Milton Herald - March 7, 2024

City officials announced the

Farm winery applicant asks for deferred hearing

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — The applicants for an alcohol beverage license at the farm winery on Blackmaral Lane requested the public hearing be deferred to the April 8 City Council meeting.

After deferrals in November, December and February, a resolution to the ongoing saga is at least four weeks away.

According to the meeting agenda published Feb. 29, the deferral allows time for the applicant, city officials and surrounding residents “to work toward resolving issues between them without either side resorting to litigation.”

Councilmembers have served as negotiators between the applicants, Jim and Daryn Rosenberger, and residents in the Providence Plantation community.

Beginning in October, when surrounding residents first learned about the public hearing for an alcohol beverage license, councilwomen Carol Cookerly and Andrea Verhoff met with them to hear concerns.

After failing to reach a compromise between the winery and the neighborhood, new councilmen Phil Cranmer and Doug Hene attempted to reach a

compromise between both parties in February.

While the applicants have eliminated the onsite tasting room, a resolution with surrounding neighbors continues to fall short.

On Feb. 16 City Manager Steve Krokoff presented several residents with a proposal that would place seven restrictions and prohibitions on the winery, including no public tastings, no appointments and a limit on commercial vehicle trips.

The residents, including Providence Plantation HOA President Sarah Moen, the Buxton family, Craig Franklin and Steve Lanham, rejected a compromise.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

A photo from November shows Jim and Daryn Rosenberger’s farm winery, D’Rose Vintners, located at 13555 Blackmaral Lane.

March 4 public hearing for an alcohol beverage license at the property is deferred to April 8.

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DOJ busts Roswell lab owner for kickbacks

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

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

Maloney and Capstone have also agreed to cooperate with the Department

POLICE BLOTTER

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

Police arrest landlord after drunken dispute

MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a Milton man Feb. 21 after he went to his rental property on Harmony Court without permission, drinking on the home’s back porch.

When police arrived, the landlord told police he did not know who his renters were, but that he had gone to the house to make sure it was secure, according to the police report. Police said the landlord had slurred speech and smelled of alcohol.

A woman the suspect had been arguing with on the property told police she told him not to go to the property and that the tenants did not pay rent.

The landlord told police the lease ended in January, and in response, police explained the eviction process and that he needs written permission or written notice to be on the property.

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

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

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

Police noted the suspect appeared not to comprehend he was breaking landlord/ tenant laws.

The tenant arrived at the scene and showed police a copy of the rental agreement, signed by both parties, which said the landlord was to vacate the property by the end of January.

Police charged the landlord with disorderly conduct and transported him to the Fulton County Jail, after being refused at the North Fulton County Jail for failing to cooperate with jail staff.

Bankrupt company swindles homeowner

MILTON, Ga. — A Milton man reported to police Feb. 23 that he entered into a contract with a company to install a pool but that the company went bankrupt before the project was completed and had forged a $10,000 withdrawal from his bank.

The man said he had paid the company a total of $160,000 but received a letter three months after work began stating a lien had been filed against his real property for a debt owed of close to $12,000 based on an order made by the company, according to the incident report.

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

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

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

After he was unable to contact the contractor, the man told police another company employee went to his residence and informed him of the company’s bankruptcy, that the contractor collected all the truck keys and was closing shop. The man said the employee also told him he was not being paid for the work he had done on the project, the report says.

Two suspects sought in theft at Home Depot

MILTON, Ga. — An employee at Home Depot on Windward Parkway reported to police Feb. 24 that two men had stolen $5,100 in DeWalt tools from the store the week before.

Surveillance footage showed the two suspects, who drove a Dodge Charger, conceal the tools in three large tote bags, place them in shopping carts and head toward the main entrance to exit, according to the incident report. The footage also showed the cart locking up and the suspects grabbing one tote each, leaving the third behind.

The employee said one of the suspects was involved in a previous theft from Home Depot on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell.

spring 2024 Learn to play LACROSSE clinics

Metro

area school districts log top rankings in SAT, ACT

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2023

formance.

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

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

Milton, the spring market is here!

The spring real estate market is heating up, and we are looking for a match for several buyer clients. We love to make transactions as easy as possible and have well-qualified buyers with flexible timing ready to purchase. Please contact us or have your agent reach out if you have a home or property that fits the criteria below.

• Milton or Cambridge High Schools, up to $1.15M, no pool, primary upstairs is a must

• Milton, up to $1.1M, ideally with an unfinished basement, flat backyard, open to renovations

• Crabapple Crossing Elementary School, up to $1.3M with a basement (Stuart Park, Danbury Park, Ruth’s Farm, Bethany Commons)

• Milton, up to $1.8M, turnkey with a pool (or space for a pool)

• Land up to $250K/acre, 3-15 flat acres, Milton or Cambridge High Schools

• Milton, up to $2M, 2+ acres, 6 bedrooms with an office

• Milton, up to $2.5M, Lake Haven, Six Hills, Hayfield or Valmont

• Milton, estate home up to $7M, walkout pool, 2-3+ acres

• Cambridge or Milton High Schools, up to $5M, 5+ bedrooms

• Birmingham Falls Elementary School, up to $1.6M, turnkey with a pool

• Milton, Canton or South Forsyth, up to $3M, 4+ bedrooms and bathrooms

• Milton or Alpharetta, up to $800K, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 3,000+ sq. ft.

• Cherokee, up to $800K, main-level bedroom, side garage, minimum half acre

Theatre offers belonging, kinship to actors with special needs

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

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

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

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

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

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

“Our actors are carrying all the scenes and are doing just fine, and when they go up a little bit, they rescue each other,” Goodfriend said.

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

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

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

Actors

of “Into the Woods, Jr.,” a musical composed of various classic fairy tales opening March 7. The theater, housed in the Marcus Jewish Community Center, stands as the only professional company in Georgia that features actors with special needs.

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

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

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

obsession with his pet cow.

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

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

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

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

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

“Yes, you have,” Goodfriend chimed in.

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

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

PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

with Jerry’s Habima Theatre rehearse for the upcoming production

Kim Goodfriend, center, is the founding artistic director of Jerry’s Habima Theatre. Amy Kahn, left, and Jonathan Roytenberg, right, have roles in the upcoming production “Into the Woods, Jr.” which runs from March 7 to March 17.

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Alpharetta amends application for downtown performances

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Manning said the permit requires annual renewal, but if performers

apply at the end of the year the permit will roll over into the following year.

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

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

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

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

Pocket park performance locations

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

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

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

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

• Alley between Smokejack and Berkshire Hathaway

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

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

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

MOM,

“A second chance at happiness!” You said when you and dad purchased our farm in 1978.

“Listen”, you said. “Quiet! That’s country living!”

“Taste”, you said, “that’sahomegrowntomatooutofourgarden!”

The quiet has been destroyed. We were threatened with arrest for legal gardening practices. Our horses were shot with paint balls and the guilty got away with it.

“Ihavetogethome!”“Thoseboysaregoingtohurt(myhorse),Liberty!” Were your final words to me at the hospital. I am sorry you never made it.

Eternal tears were given after burying three of your sons; then the “City of Milton” added more when they broke countless laws.

Justice is coming, Mom. All will know “A Story That Must Be Told.”

– Your Proud Son

Artist guild, collective showcase work in ‘Women of Color’ exhibit

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

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

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

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

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

Monika Mittal, president of the Artist Guild, introduced several artists to describe their work as well as herself, whose acrylic paintings are often

symbolic whether it be of a feather for freedom or droplets, alluding to a lesson she learned from her mother.

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

Sistagraphy Executive Director Furery Terriy Reid spoke of the stories behind her photographs. One titled “Stand for Justice” shows a group of people holding onto a white cross during a commemoration ceremony for the Chattahoochee Brick Company. Written on the cross were the names of those who worked there.

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

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

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

See EXHIBIT, Page 11

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Monika Mittal, president of the Johns Creek Arts Center’s Artist Guild, speaks about her artwork hanging in the “Women of Color” exhibition at Emory Johns Creek Hospital Feb. 28. The exhibition, located in two corridors at the hospital, was a joint effort with Decatur-based photography collective Sistagraphy.

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

Johns Creek Arts Center marks building upgrades

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

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

The renovation was entirely funded through a $96,000 grant from The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, which supports local nonprofit organizations. The grant also

Exhibit:

Continued from Page 10

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

“My art is an honor to the present moment,” said Jaswani, also a published poet. “My art is a love affair with everything in the moment. My art is the key to freedom from everything in the next moment, or the moment that

funded a new press, allowing the Arts Center to offer printmaking classes.

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

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

has passed. My art is that one moment of purity brought by distillation of all the thoughts. My art is the culmination of many such brief moments into prolonged sense of calm.”

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

JOHNS CREEK ARTS CENTER/PROVIDED

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Campus 244 highlights growth and Phase Two rollout

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Hayden Sumlin

THE WILBERT GROUP/PROVIDED

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

THE GEORGETOWN COMPANY/PROVIDED

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

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Alpharetta drops plans to prioritize parks bond

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

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

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

At the retreat, City Councilman Dan Merkel and Councilman Brian Will supported an agenda item to consider prioritizing the bond projects.

City staff tentatively scheduled the item for discussion Feb. 26, but the topic did not appear on the City Council’s agenda at that meeting.

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

“With all the members of council saying they're satisfied, there's really no reason to have a discussion because we're not going to be moving any money around,” Lagerbloom said. “And I don't want the public to think

that we're trying to shuffle money from one project to the next. Right now, we're just maintaining the status quo.”

Plans for funding

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conceptual plans for the Farmhouse Park trail, a staircase and path that will lead to the site, were presented in January 2023 at the City Council’s previous retreat.

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

At its March 4 meeting, the City Council is slated to discuss the $7.5 million that was approved for the Alpha Loop in the 2021 parks bond.

The council’s authority

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

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

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

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

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

If the city adopted such a resolution, the bond money and interest could be used on something substantially similar or to pay off debt on the bond.

Esswein emphasized councilmembers cannot arbitrarily make changes. The City Council would have to define its reasoning for the change in a public presentation.

A defense of Farmhouse

Alpharetta Natural Resources Commissioner Michael Buchanan, who is also a local filmmaker and author, wrote and co-directed “Saving Farm House,” a documentary detailing the history of the Farmhouse site as a social and trading hub.

Buchanan said he was unaware of the site until some six months before releasing the documentary. For him, supporting the Farmhouse Park is about raising awareness of where Alpharetta began.

See BOND, Page 15

Bond:

Continued from Page 14

Buchanan said visiting the site for the first time and seeing people’s names and the date “1912” carved into the stone of the rebuilt dam made him realize the site’s significance.

With rapid growth and development abound in Alpharetta, he said it is comforting to know there are a couple of acres nestled away that have remained unchanged since the 1850s.

“And it's one of those things where, once it's gone, it's gone,” Buchanan said.

Buchanan spoke at a Feb. 26 City Council meeting, frustrated that plans for the park have not moved forward. He also criticized the previous discussions of prioritizing other bond projects over Farmhouse.

“To do so would bring into question whether or not voters could trust the council in some of these future referendums,” Buchanan told the council. “I would think that’s not a road elected officials would travel.”

A council perspective

Alpharetta City Councilman Donald Mitchell is a longtime supporter of the Farmhouse project. Mitchell and former Councilman Ben Burnett championed the addition of the Farmhouse project in the months leading up to the November 2021

contact me at shelby@appenmedia.com

bond.

When discussions at the retreat turned to Farmhouse, Mitchell blasted any suggestion of shifting money from the project.

“So much of Alpharetta has been changed, and I think in many ways made better, but it's a way to honor our predecessors,” Mitchell said in an interview Feb. 28. “And it would be the first heritage park that the city has. And there's an authenticity about it that other parks will never be able to have because it's our original settlement.”

Mitchell also emphasized the importance of honoring what Alpharetta residents voted for in the bond referendum.

“Especially, when 75 percent of our citizens have voted for a project, it's important for us to get it done and to do it like we've promised and committed to,” he said. “And if we can't do that, we shouldn't be in office. If we can't be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, we shouldn’t be in office.”

CARL APPEN/APPEN

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

Who you call matters

Brought to you by –Tracey Craft, Realtor®,

The Craft Dolan Team, Ansley Real Estate | Christie’s International

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Kloster Group Proudly Supports Area Non-Profits

Furkids: Rescue, Shelters, Sanctuary

Brought to you by – HOME Real Estate, Kloster Group

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FURKIDS/PROVIDED

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

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

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

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

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Patrick Malloy Communities’ Upper East River

Recognized with a Phillip Trammell Shutze Award

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

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

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

the creation of Upper East River.

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

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

Patrick Malloy, President and

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

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

providing exceptional living experiences.

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

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

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

Five Tips for Incorporating Spring Trends Into Home Decor

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

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

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

1. Lighten up with pastel colors.

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

2. Bring in natural elements.

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

3. Update textiles and fabrics.

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

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

5. Introduce lighter furniture and accents.

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

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

Compiled and edited by Angela Valente, Marketing Copywriter/Copyeditor

Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad

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Remarrying and Wills

Brought to you by – Geerdes & Associates

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

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

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

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

not end up inheriting your home and assets.

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

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

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SINATRA and FRIENDS Visit Post 201 Friday, Mar. 15

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

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

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

Alpharetta approves proposal to recondition facility at iconic Black school

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta officials have approved new redevelopment and rehabilitation plans at the site of the Bailey Johnson school, a historic facility that served Black North Fulton students through the 1960s.

At its Feb. 26 meeting, the City Council approved a change in zoning conditions to allow for the demolition and reconstruction of the school’s historic gymnasium. Developers will reconstruct the facility with a “similar size and design.”

Plans also call for a three-story office building to the west of the school and a five-level parking deck in the northwest corner of the site. The three buildings that make up the Bailey Johnson school will be rehabilitated and designated as a historic property.

Opened in 1950 as the Alpharetta Colored School, the Bailey Johnson school on Kimball Bridge Road served Black students in first through 12th grade until the desegregation of North Fulton County schools in 1967. The school enrolled roughly 100 students

from North Fulton to Dunwoody.

It was renamed in 1953 after George Bailey, a blacksmith in Alpharetta who donated the land, and Warren Johnson, an advocate of Black

GRAPHICS BY CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

This illustration shows new plans for the historic Bailey Johnson school on Kimball Bridge Road. The school buildings, right, will be rehabilitated and preserved. The gymnasium, building 2, will be demolished and rebuilt, and new structures will be added on the western portion of the site.

education who was formerly enslaved.

Fulton County Schools previously owned the site and primarily used it as a storage facility. Project developer The Garren purchased the property for $6 million in 2022.

The City Council approved site plans for the property in 2021, which called for a 120,000-square-foot office building, parking deck and an adaptive reuse of the school and gymnasium.

At the Feb. 26 meeting, developers said the gymnasium has foundation issues that would require additional bracing for the building to meet code requirements, and there is a hole in the roof that has caused severe water damage.

Construction is set to roll out in two phases. Developers will first rehabilitate the school, build the new gymnasium and construct a 149-space parking lot. In phase two, the parking lot will be replaced with the parking deck and new office building.

Developers emphasized the importance of preserving the character of the school. The new gymnasium will incorporate unique design elements and red brick to match the original facility.

Pat Miller, president emeritus of the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society, said project developer Bruce Fernald reached out to her. She said Fernald and his team have consulted the Historical Society and the Bailey Johnson alumni association to understand the significance of the school.

“I think the resulting product is going to be something really unique,” Miller said. “He will have a better story to tell than he did when he started out just rehabbing an old school, and Alpharetta will have something it can be really proud of.”

Alpharetta Natural Resources Commissioner Michael Buchanan addressed councilmembers at the meeting, requesting a portion of the gymnasium floor be preserved to honor the basketball team that played there.

“I think for the people that played on that court to be able to walk in there and to step on it again, even if it’s a small piece of it in some way, I think would be very meaningful, and it would enhance our efforts to say, ‘We are preserving this the best we can,’” Buchanan said.

The 1964-65 Bailey Johnson High School basketball team won the Georgia Interscholastic Association Class-B State Championship. Eight members of the team were presented championship rings at City Hall last July.

City Councilman John Hipes proposed a nonbinding amendment for developers to work with city staff to build the gymnasium and update one of the existing school buildings to make their setbacks consistent with the new construction on the site.

But, Councilman Donald Mitchell took issue with altering another part of the school building, especially while the city is unsure if Kimball Bridge can be widened west of Northwinds Parkway. Kimball Bridge is currently being widened from Waters Road to Northwinds.

The motion passed 4-2, with Mitchell and Mayor Jim Gilvin opposed. Councilman Doug DeRito was absent from the vote.

This rendering shows the proposed new gymnasium building, left, at the historic Bailey Johnson school on Kimball Bridge Road. At a Feb. 26 meeting, the Alpharetta City Council approved a change in zoning conditions to demolish and reconstruct the

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City of Roswell loads up on land

City purchases properties for parks, economic boost

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell officials are expanding park and recreation programs after agreeing to dish out $6.5 million for more than 20 acres that border Roswell Area Park, once the site of Crabapple Middle School.

The City Council unanimously approved the purchase at its Feb. 26 meeting, using funds from the $180 million bond referendum passed in 2022. The area is already zoned for civic use.

“This was high priority for quite a long time now,” City Councilman Will Morthland said.

The building would alleviate some of the pressure on the Bill Johnson Community Center, he said. The city has already had an agreement with Fulton County Schools to use the fields, he added.

Since the new facility for Crabapple Middle School opened in 2021, the school district has used the building as an administrative center. The contract includes a six-month occupancy clause to provide transition time to relocate administrative services.

According to a city newsletter, the final purchase and closing on the property is pending a due diligence review.

“I look forward to this transaction going through and to your increasing the park space for the city,” said Katha Stuart, Fulton County Board of Education member who represents the area.

The contract with Fulton County Schools also includes the right of first refusal on a Mimosa Boulevard property that currently houses Independence High School and the Teaching Museum North, if the school district decides to sell it over the next three years.

City buys more land

Councilmembers also approved the purchase of two more properties, one along Green Street for $1 million and another along Alpharetta Street for $1.1 million. Both tracts are about half an acre.

Roswell resident Janet Russell informed the City Council of word circulating about city plans to construct a parking garage on the Green Street property. The bond referendum passed in 2022 included $20 million for a public parking deck

The City of Roswell is transitioning to a new retirement plan provider after staff uncovered that the unfunded liability in its pension plan more than doubled over the past decade.

Against the actuarial assumption that the funded status would increase, the trend has gone in the opposite direction. Liability has outpaced assets, causing unfunded pension liability to grow from $9.4 million in 2014 to $22.3 million in 2023.

“That’s so illogical, it’s not even funny in the financial world,” Mayor Kurt Wilson said at the Feb. 13 meeting of the Administration and Finance and Recreation and Park Committee. “I can’t imagine when you guys first got this. You must have been aghast when you saw this … Talk about lack of fiduciary responsibility.”

The city’s current unfunded liability payment is $3.2 million, representing around 65 percent of its contribution.

Joe Griffin, an actuary working with the city, told officials at the committee meeting that the unforeseen trend is likely due to the Georgia Municipal Association’s assumption based on the larger group of clients, rather than the city alone. For its defined benefit (DB) pension plan, the city was a participating member in the GMA’s Georgia Municipal Employee Benefit System Retirement Fund, created in 1965.

For the past three decades, the city has used MissionSquare as a vendor for its defined contribution (DC) plan.

downtown.

“I’m just going to tell you that if you think you’re going to put a parking garage there, it’s really a big mistake,” Russell said, highlighting that the property is in front of a 600-car parking garage slated for the oncoming Southern Post mixed-use development.

She said a parking garage on the property would put stress on Green Street, which she said is the width of less than two cars, has no sidewalks, and there’s a nursing home nearby.

“The nursing home will be the next to go because we love our elderly and our handicapped and our underserved so much that we’ll kick them out,” Russell said.

Roswell’s pension plan liability balloons to over $22 million Our goal here is two things: One, we want to protect licensed massage therapists and do away with illicit massage therapy establishments.”

CHARLES WEISS

Roswell resident

But, best practices call for a competitive bid process every 5 years for retirement plan providers.

“So, what we’re seeing is losses after losses after losses,” Griffin said.

All the city’s assets will be in the hands of Transamerica going forward, which includes $49.4 million in its DC plan, $98 million in its frozen DB plan as well as its deferred compensation plan. The pension plan has been closed to new hires since 2011, and its number of active employees has dwindled from 500 to 175.

The unanimous decision at the City Council meeting Feb. 26 is expected to result in more than $2 million in savings over the next five years.

11 the second reading of proposed changes to the city’s code of ordinances related to massage establishments. Councilmembers also voted to extend the moratorium on new massage businesses from March 11 to March 12 to accommodate the deferral.

City Attorney David Davidson made last-minute changes to the ordinance which were not available for review prior to the meeting. He said he had gathered additional feedback from the attorney for the Georgia Chapter to the Massage Therapy Association of America.

But, Mayor Wilson told Russell the property is part of the city’s “economic development strategy.” He later told Appen Media the property on Alpharetta Street is a part of this same “strategy.”

The City Council also approved a budget amendment for an 8.73-acre property at the corner of Woodstock and Bowen roads that had been purchased for $4.5 million, paid out of the city’s General Fund.

Staff told Appen Media the city is still determining how the property will be used, though the Atlanta Journal Constitution reported Oct. 13 the

city would redevelop the site into a “park and recreation facility with greenspace.” A city newsletter from November said it would be for “civic use, including preserving part of the property for parkland.”

Staff said the city has the option to reimburse the General Fund with bond money if the determined use is consistent with projects identified in the referendum.

Massage establishments

In other matters Feb. 26, the City Council voted to defer till March

Davidson led the City Council through the adjustments, drafted onto printed handouts and projected to the rest of the Council Chamber. Some updates included clarifying the role of a registered agent and the requirement for massages to be performed by a Georgia licensed massage therapist.

Roswell resident Charles Weiss, who operates a chiropractic business in the city, listed a number of issues with the proposal, emphasizing that it wasn’t available online before the meeting.

“Our goal here is two things: One, we want to protect licensed massage therapists and do away with illicit massage therapy establishments,” Weiss said. “This law is not accomplishing that in its current form.”

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Jim Fallon, a retirement plan consultant, and Roswell Human Resources Director Linda Warren explain the city’s decision to switch providers at the City Council meeting Feb. 26.

MARCH

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

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

When: March 8-24, times vary

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets starting at $44

More info: cityspringstheatre.com

THE RUBY SUNRISE

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

When: March 8-24, times vary

Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta

ROSWELL DANCE STARZ PRESENTS: CHARLIE AND THE DANCE FACTORY

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

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

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

Cost: $16.50

More info: roswell365.com

A NIGHT WITH DADS 2: THE DADDENING

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

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

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

Cost: $15-28

More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

THE ART OF MOVEMENT GALLERY EXHIBIT

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

When: March 13-May 4, business hours

Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238

Canton Street, Alpharetta

More info: artsalpharetta.org

POP-UP PERFORMANCE SERIES: MARLA FEENEY BAND

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

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

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

Cost: $35

More info: roswellartsfund.org/popup

THE SLAVE DWELLING PROJECT: LECTURE AND AUTHOR DISCUSSION

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

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

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

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

More info: roswell365.com

JOHNS CREEK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS BRILLIANT BEETHOVEN

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

featuring soloists and the Johns Creek Chorale.

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

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

Cost: $20-50

More info: johnscreeksymphony.org

INTO THE WOODS JR.

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

When: March 7-17, times vary

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

More info: atlantajcc.org

A walk in the woods en route to lifelong memories

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t be in a hurry.

Home Demonstration Clubs were vital to past farm life

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

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

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

buggy days, she recalls”)

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

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

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

1936, “Roswell 4-H Club”)

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

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

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

borne Road and featured a demonstration on storage space solutions. (Atlanta Constitution, Sep. 23, 1953, “Storage is topic”) Elsie Barrow’s story demonstrates how the Home Demonstration Club was a place not only to learn but for women to visit with neighbors and become part of a community. When H.B. and Elsie Barrow moved to a home on Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody in 1947, Elsie felt like “it was the end of the world.” However, soon the Methodist minister rode over on his bike. Then, Ethel Spruill and Arva Floyd came to visit and soon Elsie “… began to love the people and loved the Home Demonstration Club.” (City of Dunwoody Remembers, 1994 oral history, DeKalb History Center archives, available on YouTube)

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

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

PAST TENSE

A remarkable house born of two centuries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SCHULZ FAMILY/PROVIDED

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

the Milton Senior Center, has a beautiful Moravian star painted on one ceiling.

It is the only other example of this technique in the area. The Rushton ceiling has a geometric design rather than a star.

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

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

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

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

RUSHTON FAMILY/PROVIDED

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

MEDIA

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

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

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

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

Jackie Mannaert, the owner, says

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

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

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

BOB MEYERS

Columnist

BOB MEYERS/APPEN

What services does the Fulton County Extension Office offer?

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

Soil testing

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

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

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

Plant disease testing

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

Bag

we may ask are: When was the last time your soil was tested? and What is the current growing environment for the plant and has anything in that environment changed recently? Sometimes the nutrients are at the appropriate levels, and the plant is in its ideal environment, but it is still showing signs of struggling. Plants and grasses can get diseases from the environment and insects, and it’s important to identify the proper cause before determining a control strategy. We try to identify the disease in the office, but sometimes we send a plant sample to the lab for additional testing. The results that you get back are similar to the soil testing results. They identify the disease or problem and give recommendations to combat the problem. If you have any questions on how to submit a plant sample, please do not hesitate to contact

About the Author

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

the Fulton County Extension Office.

Water testing

We not only offer services centered around landscaping, but water as well. Municipal water is heavily regulated and must meet standards that have been put in place by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As a result, water is tested regularly to ensure that it meets those standards. The most common cause of problems that residents may see are caused by issues that occur after the water has entered the home. This may be due to corrosion of the plumbing in the house, or even materials used in the plumbing lines. You may notice that your water is suddenly tasting weird, your fixtures have buildup, or there is discoloration in your sink, tub or toilets. Testing your water lets you know if

Learn more

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

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

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

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

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

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

you need to install filtration systems or softeners in your water system.

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

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

Happy gardening!

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

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

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY UGA EXTENSION

UGA Soil Sample

Water Faucet

A new take on attending the ‘old school’

D.C. AIKEN Guest Columnist dcaiken.com

Since we are in February and we just recently went through Groundhog Day, I’d like to reference Punxsutawney Phil who predicts an early spring and less than six weeks left of cold weather. However, unlike him, our Warriors of Wall Street have a different outlook with more than six weeks of higher rates.

If the warriors are correct, it will be “painful” but better times are ahead.

The Consumer Price Index was released this week, showing prices at the “core” level rose by .4% while the market was expecting a rise of .3% and the overall rate, for the past 12 months, to be 3.9%.

Our “Warriors of Wall Street”

pushed the 10-year Treasury north of 4.3% for the first time since the Thanksgiving holiday, and mortgage rates are once again approaching 7% on fears that inflation is not subsiding yet. I’m not sure what they are thinking since it is not like we have runaway inflation, and if we look back over the past six months, we are still close to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target goal.

Regardless of how you look at it, inflation has moved from over 9% to below 4%. There is little to no chance that the Federal Reserve will raise rates this year and most likely will begin a series of cuts this year, which may happen by late spring. But our “Wall Street Warriors” felt the need to push the 10-year Treasury and, ultimately, mortgage rates to higher levels.

The other thing is that they only look at the overall number and not what may be driving it to slightly

higher levels than their expectations.

Take motor vehicle insurance, which is included in the Consumer Price Index number. On average, motor vehicle Insurance has risen by 20% on a year-over-year basis. Call me crazy, but I am pretty sure our Federal Reserve policies for tightening and lowering rates have little to nothing to do with car insurance rates. Just wait until they see what the increase in homeowner’s insurance is doing. But it is one component that makes up our consumer price index.

The good news is that this, too, shall pass, and rates will most likely push back below the 4% mark on the U.S. 10-year Treasury over the next six weeks, which should take mortgage rates closer to the 6.5% mark. Like the weather, we will most likely endure a little more pain/cold weather and will also see marginally higher rates for the

next several weeks. However, the underlying slowing of the economy and lower inflation are still on the horizon. We will likely be heading back towards the mid-6 % range by mid to late March as our “Warriors” finally realize that the unprecedented Federal Reserve rate hikes over the past two years have truly controlled inflation and “cooled” our overall economy.

Hope you have a nice remainder of your week and be careful out there!

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.

No scraps at Daytona; there’s always the Oscars

MIKE TASOS Columnist

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

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

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

I watched the entire Daytona 500. Every single lap. I was certain there

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

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

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

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

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

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

too-long broadcast. Maybe Chris Rock can find someone to brawl with now that Will Smith has earned a 10-year exile to the green room.

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

Oscar and I rarely see things eyeto-eye. But this year I liked a flick that I found on Netflix, “Nyad,” that starred nominees Annette Benning and Jodie Foster. It was noteworthy in that Diana Nyad kept trying to swim from Cuba to Florida all those times, finally… Well, I’ll not spoil it. Rest assured, it’s worth

your time.

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

None of those films or actors will win.

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

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

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Winery:

Continued from Page 1

Instead, the group requested a thirdparty audit, which city officials said they would not pay for.

Former City Councilwoman Laura Bentley spoke at the Feb. 26 special-called meeting.

“This council has every right to deny the alcohol license and require that these laws be followed,” Bentley said.

The legal question

In a conversation with Appen Media Feb. 29, Krokoff discussed the farm winery, the crux of the debate.

The City Council placed a moratorium on new farm wineries from May to December 2021.

The moratorium was extended multiple times to put a hold on alcohol, building permit and land disturbance permit applications.

During the moratorium, the City Council amended two chapters of the Code of Ordinances dealing with requirements for alcohol beverage licenses and zoning for farm wineries. Chapter four of the city code deals with alcohol, and chapter 64 concerns zoning.

“This is confusing because the conditional use permit only came into existence after the Rosenbergers started the work on their farm winery,” Krokoff said. “Let’s pretend they didn’t, let’s talk about it right now… if they were to come in Jan. 1, 2022, they would have to apply for that conditional use permit.”

Whether or not the farm winery is vested, or secured by right, according to the law is not clear, Krokoff said.

If the city were to determine that the Rosenbergers’ farm winery is not vested, their property at 13555 Blackmaral lane would not meet requirements for a farm winery in the updated city code.

“It would have to go along with all of those regulations associated,” Krokoff said. “It would have to be more than 20 acres, and it couldn’t be on a residential street.”

While the current zoning and alcohol laws requires a variance for the farm winery on Blackmaral Lane, the rezoning of the property occurred before the laws were passed.

“Let’s go back to the situation at hand, there was no application process for the Rosenbergers to become a farm winery,” Krokoff said. “There was only an application process for rezoning.”

The rezoning of 13555 Blackmaral Lane from a community unit plan, or CUP, to agricultural, or AG-1, occurred in May 2021, just before the moratorium on farm wineries went into effect.

One of the conditions of the rezoning limited the number of visitors to the proposed tasting room at the farm winery, which Krokoff said contributed to city staff’s assumption of vesting.

“[The application] got intertwined in the conversation with the farm winery, so much so that we all believed they ended up becoming vested,” Krokoff said. “It depends on how much they relied on that rezoning, what we gave them, that by right use, between when they got the rezoning and when the farm winery requirements were instituted.”

The seven-month period, between May and December 2021, is a key for determining if the Rosenbergers’ farm winery is vested, Krokoff said.

If the city determines the property is not vested, the Rosenbergers would have to go through the process, outlined in the December 2021 code updates.

“That is the million-dollar question right now,” Krokoff said.

Request for Proposals

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RFP NUMBER

24-PRO1

Proposal Due Date: March 27, 2024, by 2:00PM Local Time

Electronic submission via: www.miltonga.gov

Submissions will be publicly announced on the above date at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004 (opening may be moved online due to public health conditions). The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the highest scoring Offeror whose proposal meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the request for proposals.

The City of Milton is requesting proposals from qualified companies to provide On Call Tree Removal Services at the City's parks and facilities on a as needed basis. All qualified proposals will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin.

The request for electronic proposals for RFP 24-PRO1, On Call Tree Removal Services will be posted on the following websites the week of March 7, 2024: http://www.miltonga.gov and http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR index.jsp

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CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE

RZ23-07 - Consideration of a text amendment to adopt a new Unified Development Code that will update and replace the current zoning ordinance, as follows: An ordinance to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 64 of the Code of the City of Milton, Georgia); to readopt the existing zoning map as part of the new Unified Development Code; to amend the text of other specific development, design and other sections of the Code of the City of Milton; to consolidate said other specific sections as well as the Zoning Ordinance so as to create a consolidated ordinance to be known as the Unified Development Code; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting ordinances; and for other purposes.

Public Hearing:

Location:

City Council Meeting

Monday, April 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.

Milton City Hall - Council Chambers 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2540

CITY OF MILTON

PUBLIC NOTICE

Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment

Notice is hereby given that a public hearing shall be held on the 18th day of March, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, Georgia before the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton at which time ordinances pertaining to the Fiscal Year 2024 budget amendment shall be sounded. A subsequent vote to consider adoption of the amendments will be held on the 8th day of April 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at Milton City Hall.

The proposed budget amendments will be available for review online at www.miltonga.gov.

This public hearing is in accordance with O.C.G.A. 36-81-5. All citizens and stakeholders of Milton are invited to attend.

DEATH NOTICES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING DESIGN REVIEW BOARD

Date: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 6:00 P.M.

Location: Milton City Hall - Council Chambers 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2540

On the date and time, and at the location stated above, the Design Review Board shall conduct a public hearing to consider the following applications for Certificate of Appropriateness.

1. Demolition Plan Review:

A. Address: 16040 Thompson Road, Milton, GA 30004

Applicant: Naim Lulu

B. Address: 13635 Cogburn Road, Milton, GA 30004

Applicant: Elena Marteniuc

C. Address: 16064 Hopewell Road, Milton, GA 30004

Applicant: Steve West

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

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

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

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

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

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

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first/last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references.

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

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