Johns Creek Herald, January 16, 2014

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A first for students to stay home ►►PAGE 6

Star principal resigns Cites ‘poor decisions’ ►►PAGE 24

Ashley MVP in Chamber Bowl Chattahoochee player leads South squad in win ►►PAGE 14

January 16, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 3

Figueroa resigns effective Feb. 1 Councilman relocating to South Georgia JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek City Councilman Ivan Figueroa announced Jan. 9 he will resign his City Council Post 4 seat effective Feb. 1.

In a statement he said, “I wish to thank our citizens for allowing me to serve seven wonderful years as a City Council member in Johns Creek. My wife Karen and I have raised our daughters here, surrounded by wonderful friends and supported by the finest schools we could imagine.

“Johns Creek, and all it encompasses, will forever

hold a place in our hearts. We are relocating to South Georgia, closer to my sales territory in Georgia and FIGUEROA Florida. The move will allow me to be in both markets and spend less time on the road and more time at home with my family.”

See COUNCIL, Page 4

JC Council mulls 1 mil tax rollback Simone Bosch as Winnifred rehearses with the cast from "Once upon a Mattress."

JCHS to perform Broadway’s ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Classic musical based on ‘Princess and the Pea’ JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Once upon a time (1959), a fairy tale (“The Princess and the Pea”) came to life on Broadway and is still going strong.

Today, “Once upon a Mattress” remains a popular musical for audiences of all ages.

Now, “Mattress” has been chosen as the Johns Creek High School winter play. This fun, entertaining musical will be presented by the Johns Creek High School Performing Arts Department Jan. 30 to Feb. 1.

1

Best remembered as the vehicle that launched the career of an unknown actress named Carol Burnett, it was created

by Mary Rodgers, the daughter of legendary composer Richard Rodgers.

“We chose ‘Once upon a Mattress’ this year for several

See JCHS, Page 24 FREE Classic Beverage Packages* for two, includes wine and spirits

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Raffensperger urges reduction made up with windfall sales tax

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, GA. – City Councilmen Brad Raffensperger and Ivan Figueroa started the New Year with a call to reduce the city millage rate by 1 mill. Fellow councilmembers said they were willing to study the proposal, but wanted see what effect such a move would have on the city’s budget.

Raffensperger cited the $1.85 million windfall the city will experience beginning in 2014 from additional sales

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“I believe it is time to reduce the millage rate. The reserve fund is flush, and

See TAX, Page 9

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2 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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ROSWELL, Ga. – Mark Mason Alexander, aka Musa Mahmood Ahmed, 53, of Roswell, was sentenced to 18 months in prison Jan. 6, for conspiring to send machines to Iran in violation of the United States trade embargo.

Alexander was found guilty of conspiring with two Iranian businessmen to sell Hydrajet water-jet cutting systems to customers in Iran between October 2006 and June 2008.

Hydrajet Technology, located in Dalton, Ga., manufactured the water-jet cutting systems, which were used for the precision cutting of materials such

DUIS & DRUGS 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.

DUI arrests ►► David Ronald Camp, 28, of

Dunwoody was arrested Dec. 26 on East Crossville Road

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.

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MILTON, Ga. – A Milton resident discovered two Walmart gift cards were used by someone in New Jersey, Dec. 31.

The victim told police he received two online gift cards, each for $100, on Dec. 15 as part of a store promotion. He used one of them Dec. 29 to buy a $35 item. Two days later, he checked the balance and found both were completely used at a store in Secaucus, N.J.

as aluminum, glass, granite and steel. These machines were distributed to customers in the Middle East through Hydrajet Mena, another company that Alexander partly owned, which was located in the United Arab Emirates and for which Alexander worked as the chief executive officer.

In 2007, as part of the conspiracy, Alexander negotiated the sale of two water-jet cutting systems to companies located in the Islamic Republic of Iran. In July 2007, after Alexander negotiated the terms of these sales and before the machines were shipped to Iran,

the Department of Commerce warned Alexander of the trade restrictions with Iran.

He concealed the true destination of these machines by causing them to be transshipped to Iran via Alexander’s company in the United Arab Emirates.

Alexander additionally instructed Hydrajet Mena employees to travel to Iran to install the machines and to conduct software training for the Iranians who would operate them.

“The United States will continue to vigorously pursue and bring to justice those who

evade our economic sanctions,” said U.S. Attorney Sally Quillian Yates.

“The trade embargo against the Islamic Republic of Iran is not limited to those who specifically seek to supply the country with military items or with items for use in its nuclear weapon proliferation program.

Rather, businesses and individuals who engage in commercial transactions with businesses and individuals in the Islamic Republic of Iran are cautioned that they are still subject to prosecution under existing sanctions.”

in Roswell for DUI, reckless driving and driving without a license on his person. ►► Kenneth J. Down, 55, of Woodstock was arrested Dec. 27 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane and open container. ►► Kimberly J. Carter, 49, of Bellflower Court, Roswell, was arrested Dec. 28 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for

DUI, following too closely and possession of marijuana. ►► Laura Anne Beisel, 29, of Waverly Hall Drive, Roswell, was arrested Dec. 29 on Bowen Road in Roswell for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Clayton Finley Massa, 18, of Ansher Court, Roswell, was arrested Dec. 31 on Inwood Terrace in Roswell for DUI, underage possession of alcohol and failure to maintain lane.

►► Erica Danielle Vanhook,

pizza he ordered Jan. 3 because “he was hungry and he wanted something hot to eat.”

According to police, a pizza delivery driver called 911 after he delivered pizza, wings and cheese dressing to a home on Kentworth Lane. The person who ordered the food, Damon G. McAllister, 33, of Kentworth Lane, Milton, allegedly took the food and refused to pay, arguing he paid for it using a credit card. He shut the door and would not open it again, despite the delivery man’s protests. Police arrived and arrested McAllister for theft.

Dec. 29.

While doing a routine check of the Studio Six apartments on Old Dogwood Road at 4 a.m., police came across a Lexus parked in the middle of the road with no occupants.

A search of the car allegedly turned up some crystal meth and a glass pipe. Police found the owner nearby, Hunter Davies Johnson, 30, of Oak Knoll Way, Roswell, and arrested him for possession of methamphetamine and drug-related paraphernalia.

$2K in underwear taken from store ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Lithonia woman was arrested Jan. 4 for allegedly shoplifting more than $2,000 worth of underwear.

Police were called to the Macy’s at North Point Mall after employees said they saw Jaquelyn Jones Thom, 60, of Lithonia, fill an empty store bag with more than 100 items of women’s underwear, worth $2,283. She then allegedly attempted to leave the store without paying for the items.

She was arrested on felony shoplifting.

Man steals pizza, wings MILTON, Ga. – A man stole

Meth found in abandoned car ROSWELL, Ga. – A Roswell man’s unattended car landed him in jail on drug charges

23, of Norcross was arrested Dec. 25 on Francis Road in Milton for DUI and failure to maintain lane.

Drug arrests ►► Quran Raazia Williams, 24,

of Passiac, N.J., was arrested Dec. 28 on Ga. 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana and an outstanding warrant.

Weapons taken along with truck ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A truck containing hunting gear, including at least four rifles and

See BLOTTER, Page 3

PUBLIC SAFETY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 3

Atlanta group possibly linked to metro thefts

Blotter:

Four cars broken into at skate park

Continued from Page 2

CUMMING, Ga. — A thief broke into about four cars parked at Fowler Park and stole purses and valuables, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report.

Between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Jan. 1, a woman told deputies she parked her 2009 Honda Fit in the Fowler Park Skate Park, 4110 Carolene Way, and walked on the Big Creek Greenway. When she returned to her car, she found her passenger side rear window shattered.

Her $100 purse and $140 in cash were missing. Another woman said she parked her 2013 Hyundai Elantra at the park and also went for a walk on the Big Creek Greenway.

When she returned, she also found her rear passenger window shattered. The only

several knives, was reported stolen from North Point Mall Dec. 26.

The victim told police he parked the truck near the Macy’s entrance and shopped in the mall for an hour. When he returned, the truck was nowhere to be found.

It is described as a black and tan 2007 Ford F-150 with a stainless steel front plate bearing a “G.” The truck had a hard cover on the rear.

Inside the rear of the truck was hunting gear, including several hunting knives and four hunting rifles – a Browning 243, a Remington 700 3006, a Winchester 270 shortmag and a Browning 270.

thing she said was missing was a white bag that contained recycled bags. Two other women said their unlocked parked cars had items taken.

One woman was missing a $50 purse, which contained a $15 wallet and $40 in cash. The other woman said she realized when she got home that her $1,200 purse and $200 iPhone were taken. “We have increased our patrols,” said Forsyth County Deputy Doug Rainwater. “The problem is that this crime takes under 20 seconds to commit.” The sheriff’s office urges people to keep their valuables out of sight.

Thief steals $67K from car CUMMING, Ga. — Someone broke into a car and made out with about $67,190 in valu-

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ables, according to a Cumming Police incident report. At about 6 p.m. Dec. 23, officers were dispatched to Los Rios, 580 Atlanta Road, because someone broke into a man’s 2012 Cadillac Escalade.

The rear window was shattered and a duffel bag, briefcase and the vehicle owner’s manual were missing. The man said the duffel bag contained two watches totaling $65,000, $200 headphones, $200 sunglasses and two Rolls Royce

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keys valued at $500 a piece.

The $200 briefcase contained his diabetic bag with his insulin needles, blood monitors and various medications totaling $600.

The man said he saw a white sport utility vehicle pull up next to his Escalade while he was inside the restaurant, but he was unable to give the make or model of the car.

Officers saw blood on the shattered window and collected samples for evidence.

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each “shopping” with individual bags in which they would place the goods they wanted to steal.

They would then place the bags near an exit and wait for a car to be pulled around. Police suspect the group hit the

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ROSWELL, Ga. – Roswell Police arrested four people Dec. 28 on several counts of felony shoplifting after they allegedly tried to steal dozens of goods from the Crossville Road Kohl’s.

Reports say the group would enter the store and separate,

Roswell store several times and may be responsible for thefts in other metro Atlanta stores.

On Dec. 28, the group allegedly had 41 bags filled with stolen goods.

Parris Dominique Royster, April Nicole Cosby, Kwintha Holden and Gregory Renard Lewis, all of Atlanta, were each charged with felony shoplifting.

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4 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

N. Fulton has lowest jobless rate Far below metro average

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – All North Fulton cities have some of the lowest unemployment rates in the metropolitan area, according to numbers released by the Georgia Department of Labor for November.

Alpharetta and Roswell both came in at 5.2 percent, with Johns Creek at 5.7 percent for November.

Alpharetta is down from 5.8 percent in October, and Roswell was 5.9 percent for the same time.

Johns Creek fell dramatically from 6.5 percent in October to 5.7 percent in November.

There are no numbers available for Milton.

Atlanta’s numbers for November were 9.1 percent.

Fulton County has an unemployment rate of 7.8 percent, down from a high of 9.7

Council: Continued from Page 1 Figueroa was an original member of the Johns Creek City Council and has seen the city through all of its highs and lows. That council has maintained the lowest tax rate in metro Atlanta. The city has seen growth and prosperity despite the recession.

On Figueroa’s watch, numerous accolades have accrued to Johns Creek. The city has been named one of the safest cities to live in; the best city in Georgia to find a job; and it boasts the state’s highest per household income, to name just some of them.

Figueroa was also party to the recently concluded mayoral probe. Although Mayor Mike Bodker was eventually vindicated at the polls, Figueroa

We were last to go into the recession and first to come out.”

DAVID BELLE ISLE Alpharetta Mayor

November Unemployment Rates in North Fulton cities*

Alpharetta Atlanta Johns Creek Roswell *Milton is not listed

5.2 percent 9.1 percent 5.7 percent 5.2 percent

Georgia’s rate is 7.3 percent. The national rate is 6.6 percent. percent in June 2012. Neighboring Forsyth County is at 5.3 in November, down from a high of 6.9 in June 2012.

The state of Georgia has a November unemployment rate of 7.3 percent. The nation has a rate of 6.6 percent.

Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle chalked the news up to his city’s strong economy.

“We’ve got a great employment situation here,” said Belle Isle. “Technology is a thriving area now. On top of that, Georgia is bouncing back.

These two are making the area good. We were last to go into along with Councilman Brad Raffensperger tried to keep the investigation going, promising new revelations.

But the new City Council had had enough and voted to end it.

Nevertheless, Figueroa looked back on his public service with pride of his accomplishments as a member of the City Council.

“Since taking office in 2006, my fellow councilmembers and I worked diligently to accomplish much in the service of the citizens and businesses of Johns Creek,” he said.

“Our fire and police departments are recognized across the state and the nation for their superior capabilities, demonstrating our commitment to the promise of improved public safety that was such an important part of our drive of cityhood,” Figueroa

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the recession and first to come out.”

The Labor Department claimed the overall decline was due to the number of jobs increasing, and the numbers of unemployment insurance claims were down.

Metro Atlanta employers added 14,300 jobs in November, increasing the number of jobs to 2,447,600, up by 0.6 percent from 2,433,300 in October.

Most of the new jobs were added in trade, transporta-

tion and warehousing, 8,600; government, 2,000; leisure and hospitality, 1,800; education and health care, 1,200; and information services and construction, 800 each.

Over the year, jobs were up by 59,200, or 2.5 percent, from 2,388,400 in November 2012.

The metro Athens area had the lowest area jobless rate at 5.1 percent, while the Heart of Georgia-Altamaha region had the highest at 10 percent.

No numbers are seasonally adjusted.

I step down knowing that city finances are in order and proud that I was able to co-sponsor a request that City Council consider a tax rate reduction of 1 mill ... paid for, in part, by expected new Local Option Sales Tax revenue.”

IVAN FIGUEROA Former Johns Creek City Councilman

said.

He noted council established guidelines for future community growth, as evidenced in the city’s Comprehensive Plan. A frugal City Council, while working closely with staff to implement conservative budgets, was able to invest heavily in infrastructure, one of the highest priorities demanded by its citizens. “We have improved traffic flow and safety by reconfiguring roads and installing intelligent traffic systems,” Figueroa said.

He said council has improved the quality of life in Johns Creek by installing sidewalks, improving sports fields and facilities and creating community events that helped contribute to civic pride in the community.

Another highlight will be the new pavilion at Newtown Park that will seat 800, which was designed with outdoor performances in mind.

“I step down knowing that

city finances are in order and proud that I was able to cosponsor a request that City Council consider a tax rate reduction of 1 mill — about 20 percent, paid for, in part, by expected new Local Option Sales Tax revenue,” he said.

Bodker declined to comment on Figueroa’s resignation. But he did note his hard work and participation in shaping the city’s foundations as one of the original members of the council.

“Councilman Figueroa was part of the team that laid the foundation for our city. He has a long impressive list of accomplishments,” Bodker said.

“His years of service, both on council and for many years prior in both our schools and organizations have had positive and enduring impact on Johns Creek.”

He said he joins the council and citizens in wishing future success to Figueroa and his family.

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 5

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6 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

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Record-breaking temperatures keep students home from school First time school is canceled because of cold

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – The frigid the first week of January tacked an extra day onto the long winter break for Fulton County School System students, as single-digit tempera-

tures made normal operations too difficult and potentially dangerous for students and staff.

Fulton Schools officials could not recall ever closing schools based on temperature alone, but made the decision based on factors including bus operations, heating schools and keeping kids safe at bus stops.

“This is the first time in memory where extreme temperatures played a part in cancelling school,” said Fulton Schools spokeswman Susan Hale. “[But] what most people don’t know is that it’s more complicated than just being too cold for students to be outside, although that is certainly considered.”

In a system of 100 schools, 93,000 students, 14,000 employees and 800 buses, there are operational issues to consider, she said.

“Most of our buses run on diesel, and in extreme low temperatures, diesel fuel behaves more like a gel than a liquid, making it more difficult to get the buses started and running properly,” said Hale.

Adding to the situation

was the fact that the buses sat idle for more than two weeks during the winter break, which began Dec. 20, 2013.

While some parents took to social media to grumble about another day home with cabin feverish kids, most parents welcomed the day off, said Hale. She said the system’s Facebook page had 245 “likes” after the announcement of the closing.

“That’s a record for us – most of our status updates get only a few likes,” laughed Hale.

She also gave kudos to the facilities staff that worked night and day to make sure everything was up and running when the kids returned on Jan. 8 “Our custodians made sure buildings would be ready. Our maintenance team was quick to troubleshoot any potential issue, and our [transportation team] literally worked around the clock for the past week to make sure buses would start and be warm for students,” said Hale.

Weather days are built into the school calendar, and the Jan. 7 cancellation will not have to be made up.

NEWS

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 7

Roswell passes controversial UDC zoning Controversial code reworks city building rules

By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Roswell’s Unified Development Code (UDC) is moving forward after the City Council approved the first presentation of the code at their Jan. 13 meeting in a 4-2 vote.

The city has worked on updating its aging zoning code for more than a year.

The UDC aims to simplify zoning codes so both developers and residents know what is expected of them. Roswell made the decision to update its zoning, which had been cobbled together over 40 years and multiple annexations of new land.

“We have overly burdensome, confusing and sometimes prohibitive zoning ordinances,” said Roswell

Community Development Director Alice Wakefield. “[The zoning code] clearly tells you what you can’t do, but not a lot about what you can do.”

Wakefield said the goal of the code is to unify all of the development regulations to address contemporary trends and practices that are easily understandable by developers, citizens and staff.

And for the past 18 months, the city has done just that.

“This is an attempt to provide people with the majority of the information as simply as possible,” said Lee Einseiler of Code Studios, the consultants who helped the city with the new code. “There are lots of pictures and diagrams and simple terminology.”

The idea is, instead of saying what cannot be built, focus on what is possible and what that should look like.

Detractors say the process has moved too quickly and not enough time has been given to review for errors or im-

pacts. The city’s zoning maps are changing, being compiled into one, which can lead to problems and oversights. At least one property at Monday’s meeting was improperly zoned on the new map.

Former candidate for council Eric Schumacher questioned why he should be able to build a detached garage on his property now, but under the UDC, he would not be. He argued that, despite city assurances, he and other landowners would be restricted on what he could use his land for under UDC rules.

“I want to be sure I can do the same with my property under the UDC as I can today,” Schumacher said.

Mayor Jere Wood said some changes were necessary.

“Why am I passing this if it has no effect? It will have an effect,” Wood said. “It will make things simpler and clearer.”

The motion was made for approval of the new code, and it passed in a 4-2 vote, with Councilmembers Betty Price

and Kent Igleheart opposed.

“I think we’ve made a lot of progress over the last month and made some good adjustments,” said Councilmember Rich Dippolito, who voted for the item. “It’s in good shape, but there are still a few issues we need to discuss.”

In the next few weeks, the

council will hold work sessions to hammer out changes and updates with a final approval and adoption of the UDC to be Feb. 10.

The city’s website has a special page for the UDC. Go to www.roswellgov.com/udc for maps, to ask questions and find more information.

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JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Johns Creek community is invited to learn about proposed improvements on Abbotts Bridge Road at a public information open house Jan. 30 at Ocee Library.

Planned improvements for Abbotts Bridge include adding a center turn lane, bikeable shoulders and enhanced sidewalks on the north side of the road from Abbotts Hill Elementary School to Ocee Library. The project will run between Jones Bridge and Parsons roads west of Medlock Bridge Road.

Construction of the project is set to start in 2015.

Johns Creek Public Works Department staff members will be on-hand to explain displays, discuss the improvements and answer questions during the open house, scheduled for 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

For information, call 678-512-3200.

If you go What: Abbotts Bridge Improvement Plan Open House When: Jan. 30, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road

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NEWS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 9

Tax: windfall would not cover rollback cost Continued from Page 1 we have $1.85 million [additional] funds for the next 10 years,” Raffensperger said. “A 1 mill reduction would be huge for property owners. It would mean a lot to those who are still hurting.”

He said it would also give the newly funded public-private partnership for economic development, Johns Creek Advantage, a “shot in the arm” in recruiting new businesses to the city and as an added incentive to retaining existing businesses here in the city.

Raffensperger pointed to a 49 percent vacancy in Technology Park.

“We don’t need the money,” he said.

Figueroa seconded the motion to reduce the millage. But other members of council said such a move would be rash without examining the effect it would have on the budget.

“No one on council, including Raffensperger, could say what the value of 1 mill is, but it turns out to be $3.6 million, nearly double the “windfall” tax revenue. That means finding $1.75 million to cut in the budget even with the increased sales tax dollars.

“We’re trading double the amount we’re getting back. We have bigger concerns. People do want roads repaired. I was thinking we could use this $1.85 million to work on the $40 million shortfall we have in bringing our roads up to standards,” Bodker said.

The rollback on the millage would mean cuts in the budget that could have the effect of slowing down the repaving plan for subdivisions. Even if the city voted for revenue bonds to hasten the paving, the city would still have to pay the debt service.

Figueroa said as a councilman, he had always “been about infrastructure.”

“It rolls out a beautiful red carpet for a unique place.

And it sends a good message that Johns Creek is moving forward. Getting these roads paved was one of the reasons for cityhood,” Figueroa said.

Figueroa said he wants to do both, roll back the millage rate and do additional road work.

Bodker said such a policy would have to delay road work, and the longer the delays the more quickly streets deteriorate.

“In the long run it will cost us much more to get the work done,” Bodker said.

Raffensperger wanted the rollback now.

“If not now, when? There will always be another project,”

I believe it is time to reduce the millage rate.

The reserve fund is flush, and we have $1.85 million [additional] funds for the next 10 years. A 1 mill reduction would be huge for property owners. It would mean a lot to those who are still hurting.”

BRAD RAFFENSPERGER Councilman

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I am always looking to cut expenses. But before I can vote on this, I would want to know if our citizens would rather have a reduction or pave more streets.”

KELLY STEWART Councilwoman

Raffensperger said. “I’m sure we could do a little belt-tightening.”

Stewart said the matter needed more study.

“This seems hurried to me,” she said.

Councilman Lenny Zaprowski agreed.

“I will have to go through the numbers and see the impact on the budget. I need to see more on this,” he said.

The motion failed 4-2 with Raffensperger and Figueroa in the minority.

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10 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

Fourth-grade teacher Candace Bell helps Sydney Eyerly, Clay Brewer, Matthew Johnson and James Godfrey make their own candles at Dolvin’s Colonial Day celebration.

Dolvin students step back in time Fourth-graders celebrate Colonial Day NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Fourth-grade students took a trip back in history to celebrate Colonial Day at Dolvin Elementary School.

The day was filled with many hands-on activities. Instead of playing video games or researching schoolwork online, colonial children filled their days with simpler games and pursuits. Snapshots and cameras hadn’t been invented yet, so Dolvin

students learned to make silhouettes of themselves.

Others worked to create candles, quilts, bonnets and tri-corner hats.

Taking a break from all of that work, the fourth-graders played colonial games like jacks and marbles and even created their own dolls.

Colonial Day gave Dolvin’s students a true glimpse into the lives of colonial children.

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 11

$45K SADD grant to keep Fulton student drivers safer NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Seven North Fulton high schools will share in a $45,000 grant from the Georgia Office of Highway Safety to help establish programs aimed at keeping teen drivers safe on the roads.

“Car crashes remain the No. 1 cause of death for teens, and drivers ages 15-19 have a higher rate of crashes, injuries and fatalities than adult and elderly drivers.

In fact last year, car crashes took the lives of 156 teen drivers [in Georgia],” said Susan Hale, Fulton Schools spokesperson.

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received the $45,000 SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) grant from the state to help lower these sobering statistics, said Hale.

In North Fulton, funds will be provided to Alpharetta, Cambridge, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Johns Creek, Northview and Roswell high schools. In all, 13 high schools in the Fulton School System will receive funds this school year. The funds will be used to mitigate drinking and driving among teens through a variety of programs, including establishing or maintaining a SADD chapter, conducting at

least two safety belt checks, providing leadership training to SADD chapter members, supporting impaired driving prevention activities and hosting Safe Prom or Safe Graduation activities.

High schools will participate in these programs, as well as observe monthly programs including Alcohol Education Month (November), Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month (December), Parenting is Prevention Month (March), Alcohol Awareness Month (April) and Worldwide “No Tobacco” Day (May 31).

—Candy Waylock

12 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

Perimeter Church’s newest Eagle Scouts are from left: Leland Grass, Preston Krah, Nathaniel Davis, Joshua Gautier and Lane Mitchell.

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MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Boy Scout District, which covers the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review Dec. 4.

Leland Grass, Preston Krah, Nathaniel Davis, Joshua Gautier and Lane Mitchell passed their Eagle Scout Board of Review.

All five of these Scouts are from Troop 317, which is sponsored by Perimeter Church.

Leland Grass’s project was the design and construction of an enclosed octagon wooden structure for the purpose of playing the game Ga-Ga at Camp All-America at Perimeter Church. He also constructed a metal instruction board listing the rules to play the game.

Preston Krah’s project was the design and construction of an 8-foot pergola with a swing for Camp All-America at Perimeter Church.

Nathaniel Davis’s project was the design and construction of a three-sided wooden shelter for a herd of horses at Save the Horses Rescue Center.

Joshua Gautier’s project was the design of a collection of food items for the North Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry. Although his goal was 1,000 food items, he surpassed it and collected 1,100 food items.

Lane Mitchell’s project was the demolition, redesign and construction of a nature trail for Camp All-America at Perimeter Church.

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 13

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From left are Ryan Simkoff, Tristan Kaisharis, Ian Affeldt, Shubham Kadam and Darius Chinoy who passed their Eagle Scout Board of Review.

Johns Creek, Roswell Scouts attain Eagle rank MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, announced Dec. 4 its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review.

Ryan Simkoff of Troop 3143 was sponsored

by Johns Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the removal of old bookshelves and replacing them with four new bookshelves that he designed and built for the North Fulton Community Charities.

Tristan Kaisharis of Troop 841 was sponsored by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.

His project was refurbishment and replacement of the bleachers and dugout benches for baseball field No. 5 at Roswell Area Park.

Ian Affeldt of Troop 985 was sponsored

by Northbrook United Methodist Church. His project was the design and construction of a water supply system to the existing fire ring for Roswell United Methodist Church. He also constructed a wood yard for safe wood storage for the fire ring.

Shubham Kadam of Troop 3143 was sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church.

His project was the design and construction of 12 clothing racks for the Drake House Thrift Shop.

Darius Chinoy of Troop 10 was sponsored

by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of three picnic tables for Northview High School, creating a lunch area for teachers.

—McKenzie Cunningham

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14 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SPORTS

JANUARY

Chattahoochee’s Kieron Ashley, center, won Most Outstanding Offensive Player as well as Most Valuable Player at the Chamber Bowl all-star game Dec. 21, 2013. He was presented the awards by Eric Douglas, left, with the North FultonForsyth Touchdown Club, and Michael Haynes, a former Atlanta Falcon.

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JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Chattahoochee High School’s Kieron Ashley competed Dec. 21, 2013, in the North Fulton-Forsyth Touchdown Club’s Chamber Bowl all-star game, played at Ridgewood High School in Sandy Springs, and took home two of the most prestigious awards.

Ashley, playing on the South team, helped lead his team to a 19-10 victory

over the North squad. For his efforts in the game, he was voted Most Outstanding Offensive Player and also received the award for Most Valuable Player.

Teams from the North Fulton and Forsyth County areas are divided into North and South divisions for the Chamber Bowl, with top seniors from those schools competing in one last high school football game.

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Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

CHS’s Corrigan to play lacrosse at Lenoir-Rhyne JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Chattahoochee High School’s Ben Corrigan has signed a national letter of intent to play lacrosse for Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, N.C. Lenoir-Rhyne is a member of the NCAA Division II South Atlantic Conference.

Corrigan has been a midfield starter and face-off specialist on Chattahoochee’s varsity team since he was a freshman and has earned three varsity letters.

During the 2012 season, he was named to the Georgia All-Star team and also earned GHSA All-State Honorable Mention. Selected for the Brine All-American Classic team in 2012, Corrigan was a two-time

all-star at the 2012 and 2013 Southern Select Camps, once as a midfielder and once as a face-off specialist.

He has served as a Cougar2-Cougar mentor for the Jr. Cougar lacrosse program and has coached a Jr. Cougar team for the past four years. He is also the president of Chattahoochee’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

Corrigan, who was also considering offers from Mt. Olive, Methodist, Lynn University, Mars Hill, Emmanuel and Tusculum, has played on the elite LB3 lacrosse teams for the past five years. He has played for Liam Banks, Neal Solomon, Jeff Wilkes, John Zulberti and Steve Ianzito.

SPORTS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 15

Chattahoochee’s Ben Corrigan signs a national letter of intent to play lacrosse for Lenoir-Rhyne University. Seated with him are his parents, Denise and Tim Corrigan. Standing, from left, are CHS Athletic Director Milo Mathis Jr., 2010-2012 CHS head lacrosse coach Ryne Linsley, brother Jack Corrigan, CHS head lacrosse coach Michael Sopko, coach Neal Solomon, CHS assistant varsity coach Kevin Fabianski and CHS Principal Tim Duncan.

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16 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Sponsored by

It was a play on the family name, and it said our company goal — to render a service to our customers.

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Family-owned business into third generation Roswell’s Render Ad Service celebrates 40th anniversary

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – In 1974, Bill Redner and his wife Betty sat down in their kitchen to start a new advertising business.

Forty years and three generations later, Render Ad Service not only survives — it thrives.

Render Ad deals in promotional products and has a catalog of 1 million items that can bear a client’s logo, website and contact number.

From Madison Avenue to the local newspaper, the essence of all advertising is to keep clients in the public’s consciousness.

One of the best ways is to put a logo on coffee cups, apparel, hats, plaques, trophies, calendars – the list is endless.

Render provides these as well as other services.

On the website, Render Ad has what it calls its Idea Center that gives customers ideas on what can work best for them to put their name in front of customers and keep it there. And while Render Ad began in 1974, that wasn’t the beginning of its story.

“My dad was the regional vice president of the company he worked for, but it was bought out by a bigger company, and he had decided he did not like the direction it was going in,” said his son Ron Redner, who is the chief execu-

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

The Redners, staff and family gather at Bulloch Hall for a celebration of Render Ad Service’s 40th anniversary. The advertising company has been one of Roswell’s most successful family businesses. tive officer today.

So literally in his kitchen, the elder Redner plotted the future of the Redner family.

“My mom loved to do crossword puzzles, and she came up the name for the company, Render,” he said. “It was a play on the family name, and it said our company goal — to render a service to our customers.”

In those early days, calendars were a big part of the business. Salesmen sold the order and got their commission. But the calendars sold all year would only be paid for on delivery, usually in December.

“Dad had enough savings and was able to get a loan from the old Roswell Bank. That was paid off in the second year,” Redner said.

While the elder Redner started his company in 1974, he began working in advertising in 1946. So he was able to take many loyal customers when he started his new company. He also brought along loyal sales people as well. This includes Bob Fitzgerald, who became vice president of the company.

When Bill Redner retired in 1996, son Robert took over as CEO. In 2006, he retired, and son Ron became CEO. Grandson Troy Redner, Robert’s son, took up the vice president position when Fitzgerald retired.

“Our brother Rick didn’t stay with the company. But all my brothers and sisters went through that gate before going on to other careers,” he said.

Now, the third generation is stepping up ready to keep Render Ad going forward.

Render Ad is about ideas as much as about products.

Ron Redner won a national award for designing a campaign to introduce Ted Turner’s Cartoon Network to cable execs. His first idea was a polyester barrel gym bag with each end having a film reel to maintain the shape and filled with cartoon characters and other related items.

Turner rejected that idea because his then-wife Jane Fonda wanted something more eco-friendly.

So Redner came up with the idea incorporating the Road Runner cartoon character of Wile E. Coyote. He would

Render Ad Service 111 Hill Street, Roswell, Ga. 770-998-1217 www.RenderAd.com exchange the polyester bag for a wooden box stamped with the iconic “Acme Co.” logo that contained so many of Coyote’s ill-fated gadgets.

The box filled with 100 percent cotton T-shirts and other goodies inside received Fonda’s OK and won Redner his award.

Looking to the future, Redner is banking on their Web store acting as the drop-ship point of contact. That allows for just-in-time inventory and fast delivery.

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@northfulton.com

REAL ESTATE »

Terry Cooksey sells $2.5M estate CUMMING, Ga. — Harry Norman, Realtors Forsyth/Lake Lanier office announced that Terry Cooksey had his largest real estate sale to date at $2.5 million.

Cooksey, with the Cooksey Team at Harry Norman, sold an equestrian estate on Lake Lanier after having the property listed for six months. The property, on Old Wilkie COOKSEY Road, was listed at $2.5 million.

The Old Wilkie Road property had been listed with another agency at the same price for two years before Cooksey was asked to list the property.

When asked what was the biggest factor in getting this property sold, Cooksey said, “Effort. I put more effort into getting this home sold quickly. Plus, the marketing that Harry Norman provides is outstanding. There’s no way this home wouldn’t sell.”

The Cooksey Team can be reached at 770-4972000, or visit www.TheCookseyTeam.HarryNorman. com

Pam Abernathy joins Harry Norman in Johns Creek JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Harry Norman Realtors Johns Creek office added Pam Abernathy to its staff.

Abernathy has about 20 years of successful real estate sales experience, having earned her Broker’s Designation, Accredited Relocation Specialist designation and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Atlanta Board of Realtors.

ABERNATHY Abernathy can be reached at 404-863-7724. Email her at pam.abernathy@harrynorman.com or visit www.pamabernathy.harrynorman.com.

Harry Norman Forsyth Realtor receives new designation CUMMING, Ga. — Garel Curry, a Harry Norman Forsyth realtor, completed his Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) designation.

To achieve this designation, a realtor must complete six hours of class specializing in working directly with buyer-clients.

The course provides ongoing specialized information, programs CURRY and updates that help an agent stay informed on the issues and trends in successfully representing home buyers and gives an agent ac-

BusinessBriefs

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 17

cess to marketing tools and resources.

Curry can be reached at 770-497-2000, by email at garel.curry@harrynorman.com or by visiting www.garel.curry.harrynorman.com.

DDR Redevelopment completes plaza renovations ROSWELL, Ga. — DDR Redevelopment announced the completion of a $12 million project at Sandy Plains Village, located at 4651 Woodstock Road in Roswell.

This redevelopment included the backfilling of space formerly occupied by a traditional grocer, with a 60,000-square-foot Walmart Neighborhood Market.

The company announced the redevelopment improved the leased rate from 20 percent to 90 percent.

The project also included the consolidation of three small shop units and an expiring mass-merchandise tenant to accommodate a new 45,000-square-foot Movie Tavern, a growing cinema format that offers in-theater dining and that caters to adults and families.

The state-of-the-art facility features stadium seating in 11 auditoriums and offers first-run movies combined with a casual dining experience.

“We are very excited to be part of the newly redeveloped Sandy Plains Village,” said John Hersker, president and chief executive officer of Movie Tavern.

“This will be our third location in the Atlanta market, and our first to feature a large format Movie Tavern Xtreme auditorium.

We are committed to providing the community with a first-class cinema and dining experience.”

NEW BUSINESS »

Autumn Concierge Services opens in North Fulton ROSWELL, Ga. – Valerie Rufo and Victoria Adelsky recently launched Autumn Concierge Services, a business focused on assisting aging seniors in Roswell, Alpharetta and surrounding communities.

Autumn Concierge staff provides an opportunity for seniors to re-engage through companionship, accompaniment to social opportunities like lunch or dinner, a trip to the theater or a gallery opening.

“There are so many seniors in our area who are lonely and unable to enjoy life fully,” Rufo said.

“Services offered by the county and other providers just don’t meet their needs or expectations.”

With about 25 years of experience in care management, health care and business ownership, Rufo and Adelsky say their staff is trained to provide quality services.

Visit www.autumnconcierge.com or call 404725-0086 for more information.

RIBBON CUTTING »

NEW HIRES »

Spa Sydell names chief medical officer ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Spa Sydell welcomed a new executive chief medical officer.

Dr. Tara Margarella brings an accomplished medical background to the Sydell Luxe team.

With extensive training in the field of aesthetic and cosmetic surgery, Margarella has also been featured on the “Dr. Oz Show” and MARGARELLA other national television programs.

At Spa Sydell, she will oversee Sydell Luxe services including Botox, Juvederm XC, Radiesse and Venus Concept Freeze.

Spa Sydell has several locations including Cumming, Alpharetta, Roswell Corners, Buckhead Plaza and Forum at Peachtree Parkway.

For more information, visit www.spasydell.com or call 404-255-7727.

Dr. Robin Andrews and his wife Evelyn cut the ribbon for their new audiology practice, Doctor’s Hearing Center, located on State Bridge Road.

Doctor’s Hearing Center cuts ribbon to new practice JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Dr. Robin Andrews and his wife Evelyn held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new practice in Johns Creek on Jan. 3.

The Doctor’s Hearing Center brings Andrews’ audiology expertise to those in need of hearing aids and hearing rehabilitation.

The center is located at 11180 State Bridge Road, Suite 207, and can be contacted at 770-6767208.

18 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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Growing your small business North Fulton home sales end year on strong note It’s a new year, but the No. 1 one priority for small businesses is still the same.

Growing revenue is still at the top of the list for the majority of small business owners. So what are you doing to ensure that you achieve your growth goals? Have you evaluated different options you can utilize to generate more business?

Now is the time to plan, document and execute new revenue generating initiatives!

A good starting point is to focus on your existing customers. What are your plans to retain them and expand the amount of business they do with you? Do you have new products or services you could offer? Getting existing customers to buy more than they did last year will provide some great impetus to revenue growth.

What about new customers? How are you attracting new customers to your business? What are your marketing plans? Have you scheduled events or meetings to build

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

relationships with potential customers? Attracting new business is also essential to revenue growth.

What are you doing to make your sales process more effective and efficient? Closing business faster, selling larger transactions and beating the competition more often will help you reach your sales goals quicker.

Ensuring that your sales team has well-defined goals and fully understands your growth strategy is also very important.

While small business owners have a lot of challenges on their mind, achieving revenue growth continues to be a top priority for the new year.

It is that time of year where we tend to look forward, making predictions on what will happen in the coming months.

It’s also valuable to look back at this time to see where we have been and how things have improved – or in the case of years past, how things have declined.

There is no surprise here that real estate values in our area have improved, but the amount of improvement is very encouraging.

Comparing home sales data for the fourth quarter of 2013 to 2012, you can see the number of sales was basically

price was up 8 percent from one year ago.

When you have sales prices rise at a higher rate than asking prices, it means properties are selling closer to asking price.

Low inventory helps with that.

Homes were taking 40 percent less time to sell on average and, while it isn’t reflected in the chart below, North Fulton had approximately four months of inventory at the end of 2012 compared to three months at the end of last year.

Next week, I’ll share the sales data for Forsyth County.

ROBERT STRADER

Local Realtor Keller Williams Realty

flat, but asking prices were up 6 percent. Higher asking prices typically lead to higher sales prices and that bore out as well.

The average list price (asking price when a property went under contract) was up 7 percent and average sales

North Fulton House Sales: Q4 Year-Over-Year

SINGLE FAMILY

Total Transactions

Average Original List Price

Average List Price

Average Sales Price

Average Sale Price /Orig. List Price

Average Total Days On Market

Q4-2013

673

$425,970

$412,115

$397,991

95.4%

71.7

Change

1%

6%

7%

8%

2%

-40%

Q4-2012

667

$399,245

$382,040

$365,296

93.1%

118.7

State Farm Agency opens new Roswell office

Movie Tavern holds grand opening in Roswell Business: Movie Tavern Opened: December Owner: Southern Theaters LLC What: Dallas-based Movie Tavern, which offers a cinema dining experience with 141 all-digital screens at 17 locations in seven states, held a grand opening in Roswell.

The Movie Tavern offers a premium movie-going experience that caters to

adults and families. The in-theater dining experience features first-run movies combined with a wide range of chef-prepared menu selections.

Where: Sandy Plains Village, 4651 Woodstock Road in Roswell Call: 770-407-6653 Web: www.movietavern. com Email: specialevents@ movietavern.com.

Business: Celia Sandoval, State Farm Agency

Opened: January Owner: Celia Sandoval What: “I wanted to continue working in a place where I could not only make a living, but also give something back to the community and take care of my family and friends. State Farm has given me the opportunity to all of this. “I hold a bachelor’s degree in business, a Spanish teaching certificate PK-12 and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Kennesaw State University.”

Where: 990 Holcomb

PHOTO BY HEIDI GELDHAUSER

Bridge Road, Suite 1, in Roswell.

Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to noon and by appointment.

Web: www.celiasandoval.com Email: insurance@ celiasandoval.com

Osteria Mattone opens in Roswell Business: Osteria Mattone Opened: November Owner: Ryan Pernice and Ted Lahey What: Roswell’s newest neighborhood restaurant serves regional Italian cuisine with a heavy fo-

cus on Roman fare, combining casual spirit of an osteria with the formal dining of a trattoria.

Where: 1095 Canton Street in Roswell Call: 678-878-3378 Web: www.osteriamattone.com

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Carr, Riggs and Ingram LLC Carrie Hadley, Liberty Mutual Personal Insurance Clayton CameraCraft Photography Inc. Community Business Bank Conway & Owen Cookerly Public Relations Cosmetic Dentistry Center Cristomar Fine Rug Cleaning and Repair DaVinci’s Donuts Deerfield Master Association, Inc. Dickenson Gilroy LLC

Dime Business Services Diversified Financial Planning DUI LADY Ed Isakson/Alpharetta YMCA Fleming and Hall LTD Forsyth Roofing LLC Frederick Swanston Fulton Science Academy Private School Ganaway Contracting Company Georgia Commerce Bank Harry Norman Realtors Hart Commercial Realty

Hayden’s Way, Inc. Homes of Atlanta Unlimited Inc. Hop Alley Brewpub ICM Iroff and Son Kyle G. Caswell Laedan Consulting LLC Mammoth Detail Salons, Inc. McAlister’s Deli

Nancy Bristol North Atlanta Law Group, P.C. NorthPoint Executive Suites Partners Risk Services Patrick Corkill - Landscape Architecture PMG Commercial PNC Bank Pro@ctive CPA Quantum National Bank McGraw and Associates Regus (Harry Norman Realtors) Rhame Communications Merrill Lynch Ridenour and Associates Mike Brown Rising Roll Gourmet

Roger Koenigshof Roswell Home and Office Furniture Seven Seas Mediterranean Cafe Shah Legal Services LLC Simply Simpatico Inc. Somanu Advanced Medical Center Southern States Insurance Speedpro Imaging Alpharetta t-Olive Properties The Drake House The Kloster Group Inc. The Kurzen Group

The Lionheart School The Metropolitan Club The Stoneleigh at Deerfield Todd Hoffman Agency Nationwide Insurance Verizon Wireless Ampitheatre Veronica Stone Salon Wells Fargo Windward Business Center Association Workforce Matters

www.AlpharettaChamber.com

Submit your event online at northfulton.com

RYAN PIERONI

Calendar Editor ryan@northfulton.com Submit your event to northfulton.com or email with photo to calendar@ northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.

artist demonstrations, live acoustic music and gourmet food trucks with healthy alternatives. Jan. 25 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Jan. 26 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

980 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta.

Please call 404-873-1222 or visit callanwoldeartsfestival. com.

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC »

SOUTHEASTERN PASTEL SOCIETY EXHIBITION

“THE MIDTOWN MEN”

This sensational production reunites four stars from the original cast of Broadway's “Jersey Boys,” a musical retelling of the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony Award nominee J. Robert Spencer, star in this one-ofa-kind concert experience celebrating the music that defined the '60s. 7 p.m. Jan. 26. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta.

Please call 770-916-2800 or visit cobbenergycentre.com.

ART »

CALLANWOLDE ARTS FESTIVAL

The Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces is proud to announce the First Annual Callanwolde Arts Festival coming to the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. The festival is a two-day indoor event featuring approximately 80 painters, photographers, sculptors, metalwork, glass artists, jewelers and more.

The festival will also offer

"Pastel Renaissance” is a juried event that features more than 50 exquisite pastel paintings by members of the Southeastern Pastel Society. Meet the artists at the Opening Reception on Jan. 25 from 6 – 8 p.m. for light hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. The opening reception is free and open to the public. Paintings are available for purchase.

Every Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Jan. 25 – March 7.

Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek.

Please call 770-623-8448 or visit johnscreekarts.org.

THEATER » “STAN THE LOVESICK SNOWMAN”

Opposites attract in this charming tale of unrequited love. Stan’s adorable story begins after a chance encounter with a dog that has been sent outside in the wintry cold. The dog tells the snowman about a warm stove inside the house, and with a “crack-crackle” in his heart, Stan falls in love with the wood-burning beauty.

The unlikely romance, doomed from the start, is only the beginning in this hilarious and heartwarming tale as Stan later discovers that a young snowwoman is swooning over him as well. Show times vary. Jan. 2. – Feb. 2. 1404 Spring St. Northwest, Atlanta. Please call 404-873-3391 or visit puppet.org.

EVENTS » STATE SEN. JOHN ALBERS SPEAKS AT MILTON BUSINESS ALLIANCE Milton Business Alliance holds its first meeting of the year 6 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Atlanta National Golf Club. Network with fellow

CALENDAR business leaders and enjoy keynote speaker, state Sen. John Albers. 50 Tournament Players Drive, Milton (off New Providence Road). $5 entry payable at the door. Please visit miltonbusinessalliance.com.

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK ICE RINK

Celebrating its 15th anniversary season in the fall, downtown Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink at Centennial Olympic Park is an annual tradition.

Visitors enjoy covered observation seating, theatrical lighting on the real ice and music. 4:30 – 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 4:30 – 11 p.m.

Friday; 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Saturday; 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday. Through Jan. 20. 265 Park Ave. West Northwest, Atlanta. Please call 404-222-7275 or visit centennialpark.com.

ROSWELL RESTAURANT WEEK

Experience cuisine that delights your palate and defines the art of dining in Roswell, Georgia. Held annually, this event features 9 days of menus, specials, and discounts at over 25 participating restaurants. Restaurant hours. Jan. 21 through Feb. 1. Varying locations.

The full list of participating restaurants is online at roswellrestaurantweek.com.

NIGHT HIKE

Night hikers at the Chattahoochee Nature Center come to discover nightlife like never before.

The night entails a guided hike through one of our woodland trails or river boardwalk, all by the light of the moon. Experience a private animal encounter with fellow night hikers so you’ll know exactly what to look (or listen) for while out on the trail. 7 – 9 p.m. Jan. 18. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Please call 770-992-2055 or visit chattnaturecenter.org.

REPTILES!

Snakes, snakes and more snakes will be at the Chattahoochee Nature Center with Jason Clark, star of the Animal Planet series “SnakesKin.” Clark will be bringing out venomous and nonvenomous snakes during this exciting and humorous

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 19

show. Watch as kingsnakes and rattlesnakes leave their cages behind and meet some of their reptilian friends. Clark shares how to identify and be safe around snakes while recounting adventures from wildlife removal emergencies. At the reptile wagon, get an up-close view of live, native reptiles in this exciting traveling exhibit from the Southeastern Reptile Rescue. Snakes, tortoises and even alligators are waiting to be discovered.

Plus, more reptile related arts and crafts activities.

Noon – 4 p.m. Jan. 18. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Please call 770-992-2055 or visit chattnaturecenter.org.

SOUTHERN GARDENING SYMPOSIUM

Callaway Gardens’ Southern Gardening Symposium has been the South’s premier gardening event for a quarter of a century. Whether you’re a professional gardener or just a beginner, there’s simply no better place to immerse yourself in the world of gardening in the South. Enjoy a weekend full of gardening lectures from renowned speakers, educational workshops and an opportunity to take home outstanding garden plants from our Gardening Marketplace. Jan. 24 - 26.

US Highway 27, Pine Mountain, Please call 800225-5292.

RACES & BENEFITS »

FROSTED FOOT TRAIL RACE

Join Dirty Spokes for this 7- and 3.5-mile running race through Central Park in Cumming. A T-shirt comes with registration for the event, and awards will be given to the top three finishers in each age group.

Registration required. 7 a.m. Jan. 18. Central Park, 2300 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming. Please visit dirtyspokes.com.

TOP FIVE EVENTS “A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD”

Milton Theatre Company presents the children’s whimsical musical “A Year with Frog and Toad,” which follows the adventures of a jovial Frog and a grumpy Toad. Jan. 16-17 at 7 p.m., and Jan. 18 at 2 and 7 p.m. Milton High School, 3025 Birmingham Highway, Milton.

Please call 770-343-8326 or visit miltontheatrecompany.com.

BRING ON THE SNOW 5K

A 5K benefitting the Flood Student Missions and their vision of developing Servant Leaders for the community. Bundle up and come run, Registration available in advance or at 7 a.m. on the day of the race. 8:30 a.m. Jan. 18. South Forsyth High School, 585 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming. Please visit active.com.

JAZZ MUSICIANS ANNE DRUMMOND AND LEW SOLOFF

The Velvet Note presents Anne Drummond and Lew Soloff, jazz flautist and trumpeter, respectively, for a night of jazz. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Jan. 17-18. 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. Please call 855583-5838 or visit thevelvetnote.com.

NORTH FULTON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ART SHOW

The Roswell Art Commission is sponsoring this year’s North Fulton High School Art Show with the Roswell Fine Arts Alliance and the Roswell Visual Arts Center located in Roswell Park. 6 – 9 p.m. Jan. 24 through Feb. 6. 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell.

Please call 770-594-6122.

MLK DAY 5K

A 5K race to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day through Piedmont Park.

There will be a drum line along the race course, as well as a post-race celebration with music and events celebrating MLK Day. Participants will receive an MLK Day 5K T-shirt.

Registration required. 8 a.m. Jan. 20. 400 Park Drive Northeast, Atlanta.

Please visit mlkday5k.com.

READING WITH RINGLING

Reading with Ringling is a unique reading program that earns kids a Ringling Bros. circus ticket just by doing their library reading. Through Jan. 31. All branches of the AtlantaFulton Public Library System. Please visit readingwithringley.com.

20 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

After several months of speculation and negotiations, Costco plans for a big box store in Cumming will be moving forward.

Construction likely to commence later this month.

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Plans were first submitted to the city of Cumming last February, and construction crews began to grade the site. In May of 2013, Costco Wholesale received approval by the city for the sale of alcohol at its future facility, but

by June, the negotiations were halted when the warehouse store giant told the landowner of the proposed property on Bald Ridge Marina Road it was “terminating the purchase agreement.”

News that Costco is going to move forward with its Forsyth County location was welcomed by dozens of Forsyth

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CUMMING, Ga. — It’s back on.

After plans stalled and construction was halted in the summer, a long waiting period of negotiations and much doubt ensued; but the wait appears to be over. The construction of the Costco Wholesale on the northeast corner of Bald Ridge Marina and Market Place Boulevard off Ga. 400 at exit 15 is expected to pick back up at the end of the month.

“We’re very hopeful that Costco will start building early this year,” said Emory Lipscomb, the attorney representing the owners of the property.

“We are working through getting the grading work that we were doing. We were held up due to the tremendous amount of rain that we’ve had, but we hope that maybe even this month that they will take over and start building there.”

Lipscomb said Costco Wholesale will be handling the construction of the 148,000-square-foot building with about 650 parking slots.

“I hear from people everywhere that are so anxious to see that building open, and I am too, so we’re all looking forward to that,” Lipscomb said.

Cumming Mayor H. Ford

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By ALDO NAHED aldo@forsythherald.com

Herald readers, who shared and commented on a Facebook post.

Kimberly Barnes said she was, “Excited!”

“I hate driving to Windward, and I like that my sales tax dollars will now stay in Forsyth,” Barnes wrote.

James Trobaugh said: “Thank goodness, as much as I’m not looking forward to this next to my house, I’ve really grown tired of looking at the muddy mess that is there now.”

The $55 per year membership warehouse club has hundreds of locations worldwide including nearby Alpharetta and Buford.

SPORTS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 21

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Local girls win state tennis championship ROSWELL, Ga. – The Thunder girls’ tennis team, a group of Roswell-area high school students, won the Georgia School Team State Championship Dec. 8 in Alpharetta by defeating the North Nuttetts team 4-2 in the finals.

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22 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

OPINION

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

JOHNS CREEK »

New Year, new slate, new opportunities And then there was one.

In the stormiest year of Johns Creek’s short life, politics flared incredibly for six months.

Five members of the City Council united to unseat the city’s only mayor. With the res-

ignation of Ivan Figueroa (who is relocating to South Georgia), only Brad Raffensperger remains on board, and is likely to be a marginalized voice – which he rarely exercises on council; and then, it is usually to quote someone else (Ronald

Reagan is a favorite).

The reality is, that edition of the City Council had checked out some time ago.

Most of the big decisions were left to the city manager and the staff. In theory, the council professed that it was their duty

to set policy and the staff’s duty to carry out that policy.

But in the last two years or so, there was precious little “policy setting.” By that time, most of the decision-making had been handed over to others. Most issues at work sessions were preemptory with little discussion. Now, some of this no doubt rested on the competence of staff and the clarity of purpose.

But over time, it certainly seemed that the absence of discussion was the rule. A question or two might be asked, but seldom was there any follow-up.

Nor were issues discussed or explained during the regular meetings that followed work sessions. Instead, they quickly passed with most in attendance left in the dark because what discussion there had been was heard in the work session that had just adjourned.

While this practice usually produced a sigh of relief in this reporter, I began to realize this lack of presentations by staff to the public was a disservice to the citizens. It meant that not only did the public get little information about the city’s business unless they attended work sessions – which are held in a room with limited seating behind council chambers – items discussed were voted up or down the same day.

In my experience, items discussed in work sessions seldom were presented for a vote the same day. But then work sessions are seldom held backto-back with regular sessions.

It may appear to be efficient, but it does not promote transparency.

This does not allow the citizens to gauge the way councilmembers think about the items that come before them.

It seemed to me at least part of this reticence was a reluctance to appear going against the grain. The previous council seemed to put a premium on consensus rather than expressing opinions. This became oppressively clear during last summer.

Apparently, they felt the need to muzzle any public comment from volunteer city board members on the mayor’s investigation. And when the chairman of the Planning Commission brought up a change of the city charter to rectify a clear slap at free speech,

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

council made no bones about refusing to consider it precisely because they knew they would not like what he had to say, i.e. that mayor’s probe was unwarranted and possibly illegal.

The citizens of the city made their feelings clear, and the election results are there for all to see. Whether it was a vote of confidence for the mayor or revulsion of the tactics to remove him, it is impossible to say for sure, but surely a mixture of the two.

Now we have a City Council with two new members of council seated and two more to come in a special election sometime this spring.

It will be a new broom indeed. However, those who ignore the past are doomed to repeat it, the philosopher says.

The old council had a heavy load when they took office.

First, there was no precedent for them, no institutional memory to guide them.

But they were the leaders of the move to cityhood, and so they stood up for the jobs that most of the populace was more than willing to accede to them.

They did not start out to be the body that ultimately was turned out in favor of political neophytes. The city was happy to leave things in their hands.

The transition into the board they became was a slow process and insidious. They did not get good advice from the professionals around them.

And instead, they allowed their responsibilities to be slowly appropriated.

Now these two, soon to be four, newcomers must learn the lessons so bitterly learned over these last seven months.

Don’t be afraid to challenge what you are told. Don’t place a premium on consensus. It’s possible to dissent and still be a team player.

Holding office means having a willingness to make up your own mind and to state your reasons. It sounds easy in theory, but in practice, it is far from it.

But that is the job.

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

OBITUARY »

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 23

LETTER TO EDITOR »

Johns Creek resident Jack Friends makes plea for family in need Wofford, 51, dies suddenly

By Shelley Jordan Johns Creek resident

Friends initiate fund for family JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Jack Wofford, age 51, of Johns Creek died Jan. 7, 2014.

Active in restaurant management, his career started at age 17 at La Paz in Sandy Springs. His career continued in the restaurant industry with Roasters Rotisserie, Carmen’s Pizzeria and Jim ’N Nick’s BBQ. Mr. Wofford was an avid golfer and participated in the annual Wofford Memorial Golf Tournament each year. A humble and great man, he will be missed by his family as well as co-workers, customers and all who knew him.

Mr. Wofford is survived by his wife Peggy Wofford and his daughter Trixie Wofford, both of Johns Creek; sisters Jeanne Weinstein of Atlanta and Perrin Rountree of Cincinnati, Ohio; brothers J. Brian Wofford, Jeff Wofford, both of Jacksonville, Fla., and Tom Wofford of

Portland, Ore. Funeral services were held Sunday, Jan. 12 at Sandy Springs Chapel. Dr. Gil Watson officiated the service, and burial followed at Arlington Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jack Wofford Memorial Trust Fund at Jim ’N Nick’s BBQ. Contact Bob Haynes at 678-630-2821.

My daughter Joy Bullington’s very close friend since kindergarten, Trixie Wofford, lost her father, Jack Wofford, last week from a sudden unexpected heart attack. He died at the young age of 51, leaving behind a loving wife, Peggy Wofford, and his daughter who is a junior at Chattahoochee High School.

When the economy got rough, Jack lost his job as a restaurant manager when the restaurant closed. He got temporary management jobs in other locations, then his career changed from full-time manager (high paying) to part-time multiple restaurant supervision jobs (hourly, low paying).

He was working as much as 100 hours a week in order to keep their home and feed the family. Two weeks before Jack lost his last management position, Peggy had an accident in the kitchen and shattered her foot.

Before the accident, Peggy worked for years at the local Ace Hardware that was on the corner of Jones Bridge and State Bridge and was friendly to every shopper. So many people in the community knew and still know Miss Peggy. Since the injury, Peggy has developed some serious health problems and is not able to work at all.

Peggy was a Girl Scout troop leader and involved in Girl Scouts for 10 years and was an absolute gift to the Girl Scouts.

The Wofford family almost lost their house many times, but has been able to hang on to it through hard work and determination.

Given their financial difficulties and Peggy’s illness, they were always finding ways to cut costs; and so Jack even stopped paying for his life insurance a couple of years back.

Therefore, besides losing a loving/ caring husband and father, Peggy and Trixie Wofford are in a scary financial crisis.

We don’t want Trixie to quit school and start working full-time to try to pay bills, and we don’t want one of the original Johns Creek families to go homeless and possibly have to split up. Therefore, a memorial trust fund was set up for donations for Peggy and Trixie Wofford in order to keep them from becoming homeless and so Trixie can stay in school.

Please open your heart and donate (even if it is just $5) to the Jack Wofford Memorial Fund at SunTrust Bank.

Contact the trustee Robert A. Haynes at Jim ’N Nick’s BBQ at 678630-2821 for information on how to make a donation.

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Name: Andreona Andreona Keys Keys Age: 17 Athletic Team: Varsity Basketball Position: Small Forward School and/or Community Activities: Varisty Volleyball/ Basketball GPA: 3.5 Athletic Awards: 2012, 2013 All Tournament Team, Region 6AAAAA, 2010, 2011 Freshman Region Player of the Year Future Plans: Attend Purdue University to play basketball

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NorthFulton.com

24 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

North Fulton principal steps down over ‘poor decisions’ Former Ga. PTA Principal of the Year admits violating school policy

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com MILTON, Ga. – One year after guiding his school to a National School of Excellence, Crabapple Crossing Elementary School has lost its highachieving principal for what appears to be lapses of judgment concerning employee comp time and childcare.

In a letter to parents on the final day of classes in December, former Principal George Freiberger outlined the circumstances leading to his abrupt resignation. He said his departure was with a “heavy heart” but best for all involved. m “Though not intentionally, I made some poor decisions regarding county policies involving my employees’ leave time, the business partnerships with our after-school enrichment programs and the after-school care for my children,” wrote Freiberger in a surprisingly candid letter dated Dec. 20.

Fulton School officials said

the issues did not rise to the level of criminal wrongdoing, but were reportable offenses to the Georgia Professional Standards FRIEBERGER Commission.

This agency sets and applies guidelines for the certification and licensing of public educators in Georgia.

Freiberger’s children apparently received services at no cost through a private afterschool program at Crabapple Crossing.

In addition, some employees were allegedly allowed to take comp time for hours worked. Both issues violate school system policy.

While not confirming directly the reasons behind the resignation, officials said an investigation had been ongoing for the past few months after anonymous tips were

Though not intentionally, I made some poor decisions regarding county policies involving my employees’ leave time, the business partnerships with our after-school enrichment programs and the after-school care for my children.”

GEORGE FREIBERGER Crabapple Crossing ES principal

reported to the school system.

Ron Wade, human resources director for Fulton Schools, said the letter Freiberger sent to parents acknowledges “serious lapses in judgment,” but that the principal handled the situation professionally. “[In] tendering his resignation and accepting responsibility for his actions, [Freiberger] showed professionalism during an unfortunate situation,” said Wade. “The district holds its school and central leaders to a greater standard, given that they are charged with managing and supervising others who must too work in accordance to district policies and ethical

practices.”

Freiberger has spent his entire educational career at Crabapple Crossing, starting out as a teacher in 1998 before being promoted to assistant principal in 2004, and ultimately the principal in 2009.

Freiberger attended Villanova University in Pennsylvania on a football scholarship, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in educational leadership in 1998. He also holds a specialist’s degree from Lincoln Memorial University.

In 2012, Crabapple Crossing Elementary was named a National Blue Ribbon School

of Excellence, following its designation as a Georgia School of Excellence in 2010.

Freiberger was also one of only four principals across the state to receive the Georgia PTA’s Outstanding Principals Award in 2013. Until a permanent principal is hired, the Fulton School System has named Lenni Forti as the interim principal at Crabapple Crossing.

Forti is a former principal at Sweet Apple Elementary School and also served as an assistant principal at Barnwell, Lake Windward, Mountain Park and Roswell North elementary schools before his retirement two years ago.

The play has a large cast. Here, they run through a dance number during rehearsal.

JCHS: Continued from Page 1 reasons,” said Debbie Prost, JCHS director. “It is a nontraditional fairytale with many comedic attributes. In addition, the music is a departure from typical musicals and provided a challenge for our actors and orchestra.

“We felt that we had the perfect group of students to meet these challenges and showcase these comedic elements,” she said. “Also, the story of ‘Once upon a Mattress’ has so many facets that it will appeal to audiences of all ages. “ Prost is joined by Rhonda Fossum, musical director and orchestra conductor, and choreographer Allison Polaski in their fourth production together at JCHS. Seventy-five students make

up the cast and crew that have been rehearsing since early November for the late-January performances.

“Once Upon a Mattress” is the story of the gloomy but handsome Prince Dauntless (senior Bryce Irvin) looking for a princess to be his true love. He is being “helped” by his talkative and overbearing mother Queen Aggravain (senior Tori Beauchamp and junior Kennedy Coe) who declares that no one in the kingdom will marry until her son is wed to a princess of true royal blood. “I am not at liberty to ‘talk’ about my role,” said senior Sam Sheriff tongue in cheek. He plays King Sextimus who was rendered mute by an evil spell and can only communicate by pantomime.

“I love the dysfunctional personalities of the members of the royal family. ‘Mattress’ is a hilarious farce that everyone

If you go What: JCHS, Once Upon a Mattress When: 7 p.m. Jan. 30 to Feb. 1 Where: Johns Creek High School, 5575 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $15 adults; $12 students More Info: jchsdrama.com will enjoy,” said Sheriff.

After the Wizard (freshman Daniel Furney) unsuccessfully interviews numerous prospective princesses, Sir Harry (senior Albert Pham), the heartthrob and brave knight of the kingdom, discovers a most unlikely princess in Winnifred the Woebegone (seniors Annie Lee and Simone Bosch), who lives in the swamp.

“I love playing Princess

Harrison Mead and Lizzie Bond put their best foot forward during rehearsals.

Fred. She presents the challenge of mixing the attributes of a delicate princess with her own personality, which involves bad posture and not-so dainty remarks,” said Lee. Bosch, who shares the role of Winnifred, added, “I love that my character is fun-loving and full of life. She may be a princess but definitely doesn’t fit the stereotype of one.”

Naturally, the edict that no one may marry until Prince Dauntless does cause a great deal of – ah, dramatic tension throughout the kingdom.

Additional characters are Lady Larken (junior McKenna Conboy) and two mischievous and witty characters, the Jester (senior Harrison Mead) and the traveling Minstrel (freshman Brennen Blotner).

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CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-14-AB-02

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-14-AB-01

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-14-AB-03

PLACE City Hall Two South Main Street Council Chambers January 23, 2014 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two South Main Street Council Chambers January 23, 2014 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two South Main Street Council Chambers January 23, 2014 3:00 P.M.

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Liquor, Beer & Wine Sunday Sales APPLICANT Balance Restaurant Group, LLC d/b/a Kickshaw Grill 800 North Main St. Suite 130 Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Owner Balance Restaurant Group, Inc. Registered Agent Stewart A. Miller

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Liquor, Beer & Wine Sunday Sales APPLICANT Annie’s Italian Kitchen, Inc. 3070 Windward Plaza Suite X-1 Alpharetta, Ga. 30005

PURPOSE Package Store Beer & Wine APPLICANT SK Empire, LLC d/b/a Khan’s Food Mart 3955 Old Milton Parkway Alpharetta, Ga. 30005

Owner Annie Scoles Registered Agent William R. Thompson

Owner SK Empire, LLC Registered Agent Faraz Khan

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CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK COUNCIL CHAMBER 12000 FINDLEY ROAD, SUITE 300 JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097 The following Land Use Petition/Special Use Permit proposals located within the City of Johns Creek are scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above.

LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

RZ-14-001 (Deferred) Alliance Development Group, LLC 9300 Block of Brumbelow Road AG-1 (Agricultural District) R-3A Conditional Two single-family lots

LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

RZ-14-003 & VC-14-003-1 and 2 Mr. Glenn Rozansky 5800 Block of State Bridge Road C – 1 (Community Business District) Conditional C – 1 Conditional Develop a 3,760 SF stand-alone fast-food restaurant with outdoor patio.

Concurrent variance to eliminate the requirement for a pitched roof, and to deviate from building colors in the Community Standards.

LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION:

SUP-14-001 William & Reed Academy 11800 Block of Douglas Road 11850 Block of Jones Bridge Road C – 1 (Community Business District) Conditional Private school, grades 6 – 12

CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the City Council on Monday, February 3, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. V-14-05 Coro Realty Building- 10 Roswell Street Consideration of a request for a parking variance in order to expand office and retail uses within an existing building. The property is located at the southeast corner of Milton Avenue and Roswell Street and legally described as being located in Land Lot 1269, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK RFQ NUMBER #14-037-1 Professional Engineering Services for Barnwell Road Enhanced Sidewalk and Intersection Improvements The City of Johns Creek seeks design consulting firms to provide professional engineering and related services for the Barnwell Road enhanced sidewalk and intersection improvements project.

The City of Johns Creek is accepting sealed Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from qualified firms for professional services. Sealed RFQ’s will be received no later than 2:30 P.M. on February 6, 2014 in the City of Johns Creek Purchasing Office, 12000 Findley Rd., Suite-400, Johns Creek, Georgia, 30097. RFQ’s received after the above time or in any other location other than the Purchasing Office will not be accepted. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on January 21, at 11:00 AM at the City Hall Council Chambers, 3rd floor.

RFQ packages are available on the City website at www. johnscreekga.gov. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Purchasing Office at (678) 512-3233.

RFQ’s shall be presented in a sealed opaque envelope with the RFQ number and name clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. The name of the company or firm submitting an RFQ response should also be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. EIGHT (8) ORIGINALS AND ONE (1) COPY OF THE RFQ ON CD MUST BE SUBMITTED. RFQ’s will not be accepted verbally or by fax or email.

All offerors must comply with all general and special requirements of the RFQ information and instructions enclosed herein.

The City of Johns Creek reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities, and to make award in the best interest of the City of Johns Creek.

John Kachmar City Manager

Mike Bodker Mayor

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CITY OF JOHNS CREEK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU PUBLIC NOTICE OF 2014 MEETING CALENDAR

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Johns Creek Conven�on and Visitors Bureau Board Members approved the following 2014 Mee�ng Calendar. All mee�ngs are scheduled for 9:00am and will be held in the Taylor Farms Conference Room which is located at Johns Creek City Hall, 12000 Findley Road, Suite 300, Johns Creek, GA 30097, unless otherwise posted. Should you have any ques�ons regarding this 2014 Mee�ng Calendar of the Johns Creek Conven�on and Visitors Bureau, Inc., please contact City Clerk, Joan Jones at 678-512-3212 or by email at joan.jones@johnscreekga.gov.

Along with other previously advertised items the following item will be considered by the City Council on Monday, January 27, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia.

JANUARY 14, 2014 FEBRUARY 11, 2014 MARCH 11, 2014 APRIL 15, 2014 MAY 13, 2014 JUNE 11, 2014

JULY 8, 2014 AUGUST 5, 2014 SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 OCTOBER 14, 2014 NOVEMBER 4, 2014 DECEMBER 9, 2014

City of Johns Creek Public Meeting for SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) Project CSHPP-0007-00(310), P.I. No. 0007310 On Thursday, January 30, 2014 at the Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30005, the City of Johns Creek will hold a Public Meeting concerning SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project), Project CSHPP-0007-00(310); P.I. No. 0007310 in the northern part of Fulton County.

SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) proposes to reduce traffic congestion by providing turn lane improvements along an approximately 1 mile section of roadway. A 5-foot sidewalk will be installed along the south side with an 8 to 10-foot sidewalk on the north side of SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road.

The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with an opportunity to view the proposed project; ask questions and comment on the project.

The meeting will be conducted between the hours of 4:30p.m. and 6:30p.m. The meeting will be informal and the public is invited to attend anytime during these hours. There will be no formal presentation.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) information: The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by calling (Cindy Jenkins, Transportation Engineer – 678-512-3269).

Comments concerning this project will be accepted until Thursday, February 13, 2014.

Please submit your comments to: Tom Black, P.E. Director of Public Works Attn: Cindy Jenkins City of Johns Creek 12000 Findley Rd., Ste. 400 Johns Creek, GA 30097 Email: info@johnscreekga.gov (678) 512-3200

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a. V-14-04 Topgolf Consideration of a height variance to allow 138’ poles that are used to hold netting to trap the golf balls. The property is located on Westside Parkway and legally described as being located in Land Lots 639, 654, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK RFQ NUMBER #14-037 Professional Engineering Services for Widening of SR120 / Abbotts Bridge Rd From Parsons Rd to SR 141/Medlock Bridge Rd PI #0012788 The City of Johns Creek seeks design consulting firms to provide professional engineering and related services for the widening of SR 120 /Abbotts Bridge Rd from Parsons Rd to SR 141/Medlock Bridge Rd (GDOT PI#0012788).

The City of Johns Creek is accepting sealed Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from qualified firms for professional services. Sealed RFQ’s will be received no later than 2:00 P.M. on February 6, 2014 in the City of Johns Creek Purchasing Office, 12000 Findley Rd., Suite-400, Johns Creek, Georgia, 30097. RFQ’s received after the above time or in any other location other than the Purchasing Office will not be accepted. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on January 21, at 10:00 AM at the City Hall Council Chambers, 3rd floor.

RFQ packages are available on the City website at www. johnscreekga.gov. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Purchasing Office at (678) 512-3233.

RFQ’s shall be presented in a sealed opaque envelope with the RFQ number and name clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. The name of the company or firm submitting an RFQ response should also be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. EIGHT (8) ORIGINALS AND ONE (1) COPY OF THE RFQ ON CD MUST BE SUBMITTED. RFQ’s will not be accepted verbally or by fax or email.

All offerors must comply with all general and special requirements of the RFQ information and instructions enclosed herein.

The City of Johns Creek reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities, and to make award in the best interest of the City of Johns Creek.

John Kachmar City Manager

Mike Bodker Mayor

28 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

VARSITY BRIEFS Send us your news!

Email to news@northfulton.com More Info: 770-442-3278

Butler University INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Jessica Williams of Suwanee recently danced in Butler Ballet’s 31st annual production of “The Nutcracker” in Clowes Memorial Hall of Butler University.

Butler Ballet’s performance of

Tchaikovsky’s classic featured 112 Butler dancers, plus 33 young dancers from the Indianapolis community, and was accompanied by the Butler Symphony Orchestra.

Va. Commonwealth University RICHMOND, Va. – The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi announced that Alexis Collins of Roswell was recently initiated

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com | Recycled paper into Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Collins is pursuing a degree in dance at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Membership is by invitation and requires nomination and approval by a chapter.

Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors, having at least 72 semester hours, are eligible for membership.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, February 6, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, February 24, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. Z-13-15/V-13-18 Stonewalk Mayfield Corners Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 2.3 acres from R-15 to R-10MHD (Historic District in order to permit 18 “for-sale” single family attached homes. The property is located at the southeast corner of Mayfield Road and Canton Street and legally described as being located in Land Lots 1197, 1252 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. b. Z-13-13/CLUP-13-14/V-13-17 Peachtree Residential Townhomes Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 2.97 acres from R15 to R8A in order to develop 24 townhomes. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested as well as a stream buffer variance. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1270, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. c. Z-14-04/CLUP-14-02/V-14-02 Marietta Street Townhomes Rezone from CUP & R-10M TO R-8A in order to develop townhomes. A variance to the required City creek buffers and setbacks is also requested as well as well as a change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan from “High Density Residential” to permit “Medium Density Residential”. The property is located in Land Lot 1270 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. d. Z-14-03/CLUP-14-01/V-14-01 Kimball Road Tract Consideration of a request to rezone 9.142 acres from AG to R-10 in order to develop a single family for-sale subdivision at the southeast corner of Kimball Bridge and Buice Road. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan from “Low Density” to “Medium Density” is also requested in order to permit 10,000 square foot lots. A request to reduce the setback from Kimball Bridge Road from 65’ to 30’ is also requested. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lots 93 and 94, 1st District, 1st Section, Fulton County, Georgia. e. MP-14-01 Oxford Green Master Plan Amendment/Cobalt Center Consideration of a change to a previous condition of zoning in order to permit full access curb cuts on Cumming Street into an existing development. A request for general site approval of a proposed 4 story parking deck and new parking configuration is also requested. The property is located at the corner of Cumming Street and Windward Parkway off of Cingular Way and legally described as being located in Land Lots 1185, 1186, 1192, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. f. PH-14-01 Unified Development Code – Planning Commission Readings Consideration of an amendment to the Unified Development Code in order to change the number of times a change to the code is heard by the Planning Commission in order to require one public hearing instead of two. g. PH-14-02 Unified Development Code – Special Event Facilities Consideration of an amendment to the Unified Development Code in order to permit special event facilities to hold events up to 30 days without obtaining City Council approval.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

University of Virginia CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Fellowship Christian School graduate Emily Sonnett helped the University of Virginia women’s soccer team reach the NCAA Division I Championship College Cup Tournament for the first time since 1991. The sophomore defender was also among four Virginia players named to the First Team of the All-Southeast squad by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA). Sonnett, who graduated from FCS in Roswell in 2012, ranked eighth on the Lady Cavaliers with nine points (two goals, five assists).

Harding University SEARCY, Ark. – Suwanee resident Victoria Sams, a social work major at Harding University, was inducted into the university’s Alpha Chi Honor Society Nov. 17, 2013. The society recognizes the academic excellence of college students nationwide.

To be selected for induction,

students must be in the top 10 percent of their class. Alpha Chi encourages high standards and acknowledges the scholarship of these students.

Tennessee Wesleyan College ATHENS, Tenn. – Tennessee Wesleyan College has proudly accepted new students for enrollment for the upcoming academic year and welcomes Christopher Mokros of Roswell as a new TWC Bulldog.

University of Alabama TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alexis Lanning, a telecommunications and film major from Johns Creek, was named to the fall 2013 Dean’s List at the University of Alabama. Lanning was also inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. Eligibility for both is based on a grade point average of 3.5 or greater.

See VARSITY, Page 29

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Varsity:

Continued from Page 28

Georgia Southern University STATESBORO, Ga. – Christopher J. Davis of Milton received Dean’s List honors during the spring 2013 semester at Georgia Southern University.

Davis is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business

administration and information systems.

The 2011 graduate of Alpharetta High School plans to graduate from Georgia Southern in 2015.

Johnson and Wales University PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Anna Federspiel of Milton, a freshman at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, earned Dean’s List honors for

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | January 16, 2014 | 29 the fall 2013 semester. Federspiel is enrolled in the Hospitality College at JWU.

Wheaton College WHEATON, Ill. – Wheaton College student Kimberly Snooks recently performed in “Before the Marvel,” the 2013 Christmas Festival presented by the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Snooks, a junior from Alpharetta, played cello with the symphony orchestra.

University of Hartford WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – Sherry-Ann Nelson of Su-

NORTHSIDE CHAPEL

wanee graduated from the University of Hartford during fall commencement on Dec. 8, 2013, with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Rex T. Grizzle, Owner Locally Owned and Operated 12050 Crabapple Rd. Roswell, GA 30075

FUNERAL DIRECTORS 770-645-1414 info@northsidechapel.com and CREMATORY www.northsidechapel.com

North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory

DEATH NOTICES Antoinette Adam, 90, of Milton, passed away December 28, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Anita Faye Holcombe Alley, 66, of Woodstock, passed away December 31, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

James Garland Bagley, Sr., 67, of Cumming, passed away December 24, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Mildred Henderson Bales, 87, of Woodstock, passed away January 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Alice Gertrude Bliss, 92, of Gering, Nebraska, passed away December30, 2013.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Thomas Bowles, 97, of Roswell, passed away December 30, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Annabelle Bremer, 85, of Alpharetta, passed away December 26, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Robert Timothy Brookshire, 52, of Dawsonville, passed away January 3, 2014. Arrangements

by Byars Funeral Home.

James Chatham, 92, of Roswell, passed away January 1, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Bill W. Fry, 85, of Jasper, passed away January 3, 2014.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

John Cooke, 84, of Cumming, passed away January 4, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Susan Coombs, 85, of Woodstock, passed away December 29, 2013.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Braughton C.A. Mauldin, 83, of Cumming, passed away January 2, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Roger Thrasher, 82, of Roswell, passed away December 31, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

David McKenna, 51, of Roswell, passed away December 25, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Doris Lucille Way, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away January 1, 2014. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Dillon Gayton, 21, of Forsyth County, passed away January 1, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Susan Minehart, 60, of Roswell, passed away January 5, 2014.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Christopher Ryan Cooper, 25, of Gainesville, passed away January 6, 2014. Arrangements

by Byars Funeral Home.

Lynn Charles Green, 45, of Cumming, passed away December 31, 2013.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Kent T. Mitchell, 78, of Roswell, passed away December 30, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Margaret Cunning, 80, of Roswell, passed away December 25, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Barbara Hardeman, 88, of Lawrenceville, passed away January 6, 2014. Arrangements

by Roswell Funeral Home.

W.A. Davenport, 92, of Alpharetta, passed away December 30, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

David Eaden, Jr., 24, of Gainesville, passed away January 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Byars Funeral Home.

Deborah Fischer, 60, of Woodstock, passed away January 3, 2014. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Richard E. Foley, 81, of Johns Creek, passed away December 28, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Nancy Ann Hauth, 86, of Cumming, passed away January 6, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Margie Ruth Hicks, 77, of Suwanee, passed away January 7, 2014.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Curtis B. Jones, 86, of Alpharetta, passed away January 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Edward Joseph Langan, Sr., 77, of Roswell, passed away December 26, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Betty J. Moulder, 43, of Dawsonville, passed away December 31, 2013.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Leonard Oblinger, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away December 23, 2013.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Mildred Oblinger, 91, Alpharetta, passed away December 28, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Jeff Pervis, 72, of Roswell, passed away December 21, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Cephas A. Sitton, III, 52, of Roswell, passed away December 31, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Dora Lucille Logan, 81, of Cleveland, passed away January 2, 2014. Arrangements

by Ingram Funeral Home.

Virginia Smith, of Alpharetta, passed away. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

John Marsden, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away December 19, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Barbara Thomas, 94, of Roswell, passed away December 29, 2013.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Hazel Smith Weldon, 83, of Hoschton, passed away December 28, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

87, of Katherine West, Alpharetta, passed away December 23, 2013.

Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Wallace Gil White, 82, of Cumming, passed away January 4, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Louise Wildberger, 91, of Johns Creek, passed away December 31, 2013.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Juanita Winnett, 85, of Roswell, passed away January 3, 2014.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

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MISCELLANEOUS

*Positions also available at other locations. *ISMG, Inc. is an EOE, VPE, & drug free workplace.

HELP WANTED Private Alpharetta NAEYC accredited preschool seeking full-time infant, toddler, two’s & three year old teachers.

Minimum 2 years c l a s s r o o m experience & good knowledge of early c h i l d h o o d development. CDA or higher in ECE preferred.

Please send resumes to: resumes@mcginnis woods.org

for North Fulton/ Johns Creek CPA firm.

QuickBooks exp. incl online banking/credit card i m p o r t s , reconciliation & data review. Exp with payroll compliance.

R e s u m e s : cpa6290@gmail.com

month

per

. Selling ads for Coupon Magazine, from Cumming to Roswell. Pay weekly starting immediately.

All commission.

Perfect position for seasoned sales rep or someone breaking into the field. Work independently, full or part time. Growth opportunities. 678887-4599

Now accepting applicants for g e n e r a l managers, department managers & m a n a g e r trainees.

Compensation based on management experience.

Call Morgan interview

Rose for an

Millwork/Building Products, in-territory, daily travel, millwork sales experience preferred. North – West GA, & Atlanta area.

Promptly submit an online application @ www.ecmdjobs.com.

Now accepting applications for positions as openers and closers.

Up to 28 hours per week.

ANIMALS

Starting rate $9 per hour.

Call Morgan interview

Rose for

Or any one of the 9 locations in Alpharetta or Roswell

REAL ESTATE

tock 6 BR/5 BA Outstanding deal in Glen Brooke! $455,000 Garel Curry 404-863-0835 Harry Norman Realtors 770-497-2000

SERVICE DIRECTORY

ng Contemporar y home on Lake Lanier! $429,900 Kerry Neel 404-353-9121 Harry Norman Realtors 770-497-2000

sville Gated private estate! $1,400,000 Patricia Thompson 770-823-4669 Harry Norman Realtors 770-497-2000

Advantage Painting

Road Canton Award winning country estate! $1,350,000 Marie Sir 404-520-5263 Harry Norman Realtors 770-497-2000

Timeshare unit, sleeps 6. Kitchen. 1 wk/yr. $995. 770881-7083

770-255-8575 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs No Up Front Money

20 yrs. Refs.

Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, wood rot repair, tile, siding, paint, pressure wash.

Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured

Affordable; will beat any advertised price.

Excellent references!

PERSONAL SERVICES Great service!

Licensed, insured

Serving N. GA 22 yrs. Stump grinding.

Ins/affordable. Free ests! 770-887-8843, 678-858-0555 mmlabors@aol.com

32 | January 16, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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