Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - April 5, 2018

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CA PA N’ GE T T S AX 6 - 7 ZE RO

Johns Creek preserves local say on projects ►►PAGE 4

Cycling for a cause CREDIT: CHRIS MURPHY

Around 400 riders took to the streets of North Fulton recently to raise money to benefit pediatric cancer research.

Story page 28.

Roswell makes plans for Azalea Fesitval ►►PAGE 8

North Point Mall will have new owner ►►PAGE 14

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2 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Roswell 911 Center receives accreditation ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Police Department 911 Emergency Communications Division has been awarded its first Public Safety Communications Accreditation through the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. Members of the division received recognition of the achievement at the March 26 Roswell City Council Meeting.

The accreditation is a highly prized recognition of law enforcement and communications professional excellence.

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.

Woman conned out of $90,000 JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman and her daughter met with police March 19 to report that the woman had been scammed out of $90,000 since February.

The woman had been called on her house phone in late February by someone claiming to be her granddaughter.

The caller claimed that she was in trouble and needed the woman to help her.

The woman said she believed the

CLARIFICATION Visit AppenMediaGroup.com for more information.

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

PUBLIC SAFETY

Published articles about a music and restaurant venue planned for Milton Avenue in downtown Alpharetta failed to mention that the operation will be owned by Mark Ferrara and Ben Lee, who own and operate the Brooklyn Cantina and Pig n Swig in Johns Creek.

They plan to name the Alpharetta venue The Copper Fox.

In order to achieve accreditation, the division was required to demonstrate full compliance with 212 state-ofthe-art performance standards focusing on four areas of responsibility: policy and procedure; management; operations; and support services.

A CALEA-certified public safety practitioner verified compliance with the performance standards through a file review and on-site assessment in October 2017. The public was invited to offer comments in writing or by telephone about the RPD 911 Emergency

Communications Division’s ability to meet the standards.

CALEA accreditation requires a communications center to develop a comprehensive and well thought out uniform set of written directives. It also requires a preparedness program be put in place.

Accreditation is for four years, during which time the RPD 911 Emergency Communications Division must submit annual reports attesting to continued compliance with those standards under which it was accredited.

caller because they said they were in a North Carolina city, where her granddaughter works.

Over the course of the next few weeks, the woman sent the caller $90,000 by purchasing gift cards, sending wire transfers and setting aside cash for someone to pick up.

The caller also convinced the woman to change her home phone number.

The victim provided receipts from all of the wire transfers and purchases to police and said her actual granddaughter would be available to speak.

student.

The office said they would not return the ID to the man because the student is a minor.

After police left the apartment, officers received a call from the man’s neighbor.

The neighbor said that earlier that day he had heard a bang on his door, and when he looked outside, he saw a “young man” walking off. When the neighbor opened the door, he found an empty box by his door. He threw it out.

Thief steals iPad delivered to apartment JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man reported March 20 that an iPad he had ordered online had been delivered to his apartment door but someone had taken it before he could retrieve it.

UPS showed the packaged as delivered that day, but the iPad was not at the man’s door. When he checked the nearby garbage bins, he found an empty shipping box for his iPad with the matching serial number for his order.

The man also found a student ID for a student who attends Johns Creek High School in the garbage. He took the ID to the leasing office to ask about the

Car catches on fire after filling up with gas ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A man’s car caught on fire March 18 after he filled it with gas and parked to go shopping.

The man had filled up the tank at a gas station and also put a quart of oil in because the 2000 Izusu Trooper had a leak.

He then parked the car at the Costco on Jordan Court to go shopping.

When he came out, he noticed a fire under the hood.

The fire was put out with a fire extinguisher, and the Alpharetta Fire Department checked the vehicle.

The fire had damaged the hood,

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4 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

New mixed-use development planned for downtown Roswell

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — A new project blending luxury homes, neighborhood office and commercial space is coming to downtown Roswell. Dubbed the Roswell Court, the development broke ground March 22 at the corner of Norcross and Forrest streets. The location is less than half a mile from the popular Canton Street and within walking distance to the annual festivals, shops and dining in downtown Roswell. Access to Ga. 400 is two miles away.

Roswell Court was created through the partnership of Schmit + Associates and JW Collection, a boutique homebuilder owned by John Wieland.

“This neighborhood setting is unique, walkable and right where you want to be with detailed homes that sacrifice nothing in sophistication or style,” Wieland said.

The three-building community includes seven townhomes, all over 2,400

square feet with two car garages. Five city homes will also be in the community, all over 3,000 square feet and with garages and elevators.

On the commercial side, the community offers five 1,100-square-foot condos.

A two-story retail and office building is in the project. The building is over 2,165 square feet.

“This is the first small lot, true mixed-use development in Roswell,” said Dave Schmit, principal of Schmit + Associates. “Combining high end offices with John Wieland’s impeccable touch to residential, it’s an exceptional opportunity.”

The development complements several other areas in the Historic District that are currently undergoing redevelopment. Two breweries have recently joined a planned distillery and planned hotel. Across the street, the Roswell Library is scheduled for extensive renovations after almost 30 years without any major updates.

CREDIT: SCHMIT + ASSOCIATES/SPECIAL

The nearby Roswell Plaza Shopping Center, likewise purchased by the city, will be undergoing redevelopment as a mixed-use concept, the Southern Skil-

let Redevelopment.

For information on Roswell Court, visit jwcatlanta.com or schmitassociates.com.

Johns Creek removes some TSPLOST projects from comprehensive plan Officials say they want control to remain local

By ADAM DARBY adam@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. - The Johns Creek City Council held a discussion at their March 26 work session concerning the approval of the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan update.

Although many of the projects listed on the NFCTP are in direct correlation to

upcoming TSPLOST projects, the plan itself is only asking for the approval or disapproval of federal funding for these particular items. The council chose to restrict discussion to top priority projects, including capacity improvements for Haynes Bridge, Jones Bridge, Medlock Bridge and Old Alabama roads.

Debate centered on whether or not these road projects should be removed from the list of propositions for federal funding.

Mayor Mike Bodker argued that accepting federal funds will drastically delay completion while adding chal-

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lenges and repercussions in the funding process. He pointed out that there are huge differences in completion rates for road projects of this magnitude between local and federal funding. On average, he said, projects such as these would take from 12 to 18 months compared to federal funding which can take up to 56 months due to a more strenuous approval process.

At the same time, he said, he is sensitive to the issue that federal dollars for transportation are on the decline.

“The fact is that the control of the final details of every project and the use of funds is within the purview of this governing body…what I have learned recently is that there are 99 individual sets of strings that come with accepting federal [road] funds,” Bodker said.

“The main purpose of this document is to send a message all the way up to the federal government that says, ‘These are the priority projects in which this city is seeking federal funds.’…the message you’re sending is that we don’t want your [federal] money.”

The Council was fairly split on the issue. City staff continued to present information favoring approval of the updated plan.

City Manager Warren Hutmacher expressed his thoughts concerning the vitality of these items and their inclusion in the plan.

“By taking the projects out, I think

we’re doing ourselves more harm than good by sort of trying to protect ourselves…I think it’s a benefit to be able to be on that list to receive those funds,” he said. “I’d recommend that you all keep them on there and, as for the purpose of this plan, keeping the descriptions vague I think suits the purpose in helping you all move forward.”

Council members said that while they support the top tier TSPLOST projects, they weren’t certain they should be included in the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

Councilwoman Stephanie Endres, who has often opposed federal funding because it can supersede local authority, said the federal government is offering money while compiling debt.

“The reason they the [federal government] want to get into the local is to have some level of control…to me, if we want to be autonomous and live in a world of local control you stay away from the fed and the state dollars and do what you need to do so that you’re not tied to any of their requirements whichever they may be,” Endres said.

After extensive discussion, council members voted to remove capacity improvements for Haynes Bridge Road, Jones Bridge Road, Old Alabama Road and Medlock Bridge Road from the NFCTP. The document is still in the revision process and requires further review before adoption.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 5

Big South Beer Competition & Festival upcoming in Milton

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com

If you go

MILTON, Ga. — The Big South Beer Competition & Festival will feature many aspects of a typical beer festival with plenty of brews for sampling, live music and food vendors. But organizers say the festival will be anything but typical, and it is all for a good cause.

Big South, which runs from 4- 8 p.m., April 14 at Milton City Hall, will benefit Children’s Charities, a Milton organization that is raising funds for a park in the city for children of all abilities.

Big South aims to raise $10,000 for the park through sponsorships and proceeds from the event.

The festival will bring together 30 of the top local, regional and national brewers, including Abbey of the Holy Goats and Gate City from Roswell, Alpharetta’s Jekyll Brewing, Reformation Brewing from Woodstock and Kennesaw’s Dry County Brewing. Over 50 beers will be available for attendees to sample. Unique and one-time-only brews will also be available in the VIP tent.

Chuck Squires, who also coordi-

What: Big South Beer Competition & Festival When: April 14, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Milton City Hall plaza, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton Cost: $40 for the first 1,000 tickets, $50 after. VIP tickets also available ($75). nated last year’s Milton wine festival with Children’s Charities, wants to make Big South the premier beer festival in the South. To do so, Squires said the festival had to be about more than just sampling beers, so he set out to create unique features that no other beer festival provides.

Big South will feature a competition among brewers to determine winners of various beer styles, as well as an overall Grand Champion that will earn a distinctive wrestling-style belt to tout their accomplishment.

The beers will be blind-critiqued

by Beer Judge Certification Program certified judges, including two Grand Master judges, on April 7. The winner

will be announced at 7 p.m. during the festival.

“These guys are the certified organization within the craft beer industry,” Squires said. “It takes years of scrutiny, test taking and approval to move up the ladder. They judge systematically and scientifically so brewers can be better about what they do, and they do it for the love of beer.”

Squires said once homebrewers open their own breweries, they often do not have their brews critiqued by professional judges.

“Breweries will love that they can

get this feedback from professionals,” he said.

In addition to providing professional critique, Big South will provide attendees with the opportunity to purchase beers they sample during the event.

“A lot of times at beer festivals you sample a beer that you really enjoy but by the end of the event you have forgotten about it,” Squires said. “Through the Big South website, you will have the ability to purchase beers through your phone and that order will go to (Alpharetta’s) Old Crabapple Bottle Shop and you will be able to pick it up a few days later. If you like a beer at, say, table seven, you can go in, see the beers from that table and make your purchase.”

For its first year, Squires said there could be some growing pains, but he hopes to make it an annual event that will provide funding for charity, be beneficial to breweries and a fun experience for attendees.

“The idea has always been of building something that isn’t just another festival,” he said.

For more information about the festival or to purchase tickets, visit www. bigsouthbeercompetition.com.

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6 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com/BlackBox

BLACK BOX SPECIAL REPORT:

Alpharetta seeks answers behind Some parcels received no tax bill for 2017

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By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com

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LISTEN ONLINE An aerial shot of Thompson Street shows 22 separate parcels in 2016 with a combined assessed value of $1.8 million, according to tax records.

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Dozens of parcels in Alpharetta slipped past tax assessments last year, leaving the city, the county and Fulton Schools with no way to collect tens – possibly hundreds – of thousands of dollars owed in taxes.

The properties, both commercial and residential, are primarily associated with recent development in the city. They were removed from the tax rolls when the Fulton County Assessor’s Office changed their status to “deactivated” because their lots were reconfigured.

Documents obtained through the Open Records Act show the city has been pushing the Fulton County Assessor’s Office for weeks to set values on dozens of these properties that were listed as having “zero value” in 2017, even though city officials say there are records of some having been sold for in the millions back in 2016.

“The property is basically in limbo,” Alpharetta City Administrator Bob Regus said. “How does a property that carries a value one year, then get bought up as part of a development lose all its value?”

When the “limbo” period extends through the first of the following year, its value remains at zero throughout that tax year because assessed values are set as of Jan. 1. If, for example, a person buys a home in February with a tax value set at $500,000 but pays considerably more for the property, its tax value remains the same until Jan. 1 of the following year.

“I think what we’re seeing is it takes a little time,” Regus said.

It is difficult to tell how widespread the issue is without cross-referencing all parcels in the county and comparing their value from one year to the next or whether they exist at all. City Finance staff has gone back through the tax rolls to draw up its own list of properties that carried a value in 2016 and were zeroed out the following year.

There is no record of other North Fulton neighboring cities pursuing this matter with the county.

In response to Open Records requests, officials in Milton, Roswell and Johns Creek reported that they have

In 2017, the parcels had been consolidated into four, each listed as having zero value. Alpharetta officials say the properties were part of a $14 million deal back in 2016. The Fulton County Assessor’s Office disputes that value and says it is working to establish tax values on all such parcels. had no email correspondence with the county addressing concerns over zero-valued properties.

The first tip-off The issue popped up in Alpharetta about two months ago when several property owners in Alpharetta’s Avalon development notified the city they hadn’t received a tax bill from last year.

Other inquiries tipped off the city that property owners weren’t being billed.

“We know, as of the 1st of January, 2017, it should be something, proba-

bly the sale price of 2016,” Regus said.

“So, in 2018, we want to kind of make sure that because the property’s been approved, we go back three months, I don’t know what the snapshot would be, but there’s building going on, there’s infrastructure – we send them permits. So, it ought to be a little bit higher, prudent man thinking, than 2017.”

According to city documents, in 2017, 82 new parcels were created in Alpharetta that currently have no – zero – assessed value. Sixty-five of these

Want to hear more of the story? Visit NorthFulton.com/ Podcasts and listen to the “Inside the Box” podcast. parcels were created from parcels that were retired in 2016. Seventeen parcels were created by splitting them from a parent parcel.

It cites one case where, in 2016, 22 parcels south of Thompson Street just west of Westside Parkway were consolidated into four parcels. Those 22 parcels carried an assessed value of $1.8 million in 2016, and were paying the city $10,350 in taxes. When they were consolidated into four parcels, their value was placed at zero, and they currently have no tax bill.

Moreover, the city cites a record of sale of these parcels in 2016 for a total of $14 million, placing their taxable value (40 percent of appraised fair market value) at $5.6 million. That is, they admit, if the sale price listed is accurate as an “arms-length” sale – one that properly reflects market value.

But, if the sale price is accurate, city officials said, the new parcels would have been billed $32,200 in city taxes.

The calculation for missed school district and Fulton County taxes for 2017 would be more, about $55,000 for the county and $103,504.80 in school taxes.

Appraiser says it’s not that simple But Fulton County Chief Appraiser Dwight Robinson says hold on.

He admits appraisals for consolidated properties are running behind, but placing values on these parcels is tricky.

First, he said, you cannot appraise parcels that no longer exist, so the old

NorthFulton.com/BlackBox | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 7

‘zero-value’ property Things like this happen. Even appeals take years sometimes to get done. It may always be the case that it takes this long. I think maybe it’s because last year’s residential issue took so much of their time – and we had a lot of growth, but that’s why it created a red flag this year.”

TOM HARRIS Alpharetta Finance Director PATRICK FOX/HERALD

Fulton County Chief Appraiser Dwight Robinson and Fulton County Commissioner Bob Ellis speaking at an open house last June to address property assessments. parcels are eliminated. The new parcels, once they are assembled, can be valued, but that can be complicated.

In the case of the Thompson Street parcels, he said, the old parcels had been sold and subdivided. The old parcels no longer existed.

In addition, Robinson said, there was no indication of development on the land.

“In 2017, if you look at aerial photographs, that’s vacant land – no development,” he said. “The site was being readied for development on the first day of January 2017.”

Insofar as the sale price listed on the parcels, $14 million, he said his office spent a great deal of time trying to validate that transaction.

In this case, he said, the buyer and the seller – both limited liability corporations – occupy the same office space and their registered agent is the same person.

“These sales appear to be not armslength, open market transactions, and putting $14 million on them would not

be prudent,” Robinson said.

What’s more, the appraiser added, the sale price on these parcels calculates to more than $900,000 an acre, far above anything in the area. ”We searched high and low, I could find no similar sale in the entire Alpharetta area for $900,000 an acre,” he said. “We made a conscious decision that we were not going to chase after the $14 million, only to lose an appeal and take it to the superior court level, then face legal fees.”

Robinson admitted that partly due to last year’s property tax revolt in Fulton County, there are parcels that should have been assessed but were not. They are late, he said, but all the child parcels – those created from the deactivated parent parcels – will be valued and assessments will be issued for prior years.

“That is something I freely admit, but they always get assessed,” he said. “They aren’t slipping through the cracks. We are assessing those parcels for 2017 and 2018.”

City willing to help out Alpharetta Finance Director Tom Harris said his office has offered to provide staff to the county appraiser to help catch up and get the parcels on the tax rolls.

“Things like this happen,” he said.

“Even appeals take years sometimes to get done. It may always be the case that it takes this long. I think maybe it’s because last year’s residential issue took so much of their time – and we had a lot of growth, but that’s why it created a red flag this year.”

Harris said his office has gone back to prior assessments and cross checked parcels to find those whose values have gone to zero. That information has been turned over to the county, he said, and the assessor’s office has, as late as this week, made progress on the information.

Alpharetta Mayor Donald Mitchell said he is hopeful the assessor’s office will catch up and place values on all the parcels whose values were set at zero in past years. The city can then

back bill those properties for taxes, he said.

Still, having that time lag is not good for cities, the county or the school district, he said, because it complicates the budgeting process.

“Now that that data has been compiled, we’ll continue to do our due diligence to see that procedures are in place to make sure the future developments, that we can report that to the county,” Mitchell said.

Fulton County Commissioner Bob Ellis said he has also been looking into the issue. He said the assessment process is fairly independent and governed more by the Board of Assessors, so the County Commission is limited in the pressure it can place on the process.

Nevertheless, Ellis said, he’s trying to encourage the office to address the issue of placing values on the parcels as soon as possible.

“I don’t know if there’s a breakdown,” he said. “I don’t know whether it’s in the assessor’s office. I don’t know whether it’s in the data they’re sourcing…

“Like Alpharetta, I haven’t gotten a clear response.”

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8 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Azalea Festival ready to bloom in Roswell

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Spring has sprung, and with it, the Roswell Azalea Festival.

The annual celebration has once again returned to the city throughout the month of April to enjoy spring, flowers and the Roswell spirit.

“The festival is a great source of local pride,” said Dotty Etris, executive director of the Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Events will run through April 29 and will include theatre, brewery celebrations, free concerts, bicycle rides, cooking classes, several 5Ks, garden tours, a farmers and artisans market, a Vintage Computer Festival and more.

This year, the Azalea Festival Gala, its signature event, is earlier than usual and will act as the kickoff for the celebration. Organizers had to shift the date because the Roswell Founders Hall, where it is held, is changing owners.

Each year at the gala, festival organizers honor a community member or organization for their contributions and service to the community. Previous

honorees are Bob Hagan, Dotty Etris and the Chattahoochee Nature Center.

This year, the gala will honor the Roswell Historical Society.

“Roswell’s history is one of the unique, wonderful things about our community that draws people here,” said Sandy Buhler, the guiding force behind the festival. “It also draws out our own community to hear more. It’s what makes Roswell unique from our surrounding communities.”

The 2018 Azalea Festival Gala will be held 6:30 p.m., Saturday, April 7 at Founders Hall on 1076 Canton Street in Roswell.

Another highly anticipated event is the invitational art exhibition and reception on April 12. Visitors can meet local artists and the sculptures behind the works in this year’s ArtAround Roswell Sculpture Tour. Several artists will be in attendance, including Fred Ajanogha, David Landis, Chris Rothermel and Joan Hilliard.

Additionally, Roswell-based artist Ann Bailey will live paint the event and auction off the original work during the reception.

The Azalea Festival was started four

PHOTO : ROSWELL AZALEA FESTIVAL/SPECIAL

The Briefcase Brigade will open this year’s Azalea Festival Gala on April 7. years ago by a think tank of women who volunteered for the Cottage School to help raise money for scholarships.

Initially, Buhler and the other organizers ran into trouble, but they quickly gained more support after Buhler spoke with local Rotary Club members and with the city.

“They got really excited,” Buhler said. “The whole idea of the Azalea Festival was to, number one, create excitement that would bring visitors to Roswell. It’s to help the businesses and get our own community more involved.

Everything was win-win. And it has been, continually.”

From there, Buhler held a contest to

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create the logo for the festival, with the winning design coming all the way from Bangladesh.

No one person picked out the logo.

An entire committee, including the Roswell Woman’s Club, the Roswell Garden Club, the Chattahoochee Nature Center and the city, helped to decide on the final design.

“It’s an incredibly beautiful logo as a result,” Buhler said. “Everybody loves it when the banners are up on Canton Street. No one has ever said a negative word about.”

To learn more about this year’s Azalea Festival and view its full schedule of events, visit roswellazaleafestival.com.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 9

Forsyth Senior Expo scheduled for April 14

SPECIAL

From left, Eric Casey and Liz Speaks have been recognized for their excellence working at Crabapple Middle School.

Crabapple Middle School announces teacher, professional of the year ROSWELL, Ga. — Two members of Crabapple Middle School’s staff were recently recognized for their outstanding work.

Sixth-grade Earth science teacher Liz Speaks was selected as Teacher of the Year, and sixth-grade administrator Eric Casey was picked as Professional Employee of the Year.

Each year, Fulton County Schools honors principals, teachers, pro-

fessionals and partners at a special event called the “Legacy of Excellence” Awards. The nominees are chosen by their peers and are evaluated by a committee based on achievements, commitment to excellence and dedication.

All the honorees will be recognized at the gala later this year.

For more information about the awards ceremony, visit fultonschools. org.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Senior Services is hosting their 16th annual Forsyth Senior Expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 14 at the Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd.

The Forsyth Senior Expo includes free admission for attendees and is a popular event for seniors, their families, friends and caregivers.

The event hosts vendors from home care, senior living, legal services and more. Attendees also have access to free health screenings, refreshments and multiple opportunities to win door prizes.

For more information about the Forsyth Senior Expo, visit forsythco.

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10 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

Race for Region 7-6A playoff spots heating up

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The highly competitive Region 7-AAAAAA playoff race is shaping up to be decided on the final night of the regular season. Just beyond the midpoint of their region schedules, all nine teams still have a realistic shot of earning one of four playoff berths up for grabs.

Last season, the postseason race came down to the final games, with four teams tied for third in the region standings. Northview, Johns Creek and Cambridge all secured wins in their regular season finales to secure playoff spots. Meanwhile, Alpharetta entered the night second in the standings, but with a loss and the implementation of tiebreakers, the Raiders were eliminated from the postseason.

It is likely that tiebreakers will be needed this year with just a few games separating five teams behind region leaders and defending state champions Pope.

Two teams that earned playoff spots last year look to make another postseason appearance with first-year head coaches. Cambridge, led by former Blessed Trinity assistant Evan Tie-

Region 7-AAAAAA standings (as of March 31) 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Pope (18-4, 10-1) Cambridge (9-10, 6-3) Alpharetta (10-12, 6-4) Dunwoody (9-12, 6-5) Centennial (10-11, 5-6) Northview (8-11, 5-6) Johns Creek (6-12, 3-7) Chattahoochee (9-12, 3-7) North Atlanta (7-12, 3-8)

les, sits second in the standings while Northview is sixth under Tom Kratowicz.

Cambridge started its region slate with five wins in six games but recently dropped two straight to Dunwoody and Pope. The Bears got back on track with an 8-2 win over Centennial on March 28. They were scheduled to face Johns Creek on March 30 but the game was postponed due to field conditions.

Northview also got off to a promising start in region play, winning its opening four games. However, the Titans have

since dropped six of their last seven, including a 9-0 shutout to Johns Creek and 6-2 against Dunwoody on Friday.

The Titans face a challenge down the stretch facing Alpharetta, Pope and Cambridge following spring break before closing out their regular season against Centennial and Chattahoochee.

Matthew McCarthy, another firstyear head coach, has led Centennial to fifth in the standings. The Knights have dropped three of their last four games

and have five region games remaining.

Alpharetta is knocking on the door of the postseason.

The Raiders were 3-3 in region play in mid-March but have since won three straight against Johns Creek, North Atlanta and Dunwoody. On Friday, the Raiders dropped a 4-3 contest to Pope.

The Greyhounds took the lead in the top of the seventh, and though Alpharetta loaded the bases in the bottom half of the frame, a two-out strikeout ended the Raiders’ chances of a comeback.

Johns Creek, currently seventh in the 7-AAAAAA standings, are hoping for another late season charge. In 2017, the Gladiators won four straight region games to earn a playoff spot, and will likely need to do so again with a 3-7 record in region games.

Chattahoochee is also 3-7 and will need to get over the hump of close games to make a run for the playoffs.

The Cougars have dropped eight games by a single run this season, four of those losses coming in region contests.

Hooch faces Cambridge, North Atlanta, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Alpharetta and Northview to close out its region schedule.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 11

Creative Enterprises gives disabled adults a purpose

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.con FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A couple of years ago, Creative Enterprises Director Lisa Bennett was battling cancer.

Growing up, Bennett enjoyed volunteering with people with disabilities and knew her calling in life would end up helping them. For 35 years she worked in the school system before her diagnosis. Then, her life took a turn and she decided to take a leap and open Creative Enterprises, which assists individuals with disabilities in gaining employment after they graduate high school.

“I’ve seen the kids who go home after school and become complacent, have no purpose,” Bennett said. “They get up every day, eat and watch TV. That becomes their routine and they wonder what their purpose is. Some enjoy and like that. But we as a society, as parents and as a community, need to offer them more.”

So after fighting for her life through Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, she came to a realization in 2016 that starting the Forsyth Campus of Creative Enterprises, which has been open for 36 years in Lawrenceville, was her mission.

To learn more or donate, visit creativeenterprises.org/forsyth and leave a note in the donation box specifying the money for the Forsyth Campus. You can also contact Director Lisa Bennett at 678-894-8960 or lisab@ceisite. com.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/HERALD

Kayla Evans, Leland Baker, Melissa Koch and Aaron Stewart work on cutting out photos for their project.

“I felt like my purpose to remain on this earth was to open this because a lot of people I knew would talk about opening Creative, but nobody did,” she said. “I felt like that’s why I’m here.

When God tells you to do something, you don’t really say no. I’m dedicated so making sure this place gets everything it needs.”

Since opening a year and a half

ago, the program has flourished from six clients to 37 now. Last summer a greenhouse was opened on the site and a walking trail is in the works.

The program is open to anyone, not just Forsyth County residents, however parents have to provide their own transportation. Bennett said they’re working to establish ways to provide parents free rides to the location.

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SPORTS

1 | Milton Herald | JanuaryHerald 5, 2017 12 | Alpharetta-Roswell | April 5, 2018

Johns Creek’s boys team captured the Region 7-AAAAAA title over two-time defending state champions Northview.

@JCGLADIATORS/TWITTER

Tennis region champions crowned

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. — Tennis region champions were crowned last week in Class 6A and 7A, with four local teams lifting title trophies. The boys teams of Johns Creek and Milton and the Lambert and Northview girls teams captured their respective region championships.

In the highly-competitive Region 7-AAAAAA, the Johns Creek boys downed two-time defending state champions Northview, 3-0.

Johns Creek senior Cole Gromley and Ethan Howie won in singles, and freshman brothers Britt and Jack Lee won in doubles to capture the region championship and the No. 1 seed for

the state tournament.

In the girls tournament, another defending state champion was denied a region crown.

Northview took down previously undefeated and defending region champs Cambridge to secure the 7-6A title and gain the No. 1 seed in the state tournament.

The Class 6A state tournament begins April 20. All four Region 7-AAAAAA boys and girls teams reached the semifinals in 2017.

In Class 7A, the Lambert girls rallied to defeat Milton, 3-1, for the Region 5-AAAAAAA championship. South Forsyth secured the No. 3 seed over West Forsyth.

The Longhorns and Eagles also faced off for the boys region title, and

Milton ended its long dry spell of region gah, will begin April 16. The top championships. Milton claimed its first four teams from the area will region title in 15 years over Lambert, advance to the state tourthe defending region champs. South nament which begins Forsyth beat West Forsyth to earn the April 26.

No. 3 seed for the state tournament which begins April 20.

Blessed Trinity’s boys and girls team will compete in the Region 7-AAAA tournament beginning April 11 DrMarthaBoone.com at West Hall.

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SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 13

Titans sweep rematch of state championship series BT gets revenge over Marist in region play

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Blessed Trinity earned some payback for its loss to Marist in last year’s state championship, sweeping the War Eagles in a three-game Region 4-AAAA series last week. It was the first meeting of the programs since Marist defeated BT two games to one for the 2017 Class AAAA state championship.

The Titans had strong performances from its pitching staff as well as timely hitting to capture the series, beating Marist 5-1 in extra innings on Tuesday and 5-2 and 9-4 in a Wednesday doubleheader.

The opening contest of the series featured late-game heroics when Mickey Skole smashed a walk-off grand slam in the eighth inning to break a 1-1 tie.

BT pitchers Clark Dearman and Jake Smith allowed just four hits in the game with Marist’s only score coming from a two-hit sixth inning. Dearman allowed three hits and struck out six in 5.1 innings while Smith gave up one hit and struck out three in 2.2 innings.

The War Eagles were also solid on the mound and BT had just five hits through seven innings. Two of those hits came in the second inning when the Titans opened the scoring with an RBI single from Griffin McClure.

Marist pulled its starter after seven innings and the Titans captured the win in dramatic fashion off relievers.

Marist’s reliever walked CJ Abrams to open the inning, and Steele Chambers singled to put the game-winning

run in scoring position. The War Eagles made another pitching change but Smith was hit by a pitch to load the bases with no outs.

McClure, BT’s next batter, popped out, setting the stage for third baseman Mickey Skole.

Facing a 3-1 count, Skole sent a deep drive over the left field wall for the walk-off grand slam.

In the first game of Wednesday’s doubleheader, BT’s pitching again proved pivotal.

Starter Sebastian Szot allowed two earned runs on four hits and struck out seven in 6.2 innings.

Smith drove in the first two runs for BT with a single in the top of the first and a sacrifice fly in the third.

The Titans added three insurance runs in the seventh with three singles and two Marist errors to extend their lead to 5-0.

Marist got on the board in the bottom of the inning with a two-run triple, but Eric Moore relieved Szot to force the final out of the game.

In the final game of the series, senior catcher/outfielder Josh Voss homered twice, including a grand slam, for six RBIs to lead BT. Voss’ home runs served as bookends for the Titans’ scoring. His grand slam in the top of the second was set up by a hit batter and two walks. His second home run, a two-run shot, gave BT a 9-3 lead in the top of the seventh.

CJ Abrams and Mickey Skole each had an RBI. Starting pitcher DJ Radtke earned the win, allowing two runs on four hits with four strikeouts in 4.1 innings.

The Titans travel this week to compete in a tournament over spring break in Tampa, Florida.

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We’ve got to start to think about in the next generation, where retail is challenged, how do you integrate other uses that strengthen the retail and make it more viable?

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14 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018

Firm buys North Point Mall parent

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Brookfield Property Partners announced last week that it has reached an agreement to buy the remaining stake in General Growth Properties, which owns North Point Mall, in a deal that has an estimated total of $15 billion.

GGP is the second largest mall landlord in the country whose retail properties line Fifth Avenue in New York and extend to Las Vegas’s Grand Canal Shoppes and Tysons Galleria in McLean, Virginia.

Brookfield had been courting GGP since last fall when it offered a cashand-stock deal totaling $14.8 billion.

That bid was rejected, and the two sides returned to negotiations.

North Point Mall has been Alpharetta’s retail jewel since it was built 25 years ago. It features more than 150 stores and services, including Champs Sports, AMC Theatres, Dillard’s and JC Penny.

In addition to its retail offerings, the mall sits within minutes of close to 17 million square feet of Class A office space.

The City of Alpharetta has been in the middle of developing a Livable Cities Initiative for the North Point area, and the mall has been at the center of early design plans.

Mayor Donald Mitchell said the mall has been heavily vested in the revitalization discussions, and he hopes to see the process continue.

“We’ll see how the new leadership supports that,” he said.

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Brookfield Property Partners has announced plans to buy the remaining stake in General Growth Properties, which owns North Point Mall, an Alpharetta fixture for the past 25 years.

North Point Mall has faced added competition for high-end market share with the opening of Avalon three years ago. Another retail focal point in the city’s downtown, City Center, is set to go online within the year and will feature about a dozen restaurants, eight ladies’ apparel stores and a men’s clothing store.

City officials and residents have shown no sign of giving up on North Point, despite nearby retail challenges, such as the anticipated loss of Toys R Us or the difficulties of Sears and strip malls.

Community involvement in drawing up plans for the LCI has been brisk, and the city’s consultant on the project has already submitted sketches of how the area might look with redevelopment initiatives.

Eric Bosman, designer and planner with Kimley-Horn consultants, said the North Point area likely cannot compete with the likes of Avalon for high-end retail. He said North Point will have to reinvent itself to include a mix of retail at all levels and take advantage of the wildly popular Big Creek Greenway nearby to expand its greenspace

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“We’ve got to start to think about in the next generation, where retail is challenged, how do you integrate other uses that strengthen the retail and make it more viable?” Bosman said at a recent workshop before the City Council.

City leaders have also suggested the North Point Mall area would be the best bet for some sort of transit hub for express bus service along Ga. 400 if they can secure funding and ensure it wouldn’t create a traffic nightmare for the area.

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BUSINESSPOSTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 15

Don’t forget funny

Using the best sales strategy

I’ve put a lot of very serious thought on this subject, poured over numerous data-sets, and I’ve found out something to be true: a lot of good comes out of funny.

GEOFF SMITH As many of you Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com know, I’m on the board of directors at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, a fact that I understand isn’t all that funny. But recently we’ve been fortunate to have North Fulton’s own Jamie Bendall, an owner of the Punchline Comedy Club, emcee at a couple of our recent events. We’ve always worked in a little humor at the chamber over the years, but not like what a pro like Bendall does. Folks are still talking about his 10-minute roast of outgoing president, and state Senator, Brandon Beach.

Our table had been very cordial up until he took over the mic. After laughing for 10 minutes, we were all downright excited to be friendly.

Laughter drops our guards and opens us up.

In business, laughter is a useful tool. When I’m taking an agent out to lunch, I notice the other folks with their clients and prospects. You know things are going well when they are laughing. It’s probably safe to say that sales people who are funny have an advantage over those who are not.

For some people, being funny comes natural. For others, it is a learned art. And for a few, it’s both.

My friend Carlos Giron was both.

Since anyone cared to remember, he was making people laugh. He was probably the guy in first grade who made up the nicknames for the teachers that made everyone laugh.

For him, it was personal. He enjoyed talking to you, making you laugh and making you happy. He always used to say, “I know more useless information than anyone else on topics that will in no way, shape or form make me any money.”

Then one day, he proved that theory wrong.

“Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” had a week-long group of episodes where they asked questions that pertained only to movies. This was Carlos’ wheelhouse. He applied, went through the process and made it on the show. Our Carlos, who we all knew to be the funniest guy around, was taking his act to a nationwide audience. Folks, the story does not disappoint.

What sales strategies are you using to win new business?

Are your strategies successful in beating your competition?

Is your sales team equipped with a portfolio of strategies they can use? Using the DICK JONES right sales strategy Founder & President Jones Simply Sales can help improve your win rates and allow you to close more business.

In order to select the best sales strategy, you have to assess the specific opportunity you are trying to win. This assessment will guide you to utilizing the best strategy for each specific opportunity you are pursuing. Your assessment needs to take into account the relationships you have, the competition, the uniqueness of your product or service and the price you will charge.

When getting ready for the show, the producers coached him on what to do to keep things moving.

“Whatever Meredith (Vieira) says, go with it. Keep things rolling,” they told him.

He didn’t care, he’d do anything.

He was focused on winning $1 million.

So when Meredith asked him about coming over from Mexico into this country when he was younger, even though he was born here after his parents came here from Guatemala, he went with it. And went with it. And went with it. He told Meredith how after coming over from Mexico, he learned English by watching movies which is how come he knows so much about movies.

You could tell by watching that Vieira and he had a great rapport.

In fact, she kept in touch with him after the show sometimes texting to see how he was doing. You can see on clips from the show that she really liked him - in the same way that we all liked him here at home. It was great.

But it didn’t stop there. During the break the producers told him they wanted to expand on his unique way of learning English. So he did.

“Yes Meredith, when I was younger, Star Wars was my favorite movie. And Yoda was my favorite character. So I thought all smart Americans talked like Yoda. So when the teacher would ask ‘Carlos, are you present?,’” he said. “I would say ‘present, I am.’”

He said that. On national television.Carolos went on to win $250,000.

He came home and had articles written on him and his ‘unique’ childhood.

He bought the auto body shop his father worked at. He bought a house.

And he paid for acting lessons and became one of the main players at the Whole World Theater.

Up until his untimely death two weeks ago, Carlos had taken what we all knew to be true and taken it to the stage. He was my funny thermometer.

If my joke could make him laugh, I knew it was ready for the Chamber of Commerce.

He’ll always remind me to never be too good for funny. It just might make you a couple bucks – or make someone happy.

Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial focusing on residential home loans for refinances and home purchases.

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

A direct approach is best when you have strong relationships, limited competition, and a unique product or service. If a potential customer needs what you have, has a strong relationship with you and not with your competitors, you’re pretty much in the driver’s seat to win their business.

Conversely, if your relationship with the customer is no better than your competitors, and you are both offering something similar, you need to change the buying criteria to reflect other factors of the decision-making process.

Out-flanking your competitor will help you to win in these scenarios.

And finally, if you just want a “foot in the door” to establish your potential as a long-term product or service provider, going after just a “piece of the business” may be the best choice. Selecting the best sales strategy for each opportunity will increase the odds that you will win.

NEWBUSINESSSPOTLIGHT

Milton welcomes NexSeason Transitions MILTON, Ga. — NexSeason Transitions held their ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, March 27th at the Phoenix at Milton. Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood along with co-founders Sherri Selman and Lisa Wilson cut the ribbon with friends and family.

NexSeason Transitions helps seniors and their families through all aspects of senior transition periods at a concierge-level. NexSeason offers turn-

key solutions to home transitions providing all the best resources together in one place with their exclusive network of partners with an a-la-carte approach, picking only the services needed. NexSeason can manage the whole transition process through their Concierge Level Service Coordination and can guide interested parties through the transition process step-by-step with a personal Transition Advocate.

16 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell 20 Johns Creek HeraldHerald | NorthFulton.com | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT IN ALPHARETTA

ROSWELL AZALEA FESTIVAL

Enjoy numerous activities throughout April 30. Events will take place all across Roswell as organizers pay tribute to the beauty of Roswell during the springtime and to the abundant azaleas, a native Georgian flower.

Activities include plant sales, art exhibits, bicycle races, ghost tours, comedy night and more. For more information and a full calendar of events, visit roswellazaleafestival.com.

Looking to get the word out about your event?

Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton. com/Calendar.

EVENTS: SPRING NATIVE PLANT SALE

SERENE SPACES DISCUSSION: WALL POWER

What: Shop through over 120 species of native plants, including herbs and veggies. Horticulturists will be on site.

When: March 30-31 and April 6-7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell More info: chattnaturecenter.org/trailshorticulture/

What: Diane Berntson a certified interior decorator and Feng Shui consultant, will lead a discussion to help inspire ideas for decoration in our homes.

When: Monday, April 9, 7:15-8:15 p.m.

Where: Grey Owl Mind-Body Studio, 6250 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: greyowlmb.com

FREE FITNESS IN THE PARK: ZUMBA

YOUNG ADULT BOCCE BALL

What: Join for free group exercise classes with Fitness in the Park. All classes are weather-permitting and open to the public.

When: Saturday, April 7, 9-10 a.m.

Where: Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

VEGETABLE GARDENING WORKSHOP What: Learn smart, low-cost, environmentally sound practices for growing nutrient-dense vegetables.

When: Saturday, April 7, 9-10:30 a.m.

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

RUMC MINI JOB FAIR

What: Anyone with a developmental disability looking to play bocce ball and socialize with peers is invited.

When: Tuesday, April 10, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

BETTER TOGETHER

What: Leslie Graham, Owner of 3:8 Juice & Eatery, will be the speaker. She will explain all about the healthy and nutritious offerings available at this locally owned juice bar.

When: Tuesday, April 10, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton More info: cityofmiltonga.us

What: Employers from throughout greater Atlanta will meet in person with possible candidates for their job openings. The mini job fair will be held in the evening with workshops throughout the day.

When: Monday, April 9, 12:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell More info: rumcjobnetworking.com

ROSWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S THEATER NIGHT

TAKE A PEEK TUESDAYS

What: Bring a yoga mat or towel and wear loose comfortable clothes. Open to mothers and preschool patrons. No registration required.

When: Wednesday, April 11, 11:30 a.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: afpls.org or 770-360-8897

What: Take a quick peek at our building collections and hear about our preservation and research efforts.

When: Tuesday, April 10, noon Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek More info: autreymill.org

What: Annual theater night fundraiser.

When: Tuesday, April 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info and tickets: roswellhistoricalsociety.org

MOMMY AND ME YOGA

What: Learn about the latest public projects, like the Alpha Loop, and what private developers are building around town. The Director of Community Development will be available to answer questions.

When: Wednesday, April 11, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

COOKING AND CRAFTS

What: This creative program is a fun way to experience history through simple recipes and heritage crafts enjoyed in the past. This class focuses on rock candy. Ages 6-11.

When: Thursday, April 12, 4:30 p.m.

Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek Cost: $7 for members, $10 for nonmembers More info: autreymill.org

GARDEN TOUR MONDAYS

What: Enjoy a free 30-minute tour of the gardens and historic plants on the grounds of Barrington Hall.

When: Every Monday, through Sept.

24, 9:30 a.m.

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

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: ATLANTA FLUTE ENSEMBLE CONCERT

What: Enjoy a free concert by the Atlanta Flute Ensemble.

When: Wednesday, April 11, 11 a.m.noon Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

“BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY”

What: “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” tells the true story of Buddy’s meteoric rise to fame, from the moment in 1957 when “That’ll Be The Day” hit the airwaves until his tragic death less than two years later on the “The Day The Music died.”

When: Shows April 12-29 Where: Georgia Ensemble Theatre, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info and tickets: get.org

SPOTLIGHT ART: ROSWELL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

What: The society, with over 400 members, will participate in the annual Heritage Days, celebrating everyday life experiences in Roswell.

When: April 2-May 31, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellphotosociety.orgp

LIBRARY EVENTS: THE ZOO LIBRARY

What: The Zoo Library provides handson experience with Paul Suarez and his exotic animals. Ages 5 and up.

Registration required.

When: Friday, April 6, 10-11 a.m.

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

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER’S WORKSHOP

What: Local licensed real estate consultants will introduce the steps involved in purchasing your home. Refreshments will be served.

Registration required.

When: Saturday, April 7, 3:30-5 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell More info: afpls.org

FILM SHOWING: “SELMA”

What: Join for a showing of “Selma” in remembrance of the day of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s funeral.

When: Monday, April 9, 10 a.m.-12:15 p.m. and 5:30-7:45 p.m.

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

DESTRESS WITH THERAPY DOGS

What: Come and meet some friendly therapy dogs to destress. For teenagers only.

When: Monday, April 9, 4-5 p.m.

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

SPANISH STORY TIME

What: Join for monthly Spanish storytime, which will include music and cultural activities led by the instructors of Lingual Kids.

When: Tuesday, April 10, 10:30-11 a.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

BIRDING SCAVENGER HUNT

What: Children will learn how to use binoculars and how to identify and find Atlanta’s most common birds. ages 5-11. Email to RSVP. When: Wednesday, April 11, 4-5 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: afpls.org or liane.wagner@fultoncountyga.gov

DROP EVERYTHING AND READ DAY

What: Join the library all day long to read. The program is free, and the library will provide the books.

When: Tuesday, April 12, 10:30 a.m.5:30 p.m.

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

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 17

18 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

18 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018

Sponsored Section

Not all home updates are equal

By Eve Jones Harry Norman Realtors Real estate agents always say, “kitchen and baths” sell homes, hence the minor bath and kitchen remodels topping out this list.

For a minor bath remodel, we’re talking about maybe a $8K-$10K investment which would include new quartz or granite counters, freshly painted cabinets and walls, tiled shower and tiled floors.

Also, a new seamless glass shower surround adds the illusion of more space.

In terms of a minor kitchen remodel, you could spend $15K upgrading the counters to granite or quartz (honed and leathered texture for the granite is a current favorite), plus new midgrade stainless appliances, freshly

painted or resurfaced cabinets, subway back splash and lighting.

All of those upgrades would make buyers very, very happy.

The landscaping is kind of a no-brainer.

It is your investment JONES in the buyers’ first impression of your home. Spend $2-4K updating old foundation plants (and overgrown shrubbery) or fill in missing/ died sod.

Adding some seasonal color and fresh mulch is critical to boost the all-important curb appeal.

Exterior improvements are the obvious fresh paint but repairing any wood rot and using a more current tone on tone color palate is highly recom-

mended, as the stark 1990s white trim dates a home.

If you have defective LP siding, replacing it will help ease buyers worries about that looming expense.

Adding square footage, especially a bedroom, is always a good investment and is appreciated by buyers and appraisers. Major kitchen and bathroom remodels are good investments, but more so for a longer-term investment.

If you are going to spend $50-60K on a kitchen or $25K+ on a bathroom update, you may want to take time to enjoy your new space and give the market time to appreciate.

That strategy could earn you a 100% return! Coming in a #8 is a deck/ porch/patio addition at 83%. I suspect it could be higher down here in the south given our moderate weather.

The costs can range greatly from

$12K for a new medium sized deck to $100K for a covered porch with built-in fireplace.

Using high-end materials like Ipe wood/Tigerwood decking or the latest durable composite materials seems to pay off as well.

The #10 spot, according to HGTV, goes to window replacement offering an 89% return. My experience would estimate that number to be a little lower.

I have never seen buyers jump up and down about new windows, but they do have a strong aversion to old single paned windows.

So, it’s debatable.

One thing I do know, consulting with an experienced real estate agent well ahead of starting home renovation projects is a good idea and it’s true what they say, “you have to spend money to make money”.

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 19

New Homes from the mid $600’s

Luxury living at Wescott Located in the highly sought-after Lambert High School District, Wescott is the latest luxury home community offered by award-winning builder, Patrick Malloy Luxury Communities.

This luxurious enclave includes 61 homesites and top-notch amenities.

Once finished, this exclusive lifestyle will include a gated entry, tennis courts, playground, swimming pool with water feature, gazebo, spa and many more activities throughout the green spaces inside the community.

The community clubhouse will serve as a gathering place for friends and neighbors to enjoy summer evenings while listening to children playing outdoors.

Located in affluent South Forsyth, Wescott’s location is idyllic for any family looking to live in award-winning Lambert High School. Rated one of the top high schools in the United States, it is located within walking distance and affords students a top-notch education along with Sharon Elementary and Riverwatch Middle Schools.

Nearby is a bevy of high-end shop-

ping and dining options. Centrally located to Avalon, The Collection at Forsyth and North Point Mall, Wescott homeowners can enjoy the finer things in life inside and outside their community.

While being away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Atlanta, it is still conveniently located to commuter routes and major businesses across North Atlanta.

For the avid golfer, some of Atlanta’s best courses are within a 20 mile radius.

If golfing is not your weekend activity of choice, there are parks weaving in and around the neighborhood next to the Chattahoochee River that are great for some fresh air activities.

Wescott offers 4 floorplans starting at 4,100 square feet on homesites from one third to one half acres with slab and basement options. These homes can be built with up to 6 bedrooms for large families. The model home is located at 690 Nichols Road, Suwanee and is a must-see.

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Across the Street from Lambert High School Community Clubhouse | Swimming Pool Tennis Courts | Fire Pit Lounge

770.254.5358

PMCommunities.com Decorated Model Open: Mon-Sat 11-5, Sunday 1-5 690 Nichols Road • Suwanee, GA 30024 Take GA 400 north to exit 13 (Hwy. 141) and turn right. Go approximately 3.5 miles and turn left onto Sharon Springs Road which will turn into Old Atlanta Road. Cross over Windermere Parkway/Mathis Airport Road. Turn left on Nichols (just before Lambert High School). Community is on the left.

20 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Tips to bring spring into your home

By BILL RAWLINGS Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office. Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Spring time is officially here, and it is the perfect time to update the rooms throughout your home to reflect this wonderful time of the year. Before you begin redecorating, now is the time for your annual “spring cleaning.” Grab your thick winter blankets and dark colors and store them away. The best way to embrace the season is with new color schemes and prints that give your home a fresh makeover.

One of the best characteristics of

spring is the warmer weather, which invites our flowers to bloom.

Nothing says spring like a fresh vase of tulips! Flowers also provide an instant facelift to any room in your home. Another festive tip is wallpaper. Install RAWLINGS wallpaper throughout various rooms of your home to brighten the space while also adding texture and interest. Removable wallpaper is an easy alternative, as it can be updated with the seasons. Don’t forget how easy it is to maintain! Statement ceilings

is one of the biggest paint trends this year. They can take any traditional space and elevate it to the next level.

Start by selecting the room’s accent color and run with it. Once complete, the contrast between the ceiling and room’s accessories is eye-catching and inspiring!

Another tip: try to lighten your entry way. Entry ways are typically smaller and easier to accentuate throughout the year. Versatile lamp shades, bright accessories and artwork are the best ways to embrace the space and welcome spring with your guests.

At Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, we are dedicated

to providing you with an exceptional experience throughout the buying and selling process. Our agents are experts in the field and their familiarity with all the neighborhoods in the area can help guide you in making the right decision.

For more tips and additional information, or to discuss the Atlanta real estate market, connect with us! Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results. Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

Article adapted from Elle Décor https:// www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/ g9230907/spring-home-makeover/?slide=4

Baby Boomers: Could an Active Adult Community be RIGHT for you?

By Ann Jensen Ann.Jensen@HarryNorman.com More and more Active Adult Communities are developing around Atlanta. Could this be the right “next step” for you? At Brookhaven at Johns Creek (BJC), the floor plans, square footage, and upgraded finishes are

perfect for “right sizing.” These homes feature master suites on the main level, step-less entry from the garage, hardwood flooring, beautiful cabinetry, wider doorways, and vanities and commodes at adult height.

The newest materials in windows, doors and insulation keep energy costs low.

Brookhaven at Johns Creek 55+ Active Adult Community | Villa Home for Sale

OPEN HOUSE at 310 Brookhaven Walk Sunday, April 8th from 2-4 pm Owner Financing Available

RESORT-LIKE AMENITIES Clubhouse | Exercise Facility | Gorgeous Pool | Walking Trail Community Vegetable Garden | Gated/Secure

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES Monthly Dinners | Book Clubs | Classes | Card Group Game Groups | Seasonal Activities & More

LOCATION Excellent Medical Facilities Nearby| Ten Golf Courses within Five Miles Entertainment | Shopping | Restaurants Directions: NORTH on HWY 141/Medlock Bridge Rd; RIGHT on Johns Creek Parkway; RIGHT on Technology Circle; RIGHT into Brookhaven at Johns Creek subdivision.

ANN JENSEN C: 404-933-2876 O: 770-622-3081 Ann.Jensen@HarryNorman.com

The above information is believed accurate, but is not warranted. This offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale and withdrawals without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Community is an important ingredient at this stage of life, too. Most residents are retired (or almost retired) professionals: doctors, lawyers, corporate business, entrepreneurs, professors, teachers, etc.

JENSEN Neighbors are HOME during the day, so it is easy to find a companion for lunch, the movies, or a day trip. A variety of planned activities appeal to many interests and talents.

Some highlights in BJC include the monthly community dinner (hosted at the gorgeous clubhouse), book clubs, bridge, poker, watercolor, Bible study, and MUCH MORE. Were YOU hoping to spend your

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retirement travelling and having FUN? BJC is gated and completely fenced around the perimeter, the ultimate in “lock and go” living. The HOA maintains all yards (front and back). Pruning, pine straw, mowing, and edging are no longer YOUR responsibility!

The amenities at BJC are unparalleled and include a gorgeous pool, exercise facility, two lighted tennis courts (also lined for pickle ball), a nature trail, and a community garden Close proximity to medical care (Emory/Johns Creek Hospital), shopping, movies, restaurants and the MANY nearby golf/country clubs round out the GOOD LIFE. Come and see 310 Brookhaven Walk at our OPEN HOUSE on SUNDAY, April 4 from 2-4 pm. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of the community, amenities and floor plans.

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22 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists The truth about downsizing Why it works for some and not others

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Kitchen & Bathroom Professional Remodeling Services

678.459.2292 48 King St • Roswell, GA 30075 RemodelingExpo.com

Monday-Friday 8-5pm Saturday 10-4pm

Hooray! You made your last tuition payment or maybe paid for the last wedding. And now it’s you and your spouse in a great big house. So it’s time to set in motion your grand plan, which goes something like this… 1. Sell the big house and move to a smaller house that’s easier to maintain, 2. Pocket the $100k or more from this transaction, 3. Take an extended European vacation this summer with some of the proceeds from the sale of the house.

The Unwelcomed Cold Shower.

As it turns out the grand plan may not happen just like you planned. You learn this when you call your favorite realtor and spend a day with them. It’s at this time that you realize that a new, smaller house costs more than you ever could have imaged. It’s at this moment that you truly feel the impact of new home prices rising faster than older home prices.

The Punch to The Gut. Just as your realtor has done their best to explain the prices of smaller homes, it’s time to assess the listing price of your present home. Because you sent your kids to private schools, the very best colleges, bought cars for them and paid for weddings…..well, you never quite kept up with the whole remodeling thing. Your house was built in the 80’s or 90’s and it looks like the day it was built.

Formica or Corian in the kitchen, a garbage compactor and desk in the kitchen. In the bathroom: gold framed

See DOWNSIZING, Page 23

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 23

Crye-Leike® Realtors continues to grow in the Atlanta area!

Actively seeking new agents and brokers to join their team Crye-Leike is a full service real estate company founded in Memphis, TN in1977 offering one-stop shopping services in real estate including: residential, relocation, commercial, business brokerage, property management, REO management, mortgage lending, insurance, title & closing, home vendor referrals, auctions, rentals, franchise sales, and home builder services. As one of the nation’s largest, full service real estate companies, Crye-Leike has a network of more than 3,100 sales associates and over 125 offices located throughout a nine-state region. For forty years, Crye-Leike has delivered a passionate commitment to unsurpassed service in its communities.

Crye-Leike’s commitment inspires our agents to exceed expectations by constantly improving their relationships with clients and responding quickly to

Downsizing: Continued from Page 22 small shower, cultured marble counters and huge mirrors glued to the walls.

Every home in North Atlanta has the same finishes and they’re all “out of style” which makes your home NOT “Move in Ready” to the prospective buyer. So your realtor suggests a listing price far below your expectations. Don’t shoot your realtor they’re pretty familiar with this situation.

Is it all Bad News? “No, for those homeowners who have remodeled their Kitchens and Bathrooms, they are getting top dollar when selling their homes” says John Hogan, owner of Roswell’s Remodeling Expo Center, “families are fleeing the City of Atlanta and paying top dollar for move-in ready homes in North Atlanta. It’s all about the schools. Remodeling Expo Center has been assisting homeowners for 16 years with exactly this issue.

The Rule of 1.5. When a prospective buyer assesses the value of your home they will apply the Rule of 1.5 to any room that requires remodeling, that is if they don’t just pass on your home.

their customer needs while conducting business with integrity and trust.

Today Crye-Leike is the 5th largest real estate company in the nation and boasts a record year in 2016 with sales exceeding $6.3 billion.

Crye-Leike Realtors continues to grow in the Atlanta market and is actively seeking new agents and brokers to join their team! Crye-Leike’s 10 branch offices include: Cumming, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Norcross, Gainesville, Woodstock, Cartersville, Smyrna, Douglasville, and McDonough.

Crye-Leike has accelerated expansion plans that aim to further its footprint in the greater Atlanta market with offices in Dawsonville, Marietta, Lawrenceville, Newnan and Kennesaw.

Crye-Leike offers new competitive commission splits, cutting edge technology and marketing tools, in house and online training, referral opportunities and the tools you need to take your business to the next level. We sell more homes in the South than any other company. Please call one of our local offices today for an interview.

For example, if they believe a new kitchen will be $40k, they will discount your home by $40k times 1.5 or $60K. Same goes with the master bathroom.

So you can see how brutal the Rule of 1.5 can be for the homeowner. This really hits home when offers come in very low or the realtor suggests successive listing price drops.

So what’s the answer? First and foremost, don’t postpone remodeling to when you’re about to sell, because you won’t get to live and enjoy it. Secondly, remodel the rooms that will show the strongest return on your investment and thirdly, do it in a style that most people would enjoy.

Remodeling Expo Center has been partnering with homeowners and realtors for decades to make “the home” not only functional, but a performing investment vehicle. “That house sold in 24 hours and for over the asking price”.

This isn’t neighborhood folklore; it really happens. Homeowners who have the attitude of “I’ll let the next owner remodel” are doing themselves a great disservice.

To learn more contact The Remodeling Expo Center at 404 910-3969 or stop in at 48 King Street, Roswell, GA 30075. RemodelingExp.o.com

February Sales Leaders

Grace Yoon Norcross 404-514-1000

Cindy Zhao Johns Creek 770-380-5708

Judy Chin Norcross 770-864-4362

Randy Crowe Amber Jones McDonough 678-776-1890

Dr. Garmon West McDonough 678-584-3211

Ellen Yi Norcross 404-281-9226

Crissy Irvin McDonough 404-988-0460

Alpharetta - Crabapple/Roswell/Milton 282 Rucker Road, Suite 110 • Alpharetta, GA 30004 | Office: (678) 240-2201 Atlanta NE - Norcross 4870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. • Norcross, GA 30071 | Office: (770) 255-3380 Cartersville 477 East Main Street • Cartersville, GA 30121 | Office: (770) 607-2801 Cumming 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1200 Dawsonville 391 Quill Lane, Suite 150 • Dawsonville, GA 30534 | Office: (706) 265-3273 Douglasville 2092 Fairburn Road • Douglasville, GA 30135 | Office: (770) 947-2400 Gainesville 956 B Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 301 • Gainesville, GA 30501 | Office: (770) 535-8301 Johns Creek/Alpharetta/Duluth 9945 Jones Bridge Rd, Suite 201 • Johns Creek, GA 30022 | Office: (678) 867-2345 McDonough/Southern Crescent 2124 Jodeco Road • McDonough, GA 30253 | Office: (678) 583-9995 Smyrna 1322 Concord Rd SE • Smyrna, GA 30080 | Office: (770) 805-9652 Woodstock - Cobb Cherokee 13190 Highway 92, Suite 100-110 • Woodstock, GA 30188 | Office: (770) 517-2272 Commercial Division 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1233

View ALL area homes at CRYE-LEIKE.com

24 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Alpharetta. $1,048,500 425 Prestwick Court 5BR/5.5BA FMLS: 5968507 Tracy Sardelli 678.978.5870

Alpharetta. $1,399,000 2930 Manor Bridge Drive 5BR/5BA/2HBA FMLS: 5972543 Wes Vawter 404.683.0910

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

Alpharetta. $927,000 12867 Gransley Court 6BR/6.5BA FMLS: 5979796 Gina Campbell 770.866.1063

Alpharetta. $999,000 2022 Westbourne Way 5BR/5BA/2HBA FMLS: 5973602 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895 Ken Gary 404.693.1066

Big Canoe. $305,000 40 Laurel Ridge Trail 3BR/3.5BA FMLS: 5939008 Kelly Thrash 678.232.5500

Big Canoe. $539,000 116 Grouse Gap Drive 3BR/3.5BA FMLS: 5954808 Diana Montague 404.630.3002 Phil Montague 770.670.1032

Crabapple. $449,500 12589 Crabapple Road 3BR/3BA FMLS: 5956573 Kimberly Counter 678.938.5885

Johns Creek. $739,000 630 Falls Bay Court 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 5969379 Diana Montague 404.630.3002 Phil Montague 770.670.1032

Roswell. $324,900 60 Mill Pond Road 3BR/2.5BA FMLS: 5974750 Kathy Rice 678.697.4984

Roswell. $450,000 214 Vickery Falls Drive 2BR/2BA FMLS: 5953330 Tricia Leuallen 678.699.3955

Roswell. $525,000 160 Lazy Laurel Chase 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 5954088 Maryanne Winchester 678.520.9922

Roswell. $650,000 11820 Hardscrabble Trail 4BR/3.5BA FMLS: 5976807 Andrea Cueny 404.695.7040 Bonnie Smith 404.713.7713

Suwanee. $1,899,500 889 Crescent River Pass 6BR/6BA/2HBA FMLS: 5979035 Kathy Rice 678.697.4984 Anne Stone 404.307.6416

Woodstock. $494,500 309 Little Pine Lane 3BR/3BA FMLS: 5860178 Geri Beckmann 404.290.2330 Theresa Strait 404.483.1894

Naples, Florida $3,995,000 515 Riviera Drive Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | 770.442.7300 ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Artwork by Isabelle Gautier, used with permission.

With the right equipment, you can make the grass greener on your side of the fence.

Shopping for yard equipment: Things to know (NAPSI)—If you’re like most people, when spring comes, you’re ready to get outside and make your yard both beautiful and functional. Maybe you’re aiming to have the best yard on the block, want to install an outdoor family room, or want to expand your space for entertaining. Perhaps your kids or pets could use a better space for play.

Regardless of need, now is the time to get “backyard ready.”

The Tools You’ll Need “Completing big outdoor jobs is always easier with help from outdoor power equipment,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).

“The right outdoor power equipment can help you get the work done faster and can help you safely maintain your yard.” These tips from Kiser can help you select the machinery you need to get the job done.

• Plan your needs. Draw a sketch of your yard. Include any major features such as trees, bushes, an herb or vegetable garden, flower beds, lawn furniture, play or sports equipment, an outdoor patio, or birdbath. Note where maintenance may be required. Will bushes need to be trimmed back from your home or garage?

Do you want to put in some flowering bushes or a tree? Are you planning to install a fence and more grass because of your pet? Now list the tools and equipment needed to take care of your yard and what will make the job easier.

• Consider equipment needed. Visit your garage or shed and find all your lawn and garden tools. Wheel out your mower and get out other equipment.

Look it over and make a list of what’s needed or could be upgraded. Repair anything that needs attention or iden-

tify where a newer or other machine is required. If you have a large vegetable garden, you need a cultivator or tiller. If you have a large lawn, an upgrade to a riding lawn mower might make mowing easier. A string trimmer might make caring for bushes or trimming grass near a fence line easier. A pole pruner can help trim back limbs that are too high to reach safely with a saw and a leaf blower can clear leaves faster than a rake.

• Research equipment online before you buy. Think about efficiencies of scale. The right equipment can mean more time for other activities and make doing yard work more enjoyable, too.

Doing online research in advance can help you pick the right equipment for the job. Outdoor power equipment can be gas, electric or battery powered and technology is rapidly affecting product design. There are even robotic lawn mowers available today. Equipment may be sized to handle a smaller job or a massive one. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your needs.

• Ask questions. Talk with the staff at the store or ask online about the equipment. In the store, ask to pick up and hold equipment to determine its “fit” for you. Discuss safety features and ask about fueling and care instructions. Find out how often equipment may need to be serviced.

• Make a plan for storage and maintenance. Store your equipment in a cool and dry place. It should typically be serviced at the end of the fall and the beginning of the spring. Put service dates on your calendar with a reminder.

Learn More For safety information and to find out which manufacturers make various outdoor power equipment products, go to www.opei.org.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 25

The Best Kept Secret in Alpharetta Since 1987 SERVICES:

Tires • Brakes • Alignments Wheel Bearings • CV Axles

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Chattahoochee chess team competes at state JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Chattahoochee High School chess team took second place in the state March 17 at the 2018 Georgia Team Chess Championship.

Meet with local authors at ‘A Novel Idea’ ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Writing and book fans can meet with local authors, listen to them read short excerpts, dine with friends or enjoy coffee and dessert at the Novel Idea’s April 8 meeting in Alpharetta. Participants may even win a signed copy of one of their books.

The theme this month is Southern Writers. Participating authors include Haywood Smith, “The Red Hat Club”; MaryAnn Hopper, “Don’t Let the Flies In”; Julia Franks, “Over the Plain Houses”; Janet Hogan Chapman, “Madam May: A Tale of Madams, Moonshine, Morphine, and Murder”; and Deborah Mantella, “My Sweet Vidalia.”

Join the authors from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Alpha Soda, 11760 Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta.

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The team, composed of Vignesh Sekar, Suraj Peramanu, Rahul Komatineni, Vikram Ruppa-Kasani, Brandon Wei, Nithilan Vincent, and Josh Jeong, won four out of their five matches

against rival schools. Komatineni, who won 4.5 out of his 5 games, was awarded the “Top Player” award for winning the highest amount of games in the tournament for his board.

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26 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Northern Ridge District welcomes new Eagle Scouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, recently announced its newest Eagle Scouts. These are Scouts who passed their Eagle Board of Reviews, held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Board of Review on March 29: Roman Cheek, of Troop 87, was sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. His project was designing and constructing five art tables and one spray paint booth for Centennial High School.

Shae Furlong, of Troop 87, was sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. For his project, Furlong created a video showcasing local surviving World War II veterans and their viewpoint of the War. This video was made available to Roswell High School and the American Legion.

Ian McConnell, of Troop 3000 and sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church, designed and constructed three wooden benches for Alpharetta Presbyterian Church outdoor chapel.

Abdelrahman el-Olemy, of Troop 12, sponsored by Muslim American Society Youth Center, whose project was the design and construction of rolling Art Classroom shelving units for ILM Academy.

Jack Wade, of Troop 69 was spon-

From left to right stand new Eagle Scouts: Roman Cheek, Shae Furlong, Ian McConnell, Abdelrahman el-Olemy, Jack Wade, Njoumie Price-Richardson and Duncan Moehring.

SPECIAL

sored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church. His project was restoring two picnic tables and beautifying the area at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Njoumie Price-Richardson, of Troop 1717, sponsored by Cross of Life

Lutheran Church, who designed and constructed improvements to the Drake House (a shelter for single mothers and their children). Price-Richardson replaced the roof of the mailbox pavilion, repainted a sign post, and cleared out overgrowth from behind the apartment

complex.

Duncan Moehring, of Troop 2143, was sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the design and creation of two sets of shelving units for the pavilion located at the Ed Isaacson YMCA Center.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-44

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-40

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-36

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-38

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Beer, Growlers- Sunday Sales

PURPOSE Retail – Wine Specialty Gift Shop

APPLICANT Currahee Brewing Co. d/b/a Currahee Brewing Co. 25 S. Main St. Alpharetta, GA 30009

APPLICANT Tinder Box/Vino 100 d/b/a Tinder Box/Vino 100 131 S. Main Street Ste. G Alpharetta, GA 30009

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Specialty Gift Shop Beer, Wine, Liquor – Sunday Sales

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Wine by the bottle Beer, Wine, Liquor – Sunday Sales

Owner Brandon Hintz Registered Agent James Schroeder

Owner Jennifer Bateman Registered Agent Mark Young

APPLICANT Greater Atlanta Hotel, LLC d/b/a Aloft Alpharetta 7895 Northpoint Pkwy Alpharetta, GA 30009

APPLICANT Mercantile Social LTD d/b/a Mercantile Social 20 N. Main St. Alpharetta, GA 30009

Owner Dilipkumar Patel Registered Agent Nehali Patel

Owner Jodi Chieco Registered Agent Jodi Chieco

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 27

Northern Ridge District announces new Eagle Scouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, recently announced its newest Eagle Scouts.

These are Scouts who passed their Eagle Board of Reviews, held at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Board of Review on March 29: Connor Schoenl, of Troop 629, sponsored by Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of three recycle trash bins for the Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Akaash Para, of Troop 3143 and sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church, who designed and constructed a gardening circle for the Sri Hanuman Temple.

Rohan Edara, of Troop 3143, was sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church. For his project, Edara designed and constructed signs for the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center walking cell phone tour.

Albert Williams, of Troop 10, sponsored by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, whose project was the collection and creation of 100 personal hygiene kits for the Ronald MacDonald House.

Sankalp Vadlapudi, of Troop 27, was sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. He designed and created four aquarium covers for the displays at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

SPECIAL

From left to right stand new Eagle Scouts: Connor Schoenl, Akaash Para, Rohan Edara, Albert Williams, Sankalp Vadlapudi, Jackson Mills and Rohan Vuppala. and Heritage Center.

Jackson Mills, of Troop 27, was sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. He designed and created two ten-foot sections of a boardwalk for

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Rohan Vuppala, of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design

and construction of a fence for the Butterfly Garden at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-39

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-43

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-42

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-41

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Beer, Wine, Liquor – Sunday Sales

PURPOSE Retail Beer & Wine

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Beer, Wine, Liquor – Sunday Sales

PURPOSE Retail- Beer & Wine

APPLICANT Majestic Vino LLC d/b/a Citizen Soul 60 South Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

APPLICANT Vin2Go d/b/a Vin2Go 62 South Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

APPLICANT Legends Music, LLC d/b/a Legends Music, LLC 2200 Encore Pkwy Alpharetta, GA 30009

APPLICANT Fermented d/b/a Fermented 50 Old Canton St. #106 Alpharetta, GA 30009

Owner Phillip Cooper Registered Agent Arthur G. Walsh, Jr.

Owner Phillip Cooper Registered Agent Arthur G. Walsh, Jr.

Owner Daniel Smith Registered Agent Dan Plevak

Owner Adam Danielson Registered Agent Joshua Brooker

28 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Milton cycling event surpasses goals in year two St. Paddy O’ Pedal raises $29,000 for charity

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com

CREDIT: CHRIS MURPHY

The event raised $29,000 to benefit pediatric cancer research.

MILTON, Ga. — The St. Paddy O’Pedal cycling event was a resounding success in its second year, nearly doubling its number of riders and raising $29,000 for childhood cancer research.

The event benefits the Kiersten Dickson Memorial Cancer Research Fund, an organization created to benefit studies on pediatric cancer. Dickson was a beloved local who worked at Olde Blind Dog. She succumbed to small cell lung cancer in 2016 at the age 19.

The March 18 event more than doubled the donations from last year and drew nearly 400 participants.

Mark Murphy, event organizer, said the success of this year’s campaign far exceeded expectations.

“Our goals were to have 300 riders and raise $20,000,” he said. “We blew the doors off that.”

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CREDIT: CHRIS MURPHY

Multiple routes of various lengths were available at St. Paddy O’Pedal, some of which passed Milton High School.

Rides of various lengths were offered, including a family fun ride, and distances of 25, 45 and 63 miles. The 63-mile or “metric century” ride was new for this year and proved the most popular, Murphy said.

The Olde Blind Dog Cycling Club contributed heavily to the event’s success. St. Paddy O’Pedal is one of a

The following items will be considered by the City Council on Monday, April 16, 2018 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-18-AB-37

a. Z-17-18/V-17-39 1245 Rucker Road Consideration of a request to rezone 1.85 acres from AG (Agriculture) to R-12 (Dwelling ‘For-Sale’, Residential) to allow for the property to be subdivided into five (5) single-family detached lots. A variance is requested to allow a hammerhead turnaround in lieu of a cul-de-sac and to allow a private street within residential lots. The property is located at 1245 Rucker Road on the south side of Rucker Road and east of Harris Road and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1275, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers April 5, 2018 3:00 P.M.

b. V-17-21 55 & 61 Roswell Street/Parking and Building Height Variance Consideration of a request for variance to reduce parking requirements and to increase the building height from 40’ to 46’ to allow for the construction of a 35,000 square foot mixed-use building. The property is located at 55 & 61 Roswell Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1269, 2nd 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 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Wine by the bottle Beer, Wine, Liquor – Sunday Sales APPLICANT The Southern Porch on Main Corporation d/b/a Southern Porch on Main 62 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 Owner Jodi Chieco Registered Agent Jodi Chieco

number of community initiatives the club takes on.

Mike Moss, a founding member of the club, said the organization not only aims to benefit local riders, but also to make a positive impact on the Milton community.

“When the club formed in 2014, it started with the thought that we wanted to ride, drink beer and be with friends,” Moss said. “But that progressed into helping the community.”

As cities grow, its culture can be lacking, Moss said. But with the club’s expansion, it set out to create a culture of friendship, comradery and service.

“As the group became bigger, people began talking about how we could help others,” Moss said. “We see it as a way to affect local culture positively.”

The cycling club also recently “adopted” roadways near Olde Blind Dog and led a cleanup event.

Moss said he hopes those initiatives will help continue the group’s positive impact on the community as it continues to grow.

The club, which organizes multiple rides each week, has grown to include 1,500 members from Milton, Roswell, Alpharetta and other nearby communities. But its reach has become worldwide.

“We have had people visiting the Milton area, whether on business or otherwise, who have joined us for rides,” Moss said. “We have people from France and Colombia as well as many different parts of the U.S. Knowledge of the club has really gotten out there.”

“We have a lot of support, people look forward to the friendships, and the club has become an important piece in a lot of people’s lives,” he said.

Creative: Continued from Page 11 lives, Bennett said.

“Depression starts sinking in because some of them don’t understand why they can’t go to school anymore since they’ve done that since they were 3,” Bennett said. “Now suddenly they can’t go back to school, the bus isn’t coming, what are they going to do? The parents feel that sense of urgency and panic because some are trying to work and don’t have anywhere for their child to go.

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 mostly melting plastic, but no wires were exposed, police said.

Home burglars make off with $200,000 in goods MILTON, Ga. — Two suspects are believed to have burglarized a Milton home on March 23, stealing $200,000 worth of jewelry and other items.

The homeowner left her White Columns Drive home around 10 a.m. to shop and returned approximately two hours later. There were multiple holes in the glass near the lock of one of the French doors and glass was observed

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 29

“The whole philosophy is they get a choice in what they do. They’re an adult now. Even if we can’t give them everything they want, they get a say in it. No one is made to do anything.”

These young adults also have a need for socialization, she said. The school system helps develop a lot of skills in these clients, she said, but a lack of socialization leads to depression.

“I want them to maintain friendships, learn to be more socially appropriate and gain the skills they need to live independently,” Bennett said. “That goes with the job skills, too. I wanted our program to become a community and for these guys to feel safe,

inside the home in the hallway.

Officers noted that two computers located in the main level of the home had been untouched, but the suspects appeared to have rummaged through the master bedroom.

The victim said a blue duffel bag containing jewelry and other valuables, plus another bag, were missing.

Police questioned a woman who was hired to clean a neighboring home. The woman stated she saw a black Dodge Avenger with tinted windows in the victim’s driveway around 11:30 a.m. The witness said the passenger side window was cracked and she could not see the car’s tag. After she saw the vehicle, the witness said the car quickly exited the driveway in the direction of Freemanville Road. She believed two males were in the car but did not have a further description.

have friends here and [whome] they can invite to outside activities and to maintain that so they have a purpose.

All the clients here are very happy and have made progress since coming here.”

Next up, the group will be opening Creative Cafe at the Forsyth County Courthouse in April. Many of the clients already have jobs in the community, but Bennett said this will give a chance for the others to get involved. They’ll learn what’s expected in the job, how to talk to the public and how to work with others.

“It’ll be a big deal for us,” she said.

“We’re doing it for the experience and for the community to see what we’re

capable of doing. I hope it opens more opportunities for everybody to get a job.

I want them to know, we all have jobs, but we can have fun, too. We make of life what we can. We all have a purpose.

We have the best employees, parents and clients. I’ll fight for what they need every day.”

Even with parental donations and the state funding, Creative Enterprises still relies on outside donations. To learn more or donate, visit creativeenterprises.org/forsyth and leave a note in the donation box specifying the money for the Forsyth Campus. You can also contact Bennett at 678-8948960 or lisab@ceisite.com.

Not Just Funerals, Celebrations of Life.

950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076 | 770-993-4811 | www.roswellfuneralhome.com

30 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

North Fulton Community Charities

Now Hiring

Fulltime Bilingual Intake Specialist (English/Spanish). Manage Reception Area and Intake Desk at NFCC, a locally supported, volunteer based nonprofit serving a diverse population in North Fulton with emergency needs. NFCC requires background check, drug screen and e-verify.

Pick up application & job description at NFCC, 11270 Elkins Rd, Roswell 30076 or cfonseca@nfcchelp.org

North Fulton Community Charities

Now Hiring Full Time

Facilities Technician $16.92/hr (negot w/exp), full benefits. Primarily technical responsible for the maintenance, repair, alteration and construction, supervision of City buildings, facilities & fixtures incl electrical, HVAC & plumbing. Also supervises in-house custodial services, & coordinates/oversees contracted ser vice providers. Details w w w.suwanee.com.

Application/resume: City of Suwanee HR, 330 Town Center Ave, Suwanee, GA 30024 or Fax 678-546-2120.

E/O/E; DFW

Donation Door Supervisor: Supervise Thrift Shop donation intake and back door volunteers. Requires heavy lifting. NFCC is a locally supported nonprofit organization serving the community of North Fulton. NFCC does require a background check, drug screen and e-Verify. Job description and application available at 11270 Elkins Road, Roswell 30076 or submit resume to Tina Adams tadams@nfcchelp.org.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 5, 2018 | 31

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32 | April 5, 2018 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com