Forsyth Herald – December 8, 2016

D e c e m b e r 8 , 2 0 1 6 | Fo r s y t h H e r a l d . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 1 9 , N o . 4 9

Northside lights up Forsyth Northside Hospital’s annual Christmas tree lighting celebration Dec. 2 featured dancers, games, snow and of course a massive tree. Each light on the tree represents someone whose life has been affected by cancer.

Pictured: The Sawnee Ballet performers dance to Christmas music. Read more, Page 36.

Change tastes good

Commission changes alcohol ordinance for wine, beer tastings ►►page 4

Courthouse issues continue

Still came in under budget ►►Page 6

Meet Barb Luth

Supervisor of county elections ►►Page 13

Northside buys 4.9 acres Next door to Wellstar ►►Page 17

Health & Wellness Kathleen Sturgeon/Herald

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2 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

770-442-3278 | ForsythHerald.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS:

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4-vehicle crash stalls rush hour FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A multi-vehicle accident Nov. 30 shut down north-

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Motorcycle crash shuts down Ga. 400

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Public Safety

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.

Family fight causes seizure on Thanksgiving FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A group of family members got into a scuffle Nov. 24 that resulted in one person having a seizure.

Initially, deputies were dispatched due to the seizure, but while in route, the deputy was informed that a neighbor called about a six-person fight in the front yard. Upon the deputy’s arrival, the fight had already broken up, however the participants were still yelling.

One of the family members explained he was having a Thanksgiving family gathering and one of the men wasn’t allowed inside the home. But when the rest of the family was preparing for dinner, the man not invited started yelling outside. Some of the family went out to see what the issue was, causing a fight to break out. The man was trying to punch another man back but instead missed and hit a female who then had a seizure.

It is believed the uninvited man was drunk and was supposed to stay in the car while children were brought inside. A family member offered to drive the man and the children back home to defuse

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bound Ga. 400 for more than an hour.

Four vehicles were involved, including a motorcycle and tractor-trailer. The accident was reportedly caused when a tire retread got stuck on one of the vehicles. The motorcyclist was injured and taken to North Fulton Hospital.

Details and the condition of that driver are not yet released. the situation. No arrests were made due to probable cause and conflicting stories.

House struck by hit and run driver FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A man called the sheriff’s office Nov. 26 after a hit and run occurred on his house.

He said he woke up the night before to a loud sound, but he thought he was dreaming. The next morning he realized a car had hit his house. The front porch had been struck by a vehicle, damaging the structural posts and pushing the framework of the structure into the basement of the house, according to a police report.

It appeared the car entered the front yard from the road and careened into the porch at a high speed.

The vehicle appeared to have been damaged and its passenger-side mirror was left at the scene along with paint transfer. Serial numbers were found for the car, which deputies deemed a metallic gray 2007 to 2011 Honda CR-V with front end damage and missing the passenger mirror.

Thieves steal lottery ticket case FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A group of thieves apparently stole a lottery ticket

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The crash happened about 6:30 a.m. with investigators shutting down all lanes of Ga. 400 northbound near Exit 12 McFarland Parkway until 8 a.m.

No charges are pending, and alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be a factor according to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The crash is still under investigation.

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 ►► Jasmine Marie Warren, 24, of

Surrey Park Trail, Johns Creek, was arrested Nov. 25 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Thomas Harlan Brooks, 48, of Medley Way, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 22 on Old Atlanta Road in Cumming for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Tewodros Addisu Brhan, 26, of Trillium Wood Trail, Snellville, was arrested Nov. 24 on Atlanta Highway in Cumming for DUI, possession of marijuana, improper turn and possession of a schedule II controlled substance. ►► John Ira Bishop, 38, of Mountainside Drive, Dawsonville, was arrested Nov. 17 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI, speeding and failure to maintain lane. ►► Clayton Melton Jr., 56, of Churchill Downs, Cumming, was arrested Nov. 22 on Buford Highway in Cumming for DUI and failure to report striking a fixed object.

See ARRESTS, Page 33

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 3

What is Blended Vision?

By Niraj Desai, M.D.

Niraj Desai, M.D.

Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Undoubtedly, many folks in their 40’s who were previously unburdened by funny contraptions fashioned from glass and steel (aka glasses!) have painfully realized the limitations of the human visual system with ageing. Their ability to see near, far and everything in between begins to betray them and they awake one day wishing that their arms could grow just a few inches longer or, perhaps, that they could have a selfie stick fashioned as a book holder permanently attached to their arms (or perhaps, not). Funny or not, it is a real issue that affects patients as they turn the midlife corner.

The human visual system as an inherent ability to focus on near objects by a mechanism called ‘accommodation’. This begins to slow down in our 40’s and comes to a screeching halt around 60 years of age. For centuries then, your good eye doctor has been available to prescribe magnifying glasses so you may finish at long last , sew those newborn blankets and beat those crossword puzzles! That is all fine and well, but can you improve upon this concept of magnifying glasses when it is time for cataract surgery?

Happy Holidays from the Milan Eye Center team.

Yes, is the short answer. Though, beyond the scope of this article, there are a variety of options to help with the goal of unaided near or intermediate vision such as multifocal IOLs, monovision and blended vision. Let us focus on blended vision here.

When a cataract is removed, whether you are far-sighted, near sighted or just a perfect specimen of optical humanity, ie no need for distance glasses, you lose your ability to focus within a 2-3 foot range. This can be addressed, however, with some planning and thought. One of the well received and well tolerated options for patients opting for insurance covered single vision implants at the time of cataract surgery is blended vision. Instead of defaulting both eyes for distance and, thereby, sacrificing all near and mid range focusing ability, the non-dominant eye is purposefully targeted to mid range vision. This allows a significant increase in functional vision during day to day tasks such as cooking, grocery shopping, playing sports, seeing the instrument panel when driving, working at the computer etc. Glasses are still sometimes necessary for reading fine print, but tablets such as the iPad with font expansion at your fingertips have done away with even this exception for many patients. Even patients with significant astigmatism can benefit from blended vision if they have toric IOLs implanted.

By focusing the dominant eye, which some patients know as their ‘shooting eye’ or ‘aiming eye’, at distance, you cover the brain’s desire to have the dominant eye focus well at distance. The non-dominant eye then, is focused at a mid range target generally ~ 3 feet away or as desired by the patient. Alone, this eye then will not have the same sharpness as the dominant eye will at distance as it is focused on more near targets, but with both eyes open the vision is seamless from midrange and beyond. It imparts a tremendous ability to a visual system that is, otherwise, dependent on bifocals or progressives to function.

Blended vision is not for everyone, but has shown great success in a large group of patients. Some caveats to consider are the need for over the counter glasses to read small print, possible haloes at night when driving and time needed to adapt to this new vision for some patients.

In summary, cataract surgery has advanced in many ways and through careful planning and consultation, the patient may attain lifelong benefits by procedures such as blended vision.

Milan R. Patel, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

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4 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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Impacts wine and growler tastings, breweries

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Partaking in wine or growler tastings in Forsyth County recently became easier.

The Board of Commissioners Dec. 1 passed multiple changes to the county’s alcohol code, including the ability to do tastings at businesses that sell wine and growlers.

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the code had required that tastings should take place in another location at both wine shops and package stores that sell growlers.

“We have defined (another location) as a separate structure that is located on the premises that is sealed or somehow separated by the main area,” Jarrard said. “We have done that based upon my interpretation of Georgia law which I believe says there is no breaking of packages in a package store or a store that sells alcohol for consumption off the premises.”

However the industries, specifically the wine industry, have “tried to comply but don’t think they should be required

We are not talking about package liquor.

If you have that, you cannot have tastings of wine or growlers or anything. The state is very clear on that.”

Ken Jarrard County Attorney to, because those in the growler industry may not be doing this,” Jarrard said.

This latest modification to the code removes the requirement that tastings have to be in a separate location, as well as other restrictions, such as the number of tastings.

“Basically this allows both establishments that sell wine and growlers to have tastings any day of the week in their store,” Jarrard said. “We are not talking about package liquor. If you

have that, you cannot have tastings of wine or growlers or anything. The state is very clear on that.”

Jarrard said he talked with the state, and although he stands by his interpretation, he has been “beaten down by the flurry of progress.” But he said it’s clear to him that the attorney general’s office would agree with the new ordinance.

A second modification to the alcohol ordinance relates to new definitions for breweries, distilleries and micro-breweries.

Breweries are defined at a premise where beer and malt beverages are manufactured. Distillery means a premises where distilled spirits are manufactured.

And the new portion defines micro-breweries as a brewery that manufactures a maximum of 20,000 barrels of beer and malt beverage each year for sale to licensed wholesaler dealers, excluding brewpubs.

“This was a result of an economic development initiative which was brought to the county by the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce,” Jarrard said. “They were asking for flexibility in regard to location of micro-breweries.”

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The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners congratulates Parks and Recreation staff members Dec. 1 for receipt of the Agency of the Year Award.

Forsyth Parks and Rec named agency of the year FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Parks and Recreation was

recently named the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s District 7

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Agency of the Year.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recognized this accomplishment at their meeting Dec. 1, presenting the Agency of the Year Award to members of the Parks and Recreation staff.

The award recognizes the outstanding efforts of staff development, budgeting and resources, facilities offered, use of technology, programs and major accomplishments.

District 7 comprises Forsyth County and 39 neighboring recreation and park agencies.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 5

NEWS

6 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Issues at Forsyth Courthouse remain Project still finished under budget

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Although officially opened March 2015, the Forsyth County Courthouse project isn’t complete just yet.

The Jail/Courthouse Project team met Nov. 29 to go over a few outstanding issues.

Project manager Joe Lee said those issues include the elevators not working properly and the jail floor stain not sticking, both being warranty items.

Lee said a meeting will be held regarding the elevator problems.

The warrant on the courthouse goes through January 2017 and the jail through June 2017, but Lee said he is working on getting it extended for two years.

Additionally, Judge Jeffrey Bagley said there have been issues with nonsound proof attorney-client rooms, causing confidentiality concerns.

“We started getting complaints from attorneys or their staff who could hear

By the numbers • 7 courtrooms expandable to 10 • 608 beds in the jail • 713 deck parking spaces • 633,427 total square feet between the courthouse, jail and parking decks everything being said in the client-attorney rooms,” he said. “That is an absolute violation of the attorney-client privilege. An attorney’s conversation is sacrosanct. No one should be able to hear the discussion an attorney is having with their client. But here you have everything being heard in the public hallway.”

Bagley said the contractor didn’t install sound-rated doors to cut costs.

But Lee said the doors were tested after being installed and the difference was two decibels, which a person can’t hear.

The concerns are now being addressed by adding white noise throughout the building where necessary.

These are not the first issues this project has seen. Lee said they had to work around rock that caused delays and took a big chunk of the project budget, as well as poor weather.

“We’ve had the biggest drought we’ve ever had and the 100-year rain in the same four-year period,” Lee said. “We’ve braved all kinds of natural elements.

The project has had its obstacles but we were able to get through it all.”

Even with the problems, Lee said if the same building were built today, it would cost the county roughly $10 to $15 million more than its $100 million price tag.

“The county decided to expedite the project and take advantage of the bottom of the recession,” Lee said. “There was also the wise decision of sharing the space in the courthouse. Now not only do you have a good building, it’ll last a long time.”

And on top of that, the project came in at $519,225 under budget, about half a percent of the project total.

“We were close, but we did come in under budget,” Lee said.

A detailed walk-through will take place later this month to address any outstanding concerns.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

The Forsyth County Courthouse opened March 2015, but the project isn’t complete.

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8 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

OPINION

The problem with history

The death of conventional wisdom It’s been a banner year for the irrational.

Let’s start with a few examples: LeBron James left Miami for his hometown of Cleveland and led the NBA team to a title James carr despite being down Guest Columnist news@appenmediagroup.com 3-1 in the finals to Golden State, who set the record for the most wins in a season. The win ended Cleveland’s 52-year championship drought in all sports, which spanned 147 seasons.

Bernie Sanders, a 75-year old Jewish man who self-identifies as a democratic socialist, became the first non-Christian to win a primary in the United States as he smashed records for individual donors, largely by connecting with people about one-third his age.

SnapChat, a social media app that lets people easily talk with friends, view Live Stories from around the world, and explore news, is valued at over $20 billion.

Britain voted to leave the European Union despite “leave” never leading in the polls, causing the prime minister to resign immediately. It was quickly followed by the leader of the “leave” movement’s resignation, who is now looking to move to the United States.

Chance The Rapper, one of the most popular young artists in the world who has made millions despite giving all of his music away for free, got the Grammys to rewrite their rules to remove a clause stating music must be sold to be eligible for an award.

The Chicago Cubs broke a 108year championship curse by winning a World Series in the bottom of the 10th inning following a rain delay in what was heralded as one of the greatest

playoff games ever.

Donald Trump, a businessman and reality TV star without political experience who refused to release his tax returns, beat 16 Republicans and one of the most powerful Democrats in history to become President of the United States.

Marijuana is recreationally legal for one in five Americans, a tax on sugary drinks was instituted in five cities, and minimum wage increased in 15 states.

The economy grew without increasing the amount of carbon we put into the environment for the first time since the dawn of the Industrial Age. If you’d made any of those predictions five years ago, you’d have been laughed at harder than Democratic Congressman Keith Ellison was on CNN when he predicted a Trump presidency during the primaries (the video speaks volumes about our country and state of cable news).

We are living in a new era -- perhaps marked by the passing of so many legendary figures, from Prince to Florence Henderson. The rash of new policies, political leaders, cultural staples and, yes, sports champions, signals a radical shift in direction and perspective.

That makes conventional wisdom lethal because there isn’t any convention.

Just take a look back at 2016.

The point is, there has never been a better time during our lives to accomplish your dreams by doubling down on what you believe in and refusing to cave under the weight of somebody else’s rationale.

In a new era, the rules have yet to be defined. Define them.

Heading into 2017, you might feel like you’re in a drought, down 3-1 in the playoffs, or that all the odds are against you.

It’s the perfect time to take your shot.

The problem with history is that it is so hard to see while it is happening. It is difficult to recognize the nuances or even the macro paradigm shifts as they are occurring.

Ray appen Usually it’s Publisher ray@appenmediagroup.com “too late” once we actually see the change. A great current example is the complete misfire by the Democratic Party in this election in missing the groundswell upheaval and the disenfranchisement from existing social and political norms in Middle America and in other segments of our country. It wasn’t that they misread the situation; they didn’t even see a situation to misread. Now, looking back at recent history, everyone is an expert on what the party did wrong and how to repair the damage.

Another example of failing to recognize history in the making — a historical one — would be the rise of National Socialism in Germany prior to World War II and its progeny — the fascism that would spread throughout Europe like a plague until Germany’s defeat.

The abrupt collapse of the Soviet Union without a shot being fired in 1991 is another example of history no one saw until it actually happened.

I am not sure which reality is worse — the cliche that “those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it” or simply the failure to recognize “the big picture” macro trends in advance — when there is no history extant to teach us.

Today it doesn’t take much of an intellect to recognize that we are in a period of great political upheaval — both world-wide and domestically. The assent of liberal democratic governments built upon foundations of rule of law, open societies, individual rights and functioning constitutions seems to have crested. Now parts of the world seem to be cycling in the direction of conservative authoritarian or military regimes characterized by diminishing individual rights, failing constitutions, nationalistic ideologies, usually the complete subjugation of independent news media and rule of force. Turkey, Russia, Iran, and Egypt come to mind.

Turkey, until about 10 years ago, was a beacon of light for democracy.

Now it is the poster child of “democracies in trouble.” In 2013 a failed military coup to overthrow the demo-

Turkey, until about 10 years ago, was a beacon of light for democracy. Now it is the poster child of “democracies in trouble.” cratically elected government resulted in the jailing of thousands of members of the military, the judiciary, teachers, police forces and news media employees by Prime Minister — now “President” — Recep Erdogan. Turkey currently ranks as the No. 1 country in the world in terms of incarcerated journalists. Additionally, social media outlets including Facebook and Twitter and apps including WhatsApp are either blocked or are under heavy government censure.

Of note, during the upheaval Erdogan’s ruling party — the AKP — exerted pressure on companies that wanted to do business with the government to purchase media properties that could be counted on to faithfully report news the government wanted disseminated.

The status of the news media postcoup is dismal.

According to Turkish journalist Erol Oneeroglu, “There is no more critical journalism, 90 percent of the free press is destroyed directly or indirectly. Investigative journalism is considered treason. Journalism has been stolen by the government.”

So history moves in cycles and the current cycle is not a good one.

The good news however, is that as long as the fundamental institutions of democracies remain intact — those that facilitate and maintain effective “rule of law” — the courts, the constitutions, the elections apparatus — then the political cycles will occur and fundamental rights and core viability of the democracy will survive.

As long as there is a free and independent press, one that is trusted by the public, democracies can survive. As long as the public’s trust and confidence in the veracity and credibility of its democratic institutions remains intact, democracy will survive political cycles.

History says democracies will make it thru this period intact. Time will tell.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 9

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10 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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In June 2015, Ray Appen editorialized Trump wasn’t a serious candidate.

I disagreed. Appen’s Nov. 17 editorial bemoans Hillary’s loss. I come to bring comfort.

Lawyers argue facts and law, if possible. Otherwise, they use personal attack. Hillary’s campaign “was” indirection, propaganda, slander and lies.

WikiLeaks documented Hillary’s sense of entitlement, contempt, serial lying, and greedy, power hungry corruption.

Hillary deliberately: (1) violated multiple national security felonies with her server/actions, (2) destroyed government records, and (3) refused to comply with FOI and Congressional subpoenas. Then she’s “given” the Democratic Presidential nomination. Accountability or corruption?

Hillary’s “allegations” about Trump date back to when Trump was a (“progressive?”) Democrat - in the entertainment industry. Both groups are “warped.”

Progressives’ mantra is tax, spend (more), and regulate (rule) - using division, social justice (socialism) and political correctness (limiting free speech).

Trump now believes in truth, justice, and “America.”

As Christians, we should seek out, worship, and serve God. Be God’s hands and feet. Not God (or his angels) serve us.

The Solution: Going forward, common ground must be based on principled truth (fact, beliefs and values).

The dishonorable (public “servants”?) should not be honored, respected, or followed - but, held accountable.

... Going forward, common ground must be based on principled truth (fact, beliefs and values).

The dishonorable (public “servants”?) should not be honored, respected, or followed - but, held accountable.

Solomon describes the Inexperienced, Fool (ego driven), Corrupt (evil, power hungry), and Wise. All should seek and honor truth. The Wise do.

Absent that, one should suffer the certain consequences for rejecting truth. Otherwise, what purpose the law?

No growth possible?

The Inexperienced should be taught. The Fool reminded. The Corrupt shunned. The Wise honored and followed.

Christ instructed us to kick even the town’s dirt, off our sandals, of those who reject his message (the Truth).

Only in truth can there be common ground.

Seek the truth in fact, reason, and prayer. It sets you free and gives you peace.

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12 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

The Place of Forsyth holds annual Holiday House Organization seeks gift donations for underprivileged children

By ZOYA ANSARI news@appenmediagroup.com

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 10 9 to 11 a.m.

Bring your children and grandchildren (and everyone who believes) for this fun event!

Waffle bar Photos with Santa Register to win a $25 gift card

Parade of Homes

Tuesday, December 13 Wine & cheese Meet our team

2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Tour our furnished models

Gift Wrapping

Saturday, December 17 1 to 4 p.m.

Bring your gifts to Towne Club Windermere and we’ll wrap them for you!

RSVP for any or all these events at (770) 844-7779 by December 9.

Toys for Tots 3950 Towne Club Pkwy.

Cumming, GA 30041

TowneClubWindermere.com

At each of these special events, you may drop off your unwrapped Toys for Tots donation and help make the holidays special for those in need. For each toy donated, your name will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – It’s that time of the year again, and everyone is encouraged to make this year’s holidays extra special by contributing to the Holiday House, The Place of Forsyth’s annual event.

Now in its second year, The Place gathers items to donate to parents of underprivileged families to give to their children. To be eligible for the program, parents present current Medicaid and Food Stamp letters or pay stubs and a proof of income.

“Most people don’t really see poverty in Forsyth County, but it’s everywhere.

They just don’t know it,” said Joni Smith, executive director of The Place of Forsyth.

Toy donations are only a part of the drive. Smith said the event can require up to 400 volunteers to decorate the venue, sort toys, help parents and entertain children while their parents select toys for them. The Place is also seeking contributors to donate Christmas wreaths, lights, decorations and gift wrap for the parents to take to their homes.

“Christmas is already expensive as it is, let alone for families that are hardly getting by. They know that they have to get these extra gifts or put up these decorations, and what’s heart-

breaking is that they just don’t have the money and don’t want their children to not have anything,” Smith said.

From 3-5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 9, The Place is hosting an open house for contributors to see how everything will be set up for the needy families. The location is at Freedom Tabernacle Church on 2160 Freedom Parkway. Donations for snacks and decorations for this event are welcome. To RSVP to the Open House, contact joni@theplaceofforsyth.org.

At 9 a.m., Dec. 12, parents begin shopping for their children and continue throughout the entire week. Last year, 1,800 kids were treated with gifts.

Smith said she hopes this season, they can surpass that number, with a new goal of 1,900.

It’s not just the children and parents that are affected by the Holiday House.

“Everybody has fun. It’s a week of pure joy. Last year, volunteers were in tears. They see this family’s excitement and realize their struggle at this time of year, and it just overwhelms them,” Smith said.

The main goal for The Place is to serve the community and make a difference in individuals’ lives, and the Holiday House does just that.

“Only a parent can know exactly what their child wants. This way, the holiday season is just as exciting for them as it should be,” Smith said.

Signups for volunteering for the weeklong event as well as donations of all kinds, including monetary, can be found on The Place of Forsyth’s website, theplaceofforsyth.org.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 13

KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

Barb Luth is the supervisor of voter registrations and elections for Forsyth County.

Government go-getters: Meet Barb Luth Supervisor of Voter Registrations and Elections

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Barb Luth is considering writing a book.

And as supervisor of voter registrations and elections for Forsyth County since 2009, she has her fair share of stories.

Her interesting moments include a voter in a bird mask, being part of the hanging chad fiasco a few years back and witnessing a woman from a nursing home making it to the polls to vote for a female presidential candidate.

She somewhat stumbled into the elections scene when her neighbor asked her to help during a past election. She said she didn’t know what she was getting herself into, but since then she’s been hooked.

“I love elections,” she said. “We always say the elections department is fun. But it’s interesting and you have to keep up with all the laws. There is never a dull moment.”

Sometimes it can be stressful right before a big election.

“You want to make sure everything is right and ready for the public,” Luth said. “We do a really good job here, and I have an excellent team. I couldn’t do it without them.”

Even during down times, there is always something to do.

“We are always registering people and getting ready for elections,” Luth said. “We are starting early for the city of Cumming election next year and the 2018 elections.”

The actual Election Day usually

The Forsyth Herald is running a monthly series on the people who make Forsyth County and the city of Cumming run. We will be featuring a different department head each month to really dig behind the scenes of the government to see how and why these people do what they do. isn’t too hectic for Luth. This year she spent most of her time answering phone calls.

“I always say Election Day is one of my calmest days,” she said. “We didn’t have a lot of problems or irate voters.

They were happy they had to wait 15 to 20 minutes.”

The most trying part of Election Day is making sure candidates aren’t campaigning close to polling places. She and her team remain nonpartisan to keep everything clear and straight.

Through the good and bad, she loves being able to help citizens.

“In this office we put a lot of information out to help them vote,” Luth said. “That’s gratifying that in this county we had an almost 83 percent turnout for November’s election. That’s incredible and more than most counties.”

Luth always encourages people to register, get out and vote.

“Start now,” she said. “Don’t wait until the next election.”

For information on voting in Forsyth County, visit http://bit.ly/1sO2moT.

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14 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 15

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

cummingforsythchamber.org Community Development

Chamber Hires New VP of Community Development Part of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber’s service to the community is to regularly take a serious look at the ever-changing economic and political landscape and how the Chamber can continue to lead positive and meaningful changes for the future. After interviewing key stakeholders and Tony Peters investors, the Chamber has created a new senior level position in the organization: the Vice President of Community Development.

The new position will complement the work of the Business Advancement Resource (BAR) by addressing the specific development needs of targeted areas throughout our community. This new position, working with community stakeholders and planning officials, will help build upon the strengths of the community to further develop an even greater sense of place and incubate events and activities that build community.

The Chamber is excited to announce that Tony Peters has joined the organization’s staff in this new role.

Tony, a Forsyth County resident, previously served as the Program and Business Development Manager for Liveable Buckhead – the Buckhead Community Improvement District.

“I am incredibly appreciative of this opportunity to join the Chamber of Commerce as the new Vice President of Community Development,” commented Tony. “As a twelve year resident within the county, my two children attending Haw Creek Elementary School and my wife, an associate professor of special education at UNG’s Cumming campus, I cannot think of anything more rewarding then contributing to the prosperity of this dynamic community thru partnership, advocacy, promotion and engagement.”

Initially, Tony will focus his attention on the work of the BAR and fostering the growth of the new South Forsyth Community Improvement District. Please join the Chamber staff in welcoming Tony to our organization.

Tourism

2016 Report People often wonder what the purpose of tourism is in Forsyth County.

The Tourism Department of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce began almost six years ago. Anna Barlow, Director of Tourism, focuses on marketing the community’s best qualities to create a positive economic impact on the area and help provide a balanced quality of life for the community.

Barlow travels to two national sports tradeshows each year: Connect Marketplace and the Sports Relationship Conference. The sports travel industry is the largest tourism market for Forsyth County. Barlow targets tournament organizers in a variety of sports in hopes that they will bring their events to Forsyth County.

These sporting events have a huge impact on the community. Participants and their families stay in local hotels, dine in local restaurants, shop in local stores and return each year because of the positive experience. The sales and hotel taxes generated by these visitors goes back into the community to promote economic development, bringing new businesses to the county and helping to close the existing tax digest gap.

In 2015, Forsyth County’s Tourism Industry generated more than 8,800 hotel room night bookings, beating their goal by 3,000. The 2015 estimated economic impact for hotel rooms alone was $1.67 million, with $1.60 coming from sports events.

The Chamber partnered with Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department to host the Play at the Park Fall Festival at Fowler Park. The 2016 festival had the largest ever attendance with more than 10,000 attendees. The Chamber was able to add food trucks, more vendors, hot air balloons, and live entertainment to this year’s Play at the Park.

In July 2016, Forsyth County hosted the Fishers of Men Championship on Lake Lanier. The Tourism Department also hosted the Triple Crown Softball tournament for the second year in a row. Both the Fishers of Men and the Triple Crown Softball tournament generated a combined estimated positive economic impact of $400,000.

Government

Hear from Your Legislators Keeping abreast of the political challenges and activities that affect the area and your business has never been more important! Network with many of the area’s top businesses and political leaders and expand your business contacts when you attend the 2016 Pre-Legislative Session Breakfast, presented by AT&T on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 a.m. at the Forsyth Conference Center (3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd. Cumming, GA 30041).

This event is jointly hosted by the Lanier-Forsyth Rotary Club and the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce. All attendees should register with the Chamber with the exception of Lanier-Forsyth Rotary Members. Admission is $15 for Chamber Members and $30 for Non-Members. Register at www.cumming-forsythchamber.org

Sen. Michael Williams

Sen. Wes Cantrell

Rep. Sheri Giligan

Rep. Geoff Duncan

Rep. Kevin Tanner

Representative-Elect Todd Jones

For more information on tourism or events in the area, please contact Anna Barlow at (770) 887-6461, Ext. 21 or via e-mail at abarlow@cummingofrsythchamber.org.

Anecdotally, business and economic conditions in the north-metro Atlanta region are doing well.

DAVID OLIVER, Georgia Bankers Association senior VP of communications and marketing

16 | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016

Financial sector has continued 2016 growth across Georgia Fulton County numbers show increased earnings

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA - Signs of recovery continue in the state’s financial sector. And the numbers in Fulton County reflect even higher growth.

Georgia’s 187 state-based FDIC insured banks earned $2.3 billion in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of 6 percent over the same period through September 2015.

Total deposits, loans and assets all increased from the same quarter in 2015.

“The performance of our banks is reflecting the continued positive traction for the state’s economy,” said Joe Brannen, president and CEO of the Georgia Bankers Association.

Statewide numbers from the FDIC show: Year-to-date net income through September was $2.3 billion, up 6 percent from the first nine months

Area apartment rent trends Here is the latest apartment data for area cities released Dec. 1 by Apartment List Rentonomics. While lending has gathered strength over the past two years, recent trends in apartment pricing have leveled off or declined. The latest report from Rentonomics shows apartment unit pricing has actually declined through much of North Fulton County.

City

Median 1BR

Median 2BR

Month over month change

year over year change

Alpharetta

$1,180

$1,380

-0.1%

-2.8%

Cumming

$1,010

$1,130

-3.6%

+4.5%

Johns Creek

$1,210

$1,420

-2%

-1.5%

Roswell

NA

$1,140

-2.1%

-3.9%

Source: Apartment List Rentonomics

of 2015.

93 percent of banks were profitable through September, up by 5 percentage points compared to the same period in 2015.

Total assets grew by 6.9 percent compared to third quarter 2015.

Total assets are at their highest level since 2008.

Total loans of $217.9 billion were up 5.9 percent compared to third quarter of 2015.

Total deposits of $248.5 billion were up 5.8 percent compared to third quarter 2015.

Credit quality remains good with the percentage of noncurrent loans below national average.

Capital levels across the industry are good.

Closer to home, the 13 Georgia-based banks in Fulton County reported loans up 7 percent year to date through the end of September. Deposits increased 8 percent, and net income of $1.5 billion held steady from last year.

Those are particularly good numbers since Fulton County lost two Georgia banks over the past year, said David Oliver, senior vice president of communications and marketing with the Georgia Bankers Association.

KeyWorth Bank in Johns Creek was acquired in April by Mississippi-based Renasant Bank and Community and Southern Bank was acquired by Bank of the Ozarks of Arkansas in a deal completed in June.

Those two banks still operate branches in the area under their new names and ownership, but they don’t report their results alongside the other Georgia banks.

“Anecdotally, business and economic conditions in the north-metro Atlanta region are doing well,” Oliver said. “We hear a persistent drumbeat about the general strength of the housing and business growth in that area.”

The data are a good indicator of economic growth at the business and family level, Oliver said.

“People are confident in borrowing money to fund either their family needs, whether it be home loans or automobiles or just personal loans,” he said. “Or they

Small business lending at record levels ATLANTA – Another financial benchmark for the local economy saw a surge in activity this year.

The Georgia District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its fiscal year 2016 lending numbers show record levels of small business lending. The agency guarantied 2,023 loans, totaling $1.39 billion.

This marks the third time in the past five-years that lending in Georgia reached or surpassed a billion dollars.

In comparison to fiscal year 2015, there were 224 more loans approved, and small businesses throughout the state received nearly $179 million in additional capital.

Businesses owned by minorities and women saw the greatest increase in lending activity.

Minority-owned businesses received 277 loans, totaling more than $106 million, in 2016.

This represents an 11 percent increase in the number of loans and a 19 percent increase in funding dollars compared to 2015.

Women-owned businesses received 397 loans, totaling more than $202 million, in 2016 versus. This represents a 9 percent increase in the number of loans and a ten percent increase in funding dollars compared to 2015.

“Small businesses are growing, jobs are being created and the economy is continuing to rebound,” said Terri Denison, director of SBA’s Georgia District Office. “We will continue our efforts to reach all segments of the small business community and drive entrepreneurial success.” may be investing in their businesses to continue to grow.”

Rates continue to be historically low, and banks all over the Atlanta Region are reporting competitive terms and pricing, Oliver said.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 17

Northside buys property near Wellstar 4.9 acres located along Alpharetta Highway

Getting better sales leads

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Northside Hospital will soon be expanding in North Fulton.

According to Lee Echols, vice president of marketing for Northside, the hospital recently purchased a 4.9 acre parcel fronting Alpharetta Highway at Hospital Boulevard.

“At this time, we have no firm usage or development plans for the property,” Echols said.

The piece of land is next door to WellStar North Fulton Hospital.

Northside has three main campuses in Atlanta, Forsyth County and Cherokee, with various outpatient facilities and rehabilitation locations throughout the area.

And the hospital doesn’t plan to slow down.

In October, the Forsyth campus went under major renovation and added three floors.

The system is also expanding to south of Sandy Springs. The Northside Midtown Medical office building at 1130 West Peachtree Street and 13th Street is in the works with a groundbreaking planned in the near future.

Northside’s Cherokee campus is getting a total makeover with a completely new building on 300 acres.

The building is expected to open in 2017 along with a medical office building.

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Northside Hospital’s new land sits next door to Wellstar North Fulton Hospital.

But Northside isn’t the only one who finds this area attractive.

In May 2015, Triad Properties Corporation, based in Huntsville, Ala., acquired a medical office development at the northeast corner of Old Mil-

ton Parkway and Ga. 400. The 11.65 acre site is adjacent to Northside’s Alpharetta Medical Campus. This will have medical offices and either an ambulatory care center or urgent care center.

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18 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

BUSINESSBRIEFS ignition Inc., and as marketing and sales coordinator at the Swan Coach House. She is a graduate of Kennesaw State University.

Emory Johns Creek improves patient transition care

Lauren English and Bill Norman of Norman’s Landing have donated $70, 967.25 to Hope Scholarship and Pre-K programs.

Norman’s landing raises money for scholarship and Pre-K FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Norman’s Landing restaurant raised $70, 967.25 this year for Georgia Hope and Pre-K programs. Norman’s Landing has raised over $394,000 in the last five years that helps Georgia’s students through the Georgia Lottery funding.

Norman’s Landing is located at 365 Peachtree Pkwy.

Rountree Group promotes Caroline Graham ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharettabased communications agency Rountree Group Integrated Communications has recently promoted Caroline Graham to account executive.

Graham’s new responsibilities include account supervision, social media strategy, extensive media graham outreach and communications plan development and implementation. Previously, Graham was an assistant account executive.

Prior to joining Rountree Group, Graham served as an intern with the WellStar Foundation and

SEND US YOUR NEWS

Email your news News@appenmediagroup.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Emory Johns Creek Hospital has partnered with Lily’s Pharmacy to enhance post-discharge medication management for patients.

Jennifer Shannon, owner of Lily’s Pharmacy, is now working with EJCH to provide pharmacy services to patients transitioning from the hospital to home. Patients can opt in the free service if they take more than five medications or have been hospitalized more than once in the last 30 days.

A group of clinically trained pharmacists who specialize in ambulatory medicine are on call 24-hours a day at Lily’s Pharmacy to answer questions. If a patient signs up for the program, pharmacists review the patient’s medical records, labs, medication lists, progress notes and discharge summary.

Shannon said that more than 130 pharmacy interventions have taken place and more than 30 major life-saving interventions have been made since the program started.

Lily’s Pharmacy also offers at home delivery and consultations for patients who live within a 10mile radius of the pharmacy. They use technology like FaceTime to provide additional counseling to patients if needed.

To learn more about the program and EJCH, visit emoryjohnscreek.com.

Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber wins award GULF SHORES, Ala.— SportsEvents Media Group recently announced that the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce was named as one of its 2017 Readers’ Choice Award winners.

Winners will be announced in the January 2017 issue of SportsEvents.

Sports event professionals were asked to nominate destinations and sports venues that they believe display exemplary creativity and professionalism toward the groups they host. Nominations were received from readers throughout the year, and the top picks were selected based on results from an

online voting system.

“It is clear, based on our readers’ experiences, that these award winners are willing to go above and beyond typical service levels to help sports event planners produce outstanding events that participants, their families and spectators will want to experience again and again,” said John Rezell, SportsEvents executive editor.

To learn more about the award and SportsEvents, visit sportseventsmagazine.com.

The Memory Center Atlanta announces construction JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Memory Center Atlanta, right next to Johns Creek City Hall and Emory Hospital Johns Creek, is currently under construction and scheduled to open by late spring 2017. Upon completion, it will be among the few stand-alone communities in Georgia dedicated exclusively to memory care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.

The community will be comprised of 48 residential suites designed and constructed around a “Town Center” concept. The Town Center is a centralized interactive area that will feature a movie theater, library, general store, bank, tavern, ice cream stand and salon along with icons to represent historical Atlanta. The design concept divides into four neighborhoods of 12 suites, each with its own residential environment that includes living rooms and dining areas. Residents will have access to landscaped secured outdoor courtyards and walking paths for freedom and movement in a safe and secured environment.

The Memory Center Atlanta will also be equipped with the latest technologies offering full medical over-site.

BUSINESSspotlight Vein Clinics of America opens in Alpharetta Business name: Vein Clinics of America About: For 35 years, Vein Clinics of America has established their medical practice specializing in the evaluation and management of varicose veins and venous diseases. The new Alpharetta procedure center is the second location in Alpharetta under the directorship of Todd B. Greer, MD. The practice has grown to efficiently meet the needs of patients seeking treatment and because of a greater awareness of the condition as a medical problem.

Opened: Nov. 7, 2016 Address: 2775 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta, Ga. 30004 Phone: 678-781-1770 Website: www.VeinClinicsofAmerica.net

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 19

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CALENDAR

SANTA’S VILLAGE LIGHT DISPLAY

Come see this holiday light display made up of about 14000 lights. There are also several additional displays, including a German Village, Santa’s Workshop with 20 animated elves making toys and an animated singing Santa Band. Train rides are available. Donations for Toys for Tots are encouraged. The display will be up through Dec. 31 from 6-9 p.m. at 405 Waverly Hall Drive in Roswell. For more information, visit bit.ly/2fKmTbB. Looking to get the word out about your event?

Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton. com/Calendar.

‘ THE NUTCRACKER’ PERFORMANCES: GWINNETT BALLET THEATRE

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: Infinite Energy Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth Cost: Tickets start at $6 More info and tickets: gwinnettballet.org

SAWNEE BALLET THEATRE

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: South Forsyth High School, 585 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming Cost: $15 for students, $20 for adults More info and tickets: sawneeballettheatre.org

METROPOLITAN BALLET

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: Blessed Trinity High School, 11320 Woodstock Road, Roswell Cost: Tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: metropolitanballet.org

Where: East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell Cost: $12 for residents, $18 for nonresidents More info and registration: roswellgov. com

PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

What: The Milton Fire Department is inviting everyone for breakfast with Santa, including fire station tours.

Unwrapped toys for North Fulton Community Charities’ Santa Toy Drive will be accepted.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 8-10 am.

Where: Fire Station 34, 750 Hickory Flat Road, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us or 678242-2533

NORTH ATLANTA CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta Cost: Tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: alpharettadancetheatre.com/thenutcracker

ATLANTA BALLET

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE

When: Through Dec. 24, times vary Where: The Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta Cost: Tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: foxtheatre.org

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS: CANDY CANE HUNT

What: After a pizza dinner, join the hunt for all types of candy canes.

Keep a lookout for a couple of giant candy canes to redeem special prizes.

Registration is required. For all ages.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.

ensemble featuring local talent.

When: Sunday, Dec. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Crabapple First Baptist Church, 12760 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta More info: alpharettasymphony.com

ADVENTURE TO SANTA

What: Enjoy the 12th annual Christmas Classics show, providing live Christmas music by local musicians.

This year’s production features harpist and vocalist Kristi Pass.

When: Sunday, Dec. 11, 3-5 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: $15 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

What: Meet Santa Claus in this immersive holiday experience. This season, the all-new attraction lets the family join Po and Friends for interactive games and an immersive, cinematic journey. Photo packages available.

When: Through Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta More info: awesomealpharetta.com

EVENTS:

What: Enjoy a full-scale tribute to the Christmas season, incorporating an all-volunteer cast. Stunning special effects ring in the season with theater, Broadway-style music and Christmas songs.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 3 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.

Where: Mount Pisgah United Methodist Church, 2850 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek.

More info: nacfonline.com

ALPHARETTA DANCE THEATRE

special events throughout the season and sign up for ice skating lessons.

When: Through Jan. 22, 2017, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: general admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

SWING FOR A CAUSE

What: Join Bear’s Best Atlanta for their Swing for a Cause charity golf tournament benefiting organizations such as Augie’s Quest and Toys for Tots.

Price includes food, golf and tee gift.

When: Friday, Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Where: Bear’s Best Atlanta, 5342 Aldeburgh Drive, Suwanee Cost: $69 More info and registration: ckennedy6104@me.com

REINDEER DAY

What: Meet live reindeer and enjoy a day of learning about winter animals.

Activities include reindeer games, story time, winter animal yoga, hot cocoa, crafts, face painting and more.

All activities included in general admission.

When: Sunday, Dec. 11, noon-4 p.m.

Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Cost: $10 for nonmembers, free for members More info: chattnaturecenter.org

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: FORSYTH PHILHARMONIC CHRISTMAS

What: A large variety of homemade cookies and other goodies sold by the pound. Cookies are gift boxed with colorful ribbon at no additional cost.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10 Where: Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming More info: ctklutheran.com

What: Celebrate this holiday season in style with live orchestral music presented by the Forsyth Philharmonic. Pieces will include the traditional favorites Sleigh Ride and Winter Wonderland, classical Christmas melodies.

When: Friday, Dec. 9, 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: $15 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

AVALON ON ICE

ASO HOLIDAY CONCERT

What: Ice skate on the Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza. Watch for theme nights and enjoy warm, tasty treats rink side. Enjoy

What: Come hear the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra at Crabapple First Baptist Church for their annual holiday concert. The ASO is a community

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS 2016

JOE GRANSDEN & HIS 16 PIECE BIG BAND

What: Come enjoy an evening with Joe Gransden and his 16 piece Big Band for the second of four concerts at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Season tickets are available.

When: Monday, Dec. 12, 8-10 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets starting at $30 More info and tickets: get.org or 770641-1260

‘SANTA’S MISSING MAIL’

What: David Stephens’s All Hands Productions returns to the stage this holiday season with this encore presentation. Audiences will meet panicked elves, a wise-cracking reindeer, a dim-witted superhero and Santa himself.

When: Dec. 15, 4 p.m.; Dec. 16, 10 a.m.; Dec. 17, 1 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell Cost: $5 More info and tickets: roswellcac.com

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

What: Gather at Roswell’s grand Bulloch Hall for an intimate 45-seat performance of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic once again. Reservations required.

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where; Bulloch Hall, 80 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell Cost: $16 for children and seniors, $18 for adults More info and tickets: bullochhall. org/a-christmas-carol.html

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET

What: Come see the classic holiday musical about a department store Santa Claus who claims to be the real Santa and must prove his authenticity.

When: Through Dec. 18, times vary Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta Cost: $20 for adults, $17 for children and seniors More info and tickets: act1theater.com

SYNERGY

What: Thirteen artists from the Brushwork Society of Atlanta will present their artwork in the 2016 exhibition. Enjoy a variety of paintings, including landscape, still life and figurative work. All are for sale.

When: Through Dec. 30 Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: thebrushworksociety.com

LIBRARY EVENTS: MIDDAY AT MILTON BOOK CLUB

What: Join in for a discussion of this month’s book, “Sarah’s Key” by Tatiana de Rosnay. Cost is free. Adults only.

When: Friday, Dec. 9, noon-1 p.m.

Where: Milton Branch Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: julia. padgett@fultoncountyga.gov or 404613-4445

BOOKS WITH PUPS

What: Come read to Shadow from Humane Hearts of Forsyth County.

Build confidence by reading aloud to a friendly pup. Space is limited. Ages 5 - 11.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Where: Milton Branch Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: liane.wagner@ fultoncountyga.gov

SPEECHCRAFT WORKSHOPS/ GAVEL CLUB

What: In a partnership with Alpharetta Toastmasters, adults and teens can learn how to improve and master the art of public speaking in this free workshop.

When: Sunday, Dec. 11, 2:30-4 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Branch Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

A VERY CRAFTY CHRISTMAS

What: Come to the Alpharetta Library for family painting and crafts, including making Christmas tree decorations and listening to holiday tunes. No RSVP necessary.

When: Monday, Dec. 12, 5-6 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Branch Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

STORIES FOR SHORTIES

What: Come and enjoy a participatory story time with stories, finger plays and songs. This event will feature an art project with My Clayground. Birth through age 5.

When: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 10:30-11 a.m.

Where: Milton Branch Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 23

Get outside Georgia:

Reindeer on the river? You bet!

One of the neatest things about this season of the year is the music you hear on the radio -- everything from to carols and classics to country-inspired tunes

by Elvis himself.

STEVE HUDSON It’s the holiday seaGet Outside Georgia, Chattahoochee Media Group son, and I love it.

“It’s the Holiday Season,” in fact, is the name of a jazzy seasonal standard. It’s been playing in my head this week…and as I hum it for the umpteenth time, I find myself basking in the notion that one of the most durable icons of “the holiday season” is (drum roll, please) reindeer.

Reindeer! What’s not to like?

They’ve got antlers, reindeer paws and, in at least one case, a possible red nose. Besides, they pull sleighs, and sleighs (as everyone knows) are good to have around on Christmas Eve. But as it happens, real reindeer are fairly scarce hereabouts.

Yes, I do see lots of wildlife as I hike this time of year. Now that the leaves are mostly off the trees, it’s a great time to hike quietly and look for creatures such as squirrels and the occasional possum or wild turkey and even ordinary whitetail deer.

As many have discovered, you don’t have to go far to spot deer in this part of town. I’ve seen lots of ‘em right here in the neighborhood. Some were just passing through; in fact, just a few weeks ago, my next-door neighbor got some great video of a huge buck wandering around in our front yard.

Maybe it was on its way to join its fellow deer-types for some fine dining on all that new landscaping that the guy up the street put in back in September. Newly-planted landscaping is the deer equivalent of a salad bar, I suppose.

When I really want to look for deer, though, I head for my favorite deer-spotting trail in the Jones Bridge Unit of the Chattahoochee Recreation Area. The trails on the downriver end of the Jones Bridge seem to meander through some particularly deerfriendly terrain, and it’s not unusual for quiet hikers to see multiple deer on every outing. My personal record is about a dozen spotted on one trip.

There’s just one problem. They’re all regular ol’ whitetails. What I want to see is a reindeer, the official deer of the season, but (like we said) reindeer are somewhat harder to find.

Or are they? Not if you know where

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is located at 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell.

For more info on Reindeer Day and other Nature Center programs, visit chattnaturecenter.org.

Reindeer Day has grown be the Nature Center’s most heavily attended event of the year.

Reindeer Day festivities are included with general admission to the Nature Center.

So bring your kids and your camera, and get ready for perfect seasonal outdoor adventure that’s very close to home. Reindeer Day is coming to town!

to look.

On Sunday, Dec. 11, from noon till 4 p.m., the place to look for reindeer will be at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. That’s the date of the Nature Center’s sixth annual “Reindeer Day,” a day when you and your family get the chance to visit with two honest-togoodness reindeer while enjoying a host of other great seasonal activities too. From arts and crafts activities to face painting and storytelling (and, yes, even reindeer games) you and your family will find plenty to make for an afternoon that you won’t forget.

You’ll love it. In fact, over the years,

Learn about the great hiking opportunities along the Chattahoochee River in Steve Hudson’s “Hiking the Hooch,” a comprehensive guide to the trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and to several other related trails. It’s available from local outfitters, on Amazon or direct from the author at chattahoocheemedia.com.

24 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

24 | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016

Sponsored Section

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Holiday health for your spine What you may be putting off as a nagging back problem can interrupt holiday fun. Lifting heavy boxes and luggage, holiday decorating, extensive shopping, and even playing with the grandkids, can contribute to lower back pain, one of the top medical complaints in the United States.

OrthoAtlanta orthopedic surgeon, Tuan Bui, MD, specializing in spine surgery offers these holiday spine care tips: Lift with your legs (not your back).

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If you’ve been overlooking nagging back pain, consider making a new year’s resolution to have a thorough examination by a skilled orthopedic surgeon.

OrthoAtlanta orthopaedic and sports medicine practices wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season. Now with on-site MRI at both locations, OrthoAtlanta offices in Johns Creek, 678-205-4261 and Gwinnett, 678-957-0757 offer comprehensive operative and non-operative musculoskeletal care and expertise including sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, pain management and acute orthopedic urgent care. OrthoAtlanta.com.

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Health & Wellness • Sponsored Section

Old age can be a time of discovery, joy and CELEBRATION!

By Brooke Walls Sales Manager, Celebration Village What does it mean to celebrate life as we age?

Most commonly people fear growing old, or think of it as a time when life’s possibilities will be limited. All too often people think that life will end at the retirement home door—that it is loveless and lonely, with death hovering close by.

But there is a way to successfully age. It can be a time of self-recreation, of nurturing interests, of discovering new lifestyles—to grow, achieve, learn, share, educate, create, invent and celebrate what’s to come.

It begins with the choice of where to spend your precious golden years, and whether or not the lifestyle it offers empowers you to remain independent, active and engaged in life—allowing you to retain purpose for as long as possible. This lifestyle is one that celebrates life and is the core principle of Masterpiece Living’s Successful Aging.

Masterpiece Living is a unique, research-based initiative, developed in conjunction with the Mayo Clinic, and offers a whole-person wellness lifestyle.

Findings from a 10-year study by the MacArthur Foundation revealed that 70% of the way you age physically and 50% of how you age mentally is dependent on lifestyle and the choices you make, rather than genetics.

This means everything from your activities to your social connections to your stress level can be major factors in how quickly you age. Further, the Successful Aging study determined the best practices to help seniors live longer, healthier, and happier lives. It all comes down to celebrating life to the fullest, and providing ourselves the perfect

environment to do so.

Many retirement communities adopt the holistic cultural approach model, but only a select few have been built or managed specifically with Masterpiece Living.

A Masterpiece Living community integrates the right lifestyle options for successful aging into every aspect of retirement community life through true physical, intellectual, social and spiritual engagement.

These forward-thinking communities promote personal growth by empowering older adults to make healthier lifestyle choices and encourages social interaction—proven to enhance overall quality of life, while lowering the risk of dementia and other forms of deterioration and disease.

Residents enjoy purposeful opportunities to learn new things, make new friends, and embark on a journey toward a longer, healthier and more fulfilling life.

Simply put, this is an environment where successful aging – at any age or circumstance – is possible, giving us all time to discover ourselves, to find new joys and celebrate life and those important milestones as we age.

Opening in Forsyth County and Acworth in the spring, Celebration Village is proud to be built and managed with the founders of Masterpiece Living, and embodies the findings on successful aging to help residents age successfully, and ultimately celebrate living longer, healthier, happier lives. The Celebration Village concept, developed by Active Senior Concepts (ASC) and AgeWell Living, is a state-of-the-art, next-generation Senior Living Community model created to provide aging adults an upbeat lifestyle promoting independence and optimism.

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 25

26 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Health & Wellness • Sponsored Section

Tips to live a healthier, more active lifestyle well into your later years

Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is the new signature in senior living For people who have reservations about moving to a senior community, seeing the beautiful and convenient lifestyle at Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is eye opening and a refreshing alternative to what most people envision a senior community to look and feel like.

Arbor Terrace is the new signature in senior living and offers a vibrant, active lifestyle with luxury services for seniors. Residents at Arbor Terrace are neighbors, volunteers, explorers and learners who have chef-prepared meals every day and access to lifestyle and wellness amenities that provide convenience and enrich their day to day life.

The 101-apartment community is situated in one of the most desirable areas in Johns Creek, the community is close to healthcare, cultural venues,

fine shopping and dining. Arbor Terrace is a one-of-a-kind community offering a luxurious lifestyle with concierge services, chef-prepared meals, housekeeping and more, without a large investment or long-term commitment.

We have changed the way people live,” says Beth Richardson, Executive Director at Arbor Terrace. “With a more convenient lifestyle, our residents find they have the time and energy to actually enjoy life while receiving as little or as much support as they need.”

Try us on for size, stay for 3 weeks and get a 4th week free to experience all we have to offer! Spaces are limited so call today!

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(NAPSI)—According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), by 2030, one in every five Americans will be over the age of 65. Whatever your age now, it’s wise to prepare yourself mentally and physically for growing older.

Adults today, the CDC adds, are looking not only to extend their lives, but to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle well into their later years.

Here are a few simple tips to incorporate into your daily routine to ensure healthy aging: 1. Tailor your diet to include lots of organic fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy fats such as omega-3s, and limiting your intake of processed foods and added sugar.

2. Exercise three to four times a week, including a mix of moderate-intensity activity like brisk walking or water aerobics, along with vigorous-intensity activities such as playing tennis or hiking. Adding strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups is important to consider as well.

3. Work with your health care provider to introduce a foundational supplement regimen into your daily routine. Nutritional supplements contribute to adequate intake of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial compounds such as antioxidants, resveratrol and other phytonutrients to keep your cells healthy. In addition to multivitamins, other top supplements that are considered beneficial for healthy aging include: • Omega-3 fatty acids such as fish oil that help to balance inflammation and support joints, as well as cardiac and cognitive function • A multistrain probiotic to support healthy gut bacteria, leading to improved digestion and strengthened immunity • Co-enzyme Q10, an antioxidant beneficial for cellular repair and increased energy.

Healthy aging is not just exclusive for the older generations. Now, people across all generations are making longterm lifestyle changes to feel good from the inside out. Different age groups, however, have different needs.

The 30s: Whether focused on getting that next promotion or raising a family or both, many people in their 30s find the demands of daily life require all hours of the day.

Nutritional supplements, especially probiotics and those that boost energy and immunity, provide support for their fast-paced lifestyles.

Today’s 50s are not slowing down.

They’re all about vibrancy and continued growth.

The 40s: People in their 40s know that smart decisions today pay off later.

In what is the peak career decade for many, 40-somethings want to stay sharp to make the most of each day, but have developed an appreciation for simplicity. For them, supplementation often includes fish oil and plant-based proteins.

The 50s: Today’s 50s are not slowing down. They’re all about vibrancy and continued growth. However, as the natural effects of aging begin to take their course, hormone levels often diminish, so it’s important to regulate levels of sex, thyroid and adrenal hormones to feel and function your best.

Also, supporting musculoskeletal system health can help enhance mobility and joint function.

The 60s and 70s: People in their 60s and 70s know that aging is about getting the most life out of their years.

During these decades, nutritional supplements can support healthy vision, cognition, and digestive health.

Expert Advice “Aging is a beautiful, healthy process,” explains Registered Dietitian and Director of Product Development and Education at Douglas Laboratories, Kristi Belohlavek. “With the right nutrition regimen, people can look and feel their best, no matter how many candles they’re adding to their birthday cake. With a balanced diet, exercise and proper supplementation, busy bees can stay mobile and active later in life, despite changes in muscle function and decreases in bone density.” Many of the top-quality supplements that can protect your health come from Douglas Laboratories, a nutritional supplement company dedicated to helping people lead healthier, active lifestyles well into their later years.

Learn More: It is recommended to consult with your health care practitioner before introducing any new changes to your current nutritional supplement routine.

For more information, visit www. douglaslabs.com/healthyaging.

Health & Wellness • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 27

Could it be depression?

Self esteem issues?

Is your child struggling?

Grades not what you expected?

Just not themself?

IS YOUR CHILD: Having self-esteem issues or making negative comments about himself\herself?

Unusually pessimistic about the future?

Avoiding friends or developing new, unusual, or questionable friendships?

More irritable, sarcastic, or impatient than usual?

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28 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Health & Wellness • Sponsored Section

Don’t let a little hearing loss turn into something bigger

By Amy Ledbetter, Au.D. Director of Audiology As a hearing healthcare professional, I hear it all the time from patients I talk to: “A little hearing loss is no big deal.”

And sure, when compared to vision loss, gradual hearing loss is easier to deal with, Ledbetter work around and put off. But make no mistake, untreated hearing loss can quickly turn into a “big deal” — which may have serious consequences to your physical health and overall quality of life.

Recent studies have found many connections between hearing loss and other health conditions. Here is just a small sampling of what researchers have found*: • Older adults with impaired hearing

may have a shorter lifespan than peers without hearing problems.

• Adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia than peers without.

• People with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to have a history of falling.

• Adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression, anxiety and paranoia than peers who wore hearing aids.

• People with low-frequency hearing loss are considered at risk for cardiovascular events.

Early treatment can keep risks at bay The good news is, treating hearing loss can help negate almost every risk.

Even better? Hearing loss treatment is more advanced and available than ever.

But it’s important to act sooner rather than later, as science also shows that the longer hearing loss treatment is put

off, the harder and less certain recovery is.

Set yourself up for success If you’ve been putting off treatment — or think you may have hearing loss but aren’t quite sure — there is no time like the present to take charge of your hearing health. At North Fulton ENT, we make it easy by offering free hearing consultations. Our board-certified physicians and medically trained audiology team collaborate to find the best hearing solution for each patient.

We have the experience and state-ofthe-art hearing equipment needed to accurately measure any hearing loss, assess your unique needs, and prescribe a solution that takes all this important and personalized information into account.

Dr. Amy Ledbetter has been a practicing clinical audiologist for 17 years. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences in 1995 and then her Master’s degree

in 1997 from the University of Southern Mississippi. In 2009, she completed her doctoral degree from the University of Florida. Awareness is the first step toward treating hearing loss. At North Fulton ENT, it is our top priority to help patients maintain the highest quality of life. Call us today for a complimentary hearing screening: (770) 450-6508. *Sources: http://health.usnews.com/healthnews/articles/2015/09/24/olderadults-hearing-loss-may-be-tied-toearlier-death http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ news/media/releases/hearing_loss_ and_dementia_linked_in_study http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ news/media/releases/hearing_loss_ linked_to_three_fold_risk_of_falling http://www.betterhearing.org/ hearingpedia/bhi-archives/eguides/ impact-untreated-hearing-losshousehold-income

Low blood glucose can be highly dangerous (NAPSI)—If you or someone you care about is among the more than 29 million Americans living with diabetes—of the additional 86 million who are at risk for developing the disease—there’s something you should know.

The Problem One complication of diabetes, hypoglycemia, occurs most often in people taking medications as treatments that may raise insulin levels too high, which can cause blood glucose levels to drop too low. Hypoglycemia can be dangerous and, depending on the severity, can lead to various symptoms including dizziness, confusion, anxiety, seizure or loss of consciousness.

It’s a particular problem in hospitalized patients. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is associated with increased short- and longterm mortality risk, per a new study published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

To increase awareness of hypoglycemia in persons with diabetes mellitus and to foster initiatives focused on reducing its incidence, the Endocrine Society established the Hypoglycemia Quality Collaborative (HQC), a coalition of medical specialty societies, payers, industry, patient advocates, diabetes educators and research organizations.

Seeking Answers “Hypoglycemia is common among hospitalized patients with and without diabetes mellitus,” explained the stu-

dy’s senior author, Amit Akirov, M.D., of Rabin Medical Center in Petah Tikva, Israel. “Our findings suggest that hypoglycemia, whether insulin related or noninsulin related, is associated with short- and long-term mortality risk.”

The study included nearly 3,000 patients with hypoglycemia, defined as blood glucose levels < 70 mg/dL, during hospitalization at a 1,330-bed, university-affiliated medical center. Researchers evaluated medical records and the hospital’s mortality database to investigate the association between hypoglycemia and mortality in hospitalized patients. They found that for patients with hypoglycemia, end of follow-up mortality was 31.9 percent.

Mortality risk was higher in insulin-treated patients with moderate hypoglycemia (40−70 mg/dL), compared to patients without insulin treatment with similar glucose values. However, with severe hypoglycemia (<40 mg/ dL), the increase in mortality risk was similar with insulin-related and noninsulin-related hypoglycemia. Cause of admission did not affect the association between glucose levels and mortality.> “These data are a timely reminder that hypoglycemia of any cause carries the association with increased mortality,” said Akirov.

The new HQC blueprint provides recommendations and tactics in multiple strategic areas including reducing gaps in care, advocating for increased focus on hypoglycemia, and improving

• Insurance companies and health care providers should look for ways to incorporate continuous glucose monitoring data into clinical decision making to prevent and manage hypoglycemia in high-risk individuals; • Diabetes educators, patient advocacy groups and social workers should engage patients and caregivers regarding self-management techniques as well as protective rights in the workplace; and • Hypoglycemia-specific education should be targeted by age and gender, sensitive to the amount of time a patient has available, and include training from behaviorists, nurses, dietitians and exercise physiologists.

quality of care for patients who experience hypoglycemia.

Suggested Solutions • Federal government should increase funding for research at the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reduce gaps in evidence related to hypoglycemia prevention and management;

Endocrinologists are at the core of solving some of the most pressing health problems of our time, from diabetes and obesity to infertility, bone health, and hormone-related cancers.

The Endocrine Society is the world’s oldest and largest organization of scientists devoted to hormone research and physicians who care for people with hormone-related conditions. The Society, which is celebrating its centennial, has more than 18,000 members, including scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students.

Learn More: For further facts about endocrinology, visit www.endocrine.org, @TheEndoSociety and @EndoMedia.

Health & Wellness • Sponsored Section

ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 29

DID YOU KNOW? Your overall health BLOOD PRESSURE High blood pressure can be and well-being can be FALLING an accelerating factor of People with mild hearing loss are hearing loss in adults. directly linked to hearing three times more likely to have a history of falling than people with health. Recent studies normal hearing. show treating hearing loss ALZHEIMER’S early will protect your & DEMENTIA overall health. At North Seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to Fulton ENT Associates, HEARING develop dementia than those who retain their hearing.

LOSS our board-certified is connected to health physicians and medically other conditions DEPRESSION trained audiology team Adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression, anxiety and paranoia than peers who wore collaborate to find the hearing aids. best hearing solution for each patient.

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Continued from Page 2 case Nov. 24 from a local grocery store.

An employee called the sheriff’s office when she walked into the store and realized the case was missing. She also noticed two cartons of cigarettes stolen.

In addition the majority of lights at the front of the store had been broken.

The owner said he received a call

If you go What: Lambert High School theatre presents “Godspell” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” When: Dec. 8-10, 7p.m. and 2p.m.

Where: Lambert auditorium Tickets: atldrama.com/ performances-tickets games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing.

An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage.

Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus’ messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life.

For tickets, visit atldrama.com/performances-tickets.

at 2 a.m. from his alarm company, but said he saw nothing suspicious so he cancelled the alarm.

After he was contacted by his employee, he reviewed video surveillance and saw men entering the store, stealing the items and attempting to steal the ATM machine.

The deputy attempted to contact the Georgia Lottery Corporation to obtain scratch-off ticket numbers and denominations, but was told since it was a holiday no one was in the office.

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Lambert High School theatre is performing both “Godspell” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Dec. 8-10, 7p.m. and 2p.m. in the Lambert auditorium.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is William Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, portraying the adventures of four young lovers and a group of amateur actors, their interactions with woodland fairies and a duke and duchess.

Taking place in a mythical Athens and an enchanted forest, there is a handsome fairy king, a misguided parent, star-crossed lovers, a weaver who’s transformed into a half-donkey, wood sprites and elves.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 31

Religious Services

Rediscover the meaning and miracles of Christmas You are invited to connect with a loving community Dec. 24 at 4:00*, 6:00* & 11:00pm *A caring nursery is provided for children 4 years old and younger.

December 25 at 10:30am for a family-friendly experience

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32 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Library EVENTS Send us your news!

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

Libraries host friendly Santa FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — “Sitting on Santa’s lap can be uncomfortable or scary for children with special needs, as well as frustrating for their parents who just want to give their child a positive experience with such a beloved part of the holiday season,” says Program Manager Laura Bradley. “This is the third year we’re offering Sensitive Santa events where the lights are dim, voices are quiet, and children can enjoy a visit with Santa at a slower pace.”

Parents or caregivers may take as many photos of their child with Santa as they like. Advance registration is required to participate.

Events will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10 starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, 2 p.m. at the Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road and Dec. 18 at 1:45 p.m. at the Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road.

For information on the event, visit forsythpl.org.

Book character visits libraries FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Fans of Laura Numeroff’s “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” can meet Cookie Mouse at a series of special events.

There will be holiday stories, crafts, and photo opportunities with Cookie Mouse on Thursday, Dec. 8 at 6:30

GEORGIA DOME

JAN 14

p.m. at the Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, and on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. at the Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road. The Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, will host events on Friday, Dec. 9 at 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 10 at 11:15 a.m.

For information on the event, visit forsythpl.org.

‘The Polar Express’ storytelling returns FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg, a holiday story, will be hosted by the libraries to get families into the spirit of the season. Children are invited to wear their pajamas, listen to the story and make crafts.

Storytime will be held at the Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road on Dec. 6 and 13 at 6 p.m.

At the Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, it will be held on Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. The Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, will host story time on Dec. 14 at 4 and 6:30 p.m.

For information on the event, visit forsythpl.org.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 33

Arrests: Continued from Page 2 ►► Dieter Klaus Scholte, 60, of

Oak Farm Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 22 on McGinnis Ferry Road in Alpharetta for DUI, open container and following too close.

Drug arrests ►► Kevin Rockwell, 50, of Second

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners meets on Nov. 17, accepting the awards given to the county by The National Association of County Information Officers.

County receives awards from NACIO FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The National Association of County Information Officers has recognized the Forsyth County Fire Department 2014 Annual Report, the county’s new website and the recent branding initiative and new logo.

All three projects garnered accolades through the 2016 NACIO Awards of Excellence.

The Forsyth County Fire Department 2014 Annual Report received the meritorious award for its information about the fire department’s divisions, stations, apparatus and review of the year.

The 2014 report can be viewed online at forsythco.com.

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Avenue, Decatur, was arrested Nov. 23 on Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Cumming for possession of methamphetamines. ►► Nathan Hugh Payne, 33, of Cleveland, Georgia, was arrested Nov. 24 on Bannister Road in Cumming for possession of a schedule III controlled substance and failure to maintain lane. ►► Donald Allen Jackson, 45, of Lakeside Place, Gainesville, was arrested Nov. 26 on Crystal Cove Trail in Gainesville for possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug related items and suspended license. ►► Ja’lon Lorenzo-Ottis Wall, 22, of Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, was arrested Nov. 24 on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek for possession of marijuana.

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34 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

Fall and winter home preparation

By KAREN PATE SVP, Broker At last Fall is upon us! This has been a most unusual Fall season with the balmy temperatures and the lack of rain. Many of us have been anxious for the change to come.

Even though we are in the south we typically do not face the brutality of winter that pummels our friends in the north. However, there are many seasonal maintenance tasks we should be doing for our homes. Here are several suggestions that the experts make regarding the preparation of your home for the winter months.

Eliminate the dirt – We spend significantly more time hunkering down indoors during the winter months. You want to eliminate the dirt before you close up shop for the season. Disinfect your kitchen & baths from residue and mold.

Per the EPA your indoor air quality can be five times more polluted vs. outdoor air. Do a deep clean dusting of carpets, furniture, bookcases, ceiling fans, refrigerators, floor grates, return ducts, doors and windows. Dust accumulates in areas not usually visible and

can be very unhealthy.

Have you looked underneath your beds & furniture? How about behind your refrigerator? That’s what I am talking about!

Service your HVAC system – Contact a professional Pate & reliable heating & cooling company to do a Fall checkup.

The checkup should include inspection of the following: electrical and/or gas connections, lubrication of moving parts, pressure, burner combustion, heat exchanger, and finally the filters.

Most companies offer yearly programs.

The benefit of an annual contract is that you tend to catch defects early on and hopefully warrants only minor repairs. Programmable thermostats are a must and be certain the thermostat is designed for your particular type of system.

Lawn & Garden – Trim back bushes, shrubs and any tree limbs hanging over the house. Should we experience an ice storm you do not want these branches breaking off and hitting your home. Now that the majority of the

f your gutters are not clear this can cause extensive water damage to your home should the water runoff be diverted to the wrong area. leaves are down clear out all vegetation debris from garden beds, lawn and gutters. If your gutters are not clear this can cause extensive water damage to your home should the water runoff be diverted to the wrong area. Vegetation debris left too long will decay & rot causing mold to accumulate and can cause damage if near or on your house.

Brick, Wood & Mortar – Fall is a great time to do repairs before the winter sets in. Go around your house and look for loose mortar between the brick, sidewalk, driveway, patio and

stairs. Repair & replace as needed. Next look closely at your wood siding & trim for wood rot, peeling paint and loose/ crumbly caulk. If the wood looks soft or mushy gently press into the wood to see if it has rotted. Replace, repair and paint as necessary to prevent further damage and eliminate water intrusion.

Areas that are likely to have damage would be: dormers, chimneys, and any wood that comes in contact with your trees and shrubbery. Lastly, put away unused lawn equipment ideally draining the gas from the lawn mower. Turn off the water for spigots & sprinkler systems remembering to place a styrofoam cover over your spigots to prevent pipes from bursting.

There is a great website which is www.Houselogic.com that has great tips and specific instructions on “how to’s” for homeowners. Check it out!

If you or someone you know should need real estate consultation services please feel free to give us a call.

Karen Pate/Vice President & Managing Broker for Harry Norman, REALTORS®. Our Forsyth/Lake Lanier office is located at 1664 Market Place Blvd. in Cumming and our phone number is #770-497-2000.

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ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald | December 8, 2016 | 35

South Forsyth High School sophomore Sudhan Chitgopkar represented Ivy Bridge Academy debate team at a competition held at Georgetown University. He and his partner finished second overall.

SFHS represented at national debate competition at Georgetown University FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Ivy Bridge Academy debate team traveled to Georgetown University over the weekend of Oct. 8-9 for a major national debate competition. Sudhan Chitgopkar, a sophomore at South Forsyth High School, and his partner competed in the Junior Varsity division and made it all the way to finals, winning seven debates in two days, and ultimately finishing in second place overall. Sudhan was also awarded the fifth place individual speaker.

The IBA coaches and staff are extremely proud of all of their students as they all work together to help the team accomplish such amazing results. Each competition has given the debaters a chance to continue to learn, improve, work together and demonstrate their accomplishments on a national level.

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36 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

COMMUNITY

Northside’s Celebration of Lights kicks off holidays Annual event honors those with cancer

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Christmas season is in full swing in Forsyth County, complete with a dazzling 66-foot tall tree atop the county’s first skyscraper: Northside Hospital-Forsyth.

At the 28th annual Celebration of Lights Dec. 2, the hospital celebrated with games, caroling and dancers.

Performers included Coal Mountain Elementary School The Melodies of the Mountain chorus, Sole Impulse Dance Studio, Renaissance International School of the Performing Arts, Dance Now, Lakeside Middle School 6th grade chorus, Sawnee Ballet and the Vickery Creek Middle School chorus.

Lynn Jackson, Northside HospitalForsyth administrator, said because the tree sits atop the building, which recently grew three floors and became the county’s first skyscraper. It can

The survivor tree features purple ornaments to honor those who have overcome cancer.

Photos by KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

Vickery Creek Middle School chorus performs traditional tunes. practically be seen from Dahlonega.

And it’s hard to miss the 60,000 lights on the tree.

Children enjoy many activities and getting to see a performer on stilts.

DEATH NOTICES Cecile L. Allen, 84, of Milton, passed away November 23, 2016. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home.

Charles Banister, 84, of Cumming, passed away November 26, 2016.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Rev. Gerald Rudolph Carnes, 74, of Cumming, passed away November 22, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dorris Croom, of Roswell, passed away November 26, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

“The purpose of this event tonight is to remember and honor all those who have fought cancer, and to celebrate the many victories and strides that have been made toward the cure of this disease,” Jackson said. “We also light trees atop Northside Hospital in Sandy Springs and the Northside Alpharetta Medical Campus. Each light on the trees represents someone whose life has been affected by cancer.”

Northside diagnoses and treats more cases of cancer than any other community hospital in Georgia, Jackson said. Because of this, they have a special survivor Christmas tree decorated in purple at the event with the ornaments and lights on the tree donated to the hospital.

So far, $550,000 has been raised since the lighting began 28 years ago.

“Northside is proud to have helped so many survive cancer,” she said.

“Your support of Northside helps us to

The tree atop Northside Hospital Forsyth has lights representing people affected by cancer. ensure the quality of service we provide to Atlanta’s families and continue to provide these types of support and celebration programs to our patients.”

To learn more about Northside’s light donations, visit give.northside. com.

James Michael Flournoy, 70, of Cumming, passed away November 27, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Robert Jerome Stephens, 78, of Cumming, passed away November 28, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

William Vincent Kuch, 30, of Cumming, passed away November 19, 2016.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Alice Sterling, of Roswell, passed away November 25, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Harry F. Dixon, 93, of Roswell, passed away November 22, 2016. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home.

Charles W. Loggins, 72, of Cumming, passed away November 29, 2016.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Patrick J. Farrell, 29, of Johns Creek, passed away November 22, 2016.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Thomas Malecki, 60, of Roswell, passed away November 22, 2016. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home.

NORTHSIDE WOMAN

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell ForsythHerald.com | Forsyth Herald Herald || December December 1, 8, 2016 2016 || 47 37

‘Lifestyle’ options at Alpharetta boutiques Two locations cater to all aspects of clients’ lives

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northsidewoman.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. - After crisscrossing the country for years as the wife of a college and pro football coach, Lisa Baggett has finally, firmly planted her feet in North Fulton. As a further sign of permanency, the Milton resident has opened two successful boutiques in Alpharetta, Isabella Bleu and La Bella Maison, catering to the “lifestyle” of area shoppers. ‘’I love all of the resources available in North Fulton....the hustle and bustle of the city and the strong antique community,” said Baggett, who moved to North Fulton from Nashville four years ago.

With her husband, Charlie, now retired, Baggett has more time to devote to her pursuits, picking up where she started during a short stay in Minneapolis about a decade ago. There, she opened her first boutique, but shuttered the business after a year when her husband’s job prompted another move.

“I’ve always been a big shopper, and I have been told many times I have a very good eye, but I never thought I had the skills to run my own business,” said Baggett, who previously worked in the admissions office at Michigan State University. “When I was working, I didn’t have time to slow down and think about decorating and home decor.”

But the experience in opening and owning her own store all those years ago, showed her how easily her business skills would transfer over.

Isabella Bleu got its start in 2014 in a booth at Queen of Hearts in Alpharetta, with Baggett featuring a line of furniture and home decor that quickly found a following among customers. Two years ago, she took the plunge as a small business owner, opening Isabella Bleu on North Main in Alpharetta, followed by La Bella Maison soon after in downtown Alpharetta off Milton Avenue.

Baggett describes the stores as “lifestyle boutiques” that align with client needs across the spectrum.

“When we first started out it was mostly furnishings and home accessories, but we quickly learned that when people [no longer have a need for those items] they are buying jewelry and gifts,” said Baggett. “So we focused on that, as well.”

Recently, the boutiques have begun “dabbling” in clothing, with unique offerings customers will likely not see

DEVON MCKENNA/PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO

Lisa Baggett owner of La Bella Maison, located at 20 Milton Ave. in Downtown Alpharetta and Isabella Bleu, located at 500 N. Main Street in Alpharetta. elsewhere.

The two locations are similar – but different – catering to the customer base that each location draws, notes Baggett.

“Downtown has a younger clientele that reflects the urban vibe, and we get a lot of foot traffic,” said Baggett. “On Main Street our clients tend to be a bit older, sophisticated, and they don’t want to battle the traffic, find parking... they just want to pull up to the door.”

She is excited about the growth in downtown Alpharetta, loves how the businesses are working together to help each other, but also hope the area will always retain its character.

“Our little street is the original downtown...and we are located right next to the beauty shop that’s been there for years,” said Baggett. I hope there is a way we can protect history and still have progress.”

Baggett’s passion for antiques, decor and accessories, surprises even her at times. She grew up in Michigan, the daughter of parents who loved “antiquing” and the niece of a New York designer who’s work graced department store windows on 5th Avenue. But for

I love all of the resources available in North Fulton.... the hustle and bustle of the city and the strong antique community.”

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Baggett, those were pursuits she had little interest in at the time.

“I always wondered why they were so interested in painted porcelain sinks,” she laughs. “I thought it was so boring...and now it has come full circle.”

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40 | December 8, 2016 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

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