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West Forsyth girls repeat as state champs
By ANNABELLE REITER
annabelle@appenmedia.com
CUMMING, Ga. — In the final night of title week at West Forsyth High School, the West girls and Buford boys closed the season strong and secured Division III GHSA championships.
Lambert was on the short end in both games.
The girls fell in a close 10-8 match against Lax Numbers' No. 2 team in the country, West Forsyth. Although the boys had beaten Buford 7-6 earlier this season, the score was reversed in the title game
and the Wolves came out on top.
West Forsyth girls won their second straight Division III championship, the program's second title. They are one of five undefeated teams in Lax Numbers' national Top 10.
Lambert, though, made school history multiple times this season. Their 15-2 regular season record was their best finish in program history. This was also their first title game.
West head coach John Kiefer said he was "elated" to see his team make school history going back-to-back. He credited their ability to withstand two ties to a demanding strength of schedule.
"We play a really tough schedule all year," he said. "We play high-level teams, we're always in tough games."
The Wolverines recorded seven wins over teams ranked in the top 10 in the state, including two against No. 3 Lambert, and four more against top-15 opponents. They also beat five out-of-state teams.
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Commission is considering its sales tax options four years after voters shot down a transportation sales tax.
At a May 12 work session, commissioners said they were considering alternatives to the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, citing its unpopularity with voters. If the county pursues a transportation sales tax, it could appear on November ballots.
Commissioners said they now are particularly interested in exploring the Local Homestead Option Sales Tax, a one-penny sales tax that would fund homestead property-tax relief.
In 2022, 50.19 percent of voters rejected the transportation sales tax, which would have funded dozens of projects around the county. The tax was expected to generate about $231 million for the county.
“I think people are getting fatigued over all the penny here, penny there (taxes). It does add up,” Commissioner Laura Semanson said. “I have concerns that there is not support for this.”
In 2024, Forsyth County voters approved the ninth iteration of a pennysales tax for designated improvement projects. In 2025, voters approved a seventh education sales tax for school facility improvements.
ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA
The West Forsyth girls lacrosse team celebrates winning back-to-back Division III state titles on their home field May 15. They defeated county foe Lambert for the second time this season, 10-8 to win the championship.
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Police charge man for TikTok prank
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Police arrested a man who entered the Sandy Springs Church of Scientology building and sprinted through as part of a TikTok trend, according to authorities.
Jackson Sensing, 20, was arrested May 13. Sandy Springs Police said Sensing unlawfully entered the Church of Scientology at 5395 Roswell Road on April 29.
Sensing was with several other individuals “participating in a social media trend known as ‘Scientology Speedrunning,’” the
department said in a social media post.
“The trend involves individuals unlawfully entering Church of Scientology facilities and recording themselves running through the building to see how far they can make it before being confronted or escorted out by security,” according to police.
Sandy Springs Police said its investigation revealed that Sensing and several unidentified males entered the property without authorization while participating
in the trend.
Sensing is charged with disorderly conduct.
“While some social media challenges may appear harmless online, unlawfully entering private property can lead to criminal charges and create unnecessary safety concerns for everyone involved,” the department said in the post.
The investigation remains ongoing to identify the other individuals involved.
— Dyana Bagby
Police charge suspect in domestic assault case
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs Police arrested a suspect May 13 after an alleged domestic assault at the Glen Lake Apartments.
Dennis Carter, 33, is charged with false imprisonment, simple battery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and reckless conduct, Sgt. Giovanni Gomez, spokesperson for the department, said in a news release.
Authorities investigate reports of elder neglect
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Deputies investigated reports of neglect of two elderly women May 8.
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said an employee with the Georgia Division of Family & Children Services reported the 84-year-old Gainesville woman suffers from a medical condition. The condition was redacted from the deputy’s report.
The employee said the woman is left unattended while her son goes to work, the sheriff’s report stated. The employee said he had serious concerns
Police received a 911 call from a woman at 6831 Glenlake Pkwy. just after 8 a.m. who said she had been assaulted by Carter, the father of her child, Gomez said.
When officers arrived on the scene, they learned Carter had returned to his apartment and barricaded himself inside. As officers approached the apartment, they heard what they believed to be gunshots coming from
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.
about the condition of the woman’s home, adding it smelled strongly of urine and feces.
The incident was classified as a felony cruelty to a person 65 years or older case.
Deputies also investigated a report made by a Northside Hospital Forsyth nurse who said a 90-year-old Suwanee
within the residence, Gomez said.
"Sandy Springs Police negotiators established communication with Mr. Carter and were ultimately able to convince him to surrender peacefully without incident," Gomez said.
The investigation remains active and more charges are possible, he said.
— Dyana Bagby
woman was admitted to the hospital for a fall.
Dried feces was found on the woman, raising concerns she may have been left unattended.
The incident also was classified as a felony cruelty to a person 65 years or older case.
— Jon Wilcox
Elderly meal delivery program experiences increasing need
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Forsyth County program that delivers meals to elderly homebound residents is experiencing rising demand and may require additional funding sources, officials said.
The Meals on Wheels program uses volunteers to deliver meals year-round to county residents 60 and older. The service also does more than feed older residents, Senior Services Director Sharolyn Flemons said.
Meals on Wheels ensures some of the county’s most vulnerable and isolated are not forgotten by giving them social interaction and conducting wellness checks. It also allows the department to tell residents about other resources it provides.
“If someone isn't doing well, they have a relationship with that older adult,” Flemons said. “And, they're able to report back to us that, ‘Hey, something is amiss. Something is not just right. We need to check on this person.’”
Meals on Wheels has seen rising demand in recent years.
Anna Coppock, accountant for Forsyth County Senior Services, estimates requests for meals have increased by
Forsyth County Meals on Wheels
To apply, call 770-781-2178
to speak with a caseworker regarding eligibility.
To volunteer, call 770-781-2178 or email volunteer@forsythco.com.
about 10 percent in the past two years.
“It’s steadily increasing,” Coppock said.
The rise in demand may require the department to soon seek additional state funding, she said. In late April, the program received about $19,000 in state funding.
“We eventually will have to make the case to the state that we need more funds,” she said.
Forsyth County has seen particularly large growth in its aging population in recent years as the county continues to rapidly add residents in all age brackets.
Since 2015, Forsyth County has more than doubled its number of residents older than 60, rising to more than 50,000 in 2024. Residents in that age group now make up more than 18 percent of the population, up from 13.7 percent in 2010.
See MEALS, Page 19
FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED
Volunteers prepare meals for delivery to elderly Forsyth County residents.
U.S. Soccer opens training facility in Fayetteville
By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — U.S. Soccer has a new home in Fayetteville, Georgia. The organization celebrated the ribbon-cutting for its new training facility on May 7, which features 17 soccer fields and indoor facilities.
The facility will be the home base for the national teams, youth programs and other U.S. Soccer teams and activities.
The National Training Center occupies 123 developed acres on a 200-acre site and is designed to accommodate future expansion as soccer continues to grow.
The facility features:
• 17 outdoor playing surfaces, including 13 regulation-size natural grass fields, two artificial turf fields and two sand pitches for beach soccer.
• More than 400,000 square feet of total facilities with two indoor playing surfaces, including an indoor artificial turf training facility and a full-size futsal/ power court.
• Indoor space with a 10,000 square foot gym, 20 locker rooms, 19 meeting rooms and dedicated
• Headquarters space for all U.S. Soccer staff. It also includes a dedicated charging room for power soccer chairs.
U.S. Soccer will host its first event this month at the National Training Center, holding the annual AdaptandThrive Invitational. The Men’s National Team will also train at the facility at the end of the month as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The National Training Center is anchored by a $50 million lead gift from Arthur Blank and a land donation from Dan Cathy.
Alongside the backing of the city of Fayetteville, Fayette County, Georgia, and other partners, their collaboration and commitment will help define the impact and legacy of the National Training Center for years to come, according to a news release.
“The National Training Center represents so much of what we want U.S. Soccer to be,” U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone said. “It honors the people who have built this game over more than a century, and it gives us a home where we can serve the next generation of players, coaches, referees, members and fans.”
She added that the facility was built for U.S. Soccer’s 27 National Teams and the entire soccer community. U.S. Soccer JT Batson said the opening of the facility is an exciting for leap for the sport.
See SOCCER, Page 18
ZOE SEILER/APPEN MEDIA
Bea Perez with Coca-Cola, U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson, Arthur Blank, U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone, and Dan Cathy with Trilith cut the ribbon to celebrate the opening of the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center in Fayetteville, Ga. on May 7.
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Wellstar North Fulton opens OB-GYN center
ROSWELL, Ga. — Wellstar Health System opened a new obstetrics and gynecology practice in Roswell, expanding access to comprehensive women’s health services in North Fulton County.
The clinic is next to the Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center at 4500 Hospital Boulevard in Suite 230.
The Wellstar OB-GYN practice, staffed by Dr. Brianne Anderson and Dr. Jordan Rush, provides a full spectrum of care, including preventive screenings, prenatal services and gynecologic care.
Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center is a Level II Maternal Care Center, providing labor and delivery services, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and breast surgery. The new OB-GYN practice collaborates with the women’s health staff at the medical center to ensure a seamless patient experience throughout the care journey.
— Hannah Yahne
Ladies share love of reading for more than three decades
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — No one ever wants to miss book club, and that’s especially true for the women in the Page Turners Book Club, 30-year member Laura Gordon said.
“I mean we’ve been doing book club before book clubs were really a thing to do,” Carole Siracusa said.
The Page Turners started out of Lawrenceville in 1994 and grew to nearly 20 members at its peak, but it has since been pared down to the same 11 members for the past two decades. The women have moved across the Southeast, but they all prioritize getting together once a month.
“It’s gotten harder since we’ve split up from Lawrenceville,” Jeanne Stern said. “But in some ways, I feel it’s better, because when we do get together now, it’s more of an adventure.”
The women take turns hosting; sometimes they spend a weekend at Gordon’s home in Roswell. Others they’re at members’ homes on Lake Hartwell.
A group of them toured Cumberland Island after reading about self-taught naturalist Carol Ruckdeschel who lived off the land. After reading “Look Homeward Angel,” they visited author Thomas Wolfe’s home in Asheville. Some members took a field trip to the High Museum for an exhibit of “The Girl with the Pearl Earring” in 2013 when the painting traveled to the United States from the Mauritshuis museum in the Netherlands.
If it’s Gordon’s turn to present that month’s book, there’s usually an activity or props tied to the meeting. As a former teacher, she has a knack for designing headbands simulating animal ears or crafting outfits to emulate characters.
In an overfilled binder, Susan Nock keeps track of books the club has read and each member’s corresponding score. The
Everything
earliest pages were typed on a typewriter and are reminiscent of a time the Page Turners sent postcards to schedule meetings. Members rank the book before and after a guided discussion, which can make a big difference at times.
“The beauty of it is that you get out of your comfort zone,” Stern said. “I’m reading things that I never would have thought of reading.”
She said it’s pleasantly surprising to see members come around to a book they were reluctant to read. Members often don’t look forward to the classics like “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” or “East of Eden,” but those tend to spark great conversation.
Some women get lost in the details while others enjoy the journey and character development.
“People kind of fixate on different things…” Gordon said, “and that’s where our discussions become interesting.”
But the Page Turners all pride themselves on a 30-year goal to never repeat authors, and they have yet to do so.
Turning pages in life
After years of raising their kids in the same neighborhood, attending the same Girl Scouts troop or playing tennis together, the Page Turners know they have a special connection, especially thanks to book club.
“My husband is jealous … of the camaraderie, the friendship that we have,” Gordon said. “Our paths would not have crossed otherwise.”
The Page Turners influenced their kids to become passionate readers, largely through the mother-daughter book club they started when the girls were 10 until they graduated high school. In that time, Siracusa said they always learned from one another.
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HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
From left, Carole Siracusa, Jeanne Stern, Susan Nock, Laura Gordon, Patty Sakalik and Lee Ann Gregg, six of the 11 members of the Page Turners Book Club.
Education solutions for every mind, every age
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Eaton Academy offers multiple programs, both in person and online, since a “one size fits all” approach to education is not effective in today’s world.
Academic programs
The full-day K-12 school with its 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio allows instructors to address the individual learning styles of both neuro-typical and neurodiverse students. Through the use of STEAM-related activities and multisensory instruction, students of all abilities achieve academic and personal success. The college-prep curriculum is delivered in a safe, nurturing environment. For students with more significant needs, the Pace Program customizes the curriculum to, not only meet their specific academic needs but also develop life skills and independent living strategies.
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This approach is perfect for students on the spectrum, those with developmental delays, and individuals with other scholastic challenges. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater self-sufficiency and independence, on their way to earning a high school diploma.
The Independent Study Program (ISP), tailored to students’ schedules and academic needs, permits individuals to work at their own pace. The tutorial setting enables students who need a more flexible approach, such as aspiring athletes and performers, to work toward graduation while following their dreams. Some students enroll in ISP to accelerate their scholastic work; others seek academic remediation. ISP arranges the one-to-one sessions on a schedule that accommodates the students’ needs for flexibility in time or delivery. Sessions can be in person or online.
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LEAP is designed to help individuals strengthen their life skills in order to achieve greater independence. Participants benefit from job readiness training at local businesses and life skill develop-
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The LIFE program works with young adults living in their own apartments. Participants meet with a LIFE coach several times each week for support in areas such as meal-prep, budgeting, hygiene, roommate relations, and housekeeping.
Supported Employment prepares young adults for the workplace. Assistance is given with resume writing, applying for positions, and keeping a job. A job coach serves as a liaison between the participant and job sites.
The College Foundations Program (CFP) is designed for individuals who completed high school but are not ready for college or to live on their own. CFP enhances students’ abilities in academics, social settings, independent living, and employment. Students receive onthe-job experience and academic enrichment to enable them to enter college and live independently.
Eaton Academy is the ideal place for families to discover education options and independent living solutions. Whatever students need, Eaton works to create the perfect education solution for them.
Riding the wave… or getting caught in it
Brought to you by – Leah Burnett, Summit Counseling
One of the best times in my personal life I can remember is living in Southern California for a couple of years during graduate school. I was lucky enough to live a 5-minute walk from the beach and the bustling Pacific Ocean. I lived in Huntington Beach, a place very well known to surfers around the world. So, I told myself upon moving there that I would learn to surf. I followed through with my vow and took a lesson.
After a few tries, I was able to stand up and ride a wave with nothing but the water and a thin foam board holding me up. Inevitably there came times when I attempted to stand up knowing I was going to fall right back into the water. I wanted to grow and become stronger, so why not right? The problem is when you go for a 5-foot-tall wave and you’re used to surfing 1–2-foot waves, everything feels 5x faster and more intense… including the crash.
I can remember a time when I paddled my heart out for a “too big” wave. All at once, I found myself paddling over the quickly forming wave as I let it lift me higher until I had no choice but to
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try and stand up. The momentum was too strong, and I couldn’t hold it together. In an instant, I fell straight down the 5-foot wall of rushing water until I was no longer above the wave or deep under it (which is preferable), but I was caught in the middle of it.
If you have never been caught in a crashing Pacific Ocean wave while attached to a surfboard, I can promise you it is nothing short of what can only be compared to being caught in a washing machine set to heavy duty. The only way to get through it is to let it pass. The more you struggle and fight against it, the more tired you will become and the more difficult it will be to swim to safety once it has passed. There is common DBT skill that is used when teaching emotional regula-
tion called “riding the wave”. But I want to take it one step further. Because knowing it will pass is one thing, but choosing to embrace it and allow it to wash over you is another. I like this metaphor of surfing because it reminds us that sometimes we can’t ride the wave perfectly. We get caught in it and it feels like it will never pass. But emotions, while incredibly uncomfortable at times, are not bad. They are simply indicators of some part of us that need care and attention.
Often, the more we struggle and fight against our emotions, the harder it makes it for them to pass. Next time you feel an uncomfortable emotion, I invite you to try and not fight it. But rather be curious about it, sit with it, ask it questions, and trust that it will pass without you having to do anything to force it to go away. Most importantly, give yourself grace for feeling emotion in the first place. Riding the wave can be easier said than done, but just like surfing, you will get better with practice.
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How to protect yourself from title pirates
Brought to you by – Wilson Legal, PC
Dear Reader,
Afraid of quitclaim deed fraud, deed fraud or home title theft? If so, you are not alone. Many of our clients fear these fraudsters sometimes called “title pirates” because they are afraid they will lose their home which often is their most valuable asset. I have good news for you if you fear this type of scam.
The Georgia Superior Court Clerks Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA.org) allows you to sign up for and receive email notifications when any document is filed related to your property. Their notification program is called Filing Activity Notification System or FANS. Simply go to: gsccca.org, type FANS in the search box, click on the top link and you’ll see the description and “Login here” link at the bottom to create your account. This account is available to individuals and to trustees of trusts as well. However, it will not work for real estate owned by an LLC or corporation. If you don’t like using the internet, you
can go to the Superior Court Clerk’s office in the county where the property is located and ask for help. Remember that you already receive a proposed property tax bill in late spring and early summer in Forsyth County and the bill for payment in the fall. If you do not receive one of these bills, it is an indication that you should go online or visit your local clerk’s office to investigate. If you have questions related to protecting your assets, please feel free to contact us at: 770-205-7861.
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Touchmark National Bank introduces to the community, Mason Young
Mason Young is a 23-year-old Auburn University Graduate that brings a strong foundation in relationship driven customer service and financial engagement to the communities of North Fulton, Gwinnett, and the surrounding metro Atlanta areas. He is passionate about helping individuals and businesses navigate their financial goals with confidence and clarity.
Throughout his work, Mason focuses on building meaningful relationships and providing dependable support tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether assisting with everyday banking or flexible commercial lending, he is committed to delivering thoughtful solutions and a high level of service.
With a growing knowledge of the banking industry and a dedication
to continuous improvement, Mason strives to make a positive impact both professionally and within the community. His approachable style and attention to detail make him a trusted resource for those seeking reliable financial guidance.
Dedicated to supporting the success of his clients and the strength of the local economy, Mason is eager to build lasting connections and contribute to the continued growth of the region.
You can reach Mason at 770-8141077 or mason.young@touchmarknb. com
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Housing market hits pause amid economic uncertainty
Inflation, mortgage rates, and gasoline prices have all surged to three-year highs, placing significant pressure on the U.S. housing market and causing real estate activity to slow sharply in recent weeks. Mortgage applications have cooled dramatically, consumer confidence has weakened, and for many Americans the dream of homeownership once again feels like a subscription service nobody can afford.
At first glance, the outlook appears bleak. But beneath the headlines, there are signs this may be less a collapse and more a temporary economic detour driven largely by geopolitical instability.
Club:
Continued from Page 7
Before the escalation of the Persian Gulf conflict on March 10, the housing market was showing meaningful signs of renewed strength. Mortgage rates had briefly moved below the psychologically important 6 percent threshold, mortgage applications during February and early March were outperforming normal seasonal trends, and home sales activity was steadily improving during what is traditionally a slower period of the year. At the same time, gasoline prices were hovering near $2.50 per gallon, and inflation readings had stabilized below 3 percent. In short, consumers were beginning to regain confidence and the housing market responded accordingly.
Then came the geopolitical shock.
Since March, rising energy prices and renewed inflation concerns have driven bond yields and mortgage rates sharply higher. Consumers are now confronting borrowing costs, fuel prices and economic
“I always felt like having the book club emboldened the girls, maybe, to talk about things with us that they might not normally have spoken with us about,” Siracusa said.
Eventually, the Page Turners started sharing other aspects of their lives with one another: divorce, losing their parents and cancer diagnoses.
uncertainty not seen in several years. Add in the normal seasonal distractions of spring break travel, graduations and wedding season; periods that historically slow housing activity even in healthy markets and the recent decline in real estate sales becomes far less surprising.
Wall Street, meanwhile, continues to react to every overseas headline like a guy trying to day-trade espresso shots. One week investors are pricing in recession, the next week they are convinced inflation is immortal. The result has been heightened volatility across both the bond and mortgage markets.
The encouraging reality, however, is that underlying housing demand did not disappear. We saw clear evidence of pent-up demand earlier this year when rates briefly fell below 6 percent. Buyers returned quickly, applications improved, and sales activity strengthened almost immediately. That
“That’s the beauty of the group is we’re there to support each other,” Gordon said. “…I can speak unfiltered about anything and share my thoughts and opinions without judgement.”
Despite different backgrounds and beliefs, they all need the sense of be -
demand is likely still there; simply waiting for economic stability to re-emerge.
Should geopolitical tensions ease and energy markets stabilize, inflation pressures could moderate relatively quickly, allowing mortgage rates to retreat toward pre-March levels. If that occurs, the housing market may rebound faster than many currently expect.
For now, the real estate sector appears less like a market in collapse and more like a market stuck in traffic; frustrated, expensive, and wondering why the warning lights came on all at once.
DC Aiken is Senior Vice President of Lending for CrossCountry Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.
The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC or its affiliates.
longing they feel with the Page Turners.
“After book club, the whole world opened up,” Stern said. “You became way more open-minded about what you are willing to read and what you’re willing to learn.”
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 5, 4 and 5 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!
SOME OLD FOLKS
1. Spiral sea shell. Bird of prey. Scoundrel of old.
2. Brunch choice. Lord’s worker, of yore. Canyon effect.
3. Round Table figure. Mountain pool. Aleutian island.
4. Sunscreen ingredient. Middle Ages goofball. Cut of beef.
5. Antiquated title for woman of distinction. Souped-up car. Hurry.
6. Trick taking card game. Fencing sword. Feudal lord.
7. Lomé’s home. Long standing Hindu mystic. Like Krypton.
Old Folks
1 Spiral sea shell. Bird of prey. Scoundrel of old.
2. Brunch choice. Lord’s worker, of yore. Canyon effect
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 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 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 be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
3. Round Table figure. Mountain pool. Aleutian island
4. Sunscreen ingredient. Middle Ages goofball. Cut of beef.
5. Antiquated title for a woman of distinction Souped-up car. Hurry.
6. Trick taking card game. Fencing sword. Feudal lord 7. Lomé’s home Long standing Hindu mystic. Like krypton.
only be used once in any sequence. How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
Taxes:
Continued from Page 1
The County Commission asked staff to conduct research into the homestead sales tax and other options for a later discussion.
Commissioners also asked staff to research other sales taxes such as the Floating Local Option Sales Tax, which would offer broader property tax relief.
The tax could go into effect at the earliest in 2028. On May 11, Gov. Brian Kemp signed property tax bills that would allow for the homestead relief tax.
Forsyth County already provides a regular homestead exemption, granting an $8,000 reduction to homes' assessed value against
Soccer:
Continued from Page 4
the Maintenance and Operations and the Fire millage rates.
Homeowners 65 and older are eligible for a $16,000 reduction if their household income is below $40,000. They also may be eligible for a full exemption in the school general and school bond taxes.
A floating homestead exemption allows homeowners to offset increases in assessed value for county government and fire taxes unless the millage rate is increased.
While the local homestead option sales tax is designated for property tax relief, additional funds could go into the county’s general fund to pay for operating expenses. Unlike the transportation sales tax, which must be spent on transportation projects, the homestead tax could free up funds, offering more flexibility in the types of projects it
“The National Training Center is the product of a shared vision and deep partnership,” Batson said. “Because of the commitment and hard work of so many, we’ve delivered a world-class facility on time and on budget, ensuring U.S. Soccer is in our new home ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
U.S. Soccer officials, including Women’s National Team Head Coach Emma Hayes, emphasized the importance of feeling at home at the new facility. Currently, teams practice at other professional stadiums across the country.
Hayes is excited for the Women’s National Team to train at the facility. She was involved in the design process to lean into a female lens, with nursing rooms and sleep pods, while also giving the programs room to grow at the center.
“My dream would be to have a female leadership academy here, even within our coach education and across U.S. Soccer, we are working hard to deliver the vision of positioning the female lens at the heart of everything we do, especially at WNT,” Hayes said.
She looks forward to being in a calm, peaceful training environment. The Women’s National Team won’t practice in Georgia ahead of its games in Brazil in June, but the coaching staff is reviewing the schedule to find time for the team to be at the new center over the next 14 months.
“We can put ourselves in our own space, but also come into the main building with staff and players, if we choose to,” Hayes said.
The National Training Center aims
could support.
County Commissioners said they recognize the need for additional transportation project funding, but they also understand opposition many residents have toward growth.
Commission Chairman Alfred John said he recalls the City of Cumming’s opposition to a transportation sales tax in 2022, noting that pursuing the tax again would require additional negotiations and agreements. He said he lacked confidence another transportation tax would be viable with voters.
“The city was quite opposed to TSPLOST, so my question would be why are we putting ourselves in the middle of the highway just to get run over?” he said. “The public sentiment in this election year, and in this climate, is very anti-tax.”
to bring the U.S. Way to life – creating a player-first environment built for performance, accessibility and longterm development that will allow for shared standards and best practices. The center will also provide coaches, players and support staff with access to advanced sports science and performance data.
“Today marks a defining moment, not just for soccer, but for our entire community,” Arthur Blank said. “To see this vision come to life is incredibly powerful. This has been a true team effort, driven by shared belief, partnership and a commitment to growing the beautiful game across our state and throughout the country.”
Beyond the impact on the National Teams, the facility will serve as a powerful catalyst for growth for the entire soccer community in the United States. Atlanta is also slated to gain a professional women’s soccer team in 2028.
“Hopefully, with us being here and having a permanent residency, we too can contribute to this already traditional soccer community,” Hayes said.
Local soccer clubs and teams are excited about U.S. Soccer’s presence in Georgia and hope it will inspire their players.
“Having one of the most important soccer organizations in the country invest directly into our city validates the growth of the game here and reinforces that Atlanta is becoming a true soccer hub in the United States,” said John Downey, chief soccer officer at Inter Atlanta FC. “For our players, it makes the pathway feel more real.”
He added that young players are influenced by what they can see and experience, so having a world-class facility nearby gives them something to aspire to.
during a May 12 work session.
“It creates a stronger connection between grassroots soccer and the highest levels of the game,” Downey said. “The opportunity to see opportunities physically present in Atlanta can have a huge impact on motivation.”
Increased visibility, events and national attention will bring more opportunities to the soccer community in metro Atlanta.
“We believe the long-term effect will be increased participation, stronger player development standards, and even more collaboration across the soccer community as the sport continues to grow at every level,” Downey said.
Neil McNab, executive director of Rush Union Soccer in Dunwoody and Milton, said the facility may not have an impact in the short term, but it is a tremendous step forward in the long term. The facility showcases the growth of soccer in Georgia over the years.
“Having this facility in Georgia will give our community direct access to the best and brightest minds and athletes in the sport,” McNab said. “This can have a lasting impact on how the sport is developed in Georgia that will ultimately impact the quality of the youth experience in our communities.”
He added that the training facility will bring coaching, referee and player development at all levels.
“This will give our players the best people to look up to in all areas of the sport,” McNab said. “Being the home state for U.S. Soccer will have a tremendous impact on the game in all parts of the state and metro Atlanta. We will be the first to trial new initiatives, to take advantage of the expansive network of U.S. Soccer, and have direct access to the resources available.”
Decatur FC, a semi-pro women’s soccer team in Decatur, Georgia, is also happy about the facility and U.S. Soccer moving to Georgia.
“Between Atlanta’s new NWSL team, so many great WPSL teams in the city, and the state’s exceptional youth programming, Atlanta is quickly becoming an epicenter of women’s soccer and very close to having a complete player pathway for young women,” Decatur FC General Manager Joel Gould said.
The Fayette County Youth Soccer League (FCYSL) was involved with the U.S. Soccer facility from the beginning. U.S. Soccer used some of its fields for youth team camps while the training center was under construction. The organization also made improvements to some of Fayette County’s soccer fields and facilities.
“The biggest impact will not so much be in the facility itself, but in the staff who are coming to work there,” FCYSL Board President Bryan McDermott said. “We have already gotten an influx of U.S. Soccer staff members and their kids who are playing and coaching in our leagues.”
The U.S. Soccer facility also offers FCYSL new opportunities, such as scrimmages against youth national teams.
“That will most likely continue,” McDermott said. “Another opportunity came up recently in which adults and kids of certain ages were being asked to help out with referee education videos, which will be filmed at the NTC. Those kinds of opportunities will probably continue.”
He added that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will do more to grow soccer in the state, but U.S. Soccer will help Georgia be at the forefront of innovations in playing, coaching and refereeing.
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA Forsyth County commissioners discuss sales tax options
Lacrosse:
Kiefer said it was evident how much both teams "wanted it" through their resolve. He also gave credit to the Horns and head coach Travis Church.
"[My] girls got a lot of grit, a lot of griminess," Kiefer said. "It's really hard to go back-to-back, and it's really hard to beat a good team twice in a season."
West jumped out to a 4-1 lead after the first quarter. Lambert responded with a 3-1 run — two of those goals from sophomore Madelyn Kate Gersmehl — to close the half.
The third quarter was back-and-forth, with West's Addison Ussery finding the back of the net first.
Lambert senior and Xavier commit Abby Grace Flynt scored her second goal of the game, and sophomore Paige Bamburowski's first of two — assisted by Flynt — tied the game for the first time.
The Horns were never able to grab the lead, but goals from Karsyn Siegert and Kate Barratt knotted it once more at eight apiece. From there, it was all West.
The Wolverines were led by two sophomores who each recorded a hat trick and an assist.
Luca Diehl tallied all three of her goals in the first quarter. Bryce Birkholz, whose assist went to her older sister Bryn, scored the final two goals of the game.
"Our team came together in the end, and we worked so hard this entire season," Bryce said. "We had a game plan coming into the game, and there were only a few hiccups, but we stayed with it. We were just such a team, even through everything."
Earlier this season, Bryce set the school record for single-season goals with 103. She ended the season at 106.
Bryn, a senior who posted two goals in the title game, said it was "amazing" to wrap up her Wolverine career making history on her home field. She reflected on what it meant to play alongside her sister.
Meals:
Continued from Page 3
National nonprofit Meals on Wheels America, which supports local programs around the country, said the trend is hardly unique to Forsyth County.
DIVISION III BOYS: WOLVES 7, LONGHORNS 6
"I have no words," Bryn said. "I trust her so much, and there's just so much love. I'm always learning from her. I couldn't ask for anything more."
The Division III boys title was a rematch of the 2024 championship. The Longhorns were also seeking their second straight title.
Lambert has missed only one championship game since 2011. The powerhouse continues to reload, but injuries struck the
Rising demand and limited funding are overwhelming local programs, leaving many seniors on waitlists.
Currently, federal funding covers about 37 percent of programs, and volunteerism is at its lowest in two decades.
“Without increased funding, the crisis will worsen as the aging population
DEATH NOTICES
Velasco, age 54, of Roswell, GA passed away on May 4, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Horns this season, and it showed in the title game.
Despite beating Buford 7-6 earlier this season on March 20, the Wolves flipped the script in the championship and handed the Horns their second loss of the year.
Lambert never led in the championship, even after cutting the deficit to one goal at the break. The Horns struggled to secure possessions at the dot and to get shots on target.
Sophomore Brody Powell poured in three goals, junior Jake Johnson scored two, and sophomore Myles Harden added one in the loss.
grows,” Meals on Wheels America said.
Flemons said she considers the program a vital service for residents, who may otherwise have few options.
“Those that we serve, they depend on our services,” she said. “And if we were not there providing that assistance, a lot would go without. So, we're filling that gap.”
Jose Velasquez Garcia, age 72, of Roswell, GA passed away on May 8, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Luis
KENNY GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY/PROVIDED
Lambert sophomore Brody Powell, right, looks for a pass while advancing the ball at West Forsyth High School May 15. In a rematch of the 2024 championship, Buford again prevailed 7-6, although the Horns had beaten the Wolves 7-6 earlier this season.
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Sawnee EMC is seeking a Coordinator, General Accounting to oversee and supervise the Bookkeeping and General Accounting staff. This position will verify, allocate, and post details of business transactions, authorize, and execute cash/wire transfers for payments; assist in creating reports, analyzing ledger accounts, and maintaining subsidiary records. Requires: a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field, and a minimum of seven (7) years related experience and/or training in an accounting/ bookkeeping to include a minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a supervisor or manager in a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, May 22, 2026 . Apply online: www. sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 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.
Operations Specialist (Alpharetta, GA) sought by Milton NY Pizza Inc. Will oversee daily operational activities to ensure efficiency & service quality; manage inventory & supply chain processes to maintain optimal stock levels & coord w/ suppliers for timely, cost-effective procurement; supv personnel by handling scheduling, performance oversight, & team coord’n to foster a productive work environment; implmt & refine operational procedures to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, & improve customer satisfaction; & analyze business performance data to identify trends, streamline operations, & support strategic decision-making. 24 Months of exp in the job or in a managerial role overseeing business operations is reqd. Send resume to Gokhan Karakollukcu, President, 980 Birmingham Rd, Ste 200, Alpharetta, GA 30004.
Logistics Assistant Manager needed in Duluth, GA: Send resume to HL Logistics America Corporation, 4200 Northpark Dr., Oplelika, AL 36801.
Midway Preschool is looking for an experienced Young 5’s/Prek teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Contact Beth at beth@midwayumc.org.
Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk III –Customer Service to assist in a high-volume call center. Requires high school diploma or equivalency, computer, communication, and general office skills. Requires one (1) year experience in a customer service call center or service-type organization, utility, finance, banking, or equivalent industry. Bilingual is preferred, fluent in English and Spanish (written and verbal).
Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings, weekends and holidays.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5PM, May 29, 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.
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Sr. Manager – Project Mgmt. Job location: Alpharetta, GA. Duties: Resp. for mngng implement. of end-to-end dlvry in SAP S/4 HANA finance modules implmntg BRIM, O2C & SAP success factors. Manage full lifecycle SAP S/4 HANA implement. & transform. projs using Agile & Hybrid methodologies. Monitor risk mgmt.. & fin perfrmnc using BRIM & Order to Cash (O2C) processes. Supervise & mentor proj. mgrs., consultants & dlvry teams. Participate in presales activities incl. proposal dvlp. & client presentations. Reqs: Bach.’s deg (or frgn equiv.) in Comp. Sci., Eng. or rltd field & 5 yrs. exp. in job offered or 5 yrs. exp. as a Consultant or Proj Mgr. Concurrent exp. must incl.: 5 yrs. exp. mngng implement. in SAP S/4 HANA finance modules; & 5 yrs. exp. w/ BRIM & Order to Cash (O2C) processes. Send resume (no calls) to: Nikia London, Acuiti Labs, Inc., 8000 Avalon Blvd., Ste. 100, Alpharetta, GA 30009.
SCM Group North America, Inc. - Sales Area Manager (Duluth, GA): Prospect new business development and maintain existing accounts; Support dealer relationships and distributor sales efforts and training distributors on SCM’s products. Role requires up to 75% domestic travel and 10% international travel. Position permits remote work up to 5 days per week throughout the U.S. Mail resume to: SCM Group North America, Inc., Attn: Amanda McKisson - 2475 Satellite Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096. Reference job # RM12136.
SOFTWARE ENGINEERS: Cumming, GA & various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S.: Dsgn & impl highly sclbl dstrbtd sw & rbst data sys that process lrg vlms of strctrd & unstrctrd data. Archt end-to-end prcsng wrkflws inclu ingstn, trnsfrmtn, vldtn, strg & srvng layers & dvlp backend srvcs & APIs. Mdl cmplx datasets u/advncd SQL & data engg tchnqs & apply sttstcl & ML mthds. Bld data-drvn feats lvrgng applied AI. Invstgt rlblty issues thru rca & impl long-term solns to trnslt ambgs rqmts into sclbl, mntnbl tech dsgns suprt biz-crtcl pltfrms. Master’s in Sci, Tech, or Engg (any) is req’d. Mail CV: HR, Jobly Solutions, LLC., itservices@joblysolutions.com.
Mortgage Loan Officers sought by Crosscountry Mortgage, LLC for a pos based in Alpharetta, GA. Must have four yrs as a mortgage loan officer, assistant mortgage loan officer, or rltd; or bachelor’s deg in biz mgmt, finance (or rltd). Duties incl: Assist ind & families w/ meeting the reqs for mortgage loan approval by obtaining info such as income & asset docs; Prep & submit loans for underwriting & processing. Must have exp w/ Encompass, Desktop Underwriting & Loan Prod Advisor. Must have valid state of Georgia Annual Mortgage Loan Originator License. Send resumes to: jason.redman@ccm.com.
Senior Quality Assurance needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA to be responsible for the performance of all functions involved in quality assurance and test execution for new and existing applications and interfaces. Apply at http://att. jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-108280.
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