Alpharetta Roswell Herald - January 26, 2017

J a n u a r y 2 6 , 2 0 1 7 | N o r t h F u l t o n . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 3 5 , N o . 4

Lady Titans leave no doubt against Chattahoochee

Fine art

Roswell highlights detailed artwork of George Gray ►►PAGE 28

Mixed-use development

Alpharetta approves residentialretail complex on South Main Street ►►PAGE 4

Fixing congestion

Webb Bridge Road residents pursue relief from traffic problems ►►PAGE 4

Planning ahead

Roswell council split over updates to its development plan ►►PAGE 6

Sail away with Appen’s Cruise Giveaway Learn how to win the cruise of your dreams ►►PAGE 19

Empty Nest The Lady Titans were all smiles after Makayla Davis hit three straight 3-pointers. See story page 33.

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2 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

PUBLIC SAFETY

JC woman found dead in Roswell 770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating the death of a Johns Creek woman found outside of a Roswell home in what they describe as an “obvious” homicide.

The woman has been identified as 53-year-old Karen Lee LaForge. Her body was found on Tyson Circle between Old Alabama Road and North-

PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 118 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 143 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102 TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL: News: news@appenmediagroup.com Press Releases: NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar ADVERTISING QUESTIONS: General Advertising: ex. 101 advertising@appenmediagroup.com Classified Advertising: ex. 119 classifieds@appenmediagroup.com Circulation/Subscriptions/Delivery: ex. 100 circulation@appenmediagroup.com Our Weekly Publications

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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.

Fake deputy fails to con wary man JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man reported a swindle Jan. 9 when he received a call from someone posing as a deputy demanding money.

The man received a phone call from a man claiming to be a deputy from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. The caller told him that his wife did not show up for jury duty and that there was an outstanding warrant for her arrest.

The man became suspicious of the caller when the caller kept insisting that the man needed to pay off the $1,500 fine using prepaid gift cards.

The caller even offered to escort the man to buy the gift cards, but the man put the caller on hold and called 911 instead.

Johns Creek police contacted the caller who told police that he got the case from the U.S. Marshals. When police followed up with the U.S. Marshals, however, they said that they did not have any such warrants and that it was a fraudulent call.

A Johns Creek police officer reached out to the caller impersonating a dep-

wood Elementary School.

A man inside the home on Tyson Circle called 911 around 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 17 when he discovered the body.

When police arrived, they found the already dead woman lying on the ground in the side yard.

Police said they do not know of any

relationship between the caller and LaForge.

Based on the condition of the body, police are investigating LaForge’s death as an “obvious” homicide, said Roswell Public Information Officer Lisa Holland.

According to the medical examiner’s office, LaForge died from blunt force trauma to the head.

There are no suspects at this time, according to Holland.

uty once again, but the caller insisted that the police officer was a fake and threatened him with prosecution. The officer told the caller not to contact the victim again.

Employee arrested for $2.7K in gift card thefts ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A store employee was arrested Jan. 15 after he was found allegedly giving away $2,700 worth of store gift cards.

A loss prevention officer at the North Point Parkway Target told police that he saw the teenage employee activating gift cards Jan. 7 and giving them to customers without accepting payments. The transactions involved three different customers.

Video surveillance showed the employee scanning numerous gift cards and hitting the cash tender button, indicating that the customer paid when they did not.

He was arrested without incident Jan. 15 for financial transaction card theft and theft by taking over $1,500.

Man reports credit accounts opened in his name MILTON, Ga. — A man reported Jan. 15 that his identity had been used

See BLOTTER, Page 37

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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 ►► Marc Andrew Cross, 23, of

Oakhurst Lane, Milton, was arrested Jan. 15 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane, attempting to elude police and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Kyle E. Christoffersen, 34, of Winding River Drive, Atlanta, was arrested Jan. 14 on Ga. 400 in Roswell for DUI and speeding. ►► Sarah Kathryn Kime, 55, of Rose Walk Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 13 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Jamal Bridge, 44, of Ridgemere Court, Stone Mountain, was arrested Jan. 9 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, suspended tag and failure to obey a traffic control device.

DRUG arrests ►► Christopher Jeudon Howard, 33,

of Little Hampton Court, Atlanta,

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 3

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Surgeon However, with the advent of astigmatism-correcting and multifocal lens implants, patients are now able to see clearly with independence from glasses.

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However, both categories of implants have their limitations. Accommodative implants do not provide adequate near vision for most individuals and still require the need for reading glasses. Multifocal implants usually provide good vision for intermediate and near tasks, such as working on the computer or reading a book; however, patients may experience glare or halos while driving, especially at night. Additionally, these implants do not correct astigmatism.

The newest presbyopic-correcting lens implant that received FDA approval in July 2016 is the Tecnis Symfony lens implant. This implant, categorized as the only “Extended Depth of Focus” implant, not only will give a broad range of vision from distance to near for patients but also improve the quality of their vision. The Symfony implant has been engineered to correct spherical and chromatic aberrations of the eye. These aberrations can diminish an individual’s image quality despite a normal and good surgical outcome. By reducing these aberrations, the Symfony implant will improve the quality of a patient’s vision. Furthermore, with a reduced incidence of glare and halos with this implant, patients are more likely to be satisfied with their visual outcomes. The Symfony implant is also available for astigmatic correction, unlike the previous multifocal implants, in the United States.

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4 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

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By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – It took longer than Avalon, but after nearly four hours of debate and questions, the developers behind a mixed-use project on South Main Street won approval Monday from a divided Alpharetta City Council. Duke Land Group had petitioned the city for a change in zoning to allow construction of “Downtown Main,” a mix of retail, office, restaurants and residential on 12.9 acres at the corner of Main Street and Devore Road. The land is currently the site of a long-empty shopping center, and had been zoned C2, a designation allowing a broad range of general commercial uses.

There was a healthy mix of sentiment from the crowd of about 100 residents who attended the meeting.

Some described the proposal as “outrageous,” and others characterized it as a possible salvation for a blighted area.

Following a negative vote from the Alpharetta Planning Commission last month, Duke Land brought a revised plan before the City Council Monday night.

Duke Realty sought 78 townhomes and 179 high-end apartments. It also included a 3-story office/retail structure,

Developer Duke Land Group envisions Downtown Main to be a key live-work-play development that will complement Alpharetta’s Main Street. a 3-story office building, 2 restaurants and a brewery occupying 25,000 square feet anchoring the complex.

The proposal did not sit well with Councilman Jim Gilvin, who cast a lone dissenting vote. Gilvin said approval of the project betrays the city’s Downtown Master Plan and the

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Alpharetta presents Webb Bridge survey findings City pursues course of action to relieve daily congestion

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – While residents along Webb Bridge Road have engaged Alpharetta for relief from traffic congestion, transportation planners are sorting through options they can assemble into a Webb Bridge Corridor plan.

But those options, as it turns out, remain limited and even confusing.

Survey results from close to 450 residents along the corridor paint a mixed picture of how to proceed with road improvements.

Following a Thursday, Jan. 19, meeting at City Hall with some 50 residents, several things are clear.

Homeowners do not want the road expanded into four lanes, and they want the speed limit reduced.

Those findings are no different from a consensus gathered at a public forum held last summer at Alpharetta High School when more than 100 attended the first of several forums on the issue.

What’s different now, however, is the city has the money to do something about it.

Because of the November passage of a .75-cent transportation sales tax

Alpharetta transportation senior engineer Eric Graves relates the results of traffic studies performed on Webb Bridge Road to some 50 residents who attended an information forum Jan. 19 at City Hall. in Fulton County, Alpharetta is due to receive $53 million in extra funding for road and pedestrian route improvements. The city lists $13 million in TSPLOST funds for the Webb Bridge Corridor Project.

“We don’t have any idea what the road is going to look like,” Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard told the crowd Thursday.

He said the city is still in the early stages of drawing plans, and it wants to get as much information from residents as possible before proceeding.

Right now there is some confusion

about how to ease congestion while keeping the road two lanes, Drinkard said.

The city is looking at how much of the traffic is due to commuters using the route as an east-west cut-through and how much are locally generated trips that begin or end on Webb Bridge Road.

Preliminary studies show the amount of cut-through traffic is low.

“There are a lot of houses out there, and with three schools on the corridor as well, that’s a lot of traffic that the destination is actually on the corridor itself,” Drinkard said.

Also, traffic studies show the amount of traffic on the road has actually remained fairly constant in recent years. Still, something has changed to create the congestion, Drinkard has said.

It may mean more vehicles are hitting the road at the same time or something has happened on an adjacent road that creates backups on Webb Bridge.

“We know the congestion is worse than it’s ever been,” Drinkard said.

Eric Graves, senior traffic engineer with the city, told the crowd that the city conducted a traffic survey on Webb Bridge about a year ago.

“In general, the stretch between North Point Parkway and Shirley Bridge

See ROAD, Page 5

Road:

NEWS

Continued from Page 4 is significantly higher than what we would look for if we were going to design a new road,” Graves said.

Typically, a single lane of roadway is designed to handle about 800 cars in each direction at peak hours.

Traffic numbers show about 1,200 vehicles passing through sections of Webb Bridge at peak hours. That’s about three hours in the morning – from 7 to 10 a.m. – in one direction and three hours in the afternoon – from about 4 to 7 p.m. – the other direction.

One solution to the problem the city thinks will work is road widening projects on Old Milton Parkway and Kimball Bridge Road, two major commuter arteries.

City officials say that if traffic flow is improved along those corridors, it could eliminate Webb Bridge Road as an alternate route.

As for Webb Bridge Road, the city is considering design elements, such as bike lanes, sidewalks farther off the roadway and intermittent medians.

These elements should slow traffic and give neighborhoods along the route easier access in and out of their subdivisions.

Drinkard said the city will take in-

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 5

Key points on Webb Bridge Rd. traffic counts • Peak hour traffic significantly increases between North Point Parkway and Shirley Bridge/Park Bridge Parkway.

• Traffic increases 40 percent at North Point Parkway and decreases 50 percent at Shirley Bridge/Park Bridge.

• Daily traffic volumes exceed corridor planning Level of Service standards for a twolane roadway between North Point and Shirley Bridge/Park Bridge.

• Hourly traffic volumes exceed Level of Service standards between North Point and Shirley Bridge/Park Bridge for approximately three hours a day each way.

• East of Shirley Bridge/Park Bridge, traffic volumes are within planning guidelines.

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6 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Roswell moves forward in reviewing Unified Development Code Council approves to work with Atlanta Regional Commission

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell City Council recently decided to have the Atlanta Regional Commission review the Unified Development Code, a project that is estimated to cost the city $10,000-$12,000 to complete.

The motion barely passed with a 3-2 vote supported by councilmembers Mike Palermo, Marcelo Zapata and Donald J. Horton.

They motioned for approval for the mayor to sign a contract with the Atlanta Regional Commission instead

of Code Studio to review the UDC amendments. At one point last year, there were more than100 amendments proposed for the plan, which provides a blueprint for residential and commercial development in the city. City staff requested quotes for the project from both Code Studio, which originally worked to develop the UDC, and the Atlanta Regional Commission. The ARC estimated the review would cost the city between $10,000-$12,000. Code Studio quoted a cost of around $13,500, including travel, to perform the work.

Zapata pointed out that the cost for Code Studio would likely rise because it included only one trip for the business.

Planning and Zoning Director Bradford Townsend said each subsequent trip would add an extra $3,500 to the total cost.

Mayor Jere Wood, however, ex-

plained that he was more concerned about the quality of the work than the overall price.

“This is important enough that I’m not concerned about the cost as much as the product,” he said. “We should be hiring the group the council feels will do the very best they can.”

Proponents of Code Studio’s work cited the firm’s experience working across the nation and familiarity with Roswell’s Unified Development Code.

“The costs are pretty similar,” said councilmember Jerry Orlans. “I would suggest we go with Code Studio instead of the ARC because of their experience and scope of knowledge and work that they have around the country that could help us.”

One of the major drawbacks to once again working with Code Studio that the City Council cited was the dissatis-

faction with the current Unified Development Code.

“In my personal perception, and in the perception that a lot of Roswell residents have, is that what came from the UDC did create the opportunity to really change the character of a lot of neighborhoods as well as our historic district,” Palermo said. “They had their shot. We’ve now got a living, breathing, working document from them.”

The Atlanta Regional Commission would bring a “fresh set of eyes” to help review the code, Palermo added.

“There were a lot of things Code Studio wanted to tell us, but we didn’t listen,” when it came to implementing the Unified Development Code, councilmember Nancy Diamond said.

According to Diamond, this friction could have caused the perceived problems.

Culvert replacement causes traffic delays New pipe to fix periodic flooding on Willeo Road

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Motorists traveling down Willeo Road can expect traffic delays to continue into February as the Roswell Environmental/Public Works Department replaces a damaged culvert.

The project is targeting an old culvert which has fallen into disrepair.

It has been causing safety issues and flooding on portions of Willeo Road as

the water has been backing up, according to Roswell’s Stormwater Utility Manager Nick Pezzello.

“The replacement will be improving the runoff in the area. We’ve had some periodic flooding, basically because the pipe is very, very deep and it can’t handle the current runoff into the Chattahoochee anymore,” said Pezello. “When we inspected the pipe and cleaned it out, we discovered that the bottom of it had basically rusted through. We went ahead and dislodged some plants to try and do our best to take care of that periodic flooding and ensure the safety of the road while we worked on getting the replacement.”

Over 7,700 vehicles travel down

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Willeo Road each day, according to a 2016 traffic count by the Department of Transportation.

Before the inspection, flooding caused by the damaged pipe created road hazards that impacted traffic traveling westbound on portions of Willeo Road. The culvert itself is located a quarter mile east of Bywater Trail.

Old age is the culprit for the pipe’s failing, according to Pezzello.

“It’s probably at least 30 years old at this point,” said Pezzello. “It’s hard to know its exact age since we don’t have records that go that far back.”

The replacement culvert is made with the latest technology to ensure that it lasts a much longer time than its

predecessor and creates a safer environment for motorists and pedestrians alike.

“It’s an HDPE pipe, or a high-density polyethylene pipe, so it should provide a much longer life. The average expectancy of a metal pipe is 20-25 years, and the expected life of the HDPE pipe is 75 plus,” Pezzello said. “It’s corrosion and weather resistant, and it’s resistant to chemicals, like hydrocarbons, so it should be able to withstand anything that comes off of the road.”

Weather permitting, the culvert replacement project should finish by Feb. 3. In the meantime, lane closures and traffic delays are expected during the weekdays as construction continues.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 7

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8 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald

JOHNS CREEK ARTS CENTER:

‘I, Too, Am America’ showcases black artists Works in various media display variety of African-American art

For the third year, the Johns Creek Arts Center will celebrate Black History Month with a month-long art show of contemporary African American artists featuring a range of media.

HATCHER HURD “We plan our art Scene & Hurd hatcher@appenmediagroup.com shows a year in advance. Althea Foster [Programming and Grant Writing] sat us down to talk about this show last year, and I am excited about it,” said JCAC Executive Director Stuart Miller.

“We have an impressive roster of artists and the diversity of their work is also quite amazing.”

Two of the artists are graduates of the Savannah School of Art and Design and the rest of the show has a lot of Atlanta flavoring.

If you go What: “I, Too, Am America,” African-American art showcase Where: Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Building 700, Johns Creek When: Jan. 30 – Feb. 26 Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cost: Free Perhaps the biggest “name” in the show is Atlanta architect Oscar Harris, who is also a gifted artist. Among his architectural designs in Atlanta are Centennial Olympic Park, Zoo Atlanta and the Fulton County Government Center. He also designed the HartsfieldJackson International Airport Atrium in its recent expansion.

“It is an impressive roster of artists.

And Harris is as an amazing artist, as he is an architect. His impressionist paintings are among my favorites in the collection,” Miller said.

Foster said in pulling together the art show, she chose as the theme “I Too,” a poem by Langston Hughes that has the line, “I, too, am America.”

“It is an assertion that black people are also a part of America. They have a different experience, but it is nonetheless an American experience,” Foster

This photograph by Joshua Redman McFadden captures an intimate tangent of a young man and an old man. One has the future all ahead of him, the other has his memories. It is a picture that invites us to imagine what is transpiring between the two generations. said.

There some really strong works in the show, including Sistography, a collective of black female photographers featured last year. There are also works from the Atlanta black artists’ organization African Americans for the Arts and of course Oscar Harris, she said.

“He is an accomplished visual artist and painter among many other artists,” she said.

The Arts Center also used Martin

Luther King Day as way to kick off Black History Month activities with families, and 96 were in attendance.

The official opening will be Saturday, Jan. 28, with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. The show closes Sunday, Feb. 26, 3-5 p.m. with a special closing event, The Artist’s Talk.

This year artist Jerushia Graham will speak on “The Power of the Picture.” Graham is printmaker and a professor at Kennesaw State University.

I Too I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.

They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong.

Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table When company comes.

Nobody’ll dare Say to me, “Eat in the kitchen,” Then.

Shelia Turner’s “No Justice No Peace” shows the power of the intersection of art and photojournalism.

Besides, They’ll see how beautiful I am And be ashamed— I, too, am America.

-- Langston Hughes

JCAC Registrar Stephanie Donaldson admires a painting.

HATCHER HURD/HERALD

OPINION

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 9

This is what democracy looks like I woke up Saturday to a tornado watch and rain pounding against my window. As lightning lit up the sky and thunder shook the ground, I prepared myself KATHLEEN STURGEON both mentally and physically for what Editor kathleen@appenmediagroup.com was to come.

My friend and coworker, Julia, and I got in my car and headed into the city to participate in the Atlanta March for Social Justice and Women. While on Ga. 400, the sky became darker and it started to rain harder. We kept joking, asking each other, “Is this an omen?”

But we figured some rain couldn’t stop us.

When we got downtown, the air was electric — and not from the storm.

I don’t quite know what I was expecting. I’ve never been one to publicly share my political stances.

On social media, I may “like” a photo, but I try my best to stay neutral.

I have family and friends on both sides, and I’d like to keep them in my life, more so I respect them and their right

to believe what they want.

My friends and I were excited. It has been a rough election cycle and we needed a chance for all of us to get together and express how we were feeling.

Thankfully, the march gave us that opportunity and, even more so, thankfully it was peaceful.

We weren’t there for a fight.

Of course, I heard heckles from people who didn’t understand or agree with what we were doing.

And I did see marchers holding signs and chanting slogans that I didn’t necessarily agree with or think were appropriate.

But that’s not what will stick with me. For me, the march was a positive, uplifting, passionate movement.

When it was raining, we held umbrellas over one another and shared ponchos.

Every time we passed a group of police officers, the entire crowd would start to cheer, clap, hug, line up to high-five and genuinely appreciate and respect our law enforcement.

When we passed a church along the route, clerical members and officials stood outside, handing out water bottles and telling the group their restrooms were open to all, and they had

places to rest.

I was overwhelmed by the love I saw from pretty much everyone.

We were there in unity. While we may not have all agreed nor had the same views on the issues that brought marchers to the event, we all were there to show that we had a voice and we weren’t backing down.

I didn’t go to the march to make a statement about our new president, as opposed to what many people believe.

No, instead I was there to show that I am united with anyone who feels like their voices aren’t heard. I was there to stand up for what I believe. I was there to show solidarity.

I believe that when a group of people want to accomplish something they feel strongly about, they are successful, regardless of gender, religion, skin color, sexual orientation, or really anything.

It’s an American right and privilege to be able to speak our minds without fear of repercussion. Just check the First Amendment.

I think we did that on Saturday. We may not have accomplished something tangible, but we made a statement. We were seen, heard and empowered.

And that makes me proud to be an American. March on.

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10 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Jack and Jill of America participate in MLK celebration ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Greater North Atlanta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. participated in the MLK Service and Unity March with the St James United Methodist Church on Monday Jan. 16.

The organization walked hand in hand with members of the community to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from St James United Methodist Church to the Alpharetta City Hall.

Jack and Jill of America Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2 to 19 and is dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders.

It does so by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and

civic duty.

The Greater North Atlanta Chapter’s goal is to create tomorrow’s leaders by: providing excellent chapter programming events, giving back to the community, supporting our organization’s Foundation, and focusing on legislative advocacy.

Jack and Jill does this by exposing children both its chapters and those in the community to people, places and things that will challenge them to “raise the bar.”

To learn more about the Greater North Atlanta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America visit:greaternorthatlantajnj. com.

The Greater North Atlanta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America participate in the MLK Unity March to Alpharetta City Hall sponsored by St. James United Methodist Church.

Please Join Us For Our Annual Gala!

Georgia Clinic Welcomes Dr. Britt Boyd to the Johns Creek location.

A long time North Fulton resident Dr. Boyd is Board Certified in Family Medicine with experience in minor trauma and urgent care as well as primary care.

Dr. Boyd is the new head of the Johns Creek location providing care for: • Immediate Urgent Care • Minor Emergencies • Lacerations • Injury/ Sports Injury • Minor Eye Injury • Lab, X-Ray and EKG Services • General Family Medicine • Physicals/Sports Physicals • Immunizations • Diabetes • Asthma Complete Physical Including Labs & EKG

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Celebrating Seniors

The Jewels of Our Lives Benefitting Senior Services North Fulton February 18, 2017 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM Country Club of the South 4100 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022

Britt Boyd, M.D.

Flu Vaccine

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Most Insurance and Medicare Accepted • Walk Ins Welcome

Call for Appointment 678-990-1831

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Individual Admission $150 • Table for Ten Guests $1300 Cocktail Attire Purchase your tickets by February 8th www.ssnorthfulton.org • 770-993-1906

11912 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat. 9am-1pm

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SCHOOLS

LOCAL EXPERT

12 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Governor Deal remains committed to fixing schools Number of ‘chronically’ failing rising

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com

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NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Undaunted by voter rejection of his plan to fix failing schools, Gov. Nathan Deal is pledging to continue the fight to help the growing number of students “trapped” in failing public schools.

During Deal’s State of the State address on Jan. 11, the governor said failing schools remain the “greatest negative” in the education landscape of Georgia.

“Two years ago, there were 127 chronically failing schools with roughly 68,000 enrolled students,” said Deal.

“Now...there are 153 schools that had a failing score for three consecutive years [serving] almost 89,000 students last school year.”

Since 2012, schools have been graded on the CCRPI (College and Career Readiness Performance Index) which evaluates schools on a 100 point scale covering academic performance and other variables.

Schools scoring below 60 are considering failing; three years of failing adds the label NATHAN DEAL “chronically failing.”

Georgia Governor Last year, Deal lobbied hard for a constitutional amendment creating the Opportunity School District (OSD) – a state-run district made up of the state’s lowest performing schools.

But voters soundly rejected that plan in November, concerned by the overreach of state government into local schools.

While Deal maintains the data proves outside intervention is still needed, others say the state is simply raising the requirements each year, guaranteeing more schools will be added to the list of failing schools.

While avoiding any plan specifics or legislative proposals, Deal said his efforts will be directed at elementary schools, which comprise 70 percent of the state’s failing schools.

“If we can reverse this alarming trend early on, if we can eliminate this negative that directly or indirectly

impacts all of us, then our reading comprehension scores, math skills, graduation rates and the quality of our workforce will all improve considerably,” said Deal.

Turning to teacher pay, Deal pledged to add $160 million to fund a 2 percent teacher salary increase in the Fiscal Year 2018 budget.

This year, the 3 percent increase given to school systems was intended for teacher raises. However only 60 percent passed the money directly to teachers; 40 percent of districts used the money for other purposes.

In FY18, the money will go directly into the state teacher salary plan, providing a true permanent raise for teachers.

Deal focused on the more than $2 billion increase in education funding over the last four years, pointing out nearly 50 percent of all new state revenue is going to public education.

But education advocates say revenue increases should be directed to fully funding the Quality Based Education (QBE) formula which determines how much money each school system receives.

Districts were particularly hit hard in the early 2000s when an “austerity cut” was first implemented to compensate for falling revenues. Those cuts have since become permanent.

While Deal has steadily reduced the level of cuts from $1.1 billion to $167 million last year, districts are still underfunded, school officials say.

“The governor is recommending that the state base salary schedule be increased 2 percent effective Sept. 1, but did not address the existing $167 million shortfall,” noted Angela Palm, director of policy for the Georgia School Boards Association.

Notably missing during the Jan. 11 speech was any mention of the blue ribbon Education Reform Commission which developed 58 recommendations for changes in education. Those recommendations were delivered to Deal at the end of 2015, with the governor pledging to consider the recommendations and fund those he wanted to implement this year.

...There are 153 schools that had a failing score for three consecutive years [serving] almost 89,000 students last school year.”

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 13

14 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Fulton officials study Dallas-Plano transit system Light rail ‘rejuvenated’ Plano, mayor says

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON – A bevy of North Fulton elected officials made a quick trip to Dallas, Texas, to see first-hand how the metroplex has managed to deal successfully with traffic congestion and spur economic development.

The delegation, headed by Fulton Commission Chairman John Eaves, along with 10 county mayors and county commissioners looked at how toll roads and light rail has fared especially with Dallas Area Rapid Transit or DART. Local MARTA officials made the trip to seek how its portion of the TSPLOST could be used. It was a true fact-finding mission and special attention was given to Plano, Texas.

Plano was a bedroom community to Dallas in the early 1990s, but today it is a metropolis of 230,000 people, roughly equivalent to North Fulton.

Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere said in a telephone interview DART has

been nothing short of “transformational” for his city. He had been contacted by Fulton County Commissioner Liz Hausmann.

Plano is one of 13 cities that comprise DART, and it lies at the end of the line for LAROSILIERE DART. That also is a similarity to North Fulton, which is the end of the line for MARTA’s northern service.

“Commissioner Hausmann shared with me and the others that there was some [TSPLOST] dollars earmarked for transportation in her district,” LaRosiliere said. “That was pretty similar to what happened to our area when 13 cities combined to form DART.” The crux of the meeting was looking at transit-oriented communities to see what are the advantages and opportunities of transit and what are the correlations [of transit] to economic development, he said.

Plano is 20 miles north of Dallas. It was a city with a downtown that was “dilapidated” and had little activity, he said.

“DART rail came in the late 1990s,

and that was a catalyst for the area.

Now our downtown is thriving and recently our town was named by the American Planning Association as a Great American Neighborhood last year – the second to receive that designation in Texas,” LaRosiliere said.

Plano today has been transformed, he said. The city has seen new businesses, restaurants, apartments and now is appealing to millennials and “young folks.”

The city has expanded the footprint

of its downtown and has a new concert plaza.

The quality of life in the city has “definitely improved,” he said.

“There is a lot more activity and vibrancy in the city. A lot of that has to do with DART rail coming in,” LaRosiliere said.

A second DART station is planned for Plano a few blocks away. The mayor said they expect it will expand its

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 15

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This tax exemption equalizes typical inventory relief for warehouses that previously did not include e-commerce warehouse facilities.

LIZ HAUSMANN, Fulton Commissioner

16 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017

Fulton County OKs Freeport tax exemption Measure targets e-commerce distribution as county becomes logistics hub

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – When the Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 21 to give a 100 percent Freeport exemption for e-commerce fulfillment centers in Fulton County, it was a clear signal to Amazon and other e-tailers, “we want your business.”

This move allows inventory of e-commerce distribution centers to have the same full tax exemption on inventories from Fulton County ad valorem (property) taxes that brick-andmortar centers already command.

Fulton County is already a huge destination point for hub distributors using Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and increased shipping via Savannah’s expanded port.

Across Georgia, growth in e-commerce is expected to attract more companies to local communities.

Fulton County, with its extensive logistic network, availability of land and a skilled workforce, already makes an attractive location for many businesses. Now it includes e-commerce businesses.

With Savannah’s expanded harbor and expanding inventory warehousing, Fulton County’s attractiveness to e-commerce can only improve.

“This tax exemption equalizes typical inventory relief for warehouses that previously did not include e-commerce warehouse facilities,” Fulton Commissioner Liz Hausmann said. “In

light of growth in that industry, in light of the relocation of UPS relocating their major Southeast Distribution Hub on Fulton Industrial Boulevard, we anticipated that this will attract the Amazontype businesses and HAUSMANN increase jobs while improving the tax base as well.”

While UPS is just the shipper of goods, its $400 million new facility will benefit from a robust e-commercial zone around it.

The exemption only applies to invenEAVES tory held fewer than 12 months. Last fall, county voters overwhelmingly approved expansion of Freeport Exemptions as allowed by HB 935, adopted by the General Assembly in 2016.

“The Freeport Tax Exemption is expected to ignite job growth in Fulton County by targeting the e-commerce industry that will be a vital economic engine for decades to come,” said Hausmann, who serves as the Board of Commissioners’ executive sponsor for Economic Opportunity. “This new incentive will make Fulton County very attractive to this industry of the future.”

Fulton Commission Chairman John Eaves called the exemption “a great

incentive that will continue attracting companies to Fulton County and spur economic development.”

Business investment means Fulton jobs and tax dollars that benefit the entire county, he said.

Fulton County already offers 100 percent Freeport Tax Exemption for several categories of goods, including: • Inventory of goods in the process of manufacture or production, including finished goods and raw materials held for direct use or consumption in the taxpayer’s manufacturing or production business in Georgia.

• Inventory of finished goods manufactured or produced within the state in the ordinary course of the taxpayer’s manufacturing or production business and when held by the original manufacturer or producer of such finished goods.

• Inventory of finished goods which, on Jan. 1, are stored in a warehouse, dock, or wharf, whether

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public or private, and which are destined for shipment to a final destination outside Georgia, and inventory of finished goods which are shipped into Georgia.

“With the expansion of the Freeport Exemption, Fulton County will maintain its position as the leading destination for e-commerce jobs and investment,” said Al Nash, CEO of Select Fulton, the county’s economic development arm.

It should also revitalize aging warehousing in the airport area that now becomes attractive to revitalize because of the airport and UPS. “Not only will this mean revamping and modernizing the facilities to keep inventory moving in and out, e-commerce facilities will employ 200 to 400 employees. Meanwhile, traditional warehouses would employ 10 people or fewer, Nash said.

“So the facilities themselves will yield a much greater ad valorem tax while improving local employment. It is a win all around for Fulton County,” Nash said.

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2017 looks HUGE This year, 2017, feels HUGE. Whereas the big concern last year was how well our economy could navigate around some rough global waters, this year will be more about how well GEOFF SMITH President Trump Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com will drive straight through them.

In thinking about how our economy will fare in 2017, I realize how “in the weeds” we were this time last year. We were concerned about China’s slowing growth, low oil prices and the Fed’s concern over low consumer confidence and manufacturing output. President Trump’s promises, if carried out, will shake the foundation of any and all of those details we were concerned about last year.

So, this year, all eyes will be on him, Congress and the policies they set in motion.

Immediately after being elected, the stock market jumped in volume, quickly launching the major stock indexes to their highest levels in history. Investors were confident in their understanding of what types of businesses will do well under President Trump. So they took money from safe-haven investments like bonds and mortgage-backed securities and put that money into specific stocks. This drove mortgage interest rates up by just under a full 1 percent (when bonds are bought in low volumes, mortgage rates tend to rise). The average 30-year fixed rate on a conventional mortgage started the year at about 4.25 percent, according to Mortgage News Daily.

It is always difficult to predict with accuracy how mortgage interest rates will move. But this year, investors seem confident in betting on the stock market. And the Fed raised its short-term interest rate last December by about

BUSINESSPOSTS

0.25 percent - just like it did in 2015.

But what’s different from 2015 is that Fed officials has signaled several more rate hikes throughout the year. A rise in that rate will push mortgage interest rates up further. If the stock market continues to rise, and the Fed continues to raise its rate, it is easy to imagine how mortgage interest rates could jump to near or over 5 percent by the end of the year. It is hard to imagine rates staying the same or dropping.

Having such low mortgage interest rates is a symptom of a sluggish economy. So in some ways, rising rates is a welcome sign. Back in 2008 was the first time in recorded history that rates dropped below 5 percent. So as we head into 2017, it is unfortunate for homebuyers, buy a welcome sign to see rates going up.

Consumer confidence is high, and for the first time in a long time, small business confidence is higher than it has been since 2004, according to the monthly National Federation of Independent Business Index of Small Business Optimism.

Despite any increase in interest rates, we could see a housing market on the move this year. The last five years have seen a steady decline in available housing inventory in the Atlanta market. A major reason for this is that the metro area’s economy is on fire, and people have been moving to the area faster than homebuilders could build homes. A healthy housing economy typically has around six months of inventory – meaning if no new houses came on the market, there would be no houses to sell in six months. Last year, inventory dropped to

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 17

3.5 percent. And when inventory is low, home prices rise at an unhealthy rate.

In some parts of the metro Atlanta area, home values jumped between 5 percent and 10 percent from 2015 to 2016.

The good news is that inventory seems to have bottomed out near that 3.5-month mark as a slew of new homes are finalizing construction. From January to October, Metro Atlanta ranked third in the country in the number of housing permits issued. Much of that inventory should be flooding the market early this year.

The fourth quarter of last year caught fire. According to an article published in the Atlanta Business Chronicle, 32 percent more homes were sold in November 2016 than November 2015.

Another interesting fact I heard is that just over 40 percent of all millennials currently live with their parents.

That is a huge market waiting to get into the game. If confidence keeps strong and inventory keeps coming in, we could see the most active housing market since before the Great Recession in 2008.

Geoff Smith gsmith@lendtheway.com 770-674-1433 Personal: NMLS#104587 Business: NMLS#70876 *The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of Assurance Financial Group

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Managing your to do list

Are you getting all your tasks and activities completed each day? Do you feel that you don’t have enough time to get all your work done? Are things DICK JONES slipping through Founder & President the cracks and Jones Simply Sales not getting done? Maintaining and managing a to-do list can help you get more done, and also help you focus on your top priorities.

It doesn’t matter if you are maintaining your to-do list manually or using technology, like Outlook. The important thing is that you have a process for identifying, prioritizing and documenting what you need to do each day. Start by creating a list of what you need to do. Include the time that is required to complete the task, and also the relative importance (like A, B, C).

Once you have a prioritized list, you’ll be able to focus on tasks that are most important.

Some tasks are a part of a bigger project or initiative, so you’ll want to make sure they are sequenced appropriately. Other tasks take less time to complete, and when completed can free up your time to focus on more important activities.

Check off the things you complete and how long it took. This will be helpful for planning recurring tasks.

You should also consider automating this process. There are hundreds of computer and mobile applications that can streamline this process and make it even more productive for you. Maintaining and managing your to-do list is a key to working more efficiently every day!

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18 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

BUSINESSBRIEFS

Cherry Street to expand Brewery will take over space next door

Upcoming events:

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

• Rick Tanner’s Grille and Bar 30th anniversary Jan. 24: 30 percent off • Spring Beer Fest April 29

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County’s own local brewery, Cherry Street Brewing Cooperative, will soon be expanding.

Located at 5817 South Vickery Street in Vickery Village, the business will be taking over the space next door that currently houses the Dojo, according to owner Nick Tanner. The Dojo will move into a bigger space on the other side of the village.

“It’s working out the best for both of us,” Tanner said.

Unfortunately, a flood at Vickery Village has closed some of the businesses and pushed the opening of the taproom expansion.

But that isn’t stopping Tanner from looking forward.

“The expansion will allow us to double our seating capacity for the taproom,” he said. “This will allow us to breathe a little bit and not feel so jammed tight there in certain times.”

More room will also mean more private parties, banquets and events.

One of the tastiest results of the expansion is that the brewery can expand its barrel-aging program, which Cherry Street is known for.

“We take bourbon and wine barrels and age our beer in them to acquire characteristics from the previous liquor or wine,” Tanner said.

Additionally, the brewery can take

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Cherry Street’s expansion will allow the business to increase production by 50 percent, as well as have more room for people to enjoy the beers. in more brewing tanks to increase production by about 50 percent.

Cherry Street has already begun releasing bottled beer into the market, but the expansion will allow the group to consistently produce bottles for the

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHTS

local liquor stores.

“It’s a really nice expansion for us,” Tanner said. “That little bit of space is actually allowing us to do a lot more.”

To learn more about Cherry Street, visit cherrystreetbrewing.com.

BUSINESSBRIEF Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists expands to Cumming

CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics comes to Johns Creek Business name: CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics Owner: Dr. Taz Bhatia About: CentreSpringMD + Pediatrics has a full team of board-certified providers who are conventionally-trained, but diagnose and treat patients by pulling from conventional, integrative, holistic and functional medicine to create the best customized treatment plans possible. The Johns Creek location is a full-service pediatric facility that also provides adult care.

Opened: Jan. 17, 2017 Address: 10220 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Phone: 404-814-9808 Website: www.centrespringmd.com

Southern Baked Pie Company opens in Alpharetta Business name: Southern Baked Pie Company Owner: Amanda Wilbanks About: With family recipes, Southern charm and an all-butter pie dough that melts in your mouth, Amanda Wilbanks and her team of bakers create gourmet sweet and savory pies for all of life’s special occasions and celebrations. Southern Baked Pie Company masterfully creates a variety of decadent flavors and specialty selections utilizing seasonal fresh fruit from local Georgia farmers and businesses. Pies come in a variety of sizes including: whole pies, petite pies, and bite-size tassies.

Opened: Nov. 18, 2016 Address: 2685 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 130, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Phone: 678-254-0598 Website: www.southernbakedpie.com

CUMMING, Ga. — Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists doctors and its staff are expanding their services to Forsyth County.

A new location has opened at 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 310, in Cumming.

This will mark the second location for Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists. The first is at 3400 Old HARLEY Milton Parkway, Suite 500, Building A in Alpharetta.

Dr. Brian Harley and his team treat sports medicine patients and those who suffer from ankle and foot fractures, conditions or deformities as well as flat feet, high arches, heel and arch pain, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, hammertoes and arthritis. Some patients require conservative options, while others need to undergo surgical procedures.

Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists specializes in minimally invasive procedures and is at the forefront of the latest technologies in surgery that promote healing, shorten recovery times, decreased pain and a return of the patients to regular activities as soon as possible.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 19

THE CRUISE GIVEAWAY IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! 3rd Annual

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20 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com Herald | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR

“I, TOO, AM AMERICAN”

Join for the free opening reception of “I, Too, Am American,” a multimedia exhibition by local artists exploring the experience of being black in America. There will be live music and opportunities to discuss the works with the artists. The reception will be held Saturday, Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m. at the Johns Creek Art Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek. For more information, visit johnscreekarts.org.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton. com/Calendar.

EVENTS: ROSWELL RESTAURANT WEEK

Sample the best culinary experiences that Roswell’s restaurants have to offer.

Enjoy a diverse selection of food from dozens of local restaurants that will all have special chef-driven prix fixe menus for one week only. See a full list of participating restaurants online.

Restaurant week will span Jan. 23-Feb. 1 and will include local restaurants across Roswell. For more information, including menus and locations, visit roswellrw.com.

INTERNATIONAL FILM NIGHT

What: Enjoy a free showing of “Amour,” a 2012 French romantic drama following the lives of an octogenarian couple whose bond is tested when one of them has a stroke. Popcorn and drinks will be provided.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 5 p.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov/parkplace or 678-512-3430

FAMILY TO FAMILY

What: This free 11 session course offered to family and friends who have a loved one with a mental illness and is designed to help people understand and support their loved ones while maintaining their own sense of wellbeing.

When: Monday, Jan. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Creekside United Methodist Church, 673 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming More info: 678-947-6156

What: The public is invited to provide input regarding revitalization, economic development and transportation opportunities along Holcomb Bridge Road, from Highway 9 to the Gwinnet County line.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: 770-594-6288

JC CHAMBER MEMBER GALA

What: Perimeter School invites everyone to learn from best-selling author and leading parenting authority, Dr. Tim Elmore, about common parenting mistakes and how to successfully prepare children for their lives.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Perimeter Church, 9500 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

TOUR OF INDEPENDENT FILMAKERS

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:

What: Enjoy a showing of “Mind/Game: The Unquiet Journey of Chamique Holdsclaw,” which follows the journey of “the female Michael Jordon” as she emerges as a mental health advocate.

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, 7-10 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

DISNEY’S PETER PAN JR.

What: Fly away to Neverland with Peter and the Darling children in an adaptation of Disney’s animated film presented by the Roswell Youth Theater.

When: Jan. 27, 7 p.m.; Jan. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

LIBRARY EVENTS:

FINE ARTS ALLIANCE RECEPTION

What: Celebrate the opening of the Roswell Fine Arts Alliance’s fourth annual Juried Invitational Show with this opening reception. James Taylor, a nationally-known artist, is the jurist.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

Where: 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: rfaa.org

UNITY CONCERT

What: Hear the voices of choirs from several area churches as they perform their favorite selections in this free concert presented by the Roswell Roots Festival, with special guest The Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 3-5 p.m.

Where: Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 888 Zion Circle, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com or 770-6413705

ROSWELL LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: The Friends of the Roswell Library will be selling books, DVDs and CDs. All proceeds will go directly to the library for materials and community programs.

When: Jan. 26-28, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Jan 29, 2-5:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross Street, Roswell More info: forl.net

NORTHEAST SPRUILL OAKS LIBRARY BOOK SALE What: A wide range of children’s, teen and adult fiction a variety of media will be on sale. A “Members Only Preview Sale” will be held Thursday, Jan. 26, 1-5 p.m. Volunteers are needed.

When: Jan. 27-29, times vary Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info: afpls.org or 770-360-8820

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS PROCESS PRESENTATION

HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD REVITALIZATION

What: The Johns Creek Chamber will be holding its 2017 Chamber Member Appreciation Gala - The Big Bash with cocktails, dinner and dancing.

Entertainment provided by the Infinity Show Band.

When: Friday, Feb. 3, 6-11 p.m.

Where: Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek Cost: Tickets start at $150 More info and tickets: bit.ly/2hEANvm or 770-495-0545

PARENTING DISCUSSION

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: $12 More info and tickets: lkelley@ roswellgov.com or 770-641-3987

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: GEORGE GRAY

What: Come see the works of lifetime artist and Johns Creek resident George Gray. Gray has spent over 40 years of photo retouching by hand.

When: Jan. 2-30, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: behance.net/georgegray

VALENTINE’S DAY HARP CONCERT

What: Get in the mood and celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a harp concert presented by Lisa Handman. All ages are welcome to this free concert.

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: michael.salpeter@ fultoncountyga.gov or 404-613-6735

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: GREG FERGUSON What: “Bearing Witness” The Photography of Greg Ferguson will showcase Ferguson’s award-winning photography of the natural world.

When: Through March 31, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: gregferguson.us.com or 770594-6232

What: An independent consultant from College Process Consulting will present a free program designed for high school students and their parents on navigating the college admissions process.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Where: Northeast Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info and registration: laura. hoefener@fultoncountyga.gov or 770360-8820

BADGER & FOX BOOK CLUB

What: Children ages 9-12 are invited to participate in this book club to discuss books and play team trivia. Snacks are included in the meetings and copies of the books are reserved at the front desk.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: liane.wagner@ fultoncountyga.gov

REFLECTIONS ON THE HOLOCAUST

What: In honor of Germany: Day of Remembrance for Victims of Nazism, Dr. Eugen Schoenfeld, a survivor of the concentration camps, will discuss his life before, during and after the holocaust.

When: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-6735

VISION BOARD PARTY

What: Learn about vision boards and the benefits of creating one.

Pizza, snacks and refreshments will be provided. This workshop is for teenagers only and registration is required.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info: afpls.org

CHINESE ASTROLOGY

What: Learn about the system of Chinese Astrology and the differences from Western Astrology.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: milton.branch@ fultoncountyga.gov or 404-613-4402

PET ADOPTIONS:

FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER What: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd.

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: BOOTH BROTHERS

What: Come see the award-winning Southern Gospel music trio, the Booth Brothers, live in concert as they stop by Georgia in their nation-wide tour.

When: Saturday, Jan. 28, 6 p.m.

Where: Elizabeth Baptist Church, 315 Kurtz Road, Marietta More info and tickets: 770-617-0359

CALENDAR

NorthFulton.com ForsythHerald.com | Alpharetta-Roswell | Forsyth Herald | January 26, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA:

Enjoy free history on Feb. 5

Years ago, back in the previous millennium (as my kids put it), when I was but a young ‘un, there was a phrase you’d hear from time to time.

It was just three words, but whenSTEVE HUDSON ever they were Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net spoken, you could be sure folks would perk up their ears and listen.

The words were: “the people’s price.”

Back in that long-ago day (well, it wasn’t really that long ago), “the people’s price” was a way of saying that something was free. No charge.

Gratis.

In other words, it didn’t cost anything.

Now, let’s be honest here. Stuff that’s really and truly free was pretty rare then and is pretty rare these days, too. And in many cases, when something’s free, you get what you paid for.

But not always. Once in a while a real bargain comes along, and for folks who enjoy not only bargains but also exploring the richness of Georgia’s historic sites, there’s a truly outstandingly good deal coming up on Sunday, Feb. 5.

The occasion?

It’s “Super Museum Sunday,” part of the Georgia Historical Society’s Georgia History Festival.

So you aren’t familiar with the Georgia History Festival? Neither was I. According to georgiahistoryfestival. org, the official website of the Georgia History Festival, the festival “is the signature K-12 educational program of the Georgia Historical Society.”

It includes a wide range of public programs, exhibits, in-school events and educational resources designed to “bring history to life for students of all ages and encourage Georgians to explore the richness and diversity of our state’s past.”

On Super Museum Sunday, the State Parks and Historic Sites Division of Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources will waive the usual admission fees at many of the state’s historic sites and will be offering free admission. It’s a see-for-free opportunity that is definitely not to be missed.

What sorts of experiences await you on that people’s price day?

“Visitors can walk in the footsteps of Civil War and Revolutionary War soldiers, tour FDR’s modest cottage,

Feb. 5 is “Super Museum Sunday” where numerous historical sites will offer free admission, including The Dahlonega Gold Museum. explore plantations, climb to the top of an Indian mound and experience more during this annual event,” according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

It won’t be hard to find a place to visit, either, as participating sites are scattered across the state from the mountains down to the coast. Some of these historic sites are generally closed on Sundays, but they’ll be open for “Super Museum Sunday.” Here’s a list of participating sites, along with their hours of operation that day: • Chief Vann House Historic Site (Chatsworth) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site (Dahlonega) – 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

• Fort King George Historic Site (Darien) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Fort McAllister State Park (Richmond Hill) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Fort Morris Historic Site (Midway) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site (Brunswick) — 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Jarrell Plantation Historic Site (Juliette) – Noon – 4 p.m.

• Kolomoki Mounds State Park (Blakely) — 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Lawton Museum at Magnolia Springs State Park (Millen) – 9 a.m.

– 5 p.m.

• Liberty Hall at A.H. Stephens State Park (Crawfordville) — 9 – 5 p.m.

• New Echota Historic Site (Calhoun) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site (Warm Springs) – 9 a.m.

- 4:45 p.m.

• Travelers Rest Historic Site (Toccoa) — 9 – 5 p.m.

• Wormsloe Historic Site (Savannah) – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

There’s no doubt about it. Super Museum Sunday offers an outstanding opportunity for you to take a little road trip, visit one of Georgia’s great historic sites and have a great time while learning about our state’s history too – for free! I’m planning to check out several of the sites myself, and I hope I’ll see you there.

To learn more about the Georgia History Festival and related events and activities, visit GeorgiaHistoryFestival. org.

Now is a perfect time of year to explore the great hiking trails along the Chattahoochee River. Learn about these trails in Steve Hudson’s book HIKING THE HOOCH, a complete guide to the incredible hiking opportunities awaiting you within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Check out HIKING THE HOOCH at local outfitters, on Amazon, or at www. chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

22 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017

Sponsored Section

A Homecoming: Dr. Brent Taylor returns to Alpharetta and brings excellence back home!

Family, friends and the communities of north Atlanta are celebrating as Dr. Brent Taylor and his family have returned home to where they grew up and are starting a first-class dermatology, Mohs surgery and vein care practice.

Brent grew up in Roswell and attended Marist School where he was valedictorian. His wife Ashley was born and raised in Alpharetta and graduated from Milton High School. Together the Taylors are raising two rambunctious boys, Beckett 3, and Gavin 1.

After completing twelve years of higher education, Dr. Taylor and his family explored life in Florida. He practiced as the Mohs surgeon at University of Florida in Gainesville and worked in the busiest private practice in Jacksonville, Florida. The desire to be with family and friends drew Dr. Taylor and his family home to north Atlanta. They are opening a practice in Alpharetta to serve the community that has for so long supported them.

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say the least. He graduated from Harvard College in 3 years and attended Vanderbilt School of Medicine on a full, merit-based scholarship. He received his first choices for post-graduate training and was able to work with renowned Mohs surgeons during both his residency at the Medical University of South Carolina and during his ACGME accredited fellowship in procedural dermatology at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California. He is double-boarded, board certified in dermatology and certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in vein care.

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Congratulations to Dr. Taylor and Premier Dermatology!

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Ask Pam, your local in senior home care since 2006 Q; My husband was a veteran and I heard that there are healthcare benefits for surviving spouses. Is this something Senior Helpers can assist me with?

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Q; My mother has been living in our guest suite in the basement and she needs more help! She has been up wandering at night and I’m nervous for her to be alone downstairs. Do you have caregivers that can help overnight?

-Wendy Pam; Yes mam! Senior Helpers offers awake overnight shifts and we would love to come and take care of your Mother.

Senior Helpers of Alpharetta is a Family Owned & Managed Company that has been helping families since 2006. Senior Helpers is your Hometown solution for Private Home Care and Transportation.

Senior Helpers has specially trained

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Senior Helpers is Licensed in the State of Georgia and all employees are bonded/ HODGSON licensed and insured and have passed all background checks.

Call Senior Helpers today to learn more about keeping your loved one active and engaged at 770-442-2154.

Or visit Senior Helpers online at Www. seniorhelpers.com/northatlanta Pam Hodgson owns Senior Helpers with her adult children, Elizabeth Jackson, Greg Rosinski and Matt Fredenberg. Having lived in North Fulton for the past 30 years, Pam’s passion is helping families care for their loved ones. Pam attends Alpharetta United Methodist Church and enjoys time with her grandchildren.

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 23

Now Accepting Patients Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

N. Atlanta Welcomes Dr. Brent Taylor Insist on the BEST Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care. His education and work experience include: • Marist School – Valedictorian • Harvard College – Bachelor of Arts in Biochemical Sciences Graduated in 3 years Magna Cum Laude • Vanderbilt School of Medicine – Doctorate of Medicine Attended on a Full, Merit-Based Scholarship • Medical University of South Carolina – Dermatology Residency; Chief Resident • ACGME-Accredited Fellowship in Mohs surgery, Procedural Dermatology, and Vein Care at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California.

Dr. Taylor has performed thousands of Mohs surgeries and reconstructions, dermatologic surgeries and procedures while in private practice in Florida where local and even international patients have sought him out for the best care. He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables. He now brings his highly sought after expertise back home to Alpharetta with the opening of Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta! Now Accepting Patients.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Taylor Today.

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Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

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24 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

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“The convenience of the location and the fact that you are near Avalon, which Delos and Margaret Knight are longis a wonderful place for entertainment, time residents of Alpharetta and have restaurants, shopping and it is right around the corner. Guess What? We can decided to downsize their home and move into Village Park of Alpharetta. even walk there from Village Park and enjoy it more often.” Village Park is the NEXT-LEVEL SENIOR LIVING community currently under construction on the corner of Webb Bridge Road and Morris Road. The community plans to open in late Spring of 2017 and currently taking reservations. Call Carla Breakwell at 678-740-3499 for more information or go to villageparkseniorliving.com.

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EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 25

Longleaf Communities Exquisite Active Adult Living

By Kathy Rice Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Longleaf Communities feature spectacular homes providing active adults with convenient, easy living. Your new Longleaf home relieves you of all exterior maintenance, including yard work and landscaping, affording you the freedom to travel knowing your home will be cared for.

Longleaf homes feature two downstairs bedrooms and two full baths with zero entry showers or tubs. You can customize your new home with a beautiful selection of tile or hardwood floors, fireplaces, your choice of countertop surfaces and other additions. You also have the option to have us finish the upstairs and basement of your new home.

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Our three locations Village Green at East Cobb, Battle Park and Woodstock are open for tours daily.

For more information or to set up a private tour you may contact Kathy Rice with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 678-697-4984 or KathyRice@AtlantaFineHomes.com

NEW ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES

When a rash becomes serious

By May River Dermatology A rash is not a specific diagnosis but describes the skin’s appearance when inflamed, scaly, discolored or in an otherwise less than healthy state. Many times over-thecounter medications will resolve the issue. But, when in doubt, have your rash checked out.

A less common condition, psoriasis, could be the culprit.

An autoimmune disease, psoriasis causes raised, red, scaly patches to appear on the skin, affecting 125 million people – or two to three percent of the population.

The disease, typically seen on the outside of the elbows or knees, and the scalp, can also appear on other areas of the body.

Psoriasis and Children Symptoms in children include severe scaling of the scalp, diaper dermatitis, red and scaly patches on the trunk and extremities as well as pitting and discoloration of the nails. One-third to one-half of all young people with psoriasis may experience a flare-up two to six weeks after an earache, strep throat, bronchitis, tonsillitis or a respiratory infection.

“The clinical spectrum of psoriasis can vary from few patches on elbows and knees to involving the whole body and the joints,” said May River dermatologist Dr. Paola Bonaccorsi M.D. Ph.D. “More and more we are learning that chronic inflammation associated with psoriasis predispose to heart disease and other systemic problems.

May River Dermatology Johns Creek treats most diseases of the skin, hair and nails as well as diagnosis and management of skin cancer. The practice, located at 10160 Medlock Bridge Road is now accepting new patients. For more information please call 470-282-5729 or visit www.mayriverdermatology.com

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LONGLEAFSOUTH.COM Marketing and Sales by Atlanta FIne Homes Sotheby’s International Realty - 770.442.7300. © All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to change without notice.

26 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Milton named second safest city in Georgia Violent, property crimes some of lowest in state

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga.— Milton was ranked the second safest city in Georgia for 2017 according to SafeWise, a home security and safety resource, in its annual list.

Milton’s latest ranking shows it moving up two spots from fourth in 2016.

Using FBI crime data and a population threshold from 2015 — the most recent year of full crime statistics — the rankings are compiled via a calculation of the number of violent crimes and property crimes per 1,000 residents.

Only cities with a population greater than 4,000 were considered.

According to the data, there were 0.32 violent crimes, which include aggravated assault, murder, rape and robbery, per 1,000 residents in Milton in 2015. Property crimes, including burglary, arson, larceny-theft and motor vehicle theft, were 9.85 for every 1,000 citizens.

Police Chief and City Manager Steven Krokoff said he is pleased with Milton’s low crime numbers, but as expected, he would like to see them

Safest Cities GA Milton was named the second safest city in Georgia for 2017 in SafeWise’s annual list.

even lower.

“First and foremost it means we need to do just a bit better,” he said, “but we are pleased we went up two spots.”

Krokoff attributes Milton’s low crime numbers to the police, low poverty, great schools, the Milton community and community initiatives, such as Milton Police and Citizens Together (MPACT).

“We have low poverty, great schools, a fantastic police force and an incredibly supportive community,” Krokoff said. “The MPACT program provides a point of contact for each zone [within the city] with an officer being assigned to sixteen areas around the city. The officers assigned to that area are able to build a relationship with the commu-

nity. Those who may have been hesitant to contact police in the past have now built a rapport with that officer.”

According to Krokoff, Milton’s number of violent and property crimes have dropped steadily over the past few years, and the aim is to continue that decline.

“We hope to reduce crime by 5 percent in 2017,” he said. “We also are looking to significantly decrease prop-

erty crime.”

Krokoff said the city is “excited and cautiously optimistic” that the support of the community, the MPACT program and incoming police chief Rich Austin will continue a downward trend in Milton crime.

Nearby Johns Creek was named the safest city in Georgia. Also in North Fulton, Roswell was ranked 14th and Alpharetta 18th on the list.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 27

Dance where professionals have trained for the past 38 years‌

Registration for January classes is NOW OPEN! -Ballet-Tap-Jazz-Kinderdance-Modern-Hip Hop-Acrobatics-Pointe-Aerial Silks-Musical TheatreAges 2 Years Thru Adults Beginner Thru Professional Levels

Cameron Birts, Age 5

Cameron at the University of the Arts

Cameron Birts started training at the Tolbert-Yilmaz School of Dance in 2006, where he became a member of the Roswell Dance Theatre. As he developed as a dancer, he received several scholarships to well-known summer programs, Pittsburgh Ballet, Harid Conservatory, Washington Ballet, Alabama Dance Theatre, SEDAC, and School of the American Ballet. Cameron also expanded his choreography experience through Mary Lynn Taylor’s ballet classes and her community service project HUGS. Cameron submitted three pieces of choreography to the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (SERBA), one of which was selected to represent the Southeast Region at the National Festival in Montreal, Canada. Cameron had several lead roles as a member of the Roswell Dance Theatre and the Pre-Professional Dance Company, the most prized of those being the Prince in Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin in Aladdin, and Cavalier in The Nutcracker.

Cameron made the decision to pursue his degree and continue his training before entering a professional arena. He received a full scholarship to The University of the Arts (UArts) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While attending UArts, Cameron has participated in the independent study with Pennsylvania Ballet for three years. This past summer Cameron was one of 15 students selected to go to Paris, France to participate in a program at the Centre National de la Danse (National Center of Dance).

Currently, Cameron is in Aix-en-Provence, France at Ballet Preljocaj working with their apprenticeship program. Cameron will return to UArts the second week of February to finish his degree and begin auditioning for professional companies.

Nancy Tolbert-Yilmaz Founder, Artistic Director

Mary Lynn Taylor Associate Director

Home of the Roswell Dance Theatre

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10400-D Alpharetta Street, Roswell, GA 30075

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Robert Gosnell Ballet Master

28 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Roswell celebrates art of George Gray Retiree named January spotlight artist

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Retirement has not once slowed down local artist George Gray.

The Roswell Cultural Arts Center held a reception Jan. 16 celebrating the 82-year-old artist and his paintings, which will continue to hang in the lobby for the rest of January. The reception was complete with live background music by local high school jazz band The Best Friedkins.

According to Gray’s daughter, Donna Clayton, this is the first time that he’s had an exhibit dedicated solely to his works, despite a lifetime in the art world.

Gray was previously a photo retoucher working in New York for 40 years, before technology like Photoshop was available. He did his work by hand, using tools and techniques like airbrushes, bleaches and dye transfers.

Although he no longer continues this line of work, Gray has transferred his

JULIA GROCHOWSKI/HERALD

From left, Barbara Grimm, Kathleen Thorton and John Grimm enjoy some of George Gray’s art. skills from the job to his art.

“The funny thing about being a photo retoucher is that I’m obsessed with details. I love to paint details,” Gray said. “I’m criticized often for this,

because many artists like to paint fast and obscure detail, just to get an image or feeling. I do the opposite.”

See GRAY, Page 29

JULIA GROCHOWSKI/HERALD

Donna Clayton, left, helps George Gray sell prints of his artwork.

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Gray:

COMMUNITY

Continued from Page 28 Most of Gray’s paintings are realistic and focus on nature. Some of the crowd’s favorites from Monday’s reception were depictions of birds, flowers and landscapes.

“There’s no story to tell with most of my paintings. A lot of people paint with an idea of what they want to show you. I just want to paint the beauty,” Gray said. “I love to see things that I can reproduce as well as or better than nature.”

Gray added that he paints what he wants to remember and that he prefers the sense of accomplishment he gets from meticulously painting a subject rather than photographing it.

Gray retired from photo retouching 20 years ago and has since moved to Johns Creek, where he found a burst of creativity and art. Just two years ago, Gray started incorporating colored pencils as a medium in his work after he took a class at the Johns Creek Art Society.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 29

“I fell in love with the colored pencil, because it went well with drawing birds. And from there, I started painting a lot of birds,” Gray said.

He has since switched to painting mainly with watercolors and then layering colored pencil on top for the finishing touches.

“The paintings I do now are about 90 percent watercolor and 10 percent pencil,” Gray said. “That technique gives me some more detail and edge control in the paintings.”

Gray’s paintings will be on display for the rest of the month at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, until the new spotlight artist is announced in February. They spotlight other local artists typically every other month.

“There’s so many local artists like [Gray] and they have these pieces in their garage or their storage, but not in a gallery,” said Donna Clayton, the cultural arts coordinator for the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. “This is a great outlet for local talent to be exposed to a broad audience.”

To learn more about Gray and his paintings, visit behance.net/ georgegray.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 31

November Eagle Scouts for the Northern Ridge District NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, including the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, has announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review on Nov. 28, 2016.

These are Scouts who passed their Eagle Board of Reviews, held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Andrew Gerhardstein, of Troop 2143, sponsored by John’s Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the design construction of a play fortress at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Bradley Arms, from Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. His project was the design and construction of an arbor with a swing for Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Ryan Williams, from Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church. His project was the design and construction of a new fire pit ring, complete with a drainage system and a wood pile rack.

Kyle Nichols, from Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. His project was the design and construction of a sod house for Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Vikram Ruppa-Kasani, from Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church. His project was the collection of over 2000 books to supply two libraries in Ghana, Africa. He also collected enough money to ship these books to their destination.

Adam Puckett, from Troop 430, sponsored by St. David’s Episcopal Church. His project was the enhancement of the Patio at Jefford’s Hall at St. David’s Episcopal Church. This included building two Leopold Benches and a new pathway to the patio.

Chason Thompson, from Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. His project was the design and construction of a recycling cart, which included five different slots for different recyclable materials, for the Chattahoochee Nature Center.

The newest Eagle Scouts in the top row, from left, are Andrew Gerhardstein, Bradley Arms, Ryan Williams and Kyle Nichols. Standing in the bottom row are Vikram Ruppa-Kasani, Adam Puckett and Chason Thompson.

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32 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Alpharetta’s Bradon Barron takes a shot. Barron scored 12 points and had four assists, two steals and a block last Saturday against Cambridge

Alpharetta, Cambridge duke it out in thriller Raiders allow late comeback, hold on for 69-66 win

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Saturday’s matchup between Alpharetta and Cambridge seemed to have it all. A statistical favorite, Alpharetta, looked to get an important win to keep its drive for a No. 1 seed in the region tournament intact.

A statistical underdog, Cambridge sought an upset win with at home with a high-energy crowd loudly in support.

The game also featured a standout offensive performance, a late comeback and a last second shot to force overtime. In what was perhaps the most exciting games in Region 7-AAAAAA this season, Alpharetta prevailed over Cambridge, 69-66.

In a back-and-forth contest, Alpharetta opened the largest lead any team saw throughout the game, seven points, midway through the fourth quarter. But Cambridge would chip away at the lead, and with a minute and a half remaining, two free throws from the Bears’ Bryce Boutelle cut the Raiders’ lead to 66-62.

Cambridge sophomore Kamar Robertson was fouled on the Bears’ ensuing

possession and went to the line for two shots. He made the first and missed the second, but Cambridge gathered in the rebound as less than 30 ticks remained on the clock.

The Cambridge student section, which earlier had chanted “We want Boyea,” got its wish when a pass found Bears’ senior Jackson Boyea beyond the arc. In a 3-point attempt that would have tied the game, Boyea’s shot went in and out.

The Raider’s marched down the court where Ellis Merriweather was fouled. Merriweather had a remarkable game for the Raiders, scoring 37 points with nine rebounds and a steal.

Merriweather, who was 15-22 from the free-throw line, sunk both shots to give Alpharetta a five-point lead.

Cambridge responded quickly with a 3-pointer from Noah Lucas to cut the lead to 68-66 with six seconds remaining. Cambridge drew a foul on the inbounds pass and Marcus Hill would make the second of his free throws, making Alpharetta’s lead 69-66 with 4.6 seconds left.

Kamar Robertson, who has had a highly impactful season as a sopho-

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Ellis Merriweather (32) had a standout performance against Cambridge, scoring 37 points in the Raiders’ 69-66 win. more for Cambridge, came down the court and fired a 3-point attempt as time expired.

With the entirety of the arena holding its breath, Robertson’s shot that would have sent the game into overtime, bounced off the back of the rim and backboard to the court.

Robertson scored 21 points for the Bears and collected two rebounds, an assist and a steal. Kyler Ingran had six points, seven rebounds and a block.

Boyea finished the game with 14 points and four rebounds.

For Alpharetta, Merriweather’s 37 points led the way, followed by sophomore Brandon Barron who scored 12 points with three rebounds, four

assists, two steals and a block.

With the win, the Raiders improved to 12-1 in region play and remained atop the Region 7-AAAAAA standings.

Cambridge fell to 8-4 and sits fourth in the standings.

With just three region games remaining, Alpharetta can clinch the regular season region championship this week with a win and a Pope loss.

Alpharetta has games against Chattahoochee, North Atlanta and Northview remaining.

Cambridge has four games remaining until the region tournament. The Bears will face North Atlanta, Johns Creek and Centennial on the road and face Dunwoody at home.

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 33

Lady Titans leave no doubt against Chattahoochee Northview dominates Lady Cougars, 68-43

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — On paper, last Friday’s matchup between region rivals Chattahoochee and Northview looked to feature a close contest, but reality would see the Lady Titans dominate to remain undefeated in region play.

Eight Titans scored in the win and the Northview defense forced eight steals and 11 blocks.

“I thought we played incredibly on defense,” said Northview head coach Chris Yarbrough. “We held a senior-laden team to just 43 points with a lot of those points coming late.”

“Offensively we are really starting to get going. I was hoping we could continue it against a better team (Chattahoochee) and we really did tonight.”

Yarbrough said much of the Titans’ success could be attribute to the play inside the paint as Northview’s Maya Richards and Chattahoochee’s Alayna Ford battled under the net throughout the game.

“We really took advantage inside,” said Yarbrough. “Maya Richards looked amazing tonight against a senior (Ford) who is probably going to play some college basketball. She really dominated the paint and crashed the glass and was just a huge lift for us.”

Richards had a standout performance, scoring 18 points with seven rebounds, five blocks, two steals and an assist.

Shannon Titus scored 11 with four blocks, three steals, three rebounds and two assists, and Ashlee Austin also put up 10 points for Northview.

Northview (17-3, 11-0) has scored an average of 71 points per game over its past three contests.

Chattahoochee (14-4, 7-3) was led in scoring by Alayna Ford who scored 13 points and gathered in 12 rebounds.

Sienna Gore scored 11 with four rebounds.

After a first quarter in which both teams seemed to be feeling one another out, Northview held on to a 13-7 lead.

But in the second quarter, Northview would set the tone for the rest of the game with stout defense and efficient scoring.

Northview sophomore Makayla Davis entered the game early in the second quarter and hit three straight 3-pointers. Davis’ threes would be her only points of the game, but they

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Northview’s Maya Richards (31) blocks a pass in the paint. Richards led Northview in scoring with 18 points with seven rebounds, five blocks, two steals and an assist.

resulted in a palpable spark along the Northview bench that lasted for the remainder of the game.

The Lady Titans opened a double-digit lead in the second quarter, and with solid defense and scoring from the majority of the bench, would cruise to a 68-43 victory.

Yarbrough said he hopes his team will continue to dominate both sides of the ball as the Lady Titans face just five more regular season region games before the region tournament begins in the second week of February.

“I think we are going to just keep doing what we have been doing. We still have some tough games like Johns Creek next week and Alpharetta. We struggled with Alpharetta a few weeks ago and that’s going to be one of the final games before the region tournament, and we have to be sure we can match that intensity level every night.

We can go 16-0 in the regular season and it doesn’t mean anything. We have to make sure we are playing well in the region tournament as well to get that seeding that we want.”

SPORTS

34 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Teammates, friends and All-Americans: St. Francis’ Dodson, Kushkituah named McDonald’s All-Americans

By JOE PARKER Joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Only one school will be sending two players to the girls McDonald’s All-American Game this year — St. Francis.

Seniors Maya Dodson and Kasiyahna Kushkituah were both named McDonald’s All-Americans and will play their final game together on the national stage at the McDonald’s All-American game on March 29 in Chicago’s United Center.

Dodson and Kushkituah become the second and third St. Francis players to earn the accolade in the past two years after boys player Kobi Simmons was named All-American for 2016.

Not only do Dodson and Kushkituah share the accolade as teammates, they also share it as close friends.

“I’ve known Kasi since sophomore year and we have been best friends,” Dodson said. “It’s awesome to have someone you know that works hard and who you work hard with to accomplish something they deserve. It’s going to be awesome to be out there playing on the same team just like in high school.”

Kushkituah said, “I am very excited to be playing with Maya. Being named All-Americans was a goal we both had, so the fact that we were able to accomplish that together means so much to me. She is one of my best friends and I love spending time with her on and off the court.”

Being named an All-American is not the first major award for either player. Dodson, a Stanford commit, played for Team USA’s U17 National Team last summer, was named to the 2015 All-State team and was named to the Class 6-A All-Region team in 2014 and 2015. Kushkituah was named to the 2016 All-Georgia team, was the 2015 All-North Fulton Basketball Player of the Year and was on the 2016 Naismith Trophy watch list. Kushkituah has committed to the University of Tennessee.

Though many accolades proceeded it, Dodson said her nomination to the All-American team was a childhood dream come true.

“It’s an honor. I remember watching the All-American game when I was younger and thinking how cool it was to be in high school and to be named one the best players in the country and have the opportunity to play with the best in the country.”

Kushkituah said she was ecstatic to reach her goal of being named to the team.

“I’ve seen all these other girls I’ve known become

St. Francis seniors Maya Dodson (left) and Kasiyahna Kushkituah (right) are joined by St. Francis head coach Aisha Kennedy after being named McDonald’s All-Americans. The teammates will play in the All-American Game March 29 in Chicago’s United Center.

All-Americans, and I wanted to accomplish that too. In the beginning of the season I made that a top goal and I worked very hard for it,” she said.

With St. Francis, Dodson is approaching 1,000 career points at the varsity level. She has compiled over 500 rebounds, 143 steals and 173 blocks. Kushkituah has 700 career rebounds and has scored 1,033 points.

Not only will the St. Francis’ teammates have one another to share in the pageantry of the All-American game — both players will be playing with former AAU teammates and Kushkituah will be joining three fellow Tennessee commits.

For both players, it will be the final chance to play on the same team before they part ways for their respective colleges, and both said they are thrilled for the opportunity.

The All-American game will be televised live on ESPN March 29.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 35

November Eagle Scouts for the Northern Ridge District NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, including the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, has announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review on Nov. 28, 2016.

These are Scouts who passed their Eagle Board of Reviews, held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Benjamin Fagg, from Crew 347, sponsored by Milton Ward of Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, whose project the instituting a drive to register individuals for the National Bone Marrow Registry. Benjamin overshot his goal and was able to sign up 55 individuals.

John O’Donovan, from Troop 431, sponsored by Roswell United Methodist Church. His project was the design and construction of a play boat and a buddy bench for Mountain Park Elementary School.

Kenneth Hirschi Jr., from Crew 347, sponsored by Milton Ward of Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. His project was the design and construction of 4 wooden benches for the Cross Country Trail at Cambridge High School.

Spencer Keegan, from Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church. His project was the creation of a walking trail in memory of former teacher at Summit Hill Elementary School.

Patrick Czabala, of Troop 1134, sponsored by St. Peter Chanel Catholic Old? Church whoseDiscolored? project erecting a 20foot flag pole with solar lighting for the Cracked?

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Christopher Pinkus, from Troop 143, sponsored by John’s Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the design and construction of a bouldering wall at Perimeter Church.

Paul Jacobsen, from Troop 841, sponsored by St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of a challenge wall and crawling tunnel for St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.

Adam Prince, from Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church. His project was the design and construction of corn hole games for the Alpharetta Post of the American Legion.

Connor Perkins, from Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church. His project was design and construction of an outdoor lunch area that including the construction of five picnic tables, a rock border and planting of some flowers for Legacy Community Academy.

Kaelan Nurse, from Troop 206, sponsored by Zion Missionary Baptist Church. His project was the design and construction of three adjustable shelving units for Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

In the top row, from left, stand the newest Eagle Scouts, Benjamin Fagg, John O’Donovan, Kenneth Hirschi Jr., Spencer Keegan and Patrick Czabala.

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36 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Arrests: 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 2, 2017 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, February 27, 2017 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Continued from Page 2 was arrested Jan. 10 on Morrison Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and speeding. ►► Olaniyi O. Odegbaro, 36, of Stonegrove Overlook, Johns Creek, was

arrested Jan. 15 on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek for possession of marijuana and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Jose Vicente Paris II, 27, of Morton Creek Circle, Johns Creek, was arrested Jan. 14 on Jones Bridge Road in Johns Creek for possession of marijuana, possession of drug related items, expired license and expired tag.

CITY OF ROSWELL NOTICE OF OPENING AND CLOSING DATES FOR CANDIDATES TO QUALIFY FOR MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 7, 2017

a. PH-17-05 Unified Development Code Text Amendments Consideration of amendments to Unified Development Code Section 2.6 Signs, to increase the maximum allowable wall sign area associated with Industrial and Office Parks from 156 to 240 square feet as well as revisions to Downtown Parking Regulations.

Any qualified elector desiring to run for Mayor of the City of Roswell or Roswell City Council posts Four, Five or Six in the general election to be held on November 7, 2017, must file for candidacy for the desired position at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Monday through Friday from 8:30 until 4:30, August 21 until August 25. Qualifying fee for candidacy is as follows:

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 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

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Transit:

Continued from Page 14 downtown from the current centralized area of two to three blocks.

“Transit works, but it takes commitment and it takes time,” he said “But in the end, every city is competing. And there was to be a willingness to compromise for the greater good. That’s the hardest part.”

So Plano’s story has been its transformation from a bedroom community.

“You build mass transit for the people who are coming, not for those who are there,” LaRosiliere said. “So the discussion of [transit] as being inefficient and costly is inherently an inaccurate discussion to bring up.

“By design it should be. If 10 people are here today, and you know 1,000 are coming, you plan for the 1,000,” LaRosiliere said. “So that’s the challenge. You are building for 20 years out and the people here are voting tomorrow.”

(Next week: What did the officials making the trip discover?)

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 raudulently multiple time over the past two weeks.

The man told police that since Dec. 30, 2016, he had received several letters about credit cards that he did not apply for that were opened under his name. Someone had used his name, birthday, address and Social Security number to do so.

The man had been out for the holidays and had not received the letters until he returned home Jan. 10.

The man called major credit companies to alert them to the fraudulent

DEATH NOTICES Randall Allan Atkins, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Alta Catherine Bagwell, 92, of Cumming, passed away January 12, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Douglas Roney Bearden, 76, of Cumming, passed away January 16, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Donald Anthony Cottongim, 82, of Cumming, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

COMMUNITY

Complex: Continued from Page 4

hundreds of residents who contributed to its adoption.

The Master Plan, he said, was adopted allowing for a density of a maximum of 10 residential units per acre in the Downtown node. Under terms of the Master Plan, any greater densities in the downtown area would require City Council approval. The South Main proposal called for almost 20 units per acre.

After close to four hours of presentations from the developer, questions from city leaders and comments from over a dozen residents, the City Council voted to allow a scaled-down version of the residential request. It allows for 129 rental units and 68 townhomes on the property. The measure passed 5-1, with Mayor David Belle Isle absent.

Comments from residents varied.

Most in opposition decried the traffic the development will bring to an al-

activity, have his cards canceled and put a freeze on his account. He gave all of the letters and other documents to police to aid in their investigation.

Man loses $1.5K to fake Amazon scam MILTON, Ga. — A man called police Jan. 16 when he was scammed out of $1.5K by someone sending emails that appeared to be from Amazon.

The man had found an advertisement on Craigslist for an oven in Kansas that he was interested in purchasing. When he contacted the seller, he was told that the purchase would be made through Amazon for security Edna Frances DeHart, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away January 17, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 37

What the city approved • 129 rental units and 68 townhomes • 3-story office/retail structure, • 3-story office building, • 2 restaurants • 25,000 s.f. anchor brewery ready congested area.

“Density is going to add volume, and volume, with very little effort, can become congestion,” said Valerie Manley, representing the Windward Community Service Association.

Manley also said city leaders should reject “veiled threats” that, if the development is rejected, the property could be sold for a less-appropriate commercial use such as a drive-through restaurant.

But others argued that the project could provide a shot in the arm to a depressed area.

reasons.

After he agreed to the payment method, the man received an email that appeared to be from Amazon from safe-purchases-invoice@consultant. com confirming the order. He followed the payment conditions in that email and responded back Jan. 14 with the information for three $500 Amazon gift cards that he purchased.

When the man received another email two days later requesting another $500 for insurance before shipping the oven, he contacted Amazon directly.

Amazon did not have any record of the seller.

The company said it does not conduct payment transactions through gift cards, like the man had.

Ruby Norwood, of Roswell, passed away January 11, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Dianne Donnarumma, 59, of Alpharetta, passed away January 10, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Dawn Tribble, who owns a home in the Alpha Park neighborhood directly across the street from the site, said South Main Street is in dire need of revitalization. She said she was excited to find out about the project.

The area south of City Center, has become a gathering point for vagrants, and some residential properties in her neighborhood have fallen into disrepair, said Tribble.

It stands in stark contrast to what is happening at City Center only a few blocks to the north, she added.

“I love what they’ve done to the downtown area, but it looks like it stopped [short],” she said.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-17-AB-03 PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers January 26, 2017 2:00 P.M. PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Liquor, Beer & Wine Sunday Sales APPLICANT Taste of India 3070 Windward Plaza Suite M Alpharetta, Ga. 30005 Owner Shyam Dasari Registered Agent Sreemannarayana Jannu

John T. Schmitz, 28, of Cumming, passed away January 10, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Billy Ray Stancil, 39, of Cumming, passed away January 17, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Cletis Ralph Fritts, Sr., 80, of Roswell, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Ralph G. Outler, Jr., 63, of Cumming, passed away January 13, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Norris W. Martin, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away January 16, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Terry Neal Payne, 55, of Cumming, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Oscar Montero, 79, of Cumming, passed away January 15, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Joan M. Sanborn, 83, of Roswell, passed away January 16, 2017. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Joseph Leonard Swofford, 73, of Suwanee, passed away January 14, 2017.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dawn Thackery, 51, of Cumming, passed away January 12, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Dennie Banks Triller, 73, of Cummng, passed away January 13, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

38 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Now Hiring: Advertising Sales Executive Job Description & Duties: Appen Media Group is hiring sales executives for the marketing and advertising department. Primary responsibilities will be managing a book of existing business by consulting on and selling advertising campaigns, and growing the existing book of business through cold calling and networking.

QualiďŹ cations: Must be ambitious, hard working, good with people, and goal oriented.

Previous sales experience preferred, but not required. Compensation: Base salary of $18,200/ year with aggressive monthly commission. Full medical benefits, matching 401k and PTO. About Appen Media Group: Appen Media Group is a multimedia news company with a focus on print newspapers. AMG publishes

four weekly newspapers in the north Fulton and south Forsyth markets totaling 75,000 in circulation per week. In addition to its weekly coverage, AMG also publishes the monthly womens magazine, Northside Woman, as well as quarterly community guides, called Answer Books. Digitally, AMG has a vast online presences through various social media platforms and through its operation of northfulton.com and northsidewoman.com.

Email a resume and cover letter to: christina@appenmediagroup.com and CC hans@appenmediagroup.com.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 26, 2017 | 39

® HANDYMAN REMODELING

678-455-2434

www.HandyHero.net

40 | January 26, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

2016 A YEAR OF EXTRAORDINARY RESULTS

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

16143 BELFORD DRIVE

15986 MANOR CLUB DRIVE

16155 BELFORD DRIVE

3113 BALLEY FORREST DRIVE

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

SUZANNE CLOSE S E R V I N G N O R T H AT L A N TA

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

3253 BALLEY FORREST DRIVE

16073 MANOR CLUB DRIVE

13120 ADDISON ROAD

3136 BALLEY FORREST DRIVE

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

Roswell

The Manor Golf & Country Club

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

15990 MANOR CLUB DRIVE The Manor Golf & Country Club

8410 PARKER PLACE

2233 ORCHARD PLACE*

Roswell

Roswell

16039 MANOR CLUB DRIVE The Manor Golf & Country Club

As 2017 brings a new year of extraordinary possibilities, I want to thank you for making 2016 a successful year. My road to success, closing over $170 million in career sales, starts with my clients and the referrals they pass my way. It has been an honor to serve you, your family and friends with your real estate needs in 2016. I am grateful for your support and look forward to working with you this new year. Here’s to making it the best year yet!

c. 770.335.1880 | o. 770.442.7300

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

suzanne@atlantafinehomes.com

800 THORNBERRY DRIVE

16147 BELFORD DRIVE

3183 BALLEY FORREST DRIVE

3243 BALLEY FORREST DRIVE

Alpharetta

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

The Manor Golf & Country Club

atlantafinehomes.com | sothebysrealty.com

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

107 ESTATES AVENUE

121 HEMLOCK STREET

118 ROBIN DRIVE

Woodstock

Roswell

Roswell

©MMXVII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission.

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. *Represented Buyer.