Roswell courts foreign partners to expand STEM industry
CITY OF ROSWELL/PROVIDED Seer World CEO/Founder Peter Sorckoff, PBS Director of Operations Tomas Koutsky, Roswell City Councilwoman Christine Hall, Roswell Government and Community Affairs Manager Katrina Singletary, PBS Vice President of Operations Pavel Cechal and Alex Kaufman, partner at local firm Chalmers, Adams, Baker & Kaufman and general counsel to the Georgia Republican Party, gather during a meeting in Prague.
City incurs $14,300 expense for visit to Czech Republic
By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell officials are making moves to recruit businesses abroad in the aerospace, quantum computing and AI industries.
The plan was shared with Appen Media after its inquiry over open records that showed a $14,300 week-long trip to the Czech Republic in early October.
The cost includes travel expenses for City Councilwoman Christine Hall and Government and Community Affairs Manager Katrina Singletary as well as Peter Sorckoff, founder and CEO of Seer World, the city’s economic development consultant.
“Isn’t it cheap?” Hall asked over a conference table at City Hall. “Wasn’t it a great deal?”
Sorckoff’s $5,400 invoice for travel reimbursement, sent separately, was categorized under the first scope of work associated with his five-year contract with the city. In addition to
developing economic development goals, the specific task order includes identifying attractive industries absent in Roswell.
In early November, the council more than doubled the budget for the first scope of work, after Seer exhausted its original $275,000 budget.
The purpose of the trip, Hall said, was to solidify the opportunity to become an accelerator for businesses in the Czech Republic.
The city was formally invited after about a year of discussions with Czechia Consulate Monika Vintrlikova. Hall said she has known her for a long time.
“We would get the companies that basically have been incubated, and they’re ready to take off,” she said.
Singletary, sitting next to Hall, said the city is planning to build an accelerator program, outlined in its economic development strategy. The strategy has been discussed and referenced a number of times throughout council meetings, but an official, comprehensive document has not been published for review.
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta officials are reviewing a plan by Portman Holdings to build homes and commercial space at an office park along Brookside Parkway now struggling with vacancies.
The city’s Horizon 2040 Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2021, identified Brookside as part of a priority area for redevelopment. Suggested
improvements include pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, activity centers and neighborhoods. Located about 1 mile east of Ga. 400, Brookside has one of the highest vacancy rates in Alpharetta with about a third of offices unoccupied,
Commission Feb. 6 and will go before the City Council on Feb. 24.
Alpharetta’s approximate 21 million square feet of office space was once 90 percent occupied. Vacancy rates now stand at about 23 percent.
The 19.7-acre property is currently occupied by two office buildings and an expansive parking lot. The redevelopment plan is scheduled for consideration by the Planning
City officials said they hope to reinvigorate the demand for traditional office parks by incorporating amenities. The COVID-19 pandemic and changing
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Harassment case linked to suspect in earlier report
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Officers investigated a report of harassment Nov. 25 after a woman said a man had repeatedly messaged her.
A 23-year-old Alpharetta woman told police she had received numerous disturbing messages from the man, according to an Alpharetta police report. She said she had met the man the previous night and he had driven her home.
The woman was unable to offer a physical description of the man or his vehicle, but she provided two numbers she suspected him of messaging her from. She also gave officers his first name.
Police were unable to contact the man via the phone numbers.
A search of police records yielded a Johns Creek harassment report that included one of the numbers. The report included a suspect with a first name matching the one provided by the woman.
According to the police report, statements in the police report were similar to those received by the woman.
Officers identified the suspect as a 24-year-old Alpharetta man.
The employee said the storage building underneath the cell tower was burglarized sometime between June 23 and Dec. 5. The company reported 24 batteries used for backup power at the tower, each valued at $3,000, had been stolen.
Officers said the steel door had been pried open and destroyed along with an electronic lock to the building. They said the damages and stolen batteries total $74,000.
After the employee was unable to provide officers with a description of a suspect or the date of the burglary, officers said they contacted the Criminal Investigations Division.
The pending felony charge is second-degree forced burglary.
Hayden Sumlin
Packages reported stolen from apartment’s doorway
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A woman reported on Nov. 25 the theft of several packages delivered to her residence.
The 28-year-old Alpharetta woman told officers two packages were stolen from the doorstep of her apartment in November, according to an Alpharetta police report.
On Nov. 6, a package containing two iPhone 16 Pro Maxes went missing after FedEx reported them delivered. She reported the theft to AT&T and received replacement phones at a store.
were stolen from her doorstep, but she could not provide exact dates or descriptions of the items.
The stolen shoes were valued at a total of $1,920.
The incident was classified as a felony theft by taking, greater than $1,500.
Jon Wilcox
Woman reports fraud through online scam
ROSWELL, Ga. — An 86-year-old Roswell resident reported financial identity fraud after finding herself the victim of a Facebook-based scam Dec. 5.
The victim told officers she received a message from a Facebook friend Dec. 3 claiming that she was a part of a decentralized hedge fund program.
Officers said the scam involved the promise of $150,000 if participants send a certain amount of money to qualify.
The following day, the victim said she asked the Facebook friend how to get the money, which involved buying three $250 Xbox gift cards.
Officers said the victim was instructed to send the gift card numbers to a person who used a pseudonym.
The victim said once she sent the third card, she was instructed to buy another in order to receive the $150,000 because the transaction “did not work.”
Jon Wilcox
Batteries worth $72,000 stolen from tower site
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating a burglary at the Verizon cell tower off Old Dogwood Road after an employee reported a break-in Dec. 5.
On Nov. 24, a package containing 13 pairs of shoes went missing from her doorstep. The woman gave police a picture showing the delivered package taken by a FedEx driver.
On April 4, a package containing two iPhone 15 Pro Maxes was stolen from her doorstep at a previous apartment she lived at in the complex. A neighbor’s surveillance camera recorded a man wearing a white hoodie and black pants walk up to her door and take the package, she said.
The woman said other packages
The victim said she made a fourth purchase at CVS before calling her financial adviser about the situation. The police report did not disclose exactly how much the victim lost.
An officer said he read the victim’s Facebooks messages with the suspect and determined her Facebook account had been hacked.
The officer said he showed the victim how to block the account and avoid similar situations in the future.
— Hayden Sumlin
Milton’s insurer taps former chief justice in wrongful death case
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — Milton’s fight against a $35 million wrongful death judgment, upheld in September by the state Court of Appeals, just got a boost.
City Manager Steve Krokoff told Appen Media Dec. 5 that the agency providing Milton’s legal representation has retained the former chief justice of the Georgia Supreme Court.
Harold Melton, who served as chief justice from 2018-21, and his firm Troutman Pepper will now help lead a drive to have the case reviewed by the Georgia Supreme Court.
The city’s representation in the case is through the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency, which is affiliated with the Georgia Municipal Association.
In 2016, Joshua Chang, a senior with a full-ride scholarship to Yale University, died after hitting a concrete planter along Batesville Road in Milton on his way home during Thanksgiving break.
Chang’s parents sued the city for wrongful death, ultimately receiving a Superior Court judgement for $35 million.
The Court of Appeals upheld the ruling.
Some residents, citing the $10,000 in postjudgement interest accruing each day, asked the city and its insurer to stop fighting the case after the verdict came in this fall.
But, it appears the fight isn’t ending soon.
Through amicus briefs, surrounding cities joined
The Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency has tapped former Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Harold D. Melton and his firm, Troutman Pepper, to help overturn a $35 million judgement against the City of Milton.
Milton to petition the Supreme Court to overturn the decision in November. The cities say the judgement risks putting municipal residents across the state on the hook if a person leaves the road, hits an object and is killed or seriously injured.
Melton also serves as the Sanders Scholar in Political Leadership at the University of Georgia’s School of Law and teaches a seminar there. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and his law degree from UGA.
Krokoff said Troutman Pepper attorneys are skilled in presenting complex legal arguments and have a track record of success in appellate litigation,
particularly in high-stakes and precedent-setting cases.
“Their legal sophistication makes them a valuable asset in advocating before the state's highest court,” Krokoff said. “Yesterday, former Chief Justice Melton filed a petition … with the Georgia Supreme Court, formally requesting the court to review the case.”
He said a decision on whether the court will hear the case is typically expected within 90 to 120 days.
During a Nov. 18 City Council meeting, Milton Families First President Adam Hollingsworth raised questions about the city’s allowing Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency (GIRMA) to represent them in the wrongful death lawsuit.
“The decisions made — from selecting underqualified legal counsel to rejecting reasonable settlement offers — have left the City of Milton and its citizens bearing an unconscionable financial burden,” Hollingworth wrote. “This case not only raises serious doubts about GIRMA’s ability to serve its members effectively but also highlights systemic issues that jeopardize public trust.”
The development is likely to raise spirits throughout Milton, though.
“The City of Milton is pleased that GIRMA has taken the steps to retain former Justice Melton and Troutman Pepper,” Krokoff said. “The talent that he and his firm bring will result in Milton putting its absolute best case before the Georgia Supreme Court to hopefully persuade [it] to take the case and weigh in on a judgment that has monumental adverse consequences for cities throughout Georgia.”
UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOOL OF LAW/PROVIDED
Alpharetta-Milton
Christmas at Midway Christmas Midway
December 24th
Christmas Eve
3:00 p.m. Children’s Pop-up Christmas Pageant
This family-friendly service invites children to help tell the story of the very first Christmas! Wear a costume or borrow one from the church.
5:00 p.m. Modern – Sanctuary
7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m. Traditional – Chapel
Join us for one of these candlelight and communion services as we celebrate the birth of Christ.
| www.MidwayUMC.org
County to consolidate services at site on North Point Parkway
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Fulton County
will turn a former COVID-19 testing site off North Point Parkway in Alpharetta into a new Health & Human Services Center.
The plan, approved by the County Commission Nov. 20, has been in the works for a couple years and is funded through an $11 million loan from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia.
Before Thanksgiving, commissioners approved a $15.4 million construction contract with Beck PMI for renovation of the building at 4700 North Point Parkway, which will be called the North Fulton Health & Human Services Center.
There were no comments or discussion at the Nov. 20 meeting.
The contract requires completion within 300 days.
Fulton County bought the building in 2019 and used it as the main site for COVID-19 testing, vaccination and emergency supplies during the pandemic.
Jim Gaines, public affairs manager
consolidate its services within several older offices in North Fulton County into one site.
County staff said the new center is expected to house the state Department of Public Health’s various training and community support programs, like ones for traveling nurses and dentistry, as well as its Vital Records Office.
It will also include behavioral health services for youths, adults and those with developmental disabilities; the Department of Real Estate and Asset Management; the Georgia Emergency Management Agency; DUI services through the county’s Superior Court; and programming for seniors.
County staff said the goal is to ensure that North Fulton and surrounding populations can access critical services. While some services are curated for seniors, a majority will be available to everyone.
with Fulton County, said the building sits on nearly 24 acres, leaving plenty of room for expansion even when the 108,000-square-foot building is full.
Gaines said the existing plan will
use about two-thirds of the space, offering services from the county and some partner agencies, as well as expanding those for seniors.
The decision allows the county to
Pamela Roshell, chief operating officer, said the county will also do a feasibility study to find the best site for a similar center in South Fulton. Staff said a 40-acre site near Stonewall Tell Road is one possibility, but no decision has been made.
GOOGLE EARTH
A look at 4700 North Point Parkway shows the future site of the North Fulton Health & Human Services Center. Fulton County Commissioners approved a $15.4 million construction contract Nov. 20 for renovation of the facility to serve as a one-stop shop for multiple health and related services.
ROB SCHRYVER, founder, Shuckin’ Shack
Owner wants to bring seaside to downtown Alpharetta
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Rob Schryver wants to bring the seashore to Alpharetta.
Oyster bars and seafood houses were always some of Schryver’s favorite experiences while vacationing in Florida. The Alpharetta resident said the bounty of fresh seafood he enjoyed during visits to the shore have inspired him to replicate the experience.
“We got thinking it would be nice to find a place like this up here without having to travel down to Florida to get it,” he said.
Schryver plans to open a Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar at 9 S. Main St. in January in the heart of Alpharetta’s downtown at a space once occupied by South Main Kitchen. The location will be one of 18 franchise restaurants with locations in Cumming, North and South Carolina, Florida, Maryland and Illinois.
Fresh seafood, particularly raw oysters, will be at the heart of the restaurant's menu, Schryver said. He plans on sourcing oysters from East Coast waters, such as Chesapeake, Georgia and Canada and others from the Gulf and West Coast.
Schryver said he would love to feature a rotating selection of four to six seasonal oysters on top of a couple house varieties.
There’s something special about a raw oyster, although the restaurant will offer plenty of cooked variations like Oysters Rockefeller, he said.
Schryver’s lifelong love for the delicacy began as a child when his father used to cook them up.
large and small gatherings like parties, meet-ups and date nights.
Low lighting and beach decor like surfboards, fishing nets, crab traps and beach vacation photos will create an ambience that transports customers to the seashore. A pass-through entrance will allow easy access to the street and an open, outdoorsy vibe during nice weather.
“I’ve been eating them since I was 5 years old,” he said. “I’ve never had a bad one.”
On top of oysters, the Shuckin’ Shack will offer a full seafood menu, including clams, crab legs, mussels, peel and eat and fried shrimp, Alfredo, scampi, lobster rolls, fresh fish, crab cakes and more.
“Anything on the coast, you’ll find here,” Schryver said.
With a full-service bar, capacity for about 100 diners and plenty of outdoor seating, Schryer said the restaurant will be an ideal spot for individual dining and
With many entrees priced in the $15-$20 range, Schuckin’ Shack’s menu will balance affordability and quality, he said.
Schryver said he envisions an ideal experience would be on a night when the restaurant is hosting live music.
A group of friends might start off with a dozen raw oysters with a beer before veering off into bourbon or mixed drinks. After drinks, the group might settle in for more filling entrees of fresh fish.
Shcryver said his goal is for patrons to think, “If I didn’t know better, I’d have said we were down in the Gulf right now.”
PHOTOS BY: SHUCKIN’ SHACK/PROVIDED Shuckin’ Shack aims to provide a seashore experience inland with beach decor and fresh seafood daily. The restaurant chain already has more than a dozen locations in the U.S.
Raw oysters are a centerpiece of Shuckin’ Shack’s menu, but the restaurant also will offer fresh fish, shrimp, crab and other seafood.
Trader Joe’s to open at Halcyon
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Trader Joe’s is joining the mixed-use development Halcyon soon.
Situated on the Big Creek Greenway trailhead side of Halcyon next to the new Chick-fil-A, the neighborhood grocery store will operate a 13,500-square-foot location, joining seven others in Metro Atlanta.
The announcement follows Halcyon’s fifth anniversary.
“For five years, Halcyon has been your date night, your retail indulgence, the background of your photos and the place where countless memories were made,” said Phil Mays, principal of RocaPoint Partners, the
developer of Halcyon. “Trader Joe’s is the missing puzzle piece that fits right in, functioning as a vital service provider that helps to complete our district.”
As Halcyon enters its sixth year as a part of the Forsyth County region, Phase III construction continues. In addition to Trader Joe’s, Chewy Vet Care, Chase Bank, Chick-fil-A and Five Guys will open in the next phase. For additional information about Halcyon, visit www.visithalcyon.com or follow @VisitHalcyon on Instagram and Facebook.
— Amber Perry
MARTA seeks to merge service with planned I-285 express lanes
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — MARTA is in the midst of studying how to integrate its transit into the elevated express lanes planned for the northern arc of I-285.
About a dozen Central Perimeter residents gathered at the Hampton Inn in Sandy Springs Dec. 5 to offer ideas on how transit can capitalize on GDOT’s investment by enhancing regional connectivity and providing access.
MARTA is focusing on some way to implement bus rapid transit on the I-285 Express Lanes.
MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood said the study is a pivotal step to address
the region’s growing need for expanded and reliable transportation services.
“By tapping into the funded Express Lanes infrastructure investments already planned for I-285, we have an opportunity to provide efficient transit solutions that benefit residents and commuters alike,” she said.
By 2050, MARTA officials say the study area population is expected to grow 42 percent, with a similar jump in job growth over the same period.
Traffic congestion has long been and continues to plague Metro Atlanta.
GDOT’s current plan calls for constructing elevated express lanes —
PROVIDED
Halcyon will house a new Trader Joe’s neighborhood grocery store. The Forsyth County location will join seven other stores in Metro Atlanta.
Premium Alpharetta dog park shutters months after opening
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Off Leash, a unique dog park that integrates entertainment for pets and owners, has closed months after opening in downtown Alpharetta.
After debuting in July, Off Leash announced its closure effective Dec. 9.
“We would like to express gratitude to our dedicated staff, loyal members and everyone who played a role in the creation of Off Leash,” the company stated in an email.
The premium dog park featured spaces and upscale amenities for people and dogs, combining a restaurant and bar with dogfriendly patio and a 22,000-square-foot turfed field and 3,000-square-foot indoor park.
Off Leash had plans for another location at 240 East Trinity Place in Decatur in 2025.
Michael Erickson, a spokesperson for
the dog park, said Off Leash has stopped pursuing its plans for the second location.
Owned by Wendy Newman and Lonnie Cooper, the dog park required memberships or day passes for the use of its off-leash outdoor and indoor parks. Membership benefits included unlimited year-round or month-to-month access, food and nonalcoholic beverage discounts and invitations to exclusive gatherings.
The park also featured “dogtenders” to accommodate patrons and their pets.
In their announcement, Off Leash hinted at a potential reuse of their Alpharetta location.
“While this chapter is coming to an end, we are optimistic about the exciting opportunity to reimagine the use of the beautiful space at 142 South Main Street in Alpharetta,” according to the dog park statement. “Thank you for your support and for being a part of our journey. Stay tuned for what’s next …”
Off Leash, a newly-constructed dog park concept at the corner of South Main and Old Milton, has closed months after opening in downtown Alpharetta. Reps say they also pulled the plug on plans for a second location in Decatur.
10 Caesar salads worth trying in north metro
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Caesar salads are a beloved and ever-present on restaurant menus. They come from a variety of backgrounds, from Italian to American to French.
Here’s 10 of the best in Appen Media Group’s coverage area, in no particular order.
1. Trattoria one 41 — 9810 Medlock Bridge Road A, Johns Creek
Designed as an appetizer, this garlicky, delicious Caesar packs enough flavor for an entrée. Trattoria one 41’s pastas are great, but Caesar salad lovers may begin flocking to Johns Creek for the crunchy, creamy scrumptiousness. My only suggested improvement would be increasing the size.
2. Colletta — 900 Third St., Alpharetta (Avalon)
Colletta in Avalon shines as one of the best Italian restaurants in Alpharetta, and its Caesar salad exceeds expectations
as much as the great service. Colletta’s croutons and cheese are exquisite, leveling up already high-quality lettuce and dressing. Their crispy potatoes make an excellent side.
3. Salt Factory — 102 S. Main St., Alpharetta, Canton Street in Roswell
Anyone looking for a salad that’s not good but great need not look further than the Salt Factory. With several locations in the area, Salt Factory makes an incredible meal very accessible. The dressing is delicious, with perfectly seasoned chicken that makes it hard to resist the upcharge.
4. North Italia — 4600 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE, Dunwoody
North Italia delivers an elevated presentation for their take on a classic dish, backing up the look in the taste department. Their Caesar features breadcrumbs as an alternative to croutons, an appreciated touch that removes the awkwardness of getting a crouton on your fork.
5. Crust — 131 S. Main St., Alpharetta
If you want a delicious but classic Caesar, Crust is the place to go. Every aspect is exquisite, from the lettuce to the high-quality cheese to the dressing and the croutons. Each bite holds the perfect amount of tang to satisfy that Caesar craving. Crust’s garlic knots are phenomenal, too.
6. Marlow’s Tavern — 1317 Dunwoody Village Parkway, Dunwoody
A slightly unique take on a Caesar with mixed romaine lettuce and kale for a base. Highly suggest adding blackened chicken to add a kick that compliments the tang of the dressing. With so many locations, a great Caesar is rarely more than a 20-minute drive away in metro Atlanta.
A Caesar for the table — fair warning, don’t order as your appetizer with an entrée later unless you plan on taking it home: this salad could feed a whole family. The lettuce and cheese are high-quality, the dressing is delicious, Firebirds’ Caesar has every element for a great salad.
8. Salata — 2560 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta
When a business’s whole shtick is salads, the Caesar has to pack a punch. Salata’s Caesar lives up to the hype, a perfectly tangy and garlicky dressing with a healthy scoop of chicken. The more casual atmosphere is great for a lunch on the go or a quick sit-down.
9. Campania — 12635 Crabapple Road, Milton
Campania delivers a classic Caesar, with high-quality lettuce and a lighter dressing. An Italian take on a Caesar is not complete without first-rate parmesan, and Campania meets the mark on that aspect. Their Rosetta bread is a great complement to the meal.
10. La Madeleine — Perimeter Center
Last but not least, for a more onthe-go feel that deposits you in Paris in the France-themed restaurant, visit La Madeleine and try their Caesar. Watch as the salad is made in front of you and enjoy the meal to-go or sit down. High-quality ingredients meet great service here.
GOOGLE MAPS
Project:
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attitudes toward workplaces have meant workers desire offices near restaurants, retail and residences.
Alpharetta Community Development Director Kathi Cook said Brookside is a solid candidate for redevelopment because of its proximity to recreational resources and a university campus
“Brookside is also a good location to redevelop some parcels with residential due to the existing trails, 30-acre public park and the 42-acre Georgia State campus,” Cook said.
Portman Holdings plans to bring more than 55,000 square feet of
MARTA:
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commercial space, 65 townhomes and a five-story multifamily apartment complex and parking garage to a property near Old Milton Parkway at Brookside Parkway. The project was submitted to city officials Dec. 2 and comes weeks after the City Council approved a plan for high-density homes on about 10 acres at 3750 Brookside Parkway.
At a Nov. 18 meeting, City Councilman Donald Mitchell said the 3750 Brookside project marked the beginning of the area’s potential transformation.
“Folks don’t put offices in areas where their workers cannot live nearby,” Mitchell said. “This is very much a part of that plan and us being proactive “
50 to 60 feet above the existing general-purpose lanes. The two express lanes, running in each direction, may extend across the entire northern half of I-285 and connect into I-20.
With GDOT still searching for a private-sector financier, changing the scope of the express lanes remains a possibility.
The scope of the MARTA study includes the entirety of the I-285 Express Lanes project and looks to expand access using the elevated lanes between the H.E. Holmes station in west Atlanta and the Indian Creek station in unincorporated DeKalb County.
The stations are the eastern and western termini of MARTA’s rapid transit Blue Line. Because MARTA’s rail lines provide solid east-west and north-south public transportation, the transit study is focused on getting MARTA users to other places via bus rapid transit.
Natavis Eric Harris, project manager with MARTA, said his team is using models from the Federal Transit Administration to predict future demand for transit use.
Harris said he’s focused on getting MARTA service where it needs to be.
Regional transit connections – or bus stops – proposed along the northern arc of I-285 include Indian Creek, Doraville, Perimeter Center, Cumberland and H.E. Holmes, with potential other locations scattered across the east and west.
Most of the predicted bus transit involves people on the west and east sides of I-285 heading north to Central Perimeter.
MARTA Director of Federal Corridors & Hubs Marcus Arnold said construction of the project is contingent on the progress and timing of GDOT’s I-285 Express Lanes project. Without a private-sector partner, there’s no predicting when funding will be secured for MARTA’s transit.
That’s not stopping MARTA from planning potential stations along the bus corridor.
Tim Sorenson, vice president of transit and urban mobility at engineering firm CDM Smith, took attendees through access approaches at major stops like Perimeter Center.
Factors to be considered include walk time, direct connections to amenities and ride time.
With the roar of motorists along Ga. 400 at the Hampton Inn off Hammond Drive, the need for transportation diversification in north Metro Atlanta was apparent.
For those unable to attend in person, meeting materials can be viewed at www. i285expresslanestransit.com.
A plan calls for the construction of townhomes, commercial spaces and apartments on an almost 20-acre property on Old Milton Parkway at Brookside Parkway. The project is located in the Brookside office park, which has been identified as part of a priority area for redevelopment.
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/PROVIDED
A project map shows the Georgia Department of Transportation’s latest project scope for the I-285 Eastside and Westside projects. While conceptual designs are still in the works and no private-sector partner has been selected, MARTA is gathering feedback on preliminary plans for transit along the I-285 express lanes.
PHOTOS BY: CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED
A proposal submitted to city officials plans to bring residences and commercial space to a Brookside office park in Alpharetta.
Alpharetta withstands close match over Denmark, 67-64
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga — The Denmark Boys Basketball team fell to 0-8 Dec. 3 after dropping a tight game against Alpharetta, 67-64.
The Raiders were also fighting for their first win, coming off five straight losses.
In their meeting last year, Denmark took home the win in another close game, 80-78, and it looked like Alpharetta would suffer the same fate again until the Raiders posted a strong fourth quarter, outscoring the Danes by 6 points and riding the lead to the end.
Denmark junior Bryan Dean broke through for a game-high six 3-pointers and 24 total points, putting his playmaking to use with two assists as well. Getting his shots to fall took some time, but seeking out quality looks allowed Dean to hit his stride. Denmark senior Cole Gibree contributed 12 points, and sophomore Evan Jones put up 11 points, though it wasn’t enough to take down the Raiders.
Alpharetta sophomore CJ Terry was the Raiders’ biggest contributor, with a double-double – 18 points and 10 rebounds.
“We just wanted to execute tonight,” Terry said. “We’re on a five-game losing streak, but we’re doing okay. We’re a really good team, we’re just young.”
Terry checked out of the game with more than a double-double, adding four assists, three steals and three blocks.
With four of five Raider seniors out due to injury, Jad Bahhur was the only upperclassman starter playing with mostly sophomores and a few freshmen.
Alpharetta head coach Clay Crump reflected on their start to the season and what went well against Denmark.
“We’re gonna play hard,” he said. “We played four teams that are currently state ranked in our first five games. We’re just trying to keep moving to the next play. They shared the basketball well tonight, if something worked, they went back to it. Good communication on defense, it was great to finally get
Denmark junior Bryan Dean, foreground, feeds senior Christian Caldwell in the paint at Alpharetta High School Dec. 3. The Raiders held Caldwell to 10 points, drawing gravity away from the 3-point line and allowing Dean to work outside the arc for a game-high 24 points and six 3-pointers.
a win tonight.”
The Raiders played strong defense, collecting five blocks and 14 team steals, and putting the clamps on one of Denmark’s top scorers, senior Christian Caldwell.
Alpharetta’s frontcourt of Terry and freshmen George Bixby and Miles Cromwell (two steals apiece) kept Caldwell quiet offensively, holding him to 10
points, but they couldn’t keep him away from a monstrous rebounding performance. Caldwell ended the game with 13 rebounds.
Jad and Adam Bahhur made up a strong backcourt for the Raiders. Jad contributed eight points, three assists and four steals, while Adam tallied 12 points, five rebounds (four offensive), four deflections and two steals.
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Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.
He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.
Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 22 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.
Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.
Great news in Pediatric Melanoma
to you by –
Isn’t it wonderful to hear that you are making a difference? Well, you are! All that hard work that you put in with children or grandchildren getting them to protect themselves from the Sun and wear sunscreen is making a difference!
A recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) of more than 76,000 pediatric melanomas confirmed a decline in melanoma incidence over the last ten years in children ages five and older. That decrease in melanoma is likely due to the measures you and your family members have taken during those years and during the prior ten to fifteen years when you worked so hard to protect them from the Sun. And it is hard work. I have personally braved and endured myself. We all know what it’s like: The child in question seems to morph into a wet fish wriggling out of your grasp. Your slippery sunscreen hands don’t make it any easier! The rascal gets free, and you chase him or her down. Your drink gets knocked over. Sand gets on chairs, in bags and in other places you don’t want sand to get. It’s a task somewhere between roping a calf and getting a cat to take a bath. Grueling, grasping, groaning, finally it’s complete! The child may go and play. And in an hour and a half, you get to repeat the process all over again!
We know sun safety isn’t easy. What dermatologists ask of parents and grandparents is not a simple task. Is it really all worth it?
Yes! The results are in, and they are inspiring. This very encouraging study in the JAAD strongly suggests that all our hard work is paying off.
For children ages 10-14, there was a greater than 30% drop in melanoma between 2002 and 2020.
For children ages 5-9, there was a greater than 60% drop in melanoma between 2014 and 2020.
Interestingly, a small increase in pediatric melanoma cases for children ages four and younger supports that what we are doing is making a difference. Older children who develop melanoma are much
more likely to have developed skin cancer from sunburns and sun exposure. Babies and children under 4 years old who develop melanoma are NOT likely to have developed melanoma from sun exposure. (But they still need to be protected from the Sun). Instead, genetics, a chance unlucky mutation or non-sun related environmental factors are more likely to be responsible for melanoma in the extremely young. They simply haven’t had much time to be damaged by the Sun. The fact that melanoma in those ages four and under slightly increased but melanoma in those five and older dramatically decreased makes the claim even more credible that our efforts at sun protection are working.
Good news in pediatric melanoma is likely great news for these individuals’ entire lives. Our bodies have proteins called “mismatch repair enzymes” whose job it is to fix DNA that has been damaged by ultraviolet rays from the Sun. Unfortunately, these enzymes don’t do a perfect job, and many mutations in our DNA are with us for life. Our entire lives, these mutations increase the chance that we develop skin cancer. Dermatologists have tools including prescription creams and in office treatments that kill pre-cancers and reduce one’s sun damage, but some of the Sun damage from childhood and adulthood is always with us. The fact that pediatric melanoma has plummeted in the last ten years gives us great hope that these same individuals will develop far fewer cancers as adults as well.
When you protect your loved one as a child, you are likely helping protect him or her for life.
The next time you wonder, “is it worth it?...Should I really use that sunscreen, that UPF 50 sun shirt or take on the herculean task of wrangling a kiddo channeling his or her inner feral cat?,” the answer is YES. You are making a difference. And we only see these wonderful results at the population level in a published study because of many, many daily actions at the individual level – through the genuine care and love of many, many parents and grandparents who love their family and showed it through their actions. Keep up the great work!
Dr. Brent Taylor
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Brought
Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
How to strengthen your relationship during the holidays
Brought to you by - Summit Counseling Center
The holidays bring all the joyful chaos: crowded schedules, too much food, and family members giving unsolicited advice. With all this added pressure, it’s easy to feel like you and your partner are more “survival teammates” than “seasoned soulmates.” But here’s the good news—these holiday challenges can be opportunities to grow closer, connect, and yes, even have some fun together. Here are four practical ways to help strengthen your relationship this holiday season.
1. Make communication a (quick and daily) habit
It’s the season of merry madness, and in the rush, it’s easy to let communication slip. A few minutes to connect each day can make a huge difference. Think of this as your “holiday huddle”—a quick check-in where you both take turns sharing a high and a low from the day. Keep it light, and maybe even trade a funny story from the day. One great question I have couples I work with ask is, “What is one thing I’ve said or done recently that let you know I love you (or care about you, support you, etc.)?” Instead of waiting for holiday stress to hit the boiling point, a quick check-in each day helps keep each other in the loop and on the same team. It’s like a secret weapon to dodge any “You never told me about that!” drama.
2. Have each other’s back with family boundaries
Family gatherings during the holidays bring all the love, and often, all the opinions. Your partner might want to spend hours with family; you might need more breaks. Or maybe you have to make an appearance at three different houses on the same day. Discuss ahead of time what’s realistic and what isn’t.
I also recommend couples define what is a core need for each person, and then figure out how to compromise on the small stuff while supporting each other’s core need. Doing so may mean supporting each other’s “hard limits.” If Aunt Susan wants to know why you’re not married yet (or if you’re going to have kids, or what you really think about the election), some good-natured tag-teaming and interference running that is planned out ahead of time can work wonders.
3. Keep your expectations low but your spirits high
Even at the “most wonderful time of year,” things go wrong. It’s practically tradition. Events run late, flights get delayed, and maybe the turkey burns. Embrace a sense of humor, roll with the punches, and focus on what actually matters. Instead of stressing over and judging every detail, mindfully commit
to seeing each moment for what it is. If something doesn’t go to plan, try to laugh about it. A year from now, will it really matter, or will you have a great story to tell? A sense of humor and a touch of gratitude can take the edge off holiday frustrations and keep your spirits high, even when the lights are a little too bright and the family a little too loud.
4. Make some “us time” nonnegotiable
Finally, in all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to let quality time slip. Make it a rule to steal away at least a little time, just the two of you—even if it’s just a 15-minute walk or a coffee date away from the action. It’s your chance to reconnect, decompress, and remind each other why you’re partners in the first place. These little check-ins can be as simple as a quiet breakfast together or even a quick getaway to a favorite
spot nearby. Whatever it is, make it about unwinding and recharging as a couple.
The holidays can bring a lot of cheer—and a fair share of tension. These tips can help you and your significant other turn common challenges into connecting opportunities. Keep the humor going, support each other, and make time to enjoy the season together. Cheers to a season filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few more inside jokes that’ll keep you both smiling into the new year!
If you would like more tools to deal with family stress, or to improve the quality of your relationship, reach out to our amazing admin team at www. summitcounseling.org or 678-893-5300 to schedule a free consultation call with myself or any of our expertly trained clinicians.
Hear Your Best for The Holidays.
Schedule
Comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical care
Brought to you byDr. Arthur Grigorian, neurosurgeon at Wellstar
The neurosurgery program at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center has grown significantly in recent years, adding three neurosurgeons and one interventional neurologist, as well as three physician assistants and one nurse practitioner over the past six years. We’ve been able to build one of the most comprehensive neuro care programs in the Atlanta area.
Wellstar North Fulton is also a Level II Trauma Center and Joint Commission
Comprehensive Stroke Center—the highest level of stroke treatment recognized.
Our team treats the most complex pathologies of the spine, including trauma and degenerative disease, with expert care. Physicians can address concerns including herniated discs, stenosis, radiculopathy and other chronic or acute problems of the spine.
The neurosurgeons, neurocritical care physicians and neurologists at Wellstar North Fulton work together to perform the most complex neuro
care procedures, including aneurysm clipping and coiling, embolizations and resections of arterio-venous malformations of the brain and spine, surgical bypasses for patients with a chronic cerebral ischemia or moyamoya disease, and treatment of carotid artery diseases. Our hybrid neurovascular suite is equipped with innovative bi-plane technology. This allows neurosurgeons to view highly detailed images of brain vessels, so we can customize treatments for each patient in real-time.
Before we expanded our neurological care at Wellstar North Fulton, patients had to travel either to different healthcare facilities or outside the state to receive this kind of care.
In addition, Wellstar North Fulton opened a state-of-the-art oncology center last year. The cancer center houses CyberKnife technology and opens a new horizon for treatment of complex oncological problems, including tumors of the brain or spinal cord.
To learn more about care at Wellstar North Fulton, visit wellstar. org/northfulton. Call (770) 664-9600 to schedule an appointment with a neurosurgeon in Roswell.
GRIGORIAN
Elisa Bobbitt, AuD
A traditional Japanese custom and its reflections in modern dentistry
Brought to you by - Destinee Hood, DMD, Roswell Dental Care
Ohaguro, the practice of blackening one’s teeth, holds a significant place in Japanese cultural history. Historically, ohaguro was a symbol of beauty, status, and marital eligibility. While the tradition has faded over time, its impact is still visible in various cultural remnants and even resonates in modern dentistry. This article explores the roots of ohaguro and delves into its connection with contemporary dental practices.
• Crowns and Bridges in a few days
• Porcelain Veneers
• Tooth Colored Composite Fillings
• Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity
• Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients
• Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients
• Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation)
• Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments
• Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis
• Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos
• Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions!
• Electronic Records
• Accept and File
• Implants
• Root Canals
• Extractions
• Spa-like Relaxing Atmosphere
• Custom Baked Cookies Daily
• FREE Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation
• Facial Aesthetic Enhancements including BOTOX and Dermal Fillers
Ohaguro dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), where it was initially practiced by the aristocracy and later adopted by commoners. The custom involved blackening the teeth using a solution made from iron filings and vinegar, resulting in a distinctive lacquered appearance. Ohaguro was particularly prevalent among married women, symbolizing their commitment and marital status.
As Japan modernized during the Meiji era (1868-1912), ohaguro gradually lost its significance. Influences from the Western world, changes in fashion, and evolving societal norms contributed to the decline of this centuries-old tradition. By the end of the Meiji era, ohaguro was largely abandoned, although some elderly individuals continued the practice well into the 20th century.
Ohaguro’s Influence on Modern Dentistry:
While ohaguro itself may be a relic of the past, its impact on modern dentistry is noteworthy. The quest for aesthetically pleasing smiles has always been a constant, and this is where the historical custom finds resonance in contemporary dental practices.
1. Teeth Whitening Technologies:
The desire for whiter teeth in modern society is the antithesis of ohaguro. Teeth whitening procedures, ranging from over-the-counter products to professional treatments offered by dentists, reflect society’s current beauty standards. These treatments use safe and effective methods to remove stains and discoloration, enhancing the natural whiteness of teeth.
2. Orthodontics and Cosmetic Dentistry: Ohaguro was not only about color but also about the shape and arrangement of teeth. In modern dentistry, orthodontic treatments, such as braces and clear aligners, address issues related to tooth alignment and structure. Cosmetic dentistry procedures, like veneers, bonding, and contouring,
allow individuals to achieve the perfect smile they desire.
3. Dental Implants and Prosthetics: For those who have lost teeth due to various reasons, dental implants and prosthetics provide functional and aesthetic solutions. These technologies mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, helping individuals regain confidence in their smiles.
Ohaguro may be a thing of the past, but its influence on modern dentistry is undeniable. From a symbol of status and beauty to a relic of history, ohaguro has evolved, leaving a lasting impression on Japan’s cultural landscape. Today, as advancements in dentistry continue to flourish, individuals have a range of options to achieve healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smiles— embracing a new era that values the preservation and enhancement of natural dental beauty.
Roswell Dental Care is nominated to win “BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta by Appen Newspaper for the 8th year. We’ve been serving patients in the area for over 40 years.
As your cosmetic dentists, Drs. Hood, Remaley, and Urvi give your comfort and trust top priority. We assure you feel confident in any dental solution before beginning treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE conscious sedation, including nitrous oxide. Rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding. Take the first step in feeling great about your smile. Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY smile makeover consultation by calling 770-998-6736.
Dr. David Remaley
Destinee Hood
Your youthful smile
1. Avoid staining: Avoid tobacco and limit stain causing and enamel eroding acidic foods and drinks.
In order to understand a youthful smile, one needs to know the look of aging teeth. An aging smile can occur as a person gets older, however, they can be influenced by various factors such as oral habits, lifestyle choices, and dental hygiene care…at any age!
Some of the most common features of an aging smile are:
1. Teeth yellowing: Over time, and many coffee/tea, chocolate, wine and tobacco indulgences later, teeth can lose their natural brightness and present more yellow.
2. Tooth wear and tear: Years of grinding, taking out one’s stress on one’s teeth, and misaligned teeth can contribute to excessive and uneven tooth wear and flatter and shorter surfaces.
3. Gum recession: gum recession exposes the darker root surfaces and makes teeth look longer and less esthetic.
4. Tooth loss: missing teeth can impact the appearance of one’s smile and contribute to decreased lip and cheek support and fullness causing facial changes.
5. Teeth crowding: As we age our teeth have a tendency to shift in a forward direction, causing the front teeth to become more crowded.
To maintain a youthful smile here are a few tips:
2. Whitening: professional dental whitening can remove most stains and bring back the luster and brightness to one’s teeth.
3. Resin bonding: Tooth colored fillings do a beautiful job of masking exposed root surfaces and restoring the beautiful shape of the teeth, and thus enhance one’s smile.
4. Tooth replacement: In today’s world, replacing a tooth with implant therapy is the gold standard of dentistry and has long lasting benefits in maintaining the longevity of one’s dentition.
5. Orthodontics: Crooked and misaligned teeth can be corrected using braces or aligners and immediately restore the “wellness” of the smile. It is amazing what a straight smile does to restore youthfulness and confidence! 6. Occlusal guard: A bite guard can shield the teeth from the harmful effects of clenching and grinding.
Maintaining a youthful smile is a lifelong commitment to YOURSELF! Regularly consulting with a good dentist who is committed to your optimal dental health and smile will help ensure personalized advice and appropriate care and methods keep your smile healthy and youthful.
Call us for a free consultation (upon mention of this article) on how we can help you rejuvenate your smile!
Brought to you by – North Fulton Smiles
ISTOCK
What do weight loss drugs mean for your fertility journey?
HIPP
Brought to you byEmory Reproductive Center
In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding how diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fertility are connected. Recently, medications with the generic names of semaglutide, tirzepatide and dulaglutide, which help lower blood pressure, improve glucose control and promote weight loss, are being explored to understand their risks and benefits for women’s reproductive health. Dr. Heather Hipp, an Associate Professor in the Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics and a physician with the Emory Reproductive Center, shares her thoughts on this topic and how it might affect those beginning their fertility journey.
Why weight loss can help with fertility
Recent studies1 have shown that
weight loss, often achieved through these medications, can have a positive impact on fertility in women with diabetes or PCOS. Obesity can cause women not to ovulate, which results in irregular menstrual cycles, and can also affect egg health. Losing weight can improve overall health, reduce risks of insulin resistance and pre-diabetes, and help women with PCOS regain regular ovulation cycles and increased fertility. Dr. Hipp notes, “Improvement in regular ovulation can often result in a successful pregnancy outcome for women with PCOS.”
However, these benefits are not universal. Research2 has shown that women within a healthy weight range have a higher success rate with in vitro fertilization—commonly called IVF— compared to obese women, highlighting the importance of weight management for better fertility outcomes.
What should you consider before taking weight loss drugs?
While there are benefits to these medications, there are important considerations before becoming
pregnant. There’s limited data on their use during pregnancy, and some researchers are concerned about the possible effects on a fetus’s weight and bone formation. Some studies suggest weight loss drugs may increase the chance of a miscarriage. One recent study did not find a higher risk of major birth defects in women who took these medications in early pregnancy compared to a group of women with diabetes who did not take the medications. However, it is recommended to stop taking them at least two months before pregnancy.
Dr. Hipp’s recommendations:
Dr. Hipp advises women with diabetes or PCOS planning for pregnancy and considering these medications to:
• Consult with your primary care provider, OBGYN or a weight loss specialist to evaluate if weight loss could benefit their treatment plan and explore treatment options.
• Consider how these medications fit into broader pregnancy planning.
• Stop taking these medications
two months before trying to conceive to reduce any potential risks during pregnancy.
We welcome you
At the Emory Reproductive Center, comprehensive support is offered to women managing diabetes or PCOS and fertility concerns. Our team provides personalized treatment plans for a wide range of issues that affect reproductive health.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 404-778-3401 to meet with a fertility specialist at the Emory Reproductive Center at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. We understand that every situation is unique, and we tailor your care to your specific needs and goals.
2American Society for Reproductive Medicine https://www.asrm.org/practiceguidance/practice-committee-documents/ obesity-and-reproduction-a-committeeopinion-2021/
This “ you’re gonna be a big sister ” moment made possible by Emory Women’s Center.
PRENATAL CARE
The di erence? Emory Women’s Center at Johns Creek uses research and innovation in health to provide exceptional care, close to home. From the first prenatal appointment to delivering your precious bundle, our trusted team is here to listen to you and guide you along the way.
Visit emoryhealthcare.org/women to schedule an appointment.
Cancer fighting drugs in your medicine cabinet
When we think of cancer treatments, we typically think of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. But did you know that you might already have some cancer-fighting drugs in your medicine cabinet at home which complement these treatments very well?
It turns out that many drugs which are approved for non-cancer indications have been found in subsequent research to have an anticancer effect. The most wellknown of these is the diabetes drug metformin. In addition to its blood sugar lowering effects, metformin has
been
kill
cells, a key in cancer’s spread.
The cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins have also been found to have an anticancer effect; by affecting the way cancer cells use fat and carbohydrates for fuel. Even baby aspirin, taken by millions of Americans each day for its cardiovascular benefits, has anticancer activity by reducing inflammation.
Since these medications are not FDA approved to treat cancer, their use is considered “off-label.” Interestingly, there are now dozens of medications we can repurpose to treat cancer better and more thoroughly. I routinely include these repurposed medications as part of my integrative cancer treatment protocols.
Have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!
Brought to you byJonathan Stegall, MD
also
shown to
cancer stem
STEGALL
ISTOCK
I’m dreaming of a White Christmas…
Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health
“Just like the ones I used to know.” I love the sound of Bing Crosby singing White Christmas. It’s getting colder and I’m getting excited for the holidays this year. I look forward to all of it. The lights, the decorations, the cookies, the food, the drinks, the special times with those you love. I could go on and on.
During the holidays, everyone is happy and smiling and thankful. An important part of that is a healthy, white smile. Your dentist can help you get a healthy, white smile for the holidays. Let’s talk about the best ways to get your smile as white as possible.
The first step is making sure that your teeth are clean. And I do mean professionally cleaned. Over time, your teeth build up surface stains and tartar. This needs to be removed with the special instruments that your dental hygienist uses. Afterwards, your gums will be healthier, and you won’t have anything in the way of getting your teeth as white as possible. You can’t whiten tartar and stains. You must remove them. You can’t get the white teeth you want with this stuff in the way.
There are three ways to whiten your teeth: Whitening strips, Whitening trays, and Professional Whitening. Whitening strips are the quickest, easiest way to whiten your teeth. These are plastic strips with whitening gel on them. After cleaning your teeth, you place the whitening strips on your front teeth and adapt it as well as possible to your teeth. Whitening trays are custom trays for placing the whitening gel precisely
on your teeth. Your dentist can make these for you and provide you with strong, prescription strength whiten gel for you to whiten your teeth with a series of home treatments. The best and fastest way to whiten your teeth is Professional Whitening at a dental office. In about an hour, your dentist can place a protective barrier on your gums and place powerful whitening gel on your teeth to get your teeth super white. People love this option because your teeth are as white as they can get in about an hour and you do not have to do multiple treatments at home.
Everyone has a biologic limit to how white they can get their teeth with these whitening procedures. Porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding can get your
smile even whiter and more perfect. Modern dentistry gives you so many options to improve your smile with the advances in materials and technology. Tooth Whitening removes years of stain and discoloration. Cosmetic recontouring is a simple process of re-shaping your teeth to make them look more attractive, healthier, and straighter. Clear, nearly Invisible Aligners can straighten your teeth quickly and easily without metal braces. Cosmetic Bonding repairs chips and cracks to make your teeth look beautiful, natural, and vibrant again. Porcelain Veneers is like adding new enamel to your teeth to make them whiter, straighter, and change the shape to the perfect length and proportions.
“May your days be merry and bright. And may all your Christmases be white.”
Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. You will realize immediate results with non-invasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile enhancing options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. Dr. Bradley Hepler has spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that they provide each patient with the perfect solution to their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our great pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.
ADOBE STOCK
CITY OF ALPHARETTA
ANNUAL REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 TRANSPORTATION SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX (TSPLOST-I)
This report provides information on the city’s TSPLOST-I projects for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. For detailed project information, please visit Fulton County’s interactive TSPLOST Capital Project Dashboard at https://tsplost.fultoncountyga.gov/projects.
As of June 30, 2024, the City of Alpharetta had $31.6 million in unexpended TSPLOST-I proceeds. These unexpended proceeds coupled with forecasted investment earnings will fund the open contracts and estimated costs of the projects identified above. One project was completed during the fiscal year ending June 30,2024 (AlphaLoop Improvements - Old Milton Parkway to Northwinds Parkway).
Revenue forecasts contained within the TSPLOST-I Intergovernmental Agreement were based on three tiers: (1) 85% of forecasted TSPLOST-I collections (Tier 1); 100% of forecasted TSPLOST-I collections (Tiers 1-2); and 115% of forecasted TSPLOST-I collections (Tiers 1-3). TSPLOST-I collections (not including interest earnings) ended on March 31, 2022, and totaled 92% of the original revenue forecast for Tiers 1-2 (i.e., the 100% forecast).
Reduced TSPLOST-I collections necessitated project adjustments and reprioritizations that can be categorized as follows: (1) Projects determined not feasible (those projects excluding a current estimate cost); (2) Projects placed on hold given funding constraints (e.g. Haynes Bridge Rd Capacity Improvements, Academy St Operational and Pedestrian/Bicycle Improvements, etc.); and (3) Projects that underwent scope revisions including increases/decreases in cost estimates (Windward Pkwy Business District/Union Hill Rd Capacity Improvements, Kimball Bridge Rd Operational and Pedestrian/Bicycle Improvements, McGinnis Ferry Rd Capacity Improvements, Webb Bridge Rd Operational and Pedestrian/Bicycle Improvements, GA400 Bridge Aesthetics, Encore Greenway Gateway Park, AlphaLoop, etc.).
In today’s market, let’s stop ‘Living in the Past’
D.C. AIKEN Guest Columnist dcaiken.com
My inspiration for this week’s article came from Jethro Tull’s 1972 hit, “Living in the Past.” It seems that we cannot let go of the 2020-2022 timeframe when we had home prices rising at 10-20 percent per year in some areas, the “multiple bid” wars, rates below 4 percent, sellers paying nothing toward closing cost and or points, no one was accepting contingency offers, and where houses were only on the market for 10 days or less. Truly the definition of a “sellers” market.
I have been doing this for 40 years now, and that period was truly an anomaly. The facts are as follows. As we enter 2025, mortgage rates have averaged, over the past 50 years, slightly over 7 percent... funny…we are just below that level now. The average home price in Metro Atlanta has fallen .9 percent on a year-overyear basis. Seller-paid closing costs are on the rise, and some builders are now paying over $25,000 toward cost in some areas. Houses are now on the market in Metro Atlanta for over 55 days, compared to 32 days last year at this time on average. Sellers are beginning to accept “contingency” offers, and home inspectors continue to be one of the biggest “deal killers” out there (will save this topic for another article).
Buyers, however, are still being told it is a very competitive market by agents due to “supply” issues. The data I have just shown would tell a totally different story. With houses being on the market for almost two months and rising, each month the “competitive” market seems to be more of a punchline than fact. The buyers I am seeing getting new contracts today are buying correctly priced homes with some help, not in all cases but some, from the seller with closing cost, and the sellers are also helping on some inspection issues. Rates are slightly below historical averages, and anyone waiting until rates to get below 5 percent will most likely have a long wait. The housing market has done well, in the past, with the combination of things I am now seeing once again. The difference in a principal and interest
Market:
Continued from Page 24
payment on a $500,000 loan with a 30year rate of 7 percent vs. 6 percent is about $330 per month. If the seller is now paying $10,000 toward cost, which they were not doing when we were at 6 percent, you save $10,000 out of pocket and would make your break-even point at the higher rate in almost 2.5 years. If you refinance inside 2.5 years (and I think that will happen) you saved money and got the home of your dreams for less than you would have when rates were 6 percent. Truly simple math.
The 2020-2022 boom for real estate is in the past, and looking for that to happen again could very well be “gone with the wind.” We are back to a more “normal” market, and I would even say we have now switched to a “buyers” market. We simply need to forget what things were like several years ago and embrace the market we are in which, based on my calculations, is not that bad. It is a great time buy a home!
D.C. Aiken is vice president, producing production manager for BankSouth Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.
The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of BankSouth Mortgage or its affiliates.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA
ANNUAL REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 TRANSPORTATION SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX (TSPLOST-II)
This report provides information on the city’s TSPLOST-II projects for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. For detailed project information, please visit Fulton County’s interactive TSPLOST Capital Project Dashboard at https://tsplost.fultoncountyga.gov/projects.
As of June 30, 2024, the City of Alpharetta had $15.6 million in unexpended TSPLOST-II proceeds. These unexpended proceeds coupled with forecasted TSPLOST-II collections and investment earnings will fund the open contracts and estimated costs of the Tier-1 projects identified above in addition to select Tier-2 projects (e.g. Kimball Bridge Rd Widening). Remaining Tier 2-3 projects will be funded to the extent that revenue collections and/or existing project reprioritizations allow. Two projects were completed during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024: Crosswalk Improvements (from Parking Deck to north side of Milton Avenue); and AlphaLoop Improvements (Old Milton Parkway to Northwinds Parkway).
Revenue forecasts contained within the TSPLOST-II Intergovernmental Agreement are based on three tiers: (1) 85% of forecasted TSPLOST-II collections (Tier 1); 100% of forecasted TSPLOST-II collections (Tiers 1-2); and 115% of forecasted TSPLOST-II collections (Tiers 1-3). TSPLOST-II collections started in April 2022 and are trending at 109% of the original revenue forecasts.
Projects determined not feasible are those listed above that exclude a current estimate cost (e.g. Pedestrian Tunnel Under Haynes Bridge Road at GA 400).
Sgt. Maj. Paul Hershey – a U.S. Marine, Part 2
In an earlier column I wrote about Sergeant Major Paul Hershey’s Vietnam experiences. In this column I will discuss some of the events in his career after Vietnam.
Following the closure of the American Embassy in late 1974 and his assignment as a trainer of Marines in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Japan and the rescue of the crew of the Mayaguez, Hershey left Vietnam for good in 1976 and went to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendelton in California. There, he again served as an instructor.
In 1978, he was promoted to first sergeant and in 1979 was selected for the Marine Corps Advanced Degree Program (ADP). He obtained a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Southern California.
At end of 1981, Hershey was assigned to train a Marine Corps FAST company (Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team) in Rota, Spain. FAST is a quick reaction force that can be deployed as rapidly as needed.
He returned to Camp Pendelton in 1982 to be sergeant major of Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13), MAG-70 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 (VMFA-121). These elite units provide close air support for ground troops, reconnaissance and logistical support in operations such as the defense of Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War. Hershey recalls joint exercises in Turkey working with multinational forces.
He became the sergeant major of the 5th Marine Regiment at Camp Pendelton and the most decorated regiment in the Marine Corps. Later, he became sergeant major of the 1st Marine Division, the oldest and largest Marine division with 20,000 men and women, also headquartered at Camp Pendelton.
In August 1990, Hershey was assigned to Saudi Arabia for Desert Shield when the U.S. built up forces and defended Saudi Arabia in a short precursor to Desert Storm. Ground operations started in February 1991 after the Army and more Marines arrived. The 1st Marine Division liberated Kuwait City, and the Iraqis set fire to the oil fields.
“You could not see your hand in from of your face due to the air
U.S. Marine Corps recruits march in formation at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendelton, California. Sgt. Maj. Paul Hershey spent approximately nine years off and on at Camp Pendelton during his career with the Marine Corps.
pollution from the fires,” Hershey says, adding that the Marines were the only ones there and ready to fight at the beginning of Desert Storm because they had prepositioned ships and supplies to last for six months.
At the end of his assignment in the Middle East in May,1991, Hershey was among the armed forces that boarded ships for their return home. On the way, they were diverted to Bangladesh after a powerful tropical cyclone caused a 20-foot storm surge which killed 140,000 people and made up to 10 million people homeless. Under Operation Sea Angel, Marine forces delivered 340 metric tons of food per day and provided 289 medical teams over a period of six weeks.
After returning to Camp Pendleton
Beginning in February 1991, during the latter stages of the Gulf War, Iraqi forces were withdrawing from Kuwait. As they retreated, they set fire to more than 750 Kuwaiti oil fields. The fires lasted for several months. The first fires were extinguished in April. The last well was capped in November 1991. Sgt. Maj. Hershey says the smoke was so thick that you could not see your hand in front of your face.
MASTER SGT KIT THOMPSON/PROVIDED
Hershey was reassigned to Camp Smith Hawaii. He was there when the Marines led relief efforts to combat starvation in Somalia under Operation Provide Relief. The Marines served as the command element that supervised the relief efforts.
In Hawaii, Hershey’s final assignment in 1992 was as sergeant major, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific (FMFPAC), the largest maritime landing force in the world, where he was responsible for thousands of Marines for two years. He oversaw Marine operations throughout the Pacific before retiring in 1994.
Among his fascinating postVietnam assignments was a tour at the Fort Sherman Jungle Operations Training Center on the Caribbean side of Panama adjacent to the Panama
Canal. As sergeant major of the 5th Marine Regiment at that time, he took part in the successful effort to capture former Panamanian president Manuel Noriega who was wanted by the United States for trafficking in drugs. Noriega later died in prison.
Hershey was in the Marine Corps barracks in Beirut in 1983 when a terrorist bombing killed 220 Marines, 18 sailors and three soldiers.
While in Hawaii, he started a program called Last Look to bring missing MIAs back home to the United States for burial and to provide closure for their families. Last Look continues to this day.
In the early 1990s, Hershey spent two months doing drug interdiction on the Mexican border. He led a battalion that operated along the Rio Grande from Presidio, to El Paso, to Arizona.
Hershey has returned to Vietnam four times since the war. He likes to visit museums and is amazed at the beauty of the country and its sense of freedom and commerce. He is going back again in March 2025.
When asked what we have learned from Vietnam and Desert Storm, Hershey said, “Our military is the crux of our freedom. Their strength and dedication to duty are what makes our freedom possible.”
Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.
BOB MEYERS Columnist
SGTMAJ HERSHEY
This portrait of Sergeant Major Paul Hershey was taken in 1992 following his tour in Vietnam when he was serving in Hawaii.
LACE CPL. JANELL ALVAREZ/MARINE CORPS
OPINION
Transform your yard with landscape lighting
Gardening enthusiasts know that the true magic of a garden is not confined to the daylight hours. With the right landscape lighting, you can extend the allure of your garden into the night, creating a captivating and inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed even after the sun sets. Whether you’re looking to create a sense of warmth and welcome, accentuate specific features, provide practical illumination or add an enchanting ambiance, landscape lighting can be a game-changer.
I’ve always loved the way landscape lighting can transform outdoor space at night from ordinary to extraordinary. But it wasn’t until recently that I decided to update my own landscape lighting.
I was tired of the old, outdated fixtures that I had, and I wanted something that would create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere in my backyard. I also wanted something that was energy-efficient and easy to maintain.
I worked with a landscape lighting professional to design a system that would meet my needs and budget. We installed a variety of fixtures, including path lights, uplights, and downlights. The path lights provide enough light to safely walk around my yard at night, the uplights highlight my trees and shrubs, and the downlights create a soft glow in my garden.
I decided to embrace smart technology, allowing me to effortlessly schedule the lights with my new wireless Kasa outdoor lighting smart plug. With a few taps on my smartphone, I can set schedule the lights to turn on and off at the appropriate time as dusk and dawn change with the seasons. No more having to manually adjust the timer pins!
I’m so happy with the way my new landscape lighting turned out. It’s made my backyard a much more enjoyable place to spend time, both day and night.
If you’re considering updating your landscape lighting, I encourage you to take the leap — it might just illuminate a world of wonder you never knew existed.
Here are a few tips for choosing and installing or updating landscape lighting:
• Consider your needs. What do you want your landscape lighting to do? Do you want to create a safe path to your front door? Highlight your garden features? Or create a relaxing atmosphere for entertainment?
Backyard landscape lighting can add beauty and safety to your property.
• Choose the right type of lights. There are many different types of landscape lights available, including path lights, uplights, downlights, spotlights, floodlights and water feature lights. Each type of light has its own purpose. Path lights are for illuminating pathways and stairs with subtle, low-level lighting to prevent accidents and guide guests through your garden, enhancing both safety and the overall charm; uplights can be used to showcase tall trees, sculptures or architectural elements; downlights are for creating a soft glow; spotlights are for highlighting specific features; floodlights are used to illuminate a large area, such as a patio or deck; and water feature lights are used to create a beautiful and relaxing ambiance around a pond, fountain, or waterfall. Landscape lights come in a variety of colors and styles to match your personal taste.
• Consider the size of your yard. The size of your yard will determine how many lights you need. You’ll also need to decide how much light you want. Too much light can be harsh and overwhelming, while too little light won’t be effective.
• Plan your layout. Once you know what type of lights you want and how many you need, you can start planning your layout. It’s important to place the
About the author
This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Lee Tanenbaum, a master gardener since 2011 and currently a Fulton County Master Gardener alum. 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.
lights so that they create a well-lit path and highlight the features you want to show off.
• Be mindful of your neighbors. Don’t install lights that are too bright or that shine into your neighbors’ yards.
• Consider your budget: Landscape lights can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
• Hire a professional. If you’re not comfortable installing landscape lighting yourself, hire a professional. A professional will be able to help you choose the right lights and install them properly.
Have fun with it! Landscape lighting can be a great way to express your personal style and add beauty and safety to your yard. With a little planning and effort, you can create a
beautiful and inviting outdoor space with landscape lighting that you’ll love for years to come. By carefully considering the placement, type, and purpose of your lights, you can transform your garden into a mesmerizing nocturnal oasis that will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Happy gardening, day and night!
North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at: https://appenmedia. com/opinion/columists/garden buzz/. LEE TANENBAUM/PROVIDED
LEE TANENBAUM Guest Columnist
100 most influential people
RAY APPEN
Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
Here’s another batch of names in my continuing series exploring the most influential people and topics in history.
No. 51: “Alternative Facts” & George Orwell Thank you, Kelly Ann Conway, for “alternative facts.” (her trivia-question claimto-fame). We all know that a fact is a fact, like 1 + 1 = 2, so there cannot be “alternative facts.” 1 + 1 can only equal 2 - nothing else. That is, until it does.
“Alternative facts” have increasingly displaced actual facts in our world. One could write thousands and thousands of words on this, but I won’t. I will let George Orwell do it for me in 24 words: “Who controls the past controls the future.” And: “If you want a vision of the future (where the past is re-written and is controlled by things like alternative facts and bad actors) imagine a boot stepping on a human face – forever.” Both quotes are from Orwell’s “1984,” a book that everyone should reread or read for the first time.
Of note, “1984,” written in 1949, was banned in the Soviet Union and in Cuba and is still subject to censorship initiatives in the United States periodically for various reasons. The truth matters. Some would say, nothing matters more, although many appear to believe it matters not at all. Orwell believed that there can only be freedom if there is truth. Buckle up.
No. 52: Bob’s Barricades
So, you know those orange cones that line the highways and roads whenever there is construction? Well, if you look closely, most of them are owned by Bob, of Bob’s Barricades, one of the largest providers in the world. Can anyone guess exactly how many of those cones and barricades Bob owns across the United States? That is a question I have wondered about for years and one I have yet been able to answer, even with AI and Google. And my calls into Bob have gone unanswered.
Bob’s Barricades is included on the list because he symbolically represents the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), which has had as much if not more impact on our lives as anything else I can think of.
The department’s 2024 budget of $145.3 billion dollars is used for “improving infrastructure, safety, and equity, while also protecting the climate and addressing other transportation priorities,” according to Google’s AI.
Of note, the official DOT website states that the DOT actually has $293.21 billion in “budgetary resources” available for 2024. Can we say “confusing?” For context, the U.S. Defense Department budget for 2024 was $824.3 billion, so DOT’s budget is somewhere between 17 percent and 35 percent as much as we spend on defense – big numbers, big impact.
No.
53: Conspiracy theory
in context
The dissemination of information – at scale – that is not true or half true, or without appropriate context or is opinion dressed in the clothes of fact or legitimate (fact-based) news, is probably the greatest threat that our country has ever known. Of note, this is not a new problem; we have had rampant disinformation circulating, especially within the political sphere, since the beginning of our country. I recently read Jon Meacham’s great biography on Abraham Lincoln, “And there was Light,” which addressed our history prior to and following the elections of 1860 and 1864 –elections that Lincoln won. The intensity and scope of the disinformation surrounding both elections – over slavery, federal, and states’ rights – surely surpassed the disinformation surrounding the 2024 election, with one giant exception. The disinformation today is at such a massive scale, a scale that makes all pre-internet disinformation seem like a single drop within an entire ocean.
Information is power. Control of the means of dissemination of information is even more power. The tech billionairess now control it all. And we are OK with that?
No. 54: Johnny Carson & Ed Sullivan
These two ruled much of television for years, Carson from 1962 to 1992 and Sullivan from 1948 to 1971.
First “Tonight Show” guest: His first guests were Rudy Vallée, Tony Bennett, Mel Brooks and Joan Crawford. Bette Midler was Johnny Carson’s final guest on “The Tonight Show.” Wearing a dress with XOXO, Miss M sang “Miss Otis Regrets,” “Here’s That Rainy Day,” “You Made Me Watch You,” and the extremely memorable, “One for my Baby (and One More for the Road).”
Ranking The 5 Best Johnny Carson Tonight Show Guests Of All Time – 5.) Frank Sinatra; 4.) Robin Williams; 3.) Burt Reynolds; 2.) Jackie Gleason; 1.) Don Rickles.
First “Ed Sullivan Show” guest: In the show’s June 20, 1948, debut, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis performed along with singer Monica Lewis and Broadway composers Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II previewing the score to their then-new show “South Pacific,” which opened on Broadway in 1949. Last show: Gladys Knight and the Pips were the musical guests on the final show, which was cancelled shortly after its rerun broadcast on this day in 1971.
Why Carson and Sullivan on the list? Maybe for the same reason we still rewatch “The Wizard of Oz” or “The Miracle on 34th Street,” or that we still bathe in memory whenever we hear a song from “The Sound of Music” or the theme song for “Dr. Zhivago” (“Laura’s Theme”). Maybe that’s why.
No. 55: The Beatles
“Imagine,” “Yesterday,” “Helter Skelter,” “Hey Jude,” and on and on. Of note, one can argue that Ed Sullivan “made” the Beatles. They first appeared on his show on Feb. 9, 1964, and were seen by an estimated 73 million viewers. Their playlist on that first appearance: “All My Loving,” “Till There Was You,” “She Loves You,” “I Saw Her Standing There,” and their No. 1 hit, “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”
CARSON
Trip:
Continued from Page 1
“This is the first building block,” Singletary said. “If we’re going to build an accelerator, how do we get it filled as quickly as possible? Who are the people we need to have those relationships with, and when do we start developing them?”
Business in Brno
The trio’s trip began in Brno, the capital of the South Moravian region in the Czech Republic.
There, they attended the annual MSV International Industrial Fair, a multi-day trade show that featured more than 1,300 exhibitors with more than 55,000 in attendance.
“I mean, there were 15 buildings,” she said. “If you go to the China building, it was huge. Robots everywhere.”
City leaders met with dignitaries and business executives, including the Lord Mayor of Brno, the South Moravian Government and the CEO of the South Moravian Innovation Center, also known as the JIC, an association of legal entities that operates several incubators.
The JIC will be opening a second location in Georgia, and according to a list of priorities for the “Trade Mission,” provided in an open records request, Roswell wants dibs.
Hall, Singletary and Sorckoff also met with the CEO of BVV Trade Fairs Brno, organizer of the expo, Oct. 8.
Three weeks ago, on LinkedIn, BVV said its CEO Jan Kubata and Sales Director Lukáš Helan visited the cities of Atlanta and Roswell on a business trip to the U.S to meet with Gov. Brian Kemp, other state officials, including state Sen. John Albers, as well as Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson “and other key representatives of Roswell.”
When asked about the recent meeting stateside, Singletary and Hall appeared confused. But, Hall
eventually cited an event that included Wilson, Albers and Kemp.
When Singletary said she would call Albers to get clarification, with her phone in hand, Hall said, “It doesn’t really matter.” Later, Singletary emailed Appen Media that Albers said he did not participate in the meeting mentioned in the LinkedIn post.
“These conversations have been ongoing, and I think they just got mixed up,” she wrote.
While in the Czech Republic, Singletary said the group was joined by Alex Kaufman, partner at the law firm Chalmers, Adams, Backer & Kaufman and general counsel to the Georgia Republican Party.
They also met with staff from Georgia Tech economic development arm the Enterprise Innovation Institute.
Singletary said state representatives had visited the Czech Republic the week before Roswell officials did.
Eyes toward aerospace
After Brno, city leaders travelled to Prague and met with executives of PBS, a manufacturer of military drone engines. The company is opening a location in the U.S., and the group advocated for Roswell as its top pick.
“They’re kind of like the Lockheed Martin of Europe,” Singletary said.
In Prague, the group also met with PRK Partners, an international law firm. Singletary said the meeting was to explore a partnership in developing a soft-landing program for businesses launching out of Europe.
“They were very excited about those possibilities,” Singletary said.
The sister-city relationship Roswell is developing with Brno is the city’s first.
But, Roswell is simultaneously building relationships with other countries.
Singletary said the city just hosted the Swiss, a day that included a tour of homes and a pitch that envisions Roswell as the epicenter of the
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The Hungarian consulate, she said, is looking to have the same conversations.
“I’ve been putting them off because we’re trying to solidify the things, and things are still in motion,” Singletary said. “But, they’re eager, now that we’ve kind of opened the box for international relations.”
International companies, ready to set up shop, could bring high-paying jobs to Roswell.
“So, we’re looking at people that are hiring engineers, folks that graduated from Georgia Tech, Georgia, some of the North Carolina schools, Auburn, Alabama — they’re all within a close enough distance,” Hall said. “Those young adults can afford to live here, and they want to live here because it’s attractive.”
Over the past 20 years, foreign direct investments in Roswell total $92.8 million and have created more than 760 jobs, according to data provided by Singletary.
A new industry in Roswell also
means a larger commercial tax base, which has been a focus in recent council discussions, such as in its creation of a tax allocation district along the Holcomb Bridge corridor. The district is intended to spur investment in the blighted area.
“I think we’re going to make Roswell … once again, the premier city of North Fulton,” Singletary said. “I think a lot of our residents feel like we’ve been left behind by Alpharetta, and we get that feedback a lot, about all the things that Alpharetta is able to accomplish.”
Singletary commented on Hall’s performance overseas, as a representative of the city.
“I was proud of her every single day, of showing up — this little, petite woman, shaking everyone’s hand and telling them, ‘Roswell is open for business,’” she said. “…I’m so proud of this because we’re going to have exciting announcements, and that trip is going to change Roswell. We are going to see the fruits of that by the end of the year.”
CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The following items will be considered by the City Council on Monday, January 6, 2025 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.
a. E-25-03 Reece/120 North Trace Driveway Exception
Consideration of an exception to allow a circular driveway with a reduced separation between driveways. An exception is requested from Unified Development Code (UDC) Subsection 2.5.6(B) Public Street Access, Driveways and Curb Cuts to allow 2 curb cuts on the same lot less than 300’ from each other. The property is located at 120 North Trace and is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1125, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
b. E-25-02 The Maxwell Blade Sign Exception
Consideration of a sign exception to replace the monument sign allowance with a perpendicular sign. Exceptions are requested to Unified Development Code (UDC) Subsection 2.6.3 Definitions to vary from the definition of a monument sign, UDC Subsection 2.6.11 (D) Standards for Monument Signs to allow a monument sign without a base, UDC Subsection 2.6.12 Requirements for NonResidential Zoning Districts to reduce the sign setback and increase the sign height. The property is located at 210 South Main Street and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 693, 694, 695 & 696, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
c. PH-25-01 Continuum Change of Condition
Consideration of a change to conditions of zoning related to the Continuum mixed-use development. The property is located at 5555 Windward Parkway and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 1186, 1187, 1190 & 1191, 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.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The following item will be considered by the Board of Zoning Appeals on Thursday, January 16, 2025 commencing at 5:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.
a. V-25-01 12539 Darvish Lane Setback Variance
Consideration of variances from Unified Development Code (UDC) Subsection 2.3.3 (B) and UDC Subsection 2.3.3 (C) to reduce a swimming pool setback from 20’ to 10’. The property is located at 12539 Darvish Lane and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 1165 & 1166, 2nd District, 1st 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.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The following items will be considered by the Design Review Board on Friday, January 17, 2025 with a workshop commencing at 8:30 a.m. and regular meeting commencing at 9:00 a.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.
1. DRB240045 244 North Main St
Consideration of new residential construction. The property is located at 236 - 244 North Main St and is legally described as being in Land Lot 1197, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia
2. DRB250001 Hudson Park 193 Canton St
Consideration of exterior elevations and materials. The property is located at 193 Canton St and is legally described as being in Land Lot 1197 and 1252, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia
3. DRB250002 Bound Upward 348 South Main St
Consideration of new signage. The property is located at 348 South Main St and is legally described as being in Land Lot 0693, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia
4. DRB250003 26 Thai 210 South Main St
Consideration of new signage. The property is located at 210 South Main St and is legally described as being in Land Lot 0694, 0695 & 0696, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia
5. DRB240044 201 Marietta Home
Consideration of new residential construction. The property is located at 201 Marietta St and is legally described as being in Land Lot 1270, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia
6. DRB240042 The Maxwell
Consideration of signage for the business. The property is located at 210 South Main and is legally described as being in Land Lots 0694,0695 & 0696, 1st 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.
Bilingual Food Pantry Supervisor
Bilingual Food Pantry Supervisor
The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.
The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.
The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.
The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
Aleem LLC seeks a Digital Mrkting & Operations Analyst w/ Master’s in biz admin, Engg(any), or Tech-rltd & 1 yr of exp to dvlp, own & implmnt test initiatives to improve conversion rate & profitability of mrkting campaigns. mnge & implmnt new digital mrkting campaigns directly in various platforms. Perform mrkt analysis & competitive intel research to inform new ideas or existing prog improvmnts. Collect, analyze & rep on key metrics from all digital campaigns. Define product vision & direction, & communicate it optimally to cross-funct teams, execs, & partners. Collaborate w/ stakeholders to execute experiences that align w/ KYC strategy. Drive end-to-end product dvlpmt & working w/ engg & design teams to dvlp & launch new prods & features.
Work location is Roswell, GA. Please mail resumes to 1080 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Building 200, Ste 140, Roswell, GA 30076 (OR) e-mail: omar@aleemlaw.com
Diamond Glass Co of Alpharetta is seeking an Admin Assistant. Must have the ability to multitask, excellent written/verbal communication skills, as well computer skills. Knowledge of QuickBooks a plus. Send resumes to nikki@diamondglasscompany.com
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Salesforce Application Architect (Alpharetta, GA): Leads & facilitates disc & scoping sessions w/ the biz stakeholders, understands biz processes, identifies, & communicates tech dsgn risks, dvlps mitigation approaches if necessary, & articulates the value of recommended solutions & approaches. Works w/ vendors & employees in a distributed Onshore/Offshore model. Resumes to: Global Payment Holding Company, Brian Simons, Associate Director, HR Risk & Compliance, 3550 Lenox Road NE, Suite 3000, Atlanta, GA 30326. #AR930863
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