Relocation Answer Book 2016

2016 An Appen Media Group Publication

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In Atlanta and throughout Georgia, Northside Hospital provides high quality health care. It begins with our medical and administrative leadership – known for accountability and acknowledged for perennial success. Our employees, volunteers and caregivers are connected, regardless of where they are or what they do. When our patients and families need one, we give them everyone. Because at Northside Hospital, our great doctors have great teams.

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Letter from the publisher Publishers Ray & Christina Appen General Manager Hans Appen Editor

Kathleen Sturgeon kathleen@appenmediagroup.com Editorial Kathy Cioffi Julia Grochowski Hatcher Hurd Kathleen Sturgeon Candy Waylock Production David Brown Jennifer Edwards Arthur J. McNaughton Suzanne Pacey Advertising Mike Dorman Sabine Genet Wendy Goddard Susan Hernandez June Meltzer Steve Neese April Thornton Reproduction of the content of the Answer Book—including all maps— is prohibited without expressed written permission. The Answer Book is a trademarked title. All efforts have been made to verify content. Appen Media Group publishes the Education Answer Book, the Relocation Answer Book, the Medical Answer Book and the Lifestyles Answer Book. Online versions are accessible on NorthFulton.com at the bottom of the home page. Contact us at 770-442-3278 or email advertising@ appenmediagroup.com.

Welcome to your new-and-improved Relocation Answer Book! This issue marks the second edition of our upgrade to premium glossy paper stock and handy digest size (check out the first edition, Education Answer Book).

The purpose of the RAB is and always has been to provide a guide for people and families relocating to the area. We offer information on schools, cultural spots, the biggest events for each community, letters from the mayors and much more.

The content in the RAB is great all year round which is why the coffee table is an ideal place to “store” it.

We have been creating four different Answer Books – one each quarter – for the past three years. We publish one on education, relocation, medical and new this year, the Seniors Answer Book. This new edition will be taking the place of our Lifestyles Answer Book.

We feel the SAB will provide a unique reading experience for a huge part of the North Fulton and South Forsyth communities that our other publications don’t. Everyone at Appen Media Group is excited to roll out this new product!

Also, all four Answer Books are incredibly wise advertising values. The Answer Books have a long shelf-life so your advertising investment keeps working throughout the year.

And did I mention that all of our Answer Books are also available digitally on NorthFulton.com? That’s an audience of more than 100,000 print readers in addition to our online audience.

If you missed out on advertising in this Answer Book, don’t fret. Just call us today at 770-442-3278 to get information on the next edition.

If you have suggestions about content that we might want to include in the next edition, let us know and we’ll consider your ideas! Email our Answer Book editor Kathleen, kathleen@AppenMediaGroup.com.

The Answer Books are available to most chambers of commerce, cities, homeowner associations and real estate companies. We also homedeliver 40,000 copies throughout North Atlanta.

Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here all your life, we’re glad that you’ve picked up this copy of the Relocation Answer Book.

Happy reading!

Ray Appen, publisher 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta AppenMediaGroup.com 4 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

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on the

WHAT’s

HORIZON?

Community leaders from Alpharetta, Forsyth County, Johns Creek, Milton and Roswell give you an inside look on what’s happening in North Atlanta.

2016 marks a special milestone in the history of Johns Creek as nearly 10 years ago our referendum was approved by over 70 percent of the voters to become a city. And, since that time, we have walked this path together. We shared a common goal to meet our fate and create what would be the ultimate in self-determination. We have evolved into a city where we made our own rules to follow and set goals that set us apart.

Over the last two years we have been refining our brand, “Be the Exception.” There is no better representation of this ideal than the high-quality people who are continuously drawn to this city to live and establish businesses. Our residents and business owners come from all over the nation and the world. This diversity of culture and ideas is the foundation of our strength, and it will continue to propel us to even greater heights than 6 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

we have already achieved.

As we enter our second decade as an incorporated city, the City Council worked together to outline a new vision and mission that we believe will keep Johns Creek on the path of long-term sustainability.

Our new mission is quite simple. To be an exceptional city. The goal was to have a simple, yet aspirational mission statement of which all things could be judged. Sounds simple, yet it requires a tremendous amount of effort to maintain, but that is what you expect and deserve.

Our vision states that Johns Creek strives to provide for an exceptional residential community with ease of movement throughout, an alive town center, and a vibrant business community.

The City Council devised six key goals in support of our mission and vision and will closely measure progress and refine our efforts as necessary. The goals include a fo-

cus on providing a comprehensive transportation network that facilitates ease of movement throughout the city; ensure a complete recreation and parks system that aligns with the goals and needs of our community; implement a holistic economic development plan approach that addresses infrastructure, workforce, community and land development needs; develop an innovative and cost-effective approach to exceptional service delivery through a focus on government efficiency; support and invest in public safety; and preserve our residential character and enhance our sense of community.

We encourage the public to remain engaged with us as we walk along this path together. You have a voice and it needs to be heard.

Let’s continue to write our own history as we began this journey 10 years ago and prove each and every day that we are, and will continue to be, nothing less than an exceptional city.

Mike Bodker, Johns Creek Mayor

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ON THE HORIZON

Welcome to our area!

As the mayor of the city of Milton, let me be one of the first to welcome you! Regardless of whether you moved here from another location within our city or relocated here from thousands of miles away, I’m hopeful you will enjoy calling North Fulton home.

In addition to giving you a hearty welcome to Milton, I want you to be aware of the a few big things we have happening in our city this year: 1. New facilities: As a 9-year-old city, 2016 is a huge year for us. From the reopening of Providence Park to working on our new City Hall, we will see a lot of projects moving forward or to completion in Milton in the next year.

2. Leading the standard in local government: We strive to innovatively connect with residents and business owners on a daily basis and provide services. We are implementing our new strategic plan, which will guide our city over the next five years with goals focused on preserving what makes Milton unique, continuing to build community connections and provide rich and engaging experiences for all residents. Each

Welcome to Forsyth County – the heathiest county in the state for four consecutive years! If you have had the pleasure of spending time in any of our fantastic parks, you will understand how we have earned this prestigious designation.

With more than 20 parks and recreational areas and everything from hiking trails and playgrounds to dog parks and disc golf, Forsyth County Parks and Recreation truly offers something for everyone.

On top of our great parks, Forsyth County is proud to offer topnotch public safety services, three locations to serve active adults and senior citizens, transparent access to county government through our website, TV Forsyth and Facebook 8 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

one of these goals gives Milton’s staff and elected officials the exciting opportunity to interact with residents on a new and deeper level. We are also currently exploring the possibility of bringing a bond referendum question to the voters in November 2016 which would add one more layer to our green space preservation initiatives.

3. Moving around Milton: In 2016 you’ll see us take serious steps toward improving your trips through Milton at heavy commute times.

Early summer will bring completion of the Hopewell Road at Birmingham Road roundabout. Construction is slated to begin on a major overhaul of the Crabapple Crossroads — one of our most requested projects. As part of this project, we’ll break ground on a new road to relieve some of the traffic in our downtown area.

Walkability in Crabapple will also see improvements If you have any questions or would like more information about Milton, please give me a call at 678-2422484 or email joe.lockwood@cityofmiltonga.us. I’m available anytime you need me.

Again, welcome to North Fulton!

Joe Lockwood, Milton Mayor

page, a wonderful animal shelter and three recycling convenience centers. All of these factors contribute to the outstanding quality of life for which Forsyth County is known.

I am proud to say that Forsyth County is able to provide all of these programs, amenities and services while maintaining tax rates among the lowest in metro Atlanta. As you can imagine, that is not an easy task considering Forsyth County continues to rank among the fastest-growing counties in the state and nation.

In fact, the most recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show Forsyth County’s population topping 212,000. Your county government is run efficiently and effectively, with a

constant eye toward both providing residents with the very best service possible and keeping the tax levy as low as possible.

While traveling through Forsyth County, you are likely to see roadwork underway. That is because Forsyth County – both the government and residents – have made transportation improvements a priority. Voter approval in 2014 of the $200 million Transportation Bond has enabled us to fund a variety of important road projects, including the widening of Ga. 400 from McFarland Parkway to Ga. 369.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Forsyth County: Your community. Your future.

R.J. (Pete) Amos Chairman, Forsyth County Board of Commissioners

Over at Avalon, phase II has commenced. It began with a groundbreaking of the first office building outside the perimeter in over 10 years without a pre-signed tenant.

Ten stories in the heart of Avalon, it is a sign of the great faith the business community has in our future.

Later this summer, we will break ground yet again at Avalon. A new conference center, which will help our technology industry grow and thrive here in the Technology City of the South, has been given the green light. It will help make this city a place where great things happen.

Between downtown and Avalon is the Thompson Street corridor.

Heart, Soul, Sense of Community Help Make Roswell Wonderful Roswell is the best place to live in the state of Georgia. What makes Roswell unique is our combination of the heart, soul and sense of community of the small town I grew up in and the amenities, culture, diversity and opportunities of a metro Atlanta city. Roswell is the perfect place to juggle careers and family life. We were even recently named one of our nation’s coolest suburbs in which to live. Those of us who live here already knew that, but it’s nice to be recognized nationally for it.

So what makes us “cool?” Those same things that brought me back here after college. Roswell is all about community. We celebrate our diversity every day. Our restaurant scene is the best in the metro area. We have a burgeoning arts scene. And, of course, our natural resources are second to none. The Chattahoochee River winds along the edge of town and

ON THE HORIZON

Two things that make us unique among the cities are our technology industry and the ongoing improvements to our downtown/Avalon core. Alpharetta is at the same time old, new and reimagined.

This year, however, is the year of breaking ground. We will soon break ground on the final phase of Alpharetta’s City Center.

It will include several new restaurants, shops, a new park and businesses. One of the new buildings is even designed to look like the old Milton County Courthouse.

The other buildings are designed to appear as if they were built over time.

The project also includes a new office building, which will bring a new technology company to our downtown, deepening the healthy mix of commerce and experience in downtown.

This year, we will be breaking ground in this corridor with a series of projects, bringing new residents and a linear park. This corridor will work to bridge the two worlds of downtown and Avalon, which stand a mere half-mile apart.

Even with all this, we are continuing the hard work of making Alpharetta safer, to shorten travel times through the city, to provide better management of rainwater, and to improve and expand our park system. It is a busy year, a rewarding year, a groundbreaking year!

David Belle Isle, Alpharetta Mayor

offers everything from kayaking to fishing. Our parks system has been nationally recognized as one of the best in the country. Our trail system, which thousands of people enjoy, winds through it all. And we preserve our proud heritage with our antebellum museum homes, Civil War sites, and remnants of the original mill which our founders built in the mid-1800s.

Roswell is authentic, pure and simple. Other cities are trying to create what we have had here for years and years and their new city centers are nice, but they are not authentic. Roswell is both modern and historical where old South meets new South. We have a vibrant community with a relaxed refinement that draws good people of all ages and backgrounds to live here. I invite you to come and experience Roswell for dinner, for a day, or for a lifetime. You are always welcome. There is nowhere else like Roswell.

Jere Wood, Roswell Mayor Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 9

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Explained

MARTA is The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, Atlanta’s state-of-the-art public transportation system.

Q. How do I ride MARTA?

Read about MARTA in North Fulton, Page 65

A. Easy Planning - Call 404-848-

5000 and give customer information operators your departure and destination points. Take your time; repeat the information given and then write down information about MARTA locations, the names and numbers of routes, departure and arrival times, and any transfer information you may need. Feel free to ask questions and to call again to review your instructions.

Easy Boarding: Look for the blue, gold, and orange striped signs that identify MARTA stops, stations and vehicles.

Bus Riders: MARTA buses display the names and numbers of routes just above the windshield.

Signal to the driver that you wish to board.

Train Riders: Signs that display, “To Trains” direct you to the boarding platforms. Remember which direction (north, south, etc.) you plan to travel. Look for white courtesy telephones, customer service personnel and uniformed MARTA transit police for additional assistance.

Easy Fares: A single $2.50 fare covers one-way bus or train trips, including transfers. You will need a Breeze Card or Ticket to ride. An additional $2 will be added to the purchase of a Breeze Card. Bus riders may drop exact

12 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

cash (bills or coins) into the fare box near the driver. Or tap your Breeze Card/Ticket on the target on the farebox.

Transfer Policy: Bus to Bus transfers are no longer issued. You must have a valid Breeze Card loaded with appropriate fare to ride MARTA. Transfers are only available on a Breeze Card and are automatically loaded when you tap to board a bus or exit a rail station.

If you pay with cash you will still need a Breeze Card to receive your transfer. Bus-to-Bus transfers are designed to help customers get from point A to point B that are not accessible using one bus route. Transfers cannot be used for roundtrip travel.

CONTINUED on PAGE 14

Breeze cards

Breeze Cards are available in all rail stations. The cards are different from Breeze tickets, which will remain available in rail station vending machines. They are eligible for balance protection – a program through which registered customers can recover any value programmed on to their card if it is lost or stolen.

Breeze Cards can be loaded with up to $300 in stored value, multiple trips or monthly, weekly and weekend passes.

New Breeze Cards n As of Jan. 9 2016, MARTA switched to a more secure silver Breeze Card that costs $2 and is valid for three years. n The old (blue) Breeze Cards will be valid through July 9, 2017.

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Easy Riding: Enjoy the ride, but stay alert. If you need assistance while traveling, bus riders may ask our friendly drivers to help you identify your stop. As you approach your stop, pull the overhead cord, or push the strip along the windows to let the driver know you want to get off. For rail transit users, rail system maps are clearly posted inside each train car. Trains stop at all stations and the station name is announced prior to arrival.

The station name is also visible from the train. Exit signs located in every station identify directions to nearby streets and landmarks.

Q. How much does it cost to ride MARTA? A. MARTA is $2.50 for a one-way fare (no pennies); 1-Day Pass: $9; 2-Day Pass: $14; 3-Day Pass: $16; 4-Day Pass:

$19; 7-Day Pass: $23.75; 30-Day Pass: $95. Special Fare Programs area available for visiting groups of 200 or more, students and faculty.

Senior citizens, disabled riders and Medicare recipients only pay $1. Children 46 inches and under can ride MARTA for free. Limit two children per paying adult.

Breeze Cards and Breeze Tickets can be bought and reloaded at Breeze Vending machines in all 38 Stations and in RideStores inside Five Points, Lenox, Airport Stations and at the MARTA Headquarters building across from the Lindbergh Train Station.

Q. How does a Day Pass work?

A. The Day Pass offers unlimited

rides from the first use for 1,2,3,4, 7 or 30 consecutive days. A day on MARTA is not 24-hours; a day starts whenever service begins in the morning, and ends whenever service stops at night. Bus and rail

service times vary from weekdays to weekends.

Q. When does MARTA operate?

A. Buses: MARTA buses operate

weekdays from approximately 5 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. and until 12:30 a.m. weekdays and holidays. Bus schedules may vary by neighborhood.

Rail: 4:45 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Monday-Friday; 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekends & holidays.

Trains arrive every 10 minutes during rush hours (6 - 9 a.m. and 3 - 7 p.m.), every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and every 20 minutes after 8:30 p.m. and on weekends.

Renovation Work Schedules: Due to renovation on the rail system, expect up to 20 minutes between trains after 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and continuously Friday, 9 p.m., through Sunday on certain weekends. Refer to Single Tracking schedules listed on MARTA’s homepage as times may vary. For more information, please visit scheduled delays or call Customer Information at (404) 848-5000.

Q. Is MARTA accessible for disabled riders?

A. MARTA provides easy service

to elderly and disabled passengers. All of MARTA’s trains, rail stations and its entire bus fleet are accessible.

MARTA has a TDD Schedule Information telephone number for the hearing impaired. Call 404848-5665 between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and most holidays.

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Alpharetta launches bike rental service on Greenway

By PATRICK FOX

Alpharetta took another step this year to open its roads up to bicycle traffic by approving a contract for three bike rental stations.

Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard said the measure is part of an ongoing effort by the city to promote bicycle traffic from the Alpharetta Greenway to major points within the city, such as Avalon and the new City Center.

“A person may decide he or she wants to bike the greenway instead of walk, but they don’t want to lug a bicycle all the way there to do it,” Drinkard said.

Alpharetta agreed to pay $21,840 for a one-year contract with Zagster to implement and maintain the program. The three sites follow the Big Creek Greenway with stations at North Point, Rock Mill Park and the Alpharetta YMCA. Smyrna became the first metro city to implement a bike share program last September. The city, which also tapped Zagster to run its program, has three rental 16 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

stations with four bikes each. It paid $32,960 for implementation and one year’s maintenance on the program.

Smyrna spokeswoman Jennifer Bennett said the city plans to bring on a fourth station soon along Concord Road, and because ridership has proven robust, city leaders are considering proposing a fifth station.

Since the Smyrna program launched Sept. 12, the bike share program has logged 1,526 trips to date and has 831 active members.

“Those stats are just off three stations and 16 bikes,” Bennett said, adding that she expects the numbers to increase as the weather warms up and more stations are added. As things develop in the downtown, she said, there may be other businesses that want to add their own bike station independent of the city’s stations.

Smyrna Councilwoman Teri Anulewicz, who helped spearhead the drive, said one of the reasons she supported the program is because the city had put a lot of money and work into its infrastructure for bicyclist and pedestrian

traffic, especially with multipurpose trails.

“One thing that was important to me in working with the vendor is I didn’t want the city to have to own or maintain the bicycles,” she said. “So it’s nice to have this partnership where we don’t own the bikes. We don’t have to hire someone to manage it.”

Alpharetta Parks and Recreation Director Mike Perry told the City Council Monday that the original vision was to begin the program at City Center and run the route to Avalon, but development along the Thompson Street corridor has delayed that plan.

Councilman Dan Merkel wanted to clarify, and Perry confirmed, that because Zagster will manage the program, the city will not be liable for injuries. However, the city will be responsible for damage or theft of the vehicles.

Perry said rates for the rentals have yet to be set, but he anticipates a similar setup as that established in Smyrna where the first four hours are free and each subsequent hour is $5 up to $40 per ride.

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COVER STORY

Paul Martin moving on to bigger and better digs

By Kathleen Sturgeon Paul Martin is an ideal subject for the cover story in a community and relocation guide since he’s doing a little relocating himself.

His business, Paul Martin Interiors, has been open for over 20 years and, within the next few months, will have a new home in the Peachtree Pavilion shopping center on the corner of Majors Road and Peachtree Parkway.

The new location is currently being built and will have a 10,000-square-foot showroom, he said. In addition to furniture and artwork, the new venue, slated to open in October, will have an emphasis on accessories.

“We are very excited about moving,” he said. “We will own the building. It’s in a better location and will be easier to get in and out.”

From now till October, Paul Martin Interiors will be located at 1810 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 211, Cumming in The Village at 18 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Creekstone Shopping Center.

But, no matter his professional address, Martin remains focused on providing decorating style, creativity and experience to his clients’ homes or businesses.

“We are a complete design firm,” he said. “We can do it from the ground up with you, inside and outside.”

Right now, the metro Atlanta area is experiencing tremendous growth, he said.

“There are a lot of people coming into the area,” he said. “It’s booming and hot. They come in to get my advice and hire us to design their homes.”

Martin opened his own interior design business in 2006. Today, Paul Martin Interiors represents over 250 different companies that provide interior design products.

Staying in touch with trends is something hr strives for. That means knowing what’s in right now, what’s about to be in and what is on the way out so he can help his

customers make the right decision for home or office.

Currently, trends in the area, which he learns about by visiting the High Point Market, include using the color red, having an “organic” feel for furniture and using Crypton fabric, which is anti-stain and comes in hundreds of choices.

Martin said when homeowners or businesses are decorating new spaces, it’s important for them to get with a good design firm that knows how to help pick out fixtures, flooring and everything else.

“They need to know how to bring your taste and lifestyle into

all Photos by Abby Breaux Photography

your house and turn into a home,” Martin said.

He and his team can help families design pretty much everything from lighting, another area the new store will expand on, to fabrics, painting, shutters and anything else that makes a house a home.

“Your home is where you live,” he said. “You want to make it personal. In today’s trend, it’s all about the family and making it a cozy environment. I love working with people and helping them reach that.”

Martin uses renderings of his clients’ spaces with pictures drawn to scale of exactly how each room will look. He also creates detailed plans of all areas including lighting, wall colors and furniture.

“People hire a designer to take their dream and vision and turn that into a reality beyond what they are able to achieve on their own,” he said. “Clients want to be able to use every room in their house, and I want to deliver that for them.”

He said being a people person is what sets him apart from his

competition.

“You have to work with someone you’re comfortable with and who knows what is in and out,” Martin said. “I think sometimes

when people go online, that can be a big mistake because you get so confused. When you’re working with a true designer, they know what’s right for your house.”

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 19

Left: The Atlanta Humane Society has locations in Alpharetta and Atlanta.

Below: Wendy Hsiao has no regrets about adopting her dog, Georgia, from the Atlanta Humane Society and would definitely go back for another pet.

Humane adoptions for every home

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI From longtime pet owners to firsttime adopters, the Humane Societies of Atlanta and Forsyth have resources available for all animal lovers.

Typically, the adoption process is quick. Pets can be viewed online or in person by visiting a shelter. Individuals interested in adopting will need to fill out an application and spend a few minutes with the pet so they can familiarize themselves with each other. An adoption counselor will interview each adopter as well. This is the perfect time to ask any questions about the pet and its needs, according Wendy Hsiao, first-time dog owner who adopted from the Atlanta Humane Society.

Counselors will explain everything about the animal’s history, previous training, temperament and what to expect as it grows.

The process is a little longer 20 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

and more involved with the Humane Society of Forsyth County. As a private nonprofit, they are dedicated to finding each pet’s forever home so no pets are returned. They take the time to know each potential pet owner personally through multiple interviews and conduct home inspections. Like a matchmaking service, they want to make sure each person is fitted with the best pet for his lifestyle and personality.

“If the potential owner is very active, we try to match them with an active animal … If they’re very busy, we try to match them with a dog or cat that maybe doesn’t need as much attention or activity,” said Mark Schullstrom, president of the Humane Society of Forsyth County.

When owners need assistance after adopting, both shelters provide additional health and training services. They will help owners work with animals if they’re having

behavioral problems and offer checkups if pets are ill. The Atlanta Humane Society even has grief counselling for owners who have recently lost a furry friend.

The Forsyth shelter additionally has a large community pet food pantry for those in need. Low-income residents who are struggling to feed their pets but want to keep their families intact can fill out a short application to receive a free full supply of pet food every month. “We try to have a lifetime relationship with the owner,” said Schullstrom.

“We want to be a part of their life.”

All pets from both shelters come fully vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered.

For more information, visit atlantahumane.org or www3.forsythpets.org

• 1st Orthodontist in Alpharetta • Served Over 20,000 New Patients • Diplomat of American Board of Orthodontics • Convenient Office Hours Winner 2 yyears in a Row

Voted Best Orthodontist in North Fulton and South Forsyth

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4205 North Point Parkway • Alpharetta, GA 30022

770-751-1240 • www.jwjordan.com Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 21

Resources for your pet’s ‘furever’ home Humane Society of Forsyth County: 4440 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming, Ga. 30041 This no-kill shelter located in north Forsyth County adopts out both cats and dogs.

They also have a pet food pantry and a thrift store. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Visit www.forsythpets.org for more information.

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

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You’ve found your perfect house, love your new community and already are starting to find your favorite local places. But what about the family members with a little more fur?

Or maybe you were waiting to adopt a new family pet after you moved.

Whatever your scenario, we’ve compiled a list of pet resources including dog parks, pet-friendly dining patios and rescue groups.

Dog parks Waggy World Paw Park: 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 This 1.5-acre park is managed by the Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department. It’s located behind the Alpharetta Community Center at Wills Park, so bring the kids for a fun day at the park for everyone. It is fenced in so dogs can be let off their leashes, with a separate space for smaller dogs. The park also offers a drinking fountain located just outside the fence. It is open from 8 a.m. to sunset.

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Newton Dream Dog Park: 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek, Ga. 30022 Newton Park is a fenced 1-acre area with artificial turf, sprinklers for dogs to play in, obstacles to play on, plus water fountains for people and pets. It offers separate areas for large and small dogs, along with a bridge, hoops and tunnels. It is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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22 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Pet-friendly dining Fowler Park: 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming, Ga. 30041 This 85-acre park is split into two areas for smaller and bigger dogs.

The park offers water fountains, waste disposal areas and benches.

It is enclosed so dogs can be let off their leashes. Hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Corner Deli: 10 Roswell St., building #120, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 Located in the heart of downtown Alpharetta, this deli shop offers dog-friendly seating on their outdoor patio. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Sundays.

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Animal rescues

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Atlanta Humane Society: 1565 Mansell Road, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 This no-kill rescue has two locations in Atlanta and Alpharetta.

They offer adoptions of both dogs and cats.

Atlanta Humane Society (AHS) is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit and the oldest private charitable organization in Atlanta founded in 1873. The Alpharetta location is open for adoptions Monday to Friday from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.atlantahumane. org for more information.

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Lucky’s Burgers and Brew: 1144 Alpharetta St., Roswell, Ga. 30075 This dog-friendly restaurant was inspired by the owner’s dog and offers more than outdoor seating for dog lovers. The menu offers burgers with dog-themed names such as Georgia Dawg Pounder, Retriever and Russian Wolf Hound.

Be sure to look out for Lucky himself. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Sunday.

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People making a difference Edward Bailey

Giving hope back to Forsyth County Not by choice, but by destiny, Edward Bailey says he arrived at No Longer Bound as an addict in his early 20s.

“This organization has become my passion and life’s calling,” he said. “Who would’ve ever dreamed my life would turn out this way — from addict to husband to father to executive director. I count my blessings every day for all that’s been gifted to me.”

No Longer Bound is a 12-month residential regeneration center for men with addiction to alcohol and drugs, Bailey said.

“The men entering our program completely leave everything behind for a period of time as they begin the regeneration process,” he explained.

“Through classroom work, vocational training in our four industries, journaling and time spent with mentors and peers in deeply intensive and personal sessions, the men uncover false truths and clear the path for inner healing and eventual connection with God, self and their families.”

This is the process Bailey, 35, went through that ultimately led to him becoming the executive director at NLB. “My first experience with No 24 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Longer Bound was when I arrived here over 12 years ago, a young man strung out on meth who had lost everything,” Bailey said. “I was at rock bottom and No Longer Bound saved my life. Since that time, I’ve completed the program, stayed on to work as a member of the staff, and assumed the role of executive director in 2014. It is an honor and privilege to watch true life transformation take place every day here — the process we call regeneration — returning these men to their communities, their homes and their families.”

The recent epidemic of drug abuse and overdoses in the metro Atlanta area has caused a spike in families reaching out to No Longer Bound for assistance, which Bailey is happy to help provide.

“Addiction can strike anyone, or any family, at any time,” he said.

“Addiction crosses gender, race, and socio-economic barriers, but is not a death sentence. May we always be sympathetic to those families fighting addiction. It is devastating on so many levels. As a community we need to better support those families.

Despite what you might hear and see, addiction can be overcome. We see it every day.”

For families seeking hope, No Longer Bound offers exactly that.

“We’ve created what we

believe is one of the top addiction regeneration programs in the country,” he said. “Our graduation rate, at approximately 70 percent, is very high, and we have so many success stories to share. To have this resource in our community is so valuable, should it ever be needed.”

For information on NLB, visit nolongerbound.com.

Ron Wallace

Former UPS International president

Dorothy “Dot” Benson 2016 Distinguished Older Georgian

Scarcely anyone can remember when Dorothy “Dot” Benson was not advocating for senior citizens. For at least a quartercentury she has campaigned tirelessly for the elderly in Alpharetta and Fulton County.

She was a charter member of the Fulton County Council on Aging, lobbying and gently twisting arms to get more activities and programs for the older residents of North Fulton. She has also been active in the Rotary Club, Girl Scouts and with Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department’s community garden program.

Now 94, she has been a longtime supporter of the Fulton Golden Games in which older adults compete for medals in the monthlong collaborative Olympic-like games for older adults. In its 22 years of existence, she has not missed one.

“Keeping active is just the best thing you can do,” said Benson.

Her crowning achievement has come as an advocate for the four Fulton County senior

multipurpose facilities throughout the county. They are a “one-stop” place for seniors 55 and older to have access to a variety of resources. These facilities provide opportunities for seniors to participate in life-enrichment classes, nutrition education, fitness, leisure and recreational activities.

The facilities have cafeterias, exercise equipment, therapeutic pools, computer training centers and art classrooms.

Of course, the facility Benson is closest to is the Dorothy C. Benson Senior Multipurpose Center in Sandy Springs, named in her honor as an advocate for senior services all over Fulton County.

Earlier this year, Benson was honored by the Georgia Council on Aging as the 2016 Distinguished Older Georgian at the Georgia State Capitol.

State Rep. Chuck Martin (RAlpharetta) personally read and presented the proclamation to her.

She is not done yet, though.

Her new crusade is a campaign to provide affordable senior housing for older adults so they can stay in the community as they grow older.

Hearing another book on leadership is coming out could be akin to hearing Carter’s got more liver pills. But when the book has been written by such an experienced, no-nonsense source as former UPS International President Ron Wallace, heads turn and notice is taken.

Wallace makes two things clear in his slim but information-packed volume. Thing No. 1 is leadership is not rocket science. But it does take adherence to certain principles and accountability – accepting your share of accountability and demanding it of others.

Thing No. 2 is everything Wallace learned about leadership came from his time spent in the UPS corporate culture of “we not me.”

As a man who has conquered every hill he chose to climb, one has to ask why write this book on leadership, and why now.

As to the now, Wallace said he has been “pestered” for some time by friends both in corporate UPS and from outside. But the kicker CONTINUED on PAGE 28

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 25

Roger Wise

‘Paying your civic rent’ If you ask Roger Wise what he does with himself, he’ll tell you he’s a facilitator.

The 74-year-old Roswell resident is involved in about every aspect of community service, and his reach goes beyond city halls and the state Capitol.

“I know people in elected office. I know corporate America. I’m an advocate. I know social organizations.

I know civic organizations,” he said.

Wise is involved in just about everything, from the Roswell Rotary Club to issues in the Legislature (he has an all-access badge at the Capitol) to charitable activities involving private citizens who need help.

He likes to specialize in education, health care and veterans affairs.

One of his more recent activities has been serving as adviser to Northview High School junior ROTC cadets. The cadets raised money for the Johns Creek Veterans Association to help buy two plaques for the Johns Creek Memorial Walk. The plaques, to be placed on the POW/MIA memorial and the Purple Heart memorial, will pay tribute to veterans for their service.

Wise said he likes to integrate patriotism and civic involvement in all his talks with students. He speaks about “paying your civic rent,’’ a philosophy that reminds youths that the freedoms they enjoy were not free.

Wise exercises influence in public and private arenas.

“I am not black, I am not white, I am not Democrat, and I am not Republican. I’m Roger Wise. I’m issue-oriented,” he said. “People trust me. And I treasure that.”

The North Carolina native got his start in community service during his last 15 years with Abbot Laboratories. The company put him in charge of regulatory affairs and governmental elections. “I should have been a lobbyist, but the company, early on in my career, found out that my facilitating and helping make good things happen was a good marketing tool,” he said. “They allowed me the freedom to serve as a planning commissioner in Fulton County, on the Housing Authority and chairman of the board of commissioners of housing.”

Wise said he believes everyone has a civic debt to pay, and he speaks to students about “paying your 26 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

civic rent.” The reward is returned in “psychic income,” which he defines as anything from a warm feeling inside, pride in one’s community or a simple “thank you” from a stranger.

One of his proudest moments came in March 2014 when, in a surprise announcement while he was at the Capitol for a Rotary function, both chambers of the state Legislature honored him with a Roger Wise Day. Choking back tears, Wise was called to the podium.

“I was humbled,” he said. “I didn’t know what to say because I was crying.

“I looked around and said ‘My grandma told me something long ago … she said sonny boy, you‘re only going to be as successful as your friends will allow you to be.’ I looked around the chamber and said, ‘Thank you, my friends,’ and I stepped down.”

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 27

Deborah Zemlock

out roses, yellow flag iris and native shrubs. The plan was adopted by the city and today stands as a living reminder of her commitment to beautify the bustling city.

“I was thrilled they agreed,” Zemlock said.

One of the councilmen, John Monson, told Zemlock of a vacancy on the Tree Commission and asked her to join. Within a year, the Tree Commission became the Natural Resource Commission and branched out into recycling,

landscaping and education.

Zemlock gives much of the credit for the work to her predecessor, David Cox, who led the commission through major projects and campaigns. The rest of the credit she gives to volunteers, students from local schools, local corporations and other groups like the Young Men’s Service League and Rotary. Zemlock often designs landscaping plans for these groups to carry out, like a butterfly garden in Wills Park.

One of the major events occupying her time has been following the development of the new downtown. Zemlock said she doesn’t oppose the City Center, but she has reservations about the number of trees sacrificed for the project.

“I’m not fine with a lot of the things going on with the remaining areas that are now being developed in Alpharetta,” she said. “Since there is limited space and often challenging topography for the developer, it results in a lot of trees coming down so they can grade.

I can put on my ‘what’s good for development in Alpharetta’ hat and say ‘I can handle that,’ but in my heart, it hurts me to see those trees coming down, and I know it hurts a lot of citizens, too.”

something different to say. And I can say it with my experience based on leadership in the trenches.”

What has shaped Wallace and remains at the core of what he believes about leadership comes in a straight line from Jim Casey and Claude Ryan. They were the teenagers in 1907 who started what would become United Parcel Service with one bicycle and $100 they borrowed from a friend. This was

when a stamp cost one cent.

Wallace began his UPS career in 1966 as a driver – it’s where all corporate UPS leaders begin, on the bottom rung. One of the first rules mandated by Casey and Ryan was that everyone is equal, and everyone addresses each other by using first names. It is done in part to instill the company has one goal: To deliver – with the best possible service and at the lowest possible rates.

Watchdog for Alpharetta’s green space If you’ve ever wondered how a technology and commercial hub like Alpharetta remains shrouded in greenery, you might pay a visit to Deborah Zemlock.

Zemlock chairs the Alpharetta Natural Resource Commission and is a self-professed tree hugger. The six-member commission is a group of volunteers appointed by the city to safeguard the best interests of Alpharetta’s green space.

Zemlock, a landscape designer and horticulturist by education, came to the commission eight years ago after interceding with the city’s plan to landscape a stretch along Wills Road in front of Wills Park “I live just down the street, and there were no plantings along that stretch of the park at all,” she said.

“I heard about a proposal where they were just going to put up a line of Leyland cypress along there. I thought, ‘I think we can do better than that.’”

So, pro bono, she designed a landscape plan that included trident maples, a variety of juniper, loropetalum, Virginia sweet spire, knock-

CONTINUED from PAGE 25 came after speaking and giving talks at some of America’s top colleges and universities.

“I began to sense that these students were not getting what they needed in school. In my career, I’ve seen the good, the bad and the ugly.

I’ve seen all kinds of cultures in the 150plus countries I’ve visited,” he said.

“So I thought maybe I have 28 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Alpharetta Presbyterian Church helps residents connect to the community and each other Chances are, if you are reading this article, you have moved to Alpharetta from another city, state or possibly country. In our increasingly transient society, it can be a challenge to put down roots and feel connected to your community. For almost 30 years, Alpharetta Presbyterian Church has been reaching out to local residents, offering a place to connect, to grow, to serve and to belong.

“We are a welcoming, inclusive congregation, and we try to meet people where they are,” said Dr. Ollie Wagner, senior pastor.

For families with young children, APC offers a 9:30 a.m. worship service which coincides with the Sunday school hour, as well as a traditional 11 a.m. service. Child care is provided during church activities for infants through age 3.

APC Dayschool provides an excellent half-day preschool for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Vacation bible school each summer brings together hundreds of children for a fun week of games, music and Bible learning. Older children and teens enjoy weekly youth croup, national and international mission trips, and local charity work.

APC’s Open Arms ministry works to make worship and church life available to all, including those with developmental disabilities. A Promise Class for persons with special needs is offered during our worship services, along with parents’

nights out several times per year.

Small groups are offered for every stage of adult life, from college grads to empty nesters to retirees.

The music ministry brings together talented individuals through choirs, handbells and instruments. APC’s community theater group, ACT1, puts on several shows each year.

Programs such as APC’s supper club, book club, men’s softball and basketball, prayer groups, Bible study groups and women’s circles offer countless ways for people to form lasting friendships, creating a supportive church family.

“We believe in sharing God’s love daily, both within the congregation and beyond,” said the Rev. Caitlin Phillips, associate pastor.

APC’s pastors are very much a part of church members’ lives, greeting newborn babies in the hospital, and personally caring for

those who are sick or grieving. The church provides volunteer support and financial relief for those in crisis, locally and globally, through a wide variety of charitable organizations.

APC offers a “small town within a big city,” with familiar faces and helping hands. A place to put down roots together. To learn more, visit www.alpharettapres.com.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 29

Census: Forsyth 11th fastestgrowing county in nation County is second fasestgrowing in state

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Out of the 100 fastest-growing U.S. counties with 10,000 or more residents, Forsyth County ranked 11th, according to recent data compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau.

In April 2010, Forsyth’s estimated population was 175,511.

But in July 2015, it was 212,438, an increase of 36,927 or 21 percent.

“This is a remarkable community,” said James McCoy, president of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce. “We have a world-class quality of life. Forsyth County has some of the best public schools in the nation. The cost of living is low and taxes are remarkably low. We are also one of the safest communities of our size in the country. It also makes a great deal of economic sense. Overall, people get a lot more for a lot less out of their pocket.”

However even with the population increase, Forsyth is no 30 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

longer the fastest-growing county in Georgia.

Long County, south of Savannah and near Jesup, took the top spot for the state. It saw a rise of 22.7 percent with a population estimate of 17,731.

But McCoy said he’s not sure that Forsyth’s rate is slowing.

“I believe that others have rates that are simply outpacing our rate,” McCoy said. “If you look at the census data for Long County, you will see that they have grown from 4,524 [people] in 1980 to about 17,113 in 2014. This is impressive growth and certainly outpaces Forsyth County. However, our growth rate remains strong. We have been in the top 20 fastest-growing counties in the nation for over 20 years.”

There was only one county

larger than Forsyth in the top 10.

Fort Bend County in Texas grew 22.4 percent from 2010 to 2015.

Their population went from 584,832 to 716,087.

The fastest-growing county from 2010 to 2015 was Williams County in North Dakota. It grew 57.6 percent, from 22,398 to 35,294.

Other metro Atlanta counties grew in population, with Fulton County now home to over a million residents. Gwinnett County’s 2015 population estimate was 895,823, Cobb was 741,334, Cherokee 235,900, Hall 193,535 and Dawson 23,312.

The metro Atlanta area still ranks ninth in the nation for largest population, coming in behind cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Dallas and Los Angeles.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 31

Cultural Spots

Forsyth Cumming Playhouse playhousecumming.com 101 School Street, Cumming, GA The Cumming Playhouse is located in the 1923 Cumming Public School, a structure named to the National Register in 2000.

A property of the City of Cumming, it also houses the Historical Society of Forsyth County. The playhouse offers visitors a look into Cumming’s history. Patrons enjoy a variety of plays and concerts as well as playhouse tours.

Cumming Fairgrounds cummingfair.net 235 Castleberry Rd, Cumming, GA The Cumming Fairgrounds offers seasonal fun for the family.

In October the Cumming Country Fair and Festival brings the community together for wild rides and tasty food. Rodeos, shows and other festivals keep the fairgrounds hopping in the fall and winter.

Forsyth County Arts Alliance forsythartsalliance.com The Forsyth County Arts Alliance aims to enrich the quality 32 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Trying to find a place unique to your new city? Look no further.

of life in Forsyth by connecting people to the arts. The Alliance advocates for the arts to keep them thriving in the community.

Lake Lanier lakelanier.org Lake Sidney Lanier was completed in 1957 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Forsyth County operates several parks on the shores of this more than 38,000-acre lake including the popular Shady Grove Campground.

Sawnee Mountain Preserve 4075 Spot Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 sawneemountain.org Located on and around Sawnee Mountain, the 963-acre Sawnee Mountain Preserve offers unique recreational and educational opportunities to the public.

Roswell Canton Street Historic Roswell Canton Street, with its dozens of shops, art galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafes, is bustling

with vitality, having among its many awards the designation as a Great Place In Georgia – Great Street.

Explore boutique shops and stores and then stop for a bite to eat in the many award-winning and unique restaurants.

Riverside Park 575 Riverside Road, Roswell, Ga. 30075 roswellgov.com Kids can enjoy the sprayground while adults take advantage of hiking and bike trails as well as the waterfront of the Chattahoochee River. During the warmer months, live concerts are held on the stage and foodtrucks often come by.

Historic Roswell southerntrilogy.com Dubbed the “Southern Trilogy,” the three historic homes owned by the city - Barrington, Bulloch and Smith Plantation – all date to the founding of Roswell in the earlyto-mid 1800s. They are some of the few antebellum mansions still in existence in Atlanta. Barrington Hall was home to the royal family of Roswell, the Kings; Bulloch Hall was home to Mittie Bul-

loch, mother to President Teddy Roosevelt.

Roswell Cultural Arts Center 950 Forrest Street, Roswell, Ga. 30075, 770-594-6232 roswellgov.com This venue hosts theatre, music, dance, puppet shows performances as well pageants, celebrations, special events and exhibits. Many local groups call the 600-seat theatre home.

Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, Ga. 30075 770-992-2055 chattnaturecenter.org An interpretive center for the Chattahoochee River, Chattahoochee Nature Center is the oldest and largest private non-profit natural science learning center in the Southeast. This environmental sanctuary encompasses 27 species of native wildlife and 127 acres of native plants and gardens.

Alpharetta Avalon 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta, Ga. General Info: 770-765-2000 experienceavalon.com Located at the intersection of Ga. 400 and Old Milton Parkway, Avalon is an experience in the timeless art of living well. A luxury community infusing resort-level hospitality throughout a walkable, community of shopping, dining, living and working.

Alpharetta Big Creek Greenway Trail Length: 8 miles one way joins 1.5 mile loop

Barrington Hall

Type of Trail: Out and back; easy Access Points: YMCA at Preston Ridge Road or North Point Parkway or Haynes Bridge Road, Alpharetta Characteristics: 12 foot wide paved path for biking, walking, roller blading, inline skating along creek; birds and mammals, flora and fauna, can be seen from the trail. Access to beginner and intermediate mountain bike trails.

Restrooms available.

Verizon Amphitheatre 2200 Encore Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004 vzwamp.com At the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, you will enjoy performances by today’s leading artists and the Grammy-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Set on 45 acres of beautifully-landscaped wooded land, the 12,000-seat state-of-the art venue provides a unique setting for music lovers.

Upcoming shows at Verizon Amphitheatre n Ellie Goulding with special guest Matt and Kim: Delirium World Tour, June 6, 2016 7 p.m. n Keith Urban with Brett Eldredge and special guest Maren Morris, June 11, 2016 7:30 p.m. n Crock Fest, feat. Lynyrd Skynerd, Molly Hatchet and more, June 18, 2016 n Taste of Chaos Tour, feat. Dashboard Confessional with Taking Back Sunday, June 22, 2016 6: 30 p.m. n Barenaked Ladies with special guests OMD and Howard Jones, June 28, 2016 7:30 p.m. n SiriusXM presents “I Love the 90’s”, July 16, 2016 7:30 p.m. n Tedeschi Trucks Band with special guests Los Lobos and North Mississippi Allstars, July 23, 2016 7:30 p.m.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 33

North Park 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta, Ga. 30004 alpharetta.ga.us With seven lighted tennis courts, two multi-purpose synthetic turf fields, eight lighted softball fields, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, an adult activity center, an arts building, Rotary Reflection Garden and a walking trail. What more could you ask for?

Throughout the year, the Center offers over 75 unique classes and workshops for youth, adults and seniors. In addition, the Center hosts the largest summer arts camp in Fulton County and delivers community outreach programs and Girl Scout badge & try-It programs.

Autrey Mill Nature Center and Heritage Center 9770 Autrey Mill Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 678-366-3511 The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Cultural Heritage Center is on 46 acres of ravine forest and a scenic creek. It has 2 miles of walking trails wind past the creek and forest filled with mature trees, wildflowers, native plants, and a variety of animal life.

It is also home to the Heritage Village comprised of four buildings original to the site and four landmark structures moved from nearby properties. This village and its related exhibit pieces provide an understanding of this area’s proud rural heritage from the mid-1800s to the mid-1900s.

Newtown Park Amphitheater 3150 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30022 johnscreekga.gov The Newtown Park Amphitheater provides a venue for City-sponsored events, such as its summer concerts. Naturally designed with stacked stone and arches of Southern pine, the 10,600-square-foot open-air amphitheater offers up to 400 seats under cover, and another 1,000 seats on its terraced grass surroundings.

It also home to the Johns Creek Farmers Market each Saturday morning from April through October.

The Amphitheater was engineered to accommodate a wide-range of musical genres from acoustic performances to symphony orchestras. While food and non-alcoholic drinks may be brought in, contracted vendors provide a variety of catered food and beverages, including beer and wine.

Johns Creek Arts Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road Building 700 Johns Creek , GA 30097 770-623-8448 Johns Creek Arts Center was established in 1996 as a unique partnership between the Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture and the private sector.

Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk johnscreekga.gov This 4-acre contemplative memorial park is one of the largest non-cemetery memorials in Georgia. It has 10 memorial plazas commemorating the veterans of all American wars since 1900.

It provides a reflective backdrop

JOHNS CREEK

34 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

for visitors who wish remember family members and loved ones who served the country in uniform.

The Veterans Memorial Walk is in Johns Creek’s Newtown Park, but the $300,000 cost was entirely subscribed through the donations of private citizens and businesses as well as a generous donation from the Republic of Korea (for the Korean War Plaza).

It is also the site of Veterans Day, Memorial Day and Patriots Day events.

MILTON Downtown Crabapple Crabapple Road/Ga. 372 Milton’s ‘downtown’ has a historic hometown feel while incorporating some of the city’s new growth.

Eat at some of the best restaurants in town or bring a picnic to the Broadwell Pavilion. Shop for trendy outfits and unique artistic pieces at local retailers that bring contemporary style to southern comfort.

Bell Memorial Park 15245 Bell Park Road Newly reopened Oct. 2015, Bell Memorial is a nearly 36-acre active-use park with four diamond baseball fields and two multipurpose fields, pavilions, concessions and a playground.

Thomas Byrd Sr. House 15690 Hopewell Road Newly revenovated June 2015, the historic 4,000 square foot, two story home on Hopewell Road, which dates back to the mid-1800s, is a center for Senior Services North Fulton during the business day and an event facility for special occasions.

Imagine, Believe, Create, Achieve!

Like Alpharetta Recreation Follow @AlpharettaParks

PROGRAMS • Active Adult Adventures • Art Enrichment & Workshops • Bike Share Program • Dance, Gymnastics • Fitness Programs • Instructional Sports • Outdoor Programs • Pickleball • Special Events • Summer Camps • Swim & Aquatic Programs • Team Sports - Adult/Youth/Teen • Tennis - Lessons & Match Play • Tree Climbing

Providing year-round sports, activities and special events, the Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department is nationally accredited and recognized for its outstanding programs for children, adults, and seniors. In addition, the department manages and operates one of the finest equestrian facilities in the southeast at Wills Park. And along Big Creek, the Greenway system provides a safe, environmentally pleasing pathway for users to enjoy quiet leisure time.

PARKS / CENTERS • Alpharetta Adult Activity Center • Alpharetta City Pool & Splash Zone • Alpharetta Community Center • Big Creek Greenway • Brooke Street Park • Cogburn Road Park • Crabapple Government Center and Alpharetta Arts Center • North Park • Rock Mill Park • Union Hill Park • Waggy World Paw Park • Webb Bridge Park • Wills Park Equestrian Center • Wills Park Recreation Center 678-297-6100 recreation@alpharetta.ga.us www.alpharetta.ga.us/recreation Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 35

Public art

popping up in Johns Creek

Sculptures on loan add to city’s color, energy

By HATCHER HURD Public art is just what it says it is. It’s art, and it is placed outdoors where the citizens can enjoy it.

In October 2015 the City Council blessed the project to allow loaned sculptures from all over the country to be placed for display around the city. It is a part of a project begun by the Johns Creek Beautification Public Arts Committee.

This group of volunteers is an offshoot of the Leadership Johns Creek effort to create the infrastructure for accepting public art in the city. The beautification committee picked up the gauntlet and set to

work, first establishing the criteria, and then vetting the artists.

“Public art was always a goal for Johns Creek Beautification,” said Linda Johnson, who founded the nonprofit.

Now it is a reality. From the infectious Creepy Crawly on display in Shakerag Park to the piece named He Stopped and Turned to See and Listen in Newtown Park, they offer an interesting, sometimes provocative, interlude in the daily lives of citizens.

The committee spent months preparing. Once they were ready, they sent out requests for art, and 46 artists replied. The city’s Arts and Culture Board narrowed that field to six works and two alternates. The public art master plan has designated where the works

North Carolina sculptor Adam Walls has fashioned the most eye-catching piece among the collection. It’s called Creepy Crawley.

36 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Teak Bench Watcher by artist Jim Collins and can be found in Newtown Park. can go – mostly in public parks.

All of the pieces are done by professional artists who will receive $1,000 stipends from the beautification committee. These stipends will be used for the artists to ship their art to Johns Creek and pay the cost of insuring them.

Eventually, the group hopes to have rotating art displays.

Teak Bench Watcher, by Jim Collins of Signal Mountain, Tennessee, almost invites the viewer to sit beside him. And some people do.

The 10-foot sculpture, He Stopped and Turned to See and Listen, was carved out of locust wood by Charlie Brouwer of Willis, Virginia. It creates an immediate link to the viewer – what is he looking at? It also begs the question: Shouldn’t we all turn and listen more? What might we learn?

Adam Walls, a sculptor who teaches at the University of North Carolina-Pembroke, created perhaps the most provocative work: the 400-pound Creepy Crawley.

This huge arachnid is one that a visitor can simply walk through or climb on. It’s permitted.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 37

More than

books Libraries have a lot more to offer than just borrowing books these days.

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI Between tutoring, reading programs, bookstores, e-resources and puppet shows, the libraries in Forsyth and Fulton counties offer services for people of all ages to encourage an active learning environment.

Each library offers unique events tailored to their community. “We invite performers of all kinds during the summer – artists, authors, magicians, puppeteers, musicians – there’s always something going on,” said Laura Bradley, from Forsyth County Libraries. A full schedule of events is available on each library’s respective website.

The funding for most of these events in part comes from the Friends of the Library, an independent nonprofit group. Many library branches have their own Friends group that are

The Alpharetta library

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The Forsyth County libraries constantly run programs and events to educate kids in fun ways. associated with them. “The libraries work closely with them,” said Claudia Strange, from the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System. “The Friends of the Libraries do a great job of enhancing and supporting a lot of our services and programs with the funding they provide.”

The Friends groups often organize small bookstores or book sales inside the libraries where patrons can buy books, DVDs, magazines and CDs. Most of these items are used and donated by the community, but a few branches include new copies as well. “All of the profits they get from the bookstores they turn around and give back to the library,” said Bradley. “We use the money for programs and materials.

So that’s a great way to give back.”

Along with their physical collections, the libraries also offer a robust selection of materials online. Electronic versions of books, music and movies are all available for members to borrow from the comfort of their own homes. All that’s needed to take advantage of the services is a library card. If someone can’t find what they’re looking for, even in the online catalogue, they can simply request an interlibrary loan.

Members of the Atlanta-Fulton public library system can additionally enjoy their free eCampus resources. eCampus offers numerous online classes, including one-on-one test prep tutoring and practice tests for all K-12 students. Adults can also benefit from the services, which include career advice, job prep, language learning and certificate courses.

There’s always new material being added online. Strange said they are working on integrating a magazine reading app for members to enjoy publications for free as soon as this summer.

l l e w s Ro Photography by Lori Suzanne Photography

A MEMORABLE WEDDING IN

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Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 39

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Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 41

Explorers Welcome!

The Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell prides itself on connecting Atlanta to nature.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a 127-acre private, nonprofit, award-winning, interpretive center dedicated to environmental education. Visitors enjoy the Gold level LEED-certified Discovery Center Museum and Nature Exchange with hands-on, minds-on exhibits focused on telling the river’s story.

Visitors are invited to bring a picnic, hike easy woodland trails that meander along native rehabilitated raptor aviaries, stroll through beautiful native plant gardens or explore the river boardwalk.

Unique family friendly events including the Flying Colors Butterfly Festival and Encounter, Halloween Hikes, Harvest on the Hooch and other traditional events attract 42 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

visitors from far and wide each year.

Seasonal guided canoe trips, family fun days, adult programs including Sunset Sips, the Nature Club and the Sundays on the River Concert Series add to the community’s recreational and cultural offerings.

They offer exceptional onsite and offsite programs for students in grades K-12 linked to Georgia’s curriculum. Green birthday parties, Camp Kingfisher, as well as Scout programs plus a wide spectrum of workshops and classes focused on ecology give local youth a firm foundation in the natural sciences, building future stewards.

The CNC is one of the few locations that rehabilitates native raptors, amphibians and reptiles, releasing them back to the wild when they are well, through a permit with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Visitors especially enjoy their Creature Features, wildlife feeding times and animal encounters. A film called “Reimagine the Chattahoochee” is shown daily in their Cowie Weiss theater. In the Unity Garden, fresh produce is grown for the North Fulton Community Charities’ food pantry, with volunteer help, demonstrating the immensely popular “farm to table” movement. They also have spaces available for booking private rentals for weddings, receptions and meetings.

Open daily, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon – 5 p.m., general admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students 13-18, $6 for children 3-12, and free for children 2 and under.

For more information or directions, call 770-992-2055 ext. 238. Visit the website for daily happenings at www.chattnaturecenter.org.

Education bills cross finish line

By CANDY WAYLOCK After 40 days in session, the Georgia General Assembly called “sine die” in the wee hours of March 24, with a flurry of action and inaction that sealed the fate on a number of legislative issues.

The end date was one of the earliest recesses in recent memory; last year the session concluded on April 2. But the rush to start campaigning and fundraising for the May 24 primary election certainly sped up the process.

While the focus of the 2016 session seemed to center on religious freedom and more guns everywhere, education watchers found reasons to celebrate as the session ended.

Of most interest was Senate Bill 364, which lessened the impact of student achievement on teacher and administrator evaluation.

Although the bill is lengthy, with pages of provisions, the bottom line is student scores on mandatory assessments (Georgia Milestones) will no longer make or break careers.

Previously the scores counted for half of a teacher’s assessment.

The new bill drops that to 30 percent and only considers scores from students who have been in school for at least 90 percent of the school year.

The bill received near unanimous support from both sides of the aisle, and will go into effect

upon Gov. Nathan Deal’s signature.

The governor has until May 3 to sign a bill into law, veto it, or do nothing and allow it to become law without his signature.

Both bills dealing with weapons on college campuses were sent to Deal, but the specter of a veto could be looming for one.

House Bill 859 allows guns in most areas of a college campus by licensed gun owners, and HB 792 allows electroshock weapons (Tasers and stun guns). Some see these as the first step toward weapons in K-12 schools, and Deal has expressed concerns with guns on campuses which have day care centers.

Following is a partial list of school-related bills that are awaiting Deal’s signature after passing both House and Senate.

HB 614 – Allows voluntary placement of video cameras in special education self-contained classrooms.

HB 659 – Requires school districts to post financial information on school and district websites, including budgets, expenditures, cost of materials, salaries, maintenance, etc.

HB 792 – Electroshock weapons can be carried/used by students or employees on public postsecondary campuses and in buildings with certain limitations.

K-12 institutions are not included.

HB 801 — Gives extra credit to-

ward HOPE scholarship to students taking tougher courses.

HB 825 – “Protecting Military Children Act.» Requires the child welfare agency receiving any reported event of abuse by a military parent or guardian to also notify the Department of Defense Family Advocacy Program.

HB 859 – Allows any license holder to carry a concealed weapon when in any building or property owned/leased by institutions of higher learning. Exceptions are in any buildings or property used for athletic sporting events or student housing.

HB 895 – Requires principals and finance directors of charter schools to take finance training annually. Training must include payroll, purchasing, government accounting, financial policies, internal controls and budgeting.

HB 959 – Changes provisions in the state’s education legislation (Title 20) by defining freedom of speech for board members; clarifies awarding of dual-credit diplomas; and exempts students with dual-credit course grades of A or B from taking end-of-course tests.

SB 275 – Prohibits any local governing body, including local boards, from having any policy that prevents the members of that body from exercising their right to free speech or from discussing freely the policies and actions of the body.

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Area schools among AP elite All NF high schools receive ‘honor’ ranking

By CANDY WAYLOCK

“We’re excited to see the gains our schools have made. Our students passed more than 12,220 AP exams last year, which is 3,200 more exams than five years ago.”

Kenneth Zeff, interim superintendent for Fulton County Schools

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Eight high schools in North Fulton were among the 272 public high schools in Georgia named to the 2015 Georgia Department of Education 2015 AP Honor Schools list. The list recognizes schools whose students perform exceptionally well in the rigorous advanced placement courses.

Honor schools are named in six categories based on the results of 2015 AP courses and exams, with AP Merit Schools the most prestigious category. Schools in this category have at least 20 percent of their student population taking AP exams, with at least half of all exams earning scores of 3 or higher.

All eight traditional high schools in North Fulton were among the select group of 61 schools in the state – out of 449 total public high schools – named AP Merit Schools.

The schools include Alpharetta, Cambridge, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Johns Creek, Northview, Milton and Roswell high schools.

These eight high schools were also named AP STEM Schools, AP STEM Achievement Schools, and AP Humanities Schools; all based on participation and exam scores.

The STEM categories recognize

high schools with achievement in AP science, technology, engineering or mathematics courses.

Humanities Schools include AP courses in English/language arts, social science, fine arts and world language.

“AP classes give our students the opportunity to work at an accelerated, college-level pace while also stretching their knowledge outside of the traditional high school curriculum,” said Kenneth Zeff, interim superintendent for Fulton County Schools.

He noted the number of students participating in AP courses in Fulton County has increased by 44 percent over the past five years.

“We’re excited to see the gains our schools have made. Our students passed more than 12,220 AP exams last year, which is 3,200 more exams than five years ago,” said Zeff.

The GDOE began recognizing AP Honor Schools in 2008, adding STEM recognition in 2011 and the AP Humanities category in 2015.

AP courses and exams are administered in high school by the College Board, which also administers the SAT. Students who receive a 3, 4 or 5 on AP exams given at the end of their course may receive college credit.

The complete rankings Elementary schools

Forsyth County Schools

5th best in state All elementary in top 100 schools

By KATHLEEN STURGEON A recent list of rankings of the top schools in Georgia

by Niche shows that Forsyth County Schools are not only ranked fifth in the state, but individual schools rank pretty high themselves.

The rankings are based on “statistics, student and parent reviews, and expert insights. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, student and parent reviews, and more,” according to Niche, a ranking and review website.

Forsyth’s elementary schools, all of which are in the top 100, receive a gold star for their rankings. Out of the 20 elementary schools in the district, seven are in the top 20 and 14 are in the top 50. The lowest ranked elementary school was at No. 62.

The county’s nine middle schools were ranked from No. 3 to No. 28.

Three of the five high schools were in the top 50 with the fifth landing the No. 136 spot.

Cumming: No. 7 Whitlow: No. 8 Johns Creek: No. 11 Daves Creek: No. 12 Shiloh Point: No. 14 Settles Bridge: No. 17 Midway: No. 20 Mashburn: No. 21 Sawnee: No. 22 Chestatee: No. 23 Chattahoochee: No. 25 Big Creek: No. 28 Coal Mountain: No. 32 Brookwood: No. 46 Silver City: No. 55 Kelly Mill: No. 58 Vickery Creek: No. 59 Sharon: No. 60 Matt: No. 61 Haw Creek: No. 62

Middle schools Otwell: No. 3 Piney Grove: No. 4 Little Mill: No. 5 Lakeside: No. 7 Liberty: No. 15 Riverwatch: No. 17 South Forsyth: No. 18 Vickery Creek: No. 19 North Forsyth: No. 28

High schools Lambert: No. 4 South Forsyth: No. 8 West Forsyth: No. 49 Forsyth Central: No. 79 North Forsyth: No. 136

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 45

“What do you like best Sound off

about your community?

Ted and Tracey Glaser, Roswell: “We moved here for the school systems – they’re top-notch and safe.”

Abby and Natalie, Roswell: “We love the rivers here. The Hooch is a great place to go have fun.”

Jarret Cohen, Roswell: “I like the natural amenities: lots of parks and ways to spend time outdoors.

I especially like the riverside recreation available.”

Amy Christiansen, Milton: “I like that this is a community you can count on when in need. There are big hearts in Milton!”

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Emily Yandel, Jane Yandel and Shannon Holihan, Alpharetta: “What I like about my community is all of the trees.

It’s very green and there are a lot of parks and outdoor activities, but it’s also not the middle of nowhere. It’s a nice balance!”

Sherrill Melnowski, Johns Creek: “I like the walkability, and there are so many neat local restaurants and shops.

People really know each other. When you walk down the street, you run into people you know.

It’s very charming.”

Debra Ewing, Roswell: “It’s a community.

It feels like a family. You can get to your representative, and they listen to you.”

Valeria and Dasha Korolev, Roswell: “We really love the art scene and historical parts of the town. We’ve been on the ghost tour eight times!”

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Looking to volunteer…

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Here is a list of local places …

Faith leaders and mental health specialists have long touted the need to look outside of ourselves and give back to our community and to those in need. When we take the time to offer community service or humanitarian aid by donating our time and talents to lift others, we benefit mentally and spiritually. Teaching younger generations to give of themselves in various capacities is ensuring a compassionate culture, tamping down the “It’s all about me” mentality. Choose any of the following deserving organizations and give part of yourself to them. You will find yourself in the process.

Uniting Communities in Georgia Inc. (UNICO) unicoga.org Volunteer to help support and promote the economic and personal development of non-Englishspeaking individuals by serving as an English tutor or offering basic computer training, among other activities.

Next Generation Focus — SmarterMe Tutoring nextgenerationfocus.org/ smarter-me Tutor economically challenged families, especially children in K-8 in math and other subjects.

Longleaf Hospice longleafhospice.com Visit senior hospice patients in home or facilities and volunteer by talking, reading to or playing music or games with patients. Volunteers also give caregivers respite.

Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters furkids.org Cheerful volunteers are needed to greet visitors, clean cages and give cats and kittens much-needed play time.

Senior Services North Fulton ssnorthfulton.org Adult drivers are needed to deliver meals to homebound seniors.

Every Woman Works – Bee Boutique ewwbeeboutique.com

Every Woman Works – Bee Boutique needs adult volunteers to sort and hang clothing in the resale shop. Proceeds benefit the Every Woman Works organization.

She Will shewill.org For business-oriented volunteers, She Will is an organization created to educate young girls between the ages of 8 and 17 on the importance of financial literacy and career empowerment.

Treat The Troops treatthetroops.org Volunteers help unload the organization’s trailer of care packages that will be sent to service members.

Tiny Stitches tinystitches.org Volunteers are needed to sew and/or crochet and knit layettes which are donated to hospitals for newborns whose families cannot provide for them.

Hire Heroes USA hireheroesusa.org/volunteers Volunteers help transitioning military members, veterans and spouses succeed in the civilian workforce.

Keep Forsyth County Beautiful keepforsythcountybeautiful.org The Mobile Action Crew focuses on giving citizens a chance to have a direct impact on the beauty of Forsyth County. The group meets the second Thursday of every month at 4 p.m.

North Fulton Community Charities

Relay For Life of North Fulton The American Cancer Society

nfcchelp.org NFCC’s monthly need is specifically for groups of five to 15 kids under the age of 13 who want to serve the organization (with adult supervision). Volunteers provide quart-sized baggies and labor and NFCC supplies toiletry items and instructions for assembling kits.

relay.acsevents.org Join the fight against cancer with Relay For Life in the North Fulton area. Volunteers are needed on leadership teams for North Fulton Relay For Life events.

Homestead Hospice homesteadhospice.ne Homestead Hospice is locally owned and operated by a team of experts in various fields. Volunteers donate time, energy and experience in a variety of areas.

Volunteer - Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

afpls.org/volunteer Boundless volunteer opportunities are available for bookworms and anyone else with a love of everything library related.

H.E.R.O. For Children heroforchildren.org Impact a child by becoming a superhero mentor. Volunteers only have to be friends. In the process, volunteers and mentees will both benefit from the relationships forged.

Georgia Region | American Red Cross redcross.org/local/georgia Do you enjoy driving and want to make a difference? Support the American Red Cross by transporting blood and blood products throughout the region in a safe and timely manner.

Meals by Grace mealsbygrace.org Help feed hungry children with Meals by Grace by preparing and delivering boxes of joy. Weekday volunteers are needed as well as on Sundays.

Habitat for Humanity Restore habitat.org/restores Do you have a heart for Habitat for Humanity and the people served by the organization? Volunteer at your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore, where new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials and more are sold to the public at a fraction of retail prices. Proceeds are used to help build strength, stability, self-reliance and shelter in local communities and around the world.

Leadership Johns Creek Inc. leadershipjohnscreek.com Want to volunteer but can’t do heavy lifting? You can get involved and not sweat by working with Hero4aDay, helping with reception setup and cleanup .

Feel Beautiful Today feelbeautifultoday.org Would you like to help with CONTINUED to PAGE 52 Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 49

Summer service opportunities

S

ummer is the best time to get your kids and youth groups involved in community service. When school is not in session, kids are available during the day to help nonprofit organizations on-site. Too hot to go outside? Consider assembling hygiene kits, layette sets or first-aid kits for those in need.

You can assemble at home or church and then make a field trip to the donation center. Here are a few organizations where kids can donate time and energy to making a difference in their community.

Keep Forsyth County Beautiful keepforsythcountybeautiful.org Many volunteer opportunities

all year long. Several activities are child-friendly. Whether you are looking for an ongoing project or a one-time event, there is something for you and your family or youth group.

The Mobile Action Crew: If your busy student or church youth group needs service hours at the last minute, consider this once-amonth activity that lasts an hour and a half. Most of the MAC events involve picking up litter along the roads in Forsyth County. This useful service has a direct impact on the beauty of Forsyth County. This group will meet the second Thursday of every month at 4 p.m.

Adopt-A-Stream Macroinvertebrate Workshop: If your kids love

the idea of getting wet and muddy and handling water creatures, this long-term volunteer opportunity is for them.

Learn how to sample the biological aspects of a stream. The next workshop begins July 23.

MUST Ministries mustministries.org For 40 years, MUST Ministries has been helping connect people who have a desire to help with those people who most need the help in Marietta, Smyrna and Canton/Cherokee County communities.

Looking to celebrate Independence Day in a more public-spirited way? Consider bringing your children ages 10 to 17 to help

Inspiring Students with the Passion to Excel

• Nurturing environment featuring small class sizes, differentiated, hands-on academics, STEM, leadership opportunities, and monthly field trips • Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade • New Middle School • After school and Summer Camp SACS, GAC and NAEYC accredited

Please call to set up a tour.

5380 Faircroft Dr. Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.McGinnisWoods.com 770-664-7764 50 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

bling children’s first-aid kits, utensil rolls and donate baked goods and desserts for the many meals MUST Ministries provides on a daily basis.

The Salvation Army

provide a holiday buffet meal on the Fourth of July at the Loaves and Fishes Kitchen, 55 Elizabeth Church Road, Marietta. Children must be accompanied by a parent.

Youth must be 16 years old to serve in the kitchen. Children from 10 to 15 can serve in the dining room.

Children can also help with off-site opportunities by assem-

YE

cassie.kelly@uss.salvationarmy.org The Salvation Army is a “volunteer-fueled organization with opportunities for individuals, families and groups large and small. Gifts of time and talents go a long way toward improving the lives of those we serve. That is why volunteers are the backbone of philanthropic support for The Salvation Army.”

The Salvation Army is in need of volunteers who like to sort and organize. All ages are welcome to help sort the variety of donations the Salvation Army receives on a daily basis.

0

A R S O F PATIE NT CARE

Tip for parents There are helpful websites that list volunteer opportunities according to location, age of participants and length of activity. Check out Justserve. org and Volunteermatch.org for just the right activity for your busy bees this summer.

Salvation Army TOY DRIVE satruck.org Encourage your summer camp group to host a toy drive for the Salvation Army. Have a “toy drive day” during Cub Scout day camp or vacation bible camp. Gently used toys are donated to the Salvation Army stores and sold. Proceeds are used to fund the Adult Rehabilitation Centers.

Proudly Serving Our Community Alpharetta 678.987.1485

Dawsonville 770.781.4010

Johns Creek 678.475.1606

Cumming 770.781.4010

Duluth 678.745.3030

Roswell 770.569.0777

www.atlantagastro.com AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 51

CONTINUED from PAGE 49 communications? Feel Beautiful Today is looking for a committed, talented and goal-oriented communications volunteer to help provide love, hope and encouragement to women and girls affected by cancer. Other volunteer opportunities available, as well.

Keep North Fulton Beautiful keepnorthfultonbeautiful.org In addition to document shredding events, volunteers help with litter cleanups, beautification projects, edible garden maintenance and more.

Gardens of Roswell gardensofroswell.com Come help brighten the lives of senior residents with Gardens of Roswell. The organization is looking

52 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

for people who love to love on seniors and need volunteers for a wide range of activities.

Mentor Me North Georgia, Inc. mentorga.org There are many ways to help kids and give back with Mentor Me North Georgia Inc. Community -based programs offer flexibility by matching volunteers with children for a variety of activities.

Make-A-Wish Georgia georgia.wish.org Volunteers work in teams of two to help plan and fulfill each wish and foster relationships with wish families. Wish granter volunteers must be 21 or older. The position is best suited for those with creative energy, entrepreneurial enthusiasm and the ability to give freely of their time.

Angels Among Us Pet Rescue Inc. Angelsrescue.org Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas including fostering animals, providing transportation, attending adoption events, screening applicants and helping to plan fundraisers.

Alpharetta First United Methodist Church is a vibrant, diverse family of faith located in downtown Alpharetta, Georgia. We come together for dynamic worship, inspiring music, friendship and impactful Christian education.

Whether you’re exploring Christianity, struggling with life’s difficulties or looking for a church home, you are welcome here.

We have many opportunities to gather in friendship, and we are committed to serving others in our community and around the world.

Join us on Sunday mornings for worship and check us out!

Sunday Morning at Alpharetta Methodist • Traditional Worship: 8:15 and 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary Alpharetta Methodist’s traditional worship services are rich with music, creeds and prayers.

Join us as we gather to praise God and celebrate the good news of His love. The Chancel Choir and other ensembles provide a variety of music.

• The Bridge Worship: 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary The Bridge is a meaningful and renewing experience that spans traditional and contemporary worship. Expect a Christcentered hour of worship that includes prayer, scripture readings, and traditional creeds and affirmations done in a new way.

Nashville Christian recording artist Stephanie Newton and

the Vinebranch Band provide contemporary music.

• Vinebranch Contemporary Worship: 11 a.m. in Vinebranch Chapel Vinebranch is Alpharetta Methodist’s contemporary worship service, where you can encounter God and find strength and encouragement on your journey of faith. This service offers creative music and multimedia in a casual setting, with a Wesleyan emphasis on strong Biblical preaching, sacraments and service to the world. The Vinebranch Band, under the leadership of Christian recording artist Stephanie Newton, leads the congregation in dynamic worship through modern songs and hymns.

• Small Groups: 8:15, 9:30 and 11 a.m.

Alpharetta Methodist offers Sunday morning groups for all adults — young, single, married or in various other stages of life.

These small groups provide a way for everyone to grow in the knowledge and love of God by learning, serving, praying and doing life together. Learn more at afumc.org/sundaygroups.

• Children: Child care and classes are available while adults are in worship or small groups. Visit afumc.org/childsunday for the complete schedule of children’s Sunday morning programs.

• Students:

AROUND TOWN

Alpharetta Methodist welcomes you to a family of faith

Students in grades 6-12 meet for Thirst, a Bible study, Sundays at 9:30 a.m. They also gather at 6 p.m. on Sunday evenings (during the school year) for [lit], a worship service designed especially for youth.

Learn more at afumc.org/youth.

Come open your heart to the good news of Christ and join in the community of friends that make church a pleasure, grow in your faith and roll up your sleeves to help others. We look forward to welcoming you to Alpharetta Methodist!

Alpharetta First United Methodist Church 69 North Main St., Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 770-470-5576 afumc.org | Facebook: alpharetta. methodist | Instagram: alpharetta. methodist | Twitter: alpharettafumc Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 53

AROUND TOWN

Fast-growing Forsyth County encourages ‘friends and family’ lifestyle Lennar Atlanta’s Family-Friendly Neighborhoods Are Integral to County’s Success

Forsyth County has the wind in its sails. Located about 40 miles northeast of Atlanta, the area has grown rapidly over the last decade thanks to its rich blend of both commercial and recreational opportunities – and thanks to well-built, well-priced housing for families, single professionals and active adults, including a variety of new home communities by Lennar Atlanta.

The county’s recognition by Forbes Magazine’s as one of the “Best Places in America to Get Ahead,” its highly ranked public schools, easy access to Atlanta and its world-class airport, and the county’s desirable quality of life thanks to its location near Lake Lanier, many lush parks and the North Georgia mountains, have attracted many families, businesses, shopping venues and restaurants. “It’s a great place to grow families and make new friends,” says Rose Humphrey, Marketing Manager with Lennar Atlanta.

Quality of Life: The sparkling jewel of the area is Lake Lanier, a 37,000-acre man-made lake created by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, great for fishing, boating, camping, water skiing and swimming.

In addition, Forsyth County counts more than 15 popular parks including Sawnee Mountain Preserve, consisting of 963 acres of green space, hiking trails and an interactive visitors’ center. Outdoor enthusiasts further appreciate the Big Creek Greenway, a 6.8-mile, 12-foot boardwalk and concrete path that is popular with cyclists, runners - and young families with strollers and tricycles.

Family Life: Forsyth’s new families are particularly impressed with the excellent Forsyth County school system. Many others have moved here from other parts of the country to accept new jobs with successful Forsyth County-based businesses including Scientific Games and Tyson Foods.

Great Schools: The Forsyth County School Dis54 | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | Sponsored Section

trict includes highly ranked public schools. In its recent 2016 listing, U.S. News and World Report included three Forsyth County high schools in Georgia’s top ten list. The area also offers a number of well-regarded private schools and academies, while there are many arts organizations that bring culture and entertainment to the area.

Lennar Atlanta, a division of Lennar (NYSE: LEN), one of the leading national homebuilders in the U.S., continues to build beautiful new homes in neighborhoods near outstanding elementary, middle and high schools all through the Atlanta region. In Forsyth County, Lennar Atlanta offers Blackstone, Dogwood Park and Wildbrooke (South Forsyth High School), Harrison Park (Lambert High School), and Bethelwood Lakes, Bridgehampton, Townes at Bridgehampton and Danbury Farms (West Forsyth High School).

“We have set a new standard for family living in Forsyth,” says Rose Humphrey, Marketing Manager with Lennar Atlanta. “Our construction is top notch, our neighborhoods are in great locations and served by some of the finest schools in the state, and the amenities that we offer are just not found in many other new home communities in the area.”

Since opening its Georgia headquarters in July 2010, Lennar Atlanta has built over 1,800 new homes in more than 35 communities throughout Georgia.

For more information about new homes in Cumming and throughout Forsyth County, as well as other wellcrafted homes and centrally located communities offered

by Lennar Atlanta throughout the metro Atlanta area, call 404-931-7462 or visit www.LennarAtlanta.com.

Brought to you by: Dr. Jeffrey Jordan of Jordan Orthodontics

The person you entrust to provide your orthodontic care will deliver the smile that will be with you for important events like a first date, high school graduation, your wedding day, and from the beginning of your career until the end. This is an important decision!

If you know what to look for in an Orthodontist, it can help make a difficult search easier.

An Orthodontist is a specialist, trained in aligning the teeth and jaws, usually a top graduate from dental school, completing an additional two to three years of rigorous training.

This instruction makes him or her uniquely qualified to deliver a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime. Only an Orthodontist can be a member of the American Association of Orthodontist or be a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics.

So, look for the logo, making sure you’re getting an Orthodontist!

An Orthodontist with a full time practice is more likely to be available for the reality of poking wires, broken brackets, or any other emergency situations that need to be addressed.

Over the course of your treatment, your Orthodontist will evaluate your bite at each appointment, making the continuum of care unbroken. You will want to find an Orthodontist that offers convenient office hours, including after school appointments. You will see your Orthodontist often; so, compatibility is important.

Today, there are a variety of treatment options, but only an Orthodontist has the training and expertise to design a plan to achieve your desired smile. Ceramic braces deliver the esthetics of clear braces with the functionality of metal braces. For bite problems that previously required braces, Invisalign is available. Invisalign does the software imaging and the manufacturing process, but you need a qualified, certified, experienced Orthodontist to achieve great results!

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Choosing your Orthodontist

Here are a few helpful questions when interviewing an Orthodontist: 1. What needs to be done?

2. What are my options?

3. What are the consequences if I don’t do the treatment now?

4. How long will the treatment take?

5. What are your office hours?

6. How long have you been in practice?

7. How much will this cost?

8. How is the treatment cost determined?

Whether you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself, your child or just someone you love, an Orthodontist will guide you through the process, align your teeth, correct your bite, and create a smile that you love. The laughter is up to you!

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Jordan today 770-751-1240

Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 55

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A lot to offer in Roswell

Whether you love history, culture, the peacefulness of the great outdoors, or the excitement of entertainment, Roswell, GA is the place to be.

At the heart of the historic district you’ll find Canton Street (an officially designated Georgia Great Street) with its shops, art galleries, acclaimed restaurants and sidewalk cafes.

The Third Thursday of each month from April – October, brings the “best street party in metro Atlanta,” Alive in Roswell to Canton Street and the Historic Town Square.

Daily tours are available at Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation. Known as the Southern Trilogy, these three museum homes

tell the authentic story of the American South.

Ghost Walks lead by paranormal investigators focus on the toilsome tales of the mill village and the stories of ghosts said to dwell behind the mansion walls. Brewery tours by Gate City Brewery and Abbey of the Holy Goats add to the charm and energy that is Roswell.

Look for the opening of Variant to join the mix in late 2016.

Colorful art galleries provide opportunities to “meet the artists.”

Artistic expression in paintings, sculpture, fiber, pottery, photography, wood, glass and clay define Roswell’s character. Art Festivals, First Friday Art Walks and a variety of special events, exhibits and activities fill the calendar.

Performing arts add to the fabric. From the casual Riverside Sounds Concert Series to toe-tapping and classical performances, a lively music scene abounds. Renowned Georgia Ensemble Theatre presents professional productions from its home in Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Dance, puppet shows, storytelling and living history reenactments are all part of Roswell’s vibrant and diverse arts community.

Award-winning restaurants make Roswell a true “foodies” destination. Over 200 Independent Restaurants call Roswell home. Recharge with a delicious meal then hike, stroll or explore the area by canoe, kayak or raft. Hike across the covered pedestrian bridge into the Chattahoochee River National

The Premier Resource for Johns Creek businesses to connect, grow and thrive.

The Johns Creek Chamber is a member led organization through a number of committees that work together to attract, support and grow businesses in Johns Creek.

Weekly Networking Monthly Business After Hours Monthly Breakfast Meeting Annual Golf Classic Annual Gala Annual Business Expo

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770.495.0545 56 | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | Sponsored Section

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Recreation Area or visit the Chattahoochee Nature Center where you will see wildlife, wildflower gardens, a marsh boardwalk, and woodland trails.

An officially designated Bicycle

Friendly Community, during the year you’ll find bicycle races, rides, and activities that are fun for the entire family.

Planning a special occasion?

Just one call to the Roswell Visi-

tors Bureau takes the stress and worry out of planning the perfect wedding, family or school reunion, mitzvahs, or corporate retreat. With so many premier, one-of-a-kind event facilities, friendly and accommodating lodging, and experienced professionals, it makes sense that Roswell, GA, is ‘The Place’ to celebrate with family and friends.

History, culture and Southern hospitality—it’s all here, set against a backdrop of natural splendors and with the modern amenities that will make your occasion an experience to remember.

To begin your excursion of Roswell, stop by the Roswell Visitor Center, 617 Atlanta Street. Here you will receive a friendly welcome, view a short video and receive printed materials to help you enjoy your Roswell experience. www. visitroswellga.com or 800-776-7935

Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 57

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Easy curb appeal

One of the easiest, but often overlooked, enhancements to a house to improve the curb appeal is to add or update your exterior shutters. Historically exterior shutters served a purpose by offering light control, ventilation and protection from the elements. Today exterior shutters are mostly decorative.

“Exterior shutters add the finishing touch to a house,” says Hennie DuPreez, CEO of Dupbel Millworks Inc. “But it is important that they are appropriately sized and look like they are supposed to be there.”

Styles: Dupbel Millworks Inc. is set up to create unique custom styles while offering a variety of

standard styles to choose from.

Board and Batten: A shutter composed of three to five vertical boards that are connected using two or three horizontal battens.

These shutters inspire a country or cottage look and have grown in popularity in the last few years.

The latest trend is to have multiple narrow boards to create a cleaner, more sophisticated look.

Raised Panel: A Raised Panel shutter is made of panels that fit into a frame. The panels have raised sides to create depth and interest.

Raised Panel styled shutters are the new “traditional” over louvered.

Found on many Colonial, Georgian, Federal, or Manor style homes with brick or siding being the primary

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face material. Raised Panel shutters on homes of this type create a classic appearance. The shutter style’s popularity during the last number of decades has firmly entrenched the raised panel style as the “traditional look.” The solid three dimensional characteristics of the raised panel shutters provide a substantial presence on homes.

Shaker Raised: Shaker Raised shutters generate a sharp, crisp appearance versus the classical raised panel style. This shutter style acquired its name from the no frills, yet functional design standards of the Shaker religious community. The shutters rails, stiles and panels are fabricated square with no ornate profiles

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approach to exterior added. This shutter type shutters. The clean, well is an excellent choice defined vertical lines will for brick or stucco faced compliment your house homes where you want and windows, while to ensure the lines and breaking the monotonous features of the shutters horizontal lines that you are clearly visible from a get on a traditional brick distance. or siding house. Definitely Louvered: Louvered styled shutters Hennie DuPreez something to consider if you don’t like the robust look of are the original “classic a Board and Batten shutter, but were standard,” found on period buildput off by the sometimes “flat” look of ings such as Antebellum, Colonial, Williamsburg, Georgian and Federal a Raised Panel. The Mission Panel style provides a very elegant look, styled houses. Louvered shutters breaking away from traditional shutter create an additional architectural designs. element to enhance the house’s facade. Louvered shutters can also Dupbel Millworks Inc. manufacbe the right choice for Contempotures exteriors shutters using only rary styled buildings wishing to creweather resistant materials. Our ate a more traditional appearance. core business is shutters made Mission: A combination of from a composite wood material a Board and Batten shutter and a that is rot, insect and weather repaneled design, providing a fresh

sistant. This is especially important in Georgia’s hot, humid conditions.

Although we carry a series of shutters styles, we are fully equipped to help you design the specific look you desire, and every shutters is custom made based on your house, windows and design.

We use your house as our showroom, knowing very well how difficult it can be to see what a specific style of shutter will do the look of your home. We come to your house with samples and will help you to choose the perfect style of shutter for your house. Our business is located in Alpharetta, Ga. and we are proud to serve the residential and commercial market of North Georgia. We are small enough to provide you with personal attention, yet strong enough to handle complex designs and the volume from our commercial customers.

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Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 59

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Fulton Science Academy Private School Innovation, Excellence, Character Fulton Science Academy Private School offers students of Georgia a real difference in education. FSAPS serves a high population of advanced and gifted students in Pre-K through High School. FSAPS provides its students the opportunity to grow, learn, and play in an environment conducive to fostering academic growth. They have developed a high quality advanced academic program emphasizing S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) curriculum.

FSAPS’s environment is structured to minimize distractions and stress, while optimizing work ethic, self-initiative, good character qualities, and well-developed social skills.

They limit class size to a maximum of 18 students for Pre-K 60 | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | Sponsored Section

through 5th grade and 20 students for 6th grade and up allowing for focused individualized student attention. The small and structured environment, along with uniforms, keeps students focused on their studies. Since there are little to no discipline issues, the faculty and administration can utilize their time to teach and continually seek ways to improve their educational model.

The school considers development of the whole student as important as academics. Physical education is a part of every school day to keep students healthy and active. For a creative outlet, students take part in art, music, robotics, and computer classes every week. Many other enrichment opportunities are offered including free after-school clubs, band,

orchestra, and top performing academic teams to develop student social skills.

FSAPS is proud to have some of Georgia’s strongest academic teams. After a very successful competition season at the state level, FSAPS represents Georgia in five different national and/or global events this year. These events are: • National Science Olympiad, Nebraska • National MathCounts, Washington D.C. • North American First Lego League, California • Global Destination Imagination, Tennessee • International Model United Nations, New York

FSAPS has engineered a school of the future today. www.fultonscienceacademy.org

Baseball: Wills Park boasts eight baseball diamonds and two tee-ball fields and hosts games for the Alpharetta Youth Baseball Association. Visit www.alpharettayouthbaseball.org for more information on the AYBA and its schedules.

Disc Golf: Disc golf is a growing sport. Wills Park has an 18-hole disc golf course, included in the Professional Disc Gold Association with more than 1000 other courses throughout the U.S. Call 678-2976162 for more information on the course and suggested equipment.

Swimming: Alpharetta City Pool amenities include an Olympic-size pool, diving well with low/ medium/high diving boards, a 2000 sq. ft. splash pad, shaded and open deck areas, and a concession stand. Open hours through Aug. 9 are 12noon-5pm (Tu-Fr), 7:309pm (Tu-Th), 10am-8pm (Sa), and noon-8pm (Su). Special holiday hours are held on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Swim lessons are also available to swimmers of all levels and ages.

For information on aquatic programs, call 678-297-6100.

Equestrian Center: Horse shows, dog agility, special events, and corporate rentals are all hosted at the Equestrian Center throughout the year. Accommodations include eight shed row-type barns with covered aisles and 298 stalls, one covered ring 150 x 350 ft., two uncovered rings 125 x 225 ft., two schooling rings, and hookups for

30 RV campers. Call the center at 678297-6120.

Tennis: The park has six tennis courts, lighted at night. Two courts are saved for lessons, two are used by reservation only, and two are firstcome first-serve. Play is at no cost, although there is a court reservation fee. Call 678-297-6130 for tennis information.

Recreation Center: Wills Park Recreation Center offers pickleball, basketball, karate, fitness programs (Club Vibe, step aerobics, Pilates, yoga, weight training) and a summer day camp for youth. For program and registration information, contact 678-297-6130 or wprcprograms@alpharetta.ga.us.

Community Center: Alpharetta Community Center amenities include two gymnasiums, a gymnastics center, dance room, an outdoor walking track, and a tree climbing program. The center hosts the Alpharetta Gymnastics Academy, Rhythm ‘n Shoes dance program, Viper Volleyball and other teen/adult athletic programs. For program and registration information, contact 678-297-6100 or accprograms@alpharetta.ga.us.

Dog Park: Waggy World Paw Park is a park area designed for dogs to explore and play off leash.

It is open 8am to sunset and has areas for larger or smaller ca-

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Wills Park offers activities and amenities

nines. All handlers are required to pick up after their pets and there is a limit of three dogs per handler.

A dog handler must be a least 16 years old and have a leash present. No dogs in heat and no aggressive dogs are allowed at the park. All dogs must wear valid rabies tags and have current vaccinations. In addition, children must be 8 years or older and accompanied by an adult to enter the pet play area.

Playgrounds, Park Area: Wills Park offers three different children’s playgrounds all nestled under park trees. Wacky World is the largest, a wooden castle-style play space with towers, slides and bridges. Designed for smaller children, the Yellow Playground below the recreation center has slides, swings and a tire spin. Behind the baseball fields is the Purple Playground with multi-level slides, swings, climbing areas and a canopy overtop. There is also a walking trail for park-goers of all ages.

And finally, five picnic pavilions are scattered throughout the park, the largest of which can accommodate up to 200 people, while the others can serve up to 30. To reserve a pavilion for a picnic, family outing, birthday party or corporate function, call 678-297-6130.

Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 61

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Towne Club Windermere signals a new era of Senior Living

Towne Club Windermere is more than the area’s most anticipated new senior living community.

It represents what retirement living of the future is destined to be.

From the moment you walk through the impressive front doors, you’ll sense something different: a perfect blend of luxurious design, customer-first services, and a strong focus on wellness supported by the latest technology and programs.

Simply put, you feel like you’re in a resort. That’s the Club Lifestyle.

Step inside the clubhouse and join friends around the main living room’s piano. Drift outside to the patio for a view of the sunset. Drop by the cocktail lounge for laughter and companionship. Afterwards, print out your boarding pass for an

62 | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | Sponsored Section

upcoming trip in the media center.

Or have the concierge arrange concert tickets for you.

Maybe you’d like to curl up on your couch with the Apple iPad® you received from Towne Club Windermere when you moved in. It’s a great way to stay connected with what’s going on inside and outside the community. (Your grandchildren will be impressed!) Keeping residents connected and engaged is very important at Towne Club Windermere, as research shows that ongoing interaction with others can re-energize a senior’s life, and in fact is one of the most vital dimensions of wellness.

And speaking of wellness, you’d expect a resort-style community to offer multiple opportunities for staying active and healthy, and Towne Club Windermere does not disappoint. The community’s Fitness and Wellness Center is always buzzing with activity. Classes, senior-friendly strength equipment, and expert instruction all are available.

Take a dip in the outdoor saltwater pool.

Try yoga or Tai chi. Follow your workout with a restorative massage in the inviting spa.

Maybe there’s a jazz concert this evening under Towne Club’s poolside pavilion. Sitting outdoors

on a clear evening, watching the stars while you listen to live music with friends, you really can imagine you’re on vacation…or on a cruise ship!

Tomorrow might include a special excursion on the community van to a popular destination. Or you might head out on your own to nearby Lake Lanier, or for a round of golf or few sets of tennis. The days, and the evenings, are yours to enjoy. You’re separated from the demands of everyday life, but you’re still in touch with everything that’s going on.

In addition to the many perks of the Club lifestyle, a major benefit is the peace of mind residents have knowing assisted living and memory care also are available on-site.

Both reflect the same commitment to excellence found throughout the community, with care and attention geared toward the lifelong wellness of each individual.

“Towne Club Windermere has been designed to serve as a gathering place for all ages,” says Towne Club Executive Director LaDonna Hagan. “We truly believe our services, amenities, and programs will inspire everyone to live a longer, healthier life.”

Call (770) 844-7779 or visit TowneClubWindermere.com to learn more.

Brought to you by: Peter Benedetto and Riccardo Apreda of Tuscany Fine Furnishings When searching for a home or renovating their own space, clients are looking more and more for a home with an open concept. A space that has a nice flow, one that is great for entertaining and also reveals an updated look. Homes with kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms that are open into one another create an environment where family and guests are very comfortable. Open spaces can become a challenge to decorate and place furnishing without a vision and a plan for the space.

How will the spaces be used?

What will separate the living areas?

These are often asked questions, here are a few suggestions when it comes to decorating open spaces, it is essential that you provide some kind of a visual and barrier definition to the different spaces. Rugs are always a good way to easily define different parts of the same area. There are many colors, styles, patterns and textures to choose from which will enhance your room and its furnishings. Selecting different flooring materials also separates one space from another.

Tiles are always good choices for foyers and kitchens, they can be laid in a variety of ways forming designs from the simple to the elaborate. Hardwood floors also define space by framing and area with inlaid boarder and center. Simply changing the direction of the

Peter Bendetto

Riccardo Apreda

way floor boards are laid from one area to another creates the illusion of a separate space. They are also very easy to maintain in areas with a lot of traffic.

Another way to accomplish a space definition is varying ceiling heights. Two story great rooms with beamed or coffered ceilings often transitions a large room into several separate living spaces. Tray ceilings in a dining area or bedroom create divisions in the space. Lighting is also very important to set off different areas in the same room. A row of pendants on a kitchen island or a beautiful chandelier hung over the eating area which opens to another living space immediately creates a visual division.

Strategically placing your furniture can also separate and provide barriers in an open space.

Table lamps and floor lamps placed appropriately create a deliberate separation in an area. Open shelving units work well as room dividers, objects placed on the shelve can be viewed from either side without completely obstructing the view. Floating a sofa can provide a passage way between spaces, placing a console table behind it provide visual interest as well as a place to add lighting. The

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Defining an open space‌.

same effect can be achieved by floating a pair of chairs with a table between them.

Painting your walls with different colors can give you the illusion of separation between rooms, be cautious many mistakes are made by choosing strong contrasting colors, choose instead subtle complementing shades of the same color. Texturing a wall with wall paper or stacked stone it is another possibility.

Open spaces can be made cozy and comfortable, great places for family and friends to gather when careful effort is put into the planning.

Peter Benedetto and Riccardo Apreda are both accomplished, award winning Interior Designers, with Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Offering Life Style Fine Furnishings, Decorative Accessories and Design Services for Every Room in Your Home! 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. in Roswell, 770-993-0640 ext. 2, Showroom hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 p.m. Sun. 1-5 p.m. or Shop our collections online at,

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Sponsored Section | Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 63

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SANDY SPRINGS

1. Crooked Creek Club 3430 Highway Nine N. Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.475.2300 alpharettaac.com 2. Ansley Golf Club, Settindown 1605 Settindown Drive Roswell, GA 30075 770.640.4620 ansleygolfclub.org

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5. Brookfield Country Club 100 Willow Run, Roswell, GA 30075 770.993.1990 brookfieldcountryclub.com 6. Capital City Club, Crabapple 4115 Earney Road Woodstock, GA 30188 770.667.6303 capitalcitclub.org

3. Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.448.2166 atlantaathleticclub.org

7. 7. Cherokee Town & Country Club 665 Hightower Trail Atlanta, Georgia 303501710 , 770.993.4407 cherokeetcc.org

4. Atlanta National Golf Club 350 Tournament Players Drive Milton, GA 30004 770.442.8801, atlantanationalgolfclub.com

8. Country Club of the South 4100 Old Alabama Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 770.475.1803 clubcorp.com/ Clubs/Country-Club-of-the-South

64 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

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9. Echelon Golf Club 501 Founders Dr E Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.888.4653 echelonliving.com 10. The Golf Club of Georgia 1 Golf Club Dr Alpharetta, GA 30005 770.664.8644 golfclubofgeorgia.com 11. Hawks Ridge Golf Club 1100 Hawks Club Drive Ball Ground, GA 30107 770.205.6889 hawksridge.com 12. Horseshoe Bend Country Club 2057 Steeplechase Ln Roswell, GA 30076 770.992.2310 horseshoebendcc.com 13. Lanier Golf Club 2080 Buford Dam Rd Cumming, GA 30041 770.887.6114 laniergolfclub.com

15. Milton Country Club 1785 Dinsmore Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.475.2300 alpharettaac.com 16. Polo Golf & Country Club 6300 Polo Club Drive Cumming, GA 30040 770.887.7656, pologolfandcountryclub.com 17. River Pines Golf 4775 Old Alabama Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 770.442.5960 riverpinesgolf.com 18. Rivermont Golf & Country Club 3130 Rivermont Pkwy Alpharetta, GA 30022 770.993.2124, rivermontcountryclub.com 19. Standard Club 6230 Abbotts Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.497.0055 standardclub.org 20. St. Ives Country Club 1 St Ives Country Club Dr Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.623.1239 stivescountryclub.org 21. St Marlo Country Club 7755 St Marlo Country Club Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097 770.495.7725, stmarlo.com 22. Trophy Club of Atlanta 15135 Hopewell Rd Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.343.9700 americangolf.com/trophyclub-atlanta 23. White ColumnsCountry Club 300 Clubhouse Dr Milton, GA 30004; 770.343.9025 whitecolumnscountryclub. com 24. Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Dr Cumming, GA 30041 678.513.1000, canongategolf.com 25. Woodmont Golf Country Club 3105 Gaddis Rd. Canton, GA 30115 770.345.9260 woodmontgolfclub.com

MARTA keeps focus on North Fulton commuters

By PATRICK FOX MARTA’s bid to extend rail service through North Fulton suffered a blow this year when several cities opposed committing funds from a countywide sales tax to the effort. But the transit system isn’t pulling up stakes and has plans in the works to enhance and increase its bus service to the area.

“We’re currently discussing with all the municipalities up there expanding the bus service further,” said Benjamin Limmer, assistant general manager of planning at MARTA. “This would include more local service that runs east and west connecting Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Roswell and Alpharetta with the Ga. 400 corridor.”

In addition, Limmer said the transit company is exploring ways to initiate express bus service to run from sites in North Fulton to the North Springs rail station in Sandy Springs and other points along the system.

Limmer said the company continues to evaluate all transit options in North Fulton, adding that the disagree-

ment over sales tax options this spring merely means not all cities consider rail their best option at this time.

“A lot of the discussion revolved around what were the best transit solutions for all corners of the county,” he said. “There were a couple of cities in North Fulton – it’s not that they were for this, for that, they felt that we needed to continue to study the options for rail and bus to make sure that the transit solution identified would be most appropriate for North Fulton.”

At the same time, MARTA has linked up with Uber to provide riders with first- and last-mile connectivity from stations, said spokeswoman Alisa Jackson.

“One of the cool things we also have is, if you have the MARTA on the Go App, you can actually connect to Uber from that app,” she said. “You can order Uber while on the train and have it waiting for you when you get there.”

Last spring, the company started piloting Wi-Fi on buses, so that today, many buses on all lines have the wireless service. Plans are ongoing to make Wi-Fi available on all trains on all routes, she said.

Limmer said North Fulton has plenty of employment and recreational draws to make MARTA relevant to the area.

“We are very interested in connecting folks in North Fulton, tourists and residents alike,” he said.

After a trip to India meeting 80 school children who had no desk, Maya inspired her class to initiate the MORE THAN A DESK project that provides resources for those eager to learn. See MORE THAN A DESK video under the news tab on our website.

KINGSRIDGECS.ORG

Pre-K thru 12th Grade

King’s Ridge Christian School practices a non-discriminatory policy of admission.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 65

YMCA The Ed Isakson/Alpharetta YMCA, 3655 Preston Ridge Rd., is a full-service facility dedicated to serving Alpharetta and North Fulton residents of all ages with a broad range of programming to meet the needs of our community. The YMCA, or ‘Y’ as it’s commonly referred to, is a place where everyone can belong – a welcoming, values-centered environment, a place to build lasting friendships and a place to connect with and serve the community.

Children and youth programs and services include after school care, summer day camp, swim lessons, youth sports and wellness programs.

Families can relax and play together at the indoor and outdoor pools, in the gym and participate in a variety of fun66 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

has something for everyone

filled special events. Through the Advanced Leadership Academy and Leaders Club, teens will have opportunities to sharpen their leadership skills, explore their interests and learn the value of service to others.

Adults and seniors will find a community of caring and compassionate staff eager to help members set and achieve individual wellness goals. Beginning exercisers will benefit from The Coach Approach, an evidence-based program designed to keep users on-track. The Y also offers a wide variety of group exercise classes including yoga, indoor cycling, boot camp and water exercise.

Get more information at www.ymcaatlanta.org/iay.

See you at the Y!

There are two local YMCAs located in North Fulton and Forsyth counties: Ed Isakson/ Alpharetta YMCA 3655 Preston Ridge Rd Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-664-1220 Forsyth County Family YMCA 6050 Y Street Cumming, GA 30040 770-888-2788

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Medical 2015 – 2016

Answer Book

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Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 67

SMIT

TE R

RD

H RD

BA NN IS

MOUNT TABOR RD

PARKS + REC

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DR. BRAMBLETT RD

HEARDSVILLE RD

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CUMMING

CANTON HWY

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MILL RD

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KELLY MILL RD

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Alpharetta Parks

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BETHANY RD

5

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Forsyth County Parks

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Roswell Parks

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Alpharetta Parks (678) 297-6100

11

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SANDY SPRINGS

1. Alpharetta Adult Center 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta

L RD

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Johns Creek Parks

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2. Alpharetta Community Center 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta

RD

5

3. Cogburn Road Park (5 acres) 12825 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta 4. Crabapple Government Center/Arts Center 12624 Broadwell Road, Alpharetta

LEGEND Arboretum

Football Fields

Playground

Arts/Crafts Rooms

Garden

Pool

Bandstand

Gymnasium

Skate Park

Baseball Fields

Historic Monuments

Soccer Fields

Basketball Courts

Hockey Rink

Softball Fields

Camping Area

Lacrosse Fields

Stables, Show Rings

Disc Golf Course

Meeting Rooms

Tennis Courts

Docks/ Decks

Multi-purpose Courts

Volleyball Courts

Dog Park

Picnic Pavilion/ Tables

Walking Trails/ Paths

68 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

5. North Park (109 acres) 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta 6. Rock Mill Park 3100 Kimball Bridge Road, Alpharetta 7. Union Hill Park (12 acres) 1590 Little Pine Trail, Alpharetta 8. Webb Bridge Park (190 acres) 4780 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta

9. Wills Park (120 acres) 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta

10. W ills Park Recreation Center 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta 11. Windward Soccer Facility (3 acres) 6435 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta

Forsyth Parks: (770) 781-2215 • forsythco.com

Johns Creek Parks: (678) 512-3200 • johnscreekga.com

1. Bennet Park (29 acres) 5930 Burruss Mill Road, Cumming

1. Autrey Mill (46 acre) 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek

2. Caney Creek Preserve (63 acres) 2755 Caney Road, Cumming 3. Central Park (85 acres) 2300 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming 4. Charleston Park (154 acres) 5850 Charleston Park Road, Cumming 5. Chattahoochee Pointe (100 acres) 5790 Chattahoochee Pointe Drive, Suwanee 6. Chestatee Community Building (3 acres) 6875 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville 7. Coal Mountain Park (26 acres) 3560 Settingdown Road, Cumming 8. Ducktown Park (6 acres) 5895 Heardsville Road, Cumming 9. Fowler Park (85 acres) 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming 10. Haw Creek Park (85 acres) 2205 Echols Road, Cumming 11. Joint Venture Park (16 acres) 3660 Melody Mizer Lane, Cumming

2. Newtown Park (46 acres) 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek 3. Ocee Park (37 acres) 10900 Buice Road, Johns Creek 4. Shakerag Park (66 acres) 10945 Rogers Circle, Johns Creek

Roswell Parks (770) 641-3705 • roswellgov.com 1. Azalea Park (80.95 acres) 203 Azalea Drive, Roswell 2. Big Creek Park (161.1 acres) 1600 Old Alabama Road, Roswell 3. Don White Memorial Park (1.5 acres) 925 Riverside Road, Roswell

4. East Roswell Park (69.8 acres) 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell

5. Garrard Landing Park (22 acres) 8000 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta

12. Midway Park (40 acres) 5100 Post Road, Cumming

6. Grimes Bridge Park (11.3 acres) 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell

13. Old Atlanta Park ( 39 acres) 810 Nichols Road, Suwanee

7. Hembree Park (34.5 acres) 850 Hebree Road, Roswell

14. Poole’s Mill Park (10 acres) 7725 Poole’s Mill Road, Ballground 15. Sawnee Mountain Park (44 acres) 3995 Watson Road, Cumming 16. Sawnee Mountain Preserve (963 acres) 2500 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming 17. Shady Grove Campground (107 acres) 7800 Sharon Road, Cumming 18. Sharon Springs Park (58 acres) 1950 Sharon Road, Cumming 19. South Forsyth Soccer Complex (31 acres) 800 Kemp Road, Suwanee 20. Windermere Park (118 acres) 3355 Windermere Parkway, Cumming 21. Young Deer Creek Park (14 acres) 7300 Heard Road, Cumming

Milton Parks (678) 297-2489 • cityofmiltonga.us 1. Bell Memorial Park (18 acres) 15245 Bell Park Road, Milton

8. Lake Charles Park (0.5 acres) 195 Windflower Court, Roswell 9. Leita Thompson Memorial Park (141.9 acres) 1200 Woodstock Road, Roswell 10. Old Mill Park (42.8 acres) 75 Sloan St., Roswell 11. Riverside Park (20 acres) 575 Riverside Road, Roswell 12. Roswell Area Park (79.6 acres) 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell 13. Roswell River Landing (2.5 acres) 245 Azalea Drive, Roswell 14. Sweet Apple Park (8.152) 11850 Crabapple Road, Roswell 15. Town Square Park (1 acre) 610 South Atlanta St., Roswell 16. Waller Park (16 acres) 250 Oak St., Roswell

2. Birmingham Park (200 acres) 750 Hickory Flat Road, Milton

17. Waller Park Extension (31.3 acres) 160 Dobbs Drive, Roswell

3. Friendship Community Park (1.81 acres) 12785 Birmingham Highway, Milton

18. Woodstock Soccer Complex Park (5 acres) 40 Woodstock Road, Roswell

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 69

Gov. OFFICIALS

ALPHARETTA David Belle Isle, Mayor 678-297-6020 dbelleisle@alpharetta.ga.us

Alpharetta City Hall 2 Park Plaza Alpharetta, GA 30009 678-297-6000 info@alpharetta.ga.us www.alpharetta.ga.us City Council members Donald Mitchell, Post 1 770-712-2290 dmitchell@alpharetta.ga.us

Chris Owens, Post 3 Mayor Pro Tem 404-518-5505 cowens@alpharetta.ga.us

Belle Isle

Jim Gilvin, Post 4 404-271-2716 jgilvin@alpharetta.ga.us Jason Binder, Post 5 jbinder@alpharetta.ga.us

Mitchell

Kennedy

Owens

Gilvin

Binder

Merkel

Zaprowski

Lin

Davenport

Gray

Endres

Broadbent

Dan Merkel, Post 6 dmerkel@alpharetta.ga.us

Mike Kennedy, Post 2 mkennedy@alpharetta.ga.us

JOHNS CREEK Mike Bodker, Mayor 678-512-3313 mike.bodker@johnscreekga.gov

Cori Davenport, Post 3 678-512-3200 cori.davenport@johnscreekga.gov

Johns Creek City Hall 12000 Findley Road, Suite 400 Johns Creek, Ga. 30092-1412 678-512-3200 info@johnscreekga.gov www.johnscreekga.gov

Bob Gray, Post 4 678-512-3200 bob.gray@johnscreekga.gov

Bodker

City Council members Lenny Zaprowski, Post 1 678-512-3200 lenny.zaprowski@johnscreekga.gov Jay Lin, Post 2 678-512-3200 jay.lin@johnscreekga.gov 70 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Stephanie Endres, Post 5 678-512-3200 Stephanie.endres@johnscreekga. gov Steve Broadbent, Post 6 Mayor Pro Tem 678-512-3200 steve.broadbent@johnscreekga.gov

Gov. OFFICIALS

CUMMING H. Ford Gravitt, Mayor Cumming City Hall 100 Main Street Cumming, Ga. 30040 (770)781-2010 www.cityofcumming.net

Gravitt

City Council members Charles F. Welch, Jr. Post 1 Quincy Holton, Post 2 Lewis Ledbetter, Post 3 Christopher Light, Post 4

Welch

Holton

Lewis Ledbetter

Light

Linda Ledbetter

Linda Ledbetter, Post 5

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Villageparkseniorliving.com Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 71

Gov. OFFICIALS

MILTON Joe Lockwood, Mayor 678-242-2484 joe.lockwood@ cityofmiltonga.us

Milton City Hall Deerfield Professional Centre 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 Milton, Ga. 30004 678-242-2500 info@cityofmiltonga.us www.cityofmiltonga.us City Council members Karen Thurman, District 1/Post 1 678-242-2493 karen.thurman@cityofmiltonga.us

Matt Kunz, District 2/Post 2 678-242-2494 matt.kunz@cityofmiltonga.us

Lockwood Bill Lusk, District 2/Post 1 678-242-2495 bill.lusk@cityofmiltonga.us Burt Hewitt, District 1/Post 2 678-242-2497 burt.hewitt@cityofmiltonga.us

Thurman

Kunz

Lusk

Hewitt

Longoria

Mohrig

Zapata

Palermo

Horton

Igleheart

Orlans

Diamond

Joe Longoria, District 3/Post 1 678-242-2498 joe.longoria@cityofmiltonga.us Rick Mohrig, District 3/Post 2 678-242-2496 rick.mohrig@cityofmiltonga.us

ROSWELL Jere Wood, Mayor 770-594-6288 mayorwood@roswellgov.com

Donald Horton, Post 3 770-641-3757 dhorton@roswellgov.com

Roswell City Hall 38 Hill Street Roswell, Ga. 20075 770-641-3727 info@roswellgov.com www.roswellgov.com

Kent Igleheart, Post 4 Mayor Pro Tem 770-641-3727 kigleheart@roswellgov.com

Wood

City Council members Marcelo Zapata, Post 1 770-641-3757 mzapata@roswellgov.com Mike Palermo, Post 2 770-641-3757 mpalermo@roswellgov.com 72 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Jerry Orlans, Post 5 770-641-3757 jorlans@roswellgov.com Nancy Diamond, Post 6 770-641-3757 ndiamond@roswellgov.com

Forsyth County Administration 110 East Main Street Cumming GA 30040 770-781-2101 http://www.forsythco.com/ContactUs Board of Commissioners R.J. (Pete) Amos Chairman, District 1 678-513-5881 rjamos@forsythco.com

Brian Tam Secretary, District 2 (678) 513-5882 brtam@forsythco.com

Gov. OFFICIALS

FORSYTH COUNTY Amos

Tam

Levent

Mills

Todd Levent, District 3 678-513-5883 tlevent@forsythco.com Cindy Jones Mills, Vice Chairman, District 4 678-513-5884 cjmills@forsythco.com

Boff

Jim Boff, District 5 678-513-5885 jjboff@forsythco.com

FULTON COUNTY Liz Hausmann District 1, Vice Chairman 404-612-8213 liz.hausmann@fultoncountyga.gov

Marvin Arrington, District 5 404-612-0200 marvin.arrington@fultoncountyga. gov

Bob Ellis, District 2 404-612-8216 bob.ellis@fultoncountyga.gov

Emma Darnell, District 6 404-612-8222 emma.darnell@fultoncountyga.gov

Lee Morris, District 3 404-612-8200 lee.morris@fultoncountyga.gov

John Eaves District 7 (At Large), Chairman 404-612-8206 john.eaves@fultoncountyga.gov

Joan Garner, District 4 404-612-8226 joan.garner@fultoncountyga.gov

Hausmann

Ellis

Morris

Garner

Darnell

Eaves

Arrington

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 73

CALENDAR

Alpharetta Brew Moon Festival Downtown Alpharetta Gather your friends and celebrate summer with beer, wine and delicious food from some of Alpharetta’s best restaurants.

Cost: Table of eight is $130, table of six is $100 and individual tickets are $10.

Taste of Alpharetta Downtown Alpharetta Taste of Alpharetta has become an annual tradition for festival-goers, families and food connoisseurs for 25 years. Make reservations on your calendar to dine in Historic Downtown Alpharetta at over 50 restaurants in one fun night.

Sample delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts from the top menus in town. Enjoy culinary demonstrations, activities and entertainment to please every palate. Free Admission.

Food tickets are $.50 each and restaurants participating in the Taste will charge $1-3 per food sample.

Music Stage will have harmonic rock/folk/R&B bands.

A separate Culinary Stage will pair top area chefs against one another in contests. Party with metro Atlanta radio stations. Play at the Fun Zones. Come out and enjoy Alpharetta’s premier dining experience!

Arts Streetfest May 28-30, 2016 Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.

– 6 p.m., Monday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Downtown Alpharetta, Rain or shine 74 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

Celebrate the arts at one of the city’s most popular events!

The streets of Historic Downtown will be closed as nearly 100 artists, musicians and performers from throughout the U.S. are showcased. Enjoy a beautiful spring weekend as you stroll through outdoor galleries filled with fine art in 14 medium expressions, create children’s art and experience live jazz, Celtic music, cultural dancing and more.

Admission and parking are free.

Forsyth County Senior Expo 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming

Old Soldiers Day Race and Parade Downtown Alpharetta

Thousands of visitors annually attend the Cumming Country Fair and Festival held at the Cumming Fairgrounds in October. In 2016, this 11-day event will kick off on Thursday, October 6. For more information, visit www.cummingfair.net.

This event is rain or shine.

Join us for the Old Soldiers Day Parade and Road Race attracting over 8,000 people each year.

The 5K and 10K road race rolls through town and finishes right before the downtown ceremonies and parade that recognizes the living memory of all veterans of war. Along with the program and parade, this celebration also features floats, bands, entertainment, children’s activities, and prizes.

Forsyth Play at the Park Family Fun Festival Early fall, Fowler Park Forsyth County Parks and Recreation annually hosts the Play at the Park Family Fun Festival in September. The festival features a variety of family-friendly entertainment and activities. For more information, visit http://www.forsythforfamilies.com/tag/fowler-park/.

Forsyth County Senior Services annually hosts the Forsyth Senior Expo at the Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College. The Senior Expo is an opportunity for senior citizens as well as their families and friends to learn about planning for the future.

Country Fair and Festival 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming

Johns Creek The Johns Creek Arts Festival The Johns Creek Arts Festival has quickly become one of the great outdoor events in Johns Creek and North Fulton.

The area will come alive with more than 100 whimsical and fun artisans from around the country.

This is the perfect venue to showcase the talented artisans who will exhibit their paintings, pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry, yard art and many more goodies. The annual fall celebration of the arts will certainly be a shoppers’ paradise, and there will be local musical and dancing talent to add color to the event. Come to see and be seen.

The Fall Family Festival Fall Family Festival & Public Works ‘Touch-A-Truck’ features music, games, activities, art & crafts, moonwalks, giant slides, obstacle course and much more.

It is also the last chance to visit the city’s Farmers Market and it all happens at fun-filled Newtown Park. It is a celebration of the last beautiful days of fall. There are lots to eat and fun for the family.

The City’s Public Works ‘TouchA-Truck’ is always a treat for the little ones. The city provides an up-close view of bulldozers, backhoes, public safety vehicles and other cool machines, such as those for road improvements and traffic signal operations.

Founders Day Parade The annual Founders Day Parade is a special celebration of the city’s incorporation simply because the founding of the city was in their lifetimes. Most of the residents who take part in the parade were here in 2006 so they are the founding fathers, mothers and children of Johns Creek.

So expect the brass bands to blare from all the high schools as they march by and hear the people cheer as the floats go past.

Some of the parade highlights include local neighborhoods with proud banners, schools, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, community organizations, civic clubs, and businesses.

CALENDAR

Brew Moon Festival

Milton

Milton Hometown Jubilee Early spring Milton’s Hometown Jubilee promises a lot of fun and hometown pride for Milton residents.

Come enjoy dishes and signature cocktails from local restaurants. The event will be held on Broadwell Road in front of the new pavilion.

Farmer’s Market and Food Trucks At the market shoppers can expect fresh local produce, baked goods, honey, crafts, and much more - complete with a sumptuous assortment of food trucks and nightly entertainment.

Crabapple Fest Early October The City of Milton and non-profit Crabapple Community Association (CCA) combine to put on one massive destination festival. Crabapple Fest features antiques and art vendors, music and entertainment, children’s activities, and beer and wine on festival grounds.

Roswell

Riverside Sounds 575 Riverside Road, Roswell, On May 7, 2016 the City of Roswell will kick off the 2016 season of Riverside Sounds, an annual series of six free outdoor concerts held at Riverside

Park on the first Saturday of the month from May through October from 7-9 p.m.

There will be food trucks at each concert from 6-9 p.m. and guests are also invited to bring their own picnic. The following are the featured artists for each month:

Alive after 5 Every third Thursday April – Oct. from 5-9 p.m.

This event is known as the best street party in the metro Atlanta area. Live music, food, displays and shopping make this event a fun and family friendly event. Trolley shuttles from the parking lot of City Hall to Canton Street, free of charge. Shops and restaurants offer discounts and specials and live music plays throughout the district. For more information, visit http://www. aliveafterfiveroswell.com.

Youth Day Parade and Festival www.roswellgov.com Begun in 1950, the 66th annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade honors the city’s youths with a parade down Canton Street, ending in a festival at Roswell Area Park. Local schools and civic groups make floats dedicated to a theme. Before the parade is the Historic 5K road race.

Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 75

Emergency + Community

Resource Table ORGANIZATION

PURPOSE

PHONE #

Website

United Way

To find help

211 or 404-614-1000

211online.unitedwayatlanta.org/

North Fulton Community Charities

Help in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton

770-640-0399

nfcchelp.org

Community Assistance Center

Help in Sandy Springs/Dunwoody

770-552-4015

ourcac.org

DFACS

Food Stamps/TANF/Medicaid

404-252-2180

dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov

FACAA/LIHEAP

Energy Assistance

404-320-0166

facaa.org

St. Vincent de Paul

Financial Assistance

770-458-9607

svdpatl.org

Housing Authority of Fulton Co.

Section 8 and Public Housing

404-730-5841

hafc.org

Homestretch/Housing Initiative

Transitional Housing

770-642-9185

homestretch.org

Roswell Public Housing

Public Housing

770-993-6226

roswellhousing.org

The Drake House

Emergency housing women with children

770-587-4712

thedrakehouse.org

Metro Fair Housing

Housing Discrimination

404-524-0000

metrofairhousing.com

Salvation Army

General Assistance

404-352-3597

salvationarmy.org

Gateway Center

Emergency Shelter

404-215-6600

gatewayctr.org

Travelers Aid/Hope Atlanta

Homeless prevention, newcomers

404-817-7070

hopeatlanta.org/

EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Com)

Employment Discrimination

800-669-4000

eeoc.gov/field/atlanta

Department of Labor

Unemployment Office

866-873-5676

dol.state.ga.us

Pregnancy Counseling

678-893-5290

abeaconofhope.com

Housing & Homeless

Employment

Family & Childrens Services A Beacon of Hope Child Abuse and Neglect

To report abuse

404-699-4399

dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/ child-abuse-neglect

GA Council on Child Abuse

Info, resources

800-532-3208

preventchildabusega.org

Child Support Assistance

Child Support Enforcement

877-423-4746

dcss.dhs.georgia.gov/

Families First

Counseling

404-853-2844

familiesfirst.org

Fulton County Schools

General Information

404-678-3600

fultonschools.org

Fulton Co. School Social Workers

Information

404-763-6774

fultonschools.org

G.E.D.

Enrollment Opportunities at NFCC

678-387-4458

nfcchelp.org/education

Head Start

3-4 Year Olds

678-585-9100

georgiaheadstart.org

Child Dev. Center North Fulton

Child Care

770-992-4006

cdakids.org

Family Haven (NF & Forsyth)

24 Hour Hotline-Domestic Violence

770-887-1121

forsythcountyfamilyhaven.info

PADV (Partnership Against Domestic Violence)

24 Hour Hotline-Domestic Violence

404-873-1766

padv.org/

Jewish Family and Career Services

Family and Career Counseling

770-677-9300

yourtoolsforliving.org

Senior Services North Fulton

Meals on Wheels, Transportation

770-993-1906

ssnorthfulton.org

76 | Relocation Answer Book 2016

ORGANIZATION

PURPOSE

PHONE #

Website

Credit Counseling/ Legal/ Police CredAbility

Consumer Credit Counseling

404-527-7630

credability.org

NID Housing Counseling Agency

Foreclosure Information/ assistance

404-612-0405

atlhca.com

HOPE

Foreclosure assistance

888-995-4673

995hope.org

Atlanta Legal Aid

Legal Assistance

404-524-5811

atlantalegalaid.org

Anonymous Police Tip Hotline

Roswell – Crime/Drugs

770-641-3959

roswellgov.com

City of Alpharetta

Alpharetta – Crime/Drugs

678-297-6307

alpharetta.ga.us

City of Johns Creek

Johns Creek – Crime/Drugs

678-474-1610

johnscreekga.gov/services/ police.aspx

City of Milton

Milton Police Department General

678-242-2570

cityofmiltonga.us

Rape Hotline

24 Hour Hotline

770-887-1121

fultoncountyga.gov/contact-ussolicitor

Grady Rape Crisis Center

Crisis line

404-616-4861

gnesa.org/content/grady-rapecrisis-center

Fulton County Records

Birth/Death Records

404-613-1260

fultoncountyga.gov/dhw-vitalrecords

Social Security

Social Security, Disability, SSI

800-772-1213

ssa.gov

Tags/Titles

Fulton County Office

404-730-6100

motor.etax.dor.ga.gov

Veterans Administration

VA Health, Housing, Benefits

800-827-1000

va.gov

Fulton County Housing & Human Services

Info on County programs

404-613-7944

fultoncountyga.gov/divisionsand-programs

MARTA

bus, rail schedules, fares

404-848-4711

itsmarta.com

Georgia Crisis & Access Line

24 hour -mental health, addiction & crisis service

800-715-4225

bhlweb.com/tabform/ fultoncountyga.gov

Government

Health

North Fulton Regional Health Center

Public Health (in Alpharetta)

404-332-1958

North Fulton Service Center

Common Ground (co-located svcs)

404-612-3917 or 404-6126372

North Fulton Health Center Grady

Primary Care clinic in NF (Sandy Springs)

404-616-1550

gradyhealthsystem.org/

Northside Behavioral Health

Mental Health

404-851-8960

northside.com/medical_ services

Children’s at NorthPoint (Mansell Rd)

pediatric primary care

770-643-1792

choa.org/About-Childrens/ Locations-and-Directions

Good Samaritan Atlanta

primary care clinic downtown

404-523-6571

goodsamatlanta.org/

Georgia Highlands

primary care clinic serving North GA

678-887-1668

georgia highlandsmedical.org

North Fulton Hospital

Hospital - Roswell

770-751-2500

nfultonhospital.com

Grady Memorial Hospital

Hospital

404-616-1000

gradyhealth.org/

Scottish Rite (Childrens Hospital)

Pediatric Hospital

404-785-5252

choa.org/

Emory Johns Creek

Hospital - Johns Creek

678-474-7000

emoryjohnscreek.com/

Northside Hospital

Hospital - Sandy Springs or Forsyth

404-851-8000

northside.com/

St. Joseph Hospital of Atlanta

Hospital - Sandy Springs

404-581-7001

stjosephsatlanta.org

Gwinnett Medical Center Duluth

Hospital

678-312-6800

gwinnettmedical center.org Relocation Answer Book 2016 | 77

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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770-664-0220

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BasementsGeoriga.com BCChomeImprovements.com

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A DOCTOR, a DOULA and a MIDWIFE walk into a hospital...

team at WellStar North Fulton Maternity Services works together seamlessly to provideto theprovide planning It’s no nojoke joke——the the team at WellStar North Fulton Maternity Services works together seamlessly

the and support you need for your personalized and delivery. can choose fromincluding a and planning support you need for your personalized labor and delivery. labor You can choose fromYou a variety of deliveries variety deliveries including natural water birth—and withthe pain medication andinwe haveSo, thedid natural of birth, water birth and birth with birth, pain medication andbirth we have lowest c-section—rate Atlanta. lowest rate in Atlanta.

So, did one about the family who had their baby at WellStar you hearc-section the one about the family who hadyou theirhear babythe at WellStar North Fulton Hospital?

They lived happily ever after.

North Fulton Hospital? They lived happily ever after.

Learn more at NFultonMaternity.com 770-751-2660 80 | Relocation Answer Book 2016