Sandy Springs Crier - July 6, 2023

Georgia’s bald eagles rebound from avian influenza outbreak

► PAGE 8

King and Queen buildings glow for

Muscular Dystrophy Day

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The iconic King and Queen towers at the Concourse in Sandy Springs were illuminated orange June 20 in honor of the 8th annual World FSH Muscular Dystrophy Day.

Officials said the Atlanta Chapter of the FSHD Society, the world’s largest research-focused patient organization for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, organized the lighting.

Cities receive federal aid for road safety initiatives

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

METRO ATLANTA, Ga. — Cities across Metro Atlanta are working toward safer streets and roads with help from a $5 billion federal initiative aimed at zero roadway deaths.

In 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established the Safe Streets and Roads

for All discretionary program which will appropriate $5 billion in funds to different cities over a five-year span. The program has two grant categories: planning and demonstration grants, which fund the development of a safety action plan, and implementation grants which fund safety projects identified in the action plans.

On June 21, Roswell announced the city received a $200,000 federal Safe

Streets and Roads for All Grant to create a comprehensive street safety plan. Under the planning and demonstration grant, Roswell Department of Transportation staff will conduct a nine-month study and create a “safety action plan” which will allow the city to apply for additional federal funds to complete certain projects.

See ROAD, Page 15

“The buildings are a prime focal point for the North Atlanta Perimeter, Sandy Springs, and Dunwoody areas,” said Christiane Wyckoff, whose daughter, Carden, has FSHD. “We’re so grateful to the people at King and Queen building management for recognizing the need and helping promote awareness in a positive way for FSHD.”

On World FSHD Day, advocacy groups ask community members to raise awareness and support for people suffering from the debilitating, genetic muscle-weakening condition, which affects nearly a million people worldwide.

In addition to the building lighting, supporters are asked each year to post photos on social media

See GLOW, Page 7

FILE PHOTO

Local governments are eligible to tap into $5 billion in federal transportation funds through legislation passed in 2022. The City of Roswell recently received a $200,000 federal Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant to create a comprehensive street safety plan.

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Each week Appen Media requests police incident reports to inform residents about the safety of their community. Sandy Springs continues to withhold what it calls the "narrative reports." It is the only city Appen Media covers that follows this practice, which goes against guidance from the Attorney General, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Sheriff's Association, Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia and Georgia Press Association. Appen Media will continue pursuing the release of more detailed documents that belong to the public in order to inform residents how safe – or unsafe – their city is.

Here are a few public safety items gleaned from reports that include limited details:

• On June 15, a Sandy Springs officer responded to an assault call on Old Dominion Drive. In the report, the officer said the call “resulted in an arrest warrant being placed” on a woman for simple battery. A 31-year-old Acworth woman is listed as a suspect in the incident. The case was cleared by arrest on June 19.

• On June 18, a Sandy Springs officer responded to a domestic dispute on Cedar Run at the Azalea Park Apartments. The incident report is filed under weapon law violations, and a single handgun is listed as evidence. The case was cleared by arrest the same day. There are two suspects listed, an Atlanta man and a Sandy Springs woman. No other information is available.

• A Sandy Springs officer responded to an armed person call at the Publix on Roswell Road on June 19 after somebody threatened customers and employees at the store. The incident report, which lists terroristic threats, criminal trespass and obstruction offenses, states nine assisting officers were on the scene. There is one suspect listed, a 30-year-old Sandy Springs man. The report does not state who was arrested, but the case was cleared by arrest on the same day.

After months of efforts to provide readers accurate information about crime in Sandy Springs, the Police Department continues supplying The Crier with abbreviated accounts of police activities. These reports, usually one sentence, contain no pertinent information about crime, arrests, investigations or threats

to neighborhoods.

Above, a Sandy Springs police report states that an interaction with an officer ended in an arrest.

The Crier continues to pursue avenues to make full police incident reports information available to the public and to the taxpayers who fund the city’s activities.

Antisemitic demonstrations spur calls for state legislation

By ROSS WILLIAMS GEORGIA RECORDER

ATLANTA — About a dozen people gathered outside a Cobb County synagogue June 24 bearing Nazi flags, sparking widespread condemnation from both sides of the political aisle in Georgia and renewing talk of state action to address antisemitism.

“There is absolutely no place for this hate and antisemitism in our state,” said Republican Gov. Brian Kemp in a tweet. “I share in the outrage over this shameful act and stand with Georgians everywhere in condemning it.”

Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, Georgia’s first Jewish senator, said in a statement that Georgians are “united in our rejection of bigotry and hate.”

“Georgia’s Jewish community will never be intimidated by antisemitism,” Ossoff said. “Today, as symbols of genocide were paraded in front of synagogues, we continue to stand strong, proud and unbowed.”

Sandy Springs Democratic Rep. Esther Panitch, the only current Jewish member of the state Legislature, said she was thankful to see Georgians coming together to oppose anti-Jewish

hate.

“Thank God for community members of all faiths coming together to shine a light to disperse the hate,” she wrote in a tweet. “Together Georgians will win over this darkness. Please do not engage with these unhinged maniacs as they are obviously unwell.”

Panitch was a co-sponsor on a bipartisan bill aimed at adopting a definition of antisemitism in state code, which would not outlaw Nazi rallies, but enable stricter penalties for those who commit crimes inspired by antisemitism.

The bill failed due to concerns over language regarding the state of Israel, but it could be revived during the state’s next legislative session early next year. Under the bill’s definition of antisemitism, which matches the one adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, certain criticisms of Israel could be used as evidence for discriminatory intent. That would be a bridge too far for some free speech advocates, who say policing political speech around a touchy topic would violate the First Amendment.

“This abhorrent display further emphasizes why Georgia needs an antisemitism definition to address

situations when such awful behavior is combined with violence or discrimination,” the bill’s lead sponsor, Marietta Republican Rep. John Carson said in a statement.

Mark Goldfelder, attorney for Hillels of Georgia and a supporter of Carson’s bill, pushed back against the free speech argument, saying the penalties would only take effect if there were an underlying crime.

“HB 30 would not affect an antisemite’s ability to spread their hateful message, because HB30 is not about banning or limiting speech,” he said. “It is only about helping to stop unlawful discriminatory conduct. But incidents like what happened this weekend do absolutely make it clear why this bill is obviously necessary –because there are clearly hateful bigots out there who are not shy about their intentions, some of whom are convicted felons with a history of race-based crimes.”

Another Nazi rally was held two days earlier in Macon, where news reports say Jon Minadeo II of West Palm Beach, Florida, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and public disturbance and later released on bond.

Minadeo is the leader of a group of antisemitic provocateurs known as the Goyim Defense League, whose past antics include distributing antisemitic fliers around Georgia and projecting antisemitic messages on TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville during a football contest between the University of Georgia and the University of Florida.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, members of the Goyim Defense League have been arrested in multiple states and charged with serious crimes including battery, assault and making criminal threats.

“HB 30 lets them speak, but it holds them accountable if they should then act on their antisemitic motivations,” Goldfelder said. “That is important because study after study has shown that the kind of inflammatory discriminatory rhetoric that this group and others like them are known for quickly leads to violence against innocent people. We should not wait for that to happen to put them on notice that Georgia cares.”

This story comes to Appen Media through a partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom covering statewide issues.

Tara Tucker

Paras

Leader

Three board members re-elected to positions on North Fulton CID

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Electors of the North Fulton Community Improvement District, a self-taxing district that uses additional property taxes to identify, accelerate, and finance infrastructure projects and programs, voted to re-elect three board members during its annual Caucus of Electors June 6.

The re-elected board members include Tim Perry, managing partner for North American Properties Atlanta; Tina Renee McCall, CCIM and managing director at Bridge Investment Group; and Nick Nicolosi, general manager of North Point Mall at Trademark Property Company.

They will serve four-year terms and join the seven other board members working with property owners and partner organizations to enhance the prosperity of Alpharetta, Milton and Roswell on roadway and intersection improvements, trail enhancements, bus shelter programs, placemaking, beautification and more.

Act3 Productions posts 2023-24 season lineup

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Act3 Productions in Sandy Springs recently announced the lineup of shows and performances for the 2023-24 season.

Officials said the season will open Sept. 8 with the musical comedy “Xanadu.” It will also feature a comedy from Atlanta playwright Topher Payne, a musical comedy revue, and a comedic farce.

Shows included in the 2023-24 season will include the following performances:

• “Xanadu” directed by Charlie Miller –Sept. 8 to 24

• “Perfect Arrangement” directed by Amy Cain – Oct. 13 to 29

• “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” directed by Cathe Hall Payne –Feb. 9 to 25

• “Lend Me a Tenor” directed by Jared Wright – March 15 to 31

Season ticket packages are available for the 2023-24 season and can be purchased for between $68 and $108.

For more information about Act3 Productions and upcoming shows, visit www.act3prod.org or call the box office at 770-241-1905.

— Alexander Popp

Charity transforms lives with language lessons

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — When Roswell resident Diana Traslavina moved to the area from Colombia a year ago, she quickly learned that English was a necessity.

The native Spanish speaker came from Bogotá with her son to the United States in hopes of the “best life.” She came to Georgia to be with her sister, who speaks no English.

“Quickly, we clearly needed the language,” Traslavina said.

She said several people encouraged her to visit North Fulton Community Charities in Roswell to take the organization’s English as a second language course. The charity services around 10,000 people in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park and Roswell.

This year, the nonprofit celebrates 40 years of service through emergency assistance for housing, medical care and transportation, as well as a food pantry and thrift shop. It also runs education programs—namely, the English as a second language program.

The 15-week course is offered three times a year, with classes twice a week. Students take a placement test and are placed by level, advancing to “proficient” in level five. The free classes require no personal identification, which helps keep the program accessible.

Traslavina said she started the program at a level three, although she joked she didn’t know any English going in. The program was intensive, but in three months she moved through to level five.

“I feel very, very proud of me to have known I can do that,” Traslavina said.

NFCC Executive Director Sandy Holiday said people who come to the United States without the English language creates unique barriers.

“They are the most challenged in our communities, because they don’t know how to advocate for themselves,” Holiday said.

The English learning program is full immersion, so the teacher only speaks in English. Students come from various countries, including India, Ukraine, Cameroon and Colombia. The students are placed in rotating groups to communicate with each other.

Without a shared language to rely on, the students speak to each other exclusively in English. Program manager Wynona Kuehl said the format creates close bonds between the new North Fulton County residents.

“That really builds community,” Kuehl said. “By the last week, they all feel connected.”

The 15-week course serves about 200 students a session. Holiday said many students drop out of level three of the program because they have learned enough to “empower” themselves.

“They’re here to say teach me the language to communicate and take care of myself in my daily life, and that’s pretty awesome,” Holiday said.

Language is not the only barrier faced by many clients, though. Holiday said a lot of people use multiple services from the nonprofit.

“It’s called a continuum because no matter where you enter that spectrum, you continue on it towards other services,” Holiday said.

Part of the continuum came into play when the nonprofit started looking for a new client services specialist in March. Holiday wanted to recruit internally, from one of their thousands of clients.

“We should be employing our clients, we should walk the walk,” Holiday said.

As program manager for the English language classes, Kuehl recommended Traslavina, who had recently completed the language program for the company role.

After two interviews, Traslavina was hired at the nonprofit’s front desk. She said the position requires some administrative and computer work, but a lot of her job calls for interacting with people who come into the building.

“We need to learn what problems they have or how we can help,”

Traslavina said.

People often come to the front desk in need of emergency services, and Traslavina is the one who helps them get started. She said the conversations have also been good practice for her English skills. In her months at the role, Traslavina said the job has “opened the doors” to her new life.

“The best thing here is I can help other people,” Traslavina said.

Holiday said there’s an added benefit to having a former client be the first face people see at North Fulton Community Charities.

“She’s looking at our work as a client,” Holiday said.

The executive director explained she often reaches out to former clients for advice and questions regarding everything from organizational decisions to newsletters. The nonprofit also has a former client on the board of directors, which Holiday plans to continue long term.

Traslavina said she’s grateful for the opportunities she’s received, and she now feels better in this country.

In light of the nonprofit’s 40th anniversary, Holiday wants to flip that gratitude back to the community. Rather than celebrate the organization’s success she wants to spotlight those who helped it last across the decades.

“They’re grateful to us, but we see it a little bit differently,” Holiday said. “We are so grateful that the community didn’t just launch us but grew us and has helped us be successful.”

DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

Roswell resident Diana Traslavina works the front desk at North Fulton Community Charities on Elkins Road in Roswell, one year after moving to the United States from her home in Colombia. Traslavina is a former student of the nonprofit’s English as a second language program.

PICS IN THE PARK: ‘WONDER WOMAN’

What: Enjoy this free summer movie series event, showing “Wonder Woman.” There will be free popcorn and candy, and other giveaways. Top Job Beverages will also be on-site with additional concessions. A popcorn cart will be open from 8:30-10:30 p.m. The movie begins at 8:55 p.m.

When: Thursday, July 6, 9 p.m.

Where: Pernoshal Park, 4575 North Shallowford Road, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.gov

ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET

What: Every Saturday morning until November, vendors set up shop in front of Alpharetta City Hall with locally grown produce, natural meat, fresh flowers and plants, hand-crafted gifts, jellies, sauces, soaps, desserts and baked goods, local raw honey, food vendors and other Southern food producers.

When: Saturday, July 8, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Where: Town Green area, North and South Broad streets, Alpharetta

More info: alpharettafarmersmarket.com

TECH TALES: STORYTIME FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

What: Tech Tales is the Computer Museum of America’s weekly summer story reading series geared for children 12 and under. This week, the event will feature “Rosie Revere, Engineer” by Andrea Beaty, an inspiring story about a young inventor who encounters failures and judgment from others but learns to embrace her mistakes, never giving up on her passion for engineering.

When: Saturday, July 8, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Computer Museum of America, 5000 Commerce Parkway, Roswell

Cost: $15 for adults; $10 for ages 4-17; free for members

More info: computermuseumofamerica. org

GROOVIN’ ON THE GREEN

What: For a Parks & Rec Month Celebration, this free series event will feature Corporate Therapy, a classic rock tribute band, and a student showcase. Guests are encouraged to walk or ride bikes to the concerts. Bring your own picnics or pick up dinner from a featured food truck.

MOVIES AT THE PARK: ‘DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS’

What: As part of Movies at the Park, a free summer outdoor series of family-friendly movies, “DC League of Super-Pets” will be shown. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children’s activities, giveaways and music.

When: Friday, July 14, 7 p.m.

Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek

More info: johnscreekga.gov

When: Saturday, July 8, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.gov

PERFORMER SPOTLIGHT: A STORY & SONG WITH MOUNTAIN SAM WHEELOCK

What: Sam Wheelock’s one-man show “A Story and a Song ‘’ offers a revealing look at the music of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This soundscape plants one foot in the Great Smoky Mountains while the other wraps around the world connecting the past to the present.

When: Sunday, July 9, 4-6 p.m.

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

Cost: $20

More info: roswellcac.showare.com

MOVIES AT THE PARK: ‘DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS’

What: As part of Movies at the Park, a free summer outdoor series of familyfriendly movies, “DC League of SuperPets” will be shown. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children’s activities, giveaways and music.

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

When: Friday, July 14, 7 p.m.

Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek

More info: johnscreekga.gov

PHISH SUMMER TOUR 2023

What: Phish is an American rock band formed in Burlington, Vermont, in 1983. The band is known for musical improvisation, extended jams, blending of genres and a dedicated fan base.

When: Friday, July 14-16, 7:30

Where: Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta

Cost: Tickets from $185.75

More info: livenation.com

DAVID KOZ & FRIENDS SUMMER HORNS 2023

What: Chart-topping saxophonist

Dave Koz and friends Candy Dulfer and Eric Darius will headline a summer show, featuring songs from each artist’s catalog, plus material from two previous Koz “Summer Horns” albums. Both albums debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Current Contemporary Jazz Albums charts. Koz has racked up an array of honors and achievements, including multiple Grammy nominations, No. 1 albums

follow these easy steps:

on Billboard’s Jazz charts, world tours, performances for U.S. presidents and more.

When: Friday, July 14, 8 p.m.

Where: Byer Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets from $80.25

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

INTERACTIVE MOVIE ON THE GREEN: ‘ELF’

What: Join this event for an interactive “Elf” movie experience. Interactive kits will be provided. Bring a chair and snacks.

When: Saturday, July 15, 7-9 p.m.

Where: The Green at Crabapple Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton More info: crabapplemarketga.com

CONCERT BY THE SPRINGS: CHUCK MARTIN AND THE LINEUP

What: Chuck Martin and The Lineup is a high-energy country and rock band that plays all the hits from the ’90s to today.

When: Sunday, July 16, 7 p.m.

Where: Heritage Amphitheater, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets from $135

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

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“using an orange slice in place of their smile” to draw attention to a symptom experienced by many people suffering from FSHD — loss of the ability to smile.

“It’s a slow disease that gradually robs people of muscle in their face,

shoulders and upper body,” Atlanta FSHD Chapter Founder Jack Gerblick said. “It takes things away like being able to get dishes down from the top shelf, wash your hair, the ability to smile and other activities most people take for granted.”

For more information about the Atlanta Chapter of the FSHD Society visit www.fshdsociety.org/connect/ local-chapters/atlanta-chapter.

PHOTOS BY ALPHARETTA KNOCKERBALL/PROVIDED

Kids show off the latest in Knockerball playwear. The bulbous shrouds can be worn to play soccer or any number of games.

Knockerball: New trend rolls out in Alpharetta

By LUKE GARDNER newsroom@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Over the past few years, countless viral videos have shown people playing soccer and bouncing around wearing giant, inflatable bubbles. Those bubbles are called Knockerballs, and they are rapidly gaining popularity as one of the newest sports trends.

Alpharetta Knockerball opened for business in April and draws participants from throughout north Metro Atlanta.

“I think it’s popular because it's new and exciting,” said General Manager Sara Downum. “It’s totally outside of the box and fun for all ages, from elementary to adult. It’s hard to find something that has that kind of niche.”

Customers book Knockerball Alpharetta services online and the business brings the equipment to an event location, helps with the setup and stays throughout to referee and supervise games. Event organizers have the option to order a variety of games and inflatables.

The most common is the regular Knockerball, an inflatable sphere with a hole in the middle that comes in four sizes, from small to extra-large. It has two handles and straps on the player like a backpack. Knocker soccer is most popular, a game in which all players except goalies are in Knockerballs bouncing into each other.

As few as two can play Knocker soccer, but typically at least six participate, with an even number on each team. Knocker soccer is usually played on a large grassy area — never on concrete — with regular soccer goals. The sport can move indoors with action taking place inside an inflatable arena. The Knockerball arena looks similar to an inflatable wrestling ring, with built-in goals and barriers to keep players from falling out.

People commonly make up their own games using

Georgia’s bald eagles rebound from avian influenza outbreak

By ROSS WILLIAMS GEORGIA RECORDER

ATLANTA — Georgia’s bald eagles are welcoming a healthy batch of squawking little eaglets into the world, encouraging news for wildlife lovers after an outbreak of avian influenza hammered the iconic birds along the state’s coast last spring.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources survey leader Bob Sargent said he breathed a sigh of relief when it became clear that the eagles’ nesting rates were back to within the normal range.

“Last year’s exceptionally poor nesting results on the coast, as well as the lower than usual success rate in Southwest Georgia, was worrisome because those areas combine for about 85% of our known eagle nests,” he said.

the Knockerball and incorporate it into classic games like King of the Ring and musical chairs.

“You don’t stop laughing from the time you get in the ball until the time you get out,” Downum said. “If it was up to my son, I would drag out the equipment every day. We play as often as we can. We love King of the Ring, and Knocker soccer is my favorite. It doesn't seem challenging but it really is. It’s great for family bonding and team building.”

The Knockerball is not to be confused with its inflatable companion, the Zorb ball. While the Knockerball is essentially a bubble backpack, the Zorb ball is essentially a giant hamster ball that you step inside of.

Besides the Zorb ball, Alpharetta Knockerball also has a giant inflatable dart board that is played by kicking soccer balls at it, which stick to the board like a dart. On the other side of the board are three targets that soccer balls can be kicked into.

Unlike the Knockerball and Zorb ball, the dart board requires less explanation and supervision, meaning no referee is needed for events that just order the dart board.

The most common events Alpharetta Knockerball hosts are corporate team-building events, church events and kids' parties, but they’ve also hosted Knockerball games at graduation parties, food festivals and this year’s Cumming Spring Fling.

That Spring Fling was one of Alpharetta Knockerball’s first events, and it solidified Downum’s love for the new business.

“Rather it was a couple on date night, or dads climbing into Knockerballs [to play with their] kids, everyone was having their own experience,” Downum said. “I realized that this is really something, that it really is fun for all ages… We wanted to have fun with the community and make memories, and this is exactly why we are doing this.”

For more information or to schedule an event, visit alpharettaknockerball.com.

“The comeback of the bald eagle in Georgia is a great conservation success story, but the species is listed as threatened in the state, and if high nest failures continued they could chip away at population gains,” he added. “I’m pleased to see the nest success rates rebound this year.”

The number of successful nests on the coast dropped about 30 percent last year, and fewer than half of the nests surveyed produced even one eagle. Bald eagles typically lay up to three eggs each year, according to the American Eagle Foundation.

Newly hatched eaglets are completely reliant on their parents, but they grow quickly, usually taking their first flight at 10 to 14 weeks old.

This year’s survey found 232 newly fledged eagles across the state, averaging 1.6 young per nest, slightly more than the state’s long-term average.

Nests along the coast this year produced an average at 1.5 young per nest, amounting to 89 eaglets fledged from 59 nests, compared with 50 eaglets fledged from only 34 successful nests last year.

In Southwest Georgia, the birds went from producing an average of 1.5 fledglings from 62 nests to an average 1.6 from 69 nests.

Sargent said no influenza cases have been reported in bald eagles in Georgia for more than a year, and there have been no cases in other species for about four months.

The DNR calls the recovery of the bald eagle in Georgia an environmental success story. According to the department, the state went from no known successful nests during most of the 1970s to one in 1981, 48 by the turn of the century and more than 200 today.

The department cites a U.S. ban on the pesticide DDT in 1972, the enactment of the federal Clean Water and Clean Air acts, protection through the Endangered Species Act, increased public awareness, restoration of local populations through release programs and forest regrowth as factors in that recovery.

This story comes to Appen Media through a partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom covering statewide issues.

How much do local retirement communities cost?

Brought to you by – Dan Griffin, Compass Realty

When choosing a retirement living option, there are many factors that will influence where you decide to live. These include proximity to family, access to healthcare, and amenities available. Affordability may also be a significant factor in your decision. Because there is such a range of options available in Atlanta, the costs associated with each can vary widely.

For example, in age-restricted communities, there are usually different types of homes available. Talk to a real estate agent to find out the average home prices in 55+ neighborhoods in Atlanta. If you choose to move into one of these communities, you’ll also need to factor in the HOA fees, which usually cover amenities like a pool, golf course, gym, and other communal areas.

In Atlanta, the average monthly cost for independent living communities is around

$3500. These fees may include meals, planned recreational activities, and property maintenance. If you’re moving in with your spouse, there may be an additional fee for a second person. If you’re interested in this option, make sure you understand any upfront costs and what’s included in the monthly fees.

Skilled nursing facilities are the most expensive option because they provide round-the-clock care. In the Atlanta area, monthly costs start around $7500 and may include meals, social activities, and health management.

When considering the cost of each option, make sure you find out what is and isn’t included. For example, will you need to pay extra for parking, cable tv, internet, or transportation? You should also ask whether monthly fees are fixed or whether they increase every year. Take the time to visit several communities and ask as many questions as you can before making your final decision.

GRIFFIN

Why is my plant dying? Improving drainage in gardens and lawns

“Why is my plant dying?” is a question we often get in the Fulton County Extension office. The next phrase we typically hear is, “But I water it every day and it’s turning yellow!”

While intentions may be good, overwatering can be as bad as not watering enough. Much of the time, a dying plant is suffering from root rot, caused by the soil-borne microorganisms Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia. These microorganisms thrive in environments with excess soil water, either from overwatering or poor drainage. If your plant is wilting and yellowing, it may be that the roots cannot absorb the nutrients and water it needs.

Here are the results from a recent diagnostic sample taken from a boxwood at the University of Georgia plant pathology lab:

“The root and crown rot pathogen, Phytophthora sp., was identified from the roots of the submitted boxwood sample. Remove dead plants. Root disease development within landscapes is associated with wet soils, overwatering, over-fertilization, planting plants too deeply and planting in poorly draining soils.

“Correct site conditions to improve water drainage through the soil. Fungicide drenches are often of little benefit after infection occurs and plants are symptomatic. Fungicides also will not penetrate heavy soils to protect plant roots. When replanting, plant new plants at the correct height and a fungicide drench can help protect the new roots during establishment. . . Also, avoid overwatering and poorly draining soils to reduce Phytophthora infection.”

In other words: A plant with wet feet can develop root rot, which kills the plant.

Recommendations

• Prep soil with plenty of organic matter, like compost and mulch, to get good tilth and drainage. Clay soil holds water and doesn’t drain well.

• Apply mulch and compost periodically to amend the soil.

• Provide correct irrigation for the type of plant.

• Check to see if excess water is coming from gutters, driveways or other sources. Install rain gardens, dry creek beds, terraces, French drains, and other landscape features to help water infiltrate correctly.

• Check the soil periodically to see

Learn more

• UGA Cooperative Extension Bulletins “Native Plants for Georgia Part I: Trees, Shrubs and Woody Vines,” Native Plants for Georgia Part II: Ferns and Native Plants for Georgia Part III: Wildflowers and Native Plants for Georgia Part IV: Grasses and Sedges.

• Georgia Green Landscape Stewards Program - https://site.extension.uga. edu/georgiagreen/

• North Fulton Master Gardeners - http://nfmg.net/communityclasses.htm

how well it is draining and whether plants are getting enough or too much moisture. The ground may appear dry, but the soil beneath may be wet.

• Buy a rain gauge. Typically, one inch of water per week, including rainfall, is enough for most established landscape plants. It’s better to water deeply to a depth of 6 inches and less frequently.

Always remember the Golden Plant Rule: Right plant, right place. Some plants want sun, some want shade. Plants may also have different water and soil requirements. Make sure to put

About the author

PROVIDED

This week’s guest Master Gardener “Garden Buzz” columnist is Pam Rentz. Pam has been a North Fulton Master Gardener since 2010. Along with a background in marketing communications for tech companies, she has a longtime passion for plants and our planet.

plants where they can receive the conditions they thrive in.

Resources

Your local Fulton County Extension office does soil testing and plant disease diagnostics. Follow instructions for taking soil and plant samples and bring them to your local Fulton County Extension office.

Pricing

• Routine soil test – pH, lime, P, K, Ca, Mg, Z, Ma ($12 per sample)

• Expanded soil test – S1 + Na, Fe, Cu, Cr, Mo, Ni, Cd, Pb, CEC, % base saturation ($14 per sample).

• Homeowner plant disease sample ($10 per sample)

• Remember that native Georgia plants tend to perform better in our climate and require less maintenance.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.

Azaleas

A mysterious house comes back to life in Alpharetta

in theaters in 2003. The thriller starred Lee Majors.

MEYERS

The house on Canton Street in Alpharetta sat empty and appeared mysterious to many people who passed it every day. Dark and foreboding especially at dusk, the historic Upshaw House, built in 1925, was once the home of Teasley Upshaw (1895-1974), the mayor of Alpharetta for many years. His wife Ruth Summerour Upshaw (1893-1966) taught sixth grade at Milton School, later called Milton High School. They had no children. The last occupant passed away in 2013, and the house remained largely vacant until 2021.

Mayor Upshaw was re-elected several times in the 1940s and 1950s and was considered to be a good, fiscally responsible mayor. Local children were not always so fond of him according to Elsie Knight who grew up on Canton Street and recalls “a sign the mayor put up that girls could not wear shorts in town and boys had to wear shirts. On Halloween we would string firecrackers and make a chain around his house.”

Mr. Upshaw raised potatoes and was known as Tater Teas. He had three large storehouses in back of his house where he cured potatoes which he sold to individuals and stores. Some farmers would take their potatoes to Teasley who would keep them in his storehouses for a fee. He also had a business delivering coal, and he drove a pink Cadillac.

Shack Lewis lived next door to the Upshaws for 20 years beginning when Shack was 8 years old. He and his parents, Nat and Claudia, remember Teasley as a very proper gentleman and good neighbor. He helped Shack and his brother get down from a tree when they were stuck and was tolerant when Lewis’s dogs would dig in his yard. They recall that Teasley always wore a suit and tie. They attended the Methodist Church together. Nat recalls that neither he nor Teasley could carry a tune.

Women in small towns often tended gardens, but in the Upshaw household it was Teasley who had a green thumb. He planted a wide variety of trees including red oak, white oak, dogwood, walnut, pecan and ginkgo which are still thriving. He planted many flowers, some of which are still blooming.

The Upshaw house was built in the fall of 1925 by Eli Broadwell (18801943) a local builder and first cousin once removed of John B. Broadwell

(1855-1953), a leading pioneer farmer and businessman in the early days of Crabapple. A portable sawmill was set up in the front yard to cut lumber from the hardwood trees on the large property. The house was designed in the Craftsman style popular in the early 1900s to the 1920s, characterized by functional rather than elaborate designs.

The style had a covered front porch supported by tapered columns set on stone piers, fireplaces, and extensive use of woodwork throughout the house. When the house was being renovated in 2022, Eli Broadwell’s signature was found on a board under the exterior siding.

The house was used extensively as a set in the film “Fate” which appeared

Since they had no children, the Upshaws donated their house to the Alpharetta Methodist Church upon Teasley’s death in 1974. In 1977 the house was sold to Garland “Bulldog” Williams (1921-1989) and his wife Kathryn (1927-2013). Williams was a celebrated UGA football player who played tackle in the 1942 Orange Bowl, the 1943 Rose Bowl and the 1947 Sugar Bowl. UGA won all of them. After Kathryn’s death, their sons inherited the house but did not occupy it and it remained largely vacant for about nine years.

When Kristen Colby was house hunting in 2021, she wanted a small home on a large lot and her sister Jennifer Hughes, a Realtor, urged her to look at the Upshaw house.

“As soon as we opened the back door I gasped and knew that I had to have that house,” says Kristen.” It was love at first sight. You could see original heart pine floors with boards that run the length of the rooms, original six-panel doors, single-pane windows and majestic coal-burning fireplaces with iron fronts that you just don’t see any more.”

The house reminded her of her grandfather’s 1930s-era house in Cumming where her family lived for a while and where cousins, aunts and uncles gathered for special occasions.

Kristen engaged two outstanding professionals to help her restore and convert her new house into a home. Mark Buelow of Distinctive Remodeling Solutions has been responsible for the extensive renovation and additions including a pantry, powder room, two closets and a two-car garage. He found people able to do lath and plaster, repair old chimneys and professionals with other necessary skills “to keep everything old,” in Kristen’s words.

Lisa Gabrielson, owner of Lisa Gabrielson Interior Design applied her artistic vision to convert a centuryold house into a blend of authentic period design elements with modern touches. The result is a beautiful residence that will be a comfortable and inspiring home for Kristen and her two daughters.

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

FAMILY/PROVIDED

The historic Teasley and Ruth Upshaw house on Canton Street in Alpharetta was built in 1925 in the Craftsman style popular from about 1900 through the 1920s. One characteristic of the style was a large covered front porch supported by tapered columns set on stone piers. The house was painted in the dark colors commonly used with Craftsman homes. Teasley Upshaw was mayor of Alpharetta in the 1940s and 1950s. Ruth was a teacher. Teasley also raised potatoes and had a business delivering coal. He was an avid gardener.

BOB MEYERS

The historic Teasley and Ruth Upshaw home has been undergoing extensive renovation preserving original elements as much as possible, while bringing the century-old structure up to date. The exterior has been painted white.

Human Resources Manager

Handles all employee-related processes and procedures. This role will be responsible for Recruitment and Onboarding, Job Design, Employee Relations, Performance Management, Training and Development, Employment Compliance, Total Rewards and Talent Management. This position reports to the Director of Finance and Administration and will interact with the entire management team by providing guidance on all Human Resources related topics at NFCC. Bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field and 3-5 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in multiple HR disciplines required. Please visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/ to see the full job description. To apply, submit a resume to sholiday@nfcchelp.org and to mburton@nfcchelp.org.

Workforce Development Coordinator is responsible for developing programs and services for NFCC clients and students seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The workforce development coordinator collaborates with local employers to help match job seekers to open positions. They work directly with clients on the job application, resumes, and interview preparations and provide tips for successfully securing and improving employment to foster financial stability.  Bachelor’s degree in a human services, human resources, or other related field required and 2 years of professional experience in human services, human resources or career counseling preferred.

To view the entire listing visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/. To apply, please submit resume to Carol Swan at cswan@nfcchelp.org.

Professionals for GA based Engineering Services

Part-time

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

Director of Childrens Ministry

Seeking Director of Children’s Ministry for Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. Part-time position with benefits. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Also have classroom or work experience in education and/or children’s ministry. Work with children’s ministry leaders to provide meaningful and engaging Sunday School and additional programs for children. Collaborate with committee, recommend curriculum to Session for approval and provide the curriculum for children’s Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School.

Recruit, train and supervise all Children’s Ministry teachers and volunteers (this includes providing “child safety training” and assuring compliance with that policy).

Appen Newspapers is looking for one or two folks to help deliver our newspapers. Work is part time and flexible. Routes can be done at night or during the day - on your schedule - within our deadlines. Comfortably earn $550 or more a month on your own schedule.

This is a great way to get out as well as contribute to helping your local newspaper! Perfect for retired person who wants to stay active or a parent with school-aged kids - deliver during school hours. Also good way to earn supplemental income at night. We have had many retired couples deliver our papers and almost all have managed a route well and enjoyed the time and the work.

Requirements include reliable vehicle, clean driving record, availability, reliability, and honesty. Prior delivery experience is good, but not required. It helps if you live relatively close as papers are picked up to be bagged and delivered from our office in Alpharetta. Delivery areas can be Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, South Forsyth, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs typically - depending on open routes.

Community Events Manager

The Community Events Manager is responsible for all aspects of NFCC’s community events, from inception through execution, including helping secure sponsorships. Events may include annual golf tournament, annual fundraising gala, community engagement events, donor recognition events, and other community events. Position requires a highly organized, creative, and motivated person to lead event planning, sponsorship, and community engagement. Bachelor’s Degree preferred with 2-3 years special events and fundraising experience. To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/workat-nfcc/  To apply, send a resume to Sandy Holiday, sholiday@nfcchelp.org.

INCOME TAX PREPARER

Carmichael, Brasher, Tuvell & Company is hiring an Income Tax Preparer, Corporate and Individual. Great pay and flexible, relaxed work environment. Seeking full and/or part-time individual for individual and corporate tax preparation and accounting. Prior tax preparation required and have working knowledge of QuickBooks. Our office is located in the heart of Dunwoody and work from home is an option. To apply email your resume to ccarmichael@cbtcpa.com.

Firm : “Sr. Mechanical Engineers Responsible for Dsgn Control activities, provide input in dsgn verif activities & planning. Work on Mechanical Dsgn & dvlpmt. Ensure verif results meet intended dsgn specifications & demonstrate compliance to related standards. Tolerance, durability, fatigue, strength & frequency response analysis. Ensure successful dsgn transfer of new products to mfg. Travel and/or reloc to various unanticipated loc’ns throughout the US may be required.” Apply w/2 copies of resume to HR, ValidIT Solutions LLC, 8737 Dunwoody Pl Unit 4, Atlanta, GA 30350.

• A person of mature Christian faith who will work collegially with others in support of the overall mission of the church.

• A person of outstanding character and strong relational skills who is approachable, compassionate, energetic, honest, dependable, creative, joyful, fun, motivated and humble.

• A dynamic and grace-filled leader who is a role model for children and their families.

• Someone who is committed to setting an inspiring example, serving others, making disciples, and equipping the saints for ministry.

Qualified candidates please send resumes to alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

Garage Doors

Dunwoody Door Lift Co.

Please contact our Office Manager Heidi to set up an appointment to come in and fill in paper work or start the process via Email!

Call 770-442-3278 and ask for Heidi or Email Heidi@AppenMedia.com

BOOTH RENTALS AVAILABLE

Fun hair salon in Dunwoody, FREE 1st MONTH RENT 770-912-7151

Is Your Company Hiring?

Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

Donor Operations Associate

The Donor Operations Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and sorts merchandise in a designated area.  They are responsible for keeping the merchandise secure, all areas free of debris and the donor door area neat and clean.  This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected to provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor.  High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Ability to perform low to moderate facility maintenance tasks.  To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/work-atnfcc/  To apply, please complete an application for employment and email to Marten Jallad,  mjallad@nfcchelp.org.

Roads:

Continued from Page 1

“The first step is to look at where safety improvements can be made throughout the city,” Roswell Transportation Director Jeff Littlefield said. “Once that is done, we can go after federal funding for other projects.”

In Roswell, the plan will include traffic calming measures, sidewalk improvements and amenities for bicyclists and pedestrians. The city’s grant department is also looking for other grants that are only available to cities with the Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant.

The North Fulton Community Improvement District has partnered with the city to provide a local match of $50,000 at no cost to the city.

Other cities have set funds aside to study and create road safety action plans, which will make them eligible to apply for

Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation grants that will fund safety improvements from the plan.

In April, the Dunwoody City Council approved a $166,864 contract to develop a road safety action plan for the city designed to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers. The plan analyzes crash data and gathers public input to create new safety strategies for streets in the city.

The contract is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, as part of $1.2 million in funding the council set aside for street safety improvements over the next three years.

The rest of the street safety funds will finance additional safe street construction projects and the city’s new Safe Streets Program Manager Jonathan Digioia, who will work to enact the Road Safety Action Plan.

The Alpharetta City Council also set aside money to implement a local road safety action plan. The council approved

a $199,778 contract with Alta Planning and Design in February. The plan is set for completion this summer.

Once the plan is implemented, the city will be eligible for the Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation grant program.

Other Metro Atlanta cities didn’t receive funds from the federal initiative, like Johns Creek and Milton.

The Milton Public Works Department said the city applied for but did not receive Safe Streets and Roads for All funding in 2022. Milton requested a construction grant, which only one government in Georgia received.

Communications Director Greg Botelho said Milton plans to receive grant funds in 2023, though. The Milton City Council approved the city’s 2023 grant request application for supplementary planning and demonstration projects at a June 19 meeting.

“We have since reformulated our grant

request for the coming year and hope for a different result,” Botelho said.

A spokesperson from Sandy Springs did not state whether or not the city applied for and received a grant in 2023 but pointed toward the $360,000 the city received in 2022 from Safe Streets and Roads for All to develop a road safety action plan.