🌱 Former Forsyth Co. Cop Sentenced + Sewage Leak Up To 1,200 Gallons

Hi, Cumming! Like many of you, the Patch team will be taking some time off for Labor Day. I’ll be back in your inbox after the long weekend, but until then, here’s what’s happening in town., including news about...

• Former Forsyth County Sheriff Deputy facing sentencing
• Part of Ronald Reagan Boulevard extension in Forsyth County opens
• 1,200 gallons of sewage spill into creek

But first, your weekend weather:

• Saturday: Beautiful with periods of sun. High: 83 Low: 61.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny. High: 90 Low: 64.
• Monday: Warm with plenty of sun. High: 91 Low: 66.
• Tuesday: High clouds and warm. High: 91 Low: 65.

Here are the top five stories today in Cumming:

1. A former Forsyth County Sheriff's deputy is facing sentencing after being convicted on child exploitation charges. Grady Sanford was arrested in November 2020 by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) following a tip about the upload of child sexual abuse photos. The GBI traced the IP address to Sanford's home, leading to his arrest, and he was subsequently charged and convicted of 16 counts of sexual exploitation of children. (WSBTV)
2. The southern leg of the Ronald Reagan Boulevard extension in Forsyth County has opened one lane in each direction between McFarland Parkway and Shiloh Road. The Capital Projects Director, John Jefferson, has shared the latest updates on the progress of this four-mile-long project, which runs parallel to SR 400 - learn more at the link. (Forsyth County, GA)
3. On Aug. 31, Forsyth County reported a sewer spill near Cross Creek Drive in the Pinnacle Glen subdivision. The spill, estimated at around 1,200 gallons of sewage, entered Bagley Creek due to a blockage in the gravity sewer line caused by grease and rags buildup. The affected area has been cleaned and treated with lime, and the county is following EPD (Environmental Protection Division) guidelines to address the situation. (Forsyth County, GA)
4. The developer of the proposed $2 billion arena and entertainment district called the Gathering at South Forsyth has expressed a strong desire to attract an NHL (National Hockey League) team. They have hired a new executive with pro sports experience to help make this aspiration a reality. The project hopes to be prepared to accommodate an NHL team as part of its development plans. (Subscription: The Atlanta Journal Constitution)
5. The community is rallying behind 11-year-old Forsyth County soccer player Kian James, who is currently battling leukemia. Kian had been playing soccer in Sweden during the World Youth Cup when he unexpectedly collapsed on the field. Friends, family, and classmates are coming together to support him as he undergoes treatment, showcasing the strength of their solidarity during this challenging time. (Subscription: Forsyth County News)

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This weekend in Cumming:

Saturday, September 2

• Live Music With Brian Wiltsey At Cue Barbeque (6:00 PM)

Sunday, September 3

• Live Music With Jody Abernathy At Freedom Brew & Shine (5:00 PM)

Monday, September 4

• Trivia Night At Five Boroughs Pizza Tavern (7:30 PM)

Tuesday, September 5

• Live Music Bingo At The Black Diamond Grill (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Radon, an odorless and invisible radioactive gas, is the primary cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. To determine the radon level in your home, you can borrow a Radon Testing Kit from Forsyth County Public Library. Click the link to learn more. (Forsyth County Public Library via Facebook)
• If you're spending Labor Day Weekend in Cumming, there are exciting events to enjoy. You can catch the IPRA World Championship Rodeo at the Cumming Fairgrounds from tonight through Sunday, with start times at 8:00 p.m. (tonight) and 7:00 p.m. (Sunday), and gates opening two hours before each show. (City of Cumming, GA - City Hall via Facebook)
• National Preparedness Month has begun. Throughout the month of September, the agency will focus on various topics, including making a plan, building an emergency kit, staying informed, and considering preparations for family, pets, and football season. Click here to learn more. (Forsyth County Emergency Management Agency & 911 via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• 3hr Salsa Boot Camp Atlanta @ Ballroom Impact - Beginner / Beyond Basic (September 2)
• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Delighted Every Week (September 5)
• Introduction to Plein Air Painting - Sept 8 Workshop with Artist Mary Negron (September 8)
• Add your event

That's it for today! See you all next week for another update.

— 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.