Forsyth Herald - May 7, 2026

Nurturing nature

Forsyth

Mark Romzick, president of the Upper Chattahoochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited, carries his coat as the day warms up during a treeplanting initiative along the river May 3. Romzick said, “I love fly fishing, and this is

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A baby ate Cheerios from her mother’s hand April 28 as the Forsyth County Commission weighed whether to extend a housing moratorium that the mother said is making her dip into savings to cover household expenses.

Citing a need to continue revising land-use codes, commissioners unanimously approved a 180-day extension prohibiting the acceptance of rezoning applications during a special-called meeting. The extension applies to all residential zonings except for Residential 1, Mixed-Use Residential and Mixed-Use Commercial District.

The extension will expire Oct. 25.

Holding her infant in a baby carrier, the mother spoke against the measure, saying the freeze has prevented her from selling a Forsyth County property. A rezoning of the land would allow her to sell it for its full market value, she said.

“I’ve depleted every savings account I’ve built over the past 10 years, and this could change my life,” she said. “It’s just really hard to keep waiting and waiting and waiting, borrowing from our future to do so.”

HOUSING, Page 19

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Seasonal state burn ban runs through September

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The state’s annual burn ban for 54 North Georgia counties starts May 1, adding to the 91 counties in South and Central Georgia under a 30-day ban to prevent wildfires.

State law prohibits the open burning of yard and land-clearing debris in Metro Atlanta between May 1 and September 30. This is in addition to the year-round state ban on the burning of household garbage.

The ban is enacted to lessen the

Woman reports driver intentionally killed dog

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A French bulldog was killed April 26 after a vehicle reportedly swerved to hit it in the yard of a Jot em Down Road home.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched to the home about 1:45 p.m.

A 22-year-old Gainesville woman said she was walking the dog on a leash in the yard about 1 foot from the roadway. A lightblue, four-door pickup with “shiny wheels” allegedly swerved into the yard, hitting the dog.

She said she thought the driver intentionally hit the bulldog.

The woman added her dog had good leash manners.

The dog was taken to a veterinarian but died.

No tire track marks were found in the yard, and no video cameras were recording the area, the authorities said.

The incident was classified as a felony aggravated cruelty to animals case.

— Jon Wilcox

Suwanee man arrested following deputies’ pursuit

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 27-year-old Suwanee man was arrested on fleeing and reckless driving charges after a pursuit with

likelihood of wildfires and to enhance air quality in the drier months.

In Milton, there will be no open burning on properties zoned agricultural unless it qualifies for a specific exemption. However, those exemptions don’t apply when the Georgia Forestry Commission deems the fire danger to be a 3 or higher, which can be checked online daily.

Whether it’s before or after May 1, open burns for the disposal of yard debris are not allowed year-round in parts of

POLICE BLOTTER

All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

deputies April 22.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies attempted to stop a vehicle on Old Atlanta Road after determining it matched the description of one whose owner was wanted. The vehicle’s owner was charged with family violence, theft and trespass.

The vehicle allegedly sped away after deputies initiated their emergency lights. It reached high speeds and crossed into opposite lanes of travel, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies reached speeds of 90 mph in their chase.

The vehicle eluded deputies near Westminster Lane, but the driver was later arrested in Gwinnett County.

— Jon Wilcox

Jewelry reported stolen in North Point burglary

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise was reported stolen from a North Point Parkway jewelry store April 9.

Alpharetta police said officers were

Milton that aren’t zoned agricultural. The burn ban coincides with the majority of Fulton County experiencing an extreme drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, despite recent rainfall. Wildfires continue to break out in counties across South Georgia after the burn ban was implemented April 22. The two largest wildfires, the Pineland Road Fire and Ga. 82 Fire, have burned nearly 55,000 acres combined.

— Hannah Yahne

dispatched to the business about 5 a.m. after an alarm was triggered.

Officers found a front door had been pried open, and jewelry cases were ransacked.

No suspects were found at the location.

About $10,000 of jewelry was reported stolen, according to the police report.

The incident was classified as a felony forced burglary of a business.

— Jon Wilcox

Social worker alleges elder abuse of woman

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Police Department was alerted to a possible incident of elder abuse and financial fraud at a private residence April 22. It occurred while a 79-year-old woman was living with her daughter off Nesbitt Ferry Road.

The woman was admitted to a nursing and rehabilitation center on Clifton Road and disclosed to a social worker that she was not properly cared for while living with her daughter. She reported she would only receive one change a day when multiple changes were required.

She also alleged that her daughter would use her debit card without permission and make unauthorized purchases and withdrawals. She was unable to provide specific dates or amount of money taken.

The Roswell Police Department said it would file an inquiry with adult protective services.

— Hannah Yahne

Fire Department announces collection for wildfire victims

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Fire Department is inviting residents to help assist people affected by wildfires in South Georgia.

Through May 10, residents may drop off nonperishable items at all Forsyth County Fire Stations and the Public Safety Complex, 3520 Settingdown Road.

The fire department will work with local organizations to deliver the items to distribution points in the southern part of the state.

For more than a week, wildfires have burned tens of thousands of acres, displacing many residents.

Fire Chief Barry Head said the department appreciates the generosity of residents willing to help those in need.

“Forsyth County residents have proven time and time again that they are caring people, ready to help others,” he said.

Suggested items include shelf stable foods, nonfood essentials like diapers, trash bags and feminine hygiene items, clothing and pet items.

For a more complete list of usable items, visit forsythco.com.

For any additional information, contact Division Chief Jason Shivers at 404392-4456 or RJShivers@forsythco.com. — Jon Wilcox

Through May 10, the Forsyth County Fire Department

COMMUNITY

Volunteers plant trees to foster Chattahoochee watershed

By STANLEY LEARY newsroom@appenmedia.com

CUMMING, Ga. — About two dozen volunteers gathered Sunday morning, May 3, at Chattahoochee Pointe Park to plant native trees along the Chattahoochee River, part of a community initiative to improve water quality and enhance the local ecosystem.

The event, hosted by Forsyth County Parks & Recreation in partnership with Trout Unlimited and sponsored by Salesforce, focused on restoring the river’s riparian buffer — the vegetation zone critical to protecting waterways.

Volunteers planted native trees, including American sycamore, willow oak, red maple and river birch. These species are well-suited for riparian environments, where their root systems stabilize stream banks, reduce erosion, and filter pollutants before they reach the river.

“This initiative supports long-term water quality and strengthens habitat health,” said Parks & Recreation Director Kirk Franz. “We are helping preserve natural resources while improving environmental health for future generations.”

Leading the effort was Sean Sieler, National Engagement Coordinator for Trout Unlimited, who provided instruction on proper planting techniques and explained the project’s environmental impact. He emphasized that planting along waterways helps cool creek temperatures — a key factor for aquatic life — while also improving habitat conditions.

The trees planted were 3-gallon container stock, a size commonly used in restoration projects because it offers a balance between survivability and ease of planting.

These young trees are large enough to establish quickly and withstand environmental stress, yet small enough for volunteers of all ages to handle and plant efficiently.

The effort was part of a broader initiative to support the Upper Chattahoochee watershed.

Among the volunteers was Heidi Bailey, who attended with her children, Shelly and William.

“We came after seeing the event on Facebook,” Bailey said. “We love trees and plants and also know how important they are to the environment.”

Mark Romzick, an avid fly fisherman, said conservation work like this directly impacts the future of the river.

“I love fishing, and this is a way to preserve streams for future generations,” he said.

Organizers encouraged community members of all ages to participate, noting that hands-on projects like this not only improve the environment but also build awareness and connection to local natural resources.

Forsyth County reopens Bennett Park after major renovation

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County debuted a large-scale renovation of Bennett Park April 29.

Officials celebrated the reopening of the park, 5930 Burruss Mill Road, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting at 1 p.m., saying it marked a transformation that will well serve the next generation of residents and their children.

“The purpose of the park hasn’t changed,” Parks & Recreation Director Kirk Franz said. “This is still where kids will play on a field for the first time, where parents will cheer from the sidelines, where memories will be made.”

The project was funded by a 2023 $2.2 million Improving Neighborhood Outcomes in Disproportionately Impacted Communities Grant. The park is one of 142 projects in Georgia to receive funding from the grant.

The project cost a total of $25.8 million with the remaining cost coming from a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, capital outlay and impact fees and other sources.

The contractor for the project was MAPP, and the designer was Hussey Gay Bell.

Renovations at Bennett Park include two multipurpose artificial turf rectangle fields, three baseball-softball fields, two full-court outdoor basketball courts, batting cages, picnic pavilions, a new community building, playground, trails and expanded parking.

District 4 Commissioner Mendy Moore said the renovation was important given the area’s growth.

“Since opening in 1978, Bennett Park has served generations of Forsyth County families,” she said. “This part of Forsyth County has grown tremendously, and the northeast portion of the county deserves amenities that reflect that growth.”

— Jon Wilcox

Jimmy Song (NMLS#1218336) 770-454-1871 (Duluth Branch)

Sandy Na (NMLS#983548) 770-454-1861 (Norcross Branch)

Trinh Pham (NMLS#1369150) 678-672-3926 (Norcross Branch)

Atlanta primes for hosting World Cup matches

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA, Ga. — The World Cup is coming to Atlanta starting with a match between Spain and Cape Verde June 15 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Matches hosted here run through July 15.

The first game of the Cup will be in Mexico City between Mexico and South Africa June 11.

Decatur will host several watchfests, starting with the Opening Ceremony headlined by an appearance by Savannah native Big Boi. The rapper will be performing at the Opening Ceremony of Decatur Watchfest June 11 to celebrate the beginning of the tournament that takes place once every four years.

June 15 is when Atlanta will host its first game at Mercedes-Benz. Atlanta’s next game is June 18 at noon where Czechia and South Africa face off.

June 21, Mercedes-Benz will host its third game where Spain will play against Saudi Arabia. On June 24, the fourth game will be played, Morocco versus Haiti.

Atlanta’s final game of the group stage will be Uzbekistan versus Democratic Republic of the Congo June 27.

From there, they will have three remaining games in the single-elimination bracket at Mercedes-Benz. The teams are yet to be determined, but the times have been established.

For the round of 32, Mercedes-Benz will host a game at noon July 1. The round of 16 game will take place at the same time July 7.

The final game in Georgia, and the biggest, will be July 15 for the semifinals at 3 p.m.

There will be a Closing Ceremony at Decatur Watchfest the day of the finals with a performance by the Indigo Girls.

Team USA will play its first game of the group stage the next day at 9 p.m. in Los Angeles.

Team USA will play its second game the next day in Seattle against Australia.

Team USA’s last group stage game is against Turkiye in Los Angeles June 25.

On July 18, the Bronze Medal match will take place in Miami. The finals are being played in New York on July 19.

Just opened?

10 | Forsyth Herald | May 7, 2026

Casa Nuova annual block party raises $30,000 for cancer research

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Since 2000, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant’s annual block party has served as owner Maria Fondura’s way of thanking the Alpharetta community for more than two decades of support.

More than 600 people attended the restaurant’s May 3 block party. They filled a buffet line that wrapped around the building as they awaited pasta, empanadas, brisket and seafood paella cooked live at the center of it all.

For Fondura, caring about guests and making them feel welcome is central to the restaurant’s identity.

“It’s a marriage, the service and the food,” Fondura said.

Peter DeJesso has been eating at Casa Nuova in Alpharetta for more than 20 years.

“She always comes around and gives people hugs because she’s just that kind of person,” DeJesso said. “She likes to make sure everyone’s happy.”

Family friends Henry Santos and his daughter Jennifer Santos Sosa traveled from St. Augustine, Florida, to cook paella at the gathering – a tradition spanning most of their 19-year friendship with the Fonduras.

“You get to see a lot of people, old friends,” Henry said. “Every time we come, they’re all looking for us and expecting us to be here, so that’s a good thing. That makes us feel proud, that we’re doing something great.”

The families met through both their sons’ time at Georgia Tech, and Santos said there was an instant connection.

He spoke about Maria’s husband, Antonio, who died in 2021 after more than 45 years in the restaurant industry.

Antonio founded Alfredos, an Italian restaurant known in Atlanta for high-quality, comfort food that closed in 2017. In the 1980s, he pioneered the city’s first open-kitchen concept. After stepping away from the industry, Antonio wanted to recreate Alfredos closer to the family’s new home in Milton.

Between her intelligence and drive, and Antonio’s perseverance and talent, Santos said they created a legacy.

All that’s asked of guests in exchange for free food is a donation to

Fondura’s nonprofit, Purple Pansies. This year, attendees donated more than $30,000 to fund pancreatic cancer research and provide financial support to patients and their families.

“Every dollar that we raise goes directly to our cause,” Fondura said.

After losing her mother in 2007 to pancreatic cancer within three months of a diagnosis, Fondura began collecting donations at her annual gathering to give to existing charities. What started as a grassroots effort became a nonprofit in 2017 that has raised more than $8 million toward clinical trials, research and emergency grants for families.

“Every time that I have a campaign for pancreas cancer as Purple Pansies, I’m honoring her … she’s still alive,” Fondura said.

She said it’s rewarding to see patients with hope – something that Fondura’s mother didn’t have after her diagnosis.

Each year, Purple Pansies hosts a fundraising gala and invites local survivors to meet those supporting research.

Pancreatic cancer survivor Maryanne Winchester from Roswell was invited to the gala and was pleased to learn about a local organization supporting this cause.

“The thing that hits home for us is because … I know where these funds

go,” Winchester said. “The research is amazing because it gives all of us a hope that there’s something else to try when we need it.”

To learn more about the Purple Pansies or donate, visit purplepansies. org.

Creekside Overlook debuts near Lake Lanier with model now open and homes from the $700s

Brought to you by -

LLANE & Co.

A rare opportunity for spacious, refined living has arrived just minutes from Lake Lanier with the official debut of Creekside Overlook—now selling from the $700s. Featuring a beautifully decorated model home now open for touring, this new community offers a distinctive blend of luxury, privacy, and convenience in one of North Georgia’s most desirable settings. Creekside Overlook is designed for buyers seeking more room to live, entertain, and unwind. Homes are situated on expansive homesites ranging from .59 acre to over 1.39 acre, providing a level of space and separation that

is increasingly hard to find in today’s market. The community’s natural setting, paired with its generous lot sizes, creates an elevated residential experience that feels both private and connected to the surrounding landscape.

The newly opened decorated model home offers a firsthand look at the thoughtful design and craftsmanship that define Creekside Overlook. Built by David Patterson Homes these floorplans showcase open concept living, designer finishes, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The model highlights how today’s buyers can enjoy both everyday comfort and upscale entertaining. From spacious kitchens and inviting gathering areas to well-

appointed owner’s suites, each home is designed to reflect modern lifestyles with timeless appeal.

Beyond the homes themselves, Creekside Overlook’s location is a major draw. Just minutes from Lake Lanier, residents have easy access to boating, waterfront dining, and yearround recreation. Whether it’s a morning on the water, an afternoon hike, or an evening out nearby, the community offers a lifestyle that balances relaxation with activity.

At the same time, Creekside Overlook remains conveniently connected to major thoroughfares, shopping, and dining, allowing homeowners to enjoy the tranquility of a more natural set -

ting without sacrificing accessibility. Currently Creekside Overlook has 5 Homes Ready for Move-In this summer. With homes now selling from the $700s, a decorated model open for tours, and up to $45K in special incentives, Creekside Overlook is poised to attract buyers looking for space, style, and a location that truly stands apart. For those seeking a new home near Lake Lanier with room to grow and room to breathe, Creekside Overlook delivers a compelling new choice in the North Atlanta market. Open House every weekend – Saturday: 11am –5pm and Sunday: 1pm – 5pm. Sales and Marketing by LLANE & Co. Equal Housing Opportunity.

The rise of off-market appeal

Brought you by – Peachtree Town and Country

There has been growing conversation around homes being sold “off-market” or as private exclusives — quietly shared with a limited audience before ever reaching the broader market.

On the surface, this approach can feel appealing. It suggests discretion, control, and efficiency.

But in today’s market, it also raises an important question: what is potentially being left behind?

Value is defined by the market

A home’s value is not determined in isolation; it is established by what the market is willing to pay. And the only way to truly understand that value is through full exposure. When a home is introduced to the entire market, it invites visibility, interest, and most critically, competition.

Where competition changes everything

More buyers create more engagement. More engagement creates urgency. And urgency is what ultimately drives stronger pricing. Without that dynamic, the outcome relies on a smaller, more

limited pool of buyers—and the hope that one of them is willing to meet the highest possible value.

The power of timing and momentum

In our experience, the strongest offers rarely come from the first showing or a single interested party. They emerge when multiple buyers recognize the opportunity at the same time, understand the stakes, and act decisively. That environment simply cannot be replicated in a private, off-market setting.

Our Director of Growth and Excellence, Gina Campbell, recently shared a telling example: “I showed a couple a home that, on paper, was a strong on-market opportunity, but it ultimately didn’t feel like the right fit. Their hesitation came down to price—especially when compared to a more updated home across the street that was being offered off-market. What’s interesting, though, is that the on-market home still closed nearly $50,000 over asking—a reminder that the market ultimately tells the real story.”

Confidence drives stronger outcomes

Equally important is buyer confidence. Today’s buyers expect transpar -

ency. They want to feel assured they are seeing all available opportunities and participating in a fair, open process. When that confidence is present, it often translates into stronger offers, better terms, and a smoother overall transaction.

Our perspective is right now

For these reasons, our guidance remains clear. The most effective path for most homeowners is to prepare thoughtfully, launch strategically, and allow the full market to engage. That is where momentum is built, and where optimal outcomes are achieved.

Because ultimately, selling a home is not just about finding a buyer. It is about creating the right conditions for the best possible result. And those conditions are only realized when the market is fully aware, fully engaged, and allowed to do what it does best.

“The goal isn’t simply to find a buyer, it’s to create the conditions where the best buyer is compelled to act. When the market is fully aware, buyers move with confidence, and that confidence is what drives stronger outcomes.”

— Bill Rawlings, Founder & CEO, Peachtree Town & Country

The most dangerous place for seniors

Brought to you by – Bath and Kitchen Galleria

The bathroom, a place we take for granted, transforms into one of the most hazardous areas in the home for aging seniors. With slippery surfaces, high tub walls, and the need for frequent maneuvering, the risk of falls—the leading cause of injury among older adults—spikes dramatically. John Hogan, President of Bath and Kitchen Galleria and Aging in Place Expert says, “Proactive bathroom modifications are not merely an upgrade; they are an essential investment in the long-term safety, independence, and dignity of our seniors.”

To mitigate the dangers, several specific aspects of the bathroom should be modified to create a supportive and accessible environment:

Shower and Bathtub: The single greatest fall risk is often stepping over a high tub wall. The ideal solution is a curbless or low-threshold walkin shower to eliminate this barrier entirely. For added security, install a permanent shower seat or bench

and a handheld showerhead to allow for comfortable, seated bathing. Shower floor should have non-slip tile surfaces.

Grab Bars: Strategically placed sturdy, professional-grade grab bars are critical. They must be securely

anchored into wall studs, not just the drywall. Placement is key: near the toilet to assist with sitting and standing, and both inside and just outside the shower/tub for secure entry and exit. Modern grab bars come in a variety of stylish finishes to

seamlessly blend with your décor.

Toilet Area: A standard toilet can be difficult to use for those with limited mobility. Installing a comfortheight or raised toilet seat reduces the strain on joints and makes the transition from sitting to standing much easier. Pairing this with wellplaced grab bars provides a significant boost in stability.

Flooring and Lighting: Replace slippery tile or remove loose bathmats and throw rugs, which are tripping hazards. Install slip-resistant flooring throughout the bathroom. Finally, good lighting is paramount. Bright, even lighting—including motionsensor nightlights—helps seniors navigate safely, especially during middle-of-the-night trips.

By implementing these thoughtful changes, the bathroom can evolve from a high-risk area into a secure, comfortable, and accessible space that supports an aging senior’s desire to age in place safely at home. For more information visit Bath and Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta (no appointment needed) or call them at 678-459-2292.

Tune-Up Projects

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New Countertops, Sink & Faucet

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Cut Down 2-level Island

Bathroom Tune-Up

New Countertops, Sink & Faucet

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Nothing stays the same, does it?

RAY APPEN

Many years ago, Florida State University was my home for nearly a decade. Every time I drive through Tallahassee or south toward the coast, the sense of time passing hits me like a cold shower.

From Tallahassee to the Gulf, the landscape remains largely old Florida. Century-old oaks draped in Spanish moss line slow, winding roads with Native American names. Families still farm land-grant acreage originally deeded by Spanish colonial authorities or the U.S. government in the early 1800s. North of town, between Tallahassee and Thomasville, Georgia, sprawling hunting plantations occupy thousands of acres originally owned — and some still owned — by Northeastern industrialists, among them the Phipps and Carnegie families.

Many continue to operate today, hosting well-heeled guests during hunting season. To the west, however, much of that old Florida is gone. Some new residential communities feature coastal mansions listed at $5 million to $10 million. The area now resembles an overdeveloped, gated resort community more than a stretch of natural coastline. Development is coming to the rest of the Panhandle, but for now, a few years may remain.

Some of the old haunts I frequented in Tallahassee are gone. I spent countless hours at Pastime Billiards on Tennessee Street — far more time than I spent studying. The floor was covered in peanut shells; patrons simply threw them down. Cheap beer, boiled peanuts, thick cigarette smoke and some of the South's best pool hustlers filled the place, most playing 9-ball for thousands of dollars. Pastime drew players from across the region because of its central location along the circuit connecting New

Orleans, Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte and Jacksonville. The best of them, Mike Carella, held a permanent table in the corner. Watching him play was like watching Tiger Woods or Wayne Gretzky at the height of their craft — except it was pool. He could run rack after rack without missing, always for money, and was known as much for his gambling as for his skill at the table.

He was later confirmed to have been running drug shipments into the United States for a cartel. He was found dead in a Miami hotel room, shot multiple times. He was, in some ways, a force of nature.

Mike's Beer Barn, another institution, was nearby. So was Bullwinkle's, a bar on Tennessee Street across from the FSU campus, founded in 1956 by former FSU football player Mike Norman. By 1961, the establishment was open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, moving thousands of kegs of beer. In the 1970s, it was ranked the No. 1 beer retailer in the nation. It is still in business today, though the old Tal-

lahassee atmosphere has faded — as it has everywhere.

Fred's Dry Dock operated two locations: one on Tennessee Street on the west side of town, another off Tharp Street to the north. Both were high-volume, no-frills bars serving stiff, cheap drinks to packed crowds. Any number of FSU students barely survived the 50-cent bottom-shelf shots. One of the manager-bartenders, a woman named Brenda, eventually went to prison for what she was selling under the bar — and it was not liquor. Both locations have since closed, which is probably for the best. Very little stays the same over time. Perhaps that is what makes the things that do endure — or nearly endure — so compelling. It is a race against time, and no one wins. But if we are smart and fortunate, we embrace the passage of time and savor each moment, each image, each memory, each relationship, whether it involves people, places or the natural world. Old Florida is worth savoring. There is still some of it left.

Falling in love with houses you can’t afford

There’s a peculiar modern ritual in homebuying: you scroll listings, tour a few homes, imagine where the couch goes, maybe even name the future dog — then discover you can’t actually buy the place. It’s like testdriving a Ferrari with a bicycle budget. Enter mortgage pre-approval, the unglamorous but essential step that separates the serious buyers from the enthusiastic tourists.

Here’s the reality, minus the fairy tale.

1: It tells what you can afford

Without pre-approval, you’re operating on vibes and Zillow optimism. A lender, however, deals in numbers — your income, debt, credit, and assets — and translates that into a price range grounded in reality.

It may not be as fun as guessing, but it does prevent the emotional spiral of falling in love with a home that belongs to someone with a significantly larger paycheck.

2: Sellers take you seriously

In competitive markets, submitting an offer without pre-approval is a bit like proposing on a first date — with no job. Sellers want certainty. A pre-approval letter tells them you’ve been vetted and are capable of closing. Without it, your offer can quietly slide into the “nice try” pile.

3: It lets you move at market speed

Good homes don’t linger. They appear, they charm, they vanish. If you’re not preapproved, you’re pausing to call a lender while someone else is already signing paperwork. Pre-approval means you can act immediately — no scrambling, no missed opportunities.

4: It reduces unpleasant surprises

There are few experiences more

frustrating than getting under contract, paying for inspections, and then discovering your financing falls apart. Pre-approval pushes most of that financial scrutiny to the front of the process, where it belongs — before you’re emotionally or financially invested.

5: It strengthens your negotiating position

Sellers don’t always choose the highest offer — they choose the one most likely to close. Certainty has value. A pre-approved buyer brings that certainty, and that can make your offer more attractive, even in a crowded field.

6: It helps you fix problems early

If there’s an issue — credit, debt, savings — you’ll find out before you’re picturing yourself hosting holidays in the dining room. That early awareness gives you time to address the problem and re-enter the market in a stronger position.

Sometimes we’ll make the call

When needed, we’ll even reach out to the listing agent and advocate on your behalf — because in real estate, a little reassurance can go a long way.

The bottom line

House hunting without pre-approval is like shopping without checking your bank account. It’s fun right up until reality arrives. Pre-approval, on the other hand, turns curiosity into capability.

It’s the difference between browsing… and actually buying.

DC Aiken is Senior Vice President of Lending for CrossCountry Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.

The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC or its affiliates.

Each line in the puzzle below has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

WEATHER WATCH

1. Apothecary’s weight. Sultry. Gardener’s stock.

2. Breezy. Knight fight. Baker’s supply.

3. Winter forecast. Thin cracker. South American mountain range.

4. Bread unit. Bird of prey. Nice weather prediction.

5. Coffee order. Kind of prize. Umbrella weather.

6. Music genre. Wintry. Belt-shaped region in the heavens.

7. Part of AWOL. Opera star. Dry as a bone.

Watch

1 Apothecary’s weight. Sultry. Gardener’s stock.

2. Breezy. Knight fight, Baker’s supply.

How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

3. Winter forecast. Thin cracker. South American mountain range

4. Bread unit. Bird of prey. Nice weather prediction

5. Coffee order. Kind of prize. Umbrella weather

6. Music genre. Wintry. Belt-shaped region in the heavens.

7. Part of

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

line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

Tips and tricks for ‘senior’ gardeners

Not that any of this applies to you, but in case you are “asking for a friend...” Read on!

Gardening is the second most common leisure activity for older adults. The personal benefits of gardening are wellestablished: stress relief, exercise, fitness and regulation of emotions. As we age, gardening also protects our cognitive function and improves our ability to focus. It gives us a sense of accomplishment, which boosts our overall health and happiness. Studies show gardening promotes positive aging and may lower the risk of dementia by up to 36 percent.

Who can turn down an opportunity to dig in the dirt? However, with aging we may develop mobility, functional and physical limitations. Read on for smart gardening suggestions to protect and extend our abilities to garden.

Protect aging skin. Skin becomes thinner and more sensitive as we age, increasing the risks of cuts, scrapes and rashes. Wear long sleeves, gloves and pants to protect your skin. Always use SPF sun protection and a hat.

Minimize pain. Aching muscles and joints are often an obstacle for older gardeners, particularly low back pain, neck pain, shoulder tendonitis, carpal tunnel and kneecap bursitis. A few ways to deal with these issues:

• Limit bending over by using a garden bench/seat and long tools for weeding.

• Keep all your tools handy with a garden tool belt or a rolling cart.

• Water efficiently with drip systems or soaker hoses or use lightweight expandable hoses to minimize hauling heavy hoses around the yard.

• Prioritize mulching to decrease weeds and watering requirements.

• Minimize hand and wrist fatigue with lightweight, ergonomic tools designed for “experienced” fingers.

• Using long-handled tools such as a stirrup or diamond tipped hoe can really simplify weeding.

• Use garden augers attached to any power drill to make planting bulbs and small plants easier and cut through those pesky roots.

Most injuries from gardening come from heavy lifting and repetitive motion, such as hauling bags of soil and weeding. Recent research has focused on gardening biomechanics and ergonomics to prevent injury. Here are some recommendations:

• Break up gardening tasks into

20–30-minute increments.

• Change your body position and grip during longer activities.

• Warm up your body with stretching or a short walk before gardening.

• Take breaks to stretch during your gardening and especially afterward.

• Counter the effects of gardening on your body with swimming and yoga.

• Recruit help if you are unable to safely complete a task.

Raised garden beds and container gardening can allow us to continue to benefit from gardening with fewer physical demands.

The higher the raised bed, the less need for bending and stretching. Raised bed soil is loose, well-draining, and free of contamination from pests and weeds. Raised beds can be freeform, square or rectangular, are usually wood or metal

and may be on wheels or elevated to facilitate gardening from a wheelchair.

Metal raised beds are usually galvanized steel, coated with a zinc alloy to prevent rusting. They can be ordered online in numerous sizes, colors and configurations. Selection usually depends on available space and access to a water source. The height should be at least 3 feet to limit bending. To minimize stretching, the width is typically 2 feet but may be as wide as 4 feet if the bed is accessible on all sides. The depth of an elevated bed should be at least 18 inches, and 24 inches or deeper is ideal. Ensure adequate drainage. Low maintenance plants such as daylilies, herbs, hostas, coral bells and succulents are likely to thrive in a raised bed with minimal care. Raised beds are food-safe and ideal for raising vegetables.

You can make large containers easier to move around by reducing the weight and filling the bottom with pinecones or recycled water bottles before adding potting soil.

While bagged raised bed soil is excellent quality, filling a large, raised bed with bagged soil and compost can be expensive. Other options for filling a raised bed are the “lasagna method” and “hügelkultur” (an old German technique). With the lasagna method, the bed is filled with alternating layers of green and brown material. The green layer consists of vegetable scraps, garden trimmings and grass trimmings. The brown layer includes dry leaves, shredded newspaper, peat and pine needles and should be twice as thick as the green layers. Garden soil is placed on top. With hügelkultur, a layer of cardboard is placed at the bottom of the bed, followed by decaying logs, thinner sticks, 12 inches of compost and topped with garden soil. Both methods are inexpensive and sustainable.

You are never too old to enjoy the experience of planting and the wonder of watching things grow.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/ opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/.

Catch North Fulton Master Gardeners at these scheduled events throughout the season:

• Alpharetta Farmers’ Market

• Sandy Spring Farmers’ Market: Diggin’ in the Dirt kid’s activities

• Crabapple Festival in Milton this fall

About the Author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Anne Wiskind, a Master Gardner who completed her Fulton County Master Gardner curriculum in April 2024. She is a lifelong gardener with an active interest in ecological gardening and encouraging biological diversity. Anne is appreciative of the mentorship from the North Fulton County Master Gardeners. She does most of her gardening at her home in Blairsville, Ga.

Housing:

Continued from Page 1

Land use attorney Ethan Underwood told commissioners he thinks there are many other property owners who share the mother’s concerns. He said although many residents may support the pause, landowners have a right to petition their government for rezonings.

“They don’t realize how much it is affecting their neighbors that have property,” he said. “It’s a civil liberty. I don’t know why the commission needs 18 months to amend the code.”

Owners sometimes seek a rezoning to increase their property’s value with prospective buyers who would purchase the parcel for a business, home subdivision or another purpose. Sometimes a sale is contingent on rezoning.

During the meeting, commissioners addressed the mother’s situation, saying they would meet with her after they adjourned. Commissioners said they recognized the pitfalls of freezing applications but it is necessary.

For more than a year now, Forsyth County has paused most new residen-

tial development in order to update its codes. The decision is in response to rapid population growth and development and concerns voiced by residents and the school district.

They also said state law forbids the pause from being permanent.

“It’s unfortunate families like you get caught in that,” Commission Chairman Alfred John said. “You cannot only see but hear the helplessness in her voice.”

Since 2010, Forsyth County has added about 105,000 residents, an increase of almost 66 percent. The county currently has a population of about 280,000.

The growth also has drawn concerns from the Forsyth County Schools.

In a 2025 proclamation, School Board members called for a reduction in high-density residential development, citing rising student enrollment.

School Board Chairman Mike Valdes said Forsyth County continues to add about 1,200 students a year, a trend that could force the school district to raise property taxes.

County staff have presented numerous proposals for changing the development code, including revisions that regulate trees, lot sizes, amenities, senior housing and design standards.

Commissioner Mendy Moore said she thinks the freeze and code revisions are necessary and supported by many residents. Residents have voiced concerns about strained school capacity and roadways.

At the meeting, resident Sandra Reitz spoke in favor of the freeze, thanking commissioners and praising them for a “job well done.”

Reitz said she has seen her community change drastically as development has become more common there. She said she was especially concerned with the effect that growth has had on the natural environment and resources like water and wildlife.

“I have seen forests clear cut and hills and valleys flattened in the name of growth and to build as many houses as possible on a parcel of land,” she said.

Reitz said she understands the pause cannot be permanent but asked commissioners to continue their work in addressing high-density development.

“People move to Forsyth County for many reasons, and one of them is the green space,” she said. “They move here because it feels just a little less hassled and a little more quiet. It’s a place where you can still hear the birdsong wake you up in the morning.”

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

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DIRECTOR (Part-Time) Alpharetta Presbyterian Church — Alpharetta, GA

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To apply: Submit a brief introduction and resume to jobs@alpharettapres.com.

Saturday May 16 and Sunday May 17 from 8:00am to 3:00pm

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