Forsyth Herald, February 25, 2015

Empty Nest

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Commissioners approve rezoning Will add up to 235 homes ►►Page 6

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New art for new courthouse Donations sought from public ►►PAGE 10

February 25, 2015 | forsythherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 9

Ice storm freezes Forsyth Firemen came out to help Woodbury residents Feb. 17 after downed trees blocked the road. See story and more pictures, Page 31.

shelby robinson

Miles requests review from Cumming hires alternate counsel attorney general, again

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — In a game of legal tag, Cumming City Attorney Dana Miles has once again sent a letter to Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens, asking for legal opinion about the possible impeachment of Councilman Rupert Sexton.

This letter, from Feb. 11, is

Councilman Rupert Sexton at odds with Dana Miles, other councilmembers.

See story, Page 4. a request for review of written legal opinion and conclusion of

counsel for the city of Cumming. It is the second such letter the city of Cumming has sent Olens since late January.

Olens withheld an opinion on the first letter, saying the issue was a local one and it would be inappropriate for his office to get involved at this point.

Miles has decided to ask

See REVIEW, Page 29

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

CUMMING, Ga. — After the U.S. District Court sent three subpoenas seeking information about the city of Cumming, including Cumming City Attorney Dana Miles, the City Council voted Feb. 17 to hire Cruser and Mitchell as an alternative counsel.

Kevin Tallant, a partner

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with Miles, Hansford and Tallant law firm, said the decision is ratification on actions previously taken.

“The city received notice from counsel who formerly represented Councilman Rupert Sexton,” Tallant said.

“As a result of that, the city insurance carrier hired law firm Cruser and Mitchell to

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2 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Police: Beware of traffic accident scam

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Recent victim robbed at gunpoint after fender-bender on Ga. 400

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Police are raising the alarm for residents after a local woman was robbed at gunpoint on Ga. 400.

The victim was driving northbound on Ga. 400 Sunday, Feb. 8, about 3:30 p.m. when her vehicle was struck by a large black truck, possibly a Toyota Tundra with tinted windows.

The victim and suspect vehicles pulled over, as in any other traffic accident. The victim got out of her vehicle.

As she did, two men get out of the truck and walked up

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

Woman attacked while asleep FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A woman was reportedly attacked Jan. 31 while in her bed at home asleep.

The woman told officers she had consumed a couple glasses of wine and a sleeping pill. After going outside to smoke, she felt tired and went inside to lay down.

She said woke up when she felt something poking at her chest. She reportedly saw two people dressed in all black and a ski mask. Because of their outfits, the woman was unable to give a description of the people, but said one of them whispered, “If you tell anyone, I will come back and kill you.� Then she went back to sleep, because she thought it was a dream.

The next morning, she said there was blood all over her and cuts on her chest and stomach.

She checked her house and noticed her back door was unlocked. She couldn’t remember if she left it that way.

An investigation is ongoing.

Neighbor threatens dog’s life FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — After a neighbor’s dog started fighting with his dog, one man called the Forsyth County

Sheriff’s Office Feb. 6.

The complainant said he texted his neighbor and said if it persisted, he would shoot the neighbor’s dog. The neighbor responded and said if that happened, he would shoot him.

The complainant said after a few minutes, he heard gunshots coming from his neighbor’s backyard, but that he shoots weapons in his backyard all the time.

The man reportedly told officers it’s an ongoing issue, but he has not contacted animal control.

After looking at the text messages, there was a third message sent from the neighbor saying he was just kidding about shooting the complainant and his dog probably deserved to be shot with an air rifle.

The officer was unable to make contact with the neighbor.

Domestic abuse call turns out to be false CUMMING, Ga. — A neighbor on Oakland Street called the Cumming Police Department Feb. 5 after witnessing what she thought was a domestic abuse situation.

The complainant reportedly said she heard around 4 a.m. arguing and banging in the apartment below her and it was loud enough to wake her up.

She said she then heard arguing out in the breezeway below her and stepped outside with her phone, where she said she captured video of a man choking a woman. When the couple noticed her, they ran back inside their apartment.

The officer watched the video and

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

DUI arrests â–şâ–ş Andrew S. Bibler, 48, of Heavenly

Hill Court, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 7 on Parks Road in Cumming for DUI, expired registration and failure to maintain lane. â–şâ–ş Jeremy Monroe Davenport, 35, of Doc Bramblett Road, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 6 on Sawnee Corners Boulevard in Cumming for DUI. â–şâ–ş Joya Yanea Stuckman, 35, of Highland Pass, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 6 on Union Hill Road in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, open container and failure to carry license. â–şâ–ş Kevin Edward Reed, 24, of Morning Pine Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 7 on McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and following too closely. â–şâ–ş Mojtaba Aboullahi Annaim, 36, of Tucker was arrested Feb. 9 on Market Place Boulevard in Cumming for DUI and impeding traffic. â–şâ–ş Roman Kochanski, 42, of Newnan was arrested Feb. 9 on Hamby Road in Alpharetta for DUI, following too closely and expired registration.

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Greyhawk Lane, Cumming, was

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to the victim, pulling a gun. They took the victim’s purse and cellphone. They returned to their truck and left the scene.

As this type of “bump and rob� event is unusual, police believe it may be a new tactic being used by criminals to rob people who believed they were involved in a traffic accident.

If you are bumped by another vehicle, safely get a license plate number and contact your local authorities to advise them of the accident. This may prevent further criminal activity.

Anyone with information that can help identify the suspects or vehicle are asked to contact the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety’s investigative unit at 678-297-6319, contact a confidential tip line at 678-297-6307 or leave a tip online at www.alpharetta.ga.us within the public safety page.

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4 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Motion to remove Miles, Mullinax from city health plan dies Sexton argues it’s a seal of approval

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — Cumming City Councilman Rupert Sexton made a motion at the regular council meeting Feb. 17 to remove Angela Mullinax and City Attorney Dana Miles from the city insurance plan due to the standards set up by the city’s insurance Sexton company.

“Neither meets requirements set forth by the Georgia Municipal Association,” Sexton said. “Miles can pay his own health insurance.”

Sexton is accused of releasing a document on social media disclosing personal financial and health insurance information for city of Cumming employees, including Mullinax.

The document caused many to question why Mullinax was listed as receiving health insurance paid for by the city of Cumming, and whether she qualified as a city employee.

The city has paid out some $75,000 in insurance benefits for Mullinax since 2005. The city uses the Georgia Municipal Association for insurance coverage, and its policy says in order to receive health insurance benefits, the employee must be full-time.

When asked why Mullinax, his longtime girlfriend, is on the list, Mayor H. Ford Gravitt admitted to putting her on

Counsel: Continued from Page 1 represent the city in regards to any kind of potential litigation that might arise.”

After that designation, the city received documents from the U.S. attorney’s office, including a request for infor-

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anything,” Sexton said. “I did not release the list. the document but it is public record if I “She does a lot of work for the city of did.”

Cumming,” said Gravitt. “I put her on [the The council also voted to get a security list]. I think the city pays $663 a month update for their swipe card system as their for her insurance – that’s it. I think we got current system is obsolete, Gravitt said. a good bargain.”

Sexton motioned to amend this to Miles, who also does work for the city include “only city employees but isn’t a full-time employee, have a swipe card.” was also on the leaked list.

“I’m not sure anyone with He said that other city the city of Cumming that’s attorneys in the state receive not an employee has a key health insurance as a form of or swipe card,” Gravitt said. payment, so he believes it’s not “So I don’t think that’d be a a conflict of interest. conflict.”

Sexton’s motion to remove Gravitt said the secuMiles and Mullinax from the rity update is in response to city health insurance plan died what’s going on now by the from lack of second. Sexton U.S. District Court, a refersaid that shows what the other ence to three recent subpoefour councilmen believe. Counnas for information from the cilman Ralph Perry was absent city of Cumming. due to health.

Cumming Human Re“That shows the other four sources Manager Phil Higgins councilmen’s endorsement is was subpoenaed by the U.S. that Mullinax and Miles are District Court for documents employees of the city of Cumrelated to Gravitt, Mullinax ming, so they’re endorsing and Miles and required Higthem to have free insurance,” gins to appear Feb. 10.

Sexton said. “That’s white and The U.S. District Court black. I tried to correct that Rupert Sexton said they are unable to reveal since August 2014 and I’ve Cumming City Councilman what occurred in the trial. been unsuccessful.”

“I’m not sure what CounSexton said the bottom cilman Sexton was talking line is since he brought up the about with employees and elected officials issue of Mullinax and Miles on the city should have a key or not; it was a very insurance list, the council has been trying vague way to explain that,” Gravitt said. to impeach him.

Sexton’s motion with the added “They first had an impartial panel amendment failed, but the original motion investigate me, but the city attorney is on passed. that panel and that’s not impartial,” SexGravitt said the security upgrade will ton said. “It’s as partial as it can get.” cost from $8,000 to $10,000 and will come As for Sexton’s possible impeachment, out of the contingency because it’ll affect he said he believes it’s a dead issue. everyone at City Hall.

“I won’t be impeached, I did not do

mation about Miles, Tallant said.

“When we received that subpoena, we decided Miles, Hansford and Tallant should Tallant not represent the city in responding to the subpoena,” Tallant said. “Obviously those subpoenas were issued to the city and the city is our client as long as Miles is the city attorney. But because he was mentioned in those subpoenas, it is my determination that we could not represent the city in that, so we are hiring another firm for the city to respond to the subpoena.”

Tallant said they recommended Cruser and Mitchell because the firm is familiar with the city of Cumming’s recent legal issues.

Sexton questioned who would be paying for the new law firm, but Tallant said that has not been determined yet.

“The city has not received a

I won’t be impeached, I did not do anything.

I did not release the document but it is public record if I did.”

Cruser

Mitchell

bill for that,” Tallant said.

“When Cruser and Mitchell submit a bill, they’re going to submit it to the city’s insurance carrier. Then they will determine which party will cover the expense.”

If it comes to it, Tallant said he’s sure the city will pay the bill, which is one of the reasons why they want to have this ratification in place.

“I don’t know if the city will ever receive a bill for it,” Tallant said. “At this point, it’s not determined if the city will have to pay anything to Cruser and Mitchell.”

Sexton then said, “We don’t know anything at all, do we?”

To which Tallant explained what would happen again.

“The city attorney’s office has a conflict and did the

The city attorney’s office has a conflict and did the honorable thing under circumstances and announced that conflict.”

Kevin Tallant Partner with Miles, Hansford and Tallant law firm

honorable thing under circumstances and announced that conflict,” Tallant said. “They recommended an alternative counsel be hired. What we don’t know is if the insurance company will pay for it.”

The measure was approved in a 3-1 vote, with Sexton opposing and Councilman Ralph Perry absent.

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6 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Commissioners approve rezoning near Hurt Bridge Road

Will add up to 235 homes

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Up to 235 new homes will be built off of Hurt Bridge Road after the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved Feb. 19 the area’s rezoning.

Currently the area is zoned as agricultural district (A1) and commercial business district (CBD), but the applicant requested to rezone it to singlefamily residential district (RES 3).

Matt Wagner spoke against the rezoning during public comment and urged the commissioners not to rezone to RES 3, but instead to RES 1 or 2. He said there are currently no other developments on Hurt Bridge Road that are designated RES 3.

“This proposed development will not blend even with the planning commissioner’s current proposed amendments,” Wagner said.

The zoning conditions on

Also at the meeting: • Unanimously approved to award Flood Brothers not to exceed $64,034 for professional moving service for the courthouse • Approved moving forward for holding public hearings to consider an amendment to the Alcohol Ordinance removing the seating requirement • Memorandum of understanding between Forsyth County and the Georgia Department of Transportation regarding $53 million contribution by Forsyth County toward Ga. 400 widening project which the commissioners voted included a decrease in the number of homes from 255 to 235 and an average lot size of 11,500 square feet.

“The county can’t allow the amount of sustained growth with the current infrastructure that is struggling,” Wagner said.

Josh Scoggins, a partner with Miles, Hansford and Tallant law firm, said there’s a great builder for this project and it will be the same type of houses currently being built in other locations.

“There will be a limit of number of lots, and two units per acre is not considered high density,” Scoggins said. “The growth in this community is

what keeps people’s property taxes low.”

Wagner said he was worried about traffic and the schools getting even more congested.

“Adding 235 homes off Hurt Bridge Road will continue to strain our schools and add to the crippling traffic our residents face on a daily basis,” Wagner said. “I don’t believe any person would argue we should stop development and growth, but instead we should be doing it sensibly and ethically.”

The commissioners voted 4-1, with Commissioner Brian Tam opposed, to approve the rezoning to RES 3, adding a condition that says there will be no more than two units per acre.

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New Storywalk launches with creative project for kids CUMMING, Ga. — The Storywalk in The Secret Garden has become a popular attraction for families at the Cumming Library, but now something else has taken up residence in the garden — fairies.

In partnership with the Forsyth County Master Gardeners, Storywalk in The Secret Garden will be decorated with fairy houses and miniature fairy gardens. Storywalk will feature the book “Good Night, Fairies!” by Kathleen Hague and illustrated by Michael Hague. “‘Good Night, Fairies!’ offers an imaginative journey through a hidden world where fairies are responsible for painting rainbows, hanging stars and teaching birds to sing,” said Holly Raus, Storywalk organizer. “It’s a particularly good fit for The Secret Garden and the fairy houses we’re creating with the master gardeners because its colorful and dream-like illustrations help the reader imagine the wonder of what might be happening in nature that we often can’t observe for ourselves.”

Children in kindergarten through fifth grade that

believe in the magic of fairies are invited to a Build Your Own Fairy House event at the Cumming Library March 7 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Children can exercise their creativity and imagination as they use natural materials such as sticks, bark, dry grasses, pebbles, shells, feathers, nuts and pinecones to create their own tiny fairy house.

Participants will hear about fairy legends and folklore while they build their houses, then will be among the first to take a stroll through the newly installed Storywalk to search for tiny houses tucked among the leaves and bushes of The Secret Garden.

Space in the event is limited and advance registration at www.forsythpl.org is required.

The fairy abodes and Storywalk will remain open in The Secret Garden until the end of March.

To access the garden, enter the Cumming Library and walk toward the back of the building. Signs point patrons to the exit door near the new study rooms.

For more information, visit www.forsythpl.org.

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8 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

opinion

sandra simmons

Winter Woes:

Ice belongs in sweet tea After last year’s snowpocalypse, the country is probably still laughing at Georgia’s inability to handle winter weather.

And in retrospect, it is a little comical that two inches of snow/ice can shut down pretty much an entire state.

But you know what isn’t funny? Icy roads, children without proper winter clothing and getting stuck on your commute home for over 12 hours.

Those are issues Georgia faced because we weren’t prepared. We aren’t like northern states that are used to getting snow and ice every winter. We sometimes get a little bit here or there, but last year’s snow caused chaos.

When everyone tried to go home at the same time, it didn’t help the already bad conditions.

This past week showed Georgia still isn’t terribly capable of handling the possibility of winter weather when

Kathleen sturgeon Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com

different parts of the state shut down or didn’t have power for five days.

The bottom line is, Georgia isn’t New York or even Kentucky. We don’t know and many of us can’t handle it.

I personally have never driven on icy or snowy roads because when the roads are covered, I usually just stay where I am.

Plus our “storms” usually last a week — if that.

The rest of the country loves to talk about how two inches of snow made an entire state stop, but we need to be cut some slack.

We aren’t prepared because

we usually don’t have to deal with winter weather except maybe one week out of the year, maybe every four years.

I would love to see some of the northern states have to prepare for temperatures over 90 degrees for days on end and see if they’re capable of handling that.

They probably wouldn’t be, because like I said above, that isn’t their normal forecast just like winter weather isn’t ours.

At least some of us can poke fun at ourselves, including the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office who posted on Facebook Feb. 19, “If you need milk and bread, go buy all the store has on the shelves. Yankees are watching and we have to live up to their expectations.”

Yes, maybe we do go a bit overboard when preparing for what some might call a dismal amount of snow and ice.

But bless a northerner’s heart when they have to deal with a Georgia summer.

Reflections on a journalism internship Hey there! My name is Adam Barth. I’m a senior at Roswell High School and an intern at Appen Media Group (the guys who publish this paper). I’ve been given the opportunity to write a column on my experience here at Appen, and will be giving updates for the duration of my internship.

Roswell High School, along with many other area high schools, gives students the unique opportunity to intern for class credit. Approximately 40 students at Roswell, myself included, have interviewed with and been accepted to intern at businesses and organizations around the Atlanta area. Students choose a career field, and Fulton County facilitates placement. Interns must

Adam barth

Appen Intern news@appenmedia group.com

then interview at their respective sites to practice interviewing skills and to ensure a good fit.

I selected journalism as my field of interest. I absolutely love to write, and I feel that interning at a newspaper or magazine will help improve my articulation and finesse as a writer, as well as give me the opportunity to connect with

the community. I was placed at Appen under Jonathan Copsey and have very quickly been charged with editing, writing and formatting stories for actual publication.

In my view, the most notable part of interning at Appen is the fact that the work I do directly influences and aids the production of the newspapers here. I have become a small part of the production team, and it’s cool, frankly, to know that my work is truly meaningful.

In the future, I hope to write more articles, publish a special spread and hopefully work with the advertising and management department.

Check back later in the season to track my progress.

Submit your opinions to news@appenmediagroup.com

Mr. Can’t-Fix-It Something magical happens to people when they are confronted with a problem in the home. They grab their toolkit, set out to find and fix the problem, and before you know it, they’ve made the problem much, much worse.

I am one of these people.

If I attempt to fix, build or install anything that involves tools of any sort, I can guarantee you one thing; something is going to get broken.

It’s not that I am a brute or have no attention to detail, I just have a severe and absolute lack of any skills related to anything that involves hammers, screws or saws.

It’s good I have never found my way into the construction business.

But I apparently forgot my complete ineptitude at mending things and attempted to build a bookshelf.

Now, when I say “build,” it should be noted that this bookshelf was of those that comes in a large box with all the materials you need. All you, the “builder,” need to do is apply a few screws here and a little dab of glue there.

After two- and-a-half hours of what would have taken any other person who could even say the word “hammer” 20 minutes, I saw the fruits of my labor. The backing was on backwards, two of the three shelves were upside-down and I had managed to smash the top board into three pieces. I would have come out better if I had decided to light a $20 bill on fire using my still attached leg hair as flint.

So obviously I had no success in building a bookshelf, however, I now have a wonderful piece of modern art I’m going to call, “Frustrations in particleboard.”

My father, who is perhaps the most skilled person I’ve ever met when it comes to building or mending things, says that handyman skills are acquired.

Joe parker

Appen Intern news@appenmedia group.com

So obviously I had no success in building a bookshelf, however, I now have a wonderful piece of modern art I’m going to call, “Frustrations in particleboard.”

Well, so is the ability to fly an aircraft, but just as you wouldn’t want me flying you to Chicago, you should also never ask me to help you mend something.

My fiancée’s mother has attempted to improve my abilities in mending/building things by purchasing me tools for my birthday and this past Christmas. The thought is very nice and I appreciate it very much, but it seems akin to giving a pyromaniac an unlimited supply of lighter fluid; bad things are going to happen. For now that I have the tools to build (read: destroy) things, I know that I will become one of those guys that gets the sudden, uncontrollable urge to set out, grab the toolkit and build something.

To the woman whose home I rent, I’ll pay for the damages.

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community

10 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Habitat opens New courthouse lobby to be filled with art Seeking donations registration from public for 2015 Women Build ROSWELL, Ga. — Habitat for Humanity-North Central Georgia has launched registration for its annual Women Build. Women and local businesses will partner together to spend the next few months fundraising to purchase building materials to build a Habitat home for the Garas/Aziz family.

Women Build is a nationwide Habitat for Humanity initiative to empower women to build Habitat homes and change the lives of families within their community.

Habitat for HumanityNorth Central Georgia’s 2015 Women Build is sponsored by Infor and will be held between April and August in the Villages at Park Creek neighborhood in the Hickory Flat area of Woodstock, near the border of Cherokee and Fulton Counties.

Visit www.habitat-ncg. org for more information.

–Shannon Weaver

the appearance of authentic historical papers, the 30-inch by 40-inch watercolor sheets will be created with worn edges and framing to be consistent with the overall design package.

White has previously created the interior artwork at the Forsyth Conference Center and Forsyth County’s Post Road Library.

In addition to the images of the courthouses, nine Foundations of American Law and Government documents will be displayed.

These documents, which include copies of the Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence and more, will be framed and displayed to match the historical look of the courthouse images.

The courthouse art/décor work group is seeking support from the community to make this artwork a reality.

“Your generous, tax-deductible donation will help to fund the artwork that will be proudly displayed in our new courthouse,” said Beasley.

Checks can be made payable to Forsyth County Board of Commissioners and should clearly note they are designated for the courthouse artwork.

Questions can be directed to Beasley at 678-492-3816 or carlafayebeasley@gmail.com.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Construction of the new Forsyth County Courthouse is nearing completion, and Forsyth County residents now have the opportunity to be a part of its legacy.

The interior will be decorated with artwork created

by Bryan White of Whitelake Studio, an effort being coordinated by a courthouse art/décor work group. To be located along the curved walls on either side of the Clerk of Court’s Office, the artwork will reflect the solemnity and dignity of the judicial process along with the legal history of Forsyth County.

“The work group was tasked with raising funds to cover the expenses of the artwork since no construction funds had been budgeted for public art,” said Carla Beasley, chair of the courthouse art/ décor work group.

A portion of the artwork will be created from images of the six Forsyth County courthouses, from the past buildings to the one nearing completion. The images will be hand-painted and digitally enhanced to create cohesive, artistic grouping. To replicate

Bryan White created a proof of the third courthouse in Forsyth County and the first brick one, constructed in 1854.

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forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 11

Local student wins Optimist Club essay contest CUMMING, Ga. — Ian Davis, an eighth-grader at Cornerstone School, recently won the SawneeCumming Optimist Club’s 2015 essay contest. The theme for this year was “Optimism Should be a Priority.” His essay was the winner from more than 100 entered in the contest.

Davis was awarded $500 for the honor and was hosted along with his family and teacher at the club’s regular meeting. In addition, his essay will be sent to the zone level to be judged along with winners from other Optimist Clubs in northeast Georgia. If Davis wins at that level, his essay will be forwarded to the district level to be judged against winners from across the state.

“I decided to write my paper from a scientific perspective,” Davis said. “I learned that there are facts that prove we can all benefit from being optimistic.”

Perry Downen, committee chairman of the Sawnee-Cumming Club’s essay contest, praised Davis’ entry.

“Ian did a wonderful job of articulating in a clear and logical manner this year’s theme,” said Downen.

“He expressed himself well through the essay and deserved the honor of first place. We congratulate all the students and teachers who participated in this worthwhile event.”

Ian Davis won the Optimist Club essay contest for 2015.

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Community

Cub Scouts visit City Hall CUMMING, Ga. — Cub Scout Pack 207, comprised of fourth-graders from Daves Creek Elementary School, visited Cumming City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 17. The Scouts enjoyed a tour of City Hall, meeting with Mayor H. Ford Gravitt and coloring a photo of the city’s logo before leading the mayor, council and audience members in the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the monthly City Council meeting.

Cub Scout Pack 207 member Likith Vallabhaneni colors a photo of the city of Cumming logo.

Members of Cub Scout Pack 207 prepare to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the Cumming City Council meeting Feb. 17.

Cub Scout Pack 207 member Liamith Rao colors a photo of the city of Cumming logo.

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Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Pictured, from left, are District 2 Commissioner Brian R. Tam, Commission Chairman R.J. (Pete) Amos, Earnest “Ben” House, District 5 Commissioner Jim Boff, District 4 Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills and District 3 Commissioner Todd Levent.

Forsyth County recognizes retiring employee FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — At their Feb. 5 meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recognized a retiring employee for his years of service with Forsyth County government. After more than 10 years with the Forsyth County Department of Water and Sewer, Earnest “Ben” House retired from his position of water system engineer.

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South Forsyth grad accepted as research fellow at UGA muscle and help FORSYTH COUNthe field progress,” TY, Ga. – AlexanFlemington wrote dra Flemington, in a letter. “I think a 2014 graduate that this is an of South Forsyth amazing field of High School and study and has so freshman at the many applications University of Georfor the real world, gia, has been acincluding, but not cepted as a Regenlimited to, healing erative Bioscience the elderly’s injuResearch (RBC) ries so they can Fellow at UGA. The become healthy RBC is a collaboraagain as aged tion of researchers and resources to Alexandra Flemington muscle doesn’t heal as well, for advance regenerause in athlete intive medicine. juries to help them As an RBC get back to their respective Fellow, Flemington will work sports in a shorter amount of with the faculty to conduct time and even in finding cures research in the field of regenand treatments in cases where erative health, including new genetic disorders cause muscle discoveries, treatments and degradation.” cures.

Flemington hopes to pursue “I am extremely eager to be a career in orthopedics. a part of a lab that is learning – Joe Parker about new ways to regenerate

Arrests: Continued from Page 2 arrested Feb. 7 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for possession of marijuana and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Latitia Moore, 37, of Zero Lane, Milton, was arrested Feb. 7 on Jot Em Down Road in Gainesville for possession of

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Cat of the week: Missy Dog of the week: Tara Queen Tara sitting on her throne.

CUMMING, Ga. — Looking for a sweet and mild-mannered kitty to have in your home?

This is Missy, a loving and relaxed kitty looking to be a part of a family.

Beginning in the Human Society of Forsyth County’s adoption program as an expectant kitty, all of her kittens were adopted. Now it’s her turn to find

someone special to love her. This petite beauty gets along great with other cats. She would love to be a part of your life and your heart. Visit Missy at the Humane Society of Forsyth County adoption center at 4440 Keith Bridge Road from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, or fill out an application online at www.forsythpets.org.

CUMMING, Ga. – Tara has been with the Humane Society of Forsyth County for a year-and-a-half now. She is great, but the thing holding her up is that she does not do well with other dogs.

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Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 15 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Forsyth Animal Shelter Essay contest asks students to become mayor names manager FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Jeanie Curphey has been named manager of the new Forsyth County Animal Shelter at 4065 County Way in northern Forsyth. Curphey has been the shelter’s coordinator since July 2014.

As manager, Curphey will supervise, coordinate and manage the daily activities of the animal shelter personnel.

She will be responsible for the oversight of animal care, upkeep of the facility, the animal adoption process and the shelter’s community outreach programs.

“Jeanie has done a fantastic job as shelter coordinator and we are pleased to promote her to the position of shelter manager,” Deputy County Manager Tim Merritt said.

“She launched the shelter’s volunteer program, to which the community has been very responsive. Under her direction, we will be working to con-

ATLANTA – Sixth-grade students throughout the state can now enter the Georgia Municipal Association’s “If I were mayor, I would…” essay contest.

The essay will give students a chance to learn about city government, the role government plays in communities and leadership responsibilities.

The essay must begin with the words, “If I were mayor, I would” and contain no more than 350 words.

Entries may be typed or handwritten, but must contain the student’s name and school.

Any student in the sixth grade may enter the

Entry forms can be downloaded at www.gmanet.com. Entries must be submitted by March 6. contest.

Winners will be chosen by a panel of city officials from each of the GMA’s 12 districts.

Winners will receive a $250 check, other small prizes and be invited to a luncheon in Atlanta.

– Joe Parker

Jeanie Curphey tinue to expand the volunteer program and continue building strong partnerships with animal rescue organizations.”

The new 13,700-square-foot shelter was opened in August 2014.

—Joe Parker

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Emory Johns Creek Hospital expands services up 141 corridor JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Emory Johns Creek Hospital is expanding services to patients in South Forsyth.

The hospital has opened two new centers in Cumming that will specialize in wound treatment and diagnostic imaging.

“Our new locations allow us to provide extended access to existing imaging services and provide new treatment options to meet the health care needs in Johns Creek and surrounding communities,” said Marilyn Margolis, chief executive officer of Emory Johns Creek.

The new Emory Johns Creek Hospital Hyperbarics and Wound Care Services Center is on the second floor of the Physicians Immediate Med building at 2575 Peachtree Parkway, at the intersection of Mathis Airport Road and Ga. 141.

The 3,000-square-foot facility provides treatment for patients with complex or non-healing wounds caused by diseases, such as diabetes and vascular disease.

Hospital officials said the need for severe wound care treatment has grown in the past decade as a result of an aging population and higher incidences of diseases that cause these types of wounds. Patients undergoing cancer treatments can also develop wounds and lesions that are difficult to heal.

“When we pair our superior wound healing services and advanced modalities with a compassionate interdisciplinary approach, we do so much more than treat wounds,” said Carolyn Davidson, program director of the new center. “We truly believe in what we’re doing here to make people whole again.”

The Johns Creek center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and is one of four such centers in the Emory Healthcare Network. Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital and Emory University Hospital Midtown also offer hyperbaric and wound care treatments, as does Emory affiliate Southern Regional Medical Center.

The hospital has also opened a satellite imaging center at 634 Peachtree Parkway in Cumming to offer expanded access to general diagnostic imaging services and CT scans. The 2,299-squarefoot Emory Johns Creek Hospital Imaging Center, which previously operated under Saint Joseph’s Hospital, is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The 2,299-square-foot Emory Johns Creek Hospital Imaging Center in Cumming offers expanded access to diagnostic imaging services and CT scans.

“Our new location not only provides a convenient outpatient imaging location for patients in South Forsyth, it also provides additional access to imaging for our physicians,” says Chrystal Barnes, director of imaging services at Emory Johns Creek Hospital has added a wound care center in the second floor of the Physicians Immediate Med building in Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

— Patrick Fox Cumming.

BusinessPosts

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

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 17

More big, bold ideas to usher in prosperity Editor’s note: This is the fifth in a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” The report, which reflects and synthesizes the views from more than 500 individuals surveyed and economic vital signs recorded, has been used to chart the North Georgia economy and real estate for more than 25 years.

Last week, we spoke of turning North Georgia into a second-home mecca, drawing on the region’s natural beauty and proximity to Atlanta to bring added prosperity. It was one of several “big, bold, bodacious ideas” that we proposed in our annual Native Intelligence Report for 2015.

Here are a couple more: Refocus our definition of ‘work’ Coupled with moving North Georgia’s marketing from the one of tourist to the 10-timeper-year second homeowner is an opportunity to refocus our industrial recruitment efforts.

The reality of getting a major industrial user, manufacturer, assemblage or distribution center in downtown Cleveland, Clayton, Ellijay and Dahlonega is slim to none. The era of remote assemblage, weaving or cut and sew operations is GONE, and industrial recruitment machined to attract those industries and those locations is just “whistling in the wind.”

The rusting hulks of former big industrial users must be thoughtfully repurposed.

Today’s sophisticated industrial user is all about logistics, transportation or accessibility to national (interstates/ rails) if not global market places (via Savannah ports). We see a big distribution laser focused on I-85 in Jackson County but the new era dynamics is that they will build or lease 500,000 to 1 million square feet and hire maybe 40 employees. The facility is simple – one giant

W o m e n

Frank norton Jr. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency

computerized conveyor belt with sky-high stacked storage ready to be robotically picked and shipped. The employees are programmers, pickers or logistics, and the warehouse management is a computer in Hackensack.

What we have in our region is an alternative. We’re not Atlanta with its glimmering urban glass tower, and we’re not Raleigh with its sprawling meadows filled with R&D. We are a quality workforce in an environment.

The same things that will attract second-home residents will attract small entrepreneur business seeking a business climate set inside a lifestyle.

Small R&D, small service, small technology. Executive base entrepreneur owners are our best chance to diversify and strengthen our business base. Companies like Pro Therapy, Mansfield Oil and Select Labs take advantage of the close proximity to public and private air transport, adjacent to a metropolitan market but capitalize on the incredible lifestyle (housing, education, health care and recreation) for recruitment.

Yes, we should continue to try to get more Kubota’s, Toyota’s, Home Goods along our transportation corridors but also pick off the next generation companies seeking our lifestyle.

Time to talk ‘collaboration’ As Norton Native Intelligence travels the hills and valleys of our region, we are amazed at the flashes of greatness, brilliance of ideas, en-

ergy, intelligence and creativity but dismayed at the “turf-dom” that has been created between local governments, which bogs down intelligence and creativity.

We are no better than the scattered feudal hill towns across Tuscany, each with its own walled perimeter to keep marauding invaders out and isolation or progress in. Only in modern history have we seen the power in unification, not necessarily in Italy but Germany, England and other more progressive nations.

Imagine the progress that could be made in Dawson with combined Dawsonville/Dawson County collaboration. The struggles in Stephens County could be overcome with strong unification/collaboration between Toccoa and Stephens County. Why does Hall County have nine collective governments, Jackson nine and Barrow eight?

That means government on steroids, duplication of services; fire, police/sheriff, emergency responders, clerks, administration and general overhead.

But sure, it’s OK because they all have the revenue to support themselves. But, wait a minute. That revenue is ours.

Taxes, fees, assessments are what have built these governmental albatrosses and built on the backs of individual and business taxpayers.

Many would say “Norton” should mind its own business…but it is our business.

We have operations in 19 locations, sell property across 59 counties and deal with them all.

Imagine the power, if not the test scores, that a combined Gainesville/Hall County School System might have. The duplication of services and personnel is even more rampant in three separate systems: Jackson, Jefferson and Commerce schools. Keep the same

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of pooling time, talent and resources across 18th century geopolitical districts.

What terrific economies of scale you would get through inter-jurisdictional planning departments, purchasing and public works.

The efficiencies enacted by private businesses over the last seven recessionary years have had profound effect on corporate and small business’ bottom line.

It’s been the survival by the fittest not of the fittest. Call it what you want, but collaboration should be on the mind of everyone as we move forward in the new economy.

Generating interest from your prospects Are you doing a good job in generating interest for your products and services from a potential customer?

After speaking with a new prospect, are they motivated to move forward in either evaluating what you have, or making a buying decision?

Generating interest from your prospects is critical to winning new business, and if you can do a good job in doing that, your sales efforts will be a lot easier.

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potential customer. Instead of creating interest, it actually promotes a disinterest in listening any further.

Conversely, talking about how the potential customer will benefit from your product or service, how it will save them time or make them money is a completely different scenario. Generating interest with a prospect has to be about the value to them.

Getting good at a simple but powerful elevator speech that conveys the value the prospect will receive is not only a good way to generate interest from your prospects, it’s the only way!

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18 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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SBA loans: a good start for start-ups Sometimes starting a small business or expanding an existing one can be a difficult proposition to finance. To help rectify that, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has designed a number of loan programs for business owners who may have trouble coming up with a large down payment or qualifying for a traditional bank loan.

Many banks and lending institutions participate in the programs. The SBA loan application is structured so that the loan is eligible for the SBA guarantee. A traditional lender participates in the loan process, and SBA guarantees a portion of the loan to the lender in case of default.

Recently, I spoke with Jon Kaye, regional sales manager for Wells Fargo.

Wells Fargo has been the No. 1 lender in the nation for SBA loans for six

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straight years in terms of dollars loaned through the program.

When asked why someone should consider the SBA loan, Jon said, “It’s about capital preservation. The SBA program allows borrowers to put less money down and lower monthly pay-

ments.”

There are two main types of SBA loans in which Wells participates. The SBA 504 loan is for owner-occupied purchase of real estate or heavy equipment. The borrower can put down as little as 10 percent and finance the remainder. The SBA’s portion, 40 percent, is a 20-year fixed rate. Right now, that rate is around 4.6 percent. The bank would finance the remainder 50 percent at a negotiated rate and terms.

A borrower can do some really big projects with this loan. The SBA limit is $5 million, but the bank’s traditional side can go up higher, yielding around $13 million in financed funds.

The second loan, SBA 7a, encompasses a lot more business needs. Real estate and business acquisition, partner buyout, working capital, leasehold

improvements and equipment purchases are among the items the loan will finance. Most lenders require 10 percent down for this program. There is a $5 million maximum for the loan, and typically the traditional lender provides 90 percent of the financing.

The advantage to the bank is that the SBA guarantees up to 75 percent of the loan. The advantage to the borrower is that, because of this guarantee the bank has less risk; and therefore, can pass along the reduced risk in a more affordable loan.

The SBA program continues to grow and provide more opportunities for small business owners. As Jon Kaye said, “We are encouraged by the way things are going...more and more borrowers see the advantages of SBA and are requesting financing.”

BusinessBriefs PEOPLE »

Cucchino joins Harry Norman as marketing coordinator CUMMING, Ga. — Harry Norman Realtors Forsyth/Lake Lanier office has added Jeff Cucchino as marketing coordinator.

Cucchino has a bachelor’s of fine arts degree in illustration and has spent the past 20 years in advertising, marketing and graphic design. As marketing coordinator, he is responsible for the design, Cucchino print and distribution of press releases, brochures, flyers, invitations and other marketing materials for agents. In addition, he is in charge of the optimization of social media sites, individual agent web pages and other advertising items as agents need them.

Sean Brown hired at Young Entrepreneurs CUMMING, Ga. — Sean Brown, a junior at the University of Georgia and graduate of West Forsyth High School, has been hired as a branch manager for Student Painters, a sector of Young Entrepreneurs Across America.

Brown is running his own branch in the Cumming area. He is responsible for conducting every BROWN aspect of the business, which includes marketing the company, managing a crew of painters, and selling paint jobs.

For more information about Student Painters, visit southeaststudentpainters.com.

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Lennar Atlanta adds three home consultants ROSWELL, Ga. — Lennar Atlanta has welcomed three new home consultants to its staff to concentrate on Cobb, Forsyth and Cherokee counties as the company continues to expand.

“Since we opened in 2010, we have built more than 1,200 homes in more than 30 residential communities throughout the metro Atlanta area,” said Ginny Bryant, director of sales and marketing.

Anne Kriebel has worked as a general real estate agent in Atlanta for 15 years, including two years on site at Brookhaven at Johns Creek, an active adult community.

Donna Brown has extensive real estate experience and has been honored with both the Re/Max Platinum Award and the Phoenix Multi Million Award.

She previously worked in new home sales with John Wieland Homes.

Alicia Sipsy, a native of Cobb County, has more than 10 years’ experience in new home sales with Edward Andrews Homes and Harry Norman Realtors, and has worked with various builder groups throughout Paulding and Cobb.

AWARDS »

Law firm receives magazine’s top rating ALPHARETTA, Ga. — U.S. News & World Report has listed Alpharetta law firm Morgan & DiSalvo on its Tier One list of Best Law Firms for 2015. Firms included in the list are graded on professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

The 2015 rankings are based on the highest number of particiDiSalvo pating firms and highest number of client ballots on record. To be eligible, a firm must have a practice listed in the Best Lawyers in America, which recognizes the top 4 percent of practicing attorneys in the country.

Morgan & DiSalvo was one of only 10 firms in the Atlanta area to receive the Tier One designation in the practice of trusts and estates.

UPS honors Georgia drivers for 25 years of safe driving ATLANTA — UPS announced 71 elite drivers from Georgia were among 1,445 newly inducted worldwide into the Circle of Honor, an honorary organization for UPS drivers who have achieved 25 or more years of accident-free driving. Georgia boasts 366 active Circle of Honor drivers with a combined 10,392 years of accident-free driving.

“My thanks go to all of them for their dedication and focus, and for the countless lives they’ve saved,” said Dwayne Meeks, president, UPS South Atlantic District.

Georgia drivers inducted this year include Jonathan Elrod and Michael Wroblewski of Alpharetta and Charles Gordon of Cumming.

calendar

EDITOR’S PICKS

Submit your event online at forsythherald.com

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 19

Send

me your event...

shannon weaver

Calendar Editor calendar@ HOMERS appenmediagroup.com

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

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

A female sportswriter must decide if a homer can ever really leave home. World premiere presented

by Georgia Ensemble Theatre at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street in Roswell.

Thursday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m.

Tickets range from $25 to $35.

Visit get.org for more info.

EVENTS:

FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

Spring is right around the corner. Let us bring you on a journey from darkness into light with music. at Cambridge High School, 2845 Bethany Bend in Milton. Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $10 to $30. Visit georgiaphilharmonic. org for more info.

Come hear choirs from several area churches at Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 888 Zion Circle in Roswell.

Saturday, Feb. 28, 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Visit roswellroots.com for more info.

PASTRY & PERFORMANCE

What: Sweet treats provided by Panera Bread and sweet sounds provided by guitarist Chuck Beckman, harpist Lorretta Marks and others.

Where: Northside Hospital Forsyth, 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive in Cumming When: Sunday, March 1 Hours: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: $10 donation per ticket Contact: 770-888-9212 or nancymack.cello@gmail.com

MEAL & MEMORIES WITH DAD

WINE AND DINE IN ITALY

What: Come be a part of this class as we tour this great country and some of its offerings.

Where: Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road in Alpharetta When: Saturday, Feb. 28 Hours: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Cost: $45 Web: awesomealpharetta.com

UNITY CONCERT

CHALK PAINT DEMO

What: See how easy it is to rescue, restore and redecorate a piece of furniture using Amy Howard’s One Step Chalk Paint.

Where: Ace Hardware Crabapple, 12350 Arnold Mill Road in Alpharetta When: Saturday, Feb. 28 Hours: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Cost: Free

What: Share a delightful day out with your daughter, with a delicious meal, games, and make a keepsake picture frame craft together.

Where: American Girl at North Point Mall, 1202 North Point Circle in Alpharetta When: Friday, Feb. 27 Hours: 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Cost: $38 per person Web: americangirl.com

Races & benefits: MILTON MAYOR’S RUN

What: Jog for a Cause 5K, a Peachtree Road Race qualifier benefiting childhood cancer organizations and Milton Parks and Rec. Where: Freedom Park, 13200 Deerfield Parkway in Milton When: Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 a.m.

Cost: $25 Web: active.com

30 UNDER 30

Show featuring local artists Payton Wood, Devin Hunter and Ryan Benefield, all under the age of 30 at Sedgwick Gallery, 61 Roswell Street in Alpharetta. Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Visit sedgwickgallery.com for more info.

Village.

Where: Warsaw Church, 9770 Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek When: Saturday, Feb. 28 Hours: Pre-concert gathering at 7 p.m., performance at 8 p.m.

Cost: $20, $14 for Autrey Mill members and Johns Creek residents Web: autreymill.org Oklahoma! Presented by Roswell UMC’s Acting Up. When: Saturday, Feb. 20 Hours: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $10 general admission, $25 reserved seats Info: Friday night only Web: rumcactingup.webs.com

music:

GREENHOUSE OPEN HOUSE

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What: CNC is inviting all to come visit their Greenhouse where they grow native plants. Attendees will learn about spring plantings, focusing on plants for backyard habitats including witchazels, buckeyes and azaleas.

Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Wileo Road in Roswell When: Saturday Feb. 28 Hours: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Cost: Free Online: www.chattnaturecenter.org

THOMAS MARRIOTT QUARTET

ANDY OFFUTT IRWIN

What: Spend an evening enjoying live music during Autrey Mill Nature Preserve’s “Unplugged” event as Andy Offutt Irwin performs at Warsaw Church in the preserve’s Heritage

What: Trumpeter Thomas Marriott is one of the most exciting musicians to emerge on the national jazz scene in more than a decade.

Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta When: Friday, Feb. 27 Hours: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $22 Web: thevelvetnote.com

20 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Gwinnett Tech seeks to capitalize on business needs Dean, superintendent give updates

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – When the new North Fulton campus of Gwinnett Technical College opens for classes in early January 2016, it will bring with it space for nearly 1,100 students of all ages – from elementary-age children at summer camp to adults looking to further their education.

The North Fulton dean for Gwinnett Tech, Jeremy Bennett, said the campus is open to filling whatever needs the North Fulton community demands.

“What the community asks for, that is what we are going to do. We want to fill the jobs that are needed,” he said.

He made his remarks at the Feb. 19 meeting of the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce at the Alpharetta Athletic Club.

The key in the school’s offerings, he said, is a need from the business community of North Fulton.

“If there is a large enough need, we will develop a program,” Bennett said.

He explained how every eye doctor in the state needs

For more about the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce, visit them online at alpharettachamber.com. trained ophthalmic technicians, however there is no school in the state offering degrees or training. Except Gwinnett Tech.

“If you tell me there will be 60-100 [new] jobs in the next year, I can develop programs for them,” Bennett said.

For college students, the course offerings will be business-oriented (such as logistics), information technology, cybercrime, criminal justice and early childhood education.

More offerings will be added in the future, as demand dictates.

Beyond college-age students and adults, Bennett said the school hopes to appeal to high schoolers and younger students.

Starting next summer, the campus will offer summer camps for children grades 3-8.

These camps will teach the students everything from coding to robotics, with capacity

JONATHAN COPSEY/Staff

Gwinnett Tech North Fulton Dean Jeremy Bennett, center, spoke at the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce breakfast Feb. 19. With him are Alpharetta City Councilmember Jim Gilvin, Alpharetta Chamber Chairman Fergal Brady, Bennett, Chamber General Manager Ciara Rubin and Chamber President Hans Appen. for up to 1,100 campers.

The college will begin offering early college academy in fall of 2015, allowing students in high schools to earn college credit, or even graduate high school with an associate’s degree.

Gwinnett Tech’s North

Fulton campus is expected to open this November, with students going to class in January 2016.

“I am very pumped up right now,” Bennett said.

Also speaking with Bennett was Fulton County Public Schools Superintendent Robert

Avossa, who gave an overview of the school system.

With 90 schools and 100,000 students, the Fulton County School System is large.

Fulton is the largest noncontiguous school system in

See NEEDS, Page 30

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Sponsored Section

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 21

Family-operated senior living in Forsyth The Oaks Senior Living is family-operated with two communities in Forsyth County, The Oaks at Post Road and The Oaks at Hampton.

The Oaks serves to provide a home that our residents would be proud to call their own. Further, The Oaks have achieved this mission by creating an environment that promotes physical, social, and spiritual well-being in a Christian setting.

It’s our goal to provide a lifestyle that not only provides peace of mind to residents, but also to their family members.

Each apartment is carefully designed to encourage independent living, while providing round the clock access to staff and assistance with activities of daily living.

We are proud to be licensed as an Assisted Living Community which allows us to deliver expanded care and services to residents.

As a result, residents are often able to stay in their new home without ever having to move. The Oaks at Hampton is located off Highway 400 in North Forsyth County and The Oaks at Post Road is located off Highway 20 in West

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You can also visit us online at www. oaksseniorliving.com.

22 February 25, 2015

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

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

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

becomes more and more distorted as it enters your eye.

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

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

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What is laser cataract surgery?

With traditional cataract surgery, all the steps of the surgery are customarily performed “manually” by the surgeon using handheld tools. Laser cataract surgerythe next evolution of cataract surgery with the Ziemer Z6 laser generally offers a greater amount of precision, predictability and safety to these steps leading to potentially improve visual outcomes and

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more precise targets. With the Ziemer Z6 Laser System, your surgeon has the potential to offer you unmatched accuracy and a more predictable and customized cataract procedure.

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

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

How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery?

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

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

What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery?

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

Your surgeon and you will decide whether you are a suitable candidate based on your eye anatomy, type of cataract and type of lens implant that you desire. Most patients are candidates for having some of the steps of cataract surgery performed with the Ziemer Z6

laser.

How long has the procedure been performed?

Thousands of cataract procedures have been successfully performed using femtosecond laser systems, and femtosecond lasers have been used in eye procedures for decades.

The most familiar use of femtosecond laser technology is LASIK. Femtosecond lasers represent an advanced standard in precision laser cataract surgery and the Ziemer Z6 platform was FDA cleared in 2013.

What should I expect on the day of surgery?

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

What should I expect after surgery?

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

Generally, patients experience no pain after surgery.

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

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

Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

February 25, 2015 23

Diabetes linked to hearing loss Brought to you by North Fulton Ear Nose & Throat Associates

revolutionary devices at their sides:

Identical 80-year-old twin brothers living free of heart failure symptoms (NAPSI)—One of the most common reasons people 65 and older go to the hospital is heart failure.

Jim Olsen is just one of the approximately 5.7 million Americans who are living with heart failure today, and his constant readmissions to the hospital did nothing to alleviate his symptoms and fear as he felt progressively worse.

Were it not for his twin brother John, Jim might not be here today. John is also a heart failure sufferer, but while the brothers are identical in looks and even nearly identical in their troubling heart issues, the care each brother received as his heart failure got progressively worse was as different as fire and ice.

Since John’s diagnosis of heart failure in 1999, he and his cardiologist adequately managed his symptoms for more than a decade, but when they became progressively worse, his cardiologist knew it was time for more-advanced care and referred him on to the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital.

The Shands team was working with more-innovative technologies to help heart failure patients, and for folks like John who are too old to be considered for a transplant, the referral became instrumental in his long-term prognosis.

John learned about the HeartMate II® Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), a revolutionary medical device that could help his weakened heart to more efficiently pump the blood it was no longer able to adequately pump on its own.

“I was extremely lucky that my cardiologist knew I needed something more and was willing to give me that opportunity. He sent me to the right place at the right time,” said John Olsen.

Within a year and a half of his cardiologist’s referral, John received the HeartMate II, and shortly thereafter, was enjoying more energy and life than he had in years.

Unfortunately, his brother Jim, who was also diagnosed with heart failure

Jim Olsen is just one of the approximately 5.7 million Americans who are living with heart failure today, and his constant readmissions to the hospital did nothing to alleviate his symptoms and fear as he felt progressively worse. around the same time as John and started exhibiting worsening symptoms shortly after John did, was not referred for more-advanced treatment. Like so many other heart failure sufferers, Jim instead went through a long and harrowing experience of consistent admissions and readmissions into various hospitals throughout Florida for nearly three years.

“I was scared and frustrated, but John quickly inspired me by both how well he felt and how much energy he had,” recalls Jim Olsen. “The HeartMate II was working and my brother and I quickly went to work to get me into Shands as well.”

Today, they are again identical in every way, including their HeartMate II LVADs, which has given each the gift of more time to celebrate life with family and friends. To learn more about HeartMate II LVAD advanced therapy for heart failure sufferers, visit www.

HeartMateII.com/empower.

A link exists between adults with type 2 diabetes and hearing loss. In diabetic people age 60 or older, high blood sugar causes tiny blood vessels in the inner ear to break, disrupting sound reception. Diabetes often results in chronic kidney disease (CKD).

The link between CKD and hearing loss has been known for decades. The kidney and the Stria Vascularis of the cochlea share physiologic, ultrastructural and antigenic similarities and therefore, the link between diabetes and hearing loss may be indirect but does exist.

It is recommended that diabetic patients have their hearing screened upon identification and then annually thereafter. The effects of untreated hearing loss include embarrassment, irritability, avoidance of or withdrawal

from social activities and personal relationships and impaired memory.

Auditory deprivation means “use it or lose it”! Although we detect sounds with our ears, our brain makes sense of the sounds. Over time, the brain’s ability to understand speech is often affected by hearing loss. Once the ability to understand is lost, it can be difficult to regain. Wearing hearing instruments can assist the brain in maintaining the ability to understand speech. A peer reviewed study conducted by the National Council on Aging provides evidence of the benefits of hearing aids, including improved overall health, better interpersonal relationships and a reduction in frustration, anxiety and depression.

To learn more or schedule a consultation call North Fulton ENT in Roswell 770-343-8675 or Cumming 770-886-5821 www.NorthFultonENT. com

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Take control of your hearing and your life Hearing loss and balance disorders are not just age-related. Other medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, infection, and primary disorders of the ear can be the cause. If left untreated, people with hearing loss are up to five times more likely to suffer from dementia. Studies have shown that hearing amplification can drastically improve patients’ quality of life.

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24 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Sea Island, St. Simons and Black History Month While the objective of most travel is to entertain and relax, sometimes it’s important to take a look at some of our past that wasn’t quite so rosy. As part of Black History Month, I’d say that’s an auspicious conjunction to devote a few moments to look into the darker side of our history.

With the weather outside being just this side of frightful, you can imagine how delightful it was two weekends ago to see daffodils in full bloom and stroll in the sunshine without a jacket on Sea Island and St. Simons Island.

Jemille williams

Senior contributor on TripAdvisor jemille@bellsouth.net So even though it’s not quite beach weather, the marquee resorts like The Cloister and the King & Prince do have indoor pools. And although it may not be warm enough to lie on the sand, it’s a great time to ride a horse on the beach!

If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, bear in mind that this is low season.

There are accommodations to work with almost every wallet with condo and home rentals, and even resorts with specials in the double digits.

If your property doesn’t offer an indoor pool, a beach stroll is absolutely possible, with lots of public access.

Have a grand old time – gobbling up seafood and shopping at the cute shops – but on your way home, pause a bit to check out the Tabby

Slave Cabins on Gascoigne Bluff. They are two of the best-preserved slave cabins in the entire country and merit a visit, however brief.

This is an especially exciting time in the history of their preservation.

They are painstakingly removing the Portland cement that had been applied in the 1990s in a well-intentioned (but misguided) attempt to maintain them.

The Cassina Garden Club are the doting docents who own and care for the cabins, and are so passionate about them.

They are willing to meet with any Appen Media readers (if their schedules permit) to open them up and show you around. If you don’t make prior arrangements, you can still walk around and peek in the windows.

The Golden Isles can be viewed as representing not just the nadir of slavery, but also the zenith of their emancipation when they were given

Tabby Slave Cabins Where: 100 Arthur Moore Drive, St. Simons Island, Ga. 31522 Cost: No admission fee, but donations welcome Scheduled opening Sat. Feb. 21 Hours: 10a.m. – noon More info: visit cassinagardenclub.org/ cabins_history or call 912-230-9194 their own land to have and to hold.

They formed close-knit communities that kept the language and ways of their homeland alive.

Few remain today, as their land was just too valuable not to sell to the hordes of sunseeking vacationers.

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community

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 25 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Roswell Rotary works to Roswell ‘Daughter’ tackle human trafficking donates Civil War book

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Human trafficking is alive and well in metro Atlanta.

That is the message Dave McCleary gave to Roswell Rotary Feb. 12, as an update on the state of the group’s efforts to halt the trafficking trade.

“A lot of the time, the community is not engaged,” he said. “Rotary can change the world. We’ve done it before.

We eliminated polio and spread AIDS awareness. We can do anything.”

McCleary said the girls involved in human trafficking are not just poor or from rough families.

“She’s your neighbor and your daughter,” he said. “Any child can be at risk. We’ve seen it all happen.”

When McCleary first got into the cause of stopping human trafficking, he met a girl who grew up in Roswell.

She would babysit for Rotary members. Then she became mixed up with a man who turned out to be a pimp. She spent years on drugs and prostituting herself before she

was able to break away.

She now speaks out against the trade.

McCleary has taken the cause to heart and now helps lead Rotary International’s efforts to stop human trafficking.

“They aren’t somebody else’s problem, they are our problem,” he said.

The average age of girls in the sex trade is 13, he said.

Older “boyfriends” stalk and flatter the girls, befriending them before separating them from their families and friends.

Ultimately the girl is enticed or forced into prostitution.

Atlanta is a major hub of human trafficking. It is in the top 13 cities in the world for the slave trade, largely because it is a transit hub.

But it also has a lot of money, especially on the north side of the city.

The sex slaves go where the money is.

Gov. Nathan Deal has created a task force to tackle the issue.

The efforts are widespread.

Some of it is simply raising

They aren’t somebody else’s problem, they are our problem.”

Dave McCleary Director for the Americas, Rotarians Against Child Slaves

awareness, such as educating hotel staffers on the warning signs of a trafficked person.

The General Assembly is working on a bill to reduce trafficking in the state by 50 percent within five years and is looking at laws decriminalizing the trafficking victims.

“This is only the beginning of the movement,” McCleary said. “We can combine to change the world.”

To learn more about human trafficking and efforts to stop it, visit www.endHTnow. com.

CUMMING, Ga. — Roswell resident Paulette Snoby, a member of Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War (DUVCW) and author of the Civil War book “April’s Revolution,” recently donated a copy of her book and other Civil War non-fiction books to the Bell Research Library, located in the Historic Cumming School, 101 School St. Frank Clark and Clark Rye of the Bell Research Library showed Snoby the shelves containing 6,000 books and artifacts from the Civil War, World War I and World War II. The library focuses on local history and genealogy of the southeastern states from colonial times to the present.

“Today, people are separated from their history,” said Clark. “We want everyone young and old to know and appreciate their roots.”

Use of the research center is free as a public community service open to all, including DAR, Colonial Dames, UDC and DUVCW members looking for ancestral ties.

The museum and library is dedicated to the South’s history and culture with the

Frank Clark and Clark Rye observed artifacts. collection and maintenance of original and reproduction artifacts and printed materials. The library is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is sponsored by volunteers from the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp No. 1642.

community

26 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Fire department announces fire safety poster contest Third-grade students encouraged to participate FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Fire Department invites all local thirdgrade students to display their artistic talents while promoting fire safety by participating in the fifth annual Forsyth Coun-

outstanding entries and we are looking forward to the same again this year.”

The contest is open to all third-grade students in Forsyth County public and private schools and home-schooled

ty Fire Safety Poster Contest.

“The Forsyth County Fire Department is excited to be holding our fire safety poster contest for the fifth year,” Division Chief Jason Shivers said. “Each year, we receive

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Posters should be submitted no later than March 31 to: Forsyth County Fire Department Attn: Public Safety Education Division 3520 Settingdown Road Cumming, Ga. 30028 sions of 8.5 inches by 11 inches and maximum dimensions of 18 inches by 24 inches) with the required release form securely fastened to the back.

Posters will not be accepted if they are on poster board.

A panel of five judges will be judging the submissions.

All artwork submitted becomes the property of the Forsyth County Fire Department and may be reproduced.

The release form and other contest information can be found on the fire department page of the Forsyth County website at www.forsythco.com.

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students. The posters should reflect one of the following themes: Practice your home fire drill Check the door for heat Get down low and crawl under smoke Firefighters are your friends Three winners will enjoy a pizza party with their class and local firefighters. The three winners and three runners up will have their artwork displayed in county buildings.

Forsyth County Fire Chief Danny Bowman said the contest is an excellent way to increase fire safety awareness and involve the community’s students.

“The Forsyth County Fire Department has a very active Public Safety Education Division,” Bowman said. “Our annual poster contest is just one way we engage students to work toward our goal of preventing incidents from occurring through public education.”

Entries should be the students’ own original designs and artwork. Clipart and copyrighted characters or logos will not be accepted.

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Takes place Feb. 28 ATLANTA – A Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) recruiting event for Lake Lanier Islands Resort will take place Feb. 28.

GDOL’s Gainesville Career Center will help Lake Lanier fill about 100 seasonal jobs.

That recruitment will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford.

Lake Lanier is recruiting personnel to work at its beach, campgrounds and Lanierworld, a water park. Among those positions will be lifeguards, water quality controllers and other workers.

All of the positions require

the employee to be available to work on weekdays, evenings, weekends and holidays.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old on the day of the recruitment. While some job experience is preferred, the company will train the workers, so experience is not required.

Salaries will depend on the position and will be discussed with the applicant during the interview with the employer.

To apply online, job seekers may go to www.lakelanierislands.com/careers.

For additional information about the recruitment, contact GDOL’s Gainesville Career Center at 770-535-5484.

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Pictured with some of the paperbacks are National Junior Honor Society President Ben Meersman and member Maddie Sullivan.

Pinecrest collecting paperbacks for military thru Feb. 27 CUMMING, Ga. — Pinecrest Academy Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society is working in conjunction with Project Mail Call to send paperback books to members of the U.S. military deployed abroad.

The NJHS is collecting paperback books from the Pinecrest community through Feb. 27 for their project “Paperbacks for Patriots.”

Members decorated boxes and made posters for the project at their

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regular monthly meeting in February.

THE SPANISH ACADEMY

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Questions? Contact the School Office at 770-751-3646 or visit thespanishacademy.com

community

28 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Bob Lupton: help without hurting

‘Toxic Charity’ author speaks on empowering communities

By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Bob Lupton, author of “Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help, and How to Reverse It,” wanted to share a message from the book with the audience at Roswell United Methodist Church – how to give help that really helps.

At the Feb. 10 event hosted

by North Fulton Community Charities, Lupton warned against charities that create dependency rather than longterm solutions.

“Never do for others what they can do for themselves,” said Lupton, who is the founder of Focused Community Strategies Urban Ministries, which works with underserved neighborhoods in Atlanta.

People who do charity work can insult and disempower the very people they are trying to help, Lupton said.

“There is a reason why we don’t see the poor in our nation moving out of poverty,” Lupton said. “I think that it is largely because we have emphasized emergency assistance to folks who need learning-tofish kind of support.”

Bob Lupton Part of the solution requires changing how society sees the poor, he said.

“Instead of seeing them as people in need, we’ve got to start seeing them as people with resources,” Lupton said.

“No one is so poor in our community that they have nothing

to bring to the exchange.”

Guests had the opportunity to comment and ask questions.

A graduate student from Kennesaw State University asked what government involvement should look like.

“My initial reaction is no, we don’t need more government involvement; we need more of the kind of involvement that’s on the ground, that’s personal. It has a much better chance of having longterm redemptive impact,” Lupton said.

There were two areas Lupton said the government was responsible for: education and health care.

“We’re the only industrialized modernized society that doesn’t provide health care for its citizens. I think that’s a human right,” he said. “Frankly, I don’t understand the argument that says, ‘let people fend for themselves for their own health care.’”

Ollie Wagner, senior pastor of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, asked Lupton his thoughts on raising the minimum wage.

“I’m concerned minimum wage is too low for folks to make a living and be self-suf-

I’m concerned minimum wage is too low for folks to make a living and be self-sufficient.

Perhaps they know how to fish, but the waters are toxic themselves and there aren’t many fish.”

Ollie Wagner Senior pastor of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church

ficient,” Wagner said. “Perhaps they know how to fish, but the waters are toxic themselves and there aren’t many fish.”

But Lupton wasn’t sure a minimum wage increase is the answer.

“I don’t know the economic impact of raising the minimum wage. I tend toward market solutions,” Lupton said. “In the meantime, there are things we can do that enable people with small incomes to increase their buying power.”

While Lupton warned that some charities create depen-

dency, he praised the work of North Fulton Community Charities.

“My sense is that you are doing as good a job as any city I’ve seen,” he said. “You may be a model for this country.”

Vonda Malbrough, director of development at NFCC, appreciated Lupton’s message.

“The purpose was to show if we’re going to give support, let’s provide dignity in that support,” Malbrough said. “I felt [Lupton] was a really great speaker; he gave a message of hope.”

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schools

forsythherald.com | Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 29

Legislature tackles education bills Opportunity districts, AP History on radar

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – In a legislative session consumed mainly with transportation initiatives in Georgia, a few education issues are making headlines under the Gold Dome.

Hot topics include a plan for state control of low performing schools and spirited debate surrounding revisions to the Advanced Placement U.S. History (APUSH) curriculum.

Last week, Gov. Nathan Deal made good on his pledge to create an Opportunity School District (OSD) in Georgia composed of the lowest performing schools in the state.

The idea models the Louisiana Recovery District, which has been in place since 2003 and now includes the majority of schools in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

Sen. Butch Miller (RGainesville), Deal’s floor leader, introduced legislation last week for the OSD, which requires not only bipartisan legislative support but a constitutional amendment approved

by voters. Miller indicated the goal this session is to develop the enabling legislation, which outlines how the district will be governed and operated, and to place the amendment on the ballot in 2016.

Under the OSD, the state will temporarily step in to help chronically underperforming schools – those schools that score below 60 on the College and Career Performance Index (CCRPI), for three consecutive years. The CCRPI is an annual state measure of a school’s effectiveness based on a number of variables.

The schools would remain in the OSD for at least five years, but no longer than 10 years before returning to the local school district.

In Fulton County, seven schools, all in South Fulton, would qualify to become part of the Opportunity School District based on their sub-60 scores on the CCRPI for the last three years.

Details of who would govern the district, how local control would be maintained and how the district would be funded are still being formulated, but education leaders welcome any support for struggling schools.

“I applaud that the governor is looking at bold, innovative ways to help struggling schools,” said Robert Avossa,

Review: Continued from Page 1 Olens again for his help in determining the next step.

In his second letter, Miles said he hopes “this letter will help to clarify this matter and, once clarified, you will reconsider your decision to withhold your Miles opinion.”

An investigatory panel that was to decide in January whether Councilman Sexton should be impeached instead advised the City Council to punt the issue to Olens.

The potential impeachment arose after Olens Sexton was accused of releasing personal financial and health insurance information of Cumming city employees on Facebook, including Mayor H. Ford Gravitt’s girlfriend, Angela Mullinax.

Sexton has denied this.

Miles said Jan. 20 the panel is concerned with two legal issues. Before they were to take any further action in the impeachment process, Miles said the panel requested an opinion from the attorney general of Georgia or a declaratory judgment action in Supreme

“Parents outside the [Louisuperintendent of the Fulton siana] districts are asking how School System. “There’s no their children can get in,” said silver bullet answer, so my Tyler Barr, leghope is that islative policy it will start a specialist with conversation in the Georgia our legislature PTA. that brings new In a piece ideas to light of legislation and refocuses that may be the discussion more bluster on how we can than muster, work together Senate Resoluto improve tion 80 seeks public educato demand the tion for all College Board children.” either use the He noted reprevious curcovery districts riculum in the in Tennessee AP U.S. Hisand Michigan tory courses or are relatively revise the curnew programs rent test with with little data an “emphasis available to on America’s show effectivefounding prinness, but Louiciples and the siana has seen uniqueness of some pockets America’s role of improvement in the world.” through charter Supporters management maintain the organizations Robert Avossa recent revisions and startup Superintendent of the Fulton School to the APUSH charters.

System curriculum A spokes“minimizes disman for the cussion of America’s Founding Georgia PTA noted supporters Fathers, the principles of the of the OSD point to success in Declaration of Independence Louisiana and are optimistic of [and] the religious influences success in Georgia.

Court.

At issue is the question of whether Section 51 of the city charter dealing with the city’s impeachment process is fair, providing appropriate due process for Sexton; and whether the release of the employees’ information violated state and federal privacy laws in OCGA Section 50-18-72(A), Subsection 20 through 21 or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, HIPPA. But on Feb. 4, Olens responded saying it’s inappropriate for his office to weigh in on the local matter.

Regarding the city’s impeachment process, Olens said it’s “a matter of only local concern that requires familiarity not only with local laws, but with specific facts to which this office is not privy.”

Miles responded to this by saying he “respectfully disagrees that this is a matter of only local concern, for it is quite common for local governments to adopt Roberts Rules of Order by reference when their local ordinances do not provide for every situation.”

Olens went on to say, in his original response, given the nature of the question and the likelihood of litigation, “It would be inappropriate for my office to weigh in on this matter at this time.”

For the second matter regarding potential privacy law violations, Olens said, “It is clear that any attempt to answer the questions posed would necessitate a specific factual review of the circumstances surrounding the type of information collected and maintained

There’s no silver bullet answer, so my hope is that it will start a conversation in our legislature that brings new ideas to light and refocuses the discussion on how we can work together to improve public education for all children.”

on our nation’s history” while presenting a “radicalized revisionist” view of American history.

The resolution is sponsored

by Sen. William Ligon, who last year unsuccessfully fought the battle to eliminate the Common Core Curriculum Standards in Georgia. While it has the support of State School Superintendent Richard Woods, it likely will go nowhere since taking AP courses is optional for students and is nationally directed.

The College Board, which administers the AP program as well as the SAT, said the revised curriculum is in use across the country and has broad support of educators, as well as support from the American Historical Association, the Organization of American Historians, the National Council for Social Studies and the National Council for History Education.

If the College Board does not acquiesce to Georgia’s demands, the resolution says state funding to support APUSH will be withdrawn. Approximately 14,000 students take the APUSH exams each year.

The House and Senate are scheduled to meet in a joint hearing this week to discuss S.R. 80.

Timeline of events • Dec. 16, 2014: Councilmen hold City Council meeting, discuss insurance policies. Later on that night, city employees’ health insurance document is leaked on social media.

• Dec. 23, 2014: Council holds special called meeting regarding leaked document and possible impeachment of Councilman Rupert Sexton. Votes to create investigatory panel.

• Jan. 13: Investigatory panel interviews Mayor H. Ford Gravitt, Councilman Lewis Ledbetter, Councilman Ralph Perry and Human Resources Director Phil Higgins.

by the city, the reason for doing so, the specific information that was released and the circumstances surrounding that release.”

Miles responded by asking Olens to read the original request and if necessary, he will attempt to provide any additional specific information.

Another issue Olens had with giving a response was the issue of the federal investigation currently taking place.

“To my knowledge, there is no federal investigation as to whether the

• Jan. 20: Protest held over Angela Mullinax getting health insurance through the city, prior to special called meeting in which investigatory panel brings findings to council. Panel decides to ask Georgia’s attorney general for legal opinion.

• Feb. 4: AG responds, saying he is unable to provide the requested review.

• Feb. 10: Higgins appears before grand jury in response to subpoenas for information about Mullinax, Miles and Gravitt.

• Feb. 11: Miles returns a letter back to the AG asking for a review on same initial issues. disclosure of information by a member of the city of Cumming City Council violated the Georgia Open Records Act,” Miles wrote. “I cannot imagine why any federal investigation would concern itself with issues related to the state statutes related to record production.”

Miles asked Olens to “reconsider his decision to withhold guidance from the state’s law department on these issues which, doubtless, have far reaching impact for their application of state law to local government institutions.”

community

30 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald

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Northeast Georgia Medical Center rated 1st in Ga.; 2nd in nation GAINESVILLE, Ga. – Northeast Georgia Medical Center has been ranked Georgia’s No. 1 hospital for the second consecutive year, and the second in the nation, according to a recent study by CareChex, an independent health care quality rating service.

The CareChex study includes virtually all general, acute, non-federal U.S. hospitals and measures them across several categories including quality of medical care, outcomes of care and patient satisfaction. The 2015 study rated NGMC second in the nation for overall hospital care.

“To be named one of the top three hospitals in the nation, between other

industry icons like Mayo Clinic’s flagship campus in Rochester, Minnesota and University of Michigan Health System is quite an honor,” said Carol Burrell, president and chief executive officer of Northeast Georgia Health System. “Our clinical staff, support staff, providers, board members, volunteers and leaders bring a passion for excellence to the table each day – striving to be better tomorrow than we are today – and it shows.”

The CareChex study rated NGMC first in Georgia for overall hospital care, overall medical care and overall surgical care – thus earning the distinction of Georgia’s No. 1 hospital.

“Being rated first across so many different specialties speaks volumes about how our entire medical staff works together to improve the health of our community in all we do,” said Dr. Priscilla Strom, chief of NGMC’s medical staff and a general surgeon with the Longstreet Clinic PC. “The awards are just a byproduct of a team effort that saves and improves lives, one person at a time.”

Hospitals do not apply to be part of the CareChex study, and they cannot opt out of being rated.

To learn more about services offered through NGMC and Northeast Georgia Health System, visit www.nghs.com or call 770-219-3840.

The study also rated NGMC • Georgia’s No. 1 Surgery Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Heart Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Orthopedic Surgery Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Vascular Surgery Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Women’s Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Neurological Hospital • Georgia’s No. 1 Pulmonary Hospital

JC Business Association increases scholarship offerings Deadline for applications March 6 JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Seniors at Chattahoochee, Johns Creek, Lambert and North-

view high schools have a few more days to apply for the Johns Creek Business As-

sociation 2015 Scholarship Awards.

This year, the JCBA has increased funding so that each school will have a dedicated $1,500 scholarship awarded to the top student applicant. Students have until March 6 to submit their paperwork.

“The Business Association has always appreciated the role that our schools play in the economic development of our region. Our students are

some of our best ambassadors, and we are proud that this year we are able to expand the scholarship program to give back to their families,” said Denise Wagner, JCBA president.

Member businesses have been funding the program since 2009 and over that time have awarded 19 scholarships.

Applications are available at www.johnscreekba.com and need to be received by March 6 in order to be considered for 2015.

This is the first year that a student from each of the high schools will receive funding.

The JC Business Association is launching a major regional membership drive for

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the nation, bisected by Atlanta Public Schools. As such, Avossa said it is largely three separate systems – South Fulton, which is largely AfricanAmerican and poor; Sandy Springs, which is very diverse both racially and economically; and North Fulton, which is largely white and affluent.

Overall, the county’s graduation rate is up about 8 percent since Avossa took the helm in 2011.

Avossa said he hopes to have the system reach 90 percent graduation rate within the next few years.

“For the first time since we started tracking graduation rates, we have passed Cobb and Gwinnett [counties],” Avossa said.

Fulton County is now a “charter school system,” which exempts the system from much of the bureaucratic red tape typically held to school systems. The exemption makes the school system similar to a charter school.

He said the system has

2015 in the hopes of encouraging businesses in the South Forsyth and Centennial High School corridors to join the networking group and establish opportunities at those schools.

Established in 1997, the Johns Creek Business Association is a nonprofit organization of businesses in and around the city of Johns Creek. It assists businesses, new and established, to connect to the local economy.

Its signature event is the monthly networking meeting the third Tuesday of each month.

For information and meeting location go to johnscreekba.com. made large strides in that regard. Students who do not speak English as their primary language have a graduation rate up 17 percent in recent years, bringing it up to nearly half of the student population.

A larger portion of the school system’s population is taking the SAT test. About 85 percent of the county’s seniors take the test.

Nationally, only 45 percent of seniors take it.

“We have one of the highest participatory rates in Georgia,” Avossa said.

More kids are taking AP courses and dual enrollment, both of which give college credit while still in high school.

Digital, or virtual, learning is also seeing success, he said.

When asked about the controversial Common Core educational standards, Avossa said the important thing is to stop changing the education requirements every few years.

“Our teachers are exhausted,” he said. “We need to ask politicians to stay away for a while” and see what works.

In part because of the constant changing of requirements, he said Fulton has lost a large number of teachers.

community

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 31 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Forsyth battles winter weather

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — While many were preparing to go back to work and school after Presidents Day, residents in Forsyth County and surrounding areas had to prepare for an oncoming of winter weather instead.

The storm started Monday, Feb. 16, said Robin Regan, public information officer for the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office.

The weather forecast continued to change and by Monday night, many were without power and trees were taken down throughout the county.

Regan said there were more than 345 road obstructions – many being trees in the roadway – and over 90 wire down calls, in addition to the tree only calls. Six of those fallen trees resulted in tree fires, usually the result of trees falling on wires.

The Forsyth County Fire Department responded to calls of transformers catching fire throughout the county and got them under control.

There were 14 motor vehicle crashes with eight resulting in an injury and one with someone being trapped.

Three residences had moderate to significant storm damage, Regan said.

The sheriff’s communications office received around 600 duplicate calls Monday night, but that doesn’t include all other calls including alarms and non-storm related calls, Regan said. There were a total of 1,206 calls received.

Public safety officers weren’t immune to the bad weather, either. At least two patrol cars were hit by falling limbs, but no one was injured.

Sheriff Duane Piper said his deputies did an outstanding job keeping the community safe and at the same time making sure to keep roads

Storm stats • 400 road obstructions (trees in the roadway) • 100 wire down calls (in addition to the tree only calls) • 14 motor vehicle crashes (8 injury, including 1 entrapped) • 6 tree fires • 3 residences with storm damage • 1,206 total calls received by communications officers • 814 dispatched calls from the communications center; sheriff’s office responded to 695 • 600 duplicate calls received by communications officers, not counting calls including alarms and non-storm related calls clear of trees and downed wires.

“Under those weather conditions, it was extraordinary team work and communication that provided the foundation for a smooth event,” Piper said. “The county 911 center and our employees in the emergency operations center coordinated all activities with professionalism and precision to clear up as many road hazards as possible.”

Coordination with utility companies and their citizens was second to none, Piper said.

“I heard many examples today of citizens teaming up to work with our deputies to chainsaw, tow, push and pull trees and branches off of roadways across the county,” he said. “All of this was done without complaints and with the intent to insure normalcy for our citizens as soon as possible.”

School was out already Feb. 16 for Presidents’ Day, but it was called off Feb. 17 through

Fallen trees and icy conditions blocked most of Hubert Martin Road.

19 due to the dangerous winter weather.

“Feb. 18 was not an online/ itslearning day because we have two inclement weather days built into the 2014-15 school calendar, March 16 and April 3,” said Jennifer Caracciolo, director of public information and communications for Forsyth County Schools. “Feb. 19 was an online/itslearning day. We understand that many families are without power, so please note that students have five days after they return to school complete their work.”

More information on the online learning for school closings plan is located at www. forsyth.k12.ga.us/onlineplan, Caracciolo said.

Many residents went without power during the storm and the days following, with over 35,000 without power at the height of the storm, according to Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation.

FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

CLAUDIA HERBERT

A house in Silver City narrowly missed total destruction by a tree.

SANDRA SIMMONS

DAVID BROWN/Staff

A fallen tree blocked Post Road near Vickery Creek Middle School Feb. 17.

Ice covered birdhouses, trees and took down power lines all over Forsyth County.

FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

A tree fell on a car on Wanda Woods Road off Buford Dam Road Feb. 17.

community

32 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

Lanier Tech Foundation 5K to be held Feb. 28 OAKWOOD, Ga. — The second annual Lanier Tech Foundation 5K presented by King’s Hawaiian will be held at the college’s Oakwood campus Feb. 28, beginning with a 1 mile fun run at 9:30 a.m. and the 5K following at 10 a.m.

Registration for the event is currently going on at www.active.com, or through the college website at www.laniertech.edu. The race is part of the 2015 Black Bag Race Series. Packet pickup and race day registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. All proceeds from this race will go toward the Lanier Technical College Foundation General Scholarship Fund.

Registration for the race is $25 and includes a goody bag and race T-shirt. Runners may also register by bringing cash or a check made out to Lanier Tech Foundation to the Lanier Tech Foundation Office, 2990 Landrum Education Parkway, Building 100, Room 101F. Sponsors for the race include the Atlanta

Register at www.active. com, or through the college website at www.laniertech. edu.

Falcons, Chico’s FAS, Hair Depot, K&S Tool and Equipment, Northeast Georgia Health System, SKF and Sam’s Club.

Awards will be given to the overall male/female, masters male/female and two deep in age groups from with 10 and under through 75 and over. Finish line management and results will be provided by Classic Race Services, with results posted to www.classicraceservices.com, www.active.com, www.runningintheusa.com and www. coolrunning.com.

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community

Forsyth Herald | February 25, 2015 | 33 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Lambert invited to national baseball tournament FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The Lambert High School baseball team has been invited to attend USA Baseball’s National High School Invitational from March 25 to 28 in Cary, North Carolina. The Longhorns will be one of 16 teams to compete at the single-elimination tournament.

This spring, Lambert baseball will be looking to repeat their success from last season in which the team went 36-2 overall and 14-0 in region 6-AAAAAA play.

The Longhorns will enter this season ranked as the top team in the nation, according to MaxPreps preseason

poll.

Drew Ferrer has taken over the head coach position after Jamie Corr left the team to coach at the collegiate level in Florida.

– Joe Parker

Northside Hospital announces 2015 smoking cessation classes FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Northside Hospital will hold several smoking cessation programs in 2015 at its NorthsideForsyth and Atlanta campuses, beginning next month.

Smoking is the No. 1 cause of preventable death in the U.S., and the American Cancer Society says no cigarette is without risk. Smoking even as little as five days out of the month can lead to more shortness of breath and coughing.

Smoking just one to four cigarettes a day can increase the risk of dying from heart disease and all causes, like cancer.

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 then went to talk with the couple. The woman reportedly said her husband had been drinking and that they were cleaning up when he slipped and hit his head on the kitchen counter. The wife said she wanted to take her husband to the hospital but that he didn’t think it was necessary.

She reported she was going to get the car ready when her husband followed her outside, put his arms around her and told her there was no reason to go the hospital. When they noticed they were being taped, the couple said they went back into their apartment.

The officer reported he did not notice anything unhealthy or unsafe for the children or any other tenants, and the couple was in good spirits.

Both their infant daughter and 5-year-old son were asleep. No marks or injuries, other than the bump on the husband’s head, were apparent. Both were laughing during the investigation and said they were embarrassed. They said they would make sure to keep the noise down.

Customer angry over coffee CUMMING, Ga. — A manager of Krystal, 560 Atlanta Road, called the Cumming Police Department Feb. 7 after a customer was arguing with her and demanding the district

Quitting smoking is one of the best things someone can do for their health, but it’s not always easy. Support groups and group classes can provide encouragement and accountability throughout the journey.

Northside Hospital’s smoking cessation program offers participants tips on how to quit, manage stress, avoid weight gain, cope with withdrawal symptoms and much more. The seven-week sessions

use a combination of group discussion and interaction, with nicotine replacement therapy, to provide the support needed to quit smoking.

All classes are facilitated by trained Northside Hospital

staff.

Afternoon and evening classes are available in Atlanta and Forsyth County. Upcoming 2015 sessions begin: • March 10 • May 5 • June 30 • Aug. 25 • Oct. 20 Additional resources including online support services and referrals to telephone counseling also are available.

For more information or to register for a session, contact 404-780-7653 or smokingcessation@northside.com.

manager’s phone number.

The manager told the officer the customer came in the previous week as the store was opening and ordered coffee. She said she gave him a discount on the coffee since he was the first customer, but that he reportedly became irate and didn’t want a discount.

She said the man paid the 50 cents he was charged and then returned yelling and demanding a refund because the coffee was cold. She said she offered to give him the coffee for free and he left. The man returned to the restaurant Feb. 7 and reportedly began yelling at all the employees before leaving again.

Officers found the man walking toward Ga. 400 and told him not to go back to the Krystal or he would be arrested for criminal trespass. The man said he understood, but became agitated that the manager could charge him with criminal trespass when he was just an unsatisfied customer.

He left the scene without any further incident.

The officers reportedly found the 18-year-old in the parking lot leaning against his mother’s car. They searched a bag the man had and reportedly found drug-related objects and marijuana.

After handcuffing the man, deputies said the mother

handed them two credit cards she found in her car.

When asked about the cards, the man allegedly admitted he took them off a desk at a local business. Video was obtained of the man trying to use the cards at a gas station, but the cards were declined.

He was charged with burglary second degree non-force non-residence, financial fraud, possession and use of drugrelated objects, possession of marijuana under one 1 ounce, disrupting a public school and possession of a schedule II controlled substance.

Upcoming 2015 sessions begin: • March 10 • May 5 • June 30 • Aug. 25 • Oct. 20

Son threatens mom at school FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On Feb. 6, Forsyth County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call at Forsyth Central High School about a teacher feeling threatened.

The teacher told the deputies her son was upset because she wouldn’t give him the car keys and said he would be coming to the school to take them.

DEATH NOTICES John Braun, 80, of Milton, passed away February 17, 2015.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Wanda Buffington, 92, of Cumming, passed away February 11, 2015.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Fay B. Gazaway, 85, of Gainesville, passed away February 14, 2015.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Ismael Zamora Peralta, 59, of Cumming, passed away February 17, 2015.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Robert Hillegas, 67, of Roswell, passed away February 13, 2015.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Jessie Clyde Swanson, 85, of Cumming, passed away February 11, 2015.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Erna Patricia Clendinning, 87, of Cumming, passed away February 12, 2015.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Susan Elaine Maciolek, 73 of Cumming, passed away February 10, 2015.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Conrad Lee Culver, 86, of Cumming, passed away February 16, 2015.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Joe Martin, 69, of Cumming, passed away February 12, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Donna Fish, 67, of Cumming, passed away February 15, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

John Emory Franklin, Jr., 73, of Cumming, passed away February 15, 2015.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Beverly Joan Link Moore, 77, of Buford, passed away February 13, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Ruth Turk, 82, of Roswell, passed away February 17, 2015.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Angela Varner, 29, of Roswell, passed away February 17, 2015.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Henry Yatsko, 92, of Cumming, passed away February 16, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

JOB OPPORTUNITY Equipment Operator I The CITY OF SUWANEE is accepting applications for Full-Time EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I. This is semi-skilled work in the operation of moderately complex construction and maintenance of streets, utilities and the City’s grounds and buildings. H.S. diploma or GED equivalent, valid GA Driver’s License and 2 yrs. exp. in maintenance & construction required. CDL and water operator license required within one year.

Compensation: $14.64 w/full benefits. To apply go to www.suwanee.com.

Submit application and resume to: City of Suwanee Human Resources, 330 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee, GA 30024

Position Open until filled. Only applicants selected for interview will be contacted.

Drug Free Workplace ~ EOE

Advantage Painting

HANDYMAN REMODELING

ALL REPAIRS & REMODELS

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

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

$100 OFF PARKING LOT RESURFACE Striping Resurface Quality Work at Discount Price!

$100 OFF - mention this ad

678-506-0008

WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI-- Z1-900(1972-75), KZ900, KZ1000(1976-1982), Z1R, KZ1000MK2(1979,80), W1-650, H1-500(1969-72), H2-750(1972-1975), S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, KH250, KH400, SUZUKI--GS400, GT380, HONDA--CB750K(1969-1976), CBX1000(1979,80)

$$ CASH $$

1-800-772-1142 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.com

36 | February 25, 2015 | Forsyth Herald | forsythherald.com

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

Cherry Street Taproom NOW OPEN! 25 Cherry Street Taps • Craft Cocktails • Tapas Located next to the Brewery to the right of Tanner’s

Check h k out our website b ffor events

CherryStreetBrewing.com

• 2014 King of the Cask Grayson Blues & Brews Fest • 2014 2nd Place Barrel Aged Strong Ale US Beer Open • 2013 Best of Show at Grayson Beer Fest

Just Tapped, New Barrel Aged Beers!

Chardonnay Barrel Tripel, Red Wine Barrel Belgian IPA, and the recent ACAT People’s Choice Winner: OASIS

Great Rotating Draft Beer Selection

Find Cherry Street at all the local growler shops!

St. Patty’s Party

Sat., Mar. 14 Noon - Midnight Live Music, Special Beers, Irish Food.

www.cherrystreetbrewing.com • Current Hours: Wed – Sat 4pm – Midnight

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Serving Breakfast

Mon-Fri 7am-11am • Sat & Sun 8am-11am m Biscuits, Omelettes, French Toast, Egg Platters & Bowls, Steak & Eggs, Kids’ breakfast Menu

Breakfast • Lunch Dinner • To-Go • Catering

Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers • Wings e!

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

Last Tuesday Beer Bash Tuesday February 24th, 5pm - 10pm Local Charity Sponsor, Live Music, Special Beer Release Current Charity: Georgia Craft Brewer’s Guild Current Beer: Dunkel Weisse A collaboration with Hop Alley Brewpub Fundraising Event to Fight for Better Beer Laws.

Mon. Family Night, KIDS EAT FREE & BINGO at 6pm Wed. Team TRIVIA at 8pm Thurs. CHERRY STREET BEER SPECIALS OPEN MIC at 7:30pm Tanner’s Fri.RickPrime Rib & Steak Specials 770-205-5512 Sat. Prime Rib & Steak Specials Brewery Tours from 2-4pm Sun. Brunch 11am-2pm & Live Music Limit 1 per group. Must present this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 4-25-14.

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

770-205-5512

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