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Sheriff’s Office keeps up with growing demands ► PAGE 3

J a n u a r y 1 , 2 0 2 6 | 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 3 0 , N o . 1

A LOOK AHEAD

Focus remains on enhancing quality of life for Cumming

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Forsyth County commissioners hear a presentation on changes to the Unified Development Code during a Nov. 6 meeting.

FORSYTH IN 2025 County acts to get a grip on growth By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County pressed pause on residential growth in 2025 with a sweeping freeze on rezonings amid fears of rampant population growth and a strain on services. In May, the County Commission enacted a 180day moratorium on rezonings for residential projects. The moratorium was extended an additional 180 days in November.

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The action followed an alarm sounded by the Forsyth County School Board, which called for a reduction in high-density residential development and an increase in commercial growth. “Growth continues at a steady pace across the county and City of Cumming, placing increasing strain on the capacity of the Forsyth County School District,” the board said in an April proclamation.

matters.

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SCREENSHOT

Forsyth County resident Lindsay McCarthy asked the County Commission to approve a pause on residential development, citing increased traffic and development at a May 15 meeting.

2025 was a fastmoving year and it is hard to believe we now stand on the verge of a brandnew year. I would first like to express my gratitude to the residents of the City TROY BRUMBALOW of Cumming who Cumming Mayor again put their faith in me to serve another four-year-term as their mayor. I was humbled and honored to run unopposed in November, and I look forward to serving my neighbors throughout my third term beginning in January. Anyone who knows me knows that I have a heart to serve individuals with disabilities and their families. As this population is often overlooked and underserved in American society, it has been my hope to do what I can as Mayor of the City of Cumming to help this population as much as possible. This past year, I was honored to begin a new initiative called the Cumming Mayor’s Disability Council. Through this council, it is my hope to better connect individuals with physical or mental disabilities and their families to the resources available to them in our community.

See BRUMBALOW, Page 12

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2 | January 1, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

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

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Woman sleeping in car faces felony drug charge

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FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 58-year-old Cleveland, Ga., woman was arrested on drug charges Dec. 13. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched to Sally Lane after suspicious activity was reported. A caller said a woman was asleep in a vehicle parked behind his mother-in-law’s home. Deputies spoke to the woman, who provided a driver’s license for a woman who had a Lumpkin County warrant charging her with failure to appear, the sheriff’s report said. Deputies contacted the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, which said it believed the woman was deceased. Lumpkin County deputies said they had found an obituary. When they again questioned the Cleveland woman, Forsyth County deputies said she admitted to giving a false name. The woman was arrested, and a search of her person revealed a baggie of suspected methamphetamine, the sheriff’s office said. The woman was charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor giving a false name. — Jon Wilcox

Deputies arrest woman for drug possession FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 51-year-old Locust Grove woman was arrested on drug and intoxicated driving charges Dec. 14. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched to Keith Bridge Road after the woman called. The woman initially declined to provide a reason for her call. Deputies spoke to the woman and

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PUBLIC SAFETY arrested her on a driving under the influence charge. A search of her vehicle found suspected methamphetamine on the floorboard, the sheriff’s report stated. The substance allegedly was found to be methamphetamine after a test was conducted. The woman was arrested on felony possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor driving under the influence of drugs. — Jon Wilcox

Clothing reported stolen from sporting goods store ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Almost $1,400 worth of clothing was reported stolen from a sports supply store Dec. 4. Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to the North Point Parkway business about 6:30 p.m. An Alpharetta woman representing the store said two women had shoplifted items at about 5:10 p.m. The store representative reported the women selected clothing, took it to a dressing room before leaving without paying, police said. The door alarm sounded as they left. Officers viewed a security camera recording of the alleged theft. The items reported stolen include children’s clothing, such as rainwear and jackets and fleece tops. The items were valued at a total of about $1,400. The incident was classified as a felony theft by shoplifting of more than $500. — Jon Wilcox

Police officers respond to burglary in progress ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell police are investigating an attempted burglary Dec. 15 at the Creekside at Mansell townhomes after residents reported men in masks using a crowbar to break in. When they arrived at the residence, officers said they found the rear sliding door had been tampered with and its handle broken off, disabling it. Officers said they held the perimeter of the residence until the Criminal

Investigations Division arrived. One of two people renting the townhome when the robbery occurred, a 33-year-old Roswell woman, said she heard “a noise like trash cans were moving” around 6:50 a.m. When she and her husband looked out the window, she said they saw two masked men using a crowbar to break into the townhome. The couple provided officers with a description of their attire. At some point, the victim said she and her husband lost sight of the men and were not certain of their location. Officers found no one matching the suspects’ descriptions in the vicinity of the townhome. Later, officers said they found a crowbar next to an open shed door, but the building appeared to have been left unlocked. It’s not known whether anything was stolen from the residence. The report does not identify any suspects. — Hayden Sumlin

Police probe break-in reported at law office ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A South Main Street law office was reportedly burglarized, an attorney reported Dec. 5. Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to the office after receiving an email from the 62-year-old Alpharetta woman. Police previously took a similar report of a criminal trespass Dec. 2. In that report, police said a person entered the building through a window and spent the night on a couch in the foyer. The attorney told police she suspected a person had again entered through a window, noting a piece was removed from it. The woman also noted a table had been overturned, and a bathroom smelled of cigarettes. The office does not allow smoking. Police said both break-ins appear to have occurred when there was rain. The incident was classified as a felony burglary of a business. — Jon Wilcox

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OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | January 1, 2026 | 3

A LOOK AHEAD

Sheriff’s Office maintains edge on criminal activity The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office enters 2026 as the third-largest full-service sheriff's office in Georgia. While Forsyth County is the eighthlargest Georgia county, the FCSO RON FREEMAN has full law enforceForsyth County Sheriff ment responsibility for nearly 300,000 residents here, with only one municipality, Cumming. The new year brings new challenges as the Sheriff’s Office has assumed control of the Pet Adoption and Resource Center (PARC), which includes the animal shelter and animal control; as well as the Park Rangers who protect our lake and recreational parks. We are excited to see the improvements at the PARC and our robust growth of how we best care for our vulnerable animals. Crime rates in Forsyth remain the lowest in the metropolitan Atlanta region, a distinction held for the past decade. Crime rates today are lower than a decade ago, but technology and transient criminals challenge us at every turn. FCSO continues to see repeat offenders from metro areas attempting to commit crimes in Forsyth. Many of these offenders have multiple felony arrest in other jurisdictions but remain free for reasons that boggle the mind. I am happy to report that unlike some areas, the criminal justice system in Forsyth County is exactly as it should be, fair to all concerned but holding criminals found guilty accountable for their actions.

Our Real Time Crime Center continues to be instrumental in keeping Forsyth safe and has helped resolve hundreds of crimes through the use of technology. As criminals get more advanced and crimes such as financial scams continue to rise, the specialty investigative units of the FCSO become even more vital to keeping our citizens safe. Our Hi-Tech Crime, Financial Crime and Computer Forensic units continue to locate and hold criminals accountable who mistakenly thought they could hide behind a keyboard. Our School Resource Officer unit now has 61 deputies assigned with every school staffed by one or more SROs, and the unit has dedicated drug and explosive detection dogs, as well as juvenile detectives who investigate all school threats. The Sheriff’s Office enters 2026 with a vacancy rate under 3 percent and over 100 active applicants seeking employment. This is a rarity for larger law enforcement agencies. We continue to work closely with Forsyth County government on planning for safety for any new developments and working together to ensure that we are properly equipped and staffed to Keep Forsyth Safe. Finally, as sheriff, I would like to thank our citizens. Safety doesn’t happen in a vacuum, it takes citizens and law enforcement working together to keep Forsyth the place we want to live, work and raise our families, and our citizens are incredible. Remember this, “crime will rise to the level a community tolerates,” and as long as I’m your sheriff, I won’t tolerate crime here.

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OPINION

4 | January 1, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

A LOOK AHEAD

Housing is not a side issue; It’s community infrastructure By KATHY SWAHN, NANCY DIAMOND, JACK MURPHY North Fulton Improvement Network Executive Team In North Fulton, housing is often framed as a debate about density or neighborhood character. That framing misses the point. Housing isn’t a niche issue or a political talking point — it’s the infrastructure that determines whether our communities can function. Jobs, schools, traffic, aging in place and economic competitiveness all run through housing. When working families, teachers, nurses and young professionals can’t afford to live near where they work, the consequences ripple outward. Commutes get longer. Schools lose enrollment and stability. Employers struggle to hire. Seniors are forced to move away from the communities they helped build. That’s why the North Fulton Improvement Network exists. Not to push ideology or specific projects, but to connect dots that are too often discussed in isolation. Financial stability in a community doesn’t happen by accident. It requires shared information, coordinated leadership and the willingness to plan ahead rather than react in crisis. This past year marked a turning point. Housing conversations in North Fulton have moved from awareness to influence. The language, data and framing around workforce housing are now showing up in public meetings, planning documents and even local elections. That shift matters. It signals that housing is no longer being discussed fearfully or abstractly, but thoughtfully and pragmatically. One reason is timing. Long-term decisions about housing are shaped upstream, in comprehensive plans, long before individual rezoning requests ever reach city councils.

Affordable housing continues to be a serious issue across North Metro Atlanta. Groups like the North Fulton Improvement Network are trying to help, and Appen Media is dedicated to covering the process. Send ideas, questions and feedback to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

When housing choices are considered early — alongside schools, transportation, and economic development — communities gain real options. That’s how “missing middle” housing moves from a buzzword to a tool. Another reason is education. Housing debates often fail because people don’t understand the tradeoffs. When residents can see how accessory dwelling units, duplexes or cottage courts actually look — and how they fit into existing neighborhoods — fear subsides. Clarity lowers the temperature. Visuals and shared data help people evaluate solutions on their merits rather than assumptions. The data is sending clear signals. School enrollment is declining across parts of North Fulton, not because families don’t value education, but because many can no longer afford to stay. Teachers commute long distances. Employers report hiring delays. These aren’t abstract warnings; they’re indicators of a system under strain. Progress also depends on convening the full system. Real housing solutions require more than good intentions — they require capital, policy alignment and implementation capacity. When lenders, employers, school systems, nonprofits and local governments are in the same room, the conversation shifts from “why this is hard” to “what can work now.” Incremental solutions won’t solve everything, but they can move the needle.

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Just as important are lived experiences. Housing policy isn’t theoretical to families choosing between rent and childcare, or to seniors trying to remain in their homes. Grounding policy discussions in real stories keeps solutions tethered to reality and values. Encouragingly, voters are beginning to ask better questions. In local elections, housing is increasingly connected to quality of life rather than framed as a threat. Success isn’t about who wins an election; it’s about raising expectations for informed leadership and honest planning. The next year will be telling. Real progress looks like housing options clearly reflected in comprehensive plans, continued alignment across agencies and sectors, and public conversations that are informed rather than reactive. Residents have a role to play. Look at the local housing market through the lens of area median income. How many move-in-ready homes are realistically available? What kinds of rentals exist for families? Then show up — to planning meetings, workshops and public discussions. Read your city’s comprehensive plan and ask questions. There is no quick fix. That’s what makes this work hard — and necessary. The path forward starts with listening, learning and sharing information. North Fulton doesn’t need to agree on everything. But we do need to move past reflexive “no” and toward solutions we can agree will keep our communities strong. Housing isn’t a side issue. It’s the foundation beneath everything else. Kathy Swahn, Nancy Diamond and Jack Murphy are members of North Fulton Improvement Network. Learn more at www.improvenorthfulton.org.

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Rising costs for insurance could spur legislation By TY TAGAMI Capitol Beat ATLANTA — Like just about everything, the cost of insurance has been rising, fueling frustration that state leaders say they want to address. Policy holders complain of expensive insurance that does not pay out as promised. At the same time, insurers see an unattractive market in Georgia. Georgia ranked 50th in profitability for insurance companies last year among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, said Robert Hoyt of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Hoyt, speaking at the final hearing last week of a committee of lawmakers concerned about insurance costs, said low profits can drive insurers from the market, reducing competition. Profits were down 8.7% in the state versus 7.8% average gains nationally, he said. That kind of imbalance encourages companies to take their business elsewhere. “Less availability can lead to higher prices,” he said. The House of Representatives’ BlueRibbon Study Committee on Insurance Rates met for a final time in Gwinnett County on Thursday after holding hearings in Atlanta, Savannah and Macon. Despite the discouraging statistics from last year, the lawmakers heard some positive news. Three companies recently announced reductions in their auto policy premiums, according to state Insurance Commissioner John King. Safeco Insurance Company of Illinois is cutting rates 5.1%, Safeco Insurance Company of Indiana is reducing them 4.9% and Liberty Mutual Personal Insurance Company is lowering rates by 5.7%. King attributed the reductions to the state’s anti-fraud efforts and to the “lawsuit abuse reforms” lawmakers adopted earlier this year, a reference to tort law changes that were a priority for Gov. Brian Kemp during the last legislative session. The legislation passed largely along party lines, with Democrats arguing it shielded insurers from liability and denied claimants adequate legal redress. Lawmakers on the House committee heard complaints about insurers who refused to pay claims because, the critics said, state laws did not hold them to account. “Insurance companies expect policyholders to pay their bills on time,

every time,” said a woman who sued her insurer after months of battling over repair costs from a fallen tree. “When it’s their turn to pay, there are often no real consequences for delay or denial.” Auto repair companies talked of insurers who refused to pay the full cost to repair cars to manufacturers’ standards. They shared stories about owners who fought insurers for months and finally paid out of pocket, desperate to get their vehicles back. “The insurance company will drag their feet,” said Frankie Johnson, owner of Styles Auto Care in Cartersville. He said his customers had shared hundreds of their email threads with insurers that illustrated their predicament. Companies want to delay the repair process, he said, “hoping that everyone will just give up.” Johnson sized up the situation: “The current rights of the consumer are not much.” There were similar stories about tactics in medical care. Rachael Auyer, of the Georgia Society of Orthotists and Prosthetists, had a client who lost her leg below the knee in an automobile collision. An avid marathoner, the 39-year-old teacher was denied a running prosthesis, Auyer said, because it was not deemed medically necessary. Auyer said the Rome woman, a special education teacher, also had to hop to the bathroom because the insurer did not deem a shower prosthesis to be medically necessary. “Physicians don’t determine medical necessity,” Auyer said, “insurance companies do.” Rep. Matt Reeves, R-Duluth, chaired the study committee. He said in an interview that lawmakers will be scrutinizing prices, profits and the way claims are processed. Reeves, who serves as vice chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said the state needs to review its fines for insurance companies that act in bad faith to ensure penalties are significant enough to deter misbehavior. Insurance affordability will likely inspire legislation during the legislative session that starts in January, he said. “I think it’ll be a robust session on insurance.” This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

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Resort-style living comes to life in Canton with more on the way in Gwinnett

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Designed with the same attention to detail and luxury standards, Soleil Summit Chase will offer resort-inspired amenities, elegant one-level homes, and spaces designed to foster community and connection. The location provides easy access to major corridors, healthcare, downtown Snellville, shopping, and dining—making it an ideal choice for buyers looking to stay close to family while enjoying a lockand-leave lifestyle. As Gwinnett County continues to grow and attract residents seeking quality of life and convenience, Soleil Summit Chase is poised to become a standout destination for luxury activeadult living. With sales under way at both communities, Patrick Malloy Communities is continuing its mission to redefine 55+ living across metro Atlanta.

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | January 1, 2026 | 7

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ Luxury Collection presents four exceptional luxury homes Brought to you by – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ Luxury Collection represents the finest in residential real estate across Georgia. From expansive gated estates to historic or pastoral charm, each of the following homes offers a distinctive lifestyle defined by architectural excellence, premium amenities, and sought-after locations. 811 Hawks Nest Court | Ball Ground | $6,000,000 Set on eight landscaped acres within the prestigious Hawks Ridge Golf Course community, this extraordinary 20,000+ square foot European-inspired estate offers unmatched privacy and resort-style living. A gated entry opens to a circular motor court providing access to the main residence, a five-car garage, a guest cottage, and a professional-grade private recording studio. Inside, soaring ceilings, travertine floors, and rich architectural details create a timeless and elegant atmosphere. The recently renovated gourmet kitchen features Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, Thermador and Sub-Zero appliances, and generous space for entertaining. The nearly 3,000-square-foot main level primary suite overlooks the pool and fairways and includes dual walk-in closets, a spa-like bath, and an adjoining wood-paneled office. Outdoor living is equally impressive with a multi-level resort pool, elevated spa, water slide, multiple outdoor kitchens, and private tennis and basketball courts. The terrace level is designed for entertainment with a theater, custom bar, gym, and guest suites, completing this truly one-of-akind estate. Listed by: Todd Kroupa 770.910.4860 15794 Thompson Road | Milton | $3,299,000 Thompson Manor is a newly built luxury estate set on 1.83 acres in the heart of Milton, offering the rare advantage of no HOA. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the home is thoughtfully designed for both everyday comfort and elevated entertaining. The main level showcases a striking two-story foyer, a private office, and a spacious open-concept living area centered around a chef-inspired kitchen with custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, a waterfall island, and a premium Thermador appliance suite. Folding glass doors lead to a covered porch with a fireplace and grilling area overlooking wooded surroundings. The main-level owner’s suite includes a spa-

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style bath and a custom walk-in closet with integrated laundry. Additional highlights include a full in-law suite with private entrance, multiple laundry rooms, EV-ready garages, and an unfinished terrace level ready for customization-all just minutes from Alpharetta, Crabapple, and top-rated schools. Listed by: The Butler/Swayne Team 770.241.9165 82 Wood Place | Roswell | $2,795,000 This custom-built home offers a rare chance to enjoy life just steps from Canton Street in the heart of historic downtown Roswell. Designed with warmth and sophistication, the residence features wide-plank walnut floors, exposed wood beams, and a light-filled open floor plan ideal for both entertaining and everyday living. The gourmet kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing Thermador and Sub-Zero appliances, a massive marble island, handcrafted range hood, and a hidden walk-in pantry. The main-level primary suite is a private retreat with beamed ceilings, heated bathroom floors, and custom walk-in closets. Multiple outdoor living spaces, including screened-in

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

The most dangerous place for seniors Brought to you by – Bath and Kitchen Galleria

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Happy New Year. New you? Not this year — New house Brought to you by – Peachtree Town & Country We won’t completely conform to the clichés of “new year, new you,” but maybe this January’s resolution isn’t about hitting the gym. Maybe it’s about preparing yourself — or your family — for your next move. Buying or selling a home isn’t as simple as signing up for the fitness studio down the street. It requires intention, preparation, and the right guidance. As we step into a new year, a few of our Founding Advisors are sharing their most important insights to help you begin the journey with confidence. First: Identify why you’re moving Before browsing listings, take a step back and define your motivation. Are you moving for a specific school district, a new neighborhood, more space — or less? Founding Advisor Gina Campbell often reminds her clients: “Homes matter — but lifestyle matters more. Explore your next neighborhood like a local. Truly imagine your day-to-day life: commutes, grocery runs, schools, and weekends.” That clarity becomes your compass throughout the process. Next: Get financially prepared (early) Even if you’re still in the “just looking” phase, financial preparation

gives you leverage. Speak with a trusted lender, understand your comfortable monthly payment, get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified), and factor in taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and ongoing maintenance. As Founding Advisor Alex Egan of Peachtree Town & Country’s Buckhead office notes: “Buyers who prepare financially early are able to move quickly — and confidently — when the right opportunity comes to market.” Finally: Find the right advisor At Peachtree Town & Country, we pride ourselves on a hyperlocal, advisor-driven approach. Our advisors live, work, and specialize in their neighborhoods — understanding not just the homes, but the nuances that define long-term value. As Kristi Flannagan, Director of Marketing, explains: “Our Advisors know micromarkets — not just zip codes — speaking to a home’s long-term value, offering honest feedback (even when it’s hard), and treating every purchase as both a lifestyle decision and a strategic investment.” The best buyers aren’t rushed — they’re prepared. If a move is truly on your horizon, approach this January with intention and allow a Peachtree Town & Country Advisor to serve as your accountability partner for a thoughtful, confident 2026 resolution.

The bathroom, a place we take for granted, transforms into one of the most hazardous areas in the home for aging seniors. With slippery surfaces, high tub walls, and the need for frequent maneuvering, the risk of falls—the leading cause of injury among older adults—spikes dramatically. John Hogan, President of Bath and Kitchen Galleria and Aging in Place Expert says, “Proactive bathroom modifications are not merely an upgrade; they are an essential investment in the long-term safety, independence, and dignity of our seniors.” To mitigate the dangers, several specific aspects of the bathroom should be modified to create a supportive and accessible environment: Shower and Bathtub: The single greatest fall risk is often stepping over a high tub wall. The ideal solution is a curbless or low-threshold walk-in shower to eliminate this barrier entirely. For added security, install a permanent shower seat or bench and a handheld showerhead to allow for comfortable, seated bathing. Shower floor should have non-slip tile surfaces. Grab Bars: Strategically placed sturdy, professional-grade grab bars are critical. They must be securely anchored into wall studs, not just

the drywall. Placement is key: near the toilet to assist with sitting and standing, and both inside and just outside the shower/tub for secure entry and exit. Modern grab bars come in a variety of stylish finishes to seamlessly blend with your décor. Toilet Area: A standard toilet can be difficult to use for those with limited mobility. Installing a comfort-height or raised toilet seat reduces the strain on joints and makes the transition from sitting to standing much easier. Pairing this with well-placed grab bars provides a significant boost in stability. Flooring and Lighting: Replace slippery tile or remove loose bathmats and throw rugs, which are tripping hazards. Install slip-resistant flooring throughout the bathroom. Finally, good lighting is paramount. Bright, even lighting—including motion-sensor nightlights—helps seniors navigate safely, especially during middle-of-thenight trips. By implementing these thoughtful changes, the bathroom can evolve from a high-risk area into a secure, comfortable, and accessible space that supports an aging senior’s desire to age in place safely at home. For more information visit Bath and Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta (no appointment needed) or call them at 678-459-2292.

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12 | January 1, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

OPINION

Alpharetta brightens with analog Christmas We arrived at Nordstrom Rack out near the mall – Friday rush hour. The traffic actually wasn’t as bad as I expected – especially five days before Christmas in Alpharetta. Lastminute gifts and one return. Christina and RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus I did remarkably well ray@appenmedia.com in retrospect. She tried on coats. We looked at sunglasses and shawls. Uggs seemed like a possibility. We couldn’t find a good blanket. I kept eyeing the line at the return desk as we continued our search. Shouldn’t we do that return first before we try to find those last minutes – while the line at the return desk was relatively short? My anxiety grew minute by minute. You can do this, Ray. My pulse quickened. The line kept growing. In the end however, my worry was not justified; the return was easy-peasy – a walk in the proverbial park. Bueller? One of the reasons we did well in Nordstrom’s was because we weren’t in a hurry – for a change. We needed to wait for dark anyway, because our next stop after Nordstrom’s was the third weekend of the December “Lights on the Alpha Loop” event. This last weekend was a “bring your

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Thousands visited the Alpha Loop in Alpharetta for a weekend Lights on the Loop festival Dec. 12 and 13. pup with you” theme – and one might have thought a scaled-down version of the Westminster Dog Show on a linear park in the woods, only filled with holiday lights and decoration. The prior weekend was a live “holiday music showcase,” and the first weekend theme was “health & wellness.” All three events took place over three weekends on Alpharetta’s new – still in progress – Alpha Loop, which will ultimately be an 11-mile, 12-foot-wide paved walking trail/linear park around the city, through the woods, in a tunnel, and over an amazing bridge spanning a lowlying flood plain. We had to wait for dark because the Loop was lighted –- a showcase of holiday lights, murals, and art adorning a 1-mile stretch of the Loop. Think a holiday drive through area subdivisions in search of the best of the season’s holiday decorations on homes, but instead of in the car, touring on foot, through towering hundredyear-old-growth trees and accompanied by thousands of your best friends and

Brumbalow: Continued from Page 1 So far, we have held several Disability Council Meetings and launched a website (cummingmayorsdisabilitycouncil. com), a Facebook page and group, and started an email list for individuals interested in the council. I am very happy to now have Councilwoman Susie Charles-Carr onboard helping with a lot of the legwork of the Disability Council. Councilwoman Charles-Carr recently created and distributed a survey to individuals who had attended meetings and signed up for our email list. With guidance from the survey results, we hope to begin a more focused approach to creating specific goals and forming committees that can help us reach those goals. Our next Disability Council Meeting will be held on Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. on the third floor of Cumming City

neighbors over the course of the days and hours. The free event, the lighting, the themes, the easy-peasy parking for all off Haynes Bridge behind Northwinds, the music, the modest number of food trucks and vendors, the security (in the background), the on-site Loop “ambassadors,” all courtesy of The Alpha Loop Foundation – or “a group of around a dozen community volunteers/activists who worked for the past six months on the event – folks like you and me, with an interest in creating something free, magical, meaningful, thoughtful, and people-centric engagement.” And who else stepped up and put up the money, labor, and time to create the “Lights on the Loop” for you? Businesses and individuals located right in our community: • Alpharetta Business Association • Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau • Alpharetta Development Authority Hall (100 Main Street). The meeting is open to everyone. 2025 was also a great year for the Cumming City Center. We’re thrilled to soon open the new Cumming Police Department and Municipal Court at City Center. This modern, two-story building is much needed as the current Cumming PD and Municipal Court building is almost 50 years old. The new 16,385 square-foot facility will provide our Police Department and Municipal Court with the space they need inside a stateof-the-art facility. We anticipate opening this new building sometime in first quarter of 2026. After many inquiries from the public wishing for us to add a residential component to the City Center, we are working with developers to create our first residential area: The Garden District at City Center. Offering both single-family residences and townhomes, The Garden District will be located just a short walk from Cumming City Center’s shops,

• Appen Media • Avalon • Betty Goss • Booster • Deposco • Eclipse di Luna • Evans General Contractors • Four State • HOME Luxury Real Estate Allison Kloster • HOME Luxury Real Estate Rony Ghelerter • Illuminating Designs • Jackson Healthcare • Leslie Kurtz • Lincoln- Angela Krause • Lincoln Property Management • Meer Electric • Portman Holdings • Providence Group • TPA • Trinity Partners – Third & Urban • True North 400 • Village Tavern And it’s OK if you patronize these good actors or even give them a high five “thanks” when you run into them. I’m sure they will all step up again for next December’s “Lights on the Loop 2026” so you can schedule time together now – time with your family and neighbors, not in a hurry, not on screens, outside, talking, walking, strolling, laughing, smiling, listening, watching and being social on The Alpha Loop. See you there, for an analog Christmas time together next year. (Of course, the Loop is open 365 as well. For more information on The Alpha Loop or how to volunteer or participate, contact info@alphaloopfoundation.org or just go to the website Alphaloopfoundation. org) restaurants, coworking spaces and nightlife. Besides these new additions, the City Center continues to bring vibrant life to the City of Cumming with its ongoing concerts, festivals, Cumming Famers Markets, seasonal pop-up markets, cruise-in car shows, outdoor livestreams of sporting events, family movie nights, dog-themed events, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and more! And of course, the City Center tenant businesses continue to be the lifeblood of the facility, offering locally owned and operated boutiques, restaurants, salons, coworking spaces, and more! If you haven’t yet visited the Cumming City Center, I encourage you to check out @cummingcitycenter on Facebook and Instagram, or go to cummingcitycenter.com, to see all the City Center has to offer and plan your visit soon. Yes, 2025 was a fantastic year, and I believe 2026 will be even better for our community!

Puzzles

er 1/1/26 Connect-It

PuzzleJunction.com

Connect-It

Each line in the puzzle below has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 6, 4 and 4 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

Forsyth Herald...............................................January 1, 2026 | 13

BY THE SEA 1. Sea between Greece and Turkey. Casino game. Cozy spot. 2. One-pot meal. Sea between Israel and Jordan. Oz bigshot. 3. Adhesive. Follower of Mary. Sea between Alaska and Siberia. 4. Kind of button. Sea NE of Australia. Jockey’s whip. 5. Hate. Shrinking Asian sea. Napoleon exile site. 6. Sea between Great Britain and Ireland. Exploding star. Safe place. 7. Snake speak. Witches’ assembly. PuzzleJunction.com Sea of the Orkney Islands..

2 3 4 5 6

1/1/26 Sudoku7

By the Sea How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is

1. between Greece and Turkey. game.letter Cozy spot. giving you the correct number of letters for each the Sea first letter of the second answer, and so on.Casino The connecting is outlined,

answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually must contain the numbers to line. 9. bebox for the second or third answer in 1that it? Good luck! and 3. Adhesive. Follower of Mary. Sea Got between Alaska 2.ToOne-pot between Israel and Jordan. Oz bigshot. solve themeal. SudokuSea puzzle, each row, column and Siberia.

4. Kind of button. Sea NE of Australia. Jockey’s whip.

5 2 3

5. Hate. Shrinking Asian sea. Napoleon exile site.

6. Sea between Great Britain and Ireland. Exploding star. Safe place.

7. Snake speak. Witches’ assembly. Sea of the Orkney Islands.

5 1

8 3

6 9 7 1 6 8 2 4 9

4 5 3 8 6

How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Solution 4 9 8 2 5 3 6 1 7

1 3 2 6 7 9 8 5 4

5 6 7 4 8 1 9 2 3

2 8 1 5 4 7 3 6 9

3 4 9 1 2 6 7 8 5

6 7 5 3 9 8 1 4 2

9 2 6 8 3 5 4 7 1

7 1 4 9 6 2 5 3 8

8 5 3 7 1 4 2 9 6

How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. The rules are easy: A number above the diagonal line in a black square is the sum of the white squares to the right of it. A number below the diagonal line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

Dunwoody Crier 1/1/26 Crossword

Across

1 LaBeouf of Transformers 5 Treat in a shell 8 Pavarotti solo 12 Line dance 14 Inlet 15 ___-pointe (ballet) 16 Like some buckets 17 Pizzeria ﬁxture 18 Obliterates 19 Rendezvous 20 Car dealer’s offering 22 Erie Canal mule 23 Hero type 25 Concert ﬁnale 27 One-spots 31 Perry’s creator 33 Fender blemish 34 Coarse jute fabric 36 Smithy’s tool 38 Greek letter 40 Many and different 44 Passé 46 Moon of Neptune 47 Palmist, e.g. 49 Hide well 51 Cravings 52 Amulets 54 Nonexistent 56 Chicken order 57 Melodies 59 Atmospheres 64 Paella pot 66 Red vegetable 67 Like krypton 68 Allege as fact

PuzzleJunction.com

23 27

39 44 47

52 56

46 50

51 55 59 67

40 45

69 Son of Aphrodite 70 Chain of hills 71 Etta of the comics 72 Director Howard 73 Tugboat sound Down 1 Highlander 2 Icy coating 3 Jet black 4 Many moons 5 Short story? 6 Eye layer 7 Uptight 8 Wood-shaping tool

9 Sanity 10 Bestow 11 Seating request 13 Pro’s foe 14 Amber or umber 21 Salad green 24 Train stop 26 Stew vegetable 27 Playwright Burrows 28 Recipe measurement 29 Hosp. areas 30 Pitcher’s pitch 32 Armageddon 35 Scares 37 Floor covering 39 Snout

41 Sandpiper 42 Sermon subject 43 Asner and Begley 45 Castle area 47 Put on hold 48 Young raptor 50 Corrodes 52 Flowing outer garment 53 Judicious 55 Hideout 58 Handel opera 60 Condo division 61 Make over 62 Jason’s ship 63 “Let it stand” 65 Frick collection

See puzzle solutions on Page 15

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14 | January 1, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

Full-time Sawnee EMC is seeking a Dispatcher with electric utility experience to dispatch workers for customer service, normal maintenance, or emergency repairs to electric-power transmission and distribution lines. Requires high school diploma or equivalency, minimum of one (1) year working knowledge of radio operation, or equivalent experience, map reading and line design knowledge, problem solving and communication skills by radio, telephone and in person. Must be available for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends. Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, January 2, 2026. Apply online: www.sawnee. coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-8872363 extension 7568. Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace. Sawnee EMC is seeking an Electrical Distribution System Engineer. Requires a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, civil engineering or similar engineering discipline. Preferred experience in design, modeling and maintenance of distribution power systems. Must have strong computer, mathematical and communication skills. Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, January 9, 2026. Apply online: www.sawnee. coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-8872363 extension 7568. Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

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Donor Operations Supervisor The Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) The Donor Operations Supervisor manages the donation door process and delegates tasks to staff, volunteers, and community service workers. As the face of NFCC, they provide excellent customer service while greeting donors and ensuring donations are properly removed from vehicles and sorted in designated areas. They are responsible for maintaining the security of merchandise and keeping all areas clean and organized. The Supervisor must be able to lift up to 75lb frequently and be on their feet most of their shift. They must enjoy staying busy, training and influencing other to work as a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Must have the ability to work Tuesday through Saturday 9am – 5pm. An extraordinary Total Rewards Package is included with this opportunity! If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Lead Data Engineer, UKG Kronos Systems, LLC, Alpharetta, Georgia Responsible for designing & developing Business Intelligence components of our enterprise-level data warehouse systems using Cognos Business Intelligence (BI) framework. Will perform technical design, development, maintenance & enhancement of data reporting solutions, balancing optimization considerations with usability & supportability while leveraging existing objects and strategic technologies. Req: MS degree (or equiv foreign degree) in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering & 1 yr. pre- or post-MS degree experience as Business Intelligence Analyst. Psn. requires rotating 24x7 production support – avrg of 7-10 days/mo. Hybrid psn: 3 dys/wk in Alpharetta, GA office, 2 dys/wk at home office. Review full job descr. & reqs. & apply at https://www.ukg.com/careers under “Lead Data Engineer” (REF: LEADD016880) Recruitment Consultant: Source, Screen, Interview & evaluate candidate, Experience with ATS & VMS, client jobs Recruitment using Monster, CB, Indeed, Dice, LinkedIn recruiter account, Work with different payroll basis including W2, C2C & 1099, Full Life-cycle recruitment. Reqs 5 yrs experience in above duties. Salary-$92144. Mail resumes to Team success LLC DBA HiEd success ,5445 McGinnis Village Pls, Ste 106, Alpharetta, GA 30005.

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Review: Continued from Page 1 School enrollment has increased by at least 30 percent since 2015, rising to about 55,000 students in 2025. The increase in school enrollment mirrors a similar trend in the county’s population, which has experienced explosive growth over the past 15 years. Since 2010, Forsyth County has added about 105,000 residents, an almost 66 percent increase. The county currently has a population of about 280,000 residents. In 2024, the County Commission began applying the brakes by raising impact fees for residential construction, tripling the assessment for single-family and multi-family homes and raising the fees by more than 800 percent for mobile home parks.

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Officials have said new residents infringement of landowners’ rights. they will tell you rampant growth and are attracted to Forsyth County by “No one is saying this board cannot traffic are the most pressing issues in good schools and safe communities. make a zoning decision,” he said. their lives.” When county officials considered “What this moratorium would do, and Commissioner Mendy Moore said the moratoriumCrier in May, residents she supported the moratorium as a PuzzleJunction.com Sudoku what everyone is asking you to do, is 1/1/26 Dunwoody turned out in droves to the we want you to take away property way of protecting residents’ interests, commission chambers in support. owners’ rights to even petition the rather than those of developers. Many said slowing the county’s government.” “The No. 1 thing that they have an explosive growth should be a priority. State law requires moratoriums issue with is the pace of our growth,” South Forsyth County resident to be enacted only in emergency she said. “The pace and the density of anddevelopment in our county has far columnthe each row, said puzzle, solve the Sudoku Tocircumstances, Brenda Diaz said residents have which Underwood 1 to 9. theinnumbers repeatedly asked on social media for were not present the county. exceeded our ability to manage it. Our contain must box the county to slow growth. “Everyone says, well I’m stuck in roads are gridlocked, and our schools “There are hundreds and hundreds traffic. Well, respectfully, I live here are full.” of people who have been here for a too. That is not an emergency,” he Following the decision in May, long time, longer than me, and they said. commissioners have reviewed changes all are saying, ‘Please, please do Commissioners, including to the Unified Development Code as something about this. This is crazy. Chairman Alfred John, say they have a means to better govern growth. This is just too fast,’” she said. repeatedly heard from constituents Officials said the pause is intended Others said roadways were already who have named growth as their No. to allow breathing room to make the choked with traffic and worried the 1 issue. changes. problem could worsen unless action “I have been hearing from residents The amendments include widening was taken. in my district about the crowded landscaping buffers and increasing Critics of the freeze, such as land hallways in schools as well as the minimum lot sizes, updates to the use attorney Ethan Underwood, traffic issues,” John said at the May tree ordinance and design standard said they worry it may represent an meeting. “If you ask most residents …, changes.

5 2 3

5 1

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Solution

Connect-It Solution

SOLUTIONS

A R I A N U T S H I A D E M I C O V E C O N G A Z A P S O V E N O A K E N S A L L E A S E T R Y S T E N C O R E I D O L D E N T E R L E A C E S A N V I L B U R L A P D I V E R S E E P S I L O N N E R E I D D A T E D Y E N S B U R Y S E E R N U L L C H A R M S A U R A S S O N G S L E G I N E R T B E E T O L L A R I D G E E R O S A V E R T O O T R O N K E T T

1 A E G E A N O O K E N O

2 S T E W I Z A R D E A D 3 L A M B E R I N G L U E 4 C R O P A N I C O R A L 5 A R A L O A T H E L B A 6 I R I S H A V E N O V A 7 C O V E N O R T H I S S

4 9 8 2 5 3 6 1 7

1 3 2 6 7 9 8 5 4

5 6 7 4 8 1 9 2 3

2 8 1 5 4 7 3 6 9

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