities.

The Foundation Board also awarded $13,022.89 in classroom grants to teachers within the Sawnee EMC service area, including Hillside Elementary School, Whitlow Elementary School and Piney Grove Middle School.

These programs are funded by Sawnee members who round their electric bill up to the next highest

Got News?

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com dollar, averaging $6 a year. This “extra change” goes directly into the Sawnee Foundation. These small, yet generous, donations have allowed the Foundation Board to donate over $1.63 million back into the communities since inception in 2003.

For information, call Cindy Badgett, director of external affairs, at 678-455-1399 or email cindy. badgett@sawnee.com.

NEW BUSINESSES »

Burger Dispatch delivers in Alpharetta ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Sisters Saphire Sumpter and Satoria Sumpter turned a veggie burger craving into a San Francisco-like delivery service in June with Burger Dispatch. The Alpharetta-based business delivers from local restaurants to the customer’s door.

When their favorite burger spot didn’t offer delivery, the sisters decided to provide the service themselves, personally selecting restaurants for traits such as freshness and quality.

Delivery is within a five-mile radius of each restaurant, with a flat fee of $7 plus 50 cents per mile added on per order.

“We know standard protocol is to launch in a big city, but we’re excited to have Burger Dispatch based in Alpharetta – because it’s unexpected,” Satoria Sumpter said.

For information, visit www.burgerdispatch.com.

Advance Auto Parts opens third store in Alpharetta ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Advance Auto Parts announced it will open its third store Dec.18 in Alpharetta at 10825 State Bridge Road.

The new store offers a wide range of parts, recognized national brands and free services, including installation for new windshield wipers, a complimentary check of the vehicle’s electrical system and old battery and installation of a new battery with purchase on most vehicles.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Other locations are 5596 Highway 9 North and 731 North Main Street in Alpharetta.

For more information, visit www.advanceautoparts.com.

Marco’s Pizza opens in Cumming CUMMING, Ga. — Marco’s Pizza announced it will open Dec. 15 at 2332 Atlanta Highway in Cumming creating up to 25 jobs.

“Pizza lovers in Cumming will quickly find out that we’re substantially different than your typical pizza chain,” said Chander Vashishat, owner of Marco’s Pizza in Cumming. “We were attracted to the Marco’s brand because it was founded on Italian freshness and quality standards, making it stand out from all other well-known brands.”

For information on Marco’s Pizza franchising opportunities, visit www.marcosfranchising.com.

Send Us your Business News Business@AppenMediaGroup.com

CALENDAR

EDITOR’S PICKS

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

Forsyth Herald | December 17, 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:

CELEBRICKTION LEGO SHOW

A show with demonstrations and creations by Lego Robotics.

Show features viewing a city built out of 1 million Lego pieces by Harry and Austin Nijenkamp.

High Meadows School Community Center, 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

Saturday, Dec. 20 through Monday, Dec. 22 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person Visit celebricktion.com for more info.

Contact: Fred Jakobsen, 425-2051854 Info: The light event is hosted at a private home. Park on the street outside, and then walk down the driveway to the garage and trailer where the lights and animations are set up. Donations are welcomed for Toys for Tots.

HOLIDAY POPS CONCERT 1853 WEDDING REENACTMENT A reenactment of the 1853 wedding of Mittie Bulloch to Theodore Roosevelt, Sr. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell from Monday, Dec. 22 from 6-9 p.m. Adults $15, children $10.

Visit bullochhall.org for more info.

Laura Story Where: Perimeter Church, 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek When: Sunday, Dec. 21 Hours: 5-7 p.m.

Cost: Free Online: perimeter.org/laurastory

RACES & BENEFITS:

HOLIDAY SHOPPE 141

SANTA’S VILLAGE

What: A collection of lights, animated characters and Christmas characters to create a winter wonderland.

Where: Fred Jakobsen, 405 Waverly Hall Drive, Roswell When: Wednesday, Dec. 17 through Thursday, Jan. 1 Hours: Daily, 6-9 p.m.

Cost: Free

A Christmas concert performed by the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra. Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. Saturday, Dec. 20. Show begins at 8 p.m. Adult tickets are $30, senior tickets $25 and student tickets $15. Visit johnscreeksymphony.org for more info.

VELVETEEN RABBIT

A play production of the children’s story, Velveteen Rabbit. The Dancing Goat Theatre, 1000 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. Thursday, Dec. 18 through Saturday, Dec. 20.

Showtimes vary. Tickets are $5 each Visit performingartsnorth. org for more info.

What: 10 vendors exhibit unique items such as clothing, art and handcrafts for sale.

Where: Commonwealth Plaza Holiday Shoppe 141, 1614 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming When: Thursday, Dec. 18 through Tuesday, Dec. 23 Hours: Thursday and Tuesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Cost: Free admission Contact: Kim O’Day, 678-314-8753

When: Friday, Dec. 19 through Sunday, Dec. 21 Hours: Showtimes vary Cost: $25 per ticket Online: metropolitanballet.org

27TH JINGLE JOG

What: The 27th annual Jingle Jog 5K Where: Lambert High School, 805 Nichols Rd., Suwanee When: Saturday, Dec. 20 Hours: Race begins at 8 a.m.

Cost: Between $15 to $25 Online: jinglejog.com

THEATER: CHATTAHOOCHEE: REIMAGINE OUR RIVER FILM

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT AT

What: A viewing of Chattahoochee Nature Center’s feature film, Reimagine Our River Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell When: Saturday, Dec. 20 through Sunday, Dec. 21 Hours: Showtimes vary Cost: Price of viewing is included with general admission, $10 for adults and $7 for seniors and students Online: chattnaturecenter.org

MUSIC: CHRISTMAS CONCERT

BY LAURA STORY

What: A Christmas concert performed

by Perimeter Church’s worship leader,

NUTCRACKER PRODUCTIONS: THE NUTCRACKER BY SAWNEE BALLET THEATRE

What: A theatre play production of The Nutcracker by Sawnee Ballet Theatre Where: South Forsyth High School, 585 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming When: Thursday, Dec. 18 through Sunday, Dec. 21 Hours: Showtimes vary Cost: $15 for student tickets, $20 for adults Online: sawneeballettheatre.org

THE NUTCRACKER BY METROPOLITAN BALLET THEATRE

What: A theatre play production of The Nutcracker by Metropolitan Ballet Theatre Where: Blessed Trinity High School, 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell

THE NUTCRACKER BY ALPHARETTA DANCE THEATRE

What: A theatre play production of The Nutcracker by the Alpharetta Dance Theatre Where: Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Hwy., Alpharetta When: Saturday, Dec. 20 through Sunday, Dec. 21 Hours: Showtimes vary Cost: General admission is $20 Online: alpharettadancetheatre.com

NORTHSIDE WOMAN

20 | December 17, 2014 | Forsyth Herald

Submit your news to editor@northsidewoman.com

How big can you dream?

Roswell father and son built huge Lego city with no glue and no rules

By KATIE VANBRACKLE katie@northsidewoman.com ROSWELL, Ga. – If you are a fan of Lego’s toy building bricks, then you won’t want to miss “Celebricktion,” a magnificent Lego city display containing more than one million Lego pieces, all “free-built” by Roswell father and son building team, Harry and Austin Nijenkamp. The show, to be held Dec. 20-22 at High Meadows School’s Community Center in Roswell, is a fundraiser for the Drake House, with all proceeds from ticket sales benefiting emergency housing for homeless women and children in the community.

Celebricktion’s Lego city is a wonder to behold – with towering skyscrapers, parks and gardens, sailing ships on a blue ocean and 2,000 minifigures filling the streets in a DragonCon-style parade. All straight from the boundless imaginations of Harry and Austin, who build with no glue and no rules.

“The great thing about Legos is there are no limits on what you can build. If you have the time, talent, money and are willing to put in a lot of sweat and late night hours, you can do it,” said Harry.

“I grew up playing with Legos in Holland. Back then, it was still expensive, and there were just a few basic shapes in primary colors. We mostly built houses,” he recalled.

Harry and his young son, Austin, eventually worked their way up to the biggest Lego set on the market, which in 2001 was the 3,000-piece Statue of Liberty. But instead of being satisfied, the pair still had the itch to build something even bigger and better. They started ordering pieces in bulk and designing their own creations,

like a 14-foot skyscraper with 20,000 windows, a Japanese castle surrounded by blooming cherry trees, a Mexican restaurant complete with mariachi band in sombreros and a museum with big picture windows allowing one to peek inside to see dinosaurs on display.

Harry and Austin build in “mini-figure scale,” meaning everything is the appropriate size for a Lego character.

“Here’s a fun fact – if we were to build a model of the Empire State Building in minifigure scale, it would be 33 feet tall,” said Harry.

Astounded friends encouraged Harry and Austin to share their creations with the public, and in 2011, the pair built a large Lego city for the showroom at Honda Carland in Roswell. The free display drew large crowds of enthusiastic Lego fans. As their Lego creations grew, so did the need for more space in which to build.

A large bonus room in Harry’s home is now his Lego studio, with 1,500 custom labeled bins covering the walls, organized by color, then by part. Lego makes 14,000 different parts, and Harry owns about 10,000 of them.

How does he find them all?

“Every Lego part has a number, and there are networking websites such as Bricklink.com that link Lego buyers and sellers. We get Legos in the mail almost every day at my house. We’ve ordered from almost all of the 50 U.S. states and from dozens of countries around the world.”

Harry’s wife, Kristy, doesn’t join in the building process, but helps behind the scenes with organization and administrative tasks.

“Yes, she sometimes thinks all this is crazy, because it is crazy, but she’s fully support-

Harry and Austin Nijenkamp with their Lego city

If you go What “Celebricktion”

Fundraiser

When: Dec. 20-22, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day Where: High Meadows School’s Community Center, 1055 Willeo Road in Roswell More Info: www. celebricktion.com $10 tickets – 100 percent goes to support the Drake House in Roswell, providing emergency housing for women and children in the local community. ive,” said Harry with a chuckle.

Daughter Nikole, 21, is away from home earning a college degree in chemical engineering. Austin, 19, is also a college student, though a bit closer to home, which still allows him to partner with his Dad on building projects.

Appropriately, for a young man who has been designing and building massive Lego cities for years, Austin is studying to become an urban planner.

In addition to the massive Lego city display, Celebricktion will also include a Lego robotics demonstration, a replica of Harry’s Lego studio and various creations by other metro Atlanta Lego enthusiasts.

Harry looks forward to visit-

Harry works in his home studio. ing with Lego fans young and old during the show.

“Legos appeal to all ages, from young kids who love to build, to adults who are into design or robotics,” he said.

“People are impressed by the largesse of the whole thing, and kids and teens love spotting their favorite pop culture characters in the display.

A bunch of the ‘Lego Movie’ characters are there, as well as

Star Wars, Harry Potter, BatMan, you name it. And people can enjoy the show and feel good knowing that the cost of their ticket is going to support a great cause.”

If you visit Celebricktion, look for the tall Dutchman with the friendly grin. Harry is happy to “talk trade” with Lego fans and you are sure to come away inspired to dream big.

Really, really big.

Find your paper online at issuu.com/appen-inc August 28, 2013

History lesson

Legionnaires

hold Courthouse to donated American artifacts Society by the Historical ► PAGE 4

| forsythherald.com

| 73,500 circulation

Post See this year's Auxiliary 307 Legion and members ► PAGE 11

Revue & News,

Real Estate Report

Ssssnake bites on the rise

Special section ► PAGE 16

bitten Area pets being at alarming rates ► PAGE 7

'We own the mistakes'

Schools take blame for jam ► PAGE 4

Good samaritans

Residents open hearts, homes ► PAGE 6

New Birmingham Cross raised

Symbol of welcome for congregation ► PAGE 10

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No. 35

ley Forsyth mulls Cauon Creek sewer opti

closed ng facility Fulton Looking at reopeni State law prohib-

sewerage its pumping HURD to

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Cauley Creek, into focus, EnvironmenAs plans come own Johns Creek be cheaper county will have would Amos said the tal Campus discussions” in the long “full and open Creek and and as effective ALDO NAHED/STAFF with both Johnsabout Cauley run. to expand its Fulton County Forsyth needs at Fowler. in the Shakerag enjoys skating Creek. capacity student, sewer at that point Elementary it has been “But we’re not a Vickery Creek area, because growth area.

Samuel Cushman, yet,” he said. ner tapped as a are Forsyth Commissio Forsyth officials on represents commenting Brian Tam, whosaid it is just are guarded about negotiations Shakerag, also about where the idea since bids for building too soon to talk ongoing and ons-perForsyth is at. a new 2.5 million-gall situation. opened only “It’s a delicate is a numday facility werecounty has $27 there Somewhere, for us to last week. The sense construcfor makes ber that million budgeted to say we are facility. do this. It’s fair tion of the ShakeragChairby renowned options includwas designed Hollyday, of assessing our Forsyth County rmed the Tam said.

– Fowler Wally Creek,” Ga. confi Cauley architect Amos ing CUMMING, man Pete in 2008 met is in a good are-foot with Cauley California, who “Forsyth County look at these Park’s 23,000-squ county has talkedbut it is still to draw county skaters can with about 40 final design position. We we have budskate park continues CEO Ron Green, the . to help craft bids for which million. And enthusiasts. who very much preliminaryour opfor the park. to skaters, geted up to $27Cauley Creek.

For Mark Cushman, “We are evaluatingare still he was at In addition now, we a we can look had skated when have joined tions. Right need to keep a great opthe bids we have other enthusiasts and BMX So all of them younger, it was comparing to with hang out the new plant in. Stunt scooters the numerALDO NAHED/STAFF Page 6 portunity to received for 10, and See SEWER, of that basin,” bikers now share of Cumming, two sons, Samuel, serve the needs Conor McKeon, a place ous ramps.

Benjamin, 7. are really said Amos.

—Aldo Nahed said it’s nice to have “The lights US TO ARRANGE said. “You to BMX. HERE NOW! CONTACT good,” Cushman on page 24 A TEST DRIVE TODAY dark.”

More photos can stay until skate park The county’s

Shredding rk at skate pa

d!

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The 2014 Infini

February 5, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 9, No. 6

Cities grapple wit h gridlock, snow

Frustrated’ crews respond to clogged traffic

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A first for students to stay home ► PAGE 6

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Milton Creek Herald,

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South relocating to

hold a place in our hearts. We are relocathis ing to South he will resign Feb. 1.

Georgia, Post 4 seat effectivehe said, “I closer to In a statement citizens for our my sales wish to thank serve seven to territory in allowing me as a City Georgia and FIGUEROA wonderful years in Johns Florida. The Council memberKaren and I move will alCreek. My wife daughters in both markets low me to be have raised our by wondertime on the and spend less time at home here, surrounded supported by road and more ful friends and could we with my family.” the finest schools Page 4 imagine. and all it See COUNCIL, “Johns Creek, forever will es, encompass

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Fulton County Schools let out just as the snow on buses and in classrooms began, leaving students LOU HABLAS due to heavy traffic. stranded

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PAGE 27

Johns Revue & News, | 73,500 circulation

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. wanted to know what – If you ever looked like with every Atlanta’s roads resident driving on them, Tuesday, Jan. 28 should give a glimpse. Schools, businesses and governments all shut same time, turning down about the workers out onto the streets at the same time.

Variously called “Snowmageddo n,” “Snowpocalypse,” or “SnOMG,” local governments were quickly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of motorists on the road and the worsening conditions throughout the day.

A commute that would normally take 20 minutes turned into a 10-, 14- or 20-hour drive.

Alpharetta had 50 Department employeesPublic Works begin salting the roads as the snow began on Tuesday, said Public Works Director Pete Sewczwicz.

Over the course of Tuesday and the following day, Sewczwicz said hundreds of tons of sand and salt were put down by workers working 12-hour shifts.

Unfortunately, as traffic grew, so did Above, in Milton, the problems.

Hopewell was like so many others Road “We had all our trucks – clogged with traffic and abandoned ready to go,” he said. “Our problem vehicles. is we couldn’t get anywhere once we treated The worst intersectionsit once.” and bridges were hit first, however, day as the salt trucks with the slugbegan using gish lines of traffi police cruisers as c, the salt trucks escorts to move could not get to the traffic aside. hot nor could they return spots quickly; Conditions became to those already treated. The trucks cal police departments so bad, lobecame as stuck as the traffic. help stranded motoristsrefused to or come to It’s a problem a frustrated fender-benders.

Sewczwicz said was unavoidable.

“People didn’t know where to “When cars are backed turn,” said Lisa Holland, up and with the you cannot get your Roswell Police Department. vehicles there to treat roads again,” 911 call centers were he said, “and where busy with people are stopped endless calls for help in and you get ice. There’s snow and rain, “We had to save our police. nothing we can do resources with that. We were for the most serious frustrated. Because calls,” Holland of the saturation said. “In 30 years, of traffic, we couldn’t I’ve never seen do more.” anything like this.”

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Forsyth Herald | December 17, 2014 | 21 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Cat of the week: Sweetgirl CUMMING, Ga. — Sweetgirl was found by a caring person who fed her for a few weeks before they discovered that she was expecting. She had a litter of kittens, who have all found forever homes. Now that she’s spayed, she’s ready to find a loving home of her own. Sweetgirl is sweet, playful and very affectionate and would make a great addition to any family. You can meet her 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.

DEATH NOTICES

Dog of the week: Red CUMMING, Ga. — Meet Red, a male 3.5-year-old Golden/Setter mix. He likes to jump just for the joy of it. And running after a ball is nice too. Red loves to be petted and loved on. Maybe you could come up to the shelter and play with him? Please give Red a chance to fill your heart and home with love. He would be your best friend forever.

You can meet Red 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.

Arrests: Continued from Page 3 Cumming, was arrested Nov. 30 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 ties he knew his mother was not allowed to be there. He said he showed up to help her move clothes.

After getting permission from Yancey, deputies searched bags of clothes strewn around the home and found pills not prescribed to her.

‘Scrooge’ damages Christmas decorations CUMMING, Ga. — Some scrooge has been sneaking around and cutting the cords to Christmas tree lights, according to Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident reports.

On Dec. 2, a woman in the 1000 block of Preserve Lane told deputies the damage to the Christmas lights in her front yard has occurred four times in the past two weeks.

In all incidents, the woman said it appears someone used scissors or a knife to cut the light cords.

A man in the 5000 block of

►► Michael Shawn Lloyd, 40,

of Ball Ground was arrested Nov. 28 on Highway 369 in Cumming for DUI. ►► Diana Lenae Grose, 23, of Ansley Lane, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 29 on Market Place Boulevard in Cumming for DUI and speeding.

Beaver Ridge Drive told deputies he came home Dec. 1 to see the lights on his decorative white Christmas tree not working.

He said he checked the plug, but it was secure.

Then, he saw the power cord had been cut, which caused $75 in damage.

Burglar breaks into Tyson’s CUMMING, Ga. — Someone dropped through ceiling tiles of a chicken plant and stole cash and blank checks, according to a Cumming Police incident report.

A plant manager of Tyson Foods Inc., 340 West Maple St., told officers the burglar landed inside the accounting office when he broke in Nov. 23.

The manager said the suspect knew where the key was to the safe and stole seven $50 gift certificates, $95 in cash and 42 blank checks.

Officers said it was clear the suspect went through the ceiling tiles as the insulation was pushed back. The suspect also stacked boxes on the outside wall to climb back out.

Harley Bennett, 86, of Silver City, passed away December 7, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Judith Hariett Blum, 95 of Cumming, passed away December 8, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Paul Kavulic, 92, of Roswell, passed away December 4, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Hamilton Bradford Cayce passed away December 3, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Bradley James Keebler, 64, of Woodstock, passed away December 3, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Francesca Maria Capolunghi Burton, 72, of Cumming, passed away December 2, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Margaret Kock, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away December 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Mary Elizabeth Clark, 58, of Murrayville, passed away December 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Catherine Cowart, 76, of Cumming, passed away December 8, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Beatrice Newman, 90, of Roswell, passed away December 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Pamela Faw, 71, of Roswell, passed away December 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

James Wesley Ferris, Jr, 67, of Cumming, passed away December 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Marilyn P. Grossenbacher, 93, of Big Canoe, passed away December 4, 2014.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Doris J. Lathem, 73, of Jasper, passed away December 7, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Janie Cagle Martin, 76, of Rayle, passed away December 8, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Marcelle Mathis, 92, of Oakwood, passed away December 4, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Carol G. Miller, 67, of Atlanta, passed away December 6, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Erika Charlotte Nelson, 96, of Cumming, passed away December 6, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Maureen O’Sullivan, 89, of Roswell, passed away December 1, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Roy Hawkins Pruitt, 72, of Cumming, passed away December 3, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Robert Richards, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away December 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Wilbert Roland, 78, of Alpharetta, passed away December 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

John Sharpe, 74, of Marietta, passed away December 7, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Robert Stanley Smith, 71, of Cumming, passed away December 7, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Shirley Strum, 75, of Roswell, passed away December 8, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Laszlo Toth, 41, of Milton, passed away December 6, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

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