🌱 'Forever Chemicals' Found In Forsyth Co. Water + Development Debate

Good morning, neighbors! It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Patch newsletter. Come along to find out the most important things going on around town. Today you'll learn about...

• Forsyth Co. water tests positive for "forever chemicals"
• Development debate surrounding former Kennemore Nursery
• Forsyth Co. students above average test scores

But first, today's weather:

Plenty of sunshine. High: 84 Low: 63.

Here are the top five stories today in Cumming:

1. In Georgia, 11 out of 52 county water systems tested positive for concerning levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), with Forsyth and Union County being affected. PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are slow to degrade in the human body and accumulate in the bloodstream. Although the health effects of PFAS are uncertain, animal tests indicate potential impacts on reproduction, thyroid function, the immune system, and the liver. University researchers, including those from the University of Georgia, are working on methods to remove PFAS from local water systems, using filters, chemicals, and electric shock treatments. (Vanguard)
2. The former site of Kennemore Nursery, located off Mullinax Road and Union Hill Road, is the subject of a contentious debate regarding the type of development that should be built there. The Board of Commissioners has consistently rejected a proposed mixed-use development for the site. The controversial proposal continues to face challenges, but the specific reasons for its rejection by the Board of Commissioners have not been detailed. (Subscription: Forsyth County News)
3. Forsyth County students achieved impressive SAT scores in 2023. The data, released by the Georgia Department of Education, revealed that Forsyth County public school students significantly exceeded both state and national average SAT scores. The report also compares Forsyth County's SAT scores with those of other school districts in Georgia. (Subscription: Forsyth County News)
4. The Senior Talent Show hosted by Forsyth County Senior Services and Age Well Forsyth recently showcased the talents of individuals aged 50 and above. Multiple performances, including comedy, music, and dance, encouraged audience participation. The Grand Champions, a group called "Senior Moments," impressed the audience with a transformative dance performance challenging stereotypes about seniors' abilities. (Appen Media)
5. Meet Justin Thompson, an employee of Forsyth County Water & Sewer, who shared his positive experience working for the county, citing good benefits and excellent insurance as factors that contributed to his decision to continue his career there. Thompson expressed gratitude for the opportunities and stability provided by Forsyth County, emphasizing the importance of job satisfaction in his long-term commitment to the organization. Read more here. (Forsyth County Georgia Government via Facebook)

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Today in Cumming:

Saturday, September 30

• Cumming Farmers Market At Cumming City Center (8:00 AM)
• Manhattan Short Film Festival At Hampton Park Library (2:00 PM)
• Levi Ransom At The Collection At Forsyth (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Forsyth County 4-H wants to remind 4-12 graders about the upcoming election of County Council officers at October's Community Club meeting. For inquiries, individuals can contact Ms. Heather at [email protected]. (Forsyth County Georgia 4-H via Facebook)
• The Forsyth County Family YMCA Basketball Gym and Group Exercise studio will be closed from Oct. 2-13 for floor resurfacing. (Forsyth County Family YMCA via Facebook)
• Head over to NoFo Brew Co. on Oct. 6 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. to celebrate their four-year anniversary with a market. (NoFo Brew Co. via Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. I'll see you soon!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.