Januar y 20, 2016 | ForsythHerald.com | An Appen Media Group Publ icat ion | 50¢ | Vo lume 19, No. 3

Cruising awayStarting this week, win the cruise of your dreams

► PAGE 15KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

Schools from Forsyth and around the world com-peted at the 2016 National Junior Thearter Festival in Atlanta Jan. 16 – 17. Pictured: Drew Davison and Hope Flower, center, from Riverwatch Middle School perform a scene from “Beauty and the Beast.” Read more, Page 24.

Junior thespians take the stage How would you spend your millions?Powerball lottery craze sweeps nation

► PAGE 8

Sen. Williams holds town hall meetingTalks Sharon Springs amongst other topics

► PAGE 6

Forsyth earns A+School system top in state

► PAGE 11

Ambulances stay in ForsythNew contract keeps lifesaving vehicles

► PAGE 9

2 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com PUBLIC SAFETY

Drug arrests ► John Martin Nelms, 47, of Hanover

Place, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 2 on Bordeaux Boulevard in Cumming for possession of marijuana.

► Nicholas Alan Davis, 30, of Misty River Run, Roswell, was arrested Jan.

2 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for possession of marijuana.

► James Elliott Hughes, 23, of Preserve Crossing Lane, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 6 on Elder Field Lane in Cumming for possession of marijuana.

DUI arrests ► Matthew Thomas Altenburg, 26, of

Rollings Links Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 3 on Majors Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to main-tain lane.

► John E. Brady, 64, of Calumet

Drive, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 3 on Bannister Road in Cumming for DUI.

► Brandon Scott McGraw, 28, of Atlanta, was arrested Jan. 2 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI.

► Kerri Beth Hitch, 41, was arrested Jan. 1 on Bucknell Trace in Cumming for DUI.

► Andrew James Kinnard, 27, of Summit Way, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 6 on Ga. 400 in

Man threatens suspicious driverFORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man followed a car from his neighborhood Jan. 8 after he believed the driver was suspicious. The man told officers there had been a suspicious car in his neigh-borhood recently and when he saw a car that fit the description, he decided to follow it until it parked at Wal-Mart.

The 49-year-old man said he pulled up next to the car and spoke with the female driver, reportedly saying if she came back into the neighborhood she would go to jail.

The 46-year-old woman then called officers and said it scared her that the car followed her because she was in the

neighborhood looking at a house for sale. She said the man reportedly told her if she came back into the neigh-borhood he would shoot her. She was referred to magistrate court to seek criminal charges.

Officers spoke with the man again and he reportedly seemed apologetic and “seemed to realize he might have handled the situation the wrong way but was looking to protect his subdivi-sion.” He was advised not to have con-tact with the woman or her car or he would be arrested for criminal trespass.

Yeti frenzy: man steals cupFORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man re-portedly stole one of the hottest Christ-mas 2015 gifts — a Yeti cup.

The man came into Ace Hardware on Atlanta Highway Jan. 5 to purchase a cup. Store video shows the man standing in front of the cup selection for about 10 minutes, constantly look-

ing around and watching the cashier. He then picked up two cups when the cashier walked away.

The man turned away from the camera with two and when he turned back he only had one cup. Officers searched the surrounding area and couldn’t find a cup.

The man then checked out and paid for one cup but left his change. He later came back to get his change and was told they would contact him after the till was counted. Officers called him but he said he did not take any cup other than the one he purchased.

Officers told the manager the sec-ond cup was not technically stolen, and the man did leave enough money to cover both cups.

The manager did not seem inter-ested in following through with any charges; he was just worried about the man not coming into the store any-more. The man was issued a criminal trespass warning and was sent a letter from Ace stating he was not allowed back on the property.

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Teen shot by dad accidentallyFORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An 18-year-old was reportedly accidently shot by his father Jan. 9 while they were clean-ing a gun. The son was standing next to his dad when the Smith & Wesson .40 pistol was accidently fired into the son’s abdomen.

The father drove the son to a fire station off Keith Bridge Road.

The son was then taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville with injuries that were not life-threat-ening. Charges are not pending nor expected.

See ARRESTS, Page 37

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What is astigmatism?Astigmatism occurs when the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye, or the lens inside the eye have diff erent amounts of focusing power vertically and horizontally. Ideally, the cornea is sphere shaped, like a baseball, and images are focused on a single spot resulting in clear vision. If the cornea has an oblong shape, like a football, images are focused on 2 diff erent spots resulting in blurry vision.

How does cataract surgery aff ect astigmatism?When a cataract, the natural human lens that has gotten cloudy, is re-moved during cataract surgery and replaced with a clear artifi cial lens, all of the astigmatism arising from the lens is also removed. The astig-matism that remains is caused by the oblong shape of the cornea. If patients have signifi cant untreated astigmatism after cataract surgery, the uncorrected vision is blurry, and the patient will require glasses to correct the astigmatism and get clear vision.

How can astigmatism be corrected at the time of cataract surgery?Fortunately, there are now options available to surgically correct astigmatism during cataract surgery. The process starts by measur-ing the amount and location of astigmatism in the cornea during the cataract evaluation. Often this is performed with more than one device to improve accuracy. The most reliable way to correct moderate or high astigmatism during cataract is with a special “toric intraocular lens” that corrects astigmatism inside the eye. The amount of astigmatism to be corrected is calculated using the preoperative measurements. The artifi cial lens is orientated during surgery to line up with the steepest part of the cornea, so that it cancels out the astig-matism of the cornea and results in clear vision. Patients corrected for the distance will still require reading glasses for near vision. For some patients, correcting one eye for closer vision is a way to reduce dependence on reading glasses as well. Your eye doctor can help you determine if this would be a good choice for you.

Another method for correcting lower amounts of astigmatism during cataract surgery is by “limbal relaxing incisions.” In this procedure, arc shaped incisions are created in the peripheral cornea which relax (or fl atten) the steepest part of the cornea. This results in a cornea that is more sphere shaped, correcting astigmatism. There are diff erent methods for creating these incisions. One method that works well is using a diamond knife. A more recent innovation involves using a la-ser to create these incisions, which results in greater precision. Limbal relaxing incisions are good at reducing low amounts of astigmatism, but toric intraocular lens are better at reducing higher amounts of astigmatism. Some patients may have so much astigmatism that they required both methods.

Discuss with your eye doctor if you would benefi t from astigmatism correction at the time of cataract surgery.

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4 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com NEWS

By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Despite the recent withdrawal of House Bill 660, which would have created Forsyth County’s second city, Sharon Springs, the Board of Commissioners still reviewed a fiscal impact study on the proposed city.

The study was initially approved in September 2015 by the BOC for Geor-gia Tech to “examine the fiscal impact of the proposed city of Sharon Springs on county revenues and expenditures.”

Dr. Alfie Meek, the director for the Center for Economic Development Re-search at GT, spoke to the BOC Jan. 12 on the fiscal impact of Sharon Springs on Forsyth. The study used 2014 fi-nancial data, the most recent year data was available, and examined the fiscal impact on the county had the proposed city existed in 2014.

An earlier study was done on the city by the Sharon Springs Alliance. That study found the city to be fini-cally viable. Meek said that first study was more supportive of cityhood, but the two studies couldn’t be compared because they looked at two different areas. He said the BOC needs to look at questions asked and examine both perspectives.

The study found Sharon Springs would be the 17th largest city by pop-ulation in Georgia. It would represent 30 percent of the county’s population, 36 percent of the gross residential real property value, 35 percent of the gross commercial real property value, 18 per-cent of the gross industrial real prop-erty value and 34 percent of total gross real property value.

“Given the higher share of value

versus land area, it obviously contains some of the highest value property in the county,” Meek said.

As a “city light,” Sharon Springs would have had three services – solid waste, code enforcement and planning and zoning. Meek said there was no fis-cal impact with respect to solid waste. However, the county would have saved up to $769,384 from code enforcement and planning and zoning.

Conversely, the county would have lost up to $6,197, 918 on alcohol licenses, alcohol excise tax, business license and occupation tax, cable fran-chise fees, planning and zoning, and insurance premiums.

“Alcohol excise tax is based on the commercial digest in the proposed Sharon Springs area as a share of the unincorporated commercial digest,” Meek said. “Cable franchise fees and insurance premium tax are based on the population in the proposed Sharon Springs area as a share of the unincor-porated population.”

The net fiscal impact on county operating funds includes the lost insurance premium tax revenue and assumes that the county will continue to provide road engineering services to the proposed Sharon Springs area, Meek said.

“We have a $769,000 savings, but we’re going to lose $6.2 million roughly in revenue, which gives us a revenue gap of $5.4 million,” Meek said.

The net fiscal impact on the county’s general fund only does not include the lost insurance premium tax revenue, he said. Instead, this scenario assumes that Sharon Springs will either remit their insurance premium tax to the county and that the county will continue to provide road engineering services, or that Sharon Springs will provide these services to their area, Meek said.

Since 35.5 percent of the permits were in Sharon Springs, Meek said they esti-mate that the impact fee loss could have been approximately $1.5 million in 2014, which would have significantly slowed the pace of that part of the short-term work program dependent on impact fees.

“Your current millage rate, in 2014, is 4.182 on the general fund,” he said. “You would need about .623 mills to make up that difference. That would translate to about a 13 percent increase across the board on the property tax millage.”

County reviews Sharon Springs fiscal impact study

Sen. Williams holds town hall meeting, talks Sharon Springs amongst other topics. Read more, Pages 6 – 7.

Given the higher share of value versus land area, it obviously contains some of the highest value property in the county,”DR. ALFIE MEEKDirector for the Center for Economic Development Research at GT

Georgia Power opens new EV charging islandATLANTA — Georgia Power announced Jan. 8 the open-ing of a new electric vehicle charging island in Cumming. This marks the beginning of the second phase of planned charging infrastructure developed by the company that will include more than 60 community charging islands for public use statewide by the end of 2016.

The new EV charging island is located at Georgia Power’s new Cumming business office in the Cumming Market Vil-lage shopping center at 1648 Market Place Blvd. The charg-ing island makes it easy and affordable to charge EVs on the go with multiple options for EV drivers including a DC fast charger (CHADeMo/SAE combo plugs) as well as a Level 2, 208/240-volt charger.

“Georgia Power is proud to begin our second phase of the EV charging installations at our new Cumming business office,” said Doug Jenkins, Metro North region manager for Georgia Power. “We are committed to assisting customers with their EV energy needs and advancing Georgia as an EV-friendly state.”

The charging island accepts either a Georgia Power Card, powered by ChargePoint and available at GeorgiaPower.

In addition to developing public charging infrastructure, the company offers EV charger rebates for business and res-idential customers and a special rate for EV customers. To learn more about driving electric with Georgia Power or the locations of charging islands, visit: GeorgiaPower.com/EV.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 5

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By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Issues and concerns pertaining to Forsyth County were aired Jan. 11 at a town hall meet-ing hosted by Sen. Michael Williams and Rep. Sheri Gilligan at West Forsyth High School.

The two legislators started the meet-ing by saying what their primary concern is for this year’s session, both citing education.

After spending 20 years in the intel-ligence field, Gilligan said she started substitute teaching at Forsyth County Schools and later became a professor at Lanier Technical College.

“Teaching and helping people learn are some things I thrive on doing,” Gil-ligan said. “Even in the intelligence field there was a lot of training, I was helping people learn how to do the craft. Educa-tion is a natural for me. I’m one of those people who are very suspect as to what’s going on with their federal government overreaching into our school system. I want the local board to have more say in what’s going on.”

Williams echoed that sentiment by saying his No. 1 legislative agenda item for this session is “to attempt to pass a constitutional amendment that would allow all counties [in Georgia], especially

us up here in Forsyth County, to collect impact fees for education.

“It’s going to be an extremely difficult lift [at the Capitol], because last session I tried to talk to some people about it and there was not much of an appetite for that in some of the rural parts of Geor-gia. But we’ll see what we can do,” he said.

Town hall airs education, BOC, countywide voting concernsPHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

Sen. Michael Williams hosted a town hall meeting to discuss Forsyth County issues. About 20 people spoke at the meeting.

Rep. Sheri Gilligan spoke on her No. 1 topic, education.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 7NEWS

Town hall airs education, BOC, countywide voting concernsCountywide voting as opposed to the

current system of districtwide voting was frequently brought up, with Gilli-gan doing an informal poll to test the overwhelming support in the crowd for countywide voting. Williams addressed that concern and said the issue being faced with countywide voting is the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which is a piece of civil rights legislation that outlawed discrimi-nation based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Williams said he’s done quite a bit of research on that and there are 29 counties where either the board of com-missioners, board of education or cities within the counties tried to go back to countywide voting.

“Of those 29 counties, the courts overruled every single one of them,” Wil-liams said. “There are 47 different cases where the courts said ‘you can’t do that.’ I understand there is a strong desire for people to go back to countywide voting. I understand there is a feeling of misrepre-sentation and not feeling like your voices are being heard. We hear you at the state legislature. We are looking for solutions that will be long term. Not just short term, but solutions that will resolve the issue at the end. It’s something we are looking into it, but right now the facts are the courts would overrule it and we’d be right back where we are.”

The subject of creating Sharon Springs, a proposed second city in the county, was another hot topic of the night. Williams apologized for the “deba-cle of communication that happened over Sharon Springs over the past couple of months.”

He said the constitution of the state of Georgia allows for the creation of cities and, within that, gives the cities the abil-ity to provide 14-plus services.

“The bill to create Sharon Springs limited the services to three,” he said. “So you have the constitution that says you can do 14 or more, then you have the bill that will only do three. There’s a conflict. The constitution always wins. That’s why the bill was withdrawn.”

The good thing is, Williams said, the state of Georgia and the legislature real-ized the need for not full-blown cities but towns and villages where the BOC can have more say in zonings and land use of their communities.

“The possibility for a township or a village is a very real possibility,” Williams said. “There are forces at be that are trying to push through a constitutional amendment that would create towns and villages here in Georgia. If that happens, as soon as next year, we could move forward with another bill. There is light at the end of the tunnel. There are things that are happening.”

PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

Sen. Michael Williams hosted a town hall meeting to discuss Forsyth County issues. About 20 people spoke at the meeting.

8 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com OPINIONA lesson in Internet etiquette‘Netiquette’

This may be because of my age, but I assumed the unspoken rules of the Internet were common knowledge. Things like don’t post your address, phone number, po-tentially embarrass-ing photos or any-thing you wouldn’t want your grandma

to see. I also thought most people who surf the Web realize anything they put out there in cyberspace, including any-thing posted on their own private social media accounts, isn’t really private, per se.

That’s why I was taken aback when I heard about the former Johns Creek High School teacher who resigned in early January after criticiz-ing one of her students on Facebook. I thought, “No, surely this can’t be true. Doesn’t she know better?”

Whether she did or not is something we simply don’t know at this point. But what we do — or should — know is that no teacher, even one forced to stay hours late on the Friday before a holiday break, should post a Facebook rant filled with exple-tives and derogatory comments about a student.

One of the worst posts in my opinion was where the Latin teacher allegedly wrote “your life is tragic. Everything about you is tragic. I want to be sad for you, but at the end of the day, we’re all better now that you’re not around.”

These horrible statements came from a person that student was sup-posed to trust, but instead she made fun of him for things beyond his control. And she did this on Facebook where, in very short order, her words had made their way to her employer and, probably, most of the parents, staff and students at JCHS.

I’ll give her benefit of the doubt only in that she was probably annoyed be-cause it was the last day before winter break and she wanted to go home and the student was running very late. But

that does not give her an excuse to post what she did. I’m sure, if she’s friends with any of her colleagues, it was easy to figure out which student she was talking about.

I tried to determine her age to see if maybe that could be a bit of an excuse for why she might not know her Facebook posts would go viral. My grandmother, for instance, might not understand the consequences of putting questionable comments on social media. But, honestly, age doesn’t matter in this situation. No matter if you grew up online or if you are scared of technology, this type of thing should never happen.

In college, I had the fact drilled into my brain that anything you put online can and will be traced back to you. We were told that even if your profile is

“private,” a lot of em-ployers have the ability to break through that to see what you deem appropriate to post. I listened to lecture after lecture on not putting up any photos involv-ing alcohol (if you ever take a photo with me and alcohol is present I usually ask for the alcohol to be put down or behind a back), not using profanity and never badmouthing your employer.

I learned to just assume that anything bad said online about another person will eventually get back to them.

I knew people who countered that it was “their personal profile” so they should be able to say and post what-

ever they want on it. That simply isn’t true. Once it’s online, it’s pretty much public information. That’s why so many parents are cautious about what baby photos or status updates they put out there.

Being online can be fun and I’ll be the first to admit I probably am addicted to my phone and social media, like most people my age. But now that we live in a technological and easily accessible world, we can’t forget the basic rules we were raised on, like “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

And just like remembering the golden rule, we must also remember to think before we speak, or type and post in this case.

KATHLEEN STURGEONReporterkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

Once it’s online, it’s pretty much public information. That’s why so many parents are cautious about what baby photos or status updates they put out there.

I have never seen the nation so worked up and optimistic about anything as with the recent Power-ball craze.

With a jackpot larger than most countries’ an-nual budgets, the Powerball eclipsed just about every-

thing newswise in the nation for about two weeks. Everywhere you looked there were tips on how to pick lucky numbers, mathematical formulae sure to win, the dangers and legal pitfalls of winning and even actual winners saying alternately how great it is to win and how bad it can be.

Everyone was fantasizing about being a millionaire. I’m sure the most-asked question that week was, “What will you do if you win?”

Truly, it goes along with the idea that we, Americans, are just “tem-porarily embarrassed millionaires.” We love a good investment, and a few bucks for potentially millions (or billions!) is too good a chance to pass up.

The cynic might just believe it’s only the poor who get caught up in the hysteria, but no. Stories came in over the past few weeks of Buckhead families sending their maids out to get tickets armed with $100 bills. You can never be too rich to play the lottery, apparently.

We in the office had our own pool for tickets (we won $8!). Even we cyni-

cal news types were not immune from the hope that we could all be million-aires with only a slight investment.

We were not alone.Crowds of people lined up at gas

stations and grocery stores to play their odds. Favorite numbers, lucky charms and more came into play. In line to get my own ticket, I saw one man who kept some change in an old soda can. I’m sure there is a story behind it. When he ordered his numbers for his Powerball, he rattled the can to eke out some magic juju. He may have won something, but not the jackpot, so how powerful was that juju anyway?

We all have lucky talismans or dances or thoughts we believe can help us in a time of desire.

Of course it makes sense – we all want to be winners. Losing is for losers.

Which is why I think we can all dislike those jerks who won.

Powerball leads to power-craze

JONATHAN COPSEYEditorjonathan@appenmediagroup.com

The Jan. 13 Powerball jackpot hit a historic $1.6B, which was too large for most electronic signs to display.

Everyone was fantasizing about being a millionaire. I’m sure the most-asked question that week was, “What will you do if you win?”

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 9NEWS

By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — “Forsyth County was never in jeopardy of losing ambulance services.”

That’s what Forsyth County Board of Commissioner Chairman Pete Amos said Jan. 13 in an emergency called meeting. The meeting was called after the county’s renewal contract with Advanced Ambulance Service Inc. was given a 24-hour deadline. During the meeting, a unanimous vote approved a contract with a different provider, Central Emergency Medical Services, to assume emergency medical services beginning 9 a.m. Jan. 14.

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said he along with Fire Chief Danny Bow-man and members of the Forsyth County Fire Department and Advanced Ambulance employees met the morning of Jan. 13 to go over concerns on both sides. Advanced Ambulance had been the county’s provider since 2008.

Stuart Teague, the attorney for Ad-vance Ambulance CEO Stan Rutledge, said they weren’t trying to shut down ser-vices for the county. The issue was simply economics. He said Central is a larger am-

bulance company with more resources. “My client thought perhaps there

were some issues that weren’t related to the contract that the county was using the refusal to sign for,” Teague said. “But I don’t want to comment on those as the ambulance service will go forward and Central will come in as the new provider.”

On Jan. 4, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office reportedly executed a search warrant on Rutledge’s home and Advanced Ambulance’s office.

“We believe it was retaliation for

some political issues,” Teague said. “There is nothing there in regards to billing. There were some invoices the sheriff’s department didn’t want to pay. They were very minimal in relation to the services provided. The sheriff’s office came back and said they were investigating Medicare issues. Local sheriffs do not investigate Medicare, which sort of raised a lot of red flags.”

Officials from the sheriff’s office declined to comment on the reason for the investigation, but did confirm there were search warrants in relation to criminal activity.

With the signing of Central EMS, there will continue to be seven staffed ambulances throughout the county.

“Central EMS is pleased to have the full staffing and emergency vehicles available to immediately provide uninter-rupted ambulance coverage to Forsyth County,” said Central EMS President Gary Coker. “Central EMS’ exemplary staff of EMTs and paramedics are ded-icated to patient care and work hard every day to raise the bar on medical transport for our patients. We are excited to provide that high caliber of emergency 911 service to Forsyth County.”

In case the contract was not worked out, Amos said there is an emergency backup plan that Bowman and his staff are ready to initiate at any time, however he would not go into details as to what the plan is.

Chattanooga

Forsyth avoids termination of ambulance servicesCentral EMS is pleased to have the full staffing and emergency vehicles available to immediately provide uninterrupted ambulance coverage to Forsyth County.”GARY COKERCentral EMS President

10 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SCHOOLS

BY CANDY WAYLOCKcandy@appenmediagroup.com

ATLANTA —The conversation on how to fund Georgia’s schools and pay its teachers will likely start during this year’s legislative session, but don’t ex-pect any action until at least next year.

It is, after all, an election year, and with every seat in the House and Senate up for re-election, the focus may be more on the exit than headline-grab-bing issues.

Georgia law prohibits lawmakers from fundraising while in session, giving them a short window of cam-paigning before the May 24 primary election.

On the education front, the sweep-ing recommendations from the Educa-tion Reform Commission are on Gov.

Nathan Deal’s desk, but any major reform on how schools are funded or how teachers are will be on next year’s agenda, according to Deal.

During Deal’s State of the State address on Jan. 13, he told state law-makers he will take time to review the commission’s recommendations and urged them to do the same.

“During the 2016 session of the General Assembly, I wanted this legisla-tive body to conduct a full review of the commission’s recommendations. That is what I ask you to do,” said Deal, dur-ing his annual address.

He noted the state budget next year will include funding to implement his ed-ucation recommendations based on the Education Reform Commission report.

“This will provide ample time to vet the full report. It is important that we get this right,” he added.

A controversial recommendation of the commission is the elimination of Training and Experience pay for teachers, and allowing local districts to determine how to best compensate

teachers.Last year, Fulton Schools began

working on a salary formula, looking at a variety of tiers for pay based on evalu-ations, additional responsibilities and other factors.

One part of that formula was im-plemented this year – additional pay for teachers to work in low-performing schools.

Deal’s budget for fiscal year 2017 includes an additional $300 million for education, enough to provide a 3 per-cent raise for all teachers.

Unlike last year, when school systems had the option of using additional funding for raises or for other needs, that option is not avail-able this year. Systems which do not provide at least a 3 percent raise to teachers will see their funding cut next year.

Deal’s “FY17” education budget also includes $141 million for enroll-ment growth, $224 million in bonds for capital programs, $10 million in bonds for school buses, $2.8 million

to support information technology, and additional funding for nurses and newly certified math and science teachers.

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2016 Legislature unlikely to address teacher pay, school fundingTask force recommendations to be considered next year

During the 2016 session of the General Assembly, I wanted this legislative body to conduct a full review of the commission’s recommendations. That is what I ask you to do.”NATHAN DEALGeorgia governor

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 11SCHOOLS

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By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools has earned its first ac-colade of 2016. It was recently named the fifth-best school district in the state by Niche.com with an “A” overall rating. The website also said FCS is ranked 275th out of 8,014 school districts in the country.

The website says it “takes into ac-count key factors such as the strength of academics, quality of teachers, school resources, the quality of stu-dent life, as well as student and parent reviews, in an attempt to measure the overall excellence of the district.”

Academics were 50 percent of the grade (Forsyth received an A-plus), with health and safety given 10 per-cent (Forsyth received a B), parent/student surveys on overall experience at 10 percent, student culture and diversity graded at 10 percent (For-syth received a B), teachers grade at 10 percent (Forsyth received an A), resources and facilities at 5 percent (Forsyth received a B), extracurricular

and activities and 2.5 percent (Forsyth received a B), and sports and fitness at 2.5 percent (Forsyth received a B-plus).

Other areas scored were administra-tion and policies (Forsyth received an A-minus), educational outcomes (For-syth received an A) and food (Forsyth received a B-plus).

Most of the 36 schools themselves received an A or A-plus score, with Forsyth Central High School receiving a B-plus and iAchieve Virtual Acad-emy and North Forsyth High School receiving B’s. Cumming Elementary School, George W. Whitlow Elemen-tary School, Lambert High School, South Forsyth High School all re-ceived A-pluses.

Statistics included in the report were a 90 percent average graduation rate, 2.1 percent average high school dropout rate, 19 percent receiving free or reduced lunch, and a 17-to-1 student-teacher ratio. The county is 95 percent proficient in math and 99 percent proficient in reading, according to the website.

The other top-five school sys-tems included, in order, Buford City Schools, Decatur City Schools, Oconee County Schools and Calhoun City

Schools. Gwinnett County Schools ranked 10th, Fulton County Schools ranked 11th, Cobb County Schools ranked 15th, Gainesville City Schools ranked 35th and Hall County Schools ranked 45th.

Ranked 275th nationallyMost of the 36 schools themselves received an A or A-plus score, with Forsyth Central High School receiving a B-plus and iAchieve Virtual Academy and North Forsyth High School receiving B’s.

12 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com NEWS

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JCHS teacher resigns after Facebook rage

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A Johns Creek Latin teacher, disgruntled at having proctor tests for a student with a learn-ing accommodation, has resigned after posting several inflamma-tory remarks about the student on Facebook.

Jennifer Lynch ten-dered her resignation last week after being called in by the Fulton County Board of Education to explain several Facebook postings she made Dec. 18. She had been harping about staying late the last day of class because a student was taking so long on final exams.

The student has a defined learning accom-modation that requires the student to be allowed extended time to take final exams. The fact that the student elected to take all six exams on the last day apparently triggered a rage in Lynch that she vented on Facebook.

She became angry that he waited until the last day of the fall school se-mester to take all of his tests and thus kept her late into the afternoon. To pass the time, she fired off a number of postings.

At one point she posted: “He has some [expletive] disorder: one of those

‘we don’t know what his disorder is and we don’t want him to be labeled, so we are not going to find out, but we want academic accommodations anyway’ disorders.”

Lynch then posted, “On the way out, he says, ‘I’ll be the last student to walk through the doors of JCHS in 2015.’ No, that’s not funny, but tragic. Your life is tragic.”

While Lynch did not intend to distribute the postings beyond her circle of friends, parents did become aware of them and complained to Fulton County Schools. She was called in by FCS to account for her behavior and subsequently decided to resign.

In a statement from the Board of Education commenting on her be-havior, it said:

“We are appalled at the social media posts and the disrespect shown to a student. Ms. Lynch met with our Human

Resources Division on January 4 (the first day back for teachers) where she was notified that this behavior did not meet the standard of professionalism expected of all Fulton County teachers.

She decided to resign her position and is no longer employed by Fulton County Schools. Fulton County Schools does not monitor the personal social media of our staff but employees are accountable for their use of good judgement.”

— Hatcher Hurd

Posted belittling remarks on student’s learning disorder

The fact that the student elected to take all six exams on the last day apparently triggered a rage in Lynch that she vented on Facebook.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 13

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14 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SCHOOLS

BY CANDY WAYLOCKcandy@appenmediagroup.com

ATLANTA — Within the 86 pages contained in the report delivered to Gov. Nathan Deal from the Education Reform Commission are 58 recommen-dations on how to improve Georgia schools and the K-12 system as a whole – both academically and financially.

The blue-ribbon collection of edu-cators, business leaders and elected officials delivered the report to Deal in mid-December, following 12 months of studying the past, present and future of education in Georgia.

Committee Chairman Charles Knapp, retired president of the Uni-versity of Georgia, outlined the com-mittee’s work during a Jan. 8 media symposium hosted by the Georgia Part-nership for Excellence in Education.

Knapp acknowledged most of the media attention has been focused on how schools are funded and on teacher compensation, which actually make up only six of the 58 recommendations.

“There is much more to the commis-

sion report than the funding formula and teacher pay — there were three other subcommittees with [equally] important recommendations,” noted Knapp.

Those included early childhood education, Move on When Ready and expanding education options/school choice.

But how to ensure — and pay for — a quality education, and how to keep teachers from bailing out of the profes-sion in high numbers is at the center of the education bull’s-eye.

The committee was tasked with re-vising the 30-year-old funding formula for schools, known as Quality Basic Education, which has long been criti-cized for never being fully funded, too complicated and too rigid to adjust to the needs of local districts.

The task force recommends basing future funding in three areas: student enrollment, weighted student charac-teristics and category grants — as op-posed to the 19 areas currently funded under QBE.

“[The task force recommendations] are a vast improvement over QBE,” said Knapp. “The [recommended] formula is more flexible and can react to changes.”

Apart from a standard per-pupil

cost, weighted areas which would re-ceive additional funding include eco-nomically disadvantaged students, K-3 reading classes, grades 4-5 in math, and additional funding in grades 9-12 for college and career readiness courses.

Category grants would be provided to school districts to help fund fixed administrative costs, such as the Teacher Retirement System and health care costs, taking into consideration districts with low enrollment.

The task force also recommended permanently adding $258 million to the current K-12 state budget beginning in fiscal year 2018. Additionally, if funds are available, the committee recom-mended adding an additional $209 million to reduce the impact of the aus-terity cuts that systems have seen over the past decade.

The hot topic of how to recruit, retain and compensate teachers had 12 recommendations, with the most controversial one allowing school dis-tricts flexibility on how they pay their teachers.

Currently teachers are paid under a state formula that takes into consid-eration training and experience as the baseline. The committee recommended allowing school districts to develop

their own, state-approved, method of rewarding their best teachers.

“There has to be a better system than T&E, and I know there are a lot of concerns on how you measure effective-ness,” said Knapp. “But you just can’t throw your hands up and walk away because it’s complicated.”

He said the idea is for the state to have a “fairly light hand” in developing teacher pay models.

“The commission felt a lot of these decision were better made at the dis-trict level than in Atlanta,” said Knapp.

Education recommendations now on Gov. Deal’s deskThere is much more to the commission report than the funding formula and teacher pay — there were three other subcommittees with [equally] important recommendations.”CHARLES KNAPPCommittee Chairman

Task force outlines dozens of fixes to state schools

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 15

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16 | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016

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ROGER TUTTEROW, Kennesaw State University Economist

By HATCHER HURDhatcher@appenmediagroup.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Kennesaw State University economist Roger Tutterow, Ph.D., speaking at the Jan. 12 Syno-vus Economic Forecast at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek said the United States is in its seventh year of economic expansion since the 2008 meltdown.

While it may not feel as robust as we might like it, a slow, steady 2 per-cent growth rate is not a bad place to be. The economic growth in the country is still “timid,” but the slower pace has its advantages over a more gaudy 3 per-cent or higher.

“The United States economy is robust and economic indicators such as car sales are encouraging. People feel it’s safe to buy cars again,” Tutte-row said. “On the other hand, history tells us we are due a recession every 58 months on average in the post-World War II era.”

So it is fair to ask if the slower growth is postponing another economic correction. He says yes, since this “timid” recovery has been cautious and is not overheating.

After each recession since 1981-82 there has been a “super recovery” in the

gross national product. It grew 4.8 per-cent a year in the 1980s. After the 1991 recession the recovery grew an average 3.1 percent for five years. After 2001, it was nearly 3 percent.

So far the 2.2 percent average growth has been somewhat frustrating. We’ve weathered the recession, why are we not reaping better, faster growth? Last year we saw the economy do a lateral sidestep. It was down in the first quarter due to a perfect storm of snow-storms in the Midwest and East that shut the economy down.

“You can continue to remove the snow from the roads all day off I-95, but what do you do when you run out of places to dump it?” Tutterow said.

Meanwhile, a horrendous disrup-tion of the California ports over a labor strike had “ships circling in the Pacific like planes stacked over an airport” waiting to unload.

Nevertheless, the U.S. economy bounced back the next three quarters. This was due to a strong dollar – or at least the least-weakest currency, how-ever you want to look at it, Tutterow said.

“The dollar is the least dirty shirt in the hamper,” he said.

And it was helped by a resurgence of manufacturing in the U.S. Asian manufacturing has seen its workers close the wage gap with American work-ers. Also, their energy costs are rising. American manufacturing is proving more energy efficient.

“That is important because energy

costs are surpassing wage and salary costs,” Tutterow said. “While Asian wages are climbing, in America wages are moving laterally.”

The stronger dollar is great when you go to Paris to buy perfume, but the drawback is it makes American goods less competitive on the world market. So that tempers American manufactur-ing growth.

But employment is rising, and with it consumer spending. In November 2008 consumer confidence was at its lowest since 1980 and the so-called Reagan recession. But beginning in early 2014 and through 2015, con-sumer confidence has been in the 85 percent to 90 percent range, Tutterow

said.“Consumption spending is feeding

the recovery,” he said.Falling oil prices means fewer dol-

lars spent at the pump. As much as $2,000 a year per car is freed up for discretionary spending elsewhere. How far can gas prices fall?

Tutterow says that depends on the Saudis. In the past when the price of oil dropped below a certain point, the Saudis cut back on production. This time they are letting the price go into free-fall.

With the rise of their big enemy, Iran, back off sanctions and the Rus-

2016 promises slow, steady growth – and that’s OKKennesaw State economist says ‘timid growth’ better in long run

Synovus CEO of Georgia Rob Garcia, from left, stands with Roger Tutterow, Ken-nesaw State University professor of economics, and Synovus Chief Community Banking Officer D Copeland.

See GROWTH, Page 18

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 17BUSINESSPOSTS

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With “a diverse assortment of well-known brands and retailers,” Avalon will provide shoppers with an “un-matched shopping experience,” she said.

For more information about The Container Store Avalon, visit container-store.com. As part of the opening cele-bration, Miller said the store will donate 10 percent of its opening weekend sales to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

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When your sales reps are calling new clients to schedule meetings, are they using the right talk track? Have your sales reps focused some time early in the year to improve what they say to a potential client to generate interest? Improving your

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Small businesses that are selling to other businesses, often called B2B sales, have to create awareness and interest in the first 10 to 15 seconds when making a cold call. To make cold calling more effective, don’t just pick up the phone and make calls. Doing some homework to find out information

about the company can help you tailor your opening comments and make them relevant to their business.

Writing a script and practicing it so you know it without reading it is also a good idea. Once again, this doesn’t have to be a one-page novel. It needs to be short, to the point, and generate interest immediately. When cold calling a client you are not trying to sell your product or service.

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Editor’s note: The North Atlanta Business Post, an Appen Media Group publication, recently recognized 40 individuals under the age of 40 with outstanding accomplishments in their professional or extracurricular lives. Each week for the next 40 weeks, we will publish a profile showcasing one of these individuals. Visit NorthAtlanta BusinessPost.com for more info.

Age: 35Title/Company: President and founder of Forum Communications

“My family taught me the impor-tance of giving back at a very young age, a lesson I have carried with me throughout my career,” said Katie Mathis Dubnik, born and raised in Gainesville. She said she strives to be a servant leader in all that she does, including giving back to her commu-nity through involvement on boards, church and nonprofits. She received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Georgia and was in

the first class of the Leonard Leadership Scholars from Terry College of Business. She later attended Georgia State for mas-ter’s degrees in business administra-tion and health administration.

Three years ago, she founded Forum Communications, a full-service strategic marketing agency “helping nonprofits and businesses find their voice in a crowded marketplace.”

Since starting in 2013, the company has grown to five employees with 75 cli-ents. She said she tries to be a big-pic-ture person, keeping life in perspective.

“Life is too short to sweat the small stuff, so I try to place my focus on the things my life can impact,” she said. “Don’t get caught up in what everyone else around you is doing or thinks you should be doing. Focus instead on finding your passion, what really motivates you to get up each morning, and something you love doing, and then success will surely follow.”

DUBNIK

By JONATHAN COPSEYjonathan@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – While some good things come in small packages, some-times they need big containers. This is where The Container Store comes in. It will open its newest location – the third in Georgia – at Avalon in Alpharetta Feb. 20.

The new 23,500-square-foot location is next to Whole Foods in Avalon, along Old Milton Parkway, and will boast

more than 10,000 “multifunction and innovative products,” said Nina Miller, public relations coordinator for The Container Store.

“We want to improve the quality of life of our customers through the gift of organization and we’re excited to bring these elements to our new customers in Alpharetta,” she said.  

Miller said the new store, the chain’s 79th store nationwide, will hire about 40 positions. Both of the other Georgia locations are in the Atlanta area – Buckhead and Perimeter Mall.

Miller said Alpharetta was a perfect location for the new store.

“We value locations with a high

The Container Store coming to AlpharettaAvalon locationopens Feb. 20 Alpharetta’s The

Container Store by the numbers• 23,500 square feet• 40 new employees• 10,000 products• 16 lifestyle departments• 300 food storage solutions• 750 office products• 70 types of laundry hampers• 200 types of hangers

18 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com BUSINESSPOSTS

ATLANTA – Secretary of State Brian Kemp reminds officers and registered agents of corporate entities registered in Georgia that the annual renewal pe-riod opened Jan. 1 and closes at 11:59 p.m. Friday, April 1.

Georgia law requires all corpora-tions, limited liability companies and limited partnerships to file annual registrations with the secretary of state’s Corporations Division and pay the associated renewal fees.

If a business fails to renew by the deadline, it must pay a $25 late filing penalty fee or risk administrative dis-solution.

To make annual renewals easier, the secretary of state’s office has an-nounced a new and improved corpora-tions website at http://www.ecorp.sos.ga.gov.

This user-friendly, intuitive website does not require a username and password to log onto the page to renew a business, which eliminates the wide-spread problem of forgotten or mis-placed login credentials each year.

During the regis-tration period, officers and registered agents simply visit the web-site and select one of two options:

“One Click Annual Registration” if there are no changes to be made to their busi-ness filings.

Or “Express Annual Registration” if there are changes to be made, such as updated contact information for the business.

“As a small-business owner myself, the more time I’m stuck doing paper-work, the less time I have to focus on growing my business,” said Kemp. “Now, you just type in your business’s name or control number on the new website and breeze through checkout without having to track down a user-name and password.”

Customers can still log in to https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/Account to view or download their business’s in-formation in one convenient location.

All customers are encouraged to renew their existing corporate entities and provide at least one valid email address with their filing for future renewal notices and important notifi-

cations.In addition to e-registration on the

new corporations website, customers also have the option to file hard-copy annual registrations with checks or money orders by mail to:

The Georgia Secretary of State’s Office2 MLK Jr Drive, Suite 313 Atlanta GA 30334 You may also file the paperwork in

person at the Corporations Division in Atlanta.

Continued from Page 16

Growth:sians getting frisky in the Middle East, the Saudis may be willing to pay the price to starve the economies of their rivals.

It also makes it unattractive for the U.S. to invest in oil alternatives such as shale and fracking for natural gas, Tutterow said.

“The Arabs are worried about new U.S. oil exploration,” he said. “Add to that geopolitics and the Saudis are using oil as a way to curb American exploration and extremism in their part of the world.”

Consumers have noticed it, and as new-car sales rise, so have those of light trucks now that owners don’t get sticker shock every time they fill up.

Looking at all the data, Tutte-row sees another year of 2.5 percent growth.

The dizzying growth in the energy states is quickly slowing. The enthusi-asm for the Canadian pipeline is wan-ing as energy costs fall.

“The oil boom is over for them,” he said.

The Atlanta market is getting stronger, jobs are on the rise. Tutterow says there are now 2.6 million workers in the Atlanta metropolitan statistical area. That is helping fuel new home construction.

“The biggest problem with home construction is the lack of supply for new lots,” he said.

Kemp reminds Ga. businessesannual renewal registration due‘One Click,’ ‘Express’ portals let companies e-file paperwork

KEMP

As a small-business owner myself, the more time I’m stuck doing paperwork, the less time I have to focus on growing my business.”BRIAN KEMPSecretary of State

By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — In an ef-fort to help mitigate some of Forsyth County’s growing pains, the Board of Commissioners is working on a resolu-tion to send to the local delegation.

One part of the resolution in-cludes the potential replacement of the county’s planning commission with subarea planning commissions. This was discussed December 2015 and it was decided more public input would be needed before any decisions were made.

Other portions included “provide a means for greater citizen input directly to the Board of Commissioners within the context of zonings, with the ability of any new subarea planning commis-sion to recommend additional public hearings before the board,” “establish-ing a right of way landscaping/beau-tification program for Forsyth County arterial corridors and exit/on ramps

along Ga. 400 in all districts,” and “sponsoring a program where unincor-porated communities in Forsyth County may erect roadway signage identifying the community name.”

A fifth portion of the resolution was brought up again at the Jan. 12 BOC work session, which reads, “estab-lishing and imposing conditions for residential zonings that will stagger res-idential build out until certain school system improvements are completed.”

“We’ve done this before where we say only so many permits out in a calendar year, mainly for the schools,” Commissioner Brian Tam said. “So if you look at the year 2018, the plan is a new nontraditional high school opens, that’s 3,400 seats. It seems like we’re a little tight in building.”

Commissioner Jim Boff brought up the idea of asking the delegation to come up with a stricter law to allow “us to have more legal cover if we do limit building permits in general.

“Especially if we can say ‘this school

is already overcrowded and this one, too,’” Boff said. “So in these areas will be one of the reasons we stagger the building permits.”

However, County Attorney Ken Jarrard said that’s not something for the local delegation to do, one way or another. It also is on a case-by-case basis as every district is different.

“It is a local issue,” Jarrard said.

“There are some things the local delega-tion can help in terms of how the board operates, but I think the board has all the tools it needs for staggering build-ing permits.”

Commissioner Todd Levent said he would look into the case-by-case basis and will bring back a proposal to a future work session.

Forsyth considers spacing building permits

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 19NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHT

Connect Hearing opens hearing health care facilityBusiness name: Connect Hearing (for-merly Atlanta Hearing Aid Services)Opened: Serving the Atlanta Area since 1948 and now introducing Connect Hearings’ new state-of-the-art hearing health care facility.Owner: Connect Hearing (Division of Sonova) What: Hearing loss affects one in three people over the age of 60. As the stron-

gest network of hearing care profes-sionals in the country, Connect Hearing has the expertise, a full line of state-of-the art hearing aids and provides truly innovative hearing solutions to fit every budget.Address: 10800 Alpharetta Highway, No. 198, Roswell, Ga 30188Phone: 770-992-5353Website: connecthearing.com

Harken Health opens in RoswellBusiness name: Harken HealthOpening: January 2016What: Harken Health unites remarkable primary care with competitively priced insurance plans.

Hours: 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road, RoswellPhone: 404-855-2242Website: www.harkenhealth.com

Extra Mile Tire Pros opens in MiltonBusiness name: Extra Mile Tire ProsOpened: May 4, 2015Owner: Richard EhlerWhat: Extra Mile Tire Pros provides full-service auto care, 15-minute oil changes and express emissions in ad-dition to a lowest-price guarantee on all

brands of tires, plus a free oil change offer. Address: 2875 Bethany Bend, Milton, Ga 30004Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.Phone: 678-566-6627 Website: www.extramiletirepros.com

Fit Body Boot Camp opens in AlpharettaBusiness name: Alpharetta Fit Body Boot CampOpened: Oct. 5, 2015Owner: Rene Serrate What: Fit Body Boot Camp is the world’s fastest-growing and most popular indoor fitness boot camp brand, with hundreds of locations worldwide. The boot camp’s unique brand of fitness combines individual-ized personal training from licensed

professionals, clinically proven after-burn workouts and nutritional guidance to guarantee weight loss results.Hours: 5:30 a.m.-9:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; Satur-day 8 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. Address: 488 N Main Street, Al-pharetta, 30009Phone: 404-850-1462 Website: www.alpharettafbbc.com

20 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com CALENDAR

EVENTS:

FORSYTH COUNTY WOMEN’S CLUB MONTHLY LUNCHEONWhat: Luncheons are on the third Thursday of each month and member-ship is open to all women of Forsyth and surrounding counties. When: Thursday, Jan. 21, 11 a.m.Where: Windermere Golf Club, 5000 Davis Love Drive, CummingCost: $22More info: forsythcountywomensclub.net

EMERGENCY SURVIVAL PREPAREDNESS EVENTWhat: The American Heritage Society of Georgia is holding an emergency sur-vival preparedness event to prepare the public for any type of emergency.When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, GA 30009More info: email info@AmericanHeri-tageSocietyofGeorgia.com

FREE YOUTH BASEBALL INJURY PREVENTION WORKSHOPWhat: Emory Sports Medicine will hold a workshop on ways to prevent baseball injuries in young athletes. When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 8:30-11:30 a.m.Where: Emory Orthopaedics, Sports & Spine at Johns Creek Hospital, 6325 Hospital Parkway, Johns Creek, 30097More info: emoryhealthcare.org/sports-medicine/index.html

FREE FAMILY REUNION WORKSHOPWhat: The expert staff at the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau will offer a free family reunion workshop.When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.Where: Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta, 5750 Windward Parkway, AlpharettaMore info: awesomealpharetta.comSelf-Defense Workshop for K-5th Grad-ersWhat: Two-hour workshop for boys and girls in K -5th grade teaches partici-pants to recognize and avoid dangerous

situations and people, and to escape an attacker if necessary. Includes full-force physical self-defense practice. Parents attend with children.When: Sunday, Jan. 24, 3-5 p.m.Where: Alpharetta YMCA, 3655 Preston Ridge Road, AlpharettaCost: $25 More info: revvedupkids.org/event/k-5th-self-defense-workshop/?instance_id=16605

SLITHERIN’ INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH REPTILESWhat: The Chattahoochee Nature Center kicks off their 40th anniversary year and celebrates with a day devoted to reptiles. Jason Clark with Southeastern Reptile Rescue will bring his dynamic live reptile shows and the amazing “Reptile Wagon,” a traveling reptile exhibit including ven-omous and nonvenomous snakes.When: Sunday, Jan. 24, noon-4 p.m. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell More info: chattnaturecenter.org

ALPHARETTA TOASTMASTERS CLUB SPEECH CONTESTWhat: Alpharetta Toastmasters will hold its International Speech and Table Topics contest.When: Wednesday, Jan. 27, 7:15 p.m.-8 p.m.Where: Kroger, 12870 Ga. 9, Al-pharetta, GA 30004 (second-floor employee training room). More info: alpharettaclub.toastmaster-sclubs.org

ROSWELL COLLECTING FOR TROOPSWhat: The Roswell Rotary Club, the city of Roswell and the Roswell Visi-tors Center is collecting donations for troops.  This year’s recipients are the 1st Battalion 7th Marines, 1st Division in Iraq. When: Drop off donations by 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29. Where: Roswell Visitors Center, 617 Atlanta St., RoswellMore info: 770-640-3253, visitros-wellga.com

ROSWELL RESTAURANT WEEKEnjoy this citywide event that encourages locals to try new dining options and invites new customers to the Roswell restaurant scene. Roswell Restaurant Week highlights the diverse culinary experiences Roswell has to offer. Sunday. Jan. 25 - 31. Visit roswellrw.com for more info.

Looking to get the word out about your event? Email us with photo and description of your event to calendar@appenmediagroup.com.

15TH ANNUAL ROSWELL ROOTS FESTIVALWhat: One of the largest and most com-prehensive celebrations of black history and culture in the Southeast, the festival will feature a variety of events, beginning with “Kuibuka,” artist talk and reception. When: Saturday, Jan. 30, 3-5 p.m.Where: Bulloch Hall,Cost: FreeMore info: roswellroots.com

ROSWELL MARDI GRAS BALLWhat: The Krewe of Viola will present the inaugural Roswell Mardi Gras Ball, Bow Ties & Pearls, to benefit Emory ALS Center.When: Feb. 6, 2016, 7-11 p.m.Where: Country Club of Roswell, 2500 Club Springs Drive, RoswellMore info: facebook.com/roswellmardi-grasball

BARNES & NOBLE STORY TIMEWhat: Children’s story timeWhen: Generally Tuesdays, though some locations offer Saturdays, as wellWhere: Barnes & Noble (check website for location and hours)Cost: FreeMore info: barnesandnoble.com

BARNES & NOBLE STORY TIMEWhat: Children’s story timeWhen: Tuesdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.Where: Barnes & Noble, 7660 North Point Parkway AlpharettaCost: FreeMore info: barnesandnoble.com

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:GEORGIA ENSEMBLE THEATRE’S ‘CHARLEY’S AUNT’What: Georgia Ensemble Theatre, North Fulton’s only professional theater company, will kick off the New Year with a play that’s sure to be the cure for the post-holiday doldrums, the hi-larious comedy, “Charley’s Aunt.”When: Jan. 7-24, times varyWhere: GET, the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., RoswellTickets: $26 for Wednesdays, Thurs-days and matinees; Friday nights start from $30, and Saturday nights start from $35; senior/student discounts available for select performancesMore info: www.get.org, or call 770-641-1260

ROSWELL VISITORS CENTER FEATURES ARTISTS’ WORKSWhat: Works by two of North Fulton’s highly regarded artists, Joan Hilliard and Barry Etris, will be on exhibit, with originals available for purchase as well as a selection of prints.When: Through February Where: Roswell Visitors Center, 617 Atlanta St., Roswell, GA 30075More info: visitroswellga.com

HOME BY DARK CONCERTWhat: Since 2007, Home by Dark has captivated audiences with one of the most powerful and unique concert events in America.When: Friday, Jan. 22Where: Roswell Historic Cottage, 972 Alpharetta St., RoswellMore info: homebydark.com

SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS CLASSES, NEW EXHIBITWhat: Spring quarter registration opens; “Sights & Insights” exhibit opens.When: Registration begins Tuesday, Jan. 27; new exhibit opens Wednesday, Jan. 28Where: Spruill Center for the Arts, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, AtlantaMore info: spruillarts.org

FREE TAI CHI CLASSWhat: A tai chi class will be offered to improve muscle tone and help prevent falls and improve balance, with instruc-tor Bruce Watson.When: Thursday, Jan. 28, 10:45–11:45 a.m.Where: Forsyth Parks & Rec at Old AtlantaMore info: 770-205-4646

LIBRARY EVENTS:For a complete list of North Fulton events, go to afpls.org/eventsFor a complete list of Forsyth events, go to forsythpl.org/event Calendar/eventCalendar.aspx

FINANCIAL WELLNESS WORKSHOPWhat: Come learn how to make sure that all of your financial needs are cov-ered. Adults. Registration required.When: Saturday, Jan. 23. 11 a.m.    Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Hol-comb Bridge Road, Roswell 30076More info: 404-613-4050

DONUTS WITH DADS STORYTIMEWhat: This is a special storytime. Dads, bring your little ones for sto-ries, songs and snacks. Registrations required.  When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 11 a.m.Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402

SELECTING COLLEGES THAT BEST FIT YOUR GOALSWhat: You have your criterion. You’ve checked rankings, researched websites and visited campuses. To make sure you’re making the right decision, consider the college’s perspective. Parents Welcome. Ages 14-18.When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 2:30 p.m.Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek 30005More info: 770-360-8897

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 21CALENDAR

A few weeks ago we looked at trout fishing in Georgia’s Unicoi State Park near Helen. But there’s more to Unicoi than trout. The park is popular with hikers, too, offering trails ranging from easy loops to ambitious

cross-country hikes that take you deep into the woods.

One of my favorites is the Unicoi to Helen Trail. An easy to moderate, it goes cross-country from the park for about 2.5 miles to the town of Helen. You can hike it (one way) in about an hour and a half. Trail maps are available at the park, or check out the detailed trail guide in the book, “Hiking Unicoi,” available from local outfitters or from www.chattahoochee-media.com.

Like other Unicoi hikes, this one begins behind Unicoi Lodge where a large sign marks the trailhead. Start by descending a long run of steps to a cross trail. Turning left would put you on the Lake Loop Trail (another great hike), while turning right ultimately takes you to the Unicoi to Helen Trail.

After turning right, you’ll soon spot the Frog Pond Loop Trail on the left, but stay on the main trail. Soon, the Frog Pond Loop appears again; beyond it, you’ll pass tennis courts and cross Unicoi Bottom Road.

Across the road, continue into the woods. The Bottoms Loop Trail (fantastic when spring wildflowers are blooming, by the way) swings left. But continue straight ahead, soon descending to a large field. The trail follows the field’s edge for a ways, then re-enters the woods.

After crossing a footbridge over a small branch, you’ll intersect the other end of the Bottoms Loop Trail. There the Unicoi to Helen Trail

crosses Smith Creek. Across the creek the trail goes left, then turns left again and crosses Smith Creek one more time while a mountain bike and fisherman’s trail follows the creek downstream.

Beyond that second creek crossing (and past another bike trail intersec-tion) you’ll switchback your way up a ridge. At the top, you’ll cross the bike trail again. Eventually you’ll cross the bike trail once more; beyond that point the hiking trail crosses a little creek and then follows it downstream. Look for a small cascade about 125 paces beyond the crossing. It’s a very pleasant and serene setting.

But soon, through the trees to your right, civilization reappears in the form of a large green water tower. Then you’ll intersect White Strasse (paved) and follow it downhill for per-haps 25 paces before re-entering the woods on your left. From there, it’s only a short hike to Unicoi Hill Park and the end of this trail.

What happens then? Some leave a car at Unicoi Hill Park and shuttle back to the state park. But others simply turn around and backtrack for a nice five-mile round trip — though they may hike down White Strasse to Main Street and downtown Helen first. That can make for a refreshing break before you head back into the woods!

Steve Hud-son has written numerous books on fishing, hiking, the outdoors and more, including “Hiking Unicoi,” a guide to the trails of Unicoi State Park and Anna Ruby Falls. Check them out at www.chattahoocheemedia.com.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CREDIT What: Do you know how credit works? Are you confused about the credit cards that you have? Amy Terry, branch man-ager of Renasant Bank, will discusses these topics and answer questions.When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 2 p.m.Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402

GIRLS DO SCIENCE!What: This is a fun hands-on STEM program for girls who want to explore the fascinating world of science. Girls from Milton High School will help par-ticipants make science crafts and build cool contraptions. Girls ages 7-12.When: Sunday, Jan. 24, 2:30 p.m.Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402

PSAT REVIEW: HOW TO USE YOUR PSAT EXPERIENCE TO GET YOUR HIGHEST SAT SCORE!What: Applerouth Tutoring Service will present a review of students’ PSAT scores to help them get great SAT results! Bring your PSAT results to get the most out of this program. Ages 12-16. Registration required. When: Tuesday, Jan. 26, 6 p.m. Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 30022More info: 770-360-8820

NORTH FULTON COMMUNITY CHARITIES MOBILE OUTREACH BUSWhat: The mobile outreach bus pro-vides emergency assistance via the NFCC mobile unit every fourth Wednes-day, particularly for families with trans-portation challenges. When: Jan. 27, 10-4 p.m.Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek 30005More info: www.nfcchelp.org or call 770-640-0399 (ext. 463). Appointments only. 

FRIENDS OF NE/SPRUILL OAKS LIBRARY WINTER BOOK SALE      What: Wide range of books and me-dia for sale at super prices! Donations welcome. When: Preview sale for Friends, mem-bers only, Thursday, Jan. 28, 1-5 p.m. Memberships available at the door. Public sale Friday, Jan. 29, 1-4 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m.-4p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 31, 2-4 p.m. Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 30022More info: 770-360-8820

NATURALIZATION WORKSHOPWhat: Sponsored by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, this work-shop presented by Edly Vliet shares information needed about the U.S. naturalization process. Adults only. No reservations required. Free and open to

the public.When: Saturday, Jan. 30, 10:30-11:30 am.Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek 30005More info: 770-360-8897

ALPHARETTA BOOK-TO-ACTION GROUPWhat: This book group is more than a simple book club; it’s a call to action for all ages!  Each month’s books will high-light a need in the community and offer a way for participants to help. January’s books will focus on hunger, poverty, and how hard times can hit anyone, anywhere. A food drive will accompany the readings and all food donated will be presented to North Fulton Commu-nity Charities to feed the hungry in our community. We are seeking donations of nonperishable items, no glass contain-ers. Please stop by the library to pick up available copies of this month’s books.When: Saturday, Jan. 30, 1 p.m.Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta 30009 More info: 404-613-6735

WEDDING PLANNINGWhat: Now that you are engaged it’s time to plan for your special day! There’s a lot of work to do. Let us show you how.When: Saturday, Jan. 30, 3 p.m.Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402

PET ADOPTIONS:FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTERWhat: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth CountyMore info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICESWhat: Pet adoptionsWhen: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m., PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, AlpharettaAdditional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sun-day 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd NW, AtlantaMore info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE:‘WILD AFRICA’ AT FERNBANK MUSEUMWhat: BBC Earth’s “Wild Africa,” nar-rated by Helena Bonham Carter and taking viewers on a spectacular ride across, over and through the most dra-matic continent on earth, premieres.When: Friday, Jan. 8-May 19, times varyWhere: 767 Clifton Road, AtlantaMore info: fernbankmuseum.org/

STEVE HUDSONGet Outside Georgia, Chattahoochee Media Group

Explore the Unicoi to Helen Trail

22 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SCHOOLS

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NORTH FULTON, Ga. – What is now the largest university in the state officially opened the doors to its North Fulton campus Jan. 14.

What was once two institutions of higher learning in two buildings across the street from each other has now been joined under one flag - Georgia State University.

“This is a very exciting time for Georgia State,” said GSU President Mark Becker. “We can better give students access and success in educa-tion.”

The merger of GSU and Georgia Pe-rimeter College was announced in early 2015 and created the largest university in the state – with 50,000 students.

The GSU Alpharetta campus enrolled 2,189 students in the fall of 2015; a 4.7 percent increase over 2014.  Since 2009, the number of GSU students attending Alpharetta’s four-

year undergraduate programs has more than doubled, jumping from 1,019 to 2,189.

GPC, a two-year college, first began serving students in Alpharetta in 2000, using rented classroom space at GSU’s facility before opening its own dedicated building in 2010.

Now, both will share the GSU logo and will be used for classrooms for North Fulton students pursing a range of degrees.

Dr. Peter Lyons, dean of Perimeter College of GSU, said students attending the North Fulton campus will now have access to resources previously only available to those downtown.

“Students downtown take fewer credits to graduate,” he said, saying the school has moved from a “cafeteria” model of course offerings to a “guided pathway” model. In effect, rather than simply choosing what course they want to take each semester, they will be able to see what courses fit in with their degrees and which would not count, ideally expediting their education.

The HOPE scholarship only covers 127 hours of schooling, he said. After that, it is up to the student to find the money. Students who taks too long to graduate may never finish.

“Students are seven times more

likely to drop out of Georgia State due to financial reasons than academic,” he said. “Saving students money is helping them graduate and that’s the business we are in.”

Perimeter campus merges under Georgia StateNorth Fulton campus under new banner

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

Pounce the Panther cheers on Geor-gia State University President Mark Becker for the opening of the GSU North Fulton campus Jan. 14.

Students are seven times more likely to drop out of Georgia State due to financial reasons than academic. Saving students money is helping them graduate and that’s the business we are in.”MARK BECKERGSU President

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 23

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24 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleensturgeon@gmail.com

ATLANTA — Students perfected their dance moves, practiced their lines and prepared for the 2016 National Junior Theater Festival. And this year was a big one for Forsyth’s actors.

Schools from around the nation and world sent their top talent to Atlanta Jan. 16-17 to compete and a few local acting troupes were in attendance, including Riverwatch Middle School, South Forsyth Middle School, Christian Youth Theater, Suwanee Performing Arts, First Redeemer Conservatory of Music and Arts, Play on Players and Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts.

Play on Players was awarded Out-standing Performance, which was given to just nine of the 115 groups attend-ing. The winners went on to perform one song from their 15-minute compe-tition on the main stage the last day, in front of all 5,835 participants.

Other Forsyth schools and students winning awards include: • Excellence in Ensemble: Riverwatch

Middle School• Excellent Individual Female: Kris-

ten Dickey, South Forsyth Middle School

• Excellent Individual Female: Alyssa Yard, Christian Youth Theater

• Outstanding Student Director/Stu-dent Choreographer: Evie Lawson, Christian Youth Theater

• Excellence in Dance: Christian Youth Theater

• Excellence in Dance: Forsyth Acad-emy of Performing Arts

• Excellent Individual Male: First Redeemer Conservatory of Music and ArtsIn addition to the groups’ awards,

Daniel Miller with SPA was one of two students awarded the $500 Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Scholarship.

But students weren’t the only win-ners. Carly Berg, who codirects Play on Players and is also Acting Troupe of Lambert’s community director, and co-director Haden Rider also were awarded the Broadway Junior Spirit Award, which grants the directors/theater a $5,000 award as well as a four-day event in New York City over the sum-mer with Broadway professionals such as Bernadette Peters and Steven Sond-

heim. Freddy and Myrna Gershon, the founders of the award, and the iThe-atrics team chose the pair themselves without the two having to apply.

To prepare for the upcoming com-petition, RMS participated in a preper-formance held at Lambert High School Jan. 13. This was the second year LHS put on the showcase, according to Ryan Watson, director for the Acting Troupe of Lambert.

“We started doing it to collaborate more and allow our middle schools to see what our middle schools are doing and high schoolers to see what mid-dle schoolers are doing,” Watson said. “Riverwatch feeds directly into Lambert and we wanted to do more to grow that connection between schools, especially the drama programs. It’s a great oppor-

tunity for our high schoolers to support the middle schoolers so they continue theater arts.”

It also gives groups an extra perfor-mance opportunity with a new audience and feedback to get them excited for the upcoming event, Watson said. He said he saw some exceptional performances, performers who were engaged and unique perspectives on shows many know and love.

One of those performers is Hope Flower, a seventh-grader at RMS who played Belle in the school’s perfor-mance of “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” She said her sisters all were in Rey-nolds’ classes so growing up she was surrounded by musical theater. This year’s event was her second to attend, but she said she was so excited she couldn’t sleep.

“I love the bond you create with all your friends you make through it,” Flower said. “As Mrs. Reynolds says, ‘Enjoy the moment.’ So I just try to enjoy it.”

Aside from the awards excitement, Reynolds said the kids have the time of their lives during the weekend of the musical competition, as it’s like a family reunion.

“They love going,” Reynolds said, prior to the event. “It is such a positive drama environment. Everyone is so encouraging. The judges will talk to the kids and give them pointers and acco-lades. The kids feel like a million bucks. The kids encourage each other. That’s what it’s all about.”

Forsyth schools shine at national musical theater competitionPHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF

Students from Riverwatch Middle School, North Gwinnett Middle School and Lambert High School pose after the performances end.

Hope Flower kisses Drew Davison during the performance of “Beauty and the Beast.”

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 25

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26 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com COMMUNITY

By KATHLEEN STURGEONkathleen@appenmediagroup.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Helping animals is at the core of the Humane Society of Forsyth County. And in 2015, they helped many animals — so many, in fact, that they exceeded their goal with a record adoption year dur-ing which 1,451 cats and dogs found homes.

These animals were all either res-cued from local kill shelters in Georgia or via the HSFC’s owner surrender program, according to Mark Schullstrom, president of the HSFC. The owner surrender program provides an alterna-tive location other than a kill shelter for someone to release ownership of their pet and guarantee a safe and loving home is found.

“In addition to adopting out 1,451 dogs and cats in 2015, the HSFC completed the 20,000th adoption since the founding of the organization in December of 1975,” Schullstrom said. “This was an amazing milestone for our organization and our amazing support-ers.”

Everyday operations, however, were

not without hiccups. In 2014 the HSFC realized they faced a challenge with their growth during the previous five years.

“We were running out of room to keep the number of animals we were rescuing, and it was costing more money than we could generate to care for them,” he said. “Throughout 2014 we created a strategy using proven methods by other organizations across

the country to change the way we do animal rescue, which in 2015 we were able to execute fully for the first time. The focus was to in-crease the number of animals we help, not the amount of animals we have at any given time.”

For most, the change was con-fusing and coun-terintuitive, but one of the errors that many inde-pendent rescues make, he said, is believing that, to help more animals,

they need to figure out how to have more animals in their program at once.

“The truth is it is not about how many animals you have in your pro-gram, it’s how fast you can find homes for the animals you have,” Schullstrom said. “We felt that we could reduce the

average length of stay for each animal we rescued and place them into safe and loving homes by actually reducing our daily inventory levels. The result of this strategy allows you to have more staff and volunteers per animal in your care. More staff and volunteers per animal allows for more training, better medical care, and a better ability to un-derstand the animals’ needs and com-municate that to potential adopters.”

What the HSFC didn’t expect was the huge impact this would have across so many areas of their program, he said. The adoptions grew by almost 20 percent just in the second half of 2015, with the average length of stay for each animal that came through the program reduced by over 50 percent, and the adoption success rate increased by over 5 percent. Operational costs were greatly reduced per animal, meaning the HSFC could actually afford to save more than projected. This also helps with potential donors by showing them the HSFC is maximizing donations.

As always, Schullstrom said, the lo-cal community played a big part in the organization’s great success in 2015. The HSFC relies heavily on volunteers, donors and adopters to keep their dream alive, to make sure every animal has a loving home.

“Although Forsyth is growing at an amazing rate, we still have a small-town feel,” he said. “Local business owners and county government officials have always gone out of their way to support what we do, which is very im-portant. Through the nation there are many communities that look at animal

welfare as a cost to the community, and something that you have to do. In Forsyth County there is a feeling that animal welfare is something that we do because we want to, not because we have to. There has always been, and will continue to be a strong support for groups like ours in this community.”

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Humane Society has record adoption year2015 saw 1,451 adopted; 20,000th adoption since founding

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The Humane Society’s Pooches on the Patio event last spring at Rucker Pet yielded many adoptions.

Throughout 2014 we created a strategy using proven methods by other organizations across the country to change the way we do animal rescue, which in 2015 we were able to execute fully for the first time.”

MARK SCHULLSTROMPresident of the HSFC

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 27COMMUNITY

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Come in to the Forsyth County Humane Society and adopt the adorable Margo and you just may be able to check off some of your New Year’s resolutions. Resolve to help your community more?

Adopting from the HSFC is a huge help. Wanting to find love? Margo is full of it. And if you’re looking to get healthier, having a pet can lower your blood pressure, and help de-stress you in a healthy way. Margo is a beauti-ful young orange tabby, which is a bit uncommon.

This special kitty can’t wait to begin her new year in a loving home. Make 2016 and beyond the best for you both. Fill out an adoption application on Margo at forsythpets.org.

There are several new faces in the HSFC cat rooms for the new year. One new guy is Bronx, a young male orange and white tabby.  He’s a little bit nervous in his new surroundings but he loves playing. He would make an awesome pet for a lucky person or family, and he will be so happy to know the love of a home. Come in and adopt an easy way to ensure your 2016 starts off in a great way, with lots of love. Meet Margo and Bronx in the cat rooms at our adoption center, 4440 Keith

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28 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SPORTS

By JOE PARKERnews@appenmediagroup.com

MACON, Ga. — The Team Dual State Wrestling Championships took place in Macon Jan. 14-16 with four local teams competing for state titles. Lambert, North Forsyth, Blessed Trinity and St. Francis competed at the tournament at the Macon Centreplex.

After winning their fifth consecutive region duals championship on Jan. 9, the Raiders finished runner-up in Class 6A at the state championships. The second-place finish was North Forsyth’s best since a third-place finish in 2002.

North began their tournament with a 33-30 win over Brookwood. The Raiders then led Rockdale County 19-16 before winning five of their last six matches to take the win, 44-19.

In the semifinals, North would be tied 23-23 with Mountain View entering the final match in the 220-pound divi-sion. Hunter Loyd would win his match by decision to earn the Raiders 3 points and a spot in the state championship.

Facing Archer in the finals, North jumped out to a 9-0 lead before Archer compiled two wins, including one by injury, to tie the score at 9-9.

The score would remain tied at 18-18 after sophomore Bradley Thomas won his match in the 152-pound divi-sion. However, Archer was able to run away with the victory, winning four of the final six matches to deny North the state championship and win 37-30.

Also in Class 6A, Lambert opened their weekend with a single-point victory over Tift County, the Region 1 champions. The win was secured by a pin from junior Eric Kohlins.

In an email, Lambert Head Coach Kevin Contardi said, “Looking at the matchups on paper, I had it tied. We actually got in a hole worse than what I had thought earlier on, but we had a strong performance at the end to get the win.

“Every point counts in duals. We had some guys win big and some that got beat but didn’t give up bonus points. It was a big team effort and was very exciting.”

However, the excitement was short lived as Lambert would be on the other end of another single-point victory as they lost 33-34 to Pope in the next round.

In the consolation bracket, Lambert would beat Hillgrove 33-32 and Collins Hill 33-30, but fell to Mountain View 38-24 to finish sixth in the tournament.

Blessed Trinity opened their tour-nament with a 38-33 win over Spen-cer but were then beaten by Ringgold 52-21. In the consolation bracket, the Titans would lose to Calhoun, 32-33.

St. Francis was dominated by Treut-len, 65-12, in the opening round of the Class A championships. The Knights beat Mount de Sales 60-21 in the con-solation bracket but it would be their only win of the tournament as they fell 56-24 to eventual third-place-finishing Trion.

The traditional area tournaments will begin Jan. 29. The top four wres-tlers from each weight class will qualify for the sectional tournament which will take place Feb. 5-6 before the tradi-tional state championships are held Feb. 11-13 at the Infinite Energy Center in Duluth. North Forsyth will host the Region 6 Area 6 traditional area tour-nament.

Local schools compete in Team Dual State Wrestling ChampionshipsNorth Forsyth finishes second in state in 6A

North Forsyth junior Jackson Bardall (right) takes down an opponent from Rockdale County. Bardall would win the match by fall.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 29

30 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SPORTS

Rivalry renewed: King’s Ridge late rally denies Pinec rest the upset

By JOE PARKERnews@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — After what King’s Ridge Head Coach Scepter Brownlee called a “sluggish” start, King’s Ridge (12-5, 6-2) was able to deny Pinecrest Academy (8-11, 1-6) an upset with a fourth-quarter rally to win 56-52 on Jan. 16.

After the win, Brownlee said, “We got off to a sluggish start today, and it could have been that we are used to playing [night] games, but we had a good second half tonight. I’m very proud of their performance.”

Brownlee also weighed in on the series rivalry, and the high intensity of the game that could be seen by players on both sides of the court.

“This was a very emotional game. No matter what two teams’ records are coming into a rivalry game, you know it’s going to be a tough game. There was a lot of chatter about the game on social media beforehand and there

was a lot of chatter during the game, but when the guys needed to put their heads down and focus, they did. I’m very proud of that,” he said.

Though the Tigers were able to focus late in the game, their start certainly seemed unfocused. Pinecrest jumped out to a 14-3 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Tigers found offensive produc-tion in the second quarter and were able to cut the Paladins’ lead to 6 after Tigers’ junior Kameron Dozier came up with a 3-point play after a foul on a layup.

However, the Paladins would score five unanswered points to take a 32-21 lead into halftime.

King’s Ridge began their steady comeback in the second half, opening the half with a 7-2 run before the Ti-gers were called for a technical foul as officials had apparently seen enough of the chatter occurring on the floor.

Later in the third, Dozier would make a 3-pointer to cut the Paladins’ lead to just one at 37-38. Once again though, Pinecrest would end the quarter with 5 unanswered points, in-cluding a 3-pointer at the buzzer from Pinecrest senior Zayne Rice. Rice would

finish the game with 11 points and four rebounds.

After a 3-point play from the Tigers’ Ellis Merriweather, the Paladins would miss two free throws. Merriweather then knocked down a 3-pointer, his third of the game, to give the Tigers a 47-45 lead, their first of the game, mid-way through the fourth quarter.

The next three minutes would be back and forth between the two teams, with King’s Ridge making four free throws and Pinecrest getting two 3-pointers from seniors Adam Rocko and Matt Howell.

With just under a minute remain-ing, the Tigers’ Merriweather would miss a layup but the rebound was

Tigers did not lead until fourth quarter

JOE PARKER

Ellis Merriweather (1) scored 25 points in the Tigers’ 56-52 win over Pinecrest Jan. 16.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 31SPORTS

collected under the net by Dozier, who made his layup to give the Tigers a 53-51 lead.

A King’s Ridge foul sent the Paldins’ John Crone to the line where he would shoot 1-2 on free throws. Crone missed his second free throw and King’s Ridge was able to run nearly 40 seconds off the clock before a foul sent Dozier to the line with the Tigers’ lead still at 2.

Dozier, who was a perfect 7-7 on free throws up to that point, missed the first of his two shots to keep the Tigers’ lead at 54-52 with 12.2 seconds remaining.

Pinecrest moved the ball inside the perimeter on their ensuing possession before Merriweather tipped a Pinecrest pass and came down with the ball. After being fouled, Merriweather made both of his free throws to secure the 56-52 win for the Tigers.

Pinecrest was led in scoring by Rocko, who finished the game with 14 points. Crone compiled 13 points, six rebounds and two steals. Merriweather accounted for nearly half of the Tigers’ points with 25. The 6-foot-2 senior was 6-8 on free throws and added eight re-bounds and two steals. Dozier finished the game with 17 points for the Tigers, shooting 88 percent on free throws.

The Tigers’ win kept them in second place in the Region 6-A Division B standings behind St. Francis.

“We have a tough schedule coming

up and some really big games,” Brown-lee said, “but I am excited with the position that we are in.”

The Tigers will face Mount Pisgah

this Friday and have a nonregion game against Milton on Saturday. Pinecrest’s next game will be against St. Francis Jan. 26.

Boys weekend scoresJan. 15•Habersham Central 55 -

Alpharetta 73•Lambert 70 - Northview 45•North Forsyth 42 - West Forsyth 27•Johns Creek 56 - Chattahoochee 27•Centennial 78 - South Forsyth 67•Etowah 53 - Roswell 47•Forsyth Central 29 - Riverwood 51•North Clayton 58 -

Blessed Trinity 52•Pinecrest Academy 53 -

Mt. Pisgah 69•King’s Ridge 51 -

Fellowship Christian 30

Jan. 16•Chattahoochee 57 -

Forsyth Central 56•Centennial 51 - Riverwood 78•Johns Creek 63 - Walton 56•Cambridge 76 - WD Mohammed 84•Blessed Trinity 33 - St. Pius X 65•St. Francis 94 - Lone Peak 92•Pinecrest Academy 52 -

King’s Ridge 56•Fellowship Christian 39 -

Our Lady of Mercy 62

Girls weekend scoresJan. 15•Habersham Central 45 -

Alpharetta 49•Lambert 27 - Northview 29•Centennial 39 - South Forsyth 69•North Forsyth 44 - West Forsyth 58•Etowah 45 - Roswell 54•Forsyth Central 60 - Riverwood 47•Pinecrest Academy 63 -

Mount Pisgah 23

Jan. 16•Centennial 64 - Riverwood 36•Cambridge 29 - Milton 43•Blessed Trinity 41 - St. Pius X 59•Rabun Gap-Nacoochee 47 -

Mount Pisgah 32•Fellowship Christian 48 -

Our Lady of Mercy 54

KEVIN O’BRIEN/ SPLIT SECOND IMAGES

Andrew Melms (2) and the Lam-bert boys baskteball team beat Northview 70 to 45 on Jan. 15

Rivalry renewed: King’s Ridge late rally denies Pinec rest the upset

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32 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SPORTS

By JOE PARKERnews@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The St. Francis Lady Knights (17-1, 6-0) dominated Walker, 72-19, to remain undefeated in Region 6-A Division B play. The Lady Knights are seeking their fifth straight region title and are the defending Class A state champions.

With their Jan. 14 win over Walker, the Lady Knights have not lost a region game since Feb. 7, 2012, a streak of 43 consecutive victories.

After the win over Walker, Head Coach Aisha Kennedy said, “We are taking each game one step at a time. We are playing really well as a team right now.

Kennedy said the Lady Knights’ defense, which shut down Walker throughout the game, is performing well.

“We have really stressed our defense performance in practice and it has been a focus. They looked really good tonight.”

In addition to their impressive de-fensive performance, St. Francis had no troubles on the offensive side of the ball as 10 players scored. Sophomore Olivia Swanston led the Lady Knights in scor-

ing with 18 points, including four made 3-pointers. Junior Kasiyahna Kush-kituah scored 14 and sophomore Jala Jordan scored 13.

St. Francis began their offensive production early, opening the game on a 15-0 run and taking a 26-4 lead into the second quarter. Showing the depth of the Lady Knights, their bench played the entire second quarter, outscoring Walker 22-6 to take a 48-10 lead into halftime.

The Lady Knights did not let up in the second half, eventually taking the 72-19 win after not allowing Walker a single point in the fourth quarter.

After missing most of the season due to a knee injury, Jasmine Feraro compiled 5 points, a steal and five rebounds. Nichel Tampa had five steals and Kushkituah led the Lady Knights in rebounds with seven.

Knights blowout Walker to remain unbeaten in region playSeeking fifth consecutive region championship

PHOTOS BY JOE PARKER

Junior guard Maya Dodson leads the Lady Knights, averaging 12.6 points per game.

Jala Jordan scored 13 points for the Lady Knights in their 72-19 win over Walker.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 33SCHOOLS

BY CANDY WAYLOCKcandy@appenmediagroup.com

ATLANTA — The national push away from mandatory assessments and the diminished role federal government in the classroom could signal a return to more local control of public schools.

But whether Georgia education officials follow the lead on high-stakes testing and teacher evaluations re-mains to be seen.

In December, the U.S. Congress finally put the No Child Left Behind Act out of its misery by replacing the seldom-en-forced law with the Every Student Succeeds Act.

Originally passed in 2002, NCLB aimed to have all students at grade level within 10 years. But the law had mixed results, and within 15 years, most states were granted waivers to implement their own plans.

The ESSA takes a much lighter touch with federal involvement, ex-plained Michael Petrilli, president of the Thomas P. Fordham Institute, an education think tank based in Wash-ington, D.C.

Under the ESSA, most of the hall-marks of NCLB are gone, including requirements for teacher evaluation systems, provisions for highly qual-ified teachers, and choice options/supplemental services and penalties for low-performing schools.

The burden is now on states to im-prove the quality of education in their own backyard.

During a Jan. 8 media symposium hosted by the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education, Petrilli said the ESSA “very much gives significant authority back to the states” and is the counter reaction to the NCLB.

“There was a sense in Washington, certainly with Republicans but among Democrats as well, that there had been an era of overreach starting with NCLB, Race to the Top, and [other education reforms] that went too far,” said Petrilli.

But the federal government did

not completely cut states loose with ESSA. The mandate remains for states to have an annual testing requirement that identifies the lowest-performing students and schools.

However the federal government now only mandates annual testing in English and math in grades 3-8, once in high school, and in science three times (once in elementary, middle and high school).

In Georgia, the annual assessment, Milestones, goes far beyond the federal requirement, annually testing students in English, math, social studies and science in grades 3-12. Test scores are

the basis for not only 20 percent of the student grade in high school, but also 50 percent of the teacher’s evaluation.

A spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Education said no immediate changes will be made to the state’s assessment program, which still operates under the waiver from NCLB until the state’s ESSA plan is approved.

“Georgia law requires the assessment of sci-ence in grades 3-8 and in two high school sci-ence courses, so in that regard, we go beyond what the feds require,” said Matt Cardoza of the GDOE. “There are no

federal assessment requirements for social studies — that is all Georgia.”

As far as the highly controversial teacher evaluations, there has been no action to tweak the mandates, which are a legislative issue, according to GDOE officials. But with the federal mandate now gone, the decision comes down to Georgia.

“The state can ditch the teacher evaluation system because [lawmakers] can no longer say ‘the feds are making us do it’, because they no longer are,” said Petrilli.

Under ESSA, state plans for school improvement have to be approved by the U.S. Department of Education, however the law clearly states the sec-retary of education cannot deny plans that meet the “letter of the law.”

“The [law authors] are trying to keep the [federal government] from saying ‘no’ to the states unless they find some-thing that is clearly not meeting the letter of the law,” said Petrilli.

Feds limit intrusion into classroomsRevised education law returns local control

The state can ditch the teacher evaluation system because [lawmakers] can no longer say ‘the feds are making us do it’, because they no longer are.”

MICHAEL PETRILLIPresident of the Thomas P. Fordham Institute

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34 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com SCHOOLS

By HATCHER HURDhatcher@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The doors of Gwin-nett Technical College’s Alpharetta-North Fulton campus swung open on Old Mil-ton Parkway for the first time Jan. 6.

They admitted students at long last who will learn skills for careers in well-paying jobs, and the classrooms and the jobs may not be too far from where they live now.

Getting the doors open at the Alpharetta campus, however, was years in the making. Nevertheless, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce President Brandon Beach said Gwinnett Tech’s pres-ence on Ga. 400 will be “transformational.”

“Five years ago, we saw the need for a tech-nical school that could fill needs both for our IT community and the growing medical com-munity in the Ga. 400 corridor,” Beach said.

Beach and members of the Greater North Fulton Chamber team — David Seago, Penn Hodge and the then-head of Progress Partners North Fulton Al Nash — ap-proached then-Gwinnett Tech President Ron Jackson to shift North Fulton into the Gwinnett Tech coverage area with the goal of having a North Fulton techni-cal college.

“Once that was accomplished, we got tremendous support from Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones [R-Milton], who got $25 million into the budget for the construc-tion of the school,” Beach said.

Not all high school students are candidates for a four-year college. There is a huge need for technical and medical careers for people here, he said.

“And it is a build-it-and-they-will-come effect. Gwinnett Tech is just the latest tool in our toolbox to add to the many other assets and inducements Ga. 400 provide. It will play a huge role in attracting new and high-paying jobs to

the corridor.”Gwinnett Tech Vice

President of Institu-tional Advancement Mary Beth Byerly said it was a great effort by community leaders to figure out how Gwinnett Tech could best serve the area and, what’s more, find the funds to get it done.

“This community came together and got the capital to build this,” Byerly said. “It was a time of tight bud-gets but the leadership was united.”

Indeed, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek all made bids for the site, but Alpharetta was by far the strongest. Adding a $3 million

sweetener which will build the school’s parking deck certainly helped.

Its Ga. 400 location will also serve communities from Sandy Springs to Dahlonega and along the east-west axis of Woodstock to Duluth.

Future plans will triple the size of the campus from one building of 95,000 square feet to three buildings totaling 300,000 square feet and serving 10,000 students.

The campus will also serve stu-

dents in the Move On When Ready program. Students can take advanced core courses which will also transfer as

college credits. Students already in the program have graduated high school with enough credits to enter college as juniors.

Meanwhile, the campus will provide the business community with workforce development courses such as Certified Cisco Network Associate that will make

Gwinnett Tech Alpharetta/North

Fulton campus greets 1st student

Just harbinger of 10,000 students to come Inaugural education programs at Alpharetta-North Fulton campusGwinnett Technical College’s Alpharet-ta-North Fulton campus is on 25 acres at 2875 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, on the west side of Ga. 400. Initial program offerings were decided in consultation with North Fulton business and economic development leaders. Students choose from these areas:Computer Sciences •Computer Programming, Game

Development, Cybersecurity, Website Design/Development, Networking Specialist, Data Center Specialist

Business •Accounting, Logistics, Criminal

Justice Technology, Business Man-agement, Marketing Management, Business Technology, Hotel, Restau-rant and Tourism Management

Health and Life Sciences •Health Care Assistant (multiple

concentrations: Allied Health, Med-ical Unit Secretary, Patient Care), Bioscience Environmental Lab Tech, Bioscience Regulatory Assurance Tech, Clinical Research Professional 

Education •Early Childhood EducationCriminal Justice •Criminal Justice TechnologyGeneral Education •Math, English

About Alpharetta-North Fulton Campus•Three stories, 95,000 square feet•35 classrooms and technology-en-

hanced classrooms; seven computer labs; three science labs; library; bookstore; two 75-seat lecture halls; Learning Success Center.

PHOTOS BY HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Students in this English class also earn credits that will transfer to a four-year college. Students can earn up to two years of college credits while still in high school, saving two years of Hope Scholarship funding.

State-of-the-art lab classrooms are part of the well-equipped facilities at Gwin-nett Tech’s Alpharetta-North Fulton campus.

... It is a build-it-and-they-will-come effect. Gwinnett Tech is just the latest tool in our toolbox to add to the many other assets and inducements Ga. 400 provide.”JAN JONES [R-MILTON]Speaker Pro Tem

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 35SCHOOLS

their workers more valuable employees, Byerly said.

“Information security specialist is an-other two-year or less certification that has an entry level of around $60,000 a year,” she said. “Our programs align with what the community tells us it needs. Whether that is early childhood educa-

tion or medical technician.”It is also more affordable than most

college tuitions and Hope Scholarship funds are applicable.

“Using the Move On When Ready program, a student can get the first two years of college and be debt-free,” she said.

Gwinnett Tech President Glen Can-

non was on hand the first day of class. He called it a relief to finally to be open.

“We hope to keep the North Fulton workforce growing. We are already the largest supplier of health care workers in this service area,” Cannon said.

That’s not just nurses. It is radiation technicians, EMTs, medical stenogra-phers and more, he said.

The medical profession has a “1-2-7” ratio that Gwinnett Tech tries to fill. For every one doctor, two four-year degreed positions are created and seven associ-ate degree positions.

“There is still a gap in the need ver-sus the supply,” Cannon said. “We are working to narrow that.”

The Alpharetta-North Fulton campus will have its full-blown ribbon-cutting in the spring. For now staff is working out the kinks and getting faculty in place.

“We are getting ramped up, and we want a seasoned faculty to greet stu-dents in the spring,” Cannon said.

They are also getting articulation agreements signed every month with col-leges and universities to accept Gwinnett Tech Alpharetta-North Fulton campus credits.

“Technology retools exponentially. Computer information systems are constantly being updated. It is our job to provide the people who will do that,” Cannon said.

Alpharetta-North Fulton’s first student an eager beaverBen Gravitt couldn’t wait to get to schoolBy HATCHER HURDhatcher@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – It was a crisp, cold Jan. 6 morning when the Al-pharetta-North Fulton campus of Gwinnett Technical College welcomed its first student – and he didn’t even have class that day.

Ben Gravitt, 28, was the first student at 8 a.m. to walk through the campus doors at 2875 Old Milton Parkway.

“No, I didn’t have class today. But I can’t study at home. There’s too much distraction. So I got up and came here,” he said.

That means Gravitt has the dis-tinction of being the first student to

cross the threshold of the Alpharet-ta-North Fulton campus. It is certain he won’t be the last.

A graduate of the Howard School in Roswell, Gravitt is now pursuing a career as a respiratory technician.

“In the respiratory program, I’ll work with people who have breathing problems and administer respiratory drugs. I have one more class to finish and I can start the program in the spring,” he said.

He said he looked at several opportunities to go into the medical field around the state, but chose Gwinnett Tech because it was afford-able and “the science programs are very good.

“Health science is what I wanted. I looked at other programs at other schools and they just weren’t the same,” Gravitt said.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Ben Gravitt, the first student to walk through the doors of Gwinnett Tech Alpharetta-North Fulton, chats with Dr. Victoria Seals, vice president of aca-demic affairs.

PHOTOS BY HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Students in this English class also earn credits that will transfer to a four-year college. Students can earn up to two years of college credits while still in high school, saving two years of Hope Scholarship funding.

State-of-the-art lab classrooms are part of the well-equipped facilities at Gwin-nett Tech’s Alpharetta-North Fulton campus.

Anatomy students await the first day of class.

36 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com COMMUNITY

CUMMING, Ga. — Army Captain Wallace A. Jackson IV has a big job. Speaking to members of the Cumming Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Jackson said his role as chaplain to the Army’s 5th Ranger Training Battalion is to provide both religious and moral support to troops undergo-ing some of the most arduous training to be found anywhere in the military.

Based at Camp Frank D. Merrill in the mountains of Dahlonega, Jackson knows that soldiers aspiring to become Rangers must master training which tests their mental and physical stamina to the limits.

The mountain training is the second of three phases, all of which are exhausting and challenging.

While formal Ranger training only began in the 1950s, Rangers can trace their role in America’s military dating back as far as the French and Indian Wars.

And the role of Chaplain has been around for nearly as

long – back to General George Washington who insisted that soldiers of the Continental Army have adequate religious support as they fought for the nation’s independence.

Jackson said one reason he is equipped to help the sol-diers overcome the challenges is because he graduated from the same Ranger course in 2013. He said he relishes his role and spends as much time as possible in the field with the trainees.

“I believe that the Chaplain needs to be right there with them so he can understand what they go through,” Jackson said.

Jackson was the first speaker for the VVA as they be-gan 2016 at their new meeting venue, the Georgia National Guard Readiness Center in Cumming.

The Cumming Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of Amer-ica meets the first Monday of each month at the National Guard Facility at 7 p.m. All Vietnam Era Veterans are wel-come.

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Army ranger chaplain talks about role supporting elite troops

Army Captain Wallace A. Jackson IV was the first speaker for the Cumming Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America as they began 2016 at their new meeting venue.

MILTON, Ga. – Clara DeLuria, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and proud daughter to Italian immigrants, turned 100 years old Thursday, Jan. 14. 

Clara was born on Jan. 14, 1916, in the small town of New Castle, Pennsylva-nia, where she was the oldest of five children. She and her late husband, Louis, also had five children and relocated to Miami, Florida in 1957 where she lived until she moved to Milton in 2004 with her oldest daughter, Louise.

“My mother is blessed with a sharp mind which allows us to benefit from the many details she provides when telling stories about the past,” said her son Rob-ert, also a Milton resident. “If you enjoy hearing about history, you would appreci-ate her unique way of expressing how far we have evolved over the past hundred years.” 

Pictured: Clara DeLuria turned 100 years old Jan. 14. Pictured, she holds great-grandson Elijah Hoots.

Milton resident turns a century old

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 37COMMUNITY

Cumming for DUI, open container and littering.

► Derek Rodney Bahnet, 42, of Gatewater Court, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 7 on Anthem Parkway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

► Joseph Lawrence Stewart, 24, of McDonough, was arrested Jan. 7 on Keith Bridge Road in Cumming for DUI, open container, suspended license, wanted person and giving false information to a police officer.

► Katy Jo Watkins, 33, of Duluth, was arrested Dec. 20 on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI, failure to maintain lane and no headlights.

Continued from Page 2

Arrests: ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 37

Help Wanted

Full-time

UNHAPPY IN YOUR JOB??

Start your own business in Real Estate!Now Hiring 10 new Agents! We are the fastest growing Keller Williams Office in the 400 Corridor. Contact Robert Aiken at 706.429.8620

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Full-time

North Ful ton Community Charities Now Hiring Full-Time:Director Of Volunteer Services. Requires excellent management and oral/written communication skills. BA & 2 yrs. experience required. NFCC is a locally supported, volunteer based nonprofit serving a diverse population in North Fulton with emergency needs. NFCC requires background check, drug screen and e-Verify. Submit resume and salary requirements or pick up application and job description at NFCC, 11270 Elkins Road, Roswell 30076 or bduffy@nfcchelp.org

Income Opportunities

Start your own FUN home-based business selling Beauty/ Fashion/Decor. Set your hours. Ice Cream Social, 5910 Bethelview Rd, Cumming, 30040. 1- 2:30pm, 1/19/16 & 1/21/16. 678-428-2726, 770-826-3301

Part-time

COACHESTeam, and recreational. Must have experience, and reliable transportation and be good with kids. If interested, contact Lindi at 770-475-8188

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HOUSEKEEPERS NEEDED

At Roswell Nursing Center 1109 Green St. Roswell Please apply in person ask for Shelton

Part-time

HANDYMAN who can “fix almost anything”. Non-smoker, honest, dependable, good references. Must pass background check. Preferable plumbing, electrical, sometimes framing, HVAC, etc ability for any of those. $15/hour. 770-992-2469. realestatetreasure@msn.com

LEGAL SECRETARY

Litigation experience. Alpharetta area. Flexible schedule. Resumes: robballard@earthlink.net

Animals

Horses

BEGINNING HORSEBACK

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Bargains

Antiques

European wardrobe/armoire, single door, beveled mirror, 84”hX 21”dX37”w. $700. Photos. 678-549-6057.

Building Supplies

VELUX SKYLIGHTS, used. (Eight, 21”x44”, two miscellaneous sizes). $475/all. 770-992-6848 leave message

Cemetery

Roswell-Greenlawn. Garden of Prayer overlooking lake with fountain. 4 plots. ivypaigereeder@gmail.com for more info and photos

A R L I N G T O N , Garden-C, Lot 61 Sandy Springs. Asking $1800 negotiable. 770-993-4065

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Cemetery

ARLINGTONDesirable Calvary Section. Lake and Crucifix views. Lot 545-A, 2 spaces, Retail $13,990. $7900 both. 770-7513643

Greenlawn/Roswell4 lots, Garden Of The Fountain. $2700 each/obo, includes upkeep and maintenance. 770-475-7025

Arlington Memorial Park

Atlanta Section E, Lot 71A, spaces 1, 2, 3, 4. $3800/each. Debbie ewingadeb@yahoo.com or text/call 770-355-9681

Furniture

Leather sectional in Rio Chinese Red (103x103”), 6 Extra Firm Cushions, Foam Pillow Tops. Excellent Condition! $800. 678-591-0450

BABY BED; Collapses, foldable. Carrying bag. $40, 770-993-0835

Bunk Bed, Buzz Lightyear with slide and matching Desk $450. 864-567-0362

Furniture

Custom Laminate Shelves with 3 drawers (beige). 14’Lx8’Wx16”D. $500. 770-633-0107

PATIO FURNITURE, sturdy metal. 2 chairs with ottomans, loveseat, all cushions. $100. 770-569-2589

DINING TABLE: Round Ralph Lauren 60”d cherry $200. 770-781-0961

Household

Amana Dishwasher, black. $50. 678-456-3738

GE OverOven MW- SS, $50. 678-456-3738

GE Gas Range, Black, $50 678-456-3738

MedicalEquipment

CHAIR LIFT for vehicle, Bruno Curbsider, for motorized chair, remote control, 400-lb. capacity $1500. 404-345-2372

MedicalEquipment

WALKER, new $75.678-297-7629

HOSPITAL BED:Electronic controlswith deluxe mattress.Bought new, used lessthan 2 weeks. $750.Originally $2000. 404-735-7250

TH-36 PSORIASISP H O T O T H E R A P YLAMP $100. 404-345-2372

C O M P A C TWHEELCHAIR: Likebrand new. $200. 678-297-7629

Rechargeable MobileChair by Invacare:Joystick handoperated. Adjustableup and down seat andback. Gel cushion seatfor pressure. Used 4months. $6000. 404-345-2372

MAIN CLASSIFIEDScontinued on page 38

Call today to place your ad • 470.222.8469 • classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 • *Some Rest r ic t ions

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Christopher J. Knapp, a sophomore at West Forsyth High School, received the Boy Scouts highest honor on Dec. 8, 2015. Andy Whaley, the scoutmaster of Troop 254 presented Knapp with the Eagle Scout Award at Bethelview United Methodist Church.

Knapp started his scouting career in 2006 as a Tiger Cub in the first grade and crossed over to Boy Scouts in Feb. 2011 after earning the Arrow of Light.

He has attended several scouting camps, the most recent one being the Florida Keys High Adventure camp this past summer. His Eagle Service project was the construction of a pergola at Kelly Mill Elementary School in May 2015.

Knapp is a year round swimmer for Swim Atlanta and also on the WFHS swim and dive team. He is a member of the National Beta Club, the National Latin Honor Society, Jooi Club and Young Conservative Pro-fessionals Club.

WFHS student named Eagle Scout

Andy Whaley, the scoutmaster of Troop 254 presented Christopher Knapp with the Eagle Scout Award at Bethelview United Methodist Church.

38 | January 20, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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Motorcycles Wanted to Buy

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Travel

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Miscellaneous

DRIFTWOOD: For decorating and/or projects. $350/all! Text for pix: 678-468-8687

Musical Instruments

CELLO, 7/8 Doetsch, Pernambuco bow, Hiscox hard sided case $2400. 770-753-0787

PIANO, Baby Grand: Elegant case, matching bench; warm, rich tone. Sacrifice $1650 obo. 678-445-3654

Recreation

TREADMILL: Trimline heavy duty $100. 678-339-0410

POOL TABLE, 4x8, 4 chairs, cues, rack, 2 more tables. $2300. 404-934-7307

POOL TABLE: Brunswick 8’. Three slates. Pool cues, pool rack, table light, Excellent condition. $1500. 678-339-0410

GOLF CART: Club Car. Trojan batteries with charger. Lights, horn. Excellent condition! $1950. 404-290-6364.

GOLF MEMORABILIA: Club Logo; balls and towels, etc. $295. 404-583-2078

Nordic Track Walk Fit 5000: Non-electric, no batteries. $100. 770-993-0835

Wanted to Buy

Vintage Barbie, Midge, Francie, Skipper dolls, clothing and accessories. (Local). Cell 214-883-8215

Real Estate

Acreage/Lots

3575 Bonneville Drive, Cumming .23 acres in Shady Shores $30,000 Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

1.98 acre Residential Lot off of E. Cherokee Dr./Murphy Dr. (secluded drive) in Cherokee County. Wooded with mature hardwoods, sloped lot. All utilities at road. $50,000 Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

Commercial Space for Lease

537 Lake Center Parkway for lease 1200-3600 SF space available in beautiful brick building. Easy access to Highway 9 and Market Center Blvd in Cumming. Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

Commercial Space for Sale

2376 Bethelview Road, 1.07 acre commercial in CBD zoning across from Kroger at Bethelview Rd & GA Hwy 20 intersection. Owner Agent, asking $499,000. Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

Home for Sale

115 Founders Cove Johns Creek, Newly updated Weiland 5BR/2.5BA culdesac home in desirable Haynes Landing. Brick front, granite countertops in kitchen, freshly painted inside & out, new roof, built-in bookcases, 5th rm in bsmt can be separate apt. Extra storage building, oversized garage. Excellent schools. Walk to Newtown Pk. $320,000 Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

Home for Sale

European elegance at its finest! No expense spared! Featuring hardwood floors, extensive tr im package, 10’/vaulted ceilings, large windows & transoms, spacious bedrooms, office/library, 2 story formal living rm, large dining rm, gourmet kitchen w. huge island, 2 stone fireplaces. The finished basement offers a full kitchen, dining area, laundry rm, master suite, extra rm (possible 7th bdrm. or home gym), home theater w/ equipment c o n v e n i e n t l y accessible by elevator. Stone patio & fire pit overlooking a picturesque creek. Entertainer delight! Will not disappoint! Kelly Gillian 770-654-0447

65 Rainey Drive, Dawsonville 3BR/2BA Ranch with front and back porch. Fenced in yard, extra storage in exterior entrance crawlspace. Freshly painted. $155,000. Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com

Business Services

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF INTENT TO VOLUNTARILY DISSOLVE A C O R P O R A T I O N : Notice is given that a notice of intent to dissolve All American Security Concepts, Inc., a Georgia corporation with its registered office at 6250 Shiloh Rd, Ste. 100, Alpharetta GA 30005, has been delivered to the Secretary of State for filing in accordance with the Georgia Business corporation Code

Tax Service

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MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued from page 37Waterfront Outside, GA.

Country Ranch

BACKWATER LANDING – LAKE KEOWEE, SCWaterfront Cottages, Gated – Prices from $140’s to $395,000

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RUCKERLANDSCAPING

Tad Carter • 678.648.2012Many Local References

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Cannot combine with other off ers.Expires in 10 days

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Save $50on any job over $300

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UGLYDRIVEWAY?

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | January 20, 2016 | 39

Cleaning Services

CONSTRUCTION,homes , offices. ouses.Work independently, professional. Punctual, responsible, detail. Great references Buckhead, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek. Rose 770-896-7500

Need a housecleaning? Call Norma Martinez for free estimate! References. 404-468-7667. “I get all your dust to earn your trust!”

Concrete/Asphalt

We fix UGLY driveways and

patios.$50 OFF any concrete

job over $250$250 OFF any job

over $3500New or Repair:

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Flooring

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Gutters

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Handyman

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Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

Plumbing,Electrical and DrywallRepair and Installation

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Call Mike 678-763-2420

Haulers

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Home Improvement

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Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc. Many local references. Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237

Landscaping

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Landscaping

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SERVICE DIRECTORY CADNET ADS

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Wanted to Buy

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Wanted to Buy

Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557Denver, Co. 80201

Painters

Advantage Painting

Interior/ExteriorDecks Sealed & Stained

Carpentry Repairs

770-255-8575

Proudly use Benjamin Moore

& Sherwin Williams paintsPrompt Professional Service

Free Estimate, Insured

No Up Front Money

Pinestraw

PINESTRAW, mulch del ivery/ instal lat ion available. Firewood $110/$200, plus delivery. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612.

Tree Services

JJ Tree Cutting Services. Complete Tree Removal. Call us for a Free Quote, 678-467-1325 or 770-630-6672. Licensed and insured. jjtreecutting@gmail.com

404Cuttree. One of the most experienced and reliable tree companies in North Atlanta. Perfect reviews and reliable, professional, and honest service. Free quotes. Fully insured. 770Tree.com 678-506-0006

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Call the Experts in the

SERVICEDIRECTORY

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Sell Your CarThe Easy Way

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Serving BreakfastMon-Fri 7am-11am • Sat & Sun 8am-11am

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

Breakfast • LunchDinner • To-Go • Catering

Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers • WingsChicken Lips • BBQ Ribs • Pulled Pork • Veggies & More!

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WEEKLY ACTIVITIESMon. Family Night, KIDS EAT FREE & BINGO at 6pmWed. Team TRIVIA at 8pmThurs. CHERRY STREET BEER SPECIALS & OPEN MIC at 7:30pmFri. Prime Rib & Steak SpecialsSat. Prime Rib & Steak Specials & Brewery Tours from 1-4pmSun. Brunch 11am-2pm & Live Music

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

770-205-5512www.cherrystreetbrewing.com

Open Mon-Fri 7am • Sat & Sun 8am

See current beer list www.cherrystreetbrewing.com

CHERRY STREET TAPROOM

25 Cherry Street Taps • Craft Cocktails • TapasLocated next to the Brewery to the right of Tanner’s

Tues-Adult Trivia@8pm • Wed-Movie NightThurs-Industry Nite • Sat-Live Music

Book Your Private Party

With Us Today!

New Hours and Brewery Tours!Now Open: Tues & Wed 4pm-11pm • Thurs & Fri 4pm-12am • Sat 12pm-12am • Sun 12:30pm-8pm

Brewery Tours Every Saturday On The Hour From 1-4pm. Meet In The Taproom