Forsyth Herald, May 21, 2014

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Celebrating America

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Congrats grads

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May 21, 2014 | forsythherald.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 17, No. 21

3 dead bodies found in ’Hooch Officials say no link

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Three bodies found in or near the Chattahoochee River in the past week created a lot of speculation, however the three deaths appear unconnected, say officials.

A 57-year-old Johns Creek woman was found Saturday, May 3. Two boaters

Pincrest Academy choir sings during the celebration.

WHITELAKE STUDIO/Special

Pinecrest Academy celebrates 20th anniversary CUMMING, Ga. — Pinecrest Academy celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special mass on Friday, May 2 attended by the entire student body of the pre-K3 through 12th-grade Catholic school in Cumming, past and present Pinecrest families, members of the local community and members of the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

The mass, which had been postponed from its original date of Jan. 31 due to weather, was presided by the Most Rev. Luis Rafael Zarama, auxil-

iary bishop of Atlanta, and celebrated by Fathers Robert Presutti LC, Pinecrest head of school, Richard Sutter LC, Pinecrest head chaplain, Matthew Kaderabek LC, Pinecrest chaplain, Matthew VanSmoorenburg LC, pastor of St. Brendan Catholic Church, Juan Gabriel Guerra LC, priest at St. Brendan, Timothy Moran LC, Javier Fayos LC, John Gannon LC and Eamonn Shelley LC. The class of 2014 was recognized during the mass,

found the body floating in the river near State Bridge Road.

The victim was later identified as Gee Hee Kang.

Kang was wearing street clothes. She had no identification, but did possess a key to her apartment complex mailbox, which allowed police to determine her name.

An autopsy conducted by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office determined she drowned.

How she ended up in the river is still unclear.

“We do not know yet how

See BODIES, Page 4

State legislators address concerns

By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON carolyn@northfulton.com

with Zarama’s homily touching on the richness of the school’s history and words of advice to the 55 students preparing to graduate. Members of the senior class offered the mass readings, brought up offertory gifts and recited the Prayers of the Faithful.

The mass coincided with Pinecrest’s May Crownings, a special day set aside each May to honor the Blessed Mother.

The high school choir sang a

CUMMING, Ga. — Transportation, taxes and city incorporations were the focus of the post-legislative session breakfast held Tuesday, May 6 at the Forsyth Conference Center.

Members of the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce and the Lanier Forsyth Rotary Club met with state legislators to discuss issues concerning Forsyth County.

See PINECREST, Page 15

See CONCERN, Page 7

We’re here today to discuss issues important to our community.

And it appears the top concern is transportation.”

Paul Chambers Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce board member and regional director at AT&T

public safety

2 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Woman busted for fraudulent legal practice 2 deputies placed on leave

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Two Forsyth County Sheriff’s deputies were placed on paid leave and a North Forsyth woman was arrested on several charges related to a fraudulent legal practice.

Kimberly McAfee Pruitt, 42, of Forsyth County, was arrested on May 9 by Forsyth County Sheriff’s detectives.

Pruitt is being charged with forgery in the first degree, felony theft by taking, exploitation and intimidation of disabled or elderly adults and unauthorized practice of law.

The Forsyth County News reported that Pruitt worked for an attorney and went to some of the attorney’s clients to offer to provide services and took their money

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.

Neighbor catches car thieves in action CUMMING, Ga. — A man stopped two men from towing away his neighbor’s cars, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

At about 8 a.m. May 12, a man in the 5000 block of Dahlonega Highway told deputies he came outside and saw the suspects loading his neighbor’s cars on a tow truck.

He said he stopped them and called 911.

Deputies talked to the suspects, who said they had permission to pick up the two cars.

They said they worked for a company that cleans up foreclosed properties, but did not have any paperwork proving their claim.

The suspects put stickers on the cars with the company’s logo. When deputies called the company, the representative said their inspectors do not put

musgrave

pruitt

without authorization.

Pruitt never provided legal services and accepted more than

$20,000 in fees.

In a news release, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said detectives received a complaint that Pruitt was involved in fraudulent practices. After an investigation, a search warrant and arrest warrants for Pruitt were obtained, the release said.

Pruitt remains in custody at the Forsyth County Detention Center.

stickers on cars.

She said stickers had been stolen from them in the past and put on cars.

The neighbor said he could not reach the owner of the cars, but he said he did not believe any property was being foreclosed on.

Deputies eventually said the men did not have permission to take the man’s property, and told them to leave.

Photos taken up woman’s dress FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman was shopping and noticed a man following behind her, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

On May 8, deputies were dispatched to Walmart, 5455 Atlanta Highway, because a customer told deputies a man had taken photos of her.

She said she was in the peanut butter aisle and saw a man close behind her.

She said he kept pushing a basket near her feet. When she looked down, she saw what appeared to be a smartphone on recording mode pointed up

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Pruitt’s bond is set at $18,535. Pruitt’s husband, Chadd Musgrave, was also arrested during the execution of the search warrant for possession of a sawed-off shotgun, a felony.

Musgrave is also being held at the Forsyth County Detention Center, and his bond is set at $11,110.

As a result of the investigation, two Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office deputies were placed on administrative leave on May 9 as part of the investigation.

Of the two deputies that were placed on administrative leave, one was returned to full duty last week and the other, Rick Clark resigned on May 12.

Sheriff Duane K. Piper had requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) assist in an investigation regarding the deputies involved in this case.

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

DUI arrests ►► Leslie Hope Young,

19, of Goldmine Drive, Cumming, was arrested May 6 on Peachtree Parkway in Suwanee for DUI. ►► Aquwa Jana Herring, 21, of Marietta was arrested May 8 on Majors Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to signal lane change. ►► Charles Allen Shariett, 34, of Grand Junction, Alpharetta, was arrested May 8 on McGinnis Ferry Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Josue Trejo, 22, of Dawsonville was arrested May 9 on Ga. 400 in Cumming for DUI and possession of marijuana. ►► Brandon Lee Potter, 35, of Doc Bramblett Road, Cumming, was arrested May 8 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Quin-Velle Quarles, 25, of

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Gainesville was arrested May 11 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, improper passing, suspended license, and open container. ►► Julio Cesar Zavala, 21, of Gainesville was arrested May 11 on Truman Mountain Road in Gainesville for DUI and hit and run. ►► Uriel Jaimes Bahena, 33, of Marietta was arrested May 9 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, open container, and no license. ►► John A. Rider, 44, of Dawsonville was arrested May 10 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI.

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4 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Georgia’s new weapons law »

What is it, how it affects you State gun bill does not affect federal lakes, lands ATLANTA – On April 23, Gov. Nathan Deal signed into law House Bill 60, otherwise known as the “Safe Carry Protection Act of 2014.”

This is undoubtedly one of the most sweeping firearms legislation changes in Georgia to date.

H.B. 60 was passed with strong majorities in both the House and the Senate, and will take effect July 1.

The day prior to the bill being signed, a Georgia firearms permit holder was observed with an exposed holstered pistol at Fowler Park.

The park contained a large number of children participating in sporting events as well as their parents and guests.

Although the permit holder was exercising his legal right to carry a firearm in a county park and not found to be doing anything illegal, the confusion surrounding his actions generated a great deal of concern by community members and others routinely attending park events.

The recent changes in firearms legislation brought about by H.B. 60 will affect how law enforcement professionals interact with people choosing to exercise their right to legally carry firearms and other weapons in public places, including our city parks and recreational facilities.

We interviewed Alpharetta Police Detective John Srika to help us understand the law.

Will the gun law affect Lake Lanier or Chattahoochee National Park?

The new state gun bill does not affect lakes and lands in Georgia managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or the U.S. National Park Service.

These properties are managed and regulated by the Code of Federal Regulations that also govern possession of firearms. Specify that possession of loaded firearms, ammunition or loaded projectile firing devices is prohibited, unless in the possession of federal, state or local law enforcement officers.

Firearms are permitted in Corps lands and lakes when used in compliance with hunting regulations. Hunting is prohibited at most National Parks.

What is a Georgia weapons carry license?

In general, to carry a handgun either openly or concealed in Georgia (other than on their property or inside their home, car or place of business), or a knife designed for offense and defense with a blade length

Bodies: Continued from Page 1 she ended up in the river,” said Johns Creek Police Spokesman Lt. Chris Byers, adding, “However, there were no signs of trauma on her body whatsoever.”

Two days later, May 5, a man was found in the river near Austell, in Cobb County.

Identified as Perfecto Ochoa Alvarado, 34, his body was

of over 5-inches, a person must possess a valid Georgia weapons carry license.

There are exceptions, such as for exempt people employed as peace officers, district attorneys, judges, wardens and people in the military service of the state or of the United States.

What if I possess a weapons carry license or permit from another state?

Georgia law also recognizes the weapons licenses of Georgia non-residents for which Georgia has a reciprocal relationship with their home state. These weapons license permit holders must abide by the weapons laws of Georgia when they are in Georgia.

Can someone with a weapons license walk around parks or recreational areas with an openly carried firearm?

Georgia law does not prohibit weapons license holders from possessing firearms or other weapons in city or county parks.

Provided that they are not engaged in some other illegal activity within the park, a person with a weapons license can visit a park while exercising their right to bear arms in either an open or concealed fashion.

Isn’t a person with a weapons license supposed to carry their weapon in a holster, concealed from view? Especially in a public park where there may be children present?

In Georgia, weapons license holders may carry any weapon openly or concealed in any non-prohibited location in accordance with Georgia law.

Although it is a good idea to do so, there is no legal requirement for weapons to be carried in any type of holster.

Suppose I see an openly armed person walking along a trail at Webb Bridge Park. Since I have no idea if they have a weapons license, or whether they are a convicted felon, can I request that the police respond to check this person out?

It goes without saying that the safety and security of residents and visitors is of paramount concern to law enforcement. That being understood, Georgia law maintains that law-abiding Georgia residents and non-residents possessing weapons licenses have the right to freely visit locations in our state, while armed, that are not deemed off-limits by state or federal law.

While the law clearly states that weap-

found floating on a log near the Fulton County/Cobb County line. Austell police have officially declared it a homicide and are investigating.

Finally, on Sunday, May 11, the most recent victim was found along the banks of the river, on the federal park land in Roswell.

Markiesha Taylor, 20, of Decatur was found about 1:30 p.m. at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area’s Vickery Creek Park, near the intersection of Ga. 9

In general, to carry a handgun either openly or concealed in Georgia (other than on their property or inside their home, car or place of business), or a knife designed for offense and defense with a blade length of over 5-inches, a person must possess a valid Georgia weapons carry license. ons license holders shall have their valid weapons carry license in their immediate possession at all times when carrying a weapon, this does not mean that law enforcement can detain an armed person (such that they are not free to leave) simply to check whether they are in compliance with this requirement.

Outside of a voluntary casual conversation between the officer and the armed person, the officer must have reasonable articulable suspicion, based on more than just the simple possession of the firearm.

If an officer finds no reasonable suspicion of illegal activity, then outside of a voluntary conversation with the individual, there is very little that an officer can compel a law-abiding armed person to do.

Can people walk around with loaded rifles and shotguns in city parks when there are lots of people around?

If a person is not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, such as a convicted felon, they may carry a loaded gun (like a rifle or shotgun) in locations that are not off-limits, such as public parks.

The big difference here is that you do not have to have any kind of permit or license to carry a long gun as long as you are not prohibited from owning a firearm.

Let’s say I see an armed person sitting on a bench at the park who is cursing

and Riverside Road.

Roswell Police Spokeswoman Lisa Holland said the body was found by a resident walking in the park. It was found along Vickery Creek, which feeds into the Chattahoochee.

“We were initially called out there because somebody found the body,” said Holland.

Because this is federal land, the Federal Bureau of Investigation became involved and the investigation was turned over to them, Holland

See WEAPONS, Page 12 said. However, Tuesday, May 13, the FBI turned the investigation back over to Roswell police after they determined Taylor’s body was moved to the location by the river and dumped.

The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said they have completed an autopsy and are awaiting a toxicology report to determine cause of death, which will take several weeks.

There was no obvious cause of death.

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Library to ‘Spark’ science fun this summer

By ALDO NAHED aldo@forsythherald.com CUMMING, Ga. — Science abounds with exciting programs at all four branches of the Forsyth County Library this summer.

Library storytimes and programs will incorporate science, featuring the themes “Fizz, Boom, Read!” for children, “Spark a Reaction” for teens and “Literary Elements” for adults.

In addition to traditional story times filled with books, activities, music and puppet

shows, the library will offer a special new program this summer entitled “S.T.E.A.M. Team.”

Designed for ages 8 to 11, this exploration-focused program will incorporate activities about science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Many libraries around the country, including public libraries in Georgia, will use the science theme from the Collaborative Summer Library Program, said Stephen Kight, assistant director for public services.

The library will also offer a

large variety of outside performers including magicians, jugglers, artists, scientists and acrobatics, featuring presenters such as Quite a Catch Juggling, STARLAB and Young Rembrandts.

Beginning May 23, adults and children of all ages can sign up for the library’s Summer Reading Prize Program either through the library’s website or by visiting one of the four branches.

Participants set goals for the number of books they plan to read over the summer through Aug. 2. Once that goal is met,

children will receive a certificate and a free book, and they are eligible to attend an end-of-summer ice cream social.

They may also put their name on the “Wall of Robots” and be entered into a drawing to win a science kit.

Teens will receive a free book upon completion and enter a drawing to win an iTunes gift card.

Adult participants are automatically entered to win an Amazon gift card when they register their summer goals.

To launch all summer activities, each library branch will host a Kickoff Carnival the week of June 1. Each carnival day will

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The atmosphere will be filled with fun and learning, and don’t be surprised to find the youth services librarians dressed as mad scientists.

Featuring special performances throughout the day, each branch will raffle off one family four-pack of tickets to the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville.

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Space is limited for some programs. To register, visit the library website, www.forsythpl. org.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 7

Continued from Page 1 Paul Chambers fielded questions from attendees via text message for Sens. Steve Gooch and Jack Murphy and state Reps. Mike Dudgeon, Geoff Duncan, Mark Hamilton and Kevin Tanner.

“We’re here today to discuss issues important to our community,” Chambers said. “And it appears the top concern is transportation.”

Transportation Murphy said transportation is a big issue in Forsyth County, but state involvement requires amending the constitution, which could take years.

“That’s not to say it won’t happen,” the state senator said. “But it will be hard.”

Murphy also said if an amendment is changed, the governor doesn’t need to sign off on it.

Dudgeon said the county’s growth is unique to the state and impacts transportation and schooling.

“If you become a legislation that restricts property rights and restricts building, etcetera, that’s not going to sell well to the rest of our colleagues,” Dudgeon said. “So, we’re really trying to look at legislation for the whole state.”

When asked about funding for the widening of Ga. 400, Gooch, the Senate Transportation Committee chairman, said both the House and Senate are concerned about transportation issues statewide.

“Both the House and Senate passed, almost unanimously, a resolution to form a study committee over the summer that will travel all over the state from eight different locations and times, and we encourage the community to get involved,” he said.

Gooch said the primary focus of the committee is funding and that the Highway Trust Fund is set to run out of money before fall 2014.

“If that happens, any Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) programs with federal money attached to them will come to a screeching halt,” Gooch said.

Gooch said there is nothing more important to the state than to have Congress extend or renew the Highway Trust Fund.

Gooch said the process to improve transportation issues isn’t to determine how to raise taxes in the state, but determine what sources of revenue can be used for funding.

“Tolling is probably our No.1 option on anything we build forward on any major interstate,” Gooch said.

He said Ga. 400 would probably have tolling in the near future to alleviate congestion.

“The first project we have

Rep. Mike Dudgeon

Rep. Geoff Duncan

to tackle is the intersection of I-285 and Ga. 400,” Gooch said. “That’s where the biggest bottleneck is, and then as we move north, we have to have more lanes and interchanges and bridges.

“We’re talking about hundreds of billions of dollars,” Gooch said. “The interchange at I-285 and Ga. 400 is already estimated to be nearly $1 billion.”

Gooch said that project would wipe out funding for other programs across the state for a year.

He said transportation and funding issues are major issues and that Forsyth County is top on his list of priorities.

City of Sharon Springs The state representatives addressed questions surrounding the incorporation of the city of Sharon Springs.

“I’m open to it if the constituents support it,” Dudgeon said. “But that means a town hall meeting with a room so packed people are standing outside.”

Duncan said his experience with incorporating the city of Milton proved the process is complicated.

“The desire cannot be based on emotions,” Duncan said.

“It’s important for everyone to keep an open mind.”

Hamilton said any possible city must come through a statewide law, and not all are approved.

“Six didn’t get approved in the last session,” Hamilton said, “It’s very difficult to become a city.”

He said the process is expensive and that constituents need to decide if they want to pay a tax increase to be part of a new city.

Education Dudgeon addressed Forsyth County’s education program.

“We have a great educational program here,” he said.

“But it’s not true for the rest of the state.”

Dudgeon said he supports digital learning and thinks the county exceeds the rest of the state in digital learning.

He said the concern should be focused on rural Georgia.

“I’d like to see 100 megawatts of bandwidth throughout schools in the entire state to access digital learning,” he said.

Tanner said it’s important

to keep the educational needs of the community local.

“We need to get the state government out of the way and let teachers do their jobs,” the state representative said.

Lake Lanier Attendees wanted more information about efforts to ensure the future water supply of Lake Lanier.

Duncan said it’s a federal issue and not easy to fix.

“Raising the level of the lake by two feet is an option,” he said. “Because the lake is a very important part of our community.”

Murphy said he supports raising lake levels.

“Washington, D.C. handles this,” Murphy said. “They said studies need to be done to raise lake levels.”

Murphy said he has watched lake levels rise and fall for 30 years.

“It’s raised by two feet over 300 times already,” he said. “They know what needs to be done.”

Hamilton said endangered species drive the decisions surrounding Lake Lanier.

“The lake doesn’t collect enough rain and the state had to take proactive measures due to the growing endangered species list,” he said.

He said some people are more concerned for aquatic life than the water supply.

State income tax The final concern focused on the probability of eliminating the state income tax.

All five elected officials said they favor a Fair Tax (to eliminate income tax in favor of a consumption tax) but it is an expensive option.

“The elimination of the state income tax would have to be phased out over several years,” Gooch said. “It’s expensive and would likely require an additional sales tax approach.”

Murphy said he supports eliminating the state income tax, but it would be a longterm process and the money would need to be replaced from other avenues.

“It’s over $9 billion annually and almost half goes to Georgia schools and 30 percent to public safety and Medicaid,” Murphy said. “The other 18 percent left over goes to fund several other areas, and it would be hard to eliminate

Sen. Steve Gooch

Rep. Mark Hamilton

Sen. Jack Murphy

Rep. Kevin Tanner

$9 billion of funding to those programs.”

Dudgeon, Tanner, Hamilton and Duncan all said eliminating the tax would be good, but finding the revenue elsewhere

is complicated.

Gooch said the state is still the best place to do business in the country.

“People want to come to Georgia,” he said.

8 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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Young ‘change-maker’ honored for community efforts Change 4 Georgia founder receives two national awards

By ALDO NAHED aldo@forsythherald.com CUMMING, Ga. — The 13-year-old founder of a nonprofit that provides soldiers and veterans’ families with school supplies, food and personal items was honored with two national youth organization awards earlier this month.

Remington Youngblood founded Change 4 Georgia, a youth-led nonprofit that aims to inspire young people to get involved in their communities. “The difference between dreaming and real life is taking action,� said Youngblood. “If you can dream it, you can find a way to do it.�

Youngblood was recently awarded the Prudential Spirit of Community Award and the Hasbro Community Action Hero Award.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Award gives $1,000 to two students from each state at the middle and high school level and flies them and a chaperone to Washington, D.C. for three nights and four days of first-class events

and tours, including visiting monuments and meeting senators.

Youngblood, a seventhgrader at Riverwatch Middle School, was a Georgia middle school honoree.

Kathy Carpenter, principal at Riverwatch Middle School, nominated Youngblood for the award.

The award, sponsored by Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes volunteer community service by young adults. “Young people who contribute their time and talents to their communities are role models for all of us,� said Prudential Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Strangfeld. “We salute their dedication, their achievements and their spirit of community.�

Youngblood also received the Hasbro Community Action Hero Award for his latest Change 4 Georgia initiative – a new and used book drive that collects books and then donates them to libraries, Title I-funded schools and military

Remington Youngblood with singer Paula Abdul at the Hasbro ceremony. veterans and their families.

The Hasbro award ceremony was held in New York, where Youngblood along with five other volunteers were recognized.

“As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of this award, we are thrilled to recognize these young change-makers who are creating real and lasting improvements to our world,�

said Brian Goldner, president and chief executive officer of Hasbro.

Youngblood’s mother, Rebecca Youngblood, nominated him for the Hasbro award, which recognized Change 4 Georgia’s Building by Books drive. The book drive was inspired by Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal and her Read Across Georgia initiative.

Many local authors have also donated signed books to the cause.

Youngblood came back from D.C. and New York inspired, his mother said. “His head is full of ideas,� she said.

To date, Change 4 Georgia has collected more than 2,500 books and raised $92,000 in cash and in-kind donations from over 100 businesses supporting their efforts.

Youngblood is also an inspirational and motivational speaker who has received invitations to speak at over 80 venues.

He travels to elementary schools to teach children about the importance of community service and how they can help.

To contact Change 4 Georgia, email change4georgia@ gmail.com.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 9

Forsyth Central HS places fourth in electric car race QUITMAN, Ga. — Representatives of the Forsyth Central High School electric vehicle team traveled to Quitman (almost the Florida state line) to compete in the Electrathon America’s annual Run for the Peaches on May 10.

Twelve teams from Georgia and Florida battled it out in two one-hour heats to determine who could get the most laps from a single charge of the batteries.

The Electrathon America program is a national competition created to promote alternative transportation systems.

The student teams design, engineer, manufacture and race electric-powered vehicles.

Their solutions must meet rigorous criteria for size, weight and safety parameters.

The students are engaged at high levels of critical thinking, problem-solving and application of science, technology, engineering and math.

While the Forsyth Central High School teams finished fourth with 98 laps, and eighth, respectively, they performed admirably, said David

Race results: 1. Grayson High School (Ga.) took first place with 117 laps.

2. Brandon High School (Fla.) took second place with 101 laps.

3. Mill Creek High School (Ga.) took third place with 100 laps.

C. Johnson, a STEM Academy engineering teacher and robotics club advisor.

“They stayed positive, worked together embodying a true spirit of teamwork, overcame several electrical and mechanical setbacks and returned home with a long list of ideas, improvements and procedural ‘tweaks’ they plan to implement for next year’s season,” Johnson said.

The team is made up of Brad Shuford, driver of car No. 56, Seth Fowler, driver of car No. 55, David Drewke, pit crew, and Sean Cummings, pit crew. The lead mentor is Lon Shuford.

–Aldo Nahed

Forsyth Commission proclaimed May 11-17 as Food Allergy Awareness Week FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — At their May 1 meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners proclaimed May 11-17 as Food Allergy Awareness Week in Forsyth County.

Food Allergy Awareness Week recognizes that food allergies, which can be life threatening, are increasing in

prevalence and affect approximately 15 million Americans, including six million children.

Commission Chairman Pete Amos said Food Aller gy Awareness Week serves to “encourage citizens to become aware of the dangers of food allergies and how to successfully manage

food allergies to promote a safer, healthier community.”

The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team (FAACT) encourages citizens across the nation to get involved with Food Allergy Awareness.

—McKenzie Cunningham

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10 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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C’est magnifique »

Authentic French fare at Collet French Pastry and Café

By KATIE VanBRACKLE katie@northsidewoman.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – What better way to treat yourself than with a delectable French pastry? While you are at it, enjoy lunch at a delightful new spot in downtown Alpharetta, Collet French Pastry and Café.

Getting to the café can be a bit tricky. Located next to the Sabri Guven jewelry store, it faces Haynes Bridge Road, but the only entrance is off Old Milton Parkway. Finding it is worth the effort, however, as you will discover not only authentic French fare, but will enjoy making the acquaintance of a charming new neighbor – owner Catherine Taylor.

An elegant woman with a thick French accent, Taylor’s warm, welcoming manner makes the small café feel like home.

Collet French Pastry and Café is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Customers begin arriving as the sun rises to grab a warm chocolate croissant for breakfast. Then comes the lunch rush. Later in the afternoon, businessmen, students or groups of mothers with young children arrive to chat over pastries and coffee.

Others stop in for a bite after work or to pick up a cake for an evening party.

Though the hours are long, Taylor can be found behind the counter all day every day, greeting her regulars by name and getting to know new customers. She loves children and babies, and enjoys speaking with high school students who wish to practice their French.

Don’t expect service in a rush.

Remember, in France, people like to linger over their meals, talking and savoring the atmosphere. That’s just how Taylor likes it.

“I want this to be a place where people feel at home and linger for hours. Some people bring their kids here every Sunday afternoon. My customers may be American or from Europe, Japan or Argentina, but they all come to this café because they have some connection to or fond memories of France,” said Taylor.

Those who have visited a boulangerie-patisserie in France will recognize many specialties including the croque-monsieur, a grilled ham and Swiss cheese sandwich with béchamel (white sauce). Or the delicious pate en croute, a meat pie with a mixture of pork and veal marinated in white wine and herbs and baked inside puff pastry. Taylor says this recipe hails from the Champagne area of France where her grandmother grew up.

Other lunch items include soups, salads, a variety of Panini, light and flaky ham and cheese croissants and quiches containing spinach and goat cheese, chicken and mushroom or ham and cheese, all under $10.

Make sure to save room for desserts from the mouth-watering pastry case. Fruit or mousse tarts, chocolate éclairs, macaroons and Viennoiserie (puff pastries) all beckon – almost too pretty to eat. Especially stunning is the beautiful Matignon flourless

From left, chocolate “Marvelous,” Royal silky chocolate cake, white chocolate mousse.

photos by KATIE VANBRACKLE/Staff

Catherine Taylor owner of Collet French Pastry and Café. chocolate cake, which also comes in an individual serving size.

Which is Taylor’s favorite?

“Pastry goes with your mood, so it changes daily,” she admitted. “But I tend to go for anything with chocolate.”

Taylor grew up in northern France, and it was there she opened her first pastry shop with then-husband Francois Collet. After their divorce, Taylor moved with her son to the United States in 1985 to work for world-famous chef Gaston Lenôtre at a pastry shop in the French pavilion at Walt Disney World’s Epcot theme park.

Lenôtre, incidentally, was reportedly the inspiration for the character Gusteau in the 2007 animated film “Ratatouille.” A photo of Lenôtre hangs on the wall in the café.

Taylor’s culinary career took her all over the United States, including time

Tempting treats beckon. spent as an instructor at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Minnesota and in Georgia.

Francois Collet also moved to America and founded a successful wholesale business in the Atlanta area, supplying French pastries to high-end hotels and restaurants.

Now, Taylor and Collet have teamed up once more to open Collet French Pastry and Café. Collet supplies the pastries, while Taylor has the fun of finally running her “own little

place.”

“When I opened my doors in November of 2013, customers were thanking me for bringing a French café to Alpharetta, but I felt like I should be thanking them instead,” she said. “This is a dream come true for me.”

Collet French Pastry and Café 2225 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 100 Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 678-770-6066

community

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 11

David Ragan, 28, NASCAR No. 34 will be a guest at the “For the Boys” Golf Classic on May 27.

Bald Ridge Lodge hosts fifth annual golf fundraiser Event tees off at the Polo Golf Club May 27

By ALDO NAHED aldo@forsythherald.com CUMMING, Ga. — A stock car racing driver will be among the celebrities raising money for a center that gives boys stability in Forsyth County.

The fifth annual “For the Boys” Golf Classic, a fundraiser for Bald Ridge Lodge (BRL), will take place at Polo Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, May 27.

“We are very excited to announce that our featured guest for the fifth straight year is NASCAR Sprint Cup star David Ragan,” said Heidi Snarey, BRL executive director. “David is very committed to helping the boys that we serve.”

Snarey said other special guests will be announced at a later date.

The Benjamin F. Brady

Charitable Foundation is the event’s presenting sponsor.

“Our goal is to raise over $35,000 for the Bald Ridge Lodge programs,” said Mark Myers, BRL treasurer and tournament coordinator. “Proceeds from this tournament will go directly to programs that help these deserving young men”.

In addition to team competition, two contests highlight this year’s BRL Golf Classic.

Golfers can win prizes with hole-in-one and putting contests.

Local auto dealer Billy Howell Ford is offering a car as a prize for the hole-in-one competition, and three places will be awarded in the putting contest.

A boxed lunch will be provided by Chick-fil-A, with dinner courtesy of Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q. “By taking part in the ‘For the Boys’ Golf Classic, participants are supporting boys looking for a better start in life, and validating our reputation as a giving and caring com-

munity,” said Lynn Jackson, chairman.

Bald Ridge Lodge is a nonprofit stabilization and assessment center for boys located in Forsyth County.

The lodge, which opened in 2008, serves boys ages 12-17 and provides help to those who are in the custody of the Department of Family and Children Services or referred by the county juvenile court.

Through partnership with referring agencies and local volunteers, the lodge focuses on family reunification and restoration.

While at the lodge, boys receive counseling, mentoring and community support and engage in positive activities to help them re-enter society.

Contact Snarey or Barbara Kastner via email at hsnarey@ baldridgelodge.org and bkastner@baldridgelodge.org or by phone at 770-887-1220 to learn more about the golf tournament. For more information on the lodge, visit www.

BaldRidgeLodge.org.

Area communities join Mental Health Literacy initiative Mental health first aid ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Perimeter Church is initiating the Mental Health First Aid program.

Perimeter Church will train hundreds of professionals and gatekeepers working in foster care, adoption, social service, law enforcement, veteran organizations and other members of the public to improve mental health lit-

eracy – helping them identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness.

“We are thrilled to bring Mental Health First Aid to our community,” said Marti Vogt.

“This important educational effort goes a lot further than emergency intervention; it really helps people understand the shroud of fear and misjudgment facing individuals and families who experience mental illnesses and addiction. It will help rid this community of the associated

stigma and move more and more people toward recovery.”

Mental Health First Aid is an eight-hour training certification course that teaches participants a five-step action plan to assess a situation, select and implement interventions and secure appropriate care for the individual. The certification program introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems,

See HEALTH, Page 25

community

12 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Blotter: Drug take-back yields 71 pounds

Continued from Page 2

By ALDO NAHED aldo@forsythherald.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On April 26, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of CVS Pharmacy, participated in the eighth National Prescription TakeBack Initiative.

“We recovered 71 pounds of expired, outdated or unused prescription medications from Forsyth County residents using this event on this specific day,” said Deputy Doug Rainwater, a spokesman for the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office.

This was in addition to

the prescription drug locker located at the South Precinct, 2985 Ronald Reagan Boulevard, behind South Forsyth High School.

The prescription drug locker is for the disposal of prescription medications and can be accessed Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Statewide, the DEA’s event turned in 10,020 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. This amount exceeded the previous statewide total collected during the Oct. 26, 2013 take-back event, which yielded 8,283 pounds.

Local student wins scholarship WALESKA, Ga. – Katie Goodrich, a resident of Cumming and a homeschool senior, has been awarded the Reinhardt University Dean’s Scholarship. Goodrich will receive a scholarship for half of her tuition upon enrollment for the 2014-15 academic year. Her intended major at Reinhardt is business.

Reinhardt’s Dean’s Scholarship is an invitation-only competition open to the highest academic-achieving applicants.

This year, 19 high school seniors were awarded the scholarship after competing in various facets in their intended program of study at Reinhardt.

Weapons: Continued from Page 4 and yelling obscenities at each passerby. Every now

and then, I see him remove a small gun from his pocket and then put it away again, but does not point it at anyone. In light of the new firearms laws, what can the police do about this indi-

her dress.

She confronted the man, but he denied taking any video or photos of her.

She threated to call 911, so he grabbed the phone and took off running.

Deputies said an employee chased after the suspect. The employee said the suspect got into a blue F-150 with tinted windows, chrome wheels and an Atlanta Falcons logo on the tag.

Computers, checks stolen from school FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Someone stole three checks, laptops, tablets and a camera from a school, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

On May 8, an employee of McGinnis Woods School, 5380 Faircroft Drive, told deputies the theft occurred sometime during the week.

He said there were several classes out on overnight field trips and does not know all that was missing.

He got a call from his bank, and there were checks written for $980, $1,000 and $2,000.

He said these checks were stolen from one of the classrooms and later forged.

He said he is currently reviewing surveillance footage and taking an inventory to find out what is actually missing. vidual?

The new firearm legislation does nothing to limit law enforcement’s ability to detain and investigate armed persons for which they have reasonable suspicion that these persons

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Man reports seeing bloody woman in road CUMMING, Ga. — A man called 911 after allegedly seeing a woman standing in the middle of the road, according to Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

At about 1:30 a.m. May 10, deputies dispatched to 9420 Browns Bridge Road, where Pier 29 used to be, because a man said he saw a naked woman covered in blood.

He said she ran out from behind the building and stopped in the middle of the road. He said she waved her arms at him, and then ran into the woods toward the lake.

Deputies searched the area and did not find a woman or sign of any person.

Trailer stolen off church property

Man exposes himself in car CUMMING, Ga. — A woman was driving with her three children when she saw a suspicious man driving next to her, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

On May 6, a woman told deputies she was driving northbound on Ga. 400 by McFarland Parkway.

She said she looked over and saw a man driving next to her, and he was masturbating.

She said she was able to take a photo of his license plate.

Deputies said the car came back registered to an address in Cumming.

Man says home broken into 20 times

CUMMING, Ga. — Someone stole a $1,800 trailer that was being used at a church, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

The site construction manager working at Living Faith Lutheran Church, 1171 Atlanta Highway, told deputies the trailer was taken sometime between May 9 and May 12.

He said it was left locked and parked at the rear of the church, but it did not have a hitch lock attached.

He said he had left some tools inside but did not know exactly what was missing.

CUMMING, Ga. — A man came into a sheriff’s office precinct with an 11-page statement documenting 20 home breakins during the past 13 months, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

A man in the 6000 block of Vickery Creek Road told deputies the last break-in was on April 30.

He said he came home and found three smoke detectors dangling from the ceiling, but nothing was missing.

The man said he hired a surveillance company to watch his home, because “it has gotten so bad.”

have been, currently are or are about to engage in illegal activity.

In this particular example, if officers find reasonable articulable suspicion that this armed person has been acting in a disorderly fashion or they witness his disorderly behavior, Georgia law permits us to detain this person to investigate them further.

This investigation would in-

clude, amongst other aspects, a check of the person’s identity and warrant status, as well as their eligibility to possess a firearm and whether they have a weapons carry license in their immediate possession.

Officers will also determine whether probable cause exists indicating that this person has violated one or more criminal laws, and if so, determine whether an arrest should occur.

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community

Northside Hospital receives support from Colon Cancer Alliance, Komen Atlanta FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute recently received two grants from Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta affiliate.

Thanks to a grant from the CCA and the organization’s Undy 5000 5K run/walk series, Northside is able to continue to offer resources to assist patients lacking transportation through the Colorectal Cancer Transportation Assistance Program.

“Colon cancer is one of the top five cancers we diagnose at Northside Hospital. Increasing access to colorectal cancer screening and treatment for our patients is a primary goal of our Cancer Institute,” said Betty McGinty, director of Northside Hospital’s Advanced Center for GI Therapeutics.

Through the transportation assistance program, qualified patients may receive gas cards or taxi vouchers to assist with one-way or round-trip transportation within metro Atlanta to colorectal-cancer-related activities such as colonoscopy appointments, colorectal cancer treatment and medication refills.

The Northside Cancer Institute was also awarded $150,000 from Komen Atlanta for breast cancer screening and treatment, allowing the institute to continue its work to promote early detection of breast cancer.

Komen Atlanta’s grant program funds community programs that provide needed breast cancer services to women who are medically underserved and uninsured.

To be eligible for the free mammogram services at Northside Hospital, applicants must qualify for financial assistance

and reside in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Newton or Rockdale counties.

Additionally, women must be at least 35 years old, meet income level requirements, have no health insurance and provide a written order from their physician.

To learn more about the transportation program, call 404-300-2800.

To learn more about Northside’s free mammogram services, call 770-667-4400.

—McKenzie Cunningham

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 13

UNG finalizes strategic plan CUMMING, Ga. — The University of North Georgia has completed a strategic plan that outlines institutional values and goals for the future of the university that align with its mission and new strategic vision: “To be a regional and national leader for academic excellence, engagement, educational opportunity and leadership development.”

Set to go into effect this fall, the strategic plan identifies institutional priorities that impact academic programs, campus planning and community partnerships for the next five academic years.

The new strategic plan is the university’s first since being created in January 2013 from the consolidation of Gainesville State College and North Georgia College and State University.

The plan outlines five UNG values — excellence, student-focused, integrity, engagement and service —

and four strategic goals: • Promote academic excellence and innovation.

• Enhance leadership and development of the whole person.

• Expand engagement and educational opportunity.

• Build campus identity and institutional unity.

“Over the course of the summer, an implementation team will identify the institutional units with primary responsibility for implementing each component of the plan and for developing targeted operational plans,” said Dr. Patricia Donat, UNG provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “The implementation team will also identify the key performance measures that will be used to monitor progress toward meeting the objectives set forth in the plan.”

For more information, visit blog.ung.edu/strategicplanning.

—McKenzie Cunningham

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14 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Girls on the Run North Georgia fall registration open FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Girls on the Run (GOTR), a running program for girls in third through eighth grade, has opened registration for the fall 2014 season.

GOTR sessions are held over a 12-week period, meeting two days a week for one hour and 30 minutes.

All girls are encouraged to join the program regardless of previous running experience and level of physical fitness, as GOTR is a non-competitive program designed to develop and enhance girls’ social, psychological and physical competencies to successfully navigate life experiences.

The program seeks to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running.

“The 2014 fall season marks the ninth year the Forsyth/North Georgia Council of Girls on the Run has offered

the life-changing program for third- through eighth-grade girls in our region,” said Cathie Brugnoli, GOTR North Georgia executive director.

“It’s amazing to think about the more than 4,100 girls who have crossed the finish line with the confidence to make healthier choices and our community a brighter place.”

The fall program will begin on Aug. 25 and run through the week of Nov. 11.

This past school year, more than 750 girls completed the 12-week curriculum of GOTR alongside coaches, running buddies and community runners.

The program is being offered in 30 locations, and site details can be found at www. girlsontherunnorthga.org/locations/program-sites.

A registration fee of $165 is required, and scholarship assistance is provided based on a sliding scale.

In addition to the bi-weekly

after-school sessions, registration includes a T-shirt, water bottle and entry into the 5K celebratory event.

For more information, visit www.girlsontherunnorthga. org/get-involved/register-yourgirl.

—McKenzie Cunningham

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Riverwatch Middle lineman selected to all-star team CUMMING, Ga. — Vincent Murphy, a seventh-grade defensive lineman from Riverwatch Middle School, was selected to the Future Stars Georgia all-star middle school team.

The Future Stars program selects Georgia’s top middle school football players from across the state to play a team of Florida all-stars.

Team Georgia will travel to Bradenton, Florida, to play Team Florida at the renowned IMG Academy.

The event is affordable so that all can participate.

The goal of the Future Stars is to provide young athletes with athletic coaching and provide lasting memo-

ries, while educating them on life, academics, social media and college.

Team Georgia travels to Florida June 16-20. The players will spend the game week on the IMG campus being coached by top high school coaches.

Hundreds of players try out to represent their state in the Future Stars game.

In addition, Murphy was also selected to the U.S. National Development Team, or “Team USA.” The development games take place June 30-July 5 in Canton, Ohio.

For more information, visit www.futurestarsgame. com.

—Aldo Nahed

Spray pad at Old Atlanta Park opens May 24 FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The spray pad at Forsyth County’s Old Atlanta Park is scheduled to open May 24, providing a perfect place to cool off this summer.

Daily admission for the spray pad is $2 per person (1 year old and up).

Annual individual passes are available for $30 and annual family passes are available for $50.

The spray pad is slated to remain open for the season through Sept. 1.

Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

On Mondays, the spray pad is closed for maintenance and private rentals.

Old Atlanta Park, located at 810 Nichols Road, also fea-

tures a natural playground, a tot-lot for children age 6 and under, two pavilions, a mile-long walking trail and a recreation center.

For more information, call 770-781-2215 or visit www. forsythco.com/parks.

Submit your news & photos to news@forsythherald.com

FCHS student-athletes recognized for Vince Dooley Award FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Athletes for a Better World and the Georgia High School Association recognized Nathan Kistler and Elena Campfield as Forsyth Central High School’s (FCHS) representatives for the sixth annual Vincent J. Dooley Awards and Scholarships.

The athletic director of each Georgia school designates one female and one male to be the recipient of the award for their school.

Award recipients are chosen based on their distinguished individual character, outstanding teamwork and citizenship.

campfield

kistler

Kistler is an 11th-grader and a member of the FCHS cross country and wrestling teams.

Campfield, a state finalist for the award, is a 12th-grader and a member of the FCHS gymnastics team.

—McKenzie Cunningham

community

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 15

Dunn Right Dawgs win Bulldog Bash MILTON, Ga. – The 11U Dunn Right Dawgs were big winners in the Bulldog Bash on April 27 in Flowery Branch. In the front row, from left, are John Bol-

ing, Danny Vetrano, Josh Noble, Anthony Colapietro and Patrick Warren. In the second row are Matt Cleveland, Matthew LeMoyne, Parker Mad-

Pinecrest: Continued from Page 1

WHITELAKE STUDIO

Pre-kindergarten 4 teacher Heide Grieb and her class toward the end of the program.

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

Auburn University AUBURN, Ala. – Kristen Marcela of Milton and Kendall Knotts of Roswell were recently initiated into honor societies at Auburn University. Marcela was inducted into Delta Epsilon Iota and the Health Sciences Honor Society of Kappa Omicron Nu. Knotts was inducted into the National Honor Society.

Delta Epsilon Iota recognizes academic excellence and provides members with a forum for leadership, community service and valuable insight into career development issues. Kappa Omicron Nu’s members are students who are majoring in human sciences,

family or consumer sciences, have completed at least 45 semester hours in their decided major and rank in the top 25 percent of their class.

In addition, Marcela and Knotts, an entrepreneur business administration major and 2013 Roswell High School graduate, were each named to the Auburn University Dean’s List for fall semester 2013.

Also at Auburn, John Britt Easterling of Alpharetta, a graduate from Milton High School, was recently named to the all-Southeastern Conference sevens rugby team for his outstanding play during the SEC tournament in Knoxville, Tenn. As captain of his team, Easterling led Auburn to its SEC win, beating Florida in the final game 55-52. Easterling is an all-academic student athlete, who carries a 3.2 grade point average and is majoring in finance.

University of Florida GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Ellen E. Horan, a freshman engineering major from Milton, earned Dean’s List recognition from the University of Florida for the fall 2013 semester.

Columbus State University COLUMBUS, Ga. – The following local students have graduated from Columbus State University following the fall 2013 semester.

Jordan Demers of Cumming graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theater arts.

Jeremy Klein of Roswell graduated with a master’s degree in environmental science.

Bianca Street of Roswell graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies.

Scott Vash of Cumming

hymn dedicated to her. May 2 was also the seniors’ last day of high school.

At the close of mass, attendees sang Pinecrest Academy’s anthem and fight song, “Arise, O Paladins,” which was written by former Pinecrest teacher Edward Mulholland and dedicated to Christ’s Sacred Heart and to the memory of Brian Tierney, Pinecrest’s first headmaster.

A 20th anniversary slide show presentation was shown, introduced by Pinecrest junior Hannah Kelley, daughter of one of Pinecrest’s founding families, followed by a brief address by Arlene Gannon, graduated with a certificate degree in criminal justice.

Courtney Mason of Suwanee graduated with a bachelor’s in business administration degree in marketing.

In addition, Columbus State University congratulated local students for earning a place on CSU’s President’s List for the 2013 fall semester for achieving a grade point average of at least 3.80: Conner Ray of Milton, Nathan Hudson of Alpharetta, Patrick Haley of Alpharetta, Leah Martin of Cumming, Kayla Richards of Cumming, James Klausmeyer of Roswell, Jessica Johnson of Duluth, Brooke Pulaski of Suwanee and Jordan Walsh of Suwanee.

CSU also honored the following local students on the Dean’s List for earning at least a 3.6 grade point average: Daniela Volkovinsky of Alpharetta, Jordan Hughes

dux, Jake Woodliff, Julian Clements and Jack Shannon.

In the third row are coaches Kevin LeMoyne, Tom Maddux and Gordon Warren. one of the school’s original founders.

The morning culminated with the showing of a video to the tune of pop song, “Happy,” produced and directed by Pinecrest’s seventh-grade girls as part of a religion project.

“Pinecrest Academy and all of its families, present and past, are truly blessed with so many beautiful memories of our 20 years as a school,” said Anne Hamilton, Pinecrest Academy development coordinator and 20th anniversary event coordinator.

Middle and high school students then proceeded to various Mary statues on campus to participate in May Crownings, and visiting priests were treated to a breakfast reception.

–Aldo Nahed of Suwanee, Dena Kalariotes of Suwanee, Daniel Blanda of Alpharetta, Hyunji Lee of Roswell and Margaret Fordham of Cumming.

Georgia College MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – Taylor Wood of Cumming completed courses with exemplary marks and made the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Georgia College in Milledgeville.

Flagler College ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Matthew Motz of Milton and Susannah Schloss of Mountain Park were part of a group of 65 Flagler College freshmen that were honored by Omicron Delta Kappa, the college’s leadership organization, for distinguishing themselves while building their legacy at Flagler.

16 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Sponsored by

I realized that while I was in downstream management, what I am is a retailer. I had the skills, the knowledge and the passion to do what I wanted.

Janet Sherlock, chief information officer and a senior vice president at Carter’s

JOIN TODAY: 770-993-8806 • www.gnfcc.com

GNFCC Women in Business annual luncheon »

Why women are losing race to top Carter’s Janet Sherlock explains how women can seize control of career

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – For the 300-plus women at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce’s second annual Women in Business luncheon, it was a one-hour tutorial on what women must do to take charge of their careers.

The May 7 luncheon at the Atlanta Athletic Club heard Janet Sherlock, chief information officer and a senior vice president at Carter’s, the market leader for purveying children’s clothes and accessories, explain how she more or less stumbled upon the important lessons that led her to become one of the top national executives.

She did not have many female mentors along the way, because the higher she rose, the fewer women she found in the rarified air of the corporate boardroom.

Her career has been mostly in supply chain management, including a 10-year stint at Mobil Oil. “I had a degree in supply management, and a job opened up at Mobil for me.

Very quickly, I inherited 1,000 gas-convenience stores after a merger,” Sherlock said.

“When my boss was leaving, he was part of the recruiting team,” she said. “When he asked me if I would be applying for the position, I told him

yes, and that I could do a better job than he did.”

It was that kind of chutzpah that helped get her the job – and with the recommendation of her former boss.

However, she had a shock in 1997 when she was resigning to take a new job to find that she was the third-highest ranking woman executive in supply. She thought it “pathetic” that so few women had high management positions.

As Sherlock looked back on her career, she began to realize why there were so few women as the distance to “the top” narrowed.

“I realized my career was happening to me,” she said.

She began to assess her skills and her desires so that she could be shaper of her own destiny.

“I realized that while I was in downstream management, what I am is a retailer. I had the skills, the knowledge and the passion to do what I wanted,” Sherlock said.

In her career, she has found as the executives make their way up the corporate ladder, women drop out.

Sherlock noted 56 percent of women in her career drop out, while less than half of men do.

Yet the talent pool is not great enough to meet corporate needs without women. Mid- to upper management suffers from a lack of innovation, inef-

ficient leadership and stymied competitiveness, and is losing the “war” in leadership.

If half the population opts out of the talent pool in their 30s, what is the cause?

Sherlock said women do a poor job in important areas that can be summed up as selling oneself. Women have to know what skills they need and how to acquire those skills.

That is just the start. They have to then be able to demonstrate those skills. Then, they must develop a “career brand,” in which they demonstrate a willingness to pursue ever higher jobs.

Most posts do not seek out leaders, and applicants must pursue the job.

“A career is not a ladder. It is more like a jungle gym. You have to articulate yourself and your skills,” she said.

In other words, it is not enough to be good at what you do. People have to know you’re good.

Sherlock has advice that crosses gender lines in career planning: You don’t necessarily need a “career path.” Rather, continually take inventory on what drives career satisfaction.

Get exposure to different roles, careers and experiences.

The path will become more evident. And choose your own path. “Own it,” she said. “It’s not the boss’s decision.”

The biggest stumbling block for women in business is confidence. They worry if they won’t be liked if they are assertive. Also, studies show

HATCHER HURD/Staff

Carter’s Senior Vice President Janet Sherlock, right, fields questions at the Women in Business luncheon as GNFCC Director of Membership Services Deborah Lanham emcees. men overestimate their abilities to perform. Women underestimate them.

Women tend to apply for a position only if they have mastered 100 percent of the skills necessary. Men will apply if they possess only 50 percent.

“The natural result of low confidence is inaction. Men don’t let doubt stop them as much as women,” Sherlock said. “There is a confidence gap in all of us.”

Other observations are: Women get caught up in trying to “balance” work and family. “Why is parenting not a two-person job?” she asked.

Women are often disadvantaged for taking time out to have children. Nevertheless, they should know what the market value is for their skills when negotiating salary.

Finally, Sherlock says not to worry about “having it all.”

It’s impossible.

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

BusinessPosts

Topgolf Alpharetta opens doors, fairways New entertainment center along Ga. 400

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – After much hype, the new golfing entertainment venue Topgolf opened May 20 to excited golfers.

Employing about 450

people, the 60,000-square-foot location sits on 12 acres alongside Westside Parkway and boasts 102 golfing bays that allow golfers to hit balls into a large open field filled with multi-colored rings. Each special golf ball has a microchip inside that tracks it and scores

the player, turning the game of golf into more of a game and making it open to more casual golfers.

“We introduce more people to the game of golf than any other entity,” said Brian Harper, Topgolf’s director of sales.

The Alpharetta location is the company’s first foray into the Southeast. They have other locations throughout the

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 17

Topgolf opened May 20. It aims to be an entertainment center for all golfers – both casual and professional. country.

“It’s going to be an amazing summer at Topgolf,” said Topgolf Alpharetta Director of Operations Bob Dodson.

“We will be hosting golf tournaments, daytime clinics for kids, Monday evening leagues, themed costume parties and live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night on our rooftop terrace.

Even if you don’t play golf,

there will be no shortage of things to do at Topgolf.”

Topgolf estimates that it will serve 450,000 visitors in Alpharetta in its first year of operation, with a 10-year economic output in excess of $264 million.

Topgolf Alpharetta is located at 10900 Westside Parkway off Ga. 400 in Alpharetta. For more information, visit www. topgolf.com/alpharetta.

Energy-efficient houses find home in Roswell Weatherford Place near historic downtown

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Roswell is home to many things, and now it is home to some of the only Platinum LEED-certified homes in the state.

Weatherford Place, off Minhinette Drive close to historic Roswell, is a cluster of eight homes built by developer Cadmus Construction. Each home is constructed to the highest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, which includes energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

The benefits of a LEED

house are plenty, said Matthew Anthony, with Southface, an Atlanta-based company that advises on sustainable practices for both commercial and residential projects.

“It’s a huge benefit,” Anthony said. “Using locally produced products helps the local economy. Energy efficiency and water conservation helps reduce the need on our national infrastructure for energy.”

Each home is equipped with a 1,500-gallon water cistern for collecting and storing water for use around the home and property. The roads are made of a pervious material that allows rain water to seep into the cisterns as well, further reducing the need for water by up to 70 percent, said Denise Donahue, with Cadmus Construction.

“Water is our most trea-

sured, although not well respected, and fought-over resource, especially here in our tri-state region, and along with energy, our biggest supply and demand challenge,” Donahue said.

Solar energy and geothermal energy are also used to help lower, or in some cases eliminate utility fees.

The homes of Weatherford Place also incorporated materials from the old homestead that once sat on the land, reducing the amount of materials needed in the construction, a key aspect of attaining the LEED Platinum status.

“These homes show you can be LEED certified and still compete with conventional home costs,” Anthony said.

“This helps push the market.”

For more on Weatherford Place, its homes and the LEED

The homes of Weatherford Place, in Roswell, are some of the first homes to be certified LEED Platinum in the state. They are built to keep energy and water consumption at a minimum. value, visit www.weatherford-

place.com.

18 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

NEW BUSINESS »

Mei Hair Salon opens in Roswell ROSWELL, Ga. — On Valentine’s Day, Mei Wu opened her own salon.

Mei Hair Salon, 880 Marietta Highway, Suite 620 in Roswell, specializes in highlights, cut and color. Wu has 15 years of salon experience in Buckhead, Cumming and Alpharetta.

Call 770-645-8458 for more information.

Ace Hardware holds ribbon cutting in Crabapple ROSWELL, Ga. — Herb and Gwen Valazquez recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony as they officially opened a new Ace Hardware in the Silos area of Crabapple.

Roswell Mayor Jere Wood was present at the grand opening. While leading the dignitaries toward the big scissors, Herb Valazquez was selling hanging pots full of plants, a couple of bags of dirt and turning off the grill filled with sausage for the gathering.

The Ace Hardware is located at 12350 B-1 Arnold Mill Road. It is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, call 470-268-7862.

HEALTH »

New heart disease test offered in Suwanee SUWANEE, Ga. — When a patient complains about

BusinessBriefs chest discomfort, primary care doctors face the difficult task of determining if a serious condition like coronary artery disease (CAD) is to blame, or if it is a less serious condition like indigestion that can easily be treated with over-thecounter medications or a change in diet.

Studies have shown that only 10 percent of patients who visit Herman their primary care doctor with chest pain have a cardiac cause for their symptoms.

It’s a challenge that Dr. Lee Herman of Johns Creek Primary Care in Suwanee faces on a regular basis.

“As a doctor, you’re really stuck between a rock and a hard place,” said Herman.

“If you don’t take the patient’s symptoms seriously, you could be missing a very dangerous heart condition.

On the other hand, if you’re too aggressive, you might end up sending someone who has a simple case of heartburn to get a cardiovascular test that involves radiation exposure.”

There is now a new option to safely and accurately help primary care doctors and cardiologists determine whether or not a patient’s symptoms are due to obstructive CAD. It’s a convenient blood test called Corus CAD. Herman and his staff have been conducting research examining Corus CAD’s ability to help doctors make decisions about which patients need to be sent to a cardiologist for testing and which patients are at low risk for obstructive CAD. Corus CAD helped doctors change their clinical decisions for 58 percent of patients.

To learn more about Corus CAD, visit www.

CardioDx.com.

Family dentistry moves, gives free services May 31 ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, the office of Dr. Brett S. Silverman, announced the opening of their new office at 4205 North Point Parkway, Building D in Alpharetta.

The dental practice restores and enhances the natural beauty of smiles using conservative, state-ofthe-art procedures, the company Silverman said in a news release.

Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry along with the Dentistry from the Heart organization will give a day of free dentistry to those in need.

This event is on Saturday, May 31, on a firstcome, first-served basis.

The staff will perform extractions, fillings and cleanings.

Visit www.acfdga.com or call 678-389-9000 for more information.

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

FINANCE »

From left: Eddie Vides, Johns Creek branch manager, Vonda Malbrough, NFCC director, and Maria Peifer, Delta Community business development representative.

Delta Community donates to NFCC JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Delta Community’s Johns Creek branch presented North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) with a $1,000 check on April 23.

The grant will help fund the purchase of new manuals for students taking the GED test.

NFCC’s mission is to build self-sufficiency and prevent homelessness and hunger in the community by providing emergency assistance and enrichment programs. NFCC is the major provider of assistance for low-income families in North Fulton, providing a food pantry, thrift shop, emergency financial assistance and a new family enrichment program education center.

NAIFA-North Metro awarded for excellence ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors-North Metro Association received the coveted 2013 Jack E. BOBO Award of Excellence, presented by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA).

The award recognizes associations in the NAIFA federation that Espey excel in areas critical to their success and growth over a one-year period. Those areas are professional development, advocacy, membership and governance.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the national association for the work we’ve done to be successful during our past year,” said Randal Espey, president of NAIFA-North Metro. “Our goal is to provide insurance agents and financial advisors who are members with the tools they need to better serve their clients.”

NAIFA-North Metro meets at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Alpharetta on the second Thursday of each month except for June and July.

For additional information, visit www.naifanorthmetro.com.

Become a member today for as low as $175/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

BusinessPosts

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

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 19

Take some time off — it’s good for you Top 5 buyer turn-ons Are you planning on taking a well-deserved vacation this summer?

Have you got everything arranged so that while you’re away your small business will operate effectively, even if you’re not there?

Taking some time off to recharge your batteries is not only a good idea, but also a smart idea.

Most small business owners typically work a seven-day week.

While they may not be working every hour, they most likely are thinking about their small business.

What is planned for next week, how to get the next customer, hiring decisions and hundreds of other things, day-after-day, week-afterweek and month-after-month, this can all add up.

Dick Jones

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

While taking some time off may be counter-intuitive thinking for a small business owner who works 24/7, it’s a necessity to avoid burnout, stress and health issues.

Most small business owners will tell you that if they are on vacation, they can’t stop thinking about their business.

That’s OK. Some of the best new business ideas have been formulated from a beach

chair or during a round of golf. Just because you are on vacation doesn’t mean you can’t do some valuable things for your business.

Taking some time off doesn’t have to be a lavish two-week vacation.

It could be just a bunch of three- or four-day weekends.

While most people think of vacations as traveling somewhere, you actually can take time off without leaving your home.

As a hard working small business owner, there is no better time than the upcoming summer months to take some time off.

You may just come up with a great idea while having an umbrella drink on the beach that skyrockets your sales.

and turn-offs We’ve seen great improvement in our housing market over the past two years. Right now, we have rising asking prices, higher sales prices and low inventory. That’s everything you would expect to see in a recovering/improving market – except for the number of transactions.

The number of April home sales in North Fulton and Forsyth County are down approximately 15 percent over last year. With sellers asking top dollar, buyers are looking for updates, features and condition to all be there or they simply keep looking.

Here are the top turn-ons and turn-offs our team is seeing out there today: Turn-Ons Manicured landscaping (curb

Robert Strader

Local Realtor Keller Williams Realty

appeal) Hardwood floors Open floor plan (lots of light) Updated kitchen Updated master bath Turn-Offs Small back yards Dated kitchens and baths (brass fixtures) Wallpaper Road noise Small bedrooms

NewBusinessSpotlights

Animal hospital opens in Alpharetta Business: North Main Animal Hospital Opened: February Owner: Dr. Chad Bishop What: A full-service animal hospital.

We offer dental cleanings, digital dental radiology, in-house diagnostics and digital radiology, vaccines, boarding, baths and nail trims, flea and tick control products, heartworm prevention, shampoos, supplements, medications and several lines of prescription pet foods.

At an early age, Dr. Bishop developed a deep bond with animals on the farm where he grew up.

He decided to become a veterinar-

Community of beauty salons opens in Alpharetta Business: Salon Lofts Opened: January Owner: Daniel Sadd What: Salon Lofts is a community of experienced beauty professionals who enjoy all the benefits of owning a salon without the risks.

Salon Lofts offers individual suites where professional hairstylists, massage therapists, skin care and nail specialists run their own unique beauty salons.

Customers can book online with their

favorite stylist or choose from a variety of professionals that are available to service their needs.

This business is a company based out of Columbus, Ohio with more than 50 locations nationwide and two stores currently in Dunwoody and Alpharetta.

Where: 970 Northpoint Drive in Alpharetta Hours: Differs per individual stylist Phone: 404-673-2477 Email: meyler@salonloftscorp.com Website: www.salonlofts.com

ian and open his own practice in order to work with people to educate them on the best preventatives and practices to extend the life of their pet.

Dr. Bishop encourages all clients to be proactive when it comes to the health of their furry family members.

Where: 562 North Main St., Alpharetta Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Call: 770-664-9111 Email: northmainanimalhospital@ gmail.com Web: Alpharetta-vet.com Facebook: on.fb.me/1la9UYD

Snappy Kitchens opens in Alpharetta Business: Snappy Kitchens Opened: April Owner: Mary Jo Altou What: Snappy Kitchens is a renovation company that allows customers to give their kitchen an efficient and affordable facelift.

The process begins online with the Snappy Wizard, which allows clients to dream and design the components of their project complete with a working estimate.

From there, clients connect with a live professional designer to determine the best plan of action for the transformation.

Where: 2612 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 110 in Alpharetta Hours: From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; Saturday by appointment Call: 470-268-7787, 404-775-0982 Web: www.snappykitchens.com

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EDITOR’S PICKS

20 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

Send

me your event...

Ryan Pieroni

Calendar Editor ryan@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.

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC » ANGELA REIGN - A BENEFIT CONCERT TO SALUTE OUR TROOPS

Come out to the Red Clay Theater for a Benefit Concert by Angela Reign to provide support to our soldiers and their families who support them with financial assistance with food, rent, utilities and medical expenses.

8 – 9:30 p.m. May 22. 3116 Main St., Duluth. Please call 678-892-6373 or visit eddieowenpresents.com.

MIKE WILLIS AT MATILDA’S UNDER THE PINES

Matilda’s offers live outdoor music “Under the Pines” throughout the spring and summer months. Bring your lawn chairs, a picnic and even your dog for an unforgettably laid back evening of entertainment. This installment of the series features Mike Willis, a country and pop rock artist.

8:30 p.m. May 31. 377 South Main St., Alpharetta. Please call 770-7547831 or visit matildascottage.com.

STYX AND FOREIGNER IN CONCERT

Spawned from a Chicago basement in the early ‘70s, STYX would eventually transform into the virtual arena rock prototype by the late ’70s and early ’80s, due to a fondness for big rockers

CELEBRATE AMERICA 5K/10K

A 5k/10k presented by the Chattahoochee Woman’s Club in honor of Memorial Day. This fast and flat race will begin and end in the parking lot of the New Balance store. 7:30 a.m. May 28. 7300 North Point Parkway #104b, Alpharetta. Please visit awesomealpharetta.com.

and soaring power ballads. Over the course of their 38-year career they’ve released 15 studio albums, six best-of compilations and four live albums, garnering eight Top Ten singles. STYX has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. 8 p.m. May 24.

At Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. Please call 678-297-0102 or visit vzwamp.com.

ART »

Patrick Arthur will be coming to The Velvet Note as a part of the venue’s “Young Guns” series. Arthur has received many awards and honors for his musicianship. 7 and 9 p.m. May 25. 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. Please call 855-5835838 or visit thevelvetnote.com.

to a twisted labyrinth of conflict and hilarity. Filled with Wilde’s effervescent wit and humor, this cherished play is sure to bring laughter and merriment to its audiences. Show times vary. May 23-25, May 30 – June 1. 10700 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek.

Please call 770-772-0762 or visit performingartsnorth.org.

EVENTS »

ROSWELL FINE ARTS ALLIANCE MEMBERS SHOW

The Roswell Fine Art Alliance announces their spring members show, hosted by Jackson Accura and on display for viewing and purchase in the showroom lobby. May 17 – June 7. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 10900 Alpharetta St., Roswell.

Please call 770-650-4000 or visit rfaa. org.

PEACHTREE HILLS FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

The Third Annual Peachtree Hills Festival of the Arts will bring 125 artists to the shady, tree-lined neighborhood. The two-day festival will be held in and around the Peachtree Hills Park and Recreation Center, including food, acoustic music and activities for kids. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. May 31 – June 1. 308 Peachtree Hills Ave. Northeast, Atlanta.

Please call 404-873-1222 or visit peachtreehillsfestival.com.

THEATER »

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT AT

GUITARIST PATRICK ARTHUR

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST’

Performing Arts North at the Dancing Goat Theatre presents “The Importance of Being Earnest,” a comedic play by Oscar Wilde. The story follows the harrowing romances of two hapless gentlemen, Algernon and Jack, who, having grown tired of their restrictive lifestyles, create a series of elaborate lies that lead

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

With vendors, face painting, hay rides, a petting zoo, crafts for kids, strawberry cook-off, strawberry picking and more, this event will be a great day for the whole family. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 24. Warbington Farms, 5555 Crow Road, Cumming.

Please call 770-380-2920 or visit warbingtonfarms.com.

WILD EDIBLES WORKSHOP

The program will begin in the downstairs classroom with a very brief slide program and general discussion of wild edibles found in the Chattahoochee River Corridor and the piedmont and mountain regions of Georgia. Returning to the upper deck the group will closely examine an edible or two, followed by lunch. After lunch there will be a walk through the grounds of the Lodge and the Lutra Loop Trail seeking wild edibles. This will be a leisurely walk. Reservations are required. 9 – 3:30 p.m. May 24.

8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek.

Please call 678-538-1200 or visit nps. gov.

TEENBOSS WORKSHOP

The Roswell Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, will host the TeenBoss Workshop, a 90-minute entrepreneurial seminar for teens. Tommy Johns, an Atlanta business owner, will be leading the workshop which helps young people in grades 6-12 to explore the benefits of starting their own businesses. The seminar covers such topics as goal setting, choosing the type of business

CASKS FOR A CURE

A fundraising event at Jekyll Brewing benefitting Great Strides of the Cystic Fybrosis Foundation. Come enjoy a beer for a good cause. And of course, music and food will accompany the event. 5 – 9 p.m. May 22.

2855 Marconi Drive, Alpharetta.

Please visit jekyllbrewing.com.

ROSWELL REMEMBERS MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

An event in honor of those who have served, the Roswell Memorial Day Ceremony will feature a military program followed by a BBQ picnic. 10 a.m. May 26.

38 Hill St., Roswell. Please call 770-640-3253 or visit roswellmemorialday.com

that best suits the entrepreneur, developing a business plan, some of the keys to success, and marketing advice. Space is limited, so call and register early. 2:30 p.m. May 28. 115 Norcross St., Roswell. Please call 770640-3075.

HONORING THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN AND WOMEN OF WWII

The American Heritage Society of Georgia, Inc. presents another special historical and educational program for the communities of North Fulton: “Honoring the Tuskegee Airmen and Women of WWII” as part of Understanding the Foundations of America Series. 7 – 8:30 p.m. May 29. 2 South Main St., Alpharetta.

Please call 770-653-6821 or visit americanheritagesocietyofgeorgia. com.

RACES AND BENEFITS » SERV RACE FOR ONE MILLION MEALS 5K

Join us for the inaugural SERV International Race for ONE Million Meals 5k. The race will start and finish at the historic Marietta Square.

This family friendly race is open to all racers and walkers, as well as participants with. There will be a Tot Trot for the little ones too. The post-race party will include great musical artists and games for all ages. Prizes will be given to top age group finishers. 5k participants will receive a race T-shirt and Tot Trotters will receive medals. 8 a.m. May 31.

Marietta Square, Marietta. Please call 770-516-1108 or visit active.com or servone.org.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 21

Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014

Milan Eye Center welcomes eye cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kiran Sajja Milan Eye Center is excited to announce the arrival of Dr. Kiran Sajja, a Board-Certified ophthalmologist specializing in functional and cosmetic eyelid and facial surgery. Dr. Sajja has a unique blend of experience, compassion and artistry that he shares with each and every patient. With the addition of Dr. Sajja, Milan Eye Center will expand the unsurpassed level of care and services provided to the Atlanta community.

Dr. Sajja cares for patients with a wide variety of conditions, including eyelid droopiness, eyelid bagginess, and tearing.

Eyelid ptosis or “eyelid droopiness” is most often related to stretching or detachment of the muscle used to open your eyes. Over time, this condition can interfere with your vision resulting in a decreased field of view or overall dimming of your vision.

Common complaints often include needing more light to read, difficulty driving, and headaches. Eyelid ptosis is often associated with a tired or disinterested appearance. This condition can be corrected with a quick, minimally-invasive outpatient surgical procedure which is often covered by your medical insurance.

Eyelid dermatochalasis or “eyelid bagginess” is related to stretching and thinning of the eyelid skin. This often affects both the upper and lower eyelids giving a puffy or wrinkled appearance. At times, the excess skin can rest on or over your eyelashes interfering with your vision. Other common complaints include eyelid redness or itchiness, tearing, or headache. Women

insurance.

In addition, Dr. Sajja has considerable experience in cosmetic concerns of the eyelids and face employing advanced surgical techniques and facial injectibles, such as Botox®, Juvederm® XC, Belotero®, and Restylane®. Dr. Sajja will perform a detailed evaluation

often note difficulty applying and maintaining eye make-up, such as mascara, eyeliner or eye shadow. This condition can be significantly improved with an easy outpatient surgical procedure. An evaluation with Dr. Sajja would determine if the procedure is covered by your medical insurance.

Tearing or “watery eyes” can be separated into two main issues: producing too many tears or not effectively draining the tears away. Common complaints include blurred vision, itchiness, redness and discharge. During an evaluation with Dr. Sajja, he will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes and your tear drainage system to determine the possible causes of your watery eyes. Based on your symptoms and examination, Dr. Sajja will discuss a treatment regimen including diet, medication and surgical intervention. Many procedures are performed in the office with little to no down time; and are often covered by your medical

and provide recommendations to allow you to achieve a balanced, youthful and energetic appearance.

Dr. Sajja will be joining Milan Eye Center on June 9th.

Call 678-688-4575 for more information on Dr. Sajja and his procedures.

Milan Eye Center has four

convenient locations around Atlanta: Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, and Buford.

Milan Eye Center is a premier ophthalmology practice and is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals including Northside Forsyth, Northside Cherokee, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

Eye Drop Schedule.

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The surgeons at Milan Eye Center have taken another step towards the modernization of cataract surgery, with the launch of our new App - ‘Easy Drops’.

‘Easy Drops’ aims to simplify eye drop regimens, educate the patient and promote better outcomes through better compliance.

6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 325 Johns Creek 970 Sanders Rd, Suite 100 Cumming Learn more at

www.MilanEyeCenter.com

Call today for a consultation

678-688-4575

22 May 21, 2014

Sponsored Section • EMPTY NEST

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald

There’s no need to go it alone – More beneficial than many think let Senior Helpers help Community Gardens »

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(NAPSI)—People around the U.S. are increasingly bringing the “green” back to their neighborhoods. In addition to initiatives like Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) and environmental education through the schools, residents are starting to focus much of their attention on building longlasting landmarks such as community gardens.

The American Community Gardening Association estimates that there are already 18,000 community gardens throughout the country, and for good reason. According to Minnesota nonprofit Green Matters, community gardens decrease crime in urban areas with little vegetation, increase the value of properties in the surrounding area and can help locals save money on food through gardengenerated produce. Instead of driving to a distant supermarket for produce or a faraway park for some green space, it’s just a matter of walking over to the nearby garden.

The health benefits associated with these gardens show how important open garden spaces can be to otherwise “greenless” urban environments. In 2013, University of Utah researchers found that residents who get involved with community garden projects have recognizably lower body mass indexes than nongardeners, with less chance of being overweight.

Not only that, fresh produce from community gardens is less likely to

be contaminated with pesticides than other kinds and can be used to teach kids about better nutrition.

Organizations such as GrowNYC try to make neighborhood gardens more prevalent. It has already helped establish more than 70 community gardens in New York City, one made with recycled beauty waste with the help of Garnier and recycling company TerraCycle. Initiatives like these not only help establish community gardens in areas with otherwise sparse vegetation, but get the public involved, increase environmental awareness, and educate the community at the same time.

Assistant Director Lenny Librizzi shared these tips for getting involved in a community garden.

• Look Online—Well-organized community gardens usually have websites or Facebook groups.

• Visit—Take a walk through nearby gardens to see which one you’re most drawn to.

• Get Your Hands Dirty—Being a member of a community garden is about more than just growing vegetables. All members should expect to help with common areas, composting, watering, or volunteering time.Ê • If At First You Don’t Succeed— Each garden has different rules and management systems. If you don’t feel like you’re gelling with the group, try out another one or consider starting your own.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 23

Sponsored Section

Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014

Are you ready for Summer? Is your car too?

By RICK HUNTER VP Sales & Operations Wood & Fullerton woodfullerton.com Where will your car take you this summer? Not only is it part of your daily routine (work, shopping, soccer games, ballet, etc….) but it will probably take you out to dinner, the mountains or maybe even the beach for the weekend. All of those miles in the summer heat will take a toll on your car. The best way to make sure your car is ready for trouble free driving for all of your summer fun is a complete inspection and a little preventative maintenance.

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Brakes: Sure it’s important that your car runs down the road, but it’s even more important that it stops properly. A complete brake inspection would start with a test drive while listening and feeling for any unusual sounds or pulsations or pulling to one side while braking. Once in the shop, the technician will remove the wheels to verify the condition of the brake pads

and/or shoes as well as all of the other brake components and hardware. The drums and/or rotors should also be measured and compared to the specification for your car.

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24 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

opinion

Submit your opinions to news@forsythherald.com

#Graduating So, I have been thinking about this one for a while. My youngest and last child living at home is graduating from Milton High and going off to school in the fall. It is going to be quite a change for his mom and me when he takes off this August.

I have been trying to decide what I want to say to these graduating seniors. My default is to avoid all the clichés – which is impossible – and everywhere I turn, I find nuggets of wisdom from really smart people – William Faulkner, the Dali Lama and Ray Bradbury, to name just a few.

The real problem I have is that these kids graduating right now are living in a world that is so far beyond my grasp and frame of reference that adults attempting to give them specific advice is a stretch.

Their world has changed so much, and I know so little about it. But maybe, just maybe, I can help them avoid some traps, bypass by a few snakes baring apples and help them not do a few things the hard way.

So graduates, here goes…

You will always be selling, whether you realize it or not.

From our Facebook page This photo, a collage representing the senior pranks pulled at South Forsyth High School, has been making the

Ray Appen

Publisher ray@northfulton.com

You are either selling yourself to some girl or guy you want to meet, or to a friend from whom you want to buy Bonnaroo tickets. You’re selling that teacher whose class you must pass to graduate. You’re selling your parents almost every minute of every day for something.

The rest of your life you will be selling. Know this. Your life improves when you are good at selling.

The absolute worst and least successful way to sell is remotely via anything digital – email, texting, Instagram, Whatsapp, Twitter and whatever comes next. The best and most successful way is always going to be face to face. Setting yourself apart from the other thousands of kids who want the same thing you do will help you get what you want, but digital interaction makes you like everyone else. It doesn’t social media rounds .

South's pranks included soap and water sliding in the halls, advertising the principal's car for sale and inappropriate language on a sign hanging outside of the school.

set you apart.

No one owes you squat – not a passing grade, not a job, not a second chance, not a high wage, not admission into grad school, not a warning instead of a ticket, not an education, nothing. Your parents may behave like they think they owe you an education or a nice Jeep, but they don’t.

That support is yours to lose, so don’t take it for granted and treat them with respect.

In every aspect, the “presentation” is often as important if not more important than the substantive part. If you hold an auction at the Ritz, people expect to pay more than if the auction is on the cul-du-sac. If you dress like you own a big company, people will assume that maybe you do. If you seem to know what you are doing, they will usually think you do.

You have a very simple choice that will have a huge impact on everything the rest of your life. In any situation, you can be part of the solution or be part of the problem. You choose one. “Let me figure out how I can make this work” is what your boss wants to hear instead of “we can’t do that.”

Honor and integrity are more precious than gold – in business and in personal life.

A former CEO once said his senior vice president would mark his golf ball and then put the ball back on the turf in front of the marker (closer to the hole) every time they played. Golf is a game of honor. The CEO said

his senior vice president never knew why he was fired shortly thereafter. You are either honest or you are not, and little lies are as bad as big ones. In life, put your ball behind the mark – not in front. It makes all the difference.

Jobs. Follow up a job interview with an email of thanks that day and send a written (snail mail) thank you off as well. Then, follow up before the end of the week to get a status update and continue to do so until the hiring decision has been made. If you don’t do this, the person with the same qualifications but who follows up four or five times will get your job instead of you – guaranteed.

Help others. Selfishness and self-centeredness are the cause of most unhappiness in this world. If you want to be happy, help other people around you. You will be blown away how much that improves your own life in many different ways. Try it.

Your phone is a thief. It is stealing your time and rob-

bing priceless pieces of your life from you. Don’t lose your precious time to that stinking piece of hardware. It is the enemy.

Everything goes in cycles.

Never ever assume that the good times will last forever.

Be prepared to weather the bad times, but know that they too will pass. Try hard to save up at least a year’s reserve of expense money.

School. I often hear from very bright kids about how broken the school system is or how easy it is to circumvent the guidelines. What you get out of something – like school – is determined by what you put into it. If you want knowledge, you can have it, but like everything else in life you have to work for it. Everything has a cost. Nothing is free.

If you have time, search for these YouTubes: “Steve Jobs Stanford,” “David Foster Wallace Water,” “Charles Swindoll Attitude,” “Mike Rowe Life Advice” and finally “Gary Turk Look Up.” It’s all about choices. Good luck. God speed.

Letter to the editor »

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Words of advice for you graduating seniors Understand the words opportunity and advancement. It is almost certain that your early opportunities in life for advancement will come from the lowest of jobs. Perform these menial tasks with a vigor and enthusiasm that impresses yourself. Because at the end of the day, if you have impressed yourself and have given your full measure of worth, you will be light years ahead of any of your competitors.

Never try to misrepresent yourself as an expert. Those that have experience will see through that, and you will lose their trust.

Instead, readily admit that you don’t know something with a simple statement, “I don’t know the answer to that, but I will find out for you and be back to you today.” Humility and integrity go a long way in this life.

It is natural to build a box around yourself and stay comfortably within its confines. For most of us, the box is small, and the ventures outside of the box are not that scary. Go outside the box! (That crystallized for me in a sermon this year from a 14-year-old during his spring break Sermon on the Beach. He is way outside any box.)

Almost every person you encounter has something to offer. Find it and decide if you

want to be like that yourself. If you do, adopt it.

Common courtesy and respect are becoming rarer these days, but are still cornerstones in life. They will be integrated into the fabric of the highest decision-makers, and they will recognize and appreciate it in a young person.

Malcolm Gladwell wrote in his book “Outliers” that 10,000 hours is the magic number to really become proficient in a particular area.

He cited Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and the Beatles as examples. Find what you love and put in 10,000 hours in as short a time as possible and become an expert. For he who gets there first, has an open highway.

You ain’t learning nothing when you’re talking. The smartest people you’ll meet are most often the quietest in the room. If you’re smart, be smart enough to not show it off.

And one last piece of advice – marry well!

Life is one rough and tough road to haul.

There will be more challenges and angst than you can possibly imagine. A true soul mate will make the journey through all of those trials and tribulations pure joy!

– Randy Vaught and his family live in Milton.

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Arrests:

Health:

Continued from Page 2

Continued from Page 11

May 5 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of cocaine, possession of a scheduled I controlled substance, possession of drug related items, and loitering. ►► Tyler Allen Bartlett, 23, of Fieldgate Ridge Drive, Cumming, was arrested May 9 on Pilgrim Mill Road in Cumming for possession of heroin and possession of a scheduled III controlled substance.

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | May 21, 2014 | 25

builds understanding of their impact and overviews common treatments. Thorough evaluations in randomized controlled trials and a quantitative study have proved the CPR-like program effective in improving trainees’ knowledge of mental disorders, reducing stigma and increasing the amount of help provided to others.

“We welcome Marti Vogt’s involvement and enthusiasm in the Mental Health First Aid community,” said Linda Rosenberg, president and

chief executive officer of the National Council for Behavioral Health, the organization that brought Mental Health First Aid to the United States in 2008.

“We know they will have a great impact on the mental health communities throughout [the area], and will be key players in improving mental health literacy nationwide,” Rosenberg said.

In its pilot year, the program was introduced in nearly 20 states and more than 40 communities nationwide.

The National Council certified Vogt to provide the Mental Health First Aid program in October 2010 through an instructor certification course

in Atlanta, and all the sites across the nation that replicate this program maintain strict fidelity to the original, proven program.

Mental Health First Aid originated in 2001 in Australia under the direction of founders Betty Kitchener and Tony Jorm. To date, it has been replicated in 20 other countries worldwide, including Hong Kong, Scotland, England, Canada, Finland and Singapore.

For more information or to participate in a Mental Health First Aid training in Johns Creek on June 21, contact Perimeter Church, 9500 Medlock Bridge Road.

This eight-hour course

Nelda Freeman, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away May 4, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Jeffrey Kingcaid, 41, of Cumming, passed away April 29, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Sarah A. Montgomery, 91, of Marietta, passed away May 13, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Charles Augustus French, 98, of Alpharetta, passed away May 5, 2014.

Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Rhonda Baker Land, 42, of Gainesville, passed away May 11, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

provides tools needed to identify a mental health crisis until professional help is available.

– Staff

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ForsythHerald.com

DEATH NOTICES Louis Azrak, 70, of Roswell, passed away May 9, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Lester Brown, 58, of Alpharetta, passed away April 29, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Lawrence Gene Cordell, 57, of Dawsonville, passed away May 8, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Vera L. Cowart, 99, of Cumming, passed away May 11, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Margina Lee Davis, 47, of Ranger, passed away May 10, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Charles Dickey, 87, of Johns Creek, passed away May 5, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Dean Green, 89, of Roswell, passed away May 8, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Lena Mae Dockery, 98, of Milton, passed away May 4, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Ann Hedden, 74, of Roswell, passed away May 11, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Betty Jean Dunton, 93, of Atlanta, passed away May 2, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Lt. Col. Thomas C. Embrey, USMC, Retired, passed away May 3, 2014.

Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

William Johnston, 72, of Canton, passed away May 11, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Lenka Strika, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away May 12, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Robert R. Lee, 63, of Suwanee, passed away May 09, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Wyoma Donna Patrick, 72, of Demorest, passed away May 11, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Eula Mae Yarbrough Stancil, 91, of Cumming, passed away May 11, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Marguerite Tate Liddic, 91, passed away May 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Dean Power, 60, of Roswell, passed away May 6, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Willie Jo Strevel, 88, passed away May 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Scott Lively, 30, of Atlanta, passed away May 6, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Thomas Hartman, 91, of Woodstock, passed away May 7, 2014.

Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Sylvia Nelson, 98, of Alpharetta, passed away May 2, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Stephanie Speller, 60, of Alpharetta, passed away April 30, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Jo Ann Buice Martin, 76, of Cumming, passed away May 10, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Nell Lewis Mason, 93, of Hinesville, passed away May 6, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Kimberly McCusker, 45, of Alpharetta, passed away April 27, 2014.

Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Katherine McWalters, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away May 8, 2014. Arrangements by Georgia Funeral Care.

Agnes Mills, 79, of Cumming, passed away May 9, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

James Watson, 65, of Cumming, passed away May 3, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Edwin O’Quinn, 90, of Woodstock, passed away May 9, 2014.

Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Shelia Raney, 56, of Roswell, passed away May 10, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Russell Lee Smith, 55, passed away May 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Hazel Williams, 96, of Milton, passed away May 9, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Equipment Operator

The City of Suwanee is accepting applications for a fulltime equipment operator I. This position handles various semiskilled manual labor functions to include streets, utilities and grounds maintenance. Pay: $14.64 hourly. For more information and to apply, go to: www.suwanee.com Equal Opportunity Employer Drug Free Workplace

Air Conditioning Air Plus Co Inc. 24/7 Service Service / Installation Affordable Rates Residential / Commercial Will Beat all written estimates 30 yrs. exp.

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

28 | May 21, 2014 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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

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