Dozens of people sample chili at Fire Station 81 at the
Public
chili cookoff March 23. Proceeds from the ticketed event support programs and provide assistance to public safety personnel and their families.
Dozens of people sample chili at Fire Station 81 at the
Public
chili cookoff March 23. Proceeds from the ticketed event support programs and provide assistance to public safety personnel and their families.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — More than 100 people gathered at Fire Station 81 on Webb Bridge Road March 23 to sample chili and support public safety staff and their families.
The Alpharetta Public Safety Foundation hosted its chili cookoff from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Once an annual endeavor, the fundraiser took a pause
around 2018, then fired up the stoves for the 2024 gathering.
Proceeds from the fundraiser benefit Alpharetta Public Safety Department programs and equipment, as well as assisting employees and their families who may be in need.
At last count, the cookoff has raised $5,300, but funds are still being tallied.
See COOKOFF, Page 8
all of North Fulton and for the state.
ROSWELL, Ga. — The United Soccer League, the largest professional soccer organization in North America, is looking to Roswell to house professional teams.
The City Council approved a letter of intent with the United Soccer League March 25 to enter a nine-month exclusive negotiation period, exploring the possibility of developing a soccer stadium and entertainment district, anchored by a mixed-use development.
The site for the stadium and associated costs of the project has not been determined, though officials say the arena will seat at least 10,000.
Mayor Kurt Wilson said it will be a “transformational project” for the community,
“[It is] really quite an honor to be chosen by the USL for this,” Wilson said.
If negotiations prove successful, the organization would serve as the “anchor tenant” of the stadium, cementing the playing grounds for a USL Super League professional women’s team and a USL Championship professional men’s team. The league would have the right of first refusal to serve as the stadium operator/manager.
On behalf of Rep. Rich McCormick, Director of Outreach Suzanne Swain voiced excitement about the city’s prospects with the soccer group. McCormick represents District 6 for the Georgia House, which includes Roswell.
See VENUE, Page 4
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ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Police Department announced March 19 the closure of nine additional massage establishments in the City of Roswell, bringing the total of year-to-date closures to 16.
This action marks the latest step in an ongoing effort to uphold legitimacy and compliance within the local business community. Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson and the City Council have updated the city’s ordinances
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.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta man reported March 16 someone removed the wheels and tires from his vehicle outside his home on Gardner Drive.
The victim reported parking his vehicle around noon March 15, and when he came outside the next morning around 8 a.m., he found his vehicle sitting on two cinder blocks with all four wheels missing.
He said the lug nuts were left on the ground beside the vehicle, the report states.
No suspects have been identified.
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating a car break-in March 22 in the parking lot of Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill at Ga. 9 and Ga. 92.
Officers said the victim, a 27-yearold Roswell man, went to the restaurant around 10 p.m. to visit his girlfriend who
and codes to crack down on massage establishments that are operating illegally in the city.
During a targeted enforcement operation March 18, the following establishments were found to be operating without the necessary licenses and shut down:
• Care Therapeutic Health Services
LLC, 282 Rucker Road, Suite 90
• Ease Massage, 1085 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 140
works there.
The victim said he returned to his Jeep Grand Cherokee after about 30 minutes inside the restaurant to find the rear driver side window broken.
The victim also reported his Glock 29 pistol and two spare magazines as stolen, totaling around $700.
The restaurant’s manager spoke with officers and provided security footage from the parking lot.
Officers said the footage showed a white Toyota Camry pulled into the parking lot around 10:15 p.m., turned off its headlights and began pulling up next to parked cars.
Multiple people were observed exiting the Camry and shining lights into vehicles, officers said.
After viewing multiple camera angles, officers said they were unable to identify suspects because of rainy conditions.
The vehicle left the parking lot after 5 minutes, eventually heading south on Ga. 9.
At the time of the report, officers said they were not able to identify a tag number for the Camry.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta woman reported March 15 someone claiming to be with the Social Security Administration extorted her for $30,000 in Bitcoin.
• Lilly Massage, 10479 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 8
• M Massage, 900 Mansell Road, Suite 16
• Woori Massage, 1072 Alpharetta Street
• Yun Massage, 11230 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 112
• Spa Amore, 11285 Elkins Road, Suite J2
See CLOSURE, Page 17
The victim reported receiving an email that appeared to be from the Social Security Administration Feb. 16. She said she called the provided number and spoke with a woman, who told her the email was legitimate.
The victim said she received more emails and calls from people who claimed they worked with the SSA and the Drug Enforcement Administration, the report states.
The fake agency representatives reportedly accused her of wiring money to 10 to 15 Mexican bank accounts and said there was a vehicle rented in her name that was found in Texas with blood and narcotics inside.
The victim reported the suspects threatened to suspend her Social Security number and to obtain a warrant for her in Texas.
She reported being told things like, “This is an open investigation, and we cannot go into any details,” whenever she questioned what was happening.
The victim said the suspects told her to move $30,000 from her bank accounts and into Bitcoin so she could access the money after her Social Security number was suspended, and they directed her to a specific machine on Haynes Bridge Road, the report states.
The victim reported making the transactions between 4 and 5 p.m. March 14.
No suspects have been identified.
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“When I look across the state, and I see our district … we’ve got a prime location for so many of these great teams to come,” Swain said.
Last August, officials approved a $250,000 budget amendment to pay for professional services provided by Seer World, a consulting company headed by Peter Sorckoff.
The organization was hired to support the city’s efforts in securing a sports and entertainment district, leading a team consisting of the mayor’s chief of staff, Jamie Guzzetti (who is often around but not on the city’s 2023 list of current employees) and some councilmembers.
At the City Council meeting Monday night, Mayor Wilson also thanked city staff involved with the project, Deputy City Administrator Jeff Leatherman and Economic Development Director Darryl Connelly; members of tourism bureau Visit Roswell, including Executive Director Andy Williams and John Asbell, area manager for the Georgia Power Company; and Steve Shroud of Roswell Inc., an economic development arm for the city.
“What a great group of people that are really making things happen for the City of Roswell,” Wilson said. “Thank you Mr. Sorckoff for leading that group in such an elegant way.”
The payment to Seer World had come under scrutiny after it was approved without public discussion and without going through the city’s bidding process. Roswell Purchasing Manager Greg Anderson resigned the day before the Aug. 15 Administration, Finance, Recreation and Parks Committee meeting when the budget amendment for $250,000 in professional services was initially proposed.
But, Sorckoff had been doing work for the city before then. He led the City Council’s annual planning retreat earlier this year and in February 2023. According to a July 2023 invoice obtained by Appen Media, Sorckoff was paid more than $43,000 for “development planning and project support” from March to June.
In other matters March 25, the City Council approved an agreement with Fulton County Schools that would allow the city to establish more school speed zones with speed detection cameras. Permits required to operate the devices come from the Georgia Department of Transportation and are held in the name of the school.
Now, the city has two speed zones for Vickery Mill Elementary School and Holcomb Bridge Middle School. Police Chief James Conroy said those areas have seen a 92 percent reduction in speeding
as a result of the detection devices — from 1,956 violations per day to 156, meaning vehicles that traveled more than 10 mph over the posted speed limit.
Conroy said cameras have clocked someone driving 99 mph in the early afternoon one day in the Holcomb Bridge school zone and 82 mph was the highest speed recorded near Vickery Mill.
Councilwoman Lee Hills cast the lone dissenting vote, cautioning against a Big Brother approach to traffic violations, describing the accuracy of picking up details irrelevant to the offender.
“Just because we can put them in, doesn’t mean we have to put them in,” Hills said.
Chief Conroy said cameras focus on the license plate. He also said if a registered owner is cited but was not driving the vehicle during the violation, they can file an affidavit with the court.
Hills had also voiced her concerns at the Public Safety and Public Works Committee meeting March 12. In general, Roswell committee meetings are where councilmembers discuss the agenda items set to come before them at the regular meeting, but in more detail. These meetings are also the space where differences are hashed out.
While Mayor Kurt Wilson said he is a “devotee” of Ayn Rand, a major influence on the right-libertarian movement, and George Orwell, he advocated for the use of cameras and reiterated his position at the City Council meeting March 25.
“We already have a large police force in proportion to a city for our size, compared to most, because we support the police,” Wilson said. “... Sometimes we use technology to help adjunct what you’re trying to get done.”
The agreement symbolizes the “option” for Roswell to establish school speed zones equipped with devices, but Wilson said the city will likely install cameras around all schools controlled by the Fulton County Board of Education. There are more than a dozen in Roswell.
“I would be wildly surprised if that didn’t occur,” Wilson said.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Plans to redevelop the site of the former Harry’s Farmers Market into a subdivision at Upper Hembree and Harris roads have hit a snag amid density concerns.
At its March 25 meeting, the Alpharetta City Council voted 5-1 to defer any action on the project for a month. Mayor Jim Gilvin cast the dissenting vote, and Councilman Fergal Brady was absent.
Some councilmembers said the proposed 19-acre, single-family community could be an opportunity to provide housing to people who otherwise could not afford a home in Alpharetta.
The property, which sits near the Roswell border, was the former Harry’s Farmers Market until 2014, when it was converted into a Whole Foods corporate office and distribution center. The 145,000-square-foot facility has been vacant since 2017.
If redeveloped as presented, the Empire Communities project
This rendering shows a proposed high-density subdivision at the site of the former Harry’s Farmers Market off Upper Hembree and Harris roads. The Alpharetta City Council deferred the redevelopment plans to decrease the density and add a school bus stop and playground.
would include 149 detached homes; a community green space with a swimming pool and clubhouse; and pickleball courts.
Developers are asking for a
comprehensive land use plan amendment, variances and a rezoning from planned shopping center to high-density residential to build the community, Fernleaf Park.
From right, Community Development Director Kathi Cook recognizes Joy Ross at the March 25 Alpharetta City Council meeting. Seven properties were designated as historic during Ross’ time on the Historic Preservation Commission.
The project would require a 35-foot reduction to the property’s undisturbed buffer and a variance to lower the minimum width of each lot from 50 to 31 feet.
Developers said the proposed use would decrease the number of daily trips to and from the site.
Good Friday – March 29
7:00pm:
The Life and Passion of Christ in the Sanctuary. A moving service following the life, ministry, and passion of Jesus Christ.
Easter Sunday – March 31
7:00am:
Sunrise Service
8:30am:
Worship in the Historic Chapel
9:45am:
Lite-Bites Brunch. Gathering Area (Entrance nearest the bell tower)
11:00am:
Worship in the Sanctuary
5025 Atlanta Hwy. | Alpharetta, GA 30004 | 770.475.5230 | www.MidwayUMC.org
Good Friday • March 29
7:00 PM
Worship Service
Easter Sunday • March 31
7:00 AM
Sunrise Service in the Underground 9:30 AM
Worship Service
11:00 AM
Worship Service and Mount Pisgah en Español
2850 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 mountpisgah.org
Continued from Page 1
Police Lt. Andrew Splawn, who entered with his mother’s chili recipe, said the cookoff is all about helping public safety personnel get through tough times. While it was his first time participating, he said he hopes to get more involved.
The chili competition invited staff from the city’s Fire, Police and 911 departments and local businesses to present their best chili recipes. Police Department Accreditation Manager Katherine Fies said 22 teams participated this year.
Three belts were presented to the winning team in each category: people’s choice champion, public safety champion, and business or restaurant champion.
Guests voted for the people’s choice
by presenting tickets to their favorite team, and the business and public safety best categories were chosen by a panel of judges, including Alpharetta Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard and City Councilman Dan Merkel.
Alpharetta restaurant AJ’s Home Cooking won the people’s choice vote, and judges selected Carl Black Chevrolet as business champion. The Fire Corps’ “Over the Top” chili was selected as public safety best.
The Public Safety Foundation invited chef Tina Cannon for a chili demonstration between noon and 1 p.m. Cannon won season one of Netflix’s “Barbecue Showdown” in 2020.
Cannon cooked her jacked-up chicken chili, which won her a prize at the World Food Championships.
“So, to me, the main ingredient would be the time and heart you put into it, because it’s a labor of love,” she said.
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The developers of The Gathering at South Forsyth expressed confidence in securing a National Hockey League team in Forsyth County at a community meeting March 19.
More than 100 people packed into a conference room at Lanier Technical College to hear the latest updates from project staff and share their thoughts on the proposed $2 billion mixeduse development off Union Hill Road, Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Ga. 400.
The 90-minute meeting featured presentations by Krause Sports and Entertainment CEO Vernon Krause, The Gathering Senior Project Executive Frank Ferrara, SCI Architects partner Tone Frisina, Kimley-Horn Vice President Jim Hamilton and Nelson Worldwide principal Lamar Wakefield, who designed Alpharetta’s Avalon and The Battery in Cobb County.
“We think we have, by far, the best location, the best project, the best team to pull this thing off, and we’re going to do it,” Krause said.
Krause said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed enthusiasm
More than 100 people hear the latest updates on The Gathering at South Forsyth at a community meeting at Lanier Technical College March 19. The $2 billion planned development hopes to entice an NHL tenant for its 700,000-square-foot arena.
when he presented the plans to him in September, and discussions continued through the end of the year.
“In December, I met with him again, took our investment banker with us, and had a good, healthy discussion with him,” Krause said. “And he said, right before we left the room, he said, ‘Vernon, go get your deal done with the county. Bring me a binding MOU, memorandum of understanding, and I’ll tell you when to start the arena.’”
The Forsyth County Board of
Commissioners approved an agreement on principal terms and authorization to continue with The Gathering Jan. 31.
In the agreement, the county agreed to foot $350 million for the construction of the arena and $40 million for an arena parking deck through revenue-backed bonds if The Gathering secures an NHL tenant.
A binding agreement between the developers and the county is scheduled to be considered at a called Board of Commissioners meeting March 26.
Krause also recognized Alpharetta’s interest in securing an NHL tenant at its North Point Mall.
Alpharetta Sports and Entertainment Group announced March 12 its petition to the NHL with backing from Neil Leibman, Peter Simon and Aaron Zeigler in partnership with NHL veteran Anson Carter.
“So, rather than just go to the media and make up things, like I believe Alpharetta is doing, we are going to send a binding memorandum of understanding to the commissioner, and I think that puts us in the queue,” Krause said.
A vote on potential redevelopment plans for the Alpharetta mall is still pending. At the Alpharetta City Council annual planning retreat Jan. 22, Economic and Community Development Director Kathi Cook said the city anticipates North Point Mall owners New York Life will present new plans around this summer.
In a press release, Alpharetta Sports and Entertainment Group announced it is working with the mall owners to redevelop the property with
The main goal is to make sure people understand that the Village is so much more than one section, and it’s a destination.
LAUREN SOK, owner, Functionize Health & Physical Therapy
DUNWOODY, Ga. — In a continued effort to boost Dunwoody Village as the city’s downtown, a newly formed group of area business owners are working on a game plan.
Dunwoody Village, a neighborhood of shops, offices and residences along Chamblee Dunwoody Road near Mount Vernon Road, has been a focus for city officials for some time.
In 2011, the Dunwoody Village Master Plan was created through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Center Initiative grant program, which incentivizes local jurisdictions to revitalize areas into self-sustaining communities with a diverse range of housing, employment and commercial options.
About a decade later, an update was adopted that focused on rewriting zoning regulations.
Dunwoody Community Development Director Richard McLeod said he had passed Dunwoody Village in the ’70s, growing up in Roswell while his mother worked at Perimeter Mall, and noted it hadn’t changed.
“I thought it was a little weird, and I started talking to some of the councilmembers and some of the folks who live around here, and they said, ‘It’s so tired. It needs a lift,’” McLeod said.
There had been criticism from the community that spanned from the number of banks in the Village to style limitations, he said.
Michael Starling, Dunwoody’s director of economic development, said aesthetics of Dunwoody Village were meant to capture the historic feel of Williamsburg, Virgnia, but that they became a hindrance
Business owner David Abes leans on a community-created wall inside his restaurant Morty’s Meat & Supply, which features a “shrine” to Dunwoody native Ryan Seacrest. Abes, who also owns the nearby Bar{n} and Message in a Bottle, is a member of the Dunwoody Village Merchants Association, a group of business owners working to further define the area as the city’s downtown.
to new development. Based on a survey conducted by an architectural firm, Starling said most people were more concerned with function anyway, giving city staff ammunition to incorporate design changes into the zoning code.
The master plan also resulted in more city investment into key Dunwoody Village corridors, like the $2.33 million streetscape project on Dunwoody Village Parkway, completed in 2014. Another project, Village Crossroads, is underway which intends to make Chamblee Dunwoody Road more walkable and bike-friendly with additional traffic calming measures.
Merchants group
Then, last year, the Dunwoody Village
Merchants Association was formed, composed of about a dozen business owners, pulled together by city staff.
“I think the majority of Dunwoodians believe that the Village is sort of their local downtown, and we agree with that and think it needs to look and feel and operate more like a downtown,” Starling said. “One of the things that downtown does is have events, concerts, sidewalk sales, that kind of thing, so that’s what that group is focused on.”
David Abes, an association member and owner of a number of restaurants in Dunwoody Village, said the group is planning for quarterly events. His overall project to do business in Dunwoody, as founder of Dash Hospitality Group, is six
Situated between business owner David Abes’ Bar{n}, Morty’s Meat & Supply and Message in a Bottle, is the Dunwoody Village courtyard, a community gathering spot. Abes noted his work to transform the space into something more vibrant and welcoming.
years in the making.
Abes first opened Bar{n} around two and half years ago, a craft beer and whiskey bar with a menu that offers charcuterie and small plates.
Then came Morty’s Meat & Supply, named after Abes’ grandfather and featuring a community-created “Wall of Fame” with pictures, a 1976 map of Dunwoody Village and a “shrine” to Dunwoody native Ryan Seacrest, which includes portraits painted by Dunwoody High School students.
“[Seacrest] just posted about Dunwoody yesterday on social media,” Abes said. “So, the mayor actually tagged
See VILLAGE, Page 11
PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIAContinued from Page 10
him and said, ‘You need to go to Morty’s and see your shrine.”
There’s also an old program from a Dunwoody July 4 parade — this year, Abes was elected as the parade’s Grand Marshal.
“I said, ‘Am I old enough for this?’” he said. “Because I have gray hair, but … No, it was a really nice honor.”
Across the way is Message in a Bottle, a seafood restaurant and Abes’ latest addition. In another interactive feature, Abes invites families to submit their beach pictures for a TV display as well as write messages to be placed in stacked bottles near the entrance.
All his restaurants, including his food truck Yoffi which serves Mediterranean food, are situated around a courtyard. In a tour, he highlighted the work he had done to transform the space into a more inviting community hangout spot with investment from Regency Centers, the property owner.
“There were literally two metal benches in the whole place and one lamppost,” Abes said. “So, we cleaned it all up, added furniture, the stage, the big screen.”
The courtyard also features colorful murals for picture-taking moments, one with his trademarked “Funwoody” and another with “Good Vibes.”
Abes said he and other merchants saw missed opportunities, looking over to the “cool” events that Alpharetta and Roswell were hosting.
Two years ago, he created Green Eggs and Kegs which will be the group’s first event, held in the courtyard on April 20. It will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, hitting close to home as his son was diagnosed as a toddler.
“I always want to do stuff for charity,” Abes said. “I think that’s very important. Whatever we do — it’s like you got to do it community-focused.”
All the Village
The association also plans to host an all-day, back-to-school event in August called “Funwoody Field Day,” which will include school field day classics like relay races and a scavenger hunt as well as a sidewalk sale in the second half of the day.
Lauren Sok, association member and owner of Functionize Health & Physical Therapy, said Funwoody Field Day will be spaced out throughout all the Village.
“What we realize is when most people say the ‘Dunwoody Village,’ they think it’s the side where Fresh Market is,” Sok said. “All of the businesses in the greater Chamblee Dunwoody/Mount Vernon area are part of the Village.”
Light Up Dunwoody, a pre-existing city event, will be the group’s fourth-quarter focus, but Sok said they plan to make it
Lauren
Health & Physical Therapy
of the Dunwoody Village Merchants Association, and
president of engagement at the Perimeter Chamber, stand together during a recent Chamber meeting. The Chamber took over the association in December.
Vernon
more magical and again, ensuring it is held throughout the village, with hot chocolate stands, carolers and maybe a petting zoo.
“The main goal is to make sure people understand that the Village is so much more than one section, and it’s a destination,” Sok said, with a hope that the city’s marketing dollars will go toward the area.
The Dunwoody Village Merchants Association is under the auspices of the Perimeter Chamber now, allowing them greater autonomy and an organized platform.
As a longstanding Dunwoody resident, Perimeter Chamber Vice President of Engagement Paula Shiver said she has always felt like there were things that can be done to the Village to bring cohesiveness to the space and that Abes has had that same vision.
“The whole thing sort of clicked and fell into place was his motivation and his enthusiasm and people really seeing how just a little bit of effort can bring a whole community together,” Shiver said.
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia and Danish officials joined Kamstrup leadership March 21 to commemorate the opening of the company’s new North American headquarters in Forsyth County.
The noon ribbon cutting at the new 150,000-square-foot facility on Forsyth Commerce Way featured remarks from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Danish Ambassador to the U.S. Jesper Møller Sørensen, Kamstrup CEO Søren Kvorning, Kamstrup Vice President and Country Manager Bruce Bharat and Chris Smith, honorary consul of Denmark.
Kamstrup is a water metering solutions and services company based in Denmark that aims to reduce waste and support production of clean water and energy. Its U.S. operations began in 2013 and focus on supporting water utilities. The company’s previous headquarters opened in Roswell in 2018.
Kemp said the new headquarters and manufacturing facility would not be possible without support from Forsyth County government and Georgia’s longstanding relationship with Denmark. The first Danish consulate in the state
was established in 1802 in the Port of Savannah.
“I’m so excited about Kamstrup and certainly want to thank the ambassador for being with us today and for his support of this great company,” Kemp said. “It’s an honor to have him in the State of Georgia. We had a great visit about this, so many things that our state and his country are doing together, and we’re excited about the future of that.”
Ambassador Møller Sørensen thanked
Kemp for the welcoming business climate in the state, and he recognized Kamstrup’s growth in Georgia from a company with four employees to more than 130.
“As we now look ahead, let us continue to build on this foundation of cooperation and shared goals,” Møller Sørensen said. “And let us work together toward a future
that is not only more sustainable, but also full of opportunities for our next generation.”
Local officials including Forsyth County Commission Chairman Alfred John and commissioners Laura Semanson and Cindy Jones Mills also attended the ceremony.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Rotary Club has scheduled its On the Green and Brooke Street Park Under the Stars concert series this summer.
The club will host an On the Green concert every first and third Friday from May to September. Opening acts will run from 7 to 8 p.m., and main bands will take the stage from 8 to 10 p.m.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at givebutter.com/ConcertOTG to support the series.
The Rotary Club is hosting Brooke Street Park Under the Stars between May 25 and Sept. 28. In case of rain, the performances will be relocated to Union Hill Park.
Proceeds will benefit All for One, Next Stage Customs, Meals by Grace, North Fulton Senior Services, Lionheart, Habitat for Humanity, Vision Warriors, Revved Up for Kids, IRIS Transitional Living, Ubora Tanzania and Ed Isakson Alpharetta Family YMCA.
The May 25 concert will benefit Wacky World, and Aug. 24 will be an Alpha Cares Charity Concert.
Tables and tickets can be purchased at givebutter.com/StarsatBrookeStreet.
— Shelby Israel
On the Green concert dates
• May 3: Justin at 8:30 p.m.
• May 17: Hot Flash at 8:30 p.m. June 7: School of Rock at 7 p.m., Radio Star at 8:30 p.m.
• June 21: Talent contest at 7 p.m., Acoustic Soul at 8:30 p.m.
• July 5: Stranger Company at 7 p.m., Decades Band at 8:30 p.m.
• July 19: DeadCetera at 7 p.m., Double Take at 8:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: Sawgrass Blues Band at 7 p.m., Sunset Strip at 8:30 p.m.
• Aug. 16: School of Rock at 7 p.m., Jessie Albright Band at 8:30 p.m.
• Sept. 6: The Honey Do’s at 7 p.m., RTW at 8:30 p.m.
• Sept. 20: talent contest at 7 p.m., Mike Ross Band at 8:30 p.m.
Brooke Street Park Under the Stars dates
• May 25: Georgia Satellites and Tommy Tutone
• June 22: Atlanta Rhythm Section
• Aug. 24: Swinging Medallions and the TAMS
Sept. 28: Yacht Rock Schooner
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• Acute Illnesses such as: sore throat, flu, cough, common cold, etc.
Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
Arriving at a correct diagnosis is not a simple matter. With the exception of the occasional conspiracy theorist (Is Elvis alive?), most people gravitate to the least elaborate explanation to a question – the explanation that makes the fewest assumptions to fit available data.
Indeed, this approach is known as “Occam’s razor” and is the most famous rule of diagnosis taught in medical school. Within medicine, this rule is sometimes abbreviated to mean that a doctor should seek one single unifying diagnosis that explains all of a patient’s complaints instead of trying to explain five complaints with five diseases. For example, if a patient has a tick bite, rash, fever, headache and confusion, perhaps a single tick-borne illness explains all the symptoms and the patient can be treated accordingly rather than delaying treatment and introducing risk to perform spinal taps, MRIs or other investigations to search for second, third or fourth diseases.
Occam’s razor might sound like obvious and sage advice. Unfortunately, it proves wrong often enough that a Dr. John Hickam, former departmental head of medicine at Indiana University, felt the need to remind students that Occam’s Razor is sometimes wrong. He coined Hickam’s Dictum, which states “patients can have as many diseases as they [darn] well please.” (Dr. Hickam used the other D word, but we may have children in the audience.)
How often is Occam’s razor wrong?
In my physical diagnosis class in medical school, a professor taught us that there was a study of inpatients admitted at a university hospital in which the researchers looked at how often at least two diagnoses were necessary to account for the patient’s chief complaint. The result? One third of the time at least two diseases were to blame. Hickam’s dictum counterbalances Occam’s razor and reminds us of not becoming nearsighted or prematurely triumphant upon reaching a plausible single diagnosis. Sometimes two or more diseases are to blame. Sometimes, the patient in respiratory distress has the flu and covid.
A third rule, Crabtree’s Bludgeon might be my favorite. Who doesn’t love a good bludgeon? (You can tell I am a father of boys). Crabtree’s bludgeon says that a motivated individual will figure out an intelligible method of explaining away a set of contradictions, no matter how contradictory they are and how wrong they might be. This rule hints at the extent to which we humans often doggedly stick to a certain conviction or belief despite all the evidence to the contrary. New evidence says we might be wrong? No problem. We simply reason out elaborate new rules and exceptions that fit
our previous beliefs and account for the new evidence. Never underestimate the ability of people who are wrong to invent reasons not to admit it and to figure out how the new evidence actually further proves that they are right. (Think Flat Earthers)
Sometimes, a doctor can cling to an erroneous diagnosis far too long when what the patient needs is a complete reassessment. This is one of the most compelling arguments for patients receiving second opinions.
One of the most interesting cases that I have encountered in my medical career occurred when I spent a month studying at Stanford University. A patient presented to Stanford’s dermatology clinic with a tumor near her optic nerve and with certain birthmarks of her skin. She was sent by the ophthalmology department to the dermatology department for an opinion on whether the eye tumor was related to the birthmarks.
The stakes were high. If the eye tumor was deemed connected to the skin findings, then the ophthalmologists planned on watchful waiting and observation of the tumor. If not, then they planned surgery which could result in blindness in that eye. I spent hours researching the embryology of her findings and discovered reasons to believe that the patient’s tumor was very likely an atypical presentation of a disease called segmental neurofibromatosis. I concluded that the tumor and the birthmarks were very likely part of a single syndrome.
When I presented the case at Stanford’s dermatology grand rounds, Occam, Hickam, and Crabtree all showed up. Great debate ensued. The first professor to speak argued for the optic nerve tumor being unrelated to the birthmarks. Other professors found my evidence for a syndrome convincing. When the first professor found herself outnumbered, she doubled down and bludgeoned her way into arguing that the data was not only weak but actually backed her argument.
How did things turn out? The patient chose observation instead of surgery. My visit to Stanford ended, but I corresponded with a professor there, and the last update that I received was that the patient was doing well with no further growth of the tumor on subsequent MRIs.
I hope that you enjoyed this peek into diagnosis within medicine. For readers with children or grandchildren, I suggest that the lessons to be learned from Occam, Hickam and Crabtree are worth sharing and have relevance far beyond the field of medicine.
If you or a loved one has a possible skin cancer or any medical or cosmetic skincare need, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor, Kathryn Filipek, PA-C and our wonderful staff are honored to take care of you and your family.
Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.
He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.
Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 18 years experience as a Dermatology PA. We are excited to welcome her, as she brings with her experience in general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology.
Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.
Brought to you by - Jay Looft, Senior Source Medicare
Over the past 10 years, the Medicare Advantage Program has experienced exponential growth. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than half of Medicare beneficiaries are now receiving their Medicare benefits through Medicare Advantage, otherwise known as the privatesector version of Medicare.
With this level of popularity for the program, you can imagine there are a lot of insurance companies that want a “piece of that pie”.
If you go to Medicare.gov and input a North Atlanta zip code, you will find there are 10 different Medicare Advantage companies. That’s a lot!
Some of these companies you’ll recognize, some you will not. Some are large carriers, some are small. Because there are so many companies involved in the program now, the plans are becoming better for the consumers!
Here are some of the features we are seeing drastic improvement in: Dental Allowance, Over-The-Counter Allowance, Grocery Allowance, Gym Networks, Hearing Aid Allowance, Elderly Assistance,
and lower Medical Maximum-Out-OfPocket limits.
These features are getting stronger and stronger each year, but it requires analysis of these plans or a check-in with your Medicare insurance broker each year. We would be happy to be that insurance broker for you if you don’t already have one.
You may have been with one of the large insurance carriers for years, and there is nothing wrong with that, but could that carrier have a better plan? Or if you are willing to try out one of the smaller carriers, it could offer more benefits if you’re willing to forgo name recognition.
Keeping an open mind about all the insurance carriers in the marketplace could put you in a better plan for your needs. It’s never too early to start thinking about your next Medicare insurance plan.
We are not currently in an active enrollment period, but depending on your situation, there might be a plan you can switch to right now. Check with us about your Medicare insurance options or ask for a plan review of your current plan today! Call us at (770) 913-6464 or through our website at www. SeniorSourceMedicare. com.
Brought to you by - Alice D, Hoag, EdD, LPC, Summit Counseling Center
A few years ago, I intercepted one of my sons as he was descending the staircase and heading outside. He explained, with a guilty expression on his face, that he was going to go outside to smoke a cigarette. Ever since I was my grandmother’s companion during her final months of life as she went through chemo and radiation treatments for lung cancer after her 50 years of smoking cigarettes, I’ve not been a fan of cigarette smoking. And he knew this. I stopped him and challenged, “Either do it with gusto or don’t do it at all.” I went on to encourage him, “Fully enjoy inhaling and blowing smoke rings or whatever you do. Get the most out of whatever it is that you do. Choose wisely, then do it with no guilt. If you cannot enjoy it fully, then don’t do it at all.”
In the decade since that first statement just slipped out of my mouth on its own, I’ve reflected on that sentiment. I believe it is a way of living life to its fullest. “Either do it with gusto or don’t do it at all.”
Guilt and anxiety. Neither is a good option to live with as a way of life, yet I interact with so many people who do live in a constant state of guilt and/ or anxiety! It’s their default mode; it just happens without even thinking. Every action and thought carries with it
either a sense of guilt or anxiety.
“Being my best self” is a way of life that I attempt to live by every moment of every day. While I may not hit the “best self” goal all the time, I can certainly choose the “better self” more often than not. It’s an element of being a good steward of what I’ve been given. And we’re all called to good stewardship of everything we’ve been given: time, talent, energy, body, mind, actions, motives, finances, relationships, and on and on.
It is not an easy task to choose our better self (or best self). It requires that we surrender the easy path, the selfish or self-protective default mode in each of us. However, as we do, we become more intentional. When we choose our actions intentionally to be consistent with our best self, we end up being less guilt-driven. And when we act intentionally, there is less anxiety. There’s actually less emotional involvement at all. Acting intentionally requires that we observe the options from several angles, then choose the best version of ourselves to move forward in a direction. This results in freedom, contentment, and joy. That’s living with Gusto!
If you’d like guidance and encouragement on choosing joy and living with gusto as your better self, The Summit would love to come alongside and walk with you on your journey.
The Roswell Historical Society will host its inaugural Night at the Museum fundraiser April 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. to showcase its new rotating exhibit “Presidential Connections to Roswell.” The ticketed event will also feature hors d’oeuvres, drinks and live music.
ROSWELL, Ga. — In its inaugural Night at the Museum fundraiser April 6, the Roswell Historical Society will showcase its new “Presidential Connections to Roswell” exhibit.
The gallery highlights the ties of former U.S. presidents to the city, including Teddy Roosevelt, Jimmy Carter and Woodrow Wilson.
Held at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, Night at the Museum will also feature hors d’oeuvres, drinks and live music. It will last from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and the exhibit’s ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
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• Heavenly Foot Massage, 11680 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 200
• Amethyst Enterprises, 770 Old Roswell Road, Suite H500
In addition, 15 businesses were inspected for compliance with city ordinance requirements with six citations being issued as a result for found violations.
“Since taking office in 2022, the City Council and I made it our top priority to eradicate illicit activities in massage parlors and put an end to human trafficking in the City of Roswell,” Mayor Wilson said. “The safety and protection of our residents is a solemn duty. To me, there is no more important compact for a city with its residents than the compact of public safety and protecting
Attire for Night at the Museum is casual cocktail. Tickets can be purchased at roswellhistoricalsociety. org. For Roswell Historical Society members, tickets are $65, and for nonmembers, tickets are $75.
Like other rotating exhibits produced by the Historical Society in the Roswell History Museum, “Presidential Connections to Roswell” will be on display for a year.
The museum is on the second floor of the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. It is free and open to the public Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
those who cannot defend themselves.”
Over the coming days and weeks, the Roswell Police Department will continue to conduct regular compliance checks.
“We are committed to ensuring that the overwhelming majority of legitimate businesses in the City of Roswell are able to operate unencumbered,” said Police Chief James Conroy. “We are equally committed, however, to taking intentional enforcement action against those businesses willfully operating illegally or engaging in illicit activity.”
All massage establishments in Roswell are required to possess a current and valid massage establishment license, alongside a business license. Businesses currently operating without meeting those requirements are urged to immediately cease operations and apply for the necessary licenses at the Roswell Police Department, located on Hill Street during regular business hours.
15 On the safe side, at sea
16 Dog
19 Itinerary
20 Knitted fabric
21 Comparable
23 Keyboard key
24 March follower
25 Code name 27 Winged it 30 Feminine member
34 Open carriage
37 Morning moisture
39 Spit 40 Egypt and Syria, once (Abbr.)
41 Grill
43 Before, in verse
44 Ballroom dance
46 Sprinted
47 Feudal worker
48 Humdrum
50 Astronaut’s insignia
52 Cherish
54 Stretch of land
58 ___ amis
61 Soon, to a bard
62 Cry to a racehorse?
63 Kind of nerve
65 Pond
67 Parasite
68 Collar type
69 Just
70 Indian lodge
71 Family rooms
72 Hardy heroine Down
1 Cannelloni and orzo, e.g.
2 Seize
3 Rhino relative
4 Elaborate
5 Throw off
6 Cockpit abbr.
7 Bailiwick
8 Era
9 Party after hitting the slopes
10 Also
11 Lummox
12 Court records
13 Actor, singer Wooley
18 Bun
22 Avatar; Hare ___
26 Summer (Fr.)
28 Magazine issue
29 Network
31 Amazes
32 Flowerless plant
33 At liberty
34 Pump type
35 Locks
36 Florence’s river
38 Combat
See solution Page 23
HAVANA NIGHT at Club 201 – Friday, Mar. 29
7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Salsa/Bachata Lessons
8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m., Social Dancing
$12 per person for Lessons & Social Dance Cash or Credit Card Payment at the Door
Solution on next page
King’s Ridge Baseball at Veterans Field JV vs Cambridge, 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 28 www.krtigers.com/sport/baseball/boys/
Bourbon & Cigar Night at the Post –Friday, May 3, 7pm-10pm
Flight of 3 Bourbons, a Cigar & Hors d’oeuvres
Tickets: $50 per person at Clubroom/Bar or Online at www.legion201.org
Dances & Dance Instruction
For details and schedules visit
www.club201dance.com/calendar
41 Migraine
42 Deep-six
45 Can. neighbor
47 Within the sound of a voice
49 Gloated
51 Military award
53 Related maternally
55 Make amends
56 Prison parts
57 Low cards
58 Shed
59 Fencing sword
60 Dance bit
62 Sloughs
64 Driving hazard
66 Freight weight
Recently, I felt like I was the luckiest guy in the world. It had nothing to do with St. Patrick’s Day, March Madness, or the fact that the South’s beauty was preparing to, once again, offer a pleasing respite to dreary Old Man Winter.
I now know what true despair is: Being prone in a hospital bed from January 5th until late February is a phenomenon, I recommend to no one, no matter how proficient someone might be in nastiness. It seems like ages ago when I stared out that hospital window, wishing for snow. But I really didn’t care about the climate. I just wanted to go home.
you know it: Mastering the intricacies of the car, a four-wheeled computer, was something to work up to.
A weekend trip to Frazier’s HarleyDavidson lifted my spirits. David, Lil Billy, and Big Carl seemed genuinely happy to see me. And I was elated to see them, figuring the initial trip of 2024 was a time to pump the brakes on good-natured ribbing. They’re my friends and I cannot wait to mount the Black Beauty, my threewheeled Harley and walk through the door.
A phone call from high school best friend Klint Schahrer drove home the point that he truly cares. We laughed until it was time to go, then we laughed some more.
7506 Wilderness Parkway
Big Canoe, GA 30143
Facts About Me
Breed: Terrier Mix
Color: Black and white (Short haired)
Age: 5 months old
Weight: (Current) 15 lbs
Fully Grown: Medium Size (45lbs)
Sex: Male
My Info
Healthy/ All Shots current
Good with dogs & children
Chipped/ Neutered
Good leash walking & car rides
May need some potty training
bigcanoeanimalrescue.org
706-268-1346
Meet Porter
This handsome boy would bring any family joy and happiness! Porter has a gentle way about him with a sweet disposition. He would be great for a family of children of any age. He gets along with other dogs and never met a human he didn’t like. He is learning his commands and is smart. Don’t miss out on him! Bring treats .
All BCAR dogs are placed as indoor family pets. No electric fences, please. Visit pets every Saturday 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (706-268-1346) or visit our website for adoption information at www.bigcanoeanimalrescue.org.
Ditto for being in that rehab facility. Written on the board in my room were the words “Non weight bearing.” I guess I was a slug, constantly telling myself that this too will pass. But coming home, aside from being around loved ones, didn’t provide the instant return to normal that I had envisioned. I didn’t want to sleep in my bed, reasoning “all in due time.” My recliner, followed by a comfy couch would do me just fine.
Until it didn’t. Mustering up as much gumption as warranted, I went upstairs and experienced the sleep of the just. Lordy, that sleep was so good that I never wanted it to end.
But it did. So, I went out and started my motorcycle, dreaming of rides with friends. I was allowed by my podiatrist/ surgeon, to put weight on my toeless foot. I ditched the wheelchair and used a walker. I had this monstrous shoe on my foot, but loving a challenge, I went out and started my car. Youngest son Greg had done a fabulous job driving his dad to appointments and outings. But it was time to tackle being truly free. I drove around the neighborhood. Wouldn’t
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an arena for hockey and concerts designed by architect Frank Gehry; facilities for esports and performing arts; a professional-level outdoor stadium; hotels; and retail, dining and residential components.
Addressing skepticism toward bringing a hockey team back to Metro Atlanta after the relocation of the Atlanta Flames and the Thrashers, Senior Project Executive Ferrara said times have changed, and there are NHL
Folks called to ask Vicki if there was a funeral. I was a poor communicator of the trials and tribulations of losing toes. Then they seemed grateful at being able to talk with me. A surprise visit from my brother Matt helped me cope with even though I was now “half-footed,” the love of a brother made me feel I’d thrive in a pair of Wolverine riding boots. Larry Suarez, the Grand Knight from our Knights of Columbus, barbecued a brisket that he and wife Theresa delivered. Neighbors David and Zayra brown brought soup that was so good, I got nary a spoonful. Cynthia Meisner brought a gift card. Father Brian Higgins brought wisdom and Holy Communion.
There have been some lessons learned. When someone says: “Let’s go,” I’ll beat them to the car.
Dorothy was right: There truly is “No Place Like Home.”
Slowly, I’m getting back. Smiling at knowing my family, and many others, love me and want me back.
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.
fans spread evenly across the country rather than just in traditional hockey markets.
In his presentation, Ferrara cited failures of the past as poor fan experience, ownership issues, team performance, financial circumstances, locating the arena too far from its fan base and the eventual relocation of the two teams.
“There were problems with the first two,” he said. “I don’t believe that this is the so called, ‘Oh, they’ve already had two strikes. Will this be the third?’ This is the first time at doing it right. This is the first time of doing this in the right location.”
If there’s one thing that’s universally true about fly fishing, it’s that gearing up can be complicated.
But what if gearing up could be made simpler?
It can be, and one way to do just that is to sing the song of tenkara.
That’s what I’m doing on a fine afternoon a week or so ago. I’m getting ready to enjoy a day of tenkara fishing up in the mountains. We’re in the midst of one of those brief warm spells that often characterize the approach of spring, and that’s all it takes to get me into a trouty frame of mine. Fishing is in my future!
But where – and how?
The “where” is easy. For the last few weeks I’ve had a hankering to fish the upper reaches of the Chattahoochee River. To get there, I’ll drive from Helen, turning off Alt. 75 at the little white church and then following Poplar Stump Road (paved) until it morphs into gravel and follows the river up into the Chattahoochee WMA. I’ll keep driving until things just look right, and then I’ll stop and grab the rod and see what happens next.
And the “how?”
Lately, in the interest of that “simplicity” thing, it seems as if I’ve been picking up a tenkara rod as much as anything.
Tenkara is a centuries-old Japanese approach to fishing with flies. It uses a fixed line about the same length of the rod, plus about 4 feet of 5X (or so) tippet. And that is all. The line attaches directly to the tip of the rod. There is no reel, and as a result life is suddenly
Steve Hudson’s new book, TENKARA 101, is a perfect introduction to the art of tenkara-style fishing. It’s available from local outfitters or direct from the author at FlyBooks.net.
simpler for sure.
I’ve talked about tenkara before here. Does it sound interesting to you?
On this day, I pick up a Tiny Ten 2 rod from Tiny Tenkara, a rod company based in Colorado. This is a delightful little rod for use on small mountain waters like the one I have in mind. It has a fully extended length of about 8 feet, making it an ideal rod for small, tight mountain streams. I’m using it with a level fluorocarbon monofilament line, to which I’ve added the obligatory 4 ft. of tippet. On the end of the tippet I’ve tied a small reverse-hackle fly (a traditional sabaka kebari) to the end of my leader.
And with that, I’m ready to go.
After a while, I come to a section of creek that’s to my liking. I pull off the road and park. Then I put on the waders (it’s kind of chilly outside) and pick up the rod and turn toward the water.
Five minutes later I stand beside the stream. The flow here is small – just a few yards across – and there’s not a lot of room for casting. But the little 8-foot Tiny Ten 2, which weighs only 2 ounces and collapses to a length of 13 inches, is right at home in the tight quarters of this beautiful mountain stream. In some areas, there’s room to make an actual cast, and the Tiny Ten 2 proves precise and accurate in its ability to put the fly where I want it to go.
In other places, streamside vegetation closes in and regular casting is impossible. That’s when I turn to the “bow-and-arrow” cast, a technique
PROVIDED
which allows me to almost slingshot the fly toward chosen targets. It’s a great technique for fishing small mountain streams, and the little rod does a great job there too.
How are the trout reacting to all of this? Well, several wild rainbows vote in favor of the small soft-hackled sakasa kebari (which is, at the risk of oversimplifying things, Japanese for “a fly with a reversed hackle”).
I fish the fly subsurface through several promising runs, watching the junction of the line and the tippet for subtle signs of a strike. Sure enough, there are several. I get lucky and bring a few of them to the net, where I admire them and quickly release them back into the water. Sometimes I’ll even see a fish move to the fly, but when that happens I often strike too soon and miss the fish completely.
After a while I switch to a surface fly. I am concerned that it might be too cold for such imitations of adult aquatic
insects, but it’s warmed a bit and I’ve seen some bugs (maybe stoneflies) flying over the water. I rummage in my fly box and find something that looks about right for imitating them, then cut off the subsurface fly and tie on the surface imitation instead. Fishing is slower with the dry fly, but even so I manage to coax two trout (a brown and a rainbow) come to the surface and strike.
Though there’s always the possibility of a minor trophy in stretch of water, I encounter no big fish on this day. Most of the ones I tangle with are in the 4- to 6-inch range, a size which fits the water (and the Tiny Ten 2 rod) perfectly. But I do manage to lose one that seems a little bit larger. Was it eight inches long? Maybe ten?
Of course, if a fish gets away, it can be as big as I want it to be.
You understand that, don’t you?
Of course you do.
So I figure that the one I lost went about five pounds!
Continued from Page 5
The subdivision, they said, would generate 1,148 daily vehicle trips, with 119 in the morning peak hours and 149 in the evening. As a grocery store, the property would see 237 morning trips and 600 in the evening, they said.
The homes would range from 1,800 to 2,600 square feet with a price range of $600,000 to $700,000.
Still, the plans failed to win unanimous support among
councilmembers, who were still concerned about the high density.
Councilman John Hipes said he was reluctant to approve an amendment to the comprehensive land use plan without a compelling reason, and he noted that the immediately surrounding properties have commercial, industrial or office uses.
Mayor Gilvin and Councilman Dan Merkel said they ultimately supported the subdivision because the site has failed to attract a better use.
Gilvin said one of his top priorities is helping people afford a home rather than having to rent a house or an
apartment, and a single-family home in Alpharetta starting at $600,000 is the cheapest he has seen in a long time.
“You can’t complain about density and want more affordable housing,” Gilvin said.
While he may not want to live there himself, Merkel said he thinks it is a great use.
“I just ask Council to think real hard,” he said. “Is this, ‘I don’t like it because I don’t want to live there. That’s too dense for me,’ or possibly is it a chance for some more people to actually have the opportunity to live in the City of Alpharetta, where the
The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, April 11, 2024 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.
Items forwarded by the Planning 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. Z-24-06/PH-24-06/V-24-06 55 Canton
Consideration of a rezoning, parking in-lieu fees, and variances to allow for the construction of a mixed-use building with 36 ‘For-Sale’ condominium units and 7,303 square feet of restaurant space on 1.02 acres in the Downtown Overlay. A rezoning is requested from C-2 (General Commercial) to DT-C (Downtown Core) and parking in-lieu fees are requested for approximately four (4) parking spaces. Variances are requested to Unified Development Code (UDC) Appendix A: Alpharetta Downtown Code Subsection 3.5.5 to increase the maximum building footprint and to UDC Subsection 2.5.5(J) to allow tandem parking spaces to count toward minimum parking requirements. The property is located at 32, 38 & 44 Old Canton Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1269, 2 nd District, 2 nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
b. CLUP-24-02/Z-24-07/CU-24-04/V-24-07 TPG/Park Walke
Consideration of a comprehensive land use plan amendment, rezoning, conditional use and variances to allow for the construction of 34 ‘For-Sale’ townhomes on 3.41 acres in the Downtown. A comprehensive land use plan amendment is requested from ‘Commercial’ to ‘Mixed Use Live-Work’ and a rezoning is requested from C-2 (General Commercial) to DT-LW (Downtown Live-Work). A conditional use is requested to increase density above 8 dwelling units per acre and variances are requested to Unified Development Code (UDC) Appendix A Subsection 2.2.3 to eliminate interconnected streets, block requirements, stub-out streets and allow dead end streets, to UDC Appendix A Subsections 2.4.6 and 2.7.2 to allow parking between the building and the street, and to Appendix A Subsection 3.7.3 to increase maximum lot coverage from 70% to 80%. The property is located at 2220, 2240, 2260, 2270, and 2300 Old Milton Parkway and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 748, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
c. Z-24-08/V-24-08 306 Thompson Street
Consideration of a rezoning and variances to allow for the construction of 2 ‘For-Sale’ single-family detached homes on 1.148 acres in the Downtown Overlay. A rezoning is requested from R-12 (Dwelling, ‘For-Sale’, Residential) to DT-LW (Downtown Live-Work). Variances are requested to Unified Development Code (UDC) Appendix A Subsection 2.3.5 and UDC Subsection 3.5.7 to eliminate the requirement to install a multi-use trail; UDC Appendix A Subsection 2.4.6 to allow parking between the building and the street and to eliminate the requirement for a street-facing garage to be recessed at least 20’ behind the front building façade; and Appendix A Subsection 2.8.7 to allow a contemporary architectural style for the proposed homes. The property is located at 306 Thompson Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 802, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
d. PH-24-07 Unified Development Code (UDC) Text Amendments – Hotels
Consideration of text amendments to Articles I and II of the Unified Development Code (UDC) to amend the definition and miscellaneous regulations pertaining to ‘Extended Stay Hotel’, add a definition for ‘Hotel, Hybrid’, add ‘Hotel, Hybrid’ use in certain zoning districts, and add ‘Hotel, Hybrid’ miscellaneous regulations.
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.
supply and demand is such that right now the supply is not there, and there are people knocking to come in?”
Merkel offered a motion to approve the project, but the vote was ultimately deferred to allow developers time to pursue school bus access, decrease the overall density and add a playground for children.
The City Council will consider the updated plans April 29.
Also at the meeting, councilmembers recognized Joy Ross for her service on the Historic Preservation Commission. Seven properties were designated as historic during Ross’ time as a commissioner.
Randy Knighton City of Roswell Kurt Wilson City Administrator Notice of Public Hearing Mayor
The following item will be heard at a Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Roswell City Hall, Council Chambers, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia.
a. RZ 20240598 - 710 Grimes Bridge Road
The applicant, Cottage School, is requesting to rezone from RS-18 (SingleFamily Suburban) to CIV (Civic and Institutional); land lot 498.
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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
PH-24-AB-05
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: 867 0907 6198
Dial In: +1 646 558 8656 US
April 8, 2024 at 2:00 P.M.
PURPOSE
Change in Ownership
Eating Establishment
Consumption on Premises
Distilled Spirits, Beer, Wine & Sunday Sales
APPLICANT
RHE 01, LLC
d/b/a The Metropolitan Club 5895 Windward Parkway, Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005
Owner: RHE 01, LLC
Registered Agent: Sunil Reddy
• Cremation Services
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.
Gary “Wayne” Ellison, 80, of Alpharetta, GA passed away peacefully at home on March 16, 2024 with his loving wife Betty and family at his side.
Wayne was a humble man and would never brag, but we will do it for him:
The following items 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. E-24-02 King’s Ridge Christian School Tree Recompense Exception
Consideration of an exception to waive tree recompense in conjunction with the construction of a baseball field. The property is located at 0, 13600, 13630, 13650, and 13660 Cogburn Road and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 896 & 905, 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.
Wayne was born in Fayetteville, WV and raised in the Kaymoor Coal Mine camp which is now part of the New River Gorge National Park. His father Nile was a coal miner and mother Eva, a nurse. He was the youngest of five. He always spoke fondly of his childhood growing up in West Virginia and was proud that his dad ordered electrical parts and figured out how to build a TV from scratch for all the locals in the coal camp to watch. He grew up around trains and wanted to become a locomotive engineer, but when he was older he changed his goal to become a civil engineer. He was gifted in science and math and caught the attention of Senator Robert Byrd of West Virginia who appointed him to the Naval Academy but he chose WVU instead. When money got tight in college, he took a job with C&P Telephone (AT&T subsidiary) as a field engineer. He loved the job and quickly climbed the ranks within AT&T. He entered the Marine Corps in 1966 and was given a $2,500 severance and a guaranteed job when he returned. He said the way AT&T treated him during this time made him fiercely loyal to the company and he retired after 35 years.
Lyndon Johnson at Camp Pendleton. He was broke upon leaving the military with barely enough money to get back to West Virginia from California. He said it was then that he determined “if he were ever to be broke again, it would not be due to lack of effort.”
He was a master carpenter and “in his spare time” framed two of his homes himself as well as his daughter’s home. He was always busy with projects such as building furniture or fixing his motorcycle but also believed in fun, especially watching WVU football, the Atlanta Braves or playing golf a few times a week. He was a lover of all music and especially fond of the Boléro composition. When you visited him, you would likely find him outside in his pool which he especially loved playing in with grandchildren.
He was a combat engineer in the Marines and a musician who played the bugle and trumpet in the military band. He always recalled the feelings of sadness but pride as he played TAPS for those that had fallen. He even had the honor of playing for President
Wayne taught his children the value of family, hard work, curiosity, and learning. He also believed that nothing was out of reach “if you set your mind to it”. He believed the best things in life are free such as love, companionship, learning, building, and enjoying nature. He was known for his patience and could say so much by saying very little and he always liked to add dry humor. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Betty, of 42 years, his children Clif Ellison of Shallotte, NC, daughters Kathi Cook (Mike Kennedy) of Alpharetta, GA and Michele Orlandini (Juan) of Roswell, GA and his sister Jean Muns of Pampa, TX as well as numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. He also had ten grandchildren and nothing brightened his day like a visit from them. A celebration of his life will be held with family and friends gathering later this year in West Virginia.
Carreno Landscaping
Monthly lawn maintenance, irrigation, sod installation, plants, mulch-fertilization, tree removal, pinestraw installation. 404-333-5107 or text address for work.
MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIR
Merits Vision Sport. Less than a year old. Purchased 3/2023. $2800/obo. Alpharetta; must pick up. 352-391-4276
Delivery/installation available. Firewood available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612
12x50 Mobile Home for rent. South Forsyth near McFarland Road. $800 per month on private lot. 770-639-6518.
Home for rent in Windermere Golf Community. $2,900 a month.
2955 Links View Way, Cumming, GA 30041 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms.
Dolan Bursaw 770-891-8860
GREENLAWN ROSWELL: 2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $5000 each! 770-475-7307
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SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS: (mltple opngs) (Job Code SD-23) - Master’s deg in Info Systms/Technlgy, C.Sci, Engg/IT Mngmnt, Sci, any Engg or relatd flds reqd. Travl &/or relocn to unantcptd locns in US reqd. Job loc: Cumming, GA & unantcptd locns in US. Apply - Attn: HR (Job Code SD-23), Kube IT Inc. 763 Peachtree Pkwy, #4, Cumming, GA 30041. EOE
SYSTEMS ENGINEERS: (mltple opngs) - Master’s deg in C.Sci, Info Sys/Technlgy, Engg/IT Mngmnt, Sci, any Engg or relatd flds reqd. Travl &/or relocn to unantcptd locns in US reqd. Job loc: Cumming, GA & unantcptd locs in US. Apply - Attn: HR, Kube IT Inc. 763 Peachtree Pkwy, #4, Cumming, GA 30041. EOE
DEVOPS ENGINEERS: (mltple opngs) (Job Code DVOP-23) - Bach’s deg in C.Sci, Info Systms/Technlgy, Engg/IT Mngmnt, Sci, any Engg or reltd flds. Travl &/or reloc to unantcptd locns in US reqd. Wrk loc: Cumming, GA & unantcptd locns in US. Apply - Attn: HR (Job Code DVOP-23), Kube IT Inc. 763 Peachtree Pkwy, #4, Cumming, GA 30041. EOE
Project Management Specialists – Multiple Openings – (Alpharetta, GA) Intuites LLC needs professionals: Plan, manage using JSON, Microservices, Agile scrum, Oracle DB, HTML5, CSS3, Angular2. Req. – Bachelor’s plus 2 yrs Exp. Comp. salary, Relocation to unanticipated client site. No National/International travel. Please mail resume to Ref: Director, 1740 Grassland Parkway, Ste 405, Alpharetta, Georgia, 30004
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
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