Issuu

ELECTION PREVIEW

State House Districts 25, 26 & 100 ► PAGE 4, 6

O c t o b e r 1 5 , 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 . 4 2

Forsyth resident launches podcast about vision loss By KATHERINE DAVIS newsroom@appenmedia.com CUMMING, Ga. — For people living with vision loss, everyday life can become isolating. Charity Roach, a Cumming resident who has spent decades living with vision loss, hopes to change that through her new podcast, “Central Vision Podcast.” Roach co-hosts the weekly podcast with Austin Linton, who has Usher syndrome, a condition that includes vision loss and congenital hearing loss. Together, they discuss topics ranging from mental health to parenting. Roach also hopes to bring that same sense of connection to Forsyth County by organizing a community group for visually impaired residents. Roach was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic condition that gradually affects peripheral vision, in her early 20s. At that time, she still had about 40 to 50 degrees of vision. Today, she has just 3 to 4 degrees of central vision remaining, which inspired the podcast’s name.

See PODCAST, Page 18 Visitors to the Cumming Country Fair and Festival ride a thrill ride Oct. 9.

PHOTOS BY JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Rides, fried food and family time fill the Cumming fair By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com CUMMING, Ga. — Each year, the Grantham family finishes their visit to the Cumming Country Fair and Festival with a tradition. “We take the same picture here every year, over with the Ferris wheel in the background,”

ROI

Ashley Grantham said. Their first photo was taken seven years ago. In it, their oldest son is wearing firefighter boots and sitting on his father Peter Grantham’s shoulders. “That was the first picture,” Ashley said. “He was tiny.”

matters.

See FAIR, Page 18

KATHERINE DAVIS/APPEN MEDIA

Families walk through the Cumming Country Fair and Festival Oct. 9.

Charity Roach poses for a portrait in her home studio in Cumming, Georgia, on Monday, Oct. 5, 2026. Roach, with her co-host Austin Linton, launched a podast in August about living with visual impairment.

Partner with Appen Local Media: Local: Print | Websites | Email Newsletters | Podcasts Use the power of trusted local to grow your business. APPEN Marketing: 770-442-3278 Advertising@AppenMedia.com

2 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

COMMUNITY

770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com 319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT NEWS TIPS Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com. LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance. ADVERTISING For information about advertising in the Forsyth Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278. CIRCULATION To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Forsyth County will debut its new Thrive Center Oct. 15.

FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED

County to cut ribbon on therapeutic recreation hub By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is preparing to debut a recreational therapy hub following a large-scale renovation of the former Charles Place Senior Services Center. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Oct. 15 for the new Thrive Center at 595 Dahlonega St. It will feature remarks from elected officials, county staffers and community leaders. The center will serve as

a base of operations for the county’s therapeutic recreation division. Family activities open to the public will follow the event. The center will serve as a hub for programs designed to “provide meaningful opportunities for individuals with varying abilities to build skills, form connections and enjoy recreation in supportive settings,” the county said. Funding for the $744,000 renovation was provided from the capital outlay budget.

The project renovated interior activity areas, program spaces and offices for therapeutic recreation staff. Outdoor enhancements include new landscaping and a sport court designed for half-court basketball and pickleball. Parks and Recreation Director Kirk Franz said participation in the county’s therapeutic recreation programs has grown 40% since the division was introduced in 2018. “This is an exciting milestone for our department and for the participants and families we serve,” he said.

Is Your Company Hiring? Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 3

This Is What Legacy Looks Like. A N E W S TA N D A R D I N R E A L E S TAT E H A S A R R I V E D ARMONT Real Estate is built on a shared belief in something better. Exceptional agents, a high performance culture and a lasting legacy of excellence.

JENNIFER BIENSTOCK

SUSAN BIHR

FOUNDING PARTNER

KRISTIN SHEEHAN

MELANIE SNARE

FOUNDING PARTNER | CREATIVE DIRECTOR

FOUNDING PARTNER

REBECCA DUNCAN FOUNDING PARTNER

BECKY SUID

FOUNDING PARTNER

ANDREA CUENY

CO-FOUNDER | TEAM LEADER

CATHERINE EDWARDS

MADISON GOLDEN

NICOLE MCALUNEY

JODY TIRONE

ALLISON WALDRIP

TAMMY WEAVER

FOUNDING PARTNER

RHONDA HARAN

CO-FOUNDER | MANAGING BROKER

FOUNDING PARTNER

MYRANDA MCGINN FOUNDING PARTNER

ASHLYN HAYES

MARKETING COORDINATOR

ANGELA MILLER

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

1 1 1 7 5 C I C E R O D R I V E B L D G 2 0 0 , S U I T E 1 0 0 A L P H A R E T TA G A 3 0 0 2 2  7 7 0 . 4 1 5 . M O N T  A R M O N T R E . C O M

NEWS

4 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

NOV. 3 ELECTION PREVIEW

State House District 25 By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com District 25 in the Georgia House of Representatives covers parts of north Fulton County and extends into southeast Forsyth County. Republican Todd Jones is running for re-election. While serving, Jones has worked to keep law enforcement funded and supports reducing the state’s income tax to zero. According to Jones’ website, he is fighting for “shared conservative values at the state capitol to protect Georgia's status as the #1 place to raise a family, to do business, and watch our children succeed.” To learn more about Jones, visit jonesfor.us. Democrat Elaine Padgett is challenging Jones for the seat. A nurse for 30 years, Padgett has worked at Grady Hospital and other hospitals across metro Atlanta. She serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in the foster care system, and as a board member and nurse volunteer with the Forsyth Community Clinic. Padgett supports establishing a three-term limit for the Georgia House of

DRIVEWAYS & CONCRETE

Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs

$250 OFF

Mention ad for $250 Off. New Driveway. Cannot combine coupons.

BBB A+ Rating

ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC. 678-250-4546 | FREE QUOTES • Landscaping Residential & Commercial • Tree Services • Sprikler Systems • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch • Over 25 Years of Experience • Many Local References • Fair Prices for Professional Work • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch • Reliable, Punctual, Honest

State House District 26 Representatives and wants to introduce ethics bills prohibiting elected officials from holding financial stakes in companies that bid on or possess state government contracts. To learn more about Padgett’s campaign, visit elaineforgeorgia.com. The Nov. 3 election Advance voting for the election runs Oct. 13-30. To see a list of early voting locations, visit: forsythco.com/government/departments/voter-registrations-elections/ advance-voting-in-person/

CONCRETE

Driveways • Patios • Walls • More McKemey concrete $250 OFF* Any job $2500 or more

Competitive Pricing Many Local References

addiction in his community. McDonald wants to expand district and state programs to combat growth in drugrelated crimes and educate families on the effects of the opioid crisis. To learn more about McDonald’s campaign, visit votelaurenmcdonald. com. Meredith Greene is the Democratic candidate for District 26 and passionate about mental health supports, women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, DEI, quality education for all, healthcare access, fiscal responsibility and animal welfare. To learn about Greene’s candidacy, visit meredithforgeorgia.com. ATTENTION - Double check ad for ALL content. Phone, web, address, coupons, etc. Assume nothing Reply back that ad is approved once ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY.

DRIVEWAYS

NEW or REPAIR and Patios • Slabs • Walls Sidewalks • Pool Decks McKemey concrete $250 OFF

Any job $2500 or more

Bobby Albritton

Master Licensed Electrician Bobby Albritton

Residential & Commercial Services Master Licensed Electrician

CallResidential for a FREE Estimate &

404-519-8635 Commercial Services bgalbritton@live.com

Many Local References

10% OFF

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

Any job $500 or more.

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

Ask for Dave McKemey

678-648-2010 | FREE QUOTES

678-506-0006 | FREE QUOTES

ROOF REPAIR & REPLACE

Fruit Trees NOT Producing Fruit?

STOP LEAKS

Serving North Atlanta Since 1983. Affordable Quality Roofing. Based in Roswell.

98 • Tree Removal • Tree Pruning • Stump Grinding

• Full Insured • Free Mulch • Emergency 24/7

$150 OFF

$200 Leak Repairs or 10% OFF New Roof *Offer expires 10 days after publication

770-450-8188 | FREE QUOTES

Fruit Tree Pruning Fruit Tree Planting  Soil Care



$200 leak repair. Up to 8 penetrations. (1-story house, up to 7/12 pitch). Some restrictions apply

jobs $1500 or more

770-771-5432 | FREE QUOTES

Georgia House District 26 includes areas south of Cumming, part of the city itself, and stretches north along Lake Lanier. Republican incumbent Lauren McDonald, III is running for reelection and describes himself as a “loyal defender” of the Second Amendment. He wants to protect the district’s water resources as the technology corridor expands up Georgia 400 and fight for more proactive transportation and infrastructure solutions. After spending 22 years as a firefighter and EMT, McDonald has seen young adults struggle with

770-284-3123 | FREE QUOTES

Specialized Fruit Tree Prunning and Care

bloom and fruit

bloomandfruit.net

info@bloomandfruit.com

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 5

STORE CLOSING l a n Fi eks! We

Going Out Of Business

60-75% OFF Entire Store!

Over 1,000 Rugs in Stock! All Sizes and Colors!

A few examples of our Going Out of Business prices: 13x20 hand-knotted rug 100% wool – $9,850 now $1,250 11x16 hand-knotted rug 100% wool – $7,500 now $1,050 8.5x11.5 antique heriz – $11,500 now $2,500 – 5 available 5x8 woven – $1,000 now $175 – 30 available 3x5 old 100% wool – $1,200 now $175 – 20 available Runners in all different sizes, colors, and qualities – 150 available Big selection of 10x14, 12x15, 12x18 and larger.

Store Closing Means Unbeatable Savings.

Thousand plus rugs are available in all sizes, colors, and styles new and antiques from all over the world with unbelievable prices. This is your opportunity to purchase premium rugs at some of the lowest prices we’ve ever offered. These savings are only available while inventory lasts, so don’t wait to find the perfect rug for your home.

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:30 am - 7 pm | Sunday 12 pm - 6 pm 11266 State Bridge Rd, Suite 300, Alpharetta, GA 678-404-7555 * All sizes are approximate. | License #15200

6 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

NEWS

State House District 100

Pinecrest Academy earns top marks in Niche school rankings

By JIM BASS jim@appenmedia.com

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — This year’s House District 100 election race features a matchup between Republican candidate Josh Clark and Democratic challenger Jennifer Ambler. The district includes a portion of south Forsyth County. Republican incumbent Josh Clark is seeking his first term in the Georgia House of Representatives District 100 seat. Clark served two terms as District 98 representative from 2011 to 2015. His brother, David, also served in the District 100 seat for two terms, losing in the Georgia Lieutenant Governor Republican primary on May 19. According to Clark’s campaign website, he is in favor of small government, boosting the economy with reducing regulations and fighting for faith and family values. To learn more about Clark’s campaign, visit votejosh.com. Democratic challenger Jennifer Ambler is originally from Florida, graduating from the University of Florida before working as a math teacher for Teach for America. She later lived in New York City

CUMMING, Ga. — Pinecrest Academy has received top rankings from Niche, a popular school search platform. The academy, located at 955 Peachtree Parkway, was recognized as Georgia’s No. 1 Catholic high school, No. 1 Catholic K-12 school and No. 8 private K-12 school. It was ranked as Forsyth County’s No. 1 private high school. Nationally, it received the No. 8 spot among the best Catholic K-12 schools. The academy was also awarded an A+ in the best private high schools ranking, a grade that puts it in the top 2.5% of such schools. The school was named to the 2025 Advanced Placement program school honor roll, earning platinum distinction for the third consecutive year. Niche is a widely used online platform that offers rankings, reviews and information about K-12 schools, colleges and universities, graduate programs and places to live in the United States. Denise Cress, interim head of

NOV. 3 ELECTION PREVIEW

and started a tax preparation company before moving to Forsyth County in 2020. Among the Ambler’s listed stances on her website, she is campaigning for more reproductive rights, Medicaid expansion, restrictions on data centers and improving the housing market and infrastructure. To learn about Sanabria’s campaign, visit jenniferforga.com.

COURTESY PINECREST ACADEMY

Pinecrest Academy, a Catholic school in Cumming, was named Georgia’s No. 1 Catholic high school by Niche. school, said the Niche awards are a “tremendous honor” and a reflection of the dedication of the school’s staff members, students and families. “At Pinecrest Academy, we remain committed to forming students of faith, character and excellence who are prepared to lead and serve others,” Cress said. The academy was founded in 1993.

Expanding Your Business in the U.S. Metro City Bank is with you.

Metro City Bank’s International Support Team leverages extensive Metro City Bank’s International Support Team leverages extensive experience experience and expertise to provide financial strategies tailoredand expertise to to your business. provide financial strategies tailored to your business.

Wesuccessful also support yourinto successful intowith thecustomized U.S. market financial solutions We also support your entry the U.S.entry market with customized financial solutions designed to promote designed to promote long-term growth and expansion. long-term growth and expansion.

Park404-353-4877 404-353-4877 Johanne Kim 678-900-6300 HMHM Park Johanne Kim 678-900-6300 Kristy Kim 404-259-2359 Katherine Chung 404-247-5533

Kristy Kim 404-259-2359 Katherine Chung 404-247-5533 Headquarters | 5114 Buford Highway, Doraville, GA 30340 Headquarters | 5114 Buford Highway,ofDoraville, 30340 Inc. Metro City Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary MetroCityGA Bankshares,

Metro City Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary ofMCBS) MetroCity Bankshares, Inc. (Nasdaq: MCBS) (Nasdaq:

www.metrocitybank.bank www.metrocitybank.bank

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 7

Just opened? Appen Media publishes New Business Spotlights to highlight local businesses as they get started. Submit yours for free at appenmedia.com/newbusiness. 8 | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026

Scratch-made bagel shop opens Cumming location By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com CUMMING, Ga. — Jeff’s Bagel Run opened its newest location Oct. 2, at 5610 Bethelview Road in Cumming, bringing its hot, fresh bagels, signature spreads and full coffee and beverage line to Forsyth County. The new shop marks Jeff’s Bagel Run’s second location in the metro Atlanta area and gives local guests a new destination for fresh-baked bagels, coffee and breakfast favorites. The store is open daily from 6:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. “We’ve been looking forward to becoming part of the Cumming community, and the response so far has been incredible,” Co-Founder Jeff Perera said. “We’re excited to officially open our doors, meet more of our neighbors and become a regular part of their routine.” Jeff’s Bagel Run is known for its scratch-made bagels, where all the bagels are made fresh in the shop and then boiled and baked throughout the day. Guests can choose from a rotating selection of 16 bagel flavors, signature and seasonal cream cheese spreads, coffee, specialty beverages and more.

GET RESULTS!

Let us help you accomplish your business goals with advertising that reaches the area’s most desirable demographics with news and information that no other publication can deliver — and all at an affordable price. Contact one of our account executives today for more information and ideas on how to take your business to the next level. 1

Ross: City should have residents pick fiscal fate

Public Service Commission race headed to runoff election

► PAGE 3

2 free paint samples every Friday. MUST PRESENT COUPON - LIMIT 2 PER HOUSEHOLD. VALID THRU 5/31/2025. 7/31/2025.

3 LOCATIONS! ROSWELL & EAST COBB! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

► PAGE 5

► PAGE 3

(770) 702-8888

Wills Park brims with area visitors on Fourth of July By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

A girl waves an American flag as she dances to music by Davis and the Love at Roswell Area Park July 4.

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Kendall, from left, John, Brooks and Reid Hill sit on a picnic blanket at Roswell Area Park to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Roswell crowd celebrates America’s 249th birthday By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Food trucks, live music and fireworks were on the menu for America’s birthday in Roswell. A crowd of over 1,000 piled into Roswell Area Park July 4 to celebrate America’s 249th birthday.

Kendall and John Hill travelled from East Cobb to bring their two little ones to the show. “The kids love it,” John Hill said. Baseball fields and multi-use fields were filled with families and friends awaiting the firework show at dusk.

See FOURTH, Page 23

OPINION

See FIREWORKS, Page 24

DR. INGRID REYES

DR. NATU MMBAGA

DR. ANNIE KIM

DR. ZIN ALONSO

404.446.2496 | WWW.REYESOBGYN.COM

Business owner crafts calm in the chaos

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Traci Foreman, Chris Foreman and John Hanley watch fireworks in Wills Park July 4.

► PAGE 8

DR. NADA MEGALLY

EMILY DIXON, CNM

DR. MIRANDA LONG

8TH YEAR IN A ROW!

THANK YOU!

KEIANNA HALEY, CNM

SKYLER JACOBS, CNM

MIMI SONG, CNM

KATIE VAUGHN, CNM

KRISTINE RAYNARD, CNM

ALPHARETTA | JOHNS CREEK | CUMMING

Best OB/GYN DR. TINA LU

DR. NATALIE CLERICUZIO

DR. SHELLEY ZIPPAY

KRISTI PRESLEY, WHNP

JOANNE LEE, FNP

AMBER BECKER, WHNP

HEMALI PATEL, WHNP

Residents celebrate, remember meaning behind Juneteenth

By JON WILCOX | jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The heart of the holiday was shining through the music, food and fun of Creek’s Juneteenth celebration. As the sun set on a warm Saturday evening, Midway grandmother Matilda Riles sat in a lawnchair, watching her grandchildren play on the park lawn amid the sound of booming live music and mouthwatering aroma of food trucks. Before the fun started, Riles, who attended with three generations of family, educated the kids about the reason for Juneteenth. “It's a point in time when enslaved people no longer had to be enslaved, and certain places did not relay the message at the time that it should have been relayed,” Riles said. “And, therefore this is a celebration as to when the final group of people were told you no longer had to be enslaved.” Several thousand visitors descended on the city’s annual celebration at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, doubling last year’s attendance. The celebration resembled a giant block party with live music performances, chatting neighbors, plenty of food and rows of arts and craft vendors.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The perfect biscuit is like a warm hug, said Brandy White, owner of Sawnee Mountain Biscuit Company. “It kind of warms your soul,” White said. “It feels like home to me.” Since 2001, the Sawnee Mountain Biscuit has operated out of a renovated mobile home at 104 13th St., serving perfect pillowy biscuits wrapped around eggs, cheese, bacon and other breakfast staples. With dozens of items on the menu, the restaurant features other tasty offerings from French toast to a house-made pimento cheese. Tucked into a sleepy neighborhood on the edge of Cumming, Sawnee Mountain Biscuit might easily be taken as another house, but locals say the squat, blue-clapboard building is one of the town’s best breakfast spots. Over the decades, the restaurant has earned a cult following in Cumming and the north Atlanta area, serving as many as 400 orders some mornings.

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Brandy White holds her 1-year-old daughter, Lennon, at the entrance to her Sawnee Mountain Biscuit Company on 13th Street just outside Cumming.

“We focus on personal, compassionate care”

EMILY CHUNG, FNP

PAIGE MAROLF, WHNP

LANA WERTZ, CNM

ERICA RICHMOND, CNM

LAURA WIESE, CNM

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office is working to complete converting an old elementary school into a law enforcement training center. Since October, the training center has hosted a public safety academy as part of a partnership between the sheriff’s office and University of North Georgia. The academy, funded by the

ROI

matters.

sheriff’s office, provides training for law enforcement officers in Forsyth County and surrounding jurisdictions, Capt. Rob Heagerty said. At an April 22 work session, the County Board of Commissioners discussed a proposal to allocate $47,993 for design services with ar chitectural firm Wiley Wilson to create plans, conduct inspections and

make changes to water heaters. The sheriff’s office wants to install showers and locker rooms at the building at 4805 Atlanta Highway, Heagerty said. The improvements are important because exercise and physical conditioning are essential in maintaining capable deputies, he said. The building already houses classrooms, meeting rooms, a cafeteria,

gym, simulator room and an empty wing where deputies can conduct building-clearing and other training exercises. The work is part of a second phase to transform former Midway Elementary School into a law enforcement training center.

See SHERIFF, Page 12

Partner with Appen Local Media: Local: Print | Websites | Email Newsletters | Podcasts Use the power of trusted local to grow your business. APPEN Marketing: 770-442-3278 Advertising@AppenMedia.com

Greenhouse complex- Across from the Skate Park in Brookrun Park, Dunwoody

S e p t e m b e r 2 5 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 0 , N o . 3 9

County restores original funding to cultural arts

Children play in the lawn at Newtown Park during a Juneteenth celebration in Johns Creek June 21. JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

ATLANTA — The Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to restore funding for a program within the Arts & Culture Department to $3 million a year Sept. 17. While the unanimous vote reflects unity and bipartisanship, some commissioners criticized colleagues for the delay. The item, sponsored by Democratic commissioners Khadijah AbdurRahman and Marvin Arrington Jr. and Republican commissioners Bob Ellis and Bridget Thorne, includes an increase of $1.7 million for a previously requested program and its full $3 million in funding set aside in the 2026 budget.

See JUNETEENTH, Page 10

sions last January and writing false reports about each of the incidents. “The (Justice Department’s) Civil Rights Division has zero tolerance for law enforcement officers who abuse public trust through excessive force and concealing their misconduct,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “We will vigorously safeguard the constitutional

Dunwoody opens doors to refine future land-use By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

PHOTOS BY: HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Front center, Ann Hanlon, executive director of the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, holds the ribbon for phase one of the Ashford Dunwoody Road path April 3 while City Councilman Tom Lambert, front right, gets ready to cut it. The Perimeter CIDs and Dunwoody split the project’s $1.5 million construction cost.

Commercial partners and city celebrate new path By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

See FULTON, Page 20

Fulton jail staff faces civil rights indictments By DAVE WILLIAMS Capitol Beat ATLANTA — Fulton County Jail employee has been indicted in federal court for allegedly using excessive force against prisoners. The 47-year-old sergeant is accused of repeatedly using tasers on compliant, nonresisting pre-trial detainees on three occa-

April 10, 2025 | AppenMedia.com | An Appen Media Group Publication | Ser ving the community since 1976

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

By JON WILCOX | jon@appenmedia.com

County considers funding for sheriff’s training facility Two-year-old Cameron holds a beach ball at the City of Roswell Fourth of July celebration at Roswell Area Park.

► PAGE 5

2024 DR. JOHN REYES

Biscuit eatery rises to meet high demand

See BISCUIT, Page 6

County delays closing Alpharetta jail site

Pitts: Raising millage rate would be mistake

► PAGE 4

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Thousands filled Wills Park to celebrate July 4 with a bang. Hours before darkness fell, friends and families filled the park’s lawns, Equestrian Center, trails and athletic fields. Everywhere, children played, cartwheeling, running, tossing balls and waving glow sticks. Alpharettan Lindsey Landis, her husband, two children and two dogs were part the crowd, passing the golden hour on a blanket laid out on the grass.

J u n e 2 6 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 9 , N o . 2 6

M ay 1 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 9 , N o . 1 8

rights of all individuals, including those in custody.” “Abuses of power of this kind are unconstitutional, erode our community’s trust, and will be prosecuted,” added Theodore S. Hertzberg, U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Georgia. Solomon faces up to 10 years in prison for each federal civil rights violation and 20

Life Time Perimeter revives health club site ► PAGE 4

Summer Veggies Annuals Pollinator Plants and So Much More! Friday April 11- Sunday April 13

years behind bars for each false report. The FBI’s Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case based on a referral from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

Your Trusted Real Estate Expert

RACHEL PROVOW

Doggie-paddle Pets enjoy cool, pool party at Last Splash Puppy Bash

2025

SEE THE WINNERS INSIDE

Miniature goldendoodle Lexi cools off at the Milton city pool on Sept. 13. Canine companions gathered there to celebrate summer’s end. See the story and more photos from Sarah Donehoo on page 18.

Your Trusted Real Estate Expert

RONY GHELERTER C: 703.899.6663 | Rony@HOMEgeorgia.com | @ronygsellsatlanta

A look down the completed phase one of the Ashford Dunwoody Road path April 3 shows the two-way cycle track parallel to the revamped sidewalk.

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody elected officials, city staff and Perimeter Community Improvement Districts Executive Director Ann Hanlon cut the ribbon April 3 on phase one of the Ashford Dunwoody Road path. “We’re super proud to partner with the city of Dunwoody on building this trail project,” Hanlon

said. “And we’ll look forward to many more phases to come.” A little over two years ago, the group gathered at the same spot near the corner of Ashford Dunwoody Road and Hammond Drive for phase one’s groundbreaking. Phase one of the corridor’s path includes a two-way raised cycle track separated from traffic by a wide landscape buffer

See PATH, Page 17

DUNWOODY, Ga. — The City of Dunwoody is streamlining development rules and updating its vision for the city’s future as part of a state-mandated overhaul. City officials and representatives from consulting firm TSW Design, which was tasked with creating a plan, gave a two-hour presentation about the changes April 1 during a special meeting at Vintage Pizzeria on Chamblee Dunwoody Road. Residents received and discussed the creation of a unified development ordinance and changes to the city’s comprehensive plan. Dunwoody is updating its comprehensive plan as part of a state mandate that requires an overhaul every five years, said Allison Stewart-Harris, an associate principal and planner at TSW. Stewart-Harris presented the changes to about 30 residents who attended the meeting.

JAN HART | REALTOR® JAN HART | REALTOR®® JAN HART | REALTOR c: 678.596.3684 c: 678.596.3684 c: 678.596.3684 o: 404.480.HOME o: 404.480.HOME o: 404.480.HOME JAN@ANSLEYRE.COM JAN@ANSLEYRE.COM JAN@ANSLEYRE.COM

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs announced that the Billboard Music Award-winning band Lit is headlining Friday night Sept. 26 at the third annual Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival. The festival will take place in the heart of Sandy Springs Friday, Sept. 26, from 4-10 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Lit is an American rock band from Orange County,

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Motorists line up at the Boylston Drive signal to turn left onto Hammond Drive Aug. 14. Sandy Springs will begin work in September to realign Boylston to the east and eliminate a nearby traffic light.

Realignment construction begins on Hammond-Boylston intersection

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED

Sandy Springs said Billboard Music Award-winning band, Lit, is headlining this year’s festival Sept. 26-27 at City Springs.

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs contractors are set to begin work in September on realigning the intersection of Boylston and Hammond drives and removing a redundant traffic light. The city says work will last around 15 months, and the intersection will remain open during construction, but there will be occasional lane closures so crews can get the work done safely. Initially, city officials expected the project

to begin in mid-August. No explanation was given. Currently, there are two separate sets of traffic lights less than 100 feet away from one another, one at the Hammond Glen Retirement Community’s driveway and another at the office building next door. The new configuration will shift Boylston Drive to the east, aligning it with the Hammond Glen driveway and eliminating the traffic light at the driveway to the office building at 325 Hammond Drive.

Indicted superintendent resigns

404-403-6561 C | 770-394-2131 O RobinBlass.com

770-442-3278 | advertising@appenmedia.com

Early voting ends Oct. 31 for municipal elections ► PAGE 4

See story on Page 22

Wild Nest Bird Rehab finds roost at Legacy Park

► PAGE 24

See BOYLSTON, Page 8

Atlanta Perimeter Office | 4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road | Atlanta, GA 30338

Hundreds attend Intown Ace Hardware’s annual Ladies Night ► PAGE 14

DeKalb School Board faces tough questions as district finds itself at crossroads

DEAN HESSE/APPEN MEDIA

ROBIN BLASS JANHARTGROUP.COM

INSIDE

Residents trying to pump brakes on I-285 express lane

Education ANSWER BOOK 2025

An Appen Media Group Publication

► PAGE 12

California, formed in 1988. They are best known for their platinum-selling 1999 power-pop punk album “A Place in the Sun” and its massive hit single “My Own Worst Enemy.” The band is set to headline the main stage Friday night at 8 p.m. In addition to Lit, the family-friendly festival features music all day long across multiple stages, an artist market with more than 80 vendors and a Kids Zone.

See LIT, Page 9

October 23, 2025 | Decaturish.com | Locally Sourced News | An Appen Media Group Publication | Volume 1, No. 13

solicitation. All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Equal housing opportunity. If you have an existing brokerage relationship, this is not intended as a solicitation. All data believed to be accurate but not warranted.

#1 SMALL TEAM COMPANYWIDE 2024

GEORGIA RAE HART | REALTOR® c: 678.266.8241 o: 404.480.HOME

ANSLEYRE.COM | 404.480.HOME | 3035 PEACHTREE ROAD, SUITE 202, ATLANTA, GA 30305 Equal housing opportunity. If you have an existing brokerage relationship, this is not intended as a solicitation. All data believed to be accurate but not warranted.

ANSLEYRE.COM | 404.480.HOME 3035 PEACHTREE| ROAD, SUITE 202, ATLANTA, GA 30305 ANSLEYRE.COM 404.480.HOME 3035 PEACHTREE| ROAD, SUITE 202, ATLANTA, GA 30305 ANSLEYRE.COM Equal housing opportunity. If you404.480.HOME have an existing brokerage relationship, this is not intended as a 3035housing PEACHTREE SUITE 202,relationship, ATLANTA, GA 30305 solicitation. All opportunity. data believed to ROAD, be accurate but not warranted. Equal If you have an existing brokerage this is not intended as a

Billboard Music Award winner to headline Sandy Springs fest

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

Put Our Experience To Work For You JAN HART | REALTOR® c: 678.596.3684 o: 404.480.HOME

A u g u s t 2 1 , 2 0 2 5 | 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 4 , N o . 3 4

See REFINE, Page 17

About 30 residents fill a dining room at Vintage Pizzeria on Chamblee Dunwoody Road April 1 to hear a presentation by TSW Design planner Allison Stewart-Harris, who spoke on the city’s future land-use strategy.

Decaturish

2 Decades Decades of of Experience Experience 22Circle Decades of Experience Circle of of Excellence Excellence Circle of Excellence Recipient Recipient Recipient CALL JAN HART FOR ALL CALL JAN HART FOR ALL YOURJAN REAL ESTATE CALL HART FORNEEDS ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

9am-4pm (Fri & Sat) 11am-3pm (Sun)

inSIDEoutPaintCenters.com

J u l y 1 0 , 2 0 2 5 | 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 4 3 , N o . 2 8

Spring Plant Sale!

ink

Charity golf tournament honors beloved founder

THE PAINT PROS AND HOMEOWNERS HAVE TRUSTED FOR GENERATIONS.

FREE PAINT FRIDAY!

Scan QR to Learn More or to Book!

678-831-4949

MAKING DECATUR FEEL GREATER

WE CAN HELP YOU: REGAIN MOBILITY PREVENT INJURY IMPROVE SPORTS PERFORMANCE ELIMINATE PAIN & STIFFNESS

50% OFF FIRST STRETCH Locals Only

Soaring high Atlanta International School set to open new campus, marks 40th anniversary Pages 20-22

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 9

Special Section October 15, 2026 Forsyth Herald | 10

Shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators At Woodward Academy, we believe education should prepare students for more than college—it should prepare them to lead with vision, courage, and purpose. To innovate responsibly. To create impact in a complex, everchanging world. That’s why our mission extends beyond academic excellence. We cultivate character and opportunity, shaping students not just for success, but for significance. For families who care deeply about the kind of people their children will become, Woodward offers something rare: an education designed to spark ambition, nurture integrity, and empower leadership on a global scale. The results speak for themselves Our alumni are innovators,

entrepreneurs, and public servants—making their mark in Fortune 500 boardrooms, national politics, scientific research, and the arts. They lead with clarity, confidence, and conscience, often citing Woodward’s balance of challenge and care as the foundation for their success. Programs that anticipate the future We understand that today’s solutions won’t solve tomorrow’s problems. That’s why Woodward invests in forward-thinking programs such as: • Executive Communication— teaching students to present, debate, and lead with confidence. • Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Tech—early exposure to the tools shaping the future. • Global Studies & Exchange—

immersive experiences that prepare students for international collaboration. These opportunities don’t just enhance résumés. They cultivate resilient, adaptive thinkers ready for whatever comes next. A community that opens doors Our greatest strength is our people. Alumni, parents, mentors, and thought leaders form a network that creates opportunities far beyond the classroom—from internships and shadowing to partnerships and philanthropy. Woodward is not simply a school. It is a lifelong ecosystem of support and influence. For families who value purpose over prestige, the choice is clear. The world doesn’t just need achievers—it needs leaders. Their journey can begin here.

PROVIDED

EXCEPTIONAL ACADEMICS, A STRONG COMMUNITY, AND LIFELONG SUCCESS.

THAT’S WOODWARD WAY

THE

Brought to you by – Woodward Academy

woodward.edu/inquire

EDUCATION • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 11

THE SAINT FRANCIS ADVANTAGE Known. Confident. Prepared.

At Saint Francis School, education is personal by design. Small classes, multiple academic pathways, structured support, and meaningful relationships allow students to be appropriately challenged while building the confidence and independence they need to succeed. And now, the Saint Francis Advantage is growing. Beginning in 2027–2028, Saint Francis will welcome 4th and 5th grades to our Milton Campus, creating an earlier pathway into our Middle School and High School programs. Founded in 1976, Saint Francis is an independent, non-sectarian, collegepreparatory school serving students across two campuses. Our Roswell Campus serves grades K–8, and our growing

Milton Campus will serve grades 4–12. From Elementary through High School, Saint Francis meets students where they are and challenges them to grow. Students benefit from strong academics and individualized support, plus opportunities in AP, Dual Enrollment, Honors, athletics, fine arts, STEM, robotics, clubs, and more. Across both campuses, students are known for who they are and how they learn. They become confident in their abilities and leave Saint Francis prepared for what comes next. ONE SCHOOL. TWO CAMPUSES. LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES. Discover the Saint Francis Advantage. SaintFrancisSchools.com.

12 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

EDUCATION • Sponsored Section

High Meadows School Baccalaureate (IB) World School offerInspiring future ing its renowned Primary Years Program students in preschool through fifth global citizens and for grade. High Meadows School’s accominnovative leaders plished and experienced faculty lead Brought to you by – High Meadows School & Camp There is no place like High Meadows School & Camp. Since 1973, High Meadows students in Pre-K through 8th grade have learned through experiential, immersive educational opportunities offered both in the school’s spacious, light-filled classrooms and across 42 acres of grassy fields and scenic woodlands. High Meadows School’s progressive curriculum is focused on developing future global citizens and innovative leaders who embrace challenge and think for themselves. High Meadows lower years classrooms offer low student-teacher ratios in which instruction emphasizes academic excellence, love of learning, critical thinking, and environmental and social responsibility. As a nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows is an accredited International

each student on this journey. Through interactive, inquiry-based instruction, supported by of-the-moment technology and our nature-based campus, High Meadows teachers are unequaled in their intellect, passion, and compassion for these kids. Every day they inspire authentic learning opportunities that are engaging and sticky (literally and figuratively!). When children graduate from High Meadows, they are empowered with a deep respect for international perspectives, an intuitive understanding of life’s interconnectedness, and an exceedingly strong sense of self. Education is an expedition that starts from the moment we are born. When we teach children to be curious and inquiring at an early age, we create within them a love of learning that lasts an entire lifetime. What is more important than that? Please visit our website at highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940 to learn more about High Meadows School.

High Meadows School & Camp inspires Pre-K through 8th grade students to think critically,

learn creatively, act globally and live compassionately. Applications are open now. Visit www.highmeadows.org to learn more and schedule a campus tour.

1055 Willeo Road | Roswell, Georgia | (770) 993-2940

PROVIDED

EDUCATION • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 13

Education solutions for every mind, every age Brought to you by – Eaton Academy Eaton Academy is a small private school, offering multiple programs, both in person and online. ACCESS, Eaton’s newest program, serves students with limited verbal communication skills – including those with apraxia. Teachers provide individualized instruction and responsive guidance. Students may use AAC devices and experience time in a sensory room. Other 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 neuro-diverse 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. This approach is perfect for students on the spectrum, those with developmental delays, and individuals with other scholastic chal-

lenges. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater selfsufficiency 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

EATON ACADEMY NOW ENROLLING

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. Post-Graduate Programs 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 development in our model apartment. 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 quite ready for college or to live on their own. CFP enhances students’ abilities in academics, social settings, independent living, and employment. Students receive on-the-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.

A Challenging Approach to Education that Features: • Programs for Neurotypical & Neurodivergent Learners • Attention to Individual Needs • Customized College-Prep Programs for K-12 • 5:1 Student: Teacher Ratio • Independent Study Classes • Supportive, Nurturing Environment • Post-Graduate Options Available

CALL 770.645.2673 OR VISIT EATONACADEMY.ORG PHOTOS PROVIDED

14 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

EDUCATION • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 15

16 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

PRESERVING THE PAST

OPINION

The intriguing Webbs – a family for all time The north Fulton Webb family is a fascinating study in part because there were so many of them in the area beginning in the 1840s. Pat Miller, a fervent student of BOB MEYERS local history, once Columnist told me that by the 1920s, after seven generations of Webbs, there were nearly 150 Webb descendants in the north Fulton area, including spouses, and many more after that. Many other local families intermarried with the Webbs, people with names such as Maxwell, Shirley, Paris, Martin, Bagwell, Devore, Mansell, McGinnis, Medlock, Mayfield, Phillips and numerous others. I wrote a column about the Webbs in 2024, so this column is a follow-up, thanks to the suggestion of one Webb history lover, Janie Webb, who retired after a successful career in financial services. One of several Webb pioneers to settle in the Big Creek (also called Vickery Creek) area south of Cumming in Forsyth County, home to several large farms, was the Rev. John Malcom Webb (1840-1924), who is buried in the Old Ocee Cemetery in Alpharetta. He is somehow related to a representative of the following generation, Joseph Joel “J.J.” Webb (1858-1939), Janie Webb’s greatgrandfather, whom she describes as a “prominent Milton farmer.” He was also a leading businessman. He married a very young Mary C. “Molly” Dildy (18651911) in 1882. Dildy was a known family name in the area at that time. They had 10 sons and a large farm on Webb Bridge Road. In September 1911, soon after his wife’s death, J.J. put some of his property up for sale. He placed an ad in the Milton County News titled “Farm For Sale,” which read: “I have 80 acres of land yet for sale, two miles from Alpharetta on public road. Also ten acres of land and a good fiveroom house in Alpharetta, on Duluth Street. Also one nice vacant lot on Roswell Street. J. J. WEBB.” (Spelling and capitalization are as they appeared in the original.) Indicative of the hard times facing the north Fulton economy at the time was a large ad in the Aug. 3, 1913, Atlanta Constitution announcing “bankrupt sale of the J. J. Webb land. 650 acres” and other properties, including the J.J. Webb old homestead and the large, two-story J.J. Webb and Sons Building, constructed in 1910 in

IMAGES PROVIDED TO APPEN MEDIA

Robert E. Webb Jr. joined the Army Air Corps during WWII in his late teens. He flew 35 missions over Tokyo.

downtown Alpharetta. At one time, it housed the Bates Grocery, the Milton County Bank, the Shirley Bothers store and a post office. J.J. and his son R.J. (Robert) also built the Webb Guano House around 1901. The economic conditions in rural Milton County in 1913 were bad enough to cause J.J.’s bankruptcy. Falling cotton prices, banking instability and an early boll weevil problem were part of the situation. J.J.’s commercial commitment, especially to the Webb building, became unsustainable. The bankruptcy significantly affected the family, with several sons relocating to other nearby cities. Atlanta, by contrast, was booming — a comparison that might be the subject of a future column. One son, Earl Simeon Webb (18931984), moved to San Bernardino, California, married Valah D. Webb (1895-1978) and became an industrial chemist and wealthy inventor of Webb Glue around the 1920s. He was also a major donor to the Seventh-day Adventist medical school, Loma Linda University, about 10 miles from his home. Webb Glue was never patented. It was a proprietary industrial adhesive, not a retail product. This allowed Earl to keep the formula secret to avoid copying. Factories, especially furniture factories, bought the adhesive by the barrel because it had all the features

Robert E. Webb Jr. was a tail gunner on the B-29 bomber during U. S. attacks on Tokyo during WW II. The tail gunner used a sighting system that let him fire several other turrets, as well as the tail guns. They were under constant attack by Japanese fighter planes as they approached Japan. One of the B-20’s numerous new technologies was a pressurized cabin. needed to make their products: quick drying time, strength and waterproofing. Factories kept replenishing their supplies, and Earl kept getting richer. His story provides a rare link between rural agricultural Georgia and growing California industry. Another son, Robert E. Webb Sr. (1900-1982), the youngest of J.J.’s sons, is remembered fondly by his granddaughter Janie Webb. He was born on the family farm on Webb Bridge Road. He married Annie May Gladys Cook Webb (1902-1974) of Duluth in 1925. He and his family lived in Norcross. Robert served in World War I and World War II. He was a victim of mustard gas in the trenches of World War I and always had trouble breathing. After the war, he worked as a mechanic for General Motors. He volunteered in World War II and traveled to repair equipment for the Army, but he couldn’t serve as a soldier because of his health. He retired from GM, which led Janie’s father to work for GM after World War II. Robert E. Webb Jr. (1925-2013), Janie’s father, was married to Opal Hazel O’Kelly Webb (1927-2014). The couple met as students at Norcross High School. Robert served as a tail gunner in a B-29 long-range bomber for the Army Air Corps during World War II, stationed

in the Marianas Islands on Tinian Atoll, a 13- to 15-hour flight to Japan. He flew 35 night missions over Tokyo, targeting huge fuel tanks along the docks in Tokyo harbor. The B-29’s extreme range and heavy payload capacity made it the ideal weapon to reach the Japanese mainland. Robert received numerous awards and commendations for his valor at a time when the average life of a tail gunner in his cramped Plexiglas and metal turret was only four missions. The awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal and First, Second and Third Oak Leaf Clusters. Returning home at 19, he began his career with GM in Doraville. Many other Webbs of note have lived in north Fulton and southern Forsyth County. It is quite a family. Thanks to historian Connie Mashburn for his help with this column. Bob is a member of the city of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission, director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a trustee on the board of directors of the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth. net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 17

VISIT THE APPEN MEDIA STORE Support local journalism by visiting appenmediastore.com – every purchase directly funds the vital work of the Appen Media newsroom.

SHOP AT APPENMEDIASTORE.COM AND SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

18 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

Fair: Continued from Page 1 Their son may be a lot taller, but the tradition remains the same, one of the many memories the family has made at the fair. Hundreds of families like the Granthams visited the Cumming fair Oct. 9, enjoying thrill rides, fried foods and shows at the beloved event. Held at the Cumming Fairgrounds and organized by the city of Cumming, the annual event has been put on since 1997, said Event Coordinator Madysen Myers. Set to continue through Oct. 18, the fair is expected to attract as many as 300,000 visitors, Myers said. For many, the fair offers an opportunity for friends and family to share a moment together free from the “busyness” of life and other distractions, including technology. “iPads, Netflix, all that, we have so much technology … we’re so busy,” Ashley Grantham said, watching her sons ride the merry-go-round. “[Being at the fair together] is super important.”

The Cumming Country Fair and Festival features thrill rides and traditional fair foods.

Podcast: Continued from Page 1 “First it’s like looking through a toilet paper roll or a paper towel roll,” Roach said, describing what she sees. “Then it becomes looking through a McDonald's straw, and I would say mine is like a coffee straw.” Originally from Bay City, Michigan, Roach moved to Cumming in March 2017. She said she has had positive experiences with other residents and has never been denied service because of her guide dog. However, getting around Forsyth County independently remains difficult. Since she no longer drives, she

coordinates rides with her husband, friends and youngest daughter. “I wish there were more options for public transportation. They have Access Forsyth, but it’s not convenient,” Roach said. Access Forsyth requires rides to be scheduled in advance, making it difficult to accommodate last-minute plans. Roach would also like to see more accessibility features downtown, such as audible pedestrian signals. The podcast idea grew out of Roach’s own experience with isolation. During a trip to Michigan to receive a new guide dog through Leader Dogs for the Blind, she connected with others who understood her experiences. “I found that being around people

who I didn't have to explain my vision impairment to, who were in a similar situation as I was, was very freeing for me,” Roach said. “To share my story with people was important, and I wanted to give other people a way to share their story and to know that they weren't alone.” Roach said the podcast helps people feel accepted and understood through shared experiences rather than focusing primarily on education or advocacy. She also hopes the podcast helps sighted listeners and caregivers better understand how to offer assistance and understand what kind of help visually impaired people want and don’t want. “It feels really nice to know that you’re not alone and that is exactly what

DEATH NOTICES Judith Erhardt, age 88, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on September 29, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Hampton Logan, age 83, of Milton, GA passed away on September 28, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory

Gail Gibson, age 86, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on September 29, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Carolyn Smith, age 82, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on September 28, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Bonita Tillman, age 94, of Roswell, GA passed away on October 5, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory. June Thomas, age 88, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on September 24, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

their podcast does for me,” said Stephanie Fineout, a listener and past guest on the podcast. “It’s just listening to two people talk about things that really hit home for me and they help.” Fineout, who also has Retinitis Pigmentosa, lives in Louisiana but is friends with Austin Linton through Facebook. After listening to the first episode of “Central Vision Podcast,” she reached out and became friends with Roach. Fineout says she listens to every episode and takes away something new from each one. “You start to realize that you really can have an absolutely full life and I’ve always kind of known that, but it really does help to see that there are other people out there that are visually impaired really living their lives and to the absolute fullest,” Finout said. Now, Roach hopes to create a similar connection in Forsyth County through an informal gathering where visually impaired residents can share experiences and enjoy one another’s company. She is still working out the logistics but hopes to start meeting after the new year. Roach also encourages people experiencing vision loss to seek resources such as cane training or assistive technology to help them maintain their independence. “It’ll take time. It’ll take effort, and it can be a little scary, but it’s well worth it in the end,” Roach said.

Puzzles

rier 10/1/26 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 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!

Forsyth Herald ..........................October 15, 2026 | 19

MAD MONEY

M Dunwoody Crier 10/1/26 Crossword

Across

PuzzleJunction.com

1. Long-tailed colorful parrot. British money. Stinger. 2. Big cat. Ne’er-do-well. Cambodian cash. 3. “Seinfeld” regular. Like the Vikings. Japanese money. 4. EU money. Recipe direction. Martini addition. 5. Beige. Baltimore baseballer. Mexican money. 6. Kind of ray. Say with certainty. Sri Lankan money. 7. Exploding star. Croquet area. Money of Israel. PuzzleJunction.com

12 13 14 15 1 Tennis great Arthur 16 17 18 19 5 Carry 21 22 20 9 Harpoon 3 12 Fired a gun 23 24 25 26 13 Change for a five 14 Oklahoma city 4 27 28 29 16 Gentle 31 32 33 34 17 1961 Haley Mills 30 5 family flick 37 38 35 36 20 Get older 21 Washer cycle 41 39 40 6 22 Tristan’s love 42 43 44 23 Following 25 Gender (Abbr.) 45 46 47 48 49 0/1/26 Sudoku7 26 Japanese coin 27 Aviator 50 51 52 53 54 55 Dunwoody 10/1/26 Kakuro PuzzleJunction.com How to Solve: Each line in theMad puzzleMoney above has Crier three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is 28 Coffee order the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each 1. Long-tailed colorful parrot. British money. Stinger. 58 56 57 30 Kind of prize 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 Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. The rules are easy: A number 31 1985 Eastwood for 3 answers on thepuzzle, line. Buteach here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually To the solve the Sudoku row, column and 2. Big cat. Ne’er-do-well. Cambodian cash. 59 60 61 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 epic be the second or the thirdnumbers answer in1that line. Good inluck! boxformust contain to of 9. the Got whiteit? squares the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence. 35 Surrealist Max 3. “Seinfeld” regular. Like the Vikings. Japanese money. 62 63 64 37 Skater Midori 4. EU money. Recipe direction. Martini addition. Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com 38 Itsy-bitsy 39 1992 Charles 61 Emerald ___ 9 2008 Steve Carell 33 Jealousy 5. Beige. Baltimore baseballer. Mexican money. Grodin doggie movie remake of 62 Thing, in law 34 Bread type 6. Kind of ray. Say with certainty. Sri lanka money. flick 63 Persian spirit TV series 36 1963 Hitchcock 41 Preserve 64 Attention-getter 10 Division word classic 7. Exploding star. Croquet area. Money of Israel. 42 Sp. Mr. 11 Young females 40 Nonstop 43 Big name in oil 15 Florida’s MiamiDown 43 1982 Ben 45 Nile viper ___ County Kingsley epic 48 Wager 1 The Thin Man 18 Family girl 44 Bard’s “before” 49 Vaughan of jazz 19 Corral canine 45 “___ du lieber!” 50 French composer 21 ___-Foy, Que. 2 Carpet type 46 Vegas attraction 52 Sharpen 3 1990 Macaulay 24 Beginnings 47 Might 53 Marry 25 Crook Culkin silliness 49 Navigational aid 56 1992 Anthony 4 Season, in France 27 Duffer’s cry 51 French door part Hopkins film 5 1937 Cary Grant 28 Office stamp 52 Blood pigment 58 Loathsome comedy 29 Big party 54 Fashion magazine 59 Make one’s way 6 Walking ___ 30 Cotillion girl 55 View as through a crowd 7 Sea swallow 31 Turning point 57 Dupe Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com 60 Asian nurse How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a 8 Compass pt. 32 1974 Bronson flick 58 By means of

1 3 9

1 8 5 6 8 9 1 7 2 6 4 1 2 8 6 2 3 4

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

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.

Solution

Solution 9 1 3 5 6 7 4 8 2

4 8 5 9 3 2 6 7 1

7 2 6 8 1 4 5 9 3

6 4 8 3 2 9 1 5 7

2 7 9 1 8 5 3 6 4

5 3 1 7 4 6 9 2 8

1 5 7 4 9 8 2 3 6

3 9 2 6 7 1 8 4 5

8 6 4 2 5 3 7 1 9

See puzzle solutions on Page 20

Is Your Company Hiring? Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

1 3 9

20 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

1 8 SOLUTIONS Solution 5 6 8 1 7 9 2 1/26 Kakuro 6 4 2 1 6 8 3Connect-It4 Solution 2

G I G T O T E A S H E Join today E N I D O N E S S H O T for $16/month P A R E N T T R A P T A M E I S O L D E S P I N A G E S E N F E M A F T E R PuzzleJunction.com D E C A F F L I E R P A L E R I D E R D O O R T E E N Y I T O E R N S T DC Aiken E grid. The rules are easy: S A V style N V E solved H Opuzzle, B E E Tnumber A number in a crossword Cross Sums, is a challenging Big Sky Franchise Team T it.YA number below the diagonal line is the sum T of E right G the R N Osquares E white to of the in a black square is the sum S David & Michelle Bertany R 9,AandHa digit can only be used once in any sequence. S A1 to T the digits P may BonlyEuse A it.S You the sequence below MaryAnne Browne W E D H O N E C H O P I N Amour & Duane Carthy V I L E H O W A R D S E N D Scott Childress I S L E A M A H W E N D A H E M P E R I R E S Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

A S P O U N D 1 M A C A W PuzzleJunction.com

2 L O A F E R I E L I O N 3 Y E N O R S E L A I N E 4 B A S T E U R O L I V E

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club CHARTER MEMBER Adam Corder Patrick Cressaty Lindsay DeFranco Robert Flint Robin Fricton Zachary Hahn

Barbara Anderson Kerry Arias Scott Baynton Joseph Bell Rita Brown SM Buscher Mark Casas

Solution

7 S H E K E L A W N O V A

9 1 3 5 6 7 4 8 2

8 6 4 2 5 3 7 1 9

Bruce Paulk Ross & Lori Ramsey Sarah Reiter Mark Rundle Matthew Sayle Lynn Thomas

Kim Truett Roger Wise Jr. Colt Whittall

Jennifer Phillippi Robert Popp Dave Rhinehart Sergey Savin Heather Sawyer Kate Seng Karen Shih

Christina Singleton Bob Stevens Kimberly Verska Carol Williams

Rebecca Donlan James Dorsey Tom Driscoll Michael Dudgeon Jeanette Dummer DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Thomas Edmonds William Edmundson Denise Eicher Mim Eisenberg Danny Elkins Su Ellis Grady Evans Leslie Ann Everett Stephen Fabian Carol Fain Martha Fasse Nell & Doug Fernandez Renai Fitzpatrick Daniel Fleck Lee Fleck Laura Floyd Andrew Flynn Cathy Flynn Paul Folger Adrienne Fontaine Mary Ford Nanci Foster Amy Frederick Kelly Frommer Carol Fry Tim Fulton

Andrew Garner Tracey Ganesh Steve Garrett Daniel Gay Matthew Geller John Gibbs John Gilberto Leslie Gilliam Bailey & Ryan Gladysz Michelle Glotzbach Harvey Goldberg Christopher Goodrich Jim Gray Ralph Griffin Rihard Griffiths Elaine Gwynn Carolyn Hall Marilee Hamilton Susan Hanna Marion Hannah Chris Harrell Roxanne Hazen Penn Hodge Dianne & Steffan Holmquist Joan Hostetter Julie Hostetter Krista Howland Austin Hughes Jason Hunyar Jacqueline Hursh Barbara Hurt-Simmons Susan Huss

MEMBER+ David Conti Theodore Davis III Maureen Drumm Charlcie Forehand Aileen Horton Deborah Jackson David Johnson

Ali Mahbod Richard Matherly Evan McElroy Vickie McElroy Anne Peer Helen Perry Mary Phelps

MEMBER

5 P E S O R I O L E C R U 6 G A M M A V E R U P E E

Allison January Michael Kenig Roderick Liptrot Bob Meyers Claude Nardy Cliff Oxford

Carl Abernathy Bruce Ackley Salpi Adrouny Alpharetta Lions Club Omar Altalib Dave Altman Ron Altman Joel Alvis American Legion Post 201 Ken Amos Alice & Dr. Richard Appen Stewart Applbaum Gaye Armstrong Mary Asbury Marcus Ashworth Amy Auffant Bonnie Avera Carolyn Axt Bangkok Boxing LLC Sandra Balmer Shannon Banna Beth Barnes Michael Baron Janet Bass Caitlin Bates Jannet Bauer Barbara Bauschka Miriam Beattie Kathy Beck Laura Bentley William Bentley Steve Berman

Leslie Berry Tom Billings Caroline Blackmon Tochie Blan Ron Boddicker Jodi Bogen JoAnn Bogner Sherri Bolles-Rogers Katherine Bolt Helen Borland Debra Bowen Joe Bowen Kenneth Bowman David Boy Ryan Brainard Mark Brandus Mel Brannen Amy Bratten Carol Bright Linda Brill Dorothy Brouhard Mary Anne Brown Erendira Brumley Zack Buchanan Lee Buechele Bernhard Burgener Alvin Burrell Mike & Theresa Buscher Mary Busman Clea Calloway Jean Campbell Kirk Canaday

James Carr Bridgette Carter William Carter William Cartwright Linda & Frank Catroppa Virginia Christman Adam Cleveland Ann Coaloa Kim Coggins Michael Cohen Kathleen Cohen Evelyn Collazo Jeffery Conn Michael Mackenzie Communications Joan Compton Kathleen Cook Carol Cookerly Terri Coons Sarah Cox Cynthia Crawford Rhonda Cude Connie Cunningham Christopher Cupit Bart Dean David Dean Duane DeBruler Marilyn DeCusati Kathleen DeMartino Nancy Diamond Sarah Donehoo Ann Donie

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Scan QR code to join the Appen Press Club

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 21

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club

Join today for $16/month

MEMBER (CONT.) Susan Huss Paul Huth Jeffrey Hyde J. Craig Inman Sandra Jacobs Susan Jacques Lynn Johnson Tyler Jones Zach Jones Patricia Kachur Amy Kanderis Arthur Kebanli Laura Keck Mark Kelly Nancy Kennell Randall Kent Carol Kerr Sally Klaskala Allison Kloster Dyna Kohler Brett Koutnik Larry Krueger Jess & Chris Kysar Malinda Lackey Sarah Lamm Daniel Lashinsky Richard Lapin Christine Law Brandon Leach Dennis Lee Ken Leffingwell Carol Lehan

Melissa Libby Bonnie Lind Francia Lindon Karen Lippert Harlan Little Jarrett Long Ross Long Kyser Lough Rita Loventhal Jerry Lucas Brenda Lundy Harry Lutz Rita Loventhal Karen Magill Freda Manning-Rumph Hilbert Margol Julie Martin Linda & Todd Martinez Carla Masecar Valerie Matthews Theresea Mattioli William Maxwell Nicole Mayer Rachel McCord Austin McCully Diane McDonald Evan McElroy Karen McEnerny Jack McGinnis Lynn McIntyre Mike McLoughlin Margaret McManus

Jay O’ Meara Celia Mendez Jennifer Mendoza Dan Merkel Al Merrill Chris Miller Christine Miller Patricia Miller Milton Animal Hospital George Mobley Joe Modica Fred Moeller Sarah Moen Catherine Moore Ralph Moore Carol Morgan Kathy Morgan Stu Moring Karen Mowery Leslie Mullis Donna Murphy Jack Murphy Aileen Nakamura George Nathan Caroline Naughton Richard Nichols Cindy Nolan North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. Carol & Carl Obenland Tricia Novarro Bob O’Brien Martha O’Brien

THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEWS

Jay O’Meara Diana O’Sullivan Anne Pappas Lynn Pennington Jonathan Peters Kurt & Leslie Phillips Mary & Jan Phillips James Potts Debra Powell Seth Price Joyce Provissiero Chuck Pugh Douglas Quat Patricia Rackliffe Robert Radloff Raj Rajagopalan Pankaj Rajankar Ashwin Ramaswami Cheryl Rand Manu Rao James Rasmussen Paula Rattray Lori Rausch Jean Rearick Joseph Reed Scarlett Reynolds Righteous PR Angie Rigney Sean Riley Neil Robertson Rory Robichaux Kimberly Robinson

Continued innovation in digital media has changed the ways in which people buy, sell and interact with products and services. It has caused businesses to reassess the ways in which it communicates with potential customers and advertises its products. It has been well documented that these changes have had a destructive impact on local newspapers, which continues to be a primary source for local news, but is no longer a primary source for local advertising dollars – historically the lifeblood for reporters and their coverage. At Appen Media Group we want to address this conflict head on, and build new and innovative approaches to monetizing local news and creating a sustainable future for local journalism in metro Atlanta.

Matt Rohs Kim Romaner Rita Rosenthal Claudia Ross Courtney Rozear Fran Russell Janet Sandberg Carolina Santos Kelly Sarmiento Fran Schefer Derek Scheidt Dorothy Scherr Stephanie Schniederjan The Schoenblum Family Robert Scholz Robert Schreiner Stephanie Schuette Susan Searles Frances Segars Tracy Shealy Tina Shelton Lisa Shippel Steve Short Tom Simon Cindy Simpson Robert Singleton Faye Sklar Mitchel Skyer Judith Slaughter Andy Smith Lee Smith Tia Solh

Morris Soriano Heidi Sowder Gena Spears Donald Spencer Melissa Spencer Jordan Spivack Jan Stephens Judith Stewart Wesley Stewart Cathryn Stovall Celeste Strohl Diana Sullivan Andy Sumlin Kathy Swahn Carol Tall Mike Tasos Candice Teichert The Small Business Advisor Suzanne & Bob Thomas William Tietjen Lisa Tilt Michael Townes Trunnion LLC Matthew Tyser Edward Votta Linda Wabler Ollie Wagner Lewis Walker Elizabeth Waller Valerie Walters-Gold Ann Marie Warning Terry Warnke

Jonathan Washburn Michael Watson Deborah Weiss Michael Weiss Herbert Wells Benjamin Wemberly Beverly Whisenant Sally White Thom White Umpika White Mae Whiteside Ashley Whitt Jennifer Wieland Christine Williams Jamie Wimberly Jonathan Winkie Nancy & Dave Wistrand Kalle Wood Theresa Woolridge Laura Wysong Jonathan Young

THE APPEN PRESS CLUB

One solution is the creation of a membership driven organization called the Appen Press Club that is dedicated to recruiting people and companies to join as members. Members pay recurring monthly or annual dues that are 100% dedicated to sustainable journalism. By providing predictable revenue, Appen Press Club members and partners help fund the salaries and expenses of local reporters who will no longer be subject to the whims of marketing budgets and an ever changing advertising world. In turn, those reporters will provide the readers they serve with highly researched and qualified journalism focused on subjects that directly affect their quality of life.

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278. Scan QR codeto join the Appen Press Club

22 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

Full-time Hospitalist Physician (multiple positions in Alpharetta, GA). Render medical services at the hospital in the medical specialty of hospital medicine. Must have an M.D., D.O., or foreign equiv. deg. Must be Bd.-certified or Bd.-eligible in Internal Med. or Osteopathic Med. Must possess a CA Med. lic. or be able to obtain. Subject to periodic transfers to various unanticipated locs. in the U.S. Must have legal authority to work in U.S. EEOE. Send resume to: Crystal Fann, Director of Human Resources, 24 ON Physicians of California, PC, 13000 Deerfield Pkwy, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30004 or cfann@incompasshealth.com. Reference: HospitalistNB52. Lead Java Developer, GIS, HQ: Cumming, GA Design, develop & maintain enterprise level apps; work from hm ofc anywhere in US; BS or foreign equiv in CS or clsly rel.; 5 yrs rel. exp; $152,131; resume & cvr ltr to: CJ@global-it-solutions.net.

Your North Atlanta News & Podcast Source AppenMedia.com

Part-time

Discovery Analytics Inc needs professionals – Alpharetta, GA

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR (Part-Time) Alpharetta Presbyterian Church

Position 1 – Software Developers/Software Engineer Develop Java/Spring Boot microservices applications using REST APIs, Angular, SQL, AWS, & DevOps tools. Req: Master’s+1 yr Progressively responsible exp. Wages: $135658 /yr.

Seeking an organized, detail-oriented professional to support church operations and staff. Position is 2025 hours per week, M-F, on-site.

Position 2 – Database Architects/Data Engineer Work using Python and SQL to build scalable, secure healthcare data pipelines on AWS, Kubernetes, Airflow, and Snowflake. Req: Master’s +1 yr progressively responsible exp. Wages: $ 164736 /yr. Both positions: Multiple Openings. Relocate to unanticipated site. No Int’l /Nat’l travel. Mail to: President, 11535 Park Woods Circle, Ste A, Alpharetta, GA, 30005

Project Engineer (Johns Creek, GA): Dsgn structural components. Prep estimates/scopes. Dvlp preliminary designs/material takeoffs. Check calcs/ codes/specs/dsgns. Dvlp conceptual layouts/cost studies. Review vendor drawings/provide structural input. Req. BS in Civil Engg./closely reltd/foreign equiv + 5 yrs. relev exp. 2 yrs. exp. in ASCE/AISC/ACI/ SACS/RISA3D/ STAADPro/TEDDS/modular Structural dsgn/forensic analysis/AutoCAD/Revit software/ Enelcalc/MS office. Mail resume to Soft Source, Inc. 6470 East John’s Crossing, Ste. 160, Johns Creek, GA 30097

Advertise your JOB OPENING in the newspaper and you too can say...

Responsibilities include: • Human resources administration and staff support • Church operational and administrative functions • Technology systems coordination and support • Insurance, compliance, and records management • Vendor and contractor administration To apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter to alpharettajobopening@gmail.com

Qualifications: • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree required • Strong computer and organizational skills • Experience in office administration, operations management, HR, or related field preferred • Excellent communication skills and ability to maintain confidentiality • Successful criminal records/child abuse background check required

Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk 1L (Building and Grounds/Custodial/ Maintenance) (part-time position) to perform facility maintenance and grounds keeping duties. Requires some heavy lifting, high school diploma or equivalency and a valid GA driver’s license. Related experience with outdoor maintenance equipment and a valid CDL are preferred. Hours: Availability for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, October 16, 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.

Belco Electric

“Family Owned Since 1972” Fast Dependable Service by Professional Uniformed Electricians

Check out our new website:

770-455-4556 BelcoInc.com

and follow us on:

Home Cleaning/Organizing

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including individuals with Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee Move in, move outs, one time or monthly cleanings, EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable clean out a room, need some organizing? accommodation may be made to enable qualified CALL Tracey Wood @ 470-779-9981 individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.Media Group\Filler Ads\ T:\ADS_2025\Appen Shop, Eat, Read Local

il -3278 or ema Call 770-44a2ppenmedia.com classifieds@

Electricians

SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL READ LOCAL

WATER • SOIL • STRUCTURE THE REESE GROUP INT LLC

WATER PROBLEMS? FOUNDATION ISSUES?

Waterproofing • French Drains Foundation Repair • Crawlspace Repair Sagging Floors • Soil Stabilization Grading Retaining Walls • Creek / Rip-Rap VETERAN & FAMILY-OWNED

678-481-2081 www.thereesegroupintl.com

To place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm

AppenMedia.com/Forsyth | Forsyth Herald | October 15, 2026 | 23

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Autos Wanted

No more cleaning gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. Call 1-833-610-1936 to schedule FREE inspection/ estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Military & Seniors get additional 10% off. Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for details.

Home Services

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Aging roof? New homeowner? Storm damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. 877-461-0698 Have Bath & shower updates in as zip code ready when calling! little as 1 day! Affordable prices Water damage cleanup & - No payments for 18 months! restoration: A small amount of Lifetime warranty & professional water can lead to major damage installs. Senior & military discounts in your home. Our trusted available. 1-877-543-9189 professionals do repairs to protect your family & home value! 877318-6832. Have zip code ready!

Health & Fitness

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 Prepare for power outages www.dental50plus.com/ads today with a Generac Home #6258 Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208

Miscellaneous

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, home, Wesley Financial Group, assets now for as little as 70¢/ LLC timeshare cancellation day! 877-907-0316 experts over $50 million timeshare debt/fees cancelled Need cash quickly? We buy in 2019. Free info package. houses in any condition. Get a Free consultations. Over 450 fair cash offer within 24 hours! positive reviews. 833-308-1971 Call today. Liz Buys Houses: 833-359-4707

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more information www.communitypublishers.com/ category/all-products

Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866

Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned &affordable. For service or inspection today! 877-916-2103 Have zip code ready!

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930 TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. Call 866-433-8277

SunSetter. America’s Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to10year limited warranty. Save $350 today! 855-914-1148

End your tax worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Free consultation. Priority Tax 855-959-2267

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 877-484-8583 Peace of mind & early detection-Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life LineScreening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172

GET RESULTS!

Ross: City should have residents pick fiscal fate

Public Service Commission race headed to runoff election

► PAGE 3

2 free paint samples every Friday. MUST PRESENT COUPON - LIMIT 2 PER HOUSEHOLD. VALID THRU 5/31/2025. 7/31/2025.

3 LOCATIONS! ROSWELL & EAST COBB! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

► PAGE 5

► PAGE 3

(770) 702-8888

Wills Park brims with area visitors on Fourth of July By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

A girl waves an American flag as she dances to music by Davis and the Love at Roswell Area Park July 4.

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Kendall, from left, John, Brooks and Reid Hill sit on a picnic blanket at Roswell Area Park to celebrate the Fourth of July.

See FOURTH, Page 23

OPINION

See FIREWORKS, Page 24

DR. INGRID REYES

DR. NATU MMBAGA

DR. ANNIE KIM

DR. ZIN ALONSO

404.446.2496 | WWW.REYESOBGYN.COM

Business owner crafts calm in the chaos

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Traci Foreman, Chris Foreman and John Hanley watch fireworks in Wills Park July 4.

► PAGE 8

DR. NADA MEGALLY

EMILY DIXON, CNM

DR. MIRANDA LONG

8TH YEAR IN A ROW!

THANK YOU!

KEIANNA HALEY, CNM

SKYLER JACOBS, CNM

MIMI SONG, CNM

KATIE VAUGHN, CNM

KRISTINE RAYNARD, CNM

ALPHARETTA | JOHNS CREEK | CUMMING

Best OB/GYN DR. TINA LU

DR. NATALIE CLERICUZIO

DR. SHELLEY ZIPPAY

KRISTI PRESLEY, WHNP

JOANNE LEE, FNP

AMBER BECKER, WHNP

HEMALI PATEL, WHNP

Residents celebrate, remember meaning behind Juneteenth

By JON WILCOX | jon@appenmedia.com

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Brandy White holds her 1-year-old daughter, Lennon, at the entrance to her Sawnee Mountain Biscuit Company on 13th Street just outside Cumming.

“We focus on personal, compassionate care”

EMILY CHUNG, FNP

PAIGE MAROLF, WHNP

LANA WERTZ, CNM

ERICA RICHMOND, CNM

LAURA WIESE, CNM

ROI

matters.

See SHERIFF, Page 12

Partner with Appen Local Media: Local: Print | Websites | Email Newsletters | Podcasts Use the power of trusted local to grow your business. APPEN Marketing: 770-442-3278 Advertising@AppenMedia.com

Greenhouse complex- Across from the Skate Park in Brookrun Park, Dunwoody

S e p t e m b e r 2 5 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 0 , N o . 3 9

County restores original funding to cultural arts

Children play in the lawn at Newtown Park during a Juneteenth celebration in Johns Creek June 21. JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

See JUNETEENTH, Page 10

ATLANTA — Fulton County Jail employee has been indicted in federal court for allegedly using excessive force against prisoners. The 47-year-old sergeant is accused of repeatedly using tasers on compliant, nonresisting pre-trial detainees on three occa-

Dunwoody opens doors to refine future land-use By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

PHOTOS BY: HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Commercial partners and city celebrate new path By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

See FULTON, Page 20

Fulton jail staff faces civil rights indictments By DAVE WILLIAMS Capitol Beat

April 10, 2025 | AppenMedia.com | An Appen Media Group Publication | Ser ving the community since 1976

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

By JON WILCOX | jon@appenmedia.com

County considers funding for sheriff’s training facility Two-year-old Cameron holds a beach ball at the City of Roswell Fourth of July celebration at Roswell Area Park.

► PAGE 5

2024 DR. JOHN REYES

Biscuit eatery rises to meet high demand

See BISCUIT, Page 6

County delays closing Alpharetta jail site

Pitts: Raising millage rate would be mistake

► PAGE 4

J u n e 2 6 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 9 , N o . 2 6

M ay 1 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 9 , N o . 1 8

Life Time Perimeter revives health club site ► PAGE 4

Summer Veggies Annuals Pollinator Plants and So Much More! Friday April 11- Sunday April 13

Your Trusted Real Estate Expert

RACHEL PROVOW

Doggie-paddle Pets enjoy cool, pool party at Last Splash Puppy Bash

2025

SEE THE WINNERS INSIDE

Miniature goldendoodle Lexi cools off at the Milton city pool on Sept. 13. Canine companions gathered there to celebrate summer’s end. See the story and more photos from Sarah Donehoo on page 18.

Your Trusted Real Estate Expert

RONY GHELERTER C: 703.899.6663 | Rony@HOMEgeorgia.com | @ronygsellsatlanta

A look down the completed phase one of the Ashford Dunwoody Road path April 3 shows the two-way cycle track parallel to the revamped sidewalk.

See PATH, Page 17

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs announced that the Billboard Music Award-winning band Lit is headlining Friday night Sept. 26 at the third annual Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival. The festival will take place in the heart of Sandy Springs Friday, Sept. 26, from 4-10 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Lit is an American rock band from Orange County,

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Realignment construction begins on Hammond-Boylston intersection

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED

Sandy Springs said Billboard Music Award-winning band, Lit, is headlining this year’s festival Sept. 26-27 at City Springs.

Indicted superintendent resigns

404-403-6561 C | 770-394-2131 O RobinBlass.com

770-442-3278 | advertising@appenmedia.com

Early voting ends Oct. 31 for municipal elections ► PAGE 4

See story on Page 22

Wild Nest Bird Rehab finds roost at Legacy Park

► PAGE 24

See BOYLSTON, Page 8

Atlanta Perimeter Office | 4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road | Atlanta, GA 30338

Hundreds attend Intown Ace Hardware’s annual Ladies Night ► PAGE 14

DeKalb School Board faces tough questions as district finds itself at crossroads

DEAN HESSE/APPEN MEDIA

#1 SMALL TEAM COMPANYWIDE 2024 JANHARTGROUP.COM

INSIDE

Residents trying to pump brakes on I-285 express lane

Education ANSWER BOOK 2025

An Appen Media Group Publication

► PAGE 12

See LIT, Page 9

October 23, 2025 | Decaturish.com | Locally Sourced News | An Appen Media Group Publication | Volume 1, No. 13

ROBIN BLASS

GEORGIA RAE HART | REALTOR® c: 678.266.8241 o: 404.480.HOME

Billboard Music Award winner to headline Sandy Springs fest By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

Put Our Experience To Work For You JAN HART | REALTOR® c: 678.596.3684 o: 404.480.HOME

A u g u s t 2 1 , 2 0 2 5 | 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 4 , N o . 3 4

See REFINE, Page 17

Decaturish

2 Decades Decades of of Experience Experience 22Circle Decades of Experience Circle of of Excellence Excellence Circle of Excellence Recipient Recipient Recipient CALL JAN HART FOR ALL CALL JAN HART FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE CALL JAN HART FORNEEDS ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

9am-4pm (Fri & Sat) 11am-3pm (Sun)

inSIDEoutPaintCenters.com

J u l y 1 0 , 2 0 2 5 | 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 4 3 , N o . 2 8

Spring Plant Sale!

ink

Charity golf tournament honors beloved founder

THE PAINT PROS AND HOMEOWNERS HAVE TRUSTED FOR GENERATIONS.

FREE PAINT FRIDAY!

Scan QR to Learn More or to Book!

678-831-4949

MAKING DECATUR FEEL GREATER

WE CAN HELP YOU: REGAIN MOBILITY PREVENT INJURY IMPROVE SPORTS PERFORMANCE ELIMINATE PAIN & STIFFNESS

50% OFF FIRST STRETCH Locals Only

Soaring high Atlanta International School set to open new campus, marks 40th anniversary Pages 20-22

24 | October 15, 2026 | Forsyth Herald | AppenMedia.com/Forsyth

SELL YOUR GOLD & UNWANTED JEWELRY G O L D & J E W E L RY B U Y I N G E V E N T

November 11th - 13th

GET CASH FOR YOUR GOLD & JEWELRY. Or choose store credit and receive 20% more.

WHAT WE BUY • Gold & Silver Jewelry

• Gemstone Jewelry

• Platinum Jewelry

• Watches

• Diamond Jewelry

• Coins & Bullion

• Loose Diamonds

• Sterling Silver Flatware

Rolex & Luxury Watches Tiffany & Co. • Cartier • Van Cleef

Schedule your Appointment: (770) 809-6218 | iroff.com 3960 Old Milton Parkway 300 Alpharetta, GA 30005