Best of the Best, Appen Media Group at AFCP by Appen Media Group

Best of the best Spring 2015

Appen Media Group wins 28 awards from AFCP

Appen Media named ‘Best of the Best’ at AFCP By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com SAVANNAH, Ga. – For the second year in a row, Appen Media Group returned from its annual Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) Conference April 8-11 laden with awards including “Best of the Best” for highest number of individual awards. This year’s conference at Savannah’s Marriott Riverfront saw staff winning honors for writing/commentary, design, photography and ad design. There were 72 national award categories in all with 1,250 submissions to the judges. Appen Media took home 28 awards, including Best of the Best and 12 first place awards. That was almost 17 percent of all firsts awarded. “The quality of the graphics and editorial content in our member publications continues to raise the bar every year as indicated in our Best of the Best Awards Competition,” said AFCP Executive Director Lauren Colburn. “Appen Media continues to lead the charge when it comes to maintaining a serious focus on quality. “Their impressive domination in this year’s competition demonstrates truly the Best of the Best that community papers have to offer,” she said. Once again, Appen Media was led by senior graphics designer David Brown, who won eight individual awards. His first place award for Best Single Ad – Fitness, Fashion or Beauty elicited this comment from the judges: “Compelling use of an image to draw you in combined with clear typography and great use of white space.” Brown’s recognition included the $300 prize for the best submission in the Advertising Design Contest for Veterinarian ads. Production/Newsroom Manager A.J. McNaughton won the $200 second prize. Publisher Ray Appen won three column and opinion-writing awards, including two of three winning selections in Best Original Writing – Column. Of the first place column “Where Does Your Kindness Reside,” the judges said, “This article reminds us of the basic life lesson to simply ‘be kind.’ The anecdotes are not only real and touching, but also well written and descriptive. We commend Ray Appen for reaching us on a social, emotional and moral level!” Executive Editor Hatcher Hurd scored two national firsts for Community Service /Editorial for his coverage of the Johns Creek Memorial Walk at Newtown Park and Best Original Writing – Opinion for his article, “Johns Creek Council Taking Can-do Approach.” The judges said, “The writer took a clear stance to inform the reader of an important matter in the community.” Appen Media’s Rookie of the Year, Kathleen Sturgeon, took second place in the Best Original Writing – News Article category for her coverage of political shenanigans in Forsyth County. Sturgeon began her career at Appen as an intern. Her article, “Leaked Documents Show Nonemployees Receive Health Benefits,” was typical of her coverage of an ongoing story. Other Appen winners include Lead Graphics Designer Suzanne Pacey, who picked up three awards for Northside Woman. Susan Hernandez won for Best Presentation of Digital Edition or Flip Book, and Abby Breaux won a first and a second for Best Original Photography Used in Color Ad. The judges said of her first place photo, “Yum, this ad makes you hungry!”

2015 Best of the Best Awards: Winning Entries List Andrew E. Shapiro Award Category – A cancer awareness promotion: • Third Place, Northside Woman Best Online Presentation of Digital Edition or Flip Book: • Third Place, Appen Media Group Best Online Presentation of News Content: • First Place, Appen Media Group Best Original Editorial Photography Used in an Ad – Color: • Second Place, Northside Woman • First Place, Northside Woman Best Original Writing – Column – A column written to inform or educate the reader: • Third Place, Revue & News • First Place, Revue & News Best Original Writing – Opinion: • Third Place, Revue & News • First Place, Johns Creek Herald Best Original Writing – News Article: • Second Place, Forsyth Herald Community Service/Editorial: • First Place, Johns Creek Herald Best Single Ad – Color – Ads more than 12 inches in depth on newsprint: • Third Place, Forsyth Herald, • Second Place, Northside Woman Best Single Ad – Color – Ads more than 12 inches in depth on gloss: • First Place, Northside Woman Fitness, Fashion or Beauty – Best Single Ad – Full color on newsprint: • Second Place, Northside Woman • First Place, Northside Woman Creative Headline or Ad Copy Used in an Advertisement: • Second Place, Northside Woman Best Cover Design – Newsprint Booklet/Magazine: • First Place, Northside Woman Best Cover Design on Newsprint, Tabloid/Broadsheet: • First Place, North Atlanta Business Post Self-Promotion – Rate Card: • Third Place, Appen Media Group Self-Promotion – Awards: • First Place, Revue & News Self-Promotion – Own Publication: • First Place, N. Atlanta Business Post Most Improved, Publications with 10-25 percent editorial content: • Second Place, Lifestyles Answer Book General Excellence, Publications with a minimum 26 percent editorial content: • Honorable Mention, Northside Woman Advertising Design Contest – To design a series of ads for a veterinarian: • Second Place, A.J. McNaughton • First Place, David Brown Best of Show, for the most overall points earned with winning entries in all categories: • First Place, Appen Media Group

Ray Appen: Publisher

never wanted to be a member of any club who would have me as a member so being commended for some of my columns takes me a bit out of my comfort zone. However, when we went to our association annual meeting and were recognized by our peers I was proud of having contributed to the recognition that our whole staff received and so richly deserves. And if my columns can play whatever small role in making that happen, well, that is a club that I will embrace. I am not sure what my background prepared me to be or do. I went to FSU for many years – starting in 1972 and leaving sometime in the mid 80’s. I lived in the Williams Building (English) and Bellamy Building (Social Sciences). The time was one of the happiest of my life. I spent over a decade of simply learning and was quite conscious of that each day. Yes I threw a few Frisbees on Landis Green and partook of a beer here and there but it was the idea of simply spending time with a goal of learning something – of being inspired by what I was studying that was the fuel that I burned each day, day in and day out. So I think that is what I write about in some way when I do write. I write about what I know and what I have learned and the people who I spend time with on this planet.

I am not a professional journalist or columnist like Hatcher or the other professionals on staff who have to write every day and every week whether they are “inspired” or not. That is the mark of the real professional. I get off easy and only write when I have something to say. And I like being able to do that thru the newspapers and our websites because most of you don’t “talk back” to me when I am trying to teach or share something about life that I think is important to share - unlike other audiences such as , say, my kids. But actually I think they do listen even when it doesn’t feel like it. Your local newspaper staff walked off with 28 of like 70 something awards at this association meeting and I don’t say that to brag.

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Thrid Place: Best Original Writing- Column - Written to Inform or Educate the Reader The Bid document will be available online Thursday, May 1, 2014, at our website, www.alpharetta.ga.us choose the Bids Online tab. The bid opening will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2014 at 10:00 AM at the City of Alpharetta, Finance Department, 2970 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009.

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

OPINION

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“You is beautiful. You is smart. is important.” – from For You more information, please contact Abby Shipp of the the City movie Help” of“The Alpharetta’s Finance Department at 678-297-6052 Sometimes what we write or viahas email at purchasing@alpharetta.ga.us. actually a real impact Publisher on people. I heard back from ray@northfulton.com a number of readers after I wrote a column in which I asked people to be kind and man. The clerk then quickly consider the silent struggles glanced down and away when others may be experiencing. his gaze crossed the path of Your feedback makes what I Carl’s eyes. do for a living worth it. Here is It was raining hard outa link to that column (http:// side that cold night when Carl bit.ly/1hPHd2d ), and what drove off. follows are some additional He passed the wet homeless thoughts. guy walking down the sidewalk In the single-digit weather eating his hotdog. Then he rewe had last week, my son Carl alized that his headlights were was at a convenience store still off. at night and noticed a guy in Sometimes I feel like life dirty, soiled clothes slip a hot for many people must feel dog into his backpack and like walking around in endthen walk out of the store. Out of the corner of his eye, less circles – slowly, with no direction, no destination, not Carl glanced over at the clerk a whole lot to look forward to. who, out of the corner of his I can’t imagine what that must eye was watching the ragged

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feel like. But I should. Early yesterday morning as I was waiting in the parking lot of my gym before I went inside to work out, I spotted a car approaching. It was still dark out, and all I saw were headlights. As the car drew closer, I noticed that it looked like it had been in an accident – or several. The side of the car was scraped and dented and at least one of the windows was actually plastic held on with tape. The car used to be white but was now dirty and looked like it has been driving through mud. It circled the parking lot then parked behind me some distance. No one got out. I was concerned and somewhat worried that the driver of this car was up to no good.

What they do with the few hours in each day always amazes me. We never have enough time. We never have enough resources. And you just never get ahead in this business. But what you do is step up to the plate every day and swing as hard as you can at each pitch and run like hell - every person on staff – every time. That’s what we do.

When I went into the gym, I mentioned to the attendant that she may want to have someone check out the “sketchy” car in the parking lot. She looked alarmed and asked me what the car looked like. “That’s a homeless family,” she said, “that comes a couple times a week and we let them clean up here.” I went down to start my workout, but before I could get to the door, I stopped cold in my tracks. Later that day, I received a text from the attendant. “I gave your gift to the mother in her car,” she wrote. “She was incredibly grateful and asked me to please thank you so much.” The message in my previous column was that, “Everyone

you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind.” But that’s not all. We need to understand the context within which our kindness resides. The context is that “it takes a village,” but you aren’t really in one until you realize that the other people in that village are your flock. That you are the shepherd and your staff is to protect them – not you. Please pay it forward. Anything. Anything at all. Every day. That clerk did. Be that clerk. I will swing by that convenience store tonight and give whoever is at the register enough money to pay for a hot dog and not explain. He won’t have a clue unless…well unless, he is that shepherd who glanced away from Carl’s eyes.

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I say it because I want you to understand how hard they work to bring you our newspapers and cover your story, your kid’s story, and “our community” story. They truly are amazing and when you have a chance to tell them that you appreciate what they do, please tell them.

northfulton.com | Milton Herald | January 29, 2014 | 19

Where does your kindness reside?

BASEMENT? or CRACKED

8 | December 25, 2014 | Revue & News | revueandnews.com

This is what we do FOUNDATION? An old friend from the Miami Herald emailed me a story about a Washington Post (and former Miami Herald) photojournalist who has died while covering the Ebola outbreak in Liberia. His name was Michel du Cille, and the story was written by another ex-Miami Herald reporter, author and one of du Cille’s contemporaries, Joel Achenbach. As I read what Achenbach wrote, I lost focus on my surroundings and fell face first into this story. I began to suspect that the story provided an answer to something that I have been trying to get my arms around for quite a while. That is, we – you and I – are on the verge of losing something vital because of all the changes in our traditional news reporting organizations and the environment in which it functions. The news mission, the resources dedicated to reporting the news, the standards upon which our news reporting has been based and, sadly, the demand for the news as we have known it, has changed. From this writer’s perspective, the demand for news is under siege and in great peril. I have always said that without the traditional news infrastructure, we would not have had the Watergate investigation. Nixon would not have resigned from office, and who knows what else would have (or have not) occurred with the butterfly effect. But the more I read the story about du Cille, I began to realize that his story is one about a canary in a coal mine. This canary not only plays a major role in the lives of the miners – it warns them of danger and in some cases keeps them alive – but it is also a beautiful animal with radiant colors, flight and song. Not everything about the canary is a life-and-death issue; the canary is also about beauty and small things of life. The state of journalism today is not too dissimilar to that of the canary in the mine. To a degree, both have fallen out of favor and have been replaced with alternatives. We’re not going to see many more Michel du Cilles, because in part, the organizations that support people and efforts such as his are no longer willing to pay for it. In some cases, they can’t pay for it. There is diminishing demand for what du Cille did. There is less trust, less empathy, less connection. And we are and will be so much diminished by this loss. Yes, we’re still in the same mine, but the canary is not going to be there to protect or entertain

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going to be there to protect or entertain us much longer unless Pls Call for Quote something 678-250-4470 changes. us much longer unless something changes. Michel du Cille won three Pulitzers for his photojournalism and died while reporting on Ebola in Liberia. He went where there was conflict, war, pain and human suffering and recorded that for us. We weren’t there but he was, and he brought what he saw to us because we needed to see it. His Pulitzers were for his reporting on a natural disaster, crack houses in Miami and the plight of veterans at Walter Reed Hospital. But he also shot countless stories on small things and average people too. When questioned why he constantly risked his life in the Sudan, Afghanistan, Liberia and all the other war-torn zones around the world, his response was simply, “That is what I do.” That is what he did, and we all are the better for it. What I have never been able to write or describe is what we lose when we lose people like du Cille or the organizations that support people like him. The story that Achenbach wrote successfully conveys what I could not. Please take the time to read it. It’s important. And if it changes your opinion of the “news” just a millimeter, that will be a great way to honor a man who deserves great honor – Michel du Cille. Follow this link to get to Achenbach’s story in the Washington Post: http://wapo. st/1Gu5oxH, or just Google “Achenbach Michel du Cille.” Canary in a mine. This is what we do.

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V13-011, Owens Lake Road, New phase of Six Hills subdivision, Six Maples LLC, Douglas Dillard DEFERRED FROM LAST MONTH Submit your opinions to news@appenmediagroup.com Request(s): To appeal pursuant to Section 64-1889 the Community Development NOTES FROM•SANTA’S DESK: Director’s October 4, 2013 denial of a concept plan for Six Hill Phase IV, dated May 15, 2012, per Director’s conclusion that the site plan contains a new street closer than 50 feet from a property line adjoining residentially zoned property (Section 64-2397). 1.

OPINION

Santa knows a child shall lead us denly asked her to come back. If anyone had told me six 2. ago V13-014, 980 Mayﬁ eld Road, The Lakes at Mayﬁeld, Planners You and see, Engineers, I understand not weeks that I would be only wanting your parents Santa Claus at Tran the Roswell Kristy back, but anyone else you Christmas Tree Lighting, I DEFERRED FROM LAST MONTH had loved and lost for whatprobably would have laughed. Request(s): ever reason. We all want to The reservations for my work To New eliminate the 50 stream/lake bufferTHE REAL recapture the feelings of love, as Santa Claus•in the SANTA Tofor eliminate the 75 foot impervious setback (Section 20-425) York area were •made my CLAUS safety and home that we, as innocent children, too often mother and I, the contracts signed, plane tickets in and Cogburn Road, Matt Engleka take for granted. 3. the V14-001, Hopewell I wanted to reassure her to every child. I vowed long hand and the airport limouRequest(s): that I had heard her wish and ago – actually when I started sine booked. • To allow a building to be located more than would 20 feetdo from the edge of everything in my being Santa Claus – I was But all that was scrapped strip going or easement, shown power on theto submitted plan. make hersite wish come NEVER to rush aas child when the morning of the our landscape (Section 64-1145,3,a) true – if not this Christmas, to say what they wanted or departure, my 92-year-old sometime in the near future. needed to say. mother broke one of her hips. I told her that I wanted the Some are shy, others are Of course, I opted to stay in 4. V14-002, 14735/14737 Wood Road, Phoebe Loughrey same thing too. nervous and some have trouRoswell. Request(s): Secretly, I wished my ble expressing what is in their My plans were chang• theToweather allow a barn to encroach into the 50’ stream buffercould (Section 20-425) mother be home for little hearts. Unfortunately, ing as rapidly as • To allow a barn encroach into the the inno75’ impervious setback (Section 20Christmas, rather than in weto tend to outgrow forecast, and I kept repeating 425) cent honesty of childhood, but physical rehabilitation. I Maria Von Trapp’s famous that simple wish more luckily I can remember line in “The Sound • of ToMusic” allow a barn to encroach into the it. rear yard wished (Section 64-416,i) thanyard anything I had64-416,i) ever Next up to was a coupleinto of the side –“When the Lord a • closes To allow a shaving shed encroach (Section wished for before. She nodded “tween” girls, one blonde with door, somewhere He opens a • To allow a building holding animals (a barn) to be closer than 100’ from again, thanked me and left sparkly eyes and the other window.” the side and rear propertywith linesan(Section the gazebo smiling. dark-haired almost 64-415,a) One of those windows was Her image stayed in my distant look in her dark eyes. to be the Roswell Christmas mind as real as when it hapThe little blonde was not the Tree Lighting, held on the pened. It made me remember square – same place where my least bit hesitant. She was my own daddy and how much a “Frozen” fan and had her daddy owned and operated Christmas had meant to him heart set on a doll from that the Roswell Discount Store. It’s the same space where they movie. Sure, she wanted other and how he had passed on that special feeling to his re-opened the popular upscale things, but “Frozen” ruled. children, grandchildren and Then, I asked the other restaurant The Public House virtually everyone he knew. little girl, the one with the on Roswell Square. Across I miss him and would love dark hair, what she wanted the street is the old gazebo to have him back for one more for Christmas. Her smile vanwhere I used to sit and do Christmas – and in my memoished and she looked down at my homework, and play after ries and dreams, I will. school, waiting for my parents the plank floor of the gazebo. That little girl taught me a She said something, but it to close their store and take very important lesson: Who is was so soft I could not hear me home. around the tree on Christmas her; so I asked her to repeat I paused going up the morning will always be much it. steps of the gazebo and more important than “what” She said with tears in her looked across at the row of old is under the tree. Not all gifts eyes, “I want my Mama and stores. I could still see in my come wrapped in bright paper Daddy back.” mind Joe Mansell, Guy Tolwith bows. I ask the blonde “tween” to bert, J.C. Smith, Doral David please excuse us and my dad sitting out front. while I spoke with Some were in rocking chairs, her friend. I found some in straight back chairs out that they were leaned against the wall and friends, and that some perched precariously on she was brought Coca-Cola crates turned on to the tree-lighting their ends. by neighbors. She Occasionally they napped, started to cry, and but most times they talked tears filled my – about any and everything. eyes. Eavesdrop for an hour or two I could not help and you would have no need it, and I guess I did for a newspaper. (And, they not want to help say women are the gossips.) it. This young girl This Saturday evening needed to see that though, I could see there someone really was already a line of chilcared. We talked dren. Soon a steady stream for around 10 minof youngsters were reciting utes about her life to me their Christmas wishand her parents. lists, which included virtually I explained to every toy advertised on televiher that Santa is sion stations in the past few not granted the weeks. power by God to Bright eyes and excited make all wishes voices – can so many years come true, but I have passed since I was in would definitely their places imagining what pray that her wish the next Christmas morning would be granted. would be like? She nodded. I was One of the volunteers so touched by her whispered in my ear, “Santa, simple, heartfelt hurry up we have a long line.” wish that I sudI smiled and kept talking

Third Place: Best Original Writing - Opinion

THOMAS TOLBERT

Abby Breaux: Account Executive, Photographer

bby Breaux is an account executive and photographer at Appen Media Group.

She develops and handles client relationships through identifying individual advertisings needs. She enjoys helping her advertising clients build and grow their businesses. Abby also photographs the cover of Appen Media Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Answer Book

publications and supplies photography work for her clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ads. The Association of Free Community Papers recently awarded Abby for her photography work, including first place and second place for best original photography used in a color ad. The Association of Free Community Papers and general manager of Appen Media Group recently recognized Abby as a Rising Star. Rising Stars is a program designed to

Second Place: Best Original Photography In Ad - Color

honor individuals under who are emerging leaders in the free paper industry, exemplify good character, leadership, and professionalism not only at work, but in the communities they serve. Abby attended the University of North Georgia and studied abroad for one year in England. With her Bachelor of Science degree in Art Marketing, Abby brings a creative eye to her clients advertising campaigns and photography used at Appen Media Group.

First Place: Best Original Photography In Ad - Color

David Brown: Senior Graphic Designer

avid has been in the advertising and graphics field for 30 years. At Pratt & Buehl Advertising, a Buckhead ad agency, David worked as an art director, account rep

and production manager. From there he started his own design studio, Studio DB, where he did work for companies in Atlanta and a few agencies as well. In 2011 David joined Appen Media Group as lead designer for the production department. Within the first year,

Ignite Appen Creative was formed to provide agency level design and marketing services. David raked in a company high eight awards at AFCP, including five first place finishes. David is married with 2 children and hobbies include cars, gardening and travel.

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usan Hernandez started part-time with Appen Media Company in 2010.

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She was awarded a third place consideration for Best online presentation of a digital edition or flip book. This is her first AFCP award.

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Third Place: Best online presentation of a digital edition or flip book

Hatcher Hurd: Executive editor

Degree in Communications from Georgia State University.

He holds a Masters

In his career he has held many positions including desk editor for a major metro daily and editor of several community newspapers in the metro

atcher Hurd has been with Appen Media Group for 22 of his 28 years in journalism.

Atlanta area. He has also been involved in community service including serving on such boards as Habitat for Humanity North Fulton, Senior Services North Fulton and HomeStretch.

28 | July 24, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Health & Wellness Sponsored section ► PAGE 26

Barnwell Rd. makeover

Several traffic projects proposed for street ► PAGE 16

Avalon arrives

Johns Creek Council taking can-do approach

Football roundup

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Preview of what’s to come ► PAGES 7 – 15

November 13, 2014 | northfulton.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 45

Deal names Riley to state post Resigns House seat to serve as revenue commissioner By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Gov. Nathan Deal announced Nov. 7 that state Rep. Lynne Riley, R-Johns Creek, will succeed Douglas MacGinnitie as Department of Revenue commissioner, effective Jan. 11, 2015. Riley has submitted her resignation from the General Assembly effective immediately. “It’s the collection arm of the state of Georgia, and I am just excited to be chosen for the position and honored beThe Veterans Memorial Park opens with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the yond belief that the governor youngest (honorary) member of the Johns Creek Veterans Association, Girl would reach to me to serve in Scout Sabrina Yvellez, and oldest, World War II veteran John Timpe. this role,” Riley said. For details and photos see Pages 48-49. It will be Riley’s charge to collect annually the state’s $20 HATCHER HURD/STAFF billion in revenues and oversee a workforce of 1,300 employees Riley said she met with the governor last Wednesday, the day after Election Day, to discuss the job. “He asked to me meet with me shortly after he was assured he was returned to ofﬁce. And I look forward to serving as an agency head asin his administration,” fewer than 4,000 students Submit yourwill news & photos sisting to news@northfulton.com 48 | November 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com she said. be zoned to new schools in any Riley had been one of of the three draft maps curDeal’s close allies in the Legrently under consideration, islature, and in making the according to Fulton School appointment, Deal praised System ofﬁcials. will be impacted by changes in By CANDY WAYLOCK Continued from Page 48 JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Hunof so many Riley the forcontributions her business and po“We try to minimize impact attendance boundaries schedcandy@appenmediagroup.com dreds of residents gathered people and organizations. It is with dignitaries both foreign liticalaacumen. if possible, however, who theis ultiuled to go into effect next year. project with many parents. not only a JCVA memHATCHER and domestic to pay their reThe JCVA especially is to be ber, he is also the Johns Creek spects at the opening Nov. 7 to HURD “Lynne brings three deenrollOf the 48,000 students cur- mate goal is to balance NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Fewer congratulated, as are the City parks manager. His tireless the Johns Creek Veterans MeExecutive Editor Council for granting theexperispace work coordinating hundreds of cades of accounting rently attending the 46 tradihatcher@northfulton.com than 10 percent of students morial Walk at Newtown Park. volunteer hours to get the park to make it possible and all of The Johns Creek Veterans ence and expertise on tax attending North Fulton schools tional schools in North Fulton, See CHANGES, Page 4 under budget the donors and volunteers who built on time and

Veterans Memorial Walk opens

Attendance zone maps show future changes for North Fulton

Proposed redistricting will impact COMMUNITY far fewer students than in past

JC Veterans Memorial Walk Association did an incredible job of pulling off the project in such stunning fashion in just 14 months. The members raised more than $300,000 – without one penny of tax dollars – to create this beautiful “walk” with plazas honoring those who served in every American war since World War I. Other plazas include the Women in Service Plaza honoring the role women have had in each of these wars; a plaza for our POWs and MIAs – prisoners of war and those still missing in action; and the Purple Heart Plaza honoring those wounded in battle. Addressing the throng assembled on a spectacular November afternoon were Mayor Mike Bodker, U.S. Rep. Tom Price and the Honorable Seong-jin Kim, the Southeastern consul general for the Republic of Korea. The Korean government also sponsored the $13,000 Korean War Plaza in honor of the Americans who helped preserve Korean independence. Some others deserve special mention in making the Veterans Memorial Walk a reality. Certainly, 14-year-old Girl Scout Sabrina Yvellez, who single-handedly raised $13,000 for the Women in Service Memorial, deserves special mention. She was not only the smallest fundraiser, but the first to throw her cap over the fence

to pledge sponsorship for a full $13,000 plaza. She chose the Women in Service Plaza. Jewelry retailer Jimmy Ho was another early sponsor who gave the project traction. He sponsored the World War II Plaza for $13,000. John and Cori Davenport stepped up when donations hit a lull this summer. They donated a total of $52,000 for the Entrance Plaza, the Vietnam War Plaza and a bench, making them the largest single donors for the memorial. The St. Brigid’s Catholic Church Knights of Columbus not only donated the funds for the park’s gazebo, they also added their sweat equity and built it. But the real thanks for the Memorial Walk goes to the Johns Creek Veterans Association, which is only three years old. Without their inspiration and perspiration, none of this would have happened. The JCVA is more of a social organization for “old soldiers” but early on, they decided the organization needed a project. What a project. With 4 acres donated by the city from Newtown Park, they started with a plan and no money. For this Veterans Day a little over a year later, a permanent remembrance of the sacrifice and courage of millions of

RILEY

DEAL

Stewart, Raffensperger to run for vacant House seat Councilmembers Kelly Stewart and Brad Raffensperger announced they will seek Lynne Riley’s District 50 post. See stories, Pages 18 and 20. policy from her time on the House Ways and Means Committee,” Deal said in his statement to appoint her. “I’ve seen Lynne’s effectiveness and know-how up-close while she served as my ﬂoor leader in the House, and I northfulton.com know the | Johns Creek Herald | November 13, 2014 | department will continue to run smoothly and provide great customer service to the taxpayers of Georgia under her leadership. “I appreciate her willingness to take on this new challenge,” Deal said.

COMMUNITY

opens with solemn dignity was a key component of the success of the project. Third is Wayne Kidd, who is not only the project chairman, but the JCVA’s second president. Kidd more than anyone has been the face of the project. More than that, he has been the project’s sergeant major. He was always there pushing the project forward and taking on the myriad details with military precision. In the final analysis, it was

See RILEY, Page 18

took on the job. But we should never lose sight of the real heroes of the day. They are those men and women who served, who left families behind and traveled to foreign lands, often at great peril. And what did they fight for? Many will say they fought for the right, justice and for patriotism. But I think it really just comes down to one word, and that is the word that has defined us as a people. Freedom.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Visitors file in to the Veterans Memorial Walk to see the park for the first time. service men and women now shines in Johns Creek. Yes, a deep debt is owed to the JCVA, but as often is the case, three members stand out. First is Gerry Lewis, JCVA’s first president and the man who championed the idea to the City Council and the business community. His leadership helped get the project off the ground in its early days. Second is Robby Newton,

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

The Saint Brigid Catholic Church Knights of Columbus attend ceremonies in full regalia.

See more, Page 49

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Visitors examine the brick memorial pavers at the World War I Plaza. Each granite memorial has photos from the era and the campaign medal emblazoned on it.

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HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Johns Creek Veterans Association members from left Jerry Lewis, Robby Newton and Wayne Kidd led the organization’s efforts to make Veterans Memorial Walk a reality. HATCHER HURD/STAFF

JCVA members stand at attention during the flags-raising ceremony. At left are U.S. Army flag raisers Mike Roman and Warren Tobin. U.S. Navy flag raisers on right are Ed Nolan and Jim Williamson.

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Visitors tour the 4-acre Veterans Walk after opening ceremonies.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

A bagpiper adds a solemn note to the proceedings.

First Place: Community Service/ Editorial

Guest speakers at dedication ceremonies are from front to back Mayor Mike Bodker, U.S. Congressman Tom Price and Consul General of the Republic of Korea Seong-jin Kim.

Since December when the newly minted Johns Creek City Council took office, this has been a body that is determined carry out a new mandate for the city. The latest resolve by this City Council to revive the interest in turning Rogers Bridge into an iconic image for the city is just more evidence that they are going to be a proactive force for the community. It was born out of a contentious election that did not end until the July 22 runoff. That attempt to oust Mayor Mike Bodker is well documented and its failure spectacular. But the previous council’s true fault was its failure to dare to be great. This council with the mayor, Lenny Zaprowski, Cori Davenport, Kelly Stewart and Brad Raffensperger has already put a new stamp on this government. This is written before the addition of the runoff victors, but a new identity has been cast. Already, they have put to bed a contentious issue: the failure to secure a much needed traffic signal at Brumbelow Road’s south entrance onto Old Alabama Road. It pointed to the failure of that council to ever trust its sister cities. Rather, they allowed themselves to be led by their former city manager who seemed bent on a policy of isolationism, which they bought into. But I don’t want to rehash the past, nor do I want to denigrate in any way the tough job they had. With no institutional memory to guide them, they were forced to hit the ground running and overall, did a good job. They established top drawer departments that have done a good job of meeting the basic needs, especially public safety, recreation and parks, public works, finance and establishing the city’s infrastructure. That said, it is a new day and a new council. Reaching out to the city of Duluth, they reopened the plan to refurbish the 114-year-old Rogers Bridge into a pedestrian gateway. That will in the short term unite Duluth and Gwinnett greenways and parkland. Most people I have talked with have used the word “nobrainer” when talking about their support of the idea. Yet, the city charter was changed in part to specifically muzzle Mayor Bodker from even bringing up the issue. This City Council has shown none of the xenophobia that was shown previously. I expect to see more such willingness to explore the synergies that can be mined by

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

Ultimately, greenway supporters in Roswell want to link to Cobb County greenways, which gains access to Georgia’s Silver Comet Trail. cooperating with neighboring governments. There is support from federal agencies and the Georgia Department of Transportation for alternative modalities for moving people around without using automobiles. That means support for greenways. Johns Creek is already working on its greenway to link to the Alpharetta Greenway and by extension Roswell’s trail system. Forsyth County is doing the same. Rogers Bridge will be a link to further greenway expansion. Ultimately, greenway supporters in Roswell want to link to Cobb County greenways, which gains access to Georgia’s Silver Comet Trail. That is a paved, non-motorized recreational trail that begins in Smyrna and runs 91 miles to Anniston, Alabama. Being a part of such a recreation network would be a huge asset financially as well as recreationally for the community. The council is embracing the idea of a city center to create both a gathering place and an economic center. The possibilities for that are intriguing and show a belief that Johns Creek should indeed dare to be great. And why not? Numerous economic studies put Johns Creek as a top place to come to get a job, a top city to raise a family and just recently was named the No. 1 “Rising City” in Georgia. But there is no such thing as treading water for cities. You are either growing or dying. Johns Creek must embrace its place as a leading suburban Atlanta city or slide into something less than the best. So far, it seems this council is opting for greatness.

First Place:Best Original Writing - Opinion

OPIN

The sing tips its wing as it flies ov bandana, th the ocean fo toward the I smile a good trip wh going. He is met on the been friends years. He is for one of th and life is g But he h of very roug that first m addiction, t tion, reinsta his kids, th back. I rem time ago wa to him abou not drink an followed. In hinds must have b of his fight. line in the s worked his at a time. H spirit are qu She kno crowd of hu her friends. what they a pushes the the eggs on her flippers flips, she st and rests. The sun can tell that Crawling ou way up the ing dozens o a herculean they do this the night. A on the islan experience w precious ac She pus then at onc turn – and m toward the the water’s more and lo lunges into rives to take We chee in Alpharett was angry m Then this – small praye and my ang ing as if it h into the oce my feet by t and clarity message. “We neve confides in his dog and It’s not fair. after all tho not too long him. He lov than life its I remem island when peared and

A.J. McNaughton: Production, Newsroom Manager

riginally hailing from the suburbs of Chicago, A.J. moved to Alpharetta, Georgia in the fall of 2012 to pursue a career in graphic design.

After freelancing for a year, he gained full time employment in the production department of Appen Media Group. He soon ascended the ranks from production designer to production manager and eventually production, newsroom manager.

You already treat

August, 2014 • NorthAtlantaBusinessPost.com

NORTH FULTON MARKET REPORT:

them like YOUR KIDS,

All about resins

An inside look into the billiondollar Allnex deal. PAGE 1B

be sure to give

Letters from the Mayors

North Fulton leaders share what’s new in their cities. PAGE 4B Volume I, Issue 2 • Part of Appen Media Group • Cherokee • Cobb • Forsyth • Fulton • Gwinnett • Hall

Home of the Braves

Multi-use project starts near Braves new stadium. PAGE 4A

GM on the move

Company brings 1,000 jobs to Roswell. PAGE 10A

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them the same care

“Are you ready to get ice cream now Gus?” Animal Choice Veterinary Service knows you treat your pets like they were one of your own. Now, we want to become a part of your family. Opened in 1983, our offices are located in the heart of downtown Alpharetta, and serves all of the North Fulton area. We provide checkups, vaccines, emergency procedures and more. We work on all types of pets like dogs, cats, rabbits, snakes and many more. So whether your pet walks, slithers or hops we have the staff and tools to help.

Close to 90 Georgia banks have failed since 2007, far more than any other state.

But there’s a bright side to the decline. It appears we’ve hit the bottom and now it’s a slow, upward climb back to the top.

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While the effects of the severe financial downturn and the severity of the recession seem to be in the rearview mirror, it’s the smaller banks that were hit the hardest.

Groundbreaking

Fiserv to open headquarters in Alpharetta. PAGE 15A

That’s because larger banks have a long history of navigating rough economic waters and community banks often have fewer resources. See the complete story plus our infographic on pages 16A and 17A.

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In 2014 he was award two third place awards from AFCP for cover design and most improved publication. He continued to impress the judges of AFCP, being awarded six awards including first place for cover design and second place in the design contest amongst other accolades.

You already treat them like YOUR KIDS,

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First Place: Best Cover Design- Newsprint Tabloid/Broadsheet

“Now blow out your candles... I hope you’re wishing for a bike!” Animal Choice Veterinary Service knows you treat your pets like they were one of your own. Now, we want to become a part of your family. Opened in 1983, our offices are located in the heart of downtown Alpharetta, and serves all of the North Fulton area. We provide checkups, vaccines, emergency procedures and more. We work on all types of pets like dogs, cats, rabbits, snakes and many more. So whether your pet walks, slithers or hops we have the staff and tools to help.

3855 North Main St., Alpharetta p: 707.555.1234 e: info@animalsCVS.com w: AnimalsCVS.com

You already treat them like YOUR KIDS,

be sure to give

them the same care

“You can’t have dessert until you finish your vegetables!” Animal Choice Veterinary Service knows you treat your pets like they were one of your own. Now, we want to become a part of your family. Opened in 1983, our offices are located in the heart of downtown Alpharetta, and serves all of the North Fulton area. We provide checkups, vaccines, emergency procedures and more. We work on all types of pets like dogs, cats, rabbits, snakes and many more. So whether your pet walks, slithers or hops we have the staff and tools to help.

3855 North Main St., Alpharetta p: 707.555.1234 e: info@animalsCVS.com w: AnimalsCVS.com

Second Place: Special In-Paper Promotion or Special Section

Second Place: Advertising Design Contest Campaign for a Veterinarian

Suzanne Pacey: Graphic Designer

uzanne Pacey, a graduate Florida State University, has been working as a graphic designer for over 25 years in the

Metro Atlanta area. In 2012 she began as a contractor with Appen Media Group, and is now lead designer for Northside Woman. She is married to Kurt Pacey and

mother of three mostly wonderful children. She enjoys a creative challenge and pushing herself to produce the best work possible.

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Life is Good

Facebook posts capture strength, spirit of breast cancer survivor Traci Gabrels

By KATIE VANBRACKLE

katie@northsidewoman.com

Find Your Mojo Female fitness vacations

Training Champions

Editor’s note: Our November 2012 issue included a Girlfriends’ Getaway piece on Johns Creek resident Traci Gabrels’ biking trip through Napa Valley. Just before the magazine was sent to the printer in October, I called Traci, and instead of her usual cheerful voice, I heard a quiet, serious tone on the line. The unthinkable had happened to this healthy, lively mother of two. She had just been diagnosed with a very aggressive form of breast cancer. Throughout her treatment, Traci’s Facebook posts were filled with honesty and emotion, but her sweet, spunky spirit never wavered. Two years later, Traci is one of the lucky ones – cancer free. And grateful every day for it. Her bravery, humor and grace are an inspiration, not just to cancer patients, but to anyone facing a difficult road ahead. Traci has always been “crazy close” to her sister, Lori Taylor.

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Traci’s close friends decorated her door on the day of her last chemo treatment in 2013, as well as surprising her with more signs in the lobby of her doctor’s office.

Traci Gabrels Nov. 20, 2012 OK…is it really bad that I am THOROUGHLY enjoying laying on the couch watching Kelly and Michael while my husband is doing the dishes, doing the laundry AND mopping the floor? Ummm…I think not! (btw…I could seriously get used to this…hehehe)…

Traci Gabrels Dec. 20, 2012 I’ve been wanting to write some “being thankful” posts lately, but obviously haven’t. Why?? I’ve been having migraines for two weeks now. And…been sleeping an average of four hours at night. And…have a pretty wicked cold. And…have been crying my eyes out or snapping at people because my stupid hormones are out of whack and I haven’t gotten everything done associated with Christmas yet. And…my next chemo treatment is tomorrow and the world is supposed to end right in the middle of it! But…other than that…it’s all good! : ) No, really…I mean it…it is all good! And am I thankful? You bet your sweet bippy I am! Everything that I am going through will pass. It’s nothing compared to what some people are going through out there. God willing, I’m going to be able to hug and love on my family long after all this sickness is over and that, in itself, is the most precious gift to be thankful for.

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First Place: Best Cover Design- Newsprint - Booklet/Magazine

Traci Gabrels Nov. 5, 2012 Well…looks like things are progressing pretty fast. So fast, in fact, sometimes even I have a hard time wrapping my head around it. We saw the oncologist again today. Will have “port” put in tomorrow, PET scan and echo Wednesday, start taking steroids 5 times a day Thursday, then start chemo on Friday. I know there’s got to be a joke or some kind of humor I can throw in here to lighten the mood, but having trouble finding it at the moment. So…gonna leave it like this…God is good, I am blessed, and thanks again for all the sweet words and prayers…they mean the world to me.

Traci Gabrels Nov. 14, 2012 Day 6 after first chemo treatment. The day I’m supposed to start feeling “normal,” according to everyone. Ummm…OK…I’m trying to take your word for it…but honestly…nothing’s ever really going to seem “normal” again. And I don’t mean that in a bad way, but really, I don’t think I’m ever going to look at anything the same way again. For instance…right now…I can’t breathe. I feel like I’m running a marathon uphill and can’t stop. But, last night, I was able to walk up the stairs, tuck my children into their beds and put my arms around them and hold them. That will never just be “normal” to me again. Why? Because something so small as being able to hold my children is precious and will be utterly appreciated from now on. Every sweet, stupid, monotonous activity of each day is what I’m longing for…but for now, I’m good. I have really good (not great…yet) moments, and some pretty low ones. I was pretty “out of it” for a few days. Just basically sat and stared. Had moments of truly feeling like a burden and worthless. Then would have times of feeling so absolutely thankful and grateful, I was completely overwhelmed. OK…sorry for rambling…lots of emotions going on in here. But, like I said before, life is good, I am blessed and keep the prayers coming!

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Traci Gabrels Oct. 28, 2012 WOW! I knew turning “40” was going to come with all sorts of “growing old” adventures and, so far, it hasn’t been disappointing. So…what kind of adventure am I in store for next, you ask? Well…I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer. Yes, I’m serious. I found out this week and will start chemo soon, then have surgery. So, you might be wondering why I’m telling everyone on FB. Well, this is just my way of “controlling” or “owning” it, instead of it controlling me. In this day of technology, people are going to find out. And let’s be honest…as soon as I lose my hair (which, by the way, is really gonna suck because I’ve grown quite fond of my hair)…the cat’s gonna be out-of-the-bag anyway. So, people have been asking me what they can do for me and my family. Honestly….pray. Not for me, but for my family. Which brings me to ask a favor of who might see me at the grocery store, wrestling match, etc…if you come up to me all doe-eyed and cry (especially in front of my kids), you are giving me the green light to SMACK YOU upside the head! : ) (I’m not kidding…I will hurt you!) Just don’t freak my kids out because I’m going to be fine, okay? So…more updates to follow. But…just so you know…don’t feel sorry for me. I am blessed beyond belief (Big Dude has my back), am going to come through this even healthier, and I’m a pretty tough cookie! So…don’t worry…I got this.

► See SHE'RO, Page 8

Traci Gabrels Dec. 21, 2012 I received some rather interesting news from the oncologist today. First, he’s already thrown me into menopause (which actually makes me feel better because it explains my “Cybil” personality lately and hot flashes!). I also found out that I get to incorporate mineral oil in my daily diet…Woohoo! Maybe I’ll finally lose those 5 pounds that have been lingering! And…the best thing…I will have full brain function about 1.5 YEARS after chemo is all done! So, I have an explanation for all those goofy things that come out of my mouth and I can’t be held accountable for any of them! Okay…go ahead…you gotta admit…you’re a little jealous!

6 | northsidewoman.com | october2014

Third Place: Andrew E. Shapiro Award Cancer Awareness Promotion

Kathleen Sturgeon: Forsyth Herald Reporter

athleen Sturgeon is a reporter with the Forsyth Herald. Sturgeon covers everything going on in Forsyth County and the City of Cumming including Board of Commissioner meetings, school news and local interest stories. She started her newspaper career at Alpharetta High School working on their newspaper, “The Hook.” She graduated

from AHS in 2010. Sturgeon was heavily involved on her college’s newspaper, “The West Georgian,” at the University of West Georgia, graduating in the class of 2014. She held the positions of chief copy editor, features editor and news editor. While at UWG, Sturgeon won the Excellence Award for Print Journalism in 2014, was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, Sigma Kappa and won the “Toyal Jackson Making a Difference” award 2014.

This award annually recognizes one UWG student who has worked to help unite the student body at UWG, actively involved themselves within the community and show dedicated service to enhancing student life. During the summer of 2013, Sturgeon interned with Appen Media Group where she published over 50 bylines and helped reinforce her love of journalism. Sturgeon has been with Appen Media Group full-time since October 2014.”

NEWS

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

Leaked documents show nonemployees receiving benefits Councilman investigated to get impeached By KATHLEEN STURGEON Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com Submit your news & photos to news@forsythherald.com CUMMING, Ga. — In a 4-1 decision, the Cumming City Council voted Dec. 23 to consider impeachment of longstanding Councilmember Rupert Sexton for releasing personal information of city employees. Sexton contends he is instead accused of airing skeletons from the city’s closet. Sexton is accused of releasing a document disclosing GregfiLittle, director of CUMMING, Ga. — The Cumpersonal nancial and health Cumming’s Recreationforand ming Aquatic Center has again insurance information the Parks Department, announced been selected by the Georgia city of Cumming employees on that the facility had been Recreation and Park Assosocial media, including longawarded the 2015 event during ciation as host of a statewide time Mayor H. Ford Gravitt’s a meeting of the Cumming City swim meet set for July 2015. supposed girlfriend, Angela Council on Dec. 16. The facility first hosted the Mullinax. Little said the 2014 meet competition in July 2014. The document caused drew about 1,200 swimmers Members of the GRPA earmany to question why Mullinax from all over Georgia, along lier this month again selected was listed as receiving health with about 8,000 of their supthe local aquatic center for the insurance paid for by the city porters. The event netted about event. of Cumming. Mullinax is not a city employee and the insurance is paid for by taxpayers. “I was trying to save the taxpayers in the city of Cumming money,” said Sexton, defending himself. “I discovered things that they didn’t want me to know. Somehow these people got on the list and have been getting benefits the entire time.” When questioned about the accusations, Mullinax declined

What we know about Angela Mullinax:

SPORTS

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 31, 2014 | 21

Cumming Aquatic Center again tapped for state meet Summer event slated to draw more than 1,000 swimmers

Ryan McCarthy #13

According to media reports, Mullinax began receiving health benefits in August 2005 when $17,000 the center. she wasfor named the city’s The competition also sponsor procurement brought an economic impact of specialist. Phil Higgins, several hundred thousand dolcity human resources lars to the Cumming-Forsyth manager, said Mullinax County area. recruits sponsorships for know it filled up hotel city“Ievents but does not rooms all the way from Roswell receive a paycheck and is to Gainesville,” Gravitt said the only person who has during the Dec. 16 meeting. ever held the position. The After the meeting, Little job description indicated credited the mayor and council holding the position does for their forethought when the not constitute employment $15 million facility was being with the city.in 2010 and 2011 constructed as one major factor in securing the prestigious event two years

to comment. “She does a lot of work for the city of Cumming,” said Gravitt. “I put her on [the list]. I think the city pays $663 a month for her insurance — that’s it. I think we got a good bargain.” Sexton says Mullinax’s health and dental policies have cost Cumming taxpayers roughly $75,000 over the years, which could amount to

tion pool and seating for up to in a row. “We’re thrilled and humbled 1,000 observers. Carla Wilson, manager of that the GRPA again selected the Cumming Aquatic Center, our facility for this event,” KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF said she herMiles staff are hapLittle said. “It’s thanks to Council the The City of Cumming City listens toand Dana as he py to again be able to provide efforts of our city who, speaks about the leaders procedure for a possible impeachment. hospitality to the state’s top during the construction proswimmers and their families. cess, allowed several amenities “Last year’s event was so and features to be included in incredible and we’re honored the facility. We knew at that employees with no designated theft. to be able to host this meet for time, those things would pay job duties, but for the purThis all unfolded after the off for us in the future and now a second year in a row,” she pose of getting paid city health council voted on whether to said. “We’ll be working hard in they have.” benefits. That was not a proper proceed with the possible imthe months to come to make Some of those features purpose for an executive sespeachment of Sexton. sure everything goes even more include a larger than average sion and the executive session Before Gravitt entered the smoothly than it did this past amount of deck space around was immediately adjourned.” council meeting room, Sexton summer.” the Olympic-size competiMiles said Sexton did not shook hands and chatted with seek to add this proposal to the other councilmen. Once the regular meeting agenda. Gravitt called the meeting “But instead Sexton reto order, City Attorney Dana marked twice that he was now Miles discussed the facts the going to, ‘do what he had to city knows today. do,’” said Miles. “In that same “A week ago, on Dec. 16, evening, an Excel spreadsheet Councilman Sexton made a motion to go into executive ses- containing the financial and health insurance information sion to discuss employee benon the city’s 139 employees efits,” said Miles. “After that was posted on social media. executive session, Councilman Sexton requested a proposal See SCANDAL, Page 21 for councilmembers’ wives as

Forsyth Schools above Ga. average for CCRPI

Jacob Hanley #21

Mitchell Ojeda #22

Adam Guard #44

Matt Walters #45

Garrison Winter #56

College andfootball Career Readyplayers Performancereceive all-region status Twelve Pinecrest Our parents are very involved Index shows Forsyth at top players were recognized: CUMMING, Ga. — Twelve Lineman of the year: Matt Pinecrest Academy 2014 VarWalters sity Football players recently By KATHLEEN STURGEON First Team: Ryan McCarearned all-region recognition. Kathleen@appenmediagroup.com thy QB and punter; Mitchell Pinecrest played in Region 6A, Ojeda RB; Garrison Winter OL; ending its regular season with FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. —Guard Matt Walters DL; Adam a 4-1 record. The following Usually giving grades, Forsyth County Schools (FCS) were the ones being graded the witnesses, look atwhen documents, College and Career Ready do whatever they feel likePeris in formance Index was recently their scope to investigate this Continued from Page 4 released. matter.” The overallwas score Thedistrict’s panel, which sewas an 89.8, an increase from lected by Miles, will be comlast year’s 89.4 and prised of score Miles,of former Forsyth That Excel spreadsheet was the 87.8 score from 2012. County Commissioner Patrick created by our Human ReGeorgia’s overall state score Bell and Steve Page, a local sources Director, Phil Higgins, was 72.6 for elementary, 73.2 businessman. and was only given to Sexton for middle 68.4 for high “They and are members of our upon his request.” school. In 2013, Georgia’s communit y,” said Miles. “I “I requested it be changed overall schools think elementary they’re people of very to a spousal benefit program, overall scored 77.8, high integrity. Our middle goal is to which is perfectly legal,” said and highasschools make 74.6 this process transparSexton. “It was nothing out of scored scored In 2012, Georgia’s ent as71.8. possible.” the ordinary. Our insurance elementary The next step schools is coming up benefits do not have a spousal overall scored middle with a74.5, report, Milesschools said, that benefit section for the counscored 73.8beand high schools will then returned to the cil and I wanted to add one scored 72.8. at a subsequent city council group.” meeting. Sexton said that apparently The overall score for el“If based on that report,” didn’t sit well. ementary schools in FCS was said “thefrom city 88.7 council “The attitude is that you 90, anMiles, increase in votesand to impeach Councilman can’t talk about the mayor’s 2013 86.7 in 2012. Sexton, a trial girlfriend.” Middlethen schools in will FCSbe set for the city council on specific Miles discussed the procedure for potentially impeaching charges and Sexton will have all the due process rights to Sexton, which is outlined in respond to those charges with Cumming’s charter, the city whatever evidence he’d like code and state law. to use in that trial. If the city “The council will be asked council votes not to impeach to appoint an investigatory Sexton, then the process is at panel,” said Miles. “The panel an end.” will conduct an investigation If Sexton is impeached and of these facts and other facts convicted of the charges, then they can obtain, interview

Scandal:

LB; Jacob Hanley LB Second Team: Logan Stafford OL; Greg Metz DB; Sean scored 91.5DB overall, a slight Flanigan decrease from the 91.6 in Luke 2013 Honorable Mention: but increase from Nelson 89.5 inLB; delan Balzo OL; Peter 2012. Nick Palmer WR The high schools in FCS scored 85.7 overall, increasing from in 2013 but decreashe is85.5 automatically removed ing from inas 2012. from his86.3 office a councilKarl Mercer is the director member. of accountability for FCS. Sexton then stood up He to said results were overall giveFCS’ a rebuttal. higher than the states for sev“I’ve served the citizens of eral reasons. Cumming the last 44 years “This is due to the hard with utmost integrity,” said work and“I’ve dedication of our ilSexton. done nothing students, teachers, adminis- I legal, immoral or unethical. trators andreleased district to personnel,” have not any media said Mercer. “Our source any list orparents records.are I very involved ask and the reinforce respectfully mayorthe need greatcouncilmen education and and for myafellow to toprovide perform inproof school. We mewell with of the also have a strong relationship contrary.” with Sexton business partners said that heand believes the community. this informationThis can helps be ob-us determine to best through prepare tained by how any citizen students successAct, after high the Openfor Records and that he emailed the document school.” to Mercer Gravitt,also Councilman said that Lewis FCS Ledbetter Councilman has a focusand on standards Ralphteaching Perry. and learning based “If you want to rigor impeach me and increasing the in the because of some list that went out on social news media,” said Sexton, “then my question is why aren’t Mayor Gravitt, Councilman Ledbetter and Councilman Perry not getting impeached? They got the same list I got and it is public record. I’m going to ask the Georgia Whistleblowers Act be invoked immediately.”

Second Place: Best Original Writing, News Article

and reinforce the need for a DEATH NOTICES great education and to perform well in school. We also have a Richard Eugene Phillips, of Blue Ridge, passed Edward Charles Barnes, 50, 59,with strong relationship business of Forsyth County, passed away December 20, 2014. partners and This Arrangements by Ingram away December 17, the 2014. community. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. helps us determine how to best Funeral Home. Era Bell Buice Rickles, prepare students 96, success of Gainesville,after passed Katharine Rhodes Brown, for 94, of Atlanta, passed away December 21, 2014. high school.” by Ingram away December 15, 2014. Arrangements Arrangements by Ingram KARL MERCER Funeral Home. Director of accountability for FCS

Yingliang Chen, 82, of Johns Creek, passed away December 21, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. classroom. Previously, the district was Josh by Charles Gordon, measured Adequate Yearly 20, of(AYP). Cumming, passed Progress away December 2014. “This only focused 19, on math, Arrangements McDonald reading / English by / language and Son Funeral Home. arts and attendance in elementary and middle school,” said Ruby Ethel Martin, 97, Mercer, “or graduation rates of Cumming, passed in high school. CCRPI focuses December 2014. on away the totality of what16, a school Arrangements does — making surebykids Ingram are Funeral Home. college and career ready.” Kathleen A. Meetze, 68, of Cleveland, passed away December 14, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Walter E. Okenica, 68, of Cumming, passed away December 23, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Funeral Home.

Thomas Anthony Rogers, 64, of Cumming, passed away December 18, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Mercer said with the support of the community, school Marsha Ann Salter, 57, staff and business partners, of willCumming, passed FCS continue to improve. away December 17, ad2014. “School and district Arrangementswork by together McDonald ministrators to and Son. review previous CCRPI scores and determine strengths Marilyn Ann their Schroer, 79, and areas of need,” said Merpassed away December cer. 20, 2014. Arrangements by “This work fuels their McDonalds and Son Funeral school improvement process Home. and goal setting.” Jackie Williams, 74, of Cumming, passed away December 21, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.