Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - December 28, 2023 by Appen Media Group

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A YEAR IN REVIEW

ALPHARETTA

Housing, North Point take focus of year

DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

► PAGE 3

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

LOOKING BACK AT

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

2023 Clockwise from top left: Roswell city officials and staff cut the ribbon June 30 officially reopening Oxbo Road to traffic; A cowgirl rides holding an American flag during Celebrate Freedom Rodeo’s opening night May 4; Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections Chair Patrise Perkins-Hooker, left, prepares to answer questions on elections at County Commissioner Bridget Thorne’s town hall meeting Sept. 14; Jumpers smile before the Alpharetta Rotary Club’s Polar Bear Plunge at the Wills Park Pool Feb. 4. Read the recaps, Page 3 and 5

ROSWELL

$107 million bonds

begin rolling out ► PAGE 5

OPINION Gilvin: Alpharetta success requires continued focus ► PAGE 7

Wilson: Roswell must deliver on promises ► PAGE 4

PUBLIC SAFETY

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POLICE BLOTTER 770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com 319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT NEWS TIPS Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com. LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance. ADVERTISING For information about advertising in the AlpharettaRoswell Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278. CIRCULATION To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Judged a newspaper of General Excellence 2023

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

Women sought for theft of 10 pairs of sunglasses ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police are searching for two women who allegedly stole 10 pairs of sunglasses from a shop at Avalon Dec. 15. The store manager reported the two female suspects entered the store around 7 p.m., looked around and left between five and 10 minutes later. She said the store was busy during the incident. While checking inventory after the rush of customers, employees reported finding multiple pairs of sunglasses were missing, so they reviewed security footage. The footage reportedly showed the suspects trying on sunglasses, taking them off and concealing them. Due to a technical issue, officers were unable to confirm the theft on the surveillance video, the report states. The store reported the total value of merchandise stolen at $4,349. The suspects have not been identified.

Alpharetta teenager hit partner, report says

ROSWELL, Ga. — Police arrested a 19-year-old Alpharetta man Dec. 20 after his girlfriend reported him for aggravated assault and battery. The victim, a 20-year-old Alpharetta woman, called police dispatch saying she was in a white Toyota traveling on Holcomb Bridge Road with a Black male before disconnecting the call. Responding officers located the vehicle behind Wellstar Primary Care on Holcomb Bridge Road shortly after the call. Officers said there were two people in the car and spoke to them separately. The suspect told officers he got into an argument with his girlfriend and punched her in the face.

The victim told officers the incident began with a trivial argument while traveling on Holcomb Bridge Road. She said her boyfriend hit her in the face twice, choked her unconscious and threatened to leave her on the side of the road. At one point, the victim said the suspect threatened to kill her. The suspect was placed in handcuffs in the back of a patrol car. Officers said there were marks present on the victim’s neck and her clothes were covered in blood. She was treated at the scene and transported to her home. The suspect was taken to the Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Jewelry reported stolen from Alpharetta home ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta man reported Dec. 16 someone stole $20,000 in jewelry from a safe in his home on Bentwood Trail. The victim reported he last saw the jewelry Nov. 16, but when he discovered the theft around 8 a.m. Dec. 16, he said the safe was undamaged. He reported his housekeeping service had access to his home during the timeframe, and some of his family knew the combination to the safe. No suspects have been identified.

Police check temples after bomb threat ROSWELL, Ga. — Police conducted a search of Temple Kehillat and Temple Beth Tikvah Dec. 17 after both locations received a bomb threat via email. The Roswell Police Criminal Investigations Division deployed multiple K9 and Explosive Ordinance Disposal units to both synagogues. Officers said nothing suspicious was observed during the sweep of both locations. Officers have not identified a suspect in the active investigation. Temple Kehillat and Temple Beth Tikvah requested increased patrols over the next few weeks, the shift report said.

Police seek suspect in credit card fraud ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta man reported Dec. 12 someone stole his wallet and used his credit card to purchase two laptops at Best Buy on North Point Drive. The victim reported going to the gym around 5 p.m., and he thought he placed his wallet in a locker. The report states when he returned to the locker around 6:30 p.m., his wallet was missing, but he said it was possible he had dropped it without securing it. The victim reported checking his account and finding his credit card had been used to purchase two $1,992 MacBook Pros at Best Buy. Officers reported seeing a male suspect use the card to make the purchase around 5:30 p.m. on the store’s security footage. The victim told officers he wishes to press charges if the suspect is identified.

Suspect evades officers following traffic violation ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police are searching for a suspect who evaded arrest following a traffic violation on North Point Parkway Dec. 13. Officers reported spotting a Jeep Patriot with a broken taillight around 8:30 p.m. on North Point Parkway near Mansell Crossing. The driver made a U-turn without yielding to oncoming traffic, and officers followed the suspect on Mansell Road to initiate a traffic stop. The suspect reportedly did not pull over and continued driving onto northbound Ga. 400. Officers reported deactivating their emergency lights and following the suspect onto the Haynes Bridge Road exit, North Point Drive and North Point, Encore and Westside parkways. Officers failed to intercept the suspect at the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and Lakeview Parkway, and the vehicle fled onto southbound Ga. 400, the report states. No suspects have been identified.

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NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2023 | 3

ALPHARETTA YEAR IN REVIEW

North Point Mall plans on horizon heading into Alpharetta’s new year By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta is expecting new plans for the redevelopment of the North Point Mall this spring. The new proposal comes after a previous plan to transform the mall into an 84-acre mixed-use development was rejected in late 2022. For the better part of the past decade, Alpharetta has committed to reinvigorating the North Point district. It adopted an overlay to streamline development, and it formed a tax allocation district in 2019 that would use some accrued tax dollars to fund improvements in the area. The district included 138 parcels on some 898 acres, with an estimated tax digest of $268 million. Although the tax allocation district was dissolved in October, its taxable value had risen to $298.45 in 2023, a nearly 7 percent increase from when it was formed in 2019. It also generated $105,670 for redevelopment, which will now be committed to improvements within the district. Alpharetta Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard said North Point

Original plans included a 10,500-square-foot event plaza, interactive water features, small parks with art and seating, outdoor dining space, a variety of paths and a food and beverage garden. Development would have spanned 10 years and included 315,000 square feet of retail and restaurant, a 150room hotel, 875 apartments and 85 for-sale townhomes. Trademark formally presented the plans at a City Council meeting Nov. 7, 2022. Only Councilmen Brian Will and Donald Mitchell supported the proposal, and it ultimately failed in a 2-5 vote.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

This rendering shows Pickle and Social, a pickleball, dining and social venue coming to the North Point area in Alpharetta. The City Council approved the new facility off Rock Mill Road and Ga. 400 Nov. 13. Mall owner New York Life will submit new redevelopment plans for the mall in the next three months, but the city is not sure what those plans will look like. A public presentation to the City Council is pending staff review.

Previous proposal In early 2022, the Texas-based Trademark Property Company unveiled plans to demolish portions of the North Point Mall to construct a walkable, mixed-use community with greenspace.

The apartment conundrum The number of apartments at the site was a common concern on the dais. Under its 2040 comprehensive plan, Alpharetta aims for apartments, or multifamily homes, to make up 35 percent of its housing stock, though that is not a rigid number. In that plan, the city reported 34 percent of its housing units were rentals as of 2020.

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A LOOK AHEAD

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OPINION

Roswell will continue to deliver on promises Each year when I write this article reflecting on all that we accomplished in the past year, I am extremely proud of the strides this City Council and city staff have achieved KURT WILSON to make Roswell Mayor of Roswell the No. 1 family community in America. This past year has been a whirlwind of accomplishments. There are too many to fit into this space, but I will highlight some of the biggest accomplishments we made during 2023. The Bond Roswell voters overwhelmingly approved $179.6 million in three bond questions on the ballot in Nov. 2022 for capital projects in our community. This past year, we began making those promised projects a reality. We cut the ribbon on the brand new turf fields and completed the new tennis courts at East Roswell Park. Look for new turf fields to open soon in upper and lower Groveway Park and Roswell Area Park in early 2024. The city has also been doing its due diligence on sites for a new public safety center and the new parking deck for downtown Roswell. Stay tuned for major announcements soon. Public Safety When we first came into office, we accomplished two major public safety initiatives: Best-in-class pay for our police officers and transitioning our Fire Department from a part-time staffing model to a full-time model. This past year, we took it a step further. We approved best-in-class pay for our firefighters to attract and hire the best public safety professionals for our city. Transportation One of the first things I did as Roswell’s mayor was work with the City Council and staff to create a realistic and achievable action plan to finish and open Oxbo Road to traffic. After sitting dormant for years, in June 2023, we finished the project and

opened the road six months earlier than projected. When the city makes a promise to its residents, I believe we should keep it. That’s why the city will be reverting back to the original Big Creek Parkway design approved by voters in the 2016 TSPLOST referendum. Another major accomplishment of 2023 was approving the Roswell Transportation Master Plan. This new plan focuses on the transportation needs within Roswell and not the greater region. It is an actionable plan with a timetable and priority list, along with the funding to deliver to our residents the types of projects they’ve told us they want. There are 187 projects in the plan. I encourage you to visit roswellgov.com to read it in more detail and see what we have planned for the future of Roswell transportation. Budget As a small business owner, I understand the importance of knowing where every dollar is spent. That is why, last year, the city implemented zero-based budgeting. This comprehensive analysis and review enabled us to find $3 million in savings and roll back the tax rate while maintaining our triple-A bond rating. Recreation and Parks Back in 2015, the city created a River Parks Master Plan. That plan sat on the shelf until this mayor and council took office. We budgeted $6 million to move forward with the plan, and voters approved an additional $25 million in the bond to make this plan a reality. We have already begun work at Don White Park and the Ace Sand property. This plan will transform our River Parks in the coming years. 2023 was a very busy year for the City of Roswell filled with great accomplishments! But I can promise you is this: If you thought 2023 was something – just watch and see what your Roswell City Leadership Team will deliver with God’s help for us in 2024. Thank you for entrusting us with the sacred responsibility of representing you. We still have a tremendous amount of work to do!

NEWS

ROSWELL YEAR IN REVIEW

AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2023 | 5

City rolls out first of $107 million in bond projects By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — During the lead-up to the municipal elections in Roswell, the political atmosphere in Roswell was tense. After a contentious runoff election for the Post 2 seat on the City Council, councilman-elect Alan Sells said he hopes residents and candidates can set aside divisive rhetoric questioning opponents’ motives. “Wise zoning and economic revitalization will only improve Roswell’s rank among preferences,” Sells said after the Dec. 5 runoff. “That is good for businesses, for property values, and ultimately, for resident’s Roswell taxes.” Sells joins Councilman David Johnson as the new faces on the Roswell City Council. Incumbents Christine Hall and Sarah Beeson successfully defended their seats on the council. After raising existing officer salaries by 20 percent and boosting starting salaries by 20 percent across the board in July 2022, brand new officer’s salaries start at $58,553, and officers with experience and a college degree can make up to $71,635. In January, the department announced there were 160 officers employed at the start of 2023, leaving no vacancies. For the first time in 20 years, the Roswell Police Department is fully staffed. The department has been in the same building on Hill Street since 1991. Back then, there were 88 officers serving 49,000 residents. Today, the population has nearly doubled to 93,000.

handles the parking deck project, the lowest interest rate was about 5 percent. Financial services company Raymond James won the bid. In total, the bonds, along with the general operations mill levy, will increase the average homeowner’s tax bill. The city celebrated completion of one of the first bond projects May 19 with replacement of two artificial turf fields at East Roswell Park. Councilman William Morthland, who serves as liaison to the Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department, said the city will now move onto construction at Grimes Bridge Park and

APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO

From left, Mayor Kurt Wilson, City Attorney David Davidson and Councilman David Johnson share a laugh at a Nov. 27 meeting. Johnson was sworn in by Wilson after winning the Post 4 election Nov. 7. Police Chief James Conroy said the department has “outgrown” its existing headquarters. City sells first round of bonds If Roswell residents are wondering why their city taxes increased in 2023, even though the City Council reduced the property tax rate to fund government operations, look no further than the debt service on voter-approved bonds. In November 2022, Roswell residents approved three bond referendums: $107.6 million to fund recreation and parks, bike and pedestrian improvements and sidewalks; $52 million to fund a new public safety center and new fire stations; and $20 CRABAPPLE million for a parking deck in Historic Downtown Roswell. The sale of the first round of general obligation bonds, totaling $86.2 million, was announced by financial adviser David Cheatwood at the May 22 City Council meeting. Cheatwood said the first issuance of bonds were separated into taxable and tax-exempt portions. Citigroup Global Markets had the best bid for the “2023A series,” which covers

parks and recreation and public safety. The firm had the lowest interest rate at just under 4 percent. For the taxable “2023B series,” which

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

OPINION

2024 marks renewed effort for great community journalism What motivates a person to identify a problem and resolve to be a part of the solution? What makes someone read a troublesome news article or see something that bothHANS APPEN Publisher ers them in their community and say, “You know what? I can fix that.” These are questions I’ve thought about and discussed in conversations with many of you in 2023. The constant is that we have no problem identifying the problems: Food is too expensive. Government doesn’t seem to work. Housing, what inventory there is to be had, is unaffordable and unattainable. Our kids are inheriting a world full of boogey men of our own creation. But what are the solutions? What, if anything, can we do to move the needle? The Appen Press Club hosted an event last week at Olde Blind Dog in Milton. We lined up our reporting staff, stood them in front of microphones,

and discussed the work of our newsroom in 2023 and some of the projects on the horizon for next year. Afterward, all of them stuck around to have individual conversations with attendees, answer questions, and listen to story ideas. I was approached by one young woman, a college student, would told me she would be graduating in May with a degree in journalism. She’d come to the event to network and given the opportunity, she wanted to ask me for my thoughts on the future of the industry I love and work in every day. She is still a true believer and loves what she is studying, but the reality of graduating and growing up was sinking in. “I want to make a difference in people’s lives. Can you still do that in journalism? I am worried that despite journalists’ best efforts to inform, people don’t take it seriously anymore, or just don’t care.” She told me about important stories she had written for her college newspaper that seemed to disappear into the void. That many of her peers confessed they hadn’t even known their school has a student run news-

paper. What makes someone read a troublesome news article or see something that bothers them in their community and say, “You know what? I can fix that.” “Just keep showing up,” I told her. “How we report the news and where we report the news may change, but people do care. Look around you.” Dozens of people were lined up to talk to our reporters, from all over metro Atlanta. Young and old, black and white, rich and poor. They were given an opportunity to be heard, in their community, and they showed up. We heard from people discussing veterans’ issues, protecting local arts, government transparency, civic engagement and much more. For an

hour after the event had officially ended people wanted to contribute to their local newspaper because they cared about the stories that were being told – and the stories that needed to be told. I continue to believe that showing up is half the battle. Meet people where they are and listen. They will tell you what is important to them, what inspires them to action and to service, but you have to put in the work. My commitment to you in 2024 is to continue to put in the work. We are proudly your local newspaper and are ready and willing to be a part of the solution. Merry Christmas to all, and Happy New Year.

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A LOOK AHEAD

OPINION

Alpharetta’s success requires continued, focused effort Looking back at the last twelve months, 2023 was another year of tremendous success in the City of Alpharetta. Together, we continued to achieve new heights and create a truly exceptional community. JIM GILVIN While the achieveMayor of Alpharetta ments of the past year are impressive, what makes Alpharetta truly exceptional is our history of repeating impressive results year after year. You do not have to look hard to see how cities rise and fall when they take success for granted. There are examples of cities across our nation that allowed themselves to get comfortable and wrongly assumed their success would continue. You need only watch the nightly news or see the license plates of cars in Alpharetta driven by people who moved here from California, Illinois and other states where once great cities took their success for granted. Fortunately, in the City of Alpharetta your mayor, City Council and professional leadership team never take success for granted. Experience has taught us that exceptional success requires a delicate balance of patience, skill and effort; all seasoned with a pinch of luck. With that experience and the skills developed creating Avalon and Downtown Alpharetta we will continue to work closely with Northpoint Mall’s owner, New York Life, to create a best-in-class redevelopment that will serve as a point of pride in Alpharetta for decades to come. A pivotal trend in Alpharetta’s economic growth in 2023 has been the recovery of our local economy as major employers once again prioritize the value

of bringing employees together in our community’s office parks where creativity and innovation are fostered by human interactions. Economic headlines were also made when Morgan Stanley, one of the world’s most respected financial organizations, announced the expansion of its Alpharetta operations that could make them our city’s largest employers. Business publications buzzed, again, later in the year when Mativ, one of the world’s largest specialty materials suppliers, located its corporate headquarters in Alpharetta. Alpharetta’s success in supporting the growth of our local economy is largely due to the enormous investments we make to elevate quality of life, improve transportation and ensure the safety of those who live, work and play in this community. In 2023, we made tremendous progress on projects like the transformation of the Kimball Bridge Road Corridor, the expansion of the Alpha Loop, development of Waters Road Park, and improvements at the Wills Park Equestrian Center. In partnership with the Georgia Department of Transportation, we have seen considerable progress on the improvements to State Route 9 and the replacement of Kimball Bridge over Georgia 400. These are all transformative projects that have been years in the making. On a personal note, I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Alpharetta as their mayor for one last term. When I first took an oath to serve on Alpharetta’s City Council back in January of 2012, I could never have imagined what lay ahead and I will never take this honor for granted. 2023 has been a great year for Alpharetta and our future promises to be even better!

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January book events kick off new year with a bang By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com After the book-buying bustle of the holidays, the number of author events in January may seem small, but some are certainly mighty. Karen White, Milton’s own New York Times bestseller, will be in conversation with suspense author Deborah Goodrich Royce Jan. 12 at Poe & Company Bookstore. Then, Brad Taylor, author of the blockbuster Pike Logan series, will appear at the Milton Library Jan. 27. Hosted by A Novel Idea, Taylor will be discussing and signing his latest military thriller, “Dead Man’s Hand,” available that day from Bookmiser. A 21-year veteran of the U.S. Army Infantry and Special Forces, including eight years with Delta Force, Taylor serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats for various agencies when he isn’t writing. When he is, he’s penning intricate storylines packed with authenticity for readers who “love the ticking-clock action,” accord-

Book happenings. Thursdays, Jan. 4-25, Organizing Your Novel Workshop. Writer and teacher Brandi Bradley will lead a four-week course for writers. 6 p.m. each Thursday in January. $95. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-5095611. bookmiser.net Friday, Jan. 12, Karen White, Debra Goodrich Royce. The authors will discuss Royce’s latest release, “Reef Road.” 5 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 13, Paige Watts. The seasoned travel writer will sign her new book, “What’s With Atlanta: The Quirks, Personality, and Charm of the ATL.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com Tuesday, Jan. 16, Robert Gwaltney, Andrew Diaz Winkelmann and DL Mitchell. A Novel Idea will host Gwaltney, the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year for First Novel, along with other new authors Winkelmann and Mitchell. Mitchell, a practicing small animal veterinarian, will be launching her debut title that evening. 7 p.m. Free. Brimstone Restaurant & Tavern, 10595 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/bookevents.html Saturday, Jan. 20, Lauren Walier. “The Dancing Swan,” based on the

PROVIDED

New York Times bestselling author Brad Taylor will speak at the Milton Library Jan. 27.

ing to Kirkus Reviews. And, with over 3 million books in print, Taylor’s fast-paced, informed approach is a proven winner. To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

author’s real-life story as a ballroom champion with cerebral palsy, will be the focus of a reading and CP fundraiser. 2 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 20, Dr. Nicole B. Hight. The local author and pediatrician will be signing her new release, “You Are Made for This!” During a discussion with parents, she’ll explore whether a chapter a day can keep the doctor away and how a love of reading in early childhood may reduce adolescent stress and boost brain and mental health in teens. 3 p.m. Free. Johns Creek Books, 6000 Medlock Bridge Road, 770-696-9999. johnscreekbooks.com Saturday, Jan. 27, Dorothy Padgett. Atlanta Authors presents Padgett discussing her nonfiction work, “Jimmy Carter: Elected President with Pocket Change & Peanuts,” with a foreword by Carter. Free, in person or online. 2 p.m. Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St. 404612-9700. forl.net/atlanta-authors Saturday, Jan. 27, Brad Taylor. The New York Times bestselling author of 17 titles will celebrate the release of “Dead Man’s Hand,” the 18th installment in his Pike Logan Series. A Novel Idea will host Taylor, who will sign books sold by Bookmiser. 4 p.m. Free. Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/ book-events.html

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When you’re in London and go for a tea with, whether it be your friends or family, we want it to kind of have that feel right here. ANGELA AVERY, Co-owner of The Ginger Room 10 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2023

Ginger Room invites guests to traditional British teatime By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Ginger Room invites guests to experience a traditional British teatime in the oldest home in downtown Alpharetta. Roswell couple Karl Walbrook and Angela Avery opened The Ginger Room in February 2021 after two years of searching for a location to expand their hit farmers market business Ginger Yums. After COVID-19 temporarily closed the Alpharetta Farmers Market, Walbrook said their customers sought a physical location to buy Ginger Yums juice. During this process, Avery said they found the perfect spot at 61 Roswell St. The Skelton-Teasley House was built in 1856 for Dr. Oliver Skelton, a local physician and the city’s first postmaster, and his wife. “I think it all worked out divinely because spacewise, being the oldest home, it has that character and charm that we wanted,” Avery said. At The Ginger Room, guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon or high tea, with a choice from more than 50 blends, finger foods, pastries and fresh scones baked daily, with clotted cream and jam. On weekdays, The Ginger Room offers its a la carte menu, where guests can sample individual items without a reservation for afternoon or high tea. But, above all, Avery said the tea house invites its patrons to experience an intimate, unique experience. “When you’re in London and go for a tea with, whether it be your friends or family, we want it to kind of have that feel right here,” she said. A love of ginger Around 2018, Avery and Walbrook founded Ginger Yums, which promotes the natural benefits of ginger through a variety of fresh juices. The couple began selling Ginger Yums at the Alpharetta Farmers Market in 2019 to immediate success. The brand has since expanded to five markets across Metro Atlanta and a new sip room at 8465 Holcomb Bridge Road in Johns Creek. The pandemic may have paused business at the farmers market, but the demand for Ginger Yums

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Angela Avery and Karl Walbrook smile outside The Ginger Room at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta Dec. 19. The couple co-own the authentic British tea house, which opened in the historic Skelton-Teasley House in February 2021. never ceased. “Our customers, they wanted a place to come and get their juice, but we were like, ‘Well, we don’t want

See GINGER, Page 11

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More information on reservations and menus can be found at the-gingerroom.com.

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Ginger: Continued from Page 10 to just do a juice bar,’” Avery said. “We were like, ‘We want to do a juice and tea house, something really, really cool.’ We love tea houses, and we love experiences.” Avery and Walbrook, a London native, said they enjoyed hosting holiday high tea for their friends and family before they conceived the business. Their mutual love for hosting teatime, as well as the demand from their farmers market clientele, inspired The Ginger Room. “Well, I said, what I want to do as well is have an authentic tea house, so we could do our afternoon teas here,” Walbrook said. Now in its second year of business, The Ginger Room has been named among the state’s nine best tea rooms by Explore Georgia and sees visitors from across the United States. An authentic experience There are formal three teatime options at The Ginger Room: afternoon, high and children’s tea. Each variation is served on a traditional three-tiered tower, with the bottom level including a selection of finger sandwiches such as English egg salad and smoked pimento cheese. The second level features handmade scones from Walbrook’s recipe from his days in grammar school. “We make those scones fresh each and every day for our towers and for our guests who pop in,” Avery said. “And then you have fresh clotted cream made in house, and then you have your jams as well. We usually do strawberry, lemon curd and ginger, of course, because we’re in The Ginger Room.”

BUSINESSPOSTS Avery said the top level, which highlights a rotating selection of specialty treats, is mostly sourced from local vendors at farmers markets. The towers feature The Ginger Room’s exclusive ginger mini donuts from Orchard Bakery; English shortbread crown cookies from Angel Lane in Cumming; and teacup and teapot cookies from a bakery in Vinings. Some desserts, such as Bakewell tarts and truffles, are baked in-house by Walbrook. Although the expansion of their ginger-based businesses has kept them busy, the couple still stop by The Ginger Room frequently, especially on weekends. Since many of the recipes originated from Walbrook’s expertise, he is often found in the kitchen or greeting guests. “He still makes every shepherd’s pie,” Avery said. “He’s trained them really good on the scones, so you can’t tell if he made them or one of the kitchen staff made them because they’re perfect now.” Guests can also order high tea, which is an elevated version of afternoon tea with hot savory items such as shepherd’s pie, tomato pie, quiche Lorraine or croissant sandwiches. Based on request and availability, Walbrook also cooks his chef’s special, salmon en croute. Children’s tea is a simplified version of afternoon tea for visitors 10 years old and younger. Although afternoon and high tea can be served at any sitting time, The Ginger Room seats guests for tea between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays and at 12:30 and 3 p.m. on weekends. Individual items can be served a la carte throughout the week, but Avery recommends making a reservation for any experience at The Ginger Room. “Everyone is truly welcome,” Avery said. “And we really want everyone to come and experience The Ginger Room.”

AppenMedia.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2023 | 11

PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

The Skelton-Teasley House at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta was built in 1856 for local physician and postmaster Dr. Oliver Skelton. After years of housing an office and serving as an art gallery, it is now home to The Ginger Room.

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A table is set for tea for two at The Ginger Room at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta Dec. 19. Guests can sample the business’s a la carte menu or enjoy a traditional afternoon or high tea during set times on weekdays and weekends.

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Revolutionizing fitness: The Exercise Coach's cutting-edge approach Brought to you by – The Exercise Coach Alpharetta At The Exercise Coach, we’re not just changing workouts; we’re redefining how people age. Our unique blend of innovative Exerbotics equipment and expert coaching creates a fitness experience like no other, specifically designed for individuals who value quality, ef ficiency, and personalized attention. Innovative Exerbotics: The Future of Fitness Our state-of-the-art Exerbotics equipment sets us apart. This isn’t your typical gym machinery. Each piece is engineered to adapt to your strength and capabilities, ensuring the most ef fective and safe workout possible. With Exerbotics, we can

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Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

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Fourteen-year-old wins science award for soap that treats skin cancer Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta Young innovator Heman Bekele recently won 3M’s Young Scientist Challenge by creating a bar of soap that might be able to treat skin cancer. Starting out, he wanted to invent a treatment for skin cancer that could be used in developing countries. Such a treatment would need to be inexpensive and stable outside of air-conditioned environments. He wondered if medicated soap could fit the bill. Heman’s soap combines four ingredients: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin and a medication called imidazoquinoline. Tretinoin is commonly known as Retin-A® and is the main ingredient in many anti-acne and anti-wrinkle creams. Salicyclic acid and glycolic acid are common antiwart treatments. Together, tretinoin, salicyclic acid and glycolic acid can disrupt a person’s skin barrier so that other medicines can better penetrate the skin. This strategy could allow imidazoquinoline to better enter the skin and perform its job. Imidazoquinoline is an activator or “agonist” of toll like receptor (TLR) number 7. TLR’s are a family of proteins on the surface of many cells of our immune system. When these proteins are activated, the immune system becomes more active. TLR7, the protein targeted by Heman Bekele’s soap, is normally activated by certain viruses. TLR7 stimulates a part of the immune system that is important for fighting infections and cancer. Given that some skin diseases such as HPV-related squamous cell carcinoma are both an infection and a cancer, targeting TLR7 has been a winning strategy for fighting certain cancers. In fact, Aldara® (generic

name “imiquimod”) is a toll like receptor 7 agonist (activator) that has been FDA approved since 1997 and is used for the treatment of superficial basal cell skin cancers, certain types of warts, and pre-cancers called actinic keratoses. Aldara®’s clearance rates for superficial basal cell carcinoma are reasonable at approximately 75%. Unfortunately, Aldara® is known to be a relatively fragile cream. It is supplied in boxes of 12 or 24 singleuse packets. Common wisdom is that a partially used packet may be refrigerated overnight and used the next day. However, the package insert says that they are single use and must be stored at 39 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be frozen. These restrictions are reasonable in the United States but are not conducive to use in developing countries without access to refrigeration and temperature-controlled transportation. Heman Bekele’s soap could be ground-breaking if clinical trials take place and if they prove that imidazoquinoline can stand up to acids, heat, cold, water and repetitive use. Furthermore, potency with short application time might be an issue – how long would someone need to leave the soap on their skin for it to work? If successful, a hardy soap could be a useful vehicle as a topical cancer treatment. His research is likely at an early stage, but regardless, it is encouraging to read about young innovators problemsolving, thinking globally and trying to make the world a better place. Congratulations Heman! We hope that you enjoyed this article. If you or a loved one has skin cancer or any dermatologic or aesthetic need, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta.

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14 | December 28, 2023 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell

Getting ready for the new year! Brought to you by – Jay Looft, Senior Source Medicare

for help. We can easily get a new ID card ordered for you.

With the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period behind us, you have already chosen to either stay on your current plan and allow it to auto-renew, or you are about to embark on a new chosen plan. Either way, we want to offer up a few recommendations before the 2024 plan year arrives!

Don’t be surprised with deductibles: Every January, I receive at least a few phone calls asking, “Why are my brandname prescription drugs so expensive?!” Whether you are on a Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan, many insurance companies will require you to pay up to the first $545 (for 2024) of your brand-name drug cost. This is your annual deductible on prescriptions. Remember, this is usually only for higher-cost prescription drugs (brandname medicines) and is a one-time per year dollar amount. It accounts for all your brand-name medicines and is not a per-prescription deductible. The information above gives you a few things to think about, but you may have questions when your Medicare plan starts fresh in 2024. We are here to help! SeniorSource Medicare Solutions is an independent insurance agency representing most insurance carriers for Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Stand-Alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Call us at (770) 913-6464 or visit our website at www.Senior SourceMedicare.com.

Get a new insurance ID card: Every November or early December, you should receive a new plan ID card. It is important that you have the most up-todate ID card for the upcoming year. Why, you ask? Doctor copay dollar amounts (Primary Care and Specialist) are listed on your Insurance ID card, if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan. For many 2024 Medicare Advantage plans, these flat-dollar copays have lowered. I’ve seen too often where Medicare Advantage clients hold onto their previous year’s ID cards and end up paying too much when showing older ID cards to the front desk at a doctor’s office. Save more money by having the most up-to-date ID card! If you need help getting a new ID card for your plan, I recommend either calling your insurance carrier or contacting us

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Healing together: understanding and supporting those with PTSD By Alexa Mellman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Summit Counseling Center Understanding the far-reaching impacts of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is crucial for both those directly affected by it and their support networks. When a person experiences trauma (through experiences such as military combat, accidents, abuse, or assault), their body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. In individuals with PTSD, this stress response can become dysregulated, resulting in disproportionate reactions even in safe situations. PTSD’s effects on the brain can lead to heightened alertness or edginess, sleep issues, difficulty controlling emotions, and more. Beyond mental health, PTSD affects the body, increasing the risk of health issues including heart problems, immune and stomach issues,

and chronic pain. Understanding the biological effects of PTSD can help loved ones provide appropriate support. Here are a few additional tips if your loved one is experiencing PTSD: • Practice open communication. Assure your loved one you're ready to listen when they're ready, and try to remember that it's often not personal when someone suffering with PTSD lashes out or becomes depressed (setting boundaries where necessary). • Prioritize self-care and seek support if needed. Engage in activities that promote your well-being, allowing you to be more resilient and supportive to your loved one. • Encourage your loved one to seek professional help from mental health experts who specialize in trauma and PTSD. For expert assistance and guidance, consider reaching out to Summit Counseling Center at summitcounseling. org.

Across

Northern Ridge announces November Eagle Scouts

From left: Gregory Borgerding, of Troop 7153, sponsored by St. Brigid Catholic Church, whose project was the design and construction of shelving units and repair/renovation of the ramps for the Pinecrest Academy Theater Department storage shed. Connor Oneacre, Troop 51, sponsored by American Legion Post 201, whose project was the design and construction of wooden benches for the Arbor Terrace memory care unit. Sean Collins, of Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian

Church, whose project was the design and construction of fountains and installation of flowering plants around the fountains, for Johns Creek Baptist Church Rushik Peddi, of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church whose project was the design and Construction of four new Outdoor Wooden Benches at the Sai Baba Temple. Andrew Prokash, of Troop 1857, sponsored by Christ the Shepard Lutheran Church, whose project was the design and construction of an outdoor greenhouse for Webb Bridge Middle School. Austin Song, of Troop 629, sponsored by Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of a sensory garden and trail for the courtyard at Barnwell Elementary School.

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62 Oxlike antelope 63 Pigeon’s home 64 Full gainer 65 Wonderland girl 66 Ionian gulf 67 Chimp in space 68 Weighed down 69 Ottoman Empire figures 70 Fender blemish Down 1 Reindeer herder 2 Part of a court game name 3 Hatched 4 Splashed 5 Squirrel’s stash

6 Caviar source 7 Turn ___ profit 8 Ave. crossers 9 Off the mark 10 Bit of parsley 11 Kite part 12 Footnote abbr. 13 Cold war group 22 Boring tool 24 Dot follower 26 “Unhand me!” 27 Gibson garnish 28 Hawks 30 Burnt sienna 31 Scrooge’s cry 32 Short-legged dog 33 Little green man 34 Tortellini topping 36 Bronx Bomber

38 Overly conceited 41 Moldovan cash 46 Samovar 48 Without warning 49 Pine type 51 Social 53 Think tank output 54 Toll 55 Cantina cooker 56 Domestic 57 Achy 59 Dandy’s pal 60 Bath’s county 61 Musical interval 63 Subway alternative

See solution page 22

AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

SATURDAY, JAN. 6, 10 a.m. – Post Oratorical Contest High school students prepare and speak on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution. Nine students from three area schools, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee and Innovation Academy, are scheduled to compete. Admission to this event is free. DANCES & DANCE INSTRUCTION Dances: Friday, Saturday & Sunday Evenings Line Dance Instruction: Monday & Friday Mornings; Wednesday Evening Free Dance Lessons: Thursday Evening Solution on next page (Donations Accepted for Troops & Veterans Services) For Complete Details Visit: www.club201dance.com/calendar

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1 Science rooms 5 Ancient Greek sophist 9 Fall flower 14 Cockeyed 15 Small price to pay 16 Outpouring 17 Legal prefix 18 Rousing cheers 19 Threesome 20 Four gills 21 Furrow 22 Warbles 23 Chinese dynasty 25 Dust remover 26 Also-ran 29 Monastery 32 Spending limit 35 Oomph 37 Criminal charge 38 Tree trunk 39 Mah-jongg piece 40 Waikiki welcome 42 Rainbow goddess 43 Olympian’s quest 44 Just out 45 Prospector’s find 47 Switch positions 48 Smelly mammal 50 Zoo heavyweight 51 Rightful 52 Supreme Court count 54 Hair dressing 57 Landscaper’s need 58 Churchill’s “___ Country”

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (Cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) is proud to announce a new class of Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review Nov. 30 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

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OPINION

Christmas 2023 − Letter from Ray Appen Well. Well, what? Been a very hard year in too many ways with too many people we loved. But there was some good as well. I never cease to be surprised when ideas, experiences, or RAY APPEN things you read years Publisher Emeritus ago return from the back side of memory after having been lost for so long. Like the dark side of the moon – always unseen, until there is light – and then boom, back front and center, so close you can touch it: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” Charles Dickens, “A Tale of Two Cities” – 1859. (10th grade literature class) One problem of growing old is memory. I may have used Dickens in a prior Christmas letter; I suspect this. Hmmmm. Apologies if I did. Things don’t seem to have changed much since 1859 though, have they? That one sentence covers a lot of ground – like miles and miles perhaps. It will suffice as a multi-faceted description of 2023. I will however, side with just one part of the description – “seasons” – “season of light” as well as “spring of hope.” The rest of the description does fit but we must pick our battles, which

mountains we want to climb or the destinations to pursue. I choose “light.” Our children brought light to us this year as they almost always do. If we can’t find light with them, where can we find it? All three of our kids and our three grandchildren live close to us now and shared a ton of time with us this year – here in Alpharetta and on Dog Island. We get to participate in their story often – priceless. Time and light. Time and light. Time – the only true constant. What we do with it; how we use it; who we help with it; what picture we paint with it; what images we create and then see in the mirror, we can only see with light. Our reflection in the mirror is only darkness without light. If we are not using our time wisely – to nurture our soul, to feed it and sustain it – what are we thinking? Early this morning before the day starts, I sit next to our Christmas tree, full of light and ornaments as I ponder 2023. Many of the ornaments are mini-picture frames with photos of us and our kids from a long time ago – memories – memories hanging from wire hooks in a field of green and wrapped in scent. If I close my eyes, I can time-travel back; it doesn’t take much. If I open my eyes, I see the light – symbols of hope for the future. We have a Douglas fir this year. I think next year we will buy a live tree so we can plant it after the season. Why haven’t we done that before? My writing chair next to our Douglas fir is in front of several large windows. Outside, a stand of old growth trees – which is our backyard – has almost finished shedding its leaves. A few burnt or-

ange, yellow and brown leaves remain and tremble in the getting-colder-bythe-hour wind, then fall randomly and unhurriedly float to the ground to start to become soil again. Like watching time pass, minute by minute in the form of falling leaves. Wasn’t it just yesterday we were so excited to see those same trees starting to bud? Memory of the past and what is “memory of the future?” We cling to what we know, to what has made us happy, to what made us feel safe, secure and loved. We watch it, nurture it, seek it, covet it, guard it, embrace it, until, until it begins to slip away just outside of our grasp, like the shadow of a train passing farther and farther away from us down a track until it disappears completely, out of sight, from light into darkness. But if we slow down enough, we can find an even richer, more secure place in-between the past and the future – here, now, in this very moment – a place which can produce all the light and hope we need for tomorrow. Christina and I, along with Amelia and a friend went to see a play, “Annie,” last night at the Fox Theater. The Fox is magical. It is a restored historic theater in downtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street, a theater that Margaret Mitchell might have attended while she was writing “Gone with the Wind” in the ’30s. The Fox opened on Dec. 25, 1929 – Christmas Day – just two months after the stock market crash and the start of the Great Depression. Just sitting in the Fox and experiencing it is worth the trip. It is a living, breathing, tribute to humanity – something we almost lost years ago – some-

thing we magically created and something we collectively saved from the wrecker’s ball. “Save the Fox” was a sign I’ll always remember that hung on a wall in my friend Bill Greenwood’s restaurant, a really old sign. We need to do more stuff like that – work together to build – to save and preserve things that give our lives meaning and light – things that nurture our souls. And how ironic that we saw “Annie” at the Fox – in December no less. “Annie” was set during the depth of the Great Depression and portrays the misery and hopelessness that so many people experienced in those dark days. But it was not a play about giving up; it was about hope – and light – something we desperately need today. In “Annie,” orphan children were rescued. The good guys won. The bad guys lost. Love prevailed and darkness and despair turned to light and hope. I suspect that no one felt the chill in the air as they left the Fox last night. Instead, they felt warm, happy, safe and secure if only for a few precious magic moments. Paraphrased below are a few of the lyrics from “Annie” which should give us all hope and comfort this Christmas season and into 2024. Tomorrow, tomorrow The sun’ll come out tomorrow Tomorrow, You’re always A day away! Merry Christmas to all of you with hope, light, and best wishes. — The Appens

PRESERVING THE PAST

OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2023 | 19

Frank Dailey − Alpharetta resident and war hero Since starting my weekly column on local history for Appen Media nearly two years ago, I have met many noteworthy and fascinating individuals who have contributed much to the North Fulton story. BOB MEYERS One overly modest Columnist Alpharetta resident stands out in my mind as being worthy of special attention. At 102 years of age, Franklyn Dailey is one of the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation of World War ll combat veterans. He is living proof of the adage that age is just a number. His mind is sharp, he lives alone and gets around with or without a walker. He has a wonderful story to tell. Born of Irish descent Feb. 5, 1921 in Brockport, a village near Rochester, New York, Daily was a teenager when the worst of the Great Depression panicked the nation. A gifted student, he had the good fortune of attending Catholic schools, graduating from high school with a near 4-point average at the age of 14. He then worked briefly at Eastman Kodak Company until he enrolled in Niagara University where he remained until Caroline O’Day, Congresswoman at Large for New York State, nominated him in 1939 for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis. Daily graduated from the academy as an honor student in 1942 in the first accelerated three-year class of World War ll. Dailey served as the gunnery officer aboard the USS Edison, a Gleaves-class destroyer, one of 66 destroyers of that class built between 1938--42. They were still being constructed when the U.S. entered the war and were among the earliest destroyers to see action. Dailey was one of 16 officers and 260 enlisted men on the ship. Later in the war the upgraded Fletcher Class destroyer was introduced. Most Annapolis graduates were assigned as gunnery officers because of their extensive training. Civilian sailors were assigned to navigation and seamanship tasks, according to Dailey. Gleaves class destroyers had four 5-inch 38 caliber guns. The gun could shoot a 55-pound projectile 18,000 yards and was a workhorse weapon throughout the war. The Edison patrolled the Atlantic Ocean protecting commercial shipping from German air, sea and submarine attacks and took part in five major landing operations, Casablanca, Sicily, Anzio, Salerno and southern France, all part of a plan leading to the invasion of Normandy in June

FAMILY PROVIDED

Frank and Peggy Dailey were married in 1944 in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Here they are at a party given for Frank in the 1940s in New York.

U.S. NAVY

The USS Edison was the first warship in WW Il named after inventor Thomas Alva Edison, who received the Navy’s Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions to the Navy during WW l. The ship escorted merchant and other ships transiting the Atlantic and provided support to troops during WW ll invasions in Europe. The ship was launched in November 1940 and commissioned in January 1941. Frank Dailey was gunnery officer aboard the ship following his graduation with honors from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Frank Dailey at home in Alpharetta. Frank is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis and served aboard the destroyer USS Edison in World War ll. He is the author of three books. 1944. The objective of Dailey’s ship was to support infantry landings by destroying German defensive guns. The Battle of Anzio was the most difficult of the five landings, says Dailey. It took place between January and June 1944 when some 50,000 Allied troops staged an amphibious landing about 30 miles south of Rome near the town of Anzio. The Joint U.S.--Royal Navy Task Force 81 included some 400 ships of all kinds, including 28 destroyers to support the landings. Following the initial invasion, the Germans counterattacked and forced larger ships to move farther offshore, increasing the pressure on the

smaller, more nimble destroyers. The Edison provided fire support to troops on the beachhead and escorted cargo ships and transports bringing supplies to the beachhead. The Allies prevailed at a high cost. American casualties in the Anzio battle amounted to 24,000 killed and wounded plus thousands of cases of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases common in the marshes close to the beachhead. While in the Navy Frank undertook flight training in Pensacola on multiengine aircraft and obtained his wings in 1945. After training, he was assigned to a squadron based in Kodiak Alaska where he was a co-pilot. Later he flew missions as a pilot in the Aleutian Islands in a Lockheed P2V Neptune aircraft monitoring enemy radio transmissions and submarines. He spent more than 20 years in the Navy, and was active in the Naval Air Reserve for 20 years after the war where he commanded a squadron and advanced to Captain. On April 1 1944, Frank married Marguerite Virginia Parker (1920-2017) at St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Known as Peggy, she and Frank had eight

children, 18 grandchildren, 23 greatgrandchildren and two great great-grandchildren. Several years ago, they moved to Alpharetta to be near some of their children who live in town and surrounding communities. Frank is the author of three books, all of which are available on Amazon. “My Times with the Sisters and Other Events,” published in 2000, is a personal story of growing up as a student in Catholic schools. “The Triumph of Instrument Flight: A Retrospective in the Century of U.S. Aviation” was published in 2004 and “A Destroyer’s Role in World War II Naval Convoys and Invasion Landings” was published in 2009. He still maintains a website with additional stories, www. daileyint.com. Frank Dailey is a warrior hero who deserves a prominent place in our local history. 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.

NEWS

20 | December 28, 2023 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell

Bond: Continued from Page 5 Roswell Area Park. At the Nov. 27 City Council meeting, a contract with Osprey Management was approved to reconstruct sections of the boardwalk at Big Creek Park at 1600 Old Alabama Road. A second issuance of bond funds is expected before summer 2025. Access to detailed, up-to-date information about each project is available on the city’s bond dashboard.

Transportation projects Roswell elected officials and staff spent Feb. 8-12 poring over goals and finances for the coming year at a strategic planning retreat at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa. The 2024 budget proposal includes over $21 million for transportation projects, including trails, bridge replacements and road resurfacing. Roswell reopened the realigned Oxbo Road intersection June 30 after a 2021 city-funded investigation into the project showed the delays and additional costs were the result of 15 years of mismanagement by Roswell city staff.

In Memoriam

Genevieve Rowsey

Gene (80), a longtime resident of Roswell, passed away on November 30, 2023 at her home away from home in Tequesta, Florida. Born in Chicago, Illinois on January 3, 1943, her mother and father moved the family to Hollywood, Florida, where Gene attended St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She furthered her education at Saint Leo College and continued on at Florida State University, where, as a member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. Gene’s teaching career began at St. Jude’s Elementary School in Dunwoody, Ga. and concluded at Mountain Park Elementary School in Roswell, Ga. Gene loved teaching her students and working with her fellow teachers. Retiring after many years of teaching, Gene was able to live out her lifelong dream of having horses and animals in her backyard at “Easy Acres” in the heart of Roswell. Gene was also very active in ALTA tennis in her neighborhood subdivision and enjoyed numerous other sports with her family and friends, including golf at Brookfield Country Club. After many years on the “Farm” Gene and Neil decided to live full time at their home in Tequesta,

Florida to enjoy the sunshine, walks on the beach, and deep-sea fishing. Gene is survived by her husband of 58 years, Neil Rowsey; her sons and daughters-in-law, Tom (Tricia) Rowsey, Dan Rowsey, and Mike Rowsey (Laura). Also always close to her heart were her sisters-in-law in Colorado and Wisconsin, and brothersin-law in Houston, TX and Hobe Sound, FL, as well as her many nieces and nephews. Finally, Gene, affectionately known as “Deedy” by her three grandchildren is also survived by: Tommy, Peter and Ella Rowsey. Gene was preceded in death by her parents, Cyril and Genevieve Garvey, and her brothers, Dan and Pat Garvey. A visitation for family and friends will be held between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on January 4, 2024 at the Roswell Green Lawn Cemetery, 950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076. The funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell, GA on January 5, 2024 at 10:30 am. To offer your condolences and share cherished memories, please visit www. roswellfuneralhome.com If you feel so compelled, in lieu of flowers, the family simply asks that you make a donation to your own favorite charity.

The project was revived in 2016 after voters passed the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. The cost kept climbing across the next seven years as the project faced delays. The realigned road, with reduced speed limits, narrow lanes, delineator islands and various street features ultimately cost $18.5 million— more than double the original estimate. Another project from the 2016 TSPLOST moved forward this year. The City Council voted unanimously Dec. 11 to modify the current alignment of the Big Creek Parkway back to the original design that voters saw when the sales tax was proposed. The Georgia Department of Transportation will construct a bridge over Ga. 400 for the Big Creek Parkway project about halfway between Holcomb Bridge Road and Mansell Road. The original proposal in 2016 called for a direct connection between Warsaw Road and Old Alabama Road via the proposed Big Creek Parkway bridge over Ga. 400. Because construction costs have ballooned since 2016, the city requested $40 million from the local delegation of the Georgia General Assembly to assist with the project.

CITY OF ROSWELL PUBLIC HEARING PLACE: ROSWELL CITY HALL, 38 HILL ST, SUITE 215 DATE & TIME: THURSDAY JANUARY 4TH 2024 AT 10AM PURPOSE: APPLICATION FOR FULL POURING/LIQUOR/BEER/WINE/ SUNDAY SALES APPLICANT: ANIL KUMAR / ROSWELL UNION CORPORATION BUSINESS NAME: DECCAN SPICE INDIAN CUISINE BUSINESS ADDRESS: 10745 ALPHARETTA HWY, ROSWELL, GA 30076

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DEATH NOTICES Harry Robinson, 79, of Alpharetta, passed away on December 18, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Wayne Shaffer, 95, of Roswell, passed away on December 18, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Shake up at City Hall The City of Roswell government has undergone a change in leadership structure over the past year, according to interviews and documents obtained by Appen Media. City Administrator Randy Knighton said the “Reinvent Roswell” initiative involves an examination of the city’s policies and procedures; the organizational structure of staff; and internal and external communications. After 14 years with the city, Deputy City Administrator Michael Fischer stepped down in March. Rich Rhinehart was named Roswell’s chief operating officer April 11, a position that had previously not existed in the city’s organizational chart. His assignment signaled the first hire of the new governance system, and Fischer’s the first departure. When the council voted Aug. 15 to appropriate $2.2 million in funding for reorganization in this year’s budget, the purpose was to increase efficiency and restructure the city government into a more service-oriented organization, Communications Director Julie Brechbill said.

George Wilson, Jr., 82, of Milton, passed away on December 14, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

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CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-23-AB-32

Continued from Page 3 At an October 2022 community meeting, Trademark Property CEO Terry Montesi said the redevelopment was contingent on the number of apartments. Montesi said for every 50 apartments removed, the project lost $12 million in value. He said New York Life, which owns the North Point Mall, had pledged more than $174 million to the proposed redevelopment. The developers were eligible to present new plans to the City Council in May, but no other major rehaul of the mall has been proposed since. Strides in 2023 While new plans for the mall are still underway, the city has approved other developments to spur activity along the North Point corridor. In April, councilmembers approved Windward Park, a 47-acre mixed-use development off North Point and Windward parkways that is slated to include office, residential and retail components. The Gathering, a multi-use development including single-family homes, townhomes and a commercial component, is also coming to the North Point area. The City Council approved a rezoning for a 24-acre development at the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and Morrison Parkway in 2021. Construction is set to begin in 2024. Development of Lakeview Park at Haynes Bridge Road and Ga. 400 is also underway. The 62-acre mixed-use site will feature some 60 townhomes and 250

Please note that this meeting will be a virtual meeting, conducted online using Zoom meetings. PLACE To Attend the Virtual Meeting: Using Your Computer, Tablet or Smartphone Go to: https://zoom.us Meeting ID: 830 5365 8426 Dial In: +1 646 558 8656 US January 3, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

The red highlighted area shows the North Point activity center in Alpharetta. While the City Council dissolved the area’s tax allocation district in October, efforts to reinvigorate the major commercial corridor continue. apartments, more than 31,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and 630,000 square feet of office use. More recently, the City Council approved Pickle and Social, a forthcoming pickleball, dining and social venue on 6 acres along Rock Mill Road and Ga. 400 in the North Point area. Firefly and Ecco Park, both townhome communities under construction this year, also hope to spur activity in North Point by drawing residents to the area. Looking ahead In addition to the upcoming mall redevelopment plans, an ongoing economic feasibility study for a professional sports

Randy Knighton City of Roswell Kurt Wilson City Administrator Notice of Public Hearing Mayor The following item will be considered by the Planning Commission at a public hearing on January 16, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Roswell City Hall Council Chambers, 38 Hill St. Roswell, Georgia. a. UDC Text Amendment An ordinance to amend the Unified Development Code by modifying Article 4, Corridor and Nodes Districts, Article 5, Downtown Historic Districts, Article 6, Employment Districts and Article 13, Administration. b. UDC Text Amendment An ordinance to amend the Unified Development Code by modifying Article 12, Environmental Protection and Article 13, Administration. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250), within two (2) years, file a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law is available in the office of the City Attorney. The complete file is available for public view at the Roswell Planning & Zoning Office, 38 Hill Street, Suite G-30, Roswell, Georgia (770) 817-6720, or planningandzoning@roswellgov.com. Refer to www.roswellgov.com.

arena at North Point is set to be completed in 2024. Assistant City Administrator Drinkard said the city approved the study at the end of January, but because the cost came in just under $50,000, it was not presented at a City Council meeting. Sports facility consultant CAA Icon is handling the study, which will analyze market demand, market validation and financial feasibility. Drinkard said the study was projected to take between 12 and 18 months. With a January 2023 launch, the study is on track to conclude summer 2024. At the same time, just to the north, Forsyth County is hoping to attract a professional hockey tenant to The Gathering at South Forsyth, a $2 billion mixeduse development pending approval by the County Commission.

CITY OF ROSWELL PUBLIC NOTICE PLACE: ROSWELL CITY HALL, 38 HILL STREET, SUITE 215 DATE & TIME: 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 4, 2024 PURPOSE: Full Pouring/Liquor, Beer & Wine/Sunday Sales

PURPOSE Eating Establishment Consumption on Premises Beer, Wine & Sunday Sales APPLICANT Delta Chapter Ramen LLC d/b/a Kyuramen 735 North Main Street Suite 1700 Alpharetta, GA 30009 Owner: Delta Chapter Ramen LLC Registered Agent: Bing Jie Wang

Office Space for Lease Close to Downtown Alpharetta Small private office space (unfurnished) available in Appen Media Office close to Downtown Alpharetta (319 North Main Street, Alpharetta). All utilities included, Internet included (within reason), 24/7 access. Space is upstairs in area of Appen Newsroom. Private, quiet, and open. Approximately 200 sq. ft. (14’ x 14’). $/600 per month, first/ last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references.

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Office Space for Lease Close to Downtown Alpharetta Small private office space (unfurnished) available in Appen Media Office close to Downtown Alpharetta (319 North Main Street, Alpharetta). All utilities included, Internet included (within reason), 24/7 access. Space is upstairs in area of Appen Newsroom. Private, quiet, and open. Approximately 200 sq. ft. (14’ x 14’). $/600 per month, first/last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references. Space would be perfect for a bookkeeper or a self-employed person. Contact via text or email: Ray Appen at 770-527-4042 or RayAppen@Gmail.com

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It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.™ Receive a free 7-year warranty with qualifying purchase* – valued at $735.

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FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF 1-855-417-1306 With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445

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24 | December 28, 2023 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | AppenMedia.com/Alpharetta_Roswell