Milton Herald - December 28, 2017

D e c e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 7 | N o r t h F u l t o n . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 1 2 , N o . 5 2

Tax payments ease budget concerns ►►PAGE 4

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Bob Farley remembered ►►PAGE 10

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Foundation gives back to local sports ►►PAGE 12

A look back at 2017 It’s that time of year again. The Herald hits the rewind button and looks back at most talked about and impactful stories of 2017 with our annual “Year in Review.” Read more, Pages 6 – 9, 18.

1. Jimmy Buffett tribute band A1A had the crowd dancing and singing along June 24 during the Beach Bash at Bell.

2. Milton won its 11th state championship May 20 with a 13-4 win

over crosstown rivals Cambridge in the 6A-7A girls lacrosse state championship.

3. The new 32,000-square-foot city hall, located at 2006 Heritage Walk, opened March 10.

4. Karen Handel won the June 20 6th Congressional District runoff, becoming the first Georgia Republican woman elected to Congress.

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Cambridge wrestling wins title ►►PAGE 29

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2 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 122 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 139 Northside Woman: ex. 102 Calendar: 122

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ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell police responded to a gunshot call Dec. 12, only to find that a man had shot and killed a deer using a bow and arrow. There is a city ordinance against discharging a firearm within city limits.

The man told police that he shot the deer in his backyard with a bow and arrow. The deer then ran through the woods

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.

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PUBLIC SAFETY

Woman loses wallet while shopping JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 12 that her wallet was stolen during a shopping trip and her credit cards used shortly after.

The woman first noticed that her wallet was missing around 5 p.m. when she attempted to pay after shopping at the Kroger on Holcomb Bridge Road.

Once she left the Kroger, the woman checked her credit cards and noticed that someone had attempted to charge $500 on almost all of them. Each credit card company was alerted about the fraud.

After contacting police, she said she was suspicious of an interaction she had with another woman, who had approached her while shopping asking for help to read a food label.

Security footage showed the female suspect, along with a man, following the woman through the store. At one point, when the woman left her cart and purse, the female suspect immediately went through the woman’s purse to take out her wallet and hand it to the man.

After doing so, the suspect began talking to the woman “to prevent suspicion.”

The identity of the suspects is currently unknown.

and died in a neighbor’s yard.

After the deer died, the man dragged it away on a tarp.

One neighbor said that they did not want the man to come back and clean the blood from their yard.

Police issued the man a warning about the city ordinance and safety concerns from neighbors.

Woman thwarts scam seeking bond money JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 13 that someone had impersonated her granddaughter and a New York police officer in a phone call to obtain money.

The woman said she received a call from an unknown number from a man who said he was a police officer in New York. He claimed that the woman’s granddaughter had been arrested for her involvement in a car accident.

An unknown woman then came on the phone, pretending to be the woman’s granddaughter.

The woman told the callers that her granddaughter is under 10 years old.

She said this “confused” the callers, but they insisted that her granddaughter’s attorney would call to arrange bond. No exact dollar amount was requested.

When the woman called her son to check on her granddaughter, he confirmed that the granddaughter was safe at home. The woman did not receive any additional calls.

Home ransacked during gym visit ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 13 that her apartment had been burglarized during her hour-long trip to the gym. The woman had left her apartment on Masters Way around noon, and when she returned, she saw that the back patio door had been forced open.

Close to $7,000 worth of items were missing from the apartment. Some of the missing items included $3,000

worth of assorted jewelry, a laptop, a television, a Nikon DSLR camera and a spare key to the woman’s car.

Employee gives away merchandise for free ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A woman was arrested Dec. 13 for giving away $1,700 worth of store merchandise to a friend while working at the Victoria’s Secret in North Point Mall.

A loss prevention representative contacted police when he became suspicious of the employee. After investigating, he later found video surveillance footage of the employee providing multiple items of clothing to a friend free of charge.

The employee told police that she would ring up discounts for the friend that would make the clothing free. She did so on three separate occasions through November and December.

She was arrested for theft by taking greater than $1,500.

Two cars burglarized at Caney Creek Preserve FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Two cars were burglarized Dec. 10 while parked at Caney Creek Preserve.

One woman said a purse that had been on the front seat of her Mercedes was stolen. She said she went running in the parking lot around 2:15 p.m.

When she returned, her driver side rear window was smashed out. Nothing else appeared stolen.

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 3

Milan Eye Center Opens Alpharetta Location Milan Eye Center, a premier ophthalmology practice with five locations in the North Atlanta suburbs, will open a new clinic and ambulatory surgery center in Alpharetta on January 8, 2018.

With six ophthalmologists and five optometrists on staff, Milan Eye Center offers a full scope of diagnostic testing and treatment. At their new, state-of-the-art facility, they will offer their full range of surgical services, including cataract surgery, LASIK, lens replacement surgery, corneal transplants, and oculoplastics. They will also provide their full range of comprehensive eye care services, including the management of glaucoma and diabetic eye.

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Milan Eye Center’s Alpharetta Location Opening January 8, 2018 Just Minutes from Avalon

“Our goal in opening this new facility is to better serve our patients,” said Milan Eye Center Operations Manager, Janak Pandya. “By having clinics in a variety of locations, patients can choose to have their appointment in the location that is most convenient for them.”

Milan Eye Center’s other clinics are in Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, Buford, and Marietta. Additionally, the practice is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals, including Emory Johns Creek Hospital and Northside Hospital. While the new facility will be similar to the practice’s other locations, the Alpharetta clinic and surgery center will house a few additional state-of-the art features.

“We think patients will be very pleased with the new facility,” said Dr. Milan Patel, the practice’s founder. “It was designed with the patient experience as a top priority.”

In addition to the top-notch facility, Milan Eye Center also prides itself on their new clinic’s prime location, just minutes from Avalon. This location makes it easy for patients to run errands before or after their appointments.

To learn more about Milan Eye Center, you can visit their website, milaneyecenter.com, or find them on Facebook. To schedule an appointment, please call 678-381-2020.

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NEWS

4 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Homeowners step up to the plate and pay taxes early Early payments allow Fulton Schools to make December payday

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com

NORTH FULTON, Ga. — It will be a merrier Christmas for employees of the Fulton County School System who will get paid a week ahead of schedule, thanks to early tax payments by Fulton County homeowners.

Although property tax bills for Fulton County are not due until mid-January – three months later than usual – a higher than expected number of tax payments have already flowed in to the Tax Commissioner’s office well before the deadline.

“Tax receipts from the Fulton County Tax Commissioner’s Office... amounted to more than $84 million through December 15, giving the school district enough funds to issue employee paychecks on December 22, a week earlier than previously announced,” said a spokesperson for Fulton Schools.

Payroll for the school system, including benefits, is approximately $70 million a month for the district’s 14,000 employees.

Fulton Schools expects the re-

We are enormously grateful to our school board for their years of fiscal responsibility, which gave us $295 million in healthy cash reserves that sustained us through the property tax crisis.”

DR. JEFF ROSE Fulton Superintendent maining receipts to continue to come in through the January 15 deadline, putting the system in good financial shape for the remaining months of the school year.

The delay in tax bills started with a decision by the Fulton County Commission in June to freeze 2017 home values at the 2016 level in response to homeowner complaints of inflated home values. But the Georgia Department of Revenue rejected the tax digest, citing a number of legal problems, primarily focused on commercial property owners not receiving the same benefit.

SPECIAL

Milton’s coed cheer team was honored for their first state championship win in November.

It took a court order to allow Fulton County to send out tax bills while the issue is sorted out; leading to the delay in payments.

The early surge in payments was attributed in part to Fulton County officials who embarked on a public service campaign aimed at property owners and mortgage companies to pay the tax bills before the due date.

They stressed the early payments would allow governments to continue providing services as normal and pay employees.

Fulton Schools tied their belts tight

in October, halting new hires and most spending and placing a moratorium on out-of-system travel and student field trips.

Healthy reserves held by the school system allowed it to avoid furloughing employees – which City of Atlanta Schools faced.

Even with the spending freeze, Fulton School officials were uncertain if the Dec. 22 payday could be met.

But the response to the early payment request, along with the fiscal health of the school system, pulled the system through.

“We are enormously grateful to our school board for their years of fiscal responsibility, which gave us $295 million in healthy cash reserves that sustained us through the property tax crisis,” said Fulton Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose.

The county may have also benefited from the recently passed tax reform legislation which limits local property tax deductions to $10,000 annually.

For homeowners who wait until after the first of the year, they will likely pay two tax bills in 2018 — both the 2017 and the 2018 bills – potentially pushing them over the threshold of available deductions.

SPECIAL

Milton and Cambridge’s cross-country teams were recognized for the state championships.

City recognizes Milton,Cambridge athletes MILTON, Ga. — Milton and Cambridge student athletes were honored at the Dec. 18 City Council meeting for their recent successes in state championship competition.

The Milton coed cheer team was recognized for winning the 7A coed cheer state championship Nov. 10. It was the first state championship for the program.

Each of the 18-member team, as well as coaches Melissa and Alex Marsh, received a proclamation honoring their achievement.

The city also declared Dec. 18 as Milton and Cambridge Cross-Country Appreciation Day for the teams’ successes at the state championship meet in November.

The Cambridge boys and girls team swept the Class 6A state title, the first championship for each program.

The Milton boys won their first state title in Class 7A while the girls team matched their best state championship meet performance with a third-place finish.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 5

If you’re celebrating with fireworks, please be careful, always be fire-aware and be courteous of your neighbors.

And don’t forget these important state and local fireworks restrictions: • State law permits fireworks use on Dec. 31 up until midnight and into Jan. 1 ending at 1:00AM. • Milton’s new noise ordinance prohibits fireworks use from 1:01AM to 10:00AM on the Jan. 1 holiday and 9:01PM until 10:00AM on a normal day.

• No fireworks may be used in/on a public road.

• No fireworks within 100 yards of: gas station/fuel tank, electric substation, hospital, nursing home or other health care facility, or within county/city park, historic site, recreational area or other public property without a permit.

• No fireworks may be used while under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

Milton residents can call 911 to report a violation of any of the above restrictions. Keep in mind that residents in adjacent cities/counties do not have to adhere to Milton’s local noise ordinance regarding fireworks.

Special Message from Milton Equestrian Committee

Wishing all our residents a happy, healthy and safe New Year

If you have neighbors with equine or other livestock, sensitive pets or your neighbor is a military veteran, please reconsider personal fireworks use, and at a minimum notify your neighbors of your personal plan for fireworks. Notifying neighbors helps everyone better prepare for the noise and helps ensure the health and safety of large animals.

6 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

YEAR IN REVIEW

Story of the year: Tax revolt throws governments for a loop

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com.

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Thousands of Fulton County residents turned out for public meetings in May to wage war against revised property assessments that increased home values by as much as 50 percent for a quarter of the homeowners.

In a series of public forums, which included county, city and state leaders, residents complained not only of spikes in their property values but inaccu-

rate descriptions of the homes they owned.

In response to the public outcry, Fulton County Commissioners voted June 21 to rescind the 2017 property tax appraisals established by the Board of Appraisers and place home values back to their 2016 levels.

“Today’s vote was not just a monetary or fiscal matter, it was a moral issue,” Fulton County Commission Chairman John Eaves said. “What we did today was vote to keep seniors from losing their homes; people from having to choose between paying for medicine or tax bills.”

The squabble over assessments delayed the county from establishing a final property digest until late summer. That left cities and the Fulton County School District unable to calculate property taxes on homes until fall. As a result, property tax bills were delayed, leaving some local governments with cash flow problems.

Some cities, like Roswell and Alpharetta that had approved their 2018 budgets before July, had to recalculate their anticipated revenues from property taxes and adjust their spending plans accordingly.

be more visible. A modern audio and video system were put in place for those watching meetings from elsewhere.

The facilities were built to last for decades and provide room for expansion as the city grows.

The building was constructed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards

Greenspace committee formed SPECIAL

Milton hired a new police chief, Rich Austin, in January.

Police Chief sworn in From a pool of over 100 applicants, Milton hired a new police chief, Rich Austin, in January. Austin succeeded former Police Chief and City Manager Steve Krokoff.

Austin arrived with nearly three decades of experience from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in North Carolina. He has experience as both a patrol officer and in administrative roles.

He has since become a staple in the community and has created initiatives, such as hiring and promotion ceremonies for officers.

New City Hall opens Milton cut the ribbon on its new City Hall, a permanent headquarters for the city in Downtown Crabapple in March.

The $11.5 million, 32,000 square foot facility was completed on deadline and on budget in just over four months.

Blending the city’s rural charm with modern workspaces, City Hall includes a main building that houses city staff offices and the City Council chambers, as well as public spaces. The city’s Community Place, pavilion and public restrooms also opened with the town hall.

In addition to more seating, the new council chambers allows city staff to

After passage of the city’s $25 million Greenspace Bond referendum in 2016, the city formed its Greenspace Advisory Committee. The board, comprised of volunteers, was set with the task of acquiring suitable lands for greenspace and creating a criteria for such purchases.

There were deliberations among the City Council whether each seat should be filled by nominations for the council, or, as city staff suggested, a slate vote.

Ultimately the Council approved the seven-member board in one vote in May. The committee has since developed its criteria for land acquisitions and began the push for the city’s purchase of the Milton Country Club.

Free football causes deliberation The Milton Steelers, a youth football provider, began offering free registration for its programs this year, but not before they had to state their case to the city.

The Steelers began advertising in March that they would waive registration costs, but the city said this violated their agreement with the city.

Under the agreement, any changes to the program’s fees must be approved by the city. The Steelers organization stated they were attempting to make the program available to all and pitched that the program would still be viable with outside funding sources.

After going before the Parks and Recreation and Advisory Board, the city

JOE PARKER/HERALD

The new City Hall’s council chambers harkens to the city’s rural character while featuring modern amenities. ultimately approved the contractual changes in April and the program saw an increase in registrations.

Milton loosens alcohol laws In response to requests from local business to expand the city’s alcohol licenses, the city added three new permits to its alcohol ordinances in May. The licenses include an incidental license, BYOB and limited tap.

An incidental license allows local businesses that do not sell food or alcohol to provide up to two glasses of wine or beer per patron per day.

The city’s BYOB license allows establishments to permit customers to bring in beer or wine for consumption on premises.

The limited tap license allows a business to pour up to four types of kegged beer, up to 48 ounces per person per day. In an effort to support local breweries, the beer must come from less than 50 miles from Milton.

In addition to the new licenses, wine merchants were also permitted to pour four, two-ounce samples per day.

Prior to the updated ordinance, these businesses could only conduct a single, two-hour wine tasting per week.

Karen Handel wins historic 6th District race On June 20, Republican Karen Handel secured her place as the next U.S. representative of the 6th District after an intense battle with Democrat Jon Ossoff. The race became widely known as the most expensive Congressional campaign in U.S. history.

Ossoff, a 30-year-old Decatur Democrat in his first political race, drew national attention in his bid to turn the 6th District, a perennially Republican district the last 37 years. He received unprecedented funding from the Democratic Congressional Leadership Fund and other sources, amassing a staggering $8.3 million before the runoff.

Over $50 million total was spent between both candidates before the runoff ended.

Handel eked out her win over Ossoff with 135,000 votes, or 51.9 percent of the nearly 260,000 votes cast.

In total, 58 percent of registered voters in the district participated in the election.

Handel said she is proud to be the first Republican woman elected to this seat by Georgians.

Ossoff released a statement on the results saying “for months, this community in Georgia has been a beacon

YEAR IN REVIEW

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 7

After opening in 2016 following a decades long closure, Milton is looking to the future of Providence Park with its master plan. of hope for people across the country.”

He said it’s “extraordinary” what the community achieved, by mounting an “unprecedented grassroots effort powered by more than 12,000 volunteers.

Milton, Alpharetta purchase joint park space In a 50/50 deal with Alpharetta, the city purchased 12 acres of greenspace in August that will be used for a joint park space shared between the two municipalities.

The site of the future park is along Mayfield Road between Harrington Road and Bethany Road.

Each city spent $750,000 on two of the three parcels, with 1.73 acres donated by the landowners.

It may be late 2018 before the cities can move forward with developing the space as a park. Included in the purchase was an addendum that the residents may live on the site, which includes two homes, for up to 12 months after the closing date. The contract included a provision allowing residents to live on the property, without being charged rent or local taxes, during that time.

Residents will still be responsible for maintaining the property and paying all utilities.

Redistricting issue comes to light Councilwoman Karen Thurman came under fire from residents after a

citizen complaint and article in Appen Media’s Blackbox revealed Thurman requested lines of her district be redrawn without presenting the issue before residents in a public meeting.

The redistricting occurred in 2015 after Thurman contacted Georgia House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones requesting that a portion of District 1 be extended north to include a property she had purchased and later resided.

Before introducing the legislation to the state, Jones’ administrative assistant asked for letters of support from the City Council.

In an email, Jones stated she didn’t “want to get in the middle of something that there might not be a consensus on.” Though members of the City Council were made aware of Thruman’s request, only Bill Lusk wrote a letter.

The issue was never added to a Council agenda or discussed in an open meeting.

Following the article, Thurman took the opportunity during a City Council work session to deny any wrongdoing.

However, residents at the meeting took issue with her statements, going so far as booing.

Thurman has continued to deny any wrongdoing during open meetings when the issue has been raised.

City looks to the future Four major initiatives were close to finalization near the end of the year.

The city’s tree ordinance, trails master plan, Providence Park master plan and the incentivizing of large lots are all in the works.

Milton’s original tree ordinance was inherited from Fulton County with minor changes following the city’s incorporation. As proposed, the new ordinance measures tree coverage by its eventual canopy, rather than density, and aims to be easier for residents, builders and tree companies to understand.

The trails master plan outlined three major trails in the city, the Crabapple Loop, Central Milton trails and Deerfield Connectors. In all, the plan outlines 52 miles of greenspace, equestrian, sidewalk and gravel road trails and potential connections to neighboring trails, such as the Big Creek Greenway.

Deliberations are still ongoing for how the city will incentive developers to create large lots, but the push aims to maintain the city’s rural character while still allowing for the addition of homes.

The Providence Park master plan aims to create a blueprint for the park, which had for 10 years been shut down for environmental cleanup. Residents

PAULINA OSENENKO/HERALD

weighed-in on their desires for the park in the fall. An initial plan is set to be presented to residents in the coming weeks.

Two new council members elected The Nov. 7 general election saw Milton’s only mayor retain his seat, while two new council members were elected. About 22 percent of the city’s registered voters cast ballots in the election.

Mayor Joe LockBENTLEY wood captured 66 percent of the vote over challenger Laura Rencher and will serve a fourth term.

Councilman Bill Lusk, who has served on the Council since the city’s incorporation, was defeated in his re-election bid by JAMISON Equestrian Committee chair Laura Bentley.

Bentley secured 71 percent of the vote over the long-standing incumbent in the District 2, Post 1 race.

District 1, Post 1 was left open by Karen Thurman’s August announcement that she would not seek another term. That vacancy was filled in the election by Planning Commission chair Peyton Jamison who ran uncontested.

Joe Longoria retained his seat on District 3, Post 1 after running uncontested.

8 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

YEAR IN REVIEW

Sports story of the year: Rivals battle for state title

The stakes are always high in contests between crosstown rivals, but no higher than a state championship contest.

And in May, Cambridge and Milton met with the 6A-7A girls lacrosse state title on the line.

The game featured the seasoned championship veterans of Milton versus the greenhorn Bears. Milton made their 13th straight state championship appearance in the game, while Cambridge was vying for its first state title.

Ultimately, Milton continued its dominance with a 13-4 win over championship newcomer Cambridge, which compiled its winningest season in program history with a state runner-up finish.

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Milton has won 11 state championships in the 13 years the GHSA has recognized girls lacrosse as a state championship sport.

BT football wins first state championship Blessed Trinity earned its second state championship appearance in three years and downed Marist to capture the 4A state championship Dec. 16.

BT compiled an incredible playoff run, beating four teams ranked in the top-five, including two-time defending state champions Cartersville, 2016 state runner up Thomson, Region 2-AAAA champions Mary Persons and previously undefeated Marist. Those four wins all came with BT on the road.

The Titans’ defense allowed just ninepoints per game in the playoffs.

The championship game, which was originally scheduled for Dec. 9 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, was postponed due to icy road conditions and played at Marist the following week.

BT’s state championship appearance was the fifth by a team from Roswell in three years (BT in 2015 and 2017, Roswell in 2015 and 2016 and Fellowship Christian in 2016).

St. Francis basketball All-Americans St. Francis basketball had two standouts named McDonald’s All-Americans, the second straight year the school has had a player earn the honor.

St. Francis students and basketball standouts Maya Dodson and Kasiyahna Kushkituah were both named McDonald’s All-Americans in January, the only teammates in the country to be selected for the game.

Dodson and Kushkituah played in the All-American game in Chicago’s United Center after finishing their St. Francis careers with a trip to the final-four of the state playoffs in the 2016-17 season.

Since their graduation, both have continued their careers with elite programs at the collegiate level. Dodson is playing for Stanford while Kushkituah is with the Lady Vols of Tennessee.

phis Grizzlies. He is averaging over 32 minutes and 16 points per game with the Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies’ G League affiliate.

Simmons made his NBA debut Nov. 29 with two points and five minutes played.

Cambridge pitcher earns state honor JOE PARKER/HERALD

Milton placed second in Region 5-AAAAAAA and reached the second round of the playoffs under its new head coach in the 2017 season.

Milton basketball wins region title It was a turbulent 2016-17 season for Milton basketball, including an inauspicious start and a midseason coaching change. Despite this, the Eagles found their rhythm down the stretch entering the region tournament, led by Duke-commit Alex O’ Connell and a surrounding cast of talent.

After the trials of the early season, Milton found its rhythm, eventually reaching the region tournament championship game. Milton battled with top-seed Lambert and led throughout to win their first region title since 2008.

Interim head coach Sean Revels was eventually replaced by former Etowah head coach Allen Whitehart who leads the program in the 2017-18 season.

Cambridge girls athletics best in state Not long after its girls tennis team had captured their second state championship, Cambridge’s girls athletics program was named the best in the state in 6A by winning the Director’s Cup. The award, which recognizes athletic proficiency across all sports, was

earned by Cambridge’s two state titles in softball and tennis and its state runner-up finishes in cheerleading and lacrosse. Points were also earned for the Bears’ soccer and volleyball teams which both reached the semifinals, and a fourth-place finish by the cross country team. The Cup win was the first for the school.

Milton area grads go pro Two graduates from Milton area schools joined the professional ranks in 2017 in the NBA and NFL. Milton grad Carl Lawson was selected 116th overall in the NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals after foregoing his senior season at Auburn.

Lawson is already making noise in his rookie season with 12 total tackles and 7.5 sacks in his first 12 games.

Simmons declared for the NBA draft after his freshman season at the University of Arizona. Though he went undrafted, Simmons signed a two-way contract with the Mem-

Cambridge softball pitcher Keara Napoli was named the Gatorade Girls Player of the Year in June. The award honored Napoli as the most outstanding player in the state for the 2016-17 season. Napoli was instrumental in the Bears winning their first state championship that season.

Napoli went 32-1 during the season, striking out 249 batters. She compiled a 0.58 ERA with Cambridge allowing just 37 runs in 36 games.

Napoli is continuing her softball career at the University of Georgia.

Milton football thrives under new leadership After head coach Howie DeCristofaro stepped down at Milton, the Eagles’ search for a new football coach for the program began. That search ended inside Milton’s own region with the hiring of former West Forsyth head coach, Adam Clack.

Clack, along with a roster of senior talent and youthful standouts, led Milton to one of its most successful seasons in the program’s 68-year history.

Milton compiled a 9-3 record, finishing second in Region 5-AAAAAAA and reached the second round of the state playoffs for the just the second time.

NorthFulton.com/BlackBox | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 9

BLACK BOX YEAR IN REVIEW:

Black Box makes mark in probing local issues We launched the investigative journalism arm of our company, Black Box, at the start of this year.

Investigative journalism does not play a traditional role in small comHANS APPEN munity newspaper General Manager hans@appenmediagroup.com newsrooms. This type of work is usually reserved for large daily newspapers and cable broadcasts.

However, many such organizations miss out on a lot of the stories that, while important to a local community, just don’t affect the larger target audience they serve.

Our goal is to fill that void, and dive deeper into the stories we have been telling for decades. We want to uncover the truth and give our readers the story behind the story.

We divide our work into projects because some cannot be told in one article, and many require enormous amounts of research and time to get all the facts needed to paint the whole picture for our readers.

Below is a short summary of some of our 2017 projects.

Journalism Under Attack: Georgia This has been by far our most extensive project with over 20,000 words written over 11 different parts.

Unfortunately, we have seen an onslaught of troubling attacks on the media this year. A component of this project is to remind people why journalism, and the First Amendment, is so critical to our democracy.

In 2017, we told the stories of the Pentagon Papers and Watergate, and how they have changed the news industry forever.

We told the life stories of citizen journalists and the ever-changing way in which people consume the news.

We explained what rights the public has to government information and how to obtain it.

We told the stories of two separate arrests in Georgia and the resulting consequences.

We detailed the ways in which our local governments are and are not transparent to their constituents, and much more.

ment, LexisNexis admitted no liability and denied all claims.

We covered this and continue to monitor all cases of businesses practicing unfair and illegal discrimination among their work forces.

Citizen journalist Nydia Tisdale was featured twice in the Black Box series ‘Journalism Under Attack’. She strives to increase government transparency by attending as many meetings as she can and recording them. This month she was acquitted of a felony obstruction of justice charge.

I want to thank the many journalists who helped with this project, including Jim Zachary, Nydia Tisdale, Vince Johnson, Jessica Szilagyi, Abdulhamit Bilici, Jim Walls, Brian Pritchard, Bill Simon, Georgia Press general counsel David Hudson, and our staff reporters Hatcher Hurd, Pat Fox, Joe Parker, Kathleen Sturgeon and Julia Grochowski Quite simply, without our coverage, some of the below projects would not have been covered – by anyone – which means our readers would still be in the dark.

Invisible in the ‘burbs Kathleen Sturgeon spearheaded this project, and I think it is really important work.

There is a large and unfortunately growing homeless population in our community that largely goes under the radar. Our goal is to tell their stories and give our readers not only a better understanding of why an area as affluent as ours is not immune to homelessness, but give them the tools to do what they can to help.

Organizations like The Drake House and North Fulton Community Charities have been champions of this cause and have also been instrumental in helping us with this project.

Fulton County School District lost out on potential $1.5M tax windfall After a disagreement over taxes owed between the city of Alpharetta and North American Properties, then owners of the mega-development Avalon,

the City of Alpharetta was able to keep an additional $370,000 in tax revenue it would not have received had they chosen not to fight for it.

Our reporting discovered that the Fulton County School System and Fulton County made little to no effort to collect its owed taxes, even after nudges from Alpharetta to join them in the fight. As such, they missed out on about $1.5 million in additional tax dollars.

Surprisingly, despite a dramatic increase in readership, we were underwhelmed with a lack of response from the community to our reporting. In hindsight, I suspect it is in part because, while we stated clearly the facts of the case, we didn’t provide our readers with actionable steps to encourage their elected officials to take action.

I read an interesting piece recently about how journalism can no longer just point out the problem, but are now expected to offer solutions as well.

Fair, reasonable, or otherwise – that is a commitment I plan to make to our readers as we enter 2018.

LexisNexis to pay $1.2M after pay discrimination investigation LexisNexis is large Alpharetta based company with millions of dollars in contracts with government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security, Justice, Transportation and Labor.

It had been accused of systematic pay discrimination against women, which it settled to the tune of $1.2 million distributed among 211 employees.

As part of the conciliation agree-

Group questions motives behind Milton redistricting Some stories are impactful not because of the initial facts, but because of processes or public reaction.

This story centered around Milton Councilwoman Karen Thurman, and an allegation that she had her district redrawn to encompass a piece of property her family had purchased, and did so without properly giving the public notice.

Public reaction to this story was loud and divided among those who felt the act was done intentionally to avoid public discussion, and those who did not.

A key principle of our team’s mission is to bring to light stories that are in the dark, and our team decided it was important to give the public the information and let them decide its relevancy.

After our story broke, Councilwoman Thurman declined to run for re-election at the end of her term.

What’s next for Black Box? We plan to take a big step forward in the quality and frequency of our projects next year. Like many other news organizations that saw readership soar in 2017, our readership both online and in print is up nearly 30 percent.

As such, we will be budgeting for additional resources to meet demand and have applied for various grants available for projects like this across the country. We have also participated in additional training from organizations like the George Press Association and the Georgia First Amendment Foundation.

Starting in 2018 Black Box will be available as a podcast, which will help us tell some of these stories through an even more in depth and personal outlet.

We will also be creating more video content to supplement our articles, and are in discussions to create a documentary on one or more of our projects.

It has been a fantastic first year for Black Box and we are looking forward to year two. Thank you for the support and keep sending us tips!

10 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Community celebrates life of local theater legend Georgia Ensemble Theatre co-founder Bob Farley passes

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Few people can say that they inspired and touched as many people as Robert “Bob” J. Farley, co-founder of the Georgia Ensemble Theatre. And on Dec. 18, hundreds packed the Roswell Cultural Arts Center to celebrate Farley’s life and to remember just how influential he continues to be.

Farley, 69, unexpectedly passed away Nov. 30, less than a month after he and his wife Anita had accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2017 Suzie Bass Awards.

“We all love you – miss you forever, love you forever,” said Paul Brown, who knew the Farley for over 40 years. “The sadness we feel is overpowered by the gratitude that we all feel for having met this extraordinary man.”

Farley had a lifelong career in a theater, starting with the Pasadena Playhouse before moving on to the Alliance Theatre and Alaska Repertory Theatre. Once he settled in the Atlanta area, Farley helped co-found the Geor-

gia Ensemble Theatre in 1992 and led it for 25 years.

“Bob was a passionate leader, a committed artist, a person of many talents and interests, and most importantly, a much-beloved husband, father, and grandfather,” the Georgia Ensemble Theatre said in a statement.

“His leadership and influence were truly something special.”

Close friends and family of Farley spoke at the celebration, sharing stories of how they met him and sharing memories of working and living with him. A medley of some of the theater’s greatest hits and some of Farley’s songs were performed live between speakers. The entire celebration of Farley’s life was livestreamed on the Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s Facebook page, facebook. com/GeorgiaEnsembleTheatre/.

“When a bit worked, when we pulled it off, and made a show work, no one was happier for you than Bob,” Maclare “MC” Park said. “And it wasn’t that you made his show work, it was that you improved your skills, that you were better.”

For many of the speakers, Farley’s

memory was closely tied with the Georgia Ensemble Theatre and introducing people to the world of theater.

“Bob Farley changed lives,” Bob Hagan said. “Bob Farley made a difference in many people’s lives. Bob Farley not only made a difference in the community here in Roswell, he made a difference in the whole theater community. The Roswell community has been so fortunate to have the influence of Bob Farley in creating such a fabulous venue for the performing arts… Your legacy will continue.”

“For a nonprofit theater to last for as long as it has in this environment, this world, after 25 years, I would say it’s a miracle, but it’s not,” said Rob Cleveland, who did fundraisers and standup for Farley. “It’s because of Bob, and Anita, and the people. The ensemble…Which means all of us.”

In lieu of flowers, the Georgia Ensemble Theatre is asking for donations to the Robert J. Farley Memorial Fund at get.org.

“It’s the end of an era, and I know for a lot of us, it’s the end of a chapter in the book of all our lives,” said James

SPECIAL

Robert “Bob” J. Farley, who recently passed away, was widely known in the surrounding Atlanta and theater communities for his passion and influence in the arts.

Donadio. “But I can just feel Farley standing next to me, leaning over and whispering in my ear, ‘Jimmy, just turn the page. Let’s see what’s next.’”

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12 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Foundation honors memory of Centennial lacrosse player Live for Jamie donates lacrosse practice wall

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Founded after the tragic death of a Haynes Bridge Middle School student and lacrosse player Jamie McHenry, a local organization is giving back to the sports community.

Earlier this month, the Live for Jamie foundation donated a lacrosse “bounceback” wall for the school’s lacrosse programs in its continued efforts to honor the sports-crazed athlete.

“We though what better way to honor him than to give back to the local sports community that he loved so much,” Jim McHenry, Jamie’s father said. “It meant a great deal to him.”

McHenry called his son “a dad’s dream.”

“He was well liked, fun loving and always had a twinkle in his eye like he was up to something. A lot of times he was,” he said. “And he loved sports, everything about them. He couldn’t stay up to watch a lot of the late games like Monday Night Football, so he would record them and watch them the next day before school.”

He wanted to go the University of Florida and major in sports management.”

Before he had the chance, Jamie’s life was cut short while on vacation with a friend’s family in 2013. He was struck by a car while crossing the street.

McHenry and his wife, Christine, said following Jamie’s passing they looked for a way to make sense of the situation.

“We aimed to somehow try and turn a horrible tragedy into something good,” McHenry said.

The foundation was created the fall following Jamie’s death, and a year later the RocketShot 5K was created to raise funds. The run takes its name from Jamie’s lacrosse moniker — rocket shot — for his quick and powerful lacrosse shooting ability.

The event drew over 500 runners the first year and has funded the organization’s efforts the past four years.

Those endeavors include multiple improvement projects to local lacrosse facilities, the creation of a team in Jamie’s honor and scholarships for student-athletes.

At the end of each school year, students at Hillside Elementary and Haynes Bridge Middle are awarded scholarship by the foundation. The

LIVEFORJAMIE

The Live for Jamie foundation honors the life of Jamie McHenry with projects benefitting the local sports community.

recipients are chosen by their peers and teachers based on the student’s character.

Live for Jamie also backed the new $20,000 entrance gate at Centennial’s stadium which was dedicated on Jamie’s birthday in 2016.

On Dec. 7, the organization held a dedication for a lacrosse practice wall at Centennial. The brick structure replaces the wooden wall that was in disrepair. A mural will soon be painted on the wall that includes the new Centennial lacrosse logo and goals.

The foundation’s Team 8, also recently won the Reindeer Games lacrosse tournament, beating out Lassiter, the 2016 state champions, for the tournament title.

Team 8, named after Jamie’s lacrosse number, is led by Jamie’s former coach, Frank Cecere. The team was formed with the motto, “We play for something more,” with players picked

by Cecere for their character in addition to abilities on the field. Every player’s jersey number contains the number eight, with Jamie’s on the sideline during each game.

Over four years after his passing, the McHenry family is still dealing with Jamie’s passing, but hopes their foundation will shine a light from his tragic passing.

“Some of it is just a distraction,” McHenry said. “But it makes us feel like we are still taking care of him.”

For more information about Live for Jamie, visit www.liveforjamie.com.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 13

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14 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Alpharetta All-American commits to South Carolina Cornerback Jaycee Horn originally committed to Tennessee

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta standout cornerback Jaycee Horn announced last week he will continue his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina after de-committing from Tennessee.

“I feel most comfortable at this university and I feel like this is the best place for me,” Horn said on Twitter.

Ranked 142nd nationally in ESPN’s top-300 for the class of 2018, Horn was named an Under Armour All-American in September.

During his 2017 senior campaign, Horn compiled 44 total tackles (38 solo, 6 assists) with five interceptions and 12 passes defended, splitting his playing time between corner and safety. He also added 147 all-purpose yards and a touchdown reception. The Raiders reached the quarterfinals of the state playoffs for the first time in program

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Horn committed to Tennessee in August, but de-committed in November.

He thanked then Volunteers’ head coach Butch Jones, the UT coaching staff and fans, in a statement on Twitter.

“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve made, but ultimately I have to make the best decision for me,” the statement said.

Horn chose Tennessee over the Gamecocks and Alabama in August, but made an official visit to South Carolina earlier this month.

He announced his commitment Dec. 18.

“I want to start by thanking my family, coaches, close friend and everyone who supported me in this decision,” he said on Twitter. “I want to thank my family for believing me when no one else believed. I want to thank my coaches for taking me into Alpharetta and developing me. I want to thank my teammates for helping me get better every day and molding me into the player I am today.”

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This has been a long process and I gained great relationships with a lot of coaches. With that said, on Dec. 20 I will be signing with the University of South Carolina.”

JAYCEE HORN Alpharetta Raiders cornerback

I gained great relationships with a lot of coaches. With that said, on Dec. 20 I will be signing with the University of South Carolina,” the statement said.

Horn will compete at the Under Armour All-America game Jan. 4 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

SPECIAL

Jaycee Horn recently announced his commitment to the University of South Carolina. Ranked in ESPN’s top-300 for the Class of 2018, Horn will compete in the Under Armour All-America game next week.

COMMUNITY

Widened section of Ga. 400 southbound open CUMMING, Ga. — The long awaited widening of Ga. 400 southbound opened Dec. 22 just in time for holiday traveling.

The newly widened portion will open between Ga. 141 and McFarland Parkway.

The four miles of widening began in May 2017. Construction will continue widening Ga. 400 from Ga. 369/ Browns Bridge Road to Ga. 141/ Peachtree Parkway, weather permitting that section will open to traffic in late spring 2018.

The widening and reconstruction of Ga. 400 was awarded to C.W. Matthews Contracting Co., Inc. in April 2015. The project completion is scheduled for fall of 2018 and is currently on schedule.

The project adds an additional lane in each direction on Ga. 400 from McFarland Road to Ga. 369. Bridges over Big Creek and the Sawnee Creek portion of Lake Lanier will be widened.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 15

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Milton launches Citizens Government Academy MILTON, Ga. — Milton will soon begin its Citizens Government Academy, a seven-week course providing an in-depth look at the many functions of municipal government. Classes will meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 16, 2018. Meetings will be held at City Hall and various government buildings in Milton, allowing participants to fully experience all city facilities.

Through a combination of presentations and hands-on projects, participants will learn about vital community services including emergency services, law enforcement, planning and zoning, finance and budget, court systems, public works, special projects, parks and recreation and more.

Participants will have the opportunity to connect with their local officials and city staff who provide these services. Weekly instructors will vary depending upon the city service or department being covered that week.

The inaugural class will be limited to 15 participants, who must be at least 21 years old and a Milton resident or business owner.

After the inaugural class has been filled, additional applications will begin filling the second cohort tentatively scheduled to launch on or about May 1, 2018.

To learn more about the CGA and to submit your application, visit the city’s website www.cityofmiltonga.us.

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16 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Northern Ridge District announces new Eagle Scouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, recently announced its newest Eagle Scouts. These Scouts all passed their Board of Review on Oct. 26 at the Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Omar Kayyali of Troop 431, sponsored by Roswell United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of a 220 foot mulched pathway for students to use for fire drills/escape route at Fulton Science Academy.

Avery Hellen of Troop 841, sponsored by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, designed and constructed an outdoor learning center, which consisted of 10 benches and a podium for the Archibald Smith Plantation Home.

Praneet Ramakrishnan, of Troop 841, was sponsored

by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of a performance of six picnic tables and landscaping for the outdoor area located at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.

Andrew Ford of Troop 429, sponsored by Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a four wooden gabled dog houses for Fair Oaks Mobile Park.

Derek Rehberger of Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and creation of a new Rabbit Hutch for Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Ojas Nadkarni of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a wooden fence on a trail

EAGLE SCOUTS/SPECIAL

In the top row, from left, stand new Eagle Scouts Omar Kayyali, Avery Hellen, Praneet Ramakrishnan and Andrew Ford. In the bottom row, from left, are Derek Rehberger, Ojas Nadkarni, Nathan Hillman and Michael Schneiderman. at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Nathan Hillman, of Troop 2143, was sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the planting of 50 junipers for erosion control and the construction of two benches for Bald Ridge Lodge, an organization that helps boys ages 12-21 with fractured families.

Michael Schneiderman, of Troop 1818, was sponsored by the North Metro office of the Marcus Jewish Community Center. His project was the design and construction a walking path to a seating area for the natural woods located at Newton Park Dog Park. This project included the creation of a seating area complete with three wooden benches.

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A second car suffered the same fate about the same time. The owner of a Chrysler Town and Country said a purse was stolen from his car as his wife and his mother had left it in the lot. The front passenger side door glass was shattered. Nothing else appeared to be missing. A second purse in the back was untouched.

The two cars were parked near each other. Police could not lift fingerprints from the vehicles.

Christmas decorations stolen from couple’s yard FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A couple encountered a Grinch this holiday season after two of their decorations were stolen from their yard.

The wife said she had two projectors, one that displayed a snow globe onto the house that cost $20 and a second that displayed a reindeer with the message “Merry Christmas” valued at $8, that were stolen. She had seen the decorations that morning but noticed they were missing when her husband went outside to plug them in.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 17

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Let Us Connect You Alpharetta-Roswell Herald Delivers to 28,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30005, 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076. Alpharetta & Roswell’s primary news source. Est. 1983.

Alpharetta’s paper of record.

Johns Creek Herald Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record.

Northside Woman 18,000 copies distributed monthly to subdivisions and business in North Fulton and South Forsyth with home delivery to 40+ of the most exclusive gated and estate communities in North Atlanta.

Forsyth Herald Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30040, 30041.

Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Milton Herald Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006.

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YEAR IN REVIEW

18 | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017

Business story of the year: City Center Phase 2 begins construction ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Work began in late March on the second phase of Alpharetta’s $85 million City Center project, a mixed-use complex that will include close to a dozen new restaurants, between 20-30 boutique shops and close to 200 apartment residences and homes and an office building.

At the March 23 groundbreaking ceremony, Ed Brown, president of DataScan, a technology finance service company, announced his firm will be the sole tenant at the new four-story office building on the property.

The company has 150 local employees and will move its offices from Forsyth County to occupy the new building.

– Patrick Fox

PATRICK FOX/HERALD

The Alpharetta City Center will include close to a dozen restaurants, between 20-30 boutique shops and close to 200 apartment residences and homes and an office building.

Future development plan approved for Crabapple

Fuqua mixed-use project OKed by Roswell

Details emerge on makeup of Halcyon development

MILTON, Ga. – In May, Milton approved a guiding document for the future of one of its most valuable assets, the Downtown Crabapple area, with the approval of its Placemaking Plan.

The plan outlines potential uses for residential, mixed-use, commercial and park spaces in the area. It also outlines potential traffic mitigation initiatives, such as a roundabout at Birmingham Highway and Crabapple Road and the Charlotte Drive extension.

Parking issues were also addressed in the blueprint, with planners TSW outlining three possible solutions.

The plan was drawn up to focus on connectivity and walkability, as well as providing greenspace.

Mayor Joe Lockwood said the Placemaking Plan is not a finalized plan for the future of the Downtown Crabapple.

However, it will be used as a guide for future development of the area.

– Joe Parker

ROSWELL, Ga. – The Roswell City Council voted May 8 to allow Fuqua Development conditional use for apartments as part of its plans to redevelop Roswell Exchange Shopping Center.

The proposed mixed-use project will sit on 18 acres at Alpharetta Highway and Sun Valley Drive and will redevelop what Jeff Fuqua calls the “old and stressed” Roswell Exchange Shopping Center, just north of Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. Plans call for a 115,000-square-foot, mixed-use development with new grocery stores, retail and 300 apartments. The area is the “heaviest commercial corridor” in Roswell, according to Bradford Townsend, director of planning and zoning.

The designs shown at the council meeting for the development are still conceptual, and Fuqua said that the recently granted conditional use was a determining factor in the plans.

– Julia Grochowski

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – Forsyth County’s very own mixed-use development, Halcyon, is well on its way to opening in 2018.

At 70 percent leased, the $370 million project off Exit 12 on Ga. 400 has already announced big name businesses set to open shops. They include Cherry Street Brewing which will open a second location.

In May, details emerged about Elan Halcyon, a 300-unit luxury apartment community adjacent to the restaurant village. The development will also include 11,000 square feet of groundfloor retail. Amenities include a stateof-the-art fitness studio, resort-style pool, aqua lounge and internet cafe.

Halcyon Active Adult is a 55+ active adult rental community and will include 160 residences. The community will feature 12,000 square feet of resort-inspired amenities.

In total, Halcyon will include more

than 500,000 square feet of office and retail space, a high-end movie theater, two hotels and 690 residential units.

– Kathleen Sturgeon

Alcon announces plans for $97 million expansion JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Gov. Nathan Deal was on hand to cut the ribbon Nov. 9 for a $97 million expansion of Alcon, Johns Creek’s leading eye care manufacturing company and a division of Novartis.

This is the third phase of a multiyear project to expand Alcon’s production capacity.

This expansion will increase the production capacity for the ultra-thin daily contacts line and is in response to the growing global demand for the lenses.

The company has created 550 jobs in the city since 2013. With the expansion of the facility, Alcon will phase in between 50 and 100 new high-tech manufacturing jobs.

– Patrick Fox

This is your invitation to the biggest celebration of the year!

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 19

Year of low inventory housing market It’s hard to believe, but after four years of complaining about the low inventory of houses on the market, I am going to declare this year as the year of low inventory.

It was about GEOFF SMITH three or four years Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com ago when I heard Frank Norton, CEO and chairman of the Norton Agency, give a speech titled “What will You Do When Inventory Hits 0?”

The gist of the speech was that inventory of houses was going to keep dropping, not improving. And that if you are in the industry, you’d better prepare for a low-inventory market.

Well, here we are today and inventory levels are still headed toward 0.

Housing inventory is measured by the months it would take for all of the housing currently on the market to get bought up. Economists have declared a healthy number as six months. Any less than that and competition for housing increases which drives up home values too fast. Any more than that and there isn’t enough competition to justify current values, so values start to drop.

Inventory levels for some markets in Atlanta are near two months. That is an all-time low.

The issue right now is that we’ve had more than 90,000 people a year move to Atlanta over the last four years and have averaged around 20,000 new building

permits a year. Homebuilders are having trouble finding land and labor.

Unemployment is low for almost all sectors of the market, especially in the construction industry. That industry lost a lot of labor after the downturn with workers who either moved back to their home countries or changed industries. So builders need more labor to build more houses, but almost everyone that wants to is already working. So they have to depend on workers moving over from other industries to increase their capacity to build more, faster.

It’s also hard for builders to find that large expanse of land where they can build a 500+-home community anywhere close to Atlanta. The land that they are finding is much more expensive than what it was before the downturn. To make a profit, builders are having to build nicer homes or go to the cities and counties and request higher densities. Because of that, many of the newer communities are more expensive with homes starting at $400,000 and going up.

Most of the metro Atlanta area’s houses are priced below $400,000 so you can see why inventory in that market is at historic lows. But if you go over that price-point in most markets, the inventories are actually getting too high. Where buyers are fighting with each other for houses under $400,000 in most markets, they have the pick of the litter in housing priced higher than $500,000 in most markets.

It’s hard to tell what will happen next year. Everyone tries to be optimistic this

time of year. I heard a theory that when salaries increase by 4 percent or more, people start buying houses. And, if that happened in Atlanta, people would start a buying spree because those in under-$400,000 homes would start moving up into $500,000+ homes. I like to think that makes sense. But we’ve been waiting for salaries to jump for a while now.

It’s one of the Federal Reserve’s biggest concerns.

While our economy has been pumping in all sectors, we have not seen a great deal of wage and price growth.

Everyone is guessing as to why, but the most consistent reason I’ve heard is that corporations have to keep prices and wages down to compete with their global competitors. You can’t charge more for your product if Chinese and South Korean companies are charging less. And you can’t pay the workers who build that product more if you can’t charge more for it.

That said, the global economy has been improving at a steady clip. There could be some relief there if foreign companies start improving their wages. Who knows? One thing is for sure: We’ll see.

Have a Happy New Year and let’s have a fantastic 2018!!

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

Belso Home Studio opens in downtown Alpharetta dow treatments, as well as full scale design services, owner Kelly Klafter, together with business partner, Julia Garrahan, bring everything for the home under one roof.

“Belso means interiors,” Klafter said. “The inside – and that is exactly what we focus on, anything clients need for the inside of the home. ” To learn about Belso Home Studio, visit belso-home.com.

NORTHSIDE CHAPEL Approval Expires 08.28.2018

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Belso Home Studio, a new interior design and home furnishings retail boutique in historic downtown Alpharetta, will open its door for business this month.

Belso Home Studio offers furniture and wares for the home.

With an exclusive custom upholstery line out of North Carolina, fabrics from around the world, case goods, win-

Creativity is great, plagiarism is quicker Are you coming to work each day and trying to use your creativity to come up with new ideas to grow your small business? Do you challenge your employees to do DICK JONES the same? Is it Founder & President Jones Simply Sales taking you longer than you thought to develop new strategies or tactics to better run your business? While creativity in small businesses is great, plagiarism may be a quicker option.

Now let me say first and foremost that I am not advocating being unethical or stealing ideas to gain a competitive advantage. What I am saying is that there are plenty of ideas out there that may work well for you, and that learning about them and utilizing them in your small business may be a much faster option.

In small businesses today, speed is of essence in being competitive, opening new markets, attracting more customers, and improving your operations. However, you don’t have to reinvent a wheel that’s already been invented.

If you’re having a problem or encountering a challenge, just Google it. You’ll be surprised that, yes, other small businesses have had this situation. The difference, however, is that someone else has figured out how to address it. Learning from this information can help you more quickly formulate a plan of action.

Some information even provides a step-by-step process.

While there is nothing better than stimulating creativity in your small business, sometimes plagiarism is much, much quicker in getting things done.

Rex T. Grizzle, Owner Locally Owned and Operated 12050 Crabapple Rd. Roswell, GA 30075

FUNERAL DIRECTORS 770-645-1414 info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com and CREMATORY

North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory

20 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR

NEW YEAR’S EVE MENTEE BENEFIT GALA

The Mentee Benefit Gala is a fundraiser for 100 Black Men of North Metro Inc., a nonprofit committed to helping youth strive for intellectual excellence, economic responsibility and selfsufficient contributions to society. The benefit will generate revenue for Mentee Scholarships and to support their mentoring and education initiatives. It will be held Sunday, Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m. at Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta, 5750 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. Individual tickets are $135. For more information and to register, visit northmetro100.org.

By Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman

Jan. 11-28, 2018 This triumphant musical offers a fresh and poignant picture of the woman whose unparalleled talent made her a Hollywood legend. One golden hit after another is woven through Clooney’s compelling life story: “Come on-a My House,” “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” “Count Your Blessings,” “Hey There,” “Mambo Italiano,” and so many more!

Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton.com/Calendar.

HOLIDAY EVENTS: What: Visit Santa’s Village and explore eight displays with lights, trains and animated characters. Donations go to Toys for Tots.

When: Through Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m.

Where: 405 Waverly Hall Drive, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

What: Set off the new year with a healthy start. This is a free class for Tai Chi, a gentle exercise originating from ancient Chinese martial art.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 10:45-11:45 a.m.

Where: Forsyth County Parks & Rec, 810 Nichols Road, Suwanee More info: www.parks.forsythco.com

AVALON ON ICE

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:

SANTA’S VILLAGE IN ROSWELL

What: Ice skate at Avalon on their Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza.

When: Nov. 19-Jan. 21, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: General admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

SANTA AT AVALON

What: Join jolly Old Saint Nick in his cozy cottage at Avalon and take photos.

When: Nov. 19-Dec. 24, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta More info: experienceavalon.com

EVENTS: BOCCE

At the Roswell Cultural Arts Center 950 Forrest St. Roswell

FOR TICKETS: 770.641.1260 GET.ORG

TAI CHI CLASS

What: Join to play bocce, played on an outdoor court where players “bowl” balls to get closest to the smaller target ball.

When: Friday, Dec. 29, 8 a.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov or 678512-3430

PARK PLACE NEW YEAR’S PARTY

What: Everyone is invited to bring an appetizer. There will be games, friendship and watching the ball drop together.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov or 678512-3430

SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY ORCHESTRA 2017

What: A modern Big Band instrumental group with hundreds of arrangements in styles including jazz, swing, Broadway and waltzes.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 3 and 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: Tickets are $25 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: TAMARA BOGGS What: Tamara Y. Boggs is a freelance visual artist residing in metro Atlanta whose mediums are acrylic and oil paint, graphite and charcoal.

When: Through Feb. 12, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

JOYS OF THE SEASON

What: Local artists will display their works in seasonal themes. Some art will be on sale.

When: Through Jan. 16, times vary Where: Roswell Arts Center East, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

LIBRARY EVENTS: SLOW FLOW AND STRETCH YOGA

What: Offered by Lift Studio, the class is a combination of standing and seated poses. No registration necessary. Bring a yoga mat or towel and comfortable clothes.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 10:30-11:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

FAMILY SPANISH STORY TIME

What: Join us for a bilingual story time in English and Spanish.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 4:30-5 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

EVENING ESL CLASS

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: BUTTERPUP & FRIENDS

What: Join for conversational classes.

All levels are welcome.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 6-7:30 p.m.

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

FINE ART FOR A CAUSE

MILTON LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: Miles Davis is an artist, illustrator, and creator raised in the United States Air Force.

When: Through Dec. 29, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com What: Give twice by supporting local artists while donating to relief efforts in Puerto Rico. A portion of each sale will go to United Way. When: Through Dec. 31, times vary Where: Abbotts Bar and Grill, 10900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: northfulton.com

What: Buy new and used books to help fund programs and support the Milton Library.

When: Wednesday, Jan. 3, 3:30-7:30 p.m.

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

CALENDAR

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA:

The money factory (got your attention!)

SAHAJA MEDITATION

What: Learn and practice meditation in a supportive group setting. Meditation, or mindfulness, is one of the emerging health trends of the last few years.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

NEEDLECRAFTS GROUP

What: Join Roswell’s group of talented needlecraft experts once a week to practice your skills, learn or teach some, or for just come for the community.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 1-3 p.m.

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

PET ADOPTIONS:

FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER What: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd.

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: OUTDOOR CLUB – DECEMBER HIKES What: The Heritage Sandy Springs Outdoors Club will host weekly hikes through Sandy Springs. This week’s is through Heritage Sandy Springs.

When: Friday, Dec. 29, 8:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Sandy Springs, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs More info: heritagesandysprings.org

STEVE HUDSON Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net

So here we are, and Christmas has come and gone.

The gifts have all been unwrapped, and everyone on your list is now enjoying new toys.

Now come the bills. And yes, they’re coming – and they require payment in good

old U.S. currency.

That brings us, in a roundabout sort of way, to this week’s outdoor adventure: a hike at Sope Creek.

At this point in the season, it’s a pretty safe bet that you need to do some hiking. All those parties…all that food… and the lure of the sofa is strong. But you know you’ll feel better if you can get yourself moving. Besides, a good hike is just the thing to take your mind off (dare I say it again) all those post-gift-giving bills.

Especially if it’s a hike to a money factory.

A money factory? Yep, I thought that might get your attention!

This particular might-be-a-money factory, or what’s left of it, awaits you in the Sope Creek Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Specifically, I’m thinking about the ruins of Marietta Paper Mills, an extensive paper factory that was alive and well during the second half of the 19th century (that is, the 1800s), churning out, among other things, newsprint for many Georgia newspapers and legend says the paper used to print Confederate currency. So it really might have been a “money factory” after all.

Sure, the money was Confederate, and that won’t help you with your bills today. The old factory is in ruins anyway. But it’s the thought that counts, and the week after Christmas any thought that gets you outside and active again (all that pecan pie…) is indeed a thought worth thinking.

In the interest of full disclosure I must tell you that there’s some debate about whether the paper produced there ever made its way into Confederate cash. But such details are best left to the historians. What you want to do is to get out there and hike the trails and get a sense of those ruins yourself.

There really is a neat sense of timelessness to them. What stories might they tell? You do want to know, don’t you?

So flee the sofa! Get up and go!

The easiest way to reach these ruins is to start at the CRNRA parking area off

STEVE HUDSON/HERALD

Legend says that the paper printed by the Marietta Paper Mills was used for Confederate currency.

Paper Mill Road. From there, you’ll have access to the Sope Creek Unit’s complex network of interconnected trails, among them a mixed-use hike/bike trail that makes for some interesting riding on that new mountain bike you found under your tree. By the way, your mother called and told me to remind you to wear your helmet when you ride.

But you won’t have to worry about that if you’re bound for the ruins. The trails leading to them are designated for foot travel only.

You’ll enter the trail system at the far end of the parking area behind a group of signs. Actually, two trails begin there – a road-like gravel trail that starts behind a gate (the mixed-use trail for hikers and bikers) and also a dirt trail (foot travel only) to the left of the signs. To visit the ruins, follow the dirt trail to the left toward intersection SC3 (these are National Park Service intersection identifiers, and they are very helpful). Then, at SC3, turn left along a gently descending trail toward intersection SC4.

At SC4, go left and follow the trail as it descends more or less parallel to Paper Mill Road. Watch for rough sections as you go. Soon, you’ll reach a trail juncture (SC26) where the trail swings down toward the road and yet another intersection (SC27) – and just beyond that point, there they are: the ruins of the old Marietta Paper Mills (2).

Paper was an important strategic material during the Civil War, possibly because of its use in printing Confederate currency but also because it was essential for printing newspapers (there might be a lesson there for our time too). For that reason, the site was on the radar of Union forces – and on July 5, 1864, they burned it. After the war the mill was rebuilt, only to burn again in 1870. Rebuilt yet again, it operated until 1902. Historic markers near the parking area tell the story in detail.

Finding the trailhead From Interstate 285, take the Riverside Drive exit (exit 24). Go north on Riverside Drive for 2.3 miles to Johnson Ferry Road. Turn left on Johnson Ferry Road, and go 2.7 miles to Paper Mill Road. Turn left onto Paper Mill Road and go 2.2 miles. The entrance to the Sope Creek Unit will be on the left after you cross Sope Creek.

Several trails meander among the ruins, allowing you to explore them thoroughly. There are more ruins on the other side of the Sope Creek, too, and another trail goes down its far side.

But whichever trail you take, remember not to climb on the ruins themselves.

Keep your feet on the ground. Take lots of pictures. Morning and evening are especially good photo times if you can catch the sun just right. But don’t climb on the old stone ruins.

After exploring the ruins, you might want to take time to check out some of the Sope Creek Unit’s other trails too. The loop around Sibley Pond is a favorite of many, and it’s close by too.

So there you have it – a hike at the old money factory, or so I like to tell myself. Anachronistic or not, there’s something oddly soothing about a thought like that at this time of year.

All I need to do, I add in my notes to myself, is to find such a factory where the currency is current, the production line is in full swing, and free samples are to be had for the asking.

I can dream – Learn more about the hiking trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Steve Hudson’s book Hiking the Hooch. It’s available from local outfitters, from the park headquarters at Island Ford, and on Amazon.

Signed copies are available direct from the author at chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

22 | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 23

Dermatology tips and tricks Brought to you by: Dr. Brent Taylor Premier Dermatology and MOHS Surgery of Atlanta Around the holidays, it is nice to have a few strategies for looking and continuing to look your best. Listed below are a few facts that we hope that you will find fun or useful.

1. Green cancels red. Whether you have rosacea, acne or just a complexion that is a bit more ruddy than you would like, it is helpful to know this little beauty secret. Green makeup, concealer or moisturizer is often the best strategy to cover up red blemishes, especially in a pinch. Apply a thin coat to the area that is too red, blend it in with the normal skin at the edges, and you have found the best way to elegantly hide a red mark or complexion. Knowing this tip can allow you to “conceal without caking.” A thin coat of green-tinted concealer often works better than a thick (and too obvious) coat of skin-toned cover-up.

Need something stronger? Consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist to discuss modern anti-redness options like Rhofade, Mirvaso, or Oracea.

2. UPF is the new SPF. Looking for a great gift idea for a family member who spends time outdoors?

Modern beach, athletic, and outdoor wear is increasingly being sold with a “UPF” rating. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor. It works the same way that SPF (sun protection factor) ratings do on sunscreen. A shirt with a UPF rating of 50 lets 1/50 of the sun’s rays through. It used to be that rash guards and protective clothing were not fashionable or aesthetically appealing. Thankfully, our increasingly health-conscious population has spurred the growth of a whole industry catering to those who love the outdoors but who also want to keep their skin healthy. Amazingly, the average thin white cotton t-shirt only has the same protection as a sunscreen with SPF 4!

Just because your loved one is wearing a shirt while outdoors, they will not be truly protected unless they are wearing UPF-rated clothing.

3. Botox and Beyond. Many people are aware of how botox can nearly painlessly fade away wrinkles and improve one’s appearance in areas like the forehead and crow’s feet, but Botox and its cousin neuromodulators Xeomin and Dysport have applications that one might not guess. A skilled botox injector such as a board-certified dermatologist is likely to know a few creative ways to use Botox. Here are two examples: The gummy smile: When we smile, our upper lip lifts over our teeth.

Sometimes, the upper lip lifts more than we would like, showing not only the teeth but a large amount of the gums as well. For many people, an amazing transformation can be achieved by injecting botox at a few strategic DR. TAYLOR points on the upper lip near the nose. This can weaken the muscle that lifts the lip and restore the lip to a lower position when smiling.

The perma-frown: A muscle called the depressor anguli oris pulls the corners of the mouth down. In many people, the muscle is a little too active, and when the person’s face is at rest, the corners are slightly pulled down giving an appearance of dissatisfaction.

A few units of Botox at a strategic point above the jawline can often release this muscle allowing the corners of the mouth to pull back up. Now, people can see one’s true happiness and contentment rather than the façade of a frown that was not felt.

4. Vein care. Winter is one of the best times to think about vein care, partially because most insurance companies require patients to wear compression stockings for 90 days before the company approves medically necessary vein treatments. Winter is the most comfortable time to wear those compression stockings because they will keep you warm in the winter but can really be a pest in July or August.

Vein disease doesn’t simply mean varicose veins. Over a third of patients with vein disease may have no visible varicose veins at all. Some of the less visible veins can have valves that malfunction. This can lead to swelling, itching, leg pain, restless legs, leg pain at night, heaviness after sitting or being on your feet all day and many other complaints that might not seem to obviously arise from malfunctioning veins.

A painless and safe ultrasound study can identify whether your symptoms are due to vein disease, and modern treatments are minimally invasive carry a vastly improved risk / benefit ratio over treatments of old.

At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, it is our privilege to take care of you this holiday season and our pleasure to help you look and feel your best and healthiest. Whether you have a suspicious mole and want to discuss UPF clothing or whether you have a gummy smile or lower leg complaints that might be venous in origin, we are delighted to serve you. If you have skin health, vein or beauty questions, we hope that you will consider spending a part of your holiday season with us.

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24 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

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Five years ago Hilary and Greg Eldridge had a vision of in-home care with a difference. They built their business as a tribute to Hilary’s father, with an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional home care that would enrich the lives of their clients with spirit as well as skill. Hilary’s father was 60 when she was born, and as he aged this loving, feisty man would always say “Don’t be fooled by my aging body, because inside I still feel like I’m 35!” This youthful-spirit perspective inspires us every day to bring a customized level of service that helps us engage our clients and share in the richness of their lives, present and past.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as the 2017 Best of Senior Home Care in North Atlanta” says Hilary Eldridge. “We are profoundly grateful to our clients, caregivers, supervisory team and referral partners for making this happen. What we love about our business is that we are actually helping people in our community live independently in the comfort and security of their own home. Thank you to all of our partners and families for entrusting us to care for those they care for.”

Making the right match of caregiver and client is one of the keys to a great relationship. Our hiring process, screening and training guidelines are extensive. When you meet our talented

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caregivers you can see that they bring their hearts to work every day and make a beautiful difference in our clients’ lives. Their positive spirits are a joy to be around and work with, and are at the core of what drives HILARY ELDRIDGE Home Helpers as we honor our vision and commitment to provide the best quality of life for our clients and their loved ones.

As everyday life becomes more challenging, we are there when and where you need us, from a few hours GREG ELDRIDGE several days a week to 24/7 care. We have a wide range of services, from day to day assistance to help with the full range of personal care needs. Recovering from surgery or just getting home from a rehabilitation center can be the perfect time to call Home Helpers, with a scalable level of service that can change as you recuperate. Our free in home consultation can help you discover the services that are right for you.

We service communities north of Atlanta, and would be happy to discuss the personalized plan that remembers your youthful spirit! Contact us by phone at 770-681-0323, by email at Alpharretta@HomeHelpersHomeCare.com or online at: www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta .

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 25

Thank you for voting Home Helpers Best Home Care for Seniors!

Personalized Home Care that nurtures a youthful spirit

Greg and Hilary Eldridge,

Owners – Home Helpers of Alpharetta Certified Senior Advisors(CSA)®

Serving Communities North of Atlanta

www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta

WINNER 2017

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

For a free consultation, please call 770-681-0323

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. This thoughtful selection helps establish a bond between a caregiver and client that bolsters the young at heart spirit waiting to come out in each client.

Each office is independently owned and operated.

26 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

Soleil Laurel Canyon Tucked away in the North Georgia foothills of Canton and just a short drive from exciting Atlanta, Soleil Laurel Canyon is more than a beautiful community of maintenance-free, ranchstyle homes and breathtaking views.

It’s the lifestyle you’ve worked your whole life to enjoy.

If you are 55+, we invite you to come experience Soleil’s incomparable array of recreation, culture, and entertainment for yourself. You’ll have no doubt why it was named among the Best 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S. by Where to Retire Magazine in 2015.

“Clubhouses, fitness centers, social clubs and education classes mean residents get much more than a house at a planned community,” said Karen Northridge, publisher of “Where to Retire.”

One of the great pleasures of living at Soleil is that a low-maintenance home gives you the free time to take advantage of all that the community offers or take a trip without concern.

The landscaped grounds of Soleil Laurel Canyon are always impeccably maintained, while your HOA dues cover complete lawn maintenance and

an irrigation system, in-home security monitoring and maintenance, and even Comcast cable TV. Soleil Laurel Canyon offers a selection of Cottage, Traditional and Craftsman-style single-family homes from the mid $200,000s to $400,000s for adults 55+.

Residents live independently in homes that range from 1,500 square feet to almost 3,000 square feet. All of Soleil’s new floor plans include elegant details and are designed for aging-in-

place with stepless-entry access and wide doorways. These homes are energy efficient with HERS ratings above standard.

Soleil residents have membership in a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse complete with an arts and crafts room, billiards room, fitness center, gourmet teaching kitchen, indoor heated saline lap pool, and library.

Outside the clubhouse, residents have a heated Lagoon-style pool, a community garden and greenhouse,

a 3.5-acre fishing lake and the tennis facility with a full-time USPTA-certified teaching professional.

The Fairways of Canton golf course is located just outside Soleil’s gate within Laurel Canyon, and offers challenging golf for a reasonable, daily-fee price.

Two Lifestyle Directors maintain a full social calendar of events including wine socials, movie nights, trips to nearby attractions, and Grandkids day.

The place to be right now.

Amenity-Rich Resort Living for Active Adults

Just north of Atlanta, Soleil is the place to be. Award-winning resort style 55+ community only minutes from shopping, dining, hospitals, culture and Blue Ridge.

New Homes from the Low $300s

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© 2017 Lifestyles at Laurel Canyon, LLC. Special offers, prices, home designs and other information subject to errors, changes, omissions, deletions, availability, prior sale and withdrawal at any time without notice. Not an offering to CT, NJ or NY residents.

Void where prohibited. *on contracts written on inventory homes by 12/31/17

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 27

You can get on track for retirement (NAPSI)—There’s good news for anyone worried about saving for retirement— you already have what it takes to be a smart saver!

A recent survey by AARP and the Ad Council revealed that Americans are getting the most out of every dollar in many areas in their lives, with 92 percent using money-saving hacks like comparison shopping, using coupons, and signing up for customer reward programs.

Yet, fewer Americans have applied this savviness to their retirement savings. Two in five households headed

by Americans age 55 to 64 have no assets saved for retirement, according to the National Institute on Retirement Security.

Furthermore, while many companies will match their employees’ retirement plan contributions up to a certain amount, only three out of 10 Americans are contributing enough to maximize the company match—which means they’re essentially leaving free money on the table.

To address this savings shortfall, AARP and the Ad Council have launched a new campaign to help people save for retirement with a new free interactive online resource, AceYourRe-

tirement.org, to empower people to take control of their financial futures.

“Retirement planning can sometimes leave people anxious, confused or even paralyzed,” said Debra Whitman, executive vice president and chief public policy officer, AARP. “This campaign breaks down retirement savings into easy, actionable steps for all Americans.”

What You’ll Find at AceYourRetirement.org AceYourRetirement.org features a friendly digital retirement coach named AvoSM, who guides you through a series of questions about your life, savings goals and retirement plans. In just a few minutes, Avo provides a personalized action plan that highlights your top three action items—the simple, practical things you can do right now to save for retirement. The tips cover a wide range of topics, including how to turn a hobby into a source of income during retirement and how to have a conversation with family members about getting on the same page financially.

Tips To Help You Get On Track With Your Retirement Savings: • Try to increase your contributions to your retirement savings plan every

year, even if by only 1 percent.

• If your employer offers matching funds for your retirement savings plan, contribute at least enough to get the full employer match. Don’t turn down free money!

• Brainstorm ideas for earning money in retirement, such as turning a hobby into a source of income, or taking on seasonal part-time work.

• Wait as long as you can—up to age 70 if possible—to begin collecting Social Security. This increases your annual

benefit.

• Evaluate your budget to see if you can reduce some of your expenses. This can help you put away more money now, and also have a lower cost of living in retirement.

Get Your Plan Though saving for retirement can be intimidating, it’s never too late to get on track for a more financially secure future. For your personalized retirement savings action plan, visit www.AceYourRetirement.org.

Bungalows Cottages Independent Living Assisted Living Memor y Care ALPHARETTA

LIVE THE LIFE YOU’VE EARNED.

final preleasing

12300 Morris Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30005 678-740-3499 VillageParkSeniorLiving.com

PEACHTREE CORNERS

now open

5701 Spalding Dr. Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-416-0502 VillageParkSpalding.com

28 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

Hopewell Hawks capture championship MILTON, Ga. — The 13U Hopewell Hawks Red team recently captured the Fall Southern Sports Championship.

The team outscored opponents 30-2 and pitched two no-hitters and a one-hitter in three games.

Request for Proposals City of Milton Court/Police and Fire Facilities CM@Risk Services RFP NUMBER 18-PW04 Sealed Proposals Due Date: January 25, 2018 2:00PM Local Time Milton City Hall To be publicly opened approximately 2:05PM in the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals.

The City of Milton is requesting submittals from interested parties for a public private partnership. The request for sealed proposals is to provide CM@ Risk Services for the construction of the City of Milton Court/Police and Fire Facilities and will be posted on the following websites the week of December 14, 2017. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp City of Milton Notice of Meeting Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting:

Board of Zoning Appeals January 16, 2018 7:00 P.M.

Location:

City of Milton – New City Hall Location 2006 Heritage Walk Council Chambers Milton, Georgia 30004-6119 678-242-2500

SPECIAL

Request for Proposal Police Department Uniforms RFP NUMBER 18-PD01 Sealed Proposals Due Date: January 11, 2018 2:00PM Local Time Milton City Hall To be publicly opened approximately 2:05PM in the Council Chambers The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals.

The City of Milton is requesting submittals from interested parties for a public private partnership. The request for sealed proposals for the City of Milton Police Department Uniforms will be posted on the following websites the week of December 21, 2017. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

Consideration of Primary Variance a. V17-024, 3585 Muirfield Drive Request(s): • To reduce the side yard setback to 10 feet Consideration of Secondary Variance a. V17-017, 12455 Broadwell Road Request(s): • To reverse the city’s determination that the submitted site plan complies with the Crabapple Form Based Code

Not Just Funerals, Celebrations of Life.

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

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 29

Cambridge wrestling wins championship MILTON, Ga. — Cambridge prevailed in the Fulton County wrestling championships Dec. 15 at Milton High School from a field of 12 schools. The Bears won the title over Milton by 6.5 points.

Sean Murray Melbourne (120 lbs.), Gavin Kane (160 lbs.) and Nick Meyer (220 lbs.) all captured wins in their weight divisions. Cambridge also received podium finishes from Jett Johnson, Kyle Romano, Bryson Ferguson, Geoffrey Johnston and Julian Petty.

Milton’s second-place finish was led by wins from Ben Williams (126 lbs.) and Khaled Rmeih (132 lbs.).

Rmeih and Cambridge’s Gavin Kane were named most outstanding wrestlers for the tournament.

Roswell placed third in the tournament just two points behind Milton. Joe Sci (106 lbs.), Dawson Winters (113 lbs.), Steve Copeland (145 lbs.) and Cole Anderson (182 lbs.) all won their respective weight divisions.

Chattahoochee placed fourth, led by wins from Marcus Stephen (170 lbs.) and Noah Latzch (285 lbs.).

Four fourth-place finishes from Centennial put the Knights in ninth in the competition.

-Joe Parker

SPECIAL

Cambridge captured the Fulton County Championship from a field of 12 schools on Dec. 15 at Milton High.

2017 Year End Report – City of Milton Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) Pursuant to Senate Bill 369, Section 48-8-269-6 the following chart represents the 2017 annual non-technical report on financial status of each Tier 1 purpose/ program. This report represents the period from the start of the TSPLOST on April 1, 2017 through December 15, 2017.

Tier 1 Purpose/Programs

Original Estimated Cost

Congestion Relief

$

Bridges

$

Operations and Safety

$

Pedestrian / Bike Improvements

$

Program Management Tier 1 Total Costs

Current Estimated Cost

9,540,000 $

Amount Expended in Prior Years

Amount Contracted in 2017

Amount Expended in 2017

9,540,000 $

0 $

1,610,000 $

1,610,000 $

0 $

0 $

0

16,900,000 $

16,900,000 $

0 $

42,700 $

24,280

3,372,490 $

3,372,490 $

0 $

0 $

0

$

750,000 $

750,000 $

0 $

750,000 $

45,359

$

32,172,490 $

32,172,490 $

0 $

841,000 $

106,539

Conges�on Relief – $48,300 • NE Crabapple Connector: Design • Morris Road Widening: Design

Bridges / Opera�ons & Safety / Project Management – $771,700 • Opera�ons & Safety Scope of Contracted Work: Design • Project Management Scope of Contracted Work: Program Management, Construc�on, Engineering and Inspec�on Services

48,300 $

36,900

30 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

Case Worker: Full Time.

North Fulton Community Charities is seeking candidates for a Case Worker position to provide emergency assistance and prevention services for residents. The successful candidate will have excellent oral/written communication skills and experience working with a low income population.

BA &/or 5 yrs. experience required. Bilingual in Spanish a plus. NFCC requires background check, drug screen and e-Verify. Submit resume with salary requirements or pick up application & job descriptions at NFCC, 11270 Elkins Rd, Roswell 30076 or batherton@ nfcchelp.org

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 31

MAIN SERVICE DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS continued from page 30

Transportation Cars WE BUY YOUR CAR WE PAY CASH! Any condition.

Call 404-604-7834 for cash offer! www. thecrewautosale.com

Trucks S U N S E E K E R RV/2900, 2008: 34,600 miles. $18,000.

425-299-8785

Real Estate

Cleaning Services

Driveway

Handyman

ESTATE HOME CLEAN UP Divorcing? Loved one going into senior care?

Specialized detailed cleaning, packing boxes with list of items. Debris cleanup, charity donation, interior/exterior window cleaning, pressure washing.

Loving Hands by JW and Company Inc. 678463-4577. jennifer@ jwcompanyinc.com

REPAIR or REPLACEMENT Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. $150 off any job over $1500.

Residential or Commercial.

Competitive pricing.

Many local references.

For a FREE estimate call Dave of McKemey Concrete and Hardscapes 678-914-2576.

RAM’S HOME SERVICES Kitchen hardware replaced. Appliances and ceiling fans installed. Sink/toilet/ leak repair. www. ramshs.com for list of services. Experienced.

770-769-5498

THE MAGIC BROOM CLEANING SERVICE EXPERT INSURED CLEANING YOU CAN TRUST! Schedule today! $20 off first service.

770-3788290. F@cleanbroom (Facebook)

House for Rent

Concrete/Asphalt

CUMMING: Brand new, never lived in 4BR/2.5BA. All appliances. Half-mile from 400. $1875/ month.

Realtor (Kiran) 470-505-9811. realtorkiran@yahoo. com

RETAINING WALLS & CONCRETE WORK We build retaining walls. Local, reliable, honest, experienced.

Call Ralph at 678-898-7237

Instruction Classes ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES . $15$45/class. Windows, Excel, e-bay, photo editing, Microsoft Word, internet, e-mail etc. Roswell Adult Recreation Center 770-641-3950. http:// www.roswellalc.org/ rscalendar.htm

Personal Services Eldercare YOUR HOME: Nights or days. 8-12 hours. $ 1 4 / h o u r. Ve r i f i a b l e references.

20+ years experience.

Transportation.

Nonsmoker/Englishspeaking. No pets.

470-779-4723/ 470-545-1910

WE FIX UGLY DRIVEWAYS AND PATIOS.

$150 OFF any job over $1500 New or Repair: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls.

Residential or Commercial.

Call for FREE estimate.

The Best Concrete C o m p a n y .

Professional, competitive, many local references. Ask for Dave McKemey.

678-648-2010.

Driveway DRIVEWAY REPLACEMENT: Patios and walkways.

Stonework. 17 years experience. Hundreds of reviews online; see our online photo gallery: Sudlowconcrete.com 404-450-3753

BOLD TYPE

will really make your ad stand out. 770-442-3278

Drywall NEED A BEDROOM OR BASEMENT FINISHED? Drywall services.

Drywall so clean you won’t see lines!

678-909-9773 Call for consultation.

Flooring I n s t a l l / Repairs: Carpet, Laminate, Tile, Vinyl Wood floors, Backsplashes, and Shower surrounds.

Carpet wrinkles removed! Call today for estimate!

706-429-4453 PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen backsplashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Gutters AARON’S ALLTYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed.

Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aaronsgutters.com. Senior citizen discount!

770-934-2766

RELIABLE HOME REPAIRS: 22 years experience.

References.

Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, wood rot repair, siding, painting, pressure washing.

Free e s t i m a t e s !

770-605-0340

Kitchen & Bath:

Plumbing, Electrical Drywall and Other Repairs and Installations.

Home Maintenance. 20 years experience. Call Mike.

678-986-4833 ALL CARPENTRY & REPAIRS: Roof Leaks, Wood Rot Repair, Siding, Deck Repairs and Refinishing, Painting, Doors/Windows.

Excellent References.

404-895-0260

Haulers Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling etc. Many local references.

Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237

Home Improvement PATIOS-DECKS DRIVEWAYS SIDEWALKS & WALLS $150 OFF any job over $1500. Many local references. Call Dave McKemey at 678-648-2010

ADVERTISE HERE! Call 770-442-3278 or email us at classifieds@appenmediagroup.com

Home Improvement

Phillips Home Improvement We offer drywall, painting, carpentry, plumbing and electrical. Basements finished, kitchen and bath rehabs. All types flooring.

Also total home rehab for those who have a rental house or one to sell.

Call 678-887-1868 for a free estimate Finegan Home Improvements LLC: License #RBQA004932.

R e m o d e l i n g , handyman.

31 years experience.

Basements finished, decks, screen porches, doors, drywall, painting, flooring, custom kitchens, bathrooms.

All insurance. Paul Finegan 404-353-5611

Landscaping RAS Landscape Design Installation A full service landscape company capable of doing your job. 25+ years experience.

Ralph 678-898-7237

Lawn Care LEAVE THE MOWING TO US”A”! Weekly/ Bi-weekly Lawn mowing/landscape.

Mulch & Pine-straw Installation. Licensed/ Insured/free est. Call or text: 678-727-6850 www.gagreenworks. com

FRAME YOUR AD Enhance your ad with a BORDER. 770-442-3278

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Painters

Auto Donations

Miscellaneous

J&J PAINTING OF GEORGIA Trusted-Family Owned.

20+ Years Experience.

Fully Licensed and Insured.

FREE ESTIMATES! A+ BBB Rating. 770-715-5322.

JANDJPAINTINGOF GA.COM

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2000 and Newer.

Nation’s Top Car Buyer! Free Towing From Anywhere! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.

Pinestraw PINESTRAW, mulch delivery/installation available. Firewood $110/$200, plus delivery.

Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612.

Tree Services 404Cuttree. One of the most experienced and reliable tree companies in North Atlanta.

Perfect reviews and reliable, professional, and honest service.

Free quotes.

Fully insured. 770Tree.com 678-506-0006 RAS Cutting Services Complete tree removal.

Ralph 678-898-7237 JJ Tree Cutting Services. Complete Tree Removal-Call us for a Free Quote, 678-467-1325 or 770-630-6672.

Licensed and insured. jjtreecutting@gmail. com Yellow Ribbon Tree.

Near perfect reviews and award-winning service. Hands on owner. Free estimates and insured. 770Tree. com 770-744-2200 and ask for Gary.

A small list of really good tree services.

Screened and vetted local services From

Every time you use 770Tree.com to request an estimate, Appen-Rated makes a donation to North Fulton Community Charities or The Drake House.

Do good & get great tree work too!

Autos Wanted CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

All Make/Models 2000-2015!

Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

Educational 25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Earn $1000 per week! Paid CDL Training!

STEVENS TRANSPORT COVERS ALL COSTS! 1 - 8 7 7 - 2 0 9 - 1 3 0 9 drive4stevens.com AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING Get FAA certification to work for airlines.

Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Housing assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704

Financial Over $10K in debt? Be debt free in 24-48 months. Pay nothing to enroll. Call National Debt Relief at 866-243-0510.

Health & Medical FREE VIAGRA PILLS 48 PILLS + 4 FREE! VIAGRA 100MG/ CIALIS 20mg Free Pills! No hassle, Discreet Shipping. Save Now. Call Today 1-888-410-0514 VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed.

Money back guaranteed!

1-888-278-6168 VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $95.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW 800-317-7404 Hablamos Espanol Generic VIAGRA 100mg Generic CIALIS 20mg. 70 for $99 GREAT DEAL!!!! FAST FREE SHIPPING! 100% money back GUARANTEE! CALL NOW 888-669-9343 Se habla espanol 888-713-3919

Medical DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures.

888-623-3036 or http:// www.dental50plus.com/58 Ad# 6118 OXYGEN Anytime.

Anywhere. No tanks to refill.

No deliveries. The All-New Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds! FAA approved! FREE info kit: 844-558-7482

Make a Connection.

Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now!

Call LiveLinks.

Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+ Lung Cancer? And 60+ Years Old? If So, You And Your Family May Be Entitled To A Significant Cash Award. Call 855-547-8865 To Learn More.

No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket.

CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies. com The nation’s largest senior living referral service. A PLACE FOR MOM. Contact our trusted, local experts today!

Our service is FREE. No obligation. CALL 855-741-7459 DISH Network-Satellite Television Services. Now Over 190 channels for ONLY $49.99/ mo! 2-year price guarantee.

FREE Installation. FREE Streaming. More reliable than Cable. Add Internet for $14.95 a month. 800-718-1593.

FINAL EXPENSE INSURANCE. No medical exams!

Premiums never increase. Benefits never go down.

Affordable monthly payments. Call for a free quote! 877-587-4169 NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book.

FREE author submission kit!

Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 866-951-7214 Bathe safely and stay in the home you love with the #1 selling walk-in tub in North America. For an in-home appointment, call: 888-308-5610 HOTELS FOR HEROES – to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at www. fisherhouse.org

Motorcycles Wanted to Buy WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI Z1-900 (1972-75), KZ900, KZ1000 (1976-1982), Z1R, KZ 1000MK2 (1979,80), W1-650, H1-500 (1969-72), H2-750 (1972-1975), S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, KH250, KH400, SUZUKI-GS400, GT380, HONDA-CB750K (1969-1976), CBX1000 (1979,80) CASH!!

1-800-772-1142 1-310-7210726 usa@classicrunners.com

32 | December 28, 2017 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

happy new year THANK YOU TO MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS FOR

MAKING THIS ONE OF THE MOST SUCESSFUL YEARS YET!

NEW LISTING

ACTIVE

15635 Canterbury Chase

13940 Haystack Lane

Offered for $937,000

Offered for $2,950,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

SOLD

ACTIVE

455 Arcaro Drive

14041 Triple Crown Drive

14000 Haystack Lane

545 Tullamore Way

Offered for $889,000

Offered for $874,999

Offered for $1,450,000

Offered for $1,325,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

PRICE REDUCTION

267 Traditions Drive

1305 Rolling Links Drive

691 Glenover Drive

549 Canterbury Lane

Offered for $900,000

Offered for $1,175,000

Offered for $859,000

Offered for $599,000

JULIE MARTIN c. 770.668.4680 o. 770.442.7300 j u l i ema rt i n@ a t l a nt a f i neho mes.co m AT L AN TAF IN E HO MES.CO M | SIR.CO M ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.