Johns Creek's Hope Kemp-Hanson effort lifts spirits - Dec. '08 Hope Kemp-Hanson, a 5th grader in Melissa Greene's class at State Bridge Elementary School, gathered more than 1,100 student-made get-well cards for children at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Cumming's Sawnee Elementary gives back Led by the 155 Horizon students, all grades at Sawnee Elementary donated 21 parcels full of toys, snacks and other goodies Dec. 18 to the Bald Ridge Lodge. School officials said the idea originated with the students.
West Forsyth place 2nd at Norcross tournament - Dec. '08 The West Forsyth Wolverine varsity wrestlers ran their dual meet record to 11-1 with dual meet wins recently over Salem, Shiloh & Meadowcreek. On Saturday the team took second place in the individual tournament at Norcross. Place winners for the West team were -
1st Place – Matt Hatcher, Dane Magnussen
2nd Place – Scott Laney, Jeff Sayer & Evan Burchette
3rd Place – Robbie Kudela, Tyler Lott & Connor Allen
4th Place – Tyler Everton & Jacob Aguon Photos by Kevin O'Brien
Second Wind Dreams helps Cumming woman - Dec. '08 100 year old Emma Farquar, a resident of Cumming Nursing Center was given a fashionable new outfit. O'Charley's restaurant provided gift certificates for when she gets the chance to head out for a meal. Photos by Peyton Harris
The Travelers open new facility in Alpharetta - Dec. '08 The Travelers Companies combined its Alpharetta and Duluth offices into one new facility on Windward Concourse in Alpharetta, bringing 900 employees together in one location. Photos by Bob Pepalis
'Shop With a Cop' in Alpharetta - Dec. '08 Alpharetta's Police Athletic League held the 10th annual Shop With a Cop Dec. 10 at the Wal-Mart on Windward Parkway.
According to PAL CEO Jim Little, 76 children participated in the yearly event, which pairs kids with more than 100 police, firefighter and citizen volunteers to help bring holiday wishes to life.
For the second year in a row, Milton's Public Safety department pitched in as well.
“I invited them because tonight is about the kids,” said Little.
Each child -- chosen by police working with school counselors and social workers -- was given $100 to buy anything he or she wanted. All the money raised for event was spent by those children, said Little.
And the coolest part, said Little, is that most of the children buy gifts for others with their funds.
“A lot of times they're not even thinking about themselves.”
Photos by Jason Wright
Christmas in Crabapple begins new tradition - Dec. '08 Hundreds of families braved the cold weather Dec. 6 and enjoyed an old-fashioned Christmas celebration in Crabapple.
The event featured bonfires, a performance by the Milton Choir (who also sold s’mores) horse drawn carriage rides, pictures with Santa (including a toy) and shopping.
A number of Crabapple businesses, including Millie Huckaby’s American Country Antiques, Bead Bug, The Broadwell Cottage, Classic Expressions, Crabapple Tea Room, Crabapple Vineyard, Flowers From Us, The Garden Within, Goddard School, Only Ewe & Cotton Too, Sip Wine and Strawberry Fields participated. Photos by Jason Wright
Gordon Hunter's Christmas Tree Farm in Milton - Dec. '08 Owner, operator and head elf in charge, Gordon Hunter takes a load of youngsters on a hayride around his Christmas tree farm in Milton. It was all part of an outing for Spectrum, a nonprofit for children with autism.
Photos by Hatcher Hurd
West Forsyth HS wresting meet - Dec. '08 The West Forsyth H.S. Wolverines hosted the Cherokee Warriors and East Jackson Eagles on Nov. 26 for a wrestling meet just before the Thanksgiving break. The Wolverines Varsity squad trailed late in the competition, but came back strong in the final matches to pull ahead 41-29 winning the contest. Photos by Kevin O’Brien/Split Second Images
Buck Jones Toy Run in Forsyth - Nov. '08 The 17th Annual Buck Jones Toy Run was held Nov. 23 at South Forsyth High School. There were three stops along the way including Cumming, Dawsonville, and Lumpkin County.
2nd place for West Forsyth HS swim team - Nov. '08 Dedication to a demanding practice schedule has paid off for the West Forsyth Wolverine's Swim Team.
The Wolverines placed 2'nd out of six teams at the Habersham invitational in Clarkesville on November 14.
The Wolverines train in the water at the YMCA for an hour and a half 4 nights a week. They also run 3 days a week including Saturdays.
Ocee Elementary constructs Critter Corner - Nov. '08 Students and staff dedicate the opening of the Critter Corner in the Ocee Elementary School Media Center to Ashley Anderson, who passed away after a battle with AML leukemia. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Northview HS's International Night in Johns Creek - Nov. '08 Northview High School’s International Night in Johns Creek brought students and their families together for a night of celebrating cultures from around the world. Dozens of students performed dance and music acts. After the performances, attendees sampled food from several cultures.
2nd Annual Ride For Will in Forsyth - Nov. '08 The second annual Ride for Will started at South Forsyth High School on a brisk Saturday morning, Nov. 8. William Clay Davison was born March of 2007 and passed away in July of that same year from SIDS. All money raised went to the Will Davison Memorial Scholarship Fund.
State superintendent Kathy Cox visits Johns Creek ES - Nov. '08 State Superintendent Kathy Cox visited Johns Creek Elementary School in Suwanee Nov. 3. Cox, who won $1 million on “Are you smarter than a fifth grader,” played the game with some students and toured the school.
Habitat for Humanity dedicates more homes in Milton - Nov. '08 Habitat, families and sponsoring companies and organizations dedicated town homes 10 through 13 in the planned 29-townhome development off Ga. 9 between Windward and Deerfield parkways Nov.1. Each family has to work on their own house and on other Habitat builds as part of the agreement to buy their home. Sweat equity is considered as important as paying back the relatively small, interest-free mortgage.
Johns Creek Foundation 2008 Mayor's Ball - Nov. '08 The Johns Creek Foundation 2008 Mayor’s Ball was held Nov. 1 at the Atlanta Athletic Club. About 300 people attended the event, which helped raise money for green space in the city. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Carnival combines fun with food drive in Forsyth - Oct. '08 Mentor Me - North Georgia had a carnival of fun at their first annual Spooky to be Hungry Fall Festival Food Drive. The organization raised $73 dollars in cash (pumpkin donations) and collected 133 pounds of food—which equals $150 of food supplies. All $223 in proceeds benefit “The Place of Forsyth County” food pantry. Children and their Mentors competed in sack races, croquet, played carnival games, horseshoes, bobbed for apples, had their faces painted and painted pumpkins.
Milton HS Homecoming parade & game - Oct. '08 Despite the gray skies and puddles on the ground, Milton High held its annual homecoming parade in downtown Crabapple Oct. 17. There were floats for the school's various clubs, carloads of spirited teens and of course the marching band.
Milton beat Lassiter 21-10 for the win, and Jacqueline Baron and Odi Amadi were named Homecoming King and Queen.
Photos by Jason Wright & Deborah Lanham
West Forsyth presents ‘Frog and Toad’ Young and old alike will enjoy West Forsyth High School’s first heartwarming and whimsical production of the 2008-09 school year, “A Year with Frog and Toad.”
In this classic tale, tried and true friends Frog and Toad navigate through an adventure-filled year, joined by some colorful companions along the way. Set to a jazzy score, this charming musical lovingly captures the spirit of this unlikely friendship as it blossoms and grows.
Directed by Eric Gray, the cast includes: Marcus Terry, Mitchell Jones, Anastasia Bandemir, Allison Owens, Matt Salvatore, Danielle Girardeau, Madison Fuller, Marshall Foster, Emily Diamond, Rachel Voorhis and Evan Judway.
Show times are Oct. 23-25 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 26 at 3:30 p.m.
Ticket costs are $10 for adults and $7 for students.
Roswell Rotary's Honor Air Program - Oct. '08 Roswell Rotary's Honor Air program took 100 World War II veterans to see their monument in Washington D.C. on Oct. 8, 2008. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Johns Creek FD ceremony and ribbon cutting - Oct. '08 The Johns Creek Fire Department launched Oct. 7. The department held a ceremony and ribbon cutting Oct. 11 at the fire station on Medlock Bridge Parkway. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Milton vs. Walton - Oct. '08 Milton put up a valiant effort in their road loss to unbeaten Walton Oct. 10, falling 24-20 in the final minutes of the game. Photos by Deborah Lanham
Pumpkin Fest in full swing in Milton - Oct. '08 Milton nursery Scottsdale Farms on Birmingham Highway has been holding weekly Pumpkin Festivals since Oct. 4. At the Oct. 12 event, There was face painting, pumpkin crafts and a children's costume parade with prizes for first, second and third. Photos by Jason Wright
Bev Miller discusses civics with Johns Creek scouts - Oct. '08 Boy Scouts received a civics lesson Oct. 10, with Councilwoman Bev Miller discussing the city of Johns Creek and all of the components which help make the city run. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Alan Jackson performs in Alpharetta - Oct. '08 Alan Jackson made a pseudo-homecoming Saturday Oct. 4 at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park in Alpharetta. The man from Newnan entertained the near-sellout crowd with a set packed with his numerous hits from over the years. Opening the show were up-and-coming country artists Blake Shelton and Ashton Shepherd. Photos by Ashley Frew
Crabapple Arts and Antiques Festival in Milton - Oct. '08 The Crossroads at Crabapple Arts and Antiques Festival was held Saturday, Oct. 4 in historic downtown Crabapple. Thousands flocked to the venerable fall tradition,. Now in its second year after a short hiatus. There was antiques, food and arts aplenty for the many families and bargain hunters who combed the famous Milton mini-community looking for something special to take home.
Photos by Jason Wright
Black Crowes perform in Alpharetta - Oct. '08 The Black Crowes gave everyone a taste of why they were once one of the biggest hard rock bands on the scene with an electrifying show Sunday Oct. 5 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park in Alpharetta. The local act gone big entertained the large crowd with a jammed-out set stretching for more than two hours. Thousands of Deadheads were present to witness their hero, former Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh, who was treated as a co-headliner earlier in the evening.Photos by Clark Savage
Alpharetta Fun Fest 2008 - Sept. '08 Though the final tally has yet to be made, the Alpharetta Rotary Club’s annual Fun Fest raised thousands of dollars for its charitable activities. Held at North Point Center East in Alpharetta, Fun Fest 2008 included a Kid’s Fun Zone with a petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, giant slides, rock climbing wall a karate exhibition and more. Car buffs enjoyed exploring automobiles on display at the Fun Fest car show. Photos by Bob Pepalis
West Forsyth Youth Lacrosse - Sept. '08 The West Forsyth Youth Lacrosse organization is in the midst of its first fall season. About 50 players have signed up to play this season. Photos by Logan Thomas
Meet & Greet about Forsyth's new Lambert HS - Sept. '08 To help answer questions regarding the new Lambert High School in Forsyth County scheduled to open in 2009, Principal Gary Davison is visiting area neighborhoods to answer questions parents might have about the new school. Davison held the first “meet and greet” at Laurel Springs Sept. 16. Photos by Logan Thomas
Alpharetta beats Centennial 20-13 - Sept. '08 Alpharetta High beat Centennial 20-13, in the final seconds of their game Friday night, scoring the final touchdown with only 13.4 seconds left. Centennial took the lead with under 2 minutes to play, but the excitement wasn't over. Mikal Abdul-Saboor combined with Michael Bennett to stop the clock. That was followed with a pass to Jordan Owens for a score with few seconds left. As time expired, Centennial's last chance at a TD pass ended with offensive pass interference.
Photos by Roy Peek/RaidersPhotos.com
Johns Creek Fall Family Festival - Sept. '08 The Johns Creek Fall Family Festival was held Sept. 13 at Newtown Park. Attendees enjoyed food, music, games and arts and crafts. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
Autrey Mill turns 20 in Johns Creek - Sept. '08 Autrey Mill Nature Preserve celebrated its 20th birthday Sept. 14. The celebration also included the unveiling of Autrey Mill’s Indian Village, complete with an Indian hut and tepee, which will be used for educational classes and programs.Photos by Jennifer Chapman
2008 Milton Roundup - Sept. '08 The second Milton Roundup was held Sept. 13 on the grounds of the Birmingham United Methodist Church. Thousands attended the seven hour event, which started with a classic car show and ended with hot air balloon rides.
Photos by Jason Wright
West Forsyth JV vs. Sequoyah Chiefs - Sept. '08 The West Forsyth Wolverines JV team spent most of the evening Thursday chasing the Sequoyah Chiefs in Cherokee County. However, the Wolverines overcame an 18-point deficit to ultimately sprint past the Chiefs winning 30-24. Photos by Kevin O'Brien
Karen Handel visits Windward Rotary - Sept. '08 Georgia's Secretary of State Karen Handel told members of the Windward Rotary Club Sept. 8 that to avoid long lines on Nov. 4 for the General Election, they should either vote by mail or the week before the election. Handel, who spent part of the previous week at the Republican National Convention, told Rotarians she had to get rid of the status quo once she took office. Everything from uncontrolled purchase cards to warehouses full of tons of excess forms kept her busy, as did an untested data system linked online that was installed just weeks before she took office. Handel visited the Windward Rotarians at their regular meeting noon Monday at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta on Windward Parkway. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Atlanta Falcons visit Shiloh Point ES - Sept. '08 Shiloh Point Elementary School students received a visit Sept. 9 from Atlanta Falcons Players Micheal Jenkins and Micheal Boley and two of the Falcons Cheerleaders. Photos by Logan Thomas
Robotic surgery expands to Northside Hospital-Forsyth - Sept. '0 Northside Hospital performs more robotic surgical procedures than any other Georgia hospital and now has expanded its robotic surgery program to Northside Hospital-Forsyth. Photos by Logan Thomas
Senator Isakson speaks at Johns Creek Rotary mtg. - Sept. '08 Senator Johnny Isakson was the featured speaker at the annual joint meeting of Forsyth and Johns Creek Rotary Clubs, held Sept. 8 at Johns Creek Baptist Church. The junior senator from Georgia discussed his energy plan which he hopes will be passed in the next session, as well as the housing market and the success of the surge in Iraq. He was later presented with a check for $1,000 to be donated in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association. Photos by Scott Sowers
Alpharetta HS vs. Wheeler - Sept. '08 Alpahretta pulled out a big win on the road Friday, beating Wheeler 30-14 in a high school football matchup. Top players on the night included Reggie Stewart grinding out yards on the ground. Derek Balcar kept busy making tackles up the middle all ngiht, with fellow defensive star Anthony Guarcello nearly getting a safety against Wheeler. Photos by Roy Peek / Raidersphotos.com
First Vote at North Forsyth High School - Sept. '08 About 2,000 North Forsyth High School students cast their ballots Sept. 4 for class superlatives and other honors in just the same way as some will vote in the presidential election this November.
The event is part of the First Vote Program, which has now been educating young voters for about four years. Students have to show identification which is used to give them the proper ballot access card in order to make sure they vote only on those issues that they are qualified to do so.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Johns Creek Arts on the Creek - Sept. '08 The Johns Creek Arts on the Creek brought out residents to Johns Creek United Methodist Church Aug. 30-31. The second annual event included art, music and children’s activities. Photos by Jennifer Chapman
"Raise Your Racquet" benefit in Johns Creek - Sept. '08 Tennis is a popular sport in the Seven Oaks neighborhood in Johns Creek. But on Aug. 22, several dozen women not only served the ball for fun but were playing for a cause. Seven Oaks residents Kristen Portaro and Katie Brenan co-chaired the event, "Raise Your Racquet for a Healthy Heart," which raised more than $8,000 for the American Heart Association.
Photos by Jennifer Chapman
11 yr. old Roswell Hornets vs. West Forsyth - Sept. '08 "The official start of most youth football seasons is still a couple of weeks away, but it didn't stop two local teams from getting a jump start last Saturday at Roswell High School. The 11-yr. old Roswell Hornets hosted the 11-yr. old West Forsyth Wolverines from Cumming in a hard hitting scrimmage. The Wolverines sprinted to an early lead and were up 14-0 at the half, but the Hornets fought back scoring 13 points after the break. In the end, the West Forsyth Wolverines pulled ahead with the final score at 20-13." Photos by Kevin O'Brien
National Night Out in Alpharetta - Aug. '08 The Alpharetta Department of Public Safety held a cookout and various tactical demonstrations as part of the National Night Out Aug. 5 at the Wills Park Equestrian Center.
This year marks the 25th anniversary for National Night Out, a crime and drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, that promotes neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in our fight for a safer nation. As part of the festivities, Alpharetta police held S.W.A.T. and K-9 demonstrations and grilled out burgers and hot dogs.
Photos by Jason Wright
Johns Creek named GA's 1st Heart Ready City - July '08 Johns Creek has been named Georgia’s first Heart Ready City by the American Heart Association. All 29 Johns Creek police cars will carry automated external defibrillators [AED]. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Target holds ‘soft opening’ in Milton - July '08 Five days before the new SuperTarget officially opened for business at Deerfield Place, the company held a five-hour “soft opening” for residents and government officials July 22 before the store officially opened five days later. The event featured a live band, food, face painting and more for those Miltonians itching to get a look at the first big development completed since the city incorporated in late 2006. Photos by Jason Wright
Opening of Bald Ridge Lodge in Forsyth - July '08 Elected officials and members of the Bald Ridge Lodge Board of Directors gathered July 24 for an opening ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Bald Ridge Lodge, a home for displaced Forsyth County boys.
Lisa Meyer, Chair of the Bald Ridge Lodge Board of Directors, said the mission of the facility will be to provide temporary shelter, counseling and supervision in a therapeutic environment that will seek to nurture the child as well as strengthen family relationships.
Milton holds first Citizen's Parade - July '08 Being a new city strapped for cash, Milton's citizens improvised this Fourth of July with a pet and people parade down Deerfield Road.
The parade featured patriotic kids on bikes, pets, horses, the city's fire trucks, Shriners on motorcycles and more. It was a decidedly old-fashioned approach to the venerable small town parade, and the gamble paid off big. More than a few onlookers were impressed at the simple ingenuity of the affair.
For the kids, face painting and ice cream awaited them after the parade. Photos by Jason Wright
Braves star holds charity golf tournament in Milton - July '08 Atlanta Braves first baseman Mark Teixeira hosted the 2008 Prevent Child Abuse Georgia Celebrity Golf Classic at White Columns Country Club in Milton June 30.
The event featured current and former braves players like Corky Miller, Jo-Jo Reyes, Alejandro Pena and Greg McMicheal.
The event was to benefit Prevent Child Abuse Georgia (PCAG), a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse in all its forms. All funds from the event, including money raised from a silent auction featuring sports and celebrity memorabilia, went to PCAG. Photos by Jason Wright
Bring Your Children To Work Day in Johns Creek - June '08 World Financial Group in Johns Creek celebrated its “Bring Your Children to Work Day” June 12. Johns Creek police officers discussed bicycle safety with kids and the children participated in several activities outdoors. Photos by JB
Fun in Forsyth - June '08 Children across Forsyth County are making the most of their summers going to pools, hitting the playgrounds and just hanging out enjoying the fact they don’t have homework. Photos by Peyton Harris
North Fulton businesses respond to need - June '08 Local businesses responded to the call by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce to collect 20 tons of food donations for the North Fulton Community Charities' (NFCC) food pantry. Summers are tougher times for families living on the brink. Many mothers depend upon the breakfast and lunch schools provide during the school year to keep their children fed. So when summer rolls around, the family's food budget takes a big hit. Already living paycheck to paycheck, these families have to come to the food pantry even several times a week for help.
The charitable organization is seeing at least 100 families per day for assistance, record numbers in its 25 years.
The chamber set a goal of 20 tons after last summer's 6-ton collection ran out within a month. NFCC accepts monetary donations from those people unable to collect food items. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Rosie O'Donnell visits Alpharetta - June '08 Rosie O'Donnell stopped by Michael's Arts and Craft in Alpharetta on Monday, June 16 for a book signing for her new craft book, "Crafty U." Photos by Christine Foster
The Tempest at Roswell's Rosewater Theatre - June '08 The Shakespeare Studio is pleased to announce the opening of The Tempest on Friday, June 20 at the Rosewater Theatre in Roswell. This rich and magical play is one of Shakespeare's classics, containing themes of forgiveness and freedom among its' subplots of tragedy, comedy and romance. The show will run Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm, on June 20-21 and June 27-28. Tickets call 770-781-4524. www.theshakespearestudio.com
Forsyth Fire vs. Creekview Grizzlies - June '08 The Lanier Baseball League began tournament games last week at Midway Park with a great matchup between the 11-year old Forsyth Fire and Creekview Grizzlies. The temperature was hot on the field with the heat moving quickly to the kid's competitive play. The Fire prevailed in the end with a close 7-6 win over the Grizzlies. Photos by Kevin O'Brien
Milton Garden Club volunteers - June '08 Volunteers from the Milton Garden Club, Real Development LLC, and Chattahoochee High School spruce up Milton's Fire Station No. 42 on Thompson Road.
Milton holds first Memorial Day celebration Milton held its first Memorial Day celebration May 26 at City Hall. Hosted by Vietnam veteran and Councilman Bill Lusk, the festivities included singing, a demonstration by the Roswell JROTC, bagpipes and a speech by Nick Snider, founder of Atlanta's National Museum of Patriotism.
“What a great day to be an American,” said Snider during his speech.
Afterward Milton veterans Urban Rump and Clint Johnson read a list of fallen and living veterans from the city, then participants placed the Stars and Stripes in their family member's memorial markers on Deerfield Parkway. Photos by Jason Wright
U.S. flag from Iraq delivered to Chattahoochee ES - May '08 The United States flag was delivered via helicopter May 20 to Chattahoochee Elementary School by the U.S. Army led by Lt. Col. Andy Hall. The flag raised had previously flown with U.S. forces in Iraq. Photos by Logan Thomas
Flags over Johns Creek - May '08 The City of Johns Creek is encouraging residents and business owners to show their patriotism by displaying an American flag starting on Flag Day, June 14 and continuing through July 4. The initiative, called "Flags Over Johns Creek," is designed to encourage patriotism, inspire citizens to think about the meaning of the American flag, and serve as a symbol of support for troops abroad, said Councilmember Liz Hausmann, who suggested the program. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Atlanta Falcons' Finneran at Crabapple Crossing - May '08 Atlanta Falcons Wide Receiver Brian Finneran was invited to the school by assistant principal George Freiburger, with whom he played college football at Villanova. After a rousing version of the school's theme song by the fifth-grade chorus, he spoke to the children and parents in attendance about dedication, teamwork and working hard in athletics and school. Photos by Jason Wright
Trench collapse in Milton traps worker - May '08 A trench collapsed in the Hampshires subdivision in Milton May 19, trapping a construction worker in waist-deep dirt. The collapse occurred around 1:30 p.m., according to Milton Public Safety Department spokesman Lt. Shawn McCarty. He said a small crew of workers were digging a sewer trench at a home on Hamiota Ridge when the trench collapsed on the man. The weight of the dirt on his lower body was making it dangerous for crews to simply dig him out, McCarty said. Click here for full story. Photos by Taylor Gilliam
The Avenue Forsyth grand opening - May '08 The Avenue Forsyth opened May 14 off Exit 13 on Ga. 400. The first official night of shopping was kicked off by a celebration including students from Forsyth Central and South Forsyth high schools. Photos by Logan Thomas
Ribbon cutting @ The Avenue Forsyth's Barnes & Nobles - May '08 A crowd packed the new Barnes and Noble for the “Friends and Family” May 13 preview party at The Avenue Forsyth off Exit 13 on Ga. 400. A portion of all sales on the night went to the Forsyth County School system. Superintendent Buster Evans, Lanier Technical College Vice President Joanne Tolleson, Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce’s Kris Carroll and Cumming Mayor Ford Gravitt all took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony. Photos by Logan Thomas
Preview of The Avenue's AMC digital theatre - May '08 Digital theatres are something relatively new at American cinemas with the first AMC Entertainment all digital theatre opening at the end of last year.
Local movie-goers will get the chance to see the difference when the AMC Avenue Forsyth 12 opens May 16, the first of its kind in the state.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Lanier Tech expansion - May '08 The school celebrated May 13 the groundbreaking of a new Health Science Building and Economic Development Center that will double the size of the current Forsyth County Campus on Majors Road and provide the county with needed meeting space. In a special surprise, the school also named the current building after James Harrington, the individual who was instrumental in bringing the campus to the county. Photos by Logan Thomas
May Magic in Milton - May '08 Hold Your Horses, a Birmingham Highway tack store specializing in all-natural and adapted riding tack and horse feed, held an event May 4 called May Magic to benefit Driving Magic Inc.
Driving Magic is a Duluth-based non-profit organization that provides therapeutic carriage driving and horsemanship program for adults and children with disabilities. It is the only such carriage riding program in Georgia.
Yellow Rose Carriages offered rides in the Village at Birmingham Market shopping center, where the business is located. There was also plenty of activities for the kids, including horseshoe painting and games.
Photos by Jason Wright
Tour of Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park - May '08 The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park was officially unveiled to Atlanta-area media May 8. Tours were given that showed the ins-and-outs of Alpharetta’s newest concert venue, scheduled to open May 10 with a performance by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. That will be followed by the first ever rock show at the venue, The Eagles playing four nights starting May 14. Photos by Scott Sowers
Chick-Fil-A grand opening at The Avenue Forsyth - May '08 More than 150 people made their way to the brand new Chick-Fil-A set to open at The Avenue Forsyth May 7 in order to camp out for a year’s supply of free food. The restaurant normally has the first 100 camp out for 24 hours to win the prize, but due to the increased turnout, they took 130 brave people willing to battle the elements all in the name of nuggets and waffle fries. Photos by Scott Sowers
2nd Annual Fluff and Buff in Milton - May '08 Little River Animal Hospital on Birmingham Highway in Milton held its 2nd Annual Fluff and Buff dog wash fund raiser May 4. This year's event benefited Kristy A. Ward, a mother of two who worked for the business before she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in November, 2007.
The Fluff and Buff featured dog washing, pet adoption, food, arts and crafts, games and a silent auction.
Photos by Jason Wright
Run for a Reason in Forsyth - May '08 Justin Lance won a very important race April 27.
It wasn’t important to him, but to Hannah Shaver, a 7-year-old diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. Hannah was diagnosed March 18, 2005.
Runners turned out for the “Run for a Reason,” a 5K road race/walk to benefit Hannah.
For full race results and more information, visit http://runforareason.googlepages.com.
Photos by Peyton Harris
Forsyth Outlaws vs. Forsyth Fire - Apr. '08 The 11-year-old Forsyth Outlaws rode into Dobbs Creek Park April 19 ranked second in the Lanier Baseball League for a shootout against league rival Forsyth Fire. After a hard fought battle, the Forsyth Fire prevailed and topped the Outlaws 5-4. Photos by Kevin O'Brien
2008 Tour de Georgia Stage 5: Suwanee - Apr. '08 The 2008 Tour de Georgia made its way through Suwanee with the start of Stage 5 April 25. After the team time trial at Road Atlanta the day before, the cyclists will now see the race get tougher as they head to the mountains. The day’s stage ends in Dahlonega, and after that there will be one more mountain stage before the riders come down to Atlanta to finish the race April 27.
Some of the top riders from around the country and world are present at the race including Levi Leipheimer, George Hincapie, Tyler Hamilton and Greg Henderson, the overall leader starting off at Stage 5.
Photos by Scott Sowers
Newtown Dog Walk in Johns Creek - Apr. '08 Two State Bridge Crossing Elementary students organized and held a dog walk at Newtown Park April 20 that brought out droves of pet lovers. The benefits from the walk, organized by Chandler Smith and Sydney Weaver, went to the Atlanta Humane Society and Cindy’s K-9 Angels, a local rescue group.
In addition to the mile walk through Newtown Park (which started at the dog park, of course), the event included a sketch artist to draw pictures of your pooch, a dog toenail painter, the State Bridge Elementary Band and lots of treats for both human and dog alike. Photos by Jason Wright
West Forsyth HS presents ‘Once Upon A Mattress’ - Apr. '08 West Forsyth High School will present the musical comedy, “Once Upon A Mattress” April 24-27 at the school theatre. The production is a retelling of the fairy tale classic, “The Princess and the Pea.”
Forsyth Fire vs. Central Park Titans - Apr. '08 The Forsyth Fire, an 11-year-old youth baseball team, battled the Titans recently at Forsyth County’s Central Park in the Lanier Baseball League. The hard fought contest ended knotted up in a 7-7 tie. Photos by Kevin O'Brien
The first ever Johns Creek 5K - Apr. '08 The Johns Creek 5K race was held April 19 in Technology Park in Johns Creek. The first-ever race included a Fun Run and Tot Trot for children, as well as face painting, inflatable playhouse and a fire truck. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Southeastern Women’s Lacrosse League tourney in Milton - Apr '08 For the second year in a row Milton High School’s Booster Club hosted the Southeastern Women’s Lacrosse League (SWLL) Tournament the weekend of April 19-20.
The top eight teams in the southeast division — including UGA, Georgia Tech, Florida and Auburn — played for the SWLL Championship. UGA beat the undefeated Florida Gators 8-5 in the championship game Sunday afternoon and will advance to the Women’s Division Intercollegiate Associates National Championships May 7-10 in Denver. Photos by Jason Wright
Johns Creek PD's new rides - Apr. '08 The Johns Creek Police Department debuted a fully-equipped police car just before the April 14 City Council meeting. Council members and Mayor Mike Bodker were able to get in and check out the car. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Buster Evans visits Forsyth Central ceramics class - Apr. '08 Forsyth Schools superintendent Buster Evans participates in Mary Jane Taylor’s ceramics class at Forsyth Central High School April 15. Evans said that doing pottery is one of his favorite hobbies and that he even has a pottery wheel and a kiln. He made several pieces during the class including a vase and a bowl, and said he would love to return to get the chance to glaze them. Photos by Scott Sowers
Forsyth Teacher of Year finalists named - Apr. '08 Suzy Besson-Martilotta of Chattahoochee Elementary was selected as the elementary school teacher of the year, Mark Fisher of Otwell Middle School was selected as the middle school teacher of the year and Vince Cardosa of Forsyth Central High School was selected as the high school teacher of the year. Photos by Logan Thomas
Jeff Foxworthy at Alpharetta's Manning Oaks ES - Apr. '08 Comedian and TV personality Jeff Foxworthy visited Manning Oaks Elementary School in Alpharetta this week, bringing with him his latest book of children's poems, "Dirt on My Shirt," to read to students and staff. Photos by Candy Waylock
Shiloh 400 Business Center groundbreaking in Forsyth - Apr. '08 Crescent Resources & Cobalt Capital Partners have started construction of a new development known as Shiloh 400 Business Center, a 240,000-square-foot business park located off Georgia 400 at the McFarland Road exit in The Meadows. Photos by Logan Thomas
Lions top South Forsyth, 6-3 - Apr. '08 The South Forsyth High School War Eagles fell to the Peachtree Ridge Lions 6-3 March 26 in region 7-AAAAA action. Photos by Logan Thomas
Alpharetta Easter Egg Hunt - Mar. '08 Saturday morning, March 22, Alpharetta held an Easter Egg Hunt at North park in the softball fields. The popular and well-attended event included a hunt for the kids and opportunities for pictures with the Easter Bunny. Photos by Jason Wright
Big Brothers & Sister Easter Egg hunt in Forsyth - Mar. '08 The Easter Egg hunt was only the beginning of the event held for Big Brothers, Big Sisters March 22. Following the mad dash for eggs, the event included games and refreshments on a perfect Saturday afternoon. Photos by Logan Thomas
Forsyth County Sheriff hostage training session - Mar. '08 The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office held a training session at the County Courthouse March 12 in which three bad guys took hostages in the main courtroom. The tense scenario lated early into the next morning, with hostage negotiators taking charge once and SWAT team members charging in once. Photos by Jason Wright
Forsyth Oratorical Elementary School contest - Mar. '08 Presidential candidates aren’t the only ones currently showing off their speaking talents. It started with 3,884 Forsyth County students and ended up with the final eight.
The finalists competed March 12 at the Forsyth County Board of Education building. Winners included Tess Carley, Sarah Kale, Susan DeWitt, Jordan McGriff, William Harrison and Cody Gonsowski.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Kid Rock appears in Duluth - Mar. '08 Before his March 11 show at the Arena at Gwinnett Center, rockstar Kid Rock appeared at a Waffle House in Duluth to meet his fans. Hundreds of fans waited in line to see the Detroit native sign autographs and shake hands. This community service sprang up after the artist and several members of his entourage were arrested in October after an altercation in a DeKalb County Waffle House. Proceeds from the event were given to the Nicholas House, an Atlanta-based charity working to eradicate homelessness in the metro area. Photos by Scott Sowers
Atlanta Falcons Fanfest at Flagstar Bank The Atlanta Falcons hosted a fanfest event at the Flagstar Bank near Gwinnett Center Thursday Feb. 28. There were games and giveaways as well as the cheerleaders and Freddie Falcon making appearances, but the star attraction was current Falcons quarterback and former Bulldog hero, DJ Shockley. Shockley signed autographs and posed with fans for pictures during the afternoon’s festivities. Photos by Scott Sowers
South Forsyth High School's prom fashion show - Feb. '08 South Forsyth High School’s Advanced Fashion Marketing class produced a prom fashion show to promote dresses and tuxedos from Von Bergen Couture, Bravura Fashions, and Savvi Formal Wear. The fashion show was located at the school’s very own Performing Arts Center on Friday, February 22nd. Photos by Peyton Harris.
Exhibit of Wendy Murphy paintings - Feb. '08 Family and friends gathered on St. Valentine’s Day at DeKalb Office Environments on Ridgeland Parkway to launch the Wendy Murphy Outstanding Young Artist Scholarship Fund. Around 40 of her paintings were brought together to display the breadth and depth of her talent. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Mt. Pisgah students celebrate a Day of Service - Feb. '08 Mount Pisgah students in Johns Creek devoted their entire school day Feb. 13 to help others. Students created blankets, recorded Bible books on CD, bagged food for the hungry and boxed supplies for U.S. troops. The students celebrated the Day of Service with a special closing assembly, complete with representatives from the various charities to whom the students donated the items. Photos by Jennifer Brock
West Forsyth vs. Flowery Branch basketball - Feb. '08 The West Forsyth Wolverine boys basketball team defeated the Flowery Branch Falcons 76-49 Feb. 12 to advance in the 7-AAA region basketball tournament. Photos by Peyton Harris
Forsyth County Arts Alliance luncheon - Feb. '08 The Forsyth County Arts Alliance is striving to support local artists in different fields by generous grants. The first seven recipients of grants from Forsyth County Arts Alliance were honored at a luncheon at the Polo Golf and Country Club on Jan. 29. Photos by Jennie Duncan
Multicultural Night at Autrey Mill MS in Johns Creek - Feb. '08 Autrey Mill Middle School held Multicultural Night at the school Jan. 31. Students performed dances and songs as attendees dined on cuisine from all over the world. Multicultural Night is an annual event where the school celebrates diversity in the community and promotes inter-cultural understanding. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Tour of DataScan Holdings new HQ in Forsyth - Feb. '08 Automotive finance software and services company, DataScan Holdings, has opened its new, state-of-the-art corporate headquarters in Forsyth County, Georgia. Photos by Logan Thomas
Cumming ES spelling bee - Jan. '08 Twenty-four students in fourth through eighth grades competed in the spelling bee on Saturday, January 26th at Cumming Elementary School. Each was the champion of his or her own school’s spelling competition. Photos by Jennie Duncan
Vickery Creek Middle School Snowball Express - Jan. '08 Vickery Creek Middle School students took off for the “Snowball Express” ski and snowboard adventure to Cataloochee Ski area in North Carolina on Sunday Jan. 27. Photos by Kristen Berry
Family Science night in Forsyth - Jan. '08 Vickery Creek Elementary hosted Family Science night Jan. 29. Students and their families will have an opportunity to participate in two sessions.
In the first, they learned about and met Forsyth County's hard working police dogs. The second session blended fun and education through an interactive activity designed to educate about the danger of fires and the importance of trusting local firefighters.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Alpharetta celebrates Sesquicentennial - Jan. '08 One hundred fifty years since its charter was signed, Alpharetta began a year-long sesquicentennial celebration. Members of the Alpharetta Historical Society reenacted the signing of the charter, dressing in period clothing. Joining them at the Mansell House were city staff, elected offi-cials from the city and county and local residents -- including a former resident of the house.Photos by Bob Pepalis
Alpharetta woman celebrates 100 years - Jan. '08 Elsada Duncan turned 100 Jan. 15. As a special treat for her great grandson's kindergarten class at Cogburn Woods Elementary, she spoke on the 100th day of school. The students asked her questions, sang songs and danced. Then everyone had cake, skittles and juice boxes. Photos by Jason Wright
Minnie Lou Green's garden on Cogburn Road - Jan. '08 Minnie Lou Green and her caretaker Justin Adams have been working on creating a stone wall and wheelchair garden using recycled materials at Green's home on Cogburn Road. Here are some pictures of a few of the items on Green's property. Photos by Jason Wright
Big Brothers Big Sisters in Cumming - Jan. '08 A male role model can be a precious thing for a young man.
Sometimes nothing can take the place of having someone serve as a mentor.
But many young men are growing up with no male role model. This is exactly the need Big Brothers Big Sisters in Dawson, Hall and Forsyth Counties attempts to fill. Call 678-513-8600 or visit the new Web site at www.bbbsforsyth.org. Photos by Logan Thomas
T'ai Chi comes to Milton - Jan. '08 Charles Cautero has taught others T'ai Chi for more than 30 years as a way to repay those who taught it to him. He teaches a free class every Saturday morning in the Anytime Fitness parking lot in Crabapple. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Milton council member world traveling photog - Jan. '08 When not passing legislation or working as a CPA in Atlanta, Milton councilwoman Karen Thurman loves to travel and take photographs. Here is a collection of her favorite shots from her travels around the world. Photos by Karen Thurman
Forsyth poll workers prepare - Jan. '08 Forsyth County poll workers have been practicing for more than a week to prepare for the busy election year. During the practice session, the poll workers go through a mock election facing all possible scenarios from showing up without identification to voting at the precinct in order to prepare for real thing.
The presidential primary and vote on the special purpose local option sales tax will be held Feb. 5.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Johns Creek students participate in the Lego League - Jan. '08 A dozen Johns Creek students have been preparing for the FIRST LEGO League competition since last summer. The teams will compete Jan. 12 at Roswell High School in the regional competition. The team members have constructed robots that will be judged in the competition.
Photos by Jennifer Brock
Winter Warm Up Camp in Milton - Jan. '08 A group of 38 youth lacrosse players from across North Fulton participated in the Winter Warm Up Camp at Stars Lacrosse Club on Birmingham Highway in Milton Jan 3 and 4. In the first of its kind camp for the newly formed lacrosse club, Coach Mike Cerino and the mens’ lacrosse coaching staff from Limestone College, S.C. (NCAA Division II) directed the elementary, middle and high school students. Photos by Jason Wright
Cheryl Oakes takes the oath of office in Alpharetta - Jan. '08 Cheryl Oakes took the oath of office from Rep. Chuck Martin, R-Alpharetta, in front of her husband, daughter, granddaughter and a few dozen audience members. Oakes unseated Debbie Gibson in a hotly contested election won by fewer than 100 vote. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Johns Creek recycles its Christmas trees - Jan. '08 Boy Scout Troop 2000 out of Church of the Hills, in conjunction with Keep North Fulton Beautiful, held its “Bring One for the Chipper” event last weekend, which encouraged citizens to drop off their Christmas tree to be recycled and used for mulch.
Photos by Caron Cooper
Georgia state flag stops in Forsyth - Jan. '08 During a trip across the state, the Georgia State Flag visited Forsyth County Jan. 2 as part of the Georgia Flag Project. The USS Georgia is Georgia’s namesake submarine and is returning to service with new capabilities.
The project involves the Georgia State Flag traveling to all 159 Georgia counties. After visiting all the counties, the flag will be presented by Gov. Sonny Perdue to the Commanding Officer of the USS Georgia during the Return to Service Ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay on March 28. Photos by Logan Thomas
Forsyth Lego League county robotics tournament - Jan. '08 About 40 elementary teams competed in the Forsyth Lego League county robotics tournament last month. Each team received a box containing parts to construct a robot and any necessary attachments needed to perform up to 14 different tasks. The students were required to program their robot to perform these tasks all within a 2 ½ minute time frame. Photos by Jennie Duncan
