Milton Herald - February 16, 2017

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

Milton wins region title Eagles beat previously unbeaten Lambert in championship game ►►PAGE 26

Milton Mayor’s Run to benefit cancer patients Event has raised nearly $300,000 ►►PAGE 10

Alpharetta’s Technology Commission New CEO, and Job One is grow innovative tech startups ►►PAGE 16

Milton Business Alliance under new leadership

MBA looks to partner with city ►►PAGE 18

Grim injury not enough to stop Milton’s Belle Briede

CREDIT JJ WEAVER

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

Milton’s Belle Briede scores for Team USA against Northern Ireland in a national match. A little over a year ago, she was sidelined after shattering her MCL and tearing her ACL. See story page 28.

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2 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

PUBLIC SAFETY

Teenager found dead in Roswell 770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS:

Police believe he knew his killer

TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL:

ROSWELL, Ga. — Police have released the identity of a teenager found dead Tuesday, Feb. 7 on Saratoga Drive.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. that day, police were called to the apartment complex at Saratoga Drive when someone reported hearing gunshots. Police found the body of 17-year-old Kobe Wil-

News: news@appenmediagroup.com Press Releases: NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar

POLICE BLOTTER

Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 118 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 139 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102

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The Herald Newspapers are published by Appen Media Group, 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta Ga. 30009.

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.

NFL ticket scam costs man $300 JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man attempting to purchase NFL tickets was instead swindled out of $300, Jan. 2. He contacted police Feb. 2 after not receiving any tickets or responses from the seller.

The man found the tickets through a Craigslist post and contacted the seller to make the purchase. The seller told him that he had to transfer the agreed upon $300 through Western Union.

During the transaction, the seller sent the man photos of the tickets as proof.

The seller said that he lives in Omaha, Neb., and that the money would have to be transferred there.

After transferring the money, however, the man never received the tickets, and he had trouble contacting the seller again.

The phone number provided by the seller was traced to Boulder, Colo.

The man contacted police in Omaha about the scam, and they required him

liams when they arrived. He was lying on the ground behind building 15.

According to police, Williams was shot to death and had “an apparent gunshot wound.”

Williams had been enrolled in Centennial High School, but was not an active student. He had been living in an apartment in that neighborhood.

Williams was set to resume his education at CHS, according to the GoFundMe set up for his surviving family.

Roswell Public Information Officer

Lisa Holland said police are investigating several people who may be linked to Williams’ death.

“They don’t believe that it’s a random attack,” Holland said. “They believe that Mr. Williams knew his killer.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Williams’ family at gofundme.com/ kobewilliams.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477.

—Julia Grochowski

to report the fraud to Johns Creek police as well to aid in the investigation.

4 counts of fraud add up to $4K lost MILTON, Ga. — A man reported Feb. 8 that someone had deposited four fraudulent checks from his Bank of America bank account at Wells Fargo.

One of the checks was deposited Feb. 2 for $1,000. The other three were deposited on Feb. 17, each for $1,000 as well. Bank of America did not disclose the location of where the checks were used.

The man had his account frozen, and Bank of America refunded him all of the money.

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 ►► Sean P. Bilodeau, 26, of Stoney

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested a man Feb. 2 for nine counts of financial transaction card forgery and for obstruction of officers when he attempted to flee.

Police responded that afternoon to the Apple Store on North Point Parkway, where a man was allegedly running from loss prevention. Police caught

Point Road, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 28 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, following too close and failure to yield to emergency vehicles. ►► Carlon Maurice Ball, 43, of Village Green Way, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 28 on Academy Street in Alpharetta for DUI and improper stopping. ►► Jose C. Cruz-Valasquez, 24, of Liberty Church Road, Dawsonville, was arrested Jan. 25 on Westside Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Sanjay Arora, 33, of Delo Lane, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 25 on State Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Maya Jasarevic, 32, of Hammond Drive, Atlanta, was arrested Jan. 25 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for DUI, child endangerment, open container, failure to maintain lane and

See BLOTTER, Page 36

See ARRESTS, Page 36

N.Y. man caught with 9 fake credit cards

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 3

Presbyopia and Treatment Options

By Dr. Samir Vira

Presbyopia is the progressive loss of accommodation whereby an individual loses the ability to see objects up close. This natural aging phenomenon typically starts in the mid 40s and results in symptoms, such as difficulty with reading small print, eyestrain, or even headaches. Presbyopia occurs due to hardening of the natural lens – this results in inflexibility of the lens to change its focus from a distance target to a near target.

Wake Up and See The Coffee!

Samir Vira, M.D.

Most individuals can easily deal with the symptoms of presbyopia by simply wearing reading glasses, bifocal glasses, or progressive glasses. As you get older, the strength of your reading glasses will increase and these can be obtained at any drug or retail store. Similarly, the bottom portion of your prescription bifocal or progressive lenses will need to be updated with increasing power to meet your near vision needs.

Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

For contact lens wearers, multifocal contact lenses is a good option to provide you with vision at both distance and near targets. Alternatively, the concept of monovision can be employed to assist you with presbyopia.

With monovision, contact lenses are dispensed with one dominant eye being set for distance vision and the other non-dominant eye being set for near vision. Many individuals will adapt very well to this option with proper time and counseling.

For anyone seeking a more long-term solution, surgical options are available. Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, with monovision can be used in the same fashion as it is done for contact lenses. A contact lens trial for monovision is recommended to ensure adaptation and tolerance before LASIK or the refractive procedure is performed.

Refractive lens exchange is another surgical option for presbyopic patients.

With this procedure, each eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with a lens implant. A multifocal lens implant, similar to a similar multifocal contact lens, is placed inside your eye and tailored according to your visual demands.

More recently, less invasive corneal inlays have been developed for presbyopia. Approved by the FDA in 2015, the Kamra inlay is an implant placed under a corneal flap in the non-dominant eye. A corneal pocket is created by the same femtosecond laser used for LASIK. Unlike LASIK, no tissue is removed or ablated. The Kamra inlay uses a small aperture or opening to create the pinhole concept and allow patients to have increased depth of focus. This enables you to not only see objects at distance but also at intermediate and near.

In June 2016, FDA approved the Raindrop corneal inlay for presbyopia. This inlay is also an implant placed under a corneal femtosecond laser flap in the non-dominant eye. Made of the same hydrogel material as a contact lens, the Raindrop inlay reshapes the central cornea to provide increased power for near vision. Both the Kamra and Raindrop corneal inlays can be reversibly removed.

These corneal inlays are recent exciting developments for patients with presbyopia. Many other technologies continue to be investigated in this evolving field of ophthalmology.

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Latest proposal has two sites for parking

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The City Council will settle a six-month debate Monday when it selects between three different plans to build a parking deck on the west side of Main Street in downtown Alpharetta.

About 70 people turned out Monday night to see the city’s latest multi-million-dollar proposal, a plan calling for two decks, each smaller than earlier versions that occupied single sites.

The new proposal, the city’s third, is designed to accommodate both sides on an issue that has divided residents against the business community.

The City Council approved a site between Roswell Street and Old Roswell Street back in August. But city leaders backed out of that decision when about 50 residents appeared at the next council meeting to protest, arguing the deck would obliterate an area pedestrians now use to attend downtown festivals.

A month later, the city unveiled a second option siting the deck farther northwest on Milton Avenue near Rest Haven Cemetery. While many residents applauded, the downtown business community objected, saying proximity to parking is the life blood of retail.

The added walking distance, they said, would be enough to choke off retail.

The third proposal presented at the workshop Monday would give each side a little of what they want. And, because the first two proposals were not on display at Monday’s open house, city leaders appear squarely behind door number three.

“I think it was well received,” said Mayor David Belle Isle. “There is a need to try to get as much parking in different areas of the city, especially in areas on the other side of Main Street. I do think this most recent plan preserves the event space and opportunities behind Smokejack because people are affectionate to it, and we can’t just disregard that.”

The latest plan carries a total price tag of $8 million, more than 25 percent higher than estimates given for the two earlier proposals. It also delivers more than 50 additional parking spaces and provides for future expansion of either or both decks.

Residents on hand Monday peppered the mayor and Bob Williams, an engineer with Pond consulting, with questions about the new proposal.

Some questioned the total return of parking spaces – particularly at the Roswell Street site – for the money.

They pointed out the site already has 88 spaces, and spending millions to add another 80, does not sound reasonable.

But the mayor argued the Roswell Street site will offer more than the simple number of stalls because parking will be limited to three hours. This, he

said, will allow for greater usage and provide downtown businesses with a fluid customer base.

Belle Isle also said the time limits at the metered deck could be relaxed during major downtown festivals.

On the other hand, he said, the Milton Avenue deck will impose no time limits on parking.

Williams added that plans call for 19 parking spaces on the street along Milton Avenue in front of the deck.

Whatever the decision Monday, Alpharetta is on the verge of a major construction onslaught in its downtown area.

Work is set to begin by the middle of March on the next phase of City Center which will close down much of the street parking near the City Hall complex for close to a year.

Park Plaza, which runs in front of the library and City Hall, will remain open and provide the only access to the existing parking deck on the east side of Main.

Though most residents seemed satisfied with the new plan, one longtime businessman and downtown property owner was not so impressed. Jim Parsons said the city needs to recognize the need for parking before major growth occurs. While the number of retail and restaurants in downtown has tripled over the past six years, he said, the amount of parking has hardly moved.

“We’re squeezing retail really hard,” Parsons said. “It’s not enough.”

Comparing parking plans Alpharetta has proposed a number of plans to provide parking on the west side of Main Street. Late last year, it had narrowed the focus to two sites, labeled “A” and “D.” Figures for those two site proposals were presented at a public meeting last October.

Site A

Between

Roswell St. and Old Roswell

Site D* Milton Ave near Rest Haven Cemetery

Proposal 3 Both sites A/D

Total floors 3 3 2/3 Net parking stalls 272 301 168/187=355 Total cost $5.45 million $5.84 million $8 million Cost per stall $20,100 $19,400 $17,880/$26,773 *Calculations for Site D include a slight error in that the consultant, Kimley Horn, assumed ownership of a small strip of land the city did not in fact own. These figures are the latest provided by the city but are not corrected for that miscalculation.

CDC: keeps students with flu at home NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The CDC has reported that there has been an increase in cases of the flu in Georgia and is advising parents to keep students at home if they have the flu.

Symptoms include fever/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue.

Fulton County Schools’ policy states that if your student has a fever of 100.4 or higher, he or she cannot return to school until they are fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of medication.

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6 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

‘Positively Roswell’ wants softer tone in city politics Local business professionals say city should tone down rhetoric

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – There’s a new citizen group in Roswell that has a goal – and a lofty one – to lower the vitriol that seems to pervade Roswell politics. It is called Positively Roswell.

Businesswoman and co-founder Theo Keyserling said the group did not form to espouse any political positions or to back any particular candidates in the upcoming special election.

Instead, they are concerned that Roswell City Council meetings are becoming disturbingly divisive.

They say it is having a bad effect on the city’s collective psyche and discouraging citizens from getting involved in civic life.

“We just want to see a true dialogue in the city to discuss ideas based on merit without all the namecalling. We want to lower the temperature of local politics and see if that doesn’t get more people involved,” Keyserling said.

The group sort of “coalesced” at public meetings. It does not espouse a particular position for the city to adopt.

“We are kind of all over the spectrum. We don’t really know much about where the others stand on city issues,” said Jay Litton, another cofounder. “What

HATCHER HURD/HERALD

Members of the new civic group Positively Roswell will lobby for a more positive approach to solving city problems. Front row from left are Adam Braund, Doug Curling and Theo Keyserling. Rear row are Jay Litton, Joanna Benson-Spencer, Scott Long and Angela Medley.

we found in conversations was that all we want to do is take the anger down a notch and have rational discussions about what is best for the city.”

Several of the new Positively Roswell members met at a Canton Street office to explain what they want to

do. Along with Litton and Keyserling were business professionals Doug Curling, Angela Medley, Scott Long and Adam Braund.

“We’re not friends,” Keyserling said. “We come from different areas and perspectives. We just want to see Roswell take a calm approach in planning the future.”

Doug Curling said every public issue seems to turn quickly into a negative fight as much about personalities as the issues.

“So what can we do about it? We all have common interests. What we need to do is look at alternatives objectively,” Curling said.

The recent neighborhood meetings held in east Roswell the last two weeks are evidence that people are concerned about Roswell’s future and the need to have plans to move forward, they said.

“As we move forward, we want to find ways to come together to make progress instead of getting pigeonholed over small issues,” Curling said. “We should move forward as neighbors.”

They proposed the City Council take a hard look at all areas of the city, call in the experts to make recommendations about where the logjams are and suggest ways for the city to progress.

But Positively Roswell wants to be more than a counterbalance to “negativity.”

They want to push for a citywide strategy to deal with issues and then see it followed through.

“We want to raise the level of the language we use when we speak about the issues. Once we do that, we’ll never go back,” Keyserling said.

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8 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | blackboxdocs.com

BLACKBOX SPECIAL REPORT:

LexisNexis to pay $1.2M after pay discrimination investigation

185 female employees in Alpharetta affected

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta-based LexisNexis recently agreed to pay over $1.2 million in back pay and interest to 211 female employees after apparent pay discrimination.

The company provides computer-assisted legal and business research and risk management services.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, this will resolve allegations of “systematic pay discrimination against women at its facilities in Alpharetta and Boca Raton, Fla.” In fiscal years 2015 and 2016, the company had millions of dollars in federal contracts with the U.S. Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Transportation and Labor, and the Office of Personnel Management and the General Services Administration, according to the agency.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs conducted two separate investigations which found that as of December 2012, 185 female employees in Operational Leadership jobs were paid “substantially less” than their

Welcome to Blackbox This story is the result of a tip to our Blackbox team, which investigates stories and tips we receive from our readers in the community. If you were affected by the story and would like to talk to us, please call 770-4423278 and ask for Kathleen at extension 143.

If you have a tip for a story we should investigate next, please email it to blackbox@ appenmediagroup.com. Your tip is confidential and you will not be referenced in any resulting story without your expressed written approval.

Through this settlement, the affected class members will be compensated for their losses. We are pleased that the contractor worked cooperatively with us and has agreed to review and revise pay policies and procedures as necessary.”

THOMAS DOWD Acting OFCCP Director

male counterparts.

Additionally, 26 female employees in Operational Leadership jobs in Boca Raton were also paid less than their male equivalents.

The Department of Labor said they do not release the names of the victims.

The investigation was part of a routine compliance evaluation conducted by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs and was not generated by employee complaints, according to Department of Labor Media Contact Michael D’Aquino.

The department found a significant difference in pay in both locations even after taking into account legitimate factors that affect pay level, the agency said. Executive Order 11246 prohibits federal contractors from engaging in compensation discrimination on the basis of sex.

“It is unlawful for federal contractors to discriminate in pay on the basis of sex,” said Acting OFCCP Director Thomas Dowd. “Through this settlement, the affected class members will be compensated for their losses. We are pleased that the contractor worked cooperatively with us and has agreed to review and revise pay policies and procedures as necessary.”

While not admitting liability and denying all claims, LexisNexis has agreed

Alpharetta-based LexisNexis agreed to pay $1.2 million in back pay and intrest to 211 female employees after apparent pay discrimination. through a conciliation agreement to pay over $1.2 million in back pay and interest, and to monitor practices that affect compensation for women unfavorably, according to the agency stated.

Additionally, the company agreed to pay over $45,000 in salary adjustments to women employed at the Boca Raton facility and will conduct an annual compensation analysis during the term of the conciliation agreement, the agency said.

A company statement said LexisNexis is, “committed to ensuring all employees are treated fairly and afforded equal employment opportunities.”

“The OFCCP’s findings were not based on any individual complaints.

Rather they were derived from statistical analysis conducted by the agency,” the statement said. “The company disagrees with the OFCCP’s findings and does not believe it violated any federal

laws. After three and a half years of cooperation during the agency’s review, we ultimately agreed to the settlement to avoid committing additional time and resources for continued legal proceedings.”

LexisNexis must submit two progress reports covering the period the agreement is in effect. The company has to submit a summary of the actions undertaken as part of the review and or revision of policies. The company agreed to review and, as necessary, revise its compensation practices and establish monitoring and oversight mechanisms to ensure that all aspects of its compensation system provide equal opportunity to all employees.

Moreover, the company agreed to provide training to all its managers and supervisors who make compensation decisions and to all human resources personnel at its Alpharetta location.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 9

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Heartbreaking beginning of Jog for a Cause has happy ending Race has raised over $293,000 for children’s cancer research and patients

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Dr. Greg Cabrera of Milton’s North Point Pediatrics created the Jog for A Cause under unfortunate circumstances, but 13 years later, the event has created a positive outcome.

In 2004, a friend had two children diagnosed with leukemia within one month of each other, with Kiera Grace losing her battle at the age of 18 months. Cabrera wanted a way to help provide assistance and support to his close friend.

Cabrera came up with the idea of holding the Jog for a Cause 5k to benefit the family’s charitable organization.

Cabrera said he and his partners had no idea of how to establish, conduct and put on the event, but their pas-

sion to help those in need kept them striving.

“We didn’t know what we were doing,” Cabrera said, “but we had passion and an idea of what we wanted to do and that was to benefit children with cancer and their families.”

No matter the inexperience Cabrera and his partners faced that first year, the event raised $10,000, and 13 years later is still going strong. In 2014, the event was combined with the Milton Mayor’s Run, another event Cabrera co-founded.

The event has raised over $293,000 dollars for cancer charities, research groups, patients and their families.

“No one thought we would be here 14 years later,” Cabrera said. The support of the communities of Milton and Alpharetta, its volunteers which include the Milton Steelers, has helped the event to continue to raise funds that have benefitted families in North Fulton and Forsyth County, he said.

“We appreciate Milton and Alpharetta and everything they do for the event. We are forever thankful for all of our volunteers and everyone who shows up in support of the event and its cause,” Cabrera said.

“We are honored to once again partner and host Jog for a Cause, promoting health and wellness while raising money for a great cause,” said Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood. “Participation grows each year and it’s an incredible sight to see all the runners coming down Deerfield Parkway.”

This year’s race benefits Lyric Welch Fund, the Colton Lee Norrell Fund and the Keira Grace Foundation.

To register for event, held from 8-11 a.m. on Feb. 25, visit www.jogforacause5k.com.

Ambassador praises new aquaponics lab

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SCHOOLS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 11

Andrew Young visits River Eves Elementary

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — River Eves Elementary School’s newest addition, an aquaponics lab, is already creating waves.

The school announced its debut aquaponics lab Friday, Feb. 10 with a special visit by former Atlanta Mayor and U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young.

The lab, which combines raising aquatic animals and cultivating plants in water, aims to teach students practical applications of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a hands-on approach. The system uses fish waste to supply nutrients to plants, which in turn purifies the water for the fish. It is a full river system here that duplicates the Chattahoochee River.

“How do we make these real-world problems into something that kids can understand and learn from instead of just showing them in a book?” said Ryan Cox, the CEO of HATponics and creator of the lab. “If we can avoid using the book, and let them get hands on it, then maybe these kids will be the ones to come up with solutions for the world that they can sink their teeth into here.”

The setup contains multiple reser-

JULIA GROCHOWSKI/HERALD

Andrew Young holds one of the many fish living in the newly built River Eves aquaponics lab. voirs to simulate the different portions and ecosystems in the river. Water

levels in some of the reservoirs can be controlled to simulate how drought or overflow conditions can affect the animals and environment.

“They’ll be doing arboriculture, studying flora and fauna, and vertical farming,” Cox said. “We wanted to integrate all of those pieces into a single lifecycle, so instead of studying them individually, the students can get the full picture.”

It took HATponics, the company that designed and engineered the lab, two weeks to install. It has 9-10 gallons of recirculating water in motion at all times and houses 60-75 pounds of wildlife native to the Chattahoochee, including blue channel catfish, largemouth bass, fathead minnows, crawdads and red-eared sliders.

The water system is also used to cultivate plants that can be used as food. In the process, students will learn the basics of how to grow their own food and how to pass their skills on to others.

“Where we’re standing currently will be a makerspace for these students to build and make the system we have with aquaponics even better,” Cox said.

“They can impact not only the environment here, but food supplies. They’re

going to change the world.”

According to Young, aquaponics can provide a low-cost, low-water use and low-waste producing solution for world hunger.

“We know that the way we produce food now is not adequate. And we’re going to have to find a way to produce food more quickly and more inexpensively, especially with less water,” Young said. “This set up will provide not only fish, but greenery – high-quality vegetables and fruits.”

The River Eves lab is one of a kind in the nation, according to Cox. “This is really special to me, because the first bill I passed in Congress was to create a Chattahoochee River national park, never thinking that it would have this kind of impact,” Young said. “Instead of just being a nice place for people to have a picnic, it has become the basis for people to have an education for the schools in our area preparing them to be leaders of the future.

“When I went to school, every day when I went to class, somebody would say to us, ‘be prepared – one day you might run with world,’” Young said.

“They will be prepared, these fourth and fifth-graders. I guarantee you that they will be prepared.”

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12 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

OPINION

A look to the past could open a lot of hearts This year marks the 100-year anniversary that my great grandfather first set foot on American soil. With World War I looming, he looked to escape Germany and build a life HANS APPEN for himself in the General Manager hans@appenmediagroup.com United States. At 18-years-old he left his brothers and his parents and sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in search of the American dream.

By the time he reached the port of New Orleans, America had entered the war against Germany, and he was arrested under suspicion of being an enemy alien. The United States was not allowing the entry of any Germans at the time.

He was subsequently held in internment camps in the Southeast for some time, but was eventually released to his aunt in Boston. He then worked and went to night school at Lowell Institute (MIT), where he would earn his degree in engineering. Later in life he would build great Victory ships for the Navy and helped build the facility in Oakridge, Tenn., where the atomic

I simply cannot imagine the pain I would feel if my minister felt the need to gather his congregation in our sanctuary to talk about creating a security committee to protect the people coming to worship there. bombs that ended World War II were built.

As a country, we did everything we could not to let him in. We put him in prison and held him in internment camps. We held him without cause and violated his human rights.

Yet years later, he would help end

UNDER CONTRACT in 2 WEEKS

World War II. The irony of the timing and his 100-year anniversary in America is not lost on me.

He died in 1984, and four years later, his first great grandson was born and named in his honor and memory, Hans.

Fast-forward to two weeks ago, Appen Media Group launched Blackbox, the investigative journalism arm of the media company. And while we are not immigrants trying to start a new life in America like so many others today, or like my great grandfather so many years ago, we, in our own way, are striving to do our part to contribute to the ongoing story that is America. That is our heritage, that defines our values, and that is our future.

I wrote a column detailing the structure and goals for Blackbox that you can read here: tinyurl.com/jegydf9.

This week, we publish its first work – a story detailing pay discrimination allegations at an Alpharetta company involving 185 female employees. You can read it on page 8.

We are now working on several other projects, but one that has captured our attention recently involves local families affected by the President’s travel ban.

Executive Editor Hatcher Hurd interviewed Imam Asad Khan at the

Islamic Center of North Fulton and told him about what we are working on. He invited Hatcher and me to join him at a meeting at the Hamzah Islamic Center in Milton this Saturday where the organization CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) would be putting on a seminar for local Muslims on what the travel ban meant for the members of their mosques and what they needed to know about their rights as Americans.

Hatcher’s story about the event can be found on page 33.

I was one of two white men in the room, and the subject matter that they were discussing – that they had to discuss – gave me chills.

In the event that a parent or a grandparent overseas needs your assistance what should you do?

Nothing. Stay here.

How long is this going to last?

We don’t know. Definitely weeks.

Maybe months or even years.

If I am questioned by the FBI what should I say?

Tell them the truth, but call a lawyer if your rights are being infringed.

One thing in particular struck a nerve with me. CAIR’s Executive Director, Edward Ahmed Mitchell, wanted

See PAST, Page 15

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SCHOOLS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 13

‘Plan B’ for failing schools under consideration New legislation addresses issues in previous attempt

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – Gov. Nathan Deal’s anxiously awaited “Plan B” to fix low performing schools was unveiled last week in the Georgia Legislature with a more realistic vision of raising achievement levels for thousands of students.

House Bill 338 was dropped into the hopper last week by Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) as the alternative version of the Opportunity School District which passed last session. That plan was soundly rejected by Georgia voters in November who saw it as an overreach of the state into local school governance.

The revised plan – HB338 – still focuses primarily on improving achievement in the state’s lowest performers, but removes the firm control from the governor’s office.

Under the new proposal, a Chief Turnaround Officer (CTO), with a mandatory education background, will be

ARTHRITIS & TOTAL JOINT SPECIALISTS

appointed by the state Board of Education to direct intervention efforts.

State education groups gave cautious approval to HB338, noting it addressed many of the concerns raised in the Opportunity School District plan. “[We thank] Rep. Kevin Tanner for understanding that disagreeing on how [the state does] something is not the same thing as opposing doing something,” said Angela Palm, legislative director of the GSBA. “It has been a friendly, collaborative effort and we look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Tanner and others as the bill moves forward.”

The Professional Association of Georgia Educators also weighed in with support, noting in a statement they were “pleased to see the bill’s provision for a more robust root cause analysis of why schools are struggling, including community factors.”

PAGE was, however, concerned the Chief Turnaround Officer answered solely to the appointed State School Board instead of the elected State Superintendent of Schools.

The new plan is also a stark departure from the Opportunity School District which envisioned a completely separate school district composed of

the low performers. Under HB338, intervention and direction would be, at least for two years, within the existing school district.

Exactly which schools would be eligible for intervention would be up to the turnaround officer. But it would likely include those schools which score below 60 on the state’s 100-point College and Career Readiness Performance Index – the annual evaluation tool for all public schools.

Under this measure, nearly 130 schools would currently be eligible for intervention, including 10 in the Fulton County School System.

Other provisions of HB338 include: • The CTO will appoint coaches to assist schools in their intervention efforts, who will collaborate with districts to address specific issues impacting student achievement.

• Charter systems (which include the Fulton School System) can amend its flexibility contracts to agree to receive assistance from the state for schools identified as requiring intervention.

• Local boards that have no flexibility contract can sign an intervention contract to agree to receive assistance.

If intervention is rejected, the State

Board of Education can implement any of the interventions available in current law.

• Within 90 days of entering into the contract, a comprehensive evaluation of the school will be conducted, with recommendations to help develop an intensive school improvement plan.

• After two years, if the school is not improving, there are up to 10 interventions available. Those range from continuing the implementation of the plan, takeover by a non-profit entity or another school system, or a complete change in leadership and staff.

A sampling of education bills currently under review by the Georgia General Assembly • HR 58 amends the Constitution to allow the creation of new city school systems. The law currently limits school systems to counties (unless grandfathered in).

• HB 9 makes it unlawful to “upskirt” a person if they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Currently it is not illegal in Georgia to photograph up someone’s dress in an open area.

This bill would apply to those 16 and over.

See PLAN B, Page 15

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14 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Alpharetta YMCA names new chairman Ollie Wagner will take over for 2 years

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Growing up, Ollie Wagner and his family could often be found at the neighborhood YMCA. His family enjoys going to the gym so much, his parents’ first date was at a YMCA dance.

“I hung out at the Y pretty much every day after school and a good part of my summers,” Wagner said. “I learned to swim there, play pool and ping-pong, my mom taught ballet and my dad and I played in basketball leagues. It was always a great part of my life.”

But while previously working as the pastor at a small church, he was unable to pay for a membership and had to put his involvement with the Y on hold.

“I couldn’t afford it and didn’t have money to join a gym,” he said.

However after becoming the pastor at the Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, he was able to rejoin.

“Because it’s a bigger church and I make a little more money. I thought, ‘hey, we can now afford to join the

Ollie Wagner, new board chair with JoAnn Shephard, past chair YMCA,” Wagner said. “I toured the facility and thought it was the most beautiful gym I’d ever seen. I said, ‘if it works out with the church, we could find a house and the kids would have good schools and we could join the Y again.’”

So he joined and eventually became involved beyond just working out. He recently was named Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Ed Isakson/ Alpharetta YMCA for the next two years. But he never forgot the time he couldn’t afford a membership. He was leaving the Alpharetta location one day and learned about the YMCA Campaign which funds scholarships for gym members and children for camps.

“That opened a whole new world to me,” Wagner said. “What I realized is the YMCA is not your typical gym. It’s a non-profit with a mission of serving the community. That means, in part, turning no one away because they can’t afford to pay.”

Now, he said he’s happy to give his money and time to help the YMCA, especially since one in five people who participate in the Y, from summer camps to school programs, needs some financial assistance. Two thirds of the scholarship money helps children.

“I am on board,” he said. “I am a believer. I’m glad we can afford as a family to participate and that I am able to give financially back because you know it’s helping others. You don’t know who is on scholarship. It’s just one family.”

That opened his eyes to see the Y does more than sponsor dances, run swim lessons and basketball camps. He even visits Ys, and he soon realized the Y’s mission is nationwide and worldwide.

“It’s a mission for building stronger communities, helping academic preparedness for children, helping teen leadership develop and help form healthy lifestyles,” Wagner said. “It’s for all ages, special needs, foster care and all others. I’m one of those people

By the numbers • 18 branches of metro Atlanta YMCA • 150 YMCAs in metro Atlanta area • Started programming in 1984 at Alpharetta campus • Alpharetta building opened in 1995 who would say, ‘I had no idea the Y did so much good for so many people in so many ways.’”

And he will remember all of this while doing his job as chairman representing the Y. “Our job is to be cheerleaders and supporters of what the Y is doing,” Wagner said. “We can suggest ways to strengthen and enhance the mission while supporting the staff. We are trying to be part of the fabric of the community.”

For Wagner, his position is an opportunity to give back to an organization that has greatly blessed and enriched his life.

“I know it’s done the same for the people I’ve seen participate,” Wagner said. “I want to help in whatever way I can to further and strengthen the Y’s mission. I am honored to try and help out and provide whatever leadership service I can.”

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Past: Continued from Page 12 to make sure that the leaders of every mosque present were organizing “security committees” to make sure that their members could pray and attend services safely. My church has committees too; like communications, congregational care and finance. But we don’t have a committee to make sure our church grounds are safe and that our kids can play outside.

We don’t have to.

I simply cannot imagine the pain I would feel if my minister felt the need to gather his congregation in our sanctuary to talk about creating a security committee to protect the people coming to worship there.

Can you imagine your minister having that conversation with your congre-

Plan B: Continued from Page 13 • HB 32 would make it a sexual assault if an employee or non-student official of a school engages in sexual contact with a person known, or should have been known, to be a student at the school.

• HB 77 requires the Georgia Department of Education to provide a list of training materials for awareness in mental health, behavioral disabilities and learning disabilities to school systems.

• HB 90 makes it illegal for a member of a school board to participate in a discussion or vote on the purchase of real estate if there is a vested interest in the sale.

• HB 114 prohibits any school system receiving QBE funds from excluding students enrolled in one or more dual enrollment courses from being eligible to be named valedictorian or salutatorian.

• HB 178 establishes funding for counselors for students of military families at a rate of one counselor per 200 students. A minimum of 50% of the counselor’s time would be spent counseling or advising military students or their parents.

• HB 194 requires zoning standards to include consideration of the effect of the proposed zoning action on the school district and the potential overcrowding of schools.

• HB 198 requires education on

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 15

gation? In your sanctuary?

The last speaker, immigration attorney Hiba Ghalib of Kuck Immigration Partners, spoke about fears and emotions. She spoke about the fact that while emotions are high it is important to educate your neighbors and your coworkers on the truth about Islam.

That while you may feel hate, you should show love. That while you may be shown confusion, you should show understanding and offer answers.

Inner peace, strong heart.

During what must be one of the most trying times for the Muslim community in America they are teaching their own to love thy neighbor.

A century ago, my great grandfather, and all of our ancestors, faced challenges like our Muslim community does today. I am glad he stayed the course.

Our country is better off for it.

meningitis to also require education on influenza.

• HB 200 would allow students to carry and self-administer sunscreen.

• HB 211 creates a new income tax credit for purchasing and occupying a home in the attendance zone of an elementary school ranked in the lowest performing five percent of schools in the state.

• HB 217 increases the income tax credits allowed for donations to student scholarship organizations from the current $58 million maximum to $180 million.

• HB 224 allows students of military families to attend any public school in the district in which they live with the parents to be responsible for transportation.

• SB 3 the “Creating Opportunities Needed Now to Expand Credentialed Training (CONNECT) Act focuses on work-based learning and industry certification for students.

• SB 68 establishes a new voucher in the form of a “savings account” voucher that parents can use for private school, curriculum materials, postsecondary instruction, etc.

• SR 95/SB 76 attempt to change the Constitutional language about splitting the SPLOST proceeds between a city and county school district. If the districts cannot agree to call for a SPLOST, the district(s) with the majority of the students can move forward with the referendum.

• SR 105 allows public funding to flow to religious organizations (requires Constitutional amendment).

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This building houses a community of tech startups who meet, collaborate and innovate. We’re really a community and a support system for startups here.

KAREN CASHION, CEO of the Alpharetta Technology Commission 16 | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017

Cashion takes reins of Alpharetta Technology Commission New CEO rechristens ATC Innovation Center ‘Innovation Epicenter’

Alpharetta Technology Commission

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Alpharetta attorney Karen Cashion, who was founder and president – later chairwoman – of the Greater Alpharetta Tech Network, has a new full-time job as CEO of the Alpharetta Technology Commission.

“Yes, I have put away my legal career to take on this new role with the ATC,” Cashion said, sitting in her office at the ATC Innovation Center. “This is the work I’m passionate about – working to grow the Alpharetta techno-ecosystem we have now.”

The ATC Innovation Center, which opened in 2015 on Webb Bridge Road, is the main thrust of the ATC mission which is to incubate new technology companies. With the support of the City of Alpharetta and the Alpharetta Development Authority, it is set up so that entrepreneurial techno-geeks have the means and opportunity to develop their ideas into viable products or even companies.

The Innovation Center, which Cashion calls the “Innovation Epicenter because it is truly the epicenter of startup technology and innovation in Alpharetta,” is designed specifically for nascent tech companies before they are a company.

“This is where startups start,” she said.

The Center provides a 24/7 tech co-working environment. That includes

(www.innovatealpharetta.com)

HATCHER HURD/HERALD

Karen Cashion, the new CEO of the Alpharetta Technology Commission, wants to grow startup tech companies that will stay and grow in the Alpharetta community. event, office and conference room space.

“We have more than 30 tech startups and four early stage tech companies working out of this center now,” Cashion said.

In addition, there is a venture capital fund and startup foundry, led by Eleven Eleven Investments, moving into one of the Innovation Center offices in March.

But this center is far more than

just working space for tech startups, Cashion said.

“This building houses a community of tech startups who meet, collaborate and innovate. We’re really a community and a support system for startups here.”

The Innovation Center has flexible spaces for innovators that start with just a “hot desk,” which is a co-worker

• Established in 2012 by City of Alpharetta as 501 (c) 6 nonprofit.

• Commission comprised of some of Alpharetta’s leading tech companies, large and small.

• Commission members provide strategic input and help to identify opportunities for city’s tech sector.

• 4 ATC subcommittees: • Grow: designed to support innovation and tech startups • Build: tasked with identifying and helping to develop advanced infrastructure to support next generation of technology • Engage: designed to help develop relationships among Alpharetta’s tech companies, which builds community, collaboration, and innovation • Brand: creates new messaging to help attract business investment and maintain Alpharetta’s position as a leading location for tech ventures.

See CASHION, Page 18

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BUSINESSPOSTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 17

In Duluth, success breeds success Put your health There are two basic staples that must be present in order to have a lasting, successful business/ retail community: businesses and customers.

GEOFF SMITH It’s really that Assurance Financial, simple. At the gsmith@lendtheway.com core of it all, if you have those two things, then it’s up to the business/retail community to not mess it up. In East Roswell, where I grew up, we had plenty of customers in the early 1980s. And then they built a host of strip malls east and west along Holcomb Bridge Road. It almost didn’t matter what went into those buildings, at the time there was nothing else around and they were very successful. Over time of course, more attractive developments were built in surrounding communities and those developments struggled. But my point is that our city planners are constantly looking at their office/retail/residential mixes. To make residents happy, you need a good mix of retail and office infrastructure nearby. To make the retail businesses successful, you need good daytime traffic from the office community and nighttime and weekend traffic from the residential community.

Over the last 20 years I’ve watched the city of Duluth transform its downtown from a nondescript area along an industrial road into a very charming and vibrant gathering place. The city government invested a lot money to build an anchor in its downtown district – a sprawling city green with an amphitheater, a new city hall, and a water park.

That “anchor” has since encouraged retail and business development all around it.

As they say, success breeds

ahead of your bottom line

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales more success. Today, there are a number of new projects going up and around downtown Duluth. The most impactful will likely be a retail and restaurant development called Parson’s Alley. Sitting high up along the northern end of Duluth’s Town Green, the residential development will include restaurants Taiyo Ramen, Simply Done Donuts and Good Word Brewing & Public House. And according to the Gwinnett Daily Post, several other commercial and office developments near the Town Green will include a yoga studio, a $64 million mixed-use project called District at Duluth and a very cool concept called Truck and Tap that combines food trucks and craft beers. I actually first reported on the Truck and Tap after visiting their original location in downtown Woodstock.

Woodstock officials worked hard with the proprietor to allow the concept in which they sell craft beers and rent out space behind their building to food trucks. Patrons get a new restaurant every day. They get their food and then eat it inside the building while drinking the craft beer.

Can you tell I’m excited about this concept?

District in Duluth is under construction and sits about a mile from the Town Green. It will include hundreds of apartments, a pair of restaurant spaces and a dozen other storefronts.

So those are the businesses. Now for more customers. In tandem with this retail and office construction, two major residential projects are underway. One will go up just off the south end of the Town Green and will include 59 townhomes and 39 single-family homes. The other is a 36-unit townhome project going up next to City Hall. These developments will easily provide a couple hundred new nighttime and weekend customers for those businesses.

With more than $120 million in new private investment, the future looks bright in downtown Duluth.

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

As a small business owner that works long hours each day, are you carving out some time to keep in shape?

Do you allocate time in your busy schedule to work out and get some physical fitness? Staying physically fit will help you stay mentally fit, and enable you to do a better job in running

your business.

So how do you schedule time to do this?

Step one, put it on your calendar. Just like business meetings or internal meetings with your employees, scheduling time on your calendar to get some exercise is a must.

Step two, don’t erase the workout event on your calendar. Yes, things will come up that will tempt you to do so, but make your workouts as important as closing a new sale!

You can kill two birds with one stone by combining business with fitness. Instead of sitting around a table talking about your business plans, take a walk (or run) with your team and discuss business while you’re walking, not sitting! Scheduling a morning workout is much more realistic than during the day or after work. Most small business owners will tell you if they don’t work out in the morning, it won’t get done.

If you’re traveling, that’s no excuse either. Most hotels have workout facilities and all you need to do is schedule a wakeup call! Staying fit while running a small business will improve your energy level and mental aptitude, which will in turn help you more successfully run your small business. Put your health ahead of your bottom line.

18 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

New MBA chair striving to keep local business flourishing Joelynn Sargent heads up Milton Business Alliance

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Joelynn Sargent, a member of Milton Business Alliance (MBA) for the past five years, has taken over as chairwoman of the organization. Prior chair Andy Jordan ceded the seat to concentrate more on his role as membership director.

Sargent is the creator of Claravon Group, a consulting company to culti

vate business growth in both small and Fortune 500 companies.

Sargent said she has had a smooth transition to chair, and she is looking forward to her new responsibilities.

With a new year SARGENT and new chair the MBA is seeking new ways to benefit its members and the Milton business community, she said.

“The business community within Milton continues to change, and we are looking to adapt to those changes to benefit members and the community’s

Cashion: Continued from Page 16 space available 24/7 (the key is an erasable app that opens the door) for just $99 a month.

Meeting rooms are available to pitch an idea, and short-term leases for a room and a desk are available for $1,500 a month.

“It as reasonable a price as it can be in this community,” she says.

It is a diverse group of innovators whose fields range includes biotech, internet security, educational technology,

ness-based alliances the MBA keeps its focus solely on Milton and its businesses.

“One thing that distinguishes us is we are a community who own and operate businesses in Milton, so we are more selective as far as our membership,” Sargent said.

It’s not open to anyone from anywhere, so that means we don’t have a lot of people coming in and trying to use their attendance at events to sell something, it’s more about building relationships within the business community, supporting each other and helping the businesses grow. It’s more than just people passing out business cards.”

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHTS

Johns Creek welcomes Goldfish Swim School Business name: Goldfish Swim School Johns Creek Owner: Mark Sheppell About: Goldfish Swim School Johns Creek provides swim instruction to children ages 4 months to 12 yearsold in a unique setting with highly trained instructors, small class sizes, 90-degree pools and a state-of-the-art water purification system. In addition

businesses,” Sargent said.

The MBA will also expand membership to larger businesses as well as the large number of home-based businesses within Milton, Sargent said.

“We are looking to partner with the City of Milton to help encourage and cultivate businesses that are appropriate in our city,” she said.

The MBA hopes to partner with the city’s plan for a small business incubator, a program to help grow businesses and sustain small businesses within Milton.

Sargent is looking for 2017 to be a growth year for businesses and MBA membership.

She said unlike other busi-

to swim lessons, Goldfish Swim School of Johns Creek offers weekly family swims (for both members and non -members) and party packages.

Opened: Jan. 10, 2017 Address: 6000 Medlock Bridge Parkway, Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Phone: 770-744-0250 Website: www.johnscreek.goldfishswimschool.com film technology, manufacturing software, wearable technology and others.

“The ATC wants to help support Alpharetta’s start-up innovators, help them grow, and encourage them to stay in Alpharetta as they grow,” she said.

That last bit is the carrot for Alpharetta.

Greater Alpharetta has 6,000 tech companies in its environs, about a quarter of all tech companies in the Atlanta region. The city would like to grow and retain those companies.

First, the center reinforces Alpharetta’s place as the Technology City of the South. It also grows a clean industry in the city that offers higher paying

The Mansions comes to Alpharetta Business name: The Mansions at Alpharetta Owner: Mansions Senior Properties About: The Mansions at Alpharetta is a new senior-based community located in Alpharetta, GA but within easy drive of Milton, John’s Creek, Duluth, Roswell and Atlanta. Independent Senior Living is open now and Personal Care and Memory Support will open in 2017. We have the largest one and two-bedroom apartment homes in the Alpharetta

area -- serve three chef-prepared meals daily -- provide full-sized washers and dryers in every apartment -- all at an affordable, all-inclusive price. Come by and view our gracious apartment homes today.

Opened: Dec. 6, 2016 Address: 3700 Brookside Parkway, Alpharetta, Ga. 30022 Phone: 770-757-9677 Website: www.mansionsseniorliving. com

jobs and promotes the overall economic health of the area.

Finally, innovation begets more innovation, so it keeps the “pot boiling” to create more opportunities that are as yet undreamt.

So the Innovation Center provides the space, a community for tech innovators and supports the many start-up groups with ATC events that are hosted here: • ATDC startup circle meets Friday mornings • One Million Cup entrepreneur’s group meets Wednesday mornings.

The Greater Alpharetta Technology Network also hosts educational events

at the Innovation Center.

GATN’s next event March 29 is EchelonCommunicate’s Pitch Present program.

This is a program that teaches tech companies how to effectively pitch to investors and customers, Cashion said.

So it is not necessarily just for startups.

It is part of a regular rotation of events and meetings here intended to help support the Center’s startup community.

“My goal as new CEO of the ATC is to help to identify and develop new opportunities to foster the growth of Alpharetta’s technology ecosystem, from startups through the Fortune 1,000.”

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 19

THE CRUISE GIVEAWAY IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! 3rd Annual

Appen Cruise Giveaway January 19th - February 23rd, 2017

ATTENTION READERS!

2016 Winners Jeff & Elise Baggett

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We are kicking off 2017 by giving away a

FREE CRUISE!

$2,000 toward the cruise of your dreams!

It’s easy to enter – follow the steps below.

LOOK for the Expedia Cruise logo that looks like this, hidden throughout the papers each week.

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

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

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

– Jeff and Elise Baggett

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

Sponsored by:

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

One entry per household, per week.

20 || February February 16, 16, 2017 2017 || Forsyth Milton Herald

20 Herald| |NorthFulton.com ForsythHerald.com

CALENDAR FREE AARP TAX HELP

GREEN EXPO

Learn more about incorporating environmentally responsible, sustainable practices and products into day-to-day life at this free family-friendly event, with demonstrations and a green market.

Now in its sixth annual year, the expo has educational showcases, a mascot dance off and puppet show. The expo will be held Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Bill Johnson Community Building, 10495 Woodstock Road in Roswell. For more information, visit roswellgov. com.

Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton.com/Calendar.

EVENTS: JOHNS CREEK ARTS BOWLS FUNDRAISER

What: Enjoy a variety of chilies along with refreshments while supporting the Johns Creek Arts Center. Each ticket includes one handmade bowl out of over 300 choices, all created in their clay studio.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 3-6 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek Cost: Tickets are $20 at pre-order and $25 at the door More info: johnscreekarts.org

BACK IN THE SADDLE

What: See Back in the Saddle live and enjoy the sounds of their energetic Western music, including classic Cowboy songs, Western swing, movie theme songs and some original tunes.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: $20 More info: playhousecumming.com

THE JEWELS OF OUR LIVES GALA

What: Join Senior Services North Fulton supporters and community leaders in celebrating the lives of seniors in North Fulton and Senior Services North Fulton.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 6-11:30 p.m.

Where: Country Club of the South, 4100 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek Cost: Fundraiser tickets start at $150 per person More info: ssnorthfulton.org

THE UNTOLD STORY OF ROSWELL

What: Listen as Roswell residents share their stories of growing up in Roswell’s black community.

When: Sunday, Feb. 19, 3-4:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Visitor’s Center, 617 Atlanta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

LAWN WORKSHOP

What: Join the “Honey, I Shrunk the Lawn” workshop to learn about how to make the most of a lawn, reduce maintenance, save money and water, and provide a healthier environment.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 7-8 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Public Works Department, 1790 Hembree Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: alpharetta. ga.us or 678-297-6200

ROSWELL POETRY SLAM

What: The Roswell Roots Festival will present “Slammin’ in the Suburbs,” a poetry slam featuring 15 local talents as they read off their own works. First place wins $1,000. To compete, sign up in person at the event.

When: Thursday, Feb. 23, 7 p.m., signin at 6 p.m.

Where: Roswell Historic Cottage, 972 Alpharetta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

BEYOND MEASURE SCREENING

What: See a free screening of “Beyond Measure,” a documentary that focuses on the education crisis, the policies to blame for it and the possible solutions.

Registration is encouraged.

When: Thursday, Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Centennial High School auditorium, 9310 Scott Road, Roswell More info and registration: bit. ly/2k8ljm2

FREE TAX PREP

What: Get free tax preparation assistance by trained volunteers.

See website for full list of documents to bring. Walk-ins welcome Fridays and Saturdays.

Appointments available.

When: Through April 17, times vary Where: NFCC Education Center, 1125 Elkins Road, Roswell More info and registration: nfcchelp.org or vita@nfcchelp.org

What: Trained helpers are offering free tax services in multiple AARP Tax-Aide centers throughout tax season.

When: Times vary Where: Multiple locations throughout Metro Atlanta More info and locations: aarp.org

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: VIBE PERFORMANCE COMPANY DANCE SHOWCASE

What: The showcase will feature dance styles ranging everywhere from jazz and hip hop to musical theater and tap. There will be over 50 dancers, ages 7-18, showing off their skills and choreographies.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: Milton Center, 86 School Drive, Alpharetta Tickets: $15 online and $20 in person More info and tickets: vibeperformancecompany.com

WEST AFRICAN RHYTHMS

What: The founders of DrumRise will demonstrate the drumming techniques they learned from Guinean master drummer Mamady Keita. After a brief lesson, stay and join in the drum circle.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

“HAVING OUR SAY”

What: See the story of the Delany sisters, both over 100-year-old descendants of slaves, as they recount their family history and careers in this play that celebrates history, women and men, African Americans and the human spirit.

When: Feb. 16-19 and 22-26, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: Tickets start at $21 More info and tickets: get.org

“REMEMBERING ANNE FRANK”

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

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

LIBRARY EVENTS: HANS ON

What: The Tell Tale Theater troupe will adapt Hans Christian Anderson tales into a theater production. Tales include: “The Flying Trunk,” “It’s Perfectly True,” “The Princess and the Pea” and “The Little Match Girl.”

When: Friday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org

POETRY WORKSHOP AND PRESENTATION

What: Three published poets will put on a presentation on how to improve writing skills, express yourself through poetry and appreciate the craft. There will also be an open mic after the workshop and critiques.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 10:15 a.m.12:15 p.m.

Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

STOCKS: THE NUTS AND BOLTS

What: Edward Jones Financial Advisor JT Eggensperger will present this one hour seminar that will cover the differences between common and preferred stock, stock dividends and different ways to own stock.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, 10-11 a.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton More info: jt.eggensperger@ edwardjones.com or 770-754-5018

What: Two surviving friends of Anne Frank, Eva Schloss and Ed Silverberg, will recount their stories via video and through drama as actors portray them on stage. The show is friendly for young audiences.

When: Sunday, Feb. 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: $10 More info and tickets: get.org

YOUNG ARTISTS

“I, TOO, AM AMERICA”

What: Join the discussion for the 2017 Roswell Reads book “The Underdogs,”

by Melissa Fay Greene. The book explores the bond between dogs and children.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 21, noon-1 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org

What: View original works at “I, Too, Am America,” a multimedia exhibition by local artists exploring the experience of being black in America.

When: Through March 3, time vary Where: Johns Creek Art Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekarts.org

What: Children ages 7 and up will learn the basic techniques of drawing and painting, as well as the elements of art and the principles of design.

When: Saturday, Jan. 18, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

ROSWELL READS

THE GREAT DINO DIG

What: Learn about dinosaurs, what they ate, where they lived and how to find their bones today. Participants will conduct their own research to piece together the story of dinosaurs in this workshop.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 4-5 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

COLLEGE PREP 101

What: This workshop will provide information and tips on how students can sharpen their study skills for college and beyond. Learn how to become an active reader and effective note taker.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4402

FOREIGN FILMS AT THE ALPHARETTA LIBRARY

What: This month’s foreign film is “Beyond Silence,” a PG-13 German movie that follows a girl who grows up as the daughter of deaf parents, though she is hearing herself.

When: Thursday, Feb. 23, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: FREE TAX PREP SERVICES

What: Get free tax assistance, counseling and preparation. No appointment is necessary. Bring all relevant tax forms, last year’s return, a photo ID, Social Security card and checkbook.

When: Through April 18, times vary Where: Gwinett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 700, Busbee Center, Lawrenceville More info: aarp.org

CALENDAR

ForsythHerald.com NorthFulton.com| |Forsyth Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA:

A hike with a view One of the great things about hiking in northern Georgia is the great views that many hikes provide. You’re hiking along in the woods when the trail tops a ridge or passes through a STEVE HUDSON saddle, and there Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net it is – a grand vista opening up in front of you, sometimes providing an unrestricted view for miles and miles, all the way to the point where the mountains fade away into the soothing blue haze.

Or at least that’s how it is in the winter when there are no leaves on the trees. Sure, it’s cold in the wintertime.

You have to bundle up to keep from freezing. But the views…

On the other hand, there’s spring.

During the warming months that are just around the corner, months when many folks like to hike, trees start to leaf out. The shade is welcome as spring turns to summer, but the downside is that all that new foliage does a dandy job of blocking the sightline. Sure, the weather’s warm and the hiking can be pleasant. But if you’re looking for views, you just might need to forget it. Leaves and views simply don’t mix.

So, cold-weather views and freezing temperatures vs. warm-weather non -views but comfortable hiking: which one’s a body to choose?

As it happens, there’s a third choice. For a little while in the early spring, and in the late fall too, we get to enjoy a few weeks of moderate temperatures and minimal leaf cover. In the spring that’s because the leaves aren’t out yet; in the fall, if you time it right, it’s because the leaves have fallen.

Right now, of course, we’re on the edge of spring. Up in the mountains the trees are ready, but for now the leafy explosion hasn’t yet occurred.

That means pleasant hiking – and good views too!

Last week, I set out to see if I could find one of those early-spring trailswith-a-view. I succeeded, too, on the Jack’s Knob Trail, a connector trail linking Brasstown Bald with the Appalachian Trail a few miles away.

Actually, my primary mission was to find the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. I’m finishing up a new book on the trout of the Chattahoochee, from the uppermost reaches of the river to the lowermost extent of the trout water, and I found myself in need of a few photos of the place where the

The Jack’s Knob Trail actually starts near the summit of Brasstown Bald, then goes down the side of Springer Mountain and crosses Georgia 180 on its way to the AT. river begins. Those who study such things have decided, apparently based on elevation, that the river’s origin is not too far from the Appalachian Trail at a place called Chattahoochee Spring. That was my goal.

But, wait a minute now. Depending on which authority I chose to believe, the trail I planned to hike was rated either “moderate” to “fairly strenuous.”

Was I, who had surely spent too many winter hours sitting at the keyboard instead of keeping up my hiking chops, up to it? Sure!

Did I reach my goal? Well…

My jumping off point was the parking area at the intersection of Georgia 180 and the 180 spur, which is the road up to the parking area at Brasstown Bald. The Jack’s Knob Trail actually starts near the summit of Brasstown Bald, then goes down the side of Springer Mountain and crosses Georgia 180 on its way to the AT. In the interest of time, and because I was on an urgent journalistic mission, I decided to cut the length of the hike in half to about 2.4 miles each way and start near the trail’s midpoint where it crosses Georgia 180. There’s a small parking area there near a large informational sign, and that’s where I parked the car.

The trail intersection is a few dozen yards to the left along 180 back toward Georgia 75 and Helen. Shouldering daypack and GPS, I set off up the trail.

The trail, while not wide, is clear and easy to follow and begins with a steady climb. But about the time I began to think “I hope the whole thing isn’t like this,” it moderated into a gently rolling path that continued for a while. I passed a number of spots where the view across the mountains was unobstructed, but I was on that mission and so did not stop to appreciate them.

The relatively easy grade of this part of the trail provided a chance to

catch my breath and to pick up the pace too. I was making good headway despite a late start.

And then … Just about the time I was really getting into the rhythm of things, and just about at the exact moment I was telling myself that maybe I really was God’s gift to hiking after all, the trail reminded me otherwise.

That reminder was gentle at first, a slight but noticeable uphill trend. But then I was climbing, sure enough, and I realized all of a sudden that those “uphills” were all the time.

Being known to some as “Steve of the Wilderness,” and not wanting to give up all the glory and fame that comes with a moniker like that, I had no choice but to push on. Besides, I knew from the cheerfully glowing screen of my GPS that the climb didn’t go on forever. Did it?

I can make it till it levels out! I can make it.

But the trail grew steeper, and the legs ached more. I can make it. I can make – “Or I can stop right here,” I told myself. “And enjoy this magnificently unobstructed-by-leaves view that has suddenly and miraculously appeared.”

And so that’s what I did.

I’m not really sure what that particular view was showing me, but it was spectacular. It went on and on and on, the mountains fading to blue in the distance. It was view that demanded to be appreciated, and appreciate it I did for quite some time, there in the total and soul-soothing silence that only wilderness can bring.

After a while I looked at my watch and decided that I’d really not left enough time to finish the hike I’d set out to make.

“I’ll just have to come back and do it next week,” I told myself, and I’ll tell you about it when I do.

Then I turned back the way I’d come. I’d come about halfway to my goal, so I had about a mile and a quarter of trail between me and the car. I knew it would be blessedly downhill most of the way.

Whether on a remote wilderness area trail or on a trail closer to home, now is a perfect time of year to enjoy hiking! Close to home, learn about the great trails in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Steve Hudson’s book “Hiking the Hooch.”

Check out “Hiking the Hooch” at local outfitters, on Amazon, or at www. chattahoocheemedia. com.

SCHOOLS

LOCAL EXPERT

22 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Spring market is here.

Let's talk.

Cambridge’s SkillsUSA leaders meet with state representative ATLANTA — Cambridge’s SkillsUSA leaders met with District 47 (Milton) state Rep. Jan Jones at the state Capitol building where Jones informed the students on education legislation.

Jones and the Cambridge students toured the capitol building and explained how the legislative system functions.

SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA provides educational programs, events and competitions that support career and technical education in the nation’s classrooms.

MAN D Y THO M P S O N c. 404.372.2651 o. 770.442.7300 mandythompson@atlantafinehomes.com

Cambridge PTSA visits state capitol ©MMXVII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

MILTON, Ga. — Members of the Cambridge Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) visited the state Capitol to give students an opportunity to understand the legislative process and the issues the area’s elected representatives

face.

Cambridge students Lauren Lee and Lauren Chang, along with teacher Jim Campbell and PTSA Legislative Chairwoman Leigh Ann Maloney, visited the Capitol.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 23

Cambridge Athletic Association and LAX program host casino night MILTON, Ga. — The Cambridge Athletic Association and the Cambridge High School Boy’s Lacrosse Program are hosting their second annual Casino Night fundraiser for the Cambridge High School boy’s lacrosse team. Revenue generated by the event will help meet the initial financial needs of the program and also provide ongoing financial assistance.

The fundraiser will feature food, drink, casino games, music, dancing, raffles, a silent auction and more. It will be held at the Manor Golf and Country Club Clubhouse, 15951 Manor Club Drive, Alpharetta on Saturday, March 4 from 7:30-11:30 p.m.

Tickets are limited and registration is required.

The cost is $125 per person.

Visit cambridgelacrosse.org/casino-nightregistrationb to register online or contact Jay Leadingham at jay.leadingham@gtax.com.

If you go What: Cambridge LAX Casino Night When: Saturday, March 4th 7:30–11:30 p.m.

Where: The Manor Golf and Country Club Clubhouse 15951 Manor Club Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30004

Cost: $125 per person More Info: Visit http://cambridge lacrosse.org/casino-nightregistration to register online or contact Jay Leadingham at jay.leadingham@ gtax.co

Roswell Woman’s Club brings Mardi Gras home ROSWELL, Ga. – The Roswell Woman’s Club is inviting everyone to enjoy an evening filled with New Orleans flavor, buffet, open bar, and music for your dancing pleasure by The Ruby Red’s Band.

• Entertainment will include: • fabulous acrobatic performances from The Off Centered Project, • Shannon Stanley with Iterum Entertainment • live painting by Anne Bailey of Live Event Painting, which you will want to bid on.

• Festivities also include the Woman’s Club’s exclusive live and silent online auctions stocked with amazing items.

The Roswell Woman’s Club has been selected as one of the two beneficiaries of the gala. Proceeds will go to fund educational grants and scholarships and to continue RWC’s support of local nonprofit organizations in

If you go What: Roswell Woman’s Club Mardi Gras Ball: Bourbon & Boas When: Saturday, Feb. 25, 7-11 p.m.

Where: The Pavilion at Olde Town Athletic Club 4950 Old Towne Parkway Marietta, Ga. 30068 Cost: $125 per person More Info: $150 per person, to order go to: RoswellMardiGrasBall.com

human services, cultural arts, historic preservation and urban improvement.

Over the past 19 years RWC has given more than $2 million to worthy causes in the North Fulton community, said 2016 – 2017 RWC President Sherry Broadway.

You may also show your support for the Roswell Woman’s Club by purchasing tickets to the Roswell Mardi Gras Ball.

SUBWAY® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP Inc. ©2017 Subway IP Inc.

®

Photos by Simon Cudby & Hoppenworld.com. Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2016 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

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Fundraiser promises to be best of local gala events

SPORTS

24 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Rattlers cheer team racking up awards

The Rattlers cheer team. Front (L to R): Calla Campbell, Julia Hryczyk, Addyson Abbas, Kyra Dlugolenski, Maddie Becker. Back (L to R): Kendall Young, Mackenzie Marks, Camilla Palmer, Isabel Pino, Katelyn Notch, Coach David Byers.

MILTON, Ga. — The Rattlers cheer team, composed mostly of students from Summit Hill and Birmingham Falls Elementary, have won three regional competitions in a row and have earned Gold Champion status. In addition to their region competition wins, the Rattlers have been awarded overall champions in their last two events.

The overall Champion awards come with a ‘paid bid’, inviting the Rattlers to compete at the national championship for each of the leagues who sponsor the regional events with the league waving their registration fees.

Of the three overall champion awards so far this season, the most coveted has been the Gold Champion award which was won by the Rattlers on Feb. 4 at the NCA Atlanta Classic, held at the Lakepoint Sports Facility in Cartersville. The Rattlers beat out over 25 teams competing in their division in the win.

In securing the win, the Rattlers will now prepare for the U.S. Finals held in May. The team overcame the adversity of last year, where they regularly placed in last. However, their setbacks did not

deter them from their goal of being their best. With positive reinforcement from their coach, they willingly added more weekly practice and asked for more time in the gym. Individually, they have improved their skills in tumbling, jumping and stunting, but it is their improvements as a team that have grown the most. The long hours together, hard work, past defeats and current victories have bonded them together in friendship. Their love of cheerleading and for each other is evident and as a result, their team spirit is infectious both on and off the competition stage.

Coach David Byers puts an emphasis on hard work, respect and good sportsmanship above all else. While other cheerleaders may be into glitter, and other gyms may be into winning, Coach David’s athletes are into respect for others and themselves.

Byers’ philosophy has truly fostered their love of the sport and a positive gym environment that keeps the young athletes coming back for more. Ironically, by not just focusing on the win, the Rattlers team spirit may be secret to their success.

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SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 25

Milton fencing team ends season on high note MILTON, Ga. — Milton’s boys fencing team ended its season strong by placing four members in the top 10 percent in a field of over 300 participants.

Senior Amith Vadlamudi earned his third medal and the ninth medal for the team this season. Amith led the Milton men’s team by finishing eight overall.

Also finishing in the top 10 percent of the men’s division were Junior Ethan Lee (16th), Junior Jake Paris (17th) and Sophomore Lucas Rary (24th).

Girls’ team member Jordan Hirsch earned points in every tournament this season, won three medals and finished 13th overall in a field of over 200 girls.

Milton swim and dive competes in state championship MILTON, Ga. — Milton sent 16 swim and dive athletes to the GHSA state championship meet with Raunak Khosla earning a state championship in the 100 butterfly.

Cole Dobbs, Cara Doll, and Lainey Mitelman all made it to the finals for diving, placing in the top 20 overall.

Michael Critchfield, James Dailey, Raunak Khosla, and Justin Mercier all made it to the finals for swimming.

Their 400 freestyle relay placed 20th overall.

James Dailey placed 15th in the 100 backstroke and 19th in the 100 butterfly. Raunak Khosla placed 3rd in the 200 individual medley with a time of 1:49.46 and placed first in the 100 butterfly with a time of 48.68, earning a state championship. Raunak also broke both the Milton records, and earned All American times.

AHS’ Stanford to play Ga. Tech softball ALPHARETTA, Ga. - Cameron Stanford signs with Georgia Tech to play softball. Stanford will play outfield at Georgia Tech and study mechanical engineering. During her senior year at Alpharetta, Cameron led Alpharetta to its first playoff appearance in four years. Front row are from left are mother Tara Stanford, Cameron Stanford and father Mike Stanford. Standing is coach E.J. Francis.

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26 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Milton captured its first region championship since 2008 with an 81-70 win over Lambert in the Region 5-AAAAAAA championship game last Friday.

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MILTON, Ga. — Within Milton’s gym, a 15-foot high quote from OG Mandino towers over the court, stating, “I will persist until I succeed.”

In a season full of challenges, crucial loses and changes for the Milton Eagles, the team seemed to take the quote to heart.

This season saw Milton lose eight of its first 12 games, have its head coach step down midseason all while the team tried to find its identity all year.

Through it all, the Eagles still captured a region championship.

Milton beat Lambert, previously 11-0 against Region 5-AAAAAAA opponents, 81-70 last Friday at home to capture its first region championship since 2008.

Lambert had swept the regular season series between the teams, but with the region title at stake and Milton playing on its home court, the Eagles played aggressive all night to earn the win.

“The kids have been through adversity but I told them wins cure a lot of ills,” said Milton head coach Sean Revels, who took over for Matt Kramer in January. “We were on a four-game win streak and I knew the momentum was good and I knew this is where they wanted to be and they worked hard to get here.”

“This is the biggest win of the year for us,” Revels said. “We told them we wanted to win the region championship but we have to beat the best team, and they did that tonight.”

In the last meeting between the teams on Jan. 27, Lambert’s 3-point shooting was crucial to the Longhorns’ 95-86 win.

Revels said his team entered the region championship game with a plan to attack the rim and keeping Lambert from shooting threes.

“They are a three-point shooting team and they spread the ball out. We knew that if we kept them from shooting threes we knew they couldn’t beat us matching two point shots,” Revels said.

“The ball was real fluid for our offense and we attacked. I told the guys I don’t care how many deuces we miss, we have to attack the rim. Alex O’Connell got us going.”

O’Connell earned a double-double for the Eagles, scoring 16 with 11 rebounds. He was named the region Player of the Year after the game.

Milton freshman Christian Wright had a remarkable game for the Eagles, scoring 21 points with seven rebounds, five assists and two steals.

“Christian Wright was just special. He is a special freshman voted all-region by the coaches and that was because of his performance tonight,” Revels said.

Sophomore Donaven Hairston scored 19 points with two steals and a block.

Lambert was led in scoring by junior Austin Deckard who put up 17 points.

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 27

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Alex O’Connell and Aaron Thompson celebrate Milton’s region championship

Milton freshman Christian Wright scored 21 points with seven rebounds, five assists and two steals in the win.

Fellow juniors Jordan McIlwain scored 15 and Damon Stoudamire scored 13.

Milton’s plan of attacking the rim resulted in the Eagles opening a 30-20 lead in the second quarter. Lambert fought back multiple times but would ultimately never lead the game.

Milton led by seven with two minutes remaining when Lambert began to foul. Wright, O’Connell and Hairston all stepped to the free-throw line and kept Lambert at bay by netting free throws.

Revels said he believes the momen-

tum of the region championship win will carry on to the state tournament.

Milton will face Brookwood in the opening round this Saturday.

In losing the region title game, Lambert will enter the state tournament as the No. 2 seed and faces Parkview in the first round.

South Forsyth took down West Forsyth in the consolation game. South will face Berkmar and West will go on the road against Norcross to open the state tournament this weekend.

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SPORTS

28 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Grim injury not enough to stop Milton’s Belle Briede Briede playing soccer with U.S. U18 Women’s National Team

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com

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MILTON, Ga. — Milton student Belle Briede lay on the soccer field having just shattered her MCL in five places.

The force from the break was so great it had subsequently torn her ACL. Her eyes began to fill with tears, tears not caused pain she said, but the fear that her prominent soccer career had just ended.

Briede had been named an All-American three consecutive years, was selected for the U.S. women’s National U15 team and had verbally committed to Stanford University, one of the premier soccer programs in the country. But as she was being helped off the field, she wondered if those accolades would be her last.

After the extensiveness of her injury became apparent, Briede understood an arduous and long journey to recovery lay before her. But she vowed to do whatever it took to get back to the sport she loves.

“My injury was a turning point for me in the way it made me realize how much I love the sport and how much I value it,” Briede said. “The hardest part for me was to understand that I wasn’t going to be playing for such a long period of time. I’m so accustomed to going to practice every day, and having that suddenly stop was frightening.”

Briede’s road to recovery began with physical training, but she pushed herself well beyond her three therapy sessions a week. Briede would watch motivational speakers online, work her muscles every chance she had and pushed herself through the pain.

“It was so strange to not be able to have movements you had always been able to do, even just the simple movement of walking,” she said.

She was striving to get back to the sport, one that had been a part of her everyday life, but the gravity of her injury would not permit a quick recovery.

“The first time I tried to pass a ball I was unable to because of the pain,” she said. “A lot of self-doubt and depression came on because I was trying to push myself when my body wasn’t ready. My recovery was taking so much time and I didn’t want it to. You always want to quickly get back to anything you love so dearly.”

Slowly but surely, and not due to a lack of effort, Briede began to regain her strength. Nine months after her injury, she was back on the field and more determined than ever.

Briede used her injury as motivation to continue to strive for improvement.

“My mentality after I got back on the field was, if I can overcome my injury, I can overcome anything. I used that to push me in the future to get better physically and emotionally.”

With her revitalized vigor, Briede continued her standout performances, and a year to the day after her injury she was invited to join the U18 Women’s National Team.

Briede competed in an international tournament in Ireland, scoring two goals for Team USA. “Wearing the crest of Team USA is such an honor,” she said. “I am so grateful to be able to represent my country, play with the most talented players in the United States and against the best talent in the world. It is truly special to me.”

Briede was recently invited to attend the U20 team’s camp, a step she hopes will bring her close to her goal of making the Women’s National Team.

While she pursues that goal she will also be pursuing a national championship with Stanford. Briede verbally committed to the university her sophomore year and signed a National Letter of Intent in January. Stanford won a national championship in 1998 and has made appearances in the NCAA tournament 23 out of 33 years.

It wasn’t just the soccer program that will bring Briede to Stanford. After having spent a great amount of time on the West Coast attending national team soccer camps, she said Stanford had a feeling of home.

Briede said her commitment to Stanford was a dream come true.

“I never expected to go the West Coast, but with camps it became my second home,” she said. “The soccer program has a lot of success and to be a part of that program is an honor. I’m a little nervous to be so far from home but on my visit it felt like home and that everyone was going to get along.”

“It seemed very family-oriented and that’s important for me being so far away from home,” she said.

Before she arrives at Stanford, Briede will finish out her time at Milton.

Given the time commitment that is required to train and compete with the national teams, she does not play on Milton’s varsity team. In fact, she must miss weeks of class at a time while

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 29

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Briede signs her National Letter of Intent to play soccer at Stanford University, one of the premier NCAA soccer programs in the country. away at camps.

She says she must stay diligent to complete her studies while away at camps, but with the assistance of her teachers as well as online courses, she is able to continue her studies from various locations in the United States and abroad. Briede believes the strain of taking high school courses while traveling and training will prepare her for the academic rigors of Stanford.

Through her injury and her return

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“It’s incredible to see how everything has worked out,” she said. “Not many people know what I do and the sacrifices I make. I want people to know I’m doing something that so many others don’t have the opportunity to do and I’m pushing myself every day to succeed.”

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30 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

Top-seeded Alpharetta upset in the semifinals Raiders go on to beat Cambridge for No. 3 seed in state tourney

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Alpharetta certainly didn’t want to be in the third-place game at the Region 7-AAAAAA tournament. The Raiders entered the tournament with the No. 1 seed and had gone 15-1 against region opponents in the regular season. However, the Raiders were upset by Dunwoody, 70-59, last Friday in the tournament semifinals and were forced to settle for the consolation game against Cambridge.

Cambridge no doubt would have rather been playing in the region tournament, but a loss to Pope in the semifinals ended those hopes. However, the Bears were still pleased to be playing in the consolation game, because with it came an automatic bid to the state tournament, Cambridge’s first-ever state tourney berth.

Last Saturday the two teams met to decide which would claim the No. 3 seed from the region with a win. In the consolation game, Alpharetta beat Cambridge for the third time this season, winning 69-52.

Alpharetta was led by a standout performance from sophomore Brandon Barron who scored 18, gathered seven rebounds and had five assists and three steals. The Raiders’ Ryan Jenai led in scoring with 20 points, shooting 7-9 from the free-throw line. Jaycee Horn added 11 points.

Cambridge sophomore guard Kamar Robertson led the Bears with 14 points and nine rebounds. David Banks scored 12 points with seven rebounds.

After a back-and-forth first quarter, Alpharetta began to pull away and steadily increased its lead throughout the game to take the eventual 17-point victory.

With the win, Alpharetta earned the No. 3 seed for the state tournament and will face Tri-Cities on the road in the first round. Cambridge will make its first appearance in a state tournament game against Region 5-AAAAAA champions South Paulding (26-1).

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Alpharetta’s Marcus Hill defends in Alpharetta’s 69-52 win over Cambridge in the Region 7-AAAAAA consolation game.

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SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 31

St. Francis girls earn region title, boys fall in championship game Lady Knights win fifth straight region championship

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ROME, Ga. — The St. Francis boys and girls teams both vied for a region championship Saturday at Darlington High, with the Lady Knights winning their fifth straight region championship. The boys fell to North Cobb Christian.

The girls team had entered the Region 6-A championship game with an average margin of victory of 50 points over region opponents. The Lady Knights dominated in the region tournament, taking down Pinecrest Academy, 91-40, to claim another region title.

The Lady Knights beat Excel Christian 81-18 and Fellowship Christian 85-36 in the earlier rounds before their lopsided win over Pinecrest in the title game.

The St. Francis girls were ranked No. 1 in the power ratings, which determine the state tournament seeds for Class-A. The Lady Knights will likely enter the state tournament with the No. 1 seed where they will be seeking their third straight state championship.

The boys team also had dominant performances in the first two rounds of the Region 6-A tournament, a 68-49 win over Mt. Zion in the quarterfinals and a 78-29 win over Mt. Paran in the semifinals. But they came up short against North Cobb Christian in the finals.

North Cobb Christian (25-3) led the Knights from the outset and never relinquished its lead, going on to win 69-57.

The Knights had won the region title the previous four seasons, with North Cobb Christian the last to take the title from St. Francis in 2012.

The boys team was ranked fourth in the Feb. 12 power ratings. If the ratings stay the same, the Knights will host Stratford Academy (8-11) in the first round of the state tournament.

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32 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

Blessed Trinity baseball seeking success in new classification Titans played in three straight 3A state championships

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ROSWELL, Ga. — Blessed Trinity has been no stranger to success in Class AAA. The Titans captured three state championships, five region championships and have made the playoffs every year, advancing to the quarterfinals eight times in 12 seasons. In that span, the Titans have had 49 players go on to play at the collegiate or professional level.

It’s been a quite a run in Class AAA, but that run came to an end after last year with the GHSA’s reclassification of schools. The Titans, one of the most successful programs in the state since its inaugural season in 2001, now makes the leap to Class AAAA and will play in a new region that goes along with the rise in classification.

Titans head coach Andy Harlin, in his 16th season with the program, said the new classification and region is certainly a transition, but the three-time state champions will concentrate on competition — not changes.

“We are more geared toward the game versus how big the school is,” Harlin said.

“Georgia has good teams in all classifications. There are a lot of good teams and big-time players peppered throughout the state. There is definitely a high concentration in AAAA, so [the new classification] is definitely going to be a challenge but we are looking forward to it.”

BT’s new region includes three teams — West Hall, Chestatee and White County — that the Titans will be facing for the first time this season. The final team in the region, Marist, has won 12 state championships, most recently back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011, and has won over 20 games in seven of the last nine seasons.

“We have played Marist before, and we know what a great program they have,” Harlin said. “Their head coach Mike Strickland and I go way back, and we know he is going to have his kids prepared. He is a phenomenal coach.”

In their new region and new class, BT will be seeking its sixth straight region championship and fourth straight appearance in the state championship series.

Much of BT’s success the past few seasons has come thanks to its defense and pitching, which Harlin calls the “blood and guts” of baseball. In the past two seasons, the Titans have given up an average of just one run per game in 72 games.

“Our pitching coach, Jamie Wagner, does a great job and our assistant coaches do a great job preparing our guys defensively,” Harlin said. “Everyone loves the hitting side of the game, and we do that too, but we know how important the defensive side is.”

A sizeable chunk of last year’s defensive standouts were lost to graduation, including pitchers John Michael Bertrand and Hayden Lehman, as well as fielders Colin Dore, Conor Davis, Jake Bogosian and Garrett Dupuis.

“They were a dedicated group,” Harlin said. “A lot of those guys were on a couple of state championships and had been through the battles. They definitely left a pretty impressive legacy behind them.”

Harlin said with their absence he will look to this season’s senior class, which includes pitcher Peyton Glavine, outfielder Colin Davis, and infielders David Dunn and Jake Lundkovsky among others.

Blessed Trinity senior David Dunn.

JOE PARKER/HERALD

This year’s senior class will have high expectations. In their time with BT, they have gone to the state championship finals every year.

“These guys have been in the trenches in the big battles,” Harlin said. “They have seen the classes before them and they know what it takes. They have gone from being the young guys to experienced veterans and we look to them to lead us.”

Harlin said many positions, including his pitching rotation, have many great candidates. He says the final lineup will be settled on the field during non-region play.

The Titans streak of 49 straight wins, dating back to the 2015 season, ended last year, as did its run of consecutive state championships when the Titans were beaten late by Westminster in both losses in the state championship series.

Harlin said though he is aware it’s a cliché, the Titans will focus one game at a time this year.

“We don’t have any kind of record in sight or a goal to win a certain number of games. We can’t control all that stuff. You can do everything right and lose. We just want to compete. It’s a grind, and if you are looking too far ahead the concentration isn’t there, and it’s a very mental game.”

Blessed Trinity begins its season this Thursday against Cambridge.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 33

Immigration law explained to local Muslims Muslim rights organization tells residents where they stand on 7-country travel ban

By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. – Edward Ahmed Mitchell, executive director of Council for American Islamic Relations – Georgia, makes it clear why last Saturday he chaired a “Know Your Rights” meeting at Hamizah Islamic Center in Milton.

“The president’s executive orders on immigration are not about national safety. The executive orders are about keeping America racially, religiously and culturally monolithic,” Mitchell said. “Some of the people around the president have a problem with Muslims and other minorities.

“The executive order is a reflection of that. As a matter of principle we think it is wrong and that is why we are speaking out against it. We think it is wrong and motivated for unconstitutional reasons.”

Practically speaking, it has “wreaked havoc” on the local Muslim communities, and the Council of American-Islamic Relations is reaching out to them to explain what the travel bans on seven Muslim countries – Syria, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Libya and Yemen – means and how it may affect them or family members. The executive order is in abeyance after a legal challenge has been upheld in court. But that can change if a new executive order, perhaps more carefully structured, is issued and is acceptable to the courts.

“Even people who are not directly affected by the ban have been thrown into chaos because they are not sure they can comfortably leave the country or not,” Mitchell said.

Anyone from the seven proscribed countries who has a green card, stu-

dent visa or work visa – any status less than full citizenship – should not leave the United States at this time because the ban or one like it could strand them outside the country.

No ban against travel could apply to people with U.S. citizenship. Those who have family members overseas who have status but are not citizens and wish to come back should do so now while the order is suspended, Mitchell said.

“Meanwhile, I think every mosque should continue interfaith dialogue with their neighbors, open the doors up and welcome to learn what Muslims are all about,” Mitchell said. “Education is going to be the best vaccine against this sort of education.”

At the Hamizah Islamic Center, Mitchell and two Muslim attorneys covered a number of topics regarding safety and security for residents and their families.

The panel recommended Muslims should introduce themselves to their non-Muslim neighbors.

“Let them know what Islam is about,” Mitchell said. “Don’t be afraid to be a Muslim. Get off the sidelines and vote. You are part of the system.

You have jobs and you pay taxes.”

Mitchell also recommended parents talk to their children about being bullied at public school – something every child will likely experience.

“We may win the battle but lose the war if our children are afraid to be Muslims,” he said.

Immigration attorney Hiba Ghalib told the residents gathered that in today’s climate, no one can afford to be ignorant of the law.

“We need to know our rights and

HANS APPEN/HERALD

Attorney M. Khurram Baig addresses the audience on personal security. Looking on are fellow panelists Edward Ahmed Mitchell and attorney Hiba Ghalib. responsibilities. We are Americans, and we must stand up for our rights and our neighbors’,” she said. “We must stand up for the Constitution. That’s why most of us are here.”

Ghalib spelled out the rights of travelers who are documented. These are especially hard times even for documented persons because of people fleeing so many wars while the United States is reducing the number of refugees it will allow by almost 50 percent.

Non-citizens who are registered resident aliens are given what is called a green card, which allows them to stay in the United States and to travel and return.

“If you have your green card, you cannot be prevented from returning, but you may be pressured to give up your status,” Ghalib said.

This happened to several green card holders who were taken off a plane and pressured to sign away their status.

“Immigration authorities don’t have the authority to force you to give up your green card,” she told the audience.

“You should never voluntarily surrender you green card or give up your residency.”

She also warned that naturalized citizens were being stopped and questioned. But their rights cannot be abridged – nor can those with dual citizenship.

“They were trying to stop people coming back from the Caribbean to send to Syria.”

She also said there are reports of FBI agents canvassing immigrant neighborhoods doing “Community outreach.”

“The FBI doesn’t do community

outreach. You should always be cooperative but stand up for yourself and you can always ask for a lawyer,” Ghalib said.

Locally, Ghalib said safety is everyone’s duty. If a crime is in progress call the police.

“We are Muslim Americans and proud about positively contributing to our country. It is our duty to do so.”

M. Khurram Baig, also an attorney, spoke about taking steps for personal security. He said that begins with making yourself known to your neighbors.

“We cannot afford to be unknown.

We can’t hide. So know your neighbors.

They look out for your security more than you do yourself,” Baig said.

He said engagement in the community is expected and it increases security at the same time.

“They see a lot of reaction to Muslims on TV. But do they really know a Muslim? Your neighbors have to know you.”

Muslims must be security conscious all the time. He noted the Quebec assault on a mosque. It can happen anywhere, he said.

Baig said any discussion about security brings up firearms. He was not recommending anyone buy a gun for their home. He did say if someone makes that choice to be sure to get the training to learn how to use it safely.

What Baig did recommend was personal defense classes. This is especially true for Muslim women. They are easily singled out because of their dress.

Everyone should have a fire evacuation plan for their home. When the house is on fire is no time to make a plan, he said.

SCENE & HURD

34 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

ROSWELL ROOTS FESTIVAL:

GET’s ‘Having Our Say’ raises human spirit high Daughters of slaves, sisters recall remarkable 100 years together

HATCHER HURD

Scene & Hurd hatcher@appenmediagroup.com

ROSWELL, Ga. – Georgia Ensemble Theatre is teaming with the Roswell Roots Festival to bring to the stage “Having Our Say, The Delany Sisters First 100 Years,” the story of two centenarian sisters who reveal their remarkable views on life,

race and gender.

GET Artistic Director Robert Farley says the play, which operates on several levels at once, is remarkable because the Delany sisters were real people and the play is told in their words. “‘Having Our Say’ praises the human spirit and the enlightening lives of two truly American heroes that people of all ages will appreciate,” Farley said.

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The sisters, 103-year-old Sadie and 101-year-old Bessie, were the daughters of slaves. They rose to prominence in their communities and are considered pioneers in the civil rights movement.

Their story first saw light as a feature interview by Amy Hill Hearth in the New York Times. Hearth then expanded it into the book “Having Our Say,” which was on the NYT’s Best Seller List for 105 weeks.

It was turned into a successful Broadway play, and now it has come to Georgia Ensemble Theatre.

Actor/director Andrea Frye is directing the show. She sat down for an interview about the production and her delight to be part of it.

“Bob Farley and I go back 20 years.

I was so pleased he asked me to direct this play,” she said.

“What drew me to it was it is so contemporary still today – like all good works the story has appeal today,” Frye said.

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“It’s just two women onstage having these conversations, getting the giggles and talking about the things that moved them.”

It turns ironic when they speculate if there would ever be a black president, and decide no – there would be a woman president before that would ever happen.

“But through the dialogue, you hear the philosophy of these two women, truly American women, black women.

“And these were women who were born into impoverished circumstances, yet both of them rose to be professionals – Bessie was a dentist in Harlem and Sadie a teacher. They grew up to be the kinds of people they were because of the principles that were instilled in them. Their father was the first black Episcopalian bishop in the U.S. “Their stories speak to us all. That is what makes them so special.”

Frye said the sisters have different personalities, one is militant and one is non-confrontational.

“But they are close. They finish one another’s sentences. But one is certainly Daddy’s child and the other is Momma’s child.”

Asked what she liked best about the play, Frye said she was grateful for the chance to be in the company of these

If you go What: “Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters First 100 Years” When: Feb. 16-March 5 Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center More Info: $29 to $35, go to get. org or call box office: 770-6411260 two sisters.

“Their story was one that is universal and righteous. They came from a tradition of service – to make the world a better place,” she said. “They had a servant’s heart, but they were not subservient. They fought for their place in the world and that place was to help others.”

Frye was also ebullient about working at GET and with Bob Farley.

“He gives you full rein to present your vision. Bob was always respectful and supportive of my vision for the play.

“They are doing exciting work here.”

And that should be the bottom line for any theater company.

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Donna Biscoe, left, and Brenda Porter star as the Delany sisters in “Having Our Say, The Delany Sisters First 100 Years.” The Delany sisters were pioneers both as civil rights activists and as career professionals.

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 35

Local wrestlers compete in GHSA state championships Five capture individual state championships

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MACON, Ga. — Wrestlers from 14 North Fulton/Forsyth County schools competed in the GHSA Traditional State Championships last weekend at the Macon Coliseum. In all, 29 wrestlers placed in the top-six in their respective weight classes and five captured state championship titles.

Cambridge captured two state titles in the 145 and 160 weight classes.

Cambridge freshman Gavin Kane began his high school career with an undefeated (14-0) year, capped off with a state championship in AAAAAA for the 145 weight class. Also from Cambridge, Will Britain ended his high school career going 56-0 and capturing his fourth straight state championship.

Britain defeated South Paulding’s Jake

McTyre in a 12-5 decision.

Nick Markus of Alpharetta won a 3-1 decision in the 220 state championship match to improve to 29-2 at Alpharetta.

Also in Class AAAAAA, Chattahoochee’s Ethan Phillips finished his high school career with a 44-2 overall record and captured the state championship in the 138 weight class.

Blessed Trinity sophomore Vincent Baker captured the AAAA state championship by fall in the 138 weight class.

Baker is 49-4 in his high school career.

North Forsyth sent 11 wrestlers to the state championships and finished with the highest team score of all local schools, placing fifth in Class AAAAAAA with 100 points. Blessed Trinity placed 11th in Class AAAA and Chattahoochee has the highest team score in AAAAAA, placing 11th with 68 points.

Though Mt. Pisgah placed just one wrestler in the top-six of any weight class, Pisgah finished 16th in team scores in Class-A.

Top placers at GHSA wrestling state championships Wrestler

School

Place

Weight (Class)

Karlos Nadal Joseph Metz Noah Kile Vincent Baker Jack Filipowicz Keegan Connolly Grant Harney Ethan Phillips Gavin Kane Will Britain Daniel Gladwell Matthew Maruszak Nick Markus Noah Latzch AJ Riner Abraham Perez Paul Watkins Sam Ranta Jackson Baraff Charlie Ranta Cole Tenety Daniel Morin Conner Carroll Andy Leggett Eric Kohlins Brantley Little Connor Cross Sebastian Legarra Hunter Jolly

Mt. Pisgah Pinecrest Blessed Trinity Blessed Trinity Blessed Trinity Chattahoochee Centennial Chattahoochee Cambridge Cambridge Chattahoochee Johns Creek Alpharetta Chattahoochee South Forsyth Forsyth Central North Forsyth South Forsyth South Forsyth South Forsyth North Forsyth Lambert North Forsyth North Forsyth Lambert North Forsyth North Forsyth Forsyth Central West Forsyth

2nd 5th 4th 1st 6th 4th 3rd 1st 1st 1st 6th 5th 1st 4th 3rd 5th 2nd 4th 6th 5th 6th 5th 5th 3rd 2nd 4th 3rd 6th 3rd

113 120 138 152 182 120 126 138 145 160 182 195 220 285 106 113 120 126 132 138 138 145 160 170 182 182 195 220 285

(1-A) (1-A) (AAAA) (AAAA) (AAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA) (AAAAAAA)

Share your opinions northfulton.com

TWITTER

Cambridge’s Will Britain captured the state championship in the 160 weight class of Class AAAAAA. Britain ended his high school career undefeated (56-0).

CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE PH-17-AB-02 PLACE 13000 Deerfield Pkwy Bldg 100 Ste 107E Milton, GA 30004 DATE & TIME 2/22/17 6:00 PM PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Wine and Malt Beverages APPLICANT Sirus Trading Investment LLC dba I Love NY Pizza 980 Birmingham Road Milton, Georgia 30004 Kamil Kaya 770-442-9699

CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE PH-17-AB-03 PLACE 13000 Deerfield Pkwy Bldg 100 Ste 107E Milton, GA 30004 DATE & TIME 2/22/17 6:00 PM PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Wine, Malt Beverages and Distilled Spirits APPLICANT HDRA LLC dba Ichiban Steak & Sushi 5306 Windward Parkway Milton, Georgia 30004 Yul Ku Lee 704-512-1445

36 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 the man, 25-year-old Abraham Vah from New York, once they arrived.

A loss prevention officer told police that they had recognized Vah as someone who had used fake credit

cards in several other locations. When Vah attempted to buy two iPads at the North Point location and presented a fake credit card, the loss prevention officer called 911. It was at that point that Vah bolted.

While arresting Vah, police found him in possession of eight other credit cards that were determined to be fake.

CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND CITY CODE RZ17-03 – Consideration to amend Sec. 64-418. - Pre-development notification and public informational meeting and Sec. 64-419.

Definitions of the AG-1 (Agricultural) Zoning District.

RZ17-04 – Consideration to amend Sec. 64-441 – Pre-development notification and public informational meeting and Sec. 64-441.

Definitions of the R-1 (Residential) Zoning District.

RZ17-05 – Consideration to amend Sec. 64-464 – Pre-development notification and public informational meeting and Sec. 64-465.

Definitions of the R-2 (Residential) Zoning District.

Arrests: Continued from Page 2 expired tag. ►► Kevin Barry McNiff, 56, of Gilbert, Arizona, was arrested Jan. 24 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and failure to yield. ►► Baster Emmanuel Alavaz-Magana, 36, of Worthington Hills Manor, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 5 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for DUI, following too close, no license and hit and run. ►► Homer Lee Walker, 56, of Blackheath Trace, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 30 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Robert Salassi Jr., 46, of Cold Creek Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 31 on South Main Street in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Antonino Allegra, 63, of Savanna Estates Court, Canton, was arrested Feb. 4 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, speeding and signals required. ►► Raquel Felice Edwards, 29, of

RZ17-06 – Consideration to amend Sec. 64-487 – Pre-development notification and public informational meeting and Sec. 64-488.

Definitions of the R-2A (Residential) Zoning District.

RZ17-07 – Consideration to amend Sec. 64-2453. – Creation of a historic preservation commission.

Chapter 2 of the City Code – Administration – Sec. 2-206 – Duties of the Planning Commission.

Public Hearings:

Community Zoning Information Meeting (CZIM) Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.

Milton City Hall – City Council Chambers (New City Hall Location) 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004

►► Robert Lee McLeod, 36, of Due West

Drive, Dallas, was arrested Jan. 30 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana. ►► Ryan Lee Stuhler, 27, of Mill Creek Avenue, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 1 on North Point Drive in Alpharetta for possession of a schedule I controlled substance and possession of drug-related items. ►► Charelle Monique Hagler, 34, of Mid Broadwell Road, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 1 on Alpharetta Highway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, open container and suspended license. ►► Tashana Aliyah Peace, 32, of Treeridge Parkway, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 1 on Westside Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR REZONING Petition No.: Location: Applicant: Request:

RZ17-02 12800, 12830, and 12850 Hopewell Road Fuqua & Associates To rezone from AG-1 (Agricultural) to R-4A (Single Family Dwelling) to develop 17 single family lots on 14.6 acres at a density of 1.16 units per acre.

Public Hearings:

Community Zoning Information Meeting (CZIM) Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.

Design Review Board Meeting (DRB) Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.

Location:

Location:

DRUG arrests

CITY OF MILTON

Planning Commission Meeting Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. (New Time) Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107E (Council Chambers) Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2500 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Mayor and City Council Meeting Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.

Hunters Club Lane, Norcross, was arrested Feb. 5 on Rucker Road in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and impeding traffic. ►► Beau Andrew Yancy, 28, of Harbor Landing, Roswell, was arrested Jan. 31 on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI and open container.

Planning Commission Meeting Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. (New Time) Location:

Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107E (Council Chambers) Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2500 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Mayor and City Council Meeting Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.

Location:

Milton City Hall – City Council Chambers (New City Hall Location) 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 37

ONLINE INCLUDED

» Hiring? Pay once & we’ll run your ad until your position is filled.* » Selling Something? Pay once and we’ll run your item until it’s sold!*

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Truck loaded for NGB Driver at various yards & plants; unloaded by NGB Driver at job site via Princeton (forklift). 5:45am-5pm, can be later.

Making several deliveries/day through metro Atl traffic TRUCK MECHANIC: Need valid DL, basic hand tools, strong mechanical aptitude & troubleshooting skills.

Diesel exp & ASC cert a plus. Ability to handle physical workload. Maintain/repair industrial equip. Min 40 hrs/ wk& some Sats. Perform Class A, B, & C svcs on Semi Tractors & Trailers; routine preventive maint, other duties as req’d to support operations; respond to work order requests in timely fashion; adhere to all safety policies & procedures

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

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Job Seekers

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT JOB FAIR Balfour Beatty Communities, a leader in the residential housing industry is seeking seasoned professionals to join our team at Nesbit Palisades in Alpharetta, GA. Visit us at our Job Fair, bring your resume & be ready to interview!

WHERE: Nesbit Palisades, 8520 S. Holcomb Bridge Way, Alpharetta, GA 30022 WHEN: Wednesday, February 22nd, 12 noon - 7 pm

Asst Community Manager Leasing Agent Maintenance Technician

About Appen Media Group: Appen Media Group is a multimedia news company with a focus on print newspapers. AMG publishes

TRUCK DISPATCHER: HS Diploma, knowledge of N. Fulton & Northside Atl roads; very good communicator; ability to organize workload efficiently; must handle itineraries of several trucks (multitasking skills important!)

Mon-Fri & Sats. CDL Class B a plus. Comprehend work orders by ensuring workload is studied thoroughly; determine most efficient routing & transportation ways for delivery & pick-up of goods; Communicate w/drivers to provide them w/route & delivery times info for direct scheduling of deliveries.

Resumes: Tina Ph 770-205-3554

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

*Some Restrictions

Balfour Beatty Communities offers a competitive compensation & benefits package. Can’t attend? apply at: www.balfourbeattycommunities.com/careers

EOE/AAE

MAIN CLASSIFIEDS continued on page 38

DEATH NOTICES Louis Corsiglia, of Roswell, passed away February 6, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Eliza Renee` LeMieux passed away February 2, 2017. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Herman Oellerich, of Roswell, passed away February 3, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Kurt Schweitzer, of Alpharetta, passed away February 7, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Elliott Lawson Pettey Jr., 64 of Cumming, passed away February 2, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Jimmy Lee Thompson, 74 of Cumming, passed away February 4, 2017.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Varnell Rucker, of Alpharetta, passed away February 5, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Robert Elvin Turner, 53, of Cumming, passed away February 5, 2017.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

William Lesnett, of Roswell, passed away February 6, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Theresa Dougal, 87, of Cumming, passed away February 3, 2017. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Richard Gimpel, of Alpharetta, passed away February 3, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Guynell Martin, of Alpharetta, passed away January 31, 2017. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

38 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

HOUSECLEANERS NEEDED!!!

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 16, 2017 | 39

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Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home.

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40 | February 16, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

1025 Stonegate Court 6 bedrooms | 5.5 bathrooms | Now offered for $998,000

12725 Etris Road 6 bedrooms | 4.5 bathrooms | Offered for $789,000

Top Performer, North Atlanta Office Call me today.

1965 Long Hollow Lane 7 bedrooms | 5 full and 2 half bathrooms | Offered for $1,279,000

Michele Gallagher c. 678.910.4310 o. 770.442.7300 michele@atlantafinehomes.com atlantafinehomes.com | sir.com ©MMXVII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.