Milton Herald - December 12, 2024

Page 1


BRIDGE PLANS

Milton considers aesthetics in bridge replacement plans

LEADERS

MILTON, Ga. — With upgrades underway on four bridges across the city, Milton officials discussed plans to begin work on two more during their Dec. 2 meeting.

The proposed state and federally funded bridge replacement projects span Little River at the Cherokee County border along Hickory Flat and Clarity roads in northwest Milton. The structures are just a few hundred yards apart.

The bridge on Clarity Road is 70 years old and has a lower condition rating than the 56-year-old crossing on Hickory Flat Road.

Milton has 31 locally owned bridges but monitors only six that do not meet length requirements for Georgia Department of Transportation inspection. Other bridges are on state routes.

For the three replacement projects underway, Milton has contributed $250,000 to their $13 million cost from its portion of countywide sales taxes. Those replacements are along Hopewell, Freemanville and McGinnis Ferry roads.

Meanwhile, the city’s TSPLOST fund is paying for the $3 million replacement of the middle Birmingham Road bridge and $800,00 in general repairs to other crossings.

The city has three options for funding bridge repairs and replacements, apply for direct federal grants, continue to use state resources or tap the city’s capital funds.

GDOT provides a cost-saving opportunity for the city. The agreement requires a local contribution of $50,000 for each replacement, totaling $3.5 million for the Hickory Flat Road bridge and $1.6 million for the one on Clarity Road.

The catch is GDOT will design and construct the local bridges. While the state’s priorities are cross-county connectivity and the structure’s load capacity, Milton wants them to fit with its brand.

The recommendation comes through the state agency’s local bridge replacement program, primarily because of the structures’ worsening conditions and weight restrictions.

After discussion, Milton officials told Public Works Director Sara Leaders to ensure the Georgia Department of Transportation meets all the city’s conditions before proceeding with state funding on both replacements. There is

See PLANS, Page 22

Transformative season for youth football program proves successful

MILTON, Ga — It’s not often that a team’s first year in a new league yields success on the field, and it’s even more unlikely that integrating a smaller league into a bigger one would yield success across the board. A new league was no match for the teams representing Cambridge, Milton and Alpharetta (making up the North Atlanta Football League), all of which saw immense success after joining the Cobb Football League this season.

Teams from the North Atlanta Football League that compete in tackle

football saw a transition this season to participate in the Cobb Football League. Second through fifth graders competed in a new league, and every team saw success with most making their championship game.

Both teams representing Cambridge’s class of 2032 (5th grade) reached the championship game at their level. The white team, coached by Thomas Delahunt, despite a serious defensive fight, fell to Walton on the last play of the game, final score 128. The blue team, coached by Austin Ragans, took down Marietta 16-0. The

See FOOTBALL,

MALIAH GOLDEN/PROVIDED Cambridge’s white team fifth grade captains take the field for the coin toss at Lassiter High School Nov. 23. The Bears blue team team won over Marietta, 160, and the 6A team fell to Walton 12-8.

NEWS TIPS

770-442-3278

AppenMedia.com

319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT

Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance.

ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in the Milton Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@ appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

CIRCULATION

To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

POLICE BLOTTER

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

Fairburn man arrested in reported gun threat

MILTON, Ga. — Employees of a sports bar off Ga. 9 reported to police Nov. 20 that they saw a patron speeding in the parking lot, doing donuts.

One employee said the driver threatened to shoot him after a confrontation, then began shooting at the ground, according to the incident report. Police found bullet casings were in the parking lot.

The employee told police he saw the driver hand his ID to an underage man inside the bar so that he could buy himself drinks. The employee declined the ID from the underage person and told managers about the situation, the report says.

The employee said the driver, identified as a 30-year-old Fairburn man, paid in cash and provided his name.

The scene was turned over to detectives.

The next day, the suspect was booked into the Fulton County Jail and charged with two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and reckless driving, according to jail records.

Amber Perry

Woman attempts theft of $3,400 in retail items

MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a 52-year-old Milton woman Nov. 26 for attempting to shoplift nearly $3,400 in clothing, accessories and makeup from Kohl’s on Ga. 9.

An employee alerted police while the suspect was still in the store, concealing items and taking an abnormally long

time in the bathroom.

When officers conducted a welfare check on the suspect, they located multiple purses belonging to Kohl’s with their price tags removed, according to the incident report. Police also discovered the suspect had a Ziploc bag containing several cut-off price tags for different items belonging to Kohl’s that were unpaid for.

Police arrested the suspect and charged her with felony theft by shoplifting, then transported her to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Amber Perry

Police clock driver at 60 mph above limit

MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a 49-year-old Milton man Nov. 29 after he was clocked speeding at 100 mph in a 40-mph zone on Bethany Road.

When police pulled him over, the man said he was speeding because he was showing off how quick his 2022 Porsche Panamera was to his passengers.

Police charged the man with speeding and reckless driving and transported him to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

The man’s son took control of the vehicle and left the scene.

Amber Perry

Woman sought for fraud in phone contract switch

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A fraud was reported at a North Point Parkway cellular store Nov. 21.

A 40-year-old Norcross man told officers his ex-girlfriend had fraudulently transferred a cell phone from AT&T to another provider, according to an Alpharetta police report.

The woman provided a PIN for the AT&T account and accessed his account, the man said.

An AT&T employee said the woman provided a driver’s license that matched

his appearance.

The man was charged $657.93 for the transfer.

The alleged crime was classified as a felony identity fraud of a person.

Jon Wilcox

Driver finds bullet hole in truck after incident

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Officers investigated a report of aggravated assault stemming from an alleged road rage incident Nov. 21.

Officers met with a 55-year-old man at a Cumming gas station on McFarland Parkway, according to an Alpharetta police report. The man, whose address and city were not included in the report, showed officers a bullet hole on the side of his truck.

Police suspect the hole was caused by a 9mm bullet.

The man said he heard a noise and something impact his vehicle after a white or silver Chevrolet Cruze prevented him from merging into a lane on Morrison Parkway.

The man said he saw no gun and could not identify a driver or license plate.

The man estimated the damage at $3,000.

Jon Wilcox

Store reports shoplifter took items worth

$1,204

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police investigated a report of shoplifting at a North Point Mall lingerie store Nov. 21.

A store supervisor told officers a man placed 12 items in a shopping bag and walked out without paying, according to an Alpharetta police report.

The man allegedly stole perfumes.

The items were valued at a total of $1,204.

A video recording of the man at the store was provided to police.

THE PICTURE FRAMER

Milton’s insurer taps former chief justice in wrongful death case

MILTON, Ga. — Milton’s fight against a $35 million wrongful death judgment, upheld in September by the state Court of Appeals, just got a boost.

City Manager Steve Krokoff told Appen Media Dec. 5 that the agency providing Milton’s legal representation has retained the former chief justice of the Georgia Supreme Court.

Harold Melton, who served as chief justice from 2018-21, and his firm Troutman Pepper will now help lead a drive to have the case reviewed by the Georgia Supreme Court.

The city’s representation in the case is through the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency, which is affiliated with the Georgia Municipal Association.

In 2016, Joshua Chang, a senior with a full-ride scholarship to Yale University, died after hitting a concrete planter along Batesville Road in Milton on his way home during Thanksgiving break.

Chang’s parents sued the city for wrongful death, ultimately receiving a Superior Court judgement for $35 million.

The Court of Appeals upheld the ruling.

Some residents, citing the $10,000 in postjudgement interest accruing each day, asked the city and its insurer to stop fighting the case after the verdict came in this fall.

But, it appears the fight isn’t ending soon.

Through amicus briefs, surrounding cities joined Milton to petition the Supreme Court to overturn the decision in November. The cities say the judgement risks putting municipal residents across the state on

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOOL OF LAW/PROVIDED

The Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency is tapping Harold D. Melton, former chief justice of the Georgia Supreme Court, and his firm, Troutman Pepper, to lead its effort to have the state’s highest court overturn an appellate court’s $35 million judgement against the City of Milton.

the hook if a person leaves the road, hits an object and is killed or seriously injured.

Melton also serves as the Sanders Scholar in Political Leadership at the University of Georgia’s School of Law and teaches a seminar there. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and his law degree from UGA.

Krokoff said Troutman Pepper attorneys are

skilled in presenting complex legal arguments and have a track record of success in appellate litigation, particularly in high-stakes and precedent-setting cases.

“Their legal sophistication makes them a valuable asset in advocating before the state's highest court,” Krokoff said. “Yesterday, former Chief Justice Melton filed a petition … with the Georgia Supreme Court, formally requesting the court to review the case.”

He said a decision on whether the court will hear the case is typically expected within 90 to 120 days.

During a Nov. 18 City Council meeting, Milton Families First President Adam Hollingsworth raised questions about the city’s allowing Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency (GIRMA) to represent them in the wrongful death lawsuit.

“The decisions made — from selecting underqualified legal counsel to rejecting reasonable settlement offers — have left the City of Milton and its citizens bearing an unconscionable financial burden,” Hollingworth wrote. “This case not only raises serious doubts about GIRMA’s ability to serve its members effectively but also highlights systemic issues that jeopardize public trust.”

The development is likely to raise spirits throughout Milton, though.

“The City of Milton is pleased that GIRMA has taken the steps to retain former Justice Melton and Troutman Pepper,” Krokoff said. “The talent that he and his firm bring will result in Milton putting its absolute best case before the Georgia Supreme Court to hopefully persuade [it] to take the case and weigh in on a judgment that has monumental adverse consequences for cities throughout Georgia.”

County to consolidate services at site on North Point Parkway

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Fulton County will turn a former COVID-19 testing site off North Point Parkway in Alpharetta into a new Health & Human Services Center.

The plan, approved by the County Commission Nov. 20, has been in the works for a couple years and is funded through an $11 million loan from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia.

Before Thanksgiving, commissioners approved a $15.4 million construction contract with Beck PMI for renovation of the building at 4700 North Point Parkway, which will be called the North Fulton Health & Human Services Center.

There were no comments or discussion at the Nov. 20 meeting.

The contract requires completion within 300 days.

A look at 4700 North Point Parkway shows the future site of the North Fulton Health & Human Services Center. Fulton County Commissioners approved a $15.4 million construction contract Nov. 20 for renovation of the facility to serve as a one-stop shop for multiple health and related services.

Fulton County bought the building in 2019 and used it as the main site for COVID-19 testing, vaccination and emergency supplies during the pandemic.

Jim Gaines, public affairs manager with Fulton County, said the building sits on nearly 24 acres, leaving plenty of room for expansion even when the 108,000-square-foot building is full.

Gaines said the existing plan will use

about two-thirds of the space, offering services from the county and some partner agencies, as well as expanding those for seniors.

The decision allows the county to consolidate its services within several older offices in North Fulton County into

one site.

County staff said the new center is expected to house the state Department of Public Health’s various training and community support programs, like ones for traveling nurses and dentistry, as well as its Vital Records Office. It will also include behavioral health services for youths, adults and those with developmental disabilities; the Department of Real Estate and Asset Management; the Georgia Emergency Management Agency; DUI services through the county’s Superior Court; and programming for seniors.

County staff said the goal is to ensure that North Fulton and surrounding populations can access critical services. While some services are curated for seniors, a majority will be available to everyone.

Pamela Roshell, chief operating officer, said the county will also do a feasibility study to find the best site for a similar center in South Fulton. Staff said a 40-acre site near Stonewall Tell Road is one possibility, but no decision has been made.

GOOGLE EARTH

10 Caesar salads worth trying in north metro

NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Caesar salads are a beloved and ever-present on restaurant menus. They come from a variety of backgrounds, from Italian to American to French.

Here’s 10 of the best in Appen Media Group’s coverage area, in no particular order.

1. Trattoria one 41 — 9810 Medlock Bridge Road A, Johns Creek

Designed as an appetizer, this garlicky, delicious Caesar packs enough flavor for an entrée. Trattoria one 41’s pastas are great, but Caesar salad lovers may begin flocking to Johns Creek for the crunchy, creamy

scrumptiousness. My only suggested improvement would be increasing the size.

2. Colletta — 900 Third St., Alpharetta (Avalon)

Colletta in Avalon shines as one of the best Italian restaurants in Alpharetta, and its Caesar salad exceeds expectations as much as the great service. Colletta’s croutons and cheese are exquisite, leveling up already high-quality lettuce and dressing. Their crispy potatoes make an excellent side.

3. Salt Factory — 102 S. Main St., Alpharetta, Canton Street in Roswell

Anyone looking for a salad that’s not good but great need not look

Christmas at Midway Midway

December 24th

Christmas Eve

3:00 p.m. Children’s Pop-up Christmas Pageant

This family-friendly service invites children to help tell the story of the very first Christmas! Wear a costume or borrow one from the church.

5:00 p.m. Modern – Sanctuary

7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m. Traditional – Chapel

Join us for one of these candlelight and communion services as we celebrate the birth of Christ.

5025 Atlanta Hwy. | Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.475.5230 | www.MidwayUMC.org

further than the Salt Factory. With several locations in the area, Salt Factory makes an incredible meal very accessible. The dressing is delicious, with perfectly seasoned chicken that makes it hard to resist the upcharge.

4. North Italia — 4600 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE, Dunwoody

North Italia delivers an elevated presentation for their take on a classic dish, backing up the look in the taste department. Their Caesar features breadcrumbs as an alternative to croutons, an appreciated touch that removes the awkwardness of getting a crouton on your fork.

5. Crust — 131 S. Main St., Alpharetta

If you want a delicious but classic Caesar, Crust is the place to go. Every aspect is exquisite, from the lettuce to the high-quality cheese to the dressing and the croutons. Each bite holds the perfect amount of tang to satisfy that Caesar craving. Crust’s garlic knots are phenomenal, too.

6. Marlow’s Tavern — 1317 Dunwoody Village Parkway, Dunwoody

A slightly unique take on a Caesar with mixed romaine lettuce and kale for a base. Highly suggest adding blackened chicken to add a kick that compliments the tang of the dressing. With so many locations, a great Caesar is rarely more than a 20-minute drive away in metro Atlanta.

7. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill — 2665 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta

A Caesar for the table — fair warning, don’t order as your appetizer with an entrée later unless you plan on taking it home: this salad could feed a whole family. The lettuce and cheese are high-quality, the dressing is delicious, Firebirds’ Caesar has every element for a great salad.

8. Salata — 2560 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta

When a business’s whole shtick is salads, the Caesar has to pack a punch. Salata’s Caesar lives up to the hype, a perfectly tangy and garlicky dressing with a healthy scoop of chicken. The more casual atmosphere is great for a lunch on the go or a quick sit-down.

9. Campania — 12635 Crabapple Road, Milton

Campania delivers a classic Caesar, with high-quality lettuce and a lighter dressing. An Italian take on a Caesar is not complete without first-rate parmesan, and Campania meets the mark on that aspect. Their Rosetta bread is a great complement to the meal.

10. La Madeleine — Perimeter Center

Last but not least, for a more onthe-go feel that deposits you in Paris in the France-themed restaurant, visit La Madeleine and try their Caesar. Watch as the salad is made in front of you and enjoy the meal to-go or sit down. Highquality ingredients meet great service here.

Make plans to check out December author events

Thursday, Dec. 12, Nancy Naigle and Tracy Solheim. The USA Today bestselling authors will detail five of Naigle’s books that have been adapted into Hallmark movies. Light refreshments will be served. Free. 6:30 p.m. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-2329331. read-it-again.com

Saturday, Dec. 15, Boozy Book Fair and Messiah at the Pub: A Singalong, at Distillery of Modern Art. Join the Johns Creek Chorale for a singalong of Handel’s “Messiah” and shop a selection of books curated by Read It Again Bookstore. Free. 4 p.m. Distillery of Modern Art, 2197 Irvindale Way, Chamblee, 30341. 404-482-2663. readit-again.com

Friday, Dec. 20, Alex White’s book and video game launch. The award-winning sci-fi author will discuss his newest title and VR game. Free. 7 p.m. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Pkwy., Suite 314, Suwanee. 770232-9331. read-it-again.com

Saturday, Dec. 21, Terri Parlato release party for “Watch Your Back.” Free. Noon. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-2329331. read-it-again.com

Monday, Dec. 30, teen author Isabella Gerborg with her debut novel, “Discover.” Free. 6:30 p.m. Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming. forsythpl.org/ event/11919748

To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

MARTA begins plans to integrate service with express lanes

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — MARTA is in the midst of studying how to integrate its transit into the elevated express lanes planned for the northern arc of I-285.

About a dozen Central Perimeter residents gathered at the Hampton Inn in Sandy Springs Dec. 5 to offer ideas on how transit can capitalize on GDOT’s investment by enhancing regional connectivity and providing access.

MARTA is focusing on some way to implement bus rapid transit on the I-285 Express Lanes.

MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood said the study is a pivotal step to address the region’s growing need for expanded and reliable transportation services.

“By tapping into the funded Express Lanes infrastructure investments already planned for I-285, we have an opportunity to provide efficient transit solutions that benefit residents and commuters alike,” she said.

By 2050, MARTA officials say the study area population is expected to grow 42 percent, with a similar jump in job growth over the same period.

Traffic congestion has long been and continues to plague Metro Atlanta.

GDOT’s current plan calls for constructing elevated express lanes — 50 to 60 feet above the existing generalpurpose lanes. The two express lanes, running in each direction, may extend across the entire northern half of I-285 and connect into I-20.

With GDOT still searching for a private-sector finan-

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Tim Sorenson, vice president of transit and urban mobility at engineering firm CDM Smith, discusses transit options along the proposed I-285 express lanes with two attendees of the Dec. 5 public input session at the Hampon Inn off Hammond Drive. The purpose of the meetings is to get feedback and refine plans as the express lanes project moves forward.

cier, changing the scope of the express lanes remains a possibility.

The scope of the MARTA study includes the entirety of the I-285 Express Lanes project and looks to expand access using the elevated lanes between the H.E. Holmes station in west Atlanta and the Indian Creek station in unincorporated DeKalb County.

The stations are the eastern and western termini of MARTA’s rapid transit Blue Line. Because MARTA’s rail lines provide solid east-west and north-south public transportation, the transit study is focused on getting

MARTA users to other places via bus rapid transit. Natavis Eric Harris, project manager with MARTA, said his team is using models from the Federal Transit Administration to predict future demand for transit use. Harris said he’s focused on getting MARTA service where it needs to be.

Regional transit connections – or bus stops – proposed along the northern arc of I-285 include Indian Creek, Doraville, Perimeter Center, Cumberland and H.E. Holmes, with potential other locations scattered across the east and west.

Most of the predicted bus transit involves people on the west and east sides of I-285 heading north to Central Perimeter.

MARTA Director of Federal Corridors & Hubs Marcus Arnold said construction of the project is contingent on the progress and timing of GDOT’s I-285 Express Lanes project. Without a private-sector partner, there’s no predicting when funding will be secured for MARTA’s transit.

That’s not stopping MARTA from planning potential stations along the bus corridor.

Tim Sorenson, vice president of transit and urban mobility at engineering firm CDM Smith, took attendees through access approaches at major stops like Perimeter Center.

Factors to be considered include walk time, direct connections to amenities and ride time.

With the roar of motorists along Ga. 400 at the Hampton Inn off Hammond Drive, the need for transportation diversification in north Metro Atlanta was apparent.

For those unable to attend in person, meeting materials can be viewed at www.i285expresslanestransit.com.

Glass is moving, right, and it keeps you present because you have to move with it.
LANCE MCRORIE, co-owner, FlameTree Glass, Inc.

8 | Milton Herald | December 12, 2024

FlameTree Glass teaches craft with care

Key element of class is to overcome fear

ROSWELL, Ga. — Maureen Buckley McRorie and her husband Lance McRorie take great care in their craft and dedicate much of their business to sharing it with others.

They specialize in glass blowing at the torch, rather than the older technique of the furnace, and have built their lives around it for more than two decades.

The McRories’ shop FlameTree Glass, Inc. off Warsaw Road in Roswell is part gallery and part workshop space. They also sell glass supplies, but on a small scale, for mostly locals. Competition became nearly impossible when glass supply warehouses, equipped with forklifts, entered the scene.

Maureen said glass blowing is a meditative and therapeutic process. Working with a hot flame requires a certain level of attention.

“It puts you in the moment, and you just start melting, and then two hours have gone by like that,” she said, snapping her fingers. “So that's why people get real addicted to it.”

Lance called the process a “Zen space,” so long as everything is going to plan.

“Glass is moving, right, and it keeps you present because you have to move with it,” he said. “And, when you're in that state, time is not linear anymore. All the problems of the world are gone. You're relaxed, and you're immersed in this.”

They took up the craft in 1999.

They made a couple of moves since then, from Orlando, Florida, to a shopping center off South Atlanta Street. Maureen and Lance found the current location in 2017, opening two years later but closed soon afterward when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Impact of pandemic

“They're just at such a high level,” he said. “Every time they come back in front of me, I feel like an infant.”

Meanwhile, he said Maureen has only taken two to three official classes but manages to pick up the skill near-instantly.

Maureen was into beading, buying her supplies from Beads by Design in Marietta, and found out she could make her own. So, she and Lance signed up for a beadclass, and from there, their beads started selling, and people began asking to take classes.

“We were like, ‘No way,’” Maureen said.

The business hasn’t totally recovered from the pandemic, with only a couple of people stopping by that day. Maureen and Lance also used to hold master classes, but student interest has waned.

“The whole industry after COVID has just really gone down,” Maureen said.

The signatures of all the expert glass craftspeople who led master classes at FlameTree are spread out along the metal hood over the studio table.

Lance said he has always participated in the master classes held at the shop, working to build his skill.

She loves sculpting and works mostly in soft glass, as it’s less fussy and stubborn than hard glass, which has a slower heating process and quicker cooling process, forcing you to work, or blow, fast.

Intricate lamps are one of her specialties, building a metal armature frame then attaching glass, made on the wire.

“A lot of this is recycled out of the trash bucket,” she said.

Some can be seen on the walls in the gift shop,

See GLASS, Page 9

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA
FlameTree Glass owners Maureen Buckley McRorie and husband Lance McRorie, specialize in glass blowing at the torch. They sell finished pieces, do commissions within any budget, and offer a variety of classes at all levels.

Glass:

Continued from Page 8

along with her watercolor paintings and fabric work, also an abundance of glass jewelry pieces. There’s finished pieces, but they offer commissioned work for any budget.

Hard glass is a medium Lance uses often because of his knack for goblets, forging whimsical stems of different animals and other shapes. Dozens are on display in the shop.

He takes influence from Asian culture, at one point flipping through a book showcasing Chinese folk art. Loren Stump, a master, captivated Lance with his own interest and experiences teaching in Japan.

Joy in teaching

While business isn’t what it used to be, they do have a busy schedule this time of year, teaching students how to blow their own holiday decorations.

In the studio downstairs, Lance was preparing icicles at his workstation, an organized mess of tools in all shapes and sizes and with different uses at the end of a long table where students approach a series of small torches. Kilns of all sizes are tucked in different places.

Icicle-making was the main event the next day.

Lance demonstrated how traditional ball ornaments are made, another class, focusing the flame on a hard glass stem that he prepared in advance. After a few minutes of even rotations in the flame, the bulbous end softened and was malleable enough to blow out into the spherical shape often seen on Christmas trees.

The stem is then cut, leaving an opening to be topped with a metal ornament cap.

Lance said students have to start with the basics and foundation — there’s a lot to it. He and Maureen mapped out the different styles of glass making on

Lance McRorie, co-owner of FlameTree Glass, Inc., prepares an icicle project for students the following day.

For more information about FlameTree Glass, Inc., visit https:// flametreeglass.com.

the studio chalkboard, accompanied by a history lesson in the craft.

Lance said it’s a difficult medium to teach.

“Well, most people don’t get it,” Maureen added. “...They're terrified … but then they realize, if you just listen and follow safety instructions, it's fine … As seasoned veterans, we still have to pay attention because we can still get hurt.”

Maureen and Lance, collectively, have a lot of cuts and burns.

“Sometimes you get a cut, and then you cauterize it with the burn on top,” she said, laughing.

Maureen said she enjoys getting students over the fear but also frustration, giving them a feeling of accomplishment.

“They get into that space, and it's healing,” Lance added. “Because in this frenetic world that we live in, right — fast, frenetic, flashing pictures on an iPad, cars driving — they learn how to be calm…”

PHOTOS BY: AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA
Maureen Buckley McRorie, co-owner of FlameTree Glass, Inc., showcases glass fish she made, standing next to her workstation in the studio.

Oyster bar owner wants to bring seaside to downtown Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Rob Schryver wants to bring the seashore to Alpharetta.

Oyster bars and seafood houses were always some of Schryver’s favorite experiences while vacationing in Florida. The Alpharetta resident said the bounty of fresh seafood he enjoyed during visits to the shore have inspired him to replicate the experience.

“We got thinking it would be nice to find a place like this up here without having to travel down to Florida to get it,” he said.

Schryver plans to open a Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar at 9 S. Main St. in January in the heart of Alpharetta’s downtown at a space once occupied by South Main Kitchen. The location will be one of 18 franchise restaurants with locations in Cumming, North and South Carolina, Florida, Maryland and Illinois.

Fresh seafood, particularly raw oysters, will be at the heart of the restaurant’s menu, Schryver said. He plans on sourcing oysters from East Coast waters, such as Chesapeake,

Raw oysters are a centerpiece of Shuckin’ Shack’s menu, but the restaurant also will offer fresh fish, shrimp, crab and other seafood.

Georgia and Canada and others from the Gulf and West Coast.

Schryver said he would love to feature a rotating selection of four to six seasonal oysters on top of a couple house varieties.

There’s something special about a raw oyster, although the restaurant will offer plenty of cooked variations like Oysters Rockefeller, he said.

Schryver’s lifelong love for the

delicacy began as a child when his father used to cook them up.

“I’ve been eating them since I was 5 years old,” he said. “I’ve never had a bad one.”

On top of oysters, the Shuckin’ Shack will offer a full seafood menu, including clams, crab legs, mussels, peel and eat and fried shrimp, Alfredo, scampi, lobster rolls, fresh fish, crab cakes and more.

“Anything on the coast, you’ll find here,” Schryver said.

With a full-service bar, capacity for about 100 diners and plenty of outdoor seating, Schryer said the restaurant will be an ideal spot for individual dining and large and small gatherings like parties, meet-ups and date nights.

Low lighting and beach decor like surfboards, fishing nets, crab traps and beach vacation photos will

create an ambience that transports customers to the seashore. A passthrough entrance will allow easy access to the street and an open, outdoorsy vibe during nice weather.

With many entrees priced in the $15-$20 range, Shuckin’ Shack’s menu will balance affordability and quality, he said.

Schryver said he envisions an ideal experience would be on a night when the restaurant is hosting live music.

A group of friends might start off with a dozen raw oysters with a beer before veering off into bourbon or mixed drinks. After drinks, the group might settle in for more filling entrees of fresh fish.

Schryver said his goal is for patrons to think, “If I didn’t know better, I’d have said we were down in the Gulf right now.”

PHOTOS BY: SHUCKIN’ SHACK/PROVIDED
Shuckin’ Shack aims to provide a seashore experience inland with beach decor and fresh seafood daily. The restaurant chain already has more than a dozen locations in the U.S.
Alpharetta-Milton
Buckhead

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the

BEST

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

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

Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 22 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.

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

Great news in Pediatric Melanoma

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

Isn’t it wonderful to hear that you are making a difference? Well, you are! All that hard work that you put in with children or grandchildren getting them to protect themselves from the Sun and wear sunscreen is making a difference!

A recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) of more than 76,000 pediatric melanomas confirmed a decline in melanoma incidence over the last ten years in children ages five and older. That decrease in melanoma is likely due to the measures you and your family members have taken during those years and during the prior ten to fifteen years when you worked so hard to protect them from the Sun. And it is hard work. I have personally braved and endured myself. We all know what it’s like: The child in question seems to morph into a wet fish wriggling out of your grasp. Your slippery sunscreen hands don’t make it any easier! The rascal gets free, and you chase him or her down. Your drink gets knocked over. Sand gets on chairs, in bags and in other places you don’t want sand to get. It’s a task somewhere between roping a calf and getting a cat to take a bath. Grueling, grasping, groaning, finally it’s complete! The child may go and play. And in an hour and a half, you get to repeat the process all over again!

We know sun safety isn’t easy. What dermatologists ask of parents and grandparents is not a simple task. Is it really all worth it?

Yes! The results are in, and they are inspiring. This very encouraging study in the JAAD strongly suggests that all our hard work is paying off.

For children ages 10-14, there was a greater than 30% drop in melanoma between 2002 and 2020.

For children ages 5-9, there was a greater than 60% drop in melanoma between 2014 and 2020.

Interestingly, a small increase in pediatric melanoma cases for children ages four and younger supports that what we are doing is making a difference. Older children who develop melanoma are much

more likely to have developed skin cancer from sunburns and sun exposure. Babies and children under 4 years old who develop melanoma are NOT likely to have developed melanoma from sun exposure. (But they still need to be protected from the Sun). Instead, genetics, a chance unlucky mutation or non-sun related environmental factors are more likely to be responsible for melanoma in the extremely young. They simply haven’t had much time to be damaged by the Sun. The fact that melanoma in those ages four and under slightly increased but melanoma in those five and older dramatically decreased makes the claim even more credible that our efforts at sun protection are working.

Good news in pediatric melanoma is likely great news for these individuals’ entire lives. Our bodies have proteins called “mismatch repair enzymes” whose job it is to fix DNA that has been damaged by ultraviolet rays from the Sun. Unfortunately, these enzymes don’t do a perfect job, and many mutations in our DNA are with us for life. Our entire lives, these mutations increase the chance that we develop skin cancer. Dermatologists have tools including prescription creams and in office treatments that kill pre-cancers and reduce one’s sun damage, but some of the Sun damage from childhood and adulthood is always with us. The fact that pediatric melanoma has plummeted in the last ten years gives us great hope that these same individuals will develop far fewer cancers as adults as well.

When you protect your loved one as a child, you are likely helping protect him or her for life.

The next time you wonder, “is it worth it?...Should I really use that sunscreen, that UPF 50 sun shirt or take on the herculean task of wrangling a kiddo channeling his or her inner feral cat?,” the answer is YES. You are making a difference. And we only see these wonderful results at the population level in a published study because of many, many daily actions at the individual level – through the genuine care and love of many, many parents and grandparents who love their family and showed it through their actions. Keep up the great work!

Dr. Brent Taylor
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

I’m dreaming of a White Christmas…

“Just like the ones I used to know.” I love the sound of Bing Crosby singing White Christmas. It’s getting colder and I’m getting excited for the holidays this year. I look forward to all of it. The lights, the decorations, the cookies, the food, the drinks, the special times with those you love. I could go on and on.

During the holidays, everyone is happy and smiling and thankful. An important part of that is a healthy, white smile. Your dentist can help you get a healthy, white smile for the holidays. Let’s talk about the best ways to get your smile as white as possible.

The first step is making sure that your teeth are clean. And I do mean professionally cleaned. Over time, your teeth build up surface stains and tartar. This needs to be removed with the special instruments that your dental hygienist uses. Afterwards, your gums will be healthier, and you won’t have anything in the way of getting your teeth as white as possible. You can’t whiten tartar and stains. You must remove them. You can’t get the white teeth you want with this stuff in the way.

There are three ways to whiten your teeth: Whitening strips, Whitening trays, and Professional Whitening. Whitening strips are the quickest, easiest way to whiten your teeth. These are plastic strips with whitening gel on them. After cleaning your teeth, you place the whitening strips on your front teeth and adapt it as well as possible to your teeth. Whitening trays are custom trays for placing the whitening gel precisely

on your teeth. Your dentist can make these for you and provide you with strong, prescription strength whiten gel for you to whiten your teeth with a series of home treatments. The best and fastest way to whiten your teeth is Professional Whitening at a dental office. In about an hour, your dentist can place a protective barrier on your gums and place powerful whitening gel on your teeth to get your teeth super white. People love this option because your teeth are as white as they can get in about an hour and you do not have to do multiple treatments at home.

Everyone has a biologic limit to how white they can get their teeth with these whitening procedures. Porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding can get your

smile even whiter and more perfect. Modern dentistry gives you so many options to improve your smile with the advances in materials and technology. Tooth Whitening removes years of stain and discoloration. Cosmetic recontouring is a simple process of re-shaping your teeth to make them look more attractive, healthier, and straighter. Clear, nearly Invisible Aligners can straighten your teeth quickly and easily without metal braces. Cosmetic Bonding repairs chips and cracks to make your teeth look beautiful, natural, and vibrant again. Porcelain Veneers is like adding new enamel to your teeth to make them whiter, straighter, and change the shape to the perfect length and proportions.

“May your days be merry and bright. And may all your Christmases be white.”

Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. You will realize immediate results with non-invasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile enhancing options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. Dr. Bradley Hepler has spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that they provide each patient with the perfect solution to their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our great pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.

ADOBE STOCK

Kickstart your new year’s resolution with GLP-1s

New Year’s resolutions often bring a sense of renewal and the motivation to tackle personal goals—many of which revolve around achieving healthier lifestyles and weight loss. But sticking to these resolutions, especially when it comes to shedding extra pounds, can be challenging. That’s where GLP-1 receptor agonists (commonly referred to as GLP-1s) come in. These innovative medications can help you kickstart your weight loss endeavors and set you up for long-term success. If weight loss is part of your New Year’s resolution, here’s everything you need to know about integrating GLP1s into your plan.

What are GLP-1s?

GLP-1s, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are medications originally designed to help individuals with Type 2 diabetes regulate blood sugar. But one of their most popular and impactful side effects is weight loss. They work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone in the body, which slows digestion, reduces appetite, and promotes feelings of fullness. For individuals struggling to gain control over their eating habits and achieve sustainable weight loss, GLP-1s can be a game changer.

Why GLP-1s are perfect for your new year’s goals

Starting a weight loss routine can feel overwhelming, especially as motivation tends to wane mid-year. Incorporating GLP-1s into your strategy

can help maintain that energy and commitment beyond the initial enthusiasm. Here’s why they’re particularly effective this time of year:

• Kickstart momentum. For many, seeing early progress can be a powerful motivator. GLP-1s help suppress appetite and reduce calorie intake, allowing you to see results more quickly than traditional dieting alone.

• Support healthy habits. GLP-1s work best when combined with a nutritious diet and regular exercise. They complement healthier habits by making portion control easier and reducing cravings, enabling you to stick to your resolutions with greater ease.

• Sustain long-term results. Beyond the initial boost, GLP-1s encourage sustainable changes by helping regulate hunger, preventing overeating, and supporting a more balanced approach to food.

This New Year, take control of your weight loss goals with the help of GLP-1s. Whether you’re making your first attempt or looking for a fresh start after past setbacks, these medications can provide the support you need to achieve meaningful and lasting results.

Consult with a trusted healthcare provider to determine if this option makes sense for your individual needs. With GLP-1s on your side, 2025 could be the year you not only kickstart your resolution—but maintain it for years to come. For more information, please call 470-359-4815.

with 3-month GLP-1 package
PEXELS

A traditional Japanese custom and its reflections in modern dentistry

to you by -

Ohaguro, the practice of blackening one’s teeth, holds a significant place in Japanese cultural history. Historically, ohaguro was a symbol of beauty, status, and marital eligibility. While the tradition has faded over time, its impact is still visible in various cultural remnants and even resonates in modern dentistry. This article explores the roots of ohaguro and delves into its connection with contemporary dental practices.

Ohaguro dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), where it was initially practiced by the aristocracy and later adopted by commoners. The custom involved blackening the teeth using a solution made from iron filings and vinegar, resulting in a distinctive lacquered appearance. Ohaguro was particularly prevalent among married women, symbolizing their commitment and marital status.

As Japan modernized during the Meiji era (1868-1912), ohaguro gradually lost its significance. Influences from the Western world, changes in fashion, and evolving societal norms contributed to the decline of this centuries-old tradition. By the end of the Meiji era, ohaguro was largely abandoned, although some elderly individuals continued the practice well into the 20th century.

Ohaguro’s Influence on Modern Dentistry:

While ohaguro itself may be a relic of the past, its impact on modern dentistry is noteworthy. The quest for aesthetically pleasing smiles has always been a constant, and this is where the historical custom finds resonance in contemporary dental practices.

1. Teeth Whitening Technologies:

The desire for whiter teeth in modern society is the antithesis of ohaguro. Teeth whitening procedures, ranging from over-the-counter products to professional treatments offered by dentists, reflect society’s current beauty standards. These treatments use safe and effective methods to remove stains and discoloration, enhancing the natural whiteness of teeth.

2. Orthodontics and Cosmetic Dentistry: Ohaguro was not only about color but also about the shape and arrangement of teeth. In modern dentistry, orthodontic treatments, such as braces and clear aligners, address issues related to tooth alignment and structure. Cosmetic dentistry procedures, like veneers, bonding, and contouring,

allow individuals to achieve the perfect smile they desire.

3. Dental Implants and Prosthetics: For those who have lost teeth due to various reasons, dental implants and prosthetics provide functional and aesthetic solutions. These technologies mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, helping individuals regain confidence in their smiles.

Ohaguro may be a thing of the past, but its influence on modern dentistry is undeniable. From a symbol of status and beauty to a relic of history, ohaguro has evolved, leaving a lasting impression on Japan’s cultural landscape. Today, as advancements in dentistry continue to flourish, individuals have a range of options to achieve healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smiles— embracing a new era that values the preservation and enhancement of natural dental beauty.

Roswell Dental Care is nominated to win “BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta by Appen Newspaper for the 8th year. We’ve been serving patients in the area for over 40 years.

As your cosmetic dentists, Drs. Hood, Remaley, and Urvi give your comfort and trust top priority. We assure you feel confident in any dental solution before beginning treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE conscious sedation, including nitrous oxide. Rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding. Take the first step in feeling great about your smile. Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY smile makeover consultation by calling 770-998-6736.

• Crowns and Bridges in a few days

• Porcelain Veneers

• Tooth Colored Composite Fillings

• Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity

• Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients

• Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients

• Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation)

• Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments

• Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis

• Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos

• Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions!

• Electronic Records

• Accept and File

• Implants

• Root Canals

• Extractions

• Spa-like Relaxing Atmosphere

• Custom Baked Cookies Daily

• FREE Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation

• Facial Aesthetic Enhancements including BOTOX and Dermal Fillers

Dr. David Remaley
Dr. Destinee Hood
PROVIDED

Comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical care

Brought to you by - Dr. Arthur Grigorian, neurosurgeon at Wellstar

The neurosurgery program at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center has grown significantly in recent years, adding three neurosurgeons and one interventional neurologist, as well as three physician assistants and one nurse practitioner over the past six years. We’ve been able to build one of the most comprehensive neuro care programs in the Atlanta area. Wellstar North Fulton is also a Level II Trauma Center and Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center—the highest level of stroke treatment recognized.

Our team treats the most complex pathologies of the spine, including trauma and degenerative disease, with expert care. Physicians can address concerns including herniated discs, stenosis, radiculopathy and other chronic or acute problems of the spine.

The neurosurgeons, neurocritical care physicians and neurologists at Wellstar North Fulton work together to perform the most complex neuro care procedures, including aneurysm clipping and coiling, embolizations and resections of arteriovenous malformations of the brain and spine, surgical bypasses for patients with a chronic cerebral ischemia or moyamoya disease, and treatment of carotid artery diseases. Our hybrid neurovascular suite is equipped with innovative biplane technology. This allows neurosurgeons to view

highly detailed images of brain vessels, so we can customize treatments for each patient in real-time.

Before we expanded our neurological care at Wellstar North Fulton, patients had to travel either to different healthcare facilities or outside the state to receive this kind of care.

In addition, Wellstar North Fulton opened a state-of-the-art oncology center last year. The cancer center houses CyberKnife technology and opens a new horizon for treatment of complex oncological problems, including tumors of the brain or spinal cord.

To learn more about care at Wellstar North Fulton, visit wellstar.org/northfulton. Call (770) 664-9600 to schedule an appointment with a neurosurgeon in Roswell.

How to strengthen your relationship during the holidays

The holidays bring all the joyful chaos: crowded schedules, too much food, and family members giving unsolicited advice. With all this added pressure, it’s easy to feel like you and your partner are more “survival teammates” than “seasoned soulmates.” But here’s the good news—these holiday challenges can be opportunities to grow closer, connect, and yes, even have some fun together. Here are four practical ways to help strengthen your relationship this holiday season.

1. Make communication a (quick and daily) habit

It’s the season of merry madness, and in the rush, it’s easy to let communication slip. A few minutes to connect each day can make a huge difference. Think of this as your “holiday huddle”—a quick check-in where you both take turns sharing a high and a low from the day. Keep it light, and maybe even trade a funny story from the day. One great question I have couples I work with ask is, “What is one thing I’ve said or done recently that let you know I love you (or care about you, support you, etc.)?” Instead of waiting for holiday stress to hit the boiling point, a quick check-in each day helps keep each other in the loop and on the same team. It’s like a secret weapon to dodge any “You never told me about that!” drama.

2. Have each other’s back with family boundaries

Family gatherings during the holidays bring all the love, and often, all the opinions. Your partner might want to spend hours with family; you might need more breaks. Or maybe you have to make an appearance at three different houses on the same day. Discuss ahead of time what’s realistic and what isn’t.

I also recommend couples define what is a core need for each person, and then figure out how to compromise on the small stuff while supporting each other’s core need. Doing so may mean supporting each other’s “hard limits.” If Aunt Susan wants to know why you’re not married yet (or if you’re going to have kids, or what you really think about the election), some good-natured tag-teaming and interference running that is planned out ahead of time can work wonders.

3. Keep your expectations low but your spirits high

Even at the “most wonderful time of year,” things go wrong. It’s practically tradition. Events run late, flights get delayed, and maybe the turkey burns. Embrace a sense of humor, roll with the punches, and focus on what actually matters. Instead of stressing over and judging every detail, mindfully commit

to seeing each moment for what it is. If something doesn’t go to plan, try to laugh about it. A year from now, will it really matter, or will you have a great story to tell? A sense of humor and a touch of gratitude can take the edge off holiday frustrations and keep your spirits high, even when the lights are a little too bright and the family a little too loud.

4. Make some “us time” nonnegotiable

Finally, in all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to let quality time slip. Make it a rule to steal away at least a little time, just the two of you—even if it’s just a 15-minute walk or a coffee date away from the action. It’s your chance to reconnect, decompress, and remind each other why you’re partners in the first place. These little check-ins can be as simple as a quiet breakfast together or even a quick getaway to a favorite

spot nearby. Whatever it is, make it about unwinding and recharging as a couple.

The holidays can bring a lot of cheer—and a fair share of tension. These tips can help you and your significant other turn common challenges into connecting opportunities. Keep the humor going, support each other, and make time to enjoy the season together. Cheers to a season filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few more inside jokes that’ll keep you both smiling into the new year!

If you would like more tools to deal with family stress, or to improve the quality of your relationship, reach out to our amazing admin team at www. summitcounseling.org or 678-893-5300 to schedule a free consultation call with myself or any of our expertly trained clinicians.

PEXELS

Your youthful smile

1. Avoid staining: Avoid tobacco and limit stain causing and enamel eroding acidic foods and drinks.

In order to understand a youthful smile, one needs to know the look of aging teeth. An aging smile can occur as a person gets older, however, they can be influenced by various factors such as oral habits, lifestyle choices, and dental hygiene care…at any age!

Some of the most common features of an aging smile are:

1. Teeth yellowing: Over time, and many coffee/tea, chocolate, wine and tobacco indulgences later, teeth can lose their natural brightness and present more yellow.

2. Tooth wear and tear: Years of grinding, taking out one’s stress on one’s teeth, and misaligned teeth can contribute to excessive and uneven tooth wear and flatter and shorter surfaces.

3. Gum recession: gum recession exposes the darker root surfaces and makes teeth look longer and less esthetic.

4. Tooth loss: missing teeth can impact the appearance of one’s smile and contribute to decreased lip and cheek support and fullness causing facial changes.

5. Teeth crowding: As we age our teeth have a tendency to shift in a forward direction, causing the front teeth to become more crowded.

To maintain a youthful smile here are a few tips:

2. Whitening: professional dental whitening can remove most stains and bring back the luster and brightness to one’s teeth.

3. Resin bonding: Tooth colored fillings do a beautiful job of masking exposed root surfaces and restoring the beautiful shape of the teeth, and thus enhance one’s smile.

4. Tooth replacement: In today’s world, replacing a tooth with implant therapy is the gold standard of dentistry and has long lasting benefits in maintaining the longevity of one’s dentition.

5. Orthodontics: Crooked and misaligned teeth can be corrected using braces or aligners and immediately restore the “wellness” of the smile. It is amazing what a straight smile does to restore youthfulness and confidence! 6. Occlusal guard: A bite guard can shield the teeth from the harmful effects of clenching and grinding.

Maintaining a youthful smile is a lifelong commitment to YOURSELF! Regularly consulting with a good dentist who is committed to your optimal dental health and smile will help ensure personalized advice and appropriate care and methods keep your smile healthy and youthful.

Call us for a free consultation (upon mention of this article) on how we can help you rejuvenate your smile!

Brought to you by – North Fulton Smiles
ISTOCK

Turturro of “The Sopranos”

It may be pitched

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

Denmark junior Bryan Dean, foreground, feeds senior Christian Caldwell in the paint at Alpharetta High School Dec. 3. The Raiders held Caldwell to 10 points, drawing gravity away from the 3-point line and allowing Dean to work outside the arc for a game-high 24 points and six 3-pointers.

Alpharetta withstands close match over Denmark, 67-64

ALPHARETTA, Ga — The Denmark Boys Basketball team fell to 0-8 Dec. 3 after dropping a tight game against Alpharetta, 67-64.

The Raiders were also fighting for their first win, coming off five straight losses.

In their meeting last year, Denmark took home the win in another close game, 80-78, and it looked like Alpharetta would suffer the same fate again until the Raiders posted a strong fourth quarter, outscoring the Danes by 6 points and riding the lead to the end.

Denmark junior Bryan Dean broke through for a game-high six 3-pointers and 24 total points, putting his playmaking to use with two assists as well. Getting his shots to fall took some time, but seeking out quality looks allowed Dean to hit his stride. Denmark senior Cole Gibree contributed 12 points, and sophomore Evan Jones put up 11 points, though it wasn’t enough to take down the Raiders.

Alpharetta sophomore CJ Terry was the Raiders’ biggest contributor, with a double-double – 18 points and 10 rebounds.

“We just wanted to execute tonight,” Terry said. “We’re on a five-game losing streak, but we’re doing okay. We’re a really good team, we’re just young.”

Terry checked out of the game with

more than a double-double, adding four assists, three steals and three blocks.

With four of five Raider seniors out due to injury, Jad Bahhur was the only upperclassman starter playing with mostly sophomores and a few freshmen.

Alpharetta head coach Clay Crump reflected on their start to the season and what went well against Denmark.

“We’re gonna play hard,” he said. “We played four teams that are currently state ranked in our first five games. We’re just trying to keep moving to the next play. They shared the basketball well tonight, if something worked, they went back to it. Good communication on defense, it was great to finally get a win tonight.”

The Raiders played strong defense, collecting five blocks and 14 team steals, and putting the clamps on one of Denmark’s top scorers, senior Christian Caldwell.

Alpharetta’s frontcourt of Terry and freshmen George Bixby and Miles Cromwell (two steals apiece) kept Caldwell quiet offensively, holding him to 10 points, but they couldn’t keep him away from a monstrous rebounding performance. Caldwell ended the game with 13 rebounds.

Jad and Adam Bahhur made up a strong backcourt for the Raiders. Jad contributed eight points, three assists and four steals, while Adam tallied 12 points, five rebounds (four offensive), four deflections and two steals.

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TIP YOUR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY PERSON

Your local community newspaper lands in your driveway every week—rain or shine—bringing you the stories, events, and updates that matter most. But did you know that the person delivering it is often a dedicated individual who goes the extra mile (literally) to ensure you stay connected?

Why Tip?

• Show Appreciation: Your delivery person is out there early in the morning or late at night, navigating all kinds of weather, so you can enjoy the news with your morning coffee.

• Support Local Efforts: While the paper might be free, the effort behind it isn’t. Tipping helps reward those who keep this vital community service running smoothly.

• Brighten Their Day: A small tip can make a big difference in someone’s day, showing gratitude for their hard work and dedication.

If you enjoy receiving your free community newspaper, consider giving a small token of appreciation to the person who brings it to your driveway. A little kindness can go a long way!

Thank you for supporting your local delivery heroes!

How to give your delivery person a tip:

Give via the online portal at appenmedia.com/deliverytip or scan this QR Code

If you prefer, you can also mail a check made out to Appen Media Group and mail it to Newspaper Delivery Tip C/O Appen Media Group, 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009

100% of every dollar you contribute will be spread out evenly between the 24 newspaper delivery people that Appen Media employs. Whether you give $5 or $50, they will greatly appreciate it.

Plans:

Continued from Page 1

a Dec. 16 deadline for formal responses to the state agency’s request for candidate projects.

The conditions are for both bridges to be as narrow as possible, include steel truss barriers instead of concrete ones, and for the roadway width to taper off immediately at the end of the crossing. Also, instead of galvanized steel guardrails, staff wants them painted brown like others throughout the city.

The Clarity Road bridge is slated to be widened from 15 to 24 feet, Leaders said, based on GDOT feedback. The conditional requests from the city are especially important for Clarity Road, which is gravel.

“We can make our support conditional,” Leaders said.

She said GDOT looks at a variety of factors, but whether the bridge is “load posted,” or weight restricted, is a primary consideration. If the city approves of the replacements, Leaders said the bridges would be constructed with no weight limitations.

The state wants to remove weight restrictions on Georgia bridges, but Milton doesn’t want to turn one of its gravel roads into a potential trucking route.

With Mayor Peyton Jamison and City Councilman Doug Hene absent, each elected official gave their input on the recommendation.

Mayor Pro Tem Carol Cookerly, referencing prior negotiations with GDOT, said she wants to understand the city’s leverage when submitting conditions prior to accepting a project.

Before the city approves of state

Football:

Continued from Page 1

teams had played in October ending in a 33-8 loss.

“The NAFL had phenomenal success in the Cobb League which is just awesome for the area,” said Tony Palazzo, blue team assistant coach and board member for the North Atlanta Football League. “We’re really excited for the future. There’s been a lot of inquiries about signing up for next season, so I just hope we’re able to get enough field space. It’s been a transformative year for the league, and we couldn’t exist without the City of Alpharetta and the City of Milton, so we are super grateful for their support.”

Palazzo said that after the game, the coaches told the kids it’s not normal to go undefeated in life or in sports. He said they told the team that they become better when they face adversity.

CITY OF MILTON/PROVIDED

A map shows all bridges in Milton with city-inspected crossings in blue, state-inspected ones in purple and those along state routes in gray. The graphics surrounding the map show examples of bridge or culvert replacements since the city’s incorporation.

funding, submitting conditions to GDOT can help get Milton what it wants. On the other hand, the city has had significant issues with the state agency this year.

City Councilman Phil Cramer advocated for seeing what conditions GDOT can fulfill before approving or denying state funding.

“It’s a significant source of funding from GDOT … make your wish list, and if they can’t meet it, then so be it, we move on,” he said. “We’ve got to keep Milton, Milton; so, if they can’t meet those conditions, we’ll go find the funding elsewhere.”

Ultimately, state funding of the Clarity Road bridge replacement is contingent on it being a single lane after feedback from elected officials.

With elected officials giving the Public Works Department the go-ahead to submit conditions, completion of the

projects is still at least five years away.

During public comment, former City Councilwoman Julie Zahner Bailey said the City of Milton is the result of many important elements coming together, like rural history, natural beauty, land use policies and curated development. She also spoke about bridge replacements last summer.

“While much of this relates to development patterns, both on agricultural and commercial land, it also ties to our infrastructure needs, including roadways, bridges, street lighting and roundabouts,” Bailey said. “I ask that you carefully consider whether they’re need, how they’re funded, and ultimately, how they’re designed with specific conditions required before any funding from GDOT is accepted.”

Bailey also said she expects Public Works Director Leaders to recommend

MALIAH GOLDEN/PROVIDED

Cambridge fifth grader Bentley Henderson evades the tackle to rush for additional yardage for the Bears during the championship game against Walton at Lassiter High School Nov. 23.

The team was already motivated through the playoffs, holding Marietta to 30 yards rushing with a 16-0 shutout.

The future for Cambridge’s class of

not accepting funding for the bridge over Little River on Clarity Road because of its gravel composition.

She said she supports the recommendation and knows many other residents who do as well.

While staff recommended not seeking state funding for the Clarity Road bridge, elected officials want to give it a try.

Bailey’s concerns include increased cross-county traffic, wider roadways encouraging higher speeds and the commercialization of roadway design.

As evidence of Clarity Road’s remoteness, Google did not send one its Street View cars down the entirety of the gravel street, including the Little River bridge.

For conditional funding of a bridge replacement along Hickory Flat Road, Bailey said she’d only support the funding if specific aesthetic conditions are fulfilled.

“To reiterate, if specific detailed conditions cannot be met, the city should not accept any funding for the Hickory Flat Road bridge,” she said. “The look and feel of these bridge replacements, if needed, is as critical as the importance of their safety. Both these bridges represent gateways to Milton.”

The width of the bridge lanes and materials used to construct them is important to residents like Bailey. She wants the priority when considering bridge replacements to be safety, followed by aesthetics if a new structure is deemed necessary.

“Please consider the fact that these funding sources will come with requirements that are inconsistent with the goals, values and characteristics of our more rural roadways, unless funding is conditioned expressly on required aesthetics,” Bailey said.

this season.

The fifth graders also took time during the playoffs to honor their teammate, the late Harrison Van Epps, who was a victim of a June plane crash in New York that also killed his older brother, parents and grandfather. Athletes also donned helmet stickers to honor their friend along with other gestures and events that the team and parents found to honor Harrison, dedicating their championship games to him.

2032 appears cemented for success, with the white team also making their level’s championship and ending the season with praise from coach Delahunt on their efforts and growth

Cambridge fifth graders shared their success with the rest of the North Atlanta Football League. Milton’s fourth grade team also won a championship, beating Cartersville who had two straight undefeated seasons prior to this year. Cambridge’s third grade team made it to their championship game, losing by a touchdown.

The first team from Alpharetta to compete at this level, the fifth graders, exceeded expectations, losing a close game in the semifinals of the playoffs.

Standing in a terrible line with a surprise ending

Something exceptional happened last week, and only a handful of people witnessed it. It is true.

I was third in line for checkout at a local grocery Sunday evening. At the front, two elderly men dressed in flannel shirts and worn coats stood bewildered when their cash cards failed at the register. Each tried his own card with no luck.

Their groceries were already bagged and piled in the shopping cart, in limbo. Frustration filtered through the queue of about five people. We shared the dread that fate had guided us into the wrong line – except for one guy, the one second in line just ahead of me.

He was a young man, about 5 foot 4, with long brown hair swept back past the shoulders of a crisp, black T-shirt. His face was round and smooth, with rosy cheeks and large brown eyes. He stared forward toward the chewing gum display.

He had the most placid face – a Gerber baby, plus 22.

He’d already placed a six-pack of beer and some snacks on the conveyer and stood unfazed by the plight nearby.

The cashier called the manager who informed the flummoxed men that the store’s computer was temporarily unable to process transactions from that particular brand of cash card.

The two men shook their heads in disbelief – not angry, just helpless and embarrassed. They hunched over their wallets, fumbling for a miracle.

Then, as graceful as a gazelle, the young man pulled out his wallet, extracted his bank card, slid sideways and inserted it into the checkout slot. He hit a button, retrieved his card and resumed his position, focused on the chewing gum.

“It’s been paid for,” the cashier told the two men, who were still turned away, probing their wallets.

“What?” one of them said.

“Your groceries have been paid for,” the cashier repeated.

“What happened?” one man asked.

The cashier pointed to the young

man, but the elderly gentleman fixed his eyes on me and expressed his gratitude. I corrected him, pointing to the youth.

“I’ve never seen such a thing,” the old man said, now looking at the boy.

“It was nothing,” the young man said. “Really.”

“We just moved up here, and I have never seen anything…” the old man said.

The youth remained silent, still gazing ahead.

“Well, thank you!” the old man said. “If you give me your address, I’ll gladly pay you.”

Then, turning to the cashier, the old man asked: “How much was it?

“$194.48,” she said.

The elderly pair swiveled toward the young man, but he politely refused their offers to mail reimbursement.

“Really,” he said, facing them a final time, “it was nothing.”

The two men holstered their wallets, collected their groceries and left, still chattering about the experience.

Leaning toward the boy, I said, “I know it would be a bargain for me, but I’ll gladly pay your tab.”

“No, thanks,” he said with a hint of

embarrassment. “It was nothing.”

He looked so at peace that I didn’t want to press it. I looked behind me, and everyone was smiling.

The boy checked out and left.

As I carried my bags to the car, the elderly men were loading their groceries into their truck, still talking.

“I’ve never seen anything like that before,” one said.

Words fail to capture the essence of those three minutes. For that instant, I was removed from the day’s headlines, my schedule for next week, the leaky faucet.

Driving home, words finally did come, but they were not mine.

“If there’s one voice left to say, ‘Welcome’ to a stranger, if there’s one hand outstretched to say ‘Enter’ and ‘Share,’ if there’s one mind remaining to think a thought of warmth and friendship, then there’s a future in which we’ll find more than one hand, more than one voice and more than one mind dedicated to the cause of man’s equality.”

In today’s market, let’s stop ‘Living in the Past’

My inspiration for this week’s article came from Jethro Tull’s 1972 hit, “Living in the Past.”

It seems that we cannot let go of the 2020-2022 timeframe when we had home prices rising at 1020 percent per year in some areas, the “multiple bid” wars, rates below 4 percent, sellers paying nothing toward closing cost and or points, no one was accepting contingency offers, and where houses were only on the market for 10 days or less. Truly the definition of a “sellers” market.

I have been doing this for 40 years now, and that period was truly an anomaly. The facts are as follows. As we enter 2025, mortgage rates have

averaged, over the past 50 years, slightly over 7 percent...funny…we are just below that level now. The average home price in Metro Atlanta has fallen .9 percent on a year-over-year basis. Seller-paid closing costs are on the rise, and some builders are now paying over $25,000 toward cost in some areas. Houses are now on the market in Metro Atlanta for over 55 days, compared to 32 days last year at this time on average. Sellers are beginning to accept “contingency” offers, and home inspectors continue to be one of the biggest “deal killers” out there (will save this topic for another article).

Buyers, however, are still being told it is a very competitive market by agents due to “supply” issues. The data I have just shown would tell a totally different story. With houses being on the market for almost two months and rising, each month the “competitive” market seems to be more of a punchline than fact. The

buyers I am seeing getting new contracts today are buying correctly priced homes with some help, not in all cases but some, from the seller with closing cost, and the sellers are also helping on some inspection issues. Rates are slightly below historical averages, and anyone waiting until rates to get below 5 percent will most likely have a long wait. The housing market has done well, in the past, with the combination of things I am now seeing once again. The difference in a principal and interest payment on a $500,000 loan with a 30-year rate of 7 percent vs. 6 percent is about $330 per month. If the seller is now paying $10,000 toward cost, which they were not doing when we were at 6 percent, you save $10,000 out of pocket and would make your break-even point at the higher rate in almost 2.5 years. If you refinance inside 2.5 years (and I think that will happen) you saved money and got the

home of your dreams for less than you would have when rates were 6 percent. Truly simple math. The 2020-2022 boom for real estate is in the past, and looking for that to happen again could very well be “gone with the wind.” We are back to a more “normal” market, and I would even say we have now switched to a “buyers” market. We simply need to forget what things were like several years ago and embrace the market we are in which, based on my calculations, is not that bad. It is a great time buy a home!

D.C. Aiken is vice president, producing production manager for BankSouth Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.

The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of BankSouth Mortgage or its affiliates.

| Roswell | Milton | Johns Creek

| Dunwoody | Sandy Springs

Local community newspapers – Heralds & Criers – that matter.

OPINION

Sgt. Maj. Paul Hershey – a U.S. Marine, Part 2

In an earlier column I wrote about Sergeant Major Paul Hershey’s Vietnam experiences. In this column I will discuss some of the events in his career after Vietnam.

Following the closure of the American Embassy in late 1974 and his assignment as a trainer of Marines in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Japan and the rescue of the crew of the Mayaguez, Hershey left Vietnam for good in 1976 and went to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendelton in California. There, he again served as an instructor.

In 1978, he was promoted to first sergeant and in 1979 was selected for the Marine Corps Advanced Degree Program (ADP). He obtained a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Southern California.

At end of 1981, Hershey was assigned to train a Marine Corps FAST company (Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team) in Rota, Spain. FAST is a quick reaction force that can be deployed as rapidly as needed.

He returned to Camp Pendelton in 1982 to be sergeant major of Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13), MAG-70 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 (VMFA-121). These elite units provide close air support for ground troops, reconnaissance and logistical support in operations such as the defense of Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War. Hershey recalls joint exercises in Turkey working with multinational forces.

He became the sergeant major of the 5th Marine Regiment at Camp Pendelton and the most decorated regiment in the Marine Corps. Later, he became sergeant major of the 1st Marine Division, the oldest and largest Marine division with 20,000 men and women, also headquartered at Camp Pendelton.

In August 1990, Hershey was assigned to Saudi Arabia for Desert Shield when the U.S. built up forces and defended Saudi Arabia in a short precursor to Desert Storm. Ground operations started in February 1991 after the Army and more Marines arrived. The 1st Marine Division liberated Kuwait City, and the Iraqis set fire to the oil fields.

“You could not see your hand in from of your face due to the air

pollution from the fires,” Hershey says, adding that the Marines were the only ones there and ready to fight at the beginning of Desert Storm because they had prepositioned ships and supplies to last for six months.

At the end of his assignment in the Middle East in May,1991, Hershey was among the armed forces that boarded ships for their return home. On the way, they were diverted to Bangladesh after a powerful tropical cyclone caused a 20-foot storm surge which killed 140,000 people and made up to 10 million people homeless. Under Operation Sea Angel, Marine forces delivered 340 metric tons of food per day and provided 289 medical teams over a period of six weeks.

After returning to Camp Pendleton

Beginning in February 1991, during the latter stages of the Gulf War, Iraqi forces were withdrawing from Kuwait. As they retreated, they set fire to more than 750 Kuwaiti oil fields. The fires lasted for several months. The first fires were extinguished in April. The last well was capped in November 1991. Sgt. Maj. Hershey says the smoke was so thick that you could not see your hand in front of your face.

Canal. As sergeant major of the 5th Marine Regiment at that time, he took part in the successful effort to capture former Panamanian president Manuel Noriega who was wanted by the United States for trafficking in drugs. Noriega later died in prison.

Hershey was in the Marine Corps barracks in Beirut in 1983 when a terrorist bombing killed 220 Marines, 18 sailors and three soldiers.

While in Hawaii, he started a program called Last Look to bring missing MIAs back home to the United States for burial and to provide closure for their families. Last Look continues to this day.

Hershey was reassigned to Camp Smith Hawaii. He was there when the Marines led relief efforts to combat starvation in Somalia under Operation Provide Relief. The Marines served as the command element that supervised the relief efforts.

In Hawaii, Hershey’s final assignment in 1992 was as sergeant major, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific (FMFPAC), the largest maritime landing force in the world, where he was responsible for thousands of Marines for two years. He oversaw Marine operations throughout the Pacific before retiring in 1994.

Among his fascinating postVietnam assignments was a tour at the Fort Sherman Jungle Operations Training Center on the Caribbean side of Panama adjacent to the Panama

In the early 1990s, Hershey spent two months doing drug interdiction on the Mexican border. He led a battalion that operated along the Rio Grande from Presidio, to El Paso, to Arizona.

Hershey has returned to Vietnam four times since the war. He likes to visit museums and is amazed at the beauty of the country and its sense of freedom and commerce. He is going back again in March 2025.

When asked what we have learned from Vietnam and Desert Storm, Hershey said, “Our military is the crux of our freedom. Their strength and dedication to duty are what makes our freedom possible.”

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

SGTMAJ HERSHEY
This portrait of Sergeant Major Paul Hershey was taken in 1992 following his tour in Vietnam when he was serving in Hawaii.
LACE CPL. JANELL ALVAREZ/MARINE CORPS
U.S. Marine Corps recruits march in formation at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendelton, California. Sgt. Maj. Paul Hershey spent approximately nine years off and on at Camp Pendelton during his career with the Marine Corps.
MASTER SGT KIT THOMPSON/PROVIDED

OPINION

100 most influential people #41 - #50

People and things that have impacted our world

Here’s another batch of names in my continuing series exploring the most influential people and topics in history

No. 41 Money

The pursuit of money as the end goal is toxic, and it makes the list. Pure capitalism without intervention can be just as destructive as it can be productive. There needs to be balance. Of course, much of the struggle between the two political parties centers upon the responsibility of society to provide for its citizens – who, how much, why, when. Observation: When the primary common denominator in a system, society, or organization becomes money, it will inevitably fail and implode upon itself. We are way down that road already.

No. 42: The “New Coke” (April 1985 to July 2002)

Loyalty to the “old Coke” – the emotional attachment – was generally given as one of the primary reasons for the failure of “New Coke.” That is, Coke underestimated the brand loyalty to the “old” Coke. Points go to then Coke CEO Roberto Goizueta who had the guts to change the formula for Coke after 99 years of use. You don’t get to be CEO if you are afraid to roll the dice.

No. 43: Brands (see #42)

What do all these products have in common: Crest, Cascade, Comet, Zest, Pampers, Gillette, Tide, Febreze, Vicks, Charmin, Tampax, Head & Shoulders, Old Spice, Bounty, Scope, Pantene, Dawn, Ivory, Gain, Pepto Bismol, Mr. Clean? If you guessed that they are all Procter & Gamble brands you would be correct. Procter & Gamble has historically spent more money “brand advertising” than any other retailer worldwide. Brand advertising/consistency is a massively wise investment.

Ask someone to sit with you and write down the first thing that comes to mind as you read this list to them: “a toothpaste, a dishwasher detergent, a laundry detergent, a brand of toilet paper, a tampon brand, a brand of razor, a shampoo, something for upset stomach, a general-purpose cleaner.” See if 80 percent (or more) of the products they name are these - after decades and decades!

No. 44: “Apocalypse Now”

Francis Fords Coppola’s movie makes the list. It is arguably the “greatest” war movie of all time. What script writers come up with lines like these: “You’re an errand boy sent by grocery clerks to collect a bill”, “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” “Who is the commanding officer here?” Soldier: “Ain’t you?” and my favorite, “Charlie don’t surf.”

The scene, complete with go-go dancers and CCR’s Susie Q blasting in the background – about “75 klicks above the Do Luong bridge” – Coppola’s rendition of Dante’s hell – is just one of many scenes that allowed “Apocalypse Now” to check more boxes than almost all other contemporary movies. Incidentally, while the movie

was inspired by Joseph Conrad’s 1899 novella “Heart of Darkness,” it is safe to say that the bulk of the script for Apocalypse Now was “borrowed” from Michael Herr’s seminal journal/book on Vietnam, “Dispatches.”

No. 45: Cast of “Apocalypse Now”

What can you say. I just want to see more movies with casts composed of acting gods. Coppola’s cast: Marlon Brando, Martin Sheen, Dennis Hopper, Laurence Fishburne, Harrison Ford, Robert Duval, Charlie Sheen and more.

No. 46: The Odds

Online gambling is now legal. It is reported that one online betting platform has

already – one week prior to November 5 –taken in over $100 million in election bets. Another platform reports taking in $2.5 billion so far. From casinos to government lotteries, to now online betting, we seem to be increasingly allowing something that is inherently toxic into our humanity. Surely this won’t end well. All for the almighty buck.

No. 47: Pop-tops

The pull-top can, also called “ring-top,” was invented by Ermal Fraze in the early 1960s and discontinued in 1975 because too many people swallowed them or cut their fingers on them. Someone else figured out how to modify the tab so that it stayed on the can. So, it makes the list because it represents the good ole American “can-do” attitude.

No. 48: Bill Gates

I have mixed emotions adding Bill to the list. He now has some questionable history, it seems. On the other hand, he has channeled much of his wealth toward worthy outreaches, from poverty, health, agriculture, education, and more, to the benefit of millions, if not billions, of people worldwide. Another aspect of his impact on our world has been his efforts, along with Warren Buffet, to encourage other billionaires to commit to using their wealth to better the world at large. And no, Gates has not implanted chips in anyone, nor did he fund, plan, or initiate COVID 19. Come on people.

No. 49: Glenn Campbell, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Barbra Streisand, MJ

Art, including especially music, surely is the counterbalance to the pursuit of money. Yes, money often ends up ruining those who create the art, but that art is the magic that reminds us who we are, grounds us, makes us remember what is important, and tempers so many of our default responses to the world in which we live. Art/music is our healing magic.

No. 50: COVID 19

What is there to say that we don’t already know? It changed everything. It killed millions. It came close to destroying the world’s economy. But how will we deal with the next pandemic? Vaccines work. Distancing helps stop the spread. But the pandemic became the epicenter of disinformation that is still out there. Perhaps the greatest victim of COVID 19 was the public’s trust in the federal government and especially the CDC. That can’t be, or we won’t survive the next pandemic.

Transform your yard with landscape lighting

Gardening enthusiasts know that the true magic of a garden is not confined to the daylight hours. With the right landscape lighting, you can extend the allure of your garden into the night, creating a captivating and inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed even after the sun sets. Whether you’re looking to create a sense of warmth and welcome, accentuate specific features, provide practical illumination or add an enchanting ambiance, landscape lighting can be a game-changer.

I’ve always loved the way landscape lighting can transform outdoor space at night from ordinary to extraordinary. But it wasn’t until recently that I decided to update my own landscape lighting.

I was tired of the old, outdated fixtures that I had, and I wanted something that would create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere in my backyard. I also wanted something that was energy-efficient and easy to maintain.

I worked with a landscape lighting professional to design a system that would meet my needs and budget. We installed a variety of fixtures, including path lights, uplights, and downlights. The path lights provide enough light to safely walk around my yard at night, the uplights highlight my trees and shrubs, and the downlights create a soft glow in my garden.

I decided to embrace smart technology, allowing me to effortlessly schedule the lights with my new wireless Kasa outdoor lighting smart plug. With a few taps on my smartphone, I can set schedule the lights to turn on and off at the appropriate time as dusk and dawn change with the seasons. No more having to manually adjust the timer pins!

I’m so happy with the way my new landscape lighting turned out. It’s made my backyard a much more enjoyable place to spend time, both day and night.

If you’re considering updating your landscape lighting, I encourage you to take the leap — it might just illuminate a world of wonder you never knew existed.

Here are a few tips for choosing and installing or updating landscape lighting:

• Consider your needs. What do you want your landscape lighting to do? Do you want to create a safe path to your front door? Highlight your garden features? Or create a relaxing

atmosphere for entertainment?

• Choose the right type of lights. There are many different types of landscape lights available, including path lights, uplights, downlights, spotlights, floodlights and water feature lights. Each type of light has its own purpose. Path lights are for illuminating pathways and stairs with subtle, lowlevel lighting to prevent accidents and guide guests through your garden, enhancing both safety and the overall charm; uplights can be used to showcase tall trees, sculptures or architectural elements; downlights are for creating a soft glow; spotlights are for highlighting specific features; floodlights are used to illuminate a large area, such as a patio or deck; and water feature lights are used to create a beautiful and relaxing ambiance around a pond, fountain, or waterfall. Landscape lights come in a variety of colors and styles to match your personal taste.

• Consider the size of your yard. The size of your yard will determine how many lights you need. You’ll also need to decide how much light you want. Too much light can be harsh and overwhelming, while too little light won’t be effective.

• Plan your layout. Once you know what type of lights you want and how many you need, you can start planning

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Lee Tanenbaum, a master gardener since 2011 and currently a Fulton County Master Gardener alum. Lee has served as NFMG’s Communications co-chair for Publicity and Marketing as well as the interim chair of the NFMG Gardening Education Team. Lee is a retired speech-language pathologist and public health professional, a mother of three, and a grandmother of nine. Lee loves to garden and travel, especially with her grandchildren.

your layout. It’s important to place the lights so that they create a well-lit path and highlight the features you want to show off.

• Be mindful of your neighbors. Don’t install lights that are too bright or that shine into your neighbors’ yards.

• Consider your budget: Landscape lights can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping.

• Hire a professional. If you’re not comfortable installing landscape lighting yourself, hire a professional. A professional will be able to help you choose the right lights and install them properly.

Have fun with it! Landscape lighting can be a great way to express your personal style and add beauty and safety to your yard. With a little planning and

effort, you can create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space with landscape lighting that you’ll love for years to come. By carefully considering the placement, type, and purpose of your lights, you can transform your garden into a mesmerizing nocturnal oasis that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Happy gardening, day and night!

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

LEE TANENBAUM/PROVIDED
Backyard landscape lighting can add beauty and safety to your property.
LEE TANENBAUM Guest Columnist

OPINION

A goat farm on Chamblee Dunwoody Road

Herbert and Bonnie Tye West owned a goat farm along Chamblee Dunwoody Road in the 1930s. The address was Route 2, Chamblee, south of where Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Peeler Road meet. They were neighbors to the Dempsey, Marchman and James Donaldson families.

Herbert West owned West Lumber Company, with locations at Piedmont Avenue in Atlanta and in Scottdale. However, his Westwyndes Goat Dairy in the country seems to be a mission for better health through goat milk.

The goat farm covered 165 acres. Westwynde grade-A goat milk was advertised as easier to digest and helpful to those suffering from stomach issues. West described it as “…one of the finest and most nourishing foods in existence.”

According to West, goat milk would also benefit those with asthma, eczema and kidney troubles. He proclaimed it would help middle aged people stay young and vigorous. Atlanta drug stores, including Pitts and Bennett and Jacobs Pharmacy, began stocking Westwynde goat milk. (Atlanta Constitution, April 2, 1934, “Westwyndes Goat Milk Sold to Two Atlanta Drugstores”)

Katherine Rudaseal, home demonstration agent for DeKalb County, remembered the West family goat farm as the only one of its kind in the county. Bonnie West hosted the local Home Demonstration

THE INK PENN

ATLANTA CONSTITUTION

This advertisement for Westwyndes Goat Dairy in Chamblee appeared in the Dec.19,1932,

Club at her converted barn home. The home “…had a large sunroom with window seats on three sides of it which made a wonderful meeting room.” (“The Story of Dunwoody,” by Elizabeth L. Davis and Ethel W. Spruill)

The milking barn was 24 feet wide and 80 feet long, with two stories. Feed was dropped through a trap door. West described his Nubian breed goats as so particular they would not touch food that is not clean and fresh.

Much of the farm was covered with underbrush, delicious eating for goats. In addition, 65 acres was used to grow feed.

According to census records, the goat farm was not the location of their primary residence in 1930, but it became Bonnie’s home in 1940 after Herbert West died in 1939. In 1940, records show she lived with her 25-year-old son who had taken over management of West Lumber.

Westwynde was managed by H.G. Tye and his wife. Bonnie West’s name before she married was Tye, so a family connection seems likely.

Just as school groups made trips to Mathis Dairy to see how a dairy with cows operated, and to milk Rosebud, students were invited to take field trips to Westwyndes Goat Dairy. While there, they were told the benefits of drinking goat milk.

This article includes all the results of my research into the West family and Westwyndes Goat Dairy. As to the health benefits of goat milk, well, this is a history column not a health and wellness column.

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.

Book offers new take on King Arthur legend

Ever since I read Mary Stewart’s King Arthur trilogy when I was in high school, I’ve been a King Arthur fan. I suspect “The Crystal Cave” was one of the many books I snuck into class to read between the covers of textbooks. It was followed by “The Hollow Hills” and “The Last Enchantment.” Described as the Merlin trilogy, the books are told from his perspective.

Until this year, the last King Arthur book I read was “Finding Camlann” by Sean Pidgeon. Set in modern times, it’s the story of an archaeologist intrigued by new evidence discovered at Stonehenge. Like many before him, he sets out to establish whether Arthur ever actually existed.

When I learned there was a new King Arthur book out, I had to get

it. Was I daunted by its nearly 700 pages? Yes, and I wondered whether it would hold my interest. That wonder disappeared in only a few pages, as I stayed up late night after night to finish it.

“The Bright Sword” by Lev Grossman

Warning: This is not your typical King Arthur story. It is set wholly in Arthur’s time but has a modern tone. If profanity bothers you, you’ll want to avoid this book. If the conflict between the pagan world and Christianity will upset you, this is not the book for you. Those fairies don’t mince their words.

This description from a Forbes review captures what you’ll encounter in this tale featuring lesser knights of the Round Table.

“’The Bright Sword’ also broaches issues that are decidedly more contemporary: abandonment and abuse, sexual and gender identity, even immigration, all in ways that

feel natural and organic rather than preachy or pedantic.”

A young wannabe knight arrives at Camelot, hoping to become a knight of the Round Table. What he discovers is a small group of despondent knights sitting around the famed table. Arthur is dead, and the top tier knights are dead or departed. Forget Percival, Galahad, and Lancelot. He finds, instead, sirs Dinadan, Constantine, Palomides, and Bedivere, plus a court fool. I recalled Bedivere and Palomides but had to look up the other two. Sure enough, they did exist in the original legend.

To restore Camelot and save England, they must reestablish Arthur’s spirit and vision, and to do that, they must “solve the mystery of why the lonely, brilliant King Arthur fell.” The story turns much of the original material on its head but is all the more intriguing because it does. As the blurb says, this tale “… is steeped in tradition, complete

with duels and quests, battles and tournaments, magic swords and Fisher Kings. It's also a story about imperfect men and women, full of strength and pain, trying to reforge a broken land in spite of being broken themselves.”

If you’re a King Arthur fan, this is must-read. If you’re a fantasy fan and know little to nothing of the legend of King Arthur, it’s also a must-read. For me, one sign of a great book is that it stays in my head for days after I’ve finished it. This one did that and more.

Happy reading.

Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her Dickens & Christie cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ KathyManosPennAuthor/.

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a quorum of the City of Milton Planning Commission will be present on December 19th, 2024, immediately following the City of Milton Planning Commission held at 6:00 p.m. attending a Holiday Dinner which will be held at The Union, 14275 Providence Rd, Milton, GA 30004.

This Public Notice is in accordance with O.C.G.A. §50-14-1. No final action or other official business will be transacted.

This the 12th day of December 2024.

Locally Owned and Operated

770-645-1414

info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com

During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.

Invitation to Bid

Right of Way Landscape Maintenance

ITB NUMBER 25-PW02

Bid Due Date: January 8, 2025, by 2:00PM Local Time

Electronic submission via: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bidsrfps

Bid submissions will be publicly announced via a virtual bid 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 bids. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder whose bid meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the invitation for bids.

The City of Milton is requesting bids from qualified parties to provide right of way landscape maintenance services within the city limits of Milton, Georgia. All qualified bids will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The time and terms of payment, along with the conditions cost of plans and specifications can be found in the solicitation of bids posted on the websites below. A bid bond of 5% is required when submitting bid response. The request for electronic bids for ITB 25-PW02, Right of Way Landscape Maintenance will be posted on the following websites the week of December 5, 2024: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/

We are looking for one person or couple interested in delivering weekly newspapers in South Forsyth, Alpharetta and the Johns Creek areas.

Requirements: Must have a perfect driving record and background check, reliable transportation, honest, hard-working and positive attitude.

For more information or to apply, email heidi@appenmedia.com and include a paragraph or two about who you are and any relevant background/experience. In the subject line of the email please put “Delivery Route Application.”

Tammy Lowit, City Clerk

DC Aiken

Big Sky Franchise Team

David & Michelle Bertany

Amour & Duane Carthy

Adam Corder

Barbara Anderson

Kerry Arias

Scott Baynton

Joseph Bell

James Bennett

Join

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club

CHARTER MEMBER

Robert Flint

Robin Fricton

Zachary Hahn

Allison January

Michael Kenig

Rita Brown

Mark Casas

David Conti

Theodore Davis III

Maureen Drumm

Roderick Liptrot

Bob Meyers

Claude Nardy

Cliff Oxford Ross & Lori Ramsey

MEMBER+

Charlcie Forehand

Aileen Horton

Deborah Jackson

Ali Mahbod

Richard Matherly

MEMBER

Carl Abernathy

Bruce Ackley

Salpi Adrouny

Alpharetta Lions Club

Omar Altalib

Dave Altman

Ron Altman

Joel Alvis

American Legion Post 201

Alice & Dr. Richard Appen

Gaye Armstrong

Mary Asbury

Bangkok Boxing LLC

Shannon Banna

Beth Barnes

Janet Bass

Jannet Bauer

Barbara Bauschka

Kathy Beck

Laura Bentley

William Bentley

Leslie Berry

Tom Billings

Tochie Blan

Ron Boddicker

Jodi Bogen

Sherri Bolles-Rogers

Helen Borland

Debra Bowen

Joe Bowen

Ryan Brainard

Mark Brandus

Mel Brannen

Carol Bright

Linda Brill

Dorothy Brouhard

Erendira Brumley

Bernhard Burgener

Alvin Burrell

Mike & Theresa Buscher

Mary Busman

Clea Calloway

Kirk Canaday

James Carr

Bridgette Carter

William Cartwright

Frank Catroppa

Pat Check

Virginia Christman

Christopher Cleary

Ann Coaloa

Kim Coggins

Evelyn Collazo

Michael Mackenzie

Communications

Joan Compton

Carol Cookerly

Terri Coons

Rhonda Cude

Connie Cunningham

Christopher Cupit

David Davis

Duane DeBruler

Marilyn DeCusati

Rebecca Donlan

Tom Driscoll

Michael Dudgeon

Jeanette Dummer

DutchCrafters Amish Furniture

Thomas Edmonds

Mim Eisenberg

Danny Elkins

Su Ellis

Martha Fasse

Nell & Doug Fernandez

Lee Fleck

Cathy Flynn

Mary Ford

Nanci Foster

Amy Frederick

Kelly Frommer

Carol Fry

Tracey Ganesh

Daniel Gay

John Gibbs

John Gilberto

Leslie Gilliam

Bailey & Ryan Gladysz

Michelle Glotzbach

Harvey Goldberg

Christopher Goodrich

Phyllis Goodrich

Ralph Griffin

Marilee Hamilton

Susan Hanna

Marion Hannah

Roxanne Hazen

Joe Hirsch

Penn Hodge

Dianne & Steffan Holmquist

Joan Hostetter

Austin Hughes

Lynn Johnson

Tyler Jones

Arthur Kebanli

Laura Keck

Mark Kelly

Nancy Kennell

Randall Kent

Carol Kerr

Allison Kloster

Dyna Kohler

Larry Krueger

Jess & Chris Kysar

Malinda Lackey

Dennis Lee

Ken Leffingwell

Carol Lehan

Bonnie Lind

Francia Lindon

Harlan Little

Ross Long

Kyser Lough

Rita Loventhal

Brenda Lundy

Rita Loventhal

Karen Magill

Kyile Marshall

Julie Martin

Carla Masecar

Valerie Matthews

William Maxwell

Rachel McCord

Austin McCully

Diane McDonald

Sarah Reiter

Mark Rundle

Lynn Thomas

Kim Truett

Roger Wise Jr.

Evan McElroy

Vickie McElroy

Patricia Miller

Anne Peer

Robert Popp

Karen McEnerny

Lynn McIntyre

Mike McLoughlin

Jennifer Mendoza

Al Merrill

Chris Miller

Christine Miller

Joe Modica

Fred Moeller

Sarah Moen

Catherine Moore

Carol Morgan

Kathy Morgan

Stu Moring

Leslie Mullis

Donna Murphy

Jack Murphy

Cindy Nolan

Tricia Novarro

Bob O’Brien

Anne Pappas

Lynn Pennington

Jonathan Peters

Kurt & Leslie Phillips

Mary & Jan Phillips

Debra Powell

Joyce Provissiero

Chuck Pugh

Robert Radloff

Raj Rajagopalan

Ashwin Ramaswami

Cheryl Rand

Jean Rearick

Joseph Reed

Righteous PR

Neil Robertson

Kimberly Robinson

Matt Rohs

Kelly Sarmiento

Stephanie Schniederjan

The Schoenblum Family

Robert Scholz

Stephanie Schuette

Susan Searles

Tina Shelton

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Whittall

Sergey Savin

Helen Scherrer

Kate Seng

Carol Williams

Lisa Shippel

Joanne Simmons

Tom Simon

Cindy Simpson

Robert Singleton

Faye Sklar

Judith Slaughter

Andy Smith

Marcia Smith

Gena Spears

Donald Spencer

Melissa Spencer

Gloria Stathos

Robert Stevens

Wesley Stewart

Cathryn Stovall

Celeste Strohl

Diana Sullivan

Andy Sumlin

Mike Tasos

Candice Teichert

The Small Business Advisor

William Tietjen

Lisa Tilt

Michael Townes

Trunnion LLC

Matthew Tyser

Ollie Wagner

Lewis Walker

Jonathan Washburn

Michael Watson

Herbert Wells

Sally White

Thom White

Michael Weiss

Umpika White

Susan Wilson

Jamie Wimberly

Nancy & Dave Wistrand

Carla York

Jonathan Young

Scan QR code to join the Appen Press Club

Colt

Bilingual Food Pantry Supervisor

Bilingual

Food Pantry Supervisor

The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.

The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.

The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.

The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Aleem LLC seeks a Digital Mrkting & Operations Analyst w/ Master’s in biz admin, Engg(any), or Tech-rltd & 1 yr of exp to dvlp, own & implmnt test initiatives to improve conversion rate & profitability of mrkting campaigns. mnge & implmnt new digital mrkting campaigns directly in various platforms. Perform mrkt analysis & competitive intel research to inform new ideas or existing prog improvmnts. Collect, analyze & rep on key metrics from all digital campaigns. Define product vision & direction, & communicate it optimally to cross-funct teams, execs, & partners. Collaborate w/ stakeholders to execute experiences that align w/ KYC strategy. Drive end-to-end product dvlpmt & working w/ engg & design teams to dvlp & launch new prods & features.

Work location is Roswell, GA. Please mail resumes to 1080 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Building 200, Ste 140, Roswell, GA 30076 (OR) e-mail: omar@aleemlaw.com

Diamond Glass Co of Alpharetta is seeking an Admin Assistant. Must have the ability to multitask, excellent written/verbal communication skills, as well computer skills. Knowledge of QuickBooks a plus. Send resumes to nikki@diamondglasscompany.com

Site Reliability Engineer Senior (Alpharetta, GA): Dvlps basic to moderately cmplx code using front and/or back-end prgmng langs within mltpl pltfrms as needed in collaboration w/ biz & tech teams for internal & external client s/w solutions. Analyze, mdfy, & dvlp moderately cmplx code/unit tstng in order to dvlp concise app documentation & performs tstng & valdtn reqs for moderately cmplx code changes to apply corrective measures for moderately cmplx code deficiencies & to escalate alt proposals. Telecommuting Permitted. Pos may work in var unanticipated locations in the U.S. Resumes to: Total System Services, LLC, Brian Simons, Associate Director, HR Risk and Compliance, One TSYS Way, Columbus, GA 31901. #SK924871

Salesforce Application Architect (Alpharetta, GA): Leads & facilitates disc & scoping sessions w/ the biz stakeholders, understands biz processes, identifies, & communicates tech dsgn risks, dvlps mitigation approaches if necessary, & articulates the value of recommended solutions & approaches. Works w/ vendors & employees in a distributed Onshore/Offshore model. Resumes to: Global Payment Holding Company, Brian Simons, Associate Director, HR Risk & Compliance, 3550 Lenox Road NE, Suite 3000, Atlanta, GA 30326. #AR930863

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Become a published author. We want to read your book!

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/ day! 1-844-591-7951

Hiring Part-time (Tuesday/Thursday) Assistant Teacher: Midway Preschool @ Midway UMC Email Beth Dotson – beth@midwayumc.org or call 770-752-0440

& Fitness

Miscellaneous

a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

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

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service.

Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/29/24.) Call 1-844-501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.