Johns Creek Herald, March 6, 2014 by Appen Media Group

Sponsored Sections Real Estate Report ►►PAGE 20 Summer Camps ►►PAGE 22

Residents hear local history

Rec plans for the disabled

Elected officials give little-known facts ►►PAGE 28

JC recreation unveils summer activities ►►PAGE 4

March 6, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 10

E AT ST

City moves to fix school zone signage

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A RO GE ID BR

Accusations of ‘speed trap’ spur action

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By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com

OCEE ELEMENTARY

RED DOTS: Denote School Zone Signs. YELLOW DOT: Denotes flashing light motorists don’t see making yield turn onto State Bridge Road.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – After two Johns Creek residents lodged complaints about what they termed a “speed trap” in the city, it appears officials are taking steps to make signage more explicit near Ocee Elementary School at the intersection of Kimball Bridge Road and State Bridge Road. Two residents say they were cited for speeding in the Ocee ES school zone, but they say there is a hole in the city’s signage system. When they tried to explain this to officials, it fell on deaf ears. Keith Noelen and another man, who asked his name not be used, were in traffic court the same day. Noelen heard the other man explaining to the solicitor why someone making a turn northbound from Kimball Bridge Road onto eastbound State Bridge Road would almost certainly miss the “Entering School Zone” flashing light on State Bridge. They compared notes and decided the city was not interested in

See ZONE, Page 6

Arun Misra announces GA economy ‘optimistic,’ national recovery only tepid for City Council post GSU ECONOMIC FORECAST »

State ends 2013 on high note as unemployment falls By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ATLANTA – Georgia State University’s economic forecaster Rajeev Dhawan likes many of the leading economic indicators swimming in calmer seas, but he is not predicting the U.S. economy will be charting any deeper waters in 2014. In other words, 2014 will not be the “big break-out year”

signaling a return to the good old days of 2003, ’04, ’05 and ’06, much less the glory years of the 1990s. While positive data shows DHAWAN a 30 percent growth in the stock market, continued improvement in auto sales and a falling unemployment rate, it is more than tempered by the sluggish 2013 growth in capital investment –

See ECONOMY, Page 7

Retired businessman wants to give back to community By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Ammersee Lakes resident Arun Misra, Ph.D., has announced his candidacy for one of the open seats on the Johns Creek City Council. He said he will decide which seat at the end of qualifying March 5. Misra retired from a 20year career as a research scientist and college professor and a second career of 25

years in real estate and insurance sales. Now he wants to give back to his city of 15 years and run for council. “I want to apply his knowledge and skills for the improvement of the quality of life for the citizens of Johns Creek, and to see that the city grows further and attracts quality people and businesses into its limits,” Misra said. That begins with making the city itself more attractive with better streetscapes.

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“We don’t have a post office, we don’t have a big mall where we can shop. We don’t even have our own ZIP code. We don’t have MISRA these things, and it hurts the city not to have them,” he said. Another reason for his campaign is to make minorities and immigrants more politically aware and involved. “I come to all the City

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Man pawns $4K in jewels, watches 770-442-3278 northfulton.com

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Roswell man was arrested Feb. 22 after allegedly spending two days walking between a retail store and pawn shop, stealing thousands of dollars in jewelry. Police were called out to the Von Maur store at North Point Mall after a report of a shoplifter who ran from the store and hid in a nearby movie theater. Store employees said

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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.

Teens break into high school JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Two teenagers were arrested after they allegedly broke into Chattahoochee High School Feb. 9 and tried to steal candy. A motion sensor alarm went off in the school at 2:46 a.m. Police arrived and found a side door propped open by a rock. Inside the school, they found two 15-year-olds – a boy and a girl. The teenagers told police they broke into the school along with a third boy, a student at Alpharetta High. They allegedly broke into the school store where they took candy and smashed the cash register, taking $200. Both students were charged with burglary. One of the teenagers also had a knife and was charged additionally with possession of a weapon on school grounds.

Repeat vodka thief hits store ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The same suspect entered the Total Wine and More liquor store three days in a row and stole bottles of alcohol. Store employees told police

they saw Kevin Julian Tucker, 18, of Westchester Crossing, Roswell, take watches and jewelry from the store by placing them into his TUCKER pockets. Employees said they

chased him out of the store and, when he was running, he briefly stopped by a car parked nearby. He then ran into the Regal Cinemas where he bought a ticket and was lost by his pursuers. While officers searched for Tucker, he allegedly returned to his vehicle where he was picked up by police. Store employees confirmed he was the

suspect. Tucker allegedly told police he had been taking items for the past two days and taking them to a nearby pawn shop to be exchanged for cash. He received $330 for 12 watches and two bracelets valued over $4,000. He was arrested for felony shoplifting and theft by deception.

they saw the suspect, identified as Tyrell Hasan Hover, 28, of Atlanta, enter the store three times, each time wearing the same logoed shirts and jacket. He was allegedly seen selecting bottles of vodka. He would take the bottles to the register and only pay for one of them, taking the others without paying.

valued between $2,800 and $4,000.

ran. She was quickly stopped and arrested for theft by shoplifting.

5 Milton vehicles entered MILTON, Ga. – Five residents in a neighborhood off Bethany Bend had their vehicles entered overnight Feb. 20. Residents on Serenade Court, Avensong Crossing, Aventide Lane and Silhouette Court all told police they left their vehicles unlocked overnight Feb. 19 and returned to them the following morning. All vehicles had been rummaged through, however few items of value were reported missing. Several GPS devices and loose change were taken.

Dirt bikes taken from Milton home MILTON, Ga. – Three dirt bikes were reported missing Feb. 21 from a Stonebrook Farms Drive home. The victim told police the bikes went missing sometime between Jan. 8 and Feb. 15. All three were parked in the victim’s yard beside a shed. All three are described as white and green Kawasaki KLX bikes

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Woman caught stealing food JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A 61-year-old Duluth woman was arrested Feb. 14 for shoplifting after allegedly trying to take $319 of goods from a local store. Store employees at the Whole Foods supermarket on State Bridge Road told police they saw Judith A. Wiltshire, 61, of Duluth, fill her shopping cart with food and goods, placing the items in bags to make it look like she had taken them through the register. She then left the store without paying for the goods. Wiltshire was charged with shoplifting.

Why steal hot dogs but no buns? ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Stealing two packets of hot dogs is still a crime, as one Roswell woman found out Feb. 18. Sanncha Dareus, 37, of Raintree Drive, Roswell, was spotted by employees of the Haynes Bridge Road Publix store picking up two packets of hot dogs. She then walked to another aisle where she allegedly placed the hot dogs into her purse then tried to leave the store. When she was approached by employees, Dareus allegedly

Don’t lose license then drive from court ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Roswell man was arrested Feb. 18 after he drove away from court after having his driver’s license revoked. According to police, Jose Nunez, 24, of Park Ridge Lane, Roswell, was told by the city solicitor not to drive away after the court revoked his license. Then the solicitor and police watched as Nunez got into his car and began to drive away. He was stopped and arrested for driving without a license as well as contempt of court.

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PUBLIC SAFETY

►► Neil Nazaam Gomes, 29, of

Misty Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 6 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Susan Young Wernsman, 33, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 6 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and suspended license.

was arrested Feb. 13 on Jones Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI, failure to maintain lane and improper stopping.

Drug arrests ►► Clifford Cadet, 21, of

Barsham Way, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 9 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana. ►► Erick Michael Reyes, 26, of Hembree Forest Circle, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 10 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and display of license plates. ►► Shawn Glenn, 43, of Executive Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 10 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta

for possession of marijuana and headlight requirements. ►► Krunal Das, 18, of Ketton Way, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 11 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, failure to maintain lane and brake light violation. ►► John Patrick Glancy, 22, of Hydrangea Court, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 5 on Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta for possession of

marijuana. ►► Joshuwa Bryan Ellis, 24, of Chickamauga was arrested Feb. 13 on Westside Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and display of license plates. ►► John William Upshaw, 43, of Brookside Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 9 on Jones Bridge Road in Johns Creek for possession of marijuana and headlight requirements.

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Suwanee was arrested Feb. 7 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and failure to use due care. ►► Layne Michael Gosnell, 43, of Shepherds Pond, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 7 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, no license and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Tarra Webb Nix, 39, of Sherry Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 10 on Deerfield Parkway in Milton for DUI and open container. ►► Julie Tisdale Penrose, 38, of Millwick Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 10 on Morton Road in Johns Creek for DUI. ►► Julie Sherwin Evans, 42, of Coleman Street, Roswell,

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NEWS

4 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Johns Creek schedules rec events for disabled Kick off T-ball starts March 15; family picnic scheduled May 10 By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Newtown Recreation Director Kirk Franz has announced Newtown Recreation will begin offering recreational opportunities for people with disabilities and begins with Batter Up Tee Ball Saturday, March 15. “Newtown Recreation has had a tee-ball program for children in the autism spectrum for a couple of years, but we as the city have not done anything directly for them until this year. We are partnering with them and want to re-introduce the Batter Up Tee Ball program,” Franz said. “Then Saturday, May 10, we are doing a couple things for the disabled community. First is a kickoff Summer Picnic along with the Johns Creek Civitans Club. We are inviting all Johns Creek families with a member who has a disability. “That will let us get know some of the families who live in Johns Creek and determine what the needs are. We want to

Misra: Continued from Page 1 Council meetings, and I do not see people from minority backgrounds attending. We have so many moving here from foreign countries, especially from China and India and I do not see them participating. “I go to every meeting at the Johns Creek Community Association, Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, and I don’t see them there. We have so many here who are affluent and not involved in civic life,” Misra

Newtown Recreation will begin offering recreational opportunities for people with disabilities and begins with Batter Up Tee Ball Saturday, March 15. get folks on a mailing list and stay in touch with them.” The picnic includes free food, music, activities and fun,

said. He would advocate for more international programs for the international community in Johns Creek – on their customs, religion and religion. “That will make them feel more welcome. Then we can recruit them to participate more in community life. I have done some programs for the Indian and Korean communities at the Spruill Oaks Library,” he said. Misra says they should take steps to become more involved, but it helps if they receive an invitation. He also supports the economic development efforts of

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but participants must pre-register. Registration for the picnic begins April 1. What Franz really wants is

to get a handle on the number of families

See EVENTS, Page 5

The Arun Misra file Age: 62 Occupation: Retired college professor and businessman Family: Wife Jay, 3 children and 6 grandchildren Education: Doctorate microbiology and genetic engineering Civic organizations: Rotary Club of Johns Creek, Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, Indian Business Association, Atlanta Botanical Gardens. the Chamber of Commerce and Johns Creek Advantage to improve the city tax digest. The city’s commercial spaces are underused, Misra said. Another major goal of the city should be to attract a college or university campus within Johns Creek. This would improve the quality of life in the city. Another longer range project should be a cultural arts center. The city has an arts center and an orchestra, but these are in private facilities or rent them. “We want to create opportunities for people to not only live here but work here and enjoy life here,” Misra said.

We want to create opportunities for people to not only live here but work here and enjoy life here.” ARUN MISRA Johns Creek City Council Candidate

NEWS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 5

Events:

City recreation events for residents with disabilities

Continued from Page 4

Batter-up Tee Ball

Johns Creek’s Adaptive Recreation Program is also adding family/youth bocce ball for families of residents with disabilities. “We’re scheduling some games Saturday mornings at Park Place Senior Services in Newtown Park. It is all about having interaction and having the experience of being there,” Franz said. Not only will it be an opportunity to meet other parents, but they will also be introduced to All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD), a support group for older adults 18 to 45. “Now that those folks are no longer part of the school system, we don’t want them to fall through the cracks,” Franz said. JC Recreation sees AADD as an established group that can provide opportunities and activities to interact with one another. The city will partner with AADD as well through the spring and the summer. “What really want to do is to get people gathering together at our parks who are in this population. Then we will let them tell us what they want. This is just the start of something that grows over the next several years,” Franz said.

Dates: Saturdays, March 15 – May 3 Location: Newtown Park Time: TBD Fee: Free (Players should provide their own baseball glove) Ages: 4–8 years old within the autism spectrum (age as of Sept. 1, 2013) Registration and info: 678-297-2662 or www.NewtownRec.com

Saturday Family Bocce Ball

Dates: Summer and fall with specific dates to be determined. Location: Newtown Park bocce ball courts next to Park Place. Time: TBD Fee: Free Ages: All families with members with a disability are welcome. (This is a family participation program. “Drop-offs” are not allowed.) Registration and info: 678-512-3200 or Kirk.Franz@JohnsCreekGA.gov

The purpose of the Adaptive Recreation Program is to expose participants to new experiences, raise self-esteem and promote community involvement through Batter-up Tee Ball, bocce ball and other social events. The programs and events are free. “We’re trying to expand our programs to include as many residents as possible,” said Franz. “People with disabilities typically don’t have as many opportunities to play

Summer Kick-Off Picnic

Date: Saturday, May 10 Location: Newtown Park – Park Place Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ages: All people with disabilities and their family members are welcome. Fee: Free. You must pre-register in order to participate. Registration begins April 1. Registration and info: 678-512-3200 or Kirk.Franz@JohnsCreekGA.gov

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with others. Bocce ball is easy to play. You don’t have to be experienced to enjoy it. It’s not physically demanding, and it’s fun.” All About Developmental Disabilities will operate the young adults program, which starts April 15. Batter-up Tee Ball is a volunteer and parent-led program designed to teach boys and girls within the autism spectrum the fundamentals of T-ball in a non-competitive

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atmosphere. Players learn to catch, throw and hit during the one-hour sessions. The Summer Kick-off Picnic for families who have an individual with a disability is scheduled for May 10. The picnic includes free food, music, activities and fun, but participants must pre-register. Registration for the picnic begins April 1. Newtown Park is at 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek.

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6 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Zone: Continued from Page 1

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addressing the “hole” in the signage for the school. They were upset when they went to traffic court and were not allowed to “explain” the situation. Noelen said he was “completely surprised” when he got a ticket. “I am a big advocate for following the speed limits, especially at schools. But coming down the street, I passed an ‘End School Zone’ sign. I had no idea when I turned [right] onto State Bridge that I re-entered the school zone,” Noelen said. When he retraced his steps, he found that the flashing light on State Bridge is at the intersection that forces traffic turning northbound onto State Bridge and is fixed in front of a “yield” lane that arcs about 100 degrees to feed Kimball traffic into State Bridge. That Kimball traffic must stare in the opposite direction of the flashing sign to look for oncoming traffic. Johns Creek Communications Manager Doug Nurse said the city was diligent in erecting another sign on Kimball Bridge near the intersection that now instructs traffic that a right turn onto State Bridge Road is

entering the Ocee school zone again. “We are looking at additional options as well. The signs are placed appropriately and legally. But we are willing to go beyond that. There are discussions about lettering the Kimball turn lane on the pavement to say ‘Entering School Zone,’ and may repeat that on State Bridge Road,” Nurse said. Just erecting more signs is not always a good measure, Nurse said. Too many signs just add to visual clutter and get tuned out. That is why existing signage flashes yellow. The city is also considering petitioning the Georgia Department of Transportation to allow the city to extend the school zone through the Kimball-State Bridge intersection. That would allow city to eliminate the gap, Nurse said. “Once we were aware there was a problem, the city took steps,” Nurse said. However, that would mean moving several signs. City Solicitor William Riley said the citizens don’t have the option “to explain” the situation in traffic court. Their initial appearance is similar to an arraignment. “They can plead guilty, not guilty or no contest. They can have a conference with me and I might reduce the charges. But all they want to do is talk to the judge in the hopes of getting a dismissal,” Riley said.

“First, the judge does not have the authority to dismiss a case,” he said. “If they want to challenge the ticket, they have to plead and then come back before the judge.” The anonymous citizen said he did not have the time to come back at a later date. “I hoped to sit down and show them in a straightforward way they have a problem. But they don’t want to do that. They just want to collect the fines,” he said. Riley said that is not true. But there are procedures that must be followed. “My job is to run the court efficiently,” he said. “They don’t get to sit down with the judge and discuss the case. “If we allowed everyone who didn’t see the sign to get off, we would be letting a lot of people off very quickly,” Riley said. City Councilman Lenny Zaprowski and Mayor Mike Bodker said they would into it. Contacted again, Zaprowski said he was satisfied the city was responding. “The idea isn’t to write a bunch of tickets. The idea is to get people to slow down. So it is our job to make sure people understand they need to slow down,” Zaprowski said. “What we are after is to protect the children when they are coming and leaving school.” Zaprowski said he would check to see that they “solve the problem.”

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COMMUNITY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 7

Local restaurant says goodbye to mascot By SHUBHI TANGRI news@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – On Sunday, Feb. 23, RosaMia Italian Restaurant’s staff bid farewell to one of their most special family members. The 4-yearold Pomeranian showed up at their back door and had become the restaurant’s mascot. Although he was originally named Nicholas, workers at RosaMia Italian Restaurant on Jones Bridge Road decided to give him their own personal nickname as Carli, named for the late husband of owner Rosa Bitussi, who passed away about 18 months ago. “I truly felt like Carli was sent for a reason to RosaMia. He was such a distracter from everything going on after my husband passing away,” Bitussi said. Carli was found in March 2013 behind the restaurant in a scrap yard where he had been living in a bunker he had dug for himself. “When we first found him, he was very skittish,” Bitussi said. “At first, he wouldn’t come near us. But as time progressed, he began eating out of

Economy: Continued from Page 1

But one third of the jobs created were in retail trade and hospitality, sectors that consist mostly of low-paying jobs.” RAJEEV DHAWAN Director of the GSU Economic Forecasting Center.

only 2.6 percent. Digging into the causes of sluggishness in capital investment, Dhawan cites stalled manufacturing in China. “China has induced a slowdown in emerging markets and suppliers in developed countries. The ding to corporate

our hands. We were never able to pet him though.” The restaurant itself subsidized all the food costs for Carli. They provided Carli with high-end products like Pedigree dog food and treats. “He would sleep all day and then around five or six in the evening, he would be anticipating us. We would either feed him dog food or our restaurant’s meat balls, which were his favorite,” Bitussi said. Someone from the RosaMia staff would even come on a Sunday, when the restaurant was closed, to specially feed Carli. “He was very well fed and cared after.” Bitussi said. “He was a very grateful dog.” As the year progressed, Carli became an important aspect of the restaurant. “He slowly became our restaurant’s mascot. Customers would come in and ask where Carli was,” she said. However, as the winter season rolled by, the staff members and Bitussi’s son feared for the dog’s health and decided to rescue him. “We sedated Carli so he would immediately fall asleep

when he returned to his bunker. Then my son dug through Carli’s little hideout to rescue him.” she said. “He refused to leave until we had rescued Carli.” Eventually, Mia and her son took him to a vet and considered formally adopting Carli. “All the staff members at RosaMia were willing to chip in for the vet’s fee,” she said, “and we let Carli live in our garage until the appointment.” At the vet, it was discovered that Carli was in excellent shape, health-wise, and even three pounds overweight, which was fortunate considering he had to weather the cold seasons. Also, a microchip was found and Carli’s rightful owner was contacted. Carli was a rescue dog even before RosaMia’s staff found him; he went home with his rightful owner on Sunday, Feb. 23 where he now lives with another dog and cat. “The owner was very grateful and emotional at first when taking him back.” Bitussi said. “We sometimes feel a void, but we at least know that Carli is warm now.”

confidence is caused by less than robust sales. For the 30 companies in the Dow Jones Index that I track, revenue growth has become weaker and weaker over the past two years,” Dhawan said. Another ongoing concern of Dhawan’s is the quality of job growth, which he says is a contributing factor to weak income growth. “In 2013, the economy created jobs at a pace of 194,000 per month. On paper, this performance seems great,” he said. “But one third of the jobs created were in retail trade and hospitality, sectors that consist mostly of low-paying jobs. “These are not the sort of jobs that will produce income growth,” Dhawan said. Job growth will fall to 147,000 jobs a month in 2014, he predicts. A continuation of weak investment, a global economic malaise and stock market volatility will be the cause of lackluster job growth. While 2014 will not be the “break-out year” one would like to see, Dhawan says the trend is slowly rising. In 2015, Dhawan expects new job growth to spurt to 186,000 jobs per month (2.3 million for the year)

and 205,000 jobs per month (2.4 million for the year) in 2016. More good news is that an anticipated jump in housing starts will trend upward from 1.032 in 2014 and rise to 1.228 million in 2015 and still further to 1.301 million units in 2016. Tensions in the Middle East have abated to a simmer, but are bringing some stability to oil prices. Dhawan said that oil will hover above the $97 per barrel mark in 2014, but oil prices will actually fall to $93 per barrel despite more robust growth in 2015 as more domestic oil comes on line.

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SCHOOLS

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set for new school year NORTH FULTON, Ga – Kindergarten and new student registration for the 2014-2015 school year will be held April 30 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and May 1 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all elementary schools in Fulton County. During these two days, parents of incoming kindergarten students, as well as new elementary students entering school in August, can register their children for the upcoming school year. Parents should register their child at the school the child will attend in the fall. A list of documents needed for registration is posted on the school website, www.fultonschools.org. A notarized affidavit of residence is also mandatory for all students. For parents interested in pre-kindergarten, a limited number of spaces are available at elementary schools in North Fulton. Pre-K registration dates vary by school and enrollment is done through a lottery system. Parents also can visit the

Pre-K registration School

Date(s)

Times

Alpharetta

March 12

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Barnwell

April 28-29

Findley Oaks

April 15

Hembree Springs

April 1

8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 8 to 11 a.m.; 1 to 5 p.m. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hillside

May 1 May 2

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Esther Jackson

April 2

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Manning Oaks

April 24-25

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Medlock Bridge

March 24 – April 4 8 a.m. to 3 p.m

Mimosa

March 27

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Roswell North

April 15

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Shakerag

April 8-24

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

State Bridge Crossing

March 24-26 March 27

7:30 to 10 a.m. 3 to 5 p.m.

Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning’s website, www.decal.ga.gov, to deter-

mine the availability of other privately funded pre-kindergarten program providers.

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Fulton County high schools honored for AP achievement Exams are used as an indicator of college success By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – High Schools in Fulton County are making the grade when it comes to preparing students for the rigors of a college education. The Georgia Department of Education recently recognized 14 high schools in the Fulton County School System for achievement on the Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken last spring. These schools were named “AP Honor Schools,” a distinction reserved for those high schools that offer students the most challenging curriculum. “Advanced Placement classes give our students a greater opportunity to grow outside of the traditional high school curriculum,” said Fulton Superintendent Robert Avossa. “This added rigor not only stimulates their learning but helps prepare them for the extensive, fast-paced courses they’ll experience in a college environment.” AP classes are collegelevel courses available for high school students covering 34 subjects from calculus to Mandarin Chinese to macroeconomics. Each spring, the College Board administers AP exams, with scores ranging from 1 to 5. Students who receive a 3, 4 or 5 on AP exams are eligible to receive college credit or may be exempt from some introductory college courses. Successful completion of AP courses and exams is often cited as an indicator for college readiness and success. In Georgia, AP Honor Schools are named in five categories based on the results of 2013 AP classes and exams. The STEM categories recognize high schools with achievement in AP science, technology, engineering or mathematics courses. High schools in North Fulton were recognized in most of the categories. AP STEM Schools (Recognizes schools with students testing in at least two AP math courses and two AP science courses.) • Alpharetta High • Cambridge High • Centennial High • Chattahoochee High • Johns Creek High • Milton High • Northview High • Roswell High AP STEM Achievement

Schools (Recognizes schools that have at least 40 percent of math and science test-takers earning scores of 3 or higher.) • Alpharetta High • Cambridge High • Centennial High • Chattahoochee High • Johns Creek High • Milton High • Northview High • Roswell High AP Merit Schools (Recognizes schools with at least 20 percent of students taking AP exams and with at least half of those exams receiving a score of 3 or higher.) • Alpharetta High • Cambridge High • Centennial High • Chattahoochee High • Johns Creek High • Milton High • Northview High • Roswell High Fulton Science Academy High School was the only school in Fulton County to be named an AP Challenge School, a distinction that recognizes schools with fewer than 900 students offering AP classes in core content areas.

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SCHOOLS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 9

Behind the numbers: AP Results for Fulton Schools FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – Fulton County Advanced Placement scores remain higher than the state and nation based on the results from the 2013 AP exams given in the spring. In addition, the number of exams taken has increased by nearly 70 percent over the past five years, outpacing the growth in Georgia and across the nation. Meanwhile, average scores on the exams are also rising at a rate higher than the state and nation. In Fulton County, 67 percent of AP exams received a passing score of 3 or higher, with 42 percent receiving top scores of either 4 or 5. Fulton Schools reported 10,777 AP exams passed in 2013. Fulton students scored exceptionally well in Calculus BC with 92 percent scoring a 3 or higher, and 75 percent of scores in the 4 and 5 range. The AP Statistics exam also is seeing higher pass rates each year, with 40 percent of students scoring in the 4 and 5 range – an increase of 8 percent over the previous year. In Georgia, the 10 most popular AP exams are United States History, English Language and Composition, World History, English Literature and Composition, United States Government and Politics, Psychology, Calculus AB, Statistics, Macroeconomics and Biology. — Candy Waylock

“Drive” your business and “ace” your competition when you sponsor and participate in the Johns Creek Chamber Annual Golf & Tennis Classic!

a comedy by Pat Cook

MARCH 31, 2014 Event held at Country Club of the South

New Sponsorship Opportunity for 2014 The “Hole” Package: $1,000 Your branding on tee box, fairway and cart path • Opportunity to set up a display on the tee box • Only 12 available • Add a Foursome for just $500

Silent Auction • Rafﬂe • Goody Bag Donations Appreciated! This is a great way to promote your business!

Mayhem and hilarity abound when Uncle George summons his greedy kin to his lakefront cabin for a fun weekend.

Numerous sponsorhip opportunities are still available. To secure yours, please contact Maria Rose at mrose@johnscreekchamber.com or (770) 495-0545

Photos by Mike Glatzer

March 7th – March 30th Friday & Saturday Nights At 8:00 pm & Sunday Matinees at 2pm No show Sunday, March 9 Adults - $15 Kids 12 and under, Seniors 60 and over - $12 770-663-8989 for tickets or online at www.act1theater.com. ACT1 Theater is located inside Alpharetta Presbyterian Church 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Produced by special arrangement with Eldridge Publishing Company

Title Sponsor:

View registration and sponsorship details at JohnsCreekChamber.com

10 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Emory JC Hospital receives Chest Pain Center accreditation JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Emory Johns Creek Hospital has received Chest Pain Center accreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care. Hospitals that receive accreditation meet or exceed qualityof-care measures in patients who arrive with symptoms of a heart attack. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the U.S., with 600,000 people dying annually of heart disease. More than 5 million Americans visit hospitals each year with chest pain. The Society of Cardiovas-

cular Patient Care’s goal is to significantly reduce the death rate of these patients by teaching the public to recognize and react to the early symptoms of a possible heart attack, reduce the time it takes to receive treatment and increase the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment. “Heart patients at Emory Johns Creek Hospital can expect a continuum of care from the very start of the patient’s symptoms until discharge from the hospital,” said Dr. Jeffrey Hershey, both chairman of the Division of Cardiology and

chief of medicine at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. “This includes care starting with emergency dispatch to EMS in the field to the emergency department to the cath lab to the observation unit to cardiac rehab and through discharge from the facility,” he said. “We have enhanced the quality of care for cardiac patients and are committed to these higher standards of care.” To achieve Chest Pain Center accreditation, the hospital engaged in rigorous evaluation

by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care for its ability to assess, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing symptoms that indicate heart disease or a heart attack. Processes have been put in place that meet strict criteria aimed at: Detecting and treating symptoms that may lead to a heart attack, thus avoiding a heart attack and therefore avoiding heart damage. Providing the community with education and information regarding early heart attack care to improve wellness and the quality of life. “It took a team of dedicated people across many hospital departments and services to

achieve Chest Pain Center accreditation at Emory Johns Creek Hospital,” said Craig McCoy, chief executive officer of Emory Johns Creek Hospital. “We are excited about this designation and know it will benefit many patients during the critical and early stages of a heart attack and throughout their recovery.” Emory Johns Creek Hospital is the third hospital within the Emory Healthcare system to achieve Chest Pain Center accreditation. Both Emory University Hospital and Emory University Hospital Midtown are accredited Chest Pain Centers. Hospitals must reapply for their designation every three years.

SCHOOLS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 11

Mill Springs Academy collects 7 tons of food Helps Atlanta Community Food Bank ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Mill Springs Academy students, staff and their families collected and donated 15,127 pounds – more than 7 tons – of food for the annual canned food drive benefiting the Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB). According to the ACFB, the food Mill Springs Academy collected will provide for 12,605 meals. There is a little bit of friendly competition among the schools that spurs on the food drive. Communication Arts School was the clear winner between the five schools on campus, having gathered more than 6,000 cans on their own. But the entire Mill Springs community is proud to be able to support the Atlanta Community Food Bank in this way. “This is proof that small schools can do big things,” said Headmaster Robert Moore.

VARSITY BRIEFS Send us your news! Email to news@northfulton.com More Info: 770-442-3278

Sammy Mishkin, Andrew Guest and C.J. Espinosa show off just a few of the food drive barrels from across the Mill Springs campus.

the Patriot Football Conference First Team for running back and defensive back. He is the son of Karen Slaton-Dixon of Suwanee.

versity of Michigan. Lavender majored in music composition and will begin pursuing a graduate degree in 2014.

Ashland University

Randolph-Macon Academy

University of Michigan

FRONT ROYAL, Va. – Kevin C. Slaton, a senior at RandolphMacon Academy, has received the Coaches’ Award in varsity football for the 2013 fall sports season. He was also named to

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Zachary Lavender of Alpharetta graduated with high honors and a bachelor’s degree in music from the School of Music, Theatre and Dance at the Uni-

ASHLAND, Ohio – Kelly Rodgers of Roswell received a master’s degree in American history and government from Ashland University at the winter commencement ceremony on Dec. 14.

See VARSITY, Page 33

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12 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

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Early morning fire destroys offices By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com

The building was still smoldering later that morning.

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The silos of Crabapple were shrouded in smoke Feb. 28 after a nearby building was destroyed by fire. Around 3:30 a.m., a witness called 911 about a large fire at the Covenant Professional Building at 12385 Crabapple Road in Alpharetta. Alpharetta and Milton fire units were quickly dispatched. The first unit on scene was a Milton unit because one of their fire stations is nearby. They observed the building on

fire with flames and smoke extending approximately 50 feet in height from the roof. More firefighters from Milton and Alpharetta arrived to help with the fire, which engulfed the building. Approximately 25 firefighters battled the blaze. The Covenant Professional Building’s roof collapsed and the structure is very heavily damaged. The building contained several businesses, including a dental practice and Roswell Pediatrics Center’s Crabapple offices. The cities of Alpharetta and Milton public safety services have agreements in place and often assist each other as Alpharetta 911 dispatches the nearest police or fire unit between both cities to ensure those in need get help quickly regardless of boundaries. “Our automatic aid agreement worked well,” said Milton Fire Chief Robert Edgar. “Half the firefighters there were from Milton.” Edgar said the building was a total loss. The second floor was a complete loss due to fire, he said, and, while the first floor had little fire

damage, it sustained severe water damage. Roswell Pediatric Center has offices in Alpharetta and Cumming along with the Crabapple location and has served the community for more than 20 years. The lost building housed about 70 employees. There were no injuries reported, as the fire occurred after hours. “Things are pretty chaotic,” said Lea Vickery, front office supervisor at the Alpharetta office. “But we are getting through it. We are a large family that comes together in these times. “The Milton-Alpharetta fire departments have been absolutely amazing, going over and beyond,” Vickery said. “We’ve heard so much from the community since the fire. Patients and other pediatricians in the area have reached out to us.” Vickery said employees are in the process of routing patients to their other offices. Due to records being kept electronically, no information was lost in the fire, she said.

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The Covenant Professional Building in Alpharetta was the site of a large fire in the early morning hours of Feb. 28.

COMMUNITY

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

Centennial’s Whitaker headed to West Point JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – U.S. Rep. Tom Price (R-Ga.) personally notified Centennial High School senior Will Whitaker that he has earned an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. Price and Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.) nominated Whitaker. Out of thousands of students applying each year, only 1,100 freshmen are accepted to West Point. Applicants must go through a rigorous application process that includes congressional nomination, both medical and physical exams, top-percentile SAT and ACT scores and top-tier class rank in school. Candidates must also have proven leadership roles in athletics and extracurricular activities, academic honors for extraordinary performance, exhaustive writing assignments and an interview by a congressionally appointed team. Whitaker will report to the U.S. Military Academy this summer to begin orientation and training.

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14 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

The 2014 officers of Amanda Stokes Tent No. 2, from left are Loriann White, Paulette Snoby, Jan Eastman, Anne Gunnin, Maribeth Brannen, Jill Webster, Linda Hartung, Beth Finley, Marguerite Dyal, Cathy Hellming and Jean Vrendenburg.

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

Daughters of Union create Alpharetta chapter ALPHARETTA, Ga. – While most of the “Yankee” women of Alpharetta’s new Daughters of Union Veterans were born in the South, live in Georgia and speak with a Southern accent, their heritage traces back to a Union Civil War soldier or sailor. Who are these women? They are daughters, granddaughters and great granddaughters of honorably discharged Union soldiers and sailors known as the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War (DUVCW). This organization was created on May 30, 1885 in Ohio and endorsed by the Grand Army of the Republic in 1900. All chapters, known as tents, are named for Union nurses who provided care to both Union and Confederate soldiers during the war. Alpharetta’s tent is named for Amanda Stokes,

who nursed the Union Army for almost five years serving at Stones River, Murfreesboro, Chattanooga, Chickamauga and Nashville with Gen. Joseph Hooker’s army. She later became the matron for the Ohio Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphans’ Home in Xenia, Ohio. The Amanda Stokes Detached Tent No. 2 of Alpharetta meets four times a year at the Country Club of the South. As a service organization, they support the Department of Veterans Affairs’ medical centers and homes, perform projects to preserve Civil War battlefields and monuments and participate in national patriotic ceremonies. Those interested in learning more can contact President Maribeth Brannen at Maribethq45@comcast.net. —Jonathan Copsey

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 15

Howard Gospel Choir comes to Roswell ROSWELL, Ga. – The renowned Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University, Washington, D.C., will perform in concert at Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Sunday, March 16. Founded in the fall of 1968, Howard Gospel is the first collegiate choir of its kind in the world. As a result, the choir has pioneered an international legacy in gospel music ministry. The choir boasts an active roster of 70-plus singers that consists of students and alumni from Howard University as well as others from the surrounding community. In addition to distinguished professionals in every imaginable discipline, past members of this award-winning ensemble include Grammy Award-winners Richard Smallwood, Coré Cotton (member of Sounds of Blackness), and Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark of the legendary Clark Sisters, as well as R&B star Ángela Winbush. Exceptional musicians have always been instrumental in shaping the Howard Choir’s unique sound to embrace both contemporary and traditional gospel, church hymns, Negro spirituals and classically arranged anthems. For the past four decades, HGC has set a high standard as a premier performing arts ensemble. The choir has been privileged to sing at a wide variety of venues in and around the greater Washington, D.C.,

If you go What: Howard Gospel Choir When: Sunday, March 16, 4 to 6 p.m. Where: Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 888 Zion Circle, Roswell Cost: Free metropolitan area, including the White House, the U.S. Capitol, DAR Constitution Hall, Washington National Cathedral, the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Smithsonian Museum of American History. The choir has toured nationally and internationally, including Canada, Italy, Denmark, Slovakia, Sweden and the Caribbean island of Barbados. Most recently, the choir toured the European country of Montenegro at the special invitation of the U.S. Embassy in Podgorica. In additional to headlining concerts, choir members also conduct workshops teaching various vocal exercises and discussing the history of gospel music. From the outset, the Howard Gospel Choir has been in constant demand. The choir has shared the stage with a number of musical luminar-

The Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University in Washington, D.C., will perform in concert at Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Roswell. ies including Tony Bennett, Stevie Wonder, Fantasia and Patti LaBelle. Additionally, the Howard Choir has performed for President Barack Obama. Notwithstanding its legacy of excellence and the vast accomplishments since its inception, the main objective remains the same: to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ through song. The choir’s purpose and passion is to serve Christ with the choir’s musical

A British invasion

British cars take over downtown Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A friendly gathering of British cars will be in the delightful setting of downtown Alpharetta on Milton Avenue and Main Street on Saturday, March 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During this free day out, visitors will see 100 British cars including a Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Lotus Esprit, MG, Austin-Healey, Morgan, Triumph, McLaren, Peeler, Land Rover, MINI, Sunbeam, Jensen and DeLorean. Shop around with local vendors and participate in arts and crafts. Have a glass of wine or beer and browse the unique cars while listening to the music of the Big Chicken Beatles Tribute Band, which will play from noon to 2 p.m. Grab some food at one of the food trucks that

If you go What: British Car Fair When: March 29, 2014, 10 a.m.-4 p.m; Beatles tribute band 12-2 p.m. Where: Historic Downtown Alpharetta

will include the Marlay Mobile and Australian Bakery food trucks. “We thoroughly enjoyed having the British cars take over our downtown last year and are excited to see what the event has in store for us this year,” said Janet Rodgers, president and chief executive officer of the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We expect the event to capture the attention of car enthusiasts from around the Southeast.” This is a rain or shine

The British car fair will take over downtown Alpharetta March 29, with dozens of unique cars from British makers and collectors. event. For car registration and vendor information, contact Ray Gilbert at rgilbert@empireevents.net. —Jonathan Copsey

gifts bringing peace, restoration, healing and inspiration to all who will lend their ears and

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ibbs Gardens’ Daffodil Festival bursts on the scene as more than 50 acres of blooming daffodils create an unforgettable feast for the senses from March 1 through April 15. Millions of daffodils — 20 Plan your group million blossoms in visit now! 60 varieties — flower across sprawling hills and fields to paint a “gold and silver” panorama Southern Living calls “the most spectacular display of blooms this side of Holland.” Experience nature’s own spring bouquet: daffodils, forsythia, quince and spirea canopied by hundreds of blossoming white dogwood and flowering cherry trees. And, that’s just the beginning. Gibbs Gardens Seasons of Color are a feast for the senses all year long. Explore our 300-acre estate graced by 220 acres of landscaped gardens and mature forest, springfed ponds, streams and waterfalls.

GIBBS GARDENSTM 1987 Gibbs Drive Ball Ground, GA 30107 www.gibbsgardens.com 770-893-1880

GI B B S GA R D E N S SEASONS OF COLOR

16 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Sponsored by

This little instant ticket produces about $76 billion on a global basis in terms of sales and generates money for good causes. JIM KENNEDY, executive vice president and chief executive of Scientific Games Lottery Group

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Scientific Games expands instant game operations Technology to create 40 jobs By ALDO NAHED aldo@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Instant lottery game maker Scientific Games is adding the latest in advanced technology to scratch tickets. Called “Alpha P-7,” the advanced manufacturing technology for instant lottery games was introduced at the Scientific Games’ Global Lottery Center of Excellence in South Forsyth on Feb. 24. Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal and Debbie Alford, president and chief executive officer of the Georgia Lottery Corporation, participated in a ribboncutting ceremony for the Alpha P-7 along with David Kennedy, president and CEO of Scientific Games, and Jim Kennedy (no relation to David), executive vice president and chief executive of Scientific Games Lottery Group. The newest component of the Scientific Games overall global manufacturing technology, Alpha P-7 offers flexibility in game design elements such as security, color, images and ticket sizes. “This paper holds unique patterns of prizes, play action, security applied by image-controlled ink jets, orchestrating billions of dots that link what’s on the front of this ticket to the unique barcode technology on the back of the ticket,” said Jim Kennedy. “After 30 years

of watching this process, I still am amazed every time I walk through it.” The additional manufacturing volume will add about 40 new jobs. “Job creation has been achieved by this partner,” said Deal. “We are now in the 21st year of the lottery program and it’s pointed out by the statistics as one of the most successful in the entire country, and maybe even the entire world.” Alpha P-7 is designed to manufacture instant games at 1,000 feet per minute, or about 53,000 secured lottery tickets per minute. Since creating the world’s very first secure instant scratch lottery game in Massachusetts in 1974, Scientific Games has produced technology, game content and customized program solutions for lotteries and regulated gaming organizations around the world. “This little instant ticket produces about $76 billion on a global basis in terms of sales and generates money for good causes,” Jim Kennedy said. “It’s so simple, it’s so easy and it’s fun.” Currently, Scientific Games designs and manufactures more than 3,500 instant lottery games annually at five technology facilities throughout the globe, including Atlanta, Montreal, Santiago, Beijing and Leeds, England. The company

PHOTOS BY ALDO NAHED/STAFF

From left, Debbie Alford, president and chief executive officer of Georgia Lottery Corporation, Rayna Casey, chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Georgia Lottery Corp., Gov. Nathan Deal, Jim Kennedy, executive vice president and chief executive of Scientific Games Lottery Group, and David Kennedy, chief executive officer of Scientific Games, during a ribbon cutting of Scientific Games’ new advanced manufacturing technology for lottery instant games called, “Alpha P-7.” provides technology, products or services in over 120 lottery jurisdictions worldwide, including nearly all U.S. lottery jurisdictions. Scientific Games has been Georgia Lottery’s primary instant game provider since the lottery’s inception in 1993. Last year, Georgia Lottery instant games had a recordbreaking $2.6 billion in sales and $927 million going to education programs that include the HOPE Scholarship and pre-kindergarten. “That is a significant contribution to these two programs,” said Alford. “Since its inception, 1.6 million students have benefitted from HOPE and over 1.4 million 4-year-olds have attended lottery funded pre-K.”

Two large reams of scratch off tickets which utilize advanced technology.

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JOBS »

Children’s Healthcare Foundation appoints new trustees

TopGolf to hire 450 workers for new Alpharetta facility ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A global golf entertainment company plans to hire more than 450 workers for a new location in Alpharetta. The TopGolf chain plans to open a 60,000-squarefoot facility in May at 10900 Westside Parkway in Alpharetta. TopGolf is now accepting applications for bartenders, servers, kitchen staff, bussers, food runners and hosts/hostesses. TopGolf will also hold a series of auditions next month that will include team-building activities, relay races with serving trays, a dance competition, “XFactor-style” interviews and an “Idea Factory,” where applicants plan a special event for TopGolf. The recruitment days will be held at the new TopGolf site from March 22 to April 13 on Saturdays, Sundays and two Mondays. Applicants can apply online at www.topgolf.com/

HEALTH »

Modern OB/GYN expands office in John Creek JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Modern OB/GYN, a comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology practice, announced the expansion of their office in Johns Creek. Drs. John and Ingrid Reyes are a board-certified husband and wife obstetrics and gynecological team. Their philosophy is to provide medical care while maintaining communication, up-to-date education and compassion for their patients. Modern OB/GYN is located at 10692 Medlock Bridge Road, Suite 100-A in Johns Creek. For more, visit www.reyesobgyn.com or call 404446-2496.

BIS Benefits named top healthiest employer ALPHARETTA, Ga. – BIS Benefits has been named to the Top 10 Healthiest Employers list of the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 17

TOPGOLF.COM

A rendering of the Top Golf facility in Alpharetta.

careers. The company estimates it will serve 450,000 visitors its first year of operation, with a 10-year economic impact of more than $264.5 million. For more, visit www.topgolf.com/alpharetta. BIS, 10745 Westside Way, Suite 250, in Alpharetta, hosts “Lunch and Learns” for employees to learn about nutrition, coping with stress and other health topics. Break room snacks offer healthier choices; reimbursements for gym memberships and exercise classes are available and employees are equipped to fight the spread of germs. The approach has been popular with points being earned for eating balanced meals, creating healthy hydration habits and increasing physical activity. Employees can convert the points to dollars in order to make purchases that support healthier lifestyles. For more information, visit www.bisbenefits. com.

Resurgens Orthopaedics welcomes Dr. Peak CUMMING, Ga. – Resurgens Orthopaedics has added surgeon Dr. E. Louis Peak to its practice. Peak joins Resurgens as one of the first fellowship-trained total joint surgeons north of the Atlanta Perimeter. He is a graduate of Emory University’s School of Medicine and his areas of expertise include adult reconstructive surgery of the hip, knee PEAK and shoulder; hip, knee and shoulder joint replacement; total joint revisions; and computer/ robotic-assisted surgery. Peak will see patients at the Resurgens Cumming (1100 Northside-Forsyth Drive, Suite 340) and Roswell (1285 Hembree Road, Suite 200-A) offices. For more information, visit www.resurgens.com.

ATLANTA – The Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation announced the addition of nine new members to its Board of Trustees. The Children’s Foundation Board is charged with raising critical funds to help meet the growing needs of one of country’s leading, nonprofit pediatric health care systems. New trustees include Paul Bowers, president and chief executive officer of Georgia Power; Jack Cay IV, president of Palmer and Cay; Kristine Faulkner, vice president and general manager at Cox Communications; Dr. Jim Fortenberry, Children’s pediatrician-in-chief; Nick McKay, CEO of EnviroScent; John Montag, president and chief information officer of A. Montag and Associates; Alison Moran, CEO of RaceTrac Petroleum; Cameron Sherrill, community volunteer and former president of Friends; and Tyler Woolson, senior vice president and chief financial officer of GeorgiaPacific. In 2014, the Board of Trustees will focus its efforts on an annual gross fundraising goal of $61 million, including raising critical funds for Marcus Autism Center, Children’s at Hughes Spalding and childhood obesity prevention.

REAL ESTATE »

Berkshire Hathaway recognizes top 50 agents ATLANTA – At the inaugural awards luncheon of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties, President and CEO Dan Forsman presented the company’s most prestigious accolades to the top 50 agents and teams. The luncheon saluted the production of the firm’s 1,100 associates in its 22 offices spanning the greater Atlanta metro area, who have made Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Georgia Properties the leader in Georgia’s residential real estate arena. The Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented to Nan Willnow, who since 1991 has been one of the firm’s highest producing agents.

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Home sales in 2014 off to slow start

The Providence Group of Georgia, from left, David Grace, Stephen Fuller, Pete Jolly, Warren Jolly, Mike Smith, Jon Roby, Matt Hoffman and John Merder prepare to break ground on Bellmoore Park, a new Johns Creek community.

REAL ESTATE »

Providence Group breaks ground in Johns Creek Largest development in North Fulton in more than a decade JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Providence Group of Georgia officially broke ground on its newest community, Bellmoore Park. Located in Johns Creek, Bellmoore Park is the largest residential development to be started in the northern arc of Atlanta in more than a decade. “We officially signed the contract for this property in September 2012 and 18 months later we are excited to celebrate the groundbreaking of Bellmoore Park,” said Warren Jolly, president of the Providence Group of Georgia. “We have felt from the beginning that this property has the potential to be the most significant new community in the North Atlanta market and we know that in five years, Bellmoore Park is going to set a new standard of quality and attention to detail that all other communities will aspire to replicate.” The Providence Group of Georgia hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 20 at Bellmoore Park. Representatives from the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, city of Johns Creek and the news media joined in celebrating the occasion.

Upon completion, the 224-acre Bellmoore Park will feature more than 600 single-family homes priced from about $400,000s to more than $1 million. Homes at Bellmoore Park will showcase a wide variety of designs that appeal to home buyers looking for a luxurious, low-maintenance lifestyle. Bellmoore Park will also offer amenity areas located on the most pristine acres within the community. The centrally located, 9-acre amenity area will feature a spacious clubhouse with fitness center, expansive, manicured lawns for outdoor events, two pools and eight lighted tennis courts. The amenity plan also includes 4 acres of landscaped community parks and 50 acres of undisturbed natural areas. The entrance will be gated and will include a guard house for future community security. A team of architects including Stephen Fuller with Stephen Fuller Designs, David Grace with A Classical Studio and Bassenian Lagoni, an architectural firm from California worked on the project. “We are determined to develop the most innovative, livable and unique home designs the Atlanta market has seen in a generation,” Jolly said. “We are very excited to be working with such an amazing team of architects.” Visit www.bellmoorepark.com for more information.

The best year in home sales we’ve seen in years was 2013. For metro Atlanta, the average sales price for both single-family homes and townhomes/condos increased a whopping 26 percent. The big jump was due mainly to many parts of metro Atlanta declining much further than we witnessed in North Fulton and Forsyth County during the recession. In our area on the north side, we saw more modest price increases. Comparing 2014 to 2013, unit sales jumped 11 percent in North Fulton and 21 percent in Forsyth County. So it was a little surprising to see that so far, for 2014, home sales are down 14 percent in North Fulton and 12 percent in Forsyth County compared to the same period last year. I suppose we could blame it all on the Polar Vortex. It certainly didn’t help that we were all hunkered down for a large part of two different weeks. Our team is seeing a marked increase in activity since we’ve thawed, that’s for sure. But there is more to this story.

ROBERT STRADER

Local Realtor Keller Williams Realty

Inventory remains pretty low, keeping sellers in a strong position, but buyers remain very critical of price and condition. Buyers are willing to open their wallets and even pay more than asking price if a home is worth it, but the home has to hit all the marks. This should be very concerning to homeowners considering selling later this spring if they will be competing at the same price points as new construction. While inventory will increase seasonally as we head further into the year, demand may only be slightly higher than supply, which will allow buyers to continue being selective.

Winning back lost customers Are you losing customers at your small business? Are you scratching your head, wondering why? Are you trying to figure out how you can get lost customers back? Lost customers don’t have to be lost forever, but if you don’t have a plan of action to get them back, they very well might not return. The first and easiest step in winning back a lost customer is to try and find out why. Did they find another place to buy your product or service? Did they not like your customer service? Were your prices higher than your competitors? Asking a lost customer why they left is paramount to winning them back. Once you have determined the reasons your customer left, you need to put as much effort in getting them back as you did when you first got them as a customer. This could include reevaluating their needs, buying priorities or better understanding dozens of decision criteria that may have changed over time. Statistics say that you have a

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

much higher chance of winning back a previous customer versus attracting a new one. A customer who stops doing business with you was most likely dissatisfied with something at your small business. To get them back, you need to understand what the problem was, fix the problem and let the customer know it’s been fixed. One of the best ways to demonstrate your small business cares about its customers is to reacquire a lost customer. Over time, that lost customer may very well turn into your best customer.

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Submit your event online at northfulton.com com for ticket info.

RYAN PIERONI

Calendar Editor ryan@northfulton.com Submit your event to northfulton.com or email with photo to calendar@ northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC » SAXOPHONIST ZAC EVANS

Zac Evans is an Atlanta– based saxophonist and composer that focuses on the balance between versatility and personality. As a composer, Zac brings a personal voice to his songs that draws influence from the jazz tradition as well as modern styles including rock, hip–‐hop, and electronica. Zac has performed internationally with a variety of ensembles. 7 and 9 p.m. March 9. The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. Please vist thevelvetnote.com.

‘WEATHER ROCKS!’

Presented by the Center for Puppetry Arts, “Weather Rocks!” is a show for children 4 and older all about the weather. From a newsroom in the clouds, five energetic meteorologists rock out with tunes about rain, snow, hurricanes, sunshine and more. Show times vary. Through March 23. 1404 Spring St. Northwest, Atlanta. Please visit puppet.org for tickets.

‘ANNE OF GREEN GABLES’ AT THE DANCING GOAT THEATRE

Set in the early 1900s, on Prince Edward Island off the coast of Nova Scotia in Canada. The story depicts life of Edwardian times, and tells the story of Anne and her move to Green Gables. The story has all the elements of life: youth, age, families, joy, sorrow, hope, disappointment, love and rivalry. Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 1 – 8. 10700 State Bridge Road, Suite 6, Johns Creek. Please call 770-772-0762 or visit performingartsnorth.org.a

ART » SOUTHEASTERN PASTEL SOCIETY EXHIBITION

Pastel Renaissance is a juried event that features more than 50 exquisite pastel paintings by members of the Southeastern Pastel Society. Paintings are available for purchase. Every Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. through March 7. Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek. Please call 770-623-8448 or visit johnscreekarts.org.

THEATER »

CHATTAHOOCHEE PRESENTS ‘GREASE’

Chattahoochee High School presents their spring musical, the timeless classic, “Grease,” based on the 1978 film. 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. March 6 – 9. 5230 Taylor Road, Johns Creek. Please call 770-521-7600 or email hoochtickets@gmail.

ACT1 THEATER'S ‘THE MONEY IN UNCLE GEORGE'S SUITCASE’

When Uncle George invites his whole family up for a weekend of fun at his rustic cabin, he actually wants them together so he can read his will. But between the bequeathing and his rambling stories, George drops the bomb that somewhere on the property is a suitcase holding four hundred and eighty thousand dollars. What follows is a hilarious farce of pettiness, slander, and greed. But George's gift is much more important than mere money, even though the relatives don't see it that way - at first. 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. March 7 - 30. 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. Please call 770-663-8989 or visit act1theater.com.

‘ON GOLDEN POND’

Presented by the awardwinning Gypsy Theatre Company, “On Golden Pond” tells the story of an elderly couple returning to their summer home for the 48th year and their

CALENDAR experiences there. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Through March 9. Please visit playhousecumming.com for ticket information.

‘FAUST’

The Atlanta Opera presents “Faust,” an operatic telling of the classic German legend. Sung in French with projected English translation, “Faust” tells the tale of an elderly scholar, dissatisfied with life, who makes a deal with the devil in exchange for magical powers. Show times vary. March 8, 11, 14 and 16. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta.

EVENTS »

GA. AQUARIUM PIRATE AND PRINCESS DAY

Pirate and Princess Day at the Georgia Aquarium will feature a day of fun activities for all ages. Kids 12 and under dressed as pirates or princesses will receive free admission with each paying adult. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. March 8. 225 Baker Street, Atlanta. Please call 404-581-4000 or visit georgiaaquarium.org.

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 19

food, amazing bands, and dancing at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. Come eat, drink and help cure Cystic Fibrosis. The exciting live and silent auctions will be packed with something for everyone, including trips, dining, adventure, jewelry, gift certificates and a raffle for the Triumph motorcycle. 7 – 11 p.m. March 8. Please call 678-297-0102 or visit shamrockinforacure.com for tickets.

‘EVENING OF HOPE’ GALA

The Evening of Hope Gala, hosted by the American Cancer Society is an event to honor local cancer survivors, and to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. Silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing, and other elegant activities provide a warm and inviting atmosphere for sponsors, guests, supporters and volunteers. 6 p.m. March 8. Country Club of the South, 9365 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek. Please visit ascevents.org for tickets.

JLA SHAMROCK 'N ROLL ROAD RACE 5K/10K

The Junior League of Atlanta's Annual Shamrock 'N Roll Race hits the streets of Atlantic Station. This is the 10th year for the race filled with fun for the whole family, with a 5k, 10k, and even a tot-trot for the little ones. 8 a.m. - Noon. March 9. 1380 Atlantic Drive Northwest, Atlanta. Please call 404-261-7799 or visit jlatlanta.org to register.

TOP FIVE EVENTS

GEORGIA DAFFODIL SOCIETY AT CNC

The Chattahoochee Nature Center will bask in the gold, yellow, white and pink glow of hundreds of daffodils for the American Daffodil Society Southeast Regional Daffodil Show. Noon – 5 p.m. March 8. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Please call 770-609-8010 or visit chattnaturecenter.org.

‘LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL’

A musical adaptation of the movie of the same name, “Legally Blonde: the Musical” is a musical comedy that tells the story of Elle Woods, who enrolls in Harvard Law School in an effort to win back her exboyfriend. 7 p.m. March 13 – 15 and 20 – 22. Milton Auditorium, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Milton. Please visit miltontheatrecompany.com.

‘BYE BYE BIRDIE’

When Conrad Birdie, rock and roll star, is drafted, his agency devises a publicity stunt to have Conrad premiere one last song. 7 p.m. March 14 – 15 and 20 - 22, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 15. Lambert High School Auditorium, 805 Nichols Road, Suwanee. Please visit atldrama.org.

ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW HIGH HEELS AND HIGH TIMES

High Heels and High Times is the Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties' largest fundraiser. Now in its sixth year, it is an afternoon of fashion shows for girls in 5th to 8th grade, raffles, food and shopping with some of our favorite vendors. 2 p.m. March 9. 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth. Please call 770923-1775 or visit jlgnf.org.

RACES & BENEFITS » SHAMROCKIN' FOR A CURE

For its sixth year, Shamrockin’ for a Cure returns to Alpharetta to rock the night with great

WATER DROP DASH 5K

The 2nd Annual Water Drop Dash 5K is a fast, flat course along the banks of the beautiful Chattahoochee River in Roswell, Georgia This event will kick-off national WaterSense Fix a Leak Week to raise awareness and encourage metro Atlanta residents to conserve water. Join us for a postrace family water festival full of giveaways, activities and free face painting. All race participants receive free all day admission to the Chattahoochee Nature Center on race day. 7:30 a.m. March 15. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Please call 404-463-3267 or visit waterdropdash.com.

Hosted by the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and the Orchid Society, this show will feature hundreds of orchids on display and for sale, as well as educational seminars. Free with garden admission. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. March 7 – 9. 1345 Piedmont Ave. Northeast, Atlanta. Please visit atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

ST. BALDRICK’S FUNDRAISER

A head shaving event with the St. Baldrick's Foundation, a non-profit that funds research to help find cures for children with cancer. 1 – 5 p.m. March 9. Harp Irish Pub, 1425 Market Blvd, Suite 1339, Roswell. Please visit stbaldricks.org.

20 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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

News and Advertising for New Homes • Realtors • Developers • Commercial Properties • and more

March 2014

A L P H A R E T TA • C U M M I N G • C H E R O K E E • D U L U T H • F O R S Y T H • G W I N N E T T • J O H N S C R E E K • M I LT O N • R O S W E L L • S U WA N N E E

MORTGAGE RATES »

Where do you think we are headed? By BILL RAWLINGS Vice President/Managing Broker North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Mortgage rates are a popular subject as they continue to decrease moving into 2014. What does the decrease mean for buyers? Depending on which way you view it, we can draw several conclusions. The view is that the market is coming back, and lower mortgage rates equal happy buyers as they move through the purchasing process. While these rates are expected to remain low for the short-term, the economy is expected to improve and lead to higher mortgage rates and home prices in the long-term. What does this mean to the experts? Who are the experts? These are industry leaders who live and breathe the statistics, facts and analysis when it comes to the housing market

and mortgage rates. According to an article on Realtor. com, “Mortgage Rates Continue Downward Trend,” the experts point to a decline in both mortgage rates and housing prices over the last several weeks. This is supported by a recent survey conducted by Freddie Mac. The article states, “This week the average rate on a 30year fixed loan dipped to 4.32 percent from 4.39 percent, according to the latest survey from mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. One month ago, that rate stood at an average of 4.51 percent.” This decline is due to concerns that the market will not be strong enough to handle a large increase in home prices in the short-term. Despite the concerns, many believe we will continue to see mortgage rates rise significantly over the longterm in 2014. The reason behind the expected mortgage rate increase is that the housing market is

coming back. The market is on the upward trend, and this will lead to rising home prices and rising mortgage rates. Neal J. Leitereg writes in the article, “The bond-purchase program has helped offset dramatic gains in real estate prices and kept affordability elevated while the market has stabilized. Despite the recent economic reporting, the housing market at large continues to show signs of recovery.” Whereas the economy and the housing market are not predicted to be strong enough to handle a large come back in the short term, they are poised for longterm growth, and we should expect this to happen in the next several years. We hope you will consider our firm as you begin your next real estate transaction. Call me for a recommendation of an agent who can assist you in the process. Office: 770.442.7300

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

March 6, 2014 21

Hardwood Or Laminate, Natural Tile Or Luxury Vinyl: What’s Best For Your Lifestyle on the other hand, offers a durable wear surface that is highly stain, scratch and moisture resistant. Because of its durability, hygienic nature and ease of installation and maintenance, laminate floors have become a low-cost alternative to hardwood, stone and tile. • Is your heart set on stone? Natural stone and porcelain tiles are another popular way to pave your floors. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors, glazed or unglazed, and can be used plain, decorated or as part of a mosaic. Along with its beauty, natural stone flooring will likely increase your home’s resale value, and it only improves with age. Stone is also popular because every piece of stone is unique so no two floors are alike. Natural stone varies in hardness as no stone floor has a perfectly smooth surface. There is always a possibility

can, however, be expensive and wood grain, tile, even marble. Plus, LVT are flexible and soft difficult to install, and some Since it also comes in sheets, to walk on. They have a cushy people find tile cold underfoot. planks and tiles, there’s lots “give” underfoot. • Vinyl floors offer many of room for self-expression. A Learn More perks. Luxury vinyl tile, which talented installer can use conYou can find further facts on falls in the “resilient” flooring trasting sheet vinyl for large floors and decorating advice from category, may be a flooring patterns. Tiles can be arranged the experts at the World Floor you should consider—espeany way you want, from check- Covering Association at www. cially if you’re concerned about erboard to stripes to diagonals. WFCA.org and (800) 624-6880. pets and kids. Luxury vinyl tile flooring is a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms, as well, because it’s “no wax” and easy to keep clean. It’s durable, affordable, water resistant, easy to install and doesn’t fade or stain. LVT flooring comes in many colors, textures Live in One of These Prestigious Counties with and patterns Fantastic School Systems, Recreation and Much More! and can imitate

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350 300

$ in Thousands

(NAPS)—Anyone can have beautiful, functional floors— once you review your options. For example, you may have your heart set on hardwood, but laminate may be a better option given your lifestyle. Alternatively, you may admire tile floors, but you might be a lot happier with luxury vinyl tile (LVT). In order to make the right decision, consider three key factors—budget, wearability and maintenance. • Hardwood floors are a great choice under the right conditions. Nothing compares to the natural beauty, color, intricate graining and depth of shine of a hardwood floor. Not only easy on the eye, hardwood floors tend to be warm underfoot too. Quality hardwood flooring is a big investment but will last a long time and add real value to your home. Hardwood is timely and timeless and completely authentic, and it comes in many colors, from nearly white to practically black and various warm shades of brown in between. Though there are many pluses to hardwood, there are some minuses to consider when deciding whether it’s right for you. Bear in mind, all hardwood is not the same; quality and pricing are big factors. Depending on the species, some hardwood floors can take a great deal of wear and tear and still look good. Others, though beautiful at first, show the signs of wear very quickly. In any case, you have to clean and care for it properly. This includes not using ammonia cleaners, oil soaps or a wet mop; using a professional hardwood floor cleaner to remove scuffs and scratches; and cleaning spills immediately. For these reasons, hardwood might not be the best fit for every home. • In some cases, laminate is a great alternative. Fortunately, for people who really like the look of wood, there’s an excellent—and much less expensive—alternative: laminate flooring. Through highly detailed digitized photography, laminate floors of today duplicate hardwood with tremendous realism that allows for a lower initial cost. What’s more, an inner cork subfloor on some laminate products helps tone down the noise and echoing attributes associated with laminates of yesterday. Unlike hardwood, a laminate floor will not fade. Pets can also be a problem for hardwood flooring. Laminate,

250 200 150 100 50 0

Jan-2013 265,000

Jan-13

Feb-13

Mar-13

Jan-2013 vs. Jan-2014 Jan2014 Change 315,225 50,225

May-13

Apr-13 % 19

Jun-13

+19%

Jul-13

+29%

Aug-13

Sep-13 Jan-2013 216,950

Oct-13

Nov-13

Dec-13

Jan-2013 vs. Jan-2014 Jan-2014 Change 280,950 64,000

Jan-14 % 29

22 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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

Sponsored Section • SUMMER CAMPS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald

Johns Creek Arts Center Summer Theater Camps Summer Camp 2014 at Performing Arts North The sounds of summer and the voices of happy children will fill the air beginning May 27 as the Johns Creek Arts Center commences its eighth year of summer camp. The JCAC provides one of the most extensive and exceptional summer camps in the North Fulton area. JCAC camps have been a recipient of the Nickelodeon Parents Choice Award for excellence. Typically, more the 900 children attend camp each summer. The skilled and creative educational staff at the Johns Creek Arts Center prides itself in offering a unique arts experience. Each year the teaching staff selects a general theme that serves as the impetus for many creative and innovative projects. The 2014 theme is Myths and Legends. Campers create projects inspired by mythology from all over the world. Each week long camp focuses on mythology and legends of Greece, Asia, Northern Europe or America. Different weeks focus on different legendary traditions.

Drawing and painting camps are offered for children four through seventeen. The art center also offers a number of specialty camps including Cartooning, Clay, Creative Writing and Illustration, Video Gamemaker, Theatre Camp, Jewelry Camp, Mosaics Camp, “Just Me & My Girl”, a camp for elementary age girls and their favorite doll companion, and Creative 3D Art. Before and aftercare are available for the convenience of working parents. For more information please contact the Johns Creek Arts Center at 770 623 8448. The complete summer camp schedule is also available online at www.johnscreekarts.org

Performing Arts North at the Dancing Goat Theatre is an Educational Theater for Youth that offers Classes, Camps and Community Theater. Theater enhances knowledge while creating positive experiences that can last a lifetime. Theater addresses the skills which benefit children’s physical, artistic, mental, personal and social development. It teaches self-confidence, public speaking skills and the ability to work with an ensemble to achieve a goal. A play requires students to follow a time line, to use self-discipline, and to accept feedback. We offer 6 camps this summer that include Drama, Comedy and Performance for ages 8 – 14, and an Imagination camp for ages 4 – 6. We encourage young people to do Shakespeare with respect for the text, understanding of the language and history. One summer camp is devoted to the performance of a classic play that mirrors the play the community company is producing;

therefore, students have an opportunity to see a performance as they are preparing a performance of the same show. Among the specific skills your child will learn at our camps are stage movement, voice and diction, stage termi-

nology and theater etiquette. They may also learn: stage make up, mask making, theater crafts, costuming and set design. Check our website for events happening all year at www.performingartsnorth.org.

Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SUMMER CAMPS • Sponsored Section

March 6, 2014 27

Full-day Camps from $126/week*

Fun & Adventures Galore! Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation offers a multitude of adventures this summer for ages 4-13. Top-notch facilities, super staff, and low counselor to camper ratio provide safe, enriching environments. Day camps start at an affordable $125 per week.* Passport to Fun – Explore other cultures and celebrate the nations. Games and activities from around the world. Mad Science – An interactive week of kooky concoctions and ooey gooey fun! A Day in the Knight – From renaissance art projects to medieval games, enjoy a journey fit for royalty and jesters alike!

Superhero – create your very own superhero, design a costume, and try out pretend special powers! Eco Mania – Go green! Recycle and repurpose stuff into cool crafts and games. Discover ways to protect the environment! Wacky Water Works – Wacky water games, and crafts. Discover a whole new depth of water and all its workings. Anything Goes – Do the things you don’t normally do at camp! Wear your PJs, bring electronics, watch movies, and enjoy this week of kid-style relaxation! For more information call 770.822.8840 or visit gwinnettparks. com. *Higher Non-Gwinnett resident fees apply.

Arts { Music { Athletics Outdoors { Martial Arts Dance { Theatre { Science Sign up online at www.gwinnettparks.com or call 770.822.8840

28 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

AMERICAN HERITAGE SOCIETY »

North Fulton residents get history lesson Elected officials tell littleknown facts about their cities By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Johns Creek was the area’s first international trade center. Roswell Mayor Jere Wood compares his hometown to a television show. The Republican Party is the reason North Fulton is entirely incorporated. These are just some of the little-known facts that came out at the American Heritage Society of Georgia’s inaugural meeting Feb. 25. As guest speakers, the American Heritage Society lined up Wood, first Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos, Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood, Johns Creek Councilman Brad Raffensperger and Alpharetta Councilman Donald Mitchell. Organizer Vesta Smith corralled this elected talent to kick off her goal of raising North Fulton’s consciousness about its local heritage and sense of community. The elected officials were the centerpiece of the evening, relating their thoughts on the histories of their respective communities. And most people said after the meeting that they learned a lot. Wood said he had warm memories of growing up in Roswell in the 1950s, when the city founded on mills still had the pants factory running. “But to know what Roswell was like you had to know Mayberry,” he said. Yes, that mythical town with Andy Griffith as sheriff, Aunt Bee and Gomer Pyle. It must be supposed Wood was an erstwhile Opie. His father was one of the first commuters downtown to Atlanta and shared a ride with three other intrepid commuters. “It was just a two-lane road, and it took them an hour to drive to Atlanta, a distance of about 25 miles. Today, we have an eight-lane highway and it still takes over an hour to get there,” he said. “We didn’t have Facebook in those days,” he said. “But we did have a party line on the telephone. Just like Facebook, people got a lot of enjoyment listening. And if you didn’t want something known all over town, you didn’t talk about it on the phone.” He remembered as a boy running through the woods, playing organized Little League baseball – and then playing disorganized baseball the rest of the summer. Then there was

“dirt clod season,” throwing clods at one another and “king of the hill” at the sawdust pile outside the saw mill. “And growing from 2,500 residents to 90,000, Roswell has still has the same culture. It’s just all the farms are subdivisions now and all the roads are paved,” Wood said. From Johns Creek, Councilman Raffensperger noted the area around Johns Creek was the seat of international commerce. “We had McGinnis Ferry that belonged to James McGinnis, one of the influential men in the area, Autrey Mill, Rogers Ferry, Nesbit Ferry,” Raffensperger said. “All of these are roads today. But in the early 1800s, these were ferries across the Chattahoochee River. “On the south side lived the settlers, and on the north were the Cherokees. So at these ferries were the trading posts for international trade between the Americans and the Indian nation,” he said. Councilman Mitchell was standing in for Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle. He said he would rather Marjean Birt take his place as she knew more about Alpharetta having been the longtime chairwoman of the Alpharetta Historical Society and having seen a lot of the city’s history firsthand. He said Alpharetta was county seat to the old Milton County, and that was due in large part to a great many springs in the area. The first big commercial area was northwest of what is now Avalon rising out of the dirt. It was the grist mill at Teasley Creek. “Each summer, Alpharetta had the old June Sing that brought people from miles around to sing from the Sacred Heart hymnal in the old shapenote style. The whole family would come and stay for days camping under the stars. It was also a great time for the ‘young people’ to get to know each other as well,” Mitchell said. There was some drinking reported once going on around on the edges of town. “But most people agreed they weren’t from around here,” Mitchell said. Today, the grist mill is no longer, but Alpharetta has embraced the new technology and is home to 600 technology companies and the lowest unemployment rate in North Fulton. Milton Mayor Lockwood

PHOTOS BY HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Presenters at the American Heritage Society are, from left, Mayor Joe Lockwood, Councilman Brad Raffensperger, Master of Ceremonies Roger Wise, Heritage Society founder Vesta Smith, former Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos, Mayor Jere Wood and Councilman Donald Mitchell.

Attendees listen raptly as the program takes a brief trip through North Fulton’s history. said he is most proud of his town’s sense of community. “And not just of Milton, but all of North Fulton,” he said. He moved here 27 years ago. Lockwood explained it this way: He settled on an old dairy farm. He bought a tractor and asked if he could pay for it when it came in. “The man told me he knew where I lived, and it would be dropped off. I could come around and pay him after it was delivered. You didn’t need a credit card in those days. You carried your credit around with you,” Lockwood said. The unquestioned belle of the evening was former Mayor Galambos. For more than 30 years, she led the ef-

fort to create a city of Sandy Springs. That eventual success story was the direct catalyst for incorporation of Johns Creek, Milton, Dunwoody and Brookhaven. “We fought for years to be a city, but the city of Atlanta would not allow it. Atlanta wanted to annex us instead,” she said. Sandy Springs residents did not want to be “eaten up” by Atlanta like Buckhead had been. But Galambos said it was “better to be for something than against Atlanta.” So they fought for cityhood. At the time, Georgia had the longest serving House speaker entrenched in the Legislature. Speaker Tom Murphy

Elena Matchen, 15, from Milton High School renders “The Star Spangled Banner.” carried more political clout than anyone in the state. “He was a Democrat, and as long as he was speaker, he was going to give Atlanta what they wanted. We never stood a chance to be a city until the Republicans won control of the House and Speaker Murphy was no longer in power,” Galambos said. “So he retired and we got a new speaker,” she said. “So if you want to know why there are cities in North Fulton today, it is because of the Republican Party.” More history lessons are promised each month from the American Heritage Society.

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 29

We Connect You.

Top 10 Wealthiest Georgia Communities with Income over $150k (Milton Herald)

Druid Hills – 26% Sandy Springs – 25% Alpharetta – 23%

(Johns Creek Herald)

Roswell – 22%

Berkeley Lake – 41% Milton – 36% Johns Creek – 30%

(Revue & News)

Skidaway Island – 27% Dunwoody – 26%

(Revue & News)

Peachtree City – 21%

Per the Atlanta Business Chronicle Sept. 16-22, 2011

The Milton Herald, The Johns Creek Herald, and The Alpharetta/Roswell Revue & News are the primary local newspapers in the 2nd, 3rd, 8th and 9th wealthiest cities in Georgia.

Our Readers Should be Your Customers: • • • • •

Reach over 139,650 Loyal Readers 61% of Appen Readers earn $100,000+ 33% of Appen Readers earn $150,000+ 65% Are College Graduates or Post Grad. 75% Use our Newspapers to Purchase Goods and Services

• • • •

Milton Herald Circulation: 8,500 Forsyth Herald Circulation: 17,000 Johns Creek Herald Circulation: 20,000 Revue & News Circulation: 28,000

Online: NorthFulton.com & NorthsideWoman.com 319 N. Main St., Alpharetta, GA (about 15 miles N. of Atlanta)

Appen Media Group. We connect you.

30 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

Poole signs to hit college links at Georgia State

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-14-AB-04 PLACE City Hall Two South Main Street Council Chambers March 13, 2014 3:00 P. M. PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Liquor, Beer & Wine Sunday Sales APPLICANT Saturday Market Catering, Inc d/b/a Tin Roof Kitchen 52B North Main St. Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Owner Roberta C. Rowles Registered Agent Dominick John Racano

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek High School senior Hayden Poole will be attending Georgia State University on a golf scholarship. Poole played baseball for 10 years, two of them at JCHS. Travel baseball and basketball were put on hold Poole’s sophomore year due to an injury. During this time, he took up golf seriously and made the JCHS golf team in 2012 and 2013. He developed a passion for the game and received the following awards: 2012 winner at AAJGT Bradshaw Farms; 2013 winner at SJGT Sanctuary Cover; second place individually at 2013 state playoffs; Top 10 finisher at U.S. Jr. Amateur Qualifier; selected for junior USA Team 2014. Poole thanked his coaches, teammates, family, friends, River Pines and Standard Club golf courses for all of their support in his pursuit of collegiate golf.

In front, Johns Creek High School senior Hayden Poole signs his letter of intent as parents Jim and Kim and sister Courtney watch. In back are Assistant Principal Patrick Martin, golf coaches Craig Forney, Steve Sweigart and Luke Warren and Athletic Director Mike Cloy.

Creek View’s Kavitha heads to state spelling bee

NorthFulton.com

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Creek View Elementary student Tharini Kavitha, No. 10, finishes in second place in the district spelling bee. A fifth-grader in Allison Snow’s class, Kavitha will be moving on to the state spelling bee March 21.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK RFQ NUMBER #14-097 Professional Engineering Services for

Notice of Public Internet Auction Johns Creek Police Department

Johns Creek Citywide ITS Expansion The City of Johns Creek seeks design consulting firms to provide professional engineering and related services for the following: • Signal design related to converting to flashing yellow arrow • Signal synchronization through adaptive signal systems including before and after studies to document benefits • Traffic control center design and connectivity • Communication and ITS device design • Geometric design related to extending turn lanes The City of Johns Creek is accepting sealed Request for Proposals (RFQ) from qualified firms for professional services. Sealed RFQ’s will be received no later than 2:00 P.M. on April 7, 2013 in the City of Johns Creek Purchasing Office, 12000 Findley Rd., Suite-400, Johns Creek, Georgia, 30097. RFQ’s received after the above time or in any other location other than the Purchasing Office will not be accepted. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on March 25, at 10:00 AM at the City Hall Council Chambers, 3rd floor. RFQ packages are available on the City website at www.johnscreekga.gov. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Purchasing Office at (678) 512-3233. RFQ’s shall be presented in a sealed opaque envelope with the RFQ number and name clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. The name of the company or firm submitting an RFQ response should also be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. FOUR (4) ORIGINALS AND ONE (1) COPY OF THE RFQ ON CD MUST BE SUBMITTED. RFQ’s will not be accepted verbally or by fax or email. All offerors must comply with all general and special requirements of the RFQ information and instructions enclosed herein. The City of Johns Creek reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities, and to make award in the best interest of the City of Johns Creek. John Kachmar City Manager

Mike Bodker Mayor

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

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

SCHOOLS

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 31

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Chattahoochee’s Tasleem “Taz” Wilson signs a national letter of intent to play football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Seated with him is his mother Krystal Wilson. Standing, from left, are CHS Athletic Director Milo Mathis, head football coach Mike Owens and CHS Principal Tim Duncan.

’Hooch’s Wilson signs to play Division I football at UAB JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Chattahoochee High School’s Tasleem “Taz” Wilson has signed a national letter of intent to play football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), an NCAA Division I school. Wilson plans to major in mass communications with a concentration in broadcast journalism. The UAB Blazers compete in Conference USA in the Eastern Division. Wilson was Chattahoochee’s senior co-captain and quarterback with a senior season record of 2,274 yards and 16 touchdowns. He is a three-

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STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Roswell High School

Devin Smith

Name: Devin Devin Smith Smiith Age: 17 Athletic Team: Basketball Position: Forward School and/or Community Activities: Balancing out a job, school and basketball GPA: 3.0 Athletic Awards: Lettering twice Future Plans: Play basketball at the college level and major in accounting

Chattahoochee High School

Kevin Carbone

Name: Kevin Carbone Age: 17 Athletic Team: Swim Team Position: Breaststroke, butterfly School and/or Community Activities: Swim team, Swim Atlanta, also helping in environmental activities GPA: 3.7 Athletic Awards: High school swimming state Academic Awards: Allstate band and honor role Future Plans: Attend college and swim, major in communications

Palmer Dodge 'Student Athletes of the Week' are selected by the Athletic Departments of Alpharetta, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Milton, and Roswell High School. If your school is not represented, the deadline was not met. To view this week and prior week's Student Athletes, please visit our website at PalmerDodgeOnline.com

32 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

OPINION

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

Zoning decisions: Why can’t they just say no? As sometimes happens, I get emails from people who want to know why there is always so much contention about local zoning cases. They often see the decision as clearcut (their side). Why then is it so difficult for a city council to decide what to do in a particular zoning case? If dozens of city residents turn out to oppose it, shouldn’t that be a clear signal to deny it? In other words, why can’t the city just say no? This is not unusual since for many attendees it is their first foray into the arcane world of the city zoning arena. Regardless, the applicant is almost always the bad guy. The owner of the property and the developer want to build a subdivision, say, on a road that is already full of subdivisions. Traffic is almost gridlocked every morning and evening with everyone going and coming from work, not to mention the school buses. Many residents naturally don’t want more crowding and

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

congestion; others speak of enjoying the natural beauty of the applicant’s property and how developing it would despoil the area. Then why can’t a city council simply inform this guy that the city is full-up on this road and tell him no dice? These are some of the many objections raised in zoning cases. While I am not an expert by any means, in 29 years, I have covered more than 8,000 zoning cases in Fulton, DeKalb, Fayette, Forsyth and Paulding counties and the cities therein. Therefore, I can call on a lot of experience. If the applicants look confident, it starts with Georgia law that strongly favors the

But the developer has to know down to the square foot where it all will fit, how many homes it will yield. Obviously, it is often in the applicant’s and developer’s interests to maximize the density of the property. That is not the city’s job. individual’s right to develop one’s property. If owners intend to use the land in much the same manner and at the same density as the developed property around them, they know Georgia law and the courts are on their side. To deny a property owner from developing his land in the same manner as his neighbors is usually deemed a “taking” of the value of their land in court. Communities are required to create a comprehensive land use plan (CLUP) that gives all property owners a reasonable expectation of what they and their neighbors can do with their land. A more intense use than allowed under the CLUP requires approval of a rezoning or a variance. This is to allow some

leeway that might be due to unusual topographical features or other extenuating circumstances that recognize no land use plan can anticipate every eventuality. But the farther one strays from the CLUP, the riskier approval is. The CLUP is the biggest tool a city has in preserving the property rights of applicants and the neighboring properties. It is also the best way for cities to avoid a property lawsuit. Judges weigh a city’s reliance on the CLUP heavily in making zoning decisions. A property may not have the same zoning as across the street when the CLUP is made. But if both sides of the street are entitled to the same range of uses under the CLUP – such as two units per acre – then

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both sides of the street can expect to exercise the same or similar uses under the CLUP. Thus, while the neighbors perceive they are “negatively affected” by the new development, if the applicant’s plan falls within the CLUP’s guidelines – and is for instance the same development and density the neighbors have – any redress for those negatives normally must come from the city, not the applicant. He has the same right to use the streets and other amenities that his neighbors do. The city’s responsibilities might mean more traffic lights, widening roads, improving intersections or whatever the city deems necessary, practical and affordable. A city can’t say there is no room for the applicant’s project because he was merely the last one to build. Zoning is not a land rush where the city can stop a development or reduce the density. That is what the lawyers call “arbitrary and capricious,” and judges tend to agree. As for the investment that builders make in surveying the land, developing home elevations and other drawings, it is simply due diligence on the developer’s part to understand the soundness of the investment. For most of us, we are buying one home in an established subdivision. We already know what the house looks like, we know where the closets are, how big the yard is and what the amenities are. But the developer has to know down to the square foot where it all will fit, how many homes it will yield. Obviously, it is often in the applicant’s and developer’s interests to maximize the density of the property. That is not the city’s job. Other factors such as stream buffers affect buildable area, and the city is entitled to reduce density to reflect that. It must decide what is best for all while upholding the CLUP. A city planning commission and city planning staff are recommending bodies, and only the city councils have final say. The council is caught in the middle most times in a contentious rezoning, and it is their job to be fair and equitable in all cases. Yes, there will be added congestion and more students for the schools. New development will also contribute to the tax digest, the sales tax and to the overall economy of the city. It will be up to the council to determine how best to mitigate the negatives while exploiting the positives. City councils often wind up pleasing no one, and that probably means they did their job well.

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 6, 2014 | 33

Ashely Watson champion coupon shopper First Coupon Mom Olympics collects 1,200 items to NFCC food pantry ROSWELL, Ga. – The first Coupon Mom Olympics Feb. 21 collected 1,200 shopping items valued at nearly $2,000. All items were donated to the North Fulton Community Charities food pantry while demonstrating the shopping power of coupon clipping. Expert shoppers competed at a Kroger grocery store in Roswell to see who could buy the most food with the greatest savings. All the food donated went to the food pantry to help the 100 families NFCC serves each day. “It was a great success in raising food for charity in a fun way,” said Coupon Mom founder, Stephanie Nelson. “We appreciate that Kroger let us do it and provide the prizes. We really appreciate everyone who came out to volunteer and support this event.” In terms of totals for the Coupon Olympics, the checkout value of the groceries purchased was $1,920 before

tax, but the Coupon Mom contestants’ total cost using their coupons was only $240. Contestants relied on their savvy use of store sales and savings strategy to slash their costs by 80 percent. Expert coupon shopper Ashley Watson won the gold and received a $500 Kroger gift card. The silver winner received a $100 card, and all other contestants received $50 gift cards. Nelson said she enjoyed the competition and even learned a few new tricks from these

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coupon-savvy contestants. The Kroger store is in Coleman Village, 900 Marietta Highway in Roswell. CouponMom.com is a free website with 7 million members. Nelson is known as the nation’s top expert in couponing across the country. She has taught millions how to save money for the past 13 years. Nelson has been called “the rock star of the recession” by the Washington Post and her book, “The Coupon Mom’s Guide to Cutting Your Grocery Bills in Half,” is a New York Times bestseller. For information, go to www.CouponMom. com.

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Varsity: Continued from Page 11

Westminster School

DEATH NOTICES Richard Blanton, 90, of Watkinsville, passed away February 24, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Judith Kelly, 49, of Roswell, passed away February 22, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Dennis Lee Crawford, of Forsyth County, passed away February 19, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Elaine C. Keir, 62, of Franklin, NC, passed away February 22, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Reece Daniel Elseroad, 4, of Cumming, passed away February 17, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Darlene Klubeck, 79, of Roswell, passed away February 23, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Catherine Gridley, 75, of Roswell, passed away February 22, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

SIMSBURY, Conn. – Lauren Boures of Johns Creek, a junior at Westminster School in Simsbury, Conn., earned honors for the fall 2013 academic term.

Belmont University NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Several local residents recently performed in Belmont University’s nationally televised “Christmas at Belmont” concert, which was aired on PBS. More than 800 student musicians joined the Belmont School of Music faculty and the Nashville Children’s Choir for the taping of the annual production of traditional carols, classical masterworks and seasonal favorites. Local student performers appearing on the broadcast included Jacob Robinson of Roswell, Colby Lapolla of Milton, Dustin Fichter of Alpharetta, Elizabeth Monahan of Roswell, Samuel Eisenberg of Alpharetta, Carolina Rodriguez of Alpharetta, Sarah Terning of Johns Creek and Haley Smith of Roswell.

Coupon Olympian Ashley Watson is the champion coupon shopper, taking home a $500 Kroger gift card for her thrift.

John Raymond Hendricks, Sr., 83, of Cumming, passed away February 17, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Lyman Gilbert Hertzler, 96, of Roswell, passed away February 24, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Evelyne Kaufman Jones, 88, of Atlanta passed away February 20, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

20 YEARS

Kenneth Lee Jones, 59, of Cumming, passed away February 21, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Sheila C. Knight, 55, of Ball Ground, passed away February 20, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Larry C. Pitts, 64, of Gainesville, passed away February 21, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Brenda Ragsdale, 71, of Marietta, passed away February 24, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Jerome Sheffield, 58, of Suwanee, passed away February 19, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Russell Veale, 53, of Alpharetta, passed away February 20, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

BACKWATER LANDING – LAKE KEOWEE, SC Waterfront Cottages, Gated – Prices from $140’s to $395,000 This showcase model now available fully furnished for $395,000 Lodge, fitness center, pool, beach, boardwalk, boat slips and more. 888-663-1133 www.backwaterlanding.com Office Hours: Mon-Fri 1-5, Sat & Sun 11-5 and always available by appointment

Country Ranch

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

36 | March 6, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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