November book events pay homage to veterans ► PAGE 13 O c t o b e r 2 6 , 2 0 2 3 | A p p e n M e d i a . 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 2 7 , N o . 4 3
Synagogue sets support session for community FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Congregation Beth Israel will host “The World of Kabbalah” Nov. 1-Dec. 6 to offer comfort to the community in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. Rabbi Levi Mentz said the synagogue has fielded phone calls for support from Jews and the larger community every day. “People are really hurting inside,” Mentz said. Congregation Beth Israel also hosted “North Georgia Stands with Israel,” a night of prayer and solidarity that drew dozens of guests Oct. 13 following the Hamas terrorist attacks that launched the ongoing conflict. The courses will be held Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at 785 Brannon Road. Those interested can register for the course at jewishforsyth.org/form/ JLIWorldofKabbalah. — Shelby Israel
County approves proposal for new day care operation ► PAGE 3
Elementary redistricting plan passes School Board hurdle By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — In a unanimous vote, the Forsyth County Board of Education approved a 2024-25 elementary school redistricting map that ignited pushback from patrons affected by the change. The School Board approved the map at a formal meeting Oct. 17. Schools Deputy Superintendent Mitch Young said the redistricting lines remained unchanged from the Oct. 10 work session, where the map was presented in its final form. The Board of Education first shared the redistricting plans Aug. 8, and the district solicited public feedback from mid to late September. A public forum was held Sept. 20 at West Forsyth High School. Following the forum, the school district shifted the redistricting lines to allow fewer than 50 students who were redistricted to Kelly Mill to remain at Sawnee Elementary School. The Oct. 17 meeting marked the final opportunity for residents to speak on the matter, and public sentiment remained much the same. Four affected residents spoke against the redistricting at the meeting, emphasizing the bonds their students have made at their current schools, the strain of longer commute times and traffic concerns. Speaker Jason Potter, who lives off Bentley Road, said he and his community
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Forsyth County resident Jason Potter speaks in opposition to the 2024-25 elementary school redistricting Oct. 17 at a Board of Education meeting. Potter was one of four speakers who took a final stand against the redistricting plan at the meeting. launched a petition to provide a platform for residents who may have been unaware of their redistricting from Vickery Creek to the new Midway Elementary School. He said 129 neighbors signed off in opposition to the plans. “Vickery is our home,” Potter said.
What do you want to know about the community?
“Please don’t make us move our children from our home.” At the various meetings, speakers have expressed concerns about increased traffic congestion on Post Road.
See SCHOOLS, Page 20
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Grovetown man cited for meth possession FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a 34-yearold Grovetown man Oct. 7 for possession of methamphetamine. Deputies reported receiving a suspicious person call around 9 a.m. at the Lou Sobh Kia dealership on Buford Highway. The caller said the suspect was following customers to the restroom and being disruptive toward staff. The suspect then went to a nearby Dunkin Donuts where deputies spoke with him. The suspect said he was at the dealership looking at vehicles. Deputies reported observing he had pinpoint pupils. He was also speaking quickly, fidgeting and looking around the room, the report states. Deputies then spoke with the suspect outside and asked him if he had consumed drugs. He confirmed he had smoked methamphetamine the night before and had the drug in his pocket, the report states. The suspect said he had walked from Gwinnett County, but deputies reported finding keys to a Nissan in his pocket. After interviewing the suspect, a rehabilitation center on Sanders Road reported an abandoned vehicle had been running outside since 8:30 a.m. Deputies confirmed the vehicle was registered to the suspect. Deputies reported finding additional methamphetamine in a sock in the vehicle. The suspect was charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute.
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PUBLIC SAFETY Deputies arrest woman for alleged elder abuse FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a 45-year-old Cumming woman Oct. 12 on battery and abuse charges after she allegedly harmed her elderly mother at their home on Scott Road. The victim’s sister reported Oct. 9 she had heard the victim crying in her room between 2 and 3 a.m. the previous morning. She said she went to the victim’s room to help her back onto her bed. She called the suspect to help, but the victim said she did not want the suspect near her. The victim told deputies she woke up and saw the suspect standing over her. She said she did not remember the suspect physically assaulting her, but the suspect was “angry with her” that night because she accused her of taking her phone. Because the victim was uncertain how she got her injuries, the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division reviewed the case. The suspect was later arrested and charged with misdemeanor family violence battery, and abuse, neglect or exploitation of the elderly. She is being held at the Forsyth County Jail. Bond is set at $16,650.
Atlanta pair arrested after high-speed chase FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested two Atlanta men Sept. 25 on multiple charges following a high-speed chase on Ga. 400. Deputies reported observing a Honda Civic stopped on the right shoulder of the exit 15 ramp on northbound Ga. 400 around 11 p.m. Sept. 24. When deputies approached the vehicle, it pulled out in front of another vehicle without its headlights on. The suspect vehicle reportedly drove through the red light onto Bald Ridge Marina Road, and deputies pursued the vehicle onto southbound Ga. 400. Deputies reported the suspect vehicle entered the highway at 90 mph and ac-
celerated beyond 100 mph. Deputies could not perform a PIT maneuver because of the speeds and presence of other drivers, the report states. The vehicle continued to drive erratically, reaching speeds of 115 mph, according to the report. Deputies deployed stop sticks near exit 13, and the vehicle stopped after its tires deflated, the report states. Deputies reported four suspects fled from the vehicle across the northbound side of the highway toward the tree line. One was arrested. Inside the vehicle, deputies reported finding a small bag of marijuana and two crowbars. Deputies located a second suspect around 5 a.m. on Garonne Way. He told deputies he ran from the stop because he thought his car was uninsured and he would be arrested. The first suspect, 43, was charged with misdemeanor obstruction of law enforcement officers. The second suspect, 32, was charged with attempting to elude for a felony offense, as well as misdemeanor reckless driving, speeding, failure to maintain lane, failure to obey traffic control device, operating a vehicle without lights, obstruction of law enforcement officers and possession of marijuana under 1 ounce. The two remaining suspects have not been identified.
Mail theft proves costly for Milton fraud victim MILTON, Ga. — A Milton man reported to police Oct. 13 that someone had requested a debit card using his information and had taken it from his mailbox on Arnold Mill Road. The victim told police nearly $33,000 had been withdrawn from his bank as a result. He said he and his wife had seen someone remove an item from their mailbox, but they did not know what it was. The victim described to police an email he received showing several charges in amounts ranging from $4,800 to $7,400 withdrawn at various locations.
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FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED
This site map shows the location of a forthcoming day care operation on Old Atlanta Road, outlined in blue. The Forsyth County Commission unanimously approved a rezoning for the property at a formal meeting Oct. 19 .
County Commission approves proposal for day care facility By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — South Forsyth County residents will see a new day care on Old Atlanta Road after the County Commission issued formal approval of the plans. The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning to operate the new day care at a formal meeting Oct. 19. The 1.94-acre property, previously zoned agricultural, is now a neighborhood shopping district to allow for the 10,029-square-foot facility. Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills noted the property has seen a series of rejections since 2004. “I can remember being in the audience then and it being such a big deal,” she said. The site borders the St. Marlo subdivision, which County Commission Chairman Alfred John said has given its blessing for the new plans. The day care will be in John’s District 2. “St. Marlo was very good to work with,” project attorney Ethan Underwood said. “They were very polite, but they were very clear about what they wanted, and they felt this was a good use.”
He said the property has included a storage facility, a fast-food restaurant and an auto body shop in the past. “And so finally, I think we found a good mix for the area,” Underwood said. The Old Atlanta Road location of the day care franchise, Creative World School, will be the second in Georgia following its first in Vinings. The County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the day care Sept. 19. At the meeting, two St. Marlo residents expressed concerns about the rezoning related to potential noise issues and how the sewer line could affect property values. At the planning meeting, Underwood said project staff planned the outdoor playground away from neighboring properties to alleviate noise concerns, and staff also would work to mitigate the effects of the sewer line. In other action at the October meeting, commissioners approved an alcohol license for a package store attached to the Kroger on Bethelview Road. County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the store will be managed by Kroger Atlanta Vice President Michael Servold, who lives in Cherokee County and oversees the Bethelview Road Kroger.
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NEWS
Police step up security for places of worship Israel-Hamas war raises threat levels By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia METRO ATLANTA — Area police departments are beefing up security for places of worship in the wake of the Israel war against Hamas. Hamas, the militant group that launched a surprise attack on Israeli border towns, killed an estimated 1,400 Israelis Oct. 7, and Israel formally declared war soon after. Since then, the health ministry in Gaza reported Oct. 19 that nearly 3,800 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 12,500 have been wounded in Israeli airstrikes. More than 1 million Palestinians have also been displaced. Devastation in Gaza, where 99 percent of the population is Muslim, continues. The death toll of Palestinians rises in the West Bank as well, though it is not controlled by Hamas. The FBI has seen an increase in reports of threats against Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities and institutions, according to an Oct. 18 press release. In recent news out of Joliet, Illinois, a 6-year-
old Palestinian-American boy was stabbed to death by a neighbor because he was Muslim. North Atlanta is not far removed from hate-filled acts. In August, Appen Media reported that antisemitic flyers were spread around Roswell and Milton mere months after similar leaflets were distributed in Dunwoody, which houses the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, and Sandy Springs. While local police departments have logged no rise in criminal activity associated with the war overseas, they are ramping up in preparation. Appen Media contacted more than half a dozen law enforcement agencies, and all said they were stepping up efforts to protect places of worship, though mosques were mentioned as an afterthought in some cases. Backing Israel The Israel-Hamas war has resulted in an outpouring of support for the Israeli government, not just its people. According to a nationwide CNN poll, the majority of Americans surveyed say Israel’s response is justified. At the state level, Gov. Brian Kemp recently purchased $10 million in bonds from Israel to support its war efforts —
what some in the United States have characterized as a genocide and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people, who have fought for freedom against Israeli occupation since they had been forced out by Zionist militias in 1948. Kemp said he would have purchased more than $10 million in bonds, but that it was all the market had available. “It’s just a tragic situation. A tragic, inhuman loss of Israeli lives, and American lives, and other people,” Kemp said. “Our thoughts and prayers are certainly with the people of Israel during this really trying time.” Across north Metro Atlanta, support for Palestinian-Americans and the Muslim community has also largely fallen to the wayside in terms of proclamations, comments from the dais and in other official capacities. But, local police departments have said they are stepping up patrols in places of worship to include both synagogues and mosques, though several did not exclusively name mosques in their initial response. When Appen Media contacted seven police agencies in north Metro Atlanta cities with questions about whether there have been any extra safety precautions because of the war, about half responded with comments exclusively directed at the safety of
their jurisdictions’ Jewish communities. “The Sandy Springs Police Department is working with our Jewish partners throughout the city to make sure they feel safe and that we are providing the best level of service available,” Sandy Springs PIO Sgt. Matthew McGinnis wrote in an email, for example. In a follow-up email, McGinnis said, “We work with all faiths in times like these to ensure the safety of everyone, including the city’s Islamic population.” Police response Follow-up responses from any other PIO, who failed to initially include mosques on their list of patrols but named others, met this trend. Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office PIO Stacie Miller had initially described greater police presence at a synagogue. “Last Friday Congregation Beth Israel held a ‘Night of Unity’ with a candlelight vigil that we had an extra presence at,” Miller wrote in an email. “We do have the synagogue on a frequent patrol. That frequent patrol began the Saturday the conflict began and will continue.” In a follow-up email, Miller confirmed mosques are on the frequent patrol list as
See POLICE, Page 20
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Saturday, Nov. 11th • 9am – 5pm Sunday, Nov. 12th • 10am – 3pm Over 110 vendors with a large variety of unique and beautiful gift items – Jewelry, Wreaths, Pottery, Fine Art, Holiday and Home Décor, Accessories, Knits, Children’s Items, Huge Bake Sale and much more! • Tons of parking • All booths are indoors • Enter our Titan Tidings Raffle to win prizes
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6 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
Domestic battery charges filed against Dunwoody police officer By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
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DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Community Outreach Officer Mark Stevens has been placed on paid administrative leave after his wife reported a pattern of domestic abuse to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Aug. 17. The woman reported the abuse in Cumming, where the Stevens live. While a female officer was not available to speak with the victim at her request, two male deputies at the Forsyth County Main Courthouse in Cumming helped her file a police report Aug. 17, the incident report said. Stevens was arrested Aug. 18 and charged with one count of batteryfamily violence. Interestingly, the incident report is not available to view on Forsyth County’s police-to-citizen dashboard. Stacie Miller, public information officer for the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, said she did not know why the report was unavailable. Miller was able to provide the incident report from Aug. 17 and information related to Stevens’ bond to Appen Media. “His bond was $5,575, and he bonded out on Aug. 21,” Miller wrote in an email. While most of the details in the incident report have been redacted by Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, some general details remain. During an argument the evening of Aug. 16, Stevens accused the victim of cheating on him. The victim left the room after she reported Stevens was intoxicated and wanted to keep arguing. Some 30 minutes later, Stevens allegedly assaulted the victim in their bedroom. The victim reported a pattern of domestic abuse but no sexual abuse.
The victim was told to keep all images and videos documenting the pattern of domestic abuse for investigators, the incident report said. According to the victim, Stevens has abused her since their wedding night about a year ago. Battery is usually a misdemeanor, under Georgia law, but it can be a felony if it is committed against the same victim more than twice. Also, a family violence battery can be a misdemeanor or a felony in Georgia. Stevens has been an employee of the Dunwoody Police Department since 2009 and has no prior record of disciplinary history, according to public records. Sgt. Michael Cheek with Dunwoody Police said Stevens was placed on administrative leave with pay following his arrest. When residents and community members began circulating videos of Stevens celebrating Octoberfest the week of Oct. 9, many questions emerged. For the past 14 years, according to Sgt. Cheek, Stevens has spent his vacation time in Germany for Octoberfest. Sgt. Cheek was able to confirm Oct. 10 to Appen Media that Stevens is currently in Germany. His annual vacation was approved months prior, Sgt. Cheek said. Additionally, Sgt. Cheek said Stevens is not receiving paid administrative leave on vacation. When Stevens returns to the country, he will resume paid administrative leave, Sgt. Cheek said, but he added that he was not able to comment on the ongoing investigation by Dunwoody Police and the Forsyth agency. Information will be made available to the public within 10 days of the investigation concluding.
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Nov.ember 11th, 9am - 5pm November 12th, 10am - 4pm Join us for our 20th year bringing one of the largest indoor arts & crafts festivals to Forsyth County! • Family oriented fun! • Photo opportunities in Santa’s Sleigh
For complete festival information visit our website...
www.SawneeArt.org
• The Elf Corner – where only kids can shop! (All items $1 – $8 and gift wrapping included!)
Photos with Santa
• Festival of Trees Shop: 1ft – 4ft trees full decorated by local artists!
Capture your child’s visit with Santa using your own camera for a $5 donation
• Food Vendors • Local Charities & Organizations • Raffle
FREE ADMISSION This event was sponsored in part by a grant from the Forsyth County Arts Alliance and additional sponsors.
The Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd. GA400 - Exit 13 (RT 141)
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8 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK/PROVIDED
Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry, center, and representatives from Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, the Johns Creek Convention & Visitors Bureau, The Standard Club and Mizuno break ground Oct. 19 on a new Mizuno USA Inc. facility at The Standard in Johns Creek.
Mizuno USA Inc. breaks ground in Johns Creek JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The City of Johns Creek and the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce announced Oct. 19 that sports equipment leader Mizuno USA Inc., has broken ground on a new facility at The Standard Club on Abbotts Bridge Road. The multimillion-dollar facility, called The Foundry, will include a research and development testing center and tour-fit studio. “We enthusiastically welcome Mizuno to Johns Creek,” Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry said. “As a city that is centered on health, wellness, and innovation and also home to some of the best golf in the country, Mizuno’s expertise in golf research and development will be a great fit for our community.” Headquartered in Peachtree Corners, Mizuno USA Inc. is renowned for its expertise in performance golf equipment and for its presence on professional golf tours. The
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I love cats...I’m a crazy cat lady, or I would be. I only have one, but I would be if I could be … it just checked a lot of boxes for me.” SUSAN HAMLIN, owner, The Happy Cat Hotel and Spa Johns Creek 10 | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023
Hotel, spa is new oasis for cats in Johns Creek By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Unlike the average boarding facility, The Happy Cat Hotel and Spa on Medlock Bridge Road offers a luxurious extended stay for area felines. After a career in broadcast and marketing, Pittsburgh native Susan Hamlin said she wanted to pursue something fulfilling. With three children now in high school and a lifelong love of cats, she found Happy Cat through a Facebook ad, a small growing chain with a handful of locations in the Northeast. “I love cats,” she said. “I’m a crazy cat lady, or I would be. I only have one, but I would be if I could be … it just checked a lot of boxes for me.” Hamlin, a Duluth resident, signed the deal to open the first Happy Cat location in Georgia and the South in mid-2022. The boarding facility and spa celebrated its grand opening Oct. 21, and now, Hamlin hopes to provide a one-of-a-kind experience for North Fulton cats. Cats check in to Happy Cat Johns Creek much the same as humans check into luxury hotels. The hotel is appointment-based, where owners select a check-in and check-out time. Each cat has its own private room, though owners can book multiple cats in a single room for an additional fee. Each of the 22 rooms at Happy Cat Johns Creek has a theme,
including “Meowmi,” based on Miami; the “Rocky Meowntain Lodge,” which features Coloradothemed décor; and “Weekend in Purris,” an elegant and pastel space where four -legged guests are joined by their own Eiffel Tower on the wall. The Johns Creek location has an exclusive room, “Catlanta United,” with a special soccer ball chair and a decal of the Atlanta skyline. “There is a reason behind everything that’s in there,” Hamlin said. The business offers boarding for cats while their owners are on vacation, moving, renovating their homes, at work or facing a life event that makes it difficult to care for their pet. No cats are kenneled at Happy Cat Johns Creek. While the rooms vary, most include wall perches, boxes for hiding and beds. If a guest is still anxious after their first night, Hamlin said staff can build a “fort” and cover any windows in the room. “… it really is an oasis,” she said. “I don’t know, I mean, we have so many things in place above and beyond what you see, you know, as far as, like, the care and the cleaning and updates and webcams. And there’s just nothing like it.” Each morning, Happy Cat staff check on all guests to ensure there are no health emergencies. Owners provide contact information for their veterinarians along with updated
See HOTEL, Page 11
PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA
Owner Susan Hamlin visits the “Bonsai Kitty” room Oct. 19 at The Happy Cat Hotel and Spa Johns Creek. The cat hotel celebrated the grand opening of its first Georgia location Oct. 21.
“Catlanta United,” the exclusive room at The Happy Cat Hotel and Spa Johns Creek, includes a cat-sized soccer ball chair Oct. 19. The sporty room borders a window, so guests can watch birds and deer outside while they visit.
AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 11
Hotel:
If you go
Continued from Page 10 vaccination records. The hotel asks owners to provide their cat’s choice of food for their stay. Any treats or special routines are accommodated so the furry guests are less homesick and more comfortable in their transient home. Hamlin said owners receive daily updates and are always welcome to message staff for news on their cat. However, if the owner misses their companion or wants to see how things are going outside of business hours, each room has a webcam that can be accessed 24/7. Some rooms at Happy Cat also border the windows of the business, so guests can look at the world outside. Hamlin said there will also be birdhouses on the windows for the cats’ viewing pleasure. In addition to boarding, Happy Cat Johns Creek offers grooming services. Hamlin said the business hopes to fill the absence of cat groomers in Metro Atlanta, which are typically much harder to find than dog groomers. “But just grooming, everything for dogs, is so prevalent,” Hamlin said. “So, we knew that respect of it was a
The Happy Cat Hotel and Spa Johns Creek is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Suite N at 10360 Medlock Bridge Road. More information on reserving a room and grooming can be found at happycathotel.com/johnscreekga.
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niche, you know, and people are very pet focused.” Happy Cat groomers are certified by the National Cat Groomers Institute, and services are performed without anesthesia. If a cat is ever too uncomfortable to continue, staff works with the owner to determine the next best steps for their client. Happy Cat Johns Creek spa services include the standard cat groom, a bath, blow-dry, ear and eye cleaning and trim for long-haired cats; plush trims; traditional lion cuts; and de-shedding treatments. Each service includes nail trimming, but owners are welcome to book the service without a groom. Regardless of the reason for their stay, all cats at Happy Cat Johns Creek are given VIP treatment.
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12 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
Calendar
OCT. 26 — NOV. 5
‘HAMLET’
What: Presented by Act1 Community Theater, “Hamlet” is Shakespeare’s most popular play. It follows the form of a “revenge tragedy,” in which the hero, Hamlet, seeks vengeance against his father’s murderer, his uncle Claudius, now the king of Denmark. Much of its fascination, however, lies in its uncertainties. When: Oct. 27-28 & Nov. 3-4, times vary Where: Brooke Street Park, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: act1theater.org
HALLOWEEN HIKES
What: At the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s 38th annual Halloween Hikes, visitors can explore nature at night on the paved Wildlife Walk and River Boardwalk trails. The evening will also include glow-in-the-dark games, arts and crafts, face painting, food trucks, s’mores, craft beer, wine and signature cocktails. Tickets must be bought online in advance. When: Friday-Sunday, Oct. 27-29, 6-10 p.m. Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Cost: $25 More info: chattnaturecenter.org
HALLOWEEN TAILGATING
What: The third annual Halloween Tailgating event at Crabapple Market will feature a DJ, costume parade, witches ride on Heritage Walk, trickor-treating at Crabapple Market businesses and a football viewing party. When: Saturday, Oct. 28, 12-7 p.m. Where: The Green at Crabapple Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton More info: crabapplemarketga.com
AN EVENING WITH JOHNS STAMOS
What: In the 32nd edition of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta’s book festival, Johns Stamos will talk about his new memoir, “If You Would Have Told Me.” When: Saturday, Oct. 28, 8 p.m. Where: Marcus Jewish Community Center, 5342 Tilly Road, Dunwoody Cost: $40 to $75 More info: showclix.com/event/johnstamos-memoir
HALLOWEEN TAILGATING
What: The third annual Halloween Tailgating event at Crabapple Market will feature a DJ, costume parade, witches ride on Heritage Walk, trick-ortreating at Crabapple Market businesses and a football viewing party. When: Saturday, Oct. 28, 12-7 p.m. Where: The Green at Crabapple Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton More info: crabapplemarketga.com
NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE OF THE SOUTHEAST
What: Learn about Southeastern Native American culture and history through artifacts and a presentation. When: Sunday, Oct. 29, 2-4 p.m. Where: Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell More info: roswell365.com
‘PERFECT ARRANGEMENT’
What: Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the American gay rights movement, playwright Topher Payne’s madcap classic sitcom-style laughs give way to provocative drama as two “All-American” couples are forced to stare down the closet door. When: Until Oct. 29, times vary Where: Act 3 Productions, 6285-R Roswell Road, Sandy Springs Cost: $19.40 to $23.71 More info: act3prod.org
FACING Y’ALL: INCLUSION THROUGH THE LENS
What: “Facing Y’all” celebrates the
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faces that frame the diversity of today’s South through the lens of its photographers, presenting 29 works by 18 artists. When: Until Oct. 29, business hours Where: Spruill Gallery, 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody More Info: spruillarts.org
LUNCHEON AND FASHION SPOOKTACULAR
What: Altrusa International of North Georgia will host its annual luncheon and fashion show, featuring fashion from Chico’s, White House/Black Market and Flirt. There will also be appetizers, raffles and a silent auction. Ticket proceeds benefit the charities supported by the organization. When: Monday, Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Where: Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Tech, 3410 Ronald Reagan Boulevard, Cumming Cost: $55 More info: altrusaluncheon.ticketleap. com To promote your event, follow these easy steps:
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DIWALI FESTIVAL
What: To celebrate the symbolic meaning of Diwali, a “victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance,” this familyfriendly festival will feature a DJ and performances as well as a variety of food and retail vendors. When: Saturday, Nov. 4, 4-8 p.m. Where: Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov
THE ELEGANT ELF HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
What: This two-day gift market will feature more than 80 carefully selected vendors who offer hand-crafted items, artistic creations and the latest gourmet delights. When: Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 4-5, times vary Where: Sandy Springs Performing Arts & Conference Center, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringssociety.org/ the-elegant-elf
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 13
Book events for November include honoring veterans By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com
During this month of giving thanks, another holiday has captured the collective interest of grateful authors and readers alike. It’s Veterans Day. And, as several nearby November book events illustrate, there is no shortage of titles celebrating stories by, or about, individuals who have served their country. From the Civil War to the Vietnam War, upcoming author talks touch on a range of conflicts, sometimes in very personal detail. Details about those and other upcoming book activities are below.
Thursday, Nov. 2, Ginger Pinholster and Mickey Dubrow. The award-winning authors will chat about Pinholster’s second novel, “Snakes of St. Augustine.” 6:30 p.m. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com Saturday, Nov. 4, Katrina Moore. The author and elementary school teacher will read and sign a selection of her picture books, including the newest, "Sometimes Love.” 11 a.m. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again. com Saturday, Nov. 4, Angela Williams. Williams will personalize copies of her recent release, “Loving Me: After Abuse,” a comforting, candid conversation about working through childhood trauma. Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-2329331. read-it-again.com
PROVIDED
Several local writers with war-themed titles will be discussing their books during author events in November. Tuesday, Nov. 7, “Operation Tailwind: Memoirs of a Secret Battle in a Secret War.” Celebrating Veterans Day, local author and retired Marine Barry Pencek will recall serving as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. 6:30 p.m. Free. Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming. 770-781-9840. forsythpl.org/ event/8834281 Thursday, Nov. 9, A Salute To Our Veterans. Presented by A Novel Idea, Rona Simmons, Jan Slimming, Rita Roberts and Ed Gruber will talk about their war-themed titles and insights, from the Civil War to the Korean War. Copies will be available to purchase at Bookmiser’s table. 7 p.m. Free. Brimstone Restaurant and Tavern, 10595 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta. 770-509-5611. anovelidea.us Saturday, Nov. 11, Bob Dickinson. Book discussion series by the author of “Me,
Jesus, a Beer and a Cigar.” 10 a.m. Free. Sulit Coffee and Wine Bar, 4150 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 120, Alpharetta. 470-395-5163. jeremiahjames.org Saturday, Nov. 11, Clint Hall. The storyteller, speaker and podcast host will sign his debut sci-fi tale, “Steal Fire from the Gods.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again. com Saturday, Nov. 11, Atlanta Authors Series. Rona Simmons returns to honor local veterans by recounting her books, “The Other Veterans of World War II” and “A Gathering of Men,” copies of which Bookmiser will have available for purchase. Free. 2 p.m. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-509-5611. forl.net/ atlanta-authors Sunday, Nov. 12, Paige Watts. The sea-
soned travel writer will detail “What’s With Atlanta?” her guide to some of the most unique aspects of Georgia’s capital city. Free. 4 p.m. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net Friday, Nov. 17-Sunday, Nov. 26, Atlanta Indie Bookshop Crawl. Join Read It Again and over 20 other bookshops for a celebration of indie bookstores. For more information, go to atlantaindiebookshopcrawl. com or Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com Sunday, Nov. 19, Chris Negron. Negron, a Georgia Author of the Year finalist, will sign copies of his new middle-grade release, “Underdog City.” Free. 1 p.m. Posman Books, 4105 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta, 470-509-5727. posmanbooks.com Saturday, Nov. 25, Amy S. Hobbs. The author of “The Bucket List Journey Home: A Story of Hope and Healing” will have a meet-and-greet signing. Noon. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Thursday, Nov. 30, Karen White. Do some holiday shopping during a sip and sign with the New York Times bestselling author. White will personalize books provided by Poe & Company Bookstore. 5 p.m. Free. Cork & Glass, 5670 Atlanta Hwy, Unit A2, Alpharetta. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.
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AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 15
Fraxel & the magic of Microtreatment Brought to You by - Brent Taylor, MD, Premiere Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta Imagine that you are ten years old, returning from recess and running up the stairs with a sharp stick you found on the playground. Your best friend Susie-Lou distracts you. You trip, and the stick pierces your arm. You are upset, but Susie shares her bubble gum, and the school nurse cleans and dresses the injury and makes you feel better. In the months that follow, you develop a scar at the site of the injury. Next, imagine you’re at the pediatrician, and you receive a shot. The same basic circumstance happened. A sharp object pierced your skin. However, in the months that follow, no scar develops where you had the shot. The tiny needle leaves no mark. Why is that? A large injury in normal skin heals with a scar. A tiny injury in normal skin heals with no scar. But now for the twist: What do you imagine will happen if you make a tiny injury in scarred skin? Will it heal back into the same scar that it was before? Will the scar get worse? Or will magic happen? Amazingly, if you pierce a scar with a small enough injury, your body will actually replace some of the damaged scar with normal skin. All this assumes proper sterility and technique, but you read that correctly…. Poke normal skin with a large sharp object and you get a scar. Poke a scar with a small enough sharp object, and you get normal skin. If you just poke a scar with a single small needle, the improvement in the scar will be too small to notice. But what if you could introduce microinjuries on a larger scale? A hundred vaccine needles entering a scar? Well, if you pack those small injuries too closely together, then your body perceives the small injuries as one big injury, and you still get a scar. But if you separate the needle injuries enough in a sterile manner with no complications, then the body will perceive the injuries as separate and distinct and heal in such a way that scar gets replaced with normal skin. This discovery underlies multiple amazing treatments in dermatology. When I was in San Diego at my fellowship at Scripps Clinic, we participated in a collaboration with the naval hospital to treat veterans with burns. Scripps owns a very powerful laser that can cause microscopic burns to be introduced into the skin of patients with very thick burn injuries. The laser beams were “fractionated” – separated into individual beams so that the body perceives them as individual injuries instead of one large injury. Similar to
hundreds of small needles in our thought experiment, these microscopic laser beams enter the skin, create microinjury zones, and replace scars with normal skin. My mentor shared with me that beams must be separate enough that the most scarred tissue that you can hope to replace in any one session is about 5%. More aggressive treatment could actually be counterproductive because some of the beams of light would be too close together and be perceived as one large beam and worsen a scar. But 5% turns out to be enough. Veterans with burns underwent one treatment per month for ten to twenty months. I witnessed patients whose scars tethered their heads to their shoulder gradually gain mobility in their necks as the skin became soft and pliable instead of hard, rope-like and restrictive. These treatments restored not only a more normal appearance but also range of motion and function. Fractionated lasers repair damaged/ wounded skin. Wounded skin can take on many forms such as burns and thick scars from injury but also common damage from a lived life: aesthetic attributes such as discoloration, acne scars, wrinkles, and laxity. All of these are merely visible damaged skin. Fraxel® is a brand of fractionated laser that is an effective solution for many aesthetic concerns. Fraxel® uses small laser beam injuries to replace damaged or aged skin with skin that is healed and improved. Collagen formation, skin tightening, and blemish elimination occurs during wound healing after fractionated laser treatment. The Fraxel® DUAL in our office utilizes a shallow wavelength of light to address superficial cosmetic concerns such as freckles and brown spots while simultaneously using a second wavelength to treat more deeply, reduce wrinkles and assist with skin tightening. For most cosmetic applications, one to three treatments can produce very satisfying aesthetic results. Fractionated laser treatments really are magical. I still marvel at the fact that large injuries scar, but small enough injuries heal. Is Fraxel® right for you? In our practice, Kathryn Filipek, PA-C performs cosmetic treatments including Fraxel®, microneedling, Excel V laser treatments, filler, Botox®, sclerotherapy and more. If you are interested in learning more about these and other exciting treatment options, please call Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. We are a full-service dermatology practice with true expertise in Mohs surgery, general dermatology including skin exams and aesthetic treatments. We hope that you enjoyed this peek into laser technology and fractionation. It is our privilege to take care of you.
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16 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
OPINION
Truist Park magic: Bats turn into linguine Why, oh why, do we let them do this to us every year? I could have read a library full of books. Polluted my mind reading old issues of Mad Magazine. Like the old Statler BrothMIKE TASOS ers sang: “Playing Columnist Solitaire til dawn, with a deck of 51.” Resurrected my old turntable and played vinyl records that skipped and skidded so the sound was nonsensical. All would have been more rewarding than the October letdown we just experienced courtesy of “your” Atlanta Braves, as the announcers and broadcasters drum into our heads, ad nauseum. This is it. I’m not wasting any more ink or brain output. The team plays great all year, wins its division by a mile, then suddenly wooden bats turn into linguine boiled for an hour. Pitchers would have been justified if they pressed assault and battery charges
against the Philadelphia Phillies, the team Atlanta beat eight times in 13 games during the regular season, which it turns out, hardly mattered at all. Wait, of course it mattered. Somebody made lots of dough from all those sellout crowds who bought overpriced lousy food and merchandise. The Phillies hit so may home runs, the lunatic fringe fans in the outfield stands thought they were in a war zone. Souvenir baseballs in the leftcenterfield bleachers for everyone. The Phillies hitters took the Braves out behind the woodshed and wore their butts out. Forget about cutting a switch. The Phils used belts, sticks, motorcycle chains and sent us whimpering and packing. The Braves looked like a bad Little League team. Their displayed behavior was right in line. What else can you call Orlando Arcia sticking his tongue out at the Philadelphia fans? How can you justify Ronald Acuna Jr and Arcia yukking it up in the dugout as the season was being flushed down the crap-
per? Acuna showed how he needs to grow up by brushing past the media, perhaps in a hurry to coach Arcia on the proper way to do a “Nyah, nyah,” complete with fingers wiggling in the ears. Before what would be the last home game of the year, it was a twohour wait to get a plate of nachos at Superica. Ask a server now about some Tex-Mex and you’ll get: “How many tables would you like?” Those who rely on the Braves are looking at a not so Merry Christmas. The team choked on a lump of coal that must’ve been lodged in the players’ throats. And while we’re all gagging, let’s take the manager out behind the woodshed too. Brian Snitker’s idiocy manifested itself in the first game against Philly. How do you justify monkeying with a lineup that obliterated baseballs all year? Did he make out the lineup card by drinking a shot then throwing darts. Now we watch baseball played in cities other than Marietta. I’ll not watch much. I hope justice is served by the Phillies winning it all. They
played hard; a lot harder than us. Those whacko fans probably plotting something really crazy. Human sacrifice wouldn’t be out of their realm. The end of the baseball season here was like seeing flashing blue lights in your rear-view mirror with a friend’s opened beer in the backseat. It was like watching political ninnies filibuster. It was like having to watch the NBA and soccer all day every day. I keep hearing Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad stinging us by singing “Heartbreaker.” That sums up the curtain closing on this season. In order to stuff the coffers before the holiday season, Truist Park will host a Morgen Wallen concert on Nov. 4. My money is betting he will get laryngitis and not be able to hit a note. He’ll be in the right place for that. Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@ gmail.com.
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OPINION
AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 17
Old-time navigation tool helps you see what’s not visible Here’s a question for you: How do you know where to go when you aren’t sure where you are going? Yeah. They say that getting from Point A to Point B can be half the fun, but only if you can STEVE HUDSON find the way. Columnist A friend of mine from years back always made that finding-the-way thing look easy. Even hiking cross-country without benefit of trails, he never got lost. It was uncanny, like he had a GPS unit implanted in his brain, and that was long before GPS was even a thing. He just seemed to know where he was going. He didn’t even carry a compass. That’s a handy skill to have. Me? I’m not so blessed in the area of direction finding. But that’s okay, I tell myself. Sometimes it’s fun just to set out and see what you find – especially if what you find is a previously undiscovered thrift store. A thrift store? Uh huh. She does like thrift stores, you see. So, we keep an eye out for them just to see what we might find. And when we see one? “Want to stop?” she will ask, and I will always say, “Sure!” I have to admit that I kind of liked thrift stores too. Like garage sales, they tease you with the promise of treasures waiting to be found. And who doesn’t like to find treasures? On occasion I’ve found nifty outdoor goodies lurking among the rows of clothing and cast-off kitchen appliances and ten-year-old computer monitors. And I keep hoping that someday I’ll walk into a thrift store and there in front of me will be a dusty cardboard box full of classic handmade bamboo fly rods, all priced at $5 apiece. Heck, if I go on “half-price day” the deal will be even better. That hasn’t happened yet. But it could. I’ve had some smaller triumphs, though. Just the other day, for example, in the thrift store right down the road, what should I happen across but an “orienteering compass.” This compass was designed for navigating crosscountry (see how we outdoor writer types eventually bring everything full circle?) using nothing more than it and a paper map. It was just the thing to help you when you weren’t sure exactly which direction was which. So I bought the compass. I couldn’t let it go. It was a deal at $3, and since this was half-price day it was mine for the paltry sum of only $1.50, no bat-
proach trail gently ascends to its intersection with the loop. Then you have to decide whether to turn left or right.
STEVE HUDSON/APPEN MEDIA
The author checks out the view from the Indian Seats.
teries required. About that I felt pretty good. The compass was in good shape, all things considered, and needed only a new lanyard (can you say “old shoe lace”?) to be good as new. Then I was ready, my new old-school navigational aid worn proudly around my neck. I glanced in the mirror and saw that I looked like one of the really cool hikers, too cool for technology, firmly in tune with tradition. I adjusted my hiking slightly. Man, I was something else. All I needed was somewhere to go. Where indeed? For a while, I’d been hearing about a place called the Indian Seats in Forsyth County’s Sawnee Mountain Preserve over near Cumming. There really are actual seats there, carved into massive outcrops of mountaintop stone ages ago, and legend says that Native Americans used them as comfortable places from which to keep watch over the surrounding terrain. The seats are said to offer one of the very best scenic overlooks in the region, too, and that sounded like something I would like to see. According to Whitman Morgan, outdoor recreation supervisor for Forsyth County, the Indian Seats are not actually on Sawnee Mountain itself. But Booger Mountain? Whatever you call it, you’ll find it easy to hike to the top. Most hikers start at the Sawnee Mountain Preserve Visitor Center parking lot (set your GPS for 4075 Spot Road in Cumming) and start by following the trail to the right of the visitor center. The Indian Seats trail, marked by blue diamond-shaped blazes, is what’s called a lollipop trail ¬– that is, an approach trail (the lollipop’s “stick”) which connects you to a loop trail (the candy). Round-trip in-and-out distance is about four miles or a little less. From the visitor center, the ap-
A lot to see on the way If you go right, you’ll initially enjoy some relatively level hiking that takes you past old gold mine workings as well as another trail access point (the parking area at Bettis Tribble Gap) before turning uphill on its way to the summit. Go left, and the ascent begins right away. Since it’s a loop, either will work. And you’ll have the same elevation change (about 500 feet) either way. I flipped a mental coin and decided to turn left, following the loop more or less clockwise – though with this trail’s many switchbacks and turns, it would be a strange-looking clockface indeed. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow, though stretches can be rooty or rocky (or sometimes both). Strategically placed guideposts are located at several points along the way, helping you keep track of where you are. But who needs guideposts? I’ve got my paper map and my compass! I’m having a good time with that compass, too, keeping track of which direction I’m heading. Do I actually need that info? No, not really; it is a loop trail, after all. But knowing where I’m going is just kind of fun, especially on a trail that changes its compass heading as much as this one does. I see wildlife along the way: many deer, a couple of hawks, myriad other birds, and an abundance of squirrels. One squirrel near the summit appears tame, and a mom and her daughter are having a great time feeding it nuts. What I do not see is dogs, for dogs are not permitted on this trail. Eventually, I reach the top. I see a short spur trail leading to a wooden overlook, and the wind picks up as I climb the steps to see what I might see. I don’t spot any thrift stores in the distance, at least not that I can recognize. But I do encounter a vista that you must see to appreciate. The reports are spot on. This really is one of the most spectacular views around. An interpretive sign helps me identify what I’m seeing. There’s Pine Log Mountain (compass heading 280 degrees). There’s Springer Mountain (compass heading 353 degrees and a bit more than 26 miles away) and Blood Mountain too (39 miles, heading 18 degrees). Just for fun, I check these bearings with my compass. It’s nice to know where things are. Out there somewhere Sometimes the adventure is in what you don’t see. For instance, the sign
tells me that Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, is 39 miles away at a bearing of 23 degrees. It’s not visible from the overlook, being obscured by other features of the landscape. But (I check my compass and sight along the bearing line) it’s there. Right there. Even though I can’t see it, I know that’s where it is. I realize it’s getting late and that I had better get going lest I find myself hiking out in the dark. But first ... and yeah, you knew I would … first I have to check out the Indian Seats. The seats, those three depressions cut into the rock, beg to be sat in. Who am I to refuse? Carefully – very carefully – I ease across some rocks and finally, slowly, settle into the first of the three seats. That’s plenty far for me. And it’s remarkably comfortable. I sit there for a while, enjoying the panorama before me. My vantage point opens up the landscape. I can see far, and clearly, and unforgettably. What’s the official view of folks sitting in the seats? “We urge caution,” notes Whitman Morgan. But it’s impossible to prevent folks from sitting in the seats, he says, adding, “We have yet to have any calls” about people falling. And hear this clearly: the rocks below the seats mean that a fall would not end well. So don’t take chances, and keep an eye on kids. Remember that your safety is your responsibility and yours alone. After a while, I look at my watch and realize that it’s time to head back down the mountain. So, I ease out of the seat and make my way back to the trail. The trail is familiar now and comfortable. I continue clockwise to complete the loop, passing more wildlife and the Bettis Tribble Gap parking area and even another old gold mine. But I don’t linger. The sun is setting. I pick up my pace a little, but it is sure-enough dark by the time I reach the car. It was a good hike, but now I am ready to be home, to share my adventure, to tell her what I have seen. I don’t even need the compass, for now I’ve got faith in the trail. I’ve got confidence it will take me where I want to go. As I make the drive home, I relax in that certain peace, that pleasant restedness, that a good walk in the woods always seems to bring. And then I spot another thrift store. It’s one I’d not noticed before. Again, I think how much she likes to visit them. I must tell her about it. She will want to go.
18 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
OPINION
PAST TENSE
Vintage Halloween happenings featured family fun A Halloween carnival at Dunwoody School on Oct. 30, 1929, was announced in the Atlanta Constitution. The event was planned by the PTA and open to the public. In addition to VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF the carnival, it was a special night for Columnist fathers to visit the schoolhouse. (Atlanta Constitution, Oct. 27, 1929, “Dunwoody Sponsors Halloween Carnival”) A mid-1950s Halloween carnival at Dunwoody School included apple-bobbing, haunted house, fishing game and cakewalk. Richard W. Titus describes the event in his book “Dunwoody Isn’t Bucolic Anymore: Vignettes, Anecdotes and Miscellaneous Ramblings of the 1950s and 1960s.” “More than once we took the farm trailer filled with straw, pulled by the Massey Harris farm tractor and a two wheeled cart drawn by our horse to ride the kids around the (school) yard. Going home in the dark after the Halloween carnival, with the headlights of the tractor illuminating the cart and horse, sometimes we were not sure that automobiles on the road were going to give us sufficient clearance as we progressed at four miles an hour.” Anne and Richard W. Titus, along with children Richard S. and Dan, moved into the Larkin Martin home in 1950. The historic home built around 1840 is the oldest home in Dunwoody. It sat on 8 acres along Roberts Drive in 1950, but today the home has a Glenrich Drive address. The main attraction of Brookhaven School’s 1948 Halloween Carnival was a display of 350 dolls, including bridal, historical and international dolls. There were also dolls representing various age groups. The article does not suggest that the dolls are a haunted or frightening display, although I think plenty of people would find it disturbing today. Castor oil is mentioned as a cure for the stomachache that would follow the day after the carnival. (Atlanta Constitution, Oct. 29, 1948, “Get the Oil, Mom, Celebration’s All Set”) In 1954, Skyland Elementary School in Brookhaven held a Halloween carnival with an added feature. “To keep fathers happy while their wives and children are enjoying carnival events,” two radios were set up to broadcast football games. One radio played the University of Georgia vs. Alabama game and the other broadcast the Georgia Tech vs. Duke game. Knowing the event was in 1954 keeps this in perspective. But what if moms want to hear the game? (Atlanta Constitution, Oct. 27, 1954, “Skyland Carnival to Offer Football
Broadcasts, Too”) There were probably many Halloween carnivals held at these schools and at Hammond School in Sandy Springs. Hammond’s 1941 carnival was reported in the Atlanta newspapers. Each grade presented a performance on the auditorium stage. The carnival, organized by the PTA, included fortune telling, pony rides, country store, fishing game, ice cream and king and queen contest. (Atlanta Journal, Oct. 29, 1941, “Hammond PTA Plans Halloween Carnival”) Halloween gatherings sometimes made the society pages. The society column of the Atlanta Constitution on Oct. 30, 1931, announced that Miss Betty Patterson would give a Halloween party at Brookhaven Club. The ninth-grade class of Brookhaven School held a Halloween party at the home of Miss Helen Millwood that same year. Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
PROVIDED
Above: This 1957 photograph of Dunwoody School 5th graders and teacher Mr. Antley is included in Richard Titus' book, "Dunwoody Isn't Bucolic Anymore." Richard S. Titus is pictured, first row, second from the right.
At left: Richard Titus’ book is full of details, like this 1955 advertisement for the Massey-Harris tractor. This is the type of vehicle he drove along Roberts Drive to Dunwoody School.
OPINION
Dunwoody Crier 10/26/23 Crossword
Several odds and ends about the week’s news I just ran out of razor blades. I got a large box of the twin-blade Gillette Sensor refills as a gift some time ago, and now I’m out. Stores no longer carry them. PAT FOX Razors used to Managing Editor pat@appenmedia.com come with a single double-edged blade seated onto a bulky head. You twisted the handle to secure the blade down to a level that suited you. You can still get single blades. When the twin blade cartridge came along, the whole apparatus was a godsend, slim at the top, easy to maneuver around your chin, on your upper lip. Today, razors wield three, four and even five blades. Leaving aside the obstruction a head that size creates in the mirror, how is it possible to fit something that massive on your upper lip without erasing your nose? I can switch to a disposable twin blade, but there’s a reason they call them “disposable.” Another option might be to order them online, but really? I can grow a beard. It worked for Lincoln. Business as unusual Gov. Brian Kemp announced Oct. 3 that, for the 10th consecutive year, Georgia has been named the No. 1 state for business by Area Development magazine. How could you not know this? It was on every news website in the state. It’s hailed from the rafters every year about this time. I don’t want to trip local economic development agencies halfway through a victory lap, but not all financial publications place Georgia atop the list of best states to do business. CNBC ranks Georgia 4th. Forbes has us at 6th. We’re No. 8 with Precision Global Consulting, U.S. News and World Report ranks the Peach State at No. 14. What gives? For your convenience Tax season is here, and if that isn’t bad enough, consider that county tax collectors now charge a “convenience fee” for payments made through certain channels. Sometimes, not always, E-checks can be used without a fee.
In Fulton County, you pay a 2.5 percent fee for the convenience of paying your taxes with a card. Pick a card, any card. Pay a fee. DeKalb County taxpayers pay a fee of 2.35 percent for using a credit card. If you pay in person with a debit card, you’re still charged a 1.5 percent fee for your convenience. One could bypass the whole thing by paying in person with cash or mailing a check. Or – and I don’t necessarily recommend this – one could move to Gwinnett County. They don’t charge convenience fees for tax payments. The Diving Swan The Andale (Kansas) High School football team did something recently that it hadn’t done in nearly five years. It lost. Andale’s streak of 57 consecutive wins was the longest in the country until the Oct. 13 overtime loss to Cheney High School. I played only my freshman year at Andale. I was big for my age, so I played offensive and defensive tackle – and kicker. I kicked off at the beginning of the game and after we scored. Most times, I could kick it all the way to the 10- or 15-yard line. Not bad for a rookie. We had a play called “The Diving Swan” that was a trick play for an onside kick. I was to trip and fall on my approach to the tee. Then, as I picked myself off the turf amid the laughter of the opponents, my teammate standing next to the tee was to side-kick the ball while we rushed forward for the recovery. Even as a freshman, I thought it was ridiculous, so I intentionally botched things so badly in practice the coaches opted to have someone else fill in whenever The Diving Swan was called. Whew! The only time we ever used the Diving Swan was during a day game in front of the entire student body. When the play was called, I remained safely on the sidelines grinning at the comedy about to unfold on the field. Except, the public address announcer didn’t know that. “Kicking off for Andale, Pat Fox!!” I pulled off my helmet and ran up and down the sidelines waving up at the box, pointing at my jersey number. Too late. The play was already underway, and it was a disaster. We lost the game, and my name was forever attached to that debacle.
PuzzleJunc AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 19
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Solution on next page
20 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
Schools:
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS/PROVIDED
This map shows the final 2024-25 elementary school redistricting lines in Forsyth County. The Board of Education formally approved the map Oct. 17.
Continued from Page 1 The Georgia Department of Transportation estimated annual average daily traffic on Post Road near Vickery Creek elementary and middle schools at 13,500 in 2022. Schools staff previously said the redistricting will divert the same number of students being added on the Post Road route to Campground Road, but Potter held that Campground Road is too small to accommodate additional traffic. The Board of Education acknowledged the speakers’ concerns before the final vote. Board Member Tom Cleveland said the redistricting process has been difficult, but the School Board did everything it could while minding the district’s two priorities of alleviating overcrowding and populating the new Midway Elementary. He said the School Board considered what could be changed to accommodate residents, but Forsyth County Schools must still plan for population growth and an evolving community in the future. “I think there’s some things we have to do for the future, but for this one, we’ve done all we can,” Cleveland said.
Solution A S K S S H A Y P E E L E U R O S E M M A M I E N P R E E M I N E N T A B E D S L A I N A D I T A N Y K N E E E R R A N D E D G E D P A R I L K W A R D M E T S A L M O N S P E L L E D E T E E R E A I T E N O S S T E N C H N O R U S E A N T E S A S W A R M S E N T F L A M I L E T E R R A O I L Y G A Z E T T E E R S R E A R S U R G E E D I T T A G S S O L E E N D S
Police: Continued from Page 4 well. There’s one in Cumming. Dunwoody PIO Sgt. Michael Cheek said police are patrolling the city’s “synagogues and other religious facilities more often as call volume allows.” In a follow-up email, Cheek confirmed that mosques were included in his sentiment and said police were patrolling “all potential targets.” Public information staff in other north Atlanta cities also said police have either increased presence at places of worship
or remained in close contact with local faith leaders, such as in Johns Creek, Roswell and Alpharetta. “The Alpharetta Department of Public Safety is always alert and vigilant to any events; be they local, regional, national, or international; that could influence the safety of our community,” Alpharetta Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard wrote in an email. “The current situation in the Middle East is no exception. We are in close communication with other agencies and local faith leaders and will work in partnership with them to quickly and appropriately address any threats.”
DEATH NOTICES Bobbe Bassett, 90, of Roswell, passed away on October 17, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Judy Burton, 70, of Milton, passed away on October 7, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Tony Bearden, 82, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 10, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
James Crowley, 78, of Sandy Springs, passed away on October 9, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Debra Burbach, 63, of Roswell, passed away on October 8, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Chiara Garthwaite, 91, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 6, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
James Harrison, 80, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 10, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory. Elizabeth Lisbon, 80, of Roswell, passed away on October 13, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Kathleen Rice, 78, of Roswell, passed away on October 17, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory. Vincent Scully, 71, of Roswell, passed away on October 9, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory. Frederick Shepard, 87, of Roswell, passed away on October 14, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 26, 2023 | 21
22 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
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Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306 MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936
Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet. Android tablet free w/oneinternet no matter where you time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892 Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Wesley Financial Group, Installation. Call 866-499-0141 LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 Become a published author. in timeshare debt & fees We want to read your book! cancelled in 2019. Get free Dorrance Publishing trusted info package & learn how since 1920. Consultation, to get rid of your timeshare! production, promotion & Free consultations. Over 450 distribution. Call for free author’s positive reviews. 833-308-1971 guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405
Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234
Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obliga-tion! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707
YOUR BATHROOM. YOUR BATHROOM. YOUR WAY. YOUR WAY. BATHROOM. INAS LITTLE AS YOUR WAY. AS IN AS LITTLE IN AS LITTLE AS
ONE DAY
ONE ONE Waiving All DAY Installation Costs DAY SPECIAL OFFER
866.753.9521 CALL NOW 866.753.9521 866.753.9521 EMAIL PROOF TO:
Cemetery
Pinestraw PINESTRAW, MULCH Delivery/installation available. Firewood available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612
Gutters AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS
Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aaronsgutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 678-508-2432
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Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. Limited time, we’re waiving all installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/31/23 Call 1-844-501-3208
Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual In-surance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844-774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/ads
*Addt’l terms apply. Offer subject CALL NOW to change and vary by dealer. Ends 12/31/23. CALL NOW
CUMMING-30040: GREENLAWN ROSWELL: Bethelview Downs multi-family. Shadwell Court. 2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market Friday 10/27, Saturday 10/28, 9AM-3PM. price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $6000 each! 770-475-7307
Bargain/Furniture
DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866479-1516
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SPECIA OFFER SPECIA OFFER
Waiv Waiv Insta Insta Cost Cost
*Add’l terms to change and *Add’l terms Ends 9/30/23. to change and Ends 9/30/23.
24 | October 26, 2023 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE NOW THROUGH DECEMBER!
Custom Window Treatments | Custom Bed Coverings | Unique Decorative Accessories Eclectic Home Furniture (Name Brands) | Distinctive Area Rugs
25% OFF
Christmas and Accessories
2015
In-Home Design Services Custom Window Treatments
30%-40% OFF Special Orders
2021
2022
Visit My Website at www.PaulMartinInteriors.com 920 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 100, Cumming, GA 30041 | 678-947-4899
2023