Johns Creek Art Center Student Art Show Next year the Johns Creek Arts Center might need to consider a shuttle bus to bring patrons to its big November art show. With students and instructors putting their art on display – and for sale – the crowds were big enough. Add a holiday sale from other artists, and the 350 to 400 people who attended overflowed the office park's parking lot, even though none of the offices were open Saturday night.
Handmade Harvest reaps goodwill MILTON – Despite some blustery weather and a sun that refused to peek out no matter what the weatherman said, the Oct. 24 Handmade Harvest was a hit with vendors and the visitors who came out.
Tucked neatly in the Birmingham Village Shoppes shopping center, parking was a snap and friendly artisans chatted amiably about their wares. Sponsored by the Paisley Farmhouse and Allstate, artisans brought their wares ranging from homemade cookies and pastry to handmade patio chairs.
Patrons and vendors say they would love more events at the Birmingham Crossroads.
- Hatcher Hurd
Horses dress up for Halloween FORSYTH COUNTY – At the Equestrian Reserve on Old Alpharetta Road in south Forsyth, a mile or so northest of the McFarland/McGinnis Ferry Road intersection, not only did the young ladies dress up for an Oct. 24 Halloween party – they also decorated the horse stalls and even put costumes on the horses.
For information call 770 205-1230 or visit www.equestrianreserve.com.
Duluth Community Day City officials and local residents celebrated Duluth's new logo and tagline Oct. 24.
Johns Creek Mayor's Ball The Johns Creek Mayor's Ball was held Oct. 24 at the Atlanta Athletic Club.
Greek Fest serves up culture in Forsyth FORSYTH COUNTY – The fifth annual Greek Festival drew hundreds of visitors despite the cool weather, with temperatures as much as 25 degrees colder than during last year’s event.
But those attending at Saints Rafael, Nicholas and Irene Greek Orthodox Church on Bethelview Road enjoyed baklava, koulourakia, lamb, souvlaki and other Greek taste treats.
The Greek Festival serves as both a fundraiser and an opportunity to educate the community about the Orthodox faith. Guided tours of the sancutary helped with that mission.
Third annual Milton Round up goes on despite cold MILTON - Sure, it was only 45 degrees and a wet mist fell steadily, but that doesn't mean folks didn't have fun at the third annual Milton Round Up Oct. 17 at Milton High School. The event had something for everyone, including live music, classic cars, rides, games, food, a marketplace and more.
Cumming Fair and Festival ends CUMMING - Thousands descended upon downtown for the annual Cumming Country Fair and Festival Oct. 8 to Oct. 18 to enjoy rides, music and family-oriented attractions.
Some of the free concerts included Ray Price, the Charlie Daniels Band, Lorrie Morgan and more.
Third Day Family Picnic helps flood victims The thousands of fans who attended the Third Day Family Picnic at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park in Alpharetta last weekend brought plenty of canned goods for the Atlanta Food Bank. And they raised $12,000 for Engage Atlanta, a brand new flood relief charity organization. (Nicole Saffell/Clayton CameraCraft)
Hopewell Baptist Car Show MILTON – Studiously waxed and dazzlingly bright on a brilliant Saturday morning, classic cars from the Ford Model A to the Lamborghini sports car filled the parking lot of Hopewell Baptist Church in Milton.
Vipers poison Patriots FORSYTH COUNTY - The sky may have been gray, but the spirits were very bright after the Vickery Creek Vipers easily overpowered rival Liberty Patriots 27-0.
The playoff game was held at Vickery Creek Middle School, home of the Forsyth County champions for the past two years. The Viper victory propels them once again toward defending their championship title against the Riverwatch Panthers. Vickery Creek will be seeking vengeance on an early season loss to the undefeated Panthers.
Photos by Kevin O'Brien, Split Second Images.
Youth Day Parade stirs Roswell residents Roswell turned out for the 59th annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade. Hundreds of children participated and hundreds more watched the procession through town and ending at Roswell Area Park for fun, games and food.
Floats, bands, funny cars and more delighted families who came to watch.
Rotary Funfest in Alpharetta The eighth annual Alpharetta Rotary Funfest, held Sept. 19, was somewhat of a wash thanks to the downpour that was to turn into flooding just a few days later.
Photos by Johnnie L. Andrews.
2009 Crabapple Antique and Arts Festival CRABAPPLE — An abundance of sunshine and a cool fall Saturday ensured thousands flocked to the Crossroads at Crabapple Antique and Arts Festival held Oct. 3.
The event featured more than 100 artists and antique dealers, each offering their own distinct wares. There was plenty of food, music and fun to be had — and you better believe people took the opportunity.
Photos by Jason Wright.
Riverwatch tops South Forsyth FORSYTH COUNTY - Riverwatch Middle School finished their season undefeated after beating South Forsyth Middle School 35-0 Sept. 29.
Forsyth Senior Talent Show Forsyth seniors showed off their talents Sept. 29 at the Forsyth County Senior Center in Cumming.
Music for Megan a success ALPHARETTA - No amount of rain could stop the annual Music for Megan concert and festival at Wills Park Equestrian Center Sept. 26.
Wolverines squash Saints The 7th grade West Forsyth Wolverines defeated the Sandy Springs Saints 36-6 Sept. 12 at North Springs High School.
Photos by Kevin O'Brien/Split Second Images.
Old Milton Country Fair 2009 Crowds gathered to learn about the history of the area at the Old Milton Country Fair, which was held Sept. 12 and 13 at Milton Center. The event, meant to harken back to simpler times, featured old-fashioned fun like petting zoos, demonstrations of bygone trades and lots of delicious fair food.
Photos by Jason Wright.
Never forget Sept. 11 Communities and cities across North Fulton gathered to remember Sept. 11 last Friday.
Fall Festival in Johns Creek Hundreds recently descended upon Johns Creek for its Fall Festival.
Entertainers strolled through the festival, cracking jokes and making people smile.
Photos by Jennifer Chapman.
Johns Creek Police laud their best JOHNS CREEK — Ten members of the Johns Creek Police Department were recognized for their exemplary public service at the 2009 Johns Creek Police Awards Banquet held August 22 at the Standard Club in Johns Creek.
Forsyth hosts End Tax and Spend Rally Several hundred residents from Forsyth and neighboring counties gathered on the lawn and the steps of the Forsyth County Courthouse on Saturday, Sept. 12 to send Washington a message. A growing deficit, health care bills they don't like and pork barrel spending had them upset.
War Birds over Forsyth Baron von Richthofen, Pappy Boyington, Chuck Yeager – these great pilots and many more were represented Labor Day weekend at the War Birds two-day event at the Ga. Aircraft Modelers Association (GAMA) event Labor Day weekend.
End of Summer Celebration There was music, games, rides and fun aplenty for the families who came out for the eighth annual End of Summer Celebration Sept. 6 at Centennial High School’s baseball field.
Arts on the Creek Thousands enjoyed a weekend of arts during the annual Arts on the Creek festival in Johns Creek.
Mount Pisgah's Athletic Campus Mount Pisgah Christian School officially opened its athletic campus on Brumbelow Road Aug. 26.
Forsyth students excel on SAT FORSYTH COUNTY - Students gathered around a massive gold trophy and hoisted it high into the air amidst laughs, cheers and applause.
The scene inside the front doors of South Forsyth High School on the morning of Aug. 25 played out like the end of championship season. South Forsyth, the 2009 recipient of the first SAT 2400 Challenge Cup for highest overall score in the county, increased 37 points above last year for total critical reading, mathematics and writing scores.
South Forsyth was also recognized as 19th in the top 25 Georgia high schools by average SAT score.
Ice cream event benefits Drake House ROSWELL — Once again torrential downpours threatened to dampen the enthusiasm at the annual Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’ on the Historic Roswell Square, and once again hundreds of North Fulton residents ignored the weather to have a good time.
Dozens of booths set up by churches, civic groups, a few businesses and other organizations served up homemade ice cream – and they paid for the right to do it, with proceeds going to The Drake House.
The event raised $48,000 for The Drake House, which provides crisis housing for homeless mothers and their children with comprehensive services to facilitate self-sufficiency.
Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Judas Priest brings metal to Alpharetta Several thousand fans of Judas Priest, an English heavy metal band from Birmingham, heard and saw them perform at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre recently. Formed in 1969, Judas Priest's core line-up consists of bass player Ian Hill, vocalist Rob Halford and guitarists Glenn Tipton and K. K. Downing; their current drummer is Scott Travis. They have been cited as an influence on many heavy metal musicians and bands. (Photos by Clark Savage/Clayton Cameracraft)
Big & Rich jam at Verizon Big & Rich brought the Kicks Country Jam to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park last weekend. (Photos by Clark Savage/Clayton Cameracraft)
Local ladies pampered in Roswell ROSWELL – Harry’s Farmers Market/Whole Foods in Roswell hosted 30 women for a Girls Night Aug. 24, a few hours in which the ladies could get makeovers, massages, mini-facials, take part in yoga and relaxation techniques, and sample hors d’oeuvres.
All proceeds went directly to The Drake House, which provides immediate residential housing to homeless women and children. Jennifer Smeth of Harry’s said the night for the women to pamper themselves helped promote the Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’, another fund raiser for The Drake House.
Harry’s Farmers Market is the presenting sponsor for that event, which will be held Sunday, Aug. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. on the Historic Square in Roswell. The square will be filled with booths manned by local businesses, civic groups, churches and other organizations, all vying for honors as having the best homemade ice cream. All of the organizations paid for the privilege of serving up scoops of ice cream to visitors. Attendance costs $5 per person.
Visit www.thedrakehouse.org for more information.
Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Trilogy Trolley Crawl in Roswell Cogburn Woods ES parents blast Fulton School 10 percent over projections, nearly 1,000 students swell classrooms.
Photos by Jennifer Chapman.
Harry's hosts Culinary Expo for 'Julie and Julia' ROSWELL — Harry’s Farmers Market/Whole Foods in Alpharetta was the scene of a Culinary Expo Aug. 15 featuring cooking demonstrations from area chefs and food artisans.
The event coincided with the release of the movie “Julie and Julia,” as well as the 97th birthday of the late Julia Child.
Chefs from area restaurants, including Five Seasons and The Union, prepared meals for shoppers, while others prepared meals from recipes included in the newly-released “Atlanta Cooks at Home.”
Photos by Candy Waylock.
Polo benefit in Milton Milton's Tactical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER) team held a beneift Aug. 23 at Chukkar Farm Polo Club to raise money for a 400-pound horse mannequin.
'Battle of the Bats' in Forsyth Forsyth County's Central Park was the site of the Special Olympics' "Battle of the Bats" Aug. 22 for teams from three different states. It was the first softball tournament hosted by the Forsyth Special Olympics.
Incubus and friends at Verizon The Duke Spirit hails from England, but recently toured through Alpharetta with Incubus. (Photos by Clark Savage/Clayton CameraCraft)
Incubus and friends at Verizon The Duke Spirit hails from England, but recently toured through Alpharetta with Incubus. (Photos by Clark Savage/Clayton CameraCraft)
Georgia Jumpers The Georgia Jumpers, a competitve jump roping team, are beginning a new season in Forsyth County.
JCFD Boot Drive Johns Creek firefighters collected donations for its Boot Drive, which benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association
Cruise In in Milton The first “Cruise-In” car show in Milton drew throngs of folks to Crabapple Aug. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon.
The show, which will be held the third Saturday of each month, coincides with the Milton Farmer’s Market (held every week) in the Olde Blind Dog parking lot, making for a great morning out for families.
Ron Wallace, co-owner of the Olde Blind Dog, said hundreds of cars came out from as far off as Macon and Dahlonega.
Extreme Makeover star helps build in Milton Extreme Makeover Home Edition designer Didiayer Snyder spent part of the day building a Habitat home in Milton.
Snyder will be the keynote speaker for her alma mater, Ashworth College, graduation ceremonies on Saturday. She is a two-time graduate of the college’s carpentry and interior design programs.
The college made the “Ashworth Builds Lives (Habitat for Humanity) event part of its graduation activities this weekend, with college students, graduates, instructors and staff picking up hammers and building walls.
Her husband, Christopher, currently an Ashworth student, joined her at the Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia community on Centennial Way in Milton.
Snyder offered the Habitat mantra, “It’s not a hand out, it’s a hand up,” in her remarks to the other Habitat build participants. She presented one of the Habitat families with a scholarship to Ashworth College, assuring them of a college education. Then she joined the rest of the volunteers on the build, picking up a hammer and getting to work.
Roswell’s Spray Ground beats heat The newest place to cool off in a big way is at the Riverside Park Spray Ground in Roswell.
Although the water never gets to be an inch deep, it sends jets of water several feet into the air, much to the delight of screaming youngsters.
Birmingham Falls welcomes first students Most classrooms were filled on the first day of school at Birmingham Falls Elementary School, one of Fulton County’s new schools that opened this year.
Parents followed their children into the halls and classrooms to take those precious first day photos and videos – and to deliver bags of school supplies.
National Night Out a big hit It was hotdogs, hamburgers, police officers and firefighters galore at the National Night Out event held Aug. 4 at the Equestrian Center at Wills Park.
The three hour event hosted hundreds and featured a cookout, demonstrations from Alpharetta’s SWAT and K-9 teams, and tours of police and fire vehicles and the Fire Safety house.
Target supported the event, bringing volunteers and handing out balloons, beach balls and gifts.
Business Expo overflows site, parking lot The Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Business Expo required two shuttle buses to haul attendees to and from off-site parking. The exhibit hall - Pinecrest Academy's gym - wasn't quite large enough, either, as exhibits spilled out into the hallway and entranceway. It was the largest Expo ever for the chamber, and perhaps the largest event ever, said Chamber President James McCoy.
Read more about it in the Aug. 19 Business Posts pages.
Lambert High's first day Lambert High School in Forsyth County opened its doors for the first day of school Aug. 10. Director of Facilities Robert Sewell said the first day had gone "smooth as silk."
Women's Center celebrates one year in Forsyth Northside Hospital-Forsyth Women's Center celebrated its one-year anniversary Aug. 8 with a private invitation for all families who delivered in the center in its first year.
Volunteers help hand out school supplies More than 125 volunteers from across North Fulton helped staff from North Fulton Community Charities hand out school supplies. It was the annual Back to School Fair, which had families waiting in line started at 3:50 a.m. Saturday.
Newtown Community Clubhouse Residents, city officials and Newtown Community Foundation members were excited to cut the ribbon marking the opening of the clubhouse on Old Alabama Road July 29.
Shop with the Braves Braves players signed autographs, helped in the deli and bagged groceries for Publix customers July 31.
Old Soldiers Day in Alpharetta ALPHARETTA — The 57th annual Old Soldiers Day parade was a success on Saturday, even though weather over Marietta grounded a Blackhawk helicopter flyover.
More than 100 parade units and thousands of spectators filled the streets from just north of downtown Alpharetta along a route to American Legion Post 201.
This year’s parade was dedicated to the memory of Mel Coalson, the Crabapple resident and Legionnaire who restarted the parade in 1952 after it had stopped before World War II.
Coalson died earlier this year after 56 years of participating in the parade events. His wife, Beverly, was a special guest at this year’s parade.
Alpharetta celebrates National Night Out K-9 units, SWAT teams and community policing were just some of the demonstrations and discussions at National Night out on Aug. 3 in Alpharetta.
The Alpharetta Public Safety Department put on the event at Wills Park Equestrian Center.
City Administrator Bob Regus promises better communication to other residents using Wills Park facilities at next year's event, as the SWAT team demonstration sounded much too real. Read next week's Revue & News to see more of what Regus has to say.
Alpharetta celebrates National Night Out K-9 units, SWAT teams and community policing were just some of the demonstrations and discussions at National Night out on Aug. 3 in Alpharetta.
The Alpharetta Public Safety Department put on the event at Wills Park Equestrian Center.
City Administrator Bob Regus promises better communication to other residents using Wills Park facilities at next year's event, as the SWAT team demonstration sounded much too real. Read next week's Revue & News to see more of what Regus has to say.
Georgia Model Planes They zip across the brilliant blue sky to the sounds of “oooohs” and “ahhhhhs” like any air show. The aircraft turn and move with precision, the result of countless hours of pilot practice, then turn around for their approach and record a successful landing.
Just another day at the Georgia Model Aviators (GMA) facility in North Forsyth County. At any given time, dozens of pilots from across the state come to show what their elaborate planes can do.
Koncert for Ken Friends and family of Alpharetta resident Ken Foster held the Koncert for Ken July 26 at Montana's on Ga. 9. Hundreds showed up for the musical event to raise funds for Foster's family to help combat his cancer.
Forsyth's Golden Gloves The Forsyth County Special Olympics Softball team, the "Golden Gloves," will be hosting a tournament Aug. 22 at Forsyth County's Central Park. The team is currently practicing for the event.
For more information on the team, see next week's Forsyth Herald or visit www.soforsyth.com.
Horse Show Ventures at Wills Park Horses, ponies, riders and trainers filled the stalls and rings at the Wills Park Equestrian Center this weekend for three days of hunter jumper competition.
Horse Show Ventures, a company run by Morgan Taylor of Milton, presented the show, part of the Southeastern Hunter Jumper Series.
Summer fun Local children have been enjoying the summer break in different ways, from swimming to creating a homemade slide in the backyard.
2009 July 4 Steam Engine Parade The streets of downtown Cumming were packed with spectators trying to catch a glimpse of the parade on the morning of July 4.
Milton Fourth of July Citizens Parade Milton held its second annual Citizens Parade July 4. Dozens of families attended, bringing the kids and pets -- all dressed patriotically of course -- in tow.
Cumming fireworks July 3 Thousands crowded downtown Cumming July 3 for Forsyth County's annual fireworks extravaganza
Milton starts farmer's market Ginger Enloe started Milton's first farmers market in Crabapple. It's held every Saturday next to The Blinde Dog Pub.
PCA classic at White Columns Prevent Child Abuse Georgia held its annual Celebrity Golf Classic at White Columns country club in Milton July 29. The event was hosted by Kelly Johnson and featured a number of sports stars.
New president at Rotary of Windward Appen Newspaper's Business Editor Bob Pepalis officially took the gavel as President of the Rotary Club of Windward. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Johns Creek Recycling Day Local residents dropped off more than 30,000 pounds of items to recycle in Johns Creek.
Hands on Forsyth thanks volunteers Several volunteers were honored recently in Forsyth County for their work in the community. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Summer Camp in full swing Summer camps are rocking all over North Fulton. Here are some shots of Camp All American at Perimeter Church in Johns Creek and Camp EDGE at Birmingham United Methodist Church in Milton.
Bulloch bash offers some heather among the magnolias It looked like the gathering of the clans at the Country Club of the South’s clubhouse June 12, but actually it was the Magnolia Ball, Bulloch Hall’s annual fund raiser.
Bulloch Hall, the 1839 Greek revival mansion built by Maj. James Stephens Bulloch, is one of the crown jewels of antebellum architecture in the South.
It was the home of Mittie Bulloch Roosevelt, and her son, President Theodore Roosevelt, visited the home during his presidency.
Owned by the city of Roswell, Bulloch is maintained by a non-profit organization which provides tours of the house and docents who provide the historical interpretation of the mansion.
Ed Tate, chairman of the Bulloch Hall Board of Directors, decreed this year’s ball would be celebrated in highland style to honor the Bulloch’s Scottish ancestry. Thus did dress kilts with clan tartans, sporrans, and the sgian dubh — a ceremonial dagger tucked in one of the stockings — sprout like heather upon the moorlands.
Alpharetta says farewell to Bill McKnight Alpharetta Planning Commissioner Bill McKnight was scheduled to be honored in retirement at the June 15 City Council meeting, but the event took on a more somber mood with his death just a few days earlier.
Stevie Wonder performs in Alpharetta Iconic musical artist Stevie Wonder visited Alpharetta on Tuesday night, performing for a crowd at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park. (Clark Savage/Clayton CameraCraft)
Styx, REO Speedwagon Can't Stop Rockin' in Alpharetta Three bands took to the stage at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Sunday, June 21. 38 Special, REO Speedwagon and Styx played all their hits from the '70s and '80s to the appreciative crowd. (Clark Savage/Clayton CameraCraft)
Johns Creek high opens Hundreds attended the open house for the new Johns Creek high School June 20.
Political season kicks off in Milton Milton's four incubents in the November General Election held a unified campaign kick-off party at the Olde Blind Dog in Crabapple June 16.
CNC expands Take a look inside the $10 million remake of the Nature Center with outdoor pavilion and its incredible interactive exhibit hall.
Gwinnett Braves pack in crowds The Gwinnett Braves, who play in Lawrenceville, are packing in crowds from all over North Fulton and Forsyth.
Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago perform at Verizon The hits kept coming at the Earth, Wind & Fire/Chicago joint concert at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park in Alpharetta June 5. Though Earth, Wind & Fire's remaining trio of original members took a few songs to warm up, the diverse crowd only need a few bars of the first song to get that way themselves. The concert started and ended with both bands on stage performing together, with each getting a chance to perform their own hits by themselves in between. (Photos by Clark Savage)
South Forsyth baseball at state championship South Forsyth recently advanced to the AAAAA state baseball championships. The War Eagles fell to Pope High School in two games. It was South Forsyth's first appearance in the state championship.
Photos by Logan Thomas.
Sharon Springs Pro Football Camp Hundreds of players, coaches and parents attended the 2009 Sharon Springs Pro Football Camp.
Photos by Logan Thomas.
‘The Bus’ stops in Milton Retired NFL star Jerome Bettis (a.k.a. “The Bus”) stopped by Stars Soccer Club’s new flag football league. Bettis and retired football player Tim Lester taught kids drills, exercises and stretches at the learn-to-play camp June 1.
The free flag football league is for girls and boys ages 7-to 14. For more information about Stars Soccer Club, visit www.starssoccerclub.com.
Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Heritage Day Children and families had a taste of old fashioned fun at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve's Heritage Day May 30.
Roswell Rotary Memorial Day 2009 The 12th annual Roswell Rotary and city of Roswell Memorial Day Celebration was held May 25 at Roswell City Hall.
Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Mayor hosts volunteer appreciation dinner Mayor Joe Lockwood hosted a volunteer appreciation dinner at his home on Dorris Road May 18 for the many community volunteers that serve on Milton’s boards and committees.
More than 150 people showed up, said Allie Taylor, a spokeswoman for the city, representing council, board and committee members and their family and friends.
Photos by Allie Taylor, city of Milton
Johns Creek celebrates Public Works Week JOHNS CREEK - In observance of National Public Works Week, the city’s Public Works Department showed off all of their equipment that they use to fix roads and get their jobs done May 18 in the parking lot of City Hall.
Since becoming a city, Johns Creek has filled more than 700 potholes, resurfaced 10 miles of streets, installed 430 new traffic signs as well as mowed 1,300 miles of right-of-way and removed almost 2,900 bags of litter from the medians and sides of roads.
Instituted as a public education campaign by the American Public Works Association in 1960, National Public Works Week calls attention to the importance of public works in community life. This year’s NPWW theme is “Revitalize, Reinvest, Renew.”
Johns Creek Police Department golf tourney benefits Special Olym JOHNS CREEK - The Johns Creek Police Department Golf Tournament for Special Olympics brought police officers, residents and local business owners out for a day of teeing it up on The Standard Club in Johns Creek.
Ashley Lebovitz, a Johns Creek resident and the department’s Special Olympics Ambassador, helped golfers get their day started with help from basketball legend Julius Erving, a.k.a. “Dr. J,” who played in the golf tournament. The two signed autographs for golfers and posed for pictures as well.
Lebovitz is assisting the police department in its fundraising efforts for the 23rd annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, which benefits the Special Olympics.
Milton Public Safety Fair The Milton Public Safety Fund held a public safety fair May 15 and 16 to raise money for the city's police and fire departments. Photos by Jason Wright and Jan Fowler.
Hopewell Day at Bell Memorial Park Hopewell Youth Association held its inaugural Hopewell Day at Bell Memorial Park May 9. As part of the festivities, Mayor Joe Lockwood threw out the first pitch, kindergarteners from Cogburn Woods Elementary sang the National Anthem and the HYA board announced the Cregge Beard Award for volunteers.
Roswell Relay for Life 2009 Roswell held its Relay for Life event May 8 at Centennial High School, raising more than $115,000. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Spring brings Roswell Colors Festival to life Thousands flocked to Roswell Historic Town Square over the Mother’s Day weekend for the annual Colors Festival of Arts as it marked its 19th evolution. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Women take on Habitat build On May 5, an all-female construction crew was hard at work at Centennial Village, a Habitat for Humanity project site off Ga. 9 in Milton.
Dave Matthews Band performs at Verizon Wireless The Dave Matthews Band was the first popular act to perform at Verizon Wireless Amphiteathre, playing two shows on April 28 & 29. (Clark Savage/Clayton CameraCraft)
Relay for Life Alpharetta 09 A little rain – OK, a LOT of rain – didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the participants in Relay for Life Alpharetta at Alpharetta High School on Friday night, though it did send them scurrying for cover when lightning could be seen flashing in the area.
Kids for Kanines brings dogs to park Sydney Weaver, 12, said she wanted to help dogs and thought of a good way to do so. She and her friend Chandler Smith, 11, started an annual event, “Kids for Kanines,” which benefits the Atlanta Humane Society, National Canine Cancer Foundation and Cindy’s K-9 Angels. The event included contests, a dog walk and vendors at Newtown Park April 26.
SELC Tournament in Johns Creek Lacrosse lovers got to watch the action up close as Northview High School hosted the Southeastern Lacrosse Conference Tournament for the fifth consecutive year. Teams from across the Southeast, including Auburn, Florida, Virginia Tech, Georgia, Emory, Elon and others descended upon Johns Creek for the weekend tournament, April 24-26.
Amphitheater hosts Greater North Fulton Chamber ALPHARETTA – The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce found a venue big enough for its 36th Annual Chairman’s Gala – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park.
The chamber handed out its annual awards following a slide show of chamber activities MC’d by John Rasper, president of DeKalb Office and 2009 chairman of the chamber’s board of directors.
Paul Maggard of Maggard Ventures, last year’s chairman, also was thanked by Rasper and Beach.
Northside Hospital served as the event’s presenting sponsor., with Verizon Wireless sponsoring the cocktail reception.
Sen. Johnny Isakson won the Pioneer Award, and Katherine Simon the Harry Rucker Jr. Volunteer of the Year Award. Other awards are listed with photos at right.
Elected officials in attendance included: Rep. Tom Price, R-Ga., Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalter, Secretary of State Karen Handel, state Reps. Jan Jones, Sheila Jones, Wendell Willard; state Sens. David Shafer and Eric Johnson; Fulton County Commissioners Lynne Riley and Robb Pitts, Fulton County Tax Commissioner Arthur Ferdinand; Fulton County School Board member Katie Reeves; Mayors Jere Wood of Roswell, Arthur Letchas of Alpharetta, Mike Bodker of Johns Creek and Joe Lockwood of Milton, along with numerous other elected officials.
– Bob Pepalis
2009 Historic Roswell Criterium The 8th annual Historic Roswell Criterium returned April 26 with a full day of bicycle racing, including some of the cycling world’s best. With the cancellation of the Tour de Georgia, the Historic Roswell Criterium remains the only national, spring-time bicycle race in metro Atlanta, boast the organizers.
Since the first event in 2001, the Historic Roswell Criterium has grown to hosting more than 450 elite racers, 350 Mayor’s Ride participants and 5,000 spectators.
In addition to the professional races, the event featured a family fun ride, two juniors races, kids races and a children’s bike safety rodeo.
Birmingham Park Clean up April 25 hundreds of volunteers cleaned up Milton's Birmingham Park.
Photos by Jason Wright, Patti Silva (MILTONville.com), Milton Grows Green, Allie Taylor (Milton) and Julie Zahner Bailey
Johns Creek Relay for Life raises $104,000 JOHNS CREEK - It started with a goal of $75,000. But participants blew the goal away by raising more than $104,000 April 17, during the first Johns Creek Relay for Life at Taylor Road Middle School.
Forty-nine teams took to the track at TRMS, walking into the wee hours of the morning before ending at 7 a.m. April 18. About 112 survivors walked the survivor/caretaker lap Friday night.
Johns Creek Public Works Department estimated that 1,200 people were on the field and track for the event.
Roswell TEA Party Sick of what they believe to be unfair taxation, hundreds of North Fulton citizens gathered in historic Roswell Square along with political leaders for a TEA (Taxed Enough Already) party.
They joined cities across the nation holding similar TEA Parties April 15, tax day, with their own rally. A similar rally was held in Forsyth County, and the big one was held in downtown Atlanta.
Photos by Thomas Bose
Convoy of Hope They called in the Convoy of Hope, breezing into town after months of preparation by local volunteers, but after it was over it was more like a Festival of Hope.
The Christian mission that goes from city to city mobilizing social resources and training churches and other groups on community outreach and disaster response came to Roswell City Hall and brought lots of people together.
Realizing most people want a hand up not a handout, the main emphasis was on creating opportunities for work, education and health care while creating an atmosphere of fun and excitement with bands, a huge children’s play area, job fair, grooming pavilion and groceries at the end.
More than 1,500 local volunteers helped make it all happen.
Forsyth County Special Olympics About 250 athletes gathered April 17 at Forsyth Central High School for the 2009 Special Olympics. Read more in this week's Forsyth Herald.
Forsyth County Seniors attend Spring Dance Forsyth County Senior Services held their fourth annual spring dance April 18. Music was provided by the New Horizons Swing Band while free caricatures were offered by Patrick Trujilo courtesy of McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
See more information in the next Forsyth Herald.
Forsyth storm damage High winds and rains destroyed parts of Forsyth County April 13.
Tax Day Tea Party in Suwanee People gathered on the lawn of the Suwanee Town Center Park amphitheatre to rally against what many deem as government overspending in a grass-roots movement that is fueled by opposition of the stimulus package recently passed by the U.S. Congress.
Rallies are being held all across nation including the metro Atlanta area where people are attending and participating in these rallies.
(Photos by Tana Suggs)
Spring break time for baseball in Johns Creek Johns Creek’s spring break baseball clinic at Grand Slam Sports Center April 8. Young baseball players practiced their swings, hitting and pitching skills.
Johns Creek children hunt for Easter Eggs Newtown Park's annual Spring Egg Hunt brought hundreds of children and parents out Saturday, April 4. Children ages 1-10 collected thousands of filled eggs "hidden" on the park's main soccer field at Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek (directly across the street from Johns Creek Fire Station No. 3). Plenty of other activities kept the children entertained.
Sawnee Arts Festival in Forsyth Families braved the rain to enjoy a weekend at the Forsyth County Central Park where a variety of artists were featured selling their work at the second annual Sawnee Arts Festival March 28.
Alpharetta Council moves City Center forward Despite misgivings by Councilmen D.C. Aiken and Doug DeRito, Alpharetta approved letting city staff move forward on an agreement with a private developer in the downtown City Center project. The next vote will be in August when council decides what it will put on the November ballot, if anything. A new city hall, parking structure, town green and 5.5-acre passive park would be the public portion of the project.
Chattahoochee faculty beat Northview The second-annual Coaches and Faculty basketball game between Chattahoochee and Northview high schools was held March 26 at Chattahoochee. For the second year, Chattahoochee's coaches and faculty won, with a 94-63 victory over the Titans.
Forsyth Fire vs. South Forsyth Rebels 12-year olds from the Forsyth Fire battled the South Forsyth Rebels at Dobbs Creek last Sunday in the first game of their double-header. After some good defense from both ball clubs and a controversial call at 1st base, the competition finally ended in an 8-8 tie.
Photos by Kevin O'Brien with Split Second Images.
Sawnee Mountain 5K in Forsyth More than 150 runners raced up Sawnee Mountain in the "Abba House Run for Recovery" March 21.
Alpharettans have one more chance to weigh in on City Center Alpharetta held another public information meeting on its City Center proposal for downtown Alpharetta, which would include a new City Hall, a 5.5-acre public park and two commercial office and retail buildings.The final meeting and City Council's vote on whether to put a bond referendum to fund the public portion will be held on Monday night.
Work begins on Johns Creek Greenway Officials broke ground on the Johns Creek Greenway March 23. Construction on the continuous network of trails throughout the city began with Segment 1, which will run along Medlock Bridge Road from Old Alabama Road to Findley Road.
Johns Creek Public Safety gets 1st donation Johns Creek Public Safety Foundation receives first donation
JOHNS CREEK – The Johns Creek Public Safety Foundation received its first donation from the Johns Creek Women’s Society March 19, to the tune of $300.
Firefighters and Women’s Society members gathered at the Shakerag firestation on Rogers Bridge Circle to celebrate the donation. Members’ children were able to climb atop fire trucks and firefighters showed off equipment.
March Magic at Birmingham Crossroads Hold Your Horses hosted Driving Magic, an adapted riding program, at its March Magic event at the Village at Birmingham Crossroads. The event was staffed by volunteers from Holly Springs Equestrian.
Calabash Cotillion raises money while having fun All the swells, the sweet elite, the hoi and the poloi presented themselves March 7 for the 22nd gathering of the Calabash Cotillion for the introduction to society all of the debu-t’aints for 2009.
Shorts and sandals were de rigueur, of course, and only the best Hawaiian prints for the lords and floral print dresses for ladies were worn.
Yes, it is the Calabash again, celebrating beach music, hangin’ out and the ‘60s. So put away that cutaway, leave that tux in mothballs. The most celebrated beach band of all time, The Jesters, livened up the dance floor with more horns than Ga. 400 on a three-day weekend.
The shagging and strolling at the Alpharetta Marriott raised funds for North Fulton Community Charities.
Showcase Home at Milton mayor's place MILTON - The Roswell Women's Club held a preview party and silent auction March 7 for the 13th annual Showcase Home event, which this year features Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood's "The Homestead."
Located on 30 acres in Milton off Birmingham Highway, the newly constructed home sits behind a 100-year-old caretaker's cottage and stable.
Wills Park opening day Hundreds of youngsters took to the field March 7 as the Wills Park Youth Baseball Association (WPYBA) held its opening day for spring baseball. Falcons wide receiver Brain Finneran was on hand to sign autographs for the kids and officially open the park with a first pitch ceremony. Paul Ossmann, 11 Alive weatherman and WPYBA coach, emceed the event.
Falcons quarterback and NFL Rookie of the Year Matt Ryan, who was scheduled to throw out the first pitch, will be on hand at the park March 14.
St. Brendan parish celebrates Ash Wednesday Saint Brendan Catholic Community of Cumming held a Bilingual Ash Wednesday Mass celebration, during which ashes were distributed in recognition of Ash Wednesday.
Snow falls in Alpharetta Winter finally arrived in Georgia, blanketing much of north and central Georgia with snow, mixed with sleet and rain. The Georgia Department of Transportation advised motorists to stay off all roads.
Foster Care Support Foundation Gala Hundreds of people raised tens of thousands of dollars for the Foster Care Support Foundation during its gala at The Metropolitan Club Friday night.
Alpharettans hear City Center proposal A large crowd of Alpharetta residents attended a public information meeting on the latest proposal for the downtown City Center, one of four scheduled. On March 30th, after the final hearing, City Council will decide whether to move forward on the plans based on public input.
Bombardier's daughter takes flight in B-17 When Hatcher Hurd had the chance to fly in the B-17 Liberty Belle a couple of weeks ago, he says it was both a thrilling and a moving experience. For his friend, Pat DiGeorge, it was a much more than that.
For Pat, it was a chance to get closer to her dad. Like so many veterans, he never said much to his family about his experiences in World War II.
Cumming-Forsyth Chamber members win awards The 54th Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony of the Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce was held Monday night, with six awards presented by 2008 Chairman Brett Berto.
Adult hoopsters play in Forsyth Recreation's winter league The Forsyth Parks and Recreation Department Winter Adult Basketball program is in full swing. A variety of leagues are offered each season, including Men's Open, Men's Church, and Women's. As of Feb. 13, the date these photos were taken, the following teams were atop their respective leagues' standings: Coal Mountain (8-1); Bryan Properties (8-1); Keller Williams Dawgs & Eterminators, tied for first (7-2); Bethlehem Baptist (8-1); and the Women's Open Coal Mountain Baptist (8-1). Visit the Parks & Recreation Athletics' page at www.forsythco.com for more information.
North Fulton Regional holds 50 Plus Health Fair North Fulton Regional Hospital held its seventh annual 50+ Health Fair Feb. 13 at Georgia State University's Alpharetta campus, attracting more than 140 visitors.
Gwinnett Gladiators host Pink in the Rink The Gwinnett Gladiators deteated the Charlotte Checkers 2-1 in overtime at Gwinnett Arena Sunday. It was the second night of "Pink in the Rink," The team's dedicate to raising funds for Cancer Awareness and the Gladiators' Foundation for Kids.
Roswell launches historic Mill Village walking tour The Heritage Center at Roswell’s Convention and Visitors Bureau has launched an exhibit and walking tour focusing on the famous Roswell Mill and Mill Village, where its workers lived.
Beginning on Atlanta Street in front of the Visitors Center and continuing down Sloan Street to the Mill and Mill Workers Monument, the free tour utilizes digital Mp3 players to guide visitors through the historic area.
Dottie Etris, executive director of the Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau, said visitors can visit the Historical Society’s Web site to download the walking tour to their own digital devices, or borrow one from the Visitor’s Center. There is also a narrated driving tour available on CD, and more adventurous hikers can visit the old machine shop and mill ruins on the Vickery Creek trails.
Forsyth's Vickery Creek students, staff battle Students at Forsyth County's Vickery Creek Middle School had the chance to show school teachers and administration their moves on the court Feb. 10. All proceeds for the event went toward the Relay for Life.
Although the students were edged by staff 36-31, smiles from both teams were all around. Art teacher Debbie Pollack and physical education teacher Carey Hunt had been working toward an event that would raise money for Relay for Life.
Alpharetta Youth Council considers walking, biking Alpharetta's Youth Council, composed of high school students from schools in and around the North Fulton city, prepared a survey Monday night to determine the sidewalk and bike path priorities of the city.
Troy Aikman, Garth Brooks kick-off Child Life Zone It may seem like a dream for some children since it’s not often that you see NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman playing the “Apples to Apples” card game or country music superstar Garth Brooks cheering on kids playing video games. But in the newly constructed Child Life Zone at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite, dreams came true.
'Beach bums' attend Alpharetta PAL bakk On Feb. 6, hundreds of well-dressed beach bums descended on the 13th annual Alpharetta Police and Activities League (PAL) Benefit Ball to help raise funds for the organization’s many popular youth programs.
Held at the Metropolitan Club off Windward Parkway, this year’s theme was “Endless Summer,” which meant no black ties. The night included casino style gambling and a silent auction to help raise money for PAL. The ball is the organization’s single fund raising event.
High School Musical actor visits Johns Creek High School Musical 3 actor Justin Martin, an Atlanta native, made an appearance at Mount Pisgah Christian School in Johns Creek Feb. 2 to help the school’s kick-off of this year’s Pennies for Patients program.
Alpharetta Public Safety Awards Day The Alpharetta Department of Public Safety honored its best with a ceremony Jan. 30 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church on Academy Street.
Battalion Chief Carl Hall was given the department’s highest award, the Director’s Award.
Forsyth County Counselor of the Year Jolie Kimmel with South Forsyth High School and Leigh Ann Strickland with Chattahoochee Elementary School were recognized as Forsyth County's Counselors of the Year during a recent meeting of school counselors.
Forsyth schools test tasty menu items Nutrition in local schools will be getting a tasty overhaul for the 2009-2010 school year.
And students and staff got a sneak peak — or taste — while also providing input Jan. 28 for the Forsyth County Schools Food and Nutrition Services first ever Mini Product Exhibit held at the Piedmont Learning Center Cafeteria.
UGA Coach Felton's final North Fulton appearance Dennis Felton spent part of Tuesday morning speaking to the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce's Eggs & Enterprise Breakfast, relating his experiences as head coach of the University of Georgia Bulldogs basketball team and his trip to President Obama's inauguration.
Just two days later, Felton was fired from his position as UGA coach.
Hopewell Middle holds international night in Milton Hopewell Middle School held an International Night Jan. 22 complete with food from around the globe and entertainment from the community’s many diverse cultures. Students dressed up like their favorite cultures and the school was packed with students and parents looking to share some of themselves and their rich backgrounds with each other.Photos by Jason Wright
Forsyth's Vickery Elementary School retires flag Vickery Elementary School retired a flag in the approved manner according to protocol. Tossing a flag into the trash just won't do.Photos by Peyton Harris
Hot food served up at The PLace of Forsyth County Wednesday was a perfect day for a hot bowl of chili, if you ask Lisa Hoxie and Robert C. Landreth who helped coordinate a lunch event at The Place of Forsyth County. The Place is a non-profit social service organization that has been serving Forsyth County families since 1975. For more information, visit www.theplaceofforsyth.com or call 770-887-1098.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Milton councilman Alan Tart at President Obama's Inaugural Ball Milton councilman and FDA Regional Retail Food Specialist Alan Tart was part of a special FDA team that traveled to Washington D.C. for President Barack Obama's historic inauguration Jan. 20. These are photos from two of the balls he attended, one commemorating Vice President Joe Biden Jan. 19 and The Eastern States Ball Jan. 20. “One word sums up this experience,” said Tart. “Wow.”
West Forsyth Wolverines at State Duals - Jan. '09 The West Forsyth Wolverine Varsity wrestling team brought home their first Top-5 state placement after finishing 4th at State Duals in Macon this past weekend. This is the first time the team placed in state in only their second year of existence since the school opened. The wrestlers will pursue another Top-5 finish at Traditional State in February. Photos by Kevin O’Brien / Split Second Images
West Forsyth Wolverines will advance to State Wrestling Duals The West Forsyth Wolverines will participate in the State Wrestling Duals in Macon Jan. 16 and 17 after clinching the Area Championship. After a slow start against Creekview High School, the Wolverine grapplers rebounded with a great effort in the semifinal match against White County and came out on top with a 37-28 victory. Reice Thompson won the final bout of the meet in an exciting match. In the championship finals against Lumpkin County, the Wolverines started fast and never looked back. After building a 24-0 lead, the team mathematically clinched the Area Championship when Matt Hatcher won his match at 160 pounds. The final score of the dual was 45-27.
The Wolverines are led by head coach Dennis Stromie.
Photos by Kevin O’Brien / Split Second Images
New Cici's pizza opens in Forsyth - Jan. '09 Former Falcons’ coach Jerry Glanville helped owner Scott Edwards open a new CiCi’s Pizza Jan. 5 at 2920 Ronald Reagan Blvd. in Forsyth County.
First baby born in 2009 in Forsyth - Jan. '09 Dawn Kapustka and Nathan Smallwood welcomed their son, Tristan Dee Kapustka 18 minutes after midnight to be the first 2009 baby in Forsyth County.
