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.
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
2007
Shop with a Cop in Alpharetta - Dec. '07 Eighty children received some holiday cheer with help from Alpharetta and Milton police officers and firefighters Dec. 12 in the annual Shop with a Cop event. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Girl Scouts at Alpharetta's The Reading Tree - Dec. '07 Girl Scout troop 23345, led by Kathy Bloom and Elena Churnik, volunteered to wrap books that have been donated by the Alpharetta community and Scholastic Books at The Reading Tree bookstore in downtown Alpharetta. These books will then be donated to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to children who are hospitalized during the holiday season. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Johns Creek Founders Day - Dec. '07 Johns Creek celebrated its first birthday with the first-ever Founders Day Dec. 1. From the parade in the morning to the Lights for Sight event in the evening, residents and city officials honored the city's first official year in business. Photos by Jennifer Brock & Caron Cooper
Cumming ES students participate in The Giving Tree - Dec. '07 Students from Sheryl Morriss’ third-grade class at Cumming Elementary encourage others to donate to “The Giving Tree.” The event collects stuffed animals for different community organizations.
Photos by Logan Thomas
Roswell's Georgia Ensemble Theater Gala - Nov. '07 The Georgia Ensemble Theater held an event to recognize people who have made special contributions to the theater in Marietta, GA. Photos by Hatcher Hurd
Special Pops holds tennis tourney in Atlanta - Nov. 07 Athletes from all over the United States descended upon Metro Atlanta to take part in the Special Pops tennis tournament during the first weekend in November. Photos by Logan Thomas
Face of Hope opening at Milton's Urban Art gallery - Nov. 07 Crabapple art gallery Urban Art held the opening party for the Face of Hope exhibit Nov. 3, showcasing murals painted by African children orphaned by the continent's shattering AIDS epidemic. Photos by Jason Wright
Last minute campaigning from candidates in Alpharetta - Nov. 07 Alpharetta City Council candidate Cheryl Oakes campaigns with the help of supporter Mark Schmoyer across Webb Bridge Road from Fire State No. 1, a municipal polling place. Campaigning for incumbent Debbie Gibson, Oakes' opponent in the Post 4, race, are Bonnie Steadman and Bill Hickok. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Ribbon cutting at Forsyth's 3rd recycling center - Nov. 07 Forsyth County Commission Chairman Charles Laughinghouse spoke Oct. 30 to those attending the official ribbon cutting of the county’s third recycling center at Coal Mountain. Photos by Logan Thomas
Gym Class Heroes in Johns Creek - Nov. 07 Gym Class Heroes showed up for an autograph signing at the Verizon Wireless Store in Johns Creek on November 3. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Autrey Mill Heritage Festival in Johns Creek - Oct. 07 The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center held its annual Heritage Festival last weekend to raise funds to continue its mission of “providing the public with an educational resource to gain knowledge, enjoyment, appreciation and a sense of stewardship of the natural and historic environment.” The festival featured something for everyone including live reptile demonstrations, music by the Walnut Grove Bluegrass Band, historic automobiles, folk storytellers, face painting and more. For more information on programming and membership, call 678-366-3511 or visit www.autreymill.org. Photos by Caron Cooper
Falcons RB Warrick Dunn visits Vickery Creek MS in Forsyth - Oct Students at Vickery Creek M.S. had a special visitor on October 30. Students were greeted bright and early by Altanta Falcons running back, Warrick Dunn, who spent the morning at the school. Photos by Logan Thomas
Roswell MOMS club visit Freedom Pointe - Oct. 07 The MOMS Club Roswell - South chapter organized the event, which included residents and children passing out candy to one another and children making crafts for residents to hang on their doors. Photos by Jennifer Brock
Scientific Games new press inauguration in Forsyth - Oct. 07 Scientific Games and Gov. Sonny Perdue held a inauguration ceremony of the company's new printing press, which is capable of printing 8 billion instant lottery tickets per year. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Habitat for Humanity in Milton - Oct. 07 Milton's newest residents got their lives off to a great start on October 13 when the four recipient families of Habitat for Humanity homes celebrated the culmination of all their hard work. Photos by Jason Wright
Gwinnett Gladiators fan fest - Oct. 07 On Oct. 19, fans were invited to come to the arena early for a fan fest in the Gwinnett Center parking lot before their opening game. Photos by Logan Thomas
Milton Homecoming parade - Oct. 07 Milton held its homecoming parade Friday, Oct. 19 before the football game against Centennial. Starting in downtown Crabapple, the parade snaked through busy Birmingham Hwy. to Milton High School. There was plenty of candy thrown and proud parents waving at the floats and homecoming court. Photos by Jason Wright
Boy Scout Troop 200 of Parkway church in Cumming - Oct. 07 Boy Scout Troop 200 of Parkway Presbyterian Church won best overall troop of the seventeen troops that attended the Etowah District Fall Camporee Near Dawsonville on Oct. 12-14. Photos by Kristen Berry
Autrey Mill grant presentation in Johns Creek - Oct. 07 The afternoon was a hot one, but it didn’t keep the smiles from beaming and the gratitude from pouring. After years of waiting, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center finally received the promised grant money from the state for historical renovations and more. The deal was further sweetened with two generous corporate gifts from Wal-Mart and AT&T. Photos by Caron Cooper
Compassion in Action weekend in Johns Creek - Oct. 07 Last weekend, more than 60 churches along with Northview High School, Hands On Atlanta and the Gwinnett Coalition joined forces to make a difference during Compassion in Action weekend. Photos by Caron Cooper
Bus Trip Across Georgia at Otwell Middle School - Oct. 07 Education officials & business leaders received a heroic welcome at Otwell Middle School during the last northern leg of the 15th annual Bus Trip Across Georgia. Photos by Logan Thomas
Alpharetta students in Scarecrow Harvest - Sept. 07 Bobby Smith's 2nd grade class at Alpharetta Elementary school make a scarecrow for this year's Scarecrow Harvest in downtown Alpharetta. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Cheer Academy Twisters in Cumming - Sept. 07 Coach Rachel Van Dyke, 11, runs the weekly practice at Cheer Academy Twisters in Cumming for a cheerleading team for special needs children. Photos by Logan Thomas
Alpharetta High School wins Governor's Cup - Sept. 07 Governor Sonny Perdue and State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox traveled to Alpharetta High School on Sept. 17 to award the Governor's Cup trophy honoring improvement in SAT scores. Photos by Bob Pepalis
Auto Crusade Car show in Cumming - Sept. 07 The Auto Crusade Car show took place on August 25 at the Cumming Fairgrounds. Cars were judged in 5 categories including paint and body, engine detail, undercarriage, interior and overall. Photos by Kristen Berry
Roswell's "End of Summer Celebration" - Sept. 07 Roswell’s sixth annual “End of Summer Celebration” drew residents from all over North Fulton Saturday to enjoy the carnival, live music and most importantly, the cool evening. Photos by Caron Cooper
Chattahoochee River Summer Fest in Johns Creek - Sept. 07 The fifth annual Chattahoochee River Summer Festival in Johns Creek attracted residents for an afternoon of live entertainment, wildlife programs, educational exhibits and canoeing in River Glen Pond. Photos courtesy of Johns Creek residents
Milton Council planning for more parks - August 07 Despite its nearly 25,000 acres of rustic agricultural property, Milton is short on usable green space for recreation. The city has only has two functioning parks it has inherited from Fulton County – Bell Memorial Park, known for its four baseball fields, and the 200-acre Birmingham Park, a low maintenance, passive recreation field that has no programming and little use.
Photos by Jason Wright
Clay Fetish Pottery studio in Milton - August 07 Milton resident Stacey Stanhope and partner Chris Baumann create masterful works of clay at their Clay Fetish Pottery studio, which is located in an old horse barn off Hopewell Road in Milton. Photos by Jason Wright
Next Generation Power Force in Cumming - August 07 Shawn King and George Milam of the Next Generation Power Force came to Parkway Presbyterian Church in Cumming on Aug. 26 to show just how strong faith in God can be. Feats of strength were performed by driving nails into boards with their bare hands or bending rebar into the image of the Christian fish. Photos by Kristen Berry
Bowl for Kids’ Sake in Cumming - August 07 Bowlers raised approximately $25,000 Aug. 18 at the annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake for the Big Brothers Big Sisters held at Stars and Strikes in Cumming. Photos by Logan Thomas
Arts & Crafts at First Redeemer in Cumming Artistic talents were showcased on Aug. 18 at the Student Family Center at First Redeemer Baptist Church in Cumming. The annual event donates all proceeds from entrance fees and they are divided between the There’s Hope for the Hungry Ministry (a ministry that has already fed more than 22,000 individuals this year in north Georgia, and donated 239,739 pounds of food in 2007), and our Worldview Missions Ministry. Photos by Scott Sowers
Forsyth school superintendent meet and greet - August 07 Buster Evans, the current deputy superintendent and future superintendent of schools, speaks with Forsyth County residents at the meet and greet event that took place on Aug. 23. Photos by Logan Thomas
Drum Corps Associates in Johns Creek - August 07 Johns Creek welcomed the Drum Corps Associates’ southern division teams last weekend as they competed in the Peach State Invitational. Despite the brutal heat, all drum and bugle corps entertained spectators with their intricate routines and dedication to the craft. Photos by Caron Cooper
The McGinnis Ferry Road project groundbreaking - August 07 Representatives from the city of Johns Creek, Fulton County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, and the Georgia Department of Transportation break ground on the expansion of the McGinnis Ferry Road project. Photos by Scott Sowers
Johns Creek's National Night Out - August 07 Rivermont hosted this event designed to "take the streets back" and nearly 400 Johns Creek resident showed up to meet with their local law enforcement personnel. Photos by Jason Wright
Back to school in Johns Creek - August 07 Johns Creek went back to school this week to start the 2007-2008 school year. Students couldn’t wait to put on their new school clothes, but the best part was they were wearing smiles on their faces. Photos by Caron Cooper
Georgia 400 dedicated as "Hospitality Highway" - August 07 Elected officials and other leaders from communities along Ga. 400 gathered July 30 to celebrate the corridor's designation as the "Hospitality Highway." Photos by Logan Thomas.
Forsyth school secretaries annual luncheon - August 07 All of the secretaries and bookkeepers for Forsyth County schools were treated to a delicious start to the school year with the annual secretaries lunch August 7. Almost 180 of these hardworking people piled into the new West Forsyth High School cafeteria for a lunch courtesy of Sheffield Office Products, the school system’s provider of office supplies. Photos by Scott Sowers.
Tailgaiting at Life Point church in Johns Creek - August 07 LifePoint Church Pastor Chris Stovall recently said in a sermon that there is a difference between the people who just show up to church every Sunday and the people who are tailgating at eight in the morning because they can’t wait to get in and start service. So his congregation did just that. For full story, see “Tailgating at church OK on Sunday.” Photos by Shari Perkins.
Forsyth Central High School football camp - August 07 The Forsyth Central High School Bulldogs hit the field on July 31 for a Wing-T camp. The season kicks off for the Bulldogs on August 31 at 7:30 p.m. with an away game against Milton. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Johns Creek Kiwanis Club Wine tasting & auction - August 07 The Johns Creek Kiwanis Club held a wine tasting and silent auction fundraiser at The Village Market July 31. The club welcomed wine guru, Anita LaRaia, author of “Pick a Perfect Wine in No Time.” See story in the Aug. 9 edition of the Johns Creek Herald. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Ticket to Ride horse show in Alpharetta - August 07 The 3rd annual Ticket to Ride horse show was held at the Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta July 27 - 29. It was hosted by Jeff Foxworthy and included a silent auction and social. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
6th Annual Youth Fishing Derby in Alpharetta - July 07 On July 28, children ages 5 - 12 came out in wet weather to showcase their fishing skills battling for prizes for the longest fish and most fish caught. Photos by Mike DeHart.
Dizzy Dean U7 World Series in Forsyth County - July 07 It was the Kennesaw Rangers versus the Paulding County Lugnuts in the Dizzy Dean U7 World Series, held July 20-22 at Central Park in Forsyth County. Photos by Scott Sowers.
Tiny Stitches visits the Rotary Club in Alpharetta - July 07 Cathy Temple and Gloria Bantekas of Tiny Stitches visited the Rotary Club of Windward at its July 24 meeting at the Golf Club of Georgia. Tiny Stitches is a non-profit based in Gwinnett County. Among other things, they provide clothing and other items to disadvantaged newborns and preemies in north Georgia. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Jr. golfers from Milton & Suwanee compete in Florida - July 07 Michael Motz, 16 and Sloan Shanahan, 12 qualified to compete in the 2007 13th annual Optimist International Junior Golf Championships at the PGA National Resort and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida in July. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Harry Potter book release party in Cumming - July 07 On July 20, Humpus Bumpus bookstore in Cumming held a Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows book release party. Children and adults alike came dressed as their favorite characters. Photos by Scott Sowers.
Michelle Izmaylov booksigning in Alpharetta - July 07 16 year old, Michelle Izlmaylov, who attends Alpharetta High School, held a booksigning for her recently released young adult fantasy novel, "Dream Saver" at Costco in Alpharetta. Photos by Kanya Manoj.
Shakespeare Studio prepares for "Macbeth" - July 07 The Shakespeare Studio theater group is preparing for its next production of “Macbeth” that starts Aug. 3 at 8 p.m. at the South Forsyth High School Performing Arts Center. The studio is comprised of approximately 35 local actors age 11 to 27 from many places including Forsyth County, Milton, and Johns Creek. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Vacation Bible School @ Cumming's First Redeemer - July 07 Over 2000 kids ages three to eleven from Forsyth County packed into First Redeemer Church 10th annual Vacation Bible School July 16 - 20. This year's theme was “Game Day Central.” Photos by Scott Sowers.
Storytime at The Reading Tree in Alpharetta - July 07 Kids enjoy "Where the Wild Things are" at The Reading Tree's weekly storytime. The Reading Tree is located at 18 Cumming St. in Alpharetta. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Farmer's Market in Cumming - July 07 The Cumming Farmer’s Market has been offering locals a diverse selection of locally-grown produce straight from the source for nearly twenty years. Starting with four farmers, the market has expanded over the years to now have between 15 and 20 farmers showing up every Wednesday and Saturday morning to sell the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor to patrons. The Cumming Farmers Market takes place in the parking lot across the street from the fair grounds every Wednesday and Saturday morning from 7:00 to noon, but it is best to arrive early—many farmers leave once they sell out their stock. Photos by Scott Sowers.
2nd annual Embracing Life event in Johns Creek - July 07 The second annual Embracing Life event raised more than $125,000 for Mercy Flight Southeast and the Georgia Transplant Association. Larry and Sandy Dean hosted the event at Dean Gardens. Sandy, the current Mrs. Georgia, selected the two beneficiaries as her platform during the pageant, and she continues to help raise money and awareness for both organizations. Photos by Caron Cooper
Forsyth County deputy given a Medal of Valor - July 07 Cpl. Richard Thompson of the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office was honored by the Sheriff's Office July 11 with a Medal of Valor. The accolade commemorated Thompson's strident efforts to save William “Bob” Duncan, 66, of Jasper April 19. Though he was resuscitated by Thompson at the scene, Duncan died from injuries sustained while drowning in Lake Lanier. Photos by Jason Wright.
Alpharetta & Roswell vets protest city of Roswell - July 07 Veterans from the Alpharetta and Roswell posts of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars gathered at the Carl Black dealership on Ga. 9 July 13 to protest Roswell’s warning the memorial truck must be moved. Photos by Jason Wright.
Boy Scouts help Keep Milton Beautiful - July 07 Milton's Boy Scout Troop 3000 volunteered to participate in the city's inaugural “Keep Milton Beautiful” adopt-a-road program. Photos by Jason Wright.
Kids from Cumming and Roswell raise money for orphan - July 07 Fiona Matthews, 12, and Katie Baker, 9, are trying to raise money with their juice/cookie stand for a 13-year-old orphan in India named Brahmaiah that Katie’s grandparents, Jim and Carol Lambert from Grace Chapel Church of Christ in Cumming, have sponsored for two years. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Kid Chinese camp in Milton - July 07 Held at Milton's Birmingham United Methodist church, Kid Chinese is a week-long camp where children are exposed to Chinese language, writing, art and dance. Photos by Jason Wright.
Rivermont's 4th of July celebration in Johns Creek - July 07 The Rivermont neighbors got back to their roots with the subdivisions’ Picnic in the Park to celebrate Independence Day. The picnic was held at the Rivermont Park, about 27 acres on the Chattahoochee River.
Master Gardeners parade green thumbs in Roswell - July 07 The North Fulton Master Gardeners recently held their annual Garden Faire at Historic Bulloch Hall to raise money for the organization’s five main projects, including the wild flower garden at Big Trees Preserve, and designing, installing and maintaining gardens at Bulloch Hall, Autrey Mill, Archibald Smith Plantation and the Williams-Payne House. For more information about the club, visit www.griffin.uga.edu/fultonmastergarden.
Forsyth storm damage - July 07 On June 30, high winds mixed with rain caused damage to 25 homes in Forsyth County. Photos submitted by Captain Jason Shivers of the Forsyth County Fire Dept.
Summer art class in Cumming - July 07 Students of the art class at Cumming First United Methodist had the chance to show their talents in numerous mediums. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Alpharetta's Friendship ring sculptures - July 07 On July 2, the city of Alpharetta dedicated its Friendship Ring, a series of sculptured children around a tree at the corner of Old Milton and Roswell streets. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Balloons Over Georgia arrives at Cumming VBS - June 07 Cumming First United Methodist Church finished another successful Vacation Bible School by teaching the children to "Soar to New Heights With God." One of the major highlights of the week was a surprise visit by a hot air balloon from Balloons Over Georgia. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Hanson Farms in Cumming - June 07 Paula Guilbeau works as manager of Hanson Farms located at 4701 Piney Grove in Cumming as well as running their booth every Saturday at the Alpharetta Farmer's Market. Photos by Logan Thomas.
Lake Lanier Sailing club - June 07 The Lake Lanier Sailing club summer camp for kids ages 6 - 17 began on May 29, 2007. Photos by Kristen Berry.
ASO's new Alpharetta amphitheatre - June 07 The groundbreaking for the new Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra expects the amphitheatre to be open on May 10, 2008. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Abbotts Hill Elementary tree planting - June 07 The fifth-graders at Abbotts Hill Elementary wore their green thumbs recently. When they noticed a tree was dying, the students asked for a new tree to be donated and replanted. The tree was donated by CH2M Hill, contractor to the city of Johns Creek. For full story, search the archives for “roots” and look for the article entitled “It’s easy being green.” Photos by Caron Cooper.
Back to the Hooch river race & festival - June 07 The 5th annual Back to the Chattahoochee Race and Festival presented by the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, National Park Service and the city of Roswell. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Miracle League groundbreaking in Forsyth - June 07 Forsyth county officials and other community leaders gathered on June 11 for the official groundbreaking of a new playing field located at Coal Mountain Park. The expected completion date is April 2008.
Johns Creek celebrates new home - June 07 The new Johns Creek City Hall was filled with residents for the grand opening celebration. Johns Creek mayor, council members and city staff welcomed guests into their new home for a dedication and ribbon cutting. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Microsoft Across America hits Roswell - June 07 Dynasis, a Roswell-based IT solutions provider, recently hosted Microsoft Across America at its office. The nationwide road show gives business people hands-on experience with the latest technology in free half-day seminars. Photos by Bob Pepalis.
Chef Prudhomme at Apron Cooking School - June 07 Chef Paul Prudhomme was invited to introduce Publix's latest cooking school at the State Bridge Road Publix in Alpharetta/Johns Creek. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Milton Firefighters' BBQ - June 07 Milton Firefighters held a BBQ at Hickory Flat in Milton. It was attended by their families as well as members of City Council. Photos by Jason Wright.
Field trip to the Art Barn - June 07 Members of the Longstreet Baptist Church preschool class take a field trip to the Art Barn at Morning Glory farm.
Milton Girls Lacrosse Team - May 07 Milton High School Girls Lacrosse Team practicing and playing Lovett High. Practice photos: Jason Wright; Game photos: Jim Kallos
CNC's "A Night Out with Nature" - May 07 Chattahoochee Nature Center’s sixth annual black-tie gala, “A Night Out with Nature" showcased the nature center and its programs to local community, business and civic leaders. Photos by Christine Braden.
Johns Creek Mayor's Ball - May 07 The sold-out, first-ever Johns Creek Mayor’s Ball was a success. Not only did the newly-formed Johns Creek Foundation raise a considerable amount of money for two of its most cherished organizations, the Ocee Arts Center and the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, but it also had the chance to honor a few of its beloved contributors. Click here to read the article. Photos by Hatcher Hurd.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit - April 07 This weekend, April 14-15, marks the 95th anniversary of the sinking of the great White Star Line ship, the Titanic. Some 5,500 artifacts have been recovered from the sunken ship, including a 17-ton section of the hull, called “The Big Piece”
These artifacts have been put together into four exhibits that travel the world. And Atlanta is lucky to host “The Big Piece” and other fascinating artifacts during this anniversary weekend. See full story. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Kiwanis Art & Talent Competition - April 07 Area students recently competed in the Division 19 Kiwanis Art and Talent Show hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Alpharetta. Winners will go on to compete in the Georgia District Talent show in Carrollton April 28. See full story. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Storms damage North Fulton - April 07 Storms brought high winds and hail to North Fulton and Forsyth Counties late Tuesday, April 3 and early Wednesday, April 4.
Children's Easter Egg hunt - March 07 Alpharetta Recreation & Parks hosted their annual Children's Easter Egg hunt on March 31. Thousands of eggs and candy were hidden. The event was co-sponsored by the Alpharetta Golden Age club.
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center - April 07 The residents of Johns Creek have something in their own backyard unlike anything in the Atlanta area –- a historic natural park and center.
The Autrey Mill Nature Center and Heritage Preserve sits on 46 acres and includes an assortment of old buildings, all of which where originally within five miles of the park, as well as nature trails and camps/activities for young people. Click here to read the article. Photos and story by Caron Cooper.
Milton Cluster Band Concert - March 07 Milton Cluster Band Concert: Alpharetta Elementary, Cogburn Woods, Crabapple Crossing, Summit Hill, Hopewell Middle School, Milton High School
Ocee Library Children's Program The children's department accounts for more than 60 percent of the library's total circulation each month - and Ocee Library consistently ranks in the top three for cirulation in the entire Atlanta-Fulton Public Library system. For full story, search the archives for "Kids rule at Ocee." Photos by Caron Cooper and the Ocee Library.
2007 Roswell Showcase Home - March 07 The Roswell Woman's Club opened its 2007 Showcase Home, Lochstone Manor, March 4. The home will be open through March 27. For full story, search the archives for "showcase home." Photos by Caron Cooper.
JC Mayor throws first pitch Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker threw the first pitch for the Johns Creek Jaguars inaugural baseball game. For full story, search the archives for "first team." Photos by Terri Dinardo.
Mr. NHS 007 Junior Aaron Ruffin was chosen as the 2007 Mr. Northview High School. Check back soon for full story. Photos by Caron Cooper.
Johns Creek Kiwanis Charter Night The Johns Creek Kiwanis Club was chartered with over 40 members. For the full story, search the Archives for "Johns Creek Kiwanis." Photos by Caron Cooper.
Dads dine with kids for Valentine breakfast Hearts were big and smiles were wide during the Valentine’s Day Breakfast for Dads at the North River Baptist Church Center for Early Child Education.
Dads joined their kids for a delicious breakfast prepared by Jane Schwendenman, a member of the school committee.
After breakfast, dads joined their child in their preschool class where they made Valentines for mom.
The father/child Valentine breakfast has been a regular event for about nine years, according to Beverly Weaver, director of the preschool.
North River Baptist focuses on hands-on activities to provide the best learning experiences.
