Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - March 7, 2024

Alpharetta revises application rules for performances in downtown sites

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — At its Feb. 27 meeting, the Alpharetta Cultural Arts Commission approved a revised application and guidelines for temporary public performances in downtown pocket parks.

Previously, the city permitted temporary performances at four locations throughout downtown Alpharetta. The new application allows performances in the alley between Smokejack and the Berkshire Hathway building on South Main Street, as well as within 15 feet of the Oliver-WatersMcCollum Warehouses marker on Milton Avenue and Old Roswell Street.

With the revisions, applicants will pay $60 for a permit, a $10 increase from the previous price. Half of the cost goes toward the nonrefundable application fee, and the remaining $30 covers the performer’s badge if the application is approved.

Previously, performers would wear their permits on a lanyard. Under the new guidelines, the permit will be attached to a tip box. Alpharetta Cultural Services Manager Kim Manning said the new permit style contributed to the cost increase.

See CHANGE, Page 25

Alpharetta has spent around $5 million of the $29.5 million parks bond voters passed in 2021. The bond account has accrued $2 million in interest, and city staff anticipates an additional $1.4 million this fiscal year.

Alpharetta drops plan to shuffle parks bond

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta officials have backed down from plans to discuss reprioritizing the projects approved in the 2021 parks bond referendum.

The City Council raised the idea at its annual planning retreat Jan. 21-22 after Parks and Recreation Director Morgan Rodgers said the $29.5 million bond budget fell some $5 million short from completing the work outlined in the original projects list.

At the retreat, City Councilman Dan Merkel and Councilman Brian Will supported an agenda item to consider prioritizing the bond projects. City staff tentatively scheduled the item for discussion Feb. 26, but the topic did not appear on the City Council’s agenda at that meeting.

In a phone interview with Appen Media Feb. 29, City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom said since the retreat, councilmembers have grown satisfied with the Parks and Recreation Department’s plans to use the bond account interest money, and there are no plans to discuss any changes to the parks bond.

“With all the members of council saying they’re satisfied, there’s really no reason to have a discussion because we’re not going to be moving any money around,” Lagerbloom said. “And I don’t want the public to think that we’re trying to shuffle money from one project to the next. Right now, we’re just maintaining the status quo.”

See BOND, Page 10

Plans for Alpha Loop change after tunnel estimates climb

► PAGE 4

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DOJ busts Roswell lab owner for kickbacks

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Department of Justice announced Feb. 28 that Andrew “Drew” Maloney, a 57-year-old Roswell resident, pleaded guilty to criminal information charging him with conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks.

Maloney and the clinical laboratory he owned, Atlanta-based Capstone Diagnostics, have agreed to pay around $14.3 million to resolve allegations that they violated the Anti-Kickback Statute by paying volume-based commissions to independent contractor sales representatives to arrange for or recommend medically unnecessary urine drug tests and respiratory pathogen panels.

Maloney and Capstone have also agreed to cooperate with the Department

POLICE BLOTTER

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

Police cite Roswell woman for possessing stolen guitar

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested a 24-year-old Roswell woman Feb. 23 who allegedly tried to sell a stolen guitar at Guitar Center on North Point Drive.

Store employees reported the incident after the guitar returned as stolen from a Guitar Center in Kennesaw. The instrument had allegedly been stolen by a former employee at the Kennesaw store.

Officers reported speaking with the woman, who said she received the guitar in her late father’s property in Ohio.

When questioned why she was trying to sell the instrument in Alpharetta and not in Ohio, she reportedly said she was visiting family in Decatur and knew Alpharetta was a wealthier city.

Officers asked the woman if she

of Justice’s investigations of other participants in the alleged schemes.

According to U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan, between August 2017 and December 2018, Capstone entered into an arrangement with a program operating as Do It 4 the Hood (D4H), which held itself out as providing after-school mentoring services to at-risk teenagers in Georgia. Once enrolled, participants were required to submit to frequent urine specimen collections for drug testing without regard to medical need or the history of the participant.

Maloney was aware that the participants needed the tests to participate in the program and that many of these participants were covered by Medicaid. Capstone,

knew the man who allegedly stole the guitar, and she said no.

The woman’s address reportedly matched the suspect’s address in the original theft, and the woman allegedly admitted the suspect was her ex-boyfriend.

She was charged with misdemeanor theft by receiving stolen property.

Man reports robbery at Roswell office park

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating the strong-arm robbery of a 61-year-old man Feb. 24 at the Summit office park on Holcomb Bridge Road.

A person called police after finding the victim outside of Studio 6 at 9955 Old Dogwood Road shortly after the altercation.

Police said the victim had swelling on the left side of his face and a gash to the left eyebrow.

The victim complained of pain in his ribs and trouble breathing before emergency responders transported him to Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center.

While at the hospital, the victim

with Maloney’s knowledge and approval, paid the operators of D4H a percentage of Medicaid reimbursements for samples submitted by the program, in violation of federal law.

While the scheme was ongoing, Capstone submitted over $1 million in claims, causing Georgia Medicaid to pay out at least $400,000 in claims related to the fraudulent drug testing.

In addition to Maloney’s guilty plea, four others have pleaded guilty in connection with this fraudulent drug testing scheme including 45-year-old Duriel Gray of Cartersville, 32-year-old Bree’Anna Harris of Phoenix, Arizona, 36-year-old Glenn Pair of Stonecrest, and 48-year-old Rachel Sheats of Woodstock.

said an employee of the Olive Garden he was acquainted with approached him and struck up a conversation. Then, six or seven unidentified males, ranging in different ages, jumped him.

Officers said the victim could not provide descriptions of his assailants, but they were not carrying weapons. They took his wallet, shoes and two cell phones.

The victim agreed to notify police with any further information.

Home reported ransacked on Jefferson Creek Drive

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta man reported someone ransacked his home on Jefferson Creek Drive while he was on an errand Feb. 24.

The victim reported he left the house with his family around 6 p.m., and he left the front door unlocked. When they returned around 7 p.m., he said the house had been ransacked, but nothing appeared to be missing.

Officers reported seeing cabinets, closets and luggage that appeared to have been rummaged through in the house.

No suspects have been identified.

Council ponders $7.5 million for Alpha Loop connections

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta officials are considering which portions of the Alpha Loop will receive $7.5 million in bond funds freed up after plans for a tunnel under Haynes Bridge Road has been sidelined.

At a formal meeting March 4, the City Council fielded staff plans to spend the money on five Alpha Loop projects across Alpharetta. Councilmen Brian Will and Fergal Brady were absent from the meeting.

The $29.5 million parks bond voters approved in 2021 dedicated $7.5 million to construct a tunnel under Haynes Bridge Road that would connect the Alpha Loop from Northwinds Summit to the future Alpha Link, a planned connection to the Big Creek Greenway near North Point Mall.

Alpharetta Public Works Director Pete Sewczwicz said costs for the tunnel came in around $9.5 million during design.

“So, we started looking at some other options,” he said. “Unfortunately, none of those are panning out.”

Sewczwicz presented five options for the $7.5 million in order of staff preference:

• Extend the loop from Village

Tavern on Westside Parkway to Haynes Bridge Road, which would ultimately serve as a connection to Encore Parkway. Developers of The Gathering, a mixed-use development at Morrison Parkway and Haynes Bridge Road, would be responsible for the sidewalk along the property as well as pedestrian signals.

• Roswell Street from Old Milton Parkway to Old Roswell Street, including improvements for the intersection of Marietta and Roswell streets. “It is designed,” Sewczwicz said. “We are in the process of acquiring right-of-way through this area. We think we have about another month or so before the right-of-way is acquired, and then we will bid out the project for construction.”

• Roswell Street connection from Devore Road to Old Milton

• Intersection enhancement at Devore and Haynes Bridge

• Crossing on Old Milton at Kingry Lane. The Kingry Lane connection would require a Georgia Department of Transportation permit, and Sewczwicz said there are right-of-way difficulties on Old Milton across from the U.S. Post Office. “That one will take the longest of all the projects that we see right now to go from design into construction,” Sewczwicz said.

City staff originally proposed a circular Alpha Loop connection from Village Tavern and the Northwinds parking lot to the segment under construction on Westside Parkway. Sewczwicz said the proposal is still

up for consideration, but the $7.5 million would only cover the first five recommendations.

Councilmembers were ultimately supportive of the five staff recommendations. Mayor Jim Gilvin and Councilman John Hipes said the circular connection at Northwinds and Westside is not a priority.

Gilvin also said he agrees with staff’s top suggestion – the connection at Westside and Haynes Bridge – because his priority is linking the loop to the Greenway on Encore Parkway as quickly as possible.

Discussion on the Alpha Loop will return for a formal vote at a future City Council meeting.

In other matters, the City Council approved its fiscal year 2025 priorities and annual action plan.

Drafted by the city administrator using feedback from the City Council annual retreat, the plan serves as a guiding document for staff and councilmembers’ decisions throughout the year.

The action plan remains largely unchanged from the last version, but City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom said the council’s previous priority for growth and redevelopment has been amended to focus on the North Point district.

Also at the meeting, councilmembers recognized the Evans family for a $100,000 donation to the new Wacky World at Wills Park. The beloved playground is being rebuilt

fall.

this

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Mayor Jim Gilvin accepts a $100,000 donation to the Wacky World playground from the Evans family at an Alpharetta City Council meeting March 4. The playground at Wills Park is being rebuilt this fall.

EXISTING UNDER DESIGN / 4

PLANNED 5

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED This map shows Alpharetta’s progress and plans for the Alpha Loop. The City Council held a work session March 4 to discuss which segments to fund with $7.5 million in parks bond money after costs for a planned tunnel came in over budget.

Skating contest scheduled at The Cooler in Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Figure Skating Club will host its annual Magnolia Open Skating Competition from March 8 to 10 at The Cooler on Davis Drive.

The competition will feature more than 275 skaters competing in over 120 events. Scores in the solo dance and excel series will count toward the Excel Series Final in Boston and the Solo Dance Series Final in Wesley Chapel, Florida.

“The Atlanta Figure Skating Club, one of the country’s oldest and largest skating clubs, holds the Magnolia Open yearly at our home rink, The Cooler, in

Alpharetta,” Atlanta Figure Skating Club Director-at-Large Julia Hoffman said. “We have a great blend of excellent facilities, and the welcoming ambiance of the city makes the event a memorable experience for skaters, their families and skating fans.”

The Magnolia Open will also include one to four competition levels from the new U.S. Figure Skating Aspire program, an introduction to figure skating for rising athletes.

Admission is free. Live results will be posted at atlantafsc.com.

— Shelby Israel

King’s Ridge students honored for participation in state chorus

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — King’s Ridge Christian School is recognizing seniors Lily Gardiner and Alexa Page for six years of participation in the All-State Chorus, a statewide vocal talent showcase.

School officials said the students’ participation since seventh grade reflects their commitment to music and the standards of the All-State Chorus auditions.

King’s Ridge Christian School High School Choral Director

Jenny Piacente also congratulated Gardiner for receiving the 2024 Choral Tracks Scholarship Award.

“Her accomplishments have not only made us proud but have also garnered recognition from choral teachers across Georgia,” Piacente said. “Lily’s dedication and talent exemplify the spirit of our choral program and serve as an inspiration to her fellow students.”

— Shelby Israel

Forsyth County Animal Services reports capturing rabid raccoon

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County Animal Services captured a raccoon that has tested positive for rabies near Crooked O Trail Feb. 21.

Animal Services officials said there is no reported human exposure to the raccoon.

County Animal Services Supervisor Haley Brown said a resident called to report the potential rabies infection.

“The prompt report of the animal allowed for Animal Services to respond quickly and capture it for testing,” Brown said.

The virus is transmitted to humans and domestic animals through saliva when it is

introduced into bite wounds; mucous membranes such as the eyes or mouth; or open cuts.

Officials said the most common carriers of rabies are bats, foxes, coyotes, skunks and raccoons, and the infection is almost always fatal unless treated immediately.

To report an animal behaving strangely, people should avoid the animal and contact Animal Services at 770-781-2138 during business hours and the 911 Center at 770781-3087 after hours.

To report bites, county staff said to call the Georgia Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

— Shelby Israel

Sandy Springs Society gears up for spring sale

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The “Tossed Out Treasures” fundraiser kicks off a St. Patrick’s Day weekend of sales with the “Spring Fling Launch Party” March 14.

The annual shopping for a cause, hosted by The Sandy Springs Society, benefits nonprofits throughout the community.

The sale runs from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 15-16, and from noon-3 p.m. Sunday, March 17.

First held in 1992, the event showcases the reuse of antiques, fine china, silver, glassware, designer clothing, high-end accessories, jewelry, books, upscale home decor, electronics, children’s items and more.

The event has become a mustattend for many antique and consignment retailers for items for their own retail outlets, based on the quality of goods.

The remaining merchandise is donated to area charities.

In partnership with Jamestown, an international and Atlanta-based real estate investment firm, the sale will be at 5920 Roswell Road, Suite C203 in Sandy Springs, the former Tuesday Morning location in the Parkside Shopping Center, above the Sandy

Springs Cinema & Taphouse.

New or gently used items can be donated at the venue from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 29-March 9.

Last year, record-breaking sales

raised more than $100,000. Since it began in 1992, the event has raised funds annually, helping more than 30 nonprofits in the community through the Society's

grants program, which supports various nonprofits that promote arts, education, heritage, environment and social services in the city.

In 2023, the Society awarded $300,000 in grants to 32 nonprofits. To date, it has awarded more than $4.8 million in grants to support the community in the past 35 years.

Admission to “Tossed Out Treasures” is free on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For those wanting to be first to discover this year’s finds, a “Spring Fling Preview Party,” including a festive dinner buffet and silent auction, will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, March 14. Tickets are available for $40 through March 10 and can be purchased at the door for $50.

"Inflation is continuing to have an impact on pricing on all nature of products, [and] this is a fantastic opportunity to purchase high quality ‘new-to-you’ items at exceptional prices, while knowing those proceeds are going to benefit the community versus a large retailer," Tossed Out Treasures Chair Kim McAfee said. "Our ‘Spring Fling Preview Party’ is the perfect way to launch this wonderful weekend of shopping and St. Patrick’s Day festivities.”

SANDY SPRINGS SOCIETY/PROVIDED The Sandy Springs Society is accepting donations for its “Tossed Out Treasures” fundraiser and sales event March 14-17 at 5920 Roswell Road, Suite C203.

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Campus 244 highlights growth and Phase Two rollout

DUNWOODY, Ga. — The developers of Campus 244 have announced updates Feb. 26 on welcoming tenants and expanding into the second phase of the mixed-use development.

With leasing success during the first phase, developers The Georgetown Company and RocaPoint Partners are announcing Phase Two – The Stacks building – designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, which will feature 300,000-square-feet of Class-AA office space, with an outdoor space on each of its six floors.

The 1.3 million-square-foot campus at Perimeter Center is adjacent to the Dunwoody MARTA station, State Farm’s Perimeter campus, I-285 and Ga. 400.

The location at 244 Perimeter Center Parkway is a 3-minute walk to the MARTA rail network and a 5-minute walk to Perimeter Mall.

This spring, the first phase of the office campus – the Palladium building – will welcome Insight Global, Beon and their employees. So far, the first four floors are fully leased, with 64,085 square feet of rentable office space available on the fifth floor.

Cushman & Wakefield’s Aileen Almassy, Will Porter, and Rob Kuppersmith spearhead office leasing efforts. Steve Yenser manages retail leasing, all on behalf of The Georgetown Company.

The first phase features the reimagining of the former Gold Kist office building into five stories of Class A space with 15-foot ceilings and a timber overbuild.

A 145-key hotel, Element by Westin, topped out in February 2024 and is expected to open this fall along with The

Spruce Social House, a new food-andbeverage concept, and Stäge Kitchen & Bar, a new-to-market restaurant.

The buildout of CT Cantina & Taqueria is underway, with an opening planned for this summer.

“We’re not even talking about the office of the future; we’re talking about the office that employees want today, and that’s a walkable environment with plenty of options to work, dine, stay, and have fun around the campus,” Georgetown Managing Principal Jonathan Schmerin said. “With the creative office space, hotel and accompanying dining options on-site, we’re bringing a new community gathering spot for the area to reenergize a previously overlooked pocket of the submarket.”

The Spruce Social House, located at the base of the Element Hotel, codeveloped by Vision Hospitality Group and Georgetown, will offer a selection of craft beers and non-alcoholic options, alongside a shareable menu of small plates, flatbreads, charcuterie and cheeseboards.

The beverage-focused venue will feature a four-sided indoor and outdoor bar.

RocaPoint Principal Phil Mays said the addition of another office building brings energy to the next phase of the mixed-use development.

“Campus 244 is a testament to the demand still out there for high-quality, well-located office space that energizes employees,” Mays said. “We’ve taken the existing building with an interesting history and beautiful, natural-light-filled floorplates that allow for collaboration and created a home for innovative companies to continue to do what they do best.”

– Hayden Sumlin

THE WILBERT GROUP/PROVIDED

A rendering of Campus 244 shows the planned buildout of Phase One and Two of the mixed-use development at 244 Perimeter Center Parkway in Dunwoody. Developers Georgetown Company and RocaPoint Partners announced Phase Two Feb. 26 which includes a six-story building, The Stacks, to complement the completed, five-story Palladium building.

THE GEORGETOWN COMPANY/PROVIDED

A blueprint of Campus 244’s 12-acre campus shows the soon-to-be-completed Phase One of the mixed-use development, with a hotel, parking area, greenspace, retail and restaurants, and five-story office building. Campus 244 developers announced Phase Two Feb. 26, which includes a six-story building with 300,000 square feet of office space.

Name of Business: Perrine’s Wine

Shop

Owner: Perrine Prieur Gallardo

Description: Perrine’s Wine offers a diverse selection of wines from all over the world. We love to highlight smaller, artisanal producers making delicious and honest wine. We also have a private tasting room in which our

team of passionate wine professionals host weekly educational tastings, winemaker tastings, and private events.

Opened: November 2023

Address: 5920 Roswell Road, Suite B108, Sandy Springs, GA, 30328

Phone: 404-254-5077 x3

Web Address: www.perrineswine.com

Name: Chelo

Owner: Matt Iyibas

Description: Discover the essence of authentic Persian and Middle Eastern cuisine at Chelo. Indulge in savory charcoal-grilled kabobs, succulent seafood, and fragrant rice dishes. Elevate your experience with

our specially created craft cocktail list and wine selections. Located in the heart of downtown Roswell.

Opened: December 2023

Phone: 470-294-1167

Address: 964 Alpharetta St., Roswell, GA 30075

Website: cheloroswell.com

High school students invent device to remove harmful gas in homes

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. —By a show of hands, most guests at the Chattahoochee Inventeam’s presentation Feb. 27 use gas stoves, the source of methane and nitrogen dioxide.

An invention is underway to address that.

Not only do the constant leaks increase the risk of developing respiratory diseases, but Sophie Lin, the team’s administration student lead, said two decades of gas stove emissions equates to 20 million cars on the highway emitting methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.

“Virtually, no solution actually exists to address these interior leaks inside of our homes, and thus, with our problem defined, we stepped aside to find a solution,” Lin said.

Members of the Chattahoochee

Bond:

Continued from Page 1

Plans for funding

Rodgers said the parks bond budget discussion at the retreat accounted for inflation and the cost of business, labor and materials. The $5-6 million shortfall estimate included all bond projects.

Not factoring in Farmhouse Park, the Alpha Loop and the Wills Park Equestrian Center, Rodgers said the city needs $3.5 million to complete work on Old Rucker, Union Hill and Wills parks, as well as the artificial turf at Webb Bridge Park.

“When we drill down to the numbers, what we really need is just a little over $3 million to complete those projects, above what’s funded right now,” Rodgers said.

InvenTeam, aka the “GasBusters,” is composed of about a dozen mostly 11th graders. They were the only group in the Southeast this school year to receive a $7,500 grant through the Lemelson-MIT program — an annual research initiative out of the

As of Feb. 29, Lagerbloom said the parks bond account has accrued some $2 million in interest, and staff anticipates another $1.4 million in investment earnings in the 2024 fiscal year.

Rodgers said it is hard to say whether Farmhouse Park and the Alpha Loop will need more funding in the future. The Alpha Loop and Farmhouse projects have not been started, and the Equestrian Center improvements are a partnership between the city and the Wills Park Equestrian Foundation.

“We don’t know yet for the Farmhouse and the Alpha Loop exactly what we’re going to build, so we don’t know if it’s going to be over or under because we’re still trying to figure out all the details,” Rodgers said.

Conceptual plans for the Farmhouse Park trail, a staircase and path that

Massachusetts Institute of Technology geared toward high schoolers to invent technological solutions to real-world problems.

The group is making progress since they “jumped on the train” a year ago, having drafted one invention concept

will lead to the site, were presented in January 2023 at the City Council’s previous retreat.

The city has an agreement with the developers of the lot immediately to the east of Farmhouse that would create access down to the site and shared parking, pending buildout of the lot.

The council’s authority

At the latest planning retreat, councilmembers floated using the anticipated $3 million in interest to wrap up work on the parks projects closest to completion. That would have left out Farmhouse, Wills Park and barns at the Equestrian Center.

To find out more information about the Chattahoochee Inventeam or to donate to their project, visit their Linktree webpage at https://linktr.ee/ GasBusters.

on physics homework, sourced materials and developed an innovative way to test the device. The prototype is currently being finalized.

But, beware of scammers, the Inventeam said those details are “top secret,” privy to the eyes and ears of the small crowd who attended their presentation in Chattahoochee High School’s media center.

For their presentation, the group broke down what it took to get the ball rolling, how they keep it going. The project is multifaceted, each student playing a specific role.

Some students work to get the word

At that time, councilmen Will and Doug DeRito supported using the money dedicated for Farmhouse on the other projects facing funding deficits.

While Alpharetta’s 2021 parks bond drew overwhelming voter support, passing by a 3-1 margin, city councils do have authority to change projects named in a bond.

Georgia code allows local government commissions or councils to deem a bond project unnecessary and remove it from funding. Such a decision would require a two-thirds vote of the governing board.

City Attorney Molly Esswein said a city council could bring forth a resolution related to park bond expenditures if a purpose in the original notice is no longer necessary, or if circumstances have changed since the bond was adopted and an expenditure is no longer practical or feasible.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Johns Creek City Councilman Dilip Tunki, middle, stands with the Chattahoochee Inventeam after awarding certificates of recognition for their work.

Hi, I’m Shelby Israel and I report on all things in and around Forsyth County and Alpharetta. If you have any story tips or ideas please contact me at shelby@appenmedia.com

Metro area school districts log top rankings in SAT, ACT

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

METRO ATLANTA — Metro Atlanta school districts ranked among the best in the state for SAT and ACT scores based on the performance of the class of 2023.

Colleges across the United States use the SAT and the ACT to assess college readiness and determine acceptance and placement. A perfect score is 1600.

Among the 165 public school districts that recorded scores, Forsyth County Schools’ total mean ranked highest at 1177.

Three Forsyth County high schools, Lambert (1254), Alliance Academy for Innovation (1239) and South Forsyth (1218) ranked among the top 10 for average scores. Denmark High School ranked 18th highest with a mean of 1168.

The Georgia Department of Education placed the statewide average SAT score at 1045.

“It takes talented students, dedicated teachers and support staff, engaged parents and guardians, and a supportive community for this to happen,” Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Jeff Bearden said. “We are fortunate to have all of this in our community to provide a safe, connected and thriving educational experience.”

Fulton County Schools, the state’s fourth largest district by enrollment, came in 19th place with a system-wide average score of 1085.

Students at Northview High School in Johns Creek earned the second highest average (1263) among all individual schools in Georgia.

The DeKalb County School District ranked 92nd with a mean score of 993 for 2,721 test-takers.

Forsyth County Schools also ranked second for the highest composite ACT score in Georgia at 24.4 with 1,663 students tested.

The ACT measures math, reading, science and English proficiency. Students can also take an optional writing section. A perfect score is 36.

Lambert High School ranked third (26.5), Alliance Academy for Innovation ranked fourth (26.3) and South Forsyth ranked seventh (25.3) overall for average composite scores.

Fulton County Schools came in seventh place with an average systemwide score of 22.8 with 3,282 students tested. Northview (second) and Alpharetta (sixth) high schools also placed in the top 10 for individual per -

2023 SAT Results for North Fulton high schools

2023 ACT Results for North Fulton high schools

formance.

DeKalb County recorded 20.6 as its average composite score for 1,129 testtakers. Chamblee Charter High School ranked fifth among individual school scores at 25.8.

The statewide ACT average was 21.3, and the national average was 19.5.

Artist guild, photographers collaborate on ‘Women of Color’ exhibit

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Classrooms inside of Emory Johns Creek Hospital were bumping with music as the Johns Creek Art Center’s Artist Guild led a talk from artists displaying their work in its “Women of Color” exhibition onsite.

The Black History Month celebration, segueing into Women’s History Month, signaled the first-time collaboration between the Artist Guild and Sistagraphy, a Decatur-based photography collective founded 30 years ago, exclusively composed of women of color.

The Artist Guild has showcased its work at the hospital for years. The group also has work hanging in Johns Creek City Hall and will have another exhibition at the Gwinnett County Historic Courthouse in the summer.

The group, consisting of more than 30 members, serves the Arts Center by facilitating exhibitions on and off-site, assisting with special events, and acting as an ambassador.

Monika Mittal, president of the Artist Guild, introduced several artists to describe their work as well as herself, whose acrylic paintings are often symbolic whether it be of a feather for freedom or droplets, alluding to a lesson she learned from her mother.

“I learned from my mom that every drop makes the bucket full,” Mittal said.

Sistagraphy Executive Director Furery Terriy Reid spoke of the stories behind her photographs. One titled “Stand for Justice” shows a group of people holding onto a white cross during a commemoration ceremony for

a joint effort with Decatur-based photography collective Sistagraphy.

the Chattahoochee Brick Company. Written on the cross were the names of those who worked there.

According to the Georgia Trust of Historic Preservation, the site is known for its extensive use of convict leasing where hundreds of African American inmates were forced to work in harsh conditions, a system some call “slavery by another name.”

Reid said the descendants of the laborers recently acquired the land after the City of Atlanta attempted to develop it.

“They were trying to take it and put housing and all that kind of stuff over these people, so the descendants said, ‘No, not my folks,’” she said, evoking some cheers from the audience.

Guild member Sarika Jaswani, who displayed a fiber art piece in the exhibition, described her passion behind art making and the creative process, which she chalks up to one word — “transcendence.”

“My art is an honor to the present moment,” said Jaswani, also a published poet. “My art is a love affair

www.johnscreekarts.org.

with everything in the moment. My art is the key to freedom from everything in the next moment, or the moment that has passed. My art is that one moment of purity brought by distillation of all the thoughts. My art is the culmination of many such brief moments into prolonged sense of calm.”

PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA Monika Mittal, president of the Johns Creek Arts Center’s Artist Guild, speaks about her artwork hanging in the “Women of Color” exhibition at Emory Johns Creek Hospital Feb. 28. The exhibition, located in two corridors at the hospital, was

The Johns Creek Arts Center’s Artist Guild is looking for new members from diverse backgrounds to join. If interested, email Executive Director Stephanie Donaldson at sdonaldson@ johnscreekarts.org or visit the Arts Center’s website for more information at

Staff from Emory Johns Creek Hospital line up for a wide selection of foods in a Black History Month celebration.

ALPHARETTA-ROSWELL HERALD | FORSYTH HERALD | JOHNS CREEK HERALD MILTON HERALD | DUNWOODY CRIER | SANDY SPRINGS CRIER

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Show Starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 Per Person

Doors Open at 6:30 p.m. Free Dance Lessons Before Show Visit www.legion201.org to Buy Tickets & for More Details

King’s Ridge Baseball at the Legion

p.m., Thursday, Mar. 7 Varsity vs Mt. Bethel, 5:30 p.m., Friday, Mar. 8 Varsity vs Paidea, 4:30 p.m. & 7 p.m., Monday, Mar. 11 Varsity vs Mt. Bethel, 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Mar. 12 JV vs King’s Academy, 5 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 14 Varsity vs Prince Avenue, 5:30 p.m., Friday, Mar. 15 Season Schedule: www.krtigers.com/sport/baseball/boys/ Community Easter Egg Hunt – 2 p.m. Sunday, Mar. 17 Free to the public. Hunt on the Post’s front lawn. Children ages 1-12 are welcome to participate. Sponsored by the Post 201 Auxiliary Dances & Dance Instruction For details and schedules visit www.club201dance.com/calendar 201 Wills Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-475-9023 www.legion201.org OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 EVENTS Post201 • Alpharetta, GA ServingVets for76Years

Who you call matters

Brought to you by –Tracey Craft, Realtor®, The Craft Dolan Team, Ansley Real Estate | Christie’s International

Think all real-estate agents are created equal? Think again.

Buying or selling a home, which is for most of us our largest single asset, is a potentially stressful experience. It can be emotionally draining, from the standpoint of uprooting yourself and your family, and financially concerning, as you seek a decision that will yield the highest possible return on your investment.

To find a Realtor® who will properly represent you, and by that, I mean create a smooth experience while protecting your financial interests, please take these important steps:

• Check Credentials. Select a licensed Realtor® who is a member of at least one professional Board. In Georgia, you will want to verify that the agent you are working with is an active member in good standing with the Georgia Association of Realtors® (GAR), and a local association such as the Atlanta Realtors® or the 400 North Realtors® Association. These memberships require Code of Ethics, Law and other ongoing continuingeducation training, keeping agent standards high.

• Look for Knowledge and Connection. Choose a Realtor® with years of experience in your geographic area as well as with the type of property you are buying or selling. Housing markets differ, it’s important that your agent’s knowledge and connections are specific to what you’re buying or selling. Is this agent connected to the community and

do they do good works? Are they invested in their clients, in the town, in the city? Can they provide you with good referrals when it’s time to call a lender, hire an inspector, choose a closing attorney, get quotes from painters, plumbers or electricians? Do they have experience in condos, townhouses, luxury properties, land, new construction, historic homes? Make sure their experience aligns with your needs.

• Investigate Reputation. Read testimonials and talk with references. Have a cup of coffee or schedule a lunch with the agent before committing to them. Are they passionate about what they do? Do they communicate well and in a style that works for you? Are they committed to your project? Does this agent have a reputation for solid negotiation skills they can put to work for you? You owe it to yourself to understand who the agent

is and determine whether they are someone you can trust to deliver a smooth, positive and financially fruitful experience.

• Understand the Reliability Factor. Select an agent who is consistent and dependable. Understand how many clients they currently are working with, and if it sounds like a lot, do they have a team that offers support? It is important to know your Realtor® or a trusted team member will be available to you regardless of the day of the week or seasonal holiday.

Lastly, we can all agree sites like Realtor.com, Homes.com and Zillow. com can be great resources for online browsing, but when you are ready to buy or sell your largest single asset, call a Realtor®. Call three and interview them. You need more than quick information; you need fiduciary support and competent representation.

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The Kloster Group Proudly Supports Area Non-Profits

FURKIDS/PROVIDED

Furkids: Rescue, Shelters, Sanctuary

Brought to you by – HOME Real Estate, Kloster Group

Furkids, headquartered in Cumming, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization that operates the largest cagefree, no-kill shelter in the Southeast for rescued cats and Sadie’s Place, a no-kill shelter for dogs.

The Furkids headquarters is a firstof-its-kind sanctuary located on 9.11 acres. A destination that’s filled with purpose and where the community plays a leading role in its lifesaving efforts. Visitors come to Furkids to find new friends (animal and human), pet-related services, animal support, events, and most importantly, opportunities to volunteer and adopt the hundreds of animals currently seeking a second chance at life.

The Furkids mission is to rescue homeless animals, provide them with the best medical care and nurturing environment while working to find them a forever home. Furkids heal the whole animal, physically and emotionally, restoring its health and its spirit.

Last year, Furkids provided medical care and shelter for close to 5,000 cats and dogs. Approximately 800 animals are in the Furkids program today, in the Furkids shelters, 8 PetSmart and Petco adoption centers, and more than 400 foster homes in the Atlanta area. Furkids also operates five thrift stores, which fund approximately 35% of their lifesaving work.

For animal lovers looking to make a difference, there are many wonderful volunteer opportunities at Furkids. Furkids volunteer programs are designed to restore the health and spirits of injured and homeless animals while giving healing opportunities to volunteers who are strengthened by the bond of love and care between humans and animals.

One beautiful example is the bond between Furkids’ longest dog resident, London, and a faithful volunteer Lou-

ise. London is an 8-year-old American Bulldog mix who has been a Furkid for over 1,000 days. Despite the efforts of Furkids, London has unfortunately been overlooked by adopters and has yet to find her forever home. This doesn’t stop London from being surrounded by people that love her however, and Louise goes the extra mile to make her feel special. Louise often takes London out to adoption events, outings, and even to the Furkids thrift stores to greet shoppers. London's personality brightens the day of everyone who comes across her path!

London isn’t the only dog who is patiently waiting for a place to call home. Willett, a 10-year-old hound mix who came to Furkids when her owner unfortunately passed away, has been searching for 20 months. Willett has been described as a beacon of sweetness and simplicity, and she loves basking in the sun, and going for leisurely walks. She is a joy to be around and will make a great addition to her new family. Perhaps that family is yours!

From puppies and kittens to senior cats and dogs, Furkids care for animals looking for a place to call home. Furkids is working tirelessly to help Georgia's most at risk animals and give them a voice. Furkids opened the doors to their brand new cat shelter in December 2023, and are now in the process of raising funds for a brand new dog shelter that will double the number of dogs they can save. All consolidated on one beautiful garden property.

To apply to adopt a dog or cat, or to support the lifesaving mission of Furkids, visit Furkids.org to learn more. Their organization always needs more fosters, volunteers, and donations to make it possible for them to continue saving lives. You can also follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/furkidsinc/ as well as Instagram at @Furkidsatlanta to keep up with their journey!

Left: Furkids Headquarters, 5235 Union Hill Road, Cumming GA

Top Right: London and Louise visiting a Furkids thrift store.

Bottom Right: Willett the lovely senior dog is ready for adoption.

Bottom: The Fort and Michelle Felker Cat Shelter at Furkids HQ –The new dog shelter is next to be built.

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Re-imagined

10591

Super-sized tile has come to Atlanta

Brought to you by - Bath and Kitchen Galleria

For more than 50 years we’ve been scrubbing grout in our showers, and wondering why they don’t make large tiles equal to the size of entire shower walls? It will look better, be cleaner and certainly more hygienic. In the past, the only full wall solutions were either incredibly expensive, or included putting some sort of acrylic or plastic on the shower walls; a sure pathway to decrease the value of your home!

“We’ve been working on deploying a full wall shower solution for 8 years and its finally here”, says John Hogan president of Bath and Kitchen Galleria in Alpharetta. Working hand-in-hand with Cosentino, a 1$ billion global solid surfaces manufacturer (the maker of Silestone), we can now offer gorgeous patterns of porcelain or quartz-like stone material that covers all of the shower walls, with little or no grout. We can even use the same material for the floors and countertops, says Bobbie Kohm, Vice President of

Design at Bath and Kitchen Galleria.

Manufacturing innovation and cuttingedge technology have come together to create a solution that’s gorgeous, durable, hygienic and easy to clean. This product’s trade name is Dekton, is manufactured in Spain and has been tested globally. It has finally arrived in Atlanta and is being made available to homeowners through Bath and Kitchen Galleria in Alpharetta, a turnkey designremodel company.

North Atlanta was significantly builtout in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s and there are many homeowners seeking innovative solutions to update their homes. Now homeowners have one more reason to remodel bathrooms. “We remodel over 240 homes each year and for the past few months the grout-free bathrooms have been selling incredibly well”, says Bobbie Kohm.

To learn more about full-wall tile solutions and Dekton you can visit Bath and Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta or call them at 678-459-2292.

Five Tips for Incorporating Spring Trends Into Home Decor

Brought to you by – Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

With new beginnings on the horizon, there's no better opportunity to breathe life into your home decor. Whether you're looking to revamp your interiors in preparation to sell or simply add a touch of seasonal flair, following nature’s lead can instantly uplift your space and rejuvenate your surroundings.

Here are a few ways to welcome spring into your home with style and elegance:

1. Lighten up with pastel colors.

For a simple, versatile facelift, embrace a soft ambiance reminiscent of fresh buds and newborn lambs by incorporating blush, sky blue, lavender or other pastel colors into your home decor palette. Contemplating a sale? Utilizing accent pillows, throws, wall art or even furniture pieces can introduce new hues without imposing a color scheme on prospective buyers that doesn't suit their taste.

2. Bring in natural elements.

Nature is a foundational element of spring-inspired décor. Infuse your home with rejuvenating beauty by introducing elements such as potted plants, fresh flowers and botanical prints. Incorporating wooden furniture, woven baskets and stone accents can further enhance the organic feel and create a harmonious connection with the outdoors.

3. Update textiles and fabrics.

Spring signifies a transition from heavier to lighter, especially when it comes to fabrics and textiles. Revitalize your home decor by swapping out winter throws and blankets for breezier options in linen, cotton or lightweight wool blends, and introduce floral patterns, airy curtains and textured rugs for a fresh vibe.

4. Embrace organic shapes and patterns. Build complexity into your home’s aesthetic through shapes and patterns inspired by nature. Opt for furniture pieces with fluid lines, curved edges and natural contours to evoke a sense of movement and harmony. Introduce leaf motifs or abstract patterns for a touch of whimsy and vitality, bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside.

5. Introduce lighter furniture and accents.

Lighter furniture and accents reflect the essence of spring. Consider swapping out heavier furniture pieces for sleeker, more streamlined options and pieces made from rattan, wicker or light-colored wood to open up the visual flow of your space and invite the warmth of natural light to permeate throughout.

Whether you're seeking subtle enhancements or bold transformations, now is the time to embrace rejuvenation and renewal. Let your home blossom into a sanctuary of warmth, comfort and style. If you need assistance renovating your home or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you!

Compiled and edited by Angela Valente, Marketing Copywriter/Copyeditor

Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad

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Patrick Malloy Communities’ Upper East River

Recognized with a Phillip Trammell Shutze Award

Brought to you by – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division

Patrick Malloy Communities proudly announces that their new home community, Upper East River in Savannah, has been honored with the prestigious Phillip Trammell Shutze Award in the Multifamily Architecture category. The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art Southeast Chapter revealed the winners during the 17th annual Shutze Awards ceremony and dinner on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta, Georgia.

Named after Atlanta’s renowned classical architect, Phillip Trammell Shutze, the awards celebrate excellence in residential and institutional architecture, interior design, landscape architecture restoration, and artisanship. Patrick Malloy Communities is thrilled to be acknowledged for their commitment to exceptional design and innovation in

the creation of Upper East River.

Upper East River, situated along the river in Historic Savannah, Georgia, offers a distinctive living experience with four unique environments seamlessly integrated into an elegant and modern neighborhood. The community reflects Patrick Malloy Communities’ dedication to creating spaces that not only enhance the natural surroundings but also provide residents with a harmonious blend of modern amenities and timeless architectural design.

The Shutze Awards play a pivotal role in recognizing and promoting excellence in classical design and craftsmanship. The judging panel, comprised of professionals from across the country, evaluated this year’s award submissions and recognized Upper East River in the Multifamily Architecture category. The community stood out for its architectural prowess, innovative design, and commitment to preserving the historical charm of the region.

Patrick Malloy, President and

CEO of Patrick Malloy Communities, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Receiving the Phillip Trammell Shutze Award is a tremendous honor. It reflects an unwavering commitment to creating exceptional living spaces that not only exceed the expectations of our residents but also contributes to the rich architectural tapestry of Historic Savannah. Upper East River is a testament to our dedication to excellence, and we are pleased to be acknowledged by the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.”

In the ever-expanding landscape of Georgia’s real estate market, Patrick Malloy Communities (PMC) stands out as a beacon of excellence and stability. With a legacy of crafting exceptional homes, the PMC name has become synonymous with quality and innovation. From the streets of North Atlanta to West Cobb and Gwinnett, and the historic allure of Savannah, PMC’s footprint in the state of Georgia is a testament to their dedication to

providing exceptional living experiences.

Patrick Malloy Communities, founded in 1994 by Patrick Malloy, boasts a remarkable track record.

Over the past 27 years, the company has developed over 11,000 homesites and built more than 7,000 homes in Metro Atlanta, generating a total of $4 billion in sales. PMC has consistently earned a place on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top 20 Homebuilder list and has won numerous professionalism awards, including several Community of the Year honors.

For more information on these exciting new home communities by Patrick Malloy Communities, visit www.bhhsganewhomes.com. These communities are represented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division. An Equal Housing Opportunity. For more information about Upper East River and other Patrick Malloy Communities, please visit www. patrickmalloycommunities.com.

Remarrying and Wills

Brought to you by –

Geerdes & Associates

If you remarry, you’ll often want to adopt your partner’s children, or you may have children from previous relationships. When that’s the case, you want to make sure you review your estate plan, so your new family isn’t shut out of an inheritance and that your assets are ultimately distributed according to your wishes.

Some people neglect these updatesthey keep the will from their first marriage that still has their ex-spouse as the beneficiary or Executor, or they may leave all their assets to their new spouse, which could result in them unintentionally shutting the children from a prior marriage out of an inheritance. Here are some costly mistakes that some people make after they remarry:

They do not change beneficiaries. Some people forget to remove their previous spouse as the beneficiary of their retirement accounts, life insurance, and bank accounts. Make sure you avoid this mistake by updating all the beneficiaries to your accounts in the event of a remarriage.

They do not update their Will. Update your will to reflect your current family situation so your ex-spouse does

not end up inheriting your home and assets.

They do not consider the change in heirs. Who your heirs are will change upon a remarriage. If you want your children, rather than your new spouse or their children, to receive your assets, you’ll want to make sure you specify this in your estate planning documents and accounts. Alternatively, if you want your assets to be distributed among your children and your spouse’s children equally, you’ll also want to clarify this so your assets do not end up going to just one party or all to your new spouse, who may not distribute the assets according to your wishes.

With a new family comes a new responsibility to make sure everyone inherits exactly what you want them to inherit. Avoid conflict by appointing the right family member to make decisions in the case you become incapacitated and do careful advance planning to make sure no one is accidentally disinherited creating conflict and possible litigation. Update your estate plan to match your new family situation. Remember - advance planning and clear communication set forth in your estate planning documents is always key to minimizing the risk of conflict and accidental disinheritance after you pass away.

Reserve Your Seat For A FREE Estate Planning Workshop

• Does my Will protect my “stuff”? (It does not.)

• Should I upgrade my Will to a Trust?

• What do I need to know about Revocable Living Trusts?

• How do Irrevocable Trusts work?

March/April Upcoming Workshops:

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• Medicaid. What’s true and what’s not?

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• How do I remain in control?

• How do I avoid losing everything to nursing home costs?

• How can my family avoid probate?

Attend our FREE Educational Workshops. Reserve your Spot and Get a FREE Consultation for attending the Workshop (a $500 Value) CODE: herald2023

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Theatre offers belonging, kinship to actors with special needs

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — When Kim Goodfriend founded Jerry’s Habima Theatre more than 30 years ago, it was an uphill battle getting others to believe in the project.

The theater, housed in the Marcus Jewish Community Center, stands as the only professional company in Georgia that features actors with special needs.

“This really was like an idea and the kind of thing that you say ‘yes’ to when you’re young and foolish and 20-something,” Goodfriend said, who partners with the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs. “You just say ‘yes.’”

Goodfriend recalled one of the first shows, where someone with a group home accused her of exploiting the actors, then walked out, taking about half of the cast on the stage with them.

At that time, staff would coach actors backstage, reminding them of where to go, and with upgrades in technology, the theater began to use prompters as well as pulling in actors to anchor scenes and act as a guide. In the last two years, though, actors have

mostly performed on their own.

“Our actors are carrying all the scenes and are doing just fine, and when they go up a little bit, they rescue

each other,” Goodfriend said.

The ability to adapt is key to the success of Habima.

months of practice.

The production, led by a 35-member cast with special needs and one paid neurotypical actor, is a mix and match of classic fairytales, like “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Little Red Riding Hood” and “Cinderella.”

Jonathan Roytenberg, in his first season with Habima, is playing a mysterious old man, and Amy Kahn, who has been involved since the theater’s founding, will act as Jack’s mother, a character angry over her son’s near-obsession with his pet cow.

Usually wearing a smile, Kahn said anger does not come naturally to her.

“When you're in it, it changes you and you learn to be someone else,” Kahn said. “We have a great director. That really helped.”

Mary Nye Bennett, director for “Into the Woods, Jr.,” is assisted by stage managers Amy Schwartz and Bekah Medford, who led a warm-up of vocal and movement exercises. A total of 17 have helped produce the musical.

Kahn, who has an intellectual disability, described how working with Habima has built her self-esteem.

“...It’s about what you can do, not what you can’t, and as cliché as that sounds, every voice, every soul has something to say,” she said. “When they come here as volunteers and they want to be in a show and be showcased, we’re going to figure out a way for that showcase to happen.”

Two actors in the cast for the upcoming “Into the Woods, Jr.” musical sat alongside Goodfriend, soon to get mic’d up and go through one of their last rehearsals, closing out three

“You’re accepted, and no one looks at you,” Kahn said. “I have a disability, and no one treats me any different. It is hard work — when I get really frustrated, it is sometimes hard for me, but I have worked through some things.”

“Yes, you have,” Goodfriend chimed in.

Agreeing with Kahn, Roytenberg, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, raised the importance of the camaraderie found at Habima.

“It’s inevitable that you’re going to be able to bond with people,” he said.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

The cast of the Jerry’s Habima Theatre production of “Into the Woods, Jr.” rehearses in their last week before the March 7 opening show. The cast consists of 35 members with special needs and one paid neurotypical actor.

Johns Creek Arts Center marks building upgrades

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce commemorated the newly completed renovation of the Johns Creek Arts Center on Abbotts Bridge Road Feb. 22.

The facelift included repairing and finishing concrete floors throughout the entire 5,000-square-foot facility, and after nearly two decades, the interior walls were repaired and painted.

The renovation was entirely funded through a $96,000 grant from The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, which supports local non-profit

Change:

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The updated guidelines also allow sound amplification at the park on Milton Avenue because of its proximity to the street, Manning said.

The revisions allow up to two performers at one location if each person has their own permit.

“And that was part of the safety aspect,” she said. “We had a husbandwife team that wanted to perform. We had to turn them down, and so we just thought that two wouldn’t really increase the footprint that much, and a lot of people like to play an instrument, and another likes to sing.”

Manning said the permit requires annual renewal, but if performers apply at the end of the year the permit will roll over into the following year.

Also at the meeting, arts commissioners voted for staff to determine the viability of adding the sculpture Liquid Sunshine to the city’s permanent collection.

The sculpture by artist Michael Alfano is currently on display in Brooke Street Park behind City Hall as part of the 2022-24 Medley exhibit by the city and Arts Alpharetta. The five Medley sculptures are slated to be removed this

organizations. The grant also funded a new press, allowing the Arts Center to offer printmaking classes.

Rich Lockhart, the Chamber’s vice president of community development, spoke at the ceremony’s reception. Friends of the arts center, members from the Chamber and board members of the Arts Center also were on hand.

“Without the tremendous support from The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, this renovation would not have been possible,” said Stephanie Donaldson, executive director of the Arts Center.

CITY

The sculpture Liquid Sunshine by artist Michael Alfano is on display at Brooke Street Park behind Alpharetta City Hall. City staff are considering adding the piece to the city’s permanent collection.

summer.

The Feb. 27 vote did not require any financial commitment or binding agreement. City staff will bring the item back for formal approval at a future meeting.

Manning said Arts Alpharetta has funds that will likely pay for most of the sculpture, but there may be an additional cost to install the art if later approved.

Pocket park performance locations

• Old Roswell Street pocket park on Old Roswell Street behind Curahee Brewing Company

• North Main Street park at the corner of Milton Avenue and Main Street

• Roswell Street pocket park at the corner of Old Roswell and Roswell streets

• Canton Street pocket park at the corner Old Canton and Canton streets

• Alley between Smokejack and Berkshire Hathaway

• Oliver-Waters-McCollum Warehouses historical marker at Milton Avenue and Old Roswell Street

JOHNS CREEK ARTS CENTER/PROVIDED

Members of the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce as well as board members and friends of the Johns Creek Arts Center participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 22 to commemorate renovations to the Arts Center’s 5,000-square-foot building on Abbotts Bridge Road.

Sandy Springs Library hosts Southern fiction writers

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — During a stop on “The Magic & Karma Tour” at the Sandy Springs Library Feb. 27, Southern fiction writers Love Hudson-Maggio and Jennifer Moorman shared their stories, processes and inspirations.

Both say the genre has exploded in popularity since the pandemic.

Several themes tie together both books, including magic and karma, community, cultural cuisine and destiny.

“If you’ve read a lot of other Southern authors, everyone writes about the South differently,” Moorman said, “because every perspective about the South is different.”

Moorman’s “The Magic All Around,” published in January by Harper Muse, details a series of tasks that Mattie Russell must complete after the death of her mother.

In the genre of magical realism, which allows fantastical elements to slip into contemporary life, readers follow Russell as she discovers the secrets her mother left behind.

The 11th stop on their tour of the Atlantic Coast brought Tifton-native Moorman and Sandy Springs-native Hudson-Maggio to the Fulton County Library branch on Mount Vernon Highway.

“Talking to one of us is like talking to both of us,” Hudson-Maggio said. “It has worked out beautifully, because we have used our networks and our contacts, and we keep each other uplifted and love each other’s work.”

Her first book, “Karma Under Fire,” follows two star-crossed lovers from different corners of the globe.

The chapters alternate narration between Harlow Kennedy, an aspiring jewelry maker from Atlanta, and Tej Mayur, the son of a wealthy East Indian family and prominent chef at an Indian restaurant in Atlanta.

The journey from Atlanta to India and back again compares contemporary Indian and American culture, HudsonMaggio said.

“I discovered parallels between caste systems and color systems, which can happen in the United States and globally,” Hudson-Maggio said. “At the end of the day, it’s a rom-com, fun and fiction, but there are elements of

REBECCA LEVER/PROVIDED

Love Hudson-Maggio, left, author of “Karma Under Fire,” discusses her motivations and writing process with her friend, Jennifer Moorman, author of “The Magic All Around” and the three-part “Mystic Water” series, Feb. 27 at the Sandy Springs Library on Mount Vernon Highway.

history in there.”

She said the embrace of her book by Indian and American readers is largely due to research into the similar, yet distinct cultures.

“I like these difficult situations, where they’re almost extremes…how can I find people that are so different but similar at the same time,” HudsonMaggio said. “How can I bring them into a situation where they have to be together and see how it plays out?”

Nonprofit hosts authors

The Friends of the Sandy Springs Library collaborates with Mariettabased Bookmiser, an independent bookstore, to bring in authors to speak.

New York Times bestselling author Katherine Reay will discuss her latest book at the library March 20, “The Berlin Letter,” which follows women in the Central Intelligence Agency’s Venona Project during the 1980s.

The Sandy Springs branch of the Fulton County Library is at 395 Mount Vernon Highway.

Rebecca Lever, member of the Friends of the Sandy Springs Library Board, introduced the authors and their books to about 20 book lovers at the author talk. Lever was awarded the 2023 Mitzi O’Connell Care & Compassion Award by the Community Assistance Center, operating in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs.

“I’m very happy to say that I have had the opportunity to read both,” Lever said.

After the authors discussed their writing, relationship and thought process, they took questions from readers.

Many wanted to know when they could get their hands on new books.

While “Karma Under Fire” was

planned as the first installment in a three-part series, Hudson-Maggio said the lone sequel in the “Karma” series, “Bombay Baby,” comes out this fall.

Moorman plans to unveil the latest in the “Mystic Water” series April 2.

Other questions surrounded recipes from characters, their favorite books and their individual writing processes.

The tour, returning for the Atlanta Writers Conference at the Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel May 4, wraps up in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 16.

How the authors met

The two Southern fiction writers traced their journeys from growing up in Georgia to traveling up and down the Atlantic Coast for their authors talk.

Moorman is a senior editor at HarperCollins Publishers in Nashville and the bestselling author of the “Mystic Water” series — “The Baker’s Man,” “The Necessity of Lavender Tea” and “A Slice of Courage Quiche.”

“We have similar threads of destiny, faith and karma,” Moorman said. “I think we have that commonality in our stories, where our characters reach that fork in the road or crossroads, and they need to take control of the next steps.”

Hudson-Maggio is the founder and CEO of a marketing technology firm and former screenwriting fellow at Columbia University in New York.

Moorman and Hudson-Maggio met in the Hamptons, an affluent community on eastern Long Island’s South Fork in New York.

“Basically, we met at a party in the Hamptons back in July, which is so [bourgeois],” Hudson-Maggio said.

The library meeting room erupted in laughter at the joke.

“We connected with other authors who were going to be at this event,” Hudson-Maggio said. “We decided to share a house because the Hamptons are ridiculous, right?”

The two authors, who had never met, decided to stay in a cottage away from the main house at the property.

After one phone call, the women decided to hop on the same flight and carpool to Long Island, New York.

After the four-day event in the Hamptons, the duo became best friends, they said.

A six-month process, including work with a publicist, concluded with “The Magic & Karma Tour,” drawing from the titles of their Southern fiction books.

“When we came back, we literally talked every day,” Hudson-Maggio said. “And in one of those conversations, [Moorman] said ‘why don’t we do a book tour?’”

Chattahoochee High School students, members of the Chattahoochee Inventeam, speak with guests after its presentation on their MIT-grant funded invention to remove methane and nitrogen dioxide caused by household gas stoves at the school’s media center Feb. 27.

Device:

Continued from Page 10

out as part of a communications team, others search for ways to finance the project, and some are more hands-on in building the device with technical skills or through sustainability research and practices to test it.

The project is unaffiliated with Chattahoochee High School, meaning students are carving out time outside of school and extracurriculars to do the work. Lin Lee, their sponsor and the school’s media specialist, did the recruitment — this is her second goaround leading a team that made it to the final round of applications.

After each smaller team explained their part in the project, the audience asked questions and provided suggestions, mostly on how to close funding gaps. The young entrepreneurs described the difficulty in finding funds outside of the grant, which has restrictions, but they said they are determined to present the project on a national scale.

In June, the team will fly out to MIT for the presentation during Lemelson-MIT’s EurekaFest and afterward, work on obtaining a patent. The event Feb. 27 was more-or-less a rehearsal.

Johns Creek City Councilman/ Mayor Pro Tem Dilip Tunki attended,

Chattahoochee Inventeam

• Lin Lee - Sponsor and media specialist at Chattahoochee High School

• Sophie Lin - Administrative student lead

• Keefer Lin - Technical lead

• Riley Jocham - Technical team

• Shiven Gupta - Technical team

• Srinidhi Chebrolu - Sustainability lead

• David Xibille - Sustainability team

• Paola Leal - Financial lead

• Sophia Knudsen - Financial team

• Moukthika RajalaCommunications lead

• Kennedy Bailey - Communications team

• Kristen Lee - Communications team

carrying certificates of recognition for each of the 11 students. He also described the oncoming makerspace at Cauley Creek Park which will have a robotics platform. He said the city will likely seek a request for proposal in the summer, once engineering and construction documents are completed.

“I’m really proud of the team and the project you did, the innovation,” Tunki said. “One of eight schools in the U.S. is a really great accomplishment.”

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Sophie Lin, the administrative student lead on the Chattahoochee Inventeam, introduces the group’s project at Chattahoochee High School’s media center Feb. 27.

Calendar

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

What: Step into the enchanted world of this modern classic, based on the Academy Award-winning animated film of the same name.

When: March 8-24, times vary

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets starting at $44

More info: cityspringstheatre.com

THE RUBY SUNRISE

What: Presented by Act1 Community Theatre, “The Ruby Sunrise” charts the course of the phenomenon of television through a girl named Ruby.

When: March 8-24, times vary

Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta

ROSWELL DANCE STARZ PRESENTS: CHARLIE AND THE DANCE FACTORY

What: Step inside your favorite candy factory and into the wacky world of candy and sweets, with this production featuring a diverse range of dance styles including jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, and hip hop.

When: Saturday, March 9, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell

Cost: $16.50

More info: roswell365.com

A NIGHT WITH DADS 2: THE DADDENING

What: Comedians from improv comedy theater Dad’s Garage will perform.

When: Saturday, March 9, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody

Cost: $15-28

More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

THE ART OF MOVEMENT GALLERY EXHIBIT

What: Focusing on the theme of movement, this exhibition presents artworks that depict dynamic motion, capturing the energy and fluidity of the human body, animals, or inanimate objects. The opening reception is March 16 from 5 to 7 p.m.

When: March 13-May 4, business hours

Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238

MARCH

Canton Street, Alpharetta

More info: artsalpharetta.org

POP-UP PERFORMANCE SERIES: MARLA FEENEY BAND

What: Marla Feeney, an Atlanta-based vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, will perform. With a love for jazz and classical performance as well as country, blues, bluegrass, folk, and special ethnic music, she plays violin, clarinet, saxophone and flute.

When: Thursday, March 14, 7 p.m.

Where: Mimosa Hall and Gardens, 127 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell

Cost: $35

More info: roswellartsfund.org/popup

THE SLAVE DWELLING PROJECT: LECTURE AND AUTHOR DISCUSSION

What: Joseph McGill, Jr. and Herb Frazier will discuss their book “Sleeping with the Ancestors: How I

Followed the Footprints of Slavery,” a personal account of one man’s groundbreaking project to sleep overnight in the countless, oftoverlooked, former slave dwellings that still stand across the country, the fascinating history behind those sites, and how he has used the experiences to shed light on larger issues of race in America. The event is free.

When: Friday, March 15, 6 p.m.

Where: Mimosa Hall and Gardens, 127 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell More info: roswell365.com

JOHNS CREEK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS BRILLIANT BEETHOVEN

What: Join the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra as they commemorate Ludwig van Beethoven in this 200th anniversary concert celebrating the debut of his monumental Symphony No. 9,

featuring soloists and the Johns Creek Chorale.

When: Saturday, March 16, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek

Cost: $20-50

More info: johnscreeksymphony.org

INTO THE WOODS JR.

What: A production of Jerry’s Habima Theatre, “Into the Woods Jr.” weaves together the stories of some of your favorite storybook characters including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, a cunning wolf, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel, and a baker and his wife who have been cursed by a witch.

When: March 7-17, times vary

Where: Marcus Jewish Community Center, 5342 Tilly Road, Dunwoody Cost: $10-36

More info: atlantajcc.org

A walk in the woods en route to lifelong memories

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

My daughter Amelia is usually very creative in coming up with birthday and Christmas presents. Instead of going out and just spending money, often she creates her presents. Those, almost without fail, are treasured. For Christmas last year, she knocked one out of the ballpark; I got a hike. This was not just any hike. It was a hike with her for two days and a night up to the hike-in/hike-out Len Foote Hike Inn at Amicalola Falls State Park.

For those of you who are not familiar with Len Foote – and I was not – it is literally a shining diamond in the rough less than an hour north of Alpharetta. From where we parked at the welcome center, we hiked along a path, a moderate 4.9 miles through mountain laurel thickets and stands of oak, pine, sweet gum, and ash. We crossed small creeks; bathed in the silence of the forest; and talked and talked – about everything and nothing.

Amelia stopped frequently to admire native flora – bright green patches of moss, mushrooms, lichen, St. John’s wort, and medicinal understory plants like yellow root and witch hazel. She is studying soil ecology as well as native flora these days, so the walk was like

traveling through a living classroom/ museum for both of us. We stayed in a continual state of excitement and wonder as we hiked slowly toward the Len Foote.

It seemed like we couldn’t go more than 50 paces without stopping to admire something – usually green, growing along our path – or something else – usually some shade of brown, in a state of decomposition – that is, in the process of becoming soil again. Fallen trees in differing states of decay covered the forest floor – rich loam-filled musty cavities now that once had been vital hardwood trees – giant vertical aqueducts transporting gallons of water by the hour up through branches and out to leaves which, in-turn, converted light into sugars, carbon and oxygen while at the same time – below – filled the soil with literally miles of earth-nourishing, carbon-sequestering mycorrhizal fungal networks (basically root systems) which form the “circulatory system of the entire planet.”

With each step Amelia and I took, we were both literally and figuratively at “ground zero” for the entire planet. We were certainly, as we hiked on, “not in Kansas” – or Alpharetta – anymore – and we knew it and savored every minute.

We did not hurry. It took us almost four hours to arrive at Len Foote. Had we not stopped so often – and we both were glad that we did – I am sure that the hike would have been closer to a little over two hours.

Len Foote, named after a politically savvy Georgia ecologist, was a breathtaking surprise – very reasonably priced, small, super clean, organized, impeccably maintained, and run by welcoming knowledgeable staff who obviously appreciated us, as well as those rotting trees, the mycorrhizal fungal networks, and the “story” of the forest and its role in our lives.

Physically the inn is four or five connected wooden buildings – the lobby, the bedrooms (very small/sleeps 2 –bunks), the kitchen / dining hall, the bath and shower area, and the game and reading areas. All told, I think there may have been close to 40 folks staying at the Inn when we were there, probably close to capacity. Our stay included dinner and breakfast. The food, served family style in the dining room, far exceeded expectations. Staff offered bag lunches for those who wanted to hike out with food!

The guests at Len Foote were one of the highlights; they were a big part of what made our visit special. Perhaps half – maybe more – of our fellow hikers was a dad or a mom accompanied by a son or daughter. Everyone enjoyed the meals together. We conversed. We laughed. We compared notes. I didn’t see a single cell phone used in the dining room, and in general, cell phones were rarely seen.

We sat at one of the smaller tables for dinner – large enough for six. There was Amelia and me, a dad with his (my

guess) 9-year-old son from Marietta, and a dad with his (my guess) 12-year-old daughter from Duluth. There were a lot of dads there. I suppose it was another part of why we enjoyed our stay as much as we did – being around groups of people – especially a parent and a kid – whose obvious intention was to spend meaningful quality time with each other, something I would have to call both nurturing and, in a way, healing.

After dinner, most folks retreated to the game room for reading, board games, puzzles, or a pass with one of the acoustic guitars provided. Some sat out on the porch in rocking chairs. Others wandered down to the lookout over the valley while others attended a lecture by a park ranger about the national parks –slide show included!

The next morning, Amelia and I hiked back to my truck – all smiles. That feeling lasted a long time; the memories will last longer.

Thank you, Amelia, for such a wonderful present. Thank you, Len Foote staff, for who you are and what you do. Readers, thank you for reading and supporting our newspapers; your support truly makes a critical difference to us and helps us stay in the game for you. Please consider joining The Appen Press Club if you have not already joined.

Slow down. Take a hike – maybe with your spouse, maybe with your son or daughter. Len Foote is a great goal.

Don’t be in a hurry.

Home Demonstration Clubs were vital to past farm life

Home Demonstration Clubs for Georgia women began in 1918 and continued through the 1950s. They were important to the farming family, especially during the Great Depression and World War II.

Many counties in Georgia, including DeKalb and Fulton counties, had a Home Demonstration agent, as part of the County Extension Service. The agents traveled around demonstrating methods of preserving food, such as canning or freezing. They sometimes shared other skills including sewing.

In early years, Home Demonstration agents often traveled by horse and buggy. If the visit involved a lesson in canning and the group had no canning equipment, the agent brought a canner. (Atlanta Journal, May 10, 1959, “Canning was main topic in

buggy days, she recalls”)

After Ethel Warren came to Dunwoody and married Stephen Spruill in 1933, she became involved with the Dunwoody Home Demonstration Club. She recalled Katherine Strong Rudeseal was the agent for DeKalb County. (“Story of Dunwoody,” by Elizabeth L. Davis and Ethel W. Spruill)

Spruill participated in contests at the annual Harvest Festival, a DeKalb County fair held in Panthersville. Ethel Spruill won contests for cooking with chicken, eggs and for her canning skills. She won the Sears Roebuck’s canning contest and a baking contest sponsored by Fleishman Yeast in 1949.

Young people participating in 4-H were able to learn the same skills. At the time, the focus was farming for boys and food preservation and other home skills for girls. Opal Ward was the Fulton County Home Demonstration agent and Rubye Nance was assistant agent in 1936. The two women gave a demonstration to the Roswell 4-H Club girls. (Atlanta Constitution, June 4,

1936, “Roswell 4-H Club”)

Lois Coogle recalls the Sandy Springs Home Demonstration Club in her book, “Sandy Springs Past Tense.” Coogle says Nell Glass shared her knowledge of cooking and canning, much of which she learned from the Home Demonstration Club. Glass managed her vegetable garden and fruit trees on her own after her husband died. She also kept a cow and chickens, sharing the eggs with her neighbors.

Octie Nance was president of the Sandy Springs Home Demonstration Club in 1935. The March meeting included a program called, “Personality as applied to clothing,” and a committee was formed to beautify the corner of Dunwoody Road and Roswell Road. County agent Opal Ward also attended the meeting. (Atlanta Constitution, April 1, 1935, “Sandy Springs Club”)

The Brookhaven September 1953 Home Demonstration Club meeting featured the topic of storage space. The meeting was held at the home of Mary Robinson on Os-

borne Road and featured a demonstration on storage space solutions. (Atlanta Constitution, Sep. 23, 1953, “Storage is topic”)

Elsie Barrow’s story demonstrates how the Home Demonstration Club was a place not only to learn but for women to visit with neighbors and become part of a community. When H.B. and Elsie Barrow moved to a home on Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody in 1947, Elsie felt like “it was the end of the world.” However, soon the Methodist minister rode over on his bike. Then, Ethel Spruill and Arva Floyd came to visit and soon Elsie “… began to love the people and loved the Home Demonstration Club.” (City of Dunwoody Remembers, 1994 oral history, DeKalb History Center archives, available on YouTube)

Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

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A remarkable house born of two centuries

The 1832 Georgia land lottery offered Cherokee lands in North Fulton and elsewhere to Georgia citizens. Two kinds of lottery drawings were held that year, one for 160-acre land lots and one for 40-acre gold lots. Gold lots were where it was thought gold might exist.

Gold lot 678, in today’s city of Milton, was drawn by William Flanders of Emanuel County. The state granted the property to him on May 10, 1839. Flanders probably flipped the property by selling it to another person whose name is not known because some of the early deed books are missing. The next known record of the lot was in a Milton County property tax digest of 1868. It showed that lot 678, along with lot 619, also 40 acres, was processed by Madison Jameson, administrator of the estate of Ambrose Phillips, deceased. The Phillips family owned the property from sometime before 1860 until 1932.

We know this thanks to the efforts of Austin Stephens, a researcher of historic properties who was engaged in 2015 by the owners of the property, Robert and Joan Rushton, to research its history.

The Rushton family purchased the property in December 1990 and extensively renovated the house and its outbuildings and yard. They kept detailed records of their renovations.

The original house was built prior to 1860 in the hall and parlor style which was popular in Colonial and postColonial periods. Hall and parlor houses were simple side-gabled structures, two rooms wide and one room deep with two front doors opening into the hall and parlor from a front porch. The house had oak log joists supporting the floor with some of the original bark remaining today. Wall and ceiling boards were planed by hand with boards of random width, some as wide as 23 inches.

One of the highlights of the house is a rare dining room ceiling painted in the 1850s by an itinerant German painter. He used two colors and smudged the ceiling with smoke from a candle or lantern to create the impression of marble. The technique was developed in the 1830s by German Moravian school teachers to teach geometry. Two- or three-dimensional Moravian stars with anywhere from six to more than 100 points were used by teachers.

Moravians sometimes painted stars or other designs on ceilings. The Thomas Byrd House in Milton, now serving as

SCHULZ FAMILY/PROVIDED

Cindy and Troy Schulz purchased the farmhouse in 2020 and have continued to enhance the home and property. Here, they are shown in front of an arbor in the front yard. They live there with their daughters, Sadie and Savannah, several dogs and two donkeys.

the Milton Senior Center, has a beautiful Moravian star painted on one ceiling. It is the only other example of this technique in the area. The Rushton ceiling has a geometric design rather than a star.

The Rushtons purchased the house from the family of farmer Claude W. and Etta Tatum who had bought the house in 1944. Claude was noted for his peach orchard. The property was originally 80 acres, but pieces have been sold over the years so that today it occupies 3 acres.

Soon after moving in the Rushtons sought a building permit to begin rehabilitation of the house. They were told that the house was too close to the road, so they moved it back and put in a basement. They did extensive work on the house in 1991 and 1992, including extending the kitchen and a porch. They had plans to add bedrooms and bathrooms – then fate stepped in.

The Champions View golf course was under construction near the property. A Sears Roebuck manufactured kit home was in the way of the golf course. The Rushton’s acquired the house, moved it to their property and joined their two houses together. Renovations of the new house continued throughout 1993, including installation of reclaimed antique heart pine flooring. Several outbuildings, including a barn built in the late 1800s, needed work. Beginning circa 2000 new structures were added including a garage and garden house modeled after antique farm buildings.

In June 2020 Cindy and Troy Schulz purchased the house. Originally from

RUSHTON FAMILY/PROVIDED

The oldest part of this house was built before 1860 by Ambrose Phillips, a Confederate soldier whose family owned the it until 1932. It was built in the hall and parlor style popular in the Colonial and post-Colonial periods. These were simple, side-gabled houses, two rooms wide and one room deep. This photo shows the house in 1923. Obviously, it had been modified over the years.

The barn dates back to the early 1900s. It is in the style of English gable roof barns popular at that time. They were easily built by farmers on stacks of field stones. Hay was tossed, or “bucked” up, to the second level from a wagon for storage. At some point, side sheds were added to the structure.

Wisconsin and more recently from Canton where they lived for 13 years, the Schulz’s wanted to live on a “hobby farm” with animals. They also wanted to be nearer to Troy’s work as facilities manager at Kings Ridge School where he was also coach of girls’ basketball for many years. Cindy does clinical research supporting pharmaceutical companies.

Cindy says “I have been drawn to historic homes since I was a little girl visiting my cousin every summer. She lived on historic properties with barns and animals.”

To make the point, the Schulzes have recently adopted two donkeys from Jack of Trades Donkey Rescue in Alpharetta.

Jackie Mannaert, the owner, says

‘We rescue, rehab and rehome donkeys.” Over the past 3½ years, Jackie has rescued about 130 donkeys from unfortunate situations.

The Schulzes have been busy sprucing up their yard to prepare for their daughter Sadie’s wedding in May under the large black walnut tree next to the house. Their other daughter, Savannah, will be maid of honor.

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

BOB MEYERS Columnist

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Fulton County Extension offers growth opportunities

Have you ever looked at a plant in your yard and wondered why some branches and leaves seem to be dying? Have you noticed that your Bermuda grass lawn isn’t growing as well as you want it to? Has your water started smelling or tasting unusual? These are all questions that the extension office is here to help answer! We offer different services to determine the causes of these issues.

Soil testing

All plants (like people) have nutrient requirements, and these needs must be met for successful growth. We may notice that plant growth has remained static for an extended period of time, or that a plant that was green and full is now brown and patchy. These plants are trying to tell us that they need something to continue to grow, and it’s up to us to figure out what they need.

Our most popular service that we offer is soil testing. These tests are personalized for what’s being grown (lawns, vegetables, ornamental plants, trees, etc.) and look at their required nutrients and compare that to what’s present in the soil. The tests look at the pH of the soil, as well as the macronutrients that are present. Macronutrients are those that are required in larger amounts such as: nitrogen(N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn). If any of these nutrients are low or high, the test also gives fertilization and liming recommendations to bring them to the appropriate levels.

The best time to get your soil tested is about 8-10 weeks before you start a new landscaping project. This gives you time to get your results back and apply the recommendations, so your soil is sufficiently prepared for the new plantings. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t test the soil for your established plants, lawn and trees, especially if something isn’t growing well. Once you get your soil tested and you follow the recommendations given, you shouldn’t need to get it tested again for 1-2 more years. If you’re growing a vegetable garden, we do recommend more frequent testing. Vegetable plants need a lot of nutrients to produce, and therefore may need more supplementation from season to season.

Plant disease testing

When you ask us why your plant or lawn is struggling, the first two questions

UGA EXTENSION/PROVIDED

For questions about soil testing, contact the Fulton County Extension Office at 4046137670 or email northfulton.extension@uga.edu.

we may ask are: When was the last time your soil was tested? and What is the current growing environment for the plant and has anything in that environment changed recently? Sometimes the nutrients are at the appropriate levels, and the plant is in its ideal environment, but it is still showing signs of struggling. Plants and grasses can get diseases from the environment and insects, and it’s important to identify the proper cause before determining a control strategy. We try to identify the disease in the office,

About the Author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Norlethia Harris, the Agriculture & Natural Resources educator in Fulton County Extension. Norlethia loves animals (both large and small) and after graduating with a degree in animal sciences, she discovered a love for gardening after starting her own vegetable garden. In addition to helping coordinate the Fulton County Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program, Norlethia answers client questions about gardening, delivers educational programming to Fulton County residents and provides additional support to the two Agricultural & Natural Resources agents.

but sometimes we send a plant sample to the lab for additional testing. The results that you get back are similar to the soil testing results. They identify the disease or problem and give recommendations to combat the problem. If you have any questions on how to submit a plant sample, please do not hesitate to contact the Fulton County Extension Office.

Water testing

We not only offer services centered

Learn more

•Soil Testing Your Home Lawns, Gardens, and Wildlife Plots: https:// secure.caes.uga.edu/extension/ publications/files/pdf/C%20896_6.PDF

• Soil Testing in Georgia: https:// aesl.ces.uga.edu/soiltest123/Georgia. htm?23-0207

• Testing for Water Quality Circular 858-2: https://extension.uga.edu/ publications/detail.html?number=C858-2

• Testing for Water Quality: https:// secure.caes.uga.edu/extension/ publications/files/pdf/C%20858-2_2. PDF

• Household Water Quality Series: https://extension.uga.edu/publications/ series/detail/29/household-water-quality. html

• Fulton County Extension Testing Services: https://extension.uga.edu/ county-offices/fulton/agriculture-andnatural-resources/testing-services.html

around landscaping, but water as well. Municipal water is heavily regulated and must meet standards that have been put in place by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As a result, water is tested regularly to ensure that it meets those standards. The most common cause of problems that residents may see are caused by issues that occur after the water has entered the home. This may be due to corrosion of the plumbing in the house, or even materials used in the plumbing lines. You may notice that your water is suddenly tasting weird, your fixtures have buildup, or there is discoloration in your sink, tub or toilets. Testing your water lets you know if you need to install filtration systems or softeners in your water system.

Private well water is neither monitored nor regulated by any governmental agency, therefore homeowners are responsible for any testing to make sure that it is safe for consumption. It is recommended that you get your well water tested on a regular basis to make sure that it is being properly contained and contaminants aren’t being introduced from an outside source. Additional testing is recommended if there are any significant environmental changes around your wellhead such as flooding, significant construction nearby, the installation of a new treatment system, as well as many other reasons. For more information on water testing recommendations, please check out the resources we have provided.

For questions regarding any of our testing services, please contact our North Fulton Office at 404-613-7670 or by email at northfulton.extension@uga. edu. To drop off samples, please visit our office at the North Fulton Service Center (7741 Roswell Road, Ste 248, Atlanta, GA, 30350). You can also reach us at 404-613-4920 to schedule a time to drop off samples at our South Office (1757 E. Washington Road, East Point, GA 30344).

Happy gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/ opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/.

Save the Date! Garden Faire 2024 will be held on April 20, 2024, at The Grove at Wills Park. https://www.nfmg. net/garden-faire.html

NORLETHIA HARRIS Guest Columnist

No scraps at Daytona; there’s always the Oscars

MIKE TASOS Columnist

The NASCAR season ended a day later than it was supposed to this year. Thanks to enough liquid Florida sunshine that turned the long Presidents’ Day into an even longer holiday for banks and government employees, I’ve concluded this year’s participation in enjoying those machines only make left turns.

Don’t scratch your head and tell Velma Mae: “He’s done lost his spaghetti. We’ve still got racing in Atlanta, Darlington, Talladega and all those hallowed places where moonshiners came of age and became legendary names so many years ago.”

NASCAR has certainly changed. Corporate sponsors have removed some of the “if you ain’t rubbin’, you aint’ racin’” sports charm. The good old boys have gone aground. There was nary a drawl to be found. NASCAR always meant a good infield scrap or two. Nothing close to fisticuffs this year. The driver interactions were civil to the point I wondered if they were they were offering a jar of Grey Poupon to one another.

I watched the entire Daytona 500.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE

PH-24-AB-03

Please note that this meeting will be a virtual meeting, conducted online using Zoom meetings.

PLACE

To Attend the Virtual Meeting:

Using Your Computer, Tablet or Smartphone

Go to: https://zoom.us

Meeting ID: 823 9184 7660

Dial In: +1 646 558 8656 US March 18, 2024 at 2:00 P.M.

PURPOSE

Eating Establishment

Consumption on Premises

Distilled Spirits, Beer, Wine & Sunday Sales

APPLICANT

The Tipsy Spoon, LLC

64 North Main Street

Alpharetta, GA 30009

Owner: The Tipsy Spoon, LLC

Registered Agent: Jodi Chieco

Every single lap. I was certain there were guys who drive just like those Atlanta nitwits who have turned tailgating into an art form. No cops but those gorgeous cars at the start of the race became mangled, twisted and nearly unrecognizable by the checkered flag.

Now, I don’t know racing. But I know that whenever there’s any kind of mishap at Daytona, I reflect to watching Dale Earnhardt look like he barely tapped the wall late in the race. That “tap” killed him. I was flabbergasted that night when discussing the result with my late brother-in-law, Ginsburg Gussion. He thought IO was full of Mobil One and insisted it was a sick joke I was pulling on him.

That wreck simply didn’t look that bad. Until it was.

How fitting that this year’s winner, 26-year-old William Byron, drove the No.24 car, was a replacement for retired Jeff Gordon, Earnhardt’s arch nemesis for all those years.

Hey wait a minute. Maybe I know more about this than I think. No matter. I’ll stay away until Daytona 2025.

With Daytona concluded, I’m looking forward to this year’s Oscars. Oops. Sorry. I’m not looking forward to the cringe-worthy display of self-

CITY OF ALPHARETTA

PUBLIC NOTICE

PH-24-AB-04

Please note that this meeting will be a virtual meeting, conducted online using Zoom meetings.

PLACE

To Attend the Virtual Meeting:

Using Your Computer, Tablet or Smartphone

Go to: https://zoom.us

Meeting ID: 823 9184 7660

Dial In: +1 646 558 8656 US March 18, 2024 at 2:00 P.M.

PURPOSE

Eating Establishment

Consumption on Premises

Distilled Spirits, Beer, Wine & Sunday Sales

APPLICANT

LOKHO, LLC

d/b/a Hen Mother Cookhouse

50 South Main Street, Suite 3A Alpharetta, GA 30009

Owner: LOKHO, LLC

Registered Agent: Soraya Khoury

aggrandizement crammed into a way-toolong broadcast. Maybe Chris Rock can find someone to brawl with now that Will Smith has earned a 10-year exile to the green room.

Frankly, I could care less about the Hollywood bozos who will bust the seat out of their rented tuxedos. This is a rare year where I saw a handful of the nominated movies.

Oscar and I rarely see things eyeto-eye. But this year I liked a flick that I found on Netflix, “Nyad,” that starred nominees Annette Benning and Jodie Foster. It was noteworthy in that Diana Nyad kept trying to swim from Cuba to

Florida all those times, finally… Well, I’ll not spoil it. Rest assured, it’s worth your time.

Then there’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Oppenheimer,” and “The Holdovers” with Best Actor Nominee Paul Giamatti.

None of those films or actors will win.

I just don’t get Hollywood. But it did get a little bit of my money this year.

Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@gmail.com.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following item will be considered by the City Council on Monday, March 4, 2024 and Monday, March 18, 2024 during the Alpharetta City Council Meeting and Public Hearing, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers located at 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

a. The Code of the City of Alpharetta, Georgia Text Amendments – City Parks Rules and Regulations

Consideration of an ordinance to amend Article I, Chapter 32 of The Code of the City of Alpharetta, Georgia relating to the rules and regulations for parks owned and operated by the City and events occurring in city parks; to provide an effective date; and for other purposes.

THE CITY OF ROSWELL SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITS 2023 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION REPORT AND ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Roswell is seeking public comment on its 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). The CAPER is an annual report that must be submitted to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and describes the use of the City’s entitlement funds for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The draft plan will be available to the public starting on Friday March 8, 2024. Hard copies will also be available for review at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Suite 130, Roswell, GA 30075; the Roswell Public Library, 115 Norcross Street, Roswell, GA 30075; the East Roswell Public Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, GA 30076; and the Roswell Housing Authority, 199 Grove Way, Roswell, GA, 30075. An electronic copy will also be posted on the City of Roswell’s website: www.roswellgov.com/ CDBG.

Public comments may be submitted by email to CDBG@roswellgov.com or in writing at suite 130 in City Hall. All public comments must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday March 25, 2024 and will be submitted to HUD along with the CAPER. In addition, the public will also have an opportunity to comment on this report and discuss CDBG plans at a Public Hearing on Thursday March 21, 2024 at 12:00 PM in Room 220 of City Hall.

Persons needing special accommodations should contact the City of Roswell Grants Division Office at City Hall. An interpreter is available upon request to assist persons with limited English proficiency. The City of Roswell does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission of, access to, or treatment of, or employment with the programs and activities described herein. Please contact Charles Alford, (770) 641-3847, CDBG@roswellgov.com, with any questions.

The following item will be heard at a public hearing held by the Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Roswell City Hall Council Chambers, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia.

a. BZA20240639 - 10800 Alpharetta Hwy (10855 Houze Road)

The applicant, Jennifer Losurdo/Genesis Engineering, is requesting a Variance for Build-to Zone Requirements; land lot 484.

The complete file is available for public view at the Roswell Planning & Zoning Office, 38 Hill Street, Suite G-30, Roswell, GA, 770.817.6720 or planningandzoning@roswellgov.com. Refer to www.roswellgov.com.

Locally Owned and Operated

• Pre-planning

• Funeral Services

CADILLAC JACK MY SECOND ACT

New Show, Same Ride.

• Grief Support

• Veteran Services

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770-645-1414

info@northsidechapel.com

www.northsidechapel.com

During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.

12050 Crabapple Road

• Roswell, GA 30075

In Memoriam

Conor Ryan Rundell

Conor Ryan Rundell, 28, of Marietta, Georgia passed away on February 18, 2024, in Rawlings, WY. He was a victim of a severe car accident. He was born November 22, 1995, at North Fulton Hospital in Roswell Georgia.

Conor was such an outgoing person who made friends effortlessly. Wherever he went, whether in a store, restaurant, or neighborhood, he connected with people. The neighborhood kids always wanted to play catch or kick the ball around with him. Conor had a special love for animals, especially dogs and cats, who seemed to be drawn to him. He was a true animal lover and worked with the “no-kill shelters in the area.”

Rundell, Cousin Liz Knesley, Uncle Larry Hornby, Aunt Lori Nichol, Aunt Jean Mc Neil, Aunt Lesa Lewald, stepbrothers Bryan, Brandon, and Justin Fowler.

Conor was in the process of finding a new career. Currently, he was in the McDonalds management program. One goal was to join the management team here in Marietta. His other long-term goal was to join the military. He was leaning toward either the Air Force or Navy. He had already passed their entrance exams.

Conor was preceded in death by his mother Linda Mary Rundell, and is survived by his father, David Rundell, stepmother Robin, sister Kati Gardner and her husband Tim, niece Mary Magnolia Gardner, brother Colin Rundell, Uncle Bob Rundell, Aunt Judy

Conor had a few hobbies he enjoyed. Conor was blessed with a high mechanical aptitude. He started to do light remodeling with a few friends and had learned skills in basic framing, drywall, and light plumbing. He also was learning more about car mechanics.

Conor was a graduate of Roswell High School in May 2015.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the ASPCA.

The following item will be considered by the Mayor and City Council at a public hearing on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Roswell City Hall Council Chambers, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia.

a. CU 20230197/CV 20230195 - 400 Vickery Falls Drive

The applicant, J. Alexander Brock/Smith, Gambrell, and Russell, LLP, is requesting a Conditional Use for townhomes with two Concurrent Variances; land lot 383.

b. RZ 20235106 - 630 Colonial Park Drive

The applicant, Imran Balkhi/ILM Academy, Inc., is requesting a Rezoning from OP (Office Park) to CX (Commercial Mixed Use); land lot 487.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a City Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250), within two (2) years, file a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law is available in the office of the City Attorney.

The complete file is available for public view at the Roswell Planning and Zoning Office, 38 Hill Street, Suite G-30, Roswell, Georgia, (770) 817-6720, or planningandzoning@roswellgov.com. Refer to www.roswellgov.com.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following item will be heard at a public hearing held by the Historic Preservation Commission on Thursday, April 11, 2024, commencing at 3:00 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Items forwarded by the Historic Preservation Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, April 29, 2024, commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

a. PH-24-09 Dr. Morris House/116 North Main Street – Historic Designation

Consideration of a request to designate the Dr. Morris House as historic. The property is located at 116 North Main Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1252, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Randy Knighton City of Roswell Kurt Russell City Administrator Notice of Public Hearing Mayor

Randy Knighton City of Roswell Kurt Wilson City Administrator Notice of Public Hearing Mayor

CITY OF ALPHARETTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following items will be considered by the City Council on Monday, March 18, 2024 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

a. PH-24-08 Windward Livable Centers Initiative (LCI)

Consideration of plan adoption of the Windward Livable Centers Initiative (LCI).

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for the City of Alpharetta, Fulton County, Georgia, Case No. 23-04-5816P.

The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) solicits technical information or comments on proposed flood hazard determinations for the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report for your community. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway. The FIRM and, if applicable, the FIS report have been revised to reflect these flood hazard determinations through issuance of a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), in accordance with Title 44, Part 65 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to adopt or show evidence of having in effect to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. For more information on the proposed flood hazard determinations and information on the statutory 90day period provided for appeals, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www. floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status/bfe_main.asp, or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).

DEATH NOTICES

William Arrington, 67, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 19, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Georgene Beelitz, 78, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 20, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Bonnie Cagle, 80, of Milton, passed away on February 18, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Pauline Kephart, 96, of Roswell, passed away on February 22, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Richard Korteling, 87, of Roswell, passed away on February 11, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Jacqueline Lyons, 96, of Roswell, passed away on February 9, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

NOTICE OF LOCATION AND DESIGN APPROVAL

P. I. 0017187

FULTON COUNTY

Notice is hereby given in compliance with Georgia Code 22-2-109 and 32-3-5 that the Georgia Department of Transportation has approved the Location and Design of this project.

The date of location and design approval is: January 31, 2024

The proposed project is located in Fulton County and is within Land District 1. The proposed project intends to widen SR 120/Old Milton Parkway from 4-lanes to 6-lanes with a 20-foot raised median from North Point Parkway to Kimball Bridge Road. All the widening except near the bridge over Big Creek will be to the inside. Total project length is approximately 2 miles. The project will replace the two existing bridges (EB & WB), that span over Big Creek and the Big Creek Greenway Trail, with one wider bridge.

The City of Alpharetta would be responsible for acquiring property rights for this project.

Drawings or maps or plats of the proposed project, as approved, are on file and are available for public inspection at the Georgia Department of Transportation:

Britni McCullough – Area Manager District 7, Area 2 bmccullough @dot.ga.gov

1268 Kennestone Circle Marietta, GA 30065 478-234-7985

Any interested party may obtain a copy of the drawings or maps or plats or portions thereof by paying a nominal fee and requesting in writing to:

Kimberly Nesbitt, Office of Program Delivery Administrator

Attn: Rodney Leverette, Project Manager RLeverette@dot.ga.gov

600 West Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, Ga. 30308 (404) 424-9033

Any written request or communication in reference to this project or notice SHOULD include the Project and P. I. Numbers as noted at the top of this notice.

Thi Si Nguyen, 92, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 19,2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Antonio Ricci, 90, of Roswell, passed away on February 24, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Rebecca Stiles, 82, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 7, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Dennis Turner, 77, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 21, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

George Venti, 89, of Alpharetta, passed away on February 24, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS – MULTIPLE OPENINGS - ALPHARETTA, GA

Intuites LLC needs professionals: Work using Java, SCM, TMS, SCV, Internal and Integration Testing, UAT, SQL. Req. – Bachelors + 2 yr Exp, Comp. salary, Relocate to unanticipated site. No National/International travel. Please mail resume to Ref: Director, 1740 Grassland Parkway, Ste 405, Alpharetta, Georgia, 30004.

TEACHERS

Fun Kidz @ Midway United Methodist Church is looking for teachers for our before/after school care program. If you are an early riser and love kids, we may be a perfect fit. Hours: 6:45am – 9:15am.

Contact Beth by email: beth@midwayumc.org or phone: 770-752-0440

REAL ESTATE ASSISTING

Healthy, hard-working, very tech-savvy lady, good organizing skills. 1-5 or 6pm. 2-3 days/week. My Johns Creek home. Also willing to help with home organization. Salary approx. $15+/hour based on performance & work accomplished. Have own reliable transportation. 678-524-3881 & send resume: realestatetreasure@msn.com

Office Space for Lease

x 14’). $/600 per month, first/last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references.

Space would be perfect for a bookkeeper or a self-employed person.

Contact via text or email: Ray Appen at 770-527-4042 or RayAppen@Gmail.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Bargains / Medical Equipment

MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIR

Merits Vision Sport. Less than a year old. Purchased 3/2023. $2800/obo. Alpharetta; must pick up. 352-391-4276

Landscaping

Carreno Landscaping

Monthly lawn maintenance, irrigation, sod installation, plants, mulch-fertilization, tree removal, pinestraw installation. 404-333-5107 or text address for work.

Flooring

PHILLIPS FLOORING

Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Regrouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Roofing

quality roofing. Based in Roswell. Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123.

Christian Brothers Roofing

Cemetery

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2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $5000 each! 770475-7307

Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4pm

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