MILTON, Ga. — Affected property owners and Milton Historical Society members listened to architects and planners with TSW Design Aug. 1 at the Arnold Mill Small Area Plan’s last open house.
Arnold Mill Road, or Ga. 140 as it runs along Milton’s southwestern border with Alpharetta and Roswell, stretches from Crabapple and Houze roads in North Fulton County to Woodstock in Cherokee County.
The project’s goal is to develop a guide for future development, including land use, zoning, transportation and design, while keeping with community wishes and Milton’s rural character.
The extent to which rural character can continue to exist within Fulton County is something the small area plan aims to address.
See PLAN, Page 22
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
A map of the Cox Road Activity Node’s second concept in the Arnold Mill Small Area Plan shows what future development along Ga. 140 could look like moving forward. The small area plan includes two activity nodes along Milton’s section of the corridor and anticipates future widening of the state route.
Tasha Rodriguez, area manager for Play-Well TEKnologies, laughs with volunteers during LEGOinspired engineering classes for kids ages 5-14. Rodriquez said Play-Well leverages local engineers and educators to teach its after-school courses and summer camps.
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Man taken for thousands in Facebook sale scam
MILTON, Ga. — A Milton man reported to police July 22 that he was scammed out of $8,500 after attempting to buy a truck on Facebook Marketplace.
The man told police the listing was based in Texas and that he knew the seller from high school. He was advised to send $4,000 to hold the truck to a bank account addressed to another individual based in New Jersey, according to the incident report.
The man was then told that another buyer was willing to send the full amount and pick up the truck, unless he sent the full amount. The man sent another $4,500, addressed to another individual via PayPal, and his uncle, a Texas resident, was set to pick up the truck.
But, when the man’s uncle arrived at the address, the homeowner told him he was not selling the truck and did not have knowledge of what had been going on, the report says.
Police advised the man to contact the fraud department at his bank and Facebook.
Police charge suspected ‘porch pirate’ thief
MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a 39-yearold Duluth man July 24 suspected of stealing a package from a homeowner’s front porch.
Police followed the man in his brown Infiniti sedan, near Crabapple Road and Lecoma Trace, observing that his license plate had been covered with cardboard after he temporarily stopped in front of a residence, according to the incident report.
After losing sight of the vehicle, it appeared again but without the cardboard
and with a Florida tag, the report says.
The man eventually stopped in a left-hand turn lane traveling into a neighborhood near Waterside Drive and exited the vehicle, according to the report. Police exited their vehicle and identified themselves. During the encounter, police found that the man had a suspended license.
Police placed the man under arrest because of the suspended license and for obstructing his license plate, then transported him to the Milton Police Department to be interviewed about the incident. The man was also charged with loitering and prowling.
According to jail records, the man was booked July 29 for financial transaction card fraud and identity theft fraud to create/use/possess counterfeit/fictitious identifying info concerning a real person.
Milton Public Information Officer Lt. Andrew Noblett confirmed the fraud charge was related to the July 24 incident. Noblett said the investigation is ongoing as there may be additional charges coming.
Officers assist resident with identity fraud
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police responded July 29 after a resident said someone attempted to join a credit union with his personal information.
The victim, a 69-year-old Roswell resident, said he received a letter from a bank stating his membership application had been denied.
The man told officers he never applied to the credit union.
A month earlier, the victim said someone tried to sell his property in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
The victim said he spoke with an employee of a title company June 19 about someone attempting to sell the property from London, England.
The victim said his property had been listed online with a $225,000 deal in the closing process, using incorrect personal information.
The title employee said the suspect attempting to sell the victim’s property did not appear in person.
Officers said the victim provided them details about individuals involved in the attempted sale of his property. They did not say if the two events were connected in any way.
Officers told the man to gather any information about who filed the application and file an additional police report with Santa Rosa Beach law enforcement.
The investigation is ongoing.
Resident calls police, skirts scammer
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police spoke with a 42-year-old resident July 24 after someone claiming to be an officer on the phone told her she owed $4,000 for missing jury duty.
The victim said she received a call around 2 p.m. from someone claiming to be Sgt. Peter Fuller with the Roswell Police Department. The department does not employ anyone with that name.
The suspect said the victim had an active arrest warrant after missing a federal jury trial and needed to turn herself in immediately.
The victim said she was instructed to go to Walmart and put $4,000 on a One Finance card to have bail money for jail.
At that point, the victim said she sensed the call was a scam.
The suspect said she could not hang up or she would be arrested and told her a lieutenant would call to confirm its legitimacy.
The victim said she received a call from someone claiming to be a lieutenant with the Fulton County Sherrif’s Office.
When the second suspect called, the victim said she put him on mute and used her spouse’s phone to call the Roswell Police Department. She said the second suspect then disconnected the call.
Officers said the victim did not make any purchases or send any money during the attempted phone scam.
The charge of impersonating an officer can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony in the state of Georgia, with potential for a $1,000 fine and prison term between one and five years.
THE PICTURE FRAMER
— Milton Seller
City opens applications for civic learning gig
MILTON, Ga. — Milton is opening applications for its first Youth Government Leadership Program, a 12-week course designed for local high school juniors and seniors.
The city encourages any teenagers interested in learning about local government, its challenges and potential solutions to apply.
The semester-long program is exclusively for high school juniors and seniors who reside in Milton.
Each semester, applications are open to one member of Fulton County Schools’ Talented & Gifted program and another public or private school student.
The application deadline is Aug. 23 for the fall semester’s two openings.
All applicants are required to submit two recommendations and write a personal statement, 350500 words, touching on why they want to participate in the program and their leadership experience.
If you have questions about the Youth Government Leadership Program, contact the community outreach manager at Emily.
throughout the experience as they explore key community issues, conduct need assessments and work on a weeks-long presentation.
Graduating students will present a Capstone Project, culminating their hands-on learning experience, to the Milton City Council or a citizen-led committee.
A Selection Committee will review each application before selecting participants, two each semester and four per year.
During the 12-week course, participants are exposed to all elements of Milton’s government before focusing on their area of interest.
The program pairs students with a city leader who mentors them
Like the Citizens’ Government Academy and Comprehensive Summer Internship programs, the part-time course is designed to complement participants’ education while also providing them with real-world professional experience.
If you have questions about the Youth Government Leadership Program, contact the community outreach manager at Emily. Salerno@miltonga.gov.
Applications can be found at miltonga.gov/government/parksrec/youth-government-leadershipprogram.
High-tech wastewater facility serves Johns Creek
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — A Fulton County state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility hides in plain sight, tucked next to million-dollar homes and pristine parklands.
Built in 2009 as the first of its kind, the $158-million Johns Creek Environmental Campus sits on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell. The Veolia-run facility cleans North Fulton County wastewater, serving about 150,000 people in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell and Sandy Springs.
“It is one of the most unique wastewater facilities in the nation,” Veolia Program Manager David Horton said.
The technology featured at the campus works by filtering wastewater through hollow spaghetti-like strands covered in tiny pores. The method allows the wastewater facility to sell nonpotable water for pennies on the dollar to customers like golf courses and return treated water to the Chattahoochee River.
The technology also gives the facility a smaller physical and environmental footprint.
The Johns Creek Environmental Campus replaced the less-efficient Johns Creek Water Reclamation Facility, which contributed 80% more waste to the river.
“We’re not just in the business of cleaning water,” Horton said. “We’re in the business of the environment.”
Cleaning water from toilets, baths, sinks and other sources can be dirty work, but Fulton County has made a point to make the Johns Creek campus as inoffensive as possible. Unlike many other wastewater treatment plants, this one produces minimal odor.
The lack of smell is in large part a result of its 60-70-feet-deep, covered waste pits and charcoal filters. The facility has spent about $50 million to
control odor.
On a July 24 tour, visitors admitted they had no idea the unassuming redbrick building that houses the cleaning process was in fact treated wastewater. They also said they hadn’t smelled anything coming into the building.
“We look like the fire station across the street,” Horton said.
Building down into the ground, instead of outward, has allowed the facility to occupy 6 acres, leaving the remaining 42 acres as a buffer to nearby neighborhoods.
A sprawling parkland containing
See FACILITY, Page 20
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Fiberglass ductwork conveys odor-carrying air from covered wastewater basins at the Johns Creek Environmental Campus on July 24. The facility spent about $50 million on odor control in an effort to minimize its footprint amid the surrounding community.
Sandy Springs attorney now chairs Fulton elections board
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ATLANTA — A Sandy Springs attorney, Sherri Allen, is the new chair of the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections after county commissioners approved her nomination at a July 29 special-called meeting.
The confirmation vote was 6-0, with District 5 Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr. abstaining.
Allen is a Sandy Springs resident and practicing attorney. She operates her own firm in the city, specializing in wrongful death, medical negligence, nursing home abuse, social security and veterans’ claims.
Allen is not new to serving her community. She is chair of the Sandy Springs Board of Appeals, legal assistance manager for The Warrior Alliance and on the board of Solidarity Sandy Springs.
Nominated by Fulton County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Khadijah Abdur-Rahman, Allen is the third person to chair the Board of Registration and Elections this year.
In April, former Chair Patrice Perkins-Hooper left for an interim role as Atlanta’s city attorney after less than a year chairing the elections board.
Fulton County Commission Chair Robb Pitts then tapped Perkins-Hooper’s predecessor, Cathy Woolard, to take over for the May primaries and June runoffs.
Woolard announced her resignation as board chair in early July, giving Chair Pitts and commissioners just weeks to fill the position.
Already an important task, managing
the elections process will carry a particularly heavy weight this year in light of the November presidential ballot. National attention will be following closely the polls of Georgia’s most populous county.
District 2 Commissioner Bob Ellis, who represents the western half of North Fulton County, told Appen Media he’s excited to have Allen chairing the board. Ellis said Allen’s extensive work in the Sandy Springs community, her experience as a poll worker and nonpartisan disposition makes her a good fit. The fact that she hasn’t run for public office helps too, he said.
Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul also chimed in on the selection.
“Sheri Allen has been an exemplary member of the Sandy Springs Board of Appeals,” Paul said. “I am sure she will be effective as chair of the Board of Registration and Elections.”
On July 30, Allen issued a statement through Fulton County officials:
“Elections and voting access should not be politicized or partisan, an imperative which is made clear by the bipartisan composition of our Board. No matter the case or situation, I intend to follow the laws, best practices and successful procedures to provide transparency and access to the public. My predecessors’ priorities of access, fairness and transparency are priorities that I intend to continue. By providing consistency and reliable information, Fulton County will continue to build public trust and lead the state for voting equity. Fulton voters deserve measured and transparent leadership, and that is what I intend to do as the chair of the Fulton County BRE.”
Democrats rally for Harris, down-ballot candidates
By JAKE DRUKMAN newsroom@appenmedia.com
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Democrats hosted a rally drawing some 150 attendees July 28 to celebrate the opening of a coordinated campaign office for the party.
The office on Redi Road will serve to support Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, as well as the numerous Democrats running for local, state and federal offices in the area.
The most prominent speaker at Sunday’s rally was Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat who is reportedly on the shortlist to become Harris’ running mate. Beshear has found popularity in his deep-red home state, expanding his share of the vote between his initial 2019 election and his 2023 reelection despite Republicans continuously dominating Kentucky’s federal races.
“I know how to win tough elections, and so do you,” Beshear said to the crowd. “When Georgia came in four years ago, we knew that President Biden and Vice President Harris had won. So between now and Election Day, we need you to do what you do best: the hard work.”
A number of down-ballot Democrats, running for offices ranging from the U.S. House of Representatives to the county’s Board of Education, also attended and delivered speeches during the rally. The event’s speakers praised Harris’ political history, focusing on her and President Joe Biden’s investments into Georgia’s economy and support for labor unions.
“The Biden-Harris administration has
created over 480,000 jobs in Georgia,” said Ashwin Ramaswami, who is running for Georgia State Senate District 48. “When we elect her president, Kamala Harris, along with Democrats, will continue fighting to strengthen our workforce and our unions.”
Speakers also decried former President Donald Trump’s conservative agenda, honing in on the issue of abortion restrictions. State Sen. Josh McLaurin, who is also the former roommate of Trump’s running mate JD Vance, said that America is “not going back to Trump’s extreme vision.”
“[Republicans] have a dangerous plan at their fingertips to use every arm of the federal government to enact this agenda and attack reproductive freedom,” McLaurin said. “They want to prosecute
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear speaks to the crowd in support of Kamala Harris as the Forsyth County Democrats open a coordinated campaign office July 28. See HARRIS, Page 21
PHOTOS BY: JAKE DRUKMAN/APPEN MEDIA
People gather to listen to the speakers at a Forsyth County Democrats coordinated campaign office opening July 28.
Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic kicks off football season
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ATLANTA — The 33rd annual Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic kicks off the 2024 high school football season Aug. 14-17 with 11 games across five locations, featuring some of Georgia’s top talent.
Each of the games will be shown live on Peachtree Sports Network and streamed digitally on the Atlanta News First app. The Saturday games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be broadcast on Peachtree TV and 92.9 The Game.
Half of the 22 competing teams will make their first-ever appearances in the high school football showcase this year. For the first time in school history, the Dunwoody Wildcats are playing in the Corky Kell Classic.
Last season, head coach Michael Nash and the Wildcats ended a 14year playoff drought, exiting in the first round after a historic season.
One reason to be optimistic about the school’s first showcase invitation is star quarterback Matt Pearch, two-sport athlete pitching for Yale University in 2025.
The Dunwoody Wildcats will travel up Ga. 400 to Cumming and square off against the South Paulding Spartans from Douglassville Aug. 15 at 4:30 p.m. at West Forsyth High School.
It’s the third game of the 2024 Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic.
The West Forsyth Wolverines, perennial Class 7A playoff team, takes the field right after at 7:30 p.m. against the Class A defending champions Prince Avenue Christian.
The Alpharetta Raiders, head coach Jason Kervin and edge rusher Julius Holly have a chance to get revenge for their neighbors to the south, North Atlanta High School, when they face the Houston County Bears Aug. 17 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Bears knocked off the North Atlanta Warriors 42-32 in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs last year. The Warriors face the Kell Longhorns at their stadium 8 p.m. Aug. 14 in the second game of the high school football showcase.
Alpharetta is led by a group of highend recruits, including quarterback D.J. Bordeaux and tight end Ethan Barbour who is committed to the University of Georgia.
Corky Kell Executive Director I.J. Rosenberg said it took three months to put together the showcase’s widest range of participants yet.
“I think if you look at the 11 games and 22 teams playing this year, you will see we worked hard to be as inclusive as possible,” Rosenberg said. “We also have made a move into South Georgia as well as going back to the northwest part of the state while getting teams from all over Metro Atlanta.”
When the football showcase began in 1992, only four Metro Atlanta high schools participated, McEachern, Brookwood, Southwest DeKalb and Newnan.
Corky Kell Classic organizers added former Brookwood Broncos head coach Dave Hunter’s name to the high school football showcase in 2023 to honor his involvement and advocacy since day one.
Sports Turf Company, sponsors of the Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic for the seventh consecutive year, are hosting the coaches’ and players’ luncheons Aug. 5 at the Marriott Northwest at Galleria and Aug. 6 at the Rome Civic Center.
The company recently completed turf field replacements at Alpharetta and Milton high schools.
“Sports Turf Company’s mission to support Georgia high school’s coaches and athletes aligns with ours, creating the perfect partnership for this event,” Corky Kell’s executive director said.
The 2024 Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic schedule
Wednesday, Aug. 14 at Kell High School, east Cobb County
• 4:30 p.m. Fredrick Douglass vs. LaGrange
• 7:30 p.m. North Atlanta vs. Kell
Thursday, Aug. 15 at West Forsyth High School, Cumming
• 4:30 p.m. South Paulding vs. Dunwoody
• 7:30 p.m. Prince Avenue Christian vs. West Forsyth
Friday, Aug. 16 at Hebron Christian High School, Dacula
• 2:00 p.m. D.M. Therrell vs. Hebron Christian
Friday, Aug. 16 at Barron Stadium, Rome
• 5:00 p.m. Callaway vs. Cass
• 8:00 p.m. Creekside vs. Rome
Saturday, Aug. 17 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
• 10:00 a.m. Walton vs. Brookwood
• 1:00 p.m. Alpharetta vs. Houston County
• 4:00 p.m. McEachern vs. North Gwinnett
• 7:00 p.m. Douglas County vs. Cedar Grove
DR. NAREN VYAVAHARE, co-founder,
Annoviant
8 | Milton Herald | August 8, 2024
Alpharetta startup’s technology could revolutionize cardiac surgeries
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A local startup CEO left the corporate world to pursue a solution for one of the world’s most pervasive health problems.
“We can save lives,” Dr. Ajay Houde, CEO and cofounder of Annoviant, said.
In 2018, Houde left Halyard Health, formerly a part of Kimberly-Clark, a Fortune 100 company with operations in Alpharetta, to pursue a breakthrough technology to help patients with damaged or defective hearts. He and co-founder Dr. Naren Vyavahare, whom Houde described as the “brain behind the technology,” created the Alpharetta-based startup Annoviant and an innovative process, dubbed TxGuard.
TxGuard technology removes animal cells from an animal’s blood vessel through a proprietary process and implants it into a person’s heart, allowing it to serve as a kind of scaffold for human cells to grow around. The technology’s ability to regenerate and grow with patients’ bodies may make it especially helpful to children born with heart defects.
Children born with heart defects have few options for replacing heart valves, Vyavahare said.
Annoviant has so far secured four grants from the National Institute of Health and about $7.5 million in funding.
“We can give a better option, minimize the number of repeat procedures and save the time in the hospital for people,” he said.
TxGuard, Houde said, has the potential to make an impact on a huge health problem.
PHOTOS BY: ANNOVIANT/PROVIDED
Annoviant co-founders Dr. Naren Vyavahare, left, and Dr. Ajay Houde are developing a technology that could help heart disease patients.
diagnosed with coronary heart disease.
“So many people are struggling,” Houde said, adding, “There are 20 million people today who are struggling with coronary heart disease.”
Other people close to Houde also have experienced serious health issues. In 2017, his mother died because of a lack of proper diagnosis. In 2002, his wife was rushed to the hospital to receive a stent to treat a renal artery defect. And his sister has struggled with breast cancer.
The health difficulties experienced by Houde’s loved ones were one major reason he decided to leave his position in the corporate world.
“Health care is actually very near and dear to me because I have lost many of my relatives, some close friends,” he said. “Some of my family members also were impacted by a lack of having the proper diagnostic or proper treatment.”
Annoviant’s TxGuard aims to provide heart disease patients better options.
Almost 400,000 people undergo heart bypass surgery in the U.S. each year, according to WebMD. Traditionally, the surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body to go around a blocked cardiac artery or defective parts of the heart.
Since the 1970s, the methods have largely remained the same. Although the surgery saves lives and has a high survival rate, the procedure often requires patients to take anticoagulant drugs and undergo repeat surgeries as the replaced tissues harden.
Developing the technology behind TxGuard has been difficult at times, Houde said, but his business has received support from nonprofit startup incubator Tech Alpharetta, as well as other organizations. That support, Houde said, has proved invaluable.
“This has been, for me, a lifesaver,” he said.
With dozens of startups partnered with Tech Alpharetta, the nonprofit has served as a place where Houde can seek mentorship, discuss new ideas and find help in solving complex problems.
The support from Tech Alpharetta has been a blessing, says Houde, but also has offered him motivation in personal tragedy.
A few months ago, one of Houde’s close relatives was
During coronary heart surgery, physicians normally remove a vein from a patient’s leg to bypass one in their heart. But for some people, like the elderly or those who have diabetes, that may not be a viable option.
Although the TxGuard technology has not yet been tested in humans, Houde said that could be coming relatively soon. Annoviant has been working with the FDA throughout its development process. He said getting FDA approval could nevertheless take a number of years.
The first TxGuard devices would likely be implanted on pediatric patients who have few options, he said.
“Saving lives and making people healthy is a noble cause,” Vyavahare said. “And it gives immense inner joy if you even help one patient.”
This TxGuard device is implanted into human patients, serving as a kind of scaffold for human cells to grow around.
Georgia voter cancellation portal requires second round of security fixes
By MAGGIE LEE
The Current
ATLANTA — To build confidence in voting rolls, Georgia digitized a cancellation process.
Instead, they exposed voter data to exploitation.
The website launched July 29 by Georgia’s secretary of state intended to help individuals to cancel their voter status and to increase confidence in the state’s electoral rolls has instead exposed private personal data of voters, according to an investigation by The Current.
Oversights by IT workers during a test phase meant that for at least two days vital data such as driver’s license information or partial Social Security numbers would have been visible to malicious actors. Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger unveiled the site on Monday, July 29.
The Current discovered one security flaw on Wednesday — and immediately alerted the Secretary of State’s office. The story was held for publication until the agency worked with the IT vendor, MTX Group, to correct the issues.
Gabriel Sterling, chief operating officer for the Georgia Secretary of State’s office and former member of the Sandy Springs City Council, told The Current on Wednesday afternoon that approximately a couple hundred people had visited the site before the software fix.
“We launched something, we found some issues, no one was impacted in any real way that we can discover, we’ve taken steps to mitigate it and make sure it doesn’t happen,” Sterling said.
The issue is the second security flaw discovered since the site came online. The first, reported by The Associated Press, has also been fixed, according to Sterling.
The partial Social Security numbers and drivers’ license numbers exposed inadvertently on Georgia’s voter cancellation site are part of data necessary to initiate a voter registration cancellation, along with a person’s date of birth and county of residence. This personal information is valued by hackers to perpetuate identity or credit fraud.
The Current, while using the new
site, discovered that sensitive personal information displayed in the computer code sent from the cancellation portal to some users’ browsers. That flaw was related to an even more obvious security problem first reported by the AP: One page inside the portal very briefly displayed personal information in plain text.
Sterling said his office has been testing the portal internally for weeks. One of the problems had been fixed during testing, but a last-minute change elsewhere invalidated the fix, he said. The problem identified by The Current was on a list of things that needed to be checked, but it wasn’t checked, he said.
The cancellation portal is part of a larger $5.1 million overhaul of the state’s voter registration system. Those changes include storing information in cloud-based servers run by the company Salesforce, which uses security standards laid out for agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Defense. Not even the MTX Group programmers can see voters’ information, he said.
Georgia’s new election laws allow unlimited numbers of challenges to voter registration, part of a series of changes that the Republican-led state government has made to voting law amid pressure from the pernicious but wrong opinion that voting fraud is rampant in the Peach State. The brunt of those registration challenges falls on county election officials.
Though this portal was designed for individuals to remove only themselves or deceased relatives, it comes at a time when voter-list vigilantes are appearing at county election boards with thousands of names they want removed from voter rolls. Voting rights advocates are on high alert, and didn’t care for the language that first appeared on the new Secretary of State page: “Please enter the information for the voter you are wanting to cancel.”
Despite the initial flaws in the cancellation portal — which Sterling emphasized were fixed within hours — the new digitized system is more secure than depending on paper and the mail, he said.
Sterling said fewer than 20 people
See VOTER, Page 19
NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
Business Name: Toile & Bubble Boutique Inn & Spa
Owners: Andie Glover and Cathy Glover
Business description: We are a luxury Spa and Boutique Inn located at the Westshore development in Cumming. We offer a variety of massage and facial services with complementary use of our unique
room. Our amenities include an infrared sauna, steam room and hot tub. Our Inn has five boutique suites.
Opened: March 29, 2024
Phone: 770-886-6166
Address: 1300 Westshore Drive, Cumming, Ga. 30041
Website: toileandbubble.com
Business Name: Boba Bar Tea house and Eatery
Owner: Vu Ha
Business description: Specialized in Boba tea since 2014. Refreshing tea with real fruits. Syrup made from scratch. Homestyle Asian food.
Opened: March 2024
Phone: 678-336-9195
Address: 1165 Perimeter Center W., Ste. 303, Sandy Springs, GA 30338 Website: bobabaratl.com/
Comprehensive Internal Medicine
Serving as the Medical Home for Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton, & Johns Creek, for over 20 years
What is a medical home?
A medical home is an approach to providing comprehensive and high-quality primary care, in a coordinated fashion with specialists and consultants.
A medical home is patientcentered with many aspects that contribute to improved healthcare outcomes
• Accessibility: Care is easy for the patient to obtain, including geographic access and insurance accommodation.
• Family-centered: The patient
and family are recognized and acknowledged, ensuring that all medical decisions are made in true partnership.
• Continuous: The same primary care clinician cares for patient, aiding and support through young adulthood through elder years.
• Comprehensive: Preventive, primary and specialty care are provided.
• Coordinated: A care plan is created in partnership with the patient and communicated with all health care clinicians.
• Compassionate: Genuine concern for the well-being of the patient is emphasized and
addressed.
At Comprehensive Internal Medicine, we involve many team members at various levels to coordinate and provide patient care. Our doctors lead all clinical decision-making in a team approach, collaborating with the patient to tailor care in an individualized manner.
Understanding the intricacies of our patient’s care brings a deeper knowledge of the long-term care plan. Our team of administrative professionals strives to answer each call quickly, avoiding voice mail or a phone tree.
Our scheduling department
Alpharetta: (678) 205-9004
quickly accommodates each patient’s scheduling needs.
We save appointment times for same-day appointments and are always welcoming new patients.
Whereas it may be convenient to see Urgent Care, we believe seeing your regular doctor brings your healthcare to a higher level, being seen quickly when needs arise prevents worsening medical symptoms.
Call today to establish with one of our many doctors. We have physicians who focus on young adult care, and others who have special training in the care of geriatric patients.
3180 North Point Pkwy | Suite 303 | Alpharetta, GA - 30005
Providing Medical Care Including the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases
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.
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.
Dr. Nandi has practiced medicine in north Atlanta for over a decade and brings expertise to her patient base in the areas of elder care, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. She builds long term relationships with her patients and coordinates care with consulting physicians. She is fluent in Hindi and Bengali.
• High Blood Pressure
• Diabetes
• Women’s Health
• Thyroid Disease
• Obesity/Weight Loss
• Arthritis
• High Cholesterol
• Seasonal Allergies
Dr. Pervaiz has built her medical practice at Comprehensive Internal Medicine over many years and looks to build long term care relationships with her patients. She has special interest in sports physicals for teen patients and the care of preventative medicine for adults. She is fluent in Hindi.
• Asthma
• Heart Disease
• Acute Illnesses such as: sore throat, flu, cough, common cold, etc.
and
Jeffrey Obiora, M.D.
Sudeshna Nandi M.D.
Sumera Pervaiz, M.D.
Dr. Fatemi has been a vital part of Comprehensive Internal Medicine for 15 years, caring for her patients
their family members for over a decade. She has special interest in cardiovascular risk reduction, diabetes and high blood pressure. She is fluent in Farsi.
Arezou Fatemi, M.D.
Anju Bhushan, M.D.
Alexis Buelow , MSN,APRN,FNP-C.
Laurae Carpenetti, M.D.
Ryan Bozof, M.D.
Petula Gunn, APRN
Carol Hector, M.D.
Raphael Lopez, M.D.
Shima Mansouri, P.A.-C
Jacqueline T. Pearson, M.D., M.S.
Brought to you by – Comprehensive Internal Medicine
Vegetables that go bump in the night
As a responsible parent, I try not to talk to my children about celery right before bedtime. I wouldn’t want to give them nightmares!
After all, celery is one of several plants that contain “psoralens,” a group of chemicals that can cause terrible sun burns and rashes when eaten or dropped on one’s skin.
The classic example of a rash from psoralens is the vacationer who makes himself a margarita and accidentally drips lime juice on his skin. All is well until he lies in the sun. Then, blisters develop everywhere the lime juice touched: most often in the pattern of a line down the forearm following where the lime juice dripped and ran.
But limes and celery aren’t the only culprits. Most citrus fruits, figs, fennel, carrots, and even parsnips contain psoralens. Yes, EVEN parsnips. And all this time you thought parsnips were innocent. Hah.
Most psoralens stay in one’s system for about three hours after ingestion, so someone who consumes large quantities of psoralens should avoid the sun for half a day or so.
An infamous report in a 1990 volume of Archives of Dermatology details the case of a German woman who fell victim to celery. She was a vegetarian who enjoyed tanning beds, and she did not realize that celery and tanning beds are a dangerous combination. One fateful day, she cooked a one-pound celery root and proceeded to eat the entire root and all the broth in which it had stewed. One hour later, she went to the tanning bed and received her usual 30-minute treatment. Nothing seemed amiss during the tanning bed session, but over the following 48 hours, she developed fever and then diffuse swelling and large blisters. She was hospitalized, treated with steroids, and the reaction took weeks to subside.
Investigators studied a comparable celery root and determined that there was approximately 1mg of psoralens in every 10g of celery root, meaning that she had ingested approximately 45mg of psoralens. This dose of psoralens would be expected to cause the observed blistering reaction in the presence of the amount of tanning bed light she received.
For the reader interested in toxicology, the LD50 (Median Lethal
Dose: the amount of something that would be lethal in half of the people who took it) of psoralens in the absence of light is approximately 1700mg/kg in mice. This means that if a mouse receives a dose of 1700mg of psoralens for each kg of body weight, then the mouse has a fifty percent chance of surviving. If we assume the same LD50 in humans and assume a 70kg weight for the average person, then this would mean that a human would have to eat 2,600 pounds of celery in one sitting to have a 50% chance of dying from the psoralens. Of course, this is impossible. No one can eat this much celery in one sitting (do not take this as a challenge)! But, in the presence of ultraviolet light on one’s skin, just one pound of celery was enough to nearly lead to the German woman’s death. It’s a remarkable example of a toxicity that is environment-dependent to the extreme. Celery is approximately 2600 times more lethal in the presence of ultraviolet light than in its absence.
Psoralens hurt us in the presence of light because psoralens can fit inside our DNA and cause chemical reactions that depend on light to be initiated. Mutations and even breaks in DNA can occur. Even if the cell survives, the mutations can ultimately lead to cancer. Still, the small doses of psoralens the average person ingests from a normal diet allow us to usually disregard our diet when going in the sun. Large quantities of psoralens-containing fruits and vegetables are the exception.
Interestingly, we do have a clue as to why plants make psoralens to begin with. The fact that they can be toxic to animals that ingest them means that they may exist to discourage animals from eating these plants. However, a more intriguing finding is that celery stalks will increase their production of psoralens by up to ten times the normal amount when infected with certain molds. Psoralens may be a defense against mold, and we humans may be the innocent bystanders. Eating celery that was infected with this mold prior to harvesting could theoretically increase the psoralen concentration by ten times the amount, and this would mean that the German patient might have only had to eat a couple ounces of infected celery to suffer the same consequences in the tanning bed.
So, remember: Be careful with lime juice at the beach. Be cautious about celery ingestion prior to light exposure. And never, ever trust a parsnip!
Insist
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.
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
Hormone replacement therapy: is it right for you?
Brought to you by – OlympusMD Wellness
Are you struggling with persistent and disruptive symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, or decreased libido? Do you often feel like you’re battling against your own body? You’re not alone. Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact your quality of life, but there’s a potential solution that may help restore your vitality and wellbeing: hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Whether you’re navigating the challenges of menopause or grappling with the effects of low testosterone, HRT has emerged as a promising option for individuals seeking relief from hormonal imbalances.
HRT has gained popularity as a treatment option for individuals experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances. While it can offer numerous benefits, it is crucial for individuals to carefully consider whether this treatment approach is suitable for their unique needs and health circumstances.
One of the primary factors to consider when contemplating hormone replacement therapy is the specific
symptoms you are experiencing. For women, common symptoms that may indicate a hormonal imbalance include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness associated with menopause. For men, symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and muscle loss could suggest low testosterone levels. If you are experiencing these symptoms and they are significantly
impacting your quality of life, hormone replacement therapy may be worth considering.
It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting hormone replacement therapy. The experts at OlympusMD Wellness can evaluate your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for
your individual needs. They can also explain the potential risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy, as well as discuss alternative treatment options.
When deciding whether hormone replacement therapy is right for you, it is essential to consider your overall health and medical history. Certain medical conditions, such as a history of breast cancer or blood clots, may affect the safety and suitability of hormone replacement therapy. The medical team at OlympusMD Wellness will take into account these factors when determining if HRT is a suitable option for you.
At OlympusMD Wellness, we take a holistic approach to wellness and we believe our personalized treatment plans can have a positive impact on your health journey. We also understand hormone replacement therapy can be extremely beneficial, but it may not right for everyone. Before seeking treatment of any kind, it’s important to speak with your primary care physician about your symptoms. Then, visit olympusmdwellness.com to schedule a free consultation at Hydralive Therapy. Hormone replacement therapy could be your path to better aging, renewed energy and improved mental well-being.
PROVIDED
Three options to replace that missing tooth
Brought to you by - Dr. Destinee Hood, Roswell Dental Care
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be all too aware of their importance to your looks and overall health. Your teeth are designed to work together to help you chew, speak, and smile. Replacing a missing tooth (or teeth) helps to make sure that all of your teeth continue to work together. Plus, it helps protect your remaining teeth.
Effects of a missing tooth
• It may be harder to speak or chew
• Remaining teeth can drift
• Bone loss can occur, which may cause remaining teeth to become loose over time
• Loss of teeth and bone can make your face sag, making you look older
Removable Partial Dentures
A removable prosthesis can replace multiple teeth on an upper or lower jaw. Partials clasp to your natural teeth and the replacement teeth are set in acrylic that matches your gum tissue. They are typically less expensive and can be removed when cleaning. However, they can break easier and may need to be replaced more than a bridge or implant.
Bridges
A bridge can replace one or more teeth and is permanently cemented into place. However, the teeth on either side of a missing tooth must be prepared and cleaning underneath the bridge requires more effort than other options.
Implants
An implant is a titanium post that resembles a tooth root and is surgically placed into the jaw. This serves as a strong support to hold replacement teeth. An implant is most similar to a natural tooth and, with proper home care and regular dental cleanings, can last for your lifetime. However, since it is a surgical procedure, implants may not be an option for everyone, especially those with chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure.
We always welcome new patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment for a FREE consultation to have your oral health or facial concern evaluated, give Roswell Dental Care a call at 470.288.1152 or visit www.RoswellDentalCare.com
•
• Crowns and Bridges in a few days
• Porcelain Veneers
• Tooth Colored Composite Fillings
• Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity
• Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients
• Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients
• Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation)
• Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments
• Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis
• Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos
• Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions!
• Electronic Records
• Accept and File all Major Insurances
• Implants
• Root Canals
• Extractions
Relaxing Atmosphere Our services include:
• Facial Aesthetic
Dr. David Remaley Dr. Destinee Hood
Ways the power of in-home care can boost your quality of life
guarantee a good
Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.
As we all age there comes a point when the need for in-home caregiving becomes obvious, especially when the physical activities of daily living become too difficult to manage without help. There are a wide variety of situations, however, when the power of in-home caregiving can be used to provide a major boost to the quality of life of you or your older loved one.
When home is in an assisted living community, in-home care can provide a bridge that gives you the freedom and flexibility to remain in the setting and with the friends you’ve come to love. Perhaps maintaining your independence will require extra help as you recuperate from an accident or surgery. Should fall risks emerge, your caregiver can add security and peace of mind. A skilled Home Helpers caregiver can make life and nights easier if your loved one is starting to wander. For couples, this also makes sure a good night’s rest happens for their partner. Adding in-home care to the services provided by your facility can get you through unexpected times and weave a strong layer of support that lets you continue to maintain the lifestyle you want.
Home Helpers can also provide companionship if your loved one is in a Rehabilitation Center. Recovery can often be challenging, and having a sitter who stays with them can provide both
emotional comfort and stability in unfamiliar surroundings. The warmth of a well-matched companion can also help speed up recovery and battle the loneliness that can delay their recovery. It’s a way to have peace of mind knowing someone is by their side and looking out for your loved one.
Over the years, the transition from the loss of a partner, career or shrinking circle of social contacts can make it feel like the world is smaller every day. Depression and loneliness can be as debilitating as any other health challenge. Almost a quarter of adults over age 65 are considered to be socially isolated. Forty three percent of adults in the United States over age 60 report feeling lonely. For your older loved one, promoting social interaction can truly be transformative. A caregiver with a heart centered approach and positive spirit can help reinvent ways to pursue a hobby, enjoy outings and community activities, and build relationships that make for a longer and better life.
We have a team with depth and skill that can provide the care you need from six hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 care. A Home Helpers caregiver can assist with all personal care, help around the house, accompany you on doctor’s visits and provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. For a free consultation, please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.
Turning toward
How stressed couples can support each other
to you
In a world where stress is often a common household guest, managing our reactions and maintaining positive connections with our spouses can be challenging. However, learning to turn towards rather than away from each other during stressful times can significantly strengthen a relationship. Here are some practical ways to achieve this:
1. Recognize the Signs of Stress
First and foremost, acknowledge when you’re stressed. It’s crucial to be aware of your body’s signals, such as tensed shoulders, a tight stomach, or a general feeling of unease. This awareness can prevent the stress from escalating and affecting your interactions with your spouse.
2. Employ Quick Stress-Relief Techniques
Before engaging with your partner, take a moment to reduce your stress level. Techniques such as the S.T.O.P. method (Stop, take a breath, Observe, Proceed) can be effective.
3. Initiate Connection
For many of us, experiencing stress can lead us to withdraw from others. Instead of withdrawing, try choosing to engage. Opening about your stressors can turn a potential disconnect into a moment of connection.
4. Listen Actively
Active listening involves fully concentrating on what is being said and your spouse’s emotional state rather than passively hearing the message of the speaker. This demonstrates empathy
and validates their feelings.
5. Plan Stress-Reducing Activities Together
Engage in activities that both of you find relaxing. It could be a walk, a shared hobby, or simply watching a favorite show together. Shared activities can not only reduce stress but also reinforce the bond of fondness and admiration between you.
6. Maintain Physical Closeness
Physical touch can be incredibly comforting and soothing in moments of stress. A hug, a gentle touch on the arm, or holding hands can release oxytocin, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm and connection.
Turning towards each other in times of stress involves a conscious decision to connect and communicate rather than withdraw into individual coping tactics. By adopting these approaches, couples can foster a supportive environment, enhancing their relationship resilience against the inevitable stresses of life.
Brought
by – Will Goodwin, M.A at Summit Counseling Center
Find solutions to back pain with Wellstar North Fulton Spine & Pain Center
Brought to you byDr. Emily Kurokawa, medical director of Wellstar North Fulton Spine & Pain Center
Back pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek physician care. Back pain can be emotionally, mentally and physically disabling. This can all lead to sleep deprivation, mood disruption and physical limitations. If you are experiencing back pain, the expert team at Wellstar North Fulton Spine & Pain Center will provide personalized care.
There are many causes of back pain, including degenerative disc disease, disc herniations, nerve root compression and trauma. More rare causes include autoimmune
disorders, inflammatory disorders, malignancy or pregnancy.
Symptoms can range from muscle soreness to joint aching or a shooting and burning sensation down the legs. There are “red flag” symptoms that may indicate serious causes for back pain. These symptoms may present as limb weakness, bowel or bladder incontinence, or pain that awakens you from sleep. However, most cases of back pain will resolve with rest and non-surgical treatments within a few weeks.
Non-surgical treatments may include muscle relaxants, topical creams, prescription medications or over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen. You may also benefit from applying heat or ice, resting and/ or seeing a physical therapist or a chiropractor.
If back pain lasts longer than six
weeks despite non-surgical therapies, then further imaging and/or injections may be needed. Injections may help reduce pain. Our boardcertified pain physicians offer a range of injections using corticosteroids into various joints or the spine.
A pain physician may recommend an epidural steroid injection if you have disc disease, spinal stenosis or disc herniations that lead to nerve compression. If you have back pain that does not travel to other parts of the body, you may be offered corticosteroid injections into the facet joints or sacroiliac joints, and if indicated, radiofrequency ablation may be offered for a longer therapeutic relief. Those who have had back surgeries and still have persistent back pain may be recommended for spinal cord stimulators, which are implanted devices that send electrical impulses
to the spine. Our pain physicians can also offer various other injections beyond the back. If you have pain in your neck, knee, shoulder or hip, our pain physicians can offer you conservative and non-surgical options.
Our patients at Wellstar North Fulton Spine & Pain Center have success because they have a whole team of experts working for them, and our board-certified pain physicians can guide you in the right direction. If you are a candidate for spine surgery, we refer you to our expert neurosurgeons at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, who are standing by to develop a surgical treatment plan that’s right for you.
Learn more about our services at wellstar.org/northfultonspineandpain, or call (770) 751-2719 to make an appointment.
KUROKAWA
Do YOU really think that you can make teeth last for 100 years?
Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health
“Hi, how are you doing today?”
She said, “Do you think that you can make teeth last for one hundred years?”
People are living longer. They need their teeth to last longer. Average life expectancy has been increasing for years now. I have never promised that I could make teeth last for 100 years. But it has become one of our goals at The Atlanta Center for Dental Health. I have a curious mind and have done some reading about longevity. Some great minds in science and medicine seem to be making incredible progress. Ray Kurzweil has postulated that in a few years we may reach escape velocity. His prediction is that scientific and medical advancement will reach a state of adding at least one year to life expectancy every year. Doesn’t that mean that I could live forever?
We can make teeth last 100 years, if we regularly care for our teeth and prevent problems. Maintaining dental health over a lifetime requires consistent care and good habits.
Daily Oral Hygiene
1. Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time. Make sure to reach all surfaces of your teeth and use a soft-bristled toothbrush
to avoid damaging your gums.
2. Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, where a toothbrush can’t reach.
3. Mouthwash: Use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to help reduce plaque, prevent gum disease, and strengthen tooth enamel.
Regular Dental Visits
1. Check-Ups: Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings and examinations. Early detection of problems like cavities or gum disease can prevent more serious issues.
2. Professional Cleaning: Regular professional cleanings remove tartar that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone.
Healthy Diet
1. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugar contributes to tooth decay. Try to minimize consumption of sugary snacks and beverages.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: Include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus help remineralize tooth enamel.
3. Drink Water: Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and staying hydrated is essential for good oral health.
Avoid Harmful Habits
1. No Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
2. Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to oral health issues.
3. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects, as this can cause fractures or wear down enamel.
Protective Measures
1. Use a Mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage.
2. Sealants: Dental sealants can be applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to protect them from decay.
Manage Overall Health
1. Control Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes can affect your oral health. Managing your overall health helps maintain
healthy teeth and gums.
2. Medications: Some medications can affect your oral health. Discuss with your dentist if you experience dry mouth or other side effects.
By following these guidelines and maintaining a proactive approach to your oral health, you can increase your chances of keeping your teeth healthy for a lifetime. Dentistry has incredible technology for repairing and restoring teeth. With dental implants and the vast array of great materials, we can do amazing things to fix and improve smiles. If we prevent diseases of teeth and gums and prevent people from just wearing out their teeth, I really believe that we can make teeth last 100 years.
“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 are dedicated to your health and longevity. We provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-9922236. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.
ADOBE STOCK
City Springs updates schedule for ‘Jersey Boys’ performances
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The City Springs Theatre Company announced an updated schedule for its production of “Jersey Boys” through Aug. 11 in the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center’s Byers Theatre.
The musical stars four local Metro Atlantan actors as Frankie Vallie and The Four Seasons. “Jersey Boys” follows the journey of four blue-collar kids from the streets to the top of music charts and their 1990 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
It premiered at San Francisco’s La Jolla Playhouse in 2004 and ran on Broadway from 2005 to 2017.
Atlanta’s-own Shane DeLancey directs the City Springs production with help from choreographer Meg Gillentine, conductor Miles Plant and
designer Mike Wood.
Individual tickets with prices ranging from $42-$108, are on sale with discounts for seniors, students, groups and military personnel.
The City Springs Theatre Company is a local nonprofit providing Broadway-quality productions to north Metro Atlanta’s diverse and growing population.
The nonprofit theater, led by Executive Director Natalie DeLancey with Tony Award-winner Shuler Hensley serving as artistic director, has served more than 175,000 patrons and 135,000 students through its mainstage musicals and education programs.
For information about showtimes and tickets, call 404-477-4365 or visit cityspringstheatre.com/.
The City Springs Theatre Company’s updated schedule of “Jersey Boys” performances in the Byers Theatre:
• Thursday, August 8 at 8:00pm
• Friday, August 9 at 8:00pm
Voter:
Continued from Page 9
visited the site before Monday’s flaw was fixed; and a couple hundred people had initiated cancellation requests as of Wednesday afternoon.
“At the end of the day … all these county [election office] folks, a human being still has to look at this to see if it seems right to them,” Sterling said. Anyone whose registration is canceled should receive a postcard in the mail double-checking the deletion.
Raffensperger’s office called the site “secure” when they announced its debut via press release Monday. The office touted it as a simple way for anyone moving out of state to remove themselves from the Georgia voter list, or to do so for a deceased family member.
“It will also help keep Georgia’s voter registration database up-to-date without having to rely on postcards being sent and returned by an increasingly inefficient postal system,” Raffensperger was quoted as saying in the Monday release.
Georgia Democrats this week have panned Raffenberger’s voter cancellation initiative, and the security
• Saturday, August 10 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm
• Sunday, August 11 at 2:00pm
snafus have enhanced the mistrust among many members of the state’s minority party. As Georgia moves from long-term Republican dominance to a place where more Democrats register to vote, margins as small as 12,000 votes matter in statewide elections.
Democrats fear the portal will be abused by conspiracy theorists and bad actors to wrongly disenfranchise voters.
One Democratic state senator said she saw her own personal information in plain text on the site. Her caucus called for the cancellation portal to be taken down altogether.
The state cancellation site still starts by asking for a person’s name, date of birth and county of residence to start the voter cancellation process.
Next, the site asks for the voter’s drivers license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number.
For a short period Monday morning, if a user clicked an option saying they don’t have a driver’s license, the site generated a form for the user to print and return by mail or email. Pressing that button to create the form exposed the personal information.
This story comes from The Current, an independent, in-depth and investigative journalism website for Coastal Georgia.
with system 2 How the weasel goes? 3 Infamous Amin
Some horizontal beams 5 Native Australian
Subcompact
17 Accelerator bit 19 Transmitted
21 It may be smoked
23 Quite a party
24 Requiem Mass word
25 Polynesian intoxicant
26 After horse or house
27 Plant with tiny white flowers
30 Hosp. injections
31 Slicker
34 Wipes out
“___ De-Lovely” 8 One of the “Katzenjammer Kids” 9 Repeated, singer who sang with Cult Jam 10 Plugs 11 Brunnhilde, e.g. 15 Saint-Germain’s river
36 Print measures
See solution Page 28
Attorney general joins Appen’s bid for Sandy Springs payroll records
By CARL APPEN carl@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Georgia Attorney General’s Office has joined a fight to pry loose payroll records from the grip of Sandy Springs officials, according to a July 18 letter sent to the city attorney.
In 2023, Sandy Springs spent more than $41 million on salaries and benefits for city employees. That’s about $370 per resident.
Through the Open Records Act, Appen Media requested data from the city in order to analyze that spending. The inquiry is one the newsroom regularly makes with all the municipalities it covers.
The city has repeatedly declined to release that information, instead redacting the names of all those who received a paycheck. It is the only city Appen Media covers which has withheld the da-ta.
Other cities will tell you who they pay.
As a result the newsroom has been unable to confirm who Sandy Springs is paying, how many peo-ple it employs or whether staff salaries are in line with other metro Atlanta governments.
Payroll information for public employees is subject to release under Georgia’s Open Records Act.
Appen Media previously used public records to report that a former assistant city manager re-signed from Sandy Springs in July 2023 after three months on the job. That employee received $47,196 in severance, according to documents the newspaper obtained. The City of Sandy Springs declined to comment on the matter, citing a
Facility:
Continued from Page 5
1,000 new trees and shrubs, trails as well as wetlands serves as a natural space and recreational resource to nearby residents, Horton said.
Facility representatives said their first purpose is to help the environment, but the campus also produces water that can be used for certain applications.
The non-potable water it yields is fed into the North Fulton County water reuse distribution system. The water is used for irrigation and fire protection. Special lavender-colored fire hydrants signify they contain water from the reuse system.
On July 24, a facility employee cleaned a campus walkway with a pressure washer fed by the reused water.
The Johns Creek Environmental Campus has been successful on many
“long-standing practice” not to address personnel matters.
In response to a March request for additional payroll data, the City of Sandy Springs redacted the name of every person who had received a check, including the mayor and city manager. When the newspaper asked for clarification on why that information was not released, city officials cited safety concerns.
Sandy Springs staff have also used the explanation that a city “security plan” mandates they with-hold payroll information. The city then denied requests to inspect that document, again citing safe-ty concerns.
Appen Media eventually filed a complaint with the state Attorney General’s Office over the city’s refusal to provide payroll information.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen
We’re not just in the business of cleaning water. We’re in the business of the environment.”
DAVID HORTON Program Manager, Johns Creek Environmental Campus
fronts since opening about 15 years ago, according to Horton. It’s a testament to the facility’s cutting-edge vision that its technology is starting to be used in other, nearby wastewater treatment centers in Gwinnett, Forsyth, Clayton and other counties.
“We were the first,” Horton said.
Settlemire wrote to the city about the topic April 4.
“It is unclear how either of the exemptions being relied upon by the city apply to the redacted por-tions of the record,” the letter states.
Settlemire wrote further that because she is not aware of all the circumstances of the situation, she is not assuming any wrongdoing by the city. The note ends by requesting the city respond within two weeks and explain their justification for the redactions.
Sandy Springs City Attorney Dan Lee replied April 15, offering an explanation similar to the ones Appen received. His letter to Settlemire cited the city’s obligation to “protect its employees,” and pointed to the Sandy Springs security plan.
In an electronic letter dated July 18, Settlemire responded that the Attorney
General’s Office was not satisfied that the city’s decision “comports with the legal requirements of the Open Records Act.”
Citing case law, legal rulings and the Georgia General Assembly, Settlemire countered Lee’s expla-nations.
“As to the employee names redacted, Georgia courts have expressly held that such names are, in fact, subject to disclosure,” the assistant attorney general wrote.
The three-page letter also speaks to the intent behind Georgia’s Sunshine Laws.
“Access to public records allows the public to know what actions their public servants are under-taking and fosters the public’s confidence in officials and the decisions that those officials make,” Settlemire wrote. “The failure to serve those purposes can lead to mistrust and controversy.”
After laying out the response, the Attorney General’s Office told Sandy Springs to turn over the data. “Accordingly, please ensure [Appen Media] is provided access to the requested record, inclusive of employee names and ‘position ids,’ within ten business days and confirm to our office when this has been accomplished,” Settlemire writes.
The letter ends with some advice.
“We strongly encourage you, as city attorney, to be mindful of the legal requirements and obliga-tions set forth in the Open Records Act and to counsel the city accordingly,” the note recommends. The city had until Aug. 1 to comply with the assistant attorney general’s directive.
As of press time Aug. 2 Appen Media had not received the information.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CARL APPEN
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA Program Manager David Horton tells visitors how waste is treated, stored and removed from the Johns Creek Environmental Campus on July 24. The $158-million facility was the first of its kind when it was built in 2009.
Splash:
kindergarten through eighth grade learn the principles of science, technology, engineering and math during her organization’s LEGOinspired engineering classes.
Rodriguez said Play-Well taps into the creativity of kids while keeping them interested in learning.
It was just one of the several activities available inside the Community Center during the Park and Recreation Department’s “Splash N’ Bash.”
Parks and Recreation Specialist Micaela Burke said for the first two hours, the city held its first Toddler Tuesday since the May 21 summer kickoff with toys and crafts geared toward children ages 1-4.
Toddler Tuesdays resume Aug. 13 between 9-11 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. at City Park and Preserve’s Community Center.
Burke said attendance at the “Back to School Splash N’ Bash” was evenly split between toddlers and school-aged children.
residents, Ranger Jen.
Burke said Young was not able to make it out due to the last scheduled session of the four-week Junior Ranger program.
“We had higher attendance and a lot of great feedback from the community,” Burke said. “Everyone really had fun.”
To make up for Ranger Jen’s absence this time, the Parks and Recreation Department made sure to have Kool Treats Sweet Bar open.
Cub Scout Pack 3000, based out of Birmingham United Methodist Church, spent the first half of the occasion marketing itself to potential Lion rank members, or first-grade Cub Scouts ages 6-7.
Pack 3000 is hosting an information session for parents of prospective Cub Scouts 6 p.m. Aug. 19 at the church’s Fellowship Hall.
The City Pool opened shortly after noon, and with temperatures rising above 90 degrees, many patrons made their way over.
A few local mothers said their children really loved all the activities, between glances over to the water slide to check on them.
The only thing missing at the celebration was Outdoor Recreation Supervisor Jen Young, or as she’s known among Milton’s youngest
With local volunteers and lifeguards watching children, parents took in the relaxing summer atmosphere before many local schools begin classes. Continued from Page 1
Harris:
Continued from Page 6
doctors for sending medication abortion in the mail, and Vance has demanded that the Department of Justice do that.” Harris’ campaign began just over 100 days ahead of Election Day, utilizing the infrastructure of Biden’s intended reelection campaign. Forsyth County’s coordinated campaign office was initially intended to support the Biden campaign, but quickly switched gears after the president announced July 21 that he was dropping his 2024 bid and endorsing Harris to succeed him.
Attendees of Sunday’s rally felt that the switch, while sudden, had energized some Democrats who were less enthusiastic about Biden and would bolster the party’s turnout in November. Bonnie Avera, a resident of Johns Creek, said she was happy to have Harris at the top of the Democratic ticket, as she would be more responsive to women’s rights issues.
“We’ve been ‘othered’ for a long time,” Avera said. “I think it’s a woman’s time to be the leader of America. There are leaders all over the world that are women, and it’s time for us to join that crowd.”
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Ezra Trotman, vocal instructor at local music school Bach to Rock, tattoos an evergrowing line of youngsters during the Park and Recreation Department’s “Back to School Splash N’ Bash.” Bach to Rock is located off Crabapple Road in The Silos shopping center.
JAKE DRUKMAN/APPEN MEDIA
Ashwin Ramaswami, a candidate for Georgia State Senate District 48, speaks at a Democratic campaign office opening July 28.
Plan:
Continued from Page 1
Because it’s state route, the Georgia Department of Transportation is the only agency that can make transportation improvements along the corridor.
During a dialogue between the city’s contractors and interested residents, people mentioned GDOT’s proposed project to widen Ga. 140 to four lanes as another reason for the city to develop its own guidelines for future development.
Nick Johnson, planner with TSW, went over project milestones and what the Arnold Mill Road corridor may look like moving forward.
The Aug. 1 open house is the last of three scheduled public input opportunities, with draft concepts for activity nodes and residential areas coming next before a completed plan in October.
Any code and design guidelines are anticipated after Halloween.
The City Council would need to approve the small area plan before any changes are considered.
Plan has two commercial nodes
Plans for Arnold Mill Road center around mixed-use activity nodes at Cox and Chadwick roads, solutions to traffic congestion and design guidelines in keeping with the corridor’s rural character.
The recommendations for concentrated new development are to explore zoning updates, maintain permitted uses under agricultural (AG-1) districts, promote walkability and connectivity, preserve natural resources, add retail with amenities and ensure overall development matches Milton’s character.
The vision for transportation projects is to relieve traffic congestion along Arnold Mill Road without losing its pastoral charm. Recommendations include multi-use trails in preparation
TSW
for the state route’s widening, new roadway connections to nearby streets and establishing the city’s wishes before GDOT begins widening the roadway.
For the first activity node at Cox Road, TSW Design offered two concepts: traditional subdivision or rural hamlet.
Both plans have a 10.5-acre greenspace included at 12875 Arnold Mill Road and 12912 New Providence Road, which is opposite the Five Star Dog Resort.
City buys land
The Milton City Council voted to enter into a binding agreement to acquire the properties for $1.75 million April 8, with some public input given over the summer.
Communications Director Greg Botelho told Appen Media Aug. 2 that the extension of due diligence has expired, and the city expects to close on the acquisition in the next few days.
In late July, City Manager Steve Krokoff told Appen Media that the acquisition is strategic in many ways.
“One of the primary factors influencing this decision is its prime location on Ga. 140, a major route that ensures easy accessibility for our residents,” he said. “This strategic positioning is similar to the proposed
athletic complex on Deerfield Parkway, which has been recognized for its advantageous location.”
Krokoff said he thinks the city owning property on major thoroughfares is a win-win, keeping development away from residential neighborhoods.
“Properties located on major routes provide superior accessibility for all residents, ensuring that community services and facilities are within easy reach,” Krokoff said. “High-traffic locations offer increased visibility for city projects and properties, raising awareness among residents and promoting community pride and participation.”
Historical Society is focused
The McConnell-Chadwick House, bringing about a half dozen Milton Historical Society members, is a part of the Arnold Mill Small Area Plan.
TSW Design’s Johnson said the historical site is included in plans, but it’s up to the city to accept the donation and fund its preservation and/or restoration.
The homestead of former state senator and Brig. Gen. Eli McConnell is a Greek Rival-style structure built in the late 1830s using the same architecture as Roswell’s Bulloch Hall.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation named it one of nine “2023 Places in Peril” thanks in part to the historical society’s efforts.
While current owner Larry Chadwick told the city he would donate the home and surrounding property for free, the city has yet to accept the donation.
Because the home is falling apart after more than 150 years of wear and tear, the cost of preserving the historical gem is unknown.
Public Works Director Sara Leaders said staff are still assessing conditions and potential costs of accepting the donation of the McConnell-Chadwick House.
Historical Society members at the Aug. 1 open house said they believe the cost of stabilizing the oldest home in the city is a no-brainer.
Process continues through fall
The most in-depth discussions at the Aug. 1 open house revolved around the city’s large lot incentives and the economic viability of the proposed Arnold Mill Small Area Plan.
The developer who sold the Arnold Mill properties to the city said he thinks the density of residence at activity hubs will not keep the corridor’s businesses viable.
The city’s residential zoning, focus on large lot incentives and public opinion contrasts some calls for denser residential developments.
Former City Councilman Bil Lusk warned staff at the open house about residents’ concerns with increasing density in the city.
After the open house, TSW planners said they will incorporate feedback from residents into their draft plan.
The City Council needs to approve the small area plan later this fall before any recommended code and design guidelines are considered.
Most attendees agreed that the Arnold Mill Road corridor is a gateway to Milton for many visitors and residents and it should reflect the city’s character, as seen throughout the Crabapple district.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Design planner Nick Johnson, pictured right, chats with members of the Milton Historical Society Aug. 1 about the fate of the McConnell-Chadwick House in the developing Arnold Mill Small Area Plan.
Be curious, not judgmental, again
The parking in Blowingrock was insane; there was none.
Blowingrock is a small Western North Carolina town near Boone - the home of Appalachian State University, and within a mile or two of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s about five hours from Atlanta, a couple hours from Charlotte, and about an hour from Ashville. That is, Blowingrock is a destination for city folks - not unlike 30-A (in the Florida panhandle) is for many, but with the Parkway and a number of relatively unspoiled national forests instead of an ocean. It is a hiking mecca with temperate weather, mountain views, to die-for golf courses, and - in theory - a slower, healthier pace of life.
Fulltime population of the town hovers somewhere around 1,500 people. The seasonal population
THE INK PENN
swells to, depending on where you source the data, somewhere between 5,000 and 12,000. The number of hotel rooms and seasonal “housing units” - which would include condos and Air B&B-type of accommodations is estimated at around 500-600.
If you do the math, that ratio of visitors to accommodations is, well, “tight.” The town has a number of restaurants, as well as outfitters, and boutique stores. It is quaint, very quaint - as beautiful and idyllic as any that I have encounteredever. We were there for the first time recently for a wedding.
But the waiting lines had waiting lines and parking, well, don’t get me started. Ok, get me started. Finding a parking space - or a table at a restaurant - in Blowingrock reminds me of those places where you pan for gold or dig for rubies. It’s not that there isn’t actually some gold or some rubies to be found, it is that the odds of finding any are nobueno - as in extremely unlikely.
On the first night there we spent about three hours searching for a
parking space and a restaurant that was not full. We heard “you can wait at the bar for someone to leave” almost everywhere we went. The one time that we actually did wait at the bar, we finally gave up after over an hour waiting for someone to leave, and in the face of not so polite competition for the couple potential future open spaces at the bar. We finally decided to just try to go to the market - like a downtown mini grocery store - instead of a restaurant and make sandwiches back at our hotel. I thought that I spotted an open parking space and pulled in. Nope. What I had seen for an open parking space was instead, a highly polished, black, probably 2023 or ’24 Suburban that was parked exactly in the middle of two parking spaces. Seriously. It was breathtakingly bad and disrespectful beyond imagination. I turned to Christina and said that I would bet dollars to donuts that the Suburban has a Fulton County tag. Sure enough, as we double parked waiting for a space to open up, two men
came out of the market, got into the Suburban and drove off - with their Georgia Fulton county license tag and all.
Yep, it is really really hard for me to be curious, not judgmental all the time, but I am trying. That Suburban about did me in. I don’t know why I had this expectation that in this tiny town in western North Carolina that people would be, what, less selfish, less in a hurry, more plain old decent. I suppose that there could have been some good reason they parked in the middle of two parking spaces other than just not wanting any other cars close to theirs or that they were simply one of those folks who think that they are in some way better than everyone else for some twisted delusional myopic reason. Anyway, if you are at a redlight in Alpharetta next week and you get honked at for not immediately preceding at the green light, look in the rear-view mirror and see if it’s not a shiny black suburban behind you. Kidding! No I’m not.
The perks of being an avid reader
I’ve been an avid reader my whole life. In grammar school, I lived for the book fairs, and I was the girl in high school who always had a novel tucked inside her textbook. I learned all I needed to know about the Kings and Queens of England from historical novels by Phillipa Gregory, Anya Seton, Jean Plaidy, and goodness knows who else. Of course, I majored in English in college. What else was a girl to do?
The number one perk is the pure joy I get from reading a good book, which is why I read every night, often two-three books a week. Next is what I learn. It was the Maisie Dobbs series that introduced me to the impact of the first World War on England— beyond the actual bombs and devastation to a generation of young men. A dry history book is not for me. It’s novels I crave.
What I never imagined is that
later in life, I would become a worldfamous columnist writing about books. Do you see my tongue firmly planted in my cheek? I’m certainly not famous, but a bit of attention has come my way because of my book columns in the Dunwoody Crier.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting with book clubs to discuss my books, my path to writing, and books I recommend. When a member of Sisters in Crime Atlanta read my columns, she invited me to attend a monthly Reader Rendezvous meeting. What fun to chat with a group of mystery readers about the latest books we’ve enjoyed.
That invitation led to my joining SINC Atlanta and participating in lots of book festivals. And yes, on occasion, someone reads the byline for my columns and picks up one of my books.
The latest perk came my way when the communications manager for a major publisher noticed my columns. She wrote to ask if I’d care to read any of the mysteries and thrillers the firm planned to release this year and sent me a list to consider.
The first thing that caught my eye was an October release by Colleen Cambridge, so that went on the list. But I also found several new to me authors. This week’s review is about a debut novel described as “Maisie Dobbs meets James Bond.” How could I resist?
“A Jewel in the Crown” by David Lewis
Set in England during WWII, it features Caitrin Colline, a strong, talented female protagonist. Charged by Winston Churchill with removing the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London and driving them north to Scotland, an unlikely pair of secret agents sets out under the cover of darkness. They are to safeguard the jewels at all costs so that they don’t fall into the hands of the Nazis. It’s not long, of course, before the plan goes awry.
Is there any doubt that Caitrin Colline, a Welsh coalminer’s daughter, will save the day? Author David Lewis has given us a wellresearched, action-packed caper filled with witty dialogue. I wasn’t
surprised to read that he was an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker. That background shines through in this tale that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime several nights in a row.
Trust me when I tell you that there is not a boring moment in this novel. Lewis tells us he has more Caitrin Colline stories to share, so I’m eagerly awaiting Book II. The series may be dubbed “The Secret Churchill Files”, but like the Maisie Dobbs series I so love, I’ll read it to learn more about Caitrin Colline.
This book ticks all my boxes—set in England, strong female lead, well plotted mystery, and more. I highly recommend you grab it now. Happy reading!
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, Tall Tales, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ KathyManosPennAuthor/.
KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist
RAY APPEN
Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
OPINION
Gen. Jack Singlaub, a military legend with ties to Georgia (Pt. 2)
In a previous column I described the career of legendary Maj. General John (Jack) Singlaub, a highly decorated veteran of World War II, Korea and Viet Nam who died January, 2022 at the age of 100.
In 1943 Jack received a commission to join the U.S. Army as a Second Lieutenant even though he was a semester shy of graduation from UCLA. He was quickly recruited by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor of the Central Intelligence Agency and U.S. Army Special Forces, known as the Green Berets.
Singlaub’s first assignment was as a member of a three-man team that parachuted behind German lines in France soon after the D-Day invasion of June 1944 to help French resistance fighters. Jack became an expert and leader in unconventional and covert operations in Europe, Korea and Vietnam. His military career came to an end in Georgia when his views opposing President Carter’s defense policies were widely publicized. Here is his story.
In 1977 General Singlaub was serving as Chief of Staff of U.S. Forces in South Korea. In an interview with the Washington Post he was asked on “background,” that is without attribution, about the position of the South Korean military regarding President Carter’s publicly stated objective of removing U.S. ground forces from the Korean peninsula over a period of four to five years. The Korean Armistice was signed in 1953 and U.S. troops remained in South Korea as a deterrent. The president thought South Korea was able to protect itself.
President Carter was not pleased when he saw the report of the general’s interview, even though the idea of troop withdrawal was unpopular with the U.S. military, the U.S. intelligence community and the South Korean government. Unlike the case of General Douglas MacArthur, who violated a direct order from President Truman to clear policy statements before issuing them, General Singlaub pledged to implement the President’s order even though he thought the move would lead to a future war.
The general’s remarks to the reporter, which Singlaub thought were off the record, received wide news coverage. President Carter relieved Singlaub of his post, and Singlaub was reassigned to Fort McPherson in Atlanta as Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM), one of the Army’s largest command centers. The president said the general “was not being chastised or punished” but transferred because his Korean post would have directly involved him in implementing the policy he was criticizing. Ironically, the President later abandoned the idea of withdrawing US troops from Korea and they are still there today.
Fort McPherson occupied almost 500 acres in southwest Atlanta and is one of the largest U.S. military bases. It operated from 1885 until its closure in 2011. It was named after Union Major General James McPherson who was killed during the Battle of Atlanta in the Civil War. Forty buildings constructed beginning in the late 1800s now
Part 1
Read the first part of this column on General Jack Singlaub at appenmedia.com.
SINGLAUB FAMILY/PROVIDED
General Singlaub and his family resided in a historic house at Fort McPherson built in 1888, a house where former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once stayed and where General Colin Powell lived at one time.
constitute a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 2015 filmmaker Tyler Perry purchased a majority of the base’s land for use as his film studio. He preserved the historic district and uses some of the buildings as movie sets according to a staffer at the studio.
Relations between President Carter and the general suffered another blow during his assignment in Atlanta. General Singlaub criticized several of the president’s national security policies in response to questions during a lecture to ROTC cadets at Georgia Tech University in April 1978, once again supposedly off the record. However, the resulting news stories led to the general’s forced retirement, but not his presence in the public arena.
In retirement he headed two anti-Communist organizations, the World Anti-Communist League and the U.S. Council for World Freedom. At one point in his career, he headed the U.S. Parachute Association and led the U.S. Army parachute team in competitions around the world, earning the nickname “Jumping Jack.” He received many awards and published his memoirs, including a lot of military history, titled Hazardous Duty, in 1991.
Another little-known aspect of the General’s amazing career is his key role in establishing the program for training Army Rangers at Fort Benning, Georgia in the early 1950s where he was an
instructor and battalion executive officer. In 2023 the base name was changed to Fort Moore. The training program still exists, partly at Fort Moore and partly at Camp Frank D. Merrill near Dahlonega where students learn military mountaineering techniques.
Jack’s career had an impact on his daughter Mary Ann Singlaub, the youngest of the general’s three children. She worked in the South Korean Consulate General in Atlanta in 1977-1978 and worked in the language lab at Georgia State during her father’s assignment. The consulate experience was her first exposure to diplomacy and after graduating from the University of Colorado and earning her Master of Science in Foreign Service at Georgetown University, Mary Ann joined the U.S. the Foreign Service.
General Jack Singlaub, a name synonymous with valor and unconventional clandestine warfare, affected the lives of thousands of American soldiers and civilians in far-away places. His life was a tale of determination, commitment to his soldiers and to his country.
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
US ARMY/PROVIDED
On the left shoulder of General John (Jack) Singlaub is a U.S. Army Ranger insignia patch and a U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) patch. Both played important roles in General Singlaub’s career.
Bye-bye Miss American Dream
D.C. AIKEN Guest Columnist
This week’s “pop” hit is the 1972’s “American Pie” by Don McLean. Part of the American Dream has always been about home ownership. But it appears that this “dream” seems to be slowly going away based on recent statistics.
In 1980, the average age of the firsttime home buyer was 29, and they went onto purchase their next home by the age of 35. Today, the average age of the
PAST TENSE
first-time home buyer is 35, and they are not purchasing their next/move up home until the age of 58!
Part of this issue is that more and more young Americans are attending four-year colleges, and then many going onto some sort of graduate degree which does push them out of the “workforce” until their mid-20 to late 20’s.
The other part is affordability. This has been a recent discussion and blamed for the housing business’ recent decline. Rates pushing 20-year highs and prices soaring to record levels is keeping many potential first-time homebuyers out of the game for now. Homeownership creates pride in your
community. Statistics show that areas of high home ownership concentrations have lower crime rates and higher educational ratings. All these things help move the economy in the right direction.
Hopefully, the Federal Reserve and our elected folks in Washington will start looking at what they have done to our “healthy” (their word not mine) economy and begin to move rates down so that more of our young Americans can afford the home of their dreams. Thirty-five years old is the “average” age of purchasing their first home. That is way too high and has a rippling affect throughout our overall economy.
Housing has always led our economy in positive ways. I have already discussed the educational and safety benefits…but home ownership also creates jobs, and those with jobs spend money on good and services that creates other jobs. It is truly a simple concept.
D.C. Aiken is vice president, producing production manager for BankSouth Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.
The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of BankSouth Mortgage or its affiliates.
Austin Elementary could have been Spirit of ’76 Elementary
The story of Nettie Southern Austin, the namesake of Austin Elementary School, has been told in this column before. However, I was surprised to read about other names suggested for the Dunwoody elementary school before it opened in September 1975.
The March 27, 1975, edition of the Atlanta Journal featured an article, “DeKalb officially picks names for two new schools,” listing other names being considered for the school. Students, teachers and local citizens submitted ideas. The other DeKalb County school receiving an official name was Stone Mill Elementary School.
One of the suggestions for the school which became Austin Elementary was Chester, honoring the former owner of the property. Harry M. and Mildred Chester lived where the school was built, next to neighbor T. K. Peters. The former Peters home is now part of Dunwoody Nature Center. Across Roberts Drive lived the Swancey family in the old home that still stands. Harry M. Chester was personnel administrator for the Georgia Health Department.
C.L. Harper School was also on the list of recommended names. Harper was a former DeKalb County Schools assistant superintendent. Former DeKalb County Schools Assistant Superintendent Sam Moss was also suggested. The superintendent of
DeKalb County schools, Jim Cherry, already had a school named for him on Hermance Drive in Brookhaven.
Apple’s Way School was suggested, perhaps because there were still farms and fruit groves in Dunwoody.
With the bicentennial coming up the following year, Liberty School and Spirit of ’76 are not surprising suggestions. Although Spirit of ’76 Elementary School is a bit of a tongue twister. We Believe was also suggested, which needs clarification.
The final name suggested but not chosen was Roberts Drive School. Since
Roberts Drive is named for the 40-year engineer of the Roswell Railroad, the school would also have been named for engineer Ike Roberts.
One name not mentioned in the Atlanta Journal article is recorded in an oral history of several Dunwoody citizens in 1994, Elizabeth Davis School. Davis was a teacher and principal of Dunwoody School.
The name chosen in 1975 was Austin Elementary, honoring teacher and principal Nettie Southern Austin. Austin was born in Dunwoody in 1882 and attended teacher training at the
State Normal School in Athens, Georgia. She was honored by former students and the Dunwoody community in 1949. A surprise garden party was held at Boxwood Farms, which is now Donaldson-Bannister Farm. (Atlanta Constitution, “Teacher of 46 years gets surprise fete of lifetime,” May 18, 1949)
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.
AUSTIN FAMILY PHOTO
Nettie Austin and her students gather in front of the Dunwoody School in the 1940s.
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist
OPINION
GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA!
Tell us about Cartersville’s Tellus Museum
STEVE HUDSON Columnist
Two of our grandkids are visiting this week, and that brings up the big question: “What can we do today?”
Some days it’s with fishing, which we did the other evening. Many were caught. Much fun was had. It was great.
Then came swimming, always a good choice on a hot summer day. We swam and splashed for hours, and not a single shark was seen. That was great too.
And then, “What should we do tomorrow?”
We considered collectively.
“How about we visit that science museum up off I-75?” my wife says. “They say it’s a good one!”
And they are right.
The museum she has in mind is the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Ga., just off I-75 at exit 293.
The museum got its start in 1983 as the Weinman Mineral Museum. Closing in 2007, the Weinman was reborn in 2009 as the Tellus Science Museum. It is one that you absolutely have to see.
Today, this 120,000-square-foot museum features four major galleries – the world-class Weinman Mineral Gallery, an expansive Fossil Gallery, the Millar Science in Motion Gallery with exhibits spotlighting many facets of transportation, and the Collins Family My Big Back Yard Gallery featuring all sorts of hands-on activities.
The main building also boasts the state-of-the-art Bentley Planetarium, which features planetarium presentations for a small additional charge, plus a gift shop and a café. There are also outdoor exhibits (including some massive rock specimens, some giant mining machinery, and a solar-powered house). Other outdoor highlights include an observatory, a wind turbine, and the Czahor Solar System Trail, a scale model of our solar system from the sun all the way out to Pluto.
It’s all intriguing, and it may be hard to decide where to start. But the kids make that decision easy. They want to start with fossils and gems – specifically, the area where they can hunt for fossils and gems of their own.
After getting our tickets, we make a beeline for the digging areas. There are two of them – the Vesta Mayo Dalia Fossil Dig and the Vulcan Materials Gem Panning Area.
“Most folks start with the fossil area,” suggests the volunteer we meet as we step inside. “That way, your hands will be dry while you’re digging for fossils!”
STEVE HUDSON/APPEN MEDIA
Bates and Cora search for fossils at the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville. Prospectors are allowed to find as many fossils as they like, but they can keep only one.
The fossil area consists of several dig zones, each filled with sandy dirt that is absolutely loaded with fossils just waiting for prospectors young and old.
“Can we keep them?” one young visitor asks. “Can we please?”
“You can find as many as you want,” replies another nearby volunteer, smiling, “but you can only keep one!”
“How about us older prospectors?” I ask.
“Yes, you can keep one too,” he says, then adds with a grin. “But remember –just one!”
Cora and Bates are already on their way to the fossil dig. The attendant gives each of them a small paintbrush, which they’ll use to sweep away the dirt and expose those treasures from eons gone by, plus a small plastic bag in which to place their keeper.
The searching begins, and it’s not 10 seconds till Cora calls out, “Found one!”
She’s found a fossilized shark tooth. A moment later she finds another…and another…and then she finds something different, a small cylindrical fossil known as a crinoid. She keeps looking and keeps finding and soon has a dozen or more fossils in her hand.
“Which one are you taking home?” I ask her.
“Hmmm,” she says, and finally selects one of the shark’s teeth. Bates chooses his keeper, too, and then they’re off to gem panning to try their luck there.
The gem panning is done in water. Everywhere I look are kids (including some, like me, who are several decades old!) washing through sand and looking for small bits of colorful rock. Everybody is finding things, and the “oohs!” and “ahhs” are constant.
Now that’s how to get folks excited
about science!
After a while, it’s time to explore the rest of the museum – and Bates proclaims his vote to head for the fossil gallery.
To say this is an impressive fossil display would be an understatement. There are specimens of all sorts from all over the world, but the stars are the dinosaurs. Among the highlights: a Brontosaurus, a massive Triceratops, and an impressive Tyrannosaurus rex. What can anyone say about T. rex except “AWESOME!”
Equally impressive is the Weinman Mineral Gallery, where you can spend hours mesmerized by a universe of spectacular rocks and minerals. The displays are largely organized by type or by point of origin, with a great deal of space devoted to minerals and gems from right here in Georgia. Among the highlights is a display featuring meteorites, including a large one that visitors can touch. Other highlights include a truly impressive presentation of Georgia gold as well as spectacular mineral crystals and specimens from some of our state’s most legendary collecting spots. Who would have thought that Georgia holds so many mineralogical treasures? There’s plenty of room to appreciate those exhibits, too, and I never felt like we were crowded or rushed as we wandered among the displays.
One thing I’ve always been interested in is fluorescent minerals – that is, those which glow with vivid color under invisible ultraviolet light. The Tellus Museum’s fluorescent minerals display features large specimens that are among the best I’ve ever encountered, and the automated display is accompanied by recorded commentary that clearly explains what you’re seeing. I stood there and cycled through the presentation three times.
I see I’ve been talking about rocks a lot, haven’t I? And yet there’s so much more than rocks to talk about at Tellus. One thing is the museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium, which presents an ongoing series of shows throughout the day. If you have not experienced just how impressive a high-tech planetarium can be, then you owe it to yourself to check this one out.
There’s also the Millar Science in Motion Gallery and the adjoining Crossroads Gallery, which focus on the mechanical side of things. In the Millar Gallery, highlights include early autos and motorbikes, each presented atop a mirrored base so you can see the underside as well. You’ll find more modern machines, too, among them: a full-size replica of the Wright Brothers’ flying machine, a modern helicopter, and a jet engine, plus space vehicles from the Apollo and Mercury programs.
And (back to rocks!), there is even a 3.3-billion-year-old piece of moon rock on display! It’s in a special case back behind the Science in Motion Gallery. Designated “Lunar Sample 15555,1033,” it was collected in August of 1971 by the crew of Apollo 15. It’s part of a 21-pound specimen known as “Great Scott” in honor of astronaut Dave Scott, who collected in from the north rim of what moon experts call the Hadley Rille.
Nearby, in the Collins Family My Big Backyard gallery and the adjoining Discovery Garden, budding scientists of all ages can indulge in what the museum map calls “hands-on science fun” involving sound, light, electricity, magnetism and more.
It takes a while to experience all of this, and after a while I realize that the clock has been ticking for hours. Where did the day go? If we stay much longer, we’ll be closing the place down. We decide to call it a day.
We stop on the way home to get takeout for supper. We eat informally on the island in the kitchen.
After supper, we sit in the living room, and I have an idea.
“Hey kiddos!” I say. “Want to help me sort some rocks?”
“Sure!”
I spread an old tablecloth on the island so we don’t scratch things up. Then I pull out a couple of bins of mineral specimens…and we settle in for an hour or two of rock-sorting bliss.
Later, I ask myself a question: Why do rocks fascinate us so?
I don’t know that I can ever really answer that one.
But they do, maybe because they endure.
Good things do that, you know, and I am glad.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE CITY OF MILTON WILL HOLD A
SPECIAL CALLED COUNCIL MEETING
August 12, 2024 6:00 PM
(To Immediately Follow the Regularly Scheduled Work Session) AT CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
GEORGIA 30004
CITY OF MILTON
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 6:00 P.M.
Location: Milton City Hall – Council Chambers 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2540
On the date and time, and at the location stated above, the Design Review Board shall conduct a public hearing to consider the following applications for Certificate of Appropriateness.
1. Demolition Permit Review:
Address: 1255 Birmingham Road
Applicant: Scott D. Reece
Request for Proposals
Wayfinding and Gateway Signage Design and Masterplan RFP NUMBER
Names for submissions received will be publicly announced via a virtual opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. 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 highly qualified firms for consultant planning services to prepare the Wayfinding and Gateway Signage Design and Masterplan, including but not limited to research, analysis, public engagements, design, and plan development which includes signage types, styles, and location master planning. 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-CD03, Wayfinding and Gateway Signage Design and Masterplan will be posted on the following websites the week of August 1, 2024: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
Request for Proposals
Construction Management at Risk Services for Deerfield Area Active Park
RFP NUMBER 24-PW10
Proposal Due Date: August 22, 2024, by 2:00PM Local Time
Names for submissions received will be publicly announced via a virtual opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. 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 parties to provide construction management at risk services for development of a new active recreation park in the Deerfield Area of Milton, Georgia. 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-PW10, Construction Management at Risk Services for Deerfield Area Active Park will be posted on the following websites the week of July 25, 2024: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
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INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
While covering Milton election operations, Appen Media analyzed historical voter data and identified possible disenfranchisement.
This reporting caused a statewide watchdog to get involved and, eventually, the city moved to add a polling place to the area. Later in the year, Appen discovered that the feasibility report the City Council used when voting to run their own elections was not the original document. Two residents on a working committee had altered it after city staff had completed it and before its presentation to council. Appen Media reporters identified all of the differences between the two documents and then created an interactive digital document. Readers and officials were able to scroll through the materials and read notes from the newsroom explaining the differences. You can find this document at appenmedia.com/electionsreport.
