Fe b r u a r y 1 0 , 2 0 1 6 | 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 1 , N o . 6
North Fulton conducts homeless census COUNTING THE NEEDY:
Annual count mobilizes local groups
New MARTA bus routes
Expanded coverage in N. Fulton ►►PAGE 6
Health & Wellness Sponsored section ►►PAGE 22
Heroin ‘epidemic’ comes to N. Fulton Police, DA to combat drug use ►►PAGE 7
Read more, Page 4.
Roswell begins 2-lane roundabout One of largest in state ►►PAGE 9
Halcyon begins construction
$370M mixed-use on Ga. 400 ►►PAGE 16
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Find out how to win a $2000 cruise ►►PAGE 35
Fulton schools pick superintendent Lanoue to start May 1 ►►PAGE 34
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2 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
Employee accused of pain-pill theft 770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 122 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 143 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102
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JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A husband and wife were arrested Jan. 13 after allegedly taking part in prostitution. According to police, Robert Vogtle, 43, and his wife, Katya Vogtle, 36, both of Belcrest Drive, Johns Creek, were soliciting sex via online ads. As part of a police operation, an undercover officer found an ad for sex on a website known for such solicitations. He replied to the ad and was
working. Security told police that, when they spoke to the 36-yearold Conyers resident, she allegedly admitted to the thefts. She told them she took the pills over the course of January and was selling them for $5 a pill for extra money. The pills retail for $6 a pill. The suspect said she only managed to sell seven pills and turned over 90 to security. She was arrested for theft.
eventually directed, via cell phone, to the Vogtle residence. The officer entered the home and spoke with Katya, the alleged prostitute, and recorded their conversation. Police raided the house and found $3,100 in cash hidden, along with a credit-card processor and paperwork. Marijuana was also allegedly found. Katya Vogtle was arrested for prostitution and Robert Vogtle was arrested for pimping.
Former employee accused of $60K fraud ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A local insurance company suspects an employee of fraudulently taking as much as $60,000 from the company. The owner of the Alpha Insurance
Mart contacted police Jan. 16 about one of her employees taking money. An audit turned up missing cash and found the employee had been writing $1,500 checks to himself and cashing them since November 2014. In total, $60,000 is suspected missing due to this activity.
3 charged for entering autos JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Three young men were arrested Jan. 13 after allegedly breaking into several vehicles overnight in the Glen Eagle neighborhood. According to police, witnesses said several men were driving around in a
See BLOTTER, Page 45
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ALPHARETTA, Ga. – An employee of the Windward Costco store is accused of stealing 150 pain pills and trying to sell them. Pharmacy workers said they noticed Tramadol pills missing Jan. 21 while doing inventory. More pills went missing the following week, for a total of 150 pills absent. Store security looked into the matter and discovered the pills went missing only when a particular pharmacy technician was
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was arrested Jan. 20 on Bell Road in Johns Creek for DUI, possession of marijuana and disorderly conduct. ►► Julie Estes Chandler, 44, of Brookmere Way, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 24 on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI. ►► Katherine Mary Branche, 51,
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of Nottaway Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 19 on Jones Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Erasmus Leon Harvey, 43, of Fairburn, was arrested Jan. 23 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, open container, failure to maintain lane, suspended license, expired tag and improper transfer of tag.
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CORRECTION In the article “Milton Council approves two considerations in city’s TDR program” (Feb. 3) the chart should have noted Councilman Joe Longoria was absent and Councilwoman Karen Thurman recused herself for the last two items. Also, the items on the Deerfield formbased code and city budget were first presentation.
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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 3
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4 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
NEWS
North Fulton conducts homeless census Annual count mobilizes local groups By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – The waiting room at North Fulton Community Charities was filled with mobilized volunteers the night of Jan. 28, ready to break into groups and head out into the cold night. But this was not for any natural disaster; it was to count the homeless in North Fulton. The annual homeless count takes place across the country, with governments on all levels taking part alongside volunteers and nonprofit groups who take to the streets to search for homeless people and families. Volunteers helped identify the homeless by conducting surveys that provide demographic characteristics, homeless history, homeless experiences and other vital information. This information can then be used in future planning. The groups in North Fulton found over 50 homeless people during the count, said Barbara Duffy, executive director of North Fulton Community Charities, a Roswell-based nonprofit that helps needy families. The majority of those found were in Sandy Springs but some were in Alpharetta and Roswell. Duffy pointed out that only those people seen were counted; even though there may be evidence elsewhere, with no one present, they cannot be counted.
North Fulton’s needy: • NFCC assisted 329 homeless households including 229 children with a total of 613 individuals. • 221 households (254 adults) had no accompanying children. • 108 households (131 adults) had 229 accompanying children. NFCC gave out food and toiletries 1,283 times to area homeless in 2015. NFCC expended $85,730 in 2015 on motel fees. This amount purchased 277 weeks of motel residence for area homeless. NFCC does not routinely pay motel fees. *Source: North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC)
Volunteers gather at North Fulton Community Charities Jan. 26 before scouring the county to count the homeless. The numbers of the needy – not just homeless – are increasing in North Fulton. “North Fulton is lucky because this is where the jobs are. There are lots of service industry jobs but they don’t pay well,” Duffy said. “This is where the work is, but there is no affordable housing and public transportation is limited.” People want to live where they can get to work, so they can end up paying more than they should for housing. As soon as a blip comes, they are in trouble, Duffy said. According to numbers from Homestretch, a Roswell-based emergency housing group, 44 percent of all Americans are only one paycheck away from homelessness. Federal standards say no one should pay more than a third of their income on housing and utilities but it’s not uncommon for people in North Fulton to pay 50 or 60 percent, said Duffy. Many of those homeless families in North Fulton are living in extended-stay hotels, Duffy said. These people are typically not included in the homeless count. “They may be working full time and making the rent but they cannot get out. They are making just enough to get by,” she said. NFCC spent $85,000 last year on hotel bills. Duffy said they rarely give out such money, since it is better to get the homeless out of that situation than keep them in it. Local institutions such as The Drake House or Homestretch offer emergency, short-term housing to families, however they usually have a waiting list of those needing assistance. One of the groups helping in the count was Beats the Streets, an Al-
North Fulton’s working poor • 44 percent of all Americans are only one paycheck away from homelessness. • Over 15 percent of the Fulton County population is living below the poverty line. • Only 6 percent of the North Fulton population is aware that homelessness exists in the North Fulton area. • The median household income in the North Fulton area is $103,190 (vs. the national average of $61,579). In comparison, the typical household income of North Fulton low-income families is approximately $21,000. • Minimum-wage workers must work 109 hours per week to afford an average two-bedroom apartment in the metro Atlanta area. Source: Homestretch pharetta faith-based group that aims to help the homeless by finding them jobs, counselling or just some food. Volunteers gave out hygiene kits, blankets, socks, hats, snacks and water to homeless individuals they surveyed. Beats the Streets Executive Director Jeanette Hames calls these kits “bags of hope.” Not everyone fits the stereotype of the determinedly unemployed — drug
See HOMELESS, Page 6
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 5
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6 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
NEWS
New MARTA bus routes proposed in N. Fulton Homeless: Additional route, others changed By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Commuters looking for public transit in North Fulton will soon have a few more options. MARTA will change its bus routes in the northern suburbs beginning in April. Don Williams, senior director of transit system planning at MARTA, said Feb. 1 the transit authority will add a new line and tweak existing lines for riders. “We want to improve on-time performance and streamline our routes to better tailor our service to demands,” Williams said. There are three existing bus routes – 140, 143 and 185. All three take travelers to and from the North Springs station. A new route will be made by splitting Route 140 into two routes. The new Route 140 will operate from North Springs along Ga. 400 to the Mansell Road Park and Ride, and take North Point Parkway up to the
Windward Parkway Park and Ride. The new Route 141 will also follow Ga. 400 and North Point Parkway, but will take Haynes Bridge Road up to Windward Parkway via Deerfield Parkway in Milton. Route 143 will follow Ga. 400 up to Windward Parkway and do a circuit up Windward to McGinnis Ferry Road, down Morris Road and back to Ga. 400. Route 185 will travel up to Holcomb Bridge Road, then Ga. 9 to Old Milton Parkway, stop at Avalon and continue along Old Milton to Brookside Parkway, where it will turn around. According to Williams, Route 140 has about 2,000 daily riders and 185 has about 1,900. The routes are among 10 in the
Continued from Page 4
county to be altered. Public hearings were held in late January to discuss the changes. For more about the changes and MARTA routes, visit itsmarta.com.
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addicts or the mentally ill. Hames said, in North Fulton, it can simply be having no job that lands you on the streets. “One man has several degrees and had no job,” Hames said. “Another is a 57-year-old woman who has been overqualified for jobs, but has mobility problems.” These people want to work but can’t find the right employment, she said. Thus no housing. “People see the homeless on the street and wonder where they come from. But these people are from this community,” Hames said. Sometimes pride keep someone from asking for help. “They get in the way of their own success,” Hames said. “Some of them say they can [get out of homelessness] themselves. Others are so broken they are ready for help.” Eventually, they have to want to change, she said. Until then, they will be counted each year. “Our community has always been generous when it understands the need,” Duffy said. “This particular population is hidden and not acknowledged, but just ignoring it won’t make it go away.”
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NEWS
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 7
Police, DA confront heroin ‘epidemic’ in N. Fulton Use, overdoses of drug rise rapidly By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. — President Barack Obama announced Feb. 2 that he would ask Congress for $1.1 billion over the next two years to fight what he called a growing heroin problem. According to a new report from the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, the problem isn’t just growing nationwide, it’s growing in North Fulton. In a report released Jan. 15 titled, “A Window of Opportunity: Heroin in North Fulton County,” local community activists, police, attorneys and doctors detail a sharp rise in the use and abuse of heroin in the Atlanta metro area, specifically North Fulton. Numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention paint a stark picture. Since 2001, there has been a six-fold increase in the total number of deaths nationwide from heroin, primarily in men, from less than 2,000 nationwide to more than 10,000
in 2014. Heroin-related deaths have quadrupled since 2000, and overdoses from all drugs now take more lives each year than car crashes. Heroin and opioid drugs are now responsible for 44 deaths per day nationwide. The epidemic is particularly profound in the Midwest and New England, especially Vermont. In January 2014, the Vermont governor spent the entirety of his State of the State address describing the heroin crisis in his state. Heroin deaths in that state doubled from 2012 to 2013. Closer to home, the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office recorded a total of four heroin deaths in 2010, as compared to 31 in 2013 and 77 in 2014. Trends suggest that heroin overdose cases recorded in the Grady Hospital Emergency Department in 2015 will almost double 2013 overdose rates. According to numbers listed in the Fulton report, the majority of these deaths were from North Fulton and Atlanta. South Fulton had only one death. The vast majority of those who died were white.
Heroin use by the numbers • Heroin use more than doubled among young adults ages 18-25 in the past decade • More than 9 in 10 people who used heroin also used at least one other drug • 45 percent of people who used heroin were also addicted to prescription opioid painkillers • Heroin-related overdose deaths (per 100,000 people) have climbed 286 percent between 2002 and 2013 • Heroin use has increased 109 percent among those aged 18-25 and 114 percent among non-Hispanic whites between 2002 and 2013, as measured by incidence among 100,000 people • People who are addicted to prescription opioid painkillers are 40 percent more likely to be addicted to heroin Source: CDC
How does this happen? As stated in the report, the primary causes of heroin abuse are the use of other drugs, especially marijuana, but also a prior use of opiate painkillers. The report’s authors note it is the abuse of painkillers in the northern suburbs that has helped cause the current epidemic. While political and public safety efforts in recent years
have targeted an abuse of prescription painkillers, such as by closing “pill mills,” those drugs became harder to obtain and their cost has gone up. Into this gap in the market came heroin, a cheaper substitute. Heroin is an extremely dangerous drug in that it is highly addictive, it
See HEROIN, Page 33
OPINION
8 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
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S‘no’w more blizzards, please There are many reasons my family chose to relocate to Alpharetta more than 20 years ago. When my dad was offered a job here, my parents weighed their KATHLEEN STURGEON options and chose this city because Reporter kathleen@appenmediagroup.com of the excellent schools, the attractions and culture around Atlanta and, probably most importantly, the weather. “Hotlanta” doesn’t often freeze or even get much snow, maybe two inches or less during an average year. Therefore, when we do have an infrequent, substantial winter storm, it often turns into a deadly situation with ice and the city getting shut down for days. But, for most of the year, we enjoy wet and cool winter weather. Sometimes we even go years without any sort of “snowpocalypse.” This is something I may have taken for granted until recently.
... To paraphrase another Southerner, we found ourselves totally dependent on the kindness of strangers. Recently, my family and I planned a trip to watch an out-of-state basketball game. Weather reports in Georgia for that weekend were not good. Weather reports for the state we were heading to were much worse. In fact, the forecast showed a possible 8 to 14 inches of snow for our destination a couple of states away. We talked about what to do and decided to head on up and see if it was actually snowing. I blame this decision entirely on having lived in Atlanta for over two decades. As everyone here knows, we get alarming snow forecasts much more often than we get alarming snow accumulations. So, naturally, we assumed that out-of-state forecast for a foot or more of snow was yet another case of weather reporters crying wolf. Long story short, the weather reporters were not crying wolf. We discovered this on I-75 at the top of a mountain after an emergency situation left all four of us standing on the side
of the interstate in knee-deep snow. We were 200 miles from home, 100 miles from our destination, and no magical insurance agent was materializing in a poof! beside us. In an instant, all of our plans abruptly changed and, to paraphrase another Southerner, we found ourselves totally dependent on the kindness of strangers. It was terrifying, to say the least. Throughout all the bad that happened — and much bad did unfold — my family and I learned many lessons and collected stories galore to tell. Here are some hard-earned pearls of wisdom I’d like to share. • If you are traveling out of state and the forecast is for severe inclement weather, believe it. Not every place is like Atlanta. In other states, when weather forecasters say a blizzard is coming, a blizzard generally comes. • Know that, no matter how dire the situation, you really can get through it by using your wits, common sense and, if the reception is OK, your cell phone. When our insurance company was no help at all and, in fact, only made things worse, we still managed to figure things out. • Know also that such frightening events can bring people together in a sense of camaraderie. We were hardly the only victims of the weather. The day after our accident, people huddled together in our hotel lobby and told their own scary tales. And, as bad as it had been for them, they all asked if there was anything they could do to help us. • And, finally, know that even in your worst moments, you can always find good in the people around you. Kind, helpful, knowledgeable, outstanding strangers did their best to get us to safety. And they were successful. It’s events like this that really change how you think. Things could have been much, much worse and we are lucky that no one was hurt. But, still, even without physical scars, the mental wounds are there. Truly, one of the only things that made the situation better was to look up and see all the good around us. The people offering rides, food, shelter and anything else stranded motorists might need were proof that, even with so much snow, there was far more good in the world and humanity is not lost. With that said, however, here is one last piece of advice: If you’re planning a trip and the weather forecast is questionable, stay home. I certainly will.
NEWS
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 9
Roswell begins work on 2-lane roundabout One of largest in the state By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The intersection of Houze and Hembree roads will soon be home to one of the state’s largest roundabouts. Work began Jan. 28 on the two-lane roundabout in Roswell, the first to be on a state road. The total cost is to be $4.4 million and is funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation. Roswell contributed $354,000 toward engineering and design and right-of-way acquisition. The project is expected to take between two and three years to complete and will remain open throughout construction. Steve Acenbrak, city transportation director, said despite many residents’ initially dim view on roundabouts, they
are proven to be safer than signaled intersections and better at getting traffic through. “The wrecks in a roundabout are at low speed and are usually fender benders,” Acenbrak said. “A lighted intersection can have high speeds and worse accidents.” In 2011, Roswell opened its first roundabout on Grimes Bridge Road and Norcross Street. While residents were skeptical how it would help, Acenbrak said it has worked well since it was finished and traffic rarely backs up now. Acenbrak said nearly 23,000 vehicles use the Houze Road intersection daily, a third more than at Grimes Bridge. With no left-hand turn lanes, traffic easily backs up in all directions. Nearby residents voiced concerns that, while this intersection may get better, intersections both up and down the street will now get backed up. “We are paradise with traffic,” said Mayor Jere Wood. “Traffic is our biggest complaint in North Fulton.” With the new two-lane roundabout,
The proposed roundabout at Houze and Hembree roads will have two lanes. It is scheduled to open in two years.
Wood said “we are willing to take a risk to make things better. “It’s time for a change,” he said.
For up to date information on Roswell construction projects, visit roswellgov.com/conezone.
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COMMUNITY
10 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
Milton to host ‘Jog for a Cause’ Feb. 27 MILTON, Ga. -- The City of Milton will bring the 13th annual Jog for a Cause to the community as part of the 7th annual Milton Mayor’s Run. Applications and sponsorship packets for the 2016 Milton Mayor’s Run presents Jog for a Cause, to be held at 7:30 a.m. Feb. 27 at Freedom Park, are now available. Runners can sign up online through Active.com. “We are excited to partner and host Jog for a Cause again this year,” said Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood. “I can’t wait to see everyone out there with us on Deerfield Parkway, staying fit, having fun and raising money for a great cause.” “As a founding member of the Milton Mayor’s Run and a Milton resident, I am thrilled we could partner again with the city to host Jog for a Cause,” said Dr. Greg Cabrera of North Point Pediatrics. “We have raised over $250,000 in thirteen years to fight childhood cancer and can’t wait to get to work and raise more money in 2016.” The partnership with Jog for a Cause is an opportunity for North
Fulton residents to not only be active with the mayor, but benefit the community. The race will follow the same route as in years past, and like last year, begin and end at Milton’s Freedom Park located at the corner of Deerfield Parkway and Webb Road, near Milton City Hall, said Courtney Spriggs, Milton’s public outreach coordinator. It includes a 5K race and tot trot. Cost for participation is $25 if received before Feb. 14 and $30 after. That fee includes a quality, moisture-wicking T-shirt with the race logo and plenty of food and fluids after the race. The 5K race will circle Deerfield Parkway, meaning it will be flat and fast. Awards will go to the 5K Male and Female Open and Masters and to the top three finishers in the various age groups. The race also serves as a Peachtree qualifier. —Jonathan Copsey
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ROSWELL, Ga. -- For one resident, filing her taxes early helped her win $1,000. Sandy Springs resident Desiree Lightfoot was named one of 1,000 winners of the H&R Block nationwide contest running through tax season. Lightfoot said that, every year, she gets her taxes done at the H&R Block office on Ga. 9, just north of Mansell Road. This year, as in past years, she met with her tax advisor, Bert Goode, who helped her get the most bang for her buck. That was on Jan.
18. Four days later, Lightfoot received an email saying she had won $1,000 in the contest. “I first thought was it was a scam,” she laughed and said, and ignored the email. It was only when she called the office to verify the email that she realized she had indeed won. “I can’t think of anybody better to win,” Goode said. Nationwide, H&R Block is giving away $1,000 a day to 1,000 people who file their taxes with the firm. The contest runs until Feb. 15. Each person who has filed will be entered into the daily drawing until winners are selected. Goode said this encourages people to file early. The Roswell H&R Block is located at 11060 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 118.
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12 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
New January Eagle Scouts for the Northern Ridge District announced NORTH FULTON, Ga. -- The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review on Jan. 28, 2016. These are Scouts who passed their Eagle Board of Reviews, held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Spencer Miller, from Crew 347, was sponsored by Milton Ward of Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. His project was the design and construction of a large planter box, benches and a walkway to help create a memorial for those who have passed away at West Forsyth High School. William Chalmers, from Troop 27, was sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. His project was the design and construction of three picnic tables for the Sugarmill Homeowners Association. Emmanuel Murray-Williams, from Troop 87, was sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. His project was the design and construction of a fence to separate the basketball area from the rest of the property, as well as laying down new mulch around the new fence, for Homestretch, a shelter for abused women and children. Kevin Duke, from Troop 841, was sponsored by St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. His project was the refurbishment of the bleachers and benches at the baseball field at Roswell Area Park. Joseph Aucoin, from Troop 10, was sponsored by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of a staircase to the pond at
The newest Boy Scouts in the Northern Ridge Boy Scout District are, from left, Spencer Miller, William Chalmers, Emmanuel Murray-Williams, Kevin Duke, Joseph Aucoin, Cameron Webb and Samuel Stokes. Northview High School. Cameron Webb, from Troop 69, was sponsored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church. His project was the collection of over 600 puzzles for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Hospitals.
Samuel Stokes, from Troop 429, was sponsored by Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. His project was the collection of over 100 sports items for Word of Life Camp, located in Panama. —Jonathan Copsey
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14 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
COMMUNITY
Students seek to help kids with cancer Flamingos, fundraisers to go to ‘Lighthouse’
A group of Alpharetta High School students want to raise money to help children with cancer. They are Grayson Beck, Chris Falcon, Isabella Filos, Grace Fragle, Matthew Lynch and Anna Wadsworth.
Fundraising efforts for Lighthouse include
ALPHARETTA, Ga. -- If you see a flock of pink flamingos in the yards in and around Windward, Glen Abbey and Kimball Farms don’t be alarmed. No, the birds are not migrating through. Instead, they are to help some residents raise money to help children with cancer. A group of sophomore students from Alpharetta High School will spend a week volunteering at Lighthouse Family Retreat during spring break in April. The students – who include Grayson Beck, Chris Falcon, Isabella Filos, Grace Fragle, Matthew Lynch and Anna Wadsworth – will be led by group leaders from North Point Community Church. Lighthouse serves families living through childhood cancer at seaside retreats, enabling them to laugh, restore family relationships and find hope in God. Their week-long retreats are held in homes along the Florida Panhandle between Destin and Panama City Beach. Upwards of 12 families attend each retreat, where they are served by volunteers, who are completely dedicated to providing daily responsibilities
Feb. 16 - Mari’s Cucina and Social House, 2100 Ray Moss Connector, Johns Creek A percentage of all proceeds will be donated from lunch, dinner and takeout for the day. March 6 at 2 p.m. - A car wash and bake sale will be held at 2090 Lake Windward Drive in Alpharetta. for them, including meals, housekeeping and general pampering so they can leave the chaotic world of childhood cancer behind and focus on having fun, relaxing and just being together. In an effort to raise funds for this trip, the students have been “flocking” yards with pink flamingos. The idea is simple - a friend makes a donation and then gives the name of someone who they would like to be flocked and then that person makes a donation and gives a name and the birds continue to land
See FLAMINGOS, Page 44
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Halcyon means idyllic, affluent, joyful, carefree and prosperous. PATRICK LEONARD, a principal of RocaPoint Partners
16 | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016
Forsyth County breaks ground on $370M Halcyon New mixed-use expansion planned off exit 12 on Ga. 400 By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County’s very own mixed-use development broke ground Feb. 5 as the community welcomed in the beginning of the project named Halcyon. Halcyon, by real estate groups RocaPoint Partners and The Georgetown Company, is a $370 million development off Exit 12 on Ga. 400. It is expected to open fall 2017. Phase one plans include 125,000 square feet of retail space. The commercial village will include a movie or entertainment venue, gourmet market, outdoor outfitter, up to 10 local and regional full-service and fast-casual restaurants, a boutique fitness club
This map shows Halcyon in relation to Avalon and the Collection at Forsyth.
This rendering shows the central square area at Halcyon. and service retail. Up to 65,000 square feet of loft offices and built-to-suit spaces are included in phase one of the village, as well as a 110-room hotel developed by Tharaldson Hospitality, a ground-up hotel developer. When complete, the project will have two hotels and more than 360,000 square feet of office and retail. In addition, the development’s forsale residences include 87 single-family units and 155 townhomes with prices starting in the high $400s. There will also be 448 luxury apartments. In total, there will be more than 3,600 residents who will live within a half-mile walk of Halcyon’s commercial village. Patrick Leonard, a principal of RocaPoint Partners, said they are not trying to be a direct competitor of nearby Avalon in Alpharetta. Instead they are trying to be something different. Mainly they focused on the blank-slate location that would drive in lots of traffic and different demographics, he said. After locating a space, branding was next and Leonard said their creative
team came up with something unique by dubbing the development Halcyon. “Halcyon means idyllic, affluent, joyful, carefree and prosperous,” Leonard said. “We think that’s a great definition for what we can do here. The background is a Greek myth, a tale of love that creates prosperity. Relative to this location, we think it’s and market a good symbol of what we can do. This whole concept came together perfectly to what we’re trying to do here.” The team then came up with a strategy that focused on a few key points: balance of the demographics and structural appearances, respectful of nature, having a clear vision, and being active. Phase one will feature a new trailhead welcome center for Forsyth’s Big Creek Greenway. County governments are working together to connect the existing Forsyth and North Fulton segments, creating a continuous, nearly 40-mile trail system. Along with the greenway access, Halcyon will offer two miles of nature trails going through the 50-plus acres of community green space. Forsyth County Planning Commissioner Jayne Iglesias stressed the last point by explaining this development will one day connect to the greenway trail. “The other mixed-use developments don’t provide that connectivity to anything close to this,” Iglesias said. T:\ADS_2015\NFAYP The location sat dormant for about
six years, according to Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Pete Amos. Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce President James McCoy said this location is “the heart and soul of the business community in Forsyth County. Seventy-five percent of the jobs in the community are on a very short stretch of McFarland Parkway.” The future hotel here will help when sports tournaments are held in the county, as there are not enough rooms now in Forsyth, Amos said. “They’re going to bring a new and exciting development to this area we haven’t known before,” Amos said. “We look forward to having a real live-workplay community in our county for the first time that the people don’t have to wander far from here, but spend all their tax dollars right here in this spot.” Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills compared Forsyth to 20 other highly populated counties in the state, and noted Forsyth has the highest graduation rate and composite SAT score and lowest unemployment rate and crime index. While there is much to be proud of, she said, the county has to do something to maintain that, including having quality developments like Halcyon. “You can’t have the best of everything and maintain that without having projects like this,” Mills said. Mentioning a recent visit to Avalon, where she saw shoppers spending money they could have been spending in Forsyth County, she said Halcyon will soon make that possible. “That way we will be able to keep taxes lower, build more parks, extend trails, build more libraries and roads because they cost so much money. We’ll be able to do all those things that citizens demand because we have projects like this one.”
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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 17
Home values up, inventory Managing customer 40 UNDER 40: Beckie Hawkins tight in N. Fulton, Forsyth expectations It should be no secret that housing values have soared over the last four years, but what is less known is that so have mortgage payments. In the last year, housing values went GEOFF SMITH up more than 7 perAssurance Financial, cent around metro gsmith@lendtheway.com Atlanta. This would take a house that sold in 2014 for $400,000 and push the price up to $428,000, increasing the monthly mortgage payment by $137. If you look at the Ga. 400 corridor alone, you will see values increasing at various levels, including 7 percent in Milton, 6 percent in parts of Alpharetta, 5 to 6 percent in parts of Forsyth and 5 to 6.5 percent throughout Roswell. Values continue to rise because there are very few houses in the market compared to the number of people who are looking to buy houses. Metro Atlanta added almost 90,000 jobs last year and that growth is expected to continue. It was recently named the sixth-best American city in terms of projected job growth. So people will continue to move here and capacity is low. As many of you see around North Fulton and Forsyth, homebuilders are trying to do their part in adding inventory to the market. But they are facing a labor shortage, which is slowing the building process and increasing the cost of construction. Before the downturn in 2007, Atlanta’s construction market was way overinflated with too many people building too many homes. Then, for several years there really wasn’t anything to build. Now that the market is coming back, builders are having to outbid each other to get people to build their homes. Yes, you are seeing new developments going up all over North Fulton
and Forsyth. But these new developments are nothing like the pre-recession developments. The pre-recession developments had hundreds, sometimes thousands, of homes in them. The ones we see today, with the exception of a 400-home community in Forsyth County, have maybe 20-40 homes in them. So that puts us in a seller’s market. Which means sellers are sitting on their thrones giving thumbs-ups and thumbs-downs to desperate buyers. Buyers are bidding against each other, which means sellers are getting list price. When this happens, this gives new sellers higher-priced comparables to use in their appraisals, so they price their homes even higher. As inventory stays low and the Atlanta job market stays hot, you can expect home values to keep soaring upward. If you couple that with an increase in mortgage interest rates, you will see a sizeable increase in the monthly payment for the home you are putting off buying until next year. November 2012 was the absolute best time to buy a home during the last 20 years. Interest rates and home values both bottomed out that month. A house that today is worth $394,000 was then worth $318,000, and interest rates were around 3.3 percent. The mortgage payment on that house back then would have been $1,115 a month. Today it’s closer to $1,500. Interest rates are an enigma right now. Despite predictions that they will increase, they keep dropping. But, when you think about housing values, there is no better time to buy than right now.
Are you meeting the expectations that your customers have with your small business, and the products and services you provide? How are you managing the expectations of your DICK JONES customers to ensure Founder & President Jones Simply Sales you can either meet or exceed their expectations? The best way to retain customers is to meet their expectations, and managing their expectations is a key component to meeting them. So how do you manage the expectations of your customers? For starters, make promises that you can deliver on. If you tell a customer you’ll get back to them within an hour of receiving a voice mail from them, that’s most likely something you won’t consistently be able to do. Conveying a more realistic time (like 24 hours) not only sets the expectation with your customers that they can count on getting a call back in a day, it’s also achievable. Overpromising and underdelivering leads to customer complaints, dissatisfaction, and potentially losing a customer. There are two easy solutions. Number one, don’t make promises that you can’t deliver; and number two, if your customer expects something you know you can’t deliver, manage their expectations. You can spend a lot of time, effort and money to consistently meet the expectations your customers have, and managing their expectations will help you to have a realistic opportunity to do this on a consistent basis. Managing customer expectations will improve customer satisfaction. Happy customers will do more business with you, and are also more likely to recommend your business to others, both of which will help you grow your small business.
Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial focusing on residential home loans for refinances and home purchases. 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
YARD SIGNS
Editor’s note: The North Atlanta Business Post, an Appen Media Group publication, recently recognized 40 individuals under the age of 40 with outstanding accomplishments in their professional or extracurricular lives. Each week for the next 40 weeks, we will publish a profile showcasing one of these individuals. Visit NorthAtlanta BusinessPost.com for more info.
Age: 31 Title/Company: Communications & Vision Strategy with Roswell Inc Beckie Hawkins likes to play her part in Roswell Inc. Keeping things “fun and humorous” while being a team player are important, if not always easy. She grew up in Marietta with stints in Ohio and West Virginia. Theater played a large part in her edHAWKINS ucation and growing up, as she was invariably part of one troupe or another and even earned a theater degree. Unusually, this helped with her current role at Roswell Inc, she said, where she handles communications. “It was one of the best decisions I ever made. I learned valuable lessons that can be applied to everyday life and obstacles, such as team building, public speaking, improvisation, flexibility, process and design,” Hawkins said. Coming up with communications strategies is like putting on a play. “You start with the end vision of what the play needs to communicate and you begin to mold that into rehearsals and production elements until you have a solid piece of art,” she said. When not working, Hawkins likes to be outdoors – hiking with her dog, biking and paddling. She also volunteers her time with local children’s theater and teaching girls how to mountain bike.
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18 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
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Pura Enchilada Taqueria: A taste of authentic Mexico Enterprising chef Amador Gutierrez has winning formula for success By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Amador Gutierrez did not plan to be a cook while he was growing up. He just spent all of his time learning to cook from his mother and grandmother. Now the owner of the truly authentic Mexican restaurant Pura Enchilada Taqueria at 11550 Jones Bridge Road, Gutierrez began at an early age helping his mother, who owned a café in Mexico. “I learned my way around the kitchen when I was just a little boy,” he said. “My mother and my grandmother always are cooking. I always helped. My mom still cooks.” Growing up in the United States, Gutierrez worked for several big companies, but his dream was to do what he does best. His repertoire in the kitchen continued to grow after a friend offered him the opportunity to manage cafes in office buildings and run a small restaurant in Lawrenceville.
“It was a good partnership. I provided the food and he taught me the business side of making it work,” Gutierrez said. In 2012, Gutierrez opened his own restaurant in Pendergrass, Ga., which was an immediate success. Within a year he had tripled the size of his place. That inspired him and his wife, Ysenia, to open a second location. Their search led them to their Johns Creek location, a 120-seat restaurant on Jones Bridge Road. As you might expect, they serve authentic Mexican food made from scratch. Gutierrez scrupulously searches for the finest, freshest ingredients to start the day. Pura Enchilada offers a full-service dining area or, for those on the go, a build-your-own station similar to Moe’s. When the weather turns a little warmer, patrons will enjoy the spacious patio. “My goal is to keep re-investing and making the concept better,” he said. Already he’s taken the 3,600-square-foot restaurant and added a deck to give him nearly 5,000 square feet. He and his partner, Susan Sanchez, plan to add bakery items to the menu. But for now they want to grow slowly.
Pura’s tacos are fresh, spicy and a delight with a choice of beef, pork, chicken or birria (goat meat). So just a few desserts grace the menu, such ice cream chimichanga or a capirotada – sweetbread soaked in vanilla milk seasoned with cinnamon and sugar and cooked in butter to a golden brown. Behind the bar, Pura Enchilada will have seasonal margaritas with strawberries and fresh-squeezed limes, lemons and oranges. “When you drink it, you bite into the fruit also. It has a completely different taste,” he said. “Muy delicioso.” Since opening Jan. 23, business had been good, he said. But while he works to make Pura Enchilada better,
HATCHER HURD/HERALD
Pura Enchilada Taqueria owner Amador Gutierrez wants to grow his concept slowly, but everywhere he’s tried it people have wanted more of his food. he is already thinking ahead – where his next location will be.
Montague earns international designation for luxury home marketing ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Diana Montague with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty in the North Atlanta office has earned the prestigious certified luxury home marketing specialist designation in recognition of her experience, knowledge and expertise in the luxury home market. “Diana Montague is an example of a real estate professional who has worked to develop market knowledge and special skills and competencies necessary to provide exceptional service in the fine homes and estates marketplace,” said The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing President Laurie Moore-Moore, upon announcing Montague’s designation. “Affluent buyers and sellers can turn to sales professionals who have this designation and be confident that they have special expertise and experience in the luxury home marketplace.” “I am committed to providing outstanding service to my clients,” said Montague “the certified luxury home marketing specialist designation is evidence of my ability to meet the needs of affluent buyers and sellers.” Montague is an award-winning real estate professional who has gone through special training and met performance standards in the upper-tier market. She has been in real estate since 2009 and specializes in the North Atlanta market. She is also a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club and a founding member and top producer for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty. Contact Montague at 404-630-6002 or dianamontague@ atlantafinehomes.com.
JONATHAN COPSEY/HERALD
Minuteman Press opens in Alpharetta Business: Minuteman Press Owners: James and Kathy Guidry Opened: January 2016 What: A combination of the quality associated with a large commercial printer and the convenience of a quick printer come together with us. We print everything, from a simple one-color
price list to a complicated four-color brochure or catalogue. Address: 6300 Atlanta Highway, Suite 102, Alpharetta, GA 30004 Phone: 470-719-9806 Website: Alpharetta-ga.minutemanpress.com
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 19
20 || February February 10, 10, 2016 2016 || Forsyth Milton Herald 20 Herald| |NorthFulton.com ForsythHerald.com
CALENDAR
“EVER AFTER: A JOURNEY FROM NEVERLAND TO WONDERLAND”
The Roswell Dance Starz will present “Ever After: A Journey from Neverland to Wonderland.” Featuring scenes from some of the most beloved children’s tales of all time as well as more recent Disney hits, this magical performance is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. Friday, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. Performances also Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Visit roswellgov.com/everafterll for more info. Looking to get the word out about your event? Email us with photo and description of your event to calendar@appenmediagroup.com.
EVENTS: 15TH ANNUAL ROSWELL ROOTS FESTIVAL
What: One of the largest and most comprehensive celebrations of black history and culture in the Southeast, the festival will feature a variety of events. When: Activities through Feb. 29 Where: Various locations throughout Roswell More info: roswellroots.com
SOUTH FORSYTH PROM FASHION SHOW
What: South Forsyth High School’s DECA chapter and marketing students will host a prom fashion show to benefit Debbie’s Dream Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to raising awareness about stomach cancer. When: Thursday, Feb. 11, 6-8:30 p.m. Where: SFHS Performing Arts Center, 585 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041 More info: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ SFHS
ROSWELL STUDIO OFFERS VALENTINE’S FUN
What: brilliant., a local custom design studio and retail jewelry store in historic Roswell, is celebrating the start of Valentine’s weekend with giveaways, complimentary refreshments, a fun photo booth and more. When: Thursday, Feb. 11, 5-8 p.m. Where: brilliant., 934 Canton St., Roswell, GA 30075 More info: 770-649-1901, brilliantatlanta.com
FORSYTH COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION
What: Register now for adult softball leagues. All games and meetings are held at Central Park. All games are played Monday – Thursday unless otherwise noted. When: Register by Friday, Feb. 12 More info: parks.forsythco.com/HowDo-I/Register-for-Programs, 770-7812215 or jnmartin@forsythco.com
VALENTINE’S NIGHT OUT AT THE CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS
What: Share your love of puppets with your true love. Celebrate famous and infamous couples throughout history as well as other romantic activities while enjoying beer and wine from the bar and complimentary desserts. Adults only. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 7-11 p.m. Where: Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 More info: 404-873-3391
NEIGHBOR LOVE ADOPT-A-SENIOR FOR VALENTINE’S
When: Neighbor Love is hosting a Valentine’s party and giving gift bags to seniors at four nursing homes in metro Atlanta, including one in Roswell. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 9:30 a.m.noon Where: Roswell Nursing and Rehab, 1109 Green St., Roswell More info: To contribute to Valentine’s gift bags for seniors, go to adoptasenior. net
FOOD LOVER’S VALENTINE DINNER DEMONSTRATION
What: Whether it is food for lovers, or lovers of food, this Publix Aprons Cooking school menu is sure to arouse the palate and spark a fire. Watch and learn as a chef prepares baked oysters with caramelized fennel and tarragon butter; seared scallops with roasted tomato basil vinaigrette; chateaubriand with asparagus risotto; triple chocolate cream with strawberry jam. When: When: Friday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Also Feb. 14. Cost: $55 Where: Publix, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta More info: Publix.com/aprons/schools/ Alpharetta.
ALPHARETTA/ ROSWELL NEWCOMER’S CLUB
What: February’s general meeting will spotlight creative arts: showing and teaching how to knit, crochet, needle-
point and other creative arts. When: Wednesday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. Where: Bill Johnson Community Room, Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075 More info: arnewcomers.org
Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell 30076 More info: 404-613-4050
COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATIONS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FOR RODAN AND FIELDS
What: Atlanta Attorney/Author Zoe Hicks explains the difference between traditional wills and ethical wills. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 10:30 a.m.– noon Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 30022 More info: 770-360-8820
What: An evening of cocktails and conversations to learn how to leverage two of the biggest names in skin care. All consultants are welcome from the North Atlanta area. When: Thursday, Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m. Where: Laurel Springs Clubhouse, 5355 Laurel Oak Drive, Suwanee, GA 30024 Cost: Free More info: amyross.myrandf.biz or email questions to rossclanamy@comcast.net
LIBRARY EVENTS: For a complete list of North Fulton events, go to afpls.org/events For a complete list of Forsyth events, go to forsythpl.org/eventCalendar/eventCalendar.aspx
COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES IN PALLIATIVE/HOSPICE CARE
What: Courtesy of AmityCare, join us for explanations of alternative therapies available to those in palliative or hospice care. When: Friday, Feb. 12, 10:30 a.m. Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton More info: 404-613-4402
ALPHARETTA SCRAPPERS
What: Scrapbook lovers learn ways to make your scrapbooks better while bonding with others who share their enthusiasm. When: Thursday, Feb. 11, 2 p.m. Where: Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta 30009 More info: 404-613-6735
FRIENDS OF THE MILTON LIBRARY HISTORY BARN BOOK SALE
What: FOML Historic Barn Book Sales are held the 2nd Saturday of every month. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friends only presale starts at 9 a.m. Where: The Historic Barn at the Milton Library, 845 Mayfield Road, Milton 300009 More info: facebook.com/FOMLGA/
DIVORCE BOOT CAMP FOR WOMEN
What: A panel meeting/discussion to assist divorcing women go through the complicated and frightening process. Adults. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 10 a.m.
LOVE YOUR FAMILY DAY: “ETHICAL WILLS - BEYOND MONEY: LEAVING VALUES, BELIEFS AND LEGACIES”
ACT PRACTICE TEST
What: Huntington invites high school sophomores-seniors to take a practice ACT to evaluate their skills. Includes complementary review session the following week at Huntington to explain the results. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 2-6 p.m. Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402
GRIEF RECOVERY: A PERSONAL JOURNEY FOUR-PART SERIES
What: Join Melissa Heustess for the initial class of a four-part series on grief recovery. When: Tuesday, Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m. Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402
HEALTH AND WELLNESS LECTURE
What: Dr. Joe Esposito is a chiropractor and nutritionist whose philosophy is to teach you how to live a long and healthy life. Dr. Sean M. Daner, DC, Chiropractic specialist will also join in on the discussion. When: Tuesday, Feb. 16, 6 p.m. Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402
PREVENTING FRAUD
What: Officer Noblett, Milton Police Department, discusses how to protect and prevent fraud from happening. When: Thursday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m. Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton 30009 More info: 404-613-4402
HARP CONCERT
What: Nationally renowned Harpist Lisa Handman will perform classical favorites. Ages 8 and up. When: Thursday, Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m. Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta 30009 More info: 404-613-6735
MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: ROSWELL VISITORS CENTER FEATURES ARTISTS’ WORKS
What: Works by two of North Fulton’s
highly regarded artists, Joan Hilliard and Barry Etris, will be on exhibit, with originals available for purchase as well as a selection of prints. Spruill Arts Student & Instructor When: Through February Where: Roswell Visitors Center, 617 Atlanta St., Roswell More info: visitroswellga.com
JAMES DAVIS: RESIDENT ARTIST EXHIBIT
What: This exhibition is a collection of objects and drawings providing a visual representation of the artist’s life. When: Through March 4 Where: Art Center West Gallery, inside Leita Thompson Park, 1355 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com
CALENDAR Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958
OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: ATLANTA BALLET’S “MOULIN ROUGE” What: Get up close and personal with the bohemian world of Paris in its heyday and the spiritual birthplace of the cancan – Moulin Rouge, the most famous cabaret in history. Experience the explosive story of young love and rising stardom set against a glamorous, sizzling Parisian backdrop. When: Through Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta More info: cobbenergycentre.com
ATLANTA AUDUBON SOCIETY’S GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT AND GUIDED WALK
“LOVE IS A VERB” SCREENING
What: “Love Is A Verb” is an examination of a social movement of Sufi-inspired Muslims that began in Turkey in the 1960s and now reaches across the globe. The group is called Hizmet, the Turkish word for service, or the Gulen Movement after its inspiration, leader and beloved teacher Fethullah Gulen, a man that Time Magazine named one of the most influential leaders in the world in 2013. When: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11 Where: Regal Cinemas Avalon, 3950 1 St., Alpharetta Cost: $12 per person More info: tugg.com/events/82771#
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., 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
ForsythHerald.com NorthFulton.com| |Forsyth Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 21
What: Discover the urban bird habitat at Blue Heron Nature Preserve, the home base for Atlanta Audubon Society. This is an excellent field trip for beginning birders. Families are welcomed. Binoculars will be available on site to borrow. No registration required. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 8:30-10 a.m. Where: Blue Heron Nature Preserve, 4055 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342 More info:atlantaaudubon.org/fieldtrips
VALENTINE’S IN THE GARDEN
What: Atlanta Botanical Garden is offering a Valentine’s evening at the most romantic spot in town! Enjoy festive cocktails, decadent desserts, dancing and much more at while exploring Orchid Daze: Nature’s Wonders. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 7-11 p.m. Where: Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 More info: atlantabg.org
SIX STRING SOCIAL CLUB CONCERT SERIES
What: The Six String Social Club Concert Series will present Richard Gilewitz in concert. When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Where: Woodstock Community Church, 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock, GA More info: www.sixstringsocialclub.com
ATLANTA BALLET’S “THE SLEEPING BEAUTY”
What: A world premiere retelling of the classic fairy tale from artistic director John McFall that is perfect for younger audience members, 12-years-old and younger. When: When: Saturday, Feb. 13, 2 p.m. Performance also Feb. 14 Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. More info: www.cobbenergycentre.com
Hiking the Bowmans Island Trail Last week we visited the Buford Trout Hatchery, a great destination for the entire family. But the hatchery is also the southern end of a great hiking trail — the BowSTEVE HUDSON mans Island Trail, Get Outside Georgia, Chattahoochee Media Group northernmost trail in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Despite its name, this trail is not actually on Bowmans Island. Instead, it simply passes near the island as it follows the west bank of the Chattahoochee upriver for more than two miles from the hatchery to Buford Dam. You can access this trail at either end. The southern trailhead is just outside the hatchery gate and is marked by several large rocks and by a “fish” sign (anglers often use the trail to access the river). When hiking, park along the side of the road outside the hatchery so you don’t get locked inside if your hike stretches past the hatchery’s closing time. The northern trailhead is within Lower Pool Park at Buford Dam, accessed via Lower Pool West Road off Buford Dam Road. There’s a day-use fee at this park; CRNRA passes are valid here, too. But note the park’s hours. You don’t want to return from a hike and find your car on the wrong side of a closed gate. How’s the hiking? Except for some moderate terrain near the hatchery, it’s mostly level and soothingly scenic. The trail can be hiked in either direction, though this overview starts at the hatchery and goes north (upriver) toward the dam. From the hatchery trailhead, you’ll first traverse several hundred yards of upland trail. At the first major trail intersection, turn right. You’ll soon intersect a gravel road; turn left there and follow it north. After a half mile or so you’ll see a pole-mounted warning siren. It alerts fishermen and other river users to impending releases of water from Buford Dam, and it’ll raise the hairs on the back of your neck if you’re near it when it goes off.
The gravel road ends at the siren, but a foot trail continues into the woods. At that point you’re roughly even with the southern end of Bowmans Island. Continuing on the main trail (ignore the spur trails), you’ll traverse some lush bottomland. It’s a great place for spring wildflowers. Ferns are everywhere, too, and in spring and summer the overwhelming impression is one of emerald green. Eventually the trail swings away from the river. You may hear a small creek splashing over rocks; soon thereafter, the main trail bends back toward the Hooch as you near Lower Pool Park. At trail’s end, the path crosses a final bridge over a creek and then ends at the first parking area off Lower Pool West Road. What’s at Lower Pool Park? The highlight is Buford Dam, with a length of more than 1,600 feet and a height approaching 200 feet. Water released from the dam generates electric power before being discharged back into the Chattahoochee through a spillway cut into solid rock. A steel pedestrian bridge crosses the spillway channel just downstream from the dam, and you can stand on the bridge and watch the fierce flow when the Corps of Engineers releases water from the dam. Seeing the dam and its spillway provides an impressive end (or beginning) to this hike. But, as your eyes scan the dam, you may see something else, too. What is it? Could it be … goats? That’s exactly what it is – and the goats of Buford Dam have become a fascinating part of the dam’s history and lore. We’ll take a closer look at them (and see how you may be able to get a closer look at them, too) next time. Info on this and other Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area hiking trails can be found in Steve Hudson’s book, “Hiking the Hooch.” Check it out at www.chattahoocheemedia.com.
22 | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016
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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 23
Hypothyroidism: Understanding How it is Diagnosed By Dr. Sean Savedoff Hypothyroidism affects an estimated 27 million people, so it is quite common. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, it is important to see your doctor to receive a diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible so that you can start feeling better. How is hypothyroidism diagnosed? Blood tests can usually confirm whether you are suffering from hypothyroidism. Here’s a bit of an anatomy explanation first. Your thyroid gland is located in your neck. It is, however, also regulated and controlled by a part of your brain, called the pituitary gland. The pituitary also receives feedback from the thyroid so it is kind of like they are always communicating with one another. There is also another part of the brain called the hypothalamus, and it also regulates and works with the pituitary. Therefore, it takes all three working together – the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the thyroid– to have a properly-functioning thyroid system. This is called the HPT Axis.
So when you go to your doctor, there are many blood tests that can be performed. It is helpful for you to know all of the different types available. Here are most of them: 1. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) SAVEDOFF – This is usually the most common test. Hypothyroidism can be detected if the TSH is high. This test can also be helpful in diagnosing subclinical hypothyroidism, where you have higher than normal levels of TSH, but normal levels of T3 and T4. The reason behind the TSH test is that in healthy individuals with normal, functioning thyroids, when their thyroid hormones get too low, the pituitary knows it has to make more TSH to tell the thyroid to make more of its hormones. When the pituitary receives feedback that the thyroid has made enough hormones, then it slows its production of TSH. That is how it is supposed to work. However, in the case of hypothyroidism, when the thyroid is not making enough thyroxine (T4), the pituitary tries to stimulate the thyroid to make more by producing more TSH. How-
ever, if the thyroid cannot make more T4 (depending on what is wrong with the thyroid), the pituitary keeps on making more and more TSH, resulting in higher amounts of TSH. So when high levels of TSH are seen, it could mean that the body also has low levels of T4. Which in rare cases, may mean something is wrong with your pituitary and not your thyroid. 2. Total Thyroxine (T4) – Most of the T4 in your blood is attached to a protein. About 1% is not. A total T4 test is looking at both kinds of T4 (bound and not). The free T4 (the 1%) is what affects your tissues. 3. Free Thyroxine or Free T4 – This test checks the amount of free T4 available for actual use by your body. 4. T3 Tests – There are Total T3, Free T3, and Reverse T3 tests. Like T4, T3 circulates in the blood mainly bound to proteins, but 1% is not bound. It is that 1% that is believed to be most potent in its effects at the cellular level, even in comparison to T4. In fact, your body converts T4 into T3 in your liver. How well it does this in all individuals is a matter of how well your digestive system is working. No matter what, T3 is another important blood test to consider. The Free T3 and Reverse T3 tests can also
provide valuable information. Free T3 appears to correlate best with your functioning. Reverse T3 is a controversial test that is not often done by medical doctors, because it is assumed that your body can convert T4 into T3 without problems. However, holistic practitioners, and some medical doctors, are now recognizing it as an important test. Reverse T3 is a product created when your body converts T4. It should convert it into T3, but instead it converts it into Reverse T3. This Reverse T3 is useless to your body’s cells, and cannot provide the energy they need, hence the growing diagnosis of Reverse T3 dominance in my practice. 5. Thyroid Antibodies – It is quite common for someone with hypothyroidism to have thyroid antibodies, created when the body attacks its own tissues. This is the only way to properly diagnose Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. The reason most doctors do not request this test is because even if it comes back positive, there treatment will be the same as for a standard hypothyroid case. This is why so many people complain of the there symptoms even
See HYPOTHYROID, Page 27
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24 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
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ADHD – not just in children anymore personality disorders. Adult ADHD is a valid psychiatric disorder of adulthood distinct from these other conditions. Adult attention deficit disorder differs from the childhood variant because the hyperactivity in adults may be replaced by other symptoms such as anxiety, impulsivity and inattentiveness. In fact, prior to 2002 there were no diagnostic guidelines, but there have been great advances since. Some of the symptoms that characterize Adult ADHD are:
ADHD is a relatively common psychiatric disorder among adults. The prevalence is thought to be 3.5%-5.3%, which accounts for more than 11 million cases in the United States alone. With increased public awareness, adult ADHD became a topic of great interest so clinicians should be able to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with this disorder. Etiology is still uncertain. Genetics however is believed to play a prominent role, followed in importance by acquired injuries to the brain. ADHD was widely thought to be strictly a disorder of childhood. Now there are numerous scientific papers and clinical trials that acknowledge the existence of an adult version of this disorder, which can be traced back to the younger years. Before this time ADHD in adults was known as Minimal Brain Damage or Dysfunction (MBD). Adult ADHD is associated with multiple co-morbidities such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other
1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school-work, work or other activities. 2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities. 3. Often does not seem to listen when spoke to directly. 4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand directions) 5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities. 6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (eg. School assignments, pencils, keys) 7. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli. 8. Is often forgetful in daily activities. Some children with ADHD continue to have it as adults. And many adults who have the disorder don’t know it. They PAID ADVERTORIAL
may feel that it is impossible to get organized, keep a job, or remember and keep appointments. Daily tasks such as getting up in the morning, preparing to leave the house for work, arriving at work on time, and being productive on the job can be especially challenging for adults with ADHD. These adults may have a history of failure at school, problems at work, failed relationships and traffic accidents. Like teens, adults with ADHD may seem restless and may try to complete several tasks as once, most of them unsuccessfully. They also tend to prefer “quick fixes,” rather than taking the steps needed to achieve greater rewards. On the other hand, it is important to know that ADHD can occur in high frequency with other comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other personality disorders. There is high frequency of misdiagnosis and diagnosis is usually subjective and based on behavior and clinical history. Treatment is very rewarding, there are multiple classes of medication and alternative treatment available for those who don’t respond to conventional therapy. Cognitive behavior therapy and coping strategies remain the long term treatment of choice for ADHD If you or someone you know may have Adult ADHD, call Johns Creek Family Medicine at 770-771-6591 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Zack Charkawi.
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Reversing Hair loss By Dr. Daniel Danyo of North Atlanta Hair Restoration North Atlanta Hair Restoration offers cutting-edge techniques to reverse the effects of hair follicle aging. You may automatically think that I’m talking about a new treatment for gray hair, but unfortunately there is no current cure for graying other than dying your hair. What I am talking about relates to new treatment options for reversing the hair aging process of progressive thinning and eventual hair loss. These new techniques stimulate your hair follicle stem cells to produce thicker volume and density. Before we talk about these exciting new treatment options, let’s focus on what is going on here. Hair aging is associated with decreased rate of growth, decreased activity of hair follicle stem cells, low pigment expression, decreased expression of genes around the hair, reduction in hair bulb diameter and decreased rate of growth. This occurs in most after the age of 30 and ramps up with each additional year. Those with male and female patterned balding have an acceleration of these processes. The great news is that modern day medicine is offering treatment options for all ages and most hair loss patterns. These treatments work by activating the hair follicle stem cells to produce thicker hair and reactivate dormant hair follicles to improve density. The aging process is reversed and significant improvements can be made. So what are these new treatments? To start with, Platelet Rich Plasma
(PRP) Injection therapy has become our most effective tool. PRP has received a significant amount of media attention and many of my new patients present requesting it. Platelets stimulate healing by releasing DR DANYO growth factors and other immune stimulating chemicals. During the procedure, we draw blood from your arm and spin it down in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets from the rest of your blood. They are then injected into the hair thinning regions and activated to release a concentrated amount of your own growth factors and stem cell activating chemicals. Your scalp responds with hair growth and a return to a normal growth pattern. We often combine the PRP with a medication called ACell to stimulate more stem cell activity and migration, which means better results. Other treatment options include Laser light therapy which is FDA approved. It is safe and effective in promoting hair growth and works by stimulating increased oxygenation and energy production around the stem cells. Combination therapy with PRP and ACell may provide some with the best results. For more information concerning these cutting-edge techniques and more information, give us a call at (678)845-7521 or go to our website at www.nahairrestoration.com. We provide free in-office and online consultations.
Avoid sports related injuries in spring As the weather warms, a new season begins for many sports activities and athletic competition. Young children to adults will play sports like golf, tennis, baseball and soccer in organized leagues and pickup games every day. Significant health benefits are derived from sports and recreational physical activities, but nearly 2 million otherwise healthy people suffer sports-related injuries that require medical emergency treatment every year. Almost ninety percent of all sports related injuries actually fall into one of four basic categories – elbow, shoulder, ankle and knee. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than half of those injuries are easily preventable. Be sure to start your new sports
season with proper fitting equipment, practice safe stance and training methods, and always incorporate warm-up exercises before play. If you do become injured, it is highly recommended that you see an experienced, board-certified orthopaedic specialist before undergoing any treatment. OrthoAtlanta is one of the largest orthopaedic and sports medicine practices in Atlanta with offices including Johns Creek, 678-205-4261, and Gwinnett / Lawrenceville, 678-957-0757. OrthoAtlanta offers comprehensive operative and non-operative musculoskeletal care and expertise including sport medicine, arthroscopic surgery, hip replacement, knee replacement, spine surgery, pain management and acute orthopedic urgent care. Learn more at OrthoAtlanta.com.
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 25
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26 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Choosing your orthodontist By Dr. Jeffrey Jordan of Jordan Orthodontics
• 1st Full Time Orthodontist in Alpharetta • Served Over 20,000 New Patients • Diplomat of American Board of Orthodontics • Convenient Office Hours
The person you entrust to provide your orthodontic care will deliver the smile that will be with you for important events like a first date, high school graduation, your wedding day, and from the beginning of your career until the end. This is an important decision! If you know what to look for in an Orthodontist, it can help make a difficult search easier. An Orthodontist is a specialist, trained in aligning the teeth and jaws, usually a top graduate from dental school, completing an additional two to three years of rigorous training. This instruction makes him or her uniquely qualified to deliver a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime. Only an Orthodontist can be a member of the American Association of Orthodontist or be a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics. So, look for the logo, making sure you’re getting an Orthodontist! An Orthodontist with a full time practice is more likely to be available for the reality of poking wires, broken brackets, or any other emergency situations that need to be addressed. Over the course of your treatment, your Orthodontist will evaluate your bite at each appointment, making the continuum of care unbroken. You will want to find an Orthodontist that offers convenient office
hours, including after school appointments. You will see your Orthodontist often; so, compatibility is important. Today, there are a variety of treatment options, but only an Orthodontist has the training and expertise to design a plan to achieve your desired smile. Ceramic braces deliver the esthetics of clear braces with the functionality of metal braces. For bite problems that previously required braces, Invisalign is available. Invisalign does the software imaging and the manufacturing process, but you need a qualified, certified, experienced Orthodontist to achieve great results! Here are a few helpful questions when interviewing an Orthodontist: 1)What needs to be done? 2)What are my options? 3)What are the consequences if I don’t do the treatment now? 4)How long will the treatment take? 5)What are your office hours? 6)How long have you been in practice? 7)How much will this cost? 8)How is the treatment cost determined? Whether you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself, your child or just someone you love, an Orthodontist will guide you through the process, align your teeth, correct your bite, and create a smile that you love. The laughter is up to you!
JEFFREY W. JORDAN, DMD, MSD, PC 4205 North Point Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30022
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Hearing Loss Can Start at Age 55 But Could Your Medication Be a Culprit, Too? By Amy Ledbetter, Au.D. North Fulton Ear, Nose and Throat Hearing loss does not only afflict seniors. If you or a loved one are age fifty-five or older, then natural hearing loss symptoms may have already started. Age is a natural cause of hearing loss, but there are causes leading to hearing impairment that may surprise you. Approximately 200 prescription and over-the-counter medications are ototoxic, meaning “poisonous to the ears”? Ototoxic drugs have the potential to damage the inner ear or cause balance disorders. Many ototoxic effects are temporary and go away once a medication is stopped, but some can be long term or even permanent. Which medications are ototoxic? A list of known ototoxic drugs includes: • Aspirin • Quinine • Loop diuretics (or “water pills”) • Certain antibiotics • Some anti-cancer drugs • Some anesthetics What can you do? There is no simple solution, but certain preventative measures can be implemented. • Discuss the risk versus bene-
Hypothyroid: Continued from Page 23 though they’re on the medication. Thyroxin will not address the inflammation causing the autoimmune attack on your thyroid. It only makes your TSH values look normal…. In summery, I hope this article answers some of your questions regarding the confusion about how hypothyroidism is commonly misdiagnosed. My goal is to bring to light some of the amazing lab tests out there for patients to request from their doctors and get real answers. There are some natural ways to support your thyroid, and ensure it functions optimally. By gaining an understanding of these different lab tests and there proper values, I believe
fits of ototoxic drugs with your healthcare team. • Follow medication instructions carefully. • Avoid taking multiple ototoxic drugs simultaneously, if possible. • When around environmental chemicals, ensure proper ventilation and minimize usage and exposure. Get a hearing screening Before receiving treatment with ototoxic drugs, get a hearing screening from a licensed audiologist. A hearing screening sets a baseline to measure against during your treatment. Regular hearing tests throughout treatment can help detect any changes, which you can and should share with your healthcare professional. Awareness is the first step toward treating hearing loss. Call for a COMPLIMENTARY HEARING SCREENING for yourself or a loved one: (770) 450-6508. Dr. Amy Ledbetter is the Director of Audiology at North Fulton Ear, Nose & Throat Associates. Dr. Ledbetter has been a practicing clinical audiologist for 19 years. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences in 1995 and then her Master’s degree in 1997 from the University of Southern Mississippi. In 2009, she completed her doctoral degree from the University of Florida.
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 27
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the majority of people with a thyroid disorder will be able to get a true diagnosis and see significant improvements in their symptoms. That being said, there are those who will need additional tweaks, deeper testing, and personalized changes to their diet, supplements, and lifestyle plan before they see the improvements they’re looking for. So you may want to find a doctor that practices functional medicine. A functional medical doctor can assist you with natural ways of treating the root cause of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms with medication. And this is what we do, so if you or someone you know may have a thyroid disorder and want to correct this condition, please call (770) 731-9410 or visit www.DrSavedoff.com and schedule an appointment with us today.
• Ear & Hearing • Audiology & Hearing Aids • Head & Neck • Sleep Apnea & Snoring • Nose & Sinus • Throat Conditions TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS ROSWELL 2500 Hospital Boulevard, Suite 450 Roswell, GA 30076 CUMMING 950 Sanders Rd. Cumming, GA 30041
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28 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Slow and steady decreases risk of feet impact damage By Dr. Brian S. Harley It’s great to set running goals, but when off the bat you want to run a marathon (26.2-miles) — it’s wiser to take a few steps back. Foot stress fractures are one of the most common conditions foot and ankle surgeons treat. This is especially true with first-time marathoners. With more experienced runners increasingly comparing their personal best with their running buddies, as well as the growing popularity of marathons, there has been an increase in repetitive stress injuries, including stress fractures of the foot. The issue arises when first-time marathoners enter a race with little or improper long-distance training. Inexperience along with repetitive impact on the feet can create enough stress to cause hairline fractures. Likewise, when runners quickly increase their mileage, they can be more susceptible to a stress fracture. To avoid injury, increase your running mileage by about 10 percent weekly. If you are training, make sure to rest between runs, this can help reduce the risk for a fracture. And to minimize stress injuries, wear supportive athletic shoes and slowly build your activity levels accord-
ing to your abilities. Proper footwear is also important if you suffer from flatfoot, have osteoporosis or a foot deformity. Signs of a stress fracture include: pain of the area, swelling, redness and even bruising. If left untreated, stress fractures can eventually lead to a complete break of the bone. To ensure adequate healing, early diagnosis and treatment are important. If you suspect a break, follow the RICE protocol — rest, ice, compression and elevation. And if pain and swelling last longer than a few days, make an appointment for an X-ray and diagnosis. Treatment can include rest and immobilization with casting of the foot. To stabilize a stress fracture that progressed into a full fracture, surgery may also be required. If you suspect you have a foot injury or fracture, it is best to contact a foot specialist for a complete evaluation. Dr. Brian S. Harley is a board-certified reconstructive foot and ankle surgeon at Alpharetta Foot and Ankle Specialists, affiliated with Northside Hospital. For more information, visit alpharettafootandankle.com or call 770667-4410.
NEWS
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 29
City installs first mid-block pedestrian crossing signal HAWK signal gives children a way to walk to school JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek activated Dec. 11 its first HAWK pedestrian-crossing signal (High-intensity Activated crossWalk is the not-so-easily-followed acronym) on Barnwell Road. It is near Barnwell Elementary School and intended to give children a place to cross the road to get to school. HAWK signals are push-button signals placed in mid-block instead of at intersections. Georgia law requires motorists to stop at any crosswalk to allow pedestrians to cross, but the
HAWK signal provides balance between the needs of pedestrians and those of motorists. HAWK signals are gaining popularity in Georgia, they have been installed near the Suwanee town green and on Buford Highway in DeKalb County. They have been used successfully in Arizona, Oregon, Missouri amont other states. The signals, usually mounted in pairs, are dark until activated by a pedestrian pushing a button, triggering a series of signals.
How the signal works 1. After the button is pushed, the yellow light flashes on and off, warning drivers to slow down. The red hand tells pedestrians not to walk.
2. Then, the flashing yellow light turns solid yellow, warning drivers to prepare to stop. Pedestrians should continue to wait.
3. The red lights turn solid, requiring vehicles to stop. Pedestrians will see their light go from a red hand to a walking man, indicating it’s legal to cross.
4. The two traffic lights flash red, indicating that drivers can proceed when the pedestrians have cleared the intersection. Pedestrians will see the flashing red hand and a numerical countdown to clear the road.
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30 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
COMMUNITY
Facebook posts earn Lambert principal temporary leave of absence
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BOE calls Facebook posts discriminating By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Some ill-advised and controversial Facebook posts have put Lambert High School Principal Gary Davison in hot water. He has been put on a leave of absence following a meeting DAVISON Jan. 28 with Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Jeff Bearden. The posts on Davison’s personal Facebook account were deemed blatantly offensive to Muslims. Bearden appointed Assistant Principal Pam Bibik as Lambert’s acting principal. Davison has been Lambert’s only principal since it opened in 2009. He came to the school after serving as the principal at South Forsyth High School and Settles Bridge Elementary School. According to Jennifer Caracciolo, FCS director of communications, the inflammatory posts surfaced when Lambert class of 2015 alumnus Yassin Watson posted screenshots on social media of Davison’s Facebook posts. FCS was notified of the posts Jan. 27. Some people are calling Davison’s posts inflammatory, racist, Islamophobic and politically charged. One of his posts included a picture of a cross with the words, “One nation under God, not Allah.” Davison shared a number of posts blaming world terrorism on all Muslims. He also posted on his Facebook page, “Giddy up, Governor!” in response to a statement from Gov. Nathan Deal saying Georgia will not accept Syrian refugees. “The school district values all individuals and does not tolerate discrimination,” Bearden said in a press release. Davison has released a statement apologizing. Addressing current and former students of Lambert, their parents, the school staff and the community, Davison said, “I offended many individuals and embarrassed our school. I ask for your forgiveness. I have learned a valuable lesson from these mistakes and I am committed to regaining our community’s trust.” As of press time, Davison had not responded to emails from the Forsyth Herald requesting further comment. Bearden said Davison has acknowledged the damage his personal posts
From Facebook Since this story broke Thursday, Jan.28, on the Forsyth Herald Facebook page, it has reached over 40,000 people, been shared by more than 1,300 users, and received over 60 posted comments. Here is a sampling of what readers are saying on Facebook: Karen Duffy: “Gary Davison is a man of incredible character and it makes me sick that a few people cry political correctness and hurt a good man’s name. How about hearing from the majority of students and parents who love Gary and have for many years? Our children were blessed to have him as both elementary & high school principal and consider him one of the strongest role models in their lives.” Claire Bee: “Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences of that speech ... say all the bigoted stuff you want, but the first amendment doesn’t protect you from losing your job.” Ada Basilone DeRosa: “This is not discrimination. Discrimination is when you purposely don’t put a qualified child on a sports team or allow them to join a club because you don’t like them because of their race, religion, or condition.” Deborah Smith Author: “Sadly, his racism is very well suited to his community. That’s obvious. Let me guess--if he’d posted that he’s an atheist, and that he’s got severe problems with fanatical Christians--you’d all be screaming for his head. BTW, Freedom of Speech does not and never has prohibited an employer from telling an employee to stop being a bigoted moron in public.”
have done to his position as the leader of Lambert and is committed to addressing those concerns. “The school district is also committed to assessing its ongoing efforts with staff and students to celebrate the diversity of our community and promote acceptance of everyone,” Bearden said. The firestorm erupted when Watson, 19, who now attends Georgia Tech, said he learned of Davison’s posts by “stumbling upon” them. He said he decided to contact the district in part because of the county’s influx of minority students who, he said, are “being oppressed.” “Many staff are incredible people,” Watson said. “But sadly the people who make the overarching decisions seek to push ‘controversy.’ “They push justice under the rug,” Watson continued. “The road to having
See LAMBERT, Page 32
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 31
32 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
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Continued from Page 30 a safe environment will require very uncomfortable change.” The fallout over Davison’s posts led to lively exchanges on social media, with some attacking or defending Davison, which quickly devolved into simply trading insults. One Facebook comment, written by Lambert alum Jack Jenkins, noted that, as the principal of Lambert, Davison “has the responsibility to make sure that his students are safe from bullying and shame and ridicule. If he could show that his posts in no way affected his treatment of his students, then he would not be in this situation.” One transgender student defended Davison, saying the school had been supportive of her transition from male to female. “While I never personally met Dr. Davison, the administration he controlled allowed me to use the bathrooms I wanted, change my name on the rosters, and be the runner-up in the female category for senior superlatives,” the student posted. Davison’s supporters are circulating an online petition to save his job and have already collected over 3,000
signatures. In addition to the screenshots Watson saved from Davison’s Facebook page, Watson also collected testimonies from current and former Lambert students. The 20-some accounts, also on Watson’s Facebook page, are what the authors of the testimonies say are personal experiences at Lambert that involved interactions they considered racist, homophobic or that generally made them feel uncomfortable. However, one of the testimonies, written by Ruwa Romman, a South Forsyth High School 2011 alumna and Muslim, had a different tone. She said that, while she has experienced much of the same discrimination as the other students who wrote testimonies, she wants to extend a hand of friendship and dialogue as opposed to attacking Davison. “I would love to sit down and engage in a dialogue where you ask me about this faith that so many misunderstand … and talk about how you can lead this school towards a place of acceptance and real learning,” Romman wrote. “I do not think that suspending principals is a constructive way to fix this, and I truly believe that your leadership can really turn this page towards a better chapter, but it has to start with you being truly willing to listen and learn.”
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 33
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Heroin: Continued from Page 7
provides a profound sense of euphoria and peacefulness, and is of increased purity and often cut with dangerous substances such as fentanyl, an addictive additive that can be as much as 100 times more effective than morphine. Alpharetta resident Kate Boccia said her son, Daniel, became addicted to painkillers in high school after having his wisdom teeth removed. She said he told her he took an entire bottle of Percocet pills in three days. He transitioned to heroin and was eventually arrested in 2012 and received a 15-year sentence. Boccia has been an advocate of stronger support programs in Fulton County to address addiction, saying treating addicts is better than trials and prison. “If [addicts] don’t die, they will end up in a courtroom,” Boccia said. “They can’t get healthy without proper treatment, which does not exist.” The idea, she said, is to divert addicts to community-based treatment programs to help them kick the habit before they die or end up in jail, like
Daniel. Boccia said teens and young adults in North Fulton are more likely to become addicted to heroin than in the south of the county thanks to the relative wealth in the northern suburbs. “[South Fulton residents] may not have enough access to medicine cabinets like up here,” she said. “And if they can’t find drugs in their parents’ medicine cabinet, they can afford to buy them.” Dealing with the issue is complicated. Admitting there is a problem is the first step, and the Fulton County report is that step, Boccia said. With hard data, governments can use this to allocate funding and resources to local help. One such place is the Hub Community Resource Center, located in Johns Creek, which acts as a waypoint for those seeking resources for drug abuse and mental illness. She said the report, with support of the Fulton County District Attorney, local police and community leaders, can lead to heading off the problem before it becomes larger. “Communities need to take ownership and say this is a problem. This is an uncomfortable truth about the community,” Boccia said. “Our perfect world may not be so perfect.”
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SCHOOLS
34 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
Nation’s ‘top’ superintendent tapped for Fulton Schools
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By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The nationwide search for the next superintendent of the Fulton County School System ended just a few counties away, with the selection of Philip Lanoue, current superintendent of the Clarke County School System, as the sole finalist. Following a 14-day public comment period, the Fulton School Board is expected to officially tender a threeyear contract to Lanoue (rhymes with canoe) with an annual base salary of $295,000. The Fulton salary represents a nearly $100,000 raise for Lanoue from his current salary in Clarke County, according to state records. If he accepts the contract, Lanoue will assume leadership of Fulton Schools beginning May 1. “I am incredibly honored to be selected by the Fulton Board of Education to lead the Fulton County School System,” said Lanoue in response to Fulton’s announcement on Feb. 5. Lanoue reportedly informed his current board of education of his decision to accept the position with Fulton Schools the previous day.
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“To begin a new endeavor was not a decision I took lightly, but I look forward to working with the board, the staff and the broader community to build on their successes and make this district high performing for all LANOUE children.” Lanoue replaces former Fulton Superintendent Robert Avossa, who resigned last May to accept a position in Florida. During the interim, Ken Zeff served as superintendent, moving from his permanent position as chief innovation and strategy officer for the district. A Fulton Schools spokesperson confirmed Zeff’s job has remained open during his interim as superintendent, but at this point could not say whether he would return to his previous position upon Lanoue’s arrival. Lanoue has been the superintendent for Clarke County School District since 2009, after previously serving as an assistant superintendent with Cobb County Schools. Before that, he served as principal for 18 years at four high schools in Massachusetts and Vermont, his home state. Lanoue began his educational career as a science teacher. His past experience as an educator
See LANOUE, Page 44
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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 35
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36 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
SPORTS
Central downs Cambridge 48-32 in region matchup Julie Richards scores 16 in Bulldogs win By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com CUMMING, Ga. — The Forysth Central girls (11-13, 7-4) beat Cambridge (9-15, 3-8) 48-32 on Jan. 30 in Cumming. After a slow start, the Bulldogs took the lead midway through the second quarter and never looked back against their Region 7-AAAA Division B rival. Central senior forward Julie Richards led the Bulldogs in scoring with 16 and rebounds with six. Richards also had a standout performance defensively with five blocks and a steal. Abby Fagan added 13 points for the Bulldogs as well as two steals and junior Caroline Hearn scored 11. For the Lady Bears, freshman Julie Powell led in scoring with 10 points and shot 80 percent on free throws. Fellow freshman Audrey Smith compiled 9 points, 15 rebounds and a steal. Cambridge got off to a positive start with 5 points from Smith and a 3-pointer from Powell to open the game with an 8-2 lead. In the first quarter, Cambridge’s defense limited the Bulldogs’ passes inside the paint. However, beginning in the second quarter, the Bears were unable to do so. The Bulldogs outscored Cambridge 12-4 in the second quarter after 3-pointers from Hear and Fagan and took a 21-15 lead into halftime. The Bulldogs continued their offensive success in the third, opening the second half with an 8-0 run to extend their lead to 29-15. The Bulldogs were also able to outduel Cambridge’s Smith for rebounds, getting jump balls when they could not bring in the rebounds. A reverse of the first quarter, Cambridge struggled to get passes inside the paint and were forced to shoot outside shots, which limited Smith’s production under the net. Cambridge would continue to build their lead for the remainder of the game and take the win 44-32. Forsyth Central finished out their regular season with their Tuesday game against subregion-leading Kell while Cambridge completed their regular season against Sprayberry.
JOE PARKER
Lady Bears center Audrey Smith battles with Bulldogs’ Julie Richards for a rebound under the net. Richards had a standout performance against Cambridge with 16 points, six rebounds, a steal and five blocks
Other notable games (boys):
Other notable games (girls):
Alpharetta 62 – Johns Creek 65 Johns Creek won in a shootout last Friday in a Region 6-AAAAAA matchup against Alpharetta, battling back to regain the lead in the final minute. Johns Creek’s defense created multiple turnovers late and were able to take the lead with free throws. Johns Creek is off to their best start in school history (21-2) while two-time defending regular-season champion Alpharetta fell to 9-14 overall.
South Forsyth 60 Chattahoochee 44 The War Eagles improved to 16-0 in Region 6-AAAAAA with their win over Chattahoochee on Friday. Maryland commit Sarah Myers led South in scoring with 23 points. South will close out their regular season against North Forsyth this Friday.
West Forsyth 46 Lambert 74 Connor Mannion led the Longhorns with 23 points as the Longhorns remained unbeaten in Region 6-AAAAAA this season. The Longhorns (21-2, 16-0) will face Johns Creek this Friday in what could be a winner-take-all game for the regular-season region championship. King’s Ridge 55 St. Francis 82 St. Francis locked up the Region 6-A Division B subregion championship with their win over King’s Ridge on Friday. Senior Knights player Kobi Simmons was presented as a McDonald’s All American earlier that day. King’s Ridge lost their second consecutive region game with the loss.
West Forsyth 62 Lambert 46 West won their fourth straight region game Friday after losing to region-leading South on Jan. 18. West (18-5, 15-1) was led by senior Jenna Staiti who scored 40 points in the win. West is seeking their first regular-season region title. West fell to nonregion opponent McEachern on Saturday. Pinecrest Academy 57 Fellowship Christian 63 Fellowship Christian greatly helped their chances of earning a playoff berth with their win over Pinecrest. In the most recent Power Rankings, which determine the top-16 teams that will make the playoffs in Class A Private, FCS was on the outside looking in as they were ranked 22nd. Their win over Walker on Friday and Pinecrest on Saturday could push them into the top 16 if they can win out. Pinecrest, on the bubble at 16th, beat Whitefield Acad-
Weekend Scores Boys scores (Friday) • West Forsyth 46 Lambert 74 • South Forsyth 64 Chattahoochee 58 • Alpharetta 62 Johns Creek 65 • Milton 77 Lassiter 35 • North Springs 61 Cambridge 54 • Sprayberry 40 Forsyth Central 58 • Blessed Trinity 42 Decatur 44 • King’s Ridge 55 St. Francis 82 • Mount Pisgah 61 Providence Christian 35 • Pinecrest Academy 40 Whitefield Academy 59 • Fellowship Christian 41 Walker 50 Boys scores (Saturday) • North Forsyth 50 Walton 70 • Lassiter 62 Roswell 51 • Milton 49 Etowah 38 • Cambridge 65 Forsyth Central 70 • Mount Pisgah 46 North Cobb Christian 76 • Pinecrest Academy 51 Fellowship Christian 40 • King’s Ridge 45 Greenforest 74 Girls scores (Friday) • West Forsyth 62 Lambert 46 • South Forsyth 60 Chattahoochee 44 • Alpharetta 42 Johns Creek 33 • Northview 47 Habersham Central 39 • Milton 47 Lassiter 31 • North Springs 31 Cambridge 27 • Sprayberry 51 Forsyth Central 39 • Blessed Trinity 46 Decatur 49 • Mount Pisgah 34 Providence Christian 29 • Pinecrest Academy 62 Whitefield Academy 41 • Fellowship Christian 40 Walker 38 Girls scores (Saturday) • McEachern 58 West Forsyth 37 • Cambridge 32 Forsyth Central 48 • Milton 34 Etowah 41 • Mount Pisgah 36 North Cobb Christian 45 • Pinecrest Academy 57 Fellowship Christian 63 emy on Friday, possibly keeping them in the top 16 even with the loss to FCS.
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 37
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38 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
Is Your Pet Trying To Tell You Something? Clean teeth and healthy gums are important to their health. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) & the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) estimates more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have oral disease by the time they are three years old often indicated by bad breath, a change in eating or chewing habits, pawing at the face & mouth or depression. A few minutes with our doctors can help your four-legged family member lead a happier & healthier life. Call our clinic today to schedule your appointment!
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Saturday, February 20, 2016 Wills Park Pool • 5K at 7 a.m. • 1K at 8 a.m.
Registration/Entry Fee: 5K - $20 if pre-registered by February 12, 2016 through active.com or by mail. Onsite registration is $25. 1K-$10 if pre-registered by February 12, 2016 through active.com or by mail. Onsite registration is $12. Thank you to all of our generous sponsors: FlowTech Mechanical Services, Northside Allergy (Dr. Chacko), Briskin, Cross and Sanford, LLC, Learning RX, Dr. Michael Leach, DDS, Jumptastic, Resurgens Orthopedics, Halcomb Plumbing, Bagel Boys, Dogwood Forest, Karate Atlanta, North Fulton School of Music, Signature Smiles (Dr. Prattas & Dr. Rosie), Publix and Road Runner Sports. For more information, please go to
http://alpharettaelementarypto.org/special-events/flying-5k/
The race route: The race starts near the Mansell House on Old Milton Parkway (eastbound lanes). Race continues to Roswell Street and turns around into the westbound lanes. Race continues west to Wills Rd. Runners turn right and continue north to Milton Ave. Race turns right towards Hwy. 9. Runners turn right at Hwy. 9 and continue south to Old Milton Pkwy. Route goes right toward Wills Park Pool. Race turns left immediately following the pool and ends before the parking lot.
COMMUNITY
ACTIVE SHOOTER: CIVILIAN RESPONSE
JCPD forum tells how to More than 200 attend By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – What would you do if you suddenly found yourself in the midst of a terrorist attack in a public place – or just your garden-variety nut case with a gun? That is precisely what more than 200 local residents showed up Jan. 28 at Perimeter Church in Johns Creek to find out. The Johns Creek Police Department conducted a forum called Active Shooter: Civilian Response. With a rising number of attacks on civilians occurring randomly in public places – we know them by place names now such as San Bernardino, Sandy Hook, Virginia Tech – Police Chief Ed Densmore said his department decided to respond to citizen requests. “We wanted to get people some good information about what they can do to try to survive an active shooter event. We think, with some basic information, folks can greatly increase their chances of surviving a mass shooting,” Densmore said. JCPD Maj. John Clifton led the two-hour seminar with the help of Sgt. Lane Shannon and Sgt. Todd Hood. He began by saying, due to the subject matter, attendees would see and hear “sensitive material” and see violent videos as part of the program. The forum began eerily with a tape of the Colorado 911 operator talking to the librarian at Columbine High School during the shooting in 1999. At first the librarian said she did not realize what was going on, thinking somebody was playing a prank with firecrackers inside the building. Then, when it became apparent it was gunfire coming from the hallway outside, she had the students get under their desks. The last thing the audience heard was her telling the 911 operator, “They’ve just walked in the room.” Clifton said it is important to understand the normal thought processes when something like this happens. “If you get anything from this program, listen to how to survive such an event. This is the time and age we live in,” Clifton said. “Columbine was where they say America lost its innocence. We all watched that play out on television. The lessons were hard. It took police officers 47 minutes to enter the building.” Columbine led to changes in the ways police handle such situations.
Surviving a mass shooting Johns Creek Police say the way to survive such a terrifying situation is to ADD to your chances. ADD stands for avoid, deny, defend. • AVOID: At the sound of gunfire, leave the area as quickly as possible. Don’t wait to see if it is “really happening.” Make it a habit to notice other exits in public places other than the one you entered. That also helps in case of fires. • DENY: If escape is not possible, try blocking the shooter’s entry. If that does not entirely discourage the shooter, it could give you the chance to jump out of a window. • DEFEND: This the last-ditch option when the shooter is coming at you face-to-face. Negotiation is not an option with this type person. Throw a chair or some object but follow with an attack, especially if there are more of you than shooters. It is perhaps a forlorn hope but it is the best option among poor ones. Only three days earlier, an alleged bank robber was fleeing pursuit by a Johns Creek police officer and crashed his car in front of Autrey Mill Middle School. He jumped out of his car and ran toward the school parking lot. The pursuing officer saw this and radioed what was happening. Before the suspect got to the school door, the principal had already been notified and the school was in lockdown. He was arrested minutes later, without gaining entry into the school. “It was only a matter of seconds for the radio call to get to the school,” Densmore said. Clifton noted rather than hide under tables, the students should have been going out the windows at the sound of gunfire. “It was a one-story drop, but that was better than what was waiting for them outside the door,” Clifton said. It is all part of the strategy that Clifton and his sergeants Shannon and Hood said people should follow if a shooting happens nearby. They call it ADD – avoid, deny, defend. Avoid the situation by getting away. Make it a habit to study the exits when entering a public place. If avoidance is not possible, you must
COMMUNITY
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 39
survive mass shooting
EARN IT! KEEP IT! SAVE IT! HATCHER HURD/HERALD
Sgt. Lane Shannon said the three things to remember if you hear shots are ADD: avoid, deny, defend. Avoid the situation, get away; deny the shooter entrance to your space; but, if face to face, defend with everything you have. deny the shooter access. Create a barrier, lock the door or place some other obstacle between you and the shooter. If that fails, defend yourself, don’t hide. Police say to fight as if your life depends on it is the best last choice. “We don’t want people to be paranoid, just prepared. You don’t expect to have an accident, but you buckle your seat belt. It’s just about being prepared,” Clifton said. Another graphic video showed what happened during a fire at a nightclub. It started at the bandstand and engulfed the entire club in about six minutes. Hundreds died at the main entrance as the panicked mob made it impossible for anyone to move. Yet there were three other exits that almost no one used because they didn’t know they were there. The typical reaction, whether to a fire or gunfire, is for the brain to go into denial. Studies show people will look at the reactions of others to take cues on whether to react to danger. While everyone is standing around wondering what
to do, precious time is lost. People go through three stages, Clifton said. First it’s denial, then deliberation and then the “decisive minute” when they react. That takes too long. “Delay is when people die,” Clifton said. “If you smell smoke or hear firecrackers, react as if it is the worst. That’s the best state to be in.” For those carrying weapons of their own, the officers had this advice: Don’t go hunting the shooter or shooters. Defend yourself, but you are at a disadvantage. Almost always the shooter has planned the event with multiple weapons and ammunition. Another real danger is when police arrive on the scene. They are looking for someone with a weapon in hand, and it could easily end with a “friendly fire” casualty. Densmore said his department would be available to make the presentation to businesses or other groups as a civic service. “The more people we can inform about the correct way to act in such a situation, the better,” he said.
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SPORTS
40 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
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St. Francis’ Kobi Simmons named McDonald’s All American Will play at All American Games in Chicago March 30 By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — St. Francis senior basketball player Kobi Simmons was selected to play in the 39th annual McDonald’s All American Games that will take place in Chicago’s United Center on March 30. Simmons was one of only two Georgia players selected for the 24-player roster from among 755 nominees nationally. During a McDonald’s American Hometown Heroes presentation at St. Francis Jan. 29, Simmons, who has committed to the University of Arizona, said being named an All American is “a dream come true.” “It means the world to me to be selected,” he said. “It’s just really a blessing and I’m honored to be named an All American. “This is something a young man dreams to be a part of. You dream about it as a little kid and now it’s actually happening.” Simmons, a 6-foot-5 point guard, is St. Francis’ all-time leading scorer with 2,186 points. Simmons also has 469 assists, over 200 steals and is sixth on St. Francis’ list of all-time leaders in rebounding. Simmons said he was shocked when he saw his name on the list of All Americans. “When I saw my name on ESPN I was shocked — I couldn’t move. Everybody was just surrounding me and giving me hugs but I just couldn’t move. I stayed there and just stared at the screen in shock,” he said. Regarding what he hopes to accomplish at the All American Games, Simmons said, “My goal is to play well, win at the highest level and overall just have fun. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so I want to have fun out there.” Simmons thanked his family “for getting me to this point,” as well as his coaches and all who have supported him through his career. St. Francis Head Coach Andrew Catlett said of Simmons, “I met Kobi when he was in middle school and I saw a lot of potential. As a coach you become connected with the players and the feelings are deep. To see a kid realize his dreams is extremely gratifying as a coach.”
JOE PARKER
St. Francis’ Kobi Simmons is the alltime leading scorer at St. Francis and has committed to the University of Arizona.
Simmons will join the list of some of basketball’s all-time greats who have been selected for the games, including Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Simmons became the 36th player from Georgia to be selected for the All American Games. Georgia has produced the ninth-most All Americans in the 39-year span of the games. Simmons, who has led St. Francis to 91 wins in the past four seasons and two state championships, said he believes the team will repeat as state champions in Class A this season. The Knights will play their last regular-season game this Friday. After graduation, Simmons will begin his tenure with the Arizona Wildcats. Simmons, who said he is very excited to play for the prestigious program, said his relationships with the Arizona coaches led to his decision to commit to a school so far away. “My relationship with Coach Miller and the assistant coaches are great. At first I didn’t know if [Arizona] was going to be the right fit, but after the trip to Arizona I woke up knowing that’s where I wanted to go. I can’t wait to get to Tucson,” said Simmons. The 39th annual McDonald’s All American Games will be played in Chicago at 9 p.m. March 30 and will be televised live on ESPN.
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 41
42 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
SCHOOLS
Swift School carves niche teachi Teachers specialize in helping students who learn differently By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The Swift School is nestled near the southern end of Grimes Bridge Road in Roswell and is easy to miss if you are not looking for it. But parents searching for a school that understands dyslexic students are lasered in on the Swift School as a place that can be life changing for their children. Swift’s Head of School Richard Wendlek says there is still a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about dyslexia even though 20 percent of all Americans fall into that learning category. “Dyslexia is a language-based difference, often seen in language acquisition. Dyslexics process information differently and may express themselves differently,” Wendlek said. What the fully accredited Swift School does is teach students how to acquire language and process it in ways that let them communicate to others. They may also have trouble recalling things they have learned. On the other hand dyslexics can have strengths in spatial cognition, making for excellent architects, engineers and designers. It is believed Leonardo da Vinci was dyslexic, not only because he preferred to write left-to-right, but because of his phenomenal skills in engineering, anatomy and science. Those are symptomatic of dyslexic abilities. So was his tendency to leave projects unfinished.
About Dyslexia Dyslexia is believed to be caused by a neurological difference in language processing. The Swift School refuses to call it a disorder. Dyslexia symptoms often include difficulty with written and spoken information. Dyslexia is not a disability, but it is a different kind of ability often misunderstood. President Woodrow Wilson was a considered a “slow” learner because he didn’t read until age 12. Presidents Andrew Jackson and George Washington are also believed to be dyslexic. “Our students process slowly because they depend on creating a story – a narrative pattern to process thoughts,” Wendlek said. Gail Swift founded the school in 1998, beginning with five students and finishing the term with nine. Her second year, she had 18 students. Many parents of dyslexic students are at a loss for where to turn when their child is diagnosed. Public schools are rarely prepared to deal with students who don’t process information the way most children do. Wendlek says dyslexia a field of learning unto itself, and that is why the Swift School has grown to some 260 students in elementary and middle school levels. A high school is planned that would draw students from across the northern Atlanta perimeter. “We have one student whose parents moved to Roswell from Sydney, Australia. Many other parents of our students have been so dedicated to what we do to have moved to put their students here.
Ready to open doors for dyslexic teachers are from left Swift Board Member Bob Gray, Head of School Richard Wendlek and Board Member Laura Ries. The school’s small classes, one-on-one teaching and tailored curriculum allow dyslexic students to thrive.
Like most classes in the Swift School. Mus used. Students are taught to understand m No others have come so far as Sydney, but it shows how far parents will go for their children’s education,” he said. Most of the education is multisensory. The student sees it, hears it, writes it, moves it, touches it, Wendlek said. “We engage a bright child to use their strengths to better understand the world. Parents have bright children, but they have met defeats and lack of success elsewhere. Parents tell us they see a dramatic change in as little as two or three weeks,” he said. It’s what Wendlek calls that “no more tears around the kitchen table” moment. Family life is transformed, he said. Classes are small, no more than 10 students. And each class has two teachers who follow the Orton-Gillingham approach, a leading methodology in teaching dyslexic students. Perhaps what is best about Swift School for the students is its atmosphere of “everybody learns like me.” And small class sizes encourage students to participate. In normally larger classes, dyslexic students withdraw from participation. “In public school, the older the students become, the more they realize they aren’t getting it – not the way other
SCHOOLS
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 43
ng dyslexic children
How Does Your Bank See You?
PHOTOS BY HATCHER HURD/HERALD
ic is a hands-on affair. As in most Swift classrooms, a multi-sensory approach is usic using touch, sight and hearing. Perhaps most important, it learning by doing. students do,” Wendlek said. “It’s like being in a class where everyone is speaking Russian and you don’t. Eventually, you pick up things, but not at the rate everyone else is.” For parents such Johns Creek City Councilman Bob Gray, the school has been a godsend. When he brought his son to the Swift School, he was searching for answers that would put his boy on the right path. “They care here. They are very nurturing. And these are not easy kids to reach,” Gray said. Today, Gray’s son is a sophomore at Virginia Tech. Donna Cherry, the Swift School’s director of technology and assessments, said what the school does is give students an array of tools to “find strategies that work.” By definition, dyslexics are not “cookie-cutter” students. “In the end, each child learns to make choices at getting good at articulating their position. And they advocate from that platform,” Cherry said. At the Swift School, the curriculum is about serving the whole student. That means physical education, music and art are part of the curriculum also. Laura Reis is a Swift parent and
board member. She says the transformation in students’ confidence in learning is remarkable. “It makes them independent. They advocate for how they learn,” Reis said. “Childhood is a long race. We are getting them ready at every stop and challenging them to do more.” Gray agrees. He saw the transformation in his son “from the first day.” “These kids have been told they are stupid, that they are lazy. They are made to feel different. They come here and they find they are not different,” Gray said. “In two weeks, my son went from hating this school to loving it.” Swift School is moving ahead with plans for a north metro high school for dyslexic students. A plan for a 300- to 400-student high school at Holcomb Bridge Road and Old Alabama has passed the Roswell Planning Commission and will be headed for City Council approval soon. Meanwhile, the school is also building relationships with universities to “teach the teachers,” said Wendlek. The school recently met with 60 Cobb County teachers to begin a relationship that could lead to dyslexic classes being taught in public school.
Other Banks
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44 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
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DEATH NOTICES Tony Adkins, 56, passed away January 27, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
Flamingos: Continued from Page 14 in yards. The flamingos roost for 48 hours before they migrate to another yard. In total, about 65 homes will receive the flamingos before they leave in April. The students will hold two events to support their fundraising efforts. On
Lanoue: Continued from Page 34 is important to the Fulton Schools community, based on survey results which were used to develop search criteria for
Tuesday, Feb. 16, Mari’s Cucina and Social House located at 2100 Ray Moss Connector, Johns Creek has volunteered to donate a percentage of all proceeds from lunch, dinner and takeout for the day. In addition, Reese Batley, a student at Alpharetta High School, will provide her musical talents from 7-9 p.m. Mari’s Cucina serves authentic New York Italian food. There will also be a few silent auc-
tion items and a 50/50 raffle. On Sunday, March 6 at 2 p.m., the students will hold a car wash and bake sale at 2090 Lake Windward Drive in Alpharetta. To learn more about Lighthouse Family Retreat or to donate to the trip, visit https://lighthouse.pledgeraiser. org/p/isabellaandfriends6/volunteersupport —Jonathan Copsey
the next superintendent. In addition to education experience, the survey indicated leadership and communication skills were necessary attributes. “Dr. Lanoue’s background and experience match what is important to our community as evidenced by our superintendent search survey,” said
Fulton School Board President Linda McCain. “He brings an unparalleled level of credibility with 38 years of educational experience [and his] leadership experience has included rural, suburban and urban settings.” Lanoue was named the 2015 National Superintendent of the Year by the American Association of School Administrators, and was also included among the Top 50 Technological Innovators in Education by the Center for Digital Education. He served on the advisory board for The Principals’ Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and has been published in many academic journals and in national press on the role of district leaders and principals in the era of accountability. Lanoue has a doctorate in educational leadership from Mercer University, and both master’s and bachelor’s degrees in education from the University of Vermont. He and his wife, Vickie, have two grown daughters. Although Fulton Schools declined to provide a list of all applicants for the superintendent position, it was confirmed that three final candidates were interviewed by the Fulton County Board of Education. However, in accordance with Georgia law, the two unsuccessful candidates were allowed to withdraw rather than have their names released, said a Fulton Schools spokesperson. Lanoue familiar with Fulton Schools challenges Philip Lanoue takes the reins of a school system demographically similar to the Clarke County School System, but vastly different in terms of size and resources. The 21 schools in the entire Clarke County School System represent less than a fourth of the scope of the Fulton County School System – essentially the size of a high school cluster. But familiar issues will follow Lanoue from Clarke County Schools to Fulton Schools. Those challenges include a rising poverty rate among students, how to best meet the needs of English learners, and pockets of persistently underperforming schools.
Marilyn Kirby Alexander, 87, of Cumming, passed away January 28, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
FEBRUARY 2016
Naomi Bernice Neely Weaver Dieterle, of Cumming, passed away January 20, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Edwin Garner, 81, of Cumming, passed away January 29, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Ralph Wayne Heard, 72, of Cumming, passed away February 2, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. John Paul Kidd, 83, of Cumming, passed away January 31, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
Wedding
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James Marvin Manry, 68, of Cumming, passed away January 25, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Craig David Minnix, 52, of Gainesville, passed away January 29, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Sweet Success
John Garnet Owens, Jr., 53, of Covington, passed away January 23, 2016. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.
What are they thinking?
Rosaline Yother Pirkle, 63, of Forsyth County, passed away January 26, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Rev. Herbert Clifton Youngblood, 97, of Cumming, passed away January 29, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Nothing Bundt Cakes finds niche in Milton
How your pet 'talks' to you
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Blotter:
Thieves clean out kitchen
Continued from Page 2 dark car, going door-to-door checking car handles and had entered at least one vehicle. When police arrived, they found three young men who matched descriptions of the perpetrators. Witnesses identified the men based on their clothes. Only loose change was reported missing from most of the cars entered, although one victim said a car charger was gone. In total, five vehicles were broken into. The three suspects, ranging in age from 17-27, were charged with larceny.
MILTON, Ga. – Someone stole every appliance in a Wood Road home’s kitchen Jan. 23, totaling more than $30,000. The victim, the homeowner who lives across the street from the victimized house, said he looked at the home and saw the garage door had been left open. The house is vacant and the garage door had been left closed. When he investigated, he said he found the kitchen bare of appliances A refrigerator, freezer, microwave and stove had all taken from the home, damaging the wooden floor as well.
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Help Wanted Full-time Cemetery Services Specialist Minimum 6 months experience operating standard equipment. Must be able to lift heavy objects up to 30 pounds, and work in all types weather. Full benefits package. E/O/E. 770993-4811
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Full-time The Drake House is a 501 (c) 3 organization providing emergency housing to homeless single mothers and their children in North Fulton County. We are looking for an Intake Coordinator to provide crisis intervention for homeless families contacting The Drake House for services. In addition, this position interviews qualified families applying for residency at The Drake House, and prepares an in-depth social history summary. This position recruits and trains new referral partners, and strives for capacity occupancy. Knowledge of local resources, interviewing skills and writing skills are needed. Experience with Pathways and Salesforce data base management is a plus. This position is 32 hour per week with flexible hours. Medical benefits available. Social work or related degree required. www. thedrakehouse.org. All interested candidates send current resume with cover letter to cmerritt@ thedrakehouse.org.
Full-time
The CITY OF SUWANEE is accepting applications for a BUILDING OFFICIAL. This position is responsible for directing the day-to-day activities of the Inspections Division. Hiring range $49,909 to $66.616. with experience, education and certifications. Get details on this position and application at www.suwanee.com, application must accompany resume.
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SERVICE TECHS Now hiring friendly, dependable full/part time people to maintain swimming pools. Established Metro Atlanta routes. Gas allowance. Must have transportation. Drug-free workplace. Fax resume to 770-650-0078
HANDYMAN who can “fix almost anything”. Non-smoker, honest, dependable, good references. Must pass background check. Preferable plumbing, electrical, sometimes framing, HVAC, etc ability for any of those. $15/hour. 770-992-2469. realestatetreasure@ msn.com
Office Assistant - Part time. Alpharetta Presbyterian Church seeks a part-time office assistant (30 hours per week) to assist with running an efficient church office and supporting the office staff. Degreed candidate preferred; writing skills and computer competence (Word, Outlook) are essential. Publisher skills desired. Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to: Jobs@ AlpharettaPres.com
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Parts Professional: Reliable, Outgoing. M o n d a y - F r i d a y, 7:00am-6pm, some Saturdays 7:30am-3pm. Experience a plus but not necessary. If interested, forward resume to Barry McClure at bmcclure@ jlrnorthpoint.com
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Inbound call center and virtual office service. Provide receptionist services to various companies. Sell, schedule and provide virtual office services for home inspectors. Must work 1-2 nights 12:30pm-9pm. Real estate and/or inspection background a plus. $14/ hour + potential bonus in 1st 90 days. Resume: sales@wescheduleit. com
HOUSE CLEANERS dependable, detailedoriented, enthusiastic. Starting $10.50/hour. ransportation required. Drug-free workplace. 678-513-4844 Inside Sales Administrator Selling commercial food service equipment. Proficient in Office, very organized. 2 years experience. Benefits package. Monday-Friday, days. dschorr62@gmail.com
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G Y M N A S T I C COACHES NEEDED for recreational and team levels. Must have experience, and reliable transportation and be good with kids. If interested, contact Lindi at 770-475-8188 CAREGIVER Looking for loving caregiver. Email resume to homecare4mom ndad@gmail.com PET SITTER/DOG WALKER FT/PT. Must have flexible schedule. www. happytailscare.com
LEGAL SECRETARY
Litigation experience. Alpharetta area. Flexible schedule. Resumes: robballard@earthlink.net
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MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued on page 46
46 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued from page 45 Bargains Antiques European wardrobe/ armoire, single door, beveled mirror, 84”hX 21”dX37”w. $700. Photos. 678-549-6057.
Cemetery Greenlawn/Roswell 4 lots, Garden Of The Fountain. $2700 each/ obo, includes upkeep and maintenance. 770475-7025 ARLINGTON Desirable Calvary Section. Lake and Crucifix views. Lot 545A, 2 spaces, Retail $13,990. $7900 both. 770-7513643
Roswell-Greenlawn. Garden of Prayer overlooking lake with fountain. 4 plots. ivypaigereeder@gmail. com for more info and photos ARLINGTON 2 premium spaces, prestigious Pine Hill. #184-C, 3 & 4. $4000 each, valued $8900 each. 770-886-6988 Arlington Memorial Park Atlanta Section E, Lot 71A, spaces 1, 2, 3, 4. $3800/each. Debbie ewingadeb@yahoo. com or text/call 770355-9681
Furniture DINING TABLE: Round Ralph Lauren 60”d cherry $200. 770-7810961
Garden/Lawn DRIFTWOOD: For decorating and/or projects. $350/all! Text for pix: 678-468-8687
Household GE Gas Range, Black, $50 678-456-3738 Amana Dishwasher, black. $50. 678-4563738 GE OverOven MW- SS, $50. 678-456-3738
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Vintage Barbie, Midge, Francie, Skipper dolls, clothing and accessories. (Local). Cell 214-8838215
Real Estate Acreage/Lots
$75.
Musical Instruments CELLO, 7/8 Doetsch, Pernambuco bow, Hiscox hard sided case $2400. 770-753-0787 PIANO, Baby Grand: Elegant case, matching bench; warm, rich tone. Sacrifice $1650 obo. 678-445-3654
Recreation
1.98 acre Residential Lot off of E. Cherokee Dr./ Murphy Dr. (secluded drive) in Cherokee County. Wooded with mature hardwoods, sloped lot. All utilities at road. $50,000 Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404660-2919 cell, www. AgentScally.com
POOL TABLE, 4x8, 4 chairs, cues, rack, 2 more tables. $2000. 404-934-7307 TREADMILL: Trimline heavy duty $100. 678339-0410 Pool Table, 8’. Balls, racks, cue stand, sticks. Slate base, Dark cherry, leather ball pockets. $850. 770617-5943 POOL TABLE: Brunswick 8’. Three slates. Pool cues, pool rack, table light, Excellent condition. $1500. 678-339-0410 GOLF MEMORABILIA: Club Logo; balls and towels, etc. $295. 404583-2078 Nordic Track Walk Fit 5000: Non-electric, no batteries. $100. 770993-0835 GOLF CART: Club Car. Trojan batteries with charger. Lights, horn. Excellent condition! $1950. 404-290-6364.
Thanks for Reading The Classifieds!
3575 Bonneville Drive, Cumming .23 acres in Shady Shores $29,900 Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally.com
Commercial Space for Lease
Commercial Space for Sale
NATIONAL ADVERTISING Announcements
You Are Invited to a
ROYAL TEA PARTY with THE SNOW QUEEN and THE WINTER PRINCESS
2376 Bethelview Road, 1.07 acre commercial in CBD zoning across from Kroger at Bethelview Rd & GA Hwy 20 intersection. Owner Agent, asking $499,000. Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404-660-2919 cell, www.AgentScally. com
Investment Property/ Residential
at Historic Bulloch Hall on VALENTINE’S DAY 2/14/16 Reservations required, limited seating. Call 770-713-4303 for more information! Hosted by: Look-alikes and Characters Entertainment!!
Office Space for Rent
Main Street Commons Office Condo Park, Heart Of Downtown Alpharetta. Single Story Office Condo 1104 SF, 3 Offices, Reception Area, Conference & Break Rooms, Storage Closet, very nice finishes. $1385/ month. 1020 Powers Place. Linda.Ekes@ccgatl.com
http://www.partypop.com/vendor/Look-Alikes-and-Characters-Entertainment/4268021 Legal Notice
PUBLIC NOTICE OF UPCOMING ACCREDITATION REVIEW VISIT BY THE ACEN
You are invited to meet the site visit team and share your comments about the program in person at a meeting scheduled on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 at 2p.m. at Gwinnett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 900 Conference Room, Lawrenceville, GA 30043-5702. Written comments are also welcome and should be submitted directly to: Dr. Marsal Stoll, Chief executive Officer Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850 Atlanta GA 30336 Or e-mail: mstoll@acenursing.org All written comments should be received by the ACEN by
Business Services
Personal Services
Tax Service
Eldercare
Tax preparation done right. Preparation rates are affordable, service is top-notch! 20 years experience. Call 770772-0060 for estimates; personal/business returns
Excellent Home Care Services at great value! 14 years experience. Licensed/ insured/background checks done. CNA, medication reminders, housekeeping, errands, cooking/ transportation. 678-431-6233
Need work done on your home?
Call the Experts
in the
S E RV I C E D I R E C TO RY
Help p Wanted? Help Fo ound!
Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398
CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Competitive Offer! Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.
CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call For Quote: 1-888-416-2330.
Friday, February 19, 2016.
537 Lake Center Parkway for lease 1200-3600 SF space available in beautiful brick building. Easy access to Highway 9 and Market Center Blvd in Cumming. Call Christy Scally, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 office, 404660-2919 cell, www. AgentScally.com
Miscellaneous
Autos Wanted
Gwinnett Technical College wishes to announce that it will host a site review for continuing accreditation of its associate degree nursing program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 156 Red Bank Road, Alpharetta - $374,900. INVESTERS - Income Producing Property In Alpharetta. Low Forsyth County Taxes, TWO 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Rental Units And ONE Studio Rental Unit, Call Larry Perkins, Keller Williams 678-341-7400 Office or Cell 678-644-8457.
Auto Donations
Fill your position today! Call 770-442-3278 to advertise
SUPPORT our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need. For more information visit the Fisher House website at www. fisherhouse.org
Business Opportunity
CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies. com
Get $500-$5000+ Daily! Return Phone Calls and Get Daily Cash Flow! Not MLM. No Investments, No Risk, No selling. SHORT OVERVIEW: 1-888-812-1214
Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+
Educational
Money to Lend
MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Train at home to process Medical Billing & Insurance! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training at Bryan University! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-888-734-6711
ACCESS YOUR LAWSUIT CASH! In an Injury Lawsuit? Need Cash Now? Low Rates. No Credit Checks/Monthly Payments. Call Now 1-800568-8321.
NEW YEAR, NEW AIRLINE CAREER. Get FAA approved certification at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Call AIM 888-686-1704
Health & Medical **NEW YEAR’S SPECIAL** VIAGRA 60x (100 mg) +20 “Bonus” PILLS for ONLY $114.00 plus shipping. NO PRESCRIPTION Needed! VISA/ MC payment. 1-888-3868074 www.newhealthyman. com Satisfaction Guaranteed!! VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 10 FREE. SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed. FREE Shipping! 24/7 CALL NOW! 1-888-2238818
Homes for Rent STOP RENTING! Option To Buy! Rent To Own. No Money Down! No Credit Check! Call Now 1-877-395-1291
Medical VIAGRA & CIALIS! 50 pills for $95. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed. Money back guaranteed! 1-877-743-5419
Miscellaneous Lower Your TV, Internet & Phone Bill!!! Get Fast Internet from $15/mo - qualifying service. Limited Time Offer. Plus, get a FREE $300 Gift Card. Call 855-693-1333 Today!
Motorcycles Wanted to Buy WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI Z1-900 (1972-75), KZ900, KZ1000 (1976-1982), Z1R, KZ 1000MK2 (1979,80), W1-650, H1-500 (1969-72), H2-750 (1972-1975), S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, KH250, KH400, SUZUKI-GS400, GT380, HONDA-CB750K (1969-1976), CBX1000 (1979,80) CASH!! 1-800-772-1142 1-310-7210726 usa@classicrunners.com
Travel Considering an all-inclusive vacation? Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and more! It’s not too late to book! Visit NCPtravel.com or call 877270-7260 for more information. ALL INCLUSIVE CRUISE package on the Norwegian Sky out of Miami to the Bahamas. Pricing as low as $299 pp for 3 Day or $349 pp for 4 Day (double occupancy) - ALL beverages included! For more info. call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPtravel.com
Wanted to Buy EXTRA DIABETIC STRIPS? Sell with us! DTSbuyers.com 1-866-446-3009 Most brands accepted! Cash for unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS or STOP SMOKING PRODUCTS! Free Shipping, Best Prices & 24 hr payment! Call 1-855-440-4001 www.TestStripSearch.com. Habla Espanol.
SERVICE DIRECTORY Cleaning Services
Need a housecleaning? Call Norma Martinez for free estimate! References. 404-4687667. “I get all your dust to earn your trust!”
Concrete/Asphalt We fix UGLY driveways and patios. $50 OFF any concrete job over $250 $250 OFF any job over $3500 New or Repair: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. Residential or Commercial. Call for FREE estimate. The Best Concrete Company-Ask for Dave McKemey. 678-6482010. P r o f e s s i o n a l , competitive, many local references.
Deck DECKS, pergolas, and fences. Clean and seal... 30 years experience. Call for FREE estimate 404-556-0493 or 770-569-7772 Arbor Woodworks LLC.
Driveway We fix UGLY driveways. $50 OFF any concrete job over $250 $250 OFF any job over $3500 New or Repair: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. Residential or Commercial. Call for FREE estimate. The Best Concrete Company-Ask for Dave McKemey. 678-9142576. P r o f e s s i o n a l , competitive, many local references.
Farm/Garden Services
Bushhog, bobcat work,clearing/ cleanups,light grading, plowing,garden tilling, pinestraw/mulch, pasture renovation/ finish mowing. Insured, experienced. 770-363-5092, michaelebrightllc@ gmail.com
Flooring Flooring Installation & Repairs: Carpet, Ceramic, Laminate, Tile, Vinyl, Wood. Free Estimates! I can remove carpet wrinkles! Satisfaction Guaranteed! 706-4294453 PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-8871868 for free estimate.
Gutters AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www. aarons-gutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 770-934-2766
Handyman Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Plumbing,Electrical and Drywall Repair and Installation Complete home maintenance We do it all! Call Mike 678-763-2420
Handyman
Handyman
ALL CARPENTRY & REPAIRS: Roof Leaks, Wood Rot Repair, Siding, Deck Repairs and Refinishing, Painting, Doors/Windows. Excellent References. 404-895-0260
Haulers Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc. Many local references. Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237
Home Improvement Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc. Many local references. Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237 Finegan Home Improvements LLC: License #RBQA004932. Remodeling, handyman. 31 years experience. Basements finished, decks, screen porches, doors, drywall, painting, flooring, custom kitchens, bathrooms. All insurance. Credit cards accepted. Paul Finegan 404-353-5611
Landscaping 404Cuttree. One of the most experienced and reliable tree companies in North Atlanta. Perfect reviews and reliable, professional, and honest service. Free quotes. Fully insured. 770Tree. com 678-506-0006
Thanks for Reading The Classifieds!
® HANDYMAN REMODELING Ask us about
10% OFF remodels 678-455-2434 www.HandyHero.net
30 yrs. exp./FREE ESTIMATES • 1 YR WARRANTY/Lic. & Ins. Landscaping
Painters
Landscape Design, Hardscape Design and Installation. 35 Years’ Experience; Retaining Walls, Flag Stone and BrickP aver Patios, Landscape Lighting, Drainage Issues, Pavilions. Outdoor kitchens, irrigation systems installation and repairs. FREE C O N S U LTAT I O N S ! www.thebodigroup.com. 678-788-5656
770-255-8575 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs
Yellow Ribbon Tree. Near perfect reviews and award-winning service. Hands on owner. Free estimates and insured. 770Tree.com 770-7442200 and ask for Gary.
Pinestraw
Lawn Care LEAVE THE MOWING TO US”A”! Weekly/ Bi-weekly Father/ Son team Residential/ Comm Garden Tilling/Lawn Aeration www.oldtrucklawn.com 678-727-6850
Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc. Many local references. Call Ralph Rucker at 678898-7237
Need work done on your home?
Call the Experts in the SERVICE DIRECTORY
Advantage Painting
No Up Front Money Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured
PINESTRAW, mulch delivery/installation available. Firewood $110/$200, plus delivery. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612.
Tree Services JJ Tree Cutting Services. Complete Tree Removal. Call us for a Free Quote, 678-467-1325 or 770630-6672. Licensed and insured. jjtreecutting@ gmail.com Yellow Ribbon Tree. Near perfect reviews and award-winning service. Hands on owner. Free estimates and insured. 770Tree.com 770-7442200 and ask for Gary. 404Cuttree. One of the most experienced and reliable tree companies in North Atlanta. Perfect reviews and reliable, professional, and honest service. Free quotes. Fully insured. 770Tree. com 678-506-0006
NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 10, 2016 | 47
CADNET ADS
Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license identification or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in U.S. dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.
Auto Donation A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs. FAST FREE PICKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE TAX DEDUCTION 855-4030213
Sell Your Car The Easy Way
888-524-9668
Business Opportunities Leaders - Get Paid Daily New Instant Direct Pay System Earn $500 - $3750/ Sale + Residual 844.693.7422 or EpicWealthNetwork.com
AIRLINE CAREERS
Health & Fitness VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 50 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 1-866-312-6061 VIAGRA 100mg, CIALIS 20mg. 50 tabs $90 includes FREE SHIPPING. 1-888-8360780 or www.metromeds. online Viagra!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00! Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Call 1-888-797-9024
Miscellaneous AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204 Lower Your TV, Internet & Phone Bill!!! Get Fast Internet from $15/mo qualifying service. Limited Time Offer. Plus, get a FREE $300 Gift Card. Call 855407-0796 Today! Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888-909-9905 18+.
Wanted to Buy Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 CASH PAID- up to $25/ Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT. 1-800-3711136
Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance
800-481-7894
Landscaping Retaining Walls Ponds Hardscapes Lighting Irrigation
250 OFF
$
RUCKER
LANDSCAPING
Any job of $3500 or more.
Cannot combine with other offers. Expires in 10 days
Tad Carter • 678.648.2012 Many Local References
Fil your position today! Call 770-442-3278 to advertise
48 | February 10, 2016 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com
No.1
INDIVIDUAL AGENT 2015 NORTH ATLANTA OFFICE
REAL ESTATE IN METRO
JENNY DOYLE
ATLANTA
c. 404.840.7354 | o. 770.442.7300 jennydoyle@atlantafinehomes.com jennydoyle.com | sir.com
CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST • ATLANTA BOARD OF REALTORS® MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR SALES CLUB • RESIDENT OF MILTON
“‘NATIONAL REALTOR® OF THE YEAR’ USA/CANADA, 2012” - The National Real Estate Stagers Association (RESA)
“TOP 10 OF ATLANTA AND METRO ATLANTA LUXURY REAL ESTATE AGENTS” - THE ATLANTAN Magazine, 2013, 2014, 2015
PENDING
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
3037 TOWERVIEW DRIVE
1247 CANTON WAY
15990 MANOR CLUB DRIVE*
BUCKHEAD | $1,550,000
DOWNTOWN ROSWELL | Flats starting at $539,900
ALPHARETTA | $1,599,900
ACTIVE
PENDING
JUST SOLD
1247 CANTON WAY
6087 CITY WALK LANE
6335 SUNBRIAR DRIVE
DOWNTOWN ROSWELL | Townhomes tarting at $539,900
ATLANTA | $450,000
CUMMING | $650,000
©MMXV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Artwork by Melissa Payne Baker, used with permission. *Represented Buyer.