Johns Creek Herald, February 13, 2014 by Appen Media Group

Health & Wellness Special section ►►PAGE 20

'Hooch coach steps down Owens resigns from football team ►►PAGE 12

College signings

Figueroa bows out

Recruits from local schools ►►PAGE 14

Councilman says goodbye ►►PAGE 8

February 13, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 7

Residents oppose Old Alabama Road mixed-use Say traffic at Medlock can’t stand any more By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Nearly 200 Johns Creek residents came out Feb. 2 to object to a 20-acre proposed mixed-use project at the southwest corner of Old Alabama Road and Medlock Bridge Road that would add retail/office development along with apartments and condominiums. The meeting was organized by the Johns Creek Community Association for its member neighborhoods to get a preview of the project and to talk face to face with the developer. The property is part of a 70-acre parcel owned by the Atlanta Athletic Club and is directly across the street from AAC’s main gate on Medlock Bridge Road. The rezoning request proposes 42,200 square feet of office and retail along with transitional housing consisting of 263 rental apartments including units above groundfloor retail and 24 condomini-

Rogers Bridge-Bell Road project: More residents oppose rezoning of Rogers BridgeBell roads residential plan. PAGE 4. ums or townhouses. It is early days yet for the property owned by the Atlanta Athletic Club and will be developed by Brand Properties LLC owned by R. Brand Morgan. Morgan told the residents at the JCCA meeting at Perimeter Church (just across the street from the proposed project) that he is not a buildand-flip developer. His company holds onto the projects it builds, a because of that, residents can be assured it will be successful and of high quality. “The Atlanta Athletic Club picked us for that reason. We build the best product,” he told residents. Morgan said he recognized

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Concerned Johns Creek residents turned out for two rezoning projects that will affect the northeast area of the city. the problems of building in an area already congested such as Medlock and Old Alabama. That was one reason the idea of “boutique grocery store” was

tossed out. It would generate too much traffic, he said. The Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) calls for lowdensity commercial use at

the intersection, transitioning down in intensity of use from commercial to multi-family

See ZONING, Page 4

Johns Creek’s desire for shared rec services meets with nods Sister rec directors enthusiastic to explore ideas By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – With the blessings of the new City Council, Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker is pursuing more bilateral or multilateral partnerships with other North Fulton cities for mutual benefit, and the top of his list is recreation and parks. Now that Bodker is off the City Council’s leash, he is ea-

BODKER

CREGGE

ger to explore ideas of sharing projects and services among other North Fulton cities and he is starting with recreation.

A straw poll of other North Fulton city officials shows there is not only interest, but enthusiasm for the idea. GLOVER “I am anxious to pursue a policy of parks without borders,” Bodker said. “The idea is to create a framework for

FREE Classic Beverage Packages* for two, includes wine and spirits

how we go forward to conduct recreation discussions. That would be for the mayor to meet with [other entities] and then bring back those discussions to the council.” The council would then discuss, consider and tweak it until the council had a policy it could support. Then, council would take it back to the other party and hammer out a final agreement. “We would then give it staff to implement – which is just the reverse process we have been operating under before.

FREE Gratuities* for two

The idea is to let the mayor be the mayor,” Bodker said. Roswell Recreation and Parks Director Joe Glover has one of the top four recreation departments in the country based on its third top-four finish for the Gold Medal award given by the National Parks and Recreation Association. He oversees a lot of parkland and has the budget to share. Is Roswell interested in sharing services? Glover says that is all over his radar

See SERVICES, Page 7

Onboard Credit up to $300* per stateroom

Experience it at celebritycruises.com/atl. To book, call 1-888-283-7275 or contact your travel agent. *Visit celebritycruises.com/atl for full terms and conditions. Cruise must be booked 11/29/13–2/28/14 (the “Offer Period”). Offer applies to 3-night and longer cruises departing 2/2014 – 3/2015; ocean view and higher staterooms booked at the non-discounted standard cruise fare. Other conditions apply. ©2014 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta & Ecuador.

PUBLIC SAFETY

2 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Snows don’t stop drunk drivers 770-442-3278 northfulton.com

319 North Main Street Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 SUBMIT YOUR: • News/releases • Sports and team photos • School events Email: news@northfulton.com FREE PUBLICITY for YOUR EVENT Post to northfulton.com calendar

COPSEY NAHED HURD NEWSROOM Revue & News • Jonathan Copsey jonathan@northfulton.com Forsyth Herald • Aldo Nahed aldo@forsythherald.com Johns Creek Herald • Hatcher Hurd hatcher@northfulton.com Milton Herald • Jonathan Copsey jonathan@northfulton.com ADVERTISING General Info, ext. 100 advertising@northfulton.com CLASSIFIEDS ext. 136 or ext. 100 classifieds@northfulton.com CIRCULATION for delivery questions, ext. 100 circulation@northfulton.com PUBLISHER Ray Appen, ext. 101 appen@northfulton.com DELIVERY POLICY

Newspapers are published weekly and delivered by carriers to subdivisions at no charge. Stop delivery requests are always honored and can be accomplished by calling 770-4423278 ext. 100. Publisher may exercise right to not publish any item for any reason.

appenmediagroup.com northfulton.com • forsythherald.com TWITTER

@revueandnews @forsythherald @jcherald @miltonherald

YOUTUBE

FACEBOOK

/appennewspapers /revueandnews /forsythherald /johnscreekherald /miltonherald

/appennewspapers

JOHNS CREEK TABLET APP Apple: bit.ly/176hWNh Android: bit.ly/16QUZiZ

One hits school bus

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The snows and ensuing metro-wide traffic jam Jan. 28 did not stop two men from allegedly driving dunk, one of them hitting a school bus. Police responded to reports of a crash at Waters Road and Cranchester Way at 6:25 p.m. on the day of the snows and

DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

DUI arrests ►► Adam John Britz, 18,

of Leeward Walk Circle, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 18 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failing to signal when changing lanes. ►► Dustin Nicholas Diagle, 19, of Ridge Hill Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Jan. 19 on Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Misty Jean Morrow, 28, of Grayson was arrested Jan. 19 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI. ►► Cesar A. Gomez-Villanueva,

POLICE BLOTTER All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

Road rage after snowjam traffic MILTON, Ga. – The snows of last month caused at least one

traffic jams. Witnesses said they saw a Mitsubishi Lancer slide off the side of the road and hit a sign. It then drove away. Police caught up with the Lancer at the scene of another crash – where it had hit the rear of a school bus. Witnesses there said the driver never hit the brakes before hitting the bus. The driver, Derrick James McMillan, 23, of Waters Mill Drive, Alpharetta, was taken through sobriety tests and

failed. He was arrested for DUI, driving too fast for conditions, driving with a suspended license, failure to exchange insurance information, reckless driving and failure to carry a license while driving. At 2 a.m. the next morning with traffic still snarled, police and crews were clearing the ramp from Ga. 400 at the top of Mansell Road. The ramp was closed as crews moved stalled or crashed vehicles. Traffic northbound on Ga.

22, of Webb Bridge Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 21 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Rebecca Levater Wilson, 25, of Rosemont Parkway, Roswell, was arrested Jan. 22 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and headlight requirements. ►► Daniel J. Butcher, 22, of Newport Bay Passage, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 23 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to signal when changing lanes. ►► Derek James Naus, 35, of Spinmaker Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 23 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, open container, reckless driving, possession of marijuana and speeding. ►► Alfredo Hernandez-Atonal, 38, of Calibre Creek Parkway, Roswell, was arrested Jan.

23 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, no license and tag light requirement. ►► Prakash D. Parmar, 48, of Smyrna was arrested Jan. 24 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, speeding, failure to maintain lane and failure to allow an emergency vehicle to pass. ►► Ryan Thomas Icard, 33, of Cranberry Creek, Roswell, was arrested Jan. 25 on Old Alabama Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Anglea Chyrel Dreisbach, 41, of Tucker was arrested Jan. 24 on Old Alabama Road in Alpharetta for DUI, open container, failure to maintain lane and no insurance. ►► Alisha Aileen, 22, of Suwanee was arrested Jan. 24 on Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI.

Norcross resident to become violent toward her fellow drivers. At 3:30 p.m., Jan. 28, during the middle of the day-long traffic jam, the victim called police to say he was threatened by a passing motorist. He said his car became stuck at the intersection of Redd Road and Hagood Road. While he and a bystander were trying to dislodge the car, a black Scion pulled alongside and the female driver began

yelling at the victim, saying, “I am going to pull my Glock out of the box and shoot you in the head.” The Scion then drove off. A check of the license plate turned up a suspect at a Norcross address.

Man talks himself into DUI charge ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Milton

LISTEN TO OUR SHOW Your Radio Hosts Jared Garfield

Brian Patton, CCIM

• Luxury homes $200k - 700k • Investment properties • Former Rich Dad, Poor Dad Coach

• Apartment complexes • Land deals • Office/industrial buildings

404-718-9126

770-634-4848

400 was also stopped for the work. While this was happening, a red Jaguar allegedly sped past all the workers and police. The driver, David Scott Postier, 51, of Grey Abbey Drive, Alpharetta, was pulled over and the officer noted Postier smelled of alcohol. He failed sobriety tests. Postier was arrested for DUI, driving with an open container of alcohol, reckless driving, littering and failure to obey traffic directions.

Drug arrests ►► Shu K. Yu, 19, of

Limeridge Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 23 on Highway 9 in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and texting while driving. ►► Sarah Elizabeth Feehan, 18, of Seale Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 19 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, possession of drug-related items, open container and tag light required. ►► Bryan Anthony McLaughlin, 20, of Ivy Summit Court, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 20 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana, possession of drug-related items, tag light required and underage possession of alcohol.

man argued his way up from a speeding ticket to a DUI charge Feb. 1. An Alpharetta Police officer spotted a vehicle driving westbound on Windward Parkway at a high rate of speed. The officer clocked it as going 50 mph in a 30 mph zone using radar. Getting behind the suspect car, the officer pulled it over. The driver, John

See BLOTTER, Page 3

AM550 and FM102.9 WDUN

Saturday 3:00 pm EST

www.RichLifeRealEstateShow.com

PUBLIC SAFETY

Edward Hill, 46, of Deer Creek Place, Milton, asked the officer to explain how his speed was estimated, disputing that he was speeding. The officer notes in his report that Hill was combative and uncooperative. A ticket was made out for speeding and the officer asked Hill to sign it. Hill refused, allegedly repeating, “Take me to jail.” After being given several chances to sign the citation, Hill was arrested. When he was placed in the police car, the officer noted Hill’s breath smelled of alcohol. A search of Hill’s car turned up receipts for that night from several bars totaling more than $120. Hill was charged with speeding and DUI.

Pawn shop helps nab burglar ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A suspected burglar was arrested Jan. 27 when she allegedly tried to pawn items stolen from a residence. Police were called to the pawn shop on Mansell Road at 5:50 p.m. when a suspicious person came in. The person, identified as Rochelle Williams,

We have helped hundreds of students in the Atlanta area attend their dream college and pursue the career that’s best for them.

New owner, Adam Hyzdu, brings four generations of fine Italian food and all the recipes from his family’s four La Palma restaurants on Long Island plus one of the finest chefs in the country. Ingredients are the freshest. Many herbs grown ourselves. Pasta is imported from Italy. Fresh fish flown in daily. All sauces, prepared from scratch and our extra virgin olive oil is imported from Calabria, Italy. We may be a little difficult to find, but once you do, you’ll never forget!

Kroger

Waffle House

. e Rd

7 week one-on-one coaching program for high school and college students

Once you visit us, you won’t want to have Italian food anywhere else!

idg

OFF

Get your high school student back on track in just seven weeks

r te B Sta

40%

MILTON, Ga. – A shoplifting suspect tried to flee from the Windward Walmart Jan. 30 in a purple car. He was caught almost immediately. Police were called to the Walmart at 3:43 p.m. after employees said they saw a man dressed in a khaki jacket and Army hat take an Xbox game console, tablet computer and a stereo and try to leave

tor

DRY CLEAN

Shoplifter flees in purple car

nec

New Customer Only

allegedly admitted to the thefts and the stolen merchandise was found in the car. Dowdell was charged with shoplifting. The driver was released without charge.

Con

Eco-Friendly dry cleaning store

Windward Parkway less than a mile away and spoke to the two occupants. The passenger, Dustin Matthew Dowdell, 25, of Cumming, matched the description of the suspect. He

Ray Moss

FREE Pick-up and Delivery

without paying for them. When employees tried to stop him, the suspect fled, getting into a purple Pontiac with Tennessee tags. Police found a car matching the description on

Rd.

Continued from Page 2

23, of Raintree Drive, Roswell, fit the description of a burglary suspect from earlier in the day. The victim told police someone had entered her Summerfield Drive home between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. and stole a bracelet, necklace, watch and silverware. Also taken was a ring with the victim’s name on it. All items were found in Williams’ bag, except for the silverware. Williams said she got the items from her mother’s home with the permission of her father. Williams was arrested for burglary.

Jone s Br idge

Blotter:

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 3

• Find your sweet spot • Unleash your true motivations and passions • Discover your unique success path

You have to present coupon when you drop off. Not valid with any other offers. Coupon excludes household items, drapes, suedes, and leather.

Please use three times.

770-623-6977 404-587-7068 5805 State Bridge Rd. #J, Johns Creek, GA (between Hobby Lobby & Publix)

www.expresscleaners123.com

Dal Cuore New York Trattoria

CALL TO RECEIVE A FREE ONE-ON-ONE COACHING SESSION 404-662-2205 www.StudentLaunchPad.com

2100 Ray Moss Connector, Johns Creek, GA 30022 (at State Bridge and Jones Bridge, behind QT and Waffle House) Wed.-Sat. 5pm till close • Sun.-Tues. for catering/parties (on/off premises)

678-867-0854 • www.DalCuoreRestaurant.com

NEWS

4 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Rogers Bridge development draws heat Residents oppose subdivision although family has owned land 200 years By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, GA. – When your family’s name is the same as the city’s signpost for the road, it means you have history in the area. But the Rogers’ family name did nothing to assuage other residents’ concerns about a proposed 273-lot rezoning the Rogers Family Partnership has coming before the March 4 Planning Commission. At a Feb. 4 zoning meeting of the Johns Creek Community Association at Perimeter Church there were as many area residents (almost 200) jammed into church meeting hall to voice their concerns as the other project heard the same night (See Page 1). Michael Rogers, a real estate broker who lives in Buckhead now, told residents his family has owned the 104-acre tract of land five generations going back to 1830s. The 1839 farmhouse his great-greatgreat grandfather built still stands on the property. “That is almost 200 years of stewardship of the land,” he said. Now the family has a contract to buy an adjacent 40 acres that was up for sale to developers. The family wants develop 40 acres of their land to in effect keep their acreage holdings intact. The homes Rogers would develop are adjacent to existing subdivisions. The property the family wishes to buy is a bequeathal

Zoning: Continued from Page 1 rental to owner-occupied townhouses. The residential will be 14 units to the acre, which Morgan described as not too

of land to Young Harris College. The college is selling the land. Rogers said it was a taxfree exchange in which the family is in effect swapping its land for development to preserve a 100-acre tract. But the development of another subdivision with 273 lots would take away more of the rural nature of the area, and the additional homes would add to the congestion of the Bell Road-Rogers Bridge area. Residents are further concerned that the family is also rezoning the rest of the family acreage for single-family detached homes. It is currently zoned Agricultural (AG-1) which allows for 1-acre lots. Ashton Woods is the developer, and plans to build homes from 2,500 square feet to 4,000 square feet with a price range of $600,000 to the $800,000s. Mike Busher, vice president of acquisitions for Ashton Woods, said the company was in the process of designing all new elevations for the project, but he said it would be an “understated but elegant” development. “We understand the area and we want to raise the bar if we can,” Busher said. But the residents didn’t want the bar moved at all. They said they were happy with the woods and pasture that they currently enjoy. One resident said the Rogers’ can come out on weekends and enjoy their land for a dense as transitional housing. That drew some derisive hoots from area residents who noted in their questions and in their statements to Morgan that the T-intersection of Old Alabama and Medlock Bridge is near gridlock during peak hours already.

GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds • Page 34

ALPHARETTA, New antique mall open, 230 S. Main St, 678-867-2326. CUMMING LOCATION: 438 Canton Rd. 678341-8080. www.thegreenbeanexchange.com. Open daily 10am-6pm. FLOWERY BRANCH, HUGE! 250+ sellers! Infant-TEEN. Clothing, toys, books, shoes, baby equipment, furniture, electronics, more! 2/13-2/16, 9am-6pm. 4610 Elk Ridge Court. Restocking daily.

DEADLINE

To place garage sale ads: Noon Friday prior week Call 770-442-3278 or email classifieds@northfulton.com

weekend getaway. “But we have to live with the traffic. You don’t live here,” the resident said. But Rogers replied to that saying, “We preserved our property, while the ones who owned yours sold out.” Rogers’ position is that they are still preserving their land, swapping their land for development and in turn taking the other property “off the market.” But Rogers said what he cannot do – as some suggested – that they donate the land for The Rogers their land. a park. “I have uncles and cousins who own just as much as I do. There are nine families involved,” he said. He said his relations are not prepared to donate their birthright, nor would he ask them to. If some sort of publicprivate partnership could be worked, say with the city, then that could be a possibility. But short of that, the family will do what is best for them. The bottom line was Rogers could not make guarantees whether the property would be subject to future development. “We’re keeping our options open. But we have no plans to develop the rest of the property now. But it is in our best interests to rezone the entire [as-

family wants to rezone part of

Traffic generated by the retail/office center and traffic from apartments and townhouses could well bring about complete gridlock. “I can’t tell you how to resolve traffic. I can only tell you I will do what Johns Creek [Planning Department] tells me to do,” Morgan said. There were other questions Morgan could not answer, such as what will the AAC do with the remaining acreage fronting the west side Medlock Bridge Road? He said he does not own that land nor is he privy to what the private club is thinking. But with at least two major PGA tournaments scheduled there in the coming two years, Morgan said he thought AAC would have to keep the land undeveloped to continue to use it for event parking. Others expressed concern that commercial property’s density and lack of landscaping on the Old Alabama side detracted from the rural

character of Old Alabama and clashed with the Perimeter Church landscaping (it sits back on 100 acres). Residents also noted it would be harder not only for themselves to get in and out in peak times but for the church’s school as well. The meeting went on for more than an hour. But Morgan promised to meet again with homeowner associations to listen to their concerns again and work for some solutions. “We are open to renegotiating,” Morgan said. “We have heard what the Atlanta Athletic Club has to say. Now we are ready to compromise with you.” One item he put on the table was to eliminate some or all of the apartments and have more owner-occupied townhouses. The project is scheduled to come before the Planning Commission March 4, and then for a final hearing before the City Council March 24.

semblage] now,” Rogers said. As is often the case in Johns Creek rezoning, residents were concerned what effect more traffic will have on the congestion in the Bell Road area. “Traffic is brutal and it’s only going to get worse,” one resident said. Residents asked that the property be developed at a less density as a way to ease congestion and overcrowding in schools. But the developer said they are only asking the same density as has been developed in the area. The project will come before the city Planning Commission March 4. It will be heard by the City Council March24.

Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 5

PRESIDENTS’ DAY SALE Friday - Monday, February 14 - 17

LEGENDARY BRANDS. ABUNDANT SELECTION. REAL SAVINGS. American Eagle, Banana Republic Factory Store, Burberry, Cole Haan, Elie Tahari, Gap Outlet, Guess, J.Crew, Jones New York, Juicy Couture, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Loft Outlet, Lucky Brand, Nautica, Nike, Restoration Hardware, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Samsonite, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger, Tumi, Ugg Australia, Under Armour, Vince Camuto, White House Black Market and more. Stores vary per center. Join our VIP Shopper Club to enjoy additional savings at www.premiumoutlets.com/vip NORTH GEORGIA PREMIUM OUTLETS • 140 STORES • DAWSONVILLE, GA • GA 400 NORTH CALHOUN PREMIUM OUTLETS • 50 STORES • CALHOUN, GA • I-75, EXIT 312 MON-SAT 10-9, SUN 11-7 • VISIT PREMIUMOUTLETS.COM • FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

6 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

Avossa named to governor’s emergency weather task force One of 32 metro leaders to help state prepare for emergency events By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com ATLANTA – The Fulton County School System will have a seat at the table when Gov. Nathan Deal convenes his Severe Winter Weather Task Force this month. The panel will review better ways of handling unprecedented weather events

such as “Snow Jam 2014,” and how to coordinate the response from a regional perspective. Fulton Schools Superintendent Robert Avossa is one of only three education officials on the 32-member task force that includes representatives from police, fire, government and the business community. Other school officials on

the task force include Emily Lembeck, superintendent of the Marietta City School System, and Michael Thurmond, who leads the DeKalb County School System. “I’m honored that the governor has asked me to participate on the task force,” said Avossa. “There are a lot of lessons to be learned, and understanding there are some [decisions] we have control over and others that we do not,

See AVOSSA, Page 30

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

‘Drill’ for late start goes well School officials test preparedness for starting school later ATLANTA – Last Thursday night, ahead of a possible winter weather event, Fulton School officials sent out a note to parents advising them school could be delayed two hours the following morning if roads got icy overnight. After being burned for late and lack of information during the weather event a week earlier, school officials said the warning was sent out in an “abundance of caution.” While the precipitation never materialized, Fulton Superintendent Robert Avossa said the warning was used as a drill to test how parents could be kept informed, while making sure principals and schools had plans in place to open late. “We’ve never really practiced starting late or dismissing early when it’s not planned [with advance warning],” said Avossa. “So this was our first

drill on protocol for communications and organization.” He said when the delays and early dismissals are planned well in advance, the procedure is much simpler than when it is a response to a developing event. “How do we evacuate students and get 900 bus drivers to schools when they don’t live and sleep in the bus barn and may live be several counties away?” he asked. Practicing the response, he said, helps develop plans to answer those questions. Starting this week, Fulton parents are being asked to provide input and suggestions on how the school system can be more responsive and prepared for emergencies. Avossa said a tab will be located on the home page of the system’s website (fultonschools.org) for input. He will then take this information to the Severe Weather Task Force, which Avossa was appointed to by Gov. Nathan Deal. —Candy Waylock

Business Services • Small Business Accounting As a small business owner you have more important things to do than to keep your own books. We take care of your books for you, so you can get back to the job of running your business and generating profits! • Part-Time CFO Services Growing businesses often reach a point where they need professional financial advice, but can’t afford a full-time CFO or comptroller. If you’re fortunate enough to be in this position then we have the perfect solution for you. Our Part-Time CFO service gives you a professional financial manager who works with you to help guide your business to success. • Cash Flow Management A wise business owner once said, “Happiness is a positive cash flow.” As a business owner, I’m sure you agree. Everything is better when your cash-in exceeds your cash-out. • Tax Planning and Preparation • QuickBooks Services and More

Services For Individuals • Personal Planning • Estate Planning • Tax Planning and Preparation • The Family CFO and More

12735 Morris Road Extension, Suite 140, Alpharetta, GA, 30004 Phone: (770) 777-0172 • info@whitworthcpa.com

COMMUNITY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 7

VERY UGLY DRIVEWAY? Old? Discolored? Cracked? You need

McKemey Concrete and Hardscapes

Save $50

on any job over $300

Cannot combine with other offers. Expires 10 days after publication.

on any job over $3500 Cannot combine with other offers. Expires 10 days after publication.

“The Best Concrete Company” Honest • Professional Competitive Many Local References Free Estimates

Ocee Park, Johns Creek.

Services:

Dave McKemey 678-648-2010

Continued from Page 1

screen. “We’ve been trying to do that for a while,” Glover said. “You want to do more things with younger people, what appeals to them. There is always room for plenty more. “In recreation, we cooperate with everybody. North Fulton recreation [directors] have discussions all the time,” he said. “We all want the same thing, which is to serve as many people we can in a way that makes fiscal sense.” Glover said he is glad to hear Bodker and Johns Creek want to sit down to talk about shared services. He said he is ready any time. Everyone talks about an aquatic center such as the one Forsyth County recently opened. But it is a big ticket item – as much as $12 million or $14 million. That won’t happen for North Fulton unless the cities decide to cooperate and share costs. Jim Cregge has a unique take on the idea of shared services. He is not only the Milton Recreation and Parks Department director, he is also the former chairman of the Alpharetta Recreation Commission. As coach and administrator, he has been hands-on involved in local recreation for a number of years. Cregge’s first reaction to the idea that Johns Creek wants to explore sharing recreation services was two words: “Wow. Wow.” He was excited, to say the least. He said Alpharetta and Milton have been working closely together on recreation for some years now, and he has found it to be successful. “The cooperation between Alpharetta and Milton has been fabulous. It has worked very well. I believe it has been a win-win for both cities to work

Save $250

SAVE NOW ✔ Webb Bridge Park turf field, Alpharetta.

There are a lot of people from both cities who could use both parks ... And if Johns Creek ever wanted to talk to Milton, of course we would listen. JIM CREGGE Milton Recreation and Parks Department Director

together in recreation,” Cregge said. “I think Alpharetta Recreation has received much more financial benefit than they would have in the old way of doing things. “And the citizens of Milton have definitely received more benefit than they could have possibly imagined,” he said. “Any time you have folks working together rather than trying to invent the same wheel, it’s a plus for the taxpayer.” Cregge said while it looks like the city with fewer recreation resources gets more out of shared services than the city with more established resources, it does not always work that way. While programs such as baseball and football are popular and slots are easy to fill, Alpharetta and Roswell have found it helps to have more participation in less popular

sports or activities to defray the cost of the programs. Glover said many programs that they offer could not be supported by city residents alone. Just how the North Fulton recreation systems would mesh would require some threshing out. Cregge said an accommodation seems to makes sense for Alpharetta and Johns Creek because Alpharetta’s Webb Bridge Park and Johns Creek’s Ocee Park are so close together. “There are a lot of people from both cities who could use both parks. Would that make sense? Absolutely. And if Johns Creek ever wanted to talk to Milton, of course we would listen,” Cregge said. Any time the local governments work together, it’s a great step forward, he said.

twitter.com/northfulton

Expires 10 Days After Publication

✔

Expires 10 Days After Publication

Reference Code: APPEN

678-506-0006

8 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Figueroa bows out, receives accolades JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – City Councilman Ivan Figueroa said goodbye at the end of his last City Council meeting Jan. 27, and many residents came forward to say goodbye to the last of “The Originals,” those members of the City Council who had served since the city’s inception. He along with Dan McCabe, Liz Hausmann, Bev Miller, Karen Richardson and Randall Johnson were the first serving councilmembers along with Mayor Mike Bodker. For seven years, Figueroa devoted all his spare energies to creating a new city and helping to create the template for service to the city. That meant not only attending council meetings but becoming educated in all areas of city government – zoning, city planning, public safety, recreation, public works, traffic and perhaps the toughest of all – community relations. Many came forward at the “public comment” portion that comes at the end of the meeting to thank him for is service.

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Ivan Figueroa receives a certificate of appreciation from the Ed Isakson-Alpharetta YMCA, where he served as a Y board member. From left are YMCA Board member Jim Paine, Figueroa and YMCA Executive Director Scott Doll. Certificate of Recognition for advanced training. He was appointed in 2011 to the state Workforce Investment Board by Gov. Nathan Deal. He served as a member of the Board of Directors for Senior Services North Fulton and the Ed IsaksonAlpharetta YMCA. Figueroa has served as team manager for Destination Imagination, a teen creativity group at Chattahoochee High School. The councilman was

also honored for his support of the arts in the city that now boasts an orchestra, a theater, the Johns Creek Arts Center and the creation of a public art program for the city. State Senate President Pro Tem David Shafer also sent a representative to commend Figueroa for his service as a founding member of the City Council. A detachment of eight Eagle Scouts was also present to thank him for his support of Scouting in Johns Creek. Even Karen Figueroa, his wife, stepped forward to congratulate her husband for his public service. “Seven years ago, I didn’t know what we were getting into,” she said. “I hated politics, and often played the devil’s advocate. But what I learned from my husband was that there is always a second

side to any issue. “And we don’t always know what that is,” she said. “So he got me to see things in a different light.” The family is now moving to St. Simons Island, Ga., where they look forward to leading “a quieter life.” “We’re looking forward to watching the pine needles turn brown,” she said. When it was Figueroa’s turn, he offered his thanks for the support he had has a member of council. “I learned a long time ago sitting here that it takes the help of all the citizens to get anything done,” Figueroa said. “I am thankful that there were so many things I was able to participate in. “Tonight, it is a bittersweet night to say goodbye. I look forward to seeing what Johns Creek becomes,” he said.

Providingg Practical Legal g Solutions

REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE NETWORK, INC. IS NOW HOMEBRIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.

For 25 years, we've been making the home loan process easier, so it’s time we simpli�ed our name. Faster answers, �exible solutions, and a personal approach to home mortgages.

• Medical, Dental, Chiropractic Malpractice • Personal Injury Claims • Landlord/Tenant Litigation • Real Property Tax Appeals • Contract Disputes

Mark D. Sperry

3175 Satellite Boulevard, Bldg 600, Suite 100 Duluth, GA 30096 770.685.6709 visit easy.homebridge.com

SPERRY LAW FIRM, LLC

10475 Medlock Bridge Road, Suite 215, Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.sperrylawllc.com | 404.492.9377

News@NorthFulton.com

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com

Ed Isakson-Alpharetta YMCA Executive Director Scott Doll and YMCA Board member Jim Paine presented Figueroa with a framed certificate thanking him for his work with the “Y” both as a board member of the YMCA and for being its advocate in Johns Creek. “You helped the Y to serve Johns Creek. You not only supported us financially, but you introduced like-minded people to help us as well,” Doll said. “You were also instrumental in the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce and the re-formation of the Rotary Club of Johns Creek.” Paine said Figueroa “answered right away,” when he was asked to be on the YMCA Board of Directors. “We wanted to thank you for all your support. It has meant a lot,” Paine said. Roger Wise, representing Secretary of State Brian Kemp, brought a proclamation from the secretary stating Figueroa has been named an Outstanding Citizen of Georgia in recognition of his service to the city. Among his other achievements: Figueroa was the first member of the Johns Creek City Council to receive a Georgia Municipal Association

SEND US YOUR NEWS

Former councilman’s farewell bittersweet

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Cherry Kijafa Crepes

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 9

Sweet Perfection

The Best Breakfast in Atlanta is located here in Alpharetta. Eating breakfast can be just a meal or it can be an event. It can be an event because the food is so fresh, so made from scratch, so healthy and savory that, well, it’s no longer just eating. It becomes an indulgence — a reward you give yourself. The Original Pancake House turns your breakfast into an event that helps you get through the week – something that you can look forward to and enjoy instead of just having a meal. Enjoy our various breakfast courses, ranging from sausage and eggs to french crepes. All made from scratch. All fresh. All indulgently delicious.

$3 OFF

One coupon per table. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Mar. 13, 2014

Any purchase of $25 or more

Any purchase of $13 or more

The Original Pancake House

GA 400

$5 OFF

Regions Bank

Windward Pkwy.

Cabernet

The Best Breakfast in Atlanta (678) 393-1355 | OriginalPancakeHouse.org | 5530 Windward Pkwy • Alpharetta | Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm | Sat & Sun 7am - 3pm

10 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

City has Feb. 13 open house on Abbotts Bridge construction JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – An open house about proposed improvements on Abbotts Bridge Road has been rescheduled for Feb. 13 at Johns Creek City Council chambers at City Hall. The original meeting set for Jan. 30 was cancelled because of inclement weather. Public Works Department staff members will be on-hand to explain displays, discuss the improvements and answer questions during the open house, scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Planned improvements for Abbotts Bridge include: • adding a center turn lane • biking shoulders • enhanced sidewalks on the north side of the road from Abbotts Elementary School to Ocee Library The project will run between Jones Bridge and Parsons roads west of Medlock Bridge Road. Construction of the project is set to start in 2015. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by calling Transportation Engineer Cindy Jenkins at 678512-3200. For more information, visit www.JohnsCreekGA.gov.

If you go What: Abbotts Bridge Road Improvement Plan When: Feb. 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. Where: City Council chambers, 3rd Floor, 12000 Findley Road

Share your opinions NorthFulton.com

Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 11

PRUDENTIAL GEORGIA REALTY HAS A NEW NAME...

Georgia Properties

SOLD

Georgia Properties BHHSGeorgia.com

A Sign of Quality for Real Estate. When the world’s most respected company puts its name on a real estate sign, that’s a sign buyers and sellers will want to see. The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand signals a defining moment in real estate. Our vision is to bring a new level of quality and innovation to the industry. We are proud to be among the elite entrusted to call ourselves Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. And that’s...

Good to know.

For More Information: BHHSGeorgia.com or 770-992-4100 ©2013 An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. was named the No. 1 company in Barron’s annual ranking of the world’s 100 most respected companies.

SPORTS

12 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

’Hooch football coach stepping down By MIKE BLUM news@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK – Chattahoochee head football coach Michael Owens resigned last week due to health reasons after serving in the position for only one season. Owens has been dealing with gastrointestinal tumors since he was diagnosed in 2012. “I’ve fought it for three months, but my health has gone down because of the effects from the chemo. I’m not getting any better, and I can’t physically coach,” he said. Owens plans to stay on at Chattahoochee as a teacher, and help out in some capacity in athletics if possible. He has been a coach for 25 years, starting the program at Peachtree Ridge and serving as a top assistant on Brookwood’s 2010 state championship team. “Football coaching is a calling, not a job,” Owens said. “Coaches do it because they love kids and want to help young men, and football is an avenue. It’s hard to walk away from that.” The Cougars went 4-6 in Owens’ lone season as head coach. He replaced Terry Crowder, who led Chattahoochee to a state championship in 2010 and left to become head coach at Creekview in Cherokee County after nine years

ARE YOU READY TO START EARNING DOLLARS RATHER THAN CENTS?

with the Cougars. Chattahoochee graduated a number of talented skill position players off last season’s squad, and Owens’ replacement will face a difficult task reviving the school’s football fortunes. The Cougars went 32-6 in Crowder’s last three seasons as head coach, but most of the talent Owens inherited was in the graduating senior class. Chattahoochee opened in 1991, and three nearby high schools have opened since then, all drawing from the Cougars’ district. The team has switched back and forth in recent years between the two highest classifications in the Georgia High School Association, with the football team winning its recent state title in the lower classification of the two.

Featured Packages All Season Long

Girls Just Wanna Have Wine Girls Just Wanna Have Wine

Escape overnight with the girls and enjoy a day filled with pampering massages, spa lunch and a winery tour & tasting.

Sparty

A Spa-Party is the perfect blend of party, renewal & relaxation. Gather the girls and catch up on the gossip with a glass of bubbly and relaxing spa treatments.

Tipsy Canvas

An overnight package with an evening in the Chateau Art Gallery sipping wine and painting your own personal masterpiece with a skilled artist.

Wine Tasting Experience

An overnight package geared towards the avid wine enthusiast. Spend an evening discussing aspects of viticulture, history, and food pairing.

START EARNING 1.20% APY TODAY!

Flexible 30 Month Certificate of Deposit::

• Introductory 1.20% APY* for deposits of $100,000 or more. • The interest rate paid on the CD will be equivalent to our 36 month rate (currently at 1.20% APY*). • The interest rate on your account will be fixed until you request a rate increase equal to the 36 month CD rate which may occur once during this term. • You may not make any deposits into your account until maturity. Your deposit will cease to earn interest at maturity. Early withdrawl penalty may apply. *Annual Percentage Yield (APY)

www.touchmarknb.com

3651 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, Ga. 30005 •

(770) 407-6700

Dining Under the Stars

Delight your taste buds with an international culinary journey, dining al fresco under the stars surrounded by lush vineyards.

Winemaker Wanna Be

Become a Winemaker for the evening. Learn to blend your own wine and create a bottle of wine that is customized to your personal palate.

Like us on Facebook for Special Offers.

To Book Your Next Girls Getaway, 678-425-0900 x41 Visit www.chateauelan.com for complete details. I-85 Exit 126, 30 Minutes North of the Perimeter

Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 13

SPORTS

14 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Miltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paulk top list of college recruits

WHY PAY MORE TO PRINT?ÂŽ Injured Eaglesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; UP TO

30% SAVINGS 100% GUARANTEE FREE DELIVERY*

RB signs with Tennessee By MIKE BLUM news@northfulton.com

How much will you save?

Find out at your local Cartidge World: Johns Creek â&#x20AC;˘ 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd., Ste. 104 770-232-9990 â&#x20AC;˘ www.cartridgeworldusa.com/store405

$3 OFF INK or $10 OFF TONER Good on any one Cartridge World brand product. Not valid with any other offer. No cash value. Limit one per customer, household orbusiness, with minimum purchase*. Valid on first purchase only and at participating stores. Expires 12/31/2014 ALU Coupon Code: Appen JC * See your local Cartridge World store for details. ÂŠ2012 Cartridge World North America LLC. All rights reserved. Cartridge World and Why pay more to print? Are registered trademarks of Cartridge World North America LLC.

&5&7 3UHS 6$7 $&7

5HDGLQJ

NORTH FULTON, Ga. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; After a hectic 2013 college football signing day in North Fulton, last week was much less dramatic. Only one area player signed to play with one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power conferences. Milton High School running back Treyvon Paulk was the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest profile recruit, signing with Tennessee despite missing most of the past season with a knee injury. Paulk will be a teammate of former Alpharetta quarterback Joshua Dobbs, who ended the season as the Volsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; starter Chad Toliver, who starred in his only season for Milton as a running back, kick returner and defensive back, will play both football and lacrosse at Rutgers, with lacrosse his primary sport. Punter Matt Moskowitz signed a letter of intent to attend the Air Force Academy, while defensive back Jordan Genovese will be a part of Kennesaw Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fledgling football program. Joining Moskowitz at Air Force will be Alpharetta wide receiver Daniel Clements. Andre Harton, who also started at wide receiver for the Raiders, signed with Holy Cross along with Alpharetta safety Todd Stratton. Defensive lineman Auzoyah

Alufohai, who has played just one season of football, signed with Kennesaw State. Linebacker Bryce Grauss, the Defensive Player of the Year in North Fulton, was not heavily recruited by larger schools and signed with Division II Adams State in Colorado. Chattahoochee wide receiver Colin Lisa and quarterback Taz Wilson both signed with Division I Alabama-Birmingham, sticking with their original commitments after the school made a head coaching change. Running back Chase Nelson signed with Wofford and will join former North-

view quarterback Evan Jacks, who started for the Terriers as a redshirt freshman, and Centennial wide receiver Wade Francis on the roster. Chattahoochee wide receiver Avery Ward signed with Mercer, which played its first football season in 2013 and has a number of local players in its roster. Johns Creek linebacker Todd Blackwell, who missed most of the season with an injury, will also play for Mercer. Blessed Trinity, which reached the quarterfinals of the Class AAA playoffs, had

See PAULK, Page 15

8450 HIGH HAMPTON CHASE Johns Creek, GA 30022

6FKHGXOH <RXU )UHH &5&7 (YDOXDWLRQ 7KLV 6DWXUGD\ DP SP 6SDFH LV OLPLWHG &DOO IRU DSSRLQWPHQW 2PHJD /HDUQLQJÂ&#x160; &HQWHU -RKQV &UHHN

2OG $ODEDPD 5G 6XLWH -RKQV &UHHN *$

Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Paulk: Continued from Page 14 one of area’s largest signing classes. Kicker Marc Nolan signed with FCS playoff qualifier Stony Brook as a punter. Safety Chris Keegan, who missed most of the season with an injury, will play at Harvard, joining former Centennial quarterback Jimmy Meyer. Zach Mitchler, who starred as both an offensive lineman and linebacker, will be among the local group of athletes who will get Kennesaw State’s program started. Other BT players who will play in college next season are linebacker Carter McManes (Samford), offensive lineman Tray Cato (Liberty) and wide receiver Colin Bradley (Centre), with Bradley joining a number of local athletes at the Kentucky school. Signing from Roswell were receiver Kendall Smith with Limestone (S.C.) and offensive lineman Clayton McDonnell with Millsaps (Miss.). Defensive back Josh Selembo will be a preferred walk-on at Georgia Tech.

A number of local athletes are still talking to colleges. Among them are Milton defensive lineman Grant Peagler; Centennial’s Christian Robinson and Alex Estes; Roswell’s Devonte Hill, Colin McCauley, Matt Cory and Justin Auer; Chattahoochee’s Nick Williams, Malik Stephens, Montel Austin and Kieron Ashley; Alpharetta’s Jay Youngblood, DeAndre Watkins, Jalen Johnson and Elijah Burnette; Mount Pisgah’s Jacob Delk, Browning Dunn and Tommy Pease; Blessed Trinity’s Austin Werkheiser and Fellowship Christian’s Hunter Bryant. Two former North Fulton players signed with Division I schools last week. Running back C.J. Leggett, who played his sophomore and junior seasons at Chattahoochee before transferring to North Gwinnett, signed with Georgia Tech. Quarterback A.J. Bush, who started at Milton as a junior after transferring from Chattahoochee, signed with Nebraska. Bush started as a senior for AAAAAA state champion Norcross, which may be adding another North Fulton athlete next season to its long list of transfers over the years in football and basketball.

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 15

Elastic 11 Month CD

• Minimum $1,000 To Open

• No Early Withdrawal Penalty After 7 Days

Please Contact Us For More Information 770-455-4989 SBA & Commercial Loans: 770-455-4985

• Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans • USDA (B&I) Loans • Commercial Loans • Commercial Real Estate Loans • Automobile Loans

Residential Mortgage Loans

James Lee (NMLS# 796712) 770-454-1867 Sandy Na (NMLS# 983548) 770-454-1861 Mortgage Lending Office (Norcross Branch): 5385 Jimmy Carter Blvd., #100, Norcross, GA 30093 SBA LOANS RANKED #1 IN GA (Fiscal Year 2009 – 2012 in total dollar amount) SWIFT Code: GMCBUS3A SBA Preferred Lender

www.metrocitybank.com

Put a little Romance in Your Life... Try Dancing Dance your way to New Year resolution success:

• Lose Weight • Relieve Stress • Stay Fit and Toned • Boost Confidence

20% OFF

Storewide

40% OFF

$25

Special Orders

Introductory Lesson Call Now and Start Dancing Tonight.

Full Service Interior Design

Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Fresh New Look. Same Quality & Service Serv You Expect. “Best of Roswell Award Winner “B for Customer Service 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013” Come in and see why!

Open Daily Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 1-5 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Roswell tuscanyfinefurnishings.com • 770-993-0640

7855 North Point Parkway www.arthurmurrayatl.com|678.795.9854

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

Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald

Have You Got Rhythm? Here’s what it really means when your heart skips a beat “While heart arrhythmias are common,” said Niraj Sharma, MD, a cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist with Gwinnett Medical Center, “their causes can be hard to pinpoint. They are initiated by electrical signals that fire too fast, too slow or irregularly.” So if your heart flutters, you feel light on your feet – as if you’re floating on air – and your pulse is sky-high. Are you in love…or are you in trouble? Here are some guidelines: Steadying the Beat Here are four types of rhythm disorders and what you can do about them: Ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation This dangerously racing heartbeat condition is caused by abnormal electrical pulses in the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles). This rhythm can become irregular without warning, causing insufficient oxygen to be delivered to the brain. When this happens, patients experience sudden cardiac arrest unless medical help is provided immediately.

“The most effective way to correct the rhythm and prevent fibrillation,” said Dr. Sharma, “is with an implantable cardiac defibrillator. No amount or type of drug is nearly as effective.” Gwinnett Medical Center recently became only the second hospital system in Georgia, and the only one in North Metro Atlanta, to conduct a subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillator (SICD) procedure. SICD enables a defibrillator to be placed directly under the skin without touching the heart, an amazing innovation in cardiovascular care that does not involve placement of a wire inside the heart. This offers an important alternative particularly for patients who have no vascular access or younger patients who may require multiple defibrillators during their life. Bradycardia When an inactive person’s resting heartbeat falls below 60 beats per minute, the arrhythmia is known as bradycardia. As a result, blood flow to the brain may be insufficient and cause fatigue, dizziness or fainting. Bradycardia becomes more likely with age. Although treatment isn’t always necessary, tests can evaluate whether it is neces-

sary to implant an electronic pacemaker under the skin to speed up the heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation Supraventricular tachycardia, with its racing, uncomfortable and irregular rhythm, is a faster-than-normal heartbeat caused by abnormal electrical pulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria). This irregularity is not usually life-threatening, but because it prevents the atria from properly delivering blood to the ventricles, the likelihood for a stroke increases fivefold. “With atrial fibrillation, tests should be done to further evaluate the patient for the potential cause and to assess their risk for stroke,” said Dr. Sharma. “Usually this condition can be treated with medication or cardioversion, an electric shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.” Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) PVCs, with their skips and flutters, are the most common arrhythmia, according to Dr. Sharma. “They originate within an irritable area of the heart’s lower chambers,” he said, “disturbing the electrical signals and causing an irregular, or extra, beat.” In a normal heart, causes

LESLIE S. GASKILL, M.D. For All Your Primary Care and Family Medicine Needs • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine • Gynecological Care • Integrative Medicine

• Laser Acupuncture • Cutting Edge Prevention of Heart Attacks, Strokes and Diabetes

See article at www.drlesliegaskill.com on “In the News” tab.

Leslie S. Gaskill, M.D., L.L.C. 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Suite 201 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-495-9995 Drlesliegaskill.com Plaquebusters.net

of PVCs include heart-pounding, stressful activities, high anxiety or a rush of adrenaline. Most PVCs are harmless and almost everyone will experience them. Determining whether your beat-gone-bad is something se-

rious or simply a case of lovesickness could save your life. Visit gmcheart.com to browse through our cardiac patient library, see patient stories and find a cardiologist near you. Or call 678-312-5000 to find a physician.

Doctor’s Hearing Center offers Worry Free Hearing Care Solutions Doctor’s Hearing Center is now open in Johns Creek to provide hearing care for the general community, diagnostic hearing and balance services for physicians and industry or academic hearing screenings. We offer hearing consultations, audiologic testing, the latest technology in hearing aids, hearing aid repairs, wax removal, tinnitus or ringing in the ears treatment and advice on hearing health programs available. Dr. Robin Andrews is an expert on correcting hearing problems. Physicians trust Dr. Andrews and for over 30 years have been referring patients to assist in patient diagnosis and management. He has been in private practice since 1984 and has helped many Georgians with their hearing health. Dr. Andrews specializes in the treatment of hearing loss due to nerve damage and diagnostics for balance and dizziness. He has worked with Neurologists, Primary Care Physicians, Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons, Veterans Administration and many industries. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic condition presented to the primary care physician. The first is heart disease and the second is low back pain. How do you know if you have hearing loss or diminished hearing? Do You • Hear but don’t understand what

people say? • Ask people to repeat what they say? • Get complaints that your TV is too loud? • Have difficulty understanding women and children? • Ringing or noise in your ears? • Miss common sounds like telephones and doorbells ringing? Hearing loss can occur if you have a family history of hearing loss, noise exposure, diabetes or heart disease. Join us in our excitement to be here in Johns Creek by taking that next step to help yourself or someone you know or love. Call 770-676-7208 or stop in at 11180 State Bridge Road, Suite 207, to set up an appointment to get the expert hearing care you need and deserve. Dr. Robin Andrews Audiologist, Board Certified

SPORTS

Pisgah forming Patriot travel basketball teams JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Tryouts for Patriot Community Sports travel basketball teams will be conducted Sunday, Feb. 16. Come to the gym at Mount Pisgah Christian School’s East Campus, at 9875 Nesbit Ferry Road, Johns Creek. Travel basketball teams are for players in third through eighth grades who desire a more competitive level of play – this is not a recreational league. Teams will practice two evenings per week at Mount Pisgah’s Drummond Center and participate in metro Atlanta-area tournaments between March and May. Tryouts for third- through fifth-graders will be from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and students in sixth through

Step up the pace. Online student

Lindsay Little

eighth grades will tryout from 3:30 to 5 p.m. There is a $15 tryout fee, cash only. For information, please contact the PCS office at 678-336-3140 or email mrichey@mountpisgahschool.org.

Centennial Jr. Knights football registration to be held Feb. 23 ROSWELL, Ga. – Registration for the 2014 Centennial Jr. Knights football season will be held Feb. 23 at the Centennial High School auditorium from 3 to 5 p.m. The Jr. Knights are the feeder team for Centennial High School and will field football teams for players in the fourth through eighth grades. The fourth- and fifth-grade teams are open

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 27

to all regardless of where the player resides, while the sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade teams are for players residing in the Centennial High School district. Additional information is available at centennialjuniorknights.com or by email at footballjrknights@gmail.com. —Jonathan Copsey

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS AND FURNITURE

enrolled in an accounting class while studying abroad.

Be Fearless. Are you juggling work and family and just need one class to graduate? Maybe you want to start college by taking just an art or history class? In any case, GPC offers eight-week spring courses on campus and online to ﬁt your busy schedule. Second-half registration is now open for classes starting March 19. Registration must be completed by February 21.

gpc.edu/secondhalf

“I’d Like to Pay You $470 Cash Trade-In for Your Old EnergyWasting Furnace” Plus, you save a bundle on record-setting energy prices! Last winter’s energy price increase was a shock. Experts predict that this year will be no better. It may be much worse…

50% OFF all upholstery floor samples.

$100 off

first order of $1000 or more

25% off accessories

21 years experience in creative unique design solutions for your individual style

Custom Window Treatments | Custom Bed Coverings | Unique Decorative Accessories Classic Antiques | Eclectic Home Furniture (Name Brands) | Distinctive Area Rugs

Paul Martin Interiors

Visit My Website at www.PaulMartinInteriors.com

That’s when it hit me: “Why not offer my customers a way to beat the energy increase, plus pay them for their old trade-ins to help train our techs?” I also checked into your real savings potential – U.S. Department of Energy Figures: A typical 10-year-old furnace* and air conditioner would cost you $400 more in energy this year than our new high efficiency Lennox heating and cooling system.

That’s why I’m writing you now… You can beat the near-certain price increase, plus the energy increase, plus get a Cash Trade-In for your old system. I’m so convinced that this is the best thing going, I’d like to give you a completely free, no-obligation Energy Survey of your current system. It may not even need replacing. But you must call ClimateSmith, LLC soon to schedule your free Energy Survey since we have no way of knowing how long supplies will last.

Right now, you can get a super-efficient heating and cooling system before the winter price increase.

Brannon Crossing Shopping Center

405 Peachtree Parkway Suite 135 • Cumming, GA 30041 678-947-4899 | Fax: 678-947-4646

*Figures are fairly based on a 65% AFUE furnace with typical heat loss and energy costs in our area. Financing with approved credit. Not valid with prior purchases.

770-475-9555 www.climatesmith.com

28 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SPORTS

Johns Creek’s Lurie to play soccer at Auburn JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek High School senior Sydney Lurie will be attending Auburn University on a soccer scholarship. Lurie has played soccer 14 years, including four years of varsity play at Johns Creek High School. Lurie’s honors

Dr. Beatriz Segarra

770-754-1234 5075 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Suite 800 Johns Creek, GA

In front, senior Sydney Lurie signs her letter of intent as parents Suzanne and Glenn Lurie watch. In back are Principal Buck Greene, coach Gregg Blasingame, coach Theo Economos, coach Brian Moore and Assistant Athletic Director Steve Hall. CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, March 6, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, March 24, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. Z-14-02 Broadwell House Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 2.97 acres from R15 to R8A in order to develop 24 townhomes. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested as well as a stream buffer and building setback variance. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1270, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. b. Z-13-15/V-13-18 Stonewalk Mayfield Corners Consideration of a request to rezone 2.4 acres from R-15 to R-10MHD and O-P (Historic District) in order to permit “for-sale” single family attached and detached homes as well as office. The property is located at the southeast corner of Mayfield Road and Canton Street and legally described as being located in Land Lots 1197, 1252 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. c. Z-14-05/CLUP-14-03/V-14-06 Winthrope Park Townhomes Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 6 acres from C-2 to R8A in order to develop 47 townhomes. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested as well as a reduction in the required undisturbed buffer adjacent to the commercial property northeast of the site. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1124, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. d. Z-14-04/CLUP-14-02/V-14-02 Marietta Street Townhomes Rezone from CUP & R-10M TO R-8A in order to develop townhomes. A variance to the required City creek buffers and setbacks is also requested as well as well as a change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan from “High Density Residential” to permit “Medium Density Residential”. The property is located in Land Lot 1270 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. e. PH-14-02 Unified Development Code – Special Event Facilities Consideration of an amendment to the Unified Development Code in order to permit special event facilities (amphitheaters) to hold events up to 30 days without obtaining City Council approval. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

WET/DAMP BASEMENT? or CRACKED

FOUNDATION? 250 OFF

Full Bsmt Solution over 100’ $150 OFF less than 100’

DISCOUNT ONLY BY MENTIONING THIS AD. Expires 10 days after publication. Cannot combine offer.

• WATERPROOFING AND MOLD REPAIR • CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION • FOUNDATION/WALLS Bowing or Cracked Solutions. Guaranteed.

Pls Call for Quote

678-250-4470

and awards include Academic Athletic Award, Newcomer of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, team MVP, AllRegion, team captain, Georgia Olympic Development Program Region III team and ODP International Tour U.S. Soccer U-18.

SPORTS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 29 Proud Sponsor Of:

STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Chattahoochee High School

Jordan Bush

Adabi to play soccer at Emmanuel JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek High School senior Jonathan Adabi will be attending Emmanuel College on a soccer scholarship. Adabi has played soccer for eight years, three of them at Johns Creek HS. In the front row, Adabi

signs his letter of intent as mother Melanie and brother Joseph watch. In back are Assistant Principal Carlton Harris, soccer coach Kelly Bowler, Assistant Principal Patrick Martin and Athletic Director Mike Cloy.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK COUNCIL CHAMBER 12000 FINDLEY ROAD, SUITE 300 JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097 The following Land Use Petition proposals located within the City of Johns Creek are scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

RZ-14-004 Southeastern Retail Development, LLC 3200 Block of Old Alabama Road 9800 Block of Brumbelow Road AG – 1 (Agricultural District) O – I (Office Institutional District) Develop 2,400 square-foot bank RZ-14-005 Brand Properties, LLC 9300 Block of Medlock Bridge Road 5700 Block of Old Alabama Road AG – 1 (Agricultural District) MIX (Mixed Use District) 42,200 SF office/service/commercial/retail, 263 multi-family units, and 24 fee-simple townhomes RZ-14-006 Rogers Family Partnership Michael M. Rogers 7400 – 7500 Block of Bell Road 10700 – 11000 Block of Rogers Bridge Road AG – 1 (Agricultural District) CUP (Community Unit Plan District) Single-family Subdivision RZ-14-007 Rogers Family Partnership Michael M. Rogers 7400 – 7500 Block of Bell Road 10700 – 11000 Block of Rogers Bridge Road AG – 1 (Agricultural District) CUP (Community Unit Plan District) Single-family Subdivision

Name: Jordan Bush Age: 17 GPA: 3.5 Athletic Team: Varsity Basketball Cheerleading Position: Base School and/or community activities: Varsity Football Trainer, Varisty Soccer Trainer, Host Club Member, JCL Club Member, Art for the Heart Club Member Athletic Awards: Top Cat Award and Spirit of the Cougar Award Academic Awards: Honor Roll Future Plans: Go to college and become a veterinarian

Palmer Dodge 'Student Athletes of the Week' are selected by the Athletic Departments of Alpharetta, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Milton, and Roswell High School. If your school is not represented, the deadline was not met.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Along with previously advertised items, the following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the City Council on Monday, February 24, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. PH-13-15 Capital Improvements Element Consideration of a resolution adopting the capital improvements element of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR REQUEST FOR QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS CITY OF ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA FOR CITY MEDICAL DIRECTOR RFQ # 14-1004 The City of Alpharetta is accepting Statements of Qualifications from practicing, board-certified emergency medicine physicians to provide certain emergency medical advisory services in the capacity of City Medical Director. Such services include, but are not limited to, development and approval of emergency medical dispatch standards, emergency medical technician and paramedic training, patient care protocols, pharmaceutical approvals, instruction in Advanced Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and other duties as requested. The RFQC will be available online Thursday, February 6, 2014, under the tab “Bids Online” on our website, www.alpharetta.ga.us. Statements for Qualified Contractors will be due on Thursday, February 27, 2014 at 10:00 AM, at the City of Alpharetta Finance Department, 2970 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009. For information, please contact Abby Shipp at the City of Alpharetta Finance Department at 678-297-6052 or via email at purchasing@alpharetta.ga.us.

30 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Avossa: Continued from Page 6 but which still impact Fulton Schools.” He said the recent emergency was centered more on

the widespread traffic gridlock, and less on the weather, which significantly impaired the system’s ability to get kids home. “I’m asked all the time why Fulton [schools] were so impacted, and it’s really because every main artery in Atlanta goes through Fulton,” said

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com | Recycled paper Avossa. “And that is something we have to discuss regionally.” The task force will meet on Feb. 18 and March 4 in a public forum in Atlanta, with the goal of delivering preparedness information to Deal within 60 days of the meetings. While the public will not address the

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PUBLIC NOTICE PURPOSE An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City on January 23, 2014 for Consumption of Wine and Malt Beverages.

OWNER/OFFICERS JS & JG Enterprises, LLC d/b/a UTOPIA BAR 10305 Medlock Bridge Rd Ste C-3 Johns Creek, GA 30097

All sales will be final to the highest bidder and sold as is, where is, with no warranty expressed or implied. The City of Alpharetta and GovDeals reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and the right to waive formalities. Once the items are sold, the coordination of and actual removal of the items must be completed by the selected party.

On Thursday, February 13, 2014 at the City of Johns Creek, City Hall, 12000 Findley Road, Council Chambers, Johns Creek, GA 30097, the City of Johns Creek will hold a Public Meeting concerning SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project), Project CSHPP-0007-00(310); P.I. No. 0007310 in the northern part of Fulton County. SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) proposes to reduce traffic congestion by providing turn lane improvements along an approximately 1 mile section of roadway. A 5-foot sidewalk will be installed along the south side with an 8 to 10-foot sidewalk on the north side of SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road. The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with an opportunity to view the proposed project, ask questions and comment on the project. The meeting will be conducted between the hours of 4:00p.m. and 7:00p.m. The meeting will be informal and the public is invited to attend anytime during these hours. There will be no formal presentation. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) information: The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by calling (Cindy Jenkins, Transportation Engineer – 678-512-3269). Comments concerning this project will be accepted until Thursday, February 27,

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

ONLINE AUCTION BY CITY OF ALPHARETTA Beginning at 8:00 AM, Monday, March 3, 2014, and continuing until all items are sold; the City of Alpharetta in conjunction with GovDeals will conduct an online auction to sell surplus material, equipment, and vehicles. To view the surplus items or to place a bid, please visit www.govdeals.com.

City of Johns Creek Public Meeting for SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) Project CSHPP-0007-00(310), P.I. No. 0007310

Please submit your comments to:

dents by emailing them weather condition updates, so that they have the most up-to-date information when determining whether to close schools.” State officials maintain they cannot make decisions for school systems to close, however that has been done in the recent past. In September 2005, Gov. Sonny Perdue requested all public schools to close for two days, Sept. 26-27, in order to conserve fuel ahead of a hurricane. While the order was not mandatory, most systems complied.

BUSINESS NAME JS & JG Enterprises, LLC d/b/a UTOPIA BAR 10305 Medlock Bridge Rd Ste C-3 Johns Creek, GA 30097

Jamal Sahri, Owner

2014.

task force directly during the meeting, they are invited to submit questions and comments to swptf@georgia.gov for the panel to review. Communication with state school systems was identified as a priority for the governor, especially during potential weather threats. “Effective immediately, a storm warning will trigger a message to cellphones in targeted areas, as in the Amber Alert system, and advise against road travel,” said Deal. “We will go one step further with school superinten-

For further information, visit www.govdeals.com or contact Jonathan Bulau with the City of Alpharetta, Finance Department at (678) 297-6095 or jbulau@alpharetta.ga.us.

Notice of Public Internet Auction Johns Creek Police Department The following is a list of property located at the Johns Creek Police Dept. If you believe that you are the owner of this property, please call 678-474-1572 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Proof of ownership and a valid ID will be required to claim any property. A public internet auction of the following items will begin the week of March 17th. The auction’s website is www.propertyroom.com. Items:

Pocket Knives Apple iPad in pink colored case Plastic Pouch Key to pressure washer Wallets Ford car key & set of keys BB Gun metro pcs Huawei cellphone Samsung Cellphone mens tan colored shoes Money Pouch credit card Kate Spade brand purse Fantasy Master brand knife Backpacks iPhone in red case Purse 18 pieces of jewelry: (Skagen Denmark watch, 3 silver colored bangles, 1 pair of gold heart shaped earrings, 1 silver bangle, 1 pearl & silver bracelet, 1 silver watch with stones, 2 silver studded rings, 1 gold bracelet & misc. pieces)

OPINION

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 31

NFCC easing path to citizenship with classes We who are born in the United States take our citizenship for granted most of the time. I spent two years in Germany courtesy of Uncle Sam and I had a chance to see firsthand just how much we take our freedoms for granted. But when you see the barbed wire and the guard towers in what was then East Germany – known then as the Deutsche Demokratische Republik (German Democratic Republic), the Germans on our side of the barbed wire were generally grateful to have us there. We call America the Land of Opportunity, but we seldom act like it. When we are not complaining about what the government doesn’t do for us, we seem to harp just as loud when we have to pay for what it does do for us. But it starts to sink in when you talk to people who want to become Americans. I don’t know anyone who would actually want to move away and become a citizen of another country. Oh, I think about what it would be like to open a bar on the beach at Rota, Spain, where I went once for the wedding of my brotherin-law. They really have a truly laidback lifestyle, and in Rota there are so many sailors, not knowing the lingo wouldn’t be such a problem – I like to think. But I couldn’t really give up pizza, TV without subtitles, my beloved Dawgs or my grandchildren just a few miles down the road. There is so much I love about living here that I don’t even realize it most of the time. So imagine what it takes for those who up-stakes and move to a completely new environment. Why do they do it? Well most do it because they buy into the idea that this is the Land of Opportunity – usually because they come from places that have no opportunities. And I don’t mean just the people who risk life and limb to come here to pick tomatoes for $5 an hour or to work in a chicken rendering plant. We know about those. But there are plenty of welleducated and smart people who come here for the opportunity to succeed based on merit and hard work. You know they said the early pioneers who trekked west were only the strong. They said the cowards never started and the weak never made it. It

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

is not so different today. You have to be strong and brave to come to a new land with a new language, strange customs and laws. Oh, I know we have such a porous border, and we are frustrated by so many who come here illegally. But I am here to talk about those who are here with papers. They want more than just the opportunities they find here. They want to belong. That is what a co-worker where my wife used to work wanted. Lyuba came from the former Soviet Union with her husband to escape religious persecution. She was a musician there, but here she had to take what work she could find. That didn’t matter. The happiest I ever saw her (and she was always happy) was the day she got her citizenship. It was her true birthday, she said. I happened to be at North Fulton Community Charities and found out they are in the birthday business also. That is, they offer citizenship classes to North Fulton residents. NFCC Program Director Eden Purdy wears that hat too. They offer the six-week classes two times a year to documented residents in addition to GED classes and English classes. Other programs include financial literacy – teaching how to save and the mechanics of saving, life skills in America and more. NFCC does many things to help people in need. But this is one job the staff is happy to perform. “We teach how to move in society and how to move up,” Purdy said. The oldest NFCC citizengraduate was 47, and the youngest 18. Irene Gruenhut is the teacher of the latest crop of candidates. She introduced me to Maria Geurrero who has lived here 14 years. Five years ago, she obtained her residency card. Now she has decided she wants to stay in America. “I don’t want to just be a resident. I want to be a citi-

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

North Fulton Community Charities’ most recent citizenship classmates begin their first day of study. zen,” she said. Marlena Olevira is from Brazil. She lives with her daughter, and after 12 years has decided to apply for citizenship as well. In the classroom, there are pins on a world map. The first day each class member is invited to put a pin on their country of origin. Many countries and three continents are represented. It is not an easy thing to do, said Gruenhut. Applicants must pass tests in English literacy – reading and writing, American history, civics and geography. Then they must pass an interview. I’ve seen some of the questions. It is well native-born citizens do not have to take the test. Based on Leno’s man-inthe-street polls, a fair number would be hard put to vote in the next election. So they will come twice week for the 12 classes, an average of 10 to 12 students. At the end of the six weeks, they will be ready to be tested. Most will come out newly minted citizens of the United States. I know some will grouse that these new citizens in some way diminish the rest of us. They will be a drain on our resources. I don’t believe that. I believe each new citizen contributes to the fabric of what gives the United States its greatness. After all, isn’t this the land of the free and the home of the brave?

WET or DAMP

BASEMENT? CRACKED FOUNDATION?

Once A Month Only! Antiques • Jewelry • Home Decor Florals • Primitives • Coins Sports Memorabilia • Framing Glassware • Collectibles Art • Shabby Chic

ANTIQUES THIS WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 14, 15, 16

3 Exciting days with merchandise and dealers from all over.

Don’t Miss It! Something for Everyone and Every Room! $3.00 Admission Good All Weekend/Children Free

1321 Atlanta Highway 770-889-3400 www.lakewoodantiques.com

250 OFF

Full Basement Perimeter Solution (over 100 feet) 678-250-4470

With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

150 OFF

Partial Perimeter Solution (under 100 feet)

With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

SPORTS

32 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

Varsity soccer player Hope Kemp-Hanson, center, was named recipient of the first soccer scholarship award from the State Bridge McDonald’s. From left are McDonald’s owners Tim Phalen and Paula Quilter, Mark Penstone, Kemp-Hanson and soccer coaches Vince Strine, Les Meenan, Gina Mumma and Brittany Boyajan.

Soccer star awarded honor Kemp-Hanson starts charity groups By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – After years of giving to others, one Chattahoochee High School student was on the receiving end Feb. 4. Hope Kemp-Hanson, 15, has done more in her school years than many people do in a lifetime. She has started numerous student charity groups, organizing to help the needy. One such group put on a fashion show for the Special Olympics, while another collected 1,400 pairs of shoes and another sent out Easter baskets. “It feels so good to be giving

back to the community. I wanted to make a bigger impact,” Kemp-Hanson said. “We do a ton for different charities.” She is also a player on the varsity soccer team for the high school. At the annual soccer banquet the school holds for all soccer teams, a new scholarship and grant were announced. The scholarship will be annually awarded to one star player in the soccer program. The grant will be an annual donation to the school’s soccer program. Kemp-Hanson was the first recipient of the scholarship, which is offered by the State Bridge McDonald’s. “I was just blown away by

what she has accomplished,” said Tim Phalen, co-owner of the McDonald’s. “She does all these things for everybody else. She truly has a heart of gold.” Phalen and the State Bridge McDonald’s have pledged $1,000 to the Chattahoochee soccer program each year as well as $500 to one star student each year as a scholarship to buy equipment and uniforms. The award is called “Hope for the Future.” “I was taken away,” KempHanson said when she received the ward. “I’m blessed to get this and influence generations beyond me. I’ve always be asked ‘what are you leaving behind when you leave school?’ I’ve always wanted to make a big impact.”

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 13, 2014 | 33

Commissioner Tom Lowe announces retirement SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe has announced his retirement from Fulton County Board of Commissioners. He intends to complete his current term, which ends this year. Lowe was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1974. He is now in his 40th year of service and is among the longest-serving county commissioners in Georgia. Lowe announced his retirement during the Feb. 5 meeting of the Board of Commiss-

NORTHSIDE CHAPEL

ioners.“I’m in my 40th year of service and have not missed any regular meetings,” he said. “That is 470 meetings so far. I’ve enLOWE joyed the people here, and enjoyed standing with them and by them. “I’d like to thank my wife, former state House member Bettye Lowe, who was prob-

ably the first Republican to win countywide in Fulton County,” Lowe said. “I’d also like to thank the rest of my family for their support. “I think the greatest thing in the world is to know when

DEATH NOTICES Eugene P. Abernathy, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away January 28, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

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

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

North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory

Kayrl Bass, 68, of Marietta, passed away January 28, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Edward Bauman, 71, of Roswell, passed away January 31, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. James Richard Blackley, 67, of Cumming, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Margaret Blaikie, 75, of Roswell, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Dan Brumbalow, 77, of Cumming, passed away February 4, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

your time is up. I’ve got to spend more time with my family and it’s time for me to go,” he said. “I offer my best wishes to each and every one of you, and my staff. Thanks so much for

40 good years.” Following his announcement, Lowe’s colleagues on the Board of Commissioners gave him a standing ovation and thanked him for his service to Fulton County citizens.

Judith Gallagher, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Mary Jane Lind, 84, of Alpharetta, passed away February 4, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Marc Goode, 48, of Marietta, passed away January 28, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Jeffrey McNeese, 22, of Roswell, passed away January 25, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Audrey Hall, 91, of Roswell, passed away January 26, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Erin Marie Horst, 17, of Roswell, passed away January 29, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Lt. Col. Frank W. Irvin, Jr., USAF Ret., 95, of Roswell, passed away January 29, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Patricia Cannizaro, 91, of Alpharetta, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Michael Metreyeon, 52, of Woodstock, passed away January 28, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Charles Richard Metz, 88, of Sandy Springs, passed away January 29, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. George A. Moilanen, Jr., 55, of Snellville, passed away January 28, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Martha Parrish, 80, of Atlanta, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Patricia Pressley, 81, of Milton, passed away January 29, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

James Keeter, 76, of Alpharetta, passed away January 20, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Linda Chumley, 68, of Cumming, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Joseph J. Lenahan, 86, of Roswell, passed away February 1, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Louise Conrad, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Bobbie Ann Corn, 77, of Forsyth County, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Laurel Davies, 51, of Cumming, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.

Share your opinions NorthFulton.com

Earl B. Fry, 77, of Cumming, passed away January 30, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

John Quirk, 71, of Cumming, passed away February 1, 2014. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. William Rickter, Jr., 64, of Charlotte, passed away January 26, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Mary J. Liebherr, 71, of Roswell, passed away February 1, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors. John Allen Roper, 92, of Cumming, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

GARAGE SALES

Johns Creek Youth Orchestra

HELP WANTED

for North Fulton/ Johns Creek CPA firm. QuickBooks exp. incl online banking/credit card i m p o r t s , reconciliation & data review. Exp with payroll compliance. R e s u m e s : cpa6290@gmail.com

Dacula flatbed! Great Pay, Benefits! CDL-A, 1yr Exp. Req. Estenson Logistics. A p p l y : www.goelc.com 1-866-336-9642

B e n c h m a r k Technology Group, a leading provider of branch technology for banks, is seeking full/part time applicants to join our lead generation team. Make outbound calls to banks to identify b u s i n e s s opportunities. Not a selling position. Must sound professional & enjoy talking on the phone. Flexible hours available. No nights/weekends. Email resume to careers@benchmark technologygroup.co m or fax to 678-3193959

60 plus wpm. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications; Quick Books &/or P e a c h t r e e accounting. Various shifts. $12 hr. AA Professional Bail B o n d s aapbb.hr@gmail.co m

with Alpharetta sales firm handling prominent national consumer brands. Must be proficient in Mac OS & Microsoft Office; detail oriented; superior writing skills; flexibility to work overtime as needed to meet tight deadlines. College degree reqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d. Recent grads encouraged to apply. Resume to dlswofford@gmail.co m

Industrial Repair Service, a fast growing 24 year old company, is seeking a motivated individual to fill an entry level inside sales position. The ideal candidate is self-disciplined, comfortable cold calling and looking for a long-term career. Recent college graduates encouraged to apply, experience in inside sales a plus. Base salary + commissions + bonuses pay structure with benefits package. Background check and drug screening required for all candidates. Qualified individuals should send resume to jobs@boardrepairs.n et

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; position involving businessto-business sales, w h o l e s a l e distribution sales s e r v i c i n g professional building supply accounts. The territory involves daily travel in the Atlanta/North Georgia areas. Commission sales, excellent benefits, basic business expenses provided. Promptly submit an online application to: www.ecmdjobs.com

Principal conductor Yenchin Lee - Cornish College of Art and Julliard School trained, Music Director of Taiwan Youth Symphony, Conductor for Bainbridge Symphony in Washington State, Moravian Philharmonic in Czech Republic and Sliven Philharmonic in Bulgaria. Audition for Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello & Bass. Any of 2 scales two octaves, 2 arpeggios two octaves & 1 piece of 2-3 minutes. February 15th, 2014, 4-5 pm. 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097. Music Do Re Mi School, Class Building, Recital Hall (770) 729-9882. Enjoy performing orchestral music - repertoires include classical, festival and movie music. Making musician friends, improve instrumental and sight reading skill, serving community in musical pleasures, gaining public performing experiences, working with professional conductor and soloist.

RN needed for nonmedical home care agency to conduct assessments. Must be current Georgia registered, excellent communication skills & enjoys working with seniors. Home care experience preferred, but not required. Please send resume to LMachado@visitinga ngels.com

www.maidrightnorthfulton.com

ANIMALS

Completely vetted. Catnip Cottage 770740-7544

REAL ESTATE

MISCELLANEOUS

Permanent. Expd in P.I. & W.C. Prepare demands, file complaints, respond to discovery, Word Perfect. M-F, 1-5. Resume: 770-6506393

BUSINESS

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Affordable; will beat any advertised price. Excellent references!

Great service! Licensed, insured

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

Advantage Painting 770-255-8575 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs No Up Front Money Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured

36 | February 13, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com | Recycled paper

PRESIDENT’S DAY 3 DAYS ONLY Sale SAT., FEB. 15TH MON., FEB 17TH

Design Services

Home Fashion Interiors

is honored to have provided the Custom Design for the Main Floor of House #33 for the annual Roswell Women’s Club Homes of Distinction Tour. We Cordially invite you to come experience the beautiful vision of our Interior Designers February 6th – 23rd. Info can be found at RoswellWomensClub.org

Custom Furnishings for the Whole Home Draperies, Blinds and Window Treatments Custom Bedding Ensembles • Accent Furniture Accessories • Handmade Rugs

Complimentary Design Services provided in Home or in Store February 6 - 23, 2014

793 North Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

50% OFF

(Just South of Windward Pkwy. on Hwy. 9)

MON - SAT: 10am - 6:30pm SUN: 12pm - 5pm

770-664-9544

homefashioninteriors.net

ENTIRE PURCHASE

APP

In-stock items only. Cannot be combined. Expires 2/17/14.