Sponsored Sections Health & Wellness ►►PAGE 34 Summer Camps ►►PAGE 46
Spring at Avalon
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Anderson sworn in
County mgr. has big plans to reorganize Fulton ►►PAGE 7
Are you ready for school? Gwinnett Tech N.F. breaks ground ►►PAGE 33
March 12, 2015 | johnscreekherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 19, No. 11
STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS:
Johns Creek’s future ‘at critical crossroads’ Mayor says city must choose path for economic viability By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com
House fire claims life Firefighters battled a fire Monday, March 9 on Summer Crest Court in Johns Creek. Unfortunately they were unable to save the resident in time. Read more, Page 6. HATCHER HURD/STAFF
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Mayor Mike Bodker made it clear in his March 6 State of the City address that Johns Creek must “choose a path” that will lead to economic viability. Bodker told the nearly 300 people gathered at the Atlanta Athletic Club ballroom that for the city to be sustainable, it must face critical decisions now. “The truth is we are at a critical crossroads. As Johns Creek citizens, we must choose a path forward that ensures the economic viability of the city,” Bodker said. Continuing the status quo is not an option, he said. Johns Creek will need a “bold
vision meant to define the city’s legacy for generations to come.” The vehicle for that change will be the reshapBODKER ing of “The District,” the 725 acres along Ga.141 and McGinnis Ferry Road encompassed in the redevelopment plan that the city has just begun. Without it, the city cannot generate the revenue to pay the continuing costs of today and the rising costs of future growth. Bodker made a call for residents’ participation in the
See FUTURE, Page 13
Johns Creek named safest city in 2014 Milton 2nd; Alpharetta, Roswell close behind By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek is the safest city in Georgia, according to a national research company, and not far behind are Milton (No. 2), Alpharetta (No. 5), Roswell (No. 8) and Sandy Springs (No. 9). ValuePenguin is a company that does in-depth research in a variety of areas to help people making major
financial decisions, including where to live in Georgia. ValuePenguin cofounder Brian Quinn said the company sourced its data from 2013 Federal Bureau of Investigation crime statistics by city, which provides the most recent data available. The raw data report included violent crimes (murder/manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larcenytheft, motor vehicle theft and arson)
Georgia’s 10 safest cities of 25,000 or more 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
JOHNS CREEK MILTON Peachtree City Kennesaw ALPHARETTA
from all law enforcement agencies that participate in the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. “We standardized the data to reflect violent and property crimes per 100,000, to account for population. We
6. Woodstock 7. Duluth 8. ROSWELL 9. SANDY SPRINGS 10. Lawrenceville then aggregated a ‘crime score,’” Quinn said. To calculate these scores ValuePenguin weighted violent crime at 90
See SAFEST, Page 9
2 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
PUBLIC SAFETY
15 arrested in prostitution sting Johns Creek clamps down on pimps, prostitutes JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – In a weekend sting, Johns Creek Police reported arresting 15 people in connection with prostitution and pimping. JC Police, with help from Alpharetta and Roswell Police and the Georgia Bureau of BOZEMAN Investigation, arranged fake meetings on websites popular with prostitution. These meetings were designed to lure either prospective “clients” or prostitutes to be arrested. The police arranged to meet the suspects at a Medlock Bridge Road hotel in Johns Creek. The sting took place over the weekend of Feb. 19 – 21. Fifteen people were arrested from the sting. Four were charged with prostitution, seven with pimping, three with misdemeanor pandering and one with felony pandering someone under 17. “The first night we targeted the prostitutes and pimps,” said Capt. Chris Byers of Johns Creek Police. “The second night, we were providing the prostitutes and people came in to make deals.” The sting was in response to a complaint the police received about a mother and step-daughter – Tarah Daracott and her step-daughter are accused of pimping and prostitution, respectively. The step-daughter is 19 years old. “We were able to arrest those two in the operation as well,” Byers said. “These are people that have put up ads on Craigslist or Backpage.com advertising they do sex for money in Johns
See STING, Page 52
POLICE BLOTTER All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
Dogsitter accused of stabbing dog ALPHARETTA, Ga. – An Alpharetta man is suspected of repeatedly stabbing a dog he was watching for a friend. Police were called Feb. 28 to the Roswell Animal Hospital after a report came in of an animal being stabbed. The owner of the bulldog mutt in question said her friend, Philemon Lee DeLouise, 27, of Village Green Way, Alpharetta, was watching her dog for her. She said she visits the dog a few times a week. That morning when she visited, DeLouise allegedly denied her entry. The
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home broken into and his mattress and motorcycle moved, but not taken. The resident told police he came home about 1:30 p.m. and found his front door broken. Someone had tried to pry it open but only succeeded in making the door inaccessible. The rear door, however was successfully opened. The victim said he found the home rummaged through and a mattress moved from upstairs to the ground floor. A motorcycle that did not run, which was kept in the garage, was moved to a parking lot nearby. Other than the front door, there was no damage and nothing reported missing.
Son tried to pawn mother’s goods MILTON, Ga. – A Milton mother discovered Jan. 27 that her son and his
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Alpharetta man guilty in heroin-induced death of friend
DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
Ben-Hanania refused to call for help, watched victim die ALPHARETTA, Ga. – An Alpharetta man standing trial for the heroininduced murder of a friend has entered a guilty plea and was BEN-HANANIA sentenced to 20 years in prison. Cory BenHanania, 21, pleaded guilty March 6 to charges of involuntary manslaughter and distribution of heroin for his role in the 2014 death of Chelsea Ivanna Bennett, 20, of Johns Creek. Bennett died on March 3, 2014 following a heroin overdose at Ben-Hanania’s Ridge Oak Place home in Alpharetta. According to the investigation, Ben-Hanania injected Bennett with heroin. She soon began to overdose. Instead of seeking help, Ben-Hanania did nothing as the victim suffered in medical distress over the course of seven hours. After Bennett passed away, the defendant then began taking steps to conceal her death including deleting text messages from the victim’s phone and stashing syringes in her shirt and car. Meantime, the victim’s parents, who were concerned about her whereabouts after she failed to return home, tracked their daughter to the Ben-Hanania’s home. Paramedics who were called to the scene attempted to revive the victim. She was transported to the hospital, but was pronounced dead. Ben-Hanania initially lied to police about his involvement and even tried to blame his friend Sebastian Andrade, who was visiting with him and Bennett on the night of the incident, for the victim’s
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McCaffrey, a third indicted co-defendant who admitted selling drugs to the defendant, pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin in connection with the crime. He was sentenced to four years in prison followed by one year in a rehab center. After pleading guilty, BenHanania was sentenced to 20 years, to serve 12 in prison with the balance on probation. His sentencing comes the same week as the Georgia Legislature passed a “Good Samaritan” law, granting immunity to drug users who call 911 when their friends overdose.
Johns Creek resident Chelsea Bennett, 20, overdosed on heroin forced upon her by Cory Ben-Hanania. Ben-Hanania pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. death. Andrade pleaded guilty last December to a single count of concealing the death of another and was sentenced to five years’ probation. Kevin
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►► Michael James Rives, 44,
of Timberstone Road, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 21 on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Oyenmwen Uzebu, 41, of Haynes Bridge Road, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 13 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI and open container. ►► Kathe Gorder Nale, 43, of Creekstone Path, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 12 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and fail-
ure to maintain lane. ►► Bradley William Hudson, 27, of Dacula was arrested Feb. 10 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Ashley Rae Rankin, 23, of Pebble Trace, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 12 on Old Roswell Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Mario Anthony Perez, 41, of Buford was arrested Feb. 7 on Walnut Creek Crossing in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Nicole Renee Kendrick, 23, of Woodstock was arrested Feb. 6 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, following too closely and possession of marijuana. ►► Woubayhw Tamrat Bekele, 27, of Commonwealth Way, Milton, was arrested Feb. 14
See ARRESTS, Page 14
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4 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
Johns Creek streaming meetings live Electronic taping to be archived on city’s website for review By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com
City online video streaming
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek residents will be able to keep their finger on the pulse of city politics sitting in their easy chair now that the City Council is ready to televise meetings live. Johns Creek will launch its online livestreaming of city meetings Monday, March 16, with the council workshop and City Council meeting shown live at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively. Say you miss it? No worries. All of the meetings will be archived and feature bookmarking that allows viewers to go straight to the agenda item or items that interest them most without fast-forwarding. To see the meetings live or review later, simply go to the city website at johnscreekga.gov to watch. The city is also streaming and archiving other government meetings such as the Planning Commission meetings and the Board of Zoning Appeals. The WH Platts Company was contracted to oversee the installation of the $85,000 video system to allow residents to view live online broadcasts of most council and commission meetings and archive them for the public review using cloud technology. Subcontractor Granicus will not only store the meetings, but will electronically
CITY BRIEFS Send us your news! Email to news@appenmediagroup.com More Info: 770-442-3278
Johns Bridge widening to last through mid-fall JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Johns Creek Public Works Department is scheduled to start widening Jones Bridge Road between Kimball Bridge and State Bridge roads in March.
The system will feature the following capabilities: • Council meetings, work sessions and remote meetings recorded for online viewing. • Live streaming capability for locally hosted meetings. • Presentation materials (PowerPoint, document camera and so on) part of online stream. • Agenda linking for fast forward of recorded meetings. • Meetings available via web browser or app. • Agendas and packets available and distributed via app. “bookmark” them so individual agenda items can be retrieved and viewed without searching through the video itself. Platts sales design engineer David Strupp said the company has these types of projects for Hall County, the city of Columbus and the city of Lawrenceville locally. Platts has customers throughout the Southeast. “This gives the city the ability to capture the council meetings and the associated meetings in its conference room with a multi-camera configuration,” Strupp said.
The project will widen Jones Bridge Road from two to four lanes, plus a center turn lane. It also includes adding a traffic signal at North Bridge shopping center, and a 6-foot sidewalk on the west side of Jones Bridge Road and a 10-foot-wide trail on the east side. “This is part of an ongoing effort by Public Works to improve Jones Bridge Road, which is one of our more heavily traveled roads,”
See CITY, Page 13
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“The cameras not only capture the council and those presenting to the council, but any electronic information they bring in, whether it is on laptop or written material under a document camera,” he said. Using Granicus, a separate company with more than 20,000 government clients, the meetings are electronically separated so the user can jump directly to the item the user wants. “This is a huge labor-saving device for the public and saves a tremendous amount of time,” Strupp said. Residents can follow City Council proceedings by visiting the city website, and clicking on the appropriate link. If they want to re-watch the meeting or if they were unable to come to City Hall, they can go the website and watch an archived video. The archived video will be tabbed to correspond with specific agenda items so people can watch only items that interest them if they so choose. “In keeping with our commitment to increase transparency, we are now making it easy for the public to follow and understand what is happening in our city, even if they cannot attend a meeting in person,” said Mayor Mike Bodker. “We hope this will help our citizens feel better informed and, in turn, provide us more input as issues come before the City Council, which will allow us to better represent them.”
JC Police app keeps citizens on breaking news events Free JC4Me multi-use app for cell phones JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Johns Creek Police Department has introduced a free mobile app for iPhones and Androids that keeps residents posted the latest traffic accidents, missing persons, crime reports and even wanted BOLOs (Be on the Lookout) bulletins. Called JCPD4Me, the app provides links to the Police Department’s various social media outlets and can be used to get the latest bulletins on traffic accidents, missing persons, crime reports, and “most wanted” information as well as news and events. JCPD4Me also includes alarm registration forms, and ways to file or purchase reports, look up the Georgia Sex Offender Registry, road information, or write the Department.
“Community involvement and support is essential to our success as a department,” said Police Chief Ed Densmore. DENSMORE “The app helps improve communication between the citizens we serve and the department.” The app is available on iPhone and Android app stores. The City offers an app called “JC Now” that pushes emergency notifications from the City and provides mobile access to all city interactive maps (including live traffic), news articles, council meeting agendas, social media and contact information. There is also a “Johns Creek Fix It” app that residents can use to report pot holes, litter, illegal signs, and other issues directly to the City’s Customer Service Department.
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johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 5
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6 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
NEWS
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Woman dies in Johns Creek fire JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A Summer Crest Court resident died in a house fire March 9. Officials report neighbors calling in about the residence ablaze about 6 a.m. When fire crews arrived, the home was fully engulfed in fire, said Doug Nurse, spokesman for the Johns Creek Fire Department. Firefighters were able to douse the blaze. The house was destroyed. When crews searched the home, they found the as-yetunnamed resident, as well as two dogs. An initial investigation from firefighters suggest the fire was an accident, however they declined to elaborate. Smoke detectors in the house did not work, they said. The name of the resident who died has not yet been released.
She died in the fire along with two dogs. Nurse said this is the second fire-related fatality in the city’s history. For updates on this story, please visit northfulton.com. —Jonathan Copsey
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johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 7
Anderson ready to take on Fulton’s top job Has plan to move county forward By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – As expected, Richard Anderson, the former BellSouth executive, vice chairman of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority and chief operating officer of the Federal Reserve, was unanimously appointed Fulton County manager Wednesday, March 4. He had been named the single finalist for the job, and commissioners were almost giddy he agreed to “interview” for it. Anderson comes with a sterling resume as a corporate executive and government management as well. It couldn’t come at a better time. He is the fifth county manager or interim county manager since 2012. “One of the most important decisions that Fulton County makes is the selection of the county manager, who leads and manages the day-to-day operations of the county,” said District 2 County Commissioner Bob Ellis of Roswell. “Fulton County has had a tremendous amount of instability at this position the past
few years,” he said. “But I think we have a high-quality individual here.” Ellis said his managerial experience in both the ANDERSON public and private sectors appealed to the Board of Commissioners. As vice chairman of BellSouth and later group president of AT&T, Anderson was responsible for guiding a $30 billion corporation with global clients, Ellis noted. Anderson says he will focus on three areas to concentrate his and the county’s efforts: • Impact • Efficiency • Customer service For Anderson, impact means ordering what the county does by scale. “In other words, you take your resources and look what are the things that are most important to a million residents,” Anderson said. “So if the water doesn’t turn on, that is a real problem. If we have to cancel a concert, that is bad too, but it doesn’t impact a million people.” That pushes people to make priorities and make
I think we have a high-quality individual here.” BOB ELLIS District 2 County Commissioner of Roswell
strategic choices to accomplish those priorities. Efficiency for Anderson is marrying public motives with private sector practices. “It simply means we have a deeper motive than just the bottom line,” he said. “In fact, it is broader motive. But there are plenty of private sector practices we can employ. “They include good planning, metrics, resource allocation, discipline, performance management, succession planning – all of those sorts of things that make for a highperformance organization from my experience,” he said. But it does not mean running government like a business. Government does not provide a “bottom line,” he said. What government provides is value. “I have run a business and it cannot be applied to govern-
ment,” Anderson said. “They don’t have the same goals.” Efficiency is one of those transferrable practices, however. It is part of keeping the plan on track. “With efficiency, you want to establish metrics. Where will you be in two years, then three years,” Anderson said. He creates a roadmap for getting to where he wants his people to be. Efficiency also creates accountability. “I’ve learned that what gets measured gets managed,” Anderson said. In the short term, Anderson’s No. 1 priority will be reorganizing staff and structure and focusing the organization. “There is a new organizational design that I have laid out. Now I have to populate that organization with leaders who will be selected in the next 30 to 45 days – both internal and external,” he said. Anderson will use town hall meetings, the FGTV and field visits to explain his new focus of impact, efficiency and customer service to the public and what these aspirational goals will mean. But perhaps his toughest challenge will be to create buyin from his seven bosses on the County Commission. For that, he is planning an
off-site meeting April 15 with the commissioners. “There, we will reach an agreement with the commissioners on the [county] priorities. Coming from that will be the real strategies and the associated resources [funding] them,” Anderson said. These strategies will be accomplished by prioritizing the greatest impacts using best efficiencies and the best customer service. That is what Anderson says the retreat he is planning with the Board of Commissioners should accomplish. “Not only will it tell us where our priorities are, but give us an idea of how well we are performing in those areas,” he said. Under Anderson’s plan, the priorities will have measureable outcomes and the resources allocated to attain them. That should tell the commissioners how effective service delivery is and the impact it is having. “The essence of all this will be an engaged citizenry. To do that, I will need an engaged employee force with the right structure and the right priorities given to us by the board,” he said. “That’s the first thing to tackle.”
8 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
OPINION
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A REMEMBRANCE:
Fulton Commissioner Tom Lowe: A life of service
‘The Grapes of Wrath’ and other cliché wine-related titles The state of Georgia is as synonymous with making good wines as Detroit is with budget surpluses. That is why I was apprehensive when my fianceé, Melanie, wanted to partake in a wine tasting on our day trip to Georgia’s Appalachian foothills. My only previous consumption of Georgia-made wine had occurred about two years ago when I tasted a sip of white wine from a vineyard in Dahlonega. Not only was it not good, it was decidedly awful. It tasted like someone added a little grape juice to rubbing alcohol. And mind you, I had already consumed a bit of wine (read: I had consumed lots and lots of wine) and therefore had a palate that was about as discerning as a dog digging through a garbage bin. Needless to say, I was not expecting to taste the nectar of the gods with Melanie, but if nothing else it was still booze, I thought. Melanie and I ventured to Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards, which had the distinctions of being the closest vineyard to our hotel as well as perhaps the best vineyard name I’ve ever heard. (I did have to look up the name though as I had remembered it as “sautécoochie-something.”) As we arrived, I was thinking that not only am I going to have to drink sub-par wine, but I will also be forced to listen to the vineyard employee speaking of the wine in such high praise that low-life scum like me does not even deserve to be in the same hemisphere as these grapes. But I was pleasantly surprised.
JOE PARKER
Appen Intern news@appenmedia group.com The part I was dreading the most, having partaken in many wine-tastings, was hearing the employee’s obnoxiously opulent rave of their wine. But what I was told instead was the information I wanted to know – and nothing more. I wasn’t made to feel as if I wasn’t worthy of drinking the wine. There was no talk of the angle of the vines, how many days of sunshine the grapes receive in the year or the average rainfall of the valley. For the first time in my experiences of tasting wines, someone had allowed me to drink a glass and form my own opinion on it. And my opinion was that it was surprisingly good. The vineyard was also serving peach frozen sangria made with one of their white wines that was so incredibly delicious I would gladly have consumed it until my liver popped out of my throat waving a white flag. After spending a very quiet hour enjoying the view of the rows of grapes and mountainside, longingly sipping our wine, Melanie and I departed, each with multiple bottles in hand and a new sense of civicpride. We also left with the realization that perhaps Georgia wine isn’t so bad, after all. Except for that Dahlonega battery acid that was labeled “wine,” that is.
Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe was a true legend as the Fulton commissioner for Sandy Springs for 40 years. Still, it came as a shock when I heard the news that Tom died last week. For most of those years, he was the lone Republican on a board dominated by Atlanta LOWE Democrats – a lonely place indeed. He was hailed by those who watched the Georgia Republican Party being built one brick at a time as one who carried the mortar. In 1971, he began touring the state to carry the GOP standard wherever two were gathered. U.S. Rep. Tom Price, R-6th District, called him “a trailblazer and a leader in Fulton County and Republican politics for decades.” U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson called him a “pioneer for conservative government” and “great leader” for the GOP. Yet despite holding the only “red seat” on the Fulton Commission, he proved to be an able politician who fought for right as God gave him the light to see it. But win, lose or draw any issue, he always wiped the slate clean for the next battle. He always took each case on its own merits, not who was bringing it forward. He was also different from many of his fellow commissioners in that he represented all of the constituents, not just those in his district. He didn’t suffer fools gladly, and when he had enough, he would bark, “Mr. Chairman, call the question.” Tom was the longest serving Fulton commissioner ever, attending some 470 meetings. He was proud of that, and it certainly demonstrated his passion for serving his people. Tom always knew the agenda, and when
HATCHER HURD
Executive Editor hatcher@ appenmediagroup.com the important issues were up, he was always there and loaded for bear if it was going to turn rancorous. And things would often turn rancorous, or even rowdy down at 141 Pryor St. There were no shrinking violets on the board. It is fair to say Tom always gave as good as he got, and then some. For my part, Tom was always the decorous Southern gentleman, fair and reasonable. Yes, he could lose his temper – when sorely tried. But when he found it again, he would take a breath and listen. But he rarely changed his mind. During my 15-year tour of duty on the county beat, the commission chairs would come and go –Michael Lomax, Mitch Skandalakis, Mike Kenn, Karen Handel, John Eaves. Tom was the thread that strung them all together. He was a man of many parts. Tom was usually courtly and well-spoken. He was knowledgeable on the issues and brought a store of history and background to every commission session.
See LOWE, Page 9
Pigskin: The southern fried favorite It is a widely known fact that fall Saturdays in the south belong to college football. I have friends who live and die by Georgia, Auburn and other southern football powerhouses and will become enemies with their family members during rivalry games. According to a Harris Poll, reported by ESPN in 2014, “more southerners call college football their favorite sport.” This is a surprise to no one who pays attention to southern culture. I’ve always appreciated this dedication, even fanaticism, to their favorite college football teams, but come basketball season, I can’t help but notice that enthusiasm disappears. As a huge college basketball fan, I sometimes feel like an outsider in football country, even though my team is in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). (Go Kentucky! Go
KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com
... With your support, maybe, just maybe, you’ll look forward to March Madness for more than just the office pool. big blue nation!) It’s embarrassing to go to games against other SEC teams and barely see any fans representing the opposing teams. As a fan, it would be great to have intense, sustaining SEC basketball rivalries.
Basketball is so out of place in the south, at the last University of Georgia verses University of Kentucky matchup, the Georgia fans created a pamphlet on how to cheer at basketball games. People on social media poked fun at Georgia by saying, “the orange orb is the basketball. The circular metal thing with a net is the rim. We are ‘Georgia,’ the home team.” I may be a bit biased because my team is pretty good at basketball, but I also don’t ignore my school during football season when they’re lucky if they win one SEC game. It’s completely fine to love college football, but at the very least, save a little of that school spirit even when they’re down 30 points in basketball in a round ball game. And with your support, maybe, just maybe, you’ll look forward to March Madness for more than just the office pool.
Safest:
COMMUNITY
Continued from Page 1 percent and property crime at 10 percent, even though property crime is more prevalent. “Though property crime is far more prevalent, we believe that the violent crime data points are more relevant when calculating the relative safety of these cities,” Quinn said. That produces a logarithm for each city’s population to use as a multiplier for the city’s gross crime statistics. That gives the cities and towns a score that ranks the cities relative to each other. Additionally, the comparison only looked at cities and towns in Georgia that had populations larger than 5,000. With smaller populations, there is generally little crime anyway, and conversely one or two crimes can skew a small town’s numbers in the wrong direction. ValuePenguin ranked cities by population in “three buckets.” Those were cities of 10,000 to 15,000; 15,000 to 25,000; and greater than 25,000. Nevertheless, when compared with all the “buckets,” all cities between 10,000 and 25,000 or more, Johns Creek still ranked No. 2 in the state and Milton No. 3. Only Cherokee’s Holly Springs had a better score. “To me, the fact that Johns Creek and Mil-
Lowe: Continued from Page 8 But he could also be stubborn, volatile, irascible and opinionated. Forty years on the job will do that. It took an astute politician to negotiate the internecine battles of Fulton politics. He told me his secret: “It’s all about getting four votes on the [seven-member] commission. If you can get four votes, you can get anything you want,” he said. As the sole Republican for most of those 40 years, he learned to how to negotiate his quid pro quos to get what he could for his district. That was the system for most of those 40 years.
johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 9
... We believe that the violent crime data points are more relevant when calculating the relative safety of these cities.” BRIAN QUINN ValuePenguin co-founder ton are larger towns is even more impressive,” Quinn said. “We’ve typically seen small towns at the top of the list as we’ve done these studies. Having two towns of this size in the Top 5 is impressive to say the least.” In addition to crime statistics, ValuePenguin thought it appropriate to also factor in the number of citizens who leave each city. The thinking is cities in which people do not want to leave are also an indicator of “feeling safe.” Quinn said ValuePenguin is focused on providing the best in-depth research and interactive tools for all financial decisions. “Whether it’s finding a health insurance plan or choosing a credit card, our team develops unbiased analysis so you can get the most value out of your options,” he said.
I liked Tom a lot because he always took my calls, no matter how thorny the topic might be. That’s rare. He did a lot of good for his district, too. We have the Chattahoochee Nature Center because of his unfailing support. He was a staunch defender of Grady Hospital, knowing it served a great need as the only Level 1 trauma center and the best burn unit in the state. He understood what development could do for all of Atlanta and supported it. He kept his private life private. For instance in 2008, he and his dear wife Bettye donated $2 million to Auburn University. But very few knew that. Tom and the Lowe family also established a scholarship fund in 1991 known as the Thomas M. Lowe Sr. Memorial Endowment
for Civil Engineering. People who had an itch to run for the post grew old waiting for Tom to retire. He was always saying the next election would be his last. So the wannabes would bide their time. No one wanted to challenge the legend. He may have meant it when he said it – every time. So it was always once more into the breach. It was a job he truly loved. He liked to do good for people. So I never really believed the last campaign would truly be his last until it was. Just like that, Tom was really stepping down. When the news came last week that he died at the age of 86 having spent almost half his life as a commissioner, it just showed he had timing as well.
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10 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
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State to allow traditional math in local schools Years of lobbying for choice is big win for Fulton Schools By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA – It appears the decades-long Math Wars between the Fulton County School System and the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) may finally have ended. Last month, the State Board of Education adopted the Georgia Performance Standards for Foundations of Algebra, Algebra I and Geometry courses, giving school districts the option of teaching integrated or traditional math in high school. The change also allows state-mandated assessments to align with either approach selected by school systems. Previously, the state only offered an integrated assessment for math, creating headaches for systems like Fulton Schools, which taught primarily traditional math. For Fulton School Board member Katie Reeves, the decision ends a battle started more than a decade ago. “I was thrilled to see the Georgia Board of Education vote to include traditional (or discrete) math as an option with an appropriate assess-
ment for high school,” said Reeves. “Our community and our board have long advocated for the opportunity to return to traditional math.” The current ninth grade algebra and 10th grade geometry curriculums have also been realigned to ensure proper sequencing of the courses, noted state officials, ensuring the right standards are in the right courses. The addition of the Foundations of Algebra course as a ninth grade option will fill a huge gap for students who need additional math support after middle school. Math scores have plummeted across the state among ninth- and 10th-graders for the past several years since there were no options for students whose math skills were weak. According to GDOE officials, Foundations of Algebra is a ninth grade math for students who have completed math in middle school, but still need support to succeed in high school math. The course is aimed at students who have low standardized test performance and/or have had difficulties in previous math classes.
State School Superintendent Richard Woods, who took office just two months ago, said he was keenly aware of the challenges math has posed for school systems across the state. He applauded the decision by the State Board of Education to adopt the new math proposals. “One of the keys to moving education forward is to ensure we remain child focused and classroom centered,” said Woods. “We can never look past the daily challenges facing our students and teaching professionals.” During the one-month comment period on the proposed changes, more than 600 provided input, leaning heavily toward options for school systems in the math curriculum. Fulton Schools has been teaching traditional math for years under a waiver from the state, but having the end of year assessments match the curriculum is a huge win as well. “Just the increased choice in textbooks alone will have a significant impact on our students and teachers,” said Reeves. “The board has set aside funds [to purchase] math textbooks that align with a
A brief history of the ‘Math Wars’ ATLANTA – The math shot heard ‘round the world was fired by the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) in 2004 when the curriculum made a sharp turn away from traditional math toward integrated math. Instead of a “discrete” approach to math, like algebra, geometry and trigonometry, students would now receive a blended, or integrated, curriculum that incorporates all concepts into the standards each year. The approach also encouraged an emphasis on “why?” instead of simply solving problems, adding a language arts component that frustrated students and parents alike. Four years later, after three years of falling test scores and increasingly irate parents, the Fulton School System officially fired back. In one of her first duties as the newly hired superintendent in spring 2008, Cindy Loe announced a return to a more traditional approach to math for the 2008-09 school year. The Math Wars had officially begun, pitting the Fulton County School Board against the Georgia Board of Education. But Fulton was on the losing side for years. Although Fulton had received permission to teach traditional math in 2009, the state-mandated assessments would remain integrated, forcing schools to teach enough integrated concepts to allow students to pass the state math tests. For the past few years, Fulton officials have lobbied the state to support local math choices. It was the election of new School Superintendent Richard Woods that appears to have shifted the tide in Fulton’s favor. Fulton School officials note they will be working on a “transition plan” in the coming months, along with the purchase of textbooks, to allow full implementation in the fall. – Candy Waylock more traditional approach to math [and] we expect to purchase the textbooks this spring for use in the fall.” She noted the option to
teach integrated math only for the past several years was a Georgia decision, since Common Core standards always had both paths.
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johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 11
TO TEST OR NOT TO TEST?
Parents take stand against state-mandated assessments by ‘opting out’ By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com
What Ga. says about mandated assessments ATLANTA – A spokesman for the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) said state law sets the “expectation” that all students be tested, aiming for 100 percent but allowing for 95 percent. State and national laws do not contain an “opt out” policy, and school districts do not have the power to waive the Milestones requirement completely. “Local districts will need to decide, as a matter of local policy, what to do with a student whose parents refuse testing and who reports to school during testing. Such matters are, by necessity, a local decision,” said Matt Cardoza of the GDOE. Under federal law, a school district could potentially lose funding for their Title I schools, however no other sanctions are in place for non-Title I schools. In Fulton County, federal dollars make up a very small part of the overall district budget. Cardoza said while the state can only mandate the “opportunity” for testing, parents still need to be aware of outcomes. “We encourage schools to discuss the parents’ concerns and [discuss] what Georgia Milestones is and isn’t,” he said. “It is important to inform parents of any potential unintended consequences of their decision.” – Candy Waylock
NORTH FULTON, Ga. – The systemwide testing schedule for the Fulton County School System (FCSS) this year takes an entire page AVOSSA to list the myriad of assessments given to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Included are writing assessments, checkpoints, end of grade tests, remedial tests, re-tests for tests and enough alphabet soup acronyms – GAA, GMAP, GKIDS, ACCESS for ELLs, PSAT – to make your head spin. Many are state assessments; some are local, but all require time out of the regular school day to administer. Add regular tests, quizzes and projects for each class and one can understand why there is increasing pushback to limit excessive testing. In January, Fulton Superintendent Robert Avossa sent an open letter to state legislators outlining the burden placed on schools with stan-
dardized tests. “Teachers are spending more time proving they’re doing their jobs than being allowed to do them, and students are spending more time proving they can pass a standardized test than being given time to truly master the content,” he wrote. “Students
need to be tested, but our heavy reliance on testing leaves little room for teachers to plan, educate and improve outcomes for students.” The assessment triggering the most outrage is the national assessment – PARCC – tied to the Common Core Curriculum standards. Federal law
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mandates an annual assessment of the state curriculum. Most Common Core states are using the PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) to meet the federal requirement. Last year, Georgia – a Common Core state – opted out of PARCC. The state will begin administering its own state assessment, the Georgia Milestones Assessment, in grades 3 through 12 this spring. This test replaces the CRCT in grades 3-8 and the End of Course Tests in high school. But a growing “opt out” movement is being seen across the country as parents fight back over national testing. The Chicago School System recently tried to opt out completely from the PARCC, only to reverse course when federal funding was threatened. Last week, students in Albuquerque, New Mexico, staged a walkout during PARCC test days, adding to a long list of student protests in other states. Here in Georgia, the optout movement is quieter, but growing. Kay Hutchinson, a parent of three children in the Fulton School System and a former
elementary school counselor, questions the data being gathered with the Milestones, noting it takes time away from instruction and is used mainly to satisfy federal requirements, not to move achievement forward. “Data is powerful and valuable, but I don’t trust [the Milestones] are going to give me valuable information that I can’t get from other [classroom-based] assessments,” said Hutchinson, who serves on the Governance Council for Northwestern Middle School. This year, scores from Milestones will be used only for benchmarking, since results are not expected back till late fall; but the pressure is still on to do well. This creates a high level of stress on students and teachers and takes away time from meaningful instruction in the classroom, said Hutchinson. “The testing companies have converged with government interests and it’s simply not working for the children,” said Hutchinson, who has started an organization, PACT with TACT, to provide information to parents. “I have plenty
See OPTING, Page 12
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12 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald
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Michael O’Neal Singers perform Opting: Rachmaninoff’s ‘Vespers’
Continued from Page 11
ROSWELL, Ga. – The 160-voice Michael O’Neal Chorus has prepared for two March performances of one of the greatest pieces of choral music ever written, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s All-Night Vigil, Opus 37, more commonly known as Vespers. O’Neal first sang the work in the summer of 1989 as a member of the Robert Shaw Festival Singers in France. The recording made that summer ultimately won a Grammy and is considered by many choral music aficionados to be one of the finest recordings ever made of this work. O’Neal said his love for the piece led him to program it for MOS in 2004, and those performances resulted in some of the most positive comments
If you go What: Michael O’Neal Singers present Rachmaninoff’s All-Night Vigil, Opus 37 When/Where: Saturday, March 14, 7:30 p.m. at Johns Creek Methodist Church Sunday, March 15, 3 p.m., at Roswell United Methodist Church Cost: Tickets at the door $22/Adult; $17/Student/ Seniors they ever received, from both audience members and singers. It is now 11 years later and the MOS singers are bring-
ing back this choral masterpiece. It will perform “Vespers” twice, at Johns Creek United Methodist Church Saturday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. and at Roswell Johns Creek United Methodist Church Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m. Somewhat surprisingly, Rachmaninoff was often insecure about the worth of his compositions. However, he felt supremely confident about his glorious “Vespers.” Following the first performance in 1915, he was so moved he told the singers that he could never imagine having written such a piece, even in his dreams. O’Neal calls it an experience “breathtaking beauty” and a “monumental musical treasure.”
Health & Wellness Fair in Alpharetta ALPHARETTA, Ga. – St. James United Methodist will host their 10th annual Health and Wellness Fair and their first 5K Charity Race Run/Walk on March 14. The 5K Run / Walk starts and ends at Saint James UMC, and begins promptly at 7:30 a.m. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for youth under age 18. A race T-shirt is included in the price. Space is limited so register early.
The annual Health Fair begins after the 5K race and will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. This year’s health fair focuses on total fitness (mind, body and spirit) and features over 40 venders, products and services as well as free health screenings. Doctors will conduct health seminars as well. Visit stjamesumc.org for more information.
of information on my children’s performance from their teachers and what they do in the classroom.” She has sent a letter to the FCSS opting out her children from the Milestones, joining several others parents who have sent similar requests. Hutchinson believes that once parents know their rights, more opt outs will follow. The testing coordinator for the FCSS, Connie Maggert, did not respond to a request for comment on Fulton’s opt-out procedure, or the number of parent requests received. However, letters sent back to parents initially indicated an optout process was not available and all students present on the test day would be tested. More recently, after apparent prodding from the Fulton Board of Education, Maggert’s responses have informed parents a response will be forthcoming as a policy is formulated. Hutchinson said her letter for opt out requested her children be allowed to participate in “in age appropriate, selfdirected activities” while oth-
ers are testing. Some districts are making children who are opting out place their heads on their desks for the duration of the testing, she said. School Board member Katie Reeves of Alpharetta said she has always championed parents’ rights when it comes to their children’s education. She noted state law only mandates the “opportunity” for testing be provided, not the actual taking of the test. “Our board has a legislative position that supports a more limited approach to high stakes testing. I believe that the pendulum is now swinging back in this direction. How much change and how quickly that change will affect the testing landscape is still an unknown,” said Reeves. She did say that parents need to be aware the Milestones, like the CRCTs, will ultimately be used for advancement at certain grade levels. “As far as opting out, I believe it is very important for all parents to know and understand how the tests will be used, which grade level tests are used to determine grade advancement and what impact may be imposed on the local district for participation falling below certain state or federally determined levels,” said Reeves.
COMMUNITY
Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Future: Continued from Page 1 creation of the vision for that plan. “I want to capitalize on the tremendous brainpower represented in this room today,” he said. “I want you to focus on your legacy. Not just the personal legacy you hope to leave for the generations that come after you, but the legacy for Johns Creek embodied in each of us.” At the heart of Johns Creek’s future lies the imbalance of the city’s tax base. Eighty-one percent of the property tax base is on residential property, and only 19 percent is on commercial property. “That is just not sustainable,” Bodker said. If that proportion could be moved by growing the commercial base to 20 percent or perhaps 25 percent, it would have an effect out of proportion to just the raw percentages. The reason is that commercial property does not increase the need for services in the way residential growth does. Police
City: Continued from Page 4 said Public Works Director Tom Black. “The improvements will make people’s commutes smoother, and the sidewalks and trails will make it safer for people to walk and jog and enjoy the outdoors.” Motorists should anticipate occasional lane closures. The project is expected to be completed around mid-fall. The city has already made extensive improvements on Jones Bridge Road from Old Alabama to Waters Road, and between Douglas Road and Abbotts Bridge Road.
Look for more next week Mayor Bodker goes into more detail why The District is the right vehicle to secure the city’s future.
If the commercial base cannot generate more revenue, then the burden becomes greater for the citizens to maintain neighborhood services.”
and fire coverage is not as great, in that the risk is less. There are far fewer calls for service to commercial properties. They are, for the most part, closed at night and do not require police, emergency or fire responses. They do not demand parks and recreation service either. Much of the paving required and traffic enhancements fall on the property owner. In addition to property taxes, commercial property also pays annual business licenses, sales taxes, inventory tax, hotel/motel tax and other fees. The city has identified more than $130 million for pent-up capital needs, especially streets and other roads. Some of those needs were incurred from years of neglect before cityhood. Others are accruing because of the
city’s own growth. “If the commercial base cannot generate more revenue, then the burden becomes greater for the citizens to maintain neighborhood services,” the mayor said. A second issue for Bodker is the city “is not putting down lifelong roots.” The city continues to win accolades, such as its ranking as 14th among the 50 best cities in America for families (and the only from Georgia). The city was also recently named the Safest City in Georgia (see Page 1) for cities of 25,000 residents or more.
it safer for people to walk and jog and enjoy the outdoors.” Motorists should anticipate occasional lane closures. The project is expected to be completed around mid-fall.
The City has already made extensive improvements on Jones Bridge Road from Old Alabama to Waters Road, and between Douglas Road and Abbotts Bridge Road.
MIKE BODKER Johns Creek mayor
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More work slated on Jones Br. Road JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Johns Creek Public Works Department is scheduled to start widening Jones Bridge Road between Kimball Bridge and State Bridge roads in early March. The project will widen Jones Bridge Road from two to four lanes, plus a center turn lane. It also includes adding a traffic signal at North Bridge shopping center, and a 6-foot sidewalk on the west side of Jones Bridge Road and a 10-foot-wide trail on the east side. “This is part of an on-going effort by Public Works to improve Jones Bridge Road, which is one of our more heavily traveled roads,” said Public Works Director Tom Black. “The improvements will make people’s commutes smoother, and the sidewalks and trails will make
“But despite these accolades, many families don’t call Johns Creek home once the kids are out of school,” he said. To thrive long-term, Bodker said the city needs families with roots deeply planted here. That means raising the quality of life to maintain its competitive edge. While Johns Creek is among the top 2 percent of the largest cities in America (389th among 20,000 nationwide), it needs to do better to maintain property values in the future. “Unlike most of those other cities, we lack a true central business district – a down-
town,” he said. Downtowns attract people with their entertainment, businesses, shops and the opportunity for social interaction of all kinds. Not only are they revenue generators for a city, they give a city life. A downtown also generates civic pride through its restaurants, arts and culture, social meeting places and unique atmospheres. Such places also attract more of the same to provide richness and diversity. “It creates a place where people will want to live,” he said. “Right now, most of those opportunities are lost to us.” It is also difficult to attract the young professionals, who are the life’s blood for the existing businesses and corporations that are already here or that the city would hope to attract. A vibrant, “happening” downtown would be a huge attraction for the millennials. Bodker’s solution is “The District,” a self-contained transformational district centered around Technology Park that would be a catalyst for all of those things that would move the city forward to sustainability.
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14 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
Arrests:
Continued from Page 3 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and violation of license restrictions. ►► Jeannette Rose Blake, 50, of Belleterre Drive, Milton, was arrested Feb. 4 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Sandra L. Molineaux, 50, of Acworth was arrested Feb. 6 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Christopher Brent Black, 45, of Stevens Creek Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 7 on Highway 9 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Thomas Matthew Hinkson, 28, of Atlanta was arrested Jan. 5 on Alpharetta Street in Roswell for DUI, aggressive driving and improper use of horn. ►► Tyler Louis Poole, 22, of Marietta was arrested Jan. 31 on Mansell Road in Roswell for DUI. ►► Cesar Rojas, 37, of Jonesboro was arrested Feb. 1 on Warsaw Road in Roswell for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Steven Michael Morse, 57, of Woodstock Road, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 1 on Atlanta Street in Roswell for DUI and headlight requirements. ►► Kathrina Beth Howerton, 26, of Lawrenceville was arrested Feb. 1 on Ga. 400 in Roswell for DUI, suspended license and attempting to elude a police officer. ►► Douglas E. Blankenbeker, 56, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, was arrested Feb. 2 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane and taillight violation. ►► David Alexander Harden, 23, of Worthington Hills Court, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 3 on Creekside Way in Roswell for DUI. ►► Alex Nowlan Glenn, 34, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was arrested Feb. 5 on Old Dogwood Road in Roswell for DUI. ►► James Michael Reilly, 57, of Mountain Creek Drive, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 5 on Pine Grove Road in Roswell for DUI, speeding and open container.
Drug arrests ►► Nicholas Leon Webb, 25, of Hickory
Mill Lane, Milton, was arrested Feb. 21 on Avensong Crossing in Milton for
possession of marijuana. ►► Stacy Scott, 33, of McDonough was arrested Feb. 18 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana. ►► Jerome Titus Francis, 30, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 1 on Academy Street in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, speeding, expired tag and possession of drugrelated items. ►► Antonie Keith Hunter, 37, of Smyrna was arrested Feb. 15 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana. ►► Quang Minh Le, 36, of Liberty Lane, Roswell, was arrested Dec. 17 on Liberty Lane in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Laura Frances Ward, 32, of Liberty Lane, Roswell, was arrested Dec. 17 on Liberty Lane in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Terrance Dubwayne Hudson, 44, of Ivywood Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 30 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana, suspended registration, no insurance and possession of drug-related items. ►► Dante A. Nieto-Gonzalez, 21, of Hembree Road, Roswell, was arrested Jan. 31 on Old Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana and expired tag. ►► Darin Michael Friedman, 46, of Chaffin Ridge Court, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 2 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana, possession of cocaine, failure to maintain lane and failure to dim headlights. ►► Gregory Cirius, 25, of Douglasville was arrested Feb. 3 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana, failure to dim headlights and hindrance of a police officer. ►► Darrion Vonray Johnson, 29, of Milner, Georgia, was arrested Feb. 3 on Old Holcomb Bridge Way in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Irmiyaa Williams, 25, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 3 on Creekside Way in Roswell for possession of marijuana, possession of a schedule IV controlled substance and obstruction of a police officer. ►► Thomas Lawrence Boemker, 29, of Dunwoody was arrested Feb. 3 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana and failure to signal when turning. ►► Alec Elijah Bethune, 21, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 4 on East Crossville Road in Roswell for possession of a schedule IV controlled substance, expired license and expired tag.
COMMUNITY
Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 15 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Cumberland Island: Largest of Georgia’s barrier islands Fortified by an extensive homemade breakfast at the Spencer House Inn, our B&B Aunt Bea, Mary Neff, packed us off with box lunches for our big adventure on the remote barrier island reachable only by boat. We waddled the two blocks to the ferry in no time. Although Georgia only has 100 miles of shoreline, we are home to 30 percent of the barrier islands on the Atlantic Seaboard. And Cumberland is the largest and fairest of them all with the longest expanse of unsullied littoral landscape from sea to shining sea – 17 glorious miles of deserted sand and strand. Truly, this is a bucket list destination. I had made a previous visit to the island before they offered the comfortable and comprehensive six-hour Lands and Legacies tour. If you are not among the fortunate few, another ranger does offer a onehour one-way hiking tour to the Dungeness ruins. Dungeness, a 59-room mansion, was one of two homes built by the Carnegie family. It burned mysteriously in 1959, and the ruins are now preserved by the National Park Service. You are free to meander the beach at will afterward, but don’t be late for that last ferry
JEMILLE WILLIAMS
Senior contributor on TripAdvisor jemille@bellsouth.net
or you’ll have to spend the night on the porch of the Visitors’ Center. For day-trippers, the whole caboodle rides on your back. You portage back the wrappers and containers of everything you consume with you on the ferry. No big thing for us, but a whopping big deal for the campers. The primitive campers even have to carry home their used toilet paper. Yeah. There is another option besides the rough and ready camping. The Greyfield Inn runs about $500 per night and will transport you to your lodgings and lend you a bike. We had to laugh as we rode in climate-controlled (relative) comfort of the tour van on the primitive roads. We fared far better than the pricey Greyfield’s guests, roughing it in the back of a pickup truck on wooden benches. Although a chill wind blustered, we were cozy in the van. We also enjoyed the luxury of
Cumberland Island’s feral horses have free reign over the island. flushing toilets at two of our stops. For slackers like me, the L&L tour is a bargain at $39, which includes ferry and park admission. Our guide regaled us with fascinating facts as we bounced along. We paused here and there to gaze as feral horses grazed and lazed disinterestedly. We were warned that they may look like nice horsies, but they can be downright unfriendly – so look, don’t touch. The Carnegie mansion Plum Orchard was a remarkable delight. What unexpected luxury on this remote island. After we enjoyed our picnic lunches on its grand sunny stairs, our ranger led on us on
informative tour. It is the same vintage as the Biltmore House, but on a far less grand scale. I especially enjoyed the downstairs Downton Abbey-like kitchen and servant bell system. The most unique aspect of the tour was seeing the little African Baptist Church, where one of the most storied and clandestine weddings of the last century took place. America’s son, John Kennedy Jr., took Carolyn Bessette to wife there. He had personally worked on the chapel himself through the years when visiting a friend, Carnegie descendant Gogo Ferguson. Kennedy swore
he’d wed there one day. And so he did. Our charming ranger declared that we wouldn’t leave until all had posed on the steps for the photo that flew round the world – handsome John-John kissing the hand of his lissome bride on its steps. We scored a rare sighting of Cumberland’s own celebrity, the cantankerous Cumberland Curmudgeon, who had bellowed bawdy songs as the Kennedy ceremony was taking place just paces away from her Sanford & Son shanty. The glitterati had come to her doorstep, and she rudely shooed them off. For information, visit nps. gov/cuis.
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16 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
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We offer a small business resource program, and part of that is providing meeting space for these small businesses DEBORAH LANHAM, chamber vice president for business development
JOIN TODAY: 770-993-8806 • WWW.GNFCC.COM
GNFCC free meeting space popular feature Members’ perk provides space to pitch customers, train staff By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – You say you would love to invite select prospective clients to tell them how your business can uniquely help them be successful? You want a truly business-like setting and the Waffle House is definitely not it? Well if you are a Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce member, problem solved. Chamber members can use meeting space at the GNFCC offices. It is one of the benefits of membership, said Deborah Lanham, chamber vice president for business development. “We offer a small business resource program, and part of that is providing meeting space for these small businesses,” Lanham said. “We help with business consulting through the Small Business Development Center and the Small Business Administration. But we also allow our small businesses to come in and use conference rooms at the chamber, whether it is a small one or large, based on their needs.” There, they can have their own workshop seminars and invite target consumers or businesses to come in and listen to a presentation of the services they provide.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Deborah Lanham, vice president/business development at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, at dlanham@gnfcc.com.
“They usually combine those presentations with some education about their field. So they teach prospects about what’s out there, say databreach information. Then they show how their company can help,” she said. Lanham has had Microsoft come in to present in partnership with chamber member Land Systems and provided personal laptops to see how certain programs would help their businesses. “It kind of flies under the radar. But it is something I talk about each month when I host Chamber 101,” she said. “I share with the members how we can provide space to host their seminars, their workshops and even their own events like a like a network lunch.” It’s all about helping chamber members accomplish their
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
From left, Carmichael Consulting Solutions’ Neil May, Leah Fairman of Fairman the Connector and Mike Bartoli with Schooley Mitchell co-host a successful seminar at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce’s offices. goals and reaching their target market or consumer/potential partner. These services are part of what the chamber offers small businesses – 50 employees or less. Even the larger companies can reserve space for interviewing new employees. These are fully equipped with flat screens and the technology to integrate their presentations. Lanham said the chamber can accommodate small groups or an audience of up to 100 people. Members can bring in their own catered food and speakers. Sometimes two or three companies with similar, but
not identical services will pitch to the same group that the companies have recruited. “The room is free to them as a value and a benefit of their chamber membership. You must be a member. There are many ways to take advantage of the space. We’ve had nonprofits use space for their board meetings. We have had training where the small businesses are the experts,” Lanham said. “Companies will bring in their sales force to find out how to effectively use social media for sales. The bottom line is we want to make our members successful,” she said.
If the hosts need a caterer or some other service provider, the chamber provides choices from their member list. Companies of all sizes can use the perk, even when they could do it in-house, as a way to change the environment and think outside the box. Recently three companies combined for a luncheon where each company explained how their business could help other businesses. Leah Fairman is an entre preneur who has been successful in marketing to Fortune 500 companies and shows
See NFCC, Page 50
BusinessPosts
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Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 17
New generation of leaders must step forward Editor’s note: This is the seventh in a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” The report, which reflects and synthesizes the views from more than 500 individuals surveyed and economic vital signs recorded, has been used to chart the North Georgia economy and real estate for more than 25 years. Bold ideas need strong leaders to execute them. It’s time to recognize and fill the impending voids created when the current generation of leaders moves on. The tales of the poultry industry leadership have been told over and over around the campfires of North Georgia. Names like Jewell, Cromartie, Arrendale, Hatfield, Otwell, Wilson and Bagwell are legend-
It was the best of times, it FRANK was the worst NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman of times, it The Norton Agency was the age of wisdom, it ary leaders, pioneering leadership in an emerging time was the age of pulling us out of hard scrabble Appalachia into a 20th century foolishness. economy. The Stewart family of Habersham County, recognizing the emerging need for telephone service, blueprinted and built Standard Telephone into a major network serving tens of thousands. John Jacob heard of an emerging broadcast system called cable and ran lines everywhere years
before there was adequate content to go through those lines. Stalwart Ray McRae took the foundation of a small crossroads bank, First National, and morphed it into First Bancorp with 20 affiliate banks and $13 billion in collective assets.
Managing risks in your small business Are you managing risks in your small business? Have you done a thorough assessment of the potential risks your small business has? Do you have a risk management process in place to help you mitigate your risks? Small business owners typically do not understand or protect their business from the potential risks they have, and subsequently, suffer the consequences. The first step in risk management is to identify the risks that you have. In small businesses, some risks are common; while at the same time, there are unique risks for a specific business. Assessing risks, such as business interruption, operations, personnel and liability losses, will help a small business owner understand their risks. Evaluating the probability that a specific risk will materialize will help you prioritize your time and focus to put together a mitigation plan for all of your top risks. Having contingency
W o m e n
Bold leadership takes bold risks…financial, personal and political capital to ensure that something will be successful. In these times as the recessionary water has calmed, leadership is needed more than ever. We are overdue for rekindling those new ideas that were set aside in time of strife. We are overdue for collective visioning. From Jasper to Pendergrass, we have licked our wounds and missed numerous opportunities in the interim, but it’s time... no, it is past time... to move forward. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.” It’s time to pick ourselves up, dust off our britches and make something happen. Lead…for the next generation.
NewBusinessSpotlight
DICK JONES
Founder & President Jones Simply Sales
plans in place in case a risk emerges will help you to better manage the situation. Having insurance to mitigate certain risks, like theft, fires or accidents, is always a prudent step to managing risks. Adopting an enterprise-wide risk management program will also help ensure that you have plans in place for the top risks in your small business. Continuously monitoring risks and the impact they may have to your small business will help you better manage risks in your small business.
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But while these community businesses created thriving private enterprise, they pulled up the communities around them. Yes, they made money… lots of money, but they also created generational wealth for employees, stockholders, vendors, suppliers and subcontractors around them. This is American entrepreneurship, the trickle-down economy at its finest, and we freely admit our own business prospered selling homes to a growing population, insuring poultry farms and selling investment property to help diversify our investors’ financial portfolios. There is no guilt or shame when a new industrial park is created through the private investment of locals…quite frankly there should be more of that.
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18 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald
AWARDS »
BusinessBriefs Berkshire Hathaway awards top performers
GAMING INTELLIGENCE AWARDS
Scientific Games’ Chief Executive of Lottery Jim Kennedy, (center) receives the “2015 Lottery Supplier of the Year Award” from Gaming Intelligence Awards hosts Steve Hoare (left) and Bobby Mamudi (right) during ICE Totally Gaming in London February 3-4.
Scientific Games receives 2 international awards LAS VEGAS — Scientific Games of Alpharetta recently received two awards at ICE Totally Gaming 2015, the world’s largest business-to-business gaming event. The company received the 2015 Lottery Operator of the Year Award at the eighth International Gaming Awards and the 2015 Lottery Supplier of the Year Award at the Gaming Intelligence Awards. The company’s lottery center, which employs approximately 1,200 professionals, is located in Alpharetta. The company develops technology-based products and services and associated content for worldwide gaming and lottery markets.
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ATLANTA — Berkshire Hathaway’s Top 50 agents celebrated with an awards luncheon at the St. Regis Hotel in Buckhead. The “20 Year Legend” award was presented to John Willnow of the Alpharetta-North Fulton office. The No. 1 Top Team honors were given to Jill and Dan Petersen, leaders of Petersen Properties of the Smyrna-Vinings office, and the No. 1 Top Individual Agent award was presented to Susan Fitzgerald of the Peachtree City office. Recognized as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Legends were the Butler Swayne Team, led by Melissa Swayne, Stephanie Butler and Laura Falk; Stephen Walker of the Peachtree City office; Susan Fitzgerald of the Peachtree City office; and Brent Hoffman of the Gainesville office.
EVENTS »
SEMCO makes preparations for annual home show ROSWELL, Ga. – Roswell-based SEMCO Productions will again present the Spring Atlanta Home Show, Georgia’s largest home show, at the Cobb Galleria Centre March 20 – 22. The annual event will bring together more than 350 experts in the home remodeling and landscaping industries to showcase the latest products and services designed to remodel, repair and refresh homes of all sizes and styles. The event includes three days of expert speakers on a variety of home remodeling subjects including gardening, home repair, decorating and aesthetic enhancements. New this year will be a presentation by Danna Cain of Home & Garden Design on how to create a dog-friendly landscape. See www.AtlantaHomeShow.com for days and times of each presentation.
FINANCE »
Tellermate expands in North America ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Cash accounted for 72 per-
Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@appenmediagroup.com cent of the transaction value for general merchandise retailers in the United States, according to a late 2014 report from Richmond Federal Reserve Bank. That has meant good business for Tellermate. Following a record of 132 percent year-over-year growth in North America, Tellermate is expanding both its sales and service organizations at its Alpharetta headquarters. “The report is consistent with other studies that we have seen,” said Jim Stone, Tellermate vice president of marketing for North America. “Tellermate invented weight-based cash counting over 34 years ago and we understand the importance of providing retailers with technology that enables fast and accurate cash counts.”
HEALTH »
Pharmaceutical company begins clinical trial ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Clearside Biomedical, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing drug therapies to treat blinding eye diseases, has announced the first patient’s enrollment in a Phase 2 clinical trial for treating macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion. Approximately 40 patients will be enrolled at 10 sites in the United States. Retinal vein occlusion is a sight-threatening disorder that affects approximately 2.2 million people in the United States.
Biota Pharmaceuticals acquires Anaconda Pharma ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Biota Pharmaceuticals has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Anaconda Pharma, a privately held biotechnology company based in Paris, France. Anaconda Pharma has completed a Phase 2a clinical trial of a patented antiviral for the treatment of anogenital warts, as well as the orphan disease recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Both are caused by human papillomavirus. Under the terms of the agreement, at closing, all of Anaconda Pharma’s outstanding shares will be acquired for 3.5 million shares of Biota common stock and $8 million in cash. Biota will fund the cash portion of the purchase price with cash on-hand.
NewBusinessSpotlight
Pollo Tropical opens in Johns Creek JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – For those who want to get something with a kick to warm their hearts while the snow falls outside, Johns Creek residents are in luck. The newest Pollo Tropical location has opened near the intersection of Medlock Bridge Road and State Bridge Road. The grand opening was Friday, Feb. 27, featuring a ribbon cutting and day-long activities for the family. During the festivities, 100 people won free family meal coupons and a grand prize winner got free chicken for a year. Johns Creek’s Pollo Tropical is located at 5815 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. For more on the company and its menu, visit www.pollotropical.com.
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
The newest Georgia location of Pollo Tropical, a Caribbean-themed fastcasual restaurant, opened on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek.
CALENDAR
EDITOR’S PICKS
Submit your event online at johnscreekherald.com
Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 19
Send
me your event...
SHANNON WEAVER
Calendar Editor THE DROWSY CHAPERONE calendar@ appenmediagroup.com Alpharetta High School Chorus
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.
MUSIC:
and Alpha Theatre present “The Drowsy Chaperone” - A musical within a comedy at AHS Auditorium, 3595 Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta. Friday, March 13 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. Contact Director David Gay, gayd@fultonschools.org for more info.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS CONCERT
Who: Alpharetta City Band Where: St. David’s Episcopal Church, 1015 Old Roswell Road in Roswell When: Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. Cost: Free and open to the public Contact: Don Nahser, 770-475-9684 or donnahser@aol.com
THEATER:
QUEBE SISTERS
Grace, Sophia and Hulda Quebe perform swing, vintage country, bluegrass, jazz & swing standards, and Texas style fiddling at the Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street in Cumming. Saturday March 14, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets range from $20 to $25. Visit playhousecumming.com for more info.
What: Fellowship Christian School presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Where: Fellowship Christian School, 10965 Woodstock Road in Roswell When: Thursday, March 12 at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $10 Contact: 770-993-1650 Web: fcspaladins.org/news_resources
BLOOD DRIVE AT PINECREST
What: These two Grammy winning artists team up for a special evening of jazz excellence. Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta When: Friday, March 13 Times: 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Cost: $39 Web: thevelvetnote.com
THE WINTER’S TALE
What: In this mellowest and least cynical of the mature Shakespearean masterpieces, love, Arcadian innocence and magic are triumphant in the end. Where: The New American Shakespeare Tavern, 499 Peachtree St NE in Atlanta When: Satuday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $25 to $39 Web: shakespearetavern.com
Lads and lassies, come celebrate Luck of Avalon by enjoying Irish music, dancing and—of course— green beer at Avalon, 2200 Avalon Boulevard in Alpharetta. Tuesday, March 17, 2 p.m. 10 p.m. Visit experienceavalon.com for more info.
AMAZING TECHICOLOR DREAMCOAT
EVENTS:
SAUNDERS SERMONS AND NICHOLAS PAYTON
LUCK OF AVALON
Where: Pinecrest Academy Lower School gym, 955 Peachtree Parkway in Cumming When: Thursday, March 12 Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact: cettmueller@ pinecrestacademy.org Web: redcrossblood.org Info: Donors are asked to eat iron rich foods, drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids and get a good night’s rest before donating blood. Photo ID required.
GLITTER: BACK TO THE FUTURE
Guests will enjoy dinner by Talk of the Town, entertainment by 80’s cover band Mighty McFly, as well as live and silent auctions at The Cottage School, 700 Grimes Bridge Road in Roswell. Saturday, March 14, 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Visit cottageschool. org for more info. Hours: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $10 Web: autreymill.org Info: Registration required. Ages 6 to 11.
SUSTAINABLE VEGETABLE GARDENING
What: Master Gardeners explain how to utilize environmentally sound sustainable practices in your vegetable garden. Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza in Alpharetta When: Thursday, Mar 19 in Alpharetta Hours: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Web: nfmg.net Info: Registration info on website
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NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT
What: West Forsyth High School Productions present the Georgia premiere of “Nice Work if You Can Get It.” Where: WFHS Auditorium, 4155 Drew Road in Cumming When: Friday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $10 students, $12 adults Info: tickets at www.showtix4u.com
What: St. Patrick’s Day authentic cooking demonstration class featuring delicious Irish food with Chef Judith McLoughlin. Where: Publix Alpharetta Commons, 4305 State Bridge Road in Alpharetta When: Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Cost: $45 Contact: 770-751-8560
DOLL TEA PARTY
What: Doll tea parties in the Summerour House will include a variety of activities like making doll accessories, dress-up and games. Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road in Johns Creek When: Sunday, March 15
TEE OFF FORE KIDS
What: This Tournament Style Golf event allows teams to compete against other golfers for a chance to win prizes while supporting Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together. Where: Top Golf, 10900 Westside Parkway in Alpharetta When: Wednesday, March 18 at 1 p.m. Cost: $100 individual tickets Web: safft.org
SPORTS
20 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
AYFA rebrands as North Atlanta Football
Name change comes with changing cities, schools By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – There’s a lot to a name. For the Alpharetta Youth Football Association (AYFA), it is 40 years of sports and youth in the North Fulton region. After 40 years, the AYFA is rebranding itself. It will now be the North Atlanta Football League (NAFL). “We wanted to be more emblematic of our community,” NAFL Athletic Director Rusty Reed said. When the AYFA was created in 1975, there was only one high school in the area – Milton – which was located in Alpharetta. Since then, the region has grown significantly, with more high schools and, recently, more cities. Now, AYFA kids come from many cities and many schools. It is more than simply “Alpharetta,” Reed said. Players come from throughout the region to play against others from other cities, he said. While the majority of players are from Milton and Alpharetta, many surrounding municipalities are represented. As a feeder program to the high school teams, Reed said the kids playing will play with each other – and against each other – from elementary school through high school while
learning proper instruction and care. “We want our boys to grow up men,” Reed said. “We want them to take up the challenge life has to offer.” Reed and the former AYFA took a proactive approach to player safety when it began to become an issue among schools and families. “As it relates to player safety, concussion awareness and promoting USA Football’s Heads Up Tackling initiative, NAFL is one of the leading youth football programs in America,” said Buddy Curry, former NFL All Pro and 1980 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. “They are implementing baseline testing programs, in game sideline measures and tools that are unprecedented in youth football…hands down, one of the best leagues in the country.” Reed said NAFL will compete with other youth feeder programs in the north suburban area. The regular season and playoff game schedule will include both inter-league games between NAFL teams plus games with programs like Marietta, Roswell, Kell, Pope, Sprayberry, Walton and Wheeler youth feeder programs. “This is building young men and leaders,” Reed said. For more information on the NAFL and to register, visit www.nafl.club.
Seated, Northview High School senior Kelsey Prince signs her letter of intent to swim at the University of Pennsylvania. Joining her are her parents Greg and Karen Prince. In back, from left, are head coach Colin Maloney, Principal Brian Downey and assistant coach Raymond Brown.
Northview’s Prince to swim for Penn JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Northview High School senior Kelsey Prince has signed a letter of intent to swim for the University of Pennsylvania, a member of the NCAA Division I Ivy League Conference. Prince has been a varsity letterman and state meet finalist for coach Colin Maloney since her freshman year. She is the Northview record holder in the 100-meter butterfly, 200 IM and 200 medley relay. Prince won the silver medal in the 200 IM at the 2014 Georgia 5A state championships, garnering All-State and All-American status.
Prince not only excels in the pool, but also in the classroom. She carries a 102.5 GPA, and has been named a Georgia Certificate of Merit recipient, an AP Scholar with Distinction and National Merit Commended. Prince swims year-round for Dynamo Swim Club under the direction of coach Franz Resseguie, where she is a USA Swimming Junior National qualifier and a USA Swimming Scholastic All-American. Prince represented Georgia at the 2013 Southern Zone Championships, winning the gold medal in the 400 IM.
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Johns Creek High School senior Hannah Froats signs her letter of intent as parents Carolyn and Peter look on. At rear are Principal Gail Johnson, Assistant Athletic Director Steve Hall, and coach Theo Economos.
Johns Creek’s Froats signs with Furman University JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek High School senior Hannah Froats will be attending Furman University on a soccer scholarship. Froats has participated in soccer for the past 10 years. She has been a varsity starter all four years at Johns Creek High School, earning the title Defensive Player of the Year in 2014. Other accomplishments include being named a three-time member of the AllRegion team and receiving the Scholar Athlete award the past three years. She is serving as varsity captain during her senior year.
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SPORTS
johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 21
Local athletes off to fast start in college McClain, Gridley earn SEC baseball honors By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – A number of local athletes playing college baseball are off to strong starts this season, with two North Fulton players recently earning weekly Southeastern Conference awards. Former Northview pitcher Reggie McClain was selected SEC Pitcher of the Week in consecutive weeks to open the 2015 season. McClain, a transfer to Missouri from Manatee Community College in Florida, pitched a three-hit shutout over eight innings, walked none and struck out 10 in the Tigers’ season-opening 1-0 victory over Iona. He was selected SEC Pitcher of the Week and repeated that honor when he tossed a complete game four-hit shutout in his next start against Sam Houston State, which won 43 games last year. McClain again did not walk a batter and struck out four, getting the win when one of his teammates hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to break a scoreless tie. McClain pitched another outstanding game in his third start, allowing three hits and one earned run over seven innings in a 3-2 victory over Illinois-Chicago. Missouri again won the game in the bottom of the ninth, leaving McClain with a no-decision. He walked three and struck out 10. In his first three starts, McClain worked 24 innings, allowing 10 hits, three walks and one earned run with 24 strikeouts. Ryan Gridley, who helped lead the Milton Eagles to the AAAAAA state championship series in both 2013 and ’14, was named SEC Freshman of the Week for his play for the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Gridley, who starts on the infield, played a big role in Mississippi State’s recent 4-0 week, scoring or driving in the tying or go-ahead run in three of the four games. Gridley batted .455 for the week, scoring six runs and driving in seven with four walks, three extra base hits and two stolen bases. In his first 12 starts this season, Gridley batted .410 with 13 runs, 10 RBI, nine walks and a .538 on base percentage. After starting at shortstop for the Eagles, who won a state title in 2013, Gridley has started at both second and third base for the Bulldogs. Also starting on the infield for
Mississippi State is former Northview player John Holland, who played at Florida State as a freshman before being injured his sophomore season and transferring to a junior college prior to coming to Mississippi State. Holland is batting .250 in 12 starts, splitting time between first base and second base. Former Milton pitcher Jason Richman is off to a terrific start this season at Georgia Southern. In eight relief appearances covering 18 innings, Richman allowed just seven hits, six walks and no earned runs while striking out 22 batters. Richman, a junior, was 3-0 coming off a sophomore season in which he went 5-1 with a 1.20 ERA and three saves, leading the NCAA and setting a school record with 47 games in relief. He worked 90 innings last season with 78 strikeouts. Former Chattahoochee player Hunter Thomas is starting in the outfield for Georgia Southern and has
three homers, seven RBI and eight walks in his first 11 starts as a senior. Mercer’s pitching staff features two seniors from Alpharetta who combined for 22 scoreless innings without allowing an earned run to open the 2015 season. In four relief appearances, Dmitri Kouris was 2-0 in 15 innings of work, allowing five hits and four walks with 15 strikeouts. Kouris was 16-6 in his first three seasons, with his ERA dropping from 3.90 as a freshman to 2.94 as a sophomore to 1.15 last season. He has 14 saves the last two seasons, even though he missed part of his junior year with an injury. Eric Nyquist won his first start of 2015 for the Bears and had not allowed a run in seven innings, yielding just three hits and three walks with seven strikeouts. In 13 starts last season, Nyquist won eight games with a 3.12 ERA. Former Roswell player Matt Meeder starts at shortstop as a sophomore for Mercer, and in
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his first 12 starts was batting .310 with a .556 OBP, drawing 13 walks. Former Northview player Jason Delay is off to a strong start at Vanderbilt after sharing catching duties as a freshman last season for the Commodores, who lost in the NCAA Championship series. In his first seven games of 2015, Delay was batting .412 with six RBI. He made 38 starts as a freshman and hit .246 with 13 RBI. Sean McLaughlin, Delay’s teammate at Northview, is in Georgia’s starting rotation, and was 1-1 in his first four games, including two starts. McLaughlin, a junior, struck out 13 in 13 innings and had an ERA of 2.70. Former Johns Creek pitcher Connor Jones was 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA and a save in his first four relief appearances as a sophomore. Former Centennial pitcher Dustin Beggs is starting for Kentucky after transferring from Georgia Perimeter. Beggs was one of the top pitchers in junior college in the country
last year, going 11-4 with a 1.65 ERA and 125 strikeouts. This season, he is 1-1 with a 2.08 ERA in three starts, striking out 12 and walking two in 17 innings. Beggs was a 17th round draft choice last year by St. Louis. Former Northview infielder Tyler Krieger is off to a torrid start as the DH for Clemson, batting .465 in the first 11 starts of his junior season with 10 runs scored and eight RBI. Alex Schnell, a freshman from Milton, is 1-0 with a 2.92 ERA, working 12 innings in five relief appearances. Georgia Tech has a number of North Fulton players filling key roles. Former Johns Creek player Brandon Gold is batting .379 in eight starts at third base with seven RBI, and is 1-0 with a 1.26 ERA in three pitching appearances, including one start. Gold made 50 starts at third base last season as a freshman. Matt Gorst, Gold’s teammate at Johns Creek, has made five relief ap-
See COLLEGE, Page 53
22 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
SPORTS
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ST. FRANCIS 47, SACA 45:
Dodson’s late goal lifts Knights to title St. Francis girls win on basket at buzzer By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com MACON, Ga. – Things were not looking good for the St. Francis girls as they battled Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy on even terms into the final minute of their state championship game last Saturday. The Lady Knights lost their top player – sophomore center Kasiyahna Kushkituah – on fouls, and also gave up the lead when SACA’s Brooke Carthon made one of two free throws. The Knights quickly turned the ball over, providing the Lady Warriors the opportunity to hold for the last shot. The Lady Warriors ran off most of the final minute, but the Knights’ Maya Dodson
stepped in front of a SACA pass and quickly got the ball to guard Nichel Tampa, who headed for the St. Francis goal in a hurry. Tampa was cut off before she could reach the basket and had the ball slapped away, but Dodson happened to be in the right spot to scoop up the loose ball. She scored just as the final buzzer sounded. The basket gave the Knights a 47-45 victory and a second Class A private school championship in three years. It was the third straight year the two teams have squared off in the state tournament, with the Warriors winning last year in the semifinals en route to a state title. The Knights started four
Young St. Francis girls played like veterans By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com MACON, Ga. – St. Francis girls’ basketball coach Aisha Kennedy already had a talented young team assembled for the 2014-15 season when she received an unexpected gift just as the school year was beginning. Maya Dodson, who played as a freshman last season at Alpharetta, transferred to St. Francis, adding to a very talented, but very young team that had won a state title in 2013 before losing in the semifinals last year. “I had never seen her play before she came here,” said Kennedy, but Dodson meshed nicely with her new teammates and is a good academic fit at the Alpharetta prep school. Dodson was part of a well-balanced, but inexperienced squad that started four sophomores and a freshman. For key parts of the state championship game, they had four freshmen and a sophomore on the floor. Kennedy said leadership was a concern for such a young team, but that was not evident to those saw St. Francis play. The team played with poise in tense situations in the Class A private school championship game, with Dodson in the right place to make the game-winning play at the buzzer in a 47-45 victory over Southwest Atlanta Christian. “These kids are very special,” Kennedy said. “They may be sophomores, but they play like upperclassmen.” The team’s lone senior starter was sharpshooter Abby Grant, who will play in college at Syracuse. Even though Grant was not a major factor offensively in the playoffs, opponents still had to keep close watch on her and she wound up leading the team in scoring for the season. Nichel Tampa and Taja Cumming were the starting guards, with both capable of leading the Knights’ fastpaced offense. The Knights’ guards were also a quick and pesky defensive duo, with Tampa stepping up offensively late in the season when Cumming was sidelined with an injury. Dodson and Kasiyahna Kushkituah gave the Knights a pair of 6-footers who can run the floor, rebound and defend on the interior, with both displaying agility rare for girls of their height. Freshman Jala Jordan and junior Yasmine Ratliff were the two main backups and gave the Knights two more 6-footers, with Ratliff providing interior defense and Jordan an energetic, all-court player. Dodson said she came to St. Francis intent on working hard and improving as a player, with the hope of being part of a championship team. She succeeded on all counts, and along with her teammates will be looking for a repeat title next year.
sophomores and a freshman for most of the season, and for a lengthy stretch in the championship game had four sophomores and a freshman on the floor. “They don’t play like sophomores,” said St. Francis coach Aisha Kennedy, who guided the Knights to a state title two years ago. “This is a special group.” Kennedy prepared the Knights with a demanding schedule of out-of-state games, with the team’s in-state schedule including a regular season win at Southwest Atlanta Christian. St. Francis finished with a 28-3 record and went undefeated in games against Georgia opponents, losing once to a team from Little Rock, and twice to teams from Alabama, one of them coming in overtime. SACA ended up 28-4. The Knights jumped out to a 12-6 lead in the opening period. That six-point margin matched their largest advantage of the night, and the quarter ended in a tie at 14. Dodson and Tampa keyed the Knights’ quick start, but St. Francis struggled offensively in the second quarter, managing just eight points, to trail 28-22 at the half. Kushkituah picked up her third foul in the final minute of the half and spent a good portion of the second half on the bench in foul trouble. Kushkituah made the most of her time on the floor in the third quarter, scoring two of the Knights’ three goals in the first 90 seconds of the period to quickly tie the game. Dodson and Tampa sparked another surge, and freshman reserve Jala Jordan hit a key basket as the Knights stretched their lead back to five. St. Francis led 40-35 heading to the fourth quarter, but suffered through another offensive lull and scored only two points the first four minutes of the fourth quarter. SACA pulled even before Kushkituah put the Knights back on top with a basket from close range. After the Warriors tied the game at 42, Taja Cumming hit one of two free throws before the Warriors regained the lead at 44-43. The Knights went back on top with under a minute to play before the Warriors tied the game at the free throw line. After a St. Francis turnover, SACA had the chance for a last shot before Dodson’s steal led to the game-winning play. Dodson and Tampa led the Knights with 15 points each and Kushkituah added 10.
AL LEVINE/STAFF
Maya Dodson had 15 points in St. Francis’ win including a buzzer beater to seal the title. Dodson led the team with seven rebounds and helped lead the defensive effort against Nicole Martin, Southwest’s leading scorer, who finished
with 11 points. St. Francis could have won in a less stressful fashion, but missed 10 of their 12 free throw attempts.
SPORTS
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johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 23
ST. FRANCIS 96, GREENFOREST 81:
Knights repeat title with convincing win St. Francis 43 of 48 at foul line in finals By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com MACON, Ga. – The Class A boys’ private school state championship game was expected to be one of the most hotly contested of the 14 title games played last week, but one brief spurt midway through the opening period effectively decided the outcome. A 10-1 run by St. Francis broke a 7-7 tie, and Greenforest Christian never was able to seriously threaten the Knights. St. Francis went on to a 96-81 victory and a second consecutive state title. It was the third straight state championship game for the St. Francis boys, who lost to Greenforest in the 2013 title game. The Eagles made frequent attempts at cutting into the St. Francis lead, but every time they came close, the Knights responded. Greenforest came within five points in the third period and cut the deficit to three in the fourth quarter, but that was as close as the Eagles got before St. Francis quickly went back ahead by 10. Drew Catlett, in his first season as the Knights’ head coach, had a few anxious moments as his team got a little sloppy at times and continued to play at a non-stop pace, despite maintaining a lead that hovered around 10 points for most of contest. “That’s how we play,” Catlett said after the game. “We kept attacking and kept scoring points.” The Knights went to the basket hard and often against the Eagles, who kept trying to
stop the St. Francis trio of Kobi Simmons-Jordan, Malik Beasley and Kaiser Gates, but wound up sending them to the free throw line a combined 49 times. That did not turn out too well for the Eagles, as Simmons-Jordan made 13 of 15 from the foul line, Beasley was 13 of 14 and Gates was nine of 10. Combined, the three connected on 35 of 39 attempts, with their teammates chipping in by sinking eight of nine free throws. The two teams committed a combined 61 fouls, with five Greenforest players fouling out .The Knights had two players foul out, but managed to keep both their inside players on the floor for extended minutes against a tall and physical Greenforest front line. Simmons-Jordan led the Knights with 27 points. Beasley and Gates added 23 each, but St. Francis also got significant contributions from center Josh Coleman and backup post player Chance Anderson. The two combined for 18 points and 14 rebounds and enabled St. Francis to hold its own on the inside. “Josh and Chance were huge for us,” said Catlett, with the Knights containing all of Greenforest’s inside scoring threats. The Eagles relied primarily on their outside shooting, with their inside players limited to just seven total field goals. The Knights, who finished 29-3 with two of their three losses coming in national tournaments, were tied 7-7 early when they went on their brief but effective scoring burst that broke the game open. Gates broke a 7-7 tie with a basket on the inside. Anderson scored the first two of his 11 points, also from close range, after a Greenforest free throw. Jordan-Simmons and Beasley then threw down a succession
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AL LEVINE/STAFF
St. Francis’ Malik Beasley scored 23 during the Knights’ victory over Greenforest. Beasley shot 13 of 14 from the foul line.
of dunks triggered by Greenforest turnovers, and the lead quickly reached nine. The Eagles hit a threepointer at the buzzer to cut the Knights’ lead to 24-15 at the end of the period, and St. Francis kept Greenforest at arm’s length the rest of the way. Greenforest finished 27-2, earning their spot in the finals with a 57-56 victory over previously unbeaten Athens Christian in the semifinals. “They really did a good job defensively holding teams down,” Catlett said of Greenforest. “But we can score points. We played this way most of the year. We don’t like to hold the ball.”
By MIKE BLUM news@appenmediagroup.com MACON, Ga. – After three seasons, three state championship appearances and two state titles, the core group of players who have made up the St. Francis Knights will soon be going their separate ways. Four of the team’s five starters and one of the main reserves were seniors, leaving first-year head coach Drew Catlett with a major rebuilding situation next season. Catlett will have a formidable block to build around, as Kobi Jordan-Simmons will be back for his senior season, along with key reserves Chance Anderson and Wallace Tucker. The Knights will graduate forward Malik Beasley, guard Chris Steele, center Josh Coleman and versatile Kaiser Gates, along with reserve Nathan Waller, who was also one of the Knights’ top football players. Three of the graduating starters are headed to college to play basketball. Beasley, who led the team in scoring at 22 points a game, is headed to Florida State. Gates, who led the team in rebounds, was a close second to JordanSimmons in assists and averaged almost 14 points, will play at Xavier in Cincinnati. The 6-foot-9 Coleman is headed for Coastal Carolina. Catlett is hopeful he can also find a scholarship for Steele, the Knights’ unheralded fifth starter who was also a vital part of the championship teams of the past two seasons. Beasley, Gates and Jordan-Simmons averaged around 57 points per game between them, teaming up for 73 points in a 96-81 victory over Greenforest Christian in last Saturday’s championship game. Sharing the ball was never a concern for the Knights, with the team’s three leading scorers combining for more than 11 assists per game, quite a few of which concluded with resounding dunks. “We had a lot of chemistry,” said Beasley, who has been teammates with Gates since the two were youngsters. Both Gates and Beasley admitted not being teammates anymore will take some getting used to, but they will take a treasure trove of memories with them to college. “It was unbelievable going out with a championship,” said Gates, who was proud of his team’s play in the title game, although he was a bit peeved with the number of turnovers he committed in the fast-paced game. Although Jordan-Simmons will be the lone returning starter, he is confident the Knights will make a spirited defense of their state championship as they shoot for three in a row next year. Jordan-Simmons said the Knights came into the season with the expectation that they would win a second straight state championship, and that’s exactly what they did. Much of the responsibility for winning a third straight state title will fall on his shoulders next season, but he said he is ready for the challenge and looks forward to continuing the team’s outstanding stretch of play in 2015-16.
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24 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald
COMMUNITY
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Residents win cruise with Expedia Part of Appen Media Adstravaganza event By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Two Milton residents have won the vacation of a lifetime simply by reading their newspaper. Each week for six weeks, the papers of Appen Media Group – the Alpharetta-Roswell Revue and News, Milton Herald, Johns Creek Herald and Forsyth Herald – featured the Expedia Cruise Ship logo hidden
somewhere inside. Readers had to find the logo and enter to win on northfulton.com, telling exactly where it was found that week. Fifteen people won small prizes each week as part of the event campaign. The grand prize winner received a free cruise, courtesy of Expedia Cruise Ship Center in Alpharetta. The grand prize winners were Jenny and Anthony Lopresti, of Milton. Jenny is a real estate agent with the
Harry Norman, Realtors North Fulton office. Jenny was flipping through the paper one day and saw the special ship logo. She entered to win on northfulton.com with the logo location, and it was her name that was drawn out of more than 700 entries as the grand prize winner on March 2. “It made my day. I’m so excited,” she said. “We’re going on a cruise!”
JONATHAN COPSEY/ STAFF
The Loprestis – Jenny and Anthony, center and right – are the winners of the Expedia Cruise Ship Centers contest for a free cruise. With them is Vince Bonfanti, franchise owner of the Johns Creek location. The Loprestis’ 24th anniversary is in August, a few days before they have scheduled to leave for their cruise. They booked to go to Cozumel, Belize and Roatan in Central America. “We are going to celebrate,” Anthony said. The Alpharetta location of Expedia Cruise Ship Centers offered the cruise. They are celebrating being open in their new retail location near Kroger off State Bridge Road for just over one year. “We wanted to celebrate and make somebody happy. That’s why we are here,” said Vince Bonfanti, the franchise owner. He said the choice to
advertise with his community newspaper was a good one. “We have had a good response from the ads,” he said. “Community papers are our primary ad vehicle, and it works.” Expedia Cruise Ship Centers is a sister company of Expedia.com. They offer cruises and vacations all around the world. With 4,000 consultants, the company has existed since 1988. The Alpharetta location is the first and so far only Georgia location. Expedia Cruise Ship Centers is located at 10945 State Bridge Road, Suite 105, Alpharetta, Ga. 30022. They can be found online at www.cruiseshipcenters.com/Alpharetta.
Blotter:
A shot in the dark
Continued from Page 2 friend had not only stolen items from her home, but they then tried to pawn them. According to police, the son was found pawning items, including a Ruger pistol, which had gone missing from his mother’s Sonata Lane home. There was also a violin allegedly belonging to the son’s girlfriend. The son and his friend were arrested for burglary.
Employee steals, eats $1,000s ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A local employee is accused of stealing or even eating thousands of dollars in merchandise. Employees of the Marshalls store on North Point Parkway told police they caught employee Hasani K. Powell, 34, of Hapeville, attempt to take merchandise without paying for it Feb. 26. When pressed, Powell allegedly admitted not only to this theft, but also to taking $1,414 in merchandise, $1,161 in cash through fraudulent returns and eating $65 worth of food while working. Powell was arrested for shoplifting, theft by deception and theft by taking.
MILTON, Ga. – A Dorris Road resident reported someone took shots at his driveway light Feb. 22. The resident reported he heard what sounded like five shots about 5 a.m. coming from his driveway. He then heard a vehicle speed off. In the morning, he saw the light was damaged. He said he found shell casings to a 22long rifle below it.
Movers lose truckload of goods MILTON, Ga. – A resident had problems Feb. 24 with a moving company that may have lost a truckload of his property. The victim told police he moved to the Milton area a few months ago from California. He hired a moving company to pack up and store his property until he was ready to move in to a home. He said they packed four truckloads of goods. When the victim was ready to move in, he said the company only shipped two-and-ahalf trucks’ worth of property. He asked the company, which allegedly demanded $9,000 more in moving costs to deliver the rest of the man’s property. When it arrived, the victim said it was heavily damaged.
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johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 25
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PHOTO BY RAFTERMEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Spring at Avalon is beautiful, fresh and fun Spring is on it’s way and with it brings fresh excitement to the streets of Avalon. Weather it’s strolling the sidewalks taking in all the new Spring fashion, playing cornhole on the lawn or enjoying dinner on one of the beautiful outdoor patios, there is something for everyone this season at Avalon. Inside is your sneak peak! Plus, Lindsay Marie winner of Avalon’s Perfect Year, gives us an update of what she’s been up to.
26 | March 12, 2015
AVALON
#AvalonPerfectYear:
Avalon resident living ‘perfect year’ By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Lindsay Marie is living the good life. She has an apartment in Avalon and spends her days shopping in all the stores and eating in all the restaurants. Lindsay is Avalon’s Perfect Year winner. She was picked from hundreds of hopefuls to live rent-free for a year at one of Avalon’s luxury apartments, and spend her days living life to the fullest, all while blogging, vlogging, Tweeting and shooting pictures of one of North Atlanta’s hottest properties. “I try to show what my life at Avalon is like,” Lindsay said. “I make sure I show it off and showcase all the great things here.” She first heard about Avalon on the radio in her hometown of Clarkesville, Georgia, a small town in North Georgia. “I didn’t know anything about Alpharetta,” she said. “But I knew I had to do this.” She made a video showing Avalon and community voters why she should win the contest. As a 21-year-old millennial, she is well-versed in social media and has her own YouTube channel for fashion videos. She said this probably helped her chances. It also helps that she is an aspiring photographer, currently taking classes to work (hopefully) in the fashion industry. In December 2014, she was in the top three contestants. Then they named the winner. “They said my name and I hit the floor,” she said. Her days are spent living in the lap of luxury. She lives in a one-bedroom apartment overlooking downtown Avalon. When she wakes up, she hits one of the exercise spots – Exhale or Flywheel, which in itself shows just how much the experience is already changing her lifestyle. “I didn’t do much with fitness until I came here,” she said. When a gym is just down the stairs, it’s hard to pass it up, she said. After exercising, she gets breakfast She said she often goes to Goldberg’s café for hot chocolate, which she says is the best she has ever had. For the rest of the day, her schedule is fairly open – she can get a facial at the Cosmetic Market or get her hair done at DryBar. She can visit the Regal Cinemas movie theater before getting lunch at Bantu or Marlow’s Tavern. Shopping at the many retailers can take up the afternoon until dinner. She can eat out at Kona Grill or Oak Steakhouse or eat in after visiting Whole Foods. During all this, Lindsay is keeping an eye on what would make good blog material – pictures, video and people. The biggest amenity of living at Avalon is how close everything is. “Pinkberry is right out my window,” she said. “Everything is at my fingertips. I can experience everything and never have to leave.” She walks everywhere, and all locations are just a few steps away from her front door. In the evenings, she spends her time relaxing with the residents of Avalon. There are often events or simple meet-ups with her neighbors, all of whom share the same experience of living in Avalon. “Anybody of any age will enjoy living here,” she said. “It has everything for everyone.” To follow her adventures in Avalon, as well as to learn more about the venue itself, visit www.experienceavalon.com.
Lindsay Marie is living the perfect year – she lives in Avalon and blogs about her experiences in the new “live, work, play” development in Alpharetta.
AVALON ORVIS:
March 12, 2015 | 27
Get outdoors this Spring with Orvis We’re looking forward to seeing you at Orvis Alpharetta, our newest retail location! Now’s the time to prepare for the warmer weather ahead with our latest spring styles. It’s also the perfect time to sign up for our FREE Fly Fishing 101 and 201 classes. You’ll learn the basics in 101 and then get out on local waters for a chance to catch your first fish in our 201 class. And of course, at Orvis Alpharetta, you’ll find the finest in outdoor-inspired apparel for men and women along with the world’s finest fly-fishing rods, reels, and gear. Orvis, Avalon As America’s oldest mail-order outfitter and continually-operating fly fishing business, Orvis offers a wide assortment of men’s and women’s sportswear, fine gifts, home furnishing, travel accessories, and pet items. Services include fishing and shooting schools, international sporting and eco-travel agency, and the Orvis-endorsed network of lodges, outfitters, and guides. Orvis commits 5% of pre-tax profit to protecting and sustaining the natural world. 678-367-4767 www.orvis.com
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Spring Fashion Another Day in Paradiso Tommy Bahama went to Italy to enjoy some il dolce far niente – “the sweetness of doing nothing.” They came back with their spring collection to help you relax in style. The collection moves from the business to boardwalk with understated men’s polos to women’s fantastic floral bikinis, dresses, and an array of luxurious linens, bold colors and stripes. Each piece turns classic style into something fresh and fun and everything created is designed to be a favorite. Tommy Bahama, Avalon Inspired by the relaxed sophistication of coastal living, Tommy Bahama is dedicated to the good life. Stylish, upscale offerings include apparel for men and women, footwear, jewelry, accessories and home décor, all designed to help you relax in style. 678-248-5161 www.tommybahama.com
Florals and TieDye; This Spring it’s all about COLOR There are so many new trends to fall in love with every season, right now fab’rik is currently obsessing over modern florals and new age TieDye. We love a floral in vibrant colors cut into a unique dress, top, shorts or even vests (as shown). It’s also hard not to fall in love with the effortless yet somewhat reckless feelings of TieDye. With everything under $100 and new inventory arriving daily, why not try more than one spring must have!
Refresh Your Look
28 | March 12, 2015
Van Michael Salon Founded in Buckhead in 1984 by brothers Van and Michael Council, Van Michael Salons are fullservice, Aveda-concept salons featuring top stylists from around the world and offering the latest in haircuts, color and styling. With existing locations in Buckhead, VirginiaHighlands, Midtown, Sandy Springs, Norcross and East Cobb, Van Michael Salon at Avalon is the seventh Atlanta location and the first in Alpharetta. Van Michael Salons’ complete dedication to client satisfaction has earned frequent “Best Of” honors from notable publ The Atlantan, and Jezebel and a loyal client base of locations use and sell Aveda products and offer tiere be made by calling 678-987-3678.
Fab’rik, Avalon Fab’rik is an Atlanta native women’s boutique and a shop-o-holic’s dream, delivering high style fashion (clothing, shoes, accessories, etc.) without attitude or sticker shock. Fab’rik hosts Rockstar Parties where you can invite a group of girlfriends to come to the store after-hours for a private shopping party complete with refreshments and everything in the store 20 percent off, including sale items. 678.248.5562 fabrikstyle.com
Kinnucan’s caters to a little bit of everyone; 4 trends to suit every taste this Spring Bare Necessities We’re seeing more and more basic tees and denim on people of all ages. Basic pieces like V-neck Tees and Flowy tanks in flattering shapes and various colors, pair perfectly with denim- destroyed is back in for spring, as are boyfriend jeans. Gypsy Soul to Blame Gypsy Soul to Blame is all about embracing the ultra-bohemian look with fringe, crochet, and feathers. This look was widely popularized by celebrities and festival-goers at places like Coachella. Dazed and Confused Dazed and Confused is a trend all about being Groovy, Baby. This look is best completed with oversized floppy hats, round “Lennon” sunglasses, and vintage-looking jewelry. Life is a Picnic This Spring/Summer, the biggest trend is the gingham print a classic pattern that can be worn a variety of ways. Utilize the brighter color spectrum of gingham, and style with classic
pieces- think: pearls, chino shorts, fitted shape, pastel tones. Or focus more on the neutral/ darker ginghams, and style with pieces like denim cutoff shorts, Converse sneakers, layered necklaces, for a loose fitted shape. Kinnucan’s Specialty Outfitter Kinnucan’s has been serving the Southeast for over 25 years andcaters to the idea of a premier
lifestyle, carrying trend-setting, innovative styles while maintaining tradition with trusted core brands. As the go-to store for the best and most sought after products, Kinnucan’s fulfills guests’ needs for top brands in specialty apparel, everyday casualwear and outdoorinspired retail. 678-389-4240 www.kinnucans.com
The Vintage Wine and Tapas Bar at Whole Foods Market Avalon The Vintage, upstairs at Whole Foods Market Avalon, puts a unique spin on dining in awesome Alpharetta. Treat your taste buds to a bottle of wine and seasonal tapas with friends. Sample an array of fine wines available for purchase in-store from our Enomatic machine. Discover the new concept of wine-on-tap, or delight in our homemade sangria. We welcome you to “wine down” with us every Wednesday from 4-6PM with live music and follow us on social media for other upcoming events. The Vintage is also available for private parties. For booking information please contact our concierge. Whole Foods Market Avalon, 2800 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30009; 770-664-6300 www. wholefoodsmarket.com/Avalon
LON
March 12, 2015 | 29
lications including ELLE, Allure, Atlanta Magazine, more than 100,000 Atlantans. All Van Michael Salon ed pricing based on service level. Appointments can
Marlow’s is located next the Regal Cinema Hours of Operation Sun-Thu: 11:30am to 11pm Fri-Sat: 11:30am to 1am (678) 248-5230
CRÚ Avalon brings Napa-style winery feel to Atlanta Craving a wine trip? CRÚ is an urban restaurant and wine bar in Atlanta’s new Avalon shopping center. CRÚ is known for their cheese and wine flights which change daily. Sexy Reds, Backpacking Through Europe, and Wine Spectator Top 100 are just a few of their popular flights, which perfectly complement their eclectic Napa-style cuisine and wood burning pizzas. Their unique wines are offered three different ways: by the bottle; the glass; or the flight. “Flights, are CRÚ’s most popular offering because it allows guest a variety of wines in a laid back manner.” says Patrick Colombo, owner. CRÚ’s flights are presented to each guest in a unique stainless steel carrier serving three - 2 ounces wine pours. Fights are paired by region, varietal, or style, and presented with carefully researched “Tasting Note Cards” allowing patrons insight into each wine in their flight. CRU, Avalon 678-248-5181 www.cruawinebar.com
Ted’s Montana Grill Inspired by the pioneer spirit of the American West, Ted’s Montana Grill is committed to delivering honest food served with genuine hospitality. Our food is a reflection of the great American ideal: bold and unapologetic. Where the burgers are hand-packed, the lemonade fresh-squeezed and our signature halfsour pickles are always on the house. A modern interpretation of classic comfort food, Ted’s offers a variety of timeless dishes, from steak to chicken, seafood to salads. We are proud to serve the largest selection of bison dishes you’ll find anywhere, hand-cut in house every day in our on-premise butcher shop. And true to our roots as a fresh food restaurant, every item is sourced locally when possible and prepared from scratch using the finest ingredients. No compromises, no short-cuts, no matter what. 6100 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta, GA 30009. 13 locations across Atlanta including Cumming and Norcross. www.tedsmontanagrill.com
Delightful Delicacies
Meet me at Marlow’s! Marlow’s Tavern features the “Best of the Best” in American tavern fare served in a modern atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse combination of classic dishes that are updated and elevated to gourmet level. Marlow’s has a warm neighborhood yet contemporary feel that is the perfect complement to John Metz’s moderntavern menu. “We wanted to create an approachable neighborhood spot with Marlow’s Tavern and allow our guests to enjoy great tasting food in a casual and warm environment” say Metz.
Drybar Drybar is a refreshingly simple concept: No Cuts. No Color. Just Blowouts, for only $40. One of the best parts about Drybar, besides the awesome blowouts, is the experience. Unlike a traditional salon, at Drybar you sit at a beautifully appointed bar while watching chick flicks and being served complimentary beverages. They’re known for their top-of-the line customer service and relentless focus on making every client they see look and feel like a million bucks. With over 40 locations, two here in Atlanta, Drybar Alpharetta-Avalon,4155 Avalon Blvd and Drybar Buckhead, 102 West Paces Ferry Rd NW. Drybar Alpharetta offers a private VIP Room with 4 styling chairs - perfect for small parties! Drybar also has their own product line crafted for the perfect blowout at home; it’s available for purchase in their shops, online, Sephora and QVC.
AVALON
Breath New Life Into Your Routine
30 | March 12, 2015 Road Runner Sports Your Alpharetta Road Runner Sports is hands-down the destination for people who run, walk, train, and enjoy fitness at any level. At the heart of the World’s Largest Running and Walking Store is Shoe Dog, a fun, fast, and totally free fitting analysis. You’ll watch your feet in action and learn what type of shoe and support will amaze your feet! You’ll also shop 100% confident with your unbeatable 90 Day Test Run Promise. Test your shoes for up to 90 days – if you don’t like them for any reason, bring ‘em back for full store credit. Never settle for shoes you don’t LOVE! Friendly Fit Experts provide top brands and expertise; Adidas, Asics, Brooks, Mizuno, New Balance, Nike, Saucony and way more! Get into gear with awesome apparel, electronics, nutrition, and fun in-store events! Run in to your hometown store today and feel like family! Roadrunner Sports, Avalon 678-248-5205 www.roadrunnersports.com
Columbia PFG: Spring Apparel Launch Visit Columbia Sportswear’s first Performance Fishing Gear [PFG] store at Avalon, dedicated to all things fishing. The store features the most technical and comfortable fishing gear for anglers around the world. Each aspect of a PFG product is thoughtfully designed with the perfect fabrics, construction and industry leading technologies to enhance every fishing experience. In addition to apparel and footwear, the store offers a full line of innovative accessories with an attention to detail that is appreciated by all types of anglers. Columbia, Avalon 678-713-7977 www.columbia.com
Urban Casual Experience
Artisan Cheese Flight
Wine Spectator Award of Excellence
Named Coziest Bar by ZAGAT
Gift Cards
Stone Fired Pizzas
Wine Flights
Wine Country Bistro Menu
CRU Food & Wine Bar 300 Avalon Boulevard Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 CRUAWINEBAR.com 678-248-5181
AVALON
March 12, 2015 | 31
Timeless Art of Living Well Multi-family Residences Come home to a community unlike any other—a Haven of one-and two-bedroom apartment homes in a selection of three rich interior finishes. Take advantage of every amenity you can imagine along with Concierge service that delivers the best of the Avalon lifestyle— timesaving, lifeenhancing, resort-level luxuries— right to your doorstep. Finally, open the door to walkability; simply stroll down the boulevard for the best of shopping, dining and fun at the center of it all. Currently leasing a variety of distinctive one- and two-bedroom apartment options, all with access to the best Avalon has to offer, Haven is more than modern luxury living. It’s a place to call home. 855-912-8154 leasinginfo@havenatavalon.com
Pediatric • A Adult • Orthodontics
www.johnscreekdentaltown.com www.johnsc
Welcome to Your Dental Home Michael Hansen, D.D.S. Pediatrics
Ryan Schwendiman, D.M.D. Adult Dentistry
Troy Davidson, D.D.S. Pediatrics
Michael Crosby, D.D.S. Orthodontics
THE COLLECTION AT FORSYTH 770.887.8807 410 Peachtree Pkwy. Bldg. 400, Ste 4250 Cumming, GA 30041
ALPHARETTA DENTAL TOWN 770.622.1515 5260 Avalon Blvd. Alpharetta, GA 30009
JOHNS CREEK DENTAL TOWN 770.662.1515 4330 Johns Creek Pkwy., Ste 100 Suwanee, GA 30024
32 | March 12, 2015
AVALON
Luck of Avalon
Easter Bunny
Little Acorns
MARCH 17TH
MAR. 21ST - APR. 4TH
APR. 7TH – SEPT. 29TH
3PM – 10PM
Mon–Sat 11AM–7PM
Every Tuesday
Sun. 12PM–7PM April 3rd & 4th 10AM – 7PM
10AM – NOON
Hop on down for a visit and photos with the Easter Bunny in the Living Room.
Hop-a-long MARCH 28TH Scavenger hunt, pub crawl, Irish Dancers, family activities, and MORE!
AvalOM APR. 9TH – OCT. 1ST Every Thursday 6PM –7PM
Focus on your health and well-being with free wellness classes in The Plaza, including yoga, barre, adventure runs and cycling.
10AM (promptly) Celebrate the coming of spring with our first Easter egg hunt. Register with concierge.
Tot playtime in the Plaza every Tuesday with our ExperienceMakers!
Spring Fling Festival
Kentucky Derby Party
APRIL 18TH
MAY 2ND
NOON – 7PM
NOON – 7PM
Live music, family fun , seasonal shopping and dining offerings!
Derby in the Plaza with mint juleps & fancy hats, spring fashion, music & more!
ExperienceAvalon.com #AvalonInsider
COMMUNITY
Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 33 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Gwinnet Tech breaks ground New college to teach 10K students By JONATHAN COPSEY and HATCHER HURD jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – At long last, the new Gwinnett Technical College North Fulton campus held its groundbreaking March 6. Gov. Nathan Deal, Gwinnett Tech President Glen Cannon and Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle joined with other local and state dignitaries to toss the dirt on the new campus, off Old Milton Parkway and Ga. 400. “This is an historic day not just for Gwinnett Tech but for the technical college system of the state as a whole,” Cannon said. “This is a promise to our student citizens they will have access to education. It is a promise to our businesses that they will have a quality and sustainable workforce.” The groundbreaking was a milestone for the city of Alpharetta as well. “Alpharetta is the Technology Capital of the South. That is why we have pursued a technical school from Day 1,” said Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle. “In April 2012, we started our courtship with Gwinnett Tech.” Gwinnett Tech invited the cities of North Fulton to make proposals for sites in their towns. Alpharetta offered two, including the winning site on Old Milton Parkway, directly across from Avalon. Alpharetta has 13 million square feet of Class A office space, occupied by companies in need of skilled workers.
Georgia’s Technical College System by the numbers: • 244,000 students • 23 colleges • 84 campuses • 700 majors • $1.2 billion economic impact annually As an added sweetener, the city donated $4 million used in the purchase of the land. “We put our money where our mouth is,” said Belle Isle. “We already have the lowest unemployment rate in the area. In fact, we have a negative jobs rate. That means we have more jobs than we can fill in the technology field.” The new North Fulton campus will teach 10,000 students. The building, which is the first of three, features 35 classrooms, labs and office space. It will offer degrees in information technology and health services, among many others. It will open for classes in January 2016. The students will find courses that are in high demand. With 900 technology companies within a short distance of Alpharetta, IT and computer-related degrees are in high demand. Al Nash, executive director of the Development Authority of Fulton County, called the construction of Gwinnett
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
State and local dignitaries hold the groundbreaking of Gwinnet Technical College’s North Fulton campus March 6. Technical College’s North Fulton campus nothing short of “monumental.” “It’s another economic development tool in our toolbox. We need to have a locally trained, qualified workforce for North Fulton. We started working on this five years ago. The 4th Congressional District was the only district without a technical school or college campus,” Nash said. The match of Gwinnett Tech’s range of curricula and North Fulton’s Class A office space creates an almost ideal footprint for the campus, he said. State Sen. John Albers (RRoswell) said he was thankful to see the campus in his district.
“It is important to provide the skilled education to fill the jobs here in North Fulton,” Albers said. State Rep. Harry Geisinger (R-Roswell) agreed. “It’s critical with so many businesses locating in North Fulton. I was talking to Roswell High School Principal Jerome Huff, and there is a huge need to provide employees with the technical knowhow to solve that problem,” Geisinger said. “I would like to see Roswell students from my district go straight [to Gwinnett Tech’s North Fulton campus],” he said. Gov. Deal said the new campus fits in with his goals for the state’s education over-
haul. He said he wants 250,000 more students in Georgia to graduate with degrees by 2020. The technical college system is key to that goal. “This campus will go a long way to meet the goal,” Deal said. It is in conjunction with state plans to be more flexible in higher education, he said. The “Go Back, Move Ahead” program allows the system to be flexible for adults returning to school after leaving prematurely and will help with credit transfers. “The business community wants an adequate number of young people to be trained with the skills of the workforce,” he said.
CHEERS!
Roswell Beer Festival returns March 28 Annual event benefits STAR House By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Ready your drinking arm, because the annual Roswell Beer Festival returns this year on March 28 at the Roswell Square. Held to benefit Roswell-based nonprofit, STAR House, the beer festival will feature more than 250 varieties of beer, said Jeff Bridges, coordinator of the event. IPAs, stouts, lagers and everything in between will be on tap. Wine and
If you go What: Roswell Beer Festival When: 2 – 6 p.m. March 28 Where: Historic Roswell Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell Info: www.roswellbeerfestival.com The beer festival is seeking more volunteers to man the taps! Those interested can visit www.roswellbeerfestival.com to register. cider will also be available. “This is a chance to try beers you have never tried before,” Bridges said. Food and live music will also be at
the event. While ticketholders will get access to all 250 beers available, special for VIP ticket purchasers are more than a dozen cask ales brewed specially for the event from local brewers and restaurants. “It’s phenomenal, connoisseur-level stuff you will never be able to buy or have again,” Bridges said. “It’s that unique.” This is the first year the beer festival has featured a VIP section, and Bridges has high hopes for it. VIP ticket holders get the opportunity to enter the venue an hour before regular guests. Bridges said he hopes to have 1,500 people attend the one-day event.
“I want the experience to match Canton Street,” Bridges said. “A beer festival helps expand our reach to the region and provide an economic benefit to the city.” The event is a fundraiser for STAR House (Seeking, Teaching And Reaching), a Roswell-based nonprofit that provides at-risk students with afterschool and tutoring help. They have programs based in many of Roswell’s elementary, middle and high schools. The beer festival is a major fundraiser for the group. Bridges said he hopes to raise $100,000. For more information about the Roswell Beer Festival or to volunteer, visit www.roswellbeerfestival.com.
34 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
Sponsored Section
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Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015
ORAL HEALTH – GOOD FOR LIFE:
Between your family and our office, we have you covered There are more bacteria in your child’s mouth (and yours) right this minute than there are people on Earth – bacteria that can be passed between you with a simple kiss. Poor oral health is connect-
ed to diabetes, heart disease and stroke, respiratory illness, and high-risk pregnancy. There’s no doubt about it – daily brushing and flossing and regular dental appointments will keep you and your family
healthier. There are other impacts of poor oral hygiene... • Pain, missing teeth, & infections • Ability to speak & smile confidently
Without Good Periodontal Health, You Can’t Have Good General Health. Let Dr. Woods take care of your health where it Starts! Periodontal disease (gum disease) can affect your general health... and it can be affected by your general health. Here are a few examples:
STROKE
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS
• Inhaling bacteria from the mouth and throat can lead to pneumonia • Dental plaque buildup creates a dangerous source of bacteria that can be inhaled into the lungs
SEVERE OSTEOPENIA
• Reduction in bone mass (osteopenia) is associated with gum disease and related tooth loss • Severity has been connected to tooth loss in postmenopausal women
PRETERM OR LOW BIRTHWEIGHT BABIES • Women with advanced gum disease may be more likely to give birth to an underweight or preterm baby • Oral microbes can cross the placental barrier, exposing the fetus to infection
Cosmetic and Implant Consultations Always Welcome at No Cost.
• Ability to chew & enjoy a wide variety of food. A neglected smile also impacts social life, so don’t mistreat that grin. Dingy or cracked teeth and puffy gums can lower self-confidence and negatively impact performance at school, work, and in our personal lives. There’s no need to be embarrassed by your smile, covering up your laugh or standing in the wings. We can help… • Ensure your home care is effective • Whiten & make improvements to help you smile
By Steve Woodward Johns Creek Audiology
HEART DISEASE
Hearing affects EVERYTHING between your ears. If you’re like most people, you’re used to thinking of hearing as something that happens in your ears. What people often don’t think about is what happens between their ears, in the hearing part of their brain. That’s where sound becomes information that has meaning. Your brain has to work hard to make this happen. When the sound signals from your ears are compromised, your brain has to work even harder to fill in the gaps. This extra effort can take its toll. In fact, studies have shown that, over time, hearing loss can lead to isolation and depression. That’s why it makes sense to take care of your hearing health the same way you care about the rest of your health: There’s a lot more riding on it than just your hearing. What happens when you have a hearing challenge? The natural relationship between your ears and brain is disrupted. This is why it takes so much more effort to follow what is being said and why you may feel so much more tired at the end of a busy day. It’s your brain that hears - Not your ears. Your ears and your brain work together as a system, with your brain doing most of the heavy lifting. Your brain is what uses the information
UNCONTROLLED DIABETES
• Chronic periodontal disease can disrupt diabetic control • Diabetes can alter the pocket environment, contributing to bacterial overgrowth • Smokers with diabetes increase their risk of tooth loss by 20 times • Peaople with type II diabetes are 3 times as likely to develop periodontal disease than are nondiabetics Poor oral health is connected to diabetes, heart disease and stroke, respiratory illness, and high-risk pregnancy. There’s no doubt about it-daily brushing and flossing and regular dental appointments will keep you and your family healthier.
Robert D. Woods, DDS 4190 Old Milton Pkwy., Suite 2G • Alpharetta, GA 30005 • www.smilescapes.net • 770.551.0808
Regular dental visits are an important part of a healthy routine. Together we can ensure you’re WOODS on a path for lifelong good health! Call our practice for your appointment. 678 293 9965 Robert D. Woods, DDS SmileScapes Dentistry 4190 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 2G Alpharetta, GA 30005
Hearing with your brain?
• Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of stroke
• Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of fatal heart attack . . . • And are more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease • Bacteria from the mouth may cause clotting problems in the cardiovascular system
more.
from your two ears to orient you by figuring out which direction sound is coming from. It’s in the brain that sound waves become sounds that you recognize. And your brain is what helps you focus in on a conversation and separate out unwanted noise. Right now, all four of these tasks are happening simultaneously and continuously inside your brain. Give your brain exactly what it needs to hear. Your hearing is as unique as your fingerprint. And because no two are quite the same, no one else’s hearing profile is quite like yours. The right devices professionally selected and fit to your individual needs can: Be virtually invisible
See BRAIN, Page 36
Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
March 12, 2015 35
36 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald
Snoozing in the dental chair New treatment offers hope for the dental phobic By Dr. Ushma Patel From Center For Advanced Dentistry Millions of Americans avoid the dentist. Some had traumatic experiences as children. Others suffered pain as adults. Still more were swayed by stereotypes in movies or parental horror stories. No matter the reason, far too many of these individuals simply stopped seeking routine dental care
because they were frightened. Even when they were faced with such warning signs as pain in their mouths or gums these individuals still failed to visit the dentist. Now they’re jeopardizing not only their dental state but their overall health status. If this sounds like you, we want to help. Whether you’ve been postponing a simple dental checkup, construction and repair or a brand-new smile, now’s the
time to take better care of yourself. Now’s the time to move forward into a healthier future. Modern dentistry offers many new tools and options that make necessary treatments not only tolerable but even comfortable. Are you afraid of the dentist or have been putting it off ? For some people going to the dentist can be a terrifying experience. The drills, the smells and oh, that awful needle!
But now there’s a new way for the dentally challenged to get their needed treatment without having to go through all the fear and anxiety. And, what’s more, they likely won’t even remember going to the dentist. It’s called “Sedation Dentistry” and is available right now at Dr Ushma Patel’s dental office. Not all dentists are qualified or licensed to use this option. Approximately 1 in 8 dentists in Georgia is licensed to do Sedation. “The way it works is quite simple,” says Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Suwanee dentist Dr. Ushma Patel. “One hour before the appointment the patient simply takes a pill that we have dispensed to them. By the time they arrive for their appointment they are very relaxed.” The patient is then escorted to the dental chair. They gradually progress to a deeper level of sedation but are still able to respond to their environment and to questions from the doctor. Dr. Ushma Patel explains, “The patient will feel no pain and in fact will have little or no memory of the experience after it’s all over.” The patient’s vital signs are constantly monitored throughout the treatment. “When they awaken a friend drives them home and in an hour or so they are pretty much back to normal,” says Dr. Ushma Patel. “The best part is that they have no bad memories, and they don’t experience any pain or anxiety.” The patient isn’t “knocked out” or in total sedation like they would be for a surgery. The level of sedation isn’t that deep, but just deep enough so that they feel nothing but are still conscious Dr. Ushma Patel says, “We find that while some patients have a deep fear of dental treatment, there are many who also have a deeper
Brain: Continued from Page 34 Allow you to hear in “3D” so you can follow conversations that come from different directions in a room. Automatically select the best directional mode giving you clearer more natural sound - even in difficult hearing situations. Wirelessly connect to your Cell phone, tablet, TV, and car Along with award-winning service, the Johns Creek Audiology and Hearing Aid Center offers revolutionary pricing with initial costs often 30% to 40% less than other places
Dr. Ushma Patel fear of being “put under.” Their actual fear centers around losing control or not being able to perceive what’s going on around them. Sedation Dentistry is a happy medium. They are still under control and understand what’s happening – they just don’t feel anything or have any anxiety about it.” Is Sedation Dentistry only for dental chickens? Dr. Ushma Patel says no. “Some people, while they are not at all afraid of dental treatment, are highly resistant to anesthetic. They just can’t get numb. Other people simply don’t have the time to make repeated visits to the dentist and would rather have all their work done in one longer visit. Sedation Dentistry takes care of both problems.” Since dental phobics tend to put off their dental care, sometimes for many years, they usually need quite a bit of treatment - sort of a Catch 22 situation. But with Sedation Dentistry, literally years of treatment can be accomplished in just a single visit. For more information on Sedation Dentistry call Dr. Ushma Patel at 678-894-7926 or visit them on the web at www.JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com. If this sounds like you or a loved one or someone you know then please let them know that they have an option now. because patients can choose to pay only for hearing aids and not the 3-5 years of services “bundled” into the price. “We let our patients ‘unbundle’ services. “This method allows you the ability to afford a more premium product than traditionally offered.” says Steve Woodward, Director and CEO. Complete diagnostic testing is provided along with tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and ear wax management. All major insurance plans are accepted, and no-interest finance plans are available. Contact Johns Creek Audiology at 770-814-1260 to schedule your life changing appointment. www.YourHearingLink.com
Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Grand Opening
March 12, 2015 37
Thursday 3/26 3:00-6:30pm
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6335 Hospital Parkway, Suite 216 | Johns Creek, Georgia 30097 | Follow us on Facebook | www.LunaPlasticSurgery.com | 678.892.7820
38 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
So big deal, a little inflammation By Leslie Gaskill, M.D. Exactly,….. BIG DEAL! Inflammation is not something to take lightly. Let’s put it this way, if you came across a smoldering fire in your house, you wouldn’t just walk away... would you? I suspect that you would consider this an important matter to tend to, because you know that even a small smoldering fire could quickly become a big rip roaring fire that could burn your house down. Your thought process might be something like, “don’t panic, just put the fire out; and put the fire out fast.!” You might even say “Whew, I am glad I caught that fire while it was small, and thank God that I just happened to walk in here and see this.” Yeh, it would be an emotional and financial disaster to lose your home. So what if we were talking about your life? All it takes is ONE fire to cause an event i.e heart attack and stroke. There are many causes of inflammation that can ultimately cause your arteries to be fragile. The arteries can suddenly rupture as plaque pushes through the wall like a volcano. A clot is formed,
blocking the flow and BOOM. You have a heart attack or stroke. What causes inflammation? Great question. Stress, bad DR. GASKILL diet, migraines, autoimmune diseases( like lupus and psoriasis), smoking, cholesterol, insulin resistance, prediabetes, diabetes, PCOS, liver disease, sleep disorders, and, periodontal disease to just name a few. Don’t get a false sense of security if you are a marathon runner, passed your stress test, calcium score, and even have a phenomenal cholesterol profile. Stay tuned to hear more from us and Plaque Busters in the national arena. If you are serious about your life, and your life is a priority, we can help you before it is too late. We are very experienced in a prevention strategy that works! It is tailored to YOU, your body and your genetics! Right now as spring approaches, most of you are wanting to “get the weight off”. We are excited about our new weight loss program and we will per-
sonally coach you. If you want to find out your genetic dietary pattern needs (we are all one of six patterns), we can help you learn how to eat for minimizing your risk of developing plaque and to help you lose weight most effectively for a lifetime. Yes, it’s true: we are not all genetically programmed to eat the same way! Out of all of Dr. Gaskill’s patients that have followed & complied with her cardiovascular prevention method for the past 7 1/2 years, none have had a heart attack or stroke! We also utilize functional/ naturopathic medicine in addition to traditional Western medicine to successfully treat a large number of illnesses, including chronic fatigue, pulmonary disorders, food and chemical sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome, ADD, obesity, migraines, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, digestive disorders, skin disorders, anxiety, depression & insomnia. www.drlesliegaskill.com and www.plaquebusters.net Leslie S. Gaskill, M.D., LLC 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Ste 201 Johns Creek, Georgia 30097 770-495-9995
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Treating Sleep Apnea comfortably By: Haynes Bridge Dental Care What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes you to stop breathing while you sleep. In some cases, a person can stop breathing between five to 50 times each hour. As a result, the brain does not receive enough oxygen which can lead to brain damage and worsen certain medical conditions. Sleep apnea is especially dangerous for people with heart problems, and the condition can be lifethreatening for children. Watermark ARES Home Sleep Device – At-Home Sleep Testing Haynes Bridge Dental Care offers the Watermark ARES Home Sleep Test System to our patients. This advanced system allows you to test for sleep apnea in the comfort of your own bed. Sleep apnea is a challenging condition to diagnose. The diagnosis is even more challenging because many people cannot sleep comfortably during testing in a sleep clinic. The Watermark ARES Home Sleep Test System collects data while you
sleep. When combined with information from your medical record and a brief questionnaire, your sleep apnea is diagnosed properly. The Watermark Ares Home Sleep Device is wearable for the forehead and stores up to three nights worth of nocturnal data, making sleep testing easy for at-home use. It records several forms of data, including the following: • Blood oxygen saturation • Pulse rate • Airflow • Head movement • Head position How Is Sleep Apnea Treated? The bulky design and awkwardness of CPAP machines interferes with sleep, which is counterproductive to their purpose. At Haynes Bridge Dental Care, we offer devices that are custom fit to your mouth. The device has an upper and lower tray that work together to reposition your jaw while you sleep. With the jaw aligned properly, your airway stays open. Contact Haynes Bridge Dental Care today to schedule a consultation 470-297-6700
LESLIE S. GASKILL, M.D. For All Your Primary Care and Family Medicine Needs • Naturopathic/Functional • Laser Acupuncture Medicine • Cutting Edge Prevention • Family Medicine of Heart Attacks, Strokes and Diabetes • Internal Medicine • Rejuvederm and Botox • Gynecological Care • Integrative Medicine BRAND NEW WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM!
★
See article at www.drlesliegaskill.com on “In the News” tab.
Leslie S. Gaskill, M.D., L.L.C. 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Suite 201 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-495-9995 Drlesliegaskill.com Plaquebusters.net
Now Offering At-Home Sleep Testing Haynes Bridge Dental Care offers the Watermark ARES Home Sleep Test System to our patients. This advanced system allows you to test for sleep apnea in the comfort of your own bed. Sleep apnea is a challenging condition to diagnose. The diagnosis is even more challenging because many people cannot sleep comfortably during testing in a sleep clinic. The Watermark ARES Home Sleep Test System collects data while you sleep. When combined with information from your medical record and a brief questionnaire, your sleep apnea is diagnosed properly. 9925 Haynes Bridge Road Suite 700 Johns Creek, GA 30022 (located in the Haynes Bridge Publix Shopping Center)
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Restore Your Look. Enhance Your Life. With individualized support services and hospitalbased care, Gwinnett Medical Center’s affiliated board-certified cosmetic surgeons offer a wide range of procedures at competitive prices. Now through April 30, we’re offering a Winter Special! Learn more and download a coupon at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/cosmeticsurgery. This is Gwinnett Medical Center. This is now.
40 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Putting the final touches on your massive weight loss By Dr. Patricia Yugueros Luna Plastic Surgery
OMG! Hunching over smart devices stresses neck Poor posture causing ‘text neck’ By John J. Moss, M.D. Medical director, Northside Hospital Spine Center Here’s a “text” to save you a lot of neck pain. When using your smartphone or tablet, avoid tilting your head for prolonged periods of time. As people around the world use their smartphone and tablet more and more, spine experts are seeing an increase in neck pain complaints. But how bad is it? Well, in the upright or neutral position, the human head weighs about a dozen pounds. As the neck bends forward and down, the weight on the cervical spine begins to increase. At a 15-degree angle, this weight is about 27 pounds, or the equivalent of two bowling balls. At 30 degrees, it’s 40
pounds, at 45 degrees, it’s 49 pounds and at 60 degrees it’s 60 pounds, or the weight of four bowling balls or a sevenyear-old child, according to data published by Dr. Kenneth Hansraj in the National Library of Medicine. The average smartphone and tablet users spends twoto-four hours per day hunched over, reading e-mails, surfing the internet, playing games, sending texts or checking social media sites. That’s 700-to-1,400 hours per year putting stress on the spine. It›s no secret that correct posture is better for your back. But this poor habit, sometimes called “text neck,” can lead to early wear-and-tear on the spine, degeneration and may even lead to surgery. Your spine is your body’s natural shock absorber. When you scrunch it up (or over, as the case may be), you force the muscles and ligaments in your
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neck, back, shoulders and legs to compensate. Making them work out of their natural position makes you more prone to injury. Be a smarter user of your smart device by pulling your device up more and look down with your eyes instead of tilting your head. Also pay attention to your posture Dr. John J. Moss is the medical director at the Northside Spine and Pain Treatment Center in Cherokee County. Dr. Moss has experience treating chronic neck pain, chronic back pain, neuropathic pain and a variety of other conditions. Northside Hospital Spine and Pain Treatment Center is located at 120 Oakside Court, Suite A, in Canton. For more information about conditions of the spine and available treatment options, visit www. northside.com/spinecenter or call 404-459-1809 to schedule an appointment.
After hours at the gym, reinventing your diet, and undergoing bariatric surgery, the pounds are gone. Congratulations! For many post-bariatric patients losing the weight feels like a dream come true. You’re a whole new, much smaller person. Your journey is nearly complete. But, don’t stop now. If you end your weight loss journey with the weight loss, you’ll be missing out on the full effects of all your hard work. Post-bariatric body contouring puts the cherry on the top of your weight loss sundae. If you think you love your new body now, just wait until you see what it can become. You can achieve that slim, model-like figure you’ve never thought possible. Excess Skin- What’s the Big Deal? You feel so great after losing that weight that the little extra skin that remains might not seem like much of a bother. Who cares? The weight is gone and you feel better than ever. You might not realize it, but that extra skin might
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• Sedation Dentistry – relax through your entire visit • Dental Implants – permanent replacements for missing teeth • Straight Teeth in Six Months or less • Teeth Whitening, dazzling results – ZOOM! Call Today For Your • Non-Surgical Periodontal Gum Treatment Complimentary • Metal-Free, tooth colored white fillings Sedation, Implant • Porcelain veneers for crooked or stained teeth Or Cosmetic • Digital X-Rays - 90% less radiation Consultation • FDA approved NON-DRUG migraine prevention Dr. Ushma Patel is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Hinman Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation.
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actually be keeping you from fully realizing and enjoying your new size. Plus, health problems associated with YUGUEROS excess skin could develop down the road. Dr. Patricia Yugueros, a board certified plastic surgeon, explains, “I love helping patients discover their new, thinner bodies with postbariatric surgery. These patients are excited about their weight loss and proud of their healthier bodies. I help them complete their transformation. Through post-bariatric surgery we can treat sagging skin and create stunning contours. Many patients are excited to learn that removing that extra skin can result in even more pounds dropped and often a reduction of another inch off their waistline and half an inch off the upper arms. ” Removing excess skin after weight loss isn’t just a cosmetic procedure. Excess skin can cause discomfort and other problems. Postbariatric surgery can resolve issues including: • Skin Rashes- When excess skin hangs down moisture can collect in the folds. The warm, moist environment is a perfect place for bacteria and yeasts to grow, often leading to rashes and infections. One of the most common is called intertrigo, a type of rash that thrives in skin folds. • Odor- The bacteria that develop in skin folds don’t just cause rashes; they can lead to odor as well. Good hygiene is one of the best ways to limit these odors without surgery. • Pain and Discomfort- Irritated skin under a skin fold can become infected, often causing a great deal of pain and discomfort. Extra skin can also cause chaffing. For some, the discomfort from excess skin can make movement and exercise difficult, making it harder to keep off the weight you’ve worked so hard to lose. • Difficulty Fitting into Clothing- Excess skin can make it difficult to fit into clothing. Your body is now smaller, but the extra skin that remains can make tighter styles of clothing
See WEIGHT, Page 42
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Sunrise Detox now open in Alpharetta The toad to tecovery begins with detox Sunrise Detox located in Alpharetta is dedicated to the first stage of any addiction treatment: detox. Whether it is alcohol or pain pills, or any other addictive substance, as long as the substance is active in the body, the individual is considered “under the influence” and not ready nor able to make the changes need to overcome addiction. Most rehabs and treatment programs will not accept someone who is still under the influence. They send them to detox first. People can also choose to go direct to detox, before picking a treatment program. “When someone asks for help, we jump at the chance to get them into treatment”, says Clinical Director Daniel Lettenberger-Klein. “We know the window during which they will accept help can be very short. The urgency of the physical situation, whether drugs or alcohol, requires us to act immediately. They need to enter detox a.s.a.p.” Unlike most other facilities, Sunrise enrolls new patients 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. And they call them
“guests,” not patients. Sunrise Detox has treated over 40,000 clients in 3 states, using a medically developed and supervised protocol known as “Detox with Dignity,” and a focus on respect for the individual. Sunrise is the preferred provider of medical detox for over 800 physicians, treatment centers, churches, tribes, and government agencies. “We know the importance that a successful detox experience has on the long term success in recovery,” says John Moriarty of Sunrise. “A comfortable detox delivers a more accepting, more compliant individual for continuing in a rehab center or an outpatient program. A comfortable detox creates hope where very little hope existed.” Sunrise accepts most insurance programs and private payment, and has the experience needed to navigate the complex insurance landscape that seems to prevent so many from accessing the treatment they really need. According to Dr. Thomas Locke, an Alpharetta Internist, “If I had to highlight just one amazing part of this, which I
really can’t since so much of it is wonderful, I would note that the fine people of Sunrise Detox really get it. They understand that it takes a community working together to solve the addiction problems we
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face. Not just each of us doing our part, but all of us, working together. This facility will be a big help.” Sunrise Detox Alpharetta is located at 4500 North Point Parkway Alpharetta GA 30022
SunriseDetoxAtlanta.com For Professional Inquiries or Admissions Information, Contact: Laura Riedlinger, Community Relations 678 762 0370. LRiedlinger@sunrisedetox.com
42 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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What is the relationship between your thyroid and gluten? Brought to you by Dr. Sean Savedoff In the majority of cases, hypothyroidism actually turns out to be an autoimmune disease, whereby the body attacks its own thyroid gland. This is what is known as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Causes of Hashimoto’s include: Genetics: Hashimoto’s tends to run in families. Other family members may also have Hashimoto’s, or they may have some other kind of autoimmune disease (examples could include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and so forth). Estrogen exposure: This means more women develop Hashimoto’s. More women also develop thyroid problems after giving birth, with it developing into Hashimoto’s later on. Exposure to Radiation : This can
Weight: Continued from Page 40 uncomfortable or unattractive. The Need for Post-Bariatric Surgery After Weight Loss The solution to these problems is simple: post-bariatric surgery. This is a general term for a customized set of procedures that will remove excess skin, reshape the body, and lead to a more attractive (and
occur due to exposure in the environment, or due to exposure from damaging cancer treatments. So you might be asking yourself, what does Hashimoto’s (hypothyroidism caused by the thyroid being SAVEDOFF attacked by its own body) have to do with gluten? Many studies have linked gluten intolerance (including Celiac Disease) and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. This link is so common that when someone is diagnosed with gluten intolerance, they should be referred for testing of thyroid antibodies, and vice versa. Why is there this connection? The protein portion of gluten resembles your thyroid tissue! If you have gluten
more comfortable) body after massive weight loss. Dr. Yugueros believes a customized approach is essential in this type of procedure. “Each body handles massive weight loss differently. When patients are considering postbariatric surgery I often start with a careful examination of the body. We work together to choose areas that need modification and create a plan that will help the patient achieve their goals.” Let’s take a quick look at
intolerance, your body’s immune system attacks the gluten by producing antibodies. These same antibodies also attack your thyroid, because of its resemblance in structure to gluten! So, if you have gluten intolerance, and you eat gluten, your body will attack the gluten and your thyroid. Knowing which foods to avoid can make a huge difference in how you are feeling, and can help stop this destructive process. What kinds of foods contain gluten? Foods that contain barley, wheat, rye, and triticale (which is a combination of rye and wheat) should be avoided. Examples of some wheat ingredients include: Durum flour, Spelt, Farina, Semolina and Bulgur
some common procedures used in post-bariatric surgery: • Liposuction- Why would you need liposuction after weight loss? Many mistakenly believe that liposuction is a weight loss procedure when in reality it is a body shaping tool. Liposuction can help refine your body after weight loss, creating curves and contours in the right places and removing stubborn fat pockets that remain. • Breast Lift- If your nipples are pointing downward, you
Some actual foods to avoid, unless they say they are gluten free, include: Bread, Beer, Cereal, Pastas and Certain sauces and salad dressings This is obviously not an exhaustive list, but is one place to start. The key is that there is a high correlation between thyroiditis and gluten intolerance. There are some natural ways to support your thyroid, and ensure it functions optimally. You may want to find a doctor that practices functional medicine. A functional medical doctor can assist you with natural ways of treating the root cause of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms with medication. If you or someone you know may have a thyroid condition, call 770-731-9410 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Sean Savedoff.
may need a breast lift. This procedure reshapes and reforms the breast. Often patients that have lost a lot of weight have also lost breast volume; many choose to combine a breast lift with breast augmentation surgery. • Tummy Tuck- This procedure removes excess abdominal skin and tightens the muscle. This is the time in your transformation to enjoy your hard earned results because
you have accomplished something truly amazing. You are living proof that hard work really does pay off. Now celebrate by taking that final step in your transformation to reveal the new you! Lose inches, drop those last few pounds, and finally have the body you’ve always dreamed of. You’re almost there. For more information call Luna Plastic Surgery at 678.892.7820 or visit www. LunaPlasticSurgery.com
Restore your Thyroid and increase your energy naturally. Call today to schedule your FREE Personal Consultation.
Do you experience any of these symptoms? • Life-altering low energy • Abdominal Pain • Memory Loss • Weight loss resistance • Hot flashes • Hair loss • Trouble Sleeping • Depression or Anxiety
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• Why your blood work looks normal, but you do not feel well • Why 80% of thyroid symptoms are auto-immune related and why most doctors do not test for them • How you may have a condition “reverse T-3 dominance” that can be revealed by a simple test
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• Food Intolerance, Autoimmune Hypothyroid and Hashimoto’s • Proper ways to detox and how your liver is involved • Why simply taking thyroid medication may not impact symptoms
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FAQ – Cosmetic surgery Outsmarting Cancer While reality shows and magazine articles may make cosmetic surgery seem like a magic way to shave off years or look like a movie star, there’s more to it than that. Here are some frequently asked questions, and their answers by the cosmetic surgery specialists at Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth. Am I a good candidate for the cosmetic surgery procedure I’m interested in? Generally individuals in good health are good candidates for cosmetic surgery. Discuss with your cosmetic surgeon whether the procedure you’re interested in is right for you, and whether there are alternative procedures to achieve the effect you want. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, among the most common cosmetic surgery procedures are breast augmentation, nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid surgery and facelift. Are my cosmetic surgery goals realistic? Explain your goals and ask the surgeon if they’re realistic for you. Ask your surgeon to show you before and after photos of other patients, so that you know what realistic outcomes look like. Are my recovery expectations realistic? Each person and each procedure involves its own recovery time – which may be longer than you would expect. It’s important to openly discuss any health conditions that might impact your recovery, and any lifestyle factors that might be important to you, such as training for a marathon or planned travel. Is this cosmetic surgery procedure safe? All surgical procedures have some level of risk. To re-
duce your chances of complications, follow all your preand post-operative instructions carefully. Also be sure you discuss any and all health conditions with your surgeon. Does it matter where the surgery is performed? The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends that people select a surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery and who has operating privileges at an area hospital. Having a procedure performed at Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth guarantees that your surgeon currently has both these credentials. Plus, if your procedure is performed in a hospital setting, you can be assured that if something unexpectedly goes awry, the best in medical care is under the same roof – not miles away down a crowded highway. Is cosmetic surgery outpatient or inpatient? Most cosmetic surgery procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, with some exceptions. A patient might stay overnight if he or she lives alone and has no one to assist after surgery, or when there are multiple surgeries and staying in the hospital is needed to monitor the patient’s condition and pain Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth is accredited by the Joint Commission. Hospitals that are accredited by the Joint
Cancer is often thought of as one disease, but it is actually a collection of over 100 diseases. These many types of cancer are similar in that they originate from a single cell which misbehaves and grows out of control. The immune system is designed to eliminate cells which do not behave properly, but cancer cells have found ways of evading the immune system. Left unchecked, these cancer cells can multiply and grow at a very fast rate, forming a tumor. Conventional oncologists tend to focus their energy on eliminating the tumor with high dose chemotherapy and radiation. Sadly, these treatments often cause more harm than good. I specialize in integrative cancer care, meaning that I approach cancer from multiple angles. In addition to treating the tumor, I also focus on boosting the immune system and nourishing healthy cells. This approach Commission have demonstrated that they meet numerous patient safety standards and that the hospital’s equipment, surgical protocols and facility standards meet stringent criteria. These accreditation boards also review staff training for nurses, respiratory therapists, anesthesiologists and surgeons. Locating a Cosmetic Surgeon Find a board-certified cosmetic surgeon at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org, call HealthLine at 678-312-5000. Now through April 30, we’re offering a Winter Special on cosmetic surgery. Learn more and download a coupon at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ cosmeticsurgery.
Dr. Jonathan Stegall is essential for not only addressing the weed (cancer) but also the soil in which it is growing (your body). I welcome the opportunity to help you or a loved one with cancer treatment. I see patients who are also being treated by a conventional oncologist, as well as those patients who are choosing a more natural route. I look forward to hearing from you!
44 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Anterior approach hip replacement An alternative to conventional hip replacement leaves a smaller surgical footprint The anterior approach is a technique for performing hip replacement through an incision in the front of the hip rather than through a standard lateral or posterior incision. It is considered to be a less invasive surgery than a traditional total hip replacement because it allows a surgeon to use a smaller incision and access the joint by going between important muscles rather than cutting and reattaching them. A major benefit of leaving the muscles intact is that the joint is more stable, thereby reducing the risk of dislocation. Also, the patient’s position makes it easier to use fluoroscopy, which makes it easier to position the hip implant and accurately assess leg length. There are also fewer post operative restrictions such as a pillow between the legs, high toilet seats and limited sleeping positions. Most total hip replacement patients whose surgeries are done with an anterior approach are able to freely move their hip and bear full weight soon after surgery. This can mean a shorter hospital stay (2-4) days with faster recovery and rehabilitation because patients are able to be mobile more quickly. The anterior approach is not performed by all surgeons, and requires special training because it is technically advanced. Even surgeons who use this
A major benefit of leaving the muscles intact is that the joint is more stable, thereby reducing the risk of dislocation. technique will evaluate each patient individually to see if they are a candidate for the anterior approach. Recently, improvements in surgical technique, instrumentation and patient selection have modernized total hip replacement. Some local surgeons have been performing anterior approach hip replacement for years, while others prefer to operate using conventional methods. If you are considering hip replacement surgery, discuss clinically proven implant systems and surgical approaches with your surgeon to decide what’s best for you. Data on file at Exactech.
Anterior Approach to Hip Replacement The forefront of modern joint replacement Designed to1,2 : • Preserve your natural anatomy • Minimize incision • Reduce blood loss • Shorten hospital stay • Reduce rehabilitation • Allow quicker return to activities
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With any surgery, there are potential risks, and results will vary depending on the patient. Joint replacement surgery is not for everyone. Check with your physician to determine if you are a candidate for joint replacement surgery. Your physician will consider the risks and benefits associated with this product, as well as individual factors such as the cause of your condition, and your age, height, weight, and activity level.
1. Matta JM, Ferguson TA. The anterior approach for hip replacement. Orthopedics. 2005 Sep;28(9):927-8. 2. Restrepo C1, Parvizi J, Pour AE, Hozack WJ. Prospective randomized study of two surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 2010 Aug;25(5):671-9.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.arth.2010.02.002. Epub 2010 Apr 8.
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Early detection of oral cancer Get informed on colon cancer reduces mortality rate Patients typically The dental community is the one of the first lines of defense in early detection of oral cancer. Including both generalists and specialists, there are over 100,000 dentists in the US, each one seeing between 8 and 15 patients per day. The American Dental Association states that 60% of the US population sees a dentist every year. Performing oral cancer screenings during routine biannual dental visits, yields tens of thousands of opportunities to catch oral cancer in its early stages. Oral cancer is an ideal cancer to identify early by screening. Besides a routine visit to the dental office for regular examinations, it is the patient’s responsibility to be aware of changes in their oral environment. When these changes occur, they need to be brought to the attention of a qualified dental professional for examination. It is important that both private individuals, and members of the dental community, realize that a visit to the dentist is no longer only about a filling, a crown, or a routine cleaning, but can be a
Early detection of oral cancers by your professional examiner or yourself is the key to survival of this disease. matter of life and death. Dental examinations, when properly done include a screening for oral cancer and ultimately will save lives. Oral cancers are commonly referred to as head and neck cancers, and of all head and neck cancers they comprise about 85% of that category. The death rate for oral cancer is higher than that of cancers which we hear about routinely such as cervical cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the testes, and endocrine system cancers such
as thyroid, or skin cancer (malignant melanoma). Oral cancer is particularly dangerous because in its early stages it may not be noticed by the patient, as it can frequently prosper without producing pain or symptoms they might readily recognize, and because it has a high risk of producing second, primary tumors. There are several types of oral cancers, but around 90% are squamous cell carcinomas. New diagnostic aids, including lights, dyes, and other techniques are beginning to appear on the marketplace. Some of these have more value than others and stronger scientific efficacy. While potentially making the discovery process more effective, it is still possible to do a comprehensive examination through a proper visual and tactile white light process alone. Early detection of oral cancers by your professional examiner or yourself is the key to survival of this disease. Give Roswell Dental Care a call at 470.375.9244 to schedule a complimentary dental consultation and cancer screening.
Do You DREAD Going to the DENTIST? OUR Patients Do Not!
The American Cancer Society estimates over 200,000 cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the next few years, representing a combination HUDES of colon, rectal and colorectal cancers. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer found among men and women in the US, and while it is the second leading cause of death in this country, it is actually one of the most curable cancers when detected early. Dr. Brian Hudes, Medical Director of Advanced Gastroenterology Associates and Hudes Endoscopy Center, suggests that all men and women over 50 schedule a colon cancer screening. “Know your risk factors beyond being 50. These include a history of polyps, your family history, ethnicity, certain lifestyle choices, Type II Diabetes and other autoimmune diseases, and of course, any change in bowel habits. Patients typically want to know if a colonoscopy is safe and how long it takes. Yes, it is safe, and it takes about 20 minutes under anesthesia,” says Dr. Brian Hudes.
want to know if a colonoscopy is safe and how long it takes. Yes, it is safe, and it takes about 20 minutes under anesthesia.” DR. BRIAN HUDES Advanced Gastroenterology Associates
Dr. Brian Hudes practices with Dimple Raina, M.D., Long Nguyen, D.O., and Ed LeVert, M.D. at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates and Hudes Endoscopy Center, conveniently located next door to each other at 4275 Johns Creek Parkway in Suwanee. To schedule an appointment call 678 475-1606 and visit us at www.advgastro.com. The practice specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases of the esophagus, stomach, intestines and associated organs of the gastrointestinal tract.
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month Here’s what you need to know if you’re over 50: 1. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and often curable cancers when detected early. Know your risk factors. 2. A colonoscopy is less expensive in a private outpatient facility, which provides more personalized care in a state-of-the-art facility.
“If I could make a trophy like they do in show biz, it would be for the first Dentist I not only have not dreaded to come see, but furthermore the First Dentist I actually look forward to my visits with! You are a true diamond and your work is far above and unmatched by anyone. You are not just a dentist doing dentures, but a true artist with your skills. I am so happy that You are MY DENTIST!” ~Sarah Stroud
Why Our Patients Love Our Office:
John’s Creek Readers’ Choice Award Winner
• Anxiety-FREE Dentistry (nitrous oxide) • Affordable Dentistry For The Entire Family • FREE Cosmetic Consultations and Second Opinions • Caring, Knowledgeable Doctor and Staff • Digital X-Rays- Less Radiation • Convenient Payment Options We have been dedicated to treating patients like family for over 25 years... your comfort and satisfaction is our main concern. Dr. R. David Remaley
Here’s what you need to know about us: 1. Hudes Endoscopy Center is AAAHC accredited, and our board certified gastroenterologists and skilled staff, are dedicated to providing you the highest quality care. 2. Our pre-cancerous polyp detection rate exceeds the published national average by 40%!
Brian Hudes, M.D. Medical Director
Excellence in Dentistry
Dimple Raina, M.D. F. Edward LeVert, M.D. Long B. Nguyen, D.O.
Call now for a FREE Consultation!
470.375.9244 1570 Old Alabama Road • Suite 102 Roswell, GA 30076 www.roswelldentalcare.com
Welcoming New Patients... Exceeding Expectations
,LLC
, LLC
4275 Johns Creek Pkwy, Ste. A, Suwanee, GA 30024 www.advgastro.com 678.475.1606 The internal quality improvement survey/study, the findings and information on the national standards are available on file at Hudes Endoscopy Center.
46 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • SUMMER CAMPS
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Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015
A fun-filled summer of wonder and adventure! Whether your child attends Catalina Sea Camp or AstroCamp depends on your child’s specific interest. If your child is interested in the wonders of the ocean world or just wants to spend summer with friends on an island, Catalina Sea Camp is the best choice
with scuba certifications, sailing courses, marine biology classes, Island exploring, sea food cookery and lots of traditional fun social activities like Talent/No Talent, carnival night, dances and color Olympics. Our Island Campus has a unique charm with it’s
Spanish California architecture and private cove. Some activities are age specific and there are many more activities than are listed here so check out the sea camp website at catalinaseacamp.org If your child loves science activities, space exploration,
Astronomy, rock climbing, LARP, dungeons and dragons, and good old fashioned summer camp fun, AstroCamp is a great choice. There are many more activities so check our website at astrocampsummer.org. Whichever camp you choose, you can rest assured that your child will get the highest quality program, comfortable accommodations, great food and memories that will last a lifetime. All of our staff are hand picked for there fun loving per-
sonalities and ability to work with young people. Astrocamp and Catalina Sea Camp are owned and operated by the non-profit corporation Guided Discoveries. Guided Discoveries hosts over 50,000 students, parents and teachers from over 1,000 schools annually in it’s outdoor education program. Guided Discoveries has been running summer camps for over 35 years. For more information, go to our website at gdicamps.org.
Elevate your next road trip by seeking out added value (NAPSI)—For those looking to take an upscale road trip, but who want to get the most for their money, there are several tips and tricks to keep in mind when planning a getaway. Time Your Trip If your dates are flexible, try traveling to your selected destination during its off-season. Hotels often drop their rates to attract business when crowds thin out, and you can score a great deal while avoiding a tourist rush. Try a mountain destination before ski season is in full swing, or a famous site, such as the Grand Canyon, on a weekday during the school year. Take Advantage of Luxury Partnerships Luxury brands often partner to provide their customers
with added value. To take your road trip up a notch from the moment you pull out of your driveway, a special edition Crafted Line of vehicles from Lexus comes equipped with a beautiful two-piece set of tailor-made Tumi luggage. The Lexus Crafted Line features an Ultra White exterior with Obsidian door handles, side mirrors and grille. Eye-catching seats, contrast stitching, headrests and door panels are either two-tone Black/Scarlet or Black/Cabernet. Models include IS 250 F SPORT, LS 460 F SPORT and GS 350 F SPORT in RWD and AWD; RX 350 AWD F SPORT; and ES 350. The limited edition Tumi duffel bag set was specifically
See VALUE, Page 47
Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
SUMMER CAMPS • Sponsored Section
March 12, 2015 47
Safe, magical, adventurous, educational summer fun for your youngster Voted the No. 1 Summer Camp in Nashville for the past six years, the YMCA Camp Widjiwagan is an action-packed summer adventure where confidence is built through skill development, and new friends are made as a result of teamwork. Offering one-week sessions in Resident, Day and Equestrian camps for ages 5-17. Camp Widjiwagan serves both boys and girls. Water activities include swimming, Wet Willie Water slide, Widji ski school, surf school and an advanced sailing program. Land activities include ranch camp, soccer, basketball, alpine tower, double zip line, archery, arts and crafts, climbing and pamper pole. Camp Widjiwagan provides children with a community of caring adult role models, who nurture self-respect and appreciation for others. Camp Widjiwagan’s philosophy is to provide a safe, fun, magical and educational experience for all guests and children
Value: Continued from Page 46 designed to match the vehicles for grille-to-trunk coordination. Lexus owners can find additional pieces of this original luggage set and other exclusive offers at LexusDrivers.com. A Meguiar’s New Car Care Kit is also included as another extra bonus for Crafted Line owners. Search for Package Deals Regardless of when you travel, try to look for a hotel offering a package deal to capitalize on your travel investment. Many upscale hotels offer credit toward their on-site restaurants, bars or spas when you book in advance online. Hotels in areas such as Napa Valley or other wine country destinations may partner with nearby wineries to offer its guests exclusive deals on tastings and tours. For example, The Allison Inn & Spa in Or-
through the demonstration of the four YMCA core values – Honesty, Respect, Caring and Responsibility. This year Camp Widjiwagan is introducing Specialty Day Camps whicj introduce campers to skills in particular area of interest such as Aquatics, Outdoor Living Skills, Climbing, Sailing or Marksmanship. Resident Camp welcomes two new fully-themed programs – Minecraft and Survivor. Each activity is led by a counselor and provides opportunities for your camper to meet and participate with a wide variety of new friends. At Camp Widjiwagan campers will strengthen friendships and sharpen character through programs and activities that build independence and social skills. Call the camp office for scholarship information. The 2015 Registration is open online at www.campwidji. org. For more information call camp office at 615-360-2267 or visit our website. egon’s Willamette Valley offers Lexus owners the chance to sample three distinctive local wines and receive a complimentary bottle of their favorite. The resort also has an on-site fleet of Lexus vehicles available for guests to drive, eliminating the need for a rental car. Take the Scenic Route The great thing about road trips is that you can skip the crowded, expensive attractions and enjoy the view from the comfort of your car seat. And all passengers will be happy to spend more time taking in free, scenic sites along the way. Take advantage of natural wonders and roadside attractions—such as New York’s scenic Finger Lakes region or kitschy Route 66 sites—whenever possible. With these tips and tricks, and a little advance planning, you’ll save time and money while elevating your road trip. Find out more at www.Lexus. com/craftedline.
ANOTHER LEGENDARY SUMMER YMCA CAMP WIDJIWAGAN RESIDENT CAMP PROGRAMS FOR AGES 7-15 NEW FACILITIES SURVIVOR AND MINECRAFT CAMPS FULLY THEMED CAMPS EQUESTRIAN CAMPS LEADERSHIP TEEN PROGRAMS SURF SCHOOL WE NOW OFFER AIRPORT PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF TO ALL OF OUR OUT-OF STATE-CAMPERS
615-360-2267 l WWW. CAMPWIDJI.ORG l Nashville, TN Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body.
48 March 12, 2015
Sponsored Section • SUMMER CAMPS
Camp listings Dance Have a budding ballerina wanting to dance her way through summer? Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s Summer Trainee Camp definitely fits the bill! Known for serious training of pre-professional dancers, MBT has an exciting and informative summer camp tailored just for younger dancers – boys and girls – ages 4 to 8. Experienced instructors cover foundational technique while encouraging campers to have fun and build friendships, and a variety of enrichment subjects introduce campers to the wider world of Dance. June 15-19 & June 22 -26 A day at Trainee Camp includes: Ballet Jazz Dance-related crafts Tales from dance history Professional performance review Learning and rehearsing ballet variation Get the details! Metropolitan Ballet.org! A summer of exciting theatre awaits your child at Off Broadway Performing Arts Center. Located in the heart of Crabapple, Camp Off Broadway offers 1 week and 2 week camps for kids ages 4-17 in a professional yet family oriented environment. Immerse your child in the worlds of “Legally Blonde Jr.”, “Junglebook Kids” and “Honk” as they learn life skills, make new friends and memories to last a lifetime. At Off Broadway, we give every child a chance to shine. To register, visit us online at offbroadwaydance.com or call us at 770-664-2410
Horse Willow South Riding School, Celebrating 15 years of excellence in riding! NEW Johns Creek location with INDOOR ARENA. United States Pony Club Riding Center. We offer all levels of instruction. Ages 5-12. 9a.m.-1p.m. Learn to ride in a fun, safe program with skilled instructors and experienced horses. For the true horse enthusiast! www.willowsouth.com $375 includes camp shirt and horse show! Send email to willowsouth@gmail.com. Sign up early to reserve your spot! June 1-5, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31.
Atlanta Celtic Camp:. Irish Music and Language Camp for kids and teens ages 6 to 17 years. Fiddle, flute, song and more! June 8-12 (9am to 1pm) in Ro-
Info available at www.eagleboys soccercampsor contact: Sonny Travis Emory Men’s Head Soccer Coach 404-727-0597 sonny.travis@emory.edu
swell; sponsored by The Atlanta Irish Music School. Register online at: www.atlantairishmusicschool.com. 770-712-9334
Day Camps
Music
johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald
The 8th Annual Vivace! Summer Middle School Band Camp is for band students in the North Metro Atlanta area. Students experience full band, master classes, jazz band/improvisation, marching band techniques, music composition taught by certified teachers. Eligibility: For current 5th-8th grade band students who have been in their public or private school band program OR have taken private lessons at least 1 school year. Also, we have recreation time, end of camp ice-cream party & concert. $205 by May 1st, $225 thereafter. Sibling, District, & All State discounts are available. REGISTER AT www. vivacecamps.com. Location: June 15-19 at Mt. Pisgah Christian School in Johns Creek. Jay Hutcherson, director@vivacecamps.com. 678-278-9210
Rowing Learn the Olympic Sport of Rowing with Atlanta Junior Rowing Association! Ages 12-18 co-ed, no experience necessary. Five 2-week sessions with USRowing certified coaches: choose from 2 morning or 1 evening sessions, $175/session. Also for 2015, back by popular demand, 3 1-week sessions are available for High School campers only, $125/session. Held at the Chattahoochee River, 245 Azalea Drive, Roswell. Learn the fundamentals of sweep rowing and begin a basic workout program with the largest and most successful youth rowing program in Georgia! All campers are grouped each session by age, size, and skill level. To register, or for more info: www.ajracrew.com, or Sarah Low ajra.information@gmail.com.
Science Science Camp conducted by High Touch-High Tech, Inc. since 1994. Degreed professionals instruct fun science from CSI discoveries, Robotics, Bugs & Rockets, to Fossils, Flowers, Space,& Volcanoes- Your older child can experience science coming to life in the fields of Chemistry, Physics, Light, Sound, and Electrical energy. Does your younger child like dinosaurs, gemstones, or animal studies? Then our age appropriate camps are for them. Also- STEM campsScience, Technology, Engineering & Math camps too! Snacks and recess games will be provided. ‘Pizza Fridays’ available at an additional charge. Completed K-5, 9am-3pm. 770-667-9443. Locations: Roswell, Cumming, Marietta, Lawrenceville,Vinings, and Dunwoody. www.sciencemadefunatl.org
Soccer Soccer Camps at Emory University Boys Camps Eagle Full Day Camps June 8-12 / June 15-19 for boys ages 7-14, extended care available Eagle Elite Residential/ Commuter Camp July 10-12 for boys ages 15-18
Girls Camps Full Day Camps June 1-5 / July 6-10 for girls ages 7-14, extended care available Info available at www.emory sportscamps.com and scroll to girls soccer or contact: Sue Patberg Emory Women’s Head Soccer Coach 404-727-2839 spatber@emory.edu Camps traditionally fill up so sign up early, Day Camp cost for each week $320 includes lunch.
Overnight Camps Adventure & Travel Catalina Sea Camp and AstroCamp are two amazing adventure summer camps. Located on beautiful Catalina Island in Southern California, Catalina Sea Camp offers ocean adventure activities for boy and girls ages 8-17. We have 1-week sessions for ages 8-13 and 3-week camps for ages 12-17. Located in beautiful Idyllwild California, Astrocamp is a mountain adventure science summer camp for boy and girls ages 8-17. These two great summer camps were developed by the nonprofit corporation Guided Discoveries in order to provide boys and girls with summer opportunities that enrich and inspire their lives. Check out our websites at www.californiasummercamps.org for a list of activities.
Mississippi Camp Iti Kana and Camp Wahi - Summer Camps for girls ages 6-17. Located in Wiggins and Brandon, Mississippi. Owned and operated by Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi. Non-Girl Scouts welcome. Three and four day overnight sessions. Traditional summer camp activities – swimming, archery, nature, crafts, science, trip units, games, leadership, hiking, cookouts, campfires and sing-alongs. Contact: summercamp@gsgms.org or 601.660.2847. www.gsgms.org
Special Needs Camp Lee Mar: For children and teenagers with mild to moderate learning and developmental challenges. Since 1953, A Special Camp in beautiful Pennsylvania Poconos, co-ed, ages 7-21, with mild-moderate developmental challenges. Our 63rd anniversary, 6/25 25-8/11. Fun, traditional camp activities. academics. speech & language therapy. daily
AGAIN this summer!! Children’s Special Services, LLC offers its award winning US Trademarked enrichment camps for handwriting, social /sensory motor development, ages 3-13. ** Multiple sessions and locations throughout Greater Atlanta Area. We give 1-1 attention in a supportive group environment. Our Camps are: Play YOUR WAY to Sensory Motor and Social Success: Guided play to help the young child with fine and gross motor/sensory skills inclusive of but not limited to:
•Sensory Modulation •Frustration tolerance •Following directions •Transitions
•Noise tolerance •Tactile experiences •Memory •Sequencing
•Body self awarenss •Sharing •Group skills
WIN™ Program Write Incredibly NOW™ Labored to Legible in 4 Exciting Sessions Manuscript and Cursive Taught
See CAMPS, Page 49
Call 770-394-9791
More information www.childrens-services.com Email: info@childrens-services.com Twitter: OTRLovesKids Blog: LDMadeEasy@blogspot.com Facebook: Childrens’ Special Services LLC **All camps billed as therapy for possible reimbursement for out of network expenses.
Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
Camps: Continued from Page 48 living skills. weekly social dancing & end-of-summer “prom” for older campers. Therapeutic horseback riding and optional day and overnight trips during summer. Exceptional facilities featuring air conditioned bunks & buildings, Junior Olympic heated pool, caring, nurturing staff. In 2015 we are excited about the launch of the Lee Mar L.I.F.E. program (Living Independently Functional Education). Visit us on the web at www.leemar.com. 215-658-1708. ari@ leemar.com
Tennessee Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont offers nature, backpacking, science adventure and family camps inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Imagine splashing around in an icy-cold mountain stream, climbing ridges to an unbelievable view, or choosing from a variety of activities to discover nature through hands-on explorations, day hikes and crafts. Options for beginning campers as well as outdoor enthusiasts - ages 5 to 95. Tremont Institute creates space for discovery, personal development and opportunities to unplug and explore. Call (865) 448-6709 or visit www. gsmit.org/GA.html. Located on the Tennessee side of the national park. Find us on Facebook @GSMITremont to see pictures and videos of the adventure that awaits!
SUMMER CAMPS • Sponsored Section
Deer Run Camps & Retreats: 3845 Perkins Road. Thompson’s Station, TN 37179. 888-794-2918. Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org. Contact@DeerRunRetreat.org. Nondenominational, Christcentered camp on 100 scenic wooded acres. Campers experience “Deeper Faith and Greater Adventures.” Agegraded sessions, grades 3 through12 plus 3-night Family Camps for ages 5 and up.. Exceptional staff lead a well-organized experience creating positive lifetime memories and building character, confidence and relationships. Allinclusive activities: lake fun (zip-line, water slide, kayaks, swimming, aqua park), horseback wooded trail rides, climbing tower, paintball, low and high ropes, cardboard boat regatta, archery, BB guns, wiffle ball, games, skits, fun songs. Daily small group Bible study plus nightly large group worship with an engaging speaker Voted the No. 1 Summer Camp in Nashville for the past six years, the YMCA Camp Widjiwagan is an actionpacked summer adventure where confidence is built through skill development, and new friends are made as a result of teamwork. Camp Widjiwagan offers progressive Day, Resident and Equestrian one-week programs for children ages 5-17. We offer a wide variety of water activates such as swimming, ski and surf school, the Blob, and an advanced sailing program. Land activities include field sports, climbing, double zip line and archery. Arts, crafts and theme production are also offered at camp. Go to www.campwidji.org to learn more or call us at 615-360-2267.
March 12, 2015 49
Have your camper join us at McGinnis Woods this summer Have your camper join us at McGinnis Woods this summer for our Sunsational Summer Camp 2015! An amazing summer filled with fun themes, caring counselors, engaging activities, art, music, interesting weekly field trips and guest speakers, water play and lots of smiles has been designed for campers ages 4-12. Camp begins May 26 and runs weekly themed sessions ending August 7. Campers may attend individual weeks or the entire summer. Camp hours are from 9am-5pm daily at a cost of $225.00 weekly. Before and/or after camp care is available at an additional fee. We will visit Zoo Atlanta, the Mayfield Dairy, the Art Barn and other local destinations and enjoy daily activities including water slides, nature walks, and group games in our beautiful new air conditioned gym. Our Specialty and Academic Camps offer a variety of educational classes to sharpen your camper’s skills and mind. Campers wanting to learn to cook, swim, do gymnastics, or act can do just that at McGinnis Woods! Have your camper join in on the fun and plan to attend our Sunsational Summer Camp. For additional information or to register, please contact us at www.mcginniswoods. org or call 770-664-7764. We look forward to seeing you this summer!
Sunsational Summer Have your camper join the fun and be part of something special: an amazing summer filled with great learning opportunities and fun! Campers’ imaginations will be sparked by the caring counselors, weekly themes, field trips, water activities and surprises!
COMMUNITY
50 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald
Robert Hunter holds one of his prize-winning paintings of an ocean liner.
Sarah Guan took honorable mention for this quirky painting of a cat.
TRMS students win prestigious art awards JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Two eighth-graders at Taylor Road Middle School won an art award in the 2015 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. • Robert Hunter won a Silver Key and two honorable mentions for his paintings. • Sarah Guan won an honorable mention for
VARSITY BRIEFS Send us your news! Email to news@appenmediagroup.com More Info: 770-442-3278
Bob Jones University GREENVILLE, S.C. – Three local students were named to the President’s List for grades achieved during the fall 2014 semester at Bob Jones University: Lauren Foushee, Roswell, majoring in graphic design; Corey Turner, Alpharetta, majoring in accounting; and Kyle Turner, Alpharetta, majoring in accounting. To qualify for the President’s List, students must earn a grade point average of 3.75 or higher.
Morehead State University MOREHEAD, Ky. – Ryan Bennett of Alpharetta and Laine Simmons of Suwanee both made the fall 2014 Dean’s List at Morehead State University.
DeSales University CENTER VALLEY, Pa. – Rebecca J. Ni of Duluth made the fall 2014 Dean’s List at DeSales University. Ni is currently majoring in medical studies.
University of Wisconsin MADISON, Wis. – Eric Amikam and Jalila Elfejji, both of
her painting. The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards are a combination of national art and writing contests that have been recognizing the talents of youth across the country since 1923. This prestigious contest attracts a large number of quality submissions each year.
Johns Creek, have been named to the fall 2014 Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin. Both Amikam and Elfejji are majoring in engineering.
Piedmont College DEMOREST, Ga. – Piedmont College celebrated over 135 new graduates in December, including the following local students: Avalla Cleveland, Duluth, master’s degree in early childhood education; Emily S. Clance, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in mass communications; Regan M. Schoch, Johns Creek, bachelor’s degree in psychology; Kristina Cabral, Suwanee, master’s degree in broadfield science education; and Richard Labocetta, Suwanee, master’s degree in broadfield science education.
University of Rhode Island KINGSTON, R.I. – Carlie E. Martin of Alpharetta was named to the fall 2014 Dean’s List at the University of Rhode Island.
Furman University GREENVILLE, S.C. – The following local students were included on the 2014 fall semester Dean’s List at Furman University: Mackenzie Curtis, Alpharetta, daughter of Maureen and Michael Curtis; Lauren Pinion, Alpharetta, daughter of Cheryl and Byron Pinion; Rachel Shah, Al-
pharetta, daughter of Mary and Gregory Shah; Alexandra Buchalski, Johns Creek, daughter of Celia and James Buchalski; and Kelly Dickson, Johns Creek, daughter of Jennifer and Ward Dickson.
Phillips Exeter Academy EXETER, N.H. – Seungmin Yoon of Suwanee achieved academic honors during the fall 2014 semester at the Phillips Exeter Academy.
Oklahoma City University OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Grace Lewis of Suwanee was named to the President’s Honor Roll for the 2014 fall semester at Oklahoma City University.
University of Dayton DAYTON, Ohio – Colin Riley and Erin Riley of Roswell both made the 2014 Dean’s List for the fall semester at the University of Dayton.
Graceland University LAMONI, Iowa – Katrina Radman of Duluth was named to Graceland University’s 2014 fall semester Dean’s List. Students with a GPA between 3.25 and 3.64 are named to the Dean’s List.
Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Alpharetta High presents ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Alpharetta High School will present a parody of Jazz Age musical comedy, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” in March. The show centers around a fan of musical comedies known only as “the man in the chair,” as he listens to a recording of the fictional 1928 blockbuster hit, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” to which he adds amusing comments. Shown first in Toronto in 1998 and opening on Broadway in 2006, “The Drowsy Chaperone” has won five Tony Awards and seven Drama Desk Awards. The family-friendly show is suitable for all ages and will be Alpharetta High School’s submission for the Georgia High School Musical Theater Shuler Hensley Awards. “The Drowsy Chaperone” will be presented March 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and March 15 and
NFCC: Continued from Page 16 other small companies how they can market themselves using the Web and social media to create an “online presence.” Fairman calls herself a serial entrepreneur and social media strategist who founded her first business in 2007. She uses Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Instagram to leverage her Web presence. Job No. 1 to having an online presence is knowing how to be found on search engines. She says having people follow you is optimal. “You can build a company using social media. You don’t need a website. Customers search using key words. You want search engines to find you,” Fairman said. Neil May is director of service delivery for Carmichael Consulting Solutions. His company consults on a variety of computer network issues, including how to protect your data from being hijacked and held for ransom. “Once you have lost your data, who would want to target you after a breach? Once is too many. Cyber-attacks are ever evolving. There are malware, phishing, proxies, botnets, spyware and spam,” said May. “Some solutions are password protection, wiping and encryption. But never allow just a password to give access to data.” Mike Bartoli is a strategic partner for Schooley Mitchell.
If you go What: Alpharetta High presents “The Drowsy Chaperone” When: March 13 – 14, 20 – 21 at 7 p.m. and March 15 and 22 at 2 p.m. Where: Alpharetta High School, 3595 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, Ga. 30005 Tickets: $10 More info: gayd@ fultonschools.org 22 at 2 p.m. at Alpharetta High School, 3595 Webb Bridge Road. Tickets are $10. For more information, email gayd@fultonschools. org. To purchase tickets online, visit www.seatyourself. biz/alphaproductions. –Adam Barth
If we don’t save you time, increase your profits and make your business more efficient, then you don’t get a bill from us.” MIKE BARTOLI Strategic partner for Schooley Mitchell
In the world of telecommunications, bandwidth, card processing and the Internet, there is often redundancy and overbilling. “If we don’t save you time, increase your profits and make your business more efficient, then you don’t get a bill from us,” Bartoli said. They all agreed the chamber’s program to offer its space and address was a great way to reach out to potential new customers. “We all sent out invitations and e-blasts. We only had to share the expense for lunch. And we not only pitched the people we contacted, we got in front of the other guests as well,” May said. Fairman and Bartoli agreed it was an effective way to meet new people and talk to them face to face.
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Notice of Public Internet Auction Johns Creek Police Department The following is a list of property located at the Johns Creek Police Dept. If you believe that you are the owner of this property, please call 678-474-1572 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Proof of ownership and a valid ID will be required to claim any property. A public internet auction of the following items will begin the week of April 13th. The auction’s website is www.propertyroom.com. Items: Golf bag with 8 iron clubs Fuzion Brand Scooter Mongoose Bicycle iPad Two brown purses Black wallet and contents Murray bicycle Mongoose BMX bicycle Black HP Tablet Black cloth purse with contents Nikon camera with Flash London fog camera bag Nikon camera and bag
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PUBLIC NOTICE City of Johns Creek Strategic Planning Workshop March 16, 2015 The Mayor and Council of the City of Johns Creek will attend a Strategic Planning Workshop on Monday, March 16, 2015 from 12:00 noon until 5:00pm. The workshop will be held in the Taylor Farms Conference Room (3rd Floor) at Johns Creek City Hall, 12000 Findley Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097. Please contact the city clerk at 678-512-3212 should you need more information. Joan Jones City Clerk
CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the City Council on Monday, April 6, 2015 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. V-15-05 Coro Realty Building- 10 Roswell Street Consideration of a request for a parking variance in order to expand office uses within an existing building. The address is 10 Roswell Street. The property is located at the southeast corner of Milton Avenue and Roswell Street and legally described as being located in Land Lot 1269, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK RFP #15-086 JOHNS CREEK STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN The City of Johns Creek is accepting sealed Request for Proposals (RFP) from qualified firms to prepare a City wide Strategic Economic Development Plan. Sealed RFP’s will be received no later than 2:00PM. on March 30, 2015 in the City of Johns Creek Purchasing Office, 12000 Findley Rd., Suite-400, Johns Creek, Georgia, 30097. RFP’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 18, 2015, at 10:00 AM at the City Hall, Chattahoochee Conference Room, 4th floor. RFP packages are available on the City of Johns Creek website (www.johnscreekga.gov). Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Purchasing Office at (678) 512-3233. RFP’s shall be presented in a sealed opaque envelope with the RFP number and name clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. The name of the company or firm submitting an RFP response should also be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. THREE (3) ORIGINALS AND ONE (1) COPY OF THE RFP ON CD MUST BE SUBMITTED. RFP’s will not be accepted verbally or by fax or email. All offerors must comply with all general and special requirements of the RFP 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. Warren Hutmacher City Manager
johnscreekherald.com | Johns Creek Herald | March 12, 2015 | 51
Mike Bodker Mayor
Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.
City of Johns Creek Notice of Public Hearing Community Development Block Grant 2014 Consolidated Plan Performance Report Purpose: Public Hearing to consider the formulation of the 2014 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Plan Performance Report (CAPER) for the City of Johns Creek, Georgia as required by Section 104 (a)(3) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, and Federal Regulation 24 CFR 91. PUBLIC HEARING: DATE AND TIME: LOCATION:
The City of Johns Creek 2014 CAPER March 30, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. 12000 Findley Road Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
The Community Development Block Grant Consolidated Plan Performance Report identifies how the city utilized 2014 CDBG federal funds to develop viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and opportunities to expand economic opportunities, principally for low to moderate income persons. Citizen input regarding the use of federal funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is vital. The City of Johns Creek 2014 allocation for the Office of Community Planning and Development’s CPD Formula program was $270,117. Public comment is welcome and should be submitted to CDBG@JohnsCreekGA.gov. All comments received will be presented to HUD upon submission of the 2014 CAPER. All documents are currently available in the City Clerk’s office, located at Johns Creek City Hall, 12000 Findley Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097. The documents may also be viewed at the following libraries: NE Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022; and Robert E. Fulton Library at Ocee, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30005. In addition, documents are available on-line at www.JohnsCreekGA.gov. If alternative formats of documents are needed, please contact the City Clerk’s office at 678-512-3212 or email a request to CDBG@JohhsCreekGA.gov. Warren Hutmacher, City Manager
52 | March 12, 2015 | Johns Creek Herald | johnscreekherald.com
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Pet of the Week: Louie Sting: FULTON COUNTY – LifeLine Animal Project has named the Fulton County Animal Services Pet of the Week: Louie. At 95 pounds, this bull mastiff is a whole lot of boy to love. Louie enjoys giving and receiving affection and has a sweet and mellow disposition. He is also gentle with children and gets along well with other dogs. Louie loves to go for walks, hangout with people and take naps in the sun. He would be a loyal and devoted family member to whomever adopts him. Come meet Louie today, and take advantage of our “Pick a Lucky Charm” promotion. During March, you’ll pay an adoption fee of only $45, including Louie’s vaccines, neuter and microchip. To meet this handsome fella, drop by the shelter, email adoptions@fultonanimalser-
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vices.com or call 404-613-0357. To view dogs or cats available for adoption, please visit the shelter at 860 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta, 30318 or go to www.fultonanimalservices.com/adopt.
Creek,” he said. “That doesn’t mean they live here, but they service this area.” Byers said the operation was a success. “Any time you get 15 arrests for a two-day operation is a success,” Byers said. Editor’s note: It is editorial policy not to name anyone arrested under the age of 21. Those arrested: • 19-year-old woman arrested for prostitution • Tarah Daracott, 35, of Flowery Branch arrested for pimping, prostitution • Chandre Noel, 23, of Arbor Creek, Roswell, arrested for prostitution. • Terrence Robinson, 27, of Old Dogwood Road, Roswell arrested for pimping.
• Stanley Ragin, 31, of Atlanta arrested for pimping. • Crystal Bozeman, 28, of Misty Lane, Roswell arrested for pimping. • Nicole Leigh Cairns, 31, of Florida arrested for prostitution. • Cindia Denis, 34, of Knoll Ridge Court, Alpharetta arrested for pimping. • Randolph Morris, 52, of Red Stone Way, Cumming, was arrested for pimping. • Candace Owen, 21, of Pickens, South Carolina, was arrested for prostitution. • Jeffrey B. Foster, 55, of Atlanta was arrested for pimping. • 19-year-old man, of Lawrenceville was arrested for pandering someone under 17. • Hai Ngoc Nguyen, 41, of Norcross was arrested for pandering. • Dewey Thurman Pitts, 46, of Marietta was arrested for pandering. • Bilen Sevgi, 34, of Anniston, Alabama, was arrested for pandering.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, April 2, 2015 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza (new City Hall), Alpharetta, Georgia. A workshop will also be held by the Planning Commission at 6:30p.m. Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday April 27, 2015 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza (new City Hall), Alpharetta, Georgia. a. MP-15-02/PH-15-09 Avalon 3 Story Parking Deck Consideration of site plan approval and a request for an amendment to the condition of zoning for the landscape buffer along Westside Parkway in order to build a parking deck. The property is located within Avalon and located at 2800 Old Milton Parkway. The legal description of the property is Land Lot 802, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. b. CU-15-01 Mezz Spa Consideration of a conditional use for spa services. The address of the property is 52 A North Main Street. The property is legally described as being located inLand Lot 1269, 2nd District, 2nd section, Fulton County, Georgia. c. CLUP-15-03/Z-15-03/V-15-04 Kimball Bridge/Northwinds Consideration of rezoning 26.77 acres from AG, R-1, R-12, R-4A to R-8A in order to develop “for-sale” detached and attached homes. A request to change the Comprehensive Land Use Plan from “Corporate Campus Office” to “High Density Residential” is also requested. Variances to the front and rear setbacks are requested as well as lot width reductions, reduce setback from Kimball Bridge from 65 feet to 50 feet, reduce setback from proposed Northwinds Parkway from 65 feet to 35 feet, reduce lot width from 50 feet to 40 feet, reduce minimum lot size from 4500 square feet to 3200 square feet, reduce road centerline from 150 feet to 32 feet, reduce buffer on northern property line from 50 feet to 15 feet, and allow grading in buffer on north and west property lines and allow grading and replanting in last 20 feet of GA 400 buffer are requested. The property is legally described as Land Lot 805, 852, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. d. PH-14-13 Regulations for the Downtown Master Plan Consideration of approval of the Downtown Master Plan regulations. The area boundaries generally included Mayfield Road and Canton Street to the North; South Main Street and Allyson Circle to the South; Wills Road to the West; and Westside Parkway to the East. e. Z-15-02/CU-15-02 City Center Consideration of rezoning approximately 26 acres from C-2 and SU to MU in order to allow a mix of uses for office, civic, commercial, residential, park and open space. A conditional use to allow for-rent dwellings is also requested. The property is generally described as being located east of Main Street and south of Academy Street, north of Thompson Street around the intersection with Haynes Bridge. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1268, 2nd District, 2nd Section, and Land Lot 748, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. f. PH-15-07 UDC Changes to Sections 4.1.1, 4.1.2, 4.2.1 Consideration of amendments to the Unified Development Code in order to establish the “Director” as a person who can initiate bringing changes to the Future Land Use Map and Text Amendments to the Planning Commission and City Council for their consideration. Changes to the Public Hearing process to amend Planning Commission procedures will also be considered. g. V-15-02 Jimmy Ellis Fruit and Vegetable Stand/Old Milton Parkway (City Council Only) Consideration of a variance for extended time on temporary tent sale. The property is located at 2485 Old Milton Parkway. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 749, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.
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College: Continued from Page 21 pearances and struck out 10 in nine innings. Roswell’s Daniel Spingola, who played at Marist, and former Blessed Trinity player Innis Keenan both start in the outfield, with Keenan batting. 409 with 10 runs and five RBI in his first 10 games. Other BT players playing regularly in college include South Carolina reliever Reed Scott; first baseman Nathaniel Maggio and pitcher Bret Marks of Tennessee (three starts, 15 innings, 15 strikeouts, 0.60 ERA); and senior outfielder Matthew Pelt of Wofford (.343, two home runs, four RBI, nine runs in 10 starts).
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CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PUBLIC NOTICE PURPOSE An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City on March 3, 2015 for Consumption on Premises of Malt Beverage, Wine and Distilled Spirits. BUSINESS NAME Taqueria Pura, LLC dba Pura Enchilada Taqueria 11550 Jones Bridge Road Suites 1-3 Johns Creek, GA 30022 OWNER/OFFICERS Taqueria Pura, LLC dba Pura Enchilada Taqueria 11550 Jones Bridge Road Suites 1-3 Johns Creek, GA 30022
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DEATH NOTICES Linda Evelyn Akins, 63, of Cumming, passed away March 3, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Nancy Bell, 69, of Alpharetta, passed away February 28, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Betty Ann Boling, 82, of Cumming, passed away March 1, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Louann Kendall, 56, of Alpharetta, passed away February 22, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Ruth Lancaster, 98, of Alpharetta, passed away February 21, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Ronal Elliott Carithers, Sr., 67, of Cumming, passed away March 1, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Debbie Cary, 64, of Alpharetta, passed away February 25, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Marjorie Lovett, 88, of Roswell, passed away February 24, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Geoffrey Richard Crabbe, 80, of Cumming, passed away February 28, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
George Maier, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away February 23, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Irene Barbara Petryk, 77, of Cumming, passed away February 25, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Leonard Purcell, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away February 13, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Mary Ray, 86, of Cumming, passed away February 13, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Frederick Raymond Jr., 71, of Alpharetta, passed away February 25, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Owner, Susan Sanchez
Brenda Daughtry, 62, of Alpharetta, passed away March 2, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Kathleen Edwards, 71, of Cumming, passed away March 1, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Bertie Bhree Elzey, 91, of Cumming, passed away March 1, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Teresa Lynn Goddard, 39, of Cumming, passed away March 1, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Leslie Holloway, 76, of Cumming, passed away February 12, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Thomas Johnson, 68, of Roswell, passed away February 26, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Frank Markham III, 50, of Alpharetta, passed away February 20, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Carolyn McBrayer, 69, of Cumming, passed away February 24, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Arnold Menze, 89, of Johns Creek, passed away February 13, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
John Ben Murphy, 70, of Cumming, passed away February 26, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Dora Rena Nichols, 47, of Cumming, passed away February 26, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Joseph Raymond Payne, 95, of Cumming passed away February 24, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
James Reynolds, 61, of Roswell, passed away February 13, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Dottie Riviere, 60, of Alpharetta, passed away February 18, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Karim Roushandel, 74, of Alpharetta, passed away March 3, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Shelby Schiller, 22, of Cumming, passed away February 25, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Robert Wood, 86, of Roswell, passed away February 17, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
Virginia Woods, 72, of Alpharetta, passed away February 10, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.
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