Life In Forsyth

Faces, Facts & Photos 2015 Photo Contest Presented by:

See inside for more of this year’s winners

We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care.

Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people choose Northside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care.

Visit us online at www.northside.com

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

Vince Johnson Publisher Kevin Atwill Editor Ryan Garmon Advertising Director Angie Decker Graphic Design Kayla Robins Kelly Whitmire Megan Reed Micah Green Writers Tracie Pike Paginator

I’d like to welcome you to the 2015 edition of the Forsyth County News’ annual ‘Life in Forsyth’ magazine.

It’s a tradition that documents the state of living in Forsyth County through the eyes of our citizens. We strive to provide both newcomers and longtime residents with information and visuals that might make living your life in Forsyth just a little bit better.

This year, we’ve taken on the ambitious task of providing you with not only the information that Forsyth residents probably already know, but also with tidbits and factoids about Forsyth living that may surprise you.

We’ve also included numerous photos, as submitted and voted upon by you, our readers. These photos represent the authenticity of the times, with smiling faces, great events and beautiful settings within Forsyth County.

These photos come from your neighbors, your friends or maybe even yourself. It’s the community connection and engagement that reflects our culture at the Forsyth County News.

We want to be a part of your lives. Whether through our newspaper, our magazines, our website, our Facebook and Twitter pages, or directly to your cellphone, we want to inform you, to entertain you and to, occasionally, inspire you.

We are proud to be a part of you, Forsyth County. And we’re proud that more of you are a part of us than ever before.

Together, we prepare to march forward. But for just a moment, we reflect on 2015 ‘Life in Forsyth.’

Recreation �������������������������������������8

Retail ���������������������������������������������21

Education �������������������������������������11

Youth ��������������������������������������������28

Health �������������������������������������������15

Family fun �������������������������������������32

Vince Johnson, Publisher

Life in Forsyth

is published annually by the Forsyth County News, 302 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30040.

Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request.

Contact Ryan Garmon at (770) 205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com.

Follow us online at forsythnews.com

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

ON THE COVER, clockwise from top left.

Chilling at Pooles Mill Photo by Aaron Cole. Pooles Mill Bridge with Aeden Cole.

Refreshing treat Photo by Jen Bochis. Demetri having a refreshing treat while waiting for the fireworks to begin.

Blake at the lake! Photo by Mark Wilson. Blake the dog and my daughter Sara Wilson.

Thank you! Photo by Steven Cowart. Korean War Veteran.

Tradition. Photo by Brittany McGowan. Fourth of July steam engine parade.

If Honda makes it...Lou Sobh discounts it!

www.LouSobhHonda.com

Giant Honda Celebration Savings Are Yours!

Adding Up Huge Deals for You for a Quarter of a Century!

Awarded

People’s Choice Award Winner

for 2015

Celebrating 25 years serving the Atlanta area and our second year in Cumming! Enjoy our all new sales & service facility just off GA 400.

SALES: Mon - Fri 9AM–9AM, Sat- 9AM–8PM, Sun Noon - 6PM SERVICE: Mon. - Fri. 7AM–7PM, Sat 8AM–5PM

1105 BUFORD RD, CUMMING•770-813-1995

Life in Forsyth | 2015

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LIFE IN F 6

Life in Forsyth | 2015

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FORSYTH Photos by Micah Green Forsyth County News Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Summer beauty Photo by: Michelle Chamblee

Description: Samantha Chamblee among the giant sunflowers.

Voters’ Choice 1st Place Recreation It’s no secret that among the most popular reasons for moving to or settling in Forsyth County is the area’s natural beauty.

Though considered part of the metro Atlanta region, Forsyth’s waterways, trails and mountains give it a much more serene feel than some of its neighbors.

The natural resources not only draw newcomers, but offer residents many ways to enjoy the outdoors without having to travel too far.

• One of the county’s longest amenities is the Big Creek Greenway, which stretches 6.4 miles between its trailheads at McFarland Parkway and Bethelview Road.

But did you know...

There are plans to expand the greenway to reach Sawnee Mountain, thus making it possible to walk or bike from the Fulton County line to north Forsyth.

• Lake Sidney Lanier has more than 693 miles of shoreline.

But did you know...

About 30 percent of that is in Forsyth County. And that the lake reaches a depth of up to 160 feet in points.

• Sawnee Mountain, located just north of Cumming, is the highest point in the county at an elevation of 1,946 feet.

But did you know...

Forsyth County’s government owns 963 acres of the mountain.

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

Cumming

PLUS OOL OR P DS O D T KEN Y OU WEE A OPEN LABOR D L I T N U

• Birthday Parties • Group & Private Swim Lessons • Year Round Swim Teams • 2 Indoor Pools Open Year Round • Adult Open Swim • Lap Swim

✦ 156 foot water slide ✦ Lazy River ✦ Children’s Splash Play Area ✦ Concession Stand is Open!

August 8th - September 6th Sat & Sun only: Sat: Two sessions 10:00am-2:00pm/2:30pm-6:30pm Sun: One session 1:00pm-6:00pm September 7th (Labor Day) One session 1:00pm-6:00pm Labor Day: Last day of the season

201 Aquatic Circle, Cumming, GA 30040 770-781-1781 • cac2@cityofcumming.net www.cummingaquaticcenter.com

F

rom a small family business started in 1949 by Leland Bagwell, American Proteins has grown to become the world’s largest processor of allied poultry products. As a visionary, Mr. Bagwell saw a need and was determined to fill it.

He recognized the need to recycle byproducts generated by the integrated poultry industry which was in its infancy.

Mr. Bagwell passed away in 1972 leaving his wife Clarice, and son, Tommy, to oversee the family business. Mrs. Bagwell remained very active in the business until her death in September 2001. Tommy Bagwell currently serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Once a single poultry-protein conversion plant, American Proteins is now an international operation with global interests in protein and lipid productions. The company currently has four factories: one in north Georgia, one in south Georgia and two in north Alabama that manufacture various protein and high energy ingredients for livestock poultry

and pet food diets. Through the years, American Proteins has shaped their history of success - a combination of foresight innovation and a business philosophy that strongly emphasizes service and value to customers. Today, the company stands at the brink of an exciting new era of industry and environmental leadership. American Proteins’ first allegiance will always be to provide their customers with the level of service that means the right product at the right time. They are committed to producing quality products that set the standard for the industry through innovation and advanced technology. They are also committed to responsibility and respect for the environment. They will continue to search out the knowledge and technology that will allow them to build on their record of environmental excellence. American Proteins intends to be an essential link not only in the food processing chain but as a business partner, employer and neighbor in Forsyth.

Supporting Our State, Youth & Community Since 19509 Life in Forsyth | 2015

Photo By: Kendra Templeton • Lake Lanier has a national reputation for striped bass, known to anglers as stripers.

But did you know...

“Hee Haw” cast member Junior Samples, a Cumming native, was known for his comedy routine “The World’s Largest Whopper” about the biggest bass in Lake Lanier. The fish, which Samples claimed to have eaten and thus had no proof, reportedly weighed 22 pounds 9 ounces.

— Kelly Whitmire

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

(678) 947-4040

www.ScottsAutoCenter.net 820 Peachtree Pkwy I Cumming, GA 30041 Business Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00a-6:00p I Sat: 8:00a-3:00p

“Our reputatiOn rides On everything We dO”

Education Living in Forsyth County cannot be complete without a nod to the local public school system.

There are myriad ways to measure the success of Forsyth County Schools, but any level of examination can produce the forgone conclusion that the schools here are good. Really good.

In fact, families move to Forsyth County specifically to send their children to any of the 35 public schools or multitude of private schools, and adults take advantage of post-secondary educational options at the local campuses of Lanier Technical College and the University of North Georgia.

Most of us probably already knew that.

But did you know...

Forsyth County Schools has welcomed 16,805 new students and built 12 new schools in the past 10 years? That doesn’t include the three new schools (Brandywine Elementary, DeSana Middle and Denmark High) that broke ground this summer.

Photo By: Isa Diestler

Your Home for

Better Health.

Family Practice • Pediatrics • Obstetrics • Prenatal Care • Family Planning Highlands Pharmacy On-Site Certified Application Counselors for the Health Insurance Marketplace *We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most Major Insurance Sliding Fee Scale Program available to those who qualify*

Serving Forsyth, Cherokee, and Bartow Counties since 1979, GHMS is open to anyone – regardless of income, insurance status, or language spoken. We are currently accepting new patients.

GHMS-Cumming Family Health Center 260 Elm Street, Cumming, GA 30040

770.887.1668

Office Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:30pm Thursday: 8:00am-7:30pm Friday 8:00am – 12pm | Saturday: 9am-1pm Pharmacy Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6:30pm | Sat 9am-3pm (Closed daily for lunch 1pm-1:30pm)

Photo By: Chris Burton

GHMS-Canton Family Health Center 220 Oakside Lane, Canton, GA 30114

678.807.1050

GHMS-Bartow Family Health Center 775 West Avenue, Ste A, Cartersville, GA 30120

470.315.4689

Office Hours:

Office Hours:

Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:30pm

Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:30pm

Thursday: 10:00am-7:30pm | Friday

Thursday: 10:00am-7:30pm

8:00am-12pm

Friday 8:00am-12pm

www.ghms-inc.org • info@ghms-inc.org Life in Forsyth | 2015

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• The district’s average SAT score was 1568.

But did you know...

That is higher than both the state and national averages last year. And the highest among Georgia’s 15 largest districts (Forsyth is the state’s seventh largest).

• The district graduated 90.3 percent of its seniors in 2014.

But did you know...

That is the highest among the 20 largest districts in Georgia.

• We know that traffic is a countywide concern and that our low school taxes just increased a notch.

But did you know...

Last school year, 320 bus drivers traveled 4.4 million miles to transport 64 percent of the student population to and from school.

• There’s constant population growth, yes.

But did you know...

It takes one year to build an elementary or middle school and two for a high school. That’s after the school system must prove to the state it is at or above capacity and gets approved to build.

• Forsyth’s millage rate is on the rise, no secret there.

But did you know...

That its rate of 16.3 mills for fiscal year 2015 was more than 2-3 mills lower than Fulton, Hall, Cobb, Cherokee and Gwinnett counties.

• Those school taxes fund the budget.

But did you know...

More than 80 percent will be spent on teacher and non-central office salaries and benefits next year. Of those teachers and any certified staff, almost three quarters have a master’s degree or higher.

• You likely know teachers help promote high performance and the application of new technology in the classroom.

But did you know...

The district recorded an average of 37,600 daily BYOT (bring your own technology) connections and 1.6 million daily itslearning logins last year.

— Kayla Robins 12

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Photo by: Peggie Morrow

770.781.4922 Ages 2 & Up!

Dance, Music, Voice & Theater Classes Available!

3 Convenient Cumming Locations!

419 Tribble Gap Road 1676 Buford Highway 230 Elm Street

Insta

www.facebook.com/cummingdanceacademy

Register For Classes Online!

Saturday Classes, Adult Classes, Sibling Discounts, Viewing Windows, Experitise Instruction & Customer Service!

FIRST MONTH FREE! (Up To $50 Tuition Value)

Must present coupon at time of registration.

Valid only for new registrations and certain stipulations may apply.

OFFER EXPIRES 7/31/16

www.cummingdanceacademy.com

Family At Emory Johns Creek Hospital, we’ve found that when someone suffers from an illness or disease it impacts the whole family.

So bringing families into the healing process is critically important. As a full-service hospital in your community providing academically based health care right in your back yard, we not only focus on delivering effective and timely care, we also strive to support the family and include them in the treatment. The fact is, if one member of a family has a serious illness or injury, it affects the whole family.

As part of the Emory Healthcare Network, we provide immediate, local access to more than 700 physicians in 54 specialties and are part of Emory’s broad network of six hospitals, 1,800 physicians and 200 provider locations. Learn more at emoryhealthcare.org/together.

emoryjohnscreek.com 678-474-8200

Photo Contest Winner Boating on the Chattahoochee River Photo by: Amber Cloy, submitted by Susan Nierling

Description: My grandson, Jacob Branham, fishing in his wheelbarrow boat in the Chattahoochee below Buford Dam on a spring morning.

Dr. Steele is a Board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist with emphasis on skin, hair and body.

Dr. Steele and the entire staff at Steele Dermatology operate with the basic philosophy that we all want to look, feel, and be our best. As a dermatology practice, we specialize in caring for the most superficial aspects of the body, the skin, hair and nails. We understand that your dermatologic issues take on a unique level and type of importance because they are visible... to you and the world.

Dr. Steele takes your medical concerns seriously and offers the most advanced and skilled medical care only available from a board certified expert in dermatology.

Accepting new patients of all ages.

To schedule an appointment call,

770.464.6000

Photo By: Brittany McGowan

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

www.atlantadermatologists.com 11500 Webb Bridge Way • Alpharetta, GA 30005

Photo Contest Winner Life on the lake Photo by: Kaitlyn Thomas

Description: A bridge over Lake Lanier on a gorgeous day!

Health It’s no secret that Forsyth County is known for its healthy residents. So much so, it has been named Georgia’s healthiest for the past three years.

The County Health Rankings, which are released annually by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, look at factors such as preventable deaths, diet and exercise and found Forsyth County to be at the top.

Forsyth residents’ proximity to health care facilities also boosted the county’s ranking.

• Most residents are well aware that the county is home to Northside Hospital-Forsyth, which has a medical staff of more than 2,300 physicians and 2,200 employees.

But did you know...

The hospital performed

Photo By: Audry Parker

Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Celebrating the Fourth of July Photo by: Tracey Tuggle

Description: Becca Tuggle is celebrating the Fourth in her stars and stripes and with her favorite, a balloon!

Lanier Place

Lanier Place, our senior living community, is known for being warm, inviting, and active. We develop individual care plans to meet the needs of each resident, and a full-time registered nurse is available 24 hours a day to provide clinical oversight and coordination of care. Our residents engage in a variety of activities, such as tai chi, bingo, pool, cards and board games, and yoga. We also offer four church services per week, weekly performances by musical groups, and shopping, dining, and entertainment outings. For senior living in Cumming, Georgia, schedule a visit at Lanier Place today.

10,453 surgeries and had 406,952 patient visits last year.

• The hospital’s addition of the Women’s Center in 2008 has also provided locals with the opportunity to give birth closer to home.

But did you know...

More than 15,000 babies have been born at the center, and 16

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Care Levels • Personal Care • Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory care • Respite Care • Short-Term Stay • Urgent Placement 440 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming,GA30040 (770) 888-1114 • www.enlivant.com

Call (770) 888-1114 for more information or to schedule a tour

West Forsyth HigH ScHool

“We Excel & Succeed Together” Established in 2007

2015 National and State Rankings: We were #30 in Georgia and #544 nationally on The Washington Post’s list.

2015 Advanced Placement Recognition • AP STEM Access School • AP STEM Achievement School • AP Capstone School • AP Humanities School • AP Merit School • 315 AP Scholar Recipients • 909 students took 1,791 AP Exams in May 2015 • 70 % earned a 3, 4,or 5 on Advanced Placement Exams • 39% earned a 4 or 5 on Advanced Placement Exams • Average AP exam score 3.13 Extra-Curricular Highlights • Region 6-AAAAAA member • 11 athletic teams had state play-off appearances • Boys Cross Country and Boys Baseball 2014-15 Region Champions • State and National Recognition for Band, Chorus, Theater, and DECA Class of 2015 • 74% graduates accepted into post-secondary education • 254 honor graduates • Accepted into 89 different colleges, universities and tech schools • 4.9 million non-Hope scholarship offers

Academy United States Coast Guard ty rsi ive Un ern uth So emy ia ad Georg United States Military Ac ty Air Force Academy rsi ive Un te Sta Georgia at West Point Art Institute of Atlanta Tech University ia emy org Ge United States Naval Acad Auburn University State w esa nn Ke ma ba University of Ala Belmont University la Marymount University rida yo Lo University of Central Flo Berry College U LS University of Florida Boise State r University rce Me University of Georgia Boston College ippi State ia iss iss M University of North Georg Brigham Young ty rsi ive Un rpe ina Ogletho University of South Carol Clemson University iversity Un e a rid rdu Flo Pu uth So of University n College of Charleston h College of Art & Desig na an ee Sav ess nn University of Te Cornell University Standford ia ty rsi ive ty University of West Georg Un rsi State Unive Florida State xas Te ty rsi Unive Georgia College & State Tulane University ty rsi ive Un ts Georgia Regen Life in Forsyth | 2015 17

2,859 were born there last year.

• In addition to Northside, the county’s health department also provides medical care to local residents.

The department’s clinic on Canton Highway provides several services including immunizations, physicals, checkups, nutrition programs and dental care.

But did you know...

The clinic had 20,455 total visits last year, with nearly 11,000 unique clients. And more than 2,700 people also went to the clinic for their flu vaccines.

• Forsyth County also boasts a high amount of mental health care providers.

But did you know...

There is one mental health professional for every 2,246 residents. That’s more than double the state average, according to last year’s County Health Rankings.

• Another factor likely contributing to the health of local residents is the cleanliness of the water supply.

But did you know...

According to the County Health Rankings, none of the local residents were potentially exposed to water exceeding a violation limit last year. That’s compared to the state average of 13 percent of the county population.

— Megan Reed

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

Georgetown Pediatrics has been Serving the Atlanta Community since 1968.

We are comprised of six board certified pediatricians and four certified nurse practitioners waiting to meet your children’s medical needs. Our initial office was located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Dunwoody; hence the name Georgetown Pediatrics. Since our inception, we have expanded to our four locations in Alpharetta, Cumming, Johns Creek, and Dunwoody.

Alpharetta Office:

Cumming Office:

Dunwoody Office:

Johns Creek Office:

3400A Old Milton Parkway

Suite 510 Alpharetta, GA 30005

416 Pirkle Ferry Road Suite J300 Cumming, GA 30040

11 Dunwoody Park Suite 190 Dunwoody, GA 30338

6300 Hospital Parkway Suite 125 Johns Creek, GA 30097

(770) 475-2233

(770) 889-9142

(770) 392-6555

(770) 814-8883

SPECIAL OFFICE HOURS: Saturday (Alpharetta) Sick appointments only: 8:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Early Morning (John’s Creek) Tuesdays open at 7:30 a.m.

Evening (Alpharetta) Wednesdays until 7:00 p.m

Visit us on the web at www.georgetownpediatrics.com Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Sawnee Mountain Indian Seats Photo by: John Lunsford

Description: Picture of the Sawnee Mountain Indian seats taken in summer 2014.

nting Presen r Spo so

IPRA ROD

EO SEPT. 4-5 @ 8pm SEPT. 6 @ 7pm

OCTOBER 8TH-18TH

HOURS

Monday-Thursday: 4pm-10pm Northside Hospital Forsyth Day (Free Admission) • $20 Unlimited Rides Friday: 4pm-Midnight TBD concert @ 8pm Saturday: 10am-Midnight Free Admission & Rides (10 am-11am) • $25 Unlimited Rides Must be purchased Sunday: 12:30pm-9pm between 11am-3pm (Valid until closing) Admission Sunday, October 11th: Senior Citizen Day (Free Admission 55 & up) • Adults: $7.00, Students 5-18: $3.00, 12:30pm-2pm Students 18 under admitted FREE & ride FREE w/ school coupon 4 and under: FREE Monday, October 12th: Student Night (Free Admission 18 & under) • $15 Unlimited Rides Parking : $3.00 Tuesday, October 13th: Corey Smith in concert @ 8pm • $20 Unlimited Rides Advanced Tickets Available Sept. 1st-30th Wednesday, October 14th: Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Day (Free Admission) • $20 Unlimited Rides Adults: $5.00, Students 5-18: $2.00 Marvel Heroes Show @ 5pm & 7:30pm • Parade @ 6pm Thursday, October 15th: Joe Diffie in concert @ 8pm No Pets, Coolers Friday, October 16th: Football Friday Night (FREE Admission after 9pm w/ a 10/16/15 high school football ticket stub) or Alcohol Saturday, October 17th: FREE Admission & Rides (10am-11am) • $25 Unlimited Rides Must be purchased between 11am-3pm (Valid until closing) • American Bull Riding Tour @ 8pm Platinum Sunday, October 18th: 12:30pm-2pm Students 18 under admitted FREE & ride FREE w/ school coupon • Sponsor American Bull Riding Tour 6pm

Thursday, October 8th : Friday, October 9th : Saturday, October 10th:

235 CASTLEBERRY ROAD, CUMMING GEORGIA 770-781-3491 • www.cummingfair.net 20

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Retail Commuters may not live, work, shop and play all in Forsyth.

More for the rest of us, because there’s plenty to choose from right at home.

While the outlet stores of Dawsonville and Atlanta’s massive malls lay just outside the county, local residents know there are vast retail and restaurant choices nestled within our boundaries.

• Residents quickly learn that the shopping centers are centralized in Cumming and the county’s southern half. They include the bustling Market Place Boulevard corridor, Lakeland and Tri-County plazas, The Collection at Forsyth and stretches of Hwy. 141 in south Forsyth.

But did you know...

There are 179 places you can shop for a new wardrobe. That’s including men’s, women’s and

Forsyth Central High School Cafeteria

Top Quality, Name Brands, NEW with Factory Warranties!

Simmons Beautyrest | Restonic | Southerland | & many more!

Save an extra $50 off any set over $199 Must show this advertisement at the sale for discount!

Cash | Check | Credit Card | FREE 90-Day Layaway | Delivery Available For questions prior to or after the sale date, email Keith Cumming at keith@cfsnatlanta.com Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Climbing Sawnee Mountain Photo by: Butch Latimer; submitted

by Penny Latimer

Description: Raegan and Brantley climbed Sawnee Mountain with their Poppy, Butch Latimer.

Thank You for voting us #1 in Forsyth!

A proud supporter of Forsyth County Schools.

Call to schedule your complimentary vein screening

Most major insurances accepted for Vein procedures.

678-513-1600

Chemical Peel

Cumming | 4415 Front Nine Dr. Ste. 600 Photo By: Branda Peterson 22

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Peter Wrobel, M.D.

www.NorthGeorgiaVein.com

a m F e il y & C l t n e G osm

etic Dentistry

Dr. M. Budeir, DDS Full Cosmetic Dental Treatment • Restore Implants • Comfortable Dentistry with laughing gas • Zoom! In-Office Teeth Whitening • Periodontal Gum Treatment Welcome to Our Neighborhood Office Gift for You! Valid with paid new patient exam, cleaning & x-ray

FREE Complimentary Take-Home Tooth Whitening Kit* or

FREE & Complimentary NEW Patient Exam & Digital X-Rays $210 Value!

Our patients give us 5 star reviews

www.avenue-dental.com/patient-reviews

2 per household with paid adult or child cleaning.

New patient only special, may not be combined with any other offers, *while supplies last. Expires 08/2016

770-888-4444 983 Peachtree Parkway Suite C Cumming, GA 30041

www.avenue-dental.com

1.3 mile on left Hwy. 141 P’tree Pkwy.

Please scan with your mobile device for more info.

Exit 13 400 N Life in Forsyth | 2015

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children’s retail stores and general department stores.

• Forsyth County is known as a place people move to from all over the country and world. The makeup of the cuisine choices mirror the idea that many, if not most, residents located here from somewhere else.

Eateries give them the option to either find what is familiar or to explore new bites.

But did you know...

There are 240 restaurants with business licenses in the county? Of those at least 91 are considered fastfood options.

• You may suspect that Mexican food is a popular dining choice.

But did you know...

There are about 37 such restaurants in Forsyth.

• There are 35 American restaurants and 21 breakfast joints, cafes or biscuit places.

But did you know...

There are more Subways — (17) than any other eatery. The next closest establishment is McDonald’s at 10.

Lee’s Nails &Spa

Professional Nail Care for Ladies & Gentleman

770-886-1539

Mon-Fri: 10am-8pm | Sat: 9:30am-7pm | Sun: 12pm-6pm

Walk-ins Welcome

Thank You for making us #1!

Publix Shopping Center 580 Atlanta Rd. Suite 231A | Cumming, GA 30040

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

(770) 886-3555

wwww.npobgyn.com Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Walking on water Photo by: Kiersten Pedersen

Description: Kamden Pedersen jumps into Lake Lanier.

• Asian restaurants (18) can be easily found, too.

But did you know...

Chinese cuisines accounts for 12 of those. And if you’re in the mood for pizza, you have at least 35 locations to choose from.

— Kayla Robins • Note: Numbers are approximate and do not include the Cumming city limits.

• Source: Forsyth County Department of Planning and Community Development Business License office

FORSYTH COUNTY

WOMEN’S CLUB

Whether you are a newcomer to the Forsyth County area or have lived here a while and finally have time to get out and socialize - FCWC is the best way to meet new friends and get involved in fun activities and interesting groups.

VISIT US AT OUR NEXT MONTHLY LUNCHEON AUGUST 20th As a prospective new member you are welcome to attend as a guest at one of our monthly luncheons held every third Thursday at 11:00 am at a cost of $22. These events are held at:

Photo By: Christina Collis 26

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Drive, Cumming, 30041 For more information visit our website at www.Forsythcountywomensclub.net or contact us at forsythcountywomensclub@gmail.com xxxx_x_forsythWomensClub_LifeinForsyth july2015

Cumming Dental Associates Family Dentistry & Orthodontics

770-781-8650 www.cummingdental.com

Dr. Susan Kramer Dr. Kevin Short Dr. Blake Upshaw Dr. Susan Swain Dr. Alexandria McTier Dr.Teresa Esker Dr. Javid Yavari - Orthodontist

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME EMERGENCY CARE Care Credit® Financing

• Cosmetic & Whitening Services • Braces / Invisalign • Root Canals • Implants / Mini Implants • Most Insurance Accepted • Oral Medication for Anxiety • Nitrous Oxide / Laughing Gas • Oral Surgery / Wisdom Teeth • Botox/Dermal Filler • TMJ Treatment Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner Fun at the fair Photo by: Lindsey Brumfield

Description: Two friends having a fantastic time at the Cumming Country Fair & Festival!

Youth With about 29 percent of Forsyth County’s population being 18 or younger, there are plenty of families looking for activities for their children, and the county delivers.

No matter what your child is interested in, they are sure to find someone in Forsyth who will teach them how to do it and help them have fun in the process.

Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer

The Board Certified specialists at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates are experts in colon cancer screenings and evaluating and treating every type of digestive disorder, including: • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis • Intestinal Polyps

• Acid Reflux | Ulcers • Barrett’s Esophagus • Irritable Bowel Syndrome

David A. Atefi, MD

Sagar S. Garud, MD, MS

E. C. (Chris) Cameron, MD

Yasmin K. Karim, MD

• Constipation | Diarrhea • Liver Disease | Hepatitis • Hemorrhoids

Joel Camilo, MD

Kamil Obideen, MD

With two convenient locations in your area, getting the care you need has never been easier.

Cumming 1505 Northside Boulevard | 770.781.4010

Dawsonville 81 Northside Dawson Drive | 770.781.4010

Now Offering Pediatric and Adolescent Care Located in Alpharetta and Sandy Springs

www.atlantagastro.com | 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242] AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

• Local businesses and organizations provide youth with the opportunity to pursue everything from team sports to perform in a theater production at the Cumming Playhouse.

But did you know...

Georgia’s largest soccer program calls Forsyth home. United Futbol Academy boasts an enrollment of about 4,200 players.

The academy offers programs at the recreational, academy and select levels to best suit each player’s needs, and the TOPSoccer program gives disabled athletes the opportunity to get on the field too.

• For kids interested in dance, Cumming Dance Academy has three locations on Tribble Gap Road and Elm

The Cumming Playhouse proudly presents...

Smoke On The Mountain October 1 - 25, 2015

Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus.

Pastor Oglethorpe, the young and enthusiastic minister of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, has enlisted the Sanders Family in his efforts to bring his tiny congregation into “the modern world.” Between songs, each family member “witnesses” -- telling a story about an important event in their life.

Though they try to appear perfect in the eyes of a congregation who wants to be inspired by their songs, one thing after another goes awry and they reveal their true — and hilariously imperfect — natures. By the evening’s end, the Sanders Family have endeared themselves to us by revealing their weaknesses and allowing us to share in their triumphs.

Presented fall 2015 by Swan Rise Productions, under the direction of Jeneen Hammond

101 School Street Cumming, GA 30041

770.781.9178 Doctor Faustus

CATS

October 29-November 1, 2015 T, F, S 8:00pm & Sun 3:00pm MAT $15 + tax

November 19-December 13, 2015 T, F, S 8:00pm & Sun 3:00pm

Presented by Rispa Theatrical Productions

For a complete listing of shows, visit

www.playhousecumming.com Photo By: Audry Parker Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Photo Contest Winner

Sisters in Arms ladies shooting group

Photo by: Liza Palmer

Description: Some of the members of the Sisters In Arms ladies shooting group that meets at Bulls Eye Marksman Gun Club. We learn new skills, do target shooting drills, practice for competitions, and support and encourage each other. Sherri, Alisa, Nancy, Lyn, Jaime, Brenda, Sharon, Lynn, Liza, Sandra, Sally and Vicki.

Leading the Way in Exceptional Senior Care Oaks Senior Living is a different kind of senior living community - a difference which comes from the many extra things that we do every day. The love, compassion, and understanding that can only come from a dedicated family and staff is what sets us apart from the rest.

Come for a visit and experience what a true family operated Senior Living Community can mean.

We’re committed to serving with faith, knowledge, compassion and love! ~The Salabarria Family The Oaks at Post Road

Assisted living and Memory Care 3875 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 770-886-2630 OaksSeniorLiving.com

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

Horizons Memory Care Horizons is dedicated to providing a positive and enriching environment for those with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias.

Street in downtown Cumming and at Trammel Road and Buford Highway in east Forsyth.

But did you know...

Classes include ballet, jazz, tap and hip hop, and the average size is about 10-14 dancers.

• There are also options for those who want to learn to act, sing or play an instrument. Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts on Industrial Way offers classes in improvisation, acting, musical theater, voice and piano.

But did you know...

The academy has a black box rehearsal space, and owner and artistic director Leigh Ann Cannady also owns Pie in the Sky Productions.

Pie in the Sky has previously brought “Oklahoma” and “The Marvelous Wonderettes” to the Cumming Playhouse, along with this summer’s “Annie Get Your Gun.” Students can hone their skills at the academy and then apply what they learned at a show at Cumming’s historic theater.

• Another business catering to musically inclined kids is Music Authority, located in Merchants Square.

Music Authority offers lessons in bass, drums, guitar, mandolin, piano, strings, ukulele, voice and woodwinds.

But did you know...

Students can also attend Rock Camp over the summer, where they form a band, learn songs and then perform for a live audience.

— Megan Reed

STILL your locally owned Community Bank since 1997 Ranked in the Top 25 Performing Banks in the State of Georgia, published in the Atlanta Business Chronicle, March 2015 Ranked 72 out of the Top 200 Community Banks in the Nation, published in the American Banker Magazine, May 2015

www.citizbank.com 770-886-9500 Life in Forsyth | 2015

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Family fun

Photo By: Erika Seek

It’s easy to get caught up Forsyth County’s outdoor allure, but it’s also easy to tire from it in the dead heat of summer or the bitter sting of winter.

From the historic Cumming Playhouse to the county’s extensive and engaging library system, there is always something going on, and it’s probably not too far from your front door.

• Since opening as Cumming Public School in 1923, the building that houses the Cumming Playhouse has been a staple in downtown Cumming, but it wasn’t until 2004 that it produced its first show. It has since seen more than 300 productions.

But did you know...

The playhouse also houses hundreds of items relevant to Cumming and Forsyth County history, check it out on your next visit.

Have you ever thought about

your child’s first experience with surgery?

For most kids, it’s their wisdom teeth.

Come to a plaCe where your child is car ed for like family by a team of professionals with a slew of teenagers of their own — where kindness, compassion and patience still make a difference. as far as recovery is concerned, we’re a place where dry sockets are exceptionally rare and caring hands and hearts are immediately there for even the slightest struggles. we offer a place where the most concerning potential complications have been minimized. Visit us to see why so many area dentists, physicians and hospital employees wouldn’t tr ust anyone else when it comes to car ing for their own kids.

Paul M. Korb, D.M.D., P.C. Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Over Twenty Years Experience Managing Nervous Teenagers, Calming Anxious Parents and Making the Toughest Wisdom Teeth Look Easy

excellence &

compassion

4355 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 530 • Suwanee • 770-495-9193 • PaulKorb.com 32

Life in Forsyth | 2015

Photo Contest Winner Summertime fun Photo by: Laura Philips

Description: Ethan having a blast in the water at Port Royale Marina! It was supposed to be a quick lunch, but turned into a water day.

Healthy services.

Healthy savings.

MassageEnvy.com • Convenient Hours • Franchises Available M-F 8am-10pm, Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 10am-8pm

JOHNS CREEK 2627 Peachtree Pkwy. behind Taco Mac next to Target (678) 208-0680

Photo by: Ruby Brancato

CUMMING TOWN CENTER 2065 Market Place Blvd. in front of Best Buy (678) 208-2888

*See clinic for details. Rates and services may vary by location and session. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2013 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.

Georgia Licensed Massage Therapists

Life in Forsyth | 2015

3456_1_massageEnvy011914_BG

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Photo By: Kristi Weaver • The Forsyth County Public Library System currently has four locations: Cumming Library, Hampton Park, Post Road and Sharon Forks. Each branch hosts events on a weekly basis, and are especially active during the summer.

But did you know...

In 2014, there were more than 611,000 visits to Forsyth County Public Library branches, more than 2.3 million items checked out, more than 211,000 information questions answered by staff, and more than 89,000 patrons attending library programs. (according to their website, not sure how you want me to cite it) • The outdoor area of the Cumming Aquatic Center may only be open for the summer months, but with two massive indoor pools — a 50-meter competition pool and a 25-yard instructional pool — open seven days a week to the public. It also hosts the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, an innovative health, exercise and wellness program helping older adults live healthy, active lifestyles.

But did you know...

The Cumming Aquatic Center hosts a USA diving club and three year-round USA swim teams, which offer agegroup and Master’s teams.

— Micah Green

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Life in Forsyth | 2015

Over 25 years helping Buyers & Sellers Ruby Brancato Dedicated, Effective, Dynamic!

Cell: 404-372-0087 Office: 678-341-7400 Fax: 678-341-7899

rubysells@kw.com www.rubyb.com

Buying | Selling | Friendly Advice

COMMUNITY PARTNERS 540 Lake Center Parkway | Ste. 201 Cumming, GA 30040 Each office is independently owned & operated

Summer Sales Blitz 10-25% OFF All In Stock

Come see Gunner!

See You On The Range!

PLATINUM Membership $450 Unlimited Range Time Head of the Line Service 5 Buddy Passes, 2 Free Gun Transfers 3 Gun Purchases at Employee Pricing $8.00 Guest fee per day, Free rental gun usage 15% Off All Merchandise (Except Firearms) Get $50 in Bulls Eye Bucks

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Offer valid August 1st - 15th

6190 Parkway N Dr, • Cumming, GA 30040

678.965.5504

Let Us Spoil You!

Come See

Tanks for 20 Wonderful Years!

Why Fresh is the Best!

Over $2 Million Raised for Community Charities Over 2,911,273 meals served

Sunday Brunch 11:30-2:00

WEEKLY SPECIALS

Lobster Rolls Served Daily Mon - Fried Oyster Caesar Salad Tues - Chef’s Choice Wed - Chef’s Choice Thurs - Prime Rib Fri - BBQ Beef Bones (Philly & French Dip @ Lunch)

Call Ahead Seating r On You y Birthda with ID

$10 Off Lunch, $15 Off Dinner

1/2 Price Bottle Wine Wed. & Thurs.

365 Peachtree Parkway Across from The Collection

770.886.0100

NormansLanding@bellsouth.net

Visit Our Website: www.NormansLanding.com