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28-year-old Michelle Wexler cancer victim ►►PAGE 22
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December 19, 2013 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 13, No. 51
INVESTIGATION »
Bodker taking fight to court Asks judge to quash records subpoenas By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com
Couple brings smiles to Nepal Johns Creek couple Bruce and Susan Keenan visit with Nepali orphans they adopted through their NGO, Himalayan Children’s Charities. The children are dressed for dancing in a Katmandu festival. Read the story on page 4
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Mayor Mike Bodker said he has tried to take “the high road” while four councilmembers and one ex-member have called into question his honesty and integrity as mayor, but with the resumption of the investigation, he wants to put an end to it. “I have felt this investigation has been improper from its start. There was always a proper method to pursue an ethical or a criminal com-
plaint,” Bodker said. “This [investigation] just wasn’t it. Given the latest issuance of the subpoenas and the appearance of the continued investigaBODKER tion, then absent this action, I don’t know what it is going to take to get the four councilmembers who have pursued this to stop.” Bodker’s attorney Michael
See BODKER, Page 8
Graduation rates increase across state, region Georgia still lags at bottom nationwide By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com ATLANTA – State officials are touting the rise in graduation rates for the class of 2013, while acknowledging there is still considerable work to do to lift Georgia from among the worst performing states in the nation. Locally, schools in the Fulton County School System also saw modest gains, with widespread differences among high schools across the system. Last week, officials with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) released results showing 71.5 percent of seniors in 2013 graduated
in four years. This reflects a 1.8 percent increase from 2012, but still places Georgia students among the few states with graduation rates hovering around the 70 percent mark. Those states include Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Alaska, as well as the District of Columbia. Georgia’s reported graduation rate dropped considerably three years ago with the switch to “cohort based” calculations. Prior to that, states calculated graduation rates based on numbers – not actual students. So if 100 students entered high school, and four years later the
See RATES, Page 6
School name
2013 grad rate
2012 grad rate +/-
All schools 71.5 69.7 North Fulton
1.8
Alpharetta 89.2 85.7 3.5 Cambridge 84.3 n/a Centennial 79.9 80.3 -0.4 Chattahoochee 93.8 93.5 0.3 Fulton Science Academy 87.8 88 -0.2 Independence 40.4 51.9 -11.5 Johns Creek 96.4 95.1 1.3 Milton 96.0 96.4 -0.4 Northview 94.2 96 -1.8 Roswell 86.5 81.2 5.3 Central/South Fulton Banneker 41.7 41.2 0.5 Creekside 50.1 43.2 6.9 Langston Hughes 73.6 62 11.6 McClarin 25.6 18.9 6.7 North Springs 71.9 67.3 4.6 Riverwood 67.8 70.7 -2.9 Tri-Cities 71.1 65.2 5.9 Westlake 76.0 63.5 12.5
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By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The search for a missing Sandy Springs man intensified Dec. 13, with the Chattahoochee River water level lowered to help efforts to locate him. He remains missing. James “Gary” Morris, 71, of Sandy Springs, was last seen at his home Dec. 4 as he left for Roswell’s Don White Park Extension, on Riverside Road. According to his family,
DUIS & DRUGS All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
DUI arrests ►► Thomas Bradley Clowney,
38, of Dawsonville was arrested Nov. 30 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and following too closely. ►► Vera Borisovna Morgan, 42, of Laurel Mill Court, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 26 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► William Lewis Douglass, 49, of Lawrenceville was arrested Nov. 23 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for DUI
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.
Shoplifters bring child on spree ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Two women who brought a 5-year-
he routinely walked the park. About 1:15 p.m., when he had not returned home, his wife went looking for him and MORRIS found his vehicle unattended. He could not be found. “When she saw his car, she was very concerned about his health and well-being,” said Roswell Police Spokeswoman Officer Lisa Holland. Morris suffers from a heart condition and depression.
A Mattie’s Call was issued to help in the search for Morris. Such a call is an alert specifically aimed at finding elderly or disabled people. Local public safety departments went into action immediately, searching for Morris. Roswell had dogs and boats on the river the first day. After that, Gilmer County brought in a sonar equipped boat and personnel and a wave runner; Johns Creek brought a recovery boat and personnel; Milton Police brought in a K-9 unit; Clayton County brought in a dog team; Alpha Team, a nonprofit search and rescue
team, brought in three dogs and handlers. “We had a lot of help out there,” Holland said. “But we turned up nothing.” The search was hampered in recent days due to heavy rainfall. To help with the search, the Bull Sluice Dam was lowered Friday to reduce the water in the Chattahoochee to help in the search. “We don’t know where he is,” Holland said. “But we want some closure for this family.” If anyone has information about Morris’ whereabouts, contact the Roswell Police Department at 770-640-4100.
and failure to maintain lane. ►► Caitlin Elizabeth O’Toole, 22, of Raleigh, N.C., was arrested Nov. 22 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for DUI. ►► Robert Alexander Beal, 29, of Clayton was arrested Nov. 26 on Crabapple Road in Roswell for DUI, open container and failure to maintain lane.
Executive Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Nov. 15 on Executive Drive in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and obstruction of an officer. ►► Christopher David Kalet, 31, of Acworth was arrested Nov. 29 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for possession of
marijuana, wanted person, expired tag and suspended license. ►► Lionel Kenneth Smith, 25, of College Park was arrested Nov. 30 on Deerfield Parkway in Milton for possession of marijuana, possession of drugrelated items and failure to obey traffic control devices. ►► Brandon Jerrell Thomas, 18, of Hemingway Lane, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 23 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Jennifer Marie Hayes, 34, of Long Circle, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 21 on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Whitney Elena Stracke, 21, of Saddlebrook Terrace, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 25 on Riverwood Lane in Roswell
for possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance. ►► Joshua Kennedy, 20, of Barrington Oaks Ridge, Roswell, was arrested Nov. 25 on Riverwood Lane in Roswell for possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance. ►► Evan D’macio Garret, 20, of Jasmine Parkway, Alpharetta, was arrested Dec. 2 on Jasmine Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and possession of drug-related items. ►► Michael Jeffrey Harvey, 18, of Morning Mist Way, Alpharetta, was arrested Dec. 4 on Old Alabama Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of drug-related items.
old boy with them, were caught allegedly shoplifting according to an Alpharetta Police incident report. On Dec. 5, the loss prevention team at Macy’s, 5000 North Point Circle, told officers two women were in custody for shoplifting. The loss prevention officer said the women picked out clothes from the rack and placed them into another de-
partment store bag, which was in a child’s stroller. Yun Gao, the mother of the 5-year-old boy, was charged with stealing $1,113 in clothes, which is felony shoplifting. Police contacted the father, and he left the store with the boy. The woman’s companion, Qing Yu, was charged with taking $285 in clothes, and was charged with misdemeanor
shoplifting. Both were taken to Alpharetta Jail for processing.
Drug arrests ►► Mikael Ford, 23, of
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Blotter: Continued from Page 2 from police, and one got away, according to a Roswell Police incident report. On Nov. 22, officers saw three cars speeding and weaving in and out of traffic on Ga. 9 and Mansell Road. Officers followed the red Honda Civic, white Nissan Altima and blue Acura as they turned right onto Ga. 92. Officers caught up to the cars and attempted to pull them over. Officers said the Acura sped off down Bent Grass Drive, and the Nissan made a U-turn and headed eastbound on Ga. 92. The Honda pulled over in a parking lot. Officers ran the driver’s license of the Honda driver and found that it was suspended. While officers interviewed this driver, they saw a man standing next to a Nissan in the nearby parking lot of Slope’s BBQ, 34 East Crossville Street. Then, the man got in his car and headed northbound down Crabapple Road. While the officers took the Honda driver to Roswell Detention Center, other officers had been alerted and had pulled over a white Nissan. The driver of the Nissan
was identified as the one of the drivers who eluded officers earlier. Officers said he admitted to speeding away from them, and he was also taken to Roswell Detention Center. The driver of the Acura was never found.
Tampered lottery machines ROSWELL, Ga. — Someone tampered with lottery machines and stole about $13,000, according to a Roswell Police incident report. On Nov. 23, the manager of Chevron, 1360 Holcomb Bridge Road, told officers about $13,000 in profits were missing from the store. He said it was because of fraudulent playing of the lottery machines they kept inside the store.Officers swept the machines for fingerprints and said the investigation is still ongoing.
Black Friday shopper robbed JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Someone stole a man’s briefcase, which contained about $2,000 in valuables, while he was unloading his car of Black Friday gifts, according to a Johns Creek Police incident report. On Nov. 29, a man in the
Camden River Apartments off State Bridge Road told officers he returned home with his family after Black Friday shopping at about 1 p.m. He said he and his family parked in the parking garage and were in the process of unloading their gifts. When the man came back to get the last of his items, he said his brown leather bag was stolen from the trunk, which was left opened and unattended. The man said his $750 laptop, $250 Kindle, $900 iPad and about $80 in cash were inside the bag when it was stolen.
Man found with drug paraphernalia ROSWELL, Ga. — A man called police because he was having breathing problems, and the police may have found the reason why. According to Roswell Police, a man in the 4000 block of Calibre Creek Parkway called 911 at about 9 p.m. Nov. 24. When officers arrived, the man told them he was having breathing problems and asked to be taken to North Fulton Hospital. While officers helped the man out of his home, they found drug paraphernalia laying in plain view. Officers
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cited the man for possession of drug-related objects, a misdemeanor, at the hospital.
Man threatens store over candy CUMMING, Ga. — When a woman was denied the return of a box of candy, her father intervened and allegedly threatened the store, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report. The store owner of the Chocolaterie, 410 Peachtree Parkway, told deputies Dec. 5 a man was threatening to do harm to her store. She said a woman came into the store and bought a $70 box of candy. About 10 minutes later, the woman came back and wanted to return the candy. The owner said their policy does not allow the return of food items, so the woman left. Then, the owner said she got several calls from a man who threatened to do bodily harm to her and her store. Deputies contacted the man. He said his daughter tried to return a box of candy, but the store would not comply. He said his daughter never left the store, and he wanted his money back. The father said he was contacting his credit card company and cancelling the transaction.
The man also said he threatened to do harm to the store and not to the owner. Deputies told the man there was a possibility his daughter left the store, and they could review the video surveillance. The man said they had no right and that the deputies were not a part of mall security. He said he wanted to contact a member of the Sheriff Command Staff and have him come to the store to address the issue. Deputies said he was more than welcome to bring a member of command staff. The owner voided the sale and returned the funds back to the man.
Loaded gun stolen from purse CUMMING, Ga. — A woman left a loaded handgun in her purse, and someone stole it, according to a Forsyth County Sheriff’s incident report. A woman in the 1000 block of Emerald Drive told deputies someone entered her car and stole her purse overnight Dec. 2. She said her biggest concern was her missing fully loaded handgun with hollow point ammo. She got in contact with her credit card company, and they said her card had been used at the QT off Freedom Parkway at about 7 a.m.
4 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
NEWS
Johns Creek couple reaches out to Nepal orphans Create charity to give abandoned children their lives back By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – It is not uncommon for business people to donate their time to mentor young people on how to be successful in business, but it is quite another thing to go to Nepal to do it. Four Johns Creek residents are using their lifelong business skills to teach orphaned and abandoned children on the other side of the world the tools they need to realize their dreams. Bruce Keenan was intrigued to be invited in 1999 to go on a vacation trek through the vast beauty of the Himalayan Mountains, but it turned into a life-changing experience for him and dozens of orphaned or abandoned children who live on the roof of the world. Keenan, co-founder and former chief executive officer of Prosys Information Systems, found that while Nepal was a country of unparalleled beauty, it was also a country of equally unparalleled poverty. He said it was common practice to put small children, orphaned or abandoned, to work instead of sending them to school. Keenan was especially struck by one 7-year-old girl he saw who had been abandoned by her family. The hotel owner in this little village where they were staying had taken her in. He put her through two years of school and then put her to work. “Our guide explained to us that the family had taken her in and fed her and sent her to school. Now she needs to work.
Khil has been sponsored by the Haley family for 10 years. Now he volunteers to build a school in Nepal.
To donate to Himalayan Children’s Charities, send check to: HCC P.O. Box 3837 Alpharetta, Ga. 30023-3837 Or go to www.hccnepal.org. Otherwise, she would be dead. That really hit me,” Keenan said. When he returned to Kathmandu, Keenan began sponsoring two sisters. That was the beginning of the Himalayan Children’s Charities, a nonprofit, non-governmental organization that is helping these lost children. Today, Keenan and his wife Susan manage the non-governmental organization, which has two group homes and is helping 53 orphans with food, shelter and education through four years of college. They range in age from 21 down to 7. After selling Prosys in 2006, the Keenans devoted more time to developing the charity. They soon realized that the students, while receiving their basic needs of food, clothing, education and medical services, had led very sheltered lives in group homes and boarding schools. They did not know how to take care of a home or interview for a job. They had no knowledge of how to save money, manage a bank account or bargain in the marketplace. Using their business talents, the Keenans created a life skills program for senior students to develop self-sufficiency and give them basic skills that people in the U.S. take for granted. “American kids learn basic life skills in the family, from a parent’s guidance or in church,” said Susan Keenan. “These children have no parents to encourage natural abilities or to teach them to interact with the world. Now, in addition to a formal education, they are learning practical skills that will help them become successful in life.” When people ask him what he does now, Keenan shows them information about Himalayan Charities. “We are making a difference in children’s lives. I lay it out to people and see what sticks,” he said. By sticking, he means he sees if people want to get involved. It takes $1,550 a year to feed, clothe, house and educate one child. Corporate dona-
Julie Haley, now a board member of Himalayan Children’s Charities, stands with students in an HCC boarding school. tions make up any shortfalls, but that will support a child. One of the first couples the Keenans met were Julie and Michael Haley, two Johns Creek entrepreneurs who operate their business, Edge Solutions Inc., in Alpharetta. Julie Haley is now on the advisory council for HCC. The Keenans flew her to Kathmandu to see the program firsthand, to meet the children and to make her a better spokeswoman for Himalayan Children’s Charities. She said it was an amazing experience. “I have since flown back over a couple of times with my husband. Once, we brought our son who was at Chattahoochee [High School] at the time, and it really changed his life,” she said. She said her son was caught up in the usual teenage crises of cliques and trying to belong. But when her son got to Nepal, it was truly a different world. “He saw how blessed he was,” she said. “These Nepali kids have nothing but will share everything.” She and her husband have been sponsors for 10 years now and have real relationships with the children they sponsor. They keep in touch via Skype and love getting updates on their progress. “My ‘son’ Khil is 21 and a college student success,” Haley said. “He is in his second year at the University of Kathmandu’s School of Public Health. He plans to open clinics in rural areas of Nepal where there is no health care. “He has already received Red Cross Training and volunteers for two international NGOs,” she said. “Can you tell I am a proud mama?”
Haley began to proselytize for more sponsors and soon had two more Johns Creek families on board as long-term sponsors. The Milway family sponsors “Harsha,” and Dr. Mary Ellen Sweeny, a doctor at Emory Hospital, and her husband Ed Gogol sponsor “Tenzing.” Sweeny actually saved Tenzing’s life when he got a life-threatening tapeworm in his brain. She was able to diagnose the problem and advise Nepali doctors on treatment and antibiotics that allowed Tenzing to recover fully. She will travel to Nepal next fall and the two will actually meet. “It’s a great organization that is really making a huge difference,” Sweeny said. “These kids don’t have any safety net. Most of them were found on the streets with no memory of having parents.” Even those children fortunate enough to find a way into one of the few orphanages in Nepal are not much better off. Haley said they have lice and runny noses. They get little personal attention. “When you walk in, they run up and hold onto to your legs. It is just the saddest thing you have ever seen in your life,” she said. Haley said the organization has had obstacles to overcome. Keenan set up a computer lab for the children to learn the 21st century skills they will need to succeed. When he flew back to check on things, all of the equipment was gone. “Most people would have given up, But he saw how desperate the kids were,” Haley said. “But the Keenans don’t quit.” So the commitment is long-term.
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Fulton Schools shows mixed graduation results NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Last year, Fulton School Superintendent Robert Avossa unveiled a strategic plan that included the ambitious goal of a 90 percent graduation rate for all students by 2017. With four years to go, Avossa is confident they can close the 15 percent gap over that period, though significant challenges remain in many schools. The Fulton County 2013 graduation rate is 75.5 percent, which is a 4.2 percent increase
over the 2012 graduation rate, and more than double the state’s 1.8 percent increase. “We knew we could [meet our goals] by increasing the rate by 3 to 5 percent each year over five years,” said Avossa. “But to have made so much progress in such a little time is exciting. I’m thrilled with this 4.2 percent gain.” In North Fulton, six of the 10 high school sites have already met – or are close to meeting – the 90 percent graduation goal.
Of the remaining four, only Independence Alternative School with its graduation rate of 40 percent falls below 80 percent. In contrast, none of the remaining eight high schools in the Fulton School System, located in Sandy Springs and South Fulton, have graduation rates above 76 percent. These schools have significant strides to make to double, or in some cases more than triple, the current numbers. Among subgroups of stu-
dents, white and Asian students are graduating at rates above 90 percent, while black and Hispanic students are at 56 percent and 51 percent, respectively. Fulton School officials point out that performance in these subgroups is increasing each year. Graduation rates for black and Hispanic students grew by 7 percent and 8 percent respectively, with Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek high schools all
Rates: Continued from Page 1 graduating class included 80 students, the graduation rate was reported as 80 percent. Today, schools must track individual students as they move through high school. That change in calculation dropped Georgia’s true graduation rate by 13 percent – from a reported 80 percent to a true rate of 67 percent in 2011. State School Superinten-
posting double-digit gains in the Hispanic subgroup alone. “Our students, teachers, principals and parents have worked hard. They are taking the message to heart that Fulton County Schools is serious about improving academic achievement,” he said. “But while this is promising, we have to continue it. We will need another four years of similar growth to meet our goals.” – Candy Waylock
dent John Barge said he is still pleased with the upward increase of the graduation rate each year, noting Georgia graduates more students with each passing year. “Under a more rigorous calculation method, the trend still shows that the percentage of our high school students graduating increases year to year,” said Barge. “We must continue our progress to ensure all students cross the finish line, because without a high school diploma, their options are very limited.”
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Johns Creek Police honors officers for exemplary service JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Johns Creek Police Department recognized several officers for exceptional public service for 2012 and 2013 at the Johns Creek Police Awards Banquet Dec. 7 at St. Ives Country Club.“We have set a high standard for professionalism and service in Johns Creek,” said Police Chief Ed Densmore. “Any number of officers could have won these awards, but we chose the officers who we believe have consistently gone above and beyond what duty requires.” Officers were nominated by peers and chosen by a select committee of officers and command staff. Uniform Patrol Officer Dimitri Caldwell was named the 2012 Officer of the Year, and Detective James Harris was Officer of the Year for 2013. Records clerk Alex Medina was selected as the 2012 Employee of the Year, while his colleague, records clerk KaceyAnn Anderson, was chosen as the 2013 Employee of the Year. Lt. Chris Byers, who works as a JCPD public information officer, conducts internal investigations and oversees promotions and hiring, re-
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Cross said he filed a petition for declaratory judgment in Fulton Superior Court last week challenging the lawfulness of the council’s investigation of the mayor and the subpoenas for his phone records and rent checks. Cross said he couldn’t say how long it might be before the judge will respond. “Of course the other side has 30 days to respond, and the court would set a hearing sometime after having heard from both parties,” Cross said. Cross said it was surprising that the investigation had apparently cranked back up given the results of the elections. “I would think a prudent response would be to see if the newly elected members of council would like the investigation to continue, rather than proceeding at a pace that is not prudent,” Cross said. “It makes all the sense in the world to me to go before the newly elected council [and see] what they want to do before you start engaging in work that is going to cost the taxpayers even more dollars, rather than continue based on the decisions by a lame duck council.
ceived the Leadership Award for 2012. Lt. Jason Harper, who oversees much of the department’s training, received the 2013 Leadership Award. Densmore personally picked Sgt. Ronnie Young of the traffic unit for the 2012 Chief’s Award and Detective Cpl. Kevin Rampley for the 2013 Chief’s Award. Officer Duane Ferree earned the Lifesaving Award for 2012 for resuscitating a girl who had overdosed on drugs. Cpl. Charles Kistler received the 2013 Lifesaving Award for rescuing two children from a
burning house. D Squad, which patrols the city at night, was tapped as 2012 Squad of the Year. C Squad, which also protects Johns Creek residents and businesses at night, was chosen for 2013 Squad of the Year. The event was sponsored by Carmine’s Restaurant and Pizzeria, Pasta Vino Italian Ristorante, Never Enough Thyme, Twisted Taco, Sugo Restaurant, Santino’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria, Publix Super Markets, Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet, Altobeli’s Restaurant and Piano Bar, St. Ives Country Club and The Home Depot.
“Especially since it is clear from the results of the election that the taxpayers were not happy about paying all these monies for this investigation,” he said. In Cross’s challenge, he submits that the council has gone beyond its powers (ultra vires) in launching the investigation and that the subpoenas are “unlawful and invalid.” Bodker is also asking for “all costs, expenses and reasonable attorney’s fees” associated with the petition. Bodker said he was not asking for the city to pay for his personal attorney’s fees for the investigation leading up to the petition. “At some time, the spigot has to be turned off. This has not only cost me a considerable amount of money in attorney’s fees, this has now cost the taxpayers well over $100,000,” Bodker said. “As I have said all along, there was a correct method that would not have been a direct burden on the taxpayers. But they did not use it, and I think it is because they knew it would fail.” The last invoice released by the city was dated Sept. 30, of four payments for a total of $81,237. But as evidenced by the investigator’s subpoenas of the mayor for his records that came in December, the investigation and its costs are ongoing.
“As all of the events have transpired, I have concluded this was nothing more than a political witch hunt,” Bodker said. The issuance of an “interim report” published two weeks before the election, followed by the fact that it appeared in every campaign piece, makes it impossible to come to any other conclusion that it was not for political purposes, the mayor said. The overwhelming results of the election in which not only Bodker was re-elected over former Councilwoman Bev Miller, but the other two incumbents Randall Johnson and Karen Richardson were soundly beaten by newcomers, show the community supported the results of the investigation, he said. “I wish this [new round of the investigation] hadn’t happened. Because I truly believe the right thing for the city of Johns Creek following the finality of the runoff was to begin the healing process and to find a way for this council to come together,” Bodker said. “We need to recognize that our job is bigger than us as individuals, and bigger than any personal agenda,” he said. “The only agenda that matters is that of the people, and this continues to get in the way of good government.”
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SCHOOLS Templeton chosen Gatorade Player of Year Volleyball senior 1st ever at Chattahoochee JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Chattahoochee High School’s Haley Templeton has been named the 2013-14 Gatorade Georgia Volleyball Player of the Year. Templeton is the first Gatorade Georgia Volleyball Player of the Year to be chosen from Chattahoochee. This is Gatorade’s 29th year honoring the nation’s best high school athletes with an award that recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field. Templeton, a 6-foot-1 senior setter, amassed 1,271 assists, 541 digs, 436 kills, 93 service aces and 59 blocks. She led the Cougars (48-10) to the Class AAAAAA state finals. An Under Armour First Team All-American as named by the American Volleyball Coaches Association, Templeton owned a .435 hitting percentage and .528 kill percentage. The Class AAAAAA Co-Player of the Year as named by the Georgia Volleyball Coaches Association, she twice earned All-American honors for the A5 Volleyball Club at the AAU Girls’ Junior National Volleyball Championships. “It is truly an honor to watch a young lady achieve her dreams,” said Chattahoochee head volleyball coach Jennie Blevins. “I know how hard Haley has worked over the past four years, and now that determination and drive are paying off. She is making Chatta-
Haley Templeton has been chosen Gatorade Georgia Volleyball Player of the Year, the first to be selected from Chattahoochee High School. hoochee proud. I am so excited for her and what the future holds for her.” Templeton has maintained a 3.68 scholastic average and has signed a national letter of intent to play volleyball on scholarship at the University of Miami beginning in the fall of 2014. Templeton had natural leadership that helped create dynamic team chemistry on the court, Corrigan said. The selection process is administered by Gatorade’s high school sports leadership team in partnership with USA Today High School Sports, which work with top sport-specific experts and a media advisory board of accomplished, veteran prep sports journalists to determine the state winners in each sport.
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CUMMING, Ga. – A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the capture of thieves who broke into a pawn shop and stole 27 guns. On Dec. 2, Cumming Police officers were dispatched to a burglary where 27 guns were taken from a glass display case at Forsyth County Pawn, 211 Atlanta Road. The U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Atlanta Field Division says a $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the theft. An ATF spokeswoman said the agency is offering $5,000 along with $5,000 from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to provide the reward. Special Agent in Charge Christopher Shaefer said there’s a high likelihood that the stolen firearms will be sold or used by criminals in violent crimes. “ATF takes this crime very seriously,” Shaefer said. “ATF remains on the frontline of preventing violent crimes, and firearms trafficking is a serious offense which results in significant federal prison time for the person or persons responsible.” This reward is part of a larger national cooperative initiative between the NSSF and ATF in which NSSF matches ATF rewards in cases involving the theft of firearms from federally licensed firearms retailers.
The five states with the greatest number of firearms reported lost or stolen in 2012: State Total lost/ stolen Texas 18,874 Georgia 12,906 Florida 12,571 California 10,639 North Carolina 9,320 ATF works closely with members of the firearms industry to curb the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms. The ATF reported that in 2012, law enforcement officials nationwide filed 190,342 lost and stolen firearms cases. Of those, 16,667 (9 percent of the total reported) were the result of thefts/losses from federal firearms licensees. Texas was the top state for total firearms reported lost and stolen in 2012 with 18,874 firearms, which was 10 percent of all firearms reported lost or stolen in the country. Georgia came in second with 12,906 stolen or lost firearms. ATF and the Cumming Police Department are asking for any additional information in their investigation of the pawn shop theft that occurred in the early morning hours Dec. 2. Additional information from the public may assist in solving this case. Anyone with information can call the ATF Gun Hotline at 1-800-283-4867(ATF-GUNS) or the Cumming Police Department at 770-781-2000. Callers may remain anonymous.
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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 13
CAFFEINE AND OCTANE »
Car show fundraiser helps Philippines By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Car aficionados who regularly attend the Caffeine and Octane car show the first Sunday of each month on Windward Parkway took a different turn when some enthusiasts turned it into a benefit for relief for the Philippines. It was called Unleash the Rainbow with cars of all colors lined up like a rainbow, and the public voted for the best car with their dollar bills. Atique Shah, a Mariettan who regularly brings his Lamborghini Aventador to the car show, contacted some of his buddies about turning the December Caffeine and Octane (see the Aug. 12 article at Northfulton.com or go to http://tinyurl.com/q9okz8b) to do something for hurricane victims in the Philippines. “We’re just car people who want to do something to let people know we care about them and want to do something for them. So we decided to mix the two,” Shah said. The result was 25 car owners put up an entry fee/donation and then let the visitors at the car show deposit their vote
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
Can’t decide if you’re a rag-top man? Then have it both ways with this hard-top 1957 Ford Fairlaine 500 convertible. for $1. Most of the participants were Lambo owners like Shah, but there was a Bentley, a Ford GT and a Rolls to add a little more spice. There was also a raffle for an iPad that was donated. “When a typhoon happens like that, it is devastating. I thought this is how we can do something. So I notified all of my car friends and asked them to get involved,” Shah said. All of the cars were lined up by color to imitate the colors of the rainbow – and maybe some that are not. That was called Skittles Street, and voters for
See CAFFEINE, Page 32
Atique Shah, center, is not only the chief organizer of the event, he turned out to be the top vote-getter for his 2014 Lamborghini Aventador. Helping him are models from the Titan Agency in Buckhead, from left, Shaheen, Chandler, Jessa and Oana.
14 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
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Chattahoochee Nature Center get $10K CH2M Hill STEM grant Will use money for education program By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
On hand for the CH2M Hill grant awarded to the Chattahoochee Nature Center are from left CNC Development Director DeAnn Fordham, County Commissioner Liz Hausmann, CH2M Hill Atlanta Vice President and Area Manager Gregory Wilson, CH2M Hill Principal Project Manager Lillian Furlow and CNC Director of Education Dr. Tom Howick.
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ROSWELL, Ga. – The Chattahoochee Nature Center got a big boost for its cooperative STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) educational program with a $10,000 grant from the CH2M Hill Foundation. At Dec. 3 presentation at the CNC’s Discovery Center, CH2M Hill executives, CNC staff and county officials met to accept the check. CH2M Vice President and Area Manger Gregory Wilson said the Nature Center was selected from competitive applications for the grant. “This grant symbolizes our values surrounding STEM education – youth involvement, environmental education and stewardship of nature,” Wilson said. Programs such as the Nature Center’s STEM education program are important for CH2M Hill’s future also, Wilson said. “Science, technology, engineering and math education is important to our future and to our long-term economic development. By using the environment and natural sciences to explore STEM topics, we can give our students a strong foundation while providing them with opportunities to utilize creative skill sets that will prepare them for careers and professions in engineering and other fields,” he said. The grant will fund a pilot STEM program that will be integrated with the Fulton County Schools curriculum working with five elementary school third-grade classes and five fifth-grade classes.
CNC Development Director DeAnn Fordham accepted the check on behalf of the Nature Center, thanking CH2M Hill for its ongoing support over the last 20 years. “We are grateful for the foundation’s support of our efforts,” Fordham said. Fulton County Commissioner Liz Hausmann, representing the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, said the board is grateful for the corporate grants made by the CNC’s business partners. “Fulton County has a long history of supporting the Chattahoochee Nature Center dating back to 1976. We applaud CH2M Hill for their support of this new STEM initiative that will benefit Fulton County students and expand the pilot program initiated this year,” Hausmann said. CNC Education Director Dr. Tom Howick said CNC will be working with schools so that students learn to see the connection between STEM education and nature. The initial program is being piloted this year at five elementary schools. Those schools include River Eves, Mimosa, Oak Knoll, State Bridge Crossing and Northwood Elementary for the third and fifth grades. Teachers are also involved in the program so that after field trips to CNC, the students get reinforced instruction that directly ties to what they have seen at CNC. “The Chattahoochee Nature Center feels strongly about the use of STEM in environmental education programming. Our grounds and the schools’ outdoor classrooms provide excellent spaces for students to study the STEM components. We are committed to promoting the role of natural science education through this STEM initiative,” Howick said.
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Spruill Oaks Library offers Milton District promotes free citizenship classes Alpharetta Scouts JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Northeast Spruill Oaks Library is offering a free series of citizenship preparation classes for 13 weeks. The classes will be held on Sundays at the Northeast Spruill Oaks Library in Johns Creek from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 12, 2014 and ending April 27. No classes will be held on Jan. 26, March 9 or April 20. Registration for these classes is required.
You must bring a permanent legal resident/ green card to the class. The classes are sponsored by the Catholic Charities Atlanta with the Northeast Spruill Oaks Library. The library is located off Old Alabama Road at 99560 Spruill Road in Johns Creek. To register or for more information, call 770-360-8820 or email karen.swenson@fultoncountyga.gov.
MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who passed their Board of Review on Dec. 4. Duncan Hensley, of Troop 2000, was sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church. For his Eagle project, Hensley landscaped and enhanced a butterfly garden at Dolvin El-
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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 17
Sen. Albers to host series Healthy children still at risk for flu of town hall meetings Flu shot highly recommended ATLANTA – Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell) will host a series of town hall meetings throughout the upcoming 2014 legislative session to offer ALBERS constituents periodic updates about the General Assembly’s business at the State Capitol. These informal meetings provide an opportunity for constituents to become actively engaged in the legislative process and ensure proposed legislation reflects the will of the people. Albers will also be accompanied by several other members from the Legislature during the town hall meeting series. The meetings will be held in the following locations from 11 a.m. to noon: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014 WHAT: Mountain Park/ Woodstock Town Hall WHERE: Mountain Park City Hall 118 Lakeshore Dr.
Mountain Park, Ga. 30075 Saturday, Feb. 1 WHAT: Roswell Town Hall WHERE: Roswell City Hall 38 Hill Street Roswell, Ga. 30075 Saturday, Feb. 15 WHAT: Johns Creek Town Hall WHERE: Newtown Commu nity Center 3150 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Saturday, March 1 WHAT: Alpharetta/Milton Town Hall WHERE: Alpharetta City Hall 2 South Main Street Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Saturday, March 15 WHAT: Sandy Springs Town Hall WHERE: Sandy Springs City Hall 7840 Roswell Road Sandy Springs, Ga. 30350
for children, parents By CAITLIN WAGENSEIL caitlin@northfulton.com ATLANTA – Hundreds of healthy children die from the flu each year. While children with high-risk medical conditions including asthma and heart disease are more likely to contract the flu, those without any previous health problems are also susceptible, accord-
ing to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). From October 2004 through September 2012, the study showed 830 children died from the flu. Of those children, 43 percent had no high-risk medical conditions. “It doesn’t matter whether there’s some underlying condition or not,” said Dr. James Fortenberry, pediatrician-in-
chief at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “Healthy children are at risk too – it’s critical that everybody get the flu shot.” As a pediatric critical care doctor, Fortenberry treats children who have a mild case of the flu, as well as children who end up in the intensive care unit because the virus has become so severe. “The flu can take a variety of forms, and the reason we’re so concerned is because it can affect so many people,
See FLU, Page 32
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18 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
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By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – It’s easy to assume large companies don’t care about the environment, only looking at their bottom line. For Home Depot, that couldn’t be further from the truth. That was the message given by Ron Jarvis, Home Depot’s vice president of environmental innovation and sustainability, at the weekly meeting of the Alpharetta Rotary Dec. 13. The Milton resident started with Home Depot in 1995, working at the rival store, Lowe’s, for much of his working life before that. “I know a lot about this industry,” Jarvis said. After a very public protest of Home Depot goods using old growth tree lumber, the company began looking into the sustainability and origin of the goods it sells. Jarvis was chosen to lead that effort. What began as an audit of 300 wooden products quickly turned into one of 9,000 products and led to every country on the planet. Everything from plywood to ceiling fans and hammer handles was investigated. “We didn’t know if [our goods] were sustainable or from a rainforest,” Jarvis said. “Do you really want [rainfor-
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Home Depot Vice President of Environmental Innovation and Sustainability Ron Jarvis, right, with Alpharetta Rotary President Dan Merkel. est wood] in the handle of your hammer? There are a lot of issues when you are a big company buying goods from all over the world.” Now, the company is sometimes more knowledgeable of where its goods come from than its suppliers who make them. “We take a hard look at our suppliers for sustainability practices,” he said. Beyond environmental issues, labor practices are also investigated. Home Depot has begun flexing its corporate muscle to encourage suppliers to be more environmentally friendly. A case in point is with paint. The gases given off by paint can be harmful to the consumer but also to the environment. However, Jarvis and his team realized the low-emis-
sion paint was more than twice as costly as the name brand, typical paint. So Home Depot went to the name brand companies and told them the company would only be selling low-emission paints. The suppliers had two years to comply. Cleaners are also an issue Jarvis is tackling. He said the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires chemical cleaners to have labels detailing the ingredients – except for proprietary chemicals. So what do companies do? List all the harmful chemicals as “proprietary.” Using this tactic, some companies are able to label their product as “healthy” or “eco-friendly” when in fact it is not. Jarvis and Home Depot are working with other retailers – notably Walmart and Target –
To help protect endangered forests and to ensure that there will be timber for future generations, Home Depot issued its first wood purchasing policy in 1999. The policy: • Gives preference to the purchase of wood and wood products originating from certified well managed forests wherever feasible. • Eliminates the purchase of wood and wood products from endangered regions around the world. • Practices and promotes the efficient and responsible use of wood and wood products. • Promotes and supports the development and use of alternative environmental products. • Expects its vendors and their suppliers of wood and wood products to maintain compliance with laws and regulations pertaining to their operations and the products they manufacture. to remedy this. By implementing sustainability practices throughout the company, in just 2012, the company reduced its carbon footprint by 220,000 metric tons and saved over $700 million in utility costs. Jarvis routinely meets with groups such as Greenpeace and attends conferences to ask what issues the company should be working on so it can
get in front of them before they become problems. Deforestation, carbon emissions, fair labor practices and child labor laws are all issues Home Depot tackles in its effort to be the friendly giant, both to consumers and the environment. For more about what Home Depot is doing for sustainability and the environment, visit www.ecooptions.homedepot. com.
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TECHNOLOGY »
Solar Energy USA awarded military installation ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Solar Energy USA announced they have been selected by the Department of Defense to install a 106 kW photovoltaic solar energy system at a military base in Savannah. The roof-mounted PV system will be installed on the Georgia National Guard Hunter AASF building and will generate more than 161,000 kWh of power annually, the company said in a news release. The 403 solar panels to be installed are made by Suniva, another Georgia-based company. “The United States is currently experiencing a very strong period of solar growth,” said Perry Bell, president and chief executive officer of Solar Energy USA. “Thanks to decreasing costs and impressive long-term savings, over 5.3 gigawatts (GW) of new American solar electric capacity is projected to come online in 2013. Solar Energy USA is proud to offer our line of Affordable Solar Solutions to the Department of Defense at the Georgia National Guard facility in Savannah.” The Savannah National Guard solar installation decision comes shortly after a U.S. Army policy memorandum on energy-related topics including solar power was introduced. In May 2013, the Army established a new policy for “Operational Energy,” which focuses on improving the Army’s capabilities through better use of energy. The total installed capacity of renewable energy sources for the U.S. military will grow from 80 megawatts (MW) in 2013 to more than 3,200 MW by 2025 – increasing more than four-fold in 12 years – according to a report from Pike Research. Solar Energy USA expects the Georgia National Guard’s new solar power system to be installed and operational by the end of the first quarter of 2014. Visit www.solarenergy-usa.com for more information.
RIBBON CUTTINGS »
BusinessBriefs
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 19
and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Georgia Properties said he is grateful for the legacy of 50 years of Prudential Georgia Realty and is most excited about continuing this heritage as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “We’re tremendously proud to be a part of Berkshire Hathaway, which is ranked by Barron’s magazine as the No. 1 company in their list of the world’s most respected companies,” Forsman said. “North Fulton is the heart of the corporate relocation market and the finest neighborhoods in the Atlanta metro area.” For more information, visit www.bhhsgeorgia. com.
surgens Orthopaedics continued the practice’s commitment to serving others through their charitable work at the “Our Hearts to Your Soles” event. Raut, who practices at the Resurgens Cumming office, and Stewart, who practices at the Resurgens offices in Henry and Morrow, said they enjoyed participating in the eighth annual outreach effort. The 2013 Our Hearts to Your Soles event, held at the Central Night Shelter in downtown Atlanta, served more than 80 men. Each man received a foot exam, a new pair of shoes and two new pairs of socks. Forrest McMahan of McMahan Shoes measures the men’s feet so they get appropriately fitting shoes. Nationwide, there are about 50 sites and the program provides shoes to close to 5,000 people each year. “There are so many in our city who need a helping hand,” Raut said. “It is an honor and a privilege to be able to give back to our community in this manner.” For more information, visit www.resurgens.com.
OPENING »
Fresh from oven, Nothing Bundt Cakes opens in Milton Bariatric surgery center opens in Johns Creek JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Atlanta General and Bariatric Surgery Center, 6300 Hospital Parkway held their ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 7. Dr. William Johnson, Dr. Christopher Heart and Dr. Kimberly Lairet are the center’s physicians, and the clinical administrator is Christy Lee. Lee said they are a free-standing ambulatory surgery center, offering general surgeries as well as specializing in weight loss surgeries including laparoscopic gastric sleeve and laparoscopic gastric banding. Call 678-691-6257 or email clee@agbasc. com for more information.
COMMUNITY »
MILTON, Ga. — Nothing Bundt Cakes – a bakery specializing in nostalgic, yet refreshingly modern Bundt cakes − is spreading its wholesome goodness to Milton. The bakery, 5230 Windward Parkway, which opened its doors Dec. 13, will celebrate their grand opening festivities the week of Jan. 6, beginning with a ribbon cutting and culminating with a full day of activity on Saturday, Jan. 11. Nothing Bundt Cakes offers customers a wide range of cake flavors and sizes, from Bundtinis – single serving cakes – to larger Bundts that serve up to 18 people and tiered cakes, which serve up to 26 people. “We have lived in this community for 17 years and it is exciting to be a part of a business that will cater to celebrations and happiness,” said Gloria Mattei, co-owner of the bakery along with husband Sergio Pacheco. Founded in 1997, Nothing Bundt Cakes is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev. This bakery’s opening makes a total of 79 bakeries in U.S. Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com for more information.
FINANCE »
Armstrong named director at Brady Ware and Company
From left: Appen Media Group’s General Manager Hans Appen; Appen Media Publisher Ray Appen; The Butler/Swayne Team: Lisa Swayne and Stephanie Butler and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Georgia Properties President and CEO Dan Forsman.
Prudential Ga. joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices ATLANTA — Prudential Georgia Realty is now officially Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Georgia Properties. The official announcement was made Tuesday, Dec. 9 at a special celebration event at the High Museum of Art. In addition, locations throughout North Fulton and Forsyth held ribbon cutting events last week. Dan Forsman, president
Dr. Sourendra Raut performs a free foot exam on a homeless man.
Resurgens Orthopaedics surgeons help homeless men ATLANTA — Two local surgeons gave more than 80 homeless men free foot exams, shoes and socks. Drs. Gary Stewart and Sourendra Raut of Re-
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Brady Ware and Company announced that certified public accountant Anna Frick Armstrong joined the firm as a director in the Alpharetta office, 10375 Old Alabama Road Connector. “I look forward to continuing to serve my current clients while providing them access to the expertise and experience of the Brady Ware team members,” said Armstrong. “Brady Ware believes as I do: our primary purpose is to help our clients prosper.” Brady Ware is a large regional CPA/consulting firm, with a 130-member team operating from offices in Columbus and Dayton, Ohio, Richmond, Ind., and Alpharetta. For more information, visit www.bradyware.com.
20 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
BusinessPosts
Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@northfulton.com
Selecting the best marketing media Will offering a bonus or allowance help sell your home? As a seller, when you’ve had showings but activity slows down after a while, the first natural thought is “why are things slower,” followed by “what can we do to change this?” When that happens, a common idea is to offer a bonus to the selling agent. The thought being that the agent will see the extra money and push their clients to view this home. The truth is, while our buyers’ agents would love to get a bonus, home buyers usually define which homes they want to visit. A buyer’s agent can put a home on the list to see, but it really should meet the criteria of the client. If there is a bonus involved, it will just be luck. When there have been enough showings, there should be sufficient feedback for a seller to know why offers haven’t materialized. They can range from the obvious like poor condition, a difficult lot or undesirable location and lack of updates. With items of condition and updates, sellers often want to offer an allowance to the buyer,
ROBERT STRADER
Local Realtor Keller Williams Realty
rather than correct the deficiency. The thought being the buyer can pick out their own granite or carpet color and that would be better. The truth is buyers like clean, crisp and move-in ready. The best way to overcome condition or updates is with a lower price or correcting those items. I find that if you take a detailed and honest assessment of the competition and any similar homes that have sold while you were on the market, the reasons why you haven’t received an offer will present themselves.
What kind of media are you using to market your small business? Are you getting the results you anticipated? Have you wondered whether other media channels would be more effective? Marketing your small business is essential to attracting new customers, and selecting the best media channels is an important component of getting your message out. There are four basic marketing media: • Print media such as newspapers, magazines and flyers • Broadcast media such as radio and television • Outdoor media such as billboards and signs • Digital media such as websites, email and social sites While there are seemingly an infinite number of media channels, you probably don’t have infinite time or money to utilize every one. So how do you decide which ones to use? The best starting point for selecting your marketing media is to determine who you want to reach and, more specifically, what media your target audience is most likely to see. Asking your
DICK JONES
Founder & President Jones Simply Sales
current customers what they would prefer is a good starting point. Are they more inclined to read the local paper, tune into local radio shows or notice outdoor ads? Are they using social media and, if so, which ones? Depending on the answers to these questions, you can then assess the cost and potential “reach” you will receive and select the media channels that give you the highest potential of getting your marketing messages seen. Selecting the best marketing media will strengthen your marketing effectiveness and also increase the visibility of your small business to new customers.
NewBusinessSpotlights New facial surgeon opens in North Georgia Capstone Chiropractic opens in Alpharetta
Greater Atlanta Oral Facial Surgery during a ribbon cutting ceremony with members of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Business: Greater Atlanta Oral Facial Surgery Opened: August 2013 Owner: Dr. Abtin Shahriari What: Equipped with state-of- the-art technology, GAOFS offers a comfortable and friendly environment for patients. Using 3-dimensional virtual reality surgical planning and the latest
safety equipment, GAOFS is one of the premier oral facial surgery offices in the area. Where: 425 Peachtree Parkway Suite 340 in Cumming. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon. - Fri. and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Call: 404-433-8433 Web: www. oralsurgeonatlanta.com.
Dr. Leanne Smith adjusts young Sebastian.
Home cooking business opens in Alpharetta
Full service Farmers Insurance opens in Roswell
Chris Zercher, of Farmers Insurance, The Zercher Agency.
Business: Farmers Insurance – The Zercher Agency Opened: November 2013 What: Full-service insurance agency offering home, auto, life, business and health insurance to the community via the third largest carriers in the country, Farmers Insurance. Where: 802 Macy Drive in Roswell. Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Call: 678-369-6999 Email: czercher@farmersagent.com.
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Business: Capstone Chiropractic Opened: December 2013 Owner: Dr. Leanne Smith What: Quality chiropractic care to children and families through safe and gentle adjustments. Smith’s goal is to see her community thrive with improved function and health Where: 480 North Main Street, Suite 201 in Alpharetta. Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a..m. and 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.. Tuesday; Closed Thursday and by appointment on Saturday. Call: 770-864-1195 Web: www.capstonealpharetta.com.
Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle during the grand opening celebration of AJ’s Home Cooking.
Business: AJ’s Home Cooking Opened: August 2013 Owner: Eun Kim. What: AJ’s Home Cooking is a familyfriendly home cooking buffet that is proud to be serving the Alpharetta area. The buffet includes an extensive salad and fruit bar and numerous desserts. The menu changes daily and all meals are cooked on the premises. Fresh-cooked veggies and homemade meats buffet cost $7.48. Where: 11770 Haynes Bridge Road, Suite 902, Alpharetta. Times: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon. - Sat. Call: 770-754-0530 Web: www.ajscooking.weebly.com.
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Submit your event to northfulton.com or email with photo to calendar@ northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.
a series of energetic and classical Chinese dances depicting Chinese legends and traditions. Shen Yun is a non-profit group formed by leading classical Chinese artists wishing to revive the culture of China and share it with the world. The group’s members include winners of international competitions in dance, choreography, and music. Please visit shenyun.com. Show times vary Dec. 27 – 29. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta.
LOCAL LIVE MUSIC »
EVENTS »
"WINTERLIGHT"
FANTASY IN LIGHTS
RYAN PIERONI
Calendar Editor ryan@northfulton.com
The Cumming Playhouse Singers, under the direction of Van McCollum and accompanied by pianist Patricia Wester, present “Winterlight,” a magical choral celebration of the holiday season. Come into the warmth of the Playhouse and enjoy the 60-voice performance. 8 p.m. Dec 20. 101 School St., Cumming. Please call 770-781-9178 or visit playhousecumming.com.
THEATER »
Presented by Callaway Gardens, this show features 8 million lights and 15 dazzling scenes and adds up to one magical night. Fantasy in Lights is the South’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show and one of the world's "Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights," as named by National Geographic Traveler. Evenings through Dec. 30. U.S. Highway 27, Pine Mountain. Please call 800-225-5292 or visit callawaygardens.com.
“RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER”
GLOBAL WINTER WONDERLAND
Presented by the Center for Puppetry Arts, Rudolph soars back into town for this faithful adaptation of the wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us. Show times vary. Nov. 7 – Dec. 29. 1404 Spring St. Northwest at 18th St., Atlanta. Please visit puppet.org.
The spectacular lantern festival and multicultural theme park makes its Atlanta debut at Turner Field. Guests will be able to travel the world in one visit while viewing the largerthan-life lantern designs of international landmarks. 5 to 11 p.m. through Jan. 5. 755 Hank Aaron Drive Southwest, Atlanta. Please call 404-314-1994 or visit globalwonderland.com.
STONE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS
“HOME FOR CHRISTMAS”
The Clayton family gathers together for a yuletide reunion. Their mother isn’t well, and this may be her last Christmas. One daughter is determined to recapture something the family seems to have lost. In the midst of laughter and witty dialog, they discover something you will want to discover with them. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Nov. 29 – Dec. 22. Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. Please call 770-663-8989 or visit act1theater.com.
SHEN YUN
Featuring a live orchestra, the performance includes
Light up your family holidays with the glow of more than 2 million lights and more than a dozen performances and activities at Atlanta's most heartwarming Christmas celebration. Through Jan. 1. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain. Please call 770-498-5690 or visit stonemountainpark.com.
CALENDAR call 770-887-0756 or visit sawneeballettheatre.org.
ALPHARETTA DANCE THEATER
This theatre’s 15th annual performance of "The Nutcracker" will be at the new Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21; and 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 22. Please call 770-664-4797 or visit alpharetta dancetheater.com.
ATLANTA BALLET
Performed with live music from the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra led by principal guest conductor Gary Sheldon. Enjoy an extra touch of magic when Drew Thomas, professional illusionist and finalist on “America’s Got Talent,” takes on the role of the mysterious Drosselmeyer the first two weeks, Dec. 6-15. Times vary. Dec. 6-29. The Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. Northeast, Atlanta. Please call 404.892.3303 or visit atlantaballet.com.
GWINNETT BALLET THEATRE
The 32nd anniversary season of this theatre’s “Nutcracker.” Performances Dec. 20-22 are danced to live music from the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre Orchestra, conducted by Predrag Gosta. Show times vary. 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. Please call 770-237-0046 or visit gwinnettcenter.com.
METROPOLITAN BALLET THEATRE
This year marks the MBT’s 12th performance of the Christmas classic, performed at the Blessed Trinity High School Theater. Times vary. Dec. 20-22. 11320 Woodstock Road, Roswell. Please call 678-297-2800 or visit metropolitanballet.org.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES »
Road, Roswell. Please call 770-993-6084 or visit stdavidchurch.org.
TOP FIVE EVENTS
ST. PETER CHANEL CATHOLIC CHURCH
Christmas Eve masses throughout the day. Times vary. Dec. 24. 11330 Woodstock Road, Roswell. Please call 678-277-9424 or visit stpeterchanel.org.
ALPHARETTA FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Services at 6, 9, and 11 p.m., and children’s services at 3 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 24. 69 North Main St., Alpharetta. Please call 770475-5576 or visit afumc.org.
SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER
Sixpence None the Richer, the band responsible for hit singles like “Kiss Me” and “There She Goes,” are back to share their newest album “Lost in Transition.” 8 p.m. Dec. 28. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. Please call 770-5946232 or visit roswellcac.com.
CROSS OF LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH
Children’s worship and Communion at 5 p.m., and a Candlelight service and communion at 7:30 and 10 p.m. Dec. 24. 1000 Hembree Road, Roswell. Please call 770-475-9159 or visit crossoflifelutheran.org.
ALPHARETTA PRESBYTARIAN CHURCH
A children’s service will be held at 3:30 p.m., with two candlelight services at 5 and 7 p.m. A candlelight Communion service will be held at 11 p.m. Dec. 24. 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. Please call 770-751-0033 or visit alpharettapres.com.
PERIMETER CHURCH
Perimeter Church invites the community to celebrate Christmas this year at its Christmas Eve Candlelight Services. Childcare will be available for children up to age 5 at the 3 and 5 p.m. services only. 3, 5, and 9 p.m. Dec. 24. 9500 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek. Please call 678-405-2000 or visit perimeter.org/ christmas.
LIVING FAITH LUTHERAN
Come celebrate Christmas Eve with a candlelight service. 10:30 - 11:30 p.m. Dec. 24. 103 Buford Dam Road, Cumming. Please call 770-887-0184 or visit livingfaithlutheran.com.
COOKIES WITH MRS. CLAUS AT BARRINGTON HALL
Bring your child to help decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and write letters to Santa. Reservations required. 10 a.m and noon Dec. 21 and 23. 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. Please call 770-640-3855.
LAND OF SWEETS TEA BEFORE “THE NUTCRACKER”
Enter the magical land with the characters of “The Nutcracker” before the 2 p.m. show. 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Dec. 21. Metropolitan Ballet Theatre, 11320 Woodstock Road, Roswell. Please call 678-297-2800 or visit metropolitanballet.org.
TOYZ 4 TEENZ GIFT DRIVE
Make the holidays brighter for older kids in foster care. Bring unwrapped sports equipment, makeup, bath sets, pajamas or gift cards. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. through Dec. 31. Zenergize Wellness, 292 South Atlanta St., Roswell. Please call 770-992-2079 or visit zenergizewellness.com.
ROSWELL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“THE NUTCRACKER” » SAWNEE BALLET THEATRE
Each year, Artistic Director Joan Kall Stewart brings something new to the performance. A Christmas tree grows larger than life, a lively battle ensues between soldiers and mice, snow falls onstage and much more. Times vary Dec. 19-22. South Forsyth High School Performing Arts Auditorium, 585 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming. Please
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 21
ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Services throughout the day, include a mass in Spanish and a musical presentation. Times vary. Dec. 24. 1015 Old Roswell
Communion will be offered at the 10 a.m. service in the chapel. A candlelight service for families with children will start 4 p.m. in the sanctuary. A traditional candlelight service of lessons and carols, featuring the Sanctuary Choir, will start 6 p.m. in the sanctuary. A candlelight Communion service will be in the chapel at 11 p.m. Dec. 24. 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. Please call 770-993-6218 or visit rumc.com/Christmas.
“MARCH OF THE 18TH” SIGNING
Roswell author Kevin Horgan will be signing his book, “March of the 18th,” at the North Point Barnes and Noble. The historical novel is wrapped around the true events of one invalid regiment created and then forgotten. 11 a.m. Dec. 21. 7660 Northpoint Parkway, Alpharetta. Please call 415-205-4343 for more information.
22 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
SCHOOLS
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‘Lasting legacy’ remains from Mimosa ES’s top teacher School mourns death of popular second-grade teacher By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Less than a year after being named the Teacher of the Year for the
Northwest Learning Community, Mimosa Elementary teacher Michelle Wexler died at the age of 28. Her death from cancer Dec. 6 came just three weeks after the school system staff
had gathered to pay tribute to all of Fulton’s top teachers and staff during the annual Legacy of Excellence gala. Her principal remembers a young woman whose commitment to teaching was reflected in her students and celebrated by her community. “Mimosa Elementary mourns the loss of one of our wonderful teachers,” said
Principal Lynn Johnson. “She was an innovative teacher who aspired to help her fellow teachers and educational community. Her spirit, WEXLER her passion and dedication to Mimosa’s children and her humble personality will be greatly missed.” Wexler was a second-grade teacher at Mimosa Elementary. She was a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in early childhood education and had recently completed her specialist degree at Kennesaw State University. Although she had taught only for a few years, her achievements were recognized by her peers who voted her the Teacher of the Year for Mimosa Elementary, and by the school system which then named her the top teacher for the Northwest Learning Community. Wexler’s motto of “all students can learn” was her personal vision and her guide for motivating her students in the classroom. In an essay she wrote when being considered as one of Fulton’s top teachers, she said she never accepts excuses from students and
Mimosa Elementary mourns the loss of one of our wonderful teachers.” LYNN JOHNSON Mimosa Elementary School Principal instead guides them toward success. “Teachers should set high expectations and include a plethora of academic rigor built into their lessons to continually challenge the students,” she wrote. “There is nothing more rewarding than watching students know they have achieved a short- or longterm goal.” “Because of the professional development she had done with our staff and because she sparked a love for learning in her students, Michelle’s legacy will live forever at Mimosa,” said Johnson. Wexler is survived by her parents, Eddie and Wanda Wexler of Marietta, brother, David Wexler of Marietta, grandmother, Margie Whitmore of Oxford, Ala., and many other friends and relatives.
Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com
COMMUNITY
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 23
DESIGNING DREAMS »
Family gets new $20K master bath, bedroom Rooms redone thanks to charity By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – With a gasp and a cry of “Oh my gosh,” Alpharetta resident Terri Wylie took her first look at her newly decorated bathroom and bedroom Dec. 11. Both rooms were completely redecorated pro bono thanks to the Designing Dreams charity.
“Everything is so beautiful,” Wylie said. “It’s so different from what it’s been for a long time. It’s hard to believe.” The Wylie family has lived in their Alpharetta home since 2000. Wylie herself suffers from multiple sclerosis and has difficulty moving around. Her husband, Kevin, an active volunteer in the community and her primary caretaker, died in October 2012. Since then, it has been just Wylie and her three children. The master bathroom was
JONATHAN COPSEY/STAFF
Terri Wylie is speechless after seeing her brand new bathroom and master bedroom, thanks to the efforts of Designing Dreams.
in dire need of an update. Daughter Erin said the worst thing about the bathroom were the cabinets. “They wouldn’t move, you couldn’t put anything in them,” she said. Instead, everything had
to be placed on the counters, cluttering them. The bathroom was completely remodeled by Allison Havill Todd Interiors and Designing Dreams, a Forsythbased nonprofit that helps one family each year with a room
that needs a facelift. Designing Dreams was started by Todd in 2009. “I had the idea in the middle of the night. [In 2009], the economy was not at its peak,”
See DREAMS, Page 33
24 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
Johns Creek Founders Day Parade winners JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Parade floats created by the Medlock Bridge subdivision, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center and the second-grade Brownie troop from Findley Oaks Elementary School were named the winners in the 2014 Johns Creek Founders Day Parade. A repeat winner from past years, Medlock Bridge won the “Best Subdivision” award with their jungle-themed float, featuring animals such as lions, monkeys and tigers. Nearly 100 residents worked on their float and costumes for months, making it a true neighborhood effort. Autrey Mill’s float featured a classic Santa’s sleigh, set within a nature scene
of animals representative of an 1800s Georgian homestead. The nonprofit’s float won the “Best Civic” award. In a parade filled with Scout troops, the competition was fierce to win the “Best Scout” float. This year, the handmade float created by second-grade Brownies at Findley Oaks Elementary School topped all in its cuteness and theme of “Little Brownie Elfers.” For the last seven years, Johns Creek has had a Founders Day Parade on the first Saturday in December to commemorate its founding as a city on Dec. 1, 2006. Thousands participate and watch each year.
COMMUNITY
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Residents of the Medlock Bridge subdivision in Johns Creek were the big “Best Float” winners in this year’s Founders Day Parade.
COMMUNITY
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 25
Wood latest host for Lt. Governor Cagle North Fulton politicos turn out to support Cagle with eyes to 4 years hence
ROSWELL, Ga. – Roswell Mayor Jere Wood was the latest Republican official to host a fundraiser for Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s re-election, with one eye on 2014 and the other on what Cagle may do in 2018. While Cagle roundly insists his eyes are only on re-election next year, he is widely considered to be the frontrunner for governor in 2018. Wood made no bones about it in introducing Cagle at his home Dec. 10 to well-heeled Republicans of old Roswell. “We like the job Casey Cagle is doing for us in the Senate as lieutenant governor, but I’m looking ahead to the governor’s race [in 2018],” Wood said. “I didn’t think Roy Barnes could be beaten, and Sonny Perdue showed he could. “And I backed Karen Handel because she was a friend and our hometown girl. I want to be on the winning side in the next [2018] election,” Wood told his guests. Cagle was quick to say he is concentrating on his 2014
re-election, but he did nothing to quash the notion of a run at the top job in the following election. He has also worked with North Fulton legislators to move the bills they are interested in through the Senate. This makes them successful back home and likely to maintain that relationship should Cagle move into the “big house” on West Paces Ferry. Cagle brings a message that resonates with North Fulton residents and business people. It is a message that extols what separates Georgia from the rest of the Deep South, and its ability to do business and anticipate what it needed to do to become not only a national player but an international player. That included the vision of Atlanta to build an international airport that is today Hartsfield-Jackson, for Gov. Zell Miller to promote Savannah to be one of the important ports on the Eastern seaboard and for Fulton County Commissioner Michael Lomax to pioneer Ga. 400, which became the road to dot.com business-
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Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, center, teams up with the Roswell City Council. From left Becky Wynn with Cagle, Councilwoman Nancy Diamond and Mayor Jere Wood. es, corporate headquarters, upscale housing and schools of excellence. “[North Fulton] made the significant infrastructure investment upfront to ensure its success,” Cagle told the Republican faithful gathered at Wood’s house. “Ten percent of all goods sold in the U.S. come through the port of Savannah. And Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is simply the busiest in the world.
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“Fortune 500 companies and research industries make their home in Atlanta and North Fulton,” he said. “We have the No. 1 workforce education system in the country. None of this got here by accident.” Cagle said that the foresight and the courage to follow up on it has poised the state for great things in the 21st century, and he said that is what he wants to see state government support to the fullest.
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26 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
Milton man’s trains a Christmas tradition
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50-year passion unabated By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com MILTON, Ga. – For Richard Thoresen, Christmas without his vintage Lionel trains and villages radiating out from his living room Christmas tree – well, it just would not be Christmas. Thoresen’s Christmas tradition of setting up his trains under the tree borders on an obsession that has gone on 50 years now. But it is one he loves to share with family and visitors who come to visit and get one of Thoresen’s personal tours at his Bethany Road home in Milton. “I remember my dad set up a train under our Christmas tree in 1946, and we had one ever since,” Thoresen said. There was a brief hiatus when Thoresen was in the military. But when he married his wife Barbara in 1963, he said, “Honey, we’ve got to have a train. It’s the continuity, I guess. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without my trains.” And so it began. One train is now nine (but only six are running this year) – and Thoresen is a Lionel man. Like many collectors, he only buys from other collectors. There was one Lionel AMTRAK engine and cars set he wanted to buy from another collector, but at his price. “It took me three years to get him down from $1,000 to $600. And then he let me pay so much a month. But I got it,” Thoresen said. It was only later that the man said that AMTRAK was the only train his wife liked. Every time Thoresen went to visit from then on, he got the wife’s cold shoulder.
Since 1963, Thoresen’s collection has grown. His tree has more than 700 ornaments, and the pieces – the figurines, houses, buildings, towers, villages – run into the thousands. He and Barbara would start in October to begin preparing the living room for 200 square feet of villages, accessories and tracks. “I would go down and bring up all the boxes and get them organized; then she would sit in her chair and direct everything,” he said. At 72, Thoresen missed only one year when he was in the hospital. This year has been a bittersweet Christmas because his beloved Barbara died of cancer earlier this year. But he still loves to bring his villages to life. It is continuity. His children and grandchildren will come to see it, as will friends and neighbors. This is not one of those exact replica dioramas perfect in every detail. This is pure Thoresen. One village is his 30-year-old, seven-building Norman Rockwell Sturbridge Village. He has 30 very collectible Thomas Kincaid buildings – but most of the villages have personal touches. He has friends from Suches – a small North Georgia town known as the Valley Above the Clouds – so there is a Suches Village. He tells children every village has a California Raisin action figure, and then watches them have fun hunting each one down. A miniature billboard displays a young girl, which is a photo of his daughter. He is friends with the owner of Johnny’s Pizza at Windward
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
Richard Thoresen has been a train buff since he was 5 years old. Now, he likes to pass on his passion to young visitors like Tripp and Chase Dunaway, behind him. Parkway and Main Street in Alpharetta, so there is a Johnny’s in one of his villages. One village is a Western village complete with vintage 1870s locomotive and an Indian nativity scene with tepee instead of manger. “People come over and give me things just so they can say they are part of the village. I think everyone has a connection to trains. I know I sure do,” Thoresen said.
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
Much of the details in Richard Thoresen’s train villages have a personal touch or meaning, such as this billboard, which is really a photo of his daughter.
Richard Thoresen explains some of the details about one of his five villages to visitor Tripp Dunaway. Thoresen enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for model trains.
SPORTS
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 27
SPORTSSHOOTERS/KEITH MAJOR
Team Cougars enjoy their win over Johns Creek to win the Fall League Lacrosse championship.
Team Cougars beat Johns Creek to win fall lacrosse JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Team Cougars, comprised of players from Chattahoochee and Greenbrier high schools, defeated Johns Creek in the varsity finals Oct. 27 to win the LB3 League fall championship. In the first round of playoffs Oct. 20, Team Cougars defeated top-seeded Centennial High School, the 2013 6-AAAAAA state champions. Team Cougars players included Andrew Alberti, Chris Berchock, Jack Bui, Troy Campbell, Juan Castilla,
Jack Cioffi, Thomas Cohen, Ben Corrigan, Noah Ebetino, Colin Fitzpatrick, Gabe Francis, Hunter Fusco, Zack Hathaway and Mason Hebert, as well as Cole Johnson, Sam Major, Jake McCullars, Cole McVay, Sam McVay, Cal Newsome, Ryan Schaaf, Tommy Stanton, Triston Tetley, Michael Wall, Daniel Wilson, Stephen Wojcik and Nick Zakucia. Head coach Mark Johnson was assisted by Dr. Mark Casertano, Bill Helsley and Chris Kastner.
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Why go to Buckhead, Perimeter, The Highlands, Decatur when you can stay in Johns Creek? Tuesday Team Trivia 7pm–9pm
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28 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
SPORTS
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2014 FOOTBALL »
Next season looks better for most local teams Graduation losses not as heavy as last year By MIKE BLUM news@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – For most high school football teams in North Fulton, 2014 appears to offer more promise than the 2013 season. Unlike last year, when a majority of the area teams suffered heavy graduation losses, this year’s senior classes for most local teams were not as deep as they were the year before. A brief look at how things shape up for the 2014 football season in North Fulton: ALPHARETTA: The Region 6-AAAAAA champion Raiders were one of the teams that do suffer from graduation. It loses around a dozen front line seniors, including receivers Daniel Clements and Andre Harton, standout linebacker Bruce Grauss and most of an excellent secondary. But the Raiders return two quarterbacks who put up big passing numbers, along with the team’s top two running backs and several
receivers. Defensively, end Andrew Butcher keys the list of returning starters, as the Raiders look for a third region title in the last four years and a fifth straight playoff berth. CENTENNIAL: The Knights are coming off a 1-9 season that included two one-point losses and several other games in which they held leads. The team will lose its top offensive (Christian Robinson) and defensive (Alex Estes) players, along with four starters in the offensive line and several key defenders. Versatile back Caden Herring leads the list of returning players, with end Jake Dahm back on defense, along with the rest of the line. Quarterbacks Tee Holland and Luke Able both played extensively after an injury to starter Matthew Harries, but will not have Robinson as a target next season. CHATTAHOOCHEE: The Cougars were likely the most senior-oriented team in the area, and lose a significant amount of talent from a 4-6 team that expected better results. All the key skill position players are graduating, including receivers Colin Lisa and Avery Ward, running back
Chase Nelson and quarterback Taz Wilson. The Cougars return starters at linebacker led by Josh Weisberg, along with a few linemen, but the 2014 offensive personnel will be almost all new. Just three seasons removed from a state championship, the Cougars may be facing a few lean seasons. JOHNS CREEK: After going 17-3 in their second and third seasons of varsity football, the Gladiators were winless in 2013. Huge graduation losses and several key injuries took a toll. The team will again lose a sizeable number of seniors, although some of them were relatively inexperienced after playing behind the 2012 seniors. The biggest loss is Chase Solomon, who started at tailback for three-and-a-half seasons before injuries forced him to end his high school career at quarterback. The Gladiators return linebacker Turner Fortin, the team’s top defensive player, along with most of the skill position players other than Solomon – leading receiver Kyle Varnell and quarterback Kevin Nalecz among them.
AL LEVINE/STAFF
Mount Pisgah’s Ben Miller (12), who will return as a senior next year, will look to make more big plays next season like this one handed TD grab against Pacelli in the playoffs. NORTHVIEW: The Titans move back to the state’s largest classification after a 5-5 season that could have easily been 7-3 or 3-7. After just missing a playoff berth, the Titans could contend for a playoff spot from Region 6-AAAAAA, returning the area’s best receiver, Matty Biondich, and standout quarterback D.J. Pearson along with a productive running back in Nathan Phillips. The Titans will have to replace their top two offensive linemen and a handful of key defensive starters from a group that improved in 2013 but still yielded a lot of points. A 16-12 victory over 6-AAAAAA playoff qualifier
Lambert gives the Titans realistic hope they can compete successfully in their new region. MILTON: The Eagles will be looking for a fourth straight playoff berth after an 8-2 season ended with a loss to North Gwinnett, runner up in the AAAAAA championship game. The Eagles played most of the 2013 season without standout senior running back Treyvon Paulk, among the team’s relatively small senior class. The Eagles will also lose speedster Chad Toliver, two offensive linemen, top receiver Zach Spiezio, several defen-
See FOOTBALL, Page 31
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Chattahoochee trio first triplets to sign with UGA JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Chattahoochee High School varsity swimmers Kevin, Mick and Jay Litherland have signed national letters of intent to swim for the University of Georgia. In doing so, they became the first set of triplets ever to join a Bulldogs program. “We are extremely excited about having these three young men join us,” said Georgia coach Jack Bauerle. “They are all great swimmers, and they are highly thought of in the swimming world nationally. “Each one is a talented young man, and they will have a profound effect on our program – particularly at the NCAA level,” he said. “They all had extremely successful summers, and they are all on their way up. I am looking forward to seeing what they do for Georgia and for themselves.” The triplets, who have been swimming competitively since they were 7, set several state records in Florida prior to moving to Georgia in 2008. That success followed them to Dynamo Swim Club and, later, to Chattahoochee. Of the 11 records listed on Chattahoochee’s swim and dive website, eight belong to at least one Litherland. All three are four-year lettermen as well as senior team captains. All three have been named team MVP. The brothers, swimming for Dynamo, qualified for the 2012 London Olympic Team Trials. Each is well-rounded in every stroke, but each has his own specialty. Not surprisingly, they have their sights set on Rio in 2016. What’s more, they could each swim for a different country if they so choose. As U.S. citizens, they naturally can swim for the United States. Or they could swim for
the homelands of their Japanese mother and New Zealander father. Right now, the brothers are focusing on their last high school swim season and the dream of a 6A state championship bid for Chattahoochee. That would be a fitting close to their long list of accomplishments as the Litherlands enter UGA next fall. Jay, a member of the U.S. National Junior Team in the individual medley events, was the bronze medalist in the 400 individual medley at the Junior Nationals. He came in sixth in the 400 individual medley in the World Junior Championships and was seventh in the 400 individual medley in the FINA World Cup. With two state records and three high school marks, Jay is ranked No. 2 in the 400 individual medley, No. 4 in the 200 individual medley and holds top-10 rankings in the 1,000 freestyle and the 200 backstroke. Kevin, another member of the U.S. National Junior Team in the 1,500 freestyle, was the bronze medalist in the 800 freestyle in the U.S. Open and in the 1,500 freestyle at the Junior Nationals. He holds the country’s top time in the 800 freestyle and has top-15 national rankings in the 400 and 1,500 freestyle and the 400 individual medley. Kevin set two state records and two high school marks. Mick, a finalist at the Junior Nationals in the 200 butterfly and the 400 individual medley, set one state and three high school records. He is ranked No. 7 nationally in the 200 butterfly and has top-25 rankings in the 400 individual medley and the 800 freestyle. Mick has also been recognized as a Scholastic All-American.
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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 29
Seated from left, Kevin, Jay and Mick Litherland become the first set of triplets to sign with the University of Georgia. With them, standing from left, are CHS Athletic Director Milo Mathis, CHS head swim coach Ron Loula, parents Andrew and Chizuko Litherland, Dynamo Swim Club coach Nancy Williams and CHS Principal Tim Duncan. PI NO: 0010241 NOTICE OF LOCATION AND DESIGN APPROVAL FULTON COUNTY P.I. # 0010241 Notice is hereby given in compliance with Georgia Code 22-2-109 and 32-3-5 that the Georgia Department of Transportation has approved the Location and Design of these projects. The date of location approval is November 14, 2013. The purpose of this project is to widen Encore Parkway from Westside Parkway to North Point Parkway. The new widening section will include two 12 ft travel lanes with 2 offset foot buffer, two 6 ft bike lanes, and a raised median that will vary from 8 ft to 30 ft and include left turn lanes. The proposed shoulders from Westside Parkway to North Point Parkway will be widened to 18 ft and will include a 6 ft buffer planter strip and an 8 ft sidewalk. In addition to Encore Parkway improvements, an 8-ft sidewalk will be constructed along the East side of North Point Parkway and shared lanes or sharrows will be used on North Point Parkway to connect the new Encore Parkway sidewalks and bike lanes to the existing Big Creek Greenway trail and parking area. The existing Encore Parkway bridge over SR 400 will be replaced and ungraded to accommodate future SR 400 widening. The project will provide signal upgrades and signal timing and will also include installing streetscape features such as street trees and landscaping, street and pedestrian lighting, and street furniture on both the roadway and bridge sections. Both projects are 100% in Fulton County in Land Lots 653, 687, 688 & 702. Drawings or maps or plats of the proposed project, as approved, are on file and are available for public inspection at the Georgia Department of Transportation: Sebastian Nesbitt District 7 / Area 2 Engineer Georgia Department of Transportation 1269 Kennestone Cir Marietta, Georgia 30066 snesbitt@dot.ga.gov (770) 528-3238 Any interested party may obtain a copy of the drawings or maps or plats or portions thereof by paying a nominal fee and requesting in writing to: Pete Sewczwicz, P.E. Director of Engineering and Public Works 1790 Hembree Road Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 psewczwicz@alpharetta.ga.us (678) 297-6200 Any written request or communication in reference to this project or notice SHOULD include the Project and P.I. Numbers as noted at the top of this notice.
30 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
SCHOOLS
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Fulton gala celebrates top teachers, staff Elkins Pointe principal honored as district’s ‘Principal of the Year’ By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com
Elkins Pointe Middle School Principal Melinda Springman receives a custom jersey from Harry the Hawk, mascot for the Atlanta Hawks basketball team, as Fulton Schools Superintendent Robert Avossa looks on. Springman was honored as the Fulton School System’s “Principal of the Year” for 2013 during the Legacy of Excellence luncheon Nov. 8. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JANUARY 27, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF JOHNS CREEK COUNCIL CHAMBER 12000 FINDLEY ROAD, SUITE 300 JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097 The following Land Use Petition proposals located within the City of Johns Creek are scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. 1) LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
RZ-14-001 Alliance Development Group, LLC 9300 Block of Brumbelow Road AG-1 (Agricultural District) R-3A Conditional Two single-family lots
2) LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION:
RZ-14-002 Cypress Communities, LLC 10600 Block of State Bridge Road 4800 Block of Morton Road C-1 (Community Business District) Conditional TR Conditional 49-Lot Townhouse Development
CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
ATLANTA – Top staff from schools across the Fulton County School System were honored during the annual Legacy of Excellence awards luncheon Nov. 8 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Melinda Springman from Elkins Pointe Middle School in Roswell was recognized as the district’s Principal of the Year for 2013. She was escorted into the gala by members of the Roswell High School drumline, and presented the award by last year’s recipient, Principal Dan Sims of Tri-Cities High School. As the district’s top principal, Springman received a variety of gifts, including the lease to a new car for the next year. Over the next year, she will represent Fulton County Schools in leadership situations at the local and state level, providing a voice for the district’s principals and administrators. Last spring, principals from the 100 schools in Fulton County were asked to nominate a peer who exemplified the school system’s beliefs and mission. From those nominations, four finalists were chosen from each of the district’s learning communities – Joy Schroerlucke of Holcomb Bridge Middle School (Northeast Learning Community), Springman (Northwest Learning
RZ-13-016 (Deferred) Jeffery S. Wages 10900 Block of Bell Road O-I (Office and Institutional District) Conditional O-I Conditional Change in conditions to allow a driveway for future funeral home on adjacent C-1 property.
Community), Ivy Freeman of Dunwoody Springs Elementary School (Central Learning Community) and Carlene Millen of Palmetto Elementary School (South Learning Community). “I am so thankful for the recognition of our hard work at Elkins Pointe Middle School,” said Springman, the principal at the school since 2011. “I am blessed to work with a team of passionate, focused educators both within my school and throughout the Fulton County School System.” Also honored at the gala was school resource officer Ron Willhite of Milton High School who was recognized as the district’s School Professional of the Year.
STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Chattahoochee High School
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK COUNCIL CHAMBER 12000 FINDLEY ROAD, SUITE 300 JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097
LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
MELINDA SPRINGMAN Elkins Pointe Middle School Principal
Proud Sponsor Of:
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JANUARY 27, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M.
The following Land Use Petition proposal located within the City of Johns Creek is scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above.
I am blessed to work with a team of passionate, focused educators both within my school and throughout the Fulton County School System.”
Joey Reihing
Name: Joey Reihing Age: 18 GPA: 3.6 Athletic Team: Wrestling Position: Varsity, 132 lbs. School and/or community activities: 121 Rech Tutoring, Jazz Band, Cougar to Cougar, FLO Athletic Awards: 2013 Individual and Team State Qualifier at 126 lbs. Academic Awards: Honor Roll, AP Scholar with Honors, Georgia Boy’s State Representative Future Plans: Attend either UGA or GA College and major in Environmental Engineering
Palmer Dodge 'Student Athletes of the Week' are selected by the Athletic Departments of Alpharetta, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Milton, and Roswell High School. If your school is not represented, the deadline was not met.
SPORTS
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Football:
offensive line along with Austin Werkheiser, with receiver Colin Bradley, 1,000-yard rusher Chad Manthey and standout kicker Marc Nolan also graduating. But quarterback Conor Davis and tailback Milton Shelton have two years of football left, and were among a sizeable number of sophomores who made major contributions. Standout linebacker Pat Jasinski will be the leader of next season’s senior class, which should continue the team’s recent run of success.
Continued from Page 28 sive backs and both kickers. Offensively, Milton returns quarterback Austin McLeod, running back Mikko Brisker, tight end Jake English and linemen Nick Wilson and Ernest Dye. Linebacker Quarte Sapp will be among the area’s top players next season, with most of the remaining defensive starters also back in 2014. ROSWELL: The Hornets suffered though their third straight losing season (4-6), but were improved over 2012, and expect to continue along that path next year. The Hornets had a relatively small number of senior starters, with defensive standouts Davonte Hill and Josh Selembo, offensive lineman Justin Auer and receiver Colin McCauley the key losses. Other than McCauley, the Hornets return all their main skill position players along with several young linemen who made significant contributions, giving them what should be a potent all-around attack next season. Most of the defense will also be back, with Roswell looking to return to its accustomed spot in the state playoffs.
northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | December 19, 2013 | 31
AL LEVINE/STAFF
Straight ahead: Northview's Nathan Phillips (7) outruns Riverwood's Jordan Rigo (13) for some valuable yardage. CAMBRIDGE: The Bears went 3-7 in their second season of varsity football, including a highlight win over Pope and a close call against subregion champion Creekview. Only a handful of starters graduate, most notably cornerback Zeke Gormley, who led the team in interceptions. The team returns quarterback Brian Moore, who enjoyed a breakout season, top receivers John Hurst and Hunter Smith and lineman Branch Morley. End Josh Kania and linebacker Trey Wolfe head the list of defensive
returners, with kick return ace J.D. White among the Bears’ large sophomore contingent. BLESSED TRINITY: The Titans won Region 6-AAA, and with St. Pius and Woodward Academy both moving up to AAAA next season, their playoff prospects look even brighter after a first-ever trip to the state quarterfinals. BT will have to replace some key seniors, particularly on defense. Linebackers Zach Mitchler and Carter McManes graduate, along with Ryan Mediate and Kyle Evans in the secondary. Mitchler keyed the
MOUNT PISGAH: The Patriots ran off 12 straight victories before losing 17-16 to eventual state champion Aquinas in the Class A semifinals. The team had a small senior class, but will have to replace running back Browning Dunn, three receiver/defensive backs and a handful of linemen. But the Patriots return dual threat quarterback Aaron Winchester, his top two receivers and almost all the front seven on defense, including standout lineman Shingi Chigwere and the entire group of linebackers. FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN: The Paladins (5-5) came within an overtime loss in their season finale from a winning season, but will have to replace almost all their skill position
players on offense as well as their linebackers and secondary on defense. Quarterback Hunter Bryant heads the list of the Paladins’ graduating seniors, along with his No. 1 target Alex Edmonds, the team’s top lineman Clay Hostetter and leading tacklers James Wilson and Taylor Cookston, who were also 1-2 in rushing. Standout punter Ian Berryman, who started at wide receiver, is another senior graduating. Al Morrell, who directed the Paladins to a .500 season in his first year as head coach after coming over from Creekview, will return most of his linemen. But receiver/cornerback Dalton Depew is the lone major contributor returning. KING'S RIDGE: The Tigers went 4-6 with a pair of close, late-season losses in the region and a strong showing against Class A semifinalist Mount Pisgah despite some key losses to injury. Most of the team's starters in the offensive and defensive backfields are returning, but a number of starters in the offensive line and the defensive front seven were seniors. Receiver Penny Hart leads the list of returning starters, with quarterback Henry Jones also back, but linemen Cliff Farrow and Chris Bryant and linebacker Sam Jarrard will be difficult to replace.
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32 | December 19, 2013 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com
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an extra dollar got a bag of Skittles. Facing them were black or white cars in alternating order. This was Oreo Way. Voters on that side for an extra dollar got a pack of Oreos. “So we would see which street wins also,” Shah said. With a DJ and models from the Titan Agency in Buckhead, there was a steady stream of onlookers – and some voters – who oohed and aahed appropriately. Caffeine and Octane brings all kinds of cars, from those that trade in six figures to some that are simply priceless to their owners. Chuck Dyarmett has been coming for about three years. He has a spotless 1965 Volvo Sport 455 – an SUV ahead of its time. “I always liked it, and saw one for sale on Craig’s List and bought it in Alpharetta,” said Dyarmett, who is from Gainesville. That is typical of the breed. Car collectors often seek a car they liked or wanted in their youth. For Dyarmett, it is a little more than that. “I’ve got seven cars now,” he said. “I like
both children and adults. While it simply causes a lot of discomfort for most patients, it can cause life-threatening complications for others,” he said. Fortenberry added the flu harms children less than 2 years of age because their immune response isn’t as well developed. “They’re more likely to have a severe form of the flu because unlike teenagers or adults, they haven’t been exposed to different years of the flu to help them build up an immunity to it,” he said. Which is why, Fortenberry said, the flu vaccine is recommended yearly for all children over the age of 6 months through adulthood. The exception is children with egg allergies because the vaccine contains eggs. But Fortenberry said even with the allergy, there are preparations that children and parents can take. And with the National Influenza Vaccination Week approaching, Dec. 8-14, Fortenberry said children are not the only ones who need to be getting their flu shot.
Chuck Dyarmett loves his 1965 Volvo Sport 544, but then he also loves the other six cars at home that he has restored or is working on. to work on them. Then I’ll sell one and get another.” There is no admission fee to Caffeine and Octane. Sponsored by the AJC’s AutoTrader. com, the car buffs bring their cars on the first Sundays around 7 a.m. By 10 a.m., they’re all gone. The public is welcome to come and chat. These guys (they’re almost universally men) love to talk cars. Parking is as you find it just south of the Home Depot on Windward Parkway.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, January 8, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, January 27, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. MP-13-02/CLUP-13-09/V-13-22 Windward Pod 66 Consideration of a request to amend the Windward Masterplan in order to permit single family “for-sale” residential. A request to change the Future Land Use Plan from “Corporate Campus Office” to “Medium Density Residential” is also requested and a variance from the required 50’ undisturbed buffer required between commercial/office uses and residential property. The property is located between Edison Drive and Webb Bridge Road and legally described as being located in Land Lots 1113, 1180, 1176, 1243, 1179, 1242 2nd District, 1st Section, Fulton County, Georgia. b. Z-13-15/V-13-18 Stonewalk Mayfield Corners Consideration of rezoning 2.3 acres at the southeast corner of Mayfield Road and Canton Street from R15 to R-10M HD(Historic District)in order to permit 18 townhomes. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1197, 1252, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. c. Z-13-13/CLUP-13-14/V-13-17 Peachtree Residential Townhomes Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 2.97 acres from R15 to R8A in order to develop 24 townhomes. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1270, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. d. Z-14-01 Wills at Rucker (R4-D Zoning Designation) City initiated rezoning of approximately 8 acres at the corner of Wills and Rucker Road from R8-D to R4-D as agreed upon by a condition of zoning. The property is located in Land Lots 599, 646, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. e. V-13-21 Peachtree Residential Consideration of a variance to reduce the minimum building setback from 20’ to 10’ for a townhome building located within Victoria Square. The property is located on Orchid Lane within Land Lot 1270, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. f. PH-14-01 Unified Development Code Consideration of amendments to the Unified Development Code in order to change the number of times a change to the code is heard by the Planning Commission in order to require one public hearing instead of two. g. PH-13-03 Unified Development Code (City Council Only) Consideration of amendments to the Unified Development Code in order to make technical corrections throughout the document such as references to the “Director”. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.
“The No. 1 way to prevent the flu is getting your flu vaccine – and that’s not just the child. Parents need to take care of themselves too,” he said. In addition to the flu shot, Fortenberry said there are easy steps to prevent contracting the flu. “Always practice good hand washing because that will prevent the spread of the virus,” he said. “It tends to spread hand to hand, or hand to mouth, so washing your hands and bringing a bottle of hand sanitizer around with you is key.” For parents, Fortenberry said if their child does catch the flu, the best thing to do is keep them at home. “They need to be at home resting so that they’re less likely to pass the virus on to someone else. Plenty of fluids, some chicken soup and mom’s TLC are the best way to handle the flu,” Fortenberry said. He added if the child starts to have difficulty breathing, if they’re vomiting and aren’t able to keep fluids down, then it’s probably time to go to the emergency room. But usually, Fortenberry said, the flu is a virus that gets better with time. For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/flu.
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The bathroom was the main focus of the redesign. A walk-in tub and new cabinets were installed.
Dreams:
Continued from Page 23 Todd said. “Everyone was surrounded by negativity. This is something to give us all a positive to focus on.” Fundraisers are held each year to support the remodeling and redecorating for one lucky family. Wylie’s bathroom and bedroom make-
over is worth $20,000, Todd said. “We met with the recipient to understand what her needs are,” she said. “Then we go over colors, accessibility and storage needs. We do as much as we can with our funds and donations. “It continues to grow,” Todd said. “I hope to continue it each year.” After careful planning, it took two weeks of work to finish the project. For all this
time, Wylie was not allowed into her bathroom, so it would be kept a surprise. Todd redid the bathroom with all new cabinets, counters, mirrors and frames and a walk-in bathtub. In the bedroom, there is a new dresser, along with artwork, lighting and window treatments. “You can’t believe what this means,” Wylie said. “It’s absolutely amazing.”
Angelo Anthony Di Roma, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Tate Head, 76, of Cumming, passed away December 6, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
NORTHSIDE CHAPEL
Rex T. Grizzle, Owner Locally Owned and Operated 12050 Crabapple Rd. Roswell, GA 30075
FUNERAL DIRECTORS 770-645-1414 info@northsidechapel.com and CREMATORY www.northsidechapel.com
North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory
DEATH NOTICES Alice Andrew, 94, of Roswell, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Diane Lynne Baker, 56, of Woodstock, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Joseph Bostardi, 82, of Alpharetta, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Evelyne Louise Doyle, 89, of Dunwoody, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Joan Edmond, 86, of Roswell, passed away November 27, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Julie Bromstad, 63, of Alpharetta, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Paul V. Edwards, 90, of Cumming, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Rayford O’Neal Brooks, Jr., 78, of Cumming, passed away December 9, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Elizabeth Jane Fain, 89, of Lawrenceville, passed away December 8, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Charles Coates, 67, of Johns Creek, passed away December 3, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Henry Ford, 84, of Roswell, passed away December 2, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Margaret Josephine Franklin Craft, 88, of Cumming passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Janet Ann Harrison, 48, of Alpharetta, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.
Lamar Davis, 83, of Cumming, passed away December 9, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Theodore Hazen, 64, of Roswell, passed away December 1, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
Adelaide Hogan, 87, of Milton, passed away December 9, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Karl Hubbard, 49, of Alpharetta, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Betty Hughes, 75, of Cumming, passed away December 8, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Colene Johnson, 93, of Roswell, passed away December 8, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Gary Katz, 75, of Johns Creek, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Belinda Jo Kilgore, 31, of Cumming, passed away November 30, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Kenneth Kroupa, 67, of Roswell, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Gail Mackie, 60, of Dunwoody, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Marcus Harold McClure, 71, of Dawsonville, passed away December 2, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
Shubal McMilan, 63, of Woodstock, passed away November 29, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Linda Morrison, 71, of Roswell, passed away November 26, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Thomas Nail, Jr., 68, of Canton, passed away December 4, 2013. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Doris Nix, 76, of Marietta, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Richard Page, 66, of Alpharetta, passed away November 26, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Barbara Jean Rettinghouse, 71, of Forsyth County, passed away December 9, 2013. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Christopher Schaudel, 42, of Marietta, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Mary Sutton, 86, of Alpharetta, passed away November 28, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Eugene Tauches, 79, of Alpharetta, passed away December 1, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Asa Warner Tindall, Jr., 80, of Cumming, passed away December 5, 2013. Arrangements by Mc Donald and Son Funeral Home. Peter John Tsirigos, 52, of Cumming, passed away December 7, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Maxine Upright, 81, of Sandy Springs, passed away December 3, 2013. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Michelle Wexler, 28, of Marietta, passed away December 6, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home. Audine Wohlford, 70, of Alpharetta, passed away November 29, 2013. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home.
HELP WANTED
Private Alpharetta NAEYC accredited preschool seeking full-time infant, toddler, two’s & three year old teachers. Minimum 2 years c l a s s r o o m experience & good knowledge of early c h i l d h o o d development. CDA or higher in ECE preferred. Please send resumes to: resumes@mcginnis woods.org
TRANSPORTATION
Mature, energetic, am willing to train. Carmine’s, in Alpharetta for over 14 years. 770-7723644 or apply within: 4055 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 14, Alpharetta 30005
ANIMALS
MISCELLANEOUS
INSTRUCTION Native speaker. K-12 certified. Will tutor all levels. $40/hr. Will also tutor other subjects. Refs & background ck avail upon request. 404317-0901
Family run Alpharetta sandwich shop looking for fulltime kitchen prep person and part-time servers. Must be able to work weekends. Open for breakfast & lunch only. Experience preferred. Call 678366-3354 Must have minimum 1 year experience, with computer skills. Roswell/Alpharetta. Dependable team player with positive attitude. Send resume to medoffice123@gmail .com
PERSONAL SERVICES PT/FT. Flex sched. love animals! http:// happytailscare.com/ job-application/
SERVICE DIRECTORY
HANDYMAN REMODELING
ALL REPAIRS & REMODELS
678-455-2434 www.HandyHero.net 30 yrs. exp./FREE ESTIMATES 1 YR WARRANTY/Lic. & Ins.
Core Aeration
$49.95 Up to 1/2 Acre
Fescue over seeding/sod All credit cards accepted ProLawns Landscaping, LLC
770-910-7583
Advantage Painting
Great service! Licensed, insured
20 yrs. Refs. Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, wood rot repair, tile, siding, paint, pressure wash.
770-255-8575 Interior/Exterior Decks Sealed & Stained Carpentry Repairs No Up Front Money Proudly use Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams paints Prompt Professional Service Free Estimate, Insured
Serving N. GA 22 yrs. Stump grinding. Ins/affordable. Free ests! 770-887-8843, 678-858-0555 mmlabors@aol.com
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