Milton 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 1 2 , N o . 4

Milton named second safest city in Georgia

Children’s Charities seeks support for new Milton park Park will be “all-inclusive” ►►PAGE 28

Mayor Lockwood give State of the City address Economic development a focus of 2017 ►►PAGE 4

Fulton approves Freeport Tax exemption

Measure targets e-commerce distribution ►►PAGE 16

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

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JOE PARKER/HERALD

Milton officers Danelle Baker and Coleman Sproles are part of the reason Milton was named second safest city in Georgia. See story page 6.

Cambridge downed by Alpharetta in thrilling game Raiders squeak by Bears, 69-66 ►►PAGE 34

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2 | January 26, 2017 | Milton 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, although the cause of death has not yet been formally determined. The woman has been identified as 53-year-old Karen Lee LaForge.

Her body was found on Tyson Circle

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-

between Old Alabama Road and Northwood 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.

Police are waiting on the autopsy report from the medical examiner’s office for the cause of death.

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 36

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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,

See ARRESTS Page 36

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 3

Cataract surgery and the newest Symfony Lens Implant

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Cataract surgery has become a very safe and refined procedure with over 3 million Americans undergoing the surgery every year. With advancements in technology over the last 20 years, the surgery can now be performed with mild sedation in about 10-15 minutes. Not only has the procedure become sophisticated, but the lens technology used to correct patients’ vision has evolved also. In the past, patients were simply offered standard Samir Vira, M.D. intraocular lens implants and were instructed Cataract & Refractive to obtain new bifocal glasses after surgery.

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

Presbyopia is a natural aging process of the eye whereby an individual loses his or her ability to see things up close beginning in the mid 40s. This occurs due to the natural loss of flexibility of the lens, and you will require the need of reading or bifocal glasses or contact lenses for your near visual tasks. Presbyopia-correcting lens implants have emerged to match the needs for your near vision. Unlike bifocal or multifocal contact lenses, these lens implants are inserted into your eye and do not require any additional care.

Several presbyopia-correcting lens implants, including accommodative and multifocal implants, have been developed over the last 10-15 years.

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 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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MILTON, Ga. — Mayor Joe Lockwood and City Manager/Police Chief Steven Krokoff addressed members of the Milton Business Alliance (MBA) last week for the third annual State of the City Address. Milton’s economic growth, transportation and digital upgrades were all discussed as Milton looks for 2017 to be a year of change.

“One of the big changes we are looking at is the expansion of our economic development program,” said Krokoff.

“We need to leverage some of the things we have going on and create business demand and get some building in the Deerfield area. We have to show that we have the demand.”

He said Milton has a significant competitive edge over its neighbors because of its location and the cost of land.

“We are hoping that if they build businesses will come,” Krokoff said.

Krokoff also spoke of a business “incubator.” Details were not given or to its possible location, but Krokoff said the project would help grow small business in Milton.

Residents will now have the option of paying for business license renewals online in 2017. Krokoff said he hopes that all of the city’s e-commerce will be digital in the future.

Mayor Lockwood and Krokoff also expressed excitement for Milton’s new City Hall, projected to open in April.

Krokoff said the new hall “is nearly livable” and “It is a beautiful space and it is perfectly appointed. It is so fitting of the character of Milton.”

Those attending or viewing the City Council’s live stream will now have an easier way to see which councilman voted for or against an item, as Milton

will roll out an electronic voting system.

Milton will also introduce a citizen’s government academy this year. The program will aim to teach residents about the various departments of Milton’s government.

Also in attendance was State Sen. Brandon Beach who was recently appointed chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee. Beach told the audience, “You’re going to see a lot of orange traffic cones out,” in reference to upcoming road work around the Milton area.

Beach said three projects along Westside Parkway and Windward Parkway will begin in the next three to four months.

At the Ga. 400/Windward Parkway

See MILTON, Page 14

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

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

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 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 community. 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 property 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 | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 5

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6 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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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.

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

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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 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.

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.

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,

See ROAD, Page 14

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 7

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8 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

JOHNS CREEK ARTS CENTER:

SCENE & HURD

‘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

NEWS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 9

A fresh look for Highway 9 water towers MILTON, Ga.—The two waters located on Highway 9 behind Zaxby’s and near Cambridge High School will get a new look as crews began work last Friday on repainting the towers. Both the interior and exterior of the towers are to be repainted. The towers have been drained and all water drained was returned to the overall water system.

The Fulton County project is slated to take 8-12 weeks and work will run from Monday-Saturday each week from 7 A.M. until dusk.

According to statement put out by City of Milton, “The process of removing the old paint is rather noisy. Workers will use noise meters in an effort to help ensure that local noise ordinances are adhered to as much as possible.”

According to crews on-site, water towers typically have to be repainted every 10-15 years. All sandblasting materials, including the old paint removed, will be recovered on-site. Sandblasting materials and paint will be separated, temporarily stored and secured on-site and then transported and disposed of accordingly. During a meeting with project managers, Milton Fire-Rescue staff assessed any fire and rescue needs, and received detailed project information.

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SCHOOLS

10 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com 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 con-

sidering failing; three years of failing adds the label “chronically failing.”

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

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

NATHAN DEAL Georgia Governor 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 reve-

nue 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.

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OPINION

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 11

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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12 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

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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 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 | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 13

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14 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Mayor Wood to host Holcomb Bridge Road Revitalization meeting ROSWELL, Ga. — Join Roswell Mayor Jere Wood as he hosts a Holcomb Bridge Road Revitalization Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m., at the East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell.

All members of the public are invited to provide input regarding revitalization, economic development and transportation opportunities along

Holcomb Bridge Road, from Highway 9 to the Gwinnet County line.

In attendance will be the Downtown Development Authority, Roswell Inc and city of Roswell staff from the Community Development and Transportation departments.

For more information, contact Mayor Wood’s office at 770-594-6288.

Kendore Cares hosts Gin&Phonics ATLANTA — What better way to support literacy initiatives across Georgia than to attend an event aptly named Gin&Phonics? Gin&Phonics is set to be an evening of exclusive performances, games, fun on the dance floor and special prizes for all attendees.

Alpharetta-based Kendore Cares will celebrate its nonprofit launch with a warm and lively evening of literacy and libation. Proceeds from the inaugural Gin&Phonics will directly support teacher training and student intervention programs throughout Georgia.

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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 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

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YOUR NEWS News@appenmediagroup.com

Continued from Page 4 interchange, there will be an addition of a triple-left turn lane that will extend along to Deerfield Parkway and Westside Parkway. Also in the works will be an added westbound lane from Cracker Barrel to the intersection of Deerfield Parkway and Westside Parkway. The intersection will also receive another left-turn lane on Windward turning onto Westside Parkway.

For those commuting outside the city limits, Beach also spoke of the

come reception will be held from 7-8 p.m. that will feature signature literary-themed cocktails. Food will be provided by the West Midtown restaurant Endive.

Gin&Phonics will be held at Summerour Studio in Atlanta on Friday, March 3 from 7-11 p.m. Tickets are $70 per individual or $120 per couple.

A special teacher rate is offered. Sponsorship opportunities available.

For tickets and to learn more about Gin&Phonics, visit KendoreCares.org/ events, or call Janet Kinard at 404201-0933.

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 information from residents and present a sketch of what the road might look like incorporating their suggestions. He said that draft will be presented at a public forum in about a month.

McGinnis Ferry widening project which will begin later this year. He also spoke in praise of improvements to the Ga. 400/I-285 interchange.

“It will be a nightmare for three or four years, but once it’s done, it’s going to be an unbelievable project,” Beach said. “I think 400 at 285 is the worst interchange in the southeast. It needs to be fixed. It’s very dangerous, it doesn’t flow well even during 2 in the afternoon.”

With many changes on the slate for 2017, Krokoff said he is excited for the positive changes coming to Milton and is looking forward to a fantastic year for the city.

NEWS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 15

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 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 LAROSILIERE 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 downtown from the current centralized area of two to three blocks.

“Transit works, but it takes commit-

See TRANSIT, Page 36

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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 | Milton 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

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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 | Milton 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

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 | Milton 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 | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 19

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GO to Northfulton.com CLICK “Enter to Win” icon TELL us which page number the logo is on WATCH your email on March 6th to see if you have won a Free Cruise! * Winner will be drawn March 6th 2017

“Our cruise was fantastic! We sailed on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, trans-Atlantic from New York to Southampton England in October.

We were at sea for 6 days and loved how relaxing it was. It was a jazz cruise and we enjoyed the music. We especially loved the British food and afternoon tea and met many wonderful people.”

– Jeff and Elise Baggett

10945 State Bridge Rd., Ste 105 cruiseshipcenters.com/Alpharetta (678) 712-5059

Sponsored by:

Cruise winner will be drawn and notified via email Monday March 7th.

One entry per household, per week.

20 | January 26, 2017 | Milton ForsythHerald Herald| |NorthFulton.com ForsythHerald.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

ForsythHerald.com NorthFulton.com| |Forsyth Milton 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 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

22 | Milton 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.

Dr. Taylor’s resume is impressive to

• Alzheimer and Dementia Care • Transportation and Errands • Bathing, Dressing and Light Housekeeping • Fall Risk Care

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.

He is one of the first Mohs surgeons in Georgia to offer true Mohs surgery for melanoma with in-office specialized stains to detect cancer cells and maximize a patient’s chance of cure.

Melanoma patients are treated and, in most cases, repaired within a single day. Generally, no outside pathology is needed.

Training by celebrated cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Leland Housman and cosmetic and laser dermatologist Dr.

• Caregivers Available from 1 hr./day to 24/7 and Live-in • Assisted Living Placement Assistance • Custom and Flexible Schedules

“Thank you for voting us Best Home Care 2 years in a row” Senior S eni nior orr H Helpers: elp el pers: M Matt a Fredenberg, Elizabeth Jackson, Pam Hodgson, on H Hutch utch ch H Hodgson odgs od gson

770.442.2154 Your Local Senior Care Expert.

Vic Ross, both of La Jolla, California, has enabled Dr. Taylor to offer truly state-ofthe-art vein care for medically significant vein disease and cosmetic spider veins alike. Depending on an individual patient’s findings, a combination of endovenous laser ablation, foam or liquid sclerotherapy, phlebectomy, and light-based devices help restore patients’ veins to as good as new.

Dr. Taylor’s practice, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, opens January 30th 2017 in the Gates at North Point development, on the corner of North Point Parkway and Webb Bridge Road. He offers comprehensive dermatology services from skin exams to Mohs surgery, advanced minimally

invasive vein treatment procedures and cosmetic services including Botox and fillers. Consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta for you and your loved ones’ skin care needs.

Congratulations to Dr. Taylor and Premier Dermatology!

To learn more about Dr. Taylor, visit him online at www.premierdermatologyatlanta.com

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?

Pam; Yes we can! We have a VA specialist who can walk you through the entire Veteran’s Aid & Attendance Program. Please call our office at 770442-2154 and we can help you!

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

Caregivers (Certified Nursing Assistants mostly) that can provide care anywhere from one hour a day to live-in and 24/7.

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 | Milton 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.

Dr. Brent Taylor

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

PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

24 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

BUNGALOWS • COTTAGES INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE

NEXT-LEVEL SENIOR LIVING

Delos and Margaret Knight are longtime residents of Alpharetta and have decided to downsize their home and move into Village Park of Alpharetta.

What made you choose Village Park of Alpharetta, Mr. Knight?

678-740-3499 villageparkseniorliving.com

12300 Morris Road, Alphare�a, GA 30005

“I have seen other projects by Tim Gary and extremely impressed with his quality of work and the layout of the project. I just knew this one will be just as good as his other projects.”

“I also appreciate the fact that Village Park has a wide selection of accommodations, everything from our roomy Bungalow to the Cottages to the apartments which offer independent living, assisted living and memory care.

With that, there is everything you can ever want in one community, right here!

What are you looking forward to the most about moving into Village Park, Mrs. Knight?

“The convenience of the location and the fact that you are near Avalon, which is a wonderful place for entertainment, restaurants, shopping and it is right around the corner. Guess What? We can 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 678-7403499 for more information or go to villageparkseniorliving.com.

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Milton 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.

When your new home is complete, it will be designed and personalized to your living standards.

Longleaf Communities, formerly known as Thomas Homes & Communities (THC), clearly demonstrates its expertise when it comes to building

communities for active adults. Our experienced and hardworking team of professionals are here to manage and facilitate your transition into your new home and community life.

RICE Our pride in our company is evidenced by our relentless attention to detail and insistence on delivering the highest quality of workmanship. In fact, our mission is to offer you premier architectural designs and floor plans, first-rate quality construction and finishes, and incomparable community designs in desirable locations.

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 678697-4984 or KathyRice@AtlantaFineHomes.com

NEW ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES

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678.523.4872

678.525.0823

Call today for a private tour.

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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.

SPORTS

26 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

STOCK UP FOR THE

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Cambridge golfer places 9th against top talent MILTON, Ga.—Cambridge Senior Golfer Brad Plaziak recorded an impressive finish at the invitational Carolina-Georgia Junior Championship tournament against the top 20 ranked players and alternates from Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina on January 15-16th.

Brad posted a 1-over par total at the tight and difficult Mount Vintage Golf

Club in North Augusta, South Carolina with rounds of 73-72 which earned him a 9th place finish out of a field of 64 players. Both of his scores counted toward the team total for Georgia.

The tournament hosted a strong field of D1 college committed golfers from the Southeast and Brad represented Cambridge and the state of Georgia extremely well.

Local man honored as top golf teacher JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Paul Belongie, from RiverPines Golf Club in Johns Creek, has recently been named to U.S. Kids Golf’s annual list of Top 50 Kids Teachers.

The award recognizes the world’s most BELONGIE outstanding youth golf instructors. Each of the winners are chosen based on their contributions to youth golf, such as: experience with young golfers; time devoted to teaching youth; innovation and fun in their programs; and overall effort to grow the game.

The Top 50 Kids Teachers of 2016 includes golf professionals from 26 states, Canada, England and Kenya.

Each year, award recipients include teachers who work at public, private, resort and municipal courses.

“These coaches are honored as more than instructors,” said Dan Van Horn, the President and Founder of U.S. Kids Golf. “They create outstanding opportunities for young golfers to learn in a fun and rewarding environment that instills a love for the game and engages the entire family. Their ability to connect with students and fully engage them in the learning process sets them apart.”

For information about Belongie and the award, visit uskidsgolf.com.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 27

Reach 5 of the top 10 wealthiest communities in Ga. 2016 An Appen Med

Publishing March 2017

ia Group Publ

PREPARING STUDENTS fOR LIFE

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With our annual Education Answer Book you reach over 139,650 loyal readers • • • • •

66% earn over $100,000 33% earn over $150,000 71% a have college or post graduate degree 74% use our newspapers to purchase goods and services Our readers have children in public school, private school, on their way to college and gifted children with special needs.

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Call or email to reserve your advertising now! 770.442.3278 • advertising@appenmediagroup.com

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COMMUNITY

28 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Paving the future: Fundraiser to benefit all-inclusive children’s park in Milton MILTON, GA. - A new all-inclusive play park is in the works in Milton thanks to the efforts of a locally-based charitable organization, Children’s Charities. The park will provide a safe area for all children with abilities and disabilities.

The play area will offer amenities, such as swings, roller slides, musical instruments, sensory centers, a tea cup whirl, climb-on and climb-in structures, see-saws and ADA-approved picnic tables, as well as ramping throughout the park.

Rubber flooring will be poured throughout the playground for ease of access for all abilities.

The two play areas will be geared for children ages 2-5 and 5-12.

Children’s Charities co-founders Amanda White and Lauren Holmes’ latest undertaking is the Children’s Charities Designing for a Difference Clarity Farm Showcase Home being held in Milton from April 19-23, 2017.

All proceeds from the showcase home tour’s ticket sales, sponsorship of the tour or the park, as well as purchases of commemorate bricks will benefit the play park project in Milton.

Available for $50 is a 4x8 brick paver that allows for three lines of text, and for $100 there is a larger 8x8 brick paver that provides room for up to five lines of text. The commemorative bricks will be permanently displayed in the park.

“Children’s Charities is so excited about being able to donate this incredible new play area to the City of Milton,” said Holmes. “Once completed, it will become one of the largest play areas for children both with and without disabilities in the state.”

To purchase brick pavers or tickets to the Clarity Farm Showcase Home and Tour, please visit Children’s Charities online at www.ChildrensCharitiesGA.org.

Please Join Us For Our Annual Gala!

Celebrating Seniors

The Jewels of Our Lives

Serving your community for over 15 years.

We offer a 10 year warranty on structural construction.

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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

Serving Servi v Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton Mountain ountain nta Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs g

Champagne Reception, Seated Dinner, Open Bar, Silent and Live Auctions, Dance to the Music of Platinum!

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

The 2017 Gala Honorees are Brown & Co. Jewelers • Crafted Brands

Specializing in Construction, Renovation, & Repair • Patios/Pool Decks • Pools & Spas • Outdoor Kitchens • Arbors • Brick & Stone • Chimneys/Fireplace • Decorative Concrete/Pavers • Decks • Driveways • Grading & Drainage • Retaining Walls • Stone/Tile Deck Waterproofing & Leak Repair

404.478.9563

rick@southernoutdoorcd.com • www.southernoutdoorcd.com

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 29

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.

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30 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Nine Cambridge students receive All-State honors MILTON, Ga.—Nine Cambridge musicians received All-State honors by the Georgia Music Educators Association. The Cambridge students were selected as the top 400 in the state as either underclassmen or upperclassmen. They will perform with the All-State bands and orchestras.

Receiving All-State honors are Cameron Chong, Jesse An and Amanda Bock on viola, Renee Wang, flute alternate, William dos Santos, bass trombone alternate, Seth Leigh, euphonium alternate, Daniel King, clarinet, Hailey Farbman, trombone and Ethan Nalwasky for percussion.

Independence HS student’s artwork published ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Independence High School senior Dylan Moore recently had his art published in the Fulton County Water Resources Division’s 2017 art calendar.

Moore’s work was selected by jurors as one of 13 out of nearly 200 Fulton County students.

To celebrate the winning students, the Water Resources Division hosted a catered breakfast reception Dec. 7 at the Fulton County Government Center in downtown Atlanta. The students’ families and teachers were among the guests attending.

After the breakfast, Dylan and the other student artists were invited to attend the Fulton County Board of Commissioners meeting where commissioners recognized them for their artistic contributions. The young artists also received certificates and prizes.

Dylan’s mixed media illustration, entitled “We Are One with Water,” will appear as the calendar’s August image.

Dylan Moore, left, shows off his winning piece of artwork.

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NorthFulton.com | Milton 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: 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

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

In the front row are Cody Killebrew, Christopher Pinkus, Paul Jacobsen, Adam Prince, Connor Perkins and Kaelan Nurse. 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 Church whose project erecting a 20foot flag pole with solar lighting for the

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Roswell Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center.

Cody Killebrew, from Crew 347, sponsored by Milton Ward of Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints.

His project was the identification and logging in over 1,242 graves sites into

the Billiongraves website.

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.

32 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

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

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 AllState team and was named to the Class 6-A All-Region team in 2014 and 2015.

Kushkituah was named to the 2016 AllGeorgia 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 watch-

Dodson, a 6-foot-1 guard, is nearing 1,000 career points after two and a half season with the Lady Knights.

6-foot-4 Center Kushkituah has committed to the University of Tennessee.

ing 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 All-Americans, and I wanted to accomplish that too. In the

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. 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.

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 33

Milton basketball gets familiar leadership under new head coach Coach Revels of freshman, JV team, transitions to varsity head coach

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga.— A midseason coaching change can often throw a program into chaos as players and parents attempt to adjust to new leadership, but Milton basketball is banking that newly named head coach Sean Revels’ four years with the program will lead to a smooth, and hopefully successful, transition.

Revels has spent four years with the Milton program, two as a freshman team coach and the last two as head coach of the JV team.

This will be his first head coaching position.

Revels takes over the varsity program after former head coach Matt Kramer stepped down due to family reasons two weeks ago.

He said he felt it was necessary for the new head coach to come from within the Milton program to avoid

undue stress on the players having to adjust to a completely new coach.

“My first love, my passion and my motivation is for the kids,” Revels said.

“So although it’ll be a little difficult, it was a necessary component to keep the program moving forward. I very willingly stepped into that role knowing it would be an easier transition for those kids.”

Coming from the freshman and JV ranks of Milton, Revels said he has already coached many of the varsity players and that has been crucial to his transition to the varsity level. He also said that the energy around the program has been high since the transition.

“The parents have familiarity with me after being with the program for four years — it’s not so much the shock of change. The players have been adjusting well, as have the parents and coaches. It’s been a real positive transi-

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tion to say the least.”

Revels said he also hopes to move the program in a positive direction.

“I think the culture has been established to a certain degree, but as always, when a new coach takes over, you typically have a little bit different vision and you put your personal stamp on it. The culture has been established, but now we need to cultivate it to bring it to another level.”

Revels said he and his team will not lie down as a result of the coaching change. However, he says the team still has much work ahead.

“We will have a bigger focus on defense, improving our team defense is always a desirable point for us. As we improve our defense, our chances go up precipitously to compete not only for the region but the state tournament, also.”

Revels said he will stress the importance of region games to his team.

“I think it’s important to really focus on region play more than ever because that will secure our place in the playoffs and home-court advantage.”

Sean Revels has taken over head coaching duties for Milton’s varsity team. Revels has spent four years with the freshman and JV program.

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34 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Cambridge’s Kamar Robertson (1) is defended by Alpharetta’s Marcus Hill. Robertson led the Bears’ in scoring with 21 points.

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

Cambridge’s Kyler Ingram make a drive to the basket late against Alpharetta. 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.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 35

36 | January 26, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a quorum of the City Council may be present on February 2, 2017 beginning at 7:00 PM attending a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting to be held at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107-E, Council Chambers.

This Public Notice is in accordance with O.C.G.A §50-14-1. No final action or other official business will be transacted.

This the 19th day of January 2017.

Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk

Transit:

Continued from Page 15 ment 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 peo-

Arrests: Invitation to Bid

Right of Way Maintenance Services ITB NUMBER 17-PW03 Sealed Bid Due Date: February 21, 2017 2:00PM Local Time Milton City Hall To be publicly opened approximately 2:05PM in the Courthouse The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

The City of Milton is requesting submittals from interested parties for a public private partnership. The request for sealed bids for Right of Way Maintenance Services will be posted on the following websites the week of January 19, 2017. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

Invitation to Bid Milton Downtown Wayfinding Signage Project ITB NUMBER 17-CD02 Sealed Bid Due Date: February 28, 2017 2:00PM Local Time Milton City Hall To be publicly opened approximately 2:05PM in the Courthouse The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

The City of Milton is requesting submittals from interested parties for a public private partnership. The request for sealed bids for Milton Downtown Wayfinding Signage Project will be posted on the following websites the week of January 26, 2017. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

Share your opinions northfulton.com

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

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 fraudulently 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

CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE PH-17-AB-01 PLACE 13000 Deerfield Pkwy Bldg 100 Ste 107E Milton, GA 30004 DATE & TIME 1/30/17 6:00 PM PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Wine, Malt Beverages and Distilled Spirits APPLICANT Erkal LLC. dba Manhattan Pizza & Grille 5230 Windward Pkwy Ste 105 Milton, Georgia 30004 Jack Erkal 912-674-4925

ple 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?)

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.

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 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 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.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | January 26, 2017 | 37

December Eagle Scouts named for the Northern Ridge District NORTH FULTON – The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, including the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review Dec. 29, 2016.

Northern Ridge noted and incredible 150 Scouts earned their Eagle Award in 2016 – a record number.

These Scouts passed their Eagle Board of Review held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Mason Green, from Troop 143, sponsored by John’s Creek United Methodist Church. His Eagle project was the design and construction of 10 outdoor backpack rack trees for the Camp Glisson in Dahlonega.

Josef Flagler, from Troop 10, sponsored by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. He chose as his Eagle project the restoration of the courtyard at DeKalb Preparatory Academy. This included the design and construction of two benches, the cleaning and restoring of two picnic tables, and replanting four raised planting beds.

Tawil Charaniya, of Troop 3143, sponsored by John’s Creek United Methodist Church. For an Eagle project, he chose the revitalization of the outdoor playground area and restoring several benches and tables for Drake House.

Rishi Mocherla, from Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church. Mocheria chose as a project to collect medical supplies for a Hospital in May Pen, Jamaica. Rishi collected 981 items valued at over $7,000. That included more than 50 Blood Sugar monitors.

Joshua Corday, of Troop 2143, sponsored by John’s Creek United Methodist Church. He selected a project to design and construct four wooden hydration stations as well as cleaning up the Cross Country trail at Johns Creek High School.

Pavan Seshadri, from Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. Pavan chose as his project to collect coats for The International Rescue Committee. Pavan collected at least142 winter coats as well as 40 other winter items.

Kevin Doyle, from Troop 27, sponsored by the

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.

New Eagle Scouts are top row from left: Mason Green, Josef Flagler and Tawil Charaniya. Middle row are: Rishi Mocherla and Joshua Corday. Front row are Pavan Seshadri, Kevin Doyle and Kevin Doyle.

Johns Creek Christian Church. His project was the design and construction of a large Cubbie storage container for Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center’s Classroom.

Ryan Caviness, of Troop 2143, sponsored by

Edna Frances DeHart, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away January 17, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

John’s Creek United Methodist Church. Ryan’s project was the construction and design of a section of boardwalk for a trail at Autrey Mill Nature preserve and Heritage Center.

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.

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 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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