Milton Herald, March 18, 2015 by Appen Media Group

Summer Camps Sponsored section ►►PAGE 20

Anderson sworn in

County mgr. has big plans to reorganize Fulton ►►PAGE 5

Going bald

Taste o’ Ireland

St. Baldrick’s raises money, awareness for cancer ►►PAGE 24

Olde Blind Dog named Irish Pub of the Year ►►PAGE 13

March 18, 2015 | miltonherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 10, No. 12

Alpharetta resident celebrates 100 years Nancy Couch gets birthday party at Cottonwood Estates By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com

Nancy Couch dances with Juan Arce at her 100th birthday party.

SHANNON WEAVER/STAFF

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Nancy Couch, a resident of Cottonwood Estates in Alpharetta, says she doesn’t feel old, even though she turned 100 on March 7. “I have no feelings of being old,” Couch said. “I feel like I can get up and dance.” And dance she did at the birthday party her family and friends threw at Cottonwood. Juan Arce danced with Couch while another resident played classical guitar. Couch was born in Lebanon, Indiana in 1915 where she grew up and started her education. But during the Great Depression, her family could no longer support her. “My father ran out of money, so I had to leave school. I

went up to Detroit to live with my sister,” she said. “That was back in the days when they didn’t have money.” In Detroit, she said she worked for Chevrolet for 10 years until she moved again. “I went to Florida one year and never went back to work in Detroit,” Couch said. Couch worked for an airline before becoming a private secretary in Florida, where she met and married her husband, who passed away around three years ago. The family lived in Miami, Atlanta, Tennessee and New York before their last move to Atlanta, where Couch has stayed for over 60 years. Couch’s only child, Deborah Hooper, and her husband Bob live in Alpharetta. They found Cottonwood so that

See NANCY, Page 29

Milton named 2nd safest city in state Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Roswell in top 10 By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. – Milton was named the second safest city in Georgia for 2014, according to a national research company. Also in the top 10 are Johns Creek (No. 1), 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 per-

See SAFEST, Page 28

PUBLIC SAFETY

2 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Roswell, Johns Creek residents in tax fraud Employed crooked Social Security agent

► ► Shawn Brown, 38, of Atlanta,

Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. On March 6, 2015, Brown was sentenced to 13 years, 4 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,230,021.

ATLANTA – Two Roswell residents, an Alpharetta worker and a Johns Creek man are among the defendants convicted in a $5 million income tax fraud scheme. Nyron Nelson, 40, and Kelly Lonas, 40, both of Roswell, were convicted of wire fraud. Sergey Krayev, 40, of Johns Creek, was convicted of misprision of a felony. An Alpharetta worker, Christopher Edwards, 44, of Eutaw, Alabama, was convicted aggravated identity theft. They are among nine total people found guilty in the scheme. From approximately January 2011 until March 2012, the group ran a criminal organization that engaged in a scheme that filed fraudulent income tax returns using stolen identities. This is commonly called stolen identity refund fraud. The thieves used stolen personal identification information from over 1,000 victims, along with fake wage and withholding information, to prepare and electronically file fraudulent returns claiming over $5 million dollars in tax refunds. The IRS intercepted the majority of these fraudulent returns before refunds were issued. However, over $2 million in fraudulent refunds were sent to the defendants. During the course of the scheme, an employee of the United States Social Security Administration in Jacksonville, Florida, was hired to improperly access a Social Security Administration computer database to steal identities.

Edwards, then an employee of an Alpharetta-based asset recovery company, was hired to steal identities from a computer database he accessed through his employer. The stolen identities obtained by these men were used to file fraudulent

income tax returns. Krayev, a naturalized United States citizen from Moldova, was hired to employ individuals in Russia to file fraudulent income tax returns. More than 70 fraudulent returns were filed from Russia.

DUIS & DRUGS

►► Patrick Shaun Conley, 25, of

tain lane. ►► Jerry Steven Arehart, 48, of River Trace Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 26 on Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek for DUI. ►► Suzanne Arehart, 46, of River Trace Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 27 on Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek for DUI and failure to dim headlights. ►► Patrick Sean Sutherland, 45, of Buford was arrested Feb. 27 on McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek for DUI, speeding and no license. ►► Robin P. Palmer, 58, of Timberstone

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

DUI arrests ►► Volodymyr B. Parubochyi, 31,

of Pine Bridge Trail, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 22 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and failure to obey a traffic control device.

► ► Maurice Pollock, 33, of

Mableton, Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. On March 6, 2015, Pollock was sentenced to serve 5 years, 10 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $888,697. ► ► Marcus Behling, 31, of Powder

Springs, Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. On March 11, 2015, Behling was sentenced to serve 3 years, 3 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $698,249.66. ► ► Jonathan Stubbs, 32, of

Mableton, Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. On March 6, 2015, Stubbs was sentenced to serve 6 years, 1 month in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $659,599.94. ► ► Nyron Nelson, 40, of Roswell,

Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy

Marietta was arrested Feb. 21 on Ga. 400 in Roswell for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Asa Kimoto Taylor, 37, of Lawrenceville was arrested Feb. 18 on Beaver Creek Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Damon Elliot Knight, 45, of Pine Grove Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 24 on Pine Grove Drive in Alpharetta for DUI and operating unsafe equipment. ►► Chase Alan Riner, 23, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 22 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to main-

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to commit wire fraud. On March 6, 2015, Nelson was sentenced to serve 3 years, 1 month in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $98,671.

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► ► Kelly Lonas, 40, of Roswell,

Georgia, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On March 6, 2015, Lonas was sentenced to serve 2 years, 5 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $98,671. ► ► Ronald Bennett, 30, of Hiram,

Georgia, was convicted of computer fraud and aggravated identity theft. On March 6, 2015, Bennett was sentenced to serve 2 years, 3 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,000. ► ► Christopher Edwards, 44, of

Eutaw, Alabama, was convicted aggravated identity theft. On March 6, 2015, Edwards was sentenced to serve 2 years in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $9,265. ► ► Sergey Krayev, 40, of Johns

Creek, Georgia, was convicted of misprision of a felony. On March 6, 2015, Krayev was sentenced to serve 1 year on probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $31,036.

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PUBLIC SAFETY

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.

Everything not awesome MILTON, Ga. – A 17-year-old boy was arrested March 5 after allegedly trying to steal nearly $260 in Lego sets from a store. Police were called to the Windward Walmart about 6:20 p.m. after employees said they saw the young man select

Arrests:

Continued from Page 2 Road, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 28 on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Leanne Chaney Belt, 45,

several sets from the shelves – including one set valued at $130 – take them out of their boxes and stuff them into a backpack. He then left the store without paying for the items. He was stopped at the door and arrested for shoplifting.

Copper thief takes wiring MILTON, Ga. – Someone stole $3,500-worth of copper wiring from a construction site March 5. The victim told police he was in charge of the Birmingham Highway location where several homes were of Cogburn Road, Milton, was arrested Feb. 25 on Green Road in Milton for DUI, open container and improper passing. ► ► Sharma Pandyaram, 49, of Lembeth Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 25 on Highway 9 in Milton for DUI.

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What’s got his goat? MILTON, Ga. – Four young men were arrested March 7 after allegedly making off with a resident’s goat. According to a police report, one of the victims, on Bethany Church Road, reported hearing his dog barking outside at nearly midnight. When he went to

Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 3

investigate, he saw two white trucks parked near the side of the road and four men outside. When he confronted them, one of the men claimed he had a shotgun. The victim went home and called police. He noticed the men had something large in their hands as they got into their trucks and sped off. Police were able to find one truck matching the description just down the road. They also found a wallet belonging to one of the occupants of the truck in the victim’s yard. Also in the truck was a goat. The victim’s neighbor

See BLOTTER, Page 28

CORRECTION In the Milton Herald’s article “McClain, Gridley earn SEC baseball honors” from March 10, it was reported that Vanderbilt University lost the 2014 NCAA baseball championship. Former Northview baseball player and Vanderbilt catcher Jason Delay was part of the Commodore team that won the national championship in 2014.

NEWS

4 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Milton Parks and Rec chooses NAFL Advisory board stands by recommendation By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Parks and Recreation advisory board meeting March 9 yielded the same recommendation for the city’s official youth tackle football provider they had made last month: the North Atlanta Football League, previously known as Alpharetta Youth Football League. Four members voted in favor of recommending NAFL, one opposed and two recused themselves from voting. The initial recommendation was met with some opposition when coaches and parents of New Found Life Youth Football League (NFLYFL), playing as the Milton Steelers, spoke out against the recommendation at a Feb. 9 council work session. Council advised the Parks Department to gather new data to inform their decision. NAFL is an older and larger organization, while NFLYFL is based in Milton and is the provider for flag football. In all of its programs, NAFL was found to have 409 total participants with 198 Milton residents in 2014.

Milton field space. “We have 30 yards of grass for all of our programs. We think we have a very strong program, but we need space to grow,” Dawson said. “Providing alternatives is a good thing. Competition makes both programs stronger.” Bill Weaver, president of NAFL, disNFLYFL had 89 players, 62 of which cussed the newly rebranded organization. were Milton residents. “This is about kids, and none of us “It doesn’t appear that the information ever forget this,” Weaver said. “This is has changed substantially,” said advisory about what I believe is the most imporboard member Sue Rekuc at tant program in our the March 9 meeting. community, and that’s Representatives from youth football.” both programs made their Buddy Curry of case at the meeting. NAFL’s board supportMatt Dawson, a Milton ed the program. Steelers coach, compared “I would describe NFLYFL to Hopewell Basethe NAFL program as ball, the city’s youth baseball very innovative. They program. are very active in pro“Based on numbers moting safety,” Curry alone, Hopewell Baseball said. “I’ve seen these would not have been choguys every Saturday on sen,” Dawson said. “It’s the field and they make about more than just who’s sure the programs BUDDY CURRY bigger.” are run correctly. It’s NAFL’s board supported the program Dawson said that as the about the heart.” program provider for AlThe issue will come pharetta, NAFL has access to before the City Council North Park and Wills Park in addition to for a final vote at a future meeting.

Read about the rebranding of AYFA to North Atlanta Football League, Page 9.

I would describe the NAFL program as very innovative. They are very active in promoting safety.”

Milton looks at Greenway expansion March 17 Meeting to discuss city’s trail plans, Greenway connection MILTON, Ga. - Residents hoping for a Big Creek Greenway connection in Milton will want to be at City Hall Tuesday, March 17 when the city’s Public Works staff unveils its plans for the Milton Trail System. The drop-in meeting will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

At 5:30 p.m. consultants from Stantec, the firm chosen to do the trail study, will hold an interactive polling exercise. At the meeting, Public Works staff invites residents to help identify important trail connection points, issues and problem areas, and priority of

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system improvements. “This is a huge project, and one for which our residents have been asking for some time,” said Carter Lucas, assistant city manager and Public Works director. “Everyone loves the connectivity and ease of the Big Creek Greenway that spans Forsyth County, Alpharetta and Roswell. “We’re an important part of connecting all three.” Sara Leaders, project manager for the Milton trail, said the meeting marks the first public step in connecting large portions of Milton with trails, gravel roads and sidewalks. The city is hoping first to establish a connection in the south of the city with Forsyth County’s portion of the Big Creek Greenway, then build out. “This is a great step in our eventual goal of a unified trail system throughout the area,” she said. In 2014, Milton secured Transportation Alternatives

Program funding to develop a concept study for connectivity from Milton to the Big Creek Greenway System. The goal of the study is to enhance the alternative transportation and recreation options available to residents through partnership with the City of Alpharetta and the North Fulton Community Improvement District. The Milton Trail Plan is the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan for the City of Milton. The first draft was completed by a Citizens Committee with Georgia Tech and city staff support in 2007. It was updated in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan passed Nov. 5, 2012. The plan calls for horse, bike and pedestrian friendly multi-use paths that follow the public roadways (i.e., in the front yard). The trail will be accessible from school locations. Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations will be made in cooperation with disability groups, with routine accommodation where possible. —Jonathan Copsey

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NEWS

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 5

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.”

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6 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Kelly making bid for Fulton GOP party chairmanship

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ROSWELL, Ga. – Longtime Fulton Republican Party volunteer and campaign organizer Trey Kelly spoke to supporters Sunday, Feb. 22, about his campaign to be chairman of the Fulton County Republican Party. Speaking at the home of staunch party supporters Jack and Kay Kent, he hammered home the message that “We need to focus on the right opponent and that’s the liberal left.” His message was greeted with applause and cheers from supporters. The chairmanship is currently held by Roger Bonds of Roswell, who is not seeking a third term. Kelly worked his way up through the ranks of the Republican Party beginning as a young Republican volunteering serve in various campaigns including Fulton County superior court judge, U.S. Senate races, and presidential. He is the former Georgia Republican Party’s first vice chairman for the 5th Congressional District and a 2013 alumnus of the Republican Leadership for Georgia (formerly the Coverdale Leadership Institute). An 18-year veteran in the insurance and financial services industry, Kelly is the

Trey Kelly, candidate for chairman of the Fulton County Republican Party, speaks to supporters at the home of Jack and Kay Kent in Roswell. chief executive officer of the Atlanta Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. He also serves as government relations chairman of the Georgia Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. “Based on my background in the Republican Party, my experience with the asso-

ciation, and my vision for the future, I am uniquely qualified for the position,” Kelly said. “The next two years are critical to our country’s future, as a county party we need to work with our Republican elected officials in Fulton County and the Georgia Republican Party to grow the base and increase

voter turnout.” A native of Atlanta, Trey Kelly and his wife Carmen live in Buckhead. For more information about his campaign for Fulton County Republican Chairman, find him on Facebook at www. facebook.com/treyforchairman.

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OPINION

8 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Submit your opinions to news@appenmediagroup.com

A REMEMBRANCE:

Fulton Commissioner Tom Lowe: A life of service Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe was a true legend as the Fulton commissioner for Sandy Springs for 40 years. Still, LOWE 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

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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 Com-

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mission, 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 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. 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. 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.

Tom 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.

COMMUNITY

Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 9 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

AYFA rebrands as North Atlanta Football League 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

Teachers, students follow MLK legacy MILTON, Ga. – The students and teachers of Crabapple Middle School honored leaders in their community who exemplified the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Anna Jackson coordinates and leads our mentoring program where several community members work with students to encourage them, build confidence and help them with skills necessary for life beyond high school. She is kind and generous person that has committed to working with young adults for their betterment. From left are Teacher Lorraine Conner Roark. formed a club at CMS called No Place for Hate. She provides students with the tools necessary to effectively address bullying. Students learn why bullying occurs, what makes one kid a target and another not a target. She teaches students how to advocate for peers that have been targeted. She also spearheaded a “positive Post It” campaign where students used Post Its to place on lockers to encourage fellow students. This campaign was done school wide during home-

Anna Jackson, Lorraine Conner and Paul

room. Student Paul Roark dedicated one morning a week for a year to tutor students at Roswell North Elementary School to build their confidence and make them feel successful. The counselor, Mrs. Fofana, said that he played a vital role part in helping these students improve in their academics.

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 com-

pete 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.

10 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald

Senior returns ‘between the hedges’

COMMUNITY

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Nonprofit makes bucket list wish come true By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. – The music roused the crowd, and a sea of red and black waved in encouragement Feb. 28. Unlike a normal football game, tailgate or pep rally, this crowd was indoors, at the Arbor Terrace at Crabapple. Resident Al Thompson played for the University of Georgia football team – “Go Dawgs!” – between 1946 and 1950. In his room at Arbor Terrace, Thompson still has many of the memorabilia he collected from his time there, including his jersey and letter jacket. He still fits into both, and he wore them for the rally. Members of the Redcoats Alumni Pep Band performed in the main room of the senior living community, playing many of the fight songs and marches they play at football games and tailgates. Stephanie Mock, engagement director at Arbor Terrace,

Al Thompson played football for UGA 50 years ago. He was able to relive a college tailgate Feb. 28. said the day was meant to be a special one. “We saw an opportunity to help one of our seniors relive past memories or complete those wishes they weren’t able to do,” Mock said. Marietta-based nonprofit Second Wind Dreams helped coordinate the tailgate event. Second Wind Dreams makes wishes happen, aiming to help

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

Alpharetta resident Al Thompson wears his original football jersey and letter jacket from his time in university in 1950. seniors complete their bucket list of wishes while they still can. At the end of the tailgate, Thompson was presented with a UGA football signed by head coach Mark Richt, who was not able to make the event. “I can tell enough how much this means,” said Thompson’s son, Matt. “It’s re-

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ally something special. Football is a big part of his life. All we talk about is Georgia football.” Thompson married in 1949 when he was a senior at Georgia. He and his wife had six children. His son and grandson both played football at their universities. As a resident in the memory care unit at Arbor Terrace,

talking about football means a lot to Thompson, allowing him to relive his glory days on the field. “This is the one thing that can light him back up,” Mock said. For more about Second Wind Dreams and their mission, visit them at www.secondwind.org.

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

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 11

ryland.com

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• Oﬀering New Home Designs and 71 Minimum 1-Acre Basement Homesites • Select Homesites Border The Manor Golf Course and the ManorView Lake • 3-Car Side Entry Garages or 2-Car Side Entry Garages with Additional 3rd Garage Per Plan • The Manor Golf and Country Club Close By • 2.5 Miles to Atlanta Hwy. (Hwy. 9), 6.5 Miles to GA 400 and Convenient to Shopping, Fine Dining and Entertainment • Easy Access to Fowler Park, Big Creek Greenway and Birmingham Park • Community is Bordered By the City of Alpharetta to the South, Forsyth County to the East and Cherokee County to the North and West

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For more information, please call Frank Allen at 678-672-0862 or visit ryland.com. In the Atlanta division, ManorView community only, homebuyers for to-be built homes on accepted purchase agreements signed between March 1, 2015 and March 31, 2015 are eligible to receive $25,000 in Flex Cash; can be used towards MyStyle® Design Center Options and/or closing costs when using RMC Mortgage® and/or lot premiums. Buyer also eligible to receive $5,000 in Closing Costs. Closing cost assistance available from Ryland Homes to those financing through RMC Mortgage® Corporation and closing with a closing attorney selected by Ryland. Amount of closing cost assistance may vary by product and community, and is subject to applicable contribution limitations. For all financing promotions, see a RMC Mortgage® Corporation Loan Officer for details. RMC Mortgage® Corporation is located at 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30022 and is a Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee, license number 24225 and NMLS number 203897. Buyers also eligible to receive Waived 1% Origination Fee through RMC Mortgage®; average value of $4,000 which is based on a $400,000 loan amount. The waived origination fee through RMC Mortgage® Corporation is subject to cancellation or change without notice. Buyers must make a loan application by March 31, 2015 with RMC Mortgage® Corporation (NMLS# 203897) a Georgia Residential Mortgage Lender Licensee #24225. *Buyers must also close with RMC Mortgage® Corporation. Please contact your RMC Mortgage® Corporation Representative for exact quotes. Prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Ryland’s promotion may not be combined with any other promotion or incentives. Information shown believed to be accurate but not warranted. See a Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. © 2015 The Ryland Group, Inc. RA1788

COMMUNITY

12 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Kroger offers $25K reward for information in slaying ATLANTA – Kroger Atlanta Division is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of Josh Richey, a 38-year-old father of four from Hayden, Ala. Mr. Richey was tragically

killed Tuesday, March 11, at the Kroger at 725 Ponce de Leon Ave. in Northeast Atlanta during an attempt to steal his work vehicle. So far, no arrests have been made in the case. Kroger is continuing to cooperate with the Atlanta Police

Department in their investigation. The Atlanta Police Department released surveillance video Tuesday that showed the two suspects and the car, a black BMW, that is believed they used to flee the scene. Anyone with any informa-

tion about the case should call Crime Stoppers at 404-577TIPS (8477). Mr. Richey’s employer, RGWilliams Construction based in Homer, Ga., has also set up a

fund to help the Richey family. Donations to the Josh Richey Memorial Fund can be made at any SunTrust Bank. The account number is 1000177716346.

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10th annual “Georgia Rides to the Capitol” March 24 ROSWELL, Ga. - The 10th annual “Georgia Rides to the Capitol” cycling event will take place March 24. The event will raise support for improved conditions for bicycling in Georgia, including the development of regional bicycling facilities and multiuse trails. Along with Roswell Mayor Jere Wood, riders will leave from Roswell City Hall at 9:45 a.m. and travel with a police

escort along Roswell Rd., Piedmont Rd., Juniper St. and MLK Dr. to the State Capitol building. Novice or amateur riders are encouraged to take the Decatur route, which starts at the East Lake MARTA station, or join the Roswell route closer to the city. The event is free of charge but donations are encouraged. To register or for more information, visit www. GeorgiaRidestotheCapitol.org. —Joe Parker

March 28th

Craft Beer, Food, Music and Fun.

Whats not to love! • Over 250 beers including rare cask beers • Food vendors from 6 local restaurants • Live music from 2 different bands • Souvenir tasting glass with ticket purchase • General admission at 2pm, VIP entry at 1pm (must be 21 years old to enter) • Held at Historic Roswell Town Square

www.roswellbeerfestival.com

COMMUNITY

Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Olde Blind Dog chosen as Irish Pub of the Year First American pub This award is yet another to earn the award By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

Old Blinde Dog General Manager Geoff Kokoszka says he is excited over winning Irish Pub of the Year. This is the first time an American pub has won the honor.

Now available at your favorite restaurants and growler shops through Milton, Alpharetta, and Roswell.

MILTON, Ga. – Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub has even more reason to celebrate as St. Patrick’s Day draws closer. The Irish Pubs Global Federation has chosen Olde Blind Dog as the winner of the Irish Pub of the Year. This is the first time an American pub has won the award. Criteria for selection included authenticity, ambience, effective use of social media, market position, online customer ratings and warmth of staff. “This award is yet another achievement for this outstanding pub, its staff, management and owner,” said Enda O’Coineen, founder and honorary president of the Irish Pubs Global Federation. “A pub can have beautiful furniture, great service and wonderful food, but to be Irish Pub of the Year, it must also have a soul, that spark that sets it apart.” The key was “craic,” a fes-

achievement for this outstanding pub, its staff, management and owner.” ENDA O’COINEEN Founder and honorary president of the Irish Pubs Global Federation

tive and good spirit, said Milton resident Ron Wallace, owner of the Olde Blind Dog. “We are very honored and shocked,” Wallace said. “Isn’t it something? A little pub in Milton, Georgia, of all places in the world?” He said he wanted to create “an environment that was warm, friendly and authentic to the Irish pub experience.” The pub won as the result of international polling and voting. The winner was announced at a large dinner hosted by Guinness Brewery. Both Olde Blind Dog pubs

– in Milton and Brookhaven – were recognized. The first Olde Blind Dog was opened in Milton in 2009. The Milton Olde Blind Dog is located at 12650 Crabapple Road in Milton.

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14 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

SCHOOLS

Free Atlanta National College Fair coming March 22 The Atlanta National College Fair will be Sunday, March 22, at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park from noon to 4 p.m. As the process of applying to and selecting a college becomes more and more competitive and complex, students and parents need all the help and information they can get. Sponsored by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and hosted by the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling (SACAC), this event is free and open to the public. Complete information about this National College Fair can be found online: www.nacacnet.org/atlanta. Students are encouraged to register prior to attending the event. Register online at www.gotomyncf.com. Attending a college fair is the best way to gather information about colleges and universities. The National College Fair program provides valuable resources for students and parents attempting to navigate the college-admission process. The fair allows students and parents to meet one-on-one with admission representatives from a wide range of national and international, public and private, two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Participants will learn about admission requirements, financial aid, course

The resources and opportunities that the National College Fairs provide for students and their families are invaluable.” GREG FERGUSON NACAC director of National College Fairs Programs and Services

offerings, and campus environment, as well as other information pertinent to the college-selection process. At the fair’s counseling center, students and parents can discuss their individual needs with college experts. “The resources and opportunities that the National College Fairs provide for students and their families are invaluable,” said Greg Ferguson, NACAC director of National College Fairs Programs and Services, “and admission professionals have been delighted by the caliber of students attending our programs.”

If you’re 50 or older or have a family history of colon cancer, a preventive screening is just what the doctor ordered. In fact, when detected in its early stages, colon cancer is one of the most highly treatable and preventable cancers. Drinking the colon prep isn’t as bad as you’ve heard, and the procedure itself can take less than 30 minutes.

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

American Hebrew Academy GREENSBORO, N.C. – Roland Rosenberg of Cumming was named to the American Hebrew Academy Dean’s Honor Roll for the 2014 fall trimester. Rosenberg maintained an average of 90 or higher and was one of 39 students to qualify for this achievement.

Messiah College MECHANICSBURG, Pa. – Meghan Boyle of Alpharetta has graduated from Messiah College with a degree in mathematics. Boyle was a member of the College Honors Program.

DeSales University CENTER VALLEY, Pa. – Rebecca J. Ni of Duluth has made the Dean’s List at DeSales University. Ni is currently majoring in medical studies.

Harding University SEARCY, Ark. – The following local students recently graduated from Harding University. Brooke Tabor of Duluth received a bachelor’s degree

NON PAI

in early childhood education. Victoria Sams of Suwanee received a bachelor’s degree in social work.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Milton Park Jr. of Alpharetta made the spring 2014 Dean’s List at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Park is currently studying civil engineering.

Marquette University MILWAUKEE, Wis. – Emily Butler of Alpharetta made the spring 2014 Dean’s List at Marquette University.

Centre College DANVILLE, Ky. – Jenny Connor, a graduate of King’s Ridge Christian School from Alpharetta, is a member of the Centre College graduating class of 2014. Connor, who received a bachelor’s degree in psychology, is one of 325 students to graduate from Centre in 2014.

Columbus State University COLUMBUS, Ga. – Christo-

SCHOOLS

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 15

pher Barner and Daniela Volkovinsky, both of Alpharetta, graduated from Columbus State University after the 2014 spring semester.

administration.

Mercer University

HARROGATE, Tenn. – Brittany Jenkins of Alpharetta received the C.W. and Gladys T. Bradley Memorial Scholarship. Jenkins was among 264 students recognized at the Lincoln Memorial University Student Awards and Recognition Program.

MACON, Ga. – Mercer University recently celebrated over 1,900 new graduates including the following local students. Mohsina Hossain, Cumming, master’s degree in teaching; Emily Caton, Cumming, bachelor’s degree in nursing; Mary McCright, Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in nursing; Alissa Gauger, Milton, bachelor’s degree in nursing; Sarah Tuell, Alpharetta, master’s degree in business administration; Christina Robinson, Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in applied science; Shannon Curtis, Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in social sciences; Kaitlyn Schmitt, Roswell, master’s degree in business administration; Dustin Bowen, Cumming, bachelor’s degree in science; Alessia Jankowski, Roswell, bachelor’s degree in science; Alfred Kamczyc, Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in engineering; Paige Sforzo, Cumming, bachelor’s degree in engineering; Matthew Bone, Roswell, bachelor’s degree in business administration; Maaz Sheikh, Duluth, bachelor’s degree in science; and Kevin Alexander, Johns Creek, bachelor’s degree in business

Lincoln Memorial University

Brenau University GAINESVILLE, Ga. – Brian Pinion of Alpharetta displayed his graduate work at the High Museum in Atlanta for the Master in Interior Design Exhibition. Pinion has a master’s degree in interior design from Brenau University.

Berry College MOUNT BERRY, Ga. – Berry College recently celebrated 60 new fall 2014 graduates, including the following local students: Kelsey Campbell, Roswell, bachelor’s degree in communication; Richie Keezer, Roswell, bachelor’s degree in psychology; Lindsay Luckett, Alpharetta, bachelor’s degree in accounting; and Eve Israel, Roswell, education specialist degree in educational leadership.

Mercersburg Academy MERCERSBURG, Pa. – Clare Liss of Alpharetta and Erin Pak of Duluth were named to the fall Honor Roll at Mercersburg Academy. They both were named a commended scholar for having all grades of 85 and above.

Ga. Southwestern State University AMERICUS, Ga. – The following local students have recently graduated from Georgia Southwestern State University: Thomas Chapman, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in business administration in management; Aniko Horne, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in psychology; Crystal Neal, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in dramatic arts; Deborah Obinwa, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in nursing; Amara Quddus, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in accounting; and Cindy Ring, Suwanee, bachelor’s degree in accounting. In addition, the following local students made the fall 2014 Dean’s List at Georgia Southwestern State: Rachel Creagan of Roswell, Lindsey Fetner of Duluth, Katherine Hollingsworth of Roswell, Erin Quinn of Roswell, Amelia Cornell of Cumming and Amara Quddus of Suwanee.

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16 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Sponsored Section

Milton Herald | March 18, 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.

Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

SUMMER CAMPS • Sponsored Section

McGinnis Woods Country Day School 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!

March 18, 2015 21

22 March 18, 2015

Camp listings

Sponsored Section • SUMMER CAMPS July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31.

Day Camps 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! MetropolitanBallet.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,

Music

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 Roswell; sponsored by The Atlanta Irish Music School. Register online at: www. atlantairishmusicschool.com. 770-712-9334 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 icecream 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 1218 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 camps- Science, 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 Info available at www.eagleboyssoccercampsor contact: Sonny Travis Emory Men’s Head Soccer Coach 404-727-0597 sonny.travis@emory.edu Girls Camps Full Day Camps - June 1-5 / July 6-10 for girls ages 7-14, extended care available Info available at www.emorysportscamps.com and scroll to girls soccer o r 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

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, cook-outs, 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 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. 215-6581708. ari@leemar.com

Tennessee

Adventure & Travel Catalina Sea Camp and AstroCamp are two amazing adventure summer camps. Located on beautiful Catalina

Deer Run Camps & Retreats: 3845 Perkins Road. Thompson’s Station, TN 37179. 888-794-2918. Camps. DeerRunRetreat.org. Contact@ DeerRunRetreat.org. Nondenominational, Christ-centered camp on 100 scenic wooded acres. Campers experience “Deeper Faith and Greater Adventures.” Age-graded sessions, grades 3 through12 plus

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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. All-inclusive 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 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! 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. 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.

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24 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald

Making bald heads for St. Baldrick’s

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Shaving for childhood cancer support By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The Harp Irish Pub was full Sunday, March 8. While that may not be much of a surprise, what is a surprise is the reason – to shave heads. The Roswell pub was hosting its annual St. Baldrick’s fundraiser. Since 2007, the Harp has hosted the event to raise funds for research into childhood cancer. The Harp event alone has raised more than $387,000 for childhood cancer research, and raised over $80,000 last year, said Tanya Connolly-Walsh. It hopes to recreate that effort this year. Connolly-Walsh, whose family owns the Harp, is personally affected by childhood cancer. Her son was just 6

weeks old when he was diagnosed with cancer. “I’ll never forget that date – March 17,” said ConnollyWalsh. Her son, Keelin, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma 10 years ago. He has been cancer-free for seven years. Since then, the need for childhood research and support has been on ConnollyWalsh’s mind. Much like a race, St. Baldrick events have participants shave their heads to raise money. Marietta resident Pryor Paxton has shaved his head for four years at the event. This year, he brought two of his sons – James, 14, and Luke, 9, who was the youngest participant for the day. “I felt bad for the kids who have cancer and lose their hair,” James said.

JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

The Paxton family – from left, James, Pryor and Luke – each shave their heads to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancer. Pryor said he was proud his sons joined him this year. “It’s great to have them do it,” he said. “It’s a great organization.” Team Spider Monkey has about seven members from throughout the metro Atlanta region. They make a habit of doing

St. Baldrick’s events. All together, they have raised almost $150,000. Spider Monkey founder John Vestal, of Cumming, said he heard about the events after a similar Georgia Tech headshaving event. “I decided I wanted to learn more about it,” he said. “I saw

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the effect of cancer but also saw the treatment impairing the quality of life.” Better treatment is needed. Thus the need for fundraisers to help discover those treatments. For more information on St. Baldrick’s, visit www.stbaldricks.org.

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 25

FCS 8th grader Robby Griffin’s brochure won first place in a contest for the Sons of the American Revolution.

Fellowship Christian brochure wins award PHOTOS BY JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF

First Lady Sandra Deal reads to a class of students at Alpharetta’s Primrose School March 9.

First lady visits Primrose School

ROSWELL, Ga. - Fellowship Christian 8th grader Robby Griffin won first place in a brochure design contest for the Sons of the American Revolution. Griffin’s brochure theme was foundational documents

and was sponsored by the Piedmont Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution based in Roswell. Griffin’s brochure will be entered in the state competition. —Joe Parker

Sandra Deal reads to children By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal paid a special visit to the children of the Primrose School at Alpharetta March 9. She read to the students as part of her early education advocacy. She read from the book “TJ’s Discovery,” about a little girl confronting her fear of the dark while on a camping trip with her family. TJ hears hoots and whistles in the dark, and her imagination fills in the rest. “What would you pack if you were going camping?” Deal asked, encouraging the children to take an active role in the reading. Their answers? A flashlight, sleeping bag, toothbrush or a teddy bear. The visit was part of Deal’s tour of the state for Read Across Georgia month, encouraging children to pick

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First Lady Sandra Deal is joined by two park rangers March 9 at the Primrose School to talk about animals outside. up books and read at young ages. The book was written by teachers at the Rollins Center for Language and Literacy at the Atlanta Speech School. Park rangers accompanied Deal to the classroom of about 30 children in the pre-K and kindergarten class. They told the children about wild animals and what fun can be had while camping at the state parks. Deal launched her Read Across Georgia initiative in

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support of Gov. Nathan Deal’s goal of increasing the percentage of children reading at grade level by the completion of third grade. All children in the state’s pre-K and kindergarten programs will get a copy of the book. For more about the book and the Atlanta Speech School, visit https://www.atlantaspeechschool.org/rollins. For more on the Primrose School, visit www.primrosealpharetta.com.

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. - Emory Minnich, a student at Alpharetta Elementary School, has won the “Yes, I Can” Award from the Council for Exceptional Children. Minnich was recognized for her improvement in athletics. Minnich participates in the Fulton County Schools Special Olympics program. —Joe Parker

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26 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

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Concorde Fire Soccer Club wins in Alabama BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The boys Concorde Fire Soccer teams won all four brackets they competed in at the Red Diamond Vulcan Cup Soccer Tournament in Birmingham, Alabama. The Concorde Fire U11 North White team won

the U11 silver bracket, the U12 North Black won the U12 Gold I and II bracket and the Central Elite II won the U13 silver bracket. 261 teams from nine states competed. —Joe Parker

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Georgia Rush Soccer signing day MILTON, Ga. - Georgia Rush Soccer held a signing day in which four players signed letters of intent to play at the collegiate level. Cade Pantano signed with Belmont Abbey, Brittany Rogers signed with Shorter University, Samantha Schoopy with Berry College and Josh Gray with Indiana University-Purdue

University-Indianapolis. Front Row, left to right: Cade Pantano, Brittany Rogers, Samantha Schoppy, Josh Gray. Back row, left to right: Juan Castellanos, Georgia Rush President Fahmi El-Shami, Ricky Clarke and goalkeeper director Ried Thiel. —Jonathan Copsey

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 27

Serving those with special needs: Local company provides certification Special Needs Certified started by Milton High grad By JOE PARKER news@northfulton.com MILTON, Ga. - Milton High graduate Lindsey Turner’s company Special Needs Certified provides training and instruction for businesses on how to address and serve those with special needs. Turner stated that the foundation of Special Needs Certified is built upon taking any unease out of serving those with special needs and on how to interact with individuals and families with special needs. Recently, the city of Milton became the first government organization to become Special Needs Certified. Special Needs Certified provides online videos for business employees that provide instruction on the special needs population, engaging those with special needs and serving those with special needs. Test questions are given at the end of each video and a perfect score is required to attain certification. Companies are also listed on Special Needs Certified’s website, creating a database for those with special

needs or families to browse companies that have earned certification. The cost is a flatfee of $365 dollars a year. Founder Lindsey Turner began Golden Soldiers, a nonprofit that provided events, activities and services for families and individuals with developmental disabilities. Turner said that he continually received calls from parents and individuals stating that they received “the upmost acceptance and love” at the events, and that they desired that kind of treatment at local businesses. Turner was working in the software business when he decided to quit. He said he found himself sitting at Starbucks, unemployed, trying to formulate ideas on what career track to pursue. That is when he had what he calls his “Starbucks moment.” “I saw how the employees interacted with the customers and came up with the idea [for Special Needs Certified].” From there, Turner ran with the idea and began formulating the curriculum, taping the instructional videos, speaking with software firms and snatching up every domain-name he could. Special Needs Certified launched in Oct. of 2014 and become incorporated in February. Turner states Special Needs

Milton is currently the only government organization to be considered Special Needs Certified. Certified focuses on “eradicating the nervousness in dealing with special needs and the appropriate things to say and do.” Instruction addresses issues such as how to address people in wheelchairs, how servers should approach those with special needs and how to feel comfortable assisting those with hearing or visual impairments. “Some people may think it is okay to say something when it really isn’t,” he said. “That’s the focus of the instruction. People just aren’t educated. If

I can provide that education I make people enjoy life more and make people feel better.” Turner states that Special Needs Certified’s instruction is “fully encompassing” in the types of special needs they address, from cognitive, neurological and physical. “We don’t mean to label. We wanted to word it in a way that businesses would understand what the service provides.” Special Needs Certified is for any business, as Turner states, “from bowling alleys to speech therapists.”

On City of Milton becoming certified, Turner stated that “Milton is one of the most innovative cities and a great community to work with.” He also stated he would like to see other cities in the area to also partner with Special Needs Certified. All instruction takes place online, but special arrangements can be made for half-day or day workshops. To browse the list of Special Needs Certified businesses or for more information, visit www.specialneedscertified. com.

Milton High School drumline holds exhibition MILTON, Ga. — Milton High School’s Indoor Drumline will perform an exhibition that promises a night of entertainment for the whole family. On Friday, March 20, the Milton High School Indoor Drumline will perform their new show entitled, “The Witching Hour” which features 30 highly skilled performers. In addition to the Milton Indoor Drumline, there will be two other exciting performances featuring the Milton Varsity Guard with their show “Our New World” and the JV Guard with their show entitled “Lovely.” Atlanta Quest, an independent percussion and musical arts organization, will be special guest performers. The show date is Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m. in the Milton High School gymnasium. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults, which include all performances and a dessert bar. —Shannon Weaver

Milton girls lacrosse off to good start MILTON, Ga. – The Milton High School Girls Lacrosse team opened their 2015 season March 4 with a 15-9 win over Walton. The scoring went back and forth in the first half. Milton had several opportunities but had nine turnovers in the first half on 43 percent shooting but lead 6 - 5 at half time. They opened up the second half scoring three goals in 2 minutes to stretch the lead.

Milton Girls Lacrosse coach Tim Godby said he was pleased with the performance and hoped to build on the win. Jessi Masinko had 7 goals, 1 assist, 2 ground balls, 1 draw control, 1 caused TO; Hannah Davis had 3 goals, 4 ground balls, 2 draw controls, 1 caused TO; Emily Velez had 2 goals; Jordan Goldstein had 1 goal; Maddie Langley had 1 goal; Courtney Hutchinson had 1 goal. —Jonathan Copsey

28 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Blotter: Continued from Page 3 reported missing a goat, and claimed he knew one of the suspects. One of the teens said he wanted the goat in order to ask a girl to the prom by saying, “Would you goat with me to prom?” One of the young men was 16 years old. The others were 17. They were charged with theft of livestock.

DEATH NOTICES Hildegard E. Avery, 89, of Cumming, passed away March 10, 2015. Arrangements by Short Funeral Home, Milton, DE. Rae Laslie Baker, 79, of Cumming, passed away March 7, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Larry J. Chambers, 72, of Cumming, passed away March 5, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Joyce Seabolt Cook, 61, of Cumming, passed away March 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Carl Henry Edwards, 88, of Cumming, passed away March 7, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Starlin Jarvis, Sr., 73, of Cumming, passed away March 6, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Michael Raymond Martin, 34, of Cumming, passed away March 7, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Dealer robbed by men with stun guns JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – In a drug deal gone wrong, a man was robbed at stun-gunpoint Feb. 23 near Chattahoochee High School. Police were called to Streamside Drive about 4 p.m. after a report came in of an armed robbery. The victim told police two men robbed him with a stun gun, then drove away. When police found the suspect car, the driver told them he and his friend, the victim, had met with two men for a drug deal. One of the buyers pulled the stun gun, grabbed the marijuana and ran off. When the victim gave chase, the other man pulled a

Safest: Continued from Page 1 cent 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

Andrew Clifford Satterfield, 87, of Alpharetta, passed away March 6, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Clarence Gordon Watts, Jr., 43, of Cumming, passed away March 5, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

victim was able to wrestle with the suspect, getting his hat, coat and a black plastic pistol. The suspect was not found.

Area Aldi stores suspect Parker in shoplifting from several locations in the metro area.

Serial thief in cereal aisle?

Copper thief takes wiring

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A thief lost more than he bargained for Feb. 23, when he met a resident to buy an iPhone. The victim told police he wanted to sell his iPhone on Craigslist. A potential buyer agreed to meet the victim at the McDonald’s restaurant on State Bridge Road to inspect and purchase it. As soon as the suspect was handed the phone “to inspect it,” he tried to run away. The

MILTON, Ga. – An Atlanta man is suspected of being a habitual thief of area Aldi stores. His most recent target was the Aldi on Ga. 9 in Milton, where, March 6, he was allegedly seen taking three bottles of sauces as well as tomatoes. While he paid for some strawberries in the store, he did not pay for the other items. Using his license plate, the employees identified him as Rodney Lynn Parker, 48, of Atlanta.

MILTON, Ga. – Someone stole $3,500-worth of copper wiring from a construction site March 5. The victim told police he was in charge of the Birmingham Highway location where several homes were being built. When the crews came to work March 5, they found wiring in the basement of one residence hanging out from the ceiling. Wires had been cut and removed from throughout the site.

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 Milton 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 sta-

tistics, 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.

Thief gets phone, loses hat, gun

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETINGS TO CREATE A CONSERVATION SUBDIVISION (CHAPTER 50 OF THE CITY CODE) Public Hearings:

Community Zoning Information Meeting Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

CITY OF MILTON Public Notice

Planning Commission 2ND Meeting Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given a quorum of the City of Milton Mayor and Council may be present on March 23, 2015 beginning at 10:30 AM at the Georgia Power Resource Center located in Technology Square in Midtown Atlanta, 75 Fifth Street, Suite 150, Atlanta, Georgia 30308. The purpose of this meeting is to attend a public information overview “Creating Community Wealth: Engineering Responsible and Sustainable Opportunities”. The meeting is anticipated to last until approximately 2:00 PM.

Mayor and City Council Meeting Monday, June 15, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. Location:

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Planning Commission 1ST Meeting Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

Mayor and City Council Work Session Monday, June 8, 2015 at 6:00 p.m.

Lynda Couch Murphy, 69, of Cumming, passed away March 8, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Charles R. Roden, Sr., 79, of Cumming, passed away March 6, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

knife on him. Police found the two suspects, a 16-year-old boy and a 20-year-old man. They were arrested for robbery.

CITY OF MILTON

Alexander Morgan, 102, of Cumming, passed away March 10, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Thomas Alfred Pilgrim, Jr., 86, of Cumming, passed away March 8, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

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Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107E (Council Chambers) Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2500

For further information please contact Robyn MacDonald, Community Development Department at 678-242-2540.

This public notice is delivered out of an abundance of caution and to ensure that the gathering of Council is conducted in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1. All interested citizens are invited to attend. This the 10th day of March, 2015. _______________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk

COMMUNITY

Milton Herald | March 18, 2015 | 29 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Rep. Tom Price praises free tax prep programs

SHANNON WEAVER/STAFF

Cottonwood manager Mark Klinkhammer presents Nancy Couch with her birthday cake and poster.

Nancy: Continued from Page 1 Couch could live alone but still be near her family. “I never expected such hospitality as I have received here, and I’ve only been here a year,” Couch said. “The people here have just outdone themselves for me.” Couch said the biggest change she’s seen over the century is in children and young adults. “The young people have forgotten how to be ladies and gentlemen,” she

NORTH FULTON, Ga. - Rep. Tom Price (6th District) is urging eligible Georgians to use the IRS and Georgia Free File programs to save money on filing their taxes. PRICE Price highlighted the free tax services provided by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Georgia through the IRS Volunteer Tax Assistance (VITA) program as well as Free File, a public-private partnership between the IRS and tax preparation software companies. Free File, generally available to those who make $60,000 or less, pro-

vides tax preparation at no cost to the filer or the government. “Free File is an easy way for low and moderate-income taxpayers in Georgia to file their taxes,” said Price. “This is an important program for Georgia that doesn’t cost the government a dime and saves taxpayers money. It’s an excellent example of the federal government, the private sector, and community organizations working together.” To access the Georgia Free File program, visit the Georgia Department of Revenue at www.dor.georgia.gov. Information on VITA help can be found at www.svdpatl.org/what-wedo/family-support-center/vita/. —Joe Parker

said. “Their attitudes are just not good anymore.” Couch also discussed her advice for a long life. “Some nurse in the hospital asked me how I did so well. I said, ‘I have a glass of water and a shot of Scotch and a carrot every night,’” Couch said. “She laughed and said, ‘I’m going to start doing that.’” The great-grandmother quit driving after she turned 95, but that doesn’t stop her from living life to the fullest. “I like sports very much. And of course I’m especially fond of the Georgia Bulldogs,” she said. “I still play bridge at 100. And I play bingo. I dance if I can. Anything else I can do, I do it.”

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

32 | March 18, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

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

MIKE STEVENS

770-905-7053 (cell)

Real Estate – The Right Way!

Some Current Listings

• Milton’s Home Sale Specialist • Full Time – Full Service

• Awarded Five Star Professional 2013 and 2014 Atlanta Magazine • Top 10 Agents in North Fulton, Alpharetta, Milton Milton 7 bd, 5 ba Offered at $650,000

• Approved by all Corporate Relocation Companies “Mike’s full service approach made selling our Milton home a very smooth and painless experience.” – The Wilcox Family

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Milton 5 bd, 5 ba Offered at $525,000

Milton 6 bd, 5 ba Offered at $489,900

Milton 5 bd, 4.5 ba Offered at $599,900

To view all Sold and Active Homes visit www.MoveToMilton.com As a local area expert with extensive knowledge of the community, local governments, planned future developments and even local building construction practices, Michael Stevens’ objective is to work diligently to assist you in meeting your real estate goals. Whether you are buying or selling property in today’s complex real estate market, it’s imperative to have complete confidence in your real estate professional. Michael Stevens and his North Atlanta Real Estate Team of agents are committed to provide you with the specialized real estate service you deserve.

MIKE STEVENS 770-905-7053 (cell) mike@northatlantateam.com www.movetomilton.com www.crookedcreekhomesales.com

White Columns – Milton 6 bd, 6.5 ba Perfect Home Finder

Crooked Creek – Milton 6 bd, 5.5 ba

Buying a home? Why not take a few minutes to fill out a form to describe your ‘dream’ home and see if we can’t find a matching property?

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Some Recent Sales

Lake Laurel – Milton 6 bd, 5.5 ba

40+ Page Buyer Guide

No matter what your real estate goals are, we’ve got exclusive tips and extensive industry knowledge you can immensely benefit from.

Crooked Creek – Milton 4 bd, 4.5 5 ba

What’s my Home Worth? Want to know what your home is worth? Let our experts prepare a free home analysis for your Milton area home!

Michael Stevens, Principal, The North Atlanta Real Estate Team, RE/MAX Around Atlanta • 770-905-7053 • mike@NorthAtlantaTeam.com