Milton Herald - March 14, 2024

Milton advances upgrade projects to roads, bridges

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Milton residents can expect to see several road construction projects, local- and state-funded, underway across the city.

Communications Director Greg Botelho wrote Feb. 28 about the Ga. 9 “widening-and-then-some” project making its way from Alpharetta to Milton. In Alpharetta, the project starts at Ga. 9 and Upper Hembree Road.

The Milton phase covers just over 3 miles of Ga. 9 from Windward Parkway to the Forsyth County line.

“That project presents a real challenge that – if we are intentional and savvy – can serve as a pivotal opportunity to enliven, and in some cases, reinvent this crucial corridor,” Mayor Payton Jamison said in a December letter to the Milton Herald.

The Georgia Department of Transportation oversees all aspects of the project along the state route, creating a four-lane roadway with a raised median. The project consists of additional bicycle and pedestrian facilities, signal upgrades and turn lanes at all major intersections.

The latest estimate from GDOT last July put construction costs at just over $68 million.

During a preconstruction meeting Feb. 27, state officials said the contractor, Vertical Earth, has been

See ROADS, Page 24

Council tosses agenda for winery forum

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — The saga surrounding the Blackmaral Lane farm winery reached a standstill March 4, with the City Council deferring the public hearing for a fifth time.

In a rare move at the March 4 City Council meeting, Milton officials deferred two items related to city speed limits in lieu of 90 minutes of public comment about the Blackmaral Lane winery.

Of the two dozen speakers, most reside in the Providence Planation neighborhood, which encompasses the only roadway to

the winery.

Three public comments were in favor of the alcohol license, including one from Jim Rosenberger, who owns D’Rose Vintners on Blackmaral Lane with his wife, Daryn.

Proponents of the winery said the property at 13555 Blackmaral Lane has privacy and property rights, and city officials should not “be ceding to fears of a vocal minority.”

Rosenberger said he feels confident his legal counsel would prevail against the city and he would scrap proposed concessions after litigation.

“From the beginning, we have always

been transparent about our plans to pursue a farm winery [and] our first communication to the city in 2020 was titled, ‘Farm Winery License Application,’” Rosenberger said. “We deferred tonight’s hearing because we hope to come to a resolution with the city to make all parties whole.”

Some arguments against the farm winery cited familiar issues such as increased traffic, the danger of drunk driving, decreased property values, and improper notice of public hearings and

See FORUM, Page 25

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

A look at Milton City Hall as resident Jim Rosenberger speaks to the City Council March 4 about his application for an alcohol license for his farm winery on Blackmaral Lane. Twenty-four residents spoke about the farm winery and its application for more than 90 minutes.

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Man cited for speeding on Deerfield Parkway

MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a Lilburn man Feb. 26 for speeding about 15 mph over the 35-mph limit on Deerfield Parkway.

When police conducted the traffic stop that morning, the driver said he was attempting to pass a vehicle that had been trying to cut him off.

As police spoke with the driver, they smelled marijuana, masked by a cologne. Police found a bag of green leafy material in the vehicle, which the driver said he had purchased from the store and believed it to be legal, the incident report says. Police later tested it as positive for THC.

Police also found the driver had a suspended license for a failure to appear in January.

Police charged the driver with speeding, driving with a suspended driver’s license and disorderly conduct. Police transported the driver to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Apple Watch sale goes awry for seller

MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a man Feb. 29 after he allegedly tried to steal an Apple Watch from a Roswell man during an arranged transaction.

The watch owner told police he was contacted on OfferUp by the male suspect, whose name and address were not disclosed on the incident report. The two men agreed to meet at a Milton address.

The man said once he handed over the watch, the suspect took off running to the rear of the residence

and disappeared, the report says. Through conversation with neighbors, the man found the suspect’s residence and asked that the watch be returned. He then called 911.

When police arrived at the home, the suspect admitted to taking the watch and having no intention of paying for it, then returned the watch at the request of police.

Police arrested the suspect for disorderly conduct and transported him to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Home reported ransacked on Jefferson Creek Drive

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta man reported someone ransacked his home on Jefferson Creek Drive while he was on an errand Feb. 24.

The victim reported he left the house with his family around 6 p.m., and he left the front door unlocked. When they returned around 7 p.m., he said the house had been ransacked, but nothing appeared to be missing.

Officers reported seeing cabinets, closets and luggage that appeared to have been rummaged through in the house.

No suspects have been identified.

Police cite Roswell woman for possessing stolen guitar

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested a 24-year-old Roswell woman Feb. 23 who allegedly tried to sell a stolen guitar at Guitar Center on North Point Drive.

Store employees reported the incident after the guitar returned as stolen from a Guitar Center in Kennesaw. The instrument had allegedly been stolen by a former employee at the Kennesaw store.

Officers reported speaking with the woman, who said she received the guitar in her late father’s property in Ohio.

When questioned why she was trying to sell the instrument in Alpharetta and not in Ohio, she reportedly said she was visiting family in Decatur and knew Alpharetta was a wealthier city.

Officers asked the woman if she knew the man who allegedly stole the guitar, and she said no.

The woman’s address reportedly matched the suspect’s address in the original theft, and the woman allegedly admitted the suspect was her ex-boyfriend.

She was charged with misdemeanor theft by receiving stolen property.

Woman reports theft of wallet from vehicle

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta woman reported Feb. 14 that someone had stolen her purse from her car parked in her garage on Greenmont Walk and then used her cards to make fraudulent purchases in Lithonia.

The victim reported she returned home around 4:30 p.m. Feb. 13 and left her purse in the front seat of her vehicle. She said she usually leaves her car unlocked because it is inside a locked garage.

The victim’s husband reportedly returned home shortly after, and he left the garage open. The victim closed the door around 5 p.m.

Around 8:30 p.m., the victim said she received notification for a transaction on her credit card in Lithonia. She then checked the garage and discovered her purse was missing, the report states.

She reported $450 in gift cards, $175 Ray Ban sunglasses and a $295 wallet were inside the purse.

Three of her cards were reportedly used to make more than $600 in unauthorized purchases.

A blue vehicle with a Utah tag was seen driving slowly by the victim’s house around 5 p.m., but no suspects have been identified.

Bringing Thai Street Food to Alpharetta

Milton mansion lists at nearly $9 million

MILTON, Ga. — A single-story, 24,000-square-foot Milton mansion at 13090 Freemanville Road hit the market in early February.

After 27 days on realtor.com, the home has a listing price of $8,950,000. A description on the website bills the property as “Milton’s most iconic estate.”

The mansion, custom-built in 2002, sits at the back of a 9-acre and fully gated property abutting Milton High School. The home sits in the Summit Hill Elementary and Northwestern Middle school districts.

Ron and Mary Wallace own the property.

The estate is located less than a mile from the Crabapple Market district and Milton City Hall with its 1,000-foot-long driveway factored into the calculation.

A five-bay, 14-car garage equipped with 220-volt wiring and high-voltage hookups is ideal for any automotive enthusiast. It also features a complete workshop area with built-in cabinetry, with one bay designed to accommodate motorhomes or boats.

The mansion has an exercise room with a sauna and a steam room, an executive office, a two-story library, a lounge with a curved bar for entertaining and a media room custom-designed for

sound. Checking every box for quality, the commercially built home sports a steel and concrete structure, a commercial boiler with a cooling tower, 22 temperature-controlled systems and a state-of-the-art emergency generator.

The ceiling of the one-story home extends some 25 feet with floor-toceiling windows highlighting custom millwork on the window and door trim.

One wing of the home sports a 4,400-square-foot Old West town replica with a saloon and two half baths, modeled after 19th century Tombstone, Arizona.

The realtor, Bonnie Smith of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, said the wing could be adapted for additional living areas or an indoor basketball court. The 15,000-squarefoot unfinished basement also offers opportunities for expansion.

A manicured and level front yard is suitable for equestrian pursuits, or helicopter landings.

The home features four bedrooms, eight bathrooms, covered patios and porches and a shingle roof.

For interested buyers, the monthly payment on a 30-year fixed loan at 7 percent is just over $50,000.

ATLANTA FINE HOMES SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY/PROVIDED

Appen Media staff to visit Johns Creek

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Staff reporters with Appen Media will be all ears at its open forum at Sugo in Johns Creek March 21.

The forum provides visitors the chance to offer suggestions and feedback on coverage.

Beginning at 4 p.m., staff will be onhand for around an hour. There will also be a short Q&A session.

This is the third stop on the newsroom’s “Listening Tour,” a seven-month series touching base in each of Appen Media’s coverage areas. In January, the group set up shop in Dunwoody, and in February, they heard from residents in Roswell.

Listening Tour schedule

March 21 – Sugo, Johns Creek

April 18 – Cherry Street Brewing, Vickery Village in Forsyth County

May 16 – Six Bridges Brewing, Milton

June 20 – July Moon Bakery and Café, Alpharetta

July 18 – Pontoon Brewing Company, Sandy Springs

All stops are open to the public and free to attend.

An RSVP is not required but appreciated. Visit appenmedia.com/join to let us know you are coming.

Pittman hired to head Alpharetta Chamber

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce has announced Sophia Pittman as its new executive director.

As director of operations for the Atlanta City Council, Pittman contributed to major projects including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Atlanta Streetcar, the BeltLine, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Georgia Aquarium.

Pittman also served as executive director of institutional advancement at Gwinnett Technical College and as director of operations for the United Methodist Church

southeast region.

“I am honored to be chosen to lead the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce, an organization with such an active membership and a bright future,” she said. “I am eager to collaborate with our members, partners and stakeholders to leverage Alpharetta’s unique strengths and create an even more vibrant and thriving business environment.”

Pittman lives in Alpharetta with her son.

— Shelby Israel

Chick-fil-A announces spring move to Halcyon

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Chick-fil-A will be joining the roster of businesses at Halcyon in south Forsyth County this spring.

RocaPoint Partners, the developer of Halcyon, announced March 4 a 5,300-square-foot Chick-fil-A, a 3,500-square-foot Chase Bank and a 2,400-square-foot Five Guys will be opening as part of the development’s phase three construction.

The third phase of construction is on the right side of Halcyon near the intersection of Oak Farm Drive and McFarland Parkway.

Officials said a new high-end grocery store will also be announced by the end of the year.

“Everything we do at Halcyon is for the local community,” RocaPoint Partners

principal Phil Mays said. “These wellknown additions offer convenience and the comfort of familiarity to our Forsyth County neighbors. Phase three at Halcyon is moving full steam ahead, and we look forward to more announcements to come.”

In July, the Forsyth County Commission approved a series of changes to the county Unified Development Code to allow an additional 265 apartments at Halcyon, a measure developers said was necessary to accommodate the new grocery tenant.

The master planned district for Halcyon was originally zoned in 2015 to allow for 690 residential units and up to 550,000 square feet of commercial space.

Shelby Israel

The Spring Real Estate Market is here and the good news is the increased mortgage rates have not impacted the Milton market! We are seeing multiple offer situations due to the continuous low inventory and research suggests this could be the norm for quite some time. Buyers are continuing their search for a

and the phrase “marry the house and date the rate” remains strong in 2024!

I am confident I can assist you with all your real estate needs but first we must come up with a plan. If a move is in your near

to discuss the current real estate market conditions and provide guidance to help you succeed.

EXPERIENCE. SERVICE. EXCELLENCE.

I have been providing professional assistance and personal service to buyers and sellers in the North Fulton marketplace for the past 19 years. I am dedicated to listening and helping clients achieve their real estate goals with exacting standards and integrity.

Ansley Real Estate values relationships first and supports that with innovation and technology. I am part of this team and ready to assist you with all your real estate needs!

The harp is not just for classical musicians on a concert stage. Once we know what your goals are, we can find the harp that is right for you.”

KATHERINE COOK, manager, Atlanta Harp Center

Atlanta Harp Center strings together festival lineup

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Harp Center, located in a quiet office park off South Main Street in Alpharetta, sports the largest selection of harps in the South.

Its showroom at 11775 Northfall Lane features pedal and lever harps from Lyon & Healy and Venus in Chicago; Salvi in Piasco, Italy; Camac in Mouzeil, France; and Dusty Strings in Seattle.

Visitors to the showroom are greeted with a mix of nature and technology.

More than 50 harps are on display from around the world. Three little fish, each of one the primary colors, circle a tank in the lobby as harpists peruse the extensive inventory.

From the hand-carved pillar of the Minerva Natural from Salvi to the 34-string, electric-lever Camac Ulysses, there is a harp designed for each patron’s taste.

The Atlanta Harp Center requires appointments to visit its showroom, which employees said allows clients to hear and experience the unique sound of each stringed instrument.

For harpist across the South, Alpharetta’s Atlanta Harp Center is a mecca.

The rent-to-own program for lever harps gives customers the choice to either return the instrument after a four-month period or continue to rent it on a month-to-month basis.

The team, consisting of industry experts and professional harpists, applies most rental payments toward the purchase of the instrument and allows

a trade-up policy for the purchase of a pedal harp.

The initial payment for rental varies between $260-$600, with monthly payments less than $200.

While credit approval and a contract are required for the rental program, Atlanta Harp Center works with customers to find the right size, sound, look and price.

The price range for harps extends from $2,500 to $40,000.

After co-owners David and Mary Jane D’Arville married, the couple opened the Midlothian-based Virginia Harp Center in 1997. They decided to keep the name when opening a second showroom in Haddonfield, New Jersey after the success of their first location.

The Atlanta Harp Center opened its doors to the public in 2007, becoming the go-to place for world-renowned harps for interested players across the Southeast.

The D’Arvilles

offering the largest selection of harps on the East Coast with international and domestic customers.

The Atlanta Harp Center Festival, sponsored by Camac Harps, Lyon & Healy and the Virigina Harp Center, will be March 15-17 at the Courtyard by Marriot in downtown Decatur at 130 Clairmont Ave.

See

bill their locations as

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Katherine Cook, manager of the Atlanta Harp Center, and David Paul Raaen, assistant manager and harpist, stand in the showroom at 11775 Northfall Lane off South Main Street in Alpharetta. Cook said employees and customers are excited for the world-class lineup at the Atlanta Harp Center Festival March 15-17 in Decatur.

Harp:

Continued from Page 8

The second regional Harp Center festival after the COVID-19 pandemic features Canadian harpist Valérie Milot; multi-award winner Juan Riveros; Celtic harpist Kim Robertson; and jazz specialist Amanda Whiting from Wales.

The festival also showcases guest performances and ensembles from Urban Youth, Middle Georgia and Feiner Musicke.

Tickets are available online and at the door.

For more information, visit atlantaharpcenterfestival.com/.

The manager, Kathrine Cook, said clients primarily come from the Lower 48 states, but the team has fulfilled orders from South Korea and Canada.

“We don’t do all international shipping, because harp factories have dealers in other countries,” Cook said. “There’s just not that many dedicated harp locations.”

Cook graduated from Kennesaw State University where she studied clarinet performance. She said she applied for an assistant manager position at the retail store without ever playing the harp.

“After college, I was working as a theater manager and was away from the music world a bit more than I liked,” she said. “I thought, ‘there’s no way they would want me, I don’t play harp,’ but it was too interesting to not apply!”

Cook said she promoted David Paul Raaen, assistant manager and harpist, to a full-time position when she took over the manager position last year.

“The harp is not just for classical musicians on a concert stage,” Cook said. “Once we know what your goals are, we can find the harp that is right for you.”

Raaen, who began playing the harp

at 13, performs in weddings, church services and ensembles. He said Rhett Barnwell, composer-in-residence, and Julie Koenig, harpist-in-residence, are in the showroom a couple days a week.

Pedal harps are primarily used for classical repertoires in orchestras, while lever harps are best suited for the quick notes in folk styles, such as Celtic. Pedal harps are typically more expensive and larger than lever harps, making transportation more difficult.

“The similarity between the harp and the piano is you use both hands,” Raaen said. “You have the treble clef and the base clef.”

Raaen said Seattle-based Dusty Strings is the world’s most well-known manufacturer of lever harps for folk music.

“On the lever harp, if you start changing, you lose your base clef because you have to change it with your left hand,” Raaen said. “Whereas on [the pedal harp] you are shifting it with your feet.”

The tradeoffs between the styles do not limit the possibilities of the harp, but interested customers should note the differences, he said.

French instrument maker, Sébastien Érard, first patented the double-action pedal system in 1801.

Raaen said the system, with a few mechanical upgrades, is still in use today.

Harp-like instruments emerged around 3,500 B.C. in Mesopotamia.

Cultures throughout Africa, Asia and Europe developed harps in different forms throughout the centuries.

After its introduction into classical orchestra in the 1800s, pop culture icons in the 20th century, like the Marx Brothers and the Beatles, used harps in their performances.

“A silver lining during the pandemic was the resurgence in popularity of harps,” Raaen said.

spring 2024 Learn to play LACROSSE clinics

• Introduces boys and girls who are new to the game of lacrosse in a fun yet challenging environment

• PreK through 5th grade

• Fundamentals of the sport are taught through drills and scrimmages

• No equipment necessary! Players only need a lacrosse stick, making this a cost effective introduction to the great game of lacrosse

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

David Paul Raaen, sales associate at the Atlanta Harp Center and music instructor, plays a classical tune March 6 on the Minerva Natural from Salvi Harps. Raaen said preferences for harps vary, based on an individual’s ear and preferred style.

What exactly are allergies?

Brought to you by – Comprehensive Internal Medicine

What are allergies?

Allergies are your body’s reaction to a foreign particle, usually a protein. These proteins can come from pet dander, molds, pollens, or from trees and grasses. If you develop an allergy to a particular protein, your body’s defense system (immune system) reacts to it and the allergic reaction creates allergy symptoms.

What is an allergic reaction?

An allergic reaction is the way your body responds to an allergen, usually a protein.

You may feel itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, sinus or ear fullness, a hoarse voice, a scratchy throat, or

trouble breathing. You may even develop a skin rash.

These symptoms can be treated with over the counter or prescription allergy medication or immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be tailored specifically for you.

What is allergy testing?

To perform allergy testing, small pinpricks or scratches are made in the skin and a very small amount of allergen is placed to test your body’s response. If you react to the allergen, we have identified a trigger that is causing your allergy symptoms.

What is immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a treatment used to desensitize your body to the allergy trigger.

Comprehensive Internal Medicine has been serving the Alpharetta community for 20 years, celebrating this milestone anniversary in 2023.

The medical practice offers a very comfortable environment and serves a medical home where patients are seen for their wellness examinations (checkups) and for the management of multiple medical problems. Same-day appointments are always available. We welcome new patients, take most insurance plans and discounts for self-pay patients.

Jeffrey Obiora, M.D.

Dr. Obiora has a special interest in managing medical issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. He also specializes in diabetes prevention and weight loss.

In addition, he brings expertise in allergy treatment and managing allergic rhinitis, sinusitis and asthma, and can schedule allergy testing to determine the best way to treat allergy symptoms.

In this treatment, the results of your allergy testing are used to create a very personalized formula of medicine that is used to slowly treat your immune system in a way that stops reacting to your allergy trigger. Immunotherapy medicine is given by injection (allergy shots) and is administered twice weekly. The first injection is given in the doctor’s office.

Comprehensive Internal Medicine uses an advanced formulation and instruction that allows you to then give the injections at home. This saves the twice-weekly visits to the doctor’s office. You return to Comprehensive Internal Medicine every 6 weeks to progress the therapy and at the end of one year, allergy testing is repeated. Often, a second year of treatment is advised, following which, most allergies are cured.

• Acute Illnesses such as: sore throat, flu, cough, common cold, etc.

Jacqueline T. Pearson, M.D., M.S.

Anju Bhushan, M.D. Arezou Fatemi, M.D.

Ryan Bozof, M.D.

Shima Mansouri, P.A.-C Laurae Carpenetti, M.D.

Carol Hector, M.D.

Sumera Pervaiz, M.D. Sudeshna Nandi, M.D.

Petula Gunn, APRN

Raphael Lopez, M.D.

Alexis Buelow , MSN,APRN,FNP-C.

On Occam’s Razor, Hickam’s Dictum and Crabtree’s Bludgeon

Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta

Arriving at a correct diagnosis is not a simple matter. With the exception of the occasional conspiracy theorist (Is Elvis alive?), most people gravitate to the least elaborate explanation to a question – the explanation that makes the fewest assumptions to fit available data.

Indeed, this approach is known as “Occam’s razor” and is the most famous rule of diagnosis taught in medical school. Within medicine, this rule is sometimes abbreviated to mean that a doctor should seek one single unifying diagnosis that explains all of a patient’s complaints instead of trying to explain five complaints with five diseases. For example, if a patient has a tick bite, rash, fever, headache and confusion, perhaps a single tick-borne illness explains all the symptoms and the patient can be treated accordingly rather than delaying treatment and introducing risk to perform spinal taps, MRIs or other investigations to search for second, third or fourth diseases.

Occam’s razor might sound like obvious and sage advice. Unfortunately, it proves wrong often enough that a Dr. John Hickam, former departmental head of medicine at Indiana University, felt the need to remind students that Occam’s Razor is sometimes wrong. He coined Hickam’s Dictum, which states “patients can have as many diseases as they [darn] well please.” (Dr. Hickam used the other D word, but we may have children in the audience.)

How often is Occam’s razor wrong?

In my physical diagnosis class in medical school, a professor taught us that there was a study of inpatients admitted at a university hospital in which the researchers looked at how often at least two diagnoses were necessary to account for the patient’s chief complaint. The result? One third of the time at least two diseases were to blame. Hickam’s dictum counterbalances Occam’s razor and reminds us of not becoming nearsighted or prematurely triumphant upon reaching a plausible single diagnosis. Sometimes two or more diseases are to blame. Sometimes, the patient in respiratory distress has the flu and covid.

A third rule, Crabtree’s Bludgeon might be my favorite. Who doesn’t love a good bludgeon? (You can tell I am a father of boys). Crabtree’s bludgeon says that a motivated individual will figure out an intelligible method of explaining away a set of contradictions, no matter how contradictory they are and how wrong they might be. This rule hints at the extent to which we humans often doggedly stick to a certain conviction or belief despite all the evidence to the contrary. New evidence says we might be wrong? No problem. We simply reason out elaborate new rules and exceptions that

fit our previous beliefs and account for the new evidence. Never underestimate the ability of people who are wrong to invent reasons not to admit it and to figure out how the new evidence actually further proves that they are right. (Think Flat Earthers)

Sometimes, a doctor can cling to an erroneous diagnosis far too long when what the patient needs is a complete reassessment. This is one of the most compelling arguments for patients receiving second opinions.

One of the most interesting cases that I have encountered in my medical career occurred when I spent a month studying at Stanford University. A patient presented to Stanford’s dermatology clinic with a tumor near her optic nerve and with certain birthmarks of her skin. She was sent by the ophthalmology department to the dermatology department for an opinion on whether the eye tumor was related to the birthmarks.

The stakes were high. If the eye tumor was deemed connected to the skin findings, then the ophthalmologists planned on watchful waiting and observation of the tumor. If not, then they planned surgery which could result in blindness in that eye. I spent hours researching the embryology of her findings and discovered reasons to believe that the patient’s tumor was very likely an atypical presentation of a disease called segmental neurofibromatosis. I concluded that the tumor and the birthmarks were very likely part of a single syndrome.

When I presented the case at Stanford’s dermatology grand rounds, Occam, Hickam, and Crabtree all showed up. Great debate ensued. The first professor to speak argued for the optic nerve tumor being unrelated to the birthmarks. Other professors found my evidence for a syndrome convincing. When the first professor found herself outnumbered, she doubled down and bludgeoned her way into arguing that the data was not only weak but actually backed her argument.

How did things turn out? The patient chose observation instead of surgery. My visit to Stanford ended, but I corresponded with a professor there, and the last update that I received was that the patient was doing well with no further growth of the tumor on subsequent MRIs.

I hope that you enjoyed this peek into diagnosis within medicine. For readers with children or grandchildren, I suggest that the lessons to be learned from Occam, Hickam and Crabtree are worth sharing and have relevance far beyond the field of medicine.

If you or a loved one has a possible skin cancer or any medical or cosmetic skincare need, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor, Kathryn Filipek, PA-C and our wonderful staff are honored to take care of you and your family.

Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.

He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.

Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 18 years experience as a Dermatology PA. We are excited to welcome her, as she brings with her experience in general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology.

Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.

Living with guilt vs. Living with gusto!

Brought to you by - Alice D, Hoag, EdD, LPC,

Summit Counseling Center

A few years ago, I intercepted one of my sons as he was descending the staircase and heading outside. He explained, with a guilty expression on his face, that he was going to go outside to smoke a cigarette. Ever since I was my grandmother’s companion during her final months of life as she went through chemo and radiation treatments for lung cancer after her 50 years of smoking cigarettes, I’ve not been a fan of cigarette smoking. And he knew this. I stopped him and challenged, “Either do it with gusto or don’t do it at all.” I went on to encourage him, “Fully enjoy inhaling and blowing smoke rings or whatever you do. Get the most out of whatever it is that you do. Choose wisely, then do it with no guilt. If you cannot enjoy it fully, then don’t do it at all.”

In the decade since that first statement just slipped out of my mouth on its own, I’ve reflected on that sentiment. I believe it is a way of living life to its fullest. “Either do it with gusto or don’t do it at all.”

Guilt and anxiety. Neither is a good option to live with as a way of life, yet I interact with so many people who do live in a constant state of guilt and/ or anxiety! It’s their default mode; it just happens without even thinking. Every action and thought carries with it

either a sense of guilt or anxiety.

“Being my best self” is a way of life that I attempt to live by every moment of every day. While I may not hit the “best self” goal all the time, I can certainly choose the “better self” more often than not. It’s an element of being a good steward of what I’ve been given. And we’re all called to good stewardship of everything we’ve been given: time, talent, energy, body, mind, actions, motives, finances, relationships, and on and on.

It is not an easy task to choose our better self (or best self). It requires that we surrender the easy path, the selfish or self-protective default mode in each of us. However, as we do, we become more intentional. When we choose our actions intentionally to be consistent with our best self, we end up being less guilt-driven. And when we act intentionally, there is less anxiety. There’s actually less emotional involvement at all. Acting intentionally requires that we observe the options from several angles, then choose the best version of ourselves to move forward in a direction. This results in freedom, contentment, and joy. That’s living with Gusto!

If you’d like guidance and encouragement on choosing joy and living with gusto as your better self, The Summit would love to come alongside and walk with you on your journey.

Why are my teeth so sensitive?

Brought to you by – Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health

Why are my teeth sensitive? What can I do about it? To understand why your teeth are sensitive, it’s important to delve into the underlying causes and factors contributing to this discomfort. Tooth sensitivity, medically known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It manifests as a sharp, sudden pain or discomfort experienced when teeth are exposed to certain stimuli such as cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, as well as during brushing or flossing. The sensation can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact one’s quality of life, if left untreated.

There are several potential reasons why your teeth may be sensitive:

1. Exposed Dentin: Dentin is the layer of your tooth beneath the enamel, containing tiny tubules that lead to the nerve center (dental pulp) of the tooth. When the protective enamel layer wears down due to factors such as aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or tooth erosion from conditions such as acid reflux or bulimia, the dentin becomes exposed.

This exposes the nerve endings, leading to sensitivity.

2. Gum Recession: Receding gums, often caused by aggressive brushing, gum disease, or aging, can expose the sensitive roots of the teeth. Unlike enamel, the roots do not have a protective layer making them susceptible to sensitivity.

3. Tooth Decay or Damage: Cavities, cracked teeth, or dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or bridges that are improperly fitted or have deteriorated can leave the inner layers of the tooth vulnerable to sensitivity.

4. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Clenching and Grinding your teeth can be an unconscious habit that you’re not even aware you are doing. Habitual clenching or grinding can wear down your enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. Additionally, it can cause fractures in the teeth, structurally compromising the tooth or exposing the dentin causing discomfort.

5. Dental procedures: Certain dental procedures such as teeth whitening treatments, professional cleanings, or root planing can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity. However, this sensitivity usually subsides after a short

period.

6. Acidic Foods and Beverages: Consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity. Examples include citrus fruits, soda, wine, energy drinks, and certain types of vinegar.

7. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as acid reflux, bulimia, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can expose teeth to stomach acid, leading to enamel erosion and sensitivity.

8. Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and ultimately tooth sensitivity.

To alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent further discomfort, it’s essential to address the underlying cause. This may involve using desensitizing toothpaste, practicing proper oral hygiene, avoiding acidic foods, wearing a mouthguard to prevent bruxism, and seeking dental treatment for conditions such as gum disease or tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of any dental issues contributing to sensitivity.

By identifying and addressing the root cause of your tooth sensitivity, you can restore comfort and maintain optimal oral health.

“Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life.” -Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic

Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide all the modern advances for healthy and attractive smiles. You will realize immediate results with non-invasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-9922236. Dr. Bradley Hepler has spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that we provide each patient with the perfect solution to their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.

Why do I get so many Cavities?!

4. Your flossing habits:

At Roswell Dental Care, we take pride in our ability to educate our patients about their oral health. One question we frequently hear from our patients, “Why do I get so many cavities? I brush my teeth every day!” We understand the frustration that comes from putting the work in to maintain your teeth and still ending up with cavities, we are here to help break those reasons down for you.

1. How deep your grooves are:

How your teeth are shaped, including the grooves of your teeth, are inherited. These grooves are too small for your toothbrush bristles to get in and clean properly. Some teeth have deeper grooves, which increases the risk of biting surface cavities. We can prevent these types by placing sealants (plastic) over the grooves of the teeth.

2. Your oral bacteria:

Did you know, you inherit the genetic layout of your oral bacteria from your mom? The types of oral bacteria can impact your oral health, including your likelihood of cavities and developing periodontal disease. Staying on a cleaning schedule with your dental hygienist will help reduce the number of bacteria you have in your mouth.

3. Your frequency of sugar intake:

Your habits also play a significant role in your oral health. Your frequency of sugar intake has a direct tie into the frequency of the occurrence of cavities. The more times you consume sugar, the more opportunities for cavities to take hold.

Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from the sides of your teeth, so not flossing on a consistent basis increases your risk of developing cavities between your teeth.

5. Your medications:

When you eat or drink anything other than water, the pH of your mouth becomes acidic. Saliva’s job is to neutralize the acidic environment. Some medications cause xerostomia (or dry mouth). If your saliva is reduced or becomes thicker, your teeth have an increased risk of developing decay, especially along the gumline. Products containing xylitol are “mouth wetters,” and xylitol prevents bacteria from adhering to tooth structure, helping to prevent the effects of a dry mouth.

The above reasons are just a few of the many complex factors that go into why cavities develop. As dental professionals, we strive to keep our patients educated in their oral hygiene. Good or bad oral hygiene plays a role in overall health, and we are here to get your oral health in excellent condition so that your overall health can be too. Drs. Hood and Remaley at Roswell Dental Care understand and customize treatment for each person. We assure you will feel confident in the solution you choose before beginning any treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE nitrous oxide. You can rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding on many levels. Give our office a call at 770.998.6736, or visit us at www. roswelldentalcare.com, to begin your journey to happy and pain-free oral healthcare!

Trimming down with Semaglutide: How this game-changing treatment helps you lose weight

Brought to you by – Hydralive

Special Notice: Hydralive Therapy Milton will rebrand to OlympusMD Wellness in the new year, while still offering the same exceptional services.

Are you tired of struggling with weight loss? If so, you’ll be excited to learn about a treatment making waves - Semaglutide. This medication is transforming the landscape of weight loss, offering new hope for individuals looking to shed those extra pounds and improve their overall health.

Semaglutide, originally developed as a diabetes medication, has shown remarkable efficacy in promoting weight loss. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), Semaglutide works by stimulating the release of insulin, reducing appetite, and slowing down digestion. These mechanisms contribute to both better blood sugar control and significant weight reduction.

Clinical trials have reported an average weight loss of 15-20% in participants who took Semaglutide for an extended period. maintain their progress with lifestyle modifications alone.

In addition to its weight loss effects, Semaglutide has been shown to improve overall metabolic health. By reducing weight, decreasing inflammation and

improving insulin sensitivity, it can help prevent or manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

It also has long-lasting effects. Unlike many weight loss medications that require continuous use, Semaglutide offers sustained weight loss even after discontinuation. This means that individuals who achieve their weight loss goals with Semaglutide can maintain their progress with lifestyle modifications alone.

Unlike most weight loss medications

that require multiple daily doses or injections, Semaglutide can be taken once weekly in the comfort of your own home. Its ease of use and efficacy make it an attractive solution for those seeking sustainable and long-lasting weight loss results.

At Hydralive Therapy® Milton, we pride ourselves on offering the latest advancements in weight loss treatments, including the use of Semaglutide. Our highly skilled staff of healthcare

professionals is here to guide you throughout your weight loss journey. We understand that every individual is unique, which is why we provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals.

To learn more about Semaglutide or schedule a consultation with one of our experts, please contact us at (470) 3594815 We’re here to support you every step of the way to achieve your weight loss goals.

Interdisciplinary Clinic treats brain and spine tumors at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center

Brought to you byWellstar Neurosurgeon

Dr. Benjamin Zussman

A diagnosis of a brain or spine tumor affects each person differently. While for some people, the tumor’s location in the central nervous system can cause disorientation, an altered mental state, dizziness and seizures, for others the symptoms will look different. At Wellstar, every person is unique and deserves a personalized care team and plan that’s right for them.

The compassionate team at the Brain and Spine Tumor STAT Clinic at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center is made up of expert

neurosurgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, neuroradiologists and neuropathologists who come together to offer the timeliest, patient-centric diagnosis and treatment for benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spine.

In our STAT Clinic, we put people at the center of their care by bringing multiple cancer experts together to collaborate about care and meet with patients the same day. As a result, patients and their families are able to ask questions, make decisions and start treatment sooner. At the heart of the clinic’s philosophy is the recognition that oncology requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the physical aspects of the disease, but also the emotional wellbeing of the patients. In addition to the Brain and Spine Tumor STAT Clinic, Wellstar North Fulton offers

STAT Clinics for head and neck, breast and lung cancers.

The cancer care team at Wellstar North Fulton uses the latest diagnostic technologies, allowing for precise imaging and monitoring of brain tumors. Patients are seen by a variety of specialists on the day of their STAT Clinic appointment and benefit from a streamlined and coordinated approach to care. The multidisciplinary team collaborates seamlessly, facilitating quick decisionmaking and ensuring that patients receive the most effective and personalized interventions.

The interdisciplinary nature of the clinic promotes a continuous flow of information and expertise among providers, so patients benefit from the collective knowledge of specialists across various disciplines. Regular case conferences and tumor boards

create a forum for collaborative decision-making, ensuring that the most up-to-date and evidencebased approaches are employed for each patient. In addition to medical interventions, the clinic places a strong emphasis on caring for the whole patient. Our dedicated nurse navigators and nutritionists collaborate with the medical team to address the emotional, social and nutritional aspects of the patient’s journey.

This unique Wellstar clinic represents supportive, comprehensive care for those navigating the challenging terrain of brain and central nervous system tumors.

To learn more about cancer care at Wellstar North Fulton, visit wellstar. org/northfultoncancercare or call (770) 410-4530.

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Now we’re cookin’!

Brought to you by – Flour Power Studios

Power Cooking Studios is ready to welcome your children to summer camp at two locations this summer: Alpharetta and East Cobb! Our popular cooking camps are offered weekly, May 28th through August 1st, and are open to kids ages 5-12. We’re offering both full and half day camps again this year.

Each week will feature a different theme, from the Chocolate Factory to Christmas in July to Movie Munchies! Your lil’ chef will be making their own snacks and lunch and will round out their day with arts and crafts, kitchen science experiments, games, and lots

of FUN! All ingredients and supplies are included. Questions? Give us a call at 470-760-6460. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

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ALPHARETTA-ROSWELL HERALD | FORSYTH HERALD | JOHNS CREEK HERALD

MILTON HERALD | DUNWOODY CRIER | SANDY SPRINGS CRIER

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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 Hamburgers, Hot Dogs & Potato Chips for Sale Standing Room Only – Buy Tickets at the Door

King’s Ridge Baseball at the Legion

JV vs King’s Academy,

Sandy Springs passes incentives for firm’s relocation to Queen Building

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs City Council approved a request for economic incentives March 5, aimed at keeping a Fortune 500 company in town.

Newell Brands is considering relocating its global headquarters less than 2 miles south from 6655 Peachtree Dunwoody in Sandy Springs to the Queen Building on Concourse Parkway.

Representatives for Newell Brands applied to the city Jan. 25 requesting a waiver of building permit fees and business occupational taxes for the buildout of their corporate headquarters.

Newell Brands is a global consumer goods company known for products like Rubbermaid, Coleman and Sharpie.

Caroline Kinchler, economic development manager for Sandy Springs, said the company occupies three spaces across the city, including one across the street from its headquarters at Embassy Row and a research and development center off Morgan Falls Road.

The Queen Building at 5 Concourse Parkway lies in the heart of Perimeter Center and stands 31 stories with almost 700,000 square feet of Class A office space.

The property is a part of the Concourse Office Park, a 2.2 millionsquare-foot development just north of I-285 and immediately east of Ga. 400.

“The new site will serve as our world headquarters of our multinational business that is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange,” a spokesperson for Newell Brands said. “We routinely bring business contacts from around the world to meetings at our headquarters which further promotes the city.”

Three representatives from Newell Brands, including its senior director of corporate real estate, attended the March 5 City Council meeting, but did not speak about the incentives request.

With the national office vacancy rate at a record-breaking 20% in the fourth quarter of 2023, a new major tenant in the Queen Building signifies a jump in the regional competitiveness of the Perimeter Center.

City staff said the publicly traded company is in the final stages of exploring relocation options both inside and outside of Sandy Springs, including Dunwoody. They also said the application for incentives will help

the corporation determine the final costs and benefits of selecting Sandy Springs.

“While the decision ultimately rests with Newell Brands,” Councilwoman Jody Reichel said, “we want them to know that Sandy Springs is ready and enthusiastic about the possibility of being your chosen location.”

Staff expects the corporation to sign an 11-year lease commitment for some 181,000 square feet of office space.

Newell Brands is expected to invest $30.4 million for renovation and another $20.8 million for furniture, fixtures and equipment. The corporation is anticipated to occupy the first floor and seven others.

If Newell Brands elects to stay in Sandy Springs, it will retain 890 jobs and add 165 new jobs, with an average wage of $130,000.

Based on information that Newell Brands submitted to the city Feb. 7, the relocation project satisfies the tier three qualifications in the city’s Economic Development Incentive Policy, last updated in 2017.

“This is a great example of how our incentive policy is aligning with our objectives,” Reichel said. “It is my sincere hope that Newell Brands chooses Sandy Springs as the location of for [its] global headquarters relocation.”

The incentive policy allows the city to hold large employers accountable for following through with redevelopment and revitalization efforts.

With more than 100 jobs created, $5 million invested and 10 years committed, Newell Brands qualifies for expedited permitting, a building fee waiver and a 3-year business tax waiver.

Staff in the Finance Department said the estimated value of waived fees will not exceed $282,000.

“Our employees and visitors often leave for lunch or after work stopping to eat, shop and play in the businesses in Sandy Springs,” a Newell Brands spokesperson said. “We also have a subset of employees that choose to live close to work, and will buy or rent housing, raise families and ‘do life’ in Sandy Springs outside of work hours.” The city anticipates renovations to begin in fall 2024 and the relocation to occur sometime in 2025.

“If this building sits empty, and they don’t go into it, our tax revenue drops,” Mayor Rusty Paul said.

“Commercial taxes in the Perimeter market are some of our most important revenue sources.”

FILE PHOTO

A view of northbound Ga. 400 shows the Queen Building, or Concourse Corporate Center V. The Sandy Springs City Council approved a request for economic incentives March 5 for the relocation of Newell Brands’ global headquarters to the iconic building.

Irish-based nonprofit gears up for St. Patrick’s Day festival

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Northside Irish Culture & Arts, is gearing up for its 2nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 23 in Sandy Springs.

A shortfall in funds this year has scrapped plans for the parade, but the focus will be on the festival, celebrating Irish music, dance and culture.

The city is wrapping up installation of synthetic turf at the City Green, a 4-acre park on Galambos Way, just in time.

The celebration honors St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland. It also gives Metro Atlantans an opportunity to wear green on the City Green and soak in all things Irish.

Mike Moors, president of Northside ICA and former local president of The Ancient Order of Hibernians, said he and a few members of the north metro Irish community created the nonprofit during the pandemic to bring a St. Patrick’s Day celebration to the area. He also emphasized the annual event is distinct from The Ancient Order of Hibernians, a fraternal organization founded in New York City in 1836.

“[Sandy Springs] Mayor [Rusty] Paul has been a big supporter, and we have worked with the folks at the city,” Moors said. “There was an Irish band that played in early 2022 at the Performing Arts Center, and then we decided to go for it.”

With more than 1,500 patrons at the inaugural event last March, Northside ICA organizers are looking for more sponsors and community outreach.

Festival organizers said they hope the weather improves from the cold and rainy event last year.

The festival will feature city and state officials; local and national Irish organizations; Irish arts, music and dance groups; neighborhood and civic organizations; churches, schools and families; Irish artisans and other attractions.

Moors said Ireland-native Kate Curran, a youth ministry director at Christ the King Cathedral in Atlanta, will sign the “Irish National Anthem” in her native tongue.

“The AOH is a part the overall Irish community here in Atlanta, there’s several groups doing different things,” Moors said. “People don’t really like going downtown anymore, and we have a critical mass here on the northside.”

He said The AOH will participate in the 136th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 16 in midtown Atlanta.

Butch Elmgren, Savannah-native and owner of Thos. O’Reilly’s Public

BUTCH ELMGREN/PROVIDED

Pictured center, Caoimhe Ní Chonchúir, consul general of Ireland in Atlanta, and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp hold a signed proclamation Jan. 17 declaring March as Irish American Heritage Month. Representatives from The Ancient Order of Hibernians joined the Kemp family and Irish Consulate representatives for the honor at the state capitol.

House, said the idea is to prevent competition with larger events the weekend of March 17 in Atlanta and Savannah.

Thos. O’Reilly’s Public House, 227 Sandy Springs Place, is a sponsor of and event organizer with the Northside ICA.

While the festival contracted with Guiness in 2023, organizers are teaming up with Sandy Springs-based Mutation Brewing this year.

He also said the Northside ICA festival bills itself as a more familyfriendly event, rather than an afternoon of excessive partying.

“There’s a lot of things that are kind of stereotypes, green beards, leprechauns and things like that,” Elmgren said. “There’s a whole lot more to it, Ireland is rich in culture, history and arts.”

Irish American history

More than 9 percent of Americans or 32 million people reported having Irish ancestry, according to 2020 U.S. Census results.

Some famous Irish Americans include former presidents John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama, Tom Cruise and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In 1991, President George H.W. Bush issued the first proclamation declaring March as Irish American Heritage Month. In subsequent years, Congress passed legislation designating the month as a celebration of Irish Americans. Since 1997, presidents have issued annual proclamations for the observance of Irish American Heritage Month.

On Jan. 17, representatives from The

farm.

Sandy Springs Mayor Paul signed the local proclamation Feb. 27.

While Ireland was a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain from 1801 to 1922, a period known as “an Gorta Mór” or the Great Hunger, from 1845 to 1852 saw the systematic starvation of 1 million Irish people and the exodus of another 1 million.

Contemporary analysis of the British government’s role in the humanitarian crisis attributes the mass starvation in Ireland to an inadequate response.

The potato blight throughout Europe during the period did not result in mass starvation in other nations, except in British-controlled Ireland.

The Irish population recovered to its pre-1845 level in 2022.

While funding the festival remains a priority for Northside ICA organizers, Moors also discussed the nonprofit’s charitable partners.

AOH along with Caoimhe Ní Chonchúir, consul general of Ireland in Atlanta, presented Gov. Brian Kemp with a crystal bowl from Dingle, Ireland, full of shamrocks from a Peachtree Corners

“If we can raise enough money and we have overage, then we will contribute,” Moors said. “The charities that we support would be the Hibernian Hunger Project and Solidarity Sandy Springs.”

Both organizations aid food-insecure families.

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Roswell officials unveil new turf fields at park

ROSWELL, Ga. — The City of Roswell hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the unveiling of two new turf fields at Roswell Area Park on March 6.

The $1.4 million project, funded by the city’s bond program, involved replacing two artificial turf fields which were originally converted from grass in 2013. The new turf has 100-percent, slit-film fibers and a three-layer infill system consisting of sand and crumb rubber.

Both fields, Multi-Sport Field No. 2 and Multi-Sport Field No. 3, also received new fencing and netting with bigger poles and stronger mesh as well as brand new goal posts. In addition, the No. 2 field was outfitted with a new lines package, allowing the Recreation and Parks Department to expand its capacity for games and practices at Roswell Area Park.

The city also plans to complete a turf upgrade for Multi-Sport Field No. 1 by the end of the year.

King’s Ridge students honored for participation in state chorus

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — King’s Ridge Christian School is recognizing seniors Lily Gardiner and Alexa Page for six years of participation in the All-State Chorus, a statewide vocal talent showcase.

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School officials said the students’ participation since seventh grade reflects their commitment to music and the standards of the All-State Chorus auditions.

King’s Ridge Christian School High School Choral Director Jenny

Piacente also congratulated Gardiner for receiving the 2024 Choral Tracks Scholarship Award.

“Her accomplishments have not only made us proud but have also garnered recognition from choral teachers across Georgia,” Piacente said. “Lily’s dedication and talent exemplify the spirit of our choral program and serve as an inspiration to her fellow students.”

— Shelby Israel

CITY OF ROSWELL/PROVIDED Roswell City Councilwoman Lee Hills and Roswell Recreation Commission Chair David Smith, center right, prepare to cut a ribbon on two new turf fields at Roswell Area Park March 6. The $1.4 million project was funded by the city’s bond program, approved by voters in 2022.

Kidney recipient plans nonprofit to aid others through crisis

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Larry Weissman did not know the severity of his kidney disease until it was almost too late.

In 2001, Weissman was diagnosed during a quarterly check-up for his type 2 diabetes. It came as a surprise. As an ex-jock who tried to keep in shape, he said he felt fine.

“I’m a guy. I don’t ask for directions. I feel good, right? I was feeling good,” Weissman said. “I made the very almost fatal mistake of not really paying attention.”

He experienced no symptoms — not uncommon for those with the disease, and for the next two decades, he continued to feel healthy.

But, in 2022, a nephrologist called him. The kidney specialist told Weissman his kidney function was down to around 3 percent and that he would have to come in for tests right away because his other organs may start to fail.

Weissman soon started to lose vision in his left eye, had problems with taste and had low energy.

“I was scared to death,” Weissman said. “I’m a pretty tough guy from the eastside of Cleveland, and I’m crying like a little kid. ‘This is it. You work all your life, then you die.’”

For the better part of 2022, Weissman didn’t leave the house to avoid the risk of infection — the COVID-19 pandemic was still in full swing. While at home, undergoing dialysis, he struggled to do basic

Roads:

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given a notice to proceed with the stretch through Milton.

The completion date is set for December 2027.

Botelho said city officials are in regular contact with GDOT and may fund a stone veneer along the sidewalks. He also said residents can expect to see the relocation of utilities, tree removal and sidewalk work “fairly early in the scheme of things.”

“While all this goes on, the city will continue efforts to support businesses and residents who work and live in and around this crucial corridor,” Botelho said.

Improvements are also underway at Ga. 400 and McGinnis Ferry Road where GDOT is constructing a diamond interchange.

GDOT is expected to begin construction next year on new bridges on Freemanville Road at Cooper Sandy Creek and on Hopewell Road and Birmingham

things, dealt with cramps and “nuclearpowered” headaches. Weissman relied on his wife Bonnie to take care of him as he waited for a donor.

Close to three dozen people volunteered to donate a kidney to Weissman, most from Roswell, who he calls “heroes.” Turns out, one hero, and the perfect match, was his son Dave.

“It was one of the best days of my life,” Dave said. “... I’ll never forget calling my dad to tell him that the surgery was scheduled.”

While Dave had a family of his own to consider, a wife and two young kids, he said there was no hesitation. Through research, he found that complications for

Road at Chicken Creek.

The new bridges will have two 12-footwide lanes and 6.5-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides.

Another new bridge on Birmingham Road near Manor Trace, funded through the 2016 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, is in the design and right-of-way acquisition phase.

Each bridge project is expected to cost between $2.8 and $4.4 million.

Also, on the north side of the city, utility relocation for the roundabout at Freemanville and Birmingham roads is complete.

The 2016 TSPLOST referendum funds the project, around $2 million, near the Freemanville-Birmingham Greenspace.

The on-site contractor will first install stormwater infrastructure before crews begin grading for the new road, curb and gutter.

“In other words, expect a lot of activity in the coming weeks,” Botelho said. “Because of that, there may be some intermittent slowdowns and slight delays to the work can proceed.”

The expected competition date is Sept. 29.

Weissman’s experience led to a new lease on life, becoming a mentor to others all over the country touched by kidney disease through the National Kidney Foundation’s mentorship program.

“The reason I do it is because the doctors are not really good about telling you what’s really going on,” Weissman said. “They’re very much in their lane. Unless you facilitate that conversation, be your own advocate … you are not going to get the attention that you should probably get.”

Weissman has also facilitated meetings between local donors and recipients, in awe at the benevolence of people at home who have placed themselves in the donor pool, ready to live with one kidney for the benefit of the stranger.

Adding their perspectives, Bonnie and Dave mentor as well.

“We try to surround them holistically,” Weissman said.

donors were rare.

“It was an easy decision,” Dave said. “I mean, having the opportunity to save your dad’s life is a special thing.”

The day before, Weissman said his kidney function was tested at 90 percent, better than what is considered normal for a 67-year-old.

“I’m doing better. I’m walking 5 miles a day. I’m trying to get back in shape. I’m even lifting light weights,” he said. “I’ve got my life back.”

He is closing in on incorporating a nonprofit, what he plans to call “Kidney Warriors Inc.,” to help kidney recipients, donors and caretakers financially and through mentorship.

The first big fundraiser will take place next fall, he said, a hike at the Grand Canyon — $100,000 is the goal, which will be parsed out to people he and his family have connected with personally, who are in desperate need.

“I just envision a situation where a caregiver calls me and says, ‘we can’t make rent,’” Weissman said. “‘Okay, what does it take?’ Here’s 5,000 bucks.”

CITY OF MILTON/PROVIDED

City contractors install new stormwater infrastructure as a part of the roundabout project at Freemanville and Birmingham roads. Communications Director Greg Botelho said March 6 utility relocation is complete.

Larry Weissman, his wife Bonnie Weissman and their son Dave Weissman wear T-shirts that speak to Larry’s kidney transplant experience. Around 20 years after he was diagnosed with kidney disease, Larry received a kidney from Dave. Now, he is looking to create a nonprofit to help assist recipients, donors and caregivers as well as provide mentoring services.

PHOTOS BY LARRY WEISSMAN/PROVIDED

Two hours before his kidney transplant in March 2023, Larry Weissman hugs his son Dave Weissman, the donor.

and bullied him into potential litigation against the city.

Forum:

Continued from Page 1

zoning changes.

Others focused on the rezoning application from community unit plan to an agricultural designation, and the impact of the subsequent moratorium on farm wineries.

Rewinding the clock

Sarah Moen, president of the Providence Planation Homeowners Association, cited three city records, which she said highlight communications between city officials and the applicant.

Moen and a group of neighbors submitted a large open records request Feb. 2 and received documents and emails from the city Feb. 23.

Moen said a June 18, 2021 email from Robyn MacDonald, a zoning manager in the Community Development Department, to Jim Rosenberger shows the applicant was aware of the moratorium and its impact on his pursuit of an alcohol license.

“Lisa from the Finance Department… wanted me to let you know that the Mayor and City Council approved an emergency moratorium on various permits, including alcohol related to farm wineries,” MacDonald wrote. “Unfortunately, it impacts your application for an alcohol license as they are extending the moratorium…for 120 additional days.”

The email includes a link to the agenda item and concludes with a question about how to handle paperwork and checks.

More than two years later MacDonald accepted an application for a temporary alcohol license from Rosenberger in June 2023.

City Manager Steven Krokoff signed off on the temporary license for D’Rose Vintners Oct. 2, which expired at the end of last year.

Before the Nov. 20 City Council meeting, Krokoff signed a concurrent

review of an alcohol license for the winery. While the item was deferred, the memo from Finance Director Karen Ellis cites no alternatives or legal review required.

In a Nov. 17 email to the Rosenbergers’ attorney Kyle Baker, Milton City Attorney Ken Jarrard said, “this is the legislation creating the use permit,” with the updated city codes attached.

Moen argued the email shows city officials are aware of the laws governing farm wineries.

Former City Councilwoman Laura Bentley, who served during 2021, offers a unique perspective on the moratorium and subsequent ordinance amendments.

“The 2021 City Council…worked for seven months to create a special-use permit to protect Milton property owners from the issuance of an alcohol license for commercial sale and consumption of alcohol at farm wineries,” Bentley said. “Rural Milton has beautiful diversity of land use, so a special-use permit for farm wineries was formally approved Dec. 20, 2021 to protect all property owners from commercial-like alcohol sales.”

She voted in 2021 to amend chapter 4 and chapter 64 of the Milton Code of Ordinances, concerning alcohol and zoning. The changes to civic law during the 2021 farm winery moratorium are the crux of the debate, City Manager Krokoff told Appen Media.

The changes are critical because the Rosenberger’s 10.8-acre Blackmaral Lane property would not qualify for a special-use permit because of insufficient acreage and its location in a residential neighborhood.

“In this case, the special-use permit process has not been followed, which is a violation of our land use laws,” Bentley said. “It’s really hard to understand why our leaders have not followed the process.”

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

From left, City Manager Steven Krokoff and City Attorney Ken Jarrard listen to public comment March 4 from Jim Rosenberger, who owns the property on Blackmaral Lane with his wife, Daryn. Rosenberger said Providence Planation neighbors have mischaracterized

Hey y’all, I’m Hayden Sumlin and I report on all things in Dunwoody, Milton and Sandy Springs. If you have any story tips or ideas please contact me at hayden@appenmedia.com

AI wave – When reality can no longer be ignored

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

I hate it when what I have been working so hard at avoiding or not seeing becomes so compelling and so intrusive that I must deal with it.

Sometimes that “thing” is something personal and relatively trivial – like a toothache at the point a dentist can no longer be avoided, or like a mole that is starting to change shape and color and not going to see the dermatologist is no longer an option.

Sometimes the “thing” is not so individually personal but more “macro” in nature – like say an epidemic – like COVID 19. We collectively ignored it; dealt with it by isolating and getting vaccinated; denied it; recognized it; and so on – but at one point, no one could continue to not see it or deny its existence - even though we were told not to worry because it would just “magically disappear someday” – the height of scientific reasoning, knowledge and prudence.

Now we are in one of those “macro”

situations, and the reality of the “idea” or the “concept” is getting real, fast. I am not talking about the war in Ukraine. It is still going to be a while before we collectively must face the realities of that war – including the direct consequences to us when and if Russia succeeds, which will probably happen if U.S. aid does not resume. Talk about penny-wise and pound-foolish to the most absurd extreme.

No, the unavoidable 900-pound gorilla that can no longer be ignored or swept under the rug is artificial intelligence – AI. To me, it is no longer this vague existential threat that “we” must “do something about.” It is here, now, and the impact is already hitting us in the pocketbook.

Here is a case in point: Atlanta-based Hollywood movie and film producer Tyler Perry just announced that he’s putting his Atlanta studio’s $800 million expansion on hold indefinitely because of his concern that much of the utility of the physical production facilities could be done instead with software – AI software. Tyler’s expansion – four years in the planning – was to include construction of 12 new sound stages on his 330-acre production campus. Tyler was quoted as musing that “why would I go to the time, money and

labor to build production sets when I can sit in my office in front of a computer and accomplish the same thing with AI?”

The short term and long-term economic impact of Perry’s $800 million expansion could have been substantial. The number of jobs that could have been created in building the facility and post-construction use – from construction workers and engineers, to actors, grips, electricians, sound technicians, writers and editors –was massive. That is not to mention the tax base that would have been generated for the City of Atlanta; the power that would have been consumed; the number of hotel-stays and restaurants that would have benefited; the business generated for the real estate companies; and all the peripheral businesses that would have been created to support and supply the demands of the expanded studio. We are talking about a ton of lost jobs, lost revenue, and lost opportunity – all because so much of the core work now – and in the future – can be done with artificial intelligence software and computers.

Yes, not all those jobs are lost, and yes, one would assume more computerrelated jobs will be created, but, as AI is increasingly used in the film process, a

huge percentage of jobs formerly required will simply go away. Why spend more money than necessary in producing entertainment content?

Even Gary Trudeau who writes the Doonesbury comic strip picked up –almost immediately – on Tyler Perry’s announcement.

In his Feb. 25 script, Trudeau shows a talent agent pitching a new writer sensation to a producer. The producer incredulously replies to the talent agent the following: “Ted, anyone who doubts that AI can write a soap opera script has never watched a soap opera. Two years from now, AI output will be network quality! In three years, it’ll be cranking out peak TV and film scripts.”

The example of AI’s impact on the film industry is only representative of its impact on the entire current economic system. It will impact most jobs in most industries and services. More will be done with less – less employment. Yes, there will be an upside – somewhere – and yes, on some scale, new jobs will be created –somewhere, somehow. I wish I could see in that crystal ball, but I can’t.

So, fasten your seatbelt. It is going to get bumpy.

Serious, hardworking, ‘Mr. Steve’ was respected

Stephen Spruill was born in Dunwoody in 1870 and grew up in a log cabin behind his grandfather’s house on Spruill Road. Today, that road is Ashford Dunwoody Road.

One of his chores as a child was to gather pine knots to help light the cabin. He remembered that his grandfather once paid him $1 to drive an “unruly” calf to cattle market in Atlanta.

The first school Spruill attended was a one-room log cabin, located where Spruill Center for the Arts and the Dunwoody Library are today. His teacher, Mattie Graham, lived with his grandparents.

“We walked to school through the woods, carrying our lunch pails containing such things as a baked sweet potato, sausage and a biscuit, and fried apple pies,” he recalled. (“The Story of Dunwoody,” by Elizabeth L. Davis and Ethel W. Spruill)

In 1903, a group of men decided it was time to build a Methodist church in

Dunwoody. The group included Stephen T. Spruill, Henry Spruill, J.C. Spruill and John Cates. They met at Cephas Spruill’s blacksmith shop. Church members first met in 1899 at Dunwoody School. Lumber for the church came from the sawmill on Stephen Spruill’s land and from the sawmill of John Wallace in Chamblee. (“The Story of Dunwoody United Methodist Church, 1899 to 1963,” Mrs. D.C. Waybright, Jr.)

Spruill’s parents and grandparents were active in Sandy Springs Methodist Church, so the family vacation each year was a week at Camp Meeting. They packed up and stayed in Sandy Springs for religious meetings, singing and spending time to visit with neighbors.

Stephen Spruill married Mollie Lee Carter of Sandy Springs in 1889, and they had 11 children. After her death in 1932, he married Ethel Warren of Sugar Valley, Georgia.

In addition to cotton and vegetables grown on the farm, there was a 50-acre orchard of apples and peaches. Produce was sent daily to Atlanta by mule-drawn wagons and later by car or truck.

Stephen Spruill was known as a kind, understanding man who lived simply. He was loved and respected in

1950

AUSTIN FAMILY/PROVIDED

the community. Friends and neighbors called him “Mr. Steve.” One of his sons, Euil Spruill, said his father worked from daylight to dark with everyone else on the farm and “took no foolishness from anyone.”

In 1970, Euil Spruill reflected on the changes to the land where his family lived. He remembered standing on a knoll

50 years earlier, when all he could see were mules and men working the fields. There was a commissary on the farm where tenant farmers and employees could buy flour, meal, lard, coffee, sugar and work clothes. The view in 1970 was the Perimeter Mall construction site. (The Eagle, Tucker Federal Savings and Loan newsletter, November 1970)

Euil Spruill recalled, “One thing my father enjoyed was rabbit and squirrel hunting. He had two or three hounds and roamed the place in his spare time.”

Stephen Spruill died in June of 1967, just two months before his 97th birthday. He is buried at Arlington Cemetery in Sandy Springs.

The Spruill home still stands today as Spruill Gallery and Gift Shop at 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road in Dunwoody.

If you are curious about this 1950 photograph of the Dunwoody Methodist Chapel and the other people pictured, return to Past Tense next week.

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

This

gathering of Dunwoody Methodist Church Sunday School attendees includes Stephen and Ethel Spruill standing on the left side, front row of the photograph. Stephen Spruill is in a dark suit and Ethel Spruill is wearing dark gloves.

Four Killer or Foe Killer – what’s in a name?

If you are like many people who have moved recently to North Fulton you probably have wondered about the odd name of one of our creeks, Foe Killer Creek. Or, if you have lived here a while, you may be convinced that the original name was Four Killer Creek, and that a Cherokee Indian by that name lived by the creek and may have killed four enemies. Here is the story behind the name.

Cherokee warriors were sometimes awarded ranks reflecting the number of enemies they killed in battle. These were honors awarded to outstanding warriors. One such warrior was Four Killer, or commonly Fourkiller, who lived with his family at the headwaters of the stream that lies between Alpharetta off Hopewell Road and Roswell where it joins today’s Big Creek. His Cherokee name was Nvgidlihi or Nunggihtehe or Nanketeehee. Nunggih means “four” and tehe signifies “killer.” Somehow over time the word Foe became a misnomer for Four (possibly slurred by White settlers). Modern road signs identifying the creek call it Foe Killer Creek.

Historian John Goff included an essay written in 1956 on the subject in his 2007 book “Placenames of Georgia.” He explained that a warrior’s name or rank would change as he vanquished more enemies:

One Killer, Two Killer, Three Killer, Four Killer, Five Killer, Six Killer and possibly more elevated ranks were used. Anyone with “teehee or tehe” at the end his name, regardless of number slain, was a prominent individual. Further detailed information on Cherokee place names can be found at chenocetah. wordpress.com.

Sometimes “killer” was used with other than cardinal numbers. Path Killer was a warrior, statesman and Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1811–1827 and was a signer of the Treaty of Tellico in 1805. Tellico was the site where several treaties were negotiated whereby the Cherokees ceded large portions of land in Tennessee and Georgia. Chickasaw Killer also signed the treaty. He must have been a very special warrior because the Chickasaw were known to be very fierce, unconquerable warriors.

Four Killer’s land was confiscated during the Gold Lottery of 1832. He died on the infamous Trail of Tears march to the Oklahoma Territory in 1838, also known as The Cherokee Removal from Georgia.

Chekilli was an important Creek chief who in 1733 negotiated peace with the British upon their founding of Savannah. According to John Goff, Chekilli’s name in the Creek language has a suffix equivalent to the Cherokee “teehee,” signifying “killer.”

From Georgia to Oklahoma

In modern times, the Fourkiller surname is most common in Oklahoma where many Cherokees

were settled following the Trail of Tears. According to “Name Census,” Fourkiller appeared 195 times in the 2010 U.S. census, primarily in Oklahoma. Eighty percent of the individuals with the Fourkiller last name were classified as American Indian, 10 percent were white and 7 percent mixed race.

The Fourkiller Cemetery in Piney, Oklahoma, has 110 memorials according to “Find a Grave,” more than 50 of which are marked Fourkiller with the earliest burial in 1848 and the most recent in 2009.

Sam Sixkiller (1842–1886) was a prominent Cherokee leader during and after the Civil War. He was the

son of Red Bird Sixkiller. According to legend, the Sixkiller name came from a fight between the Creeks and the Cherokees where one of Sam’s ancestors killed six enemies before being killed himself. The name has been passed down since then.

The Tenkiller Ferry Dam and lake were built across the Illinois River between 1947 and 1952 and were named after a prominent Cherokee family, the Tenkillers. They operated a ferry service near the dam. After the Trail of Tears, the warrior husband was given his name by soldiers because of the 10 notches in his bow.

Controversy

There has been some good natured (?) discussion over the years as to what the correct name of the stream should be. In a National Public Radio “All Things Considered” program in 2018 the announcer stated “We discovered that Foe Killer is actually a misnomer. The stream between Roswell and Alpharetta was actually called Four Killer Creek.”

Celebrated columnist Aubrey Morris in his May, 1998 “North Fulton Footprints” column titled “Foes of Foe Killer Creek dispute name clouded in Indian lore,” he quoted several knowledgeable people, some of whom favored one version while others favored the other. Both sides spoke with conviction.

The Atlanta Constitution in March 1957 ran an article by Marjory Rutherford with a cartoon of Four Killer in which she referred to “a little stream with the intriguing name of Four Killer Creek.”

“Roswell A Pictorial History,” edited by Darlene Walsh and published in 1985, plays it safe with a photo of the creek and the following caption “Four (Foe) Killer Creek is a small stream that winds its way from the site of the old Camp Mill near Rock Bridge Crossing. The stream derives its name from a prominent Cherokee called Four Killer who once farmed the land at the head of the stream.”

Whether you call it Four Killer or Foe Killer, the 6.8 mile long stream is one of many Georgia small waterways with odd names, many derived from our rich Cherokee heritage.

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

PHOTOS BY BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Foe Killer Creek can be seen from the overpass on Hembree Road.

This overpass on Hembree Road identifies the location of Foe Killer Creek, a stream that winds its way for 6.8 miles from near Hopewell Road in Alpharetta to where it joins Big Creek in Roswell. Four Killer was a Cherokee warrior who lived with his family at the headwaters of the stream.

Taking a winter walk in the woods

Walking in the woods is always a refreshing and invigorating experience and good for the soul. Now that it is winter, a great remedy for cabin fever is to bundle up and take a winter walk.

As you walk, note the forest trees as well as the ground below. Most if not all of the trees have lost their leaves. As a result, a whole new visual landscape opens to our eyes, and the leaf litter below us can offer clues about the trees that inhabit the woodland terrain.

If you are curious about the types and names of trees, you can also quickly identity one of the dominant northern Georgia forest trees, the beeches. They have a unique characteristic because their paper-thin, light beige leaves stay firmly attached to their branches during the entire winter. Continue your walk by picking up some of the leaves on the forest floor. Note there are many tree species, but I venture to guess, most of them are oaks. You will also see a variety of acorns, most of which have been partially or totally devoured. All oaks belong to the genus Quercus. Based on their leaf structure, the genus Quercus is divided into two major types, the white oaks and red oaks.

How can they be differentiated?

White oaks have leaves with round leaf lobes and red oaks have leaves with pointed leaf lobes. Please look at the pictures, and I am sure you can quickly distinguish between these two types of oaks. Oaks are the most valuable landscape and forest trees in the eastern United States. For this reason, oaks are considered a Keystone Tree. They have earned this designation because their acorns produce life-sustaining nourishment for a variety of living things. If oaks were eliminated from the eastern U.S., the entire ecosystem would suffer.

As I write this article when the outside temperatures are hovering around freezing, I have begun to reflect on how the animals find food and shelter during the winter. In my front yard, I have three mature pin oaks that have reached 30 feet and are now producing acorns. Amazingly, most oak trees need to reach the age of 10 and pin oaks the age of 20 before they are sexually mature and produce acorns, and the number of acorns a tree produces will vary from year to year. In the spring, oaks produce inconspicuous flowers. Like all flowers, they need to be pollinated to produce seeds. Oak trees are pollinated by wind because the flowers do not contain nectar. After pollination, the

About the Author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Carole MacMullan, a Master Gardener and a Milton resident. She taught biology for 35 years in the Pittsburgh area. In 2012 after moving to Milton, Carole completed the Master Gardener training program and joined the North Fulton Master Gardeners (NFMG) and the Milton Garden Club. Her hobbies are hiking, biking, gardening and reading.

Learn more

• Georgia Oak https://plants.ces. ncsu.edu/plants/quercus-georgiana/

flower is gradually transformed over the late spring and summer months into an acorn. Each acorn contains a seed that has the potential, if the conditions are right, to germinate and produce another oak tree. To ensure a future generation, the oak trees create an excessive number of acorns. This bonus crop of acorns provides a forest feast!

Squirrels devour them and instinctively they bury some of them for future consumption. This squirrel activity is a win-win situation! The oak trees win since some of the buried acorns germinate. Many other woodland organisms, such as deer, opossums, racoons, rodents, insects and fungi also enjoy this abundance of life-sustaining nourishment, which keeps them alive in the fall and winter. Acorns are consumed by a total of 96 species of birds and mammals in the U.S. In addition, oaks provide food for more than 897 species of butterfly or moth caterpillars in the United States.

What do kangaroos and Georgia oaks have in common? Both of them are endemic, meaning they originated, thrived and found an environmental niche in one specific location on the planet and exist nowhere else. What a surprise to find that the Georgia oak, Quercus georgiana, is a type of red oak and is endemic. The common and scientific names for Georgia oaks were selected because this species of oak lives primarily in Georgia and a few isolated sites in Alabama and South Carolina! This oak species is a small species of oak and often takes on the form of a shrub. Over time, it has adapted to the dry granite and sandstone outcroppings

and thin layer of soil found on two, lowaltitude mountainous regions of Georgia, Stone Mountain and Pine Mountain. I was fortunate to have seen one of these rare and endangered oaks on a recent hike at FDR State Park near Warm Springs, Georgia.

There are 70 species of oak trees in the U.S., and 28 oaks are native to Georgia. Today I will focus on two common oak species that you will encounter on most walks in local parks, forested areas dominated by hardwoods, as well as in your yard or the yards of your neighbors, friends, and family.

From my observations, the most commonly planted medium-size trees found in residential Atlanta landscapes are pin oaks, Quercus palustris. Pin oak leaves have four to six lateral lobes and one terminal lobe with pointed ends. As a result, they are classified as red oaks. White oak leaves, on the other hand, have lobes with rounded ends and acorns that germinate within two weeks of reaching the ground. White oak acorns also have less of the bitter tasting chemical, tannin, making them a more desirable food source for deer and other wildlife.

Another oak native and easily identifiable is the chestnut oak, Quercus montana. My first encounter with this oak was not with the tree or a leaf but with its large, brown acorn. Next to the acorns were a collection of scalloped edge leaves. The leaves were quickly identified as a white oak because they have rounded lobes. The small, scalloped edged leaves, unlike those of other Georgia white oaks, helped me to narrow my selection to

• Oak Tree & Acorn Identification for Deer Hunters https://www.youtube.co mwatch?app=desktop&v=FIKGm4VSK DQ-this

• Quercus georgiana https:// footstepsintheforest.com/georgia-oaktree-quercus-georgiana/

• G Norman Bishop, Native Trees of Georgia, Georgia Forestry Commission, 2013. https://gatrees. org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ Native-Trees-of-GA-2013-Web-Version. pdf (Page 36-American Beech, pages 48-56 Oaks)

chestnut oak.

On your next forest walk, pick up some leaves and try to identify the surrounding trees.

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/gardenfaire.html

CAROLE MACMULLAN

Guest Columnist

CAROLE MACMULLAN/PROVIDED

Left photo - A view of a beech tree grove with their winter leaves

Right top photo - Georgia oak

Right bottom photo - Two types of oaks. On the left, a chestnut oak, a white oak, with its acorn. On the right, a pin oak, a red oak, with its acorn.

Date & Time: April 16, 2024 6:00

Location: City of Milton (Council Chambers)

2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004-6119

678-242-2500

Consideration of Primary Variance

V24-05, 13355 Arnold Mill Road (Parcel ID: 22 348009450690) & Parcel ID: (22 348009450708)

Applicant: Robert J. Moore

Request(s):

• Part 1 - To allow four (4) existing accessory structures to be located in front of a proposed single-family home (Sec. 64-416(i)).

• Part 2 – To reduce the 25-foot minimum side yard to 12.4 feet adjacent to the east property line for an existing wood deck accessory structure. (Sec. 64-416(c) (1)).

• Part 3 - To reduce the existing barn housing animals distance requirement from 100 feet to 21.7 feet adjacent to the east property line (Sec. 64-415(a)(4)(a)).

• Part 4: To reduce the existing barn housing animals distance requirement from 100 feet to 45.8 feet adjacent to the east property line (Sec. 64-415(a)(4)(a)).

V24-06, 2455 Bethany Bend

Applicant: Jason Wieloch

Request(s):

• Part 1 - To reduce the 50-foot minimum rear yard to 42.3 feet adjacent to the rear property line (Sec. 64-416(d)) and reduce the 25-foot minimum side yard to 5.3 feet adjacent to the east property line for an existing detached garage accessory structure. (Sec. 64-416(c)(1)).

• Part 2 - To reduce the existing barn housing animals distance requirement from 100 feet to 0.1 foot adjacent to the east property line (Sec. 64-415(a)(4)(a)).

• Part 3 - To reduce the existing barn housing animals distance requirement from 150 feet to 80.8 feet from an occupied structure located on another property adjacent to the east property line (Sec. 64-415(a)(4)(a)).

V24-07, 13268 Bethany Road

Applicant: Kevin Weaver

Request:

• To allow the lot coverage for an AG-1 zoned property that fronts a public street to increase from a maximum allowed 20 percent to 24.53 percent for a proposed home addition, pool house and pool. (Sec. 64-1141(d)(1)(b)).

Request for Proposals

On Call Tree Removal Services

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

SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS – MULTIPLE OPENINGS - ALPHARETTA, GA

Intuites LLC needs professionals:

Work using MFED, COBOL, CICS, Java, Jira, GIT, JCL, DB2, SASand PL/SQL.

Req. –bachelor’s with +2yrs exp. Comp. sal. Relocate to unanticipated sites. Please mail resume to Ref: Director, 1740 Grassland Parkway, Ste 405, Alpharetta, Georgia, 30004.

Pastry Baker/Closer Position

Job brief:

We are looking for an experienced Pastry Chef to prepare a variety of desserts, pastries or other sweet goods. Your skill in baking high quality treats should be matched by your creativity to develop new amazing tastes and recipes.

The ideal candidate will be well-versed in culinary arts with a passion for sweet and delicious creations. They must adhere to health and safety standards to provide clients with the best possible serving.

Create pictures and shapes on cakes, and use a variety of tools and ingredients to decorate cakes.

The goal is to enhance customer satisfaction so that we can maintain and expand our clientele.

Proven experience as Pastry Baker or Cake decorator, or relevant role with a minimum of 3 years’ experience. 35-40 hours/week. $18/20 per hour.

GF@2bwhole.net

TEACHERS

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.

Contact Beth by email: beth@midwayumc.org or phone: 770-752-0440

REAL ESTATE ASSISTING

Healthy, hard-working, very tech-savvy lady, good organizing skills. 1-5 or 6pm. 2-3 days/week. My Johns Creek home. Also willing to help with home organization. Salary approx. $15+/hour based on performance & work accomplished. Have own reliable transportation. 678-524-3881 & send resume: realestatetreasure@msn.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Home Improvement

Bargains / Medical Equipment

MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIR

Merits Vision Sport. Less than a year old. Purchased 3/2023. $2800/obo. Alpharetta; must pick up. 352-391-4276

Landscaping

Carreno Landscaping

Monthly lawn maintenance, irrigation, sod installation, plants, mulch-fertilization, tree removal, pinestraw installation. 404-333-5107 or text address for work.

Pinestraw

PINESTRAW, MULCH

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

Pet Sitting

H.E.L.P. PET SITTING & HOUSE SITTING. AVAILABLE FOR WALKS AND OVERNIGHTS. 470-402-1184

Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4pm

Flooring

PHILLIPS FLOORING

Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Regrouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Roofing

Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123.

Christian Brothers Roofing

Cemetery

GREENLAWN ROSWELL:

2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $5000 each! 770475-7307

Office Space for Lease

Close to Downtown Alpharetta

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

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

Contact via text or email: Ray Appen at 770-527-4042 or RayAppen@Gmail.com

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

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

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DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.)

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Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

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