Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - September 7, 2023

Alpharetta is seeking a new event management firm to handle the Taste of Alpharetta. The annual food festival drew roughly 45,000 residents and guests in its most recent iteration.

City seeks new vendor to oversee food festival

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta announced Aug. 24 it is seeking a new management vendor to handle the upcoming Taste of Alpharetta, the beloved annual food festival that draws crowds to the city.

City staff said the contract will include the event’s financial planning; logistical coordination; strategic management; marketing; sponsorship cultivation; sales; fulfillment, artist and vendor liaison; communication; supervision; and post-event evaluation.

The partnership is a five-year contract beginning with the May 9, 2024, festival.

Alpharetta Communications Coordinator Deanna McKay said the city’s contract with previous vendor JacobsEye ended, which created the need for a new management partner.

The upcoming iteration of Taste of Alpharetta will mark its 32nd year

in the city. City public safety staff reported the 2023 festival drew around 45,000 guests with unprecedented ticket sales.

Those interested can bid online at bit.ly/44qS2UO. Physical submissions are not accepted.

— Shelby Israel

Questions from applicants due at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 12

• City answers to questions due at noon Sept. 15

• Proposals due at 2 p.m. Sept. 21

• Evaluations from city complete at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 29

Alpharetta cancels election due to lack of challengers

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta formally canceled its 2023 municipal elections Aug. 31 after seeing no challengers during its qualifying period.

City staff estimated the cancellation will save some $379,408 to be used on other projects and initiatives for

the benefit of Alpharetta residents and taxpayers.

Four candidates qualified Aug. 21 to fill the mayoral seat and City Council posts 4, 5 and 6. Mayor Jim Gilvin, Post 4 City Councilman John Hipes and Mayor Pro Tem Dan Merkel, who holds

Post 6, had no challengers.

Post 5 Councilman Jason Binder announced in March he would not be seeking reelection. That month, Fergal Brady filed his declaration of intent to accept campaign contributions for the post.

Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard said under state law, each candidate who is unopposed is considered to have won the election, resulting in the cancellation.

— Shelby Israel

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Arrest made in Roswell neighborhood shooting

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ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell police have arrested a Roswell man in connection with a shooting that occurred in a local neighborhood last week.

Police said Derrick Washington, 23, has been charged with aggravated assault for shooting and injuring a 22-year-old victim outside a home on Barrington Drive in Roswell Sept. 1. Officers were called to the

Sexual assault reported near Avalon development

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police reports said a woman was sexually assaulted during an incident near the Avalon Whole Foods Aug. 22. Reports said the alleged victim was walking to the Whole Foods from the Even Hotel on Old Milton Parkway when a man approached her and asked for directions to Wills Park. When the woman started to walk away, she allegedly felt the man strike her backside with a set of keys and squeeze her upper thigh area.

The victim said she was left with bruising on her upper thigh and buttock from where she was struck. Officers were given a description of the suspect, but he was not located in the surrounding area.

Multiple cars reported stolen in Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police reports said officers are investigating a string of vehicle thefts that were reported across the Alpharetta area over the last few weeks.

Two vehicles, a 2022 Dodge Charger and a 2022 Jeep Grand

neighborhood at about 9 p.m. after the city’s 911 center received multiple calls reporting gunshots in the area and located one victim at the scene who was shot in the arm.

Police believe the victim was driven to the scene by an unidentified third-party and was shot after he approached Washington on the driveway of a home. The incident allegedly started as a verbal dispute between the parties, reports said.

After the victim was shot, the

Cherokee, were reported stolen near the Avalon development in Alpharetta on Aug. 24, while a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette was stolen by a suspect using the Turo vehicle rental service Aug. 15.

During their investigation, officers learned the Dodge Charger’s owner actually saw the theft occur in the covered parking lot of a building on Kimball Place and was able to identify two suspects.

Officers were also able to identify the suspect responsible for stealing the Chevrolet Corvette through rental records as a 33-year-old Doraville woman and have filed warrants for her arrest.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was later recovered abandoned in a parking space at an office building on Northwinds Parkway.

Authorities have tracked the other stolen vehicles using FLOCK Traffic Cameras, but they have not been located yet. Reports did not say whether any suspects were arrested.

Man charged for assault of Alpharetta woman

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A suspect who allegedly attacked a woman last

unidentified third party returned fire several times, but no one was struck by these shots.

Washington was later located and taken into custody without incident and was transported to the Fulton County Jail. Police said at this point in their investigation, Washington is the only individual facing criminal charges from this incident.

Washington is held in custody at the Fulton County Jail under a $25,000 bond.

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.

week, sending her to the hospital, has been arrested in Alpharetta.

Police reports said officers charged a 24-year-old Alpharetta man aggravated assault and false imprisonment Aug. 25, for allegedly attacking and choking an 18-yearold female victim at an apartment complex near Westside Parkway.

Officers were called to the apartment complex at about midnight on Aug. 25 and found an 18-year-old woman with multiple lacerations and bruises to her neck and face, allegedly caused by a man striking her several times in the face and choking her.

The woman told police the suspect fled the scene after the attack but would likely return later. After the woman was taken to a local hospital, police located the suspect and took him into custody.

Reports said the suspect was transported to the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta for his alleged crimes.

Georgia Power, state regulators agree to division of Vogtle nuclear plant costs

By STANLEY DUNLOP Georgia Recorder

GEORGIA — A settlement agreement among Georgia Power, clean energy advocates, and state regulators’ staff could result in several billion dollars of costs being passed along to company shareholders for the beleaguered Plant Vogtle nuclear expansion project.

The Public Interest Advocacy Staff of Georgia Public Service Commission and Georgia Power reached an agreement on Wednesday that, if approved by the agency’s five-member board, would likely result in Georgia Power customers not being saddled with $2.6 billion in overrun capital costs for the Plant Vogtle expansion. Still, the agreement could lead to the average utility customer paying $14 per month for the two-phase expansion that is expected to be completed in early 2024.

The agreement would resolve a dispute over the estimated $10.2 billion in capital expenses Georgia Power is expects to spend by the time the two nuclear reactors are supposed to be fully operational.

The settlement calls for capping the maximum amount paid by Georgia Power customers at $7.6 billion, just north of the $7.3 billion threshold

agreed to in 2018 by state regulators and Georgia Power. Under the 2018 order, the company could request from the PSC the right to recover above-cap expenses from ratepayer if commissioners deemed the charges to be reasonable.

The deal signed on Wednesday said that future expenses above $7.6 billion will be covered by Georgia Power and its parent company, Southern Co. and their shareholders.

The average Georgia Power household has been paying $5 more per month since Unit 3 went online this summer. This week’s settlement would likely tack on another $9 to utility bills once Plant Vogtle’s Unit 4 is generating power.

The agreement would need to be approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission before its terms become official. At a soon-to-be scheduled hearing, PSC staff, Georgia Power, and other interested parties will get a chance to present expert witnesses, while the public will be able to voice opinions on the nuclear expansion located southeast of Augusta.

The landmark agreement was reached after years of tense debate over the merits of building two nuclear reactors as costs and timelines

have nearly tripled from the original price tag of $12 billion and targeted completion of the two reactors in 2016 and 2017.

The commission’s Chairman Jason Shaw praised the staff for doggedly monitoring the project over the years.

“With the semiannual Vogtle Construction Monitoring reports and the countless hours of analysis on this project, I assume there has been more evidence presented in this docket than in any docket in PSC history,” Shaw said. “The culmination of construction on this historic project marks the expansion of clean energy production for another 60 to 80 years here in Georgia.”

Georgia Power and other Vogtle promoters trumpet the benefits of nuclear power as a provider of a reliable and zero-carbon energy supply for generations to come. A number of utility analysts and clean energy and consumer advocates have long argued that the project’s benefits will not outweigh the ballooning costs and that customers will be stuck with an unreasonable cost in the long haul.

The proposed deal comes at a time when Georgia Power’s 2.7 million customers have begun footing a $10 billion tab for fuel cost and electric

base rate adjustments.

Over the last decade, Georgia Power customers have spent an average of $100 a year on Vogtle Units 3 and 4 before either reactor generated the first kilowatt.

The Southern Environmental Law Center, on behalf of Georgia Interfaith Power and Light and Partnership for Southern Equity, agreed to a settlement with Georgia Power that they say will provide much-needed bill relief from Vogtle’s construction costs and for seniors and lower-income Georgians.

The agreement was also signed by consumer watchdog Georgia Watch and trade group Georgia Association of Manufacturers.

When Vogtle’s construction was certified in 2012, the utility company’s officials estimated the project would cost customers an extra $9.60 a month.

“While project delays and overruns do mean Georgians will be paying for this project for decades, Georgia Power agreed to significantly lower the construction costs they were expected to pass on to customers,” said SELC attorney Bob Sherrier.

As part of the settlement, Georgia

See VOGTLE, Page 7

Johns Creek considering street racing ordinance

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — An issue detected since early 2022 in Johns Creek, street racing will soon be targeted with a new city ordinance.

Street racing isn’t limited to city streets and roadways, according to Police

Chief Mark Mitchell. In his presentation to the Johns Creek City Council Aug. 22, Mitchell said these events can stem from private parking lot gatherings, where participants look at one another’s custom cars, play loud music and rev their engines.

In an interview with Appen Media, Mitchell also described “intersection

takeovers” where racers would block off an intersection, primarily on McGinnis Ferry Road, to perform donuts and burnouts while other drivers are traveling, posing a danger to those involved, passing drivers but also to spectators who might record these events.

Earlier this summer, he said hours for the Traffic Safety Unit were changed

to address street racing activity on city roadways and business parking lots. To circumnavigate “clandestine” organizing on social media, he also said Johns Creek Police have been networking with other local agencies and the state to gather intel.

Ceremony remembers 13 dead from Kabul airport attack

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — To commemorate the second anniversary of the attack at an airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, the Johns Creek Veterans Association hosted a Kabul 13 remembrance ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Walk at Newtown Park Aug. 26.

Thirteen U.S. Service members and more than 163 U.S. Afghan allies and civilians died as a result of the bombing on Abbey Gate at the Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA).

volunteer team behind the evacuation of over 15,000 Afghan Allies and their families into the United Arab Emirates.

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“The U.S. service men and women I saw and spoke with at Abbey Gate, HKIA were the epitome of what is best in America during crisis – stalwart, honorable, compassionate, and brave service to those in need,” Stinson said, according to a press release. “Their sense of duty, of pride, of honor was evident in each of them.”

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The Fr. Joseph T. O’Callahan Knights of Columbus Assembly 3441 led the ceremony, which saw more than 150 guests. The event also featured a “Toast to the Fallen” presented by Guest of Honor Daniel “Santa6” Stinson, who was on the ground in Kabul just before the bombing. Stinson was the leader of the Veteran

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At a Kabul 13 remembrance ceremony hosted by the Johns Creek Veterans Association, Guest speaker Daniel “Santa6” Stinson shares his experience helping allies and other American citizens escape the Taliban takeover.

See RACING, Page 7

Milton replaces consultant after tumultuous 3 months

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — In a unanimous vote and without discussion, the Milton City Council fired its elections consultant Vernetta Nuriddin.

Lavania White, who had been hired as one of three poll managers for the city’s November municipal election, will take her place as part of a $12,500 contract that ends Dec. 31.

In an email, City Manager Steve Krokoff, who also serves as the city’s elections superintendent, said terminating Nuriddin’s contract was “for convenience” and was rooted in a “commitment to ensuring the best possible outcome for the city.”

“Our focus has shifted from highlevel planning to the crucial phase of polling preparation, where we are fortunate to draw upon a wealth of experience within our new team,” Krokoff said.

Krokoff hired Nuriddin in late May, following a number of personal requests from City Councilman Rick Mohrig that he interview her. In an interview with Appen Media, Fulton County

Commissioner Bridget Thorne also confirmed her support for Nuriddin as Milton’s election consultant.

While Nuriddin holds electionrelated certifications and served on the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections as its vice chair, she did not meet the city’s minimum qualifications which includes experience as an elections superintendent.

Nuriddin came before the council Monday evening and said she had found out about her termination only hours before the meeting. In her comments, Nuriddin expressed disappointment in the agenda item and described a tenuous relationship with Krokoff.

“My biggest regret is that me and Steve actually couldn’t get to a place where we could work together,” she said.

Nuriddin also tossed in a few criticisms, such as the City Council’s May 1 resolution to implement two polling locations, rather than three. She says she reported City Attorney Ken Jarrard Aug. 15 to the Georgia State Bar because he allegedly drew up the resolution “improperly.”

The council has since agreed to

ELECTIONS COVERAGE

Appen Media has covered the push for North Fulton cities to run their own elections seince breaking the story in Aug. 2021. Follow along at appenmedia.com/municipal_ elections

add a third polling location at the Milton Public Safety Complex on Ga. 9. An official vote on formalizing the third polling site is scheduled for Sept. 6, following legal advertisement requirements. The other two locations are at Milton City Hall and the Community Center at Milton Park and Preserve.

Nuriddin also said Deputy City Manager Stacey Inglis and City Clerk Tammy Lowit haven’t taken their oaths for their official elections roles. She also advocated for an election attorney in the city.

“I know that this process is bigger than me, the elections team and even this council,” Nuriddin said. “We can provide paper-ballot, hand-count elections, and it can be done, and it can be replicated for people to follow long after you guys are gone, long after I’m gone.”

Interpreting state code

There was no council discussion about Nuriddin’s termination, but records show she lacked competence for the job, outlined by Krokoff in an Aug. 14 email obtained by Appen Media in an Open Records request.

Nuriddin advised Milton’s elections team consisting of Krokoff, Inglis and Lowit, that they must provide the city with ballots that meet standards set by the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act for Milton residents working or stationed overseas for its municipal election with “100 percent” certainty. However, Jesse Harris with the Secretary of State’s Office, who Nuriddin copied on her email, said these ballots were only prepared when elections include federal candidates on the ballot.

Citing state code, Nuriddin also said the city is not required to hold three weeks of advanced voting, including Saturdays, for its municipal election. But it is statutorily required, according to SB 202, a state elections bill passed in 2021, and it will be offered Oct. 21

and Oct. 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for Milton residents.

Nuriddin also cited SB 202 to say the City Council did not have the authority to take away a third polling location for its November election. The decision was the elections superintendent’s to make, she said.

As a response to her claims, Krokoff quoted state code, “Polling places to be selected by superintendent of county or governing authority of municipality [sic]” in the Aug. 14 email.

Krokoff’s April 10 recommendation for a third polling location eventually came to fruition in late July with the City Council decision to place one at the Milton Public Safety Complex on Ga. 9 in Council District 3 — an area found to have the highest number of registered Democratic voters and voters of color.

Deleting city communications

In early July, an Open Records request was submitted for text messages and emails between Nuriddin and several city officials, including Krokoff, Inglis and Lowit as well as for councilmembers Mohrig and Paul Moore.

An associate attorney with Jarrard & Davis, the Milton city attorney’s office, advised Nuriddin to check her text messages and personal email from her first day on the job June 5.

“As a result of my service on the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections and having produced hundreds of pages of personal communication, I routinely delete all text messages regarding elections policy, governance or oversight,” Nuriddin wrote in response. “I do not have any text communications to submit.”

Throughout her emails to Krokoff and other city officials during her tenure as Milton elections consultant, Nuriddin advocated for an open and transparent city elections process.

In an Aug. 2 reply to Nuriddin, Milton City Attorney Ken Jarrard said Nuriddin’s pleas for transparency were “discordant” based on two instances of her admitting to text message retention.

The first occasion was in response to the Open Records Request in early July. Jarrard also quoted Nuriddin, who said on July 20, “I routinely delete my texts to/from my personal phone regarding Milton’s elections.”

Jarrard took issue with the statement.

“While not all text messages are

Consultant:

Continued from Page 6

subject to the Open Record Act, some or even most are,” Jarrard wrote in an email to Nuriddin. “This is especially so if the subject matter of those text messages pertains to policy, governance or oversight of elections. While I have previously raised this issue with you, to date, I have not received confirmation from you that such systemic deletions have stopped.”

In with the new

The city’s advanced voting begins in less than two months, but Krokoff said hiring a new election consultant isn’t throwing a wrench into the elections timetable. He said the project “remains on schedule.”

Lavania White, the new consultant, is said to have more than a decade of managing polling locations for Fulton

Racing:

Continued from Page 5

With the new focus, Mitchell said officers have been able to thwart the activity as well as seize illicit narcotics associated with street racing groups. But he said a new ordinance could help police further deter these events.

“We need some teeth,” Mitchell said. Other area cities, like Sandy Springs, Roswell and Alpharetta, already have ordinances against street racing and reckless driving exhibitions.

With no ordinance in place, Mitchell said Johns Creek Police have cited participants with reckless driving and deferred to state law on the matter. But

Vogtle:

Continued from Page 4

Power agreed to about a 50% expansion of energy efficiency programs and also offered up to 96,000 additional low-income seniors to participate in a program that would reduce their monthly bills by an average of $33.50.

“This settlement is a significant step in advancing our pursuit for energy equity and democratizing energy for many Georgians,” said Partnership for Southern Equity Chief Equity Officer Nathaniel Smith. “The reality is many Georgia families continue to choose between keeping their homes cool or putting food on the table.”

Vogtle experienced a major delay in its early stages when its contractor Westinghouse Electric

County.

“Ms. White’s reputation as a go-to manager for problem-solving in North Fulton speaks volumes about her dedication and competence,” Krokoff said in an interview. “We believe that her role is pivotal to the success of our upcoming election.”

Krokoff said he was introduced to White a few months ago, during interactions with various experienced poll workers. But Appen Media could not confirm at press time whether Krokoff vetted White’s experience, a formal interview took place as part of the city’s standard hiring process for contracted work, or if White holds elections certifications.

“Her depth of knowledge, approachable demeanor, and strong advocacy for administering outstanding elections resonated with us immediately,” Krokoff said. “Alongside other dedicated poll workers, she has been an integral part of our efforts thus far.”

officers would now be able to better connect the “nexus” of organized street racing activities.

Mitchell also said it would enhance the court’s ability to assign fines and fees to organizers, participants and spectators. If an offender becomes a habitual violator, Mitchell said a felony would result and the judge could bond the case from city court to state court. At that point, he said the vehicle could be seized.

“The biggest thing that we do on the front end of it is, we just want compliance,” Mitchell said. “We just want people to obviously not street race.”

The ordinance will move to the City Council’s consent agenda at a later regular meeting.

filed for bankruptcy in March 2017. Technical and regulatory obstacles, periodic worker shortages during the pandemic, and a long legal dispute with contractors have led to other setbacks.

Georgia Power, which owns 46% of Vogtle, is regulated by the PSC. The nuclear project is also co-owned by Oglethorpe Power Corp., Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia, and Dalton Electric, which sued Georgia Power over Vogtle’s cost overruns.

Construction and financing costs for Vogtle surpassed $34 billion earlier this year, as Georgia Power and Southern Co. pushed to have one reactor completed by summer and the other one in early 2024.

This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.

Hall, DNP, FNP-C Johns Creek Only Samantha Lewis, FNP-C Johns

Yianna Manolakis, FNP-C Milton Only Heather Menees, FNP-C Johns Creek Only

Embrace tasty traditions with the Zukerino Pastry Shop

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — If you’re ever craving sugar while heading west on I-285 through Dunwoody, it might be easy to just go for a gas station candy bar or fast-food milkshake, but that would be a big mistake because the Zukerino Pastry Shop is right around the corner.

Opened by Theodore Kazazakis and his family in 2012, the Zukerino Pastry Shop is a one-stop shop for all things tasty and delicious, from Baklava and cheesecake to Italian butter cookies and classic American turnovers.

A native of Athens, Greece, Kazazakis learned pastry making at his family’s bakery and served as the culinary pastry chef at the Landmark Diner for seven years before setting out on his own. He now runs the pastry shop with his son, Alex Kazazakis.

“He decided that he wanted to branch out and wanted to open up his own place. So that’s exactly what he did,” Alex said.

Nearly 12 years after opening, Alex said they have transformed the Zukerino Pastry Shop from a small bakery based out of an old Waffle House, into a thriving business with hundreds of customers in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee, including more than 100 restaurants.

He said about 70 percent of their business comes from restaurants they supply in the Atlanta area, but they also do a good amount of

business from everyday people who need pastry treats.

“I always have my regular customers,” Alex said. “I always try to entice them with something new.”

The Zukerino Pastry Shop is based on Greek pastry traditions like Baklava, a dessert made of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and

soaked with honey, or Kourambiedes, butter cookies dusted with powdered sugar, and Melomakarona, honey cookies shaped almost like a pecan. But they also excel with treats from around the world like tiramisu, New York-style cheesecake, and the Kazazakis’ favorite, Italian Butter Cookies.

“When it comes to cookies, these are my favorite. All of these right here,” he said, pointing to a case of thick cream-colored cookies covered in sprinkles, M&M’s or dipped in chocolate.

Often, they might be the only

See PASTRY, Page 9

They’ll call us and go, ‘Hey, what time do you guys close?’ and we’ll wait for them because that’s extreme loyalty.

ALEX KAZAZAKIS, co-owner, Zukerino Pastry Shop

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Zukerino Pastry Shop, located off Cotillion Drive in Dunwoody, is a one-stop-shop for traditional Greek, Italian and other ethnic deserts. The pastry shop will celebrate its 12th anniversary this December.

Pastry:

Continued from Page 8

pastry shop or bakery within several hundred miles to make a specific type of traditional dessert or treat, which draws in customers from sometimes states away.

“They’ll call us and go, ‘Hey, what time do you guys close?’ and we’ll wait for them because that’s extreme loyalty,” Alex said.

Crystal Smith, who has worked at Zukerino for the last seven years, said the business often feels like a second family. New customers, even just people passing by on the street, are quick to come on board and love their shop.

“You establish relationships with customers when you work the front,” she said. “A lot of people who don’t know about us see us in the line at Dunkin’ Donuts and then drop in here where I give them samples.”

The Zukerino Pastry Shop is located at 2230 Cotillion Drive in Dunwoody.

Learn more about their offerings and hours by visiting their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Zukerino/, or calling 770-220-1733.

At the Zukerino Pastry Shop in Dunwoody you can find simple well-known deserts like cheesecake, tiramisu and American turnovers, but your mouth will thank you when you try the honey-soaked Baklava rolls and a rainbow of cookies, cakes and other unusual pastries.

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Engel & Völkers Atlanta continues to grow

to you by - Engel & Völkers Atlanta

Brought

Engel & Völkers Atlanta announced the continuation of its growth story, absorbing two existing Engel & Volkers markets in Buckhead and North Fulton, and opening a new shop location in Sandy Springs. This news comes on the heels of its recent expansion to North Georgia with its Blue Ridge location.

“At Engel & Völkers Atlanta, we have mastered the leverage of our global platform and brand that is synonymous with providing white glove real estate to discerning clientele, with localized expertise and a global network,” said Christa Huffstickler, Founder and CEO of Engel & Völkers Atlanta. “With an incredible on-the-ground team, we have continued to grow our original shop in South Buckhead and take advantage of new opportunities beyond our initial territory, to create a more consistent presence for such a prestigious and well-recognized brand in the Atlanta marketspace.”

The Sandy Springs shop will be led by top-producing advisors Matt LaMarsh, Christin Coffin and Kristen Skebe. Sandy Springs has become a hot residential real estate market in recent years due to its tranquil suburban setting, top schools and convenient access to Atlanta, making it an ideal location of service for the Engel & Völkers brand.

“Our client base is increasingly gravitating toward Sandy Springs, and it makes sense for us to be there,” Huffstickler said. “With Matt, Christin and Kristen joining Engel & Völkers Atlanta, we are well-positioned to be a market leader.”

With over two decades of experience in Atlanta real estate, Sam Morgan, Director of Sales for Engel & Völkers Atlanta, will assume the leadership role of Managing Broker at the North Fulton office. Having managed the sales of some of the city’s largest

and most prominent new developments, amounting to $1 billion to be exact, he possesses extensive expertise navigating the ins and outs of the cyclical Atlanta real estate market, making him a knowledgeable leader for the North Fulton shop.

Since joining Engel & Völkers in 2017, Huffstickler has created the top performing Engel & Völkers real estate shop in Atlanta. Notably, 74% of all of the company’s real estate advisors and brokers have increased their busi-

ness production, with more than 27 record-breaking sales in the last year alone. Engel & Völkers Atlanta has also represented some of the most premier new development projects in the area. This can be attributed to the brand’s longstanding global recognition, collaborative network and sophisticated offerings alongside the pioneer mentality of the brokerage’s astute leadership.

“It’s with great pride that Christa leads the growth of Engel & Völkers into the future throughout Atlanta,”

said Anthony Hitt, president and CEO of Engel & Völkers Americas. “She’s focused on building up the incredible team she’s created and is a beacon of service, mentorship and marketing within the Greater Atlanta new development and residential real estate market.”

The North Fulton and Sandy Springs shops will officially open their doors before the start of September, and more information can be found at www.evatlanta.com.

Making outdoor improvements pay off when selling your home

Brought to you by

- Allison Kloster, Associate Broker, Home Real Estate

As the embrace of Autumn envelops us, it is a great time to think about which outdoor improvements to your yard should pay you back the most when you go to sell your home. According to NAR (National Association of Realtors) there are 5 projects that have proven to be the best return of investment dollars, also known as ROI. When your Realtor first comes to your property to discuss marketing your home, they should evaluate the neighborhood, the street, and yes, even your driveway. The essence of arrival is critical to helping any potential buyer

see and feel that this home is special. As a seller, you want to have the buyer set your home apart from others as soon as possible when viewing your home. Having a regularly maintained yard that is nicely landscaped and groomed is a strong start. Your landscaping is the first picture that online sites will use to show the world your property.

The following percentages are what Realtors are being given from NAR as tools to help guide you on where best to spend your money when getting your home ready to sell. As a seller, it is imperative that you present your home in the best possible light (even in a seller’s market).

Routine lawn care service is the highest ROI for a homeowner at 217% of value recovered when you sell your home. Surely, a green and weed-free lawn is a huge draw to the buyer’s

eye. It most definitely shows well in professional photography and videos. Landscape maintenance like adding mulch, pruning your shrubs and planting perennials or annuals comes in at 104% ROI of value recovered when you sell your home.

Outdoor kitchens are very much a growing trend. In our market, we see them frequently. They do vary in complexity and features. We see outdoor kitchens with various grills, refrigerators, and even Kegerators. According to NAR, if you have an inset grill, stainless steel drawers, ice chest sink and concrete countertops with veneered masonry stone, you can expect 100% ROI value recovered when you sell your home.

Overall landscape upgrades like Installing a front walkway of possibly natural flagstone; adding a few stone planters, planting flowering shrubs and

installing mature trees would also yield you 100% ROI value when you sell your home.

Installing an outdoor patio is a great investment as well. Not only will you enjoy some time outside around a firepit or just sitting and reading a book, but an outdoor patio has a 95% ROI value when you sell your home.

As you can see, spending money outside is a wise investment and will make sure that your home garners the attention it deserves when it comes time to sell it and move on to your next adventure.

Investing in your home is one of the hardest and most important decisions you will make for your family. You don’t have to do it alone! Call or email Allison at 404-784-5287 or email allison@homegeorgia.com and get a response within 24 hours.

KLOSTER

Five trends to transform your space with paint

Brought to you by – Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

1. The Trendsetting Kitchen. Transform ordinary cabinets into standout art pieces by pairing complementary hues to achieve the perfect balance or refresh the walls for an overall update. Popular kitchen colors for this year include earthy tones and ever-perennial neutrals like white, cream and gray.

Nothing compares to what’s next.

Scan to view this month’s collection of featured properties exclusively represented by our firm.

Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad

Looking for a way to update the look and feel of a room without breaking the bank? Consider a fresh paint job—there are multiple reasons it ranks among the first recommendations of professional stagers:

Instead of undertaking expensive renovations or purchasing entirely new furniture, painting presents an excellent way to achieve a dramatic transformation with a relatively small investment. For those concerned about resale, opting for neutral, timeless color palettes walks the line between personalization and marketability. Compared to other renovation options, painting is a highimpact upgrade with universal appeal. It’s often a DIY assignment, making it accessible for those who can’t afford a professional. Unlike structural alterations, paint transformations are relatively reversible; you can experiment without fear because it doesn’t take much to pivot if preferences evolve or mistakes happen. And finally, for homeowners looking to sell, a well-executed paint makeover can significantly boost curb appeal and overall value.

While the list below represents a compilation of our favorite painting design trends, a quick Pinterest or Google search reveals plenty of ideas and information that can be adapted to any situation.

2. The Reimagined Fireplace. Turn your fireplace into a breathtaking centerpiece by painting the surround and the mantel (or both), or tastefully update the brick and stone using sealant or whitewashing.

3. The Drama of Texture. Move beyond flat walls with finishes that create captivating dimensions while concealing defects in areas that won’t allow for re-plastering or new drywall.

4. The Statement Wall. Accent walls infuse drama into any room, and your options range from simple (choosing a shade or two deeper than the rest of the walls) or complex (a mural).

5. The Accent Piece. For versatility and portability, try reimagining a sideboard, end table or cupboard using a distressed painting technique.

As always, a quick consult with a professional ensures access to expert color and design advice and a practiced, precise finish. If you need assistance staging 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

The Death Of The Jetted Tub. RIP

Brought to you by - Remodeling Expo Center

What should we do about that old, jetted tub? We haven’t used it in 10 years. How about we just get rid of it and expand the shower? “These are questions we answer every day”, say John Hogan, president of Alpharetta’s Remodeling Expo Center, “there is undoubtedly a trend away from jetted tubs, especially large ones. John continues, “we remove 3-5 of them each week and the homeowners are always overjoyed with reclaiming the large space, as well as getting rid of something that is emblematic of the 80’s and 90’s.

Not only are the jetted tubs being removed but some tubs in the secondary bathrooms are also being removed. Parents know all too well that when their kids reach middle school ages, the nightly baths are long gone, and a walkin shower is their preference. As long as another tub, near the kid’s bedrooms remains, there is no impact to the home value.

Why is this happening? We take many more showers than baths and America has finally concluded that the space allocated for the big, jetted

garden tub just doesn’t make sense. Perhaps more importantly, we’re all afraid of the brown water and particulates that will flow out of the jets when it’s turned on after not being used for so long. This fear of the unknow, dark in color, growing in the unseen piping of the tub, really makes people want to get rid of them!

Instead, homeowners are choosing to expand their showers into a large, spa like experience, with gorgeous niches, benches, rain-head showers, but not always eliminating the tub. Many times, the tub is replaced with a gorgeous freestanding soaking tub. There is also a clear trend to change the shower-tub area to be safer, with anticipation of aging in-place in the home. “In these cases, we are emphasizing safety, with grab bars, eliminating the shower threshold, and installing “easy to enter” bathtubs”, John continues, “all of the north Atlanta homes are 20-30 years old and we are seeing a large increase in our bathroom projects”. Remodeling Expo Center is a turn-key remodeling company with a 10,000 SF showroom, at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector, in Alpharetta (678) 459-2292.

Does

Workshop

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

• How do I protect my assets for my family and legacy?

• How do I remain in control?

Three common types of beneficiary

the beneficiary are much longer.

Estate planning plays a pivotal role in protecting your legacy and one of the most important parts is deciding who your beneficiaries are. This may seem simple - after all, isn’t it natural to give everything to your family? However, what you may not know is that there are different types of beneficiaries and it’s best to assign a beneficiary for every possible scenario. So, let’s learn about three common types of beneficiaries.

• The third type of beneficiary is the contingent beneficiary. A contingent beneficiary inherits only if the first beneficiary passes away. For instance, you may want everything to go to your spouse after your death – but what happens if your spouse dies before you? The money doesn’t automatically go to your children. That’s why it’s always best to name your children or relatives as contingent beneficiaries to make sure your assets aren’t stuck in limbo.

• How do Irrevocable Trusts work?

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

• How can my family avoid probate?

• The first beneficiary type is one you see often in estate planning - the revocable beneficiary. The revocable beneficiary can be an individual, an organization, or a group of people. These are the same beneficiaries you usually see associated with the “Payable on Death” on bank accounts. The inheritance of revocable beneficiaries can be revoked at any time by you.

• The second type of beneficiary is the irrevocable beneficiary. These are generally beneficiaries of certain insurances. These beneficiaries cannot be altered without their consent, due to the amount of assets involved, and the administrative processes for setting up

Of course, minor children should not be listed as a beneficiary because otherwise the funds have to be turned over to Probate court until the children reach the age of 18. If you have minor children and want to make sure they inherit, it’s better to create a trust and put the trust as a beneficiary to ensure the Probate court won’t interfere and try to control the assets for the children. Similarly, if you have disabled children, you should establish and put the trust as the beneficiary so the child can qualify or maintain government disability benefits.

To know what type of beneficiary you want to name for your assets, it’s always best to speak with a local estate planning attorney. The rules regarding minor children and spouses may differ depending on the county, so always seek legal advice to get the most updated information before you make such an important decision.

GEERDES

Is your home smart?

Brought to you by -

Tracey Craft, Realtor®, ASP®, The Craft Dolan Team at Ansley Realty

| Christie’s International

Smart homes are a growing trend across all residential price points, and with good reason. While not yet as important as a home’s décor, buyers want homes to have brains. Today’s homeowners are installing technologies that enhance convenience, security, energy efficiency and overall lifestyle. Even better, these devices and systems can be automated or connected, and they can be controlled either onsite or remotely via phones, tablets or voice commands. Convenience, security and energy efficiencies at your fingertips!

In the near future, we won’t see many homes without at least one smart home

feature. Some examples:

• Home-Assistant Systems: These are central platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. Home-assistant systems often use voice commands to control devices in the home, such as setting a timer while cooking, play a certain genre of music or answer a question.

• Home Security: Smart security systems include doorbells with cameras, motion sensors and surveillance cameras that can be monitored remotely. Smart security systems can send alerts to a homeowner’s phone or tablet to report suspicious activity.

• Energy Management: Smart homes optimize energy consumption by using smart thermostats to regulate temperature, smart lighting to adjust brightness based on occupancy, and even smart appliances that run during off-peak energy hours.

• Entertainment: Smart TVs, audio

systems and streaming devices are integrated into smart home systems. Users control media, adjust volume and even create entertainment zones throughout their homes.

• Automated Routines: Smart homes allow users to set up routines or scenarios. For example, a morning routine programmed into a smart system might turn on lights, adjust the thermostat and play your favorite news podcast when you wake every morning.

• Remote Monitoring and Control: All these features can be managed remotely from across town or across the globe. Think you left the thermostat on high or the oven on after you’ve left for a trip? Check the app and make the adjustment.

• Health and Wellness: Some smart homes can even incorporate health monitoring devices like fitness trackers, sleep trackers and even medical-alert systems to provide insights into and alerts related to residents’ well-being.

While smart homes offer many benefits, there are considerations regarding data privacy, cybersecurity and potential complexities in setup and maintenance. As technology continues to evolve, smart homes are becoming more sophisticated, leading to the integration of AI, machine learning and other advanced technologies for an even smarter living experience.

Do smart home technologies increase your home value? A fully automated home will absolutely impress. Such features are emphasized by listing agents as value-adds when selling a home. But as with any home-improvement investment, make the upgrade for yourself and enjoy the convenience, comfort, security and efficiency benefits. You might not get a dollar-to-dollar return upon a sale, but your smart home features will not be overlooked. Wondering what upgrades you should start with? Give us a call and let us connect you to some preferred providers.

CRAFT

Welcome home to worry-free independent retirement living!

Brought

to

you by – Vickery Rose Retirement Community

Imagine coming home to a warm, friendly community that’s luxurious, safe and comfortable, in a great location for fun local outings. Maintenance and housekeeping included, and every meal is madefresh by the culinary team. With all the work done, you have time for family, friends and the important things in life. That can be your life at Vickery Rose Retirement Community!

Designed for comfort, apartments come in a variety of floor plans. Each apartment features window coverings, climate-controlled thermostat, and ample closet space. Apartment kitchens are equipped with a full-sized appliances.

The best feature is the live-in community manager team. They live on site to help take care of everything so residents and families can enjoy their best life.

Vickery Rose Retirement Community is full of amenities, allowing residents to delight in the conveniences without the hassle of upkeep. All utilities and the

following are included:

• No buy-in/month-to-month rent

• Weekly housekeeping

• Freedom Dining program

• Concierge services

• Studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms

• Full designer apartment kitchens

• 150-seat theater

• Pets warmly welcomed

• 24/7 alert system

Residents can relax at the movies or live entertainment in the theater. At Vickery Rose Retirement Community, the Lifestyle Director

schedules activities designed to meet resident’s requests. And, ultimately, companionship with others is a powerful tool to help our residents appreciate retirement.

Call today, you’ll be glad you did! 470-242-7827

You deserve to own your business’ real estate, withco makes it happen

|

HERALD | JOHNS CREEK HERALD MILTON HERALD | DUNWOODY CRIER | SANDY SPRINGS CRIER

Delivering Readers Award-Winning Newspapers

Brought to you by - withco

As a small business owner, you know that owning your commercial real estate is a smart move. But finding the capital for a large down payment or navigating the complexities of the commercial real estate market mean that buying property is much easier said than done.

But ever-increasing rents and the insecurity of leasing are not a recipe for long-term stability. withco is here to change that. Our mission is to help you own your commercial real estate and take control of your future, with a team of experts in your corner every step of the way.

Why lease-to-own your commercial real estate with withco.

Really own it, with 0% down: Own your business’ real estate in just 5 years, with no upfront payment.

Build your Down Payment Credit: With each rent payment a portion

1st – Orig. Writing Sports

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Page Special

– Orig. Editorial Photo Feature

3rd – Food & Drink Single Ad Color

3rd – Grocery/Liquor Single Ad Color

3rd – Special Promotion/Section Stand-Alone Gloss

goes towards a Down Payment Credit that belongs to you. After 5 years, this equates to 10% of the purchase price.

Peace of mind, guaranteed: Know up front exactly what your property will cost when it comes the time to buy.

Take control and own your commercial real estate with withco. Visit with.co/ownership to learn more.

Take in the mountain views at Horizon at Laurel Canyon

Brought to you by- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties

Horizon at Laurel Canyon, located in Canton, offers striking views of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains foothills. This popular new home community is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a lifestyle. Designed by Patrick Malloy Communities with a keen focus on active adults, Horizon offers a range of amenities and stunning home designs that blend seamlessly with the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Horizon at Laurel Canyon boasts a wealth of amenities and while not age-restricted, the community was thoughtfully planned to meet the needs of buyers who appreciate the ease of single-level living. Each home

is designed to be spacious, airy, and filled with natural light. State-of-theart appliances and well-thought-out floor plans make daily living convenient and enjoyable. For those who desire a more elevated experience, some offer sky terraces, providing a unique vantage point to take in the stunning surroundings.

What truly sets Horizon at Laurel Canyon apart are the awe-inspiring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Several mountain view homesites are available for those who dream of building their custom home. There are also several new homes available ready for immediate move-in priced from the $700s - $1 million.

Homeowners will enjoy a 2-story clubhouse with a wrap-around veranda,

a refreshing swimming pool, charming gazebos, tennis courts, and a children’s playground. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in their passion at the nearby Laurel Canyon Golf and Country Club, just a short golf cart ride away.

Life at Horizon offers the best of both worlds. You can spend your days leisurely exploring the charming shops of downtown Canton or take a scenic drive north to discover the beauty of Ellijay, Jasper, or Blue Ridge. With easy access to I-575N, you are also conveniently located just minutes from downtown Canton, a mere 30 miles north of Atlanta, and a short 35-minute drive from the mountains.

Patrick Malloy Communities, founded in 1994 by Patrick Malloy, has over the past 27 years developed over

11,000 homesites and built more than 7,000 homes in Metro Atlanta with a total of $4 billion in sales. Patrick Malloy Communities has been on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top 20 Homebuilder list multiple times and has won numerous professionalism awards including several Community of the Year awards.

For more details on Horizon at Laurel Canyon, visit PMCommunities.com, call 770/254-5357 or visit the model home and sales center at 101 Summit View Circle, Canton, GA 30114. Patrick Malloy Communities is represented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division. BHHSgaNewHomes.com. An Equal Housing Opportunity.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Johns Creek Arts Center welcomes new instructor

to the community.

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Only light sources mark the gray figures in Catalina Gomez-Beuth’s oil paintings, indicative of how she says race is perceived in her birthplace of Medellin, Colombia, where everyone “blends.”

“I wanted to make a statement, ‘Okay, it’s not about this. It’s about the feelings of the people,’” said Gomez-Beuth, a new instructor at the Johns Creek Arts Center.

Throughout her work, segmented into conceptually grounded series, GomezBeuth gives viewers a glimpse into her experience as an immigrant. Many of her paintings include butterflies, which she said are symbolic of immigration.

Gomez-Beuth is working on a series titled “Beyond the Limits,” an expression of the right to dream, the American Dream. While she said race is more emphasized in the United States than in other parts of the world, Gomez-Beuth described the opportunity here.

She said women in the U.S. can reinvent themselves later in life. It wasn’t until she was 45 years old that GomezBeuth indulged herself with her passion in fine arts.

“I always talk about the beauty that America has given me,” she said.

Gomez-Beuth is also one of six Latino immigrant artists in an Atlanta collective called “Contrapunto,” whose mission is to show they came to the U.S. to give back

“People don’t think about us as artists, too, like Latin American people come here just to do a specific kind of job,” she said. “No, we have artists.”

Gomez-Beuth moved to the U.S. in 2000 and has been a Johns Creek resident for more than a decade. Before becoming an instructor this past spring, Gomez-Beuth had been featured in several exhibitions at the Arts Center.

Arts Center Executive Director Stephanie Donaldson said Tuesday mornings with Gomez- Beuth are a privilege.

“Catalina has a cunning ability to narrate and bring to life portraits by infusing grays and explosions of vibrant colors, drawing the viewer in the soul of the subject,” Donaldson said.

Gomez-Beuth began teaching an eight-week portrait painting class in August, where students are expected to complete a piece using a reference photograph.

But, she advises her students to add their own flair to the subject and guides them into building a story.

“I want them to see beyond what they have in the picture, something that comes from the feelings from the story, their own story,” Gomez-Beuth said.

To view Gomez-Beuth’s portfolio, visit catalinagomezbeuthart.com.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Catalina Gomez-Beuth, new instructor at the Johns Creek Arts Center, stands with one of her portraits “Ensoñacion.” Consistently drawn to the color yellow, Gomez-Beuth prefers oil for its workable, soft quality and the way it captures underlying sketches, which breathe life into a painting.

Catalina Gomez-Beuth offers insight into immigrant experience with work

The Johns Creek Arts Center will host the closing reception for its ninth annual juried multimedia art exhibition, “Summer Serendipity,” at 6 p.m. Sept. 16.

Performers reflect after closing of ‘Legally Blonde’

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Performers

Parker Ossmann and Bridget Upchurch reflected Aug. 25 on a successful “Legally Blonde the Musical” run at the Forsyth County Arts and Learning Center.

Ossmann, 25, and Upchurch, 18, said they had theater experience before the production. Ossmann, a carpenter for a theater in Atlanta, has been involved in community and professional productions for five years, and Upchurch has been involved in theater since childhood.

“I've been doing [theater] since I was about 5 years old,” Upchurch said. “I was in a ballet class, and then my teacher said I have too much energy for ballet, and I should try theater. So, I started doing that, that's when I lived in North Carolina. I moved down here. I saw a production of ‘Legally Blonde,’ and then I thought, ‘Wow, I want to do that.’”

Upchurch has lived in Forsyth County for 13 years and recently graduated from Forsyth Central High School. She said she previously performed a junior version of “Legally Blonde” in a competition, but never the full production.

“This is the first time I've been a title character, the first time I've ever bowed last,” Upchurch said. “But it's been really crazy, but in a wonderful way. I wouldn't trade this experience for the world.”

In the Forsyth County Arts and Learning, or FoCAL, Center production, Upchurch played the lead role of Elle Woods, and Ossmann was cast as Emmett. The pair secured their roles in May and rehearsed weekly throughout the summer until the production’s opening night Aug. 17.

Ossmann said performers also came to the center on Thursdays for individual work and acting classes. He said it was a holistic experience, but it helped them identify their strengths and grow more comfortable with their fellow actors onstage.

“I can't have a night where I don't do less than 100 percent because everybody's bringing so much energy into this,” Ossmann said. “But I think it's an honor because this is a role that I've come to really love. It's a character that I really relate to, and I like being able to share what I have to offer to a whole bunch of new people that are excited and are fans of the show.”

Despite their mutual years of experience, Ossmann and Upchurch said they still felt jitters performing, especially in a venue as large as the FoCAL Center. The 81,006-square-foot facility on Dahlonega Highway seats 1,813 in its main theater.

“This stage is huge,” Upchurch said. “When you're standing onstage, and

This is the first time I’ve been a title character, the first time I’ve ever bowed last. But it’s been really crazy, but in a wonderful way. I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.

BRIDGET

the lights are off, and all you see are disembodied heads of people … it's very scary.”

But momentary fright did not stop Upchurch from giving her all. She said she took a moment to breathe and threw herself into her character, which helped her ignore the audience.

“My entire brain is in show mode,” she said. “And I can't think of anything but the show.”

Similarly, Ossmann said the main stage at the center does not afford its performers the chance to be small, and it requires them to have just as much presence.

He said one of his worries was a high note at the end of one of his numbers, but immersing himself in the world of the play helped him overcome his nerves.

Upchurch said another challenge was her constant presence onstage as Elle Woods. The show, which ran about 2 hours and 15 minutes with an intermission, required several quick costume changes for Upchurch. She said she even bled once after getting stabbed by a safety pin.

“But being onstage the whole time is actually super fun because I can't go offstage and be like, ‘Oh, that sucked. Oh, I didn't do good,’ and I can't go offstage and overthink my entire performance because I have to stay in it all the time,” Upchurch said. “It’s a show that takes a lot out of you in a good way.”

After months of practice, nerves and dedication, Ossmann and Upchurch saw the results of their hard work. “Legally Blonde the Musical” ran Aug. 17-20 and 24-27 at the FoCAL Center. FoCAL Director Dawn Phipps said overall ticket sales numbered 3,412.

Ossmann emphasized the importance of theater as entertainment, an economic stimulant, and an opportunity for learning.

“There are messages in ‘Legally Blonde’ that are extremely important,” he said. “Ones that include diversity and inclusion. There are messages about acceptance of the LGBTQ community, and there are great messages about not judging a book by its cover. And that goes for every theater production.”

PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Recent Forsyth Central High School graduate Bridget Upchurch rehearses as Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde the Musical” Aug. 25 at the Forsyth County Arts and Learning Center. The show, which ran two weekends in August, sold 3,412 tickets.

UPCHURCH Forsyth Central High School graduate

Parker Ossmann and Bridget Upchurch rehearse Aug. 25 before a “Legally Blonde the Musical” performance at the Forsyth County Arts and Learning Center. Ossmann and Upchurch secured the roles of Emmett and Elle Woods after auditioning in May.

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NOTICE

The City of Roswell Mayor and Council does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at meetings to be held at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia 30075 on September 18, 2023 at 7:00 PM and September 25, 2023 at 7:00 PM and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year’s tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.

A Community of Advocates For Local

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PRESERVING THE PAST

Alpharetta Library and the historic role of volunteering

Volunteering can be traced back to medieval Britain where churches aided the poor and sick. In 1865 William Booth and his wife Catherine began the Salvation Army in London. Their daughter Eva Cory Booth established the organization in the United States and supervised the volunteer “Doughnut Girls” during World War l. Benjamin Franklin started the first volunteer firehouse in Philadelphia in 1736, and the American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton in 1881.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2021 almost 61 million Americans volunteered through organizations providing $123 billion in economic value. Library volunteers have played an important role thanks in large part to Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) who funded the construction of 2,509 libraries worldwide between 1883 and 1929 including 1,795 in the United States, of which 1,687 were public libraries and 108 were academic. About 800 are still used as libraries. Twenty-four Carnegie public libraries were built in Georgia between 1898 and 1914.

Volunteer Friends of the Library Libraries need community support. One requirement for a Carnegie grant was a commitment by a community to raise additional funds to support library programs.

The first library Friends group in the United States, was founded in 1922 in Illinois. The first university Friends group in the US was formed at Harvard in 1925.

Alpharetta Branch Library

In February 1965 the leadership of the Alpharetta Women’s Club met with the leaders of the Alpharetta Jaycees, Alpharetta Lions Club and President of the Sandy Springs Library Board to discuss the creation of an Alpharetta library. They realized the importance of having clubs, businesses, churches and private citizens working together with the Fulton Country Government to create a branch library. Up to that time Alpharetta was serviced by a station wagon bookmobile that came to town every other Wednesday afternoon.

The library opened June 1, 1966 in the Alpharetta municipal building where the City of Alpharetta provided rent-free space. In 1989 a new library opened in its own building at 238 Canton Street. In 2015 the library moved again to a beautiful new 25,000 square foot facility

Ben Statham has been winning awards for 35 years in recognition of his outstanding volunteer work for the 501c3 Friends of the Alpharetta Library, thought to be the first Friends group in the area. Here Statham receives the 2000 Special Volunteer of the Year Award from the Fulton County Library System.

located at 10 Park Plaza in the Alpharetta City Center development. It is one of the most used libraries in the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System.

Alpharetta Library special Friends Ben and Linda Statham

That brings us to Ben and Linda Statham, board members of the Friends of the Alpharetta Branch Library, who have devoted the past 33 years to raising money to support library programs.

As a child in the 1940s, Ben lived in a house near the Ida Williams Branch Library on Buckhead Avenue in Atlanta.

Linda Statham speaks at a public hearing in 2007 where residents expressed opinions about the future growth of Alpharetta’s library facilities. Linda Statham made a plea for more children’s books and more library space to serve growing community’s needs.

It was a small house with three resident adults and three children which made it difficult for Ben to concentrate. He wanted to improve his grades in the 10th grade so he spent evenings doing his homework in the library and his grades improved. At the University of Georgia he used the library as a study hall as he earned his degree in business, finance and real estate.

About 1990 Ben became a Friend of the Alpharetta Library and for the next 32 years he did not miss a single book sale, except during Covid. He organized the sales, encouraged the donation of books and retrieved books from a special bin

What’s next?

What historical topic would you like Bob to write about in the future? Email ideas and questions to bobmey@ bellsouth.net.

NATIONAL

Portrait of philanthropist Andrew Carnegie who funded the construction of more than 2,500 public and academic libraries in the United States between 1883 and 1929 including 24 libraries in Georgia. He encouraged community involvement and funding to support the libraries he built.

at the Roswell recycling center set aside for him. He has served as President of the Board of the Alpharetta Friends and has won awards every year for 30 years. No wonder since he regularly volunteers more than 1000 service hours per year. This year the Friends were able to pay for twenty-four adult and children's programs to supplement the financial support Fulton County Government gives to the library and the financial support from the City of Alpharetta.

Linda, a speech pathologist in the Cherokee County school system, served as treasurer of the Friends, secretary and helped with library programs. She also served on the Friends Board of Directors for 32 years. She says “The success of the Friends is due to the dedicated volunteers, many of whom have donated over 20 + years of tireless work.”

With Friends like Linda and Ben, good things happen.

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 MEYERS

Columnist

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA Alpharetta Branch Library where Friends of the Alpharetta Library hold used book sales on the first Saturday of each month. Proceeds support library programs and provide materials and are tax deductible.

STATHAM FAMILY/PROVIDED

APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO

PORTRAIT GALLERY/PROVIDED

AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT. 29 - “SINATRA & FRIENDS” NIGHT

Open to the Public

Featuring Dr. Patrick Sallarulo as Frank Sinatra, Sheri Winkelmann as Marilyn Monroe, and Mark Phillips as Dean Martin Visit www.legion201.org/events for details

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30 - “MARRIED WITH LAUGHTER”

Open to the Public

Featuring Jeff Norris and Renee DeLorenzo

Solution on next page

A Laughter at the Legion Series Show

Tickets available online or at the Clubroom/Bar Visit www.legion201.org/events for details

DANCES & DANCE INSTRUCTION – Open to the Public

Dances: Friday, Saturday & Sunday Evenings

Line Dance Instruction: Monday & Friday Mornings; Wednesday Evening Free Dance Lessons: Thursday Evening (Donations Accepted for Troops & Veterans Services)

For Complete Details Visit: www.club201dance.com/calendar

Unlock Your Green Thumb: Explore These 3 Exciting FREE Fall Gardening Classes!

gardening. Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting out, you'll discover how to create a garden that's enjoyable for all.

LEE TANENBAUM Guest Columnist

Greetings, gardening enthusiasts. Are you ready to transform your patch of earth into a blooming oasis? Looking to enhance your gardening skills and knowledge this fall? Look no further. We're excited to invite you to our free Fall Gardening Series, hosted by Fulton County Master Gardener Extension Volunteers and the Roswell Library. Join us for insightful inperson classes at the Roswell Library located at 115 Norcross Street, Roswell, GA 30075.

The classes will be presented by experienced North Fulton Master Gardeners who are passionate about gardening. They will share their knowledge and expertise with you and answer any questions you have.

Best of all, these classes are absolutely free to attend, and no registration is required. Simply mark your calendar and show up to learn, share, and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Here's a sneak peek of what each session has in store for you:

September 12th - "The Meaning of Flowers" presented by Kathie Lunsford: Have you ever been curious about the stories behind flowers and their symbolic meanings? Join us as Kathie Lunsford takes you on a journey through the fascinating language of flowers. Delve into the Victorian practice of creating Tussie Mussies and discover how different flowers were assigned unique meanings, especially when paired together in bouquets.

September 18th - "Fall Bulbs" presented by Carole MacMullan: Get a head start on your spring garden! Carole MacMullan will guide you through the art of planting flower bulbs this fall to ensure a breathtaking display of blooms in the coming spring. Learn valuable tips and techniques for cultivating a vibrant and colorful garden that will bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space.

September 25th - "Accessible Gardening" presented by Willis Lanier: Gardening is for everyone, and this presentation is all about making gardening accessible to everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Join Willis Lanier to explore ingenious solutions for accommodating accessibility in

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from experts, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, and enrich your gardening journey. Feel free to spread the word and bring along friends and family who share your passion for all things green.

We look forward to seeing you at the Roswell Library for our Fall Gardening Series. Let's embrace the beauty of nature and the joy of gardening together.

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 about NFMG at nfmg. net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/ opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/.

If You Go

• September 12th, September 18th, September 25th

• 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

• Roswell Library, 115 Norcross Street, Roswell, GA 30075

• 404-612-9700

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Lee Tanenbaum, a master gardener since 2011. Lee has served as NFMG’s Communications Co-Chair for Publicity and Marketing as well as the Interim Chair of the NFMG Gardening Education Team. Lee is a retired speech-language pathologist and public health professional, a mother of three, and a grandmother of nine. Lee loves to garden and travel, especially with her grandchildren.

Learn More

• 2024 MGEV class application - https://site.extension.uga.edu/fultonag/ files/2023/08/2024-Fulton-County-MGEV-Application-Final.pdf

• Fulton County MGEV page - https://extension.uga.edu/county-offices/fulton/agriculture-and-natural-resources/mastergardner.html

• Becoming a MGEV - https://extension.uga.edu/programs-services/georgia-master-gardener-extension-volunteer-program/volunteer/becoming-amgev.html

• Frequently Asked Questions - https://extension.uga.edu/programs-services/georgia-master-gardener-extension-volunteer-program/volunteer/ becoming-a-mgev/frequently-asked-questions.html

Bidenomics, mixed messages and your ten year plan

In late June, President Biden was in Maine touting the benefits of his economic plan, proclaiming that Bidenomics is driving an American manufacturing boom and is helping workers and innovators invent and make more goods here at home. On the same day, speaking in Iowa, Vice-President Kamala Harris said, “Most Americans are a $400 expense away from bankruptcy.” So which is it? Joe says his plan is benefiting workers while his veep says most Americans are broke. Talk about “mixed messages!”

LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP

ago, Milton Friedman, the acclaimed economist and educator at the University of Chicago, told students that inflation, pure and simple, is a monetary phenomenon. “It’s always and everywhere, a result of too much money, of a more rapid increase in the quantity of money than in output.” In other words, “too much money chasing too few goods.”

We know what happened. During the height of the Covid-19 epidemic, people stayed home, factories shut down, and the supply chain was interrupted. President Biden poured trillions of dollars into the economy, and while some folks saved money and paid down debts, most of the created and borrowed money found its way into increased spending midst shortages of goods. Why was surging inflation a surprise?

taxes on your Social Security benefits. Also, depending on your total taxable income, which can include interest from savings or from bond portfolios, dividends from stocks or other income producing assets, and capital gains from asset sales, you may pay more for Medicare Part B premiums. Premiums for a current year are based on your tax return filed two years ago. For 2023, for example, Part B premiums range from $164.90 per month, up to $560.50 per month for top earners. Medicare is not free! Tax planning is important in preparing for retirement, especially if major asset sales involving a closely-held business or other property are contemplated as prelude to retirement or financial independence.

cumulative inflation of 28.01%, the price for our happy couple would approach $30,000. With Congress fighting over federal budget restraint, and with continued borrowing and money printing required to support federal spending, what’s your outlook as to tax rates and inflation rates going forward?

At the household level, economics is about income and expenses. Incomes are rising and jobs are plentiful. But is your income keeping pace with inflation? Does your net after-tax income exceed your monthly expenses, allowing you to save for future expenses, say, big ticket items like buying a first home or a vacation home, upgrading your existing home, raising children, paying for educations, weddings, career advancement, ultimate retirement?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, on a net after-tax basis, it takes $118.27 as of June, 2023, to equal the buying power of $100 in January, 2020. That’s inflation! Years

GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA

Long range forecasting is an exercise in guesswork. But suppose you are in your mid- to late-50s, and in ten short years, by 2033, you want to retire, or just be economically selfsufficient to the point where work is optional. According to the Alliance for Lifetime Income, 51% of consumers age 45 to 75 don’t have sufficient retirement savings to last their lifetime. What would a thirty-year nonworking time frame look like? Pensions are increasingly rare and distributions from tax-qualified retirement accounts are taxed at ordinary income rates. If your total annual income is more than $25,000 for an individual or $32,000 for a married couple filing jointly, you must pay federal income

According to “The Wall Street Journal,” as of August 3, 2023, since June, 2022, “All Items” inflation is up by 3%. “Core Inflation” which measures the change in the costs of goods and services, excluding food and energy, is up by 4.8%. Use the latter figure in thinking about your next ten years, especially if you plan to eat and move around.

Suppose you and your significant other want to take a quality dream trip in 2034 in comfort, say an eleven day European sojourn featuring Switzerland and a Rhine River cruise on a top-tier ship with a highly rated tour operator, upper deck with a French balcony. The 2024 fare for a couple is $22,790, air transportation not included. In ten years at a mere 2.50% annualized inflation and

Some tour operators and cruise lines proclaim “air fare is included from select cities.” That normally is for basic economy, not upgraded economy, or first or business class. Always look for the “tour only” price and then compare that with what you could book on your own, especially if you can use airline points. An experienced travel agent can help you sort out options and make good choices.

What do your “next ten” years look like, in terms of basic necessities compared to higher style dreams and comfort? What about needs for other family members or grown children or grandchildren that you may be called on to fund? What about your health care needs or that of loved ones?

Planning can tax the mind. But “someday” is not a time frame. Procrastination is not a strategy. Your “next ten” can get complicated fast. Start planning now!

Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group (CIG); 770441-3553; lewis@capitalinsightgrp. com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial

New natural water and getting outfished

I went fishing today. Actually, she and I went fishing together.

She’s getting pretty good at it, too. In fact, the last few outings, she has (how to put it) outfished me, sometimes by a factor of two or three. Now I tell myself that this is because of the expert instruction that I have provided. That may be true, a little, but the real reason is that she appears to

be a natural. She just has that intuitive sense of how to make it work. And she does.

The creek is one that I’ve fished before. I know it pretty well. But today it’s different. There was a storm a week or so ago, and it was a big one. It dumped a deluge of Biblical proportions into the little channel. The force of that hydrologic rampage moved rocks and reshaped everything, erasing long-loved pools but simultaneously sculpting new ones. And the wind? The wind toppled trees, blocking familiar pathways and redirecting currents, obscuring the familiar even as it created opportunities

anew.

And so I find myself – I find us – in a familiar landscape, yet with unfamiliar nuances. It is a known space, familiar from dozens of visits over the arc of many years, and yet today it is also brand new.

That can play with your mind, if you let it.

But what of the fish? There have always been lots of them in this creek, and I know that they will still be there. They will simply have adjusted, finding new spots to hold in the wake of the storm as they sit patiently in the current and wait for the likes of us to

arrive.

We just have to find them.

Today, she is the first one to reach the water and the first one to cast. She’s fishing a place where she has fished before, but today there are those subtle changes and nuanced shifts in the flow. Here, a tree has toppled into the creek, and over there are new eddies and swirls. Here, high water has cut a new channel through the gravel, and yonder there are new deep spots to explore.

She apprises the situation, moves into position, and makes a cast. Thirty

See WATER, Page 32

Columnist

The Investment Coach

STEVE HUDSON Columnist

1939 Earl and Vivian Smith summer home

Along Chamblee Dunwoody Road, just north of DonaldsonBannister Farm and Vermack Road, was the location of the 1939 summer home of Earl and Vivian Lowrey Smith. They soon made it their permanent home. The white painted Cape Cod style home sat among lovely oak trees. Vivian Smith filled the home with fine antiques.

Earl Smith worked as a city salesman for Norris Candy, a large and successful candy manufacturer in the first half of the twentieth century. The Norris family also had a summer home along Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The guest house of the Norris family still stands on Sirron Court. Roy Head, who worked for Norris Candy for a time before starting his own candy company, lived in a white frame home on Chamblee Dunwoody Road with his wife Pamela. That home still stands, but the Smith house was demolished several years ago.

Before working for Norris Candy, Earl Smith worked for United Cigar Company. He listed United Cigar as his employer on his June 5, 1917, draft registration card. Smith served overseas from June 1918 until January 1919 as part of the Miscellaneous Quartermaster Companies Unit 2.

The 1930 census shows Earl and Vivian living on Kennesaw Avenue in Atlanta. He is listed as a candy salesman for Norris Candy. The census also lets us know the Smith family owned a radio.

In “The Story of Dunwoody” by Ethel Spruill and Elizabeth Davis, Vivian Smith

Water:

Continued from Page 31

seconds later she has her first fish. It hits a small buggy-looking fly which sported a pink body and some wiggly elastic legs, and it is a decent fish by any measure.

She brings it in and unhooks it and admires its vivid coloration and then slips it back into the water. Then she turns to me and says, “That’s one!”

She casts again, and a half a minute later I hear her voice call to me again, a lyrical counterpoint to the music of the creek as it splashes happily through a riffle on its way to wherever it is going.

“That’s two!” she says.

Meanwhile, I stand there on a

shared some of her memories of living in what was considered the country at the time. Smith recalled, “My husband was so in love with the beauty of the outdoors and country living that even though there was no central heating in the house, he persuaded me to spend the winter in Dunwoody. He spoke in such glowing terms of the crackling log fires, the romance of candlelight and the beauty of the snow and ice storms we would see when winter came, that he finally persuaded me, against my better judgement to stay.”

One night the couple was expecting guests from Atlanta for dinner. Smith laughingly told how her guests “found me

shady gravel bar rigging up my own rod. I open the fly box and consider the possibilities. For perhaps a minute I peruse the available flies –

“That’s number three!” she says, her voice floating to me over the song of the dancing creek.

– and then I select a small and fuzzy creation with a body of tan yarn and wing made from the hair of an elk. I tie it to my line, taking my time –

“Four!” I hear her say, her voice a little fainter now that she has worked her way upstream a few yards. I see the sun glint off her rod as she makes another cast.

Rigged at last, I finally make my own first cast and immediately draw a strike, a good fish, a big fish. I move to set the hook, but I miss it completely, probably because I am distracted by

at the stove bundled in my precious fur coat, broiling steaks.”

In 1940, Atlanta Journal writer John Woodward shared a story about J. Earl Smith in his “About Dogs” column. A starving stray dog showed up at the Smith home, so thin “you could count his ribs.” Earl and Vivian Smith named him Pup and began serving him table scraps from their dinner table. He kept returning each night for another meal.

Pup was a mixed breed dog, which suited the couple fine since they were “folks who’d rather have an inch of dog than miles of pedigree.”

Then one day, after Pup was no longer

her voice again. She is saying, “That’s five!”

I turn toward the sound and see her looking my way. And I see a splash as yet a fish rises. I see her rod bend again.

“Six!” she calls, and I hear laughter in her voice.

That’s how it has been, the last few outings. We fish. We catch. But she catches more.

I recall something I read once, something about why we fish. If I recall it right, we start fishing simply to catch something. Then we fish to catch many fish, and then to catch big fish, and finally we fish just to be there, to be in the moment, to savor the whole thing and then some.

The water is noisy as it splashes over the rocks at my feet. I look

looking gaunt, he showed up with another thin and starving dog. Earl Smith filled up one plate with food for the two dogs. Rather than get in a fight over the food, Pup stepped aside and let the new dog get his fill. Then Pup ate what was left. The Smiths named the new dog Blue and continued to share their leftovers each evening with the pair.

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.

upstream again, see her there, watch her cast. It is beautiful.

Then I turn my gaze downstream to see where the water is going, and I wonder what, in this reconfigured landscape, might be around that bend. But I can’t quite make it out. Trees toppled by the storm obscure my view.

Yet I’ve fished around that bend before, in other times, before the storm came and shook everything up. I know the shape of the landscape, the broad curve of the channel. Yes, I know that it will be different in the wake of the storm. But I also know that it’ll be okay.

So I turn downstream, walking in the once-familiar channel towards new water, following a streambed that is as comforting as it is brand new.

“Seven!” I hear her call to me, and I smile.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF/APPEN MEDIA

The 1939 home of Earl and Vivian Smith once sat along Chamblee Dunwoody Road, just north of Vermack Road.

MUSIC ON THE HILL: THE GEEK SQUAD

What: The Geek Squad Band will perform as part of a free outdoor music series every second Friday of the month through September.

Bring a blanket, unpack your picnic and uncork a bottle to unwind with sounds from this dynamic cover band.

When: Friday, Sept. 8, 7-9 p.m.

Where: Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell

More info: roswell365.com

AN EVENING OF SONG FEATURING INDIA TYREE

What: Join this event for a performance of musical theater standards by one of Atlanta’s talented singers, India Tyree.

When: Sept. 8-10, 7:30-9 p.m.

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

Cost: $28 for adults; $20 for students; $15 for children

More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET

What: Every Saturday morning through November, more than a dozen vendors set up shop near the Town Green with locally grown produce, natural meat, gardeners with fresh flowers and plants, handcrafted gifts, jellies, sauces and soaps, homemade baked goods and more.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 8:30 a.m.12 p.m.

Where: North and South Broad streets in Alpharetta

More info: alpharettafarmersmarket. com

MILTON TOUCH-A-TRUCK

What: Bring the family to explore big trucks, heavy-duty equipment and large vehicles. At this free event, there will also be food, live music, inflatables and more.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Where: Stonecreek Church, 13540 Ga. 9, Milton

More info: miltonga.gov

DOGGY DAZE OF SUMMER

What: Bring your pooch and enjoy the last days of summer at East Roswell Park for a free outdoor extravaganza.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 4-9 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: roswell365. com

DOGGY DAZE OF SUMMER

What: Bring your pooch and enjoy the last days of summer at East Roswell Park for a free outdoor extravaganza.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 4-9 p.m.

Where: East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: roswell365.com

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: WHO’S BAD

What: Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to this free summer concert series, where the Michael Jackson cover band Who’s Bad will perform. Food trucks will be on-site. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Dogs are not allowed, except service animals. Music begins at 7 p.m.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

COMEDY ON THE GREEN

What: In this premiere event of Southern Magnolia Charities, actress and comedian Carolina Rhea will perform. Proceeds will benefit three local charities.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 7:30-10 p.m.

Where: The Green at Crabapple Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton More info: crabapplemarketga.com

CONCERT BY THE SPRINGS: STILL SWINGING

What: Get ready to hear horns, woodwinds, strings and percussion with the band, Still Swinging. Lawn seating is free. No pets are allowed.

When: Sunday, Sept. 10, 7 p.m.

Where: Heritage Amphitheater Lawn, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringsga.gov

A NIGHT WITH DAD’S 2: THE DADDENING

What: Stage Door Theatre will host

easy

comics from Dad’s Garage, a comedy improv theater.

When: Saturday, Sept. 16, 7:30-9 p.m.

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

Cost: $28 for adults; $20 for students; $15 for children

More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

CONCERTS BY THE SPRINGS: GUARDIANS OF THE JUKEBOX

What: Described as “a visual and sonic highlight reel of one of the most influential decades in music history,” Guardians of the Jukebox is an ’80s-nostalgia juggernaut. Lawn seating is free. Blankets, lawn chairs and umbrellas are welcome, but no pets are allowed.

When: Sunday, Sept. 17, 7 p.m.

Where: Heritage Amphitheater Lawn, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following items will be considered by the City Council on Monday, September 25, 2023 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia

a. V-23-21 Thompson Street Park – Waiting Period Variance

Consideration of a variance to reduce the waiting period for City Council consideration of a public hearing request on the same property from twelve (12) to six (6) months. The property is located at 132 Brook Street and 51 Thompson Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 748, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

b. PH-23-18 Thompson Street Park – Change of Condition

Consideration of a public hearing to change conditions of zoning to modify home elevations to allow the rear homes to be 3 stories. The property is located at 132 Brook Street and 51 Thompson Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 748, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Historic Preservation Commission on Thursday, October 12, 2023 commencing at 3:00 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

a. PH-23-17 Earl Wood House – Certificate of Appropriateness

Consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness to allow for restoration, building addition, and residential accessory structures for the Earl Wood House. The property is located at 531 State Highway 9 and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 645, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.

b. PH-23-19 Gardner House – Certificate of Appropriateness

Consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness to allow for restoration, building addition, and residential accessory structures for the Gardner House. The property is located at 133 Cumming Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 1253 & 1254, 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.

DEATH NOTICES

Elizabeth Alty, 97, of Milton, passed away on August 20, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Harry Anderson, 86, of Alpharetta, passed away on August 27, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Sylvia Baldow, 84, of Roswell, passed away on August 28, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Alleen Dixon, 97, of Roswell, passed away on August 24, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Robert King, 72, of Roswell, passed away on August 23, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Lakshma Komatireddy, 87, Alpharetta, passed away on August 24, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

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CITY OF ROSWELL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Board of Zoning Appeals on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Roswell City Hall Council Chambers, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia.

a. BZA20233282 – 2530 Camden Glen Court

The applicant, John deCouto, is requesting a variance to rear setback, land lot 759.

The complete file is available for public view at the Roswell Planning & 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 ELECTION CANCELLATION

Pursuant to O.C.G.A § 21-2-291 and §21-2-325, notice is hereby given that the City of Alpharetta General Municipal Election scheduled for November 7, 2023 is cancelled. The following candidates qualified for office and are unopposed:

November 7, 2023 General Municipal Election:

• For Mayor Jim Gilvin

• For Councilmember – Post 4 John Hipes

• For Councilmember – Post 5 Fergal M. Brady

• For Councilmember – Post 6 Dan Merkel

The above unopposed candidates shall be deemed to have voted for themself.

The 7th day of September 2023.

Lauren Shapiro Municipal Election Qualifying Officer City Clerk for the City of Alpharetta

Randy Knighton City Administrator

CITY OF ROSWELL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Kurt Wilson Mayor

The following item will be discussed at a Neighborhood meeting on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Roswell City Hall, Room 220, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, Georgia.

a. RZ 20232847/ CV 20233093 – 525 E. Crossville Road

The applicant, Teresa Curry/Axis Infrastructure, LLC, is requesting a Rezoning from OP (Office Park) to PV (Parkway Village) and a Concurrent Variance for build-to zone.

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

CITY OF ROSWELL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following item will be considered by the Planning Commission at a public hearing on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Roswell City Hall Council Chambers, 38 Hill St. Roswell, Georgia.

a. RZ 20232847/ CV 20233093 – 525 E. Crossville Road

The applicant, Teresa Curry/Axis Infrastructure, LLC, is requesting a Rezoning from OP (Office Park) to PV (Parkway Village) and a Concurrent Variance for build-to zone.

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 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 & Zoning Office, 38 Hill Street, Suite G-30, Roswell, Georgia, (770) 817-6720, or planningandzoning@roswellgov.com. Refer to www.roswellgov.com.

SOLICITATION FOR PROPOSALS

CITY OF MOUNTAIN PARK

118 LAKESHORE DRIVE MOUNTAIN PARK, GA 30075

The City of Mountain Park will be receiving separate sealed Bids for all material, labor and equipment for the “Russell Road Pipe Rehabilitation”. The work will require a Georgia licensed underground utility contractor to repair and rehab two existing 36-inch RCP pipes underneath Russell Road by using CCCP lining methods. Other repairs include but are not limited to prepping the existing pipes for final liner by filling voids around pipes, sealing joints, replacing failed pipe sections with new RCP pipes, installing pipe collars, installing junction box, installing new catch basin top with manhole access, modifying existing road drainage pipe and install and connect new poured in place concrete headwalls. To obtain a copy of bidding documents, please visit www.intse.com or www.mountainparkgov.com where the documents are available for download at no charge. It is the Bidder’s responsibility to ensure they have all bidding documents and addendums from the website. The City of Mountain Park will receive sealed bids until 10/10/2023, at 2:00 p.m. located at City Hall, 118 Lakeshore Drive, Mountain Park, GA 30075. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened and publicly read aloud. The contract will be awarded to the low, responsive, and responsible bidder with reservation of right to reject all bids. For any technical questions, contact djohnson@intse.com or city.clerk@mountainparkgov.com

Randy Knighton City Administrator Kurt Wilson Mayor

Randy Knighton City Administrator

Kurt Wilson Mayor

Full-time

Workforce Development Coordinator is responsible for developing programs and services for NFCC clients and students seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The workforce development coordinator collaborates with local employers to help match job seekers to open positions. They work directly with clients on the job application, resumes, and interview preparations and provide tips for successfully securing and improving employment to foster financial stability.  Bachelor’s degree in a human services, human resources, or other related field required and 2 years of professional experience in human services, human resources or career counseling preferred.

To view the entire listing visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/. To apply, please submit resume to Carol Swan at cswan@nfcchelp.org.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK

Sawnee EMC is seeking an Accounts Receivable Clerk to reconcile consumer accounts and process members’ transactions (i.e., Cash, Check, Credit Card, or Money Order). Will supply information to customers and resolve customer inquiries through face-to-face communication. Requires: high school diploma or equivalency, proficiency in mathematics, monetary, and general office skills. A minimum of two years of related experience preferred. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings and weekends.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, September 8, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation(s) may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

VETERINARY TECHNICIANS & ASSISTANTS:

Dunwoody Animal Medical Center is hiring! Send resume to office@dunwoodyamc.com

Software Engineer Specialist (Alpharetta, GA): Works throughout the software development life cycle and collaborating with software development and operations team to design and implementing processes for building, testing, and deploying software. Implementing automation tools and frameworks to improve the efficiency and reliability of the software delivery. Monitoring performance of software systems and resolving any issues that arise. Implementing best practices for security and data protection in software development and deployment process. Resumes to: Total System Services LLC, Brian Simons, Associate Director, HR Risk and Compliance, One TSYS Way, Columbus GA 31901. Job #SK657504.

Optum Services, Inc. Software Engineer 3. Alpharetta, GA: Responsible for developing cloud applications. Support current and future TIBCO, BW, BE, EMS, Foresight and Corepoint development for company products. Can work remotely. Mail resume to GMI Recruitment at 9900 Bren Road East MN008 R120, Minnetonka, MN 55343 and indicate applying for #23-GA-6050.

Part-time

24 hour emergency

Associate Product Manager (Alpharetta, GA): Build a wide variety of solutions from automated infrastructure & cloud-based systems, to machine learning & user experiences for web, mobile & IoT. Create open API’s & content for TSYS Developers. Resumes to: Total System Services LLC, Brian Simons, HR Risk and Compliance, One TSYS Way, Columbus, GA 31901. Job #MCG546535

DISPATCHER

Sawnee EMC is seeking a Dispatcher with electric utility experience to dispatch workers for customer service, normal maintenance, or emergency repairs to electric-power transmission and distribution lines. Requires high school diploma or equivalency, minimum of one (1) year working knowledge of radio operation, or equivalent experience, map reading and line design knowledge, problem solving and communication skills by radio, telephone and in person. Must be available for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends. Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, September 15, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568. Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

Donor Operations Associate

The Donor Operations Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and sorts merchandise in a designated area.  They are responsible for keeping the merchandise secure, all areas free of debris and the donor door area neat and clean.  This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected to provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor.  High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Ability to perform low to moderate facility maintenance tasks.  To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/work-atnfcc/  To apply, please complete an application for employment and email to Marten Jallad,  mjallad@nfcchelp.org.

MATH TUTORS

Give Back! Perfect for retirees! Mathnasium of Johns Creek. 404-388-8701

Tree

Pruning, Stump grinding, Free mulch. Fully insured. Emergency 24/7. 770-450-8188

Home Improvement

DECKS BUILT & REPAIRED-DRYBELOW SYSTEMS INSTALLED – Affordable hardwood flooring-engineered flooring. Heritage Home Maintenance, 678-906-7100 HOMEREPAIRGA@GMAIL.COM, (HERITAGECONSTRUCTIONGA.COM)

678-508-2432

Pinestraw

PINESTRAW, MULCH

Delivery/installation available. Firewood available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612

Roofing

ROOF LEAKING?

Call us for roof repair or roof replacement. FREE quotes. $200 OFF Leak Repairs or 10% off New Roof. Affordable, quality roofing. Based in Roswell. Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123. Christian Brothers Roofing

Driveway

$250 OFF NEW DRIVEWAY!

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.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

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

1-800-245-0398

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo!

Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Become a published author.

We want to read your book!

Mention this ad. Concrete driveway specialists. Driveways, Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs.  A+ BBB rating. FREE ESTIMATE. Call Rachael at 678-250-4546 to schedule a FREE Estimate. 30 years of experience. ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC Please note we do have a minimum charge on accepted jobs of $4,500.

Cemetery

GREENLAWN ROSWELL: 2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $6000 each! 770-475-7307

Miscellaneous

Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24.

1-866-479-1516

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Fi-nancing available.

1-855-417-1306

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure!

1-888-489-3936

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom!

1-833-758-3892

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS

1-866-859-0405

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual In-surance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844-774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/ads

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707

My Caring Plan’s local advisors have helped thousands of families with unique needs find sen-ior living. Can you afford 2k a month in rent? We can help for free! 866-511-1799

Deadline to place a Classified ad is Thursday at 4

pm

E BLUFF

LECOMA TRACE