Alpharetta-Roswell Herald, January 5, 2017

J a n u a r y 5 , 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 3 5 , N o . 1

Bring on 2017

Alpharetta, Roswell mayors preview city’s New Years ►►page 4

Restaurant megaplex in works Developer plans restaurant complex at old Varsity site ►►Page 6

Roswell seeks to preserve the past

Councilman seeks tighter controls over Historic District construction ►►Page 10

Northwest corridor

Virtual reality comes to Avalon Recently, visitors were able to test out Samsung’s Gear VR which uses the smart phone and technology built by Facebook’s Oculus team to virtually transport operators to various locations. Read more, Page 12.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

Roswell council approves $4.2M to complete Sun Valley connection ►►Page 11

Raiders on a roll

AHS’ boys basketball buys into new system under new head coach ►►Page 15

Real Estate Report Sponsored section ►►page 22

the world judges. we don’t. $1 DOWN $10 A MONTH 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. | Roswell | (770) 645-2345

ENDS

1/11

2 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 PUBLISHER Ray Appen EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell: ex. 118 Forsyth Herald: ex. 143 Johns Creek Herald: ex. 121 Milton Herald: ex. 143 Business Post: ex. 116 Northside Woman: ex. 102

News: news@appenmediagroup.com Press Releases: NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar ADVERTISING QUESTIONS: General Advertising: ex. 101 advertising@appenmediagroup.com Classified Advertising: ex. 119 classifieds@appenmediagroup.com Circulation/Subscriptions/Delivery: ex. 100 circulation@appenmediagroup.com Our Weekly Publications

28,000 Circulation

Employee assaulted, robbed at gunpoint MILTON, Ga. — On Dec. 27, an assailant assaulted a local Subway employee with a gun and robbed the store of its cash before locking the employee in the cooler.

An employee at the Morris Road Subway said a few minutes before 10 p.m., a man entered the kitchen with a gun.

He jabbed the gun under the employee’s ribcage and forced him to take cash out of the register. The employee complied and gave the man the $270 that was in the register.

The man then forced the employee to kneel between two safes and demanded that he open them. The employee could

Police Blotter

TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL:

17,000 Circulation

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.

Verizon hit with $4K overnight theft JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Verizon store employees reported a burglary Dec. 20 when they saw that $4,000 worth of electronics was missing from the building.

DUIs & Drugs 20,000 Circulation

10,000 Circulation

Our Monthly Publication

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.

18,000 Circulation Our Companion Websites

DUI arrests ►► Elizabeth A. Whitesides, 43, of

Visit AppenMediaGroup.com for more information.

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

Public Safety

Bramshill Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Dec. 6 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► David Todd Jones, 48, of Crown Vetch Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Dec. 12 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, following too close and no insurance. ►► Mark Jeffrey Modlin, 51, of Plano, Texas, was arrested Dec. 13 on Haynes

only open one safe and gave the man $620 in it.

When the employee demonstrated that he could not open the second safe, the man repeatedly hit him and locked the employee in the walk-in cooler.

The employee, however, was able to escape after the suspect left and immediately called police.

The suspect was wearing dark clothes with a mask and gloves. He appeared to be 6 feet tall with a Hispanic accent.

Police were given security footage showing the encounter to aid in the investigation.

When police arrived at the store on Old Alabama Road, they found that multiple wires had been cut from the island and wall displays.

Multiple phones and tablets were taken.

The security video showed a man arriving at the store at 2 a.m. in a small, silver SUV. He appeared to tamper with the glass door before shattering it with an unknown tool.

The man, wearing a mask, attempted to kick down the storage room door, but was unsuccessful. He then took the display electronics and walked out.

Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI and headlights required. ►► Sezai Bayrak, 45, of Stevens Creek Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Dec. 16 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, speeding and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Luis Ramon Cruz, 40, of Cypress Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Dec. 17 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and no license. ►► Andrew Arthur Carmichael, 51, of Hidden River Trace, Woodstock, was arrested Dec. 17 on Westside Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI. ►► Jazmyn Cherie Boulware, 26, of Vintage Oaks Drive, Loganville, was arrested Dec. 20 on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI. ►► Wesley Charles Burgner, 36, of

Potential roommate scams woman for $5K MILTON, Ga. — A woman reported a case of theft by deception Dec. 27 when a prospective roommate allegedly attempted to steal $5,000 through a fraudulent check.

The woman had posted online early in December that she was seeking a roommate and got a response from an interested 27-year-old woman in California.

They agreed that the suspect would

See BLOTTER, Page 28 Saratoga Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Dec. 20 on Timberstone Road in Johns Creek for DUI.

Drug arrests ►► Nehemiah Thomas, 46, of Crockett

Drive SE, Marietta, was arrested Dec. 12 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and wanted person. ►► Hannah Dara Rubin-Burrasca, 26, of Tamarac, Florida, was arrested Dec. 18 on Rock Mill Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and possession of drug-related items. ►► Todd Phillips Letcher, 35, of Milford Chase SW, Marietta, was arrested Dec. 23 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Johns Creek for heroin possession.

Get It Framed by the pros at

THE PICTURE FRAMER The Picture Framer is independently owned and operated since 1990. A proud and active member of the ABA, we offer custom framing, shadow boxes, needle work, frame and print restoration.

25% Off

All Custom Framing Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer.

Located at 631 North Main St. Suite 109 • Milton, GA 30004 (across the street from Big Lots) • 770-667-2112

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 3

“Eyedentify” Diabetes Complications (part two) Diabetic patients, particularly older ones, may present with several diabetesrelated ocular complications on a daily basis. As eyecare providers, we are uniquely qualified to not only manage the disease’s ocular complications, but to also educate patients on how best to take care of themselves. Here, I discuss diabetes in the eye, the most up-to-date treatment.

Make Healthier Eyes Part of Your New Year’s Resolution

Lens

In addition to the pathological changes in the cornea epithelium caused by an increase in sorbitol, this increase also induces an escalated rate of premature cataract formation. In addition, this sorbitol increase results in refractive error shifts secondary to infusion of water into the lens matrix. Both hyperopic and myopic shifts are seen, but myopic shifts are more common.

This is a frequent finding in newly diagnosed diabetic patients.

To best manage these patients, re-refract them four to six weeks after their first exam when their blood sugar is (hopefully) better controlled, to provide the most accurate prescription.

When co-managing cataract surgery patients, keep in mind that a long duration of post-operative anti-inflammatory therapy may be necessary to prevent complications, such as cystoid macular edema. Also, make sure the antibiotic drops are used q.i.d. for nine days post-op to prevent infections.

Vitreous and retina

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy can be mild, moderate or severe. (See “Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy,” above.) Proliferative retinopathy is characterized by neovascularization in the retina and optic disc due to advanced capillary closure-caused ischemia. This occurs secondary to hypoxia in the posterior pole, causing an increased VEGF level. Neovascularization of the Iris (NVI), new vessels in the retina (NVE) or new vessels of the disc (NVD) are characteristic. These patients often present with decreased VA and/or floaters, secondary to vitreous hemorrhage.

PRP remains the mainstay treatment for proliferative retinopathy. The procedure reduces the need for oxygen in the posterior pole and subsequently decreases VEGF levels, thus preventing neovascularization. Steroid injections and implants have been shown efficacious in treating macular edema in these patients, and anti-VEGF medications injected directly into the vitreous cavity have proven successful as well.

Optic nerve

The optic nerve is acutely at risk for damage in uncontrolled diabetes, secondary to its reliance on the microvasculature of the posterior ciliary artery. Uncontrolled diabetic patients are at a great risk for anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, retinal artery occlusion, retinal vein occlusion, worsening glaucoma and diabetic papillitis. All these complications are worse with concomitant microvascular disease, such as hypertension and hypercholesterolemia.

Our role

In our yearly comprehensive examinations, we are able to detect and closely monitor ocular complications. This not only allows us to be the “gatekeepers” to our patients’ health, but it also enables us to be influential in their education. Motivating patients to monitor their blood sugar and maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen may be one of our most important duties.

One day, we may be able to influence a change from diabetes being the leading cause of blindness in the United States to a rare complication.

Milan R. Patel, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Niraj Desai, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Samir Vira, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Cameron Johnson, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Vandana Reddy, M.D. Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Voted “Best Eye Surgeons in America” by Castle Connolly.

SERVICES WE OFFER: • Bladeless Cataract Surgery • Diabetic Eye Examination • Dry Eye Management • Corneal Transplant • Glaucoma • Ocular Emergencies Evaluation/Management • Pterygium Surgery

MILAN EYE CENTER Johns Creek | Cumming | Canton | Buford | Roswell | Dahlonega

470-326-0330

Call to make your appointment: Learn more: milaneyecenter.com

4 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

A LOOK AHEAD

Roswell ‘looks ahead’ to 2017 Local Service

SPECIALS 10%-$250 Off TREE SERVICES

770Tree.com

Pre-Screened Local Tree Services. We do all the homework, so you don’t have to.

Screened and vetted local services.

WET BASEMENT?

$250 OFF

250 OFF full basement solutions over 100’or $150 OFF basement solutions less than 100’.Water-proofing and Mold Repair, Crawl Space Encapsulation, Foundation/ Walls Bowing or Cracked. Solutions.

Guaranteed. Discount only by mentioning this ad.

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Pls Call Aquaguard for quote 678-250-4470 $

LANDSCAPING

$150-$250 OFF

Take $150 off any job over $1500 or $250 off any job over $3500. Degreed in Horticulture. Call Tad 678-648-2012

ELECTRICAL

$30 OFF

Any Electrical Work.

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Rated A++ by BBB • Many local referrences

Call 678-648-2011

New customers only. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Limit one coupon per household. Expires 10 days after publication.

DRIVEWAY REPAIR

SAVE $250

$250 OFF any job over $3500 $50 OFF any job over $300 Cannot combine with other offers.

Expires 10 days after publication.

Honest • Professional • Competitive Many Local References • Free Estimates

Dave McKemey 678-648-2010

The best indicator of how well a city will do in the future is the amount of investments being made in improvements to the city.

In 2017, you will see more public and private investment Jere wood in Roswell than in Roswell mayor any year since the recession. Public investments are being made with the approval of taxpayers and their elected representatives who have confidence in Roswell and a vision for the future. Private investments are being made by entrepreneurs who see the success of Canton Street and recognize the demand for residential and business addresses in a walkable community.

The biggest public investment will be in roads, bridges, sidewalks, trails and improvements to existing roads, like South Atlanta Street, Rucker Road and Holcomb Bridge and creating new connections like Sun Valley Road. New trails will be opened along Foe Killer

Creek, Hog Waller Creek, and Big Creek. The roundabout at Houze and Hembree will be completed and construction of a roundabout at Hardscrabble and Chaffin will begin. These transportation improvements will be funded by the state and by the ¾ penny Fulton County T-SPLOST passed this year by voters which is expected to raise over $90 million for transportation improvements in Roswell. The city is finalizing plans for a City Green to connect City Hall to Canton Street, beginning planning for the Chattahoochee River Parks and negotiating the purchase of the Seven Branches land for a park and trail. Fire Station #4 will move to a newly constructed building east of 400.

Private money is being invested along Roswell’s commercial corridors and in our Historic District. North Fulton Hospital will see a major expansion.

Canton Street will see a new boutique hotel and a parking deck at the south end and a three story multi-use project with underground parking at the north end of the street. The Roswell Down-

town Development Authority is considering proposals for redevelopment of the old “Southern Skillet” shopping center. This redevelopment, the City Green project and demand for offices and housing in walking distance from Canton Street are spurring investments that will transform Highway 9 from the Square to Holcomb Bridge Road. Roswell’s restaurant and hospitality business will continue to grow as Rowell becomes the entertainment and cultural center of the north metro. Businesses will continue to relocate and invest in Roswell to be close to great schools, parks and residential neighborhoods.

Roswell will continue to be a great place to live so long as we have a vision for the future and we invest in making that vision a reality.

Alpharetta, the hope of Georgia You know Alpharetta. But, do you know that Alpharetta is the hope of Georgia? There are not too many states more populous than Georgia.

Our State ranks 8th among the 50, hostDavid belle isle ing over 10 million Alpharetta mayor souls. Of those 10 million, 55 percent grew up outside the Peach State. It is, no doubt, a credit to the opportunity, climate, and jobs readily available here. But, to whom will Georgia be home? Will Georgia be loved? Will the members of this 55 percent plant roots? Or, will they pine for the land of their childhood or the next better opportunity?

Honestly, I do not know. What I do know is that the potential and longterm success of Georgia depend on the answers to these questions. A strong state cannot exist without love of place; a personal connection to the ground we call home.

A 6th generation Georgian, I find my hope in this dilemma within the story of Alpharetta. In Alpharetta, nearly all of our residents grew up somewhere else. We grew from 3,000 people to over 65,000 in under 30 years. Five years ago, we started with food trucks and

special events. We built and re-imagined our downtown. We created an environment that has become the epicenter of over 900 technology companies.

We leveraged our strengths and became the Technology City of the South. Avalon, a conference center, an innovation center, a technical college are all recent additions to our city. And, our Citizens have become invested and connected to their Alpharetta. Affection has been found, formed, and organically grown.

Of course, we are not without points of pride. In 2016, Inc. Magazine named Alpharetta one the 10 surprising technology startup hubs in the country.

DataFox listed us as one of the top 12 cities in the U.S. for technology. Wallet Hub named Alpharetta the best small city in Georgia, and Niche.com named us among the top two Atlanta suburbs.

As a staff, our departments have been rated as among the best, and in some cases the very best, in Georgia.

Likewise, we are not without new accomplishments either. This year, Phase 2 of Avalon will be complete. We have a new Southeast headquarters for Microsoft. We witnessed a ground breaking for a new conference center, and we began work on a new trail system to connect Downtown to Avalon to Haynes Bridge and back to Downtown.

For now, we are calling this park the “loop,” but the beautiful purpose is to

connect the people to the stuff.

Going forward, we have a lot more to do. You approved bonds to improve our parks and roads, and we are actively putting those dollars to work.

Several of the new parks are already under contract. Fulton County voters approved the T-SPLOST, and we will be investing over $60 million in Alpharetta to improve your travel times in and through the city.

Yet, the most important progress of 2016 will never show up in a periodical, a list, or a ground-breaking ceremony.

It cannot be easily measured, if at all.

Rather, it is experienced. It is witnessed.

Residents and families are growing more and more attached to their city; their Alpharetta. Last month, I saw hundreds of families standing outside in the cold and rain to see the annual lighting of Alpharetta’s Christmas Tree. It’s their tradition, and they weren’t going to miss it on the mere account of cold wet weather. This past year, we also saw residents spring into action over the future of a parking lot and their Food Truck Ally. It’s affinity. It’s affection. It’s awesome. And, it is through this affection and affinity we have become Alpharetta, the hope of Georgia.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 5

ALL-NEW 2017 SHOW WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

Con nnecting Heaven and Earth

I’ve reviewed about 4,000 shows.

None can compare to what I saw tonight.”

—Richard Connema, renowned Broadway critic

“Absolutely the No.1 show in the world.

No other company or of any style can match this!”

— Kenn Wells, former lead dancer of the English National Ballet

“Absolutely the greatest of the great!

It must be experienced.”

—Christine Walevska, “goddess of the cello”, watched Shen Yun 5 times

“This is the highest and best of what humans can produce.”

—Oleva Brown-Klahn, singer and musician

“AWE-INSPIRING!”

—

“The 8th wonder of the world. People have no idea what they're missing until they come here and see the show.”

—Joe Heard, former White House photographer, watched Shen Yun 6 times

JAN 12-15

Cobb Energy Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339

Jan Jan Jan Jan

12, 13, 14, 15,

Thu Fri Sat Sun

7:30pm 7:30pm 2:00pm & 7:30pm 1:00pm & 6:00pm NEW

NEW SHOW ADD ED! ORDER TODAY! Tickets ShenYun.com/Atlanta

877-ATL-SHOW (285-7469)

6 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Plans announced for 22,000 s.f. restaurant megaplex Old Varsity site off Westside Parkway to become newest Alpharetta ‘destination’

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com

50% OFF YOUR

FIRST TREATMENT!

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Developer George Banks hopes to one-up the old Varsity restaurant with his own vision of “cool” when he opens a courtyard megaplex eatery near Westside Parkway at Haynes Bridge Road later this year.

Banks plans to develop the property at 11556 Rainwater Drive, the site of the Varsity which closed its doors in February 2016.

“We’re very excited about this project,” said Kathy Cook, Alpharetta Planning director, adding that it is good to have a property picked up so quickly after a closure.

“It’s located within a mixed-use community, so there’s a big opportunity for people to walk and eat,” Cook said.

“It’s a neat concept.”

Banks was one of the people behind development of Atlanta’s Krog Street Market.

The Inman Park market, housed in an old warehouse, features two dozen small restaurants and boutique shops and has become an in-town destina-

tion.

The Alpharetta project won’t be nearly as expansive. It will include five restaurants facing an interior courtyard with plenty of outdoor seating.

The plan was introduced to an enthusiastic Alpharetta Design Review

Board Dec. 16.

Each restaurant would be self-sufficient and they would range in size from 4,000 square feet down to 1,000 square feet, Banks said.

Each eatery would have inside seating for 50 to 80 people in case of

inclement weather.

Customers would enter through the courtyard and be faced with five dining options. The patio would be cooled with fans and misters during the summer.

A fireplace and fire pit would take the chill off the cooler months.

The façade facing Westside Parkway would be of painted blocks, eventually covered in vines, Banks said.

“The intent is to kind of create this idea that the passerby says, ‘I gotta find out what’s going on inside that space, it’s so green and mysterious and unusual looking,’” Banks told the board.

Banks said he hopes to close on the property sometime later in January.

He said the tenants will be announced later.

“We’ll be closing on the land in about a month and hopefully starting construction shortly thereafter,” Banks said this week. “We think it’s a good concept, and a good location in Alpharetta.”

Construction is expected to take up to 10 months. The project is being designed by architecture firm Strada LLC of Pittsburgh.

“We’re very excited about it,” Banks said, “and our tenants are excited as well.”

WANT TO LOOK AMAZING IN THE NEW YEAR?

DON’T SWEAT THE HOLIDAYS. SCHEDULE YOUR SCULPSURE TREATMENT TO BURN OFF THE EXCESS FAT TODAY! SculpSure uses light-based technology to destroy* stubborn fat, helping you to achieve the body you want in just 25 minutes* without surgery or downtime.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Check out sculpsurealpharetta.com to learn more about this painless treatment.

401 S. Main Street, Suite B-8, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 740-8444 | agelessglowspa.com

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 7

Luxury home in Windward’s Northshore exclusively offered

by The Ash-Jones Team.

1495 Portmarnock Drive Offered at $1,220,000

• Exceptional four sides brick in gated community • Inviting, private backyard oasis perfect for entertaining • Amazing saltwater pool/spa, outdoor kitchen & fireplace • Luxurious master suite w/renovated bath & fireside sitting room • Fun, flexible terrace level w/wine cellar, billiards/TV room, bed/bath, office • Unparalleled amenities of The Lake Windward Club including 195 acre lake To preview this wonderful property or if you are thinking of selling your home, call The Ash-Jones Team.

The

Ash- Jones Team

Over $30 million closed sales in 2015-2016 Award-winning Relocation Specialists

ashjonesteam.harrynorman.com

Patty Ash 678-557-2877 cell patty@pattyash.com

Eve Jones 770-365-1406 cell eve.jones@harrynorman.com

NORTH FULTON OFFICE | 678-461-8700 | 7855 North Point Parkway, Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 | www.harrynorman.com

8 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

OPINION

Virtual reality: Menace or marvel?

Appen Media’s Kathleen Sturgeon and Julia Grochowski recently had the chance to experience virtual reality through Facebook’s VR tour using Samsung Gear VR. After putting on the headsets, being transported to faraway lands and taking in all that computer simulation offers, the two came out with different outlooks on virtual reality.

Kathleen’s take: I’m slightly afraid for our future.

I recently had the chance to try out virtual reality, which in essence is putting on a headset complete with headphones that “transport” you pretty much anywhere you’d want to go.

Sounds cool, right? Well, not exactly.

I had high expectations as I’d only heard good things. But I should have known that I wouldn’t have enjoyed the experience. After seeming to float weightless through space and an up-close encounter with a dinosaur, I ended the five minute journey standing in the exact same spot as I’d started, but now completely freaked out.

While I enjoyed the ability to virtually tour places and see things I would never be able to in real life, I didn’t like the somewhat claustrophobic feeling of virtual reality. Multiple times I forgot it wasn’t real and had to remind myself I could take off the headset.

Maybe that’s the thing though.

Maybe it was almost too good for me to appreciate.

If the whole point of virtual reality is to transport your mind and a few senses to other places, then it worked exceedingly well.

But if this is the way of the future, I’m not too sure I want to be involved in it.

After taking off the headset, I remembered everyone else could see and hear me, while I couldn’t see or hear anything outside of what was shown in front of me. That makes me uneasy.

We are already so completely en-

grossed by our devices and the cyber world. Do we really need one more thing that will give us an excuse to shut off from the real world?

The nice thing about smart phones, tablets or laptops is that you can power them down, put them away and stop looking at the world beyond the screen and immediately be back in the real world. Even while using them, you can look up and be aware of your surroundings.

But with virtual reality, you are completely immersed. If this is the way of the future, I’m sure we’ll be able to smell and feel things too, pretty soon.

And just imagine a movie experienced through virtual reality.

I would hate to be in “Jaws,” “The Hunger Games” or “Pearl Harbor.” However, it would be pretty cool to travel to Paris or go deep sea diving without the associated costs or potential risks.

But that’s the thing. We’d be replacing those palpable experiences with fake, intangible ones. We already seem to have enough of a problem getting people to stay off their phones and live their lives. So why add another option to avoid each other?

We live in such a fascinating, captivating world already. We don’t need to experience it virtually when

it already is our reality.

Julia’s take: I don’t know what I was expecting when I went to try on a virtual reality helmet for the first time. As a glasses-wearer, 3-D movies have never really worked out for me and came off as gimmicky at best. VR didn’t seem like it would be any better.

The bulky headgear and headphones didn’t help much either, as far as first impressions go.

When the recordings actually started to play, however, my misgivings were quickly turned on their head.

I don’t think I’m ever going to forget my first glimpse at the dinosaur that came on screen. And I’m sure the attendant laughed at my loud gasp.

It just looked so real and awe-inspiring. I couldn’t help but think back to some conversations I’ve had with older generations about their first time watching Jurassic Park. The special effects in those movies were a gamechanger, they said, the first dinosaur that walked across the screen took their breath away.

As someone who’s grown up with amazing special effects in movies all my life, I’ve always had trouble imaging their awe. The wonder sounded so overthe-top.

I think I understand now. Or at least, this is the closest I’ll get to understanding.

Yes, there are still some issues I have with virtual reality as it is now. I

Read ‘Facebook, Samsung bring virtual reality to Avalon,’ Page 12. didn’t even realize how foggy my glasses had become until they took the headgear off, and it’s concerning how closed off your senses become during the experience.

But the potential for this technology is incredible, if only because of how “in the moment” it puts you. I can already imagine its uses for teaching, communicating, record-keeping and, of course, entertainment.

You could watch recordings of a family gathering, observe surgeries, travel all over the globe or get a front row seat to a coveted Broadway show as if you were actually there. If the technology would become cheap enough, it would be a boon to people who would otherwise be unable to have those experiences.

This virtual reality, instead of replacing our reality, can enhance it.

It’s only natural though that new technology will have its kinks and growing pains. I’m sure the first cars and computers were as scary as they were thrilling. But through some changes and use, they’ve become just another piece of mundane technology.

Give VR a try, if you haven’t already.

You might be surprised.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 9

NORWEGIAN’S

FREE AT SEA Book now & choose up to 5 FREE offers:

• UNLIMITED BEVERAGES* • SPECIALTY DINING* • SHORE EXCURSIONS* • FREE WIFI* • FRIENDS & FAMILY SAIL FREE*

Expedia Extras Get additional $50 onboard cash credit when you book a Balcony or Suite, ®

or additional $25 onboard cash credit when you book an Oceanview, Interior, or Studio!

400 92

Hol com b Br

400

Old M

ilton P

kwy

120

b Kim

a

Sta te

idge

Exit 7

(770) 415 1030 725 West Crossville Road, Suite 154, Roswell www.cruiseshipcenters.com/Roswell

Br Jon es B r

Exit 10

ll

Woods tock Rd

King Rd

OFFER ENDS JANUARY 31 st - CONTACT US TO BOOK TODAY Celebrating 5 years in Alpharetta and now open in Roswell!

Brid ge

(678) 712 5059 10945 State Bridge Road Suite 105, Alpharetta www.cruiseshipcenters.com/Alpharetta

*Offers applicable to booking dates Jan 1-31, 2017, 7-night or longer cruises. Not combinable with groups. Not combinable with categories IX, OX, BX, MX. New bookings only. Restrictions apply. Contact us for full terms and conditions. Norwegian Cruise Line is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

Ships’ registry: BAHAMAS and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ©2016 NCL Corporation Ltd.

NEWS

10 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

City leader explores tougher guidelines for Historic District Horton says building rules are not being applied uniformly

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. − Recent development within Roswell’s celebrated Historic District spurred a special agenda item Dec. 28 at a meeting of the city’s Community Development and Transportation Committee.

Councilman Don Horton initially called for discussion of a moratorium on development permits for an area along Mimosa Boulevard south of Magnolia to Ga. 120, including Bul-

loch Avenue. But, Horton backed off the proposal, opting instead for an examination of how architectural and building guidelines for the district can be strengthened.

“I just want to exercise my concern that we are not doing a lot to protect our historic area,” he told the gathering of City Council members. “I’ve seen areas of Roswell that have historic significance change rather dramatically, especially over the last two or three years.”

Horton said he doesn’t think the Historic District’s guidelines are being applied uniformly, and he would like the City Council to pursue a course to strengthen them.

The proposal comes on the heels of recent interest by Hedgewood Homes to buy the historic Mimosa Hall and its

Georgia Clinic Welcomes Dr. Britt Boyd to the Johns Creek location.

A long time North Fulton resident Dr. Boyd is Board Certified in Family Medicine with experience in minor trauma and urgent care as well as primary care.

Dr. Boyd is the new head of the Johns Creek location providing care for: • Immediate Urgent Care • Minor Emergencies • Lacerations • Injury/ Sports Injury • Minor Eye Injury • Lab, X-Ray and EKG Services • General Family Medicine • Physicals/Sports Physicals • Immunizations • Diabetes • Asthma Complete Physical Including Labs & EKG

$110

New Patient

(First Visit)

$50

Britt Boyd, M.D.

Flu Vaccine

$15

Sports Physicals

$25

Most Insurance and Medicare Accepted • Walk Ins Welcome

Call for Appointment 678-990-1831

11912 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat. 9am-1pm

surrounding 30 acres. Hedgewood principal partner Pam Session announced in December that Hedgewood would like to build 50 cottages on the property while preserving and maintaining the mansion and its surrounding gardens for the public.

Mimosa Hall is being marketed for a total of $7.85 million, the home and 9-acre estate at $3.85 million and the additional 20 acres for $4 million.

The site was recently placed on the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of “10 Places in Peril.”

Horton said one of the problems he sees with recent rulings by the Historic Preservation Commission, which oversees building issues in the Historic District, is that zoning rules are taking precedence over guidelines established for the district.

“I think what we need is a segment in the Historic Preservation Commission guidelines that indicates that if there is a conflict between the zoning requirements and the historic guidelines, the historic guidelines take precedence,” Horton said. “We’re looking at the guidelines as ‘guidelines,’ when in fact they should be adherences.”

He said guidelines, such as the distance between structures in a par-

I just want to exercise my concern that we are not doing a lot to protect our historic area. I’ve seen areas of Roswell that have historic significance change rather dramatically, especially over the last two or three years.”

Don Horton Roswell councilman ticular character area, are not being enforced. There are three new homes being built on Mimosa, he said, that don’t appear to be following the alignment called for in the guidelines.

“It’s the historic context we’re miss-

See GUIDELINES, Page 29

NEWS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 11

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com

Full Basement Perimeter Solution (over 100 feet) With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

150 OFF

$

Partial Perimeter Solution (under 100 feet)

With this offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 10 days after publication.

SERVICES:

FREE:

Tires Brakes Alignments Wheel Bearings CV Axles

Brake Check Alignment Check Parts Check Air Pressure Check

$39.95

FRONT END ALIGNMENT With Coupon. Cannot combine with any other offers. Expires Janurary 27, 2017.

770-751-9811

678-648-2013

502 N. Main St., Alpharetta www.campbelltirecompany.com

or

250 OFF

$

ct

FOUNDATION?

Family Owned and Servicing Alpharetta Since 1987

ne

WET/DAMP BASEMENT? or CRACKED

n Co

ROSWELL, Ga. – After five years of planning, Roswell has placed its final funding behind a plan to open a northwest corridor through a major area of the city’s northern part.

The City Council Dec. 28 approved $4.2 million to complete Sun Valley Drive, a project that will give traffic a throughway from Mansell Road to the heavily traveled Alpharetta Street (Ga. 9).

“It’s a big deal,” said Roswell Transportation Director Steve Acenbrak.

“It’s been sitting there. We have a road (Warsaw) that goes here and ends, and another road (Mansell) that goes here and ends. It’s been sitting that way forever. This is going to connect those roads.”

Plans to connect the two roads were first proposed at a workshop five years ago, but city officials didn’t know at that time how many complications they’d face.

The city had to break the project into two phases, first clearing a path through the trees, removing the rock from valley, installing culverts and building a retention pond. All told, the first phase ran up a tab of $1.45 million.

The second phase will include the actual roadwork linking the two roads.

Officials hope that the new road will relieve some of the congestion the city now suffers at Mansell Road and Ga. 9.

“It’s going to be huge,” Acenbrak said. “Plus the redevelopment opportunities will be great.”

To the west and northeast of the new roadway lie a number of small neighborhoods locked by cul de sacs.

Right now, these residents gain access by way of Warsaw Road to the south.

The new road will give the neighborhoods a nearby through street they can access from the north or the south. A roundabout will give them easy access into their neighborhoods.

Long before the area was developed, Sun Valley featured a small lake with a man-made beach where residents spent summer afternoons.

Planning for the road connection project goes back decades. When the area was developed for residential, the

Ga

New roadway to provide relief from Mansell Road congestion

.9

Roswell approves funding for final phase of Sun Valley connection

This is a plan drawing for the new Sun Valley Road connector which will provide a northwest passage from Mansell Road on the south to Ga. 9 on the north. The roundabout at bottom right will be situated where Warsaw Road currently ends.

city reserved a large chunk of the land for future use, a big goose-egg-shaped swath running northwest from Warsaw Road. Because the new connector roadway runs primarily through city-owned land, costs for obtaining right of way were virtually eliminated, Acenbrak said.

As part of the project, the surrounding area will be transformed into a

passive park with bike lanes, trails and sidewalks.

“That’s going to be the biggest new road in Roswell that I can recall,” Mayor Jere Wood said. “I don’t remember another road of this magnitude either during my term in office or (before)…

This is huge for the city of Roswell, and I think it’s a sign of things to come with the citizens’ approval of the TSPLOST.”

COMMUNITY

12 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Facebook, Samsung bring virtual reality to Avalon Users get to test headsets

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Imagine you’re able to put on a headset and almost immediately be transported to Africa where you’re face to face with elephants, or in outer space dodging comets or on the basketball court facing LeBron James.

Visitors at Avalon the last weeks of December were able to transport to those places through Facebook’s VR, or virtual reality, tour using Samsung’s Gear VR, which are virtual reality headsets that use the smart phone and technology built by Facebook’s Oculus team, and which might soon become our future.

The Facebook VR tour was a chance to bring the immersive experience to the public, according to Facebook spokesman Alan Cooper.

“The goal is to showcase how powerful and immersive the technology is,” Cooper said. “It’s one of those types of technologies that no matter how much you talk about it or show it to people through pictures or advertisements, you really grasp it when you’re in it.”

Once placing the headset on, all sounds and sights are focused on what is playing on the screen. The experience is called “Introduction to Virtual Reality” and is a series of 360 degree vignettes of different scenes, like meeting a dinosaur face-to-face, being center stage at Cirque du Soleil or taking a ride down a river.

The headset is used to virtually transport the person to different areas of the world.

“We’ve seen a big outpouring of support,” Cooper said. “People love the technology. We’ve had people come through ranging in age from 13 to 80 years old.

KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

It’s one of those things when you see it, you’re blown away. You’re not tethered to what you see and experience every day.”

Get Your “Out the Door” Low Price on Tires at ExtraMileTirePros.com

2875 Bethany Bend Milton, GA 30004 (At Bethany Village)

678-389-6462

d models including n a s e k a m l l a – g n i h t y r e v e x We fi We sell all tire brands.

Lowest price guaranteed. $19 EXPRESS EMISSIONS TESTING *See store for details

FREE ALIGNMENT CHECK +

$10 OFF

ALIGNMENT (if needed)

See store for details. Cannot combine with any other offers. Expires 2/3/17.

15 MINUTE VALVOLINE OIL CHANGE SPECIAL WITH FREE SEASONAL CHECK-UP

$24

95

Most cars/light trucks. Oil change includes up to 5 qts. of motor oil and new oil filter. Tax and disposal fee extra.

Cannot combine with any other offers. Expires 2/3/17.

15 MINUTE VALVOLINE

FULL SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE WITH FREE SEASONAL CHECK-UP

$5995

We Specialize in High-End Euros Most cars/light trucks. Oil change includes up to 5 qts. of motor oil and new oil filter. Tax and disposal fee extra.

Cannot combine with any other offers. Expires 2/3/17.

WINTER CAR CARE PACKAGE FULL SERVICE OIL & FILTER CHANGE, TIRE ROTATION, 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION, BRAKE INSPECTION, 30 POINT TRIP INSPECTION ALL REG. FOR 99.99 ONLY

$4998

Visit website or call for appointment.

Cannot combine with any other offers. Expires 2/3/17.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 13

PRESENTED BY VISIT ROSWELL CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

YOU’RE INVITED!

The

ROSWELL

Wedding Showcase Sunday, January 15, 2017 2:00pm - 4:30pm

DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta/Roswell 1075 Holcomb Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30076 770-640-3253 • Free Admission • Grand Prize Honeymoon* • Latest Wedding Fashions • Exciting Giveaways* *Must be present to win

Come plan your wedding

at our boutique wedding showcase and see the latest in bridal gowns, caterers, invitations, hotels, florists, photographers, music, decorators, reception centers, spa retreats, beauty specialists, and much more.

SPONSORED BY

14 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPORTS

Blessed Trinity junior football program excels in 2016 Teams post 29-1 overall record

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. – The Blessed Trinity junior football program, which includes teams for grades 5-8, compiled a 29-1 overall record this season, the best in program history. The 7th grade team finished the season undefeated.

With the success of Blessed Trinity at the varsity level, finishing as state runner-up last season, winners of two consecutive region titles and compiling a 61-17-1 under head coach Tim McFarlin, the Titans’ success in its feeder program could spell continued success at the varsity level in the years to come.

The 8th grade team, led by head coach Doug Harof, went 8-1 this season and outscored opponents by an average

The BT 8th grade team compiled an 8-1 record this season and won a league title. of 30 points per game.

The 8th grade team secured a league title with a 40-22 win over Wesleyan. Harof has compiled a 23-5 record and will return to the program next season to take over the helm of the 7th grade team.

Led by head coach Rusty Reed, the 7th grade team finished the season with an unblemished 10-0 record and was

BT’s 7th grade team went 10-0 this season. BT feeder program’s teams went 29-1 in 2016.

ranked No. 2 in Georgia by Born To Compete, a youth sports outlet. The team amassed over 4,000 yards of offense and outscored opponents by an average of over 30 points per game. Including last year, this season’s 7th grade team is 21-1 with the BT junior program.

The 6th grade program, led by head coach Will Hosea, posted a perfect 11-0 record and won the Forsyth County

Youth Football Association championship, beating Wesleyan 36-8 for the title. The team’s offense averaged 27 points per game while its stalwart defense allowed just 5 points per game.

Registration for Blessed Trinity’s feeder program, which includes grades 5-8, will open early spring. For more information, email btjuniortitans@ gmail.com.

St. Francis suffers first losses of season in Tournament of Champions Knights go 1-2 in tournament

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com MARIETTA, Ga. – The St. Francis Knights entered last week’s Tournament of Champions, held at Wheeler High, with an undefeated record. But against some of most prolific teams in the southeast, the Knights would go 1-2 in the tournament.

The Knights (11-2, 3-0) opened the tournament with an 82-75 win over New Manchester. Freshman Dwon Odom, who currently leads the Knights in scoring, led St. Francis with 19 points in the win. Fel-

low freshman Chase Ellis led the Knights with eight rebounds and added three assists. Ellis and junior Graham Owenby each had three blocks.

After starting the tournament with a win, the Knights fell in two close games, both decided in overtime.

In the Knights’ second game, St. Francis would fall to Columbia 88-86 in double overtime. The following day, the Knights fell to Lakewood (S.C.) 75-74 in overtime.

Though the Knights’ undefeated record ended in the tournament, they remain among the favorites to capture the Class A-Private state championship. The Knights have made an appearance in the state championship game the past four years.

The Knights’ high-powered offense is averaging 72 points per game through 13 games. Odom is averaging 17.2 points per game followed by Ellis with 14.2.

Odom and Ellis also lead the team in rebounds per game.

Defensively, Odom leads the Knights in steals, followed by senior Wallace Tucker and sophomore C.J. Riley. Owenby leads the team in blocks with 15.

The Knights will finish the regular season with 11 region games. St. Francis will be seeking its fifth straight region title.

In the Knights’ three region games of the season, they have beaten Walker, King’s Ridge and Mt. Paran, outscoring opponents 211-136.

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 15

Alpharetta boys buying in to new system Raiders start season 15-1 under first-year head coach

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Alpharetta Raiders boys basketball entered this season with a new head coach and a new system. Usually such changes would necessitate a transition year before winning seasons and success are to be expected. But if the Raiders’ start this year is any indication, the transition is complete and the success has started early.

The Raiders (15-1, 6-1) are leading the Region 7-AAAAAA standings and have just one loss as the 2016 portion of the season ended. The Raiders competed in the Deep South Classic in Snellville last week, winning the tournament title with a 3-0 record including wins over Mill Creek and Brookwood.

Alpharetta’s Ellis Merriweather was named the tournament MVP. First-year head coach Jason Dasinger said he is pleased with his team’s transition under his leadership.

“I can’t say enough for how well

Alpharetta won the Deep South Classic tournament in Snellville last week and has started the season with a 15-1 overall record. these kids have responded to a firstyear coach,” Dasinger said. “I may not be the easiest guy to play for at times, but we have all 14 guys buying in. I’m just steering the boat but they are making it go. I appreciate my guys and I’m glad they are seeing success.”

Dasinger said that the entirety of

Wishing you a Happy New Year full of... moDeRn SPiRit. Southern Soul.

e Your Favorit For more information call 770-640-3253 or visit us at www.visitroswellga.com

ingredients

his roster is contributing and that six players are averaging over nine points per game, a feat Dasinger aptly refers to as “crazy.”

“I think the reason we’re off to such a good start is because if someone is having an off night there is someone there to pick it up,” he said. “We never

know who our lead scorer is going to be that night.”

“Carlos [Carriere] is having a great year. For someone who has started the last three years and having a brand new coach and brand new system, he has bought in. Jaycee Horn was not here last year but is playing hard. David Swillum is taking a step back from playing as much as he had in the past but he stepped up to score 20 against Chattahoochee.”

“At the end of the day we have 1012 guys that are really good,” Dasinger said.

After the holiday break, the Raiders will refocus their attention back to region play.

The Raiders have played all region opponents except Northview, who they will face when they return to the court Jan. 5. The Raiders have a one-game lead over Pope in the region standings.

Alpharetta beat the Greyhounds 59-55 on Dec. 6.

“If these kids keep playing as hard as they are playing, [the region] will take care of itself,” Dasinger said. “We are off to a great start but it is our hope that we will continue to grow and get better as the season progresses, and we hope that we have not peaked yet.”

EE RE FR DCA IL CH

017

Recipe for 2

& directions

kage Entire pac 2 cups Dash t Assortmen te Add to ta s B len d ally L a yer L iber

ell CVB Visit Rosw Occasions & Weddings ite-seeing Tours & S w eries ts an d B re Resta ura n d Nature History an lture Arts & C u fa mily d an Frien ds

Spots are limited and going fast! Tell a friend!

Unlimited camps, FREE childcare, body diagnostics, nutrition and an awesome environment!

Everything you need to crush your New Year’s Resolution in one place!

Burnbootcamp.com/alpharetta-ga

Alpharetta 5950 North Point Parkway, Suite 120 – Opening January 2017

Burnbootcamp.com/roswell-ga

Roswell 12060 Crabapple Road – Opening February 2017

We always get it after the fact, after it happens. The neighbor sees it, an HOA gets a complaint and we respond to it and chase the property owners down.

Steve Zaring, Supervisor for Code Enforcement 16 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017

Forsyth Commission looks into regulating home rental policy Complaints from neighbors spark examination

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The use of residential homes for rental purposes on websites such as Airbnb was recently questioned by the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners.

At a work session Dec. 20, Director of Planning and Community Development Tom Brown said rentals are more common in the summer and around Lake Lanier. He said he was asked to look into the county’s regulations relating to rental of residential homes and living units.

The examination was sparked after a homeowner on Lake Lanier complained about a neighbor renting out their home to rowdy house guests.

“It appeared it was happening all the time. He lives right next door and can’t call the law,” said District 4 Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills. “He said everywhere he turns it is loud, partying and there is a big crowd of people.”

Supervisor for Code Enforcement Steve Zaring said the department gets about a dozen complaints a year relating to this practice. Since the advent of websites, such as Airbnb, where users find short-term lodging in people’s homes, the issues have occurred more frequently.

“Essentially the way we are running it right now, they could be renting it out for many weeks. There are no limits on it, and they’re not paying any business license. They’re not paying any hotel or motel tax,” Mills said. “They’re escaping all of the costs, and we don’t even have a

Essentially the way we are running it right now, they could be renting it out for many weeks. There are no limits on it, and they’re not paying any business license. They’re not paying any hotel or motel tax.”

Cindy Jones Mills District 4 Commissioner way for law enforcement or anyone else to track what they’re even doing. They say they’re renting it for a weekend, but their home is really a business.”

County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the county’s code doesn’t address this issue specifically.

Currently, the county defines a dwelling unit as, “one or more rooms connected together and constituting a separate, independent housekeeping establishment for use on a basis involving owner occupancy or rental or lease on a weekly, monthly or longer basis, with provisions for cooking, eating and sleeping, and physically set apart from

Not Quite Ready To Buy A Home?

Rent it now with the right (but not the obligation) to Purchase it in the future.

Ask me about the new Lease with a Right to Purchase Program.

Forsyth residents near Lake Lanier are upset with the amount of noise generated from people renting through Airbnb. any other rooms or dwelling units in the same structure.”

And the violations are hard to catch, Zaring said, because staff only can go by the definition in the county code.

Ultimately, the property owners are often out of town and are more interested in the money the rentals generate, Zaring said.

“We make them aware that they can’t rent it for anything less than the seven-day period,” he said. “They

UPPERCUTS

BARBER SHOP Tapers • Temp Fade • Hair Design

Linda W. Hall Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 3800 Mansell Rd, Ste 100 Alpharetta, GA 30022 (o) 770-642-0399 • (m) 770-570-6081 Linda.Hall@ColdwellBankerAtlanta.com *The Lease with Right to Purchase Program is offered and administered by an independent third party not affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and its representatives do not in any way represent or warrant any of the terms, conditions, or benefits of the Lease with a Right to Purchase Program. Applicant and property must meet certain eligibility requirements. Other terms and conditions apply. Please review all other terms and conditions of the program before proceeding. ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.

change it and it says it’s for seven days minimum. It’s time consuming and complicated for staff. We always get it after the fact, after it happens. The neighbor sees it, an HOA gets a complaint and we respond to it and chase the property owners down.”

Brown said he would look into any more complaints and come back with suggestions in the summer. He said other counties handle these issues similarly to Forsyth.

Tuesday Special: $10 Haircuts With This Ad Now Hiring Experienced Barber

10450 Medlock Bridge, Johns Creek • 347-557-5346

2014, 2015, 2016

Employment Based Immigration Specialists

• Temporary and CALL NOW: Permanent Visas 404-892-8300 • Family Based Immigration or • Green Cards email glee@leelawusa.com • Student Visas LeeLawUSA.com • Athletes and Entertainers 2520 Northwinds Pkwy. • Ste 450 • Alpharetta, GA 30009

BUSINESSPOSTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 17

Unwrench the housing cycle Starting fast in A recent story I just read has me looking at my 10- and 8-year-old boys in a whole new light. It turns out that the number of people still living with their parents between Geoff smith the ages of 18 to 34 Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com rose to its highest level in recorded history last month. The story didn’t say how many of those adult children were paying rent.

The story, published last week in the Wall Street Journal, based its numbers on census data analyzed by Trulia and said that almost 40 percent of all people between the ages of 18-34 still live with their parents. As a mortgage banker, that means there are a whole lot of potential customers that need to buy houses. As a father, that means I need as many of those customers as I can get or else I’m never going to be able to downsize out of my house and retire.

The housing industry is an incredibly reactive industry. The amount of activity in the different market segments depends on a number of cyclical factors all playing off one another. One of the biggest factors is the cyclical movement of buyers moving up the financial ladder.

As we all improve our financial lives by getting promoted at work, increasing our sales numbers or growing our small businesses, we tend to buy more expensive houses. We “move-up.”

But for us to move-up, we need buyers who are also moving up from their situations into ours. So, you might have a first-time homebuyer purchasing his starter home. That enables the couple living in that starter home to move up to their new home. This enables the family in that home to move up into its new home, which enables the

the new year

empty nesters to move back down to a smaller, lower maintenance home.

If one of those groups decides not to move up or down, you could see how it could clog the pipeline.

My friend Steve Beecham broke for me recently. He had a much more complex science of all of this and used this cycle to explain why housing inventory is so low in Atlanta right now.

He’s a long-time mortgage banker and well-known as a motivational speaker.

I don’t remember all of the particulars of his science, but he clearly put a lot of deep thought into it, and after reading the Journal report a couple months later, he was clearly onto something. If these millennials are staying in their parents’ basements, then they are not relieving the couples wanting to move up out of their starter homes. But it’s not just that these millennials are staying at home, when they do move out, they are more comfortable than previous generations in renting. So clearly, they are one wrench in the gears of Mr. Beecham’s described cycle.

But let’s not blame those poor millennials for everything. The financial collapse of 2008 also had a huge impact on this cycle. In one way, it kind of reversed it for many people who lost their jobs, or saw salary reductions

KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELING SHOWROOM GRAND OPENING SHOWROOM HOURS

M-W-F 9-5 • T-TH 9-6 • SAT 10-4

Call for an estimate 678.820.6882

RemodelingExpo.com HISTORIC ROSWELL

Corner – Atlanta St. and King St. 48 King St. • Roswell, GA 30075

S Sales & SService Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm Sat: By appointment Sun: Closed

5055 Hammond Industrial Dr. Suite B, Cumming, GA

770-887-RIDE (7433) www.topdoggolfcarts.com

at their current jobs and were forced backward – to move down into less expensive homes. Many of them are just getting back to where they were before the collapse but are still gun-shy about taking on a larger mortgage payment.

These theories all help to explain why home inventories are so low. But they also show how quickly the engine of activity could switch into high-gear.

Consumer confidence has jumped up and down for the last eight years. If consumers finally start to feel consistently confident in our economy, you could see millennials jump into homeownership at the same time existing homeowners are confident enough to want to move up. So far, the new administration seems to have that confidence up. It if continues, we could see a 2017 pumping heavy on all cylinders.

Of course, then we’ll have to figure out where all the new houses are going to come from. But that’s another story.

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

NORTHSIDE CHAPEL

Are you prepared to get off to a fast start in the New Year?

Now that the holiday season is over, it’s back to work for small business owners. Have you established all dick jones of your goals and Founder & President Jones Simply Sales objectives? Getting off to a fast start is very important for most small business owners to reach their annual objectives.

So how do you start fast in the new year?

Getting off to fast start is all about what can be done now! In other words, what are your goals for January? Do you need to contact all of your existing customers?

Is it more important to schedule meetings with new prospects? Is the time right to announce new products or services you are offering?

Hopefully you’ve spent the past few months putting together your plans for next year. If not, now is the time to do that! An overall plan should outline your annual objectives and strategies for achieving them, and also allows you to define what needs to get done now and what can be done later.

Everyone, including you, should have very specific objectives for the first month of the year.

And for every objective, there should be a list of tasks and activities to make them happen. The beginning of a new year isn’t about planning, it’s about executing. It’s about getting things done and gaining momentum that will build through the first quarter and set the tone for annual success. Getting off to a fast start in the new year is key to having a great year for your small business.

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

18 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

BUSINESSBRIEFS

The Sherry and Maria Team is growing

S.J. Gorowitz celebrates 25 years ALPHARETTA, Ga. — S.J. Gorowitz Accounting & Tax Services, P.C., a CPA firm that supports expanding and emerging businesses, recently announced that November 2016 was their 25th year in business.

“A quarter of a century is a long time for a small business to remain operational,” said founding principal and CEO Stacey Gorowitz. “Not only have we had our doors open for 25 years, but we’ve enjoyed continued growth throughout that time and have become a firm-of-choice for many businesses and individuals in Alpharetta and the surrounding areas.”

To commemorate the milestone anniversary, SJG published a list of the firm’s 25 accomplishments, an outline of the firm’s 25 service offerings and a commemoration to the 25 individuals and organizations who have contributed to the firm’s overall success.

In addition, they also hosted a special ribbon cutting Nov. 3 with the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce.

Muffley & Associates Real Estate now open Business name: Muffley & Associates Real Estate Owner: Mikel Muffley About: Top Atlanta residential real estate brokerage has expanded to Alpharetta with a third office. Whether customers are in the market to buy or sell a home or custom build their

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Sherry and Maria Team of real estate sellers recently added two new members - a listing manager and a listing specialist.

April Cotney, listing specialist, is the newest member of The Sherry Klisch and Maria Team. She focuses exclusively on selling homes.

Anissa Klisch also recently joined the team as a listing manager. In her role, Anissa manages on-line listings and production of marketing materials for each home.

The Sherry and Maria Team plans to add a buyer’s agent before the end of January. As Keller Williams Realty consultants, they serve all the North Atlanta suburbs. They can be contacted at info@ sherryandmariateam.com.

Harry Norman Realtors awards Susan Lombardo FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Harry Norman Realtors Forsyth County/ Lake Lanier recently congratulated Susan Lombardo for achieving Senior Marketing Consultant status.

The Senior Marketing Consultant designation is awarded to Harry Norman agents who have demonstrated distinguished achievements in the field of resiLombardo dential real estate.

To become a Senior Marketing Consultant, a

sales associate must maintain outstanding production levels, be named to their Board of Realtors Million Dollar Club and command a thorough knowledge of marketing, contract negotiations and finance. In awarding the SMC designation, Harry Norman Realtors also considers factors such as personal integrity, tireless commitment, an active company role, and involvement in the industry and the community.

Thrive co-working named national top 10 co-working space ALPHARETTA, Ga. —Thrive co-working was just named one of the top 10 co-working spaces in the United States by LiquidSpace.

“We are flattered and honored to have been recognized. It is just so fun to see the friendships and business relationships develop here, which when it comes down to it, is what people are looking for most,” said Ramon Gonzalez, co-founder and CEO of Thrive.

Co-working spaces are popping up all over the country. Unlike traditional office space or virtual offices, co-working spaces are more casual and flexible. They typically don’t require members to sign a lease to join.

Like many other co-working spaces, Thrive provides a membership based community that offers a communal working environment. Members enjoy free coffee, snacks and networking events at the space. In addition, individual office rooms can be rented out for more privacy.

“We are also so excited about the future and the opening of our next location in downtown Alpharetta early 2017,” Ramon said. “We have lots of great things in the works over there. People are really going to love it.”

NEWBUSINESSSPOtlight

dream home in North Fulton, their team of expert real estate sales professionals will get the job done. From providing top listings, up-to-date market data and expert advice, Muffley & Associates Real Estate delivers results.

Opened: Dec. 13, 2016 Address: 217 Roswell St., Alpharetta, GA 30009 Phone: 470-509-4800 Website: www.muffleyhomes.com

Odyssey Escape Game opens in Alpharetta Business name: Odyssey Escape Game Owner: Michael Cook About: Enjoy Atlanta’s premiere Escape Game experience. Odyssey Escape Game is perfect for corporate

team-building events or some family fun with big smiles and great memories. Groups of all sizes are welcome.

Opened: Nov. 21, 2016 Address: 1111 Alderman Drive, Building 200, Suite 210, Alpharetta GA 30005 Phone: 678-358-4060 Website: www.odysseyescapegame.com

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 19

20 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR MOM SENSE

‘FAREWELL PERFORMANCE OF MARK TWAIN AND MR. CLEMENS’

Kurt H. Sutton will portray both the man and the myth by having Mark Twain and Samuel L. Clemens on stage at the same time in an entertaining, interactive show, featuring Twain’s hilarious tall tales and witty humor as well as music from Clemens’ time period.

This one-night performance will be Saturday, Jan. 7, 8 p.m., at the Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. Tickets are $15 and are available at playhousecumming.com Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton.com/Calendar.

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING:

EVENTS:

MILTON

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY VOLUNTEERING

What: Milton Grows Green, with Casey Tree Experts and the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation, are hosting a Christmas tree recycling event. Or, for a $15 fee, Boy Scout Troop 841 will pick up your tree.

When: Dec. 26-Jan. 7 Where: Scottsdale Farms, Milton High School and Home Depot, Milton More info: facebook.com/ events/1826737317602568

FORSYTH COUNTY

What: Keep Forsyth County Beautiful invites residents to recycle their Christmas trees during the annual ‘Bring One for the Chipper’ event. Wood chips from recycled trees are available first-come, first served.

When: Dec. 26-Jan. 7 Where: Six locations across Forsyth County More info: keepforsythcountybeautiful. com

ROSWELL

What: Residents dropping off trees to recycle can also get free seed packets, while supplies last. The trees will be chipped into mulch, which will be available at no charge.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: The Home Depot parking lot, 870 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

ALPHARETTA

What: Drop off a Christmas tree to recycle and get free garden seeds in exchange, while supplies last. Free mulch is also available with a filled out request form, available online.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: The Home Depot parking lot, 5300 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta More info and request form: alpharetta. ga.us

What: Find out how to volunteer at and support Habitat for Humanity during this 30-minute volunteer information session.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 10:30-11 a.m.

Where: Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 11060 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell More info and registration: suburbanatlantarestores.org/ volunteer

RUMC JOB NETWORKING

What: Get ahead in the job market with these free workshops at 12:30 p.m., and a 5 p.m. orientation and dinner, followed by an evening keynote speaker or Mini Job Fair. Complete agenda online.

When: Monday, Jan. 9, 12:30-9 p.m.

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

MCGINNIS FERRY ROAD WIDENING OPEN HOUSE

What: The public is invited any time to this informal open house to learn about the proposed project to widen McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek and Forsyth County.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 5-8 p.m.

Where: Forsyth Conference Center, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming More info: johnscreekga.gov or forsythco.com

AGING WELL WORKSHOP

What: Learn how to juggle raising a family while taking care of parents in this free workshop. Topics include finances, assisted living, insurance, downsizing, moving and more.

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

Where: Renaissance on Peachtree, 3755 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta More info: gnfcc.com

What: New and seasoned mothers are invited to learn about “What Every Pediatrician Wants You to Know,” by guest speaker Dr. Margaret Boudreaux. Complementary coffee will be available.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 8 a.m.

Where: Pinecrest Academy, 951 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming More info: pinecrestacademy.org or mjboone1024@gmail.com

PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES

What: Children ages 3-6 can learn about the natural and historical environment at Autrey Mill. A brief nature hike and a hands-on activity or craft is included. Parent or guardian must accompany child.

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

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

DIVORCE WORKSHOP

What: Women considering divorce or in the early stages of divorce are invited to this free workshop to provide legal, emotional and financial support during the process.

When: Thursday, Jan. 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: 695 Mansell Road, Suite 120, Rowell More info and registration: secondsaturday.com or 770-353-6370

AVALON ON ICE

What: Ice skate on the Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza. Watch for theme nights and enjoy warm, tasty treats rink side. Enjoy special events throughout the season and sign up for ice skating lessons.

When: Through Jan. 22, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: general admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER: HOLIDAY SHOW

What: Get into the holiday spirit with great local artwork at this annual Holiday Show. View works in a variety of mediums, including acrylic, oil, watercolor, clay and more.

When: Through Jan. 13, times vary Where: Roswell Visual Arts Center, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: GEORGE GRAY

What: Come see the works of lifetime artist and Johns Creek resident George Gray. Gray has spent over 40 years of photo retouching by hand.

When: Jan. 2-30, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: behance.net/georgegray

‘GREETINGS FRIEND YOUR KIND ASSISTANCE IS REQUIRED’

What: When retired schoolteacher Rhonda Charles opens an email in her spam folder, the journey of a lifetime begins.

This is the world premiere comedy from Atlanta playwright Topher Payne.

When: Jan. 5-Jan. 22, times vary Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell Cost: tickets start at $20 More info and tickets: get.org

LIBRARY EVENTS: ALPHARETTA LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: Come support the library and library programs by shopping at the Friends of the Alpharetta Library book sale on the library porch and in the Friends Bookstore.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

THE ZOO LIBRARY

What: Learn about 3-4 different animals in a hands-on, one-on-one interaction and discussion. The interactive experiences are designed by a Georgia Certified Educator.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m.-noon Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info and registration: afpls.org

SPEECHCRAFT WORKSHOPS/ GAVEL CLUB

What: In a partnership with Alpharetta Toastmasters, adults and teens can learn how to improve and master the art of public speaking in this free workshop.

When: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2:30-4 p.m.

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

COLLEGE ADIMISSIONS ESSAY SEMINAR

What: Learn the ins and outs of preparing and writing for the college admissions essay portion. College Admissions Counselor Wendy Hayes will be available for help and to answer questions.

When: Monday, Jan. 9, 6-8 p.m.

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

NORTHEAST/SPRUILL OAKS BOOK CLUB

What: Join this month’s book club for a discussion of Elizabeth Strout’s “Olive Kitteridge,” a series of interconnected short stories adapted by HBO into a miniseries. New members are welcome.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info: karen.swenson@ fultoncountyga.gov or 770-360-8820

CALENDAR

MEMOIR WRITING CLASS

What: Learn how to craft a memoir with Suzanne Rosenwasser, author of “Manhasset Stories: A Baby Boomer Looks Back.”

When: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info and registration: milton. branch@fultoncountyga.gov

MAKING SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS WORKSHOP

What: Get a concrete plan for exploring or transitioning into a new career or lifestyle change, like having a baby, starting retirement or working with relationships. Reservations required.

When: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m.

Where: Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek More info and registration: afpls.org

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: COFFEE, CAKE AND TRUE ISLAM

What: Drop in any time at this weekly open house to have an open and informal dialogue about Islam to demystify misconceptions and build relationships. Food and drinks will be available.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 5 p.m.

Where: Baitul Ata Mosque, 1800 Willow Trail Parkway NW, Norcross More info: facebook.com/Ahmadiyya MuslimCommunityGAChapter

CROSS

What: For two nights only, Act3 Productions will perform CROSS, by Jesse Cramer. A young man returns to his former camp leader to question what they shared one summer seven years ago.

When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 8 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 8, 3 p.m.

Where: 6285 Roswell Road NE, Sandy Springs Cost: $10 More info: act3productions.org

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 21

Get outside Georgia:

Big Creek Greenway offers activities for all ages

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Seniors looking to get some fresh air or exercise need look no farther than their local parks. Forsyth and Fulton county parks offer a plethora of activities for any age, especially the Big Creek Greenway located in both counties.

A greenway is a linear park with 12-foot wide paths. Visitors are welcome to walk, jog, bike or roller blade along a scenic route that meanders along the Big Creek and through woodlands. While on the trails, visitors may even catch a glimpse of local wildlife, including deer, ducks and geese.

The greenway can help people keep an active lifestyle, which is important for everyone as they age, said Laura Pate, the marketing and community relations manager for the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department.

Exercise for seniors doesn’t just help physically with weight control or combatting health conditions. It also helps mentally and improves overall well-being, including providing more energy, improved mood and better sleep.

“Staying active, staying engaged, and looking for those adventures and opportunities to be outside really keeps seniors’ attitudes great, keeps physical fitness good and keeps motivation up,” said Amy Rickman, a spokesperson for the Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department. “Out on the greenway, they can be on their own to explore, or they can go out with friends for some social activity.

It’s great for fitness, because you don’t feel like you’re working out. You just

Big Creek Greenway Access Points Forsyth County • 5120 Bethelview Road • 4110 Carolene Way at Fowler Park • 1622 McFarland Parkway • 5259 Union Hill Road Fulton County • Alpharetta YMCA, 3655 Preston Ridge Road • Rock Mill Park, 3100 Kimball Bridge Road • Haynes Bridge Road Behind Ethan Allen, 6800 North Point Parkway • 3281 Marconi Drive

feel like you’re outside enjoying the day, enjoying nature and enjoying the weather.”

Currently, the Big Creek Greenway has two trail sections split between Forsyth and Fulton counties. Future plans will eventually connect the two portions into one long path.

The Fulton County section extends a little over eight miles, from Windward Parkway to Mansell Road.

“The whole 8.2 mile concrete trail is very easily accessed and walkable,” said Rickman. “We also have a trail system at Wills Park that’s great for walking.”

The Forsyth County Greenway additionally spans a total of 9.6 miles from McFarland Parkway and Kelly Mill Road, with future plans to extend it to approximately 15 miles.

One of the easier, flatter trials to

walk includes the one at Fowler Park, according to Pate.

Fowler Park additionally has an indoor walking track, for people who still want to exercise on a cold or rainy day. Anyone age 55 and older can enjoy a free access pass to the indoor walking trail at Fowler Park or at any of the other parks in Forsyth County.

Forsyth and Fulton counties also have multiple fitness classes and programs specifically tailored for people 55 years and older. To explore some of the available options, visit parks. forsythco.com, roswellgov.com, johnscreekga.gov, cityofmiltonga.us or alpharetta.ga.us/community/services/ senior-activities.

To learn more about the Big Creek Greenway, including maps and parking, visit bigcreekgreenway.com.

22 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

22 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017

Sponsored Section

Come find your ideal destination, life and home at the Ideal-LIVING Real Estate Expo Looking for the ideal location or perfect getaway for yourself and your family?

Come tour the ideal places and communities from the mountains to the coast without leaving the perimeter. At the ideal-LIVING Expo, you’re invited to attend seminars and workshops led by relocation experts that can help make your next move…well, ideal.

While living in Atlanta, GA, Sharon and Herb Hammond decided it was time to make a move. “You can’t take anything for granted. I want to make sure that we live our remaining years together having a fun time. We both worked hard all of our lives and it’s time to enjoy the fruits of our labors. We started receiving Ideal-Living magazine and then went to the Expo. We got a Choose Your Ideal Place Guide and map, filled out the questionnaire about what we were looking for in our next community, and discovered there were different things that each of

us wanted. It really helped us narrow our options. The Ideal-LIVING process worked perfectly for us.”

Ideal-LIVING offers a turn-key solution that makes it easy for you to find your ideal destination, life and home. Since 1989, they have been helped thousands of people each year make the right move.

At the ideal-LIVING Real Estate Expo, you can view exhibits, meet community representatives, attend presentations and conveniently compare many unique communities from the Carolinas, Florida, Georgia, Bahamas, and more.

On Sunday afternoon, Southern Living magazine is hosting a Brunch Sampling including southern biscuits with jam, assorted mini quiche bites, Southern Living cinnamon bites, and spanikopita!

Admission to the Expo is free and there’s no obligation. Take ideal a step for express check-in. Call 888-827-6993 or go to www.ideal.LIVING.com.

Search from the Coast

to the Mountains, Without Leaving the Perimeter

40 EXPLORE OVER

IDEAL

COMMUNITIES

JANUARY 28 - 29 | Crowne plaza Ravinia 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA EXPO HOURS: Sat 10am-5pm Sun 11am-3pm EST-1966

•

E X P O PA S S

•

Bring Your Friends

Join us on Sunday Southern Living Brunch Sampling 11am

Including southern biscuits with jam, assorted mini quiche bites, Southern Living cinnamon bites and spanikopita!

Please RSVP for this special event.

Enjoy a Southern Living Presentation 12pm

Find your ideal destination, life and home EXPO HOURS: Sat 10am-5pm Sun 11am-3pm

JANUARY 28 - 29 | Crowne plaza Ravinia 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA

RSVP: ideal-living.com/aP 888-827-6993

Conveniently Compare the best communities throughout the south

North Carolina georgia • Florida South carolina Bahamas

Real Estate Report • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 23

Jumpstart your spring home sale

By Eve Jones Harry Norman Realtors A little-known fact: the first three weeks are the most critical when selling your home. Why is that?

Because new listings initially generate a lot of excitement among agents and buyers.

There are many buyers Jones out there waiting for the right home to magically appear on the market.

And, agents are checking the multiple listing service “hot sheets” (new listings) every day. With all this attention, you had better be ready! So, let’s talk about the “S” word.

If you’ve ever watched any program on HGTV, you know what “staging” is, but there some new thinking about how homes should be staged today.

According to Realtor® Magazine (a NAR publication), no longer are designers recommending the “stripped-down, beige-heavy stylings that are as boring as they are forgettable. Staging today is giving way to a livelier vision encom-

passing, more trendy inviting interiors and exteriors that are intended to make a listing more marketable.”

The boring has been traded in for adding back some personality in the form of bold pops of color, updated fabrics, accessories and furnishings while still appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Stayed antiques and fine oil paintings do not appeal to younger home buyers.

Often sellers ready to downsize are resistant to make many changes or updates to appeal to the new generation of buyers, but they are only hurting themselves (and their pocketbook).

Other opportunities for engaging home buyers is to focus on outdoor spaces. Outdoor living is the latest item on the buyer’s want list, so make the most out of your deck or patio space by staging a dining space, lounging space and even add a fire pit.

So, staging addresses the concept that “real estate is a beauty contest”.

But, I’d like to add that, “beauty is only skin deep”.

Yes, your home should look good but, beneath the surface are some of the most important features of a home;

Often sellers ready to downsize are resistant to make many changes or updates to appeal to the new generation of buyers, but they are only hurting themselves (and their pocketbook). Other opportunities for engaging home buyers is to focus on outdoor spaces. mechanical/HVAC systems, roof, structural integrity, siding and trim condition, hot water heaters, windows etc.

This is the non-sexy stuff that, if left to chance, can kill a deal. Many of the homes in North Fulton are advancing to 20+ years in age and require maintenance and systems replacements. Some sellers mistake replacing an 18 year old HVAC unit or replacing/painting wood rot for an “upgrade”. These are not upgrades.

They are simply maintenance. Buyers do not want to fix your problems that should have been addressed long

ago.

Here’s where a full-service Realtor can really earn his/her commission on the front-end of a sale by finding an inspector who can help you identify issues before you get all those agents and buyers excited about your home! And, that agent will have reliable contractors to do the repairs.

Both staging and addressing maintenance issues are ways to jumpstart a smooth, easy, profitable home sale and the thing that may keep the buyer “in -love” with your home from the market introduction to the closing table.

24 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Real Estate Report • Sponsored Section

Coldwell Banker® highlights trends shaping the luxury Real Estate landscape

By Kathy Weeks Managing Broker Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Coldwell Banker Real Estate recently sat down with a group of highly respected and accomplished agents from across the country to talk about the latest developments within the luxury residential real estate Weeks market. They revealed a number of emerging trends, including differing generational and cultural preferences, as well as lifestyle and design choices.

One of the most surprising observations was that Baby Boomers are no longer downsizing – they’re “rightsizing.”

Whereas affluent buyers at or nearing retirement age used to want to move out of their large homes and into luxury condos, many are instead opting for smaller homes that afford them the same simplified lifestyle but with greater privacy. One-level living, master-on-main or an elevator are among the sought-after features for this

age group.

Younger buyers, on the other hand, are interested in large, creative spaces that offer the ultimate flexibility with regards to live/work functionality.

Millennial and Gen X home buyers are more likely to take advantage of technology that enables them to live and work anywhere they desire, and want the size and space to comfortably do so.

No matter the generation, high-networth buyers are looking for homes incorporating design elements that maximize the enjoyment of outdoor spaces.

These luxury properties not only have pools and patios, but space for truly living outside – covered and uncovered living areas, fireplaces, kitchens, integrated grills and more.

Conversely, it’s not nature that’s impacting interior spaces, but manmade materials. Marble, granite, wood and stone are still popular, but more and more affluent buyers desire the low-maintenance and high performance of manufactured materials like quartz countertops, wood-look porcelain tile floors and plastic-composite decking.

Foreign buyers are also driving new trends in luxury homes. Georgia is a top-ten state for international home buyers in the U.S., according to the

No matter the generation, high-net-worth buyers are looking for homes incorporating design elements that maximize the enjoyment of outdoor spaces. These luxury properties not only have pools and patios, but space for truly living outside – covered and uncovered living areas, fireplaces, kitchens, integrated grills and more.

2016 National Association of Realtors® Profile of International Activity in U.S. Residential Real Estate, and affluent homeowners moving here from other countries have unique preferences.

One of the features of greatest importance to foreign home buyers is having dedicated living space for extended family. More than a guest room, they want private quarters to provide aging family members and long-term guests their own space for sleeping, dining, preparing meals and relaxing.

Other rising luxury market trends the experts mentioned include massive

his-and-hers closets, dual home offices and privileges gained by investing in real estate. To read the complete article, visit PreviewsInsideOut.com.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Alpharetta office has sales associates who are experts in Atlanta’s luxury market and can help you quickly turn your dream into reality.

If you’ve been thinking of putting your house on the market, now is a great time. We have buyers searching for properties, and we’d love to sell them your home! Contact our office today at 770.642.0399.

QUESTION: How do I submit my news to the paper?

The answer is easy, NewsLink.NorthFulton.com Boost your brand, reach the right audience and get noticed!

Upload unlimited press releases using Appen Media Group’s online portal, NewsLink.

Only NewsLink submissions are reviewed by our newsroom for possible use. NorthFulton.com is one of the highest hit local/regional websites with over 44,100 unique local visitors and 80,000 + unique page views per month and rapidly increasing. Call 770-442-3278 for questions or assistence.

Real Estate Report • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 25

ColdwellBankerHomes.com 85,000 Agents | 3,000 Offices on 6 Continents | 110-Year Legacy AR GE! 7 C RA GA

Alpharetta / 5BR/4.5BA / $429,900 Sandra Wilson / 678-520-9102 4950 Oakmont Bend FMLS# 5725239 on CBHomes.com

Sandy Springs / 6BR/6.2BA / $949,900 Rita Lewis / 770-789-5137 8345 Grogans Ferry Rd FMLS# 5765724 on CBHomes.com

Roswell / 4/4.1 / $675,000 Beverly Younkins / 770-330-2530 675 Willow Oak Way FMLS# 5763048 on CBHomes.com

Alpharetta / 5BR / 4BA / $519,900 Judy Linderman / 678-592-5607 4140 Breckenridge Ct – Highlands @ Park Bridge FMLS# 5786447 on CBHomes.com

Marietta / 6/4 / $420,000 Sue Forsythe – 770-630-4901 3934 Summer Breeze Court FMLS# 5740390 on CBHomes.com

Berkeley Lake / 4BR/4.1BA / $834,900 Michelle Healy / 678-549-6111 4245 Central River Park FMLS# 5739518 on CBHomes.com

Gainesville / 5/4 / $598,500 Jill Bernard / 404-867-2760 12005 Castleton Court FMLS# 5786161 on CBHomes.com

W !

NE ICE PR

Alpharetta / 5BR/3.5BA / $407,500 Judy Linderman / 678-592-5607 6349 Kristensen Court FMLS# 5756118 on CBHomes.com

R T DE AC UN NTR CO

Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact me today!

Alpharetta / 4BR/3.5BA / $475,000 Tarran Craver / 770-597-9118 225 Leafwing Court FMLS# 5766810 on CBHomes.com

Roswell / 3BR/2.5BA / $340,000 Susan Craig / 678-6564909 2630 Camden Glen Court FMLS# 5757423 on CBHomes.com

Johns Creek / 6BR / 8BA Full / 2BA Half $2,499,999 Pam Putnam / 770-335-5118 5295 Chelsen Wood Drive Search FMLS# 5738081 on CBHomes.com

Kathy Weeks, Managing Broker 704-491-1113

Alpharetta/North Point 3800 Mansell Rd., Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 | 770.642.0399

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 12132ATL_4/16

Administered by American Home Shield

WE

26 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

}

}

connect

Real Estate Report • Sponsored Section

like:

facebook.com/ appenmediagroup

follow:

twitter.com/northfulton

visit:

northfulton.com forsythherald.com

&

northsidewoman.com

APPEN MEDIA GROUP

Tips for appealing to potential homebuyers With 2016 behind us, now is the time to take advantage of a fresh year and prepare your home for the the 2017 spring market. The key to this is making your home a space that is going to appeal to a potential homebuyer.

Boost curb appeal The first thing that a potential homebuyer will see is the front of your home.

First impressions are key -- this is what sets the standards for the home and leads the potential homebuyer to the next step of inquiring on your property. A few quick tips for boosting your curb appeal are as follows: Most importantly, the landscaping this is a great way to enhance the appearance of your home by bringing it to life.

Pressure washing or painting are both great ways to brighten and refresh the overall appearance of your home as weather and change of seasons can age its appearance.

Get your house sparkling clean With the new year, there is not a better time to declutter your home than now. This not only is great for a potential buyer but helps make the move easier when you find your new home.

Cleaning out storage closets, drawers and hidden corners is the key to preparing your home for the market along with open houses and showings.

Stage your home

With the new year, there is not a better time to declutter your home than now.

This not only is great for a potential buyer but helps make the move easier when you find your new home.

If you have already moved and your home is vacant, or feel that you need to have an updated look to keep up with the market, then home staging could be a great option for you.

This can translate to a higher sales price, fewer days on market and helps the buyer visualize their lifestyle in the space.

Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results.

Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

Real Estate Report • Sponsored Section

Crye-Leike Continues to grow in the Atlanta market Now open in Gainesville

It’s been eleven years since Harold Crye, CEO of Crye-Leike Real Estate, expanded the company’s footprint into the Atlanta metro area. The fourth largest privately owned real estate company in the nation recently opened its eleventh office in the Atlanta Metro area at 956A Dawsonville Highway, Suite 301 in Gainesville.

Crye-Leike is pleased to welcome Christy Crumbley as the new Managing Broker. Crye-Leike’s Gainesville office is currently open for business and ready to assist clients with all of their real estate buying and selling needs in Hall, Lumpkin, Dawson and surrounding counties. The office will host a grand opening ceremony this fall.

“The Atlanta real estate market is strong and greatly improving like many of the markets Crye-Leike serves,” said Cofounder and CEO Harold Crye. “We see a lot of potential for the local market and are very happy to be expanding in and around the Atlanta area with additional offices opening soon in Lawrenceville, Dahlonega and Marietta.”

“Being a full-service real estate brokerage firm, our goal is to make it convenient for our customers and sales associates to utilize all of our services

before, during and after a home purchase by offering reliable, efficient and convenient services for today’s busy lifestyles,” said Steve Brown, president of Crye-Leike Residential Sales.

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services had a great year in 2015 achieving $5.7 billion in sales volume.

Over a nine-state region, 3000 highly skilled Crye-Leike agents sold 31,400 properties. Crye-Leike’s sales outperformed the national average in the real estate market. Crye-Leike Atlanta has sales offices in Alpharetta/ Roswell, Norcross, Cartersville, Cumming, McDonough, Riverdale, Smyrna/ Vinings, Johns Creek and Woodstock in addition to a Residential Property Management, Commercial and Relocation division.

As a full service real estate company, Crye-Leike offers real estate and related services, including: relocation services; commercial business and investment real estate services; property leasing and management services; insurance services; title & closing services; mortgage services; home warranty services; home services; auction services; business brokerage services; REO services for bank-owned & foreclosed properties and real estate schools.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 27

28 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 pay the first month’s rent, $1,200, upfront.

The suspect then sent a check for $6,200 to deposit and requested that

the $5,000 difference be sent to a different account.

The woman did so, but the original check bounced, while the $5,000 went through.

She talked to her bank about the incident and was reimbursed for the money before filing a police report.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION OPEN HOUSE Forsyth County A Public Information Open House for P.I. No. 0004634 From Sargent Road to Union Hill Road/Ronald Reagan Boulevard (location)On January 10, 2017, at the Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College, 3410 Ronald Reagan Boulevard, Cumming, Georgia 30041, Forsyth County, in cooperation with the City of Alpharetta, the City of Johns Creek, and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will hold a Public Information Open House concerning P.I. No. 0004634 in Forsyth County.

The proposed project would consist of the widening of McGinnis Ferry Road from Sargent Road to Union Hill Road/Ronald Reagan Blvd located on the Fulton County line in southern Forsyth County. This project has been identified as part of Forsyth County’s SPLOST and Transportation Bond program. The length of the proposed project is approximately 4.58 miles. The proposed design includes two lanes in each direction with a 20-foot raised median.

The design speed is 45 mph. The proposed outside shoulder would be a 16-foot urban shoulder on the north side containing curb and gutter with a 10 foot multi-use path and on the south side would be a 12-foot urban shoulder containing curb and gutter with 5-foot sidewalks. Stage construction and traffic control devices will be utilized to maintain traffic during construction.

Temporary lane closures may be required during stage construction.

The Open House will be conducted between the hours of 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. The Open House will be informal and the public is invited to attend anytime during these hours. There will be no formal presentation. A court reporter will be available to allow the public an opportunity to make verbal comments about the project.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information: The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by calling Forsyth County Engineering Department, at (770) 781-2165.

Written statements will be accepted concerning this project until January 20, 2017. Written statements may be submitted to: Mr. Tim Allen Assistant Director, Forsyth County Engineering Department 110 E. Main Street, Suite 120 Cumming, Georgia 30040 The displays at the public open house will be available for review until January 20, 2017 at the Forsyth County Engineering Department, 110 E. Main Street, Cumming, Georgia 30040. The meeting transcript, once prepared, will be available at this same location.

Man’s identity stolen, $800 taken from bank JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man reported a case of identity fraud Dec. 20 when he noticed multiple unauthorized transactions to his bank account.

The man had received a letter in the mail Sept. 22 from an orthopedics practice saying that someone had attempted to use his personal information to open an account with them.

Three months later, Dec. 20, the man received a letter from his bank saying that his savings account had been over drafted multiple times.

When he looked into his account,

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-16-AB-32 PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers January 5, 2017 3:00 P.M. PURPOSE Convenience Store Beer & Wine – Sunday Sales APPLICANT Abrk Mansell, LLC d/b/a B.P. Mansell 1630 Mansell Rd. Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Owner Abrk Mansell, LLC Registered Agent Makhtor Kamara

the man found four suspicious transactions that he had not made. They were made Dec. 11-12, for about $200 each, and they all originated from California.

Car broken into during dog walk JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 24 that someone had stolen her belongings from her car.

The woman had parked the car, her brother’s silver Acura MDX, near the playground at Ocee Park so that she could walk her dog. She had left her white Coach purse behind the driver’s seat, and locked the car using a remote before leaving.

She did not notice anything amiss until she returned home and failed to find her purse. During her search, she found out that the driver’s side door does not lock when using the remote.

The purse included her wallet, charger, makeup and $500 cash.

Motorcycle stolen while man stationed in N.D. JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man reported Dec. 24 that his motorcycle was missing.

The motorcycle was being stored at Piney Ridge Walk and went missing Dec. 15. The owner, a U.S. Air Force serviceman currently stationed in North Dakota, had left the vehicle with his friend.

The friend had been storing the motorcycle in his garage, but began storing it outside when he bought a new car. A few days later, it went missing, and he immediately alerted the owner.

Share your opinions

NorthFulton.com

CITY OF ROSWELL NOTICE OF OPENING AND CLOSING DATES FOR CANDIDATES TO QUALIFY FOR SPECIAL ELECTION TO BE HELD MARCH 21, 2017 Any qualified elector desiring to run for the remaining term of office of City Councilmember for Post 4 in the City of Roswell in the special election to be held on March 21, 2017, must file for candidacy for the position at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., January 23 through January 27, 2017. Qualifying fee for candidacy is as follows: Councilmember - $540.00 Kay G. Love City Administrator

Jere Wood Mayor

SPORTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | January 5, 2017 | 29

Guidelines: Joshua Dobbs ends memorable career at Tennessee Continued from Page 10 ing here,” Horton said.

City Manager Kay Love said one of the ways to give the guidelines more teeth would be to add specific details to the city code.

Councilman Mike Palermo said he had brought up the same issue earlier in the year, but nothing had come of it. He said, with the City Council’s support, staff could draw up proposals to codify those guidelines deemed most important and urgent.

“If we don’t treat this with urgency, and we don’t see a true need, we’re not going to make the progress we need,” Palermo said.

Horton said he discussed Roswell’s historic preservation guidelines with the division of historic preservation at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and was told the regulations are sound and some of the best available.

“The issue here is: Why are they not being applied?” Horton said. “It’s in the code, and the HPC needs to be applying those guidelines.”

The only caveat, he said, is if the city divided the Historic District into separate “character areas” and provided some allowances for one area from another.

Councilman Marcelo Zapata recommended drafting new codes for the Historic District making the guidelines dominant over considerations of zoning or the Unified Development Code.

“The guidelines should be the ‘king,’ and the UDC should be the ‘queen,’” he said.

Alpharetta H.S. grad shines in bowl game

By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Joshua Dobbs, a 2012 graduate of Alpharetta, ended his collegiate career with the University of Tennessee Friday in the Music City Bowl where he was named the game’s MVP after throwing for 291 yards and rushing for 118 yards with four total touchdowns.

Dobbs, who has been the most memorable Tennessee quarterback in recent years, is also fondly remembered for his time with Alpharetta.

Dobbs transferred from Wesleyan to Alpharetta prior to his junior season, and he led the Raiders to a 16-7 record in 2012-13 under then head coach Jason Dukes. In his senior season, Dobbs threw for 3,625 yards with 25 touchdowns and rushed for 419 with 10 rushing touchdowns.

Jacob Nichols, currently the head coach for the Raiders, entered his first season as offensive coordinator during Dobbs’ senior season. Nichols said Dobbs is fondly remembered for his time at Alpharetta.

“On the field, [Dobbs] was a oncein-a-lifetime player,” Nichols said. He is a phenomenal athlete and one of those quarterbacks where you felt comfortable in any situation or calling any play.”

“He was always a hard worker. He earned the trust of his teammates by setting the example. He wasn’t always the most vocal leader, but he didn’t have to be because his performance

Joshua Dobbs is fifth all-time at Tennessee in passing yards and 12th alltime in the SEC for total touchdowns. spoke volumes and his dedication was apparent. He was one of those kids you could always count on to lead,” Nichols said.

Not only was Dobbs a leader on the field, but according to Nichols, he was an incredibly well rounded student.

“He was taking two or three collegiate level classes during his senior year, running back and forth all day between campuses, and he was also a member of the school’s band playing trumpet. He was well respected as a musician.”

Dobbs has continued his dedication to studies off the football field at Tennessee, where he majors in aerospace engineering.

On the field, Nichols has followed Dobbs’ time at Tennessee and said he has made a point to always watch Dobbs play on Saturdays. He was also in attendance at this year’s Tennessee vs. Georgia game in which Dobbs completed a Hail Mary on the final play of the game to earn the win for the Vols.

Nichols said he has seen Dobbs’ progression as a player on the collegiate level, stating that Dobbs’ improvement in speed has been apparent since his days as a Raider.

“I’ve always said it was kind of a mistake on my part that we didn’t have a lot of designed runs for Dobbs, but that was mainly to ensure that he stayed upright and stayed healthy. But he has shown that he is certainly tough and is a great run threat with Tennessee.”

With the Vols, Dobbs threw for 7,138 yards with 53 passing touchdowns. He is fifth all-time at Tennessee for passing yards and passing touchdowns and is 12th all-time in the SEC for total touchdowns.

“Dobbs will always be very important to the history of Alpharetta football,” Nichols said. “It has been amazing to watch him compete, and I know he will be successful no matter what he does.”

DEATH NOTICES H.D. Bagley, of Alpharetta, passed away December 22, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Frances Beagle, of Alpharetta, passed away December 21, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Joseph DeGrazia, of Alpharetta, passed away December 24, 2016. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Helen Foyle, of Roswell, passed away December 25, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Conner Hankinson, of Alpharetta, passed away December 18, 2016.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

June McCormick, 79, of Cumming, passed away December 22, 2016.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

JoAnn Rieger, of Roswell, passed away December 26, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Francis Matthew Ciszek, 69, of Cumming, passed away December 20, 2016. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Tambra Lynn Hall, 48, of Cumming, passed away December 23, 2016.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

Mildred Grace Walsh, 65, of Cumming, passed away December 25, 2016.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home.

Louise Ward, of Roswell, passed away December 27, 2016. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

30 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

ONLINE INCLUDED

» Hiring? Pay once & we’ll run your ad until your position is filled.* » Selling Something? Pay once and we’ll run your item until it’s sold!*

*Some Restrictions

Call today to place your ad • 770-442-3278 • classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 •

Help Wanted Full-time

Now Hiring: Advertising Sales Executive Job Description & Duties: Appen Media Group is hiring sales executives for the marketing and advertising department. Primary responsibilities will be managing a book of existing business by consulting on and selling advertising campaigns, and growing the existing book of business through cold calling and networking.

Qualifications: Must be ambitious, hard working, good with people, and goal oriented.

Previous sales experience preferred, but not required.

Compensation: Base salary of $18,200/ year with aggressive monthly commission. Full medical benefits, matching 401k and PTO.

four weekly newspapers in the north Fulton and south Forsyth markets totaling 75,000 in circulation per week. In addition to its weekly coverage, AMG also publishes the monthly womens magazine, Northside Woman, as well as quarterly community guides, called Answer Books. Digitally, AMG has a vast online presences through various social media platforms and through its operation of northfulton.com and northsidewoman.com.

Email a resume and cover letter to: christina@appenmediagroup.com and CC hans@appenmediagroup.com.

About Appen Media Group: Appen Media Group is a multimedia news company with a focus on print newspapers. AMG publishes

Full-time

Full-time

Part-time

PRESCHOOL TEACHER openings available for a NAEYC accredited Alpharetta Private School. Full (9:006:00) and part time (2:30-6:30). Send your resume to resumes@ mcginniswoods.org

Sr. Quality Engineer (Johns Creek, GA; Travel not required, but must be willing to relocate to unanticipated locations across the country per contract demand): Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes.

Email resume referencing job code# 1216SQE to Datasoft Technologies, Inc. at jmanyapu@ datasoft-tech.com

ADMIN ASSISTANT/ ACCOUNTING: Computer input, bank recs, time and billing, receptionist, P/R tax-S/T return prep, binding/compiling tax returns, F/S for mailing.

MondayFriday, 9am-3pm. Fax: 678-957-1370

BOARDING KENNEL WORK Crabapple Beds and Bones, since 1998 F/T, P/T. 404-281-7757 John

FRAME YOUR AD

Client Scheduler

for premier homecare agency in Alpharetta.

Must have excellent communication skills and enjoy working with elderly. CNA or LPN certification desired.

Prior homecare or scheduling experience a plus.

Call 678-230-5971

PET SITTER/DOG WALKER FT/PT. Must have flexible schedule. www.happytailscare. com Ask your classified sales rep how you can enhance your line ad with a

BORDER. 770-442-3278

Animals Horses

PONIES

Cemetery

Furniture

GREENLAWNROSWELL Garden of Peace, Lot 36-B, Space 2, Included: 1 cremation vault, 1 memorial plaque 16”x20” engraved, 2 openings, 2nd vault needed for 2nd opening.

Greenlawn will show location and handle deed transfer. $2,778 (Exact price paid in 19098, current retail $8,800). 770-605-7747

SWIVEL ROCKER RECLINER, LazyBoy: Beige. New! $850. Retail $1099.

678-957-8335

GREENLAWN Five privately-owned side-by-side; exclusive, very serene Lakeside surrounded by mature pine trees, overlooking beautiful lake.

Greenlawn will show location and handle deed transfers. $1500/ lot includes private granite memorial bench directly in front of lots.

Sidney 504-454-3168 or senglander10@ gmail.com

7 fabulous, loving, well-mannered ponies!

10 hands to 14.2.

They ride English & Western. . $1000 & up.

Will hold for Christmas!

770-663-7565

GREENLAWN ROSWELL Fountain-B Section. 4 plots. Fair market value $5000/each. Asking $4000/each OBO. C. Palmer 615-764-6170

Bargains

Furniture

Building Supplies VELUX SKYLIGHTS, used. (Eight, 21”x44”, two miscellaneous sizes). $475/all.

770-992-6848 leave message

Fill your position today!

Call 770-442-3278 to advertise

BEDROOM SET: Single headboard, night-stand, chest, desk with hutch and chair $200.

770-889-8209

ROLLAWAY BED; Folding, single. Used once.

Mint!

Plus single-sheet set. $150.

Originally $208. $45 extra for single bed quilt. 770-343-8075 BARSTOOLS 30” cherry 404-889-3233

(3) $300.

SOFA: Light green.

Excellent condition!

Pictures on request. $450. 770-889-8209 CHERRY HUNT TABLE with mirror, $700. 404-889-3233

Medical Equipment

Musical Instruments

P O W E R WHEELCHAIR: Invacare Pronto M-91. New batteries.

Like new! $1250.

404-396-7807

PIANO: Henry F. Miller Upright, matching bench $500/firm.

770-552-4034

Miscellaneous DUNE RACER (kids) $150. 404-889-3233 YAMAHA 4-WHEELER 404-889-3233

kids’ $150.

MENS’ DANCE SHOES: Black, size 10. $40 firm.

770-241-3273 STROLLERS 404-889-3233

$40.

CHILDRENS’ TABLE, cherry Delta $90.

404-889-3233

JOHN DEERE GATOR for kids $200.

404-889-3233

DINING ROOM TABLE, glass top, cherry inlay, 6 covered roll-back chairs $800.

404-889-3233

LITTLE TYKES COUPE and Fire Engine, both for kids $70. 404-889-3233

BAR STOOLS, swivel seats & backs. Two 24”, one 29”, all wood construction; great condition! $20 each.

770-888-2790

Household SEWING MACHINE, Graybar with case $200/firm.

770-241-3273 F R I G I D A I R E FREEZER $125. 404889-3233

POLARIS 4-Wheeler 404-889-3233

Kids’ $150.

JOHN DEERE KIDS’ GROUNDLOADER $150. 404-889-3233

Musical Instruments PIANO: Kimball Upright with bench, in excellent condition!

Completely refurbished and tuned. $1400.

770-861-7537

CLEANING OUT AN ATTIC, GARAGE OR BASEMENT? SELL YOUR OLD STUFF!

CALL 770-442-3278 TODAY!

PIANO, BG, Yamaha.

Elegant, walnut, with bench. $1850 obo.

404-455-8845 PIANO, Baby Grand: Elegant case, matching bench; warm, rich tone. Sacrifice $1650 obo. 678-445-3654

Recreation GOLF CLUBS: Ladies’ complete set, Lynx irons, graphite woods, ball retriever, wood covers, new bag $275.

770-740-9757 SKIS, BOOTS, POLES, womens’ and mens’ 7/1/2 and 9-1/2. $400. 404-889-3233

Wanted to Buy Vintage Barbie and Friends, Ginny, Madame Alexander, and other dolls, clothing and accessories. (Local).

Cell 214-883-8215 RECORDS: LP’s. Pay cash, Rock & Roll.

Mojo Vinyl, Roswell 678-534-5042

Entertainment & Event Services Weddings Tianna’s Place Creating impeccable memories, one event at a time. Full-service, special event-planning.

Focusing on corporate and celebratory events. www. tiannasplace.com.

678-879-5253/ 404-903-2441

AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING Get FAA Technician certification.

Approved for military benefits.

Financial Aid if qualified.

Job placement assistance.

Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204

® HANDYMAN REMODELING

678-455-2434

www.HandyHero.net

32 | January 5, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Clear, natural sound quality 100% Invisible

The contact lens for your ear.™ Lyric is the world’s only 100% invisible, extended-wear hearing device you can wear 24/7 for months at a time.1

A completely different way to hear better.

Available at:

No daily hassles

Painless insertion

No surgery

No batteries to charge

Even showerproof2

1. Individual replacement needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions.

2. Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged under water.

24/71 effortless hearing

LYRIC SPECIAL EVENT: JANUARY 9th – 13th • 30-DAY FREE TRIAL CALL IMMEDIATELY – APPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED, 770-462-2000

Lyric* can help you change your life without changing the way you live. We are excited to offer this Lyric Consultation to you absolutely free.

As seen on:

Our Award Winning Doctors of Audiology

Dr. Stephany Sun, Au. D.

Audiologist & Factory Trained Expert

Dr. Erin Luckett, Au. D.

Audiologist & Factory Trained Expert

Dr. Kristen Howze King, Au. D. Audiologist & Industry Expert

Dr. Betsy Mosier, Au. D.

Audiologist & Factory Trained Expert

ALPHARETTA 770-462-2000

4190 Old Milton Pkwy, Ste 2E • Alpharetta, GA 30005 Located in the Kroger shopping center.

Elizabeth Mallcott, M.A.

CANTON / WOODSTOCK 404-400-5970 KENNESAW / MARIETTA 404-400-5950 STONE MOUNTAIN 770-415-9898 1437 Riverstone Pkwy, Ste 105 • Canton, Ga 30114 Located in the Publix shopping center.

1200 Ernest Barrett Pkwy, Ste 124 • Kennesaw Ga 30144 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 112 • Stone Mtn Ga 30087 Located in the Floor and Decor shopping center.

Located in the Kroger shopping center.

We accept most insurances & HMO’s We honor all hearing aid benefits.

Audiologist & Industry Expert

www.SouthernMedicalHearing.com

LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER

Other Locations in Augusta, GA, Dalton GA, Chattanooga, TN & Cleveland, TN Phonak Q30 Offer ends May 13 Proud Provider of Phonak Hearing Instruments

Included in this Special Offer: Free Hearing

MSRP $2,600

100% Digital Open-Fit BTE (Open Fit Behind-the-Ear) Fits up to 40 db Loss

$695

Now Was - $1295